A Brief Chronicle, of the Success of Times, from the Creation of the World, to this instant. CONTAINING, The Original & lives of our ancient Forefathers, before and after the Flood, As also, of all the Monarches, Emperors, Kings, Popes, Kingdoms, Commonweals, Estates and Governments, in most Nations of this World: And how in alteration, or succession, they have continued to this day. Printed by W. jaggard, Printer to the Honourable City of London, and are to be sold at his house in Barbican. 1611. TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE, SIR WILLIAM CRAVON, Knight, Lord Mayor of the City of London; Sir HENRY MONTAGVE, Sergeant at Law to his Majesty, and Recorder of London: And to all the Knights, aldermans, and Worshipful brethren, the careful Fathers and Governors of this Honourable Estate. Having collected these brief notes (Right Honourable, Right Worshipful, and my most respected) concerning the Success of Times (in most of the Kingdoms thorough the World) even from the Creation, to this instant year 1611. and modeled them all in this slender Volume, that such as favour Reverend Antiquity, might receive both pleasure & profit thereby: I thought it part of my duty (in regard of some favour and respect lately by me received) to present your Honour and Worships therewith, as a token of my gratitude, and as a promise of my uttermost employment, in these, or any other endeavours, whereto my meanness in ability by you shall be commanded. I know right well, and such as know me, have heard me daily confess it, that I (of infinite others) was the most unmeetest to undergo such a serious business, which required, if not the best able, yet those that therein are much better seen then myself. Nevertheless, importunity of Friends, that grieve to see no willing hand put to the plough, or at least such (even like myself) more forward than wise; their persuasions, I say, and some regard had of the times necessity, every man being borne for the good of his Country; hath (under your Honourable and Worshipful favour) made me thus adventurous. Concerning the helps I have had in this laborious travail, the Authors themselves, who have best written, and discoursed of those several Kingdoms and Nations; even them, & no other have I herein followed, borrowing beside some such matters from them, as (to my knowledge) have not in any of our Chronicles heretofore been remembered, or at the least, not plainly revealed. In our home affairs, especially the antiquity of this famous City, I have (with others) delivered my opinion therein, yet swerving from some, who have been thought over-scrupulous, sometime straining at a Gnat, yet very ealy swallowing a Camel. The Dignity that your Honour holdeth, of Lord Maior of this City, and those grave Senators, the Alder-men your Brethren, I have aimed at the Original & Antiquity thereof; some Authors terming them Domesmen, Eldermen, or judges of the Kings Court. But that the name of Alderman declareth both very Reverend Original, and great Antiquity; I find recorded, that in the time of King Eadgar, one Ailwin, a man of the blood Royal, and, for the special great authority and favour he had with the King (being surnamed Healf-Koning, that is, Half-King) was Alderman of all England, who founded that famous Monastery in the Isle of Ely. Our learned and worthy Antiquary M. Camden, hath observed the Epitaph engraven on his Tomb, containing these words: Hic requiescit Ailwinus incliti Regis Eadgari Cognatus, totius Angliae Aldermannus, et huius sacri Coenobij miraculosus fundator. here resteth Ailwin, Cousin to the Noble King Eadgar, Alderman of all England, and of this holy Abbey the miraculous Founder. Whereby appeareth, that the Title of Alderman, in those ancient, reverend, and respective times, was an addition of honour and high repute, as distinguishing them that deserved that grace, to be men of greater, graver, and more solid judgement, in matters appertaining to the Weal-public, than others, uncapable of such especial dignity. Of such worthy Fathers hath this famous City been plentifully furnished from time to time, as in our Chronicle may more at large appear, and to you those grave Senators and worthily styled Aldermen (out of entire and dutiful affection) have I consecrated the living memory of these my poor labours: wishing to you all unfeignedly, that as heaven hath bestowed this earthly honour upon you, so (hereafter) it may crown you with never dying happiness. Yours in all duty to be commanded, A. Mundy. To the Master, Wardens, Assistants, and whole Livery, of the Honourable Company of Merchant-Tailors, being the worthy Society of S. john Baptist, anciently derived from S. john of Jerusalem, and the famous Knights of that religious Brotherhood. Also to the Wardens Substitutes, and the sixteen men of the same Company, etc. IT hath been my hap (worthy and worshipful Gentlemen) among the variety of Collections, to build up the body of this brief Chronicle; to meet with an ancient and much esteemed Record, of a Society and brotherhood, styled by the name of S. john Baptist of Jerusalem, and how many Great Masters have governed that Society, from Anno. 1099. to this present year, with some brief observations of their lives and actions, as in Follio 187. more at large appeareth. Concerning the original, progression, & several Fortunes of this Military Brotherhood, being termed Knights hospitalers, or Knights of the Hospital of S. john Baptist of jerusalem; next, Knights of Rhodes, and lastly, Knights of Malta; I refer you there to be further satisfied: yet some things being there accidentally omitted, may favourably (and not unnecessarily) here be remembered. These Brethren (by solemn profession) were bound to serve Pilgrims, and poor people in the Hospital of S. john at jerusalem, and to secure (by their manhood) their passages thither, they charitably buried the dead, were continually in prayer, mortified themselves with Watchings and fastings, were courteous and kind to the poor, whom they called their Masters, and fed them with white Bread, when themselves did eat brown. They grew to be loved and liked of all sorts, and, through the liberal bounty of good Princes and private persons (admiring their piety and prowess) they rose from this low degree, to so high an estate and great riches, that about An. 1240. they had within Christendom nineteen thousand Lordships or Manors, as the Knight's Templars had nine thousand, the Revennewes and Rents whereof in England, fell afterward also to these knights hospitalers of S. john Baptist. And this estate of theirs (grown to so great an height) made way for them likewise to as great honours. So that their Prior in England (living then in the goodly Palace of Saint john Baptist of Jerusalem, in the street which received name of that house, and is called yet to this day, Saint johns-street) was reputed the Prime Baron of the land, and called the Lord of S. john's, being able, with fullness and abundance of all things, to maintain a very honourable Port. In success of time, as this worthy City grew to increase, not only in large extendure and beauty of buildings, but also in election of Companies and Corporations, for better supply of the Magistracy, and conveniency of all the aptest means thereto belonging; this Branch of your honourable Society of S. john Baptist (derived of that ancient and memorable Stem, of Saint john of Jerusalem) grew to burgeon and spread itself in goodliest manner. Being Tailors of the Linnen-Armory, and brethren of Saint john Baptist (as most Companies, in those times, had a Saints appellation) they grew to be great in kings favours, who thought it no indignity to themselves, to be styled in the Brotherhood of S. john Baptist, and from their Guilds first Creation by King Edward the third, with authority to hold a feast yearly at Midsummer, and to make choice of a Governor or Master (according to the order of a Great Master, among the Knights hospitalers, of Saint john Baptist of Jerusalem) and Wardens, to assist and aid him in that weighty charge: they proceeded on still (by the ensuing Kings) in further additions of gracious regard, till King Henry the seventh confirmed their Charter, naming them Merchant-Taylors, of the Brotherhood of Saint john Baptist, to continue still the memory of their Original. here may I not also forget, that as the Knights hospitalers at Jerusalem, were always respective in service to Pilgrims and travailers: even so, as if such an humble condition did well merit not to be forgotten, in this Brotherhood (at the beginning) they did use each year to choose a Pilgrim, who attended the service of the Master of the Company, and travailed in behalf of the whole Society. One of the Pilgrims names is recorded by john Stow, to be Henry de Ryall, and that name of Pilgrim continued until the eleventh year of Richard the second, when the four Wardens, were then called purveyors of Alms, now called quarterage of the fraternity. Seven Kings have borne brethren's name of that Society (viz:) Edward the third; Richard the second; Henry the fourth; Henry the fifth; Henry the sixth; Edward the fourth; and Henry the seventh, and (as is credibly affirmed) wearing the Liveryhood on their shoulders, they have gone on the election day, from the Hall, to the Palace of Saint john's, in Saint john's Street, there to hear divine service, and graciously permitted the Master to go on the upperhand, such (in those times) was the mild nature of Princes, showing (by their own example) how Magistrates, and other their meaner Ministers, aught to be held in honour and respect. Passing over the Dukes, Earls, Lords, bishops, Knights, and Gentlemen, who have likewise been brethren of that honourable Society, and many other memorable persons, of whom this little limit alloweth no speech: I will conclude this Epistle, with a brief note of two or three worthy brethren, among infinite other, whose deserts do justly challenge perpetual acknowledgement. Sir William Fitz William the elder, being a Merchant Taylor, and Servant sometime to Cardinal Wolsey, was chosen Alderman of Bread-street-Ward in London, in Anno. 1506. And going afterward to dwell at Mylton in Northamptonshire; in the fall of the Cardinal his former Master, he gave him kind entertainment there at his house in the Country. For which deed, being called before the King, and demanded how he durst entertain so great an enemy to the State: his answer was, that he had not contemptuously or wilfully done it, but only because he had been his Master, and partly the means of his greatest Fortunes. The King was so well pleased with his answer, that, saying, himself had too few such Servants; immediately he knighted him, and afterward made him a privy Counsellor. This worthy Knight dying, gave an hundred pounds to poor Maid's marriages. His debs and debtors, over whose names he had written Amore Dei remitto, he freely forgave. He gave to the Universities forty pound; to the poor thirty pound; to mend the highways betwixt Chigwell and Copersale in Essex 50. pounds; to mend other highways about Thorney and Sawtrie Chapel, and the Bridge, fifty pounds more. And to the Merchant-Taylors his brethren, he gave his best standing Cup, as a friendly remembrance of him. Sir Thomas White, Lord Mayor of this honourable City, and a worthy Brother likewise of that Society, being a lover of Learning, and an earnest furtherer thereof; first purchased the Hall in Oxenford, called Glocester-Hall, for Students and Scholars to receive there the benefit of learning. But his private thoughts very often soliciting him, that he should (in time) meet with a place where two Elms grew, and that there his further forward purpose should take effect: At length he found out the place, where (at his own cost and expenses) he founded the famous College in Oxenford, called Saint john Baptist College, & where those two Elms (as I have heard) are yet standing, endowing it with such liberal Gifts, Lands, and Revennewes, as would require too much time here to be remembered. Beside his provision for Learning in this worthy place, he erected other Schools, as at Bristol, Reading, and a College at Higham Ferries. More, he gave to the City of Bristol, the sum of two thousand pounds, to purchase Land, amounting to the yearly value of an hundred and twenty pounds, the Mayor and Citizens paying therefore yearly an hundred pounds. Eight hundred pounds must be lent to sixteen poor Clothiers, fifty pounds each man for ten years' space, sufficient security being given by them for the same. Afterward, that eight hundred pounds was to pass to other sixteen Clothiers, according to discretion of them put in trust. Two hundred pounds beside was reserved, for provision of Corn and needful occasions for the poor, in the order and care of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Citizens, etc. Then, according to his will, which remaineth yet to be seen, out of this bountiful gift to Bristol, these memorable branches and benevolences, were by himself devised and ordered, beginning in the year ●577. and thence forward they went on according to his own direction. Then was brought to the Merchant-Taylors Hall, an hundred and four pounds, the hundred pound to be lent (for ten years' space) to four poor men in the City of York: And the four pound over plus, to be employed about the charges & pains, that no man (used in the business) might receive discontentment. Then in An. 1578. the like sum was to be delivered thence to Canterbury, and so thenceforward the same sums (yearly) to the Cities and Towns following orderly. 1579. Reading. 1580. The Merchant-taylors' themselves. 1581. Gloucester. 1582. Worcester. 1583. Excester. 1584. Salisbury. 1585. westchester. 1586. Norwich. 1587. Sothampton. 1588. Lincoln. 1589. Winchester. 1590. Oxenford. 1591. Hereford East. 1592. Cambridge. 1493. Shrewesbu●ie. 1594. Ly●ne. 1595. bath. 1596. Derby. 1597. Ipswitch. 1598. Colchester. 1599 Newcastle. This sum of one hundred and four pounds, passing yearly to these forenamed places, from the Merchant-Taylors Hall, and to the good intended uses of the giver; that there might be no breathing while for so just a Steward's Talon, but to have it kept on in continual employment for the poor: the same order was to take beginning again (as before) at the City of York, and so successively (while the World stands) to the Towns before named, in self-same course as it had the original, with great care and observance in them to whom it belongeth, that the dead may not be abused, nor poor men's right injured. But did he thus shut up his Purse, and say to himself. I have given sufficient? No, he did cast his pitying eye next on the City of Coventry, distressed (at that time) in great and grievous manner. What his instant benevolence was, he took it to be but as an hours Sunshine, after a whole day of storm and tempest, although it might yield some comfort, were the season never so short. But to establish a certainty, that no dismay or doubt should ever after be able to remove, (even as a worthy Pyramid, erected to perpetuity) he gave to the City of Coventry 1400. pound, therewith to purchase Lands, rising to the annual value of 70. li. Twelve poor Inhabitants of that City, were to have in free Alms twenty four pounds, each man forty shillings yearly, on the eleventh day of March. Four young men were also to have forty pounds yearly, ten pound each man, and for nine years space, upon sufficient security given; And their turns thus served, than four other young men to have the like sum, and like limitation, and so from nine years, to nine years, for ever. Afterward it was ordered to two poor men of the same City, and lastly to one; in which nature (according to the several limitations) it doth yet, and doubtless shall for ever continue. Also the same sum to one young man in Northampton; next, in the City of Leicester; thirdly, in Nottingham; Fourthly, in Warwick; Then returning to Coventrie again for one year, it repasseth to the said Towns again, each after other yearly for ever. And lest his worthy intent should fail in the continuance, he enlarged his first gift to Coventrie, of 1400. pounds, to 2000 and 60. pound, to be employed as hath been remembered, forty pound yearly being paid out of it to Saint john Baptist College in Oxford: And allowances also by himself given in each place, that bonds should be made without any charge to the receiver. Sir Thomas Row, Lord Mayor of this famous City, and a worthy Merchant-Taylor, beside his charitable cost and charges, in building the new Churchyard in Bedlam, for such Parishes as wanted benefit of burial: Gave forty pounds yearly, to maintain ten poor men for ever, such as were not brethren of his own Society, but chosen out of five several Companies (viz.) Clothworkers, Armourers, Carpenters, Tilers, and plasterer: As considering, that by overtoyling labour, dangers, falls, bruises, and such like inconveniences, they were soonest like to become impotent, and unable to help or maintain themselves. Therefore to each of these ten men, he freely gave the sum of four pound quarterly, to be paid them at the Merchant-Taylors Hall, during their lives; and then to succeed to other men in the same Companies, according to due consideration, of just cause and most necessity. Lastly, worthy Gentlemen, to hold ye no longer, in matter better known to yourselves then me, because it is in your own eyes and ears (almost) daily, the never dying memory, of a yet living (and long may he so be) Brother Merchant-Taylor, shall be my conclusion. This virtuous and Religious man, knowing Death to be an unindifferent Executor, and Life much more worthy of trust and employment; hath prevented that gripple greedy Tyrant, and made such large Legacies to Life, that Death never deserved to be put in trust withal. If men of this World, such as GOD hath liberally bestowed his blessings on, would (with this good-minded man) consider, that, let their wills be never so wisely made, yea, all Art and Dexterity therein (to the very uttermost) employed: yet death, and his long wide gaping Children, have many hangers on, many means & devices, but many more tricks and unfaithful performances; they would trust life the better, as this man hath done, and let death have only the reversion, which is the easier to be considered on. It is not for my pen to set down his praises, leaves of Marble or Brass are meeter for those Characters, that the devouring teeth of Time may never deface. Let this th●n 〈◊〉 ●ome addition to your honour, that you have su●h a ●orthy Brother; mindful of the works of Mercy to th●●oore, among yourselves, and many places elsewhere▪ careful of offenders, whom law sentencing with Death, by the Watchbell of Prayer are encited to compunction; and hopeful of all goodness, to pursue 〈◊〉 virtuous determinations every where. So that w●en ●is dove shall find no resting place for his foot▪ 〈◊〉 reason of this worlds tumultuous waves; he may return to the Ark of blessedness, the happy home, that he, you, and all else that fear God, should daily long for. Yours ever, A. MUNDY. TO THE ANCIENT, WORTHY, AND RIGHT Worshipful Company of the goldsmiths; the Master, Wardens, Assistants, Livery: and likewise to every loving Brother, and member thereof. LEt me not be thought (Right Worshipful Society) more bold than becomes me, that in search of Antiquity, and Success of Times, guided by good observation, and probable Authorities, I thus present you (in unfeigned affection) what I have gathered, concerning your worthy Brotherhood. If I had time here to set down (without prejudice to any other Mystery whatsoever) that which Holy Writ recordeth of you, and of men (then) most expert in your profession; this poor Epistle would increase itself to a very large discourse, and exceed the limit whereto I have tied myself in the whole labour. I pass over the captivity of God's chosen people in Babylon, and the Offices of those three especial chosen men, Zerubbabell, Ezra, and Nehemiah: the first, being their Captain to guide them home, and provided that the Temple was builded: the second, reforming manners, and making a plantation of Religion: the third and last, to build up the walls, and make a new City of jerusalem again: Yet let me tell you, that among the multitude of Officers and Offices, appointed to this business, for building the walls, the Merchants and Goldsmiths do bear a remarkable note, the very words in Scripture being these: Between the Chamber of the Corner unto the Sheepe-gate, fortified the Gold smiths and the Merchants. Beside, that which is spoken of Malchi●h the goldsmiths son, fortifying to the house of the Nethinims; And then, of Bezaleell the Son of Vri, filled with the Spirit of God, in wisdom and understanding, to work in Gold, Silver, & Brass; who had Aholiab joined with him, to make all curious works (appointed by God himself) for the Tabernacle of the Congregation, the Ark of the Covenant, and the mercy-seat, etc. If these be not Testimonies of extraordinary honour and respect, in the very names of Merchants and Goldesmiths (but much more, in the matter of so high an employment) confirmed by an assurance so unreprovable, and equalling what can be said (in like case) of venerable Antiquity; I refer myself to be censured by the very severest judgement. Secondly, concerning the first workers in Gold, Silver, and other Metals, in any place of eminence or note in Europe (under control nevertheless, of such as have read and observed more than I have done) I find their Original to be among the ever-curious & ingenious Venetians, even at the first plantation of Venice, which justly may be termed Miracolo del Mondo. The foundation of Venice, holds parity and proportion of Antiquity, with the prime estate of the Francs or French, as you may observe where it is more at large expressed. Looking back then to the first Note of Divine observation, and remembering (after the world's division among the sons of Noah) that japhets' son Tubal had all Europe for his partition, with this last Collestion concerning Venice; and then, as all Arts and Sciences have a place of Original, as Rivers from the Sea, and extend themselves afterward to the remotest places of the world: So may it likewise be gathered, that those respective times, admiring and honouring Art and Invention, gave such way to their present, and succeeding fame & passage, that all Lands became Partners of their predecessors prerogatives. Lastly, to speak but of our own Kingdom, and therein (for brevities sake) but of this Noble City itself; I find, that when it had cast off the yoke of strange confusion, endured under the sufferance of so many conquerings: After (I say) it came to have command within itself, under the awe and gracious favour of worthy Kings and Potentates, who made choice of Magistrates, to be their Deputies, and to present their Godlike persons for general obedience: the very first man that attained to the place of eminence, and was styled More of this renowned City, was called Henry Fitz-Alwine, Fitz-Liefstane, Goldsmith, and held that supreme Office more than 24. years together. A memorable Note, in regard of Priority, and as since then, carefully remembered, so justly challenging continuance to utmost posterity. But because this slender volume speaks more, (though briefly) of you, than here can well be afforded, and cometh to you from a free heart, in kindness, requiring but as free and courteous acceptance: this is all the charge by me imposed on it. To tell the whole Golden band of your worthy Brotherhood, that I have done nothing herein, either for flattery or vainglory, or in expectation of mercenary recompense; but according to truth, sincerity, and honesty which is the best defence for any that speaks of Antiquity. Yours to be commanded, A. Mundy. A Table of the several Arguments, handled in this Book. THe Original and Succession of our forefathers, from Adam to the general Deluge. Fol: 1. From the Flood, to the Princes and judges of Israel. 5 Fron the Princes & judges, to the jewish kings. 12 From the jewish Kings, to the Kings of juda. 14 From the Kings of juda and jerusalem, to the Monarchy, etc. 19 The Monarchy of the Chaldeans, Assyrians, etc. 19 The Monarchy of the Persians. 20 The Monarchy of the Grecians. 23 The Kings of Macedon. 24 The Kings of Syria. 26 The Kings of Egypt. 29 The Monarchy of the Caesars or romans. 32 The Emperors of the west from Charlemaign. 54 The Emperors of the East. 61 The Ottomans or Turkish Emperors. 89 Original of the Saracens. 102 Bishops & Popes of Rome, from the original, and Ages of the Church. 108 Original of the Knights of S. john's of jerusalem, and all other Orders of Knighthood. 157 Of the Emperor of Ethiopia, Pr●te jan. 214 Of the Kingdom of Persia. 220 Of the Kingdom of Thunis. 227 Of the great Province of Moscovia. 229 Of the Kingdom of Poland. 233 Of sundry other kingdoms Conquered by the romans. 235 Of the Kingdom of Portugal. 241 Of the Kingdom of Italy. 255 The Original of the Venetians. 258 Of the Dukes of Venice. 269 Of the Kingdom of Spain. 300 Of Germany, and the Prince's Electors. 304 The Original of the French Nation. 305 Of Pharamont, the first king of France, and consequently of all the other kings of France. 316 Of the Earls of Holland and Zealand. 382 Of the Kingdom of Ireland. 427 Of the Governors, Lieutenants, and Deputies of Ireland. 435 Of the Kingdom of Scotland. 442 Of Albion, before Brutus' arrival, & what Kings reigned there. 466 The Light of Britain, and of all the Kings succeeding after Brute. 471 A Catalogue of the Princes of Wales. 522 Of England's Bishoprics, & their circuits. 526 Foundation of the Colleges in Cambridge & Oxenford. 532 Of the Shires in England and Wales. 535 Original Antiquity, and modern estate of London. 537 Temporal Government of London, since the Conquest. 573 A SHORT SVMmary or brief Chronicle of TIMES. ¶ Containing the original and succession of our ancient Forefathers, from the first CREATION of the World: As also of the monarchs, Emperors, Kings, Popes, and Famous men, with all the most memorable matters happening since the worlds beginning, to this instant time. OUR Eternal GOD, all good, Years of the world Almighty, and most merciful, in the beginning, created and made the World of nothing: that is to say; Heaven, Earth, and Waters, as first and principal matter, together with the Angels. He disposed and gave form in six days, Genes. 1. (for he rested the seventh, and blessed it) to all things enclosed within the circle of Heaven. All which he did by his word, namely jesus Christ, and the blessed Spirit: these three persons being one Divine essence (for the works of the sacred Trinity are inseparable) whom I most humbly beseech to favour and assist me, in beginning and ending this short Summary. After that this sovereign Architect had created (of nothing) in one instant, this first mass or matter, and disposed in six days this whole round frame: at length, & upon the sixth day he created Man of the slime of the earth (in the Damascene territory situate in Syria, The Creation of man or in Hebron, according to the Haebrues Tradition, into which place he withdrew himself after he had sinned) and made him after his own likeness, as concerning his soul, which also he created of nothing: Gen. 1. he named him Adam, that is to say, Red man, or Red-Earth, according to the Hebrew language. Afterward, he took a rib from Adam, as he lay asleep in Paradise, and thereof form Hevah, Marriage & household life. which signifieth, as Moses writeth (followed by josephus) Soroow, and Mother of the Living; and according to Zorarus, Woman. Thus began the institution of Marriage, and household life together. Genes. 2, 3. Adam and Hevah our first Parents, by persuasion of the Serpent (that is to say, The fall of man.. the Devil) transgressed the Commandment which God had given them, for effect of their faith and obedience. In regard whereof, they were cast out of terrestial Paradise, that is to say, a Garden abounding in pleasures, where GOD had placed them together: and (with their posterity) were subjecteth to sin, death, and the Devil. The reparation of man in the promise of jesus Christ. But our good God, being made all of mercy, perceiving the offence of Man, did promise him, that the seed of the Woman, which is jesus Christ, should break the head of the Serpent, that is to say, his kingdom and power, delivering us from the captivity of sin, death, Gen. 2, 3. & the Devil. In this promise we may note the source or springhead of the Gospel▪ Original of the Gospel. which afterward was oftentimes repeated, and diversly signified by sundry figures, for comfort of our holy Forefathers, even to the coming of jesus Christ. When Adam was thrown forth of Paradise, 15. 30. he began to labour in the earth with great pain. Afterward, he knew Hevah his wife, who brought him a son called Cain, who was an husbandman, and the first murderer of his brother Abel, the just Shepherd. Genes. 2, 3. In whom began the first persecution of the Saints by the wicked, for the true and sincere service of God. In this man also began the Kingdom or city of God, and in the other, The City of God, and of the world. the city of the World and of the Devil, as shallbe better manifested in Nimrod. This murder being thus committed, Cain was abominable in the sight of God, Genes. 4. he withdrew himself from his father, and builded a City after the name of his first son Enoch. Adam had daughters also, 138. and at the age of 230. years, he begat Seth. Seth, at the age of 105. years, begat Enos. 2●5. Enos aged 99 years, begat Cainam. 325. Cainam, aged 70. years, begat Malaleel. 395. 460. Malaleel aged 605. years, begat Iared. 622. Iared aged 160. years, begat Enoch. 6●7. Enoch, who at the age of 65. years, begat Methusalem, walked with God, declaring his judgements, to ensue upon men degenerating from humane and reasonable Nature, into brutish and unbridled voluptuousness. For the Sons of God (that is to say, the Saints, by the generation of Seth) beholding the Daughters of men (that is to say, Genes. 5, 6. the wicked by the generation of Cain) to be fair: took them to Wife, without any regard, and celebrated marriages with the people of abomination, of whom Giants were borne men▪ of might, Giants. and great Renown. 874. Methusalem at the age of 187. years, begat Lamech. 9●0. Adam died aged 930. years: Just Enoch was carried alive up into heaven. 1056. Lamech, at the age of 182. years, begat Noah the deliverer of justice: whom the Poets (not understanding the creation of the world) called Heavens Chaos, Seed of the world, & Father of the Gods. Noah, being 500 years of age, with his wife Thitea, that is to say Earth; or, according to the Poets, Aretia, Cybele, Vesta, and Mother of the Gods, begat Sem, Cham, and japhet: with whom by the commandment of God, in the hundred year after, he entered into the Ark which had been built by him, and was preserved from the Flood. The General Deluge. BY which inundation of waters, God brought an horrible vengeance, to punish the wicked lives of men. Sem, who was Melchizedech, 1659. Gen. 10, 11 two years after the flood, begat Arphaxad, 1695. being then aged 100 years. Arphaxad aged 35. years, begat Salê. 1725. Salê, at the age of thirty years, begat Heber, Gen. ●1. and builded the City of Salem (though some say it was Sem) that should be called jerusalem, the City of God, seated in the midst of judea. Heber, 1759. of whom the Hebrews were after named, being aged 34. years, begat P●aleg: The division or partage of the world. Gen. 10, 11 Berosus in 1. de Antiquit. at which time the earth was divided between the sons of Noah. Sem and his offspring enjoyed the East part of Syria, to wit, Asia. I'm Zoroastres had judea, Egypt, Arabia▪ and all Africa. japhet, who by the Poets is called japetus, 1789. had (with his people) all Europe. Phaleg, at the age of thirty years, begat Reu, The kingdom of the Celts. The kingdom of Italy. The kingdom of Egypt. Beros 4. et 5. The Kingdom of Spain, etc. at which time, Nimrod the Babylonian Saturn, & hindmost Nephew of Cham, began his reign; builded the Tower of Babel, where began the confusion of tongues into seventy two, the common language of the Hebrew remaining entire. Samothes or Dis, King of the Gauls, (of whom the Gauls or Celts, term themselves to be descended, as Caesar declareth in his sixth Book) began also his reign in short time after: as Gomerus Gallus likewise did his in Italy, and Tubal the Son of japhet his rule in Caltiberia, now called Spain. Oceanus' swayed in Egypt; as Tuiscon or Ascenas did in Allemain or Germany 1821. Reu at the age of 32. years, begat Saruch. 1●●0. Saruch, aged thirty years, begat Nahor, or Nachor, termed Fair jupiter the second, King of the Assyrians. 1879. Nachor, at the age of 29. years, begat Thares or Terah, who is said to be Ninus the third King of the Assyrians. He erected Temples, Altars, and Statues to his dead father, which were a great occasion, Coin first found out in Egypt. The kingdom of the Syconians. & the very source of Idolatries. Osiris and Isis first found out the means of Corn at this time in Egypt, and now did Aegia●eus become first King of the Sicyonians, or Peloponnesus, now named Morea. 1950. Thares, a maker and seller of Idols, being 70 years of age, begat Abraham, Nahor, and Aran the Father of Lot. Beros lib. 5. Diodor. lib. 3 Semiramis the wife of Ninus, (in habit of a man) reigned over the Assyrians, in the name of her Son. 2007. Noah, died aged 905. year old, 350. years after the flood. Genes. 9 Saturn, Pluto, Cybele, Mother of the Gentiles Gods, Sol, jupiter, Pallas or Minerva, Venus, Cupid, Vulcan, Mercury, and all the crew of these feigned Gods then began. 2025. Abraham, boing aged 75. years, by the Commandment of God, departed from his own Country and Kindred, Genes. 12. Gen. 21, 20, 25. for God had promised unto him the land of Canaan, and blessing upon all people, by his wisdom which is jesus Christ: he begat Isaac. Saron King of Gaul ordained public Schools. Druis his successor, being a very wise Prince, (of whom the Druids are said to be derived) appointed Priests & Philosophers among the Gauls. So do affirm Berosus in his fifth Book, Caesar in his sixth Book, Berosus lib 5 Caesar. lib. 6. Cor. Tacit in mor. Germ. and Cornelius Tacitus in the Manners of the Allemaynes or Germans. Isaac, aged 60. years, 2109. begat on his Wife Rebecca Esau and jacob, twins. Abraham, Gen. 25. The kingdom of the Argives Beros. lib. 5 Diodor. lib 6 Sem and Heber died. Inachus was the ancient and first King of the Argives. At this time Bardus K. of the Gauls, became the inventor of Verses and of Music, and Hercules ruled in Lybia. jacob, called Israel, at the age of 84. years, 2193. married Lea and Rachel, and of them, together with their two Handmaids, had twelve sons: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Father of the Levites, and Priestly lineage: juda (of whom the jews do hold their name) and the Royal lineage of jesus Christ descended: Issachar, Zabulon, Gad, Aser, Gen. 29, 30 Dan, Nephtalin, joseph, and Benjamin, all patriarchs, with Dina, one only daughter, who was the wife of job, according as Philo the jew recordeth. Of these twelve patriarchs, the 12. Tribes or Lineages descended. Afterward, 22●9 jacob being aged 130. years, went down into Egypt with all his family, to his Son joseph the Deputy to Pharaoh, who had been sold by his brethren. Gen. 37, 41 In that place he gave up the ghost, being aged then 147. years: having prophesied, that jesus Christ should come, before that the Sceptre were taken from juda, Genes. 49. or a Duke of his generation. Galathes the Son of Hercules, was King of Gaul, 2257. whereof it took the name, Prometheus and Atlas at this time were very excellent Astrologians. 2311. joseph died 54. years after his Father. The Israelites now began to be evil entreated by the Egyptians. Genes. 50. Moses the last Nephew of Levi, was borne 64. years after the death of joseph. 2375. Cecrops then builded the City of Athens, and was first King thereof: The kingdom of Athens. Also, he was the first Author of the most abominable idolatries, that ever were among the Grecians. The Deluge of Deucalion. Exodus. Princes and judges of Israel. 2454. MOses, aged 80. years, by the commandment of God reproved Pharaoh; Leviticus. Numbers. wrought many miracles in Egypt, withdrew the people of Israel our of Egypt by the Red-Sea, being in number more than six hundred thousand. Exod. 12. Galath. 3. This their departure thence, happened in the year 430. of the promise made to Abraham, for the blessing of all Nations by his seed. Moses' gave the Law to the people (in the Deserts of Arabia) as a Schoolmaster, until the coming of the promised seed. For this cause he ordained for the sins of the people, divers Ceremonies of sacrifices marriages, punishments, & solemnities of feasts. For the action of War, Deuterono. he numbered more than six hundred and three thousand, without comprehension of the Levites, to whom he prescribed their charge. In the end, he instructed the rude people in divers commandments. For God's ordinances he constituted josuah his successor, and rendered up his spirit in the 120. year of his life: and of the departing out of Egypt, the 40. read Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, all which are here thus briefly collected. Da●danus having slain his Brother jason, The kingdom of Troy. was the first King of Troy. janigines was then King in Italy: the most cruel Tyrant Busiris King in Egypt: and Mercurius Trismegistus, that is to say: three times the most great King, Priest and Philosopher: See M. Ficinus in his life. josuah passed the people dry foot through the River of jordan, into the Land of Promise. ●465. The Sun stayed while he fought the battle: josuah. he slew one and thirty Kings. And after he had distributed their Countries amongst the people: he died thirty years after the death of Moses. The Israelites than left God, and served Idols. Orcus, King of the Molosses made then a rape of Proserpina: And Cadmus brought the Characters of Letters into Greece. othoniel, of the Lineage of juda, 2526. governed the people eight years, and was the third judge of Israel in order, and not the first, judges 3. as some have supposed. He delivered the people from the oppression of the King of Mesopotamia. Aiod or Ehua, slew the king of the Moabites, 2534. judges 3. reigned eight years, and delivered the people from the idolatry of the Moabites. In this time began, but much rather increased the Gods and Idolatries of the Gentiles (according to josephus) as Bacchus, Pandion, Radamanthus, Aeacus, Minos' King of Crect. Dedalus and Icarus, at this time made their flight. Tantalus Amphion, founder and first King of Thebes. Linus. 2614. Barach with Deborah the Prophetess, judged 40. years, overcame with ten thousand men only, the Army of Sisara, consisting of two hundred thousand men. The Argonauts sailed then to Colchos; then lived Areus and Thyestes', Pan also, and Midas King of Phrygia, abounded in Treasures. 2654. Gedeon a valiant Captain, judged forty years, and delivered the Israelites from the servitude of the Madianites. In this time lived Circe's, Medea, Enchanteresses, with Medusa and Andromeda. The kingdom of the Mycenae's Euristheus first king of Mycena, & was slain by Aeacides, having commanded (well near) through all Greece, for the space of forty five years together. 2694. Abimelech, the natural Son of Gedeon, was judge three years, he slew 69. of his natural & legitimate Brethren, only that he might reign. Sparta or Lacedaemon was then builded by Spartus the Son of Phoroneus: Others do attribute the building thereof to Aristhenes, who was their first king. 26●7. Thola was judge 25. years: then lived Ruth Mother to the Grandmother of David: Ruth. then also were Castor, Pollux, Apollo the inventor of Music, Aesculapius his Son, Orpheus and Museus, who were the first Poets, according to Linus. jair judged 22. years, during which time, 2710. the people lived in marvelous quiet, as they did before, in the reign of Thola. But afterward there happened interregnum eighteen years together: in all which time, the Israelites were servile to the Philistims, for their idolatries. Pyrrhus then invented the Tennis Play: Theseus vanquished the Minotaur, and Hercules came from Spain into Italy, 55. years before Aeneas. Iephta the Bastard was judge six years, 2760. and being thereto compelled by his vow, he slew his only Daughter. Theseus now made his rape of Helena, she being then a very young Maiden. Sibylla Aericthrea, lived in this time, she that foretold the ruin of Troy, and of whom Homer telleth many goodly tales. Abesan or Ibsan judged seven years: 2766. The History of Ruth happened in this time. Pluto, Neptune, than were, and Paris stole Helena, the wife to Menelaus' king of the Lacedæmonians. Elon was judge ten years, 2773. in whose time happened the War between the greeks and the Trojans, The war of Troy. for the rape of Helena Wife to Menelaus, by Paris Son to Priam, the last King of Troy. Abdon judged eight years, 2783. Aeneas with his companions came into Italy, and Francus (if we may believe Manethous and others) the Son of Hector, with his followers also came into Austria. Of the one descended the Latins, & kings of the romans: and of the other the Kings of France. In these days lived Pylades and Orestes the two loyal friends. 2791. Samp●on the strong, was judge 20. years, he slew a thousand Philistims with the jaw-bone of an Ass, judges 20. and was deceived by a Strumpet. The Lineage or Tribe of Benjamin was now almost utterly destroyed, only thorough detestable voluptuousness. 2811. Hely Priest and judge, reigned forty years, and was punished of God, for his over great indulgence towards his children. The Ark of Moses was then taken by the Philistims. B●ute the Son of Silvius third King of the Latins, expulsed then the cruel Giants out of the Island, which (after his own name) he called Britain, now England, and divided his Land to his three Sons, in three several kingdoms, to wit, Loegria to Locrine: Cambria, now called Wales, to Camber; and Albania, now called Scotland, to his third Son Albanact. 2851. The kingdoms of Lacedaemon & Corinth Samuel the Prophet, and innocent judge to those wicked children. He anointed Saul to the Israelites, they desiring a King t And then began the Kingdom of the Lacedæmonians, instituted by Euristhenes, and of the Corinthians founded by Atletes. Kings of all the jewish people. 2851. SAule, first King of the Israelites, with Samuel reigned forty years. He pardoned Agag King of Amalec his Prisoner, and reserveth the spoil to Sacrifice to God, 1. Kings. contrary to his Commandment. He took counsel of Pythonissa the Enchantress: for which he was reproved of God, and was slain in the battle. David, both King and Prophet, 2891. in his youth he was a Shepherd, and feared God: 11. Kings. but afterward forgetting himself, he committed both adultery & murder. He reigned forty years, and being wearied with many molestations, he wrote his Book of Psalms to the glory of God. To him was renewed the ancient promise of jesus Christ, and of his eternal kingdom: who (as concerning his manhood, and according to the flesh) descended of him. Solomon reigned forty years. 2931. Of such provision as David (with mighty expenses) had prepared: 111. Kings. in the fourth year of his reign he builded a Temple to God, which in seven years after was finished, it being 80. years, Kings. 3, 6. after the coming forth of Egypt. He composed the Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Canticles. At length, spending his time in the delight of women & strange Concubines: he, who was a holy man, elected of God as both Son and King: fell into idolatry. In regard whereof, his kingdom (after his death) was divided to the kingdom of juda, which was for Rehoboam the Son of Solomon; & to the kingdom of Israel, for jeroboam the Son of Nabat. Kings of juda, or of jerusalem. 2971. REhoboam the Son of Solomon, King of juda, despised his Elders, and adhered to the counsel of young heads. He reigned wickedly 17 years. jeroboam the first King of Israel, induced the people to idolatry. In this time flourished the Poet Homer. 2988. Abiam the Son of Rehoboam, reigned three years. He trusting in God, overcame jeroboam king of Israel, who was accompanied with eight hundred thousand chosen, strong & valiant men, yet lost five hundred thousand of them, by the others Army, which consisted but of four hundred thousand. 2991 Asa, a very good King, reigned one and forty years: he took away the Idols, and deposed his Mother from the Title of Lady, because she had erected them. He, trusting in his Physicians, and not requiring help of God, being diseased in his feet, died. 3032. jehosaphat reigned five and twenty years, he was a most debonair Prince, appointing every where Lawmakers and Magistrates, 1111. Kings. 4. Kings 2. admonishing them daily to do their duty. In his time the great Prophet Helias was wrapped up into heaven. Ahab a most wicked King of Israel, took to wife jezabel as wicked a woman: they were both reproved by the Prophet Elias: The Priests of Baal were destroyed. 3555. jehorum, the wicked Son of a virtuous Father reigned eight years, being the husband to Athalia the Sister of Achab. Now was the prophet Elizeus. In these days Lycurgus the Lawmaker, did cut off the excess of food & garments: Hesiodus. Othozias, importuned by his Mother Athalia, 3060. the Daughter of Amry, reigned wickedly one year. He was overthrown by jehu, king of Israel, the last of Salomon's line. jehu also vanquished jezabel, & the wife and brethren of Achab, with all the Priests of Baal, in whose Temple they made their Thefts and Robberies. Athalia slew all the Royal seed or race, 306●. except joas, who was nourished and kept by jehoida. Afterward Athalia was slain in the seventh year of her reign. joas reigned justly forty years, 3067. during the time of jehoida the Priest: who being dead, he slew Zacharias his son in the Temple. Sardanapalis king of the Assyrians being then vanquished, threw himself into a fire. Afterward his Monarchy was divided among his Officers, into the kingdoms of Assyria and Medea. The kingdom o● Carthage. Pygmalion being king of tire, Dido his Sister builded Carthage, which she reduced into a kingdom: she being a woman very magnanimous, and chaste, as justine affirmeth, in his eightéenth Book, whatsoever Virgil and Ovid say to the contrary. Amasius reigned five and twenty years: he was admonished by the Prophet, 3107. not to put his trust in human strength: yet for idolatry he was taken and slain by his enemies. Some do report, that at this time was the ending of the effeminate Sa●●anapalu●, and so consequently of the first Assyrian Monarchy, which continued after Nimrod, 1358. years. 3136. Osias reigned justly two and fifty years. He undertook the sacrificing Priests office, for which he was switten with Leprosy, in the ●8. year of his reign. In this time, Abdias, Amos, and joel the Prophets lived. Belus, by some termed Belocus, first King of the Babylonians, was translated to the new Kingdom of the Assyrians, The kingdoms of the Medes and Macedonians. and now was the beginning of the Olympiad in Greece. Then also began the kingdom of the Medes, by Arsacus Lieutenant to the womanish Sardanapalus: And that of the Macedonians by Gramaus. 3188. joathan a good King, reigned sixteen years, in which time were Micheas, Nahum, and jonas the Prophets. Romulus and Remus, in the first year of the seventh olympiad, builded the City of Rome in Italy: For the beginning whereof, it is necessary to read Dionysius Halicarnasseus in his first Book: Solynus Cap. 2, and Pausanias, rather than Cato's Originals, and Fabius Pictors fragments, suspected rather of Novelty, than antiquity: The kingdom of the Lydians. according to Beat. Revanus. Some do refer it to the following reign: about this time began the kingdom of the Lydians, by Ardis, 3204 Achaz the idolater, reigned sixteen years. Esay then prophesied (as appeareth in his seventh Chapter) of jesus Christ, to be borne of a Virgin. And Micheas, that he should be borne in Bethlehem: The kingdom of the Romans. About this time began the kingdom of the romans, by Romulus. Ezechias a good King, reigned 29. years: 3218. he broke the Serpent of Moses, whereunto the people had so many years offered Sacrifice. Salmanazar King of the Assyrians (for Idolatry) ruined the whole kingdom of Israel unto Samaria, which had continued 244. years. The Angel of God did then overthrow an hundred & fourscore M. men of war, in the Army of Sennacherib, for their most execrable blasphemies. Tobias was captive then in Ninivy. Numa Pompillius, king of Rome, added two months to the year, january and February, there being no more before, but ten, in regard of them. Manasses, being a wicked and cruel king, 3247. reigned 55. years: he caused the Prophet Esay to be sawed in sunder thorough the midst. And being captived by his enemies, he acknowledged God; and being reduced to his kingdom, he demolished the Idols. Tullus Hostilius, third King of Rome destroyed the kingdom of Alba, whence came the family of the julij to Rome. Candaulus & Gyges were then Kings of Lydia. Amon, a more wicked King than his Father Manasses, reigned two years, 3302. 4. Kings 11 and was slain by his own servants. Zaleucus was then Lawgiver to the Locrians. josias a very good King, reigned 31. years: 3304. he cut down the hallowed Woods and the Idols. In this time the Books of Moses, which for many years together had been lost, were found again, and now lived Sophonie, Abacuch, and jeremy the Prophets: as also Archilocus, Simonides, and Phocylides▪ Poets. Ancus Martius, was the fourth king of Rome, Epimenides. 3335. joacham, a very evil King, the third month of his reign, was led captive into Egypt, and his Brother constituted king in his place, by the king of Egypt. 3336. jocim reigned eleven years. For his abominations, he was chained and led captive to Babylon, by Nabuchadonoser the great king of the Assyrians. Tarqvinius Priscus, was fifth king of the Romans. In Greece then lived Sappho, Stesichorus, Pherecydes, Draco, Solon, and others of the Sages. 3346. joachim, otherwise called jeconias, being 18. years old, and besieged by the Assyrians, yielded himself with his Mother, his Princes, and the greater part of his people, to Nabuchadonoser and was transported into Babylon, where (in prison he begat Salathiell, Father to Zorobabell: then lived Ezechiell, Baruch, and Daniel. 3●49. Sedechias his Uncle, was constituted king in the place of Ieconias, by Nabuchadonoser, by whom, after the eleventh year of his reign, he was taken as a Rebel: his eyes were plucked out, and then he was led with the rest of the people to Babylon. In this time, the Temple and City of jerusalem was miserably burned by the Assyrians Then happened that lamentable captivity of Babylon, foretold by the Prophets, and continued seventy years: all which was occasioned by the contempt of God's word, false Doctrine, and avarice in the Priests and Prophets: conjoined with the tyranny of their Kings, and sins of the people, but especially idolatry: as appeareth in jeremy, Cap. 19, 22, 23, 29, 32. Baruch 6. Ezechiell 13, 22. And then was this great Nabuchadonoser (for his arrogancy) thrust out of his kingdom, and fed with the Beasts. Servius Tullius was sixth King of the romans; Croesus in Lydia, Balthasar in Babylon, and, for abusing the Vessels of the Temple, he was slain. The kingdom then devolved to Darius the Medean, Uncle of Cyrus, King of Persia and Medea. The Monarchy of the Chaldeans, Assyrians, or Babylonians. NAbuchadonoser, 3362. the great King of Babylon, in the 24. year of his reign, and of the world 3362. was he that established the great and first Monarchy, described with that of the Persians, Grecians, and romans by Daniel, Daniel. 2, 7 compared to the head of gold, and to the Eagle flying. It endured but seventy eight years, in three Kings, and he that reigned longest, it was but 43 years. Euilmerodach, whom Herodotus calleth Labynitus, reigned thirty years. Thales, Clito, 3382. Herod. lib. 1 Pittacus, Bias, Cleobulus and Periander, wisemen of Greece, are all referred to this time. And it is an error to separate them otherwise, as some have done, Solo● being the most ancient. 3412. Balthazar, the contemner of God, and renewer of the old Chaldean idolatry (abolished before) abusing (in his feasts) those vessels, Blasphemy the ruin of the monarchy. which had been taken from the temple of jerusalem, and making a mockery at the true God of the jews; was put to death by the Medes and Persians, who possessed themselves of the Monarchy, in the tenth year of his reign. There is great difficulty about this Monarchy, which cannot here be declared. The Monarchy of the Persians. 3406. CYrus sent home the jews into their country, with zerobabel their condu●er, to repair the Temple. He made war against the Scythians for the space of sixteen years: in which time reigned his Son C●mbyses. Daniel then foretolo the passion of jesus Christ, and the desolate ruin of jerusalem under Vespasian, Dan. 9 Matth 24 Luke ●1 after seventy weeks were passed over, which were 490. years after the repayration of the City: Tarquin the proud, for the violation of Lucretia, was then chased out of Rome. consuls were created the year 244. after the building of Rome. Cyrus reigned 29. years. Read more of Cyrus & his son, Herodotus lib. 1, 3. Xenophon 8. Cambyses reigned alone eight years, 3435. being a cruel man, he slew his Brother and Sister, and caused a judges skin to be flayed off, because he had judged falsely. Pythagoras the great Philosopher sailed into Egypt, to learn Divinity, and to Babylon for Astrology, and the course of the stars. Many do refer the History and overthrow of Holofernes to this time: but according to Genebrard, it is reputed to the time of Nabuehadonoser. Darius, the son of Hidaspes, otherwise called Ahasuerus, the husband of Hester, 3443. reigned 36 years. He entered into Greece with six hundred thousand fight men, & afterward vanquished Miltiades, being accompanied only with eleven thousand men. Coriosanus the Roman was now put into exile, and Esope composed his book of Fables. Now lived also Anacharsis, An●ximenes, and Herac●●●us Philosophers. Anaximander invented the Horologe and Sphere, & strong Milo was in this time. Read more of Darius in Herodotus and justine. Lib. 1. Xerxes reigned twenty years. He assailed the Grecians with a far greater Army, 3470. then that his Father had, which was repulsed by Themisto●les. In mean while, his Son Artaxerxes hold the Kingdom, by whose commandment, E●●r●s restored the Commonweal of the le●es; and Nehemias (by strong hand) repaired the walls of the City. Now lived C●mon, Aristedes and Pindarus the Poet, as also Pericles, that wise and valiant Athenian Captain: of whom, read more in his life, set down by Plutarch. 3506. Artaxerxes, or Darius' Long-hand, held the kingdom above twenty years. Now did the ten men write the law of the twelve tables at Rome; and now lived Empedocles, Sophocles, Gorgias, Anacreon, Democritus, Euclides, Hippocrares, and Herodotus. Greece became divided into two factions, The Pelaponesian war. by reason of a great & contentious war. Read more thereof in Thucydides & Xenophon. 3544. Darius' the Bastard reigned 19 years: in whose time lived Socrates, Aristophanes, Thucydides, Alcibiades, Lysander, Conon, Epaminondas, Architas, Timon, Dionysius of Siracusa the Tyrant. And now was the kingdom of the Sicambrians, and Francus in Franconia (according to Trithemius) where reigned forty Kings. 3565. Artaxerxes Mnemon, reigned forty years, and exercised acts of Arms with his Brother Cyrus. Thrasibulus chased the Lacedaemonian Tyrants out of Athens. Rome was taken by the Gauls, under the conduct of Brennus that bold warrior. Then lived Xenophon the Captain, Philosopher and Orator, Plato, Photion, Isocrates, Polybius, 'tis Liu dec. 4. Lib. 8. Praxiteles, Metasthenes, Camillus, and Crates. 3604. Occhus (a most cruel Tyrant) reigned six and twenty years. Philip King of Macedon, oppressed the liberty of all Greece. At Rome was then Curtius Torquatus, Decius Corinnus: the hundred and sixty Matron Sorceresses. jadus was Highpriest of the jews, and then lived Berosus the Historian. Arses or Arsaces, reigned three years. 3625. His tyrannical actions were the cause, that all the race of great Cyrus perished. Alexander the great, the Son of Philip, then vanquished and demolished the City of Thebes: And then were Demosthenes, Diogenes, and Epicurus. Darius' the last King, 3629. was ingrateful and disloyal, he was also overcome by Alexander, in the sixth year of his reign. The Samnites than subdued the romans: and then was Ceius Papyrius Cursor. M. Curius Dentatus, triumphing in his humility of mind, refused the treasures of the Samnites, and he would neither be vanquished in war, nor corrupted with money. Valer. Max. lib. 2. cap. 3. The Monarchy of the Grecians. ALexander the great, having one only Army, of two and thirty thousand footmen, 3630. and four thousand five hundred horsemen, marched thorough all Asia. In the seventh year of his Monarchy, he was poisoned in Babylon. Read his life, set down in Plutarch, and justine lib. 11. After his death, there grew dissension between the Captains and Macedonian Lords, who should be successor of this great Empire. At length it was resolved on the person of Arideus, surnamed Philip, the Brother of Alexander, & Perdiceas was created Captain General. Soon after, the Provinces and Governments were distributed among Alexander's Captains, who immediately appropriated them to themselves, each one enjoying the title and quality of a king. Thus this great Monarchy was divided into many parts and kingdoms: all which (nevertheless) were (in short while) reduced into three principal kingdoms, Macedon, Syria, and Egypt. Of Macedon, and the succession of Kings there reigning 3641. ARideus Phillippus, the Brother of Alexander, who had been elected successor, reigned in Macedon six years, governing wholly by Antipater, who managed all the affairs of the kingdom. This king was slain by Olympias the mother of Alexander. 3647. Cassander the Son of Antipater, after the death of Arideus invaded Macedon, having caused the Mother and wife of Alexander to be slain, Olympias and Roxana: he reigned eighteen years. 3665. Antipater and Alexander, the sons of Cassander, reigned together four years. Antipater slew his Mother. Alexander made war upon Antipater, calling Demetrius to his aid: who caused him to be slain. Demetrius, after the death of Alexander, reigned seven years. 3669. But having attempted to recover the Empire of his father Antigonus in Asia-min●r, which Seleucus then held: he was vanquished and taken by Seleucus, and died in prison. Antigonus, Gomathes, 3686. the Son of Demetrius, reigned afterward in Macedo●, for the space of 36. years, having recovered the kingdom, which (after his Father's death) had been invaded by many, that held it for the space of eight years. For Pyrrhus' King of the Epirotes, held it first. Lysimachus next took it from him, while he was seriously busied with the romans. Lysimachus being dead, Prosom●us Ceraunus invaded it: but in short while after, this Ptolemy was slain by the Gauges, who came into Macedon, and (by this means) Antigonus re-entered upon the kingdom of his Father. Demetrius, who reigned eight years, 3721. left his Son, named Philip, very young in years, and one Antigonus was made his Tutor or Governor, who marrying with the Mother of his Pupil, by that means made himself king. Antigonus Doson reigned twelve years. Aratus chief of the Achaean line, 3732 he called to his aid, against Cleomines King of the Lacedæmonians, who was vanquished by Antigonus, and took the City of Spar●●. Philip the son of Demetrius, reigned 44. years: 3742. and having made war against the romans, he was vanquished under the conduct of T. Quintus Flaminius, and all taken from him that he enjoyed, except the sole kingdom of Macedon: wherein succeeded Pers●us who reigned eleven years. 3786. He was vanquished and taken prisoner by Paulus Aemilius, Consul and Captain General of the romans, and led in triumph to Rome, the year of the cities building, 587. And then was Macedon reduced into the form of a Province. Of Syria, and the Succession of the Kings there reigning. 3653. AFter the death of Alexander the Great, Seleucus was the first king of Syria. Perdiccas' being dead, he regained the City of Babylon, & part of the Indias, Soon after, by the help of Ptolemy king of Egypt, he made war against Antigonus, who commanded in the lesser Asia: and having overcome him, laid claim to the kingdom, and was made King thereof, and in short time after, he joined all Asia-minor to Syria. Antigonus being slain in battle: And thus by him was established the great Empire of Syria. He vanquished also Lysimachus, and took from him the kingdom of Macedon. But soon after, he was slain by Ptolomeus Cerannus, having reigned 32. years in Syria. 3684. Antiochus Soter (that is to say, Saviour or Preserver) the Son of Seleucus, reigned 19 years, to whom succeeded. 37●3. Antiochus, surnamed Deos, that is to say God, who reigned 15. years. 3718. Seleucus Callinicus, the son of Antiochus, reigned twenty years. In his time, Arsaces' the Parthean, revolted from his obedience, & having vanquished many of his neighbouring Nations, he founded the kingdom of the Partheans, which afterward became most potent. Seleuchus, surnamed Cerannus, (that is to say, 3●3●. Lightning) reigned three years: And after him came Antiochus the great, who reigned 36. years. 3741 He was conquered by the Romans (under the Scipios conduct) in two fought battles: with whom (afterward) he made peace, on condition that he should leave the lesser Asia, from the mountain Taurus, to the Romans. After whom succeeded his son. Seleuchus Philopater, that is to say, A Lover of his Father, who reigned twelve years. 3●7● Antiochus Epiphanes (that is to say, Famous) who also was son to great Antiochus, 379●. reigned twelve years. This is the King that took jerusalem, and did so much harm to the jews, polluted and contaminated the Temple, and would constrain them to change their Religion. He put the seven brethren most cruelty to death, & made a most famous Martyrdom of them. His Army was vanquished by judas Machabeus, and after him, his son, Antiochus Eupator, reigned two years. 380● In which time, Demetrius the Son of Seleuchus Philopater (who had been given in Hostage to the Romans, for the peace of Antiochus the great, his Grandfather) being fled from Rome, & come into Syria; caused a great number of the people to revolt, that afterward delivered him into the hands of the said King Antiochus, who caused him immediately to be put to death. Demetrius Soter, after the death of Antiochus, 38●● reigned x. years. In this time, the jews were governed by the Maccabees. 3813. Alexander, the natural son of Antiochus Epiphanes, having gathered an Army, and being seized of some Cities in Syria, vanquished Demetriu, in battle, and slew him. This Alexander reigned five years. 3818. Demetrius Nicanor, the son of Demetrius Soler, came into Syria with an Army, and being aided by the King of Egypt, he invaded the kingdom. Alexander fled into Arabia, where he was slain: and Demetrius reigned two years. 3820. Antiochus Sedectes, the son of Alexander, (assisted by Triphon) expulsed Demetrius, and invaded the kingdom, which he held 3. years. 3823. Triphon slew Antiochus and possessed himself of Syria, where he reigned three years: Demetrius being yet living, who was (in short while after) taken by the Partheans. 3826. Antiochus, surnamed Soter and Pinus, Brother of Demetrius Nicanor vanquished Tryphon, who afterward was slain: And having reigned twelve years, he died in a battle against the Partheans. 3838. Demetrius Nicanor, who before had reigned two years, was let go by the Partheans, & reigned afterward four years more: But being overcome in battle by Alexander Zebin, he was slain. 3841. Alexander Zebin, whom the King of Egypt had sent to the Syrians complaining of the cruelty of Demetrius, reigned three years. 3844 Antiochus Grypus, the son of Demetrius, having vanquished and slain Alexander Zebin in battle, reigned 29. years. During which time, his Brother Antiochus the Cyzicenian, made war upon him, without intermission. After the death of this Antiochus Grypus, mighty troubles were in Syria for some time, because they of the royal race were in continual wars, killing and massacring one another. Until such time as one Antiochus (the sole remainder of that race) dying without any successor: Tigranes K. of Armenia invaded this great kingdom: whereupon. he was (not long after) surprised by the romans, under the conduct of Pompey, and the Country was then reduced into the form of a Province: the year of the City of Rome, 693. Of Egypt, and the Succession of the Kings there reigning. PTolomeus Lagus, 3641. Soter the most excellent man of all Alexander's Captains, was made King, & reigned forty years over Egypt: Theophrastus, Zeno, Theocritus, and Menander then living, and the romans made War against Pyrrhus. Read more of this King in justine, The kingdom of Scotland. lib. 13, 14, 15. Orosius lib. 3, cap. 23. Fergusius was the first king of Scotland. Ptolemy Philadelphus, reigned 38. years. 3682. He first appointed that great Library in Alexandria, and caused the Books of the Bible to be translated into the Greek tongue, by the seventy two Interpreters. Aristeus, Phalaris, Chrisyppus, Carneades, and Aratus then lived: and at Rome happened the first Punic war, Regulus. Ptolomey the Liberal, husband to his own Sister, ●●17. reigned 26. years. At Rome then grew the second Punic War: and then lived the Scipios, Fabius Maximus, and Marcellus. Hannibal was vanquished by Scipio Affricanus the eldest: And in this time lived the Author of the Book of Wisdom. 3743 Ptolomey the Parricide, reigned 17. years. He slew his Mother and his Sister, who also was his wife. At Rome began the war of Macedon, against King Philip; and the war of Asia, against the great Antiochus, and Hannibal the Fugitive. Then lived great Cato, Ennius, Nevius, Plautus, Panetius: And jesus the Son of Syrach, Author of the Book of Ecclesiasticus: Simon the Just being Bishop of the jews. 3760. Ptolomey Epiphanes, under the tutelage of the romans, reigned 24. years. The Brethren Macchabees did then valiantly withstand Antiochus, the most cruel Tyrant of Syria: his great repentance is to be read in the second Book of Macchabees, the ninth Chapter. 3784. Ptolomey, called Matricide, reigned 35. years. Paulus Aemilius having taken the Persian king, made Macedon a Province to the Romans. Then happened the third Punic War: The war of Achaia, and of Numantia in Spain, under Scipio Affricanus the younger, and Lelius, Terence then living. 3819. Ptolomey the Liberal, otherwise called Physcus, a very detestable man, being Brother to Ptolemy the Matricide, reigned nine & twenty years. He married his Brother's wife, and afterward her Daughter. The Sects of the pharisees, Sadduces, and Esseans then arose. Sects of the pharisees. At Rome was the servile war: And the laws for actions of the field by the Gracchis. Ptolomey Alexander, 3848. having expelled his brother Lathyrus, reigned seventeen years. Afterward he was thrust out himself by his own people, for the death of Cleopatra, a wicked woman. At Rome was the jugurthine war, pli. l. 2. ca 31 and three Suns visibly seen in this time. Functius doth attribute these seventeen years, and this reign, to Ptolomey Lathyrus, preferring him before Ptolomey Alexander. Ptolomey Lathyrus, being repealed to rule again, reigned eighteen years. 3865. At Rome was the Cimbrian war, Mithridates' war, and the civil war between Marius and Sylla. Then li- Lucullus, Antonius, and Crassus' Orators. War between Marius & Sylla Lucretius the Poet, Varro: Sylla dominéered cruelly, who retiring himself, to live solitarily in the fields: Flor. lib. 3. died of Vermine engendered in his own body. Ptolomey Aule●es, reigned thirty years. ●883. Being excluded by his own people, under Pompey's authority, he was reseated by Gabinius. Pompey overcame Hieras and Sertorius, the Pirates, as also Tigranes and Mithridates. Then was the conspiracy of Catiline; Caesar vanquished the ●aules: Cicero lived in exile: and Crassus was foiled by the Partheans. 3913. Ptolomey Dionysius, the last King, reigned 8. years: he caused great Pompey's head to be cut off. Then lived Catullus, Hortensius, Sallust, Diodorus Siculus, Cato Utican, M. Lepidus, Marcellus, and Mark Anthony. 3920. Cleopatra held the kingdom awhile with her Brother, and afterward (wholly by herself) two and twenty years: She, understanding that Mark Anthony was vanquished by Augustus, slew herself. Now was the civil war between Pompey and Caesar: Civil War between Caesar and Pompey. And that goodly Library, that contained two hundred thousand Volumes, was burned in this time. Plutarch in vit. Antoni. The Monarchy of the Caesars, or romans. 3918. IVlius Caesar, a very gracious Prince, and one of the World's chiefest Captains: reigned five years. He vanquished Pompey and his confederates: Ptolemy he slew, & restored Cleopatra his friend (Sister to Ptolemy) to the kingdom of Egypt. Returning home to Rome, he was slain in the Senate house, by Brutus, Cassius, and other Conspirators. Dioscorides then lived: but if you would have more of Caesar's life, read Suetonius & Florus, in the life of Caesar. 3923. Octavius Augustus, the last Nephew of julius, by the Sister's side, and his adopted Son, reigned 56. years: he was happy in war, moderate in peace, and liberal to every one. Then lived Virgil, Horace, Tibullus, Propertius, vitrvuius, Maecenas: And then died Cleopatra, and her husband Mark Anthony, Egypt being then reduced into a Province. Herod a stranger (favoured by Augustus) was then King of judea. So, the Sceptre being wholly taken from juda; jesus Christ, God and man, the Saviour of the world, was then borne of a Virgin in Bethlehem, according to the Prophecies of jacob, Genes. 49, Esay 7, Micheas 5. jesus Christ came in the year of Augustus forty two, and of the world, 3963. 3963. Ovid was then in exile: the City of Lions founded: and then lived Titus Livius, Valerius Maximus, Strabo: and Francus King of the Sicambrians, in the lower Allemaigne: Aquila, Tuberus, Galba, Labeus and Caius were then lawgivers, or lawmakers. Herod the great murderer of Innocents', and there were numbered then at Rome, four hundred, sixty four thousand men. Claudius' Tiberius, the Son of Livia, afterward Wife to Augustus, reigned 23. years, The years of Christ. beginning very well, but proving afterward to be most wicked. jesus Christ, for our salvation, was then crucified in Jerusalem, under Pilate the Provost of judea: he said, that A good Shepherd should clip his Sheep, and not devour them. C. Caligula, Son of Germanus, 17 a most wicked Man, reigned thirteen years. This beast, the ruin of men, made himself to be adored as God: he poisoned his Uncle Tiberius, and deflowered all his Sisters, leaving them then to others like abusing. 39 T. Claudius, Uncle of Caligula, and Monster of Men, reigned fourteen years. He preferred Nero before his own Son, by the treason of whom he was poisoned with a Mushroom. Messalina, his first wife peerless in all labricity and wickedness, then flourished: And Saint Peter the Apostle lived (reported to be the first Bishop of Rome:) then lived likewise Philo the jew, Perseus, Mela, Pliny the elder, and Columella. Saint Paul the Apostle went then thorough the World, proclaiming jesus Christ, accompanied with Saint Luke. Then lived Dionysius Areopagita: And then was the first Council of jerusalem. 43. Nero, the Son of Agrippina, afterward the Wife of Claudius, reigned thirteen years. He was the first Persecuter of the Church, and did put Saint Peter and Saint Paul to death: he slew likewise his Master Seneca, also his own Mother, and Lucan the Poet. Then lived Simon Magus, and Appolonius. Nero being erpulsed from Rome, slew himself: after he had set Rome on fire, to make himself pastime of a Bon fire. 57 Sergius Galba the seventh month of his Empire, was slain by Otho. Suetonius, Egesius, Lib. 4. Cap. 21. 70. M. Silvius Otho, he also most wickedly slew himself, in the third month of his Empire: confessing, that he had cruelly tormented the spirit of Galba. According to Suetonius, and Tacitus, Lib. 7. 71 Aulus Vitellius, brought up at Bourdeaus de Caprea, being a vicious Man and a glutton, was hewed in pieces, and cast into Tiber, having reigned eight months. He caused himself to be served at his Table, with two thousand several kinds of Fishes, and seven thousand of Fowls, all at one supper. Suetonius, Lib. 9 josephus, Lib. 5. de Bel. judas. Vespasian, a modest and gracious Prince, a lover of skilful men, and good Artisans, reigned ten years, accompanied with his Son Titus, 71. who ruinated jerusalem: josephus, Proclus, Epictetes. This ruin was the most lamentable that ever happened, for therein died 110000. men: read josephus in his six and seven Books of the jewish wars, and Egesippus. Titus, the delight and solace of mankind, 8●. reigned two years. He used to say, That no man ought to depart from a Prince, with a sad countenance: Casstus, Neracius, Proculeius and Pegasus were then Lawyers, and Saint Bartholomew was then martyred in India: Saint Mathias in judea: S. Andrew in Scythia: Saint Matthew in Aethyopia, Saint Thomas in Bragmania. Jerusalem was then taken: the Famine being so extreme, as Mothers were compelled to eat their own children. Domitian, Brother to Titus, 83. was a most wicked man, and persecuter of the Christians: he reigned fifteen years: then lived Martial, Iwenall, Statius, Trogus: and saint john wrote the Gospel, as also josephus did the Wars of the jews. Domitian would needs afterward be called God and Lord of his people, wherefore (being hated of all men) he was slain. 97. Nerua, a good Prince, and the adopted father of trajan, reigned one year: he gave more than an hundred thousand Crowns, to relieve poor Citizens. He took away extreme taxations, and (wanting money) he sold his garments, plate and Palace, esteeming his own Parents and kindred much less, than he did the public benefit. The Christians were in great quiet under him, and the banished repealed, among whom was S. john. trajan a good Emperor, but that he persecuted the Church: 99 reigned 19 years. Being admonished, that he was over gracious to all men, he answered: That he was such to his Subjects, as he could wish others should be to him, if he were a Subject. Then lived, S. Ignatius, S. Eustachius, Pliny the younger, Plutarch, Aulus Gellius, Suetonius, Tacitus Solinus. Aelius Adrianus, a man studious and skilful in all Sciences, 118. and the first Emperor that suffered a beard on his face, reigned 21. years: julius Celsus, julian, and Neracius Priscus, were Lawyers, & councillors to the Emperor. Then were living Ptolemy the great ginger, Phanorinus, Dionysius the Milesian, and Heliodorus. Jerusalem was repaired by Adrian, who therefore had his name changed, and was called Helias. Antoninus Pius, reigned 23. years. He was a Prince of such esteem, 139. as strange Nations would resort unto him, and make him judge of their differences; for he had always this saying ready: I had rather save one Citizen, A divine saying of a pagan. then kill a thousand Enemies. In this time were Polycarpus, Ireneus, justine Martyr, Egesippus, Appian, Florus, Macrobius, justine, Galen, and Palladius: Lucian the atheist, also was then torn with Dogs. This Emperor took away the wages or hire of strumpets, punished idle Magistrates, and was called Father of his country. Read Eutropius, Lib. 8. Thelesphorus the ninth Pope (as some report) did then institute, or rather restore the time of Lent. M. Antoninus, the Philosopher, 162. called Aurelius, borne in Gaul, with L. Commodus Verus, and called Brethren in the Books of the Pandectes) reigned 19 years. This good prince being unwilling to oppress his subjects, made sale of all his fairest and richest jewels, plate, & wearing garments belonging unto him and his wife. Eutrop. lib. 8. Lucius Aurelius Verus, governed the empire with his brother Marcus Antoninus, the space of eleven years: By some Authors he is set down in order before his brother, & by others after him. L. Commodus, 181. the most wicked son of good Antoninus, reigned 13. years. He was strangled by his Concubine, and other Conspirators. Eutrop. lib. 8. Orosius lib. 8. cap. 18. Lampridius doth most amply describe his life at large. Ae●ius Pertinax reigned six months. 194. He had refused the Empire, and being desirous to reform the government, he was slain by julian his successor; who bought the name of Caesar of the Warriors. The people much bemoaned this Prince, crying out aloud: O father of goodness; Father of the Senate; Father of all bounty: Farewell. 194. V. julian, reigned seven months, and being hated of all men, for slaying his predecessor, himself was also slain by appointment of the Senate. Dissension grew amongst the Christians, for the celebration of Easter; And the second Council appointed the day of Sunday, and five other after, Euseb. lib. 5, cap. 24. Metianus, S●euola, Martianus and Cassius, were now jurisconsultes: Aphrodiseus and Aphronius Sophysters. Pescennius Niger, or Nigerius, the son of Annius Fuscus, indifferently learned, fierce, proud, and inclined to all vice: was saluted as Emperor by the soldiers of Syria, where he commanded, 195. and was slain by Severus. L. Septim●us Severus, reigned 18. years. He was a Persecutor of the Church, but otherwise a valiant Prince, addicted both to good letters and Arms. He was so well beloved, and governed so nobly, that the Senate said of him: Either he should never have been borne, or else he deserved never to die. Read Sparta. and Vict. Then lived Origen, Tertullian, Philostrates the Sophister, and Apuleyus. Cl. Albinus, issued of the romans families, of the Posthumians and Albines, made himself Emperor in France. He was surprised by the Soldiers, and brought half alive to Soverus: where having his head smitten off, he was hanged on a gibbet, and being torn with dogs, he was thrown into the River. A. B. Caracalla, the son of Severus, 213. and husband to his stepmother, reigned seven years. He slew Geta his brother, and Papinian the great and famous Lawyer, with divers other. At last, himself was slain by a soldier of his Guard. Herod. lib. 4. Antoninus Geta, the son of Severus and julia, borne at Milaiu, After the Parthian war, wherein he won great favour, was called Caesar Antoninus, in the life time of his father. Op. Macrinus, with his son Diadumenus, 220. reigned one year. Both the one and other had their heads smitten off by their men of war. Macrinus was learned and severe, but (withal) detestable and crafty, causing his predecessor to be murdered. Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Heliogabalus, 221. the Bastard of Caracalla, who was a dishonest whore-hunter, and most abominable in life beside: gave great estates to wicked Bawds, Panders, jesters, etc. And being generally despised, he was slain by his soldiers, in the fourth year of his reign: both his own body and his mother's being dragged along the streets, and cast into the common laystall. Alexander Severus, reigned peaceably without effusion of blood 13. years. He was a good prince, ●2● and did utterly forbid the selling of Offices. Vlpianus, Paulus, Pomponius, Alphenens, Affricanus, Callistratus, and other excellent Civil Lawyers (the scholars of Papinian) then lived, with Dion the Historian, The kingdom of Persia and Philostratus The Kingdom of the Persians was then founded by Artaxerxes, and after transported to the Saracens, and now commanded by the Sophi. 238. Maximinus, a persecutor of the Christians, reigned three years. Being at first but a silly shepherd, he was made Emperor by the Soldiers (without authority of the Senate) and then by them slain. Gordianus, a Prince of a Noble spirit, with his son named Gordianus the younger, 241. a good Prince, reigned six years, and was slain by Philip his successor. In his time was a wonderful Eclipse of the Sun. Read I. Capitolinus, who placeth also Pupienus and Balbinus (created by the Senate) with Gordianus the elder. Pupienus Maximus, a new man, and son to a Smith, gave himself always to virtue and Military services, proving fortunate against the Polonyans and Germans. M. Caelius Babynus, and Pupienus after they had been Consuls, and that the Gordians were slain in Affryca, were created Emperors by appointment of the Senate, against Maximinus, and both of them were undeservedly slain. Gordianus the second, youngest son of Gordianus by his daughter, born at Rome: was slain in a sedition of soldiers, by Philip Perfect of the Pretorians. C. Valens Hostilianus, is not placed in this rank by some Historians, because immediately he died, smitten with the Pestilence, so that scarcely there remaineth any memory of him. Philip, an Arabian by Nation, 247. was the first Christian of the Caesars, and reigned five years. He gave (by his Testament) all his rights and treasures to Pope Fabian, And here began the riches of the Roman Church. He was likewise slain by his successor, as he had killed his Predecessor. Decius Triaan, a persecuter of the Christians, 252. reigned two years. S. Saturnine the Bishop was martyred at Tholouse. S. Laurence, Hippolita, Cecily, Agatha, and Appollina. Q. Herennius Hetruscus, is not by any Historian placed among the Emperors. Nevertheless, in this rank is his picture found, in the book of Hubert Goltzius, and there it is recorded of him, that he was the son of Decius, & that he was slain in Hungaria, in a Battle against the Goths. Vibius Gallus, with his son Volusianus, 254. reigned two years: Being persecutors of the Church, were both slain by the soldiers. At this time there was such a contagious pestilence, and almost so generally dispersed, that in many places, there was left no Creature living. This pestilence continued fifteen years, and seemed to be partly occasioned through the wicked government of this Emperor. Aemilianus Lybienus, borne in Mauritania, in his young years followed Arms, and soon after he was made Emperor. He was slain at Spoleta, being aged 40. years. 256. Licinius Valerianus, with his son Galen, persecuting the Church, reigned fifteen years. He was Captive to Sapor King of Persya, who used him as a footstool when he mounted on horseback. S. Cyprian and S. Cornelia, were then martyred. Porphirius wrote against the Christians: The thirty Tyrants usurped the Empire. Read Trebellius, Polyo, etc. S. Paul the first Hermit began the solitary life. Galen the son of Valerian, suffered the Christians to live in quiet, and reigned nine years alone, after that his father was led captive into Persia by Sapor. He was exceeding wise, but addicted to Lust. Saloninus Valerianus, the son of Galen, was slain with his Father, being retired to Milan, and was but ten years old. Cassius Labienus Posthumus, from being a simple soldier, attained to great dignities: and being in France was made Emperor in the time of Galen, where he was slain. 2●1. Flavius Claudius, (of whom issued the family of the Constantine's) a good Prince, of Noble lineage, and highly esteemed, reigned two years. Dyonisius being then Pope, divided the Dioceses and Parishes of the Christians. Tom. 1. de Concil. jamblicus, Plotinus, and Iuven●us priest, reduced the four Gospels into Hexameter verses. Aurelius quintilius, brother to Claudius, after the death of his brother was saluted as Emperor by the Senate, and slain 17. days after. Valerius Aurelianus, a cruel man, reigned six years. He tormented the Christians, 273. and repulsed the Franconians, entering out of Germany into Gaul. He was the first that wore an Imperial Crown: a lover of Military discipline, and one that rigorously punished the vices of his Soldiers. He vanquished Zenobia a very Warlike Lady, holding the Empire of the East. Tacitus was slain the sixth month of his empire. 279. This good Prince caused the books of Cornelius Tacitus to be received into all Libraries. The Manicheans began (from the time of Aurelianus) to infect the Church. Annius Florianus, brother to Tacitus, being desirous to reign, usurped the Empire as by inheritance: but in a short time, he was slain at Tharsus by his soldiers. Probus a good Prince, the Author of peace in the high and lower Germany or Almain, 279. reigned six years and four months. He said That he had no need of Warriors, having no enemies; and that the soldier (not doing any thing) ought not to eat up public provision. Carus, a good and wise Prince, 286. reigned two years, with his sons Carinus and Numerianus, two brethren of very different nature. The first, was most wicked, and full of cruelty: The other full of goodness, valour and knowledge. Then lived Volcatius, Herodian, Lampridius, Spartianus, Pollio, Vopiscus and Capitolinus Historians. 288. Dioclesian with Maximianus Herculius, reigned 20. years: he was a most cruel persecutor of the Christians, and would have himself to be worshipped. Katherine, Lucy, Agnes, Barbus, Sebastian, Vincent, Cosmo and Damian, and innumerable other Martyrs through the world (in his reign, to the number of 17. M.) were put to death in thirty days. Valerius Maximus, surnamed Herculius, a man of fierce and cruel nature, was very outrageous in lust, especially with his own Sisters: blockish in giving council, without civility and government, and therefore had Dioclesian to assist him in the Empire. 208. Constantius Chlorus, father of Constantine and Galerius, the one governed in the East, the other in the West four years together. Constantine commanded in Gaul, Spain, Africa and Italy: The other in Greece. Arnobius, Lactantius, Dorotheus bishop of tire, Eusebius and other Learned personages lived at this time. Galerius Maximianus, termed Armentarius, because he was a Neat-heards son, was made Emp. being a goodly person, & a fortunate warrior. Maximinus, nephew to Armentarius by his sister was Emp. & persecuted the Christians in the East. Severus Perfect of Italy and Africa, was published Emperor by Galerius, & fight with Maxentius▪ was taken at Ravenna and slain. Maxentius, elected Emperor by his soldiers reigned a Tyrant, and was like unto his Father Maximinus. Being vanquished by Constantine near to Pont-Miluius, he was drowned in a Gulf, and his body never after found. Licinius Licinianus, borne of Country Parents, was fortunate in the wars which he had against Maximinus. Afterward, he became a mocker of Christ, and persecuted such as believed in him; and because he was ignorant, he was a great enemy to all that were learned. Martinianus, was created Caesar by Licinius against Constantine, he was in his camp at night, but fled before next morning. Constantine the great, son of Helena an holy woman, with Maxentius and Licinius, 310. reigned 31. years. He was religious and affable, and transported the Bible into divers Countries. He assembled the Council of Nice, The Council of Nice. against Arrius the Heretic. He builded the City of Constantinople, calling it after his own name: whither the Imperial seat was translated, and changed from Rome into Greece, after he had granted Sylvester to be Pope. Euseb. lib. 10. Niceph. lib. 8. Crispus was made Caesar by his father Constantine, but being afterward falsely accused to his father, he was put to death, for that he would not consent to the inordinate appetite of Faustine his Stepmother. Constantine the second, 3●1. with his brethren reigned 17. years, joining thereto the three years reign of Magnentius. Themistius, Donatus, and Libanius the Sophister then ●iued: and S. Anthony the Eremite was known in Egypt by many miracles. 358. julian the Apostata, held the true Religion ten years, and was named Emperor by the men of war in Paris, against his will▪ He forbade the Christians the study of letters: and being wounded to death, he cried out: At length thou hast vanquished, O Galilean, S. Cyrill, Optatus, Basile, Nazianzen, Epiphanius, Hilary, Didimus, Exuperus· (all learned Divines) then flourished. 368. jovianus, a kind and learned man, reigned eight months, and made confession to his Warriors, of the name of jesus Christ. Now was the first order of Monks instituted by S. Basile, under certain rules of living. 368. Valentian, a good and Catholic Prince, and Valens his Brother, reigned fifteen years. This man held the error of the Arrians, and constrained the Monks to undertake Arms in war: he died unhappily. 381. Gratian, the son of Valentinian, during whose whole life time, he was an associate in the Empire. He reigned afterward with Valentinian the second, his younger Brother, and Theodosius six years. 387. Maximus termed Emperor by his Soldiers, slew Gratian, and held the Empire four years: after which time, Valentinian returned to the Empire again five years. Theodosius, after that Gratian was slain by Maximus, 395. reigned three years with his Brother Valentinian: the death of whom was bemoaned by Saint Ambrose, for the great zeal he had to Christian Religion. S. Hierome, S. Augustine, and P. Orosius then lived. Arcadius and Honorius, 399 the Sons of Theodosius, reigned twenty nine years, as well in the East as in the West. About this time, the great Empire of Rome began to decline (by the infidelity of Ruffinus and Stilico their Tutors.) The very greatest part thereof was used by the Scythians, Burgundians, lombards, Hungarians, Rome four times surprised. French, Goths, and Vandals: And Rome was four times taken by the Goths and Vandals, within a 139. years. Then lived S. Chrysostom and Claudian. Honorius reigned with Theodosius, 411. Son to his Brother, sixteen years. Theodosius the second, 427. youngest Son of Arcadius, reigned at Constantinople twenty seven years, after the death of Honorius; having afflited Valentinian the third, the Son of Constantius, and Placida Daughter is Theodosius, who reigned five years in the west. At this time, the Frenchmen leaving Franconia, began to enter upon the Gauls, under Clodion their second King. F. Valerius Martianus, reigned in the East seven years, ●53. and Valentinian the third (at the same time) in the west: during their reign, the Burgundians & other western Nations, were converted to the Faith. The Vandals came out of spain into Africa, and afterward they took Rome, under the conduct of their King Genserichus. Attila, King of the Huns, entered into Gaul with five hundred thousand men: delivered battle to Meroüeus their second king, who had joined with Aetius Lieutenant to the Emperor. There he lost an hundred and fourscore thousand men, & fled into Hungaria, not any man being wounded behind. About this time was great Arthur King of Britain. 460. Leo the first, reigned 17. years, associated by Leo the son of his daughter; who after he had reigned one year alone, gave up the Empire to 476. Zeno his Grandsire, who reigned tyrannically 17. years. The estate of the Church was then very greatly troubled, as also that of the Western Empire. Italy had then nine Emperors in twenty years, who all slew one another. 493. Anastasius reigned twenty five years: He was an Eutychian Heretic, was smitten with lightning, and died (as a just punishment) for his Heresy. Fulgentius. justine reigned 9 years: he was first a swineherd, 519. afterward a Cowherd, next a Carpenter, a Soldier, a Captain, and last of all Emperor, governing very well and godly, and expelling the Arrian Heretics. Then lived Boetius; and S. Bennet or Benedict began his order. 5●8. justinian reigned thirty eight years. All his care and study, was to repair the decayed Empire, and re-establish civil right: in the execution whereof, he was seconded by excellent personages, especially by Belfarius, Narses, and Tribonianus. The first chased the Vandals out of Africa, which they had held 95. years: and delivered Rome from the Goths, who had conquered it, and yet were once more expulsed thence by Narses. justine the second, reigned ten years, 566. beloved of all men for his liberality. Sophia his wife mocked him with Narses, the Governor of Italy, whereat he being offended, called the lombards, The kingdom of the lombards. by whose help he revenged himself. Now was the Kingdom of the lombards founded by Clebus, where reigned thirty two kings, until the time of Charles the Great. Tiberius' the second, reigned seven years: 577. he was a very charitable man, one that loved God and his Saints, and therefore (no doubt) was beloved of him again. Mauritius reigned twenty years: 584. he was descended of very mean Parentage, and (in the end) was murdered for his covetousness: a vice as much discommendable in a Prince, as liberality is beseeming, and maketh him renowned. Phocas reigned eight years: 604. And being the Murderer of his Predecessor, himself was likewise murdered, withal his Race. Contention for Primacy of the Church. Now was the contention for the Primacy of the Church, between Rome and Constantinople, and now was Saint Gregory. Heraclius reigned thirty years, 612. who was the Murderer of Phocas. The fifteenth year of his reign, began the rule of Mahomet, the false Prophet of Arabia, where were the Agarenes and Sarrazins: to whom the Egyptian and Arabian Princes (called Soldans) next succeeded. After them came the Turks, about the year 1300. Mahomet's false Doctrine (by the negligence of the Emperors and Christian Princes) grew to such a head: that it not only poisoned Asya and Africa, but also a very great part of Europe. 640. Constantine the third, reigned four months, being a good Prince, and very young: He was poisoned by his Stepmother that her son might reign. 641. Heraclion, who having his nose and tongue cut out, was banished two years after. 643. Constans, the Son of Constantine, reigned twenty seven years: And being very covetous, he was slain by his own followers, in the Baths of Syracuse. 670. Constantine the fourth, reigned 17. years. He overcame in one Battle, thirty thousand Saracens, and afterward fell to great wickedness. The learned and venerable Beda lived in this time. 687. justinian the second, a wicked man, reigned 16. years, but not without interruption, being dejected by Leontius, and Leontius by Tiberius Absimaris, who reigned other three years, therefore these three are said to reign sixteen years. The State of the Venetians, Now was the beginning of the Dukes of Vennice, which had been governed before (for the space of 230. years) by Tribunes. 713. Philip Bardasanes, reigned two years. He was cast out of his Empire by his Lieutenant, & after that, they plucked forth his eyes. He had much talk and little wisdom, disposing badly of the goods of the Empire: he became after a schismatical Monk. Anthemius, called also Athanasius the second, 715. reigned three years: He was dejected from his Empire by Theodosius chief of his Army, and turned into a Monastery. He had taken away the Empire, and then plucked out the eyes of his predecessor. Theodosius the third, reigned one year. 718 He left the Empire, seeing himself to be assailed by Leo his successor, and became a Monk. Leo the third, a wicked man, 719. reigned twenty four years. He was called Iconomachus, a defacer of Images, and would not suffer the Christians to have any in their Temples. He was excommunicated by Gregory, and by authority of a Council held at Rome, against his own of Constantinople. Blondus lib, 10. The Saracens besieged Constantinople three years together, in which time died three hundred thousand of Pestilence and Famine. Constantine, fifth of that name, 742. the son of Leo the Isaurian, succeeded his father in the Empire of Constantinople, the year of our salvation 742. He was surnamed Copronymus, because he would discharge his belly in the Fonts, appointed for Christian Baptism. He was an utter enemy, not only to the Images of Saints, but also unto their relics, causing them to be burned. He did put to death many of the best and most respected persons, and (among others) two patriarchs of Constantinople. He made war against the Bulgarians, both by land & Sea, Fortune sometime smiling upon him, otherwhiles ●owring. In his absence, one Artabasdus was made Emperor at Constantinople. But he receiving news thereof returned, and either put out, or rend forth the new Emperor's eyes, & caused his children to be slain. In his time, there was so cold a Winter, that the Sea of Constantinople was frozen. After many cruelties, this Emperor died a Leper. 743. Artabasdus, albeit he was descended of mean birth; yet notwithstanding, for the faithfulness, good virtues, and commendable qualities which were in him, he was liked of the Senate & soldiers, and afterward was elected Emperor by the zealous Christians, for the hatred that every one bare to Constantine the fifth. He became a better lover of the Saints, and fortified the City of Constantinople against Constantine, who had been expulsed thence. Nevertheless, both he and it were besieged, and the City being surprised, his eyes were plucked out, & his children put to death. 775. Leo the fourth, was Emperor after his Father Constantine the fifth. He was not only heir to the Empire, but also to his Father's vices: And his mother, who was devout and one that loved God, would give no consent that he should be Emperor. He made some attempts upon the Saracens that dwelled in Syria. He took the Crown which Mauritus had dedicated to God, and set it on his own head, it being very richly beautified with rich precious stones: But soon after he had an Impostume in his head, with a fiery Ague, whereof he died. Constantine, sixth of that name, and son to Leo the fourth, was Emperor after his Father: 780. He reigned nine years (very young) with his mother, who with his consent also, was persuaded by Therasius Patriarch of Constantinople, to call a general Council of three hundred and fifty Bishops. In short while after, Constantine excluded his Mother from the empires government. He caused the eyes and tongue of Nicephorus to be pulled and cut out, hearing of a secret intention, to make him Emperor. Also he did shut up in a Monastery his wife Mary, who was the daughter of King Charlemagne, and then took a Concubine, by the council of his Mother, who pretended that her son was hated of the people. Hereupon not long after, she caused him to be taken, and plucking forth his eyes, shut him up in prison, where he died, in the year 798. and then she reigned alone, about the space of five years. Irene, issued from Attica, 798 was wife to the emperor Leo the fourth, by whom he had Constantine the sixth before mentioned, and reigned with him nine years, and afterward alone by herself five years, or little more, as hath already been said. She was thence expelled by Nicophorus, & sent in exile to the Isle of Lesbos, which at this instant is called Mitiline. At the time when this Lady governed the Empire of Constantinople, Charlemagne was sacred and crowned Emperor of Rome (or of the West) for his virtues. A brief Collection of the History & lives of the Emperors of the West, from the time of King Charlemagne, who was the first Emperor in the West. 803. CHarlemaine, king of France, and the greatest Emperor (for all perfections) that ever was: The restorer of justice, equity and peace, among men, and re-establisher of Commonweals, with honest Laws, and Religious doctrine, The kingdom of England learned in languages and all disciplines: reigned King and Emperor 14. years. Gal. lib. 4. Emil. lib. 2. The Kingdom of England then began by King Egbert. Lewes' his son, surnamed (the Meek) or Debonair, 815. was likewise King and Emperor 26. years. He caused a Council to be held, wherein all Ecclesiastical persons were forbidden to wear any superfluous garments, jewels, and Rings. In revenge whereof, they provoked his sons to conspire against him two several times. 841. Lotharius his son, contended with his Brethren, Lewes Germanicus, and Charles the Bald. After a war no less great and sharp, then unhappy and lamentable, he remained Conqueror, and reigned fifteen years. Lewes, the second son of Lotharius, reigned 21 years: 8●6 he was at continual discord with his Uncle Charles the Bald, for the Kingdom of Austrasia. Charles the Bald, son to Lewes the Meek, 877. was Emperor and king of France, two years. Lewes the Stammerer, 879. was made Emperor by the means of Pope john the second: he died at Compeigne upon a good-friday. Charles the Gross, Emperor and k. of France, 880. who degenerated from the Noble race of Charlemagne, reigned ten years. Arnold, whose body was full of vermin, 891 by the just judgement of God, he being addicted to so many several rapines. He reigned 12. years. Lewes the third, or rather the fourth son of Arnold reigned x. years. 903 Some do hold that after Arnold, until the time of Otho, there was no true Emperor of Rome, but vacation of the empire, for the space of threescore years. Conrade, 913 being the last of the race of Charlemagne, reigned seven years. Henry the first, called the Falconer, who brought peace to all Germany, reigned 18. years. 910 He was expert in Arms, began the pence or small money among the Almains, and subdued the Vandals, who then received the Christ. faith. Otho his son reigned ●6. years. 938 It was said of him, that he made good proof, that he whom God will help, no man can harm, for he had innumerable enemies, and yet very easily he subdued them all. Otho the second, his son, too severe, reigned ten years. He reseated Nicephorus his Godfather Emperor of Greece, 974 after he had been driven out of his Empire. 984 Otho the third, reigned nineteen years: He was called (for his spirit) the wonder of the world. In his time began the institution of the Prince's Electors of the Empire, The beginning of the prince's Electors of germany. in the year 1002. This is the common opinion, which (nevertheless) the learned Onuphrius declareth to be erroneous, verifying by certain authorities, and testimonies of the Authors of times: that the Emperors (after this Otho) were elected, not by seven Princes: but in general, by voice of all the Archbishops, Bishops, Princes, Lords, and Gentlemen of Germany, and continued so till the time of Rodolphus the first, which was in the year 1280. And he saith, that it cannot be certainly gathered, at what time the seven Electors were instituted: not finding any one of the ancient Authors that speaks thereof. And yet notwithstanding, he is of the mind, that they were established, in the Interim of the interregnum and schism of the Empire, which continued twenty three years after the death of Frederick the second, which was in the year 1250. until the election of Rodolph of Haspurge. 1003 Henry of Bavaria the second, reigned twenty two years: He was a prudent and victorious Prince: and he expulsed the Sarrazins out of Italy. 1025 Conrade the second, reigned fifteen years. In this time the name of a Cardinal (as is said) came first in use. 1040. Henry the third, surnamed the Black, reigned 17. years, he laboured earnestly to take away the Schisms of the Church, happening by the plurality of the Popes: whereof he deposed three as unworthy, and ordained, that there should be no more created, without his permission. Henry the fourth, reigned fifty years. 1057. He was present in 62. battles, and great troubles happened between him and Gregory the seventh, touching the power to elect and confirm the Pope. The Kingdom of jerusalem. Then was jerusalem taken by Godfrey of Bullen, and the flower of Christendomes Nobility. Henry the fifth, reigned twenty years. 1107 He took Rome, and the Pope, who would not crown him, except he would ordain his election to be without the Emperor, The Kingdons' of Portugal, Naples, and Sicily. and contrary to the order of Henry the third. Now began the Kingdoms of Portugal, Naples, and Sicily. Lotharius the second, reigned 11. years, being very much respected for his great valour in war, 1127 his love to religion, & reparation of good laws, etc. Conrade the third, reigned fifteen years, 1138 a good Prince, and made war against the Sarrazins, with King Lewes the young. Frederick the first, called Barbarossa, a Prince addicted to hardiness, magnanimity, and justice, 1152 reigned 37. years. This is the man, upon whose overmuch humility, Pope Alexander the third declared the insolency of his Luciferian pride: in treading on the Emperor's back, and then he began to sing: Super Aspidem & Basiliscum ambulabis. Then lived Avicen, Averroes, & Mesuus, The Kingdom of the Tartars. Physicians: And Changius was first King of the Tartars. Henry the sixth, reigned ten years, a good Prince, 1190 he subdued the kingdom of Povilla or Apulia. 1100. Philip brother to Henry, a good Prince, reigned nine years. In his time began the Friar orders of Mendicants, or begging Friars, jacobins and Grey Friars. Ab. Vspergens. hist.. 1209. Otho the fourth, reigned four years. He came to the Empire by the means of Innocent the 3. and afterward lost it by his own occasion, being murdered in the end, as he had done his predecessor. 1212 Frederick the second, reigned 37. years, being both wise and magnanimous. He was expulsed the Empire, by the means of Pope Innocent the fourth. This Prince was the restorer of Astronomy, by help of the Almagist of Ptolemy. The factions of the Guelphs and Gibelines, now caused great harms in Italy. 1250. Conrade the fourth, reigned three years, a good Prince. He was excommunicated by Pope Innocent the fourth, according as (by him) his Father was deprived of his Empire. 1254 Willielmus, reigned two years, a good prince. Albertus' Maguus, Lullius and Alphonsus, King of Spain, were then great Astrologers. There was interregnum 17. years. 1273. Rodulphus reigned 19 years. He made Austria the Imperial seat, ordaining his son Albert first Duke there, of whom is the house of Austria desceaded. 1292 Adolphus reigned six years. He was expulsed for his vices, by the Prince's Electors, and slain afterward in war, by Albertus his successor. Albertus reigned ten years. 1299 Pope Boniface the eight, gave him the Realm of France, & the Papal chair was transferred to avignon, The first turkish Emp. 72. years. New was Ottoman the first Emperor of the Turks. Henry the seventh, reigned six years, 1309 a very grave and prudent Prince: But a jacobine friar (being suborned by a Florentine) poisoned him with the consecrated Host. Lewes of Bavaria, reigned 33. years. 1314 He used very great clemency towards his enemy and prisoner, Frederick of Austria, restoring him to his Dukedom. Now began the Sects of the Flagellanti or Whippers: Bartholomeus, Petrarch, and Boccace, then living. Charles the fourth, Author of the golden Bull, 1347 reigned 32. years; Dante then lived. Wenceslaus reigned 22. years, very carelessly. 1379 He was taken by his brother Sigismond, and put into prison at Vienna. They were both sons to Charles the fourth. Lithuania then received the Christian Faith. Robert or Rupert, reigned ten years: 1400 then lived Chrysolaras, Laurentius Valla, Poge the Florentine, and Tamburlaine the Tyrant of the Tartars, led an Army of a million of men. Sigismond reigned 27. years, 1411 a man renowned for wisdom and goodness. Then was the Council of Constance, wherein three pope's were deposed. john Hus, and Hierom of Prage, were then burned. 1438 Albertus' the second, reigned two years well and valiantly. He chased Amurath the Turk out of Hungary. 1440 Frederick the third, a lover of Peace, reigned 53. years. Then was Constantinople taken: The Art of Printing found out: Artillery more ancient 1380. Gaza, Victornius, Blondus, Aeneas Silvius, Platina, Bessarion, G. Trapezoncius, N. Perottus, Pomponius Laetus, H. Barbaxus, A. Politianus, I. Picus Mirandula, B. Mantuanus. Ph. Beroaldus. 1494 Maxmilian, a lover of virtuous men, reigned 27. years. He was valiant and learned, & could deliver his actions himself, in the Latin tongue. Then lived I Nauclerus, Volaterranus, G. Valla, Polydore Virgil, A. Sabellicus, I. Reuchlinus, jovianus, Pontanus, M. Ficinus, P. Crinitus, Amb. Calepinus, Trithenius, P. Bembus, and others. 1514 Charles the fifth, a most magnanimous prince, reigned 35. years. In his time happened marvelous mutinies in Germany, by Peazantes and Rustic people, of which were slain more than an hundred thousand, in less space than 3. Months. Beside these strange wars, there ensued civil dissensions likewise, about matters of religion. Erasmus, Io. Lud Vives, Luther, Munster, Camerarius, Fuctius, Latomus, Sadole●us, Pagninus, Eugubinus, Melancthon, Rhenanus, S. Grineus, Zozius, Oldendorp, Alciat, Zuinglius, Oecolampadius, and others then lived. 1558. Ferdinando, a Prince wise, vigilant, liberal, kind, and a lover of quietness: He made war upon the Turks in Hungary, for the space of 38. years, and laboured to accord the Christians, to the end that the enemy might be resisted by general consent. He reigned seven years: and then lived Gesner, Lycosthenes, Sturmius, Gualterus, Rivius, Pantaleon, Vadian, P. Constantinus, Functius, etc. Maxmilian, the second son of Ferdinand, 1564 was a good and prudent Prince, not dissolute in habits, but living soberly, having knowledge in many toogues, good judgement, speaking discreetly and sententiously, and inclined to receive all requests, as also to give liberally: Never curious of rich Cabinets, or sumptuous buildings. He reigned twelve years. Rodulphus the second, 1576. son to the most virtuous Prince Maxmilian, and reigning at this present. To whom God give grace, as to all other monarchs, Princes and Potentates, to do those things that become a Christian Prince, blessing him with good Council, faithful people, etc. Now come we again to the Emperors of the East. Nicephorus, who was kinsman to Irene, 803 got the Empire from her by craft, exiling her thence, as hath been before declared, and merely usurping the Empire of Constantinople. At his first entrance, every one had a singular good opinion of him, because they grew weary of a Woman's government. Nevertheless, he proved to be wicked, cruel and covetous, & therefore felt quickly his deserved punishment. For entering battle against the Bulgarians, he was discomfited and slain. His son Stauratius (whom he had made fellow Emperor with him) was likewise then sore wounded, and dismissed of the Empire with in three months after, by Michael Curopalates, who had married his sister Procopia. And so he was sent to finish his days in a Monastery. 804 Stauratius, the son of Nicephorus, a man deformed and misshapen, having also a simple spirit, was made companion and participant in the Empire with his Father: And yet notwithstanding, very soon after his Father's death, he was chased from his Empire, his hair being shaven off, and he enclosed in a Monastery, not reigning (after his father) above three months, or thereabout. 811 Michael Curopalates, otherwise called Rangabus, was Emperor after Nicephorus and his son Stauratius. This Emperor Michael was better skilled in the affairs of peace, policy, and justice, then in the action of war. For in his first battle against the Bulgarians, he fled away like unto a Coward, and hid himself in a Monastery, to which life he yielded himself, and quite forsook the Empire, as not willing to meddle any more, either with war, or the State of an Emperor. He, according as Nicephorus did the like, sent an Ambassador to Charlemagne, the new made Emperor of the west, to treat of peace and alliance with him. And it was agreed, that the Venetians should live according to their own Laws, Customs, and ancient liberties. Leo of Armenia, was Emperor of Constantinople, being the fifth of that name, 813 and the fourth after Charlemagne Emperor of the romans, who began with Nicephorus. He was Colonel of the warlike troops, belonging to the Emperor Michael Curopaletes, and aspiring to dominion, he raised a commotion, and so was made Emperor by the Soldiers. He being thus elected Emperor, entering into his Pallace-Royall, he caused the privy members of the Son of the said Emperor Michael, to be cut off, and then banished him. He Conquered the Bulgarians, recovered Thrace, took many of his enemies, reprehended their boldness, that had surprised Adrianapolis, and prepared also to besiege Constantinople. He would by no means suffer the Images of saints, but beat down and defaced them. Not long after, himself was taken and slain in a Church, as he was assisting Divine service, in the eight year of his Empire: his wife was bestowed in a Monastery, and his Children closely conveyed away. Michael the Stammerer or stutterer, 820 a wicked man, and murderer of the foresaid Leo, was after him made Emperor of Constantinople. He was descended of base and vile place, and there was one called Thomas, a man also of as base Birth, that sought to usurp the Empire, working so many disturbances thereto, that the Emperor being half in despair, commanded a great chain of iron to thwart the arm of the Sea, even from Constantinople, so far as Pera. But in the end, he took this Thomas, and caused his hands and feet to be cut off. At this time the Saracens surprised Candy, had two several victories over the Greeks, and Michael died of a flux in his belly. 829. Theophilus, son to Michael the Stammerer, was Emperor of Constantinople after his father. He was a good justicer, & well affected towards his Subjects: but he held the Images of Saints in great detestation, and severely punished all such as worshipped them, being (therein) his father's true follower. Two several times he gave battle to the Saracens, that wasted and spoils the Countries of Asia: And as many times was he foiled, losing there all his Tents and Pavilions. Amorium, a little village of the higher Phrygia, (being the place of his birth) was besieged, taken, and rifled by those Saracens. The Emperor grieved thereat so immeasurably, that he refused to eat, and would drink nothing but cold water: So falling into a dysentery, he died. 842. Theodora, after the decease of Theophilus her Husband, (as Tutoress or Guardian unto her son Michael, who was in his young years) governed the Empire of Constantinople very sufficiently, comforting the poor distressed Christians, and revoking home such as lived in exile, about the question of Images. She treated a peace with the King of Bulgaria, affiancing him unto her sister, whereby both he and his Subjects were converted to the Christian Religion. At length Michael being able to guide the reins of the Empire; his mother Theodora entered into Religion and left him to rule alone, in the year 856. 856 Michael the son of Theophilus, succeeded his father in his infancy, his mother and Governess Theodora, holding (for him) the Empire of Constantinople. But when Michael grew to greater strength, he took the charge of the Empire himself whereto his mother gladly consented. He more resembled his Grandfather, than his Father, both in negligence and prodigality, spending great riches which his wars brought him in. He was sometimes so addicted to the Circeiensian sports, as hardly he could be drawn from them. He made Basilius the Macedonian, his equal companion in the Empire, by whom he was soon after slain: having reigned eleven years, nine months, and five days, after that his mother Theodora had entered into Religion, which, with his former time of rule, completed 25. years, ten months, and fourtéen days. Basilius of Macedon, 867. who had slain the Emperor Michael, entered presently upon the empire of Constantinople, and was received and approved of all, in the Imperial Palace. When he was a young infant, he had been brought (among other captives) to Constantinople▪ to be there sold: Nevertheless, he was in the end Emperor, and Fortune so favoured him, that his children, and his children's children, were also Emperors after him. First of all, he caused those sums of money to be restored back again, which Michael his Predecessor had prodigally given away, and so they were delivered into the Treasury. He instituted his three sons heirs to the Empire. He had many battles against the Saracens, & still proved victorious. Many jews and Scythians (by his means) received the Christian faith: yet such was his hard hap, to be slain (in hunting) by a Hart, that ran his horns into his belly. 886 Leo, the sixth of that name, surnamed the Philosopher, began his reign in the year 886. first, with the help of the Turks, he vanquished the Bulgarians, who had revolted from him: but soon after, being abused by the Turks, thorough vain suggestions, he sustained great loss. Notwithstanding, he failed not to levy an Army against the Saracens, whereby (under the conduct of Nicetus) he brought away a triumphant Victory. He was very vigilant over the commonweal, and oftentimes would walk alone in the night, (disguised in habit) only to try his watches; who did beat him sound, and also carried him to prison, whom the next day he rewarded both with money and honours. 9●4. Alexander, brother to Leo the forenamed Emperor, succeeded him in the Empire. He was quite contrary in manners, both to Basilius his father, and Leo his brother, for he was of bad government, given wholly to his pleasures, and committed the charge of his State affairs, to Flatterers and jesters, who were his daily complices and companions, in all naughty and wicked actions. He died of a flux of blood, issuing from his Nose and privy-members, after he had gurmandized and excessively played at the Tennis. For, mounting (in an extreme heat) upon his horse, and violently stretching himself, he broke a vein, whereof he died. Constantine the seventh, son to Leo the sixth, 906 of whom we have already spoken, was at the age of seven years, left (by his father) under the care and charge of his mother Zoa. And he began to hold the Empire of Constantinople, after his forenamed Uncle Alexander, the year of our Salvation, 906. A certain man, named Romanus Lecapenus, made great resistance against him for space of 26. years, and purposed to deject him quite. But in the end, Lecapenus was seized by his own sons, and shut up into a Monastery, for he was the sole cause, that Zoa the mother of Constantine, was likewise made a recluse in a Monastery. Now, when the sons of Lecapenus had devised to do the like to Constantine, as they had done unto their father: the same stratagem happened to themselves, and they were enclosed in a Monastery. So Constantine recovered his Empire, which he governed alone very sufficiently; suppressing some Tyrants, and inducing divers Princes of the Turks to the Christian Faith. He made learning to shine in Greece, and left a Book unto his son, discoursing the affairs of the Empire, which the Venetians do yet keep as an especial jewel. He reigned fourtéen years with his mother Zoa, with Lecapenus 26. years, and about fifteen years alone, which was in all near 55. years. 920. Romanus Lecapenus, a man of base descent, wrought so much trouble to Constantine the seventh in his Empire, that he was constrained to receive him as companion in the Imperial dignity, in the year 920. and Constantine accepted his daughter Helena in marriage. But neither the sac●ed Oath which he had sworn unto him, nor yet the near alliance in kindred with Constantine, could restrain him from usurpation of the Empire, for himself and Christopher his son: but he sought to thrust Constantine wholly out of all. But he was deceived in his own disseigns, for, upon the bad success in war which he had against the Bulgarians, and Simeon their Duke, he was taken by his own sons, Stephen and Constantine▪ who despoiled him of his Empery, and carried him to a Monastery in a near neighbouring Island, there to pl●te the Philosopher alone by himself. Then, practising to work the like device upon Constantine Fortune turned her back towards them, and in the same snare which they laid for another, themselves were cunningly caught: for they were shut up within a Monastery, and so Constantine remained a peaceable Emperor. 959. Romanus, the young son of Constantine the 7. held the Empire of Constantinople after his Father. But he was governed under the disposition and order of Nicephorus Phocas. This Emperor Romanus, excluded his mother and his sisters: who, in grief and despite, that they should fall from so great pomp and estate, concluded to support the●r weak condition, by the worst means that could be, even the prostitution of their bodies. And as for him, he being addicted to sports and Epicurism, died poisoned. Nicephorus Phocas, ruled the Empire of Constantinople, in the year 963. 963 He fought often, & very fortunately against the Saracens, who usurpingly held Calabria Sicily, Cyprus, Candy and Cilicia, which at this day is called Caramania. In Sicily the affairs were not well managed, by his committees and Lieutenants: But concerning himself, he recovered Cilicia, and the greater part of Asia, for a good beginning: And soon after, he went powerfully upon Antioch, which he surprised in the night, and forced the Saracens to fly for refuge. This man was hated of all his Subjects, because that (under the colour of War which he then had) he laid great Imposts, exactions, and polings upon them. He caused also a corrupt kind of money to be forged, and diminished likewise the weight: by means whereof, being so out of favour with the Citizens, he was the easier slain sleeping in his chamber, by john Zimiscus, and Theophila, (wife to Nicephorus) gave favourable entrance to the murderer, and all the stranglers that were with him. john Zimiscus, the murderer of Nicephorus, was Emperor of Constantinople after him. He was a man valiant in war; ●6● he recovered all Bulgaria, which the Roxalians held, and Sphendollanus their king submitted himself unto him. But after this victory, being returned to Constantinople with triumph, he was poisoned. He made fellows with him in the Empire, Basilius and Constantine, brethren, who were sons to Romanus, the predecessor of Nicephorus Phocas. 976. Basilius the second, and Constantine the eight, being brethren, and sons to the young Romanus, were Emperors of Constantinople after john Zimiscus, in the year of Salvation 976. Barda Sclerus made civil war upon them, intending to usurp the Empire: but being foiled in the battle, he fled to the Persians. The like did Phocas, when he was overcome, and for the same cause: for, taking it in scorn to be misprized, after he had well declared his duty against Sclerus, he sought to make himself Emperor. Basilius (afterward) vanquished the Bulgarians in many battles, and as a punishment for their Rebellion, he caused the eyes of fifteen thousand Captives to be pulled out: reserving only but one of them, to guide the rest to Samuel their Duke. For they had overrun the Country of Thrace, Macedon, & Greece▪ and put all to fire and sword. Now was all Bulgaria subjecteth to the Empire of Constantinople, which till then had evermore been Rebellious. Duke Samuel lived not long after, but died with mere grèefe and vexation. Constantine was companion with his brother Basilius in the Empire, more in Honour then power: But after his death he was sole Emperor almost three years, and died swallowed up in his pleasures and vain voluptuousness. Romanus of Argyra, 1029 or (as he was commonly called) Argyropilus, kinsman to Constantine the eight, succeeded him in the Empire. At the beginning, he changed many bad matters into better: But being unable to make head against the Saracens, he gave his mind to gather a huge mass of money. Afterward, by the Treason of Zoa his wife, and her Adulterate companion: he was drowned as he bathed himself in his stove, or hothouse. Michael the Paphlagon, 1034. the Adulterate friend of Zoa the Empress, and who had suffocated her husband Argiropilus, bathing in his Stove: was by her made Emperor of Constantinople, in the year 1034. He had been a seruant-straunger, having his head very unfashionable, and every hour he was subject to the falling sickness, foaming at the mouth. In brief, whatsoever deserved any respect in him, only was, that he had a pleasing Complexion, which made Zoa extremely dote upon him, she being well stepped into age. Yet (for all this) he did not misgoverne the Empire, but took truce with the King of Egypt for thirty years. He delivered the City of Edessa, which was besieged, and was very benign to all them of his Court; except to Zoa, for the horrid lewdness he knew by her. At length, being full of the Dropsy, he appointed Michael Calaphates (the adopted son of his Wife Zoa) to be his immediate successor. 1●42. Michael Calaphates, the adopted son of Zoa, (after the death of Michael the P●phlagon) prostrated himself at her feet, swearing that he intended not to hold the Empire, but in name only; and that all the power should remain in her. By which flatteries & coined speeches, he was made Emperor of Constantinople, in the year 1042. Soon after, he laid a plot against Zoa, imposing falsely upon her, that she had devised to poison him: Whereupon, her head was shaven, and she commanded to a Monastery. But the People growing mutinous against him, made Theodora (sister to Zoa) Empress: repealed Zoa from the Monastery pursued Calaphates, and plucked out both his and his sons eyes. He was called Calaphates, because his father was a maker of ships, or a Ship wright. 1042 Zoa repealed from her exile and Monastery, by the people, was replaced in the Sovereign Estate of constantinople's empire, to enjoy the same with her sister Thedora, which was in the same year, when as Michael Caliphates had reigned but four months. Thus the bad government of Emperors raised an opinion, that the Empire might be better ruled by Women, then by men. But, as a woman is evermore variable and unconstant, according to the Poet's judgement: Even so Zoa (albeit she was a woman, and aged threescore years) did yet nevertheless, burn in carnal and voluptuous concupiscence. Whereupon, she recalled Constantine Monamachus from exile, and taking him to be her husband, made him Emperor. These two women having then held the Empire, scarcely three months. Constantine the ninth, surnamed Monamachus, 1042 who likewise being of the Imperial line & race; was made Emperor by his w●●e Zoa, at Constantinople, in the year 1042. He was very careless, and full of his own pleasures, and kept a beautiful Strumpet in stead of his Wife: nevertheless, he maintained and got the victory in two great civil wars, and some others beside. It was then that the Turks began to extend their powers very far in Asian and yet nothwithstanding, they were vanquished with the Roxalians, and Patzinaces, which were two Nations of the Scythians. Zoa died, being threescore and ten years old: and Constantine being full of the gout, having also a pleurisy, died thereof some few years after. Theodora, sister to Zoa, who had formerly held the Empire of Constantinople, 1055. as hath been already declared in our speaking of Zoa: entered upon the Empire's rule again, but alone by herself, after Constantine Monomachus, in the year 1055. and governed about two years. And we hold it no shame, to place her in the rank and number of the Emperors, considering, that she did not declare her authority in the Empire, with an effeminate or negligent spirit: But gave so good orders, and carried herself so manly, that she maintained peace and tranquillity, as well towards strangers, as among her own people. Moreover, all goodness and quietness so abundantly flourished in the time of her government: as no occasion can be alleged, neither will any man of wisdom misprize the Empire and Dominion of such a Woman. But as sickness (with age) did overcharge her, by the pleasing persuasions and remonstrances of her ordinary servants: she made partaker with her in the Empire's sway, a certain man (somewhat too aged) named Michael, and then she lived not long after. 1057 Michael, surnamed the Ancient, was Emperor of Constantinople after the said Theodora, and only by her means. He was renowned both for Noblity and riches: but in other affairs, concerning the support and charge of the Empire: he was very unapt, in regard of his many years, which made him burdenous and in-sufficient. And when he had scarcely ruled one year: Isaac Comnenes both dismissed, and deposed him from the State of the Empire. So living solitarily, and like a private man: he died soon after. Isaac Comnenes, was Emperor of Constantinople, in the year 1058. 1058 He dejected from the Empire, Michael the Ancient: nevertheless, he was a man, valiant and courageous, renowned for his actions both in peace and war, of great spirit, but somewhat arrogant. The Patriarch of Constantinople gave him good aid, in raising him to the Empire's Dignity: but he requited him very badly, for he banished him & all his friends. He was derived of a Noble race, diligent, ready and expeditious in all his business: But a disease in the side took him as he was hunting, which, growing to desperation of any long life, he made himself a monk, instituting as Emperor Constantine Ducas, with the good liking and consent of the Senate and people. It is written of him, that he was so chaste, that he would not accompany his wife after her first child: albeit his Physicians advised him thereto, for help and mitigation of his disease. Constantine the tenth, called also Ducas, 1060 was Emperor of Constantinople, after the forenamed Isaac, in the year 1060. At his first entrance there happened a great conspiracy against him, which he suppressed, but with very great difficulty. He was devout towards God, and a good justicer: but insatiable avarice disgraced him, for which, he was hated of his own people, and condemned by his enemies, who did much harm to the Empire. In his time happened a strange accident, and yet no novelty to Constantinople, that many Churches and houses were overthrown by an Earthquake. He died aged threescore years, leaving Eudoxia his wife, and three of his sons heirs to the Empire. Eudoxia and her sons held the Empire of Constantinople, 1067 after their father Constantine Ducas. This woman would have well governed the Empire's affairs, if wars had not much molested her abroad. As strangers (then) came rushing in on all sides of the Empire, so was it conceived by general opinion, that the ablest man that could be, had had his hands full, in a charge of such import. And yet at length, Eudoxia (contrary to her Oath and promise to her dying husband) having reigned seven months and some few o● days: remarried with Roman Diogenes, which match she dearly afterward repent, as being much wearied with the arrogancy of this man, who would needs govern all himself. 1068 Roman, surnamed Diogenes, took upon him the Empire of Constantinople, in the year 1068. He made war two several times, and in the first attempt, Fortune spoke him fair, but very unkindly in the second: for his people being one part slain, and the other driven to flight, himself left alone (albeit an Emperor) was taken: which accident had never been seen before, that the Emperor of Constantinople, was taken prisoner in war. And yet notwithstanding, it is said, that the Turk, Sultan Azan hearing those tidings, could not believe it, but stayed his iourn●y somewhat short of him. And then sending for him, he had no sooner seen him, but he held him in honour and estimation: and giving him great presents, sent him back again at liberty, after he had concluded a peace with him. But in this interim, all things were renversed at Constantinople, as it is a usual custom, so soon as unwelcome news are brought: For Eudoxia, was expulsed, Diogenes dismissed, and Michael de Constantine chosen Emperor: who first caused the eyes of Diogenes to be plucked out, and afterward banished him: in which miserable estate he died, and was fain to be buried by his wife Eudoxia. 1071. Michael, who was termed Parapinacius, in regard of the great Famine that happened in his time, was made Emperor of Constantinople in the year 1071. He was a man altogether unapt for so weighty a charge: for, being wholly addicted to his Book, and to compose verses with his Schoolmaster Psellus, the Turks assailed the Empire on all sides, especially on that part of Asya: Whereupon, his chief Commanders and Captains, (thorough mere constraint) made election of another Emperor over them, to wit; Nic●phorus ●otaniat who was the more easily accepted of the Citizens, because they held their negligent Emperor in high disdain & contempt. I understand that Michael was put into a Monastery, with his wife and son, and there he was made a Monk. Nicephorus Bataniat, who was descended of the line of the Emperor Phocas, 1078 easily (as being the very noblest of all other) obtained the Empire when Michael was expelled thence. He took Constantine, the son of Constantine Ducas, who would have usurped the Empire, & causing him to be shorn, advanced him to the order of priesthood. Afterward, Nicephorus himself was dejected by the brethren of Comnenes, (who before had assisted him in expelling the usurpers of the Empire) and was shut up in a Monastery, where he lived but a short while. Alexius Comnenes, the younger brother, but best beloved amongst the soldiers, held the empire after him, and on the very day of Easter entered Constantinople, which he spoilt as an enemy. 1081. Alexius Comnenes, Son of the Emperor Isaac, took on him the Empire of Constantinople, in the year 1081. He went with the Venetians against Robert Guiscard, but he was repulsed and vanquished. Moreover, he strove to hinder and break the memorable enterprise of the French, for the recovery of the Holy land. But Bohemond, Duke of Apulia, levied an Army against him, and besieged Baudras. Then Alexius, dreading his power, made composition with him, promising to furnish the French with victuals, and all other needful things. Afterward, he erected two goodly buildings, one for poor Orphans, and the other for a College. He was also very charitable to poor aged men, discreet and moderate in his manners, and not lightly induced to punish. He gave favour and support to all men of merit and virtue, exalting them to places of dignity. In the end, being overpressed with a long sickness, he died in the threescore and tenth year of his age. 1118. Caloian, Son to Alexius, held the Empire after his father, in the year 1118. He made many wars in Asia, vanquishing in divers Battles, both the Turks and Persians, taking sundry Cities from them. He was a contrary opposite to the Venetians and the French, who were then united: Notwithstanding, the Venetians took the Isles of Rhodes, Samos and Miteline. He died of the prick of a Dart, which himself had poisoned, smiting his hand (by chance) upon it, as he made offer with it against a wild Boar: He advanced all his own friends to dignities. Manuel, or Emanuel, brother, 1142 or (as some say) Son to Caloian, entered on the Empire of Constantinople after him, in the year 1142. He entreated Conrade Emperor of Rome, to lend him aid against Roger king of Sicily, who both troubled, and would have usurped the Empire, each after other, and likewise to assist him against the Turks, as thus his request severally pretended. But Manuel, having a contrary, and another kind of leaven hid in the dow, sent Conrades men where they were all famished. Nor did it suffice him to deal thus vilely with them, but he did as much to the men sent by Lewes (surnamed Gods gift) king of France. So that in a short while, so great a number of the French perished by falsehood and Treason, that the name of Manuel became odious among the French. Roger entered (in earnest) upon the Country of Greece, besieged Constantinople, and with a gallant bravado) culled many flowers of gold and silver, out of the Emperor's garden. Manuel offered outrage to an Ambassador of Venice, and (in one day, surprised all their Merchants, whom he had betrayed under the colour of peace: for which, the Venetians constrained him afterward, dearly to buy his own peace. He made war against the Turks, wherein he was almost taken: And after he had reigned eight and thirty years, he lived as a Monk, and died of a grievous disease. Alexius the son of Manuel, held the Empire after him, in the year 1180. 1180. under Andronicus, his coosin-germain, who then was his Tutor, afterward his companion in the empire, and at last his murderer, for secretly he caused his head to be cut off, and threw his body into the Sea, he being but fifteen years old. 1183 Andronicus Comnenes, the son of Isaake, entered on the empire of Constantinople, after his cousin german Alexius, whom cruelly he had caused to be murdered, in the year 1183. William, king of Sicily▪ made war upon him, to revenge the death of Alexius. And as he was assailed on all sides, Isaac, surnamed the Angel, (contrary to all opinion) came so suddenly upon him, that he not only foiled him, but dejected him from the empire, and having seized upon his person, he caused one of his eyes to be pulled out, and then set him upon an Ass, with his face backward, crowning him with a wreath of rotten Garlic or Onions, and holding the stalk of one of them in his hand, in stead of a Sceptre. In this order was he shown through the City of Constantitinople, men, women, and children, doing many injuries unto him, casting both dirt and filth in his face, smiting him also with stones and staves. In this manner being cruelly bruised and murdered, he was hanged up: when yet the women would not leave him so, but dismembered him into the smallest pieces. Isaac the Angel, took the empire on him after Andronicus, in the year 1185. 1185 He qualified the tyranny of many, and entertained magnificently Frederick Emperor of Rome, who passed into Syria. He redeemed (with a great sum of money) his younger brother Alexius, who (most unthankfully) bereft him, both of his eyes and Empire, because he seemed to favour the Venetians. He kept him likewise in prison, until that Alexius, the son of Isaac, (in despite of his uncles malice) by tears and fair entreats, obtained succour of the French and the Venetians, wherewith he delivered his Father: who very soon after died, having taken too much the fresh air, after his so long close imprisonment. Alexius the Angel, 1195. murderer of his Brother Isaac, held the Empire of Constantinople after him, in the year 1195. He was most wicked, & cruelly handled his elder brother, only to usurp the Empire. The like he would have done to his Nephew Alexius, who escaping from him, was carried by Sea into Dalmatia, where he found the Nobility of France, with Baldwin and the Venetians, whom he moved to war against his uncle, promising them thirty thousand marks of gold, and all kind of victuals, if his imprisoned father, or himself, might (by their means) regain the Empire. Hereupon, those valiant lords hoist sail towards Constantinople, and took it; having first broken the chain which thwarted the Sea. Alex●us, saved himself by flight, Isaac was delivered out of prison, who died soon after: and his son Alexius the younger, was elected Emperor. Alexius the younger, being son to Isaac, was seated in the Empire, in the year 1204. 1204 by an agreement made between him, and the French and Venetians. It is said, that then it was sought to have the Patriarch of Constantinople subject & inferior to the Pope of Rome: and that the Emperor should recompense the French and Venetians, for the damages which Manuel had done unto them. But scarcely was he entered into his government of the Empire, and employing his pains to accomplish his promises, when as Murziphilus (no Noble man, yet one whom he had advanced to great authority) killed him. And so this young and innocent Prince died by Treason. Murziphilus finding his sin much misliked, in the night time fled away, with his Wife, his strumpets, and treasure: yet, not long after, he was brought back again from Morea, as a Captive to Constantinople, where he died miserably. By this means, both the City and empire of Greece remained to the French, and Baldwine was the first Emperor of the French Nation. 1205 Baldwine Earl of Flanders, was after Alexius the younger, elected emperor of Constantinople, by all the warlike soldiers of Flaunders, as also the marquess of Montferrat, of Savoy, and of Venice, in the year 1205. Before this election, there was a condition thus determined: That if the emperor (who was to be elected) should be of the French, the Venetians should make a Patriarch; as it happened. Baldwine then recovered all that belonged to the Empire of Constantinople, except Adrianople: which Theodor, kinsman to Alexius the murderer, held as his wives dowry, and kept there his Empire. But as the French laid siege thereto, and were upon the very point of surprising it: Baldwine was there taken and put to death, having scarcely governed one year. Henry the brother of Baldwine, 1206 was made Emperor after him. He pursued the besieging and assault of Adrianople, but the Saracens coming to succour it, he retired to Constantinople, which then he strongly fortified. He made peace and alliance with the Vallachians, took their Duke's daughter in marriage, and (both far off, and at home) guided all affairs providently. He constituted William, (son to Boniface) K. of Thessaly, soon after his father's death, leaving his daughter jolanta as his heir, who was married unto Peter of Auxerre, that succeeded him in the Empire. Peter de Courtnay, or (to speak better) of France, being the youngest son of Lewes le gros, 1216. and Earl of Auxerre, (by the means and right of his wife jolanta, in regard that Henry had left no heir male) succeeded in the Empire of Constantinople, the year 1216. He returning to Rome after his Coronation, besieged Baudras, in favour of the Venetians: But it proved in vain, for at a gallant Banquet, he was beheaded by Theodor Lascarus, who called himself Emperor of Adrianople, and of the Grecians. This treachery was performed under the shadow of a feigned peace, with a faithful promise made upon a false Oath. Others say, that Lascarus had laid ambushes in the Forest of Thessaly, in the place called Tempe, and that he surprised Peter in such manner, shutting him up in Captivity, and that so he died. His wife jolanta during this his thraldom, held the Empire two years. 1220. Robert, son to the forenamed Peter, so soon as he heard the tidings of his father's hard adventure, departed presently from France, and went directly to Constantinople, where he was received as Emperor, in the year 1220. There he carried himself valiantly, until such time as he took to wife a young Lady, who was promised & troth-plighted to a Gentleman of Burgundy, that neither could or would endure such a shame. But he, boldly coming into the Palace, did cut off the Lady's nose, and threw her mother into the Sea, because she had been the procurer of this unjust marriage. To all which the Emperor durst not say one word, but went to Rome to receive the Crown: And returning thence not long after, with an intent to be revenged, he died of a strange disease in Achaia, 1228 Baldwine the second, son to the said Robert, succeeded his Father in the Empire of Constantinople, in the year 1228. But because he was over-young, Brennus' King of jerusalem (in title only) was sent from Italy, to be joined with him as his governor: whose daughter he married, making none account of the daughter of the king of Pontus, whereby great wars ensued. Baldwine, being but barely stored of money for these wars, and very hardly pressed: engaged his son to the Venetians, and to the King S. Lewes, a piece of the true Cross, as it was reported to be, and many precious Relics of the Church. So levying a great Army, he planted it at the entrance of the strait of Constantinople: But in the mean while (by secret intelligence) Michael Paleologus had gotten into the City. Then Baldwin flying thence, with the Patriarch, betook themselves to Negropont, dreading only the outward harms, while they within were ten times worse. Then did the greeks recover the Empire of Constantinople, which the French had held almost the space of threescore years. Michael Paleologus, 1239. having thus cunningly seized on the Empire, and got it into his own possession: held it still very manfully, for the space of two and twenty years. But he ran into his people's hatred, for making agreement with pope Gregory the tenth, in the Council at Lions, and acknowledging duty to him. After him, his son succeeded. Andronicus, who within a while after, 1261 took his son Michael to be his associate in the empire. But Michael being dead, his son Andronicus the younger, made war upon his grandfather Andronicus, and compelled him to accept him as companion with him in the Empire. Whereat the Emperor Andronicus conceived such inward dislike, that he soon after died, having reigned 43. years. Andronicus the younger, 1304. carried himself both wisely and valiantly in governing the Empire. He died of a burning Fever, having reigned 33. years, his son succeeding. 1341. john Cantacuzen, who was Schoolmaster to john Paleologus, and fellow also with him in the Empire's government, of whom more shallbe said in the life of john Paleologus. 1341 john Paleologus, called also Caloian, succeeded his father in the Empire of Constantinople, the year 1341. He being very young, had for his Tutor and companion in the Empire john Cantacuzen, who was expulsed by the seditious devices & sleights of a man of mean birth, but yet quick, dexterious, and full of courage, which made him the better accepted in Court: It is said also, that the ambition of the Patriarch of Constantinople, was thereto a great furtherance. But he being impatient at such an injury, made war for five years, against the mother of john Paleologus, and against john the said Emperor, and was the first man, that brought the Turks in Arms into Europe. At length, Constantinople yielded itself unto him, and when he took it, he did no wrong to any one, but carried himself as fellow Companion of the Empire, giving his daughter in marriage to the said Emperor john. Afterward, he made war upon the Genoese, speeding one while well, and another ill, having (nevertheless) with him the Venetians, and the men of Arragon. Then john Paleologus, who had been banished, made war upon him, being principally aided by the Turks, and to whom he gave first habitation in Europe: by which means, he cunningly entered Constantinople, in the year 1357. And then Cantacuzen (forsaking the Empire) entered into a monastery, and lived there as a Monk. But Matthew, his son, seeking to be Competitor with Paleologus, was constrained to desist. So Paleologus, having had the victory in divers wars, died in the year 1384. having reigned sixteen years with his Tutor Cantacuzen, and 27. years alone by himself, in all 43. years. After him was Emperor (for the space of three years) Andronicus the eldest son; who nevertheless is not set in the number of the Emperors. Manuel (by some called Emanuel) son to the said john Paleologus, 1387. held the Empire of Constantinople, in the year 1387. And the most remarkable matter in his life, was that he left seven sons: of which, john the eldest, succeeded in the Empire, in the year 1421. john, eldest son to Manuel, 1421. entered on the Empire after his father's decease. He being more addicted to peace and quietness, than War, gave his assistance in the Council at Ferrara, which was afterward transferred to Florence, Eugenius the fourth, then being Pope. As Emperor of the East, he was graciously welcomed by both the Churches, the Greek and Latin, which were then made one. Returning home to his Empire, he lived no long time after, but died, not leaving any posterity of him, in the year 1445. Constantine the eleventh, and son of Manuel, after the death of his brother john, 1445. held the Empire, called the Greek Empire, in the year, 1445. He having been King of Morea before, was called Draco, for the cruelty which he exercised against the Turks. But when Constantinople was taken by Mahomet the second, son to Amurath the second: Then, all trembling, and he retiring to a gate of the City, to escape by flight, was stifled to death, in the press and confusion of people, that likewise fled away, the 29. day of May, 1453. His head was carried on the point of a Lance, to be shown through the enemies camp in derision. And undoubtedly, it is a matter worthy note, as also of some marvel, that Constantinople, edified or re-edified, enriched, and exalted by Constantine the first, son to S. Helena, and after the manner of Rome: should under this Constantine the eleventh (having his mother to bear the same name of Helena likewise) be surprised, and kept under the power of the Turks, even to this instant. A brief History or summary of the Ottomans or Emperors of the Turks, for the space of three hundred years. ottoman, the son of Orthogules, was Emperor of the Turks, in the year of our Salvation 1300. 1300. He was the first of this Nation that carried this name; which he had, in regard of a Castle that he took in Galatia, And he was the first also, that renewed the glory and honour of his Nation. For these people had taken jerusalem, in the year 1008. but they were conquered by the Christians, under the conduct of Godfrey of Bullen, and those that then remained of the Turks, retired themselves to Nicaea, having (never after) any one K. of renown until this man; who made himself a Monarch, & hath the first place in the History of the Turks. He was but of mean descent, yet of great spirit, cunning, diligent, and ambitious: having evermore (in his heart) a desire to reign, and pondered upon all means, that thereto might best advance him. In this high disposition, he found Fortune very favourable to him: for he subdued the greater part of Bithynia, & took many forts near to the Pontic Sea. But his very greatest honour, was, the surprising of Sina, a City anciently called Sebastia. He died aged, in the first year of Philip de Valois, King of France, and Edward the third, King of England. 1328 Orcanes, Son to the said Ottoman, was Emperor of the Turks after his father. He would not alter a jot of this new authority, no more than his father did, and whom he far surpassed in Warlike actions. By his liberality and good carriage, he won the hearts of his people, pursuing on (very well) what his father had begun. By his industry, vigilancy, and providence, he won the Countries of Mysia, Lycaonia, Phrygia, and Caria, and took in War Prusya (which is now called Bursia) and which was the abode of the Kings of Bythinia, where he received a hurt, whereof he died, in the first year of the reign of Io. K. of France, Edward the third of England still reigning. He reigned 22. years, leaving Soliman and Amurath his sons and successors. 1348. Soliman, son of Orcanes, reigned 2. years after his Father. He made war upon the greeks passed from Asya into Europe▪ where he vanquished the Bulgarians, and took many places from them: especially in Thrace, he got the Cities of Adrianople and Philopolis. Some say that he died in his Father's life time, with a fall from his horse in hunting, and that (very soon after) his father died with grief. And this is the reason, why some do not set him in the rank of Turkish Emperors. Amurath, first of that name, 1350 and son to Orcanes, was Emperor of the Turks, in the year 1350. Good Fortune attended on him, as she did on his Grandfather, and on his own Father likewise: But he was as contrary to his grand father by the mother's side, as his father had been to his predecessor, who bereft him of a great part of Cilicia, by killing his son. Amurath (incited thereto by john Paleologus) sent twelve thousand Turks for service of the said Paleologus; which was the source and beginning of the ruin of Constantinople. For, being alured with the riches of Europe, to make another voyage, he passed (in the Genoese galleys) six thousand Turks, under colour of (yet) giving fresh succour to the Emperor of Constantinople, and to expel his enemies out of the Empire: But it was with full intention, to usurp Greece. So he crossed the arm of the Hellespont Sea to Abydos, seizing Calypolis, and other Cities. Afterward, with a very strong power, he set upon the Emperor himself, who no way doubted him: Then took he Servia and Bulgaria, whose Princes he foiled, coming in good manner against him. But one of the followers of Lazarus, Despote of Servia, in revenge of his masters death (slain in the fight) killed Amurath in the year 1378. Bajazeth, King or Emperor of the Turks, first of that name, 1378. after the death of Amurath his Father, slew his elder brother Solyman by Treason, and enjoyed the Empire of the Turks alone to himself. To revenge the death of his Father, he made war against Mark, Lord of Bulgaria, both vanquishing and killing him, and subduing beside a great part of his country. In short while after, he ran thorough the Countries of Hungaria, Albania, and Valachia, and doing great hurt unto them, took many Christians, whom he carried Prisoners into Thrace. In regard of most bold attempts in his Martial business (wherein he was both hot and sudden) he was called Bajazeth Hildrin, that is to say, heavens Lightning. He subdued almost all Greece, being assisted with the gifts and graces of Nature, both in body and mind. He besieged Constantinople, for the space of eight years, the Emperor whereof was gone into France, to require assistance, which was granted him. Nevertheless, Bajazeth had the victory over the French, Hungarians, Germans, servians, & Mysians, at once assembled against him. And so returning to Constantinople with a fresh besieging, and finding no means to preserve the Empire of Constantinople: suddenly Tamburlaine came against Bajazeth, and gave him battle on mount Stella, where Pompey fought with Mithridates. There did Tamburlaine conquer him, bound him in chains of gold, & placing him in a Cage of iron, led him in that manner through Asya and Syria. In which miserable estate Bajazeth died, and after his decease, we find that there was interregnum, until Mahomet one of his sons came. 1407. josuah or Cyriscelebes, whom some wrongly name Calapine, the eldest son of Bajazeth, after the foil of his Father, was defeated of Asya by Tamburlaine, & led Captive to Constantinople for the Emperor, as a singular prize. But he was used as the son of a Prince, and soon after (with great humanity in the Emp.) released, and sent home into Asya, where he recovered his Father's kingdom. After, when he had well re-established his forces, he stoutly resisted Sigismond King of Hungary, who came to assail him, and had won divers Provinces from him: presuming that the Turks could no way relieve him, after so great an overthrow given by Tamb. But Fortune spoke no friendlier to Sigismond, than she had formerly done to him, when he fought against Bajazeth at Nicopolis, his people being all larded with arrows before they could fall into order of battle. For the Horsemen turned bridle even at the first shock & noise of the Enemy, and Cyriscelebes remained conqueror, who was slain by his brother Mustapha, otherwise called mussulman, in the very flower of his age, the year 1407. Mustapha or mussulman, 1408 was Emperor of the Turks a very small time, for his brother Moses possessed himself of the State, and expelled him. Some, name this Mustapha, Orcanes the second; whom they term to be son and heir to josuah or Cyriscelebes, and that he was slain by Moses, his uncle by the father's side: but Moses quickly did suffer his deserved punishment. For losing both goods and life together, himself was also slain by his own brother Mahometh. There be that write, that this Mahometh reigned next after his father Bajazeth, making no mention of josuah, or Cyriscelebes, neither of Mustapha or Orcanes, nor of Moses: but after Bajazeth, do make his son Mahometh, presently to follow. 1409 Moses' was expulsed, and put to death by his brother Mustapha, or (as others say) his nephew Orcanes, and soon after, he was likewise slain by his brother Mahometh: And these two (by some) are not set in rank with the Turkish Emperors, because they are said to reign very little time, or not at all. 1409 Mahometh, first of that name, brother to josuah, Mustapha, and the forenamed Moses, is said (notwithstanding the rest) to be Emperor of the Turks, in the year 1409. There are some that do attribute only to this man, all those matters which are reported of josuah or Cyriscelebes. He over ran the Countries of the Bulgarians & Null, imposing great Tributes and Taxations upon them. Then he entered on the satraps of Asya, recovering all those places which Tamburlaine had taken. He chased out of Galatia, and the Countries of Pontus and Cappadocia, his own kindred and Allies, without extending any pity, to any Princes and Lords of his own blood: albeit it is true, that he left some in their own entire dwellings. Being returned into Greece, he came to Adrianople, (the Metropolitan City of Thrace) and there he constituted the seat of his Empire, expelling thence the Christians that had there any abiding. He died in the twelft year of his Empire, which is reckoned to be in the year 1418. leaving his son Amurath the second, to be his successor. Amurath the second, 1418 Son to the forenamed Mahometh, succeeded his Father in the Turkish Empire, in the year 1418. He (understanding the death of his father, and desiring to pass from Asya into Thrace) vanquished his Uncle Mustapha, to whom the Greeks gave favour and succour. He was the first, that (for the guard of his person) made election of Christian Renegadoes, to be his janissaries, by the power and courage of whom, both he and his successors have subdued almost the whole East. He assailed with his forces, and did great damages to the Countries of Hungaria, Bosnia, Albania, Valachia, & Greece. He took Thessalonica from the Venetians. He had victory against Ladislaus King of Poland, against the Cardinal julian, and against Huniades. He held the Empire or Kingdom of the Turks, for the space of 32. years, and then left it to Mahomet his Son. Mahomet the second, Emperor of the Turks, succeeded his Father Amurath in the year, 1450. 1450 He began his reign as an Homicide, causing his younger Brother to be murdered, because his father's body should not be buried alone. He was a most wicked and sinful man, not believing in any God. For he would say, that his Mahomet was a false Prophet, like unto himself, & made a mockery of the Saints, Prophets, and patriarchs. He won, and left the surname of Great, to the house of the Otthomans. He ruined the Empire of Constantinople, which he seized by assault the 29. day of May, 1453. as hath been already declared, in the report of the life of Constantine the eleventh; together, with the Empire of Trebisonde. He took twelve kingdoms, & two hundred Cities, from the Christians, in the year 1479. He besieged the Isle of Rhodes, which was then held by the knights of S. john of jerusalem, but his labour was in vain, for it was courageously defended by the said Knights, & their great master Peter d'Aubusson, or d'Ambois, a French man. At length, he died of the Colic, the fourth day after he sickened; having lived 58. years, & reigned one and thirty. 1481 Bajazeth, second of that name, and son to Mahomet the second, by means of the janissaries, was made Emperor of the Turks, in the year 1481. He conquered and expulsed Zizim, his younger brother, whom the chiefest Lords would have had to be Emperor: but he being fled for refuge to the Isle of Rhodes, the great master of the Knights, sent him to King Charles the eight. Bajazeth vanquished Caraman, and recovered all whatsoever he had gotten from the Turks, on either side of the Mount Taurus. He subdued Valachia, and so went on against the Sultan of Egypt, who was too strong for him: For, having received the fugitive Mamelukes, after the death of Caraman, and entertaining (besides) a great number of Arabes, for his defence, oftentimes he conquered and put Bajazeth to flight. Afterward, Bajazeth subjecteth the Inhabitants of the Ceraunian Mountains, and took from the Venetians Lepanto, Modon and Duraz. In the end, his youngest son Selim, who (by means of the janissaries) had gotten preferment before the eldest, and was declared to be Emperor in his father's life time: enforced him to flight, and afterward poisoned him, in the year 1512. at the very same time, when the battle of Ravenna was fought, under the happy reign of King Lewes the twelfth. Selim having expulsed, 1512. and after poisoned his Father, because he lived too long, was Emperor of the Turks, in the year 1512. To this parricide, he added the murder of his brethren Achmet and Corcuthus, and caused seven of his Nephews to be strangled, that were the Children of his brothers. He conquered and expelled the Sophi of Persya, and (in divers battles) discomfited the two Souldanes, Campson and Tomombeus, with the Mamelukes and Arabes. He added Egypt and Arabia to his Empire, and took the great Cayro. Then returning home to his country of Greece, an ulcer engendered in his Rains, which increasing continually like a Canker, procured his death, in the eight year of his reign, Anno 1519. Soliman, whom some term to be the second of that name, Emperor of the Turks, 1510 carried that name (as is said) because he very wisely provided for all affairs, whereunto the issue of them was also as correspondent. For this name of Soliman (by some transposed syllables) delivereth the name of Solomon, the most renowned King for Wisdom. There was not any before him, nor of the race of the Ottomans, more severe and valiant. For the deeds and wars of Soliman, came not one jot behind those of his Father: having recovered Syria, vanquished Gazel that was revolted, and surprised Belgrade and Rhodes; then afterward Buda two several times, and put to the worse the Army of Austria, that fled away before him. And near unto Buda, had the victory over Rokandolphe, who had a great Army. He vanquished the Spaniards at Castelnova in Dalmatia, and put to flight the Army by Sea, which seemed invincible. In the year 1543. 1543. he took Strigonia and Alba Regalis, two worthy Cities of Hungaria. He conquered the kingdoms of Assyria and Mesopotamia, with the City of Babylon, that might be compared with Memphis and Egypt, conquered by his Father. He overran and wasted the frontiers of Armenia, Medea and Persia, and twice took Tauris, the principal City of Persia, chase the Sophi (far off before him) into the mountains. For the rest, the Turks themselves do confess, that for 200. years before, they never had Lord that was a greater justicer, more sober, wise, and human, than he was. But this humanity ceased in him, when he caused his eldest son Mustapha to be strangled, to please his Concubine Rosa, who desired that her Son Selim might be Emperor after his Father. He was repulsed by the Emperor Charles the fifth, when he came (with a powerful Army) to besiege the City of Vienna in Austria. He besieged also the Isle of Malta, in the year 1565. 1565 whether the Knights of S. john of jerusalem had retired themselves, after the surprisal of Rhodes. But the Isle was manfully defended by their great master, being a Frenchman, named Peter Parisot, called also; le Valette, and Soliman was compelled to raise his siege. In the year 1566. He died in Hungary, at his siege before the Castle of Sighet, having reigned 47. years. Selim, second of that name, 1566. Emperor of the Turks, succeeded in the Empire (by the means of Bassa Mehemet) after the death of Soliman his Father in Hungary, which for a time was concealed, and he entered into possession of the Empire, before the death of his Father was discovered. He subdued Ainan in Arabia, and took the Isle of Cyprus, in the year 1571. 1571. In the end, he lost his Naval Army, in the battle of Lepanto, which he had against the Christians, in the very same year 1571. But soon after, he came upon them again, and then renewed peace with the Venetians and their Commonwealth. Afterward, he recovered Thunis & the Goulette, which the king of Spain had made use of in Africa: And he died in the year 1574. having reigned eight years. But all the forenamed memorable actions, were performed by his bashas, and not by himself: for he (all the while) took his pleasure, being greatly given to women and wine. Amurath, third of that name, 1574 and son to Selim, was created Emperor of the Turks, and enjoyed the Empire after his father's death, within eight days, in the year 1574. By a cruel and barbarous custom of the Country, he caused five Brethren of his own to be slain, and two Concubines of his Fathers, who were great with Child: to the end, that he might solely reign alone, without fear or suspicion, and so be avoided of all impeachments, which he well understood might ensue by parity, and such as should lay claim to the like Fortune. He began his government somewhat young, being aged but 28. years, being a wonderful lover of his paternal Mahometan Religion, a great justicer, and imitator of his Grandfather Soliman, He took some cities in Hungary and Sclavonie, which afterward were regained from him. Some say, that he was dull and lumpish of spirit, and fell (oftentimes) with the falling sickness, which made his face to look blemished, and of a leaden colour. He gave himself to women and great feeding, for he was the Father of 102. children, and yet became very gross and corpulent. He died in january, 1595. the 21. year of his reign, not having attained to fifty years of age. 1595. Mahometh the third, succeeded his Father Amurath the third, in the year 1595. And to show himself the son of his father, and no whit to degenerate from his Ancestors, he caused 19 of his brethren to be barbarously murdered, and many of his Father's Concubines to be drowned, that were found to be great with child after his decease, so that no child should remain, to trouble him in his government. But, as cruelty and barbarousness doth commonly dwell in a negligent sp●rit, addicted to sloth and pusillanimity: even so, did not he any thing deserving memory, he being wholly given to his body's voluptuousness. He did put to death his eldest son, and the mother of that son, because they had inquired of Astrologers, how long time he should reign. In the year 1603. the Sophi of Persya, regained Tauris and Bages, and those great countries, which the predecessors of this Mahometh had invaded, as hath been already declared, in our report of Selim the first, and Soliman the second. He died of the Plague at Constantinople, in january 1604. having reigned nine years. Achmet succeeded his father in the Empire, being but seaventéen years old, in the year 1604. 1604 In the year 1605. he took Strigonia, and some other places in the Kingdom of Hungaria. It is said, that (in his Army) he causeth his Father's dead body to be carried, embalmed and enclosed in a Coffin of Lead: holding opinion, that his military designs and exploits shall thereby prove the more fortunate. He hath made peace with the Emperor Rodulphus, and those of the house of Austria for fifteen years, which makes it therefore the more believed, that he will convert his forces against the Sophi. He now reigneth, this year 1611. and (by outward appearance) covets to be feared. A brief Discourse concerning the Sarrazins, the Original of their name, and what People they have been, even to this day. Having delivered a short Survey of the Turkish Ottomans, from their first King or Emperor to the man that now governeth: I thought it not impertinent to my purpose, to say somewhat also of the Saracens, who are held to be before them, and much more ancient than they. Nor list I here to call in question, those errors committed by Sabellicus, Blondus, the Tyrian Bishop, Volatteranus, & many other grave Authors, who (in their writings) do term the Mahumetists or Turks to be Saracens: for they never knew any such name, neither were at any time so called, but only Mulsulmen, Mulsulmen what it signifieth. which is as much to say, as, people faithful in the Law. Some others, who have thought their judgements to be much more pregnant, stick not to say: that this name of Sarazin▪ did come of Sarra, the wife of Abraham, of whose race the great Prophet Mahomet, (inventor and deviser of the Law or Religion, held at this present by the Saracens and Turks) they say was descended. But this opinion likewise is not receineable: for they desired rather to be called Agarians, in regard of Agar, handmaid to Sarra, Whence the Saracens der●●e their de cent. and mother of Ismaeli; or else Ismaelites, because they judged themselves to be issued of the said Ishmael, bastard son to the forenamed Abraham. But let us leave these false etymologies, which neither carry or yield any true likelihood, & come to the very Original of the name Sarazin. The error grew from hence, that some short while before Mahomet (or Muhamet, as others terms him) arose, and began to extend himself as well towards Suria as Persya: there lived then in the Rocky Arabia and Idumea, certain Arabes, who made their abode or dwelling (and yet do to this day) under small Tents or enclosures, and had not any other trade or maintenance for their living, but by thefts and robberies, Saracens were people dwelling in the desert of Arabia, and Idumea which they daily exercised upon all passengers, were they Turks, Christians, Pagans or whatsoever. Of which Robbers and thieves, the Country could never be freed, nor can be at this day: as such do faithfully affirm, who have travailed on pilgrimage to Mount Sinai in jerusalem. And the Turks themselves do confess, that when Devotion drew them forth on Pilgrimage, to the city of Medinat all Nabi, that is to say: the City of the Prophet, situate in Arabia foelix, where the Sepulchre of Mahomet is: and when likewise they do yet pass thorough the very greatest solitudes and deserts, as many times the Christians do: They find them to be peopled with these wicked kinds of thieves, as formerly hath been sa●●, who name themselves Sarracenis, not in regard of Religion or blood, but by an ancient appellation of the said people, of whom Ptolomey makes mention, and saith, that their living is in Idumea. Ami, Marcel, in vita Iul, Apost, lib, 14 Amianus Marcellinus, in the History of julian the Apostate Emperor, makes a description of them, and saith: that Those places (more than two hundred years before the Original of Mahomet, The antiquity of the Sarazin people or of his Alcoran) were fully furnished with the said Sarrazins: and Assyria afterward, even so far as the Cataracts of Nilus, or the kingdom of Prester john, where they used the same courses, violences & thefts upon merchants, and inhabitants of the neighbouring Countries, according as the Arabes or Alarbes do at this day. Whereupon, because that their chiefest habitation was in the Deserts and Mountains, which are in Arabia and the neighbouring quarsers or Countries, as Chaldaea, Assyria, Mesapotamia, Suria and Egypt, when the Arabes arose with their new Religion, and had frequented the foresaid Regions: the nearer Countries supposed that these people were those former Saracens, by ignorance of their Language, as also by rashness of some Writers, who lived then in Suria, and since that time in Spain, seeming to have good knowledge of those people, and therefore continually then called Saracens. Moreover to confirm that vain appellation, those Interpreters in Spain, ●rro● in translation of the Koran who (by commandment of S. Bernard) were appointed to interpret the Koran, in every place where they found the vocable Mulsulman, which is as much to say in the Arabian tongue, as, peaceable, and faithful towards God: they interpreted the same Sarraceni●, or Saracens. This Mulsulman then is the vocable, whereby all that believe in the Alcoran will be called; whether they be Arabes, Syrians, Persians, Tartars, Turks, or Moors. Whosoever then would enter into any peaceable and friendly conference with them, (albeit none do hate their name more than the Turks) must call them Mulsulmen, as we do ourselves Christians, or faithful people. So are they all named, by the Author of the Ishmael or Ismaelitish race, and by their Bastard Prophet. Saracens will be called Mul●ulmans After our manner, and in respect of Religion, they term a man Mulsulmam, and a woman Mulsulmina, or Mulsulminet: albeit some say Mussim, by a corrupt pronunciation. As we may well conceive by our own selves, who do use to call those disfigured wanderers, that walk among us with deformed faces, and long ill-favoured locks, using all subtle Thefts, pi●●eries, and legerdumaines they can devise, we nickname them to be Sarrazins, Egyptians, or Gypsies. I thus conclude then, What people are meant by the Saracens. that when Hystorians write, that the Sarrazins invaded and made use of Rhodes, next of Thrace, then of Italy, Spain, and other Countries: it is to be understood of the Oriental people and Africans, that were of the Mahometan Religion, because they used the self same cruelties, thefts, and robberies, as the Saracens of rocky Arabia did. And to speak truly, all Europe would (at this instant) have been haunted with those people, if they had not been formerly expelled and spoiled. It remaineth yet fresh in memory, that the great Grandfather to Philip king of Spain (not long since deceased) named Ferdinand, At what time the Saracens were expulsed out of Spain. expulsed them out of the Kingdom of Granado, with their king called Melen, and he bestowed six whole years together in stout wars, only in foiling them: And then the dominion, which the Saracens and Moors held in Spain, had final conclusion. After which time, those faith less Mahumetists durst never presume any more upon Spain, where they had held the Kingdom of Granado eight hundred years. A great slaughter of the Saracens in Spain. Before the said Ferdinand, king Alphonsus, in the year of our Lord 1233. slew in divers places above two hundred thousand of them, when they held strong forts and Cities in Spain, which he forced them to forsake, and since then have been utterly ruined. Henry the Emperor made another great massacre of them, Another in Italy. in the year of jesus Christ 1010. in Italy, expelling them wholly out of that Country. Among the Saracens▪ there were not only very generous persons: but likewise some men of great learning: as Avicen, Mesuus, Isaac, Mansor, Averroes, and many others. Now, as all things have their vicissitude, and alteration by courses: so after that the Saracens had reigned in Africa, and partly in Europe, for about the space of eight hundred years, there came a people from divers parts of Scythia, which at this day we call Turks, who in less than two hundred years, The Turks 〈◊〉 the Saracens. overcame in Arms those people called Saracens, with many other Christians beside, not only in Asya, but in Europe and Africa. And albeit that those Turks were of the same Religion, to wit, Mahumetists: yet did they not abstain from vexing and troubling them with war, even in like manner as they did the Christians. For in the year 1012. they took jerusalem and all judaea from them: but the Saracens of Egypt recovered them again, and held them for three hundred years after. Nevertheless, they were yet again dejected thence in the year 1517 by the Turks, the Saracens losing then not only Palestine, and the Holy-land, but likewise Egypt, Syria, Arabya, and the very same Country of Idumea, where as the Saracens had their original, and are there subject to the Turks now at this instant. For Campson their King, lost the day against Selim, Emperor of the Turks, and Tomombeus his successor, being next chosen to be King in his place, was taken, The Saracens last Ki. strangled. and afterward ignominiously strangled in the grand Cairo, the very principal City of Egypt, where we may behold the end of the Saracens, not any part of them now remaining, except such few, as are in the Turks servility. This short discourse gives us to understand, that Saracens were not all such as are called Mahumetists, but they that had their beginning in the Countries of Idumea, and the desert or rocky Arabia, and all those that (being joined with them) commanded under them in divers Countries, rendering other Nations subject to them by Arms. Vncill such time, as they were exterminate by the people, whose Countries they unjustly usurped, and planted their Religion by war: As also (at length) by the Turks, although they be of the same Religion. For war is maintained among them, for desire of sovereignty and ambition, even as well as among us that are Christians. ¶ A brief Collection of the Bishops and Popes of Rome, from the year 44. to this instant 1611. With the several Ages of the Church, since the Ascension of our blessed Saviour jesus Christ up into Heaven. The years of Grace. Our Lord jesus Christ, the Nazarite, God and man, Messias, Saviour of the world, Holy of holies, Sovereign and Eternal High Priest, head of the Church. 44. 1 Peter, called Cephas, borne in Bethsaida, the son of john, and first called of the Apostles, is said to hold his seat seven years at Antioch, and afterward at Rome, xxiv. years, under the Empire of Claudius and Nero, who caused him to be crucified in the same place. Simon Magus, being reputed to be the first Heretic, was then condemned by him. Then was the first Council holden at jerusalem, and then also was the first Persecution. 2 Linus, the son of Herculanus, 57 born at Volterra in Tuscan, was said to be the Disciple to S. Peter, and his coadjutor. He held the See, eleven years, five Months, and twelve days: And had his head smitten off under Nero. 3 Clement, the son of Romain Faustinus, 68 first Priest of the Roman Church, was designed by S. Peter his successor. He was banished to Pontus, and was drowned, having an Anchor fastened about his neck. He held the See, xii. Months, eleven days. Sede vacant, xiii. days. 4 Cletus, son to Emilianus the Roman, 77. was martyred under Domitian. He held the See, xii. years, one month, eleven days. Menander, Ebion and Cerinthus, were then Heretics: And the second Persecution. The first Age. IN this first Age, lived & wrote, Philo the jew, Dionysius Areopagita, josephus, and S. Ignatius. In this Age, were two several Persecutions of the Church: The first under Nero, & the second under Domitian. 5 Anacletus, 84. son to Autiochus the Athenian, a Priest of the Roman Church, was martyred under Nerua and trajan. He held the See, nine years, two months, ten days. Vacant, thirteen days. 6. Evaristus a Greek, Son of judas the Bethleemite jew: 96. was martyred under Trajan. He held the See, nine years, ten months, two days vacant nineteen. days. Saturnine, Basilides, and Isidorus Heretics lived then: And then was the third persecution. 7 Alexander, Son of Roman Alexander, was Martyred under trajan. 109 He held the See seven years, ten Months, two days, vacant xxv days. 117 8 Sixtus, Son of Roman Pastor, a Priest of the Roman Church●, was Martyred under Adrian, He held the See, ten years, three Months, and xxj. days. vacant four days. Then lived, Carpocrates, Epiphanes, and Prodicus, author of the Gnosticke Heretics. The fourth persecution. 127. 9 Telesphorus a Greek, son to Anachoretus, Priest of the Roman Church, was martyred under Adrian. He held the See, eleven years, three months, xxij. days. vac. four days. Aquila of Pontus, the Heretic, then lived. 10 Higinus a Greek, son to an Athenian Philosopher, 138. was Priest of the Roman Church, under the Empire of Antoninm. He held the see, 4. years, three months, four days. vac. 4. days. 242 11 Pius of Aquilea, son to Ruffinus, Priest of the Roman church under Antoninus: He disputed concerning the feast of Easter, at Laodicia. He held the See, nine years, three Months, four days. vacant four days. Then were heretics, Valentinus and his Disciples, Marcus, Secundus, Bassus, Colarbasus and Heracleo. 12 Anicetus a Syrian, the son of john, 153 martyred under the Emperor Antonius verus. He held the See, nine years, four months, xiii. days. vacant xvij. days. 13 Sother, son to Concordius, a Native of Fundi, under Verus. He held the See nine years, iij. months, two days, Vacant xxi. days. Then was Tatian, of whom came the Excratites, Severus and Ammonius Heretics. 14 Eleutherius of Nicopolis, son to Habundius, was Deacon of the Roman Church, 171 under Commodus. He held the See, xv. years, iij. months, two days, Vacant five days. Montanus the Phrygian, Author of the Cataphriges, Theod. Themist. Alexander and Symmachus Heretics then living. 15 Victor an African borne, 186 the Son of Foelix, under the Emperor Pertinax. He held the See ten years, three months ten days: vacant xxi. days. A Synod was then at Rome; some Counsels in Palestine, concerning Easter. Theodotus, Aesclapiodothus, Hermopilus, and Apollonides, were then Heretics. 16. Zephyrinus a Roman borne, 198 Son to Habundius, under Antonius Caracalla. He held the See seven years, seven months, ten days, vacant six days. 17. Calixtus, Son to Domitius a Roman, 218 was martyred under Aurelius Severus▪ He held the See six years, one month, ten days, Vacant vi. days. Then was the fifth persecution. The second Age. 2 In this second Age, lived justine the Philosopher and Martyr: Dionysius bishop of Corinth S. Policarpus, S. Ireneus; Clemens, Alexandrinus, and Tertullian. In which Age, were three persecutions: one under Trajan: the second under Marcus Antoninus, and the third under Severus. 223 18 Urban, Son to Pontianus a Roman, martyred under Alexander. He held the See four years, ten months, twelve days, vacant one month. 231 19 Pontianus a Roman borne, and son to Capurnius, died in exile in Sardignia, under Alexander. He held the See nine years, five months, two days, Vacant x. days. 236 20 Antherus a Greek by birth, son to Romulus, martyred under Maximinus. He held the See five years, one month, twelve days, Vacant xiii. days. Then was the sixth persecution. 237 21 Fabian a Roman, son to Fabius, under Maximinus. He held the See, fifteen years, eleven days, Vacant six days. Gordianus, Philip and Decius were then martyred. The Aelchefites, and Novatus chief of the Novatians, with some Arabian Heretics, were then. A Counsel was holden at Rome, against Novatus: The seventh persecution. 251 22 Cornelius a Roman, son to Castinus Priest of the Roman Church, and martyred under Decius and Gallus. He held the See two years, two months, three days: Vacant one month, and three days. Then was the Novatian Antipope, and first schism in the Church. Two Synods were held in Africa, against Novatian. The see being vacant, a Synod was held at Rome, concerning them that had denied the Faith. 23 Lucius a Roman, 253. and son to Porphirius, was martyred under Gallien and Valerian. He held the See three years, three months, iij. days, Vacant one month, v. days. Two counsels were held at Carthage, one concerning the doubt, whether Heretics ought to be rebaptized: and the other about baptizing of Infants. Two other Counsels were likewise in Asya, upon the doubt, whether Heretics were to be received, coming to resipiscence or knowledge of their error. Now was the eight Persecution. 24 Stephen a Roman, son to julius, 255 Archdeacon of the Roman Church, martyred under Valerian and Gallien. He held the See, 7. years, five Months, and ij. days. vacant xxij. days. A Synod was held in Africa, against Basilides and Martial, two renegade Bishops. 25 Sixtus the second, an Athenian borne, 257 son to a Philosopher, and martyred with S. Laurence, under Valerian and Gallien. He held the See two years, ten months, twenty-three. days: vacant one month, five days. Then were living Noëtus and Sabellius, Author of the Sabellian heresy, with the heretic Paul of Samosata. 26 Denis or Dionysius, a Monk under Claudius the Emperor. He held the See, six years, 260 two months, four days. vac. six days. Nepos the Heretic than renewed the Chiliastes, Two Synods were at Antioch, against Paul of Samo sata: And a Synod at Rome, for the cause of Denis of Corinth. 271. 27 Felix a Roman, son of Constantius, martyred under Aurelian: He held the see, 4. years, three months, xv. days. vacan. five days. The ninth Persecution. 275 28 Eutichianus, son to Maximus, & borne at Luna in Tuscan, martyred under Aurelian, Tacitus and Florian Emperors: He held the See, one year, one month, vacant eight days. Then was Manes, head of the Manichean Heretics. ●83 29 Caius, the son of Caius, borne at Salona, in Dalmatia, martyred under Carinus, Numerianus, Dioclesian and Maximianus Emperors. He held the See, eleven years, four Months, xii. days, vacant eleven days. 296 30 Marcellinus a Roman, son to Proiectus, martyred under Dioclesian and Maximianus. He held the See, six years, two months, xvi. days, Vacant seven years, seven months, and xxv. days. Then was the tenth and bloody Persecution: And a Synod holden at Sinüessa, for the cause of Pope Marcellinus. The third Age. 3 In this third Age flourished Origen, Minutius Foelix, S, Cyprian, S. Gregory, called the worker of miracles; Dionysius bishop of Alexandria, Victorinus, Bishop of Poicters, Arnobius, and S. Methodius Bishop of tire. In this age were five persecutions. The first under Maximinus, the second under Decius, the third under Valerianus and Gallien, the fourth under Aureliaws, and the fifth under Dioclesian. 31. Marcellus a Roman, 304 the Son of Bennet or Benedict, Priest, Cardinal of the Roman Church, under Constantine. He held the See six years, five months, three days, vacant xx. days. 32 Euscbius a Greek, son to a Physician, 310 under Constantine, He held the See four years, one month, three days, Vacant three days. 33 Miltiades or Melchiades an African, 311. Cardinal Priest of the Roman Church under Constantine. He held the See, four years, seven months, nine days, vacant xx, days. Then was the Schism of the Donatists in Africa: the Elibertine Synod in Spain; the Synod of Rome and of Carthage. 34. Sylvester a Roman, son to Ruffinus, 315 Cardinal Priest under Constantine. He held the See three and twenty years, ten months, eleven days, vacant fifteen days, Then were the Synods of Ancyra and Neocaesaria: The general Counsel of Nice, wherein Arrius was condemned, and the third Synod holden at Rome 35 Marcus a Roman, the son of Priscus, Cardinal Deacon under Constantine, 33● he held the See two years, eight months, twenty days, vacant twenty days. 336 36 julius a Roman, son of Rusticius, Cardinal Deacon under Constantine and his children. He held the See fifteen years, two months, ten days, Vacant, two days. Then were the Asterians, Anthropomorphites, Eusebians, Macedonians, Dulians, Luciferians, and Marcellian Heretics; with Photinus, Acacius and Aerius: The Synods of Rome, Cullen, Sardis, jerusalem and Alexandria. 353 37 Liberius a Roman, the son of Augustus, a Cardinal Deacon, was sent into exile under Constance. He held the See, twelve years, three months, four days: Vacant six days. Then was the persecution of the church by the Arrians, and second Schism between Liberius and Foelix. 355 38 Foelix the second, a Roman, and Son of Anastasius, a Cardinal Deacon: was created Pope in the life time of Liberius, under Constance and martyred by the faction of the Arrians. He held the See, one year, four months, two days. 39 Damasus a Portugese, son of Antonio, Cardinal Deacon, under Valentinian, Valens, Gratian, 366. Theodosius and Arcadius. He held the See ten years, three months, eleven days, Vacant xi. days. The third Schism between Damasus and Vrsicinus then happened, and Synods were held at Rome, in Spain, and at Valentia in France. As also the Ewomina, Entichian, Priscillianists, Apollonarian and Messalian Heretics. A general Counsel at Constantinople, against Macedonius. 40 Siricius a Roman, son of Tiburtius, 384 Cardinal Deacon under Arcadius and Honorius. He held the See fifteen years, eleven months, five and twenty days, vacant xx. days. Some Synods were then held at Carthage: helvidius, Dorotheus and Vigilantius heretics, were then. The fourth age. IN this fourth Age lived Lactantius, Eusebius of Caesaria, S. Athanasius, juvencus, Sa. Hilary Bishop of Poitiers, Optatus Bishop of Maltha, S. Basile, S. Gregory Nazianzen, S: Ambrose, S: Hierom, S: john Chrysostome, S: Epiphanius, S: Cyrill of jerusalem, and Martin Archbishop of Tours. 41 Anastasius a Roman, 398 son of Maximus Cardinal Priest under Honorius: he held the See three years, ten days, vacant xxi. days. Then were the synods of Cyprus and Toledo. 42 Innocentius a Native of Albania, 401. or Scotland, son of Innocentius, Cardinal Deacon under Honorius: he held the See fifteen years, two months, five & twenty days, vacant xxij. days. The heretics than were Arcadius, Theodosius, and Pelagius. 43 Zosimus of Cappadocia, son of Abraham, 416 Cardinal Priest under Theodosyus the younger: he held the See one year, iij. months, xii. days. vaca. xi. days. Then was the sixth synod of Carthage 410 44 Bonifacius a Roman, Son of jocundus, cardinal-priest under Theodosius: he held the See three years, eight months, ij. days, vacant, nine days. The Schism of Eulalius antipope. 45 Celestine a Roman, Son of Priscus, Cardinal-Deacon: 423 he held the See eight years, ten months, seaventéen days: vacant, 21. days. Then was the general Council of Ephesus, against Nestorius, under Theodosius. 432. 46 Sixtus the third, a Roman, and Son of Sixtus, cardinal-priest under Valentinian: he held the See 8. years, eighteen days. 4●0 47 Leo the Great, a Roman, son of Quinctian, Cardinal archdeacon under Theodosius: he held the see one year, one month, 13. days vacant, 8. days. Then was the general Council of Chalcedon, against Dioscorus and Eutichus. 461 48 Hillarius, borne in Sardignia, son of Crispinus, Cardinal-Deacon under the Empire of Leo. He held the See 7. years, three months ten days, vacant ten days. 49 Simplicius, a Native of Tivoli, son of Castinus, 467 or Castorius, under Leo, he held the see fifteen years, one month, seven days, vacant 26. days. 48● 50 Felix the third and younger, a Roman, son of Felix a Priest, Cardinal under Zeno. He held the see six years, eleven months, seventeen days, v●cante five days. 51 Gelasius an African, son of Valuerus Bisoppe, ¶ under the Empire of Anastasius: he held the See five years, eight months, seventeen days, vacant seven days. 52 Anaestasius the second, a Roman, 496 son of Peter, under Anastasius. He held the see 1. year, ten months, twenty four days, vacant four days. The fifth Age. IN this fifth age lived Saint Augustine, Orosius, Cassianus, Eucherius of Lions, Cyrillus Alexandrinus, Vicentius Lyrinensis, Socrates, Sozomenes, Theodoret, Prosper, Petrus Chrysologus, Saluianus Bishop of Marseillis, Sidonius Apollinaris, Gennadius, Petrus Diaconus, Boetius, and many others. 53 Symmachas, a Native of Sardignia, 498 Son of Fortunius, under Anastasius: he held the See fifteen years, six months, twenty two days, vacant seven days. Then was the fifth schism between Symmachus and Laurentius, who afterward was Bishop of Nocera. 54 Hormisda, borne in Terra di Lauoro, 514 or the Land of Labour, Son of justus, under Anastasius and justine: he held the see nine years, eighteen days, vacant six days. The Synods of Geronda, of Caesar-Augustus, and of Constantinople. 55 john, a Native of Tuscan, 523 Son of Constantius, cardinal-priest under justine: He died in Prison at Ravenna, having then been taken by Theodoric king of the Goths; he held the See two years, eight months, eight & twenty days, vacant one month. 526 56 Foelix the fourth, a Samnite borne, son of Castorius, Cardinal Priest of S: Sylvester, under justine and justinian: he held the See four years, two months, three days, vacant thirteen days. The second synod of Toledo. 5●0 57 Boniface the second, a Roman, son of Sigultus, Cardinal Priest of S. Cecily, under justinian: he held the See two years, two days, vacant two months. The sixth schism between Boniface and Dioscorus. Three synods holden at Rome. 530 58 john the second, surnamed Mercurius, a Roman, son of Proiectus, Cardinal Priest of S: Clement under justinian: he held the See two years, four months, vacant six days. 534 59 Agapetus a Roman, son of Gordianus, Cardinal Archdeacon of the Roman Church under justinian: he held the See eleven Months, nineteen dries, vacant one month, xxix. days. A synod holden at Constantinople. 535 60 ●●●uerius, borne in Terra di Lauoro, son of Pope ●ormisda, subdeacon of the Roman church under justinian: he held the See one year, five months, twelve days, vacant six days. Then he was expulsed and banished into the Isle Pontia, where he died. The second synod of Orleans. 537 61 Vigilius a Roman, son of john that had 〈…〉 Deacon of the Roman Church under justinian. He held the See eighteen years, six months, six and twenty days, vacant three months, five days. The seventh Schism between Silverius and Vigilius, and the fift General Counsel of Constantinople against the Origenists. Also the third Synod of Orleans. 62 Pelagius a Roman, son of john Vlearianus, Archdeacon of the Roman Church, 553 under justinian: he held the See six years, ten months, eight and twenty days, vacant, three months, and six and twenty days. Two Synods at Paris. 63 john the third, Catelline a Roman, son of Anastasyus, under justinian and justine: 561 he held the See twelve years, eleven months, six and twenty days, vacant ten months, three days. Then began the lombards to reign in Italy. 64 Bennet Bonosus, a Roman, 575 son of Boniface, under justine, and Tiberius Constantine: he held the See four years, one month, eight & twenty days, vacant two months, ten days. 65 Pelagius the second, a Roman, 579 son of Vinigildus, under Tiberius and Mauritius: he held the See ten years, two months, ten days, vacant ten months, x. days. The Patriar-chate of Aquilea was then transferred to Grada. 66 Gregory surnamed the Great, 590 a Roman Monk, and Doctor of the Church, son to Gordianus the Senator, and Syluia a most holy woman, Archdeacon of the Roman Church, Legate or Agent for the holy see, at Constantinople towards the Emperor, called also the Apostle of the English, under Tiberius, Mauritius, and Phocas, he held the see thirteen years, six months, ten days, vacant five months, nine days. The sixth Age. IN this sixth Age flourished Cassiodorus, Bennet Abbat, Fortunatus Bishop of Poitiers, Euagrius, Michael Syngelus, Gregory of Tours, and others. 604 67 Sabinianus, borne in Tuscanie, son of Bonus, Cardinal-Deacon, and Legate to the Emperor Phoeas at Constantinople. He held the see, 1. year, 5 months, 9 days, vacant 11. months 26. days. 605 68 Boniface the third, a Roman, son of john, cardinal-priest under Phocas. He held the See nine months, vacant one month nine days. 606 69 Boniface the fourth, borne at Maersia in Lombardy, son of john a Physician, cardinal-priest under Phocas and Heraclius. He held the see six years, eight months, thirteen days, vacant seven months, fifteen days. 613 70 Deus-dedit, a Roman, son of Stephen Subdeacon, cardinal-priest under Heraclius. He held the see three years, three months, 20 days, vacant one month, 16. days. The Synod of Auxerre. 617 71 Boniface the fifth, borne at Naples, son of john, under Heraclius. He held the see five years, twenty days, vacant thirteen days. 622 72 Honorius, borne in Terra di Lauoro, son of Petronius, that had been Consul under Heraclius. He held the See twelve years, eleven months, sixteen days, vacant one year, seven months, thirteen days. The four and five synods of Toledo. 73 Severinus a Roman, son of Labienus, 637 under Heraclius: he held the see one year, 2. months vacant four months 29. days. 74 john the fourth, borne in Dalmatia son of Venantius the Scholastic, 639. Cardinal-Deacon under Heraclius: he held the see one year, nine months, nine days, vacant four months 13. days, the sixth synod of Toledo. 75 Theodorus a Grecian, 647 son of Theodorus the Bishop, under Constantine and Constans, he held the see six years, five months, 18. days, vacant one month 22. days. A synod at Rome, and three in Africa. 76 Martin a Tudertine, son of Fabritius, 647 under Constans, by whom he was banished (for the faith) to Gersonna in the Isle of Pontus, where he died: he held the see six years, one month, 26. days, vacant one year, two months. A synod at Romo, another in Spain, against the Monotholites. 77 Eugenius a Roman, son of Rufinianus, 654 under Constans. He held the see two years, nine months, vacant four months fifteen days: synod eight of Toledo. 78 Vitalian a Latin, son of Anastasius, 657 under Constans and Constantine: he held the see 14. years, six months, vacant one year, one month, 8. days. A synod at chaalon's, & of Toledo 9 and 10 672 79 Adeodatus a Roman Monk, son of iovinianus, Cardinal Priest under Constantine: he held the See four years, two months, v. days, vacant four months, twenty days. Synods then at Hertford in England, Toledo the xi. and at Bracharensys the third. 676 80. Domnio or Domnus, a Roman, son of Mauritius under Constantine: he held the See, five years, five months, ten days, vacant two months, sixteen days. 679 81 Agatho, borne at Palermo in Sicily, a monk, and son of Pannonius, Cardinal Priest under Constantine: he held the See two years, six months, fifteen days, vacant one year, five months. Then was the sixth general Counsel of Constantinople against the Monotholites. 682 82 Leo the second, a Sicillian, son of Paul, Cardinal Priest under Constantine: he held the See one year, vacant eleven months, xxi. days. The xiii. Synod of Toledo. 684 83 Bennet the second, a Roman, and son of john, Cardinal Priest under Constantine: he held the See ten months, twelve days, vacant, two months, fifteen days. 685 84 john the fifth, borne at Antioch in Syria, son of Cyriacus, Cardinal Archdeacon under Constantine and justinian: he held the See one year, vacant two months, nineteen days. The seventh and eight Schism between john the fifth, and two antipopes, Peter and Theodor. 68● 85 Cuno, or Conon, a Native in Thrace, son of Bennet, Cardinal Priest under justinian: he held the See eleven months, three days, vacant, two months, three and twenty days. 86 Sergius borne at Antioch, 687 son of Tiberius' Cardinal Priest under justinian, Leontius, and Tiberius: he held the See thirteen years, eight months, and three and twenty days: vacant one month, xx. days. The ninth Schism, between Sergius, Theodor, and Paschall. Three Synods at Toledo. The seventh Age. IN this seventh Age, lived S. Isidore the bishop, Georgius Alexandrinus, Andoemus Bishop of Roven, julianus archbishop of Toledo, and others. 87 john the sixth a Greek, son of Paturnus, 701. or Patronus, or Petronius, under Tiberius: he held the See three years, three months, vacant one month, nineteen days. A Synod in England. 88 john the seventh, a Greek also, son of Plato, Cardinal Deacon under Tiberius, 705 and justinian: he held the See two years, seven months, seventeen days, vacant three months. 89 Sysinnius, a Syrian, son of john, 707. under justinian. He held the See xx. days, vacant one month, eighteen days. 90 Constantine a Syrian, son of john, 707 under justinian and Phillippicus: he held the See seven years, twenty days, vacant two months, ten days. A Synod holden at London in England. 91 Gregory the second, a Roman, son of Marcellus, Cardinal Deacon under Anastasius, 716. Theodosius and Leo: he held the See xvi, years, nine months, eleven days, vacant one month. A Synod holden at Rome, about Images, & another synod at Moguntia or Mentz in Allemaign. 731. 92 Gregory the third, a Syrian, son of john, Cardinal priest under Leo Isauricus. He held the See, x. years, ix. months, xxiv. days, Vacant viii days. A synod at Augusta, under Bonifaco. 741 93 Zacharias a Greek, son of Polycronius, Monk and Cardinal, Priest under Constantine Copronymus: He held the see, x. years, iij. months, Vacant xii. days. Synods at Rome, & in France. 752. 94 Stephen the second, Cardinal Priest under Constantine. He held the See three days. 752 95 Stephen the third, a Roman, son of Constantine, Cardinal Deacon under Constantine and Leo. He held the See v. years, one month, vacant one month. 757. 96 Paul a Roman, son of Constantine, and brother to Stephen the third Pope, Cardinal Deacon under Constantine and Leo. He held the See x. years, x. months, Vacant one month, the tenth schism between Paul and Theophylact: synods in Bavaria, and in Allemayne. 567 97 Constantine the second Duke Nepesius son, being a Lay-man, was created pope perforce. But he was afterward shut up in a Monastery, after that they had plucked out his eyes. He held the See, four months, iij. days vacant, ix. days. The eleventh schism was between him and Philip. 668 98 Stephen the fourth, a Sicilian Monk, the son of Olibryus, Cardinal Priest under Constantine, and Leo. He held the See, 4, years, v. months, xxiv. days, Vacant, ix. days. A synod was at Rome, to take order for ensuing schisms, and another synod was holden at Worms. 99 Adrian a Roman of a most noble family, 772 and son to Theod●r, Cardinal Deacon under Leo the fourth. & Constantine his son. He held the See twenty-three. years, x. months, xvi. days. Then was the seventh general Nicene counsel, against the Iconomaches: and after that Didier was taken, then ended the reign of the Lombard's. 100 Leo the third, a Roman, son of Azzupius, 796 cardinal Priest under Constantine, 8. and Nicephorus: he held the See twenty years first, and reseated xvi. years. v. months, xviij. days, vacant xvij. days. In this Leos time, was Charles the Great, king of France, created Emperor of the West, to whom he fled for refuge. The eighth Age. IN this eight age lived the learned venerable Bede, S. john Damascene, German Partriark of Constantinople, Paulus Diaconus, Vsuardus, and Paulinus of Aquileia. 101 Stephen the fifth, a Roman, 816 son of Inlius Marinus, cardinal Priest under Lewes the meek Emperor: he held the See six months, four and twenty days, Vacant xi. days. 102 Paschall a Roman, Monk and Abbot, 817 son of Maximus Bonosus, cardinal Priest under Lewes and Lotharius. He held the See seven years, three months, seventeen days, vacant four days. 824 103 Eugenius the second (surnamed the poors Father) a Roman, son of Boëmond, Cardinal Archpriest under Lewes and Lotharius: he held the See four years, six months, four & twenty days, vacant three days. The xii. Schism between Eugenius and Zinzinus. 827 104 Valentine a Roman, son of Leontius, Cardinal Archpriest under the same Emperors, he held the See one month, ten days, vacant three days. 827 105 Gregory the fourth, a Roman, son of john, Cardinal Priest under Lewes and Lotharius. He held the See sixteen years, vacant fifteen days. Two Synods in Allemayne. 844 106 Sergius the second, a Roman, son of Sergius, Cardinal Archpriest, under Lotharius: he held the See three years, vacant two months, fifteen days. 847 107 Leo the fourth, a Roman Monk, son of Rodolphus, Cardinal Priest under Lotharius and Lewes the younger: he held the See, eight years, three months, six days, vacant fifteen days. The Synod of Mentz under Rabanus. 855 108 * This is the man that supplies the place for Pope joan. Bennet the third, a Roman, son of Peter, Cardinal Priest under Lewes the younger, he held the See two years, six months, ix. days, vacant fifteen days. The xiii. Schism between Bennet and Anastasius. 858 109 Nicholas the Great, son of Theodor, Cardinal Priest under Lewes. He held the See nine years, seven months, thirteen days, vacant seven months. 110 Adrian the second, a Roman, 859. son of Talarus the bishop, Cardinal Priest under Lewes. He held the See five years, nine months, twelve days: vacant twelve days. The eight general counsel at Constantinople, against Photius. 111 john the eight, a Romain▪ 872 son of Gundus Cardinal Archdeacon under Lewes the younger, Charles the Bald, Lewes the Stammerer, and Charles le Gros. He held the See x. years, two days, vacant two days. 112 Martin the second, 882. otherwise called Marine, borne in Tuscan, son of Palumbas, Cardinal Deacon under Charles le Gros: He held the See one year, five months. 113 Adrian the third, a Roman, 884 otherwise called Agapetus, son of Bennet, under Charles le Gros: He held the See, two years, two months, vacant xii. days. 114 Stephen the sixth, otherwise called Basile, 885. son of Adrian, under Charles le Gros and Arnould: he held the See six years, eleven days, vacant five days. A Synod at Cullen. 115 Formosus of Portua, son to Leo, 891 Bishop of Portua, under Arnould. He held the See, five years, six months, Vacant two months. This is the first man, that (of a bishop) was made Pope. The xiv. Schism, between Formosus and Sergius the third, who afterward was Pope. 116 Boniface the sixth, a Roman, son of Adrian, bishop under Arnould, or Arnulphus Emperor: He held the See, six and twenty days, Vacant fourteen days. 896 117 Stephen the seventh, a Roman, Son of john the Priest, bishop of Anagnia, under Arnulphus. He held the See one year, 3. months, vacant 3. days. A synod at Tiburtium. 118 Romanus, borne in Tuscany, Son of Constantine, 897 who was Brother to Martin the second Pope, under Arnulphus: he held the see three days, vacant eight days. 119 Theodorus the second, a Roman, son of Photius, 897 under the Empire of Arnulphus: he held the see twenty days, vacant eleven days. 897. 120 john the ninth, a Tiburtine Monk, son of Remp●aldus, Deacon of the Roman Church, under Arnulphus, and during the Schism of Sergius. He held the See two years, fifteen days, vacant nine days. The ninth Age. IN this ninth Age lived Aymonius Monachus, Theophilact, Rabanus Maurus, Ansegisius, & Anastasius. 899 121 Bennet the fourth, a Roman, son of Mammolus, under Lewes the fourth, son of Arnulphus: he held the see three years, four months, Vacant six days. 122 Leo the fifth, borne at Ardea; he forsook the Papacy, 903 and became a Monk, under Lewes the fourth. He held the See one month, ten days. 123 Christopher, a Roman, son of Leo, 903 cardinal-priest under Lewes the fourth. He gave over his dignity to Sergius the third, & made himself a Monk. He held the see, seven months. The xv. Schism between Leo the fifth, Christopher and Sergius the third. 124 Sergius the third, a Roman, 903 Son of Bennet, one of the Earls of Tusculum, cardinal-priest under Lewes the fourth. He held the see seven years, four months, six days, vacant seven. days. Two Synods at Rheimes. 125 Anastasius the third, a Roman, 911. Son of Lucian, under the Empire of Conrade, Emperor. He held the see two years, vacant two days. 126 Lando, a Sabine borne, son of T●i●nus, 913 under Conrade. He held the See six months, xxi. days, Vacant xxvi. days. 127 john the tenth of Ravenna, son of john: 914 Of Bishop of Bolognia, he was made Archbishop of Ravenna, under Conrade and Henry, surnamed the Byrder, Emperors: he held the see, thirteen years, two months, and thirteen days. 128 Leo the sixth, a Roman, 928 son of Christopher, under the forenamed Henry: he held the See seven months, fifteen days, vacant one month. 129 Stephen the eight, a Roman, 928 Son of Teudemunde, under Henry: he held the See, two years, and one month, vacant ten days. 130 john the xi. a Roman, 930 the natural son of Sergius, third Pope, one of the Earls of Tusculum, under Henry: He held the See, four years, ten months fifteen days, vacant twelve days. 935 131 Leo, the seventh, a Roman, under Otho the Great, who was the first Allemayne Emperor. He held the See three years, six months, ten days, vacant three days. 939 132 Stephen the ninth a Roman, under the Empire of Otho: he held the See three years, foure-months, twelve days, vacant ten days. 942 133 Martin the third, whom some others do term Marine the second, a Roman, under Otho. He held the See three years, four moneth●, twelve days, Vacant twelve days: A Synod at Bonnonie▪ 134 Agapetus the second, a Roman, under Otho: 946. he held the See seven years, nine months, ten days. vacant twelve days. Then was the Ingelheimensian Synod. 956 135 john the twelfth, a Roman, called also Octavian, the son of Albericus a Roman Prince, & an Earl of Tusculum, Cardinal Deacon under Otho: having was deposed in a Synod at Rome: he held the See ix. years, three months five days, vacant one day. 963 136 Leo, a Roman, son of john, under Otho: he held the See, one year, four months. The xvi. Schism after john the 12. between Leo the 8. and Bennet the 5. 964 137 Bennet the fifth, a Roman, Cardinal Deacon, was elected in the schism after the death of john the twelfth: he forsook the Papacy, by constraint, and was exiled to Hamborough in Saxony, where he died: he held the See one year, six months. 138 john the xiii. a Roman, son of john the Bishop: he was bishop of Naruia, 965 under Otho: He held the See six years, eleven months, five days, vacant xiii. days. 139 Domnus the second, Donus, or Domnio, a Roman under Otho: he held the See one year, 972 vacant two days. 140 Bennet the sixth, a Roman, son of Hildebrand, under Otho: he held the see eight years, 972 six months, vacant five days. 141 Boniface the seventh, a Roman, 974. son of Franco-Ferrutius, Cardinal Deacon under Otho the second: he held the See seven months, five days, vacant twenty days. The seventeenth Schism between Boniface the 7. and Bennet the 7. 142 Bennet the seventh, a Roman, 975 son of Deus-dedit an Earl of Tusculum, bishop of Sutrium, under Otho the second: he held the See eight years, six months, Vacant, five days. 143 john the fourteenth, called also Peter, 984 born in Pavia, and Bishop of the place where he was borne; under Otho the third: he held the See, three months. 144 john the xv. a Roman, 985 son of Leo Priest under Otho the third: he held the See eight months, vacant seven days. 145 john xvi. a Roman, son of Robert, 995 under Otho the third: he held the See ten years, six months, ten days: vacant six days. 995 146 Gregory the fifth, a Saxon Allemayne, called Bruno, the son of Otho, under Otho 3: he held the see two years, five months, ten days. The xviij. Schism, between this Gregory, and john the xvij. This is he, in whose time the Prince's Electors were first created in Allemaign or Germany. 998 147 Sylvester the second, a Frenchman born in Aquitain, called Gerebert, Monk of S. Flower, Abbot of Bobie, of archbishop of Rheimes, he was made archbishop of Ravenna, a very great Philosopher, under Otho 3. He held the see, four years, i month, x. days, vacant twenty-three. days. 1003 148 john the xvij. a Roman, called Sicco, of very mean descent, under Henry the second. He held the See ten months, vacant twenty days. The tenth Age. IN this tenth Age lived Ado of Vienna, Odo Abbot of Clugnie, Suidas, Luitprandius, Regino, and Wirichinde. 1003 149 john the xviij. a Roman, called Fasanus or Fanassus, under Henry the second: he held the See four months, twenty days, Vacant nineteen days, A great synod holden in Allemaign. 1009 150 Sergius the fourth, a Roman, called Peter, the son of Martin: he held the See, two y●●res, and fifteen days, Seed vacant eight days. 1012 151 Bennet the eight, a Roman, son of Gregogory Earl of Tusculum under Henry. He held the See, eleven years, one month, thirteen days. The nineteen Schism, between Bennet, and one whose name is not truly known. 152 john the nineteen, a Roman, 1024 and Earl of Tus●ulum, son to Gregory, and Brother to Bennet the eight. Pope, bishop of Portua: he held the see four years, four months, vacant nineteen. days. 153 Bennet the ninth, a Roman, Earl of Tusculum, called Theophilact, Son of Albericus, 1032. Brother to Bennet the 8, and john the nineteen. Popes. Cardinal Deacon under Conrade & Henry 3. He held the See, xiii. years, four months, nine days. The xx. Schism between him and john the 20. called Sylvester the third. 154 john 20. called Silvester the 3. a Roman, 1045 son of Laurentius Bishop of Sabina, under Henry 3. He held the see one month, nineteen. days. 155 Gregory the sixth, a Roman, called, 1045 john Gratian, son of Peter Leo, Archpriest under Henry 3. he held the See two years, seven. months. 156 Clement the 2. a Saxon Allemayn or German, called Suidegerus, Bishop of Bemburg, 1047 under Henry 3. He held the See, nine months. vacant nine months. 157 Damasus 2. of Bavaria in Allemaign, 1048 called Pope Bagniarius, bishop of Brescia: After that Damasus the second, and Bennet the ninth, had been deposed, he held the See, six months, according as he had held it nine months, and fifteen days, after Clement the second, he held the See three and twenty days, vacant six months. 1049 158 Leo the ninth, an Allemayne, called Bruno, Count of Haspurg, otherwise termed Egghisein, son to Hugh bishop of Toul, under Henry the third, and was created at Frusina: he held the See five years, two months, six days, vacant xi. months, xxvi. days. 1055 159 Victor the second of Swethen, called Gebhard Count of Gaba, son of Arduigus, bishop of Eistat, Counsellor to Henry the third, and his Kinsman, as also to Henry the fourth his son, and was created at Mentz: he held the See two years, three months, four days, vacant four days. 1057 160 Stephen the tenth, borne in Lorraine, called Frederick, son to Gozzelon Duke of Lorraine, Cardinal Archdeacon under Henry the fourth: he held the See seven months eighteen days, vacant thirteen days: The one and twentieth Schism between him, and Bennet the tenth. 1●●8 161 Bennet the tenth▪ called john Mintius, son to Guy Count of Tusculum, Bishop of Velitrae, under Henry the fourth: he held the See nine months, twenty days. 1058 162 Nicholas the second of Savoy, called Gerard the Burgundian, Bishop of Florence, under Henry the fourth: he held the See three years, six months, six and twenty days, vacant xii. days. 1061 163 Alexander the second, a Milanois, called Anselm de ●adagio, son of Anselm a Cannon regular, bishop of Luca in Tuscanie, under Henry the fourth: he held the See eleven years, six months. The xxij. Schism between him and Honorius the second. 164 Gregory the seventh, a Tuscan of Soava, 1073 called Hildebrand, one of the Pitilian Countess, son to Bonicius Prior of Clunie, Abbot of S. Paul at Rome, Cardinal Archdeacon, under Henry the fourth: he held the See twelve years, one month, three days, vacant one year▪ four months, seven and twenty days. The three & twenty Schism, between him, and Clement the third, who was an Antipope, in the times of Victor the third, Vrban the second, and Paschal the second. And this Schism continued for long time. 165 Victor the third of Beneventum, 1086 called Didier, son to the Prince of Beneventum, a Monk of Mount Cassina, Cardinal Deacon under Henry the fourth: he held the See one year, four months, vacant five months. 166 Urban the second, a Frenchman, 1088 borne at Chastillon in the Diocese of Rheimes, called Otho the son of Milo, a Canon regular of Lateran, Monk of Clunie, and bishop of Ostia; under Henry the fourth: he held the See twelve years, four months, nineteen days, vacant thirteen days. The eleventh age. IN this eleventh Age lived Burchardus Fulbertus, bishop of Chartres, Petrus Damianus, Lanfrancus, S. Anselm, Yues Bishop of Chartres and Bruno, etc. 1099 167 Paschall the second, a Tuscan of Bleda, called Rainerius, son of Crescentius, Monk of Clunie, Abbot of S. Laurence and S. Stephen without Rome, Priest Cardinal under Henry the 4. and Henry the fifth: he held the See xviij. years, six months, seven days, vacant three days. Albert Atellan, Theodorick a Roman, & Sylvester antipopes under Paschall 2. who caused the body of Clement 3. to be digged up, and after burned which had been buried at Ravenna. 1118 168 Gelasius 2. a Caietane, called john, son to Crescentius Monk of Mount Cassina, Cardinal Deacon under Henry the fifth. He held the see, one year, vacant two days. The 24 Schism between him and Gregory the eight, a Spaniard, called Maurice Bono●in. 1119 169 Calixtu●●▪ a Burgundian, called Milo, otherwise Guy, son to William Count of Burgundy, archbishop of Vienna under Henry the fifth: he held the See five years, ten months, six days. vacant eight years. The general counsel of Lateran, against these antipopes, whereat were present (almost) a thousand Prelates. 170 Honorius 2. a Bolognian, called Lambert de Fagnano, 1124 Cannon regular of Lateran, Cardinal bishop of Ostia, under Henry and Lotharius, Saxons and Emperors. He held the See five years, two months, vacant, eight days. The 25. Schism between him and Celestine the second. 171 Innocentius 2. a Roman, son of john Guidon, Cannon regular of Latterane, 1130 the first of the Cardinal Deacons under Lotharius of Saxony and Conrade. He held the See, fourteen years, seven months, thirteen days. The 26, schism between him and two antipopes, Anacletus the second and Victor the fourth. The second general counsel of Lateran, wherein assisted well near a thousand bishops. 172 Celestine the 2. a Tuscan, 1143 called Guy de Castello, Cardinal-Deacon, and afterward Cardinal priest under Conrade. He held the See, five months, and thirteen days, vacant thirteen days. 173 Lucius the second, a Bolognian, called Gerard, Cecianimicus, son of Albert, 1144 Cannon regular, Cardinal Priest, and Chancellor to the Apostolic See under Conrade: he held the see eleven months, and four days, vacant two days. 174 Eugenius the third, of Pisa, 1145 called Peter Bernard, a Cisteaux Monk, Scholar to S. Bernard, Abbot of S. Vincent, and S. Anastasius at Rome, under Conrade and Frederick Barbarossa Emperors. He held the See, eight years, four months, xx. days, vacant two days. 175 Anastasius the fourth, a Roman, 1153 called Conrade of Subura, son of Bennet, Canon regular, Abbot and Cardinal, bishop of Sabina, under Frederick Barbarossa: he held the See, one year, four months, four and twenty days, vacant one day. 1154 176 Adrian the fourth, an Englishman, called Nicholas Break-speare, son of Robert a Monk, Cannon regular and Abbot, Cardinal Bishop of Alba, under Barbarossa: He held the See iiij. years, ten months, vacant three days. 177 Alexander the third, borne at Sienna in Tuscanie, 1159. called Rowland Bondinelli, son of Ranutius, Cardinal Deacon, and afterward Cardinal Priest, and Chancellor of the Roman church, under Barbarossa: he held the See xxi, years, nineteen days, vacant, fourteen days. The third general counsel of Lateran. The seven and twenty Schism, being most great, during which time, against Alexander was created Victor the fourth, next Paschall the third, than Calixtus the third, and Innocentius the third, who (by constraint) renounced the Papacy. 1181 178 Lucius the third, a Tuscan of Luca, called Vbaldus Allucingolus, son of Bonagiunta, Cardinal Priest, and afterward Bishop of Ostia, and of Velitrae, under Barbarossa: he held the See four years, two months, eighteen days, vacant twelve days. 1185 179 Urban the third, borne in Milan, called Lambert Cribell, son of john, Cardinal Priest and Archbishop of Milan, under Barbarossa: he held the See one year, ten months, fifteen days, vacant eleven days. 1187 180 Gregory the eight, of Beneventum, called, Albert Spanachio, otherwise of Mora Cardinal Deacon, and afterwards Cardinal Priest, and Chancellor to the holy See, under Barbarossa: he held the See one month, seven and twenty days, vacant xx. days. 181 Clement the third, a Roman, 1188 called Paul the Scholar, son of john, Cardinal of Palaestrina, under Barbarossa: he held the See three years, five months, vacant eight months. 182 Celestine the third, a Roman, 1191 called Haicinthus Bobo, son of Peter Cardinal Deacon under Henry the sixth: he held the See six years, seven months, eleven days. The twelfth Age. IN this twelfth Age lived Sigebert, Zonarus, Cedrenus, Rupertus, Sa. Bernard, Hugo de S. Victor, Peter Lombard, Peter Comestor, Euthimius, Nicetas Coniates, and divers others. 183 Innocentins the third, of Anagnia, 1198 called Lotharius, one of the Counts of Signia, son of Transimund, Cardinal Deacon under Henry the sixth, Otho the fourth, and Frederick the second Emperors: he held the See eighteen years, seven. months, sixteen days, vacant one day: The 4. general counsel of Lateran, for reformation of the church, where a thousand Prelates were present. 184 Honorius the third, a Roman, 1216 called Cen●ius Sabellus, son of Amerie, Cardinal Deacon, Chamberlain of the church, and afterward Cardinal Priest under Frederick the second: he held the See ten years, seven months, thirteen days, vacant one day. 1227. 185 Gregory the ninth of Anagnia, called Hugolin, one of the Counts of Signia: of a Cardinal Deacon he was made cardinal Bishop of Ostia under Frederick the second: he held the see fourteen years, three months, vacant one month, one day. 1241. 186 Celestine the fourth, a Milanois, called Gaulfridus Castellio, of cardinal-priest, was made Bishop of Sabina under Frederick 2. He held the see eighteen days, vacant one year, nine months. 187 Innocentius the fourth, borne in Genewaie, called Sinibaldus de Fiesca, a Count of Lavinum, son of Otho, 1243 Vicechancellor, was made cardinal-priest under Frederick the second, Conrade the fourth, Henry the fourth, & William Emperors. He held the See xi. years, six months, xii, days, Vacant three days. The general counsel of Lions, under Frederick the second. 188 Alexander the fourth of Auagnia, called Rainald, 1254 one of the Counts of Signia, son of Girard Retraent, otherwise called Philip, of Cardinal-Deacon was made bishop of Ostia, & Deane of the Cardinal Bishops, under William, Richard and Alphonsus. He held the Sée-sixe years, five months, five days, vacant three months, four days. 1261 189 Urban the fourth, a Frenchman of Troy in champaign, called jacques Pantaleon, patriarch of jerusalem, under Richard and Alphonsus: he held the See three years, one month, 4. days, vacant five months. 190 Frances, by some called Clement, 1265. of Narbona, called also Guy the Gross, son of Fulcodius, archbishop of Narbona, and cardinal Bishop of Sabina, under Richard and Alphonsus: he held the see five years, xxi. days, vacant, two years, nine months. 191 Gregory the tenth of Placentia, 1271 called Theobald Viscount, archbishop of Liege under Rodolphus: He held the See four years, two months, ten days, Vacant nine days. The second general Counsel of Lions, for recovery of the Holy Land. 192 Innocentius the fifth, a Burgundian, 1276. called F. Peter of Tarentase, of the Order of the preaching Friars, of archbishop of Lions, he was made Bishop Cardinal of Ostia, and great Penitentiary, under Rodolphus. He held the See six months, two days, Vacant, nine days. 193 Adrian the fifth of Genes, called Othobon, 1276 one of the Counts of Lavinum, son of Thedisius, Brother to Pope Innocent the fourth, Cardinal Deacon under Rodolphus: He held the See one month, nine days, vacant eight and twenty days. 194 john the one and twentieth, a Portugais of Lisbon, called M. john Peter juliani, 1276 bishop Cardinal of Tusculanum, under Rodolphus. He held the see eight months, vacant six months, seven days. 195 Nicholas the third, a Roman, 1277 called john Cajetan de Ursini, Cardinal Deacon under Rodolphus: he held the See three years, eight months, fifteen days, vacant five months, xx. days. 1281 196 Martin the fourth, borne in Tours, called Simon de Brie. Cardinal Priest under Rodolphus: he held the See, four years, one month, vacant three days. 197 Honorius the fourth, a Roman, called, Giacomo Sabella, son of Luke, first, Cardinal Deacon under Rodolphus. He held the See two years, one day vacant ten months. 1288. 198 Nicholas the fourth, a Native of Asculum, called F. Hierom; a general Minister of the Friars Minors: he was made Cardinal Priest, afterward the Praenestine Bishop, under Rodolphus, and Adolphus. He held the See four years, one month, eight days: vacant two years, 3. months, two days. 1294 199 Celestine the fifth, borne in Isernia, called F. Peter de Morone, son of Anglerius, under Adolphus: he voluntarily forsook the Popedom, and was the beginner of the Celestines order: he held the See five months, seven days, vacant ten days. 1294 200 Boniface the eight, of Anagnia, called Bennet Caietane, Son of Luitfroy, who was borne in Spain, Cardinal Deacon, afterward Cardinal Priest, under Adolphus and Albertus. He instituted the jubilee of an hundred years, and did first celebrate it, in the year 1300. He held the see viii. years, nine months, seventeen, days, vacant t●n days. The thirteenth Age. IN this thirteenth Age lived S. Frances, S. Dominicke, Albertus Magnus, Matthew Paris, Thomas▪ Aquinas, S. Bonaventure, C●basilas, Henry of Segusium, Cardinal of Ostia, Nicholas de Lyra, Accursius and others. 201 Bennet the eleventh, a Trevisane, 1303 called F. Nicholas Bocasino: of General Minister of the Preachers Order, was made Cardinal Priest, and afterward Bishop of Ostia, under the Emperor Albertus. He held the See, eight months, seventeen days, vacant one year, one month. 202 Clement the fifth, a Frenchman in Gascoigne of Bordeaux, called Raymond Goth, 1304 son of Bertrand: of Bishop of Cominges, he became Archbishop of Bordeaux, under Albertus and Henry the seventh: he held the See eight years, ten months, fifteen days, vacant two years, three months, seventeen days. The general Counsel of Vienna in France, for reformation of the Church. 203 john the xxij. a Frenchman of Cahors, 1316 called jacques d'Ossa, Son of Amauldo, Cardinal Bishop of Portua, under Lewes the fourth of Bavaria: he held the See nineteen years, four months, vacant sixteen days. The ●8▪ schism between him and Nicholas the fifth. 204 Bennet the xii. a Frenchman of Tolosa, 1334 called F. jacques Forneen de Sauardu●, a Cisteaux Monk, a Divine, bishop of Mirepoix, and Cardinall-Prieste under Lewes the fourth, He held the See seven years, three months, seventeen days, vacant fifteen days. 1342 205 Clement the sixth, a Frenchman, borne in Lymosine, called F. Peter Monstrie, son of Roger, Monk of Maumont, a Divine, Abbot of Fescamp, Archbishop of Arles, afterward of Sens, and lastly of Roven, cardinal Priest under Lewes the fourth. He celebrated the second jubilee, in the fiftieth year, 1350. And held the See, eighteen years, six months, eighteen days. vacant ten days. 1352 206 Innocent the sixth, a Frenchman of Lymosine, called Stephen d'Albert, Bishop of Clermont, cardinal Priest, after made bishop of Ostia, and great Penetentiary under Charles the fourth: he held the See nine years, eight months, and six days, vacant one year, five months. 1362 207 Urban the fifth, a Frenchman of Lymosine, likewise, called F. Guillaume de Grisac, son of Grimauld, Monk and Abbot of S. Victor de Marseillis, under Charles the fourth: he held the See eleven years, eight months, vacant seventeen days. 1370 208 Gregory the eleventh, a Frenchman of Lymosine, called Peter, Earl of Beaufort. He was 〈◊〉 Cardinal Deacon by Clement the sixth, Pope and his Uncle. He returned to Rome and brought the See thither again, which had been at Avignon for the space of seventy years. And because the romans stood in some doubt, lest the See might again be transferred out of Rome, after the decease of this Gregory, the eleventh, they took especial order, that not any French Cardinal should afterward be elected Pope: which procured the most pernicious schism that ever had been in the Church, and continued for the space of fifty years, beginning with Clement, called the seventh: he held the See seven years, two months, seven & twenty days, vacant eleven days. 209 Urban the sixth, a Neapolitan, 1378 called Bartholomew Prignano, archbishop of Acherontia, and afterward of Car, under Wenceslaus. He held the See, eleven years, eight months, vacant seventeen days. The nine and twentieth Schism, between him and Clement, called the seventh, who was a Frenchman of Geneva, named Robert, one of the Counts of Geneva, Bishop of Cambray. This Urban the sixth, instituted the jubilee of six and thirty years. 210 Boniface the ninth, a Neapolitan, 1389 called Peter, or Perin Tom●celli, of Cardinal deacon, became Cardinal Priest, under Wenceslaus, and Robert Emperors. In the year 1390. He celebrated the third jubilee instituted by his predecessor: and in the year 1400. the fourth jubilee, after the ancient manner. In his time were two Popes, at Avignon, Clement, called the seventh, and Bennet the thirteenth: he held the See eleven years, eight months, vacant fifteen days. The fourteenth age. IN this fourteenth age, lived William de Nangis, Nicephorus, Bartolus Palanudes, johannes Andreas, Petrarche, Franciscus Maronis, deviser of the Sorbonne, William of Auxere, and others. 1404. 211 Innocentius 7. of Sulmona, called Cosmatus Melioratus; of archbishop of Ravenna, and of Bishop of Bolognia, he became Cardinal Priest, and Chamberlain of the Church, under Robert Emperor: He held the see two years, twenty two days, vacant twenty three days. Bennet the thirteenth was (in his time) Pope at Avignon. 1406. 212 Gregory the twelfth, a Venetian borne, called Angelo Corratio, Patriarch of Constantinople, and cardinal-priest under Robert and Sigismond: He held the see two years, seven months, five days, vacant ten days. Then was the Council of Pisa, for avoiding of Schisms, where Gregory the twelfth, and Bennet the thirteenth, were both deposed. 1409. 213 Alexander the fifth, of Crete or Candie, called Peter Philargo, of the Fryers-minors order, a Divine, Archbishop of Milan, and cardinal-priest under Robert: he was created in the Council at Pisa (Bennet the thirteenth being then Pope at Avignon.) And held the See ten months, eight days, vacant twelve days. 214 john the twenty three, a Neapolitan, 1410. called Balthasar Cossa, Cardinal-Deacon, under Sigismond. He held the See five years, fifteen days, vacant two years. The general Council was then at Constance, to take away all Schisms: where were deposed john the 23. and Bennet the thirteenth again. Bennet would not obey the Council, but withdrew himself into Spain, to Paniscola: and in the same general Council, Gregory the twelfth (by his Attorney) renounced the Papacy. 215 Martin the fifth, a Roman, 1417. called Otho Colonna, Son of Agapetus, Cardinal Deacon: he was elected Pope in the Council of Constance, under Sigismond: he held the see fourteen years, three months, vacant two days. In his time, after the decease of Bennet the thirteenth, Clement, called the eight, was created as antipope at Paniscola: But he forsook the Papacy, in the year 1428. and (by that means) the twenty nine schism ceased, which had continued fifty years, or thereabout. This Martin the fifth, in the year 1425. celebrated the fifth jubilee. 216 Eugenius the fourth, a Venetian, 1431. called Gabriel Condelmer, Son of Angelus, a Celestine Cannon, bishop of Sienna, Cardynall-Priest under Sigismond, Albert, and Frederick the third. This man held the See fifteen years, eleven months, one and twenty days, vacant twelve days. The counsel of Basile was then, where Eugenius was deposed: but he unwilling to obey, caused the general Counsel of Ferrara to be assembled, which Counsel ended at Florence, for reduction of the Greek Church. The 30. Schism between Eugenius 4: and Foelix the fifth, called Amades, sometime Duke of Savoy, who was elected in the Counsel of Basil, 1437. and was Pope ix▪ years, five months. In the end, for good of the Church, he forsook the Papacy, and continued Cardinal bishop of Sabina, and Legate in Germany. 1447 217 Nicholas a Native of Luna, called Thomas de Sarzana, or Lucana, son of Bartholomew a Physician, Doctor in the Arts and Divinity, of Bysh of Bolognia, was made Cardinal Priest under Frederick the third: he held the See eight years, nineteen days, Vacant four days. In the year 14●0. he celebrated the sixth jubilee, and the Schism ceased by Felix the 5. renouncing the Papacy. 1455 218 Calixtus 3. a Spaniard of Valentia, called Alphonio Borgia, son of john: of bishop of Valentia, became Cardinal Priest▪ under Fr●derick the third: he held the See three years 3. months, and sixteen days, vacant seventeen days. 1458 219 Pius the second, borne in Sienna, called Aeneas Silvius Picolhomini, son of Silvius: of bishop of Sienna, was Cardinal Deacon, afterward Cardinal Priest under Frederick the third: he held the See five years, eleven months, xxvi. days, vacant xvi. days. 220 Paul the second, a Venetian, 1464 called Peter Barba, son of Nicholas, elect bishop of Vincentia, Cardinal Deacon, and afterward Cardinal Priest, under Frederick the 3. He held the See six years, ten months, vacant eleven days. 221 Sixtus the fourth of Savona, called F. Frances de Rovero, son of Leonard, 1471. of Minister general of the friars Minors, was made Cardinal Priest, under Frederick the third. He celebrated the seventh jubilee, in the year 1475. and held the See thirteen years, five days: vacant xv. days. 222 Innocentius the eight, borne in Genewaie, called john Baptista Cibo, son of Aaron: 1484 of Bishop of Melphes, was made Almover▪ and Cardinal Priest, under Frederick: he held the See eight years, six and twenty days, vacant two days. 223 Alexander the sixth, a Spaniard of Valencia, called Roderick Borgia, son of Geffrey, 149● Bishop of Valencia, Cardinal Deacon, after Priest, and lastly bishop of Alba, vice-chancellor and Dean of the Church, under Maximilian. He celebrated the eight jubilee, in the year 1500, and held the See eleven years, 8. days, vacant four days. The fifteenth Age. IN this fifteenth Age lived john Gerson, Aeneas Silvius, Froissard, Baldus, Angelus, B●ssa●tion, Chalcondilus, Platina, Nauclerus. And not long after, Martin Luther, john Eckius, Mo●e, Hosius, john Caluine, etc. 1502. 224 Pius the third, a Siennese, called France's Todescin Picolhomini, Son to the sister of Pope Pius the second, who married with Nannes: he was archbishop of Sienna, and Cardinal-Deacon, under Maximilian: and held the See sixteen days, vacant twenty four days. 1503. 225 julius the second, of Savona, called juliano de Rovero, son of Raphaell, Brother to Pope Sixtus the fourth, of cardinal-priest, became bishop of Alba, afterward Bishop of Ostia, and great Penitentiary, under Maximilian. He held the See nine years, three months, twelve days, vacant seaventeen days. The general Council of Lateran was then. 1503. 226 Leo the tenth, a Florentine, called john de Medicis, son of Laurence, Cardinal Deacon, under Maximilian, and Charles the fifth: He held the see eight years, eight months, twenty one days, vacant one month, seven days. 1522. 227 Adrian the sixth, a native of Utrecht in Galia-belgica, son of Florent; of Bishop of Ertusa, was made cardinal-priest, under Charles the fifth, to whom he was Scholemayster: he held the see one year, eight months, six days, vacant two months, four days. 1523. 228 Clement the seventh, a Florentine, called julius de Medicis, Knight of Jerusalem, nephew to Pope Leo the tenth, elected archbishop of Florence, Cardinal-Deacon, afterward Priest & Chancellor of the Church, under Charles the fifth: he celebrated the ninth jubilee, in the year 1525. And held the see ten years, ten months, eight days, vacant sixteen days. 229 Paul the third, 1534 called Alexander Farnese, son of Peter Lewes, Cardinal-Deacon, was afterward bishop cardinal of Tusculanum, Palaestrina, Sabina, Portua, and Ostia, and Deane of the cardinals, under Charles the fifth and Ferdinand. He held the see fifteen years, nineteen days, vacant two months, 29. days. The general council of Trent began Anno. 1525. 230 julius the third, borne at Arezza, 1550 called john Maria de Monte, son of Vincent Archbishop of Sipontum▪ cardinal-priest, and afterward Bishop of Palaestrina, under Charles and Ferdinand. He celebrated the tenth jubilee, in the year 1550. and held the see five years, one month, sixteen days, vacant seventeen days. 231 Marcellus the second, a Tuscan, 1555 called Marcellus Ceruinus, son of Richard; of bishop of Castello Novo, he was made cardinal-priest under Charles the fifth, and Ferdinand. He held the See twenty two days, vacant seventeen days. 232 Paul the fourth, a Neapolitan, 1555 called john Peter Caraffa, son of john Alphonso, Count of Mataluna, of Archbishop of Naples, he became Cardinal Priest of Alba, Sabina, Tusculanum and Ostia, and Deane of the cardinals, under Charles the fifth, and Ferdinand: he held the See, four years, two Months, seven and twenty days vacant, four months, six days. 1559 233 Pius the fourth, a Milainois, called john Angelo de Medicis, son of Bernardino, Cardinal Priest under Ferdinand and Maximilian the second: he held the See five years, eleven months, eight days. vacant nine and twenty days. In his time the counsel of Trent was concluded, an. 1563. 1566 234 Pius the fifth, an Alexandrine Lombard, of the preaching Friars order, called F. Michael Giller, of bishop of Surrina, and Nepesina, became cardinal Priest, Grand Inquisitor, and bishop of Montr●all, under Maximilian●. He held the See six years, three months, sixteen days. 1572 235 Gregory the thirteenth, a Bolonois, called Hugo B●n-compagnio, son of Christopher, Cardinal Priest, under Maximilian the second, and Rodolphus the second. He celebrated theeleaventh jubilee, in anno 1575. and held the See twelve years, xi months, xii. days, vacant eleven days. 1585. 236 Sixtus the fifth, De la march d' Ancona, cardinal de Montalto, called F. Foelix Peret, of the Friars Minors order, cardinal Priest under Rodolphus the second: He held the See, five years, four months, xxi. days, vacant fourteen days. 237 Urban the seventh, a Roman, 1590. called john Baptista Castagnia, Son of Cosimo, cardinal of S. Marcellus, under Rodolphus the second: He held the See fifteen days, vacant two months. 238 Gregory the fourteenth, a Milanois, 1590. called Nicholas Sfondratus, cardinal of S. Cecilia under Rodolphus the second: He held the See ten months, ten days, vacant fifteen days. 239 Innocentius the ninth, a Bolognois, 1590. called john Baptista Fachineti, cardinal of SS. quatuor, under Rodolphus the second, he held thee See two months, vacant two months. 240 Clement the eight, a Florentine, called Hyppolito Aldobrandino, Son of Sylvester, 1592. Auditor of Rota, and Datary or Almoner to the Pope: was made cardinal Priest of S. Pancratia, and great Penetentiary. He was sent Legate into Poland, by Pope Sixtus the fifth, in the year 1592. He was elected Pope under Rodolphus the second, and held the See thirteen years, one month, five days, until the third of March, 1605. and then died. During his pontificacy, which deserveth to be noted, he procured peace between the two Kings most Christian and catholic, and the Duke of Savoy: he reduced Ferrara under obedience to the S. See: and celebrated the twelft jubilee, in the year 1600. 241 Leo the xi. a Florentine likewise, 1605 called Alexander de Medicis, Son unto Octavian, of the most famous house of the Medici, of bishop of Pistoya, became bishop of Florence, and Ambassador of Frances de Medicis, great Duke of Tuscany, unto Pope Gregory the thirteenth. He was made Cardinal, being entitled with Saint Quirice and Saint julita, after, of Saint john, and Saint Paul, and in the end, of Saint Praxedes. Being sent Legate into France, by Pope Clement the eight: He mediated the peace with the spaniard: and returning to Rome, he was made chief of the Congregation of bishops. And the second of April, 1605. he was created Pope: But his Pontificate, was of small continuance, because he held the See but seven and twenty days only, and died the seven and twenty day of the said month, under the same Rodolphus the second. 1605. 242 Paul the fift, a Roman, Originally descended from Sienna, called Camillo Borghese, who had been Referendary unto either Signature: Vicar of the Patryarchall Church of Saint Maria Maior, Vice-Legate to Bolognia, General Auditor of the Apostolic Chamber: and Nuntio from the S. See into Spain. He was made Cardinal Priest of Saint Eusebius, in the year of our Lord, 1596. by Pope Clement the eight, and afterward bishop of Esino, in the Marchia d'Ancona. After the decease of Pope Leo the eleventh. He was elected in his place, the sixteenth day of May, 1605. As yet to this present year 1611. He remaineth living and hath held the Papacy, the space of five years, and somewhat more. TO THE HOnourable Company of the Merchant Tailors; being the Society of Saint john Baptist. ¶ A brief Collection of the Original and Progress, of the Knights of the worthy Order of S. john of jerusalem, who were afterward called Knights of Rhodes, and Knights of Malta: Likewise their exploits in war, under the conduct of their Great Masters, from the year 1099. until this present. With some, as brief report also, of the knights Templars, and all other Orders of knight hood through the world. THe Military Order of S. john of ●erusalem, 1099 had her birth and first Original in the holy City of jerusalem, and passed there her first years of Infancy, with a great part of her adolescentie. When as the Saracens were masters of the holy City, and of the country all about the sacred Sepulchre of our Lord, which was ruined about the year of salvation, 1012. by the commandment of Equin Califfe of the Sarrazins, and continued so ruined, until the time of Constantine Monomachus, Emperor of Constantinople, who at the entreaties of the christians which then dwelt in jerusalem (with the consent of Bomensor Elmonius Stensabus, Califfe or Soldan of Egypt) built it again at his own charges, in the year, 1048. About which time, certain Gentlemen and Italian Merchants of the City of Melphes, frequenting the Ports and Maritane Cities of Syria and Egypt, and bringing good merchandises into those Countries, won themselves much love and liking, not only of the cities Governors, but also of the caliph of Egypt: and being well disposed christians, they would oftentimes go to jerusalem, to visit the holy memorable places: and having no place of retirement in the city, they obtained favour and permission of the caliph, to build there a Church and a Palace, for their own use and habitation, as also for others of their Nation, in that quarter of the city, where the christians might dwell near to the holy Sepulchre. There they erected two Monasteries, one in honour of the blessed Virgin Mary, called S. Maria de la Latina (differing from the Greek churches which were in jerusalem, and placed there an Abbot of Mont-Cassina) and was built to lodge christian Pilgrims therein. The other was dedicated to S. Mary Magdalen, as a place of entertainment of all such women, as should adventure thither in pilgrimage, they being both Religiously governed. Not long after, they builded an Hospital, wherein to lodge as well all sickly travailers, as any other Pilgrims of honest disposition, with a Church also thereto belonging, being both dedicated to S. john Baptist. These Monasteries, Churches, and Hospitals, were long time maintained by the care and cost of the Amalphitanes, who founded them: and until such tune as the City was conquered by the Christians from the Infidels, and that Godfrey of Bullen was there elected King, which was in the year 1099. 1. The City being thus won, 1099 F. Gerard was the first Rector or Governor of the hospital of S. john, who, when the City was besieged by the Christians, was very ill dealt with by the Infidels, & was long time (by them) kept a captive prisoner, because they disinherited, that he had some secret intelligence with the Christians, which beleagered the City. But after that the Christians were masters thereof, he was delivered out of prison and governed both wisely and charitably the Hospital of S. john, persuading and enduring Christian Kings and Princes, to enrich and endow it with their liberality, which (indeed) they did in bountiful manner, so that in France, Italy, Spain, and other Provinces of christendom, the Hospital of S. john, found good Benefactors, and attained (in short time) to great revenues and possessions. In the year 1113. 1113. Pope Paschall the second, received F. Gerard, and the Knights of S. john under protection of the Apostolic Seat, and granted them great privileges, ordaining, that after the decease of F. Gerard, they should proceed cannonically to the election of another Rector or Governor: who was afterward called Great Master of the Order or military hospital, of S. john of jerusalem, a name which continueth yet to this present after five hundred years from the beginning thereof. 1118 2 In the year 1118. F. Gerard departed out of this life, in the Papacy of Gelasius the second, and when as the order of the Knight's Templars began. The beginning of the knights Templars. After his decease, there succeeded him by election, F. Raymond de Puy, who was a professed Knight of the Order: Albeit, some hold opinion that F. Roger succeeded deceased Gerard, and governed the hospital of S. john, from the year, 1118. until the death of Baldwine, second of that name, King of jerusalem, who died in the year, 1131. F. Raymond (in a general Chapter, assembled in jerusalem, with advise of the other Knights) made Statutes for the Order, form and instituted a rule of life, which all the following Knights were to observe. He was called Great Master of the Order, and yet he qualified that Title, by calling himself Servant unto the poor of Christ jesus, and Guardian of the hospital of jerusalem. This Great Master, perceiving that the revenues of the Hospital did daily increase, and that he could not better employ such wealth, then against the Infidels by making war upon them: he made offer to the K. of jerusalem, of himself, his strength, and all his Knightly Brethren, who bore in their streamers & Ensigns, a Cross Argent, in a field Gules. And thence forward, these religious brethren were distinguished into three degrees: for one company were knights, another Captains, & the third Servants, not having (from the beginning) any other difference among them, but that some were Ecclesiastical persons, & the other Layicks. And from that time forward, there was not any enterprise in Palestine against the Infidels, but the Greatmaister was present thereat in person, with his religious Knights: Knights Ho●pitallers of the Hospital of S. john in jerusalem: became afterward to be Knights of the Rhodes, & lastly Knights of Malta. who were first called knights hospitalers, or of the hospital of S. john of jerusalem, afterward, knights of the Rhodes, & lastly, knights of Malta. They grew into so great credit and reputation, that they were employed in the managing & guiding all affairs of chiefest importance. Among others, Gerard Gebert, Knight of this Order, was sent by Foulkes K. of Anjou into England, to treat on the marriage of Constance (Princess of Antioch, Near to the Q. Melisenda, & daughter to Prince Boemond) with Raymond son to the Earl of Poicters, who was then in the Court of Henry King of England. In like manner (this marriage being thus concluded, by the ingenuity of this knight) at the same time, Raymond Berengarius, earl of Barcelona, & Prince of Cathalonia (who had conquered the isles of Maiorica & Minorica from the Moors, & (in single combat) defended the chastity & honour of Mahauld, wife to the Emperor Henry the fifth, against two Allemaigne Knights, that had falsely accused her of Idolatry) to shut up the conclusion of his days, resolved to take the habit of this famous Brotherhood, and in that sacred profession, he persevered all his life time after, which was in the year 1131. 1131. Not much differing from this time, it is reported, that three Knights of this Order, being native Frenchmen of Picardy, & detained then by the Sultan of Egypt in captivity, were admirably delivered, and trans-ported out of Egypte, with Ismeria, daughter to the said Soldan, to the place where (at this instant) is the church of Nostre Dame de Liesse, and this happened in the year, 1139. 1139. In the year 1153. Raymond the Great Master, caused the siege to be continued before the city of Ascalon, which the Infidels had defended against the christians more than fifty years: and at length, it was yielded to the said Master, the 12. day of August, 1154 which was in the tenth year of King Baldwine the 3. In acknowledgement of a prize so signal, and beneficial to all christendom, Pope Anastasius the fourth, gave and granted very great privileges, to the Order of these Knights of S. john of jerusalem, the first day of November in the same year, exempting them from the jurisdiction and control of the East Ecclesiastical Prelates, which was the cause of great troubles, between the Bishops of the country there, and the knights of this order: albeit the Pope and his Cardinals maintained them still stoutly. Some have held, that this Great M. Raymond was a Florentine, but the most credible opinion is, that he was a Frenchman, a Native of Dauphin, issued of a very Noble house, called du Puy: whereof, namely, jacques Bosius the Italian (who hath amply written the history of this order) is an ingenuous witness. He died in the year, 1160. with this reputation; that he had been a man of good and virtuous life, fearing god, valiant, wise, and advised in the affairs of the world, and one well approved in warlike exercises. 3 After that Raymond was deceased, 1160 there succeeded in the Mastership and government of the Order, F. Auger de Balben, of whom there is found nothing deserving memory: but that (in his time) died King Baldwin the third, who was not only much bemoaned of the christians, but likewise of the Infidels, who said: That the Christians had just cause to lament for the death of Baldwine, because they had lost a Prince, that had not his equal in the world. This Greatmaister Auger, after he had governed his charge in peace and repose about three years, died in the year, 1163. 4 Arnold de Comps, 1163 was next elected Master in his place, who was a man of great spirit, valour, and council. And in short time after his election, he entered into Egypt, with Amaulrie, the new King of Jerusalem, who made war upon the caliph of Egypt; because he refused to continue and pay the annual tribute, wherein he had bound himself to King Baldwine the third, for a perpetual payment to the Kings of Jerusalem. Arnold after he had (with great wisdom and courage) governed the Hospital of S. john about four years, died in the year 1167. and then succeeded him 1167. 5 Gilbert d'Assaly, or de Sailly, who was of stout mind, and so liberal; that he flowed in bounty, especially to his Soldiers, so that he fell into great expenses, and wasted the whole treasure of the house. Insomuch, that he was enforced to borrow Money at interest, with conditi●ion; that if he took from the Infidels the City of Belbeis (anciently called Pelusium) he should stand acquitted to his Brotherhood, as indeed he did, and victoriously performed his promise, the third day of November, 1168. In which year he held a Chapter general in Jerusalem, where perceiving that he was greatly indebted, and had charged the Hospital, with more than an hundred thousand Crowns of mere debts; being also much grieved, that his attempts found not equal Issue to his high desires: he determined to renounce his great Mastership, which he did in the year 1169. 1169 6 By his resignation, or renunciation rather, another Knight was chosen Great Master, named F. Gastus, or Castus; of whom there is nothing found, that makes to any purpose of this our brief History. And the brevity of his time of government was the cause, by reason he was not a full year in the charge, but died in the very same year of his election, and had 7 F. joubert, a very religious man, 1169. for his successor, who in the year 1176. joined himself with Philip Earl of Flanders, that was then come into Syria, to assist King Baldwine the fourth against Saladine, who had a very powerful Army, miraculously vanquished by the Christians, that were but few in number, in the month of November 1177. at which time the Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, and Pope Alexander the third were reconciled together. At length, Saladine withdrew himself from the Country of Damas', in the year 1179. And then died joubert Master of the hospitalers, a man very chartable to the poor, and sickly. It is said, that mere conceit of grief, to behold (so manifestly) the ruin of christian affairs in Syria, with the shameful and damageable truce, made between the King of jerusalem, and the Earl of Tripoli (by his example) with Saladine; was the only cause of abridging his days, having governed the Order of Saint john, about ten years. 8 In his stead was elected Roger de Molins, 1179. a man of high discretion and courage. In his time happened a great dissension between the Prince of Antioch, and the Patriarch of the said place: and this Roger was chosen to be mediator of peace and agreement between them, which followed in the year 1181. This Roger (with Heraclius Patriarch of jerusalem, and Arnald de Trogo, Master of the Knight's Templars) was sent by the King of Jerusalem (in quality of an Ambassador) into the West, to require aid of the Christian Princes. These Ambassadors were kindly entertained by the Emperor, King Philip Augustus, God's gift, surnamed the Conqueror, the Kings of Sicily, England, and Hungary: they returned back again into Syria, all but the Master of the Templars, who died by the way. In the year 1187. the Earl of Tripoli, being leagued and confederated with Saladine; granted him passage, and relieved his Army with victuals. And Saladine having besieged the city of Ptolomais, the Knights of Saint john and the Templars (joining together) disordered the whole Army, and Roger the great Master, fight valiantly, there died, with the fall of his Horse upon him, and smothered in his Armour, as also being much trodden on with the enemy's Horses. His body being afterward found among the dead, was buried with great woe and sorrow. And notwithstanding this loss of the great Master; yet the Knights of Saint john and the Templars, won the day of battle against the Turks and Sarrazins; of whom died then in the field about fifteen thousand, the first day of May, in the year 1187 After whom 1187 9 F. Garnier of Naples in Syria (which was the ancient city of Sichem in Canaan) was elected great Master. In his time was a bloody battle fought between the Christians and Infidels, wherein the King of Jerusalem (named Guy de Lusignan) was taken Prisoner, with the very chief Lords of his Kingdom. It is said also, that the Christians had then the true Cross in the battle, but it was taken from them by the Infidels: and almost all the Knights of Jerusalem, and the Templars, were one part slain in the battle, and the rest beheaded in cold blood. F. Garnier, after he had fought very manfully, yet being mortally wounded in many places of his body; by the goodness and swiftness of his Horse, escaped into the City of Ascalon: where ten days after, he departed into a better life, the fourteenth of july, having been great Master but two months and six days. 10 The twenty day of the said month of july 1187. 1187 the Knights that were in jerusalem, chose F. Ermingard d'Aps, to be their Master. The second day of October, in the same year, the City of Jerusalem was submitted to the power of Saladine: 88 years, two months and seventeen days, after that it was delivered (by Godfrey of Bullen) from the hands of the Infidels: Frederick the first, surnamed Barbarossa, then holding the Empire of the West, and Isaac the Angel, that of the East, at Constantinople, Urban the third being Pope of Rome, and Philip the second, called Augustus, God's Gift and Conqueror, reigning in France. Then were expulsed out of Jerusalem, the Knights hospitalers, Templars, and all the Latin Christians, of which Christians, the hospitalers redeemed from captivity of the barbarous, to the number of two thousand with their Money. All the Churches of the city were then polluted and profaned, except the Temple of the Resurrection; which was bought with a great sum of Money, by the Christians of the East. After the loss of Jerusalem, the Knight's Hospitalers were continually in Arms, faithfully assisting the Christian Princes, that had put on Crosses, for the recovery of the holy Land, and did actions (of high desert) at the siege of Ptolomais: which, after a long siege of three years, was regained from the Infidels by the Christians, the twelft day of july, 1191. 1191 And in that City, the Knights of Saint john kept then their ordinary abode and residence. And in the very same year, the Christians won a notable victory against the Barbarians, and Saladine their chief: wherein they were worthily assisted by the knights hospitalers and Templars. The year following, being 1192. 1192 in Winter, died Ermingard d'Aps the great master, in the city of Ptolomais, and then was chosen in his place 11 Geoffrey de Duisson. In his time there was truce taken for five years, between the Christians that were in the holy Land, and Saladine, by which means, many Lords and Gentlemen of divers Nations, who had worn the Cross, and gotten great store of goods and possessions: returned home to their Countries, and gave their goods to the Brotherhood of saint john, which greatly did augment their renennewes. And after the death of Henry Earl of champaign; the hospitalers and Templars remained governors, and administrators of the kingdom of Jerusalem: howbeit, that (by the fewer number of Christians there abiding) election was made of Amaury de Lusignan, who had succeeded the king of jerusalem in the kingdom of Cyprus, with consent of the Patriarch, the Prelates and Barons of the Realm, in the year 1194. when soon after died Duisson the Greatmaister, and then succeeded him, by election 12 F. Alphonso of Portugal, ●194 a knight of the Order of Saint john, and of the Royal house of Portugal, though it doth not appear certainly, to what king he was Son. He made very worthy and commendable statutes, whereof (to this day) there are some inviolably kept. But because he was of too stiff nature, over-rough, surely and severe: he encurred the hatred of the greater part of the Knights hospitalers. Which was the cause that he renounced his mastership, and shipped himself for return home to Portugal, in the same year of his election: But he died the first day of March, in the year 1207. 13 The same year that Alphonso renounced the Great mastership, to wit, in the year 1194. 1194 Geoffrey le Rat, who was Graund-Pryour of France, was chosen Master: And Saladine then dying, his Son Noradine (Lord of Aleppo) succeeding him. About this time, Simon, Earl of Montfort, was sent by King Philip Augustus, with an Army into Syria; where finding much disorder, he took truce for ten years with the Infidels, in the year 1198. 1198 In the time of this tranquil estate, there chanced a great difference, between the Knights hospitalers and Templars, grounded on this occasion. The hospitalers complained, that the Templars had enterprised too far upon their jurisdiction, with much contempt and violation thereof. Which quarrel (after many rough encounters and skirmishes) was appeased & accorded, by the interposition of king Amaury, the patriarchs of Antioch and Jerusalem, and other Princes and Christian Prelates, who comprimitted this difference, in the name of Innocentius the third, which fell out very successively. For, after that God (the only Staff and stay of all affairs in the holy Land) had permitted this friendly unity, between these two military Orders of Knighthood, King Amaury of Lusignan so prevailed, that the Great Master and Knights of Saint john, might live with him in the Isle of Cyprus, where he granted the government of the Kingdom to them. In the year 1205. 1205 King Amaury died, so did Queen Isabella, who appointed her Daughter Mary (which she had by Conrade of Monferrat) to be her heir, and he left her to be tutoured and guided by the Knights hospitalers and Templars. In the year 1260. Geoffrey le Rat, the Great Master died, and then succeeded him 1260 14 Guerin de Montagu, of the language of Awergne, who (with the Knights of his order) aided Lyvon, King of Armenia, against the Turks and Barbarians, that had intruded into his Kingdom. In recompense whereof, he gave them the city of Salef, with the castles of Camard and new castle, and their dependences. He likewise recommended his heir and Kingdom, to the Knights of the Hospital of Saint john; which gift was confirmed by the Pope, the fifth of August 1209. Then were john de Brienna, and Mary his Wife (Heir to the Kingdom) crowned King and Queen of Jerusalem. At length, in the year 1230. 1230 Guerin the great Master died in the city of Ptolomais, and during his time, all the Christians affairs in the holy Land, depended (very much) upon the knights Hospitalers and Templars: who albeit they had many contentions between them, yet did they still agree together (in all matters) against the Infidels. After him succeeded 15 One F. Gerin, 1240 of whom no other name is found remembered. Richard Duke of Cornewal, This is mistaken, for this was K. Richard the first himself. and Brother to Henry (than King of England) arrived soon after in Palestine, with an Army of forty thousand men, and did many worthy actions there. The great Master also, and his knights with him (bearing him company) fought valiantly against the Corasmine Infidels. There the said Master was taken, and sent as a Prisoner to the Soldan of Egypt, where he died, and in his place, the Knights of S. john elected (in the city of Ptolomais) for their great Master 1345 19 Bertrand de Comps, in the time of Pope Innocent the fourth, and when the General Counsel was called at Lions, 1245. This great Master was present in a furious battle, fought against the Turcomans, that wasted all the country about Antioch, in the month of August, 1248 where, having received sundry deadly wounds, he ended his days: And in the City of Ptolomais, on the 24. of Aug. was elected as Great master 1248 17. Peter de Villebride. In his time, Lewes K. of France, called S. Lewes, took on him the cross against the Infidels, with many Princes & Prelates of France, who went and besieged Damieta where they were aided by the knights hospitalers & Templars, and the City was soon after surrendered to K. Lewes in the year 1250. Then did the Sultan of Egypt give battle to the christians, wherein King Lewes with his brethren, Charles' and Alphonsus, the King of Cyprus, as also the Great master, & many knights of the hospitalers & Templars, were all taken prisoners. Which surprisal, caused an atonement between King Lewes and the Soldan, & the hospital Knights lent money to King Lewes, to pay his ransom. In the year 1251. Villebride the great master died in the City of Ptolomais, & succeeded by election 1251 18 Guillaum de Chasteau-neuf, or de Castelno, of the speech of Awergne. He was a great observer of justice, & pope Alexander 4. gave to the knights hospitalers, the castle & lands of Bethania, in the year, 1256. In his time, the Christians lost their utmost hope, of any succour from the Princes of Europe: and in the year 1280. the Great Master of Castelno died, when as the Hospital Knights of S. john, elected in his stead 19 Hugue Revelle, or Revel, 1260 in the time of Pope Vrban the fourth, who gave to the knights of S. john, Mont-Tabor, 1261. and in Anno, 1262. they bought the Castle of Assur, but in the following two years, they took from the Saracens a Castle named Lilion, whereupon, the Sultan of Egypt concluded, to work the ruin of the Knights hospitalers, and (as an instance) he forcibly took from the said Knights (in the year 1265. 1265 ) the Castle of Assur, at the surprisal whereof, there were slain to the number of 90. knights of S. john, which greatly abated their power and repute. And in the year 1267. the Knights hospitalers and Temples were assailed, and much confused in battle by the Saracens, near to the City of Ptolomais, for they wasted and spoiled all the country thereabout. In the year also 1270 the Knights of S. john lost the Castle of Cracquo, which was assaulted by the Soldan, and all the knights within it, were put to the sword. It is likewise said, that this Great Master Revel, assisted King Lewes in the voyage to Tunis, where the said King died of the plague, and that in the end, about the year, 1278. the Great Master Revel ended his days, having held five Chapters, or assemblies of the Brotherhood of S. john, wherein many notable Statutes were made, for government and reformation of the Order. 1278 20 After his decease, Nicholas Lorgus, was chosen Great Master, who, not to swerver a jot from his predecessor (well knowing, that nothing sooner procureth the ruin of Commonweals & Commonalties, than discord and dissension) took such pains, to reconcile the Knight's hospitalers with the Templars, that he drew them to accord, and made them good friends. In the year, 1282 the Knights of S. john, won a famous victory against the Saracens, who proudly came to besiege the Castle of Margate, their very principal Fortress: which was very manfully defended by the hospitalers, and in the end, quitted (at composition) by the knights, who returned (with their Ensigns displayed) to the City of Ptolomais. And in the year, 1288. Lorgus the Great Master died, with very grief, because he saw the Christian affairs in the Holy land, daily to fall from ill, to worse, without any means or hope of remedy. 21 In the same year, john de Villiers, a Frenchman borne, 1288 was created Great Master of the Order. In his time, the City of T●ipoly was taken from the Christians, by the Infidels, as (in like manner) were the cities of Sidonia & Ba●uth, in the year, 1289. all which were ransacked, ruined and burned, and the city of tire brought under the Soldans subjection, whereon the christians of Ptolomais were glad to seek their own peace. During which time, the Great Master went to Brundisium, with the Great Master of the Templars, to solicit the christian Princes of the Crusade, and the Soldan came to assail the city of Ptolomais, which was virtuously defended, by the Knights of the Hospital and Temple, with many brave sallies forth upon the besiedgers. Especially the Great Master Villiers, who was sore wounded, with long sustaining the whole charges of the Barbarian Infidels, the Knight's Barricadoing themselves in a quarter of the City, which yet was afterward taken on Friday the 18. of May, the same year 1292. With this great loss, the Christians were driven out of the holy land, 191. years ten months, & three days, after it had been Conquered by Godfrey of Bullen. The Great M. with the rest of his Knights, fled (for safety) to the Isle of Cyprus, where they were very kindly entertained by the K. of the Island, who assigned to them & the Templars, the City of Limosson, which was a Port Town or Haven on the Sea. There did they inhabit, and there did the Great Master assemble two general Chapters, one in December, 129●. and the other in October 1293. making therein divers good Statutes for the Order: and in the year 12●●. he died at Limosson, & then succeeded him 22 F. Odo des Pins, borne in Provence, 1294 in the time of Pope Boniface the eight. He incurred the hatred and disgrace of the knights of his Order, by reason of his negligence and covetousness. And there was a purposed determination, to deprive him of his Great mastership; but it was impeached by the Pope, to avoid scandal, and at length he was cited to appear at Rome in person to answer to the complaints of the hospitalers, and thitherward he travailed. But before he could see Italy, he died by the way, in the year 1296. having (in the precedent years) held two general Chapters at Limosson. He carried also along with him a manuscript Chronicle, wherein he had appealed certain letters of the Popes, containing excommunication, whereby he pursued and relieved his own appeal. 1296 23 The Knights hearing the death of their Great Masters des Pins, elected (at Limosson) the twenty four day of March 1296. F. Guillaume de Villaret to succeed him; who was of the same Country of Provence, and Prior of S. giles, where he was at the time of his election. But having intelligence thereof, he travailed immediately to the Kingdom of Cyprus, and governed in his charge very prudently. In his time Vsau Cassanus, King of the Tartars, became a Christian, and recovered the City of jerusalem, where he placed the Knights hospitalers and Templars in Garrison, in the year 1300. He took the City of Damas' likewise, but it was quickly regained by the Infidels, and the hospitalers and Templars returned then to Cyprus again, where the Great Master departed out of this life, in the year 1308. having held five general Chapters at Limosson, and seen the utter ruin of the Knight's Templars. 1308 24 The great Master being dead, Folquet de Villaret, of the same Nation of Provence, was elected in his room. He was a man of lively spirit and great courage, and seeing that he had attained to this Sovereign dignity; he resolved to put in execution a matter, which (in his predecessors days) had often been intended, but could not any way be effected (viz.) to depart from the Isle of Cyprus, and to get a dwelling some where else, which he very happily performed. For in Anne. 1308. the very year of his election, he made a voyage to Constantinople, and afterward into France, where the Pope gave him the Isle of Rhodes, (if he could get it) which with his Knights he conquered, in the year 1309. and seven other Islands near adjoining. So that thither was the residence of saint john's knights transferred, and then they were afterward called, The beginning of the Knights of the Rhodes who held their first name of S. john's Knights still Knights of the Rhodes, yet keeping the Name of Saint john of Jerusalem still. Not long after, Otthoman, first Emperor of the Turks, came and besieged Rhodes with a Potent Army: but it was relieved by Amadis the fourth, Earl of Savoy, and Otthoman was compelled to raise his siege. After which time the Earls of Savoy wore on their Armours, a Cross Argent, in a field Gules, in memory of the help they had given to the Knights of the Rhodes. The order of the Templars (having been utterly suppressed, in a general Council holden at Vienna in Dolphin) the greater part of their goods was given to the Order of the Rhodes, and confirmed by Pope Clement the fifth, 1312. In the year 1314. the Knights of the Rhodes conquered the Isle of Lango, with other Isles in the Archipelagus. And in the year 1317. Folquet the Great Master (pleasing his own humour overmuch in his victories and conquests) began to grow haughty, proud, and insolent, which brought him into contempt of his companions: whereupon, the Knights revolted from him, and if he had not saved himself in a castle, they had seized his person. But, in regard they could not get him, they deposed him from the dignity of Great Master, & in his place, elected 1317 25 Maurice de Pagnac, whereof Pope john the twenty two, being advertised, he was greatly offended thereat, and sent two Prelates to the Rhodes, to inform themselves of the fact, with command, to cite the Great Master de Villaret and de Pagnac, to appear at Avignon in person, Gerard des Pins being appointed Lieutenant General in the mean while. At this instant time, Orchanes Emperor of the Turks, came boldly and besieged the Isle of Rhodes: but the knights had an admirable victory against him, for there were then ten thousand Turks hewn in pieces. In this Interim, Maurice de Pagnac, died at Montpellier, Anno. 1322. and Folquet de Villaret was re-established in the dignity of Great Master. But he perceiving that it was against the liking of his fellow knights, renounced his Great Mastership, in the year 1323. and lived as a private Knight, until the first day of September, 1327. when he died, and was buried at Montpellier. 1327. 26 The same year that he gave over his dignity, the Knights of the Rhodes chose Elion de Villeneufue, borne also in Provence, and Prior of Saint giles. In the year 1343. a league was made between the signory of Venice, the K. of Cyprus, and knights of the Rhodes. And the Great Master having won the name of an happy governor, died the 27. of May at Rhodes. In his life time, he had enclosed the great masters Palace with walls & towers, and divided the languages, Bailiwicks and other dignities of the Order. 27 After the decease of Villeneufue, Deodon, 1346 or Gods-gift (a Native of Provence) was elected Great Master. About four years before he was promoted to this Dignity, he had fought with an horrible and monstrous Dragon, that greatly afflicted the Isle of Rhodes. And having killed the Monster, he was therefore so highly honoured and esteemed, that his memory yet remaineth renowned to posterity. In the year 1347. he aided the King of Armenia against the Soldan of Egypt. Pope Clement the sixth held the Knights of Rhodes in such esteem, that almost all the Forts in Italy (belonging to the See) were governed severally by one of them. In the year 1351. Constance King of Armenia, became a Brother Knight of Rhodes. And in the year 1353. the Son to john Cantacuzen, Emperor of Constantinople, came and required aid of the Great Master of Rhodes: who, after he had governed this Order of Saint john seven years, six months, and ten days, died the seventh of September, in the said year 1353. and was buried in the Church of S. john of Rhodes. He builded Milles in the City of Rhodes, and engirt the Suburbs with walls, making them very strong on the Sea side. 1353 28 Next succeeded him by election (as Great Master) Peter de Cornilian, Prior of S. giles, borne also in Provence. He was Master, but one year, eight months and seventeen days: for, falling into a grievous sickness, he died in the City of Rhodes, the 24. of August, 1355. He was a man of very exemplary life, and so severe, that he was surnamed the Corrector of Customs. He held a general Chapter at Rhodes, 1354. wherein many good Statutes were made. 1355 29 After the great Master was deceased, according to accustomed form, Roger des Pins, born likewise in Provence, did next succeed him. In his time, the Pope persuaded the Knights of Rhodes, to buy the Principality of Achaia, of jacques de Savoy, Prince of Piedmont, and the Knights of Rhodes made a general assembly in the City of Avignon, to effect the treaty of buying the said principality of Achaia, and to reform some abuses, crept into the Order. For their statutes were now traduced into the Latin tongue, and to all Princes were sent authentical Copies or Volumes of them, by appointment of the great Master: And in the year, 1359. the great Commander, & the Marshal of the Order, were sent into France (in quality of Ambassadors) to be visitors and reformers. There was an assembly of the Knights, called at the City of Carpentras, but it could not hold, in regard of the great masters death, who died the 28. of May, 1365. and was much lamented, but by the poor especially, to whom he was a great and charitable Almoner. 30 Raymond Berengarius, of Provence also, 1365 was next chosen great Master, who had been before Commander of Castle Sarrazin. In his time the King of Cyprus, and the Knights of Rhodes made a league together, and took (perforce) the City of Alexandria in Egypt, which they ransacked, spoiled▪ and burnt. The Armenians being expulsed by the Saracens out of their dwellings, were charitably entertained by S. john's knights, in the Isle of Lango: and at the same time, the City of Tripoli in Syria, was taken and sacked by the King of Cyprus, and the Knights of the Rhodes. In the year, 1371. the Great Master was (by the Pope) elected Nuntio from the Apostolic seat, to appease the rumours and divisions, which were then in the Kingdom of Cyprus: whether he went in person, and both by his Authority and wisdom, he soon seized all the troubles and mollestations. The Great Master having governed his Order about eighteen years and an half, departed this life in the year, 1373 31 In the same year, Robert de juliac, 1373. or of Gulich, great Prior of France, was chosen Greatmaister, who (at the time of his election) had the charge of his Priory: but understanding the news, he went forthwith to Avignon, where he was received with great honour, an assembly general of this Knightly Order being then there held, and the Great Master had the government of Smyrna imposed upon him, under pain of excommunication. At his coming to Rhodes, he qualified all the contentions, which had happened in the time of his absence. At this time went the Pope, to hold his seat at Rome again, which he and his predecessors had kept at Avignon, for the space of seventy one years 1376. In which year, the 29. of june, died the Great Master, and then 1376 32 In his place came john Fernandes d'Heredia, a Native of Arragon, in the City of Valentia, who was Prior of Cathalognia, and castilian d'Emposta. Twice he had been married, and (chancing to be a Widower) he was made a Knight of Rhodes, in the time of Villeneufue, who was then Great Master. Being then but a simple Knight, he went to visit the holy Sepulchre, and other memorable places in the holy Land. He was also Ambassador from Pope Clement the sixth, to the Kings Philip 6. of France, and Edward the third of England, and did very good service to King Philip, in the year 1346. For he being dismounted from his horse, on a day of battle against the English he gave him his own horse, whereby the King escaped to a place of safety. In like manner he fortified the Bastions and new walls of Avignon, whereof he was made Governor by the Pope. Being great Master, he took his way to Rhodes, in the year, 1377. and being required by the General of the Venetians Army, to unite their forces together: they went to Morca, in the year, 1378. where they besieged the City of Patras, and took both it and the Castle. The great Master (fight man to man with the Governor of Patras) slew him manfully. afterward, in an ambuscado of Turks, he was taken prisoner, by reason he was too well known to them: Whereupon, to work his liberty, Patras and other places (which had been won from them) were re-delivered to the Turks. And yet notwithstanding, they would needs carry him with them into Albania, where they kept him as a slave three years. In the year, 1381. the great masters freedom was bought with money, and he returning to Rhodes, the Ambassadors of Smirna came to desire succour of him. In the year, 1391. Bajazeth, Emperor of the Turks made some preparation to besiege Rhodes, whereupon, Phillebert de Naillac, Prior of Aquitaine, was sent by his fellow knights to avignon, with Letters to the great Master, to require aid against Bajazeth. Naillac returning to Rhodes, in the year, 1396. Heredia the great Master died, and was buried at Caspa. 33 News being brought to Rhodes, 1395. that Heredia the great Master was dead: Phillebert de Naillac, grand Prior of Aquitaine, & borne in France, succeeded in his room. At the Spring time, he was invited by Sigismond King of Hungaria, to come and assist him with his Knights against Bajazeth, which he did in person, in the year, 1397. And then was a battle fought at Nicopolis, where Bajazeth had the victory, the K. of Hungary, being glad to save himself (and with the Great Master) retired to Rhodes. Thither also did the Emperor of Constantinople, send all his precious jewels, to be kept by the Great Master, fearing lest Bajazeth should surprise Constantinople. But he was disappointed by Tamburlaine, who overcame Bajazeth, and kept him captive in a Cage of iron, so long as he lived, and the siege of Constantinople being raised, the great Master sent home again the Emperor's jewels. After the foil of Bajazeth, the great Master de Naillac sailed with an army into Caria, & there builded an inexpugnable fortress, which he named S. Peter's Castle, in the year 1399. under the reign of Charles the sixth king of France. In the year, 1403. there happened wars between the k. of Cyprus and the Genewayes; which was pacified and ordered by the wisdom and authority of the great Master: to whom the Sultan of Egypt sent an Ambassador, for request of peace. In the year 1409. the Great Master gave his personal assistance in the Counsel of Pisa, assembled to quench the Schisms, which were then crept into the Church, and the guard of the Conclave was committed to the great Master, when Alexander the fifth was elected Pope. The said Master was likewise at the general Counsel of Constance, where three Popes were deposed, and Martin 5. elected, an. 1414. the guard of the Conclave being then again given to the great Master. traveling into France, he held a general assembly of his knights at avignon, afterward at Florence, and last at Ancona: whence returning to Rhodes, an. 1420. he held there a general chapter, and in the beginning of june, 1421. he died. 1321. 34 And then in the deads' place, Anthony de Flwiano, or the Rivers, This Anthony de Rivers was sent for to Rhodes, he being then chief Commander of the Brotherhood, at S. john's of jerusalem, in Saint john's street. reported to be a native of Arragon (but more say of England) was created Great Master. In his time began the general Counsel of Basile, 1430. And not long after, the Sultan of Egypt (puffed up with the victory which he won at Cyprus) broke the Truce, and prepared a great Army, with intent to besiege Rhodes. But when he heard, that the Great Master was provided of sufficient strength to withstand him: he left off his determination, and so the Order that way remained in quiet. This Great Master founded, and endowed a Chapel in the City of Rhodes, which (afterward) he made a Church for his Knights. And the 29. of October he died, after he had governed (in his place) with much wisdom, 16. years & an half. 35 The sixth of Novemb. in the same year 1437 john de Lastic, 1437. borne in Awergne was elected Great Master, albeit he was absent at his election, & remained in Awergne, whereof he was prior. Before he would go to Rhodes, he made a general assembly of his knights at Valentia, in the month of Decem. 1438. when he came to Rhodes, he began to build the new hospital for sick people, which the precedent great M. (by his will) had appointed to be done at his expenses. In his time, Pope Eugenius 4. was deposed by the Counsel of Basile, and Foelix the fifth, created in his place, who was held at Rome to be an Antipope. In the year, 1440. the Soldan of Egypt, being come near to the port of the isle of Cast-Lerouge (which appertained to the Knights) and from thence turning towards Rhodes, he was put to flight by an army of the Knights, who had but eight Galleys, and in the Soldans army there were eighteen, and there were slain about seven hundred Saracens, beside a great number that were wounded. This foil did so highly offend the Sultan, that he leagued himself with Amurath, Emperor of the Turks, with intention to make himself Master of the Isle of Rhodes, and to kill, or expel thence that famous Order of Knighthood. Hereupon, in the year, 1444. he came and besieged Rhodes, which was virtuously defended by the Rhodian Knights: and in the month of September the same year, a general assembly was held at Rhodes, to help the ensuing necessities of the Order. So the year following, the Great Master (by advise of the Pope and the King of Cyprus) made peace with Amurath, and held a general Chapter at Rhodes. At which time, the Duke of Cleves passed by Rhodes, in his return from jerusalem, where he had visited the holy places. In the year 1451. a general assembly was made at Rhodes, wherein, the administration and government of the Treasure, and whole Fraternity, was given to the Great Master: who in anno 1452. after the death of Amurath, renewed the peace with Mahomet the second his son. And yet the year following, Mahomet became Master of the City of Constantinople, the 29. of May: when (being not a little proud of this fortunate success) he sent to the great Master of Rhodes, that he should pay him (yearly) two thousand Ducats, in name of tribute, otherwise, he purposed not to hold (any longer) the peace sworn between them. Whereunto the great Master made a courageous answer, to wit: That neither his Religion, the Isle of Rhodes, nor himself were subjects to any, but God and his Church, and that he would never pay Turk any tribute, being rather resolved to die (both he and all his Knights) then to endure Christian liberty (which ever had been free) to come now (by his means) into thraldom. Whereupon, he sent Ambassadors to the Pope and Christian Princes, to entreat supply from them, against the perjured Mahomet. And in the year, 1454. the 19 day of May, he died, having valiantly governed his Order sixteen years, six months, and thirteen days. 36 jacques de Milly, borne in Awergne, 1342 whereof he was Prior, succeeded as Great Master the first day of june 1454. being in his Priory when he was elected, & his Nephew George de Boisrond, brought him first tidings thereof. Whereupon he immediately went to Rhodes, and held a general Chapter the same year, in the month of November. In the year 1456. the Isle of Rhodes was greatly afflicted with Pestilence and Famine, whereby it became half desert, and to repeople it again, many general citations were sent abroad to all the Knights, to meet there at a certain time. The year 1457. Mahomet besieged the Isle of Lango, and the Castle of the Isle des Sings: but he was courageously repulsed, the Knights having a very happy and signat victory against him; which caused Charles the seventh King of France, to send the Knights (as a gift) sixteen thousand Crowns: The Bailiffs, Commanders, and other Officers of the Order, being then enjoined (by a general Chapter) to come to Rhodes, for more secure and strong defence thereof. The seventeenth of August 1461. the Great Master died, having (with much providence) governed his charge in hard and troublesome times, seven years, two months, and sixteen days. He was greatly lamented, because he was very benign, affable, and humane, desirous to preserve peace and unity among his worthy brethren. 1461. 37 Peter Raymond Zacosta, born in Arragon, and Castileon d'Emposta, was created Great M. next; he being then absent in Spain; but at his coming to Rhodes, by a general Chapter there holden, the eight language of Castille and Portugal, was then admitted into the Order. For till that instant, there were but seven languages there before; to wit, three of France, Awergne, and Provence; one of Italy, one of Arragon, one of England, and one of Allemaigne or Germany. The year 1464. the Venetians Army besieged the City of Rhodes: but the siege was soon raised, and the Venetians returned home to their Country, the war being appeased by the wisdom of the Greatmaister, who caused the Tower of Saint Nicholas to be built, at the mouth of Rhodes Port, in the very same place, where (in elder times) the great Colossus of the Sun (numbered among the seven wonders of the world) had stood. As a help to this building, Philip Duke of Burgundy gave ten thousand Crowns of Gold. The year 1465. the great Turk sent Ambassadors to Rhodes, to mediate a peace between him and the Knights hospitalers: but they worthily refused it, and in presence of the Ambassadors, denounced War against the Turk. The general Chapter being then transferred from Rhodes to Rome, and the Great Master being present in person thereat: he died there the twenty one of February 1467. and was buried in the Church of Saint Peter. 38 Baptista Orsino, Prior of Rome, 1467. an Italian by Nation and tongue, succeeded the Greatmaister Zacosta. No sooner was he come to Rhodes, but he received intelligence, that the great Turk prepared a puissant Army, purposing to besiege either Rhodes or Negropont. Wherefore he sent for a great number of the Knights, that were then absent, to come forthwith for defence of the Island. Moreover, he leagued himself with the signory of Venice against the Turk. Nevertheless, in the year 1470. Mahomet forcibly took the City of Negropont, the last day of july, committing very great and horrible cruelties, killing (in cold blood) all the Latins there to be found, and (by sound of Trumpet) he proclaimed open war against the knights of Rhodes, which enforced them to seek all means for their best defence, providing every way to withstand the Turkish Army. But in this time of preparation, the eight day of june, the Great Master died of a long linger disease, which had afflicted him a whole year together: and after him succeeded 1476 39 Peter d'Aubusson, borne in Awergne, Prior there, & Captain of the City of Rhodes. He being chosen Great Master, solemnly took his oath (according to custom) to keep the statutes of the Order. He visited the whole Isle of Rhodes, and made very great provision, to defend it against the Turks Army: sending for all knights and Commanders appertaining to the Order, to repair thither for defence of the Isle, and renewing peace with the Soldan of Egypt. The same year, King Lewes prevailed to have a jubilee in France, in favour of the Knights of Rhodes, taking order, that the moneys thereby arising, should solely be employed for their defence: And by this jubilee came great store of Money, wherewith Castles and fortifications were builded in the Isle. Truce also was taken, between the Knights and the King of Tunis, for thirty years, and the Knights of the Sepulchre at jerusalem, were joined with the Rhodians of S. john. In the year 1479. Mahomet the second Emperor of the Turks, held a solemn Council, that Rhodes should be besieged with a powerful Army, as indeed soon after it was: in which siege, many sallies forth were made, and the Turks daily repulsed and chased, albeit they were an hundred thousand fight men, and the Army consisted of 160. sail. The Great master was much succoured by Messire Antoine d'Aubusson his Brother, Viscount of Montelis, who was a great Warrior, and a most skilful Captain, he was elected Captain General for the besieged. In few days, the Turks gave three thousand and seven hundred shot with the Cannon, against the City Walls, and a marvelous assault was made of forty thousand Turks: who nevertheless were valiantly resisted, albeit the Great Master received (in this fight) five great wounds, one whereof was thought to be deadly. In the end, so worthily were the assailants withstood, that they were enforced to raise their siege, having lost a great number of their Soldiers, and the Army of Turks returned, (with mighty shame and disgrace) to Constantinople, after they had besieged the City for the space of 89. days. After this siege, Mahomet the second, concluded to come in person to Rhodes, whereupon, a general assembly of the Knights was made: But the death of Mahomet hindered this design, and his Sons Bajazeth and Zizime performed the War, after the decease of their Father, which gave some breathing time of rest to the Knights of Rhodes. And yet Zizime (in person) came to assist the Great Master, withdrawing himself to Rhodes, in the year 1482. where he was received with great honour, and from thence conducted into France. In the time of this Great Master d'Aubusson, the statutes of the Order were reform, and brought into one volume; peace being concluded between the Knights and the Great Turk Bajazeth. The Great Master was made a Cardinal by Pope Innocent the eight, and Legate also into Asia, with honour of Legate and General of the leagued Army against the Turk. Finally, he died at Rhodes, An. 1503. the third day of july, full of honour and reputation, and was interred with great Funeral pomp. He had lived 80. years, three months and four days, and governed the Order twenty seven years, and sixteen days. 1503. 40 There were 387. Knights assembled at Rhodes, when the Great Master d'Aubusson died, who elected for his successor, Emery d'Amboise, Brother to George d' Amboise, Cardinal and Legate in France, Archbishop of Roven. He was a Frenchman by birth, and great Prior of France at the time of his election, Guy de Blanchefort coming into France, to accompany him in his voyage to Rhodes: where he was received with much applause and rejoicing, because the Kings of France and Spain had written very favourable Letters on his behalf, to the Knights of the order. He was no sooner there arrived, but he held a general Chapter, wherein was concluded, that a sumptuous tomb of Brass should be made, for the deceased Cardinal Great Master. In the year following, they obtained a very famous and naval victory, against the Soldan of Egypt, under the conduct of Philip de Villiers, of the Isle Adam, a French Knight of the order, and afterward he was great Master. But this Master Emerie d'Amboise died at Rhodes, An. 1512. 41 And the same year, 1512 410. of the knights were assembled at Rhodes, where they chose Guy de Blanchefort (borne in Awergne, and Nephew to the deceased Master d'Aubusson) to be Great Master. In his time the general Lateran Council was holden at Rome, where Fabritio Carretto, Admiral and Procurator for the Order of Rhodes, was Captain of the Guard to the said Council. This great Master de Blanchefort, embarking himself at Nicaea in Provence, to make for Rhodes; was surprised, (by the way) with a dangerous sickness, whereof he died the 24. of November, a year and two days after his election. 42 In his stead, Fabritio de Carretto, 1513. borne in Geneway, and an Italian by language, was treated Great Master, in an assembly held at Rhodes, the fifteenth of December 1513. where were then present 550. Knights of the Order, the said Carretto having formerly been Admiral of Rhodes. In the year 1516. peace was made between the Knights of Sain● john, and Tomombeus Soldan of Egypt, successor to Campson Gaury, who (but a short while before was slain in a battle, wherein Selim (Emperor of the Turks) had the victory against him. And Tomombeus was as unfortunate, for in the year 1517. he was taken, and strangled at one of the Ports of the great Cayre, by the appointment of Selim. And this was the cause, that the great Master fortified the Isle of Rhodes, to his uttermost power, sending Ambassadors to the Christian Princes, to let them understand the great victories of Selim, the sooner to take order for sending succour. But Selim dying, his son Sultan Soliman succeeded him: and in january, 1521. the Great Master Carretto finished his days at Rhodes, leaving great provision and Munition for war, which soon after did service to his successor 1521 43 Philip de Villiers, of the Isle Adam, great Prior of France, and there borne; where because he also was at the time of his election, Gabriel de Pomereux great Commander, was chosen Lieutenant to the great Master till he came. The very same year of his election, the twenty two day of january, 1521. Sultan Soliman resolved to besiege the Isle of Rhodes, executing the last will of his Father Selim: whereof the Great Master being advertised, he made his preparation (by all possible means) to withstand the Turks enterprise. Diligently did he strengthen the City of Rhodes, sending for supply into Christendom; which as then he could not have, by reason of the war happening between Frances the first, King of France, and the Emperor Charles the fifth. In the month of june 1522. began the memorable siege of the City of Rhodes, which was besieged with an Army of two hundred thousand Turks, and afterward the army increased to three hundred thousand men. The besieged defended themselves most courageously, and very worthy exploits of war were there performed: especially by the Great Master, who (during the siege) did never put off his Armour. The assailants were in many attempts repulsed, and in one of them, twenty thousand Turks remained dead in the place: Soliman having then a purpose to raise his siege, but that there were some close Traitors, who hindered him from so doing, and yet they did not escape unpunished. At length, The loss of Rhodes, to the great g●eef● of all Christendom. the Great Master (receiving no succour) was enforced to surrender the City, upon composition, the twenty four day of December 1522. the Turks having lost more than an hundred thousand men. Soliman would needs see the Great Master, and when he beheld him, tears issued from his eyes, in mere compassion of him. So, the first day of january, 1523. the Great Master (with 50. sail) departed from Rhodes, and took his way towards Candie: after that the Isle of Rhodes had been in the power of the Knights hospitalers, for the space of 213. years, to wit, from the year, 1309. to the end of the year, 1522. After this loss of Rhodes, the great Master and his valiant Religious Knights, had not any assured place of abiding: until the Isle of Malta was given them by the Emperor Charles the fifth. For they departed first into Candie: from thence they went into Sicily and Italy, where the Pope sent them the City of Vitterbo, and where they held a general Chapter. Afterward they sojourned for some small time, at Cornetto, then at Villefranche, and at Nicaea. While they remained at Nicaea, the great Master made a voyage into England, and from thence to France, where being at Lions, a great sickness took him: but after his recovery, The knights of Saint john became Knights of Malta. he went to Cambraye, to hold the Baptism Font for Phillebert Emmanuell, son to Charles Duke of Savoy. afterward, coming with his Brethren-Knights to Malta, on Wednesday morning the sixth of Octob, 1530. he caused a Palace to be there erected, for the abiding of him and his successors, calling it Castle Angelo, building another palace also in the old City of Malta. When he had governed his Order thirteen years, and seven months (being aged seventy years) the 21. of Aug. 1534. he died at Malta, and was buried in a Chapel, which he had builded near to castle Angelo, and then succeeded him by election 1534 44 Pierrin du Pont, a Native of Ast, and an Italian by language. Before the taking of Rhodes, he was Governor of the Isle of Lango, and after the ●osse thereof, he departed (with all the knights under his government) and joined his power in Candie, with the army of the Order. In his time, Charles the fifth Emperor, attempted to go in person to the kingdom of Tunis in Africa; where he was assisted by the Galleys belonging to the Order, and the Knights also, who performed there great exploits of Arms: especially, in the surprising of Goletta, which was held to be a Fort unconquerable. This war being ended, the great Master (aged seventy and three years) died, having governed only fourteen months, and 22. days, and was buried by his predecessor Villiers. 45 Desirê, or Didier de S. jaille de Tolon, 1535 born in Provence, and Prior of Tholossa, was next made great Master: when lifting up his eyes to heaven, he used these words! O my God, if thou thinkest me fit for this great charge, I will not refuse the pain and labour. In his travailing towards Malta, being very aged, so soon as he arrived at Mont-pellier, he fell into an extreme sickness, whereof he died the 26. of September, 1536. and was buried with much solemnity, in the church of the Commandery of S. giles, without the gates of Mont-pellier: when the knights were advertised of his decease, the eighteenth of October in the same year, they proceeded to the election of 46 john d'Homedes, a native of Arragon, 1536. who being then in Spain, made haste to Malta, where he was joyfully received. Albeit, he was discontented, that they had not sent some of the galleys, nor the great Carack of the Order, for his conduct thither: wherefore he disarmed and destroyed the great Carack, which caused many complaints against him. Very often would he discourse of the siege at Rhodes, because he gave general notice thereby, that there he had lost one of his eyes. He made a goodly Park of Dear, and a very beautiful Garden in the Isle of S. Michael, & there would he spend the greater part of the day: which raised occasion of murmuring against him, that he was slack in his public government, and no way careful to provide the Isle of Malta, of needful supplies against the Turks forces, for he trusted too much in the strength of Castle Angelo. In his time, the City of Tripoli in Barbary, was lost by the Knights of the Order, & taken by the Turks, which drove him to no little fear and amazement. In the year, 1552. Leo Strozzi, an especial Commander of the Order, made an attempt upon the Isle of Zoara, which had very hard success, because many Knights were then slain there of all Nations, especially many French, Auuergnacs and Prouenceals. It being declared to the Great Master, he grieved extraordinarily thereat, and said: That a greater loss had not happened to the Order, since the surprisal of Rhodes. He builded the Castles of Saint Elm, and Saint Michael, and being eighty years old, died the sixth of September, 1558. having governed sixteen years, ten months, and xv. days, and was buried in the Great masters Chapel. 1558 46 Claudius de la Single, borne in France, was next created Great Master, and at his election, there were then present at Malta, above 400 Knights of the Order. He governed very discreetly, by Counsel of five worthy Knights his Officers, and attendaunts, (to wit:) by his Steward, Master of the Household, Master of the Horse, the Treasurer, and Secretary. So that the Order was in great happiness, during the time of his Mastership, having obtained the privilege of neutrality, of King Henry the second, and Charles' the fift Emperor, who made War against him. He was very valiant, Religious, and a most profitable Administrator of the Orders revenues, in whose Treasury he left abundant store: dying of a Catarrh, which had much suffocated him, after he had attained to the Climacteriall year 63. of his age. 47 F. john de Valette, borne in Provence, 1561. succeeded next as great Master, and his election was very pleasing to all the Order of S. john, because he was generally beloved of all the Nations, and universally desired, as most worthy of that charge and dignity. In less space than two years, he was General of the Galleys, Bailiff of Lango, Great Commander, Prior of S. giles, and Lieutenant to the great Master, and now at length great Master also. He did so affect his Knights & Orders, that, after the day he first entered in it, he would never more return into his country. So that, by making continual residence therewith them, he passed thorough all the degrees & offices of honour in the profession: apearing still (in all his actions) to be of rare judgement, perfect integrity, and incomparable valour. So soon as he was advanced to this sovereign dignity, he resolved to build a new City at Malta, upon the Mountain of S. Elm, A new City built at Malta on S. Elemes Mount. knowing, that all the other Forts were not sufficiently mumted, to endure the battery of a potent enemy: yet this design was deferred till a further time. He fortified the Castle of the Isle of Goza, and (forsaking his abiding at the Castle of S. Angelo) came and dwelled within the Town of Malta, which he defended most valiantly, against the siege of the Emperor Sultan Soliman, when he was grievously wounded in his leg, in the year 1565. But the siege being raised, to the shame and confusion of the Turks, he greatly strengthened the Isle of Malta, and began to build the new City, which was called Valette, according to his surname, and whereof himself solemnly laid the first stone, on Monday, the eight and twenty of March, 1566. And by the solicitude of the Greatmaister, the building thereof continued on still, eight thousand persons being daily employed therein, and five hundred thousand Crowns monthly paid to the workmen. At length, the one and twenty of August, 1568. the Great Master died, on the like day as he was promoted to his place, having governed eleven years, fully complete. 1568 48 After the obsequies of Valette, the Great Master, they proceeded to elect a new successor, which was Pedro de Mente, an Italian borne, & Prior of Capua. Immediately after his promotion to the Mastership, he caused his predecessors body to be carried into the new City, and to be honourably buried in the Chapel of our Lady of Victory, for he worthily deserved to be surnamed the Father of Soldiers, the Shield and defender of the Catholic faith, and the great persecutor or queller of proud Infidels. This new Great Master, before he attained to so high degree, had made good proof of his Wisdom and valour, in sundry other honourable and worthy offices. For he was first, Patron of the Galley, which was Captain or Commander of the band: Next, Lieutenant General of the galleys, Castillion or governor of the Castle S. Angelo at Rome; he was then Admiral next General of the whole Fleet, and Ambassador for the Order to the Pope's Pius the fourth, and Pius the fifth. He came from Rome to Malta, when he was chosen great Master, and followed his charge so effectually, that the new City was finished, and thither he purposed to trans●ferre the dwelling of the Order. For the good Olde-man thought it as great honour, to dwell in the new City▪ and make it habitable, as it was for his predecessor Valette to build it. In his time, the memorable Naval battle of Lepanto was sought, and victory obtained against the Turks, wherein the Knights of the Order did many worthy actions of arms. The great Master deceasing at Malta 49 john, Bishop of Cassiera, borne in Awergn, 1572 did next succeed him, in the year, 1572. Before his election to this office, his virtue had appeared in divers weighty charges. For, at the enterprise of Zoara, he was ensign-baerer to the Order, & defended the Standard very worthily, bringing it back with him to Malta, when both it & himself were smitten into the sea: yet both of them saved by a Galley belonging to the order, after he had a long time fought undauntedly against the Infidels. Soon after, he was chosen Captain general of the horsemen: Commissary of the fortifications, then, Marshal of the Order, and now last great Master, wherein he lived very virtuously, not letting any day pass him, without some especial piece of service, and feeding (with his own hands) thirteen poor men. With his own money, he builded the great Church dedicated to S. john Baptist, in the new City of Valette, endowing it with a thousand Crowns of annual Revenues: erecting also a goodly Sepulchre, for interring therein the bodies of the great Masters his predecessors. There happened some discontentment between the Knights and him, which shortening his days, he died. 1582 50 And the twelfth of january, 1582. Hugue de Loubenx's Verdale, borne in Provence was elected great Master. He was but a young knight, yet both learning and military knowledge shined clearly in him: For he was in the attempt at Zoara, where he declared himself to be truly valiant, and had many honourable Offices imposed upon him. He dying, 51 Martin Garzes, a native of Arragon, 1595. succeeded him next as great Master. He qualified the discontentmentes amongst his Brethren-Knights, and took away those Taxes, which had been imposed, and interdicted (for a time) the officers of the order, to give a new form to his own government, and to the good liking of all the the Knights. He did expressly prohibit, that not any Knight (nor the Great Master himself) might particularly have any ship on the Sea) to use any Piracies for his own profit. He died also at Malta, and lieth buried in the Sepulchre of the great Masters. 52 The Knights assembling for a new election, the tenth of February, 1601. 1601 Aloph de Vignacourt, born in France, was created great master. In the year 1566. he coming to Malta, with great store of other French Gentlemen, upon a flying rumour, that the Isle was likely to be besieged again by the Turks Army, entered into the order, under the Great Master Valette, receiving (afterward) sundry great charges, wherein his wisdom and manhood was evidently discerned: having been Captain of the city of Valette, and not long after, great hospitaller of the Order. He yet continueth in the office of great Master, a great comfort (we hope) to Christendom, & a terror to the Ottomans Empire, whensoever they shall attempt the hurt of the Isle of Malta, where the famous memory, of that ancient Order of Knighthood of S. john of jerusalem, is still kept and maintained. ¶ The several Orders of Knighthood, both Ecclesiastic and Secular; as they have been, and are yet honoured in this Christian World. Ecclesiastical orders. Knights of Saint james of Compostella. 1070 IN the year 1070. this Order of Knighthood began in Spain, after that Ramirus had won the most famous victory, in the Province of Compostella, against the Moors. At first, their number consisted but of thirteen, and it was lawful for them to take Wives. There was a chief man chosen of this Order, by the Name of Great Master; who (together with the other thirteen) had power to elect other Knights. The badge or note of honour of this knighthood, was a red Cross, carrying the form of a down pointed Sword. At the Feast of All-Saints. was their meeting appointed, that they might confer about their affairs. Many years have they continued, with many privileges, and scarcely any but they (called Augustine's) hold any such laws. ¶ Knights of Saint john's of jerusalem, who were afterward Knights of the Rhodes, and at this day are called Knights of Malta. IN the year 1099. 1099 the City of Jerusalem being recovered against the impulsions of the Infidels, by Godfrey of Bullen, Duke of Lorraine: About that very time, a certain Hospital was erected by the Christians in Jerusalem, consecrated by the name of Saint john Baptist, for the entertainment of Pilgrims. Soon after, was this Order of Knighthood instituted, and the first Rector or Ruler was called Gerard, and the next after him Raimond. These knights wore a black Garment, with a Cross Argent, in a field Gules upon their breasts. In the year 1308. 1308. being enforced from their former abiding by the Turks, & the Isle Rhodes granted them by Pope Clement the fifth, they were (in that regard) called Knights of Rhodes. In the year 1523. 1523. Rhodes being won from them, Malta was afforded them; whereon to this day they are called Knights of Malta. The duty of this Knight-hoods-order, was, to fight for the Christian Faith, to relieve the oppressed, to defend Widows and Orphans, etc. Nor was any one to be admitted into this Order, that was descended of a Moor, Jew, Mahumetist, or any such ignoble race. ¶ Knight's Templars, or Knights of the Temple. ANno Domi. 1117. Gotfredus Aldemarus Alexandrinus, 1117. and Hugo de Planco de Paganis (Godfrey Duke of Lorraine, and King of Jerusalem being dead, and Baldwine then reigning) this order of Knighthood first began; And a seat was granted them in the Temple of Jerusalem, whereupon, they were called knights Templars, or Knights of the Temple. By entreaty of Stephen, Patriarch of jerusalem, Pope Honorius brought in this order, and confirmed their Society; giving them a white garment, whereunto Eugenius the third added a red Cross on the breast. The charge of these Knights, was, to guide travailers on the way of jerusalem, and to entertain strangers. 1310 Anno Domini 1310. Clement the fifth (who then held his See in France) by persuasion of Philip King of France, gave order for the utter subversion of this Knighthood's Society, and all their Colleges, throughout our Christian world, wheresoever they were builded: in regard of a most abominable treachery, by them intended and ratified. Knights Teutons, or Knights of Allemaigne. Soon after that Jerusalem was regained from the Christians, one Teuto a Nobleman, and abounding in riches; instituted this Society of knighthood, building an house (for their entertainment) at jerusalem, called Hospitium virgini Mariae. Among this Order of Knighthood, neither Knight of Malta, nor any other, except a german (and he likewise to be Noble by birth) could be received into their degree. Their garment was white, and a black Cross figured upon their breasts. In the year 1184. these Knights (the City of Jerusalem being surprised by the Sarrazins) Ptolomais was granted them: but being likewise driven thence, they came into their Country of Germany. In the year 1220. they entreated Frederick the second, Emperor, that he would suffer them to take Arms against certain fugitive Idolaters in Prussia: who being by them subdued, they obtained there a new seating, and their Dition or Lordship of Livonia was then added to them. ¶ Calatranian Knights, or Knights of Calatrana. IN the year 1130. 1130 this Order of Knighthood was instituted by Santio King of Toledo, in imitation of the Order of Saint james. These Knights took the name of Calatrana, which was a place granted unto them, where (in former times) had stood a Church, that belonged to the Knight's Templars: And when the Saracens were over-powerful for them, those knights were constrained to surrender this place unto them. These Knights did wear a black Garment, with a red cross upon their breast; and were said to be of the Cisternian Order, holding in Spain very large possessions. ¶ Knights of Alcantara. 1150 THese Knights held their name of a City in Castille, called Alcantara, and were of the Cisternian Order. They had a goodly Temple near to the river Tagus, where they held very ample possessions. Their Ensign or Badge was a green Cross. ¶ Knights of the Redemption. 1212 IN Anno Dom. 1212. this Order was instituted by james King of Arragon, who conquered the Islands called Baleares, or Maiorque and Minorque in the Spanish Sea. It was the Office of these Knights, to redeem Captives, whereupon, the Title of Redemption was given them: they were also called Knights of Marie. These Knight's Order was confirmed by Gregory the ninth, By shop of Rome: And they wore a white Garment with a black Cross upon it. ¶ Knights of Montesia. THis order was instituted, 11●0. much about that very same time, as the Knights of Calatrana were. They derived their name from Montesia in Valentia, where was their place of abiding. The Ensign of these Knights was a red cross. ¶ Knights of the holy Sepulchre. THese Knights (who derived their name of Christ's Sepulchre) did wear two red crosses. 1219 This order (at this day) is quite extinct, or (as some do imagine) the Order of the Knights of Malta is said to be somewhat near it. ¶ Knights of Christ. IN Anno Dom. 1320. 1320 this order was instituted by john the twentieth, Bishop of Rome. The place of these Knights abiding, was in Portugal. A black garment, and a double Cross, were the Ensigns of this Knighthood's order. ¶ Knights of Saint Marie, the Mother of Christ. Certain Noblemen of Bolognia and Modena in Italy, 12●● being much troubled and molested by perturbations among the Princes, desired of Urban the fourth, Bishop of Rome, that they might be suffered to begin some kind of Society. Whereupon this order was granted them, to hold in free and peaceful manner. A little red Cross, reflected with Gold, they wore upon their breasts. These Knights did wear costly Garments, and fared delicately: whereupon they were vulgarly called by the Italians, Frati Gaudenti. They might not wear any gilt Spurs, or use any Gold on their Horse's furniture. ¶ Knights of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem. 1048 THis Order was confirmed, or (as some will have it) restored by Pius Quartus. And yet the Knights of this Order, (are said to be) in the times of Basilius, and Pope Damasus, when julian the Apostata reigned, and then they flourished, as some do affirm. The Ensign or Impreze of this Order, was a green Cross, worn on the left side of the breast. A man twice married might not be admitted into this order. ¶ Knights of the round Table. The Secular Orders. IN Anno Domini 516. Arthur, a worthy and Warlike King, reigning in the Isle of Britain, the Country being infested and troubled with Armies of Saxons, etc. was yet (by him) very valiantly supported, and his fame outstretched to the remotest Regions. Afterward, when peace was established; that other Knightly minds might be inflamed with the like glory: this Order he instituted, which continued (with others) in long and honourable observation. The Order of these Knights was (especially) in the City of Winchester, as some have recorded; and their yearly meeting was there, at the Feast of Pentecost or Whitsuntide. ¶ Knights of the Garter. IN the year 1349. 1349 Edward the third, King of England, having had very great victories against the French, and other neighbouring Nations, did institute this Order, and consecrated it to S. George. The King appointed a Garter to be the Ensign of this Order, wrought richly with Gold and precious stones, which should circled the Leg beneath the knee, and on it to have these words apparently discerned: HONI. SOIT. QVI. MAL. Y. PENSE. The number of these Knights are 26. whereof the King himself is the chief. The time of this Societies meeting, is the feast of Saint George, and celebrated at Windsor. These Knights do wear the Ensign of S. George, (fight with a Dragon) fastened to a rich Chain or Collar, which weigheth or valueth, neither more or less than eighty pounds of English Money, as hath been said in former times. Their garments is Purple, with a red Cross. ¶ Knights of the Star. 1350 ANno Dom. 1350 john King of France, being much moved with the glory of Edward the third, King of England; did institute this order of Knighthood, entitling it by those 3 Magis, who (going from the East to honour Christ) were guided by a Star. The Ensign of this Order was a Star, set eminently in the Hat: and the words were Monstrant Regibus Astra Viam. The founder of this order, being much molested with the difficulties happening in war; could not perfect what he had instituted. And therefore (within a short while after) this Order ceased. ¶ Knights of the Band. 1367 IN the year 1367. this Order was instituted ●y Alphonsus' King of Spain, the Son of Ferdinand and Constance. These Knights did wear a certain red scarf or Band, of three Fingers breadth, which (like a school) was fastened on the left Shoulder, and so come underneath the right Arm, thwart the body. Into this Order, younger borne brethren only (of Noble descent and Family) and none of the elder, might be admitted. Many Articles (belonging to this order, and to be observed by these Knights) are at large set down by Sansovino. ¶ Knights of the Annunciation. ANno Dom. 1409. 1409 Amades or Amadeus, as some write, the sixth, surnamed The green Earl of Savoy, devised this Order, who were termed Knights of the virgin Mary, and for this reason instituted: because Amades the first Earl of Savoy, (with wonderful fortitude) defended Rhodes against the Turkish powers, in his memory it was thus celebrated. A Chain or Collar (such as Knights use to wear, made of Gold and Silver plates, and fastened together with little links) each man had about his neck, with these Letters engraven thereon, F. E. R. T. that is, Fortitudo eius Rhodun tenuit. Thereat hung also (by another small Chain) the Picture of the Virgin Mary, with the Angel's salutation. ¶ Knights of the golden Fleece. 1429. IN the year 1429. Philip, surnamed the good Duke of Burgundy, instituted this Order, and dedicated it unto Saint james. The number these Knights were twenty four, whereof the Duke of Burgundy was the chief. They used to wear the Picture of a Golden Sheep, affixed to a Chain, inter-woven like flames of fire. Charles the warlike Duke of Burgundy (who also is said by every one, to be the first Founder of this Order) added thereunto these words: Aute ferit, quam flamma micet. But now at this day, the Knights have these words: PRETIUM NON VILE LABORUM. ¶ Knights of Saint Michael. 1469 IN the year 1469. Lewes, the eleventh King of France, instituted this Order at Amiens, and dedicated it to S. Michael. The beginning of this Society, consisted of a Band of Men, to the number of thirty six, the very chiefest and Noblest Peers of the kingdom, being Knights clear from all detection; and the very chief of them was the King himself. At this day, there are a great number of these Knights, and the kingdom of France is not now so respective in their election, as at the first. These knights wear a Chain of gold daily, woven like little shells, valueing two hundred Crowns: And thereat hangeth the picture of Saint Michael, fight with the Devil, the Words being these, Immensi tremor Oceani. These knights did use to meet every year, at the Feast of S. Michael, in the Church of S. Michael on the Mount. Their garments by Henry the second, king of France, were appointed in very honourable manner. Knights of S. Stephen. In the year, 1561. this Order was instituted by Cosmo de Medici's, Duke of Florence, 1561. and the same confirmed by Pius Quartus. The Ensign of these knights, was a red Cross, worn on a black garment. The Statutes of this Order, do not much differ from them of Malta knights: and they were allowed to have wives. The Duke of Florence, is always the chief of this Order, and it is not to be censured by any of the religious degrees, but properly it doth hold a freedom in liberty. Knights of the holy-ghost. In the year, 1578. Henry the third, 1578 king of France, instituted this Order, and named it of the holy-ghost: the memory whereof, was to be celebrated in the time of Pentecost: upon which day, the King was borne, and succeeded also in the Kingdom. These Knights are an hundred in number, and the King himself is the Precedent. This Feast is celebrated yearly the first day of january, in the Augustine's Church in Paris, by the Parisians. The Ensign of these Knights, is a Dove (in which form the holy-ghost appeared) in midst of a Cross. The last or lowest degree of Knighthood, is theirs, who (as reward of their Virtues) have golden Spurs put on their heels, and vulgarly are called Knights. Concerning Knights Bannerets, who had that Title given them by the Kings of England in War: And Knights of the Bath, they being also created by the Kings of that kingdom: because they are of another Nature, I pass them over, without using any further speech of them. ¶ Of the Emperor of Ethyopia, called Prete-Ian, or Prester-Iohn: Of his Original, and customs of his people. Sabellic. lib. 8. de Suplem. Chron. THe great Emperor of Ethyopia, to whom we (corruptly) give the name Prester, or Presbyter john, is neither Priest or Sacrificer, though he be (by some) called Prete-Ian, and (by his own people) named Beldugian, that is to say, joy of incomparable excellency, or of most great value, and by others of them, he is also called jan, which (in their language) signifieth Mighty. The power of Prester-Ian. He commandeth over seventy and two Kings, who are all of different languages, having their diversity of customs, and the colour of their faces or complexions are much disagreeing. He is able to levy in preparation for war, a million of fight men: five hundred Elephants, with their armour and munition for encounter, with an infinite number of Horses and camels. His souldi●●s Armour fo● t●●ir defence. His Knights or warlike Soldiers, enter armed to the battle each wearing a long coat of Mail, stretching down closely to their thighs a Salad or headpéece on the head, a round Target or Pavois, a crooked Falchion by his side, and a Lance with two Steel points or Pikes. Such as have no Salads or headpieces, do wear thick red quilted Caps on their heads, plated after the manner of the Mameluke Soldiers. The younger sort carried Darts▪ Arrows and Slings, observing the same discipline, and be as obedient or well governed, in ranging their battles as we are. They use Drums of Brass, and Trumpets also, to encourage their soldiers to the fight, which is performed with great hardiment, appointing likewise sundry honours and respective rewards, to such as declare themselves to be of highest merit. They do daily pay the families of their warriors, and mark the children that are borne of them, with a Cross, which they imprint suddenly in the flesh with an hot iron, so that the sign remaineth, as if it were natural unto them. The exercise of the King Ptete-Ian. The King himself most commonly called Prete-Ian, after he hath bestowed some hours about State affairs, when he perceiveth that he is indifferently eased of them: he employeth almost all the remainder of his time, in the study of holy Readins and Histories, which being done, he useth a little exercise of the body, and then entering into his Bath, afterward he takes his refection, alone by himself (as most of our Kings use to do) upon a little Table of Gold, without any Cloth or Napkin, and it is set in such a place as there are divers steps or degrees in ascending to it. He is served by sundry Pages, who are of noble birth, and they bring him his meat (ready cut and prepared) in little Baskets or Panyers. He drinketh wine in a cup of gold, but he hath another kind of drink, His diet & manner of life. made of sour Apples, and mingled with Sugar, which he receiveth in a cup of Crystal. While he feedeth, three hundred lusty young men (chosen out of the several kingdoms under his Dominion, having the place of Archers, and of his Guard) do stand round about the Tent-Royall: For, by an ancient custom it hath been kept, that the King continually liveth out of any City, wherein he never abideth but two days only, and those Tents are erected in such manner, that the back part is evermore placed to the East, and the door or opening is opposite to the West. The usual Arms or weapons of those guards, are Swords, Daggers, and javelinges, their necks and shoulders, being gorgetted with thick skins of Beasts. Four Kings, The attendance and service of the Emperor. who (by commandment) do attend the Court, follow (each after the other) the Table service, accompanied with many Barons and meaner Officers, even from the Kitchen, to the Tent of Prete-Ian, all clothed in silk, Seudal and Scarlet: And there they deliver it to the Pages, who come forth to receive it. The King and all his Court fare deliciously, with Fowl, Fish, and all kinds of Venison. So soon as he hath dined (for he never sups but on Festival days) his eunuchs go to fetch divers Queens (according to their several quarters, being the Wives of the forenamed Kings, to wait on the Queen and Wife to Prete-Ian, conducting her unto his Tent, The wives of the Emperor. to give him pleasure and contentment, and there they sing and Dance in his presence. He hath four wives, who are the daughters of his Neighbour-Kings, but he lodgeth but with one of them, to whom he is solemnly married with many Ceremonies: but if it chance, that he have no children by her, than he calls to his bed one of the other. When he purposeth to show himself in public, his face is covered with a Veil of Taffeta, which he lifteth up and pulleth down, that hardly can his face be wholly discerned: but if it be, it is very quickly covered again. He useth to show himself unto the people, three times in the year, that is to say, on the days of Christmas, Easter, and the holy Cross in September▪ and (for this purpose) is a goodly high scaffold duly prepared. The Original of the Ceremony The cause of this ceremony, received Original from David Prete-Ian, Surnamed Alexander, whose death was three whole years concealed by his chief Servants, that governed the kingdom in his time. Therefore, to avoid all the like succeeding inconveniences, the father of David Prete-Ian, at the earnest entreaties of his people, began first to show himself on these ordained days, which hath conrinually ever since been observed, even to Panusius Prete-Ian, which is now reigning in Ethiopia: only excepted, when he marcheth in war, for than he goeth daily discovered. He is crowned with a precious Diadem, The Emperor's Crown Sceptre, and habit. the one part whereof is Gold, and the other Silver, and carrieth (instead of a Sceptre) a Cross of Silver in his hand: All his Servants are marked with a Cross, in the very flesh on the right shoulder. He is clothed with rich garments of frizzled Cloth of Gold, wearing a shirt of silk, with very large and w●de sleeves, as Dukes in elder times were wont to do: And from the Girdle downward he weareth a wide Kirtle of silk and cloth of gold, with a Linen cover-ture after a bishop's manner. On either side of him go two Pages, richly apparelled, each holding a Cross of Silver in the one hand, and a naked sword in the other. His Lords, who are as Kings, and carry that Title, do pay him tribute of Gold and other metals, of horses and great Cattle of several kinds: The Emperor's tribute by his Kings. likewise of cloth of Gold, and of wool, according to the quality and best Nature, of those countries that are under their government: which rights and Tributes they have from their Subjects, although they be vassals (indeed) to none but Prete-Ian, himself and to whom they yield the greater part of their substance. Some do pay him large quantities of Corn, and of Salt, Tributes in general of his people. for the maintaining of his Armies: Others do bring him Pepper, which is a rare commodity in that Country, and some do pay him slaves. The Rustics or country Bo●●es, who live in the wild and silde-frequented Forests, do bring unto the Court, great store of Lions, Tigers, and other living savage beasts, which are afterward shut up into apt appointed places, to yield pleasure and delight to him and his Princes. As for such as dwell further off from the Court▪ it is sufficient for them to bring the skins of such beasts only wherewith the Abyssines do (in a bravery cloth) themselves, when they go to war. This Great Emperor Prete-Ian, governeth many Countries, and boundless Seas, whereof, because this place alloweth me not to make any large discourse, as also of the main matters of State concerning his kingdoms: I refer ye to the General History of the World, where, whatsoever I am compelled in this Chronicle to abbreviate (not only of this Emperor, but of all other kingdoms whatsoever) shall be at large described. Let it suffice then, that I close up this report, with the only glories of Prete-Ian, and his Ethiopians, The only glories of Prete-Ian his Ethiopians. which are, that they do repute themselves to be the very ancientest Nation, among men, because they have always lived in their innated liberty, and were never conquered, either by Semiramis, nor Hercules, nor Dyonisius, nor the romans: but that they themselves vanquished King Cambyses, and overthrew his potent army. Hereto they add a more true and eminent glory indeed, which is, that they were one of the first Nations, in receipt of the Christian faith, well near from the very beginning thereof. By means of the Eunnuch to the famous Queen Candace, who was baptised by S. Philip: And that since their conversion, they have constantly kept the same Religion, for so many hundreds of years. Aibeit▪ that during this time they have been generally (even as yet they are at this day) mollested, assaulted, and environed with Moors, Sarrazins, and the Idolatrous Worshippers of Mahomet, yet notwithstanding all those cruel Tempests (which heretofore destroyed the Roman Empire, and the very greatest part of Christendom) Ethiopia could never hitherto be spoiled, either of their Dominion or Religion, albeit some Idolatrous mixture hath crept thereinto. Which is the less to be marveled at, if we may credit their own saying, in alleging their constancy and antiquity, Whence the Ethiopians de derive their antiquity. because they derive this their noble Original and continuance, from the Royal Kings David and Solomon, of whom the most blessed Virgin Marie (Mother to our Saviour) descended, and he himself according to the flesh: Of whom they keep a very solemn memory, and (above any other of the Apostles) think reverently of S. Thomas the Apostle. Of the Kingdom of Persia. PErsia hath carried the same name, from the beginning to this day, containing in it these Regions, Lar and Requelmall. The chief City of Persia. The principal City thereof is called Sirrah, in elder times termed Persipolis, which is governed by the Sophy, Great Lord of all Persia, and Azimia, called by our elders Assiria; and the Kingdom of Dearbech, sometime named Mesopotamia; And Seroan, that was Media; and Parthia, now called jex; with Hirca, now termed Coraxan; Sarmania, now Dulcendano; and Asia, now at this instant called Hetti. All these several Regions, with the greater Armenia, which is a part also of them, are governed by the great Sophy, The government of the great Sophy. and their greatest or chiefest City is named Tauris, being built in the midst of the Mountain Taurus, four days journey off from the Caspian Sea. Next unto Tauris, there are other Cities, as of Soltavia, Concassan, Spahan, Corazan, Lera, Mora, Sarmachand, Gesti, Far, Sirrah, and Ormuz, a City in the Persic Sea, which at this day is called Mare Misindia. In this City is great commerce of Merchandise, Fishing for Pearls. made with the Portugals, and there they fish for great abundance of Pearls. There are other Cities also, Cureh, jex, Casmine, Coy, with infinite Castles. On the West side of Tauris are the Caspian Mountains, which are now called the Mountains of Arath; And on the Bacchan Sea, anciently named the Caspian Sea, are these Cities, Sumacchia, Derbent, Bacchan, and Mamutaga. All these Provinces and their Regions, are very barren, because they have small store of Rivers, the greatest whereof is called Bindarin, but in former times they entitled it Bragada. Concerning the government observed among the Persians, Of the Persian government, and nature of the people. it differs far from all the other Mahumetists; because they hate Nobility, and relying on the servile fidelity of slaves, either murder their Friends and Kindred, or put out their eyes. But among the Persians, the Sophy is highly respected, Nobility had in Honour, and many wealthy Lords are living amongst them, whereof not one is to be found in the Turkish Dominions. The people also are the very civilest in all Asia, men of undaunted courage, and special good Warriors, both on Horseback and foot: affecting Music, Learning and Poesy, wherein some attain to no mean excellency, and they are much addicted to the study of Astrology. So much in brief concerning the Persians, the rest remaineth to our General History of the World. ¶ Of the Kingdom of Thunis. THE City of Thunis or Tunis being very great, was by the Latines called Tunetum, and of the Arabians Tunus: but they hold that name to be a very corrupt vocable, because (in their Language) Tunus doth not signify any thing. This City was anciently called Tharsus, as that other in Asia, and was at first but a very little City, builded by the Africans, upon the Lake which was form from the Goletta, distant from the Mediterranean Sea, about twelve miles. The ancient name of Tunis. But after that Carthage was destroyed, then did those Cities begin to increase, both in number of habitations and dwellers: in regard that the Armies which surprised Carthage, being unwilling to tarry there (for fear of fresh supplies from Europe) came to abide at Tunis, and there they builded many Houses. Not long after, there came thither a Captain, named Hucha di Vtmen, who gave them to understand, that an Army ought not to shut up itself, in any City that should touch or be near unto the Sea: And therefore they made a City, which they named Cairoan, Cairoan, a new City builded. about the distance of thirty six miles from the Sea, and accounted to be an hundred miles from Tunis. Then did the Armies forsake Tunis, and inhabited this new City; other people governing those houses in Tunis, that had been abandoned by the Armies. After this, about three hundred and fifty years, Cairoan destroyed by the Arabes. the City of Cairoan was destroyed by the Arabians, so that the Rector or Ruler thereof fled thence into the West, and reigned in Buggia, as also over all the neighbouring parts: but there remained still in Tunis, a Family or kindred of the said Rector or Governor, fled from Cairoan, who still possessed the same, as Sovereign Lords thereof. About ten years after, they of Buggia were expulsed by joseph, the son of Tessino: but beholding the humility and kindness of the said Lord, they left the State unto him, which continued in tranquillity, so long as the Family of joseph reigned. But Abdull Mumen, King of Morocco, having regained Mabdia, which had been taken by the Christians; passed homeward in his return by Tunis, where he took the government upon him: And all the time that Abdull Mumen lived, Tunis governed by the Kings of Morocco and joseph his Son, with their Successors, jacob & Mansor, Tunis continued in peace under the rule of the Kings of Morocco. After the death of Mansor, his Son Muhamet Ennasir, moved War against the King of Spain, but was overcome and forced to flight, escaping back to Marrocco, where (after this foil) he lived but few years. Then was his Brother joseph elected King, who was slain by certain Soldiers to the King of Tebesm. Now in the Interim, between the overthrow of Muhament, his death, as also the murdering of his Brother joseph, the Arabians returned back on Tunis, and besieged it: But the Governor of Tunis, Tunis besieged by the Arabes. gave notice thereof to the King of Morocco, that if he sent him not some immediate succour, he should be constrained to deliver the City to the Arabes. The King well considering on a case of such importance, did as became a man of his high spirit and experience, electing (above all other in his Court) one borne in Civil, a City of Granado, named Habdulnaihidi, whom he forthwith sent thither, with the same authority, as if he had gone himself in person. Being accompanied with twenty goodly great Sips, Tunis delivered from the Arabes. he arrived at Tunis, which was then even half vanquished by the Arabes: But by his wisdom, providence, and flowing eloquence, he foiled the Enemy, pacified the State, set all things in good order, and made the Country's entrance sure against all Intruders. After him his Son succeeded, named Abu Zaccheria, who in learning and wisdom excelled his Father. He caused to be builded in Tunis, on the West side of the cities very highest part, a mighty great Rock, and many goodly Palaces in the City, with a beautiful Temple, that had an high Tower on the top thereof, round engirt with strong walls. This Abu Zaccheria went likewise to Tripoli, where his valour won him such renown, and his wisdom made so good benefit of the Country; that (at his death) he left an infinite Mass of Treasure behind him. He being dead, his Son succeeded him, who was an ambitious proud young man, and would no longer suffer himself under command of Morocco; The declining of the kingdom of Morocco, & rising of that of Fez. because he perceived the declining and downfall of those Lords, and that the family of Marino began to get fooling, reigning over the Regions of Fez, as Beni Zeiren did in Telensm, and in Granado. These two great Potentates began to war upon each other, and to contend for priority of State; But by this their discord; the power of the Lords of Tunis increased, so that they went with an Army against Telensi, and compelled them to pay them tribute. Whereupon the King that new arose from the House of Marino, and had been at surprisal of Morocco, sent many rich presents to the Governor of Tunis, recommending both himself and his whole State unto his favour. The Governor accepted him as a Friend, always provided, that he should be inferior to him: And so he returned in triumph to Tunis, causing himself to be called King of Africa, The King of Tunis King of Africa. which Title was thought very desertful for him, because (as then) there was not a more powerful Prince in all Africa, than he. He began then to ordain his Court Royal, with Secretary, counsellors, and a Captain General, using all those Ceremonies, that the Kings of Morocco formerly had done. And from the time of this Prince, even to our days, Tunis held on the same increasing Dignity, as well in habitations as civility, so that it became the only and singular City of Africa. Where now we leave her to our larger History, as also the Kingdom of Fez, because the Original of the one came from the other, and therefore they are the more capable of an entire discourse, which ariseth to a very spacious and large quantity: There also will we relate the condition and original of sundry other remote Kingdoms, which (for the reason before alleged) are in this brief Chronicle purposely omitted. ¶ Of the great Province of Moscovia; As also the Manners, Religion, and power of the Prince their ruling. Moscovia is a very great Northerly Region, containing more than five hundred leagues in length: The principal City thereof being called Mosca, or Moscwa, greater than the City Paris in France, and seated on the River Mosqua. There is a large Stone squared, in the midst of the City, A strange election of the duke of Moscovia. whereon whosoever can mount himself (without beating down) in the vacancy of the Crown; he is held as Prince of the Country, and obtaineth the principality: For very great fights and combats, the Inhabitants have had one against another, about the mounting on that stone. He that comes to be Prince of the Country, doth not call himself King, but Duke, being contented with that popular name, and differeth not in Garments from the other Noblemen of the land, save only, that he weareth a higher bonnet. It is a Country rich in Silver, and so strongly guarded thorough out, Concerning the Country. that not only strangers, but their own native people likewise, can pass no way without the Prince's Letters. The country is flat and plain, without any Mountains: therefore, that which is said of the Ryphean Mountains, and that they are in this Country is merely fabulous, for there is not any such hill at all. There are great store of Forests, abounding with wild Beasts, which are daily chased: and great profit is made (by Traffic) for the skins of those Beasts, as of Hearts, Wolves, Ermines, Martin's, Zubelines, Fovoynes, and divers others. This Province confineth Livonia on the one side, Tartary, on the other, & on the third quarter it hath the Euxine Sea: containing many other Provinces to it, Men for the War. so that the Prince can (in very few days) levy four hundred thousand men on foot, to begin war withal. They drink nothing but a kind of Beer, and yet none but the rich may drink thereof, for they have no Wine, but what is brought from other countries. They be subject to drunkenness, as all other Northerly people are, and Winter is there so sharp, long and extreme, that if any Water be hurled up into the Air, it freezeth before it can fall to the earth. Their Corn ●●uer perfectly ripens, Their drink and Corne. but when they have reaped it, they dry it in their stoves or hothouses, and then grind it. The Spring time is very cold with them and their Summer, which lasteth but two months only, is extremely hot. They have not any use of money, but instead thereof, Their money. they have Plates of Gold or silver squared, without any mark or stamp thereon, which is taken for as much as it weigheth in merchandise. As for their Garments, they go clothed like Turks, in long Gowns or Robes, having narrow sleeves, and girded about their middle: Their Religion. Their buildings and manner of life, differeth very little from them of Poland and Bohemia. They are Christians like unto the greeks, receiving order of Priesthood from the patriarch of Constantinople, saying Service in their Temples in their vulgar tongue, which is the Sclavonian Language, and their Characters are Greek. The abiding of the Prince, The Princes Court. is in a goodly great Palace, in the City of Moscuna, built after the Italian manner, being so strong and spacious, as (in our times) the like is not to be found. There are in the forenamed City, as also in divers other places, men very learned and wise, that did make their abode whereas the Schools be. The Muscovite is Tributary to the King of Tartary, Learned men among them. who overcame them in the year of the World, 6745. according as their Annals do deliver: their Chronologies are not according to our Observation, in accounting after the years of jesus Christ. When the Tartarian Ambassadors do come before the Moscovite Prince, he standeth bare headed before them, and they sit covered. His daily wars. He hath (wel-néere) daily Wars against the Polonois and Scythian, who albeit they are subjects to other Kings, yet doth he much enlarge his dominions over them. Now, although (as we said at the first) these Princes contented themselves with the name of Duke, until the time of his Father now reigning: yet would he needs usurp the name of King, giving himself these ensuing Titles, The K. of Muscou●aes Tules. as his Son also doth the same. The great Lord Basilius, by the grace of God, king & Prince of Russia; Great Duke of Volodimeria, Moscovia, Novogardia, Plescovia, Sureluchia, Tweria jugaria, Permia, Vraquia, Bulgaria; Great Lord and Duke of the Lands in Novagadia the lower: of Cyeruigouia, Rezavia, Riscovia, Belloya, jaroslavia, Bierosolia, Vdoria, Obdoria, Condidia, etc. By which large plurality of Titles, it appeareth, that he is far more potent than some have imagined him to be. But concerning his vassalage to the King of Tartars, he holds it no dishonour to him, He is tributary to the King of the Tartars. for he doth it to this end: That, while he keepeth peace with him, he bringeth (much more easily) under his obedience, all the near neighbouring people, and with the power of the great Tartarus, he is ten times stronger than of himself: For the said Tartarus brings (ordinarily) a Million of men with him to the field, all well appointed for war, with two or three hundred pieces of Cannon, and three hundred thousand horse, etc. Of the Kingdom of Poland. POlonia, in elder times called Sarmatia, is said to receive that name of the word Pole, which in that Language is as much to say, Of the manner and situation of Polonia. as plain, smooth, or even: and so much the rather is it to be credited, because all the Country is plain, spacious, full of thick woods, and very few hills or mountains in it. The Earth is cold and fréezing, whereby it produceth little store of Wine or Oil: but contrariwise, it yieldeth much Grain, and divers other kinds of Pulse, etc. Zechus and Lechus, or Leschus, The first Rulers of Poland. were the first that ever governed in Polonia, or there builded any City & Castle. They both governed for some time, but after the whole race of Lechus was extirpated, the Barons of the kingdom assembling to give succession to Leschus, concluded to live at liberty, and without any farther check or control. Nevertheless, that justice might be administered to the people, Vayvodes, called Paladines. and they governed as necessity required: they ordained twelve Vaivodes or Paladines, which order hath continued in that kingdom, even to our days, but not without great hurt to the whole land. For there was no change of these Officers, but the dignity lasted their life time, although they carried themselves badly in their authority, despising their betters, and evil entreating their Inferiors. Such as among these Vaivodes, were castilians, Commanders of Castles, Captains, judges, and such like great Magistrates, did what themselves pleased, whereby ensued, that this Kingdom could never have any great progression in arms, being oppressed by such petty, and no mighty or potent Lords. But in no long while after, the faction of Lechus (growing in hatred of the Vaivodes or Paladines' government) would needs have one peculiar Prince: and therefore, they made choice of a worthy and valiant man, Gracchus the first Prince of Poland. named Gracchus, who dwelled at the foot of the Sarmatian Mountains, near unto the River Vistula. He builded a City, calling it Graccovia (which is now corruptly named Cracovia) a City greatly blessed, both in beauty and Situation, as also infinite merchandises, which is there Trafficked from all Nations of the world, it being the Metropolis of the whole kingdom. Paladines' chosen again. The race of Gracchus failing, it returned again to the government of twelve Paladines, but with much infelicity: because, in contending for Competitors, divers factions grew amongst them, and (consequently) insurrections in arms to withstand one another, whereby great damage happened to the whole land. Among these turbulent spirits, there was a Polander named P●●arislaus, a man expert in arms, of quick apprehension, and one that could well fish in such troubled Waters. The people revolted all to his faction, A King created again. they made him their King, and he was the fifth Governor of that Province, after the first Lechus or Leschus. After his death, another gallant young man succeeded him, termed by the Polacks, Leschus the second, who proved to be a man of singular prudence: but made old with time, and dying, he left it to his Son Leschus the third. This man made his Son Pompilius Legitimate, but divided the Kingdom among twenty other, that were his Bastards, to the great detriment of the Country. But Pompilius being legitimate, entered into the government, Gracovia forsaken by the King. and (leaving Cracovia) appointed his seat in another City, called Gneza: but finding it too mollestuous, he transferred the State to another City, named Crusuicza. In this City he died of the Stone, according as himself had continually foretold: And the chief Lords being assembled in Counsel, they determined, that no more of Pompilius his successors should reign over them: but (with one consent) made choice of a Countryman, named Piastus, one of no great stature, but strong and well sinewed. This was the first branch of those Kings, that continued to the time of Casimirus the second, & of Lodowick: of which self-same race, were also descended the modern Princes of Slesia. This Piastus accepting the Government, took upon him the Title of Duke only, whose succession coming at length to Boleslaus, Piastus refused the name of K calling himself Duke of Poland. in the year, D. CCCC. XC. IX. he was then made King by Otho the third, Emperor. But the Kingdom coming to another Boleslaus, successor to the former: he was expulsed thence, and died: Whereupon, the Polonians advanced in his place, his Brother Vladislaus, in the year, MLXXXII. by the Title of Duke. But in the year, MCCXCV. the Title of King was taken again, by Primislaus the second, who at first was Duke of the greater Poland, and of Pomeravia or Pomerland, and so continued the succession even to Ladislaus, the first begotten son of Cassimirus, who (while his Father lived) was designed to be King of Hungaria, and of Bohemia. The descent of the kings of Poland. He took in Marriage Anne, Daughter to the King of France, by whom he had Lodowick and Anne. Lodowick succeeded his Father in both his Kingdoms, and took to Wife Marie, Sister to Charles the Emperor. But in the year of Christ, 1492. the Barons of Polonia (at a diet) elected, after the Death of Cassimirus, his Son john Albertus. His continuance was but a while, therefore by the greater part of the Barons, Alexander Great Duke of Lithuania, was elected: who going in Arms against the Tartars, died in Vilua, aged five & forty years. Sigismond, his younger Brother, succeeded him, Anno 1500. who had the Title of King, Anno 1506. and made great War upon the Neighbouring Nations, especially on the Moscovites, of whom he slew thirty thousand, in the year, 1514. He deceasing, Augustus Sigismond took his place: and after him, Henry the third, Brother to Charles the ninth, King of France, was chosen and made King. Henry heir of France, King of Poland. But his Brother dying, and he affecting his paternal kingdom, (more than the other) forsook Poland, and went into France to his rightful Inheritance. The Polanders being thus forsaken they made choice of Maximilian the second, being Emperor, to be their King: But he not resolving to accept it, and the Kingdom standing on some doubtful terms, Stephanus Battori, Prince of Transiluania, being a man of great valour, came into Poland with a slender power, where he was created King, and so continueth. A brief Survey of sundry other kingdoms, as they were (by command of the Emperor justinian) set down in the Roman Books the juris-prudentia. THe Roman Emperors, in their Imperial Titles of honour and renown, did not only observe & give to themselves, the names of those Provinces won by them, or reduced under the yoke of their Empire: but likewise of such Nations and people, as left their own Countries (in abounding multitudes) and entered upon the possessions of others, to expel and chase thence the Natural Inhabitants, to plant there their own abiding, by bidding them many Battles: in some surmounting, and in others speeding according to the Fortune of War. Of those Nations, I intent to speak in some measure, of their Original, and how they succeeded, because (at length) they ruined the great Roman Empire: Strange nations weakened the Roman Empire. whereto I am the rather induced, to instruct such as are little skilled in Histories (not only Cosmographical, but likewise Geographical) and to show them apparently, how much they have injured the greater part of our Hemisphere. We will first begin with the Goths, because they were the first that forsook their own native Country, which was called Gothia, or Gothland, The original of the Goths. signifying a good Land, it being a Northern Province of Germany. This Land abounded in Grain, Fruits, Cattle, Woods, Rivers, Metals; but especially, in Copper, and Skins serving for Furs. At all times, and as yet (at this day) is to be discerned, the Kingdom of Swessia or Swevia, hath been comprised under the Dominion of the Goths. As the Country was fertile in fruits, even so were the Women thereof likewise in Children, for, as they were strong and of great stature; so had they usually two Children at a birth, which was the cause then, More people than the Country can feed. and so it yet continueth, that they had and have more people, then can well live together, the Country not being sufficient to find sustenance for so many. In like manner, they are very great feeders, much more than they that live in the Eastern or Meridional parts. The Goths perceiving, and advisedly pondering on this urgent case, they levied the more part, of the youngest and strongest men of their Country, to the number of three hundred thousand; and married such as were not, to rid themselves of the charge of Daughters, as well as of Sons, for the Country ordinarily abounded in the Feminine, more than in the Masculine Sex. So, being well provided of all necessaries for war, and leaving a chief commander at home, of the Royal lineage; they wandered abroad through the fields, to win by power, or compass by love, The Goths wander to seek a new dwelling. some new habitation wherein to live. Many Authors, and among the rest Trebellius saith, that the first tidings of this their straiing, was under the reign of the Emperor Flavius Claudius, about the year of jesus Christ 272. And that they passed through Allemaign, Hungary, Thrace, Greece, Gaul, and into Italy. They lost many battles, and won likewise as many against the romans, and other people, maintaining themselves so well; that they reigned in Italy (even in despite of the Italians and Emperors) the space of seventy one years, as Procopius avoucheth. The Goths reign in Italy and Spain. At length they went into Spain, whence afterward they would not remove: For the Catholic Kings of Spain, that then reigned by succession, and reign yet to this present, were issued from the race and line of their Kings, who were (indeed) very generous people. Now it is not to be imagined, that in regard of such a mighty levy of men, the Country of Gothia or Gothland, or the neighbouring borders remained without Inhabitants, or the rule of Kings: For there were then left behind, so many as the Land was able to nourish, who had their Kings in authority over them, and strength sufficient, The reason of the Goths continuance. to withstand any invasion of the Country. As for the conquering Armies abroad, they continued in Honour for a very long time, albeit they lost great store of men in battles, encounters, surprisals, and passages of Rivers: yet were these disadvantages still supplied, by the daily birth of Children among them, because they had their wives in all places with them. Perhaps some strangers mingled among them, who wearing their habits, & learning their language, holp still to supply the fri● of this people. Of the Ostrogoths. Such as have been named Ostrogoths, were people issued of the same country of Gothia, or Gotteland, from a place which is yet called Ostrogothia: the principal Cities whereof are Sche●ng and Lincopt. They used to war alone by themselves, being separate from the Goths, yet ranging the world according as they did. Westrogoths. The Westrogothes in like manner, came out of a Country called Westrogothia, among whom the chiefest Cities, to this day, are Scaris and Vernen. Wisigoths Wisigoths, or Bisigoths, came forth of a Country named Visbi, the principal City whereof i● yet called Visbi. I was the more willing to make this description; because I have heard of divers (who are but slenderly experienced in Cosmography) that do term those Ostro●goths, The error of some young Cosmographer to be Goths Oriental, or of the East; and the Westrogoths, Occidental Goths, or dwelling in the West, and so contrariwise of the other. Albeit they were all descended and came out of the kingdom of Gothia, or Gotteland, as Munster hath very well observed. Of the Vandals. The Vandals, in the erroneous judgement of Procopius, a Greek Author, are said to be of the same Nation, and that all the people of Goths, Vandals, Alains, Huns, and others, (whom I am hereafter to describe) were derived out of one and the same Land, The error of Procopius. and were comprehended all under the Name of Sauromates, or Sarmates, and have no other difference, but by the names of their Captains or Kings. But I must maintain against him, that the land of the Vandals is distant from Gotheland, above the space of two hundred leagues, and therefore they cannot be one people with the Goths. True it is, that this Nation is Septentrional, or in the North, as the others are, and is a Maritime Country, named yet to this day Vandalia: but, as I have already said, very far off the one from the other. This people did (almost) as much hurt to the Roman Empire, as the Goths did, for, The travels of the Vandals into divers countries. joining divers other people with them, as the Alaines, Suabes, & Franconians, they traverssed the Rhine, Gauderichus being then their King, and passing among the Gauls, wasted and spoiled them very greatly. Then went they into Spain, and took possession (in despite of the Goths) of the Country adjoining to the Kingdom of Granado, which (to this day) is called Vandalia, or (by corrupting the World) Vandelusia, albeit the Spaniards mince it more nicely, and nickname it to be Andalusia. But to be brief, they were thrust forth of Spain (wholly) in the year 431. under another of their Kings, named Gensericus, and passed thence into Asia, where they reigned 76. years. From thence they were compelled, in the seventh year of the Emperor justinian, Anno Dom. 528. by the valour of one of his Captains, named Belisarius. The Huns of Scythia, and their travails. The Huns departed also out of their Country, for the self-same cause as the Goths did, about the year one hundred sixty eight, only to seek some Land, where they might live after the Scythians Religion, making first choice of Pannonia: where they always so strongly kept and guarded it, till (after their own name) it was called Hungaria. This people came from that part of Scythia, which is termed Hunos, no long distance from the River Tanais: but it is a miserable estate at this day, and under subjection of the Moscovite. Having usurped Pannonia, they kept it manfully against the romans, and two hundred years after, Attila their King, Attila, King of the Huns accompanied with some people of Allemaigne, as Bohemians, Gepides, or Girpideses, Schlesites, Werlies, Thuringians, Goths, Ostrogothes, and others, making (in all) about the number of six hundred thousand men: passed through Allemaigne, which they much endamaged. Attila, his loss in France. Then went he into France, where he lost a battle, in which perished a great number of his men: this battle was given him by the Romans, Gauls, and certain Goths, allied together, and he lost (as some Authors do affirm) above two hundred thousand men. At length he journeyed into Italy, which he (well-near) utterly ruined: and retiring afterward into his own Country of Hungary, he died within few following months, and on the day of his nuptials, which was in the year of jesus Christ 443. The Lombard's were a Northern people, Of the lombards, and whence they descended. descended out of Denmark, as Eusebius maintaineth: and no other reason had they to leave their Country, but only a desire to win some other. There happened in the time of Seno or Sweno, as some call him, King of Denmark, a very great dearth or scarcity (in the Land) of victuals, and because the people endured it very impatiently: it was concluded by the King and his Council, (to ease the Country of so many men as were ready to famish) that all such persons as were unable, either for war, or labour of the ground, should be slain, whether they were old or young. But this severe Edict being revoked, A very severe Edict. they then resolved, to make a levy of all sorts of people, that (by the help of arms) might travail to find out some other dwelling, so to disburden the charge of the Country. This being put in execution, they travailed so far, and carried themselves so courageously in traversing divers lands: that they came at last into Italy, and there conquered the Country which was called Istria, making themselves absolute Masters thereof. Now, Istria in Italy conquered, and new named Lombardy. because these people were long and tall of stature the Italians and Istrians called them long Barbarians, which by corruption of the word, and succession of times made them termed Longbards, or lombards. Some are of opinion, that under the reign of Valentinian the Emperor, they began to make themselves first known, which was about the year of Christ 385. and that they became commanders in Istria, in the year 570. Likewise, according to Diaconus, the Emperors made peace with them, in the year 730. and ever since they have held that Country, which at this day is named Lombardy. Let it here be further noted, that where (in any History) mention is made of people termed Daces, or Danians; the Nation of Denmark is thereby understood: out of which country, many great Armies have travailed at sundry times, and have mightily troubled divers kingdoms: among which, they continued long time in England, but were thence expelled, about the year 860. The Normans issued from Norduegia. The normans were people of Norduegia, or otherwise called Normania, or Norwey, a Country in the North, being much addicted to cruelty and inhumanity, because they used many great Piracies on the Sea. An hundred and fifty thousand men of this Nation, bestowed themselves in vessels on the Sea, and took possession of that part of Gaul or France, which was then termed Neustria, now Normandy, which was done in the year of jesus Christ, 600. others say 884. and in the time of Charles le Gros. But be it howsoever, they have (since then) kept it against all encounters of the Emperors, Kings of France and England, preserving it still by the Name of Normandy, and themselves reckoned to be people of undaunted courage. There are divers others, that do savour of this their first original, and do yet proule upon the Seas, committing many cruel Robberies. The Nation which we call Swesses, Zuitzers, Suesses' came out of Swevia. or Sweues, who (at this day) are auxiliary to the French, came out of Swevia or Sweveland, a Northerly Region, like unto the other. They likewise (by the dearth of food among them) departed forth of their Country, about the year of Grace 800. and went so far as the Rhine, which they would have passed, but were hindered therein by the Franconians. Thence went they to the Land of the Heluetians, They go among the Heluetians. who despising the Suessians (because they were poorly and wretchedly appareled, rude in their feeding, and not looking like soldiers) suffered them to wander about their Country. At length, perceiving the kind sufferance of the Heluetians, they sought to abide in a certain Canton of their Land. Which when the Heluetians noted, they demanded of them, to what end they thus wandered about the World. They answered, that they were poor people, and sought but to wear out their lives in travail, by delving or labouring in the Earth. And seeing that there was waste Ground in those parts, unlaboured, Their poverty among the Heluetians. or any use made of (it being Hills and Valleys, environed with Lakes) they desired the Heluetians, to permit them to work in those rough Fields, as yet not cultive, and they should receive the benefit thereof, only allowing them but nourishment for their pains. This was all that they seemed to pretend, justifying their requests with solemn oaths and protestations. Their desire was granted, and not long after, the Country wherein they lived, was not only called Suesia, in regard of the Swesians there dwelling: but likewise the ancient Inhabitants had the same name given then, and yet the country is very hilly, and unapt for Riding. How afterward it came to be called the Land of Cantons or Leagues, shall at large be shown in our General history. Of the almains, & whence they were derived. justinian, and other Emperors (both before & after him) entitled themselves Lords of the almains, for having received some victories over the almains. But this may not be said, (as some do) that those victories were obtained against the Germans: For even at this day, when we speak or write, of Allemaigne, therein is comprehended all the Nations, which are contained throughout Germany, and that do speak the Language of the Tentones. But as for Allemaigne, The true Alemaigns of Suaba. or Almains, the Romans never understood, or meant any other people, than those of Suaba. And to speak uprightly, they have ever been the true and ancient Allemaines', as Cornelius Tacitus plainly confirmeth. Drusus Nero, was the first that styled himself Germanicus, for having rather angered the Germans, then foiled them, as divers other Emperors afterward did. Moreover, by Germany is to be understood, nine and forty great Provinces, as well of the lower part, as the higher part of the said Germany, comprising the Country of the Swisses and Heluetians. Now, concerning the Alaines, or alan's, Alaines, what people they were, and whence they came. many have supposed them to be a people of Germany: But therein they were and are deceived, for Ptolemy knew them, whom he placeth in a part of Scythia. Capitolinus bestows them in Dacia: Marcelinus, Pliny, & Dionysius the Poet, gives them a being in Sarmatia of Europe. josephus in his last Book, affirms their abode to be between the River Tanais, and the Palus Moeotides: And saith moreover, that, in his time, the Alaines or Alanes, accompanied with the Hyrcanians, both robbed and spoiled all the Region of the Medes. As for myself, by that which I have gathered, from such as have written on the actions of the Goths: I am persuaded, that those Alaines were their companions, and that oftentimes (in their wars) for their own advantage they sundered themselves from them, as one while they did with the Vandals. But questionless, their descent was from Scythia, according to Ptolemy's affirmation. If we shall speak of the Gepides, Girpedes, Of the Gepides or Girpedes. or jupedes, what people they were, there are opinions enough concerning them. Some say, that they were at first of Scythia, and came thence as the Lombard's did into Italy. But having made a more curious and diligent search, I find, that they were a people of Germany, and called then Gepudij or Sepusijs, and (according to Ptolomeus Matavastus) now at this day, Siebemburgs, that followed the Goths, the Vandals, and the Normands also: being erring and vagabond people, till at length they ventured on the Seas, and went to inhabit the Isles of the Orchades, whereof Thylle is the latest inhabited, as Volateranus avoucheth, and they are now subjects to the King of Scotland. The Original of the Picts, and their coming into the Isle of Orkeney. In speaking of so many Nations, who are all said to be derived from the Scythians, we may not forget the Picts, who (by most Writers opinion) are said to be a people of Germany, that had their Original out of Scythia, descending of the Agathyrsi in Sarmatia, who used to paint and colour their faces, & thereupon were named Picts. Before they entered into Britain, they inhabited the Isle of Orkeney for a long time together, ferrying over into Cathnesse daily, & so multiplying both in power & number, that (getting up further into the land) they possessed Rosse, Murrey-land, Merne & Angusse, whence passing into Fife and Lothian, they drove thence the Britain Inhabitants, who were only poor people, that lived by nourishing & breeding Cattle. This their entrance into Albion (for so was it then called) was in the year of the world's creation, The first k. of the Picts. 3633. Cruthneus Camelonus is said to be the first king of the Picts, & that he builded a famous City on the bank of the River called Charon, appointing it to be the chief City of all the Pictish kingdom. He builded also the town of Agneda, afterward called Edenbrough, of Ethus king of the Picts, and the Castle, named The Castle of Maidens, because the Pictish kings kept their daughters there under strict custody, in all good exercises, till their years of marriage. Concerning the wars, strifes, and bloody contentions, between the Albion Scots and Picts, through all their Kings reigns, till their utter overthrow, and quite desolation of Pict-land, Kenneth K. of Scots. desolateth Pictland. by Kenneth the victorious King of Scots: I refer it to our larger discourse. Only letting you know, that this subversion, and utter ruin of the Picts, happened in the year of our redemption, 839. in the sixth year of King Kenneths glorious reign, & 1168. years after their first plantation in Albion. The Geteses have been, Of the Geteses. and yet are a warlike people, mollested greatly by the Turks at this instant: and yet they found the Roman work sufficient. These are the transylvanians, Null & Moldavians, & their country is near to the River Ister, where it falleth into the Pontic sea. The Bourguignons are held by Orosius, to come forth of Germany, and Volatteranus saith, Of the Bourguignons. that iovinianus the Emperor vanquished some such people, that lived by the River of Rhine. But there is nothing more certain (according as I have gathered by the German Histories) then that they issued from some remains of the Goths, Vandals, and Huns, who being altogether chased by the Romans, threw themselves on that part of Gaul, which is called after their name, and there (perforce) enthroned themselves. For afterward, they could so well resist the romans, that they were constrained to yield them toleration, and let them live in the said Country amongst the first Inhabitants. There they builded Forts, Villages, and Towns, Of their first name. which they called then Bourgs of the Goths & Huns: but being soon corrupted into one word, from Bourgs-Goth-Hunnes, they are now called Bourguignons, as much to say, as a martial people. Aetius, Lieutenant to the Emperor Theodosius, gave them a battle in the year of Christ, 435. and won the day: But it cost him so dear, that he would never after meddle any more with them. About the year, 430. they received and embraced the Christian faith. This people in these days are become very civil, A fair university in Bourgougn and are as much addicted to Learning, as to Arms: For they have a goodly University, founded by one of the Dukes of Bourgougne, wherein many Lectures are read of all the Sciences, to Scholars of all Nations, at Dola the Capital City of that part of Bourgougne, which is under command of the house of Austria, and there they hold a Parliament also. As for the other part of Bourgougne, in obedience to the Crown of France, Digeon is the Metropolitan City thereof, where likewise is held another Parliament: And these two Bourgougnes are maintained in very good peace, albeit they are in obeisance to divers Princes. We will conclude this discourse with the kingdom of Naples, Of the kingdom of Naples. which is a City very ancient and Noble in all respects, and giveth the Title of kingdom to the whole Province, by her own proper name. As concerning the name of Kingcome, I do not hold it to be of any great antiquity, because the normans took it, from the Grecians, who possessed this Province in divers parts thereof, and then it was entitled the Earldom of Apulia or Puglia, as some do yet term it. Robert Guiscard, a very valiant and worthy man, expulsed suddenly the Grecians thence, Robert Guiscard the valiant Norman. and took Sicily also from the Sarrazins, entitling himself Duke of Apulia, and of Calabria, and Earl of Sicily. In no long time after, his nephew Ruggiero or Roger, having conquered the City of Naples, which till that time had been in the Grecians Government, received the Title of King of both the Scicilies', by Anacletus the Antipope, in the year of our Lord, 1130. which afterward was confirmed unto him in good and lawful manner. And from that time forward, it was called the kingdom of Sicily, on this side Pharos, The Sicilian evening. until the reign of Charles the first, when it became divided from Sicily, by occasion of that famous accident, called Vesro Sciciliano, the Sicilian Evening, wherein so many of the French were slain. I find moreover in many good Historians, that Naples hath had three several Names to wit; the Kingdom of Naples; the Kingdom of Apulia, and the Kingdom of Sicily, on this side Pharos. ¶ Of the Kingdom of Portugal. THe Kingdom of Portugal, began in the year of Christ, M.C.X. after this manner, Henry Earl of Lorraine coming thither, Hen. count of Lorraine performed many valiant deeds against the Sarrazins: And his high deservings moved Alphonsus the sixth, King of Castille, to give him a Bastard daughter of his in marriage, named Tiresia, and (in way of Dowrye) assigned him also that part of Galicia, which then was contained in Lusitania. Of this marriage was Alphonsus borne, who was the first that ever styled himself K. of Portugal, The first K. of Portugal and he was the first also that took the City of Lisbon from the Sarrazins. For he having conquered five of their kings in several battles, caused his Arms to be adorned with five several Crowns and Coat-Armors, which ever after continued the Ensign of the kings of Portugal, in perpetual memory of his valour. But he quickly stained this fair fame, with cruelty used by him to his own mother, for, after her second marriage, he caused her to be imprisoned: & albeit the Pope laboured the matter greatly by his Legate, yet could he never compass her deliverance. Which sin was severely punished on him by his enemies, who afterward took him in battle. And then his son Sanctio succeeded him, and after Sanctio divers other, to john, who was the tenth King in direct and natural line. This john was at the first expulsed from his Kingdom, The King of Portugal a Knight of S. john of jerusalem. and made a Knight of S. john of jerusalem: but at length he was recalled to his kingdom, where he made very honourable proof of his valour, and (among divers famous deeds) he took from the Sarrazins the City of Septia. He had seven Sons, among which Ferdinand (for intergrity of life) was termed a Saint. Henry another of his Sons, was the first that found Nova Insula in the Athlantike Sea. He being very skilful in the Mathematics, lived continually without a Wife, and made his daily abiding in a Promontory, which was called the Cape of S. Vincent, and there he died in the year, 1460. But Edward, who was the eldest brother, was made King, and (by wars) he adjoined to the kingdom of Portugal, Zelia, Tigea, and Alcazar in Africa. He had two Daughters, or Sisters (as some say) named joan and Leonora: The succession of the Kings of Portugal. the first was married to the king of Castille, and the other to Frederick the third, Emperor: of whom was borne Maximilian the first, who was afterward Emperor, and Grandfather to Charles the fifth. He had also a Son named Alphonsus, who succeeded him in the Kingdom, and begat john & Emanuel, who was 14. king of Portugal. Emanuel had john, who took to wife, the sister of Charles 5. Emperor, called Katherine. Lodowick died an infant, but Isabel was wife to the said Charles, & he had another daughter that was married to Charles D. of Savoy. After him succeeded Sebastian, who (in our time, fight with the Moors was slain, and the king of Morocco, with divers other great Lords of the Moors. Henry, Uncle to the deceased king, followed him in succession, he being then a Cardinal, & very aged; holding the kingdom but some few months. But he dying, Philip king of Spain entered on the kingdom, resisting the claim of Don Anthonio, being a Brothers-son of the dead King Henry, and so out-wearied him, that he could never attain thereto in full possession. So it remaineth still under the Spanish government. ¶ The Kingdom of Italy. COncerning the Kingdom of Italy, the antiquity thereof, when at first it was called janicula, of janus; Camesena, of Cameses; Saturnia, of Saturnus, Hesperia, of Hesper, and Italia of Italus, with all the Kings there reigning, till the Latins, and those likewise that descended of Aeneas, to the time of Romulus, with the History both of old Rome, and Rome as it now is; it remaineth to our general History. Only we will say somewhat of the Original of Venice, moved thereto by just occasion. A brief discourse of the Original of the Venetians; the foundation of Venice, and how it hath been governed, from the year of our salvation 421. to thi● instant. To the ancient, Right Worshipful, and worthy Society of the goldsmiths. HIstoriographers, who have written of the Venetians, do not agree together in their true Original. For some do write, that they are descended of the Venetian Gauls, inhabiting along the Ocean Sea in little Britain, called Armorica, whereof one of the principal Cities (being a Bishops See) was called Vennes. Others, and among them; Titus Livius borne in Padua, assures us, that they came forth of Paphlagonia, and that Philemon their Captain, (being slain at Troy the great) they went with Antenor into Italy. Others write, that this Nation, having been Neighbours to the Cappadocians, and venturing fight with the Cimmerians; they hazarded further upon the Adriatic Sea in their Fortune. The most common opinion, is of them, who say, that the Hinitians or Henetes came with Antenor, and, People of Paphlagonia in sometime after (by changing of a letter) were called Venetians, or Venetes. First of all, they expelled the Euganeans, who inhabited this Country, People by the inner gulf of the Adriatic Sea, towards the Alps. between the Adriatic Sea and the Alps, and builded the City of Padua. Afterward, by success of time, they increased in such sort, as they would not be satisfied to be Masters (only) of that which had appertained to the Euganeans, (consisting of thirty four fair Cities and Towns;) but intruded farther, to seize on Bressano and Forli. Some report this Country to be bounded with the Rivers of Pau, and that of Add, as also the Lake of Guard, anciently called the Benack the Alps, and the Adriatic Sea. And so the ancient Venetians, in this manner extended their Dominion, both in longitude and latitude, in the most pleasant Country of Italy: but the seating of the places, did daily beget the elder estate of the Venetians hatred. For on the one side, Liburnia, the Country of Croava, between Istria & Dalmatia the ordinary robberies of the Liburnians, and on the other side, the frequent and frightful courses of the Barbarians, did hinder them from any long time of continuing in quiet. For, without these impeachments, this Nation had been most fortunate, in conquering (by the right of War) one of the most goodly and beautiful Regions in all Italy. The situation of Venice, and capacity thereof. Now, over and beside, that on the Southside, it is environed with a most calm circuit of the Sea, and in regard thereof, is the more capable of receiving all strange Merchandizes: So is it likewise wattered with very delectable Rivers, whereby, whatsoever cometh from the Sea, is easily transported to the very Navel of the Province. It aboundeth in Pools, Ponds, Forests and underwoodes, and the whole Land is choicelie fertile in Corn, Wine, Oil, and all kinds of Fruits. It is also plentifully stored with Country Houses, Towns, Cities, and Villages, Castles, Forts, and such like, very commendable for the situation, and enclosure of their Wals. These n●w Inhabitants, when their weak estate began to grow in fairer form: they were seldom exempted from the Wars and incursions of Strangers. For, after many bold insolences of the Barbarians, with continued Wars against each other, even from their very beginning, until the time of Attila: they were yet much more dreadfully encumbered, with the furious assault of the Goths, a temmpest far exceeding in turbulency, all other former disasters happening to them whatsoever: For first, the Huns (a people of Scythia, Mountains in the north part of Scythia, where snow lieth continually dwelling near to the Riphean Mountains) conducted by Attila, the Son of Mandluck, dispersed themselves over Italy, and making horrible spoil wheresoever they went; fell into the Province belonging to the Vinitians. After a long siege, they took the City of Aquileia, and spoiled and burnt it wholly. An ancient city in that part of Italy, called Forum I●lij. In like manner did they ruinate the Cities of Concordia and Altina, and almost all the Venetian Region. At the fearful news of this War, the Venetians were more amazed than any other, and so much the rather, because they had been formerly enured, to sustain their chiefest mishaps amongst the Barbarians. Whereupon, it is said, that (even then) a great number of persons withdrew themselves from the firm Land, to the Isles where Venice at this instant is builded: hasting thither from all other parts, especial upon the arrival of this cruel Enemy Attila. Some (of the better sort of Padua) first began the retreat, and being come to the entrance or issue of the River, which was then very deep, (whence the name of Rialto hath remained to the same place, The first foundation of Venice. as derived of the word Rivealto) they there laid the first foundation of the City of Venice. The meaner people of Paduaj, enforced by the self same fear; fled thence, and began to people themselves in Chioggia, Little Islands in the Sea, and near adjoining. Malamocco and Albiola. Some of them of Aquileia (at the same time) betook themselves to the Marshes or Fens of Grada, and, upon the fresh return of Attila, the people ran (in mighty affluence) along the sea Coasts to the neighbouring Isles. They of Aquileia bestowed themselves in Grada, a place nearest to firm Land, yet engirt with Waters. They that fled from Concordia, made use of Coarli and the Attinois, six little Islands near to one another; which they gave names unto, according to the Names of the Gates of their former lost and ruined Cities: To wit; Torcello, Maiorbo, Buriano, Muriano, Amiana, & Gonstantiaco. The prime estate of the place where Venice now standeth. These several places, where at this present the city of Venice is seated, were (in elder times) very strait or narrow Islands, and near unto each other: saving only that they were separated by the pleasing course of Rivers, which ran into, and returned again from the Sea, according to the changes of his flux and reflux. Nor in these straits were then any dwellings to be discerned, but only of Sea-Fowles, that flew thither from the Seas, to sport themselves upon the Sunny banks; The first builders of Venice, & at what time. and Fishermen also would sometimes there put in for harbour. The Paduans, that took up the Rialto, were the first that began to build, and it was in the very same place, where the first Foundation of the City was laid: namely, the 25. day of March, in the year of our Lord, 421. and second year of the reign of Pharamont, first King of the Gauls or Frenchmen; in the time also of Pope Boniface the first, and of the Emperor Honorius. Whereby it plainly appeareth, that at one and the self-same time, began both the kingdom of France, and the Commonwealth of Venice. And that both the one and the other have continued to this present, for twelve hundred years, very little, either more or less. This City so newly begun, increased daily both in people and buildings. But see what happened upon a sudden, a Greek Carpenters House (or rather he was one of the Shipwrights, Their first buildings destroyed by fire. named Entinopus) falling a fire, consumed in a moment (with a violent & continual embracing) 24. fair new built Houses. Which when these newcome Inhabitants perceived, and fearing that Heaven was offended with this their manner of beginning, forgetting God, and serving their own appetites. They fell all to prayer, and made a solemn vow, to build a Church in the honour of God, and in memory of the Apostle S. james; at which very instant time, a mighty tempest of rain (as suddenly fell) whereby the rest of the new-begun City was happily preserved. That Church is yet at this day plainly to be discerned, with the marks and appearances of great antiquity, even in the very midst of the Rialto: And it was then consecrated by four Bishops, The first Church built in Venice. to wit; Seuerianus Bishop of Padua; Ambrose, Bishop of Altina; jocundus, Bishop of Treuisa, & Epodius, bishop of Vderzo, & a Priest was there appointed, to perform divine service. Noble and rich men the first founders of Venice. The first foundations of this famous City, were men of honest repute, Noble and rich. For the ancient Venetians, at the change of their abiding, brought with them thither their Wives and Children, with the very wealthiest movables which they had, and so (at leisure) withdrew themselves, to places of a more secure dwelling. But being impeached (by incurssions of the Huns) to Till the Grounds upon the Sea Coasts; such as had any means or apt commodity: gave themselves to fight, and to make Salt, or to transport the goods of their neighbours; esteeming the benefit thereby gotten, to be no more dishonest or unbefitting, then to Plough and husband the grounds of others. As for the wealthier sort, they addicted themselves to Traffic Merchandizes with strangers, and by their frequent adventuring into divers Countries, some of them, being very skilful Miners, and well experienced in the trial of several Dor or Metals hidden in the ground, which by industry and endeavour they found in the earth; became Finers or Triers of those Metals, and extracted (from the grosser substances) the purer perfections of Gold and Silver, whereby (in their own language they were termed Orifici, derived of the Latin word Aurifex, Goldsmiths, or Hammer-Men, that (of those refined Metals) could frame Cups, Pots, Rings, Basins, Ewres, or any other needful matter whatsoever, both for the service of God in Churches and Temples, and for the royalty of Emperors, Kings, and Princes. So that, by the consent of divers good Authors, as Livy, Florus, Cassidorus, Trogus Pompëius, and others, The first Goldsmiths known in Europe, were in Venice. the first goldsmiths, Workers in Gold and Silver, and framers of those excellent Metals into such orderly means for use (within the parts of Europe) lived in Venice, whereas yet (to this day) do remain the very best, ingenious and perfect workmen for such matters (according to the judgement of many) that are to be found in any part of the World. Concerning such, as remained more ordinarily at home, for rare and safety of the City, they applied their Spirits, to devise good laws and customs for general benefit. During which time, such was their due respect of justice, and so precise care of equity and right to all men, as, Care of justice and common good. among so great a number of people, there could not be any disorderly differences noted. Catholic Religion they so singularly commended, Love of religion, in especial respect. and the daily presence of some reverend Prelates, who had saved themselves with their Compatriots: that it augmented (among them) a common affection to piety. And their assistance appeared very requisite, not only for the ministry of holy offices; but also for retention of the Inhabitants of this new City, in ancient piety and Religion. Fearing, lest they might be infected with the poison of Arrian Heresy: because nothing else made more spoil and havoc through all the Province, except the Weapons of the Goths and Huns. Such was the beginning of the City of Venice, and in such manner of living, and in such exercises, she spent her first infancy: till (by her Virtues) she attained to greater groweth, and grounded herself in her instant state and condition. It hath constantly been held, that this commonwealth (evermore) retained that form of government which is termed Aristocratia, that is, Aristocratia optimatum principatus. that the most noble and worthiest Citizens, should guide and govern. For although it be said, that it hath been governed, first by Consuls, then by Tribunes, and lastly by Dukes, & Masters of warlike power: yet notwithstanding, all these Dignities, being but elective, and not hereditary, the election should (in right) appertain to the most Noble Islanders, and Gentlemen of name, by whose advise the commonweal ought to be managed, even as it hath been, and still continueth to this day. Consuls, to the number of three, were chosen for two years, The Government of Consuls, and who were the first in Venice. and albeit that this kind of Government lasted▪ for about the space of threescore years, yet we find only but three consecutive or succeeding elections of them. The first Consuls, were Albertus Phalarius, Thomas Candianus, and Zeno Daulo. These men first governed the City in her Nonage, and some are of the mind, that they were the first Authors of the Padnaus' slight, and their retirement to the Lakish or marshy Isles, as also of their first building there. The second Consuls, were Lucianus Graulus, Maximus, or Marinus Lucius, and Hugo Fuscus. The third, were Marcus Aurelius, Andreas Claudius & Albinus Maurus. The names of such as were elected after these, are not to be found in any Histories. After, that the Isles (about the Rialto) were filled with Inhabitants: in stead of Consuls, The creation of Tribunes, and what they were. Tribunes were created, and for their creation, the matter was first debated privately by few people, afterward, it was ordained and resolved in open assembly of the Islanders: that in each Isle there should be a Tribune, and he should be a yearly Magistrate, to render justice to the Citizens, and with severity, to punish their offences. But the remainder, which concerned the generality of the Commonweal: was referred to the general assembly of the Islanders, to be by them determined. Afterward, there was but one Tribune created, for government of the Isles, which continued for some years. Finally, they concluded to create ten, whereunto were added two more, who should dwell in Heraclea: And this Tribunary dignity held place for more than two hundred years. Here is to be noted, that the Tribunes of the Isles, abusing their authorities, did so trouble the State with civil dissensions, as it plainly appeared, that the main body of the City would be dissolved, without some good and immediate remedy. Which gave occasion, that (to hear the complaints of every one) a general assembly of the Isles was published, and their meeting to be in Heraclea. In this assembly, Christopher, Bish. of Grada was Precedent, accompanied with a great number of the Clergy, & after divine service was performed, the first proposition which he made, was, that (for good of the commonwealth) each man might complain of the future Tribune, which being done, and the offences no longer to be endured, for public benefit of the state in general, resolution was set down, Election of a Duke among the Venetians. to make election of a Duke, who should represent all honour and Majesty in the State or Siegneurie, and he should have power to assemble the general counsel, when questions were to be made, of any important matter concerning the Commonwealth. He should have power also, to elect yearly Tribunes, or Magistrates in every Isle, and their appellations to be brought before him. Moreover, if any should obtain any dignity, Prelacy or benefice, by Suffrages of the Clergy or people: that he should not enjoy it, or be possessed thereof, without the good liking and consent of the Duke, whose power also ended with his life. Who was the first D. of Venice. This being thus concluded, in the year, 697. Paullucio was created the first duke, and so hath that Ducal dignity continued ever since. Save only that in the year, 737. after the death of the third Duke Orso: it was determined, that no Duke should be elected, for six years, but that a Master of the armed troops or soldiers should be established, and his authority to be annual, which lasted no longer than five years. For in the year, 742 they proceeded again to a Duke's election, & since that time, the Commonwealth of Venice hath evermore had Dukes and Princes of the signory: by whose wisdom (and his Counsel assisting) it hath been preserved in an ever flourishing estate, even to this instant year, 1611. ¶ A short Summary, of the lives of the Dukes and Princes of Venice: and a breviate also of the most remarkable actions, in the times of their government. PAuluccio Annapesto, was first Duke of the people, chosen in Heraclea. He took his Oath before Christopher patriarch of Grada to govern according to the Laws, and to regard nothing more than the weal public. He pacified the difference which Luitprand k. of the Lombard's had with king Aribert, and made friendship with them both: As well by his authority, as by arms. He brought the rebellious Aequilius under obedience, increased the cities customs and revenues, and died, having been Duke xx. years, vi. months, and viii. days. 2 Marcello Tegaliano, of the same place of Heraclea, was elected his successor, by common voice of the people. He was devout, modest and affable, but much less diligent in governing, than his predecessor. The Patriarchat of Grada was trans-ferred into Aquileia in his time, by Luitprand, and there he had great wars about the dissensions of the Bishops, whereinto he would not interpose himself, but died, having been Duke nine years, and xxi. days. 3 Orso Hipato, a Nobleman of Heraclea, won himself great Reputation by his famous deeds. Paulo the Exarcho had recourse to him, the Grecian Army being broken, and siege laid to Ravenna by Luitprand. He regained Ravenna, made the King's Nephew his prisoner, slew the Duke of Vicenza, and reseated the Exarcho in his due rights. He bridled the Aquileians, who troubled the public peace, and put courage into the souls of the younger sort. He was slain by reason of the dissensions of jesolo, the xi. year and fifth month, of his Principality. 4 Theodato Hipato, son of Orso, was proclaimed Duke five years after the death of his Father: during which time, the people were governed by a Marshal or Master of the soldiers: and forsaking Heraclea, he brought the State to Malamocco. There he was the first created, and limited his confines with Astolpho king of the Lombard's. He was also slain, by Galla a citizen of Malamocco, in the 13. year of his principality. 5 Galla de Malamocco, a wicked and seditious man, yet showing himself as Protector of public peace, he was established in the place of Theodato. But his wickedness being known, and that (being but a subject) he would needs make himself absolute Lord, having before slain his chief Master Theodato: the people plucked out his eyes, and took from him the dignity, which he had a year usurped. 6 Dominico Monegario, of Malamocco, was seated in the stead of Galla. Somewhat to bridle his Duke's authority, the people joined two yearly Tribunes with him. But he, being a man audacious and arrogant, sought to tyrannize over the people: whereat they growing into fury, plucked out his eyes, the 8. year of his Principality. 7 Mauritio Galbaio, a Noble Heraclean, for his justice, wisdom, and wealth, was chosen to this dignity. He made his son Duke with him, and they governed together. In his time, the church of Grada being mollested, he sent an Ambassador to pope Stephen, to accord the difference. The Bishopric of S. Peter de Castello Olivolo was then erected. And he died, having governed 23. years. 8 Giovanni Galbaio, having been Duke 9 years with his father, governed the commonwealth yet 9 years more, and after the said time, he made Mauritio his Son companion with him in the Principality. But they being both of wicked and unsufferable life, having murdered john Patriarchat of Grada, throwing him down headlong from an high tower: Fortunatus, successor in the Patriarchate, made a conspiracy against them, & another was elected Duke. Whereat, being not a little confounded, the Father fled into France, & the son to Mantua, the xvi. year of their rule. 9 Obelerio, being elected Prince by them that had intelligence with Fortunatus, took his Brother Beato as his associate, and Valentine beside (being their third brother) was admitted with them in the same dignity. And it is worth note, that of these three brethren, Beato is only placed in the rank of Dukes in the Counsel chamber of Venice, where as Obelerio incited Pepin king of Italy, to make war on the Venetians: and Beato maintained the commonwealth reigning 5. years. 10 Angelo Participatio, after he had well born himself in the war against Pepin, was elected Duke, the people being summoned to the Rialto. He founded the Duke's Palace, in the same place where that now built, standeth. The division of the Empire was made in his time, & the Venetians left in their own liberty. The City was divided into wards, streets and precincts. The Pregadi, & the Ouaranta, who (for criminal offences) was then instituted among them. He governed eighteen years. 11 Giustiniano Participatio, having been an associate in the dignity with his father, was (after his death) confirmed by the people. He repealed home his brother john, who was then at Constantinople, & accepted him as his fellow ruler: he made the people's authority greater than before, & gave aid to Michael the Emp. against the Saracens. The body of S. Mark was in his time brought from Alexandria, accepting into his protection, & the church remaining at this day, was consecrated in his memory. He died the 2. year of his dignity. 13 Giovanni Participatio remained in the royalty, & enlarged the Church of S. Mark, placing therein a great number of priests & Canons, and appointing a Primicerio to govern them. He caused the head of Obelerio to be cut off, whom he had besieged in the Isle of Curtia. He made war upon the Nauratines', and overcame them. In the end, a conspiracy was devised against him, and being confined to Grada, in the eight year of his Principality, he shaved his head and beard, and made himself a Monk, in which estate he died. 13 Pietro Tradonico of Pola, having carried himself to the people's contentment in the wars against Pepin, was elected duke. He joined john his son in rule with him, & gave succour to the Emp. of Constantinople, who made request thereof by Theodosius Patricius. He was made Protospatary of the empire, in help whereof he sent 60. galleys. Lewes' 2. granted him many privileges, & in the end he was slain by a sedition, in his 27. year. 14 Orso Participatio, having appeased the sedition, was made Duke. The Turks having spoiled Dalmatia, even so far as Grada, were vanquished by him, & Giovanni Participatio his son, whom he had made associate with him in his government. Basilius the Emperor highly honoured him for that good Service, and made him Protospatarie of the Empire. He governed 17. years. 15 Giovanni Participatio, being confirmed in his dignity, took and burned Comachio, wasted the County of Ravenna, to revenge himself on the Count of Comachio, who had imprisoned and wounded to death his Brother Badoario. He growing much overcome with sickness, caused the Church of Saint Cornelius and S. Cyprian to be built at Malamocco; and having governed five years and six months, renounced the Dignity. 16 Pietro Candiano, was elected after the voluntary dismission of his Predecessor. He was a valiant Man, and expert in Arms, and yet notwithstanding, greatly addicted to devotion. He went (in person) with ten Galleys against the Narantines, who (as Théeus) rob and purloined from the Venetians. Fight valiantly against them, he died at the second time, with the weapons in his hands. He governed no longer than five months. Dominico Tribuno, is set by some in rank with the Dukes: but others, less curious in search of the History, have omitted him, because he was Duke but three months and thirteen days, and nothing is remarkable in his time, but a certain privilege granted by him to Chioggia. 17 Pietro Tribuno, Son of Dominico, was elected Duke. He obtained of Guydo, Emperor and King of Italy, a confirmation of all ancient Privileges. The Barbarian Huns came again into Italy, and burned Heraclea, Capo de Arger, and Chioggia. This Prince overcame them, with very much honour, and this was the third time, that those Strangers sought to usurp on that State. He governed twenty four years. 18 Orso Badoaro, called himself Participatio, and was the first that changed his name. He sent for his Son Pietro to Constantinople, and he was made Protospatarie. In the year 920. he obtained of Rodolphus, Emperor and King of Italy, the confirmation of the Venetians ancient authority, to stamp Monies. He addicted himself wholly to piety, and in his 20. year, he renounced the Dignity, to make himself a Monk, and live privately. 19 Pietro Candiano the second, was a worthy man, and made war on Lauterio marquess of Istria, who hindered the Traffic of the Venetians: he overcame him, and reconquered the people of Capo d'Istria. He vanquished Albertus, Son to the Emperor Berengarius, who impatronizing himself of Ravenna, impeached the passage of the Venetians Ships. In his time, Maidens were stolen by the Testaines, to join in marriage with them; but they were soon recovered. He governed seven years. 20 Pietro Badoaro, the Son of Orso, was redeemed by him from the slavonians. He governed but two years and seven months, always in peace, which he much affected. Berengarius the Emperor did him many favours, for his great deserts. 21 Pietro Candiano the third, Son to the second Candiano, associated himself in his dignity with his son Pietro; & at two several times armed 33. Ships against the Narentines; but at the second time, he made peace with them. His son being reproved by him for his bad behaviour; revolted from him, and against the Commonwealth. The people would have slain him, but he was sent into exile: where joining with Guydo, Son of Berengarius; he endangered the Commonwealth. Whereat his father grieving, died in his fifteenth year of his government. 22 Pietro Candiano the fourth, being repealed from exile (albeit the people had sworn never to receive him) was made prince with very great applause. He dealt in such sort with Pope john the 12. that the Churches of Grada was made patriarchal, and Metropolitan of all the Venetians State, and of Istria. Otho the Emperor, granted him many honourable privileges. He ruined Vderzo, and was slain with his Son, in a sedition of the people: having governed 20. years. 23 Pietro Orseolo, was a man altogether devout, and was elected by the people against his will. He would very often walk in an unknown habit, to visit the Houses of poor people and Hospitals. He appeased the dissensions between the Venetians, and them of Capo d'Istria, who yielding themselves tributary. He went with Beato Romualdo of Ravenna, to live religiously. He governed two years and two months, doing many worthy and charitable deeds. 24 Vitale Candiano, Son of Peitro the third, made the confederacy with the Emperor Otho. He fell sick so soon as he entered upon his charge: wherefore he became a Monk, having governed about a year. 25 Tribuno Memo, was very rich, but no man of State. In his time happened great dissensions, between the Families of Moresina and Caloprina, by reason whereof, many notorious murders were committed. He took part with the Moresini, which caused the other faction to withdraw themselves to Verona to the Emperor Otho. He gave the Isle of Saint Giorgio Maggiore to the Abbot of Moresini: And renounced the Principality in his twelfth year, entering into Religion. 26 Pietro Orseolo the second, being a very discreet man, ordered the matter so well with the emperors Basilius and Alexius, that the Venetians were exempted from Toules and taxations. Otho the Emperor lying at Verona, did highly favour him; and, among other graces, to hold one of his Sons at Baptism. He was the first that extended their Confines on the sea, winning many places in Istria and Dalmatia. Having caused the Church and Palace to be finished in his time, he died the ●8. year of his Principality. 27 Ottone Orseolo, having governed some space with his Father Pietro, was confirmed in the dignity, at the age of eighteen years. He won such reputation, that Geta King of Hungaria, gave him one of his Sisters in marriage. In person he conquered them of Istria, who were become Rebels; And went into Dalmatia, in the enterprise against Cresmura. At length, the malicious enviers of his glories, devised a conspiracy against him, and he was confined into Greece, in the 17. year of his rule. 28 Pietro Centranico, or Barbolano, succeeded next to Otho. But having not well qualified all dissensions, as well concerning the Citizens removing, as the other neighbours: he was compelled to forsake the dignity, and make himself a Monk. Orso, Brother of Otho, returned from Constantinople, being Patriarch of Grada, and he was constituted in expectation of Otho's coming. He continued about a year in the palace, and forsook the Principality, news being brought of Otho's death. Dominico Orseolo would then perforce usurp the Dignity, but he was expelled by the people the next morning, and died at Ravenna. 29 Dominico Flabanico, was elected during his exile, by the faction of them that had excluded Dominico Orsolo. In his time, and in the year 1040. the national Council was held, for government of the ecclesiastics. He made the Family of Orseolo suspicious to the State, by his own means, and laboured for their utter supplantation. He governed ten years, four months, and twelve days. 30 Dominico Contarini was very pleasing to the people. He brought Dalmatia to peace, being heavily burdened with the rebellion of Zara. He favoured the Normans against Robert K. of Apulia. And the discord which happened between the Commonwealth, and Pepo Patriarch of Aquileia, was by him qualified. He builded the Monastery on the Lido, and died in his 28. year. 31 Dominico Silino, won himself such reputation, that Nicephorus Emperor of Constantinople, gave him his sister in marriage; by whose persuasion he made war upon the forenamed K. Robert of Apulia, and (at the first attempt) returned with a very honourable victory, possesing himself of Duras. But at his second adventure, he fought with small advantage; whereby ensued the diminution of his credit. He pergetted the Church of S. Mark with Marble, first and before any other, causing it also to be beautified with an artificial Checquer-worke. He died in the 13. year of his government. 32 Vitale Faliero being made Duke, he immediately obtained of Alexius, than Emperor, to have the Sovereignty of Dalmatia and Croatia. Henry, successor in the Empire, did him many great favours: and coming in devotion to Venice, he held on of his Daughters at Baptism. The Office of Proprieties was constituted in his time, and the workmanship of Saint Marks Church continued. He died in his sixtéen year. 33 Vitale Michele, by his worthy adventuring on the Sea, did very far extend the commonwealths limits. He made the Eastern war, by persuasion of Pope Vrban the second, for conquest of the holy Land, with the Princes of Christendom. The Isle of Smyrna, Suria and jerusalem were then recovered from the Infidels. He died in his sixth year. 34 Ordelafo Faliero, Son of Vitale, assisted King Baldwine against the Infidels, in conquest of the Holy Land; and made such progression, as they divided the Empire between them, throughout all the Kingdom of judea. In the eight year of his Principality, Malamocco was almost all burned and submerged▪ by reason whereof, the Episcopal See was transferred to Chioggia; He went in person to the war against Zara, which was become rebellious, and winning the victory: he would needs return thither again a second time, and on the like occasion; where he died in Arms, in the 15. year of his principality. 35 Dominico Michele, being made Duke for his high repute and merit; went to give aid to the Christians in the holy Land. With 200. well appointed ships and Galleys, he made the Infidels to raise their siege from before joppa. He took tire, which he gave to Vaumond Patriarch of jerusalem. Emanuel the Emperor made war against him, from whom he won Chio, Rhodes, Samos, Mitylline, and Ister. He renounced his Principality, in the 13. year of his rule. 36 Pietro Polani, Kinsman to Michele, was a very wise Man, insomuch as he was made arbitrator of the difference between Conrade and Emanuel the Emperor. He made War against them of Pisa and Padua, whom he conquered. He armed himself against the Duke of Apulia, in behalf of the said Emanuel, to whose Empire he added many worthy possessions. Some say, it was his Son that won all the battles, and that himself, being fallen sick, returned thence, and died in his eighteen year of rule. 37 Dominico Moresini, he swept the Gulf of certain Pirates of Ancona, the chief whereof, being called Guiscardo, was taken and hanged. He laid siege to Pola, which he took, with Parenzo; which Cities were become rebellious in Istria. He held confederacy with William King of Sicily, of whom he obtained many exemptions for the Traffic of his Merchants. Zara made the Metropolitan City, at his instance, and he so prevailed, that Dominico his Son was made an Earl. He beautified the buildings of the City of Venice, and began the Tower of Saint Mark. He died seven months after the eight year of his Election. 38 Vitale Michele the second, subdued the Tarentines, which now had rebelled the third time. He imprisoned ulrick Patriarch of Aquileia, and twelve cannons. In an hundred days, he put forth an hundred Galleys, and twenty Ships on the Sea, against the Emperor Emanuel. The great Family of the justiniani, were, in his time brought to one only man, and he was become Religious; whom he took forth of his Monastery (by the Pope's consent) and gave him his own daughter in marriage, because he would not have so worthy a house to be extinct. There happened a great pestilence in his time, the occasion whereof, the people in their weak judgement laid upon him. He was wounded, and died, having governed xvij. years, and xxvij. days. 39 Sebastiano Ziani was the first that ever was elected by the eleven electors. In his time there was a great Schism in the Church, by means of the Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, who caused Alexander the third to forsake the See, Octavian having been made Antipope. Alexander made his retirement to Venice, where having a long time served in the Monastery of la Charita; he was in the end known, and taken thence by the Prince and signory. Hereupon, Barbarossa made war against the Venetians: but his son Octavian being taken, he mediated reconciliation between them. He died in the fifth year of his government. 40 Orio Malipiero, or Mastropetro, was the first Duke elected by the 40. and for that purpose was created by the death of Ziani. He had six Councillors allowed him▪ to authorize his deliberations. He reconquered Zara, that had now the fourth time rebelled. He sent supply unto the Christians against the Moors, who began to usurp in the Holy-Lande, 88 years after that Baldwine had delivered it. Ptolomais was recovered▪ and Andronicus, successor to Emanuel the Emperor, delivered many Venetian Merchants. He renounced the Principality in his 14 year, and entered into Religion. 41 Henrico Dandolo was likewise elected by the forty. They of Zaro were once again vanquished, and Pola conquered. In his time was the surprisal of Constantinople, and the acquisition of the East Empire, wherein he assisted the Princes and French Barons. He died in his thirteenth year, being General of all the Christian Army. 42 Pietro Ziani, son of Sebastian, was made Duke within a while after the death of Dandalo, the Correctors being then first instituted. In his time came Ambassadors from Athens & Achaia, to submit themselves in obedience to the Commonwealth. Candie was then peopled with a Colony of Noble Vinitians. He married Constance, Daughter to tancred King of Sicily. In the end, he renounced the Principality, having governed 24. years. 43 Giacomo ●epolo, was made Duke by chance, in concurrency of Renieri Candolo, who had as many voices as he. Candie rebelled, and the seditious were severely chastised. Zara, that had long borne the yoke, was now reduced under obedience. He had War against them of Ferrara, and against Ezzelino, who would have invested himself with Padua. In conclusion, he gave over the Principality in his twentieth year, and died soon after. 44 Marino Moresini, was made Duke by the one and fortieth, by reason of the precedent concurrence. In his time was another Colony of Noblemen sent into Candie, who builded there Canea. He made War against Ezzelino, who besieged Mantua, and who (in a furious rage) caused twelve thousand Paduans to be hewn in pieces, which he had with him then in his Army. He died in the fourth year of his Principality. 45 Revieri Zeno Podesta, at Fermo was elected Duke, and sent to be fetched thence with four Galleys. Under him, the Commonwealth won a famous victory, against them of Genes: but the contentment therewith was very brief, because Michael Paleologus expelled both the Frenchmen and Venetians out of Constantinople, being aided by the Genewaie forces, which was eight and fifty years after the surprising of the said City: yet once more (after that) the same people were again reconquered: And having governed this Dignity sixteen years, he died. 46 Lorenzo Tiepolo was made Duke, in memory of the victory he had against them of Genes at tire: he allied two of his Sons, (very Nobly) with two strange Ladies: by reason whereof, a Law was then made, that the like might not afterward be done. He brought Servia in obedience to the Commonwealth, and the Bolognians were vanquished by him: he governed seven years, and xxv. days. 47 Giovanni Contarini, being aged eighty years, and Attorney of S. Mark, was made Duke. The Law against illegitimates was then enacted, and they excluded from all public offices. There were some rebellions moved in Istria, and by them of Genes, but they were quickly appeased. At length, through unwieldinesse of age, and by advise of the Senate, he gave over the dignity, having governed four years, and six months. 48 Giovanni Dandolo was elected, being then absent. The City was (in his time) much afflicted by water, and an Earthquake. He made war in Istria, against the Patriarch of Aquileia, & the Count of Goritia. At the instance of pope Nicholas, he assisted the Archbishop of Tripoli with 25. galleys. He died seven months after his viii. year of rule. 49 Pietro Gradanigo, a man of great courage, delivered the commonwealth from two important dangers. One, was a high disgrace, which happened in a battle against them of Genes: The other, was the conspiracy of Baiamonte, which was boldly checked with weapon in hand, upon the place of S. Mark. It was then ordained, that Noblemen only should govern, and the counsel of ten was then instituted. Having ruled 22. years and nine months, he died. 50 Marino Giorgio, was a man of such life, that they termed him a Saint. Venice was continually excommunicated in his time, by reason of the taking of Ferrara. Zara rebelled again the sixth time, and much labour it cost to reduce it under obedience again. After, he builded the Monastery of S. Dominick, and died (aged 81. years) in his first year, having governed ten months, and ten days. 52 Giovanni Soranzo, had the honour of recovering Zara, and many other places, which had revolted in his Predecessors time. Negropont, was reobtained, and War afresh commenced against them of Genes. The excommunication was quitted from Venice, by the interposition of Francisco Dandolo, kneeling before the Pope, with a Chain of iron about his neck. The number of Attorneys of S. Mark, was increased to six. He governed sixteen years, and six months. 52 Francisco Dandolo, who had so lowly humbled himself for his countries good, was therefore exalted to her highest Dignity. They of Pola, and of Valesia, submitted themselves to the Commonwealth, which gave way unto the war against the Patriarch of Aquilea. Padua was taken on Albert Scaliger, and Treuisa and the County remained to the Commonwealth. This man was of the league with the Christian Princes, against the Turk, and in his time were sixty several Ambassadors at Venice. He governed ten years, and ten months. 55 Bartolomeo Gradenigo, Attorney of Saint Mark, was made Duke at 76. years of age▪ by the intercession of Andrea Dandolo, and his cessation. In his time was Venice miraculously delivered from a mighty imminent inundation. Candie rebelled, and the Rebels were severely punished. There happened a great Dearth in the City, which drove the people to discontentment. He died in his fourth year. 54 Andrea Dandolo, who had before resigned his place to Gradenigo, caused the dearth for to cease, by sending for great store of Corn out of Sicily. He obtained of the king of Babylon, free Navigation into Egypt. Zara rebelled the seventh time, and was reprized. The War between them of Genes and the City, was troubled by two great accidents: One, was an earthquake very dreadful, and the other, was a grievous Pestilence. He governed twelve years, wanting some few months. 55 Marino Faliero, was elected Duke, being then Ambassador at Rome. Having received an injury by some particulars, which was not revenged according unto his own desire: he determined in the eighty year of his age, to make himself absolutely Lord, without any control. The Conspiracy being discovered by Nicholo Lion; he had his head smitten off within the Palace. And it was ordained, that his Picture should not be placed among the other Dukes, but the place being left void, had only this Writing. This is the place of Marino Faliero, who, for his grievous offence, had his head cut off: he was Duke but ten months. 56 Giovanni Gradenigo had an excellent spirit, but a much misshapen countenance. The War was renewed against the Genes, which tearmined with a mutual peace. He had war against the King of Hungary for Dalmatia. Treuisa was besieged in his time, and thither he went in person. He governed one year, three months and fourteen days. 57 Giovanni Delfino, was elected Duke when he was in Treuisa, defending it against the King of Hungary. The Senate sent to demand free passage for him, which being denied, he came forth with 200. horse to beard the enemy, & so attained to Margliera, where the Senate in person received him. In short time he gave end to this war, & recovered Conciliano, Serualla, & Asola. He made peace for the sovereignty of Dalmatia, and died aged 45. years, having governed four years, two months, & eleven days. 58 Lorenzo Celso, upon a false bruit of a victory against them of revolted Genes, was made duke in concurrence of Pietro Gradenigo, Leonardo Dandolo, & Marro Cornaro. Candie rebelled again, & it was regained with very great difficulty. On this occasion, a justs and feast was publicly made in the place of S. Mark: he died 2. days after the fourth year of his Principality. 59 Marco Cornaro, a man very wise & learned, was sent into Candie, which was rebellious, and there he made a cruel bloody war: the Pope granting plenary Indulgence to all such as went thither. The Rebels being severely punished, the commonwealth sent to Pope Urban 5. a certain number of their Galleys. He governed 2. years, 5. months and 24. days. 60 Andrea Contarini, ●led to the Paduans, fearing to be elected Duke, and as presaging the ruin which (in his time) would betide the commonwealth. First of all, he made war with them of Triesta, then soon after, with Carrara for the confines of Padua: and such was the fortune, that Chioggia being taken, the City of Venice found itself to be in extreme danger. But in the end, he went and opposed himself (in person) against the Enemies, vanquished them, and regained Chioggia. He died, having governed fifteen years, four months, and fifteen days. 61 Michele Morisini, was a man well furnished with Learning and Wisdom. Some say, that in his time the Isle of Thenedes was taken, and not in the time of his Predecessor Contarini. There were divers Laws then made, and (amongst others) it was ordained, that Homicides, who formerly had been hanged, should afterwards have their heads smitten off. He lived but four months, & five days in his Dignity, and died in the 74. year of his age. 62 Antonio Veniero, was a rigorous observer of justice. He confined one of his own Sons in exile, because he had (overlightly) offended the Family of a Noble Venetian. He made league with Galeazzo the viscount, against Carrara, whereupon he took Padua. He assisted the Emperor Emmanuell against the Turk, and gave aid also unto Sigismond, King of Hungaria, who afterward came to the Empire. The place of Saint Mark, and that of the Rialto, were greatly beautified in his time. He died two months and three days, after the 18 year of his rule. 63 Michele Steno, had the dignity of Attorney of Saint Mark, with that of Duke. He won an important battle against the Genoese. Carrera was now the last time vanquished, and Padua and Verona surprised. They of Vicenza, to free themselves from his tyranny, yielded themselves to the Commonwealth. Ladislaus King of Hungaria, did likewise forego Zara. He died, having governed 13. years and three days. 64 Thomaso Mocenigo, was first General of the Gulf. He embraced peace, to the end, that the Citizens might Traffic. Vdina became obedient to the Commonwealth, with the Country of Frivoli; by means of the Lords of Savorguani, who were made Noblemen of Venice. The Florentines were also succoured against the Duke of Milan. In his tenth year he died. 65 Francisco Foscari did stoutly repress the Duke of Milan, who proceeded too far on the liberties of Italy. Brescia, Bergamo, and other Cities of Lombardie were then won: among which were Loda and Parma, and Ravenna in Romania. He made also a large progress on the Seas, even into Morea. The Senate assisted Paleodogus the Emperor, against the Turks, who usurped Constantinople in the year 1453. He was made arbitrator by the Duke of Milan, in certain differences of neighbourhood. The King of Dacia was made a Noble Venetian: And afterward, the Duke (in regard of his age and infirmities) was dismissed, having governed 34. years, and six months. 66 Paschale Malapiero, was appointed in the place of Foscari, being Attorney of S. Mark, who died two days after his dismission. He made a Law, that in following times, the Duke should not be deposed. In his days, the famous Art of Printing was brought into Venice. The Arsenal was greatly increased: And he maintained the people in peace, during four years, 6. months, and five days that he governed. 67 Christophoro Moro, of procurator of S. Mark, was made Duke. He lived for some time in peace, till the second year of his government; and then the Turk (proud of his surprisal of Constantinople) declared War against the Venetians. He made heace with Pope Pius the fifth, and the Duke of Burgundy: But the Pope dying, they remained alone, and maintained war which lasted twenty years. And yet he died, having reigned 9 years and six months. 68 Nicholo T●ono had such good hap, that (in his time) the commonwealths affairs went well against the Turk. Pietro Mocenigo, General in the Archipelagus, united his power with the Popes. The King of Naples, & they of Rhods sent 85. Galleys together, and took Satalia, a city of Pamphilia. He made league likewise with the King of Persia, against the Turk. james King of Cyprus coming to Venice, espoused Catharina Cornara, adoptive Daughter of S. Mark. He governed one year, eight months, and five days. 69 Nicholo Marcello, Attorney of S. Matk, after some laws made by the Correctors; was elected Duke. In his time there was a conspiracy in Cyprus, to have the Kingdom fall into the power of Ferdinand King of Naples. Pietro Morcenigo went thither with a great Army, where he appeased all troubles, and severely chastised the Rebels. Scutari, a City in Liburnia, was besieged by the Turk, and valiantly defended by Antonio Loredano. This Duke governed one year, four months, and 17. days. 70 Pietro Mocenigo was elected Duke, in desert of all his worthy deeds. Lepanto was besieged in his time by the Turk, & virtuously maintained by Antonio Loredano. They brought their power likewise before the Isle of Stalimena, but the same Loredano (by his valour) defended it. The Daughter to King Ferdinand came to Venice, with the Cardinal her Brother, where they were royally entertained. This Prince caused a Money to be stamped, which he surnamed by his own name: And governed but two years and nine months. 71 Andrea Vendramino had such ill hap in his government, that the Venetian Army was two several times put to flight by the Turks: Once, near to Croya in Albania, and the other, in the Country of Friuli. He was a goodly man of person, and had a most beautiful Lady to his Wife, by whom he had as goodly Children, whom he allied in marriage with the chiefest Families. He governed one year and eight months. 72 Giovanni Mocenigo, Brother to Pietro Mocenigo, having continued the War against the Turk; in the end made peace with him: Ordering the matter so, that he left Scutari and Stipula in liberty of commerce, and power to keep a Deputy at Constantinople. He made War against Ferdinand King of Naples, at the instance of Pope Sixtus the fourth, which occasioned the long War called Sociale. In the end, peace was made, the Commonwealth having gotten Rovigo and Polesano. The City became much disgraced by fire, and a pestilent sickness: The Prince died, having reigned seven years and six months. 73 Marco Barbarigo, the Plague being ceased, caused all to be new builded, which the Fire had defaced in the Palace. He was greatly differing from from all other Princes, to wit, in pardoning, and forgetting particular injuries done unto him: but such as were committed against the State, he would have revenged with stricttest severity. The Grand Signior or Turk, sent a particular Ambassador unto him, to congratulate his election. He governed but nine months. 74 Agostino Barbarigo, withstood the progress of Charles 8. King of France, when he made war against them of Arragon, for the kingdom of Naples, which he conquered. The Turk usurped on the Common weals of Lepanto, Modona, and Corona. The Kingdom of Cyprus was brought under the tutelage of the Senate, and Queen Catharina brought thence to Venice. The Office de la Sante was created, by occasion of the Pestilence. The Duke governed 15. years, and 21. days. 75 Leonardo Lauredano sustained a very rigorous war against the chiefest Princes of the world: there being a league made at Cambray, between the Emperor Maximilian; the King of France; them of Naples; and the Dukes of Savoy, Ferrara and Mantua, incited thereto by Pope julius the second. All the whole estate of firm land was surprised, except Treuisa; but in the end it was recovered. He lived in the Principality nineteen years, eight months, and 20. days. 76 Antonio Grimani, being General, had a most infamous disrout or foil, by which occasion, he was dismissed of the charge of Procurator of S. Mark, and confined to Cherso. He broke his limitation, and withdrew himself to Rome to the Cardinal his Son: where he had so many worthy Offices imposed upon him, as, not only he was re-established in his attorneys place again; but he was likewise made Duke, at the age of eighty two years, and governed but one year, ten months, and two days. 77 Andrea Gritti, gaining best part of the glory, for the reprisal of Padua, was in very great esteem. He dealt so with the King of France, (to whom he was Prisoner) that his Majesty allied himself with the Commonwealth, and Brescia and Verona were reconquered. He knew very well, how to make his carriage pleasing to the Senate, during the wars between Charles the fifth, Emperor, and King Frances the first, as also against Solyman. He governed fifteen years, seven months, and eight days. 78 Peitro Lando continued the defence of the Commonwealth against the Turk: with whom (at last) he made a peace, knowing how to make use thereof, & maintain his own charge, while the war continued between Charles the fifth, and King Frances the first. He governed six years and eight months. 79 Francisco Donato, making benefit also of this peace, beautified the City with many goodly buildings, besides that of the Palace. He sent succour to the Emperor, against certain Rebels in Germany. The Princes of Guise, coming to Venice in his time, were entertained as fitted their dignity. He governed seven years and six months. 80 Marco Antonio Trevisano, a Man altogether devout, laboured that the Commonwealth might abound in goodness and civil manners; preventing (by his own worthy example) that vices should not be winekt at, as, in too many Countries, they are. He governed a year, wanting three days. 81 Francisco Veniero, could so well skill of governing the Commonwealth, that albeit the Turk (in his time) made War in Apulia, and the King of France in Tuscanie: yet all was well at Venice, and the Queen of Poland royally welcomed thither. He governed two years, one month, and twenty days. 82 Lorenzo Priuli, was solicited (by the Pope) to make War against the Emperor. But he being a Friend to the Commonwealth; by no means would offend him, but mediated a pacification of those affairs. In his time peace was made between France and Spain, and Charles the fifth died. This Prince governed three years, eleven months, and eight days. 83 Girolamo Priuli, Brother to the precedent Prince, enjoyed those great Honours which Pope Pius the fourth gave to the Commonwealth: And all his delight was to hear Ambassadors in the Hall of Kings. In his time the Council of Trent was concluded, whither he sent (as Ambassadors) Nicholo de Ponte, and Matheo Dandolo. The Commonwealth held (at Baptism) the Son to the Duke of Savoy b● a Deputy, borne of Marguerite of France. He died, having governed eight years, two months, and four days. 84 Pietro Loredano, by the concurrence of two others, was elected Duke, contrary to the hope of all, or his own expectation. The Arsenal was burned in his time, and there then also happened a very great dearth of all things. Selim, Successor to Solyman, took occasion to break peace with the Commonwealth, demanding of them the Kingdom of Cyprus, and moved War upon this Subject. He governed four years, five months, and eight days. 85 Luigi Mocenigo, war being kindled against the Turk; lost the Kingdom of Cyprus, Nicosia being taken, and Famagosta surrendered. The Commonwealth made league with Pope Pius the fifth, and Philip King of Spain▪ so that their Armies (being joined together in the year 1571. they obtained a worthy victory against the Turks. Soon after, Henry the third, King of France, came to Venice, where he was magnyficently entertained. This Prince died in his seventh year. 86 Sebastiano Veniero was elected by common voice, and with such applause, that divers Turks ran to him, and kissed his feet. He created five Correctors of the Laws, for ruling the affairs of the Palace. The City was delivered of a dangerous plague, and the Palace was again very greatly defaced by fire. This Prince governed not above one whole year. 87 Nicholo de Ponte, was created Duke, a man very learned in all the Sciences, and whereof he had made public profession in Venice. He passed thorough all the honours of the Commonwealth, wherewith the Citizens could possibly gratify him. The Seminary of S. Mark was instituted by him. Certain Princes of japponia arriving then at Venice, were by him most honourably entertained. He builded the Bridge of Canareggio: and governed seven years, nine months, and thirteen days. 88 Paschale Cicogna, Procurator of S. Mark, was elected when he was at divine service in the Church. In his time there was great wars between France and Spain about Piedmont, and between the Emperor and the Turk, for some parts in Hungaria▪ He caused the Town of Palma to be builded, in the confines of the country of Friuli, and a new Castle or Fortress, in the Isle of Cephalonia. He had the honour of the wonderful Bridge of the Rialto, which he builded: And governed ten years, or thereabout. 89 Marino G●imini, Procurator of S. Mark, was so highly in grace and favour of the people, that on the day of his election, they declared extraordinary signs of joy, and continued them for many following days. The second year of his Principality, he caused the Duchess his Wife to be crowned in great Triumph. At which time Pope Clement the eight sent her the Rose of gold. In his time much joy and triumph was made, for the peace concluded between the Kings of France and Spain. Upon occasion of the Pope's coming to Ferrara, obtained by the Ecclesiastical Estate, the Cardinal Aldobrandino passed thence to Venice, where he was most honourably welcomed with divers other Cardinals. There was such an extraordinary overflow of waters, in the fifth year of his Principality, that the Barks, Boats, and Gundeloes floated on the place of S. Mark, even as if they had been in a full main river. He died, and was much bemoaned of the people, having governed ten years, and eight months. 90 Leonardo Dandolo, having by his worthy deservings, singular wisdom and dexterity, managed passed affairs, and gone through all honours of the Commonwealth, giving evident testimony of his care and faithfulness, was advanced in the place of Grimani, the tenth day of january, 1606. He had been sent Ambassador to Constantinople to Mahomet (he being newly come to the Empire of the East) in the common-wealthes-name, to salute him with accustomed compliments. He hath such a practive brain, and so happy a memory, seated in a soul so religiously zealous for common benefit, that the Senate hath referred more to him then to any other of his Predecessors. The City hath (in his time) been excommunicated, by Paulus Quintus now pope, about some pretensions appertaining to his See: But it may well be said of this Prince, that, against such Thunder-clappes and lightning flashes, he hath shown himself like an immovable Rock, in defence of that estate in general. In like manner, two principal Pillars of Christendom, threatened great disaster and ruin: bu● that most Christian Henry the fourth, King of France, embracing those two Collombes, upheld both the one and other, & redressed all discontentment, by the entermise of his Ambassadors, and hath erected a Triumphal Arch, to the immortality of his glory. This Prince now living happily in peace, doth daily acknowledge to France, his particular affection for such favour, and may (in time) much better declare it. God long preserve him, and all other good Princes. ❧ Of the Kingdom of Spain. Spain was (in her younger days) held by sundry petty Kings and tetrarchs; Spain divided (at first) into six Provinces. viz. 1. Terracon. 2. Carthage. 3. Lus●tania. 4. Gallacia. 5. Boetia. 6. Tingintava. and afterward became divided into many Commonweals. The carthaginians (a people of Africa) hazarding their fortune thither, held one part thereof, and possessed themselves of many Cities, Towns, and places, until they were expelled thence by the romans, in the time of the Punic wars. Since when, it was continually subject unto the Commonwealth of the Roman, & reduced into form of a Province only, in the reign of the Emperor Augustus. So it remained till the Emperor Honorius; in whose days the Vandals (a people of the North parts) brought it under their command. 433. But they were (soon after) chased thence by the Goths, who established there the seat of their kingdom, which in that kind they maintained, for the space of about two hundred years: nor were they then called kings of Spain, but kings of the Goths. In the reign of Roderick, king of the Goths, the Moors of Africa entered Spain, The Moors in possession of all Spain. in the year 715. they being brought thither by one named julian, in very despiteful indignation, and to shape out a way to his bloody revenge, because King Roderick had dishonoured his Sister, or (as some others say) his daughter. And so did the Moors possess themselves (wel-néer) of all Spain, seizing the city of Toledo, which was then the capital city. Thus ended the kingdom & name of the Goths in Spain. Nor rested they so, but pursued on their conquest still, & there remained none but Galitia, the Asturies & Leon, which countries king Pelagius, Uncle & successor of Roderick, had fled to for refuge, & there shut up himself, in regard that those places were environed with Mountains & might well defend & shelter him for some time. But his successors, being hardly pressed by the Sarrazins, could no longer resist: wherefore, under the reign of Alphonsus the second, they were forced to crave the help of Charlemaigne, King of France, by whose valour and Virtue, the Moors were beaten thence a great way, and had been quite cast out of the Country, if the Spaniards malice had been no hindrance thereto. Afterward, the kings of Leon and Galicia (for such were then their only titles) being so formerly preserved, began somewhat to increase in power. And in regard of this expedition, performed by the French, the strength of the Moors was so weakened and diminished, that many other Kingdoms were established in Spain, The Kingdoms of Navarre & Arragon. as that of Navarre by Enocho Count of Bigorre, in the year, 960. which he took away from the Moors and Sarrazins, by a very valiant conquest of them. The Son of this Enocho, being named Garzias, second king of Navarre, won and conquered Arragon from the same enemies. And afterward, in the year 116. was Arragon reduced to be a kingdom, by the Will and Testament of Sanchio the Great, fourth King of Navarre, for love to Ramyrus his Natural Son, who was the first King thereof. This was the same Sanchio, who being Earl of Castille in the kingdom of Leon, took on him first the name of King Castille, which he left unto his Son Ferdinand. Portugal conquered from the Moors. The Kingdom of Portugal was also conquered from the same Moors, by Earl Henry, Son unto the Duke of Lorraine; who held it first of all, under Title of Earl, in the year, 1110. but quickly after brought he it to be a Kingdom. Spain did continue so (in this kind of State) for a long time, divided into many Kingdoms: And the Moors had also their abiding there, possessing still a great part thereof, till such time as Ferdinand the fift, King of Arragon, 1492 who was married to Isabella, the only heir of Castille: And he (wholly) expulsed the Moors out of Spain, in the year, 1492. In no great distance of time after, he possessed himself of Sicily & Naples, invading also the East India's. But fraudulently he usurped the Kingdom of Navarre, The beginning of the kingdom of Spain, and descent of their kings. against john d'Albret, who was (indeed) the lawful King. And it is this Ferdinand, and Isabella his Wife, that (we may say truly) the Kingdom of Spain only had beginning in. They left one only Daughter, named joan, who was married to Philip the first, of Austria, Son unto the Emperor Maxmilian, and Mary of Bourgundie: he succeeded in this Kingdom of Spain, and other Countries beside. He was likewise Earl of Bourgondie, of Flaunders, and Lord of the Lowe-countreyes', in the right of his Mother. In this his Marriage, was borne Charles the fifth, who was afterward Emperor. 1516. He reigned nine and thirty years, preserving his Provinces very happily: And he left for successor, both in Spain, and the more part of his other Countries, his son Philip the second, 1555 who reigned three and forty years, having adjoined (to his other Estates) the Kingdom of Portugal, in the year of our Lord, 1580. and so (consequently) all that which the Portugals held in the East India's, and elsewhere, as in Africa and Brasile, which came unto him by the death of King Henry the Cardinal. He died aged seventy years, the thirteenth day of September, 1598. No long time before his death, he had made peace with the mighty and most Christian King of France and Navarre, Henry the fourth. 1598. Philip the third, his Son, succeeded him, and reigneth as yet to this day. He married Margaret, Daughter to the Archduke of Austria, by whom he had a Son, in the month of April, 1606. Of Germany and the Prince's Electors. Of Germany, and the Prince's Electors. LIttle can we here speak of Germany, in regard it requireth a large & ample discourse: Only concerning the Prince's Electors, I find it recorded, that Pope Gregory, the fift of that name, being a Native of Saxony in Germany, and Kinsman to the Emperor Otho; to the end that the Empire might long remain, in the hands of them of his Nation, procured a Law to be made, with the consent of Otho, about the election of the Emperor, in the year of our Lord, 1002. which Law was afterward duly kept, and hath been to our time, that it should be always lawful and permitted to the almains or Germans only, to elect and choose the Prince, that was to be called Caesar, and King of the romans, with the Title likewise of Sovereign Emperor and Augustus, so soon as his election was approved. It was therefore ordered, that that three Ecclesiastical persons, and four of the laity, should have the full authority herein, with the voice of all the State in general. Three ecclesiastics, and three Layickes, with addition of a fourth, the K. of Bohemia. The Ecclesiastical men, were the Archishops of Magonoe, Treues, and Colongne; The Layickes were the marquess of Bradenbourg, the Count Palatine of Rhine, the Duke of Saxony, and the King of Bohemia, to all whose Successors this Dignity appertained. And the King of Bohemia was added for the seventh elector, to the end, of avoiding all differences which might happen in the election, and to judge especially over the other. ¶ A short Chronological Discourse of France, the Original of that Nation, and a brief History of their kings, from Pharamont their first Governor, to Lewes 13. now reigning. ¶ To the Worshipful Master Richard Langley, Esquire, Town-clerk of the Honourable City of London. THe greater part of such as have Written, concerning the Original and Etymology of the Name Francs or Francions, who afterward came to be called Frenchmen, have scarce faithfully or respectively handled that Subject. Many ancient moderate Writers, The error of Writers, about the names original. as Sigisbert, Gregory of Tours, Aimonius the Monk, Hunibant, and the more part of our Chroniclers and Annalistes, made their whole recourse to Dreams and Fables, because they lived in those barbarous times, when learning was trodden underfoot, and good Books were burned by the Goths, Vandals and Huns, with other uncivil Nations, who quenched and smothered the light of good Letters, which being hidden underground (to avoid such barbarous and abortive fury) our forenamed Writers were robbed of knowing those sound Authors, without whom they could not judiciously censure, or write the History of the French Nation. Others that long time after, and much nearer to our instant Age, have likewise written on the same Argument; by following the tract of those former blinde-guides, have fallen into their error and folly: reading no other Authors but those misse-leaders, neither taking any pains to peruse those grave ancients, which more polished seasons have discovered unto us. So that those best embraced Authors of the French, are even the loudest liars, leaving a rooted opinion in their idle fancies; that they are issued of the Trojans, and that they were named French of Francus, Francus or Frention, the son of Hector. or Francion, the Son of Hector, who, after sack and spoil of the said City, saved himself (with so many as could escape the Grecians Sword and fire) in the Palus Maeotides, and that (of his name, whom they thus followed) they were first called Francs, or Francions. Next, that near to this Palus Maeotides, they builded a City, which they named Sicambria, after the name of an Aunt to Francus, Sicambra the Daughter of King Priam. the Daughter of King Priam; and that there they dwelled, until the Emperor Valentinians time, being then constrained to pass into Allemaigne, and thence into Gaul. See here the conceit of some fond Frenchmen, concerning the Etymology of their name; which if any one should offer to take from them, he should (in their judgement) commit no mean crime. And albeit there are many, and contrary opinions in this case, yet I will plainly tell ye no more, than what I have read, and seen written. Some say, that (in times past) there was a nation in Europe, scattered & dispersed here and there, who were called Cimmerians; Cimmerians. Cimbrians. Sicambrians. Francs or Francions. one part of them had the Name of Cimbrians, another Sicambrians, and a third Francs, or Francions. These people passing through the Country of Pannonia (now divided into two parts, the one called Hungaria, and the other Austria) were driven from their precedent dwelling, which was at the Cimmerian Bosphorus by the Goths, in the year of the worlds Creation, 3520. Others say, that these Cimmerians termed themselves to be derived of those Fraci, that appeared on the Earth after Noah's Flood (viz:) that of those divisions made in the whole universe, by partage of the Mediterranean Sea, those which were in Europe (distinctly on the right hand) gave to the Haebrews these Fraci, The Hebrew Fraci, and the Africans. even as them on the left hand did the Africans. There are some others, who do fetch the Original of those Cimmerians, from Gomer the Son of japhet, and youngest Son of Noah, of whom they should take their Name, by change of some Letters, calling them Cimmerians, instead of Gomorians. But howsoever it was, that Nation of Cimmerians, abandoning the utmost Confines of Thrace, and the forenamed Bosphorus; divided themselves into divers bands: o●e whereof made their way to the Pannonians; another to that side of Germany, where the Cimbrian Chersonnesus is described by our Geographers; And the rest, leaving Europe, The Cimbrian Chersonnesus. passed into Phrygia, and making up higher into Asia, set down their rest on the Banks of Danubie, and the main Ocean. There (once more) they separated themselves into two Troops: One whereof entered into Europe, under conduct of their King named Francion. And, being no other than mere vagabond persons, inquiring still for novelty of Countries, after they had run through a great part of Europe; at length, they rested on the banks of Rhine, where they would needs build a City, in semblance and Name of Troy, the Capital Commander of Phrigia. They began the foundation, Torches or Torques of Torquor their King. but the work remained imperfect. The other sort, that made their abode on the banks of Danubie, elected for their K. one named Torchor, by whose name they were called Torches or Torques: even as on the contrary side, the other, after the name of Francion their King, were termed Francs, Françions, or Françons. They waxing weary of their king's Empire (which grew to an insupportable tyranny) expulsed them, & lived a long time without any King, under authority of their Captains. But in the end, corruption overswaying those Captains, and threatening a tyrannical usurpation: they did likewise cast them off, and grew to their former election of Kings again, even from the self-same stirp and race, whereof their first Kings had been elected. They made choice then of a Man named Theudomer, Theudomer, a kinsman (by descent) to king Priam son to Richomer, a man of strong, great and goodly stature, wearing his Hair long, and he was descended of the race of Priam King of Phrygia, and of Francion. So that, if this opinion be true, it should instruct us, that the Original of the Françons or Françions, proceeded of the Cimmerians, and that those Cimmerians came from Phrygia, and the Trojans. The Cimbrians, who were descended of the Cimmerians, went to the banks of Rhine, and dwelled there in those straits, where (in these days) are the Countries of Holland and Gueldres: But they were forced thence, by frequent overflowings, and strange inundations of the waters of Rhine. The Sicambrians, being issued of these Cimbrians, and who never boudged from the shores of Rhine, as these others did, of whom we have formerly spoken: they passed into Italy, and from thence into other Regions heretofore mentioned. And it is to be noted, that when the Cimbrians went first to Rhine (be it that they came from the Pannonians by Land, or from Phrygia and Thrace by the German Sea, being in number about 489360.) they were by the Teutones and Thuringians, Neighbours to Rhine, named Neumagi, Neumagi, is new kinsmen. as much to say, as new Kinsmen or Cousins. Afterward, when their King Antenor (a man of great power) had espoused Cambra, a beautiful, Antenor married Cambra Daughter to the King of Britain. wise, and chaste Lady, borne in the Country of Britain, now called England: in favour of her, he termed his people Sicambrians. This happened in the year of the World's Creation, 1550. At which time Artaxerxes reigned over the Persians, and Hannibal passed first into Italy. Priam, Son to Antenor succeeded him, & then Marcomedes. Antenor, King of the Sicambrians, lest to those his people inhabiting on the Rhine, his Son Priam for their King. After whom succeeded Marcomedes, who extended his Dominion from the banks of Rhine, so far as Thuringe. The other Sicambrian Kings, succeeding after these forenamed; did (almost all of them) term themselves Troyans: which holdeth (with good judgement) to show, that the Sicambrians were issued of the Cimmerians and Phrygians. There were also many Kings of these Nations, and after that the Sicambrians grew to increase near the Rhine, both in multitude of men and riches: divers other Kings reigned over them, who extended the limits of their possessions, on either side the Rhine. In the reigns of Clodion, Clodomire the second, Clodion, Clodomire, Meradac & Bolon kings, leagued with the Teutones. Meradac and Bolon, (under conduct of whom, the Cimbrians forsook the shores of Rhine, by reason of the inundations of the said River, and likewise of the Sea) they leagued themselves with the Teutones or almains, and departed in great troops from their habitations; leaving very few there behind them, who being afterward vanquished by the romans, with other people of the Gauls neighbouring near the Rhine; continued peaceably in their dwellings, until the declining of the Roman Empire: but yet they were wadged as Soldiers in the Roman Legions, and served the Romans faithfully in all their wars. Some certain years after, they rebelled against the Emperor Honorius, who conquered them in a battle: But, recovering their loss, they grew in to good favour with the Emperor Valentinian. Hereupon some have written, that in regard they gave him good aid against the Ala●nes, & expelled them from the Palus Maeotides: they were by him called Francs, Why the Emperor Valentinian called them Franc●. and dispensed withal for ten years tribute, which formerly (as a Due) they paid to the romans. But at the ten years end, the Emperor sent his Collectors to them, to levy again the said tribute: whereto they would in no wise listen, but despising his commandment, they murdered his Officers. The Emperor being offended at their rebellion, K. Priam slain, and his people fled into Germany. assembled a potent Army, that vanquished them in battle, wherein also Priam their King was slain, and they driven to flight from their City Sicambria. Being thus expulsed thence, they came into Germany, which then was enemy to the Romans, & possessing themselves of Thuringe; they lived there (for some time) under the reign of Marcomedes, son to Priam, & of Sueno, son to Antenor, one of their Kings: thus you may see what some have said. But, as concerning the City of Sicambria, builded near to the Palus Maeotides, not by the Françones or Françions, but only so avouched, by the writings of Hunibant, & afterward by those of Gregory of Tours, of Rheginon, and of Sigisbert: good Authors do make a mere mockery of it, for they never knew any other City named Sicambria, but that famous City which is in Allemaigne. So that by this our instant deduction, it evidently appears, that the Sicambrians dwelled with the Pannonians, The Sicambrians lived with the Pánonians. & that (from thence) they came into Germany, to the shears of Rhine: and having in such manner obtained their liberty, they were then first of all called Francs. But now to come again to our Francs, Francions, or Francones, admit them to be issued of the S●cambrians, or of the Cimbrians, or of the Germans, or of any other: It is notorious enough, Franconia in Saxony, and France in Gaul. that two great Provinces were by them inhabited, & named; to wit, Oriental France or Françonia, in the Country of Saxony, & the kingdom of France in Gaul: and that the very first time, that any speech was heard of them, it was in the declining of the Roman Empire, under the Emperors Aurelianus, Probus, Florianus, and Proculus. Which hath made some to conceit the very same matter of the Sicambrians, and that the name of Francs was given them. either after one of their Kings; or of their bold courage, or of the Hebrew Fraci. The Emperor Aurelianus had to deal with them, when they would needs pass the Rhine, to come into Gaul, and (as some report) slew a great number of them. And yet they were not so much weakened, but they could rebel again, and withstand the succeeding Emperors. Now let us come to the Etymology of this name of Franc, or Francs, there are some, Of the word Franc or Francs. who make no other proof thereof, but that it was only in regard of the immunity, given unto them by the Emperor Valentinian, after they had holpen him against the Alaines: Inferring also, that he called them so by a Greek name, François, which is as much to say; as bold, hardy, & valiant, and by those means were enfranchised from all touls, subsidies, and tributes for ten years' space. But there is not any Etymology received by our Frenchmen, but such as certain Authors, by idle forged Histories of their own brain, would make them to believe: and that they are derived of Françus or Françion, son to Hector, according as we have already declared. Now, to answer all these recited opinions, and to begin with the word ferocity, as derived of the adjective Ferox, The French would have their name derived of ferocity. and whereof some great estimulation is made: There is no appearance at all, that they should derive their name from thence, this Etymology being but pulled in by the ears, and so far off from the name of Francs, as there needs no other reason to object against it, but the very spacious distance between these two words ferocity and Francois, considering withal, that all Authors have described the French, to be men mild, courteous and affable, and not fierce, stern or cruel. As for the other reason, the best received of them, that strives to make us believe, that they are issued of Francus or Francion, the son of Hector: It is most certain, that there never was any such Francus or Francion son to Hector, because Hector had but one son, Hector had no son but Astyanax. named Astyanax, who at the surprizail of Troy, was thrown by the Greeks from a very high Tower, to the end, that no one of the Trojans race might remain, to revenge (upon the greeks) the sack of Troy. And to say, Franchise and Immunity. that the Etymology of the name of Francs came from the franchise and immunity, which was given unto them by the Emperor Valentinian: It hath no likelihood of reason, because they were called so before Valentinian was borne. Now, albeit that the name of franchise, comes nearest to that of Francs: yet cannot that derivation be received for authentical, because the name of this Nation is more ancient (by more than a thousand years) than the word of franchise, which is but a new coined word in respect of the other, and which, by Frenchmen (lovers of their own language) hath been allowed to signify the said liberty. ¶ The Election of Pharamont, who was the first King of France, how he was elected for his Virtues and Heroic actions only. The Francs gave aid to the Emperor Valentinian, and (by that occasion) were exempted from paying Tribute for ten years. In like manner, what Ceremonies were anciently observed, in election of their Kings; and of the Salic Law. THe Francs, Francions, or Francons (of whose adventures and Etymology we have amply discoursed) having after many peregrinations, Voyages, The Francs builded a City near to the Palus Maeotides. and Traverses, made choice of their abiding at Paulus Maeotides: very near thereunto, and (according to the opinion of the most common and received) they builded a City, where they inhabited until the time of the Emperor Valentinian, whom they valiantly assisted against the Alaines, that had rebelled against the Emperor and the Roman Empire. In recompense of which good succour & service, the Emperor discharged them (for ten years space) from paying the ordinary Tribute, which they owed to the Romans: yet ordering, that (at expyrarion of such time) they should return to their former servitude. The ten years being expired, constraint came for repayment of the Tribute: But they (feeling the sweetness of such an immunity▪ & desirous to reduce to a perpetual privilege, that which the Emperor had but in grace granted) in pride and presumption replied, that they purposed no longer payment of any thing: but, since with price of their blood, and no mean danger of their lines, they had freely bought and purchased their freedom: they were not so weakly advised, to forego (at so cheap a Market) that which had cost them so dear. The Emperor displeased with this their refusal, brought a great Army against them, and foiling them in the fight, expelled them from their dwelling: The Francs foiled by the Emperor, choose a Captain named Marcomir. So that they were enforced to assemble themselves, under the conduct of a chief Captain amongst them, named Marcomir or Marcmeier, which (in the old Franc Language) signifieth a Governor of they Country. Thus they withdrew themselves into a Province of Germany (at this present called Allemaigne) where they inhabited, and after their own name, called the Province of their abiding, Franconia. There are some Authors, who will not avouch, that the Emperor Valentinian did vanquish them, because (in very truth) there is no such matter found in any very ancient Writer. Contrary-wi●e, Amianus Marcellinus, an old and true Historiographer, sayeth, That when as Valentinian was in Italy, The words of Amianus Marcellinus he received tidings, that great Britain (now named England) was then overrun and spoiled) by the picts and Scots; And likewise, that a great number of the Francs, as also of the Saxons, did overspread Gaul. But common Opinion holdeth, that the Francs would not pay the Tribute, after ten years were expired, and that being, thereupon, overcome by the Emperor Valentinian; they were (as already hath been said) expulsed from their abiding, and compelled to save themselves in the said Province. Being there seated, they grew desirous, They choose an order of government among them. to choose and establish a manner of Governing their Estate, whereby ensued many contentions among them. For, some would have it brought into a Monarchy, which is the Government of one Prince only: And others, into an aristocraty, which is to be governed by a certain number of Wise and discreet persons. hereupon, in a publlque assembly made, The advise of Charamond, concerning the election of Pharamont on this occasion, one among them, named Charamond, made a very eloquent Oration in the behalf of Monarchy, and his main scope aimed; that they should elect for their King and Prince, Pharamont, a man just, very devout, of good sort, and valiant▪ qualities necessarily required to be in a Prince. Moreover, he added, that if he should do any thing, unfitting for a King and Prince: it was a very easy matter for them, to take away from him the administration of his Kingdom and Government, because people were before Kings and made them their Rulers. Nor can I be persuaded, quoth he, that the man now to be elected, will any way fall into Tyranny, or raise us in any disobedience towards him, in regard of the virtuous qualities wherewith he is endued: And from him may we well expect, all such justice, kindness, care, and assistance, as Subjects can hope for in their Prince, his actions & behaviour of life being so well known unto us. He is Son to this worthy Captain Marcomir, who so wisely and happily hath brought us hither, who so securely hath here established us, and who so valiantly sheelded us from the romans threatenings; when (by inequality of our power to theirs) we were compelled to forsake the Palus Maeotides. We are then much obliged to Pharamont, in memory of his Father's weighty merits: And these two especial reasons should move us to receive him as our King, and prefer him (before all other) to that dignity; even as we ought to advance Monarchy before aristocraty, whereunto I know some among us will incline, without foreseeing the harms that will befall us, if we embrace it. For, if we consider our ancient manner of life, it hath been to obey one, and not many, in which regard, methinks, that the first thing, which ought to be respected in the establishing of an Estate, is the humour of the Inhabitants, and to consider, of what command or government they are most capable, to wit; of Monarchy alone, or many-headed aristocraty. Thus spoke Charamond, and then many contrarieties were moved among them, about diversity of Opinions. Whereupon, Prince Charamond began again another most excellent Oration, maintaining his former speeches against Quadrek, a great Prince likewise, who defended the contrary, saying: Quadrek his opposition against Charamond That Kingdoms governed by many Princes, were more peaceable, and better pollicied, then to be subjects to one king only. After all these disputes (long debated on either side) the Francs (who were more capable to live under a Monarchy, than a public command, because they were men free, The election of King Pharamont most hardy, and courageous) by common consent, elected King Pharamont, and according to their custom, placing him upon a Pavois, lifted him upon the Shoulders of men, and so walked with him three times about the place of their meeting, proclaiming him their King. This was in the year of the worlds creation, 438●. And of jesus Christ▪ 420. Or after others, four hundred twenty six, or four hundred twenty and seven. Some say, that he was the Son of Marcomir, yet others say no. His name was Pharamont or Waramond, which in the ancient Franc Language, signifieth a man of truth. And we may well conceive, that his name and Nature were correspondent, and that he was a virtuous parsonage: considering they chose him for their king, after such a great contention, and withal, that such as desire to live under a Monarchy, and to have one King: will have him to be a good man, which is the only felicity that can come to any Estate, when a Prince is furnished with integrity and truth, and all other virtues commendable in a Prince: Even as chose, it can sustain no greater mischief, then to be subjecteth to barbarousness, and Injustice of a cruel Tyrant. All the truest Histories do agree, that Pharamont was the first King of the Francs or Francons, Pharamont first King of the Francs or Franconians. in Franconia a Province of Germany: but they speak not of his passage into Gaul, for he was never there. And the first of them that ever went thither, was Clodion the Hairy, Clodion was the first that entered into Gaul. Son (according to some) of the forenamed Pharamont. Nor came he also thither (but as we use to say) to bid the Country Good morrow: For he was repulsed, chased, and compelled to return thence. And he, that (of the two Nations of the Francones and Gauls) made them but one, reducing them into one body: was Meroneus, the Son of Clodion, as shall be after declared in his due place. Pharamont lived only on the Banks of Rhine, without passing any further thence: it contented him to bring his people only thither, to sound, not the ford, but the fortune of passage into Gaul. Being chosen King, he conceived, that the very strongest bond, which binds and shuts up any State for longest continuance, is the Constitution of Laws: which are nothing else, but a reason planted in Nature, commending honest occasions, and prohibiting their contraries. Beside that, they had never been made by Lawemakers', but for the conservation of States, empires, Kingdoms, Seigneuries, Cities, and their Inhabitants. And because long Wars, as also their so recent and late foil, had brought his people unto some good form of obedience: he concluded to make new Laws, which might cause them to live under certain Rules of policy, considering, Pharamont deviseth Laws for his people, with consent of his Lords. that as hardly can a people live without Laws, as the body without members. For the better establishing of these new Laws, he used the advise of four his chiefest Barons, even those of worthiest merit amongst all his Lords, to whom some do give these Names Vridogast, Sagobast, Vrisogast, and Bosogast. He likewise devised certain Laws, laws Saliques or Ripuaries. which he termed Saliques and Ripuaries, the Chapters whereof are yet to be seen, which do not speak any thing of the general right of his Kingdoms, but concerning the particular right of every one, especially in the Article of Succession. From whence our French Nation hath derived the Law Salic, speaking of the succession of the Realm of France, the institution whereof, they attribute to Pharamont. Against which judgement, we will not oppose ourselves any way, only we say, by the testimony of truest Histories, there is not found any but this Salic Law, which the French do boldly affirm to be made by Pharamont. Yet such as labour to have us believe this opinion, do scarcely know how the Kingdoms of Barbarians, and their Kings governed: Albeit it was a custom observed among Barbarous Nations, A custom among barbarous Nations. that their Daughters should never succeed in the Crowns of their Kingdoms. Also, in the reign of Pharamont, the third general Council of Ephesus was holden, against Nestorius' Bishop of Constantinople; & the fourth Schism came into the Church. Especial matters happening in the time of Pharamont Saint Hierome and Saint Augustine died, the one aged ninety one years, and the other seventy six, after they had long time governed their Churches: And then began Christian Religion to flourish, by the holy and painful writings of many Doctors. This is all that can be said of Pharamont, first King of the Francs, or Franconians, who afterward were called Frenchmen: And he, after he had reigned ten, or (according to some others) eleven years, died in Anno Dom. 431. Our Histories have not given him any Wi●e, albeit some say, that Clodion his Successor was his Son. 431 2 Clodion, second King of the Francs, Franconians, Clodion sir●named Hairy, for wearing long hair, and a beard in sign of liberty. or French, succeeded his Father Pharamont, in the year of grace 431. He was surnamed Clodion the Hairy, because he wore his Beard and Hair long, ordaining the French to wear the like, in sign of liberty: because the romans used to paul and shave all such as they subdued, in sign of servitude, and this fashion of wearing long hair continued in France, until the time of Peter Lombard, in the reign of Lewes the younger, fourth King of that name. Clodion perceiving the romans to war weak, by Wars which they maintained against the Vrisigotes, and loath to lose occasion for enlarging his Kingdom: levied a mighty Army, The deeds of Clodion for enlarging his Kingdom. subdued the Thuringians or Lorraignes, took Cambray by assault, putting all the romans to the Sword that were therein, and vanquished their Army near to the River of Rhine. Then passing the Forest Charbonniere, he took Tournay; and pursuing his purpose, for dilation of his Confines, he went into France, conquering Burgundy, Tholouse, Angolesme and all Aquitain. Clodion having reigned twenty years, died in An. 449. 3 Meroneus, third King of the French, 450 succeeded Clodion as his Son, or nearest Kinsman, Anno 450. Tritemius writeth, that he was Son to Clodion, but it is not found to be so in the Histories of France. In him the generation of the Kings of France took beginning, which endured until King Pepin, The beginning of the Kings of France in generation. the Son of Charles Martell. Meroneus (like unto his Predecessors) was a Pagan; yet very bold and courageous in war, as he declared by many fought battles, wherein he was continually present. In his time, Attila King of the Huns or Hungares (who termed himself Flagellum Dei) levied an Army of five hundred thousand Men, and came into the Country of Gaul; where he spoiled Coulongue and Treues, with many Castles situated on the Rhine. Attila with his Huns invaded Gaul. He traversed France also, where he wasted Amiens, Beawais, chaalon's, Troy's and Rheimes, bringing his siege before orleans. Meroneus seeing France so much oppressed (with the help of Aetius, Lieutenant General in Gaul for the Army of Theodosius the younger, Emperor of Rome, and of Theodorick King of the Vuisegothes) gave him a strong battle in the Catalaunique Fields (which is said to be near to chaalon's in champaign) in which fight, were slain about two hundred thousand Men of War, The ●ight of Attila out of Oval. as well on the one side as the other▪ Attila beholding his Men in disorder, and that he could not call them back again as he would: was enforced to retire home to Hungary, where he could never after re-assemble them of that company. This battle was fought in the year 452. Others say, it was in the twenty seventh year of the Empire of Valentinian the third. Meroneus having his hopes much more highly advanced. by such a great and glorious victory: took the Cities of Sens, Paris, and a great part of Gaul, not finding any to offer him resistance. So that thence forward, the Country which before has been termed Gaul, began even then to be called France. He caused one of his Sons to be thrown into a Fire, When Gaul began to be called Franc● because he had slain the King of Cornwall, who came in courtesy to be merry with him; Cornwall being then tributary to France, as some have reported, who also do entitle Meroneus to be the first king of the French, and all his Race the Merovingians. He died in the tenth year of his reign (after he had very much enlarged his Kingdom) in Anno Domini. 472. Or, according to others, 459. 4 Childerick, or, as some term him, 460 Chilperic, Son to Moroneus, succeeded him in the year 460. The great luxury, The incontinent life of Childerick. and bad life which he led, in the beginning of his reign, abusing the Wives and Daughters of many worthy Lords, begot him such indignation and hatred among them; that they purposing to surprise him, he was feign to save himself by flight to Basinus, king of Thuringe, now called Lorraigne. This did he by the council of a friend of his, named Vidomarck, who (as a secret token between them) breaking a Ring of Gold, gave him the one half: conjuring him, to give no faith (for his return) but to him that should bring him that other half. The French elected (in his place) a Lieutenant of the romans, named Gillon, who held Soissons, and laid such heavy exactions on every man, exercising also such cruelties on the Princes of France: that (in the 8. year) he was expelled, and Childerick again restored, wholly by the means of Vidomarch. Childerick pursued Gillon his Enemy, and had great victories and conquests against him. He fought a battle also near to orleans, against Andoacre, who was Duke of the Saxons. He enlarged his Kingdom along the River of Loire, so far as Angeirs. One great and irreparable error he committed, for breaking the right of Hospitality, Childebert wronged his dearest friend with Basinus King of Thuringe, (who had received, and relieved him in the chiefest of his adversity) he carried away with him his wife Basina, by whom he had a Son called Clovis. He died in An. 485. the 26. of his reign. The first Christian K. of France. 5 Clovis, first King Christian, and fifth King of France, succeeded his Father in the year of our salvation 485. He married Clotilda, Sister to the Duke of Burgundy. He made war upon Siagrius, the Son of Gillon, Lieutenant to the romans, who held Soissons, and some other parts of Belgic Gaul: from whence he expulsed him, and made him fly to Tholouze, to Ala●ic King of the Vuisegoths; who betrayed him, and sending back to Clovis, The romans Dominion ended in France. he had his head smitten off. So the romans, being partly fled, and partly slain; held no longer dominion in France. Having likewise vanquished King Basinus, he subdued Thuringe, now called Lorraigne: and amplified the kingdom, even from the Rhine, so far as Seine, extending her limits to the river Loire. The Queen his Wife did often times solicit him to become a Christian, whereto he would by no means listen: till being in a hot conflict against the almains (who descended in great companies, to drive the French out of Gaul) and despairing of the battle; How Clovis converted and became a Christian, by means of his Queen. he thought upon the God of Clotilda his Queen, promising, that he would be a Christian, if that day he obtained the victory. It pleased God to grant it him, and he was baptized at his return in the City of Rheimes by Remy archbishop of the said place, with his two Sisters, and more than three thousand of the Nobility. The sacred Oil was poured on his head, even in his Baptism, and all his successors (at their Coronations) have in like manner been sacred. Clovis changed his former Coat of Arms, taking three Golden Floures-de-luce, in a field Azure: wherewith he first warred upon Gondebant King of Burgundy, who was Uncle to his Wife, and discomfited the Vuisegothes before Poitiers, having slain (with his own hand) Alaric their King, and won from them the Country of Aquitaine, so far as the Pyrenean Mountains, and almost all Gaul and Allemaigne. The Emperor sent Clovis a Crown of Gold. hereupon, the Emperor Anastasius sent him a Crown of Gold, with th● Title and vesture of Patritius and Consul. He made a choice of Paris for his ordinary abiding, and commanded it to be the chief City of his Kingdom: where he died in Anno 514. being aged eyghty years. And was buried in the Church of S. Geneviefue du mont de Paris, which himself had founded, in memory of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, leaving four Sons and two daughters. 515. 6 Childebert succeeded his Father Clovis, in the year five hundred fifteen, but not in the whole kingdom; Four kings reigning together in France. For he leaving four Sons living, it was divided into four parts among them, and each one was King of his several portion. Childebert had for his part Paris, where he held his Seat royal, with other dependences, as Poictu, Maine, Touraine, champaign, Anjou, Guienne, and Awergne. Clothaire was King of Soissons; Clodomire King of orleans; and Theodorick the Bastard, being the eldest, was King of Metz. They made War by the procurement of Clotilda their Mother, on Sigismond King of Burgundy; who was slain (with his Wife & Child) by Clodomire king of orleans: who likewise (in another battle) was killed himself by Gondemar, under a feigned pretence of friendship: but for this (in the end) Burgundy was taken and destroyed. Clothaire & Childebert war in Spain. Clothaire assisted by Childebert, possessed himself of the Kingdom of orleans, and slew his Nephews. Clothaire and Childebert had great wars together, which in the end was accorded; and they passed with their armies into Spain against Almarick, who used their Sister very hardly, because she would not be an Arrian: And killing him in the battle, they brought her back with them into France. He reigned 45. years, and died without any Children: he lieth buried at S. German des Prez, which he founded by the name of S. Vincent. 559 7 Clothaire, the Son of Clovis, succeeded his Brother Childebert, in the year 559. or as some say, 560. he had before been King of Soyssons forty five years, and survived all his Brethren and their Children; so that (at length) he remained sole-king of France. He was luxurious, and cruel in the death of his two Nephews, Children to Clodomire King of orleans. He likewise (with much disgrace) upon a Good-Friday, slew Gauliter d'Yuetot in a Church: For reparation of which wrong, he advanced or erected the Land of Yuetot (which is in Normandy) into a kingdom, to the heirs of the said gualtier. Clothaire Sole-Monarch of the Gauls. Clothaire seeing himself Sole-Monarch of the Gauls; would needs levy the third part of the Church's revenues: Against which the Archbishop of Tours made resistance, telling the King boldly, that the revenues of the Church, were the goods of the poor. He lost a battle against the Saxons and Thuringians, because he would not take them to mercy, and suffer them to depart with their lives saved. He overcame (in war) Cranmer his Bastard Son, who rose in arms against him, causing him, his wife and Children to be burned: having also formerly slain the Duke of Bretaigne, whom he had caused to revolt. He reigned 51. years; died at Compeigne, and lieth buried at S. Medard de Soyssons. Anno 567. 8 Cherebert or Aribert, 567 succeeded his Father Clothaire, in the year 567. Paris fell to him by partage. He was very unchaste of life, Cherebert an unchaste King. & repudiated his Wife, to entertain two of her weighting women: for which German bishop of Paris excommunicated him. He reigned nine years, died without any heirs: And lieth buried at Saint Roman near Blaye in Gascoigne. 157 9 Chilperic, succeeded his Brother Cherebert, in the year 577. having before reigned nine years King of Soissons. He had three wives, the first whereof he divorced from him, compelling her to enter into Religion. The second, being named Audoüera, Fredegond Concubine to Chilperic. he banished. And the third, called athanagild, he caused to be strangled in her bed. All which was done by the procurement of Fredegonde, his Concubine, whom he then married, and had a Son by her, named Clothaire. His Brethren warred against him for his inhumanities', and would have deposed him: but in the end, they were pacified. Chilperic perceiving his Brother Sigibert, king of Metz, to be much molested by the Allemaigns, took many Cities from him: whereat Sigibert being justly offended, never ceased, till (by the help of Gontran) he recovered all that was taken from him, pursuing him still in such sort, that Theodebert his Son was slain, and he glad to save himself in journay, where Sigibert besieged him. Sigibert was slain in his Tent, by two Traitors hired thereto by Fredegonde. In short while after, Fredegonde knowing that the king had noted overmuch familiarity, F●edegonde caused the King to be murdered. between her and Landry (More of the Palace) her adulterer: she caused the king to be murdered by the said Laundry, at Chelles near Paris, as he returned somewhat late one night from hunting, having reigned in all 23. years, and lieth buried at S. German des Prez. 10 In the year, 587. 587 Clothaire, second of that name, the son of Chilperic & Fredegonde, (being but four months' old) was acknowledged for Legitimate, and made king, under the government of Gontran King of Orleans his Uncle, who made Landry (More of the Palace) Tutor to the young King, and because he should be nourished with his Mother Fredegonde. Childebert seeketh to revenge his father's death. Childebert King of Metz, endeavoured by Arms to get the government of the kingdom, and (as much as in him lay) to have Fredegonde punished, for the death of his Father Sigibert, and of his Uncle Chilperik, whom she had caused to be both murdered. Gontran appeased him by making him his heir: yet notwithstanding, in short while after he began war again, against which Laundry with Fredegonde (who was a woman of admired courage) opposed themselves. Fredegonde a woman of great spirit. And she (to embolden the French) carried the young king her son in her arms, walking so with him through the thickest of the battle, and showing him unto the soldiers, she would say: Fight for your young King, and defend his kingdom: by which means Sigibert was foiled, and driven to flight. Brunehault, Brunehault executed. having put to death many children of the blood Royal, was delivered to Clothaire, who caused her to be torn with four horses. He revenged himself on the Saxons, leaving no male child alive that was taller than his sword. He reigned 44. years, and lieth buried at S. German des Pres. 631. 11 Dagobert, first of that name, succeeded his Father Clothaire, in the year, 631. he gave to his brother Aribert, the kingdom of Aquitaine in partage, which returned to him again, by surviving his said Brother. Dagobert was in great peril of death, in the life time of his father, because he had cut off his schoolmaisters' beard, and caused him to be grievously beaten: The building of the Church of S. Denis. but miraculously he avoided the anger of his father, whereupon he builded the Church of S. Denis in France, which he enriched with treasures taken from other churches, especially that of Poitiers, and granted them also the Fair of Lendit. He was the first that gave any patrimony of the Crown to Churches. He conquered the slavonians, who were then Idolaters, and quieted the Gascoignes that had rebelled against him, compelling also the King of Bretaigne to do him homage. It is said, that being much addicted to pleasure, he would train after him a troop of gallant maidens, appareled like to Queens. Iewes banished out of France. By a perpetual Edict, he banished all jews out of France, that would not be baptized. During his reign, Mahomet the false Prophet, a native of Arabia, began to show himself. He reigned sixteen years, died of a Flux in his belly at Espinay, and lieth buried at Saint Denis, which he instituted as a Sepulchre for Kings. 645 12 Clovis, second of that name, succeeded his Father Dagobert, in the year of man's salvation, 645. He had but one bastard Brother, named Sigibert, who in the life time of his father Dagobert was provided of the Kingdom of Austrasia, and reigned there but eleven years, leaving a Son, whom he dearly re-commended unto Grimoald, More of his Palace. But he, The treachery of Grimoald More of the Palace. instead of advancing him in his right, caused him to be shaven, and sent unto a Monastery in Scotland, making his own son Hildebert King of Austrasia. Clovis hearing this wicked act, within two years after, caused Grimoald to be put to death, Clovis sole Monarch of the Gauls. and expulsed Hildebert out of the Kingdom: by which means, Clovis remained sole Monarch of the Gauls. He had by his wife Baudone (a Lady of Saxony) three Sons, who were all Kings each after other. In his time there happened in France such scarcity of victuals, and consequently such an extreme famine, that Clovis, to redress it, took from the Church of S. Denis, the silver covertures about the Relics and roof, The care of Clovis for feeding the poor. and other treasures (wherewith his father Dagobert had enriched it, to feed the poor in so great a misery, exempting thereto (in recompense) the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Paris. He went to jerusalem, and there warred against the Infidels. He reigned sixteen years, and dying, was buried at S. Denis. 13 In the year, 663. 663 Clothaire, third of that name, succeeded after his father Clovis. Kings (in those times) were so careless of maintaining their Majesty Royal, that they suffered themselves to be governed by the Maires of their Palace, who had charge of all their public affairs, while they (in mean space) gave themselves wholly to voluptuousness. The Maires of the Pals lace overrule the Kings. These Maires hereby took such authority upon them, that the king was but as their vassal, and him would they keep in some Castle, or other place of pleasure, never showing him to the people, but only once in a year, the first day of May, and then it was done with great pomp, and Royal magnificence, mounted in a triumphal Chariot, and the people that took pleasure in such sights, would salute him only with loud acclamations. This course continued till Pepin le Bref, which was almost an hundred years. During the reign of such Kings, Paris and Normandy was all their largest domains: the rest of Ovule being divorced as it were from the King's Sovereign prerogative, was in the possession of many Princes, making themselves Dukes and Earls in their several jurisdiction. He lieth buried at Chelles near Paris, dying in the year, 666. and fourth of his reign. He did not any thing deserving to be written, but only kept his subjects in peace: For Ebroin was so terrible (he being then More and Governor) as neither the princes of France, or any other Strangers, durst attempt to raise War against him. The honour both of kings and Kingdom, died with Clothaire, for the Maires of the Palace, pretending to guard the rights of the Crown; began (each one thorough his own avarice) to debate the Government of public affairs, as formerly hath been declared. 14 Childerick, second of that name, 666 and son of Dagobert, succeeded his Brother Clothaire, in the year, 666. being received by the French, in hatred of Theodorick: who (by the persuasion of Ebroine) was crowned King, but afterward shaven, and put into S. Denis Monastery, as Ebroine himself was at Lucon in Burgundy. His insolences and cruelties, Childerick was slain in hunting, and his Q. also. hastened his tragical ending, being slain as he was hunting with his wife Blitilda great with child, by one named Bodille, a Gentleman of Franconia, whom he had caused to be cruelly beaten. He reigned 12 years, and is buried at S. german des Pres. 15 Theodorick, first of that name, 680 Son also to Dagobert, and Brother to Childerick, was again made king in the year, 680. He, after the death of Cothaire the third, reigned a year and more, before Childerick, albeit he was the younger Brother, only by the means of Ebroine, More of the Palace. But in regard of his bad government, he was shut up in a Monastery, and so was Ebroin More of the Palace, whose cruelties the French could not endure. But Childerick and his Queen being murdered in hunting, he was fetched forth of the Monastery, and advanced again to the dignity Royal, in the year before expressed: And then was Landresill, the son of Archambauld, made More of his Palace. Landresill murdered by Ebroin. But Ebroin (forsaking his Cloister, got a great Army together, & won the victory against them; killing Landresill by Treason, and taking the King and kingdom into his own government, revenging himself, without sparing any. He overcame Pepin and Martin, Brothers to the Duke of Austrasia, and (contrary to his faithful promise) killed the said Martin: himself also being after slain (in the night time) by Hermanfroy, Pepin Heristel More of the Palace. Count of the same country. Pepin Heristell was then made More of the Palace, who carried himself valiantly in his Office, and greatly augmented the kingdom. This King Theodorick, whom some do call Thierry, having reigned nineteen. years, died in Anno 693. leaving two sons by his wife Clotilda, Clovis who was king after him, and Childebert. During the reigns of these two precedent kings, the greatness of Royal Majesty (which ought to be in Kings) did overmuch obscure itself: & the Church of Ravenna (dissenting from the Roman Church) was yet by means of Pope Donus, drawn to voluntary conformity, which greatly increased the Clergies honour, and their dignities, so that the Roman Church much augmented itself. 694. 16 Clovis, third of that name, and eldest son to Theodorick, entered into possession of the Royalty, The worthy deeds of Pepin Heristell. being very young in years, An. 694. In his time, Pepin Heristell, More of the Palace, passed the Rhine with a puissant Army, subduing the Saxons and Suevians, who had revolted from obedience, by reason of some troubles happening in France. He also conquered the Frisons with their Duke, and made them to receive the Christian faith. He reigned four years, and his burial is not recorded. 17 Childebert, second of that name, succeeded his Brother Clovis, in the year, 698. 698 Of his deeds there is little set down in writing, for Pepin Heristell (More of the Palace) ruled then the whole kingdom, and managed all the affairs of France at his pleasure. The power and authority of Pepin Heristel He heard Ambassadors, and gave them answer, according peace or truce, as to himself seemed best. In these reigns, the Maires of the Palace held such authority, as it was not lawful for any to contradict them. And yet Lambert, Bish. of Vtrecht (whom Pepin had revoked from banishment) notwithstanding all his power, did not forbear to reprove his adultery: but it cost him his life, for he was slain by Dodon, brother to his concubine. Pepin made his own son Grimoald, Mair of the palace, in which office he was soon after slain. Charles Martell Bastard son to Pepin Heristell. Then he made his bastard son, called Charles Martel, duke of Austrasia, and More of the palace. Pepin died in the 17. year of his government, as More of the Palace: And Plectrude his wife, being desirous to rule, with her young son Thibaulte, caused Charles Martel to be imprisoned at Colougne. Childebert die●, having reigned 18. years, and lieth buried at S. Stephens of Naucy, as some have supposed that his brother Clovis doth also. 18 Dagobert, second of that name, succeeded his father Childebert, in the year 716. 716. He was governed by Plectrude, widow to Pepin Heristel, and by Thibaulte, Son to his son Drogon. Some French men Crowned (as their King) one named Daniel, or Chilperic, having the Count Hermanfroy, Hermanfroy More of the Palace. More of the Palace, that had slain the cruel Ebroine. Charles Martell was still kept Prisoner at Coulongue, by Plectrude, who hindered him (by that means) from enjoying his Dukedom of Austrasia. Thibault the youngest Son of Plectrude, aspiring to be Sole-Maire of the Palace, as also to expel Hermanfroy, and his King Chilperic; raised an Army against them: But Hermanfroy withstood him so courageously, near to the Forest Charboniere, Hermanfroy prevailed against Thibaulte. that Thibaulte was glad to fly, with loss of his people. By this means, Hermanfroy (like a Conqueror) supported the reign of Chilperic, until that Charles Martell was escaped out of Prison. Dagobert reigned four years, leaving two Sons; who, by the factions of divers Princes (affecting the government) were made Monks. 720 19 Clothaire, fourth of that name, was king in Anno. 720. After that Charles Martell had escaped out of Prison, wherein he had been detained by Plectrude his Stepmother: he came presently into France with a strong Army, to re-seaze his Lordship of More of the Palace, and to exclude Chilperic (called Daniel) with duke Hermanfroy, More of the Palace, who had made him King of France after the death of Dagobert the second. They encountered together, and by the aid of the Duke of Frise; he was discomfited and fled. But yet his courage was not quailed, for afterward he foiled Chilperic near to Cambray: who having reunited his forces, with the help of Eudo Duke of Aquitaine, was once more vanquished in Champaign. The Duke of Aquitaine retiring, took Chilpericke home with him into his Country. Hermanfroy, (called by some Rainfroy) was pursued and taken in the City of Angiers, where Martell (in kindness) left him to finish his days. Charles Martell maire & great Governor of France. Charles Martell having prevailed against all disadvantages, was received in France for More and great Governor. After the first victory, which he had against Chilperic; he made Clothaire the fourth King of France, whom some do term to be Brother, and others Uncle to Dagobert the second. He reigned two years, and lieth buried at Nancy. 20 Chilperic, second of that name, 722 otherwise called Daniel, having been nourished young in a Monastery, had formerly reigned two years, before Clothayre the fourth. Charles Martell, after the death of the said Clothaire, sent for him out of Gascoigne, and acknowledging his lawful right, caused him to be constituted King, The subtle policy of Charles Martell. in the year, 722. This did he the rather (now in the fresh Sunshine of his reconfirmed power) to hold him as King in appearance only, that he dying without issue, might leave the Crown to his Brother. He reigned almost five years, and lieth buried ot Noyon. 21 Theodorick, second of that name, 727 or Thierry, as some call him, eldest son of Dagobert the second, was made King in the year, 727. Charles Martell sent to fetch him forth of a Monastery, whereinto he had been put when he was young, and created him King, in bare Title only: For Charles Martell (being More of the Palace) did manage the whole business of the Kingdom, Charles Martel ruled the whole kingdom. and carried himself therein with very good credit. Thus did the Maires take such advantage of the King's carelessness, as (in the end) they expelled them from the Royal dignity and used it only for themselves. Charles Martell subdued the Saxons, and those of Bavaria, that entered into rebellion. Eudo Duke of Aquitain raised the Sarrazins (who then bore great sway in Spain) to come with him, and War in France, making open passage for them. They came thither, to the number of four hundred thousand persons, with Women, Children, and Servants, with purpose to inhabit the Country, wasting it all along as they went. Charles Martell made a great slaughter of the Sarrazins. But Charles Martell met them near Tours, where he vanquished and slew 350000. with very small loss of his own followers. Afterward he prevailed against the Frisons, and once more he foiled the Sarrazins before Avignon, expelling them (in the end) quite out of France. This king having reigned fifteen years, died, and lieth buried at S. Denis. 741 22 Childerick, third of that name, Surnamed the Insensible, in regard of his blockish neglect and carelessness, being likewise brought from the Monastery, succeeded his brother Theodorick, in the year, 741. In which year, Charles Martell (More of the Palace, The death of Charles Martel who left three Sons. and Governor of France) after many famous and worthy victories by him obtained, died: and was in Royal habit interred at Saint Denis, in the rank of Kings, albeit he never had the Name nor Title. He left three Sons, Pepin, Carloman, and Griffon. Pepin, being More of the Palace, lost not a jot of that authority, which his Father had formerly exercised over the Kings: but governed the Realm with his Brother Carloman. Griffon, thinking himself not sufficiently remembered by his Father, seized Laon to himself, and held it strongly: but in the end, he was constrained to agree with his brethren. Carloman, contemning the goods and honours of this World, went to Rome to Pope Zacharie, and received the habit of Religion at his hands. Pepin, succeeding as heir, to that which Carloman had forsaken, and having the favour of the chiefest in the Kingdom: saw occasion smile upon him, Pepin maketh means to enjoy the Kingdom. to make himself a King, and therefore would not let slip so fair an opportunity. Hereupon by his Ambassadors, he gained the consent of Pope Zachary, whom he thoroughly acquainted with the pusilanimity and dissolute life of k. Childerick, with other his predecessors. In like manner he laid open to him, the pains and travails of his Father and himself, only in defence of the Kingdom, and how it was more convenable, that he who attended the charge of public affairs, should likewise bear the name of king, rather than he that waited not thereon at all, but followed his own delights and voluptuous pleasures, which being considered by the Pope, by the intermise of Bruchard Bishop of Bourges, and Folrad, The death of Childerick and his wife. Chaplain unto the said Pepin; it was ordained, that Childerick should be shaven, and sent unto his Monastery again, where he died, with Gisala his wife, having reigned nine years. And then was Pepin with full consent of the Nobility, and general suffrages of all the people, proclaimed King of France. here ended the first generation of the Kings of France, in the line Masculine, being termed the race of the Merovingians: which lasted from Pharamont to this Pepin, 331. years. And here beginneth the second generation; called the race of the Carlovingians. 751 PEpin, surnamed Le Bref, or Short, Son of Charles Martel, was made king of France, in the year of grace 751. having been nine years More of the Palace, from the reign of Chilperic the third. This man, as well by consent of Pope Zacharie, as favour of the French Nobility (his former good government also (especially considered) was sacred King, the first of that race. Pope Stephen, who succeeded Zacharie, withdrew himself into France, to have succour against Astulphus King of the Lombard's. Pepin being acquainted therewith, Pepin aideth Rome against the Lombard's. took part with the holy see of Rome, promising to restore that which was usurped from it: In requital whereof, the Pope sacred him again, with his two Sons: And Pepin marching with his Army into Italy, sent the Pope home to Rome again, for Astulphus was besieged in Pavia, and constrained to make agreement with the Pope. Pepin gave to the See of Rome, the Exarchate of Ravenna, and many other Cities and Towns by him conquered. He had many victories against Gaiser, or Waifer, Duke of Aquitaine, who (in the end) was slain, and his Country conquered, in a battle which he won near to Perigord. He subdued the Saxons, Pepin instituted the Court of parliament. who were revolted from their allegiance: And he instituted the Court of Parliament in France. He died at Paris, in the eighteenth year of his reign, leaving two Sons and seven Daughters, which he had by Bertha his Wife. In his time was Robert, Robert the Devil Surnamed the Devil, Son unto Aubert Duke of Normandy. 24 Charles the Great, called Charlemaigne, 768 son of Pepin le Bref, succeeded in the kingdom, the year of Grace, 768. and was Crowned at Worms, after he had made partage with Caroloman his Brother, when he had reigned 32. years King of France, by consent of the Clergy and Roman people (in regard of the great good done by him to Christendom, & the Church of Rome) he was proclaimed, Charlemagne made Emp: of the west, And the first that was called most Christian King, and crowned Emperor of Rome, in the year, 800. upon Christmas day, the people crying aloud three several times: To Charles Augustus, crowned of God, the great and peaceable Emperor; life & victory. He was the first, called Most Christian King, being a man of great stature, admirable strength, eloquent in many languages, studious, affecting to hear the reading of histories, a great lover of learning and the learned, as Parls and Pisa can well witness. Nicephorus & he divided the Empire, agreeing, that the one should be called Emperor of the East, and the other of the West. He quailed the commotion raised in Gui●nne, by the procurement of his Brother Caroloman, who therefore went in a rage to Rome, and returning thence, died soon after. To please his Mother he married Theodora, Sister or daughter to Didier k. of the lombards: whom he quickly divorced, and remarried Hildegrande, Daughter unto the Duke of Swethen, by whom he had Charles, Pepin, Lewes, Rotrude, Bertha, and Gilette. Having pacified the broils in Aqui●aine, at the request of Pope Adrian, he went in●o Italy against Didier; whom he subdued, and so gave ending to the Lombard's kingdom, The ending of the Lombard's kingdom. sending the king, his wife and children into exile. He conquered the Saxons, against whom he warred thirty years, having twelve several Battles against them. He repulsed the Sarrazins, that wasted Spain, and lost one battle in dealing with them, wherein perished thirty thousand of his men: but returning on them the second time, he won a famous victory. But too true it is, that bringing his army home into France, and passing by Roncevaux; his arrieregarde was rudely assailed by the Gascoignes, The unfortunate battle of Roncevaux and there he lost a great number of his Knights, among whom were Rowland and Oliver. He conquered the H●nnes, slavonians, Bavarians, and Danes; losing his two best Sons, Charles and Pepin, accomplishing many deeds worthy of memory, as well in war as peace. He founded the Universities of Paris. Pavia, and Bolongne: appointing also Orders for Ecclesiastical persons, called Capitula Caroli Magni, and caused the Counsels of Maience, Rheimes, Tours, chaalon's, Arles & Francfort to be holden, ordaining withal, The twelve Peers of France. the twelve Peers of France. Such was the reign of this great Charles, till being crazed with a Fever: he died, in the six and fortyeth year of his Kingly Government, the fourteenth year of his Empire, the seventy one of his age, and lieth buried at Aix la Chapelle. 25 Lewes, 816 Surnamed the debonair or meek, succeeded his Father Charlemaigne, Great difference between the Son and Father. both in the Roman Empire, and Kingdom of France, but not in his Virtue and greatness of courage, for he was so nicknamed, in regard of his overmuch readiness and facility, which made his authority despised, both of his own people and strangers, in the year, 816. Many debanches happened under his reign, as well on behalf of Bernard his Nephew, king of Italy, his wife and children (whom he caused to be put to death) as also in his war against the Bretons, who would not be brought under his obedience. He had three sons by his first wife, to wit; Lothaire, whom he made King of Italy, Pepin King of Aquitaine, and Lewes King of Bauiere. In second marriage, he had judith, daughter to the Count of Altorfe; by whom he had Charles the Bald, who (after him) was K. of France. He endeavoured to reform the overgreat pomp and dissolutions in them of the Church, by a Counsel holden at Aix la Chapelle. The sons in Arms against their father, and their usage to him. His three first Sons made divers wars upon him, being thereto provoked, as well by the Ecclesiastickes, as by the partage which he had made to Charles the Bald, his youngest son. In their first attempt, they besieged him at Compeigne, where they took their second mother judith, whom when they had shorn & veiled, they sent her in Religion to Poitiers; leaving their Father (then) without any administration or royal charge. But afterward, being recovered from such servility, and causing his wife to be brought him again: he was so mild and meek, that he pardoned the Rebels all their offences. A second time his Sons arose against him, and (accompanied with many other Traitors) levied a great Army, wherein Pope Gregory took part with them: and then they compelled their Father, to come and submit himself to their mercy, bereaving him of his imperial Ornaments, and giving him the habit of a Monk, they caused him to be strictly guarded in the Abbey of Saint Medard de Soissons. His Wife they sent as an exile into Italy, and his Son Charles (as a Prisoner) to Provence. The Lords of France and Allemaigne, being unwilling to suffer that such shame and indignity should be done to an Emperor; The Lords of France release their Emperor. in the following year they gave him his liberty, bringing his Wife and Son again unto him, & Lothaire (chief causer of his Father's captivity) was glad to fly thence into Italy. The Emperor constrained his Sons to seek his mercy, and then he freely forgave them. At Mayence he died, having reigned twenty six years, and was interred at Metz. 26 In the year 843. 843 Charles the Baulde, Son of Lewes the Meek, was made King, by a division or partage made with his brethren. Charles remained King of France, Lewes king of Germany; and Lothaire had Italy, with the Empire, Provence and Austrasia, whereof he made a Duchy, calling it Lorraine, after his own name. Before the said partage, they had a great battle near to Auxerre; wherein almost all the Nobility of France lost their lives. The Normans became Masters (almost) of all France. Which was the cause that the Normans (who were risen under conduct of two valiant leaders) were become Masters well-near of all France; but in the end, they were expelled by the King, who was ●rowned Emperor by Pope john, after the decease of his Nephew Lewes, the Son of Lothaire. In this time he became very high minded, contemning the French manner of habit, an● wearing the Grecian fashion, with a Dalmatian garment hanging down to his heels, beside other strange & pompous attires. Having reigned two years in the Empire, he was poisoned by his Physician; K. Charles poisoned by his physician. dying at Mantua; and buried at Verceillis, but seven years after, his body was transported to S. Denis. He reigned in all 38. years. 879 27 Lewes the second, surnamed the Stutter or Stammerer, Son of Charles the Bald, succeeded his Father both in the Empire and Kingdom, in the year 879. Charles the Bauld had three sons, the first was named Charlon; whose eyes he caused to be pulled out, in regard of his wicked government. The second was called Charles, who died before him. And the third, was this Lewes, surnamed the Stammerer, because his tongue was somewhat short, and made him to falter in his speech. The Pope escaped out of prison. Pope john came into France, being escaped out of prison, because he● stood against the crowning of Charles le Gros, (Son to Lewes of Bavaria) Emperor. He Crowned King Lewes the Stutter Emperor, which he enjoyed not long, in regard of his sicklynesse, for he died in the second year of his reign: leaving his Wife Richeult (Sister to the King of England, and who was returned home to her Brother) great with Child of a Son, that was afterward called Charles the Simple. He appointed as his Guardian, Odo, Son to the Earl of Anjou, hoping great comfort of the fruit in her Womb. He left also two Bastard Sons, Lewes and Carlon. During his reign, the Normans were valiantly repulsed: he lieth buried at Compeigne. 28 Carlon and Lewes, 881 the illegitimate sons of Lewes le Begue, were Kings after his decease, The base sons of Lewes made Kings. in the year 881. not having any other heir to succeed him. Some sought to give the kingdom to Boson, King of Provence: and others to Charles the Emperor, king of Germany. Carlon & Lewes (nevertheless) were crowned Kings, and carried themselves valiantly against the Normans, who (for five years' space) made very great enterprises on France. In the battle which they had near to Chinon, they fought manfully upon the river of Vienna; there nine thousand were slain, beside them that were drowned in flight. They expelled also the forenamed Boson and Charles the Emperor, seeking to make themselves Kings of France. These two brethren died strangely. The strange death of both the Kings. Lewes, pursuing a wild Bear with his javelin, was shot thorough with an arrow, which one of his train did let fly at the beast, & so he died, in the 4. year of his reign. Carlon died a year after, as unluckily, for he being one day very pleasant on horseback, galloping after a fair Damsel, who ran (for her safety) into a small Country cottage: he (not staying his horse, nor minding the impossibility of his passage) broke his neck at the doors entrance. Now, because he was the eldest, and survived his Brother, the name of King is atttibuted to him, as if that he had reigned alone. They were both buried at S. Denis. 186 29 Lewes the third, surnamed Fai-neant, Do nothing, after the death of Carlon his Father, was made King in the year 886. This man, being altogether careless, albeit he had a great number of men, which his Father had assembled to resist the Normans (who wasted the kingdom very much) would not use any resistance: but like one fearful and negligent, A dishonourable composition with the Normans. made agreement with them, and promised to give them 12. thousand pounds of Money yearly, till twelve years should be expired. Whereupon, the French (disdaining to be tributary to the Normans) deposed the said Do nothing, and made him a shaven Monk at Saint Denis. And the rather they did it, because he had taken a Nun from Challes S. Baudour, near Paris, & married her whether she would or no. To resist the Normans, the French sent for Charles le Gros, Emperor of Rome, Nephew also to Charles the bald, and him they made King. The Normans kept Paris besieged, with forty thousand men, who were in such sort foiled, as not a man of them escaped alive. A great slaughter of the Normans. Nevertheless, to contain them in some more moderation; he made alliance and agreement with their Dukes. Which raised such strange garboils in the Realm, so displeased the people, and incensed them with such hatred against him: that they expulsed him both out of the Empire and Kingdom, Charles le Gros expulsed from the Empire & kingdom and he died in a poor Village of Suauba, very poor and miserably. Yet the five years of this reign are attributed to him and not to Lewes Do nothing. 30 Odo, or Eudes, 891 Son to Robert Earl of Angiers, was made King in the year 891. after Charles le Gros, by advise of the Princes: albeit he was not of the race of Charlemaigne, but only Tutor to Charles the Simple, and he was preferred by Arnould the Emperor (successor to Charles le Gros) who would have had the Kingdom himself. During his reign, the Normans (breaking their agreement made with Charles le Gros) began to war again, much more cruelly than before, and now the second time besieged Paris: But Odo carried himself so undauntedly, that he overcame them many times. In this while, certain Barons of the Realm, Charles the Simple sent for out of England, & crowned K. had sent for Charles the Simple into England, and Crowned him King of France, at the age of fourteen years. Odo, who was then in Aquitaine (hardly brooking this disgrace) moved great war against Charles the Simple, which continued for long time. Nevertheless, at the hour of his death, he entreated the Princes of France, that they should restore the said Charles to the Kingdom, because (in true right) it appertained to him. This Odo brought up (as a novelty) to have a great many Floure-de-luces' (without any direct number) in the Arms of France, which continued so till the time of Charles the sixth. He reigned nine years, and lieth buried at S. Denis. 900 31 Charles the third, surnamed the Simple, son of Lewes le Begue, or the Stammerer, began to reign solely in the year 900. After his tutors death, who had held the kingdom in the minority of his years. The war of the Normans continued still: yet the king fell into acquaintance with Raoull, or Rollo their Duke, and gave him his daughter in marriage, endowed with all the Land, Neustria, now named Normandy. which then was called Neustria, and afterward made a duchy, and named Normandy, with especial condition, that he should be baptised. Robert Earl of Paris, Brother to Odo, (lately deceased) pretended to usurp the kingdom, and drawing many Lords into his faction, crowned himself King. But Charles, with the aid of the Emperor Henry, gave him battle near to Soissons, wherein the said Robert was vanquished and slain. hereat Hebert, Earl of Vermandois (his Brother in Law) was highly displeased, yet he dissembled it for an apt time, and one day, pretending to feast the King, he entreated him to lodge in his castle of Peronne. No sooner was he entered, Charles compelled to resign his Kingdom. but he did shut him up in a Tower (where he died) compelling him to resign the Kingdom to Raoull, Brother to the Duke of Burgundy. He left by Theargina his Wife, a Son named Lewes, who fled for his safety into England. This King reigned alone 14. years, and lieth interred at Peronne. 927 32 Raoull of Burgundy, Son to Richard Duke of Burgundy, was made King in the year 917. This man not being of the lineage of kings, would needs be crowned at Soissons: Hugh the great Cou●t of Paris. as well by favour of Hugh the great Earl of Paris, as also of Hebert Earl of Vermandois, who then kept King Charles the Simple Prisoner, seizing his person, under colour of feasting him, and constraining him (before his death) to resign his Kingdom, in presence of many Lords, and to give it (as a free gift) to the said Raoull, which yielded the greater authority to his reign. The Queen Theargina, wife to King Charles the Simple, seeing such troubles in France; made her retirement into England, to the King her Brother, with her Son Lewes, Lewes d' Outremer, or of beyond-Sea. called Lewes of beyond the Sea. Raoull made a voyage into Italy, pretending to get the Empire, which was then in strife, and there he vanquished Berengarius an Italian Prince, who laid some claim thereto. But finding himself not well affected of the Italians; he withdrew thence into France: where he died of a very strange disease, Raoull died very strange lie. being eaten with worms, notwithstanding all remedies applied by his Physicians. He reigned about ten years, died at Auxerre, and was buried at S. Colombe near Sens. 33 Lewes, fourth of that name, 929. surnamed Lewes d'outremer, or of beyond the Sea. Son of Charles the Simple, was made K. in the year 929. being then in England with the K. his uncle, the Princes, Prelates, and Barons of France sent for him into England: whither his Mother Theargina had carried him for refuge, when Hebert had betrayed King Charles her Husband; & he was crowned at Laon. The King had debate with Raoul of Burgundy, about the Kingdom, and made war upon the Emperor Otho for the Duchy of Lorraine: but peace being made between them, he took to Wife Herberge, Sister to the said Emperor. At his return home into France, Hebert Earl of Vermandois executed. he caused Hebert Earl of Vermandois to be hanged, who had procured his Father to die in Prison. Hugh, the great Earl of Paris, who then held the full sail of the kingdom; raised the Normans to rebel against the King: But the King drawing him to his side, he rebelled from him again, because he had made an agreement with the Normans without him, and caused them also to alter their purpose, with a fresh begun war: wherein the King was taken Prisoner, and carried to Roven. Afterward he was delivered to the great Earl Hugh, who detained him at Laon: but the Emperor Otho came to his succour, & delivered him. Lewes reigned twenty seven years, and lieth buried at S. Remy of Rheimes. 956 34 Lothaire, Son of Lewes d' Outremer, or of beyond the Sea, was made King in the year 956. At the beginning of his reign, Hugh the great Earl of Paris governed all the affairs of France: The death of Hugh the great Earl of Paris. but he died soon after (leaving three Sons, to wit, Hugh Capet, who afterward usurped the kingdom; Otho and Henry, who were successively Dukes of Burgundy;) and was sumptuously interred at Saint Denis. Lothaire reigned 31. years, and lieth buried at S. Remy of Rheimes. 35 After King Lothaire, Lewes his Son, 986 fifth of that name, succeeded in the government, in the year 986. He reigned but one year, died without any heir, and was the last King of the race or lineage of Charles the great, his burial was at Compeigne. Charles, Duke of Lorraine, Charles duke of Lorraine seeketh to be King. (who was his Uncle and nearest Heir) hearing of his death, would needs pass into France, to make himself King: But the French hated him extremely, as well because he had continually partaken with the almains, sworn enemies then to the French; as also, in regard he was a bad Prince to his own Subjects. So that they would not receive him for their King, but wholly ran to Hugh Capet, then More of the palace, a very wise and worthy man. He perceiving that the French favoured and affected him, knew well enough how to sow (both in their ears and hearts) an unliking opinion of Charles Duke of Lorraine, to make him the more hateful to them. He first laid before them, how he had permitted the almains free passage, D. Charles disabled by Hugh Capet. when they came and warred on France. Next, that he had maintained the chief enemies to the crown of France, wherein he stood guilty of high treason; And so, (by consequent) was disabled of any succession to the said Crown. ¶ here endeth the second generation of the Kings of France, in the line Masculine, being the race of the Carlovingians, and which continued (after Pepin) for the space of 233. years. 987 HVgh Capet, Son to Hugh the great Earl of Paris, possessed himself of the Crown of France, in the year 987. He was (by some of the French) proclaimed King at Noyon first of all; soon after, in the City of Rheimes (partly by favour, and partly perforce) Crowned King of France, and made his entrance into Paris: whereupon, Charles Duke of Lorraine took Rheimes, Laon, and Soissons. Hugh Capet with a potent Army besieged Laon, D. Charles and his wife & Children surprised by treason. where he took Charles with his Wife and Children, by Treason in the Bishop of the said place, and sent them Prisoners to orleans, where they were very strictly kept, and died. Capet being the Conqueror, maintained, that the kingdom should wholly appertain to him: because Raoull of Burgundy (his uncle) had formerly possessed himself thereof, by the voluntary resignation of Charles the Simple. He caused his son Robert (who had followed his studies) to be crowned at orleans, and to associate him in the kingdoms regiment: taking away the authority of the More of the Palace, when thus he advanced his son, whom he had by Adela, daughter to Edward King of England. He appointed also the twelve Peers again; began the dignity & office of Constable; and established the Marshals of France. He reigned alone, & with his Son 9 years. He founded the abbey of S. Magloire at Paris, and lieth buried at S. Denis. 37 Robert, the son of Hugh Capet, being Crowned King in the life time of his Father, 997 began to rule alone in the year 997. as true inheritor, both of the Crown, and likewise of his Father's virtues. He reigned worthily, being a Man very devout and meek, the Kingdom continuing peaceable, and without war. The virtues of Robert, son to Hugh Capet. This King was very wise, and could compose in Latin very learnedly: for he made many Proses, Hymns, and answers, which yet (to this day) are sung in the Church. He was also well skilled in Music, and would oft-times sing among the cannons, and wear a Cope (for company) with them, living as religiously, as royally. Henry Duke of Burgundy (his Uncle by the Mother's side) made him Heir of his Duchy, leaving it unto him by his Testament: and incited him against Landry Duke of Nevers, (being beloved and supported by the Burgundians) who insulted upon his right, in which attempt they foiled him, and drove him to flight. He joined the City of Sens to the Crown, by confiscation, for a certain delict done by the Count Reynard. He sent his Army against the Valentians, with Richard Duke of Normandy, to assist the Earl of Flanders his Kinsman, against Henry the Emperor. His Wives & children. He had three wives▪ Luthard, Bertha (whom he forsook upon some occasion) and Constance, by whom he had three sons, one whereof died during his reign. In his time was an universal famine and mortality. He died, having reigned 34. years, and lieth buried at S. Denis. 1030. 38 Henry the first succeeded in the kingdom, after his Father Robert, in the year 1030. In his beginning to govern, his younger Brother Robert warred against him, being allied to the Earls of champaign and Flaunders; who strove to make him King, by the procurement of his Stepmother: but he (assisted by the Duke of Normandy, and the Earl of Corbeile) maintained his own quietness. He joined Meulanc to his Crown, by rebellion of the Earl of that place. Raoull king of high Burgundy being dead, the Emperor Conrade seized on that part thereof, which we call La Franche Conte; And the Duchy being Roberts, Brother to the King, the kingdom of Burgundy (which had so contied an hundred and thirty years) was then abolished. The ending of the kingdom of Burgundy. The King seated young William the Bastard, Duke of Normandy, (to whom he had been Guardian) peaceably in his Duchy, because some of his Subjects would have deprived him thereof, as being unwilling to entertain him. The King of the Russians. He founded Saint Martin des Champs, in the same place where his Palace was, without Paris. By Anne his wife, daughter to George or Gaultier king of the Russians, he had Philip and Hugh, and a Daughter married to the Duke of Normandy. Feeling himself to wax week, he caused his Son Philip to be crowned King of France: And before his death, he left Baldwine Earl of Flanders as Guardian of his Children. He reigned 31. years, and lieth buried at Saint Denis. 39 Philip the first, succeeded after his Father, 1061. in the year 1061. During his time, William the Bastard, Duke of Normandy, The conquest of England by William the Bastard. conquered the Realm of England: and Godfrey of Bullen was made King of jerusalem; also the Country of Gastinois came then to the Crown. This king reigned 48. years, and lieth buried at S. Bennets on Loire. 40 Lewes the sixth, sir named le Gros, 1110 immediately after the death of King Philip his Father, in the year 1110. was sacred at orleans by the Bishop of Sens, the way of Rheimes not being then secure. Some Princes and Lords (assisted by the King of England) in the beginning of his reign, did give him many molestations; but still it was his hap to be Conqueror, and the War of the English (very many times appointed) was at last ended. The Pope flieth for refuge into France. Pope Gelasius fled for refuge into France, where he was succoured against the Emperor. In the year 1129. the King caused his Son Philip to be Crowned; who (two years after) died at Paris, by reason of a Hogs running between the Legs of his Horse, that threw him violently on the Pavement, and dying of that hurt, he was buried at Saint Denis. Afterward, he had his other Son Lewes crowned, and it was done by Pope Innocent, he being then in France. At this time were a great company of Lazars and Lepers in France, who would have infected all the rest of the people; but they were all taken and burned. Knight's Templars, & Chartreux Monks. The order of the Knight's Templars, & Chartreux Monks began in this kings reign: and the winds were so rough and impetuous, in the year 1135. that they overturned many Towers, Castles, Trees in Forests, and Mils. This King appeased the troubles in Flanders, Bou●bonnois, & Awergne: he builded the abbey of Saint Victor near Paris; reigned 28. years, died at the age of sixty, leaving six Sons and a daughter, and lieth buried at S. Denis. 1138 41 Lewes the seventh, surnamed the Young man, began to reign after his Father, in the year 1138. He made war on Thibault Earl of champaign, toozoo him the City of Vitry: And (in a great ●age) burned the Church, with 13 hundred persons in it, 1300. persons ●u●ned in a church. that had fled thither for safety. By the solicitation of S. Bernald, he went to Jerusalem with his Queen, and with the Army of the Emperor Conrade: where, besieging Damas', through discord in the Army, he could boast of no advantage; but retiring thence, had not the Ships of Sicily befriended him and his; they had remained Prisoners there. Being returned into France, he made a separation between him and Queen Aelianor his wife, Duchess of Aquitaine and Anjou, upon two suspicions conceived against her. Henry, Duke of Normandy (who afterward was King of England) married her, with her Patrimony of the said two duchies: and thereabout followed great Wars between France and England. The King married Constance, Daughter to the K. of spain, who died soon after: And then he remarried Alice, daughter to the Earl of Blois, by whom he had Philip Dieu-donne, God's gift. Then happened great disturbance in England, between the King and his son, who making his recourse to Lewes, caused thereby a very troublesome war, without any advantage to either side. But in the end they were accorded, and a marriage concluded, A marriage between England & France. of Alice the daughter of Lewes to the son of England. The King died at Paris, having reigned 43. years, and lieth buried in the abbey of Barbeau, which was founded by him. 42 Philip Augustus, surnamed Dieu-donne, 1181. God's gift, succeeded after his Father, in the year 1181. He banished all the jews out of France, and yet afterward permitted them entrance again: ordaining many Edicts against Blasphemers, as also the usury of the jews. He did put to death the Albigeois Heretics, and them of Besiers: augmenting greatly the City of Paris, instituting Sheriffs and Alder-men, Virtuous deeds in a King. commanding the streets to be paved, building also the halls for Students, and the Churchyard of S. Innocent, and enclosing with walls the University side. He went to recover the City of Jerusalem, with Richard Cueur de Lion, King of England; and falling off from him, returned home into France. He had afterward great wars against the said K. Richard, and john without Land his brother, who succeeded him; about the titles of Normandy, Aquitain, Poictu, Maine, Anjou, & Awergne. He won the battle at Bouines against the Emperor Otho, and other French Lords who were entered into rebellion against him: Fifty thousand men slain in one battle. In which battle perished fifty thousand men, and Otho himself was enforced to flight, the Earl of Flanders and the Earl of Bolongne being taken Prisoners, by which reason the king was called the Conqueror. He reigned 43. years, died at Mante, aged 59 & lieth buried at S. Denis, leaving two sons and a daughter. 1224 43 Lewes the eight, succeeded after his Father, in the year 1224. In the life time of his Father, he crossed the Seas, and made War in England, attaining to no such success as he expected. He renewed kindness and Brotherhood between the French and Germans, took Avignon, and warred upon the Albigeois. He reigned three years, and lieth buried at Saint Denis. 1227 44 Lewes the ninth, succeeded his Father Lewes the eight, in the year 1227. Blaunche his Mother (in regard of his young years) was appointed to be Regent: whereat some Lords were discontented, but she took order sufficiently with them. She maintained the war against the English, and agreement was made with them upon solemn Oath, Peace between England and France. to hold Aquitaine, doing homage, and to yield up Normandy, Ponthieu, Maine, and Poitiers. The king being in peace, exercised himself to live Religiously, building Churches, Hospitals, and Monasteries, enriching them with rents & revenues. In the 24. year of his reign, he went to recover the Holy Land, descended into Egypt, and took Damieta. He was afterward so rudely assailed, that he was taken by the Soldan: but delivered again, upon his restoring Damieta, and paying a great ransom. He bought of the Venetians, the Crown of thorns (as was supposed) with other Relics of the passion, & caused them to be safely kept in the holy Chapel at Paris. Many Shepherds, peasants ari●e, and do great hurt in France. understanding that the King was prisoner, arose up in arms, and made great spoil in France: but they were foiled by them of Orleans and Bourges. The king at his return, did very severely chastise blasphemers: And passing afterward into Africa, took Carthage, and assailed Thunis, where the Pestilence happening in his Camp, he died of a flux of blood. He reigned 34. years, and lieth buried at S. Denis. Behold briefly the life and death of King Lewes, ninth of that name, who afterward by Pope Boniface the eight, in the time of Philip le Bel, K. of France called a Saint was canonized among the number of Saints in Rome's Calendar, and called S. Lewes. His reign was truly in piety, religion, sanctity and justice. His youth was much tormented with rebellions, sublevations, & seditions of some Lords: but his manly years did disperse them, as the Sun doth dim clouds. He was devout, upright, valiant, liberal, severe, and yet clement, using all these Virtues, according as he knew them to be needful. 1271 45 Philip the third, Son of S. Lewes, was proclaimed King in the Camp before Thunis, in the year, 1271. but was afterward Sacred at Rheimes. He was surnamed Philip the hardy, and at his coming back into France, he had many difficulties, about the death of Philip his empoisoned Son, in the Wars of Foix and Terracon. Upon an Easter day, in the evening hour, all the French (being then in Sicily) were every one slain, The Sicili-Vespres. whereon grew the Byword of the Sicilian Vespres or Evening. The king died at Parpignan, in the fortieth year of his age, and lieth buried at Saint Denis, he married Isabel, Daughter to Peter of Arragon, by whom he had Philip, Charles, and Marie: And then, remarrying Marie, Daughter unto Henry Duke of Brabant, he had by her Lewes and Margaret. 1286. 46 Philip the fourth, surnamed le Bell, or the Fair, Son to the forenamed Philip, succeeded his Father, in the year, 1286. both in the Kingdom of France and Navarre, in right of his wife. In his younger days he had a Schoolmaster, a Roman borne, and a great Divine, named giles, who caused the King to write an excellent work (yet to be seen) called The Institution of Princes. As the King was at Paris, A Book written by the King. being returned from his Coronation at Rheimes; this Divine (according to the Universities ancient custom, which was, to make a learned speech after the king's sacring) made a singular Oration to him to increase his desire in following Virtue & piety, preserving his subjects in peace and tranquillity. He built the sumptuous Palace of Paris, & subdued the Flemings, who had forsaken his part, & given aid to the English against him; the Earl of Flanders, and his two sons being then taken prisoners. The King left a Garrison in the country, but they were slain in a commotion of the people: Whereupon, the Earl of Flanders (having given his faith to the King) was sent thither with one of his sons: but being able to do no good, he returned back again to the King, and died soon after at Compeign. The k. went thither himself in person, & at the first had no better success: but at length, he charged them so furiously, that he foiled 36000. whereon they were constrained to make atonement, and pay him 200000. Crowns. The day of Coutray, was afterward favourable to the Flemings, but deplorable to the French, the English prevailing mightily against them. Then came the Bulls of Pope Boniface against Phillippe, The Pope's Bulls against the King, burned. but they were burned in the Court of the Palace: which made Boniface to excommunicate the King, but Bennet his Successor absolved him again. In his time was the Papal See, trans-ferred to Avignon, The Popes See was brought to Avignon. where it continued threescore & ten years, Rome being then governed by Legates. The king died at Fountainebleu, which was the place of his birth: having reigned 28. years, and lieth buried at S. Denis. 47 Lewes the tenth, surnamed Hutin (after the conformity of his manners) succeeded his Father, in the year, 1314. 1314 and had his right also, (after his Mother) in the kingdom of Navarre. Enguerrand de Marigni, General of the Finances, being accused to have robbed the king's treasury, was hanged at Montfaucon, which he himself first caused to be made. Lewes took first to wife Margaret, Enguerrand executed at Montfaucon. Daughter to Robert Duke of Burgundy, by whom he had a Daughter. Next, he married Constance, whom he left with child of a Son, named john, that lived but eight days. This King reigned but xviij. months, died at Boys de Vinciennes, and is buried at S. Denis. 1316. 48 Philip the fifth, Surnamed the Long, succeeded after his Brother Lewes Hutin in the kingdom, being called Long▪ in regard of his tall stature and slenderness. The Duke of Burgundy, would have troubled his possession of the crown, in regard of his Daughter's Daughter▪ but the Salic Law did not favour him therein. This King Philip married jane, Daughter to Otholine Earl of Burgundy, by whom he had three daughters: The first married with the Son to the Duke of Burgundy; the second, the Son to the Earl of Flaunders; and the third to the Dauphin of Viennois, by which marriages all Wars were assuaged in France. Marriages make peace in France. During his reign, divers Lepers and Lazars (procured thereunto by the jews) poisoned all the wells which caused a great Pestilence through the Kingdom: but both the one and other were grievously punished therefore. Never could this King obtain of his people, any impost or Taxation by him levied. He made a Law, that there should be in his kingdom, but one kind of weight, one measure, and one money, commanding that it should be duly kept. But while this was in execution, he died, without any heirs male, having reigned five years in peace, and lieth buried at S. Denis. In these times, certain Troops of Country people, that were called Pastors and Shepherds, arose again in France, as formerly some had done in the time of King Lewes the ninth. These men made their vaunt, Another rising of peasants in France. that they would cross the Seas, and go war against the Infidels. They had two chief men of mark among them, and well beseeming such an assembly, to wit, a Priest, that (for his mis-behaviour) was expulsed his Church: and an Apostata Monk, of the Order of S. Bennet. These two fellows, so abused the hearts and belief of the poor popularity, that silly Shepherds left their Flocks, and labourers their Manual trades, to follow these two impostures: who made them verily believe, that the Holy Land could be recovered by none but them. In conclusion, this heap of Rascality was quailed in Languedoc, because, in stead of preparing their fury against the Infidels, and passing the Seas: they fell upon the jews, whom the king had repealed into France. 1321 49 Charles le Bell, Son to Philip the fourth, succeeded after his Brother, in the year 1321. and likewise was King of Navarre, as his three predecessors had been. He had three wives▪ Blanch, (whom he divorced for her adultery) Marry, and Margaret. jourdain de l'Isle (albeit he was Nephew to Pope john the two and twentieth) was hanged and strangled at Paris, jourdain de l'Isle hanged at Paris for his strange offences. This King fell to concord with the English, appeased the Earl of Flaunders, and drew his people to a mutual Reconciliation. He was a great justicer, reigned seven years, died at Boys de Vinciennes, and is buried at Saint Denis. By his death, the second branch of the Capets (called De Valois) came to the Royalty, and began in 1328. 50 Philip de Valois, Cousin German to the three precedent Kings, dying without heir male: his succession was in the year, 1328. His right to the Crown was dearly disputed, between him and King Edward the third of England, Son to the Sister of the three forenamed Kings, who (preferring his Mother's Title) would needs be King of France, contrary to the Decree of the Law Salic, and consent of all the States. He did king Philip homage for Guyenne and Ponthieu; but (being not well pleased therewith) cut him off quite from Flanders, Bretaigne, Germany, Crecy, The Battle of Crecy, & great loss of the French. where Philip lost the day, with the very flower of all the French Nobility, taking Calais also by their flight. Truce being taken between both the Kings: Edward of England had both the Title of king, and Arms of France or conquest, which ever after was attributed to him & his. Philip, reigned 22. years, died at Nogent, and lieth buried at S. Denis. 51 john, Son to Philip de Valois, 1350. succee-his Father, in the year 1350. proving as unfortunate in those tempestuous times, as his father had done before him. He married joan, Countess of Bolongne, by whom he had four sons and one Daughter. Raoull the Constable of France was beheaded in prison. King john, as a prisoner brought into England. In the day at Poitiers, King john was taken by the English, and carried into England, which imprisonment of his, caused many pitiful Tragedies, the most furious whereof were acted in the chief Cities of France. Four years after, King john passed into England, for the freedom of his Hostages: but there he died at London, having reigned 13. years. His son caused his body to be brought to S. Denis. 52 Charles the fifth, Son to King john, 1364. succeeded his Father, in the year 1364. He sustained very great troubles during the captivity of his father, by a commotion which the k. of Navarre raised at Paris, who was aided by the merchants of the said City, and would have had the Regency, but that Charles (being then Dauphin) made opposition against him. He dealt for the ransom and deliverance of his Father: after whose decease, he was crowned King. He took to Wife joan, Daughter to Charles Duke of Bourbon, by whom he had three Sons, and one daughter. He maintained great wars against the English, Five armies at one time against the English. having (at one instant) five several Armies in field against them, because they were such potent enemies: And to supply so mighty a charge, he was fain to lay a heavy taxation upon wine and Salt. Bertrand de Guesclin, a most worthy Knight, was then his high Constable: And the Bastille at Paris was then builded. A sedition happened at Montpellier, and six hundred of the seditious were executed. This King was surnamed the Wise, for his deep discretion, goodness, and government. The Bible's first verssion into the French tongue. He so loved Learning, that he caused the Holy Bible to be translated into the French Language (which remaineth yet) in the Royal Cabinet of the Lowre) with many other good Books beside. He had still an eye to justice, sitting daily to hear causes, and ordering all his affairs by Counsel. With much ado, he regained some Towns from the English, in Poictu and Xaintonge. He reigned sixteen years, yielded his soul to God at Chasteau de beauty, and lieth buried at S. Denis. The Sect of the Turlupins was then abolished. See Emil. Lib. 9 1380 52 Charles the sixth, son of Charles the fifth, was crowned King at the age of fouretéen years, being under the government of his Uncles, the Dukes of Berry, Burgundy, 〈…〉 and the Duke of Anjou, who got into their custody many millions of Gold, left by the King deceased. And then, (no Money being to be found) the people were charged with heavy impositions, whereby great seditions happened at Paris, Roven, and orleans. The King took into the Arms of France again, the three Floure-de-luces' only, Factions in the Court of France. and fell sick of a Frenzy: by reason of two factions in his Court, the Dukes of Berry and Burgundy, against the Dukes of orleans and Bourbon, whereby many lamentable mishaps ensued. The Princes took the government into their hands, and division happening (concerning the treasure) the Duke of Burgundy caused the Duke of orleans to be slain at Paris, and the Duke of Burgundy was slain at Montereau. Philip his Son craved aid of the English, who presently took (well near) all Normandy; beside the unhappy day (to the French) of Agincourt or Azincourt, where many wo●ull Tragedies were acted on the Theatre of France by the English, Burgundians, and the King's Mother, who was imprisoned at Paris. The King of England married Madam Katherine of France. The Duke of Burgundy delivered him the King, the Queen, and the City of Paris, The King of England crowned in France. where he caused him to be crowned King, and many other Cities and Towns were delivered him beside. King Charles having reigned forty two years, died at Paris, and lieth buried at Saint Denis. His reign was long, but full of calamity. 1423 54 Charles the seventh, Son to Charles the sixth, was made King in the year 142. He found his Kingdom possessed (in all parts) by the English; Paris and the greater part of the Realm, being then commanded by the Duke of Bedford, Regent for young Henry King of England; who called himself King of France; held his Parliament at Paris; was there crowned king; and made the Seal and Monies also in his own name: King Charles having nothing else, but the Countries of Poictu, Berry, and orleans, whereon the English (in a mockery) called him the king of Bourges. They went to besiege the City of orleans; but they were thence repulsed by the French Captains: For they had a Maid in their Company, who was called joan the Pucelle, joan the Pucelle of France. and they verily believed, that she was sent of God, for the succour of King Charles, and to chase the English out of France. The King, after the discomfiture of the English near to Partenay; was conducted to Rheimes, and there crowned: But the English got the Pucelle, and burned her at Roven The King made peace with the Duke of Burgundy, who forthwith left the English; and afterward recovered Paris and Normandy from them. King Charles reigned 38. years, and lieth buried at S. Denis. 1461 55 Lewes the eleventh, succeeded his Father, in the year 1461. being then in Burgundy, whence the Duke conveyed him to Rheimes, where he was crowned. He found a number of notable Enemies, both Domestical and Foreign: For his Lords made war against him, which they termed The Weal-public war, & he lost the day to them at Montlehery, The order of S. Michael instituted Gransson, Nancy, and Guinegaste. The order of S. Michael was then instituted, and jacques d'Armaguac beheaded. His reign was full of fear, suspicion, and treachery, which so pierced his heart; that, in a long time of dismay (after 33. years government) he died, and lieth buried at Nostre Dame de Clery. 56 Charles the eight, 1484. succeeded his Father Lewes, in the year 1484. being crowned at the age of 14. years: yet the State's meeting at Tours, appointed that he should not have any Regent. He sustained a long war in Bretayne, which termined by his marriage with Anne, eldest Daughter to France's Duke of Bretayne; by whom he had three Sons, but could not long enjoy any one of them. At the request of his Confessor, he rendered to the King of Spain the Earldoms of Roussillon and Parpignan, which his Father had won. Being in peace, he adventured to recover the kingdom of Naples, The Kingdom of Naples won by the French. which he did (without striking one stroke) in full conquest: K. Alphonsus and his son Ferdinand being thence retired, & left Glibert de Montpensier Viceroy there. Returning home into France, he was assailed on the way by the Romans, Venetians, and them of Milleyne at Fornouë, where his person was in great danger, the enemies being ten to one: Nevertheless, he charged them with such courage, that he bore thence the victory. He delivered the Duke of orleans, being besieged in Novarre, and made peace with the Duke of Milan. He returned home into France, where he died (within a year after) at Amboise, as he stood and beheld the Princes playing at Tennis. He reigned fourteen years, and lieth buried at S. Denis. Thus ended (in him) the direct line of Valois, he dying without any heirs Masle; and then followed the collateral Issue, which began in 1499 57 LEwes the twelft, nearest of Kin to Charles the eight, in the year 1499. He being Duke of orleans, and also of Valois. He repudiated joan, Daughter to King Lewes the eleventh, whom he had married perforce; and espoused Anne of Bretaigne, Widow to the King his Predecessor. He established a Parliament at Roven, gave orders to the University of Paris; sent his Army into Italy, took Genes and milan, and Lewes Sforza, Duke of Milleyne, The kingdom of Naples reconquered who died a Prisoner in France. The Kingdom of Naples was retaken, under the conduct of Monsieur d' Aubigny: And the King vanquished the Venetians Army at Agnadell, where he took Bartholomew their Leader, albeit the Pope banded with the Venetians against him. Gaston de Foix. Gaston de Foix took Boulongne, and won the battle near to Ravenna: where he was slain, by chase the enemies overfar; and yet notwithstanding, the victory remained to the French, with surprisal of the City, and many Captains and great persons taken Prisoners. Hereupon, the Pope raised many heavy enemies against him, whom (in the end) he worthily vanquished. He reigned 17. years, and lieth buried at S. Denis. 58 Frances de Valois (as nearest of Kin) succeeded King Lewes, in the year 1515. 1515 This King bore such affection to learning, that he was surnamed The Father and Restorer of the Sciences. At his beginning, he overcame the Swissers, took Milan and Fontarabie. Afterward, being desirous to win the Towns belonging to the Duchy of Milan, and to bring his siege before Pavia: he was taken Prisoner, in the year 1524. and carried Captive into Spain. The King carried prisoner into Spain. France was then very greatly afflicted, not only by this disaster; but by a great Famine, because the Corn was frozen up in the Earth. The King was delivered by a treaty holden at Madrill, and married Elinor, Sister to Charles the fifth, Emperor; peace being then concluded, in the year 1535. The King possessed himself of Savoy & Piedmont, repulsing the Emperor out of Provence: But peace being made for ten years, the Emperor passed through France, with very great entertainment. War began in the Low-Countries, The English won Bullen. which (after many alarms) was accorded in the year 1544. even then when the English won Bullen. The King deceased at Rambovillet, having reigned 32. years, an lieth buried at S. Denis. 1547. 59 Henry the second succeeded his father Frances de Valois, in the year 1547. No way degenerating from the laudable virtues of his father. He renewed and confirmed the alliance (made by his Father) with the Swissers, and took the Forts about Bullen on the Sea, by such furious assaults, and overmuch neglect in the English, that they forsook them, and made a peace. In the year 1552. he made his voyage for Germany, to maintain the liberty of certain Princes, who had (in the case) required his help. He brought Metz in Lorraine under his obedience; and (at his return) took Danuilliers, Yuoy, Monmedy, and other places, withdrawn by his Enemies. He made agreement with Pope julius the third, delivering Mirandola & Parma; reducing also Siennato her ancient liberty, whereof the Spaniards had bereaved her. During this time, the Emperor came and besieged Metz, where (without doing any thing) he lost a great number of his men. The K. marching into the Low-Countryes, took Mariembourg, Bovoines, and Divant, driving his Enemy undauntedly before him. In the year 1555. truce being taken with the emperor, Philip King of Spain, and the King of England (which lasted but a while) & the French forces being in Italy, under conduct of Seigneur de Guise: S. Laurance day at Saint Quintines. the King assailed S. Quintines, and won the day, which was called S. Laurance day. In the year 1557. the K. having assembled the same power, and under the same Leader; took Calais, Guines, Hames, and the County of Oy, with the City of Thionuille the year following. Peace being finally concluded between them, by means of marriage of Philip King of Spain, with Elizabeth the eldest Daughter of France, and the Prince of Piedmont, with Margaret only Sister to King Henry: In toy of the said marriages and peace, a Turney was celebrated in Paris, in the street of Saint Anthony, King Henry hurt in ●●lting. & died soon after. where King Henry (running in the Lists) was smitten with the Counter-cuffe of a Lance into the head, whereof he died the tenth day of july, 1559. and in the 13. year of his reign, being interred at Saint Denis. 60 Frances, second of that name, 155● aged about 15. or 16. years old, succeeded his Father, in Anno. 1559. In the life time of his Father, he married Madam Mary Stuart▪ Daughter to the King of Scots: And the 15. day of September, he was sacred at Rheimes, by the Cardinal of Lorraine, Archbishop of the said place. Thence he accompanied Madam the Duchess of Lorraine his Sister, so far as Barleduc, and withdrawing thence to Amboise, thither came divers men in arms (whereon it was called the tumult of Amboise) who said; The tumult of Amboise that they would present requests to the King, concerning the government, and matter of Religion: But because they came in Arms, some of them were executed, and the rest appeased by the King's Edict. The King, after a Council holden at Fontainebleau; appointing an assembly of the States, to hear the grievances of his people, and distrusting some intended mutiny: he went to the City of Orleans in Arms, where being desirous to proceed in his purpose, he fell sick of a Catarrh which happened in one of his ears, whereof he died the fifth day of December, 1560. and lieth buried at S. Denis. 1560 61 Charles, ninth of that name, succeeded his Brother Frances, in the year, 1560. And because he was but eleven years old, the kingdoms affairs were governed by the Queen his Mother: Anthony of Bourbon Lieutenant General. Anthony of Bourbon, and king of Navarre, being made Lieutenant general, which was to the great contentment of all the States then assembled at orleans. The reign of this King was traverssed with many civil dissensions, about the matter of Religion: whereon ensued the assembly of Poissi, the Edict of january, the death of the Duke de Guise, slain at the siege of orleans by Poltrot. Then followed the Voyage of Bayonne, the battles of Dreux, S. Denis, Ia●nac, and Montcontour, with other Edicts of pacification: And the marriage of Henry of Bourbon, with Margaret de Valois, whereat happened that most bloody and lamentable massacre. The bloody massacre at Paris. Then the siege of Sancerre, and that of Rochel, with the retreat of the Prince of Conde in Germany: And lastly, the death of the King, (without any children) being even overwearied with such numberless disturbances. The King died the 30. day of May, 1574. at Chasteau de Vinciennes lez Paris. But before his death, he left the Queen his Mother Regent, until his Brother (who was then King of Poland) were returned to France; and he lieth buried at Saint Denis. 62 Henry, third of that name, 1574 being returned from Poland (to the no little grief of that Nation, so to part with their King) upon the third day of February, 1575. it being the very same day in Lent, whereon he had been formerly crowned King of Poland in the City of Cracovia, was likewise Sacred and Crowned at Rheimes by the reverent Cardinal of Guise. The 15. day following of the same month, was he married to Madam Loyse, Daughter to my Lord the Earl of Vaudemont, of the ancient and noble house of Lorraine. His reign was diversly agitated with partialities in Religion, which passed under pretext (in faction form against the State) and covered with the name of an holy league or Union, The holy League or Union. against which, he combated with difficulties enough▪ and diversity of exploits on either side. Under his government was the overthrow of the Rutters Army: the battle of Coutras, the Estates of Blois, and almost the whole revolt of France. The Reconciliation of two Kings, which so pressed the factious and rebellious: The King murdered by a jacobine Friar. that they had no other recourse, but to a most execrable parricide, which was committed on the King's person at S. Clou, by jacques Clement a jacobine Monk, the first day of August. 1589. And so ended (in him) the race of that Royal branch of Valois. 1589. 63 HEnry the fourth, being formerly King of Navarre, by right of succession came to be K. of France also, being issued in direct line from Robert Earl of Clermont in Beaunoisis, and the last Son of S. Lewes. The beginning of his reign was very Thorny, marked with very signal actions in his progress, the most memorable whereof, (for brevities sake) by a person of great honour and repute, were noted in these four lives. Arques, Yuri, Dijon still shall bear the marks, Of honour right and courage in that king, To whom the stranger's pride stands trembling, To hear the fights of Dijon, Yuri, Arques. Here, the life, fame, and due merit of that great King, would give me way into a large field of ample discourse, did not my purposed brevity make imbarment. Wherefore, with the very words of a worthy and learned Gentleman, I will conclude, and sum up this Man of men, this Princelike Soldier, and Souldiour-like Prince: whose Royal face was white with Time, watchings, and experience, and the Lawrelles which did begirt his venerable head, and took their root in his Cask, were gathered in the grounds of three pitched fields, thirty five encounters of Armies, one hundred and forty Combats, and three hundred several sieges of places, in all which, his person strove (if it were possible) to have got the start of his courage. That the sacred person of so great a King, should be undone by the hand of an unholy villain, and his own▪ vassal: that a Prince of the Sword, should be butchered with a Knife. That he, who had returned victoriously alive, from the head of so many Armies (where death kept his open Shambles) should be robbed of his life, by the hand of only one, and in the peaceful streets of Paris, which were as yet even warm with the glory of his queens Coronation, performed but the day before: Is such a villainy, as exceeds (if it were possible) the just merit of damnation, and that two Kings of one Kingdom, should one after the other be so shamefully murdered, jacques Clement. the one by a jacobine Friar, the other sometimes of the Feliants Order, Francis Ravilliart. is such an indelible blot on the brow of France, as the utmost date of time can never wipe off, nor any Pen sufficiently express, the sorrow fitting a Theme so unpleasing. 64 Lewes, the thirteenth of that Name, 1610. elbest Son to King Henry the fourth, and Maria de Medici's his Queen, being then scarcely ten years old, succeeded his Father, in the kingdoms Dignity, but the Queen his Mother was proclaimed Regent. May he long live, heir unto his Father's Fame and Heroical virtues, but, defended (by the hand of heaven) from his fate and hard Fortune, as all Christian Princes else (I pray to God) may be likewise preserved. A Brief Chronological Survey, concerning the Netherlands, divided into 17. provinces: with a Breviate of the Earls and Princes there reigning, from Thierrie (who was the first Earl of Holland and Zealand) to this instant time. COncerning the Original of the people inhabiting these countries, we find, that two Brethren, sons to the King of * A people near to the Se●thians. Cathes, the one being named Battus, or Batton, & the other Zelandus, were the first Fathers of them, and that (from them) they derived their names. For these two Princes, being too extremely pursued by the hatred of a Stepmother, & no way pitied or supported by the King their father (escaping many trains and machinations, of poisoning, murdering, and divers other dangers by her daily devised, & put in practice against them) were forced to forsake their native abiding & fly to an Island within the Rhine: where Battus determining to make his stay, Battavia is Holland. called it Battavia after his own name, & that is, in plainer understanding, Holland. Zelandus, not liking to live so near, or with his Brother (lest pursuit should surprise them both, & revenge there fasten, which in more desperate place they had avoided) he travailed on to the uttermost cou●nes of the Rhine, and liking there to set down his rest, imitated his Brother's example (in styling the Country) and called it Zealand. Zealand named by Zelandus. Concerning their building of Cities, Towns, Castles, and Forts, which afterward came to be ruined and defaced again, by wars with the Romans, Saxons, Gauls, Danes, etc. or to what order of life the people disposed themselves, and through how many and infinite encumbrances (from their original) they passed for no mean store of years together: these are matters merely exempt from our intended brevity, and may more amply be seen in the history at large, whereunto I refer any such desirous Reader, and borrowing favour for so large a leap, I instantly proceed to the year, 863. when Holland first became to be an Earldom. In the year before mentioned, 863 Charles the Bald, King of France, at Bladell, in the Province of Campeigne, having there (in his company) a general assembly of his Princes and Barons, for consultation of many important matters: pleased to advance the two Sons of Count Haghen (who was Uncle to the King) for their great deservings, The two Sons of Count Haghen. and for the farther encouragement of the like virtuous minded Gentlemen. Walger, who was the eldest Son, he made Earl of Teysterbaudt; and Thierrie, the youngest Son, or Theodor, as some term him, being formerly called Thierrie of Aquitaine, he made Earl of Holland. This gift of the Kings, especially that to Thierry, was much withstood by the Frizelanders, as scorning to be commanded by any new Lord or Ruler: wherefore they consulted with the Hollanders, and a plot was laid to expel this new Earl. But it proved to no effect, for the King coming thither (in person) with a powerful army, made such an example on the Ringleaders in this Rebellion, that the rest (in great humility) submitted themselves, casting their weapons not only at the kings feet, but likewise at the Earls, and (upon pardon) they vowed their continual bounden duty to Thierrie. His authority was then further strengthened, in the year 868. by the Letters Patents of King Charles, as also by them of Lewes, Thierry Earl of Holland, Zealand and Lord of Frizeland. King of Germany, confirming him to be Earl of Holland, Zealand, and Lord of Frizeland. This Thierrie married Genna, or jenna, Daughter to Pepin the Bald, king of Italy, Son to the Emperor Charlemaigne. He worthily foiled the Danes, that then possessed the Town of Vtrecht, the Wiltes and the Slaves, disabling them from any further footing in Holland, which made them presume to meddle in Zealand, but thence they were repulsed likewise. By which means he remained afterward in peace, beautifying his Countries, both with fair buildings and good Laws. He died very old, having reigned forty years, and after him succeeded 2 Thierrie his Son, second of that name, Earl of Holland, Zealand, and Lord of Frizeland, who married with Hildegarde, Daughter to King Lewes of France, the Stammerer, and Sister to King Charles the Simple. The Frizelanders did twice revolt from their obedience, The Frizelanders rebel again. and would not allow Earl Thierrie to be their Lord, but slew very many of them that obeyed the Earl, wasting, spoiling, and burning all the way as they went. But at length, they were justly repaid for their insolency, and such a slaughter was made of the Frysons (without any merry) that few or none of them returned home to their dwellings. Afterward, he forced them to make the doors of entrance into their houses, so low and narrow, that they must stoop very low before they could get in, and this he did, to make them the more humble and servile, receiving a new Oath of allegiance of them. And having reigned about fifty years, being then aged 88 years old, he died, leaving two Sons behind him, the eldest whereof (being named Egbert) became Archbishop of Treues, and Arnold his youngest Son succeeded him. 3 arnold, or (as others will have it) Arnulph, youngest Son to Earl Thierrie, followed in rule as his Father's Successor: But he held the Earldoms of Holland, Zealand, and Lordship of Frizeland, no longer of the Crown of France, but of Otho the third, Emperor, and so became in fee to the Empire. A very fearful Comet appeared in his time, with strange Eclipses both of the Sun and Moon, being as red as blood, A dreadful Comet, Eclipses and earthquakes and terrible Earthquakes: a fire also fell from Heaven, in similitude like an huge Tower, burning for a long time: after which ensued so violent a Pestilence, that the living died burying the dead. The Frizons revolting again from obedience, made all his reign a continual warfare, and the Armies (on either side) meeting near unto Winckell, so dreadful a battle was fought between them; that the Hollanders sustained the worst, Count arnold being there slain, and a great number of his chiefest Nobility. This battle was fought the eighteenth of October, the morrow after Saint Lambert's day, in the year 993. So this Earl arnold, having reigned five years, and being thus unfortunately slain, was buried by his Father and Grandfather, in the Abbey of Egmont. 4 Thierrie, third of that name, and Son to Count arnold, succeeded as fourth Earl of Holland, Zealand, and Lord of Frizeland. Being desirous to revenge his Father's death upon the Frizons: he was much impeached therein by Adelbold, Adelbold Bishop of Vtrecht. Bishop of Vtrecht, against whom (nevertheless) heprevailed in two fought battles, in the year 10●8. and (with great slaughter of the Fryzons) brought them under obedience to his youngest Son Floris, whom he made Lord of them. This Earl Thierrie, living afterward in very peaceful days, undertook a Pilgrimage to jerusalem, with the Lord of Arckell▪ his loyal Subject; who died at Jerusalem, and was there very honourably buried by Thierrie. After whose return home, and some years passed in peace with his Wife and Children, having reigned 46. years, he died in Anno 1039. and was buried by his Fathers in the abbey of Egmont. 5 Thierrie, fourth of that name, 1039. was the fifth Earl of Holland, Zealand, and Lord of Frizeland, after the decease of Thierrie his Father. In a journey of Princes and Lords, performed (for pleasure) in the City of Liege, it was this Earls hard hap, to kill a Brother of the Bishops of Cullen and Liege: The Bishops of Cullen and Liege. whereby ensued such discord and molestation, that, after many adventures of revenge, undertaken by the German Gentlemen, albeit, therein they sustained much loss of men, the Earl was shot into the Thigh with a poisoned Dart, of which wound he died the fifteenth of May 1048. 1048. after he had governed nine years, and was buried by his Fathers, in the abbey of Egmont. He was never married, and therefore left not any Child to succeed him. 6 Floris, who (as you have heard before) was Earl of Frizeland, now after his Brother's death, became the sixth Earl of Holland and Zealand. The former mishap at Liege, could not as yet be forgotten by the Bishops of Cullen and Liege; but they would needs prosecute fresh revenge upon Count Floris, who being a man of undaunted spirit, defeated his Enemies in two several attempts. Once by a cunning Stratagem, Two military Stratagems. causing Ditches and Pitfalls to be made in South Holland, and covering them with Straw and grass, so that they could not be easily discerned. At this time, a bloody battle being fought between them, there was forty thousand of the Earls enemies slain, beside twenty six thousand more, who were drowned and smothered in those Ditches. An. Dom. 1058. The second foil of his adversaries, happened four years after this, when the Hollanders (putting the Germans to flight) returned with rich spoils and great store of Prisoners, this was in the year 1062. yet was it this Earls ill fortune, to be afterward slain unarmed, as he sat under an Elm, taking the air, his enemy's prevailing by this advantage. He had ruled in Holland 14. years, and in Frizeland 21. and lieth buried at Egmont. 7, 8. Gertrude, widow to Earl Floris, in regard that Thierrie her son was in his nonage, governed those Countries in his right. And in the year 1063. 1063. she remarried with Robert the Frizon (son to Baldwin of Lisle de Buck, Robert the Frizon. Earl of Flanders) with the good liking of all the States and Nobility. He also was made Guardian of young Earl Thierrie, and (had this Gertrude) three Sons, Robert, surnamed the young (who went with Godfrey of Bullen to the holy Land, and was (after his Father decease) Earl of Flanders;) Philip, father to William of Ixt, & Baldwin Bishop of Teroanne; beside three daughters also, which he had by the said Gertrude. This Robert was called the Frizon, not in regard of his birth, but of his big stature, strength and courage, for having prevailed against the Frizons, and hearing of his Brother's death, Baldwine de Mons, Earl of Flanders; he laid claim to the said Earldom, and (notwithstanding the opposition of Richild Widow to Earl Baldwin: by means of the Flemings, he overthrewe the King of France in a battle, and she with her Son Baldwine, remaining satisfied with the Country of Henault, Robert Earl of Flanders Robert became quietly Earl of Flanders. For eight years space, he carried himself with great wisdom and valour, and dying in the year 1077. 1077. was buried in the Cannon's Church, founded by himself at Cassel. Gertrudes time of rule by herself, and Roberts after, are reckoned as two several governments. 9 Godfrey, The Crook backed duke of Lorraine surnamed the Crooke-backt Duke of Lorraine, in this time of young Earl Thierry's minority, was made an instrument (in regard of the former quarrel of Count Floris, and the Bishops of Cullen and Liege, as yet not revenged to their minds) to suggest a false information to Henry the fourth, Emperor, whereby the said Godfrey became an Usurper of the young Earls right, for the space of four years. But, as he was sitting on the draft to ease his body, a Servant of young Count Thierries, did thrust a javelin up into his fundament, whereof he died (not long after) at Maestrecht. 10 Thierry, fifth of that name, who (by Crooke-backt Godfrey, and other strange oppositions) had long time been debarred from quiet possession of his right; at length, by an absolute conquest of the Frizons, The Fryzons conquered in two battles. in two several great battles, recovered all, and returned home as a Conqueror. Afterward, he married Whithilde, daughter to Frederick, Duke of Saxony, by whom he had a Son and a Daughter: Floris, that succeeded him, and Mathild, married to the Duke of Orleans. Earl Thierrie having governed fifteen years, died, and was buried in the Abbey of Egmont. 1119 11 Floris, second of that name, and surnamed the Fat or Gross, succeeded next after his father Thierrie: he greatly favoured men of the Church, whereby the Abbey of Egmont's revenues were largely increased. He being a man of very peaceful inclination, little or no disturbaunces happened in his time: but only by the Frizons, who, for their rebelling, were severely punished, and forced to submit themselves to his mercy. This Floris married Petronilla, or Parnell, Daughter to Didier, Dider duke of Savoy. Duke of Saxony, and Sister to Lotharius the Emperor: By her he had three Sons; Thierrie, Floris, called the Black Prince of Kenemerlandt; and Simon, also one Daughter, named Hadewick, who was Countess of Gueldres. Having governed his Countries very honourably, for the space of thirty one years; He died in Anno. 1133. and lieth buried in the Abbey of Egmont. 1133 12 Thierrie, sixth of that name, succeeded his Father Floris, and was much mollested by the Frizons, in regard, that his Brother Floris the Black Prince, envying the happiness & quiet of Thierrie, went and took part with them against him; until such time as the Emperor Lotharius (being their Uncle) had reconciled them, and made them friends. Conrade being joined as competitor in the Empire, with Lotharius, Lotharius & Conrade Emperors. caused a fresh quarrel between Thierrie and the Bishop of Vtrecht, he ratifying the former grant of Henry, which caused very long contention, and much blood to be shed on either side. Thierrie having governed his countries of Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland 40. years, died in An. 1163. and lieth buried in the Abbey of Egmont. 13 Floris the third, eldest Son of Earl Thierrie, as Heir to his Father, 11●3 inherited his right in Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland. The Frizons (pretending their former freedoms and imperial liberties) made still their revoltes from time to time, emboldened thereto by the often suggestions of Godfrey of Rhemen, Bishop of Vtrecht, who as his predecessors had done before him, Earldoms of Ostergo & Westergoe. still questioned the Earldoms of Ostergo & Westergoe in Frizeland: but the Emperor Frederick went himself in person, & made an agreement in writing between them. All which notwithstanding, much hurt was done on either side, as time and treachery fitted them with apt opportunity. A great controversy happened between the Earls of Holland & Flanders, for the Isle of Walchren, 1166. and Count Floris (in trial of fight) became Prisoner to the Earl of Flanders: who nevertheless used him princely, and they being accorded by the Archbishop of Cullen, and the Bishop of Liege; the great hole near to the Dam or Sluice, The Dam or Sluice, called dogs Sluice. was recovered with much ado, by casting a Dogge-Fish thereinto, & speedy filling it up with earth, whereon they named it Hond●dam, that is, Dogs-sluce. This Earl Floris, assisting the Emperor Frederick, Philip King of France, Richard K. of England, with many other Dukes, Christian Princes & Earls, at the siege of Damieta in So●ia; fell there sick in the Army, 1208. and died in the year 1208 having governed his Provinces 27. years. 14 Thierrie the seventh, hearing of his Father's death in Palestine; succeeded as his heir in all his Earldoms. The whole time of his regiment, was in war and continual combustions. First by his Brother Lord William of Holland, L. William of Holland. (who was with his Father Floris in Palestine, & performed there many honourable services) thorough divers disagréements that happened between them, notwithstanding as many laboured reconcilings, 1198. and pacifications. Next, Baldwin Earl of Flanders, he was as molestuous to him likewise, for the Isle of Walchien: besides the Frizons rebellions, and his trouble with the Bishops of Cologne and Liege, as also his imprisonment to the Duke of Brabant, and then the intrusion of the Bishop of Vtrecht, after which, ensued a peace & united amity on all sides. This Count Thierrie had no heirs male, but two beautiful daughters; Adella, married to Henry of Gueldres, who died without any Children, and Ada, meanly married by her Mother, (af●er her Father's death) to Count Lewes of Loose, that so the government might be disposed at her pleasure. 1203. In the year 1203 Earl Thierry died, having governed his Countries 1.3 years, and lieth buried in the abbey of Egmont. 15 Ada, daughter to Earl Thierry, was Countess of Holland & Zealand, after her father's death; The governmet of a Woman despised. which moved a great hart-burning in the Lords & Gentlemen, that they should live under a Woman, and a poor Earls command. Therefore they sent into Frizeland for Count William, protesting to assist him in attaining the government of Holland. The young Countess Ada was surprised in their first attempt, and her husband the Earl of Loose driven to flight; who yet won the Bishop of Vtrecht (by Money and other promises) to aid him, and by this means he had some small success for a while. But the Countess Ada dying without any Children, Earl William was then the true and only Heir to Holland and Zealand, in which right of his, he went with his power against the Earl of Loose, and such was his success, that the Women did beat his Enemies with Distaves and Stones, Women beat Men with Distaves and stones. they being glad to cast away their Armour for lightness, to save themselves by flight: yet many were drowned in the Ditches, and a great number taken Prisoners, with all the Earl of Loose Tents, Pavilions, Plate, jewels, and Munition, which Count William royally divided among his Hollanders, remaining absolute Prince of Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland. 16 William, first of that Name, 121●. succeeded rightfully in all his Earldoms, by the death of his niece the young Countess Ada. He had some strife with Didier Bishop of Vtretcht, and Gerard Ʋander Are his Brother: but (upon certain Articles) all displeasures were qualified. By his first wife Alix, daughter to the Earl of Gueldres, he had Floris, that next succeeded him, Otho bishop of Vtretcht, William, Lieutenant of Holland, and two Daughters, the one was Abbess at Rhynsbourg, Edmund of Lancaster, son to the K. of England. and the other at Delfte. His second wife was named Mary, Daughter to Edmund of Lancaster, son to Henry the third, K. of England, by whom he had no issue. He governed 19 years, & dying, lieth buried at Rhynsbourg. 17 Floris the fourth, succeeded his Father Count William in his Earldoms. He took great delight in justs and Tournaments, and the Earl of Clermont proclaiming a public Triumph for all comers (at the Countess his wives request who greatly desired to see this Floris, of whom she had heard much fame and commendation) this honourable Earl of Holland, Zealand, etc. was there treacherously slain, only through the jealous suspicion of the old Earl of Clermont, who was there likewise presently slain himself, and the Countess (grieving for this great mishap) died soon after. The wonderful birth of 365. Children. This Count Floris had a Daughter named Mathilde, or Margaret, as some call her, who was married to Count Herman of Henneberg; She despising a poor Widow, that desired her alms upon urgent necessity, holding in either arm a sweet young child, both which, God hath sent her at one birth, gave her very reproachful words beside, as, that she could not be honest of her body, and (by her husband) have two children lawfully begotten. This History is avouched for a truth by divers good Authors. The poor Woman, grieving to be rejected in such extreme want and need, but much more, to hear her reputation so nearly touched, knowing her soul clear from all dishonest detection, made no further suit to the Lady, but (falling upon her knees) appealed to God for defence of her Innocency, and earnestly desired, that as she had conceived, & borne those two infants lawfully by her husband, even so, if ever that Lady should be subject to the custom of women, that it would please him, to send her as many children at one birth, as there were days in the years. Not long after, the Lady conceived with child by her husband, & (for her deliverance) went into Holland, to visit the earl her brother, taking up lodging in the Abbey of religious women at Losdunen, and grew so exceeding great, as the like had never before been seen. When her time came, on the Friday before Palm-sunday, in the year 1276. she was delivered of 365. children, the one half being sons, and the other daughters: but the odd child was an Hermaphrodite, and they were all well shaped & proportioned in their little members. These children were laid in two Basins, and were all baptised by Guidon, Suffragan to the Bish. of Vtrecht, who named all the sons john, and the Daughters Elizabeth, but what name he gave the Hermaphrodite, is not recorded. They were no sooner baptised, but they all died, and the Mother also. The two Basins are yet to be seen in the said Church of Losdunen, and a memory of them, both in Latin & Dutch. The Latin beginning thus. Margareta, Comitis Hennebergiae uxor, & Florentij Hollandiae & Zelandiae filia, etc. Underneath are these verses: En tibi monstrosum & memorabile factum, Quale nec à mundi conditione datum. This Count Floris, being so treacherously slain, as you have heard before, had his body brought back into Holland, by the Earl of Cleves, and other Noble Lords, who buried it in the Abbey of Rhynsbourg; he having honourably and virtuously governed his Countries 12. years. He left but one Son named William, six years old, who was in the tutelage of his Uncle Otho, bishop of Vtrecht, during his minority. 18 William, second of that name, succeeded his father Floris in all his dominions, being all the time of his under years, in the government of Otho Bishop of Vtrecht his Uncle, who was a very worthy and careful Guardian to him. The pope having deposed Frederick the second, & Conrade his son from the Empire: the prince's Electors (in despite of the Pope) made this Earl William King of the romans, and crowned him at Aix la Chapelle, Earl William king of the Romans he having then attained to the age of 20. years. A long and tedious trouble happened, between him, and Margaret Countess of Flanders, a very high minded and proud woman, for the Country of Walchren, wherein, after a great foil and slaug●●he Flemings, (taking part with her) & impr●ent of her two sons, Guy & john, she implored the aid of Charles Duke of Anjou, against king William, and sped thereby no better than she had done before, but was glad in the end to seek reconcilement. This K. William did build the Palace of the Earls of Holland, in the village of La Hage, or the Hague where it is at this day, & a goodly Cloister at Harlem. At his wars in West Frizeland, where he prevailed very successfully, he would needs, without any other assistance than himself, follow the rebels over the Ice, where his horse slipping in, himself almost drowned, & none near to help him, but enemies of the Frizons, that lay secretly in ambush: K. William cruelly slain they beat him down with clubs & staves, not knoing that it was the king, & so they slew him. But when afterward they took better notice of him, by his Target & Arms thereon emblazoned, in very hearty sorrow for their foul deed, they buried him secretly, in a poor house in the village of Hooktwonde, thinking so to wipe out all remembrance of him. But his body was after found, and buried in the Abbey of Middlebourg, in the Isle of walchren. 19 Floris the fifth, son to king William, who was slain so inhumanly, albeit he was but six months old, yet he succeeded his father, his Uncle Floris being his Governor and Tutor. At 17. years of age, he went with an army against the ever-revolting Frizons, and overcame them at a village called Schellinckhout, very severely revenging his father's death on them, & (by building four Castles i●●land) brought them wholly under his obed● Afterward, Count Floris made a voyage into England, 1290 where a marriage was contracted, between john, eldest Son to Earl Floris, and Elizabeth, Daughter to King Edward the first, john being (not long after) sent into England, to accomplish the said marriage, where he remained in the Court of England, till his Father's unfortunate death, which briefly was thus. A Knight lived in the Earl's Court, named Gerard Van Velson, The History of the death of Earl Floris who had been a whole years' space detained in prison, and his Brother beheaded, through certain false suggestions whispered to the Earl, which (afterward) appearing to be a mere injury, the Earl sought to repair this wrong, with very especial favours done to the Knight, great advancements, and would have bestowed also his Concubine in marriage on him. Which Gerard disdaining, and replying, that he would not wear his cast shoes: the Earl rashly answered, that he should take his leavings, in despite of his heart. To prevent marriage with the Earl's Minion, the Knight bestowed his affections else where, and wedded a Lady of great honour and beauty. Which when the Earl understood, he pursued his former rash folly, to the price of his own life. Sending Gerard on an employment of much credit and respect, and wherewith he was not a little pleased, not doubting any such wicked intention. The Earl came unto Gerardes' house, under colour of hospitaliiy, and there (winning her to private conference in her bed chamber) forcibly deflowered her, to perform his rash promise to her husband. At Gerard's return, and this foul wrong discovered, it was pursued with very bloody revenge, by a resolved conspiracy sworn against his life: which albeit he had some warning of (by a paper delivered him by a poor woman) yet his disaster being inevitable, a train was laid for him as he road a hawking, and xxi. wounds he received on his body, by the hand of the said Gerard. But he and the rest of the conspirators escaped not unpunished, Asevere revenge for the Earl's death. for they had their heads smitten off, and were then laid upon wheels: but Gerard was put (stared naked) into a Pipe stuck full of sharp nails, and was so rolled up and down through all the streets of Leyden. Then was he beheaded, and laid on a wheel, and all his Kindred to the ninth degree, put to death, and laid upon wheels. 20 After the wicked murder of Earl Floris the fifth, committed by the Fryzons, 1297 as hath been declared, john his only son (being then in England with King Edward his Father in law) was next to succeed him as his rightful heir. But before he could leave England, some partialities & factions happened in Holland for the government, which soon were qualified at Earl john's being there present, notwithstanding the subtle policy of Wolfart of Borssele, seizing the person of Earl john, and Lady Elizabeth his Wife, Wolfart of Borssele his secret intention. thinking to have the government of the said Earl, because as yet he was but young. Earl john prevailed against the Frizons, and the Bishop of Vtrecht, and having governed his countries about four years, 1300 he fell sick at Harlem, and there died. He was the first of all the Earls of Holland, The end of the race of the Dukes of Aquitain and succession of the Earls of Henault. that died without children: wherefore in him failed the line masculine of the Earls from the Dukes of Aquitain, which from Thierrie, or Theodor, the first Earl of Holland, had continued 437. years. He was buried in the Abbey of Rhynsbourg, his widow Lady Elizabeth being carried back into England, where she was afterward married to the Earl of Oxford: So that by the death of Earl john in this manner, those countries were devolved to the earls of Henault, issuing by the mother's side from the Earls of Holland. 1301. 21 john, second of that name, called john of Henault (claiming his right from Alix, sister to William king of the Romans) succeeded after john, as Earl of Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland, etc. He had a long and tedious trouble with john de Reuesse, who persuaded the Emperor, that john Earl of Holland dying without issue, his Earldoms ought (in right) to return to the Empire: according as Charles the Bald, Emperor of the Romans, had at first given them in see & homage to Thierrie of Aquitaine. This suggestion raised the Emperor Albert in Arms, against john of Henault, john de Reuesse drowned. but the Bishop of Cullen compounded the matter between them, and john de Reuesse was afteeward drowned, by which means, john of Henault was rid of a turbulent enemy. john of Henault, having governed Henault thirty years, and his Countries of Holland, Zealand, 1305 & Frizeland 5. years, died & was buried at Valenciennes 22 William the third, son and heir to Count john of Henault, succeeded his father's earldoms: The good Earl william. he was commonly called The good Earl william, for his Virtues, justice, good life, and honourable actions. In his time happened so great a dearth and famine tn Holland, 1316 that poor people died with hunger, A wonderful dearth. even in the streets as they went: seeking also for herbs and roots in the fields and woods, there they were likewise found dead, and in the common high ways: little children died sucking at their Mother's breasts, and some were enforced to feed on their dead Children. In this time of Famine, a poor waman in the Town of Leyden, being extremely overcharged with hunger, entreated her own sister, A strange example of an unmerciful Sister. (being a woman of better ability) to lend her some Bread, which she would thankfully repay again, when God should enable her. She very unkindly, & without any pity of her extremity, denied her oftentimes, notwithstanding the others often urge, that she was assured, she could not be without bread. Hereupon, the unmerciful Sister (lying both to God, and to her own poor sister) said: If I have any bread, I wish that it may instantly be turned into a stone: wherewith the heavy displeasure of God laid hold upon her words, & going afterward to her Cupboard (to relieve herself) she found all her loaves of bread converted into apparent stones, & died herself with extremity of hunger. It is credibly said, that one or two of those stones, are yet to be seen in S. Peter's Church at Leyden, as a memory of this just judgement of God. A worthy action of justice, done by this good Earl William. There is also recorded another memorable History, of upright justice done by this good Earl William, to a poor Countryman, against a Bailiff of South Holland, who had taken a goodly fair Cow from him, that was the relief of himself, his poor Wife and Children, as there are some Kine in that Country, which do give twenty pottles of Milk and more, in a day. The Bailiff, at the poor man's complaint to this good Earl William, who lay then sick in his Bed at Valenciennes (yet never debarred any suitors from audience, were he sick or well) was adjudged to give the poor man an hundred Crowns of good Gold, for the wrong he had done to him, which was accordingly performed. But for his injury to public justice, (being himself an Officer) and abusing the authority committed in trust to him, the Earl sent for an Executioner, and caused his head to be smitten off by his beds side. This good Count William, being a virtuous Prince, victorious in war, a Man learned, wise, well spoken, and judicious, a great friend to peace, gracious to all men, & beloved in all Prince's courts, having governed his Provinces 32. years, died the 9 of june 1337. and was buried with great pomp at Valenciennes. 1337 23 William the fourth, Son to the good Earl William, came to his Father's earldoms by lawful succession. Earl William a worthy soldier He was a man of high merit, and a most famous Soldier, whereof he made good proof; first against the Sarrazins and Moors, in the Kingdom of Granada; Next, 1338 with the Emperor Lewes, and many Noble Earls, aiding his brother in law Edward the 3. King of England, against the King of France; 1342 Th●●ly, in overrunning all Lithuania, Livonia, and warring against the Russian Infidels, lading home his men with victory and wealthy spoils; And lastly, in prevailing against the Frizons, Robert of Arckel, governor of Vtrecht. and Robert of Arckell Governor of Vtrecht. Yet it was his hard hap to be slain unknown (among the Frizons) before any could have power to help him: so that he left no lawful Child to succeed him, and therefore his Sister, 1346 (being Empress) remained his only Heir. 24 Margaret, Wise to Lewes of Bavaria, Margaret the empress Princess of Holland. (than Emperor) and eldest Sister to Earl William, slain (as you have heard) by the Frizons, by the emperors interposition of his authority, and her own Native right, went down by the Rhine into Holland, accompanied with a most princely and well beseeming train, and was acknowledged to be Lady and Princess of Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland. But before her return back to the Emperor again, she constituted both his and her eldest son (named William of Bavaria) to be her Regent there in those Countries, for a sum of Money yearly paid to her; but remaining unpaid, she might resume all her rights to herself again. The Emperor deceasing, the Empress Margaret came thither again, and had resignation (from her son William) of all the foresaid Countries, retiring himself into Henault, as being well contented there to live: The factions of Cabillaux and Hoecks. till by intestine discord, & dangerous practices of two intruded factions, called Cabillaux and Hoecks (wherein both Nobles and Gentlemen did too far enter) the Mother's government did grow unsufferable, and Duke William was recovered from Henault, to undergo the Sole-authority. Two very bloody battles were fought between the Empress and her Son; 1351. and in the first, Earl William escaped with great difficulty, and fled into Holland, for this battle was fought at La Vere in Zealand. But in the second, there was so much blood spilled, that (for three days after) the old River of Mensae (at full Sea) was (all over) red in that place. A great effufion of blood. The Empress (by help of a small Bark) escaped into England, and, upon an agreement afterward made between them; Duke William had the quiet possession of Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland assigned him, and the Empress Margaret had the County of Henault, where (five years after) she ended her days, and lieth buried at Valenciennes. 25 Duke William being peaceably possessed of his Seigneuries, according to the former composition, Mathilda, daughter to Henry duke of Lancaster being also Duke of Bavaria, Palatine of Rhine, and Earl of Henault by his Mother's death, took to Wife the Lady Mathilda, daughter to Henry Duke of Lancaster in England, by whom he had not any children. Much strife, war, and bloody bickering, happened between him and the bishop of Vtrecht, with shrewd disadvantages on either side; till, by the means of some Noblemen, they were reduced to amity. 1358 This Duke William (by what occasion it could never be known) fell distracted of his senses, and slew a Knight with a blow of his Fist: so that he was shut up (under good Guard) for nineteen years space, even till he died. Having governed his Provinces of Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland (before his madness) seven years, and Henault two. 26 Albert of Bavaria, Brother to Duke William, in the time of his distraction, was sent for from Bavaria, and made Governor of his Brother's Countries, in hope of his recovery, which by no means could he compassed. He vanquished the Frizons in many rebellions, The Barons of Eughien beheaded. took the Town of Delft, and beheaded the Baron of Eughien, upon sinister informations, which caused great trouble between him, and fire brethren of the said Baron: but, upon their reconcilement, Count Albert builded the Channorny of the Chapel, at the Court of the Hage. In his time, 1368. a Seawoman (by reason of great Tempests at Sea, and extraordinary high tides) was seen swimming in the Zuyderzee, between the Towns of Campen and Edam; which being brought to Edam, A Sea Woman seen in the Zuyderzee. and cleansed from the Sea-Mosse grown about her, by her long abiding there: she was like to another woman, endured to be appareled, & would feed on meats as others did, 1401 yet sought she all means to escape, and get into the water again, had she not very carefully been tended. She did learn to spin, and exercise other womanly qualities, being daily seen of infinite persons, who have made perfect testimonial of this race accident, and signified if for an undoubted truth, avouching, that she lived fifteen years, and lieth there buried in the Churchyard. 1404 In the year 1404. this famous Prince Albert died, after he had governed his Countries forty six years: nineteen as he was Tutor to his distracted Brother, and twenty seven as Prince, Heir and Lord of those Countries, being buried at the Hage in Holland. 27 William, sixth of that name, after the death of Duke Albert of Bavaria his Father, succeeded as his immediate Heir. His first Wife was Daughter to Charles the fifth, King of France, and she died young, without any Issue. He secondly married the Daughter of john, Son to Philip the bold Duke of Burgundy, by whom he had one only Daughtex, Philip the bold Duke of Burgundy. named jaqueline, or jacoba, as the Dutch use to call her. This Count William wasted Frizeland, spoiled Liege, and prevailed against the Gueldres, as also the Lords (Father and Son) of Arckell at Gorrichom, and reconciled the Duke of Burgundy to the French King. The Dolphin of France, Son to King Charles the sixth, married jaqueline, Count William's Daughter; but he being poisoned, by putting on a shirt of mail, 1417 died without Issue: As Earl William himself did not long after, being bitten in the Leg by a mad Dog, which hurt could never be cured. So that Lady jaqueline (his Daughter, and widow to the Dolphin of France) was his true Heir in all his Seigneuries: He governed thirteen years, and lieth buried at Valenciennes in Henault. 28 jaqueline, or jacoba▪ Daughter and Sole-heire to William of Bavaria, succeeded her Father in all his Earldoms and Seigneuries, being then Widow to the Dolphin of France, and yet but 19 years of age. In regard of her youth and widowhood, she endured much molestation in her government, chiefly in Holland: for the two factions took head again, and bandied their boldness on both sides, the Hoeckins, favouring the Countess' faction▪ and the Cabillantines her Enemies, by which means her rule was greatly disturbed. john of Bavaria Bishop of Liege. For john of Bavaria (forsaking his Bishopric of Liege) sought to make himself an Earl, and marry his Nice jaqueline (utterly against her will) and yet to dispossess her of her rightful inheritance, for which purpose he leagued himself with the Cabillantines, and other powerful Friends, who nevertheless were slain in their bold adventure at Gorrichome. And, to frustrate the bishops vain hope, the Pope dispensed her marriage, with john Duke of Brabant, albeit he was her near Kinsman, whereby their Patrimonial inheritances were the more strengthened, and he acknowledged as their Prince, in Henault, Holland, Zealand, Frizeland, etc. It were needless here to relate, john of Bavaria the Bishop reckoned the 29. Earl of Holland. the following molestations of john of Bavaria the bishop, to his Niece jaqueline, taking on himself the title of Earl, and therefore, (by some) ranked among the Earls of Holland, or the after marriages of Lady jaqueline; to the Duke of Gloucester, Uncle to Henry the sixth, King of England; the fourth and last time (in great privacy) to Frank of Borsselle, Lieutenant of Zealand, or her (no mean troubles) by the Duke of Burgundy, to whom she resigned up all her Countries: 1463 Let it suffice, that she lived in continual vexations 19 years, and dying at the Hage, was buried in the Chapel of the Court of Holland. 30 Philip Duke of Burgundy, being (both by Father and Mother) rightful yeire and successor to the forenamed Countess jaqueline; was thus entitled: The Titles of Philip Duke of Bourgogne. Philip Duke of Bourgogne, Brabant, and Lembourg; Earl of Flanders, Artois, Burgogne, Henault, Holland, Zealand, and Namur; marquess of the holy Empire; & Lord of Frizeland, Salins and Macklyn. He had three Wives; by the two first he had no Children, but by the last, named Isabel (daughter to john K. of Portugal) he had three sons; Anthony & loss, who died young, and Charles Martin, Earl of Charolois, The order of the golden Fleece instituted. and successor to his father. This Philip of Bourgogn instituted the order of Knighthood of the golden Fleece, & had much discontent with his Son Charles, whom (at length he married to the Lady Margaret, Sister to Edward the fourth, K. of England. The Rebels of Gaunt and Bruges dearly felt the valour of this Philip; he besieged Calais, surprised Luxemboug. subdued Liege; and overcame the Hamecons; He exceeded all his predecessors (Duke's of Bourgogne) in riches, Seigneuries, height of Pomp and State. He died the fifth of june 1467. 1467. having governed about forty years. In his time was the famous Art of Printing first invented, The Art of printing first invented. the men of Harlem in Holland do challenge the first honour thereof, but it was reduced to perfection at Mentz, by one john Faustus, who had been Servant to Laurence janson of Harlem, as they constantly affirm it. 31 Charles, The warlike Duke of Bourgogne surnamed the Warlique Duke of Bourgogne, succeeded in all his Father's Titles and Dignities. The Inhabitants of Gant resisting him, he brought them under obeisance, & defeated the Liegeois in battle, which enforced Liege to yield to him. He made peace with the French King, who doubted to be detained at Peronne by Duke Charles. Upon a fresh rebellion of the Liegeois. The Duke forced king Lewes to go with him to the siege of their town; which he ruined, and practised the like of the House of Brederode. He warred against the Frizons; and carried many Prince's in hope of his daughter's marriage. The French K. and the duke sought to deceive each other, and the Constable of S. Paul (waxing hateful to them both) they resolved his ruin, and (on a truce taken for 9 years, between the King and Duke) the Constable was beheaded at Paris. The Duke warred against the Swisses, and was defeated by them, both at Granson and Morat, wherewith the Swisses were enriched. The Duke besieged Nancie, and was there slain in battle, by the Treason of the Earl of Campobachio, The Earl of Campobachio. an Italian: where being engirt with a great troop of lancers, he received three wounds, 1477 one in the head, the second in the thigh, and the third in the fundament. He left one only Daughter and heir. 32 Mary, Daughter and Heir to Duke Charles, the warlike Duke of Bourgogne, succeeded her Father in all his Countries: being but 18. years old when he was slain before Nancy, wherefore she remained under the charge of the Duke of Cleves, and his Brother the Lord of Ravestein. The French King seized Piccardie and Arthois: she happening into the Ganthois power, endured much trouble, by putting her chiefest servants and counsellors to death: the Flemings were defeated, and the young Duke of Gueldres slain. The Duke of Gueldres slain. Afterward, a marriage was concluded between Maximilian Archduke of Austria, Son to the Emperor Frederick, and the Lady Marie of Bourgogne▪ albeit she would more gladly have matched with the house of France. 33 Maximilian, Archduke of Austria, and Son to the Emperor Frederick, marrying the Princess Mary of Bourgogne, was thereby wedded to much war and trouble. For first the Gueldres revolted from the house of Bourgogne; Next, happened the battle of Guinegate, wherein the Archduke was the Conqueror: Then, 1479 Turnay yielded to him, truce was taken between him and the French King, New tumults of the Cabillaux and Hoecks and the new tumults of the Cabillaux and Hoecks, were likewise by him pacified. Dordrecht was surprised by the young Lord of Egmont; also, many Towns in gelders yielded to the Archduke: and (not long after) followed the death of the Archdutchesse Mary; 1482 who had (the first year of her marriage, a Son, named Philip (Father to Charles the fifth) the second year a Daughter, called Margaret, betrothed in her infancy, to Charles the Dolphin of France, Son to King Lewes 11. and the third year, a Son named Frances, according to the name of France's Duke of Britain his Godfather. Engelbert, earl of Nassawe. 1491 Maximilian being chosen King of the romans, he made Engelbert, Earl of Nassau, Governor of the Netherlands in his absence: And afterward, upon the bold insolency of the Ganthois and B●ugois (keeping the King of romans prisoner) Albert Duke of Saxony, was made second Governor of the Netherlands, and General for the Emperor Frederick against the Flemings. But Frederick dying, 1494 his Son Maximilian succeeded him in the Empire, by which means, Philip of Austria, son to the said Maximilian, inherited his right in Holland, Zealand, Frizeland, etc. 34 Philip, second of that name, being but 16. years old, and succeeding his father Maximilian, Emperor in the Netherlands, had these Titles. The Titles of Philip. Archduke o● Austria. Phillippe Archduke of Austria, Duke of Bourgogne, Lothier, Brabant, Styria, Carinthia, Lembourg, Luxembourg, and gelders; Earl of Haspourg, Flaunders, Arthois, Bourgogne, Ferrette and Kiburch; Palatine of Henault, Holland, Zealand, Namur and Zutphen: marquess of the Holy Empire, and of Bourgan; 1497 landgrave of Elsaten, Lord of Windismarke, Portenau, Salynes', and Macklyn. Upon his full possession of the Netherlandes, peace was made between him, & Charles the 8. King of France, war happening betwixt the Archduke and the Duke of gelders, great inconveniences followed thereon: 1503 but Duke Albert being slain before Groningen, the Archduke inherited the realm of Spain by his wife, being made King of Castille, and George Duke of Saxony (being then made governor of the Netherlands, for the Archduke Philip) continued the wars in Frizeland. For, upon the death of Isabella Q. of Castille, jane, daughter to Isabel married to the Archduke Philip jane her daughter, being only heir, and married to the Archduke Philip; she hereby invested him in the Realms of Spain, Leon, Granado, etc. as absolute King. But he enjoyed that dignity not long, 1505 for in the year, 1506. the 27. of September, 1506 he died (suddenly) in the City of Bourgos, suspected to be poisoned. After the death of Philip King of Castille, the Emperor Maximilian took upon him the government of the Netherlandes, as Guardian unto Charles and Ferdinand his grandchildren, being the Sons of Philip and jane, King & Queen of Castille. 35 Charles of Austria, second of that name, succeeded rightfully in all his Father's Lands and Seigneuries, 1508 and by the Emperor's appointment his daughter the Lady Margaret (Dowager of Savoy, and Aunt to the Princes Charles and Ferdinand) was Regent of the low countries. 1515 afterward, Prince Charles took possession of the Netherlands, and being crowned K. of Spain and Arragon, soon after followed the death of the Emperor Maximilian, 1519 and in an assembly at Francfort, for choice of a new Emperor, Charles King of Spain had free election, by the name of Charles the fifth. Then was Lady Margaret, 1520 (Widow both of Castille and Savoy, and Aunt to the Emperor Charles) accepted as sole Governess of the Netherlandes, Lady Margaret sole Governess. in her nephews absence. Troubles happened in Spain, by reason of the King's departure thence, and not only war in Frizeland, but likewise between the French and Bourguignons, as also the war of Boors or peasants in Germany: and the Groningeois rejecting the Du. of gelders, 1526 did yield themselves to the Emperor: then, happened the 2. bloody edict from the Emp. against the netherlands protestants, & then was the imperial diet at Ausbourg, where the protestant princes presented the confession of their faith. After followed the devouring inundation in the Netherlands, & the death of the Lady dowager Margaret, whereby Mary of Austria, 2. daughter to K. Philip, and Q. jane of Castille, 1531. succeeded in the government of the Netherlands. Marry of Austria. War happened between the Emperor and the French King, but upon the coming of Queen Elinor of France to the Emperor her Brother, 1554. peace was concluded betwixt them. 36 While Mary of Austria governed the Netherlands, for the Emperor Charles her brother, great troubles happened to the Protestants, by opposition of the Pope and Emperor against them. 1549. The Emperor affected the Empire for Prince Philip his Son, which bred a quarrel betwixt the Emperor, and his brother Ferdinand King of Hungary, to whom the Princes of the Empire were more inclined, then to Philip; and then the Protestants denied their coming to the Counsel of Trent. 1555 Philip King of Spain married Mary Queen of England: And not long after, the Emperor resigned the Netherlands to his Son King Philip (whereby he was reckoned the 36. Earl of Holland, Zealand, etc.) and the Empire to his Brother Ferdinand, K. of the Romans and Hungary, departing out of the Netherlands, to end his days quietly in a Monastery, not far from Placentia. He reserved 100000 Crowns yearly to himself, employing 4000 for his diet and maintenance, appointing the rest to young maids marriages, 1556. and the relief of Widows and Orphans, he not living above two years after. When not only happened his death, but likewise the deaths of the queens Dowagers of France and Hungary, as also of Mary Queen of England, after whom succeeded her Sister Elizabeth, in which time, Elizabeth Q of England. Emanuel Philebert, Duke of Savoy, and Prince of Piedmont, was Governor and Lieutenant General of the Netherlands, for King Philip: till the King of Spain's marriage (being turned into tears, by the untimely death of the French king) caused Margaret of Austria, Bastard to the Emperor Charles the fifth, and Duchess of Parma, to succeed the Duke of Savoy in the Netherlandes regiment. 1559 King Philip returned then home into Spain, it being his last departure out of those Countries: The Spanish Inquition. whereon (not long after) ensued the subtle bringing of the Spanish Inquisition into the Netherlands, by the creation of new Bishops, 1565 and such was the power and privilege of the Inquisitors, as none were able to withstand them, in confiscation both of body and goods at their own pleasure. Now, albeit the Tyranny of the Duchess government in the Low Countries, was more than the people could well endure, 1568 yet (to put a sharper Snaffle in their mouths) King Philip removed his Bastard Sister Margaret, and sent Don Ferdinando Aluares, Duke of Alva, who quickly brought the Netherlands into a most pitiful estate: making himself sure of Gaunt, and Count Horn and Count Egmont (abusively) made Prisoners: he builded the Castle of antwerp, where he erected his own proud Statue, and proceeded to apprehend the prince of Orange by Commission, setting down Articles by the Spanish Inquisition (which were confirmed by the King) to ruinate the Netherlandes, upon which, soon followed the execution of the sons of Batembourg at Brussels, as also the Earls of Egmont and Horn. 1574 William of Nassau, Prince of Orange, Wil Prince of Orange The Commander of Castille. was made Governor of Holland, Zealand & Vtrecht for the States, and proved very fortunate in many attempts against the Duke of Alva, which made him labour his repeal home into Spain, with Don Frederick his son. Don Lewes de Requesens, the great commander of Castille, was sent to spoil the Duke's place in the Netherlands, for the king of Spain, to whom alva's former behaviour served for an example, in his proceeding, and notwithstanding his besieging of Middlebourg (near hand to famishment) yet was his fleet defeated before his face, 1575. & the Town yielded up by Colonel Mondragon, to the Prince of Orange. After many dangerous turmoils, on both sides, the States sent to require succour of Elizabeth Queen of England, and soon after died Don Lewes de Requesens at Brussels; Don john of Austria. in whose room succeeded Don john of Austria (Bastard son to the Emperor Charles the fifth) as Governor for King Philip in the Netherlands, all the Provinces whereof were united at the pacification of Gand, whereupon, the Castle was yielded unto the States, and all the Spaniards departed out of Antuerp castle, which was also delivered into the State's hands. Don john being received as Governor, he sought ocasions how to renew war against the Prince of Orange, and divers discontentmentes, 1577. as also treacherous practices, being noted in Don john, the States grew jealous of him, and he was proclaimed the Country's enemy. Then was the Archduke Mathias called to be Governor, The Archduke Mathias. and while the heart-burnings held between Don john and the States, the Duke of Anjou, and Duke Casimire also were required to succour them, but to little effect, for Arthois and Henault fell from the Netherlands general union, and then followed the death of Don john, 1578. of the plague, in the Camp near unto Mamure. Then Alexander Farnase, The Prince of Parma. Duke of Parma and Placentia, bastard Nephew to the king of Spain, succeeded Don john in the Netherlands government: Whereupon, a stricter Union (than before) was made betwixt the Provinces at Vtrecht. 1580. The Duke of Anjou was called to be Protector, The Duke of Anjou. and partly Lord of the Countries in the Union, which made the King of Spain proscribe the Prince of Oraunge, and set his life at sale, to which proscription the Prince (in every point) made his just answer. 1581. Then were valiant and worthy services performed by Sir john Norris, and Captain (afterwards) Sir Roger Williams. In the year following, the General Estates of the united Provinces, having declared Philip K. of Spain, second of that name, to be fallen from the signory of the said provinces, in regard of his extraordinary and too violent government, against their privileges and freedoms (solemnly sworn by himself.) In way of right and Arms, took upon them all the Government of the politic Estate, and of the Religion in those Provinces, The States for themselves. breaking the kings Seals, absolving the Subjects of their Oath to him, and causing them to take a new Oath, for preservation of their Country, and obedience to the said States. Upon a bargain made by the King of Spain, to kill the Prince of Orange, the said Prince was shot by one john javuregui, a banquerout-Merchants Servant, 1582 who was presently slain, but the Prince escaped that attempt with life. The prince of Orange shot. Afterward, he was traitorously murdered by one Balthasar Gerard a high Bourguignon, 1584. The Prince of Orange murdered. at Delft in Holland: whereon, Prince Maurice (being his Son) succeeded his Father in the government. Then followed the siege of antwerp, in which time, the States once more, re-commended their cause to the Q. of England, either to give her the full Sovereignty of the Netherlands, or else to succour and relieve them with her forces, upon good conditions offered. Her Majesty granted to send them assistance, but no sovereignty or protection of them, would she take upon her: whereupon, certain cautionary towns and Sconces were delivered up to her, for repayment of such sums of Money, as should be disbursed by her, 1585. and Articles of covenant set down between them. Also, Robert Lord Dudley, Baron of Denbigh, and Earl of Leicester, was appointed by the Queen of England, The Earl of Leicester. to be her Governor general, over the English powers in the Netherlands. In the time of the Earl of Leicester's government for the Queen, were sundry worthy services performed by the Earl of Essex, Sir john Norris, the Lord Willoughby, Sir Philip Sidney, Sir William Russell, etc. beside the subtle pretences of Sir William Stanley, Rowland York, Patton, and others, who held fair weather with the Earl of Leicester, and had the government of Zutphen Sconce, and the strong Town of Deventer (to the great dislike of the States) yet performed no such matter, as the Earls hope was persuaded of them. For, after the death of that matchless Noble Gentleman Sir Philip Sidney, he being shot before Zutphen, Sir Philip Sidney slain and thereof dying; 1587. the Earl of Leicester (being gone for England) both Deventer and Zutphen Sconce were delivered up to the Spaniards, by base ●oruption of Money. And (not long after) the Prince of Parma beleagering S●luice; Sluice. by composition it was also yielded up, after it had endured 17000. Cannon shot and more. Beside, upon some discontentment, between the Earl of Leicester and the States; the Queen called home the said Earl into England, The Lord willoughby and the Lord Willoughby remained there General of the English forces. The sundry worthy services, both by him, and the English performed, with the Spanish undoubted hopes of England's conquest, 158●. in the dreadful year of 1588. Prince Maurice his entrance into the Netherlands regiment, Prince Maurice. and the Duke of Parma's wars in France▪ all these I pass over, referring such as desire farther satisfaction therein, to the large History of the Netherlands. The Prince of Parma dying at Artas (after his retreat from Roven) the second of September 1592. 1592. Maurice of Nassan, borne Prince of Orange, marquess of La Vere, and of ●ing, etc. was made great Captain and Admiral General of the united Provinces of the Low-countries, Ernestus D. of Austria. by the Estates: And Ernestus, Archduke of Austria, was also made Lieutenant Governor, and Captain General for Philip King of Spain. Prince Maurice proving very successful in his warlike artemptes, a Renegade or Apostate Priest (in the habit of a Soldier) was corrupted (by the Archduke Ernestus) to murder the Prince Maurice at Breda; and upon his own confession thereof, 1594. he was executed at the Hage. Prince Maurice should be murdered twice. Afterward, upon Prince Maurice his valiant surprisal of Gronning, Ernestus had dealt in like manner with a Soldier, named Peter du Four (who had sometime served in the company of the Guard to Prince Maurice) ●o undertake the murdering of him at Lillo: the which treason being confessed by the man himself, he was executed in the Town of Berghen up-zoom. Here might much be said of the honourable services of Sir Frances Vere, Sir Frances Vere. and others, but our purposed brevity is the only imbarment; and the Netherlandes History (at large) may thereof discharge me. The Archduke Ernestus died the twenty one day of February, 1595. 1595. Mo●dragons forces defeated by Prince Maurice, and La Motte slain before Dourlaus; the Estates (under the King of Spain) gladly sought peace with the united Provinces▪ and sent Articles in writing to Prince Maurice, for consideration of their motion. This was not done but, upon good advise in the King of Spain, perceiving the Netherlandes, and Prince Maurice his great fortunes against him, adding every day, (more and more) to his utter abolition thence. Hereupon, Albertus the Cardinal, Brother to deceased Ernestus, & Archduke of Austria, Albertus' Arch duke of Austria. was sent (by the King) to govern there for him▪ many Easterlings and netherlands ships, which had been stayed in Spain to meet the Indian fleet, were suddenly released; and Philip of Nassau (who is now Prince of Orange and Earl of Buron, 〈…〉 that had long time been restrained of his liberty in Spain) for better countenancing the intended business, 1596 he likewise was sent along with the Cardinal Albertus. The Cardinal being made Governor▪ for the King de Spain, took Calais from the French King, as his first piece of service, but for loss thereof, he recovered La-fere from the Spaniards. Hulst besieged. Whereupon, the Cardinal besieged Hulst in Flanders, which yielded in the end: but it was a dear purchase to the Cardinal, for this siege, (continuing some two months) cost him the lives of above threescore valiant Captains, besides other Commanders, Colonels, and men of mark, and ●bou● five thousand well approved soldiers. Then did the king of Spain dispense with himself for payment of his debts, which made many Merchants in Spain, Italy, Antwerp, Amsterdam, and Middlebourg, to become Bankrupts. 1597 A league was made between the French King, the Queen of England, and the States, against the Spaniards, and then did Prince Maurice go to Tournhoult, Tournhoult where the Earl of Varax was slain. Amiens also was surprised by the Spaniards; but soon besieged and recovered by the French King, albeit the Cardinal offered succour, which proved in vain. Prince Maurice besieged and took the Towns of Alpen, Meurs▪ Rhinberg, Groll, Brefort, Enscheyde, Oldenzeel, Otmarsom, Goor, and Lingen, all which services he performed in three months. Then happened another treacherous plot, 1598. against the life of Prince Maurice, by persuasion of the Jesuits at Douai, The jesuits conspire the death of Prince Maurice. and undertaken by Peter Pan, a Cooper by Trade, but being then a Broker or Bankrupt Merchant; who having received the Sacrament, to perform the deed either with Knife, Poniard, or Pistol, the Provincial of the Jesuits made a long Sermon, to encourage him in the action, and assuring him of Paradise, if he performed it, used these words to him beside: Go in peace, for thou shalt go like an Angel, in the guard of God. But the man (being terrified in conscience) discovered the whole Treason, without any compulsion, and was therefore executed at Leyden in Holland. The King of Spain growing weak and sickly, gave his Daughter the Infanta, named Isabel Clara Eugenia, in marriage to the Archduke & Cardinal Albertus, with transaction of the Netherlands and Bourgogne: whereupon he left his Cardinal's habit, & went to fetch the Infanta. Soon after died the King of Spain, The death of K. Philip on the 13. day of September, Anno 1598. being seventy one years old, add four months. The Archduke and the Infanta being come into the Neatherlandes, 1599 had their installment at Brussels, Louvain, Antwerp, etc. The Emperor sent to the States, concerning a peace, but their resolution held to make war in Flanders. 1600 Then happened the siege and memorable battle of Nieuport, The battle of Nicuport where Prince Maurice took divers Forts from the Spaniards, and overthrew the archdukes Army, he being there in person: but gladly fled away, leaving his Arms, Horse of Combat, all his Household, Artillery, and baggage behind him, and lost 6000. men, beside 800. taken Prisoners, among whom was Don Francisco de Mendoza, Admiral of Arragon, marquess of Guadaleste, and Lieutenant General of the archdukes Army, who was led to Oostend; Don Baptista de Villa nova, led to Horn in Holland; Don Alonzo Ricquell, to Delft, Don Gonzalo Hernandes de Spinola, to Vtrecht; Don Pedro de Montenegro, to the Hague; Don Pedro de Valasco, to Berghen, with Don Francisco de Torres, & Don Antonio de Mendoza, & Don Pedro de Leusina, to Enchuisen: besides the archdukes three Pages, Count Carlo Rezi, Don Diego de Guzman, and Mortier; Don Pedro de Monte-maior, his chief taster; likewise his Physician, Barber, Harbinger, Rider, Cook, Porter, the Grooms of his Chamber; most of the Archers and Halberdiers of his Guard, and (in a manner) all his household; with three Priests or Monks; 40. Ancients, and 37. Pensioners, termed (by them) Ancient and Sergeants reform. He lost also six pieces of ordinance, 136. Ensigns of foot taken, and five Cornets of horse, comprehending the Mutineers Standard, and the recovered lost Colours. Moreover, on the archdukes side were slain, the Earl of Saume, the Earl of La Fere, the Seneschal of Montelimar, the Baron of Pimereull, Chassy Ortigny, Son to the Precedent Richadot; Don Gaspar de Sapena, Colonel, who died at Oostend, Don Diego de Torres, Don Gaspar de Loyazo, Don Gonzalo d'Espinola, Don joan de Pardo, Don Garcia de Toledo, Don Lopode Capeta, Don Alouzo Carcamo, Don Lovis Faccardo Sebastian Velasco, Sebastian Doteloa, Christionall Verdugues, Mattheo d'Otteuille, joannettin de casa nueva, the Paymaster Alines, and many other never known. Prince Maurice and the states loss. Prince Maurice and the States, at the first encounter in the morning, and lastly in the battle, lost about 2000 men▪ among whom were Bernard, Couteler, and Hamelton, Captains of Horse and some twenty Captains of foot, but no Man of Mark or special note. In this brave exploit at Neiuport, the virtue and valour of Sir Frances Vere General, and Sir Horatio Vere, his Brother Colonel, will for ever be remembered. The occurrences in the following years, 1601 as the besieging of Oastende; The enterprise on Flessigne; The practice to sack Antwerp again; Grave yielded up to Prince Maurice; 1602. Also his honourable offers to the Town of Sluice, 1604 and it being yielded to him upon composition, even in the view of the archdukes Army: They require a larger field of discourse, then by this brevity can be admitted. proceed we then to speak of the long continued siege at Oastend, which lasting three whole years, The long siege at Oastend. and eleven weeks, was at last compounded withal, and on the twenty two day of September 1604. yielded to the Archduke. What numbers were slain in this long continued siege of Oastende, can hardly be gathered, albeit, a note was found in a Commissaries Pocket (who had been slain the seventh of August 1604. before Oastend) wherein were divers good observations; especially concerning the archdukes Camp, and what number (of each degree) died and were slain therein, during this siege, until the yielding up thereof, (viz:) Masters of the Camp, seven; Colonelles, fifteen; Sergeant Majors, The archdukes loss at Oastend. twenty nine Captains, 565. Lieutenant's 11●6. Ensigns, 322. Sergeants 1911. Corporals, 116●. Lanspizadees, 600. Soldiers, 54663. Mariners, 611 Women and Children, 119. all amounting to 72124. persons. To continue the memory of this long siege, as also the winning of Sluice, Counters (of Silver and Copper) were made in the united Provinces, bearing (on the one side) the figure of Oostend, & on the ●ther, the Towns of Rhinberke, Grave, Sluice, Ardenbourg, with the Forts of Isendyke and Cadsant, with this inscription round about; Plus triennio obsessa, hosti rudera, Patriae quatuor ex me urbes dedi. Oostend being more than 3. years besieged, gave the Enemy an heap of stones, and to her native Country four Towns. Another Counter, concerning Sluice, had these words on the one side, Traxit, duxit, dedit. Anno 1604. And with the Arms of Zealand on the other side, were these words: Beatus populus cuius adiutor Deus. For the following years, from 1604 to 1608. 1605. I find no especial or memorable accydents; 1606 but an enterprise by prince Maurice, on the River of ●●held & Antwerp, 1607 with the taking of the Castle of Wouwe, 1608 near to Berghen Vpzoome; 1069 Spiholas taking of Linghen, with an attempt on Berghen, and Groll, taken by composition, 1610. etc. For a treaty of peace happening between England and Spain, the like also chanced to be talked on, concerning the Netherlands, and many meetings were made to bring it to effect. At length it was brought to pass by the labour and endeavour of a Friar (as was reported) who made many errands between Spain and the Netherlands, until it was accomplished. Since when, nothing hath happened of any consequence, but the taking in of the Town of Guliche in Germany, where the prince Maurice behaved himself very honourably. Of the Kingdom of Ireland. Avoiding all nice and secupulous curiosity, about the first name and Original of Ireland, I purpose to follow these best received authors, as Giraldus Cambrensis, Flatsbury, Henry of Marleborow, and others, that therein do give the best direction. The Original of the Irish. They say and affirm, that the Hispaniards the Original offspring of the Irish, because Hispaine, in those ancient days was called Iberia, after the name of Iberius, the Son of jubal, and in regard also, that the famous River Iberus was then their habitation, did entitle this land Iberia, as Leyland, and some other Chroniclers Write, or Ibernia, Leyland in Cyg. Ca●t. with addition of the letter (n) to express a kind of variation. From which Ibernia, it may easily be presumed, that Iberland, or juerland received first sound, and so Ireland, by contraction or corruption in common phrase. It is said like wise to be called Scotia, at the very same time, in reverend respect of Scotach, or Scota, Scotach or Scota the wife of Gathelus. wife to Gathelus, an ancient Noble Captain of those Iberians, she being Mother, others say Grandmother, to Hiberus and Hermon, the Sons of Metellus, reigning then in Hispaine. Five brethren men of no mean merit and valour (being sons to one Dela) all worthy Seamen, and skilful Pilots, rigging a fleet, arrived in Ireland, and perceiving it to be but slenderly peopled, concluded (by casting lots, for several shares) to divide the Country among themselves. The four elder brethren, who were named Gandius, Genandius, An. mund. 2●33 Camb●e●. Lib. 1. dict 3. rub. 5, 6. Sagandus or Gangandus, Rutheragus or Rutheranus, having cast the whole Island into four partitions, and finding their younger brother Slanius to stand quite exempted from any abiding, sucuaying more advisedly their several portions: (which were thus squared, Lagenia, Leinster, lying East: Connatia, Connaght, west: Vltonia, Ulster, North: & Momonia Mowster south, each made an abatement of his proportion, & amongst them laid out a fifth part, named Media, Meeth, which afterward, from being the lesser share (by his manly carriage) proved to be the largest, & he obtained the whole monarchy of Ireland, appointing Meeth to serve for the monarches diet or table. The first K. of Ireland. It appeareth then, that Ireland was thus divided into five several territories or kingdoms, and that the Spaniards, or Hispaniardes first peopled the same. There are also accounted 130. petty Kings of that Nation, from Hermon, that slew his Brother Hiberus (of whose name the Irish received theirs) to Laogirius, the Son of Nealus Magnus, in whose days Ireland was converted to the Christian faith, by that holy man S. Pat●ik. About which time came Roderick a Scythian Prince, Roderick K. of the Picts. with no great number of men, who were the Picts, & he their king, and there they sought to make their abiding: but the Irish persuaded them thence, and then they betook themselves to the North part of Britain, where both Roderick and the more number of his followers, were slain by Marius' King of Britain. In no long while after, one Turgesius, a notable Pirate of the Norweig●ans, came thither likewise, Turgesius the Tyrant. with a strong power, and made himself King or Conqueror of Ireland, using much tyranny, and deflowering all the other King's daughters: till by the policy of Omalaghlilen, King of Meth, whose daughter also the tyrant would needs ravish, a company of young youths were disguised like fair Nymphs, with short sharp Skeines hidden under their Garments, and the fair young Lady herself, Daughter to Omalaghlilen, was their chief conductor to the lascivious Tyrant's bed Chamber. Turgesius, his only companions at that instant, were a few dissolute young men, affected like himself, whom the King had made acquainted with this amorous purchase, promising, that (his lust being satisfied) where he liked to make election, the rest should remain at their free disposition. No sooner were these disguised young Gallants entered the Chamber, and the king preparing himself to embrace the King of Meths' Daughter, but, The just punishment of a lascivious Tyrant. drawing forth their Skeynes, they first cooled the Tyrant's heat in his own blood, and afterward his Minions were in like sort served. The fame of this valiant act being quickly flown through Ireland, and the Princes rising in Arms on so apt an advantage, they resolved to free themselves from such servility: as indeed they did, and made Omalaghlilen their chief King or commander, in honour of this their great deliverance. Concerning divers other invasions of Ireland afterward, by the Danes, Norwegians, Swedens', Saxon Grammat. Albert. Crantz. Normans, etc. reported by Saxon Grammaticus, Albert Crantzius, and others: they are matters no way incident to our present purpose, but referred to our general determination, more capable of such plenty of discourse. Therefore, passing over those former years of trouble and disturbance, sylvest Girald. Cambrensis. let us come to Sylvester Giraldus Cambrensis, his history of the conquest of Ireland, when Dermon Mac Morogh, K. of Leynster. fled out of Ireland, to crave succour of Henry the second, King of England, who was then in Aquitaine, busied with very serious affairs, wherein I will be so brief as I may. This Dermon Mac Morough, King of Leinster, O Dermon Mac Morogh. having been (from his youth and entrance into the Kingdom) tyrannous over his Nobility, and full of oppression to all the Gentry, became highly hated and despised, and so much the rather for ravishing the wife to Ororike prince of Meth, in the absence of her husband. Ororike not brooking such an indignity, procured Rotherick (K. of Connagh, and Monarch of all Ireland over the other Kings) to give him aid, with all the forces that either of them could make. Dermon understanding this main opposition, fled into Aquitaine, where he found Henry the second, King of England, and such was his distressful tale to him, with Oath of allegiance sworn unto him. to be his true vassal and subject: Dermon sweareth allegiance to K Henry. that king Henry made kind acceptance of him, and took him into his protection, granting him his Letters patents into England, to use the aid and means of his Subjects, for recovery of his right in Ireland. Being returned from King Henry into England, he came to Bristol, where his letters Patents were many times publicly read, and liberal wages and offers made, to such as in this extremity would give him assistance. Gilbert Earl of Chepstone. All proved in vain, till Richard, son to Gilbert, Earl of Chepstone (being promised Dermons' Daughter & heir in marriage, Robert Fitz Stephens, & Maurice Fitz-gerard. with inheritance and succession in his Kingdom) was bound to visit him with aid in Ireland, at the following Spring: Robert Fitz-Stephens, and Maurice Fitzgerald, had promise also of the Town of Wexford, being the chiefest Town in Leinster, and six canters of land to them and theirs for ever, to come likewise (with their best help) at the Spring ensuing. Upon hope of this assistance, Dermon ventured home among his enemies, Fitzstephens & his men pass into Ireland. but in very private manner for his own safety. At time appointed, Robert Fitz-Stephens accompanied with Maurice Fitzgerald and with thirty serviceable Gentlemen, all of his Kindred, beside three hundred bold Archers, the best chosen, and only men of Wales, sailed in three sundry barks, and landed in them Calends of May, at the ban in Ireland. Whereby, A prophecy of Merlin● an old Prophecy of Merlin's was said to be fulfilled, (viz.) A Knight by-parted, should enter first with force in Arms, and break the bounds of Ireland. Their landing there, proved so successful to Derman, that he kept his word with Fitzstephens & Fitzgerald, for the town of Wexford, & territories thereto appertaining with the canters of land: he sent also for Richard Strongbow, Earl of Pembroke, son to Earl Gilbert of Chepstone, Richard Strongbow Earl of Chepstone and Pembroke. who, upon Dermons' letters, and intelligence of Fitz-Stephens great fortunes (with his followers) there desiring earnestly to make one in so worthy an employment made suit to k. Henry for his passage thither. But whither he obtained leave or no, he being of very noble parentage, greater in spirit, than possessions, & aiming at the fairest fortunes: dreadless of the king's displeasure, with such power as he could provide, he landed at Waterford in September. Here it shall not differ much from our purpose, to report those Noble men's names, who before any other of the English assisted this worthy Earl Richard Strongbow for Dermon, in subduing Ireland to the Crown of England, according as they are recorded in the chancery of Ireland, & as the learned M. Camden hath also observed them. Robert Fitz-Stephens. Harvey de Mont-ma●ish. Maurice Prendergest. Robert Barr. Meiler Meilerine. Maurice Fitz-Gi●ald. Redmund, Nephew of Fitz-Stephens. William Ferrand. Miles de Cogan. Gualther de Ridensford. Gualther, & Alexander, sons of Maurice Fitz-Girald. William Notte. Robert Fitz-Bernard. Hugh de Lacie. William Fitz-Adelm. William Marcarell. Humphrey Bohun. Hugh de Gundevill. Philip de Hasting. Hugh title. David Walsh. Robert Poe●. Osbert de Hetloter. william de Bendenges. Adam de Geruez. Griffin Fitz-Stephens Nephew. Raulfe Fitz-Stephens. Walter de Barry. Philip Walsh. Adam de Hereford. john Curcy. Hugh Contilon. Redmund Cau●●more. Redmund Fitz-Hugh. Miles of S. David's. With divers other beside. Then also was it generally noised, that Celidons prophesy was fulfilled, Celidons prophesy. (viz) A little Firebrand shall go before a great fire, and as the sparks kindle the lesser wood, so shall the same set the g●et wood on fire. There was another prophecy also, Merlin's prophesy, of Merlin's, viz. A great forerunner of a greater follower, shall come, & he shall tread down the heads of Desmond & Leinster, & the ways (before opened and made ready) he shall in large. Dublin, Leinster, & divers other places were immediately won, & Earl Richard married to Eva, Dermons' daughter. By which marriage, he enjoyed but one daughter only, who enriched William Mare●chall with the Earldom of Pembroke's Title, fair Lands in Ireland, five Sons, all dying childless, and as many daughters, who honoured their husbands (viz. Hugh Bigod, Earl of No folk, Guarin Montchensey, Gilbert Earl of Gloucester, William Ferrars Earl of Derbie, and william Breose, with children, goodly honours, and rich possessions. Upon the news in England, of Earl Strongbow and his followers daily prevailing in Ireland, King Henry offended with Earl Strongbow King Henry grew offended with him, and made a Proclamation against him, that none of his Subjects should further assist Dermon or him. But, upon the Earls private passage into England, and conference with the King at Newham, near to Gloucester, all displeasure was forgotten, and the King (having then an Army in readiness) should pass forthwith into Ireland, where all should be delivered up into the kings possession. King Henry landed at Waterford, on Saint Luke's day, in the seventh year of his reign, the 41. of his age, and of our Lord, 1172. Dermon Mac Morogh being dead some short while before. The princes of Ireland swear fealty to King Henry. The King being Royally welcomed into Ireland, Dermon or Mac Carti, Prince of Cork, Donald O Bren, Prince of Limerick, Donold O Carel, Prince of Ossorie, and Macleighlin O Felin, Prince of the Decies or Ophalie, O Ro●ke, K. of Meth, & Oneale, King of Ulster▪ with Rotherick O Conor Dun, the Brown Monarch of Ireland, came all & submitted themselves to k. Henry, swearing fealty & to be tributaries to him. All matters being ordered in Ireland to the King's good liking, he departed thence to England, having made Earl Strong-bow Earl of Pembroke, the first Lord Governor of Ireland, joining Reimond le Grace in Commission with him▪ in the year, 1174. ¶ The names of the Governors, Lieutenants, Lord justices, and Deputies of Ireland, since the conquest thereof, by King Henry the second. The years of our Lord RIchard Strongbow, Earl of Pembroke, 1174 Governor, Reimond le Grace being joined (for his more ease) in commission with him. Reimond le Grace, Lieutenant by himself. 1177 William Fitz Adelme, Lieutenant, having john de Curcy, Robert Fitzstephans', and Miles Cogan joined in Commission with him. Hugh Lacie, Lieutenant. john Lacie, Constable of Chester. and Richard de Peche. Governors. 1182 Hugh Lacie, again Lieutenant. Hugh Lacie the younger, Lord justice. Henry Loandoris, Archbishop of Dublin, 1227 Lord justice. Maurice Fitzgirald, Lord justice. 1228. john Fitzgeffery, Knight, Lord justice. 1253 Alain de la Zouch, Lord justice. Stephen de Long Espe, Lord justice. 1258 William Deane, Lord justice. Sir Richard Rochel, or Capell, Lord justice. 1261. David Barry, Lord justice. 1267 Robert Vfford, Lord justice. Richard de Excester, Lord justice. 1268 james Lord Audley, Lord justice. 1269 Maurice Fitzmaurice, Lord justice. 1270 Walter, Lord Genuille, Lord justice. 1272 Robert Vfford, again lord justice. 1281 Fulborne, bishop of Waterford, Lord justice. john Stamford, Archbishop of Dublin, Lord justice. William Vescie, Lord justice. 1295 William Dodingsels, lord justice. Thomas Fitz-Maurice, Lord justice. 1293 john Wogan, lord justice. 1314 Theobald Verdo●, lord justice. 1315 Edmund Butler, lord justice. 1317. Roger, Lord Mortimer, Lord justice. Alexander Bignor, Archbishop of Dubline, Lord justice. 1319 Roger, lord Mortimer, the second time lord justice. 1320 Thomas Fitz-Iohn, Earl of Kildare, lord justice. 1321 john Birmingham, Earl of Louth, lord justice. 1323 john, Lord Darcy, Lord justice. 1327 Roger Outlaw, Prior of Kilmainan, lord justice. Anthony, lord Lucy, lord justice. 1332 john, lord Darcy, second time lord justice. john, lord Charleton, lord justice. 1338 Thomas, Bishop of Hereford, lord justice. 1339 john, Lord Darcy, ordained lord justice by Patent, during his life, by King Edward the third. Ralph Vfford, lord justire. 1346. Robert Darcy, lord justice. john Fitz-Maurice, lord justice. Walter, lord Birmingham, Lord justice, his Deputies were john Archer, Prior of Kilmainan, and Baron Carew, with Sir ThoRokesby. Maurice Fitz-Thomas, Earl of Desmond, had the Office of Lord justice, for term of his life, by the grant of King Edward the third. Thomas Rokesby, Knight, lord justice. 1355 Almericke de S. Amand. 1357 appointed Lord justices by turns. john Butler, Earl of Ormund. appointed Lord justices by turns. Maurice Fitz-Henry, Earl of Kildare. appointed Lord justices by turns. Lionel, Duke of Clarence, Lord justice. 1361 Gerald Fitz-Maurice, Earl of Desmond, 1367 lord justice. William, lord Windsor, 1369 the first Lieutenant in Ireland. Roger Ashton, lord justice. 1372 Roger Mortimer. 1381 justices and lieutenants especially recorded, in the days of King Richard the second. Philip Courtney. justices and lieutenants especially recorded, in the days of King Richard the second. james Earl of Ormund. justices and lieutenants especially recorded, in the days of King Richard the second. Robert Vere, Earl of Oxford, marquess of Dublin, created Duke of Ireland. Roger Mortimer, Earl of March, Lieutenant. 1394 Roger Mortimer, Earl of March and Ulster, lieutenant. Roger Grey, lord justice. john Stanley, Knight, lord lieutenant. Thomas of Lancaster, 1401. brother to king Henry the fourth, lord Lieutenant; whose Deputies at sundry times, were Alexander, Bishop of Meth, Stephen Scrope, knight, & the Prior of Kilmainan. 1403 james Butler, Earl of Ormond, Lord justice. Gerald, Earl of Kildare, Lord justice. 1407 james Butler, Earl of Ormond, Son to the foresaid james, Lord justice. 1413 john Stanley, again Lord Lieutenant. Thomas Cranley, Archbishop of Dublin, Lord justice. 1414 john, Lord Talbot of Shefield, Lieutenant. 1420. james Butler, Earl of Ormond, the second time Lieutenant. Edmund, Earl of March, james, Earl of Ormond, his Deputy. Lieutenants to K. Henry the sixth. john Sutton, Lord Dudley, Sir Thomas Strange, his Deputy. Lieutenants to K. Henry the sixth. Sir Thomas Stanley, Sir Christopher Plunket his Deputy. Lieutenants to K. Henry the sixth. Lion, Lord Welles, Deputy to the Earl of Ormond. Lieutenants to K. Henry the sixth. james, Earl of Ormond, by himself. Lieutenants to K. Henry the sixth. john, Earl of Shrewsbury, the Archbishop of Dublin (in his absence) Lord justice. Lieutenants to K. Henry the sixth. Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York, Father to King Edw: the fourth, had the Office of Lieutenant, by letters patents from king Henry the sixth, for ten years. His Deputies (at sundry times) were the Baron of Deluin; Richard Fits-Eustace, Knight; james Earl of Ormond; and Thomas Fitzmoris, Earl of Kildare. Thomas Fitzmoris, Earl of Kildare, Lord justice in the days of King Edward the fourth, until the third year of his reign. After whom, George Duke of Clarence, brother to the King, had the office of Lieutenant during his life, and made his Deputies (at sundry times) these Men following; Thomas, Earl of Desmond. Deputies to the duke of Clarence. john Tiptoft, Earl of Worcester. Deputies to the duke of Clarence. Thomas, Earl of Kildare. Deputies to the duke of Clarence. 1470 Henry, Lord Grace of Ruthine. Deputies to the duke of Clarence. Sir Rowland Eustace, Lord Deputy. Richard, Duke of York, younger son to King Edward the fourth, Lieutenant. Edward, Son to K. Richard the 3. Lieutenant, his Deputy was Gerald, Earl of Kildare. jasper, Duke of Bedford, & Earl of Pembroke, Lieutenant: his Deputy was Walter, Archbishop of Dublin. Edward Poynings, Knight, Lord Deputy. 1494 Henry, Duke of York, afterward King, 1501 by the name of Henry the eight, Lieutenant; his Deputy was Gerald, Earl of Kildare. Gerald Fitzgerald, Earl of Kildare, L. Deputy. Thomas Howard, Earl of Surry, afterward, 1520 Duke of Norfolk, Lieutenant. Piers Butler, Earl of Ossorie, Lord Deputy. gerald Fitzgeralde, Earl of Kildare, 1523 again Lord Deputy. The Baron of Dublin, Lord Deputy. Piers Butler, Earl of Ossorie, again L. Deputy. 1529 William Skeffington, Knight, Lord Deputy. Gerald Fitzgerald, Earl of Kildare, the third time Lord Deputy. William Skeffington, again Lord Deputy. 1534. Leonard, Lord Grace, Lord Deputy. 1540 Sir William Brereton, Knight, Lord justice. 1541 Sir Anthony Sentleger, Knight, Lord Deputy. ¶ The names of all the Lords, Deputies, and justices in Ireland, since the death of King Henry the eight, who died in january 1546. 1546. SIr Anthony Sentleger, knight, by Patent, 1546 dated 24. Martij. Anno primo Edw. 6. Sir Edward Bellingham, Lord Deputy, 1547 22. April's An. eodem. 1548. Sir Francis Brian. Lord justice. 1549 Sir William Brabeston, Lord justice. 1550 Sir Anthony Seutleger, the third time Lord deputy, 4. August. 1551 Sir james Croftes, Lord deputy, twenty nine Aprilis. 1553 Sir Anthony Sentleger, the fourth time Lord Deputy, September 1. Anno primo Reg. Marie. 1555 Thomas, Lord Fitzwalter, Lord deputy 27. Aprilis. 1556 Sir Henry Sidney. lords justices. Doctor Coren, or Corwen. lords justices. Sir Henry Sidney, Lord justice alone, 1556. eighteen january. Thomas Earl of Sussex, Lord Lieutenant, 1557 19 Martij. Sir William Fitz-Williams, Lord justice. 1558 Thomas, Earl of Sussex, Lord Deputy, 1559 6. Maij Anno primo R. Elizab. Sir Nicholas Arnold, Lord justice. 1564 Sir Henry Sidney, Lord deputy the third time. 1565 Doctor Weston, Lord Chancellor. Sir William Fitzwilliams. 1567. Sir Henry Sidney, 1568. Lord Deputy the fourth time. Sir William Fitzwilliams, Lord justice. 1570 Sir William Fitzwilliams, Lord Deputy, 1571 11. Decemb. Anno. 14. Elizab. Sir Henry Sidney, Lord Deputy the fifth time, 1572 August 3. Sir William Drury, Lord justice, 1579. 14. Septem. by patent, 18. May. Sir William Pelham, lord justice. 1580. The Lord Arthur Grace. 1580. Adam archbishop of Dublin. lords justices. 1582 Sir Henry Wallop. lords justices. Sir john Perot, Lord Deputy. 1584. Sir William Fitz-Williams, Lord Deputy. 1588. Sir William Russell, Lord Deputy. 1595 Thomas, Lord Burrough, lord Deputy. 1597 Robert, Earl of Essex, Lord Lieutenant. 1599 Charles' Blunt, Barou Montioy, Lord deputy. 1600 Sir George Carew, Lord Deputy. 1602. 1604. Sir Arthur Chichester, Lord Deputy, who yet to this day continueth in that honourable office. ¶ Of the Kingdom of Scotland. ACcording to the ancient Historiographers of Scotland in description of their Nations first offspring and original (after Brutus' first division of Britain to his Sons) they make relation of a Noble man among the Grecians, Gathelus a noble Grecian. that was named Gathelus, the son of Cecrops (in the judgement of some) who builded Athens: but, according to the conceit of others, the Son of Argus Nealus, fourth King of the Argines. This Gathelus, being banished by his Father, for some matter of disobedience, departed thence into Egypt, in the thirty three year of Pharaoh Orus, An. Mund. 2416, than King of that Country, and there carried himself with such valiant and extraordinary success, against the Country's Enemies, joseph. Lib. 2 Cap. 7. (in the company of Moses, General under the King himself) that Pharaoh bestowed his fair Daughter (named Scota) on him in marriage, having also then given him and his follower's, the City Thebes (Aegyptiaca) reported to be taken from the Israelites. Upon just occasion, Gathelus (after his Fathers in laws decease) leaving Egypt, being provided of Ships and other apt necessaries, took his Wife, Children, and a great multitude both of Greeks and Ethiopians, and setting forth of Nilus, determined to seek his fortune in other Countries. Gathelus his departure out of Egypt. This was in the year of the world's creation, 2453. and after his abiding in Egypt, above 39 years: what accidents befell him in this voyage, is peerless to report, his first arrival was on the Coasts of Numidia in Africa, now named Barbary: but being not able to settle there, he came into a part of Spain, long after termed Lusitania. It is said that the place of his landing there, was called Port-Gathele, after the name of Gathelus, He landed in Portugal. which afterward became (corruptly) to be called Portgale, or Portugal, the certainty whereof I refer to better judgements. The people there inhabiting, gave both him and his, at the first, a bold repulse, but in the end he prevailed victoriously, and after further friendly conference with the Spaniards, he began to build a City named Brachara, on the banks of the River Mundus, The City Brachara builded. and so at the first did he name the City itself. Gathelus by the Spaniards further persuasions & promise of assistance to their uttermost, whatsoever disasters should betide him and his: removed to the Northside of Spain, on the Cantabrian Sea coasts, now called Galitia, where he builded likewise another City, named Brigantia, afterward called Novium, and now Compostella. Here did Gathelus bear the Title of king, Campostella builded. and gave laws to his people, commanding that they should all be called Scottish-men, to honour the name of his dear beloved wife Scota, as he had always so termed them, in the time of his travails. In time, they grew to be so great a Nation, The Scots foileth the spaniards. that the Spaniards warring with them for their own safety, sustained the worst: & though victory remained to the Scots, yet such good Orders were agreed on, that both Scots and Spaniards should observe their own laws, without invasion offered on either side. Then did Gathelus live in peace with his neighbours, sitting daily on his Marble stone in Brigantia, administering Laws and justice to his people: Gathelus his Marble stone. which stone was fashioned like a seat or chair, having such a fate thereto belonging (as is said) that wheresoever that stone should be found, there should the Scottishmen reign and hold dominion. Hereof it ensued, that there first in Spain, afterward in Ireland, and next in Scotland, the Kings ruling over the Scottishmen, received the Crown sitting upon that stone, until the time of Robert the first, King of Scotland. On the stone was this inscription engraven. The inscription on the stone of Gathelus. Ni fallat fatum, Scoti quocunque locatum▪ Inuenient lapidem, regnare tenentur ibidem. Englished thus: Except old Saws do fail, and Wizards wits be blind: The Scots in place must reign, Gathelus his people do greatly a-abound. where they this Stone shall find. This quiet life of Gathelus, did so daily increase the abundance of his people, that the bounds of his dominion was not able to contain them, and he being religious in covenant with the Spaniards, avoiding all means of breach of the peace: having intelligence of an Island lying North over against Spain, and wherein was but few inhabitants: made ready his shipping, levied an Army of his subjects, and under conduct of his two sons, named Hiberus and Himecus, or Hermion (which he had by his Queen Scota) conveyed them over into that Island, Gathelus his two sons come into Ireland. which afterwards was named Hibernia, after the name of Hiberus. The History recordeth, that the Scottishmen offered no violence to the inhabitants, but fought all means to win them by gentleness, which in the end was easily compassed, and all things appointed in decent order: which made Hiber leave his Brother to govern there in Hilberland or Ireland, The death of Gathelus and valour of his son Hiberus. and return back to Spain. There he found his Father Gathelus to be dead, and he (with the people's joyful consent) was admitted to succeed him as his son: but in regard of his admirable courage, & not satisfied with those bounds that pleased his father; he made conquest of other Cities & Towns near about him, so that they were enforced to sue unto him for peace, and agreed to such conditions, Scots and Spaniards one nation. that a league concluded amity, and marriage contracts between both Scots and Spaniards, causing them to become as one people, continuing their succession of Kings (after Hibers' death) in his posterity, amongst which were Metellus, Hermoneus, Ptolomeus, Hiberius, and Simon Brechus. Passing over the contentions in Ireland, under the rule of the forenamed Himecus, the three sons of Metellus (viz) Hermoneus, Ptolomeus and Hiberius, being sent thither in defence of the injuried Scots; let us speak of this Simon Brechus, Simon Brechus in Ireland, first K. over the Scots. lineally descended of the Scottish blood, who was the first King that reigned over the Scots in Ireland, he brought with him thither the fatal Marble stone, and was thereon crowned, in sign of his full possession of that kingdom, & in the year from the world's creation, 3270. after the flood, 1616.55. from the building of Rome, after Brutus' entrance into Britain, 870. and before our saviours incarnation, 697. He governed his subjects with great justice forty years, after whom succeeded Fandufus, from whom issued Ethion, Fandufus & his issue. that begat Glaucus, whose son (named Nottasilus) was the father of Rothsay, all which reigned successively over the Scots in Ireland. Rothsay, to avoid the superabounding increase of the Scottish Nation in Ireland, Rothsay transporteth his Scots into the western Isles. transported them (by divers numbers) into the Isles anciently called Ebonides, afterward Hebrides, but now (by the Scots) the Western Isles, lying on the West half of Scotland, and named the Isle he first possessed them of, the isle of Rothsay, after his own name: this was 133. years after Simon Brechus was crowned King. Nor may we forget, that they also named those Islands (and an especial part thereof) by the name of Argathelia, in memory of their first guide & Prince Gathelus, Argathelia in remembrance of Gathelus. and as yet to this day it is called Arguile, wherein also, as all over the main and firm land, called then Albion, and they Albion-Scots, they planted themselves, albeit it was a waist and very desert dwelling. Here could I enter into a necessary declaration, concerning the coming of the picts, into those parts of Albion, what people they were, The picts come into Albion. their combustions with the Britain's and Scots, and rule of their Kings, till their absolute destruction, according to an ancient prophesy: That the Scots should in the end destroy all the Pictish progeny: But because I have briefly spoken of them, and having referred their further relation to our general History, we will now go on with our matter of the Albion Scots. In the troubles of Ireland, Ferguhardus in Ireland. among the Scots there inhabiting, one Ferguhardus, a very worthy and noble Prince, reigned there, who sent an army to assist the British and Albion Scots, upon their request of aid, under the conduct of his son Fergusius, who was a young gallant Prince, yet an expert Warrior, and took with him the Marble stone, because he went to a dangerous war, and hoped withal, that the issue of his pains should be the attaining of a kingdom: As indeed, upon an assembly and parliament held at Arguile, and his high merit to exceed all others whatsoever, he was elected and sacred in that supreme office, Fergusius the first king of Scotland in the year after the world's creation, 3640. before our blessed saviours incarnation, 327. after the building of Rome 420. and after Brutus' entrance into Britain, 790. This Fergusius, after he had reigned royally the space of 25. years, sailing into Ireland, to quiet a discontentment amongst the Nobility, was driven upon a Rock, where he perished by drowning, and that Rock hath ever since, even to this day, been called Rock-Ferguse, otherwise Knock-Ferguse. After the much lamented death of Fergusius, because his sons were over young, to undergo the weighty charge of government, Feritharis the second k. of Scotland. his Brother Feritharis was crowned King, being enthroned in his Kingly Ornaments, with all solemnity: his two edged sword, his sceptre Royal, and his Crown of Gold, made in form of a Rampire, for preservation of his Country's liberty: which manner of investing continued (without any alteration) till the days of Achaius King of Scotland, who confirming a perpetual league with Charlemaigne, Emperor and K. of France, to last for ever between Scots and French, added to the Crown four Flower de Lices, with four Crosslets, divided in sunder with equal spaces, rising somewhat higher than the Flower de Lices, that thereby, the observing of Christian Religion, and sincere faith (maintained by the Scottish Nation) might appear the more apparent to all that beheld it. After Feritharis (who reigned worthy 15. years) not Ferlegus, How the first kings of s●ottes succeeded each other. the eldest son of Fergusius succeeded, but Mainus the younger son, being then aged 24. years: and after him his son Do●uadille, the following succession we will thus briefly relate. Doruadil reigned 28. years. Nothatus, Brother to Doruadil, reigned two years. Reuther, son to Doruadill, 26. years. Reutha, the uncles son to Reuther, seventeen years, and then entering into a private life, he resigned the Crown to Thereus. Thereus, the son of Reuther, who reigned 12. years. Conanus, Lord of Galloway, who after the decease of Thereus in Britain, yielded the government to josina, Brother to Thereus, and reigned 24. years. Finnanus, son to josina, thirty years. Durstus, son to Finnanus, nine years. Ewin, uncles son to Durstus, nineteen. years. Gillus, base son to Ewin, who being expulsed, Ewin, second of that name, was crowned K. and reigning nineteen. years, resigned his state to Ederus. Ederus, the son of Dothan, 38. years. Ewin the third, son to Ederus, 7. years. Metellanus, son to Carrion, the Brother of Ederus, in the 12. year of whose reign, The birth of our Saviour jesus Christ. our Saviour jesus Christ was borne of the blessed Virgin Mary in Bethlem, which was 324 years, after the establishing of the Scottish kingdom by Fergusius. This Metellanus died in the 28. year of his reign. Caratake, son to Cadallan, 54 and Nephew to Metellanus, reigned xxi. years. Corbreid, youngest brother to Caratake, 34. years. 58 71 Dardan, surnamed the Great, for his huge stature four years. 75 Corbreid Galled, eldest son of King Corbreid, 35. years. This was a very worthy and famous King, and the Country where he last fought with the romans, in memory of his own name, was called Galdia, which (as some think) is that now named Galloway. 131 Lingthake, son to Corbreid Galled, two years. 133 Mogall, nephew to Corbreid Galled, six and thirty years. 162 Conarus, son to Mogall, 14. years. 176 Ethodius, Nephew to King Mogall. In this Kingsraigne, Lucius, King of the Britain's, with a great part of his people, received the Christian faith, being according to the Scottish Chronicles, in the year after our saviours birth, 187. This Ethodius reigned 33. years. 207 Satrahell, or Serrahell, Brother to Ethodius, reigned four years. 211 Donald, Brother to Satrahell, 21. years. In this king's time, the Scots received with him the Christian faith, 330. years after the erection of the Scottish Kingdom. And this Donald was the first that caused Gold and Silver to be coined in his Realm, stamping a Cross on the one side▪ and his face on the other. 216 Euthodius the second, being Son to the former King Euthodius, reigned 16. years. 242 Athirco, son to Ethodius, 12. years. 252 Natholocus, a Noble man of Argile, xi. years. Findocke, son to Athirco, ten years. Donald, Brother to Findock, being named Donald of the Isles, twelve years. 273 Crathlint, Son to King Findock, 287 twenty four years. Fincomarke, the uncles son to Crathlint, 322 47. years. Romacus, Nephew to King Crathlint, 358 four years. Angusianus, Nephew to King Crathlint, 360 two years. Fethelmachus, Cousin to Angusianus, three years. 363 Eugenius, the Son of King Fincomarke, 369 three years. Ferguse, Son to Erthus, who was Son to Ethodius, Brother to Eugenius, 424. and borne in Denmark, 16. years. Eugenius, the Son of Ferguse, 440 in whose time the Wall, called Adrians' Wall, was undermined and overthrown; Also the Britons were made tributary to the Scots and picts: The Britain's tributary to the Scots and Picts. which was about five hundred years, after that julius Caesar had brought them in subjection to the romans; after our saviours birth 446. and the seventh of Eugenius his reign. Then was the Isle of Albion sore infected with the Pelagians Heresy, and Paladius (termed by some the Apostle of Scotland) was sent by Pope Celestine to the Scots and Picts. This Eugenius reigned 30. years, and advanced the State of his Country to more wealth and felicity, than any of his Predecessors had done before him. 470 Dongard, brother to Eugenius, reigned 5. years. 481 Constantine, Brother also to Eugenius, 17. years. 501 Dongall, or Congall, Nephew to Constantine, and son to his Brother Dongard, 20. years. 521 Conranus, Brother to Congall, in whose time the great K. Arthur was borne, and S. German preached among the Soldiers in the Camp, and bore the King's Standard in the field, wben with the cry of Alleluia three tunes together, the Saxons were miraculously discomfited. This Conranus died in the 20. year of his reign, the 16. of Arthur's over the Britons, and fifth of the Emperor justinian, An. Christi. 531. 531 Eugenius, his Nephew, and son to his brother Congall, in whose time was the bloody battle between the Britain's, Scots, and Picts, wherein above 20000. men were slain, with Mordred, K. Arthur, The death of King Arthur, Mordred, etc. & Gawan or Gavan, brother to Mordred, and most part of the British Nobility. This Eugenius reigned 38. years. 578 Conuall, Brother to Eugenius, in whose time S. Colme, or Colombe, came from Ireland into Scotland. This Conuall reigned ten years, and then Kinnatill his Brother, being enthroned at Argile by free election, lived but twenty days after his Coronation. 588 Aldan, Son to King Conran, was crowned by the holy Father Saint Colme, and reigned thirty seven years. In this aidan's time, the Saxons having driven the Britons into Wales, and insulting over their lands and Countries; divided the kingdom into seven parts or divisions, England made seven kingdoms. ordaining seven several Kings to rule over them. In this King aidan's rule, died Saint Colme, at Dune in Ireland, whereon his tomb these verses were found engraved. Hi tres in Duno, tumulo tumulantur in uno, Brigida, Patricius at que Columba pius. Saint Colme, Saint Patrick, and Brigetta pure, These three in Dune lies in one Sepulture. Kenethus Keir, Son of Conuall, or Conwall, 606 raigued four months. Eugenius, fourth of that name, 620. Son to King Aidan, and (by some) called Brudus, according to S. Colmes prophecy of him, was crowned King of Scotland. He reigned 15. years. Ferquhard, Son to Eugenius, 13. years. 632 Donald, or Donwald, 645 the third son of Eugenius, 15. years. Ferquhard the second, Nephew to Donwald, 664 18. years. Maldwin, Son of king Donwald, 684 in whose time was a grievous Pestilence through most part of the World, A general Pestilence. consuming a greater number of Men before it ceased, then were left alive, for it continued the space of three years together. He reigned twenty years. Eugenius the fifth, Nephew to Maldwin, 688 four years. Eugenius the sixth, the Son of Ferquhard, 697 ten years. Strange visions in Albion. In this kings reign were many wonderful visions seen in Albion. In the River of Humber (to the apparent view of a multitude of men) a number of Ships appeared under sail, as ready furnished for the war. In the Church at Camelon, a noise was heard like the clattering of Armour. Milk was turned into blood in divers places of Pict-land, and Cheese converted into a bloody Mass or Cake. Corn, as it was gathered in Harvest time, was all bloody, and it reigned blood in the further parts of Scotland, as the Scottish Chronicles do make mention. 6●9 Ambirkeleth, Nephew, or Son (as some say) to Eugenius the fifth, reigned not fully two years. 716 Eugenius the seventh, Brother to Ambirkeleth, who caused the Histories of his Ancestors lives to be written in Books and volumes, The Histories of the Kings lives written. for example to posterity, appointing those Monuments to be carefully kept in the abbey of jona, now called Colmekill; he reigned 17. years, and died much lamented. 734 Mordacke, Nephew to Eugenius. In whose time (according to venerable Bede) four several people lived in peace and quietness within the bounds of Albion, though differing in manners, language, laws, and ordinances: Saxons, whom he called Englishmen, britains, Scots, and Picts. In which time also, Bede concluded his history, with the ending of King Mordacks life. 762 Ethfine, Son to Eugenius the seventh, who had four Governors under him in his Realm: Donald, Treasurer of Argile, Collane of Athol, and Mordake of Galloway his Lieutenants, & Conrath the Thane of Murreyland. He reigned 30. years. Eugenius, the eight Son of King Mordacke, 767 three years. Ferguse the third, Son of King Ethfine, 769 three years. Soluathius, Son of Eugenius the eight, 788 twenty years. Achaius, Son of King Ethfine, 819 in whose time was a perpetual league confirmed between him and the Emperor Charlemaigne of France. And then had Hungus, the Pictish King, the vision of Saint Andrew and his Cross, as is reported, whereby S. Andrew, became Patron both of the Scots and Picts. This Achaius reigned 32 years. Conuall, the Brother of King Ethfine, 824 five years. Dongall, Son of King Soluathius, 830. five years. Alpine, the Son of King Achaius, 833 four years. Kenneth, the Son of Alpine. 839 This is that famous and renowned King, in whose time the Pictish Nation were utterly destroyed, The utter subversion of the Picts. the City of Camelon cast down, the Castle of Maidens forsaken by the Picts, and none, or very few of them left living in Albion. Which happened after their first beginning to reign there, 1173. years; 1166. from the entrance of Fergusius; eight hundred thirty nine after our saviours birth, and from the worlds Creation, 4806. Translation of the Marble stone. In memory of this his famous victory, King Kenneth brought the Marble Stone out of Argile (where till then it had been kept) into Gourie, and placed it at Scone, near to the place where he prevailed against the Picts. This royal K. died in the year 856. having reigned 20. years in great renown and glory. 860. Donald, Brother to King Kenneth, died in the sixth year of his reign, which was much mollested by the Danes, under Cadane King of Denmark, pretending a Title to the Picts lands. 874 Constantine, the Son of King Kenneth, a very worthy and famous king, who redressed all disorders in his Land, appointing Priests to apply their vocation, and not to meddle with any secular business, going to war, or keeping any Horses, A virtuous King. Hawks, or Hounds. The youth of his land (to avoid wantonness and idleness) were appointed but one meal a day; and drunkenness, either in man or Woman, was punished with death. He reigned 13. years. 876. Ethus, brother of Constantine, who was a man of such swiftness of ●oot, that he could match and make way in running, with Hearts and Hounds, whereupon he was surnamed Lightfoot. He governed scarce two years. 893. Gregory, the son of Dongall, that reigned before Alpine; in whose time lived john Scot the famous Clerk. This Gregory reigned 18. years. Donald the fifth, 903 Son of Constantine the second, in whose time Gormond and his Danes were baptised, and Gormonds' name was changed to Athelstane. He reigned almost 11. years. 943. Constantine the third, Son of Ethus the swift, 40. years. He gave over his kingly dignity, and entered into Religion, as Hector Boetius affirmeth. Malcolm, the Son of Donald, 15. years. 959 judulph, Son of Constantine the third, 968 and prince of Cumberland, he reigned about 9 years' Duffe, the Son of King Malcolm, 972 four years. Culene, Prince of Cumberland, 976 and Son of King judulph, reigned not fully five years. Kenneth, Son to King Malcolm the first, 1000 25. years. Constantine, the Son of King Culene, 1002 not three years. Grime, Nephew to King Duffe, 1010. not fully nine years. Malcolm the Son of Kenneth, 1034 and Prince of Cumberland, 25. years. Duncane, Nephew to Malcolm, 6. years. 1046. In his time was Banquho Thaine of Lochquaber; of whom the house of the Stuarts is descended, even to his Majesty now reigning. And then was England. divided, between Canutus King of Denmark, and Edmund Ironside, after a valiant Combat fought between them. Macbeth, son to Sinell, Thaine of Glammis, 1057 reigned 17. years. 1092 Malcolm Cammore, Son of King Duncane, he changed the name of * Thaines were as Barons. Thaines into Earls, being t●en the first that ever were among the Scots, according to their own Histories. At this time did William the Bastard, duke of Normandy, make his Conquest of England. This King Malcolm reigned 36. years. And after some difference for the Crown between Donald Bane, Brother to King Malcolm, and Duncane a Bastard Son to King Malcolm (which usurpation continued for the space of three years) Edgar the rightful Prince attained to his due claim. 1101 Edgar, Son to King Malcolm, was the first that ever was anointed King in Scotland: now was the general passage to the Holy land, under Godfrey of Bullen, and many other Christian Princes. This King Edgar reigned nine years. 1109 Alexander, Brother to Edgar, being surnamed Alexander the fierce, for his stern valiancy in pursuing thieves and Robbers. David, Brother to King Alexander, being in England, married Maude, Daughter to Waltheof, Earl of Huntingdon and Northumberland, & (in right of his wife) was made Earl of Huntingdon and Northumberland, with inheritance of the lands to them belonging. In this King Alexander's time (who reigned 17. years complete) the order of the Knights of Rhodes, The beginning of the Knights of Rhodes. being formerly Knights of Saint john of Jerusalem, took beginning, and the order of the white Monks. Then lived also the Holy Man Richard de sancte Victore, being a Scot borne, but living (the more part of his time at Paris in France) where he died, and lieth buried in the Abbey of S. Victore, he being a Brother of the same house. David, Brother to Alexander, 1153 succeeded as lawful heir, and ruled 29. years, and two months. It is recorded of this King, that he excelled in Noble Virtues, and sober conversation of life, being very pitiful to the poor, and somewhat over-bountifull to the Church. The virtuous life and reign of K. David. For when King james the first, came to his Tomb at Dunfirmling, he said, That he was a sore Saint for the Crown, leaving the Church over-rich, and the Crown too poor. He purged his Court so clean of all vicious behaviour, and disordered customs, that it appeared to be a school of virtue. No riotous banqueting, surfeiting cheer, or lascivious word could be herd there, or any wanton signs, whereby to kindle lust or idle concupiscence. All the words, works, and whole demeanour of his servants, tended ever to some good conclusion, free from moving strife, or a thought of sedition: the Kings own life and example, serving for their guide and direction. He builded 15 Abbeys (viz) Holy-Rood house, Kelso, jedburgh, Melrosse, Newbottell, Holmecultrane, Dundranane, Cambuskenneth, Kinlois, Dunfirmling, Holme in Cumberland. Also two Nunneries, one at Carleill, and the other at north Berwick; with two Abbeys beside Newcastle, one of S. Benedictes order, and the other of white Monks. He erected likewise four Bishoprics in his Realm Rosse, Brechin, Dunkeld, & Dublane: endowing them with rich rents, fair lands, and very commodious possessions. 1165 Malcolm, surname Malcolm the Maid, because his conversation & delight (both in mind and body) was so chaste from his very infancy, that he lived single all his days, and without marriage. He was Son to Prince Henry, that was son and heir to King David, and reigned not fully twelve years. 1214 William, Brother to King Malcolm, and for his singular justice surnamed the Lyon. In this King's time, Richard King of England, surnamed Cueur de Lion, went his voyage to the Holy-Lande: King William reigned nine and forty years. 1249 Alexander the second, Son to King William the Lion, who caused his Father's death to be mourned for thorough his whole kingdom: he reigned 35. years. 1290 Alexander the third, son to the former King Alexander, in whose time was a general Counsel at Lions in France. He reigned 42. years, and by reason of his dying without any issue, the controversy between john Ballioll, and Robert Bruise then happened: which was heard and censured by Edward the first, The several claims of john Balliol, and Robert Bruse. king of England, albeit they maintained both their claims, upon their Titles severally, Balliol descending of Margaret, eldest Daughter to David, Earl of Huntingdon, Brother unto William the Lion; and Bruise coming of Isabella, second daughter of the said Earl David, and the next heir male to William the Lion, for want of succession in the right line. By which Title (how ever Balliol is said to be crowned King) Robert Bruse enjoyed the royal dignity, in the year, 1305. He had issue, David, that left no posterity, and Margery, married to Walter, Great Steward of Scotland, (descended lineally from the Princes of Wales, by nest, Daughter to Griffith●ap Lhewlyn, Mother to Walter, the son of Fleance, made Great Steward of Scotland by Malcolm the fourth.) Of whom came Robert the second, first of the surname of Stuart, that bare dominion in Scotland. Robert Stuart, being called Robert the second, 1250 was crowned King with Royal solemnity at Scone, in the 47. year of his age, The first coming of the Stuarts to the Crown, on the Annunciation day of our Lady in Lent, 1370. he reigned ten years. It is recorded of this K. Robert the 2. that h●s Captains & commanders were always fortunate in war, never returning but with spoils and victories. He was a Prince of such constancy in promise, that he seldom spoke the word which he not performed. Such an observer of justice was he also, that he would not remove from any place, but Proclamation was first made, that if any of his men or officers did take any thing unpaid for: the party to whom the debt was due, should come in, and immediately satisfied, he willingly heard the complaints of the poor, and was as diligent in seeing their wrongs redressed. 1390 john Stuart, Earl of Carrike, and son to King Robert before named, was crowned king: but because john was judged to be an unfortunate name for Kings, they changed it, and called him Robert, The King's name changed. after his Father's name, and so he was King Robert the third. Then was the first creation of Dukes in Scotland, for the king made his eldest Son David, Duke of Rothsay, and his Brother Robert, Duke of Albany; yet neither of these sons succeeded their father, but another son, who was named james. This King Robert reigned 16. years. 1424 james, Son to King Robert, succeeded his Father in the kingdom of Scotland: his Queen was delivered of two Sons at a birth, named Alexander and james; Alexander died in his infancy, but james lived, and succeeded his Father. This King james the first, reigned thirteen years. Of whom it is written, that he was a very severe and upright justicer, yet so mild and sweet of Nature, that not any of their Princes did more reverently embrace peace at home among his subjects or more willingly conclude it abroad with strangers, than he. His Wisdom appeared so manifestly, in many very great and especial affairs, that Kings of other Nations did lovingly join in league and friendship with him. He had been so well educated in all Sciences and Gentlemanly activity, by the careful diligence of the best Schoolmasters, that it could not be easily judged, in which he was most perfect: For he was an excellent physician, a rare Poet, a most eloquent Orator, & so exactly (both in mind and memory he comprehended the depth of Divinity and Law) that for all these (in his time) he gave not place to any one. Lastly, he was not only a beauty to his Country, in providing his people's quiet at home, but fought also for their defence against their enemies abroad. The invention of guns in this king's time. The invention of Guns happened in his time, and he caused divers pieces of Artillery to be made in Flanders, one of which being a great and goodly Piece, he called the Lion, whereon these verses he caused to be engranen. Illustri jacobo Scotorum Principi digno, Regs magnifico, dum fulmin● castra a reduce, Factus sum subito, nuncuper ergo Leo. james the second, son to King james the first, 1436. being but six years old, succeeded his Father in the Crown, and was the 103. King of Scotland from Fergusius the first. The Art of Printing found out. In this King's time was the famous Art of Printing invented, in the City of Mentz in Germany. This King reigned 24. years, & among his Subjects in the Camp, he carried himself so gently towards all men, that they seemed not to fear him as their King, but reverenced and loved him like a father. He would ride up and down amongst them, and eat and drink with them, even as if he had been fellowlike with the meanest. james the third, 1461 Son to King james the second, being but seven years of age, succeeded his father in the kingdom, and reigned 29. years. 1488. james the fourth, son to King james the third, was crowned King of Scotland, the 24. day of june, 1488. he being then aged xvi. years. This King james the fourth, married the Princess Margaret, King james married the eldest daughter to Henry 7. King of England. eldest Daughter unto Henry the seventh, King of England, and reigned five and twenty years, deserving to be ranked and numbered amongst the best princes that ever there governed, for his politic rule, and administration of justice. 1513 james the fifth, being a Child, aged one year, five months, and ten days, and son to king james the fourth, was Crowned King of Scotland, the one and twentieth day of September, 1513. his Mother the Queen being appointed Regent of the Realm. This King reigned 32. years, being an obseruice of justice, a defender of the Law, and a sound shield for the poor and innocent, in which regard (of his Nobility) he was called King of the Commoners. He would set at liberty the poor oppressed with the tyranny of the rich, and repress the rich from spoiling the poor. All which he did with a kind of severity, but yet in such sort, as therein appeared a wonderful gentleness in his natural disposition: because he seldom did put any of them to death, but did either by inprisonment, or mulct, punish the offence. For it was his usual saying, That he would never take life from any, but only to keep the Law sound, for example to others, and to keep down their boldness, that dwelled about the borders. His death was great lamented of his subjects, to whom he was a perfect Patron, and a loving Father. Marry, Daughter and heir to King james the fifth, began her reign over Scotland, 1542 the 18. of December, 1542. She was but seven days old when the King her Father died, and left her his kingdom, her mother then lying in childbed, in the Castle of Lithquo, of which place the Lord Levingston being then Captain, had the charge both of mother and daughter committed to him, with the mother's good liking, & free consent. This Q. Marry married Frances the Dolphin of France, who after his father's death was king of France: but King Frances dying, Mary Qu. of Scotland, Marry Dowager of France returneth back into Scotland. and Dowager of France, returned home again into Scotland, where her Mother had been Regent all the time of her absence, I mean until the x. of june, 1560. on which day the Queen Mother of Scotland died. Afterward, Marry Q. of Scots married Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley, Earl of Rosse, Duke of Albany, & son to the Earl of Lennox, who was proclaimed king at the Market Cross in Edinburgh, the 28. of july, 1564. and on the tenth of February, 1566. he was made Knight of the Order of S. Michael, in the Chapel of Holirood house, with great reverence and solemnity. In the month of june next following, the 19 day, and between the hours of x. and xi. before noon, Queen Mary was delivered of a goodly young Prince, who afterward was crowned King of Scotland, by the name of james the sixth. 1567. james the sixth, Son to King Henry and Q. Marry, being about a year old, began his reign over Scotland, and was crowned King thereof, the 19 of July, 1567. He succeeded also in his rightful inheritance of the Crown of England, (after the decease of Queen Elizabeth, of famous memory) the 24. day of March, 1602. gloriously uniting those kingdoms in one, which formerly (by Brute) had been long time divided. ¶ Of the Island of Albion, before Brutus' arrival there, and terming it Britain, after his own name; Also, what Kings reigned there before he came thither. ¶ To the Worshipful, Master William Dios, Esquire, Remembrauncer of the Honourable City of London. WHether this Land were peopled before the flood or no, it is no part of my purpose to argue here thereon, Geog. Com. lib. Beros. of't Lib. 1. albeit Dominicus Marius Niger, and Berosus do affirm, that well as this Island was inhabited with people, long before the days of Noah, as any other Country or part of the world beside. But after the flood, Annius de Viter. in Comment. sup. 4. Lib. Beros. de aut. Lib. 1 according to Annius de Viterbo, Berosus and others, when Noah divided the earth among his three Sons, that part which is now known by the name of Asia, fell to the lot of his eldest Son Sem; Africa to his second Son Cham; and Europe (withal the Isles thereto appertaining) to his third Son japhet, among which, this Island (now called Britain, with other Isles thereto belonging) was certainly numbered. japhet, Noah's third Son (by some called japetus; by others, Atlas Maurus, because he died in Mauritania) in the judgement of Bodinus, johannes Bodin ad fact. hist. cogn. avouching the consent and authority of the Hebrew, Greek, and Latin Writers, was the first that peopled the Countries of Europe, dividing it also (by the grandfathers example) among his Sons, Franciscus Tarapha. of whom Tubal (according to Tarapha) had the rule of Spain, Gomer the Italians, and Samothes was the founder of Celtica, which contained in it (as Bale testifieth) a great part of Europe, but especially those Countries now called Gallia and Britannia, which peopling of this Island (by japhets' Children) is affirmed to be 200 years after the flood. Samothes, being the sixth Son of japhet, Samothes, first King of Celtica. Wolfang. Lazius demigr. gen. and called (by Moses) Mesech, by others, Dis, had for his portion (as Wolfangus Lazius avoucheth) the Country between the River of Rhine, & the Pyrenean Mountains, where he founded the kingdom of Celtica, terming his people Celtae: which name was as indifferent to them of Gallia, as to the Inhabitants of the Isle of Britain. This King Samothes, is reported to be a Man excelling all other (in that age) in learning and knowledge, & that (of him) them arose a sect of Philosophers, Lib. de Magic. success. Lib. 22. both in Britain & Gallia, which were called Samothei, & as Aristotle and Setion do say, were surpassing, both in the Law of God & man, and therefore greatly addicted to religion: especially them of Britain, which not only made the whole nation to take name of them, but, as Bale and Doctor Caius affirm, the Island itself was named Samothea, De ant. Cant. ce●t. Lib. 1. Script. Brit. ce●t. 1. Magus second King. which was the first peculiar name it had, before the arrival of Albion. Magus, the Son of Samothes, was second King of Celtica after his Father. This Magus was likewise so famous for his learning, that the Persians Magis, or Divines, are said to come of him. Sarron third King. Sarron, succeeded his Father Magus, in the Country of Gallia, and the Isle Samothea, of whom Diodorus Siculus reporteth, that a sect of Philosophers descended among the Celtes, who were called Sarronides. Druis 4. K. Druis, or (after Seneca) Dryus, reigned after his Father Sarron, indifferently over the Celtes and Samotheans. Of him came the philosophers, called Druids, De bello Gal gic●. Lib. 9 & Lib. 6. whom Caesar avoucheth, to have the charge of common and private sacrifices, the discussing of points of Religion, the education of youth, the determining of matters in variance, and full power to interdict so many from the Sacrifices to their Gods, and society of men, as disobeyed their award. If any doubt arose in the Countries, about matters of Discipline; they always resorted to these Druids, who, Anti. Lib. 5 (as Humphtey Llhoyd witnesseth) made their chiefest abode in the Isle now called Anglesey, and there (at all times) received their resolution. Bardus, the Son of Druis, Bardus fifth King. was the fifth King over the Celtes and Samotheans: a man much renowned for invention of Music and Ditties, and he made an order of Philosophical Poets, or Heralds, call them Bardi, after his own Name. Of these Bardi, Nonnius; Strabo, Diodorus, Stephanus. Bale, and Sir john Price do thus record. That they used to Register the Noble exploits of ancient Captains, and to draw the pedigrees and Genealogies of such as were living. They did so excel, in singing sweet Songs and Ditties to their haps, that, if two Armies had been ready to join battle, and any one of these Bards (by fortune) entered among them; they had not the power to strike, until he left singing, and went from the Armies. When Bardus was deceased, the Celts began to affect liberty, The Celtes subjecteth by Albion the Giant. and (addicting themselves to pleasure and idleness) would live no longer under the strict orders of their ancient Kings: which brought them the sooner under subjection to the Giant Albion, who straited Celtica and the Celtes, within the bounds of Gallia, terming this Island (formerly called Samothea) Albion, according to his own name, and subdued the people; albeit the Title of Samotheans (according to the judgement of divers Writers) had continued from Samothes to Albion, the space of 310. years. This Albion was the fourth Son of Neptune, whom Moses calleth Nepthuim, and who did put his said Son in possession of this Island, by conquering the Samotheans, Bergion ruled in Ireland. as he did the like to his other Son, named Bergion, in Ireland and the Orkenies, which were brought under his obeisance. Concerning the History of Hercules Lybicus, (whom Moses nameth Laabin) his Conquests in Spain, his passage into Italy against Lestrigo, and lastly his kill Albion and his Brother Bergion; it being nothing incident to my present purpose, I leave it. Also the Story of Danaus' Daughters, being fifty in number, that they should arrive in this Island (after the slaughter of their Husbands, the fifty Sons of King Aegyptus) and that one of those Ladies should be named Albina, of whom this Land should be called Albion: I pass it over likewise, and will now proceed to the known History of Brute. Yet not daring to enter into so rich a Mine of hidden treasure, till being guided by the Light of Britain (the learned labour of a worthy Gentleman and Antiquary, Master Henry Light of Lytescarie, Esquire, and which (with his own hand) he presented to our late Sovereign Queen and matchless Mistress, on the day when she came in royal manner to Paul's Church) I be guided therein for my better direction, using his own words. The Light of Britain. BRitannia Maior (the Country of the bright Britona, Britania of Britona, and Britomartis called Britomartis, the precedent of Britain) that is to say, the chaste Diana of Calydonia sylua: Astrorum decus; Syluarum dea; casta et innupta; custos, et cultrix nemorum; metuenda Virago; terror syluestribus apris. This Britannia maior, was first found by Brute of Albania; the Conqueror of the Greeks; the mighty deliverer of the Trojans, and first founder of the Noble Britain's. Who by the Oracle of the bright Britona, Diana Britonas' Oracle. Albania. Calydonia. Aetolia. called Diana of Calydonia sylua (Astrorum decus) brought the remains of the Albanian Troyans of Asia, from Albania Calydonia sylua, & Aetolia in Greece; to Albania Calydonia sylua, and Aetolia in Briraine. Before whose most happy and fortunate arrival, there was neither Town, City, Country, River, Region, or place of name in Britannia: for Britannia (at Brutus' arrival) was no Britannia, but a rude and solitary Desert or wilderness, without name, Ferarum altrix, Britannia a Wilderness. Ferarum altrix. a very nursery or place of store for wild Beasts. The Countries and Regions of Britain, were then all overgrown with Woods, replenished with all kindness of savage and cruel beasts; as Lions, Bears, Wolves, Foxes, wild Boars, and all other game belonging to the Chase. Beside divers other kind of wild Beasts and cattle; especially a certain kind of white monstruous wild Bulls and Kine, Wild Bulls and Kine. with long shagd curled hair and manes, which kind of cattle were as fierce and cruel, as Lions, and could never be tamed by man's art; as you may find it registered and recorded in our ancient Chronicles, and noted in the very common Dictionaries, upon these words Caledonia, and Caledonia sylua Britanniae, always mistaken, and corruptly Written Caledonia, for Calydonia: because the reason why our Country was first called Caledonia sylua, was no better known to the ancient romans in julius Caesar's time, than it is (at this day) known to divers of our Antiquaries and Chronicles of Britain. For one deriveth Caledonia sylua, from Calden, and another fetcheth Calydonia sylua, from Kaled: But the ones fair Daughter Kaled, is too young to be the Mother of Calydon, or Calydonia sylua Britanniae; And the others Calden, or Hazellsticke, is as weak to be the Mother of Calydon. For Calydon, Calydon was the son of Aetolus. Mars the father of Etolus. Parthaon & Britona. of whom Calydonia sylua, by Aetolia in Greece took name, was the Son of Aetolus, who was the Son of Mars, the God or Patron of battle. Mars was the father of Aetolus, of Parthaon, & of the bright Britona called Britomaris, the precedent of Britain. Aetolus, the Son of Mars, and Brother to bright Britona, was Father of Calydon, of whom Calydonia sylua, by Aetolia in Greece, (Mother of our Calydonia sylua, the general name of all Britain) took name: but especially of Calydonia sylua secunda, which is Scotland, called Britannia secunda. In which part of Britain, at this day, is the most ancient Town of Parthaon, now called Perth; Parthaon, now Perth in Aetolia. Aetolia, now Athol. and Saint john's Town, the principal Town of Aetolia, now called Athol, a Region or Country of Britannia, Albania, or Calydonia sylua secunda, where the great Calydon Wood, Calydon wood. which beginneth at Striueling (called the Dolorous Mount) runneth forth through Mentieth and Stratherne, to Aetolia (that fruitful Region of Grampius Mount) which reacheth to Lochquhaber, Calydonium Cathnesse. and to Calydonium Promontorium, which is Cathnesse or Orcha, the angle, point, cape, foreland or lands end of Scotland. This Calydonia sylua Brytannia, was the daughter of Calidonia sylua, Calydon. by Aetolia in Greece who took his original from Calydon the Son of Aetolus. Aetolia, Aetolia. now called Athol in Britain, is the Daughter of Aetolia, a City of Albania, and Calydonia sylua in Greece, so called of Aetolus the Son of Mars. Parthaon, Parthaon. now called Perth, or Saint john's Town, the principal Town of Aetolia in Scotland, took his glorious name of Parthaon, the Brother to bright Britona, called Britomaris, the precedent Britain: Of whom, all Britannia (containing all the Countries and Regions of England, Scotland, Wales, and Cornwall, called by Alexander Necham, in his book De divina sapientia, Bruti tellus) took the most glorious name of Britain. Britannia of Britona. For Brute of Albania, the Founder of Britain, came to this Isle by the Oracle of Britona, called Diana of Calydonia sylua: therefore he called this Isle of Britannia, of the bright Britana, etc. The same Brute also, who was borne in Albania, Albania of Albania. banished to Albania, and the first founder of Britain called Albania; called all our Country of Britain, Albion, seu Albania: not of the White Rocks and Cliffs, as some men suppose, but of Albania in Asia, and Albania Epiri in Greece, the Country of Helenus and Andromache, Queen of Albania Epiri, from whence, Brute of Albania brought the Albanian Troyans, the founders of Britain. Chronicles and written Records of Brute. To approve what formerly hath been said, without any need of repetition, we have a multitude of most glorious Records and Chronicles, Written and Printed, confirmed by the Testimony of julius Caesar, by Pope Eleutherius; by a Parliament holden at Norham upon Twede; and another at Lincoln, in the time of King Edward the first, who, by his Letters sent from Lyncolne ●o Pope Boniface, doth approve Brutes▪ history to be no F●ble: as some Critics of our time have done, who will not believe our ancient written Records, although confirmed by Emperors, Kings, Popes, and parliaments, neither the Testimony of Strangers. Wherefore, by the Oracle of Diana, called Britomartis, the Precedent of Britain▪ and by the Oracle of Diana Lucifera, that is to say, Venus, called Bosphorus, the bright Queen of Phrygia, and Caria, Mother of Aeneas, and the Graces, of whom came Brute of Albania, founder of Britain, who brought in Carius, a Noble Prince of Lydia and Caria, with the people of Caria, and Swans of carry in Britain: By the Oracles aforesaid, the Swans of carry in Britain, are now stirred up to maintain the verity of the British History. The Gods of the Gentiles, whose Temples our forefathers (of the Trojan race) erected in divers Countries and regions of Britain: especially at Troia-nova, Diana's Temple at Troia nova now called London in Britain, where the Troynovants did sometimes Sacrifice Bulls, Bullocks, Diana Tauropolia, Theonte● Dea. and Stags, to Diana Tauropolia, whom the Gentiles called the Queen of Heaven: which was the same Diana called Bellona, whom the brigants honoured at York, Brigantium Civitas. And what were these brigants, I pray ye? Diana Bellona of York. Herodian saith, that the Briges, Phryges', and brigants were all one. Whereupon I conclude, that the brigants, that is to say, our Northern Britain's, were Phrygian Troyans. Briges. Phryges'. brigants. The brigants of Britain, are the people of Yorkshire, Richmondshire, Lancashire, Dutham, westmerland and Cumberland, hard to the picts Wall, where the Abij and Picti Agathyrsi dwell, about Abus Aestuarium, now called Humber. Abus Aestuarium. And what were those Abij, but Albanian Troyans, that came also from Abus, a River of Albania Epiri? And the ancient Britons, called Picti Agathyrsi, what were they? Even Scythian Troyans of Albania, Abij Alba●i Agathyrsi who sprang of Scythes and Agathyrsus, the Sons of Hercules, that sometime reigned in Troy: for the famous City of Troy in Phrygia, the head of all Asia, was in Scythia. Trojans, called Taurini, & Tauroscythi. The noble Trojans were called Taurini, and Tauroscythi, of a famous mountain of Asia, called Tau●us Mount, which runneth through all Asia; a great part of the Mountain Taurus endeth in Caria which is a country of Asia belonging to Troy. Taurus the mansion of Venus. Venus, called Bosphorus, the mother of Aeneas and the Graces (of whom came Brute of Albania, the founder of Britain) was Queen of Phrygia and Caria. The famous River of Maeander is in Caria, which river hath Golden sands and singing Swans, that sometime served Venus, Queen of Phrygia and Caria: wherefore the Swans of Caria, and Signets of Troy in Britain, must always sing of Troy & Trojans. Rivers of Britain, are Records of Brute. The daughters of heaven and earth, Isis, Themis, Rhea, Thetis, Abus, Arius, Alanus, Axe, Tameres, and all our famous Rivers of Britain, with the Deucalion Sea, and Islands of Britain, especially Arcadia, Aemonia, & Arachne are glorious records of Brute and the Trojans, the founders of Britain. divers our most ancient Cities and Towns of Britain, as Oxford upon Isis and Themis, Troia-nova upon Isis, Themis, Towns and Cities, Records of Brute. and Rhea Albanorum; York, Brigantium civitas; Antandros, turned to S. Andros; Parthaon, Perthe, turned to Saint john's Town, Albanum civitas, turned to S. Albans, Chester, and Doriscestria, with the ancient Towns of Derby and Leicester; and Tyanton upon Tamares River of Britain, with divers other Towns and Cities of Britain, are Records of Brute and the Trojans, Founders of Britain. The divers Nations and people of Britain, divers Nations and people of Britain, Records of Brute. as the Troynovants, brigants, Scotobrigantes, the people of Albania, Calydonia, and Aetolia; the Iberi, the Albani, and Georgij, the people of Derbie and Leycester, the people of Chester, that came from Cestria Epiri, with the Doors, loves, and Cares, and the Tamarites of Tyanton, commonly called Tanton: All these are Records of the Noble people of Greece and Asia, the remains of the Trojans that came into to Britain with Brute. To these, add a Catalogue or Register, Princes, noblemans, and Gentlemen Records of Brute. of the ancient Princes, noblemans, and Gentlemen of Britain, whereof there are some remaining to this very day, begin we then thus. Brute, Corineus, Locrine, Camber, Albanacte, Madan, Mempricius, Ebranke, and his twenty Sons, Brute Greenshield, Assaracus, and Cecilius, etc. Belinus and Brennus, Cambra, or Cambria, Antenor's Wife, Cambra, Belinus' Daughter, Conidagus King of Albania, slew Morgan at Glammorgan. Conidagus builded the Temple of Minerva at Bangor in Wales, & the temple of Mars at Parthaon, now S. john's town of Aetolia in Scotland. Arviragus, in whose days, a joseph of Aramithia, preached in Britain. Leile, Androgeus, Brother to Cassibelanus; this Androgeus let julius Caesar into Britain. Pyrrhus, Alexander Arcadius, Alexander Audax, Achaius, Etolus, Helena, Coil, Constantine; Graye, Persie, Dercie, carry, Busir, or Bousir, Cicell, Cydne, Dennis, Bridgis, Andros, Carowe, Caros, Tracie, Rhese ap Rhesus; Oenone, or Owen, King of Calydon, Brent the son of Hercules. thin, Euance, Bryce, Hil, Drake, Calais, Nele, Gryne, Dorill, hody, Crane, etc. These and infinite more beside, which Brute brought with him from the Countries of Isis and Themis, and from Albania, Calydonia Sylva, and Etolia in Greece, to Albania, Calydonia Sylva, and Etolia in Britain, are undoubted records of him and the Trojans, Founders of Britain. Thus much out of Master Lytes Light of Britain, which worthy Gentleman being deceased, his Son Master Thomas Light, of Lytescarie, Esquire, a true immitator and heir to his Father's Virtues, hath (not long since) presented the Majesty of King james, with an excellent Map or genealogical Table (containing the breadth and circumference of twenty large sheets of Paper) which he entitleth Britain's Monarchy, approving Brutus' History, and the whole succession of this our Nation, from the very Original, with the just observation of all times, changes and occasions therein happening. This worthy work, having cost above seven years labour, beside great charges and expense, his highness hath made very gracious acceptance of, and to witness the same, in Court it hangeth in an especial place of eminence. Pity it is, that this Phoenix (as yet) affordeth not a fellow, or that from privacy, it might not be made more general: but, as his Majesty hath granted him privilege, so, that the world might be worthy to enjoy it, whereto, if friendship may prevail, as he hath been already, so shall he be still as earnestly solicited. Brute, the son of Silvius, having unfortunately slain his father in hunting, Brute slew his Father Silvius. as he shot his Arrow at a Dear, was therefore banished his Country, whereupon he went into Grece, where a great number of the Trojans (living before in servitude) resorted to him, and by his valour he gave them liberty, by conquerring Pandrasus, King of that Country, who was descended of the Noble Achilles. He compelled him also, to let him have his fair Daughter Innogen in marriage, with furniture, money, victuals, and Shipping, wherewith (after many hard adventures) passing along the straits of Gibralterra, Brute met with Corineus. and coasting along the shore on the right hand: he met with Corineus, and another company, that came with him from Troy likewise with Antenor. joining then their powers together, they sailed on, till arriving within the rivers mouth of Loire, which divideth Aquitaine from Celtike Gallia, (supposed to be Gascoigne) they landed in the Dominions of a King, called Goffarius, and Surnamed Pictus, by reason he was descended of the people of Agathyisi, who were otherwise termed Picts. King Goffarius with his men did sharply resist those new comers, but sustained the worst twice, Brutus' resistance in Gallia. & in the last conflict, Brutus' Nephew (named Turnus) was slain; in whose memory Brute builded there a City, which (to this day) is called Tours in Touraigne. Departing thence, he and his train came to the Isle of Britain, and landed at the haven, now called Totnesse, Anno. 2855. and after the destruction of Troy 66. before the building of Rome, Brutus' landing in Albion. 368. years which was before our saviours nativity, 1116. almost ended. He found this land desolate, saving a few Giants, who in short time were vanquished: for Corineus wrestled with the strongest of them, named Goemagot or Gogmagog, at a place beside Donor, where he cast him headlong down from one of the rocks in regard whereof, the place is called Gogmagog's Leap or fall. Brute builded London, The building of London. calling it Troy-newydh, or Troia-nova. He begat on his wife Innogen, 3. sons, among whom he divided his kingdom before his death. To Locrine, who was the eldest, he gave the middle part, call it Loegria, or Loegiers. The division of Britain by Brute, to his sons. To Camber his second son, he gave the west part of the Island, calling it Cambria or Cymbry, divided from Loegria, by the river Severne. To his third son Albanact, he gave all the North part, entitling it Alban or Albania, according also to his name. To Corineus his dear esteemed friend and companion, he gave that part of the Land, which (after him) to this day is called Corinwall. Lastly, when he had governed this land 24. years. He died and was buried at that new City which he had builded. Anno ante incarnate. Christi, 1132. Locrine, after his Father Brutus' death, was king of Loegria, and Lord Paramount of the whole Island of Britain. In his time, Humber or Humyr, King of the Huns entered into Albania, and slew Albanact. The death of Albanact But Locrine and Camber, to revenge their brother's death, met in Arms with Humber, near to an arm of the Sea, that parted Loegria and Albania: where killing him in the fight, they threw his body into the water, which in memory of his name, is yet called Humber. Locrine married Gwendolyn, Daughter to Corineus, but falling in love with estrild, a strange Lady in King Humber's Camp: he rejected his wife, which caused her to raise an army against him. In trial of that fight. Locrine was slain, and Gwendolyn drowned estrild, The death of k. Locrine with her Daughter Sabrine, or Hauren, in the River of Severne, so called after her name. Locrine reigned twenty years, and left a Son, named Madan. Madan, son of Locrine and Gwendolyn, began his reign over the Britons, an. mundi, 2909 He used great tyranny among his people, & builded Madancaistre, now called Dancaster. Madan devoured by Wolves. Having ruled this land 40. years, he was devoured of Wolves & other wild beasts, as he was abroad in hunting. He left 2. sons, Mempricius & Manlius. 2949 Mempricius, eldest son of Madan, succeeded his Father, and slew his Brother Manlius, for better confirmation of his government. He fell into unlawful lusting after women, so that he forced his people's wives and daughters: and albeit he had a wife and many Concubines, yet he used the abominable sin of Sodom. Memprecius devoured by wild beasts. So that becoming hateful both to God and man, being one day lost of his people, as he was hunting, he (as his father) was eaten of wild beasts, after he had reigned 20. years. 2969 Ebranke, son of Mempricius by his lawful wife, succeeded in rule over the Britons. He had one and twenty wives, on whom he begat twenty Sons, and thirty Daughters. He was the first Prince of this Land, that ever invaded Gallia, now called France, from whence he returned with great riches and triumph. The building of York He builded the City of Caerbranke now called York, about the 14. year of his reign: & in Albania or Scotland, he builded also the Castle of Maidens, and the City of Alclud. He governed Britain very nobly forty years, and lieth buried at Caerbranke or York. 3009 Brute Tarianlas, or Greenshield, Son of Ebranke, succeeded his Father in the regiment of Britain. He sought to bring all Gallia under his subjection, and (some do avouch) that he performed it, albeit Brinchild gave him a great foil in Henault. He reigned twelve years, and was buried by his father at York. 3021 Leill, the son of Brute Greenshield, reigned after his Father. He builded the City called Caerleil, that is to say, Leill his City, The building of Carleill. or the City of Leill, and repaired also Carleon, now called Chester, which is said to be built before Brutus' entrance into this land, by a Giant named Leon Gaver. Leill reigned 25. years, and was buried at Carleill. Lud, or Ludhurdibras, the Son of Leill, 3046. ruled Britain after his Father. He builded the City of Kaerkin, now called Canterbury; The building of Canterbury, Winchester and Shaftsbury. the City of Caerguent, now called Winchester, and Mount Paladour, now called Shaftsbury: Aquila, a Prophet or Bardh of the British nation, wrote divers Prophecies concerning the building of Shaftsbury▪ Lud reigned 29. years, and was buried at Canterbury. Baldus, or Bladus, son of Ludhurdibras, 3085 succeeded his Father in the rule of Britain. He was skilful in the Sciences of Astronomy and Necromancy: he builded the City of Caerbran, now called bath, and made there hot Baths; The building of Bath though William of Malmsbury is of the mind that julius Caesar made those baths: which cannot be so, because julius Caesar never went so far that way into the Land. This Bladud was so proud of his art, that he would needs presume to fly in the air: but he fell on the Temple of Apollo in Troynovant, and was there torn in pieces, having reigned twenty years. Leir, the Son of Bladud, 3105. followed his Father in Britain's government, being a Prince of most Noble Nature, and governed his Subjects very royally. The building of Leircester, on the River of Sore. He builded the Town of Caerleir, now called Leircester. And because the History of his three Daughters, Goneril, Regan, & Cordeilla, with their several marriages to Henuinus, duke of Cornwall, Maglanus, Duke of Albania, and Agavippus prince of Gallia, is very well known, and all the fortunes thereto belonging; I am the easier induced to pass it over, with all the troubles happening to King Leir, through his own weakness. Leir reigned forty years, and was buried at Leircester. 3155 Cordeilla, youngest daughter to K. Leir, succeeded as Queen and Governess of Britain; but her two Nephews, Cunedagius and Morgan, sons to her, as unkind Sisters, made short her time of government, after the decease of her Husband Aganippus. For they imprisoning her, and she being a Lady of unconquerable courage: grief, and despair of liberty, made her there to slay herself, after she had ruled five years. ●150. Cunedagius and Morgan, divided the whole land between them, Britain divided the second time after Cordeillas' death. But envy and covetous desire in either, to rule alone, raised them in arms against each other, & Morgan was slain in Cambria by Cunedagius, and the place of his death is yet called Glan-Morgan, Morgan's land, he not having reigned above two years with his Brother: who afterward builded three temples, Cunedagius builded 3. Temples. one to Mars, at Perth in Scotland, another to Mercury, at Bangor in Cambria, and the third to Apollo in Cornwall. He reigned 33. years, and was buried at Troynovant. Rivallus, Son of Cunedagius, 3203. next ruled Britain, in whose time it reigned blood 3. days together, which blood engendered such multitudes of Horseflies, The building of Rome. that many people were stung to death by them. In his time was the City of Rome builded: he reigned 46. years, & was buried at York. Gurgustius, son of Rivallus, reigned 37. years. 3249 Sysillius, or Cecilius, Brother of Gurgustius, 3287 49. years. Iago, or Lago, Cousin to Gurgustius, 3336 twenty eight years. Kinimacus, or Kinmarus, Son of Sisillius, 3364 54. years. Corbodug, Son of Kinimacus, 43. years, 3418 or (by some) 62. years. Ferrex and Porrex, Sons or Gorbodug, 3476. reigned jointly, till ambition divided them, & Ferrex being slain in battle, the Mother of them both wrought (afterward) the death of Porrex. After which, great troubles endured for the space of fifty years, for the Sole-Monarchie of this land became then a Pentarchy, The Pentarchy of five Kings: as divided betwixt five Kings or Rulers: And here ended the line of Brute. The Pentarchy. 1. Rudacus. King of Cambria or Wales. 2. Cloton. King of Cornwall. 3. Pinnor. King of Loegria. 4. Staterus. King of Aibania. 5. Yewan, or Owen. King of Northumberland. 3529 Mulmutius Dunwallo, the Son of Cloton, who was allowed for most rightful Heir, he succeeded as Sole-Monarch of Britain, after his Father. This Mulmutius builded a Temple in Troynovant, called the Temple of Peace, which some do hold to be that ancient monument, called Blackwellhall. The building of Blackwell hall. Malmsbury and the vies builded. Mulmutius Laws. He builded also two Towns, Malmsbury and the vieth, and was the first king that was crowned with a Crown of Gold. He made divers good Laws, which long time after were called Mulmutius laws, being turned out of British into Latin, by Gildas Priscus, & (long time after) translated out of Latin into English, by Alfred K. of England, and mingled among his statutes. The 4 high ways of England. The beginning of sanctuary. He began to make the four great high ways of Britain, and gave privileges to Temples, Ploughs, Cities, & high ways leading to them, so that whosoever fled to them, should be in safety from bodily harm, and thence he might depart without prejudice to his person. In regard that he was the first king crowned with a golden Crown, most writers give him the name of the first King of Britain, And among his other ordinances, Weights & measures to buy and sell by. he first appointed weights and measures whereby men should buy and sell, and devised very severe punishments for Theft. He reigned 40 years, and was buried at Troynovant. 3574 Brennus and Belinus, the Sons of Mulmutius, had (in their Father's life time) the Land once more divided between them: Belinus enjoying Loegria, Britain again divided. Wales, & Cornwall: and Brennus all the Countries over and beyond Humber. But when Brennus grew covetous to exceed his portion, and sought to compass it by foreign assistance, he was enforced to flight, and Belinus quietly seated in the whole possession. Then finished he the four highways of Britain, which his Father had begun, which were called, The names of the four high ways of England. Belines-gate. The building of the Tower of London. the Fosse, Watling-streete, Erming-streete, and Hiknel-streete, confirming to them the privileges which his Father had formerly granted. He builded the Haven called Belines-gate, and a Castle also Eastward from that Gate, called (long time after) Belines castle, but is the same, which we now call the Tower of London: He reigned twenty six years, and was buried in Troynovant. Gurguintus, the Son of Belinus, 3596 succeeded in Britain after his Father. He subdued Denmark, and made them pay tribute to Britain: In his days was the Town of Cambridge, The foundation of Cambridge. with the University, first founded by Cantaber a Spaniard, according to Caius. He reigned 19 years, and was buried at Troynovant. Guintholinus, Son to Gurguintus, 3614 reigned after his Father, being married to a virtuous Lady, named Mertia, who devised certain Laws, which afterward were termed Mercian Laws. He ruled 27. years, and was buried at Troynovant. Sicilus, Son to Guintholinus, 3657 reigned after his Father, albeit he was then but seven years old, but his Mother Mertia had both the government of his person, and of the Realm, in which time she devised those Laws before mentioned. It is said, that then the Picts arrived in Britain, and possessed those parts, which now are the Marches of England and Scotland: The arrival of the Picts. he reigned seven years, and was buried at Troynovant. 3663. Kimarus, Son of Sicilius, reigned three years. 3669 Elanius, Son of Kimarus, reigned seven years. 3670 Morindus, Bastard Son of Elanius; In his time a came a wonderful Monster out of the Irish Seas, that destroyed many people, and the King in fight with the said monster, was devoured by him: having reigned six years. 3676 Gorbovianus, first Son of Morindus, who builded the town of Grantham, reigned 10. years. 3686 Archigallus, Elidurus, Vigenius, and Peridure, being all likewise the Sons of Morindus, reigned severally in Britain, by great contentions, all their times scarcely reaching to 27. years, yet Elidurus was crowned King three times, each after other. But no sooner died Elidurus (a King of most mild and princely nature) but there passed above 185. years, between the said Elidurus, and the beginning of King Luds reign, in which time there reigned 33. kings: 33. Kings betwixt Elidurus and Lud. of whose names and rule, Authors do so disagree, that I pass them over, and come to King Helie, who was the last of those 33. Kings, who gave name to the Isle of Elie, The Isle of Ely. builded a goodly palace there, with reparatiens of the Sluices, Ditches, & Causies about the Isle, for conveyance away of the water, yet he reigned not fully a year. Lud, eldest son to King Hely, 3895 succeeded in Britain's government. He enclosed Troynovant with a Wall made of lime and stone, and fortified with divers fair towns; building also a gate in the west part of the wall, Luds-gate. which he called Luds-gate. He erected likewise a goodly Palace, somewhat near to Luds-gate, which is now the Bishop of London's Palace, and (in mere affection to the City) he altered the name thereof from Troynovant, & called it Caer-Lud, Troynovant altered to Luds Town. that is Luds Town▪ since when, corruption hath termed it London. K. Lud reigned 11. years, & was buried near Ludgate. He left two sons, named Androgeus & Tenancius, whose minority in years made them uncapable of government. Cassibaline, Brother to K. Lud, 3508 was admitted King of Britain, or rather Ruler and Protector of the Land, during his nephews nonage. In the 8. year of his reign, julius Caesar (with his Romans) came into Britain, The Roman coming into Britain with Caesar. where being wearied (at first) with a sharp battle, & (after that) his navy well-near destroyed by a sudden tempest; he returned back into Gallia or France. But the next spring (being the year before Christ 51.) he crossed the seas again with a greater army, and compelled Cassibelane to consent, that Britain should become tributary to the Romans. Then reigned four Kings in Kent, Cingetorix, Taximagulus, Four Kings in Kent. Caruilius, & Segonax, all whose power could not withstand Caesar: whose prevailing thus in Britain, was Anno mundi, 3913. and after Brute, 1060. Cassibelane reigned 17. years. 3921 Tenantius, Luds youngest Son, succeeded as lawful King of Britain, because his Brother Androgeus had assisted Caesar, against Cassibelane: He reigned 23. years, and was buried at London. 3944 Kymbeline, or Cymbeline, Son to Tenantius, succeeded after his Father's decease. In his time was the Saviour of the World, The birth of jesus Christ our Lord jesus Christ, borne of the ever-blessed virgin Marie: Kymbeline reigned 35. years. Guiderius, eldest Son to Kymbaline, was King of Britain, The year of Christ in the year of our Lord after his incarnation 17. He, judging the romans tribute to be unjust, 17 denied to pay it. This Guiderius was slain at Portchester, Guideruis slain at Portchester. valiantly resisting against Claudius & his Romans, where one Hamo, who was on the Romans side, attired himself like a Britain, changed his shield and armour, and so entering the thickest of the British host, came at last where the K. was, and so slew him. But Arviragus, Brother to Guiderius, perceiving this villainy, caused himself presently to be clad in the king's coat, armour, and other furniture, whereby the King's death was scarcely discerned. He renewed the fight with such undaunted courage, the Claudius was beat back to his ships, & Homo to the next adjoining Woods, whether Arviragus pursued him, and slew him ere he could get off the haven, casting him piece-meal into the sea, which Haven (in memory of his name) was ever after called Hamans' Haven, How South hampton became so named. afterward by corruption) Hampton Haven, and now (at this day) commonly called Southampton. Guiderius reigned 23. or (after others) 29. years. Arviragus, youngest Son to Kymbeline, 46 succeeded his Brother, as King of Britain. In his time, Vespasian came into Britain, landing at Sandwich or Richborough. Also, about the year of Christ, joseph of Arimathia came into Britain. 53. and while this Arviragus reigned, joseph of Arimathia was sent by Philip the Apostle into Britain: and one Simon Zelotes came then thither also. Then began Britain to be governed by Roman Lieutenants and Treasurers. Arviragus reigned 28. years, Britain's governed by Roman. Deputies. died in the year of Grace, 73. and was buried at Gloucester. Marius, son of Arviragus, succeeded his father in the State, and then came the Picts, 73 with Roderick their King, into this land: The picts coming into Britain but Roderick was slain by Marius, and his people vanquished. In memory of which victory against the Picts, Marius erected a Stone, where the battle w●s fought, whereon was engragen Marij victoria. The Stone was set upon Stanesmoore, and the whole Country thereabout, taking name of this Marius, was called Westmaria, now Westmoreland. Marius reigned 53. years, Westmaria, Westmoreland. and was buried at Carleill. Coilus, Sun of Marius, was (after his Father's death) King of Britain, 125 having been educated among the romans, which made him pay them the tribute all the time of his reign. He builded the Town of Colichester in Essex, Colchester builded. now called Colchester: he reigned 55. years, departed this life at York, and lieth there buried, as some say, but others, at Co●lchester. 16● Lucius, son of Coilus, succeeded King after his Father, being a very godly and Virtuous Prince. And because since the coming of joseph of Arimathia into the land, there was much talk about Christ, and Holy Religion, which many had begun to embrace, he sent to Pope Eleutherius, that he would send some more learned men to him, whereby both he and his might fully be instructed in the faith of Christ. Eleutherius scent unto him D●ianus and Faganus (by some called Fugatius and Damianus) two worthy learned clerk, Britain's converted to the Christian faith. who at their coming, converted the King and his people from Paganism. There were in those days (within the bounds of Britain) 28. Flamines, and 3. Achflamines, archbishops & Bishops appointed in Britain. that were as bishops and Archishops of the Pagan Religion: in whose place King Lucius appointed the 28. bishops, and three archbishops of Christian Religion. O●● of which archbishops held his See at London, another at York, and the third at Caerleon Arswike in Glaumorganshire. To the archbishop of London was subject Cornwall, and all the middle part of England, even unto Humber. To the archbishop of York, all the North parts of Britain, from the River of Humber, to the furthest parts of Scotland. And to the Archbishop of Caerleon, was subject all wales, within which country were then seven bishops, where now there are but four. This King Lucius is said to build the Church of Saint Peter at Westminster, and Saint Peter's Church of Cornhill in London. S. Peter's Churches at Westminster & London in Cornhill This Lucius reigned 12. years, and dying without issue, the Britons fell at variance, by which means, the Roman Lieutenants go on again with their Government, the Emperor Adrian coming in person into Britain, & then the wall of Adrian was built, The Wall of Adrian. from the mouth of Tine, to the Water of Eske, containing thirty miles in length. Adrian having quieted all disturbances in Britain, Lollius, Vrbicus, Calphurnius Agricola, Vlpius Marcellus, Pertinax, Clodius Albinus and Heraclitus, succeeded each other as Lieutenants (over the Britons) for the romans, which manner of Government so continued, to the year of our Lord, 207. severn's, Emperor of Rome, 207 did now begin his rule in Britain, causing a Trench to be cast from Sea to Sea. He reigned not fully five years, and was buried at York. A Trench cast in Britain from sea to sea. His Sons Geta and Bassianus contended for the Government, Geta was slain in battle, and Bassianus ruled six years: but he was likewise slain by one Caransius, a Britain of unknown Birth, whom the Britain's accepted as their King▪ till Alectus was sent from Rome with his Legions of Soldiers, who conquered Caransius in field, and slew him. Aesclepiodotus, Duke of Cornwall, prevailing in fight against Alectus, and Livius Gallus, or Wallus, whom (when he had slain, he threw into a Brook, Wallus Brooke, Walbrook. which took name of him, and was called Wallus Brooke, now Walbrooke) was admitted to reign over the Britain's. And discord being afterward raised, between the King, and one Coell, Earl of Colchester, they met in a field of battle, where Asclepiodotus was slain, after he had reigned thirty years. At this time was Britain in cruel persecution, The martyrdom of S. Alban. under the bloody tyrants Dioclesian and Maximus; Alban, a Citizen of Werlamchester, being the first that suffered martyrdom in Britain, he being converted to Christian faith by zealous Amphibilaus, and because he would not sacrifice to their false Gods, he was beheaded on the top of the hill over-against Werlamchester, where a Church and Monastery was builded in memory of his martyrdom, Werlamchester, S. Albans. and Werlamchester being destroyed, the place took name of him, and is to this day called S. Albans. A number of Christians were likewise assembled at another place, john Rossus Warwicons. in l●●. de wigor●. Epis. to hear the word of life preached by that virtuous man Amphibilaus, but they were all there slain by the Pagans, and the place (in their memory) named Lichfield, The field of dead bodies. It is also recorded, Lichfielde▪ why it was so called. that in the days of these Tyrants, Dioclesian and Maximus, of godly men and Women, professing the faith of jesus Christ, there were martyred in sundry place, above 17000. 26● Coell, Earl of Colchester, began his rule over the Britain's, in An. Dom. 262. But Constantius being sent from Rome to suppress him, Constantius married Helena, daughter to King Coell. he covenanted to pay the tribute, & gave his daughter Helena (a Noble and learned Lady) in marriage to Constantius. King Coell reigned 27. years, and is said to be buried at Colchester, or rather at Gloucester. Constantius succeeded in the rule of Britain, 189 after Coell, and had by his wife Helena a Son, named Constantine, that was afterward Emperor, and surnamed Constantine the Great. The martyrdom of Amphibilaus. In this Constantius days, Amphibliaus was apprehended, and suffered martyrdom at Redburne, near to Werlamchester, fifteen years after the death of S. Alban: Constantius reigned eleven years. Constantine, 306 son of Constantius and Helena, and sir named the Great, was King after his Father, and created Emperor in Britain. Q Helena found the Cross and the Nails. His Mother Queen Helena went to jerusalem, where she found the Cross that our Saviour was crucified on, and the Nails, which she gave to her Son Constantine; who did set one of them in the Crest of his Helmet, another in the bridle of his horse, and the third he threw into the Sea, to assuage a rough Tempest. Octavius or Octavian, began his reign over the Britain's in Anno 329. 329 being called Duke of Windsor. octavius put to flight by Trahernes He assembled a great company of people, and fought with the Governors of the Land which Constantine had here appointed: yet was he expelled by Traherne into Norway, and Traherne being slain by treason afterward, Octavius sent Maximianus, Cousin to the Emperor Constantine, to whom he gave his daughter in marriage. Octavius reigned 54. years. About this time, Helena walleth London & Colchester. the Empress Helena, Mother to Constantine, for love she bore to Colchester and London, did newly engirt them both with Walls round about, causing great Brick and huge Tiles to be purposely therefore made, which are yet to be seen in the Town and Castle of Colchester. 383 Maximianus, or Maximus, usurped in Britain the Title of the Empire, and assembling all the men of War, and youth of the Realm, he went into France, expelled the Frenchmen out of Armorica, and placed Britons' there under Conon Meridoc, Duke of Cornwall, whereon it was ever after called Britain the Less. Little Britain This Maximus or Maximianus, having slain the Emperor Gratian, at Lions in France, was slain himself at Aquileia, by the Emperor Theodosius, after he had governed the Britain's eight years. 390 Gratian, a Britain, taking on himself the Rule of Britain, for his stern and rough Government was quickly slain. About this time, The Saxons first entrance into Britain. did the Saxons first enter into this Land, and the Roman Empire greatly declining, their rule in this kingdom, and payment of Tribute (which had continued for the space of four hundred eighty three years) now quite ceased. Constantinus, Brother of Aldroemus, King of little Britain, at the suit of the Archebyshoppe of London, in Name of all the Britons, accepted the Government of this Land, Constantinus crowned at Cicester. and was Crowned at Cicester. He had three Sons, Constantius (who was made a Monk) Aurelius Ambrose, and Uter, surnamed Pendragon. This Constantinus was Traitorously slain in his Chamber, by a Pict, and then one Vortiger, a Britain, a man of great power amongst the Britain's, took Constantius out of the Abbey of Winchester, and Crowned him King. But causing him soon after to be murdered, and the murderers strangled, lest he should be discovered, he got himself to be chosen King, Aurelius Ambrose, and Uter Pendragon, (brethren to the murdered king) being glad to fly into Britain Armorica. Hengist the Saxon, and his Brother Horssus, bringing great store of Saxons into the Realm, by marrying his Daughter Rowen to Vortiger, Hengist the Saxon & his Brother Horsus. grew into no mean savour, filling still the Land with three sorts of German people, (to wit:) Saxons, jutes, and Angles, who at length, made such spoil and hawcke of the Britons, that from Sea to Sea, the whole Realm, was most pitifully wasted and ruined: the Britain's being enforced for to fly out of their own Country, Vortiger deposed, & Vortimer Crowned. and the Saxons enjoyed their possessions. Vortiger was deposed, and Vortimer his Son crowned King, who had four principal Battles with the Saxons, and prevailed very worthily against them, till (by the means of Rowen, Daughter to Hengist) Vortimer was poisoned after he had governed the Britain's seven years and odd months. Then was Vortiger restored to his kingdom again, and Hengist performed his bloody treachery on Salisbury Plain, The Britain Nobles murdered on Salisbury plain. on a May day, murdering 460. Noble Britain's with Knives, which he and his Saxons had closely hid in their Pockets. There was Vortiger taken prisoner, and could not gain his liberty, till he had granted Hengist three Provinces or Countries of his Kingdom, to wit, Kent and Essex, or (as some write) Sussex, where the South Saxons afterward inhabited, and Norfolk and Suffolk, where the East- Angles planted themselves. At this time was the Heptarchy or seven Kingdoms of this Land, Aurelius and his Brother Uter, returned out of Britain Armorica, with a powerful Army, and marching into Wales against Vortiger, The death of Vortiger. assailed him in his Castle, which they consumed with fire, where perished Vortiger, and all else there with him. Aurelius Ambrose was made King of Britain, anno 481. 481. He gave Hengist battle, who flying for safety, The death of Hengist. was taken by Edoll Earl of Chester, & beheaded at Conningsborow. In memory of the Britain's slaughter on Salisbury plain, stones were fetched out of Ireland, and set up in the same place, Stone-heng and called to this day Stone-heng. Aurelius reigned nineteen years, was poisoned by a counterfeit Monk, and buried at Stone-heng. Uter, surnamed Pendragon, 500 because Merlin likened him to a Dragon's head, which (at his birth) marvelously appeared in the firmament, The birth of Arthur. at the corner of a blazing Star. He loved fair Igrine, wife to Gorlois Duke of Cornwall, on whom he begot the valiant Prince Arthur. Uter reigned 18. years, and was buried by his Brother at Stone-heng. Arthur, Son of Uter Pendragon, 5●6 succeeded his Father in the kingdom. He fought twelve battles against the Saxons, Arthur had 12. battles against the Saxons. returning Conqueror in every one of them: yet could he not drive them out of the land, but still they possessed Kent, Sutherie and Norfolk. He instituted the order of the round Table, was deadly wounded in a battle which he fought with his cousin Mordred; and having reigned 26. years, was buried at Glastenbury between two Pillars, where his body was afterward found, in the days of King Henry the second, about the year, 1191. Constantine, Cousin to Arthur, 542 and Son of Cador, Duke of Cornwall, succeeded next in the government: But Aurelius Conan warred against him, and slew him in the field, when he had reigned four years, and was buried at Stone-heng. Aurelius Conan, was next King of Britain, 546 albeit his Uncle had most right thereto, whom he imprisoned, and cruelly murdered his two sons: Conan murdered his Nephews. after which himself lived not long, but died before he had reigned two years. 548 Vortiporus reigned after his Father Aurelius Conan four years, and left no issue to succeed him in the kingdom. 580 Malgo, Nephew of Aurelius Conan, reigned five years. Careticus ruled Britain three years, and the English and Saxon Kings (removing the Britain's) enlarged the bounds of their own Dominions: so that beside the Kings of Britain, there reigned eight Kings of the English & Saxons, Eight kings of the English & Saxons. as Ethelbert in Kent, Cissa in Sussex, Ceauline in Westsex, Creda or Crida in Mercia, Erkenwine in Essex, Titila in Eastangles, Ella in Deira, and Alfred in Bernitia. The Britons lost possession of the more part of their ancient seats, The Britain's loose their ancient seats and the faith of Christ was thereby greatly decayed, for the Churches were destroyed, and the Archishops of Caerleon Arswike, London and York, withdrew (together with their Clergy) into the Mountains and Woods in Wales. Now was Augustine the Monk, and others sent to preach the Christian faith in Britain, Augustine the Monk sent into Britain. and was made archbishop of Britain, or the English Nation, and King Ethelbert (with his people of Kent) were converted to the Christian faith. 613 Cadwan was elected King of the Britain's in Anno 613. The Britain● 24. years without a King. For (after Careticus) they had remained (for about the space of 24. years) without any especial Governor, being led by sundry Rulers: this had before been Duke or Ruler of North-wales. He governed two and twenty years. Cadwallo or Cadwalline, Son of , 635 succeeded as King of the Britain's, after his Father. He reigned 48. years, and being dead, his body was balmed with sweet confections, and put into a Brazen Image, by marvelous Art melted and cast, which Image was also mounted on a goodly brazen horse, and so set up aloft on the West gate of London, called Ludgate, in token of his Conquests, and for a terror to the Saxons. S. Martin's at Ludgate built. The Church of Saint Martin under the same Gate, was then also builded by the Britain's. Cadwallader, Son of Cadwallo, 678 succeeded him in the Britain's government, whose reign lasted but three years, for he was constrained (with his people) to forsake their Native Country, and by Sea to fly over into Britain Armorica, there to seek relief for their languishing bodies. In this Cadwallader ended the line and government of the Britain's, The ending of the Britons Government. now called Welshmen, which name they took of their Leader Wallo or Gallo, or else of a Queen of Wales, called Gales or Wales. The Britain's had the greater part of this Land in rule (reckoning from Brute to this time) 1822. years, and now the whole Dominion of the Land, came to the Saxons. Egbert, the Son of Alcmund, a petty Prince, 800 the son of Offa, of the blood of Ina, King of the Westsaxons, having been banished by k. Brightrick into France; after Brightricks' death, was repealed home, and succeeded as the seaventéenth King of the Westsaxons. He subdued the Cornishmen, and sevearely punished the unquiet Welshmen. The victories of King Egbert. Bernulfe King of Mercia, was overthrown by him, and Kent, Essex, Southrie, and Sussex, with their several Kings, all brought under his obeisance, and the kingdom of Northumberland yielded unto him. Then subdued he North-wales, and took the City of Chester. Afterward, assembling a Counsel at Winchester, he was there crowned King and Sovereign Lord of the whole land: which he changed from the name of Britain, and from the several appellations of the Heptarchy, and called it Engle-lond, The first nomination of England, by K. Egbert. or Angles-land, that is to say, The Englishmen Land, whereof in Latin it was termed Anglia, a name taken from the Angles, which, of the three people then possessing it, to wit, the jutes, Saxons, and Angles (being indeed all but one Nation) were the most valiant and populous. In his time was the first invasion of the Danes, and he had an overthrow by them at Carrum: The first invasion of the Danes. which success causing them to adventure the like attempt the year following, landing their Fleet in Wales, and joining with the Welshmen, they were overthrown by K. Egbert, at a place called Hengistenton, and a great number of them slain. This glorious Prince, having greatly enlarged the bounds of his kingdom, and reigned seven and thirty years, died, and was very Royally buried at Winchester. 837. Ethelwolph, eldest son to the most victorious King Egbert, succeeded next in the kingdom of England. All the time of his reign, he was grievously troubled with the Danes invasions; A worthy victory over the Danes but he had a worthy victory over them at Ockley in Southrey, such as the like hath hardly been heard of in the English Dominions. He divided the kingdom between himself, & his son Ethelbald, & having reigned twenty years▪ was honourably buried in the Cathedral Church at Winchester. 857 Ethelbald succeeded his Father Ethelwolphe by inheritance, but to his second son Ethelbert (in his life time) he had given the kingdoms of Kent and Essex, which he had conquered. Ethelbald defiled his father's bed. This Ethelbald presumed to defile his Father's bed, and married his Stepmother judith: he reigned five years, and dying, was buried at Shirbourn. Ethelbert, second son of King Ethelwolph, 862. succeeded after his Brother Ethelbald in the regiment. This Ethelbert drove the Danes out of Kent, many times overthrew them, & put them to flight. He reigned five years, and was buried by his Brother Ethelbald at Shirbourne. Ethelred, third Son to King Ethelwolph, 867 reigned next after his Brother Ethelbert. He fought nine battles with the Danes in one year, Nine Ba●t●● fought with the Dan●s in one ye● bearing still the victory away with him; but dissension among the Saxon Kings, furthered the Danes in conquest of their kingdoms. Ethelred was slain in fight with the Danes, having reigned five years, and was buried at Winbourne Abbey. Alfred, or Alured, surnamed the Great, 87● youngest Son to Ethelwolph, succeeded his Brother in the Kingdom. He was very greatly troubled with the Danes, who invading divers parts of the Land, did most cruelly waste it: yet had he (in one year) seven battles with them, and over-throwing them at length, recovered his kingdom. He builded 3. Monasteries, one at Edlingsey, afterward called Athelny, near Taunton in Sommersetshire; K. Alfred builded 3. Monasteries the second at Winchester, called the New Minster; and the third at Shaftsbury, where his Daughter Ethelgeda was Abbess. Oxford built by Ki. Alfred. But, by persuasion of Neote, a famous Learned Monk, he built the University of Oxford, being himself a good Grammarian, Rhetorician, Philosopher, physician and Poet, as also a most perfect Architect. He reigned 29. years, and six months, and was buried in his New-Minster, at Winchester. 900 Edward, son to King Alfred, and Surnamed the Elder, succeeded in the kingdom after his Father. He subdued the Kingdom of the Eastangles, and so enlarged the bounds of his Kingdom, The Eastangles conquered by K▪ Edward. that he had most part of Great Britain under his obedience; he built a new Town at Nottingham, on the Southside of Trent, and made a Bridge over between the old Town and new. He repaired Manchester in Lancashyre, (accounted then the Southend of Northumberland) and built a Town, called (by ancient writers) Thilwall, K. Edward a great builder. near to the River of Mercia, placing therein a Garrison of Soldiers. Diver other Towns and Castles also he builded, as two at Buckingham, on either side the River Ouse, against the Danes incursions, and another at the mouth of Auon: he repaired the Towns of Toceter and Wigmore, and having reigned 24. years, was buried in the New Minster or Monastery at Winchester. Athelstane, or Adelstane, eldest Son of King Edward, succeeded his Father, 924 and (as his Ancestors) was crowned at Kingston on Thames. A great army of the Danes, Scots, and Irish, was overthrown by King Athelstane; Northumberland, Westmoreland, and Cumberland yielded unto him. King Athelstane the first monarch of England. He was the first of the English Kings, that obtained the government of the whole Kingdom, which continued so 140. years after, though not without some interruption, the Danes (in the mean time) usurping the Crown by the space of thirty years. The Welsh & Cornishmen ware subdued by him. He builded two Monasteries, one at Wilton, in the Diocese of Salisbury, and another at Michelme in Somersetshire, founding also a College of Priests, at S. Edmundsbury. There were few famous Monasteries in this land, but he beautified them either with some new piece of building, jewels, Books, or Lands, and caused the sacred Scriptures to be translated out of the most pure Fountain of the hebrews, into the English Saxon tongue. He reigned 16. years, and was buried at Malmesbury. Edmund, Brother to King Athelstane, succeeded next after him, and vanquishing the Danes, 940 was afterward unfortunately slain, having reigned five years, and was buried at Glastenbury. 946 Eldred or Eadred, Brother to King Edmund, succeeded next in the royal Dignity, being crowned also at Kingston upon Thames. Edwin and Edgar, Sons to King Edmund, were put by from ruling, in regard of their tender age. Eldred subdued the Northumber's, repaired the Abbey of Abington, built by King Ina, but ruined by the Danes. And having reigned nine years, was buried in the old Monastery at Winchester. 955 Edwine, eldest Son to King Edmund, succeeded his Uncle Eldred, and was crowned at Kingston. This Edwin was wholly addicted to sensuality and pleasure, banished Dunstane, Abbot of Glastenbury, for reproving his Rape of Algiva, his near Kinswoman, even when his Lords were sitting in Counsel. He having reigned four years, was deprived, and dying with grief, was buried in the new Abbey at Winchester. 959 Edgar, Brother to King Edwine, was anointed and crowned King at bath, and afterward at Kingston. He was a great favourer of Religious men, and had a Fleet of three thousand and six hundred ships always in readiness, K. Edgar his fleet of ships and sailed therewith (once a year) about all great Britain. He had the whole Isle, and all the Kings thereof in subjection to him, and was rowed up and down the River of Dee, by seven Kings his vassals: Luduall, one of those Kings, did pay him a yearly tribute of Wolves. A tribute of Wolves. He reigned 16. years, and was buried at Glastenburie. Edward, eldest Son to King Edgar, 975 succeeded his Father, being crowned at Kingston, but by Counsel of Elfrith, his Stepmother, he was treacherously murdered, when he had reigned three years, and was buried at Shaftesbury. Ethelred, or Egelred, 979 second Son to King Edgar, was crowned at Kingston; but because his coming to the Crown was by his brother's murder, he could never obtain his people's affection. The Danes murdered in one night. All the Danes in England (by the command of King Ethelred) were murdered in one night. He reigned 38. years, and was buried in Saint Paul's Church in London. Edmund, Son to King Ethelred, 1016 and Surnamed Ironside, was immediately proclaimed K. after his Father's death; as the Clergy and Nobility did the like to Canutus, because they had sworn fealty to his Father Swain, or Sweno: Edmund Ironside and Canutus both proclaimed Kings. whereon three great battles were fought betwixt King Edmund and Canutus, & the Danes overthrown at Otford in Kent, beside the great battle at Ashdone in Essex, near Saffron walden, where the Englishmen were foiled by the Danes, and the Land once again divided, between Canutus and King Edmund, who was treacherously slain at Oxford, having reigned but one year, and some few months, and was buried at Glastenbury. Canutus the Dane, 1017. challenging all England to himself, was crowned King in Saint Paul's Church in London, and married Queen Emma, the widow of king Etheldred: he reigned xx. years, and was buried at Winchester. 1035. Harold, surnamed Harefoot, using the power of the Danes in England, invaded the Realm, while his brother Hardikenutus Governed in Denmark. He reigned four years, died at Oxford, and was buried at Westminster. Hardikenutus, or Hardy-Canutus, Son of King Canutus, 1041 and his Queen Emma, obtaining his Father's Kingdom; sent for his mother from exile. He died with the cup in his hand, as he sat merrily disposed at his Table, in the third year of his reign, The ending of the Danes government in England. and was buried at Winchester. With this Hardy-Canutus, ended the dominion of the Danes in England, who had grievously oppressed this nation, for the space of 250. years. 1042 Edward, the son of Ethelred and Emma, was next crowned King at Winchester, all the Danes being then quite expulsed the land. This Edward was Surnamed the Confessor, for his virtuous life and worthy Laws: also he is said to be the first that cured the Disease, called, The kings Evil. The kings Evil. He reigned three and twenty years, and was buried at Westminster, which (in his life time) he had most sumptuously repaired. 1067 Harold, son of Earl Goodwin, took upon him the government of the kingdom: but William, Duke of Normandy, came into England with a powerful Army, and (in battle) Harold was shot through the brains with an Arrow, England conquered by D. William. having reigned but nine months, and was buried in the Monastery of Waltham in Essex, by whose death, Duke William obtained his Conquest of England. William, Duke of Normandy, 1067 base Son of Robert, Duke of Normandy, and Nephew to King Edward the Confessor, whom he perceived more addicted to virtue, than policy, Duke Williams policy to get the Crown. and through debility of body not like to live long: contrived his own attaining to the crown of this land, after the decease of the aged King. For he placed divers Normans, in the chiefest rooms about him while he lived, and when he was dead, levied an Army of divers Nations, and therewith pretending the Patronage of England, against Harold, Earl Godwins' Son, who usurped the Kingdom; first fought with him, and flew him at a place now called Battle, in Sussex, and then took the Crown on him, by election of the Estates. Seeking next to bar Titles, Edgar Etheling, true heir of the Saxons blood he imprisoned Edgar Etheling, the only true heir of the Saxons blood, and by means of Ethelbert, Archbishop of Hamborow, procured Sweno, King of Denmark (for money) to cease the Danes claim. He builded four strong Castles: one, at Nottingham, another at Lincoln, the third at York, and the fourth near to Hafting, where he landed at his first arrival in England. He devised the Cover le feu Bell, to be Rung nightly at eight of the clock, in all Cities, Towns, Rake up the fire. and Villages, for prevention of mighty tumults. He ordained the Terms, The four Terms. and that they should be kept four times in the year, and judges to sit in several Courts, for desciding controversial matters betwixt party and party, as is used unto this day. He appointed Sheriffs in every shire, and justices of the peace, to see offenders punished, and the Countries kept in quiet. He ordained the Court of Exchequer, with the Barons, Clerks and Officers, thereto belonging, as also the high Court of Chancery, with the Book then called, The Exchequer and Court of Chancery. The Roll of Winchester, now, The Doomsday Book, whereby the whole Land was taxed, and every man's estate, and wealth thoroughly known. He reigned twenty years, ten months, and 26. days, and was buried in the Abbey of Saint Stephen, at Ca●n in Normandy, which he had founded. And this is well worthy memory, that he being so great a Conqueror, K. William destitute of a Grave. yet after his death, could not have so much ground to bury his dead body, without wronging some other, until that (by his Executors) it was bought for him. William Rufus, second son to the Conqueror, 1087 by his Father's appointment succeeded him in the Kingdom, and was crowned at Westminster. Robert, elder Brother to King William, & Duke of Normandy, went with Godfrey Duke of Bullen, and other Christian Princes to the Holy-land, to recover it from the Saracens. This King William Rufus, caused new Walls to be builded about the Tower of London, and laid the foundation of Westminster Hall. The foundation of Westminster Hall. He reigned thirteen years, and was slain with an Arrow, by one Sir Walter Tyrel, a French knight, in the New Forest in Hampshire, his body being buried at Winchester. In which Forest, not many years before, 511 had stood 36. Parish Churches, divers fair Towns, Villages, and Hamlets, containing thirty miles in circuit: New forest in Hampshire, and strange accidents the● happening. all which was laid waist by the Conqueror, the poor inhabitants expelled thence, and it was made a place for wild beasts to live in. It was somewhat strange, that in that very place, the King should be so unfortunately slain; Richard his Brother blasted to death, and Henry the Conqueror's Nephew, by his eldest Son Robert, as he over-earnestly pursued the game, in the the bushes (like to another Absalon) strangely strangled to death; vengeance from God (as was thought) punishing the father's offence in his posterity. Henry, 1100 surnamed Beauclerke for his Learning, and youngest son to the Conqueror, succeeded his Brother King William, & was crowned at Westminster. Robert, Robert D. of Normandy. Duke of Normandy, being returned from the Holie-Lande, warred with his Brother Henry, for his right in the crown of England, and after much contention, being taken and committed Prisoner unto Cardiff Castle in Wales, after 26. years imprisonment, he there died, and was buried at Gloucester. Maud, King Henry's Daughter, was married to the Emperor Henry: but his other children, William, Duke of Normandy, his Sister Marie, Countess of Perch; Richard, Earl of Chester, with his Brother Otwell, Governor to Duke William, and the said Earl of Chester his wife, King Henry's Children drowned. the kings Niece, with divers others, to the number of 140. persons, beside 50. Mariners, following the king out of Normandy, were all drowned. King Henry reigned 35. years, died in the Forest of Lions in Normandy, and was buried in the Abbey of Reading, which he had founded. In this king Henry first of that name, ended the line of the Norman kings, concerning their heirs male, who had reigned about 69. years: and then began the French, by Title of the heirs general. 1135 Stephen, Earl of Bullen and Mortaigne, son to Stephen Earl of Bloys, by Adela, Daughter to king William the Conqueror, usurped the crown from Maud the Empress, and her young son Henry, K. Stephen usurped the Crown. which caused great Wars between him and her, and very miserable times to the people; till by an assembly of the Lords at Winchester, Articles of peace and agreement were concluded. King Stephen reigned fifteen years, ten months, and three and twenty days, and was buried in the Abbey of Feversham in Kent. 1154 Henry, surnamed Fitz-Empresse, and Shortmantle, succeeded next in the crown of England. He expelled strangers out of the Land, and had a long and troublesome contention, Tho. Becket Archbishop of Canterb. with Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury. He crowned his son Henry, as fellow-King with him, which procured him much molestation, by means of his Queen, and his other sons. In his time, was the conquest of Ireland, Dublin, and Waterford, being won by Earl Strongbow. He had divers Concubines, but especially fair Rosamond, whom he kept in a Labyrinth at Woodstock, where she was poisoned by Q. Elinor. King Henry the second reigned 34. years, nine months and two days, and dying, was buried at Font-Euerard in the Duchy of Alencon. In him ended the reign both of the Normans and Frenchmen, over the Realm of England. Richard, Earl of Poitiers, 1189 and second Son to King Henry, was crowned King at Westminster. He went to the Holy-land, Ki. Richard went to the holy-Land, he was called Cuee●de-Lion. and performed many worthy services there: his brother john (in his absence) aspired to rule the whole land, being provoked thereto by the French king. As King Richard besieged the Castle of Chalus Cheverel; he was wounded with an empoisoned quarrel, shot at him by one Barturam de Gurden, or Peter Bazile, whereof he died, having reigned nine years, nine months, and odd days, and was buried at Font-Euerard. john, Lord of Ireland, Earl of Mortaign and Gloucester, & brother to king Richard, 1199 was crowned at westm. He had long & tedious contentions with his Barons, as also with the pope, by whose means, Lewes the French kings son, was drawn into the business, & had the crown offered him by the Lords, whereon he wrought great spoil in the Land. King john reigned 17. years, six months, and 27. days, and dying by poison, was buried at Worcester. 1216 Henry, third of that name, and eldest Son to King john, succeeded immediately after his Father, albeit he was but nine years old: the Barons and French Lewes, being still very mollestuous, William Martial, Earl of Pembroke. against whom William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke, was chief General of the King's forces, and prevailed worthily. This King Henry, reigned 56. years, and 27. days, and was buried at Westminster. 1272 Edward, eldest Son to King Henry, and Surnamed Long-shankes, was crowned at Westminster, after his return home from the Holy Land. Wales conquered This King conquered Wales, and divided it into Shires; and banished the jews for ever out of England. Having reigned 34. years, seven months, and twenty days, he died, and was buried at Westminster. Edward of Carnarvan, son to King Edward the first, 2307 succeeded in the kingdom after his Father. This king did overmuch affect an Esquire of Gascoigne, Piece Gau●ston. called Pierce Gavaston, and disshonoured many of his Lords, to advance him: as he did the like, by the two Spensers, the Father and Son. At length, he was imprisoned by his Barons, with help of the Queen and Prince, and then deposed, when he had reigned nineteen years, six months, and seventeen days. Edward the third, 1327 son to king Edward the second, was crowned at Westminster in his Father's life time. Flanders, yielded themselves & all their Towns to King Edward, and, laying claim to the Crown of France (in right of his Mother Queen Isabella) he entered that land with a puissant army, and quartered the Arms of France, with his own of England. The Order of the Garter. He devised the worthy Order of the Garter: and Prince Edward, Surnamed the Black Prince (beside his famous victories in France) reseated Don Peter king of Castille in his kingdom, which his bastard Brother Henry usurped against him. K. Edward the third reigned fifty years, and five months, and dying at Sheen, was buried at Westminster. Richard, second of that name, 1277. son to Edward the Black Prince, being about eleven years old, succeeded after his Grandfather King Edward; the Duke of Lancaster, and the Earl of Cambridge, being Protectors of the young king's person. The rebellion of jack Straw, jack Straw, & his rebels and Wat Tyler, with the Essex and Kentishmen then happened, and the worthy act of William Walworth, Lord Mayor of London, in arresting the traitor. Great storms arose between the king and his Nobles, because he had let to Farm the realm of England, to Lords that abused the king, and much misgoverned him, sending abroad blank Charters, etc. Whereupon, in the end, Articles against the King. Articles were framed against the king, and he committed to the Tower of London: Henry, Surnamed Bullingbrooke, son to john of Gaunt, being proclaimed king, and Richard quite deprived, when he had reigned 22. years, three months, & nine days. Dying, he was buried at Langley. 1399. Henry Plantagenet, borne at Bullingbroke, in the County of Lincoln, being Cosingermaine to king Richard the second, succeeded next by Richard's deprivation, The Crown entailed. and entailed the crown to him and his heirs. Owen Glendoure, with his Welshmen, entered into Rebellion against the king, and did put him in great danger of his life by Treason, by conveying a Caltrop into his bed. This king Henry reigned 13. years, and odd months, and was buried at Canterbury, with great solemnity. 1413 Henry of Monmouth, son and heir to king Henry the fourth, succeeded after his father. He urged his title to France, The battle of Agin-court. and fought the famous battle at Agin-court. He reigned nine years, six months, and four days, and dying at Boys de Vinciennes in France, was buried at Westminster. Henry of windsore, being but nine months old, 1423 did yet succeed in his lawful right. He was also crowned king of France at Paris, and had his time troubled with many grievous combustions both abroad and at home, as also divers fought battles, The houses of York & Lancaster. to the effusion of much blood. He reigned 38. years, six months, and four days, and was buried first at Chertsey, and afterward removed to windsor. 1461 Edward, Earl of March, took on him the government of the Realm, being son to Richard Duke of York, that was slain at Wakefield. His reign also was filled with many troubles, broils, and Rebellions: yet he governed 22. years, one month, and eight days, and was buried at Windsor. Edward the fifth, son to king Edward the fourth, 1483 succeeded after his father, being never crowned, but deposed by his Uncle Richard, Duke of Gloucester, when he had reigned two months, Edw. 5. never crowned & eleven days, and with his brother, was murdered in the Tower of London, where both their bodies were obscurely buried. Richard, Duke of Gloucester, usurped the kingdom two years, two months, and one day: 1483. and was slain in battle at Bosworth field, Bosworth field. by Henry Earl of Richmond, and buried at Leicester. In him ended the line of the Plantagenets. Henry, Earl of Richmond, 1485 surnamed Tudor, son to Edmund of Hadham, Earl of Richmond, who was son of Owen ap Meredyth, and Queen Katherine the French kings daughter, wife to king Henry the fifth. This king Henry, builded and repaired in his life time, many goodly houses, beside his Manor of Richmond, The memorable buildings of king Henry the seventh. and his Chapel at Westminster; as Baynard's Castle in London; the goodly Hospital of the Savoy, near. Charingcross, to which he gave lands, for relief of an hundred poor people. Sir Religious houses for Franciscan Friars, of the Observant and Coventall orders, (viz.) at Richmond, at Greenwich, and at Newarke, for Observants: at Canterbury, Newcastle, & Southampton, for Coventals. He gave also many sums of money, to good and godly uses. And for that one of the goodliest chapels in Europe, was (by his means) finished, formerly begun by king Henry the sixth, called the King's college Chapel, kings College chapel in Cambridge. in the University of Cambridge: I cannot omit the sum he gave to accomplish the same, which was 10000 lt. (viz.) 5000. pounds in his life time, and the rest by will at his death, under his great Seal of England, which was truly paid, as is yet to be seen in the same College. He married his eldest daughter Margaret, to james the fourth, King of Scots: of which happy marriage, we enjoy our dread Sovereign now reigning, King james the sixth. King Hentie reigned 23. years, and somewhat more than 8. months, and was buried in his new Chapel at Westminster. 1509 Henry the eight, son of king Henry the seventh, succeeded next in the kingdom after his father. He banished the Pope's authority out of England, and was proclaimed King of Ireland, because the former Kings were only called Lords of Ireland. Lords of Ireland. He won Terwin, Tourney, and Bullen in France, and gave the Church of the Grey Friars in London to the City, to be a place of relief for poor people; King Henry's gifts, to charitable uses. S. Bartholomewes' spital, the Grey Friars, and two parish Churches, the one called S. Nicholas in the Shambles, the other S. Ewin in Newgate Market, were then made all one parish Church, and he gave in Lands for maintenance thereof, five hundred Marks by the year for ever. He reigned 37. years, 9 months, and 5. days, and was buried at Windsor. Edward the sixth, 1549 only son to king Henry the eight, was crowned king at Westminster. He caused the Mass to be utterly abolished, The Mass abolished. Images to be defaced in Churches, and the Lords supper to be ministered in both kinds. There was then good orders devised for the poors relief, & poor people were distinguished by three several degrees, in manner following: Three degrees of poor. 1. The poor by impotency. 2. Poor by casualty. 3. Thristlesse poor. 1. The poor by impotency, were also divided into 3 kinds 1. The fatherless poor man's ch●●d. 2. The aged, blind, and lame. 3. The diseased person, by leprosy dropsy, etc. 2. The poor by casualty, were also of three kinds. 1. The wounded Soldier. 2. The decayed Housholder. 3. The visited with grievous disease. 3. The thriftless poor were likewise of 3. kinds. 1. The Riotor, that consumeth all. 2. The Vagabond, that will abide in no place. 3. The idle ●erson, as Strumpets and others. 1 Christ's Hospital was appointed for the innocent and fatherless child, Christ's hospital. to be trained up in knowledge of God, and virtuous exercises. 2 Saint Thomas Hospital in Southwark, was appointed for relief of the aged, S. Thomas Hospital. blind, and lame. Bridewell. 3 Bridewell was also appointed for the Vagabond, idle strumpet, and unthrift. Of all which several Hospitals, this Virtuous young k. Edward was the founder, and gave the lands of the Savoy (which then served as a harbour to Loiterers, Vagabonds, and strumpets, that lay all day in the fields, and at Night were harboured there) to the maintenance of these houses: which Lands were of the yearly value of six hundred pounds, and he gave 4000 Marks beside, of Lands taken in Mortmain, so yearly valued. This worthy young King reigned six years, five months, and eight days, and was buried at Westminster. 1553 Marry, eldest daughter to King Henry the eight, and Sister to King Edward, succeeded after her Brother. She married with the Prince of Spain, who was afterward king, and reigning 5. years, five months, and ten days, was buried at Westminster. 1558 Elizabeth, second Daughter to king Henry the eight, and Sister also to king Edward, came next to her right in the Crown of England. To write of the Princely life and reign of that Virgin Empress, and matchless Queen, would require large Volumes, yet all too little for her high deserving merit. Having lived (well near) threescore and ten years, and happily reigned 44. years, 4. months, and odd days: she died the 24 of March, 1602. & was buried at Westm. The lines engraven on her Tomb, may serve for her further memory. A Sacrifice to Posterity. Having restored Religion to the Primitive sincerity, established Peace, reduced coin to the just value, revenged Domestical rebellion, succoured France, grieved by civil war, supported Belgia, overcome the Spanish invincible Navy, pacified Ireland, by driving out the Spaniards, and compelling the Rebels to yield to her pardon, increased very much the Revennewes of both Universities, by a Law for their provision of Victual, enriched all England, & administering most prudently the Imperial state thereof 45. years in true piety, in the seventy year of her age (in most happy & peaceable manner departed this life) leaving here her mortal parts, interred in this famous and renowned Church (by her conserved) till by the command of Christ, they rise again immortal. james, king of England, Scotland, France, 1602 and Ireland, first Monarch of the whole Islands or Country, was proclaimed king the 24. of March, 1602. being the only inheritor to k. Henry the seventh, and Elizabeth his Queen, issuing from Lady Margaret, eldest Daughter to them both. In whose happy marriage, ended the long civil dissensions, of the two divided families of York and Lancaster: And by his most rightful succession, in the divided kingdoms of England and Scotland, hath united them in one sole Monarchy of Great Britain. Long may he reign, to God's glory, and comfort of his Kingdoms. ¶ A brief Catalogue of the Princes of Wales, from the time that King Edward the first had conquered Wales, to this instant. 1. EDward, borne at Caernaruon, & therefore called Edward of Caernaruon, being Son to king Edward of England, first of that name, was the first Prince of Wales of the English blood, after the death of Prince Lhewelyn, and came to Chester, in the 29. year of his father's reign, where he received the homage of the fréeholders' of Wales. 2 Edward of Windsor, being elder son to king Edward the second, in the 15. year of his father's reign, was created Prince of Wales, and Duke of Aquitaine, in a Parliament holden at York. 3 Edward borne at Woodstock, & son and heir to king Edward the third, in the 17. year of his Father's reign, was created Prince of Wales at London. This Prince was surnamed the Black Prince, he took john the French King prisoner, and died in the 46. year of his age, his father yet living. 4 Richard, son to Edward the Black Prince, was created Prince of Wales at Hauering in the Bower, in the fifty year, of king Edward the 3. his Grandfather, and was afterward king of England, by the name of king Richard the second. 5 Henry of Monmouth, son and heir to king Henry the fourth, was in the first year of his father's reign, created Prince of Wales at Westminster. 6 Edward of Westminster, son and heir to king Henry the sixth, in the 31. year of his Father's reign, was created Prince of wales, and Earl of Chester, at westminster. 7 Edward, eldest son of king Edward the 4. borne in the Sanctuary at Westminster, in the 11. year of his Father's reign, was created Prince of Wales, and Earl of Chester at London. He was afterward king of England, by the name of Edward the fifth, but never crowned, because both he and his Brother were made away, by the treachery of their Uncle Richard, Duke of Gloucester, that usurped the Crown. 8 Edward, the only Son of king Richard the third, being a child of ten years old, in the first year of the said kings reign, was created prince of wales at London. 9 Arthur, son and heir to king Henry the seventh, in the fifth year of his Father's reign, was created Prince of wales at London: & dying at Ludlow Castle, in the 17. year of his father's reign, was buried with great Funeral solemnity at Worcester. 10 Henry, Duke of York, son to King Henry the seventh, and Brother unto Prince Arthur, was after the said Princes death, in the ninetéenth year of his Father's reign, created Prince of Wales: and was afterward King of England, by the name of King Henry the 8. In the 26. year of his reign, the Principality and Country of Wales, was (by Parliament) incorporated and united unto the Kingdom of England, and all the Inhabitants thereof made equal in freedoms, liberties, rights, privileges, laws, and in all other respects, to the natural subjects of England. 11 Edward, son to King Henry the eight, and borne at Hampton Court, the Principality of Wales, being incorporated (as hath been said) to the Crown and kingdom of England, was no otherwise Prince of Wales, then under the general Title of England, as the King his Father was king of England, Prince of Wales by general title and (under the name) king of Wales, as it being a member of England. Nor do I read of any other creation or investure, that he had in that Principality. He was King after his Father, by the name of K. Edward 6. 1. Princess of Wales. 1 Marry, Daughter to King Henry the eight by the Princess Katherine Dowager, Widow of Prince Arthur, was Princess of Wales. 2. Princess of Wales. 2 Elizabeth, Daughter also to King Henry t●e eight, was in a Parliament, in the 25. year of her Father's reign, declared Princess and Inheretrix of the crown of England, with all dominions to the same belonging; and therefore was (as her Sister) Princess of Wales. All these forenamed Princes of Wales, were created (solemnly) by and in Court of Parliament, except three, which were Richard the second, Edward the fift, and Edward, Son to Richard the third. Those that were created out of Parliament, were Princes, whose fortunes proved hard and disastrous: For Richard the second was deposed, and after murdered; Edward the fifth was also murdered in the Tower of London; and Edward, son to Richard the third, died within three months after, as a just judgement of God, for his Father's wickedness. 12. Henry, son and heir to our dread Sovereign King. james, in the eight year of his Father's reign over England, Prince of Wales by creation. etc. was created in the Court of Parliament at Westminster, Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall and Rothsay, Earl of Chester, and Knight of the most Noble Order of the Garter: The strong arm of Heaven be his continual keeper and defender. Brief Observations, not unfitly annexed to this our short Summary of England. ¶ Of bishopric, and their circuits. jurisdiction of Canterb. CAnterbury erected first by Augustine the Monk, in the time of Ethelbert, king of Kent, by provincial regiment, reacheth over all the South and west parts of this Land, and Ireland also, and there are few shires, wherein the archbishop hath not some peculiets. But in itself, as (from the beginning) was, and is proper to the See. It extendeth but over one parcel of Kent, which Rudburne calleth Cantwarland, the jurisdiction of Rochester including the rest: so that in this one County, both the greatest archbishopric, and least Bishopric are united together. Canterbury hath under it one archdeaconry, that hath jurisdiction over 11. Deaneries, or 161. Parish Churches. In time of popery, vndername of first fruits, it paid to Rome (at every alienation) 10000 Ducats or Florins, beside 5000. which the new elect did usually pay for his pall, each ducat being then worth an English Crown. jurisdiction of Rochester. Rochester, included within the limits of Kent, was erected also by Augustine, in the reign of Ceolrijc, over the westsaxons. It hath one Archdeacon, whose government in spiritual causes, ruleth 3. Deaneries, or 132. parish Churches, whereby appeareth, that in Kent are 393. parish churches, whereof the said two archdeacons have cure and charge. It paid to Rome at the bishop's admission, 1300. Ducats or Florins. London was erected at first by king Lucius, jurisdiction of London who made it an Archbishops See (as in due place hath already been remembered) and so it continued till Augustine translated that title to Canterbury. It includeth Essex, Middlesex, and part of Hertfordshire, containing (in quantity) the ancient Kingdom of the East- Angles, before it was united to the Westsaxons. It hath four archdeaconry, (viz.) London, Essex, Middlesex and Colchester, that have under them 363. parish Churches, beside peculiars. The Archdeaconry of S. Albans, was added thereto by king Henry the eight, which hath also 25. parishes, whereof four are in Buckingham, the rest in Hertfordshire. It paid to Rome, three thousand Florins. Chichester began in the Isle of Seals or Seolsie, jurisdiction of Chichester. and was translated to Chichester in the time of William the Conqueror, when general remove of Sees was made, from small Villages to greater Towns. It hath Sussex only under jurisdiction, wherein are 16. Deaneries, and 551 parish Churches: and paid to Rome (at every alienation) 333. Ducats. Winchester, was given to Biri●us, jurisdiction of winchest. & his successors, by Kinigils & Oswald, of the Northumber's, in whose time it was erected. It Governeth Hampshire, Surrie, jardseie, Gardeseie, and the Isle of Wight; containing eight deaneries, 276. Parish-Churches, beside perpetual Prelary of the Honourable Order of the Garter. It paid to Rome 12000. Ducats or Florins. jurisdiction of Salisbury Salisbury was made chief See of Shirbourne, by Bishop Harman (Predecessor to Osmond) who brought it from Shirbourne to that City. It governeth Berkshire, Wiltshire, and Dorsetshire. It paid to Rome 4000 florence. jurisdiction of Excester. Excester hath Devonshire and Cornwall, sometimes two several Bishoprics, but (in the end) brought into one of Cornwall, and from thence to Excester, in the time of King William the Conqueror. It paid to Rome at every alienation, six thousand Ducats or Florins. jurisdiction of Bath. Bath, the See whereof was sometime at Wells, before john (the bishop there) annexed the church of Bath unto it, which was in An. 1094. it hath Somersetshire only, and it paid to the Court of Rome, 430. florence. jurisdiction of Worcester. Worcester, hath Worcestershire, and part of Warwickshire; Before the Bishopric of Gloucester was taken from it, it paid to the Pope two thousand Ducats of Gold, at change of every Prelate. It began in the time of Offa, King of the East- Angles. jurisdiction of Gloster. Gloucester hath Glocestershire only, wherein are nine Deaneries, and 294. Parish-Churches. It never paid any thing to Rome, because it was erected by King Henry the eight, when he had abolished the Pope's usurped authority. jurisdiction of Hereford Hereford, hath Herefordshire, and part of Shropshire. It paid to Rome at every alienation 1800. Ducats. Lichfielde, had Coventry added to it, jurisdiction of Lichfield in the reign of King Henry the first, at the earnest suit of Robert, Bishop of that See: It hath Staffordshire, Darbishire, part of Shropshire, and the rest of Warwickshire, void of subjection to the See of Worcester. It was erected in the time of Penda, King of the South- Mercians: And paid to the Pope three thousand Florins, at every alienation. Oxford, hath Oxfordshire only, jurisdiction of Oxford. & never paid any taxation to Rome, being erected by K. Henry the eight. Elie, hath Cambridgeshire, and the Isle of Elie, being at first a wealthy Abbey; jurisdiction of Elie. it was erected by King Henry the first, in Anno 1109. It paid to the Pope at every alienation, 7000. Ducats. Norwich, jurisdiction of Norwich called in elder times Episcopatus Donnicensis, Dononiae, or Aestanglorum, was first erected at Felstow, or Felixstow; afterward removed to Donwich; thence to Helmham; next to Theodford, or Thetford; and lastly (in the conquerors time) to Norwich. It containeth Norfolk and Suffolk only, but (at first) included Cambridgeshire also, and so much as lay within the Kingdom of the East- Angles. It began under Cerpenwald, King of the Eastsaxons; and paid to Rome 5000. Ducats. It contained sometime 1563. Parish-Churches, beside 88 religious Houses; but now we hear of no more than 1200. jurisdiction of Peterborow. Peterborow, sometimes a notable Monastery, hath Northampton and Rutlandshires, being a Diocese erected likewise by King Henry the eight, and never paid first Fruits to the Pope. jurisdiction of Bristol. Bristol, hath Dorsetshire, sometime belonging to Salisbury: a See also erected by king Henry the eight. jurisdiction of Lincoln. Lincoln, of all other (of late times) was the greatest, and albeit that (out of it) were taken the Sees of Oxford and Peterborow; yet it still retaineth Lincoln, Leicester, Huntingdon, Bedford, Buckingham shires, and the rest of Hertfordshire, extending itself from Thames to Humber. It paid to the Pope at every alienation, 5000. Ducats: and began in the time of King William Rufus. Thus much of the bishoprics in Lhoegres or England, as it was left to Locrine; now go we to Wales. jurisdiction of Landaffe. Landaffe, or the Church of Taw, hath Ecclesiastical jurisdiction in Glamorgan, Monmouth, Brechnoch, and Radnor shires, and paid 700. Ducats to Rome, at every exchange of Prelate. But it was a poor answer (upon call) of the incumbent, in Court before the Lord Precedent, when he said: The Daffe is here, but the Land is gone. jurisdiction of S. David's S. David's, hath Pembroke and Caermardineshires, whose livery and first fruits to the See of Rome, was 1500. Ducats. jurisdiction of Bangor. Bangor is in North-wales, and hath Caernaruon, Angleseie, and Merioneth shires: and paid to Rome, 126. Ducats. S. Asaphes, hath Prestholme, jurisdiction of Saint Asaphes. and part of Denbigh, and Flint Shires, in ecclesiastical jurisdiction, and is the least in circuit in Wales, amounting (in all) not to one good County; yet it paid to Rome at every alienation, 470. Ducats. Hitherto of the Province of Canterbury, for so much thereof as now lieth within compass of this Island. The Archbishops See of York was restored about the year of Grace 625. in the time of Eadwin, king of Northumberland, York & her jurisdiction. Paulinus sitting as first bishop there, by ordination of justus Archbishop of Canterbury. It hath jurisdiction over Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, and the rest of Lancashire (not subject to the See of Chester.) It paid to Rome 1000 Ducats, beside 5000. for the pall of the new elect. Chester upon Dee, jurisdiction of Chester. otherwise called Westchester, hath Chestershire, Darbishire, the most part of Lancashire, even to the Ribell, Richmond, & a part of Flint and Denbighshires in Wales. It was made a bishopric by Henry the eight, An. regni 33. july 16. Durham, hath the County of Durham, jurisdiction of Durham. & Northumberland, with the Dales; the Bishops have been (sometimes) Earls Palantines, ruling under name and succession of Saint Cuthbert. It paid to Rome 9000. Ducats, at every alienation. Caerleill, jurisdiction of Caerleill. was erected Anno 1132. by king Henry the first, and hath Cumberland & Westmoreland in rule. It paid to the Pope a thousand Florins. Bish. of Man There is another Bishopric, called the See of Mona, or Man, sometime named Episcopatus Sodorensis, whereof one Wimundus was ordained the first Bishop, and john the second, in the troublesome time of king Stephen. But the gift of this Prelacy is said to rest in the Earls of Derby, to nominate thereto (from time to time) such as they deem convenient. ¶ Of the Colleges in Cambridge and Oxford and their Founders. In Cambridge. Years of the foundations Colleges. by Founders. 1546 1. Trinity College. by King Henry the 8. King Henry the sixth, 1441 2. The Kings Col. by Edward the fourth, Henry the 7. Hen. 8. 1511 3. Saint john's. by L. Margaret, grandmother to Henry 8. 1505 4. Christ's College. by K Hen. 6. and Lady Marg. before named. 1446 5. The queens col. by Lady Margaret, wife to Henry the sixth. 1496 6. jesus College. by john Alcock, bishop of Elie. 1342 7. Bennet College. by The Brethren of a Guild, called Cor. Chr. 1343 8 Pembroke Hall. by Maria de Valencia, Countess of Pembr. 9 Peter College. by Hugh Balsham, 1256 bishop of Elie. 10. Gundeuill, and Caius College. by Edmund Gundevil, 1348 Parson of Tertington, and john Caius, Doctor of Physic. 11. Trinity Hall. by William Bateman, 1354 bishop of Norwich. 12. Clare Hall. by Rich. Badow, 1326 chancellor of Cambridg. 13. Katherine Hall. by Robert Woodlark, 1459 Doctor of divinity. 14. Magdalen Colle. by Edward D. of Buck, 1519 and Tho. L. Audley. 15. Emanuel Colle. by Sir Walter Mildmay, etc. 1585. In Oxford. 1. Christ's Church. 1539 by King Henry the eight. 2. Magdalen college by Wil Wainfleet, 1459 first fellow of Merton College, than scholar of Winchester, and afterward Bishop there. 3. New College. by Wil Wickham. 1375. Bishop of Winchester. 4. Merton college. by Walter Merton, 1276 Bishop of Rochester. 5. All Souls College. by Hen. Chichelie, 1437 Arch bishop of Canterbury 6. Corpus Christi College. by Richard Fox, 1516 Bishop of Winchester. 7. Lincoln college. by Richard Fleming, 1430 bishop of Lincoln. 1323 8. Auriell College. by Abraham Browne, Almoner to K. Ed. 2. 1340 9 queens college. by R. Eglesfield, Chaplain to Philip, Queen and Wife to King Edward the third. 1263 10. Balliol College by john Balliol, king of Scotland. 1557 11. Saint john's college. by Sir Thomas White, Lord Mayor of London. 1556 12. Trinity College by Sir Thomas Pope Knight. 1316 13. Excester college by Walter Stapleton, bishop of Excester. 1517 14. Brazen-nose. by William Smith, Bishop of Lincoln. 873 15. University Col. by William Archdeacon of Du●esme. 16. Gloucester College. by john Gifford, who made it a Cell for 13 Monks. 17. jesus College. by Hugh ap Rice, Doctor of the Civill-law. Hostels or Hals in Oxford. Broade-gates. heart Hall. Magdalen Hall. Alburne Hall. Postminster Hall. Saint Mary Hall. White Hall. New Inn. Edmund Hall. ¶ The Names of the Shires in England and Wales. THE first ten Shires do lie between the British Sea, and the Thames, according to Polydore. Kent. Sussex. Surrey. Hampshire. Berkshire. Wiltshire. Dorsetshire. Sommersetshire. Devonshire. Cornwall. On the northside of the Thames, between it and Trent, which passeth through the midst of England, are 16. other Shires, six toward the East, and the other toward the west. Essex, sometime all Forest, save one hundred. Middlesex. Hertfordshire. Suffolk. Norfolk. Cambridgeshire, wherein are twelve hundreds. Bedfordshire. Huntingdon, wherein are four hundreds. Buckingham. Oxford. Northampton. Rutland. Leicestershire. Nottinghamshire. Warwickshire. Lincolnshire. There are six also westward, toward Wales. Gloucester. Hereford. Worcester. Shropshire. Stafford. Chestershire. These are the 32. Shires, which lie by South of the River Trent; beyond which River, there are other eight. Derby. York. Lancaster. Cumberland. Westmoreland. Richmond, wherein are five Wapentakes; And when it is accounted as a parcel of Yorkshire (out of which it is taken) then is it reputed for the whole Riding. Durham. Northumberland. So that in the portion sometime called Lhoegria, there are now forty Shires. In Wales also there be thirteen, whereof seven are in South Wales. Cardigan, or Cereticon. Penmoroke, or Penbroke. Caermardin, wherein are nine hundreds or Commots'. Glamorgan. Monmouth. Brecknock. Radnor. In North-wales likewise are six. Anglescie. Caernaruon. Merioneth. Denbigh. Flint. Montgomerie. Which being added to those of England, do make up 53. Shires or Counties. ¶ A Brief Collection, of the Original, Antiquity, Increase and Modern estate of the honourable City of London. To the Worshipful, M. Cornelius Fish, Esquire, and Chamberlain of the said most famous City. COncerning the name of this ancient and worthy City, The names by divers given to London. by divers Authors it hath been (as diversly) descanted on: Tacitus, Ptolomeus, and Antoninus called it Londinium and Longidinium: Amianus Marcellinus termed it Lundinum and Augusta: Stephen (in his Cities) calleth it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉: our Britain's, Lundayn: the old Saxons, Londonceaster, or Londonbeig; Strangers, Londra and Londres; and the Inhabitants, London. By other writers (whom some judge fabulous) it hath been called Troia-nova, or Troynovant, New Troy, according to the Name that Brute (first founder thereof) gave it: Dinas Belin, Belin's City; & Caer-Lud, or Luds-Towne, of King Lud: who not only re-edified, but also gave it that name. Erasmus derived it from Lindum, a City in the Isle of Rhodes: and so (by variety of judgements) it hath run into the like variety of names. In which strange stream of opinion, how a man may best carry himself, without impeach to any, is, freely to leave each man master of his own conjecture: whether London's true name took original from any of these forementioned, or whether Woods and Groves (being named in the British tongue L'lhwn) London should receive her title, by way of excellency, Caesar and Strabo, alleged by M. Camden and be called, The City, or A City thick of Trees, because the Britain's called those woods and Groves by the names of Cities & Towns, which they had fenced with trees cast down and plashed, to stop up all passage. London burnt by the Danes. But leaving the name, we find that London was burnt and destroyed (how fair soever it was built before) by the Danes, and other Pagan enemies, about the year of Christ, 839. but afterward, in the year, 886. Alfred, King of the westsaxons, both restored, repaired, and made it honourably habitable: giving the charge and keeping thereof, to his Son in Law Ethelred, Earl of the Mercians, with whom he had formerly married his Daughter Ethelfleda. That it was strongly defenced with walls, I read, that the Londoners did shut up their gates, and manfully withstood the Danes, Wil Malinsbury. preserving their king Ethelred within their walls; this was in Anno Christi, 994. Also in Anno 1016. when Edmund Ironside governed the West-Saxons, Canutus the Dane brought his Fleet to the West part of the bridge, and threw a trench about the City, as hoping by assault to win it: but the Citizens repulsed him, and drove him from their walls. Those walls were (from time to time) well maintained & repaired: Maintenance of the walls. with stones from the jews broken houses, in King john's iime, 1215. when the Barons (entering by Ealdgate, or Aldgate) broke their houses down. And in K. Henry's time the third, when the walls and gates were repaired (in more seemly wise then before) at the common charge of the City. The circuit of London wall on the lands side, is measured thus. From the Tower of London in the East, London wall in circuit. to Ealdgate, commonly called Aldgate, 82. perches. From Algate to Byshopsgate, 86. perches: From Byshopsgate in the North, to the Postern of Criplesgate, 162. perches. From Criplesgate to Ealdersgate, or Eldrich gate, 75. perches. From Ealdersgate to Newgate, 66. perches. From Newgate in the West, to Ludgate, 42. perches, amounting in all to 513. perches of Assize. From Ludgate to the Fleet Dike, 60. perches. From Fleet-bridge South, to the River of Thames, about 70. perches. Which perches (in complete number) rise to 643. each perch containing five yards and an half: which in yards do amount to 3536. & an half, containing 10608. foot, that make up two English miles, & more by 608. foot. There were but four Gates (at first) made in the wall of this City, viz: Aldgate, Eastward; Four Gates & no more in elder time. Aldersgate, Northward; Ludgate, Westward; and the Bridge-gate (over Thames) southward. But other Gates and Posterns (for ease and conveniency of passage) were afterward made, as men's affairs required to other quarters of the City. The Postern gate by the Tower. A Postern gate was sometime near to the Tower of London, which decaying by length of time, and a deep Ditch made without the wall, it fell down in the year, 1440. the eighteenth of King Henry the sixth, and was never after built again: but a plain Cottage of Timber, Lath, and loam, with a narrow passage, being erected instead thereof, it so continueth. Aldgate. Aldgate was next in the East, so named by the antiquity thereof: for it was so called in king Edgar's time: and the Soak or Franchise (with the Port of Aldgate, and all customs thereto appertaining) were likewise given by Matilda (Q. to Henry the first) to the Prior of the B. Trinity, within Aldgate (and by her founded) in as ample and free manner as she enjoyed them. Bishopsgate The third was Bishopsgate toward the North, built by some Bishop of London, as is imagined, for other certainty is not as yet found, which Gate did much ease to such as travailed East, and by North, as to Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, etc. because before the erection thereof, such as journeyed out at Aldgate, of necessity held on to the miles end, and turning them on the left hand to Blethon-hall, now Bednal-Greene, r●de directly to Cambridge Heath, and so took their journeys North, or East, and by North, or occasion required. Otherwise, refusing Aldgate way, they had no other help then out at Aldersgate, through Aldersgate street, and Goswell street, now termed Pickt-hatch, towards Iseldon, and by a Cross of stone on their right hand, set up for a mark by the North end of Golding-lane; passed through a long street (yet called Ald-streete, or Old-street) to another Cross by Sewers ditch Church, where now stands a smith's Forge, and there they turned again North-wards, to Tottenham, Enfield, waltham, ware, etc. This Bishopsgate, The Easterlings. the Dutch Merchants of the Haunce, Stiliard, or Guildhalla Tentonicorum, were bound by covenant, both to repair and defend, at all times of danger and extremity. The fourth, was a Postern, now called Mooregate, which one Thomas Falconer, Mooregate. Mayor of London, An. 1413. and third of Henry the fifth, caused to be made there on the Moors side, where never Gate was before: that people might pass upon cause-ways into the field for recreation, because the field was then a marish. The fifth Gate was the Postern of Criplesgate, Criplesgate. so called long before the Conquest, in regard of Cripples begging there: and the body of S. Edmond the Martyr was brought into London thereat, when it was conveyed from Bedrisworth (now called Bury S. Edmunds) through the East Saxons Kingdom, to the parish church of S. Gregory, near to the Cathedral church of S. Paul, where it rested 3. days. This postern of Cripplesgate, was a prison of commitment for Citizens and others, being arrested for debt or common trespasses, as now the Compters are: Fabians manuscript. & it was new builded by the Brewers of London, An. 1244. But in An. 1483. Edmund Shaa, or Shaw, Goldsmith and Mayor of London, gave 400. Marks by his will, and stuff of the Old gate, to build it again new, as now it is, which his executors performed in the year, 1491. The sixth was Aldresgate, or Aldersgate, not Aldrich, Aldersgate. Elders or Elderngate, as derived from ancient men that builded it, or trees there sometime growing: but from antiquity of the gate itself, being one of the four that were first builded, and to serve the North-parts, as Aldgate did for the East, both bearing the name of Aldgate, and Alder or Aldersgate, to differ their seniority in building. The 7. was a Postern gate made in the 6. year of Edw. the 6. in the Wall of the dissolved cloister of Grey F●iers, now called Christ's Church and Hospital, Christ's hospital postem serving for passage to S. Bartholomew's in Smithfield. The 8. west and by North, was called Newgate, because it was later builded than the rest, Newgate. by reason that S. Paul's Church being burned in the Conqueror's time, about the year 1086. Mauritius, than bish. of London, not repairing the old church, but seeking to begin another, extended the work in such largeness of ground, that all passage from Aldgate in the East to Ludgate in the west, was almost stopped up. Whereupon this gate was first devised and made, and so named: serving aptly for passage & carriages, from Aldgate, along Cornhill, through West-cheap, & S. Nicholas Shambles, and the Market taking name of Newgate, to any Westward part over Oldborne bridge; or turning (without the gate) into Smithfield, to Iseldon. or any part North & by west. It hath been a jail or prison for sellons & other offenders long time, as the records in K. john's time testifieth. And in an. 1422. the first of Henry 6. the executors to Richard Whittington had licence to re-edify the said gate, Ludgate. which they did with his goods. The 8. gate was Ludgate in the west, builded by k. Lud, before Christ's nativity, 66. years, serving for the west, as Aldgate for the East, & was repaired with the stones of the jews defaced houses, when the Barons were in arms in k. john's time, as Aldgate & the other gates than were. A notable testimony to confirm this assertion, appeared in the year 158●. when the gate was taken down to be new builded, for a stone was then found in the wall, which had been taken from one of those jews houses, with this Inscription thereon (but in Hebrew Characters) Haec est statio Rabbi Moses, filii insignis Rabbi Isaac: This is the station or ward of Rabbi Moses, son of the honourable Rabbi Isaac. And it seemed to have been fixed in the front of some one of the jews houses, as a note or sign, that such a one dwelled there. It was made a free prison in the 1. year of K. Richard 2. Nicholas Brembar being then mayor, & after confirmed (in the time of john Northampton Maior 1382) by a common Counsel in the Guildhall, the freemen of the City, for debt, trepasses, Ludgate made a free prison. accounts & contempts, should be imprisoned in Ludgate, & for treasons, felonies, murders, and other criminal offences, Newgate should be the prison. Lastly, there is also a breach in the City Wall, and a Bridge made of Timber over the Fleet Dike, betwixt Fleetebridge and Thames, directly over against the House of Bridewell, but it is not as (as I think) called any Gate. The South side of London. Now concerning the Southside of the City, and that it was sometime walled too, the City being then round engirt with a Wal: the Testimony of William Fitz-Stephen (who wrote in the reign of King Henry the second) may serve to approve it, William Fitz Stephen his words. for these are his very words. The Wall is high and great, well towered on the northside, with due distances between the Towers. On the Southside also, the City was walled and towered: but the Fishfull River of Thames, with his ebbing and flowing, hath long since subverted them. If then we shall speak of Water-Gates, Water gates as already we have done of Land-gates, and, being now in the west, return towards the East; the first than was called Ripa Reginae, the Queens-banck, or Queen's Heath, Queenes-Hith. deserving well to be esteemed a Water-Gate, and the very chief of the City, being a common Strand or landing place, equal with, and (in old time) far excelling Belines-Gate. For, beside the antiquity thereof, and to whom, (in those days) it severally appertained; I find that King Henry the third, in the ninth of his reign, commanded the Constables of the Tower of London, to arrest the Ships of the Cinque-Portes on the River of Thames, The Stilyard, or Guilda-Halla Teutonicorum. and compel them to bring their Corn and Fish to no other place, but to the Queenes-Hith only. And when corn arrived between the Gate of Guildehall, of the Merchants of Colleyne, and the Soak of the Archbishop of Canterbury (for he had then a House near to the Blackfriars) it was not to be measured by any other quarter, then that of the Queens Soak or Heath, on pain of forty shillings amercement. Afterward, Queenes-Hith, and the Farm thereof (granted by Richard Earl of Cornwall) was by the said King Henry the third, confirmed to john guysor's then Mayor, the Commonalty of London, and their Successors for ever (as appeareth by his royal Charter) for the sum of fifty pounds. It was also ordained by King Edward the fourth, that all Ships, Vessels, or Boats, bringing provision of Victual to the City (of what quality soever) if but one Vessel only: it came to the Queenes-Hith; if two, the one to Quéenes-Hithe, the other to Belins-gate; if three, The order for the cities provision, at Belin's gate, and Queenes-hithe. two to Quéenes-Hithe, the third to Belins-gate, etc. so that (always) the more part came to Quéenes-Hithe. But if the Vessel were so great, coming with Salt or otherwise, from the Bay, and could not conveniently come to these Gates or Keys; it was then to be conveyed to them, (as aforesaid) by Lighters. Downegate is the next, Downegate. and was so named (as is supposed) by reason of the ways sudden descent or stooping, from Saint john's Church in Walbroke, to the River of Thames. It was sometime a large Water-gate, frequented with Ships and vessels, like to the Queenes-Hithe; and appeared (by an Inquisition, in the twenty eight year of Henry the third) to be a part thereof, being ordered by the customs thereto belonging. Wolfesgate Wolfesgate, now out of use; one part being builded on by the Earl of Shrewsbury, the other by the Chamberlain of London, and now called Cold-Harbor. Ebgate. Ebgate, so called of old time: but now it is a narrow passage to the Thames, called Ebgate-lane, or old Swan. Oystergate Oystergate, so called of Oysters usually there sold, as chiefest market for them, and other shellfish. There now stands the water-engine, that serves the City with water, made in the year 1582. by Peter Moris, Dutchman. Bridge-gate. Bridge-gate, so called of London Bridge, whereon it standeth, being one of the cities first four and principal Gates, and long before the Conquest, when there (then) stood a bridge of Timber. Buttolphs-gate. Buttolphs-gate, so called of the Parish-church of S. Buttolph near adjoining: which Gate was sometime given, and confirmed by William the Conqueror, to the Monks of Westminster, by virtue of a former gift, which Almundus (of the Port of S. Buttolph) gave them, when he was there made Monk. Belins-gate. Belins-gate, or Belingsgat, the largest water-gate now on the Thames, and most frequented. Belin, a King of the Britons (according to Geffrey of Monmouth) first built it, and gave it his own name, about 400. years before Christ's Nativity. There are two Water-gates more, Two water gates. one on the westside of Wooll-wharffe, or Customers Key, beautifully enlarged and built of late: This gate is commonly called the Water-Gate, at South end of Water-lane. The other, by the Tower Bulwark, and is the last and turthest Water-gate Eastward. Beside these common Water-gates, there were then divers private wharffes & Keys, all along from East to West of the City, on the bank of the River of Thames. Before we part further from this famous river, London-bridge. let us here remember Londonbridge over it, which, before there was any bridge at all, or it a bridge of timber, there was a Ferry kept in the same place, & no other passage was there then to Southwark, but by the Ferry only. The Ferryman and his Wife dying, left this Ferry to their only daughter, named Mary; who (with her Parents goods left her, & the profits arising from the Ferry) built a house of Sisters, S. Marry Oueries. where the East part of S. Mary Oueries Church (above the Quire) now standeth, and where she herself was buried; giving them also the over sight & benefits of the ferry. Afterward this house of Sisters (being converted to a College of Priests) the Priests builded the Bridge of timber, and kept it in good reparations, London-bridge of Timber. till the continual charges growing over-burthenous, about the year 1176. the course of the River being then turned another way, for a time, by a trench purposely devised (beginning about Rodriffe, or Redriffe in the East, and ending above Patrickseie, or Batersey in the west) the Bridge of stone began to be founded, and continued 33. years in building. London bridge of Timber burnt. The Bridge of timber, in the year 1136. was burnt down by fire, but in An. 1163. it was not only repaired, but new made of Timber again, by one Peter of Colechurch, Priest and Chaplain: who also began the foundation of the Stone-bridge, somewhat near to the Timber-bridge, and lived till within four years of the works ending, being buried in a Chapel erected on the Bridge: But the whole bridge of stone, was finished by the worthy Merchants of London, Settle Mercer, Wil Almain, & Benedict Botewrite, principal Masters of that work. Other bridges of stone, also belonging to the City, Fleetbridge as Fleetbridge without Ludgate, made at the charges of john Wells, Mayor, Anno. 1431. Oldborne-bridge, Oldbourne bridge. so called of a Bourne, which sometime ran down Oldborne. Cowbridge, by Cow-bridge-street, Cowbridge or Cow-lane; which being decayed, another of timber was made by Chick-lane. Beside, there were other Bridges over the Town-ditch, as without Aldgate, Bishopsgate, Mooregate, Cripples-gate, Aldersgate, the Postern of Christ's Hospital, Newgate, and Ludgate, all paved over with stone, and leveled with the streets: beside divers bridges (in elder times) over the course of Walbrooke. While we are thus speaking of Water and Bridges, belonging to the City, here I think it most convenient also, to say somewhat concerning the Conduits, Of the Conduits. and swéete-waters conveyed to them by Pipes of Lead. The first Cistern whereof (castellated with Stone in the City of London) was called the great Conduit in West-cheap, 〈…〉 which was begun to be builded in the year 1285. Henry Wales, then being Mayor. 〈…〉 The Ton upon Cornhill, was cesterned in Anno. 1401. john Chadworth then being Mayor. Bosses of water, at Belins-gate; by Paules-wharffe, and by S. Gyles Church without Cripples-gate, were made about the year 1423. Water was brought to the Standard in west Cheap, about the year 1431. The S●●●dard 〈…〉 cheap. And King Henry the sixth, in An. 1442. granted to john Hatharley, Mayor, licence to take up 200. Fodar of Lead, for the building of Conduits; a common Granery, and of a new Cross in Westcheape, for Honour of the City. The Conduit in Aldermanburic, Conduits Alderman bury and Fleestreets. and the Standard in Fleetstreet, were made and finished by the executors of Sir Wil Eastfield, in An. 147●. A Cistern was also added to the Standard in Fleetstreet; a second made at Fléet-bridge; and another without Cripples-gate, in An. 1478. The Conduit in Grasse-street, in An. 1491. The Conduit at Oldbourne Cross, about 1498. and made new again by Master William Lamb, 1577. with an help also at Old-bournebridge. The little Conduit, commonly termed the Pissing-Conduit, by the Stock-market, about 1500. The Conduit at Bishopsgate, 1513. The Conduit at London-wall, 1528. The Conduit without Aldgate, 1535. The Conduit in Lothbury and Colman-street, 1546. The Conduit of Thames-water, at Downegate, 1568. Nor may I hear forget the standard of Thames water by Leadenhall, which being derived from the forcier of water, made by Peter Moris' forenamed, ascending up over the steeple of S. Magnus' Church, at the north end of London bridge, convaieth water into many men's houses in Thames street, New-Fish-streete, Grasse-streete; And so mounteth up still in Pipes, to the Northwest corner of Leadenhall (the highest ground in all the City) where the waist of the main Pipe rising into this standard (provided at the cities charge) at every tide was provided to run forth 4. ways, at four several spouts, for plentiful service of the near adjoining Inhabitants, and cleansing the Channels passing those four several ways. The Conduits of Thames-water, by the Parish-Churches of S. Mary Magdalen, and Saint Nicholas Cold-Abbey, near to old Fishstréete, were made in An. 1583. Beside the water▪ Forcier by London Bridge, before remembered, and another (made since) near to Broken-wharffe, for conveyance of Thames-water into men's Houses, by an English gentleman, named M. Bevis Bulmar, in An. 1594. Nor will we forget the new Conduit, lately built by Aldersgate, & Thames-water also thither conveyed, by an English Gentleman, named Thomas Hayes, in An. 1610. Come we now to the ancient division of this worthy City, which (as Fitz-Stephen, sayeth, The cities division into Wards. four hundred years ago.) This City, even as Rome, is divided into Wards. It hath yearly Sheriffs, instead of Consuls; and hath the dignity of Senators, in aldermans. Those wards, both before, and in the reign of Henry the third, were ●4. in number, 13, lying on the eastside of Walbrooke, and 11. on the West: but those Wards in the west, growing in greatness to exie the other in the East: in Anno 1393. and 2. of Richard the second. Faringdon Ward, (being then one entire ward) was by Parliament divided into two, also termed Faringdon within, Faringdon without, and allowed to have two Aldermen. So the twelve wards were then on the west side of Wa●brooke, and the whole number made 25. wards. The Liberties of the Borough of Southwark, were afterward purchased by the Mayor. Commonalty, and Citizens, and added to London▪ as the 26. ward, 26. wards, 26. Aldermen in An. 1150. whereby the number of Alder-men grew to be 26. But because my purposed brevity, keepeth within the City's bounds only, and not (at this time, till publication of my general Chronicle of London and Middlesex, even so far as the Lord Maior and sheriffs power extendeth) permits me to exceed that compass; I shall now say nothing, either of Southwark, or London's Suburbs. Portsoken ward (so named of the Franchise of Aldgate) was sometime a Guild, Portsoken Ward. and began in King Edgar's time, above 600. years since, being called Knighten Guild, K●hten Guild. of 13. poor knights or Soldiers, that (being favoured by the King and Land, for (service done them) had a parcel of Land granted them on the cities East side, and liberty of a Guild for ever. Provided, that each of them should victoriously accomplish 3. combats; one above ground, one under ground; & the third in the water: Also, at a certain day appointed, they should run with Spears in East Smithfield, against all comers: all which, they worthily performed, and therefore the King called it Knighten Guild. I read but of one parish church in this ward, which is called S. Buttolph without Algate, and a small parish Church, for the Inhabitants of the Close, sometime called S. Trinity, afterward the Minories. This Portsoken Ward hath an Alderman, and his Deputy, sire common Counsellors, four Constables, four Scavenger's eighteen wardmote Enquestmen, and a Beadle. It is sessed at four pound, ten shillings, for the fifteen. To●●●street W●●d. Tower-street ward, is the first ward within London-wall Eastward. In which ward are three parish churches, viz. All-hallows Barking, S. Olaue in Hartstreet, and S. Dunstane in the East, beside S. Peter in the Tower, for the inhabitants there. Also two halls of Companies, viz. Clothworkers Hall, in Mincheon Lane, and Baker's Hall, 〈…〉 in Ha●t or harp Lane. This ward hath an Alderman, and his Deputy; common Counsel, eight: Constables thirteen. Scavenger's, twelve. Wardemote inquest, thirteen, & a Beadle: It is also seized at 26. pounds to the fifteen. Aldgate Ward, taketh name of the Gate. Algate ward In which ward are three parish churches, viz. S. Katherine Christ-Church: Saint * Of a shaft or Maypole higher than the Church Steeple. Andrew Vndershaft, and S. Katherine * Of Colman Haw, a Haw yard or garden. Coleman. Likewise three Hals of Societies or companies: Iremongers Hall, in Fen-Church-streete, Bricklayers Hall, in sprinkle Alley, now called Sugarloaf Alley, of the like sign: and Fletcher's Hall in S. Marystreet. It hath an Alderman and his Deputy, six common Counsellors, nine Scavenger's, eighteen Wardemote Enquestmen, and a Beadle. It is also taxed at five pound to the fifteen. Limestreet ward, so named, Limestreete Ward. Leaden hall of usual making and selling of Lime there in formertimes, as is supposed. In this ward standeth Leadenhall, which, before it was built of stone, appertained to Sir Hugh Nevil Knight, in Anno 1309. Afterward, the famous and mighty man, Sir Simon Eyre, sometime and Upholster, and next a Draper, builded it square of stone, as now it standeth, with a fair and large chapel in the eastside of the Quadrant, on the Porch whereof, was engraven, Dextra Domini exaltavit me; The right hand of the Lord hath exalted me: And on the Northwall in the Church, these words, Honorandus famosus Mercator Simon Eyre, huius operis, etc. The honourable and famous Merchant Simon Eyre, founder of this work, once Mayor of this City, and Citizen and Draper of the same. He builded there also a goodly Granary for corn, and made there an open and free market. It was once intended for a Burse, for assembly of Merchants: but took not effect, the Merchants meeting still in Lombardstreet, ●s before they had done. In this ward, is not any Parish church, but small portions of two parishes, and no hall of any company. It hath an Alderman and his Deputy, four common Counsellors, four Constables, two Scavenger's, sixteen wardemote inquest, and a Beadle. It is sessed at one pound, nineteen shillings, two pence half penny farthing in the fifteen. Bishopsgate Ward. Byshopsgate ward, so named of the gate, supposed to be built by a bishop of London. Within this ward and Liberties of London, standeth the Hospital of S. Marry of Bethlem, founded by Simon Fitz-Mary, Hospital of Bethelem. New church yard. Sheriff of London, Anno. 1246. being an Hospital for distracted people. Also, a goodly churchyard for burial of the dead, enclosed with a wall of brick, performed at the charge of Sir Thomas Roe, Merchant Taylor, and Lord Maior of London. There is likewise a goodly house, Fisher's folly named Fishers-folly by Queen Elizabeth; Cro●by place. and crosby's place, so called by the builder thereof, Sir john Crosby, Grocer and Wool-man. Gresham College. Also Gresham College, builded by Sir Thomas Gresham, Knight, and appointed (by his will) to be a college of Readers (with large stipends allowed them) in Divinity, Law, Physic, Astronomy, Geometry, and Music. In this ward is three parish churches, viz. Saint Buttolphes without Bishopsgate, S. Ethelburge within the Gate, S. Helen's adjoining to the nuns Prior. There was also (sometime) the parish clerk Hall, Leather sellers Hall. and now there is the Leather Sellers Hall, which they have (very lately) to their great cost, new builded. It hath an Alderman, and his two Deputies, one without, and the other within the gate, 6. common Counsellors, 7. Constables, 7. Scavenger's, 13. wardmote inquest, and a Beadle. It is taxed at 13. li. to the Fifteen. Broadstreet ward, took name of a street, Brodestreet ward. called Brodestreet, wherein are divers goodly houses, one that belonged to Sir William Powlet, Lord Treasurer, another to the Earl of Shrewsbury, and a third, wherein (sometime dwelled the Earl of O●enford, near to Sir Thomas Gresham's Alms houses. In this ward are six parish churches, viz. All-hallows by the wall, at the North-end of Brodestreet, S. Peter's the poor, at the South-end, S. Martin's Oteswitch, in Three-needle street, S. Bennet * Of three men so named, founder's thereof Fynk, Saint Bartholomew by the Exchange, and S. Christopher by the Stocks Market. Beside the Friars Augustine's, * Of Fynke the founder. which serveth for the Dutch nation, and another church serving in like manner for the French. There is also a free School called S. Anthony's school, and two hals of societies: S Anthony's school. Draper's hall one in Throgmorton street, called Draper's hall, which sometime belonged to the Lord Cromwell; the other in Three-needle-streete, Merchant tailors hall. called Merchant Tailors Hall. This ward hath an Aldermon and his deputy, 10. common counsellors, 10 Constables, 8. Scavenger's, 12. wardmote inquest, and a Beadle. It is taxed to the fifteen in London at 27, li. and accounted in the Exchequer after 25. li. Cornhill Ward The Weyhouse. Cornhill ward, derived the name thereof from a corn Market, which had been there kept time out of mind. In this ward is the Weyhouse or King's beam, for all Merchandizes brought from beyond the seas; which house was builded by Sir Thomas Lovel, Knight, and a fair front of Tenements towards the street, which he gave to the worshipful company of Grocers, he being a free Brother of that society. There is also the Burse for Merchants, The Royal Exchange. afterward by Queen Elizabeth named the Royal Exchange, builded by S. Thomas Gresham, knight, Agent to her Majesty, begun in an. 1566. and finished 1567. In this ward likewise is a Grammar School, adjoining to S. Peter's church, S. Peter's school. which in times past, had been a Library, and repaired by the executors of sir john Crosby, Alderman. In Cornhill ward are two parish churches, viz. S. Peter's upon Cornhill, builded in the time of king Lucius, by Thean, the first archbishop of London; And S. Michael Tharchangell, the foundation thereof being uncertain, but William Rus, Alderman, gave a fair bell to this church, Rus Bell in Cornhill. naming it Rus (corruptly called Rouse) to ring out nightly at eight of the clock. No hall of any Society is in this ward, but it hath an Alderman and his Deputy, four commrn counsellors, four constables, four Scavenger's, sixteen wardmote inquest, and a Beadle: It is charged at sixteen pound in the Fifteen. Langborne Warde, Langborne Ward, all fenny about with a Morish ground. bearing name of a long Bourne of sweet water, which (in elder times) breaking forth into Fenchurch street, ran along the same street, and Lombard's street also, called of the Longobards, or Lombard's (merchants there meeting twice a day) to the west end of S. Marry woolnothes church, where turning southward, and breaking into small shares, Rilles, or streams: it gave a name to Shareborn Lane, South-borne Lane, or Shirborne Lane, running thence South into the Thames. In this ward are seven Parish churches, viz. S. Gabriel Fenchurch, corruptly called Fanchurch; Saint Dionis Backchurch, at Lime-street end; All-hallows Standing, or Stane church, or Stone church (by differing from others, then builded of timber) at Martlane end. S. Edmond the king & martyr. in Lombardsstreet, near * Of Birchover the first builder and owner. birchover's lane, now called Birchen lane. All-hallows in Lombardes' street; S. Nicholas Acon or Hacon, in S. Nicholas lane; and S. Mary Woolnoth in Lombardstreet. One Hal there is in this ward, Pewterer's Hall. called Pewterer's Hall, in Limestreet, which society was admitted a brotherhood, in the 13. year of Edward the 4. It hath also an Alderman & his deputy, 8. common counsellors, 15. constables. 9 Scavenger's, 17. wardmote inquest, and a Beadle: In the Exchequer, it is taxed at 20 li. 9 s. d. to the fifteen. Belins-gate Ward. Belin's gate, or Billingsgate ward (so named of Belin the king, first founder of the gate or haven) wherein are many Keys and Wharfes, whereof is not now my purpose to speak, because they are referred to my Chronicle of London at large. In this ward are five parish churches, viz. Saint Buttolph by Billingsgate, in Thames street, S. Marry on the Hill, the street or lane being so called; S. Margaret Pattens (because pattens were usually there made and sold) in Rode lane; S. Andrew Hubbert, in East cheap; and Saint George in Buttolph-lane. It hath also an Alderman and his Deputy, common counsellors uncertain, Constables eleven, Scavenger's six, Wardmote inquest fourteen, and a Beadle. It is taxed in London to the Fifteen, at two & thirty pound, and in the Exchequer, at one and thirty pounnd, ten shillings. Bridgeward Bridgeward within, received name of the famous Bridge of London. In it are four parish churches, viz. S. Magnus, at the Bridge-foot, Saint Margaret in Bridge-street, S. Leonard Milk Church (so named of William Melker, an especially builder thereof) on Fish-street hill, and S. Benet Grasse-church, so termed of the Hearbe-Market there kept. In this ward also, is the Fishmonger's Hall, Fishmonger's Hall. Stock fishmongers. Salt fishmongers. which Society were (sometime) two several companies, called Stock-fishmongers, and Saltfishmongers: and they had six several halls, because their company was so great. It hath an Alderman and his deputy, sixteen common counsellors, fifteen constables, Scavenger's six, sixteen wardmote inquest, and a Beadle. It is taxed at 47. pound to the Fifteen. Candlewick-street Ward, Candlewick street ward. or Candle-wright street Ward, so called (as is likeliest) of Chandler's or maker's of candles, both of wax and Tallow, Weavers of Drapery, Tapery, and Nappery. who seemed (for the more part) there to inhabit. Albeit it is very evident, that Weavers of Drapery, Taperie, and Naperie, did altogether dwell there, time out of mind; till they were outworn, and their place possessed by the Drapers. In this Ward are five Parish churches, (viz.) Saint Clements in Eastcheap, Saint Mary Abchurch, or Vpchurch, Saint Michael in Crookedlane, which was sometime called the college in Crooked-lane, Saint Martin Orgar, and Saint Laurence Poultney, so called by john Poultney, Maior of London, who made it a college of jesus, and of Corpus Christi, for a Master and seven chaplains. This Ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy, eight common counsellors, eight constables, six Scavenger's, twelve Wardemote inquest, and a Beadle. It is taxed at sixteen pound to the fifteen. Walbrooke Warde, Walbrooke Ward. taketh Name of the street, where under was (sometime) a brook, named Wallus Brooke, as hath already been elsewhere declared. In which Ward are five Parish churches, viz. S. Swithen by London-stone, S. Mary Woolchurch, so called of a beam to weigh wool, wool-church Haw or Beam. and was called wool-church Haw; Saint Stephen by Walbrooke; Saint john upon Walbrooke; and Saint Mary Buthaw, or Boathaw, so called, of near adjoining to a Yard or Haw, where Boats (in elder times) were made, and landed (from Downegate) there to be mended. It hath an Alderman and his Deputy; 11. common counsellors; 9 Constables; 6. Scavenger's; 13. Wardmote inquest, and a Beadle. It is taxed in London at 33. pounds to the fifteen. Downegate Ward. Downgate ward, so called, upon the down descending to the Thames. In this ward is the Guilda Aula, Guilda Aula Teutonicorum. or Holla Teutonicorun, for the Merchants of the Haunce, or of Allemaigne, commonly called the Stilyard, where they had their Garners to lay up their Corn, and other commodities; as Cables, Ropes, Masts, Pitch, Tar, Flax, Hemp, linencloth, Wainscots', Wax, Steel, etc. There is also a House, anciently called Cold-Harbrough, Cold Harbour. which (after divers passages from Man to Man) in the eight year of King Edward the third, came to Sir john Poultney, who having been Mayor four times in that house, it than took the name of Poultneys' Inn. More, there is a famous Grammar-Schoole, founded in the year 1561. by the M. Wardens and assistants of the Merchant-Taylors, in the Parish of Saint Laurance Poultney. Merchant tailors school, the Manor of the Rose. Richard Hills, sometime Master of that worthy Society, had given formerly five hundred pounds towards the purchase of an house, called The Manor of the Rose, belonging sometime to the Duke of Buckingham, wherein the said School is kept. In this Ward are two Parish-Churches (Viz:) All-hallows ad foenum, in the Ropery, (because Hay was there sold at Hay-wharffe, and Ropes in the High-stréete) or All-hallows the more; and All-hallows on the Cellars (because it standeth on Vaults) or All-hallows the less. There are likewise four several Hals of Companies, as, Skinner's hall. Tallow-Chandlers Hall. joiners hall Dyers Hall. upon Walbrooke, the Skinner's Hall, belonging to that Worshipful Company; and Tallow-Chandlers Hall; joiners Hall in Greenewich-lane, now called Fryer-lane; and Dyers Hall in Thames-street. This Ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy; 9 common counsellors; 8. Constables; 5. Scavenger's; 14. Wardemote inquest, and a Beadle. It is taxed at 28. pounds to the fifteen. Here we end the thirteen Wards, that are all on the East side of the water course of Walbrooke, not any one house lying on the Westside. ¶ wards on the Westside of Walbrooke. VIntry Ward, Vintry ward. of Vintoners (clad in old time Merchants Vintoners) & the Vintry, for the Merchants of Bordeaux there craned up their Wines, out of Lighters and other Vessels, and being there landed, made Sale of them within forty days after, etc. There are in this Ward, four Parish Churches (viz.) Saint Michael Pater Noster in the Royal, which Church was new builded and made a College of Saint Spirit, whittington's College. and Saint Marie, founded by Richard Whittington, Mercer, four times Mayor; for a Master, four fellows Masters of Art; clerk, Conducts, Chorists, etc. And an alms-house called Gods-house, or Hospital, for thirtéene poor Men, etc. Saint Thomas Apostle, by Wringwren-lane; Saint Martin in the Vinttie, sometime called Saint Martin de Beremand Church; and Saint james at Garlicke-Hithe, because Garlic was sold usually there, on the bank of the River of Thames. Richard Plate, Brewer, founded a Frée-schoole there, Parish Clerks hall. 1601. In Broad lane is the Parish Clerks Hall purchased by them, after loss of their Hall in Byshopsgatestreet. Vintoners' Hall, near the Lane called Stodies Lane, Vintner's hall. Plumber's Hall. Fruiterers Hall. Cutler's hall glaziers hall given them by Sir john Stodie, Vintoner, Mayor, in Anno 1357. Plumber's Hall in Palmer's Lane, now called Anchor-lane. Fruiterer's Hall, in Worcester house, sometimes belonging to the Earls of Worcester. Cutler's Hall, in Horsebridgestreet. glaziers Hall in Kerion Lane: All which Halls are in the said Ward. It hath also an Alderman and his Deputy; nine Common counsellors; nine Constables; four Scavenger's; fourteen Wardmote inquest, and a Beadle: It is taxed at six pounds, thirteen Shillings, four pence, to the fifteen. Cordwainer street ward. Cordwainer-streete-ward, taking name of Cordwainers, or Shoemakers, Curriers, and Workers of Leather, there dwelling. In this Ward are three Parish-churches, viz. Saint Anthony's in Budge-Rowe, corruptly called Saint Antling's; Old Mary Church; and new Marie Church, or Mary le Bow of Saint Marie de Arcubus, in West-Cheaping, being builded (in the conquerors time) upon Arches: Nine a clock Bell is nightly rung. In which Church is kept the Court of the Arches, which here taketh name of the place, & not of the Court. This Ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy; common counsellors eight, Constables, 8. Scavenger's eight, Wardmote inquest fourteen, and a Beadle. It is taxed in London to the fifteen, at 52. li. 16. s. And in the Exchequer at 52. li. 6. s. Cheape-Ward, Cheap ward taking name of the Market there kept, called West-cheaping, hath in it seven Parish Churches, viz. Saint Benet Shrog, or Shorehog, but the most ancient name is Benet shorn, of Benedict shorn, sometime a Citizen and Stocke-Fish-Monger, a new builder, repairer, and Benefactor thereof. S. Pancras by Sopars-lane; Saint Mildred in the Poultry; Saint Marie Colechurch, of one Cole that builded it; Saint Martin Pomerie, in Ironmong-lane, so called of Apples sometime there growing; All-hallows in Honny-Lane; Saint Laurance in the jury, and the Chapel of Guildhall, sometime a College. Guild Hall built, Anno 1411. Gild Hall itself also is in this Ward, begun to be new builded in Anno 1411. the twelfth of Henry the fourth, by Thomas Knoles then Mayor, and the Aldermen his brethren to the charge whereof the companies gave large benevolences: it was made (of a little cottage:) so large and goodly as now it standeth, to have the Courts for the City kept therein, being nine in number. The Courts kept in Guild. Courts for the City. 1. Court of Common Council. 2. Court of the Lord Maior, and the Aldermen his brethren. 3. The Court of Hustings. 4. The Court of Orphans. 5. The Sheriffs two Courts. 6. The Court of the Wardmote. 7. The Court of Hall-mote. 8. The Court of Requests, commonly called the Court of Conscience. 9 The Chamberlains Court for Prentices, and making them free. Moreover, in this Ward, are the Hals of two very worshipful Companies; Grocer's hall the Grocer's Hall in Conyhope lane, which Company being first called Pepperers, were incorporated by the name of Grocers, Mercer's Chapel and Hall. in Anno 1345. The Mercer's Hall, sometime an Hospital, entitled of Saint Thomas of Acon, or Acars, wherein is said a Free-school to have been long kept. This Ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy, 11. common counsellors; 9 Scavenger's; 12. Wardmote inquest, and a Beadle. In London it is sessed at 72, li. 16, s. to the fifteen, and in the Exchequer, at 72. li. 11. s. Colemanstreete-ward, Coleman street ward. taking name of a street so called, by one Coleman, the first builder and owner thereof, wherein are three Parish Churches, viz. Saint Olaue Vpwell in the old jewry, called Colechurch-streete sometimes; Saint Margaret in Lothbury: and Saint Stephen in Colemanstreere. It was named the Old jewry, because the jews had a Synagogue, where now standeth the Tavern, known by the name of the Windmill, Founder's hall. and their dwelling was all thereabout. The Founder's Hall in Lothbury; Lathbery, or Loadberie, so named of a Bery or Court in elder time there kept; whereof some use hath been, and is also made by the Merchant's Adventures: and in Coleman street is the Armourers Hall, Armourers Hall. who were made a Fraternity or Guild of S. George, in the first year of King Henry the sixth. This Ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy; common Counsellors four, Constables four, Scavenger's four, wardmote inquest thirteen, and a Beadle. It is taxed at fifteen pounds, sixetéen shillings nine pence to the fifteen. Bassings Hall Ward, Bassings Hal ward. and said to be so named of Bassinges Hall, the very principal House of the Ward, which appertained to the Family of the Bassings (a name of great renown and antiquity in this Realm) who builded the goodly building (afterward called Bakewell Hall, of one Thomas Bakewel dwelling there, corruptly termed Blackwell Hall) and gave it the Name of Bassings Haugh, Bassinges Haugh. or Hall, as by their Arms, (before the old work was taken down) in very many places appeared. In this Ward is but one Parish Church, called Saint Michael at Bassings Haugh: and divers halls of Companies, Mason's hall weavers hall. as Mason's Hall, of what antiquity, appeareth not. weavers Hall, being then Weavers of Woollen-cloth, whose Fraternity or Guild is of great antiquity and power, confirmed by Charter from King Henry the second, as they held it in time of his Grandfather, Weavers of Woollen Clothes. King Henry the first, or rather (as the very words are) fréeer, better, worshipfullier, and wholier, then in his said grandfathers time. Other ordinances were there then beside, that Woollen-cloathes should be in breadth two yards within the Lists, and as good in the midst, as in the sides, etc. But if any Man made Cloth of Spanish Wool, mixed with English Wool; the Port-grave, or principal Magistrate of London ought to burn it, etc. There is also Girdlers Hall, Girdlers' hall Cooper's Hall. and Cooper's have their Hall near to the Parish Church of Saint Michael. This Ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy, four Common counsellors; two Constables; two Scavenger's; 17. Wardmote inquest, and a a Beadle. In London it is taxed at 7. li. and so in the Exchequer likewise, to the fifteen. Cripples gate Ward. Cripples-gate ward, so named of the gate, called Cripples-gate, wherein are 6. parish churthes, viz. S. Mary Aldermanburic, of a Bery or courthal there kept, now called the Guildhall, s. Alphage (sometime Elfing Hospital or spittle) by London w●l, s. Marry Magdalen in Milkstreet, s. Albon's in woodstreet, s. Michael in Huggenlane, Haberdasher's hall. waxchandlers' hall. plasterer hall. Brewer's hall. Pinner's hall. Bowyers' hall and s. Giles without Cripplesgate. halls of companies, are Haberdasher's Hall, in Maiden lane, and waxchandlers' Hall there also. Pinner's hall sometime, but now plasterer Hall, in Adle street: and Pinner's Hall is now in Siluerstreet. Brewer's Hall likewise in Adlestreete, and Bowyers' Hall not far from Monkswel-street. This ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy within the Gate, eight common counsellors, nine constables, twelve scavengers, fifteen wardmote inquest, and a beadle. Without the Gate also, it hath a Deputy, two common counsellors, four constables, four Scavenger's, seaventeen wardmote inquest, and a Beadle: It is taxed in London at forty pound to the Fifteene. Aldersgate ward, Aldersgate Ward taking name likewise of Aldersgate, hath six Parish churches in it (viz.) saint Marie Staining, in Staining lane, s. john Zachary, in Engaine or Maidenlane, s. Leonard in Fauster-lane, saint Olaue in Siluerstreet, saint Anne by Aldersgate, and saint Buttolph without Aldersgate. Hals of companies, first, Goldsmith's Hall. Goldsmiths Hall at Maydenlane end, they being an ancient and very worshipful society; for the first Mayor that ever was in London, was a brother of that society, named Henry Fitz-Alwin, Fitz-Liesstane, who continued Mayor more than 24. years together. Cook's hall. The Cooks or Pastelers have a Hall also in Aldersgatestreet, and they were admitted to be a company, and to have a Master and wardens, in the 22. year of Edward the fourth. This ward hath an Alderman and his two Deputies; one within, the other without, common counsellors five, Constables, 8. Scavenger's, 9 wardmote inquest, fourteen, and a Beadle. In London it is taxed at seven pound to the fifteen, and in Exchequer at six pound, nineteen shillings. Faringdon ward within Faringdon ward within, or Infra, distinguished (by that word of difference) from the other ward of the same name, which is without the city walls, and thereon fearmed Faringdon extra, or without. Yet (in elder times) these two wards were but one, and under the care of one alderman, until the 17. year of king Richard the second; when, the greatness thereof caused it to be divided into two wards, being then ordered (by parliament) to have two aldermen also as to this day it continueth. This whole great ward of Faringdon both within and without, How Faringdon ward took name. derived her name of W. Faringdon, or Farendon, Goldsmith, alderman of that ward, and one of the sheriffs of London, in anno 1281. the ninth year of King Edward the first, when he purchased the aldermanry of this ward, as is evident to be seen, by an abstract of deeds, from Thomas de Ardene, or Arderna, to Ankerinus de Avern, Ralphe le Feure, and so to William Farringdon, or Farendon, citizen and Goldsmith, and to his heirs, so coming to Nicholas Faringdon, son to the said William, which Nicholas was a goldsmith also, and 4. times Mayor: living 53. years after his first being Mayor, and he builded the Arch or gate by S. Augustine's Church, which giveth passage into the South Churchyard of S. Paul's. In this ward of Faringdon within, 1361. is the goodly Cathedral Church of S. Paul, and 9 other parish Churches beside, viz. s. Peter at the cross in West cheap, Saint Fauster in Fauster-lane; The free school in Paul's Churchyard, founded by john Collet, Doctor in Divinity and Dean of Paul's. Christ Church, made a Parish church of the Gray-Friers Church, and of two Parish churches, S. Nicholas, and saint Ewin, and also an Hospital for poor children, saint Matthew in Friday street, S. Augustine by Paul's gate, Saint Faith under Paul's Church, S. martin's at Ludgate, Saint Anne at the Blackfriars, S. Michael ad Bladum, or at Corn (corruptly called the Querne) by Paul's gate, where sometime was a Corn market kept, and the chapel of s. james by Cripplesgate. Hals of Societies, Imbroyderers hall. Barbar chirurgeons hall. Saddler's hall. Butchers & Felt makers hall. Imbroiderers Hall in Guthurus. Barbar chirurgeons hall in Monkes-well-street, Saddler's hall in Cheap, Butcher's Hall in Chick-lane in the Shambles, which serveth also for the Feltmakers. This ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy, twelve Common Counsellors, seventeen Constables, eighteen Scavenger's, eighteen wardmote inquest, and a Beadle, It is taxed at 50. pound to the Fifteen. Bread-streete Ward, Bread-street Ward. so called of bread there sold (in elder time) in that street, which giveth name to the whole Ward, and hath four Parish Churches in it. viz. All-hallows in Bread-streete, saint Mildred's in Bread-streete, saint john Evangelist in Fridaystreete, and s. Margaret Moses in Fridaystreete. Hals of companies, Salter's hall. Cordwa●ners hall. are the Salter's Hall in Bread-streete, and Corwainers or shoemakers Hall, in Maidenlane, or Distar lane. This ward hath an Alderman, and his Deputy; ten common Counsellors, ten Constables, eight Scavenger's thirteen Wardemote inquest, and a Beadle. In London it is taxed at thirty seven pound to the fifteen, and in the Exchequer at 36. pound, 18. shillings, two pence. Queen's Hith ward. Queene-Hith Ward, so called of the Queens Hith or water Gate, whereof we have already spoken. In which ward are seven Parish churches, Viz. saint Trinity in Trinity lane, saint Nicholas Cold-abbey, at Knightriders street, saint Nicholas Olaue on Bredstreet hill, saint Mary de Monte Alto, or Mounthaunt, by Old Fish-street hill, or Five foot lane, saint Machael at the Queen's Heath, saint Mary Summerset near Broken wharf, and saint Peter, called parva, Painter's hall. by Paul's wharf. Hals of companies are these, Painter Stayners Hall in Trinity Lane, Blacksmiths Hall on Lambert hill. Blacksmiths hall. This ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy, six common Counsellors, nine constables, eight Scavenger's, thirteen Wardemote inquest, and a beadle. In London it is taxed at twenty pound to the fifteen, and in the Exchequer at 19 pound 16. shillings, two pence. castle Baynard ward, Castle Baynard ward. so named of an ancient castle there standing, belonging sometime to one Baynard, a Nobleman, that came into this Land with the conqueror, and first builded it. In this ward are four parish churches, viz. saint Benet Hude, or Hithe, by Paul's Wharfe, saint Andrew by the Wardrobe, saint Mary Magdalen in Oldfishstreete, and saint Gregory by Paul's church. halls of companies, are these, Woodmongers Hall, Woodmongees hall. Stationer's Hall. on the eastside of Paul's wharf Hill, and the Stationer's Hall, near the west end of Paul's: but converted to a Tavern since then, and the Hall was also in Milkestreet, for a while, but afterward translated again into Amen lane, at the end of Pater noster row, to a goodly ancient house in oldetime, belonging to john Duke of Britain, and Earl of Richmond. Afterward called Pembroke's Inn, as appertaining to the Earls of Pembroke, in the time of Richard the second, the eighteenth year, and Henry the sixth the fourteenth year. But it lately belonged to Henry Lord of Aburgaueny, and was called Aburgavenie house. This ward hath an Alderman and his Deputy, common counsellors, 9 constables, 10. Scavenger's, 7. wardmote inquest, 14. and a Beadle: In London it is taxed at twelve pound to the fifteen, and in the Exchequer at 11. li. 13. s. There remain, yet two more, Faringdon ward without, Faringdon ward and Bride-ward both without. and Bridgeward without, or the Borough of the Southwark, & the round environing Suburbs without the walls, the Duchy of Lancaster, and City of Westminster; All which being not comprised within this instant determination, crave favour for reference to our Chronicle of London, wherein, whatsoever is wanting here, and this slender pile would not permit (stretching already beyond expectation) shall (by God's assistance) be more fully, effectually, and largely performed, then (as yet) Master john Stow his Survey, or any other work (that I have seen) hath so amply delivered, especially concerning this honourable City, and the County of Middlesex, so far as the cities bounds and privileges do grant admittance. Let me not be rashly censured in these gayseeming words, to cast any disgrace or ill aspersion, on the painful labours of that worthy and industrious man Master john Stow (whom living, I loved as a dear and intimate friend, and dead, I honour with all kind remembrance) for such as have had knowledge of our inward respect of each other, & what hath passed between us (concerning this business for the City) I know will no way misconceite of me: they are too wise and virtuous, to swerver in a known truth, and more sound and solid, than malice can have any power to seduce: whatsoever then is referred to our further intention, as it hath been a labour willingly undertaken by me (albeit both beséeming and requiring a much better judgement) So, by his help, who is both the hope and help of all Virtuous endeavours, it shall be effected with all possible diligence. Of the Temporal Government of this Honourable City, since the Conquest. To the worshipful M. Rowland Smart, Esquire, Sword-Bearer of London. PAssing over those Tempestuous times of the old Britons, Romans, Saxons, and Danes, Ethelred Earl of Mercia till Ethelred or Alfred, Earl of Mercia, who had the custody of this city in his power: he no sooner died, but both it, and all other possessions belonging to the said Earl, returned to King Edward (surnamed the Elder &) c. Remaining thus in obedience to him, he then ordaining Portgraves, to have the government thereof under him: which name, Portgrave, or Portreve, is compounded of two Saxon words, port and Gerefe, or Reue: Portgrave or Portreve port signifying a Town or City, & Gerefe or Reue, a Guardian or Ruler of the said town or city. Before the conquest, in the days of k. Edw. the Confessor, one Wolfegare was Portgrave, as appeareth by the king's charter to him, thus: Edward K. greeteth Alfward bishop, Wolfegare my Portgrave, Wolfegar Portgrave. & all the Burgesses in London, etc. These Portgraves' continued in William the conquerors time, William Rufus, and Henry the first, when Hugh Buche was Portgrave, and Leofstanus, Goldsmith, Provost, Provost. which name of Provost than began: for Aubery de Vere was (afterward) Portgrave, and Robert Bar-Querel, Robert Bar-Querel provost. Provost. Then (by the same King) was the sherivewick of London and Middlesex granted to the Citizens of London. In the reign of King Stephen, Gilbert Becket was Portgrave, and Andrew Buchevet Provost: and Godfrey Magnavilla, or Mandeuil (by gift of Maude the Empress) was Portgrave or sheriff of London and Middlesex, Portgrave and Sheriff of London & Middlesex. for the yearly farm of three hundred pound, as appeareth by the Charter. In the time of k. Henry the second, those Portgraves were likewise (in divers records) called Vicecomites, Vicounties or sheriffs, as being under an Earl, and then (as since) used that Office, as the sheriffs of London now do. Albeit some Author's term them Domesmen, Eldermen, or judges of the King's court. here then, it shall not seem impertinent, once more to remember the words of William Fitz-stephen, saying. Even as Rome is divided into Wards, William Fitz Stephen his words. so is this City. It hath yearly Sheriffs, instead of Consuls. It hath the dignity of Senators, in Aldermen; It hath under Officers, and (according to the quality of Laws) so hath it several Courts, and general assemblies, upon appointed days. At parting with the name of Portgraves and Provosts, Bailiffs of London. in the first year of K. Richard 1. the citizens obtained to be governed by 2. Bailiffs, who (in ancient deeds) were called Sheriffs, as the Law termeth the Shire Balliva, using the same office of Shrivewick, as the Portgraves before did. The names of the first Bailiffs or Officers, entering into their dignity at the Feast of Saint Michael the Archangel, Anno 1189 were Henry Cornhill, and Richard Reynere. The first Bailiffs of London. King Richard also (at that very time) appointed a supreme Officer above the rest, by the name of Mayor, which word was borrowed from the Haebrew word Mar, and signifieth Dominus, Lord; a word used by the Franconians and old Saxons, their Neighbours (of whom Englishmen have their Original) but called More, as the French did their Maires of the Palace. Thus was the chief Governor called Lord More, Beginning of the Mayralty. or Mayor, because they understood not, that the epithet More, or Mayor, implied no less than lord, without any other additions, yet thus was it than given, for a larger augmentation of honour. Now, as the Goldsmiths yielded London a Provost before (named Leofstanus) even so the same Company (albeit not as yet ranked into a List of Brotherhood) gave London likewise, the first Lord More or Mayor in Dignity, The first L. More of London. whose name was Henry Fitz-Alwin, Fitz-Liefstane, and being so appointed by the King; he continued in that supreme Office, from the first year of King Richard the first, until the fifteenth of K. john, which was more than twenty four years. Henry Cornhill and Richard Reynere (being first chosen Bailiffs) served then as Sheriffs, (by all likelihood) to the said Henry Fitz-Alwin, The time of the L. Mairs election. Fitz-Leifstane, More▪ whereby very well may be observed, the progress and continuance of those several elections and choices (even to this day) the Sheriffs being first appointed, and then the Lord More after chosen, & at the Feast of Saint Michael the Archaungell, at the first, (by King Richard) it was ordained. King john in like manner, after this high Dignity (begun by his Brother) granted them free liberty by Charter, Choice of Lord More by voices and hands. Choice of Sheriffs. to choose by (voices and hands) yearly, out of the twelve chiefest and principal Companies, their Praetor or More: Also two Sheriffs, whereof the one should be called the King's Sheriff, and the other the cities Sheriff, which (in that form) hath continued even to this instant. Nay more, he granted them full power and authority, not only to choose their Sheriffs at their own pleasure, but also (upon just occasion, either of contempt, mutiny, disobedience, or other offences) to degrade and deprive them. Forrest of Middlesex and warren of Stanes. The Forest of Middlesex, and the Warren of Stanes, being laid open in An. 1218. the King afterward, in the year 1226. confirmed to the Citizens of London, free warrant and liberty, to hunt a limited circuit about the City, and in the Warren of Stanes. Also, that the Citizens of London should pass Toule-frée, through all England: Toll free through all England granted to London. and the Kedeles or wears in the River of Thames or Midway, to be plucked up and destroyed for ever. When the Franchises and liberties were thus confirmed by King john, he granted moreover, that either Sheriff should have two Clarks, and two Sergeants; also, Common seal of the City. that the City should have a common Seal, and that the Mayor should be presented to the Barons of the Exchequer, and they then to admit him, as lawful Lieutenant and Deputy (under the king) to govern the City. Having thus briefly discoursed, how the dignity of honour began in this famous City, both in the style of Lord Maior and Sheriffs; as briefly will we also part their progress and succession, from that first worthy man Henry Fitz-Alwin, Fitz-Liefstane, Goldsmith, to the as worthy Man, Sir William Cravon, now governing, this present year, 1611. Henry Fitz-Alwin, Fitz-Liefstane, 1189 Goldesmith, beginning to take that high office on him, in the first year of King Richard the first (who was also for his valour and courage Surnamed Cueur de Lion) continued still in the same Dignity, for more than twenty four years, and then deceasing, in the 15. year of King john, he was buried in the Priory of the holy Trinity, near unto Aldgate. In the said 15. year of King john (either to serve out the remainder of that year, 1213. or to go on in a new election,) Roger Fitz-Alwain was chosen Lord More: but I neither find his freedom, or his death, albeit he continued (as it seemeth) in Office but one year; the like did Serle Mercer, and William Hardell, in the years 1214. and 1215. And then began the reign of King Henry the third, Son to King john, the 19 of October, 1216. 1216 james Alderman, and Solomon Blazing, Lord majors, served out this year (by several parts) each after other. 1217. Serle Mercer, was again chosen Lord Maior, and continued in the Dignity six years together. 1223 Richard Renger, being chosen Lord Maior, continued so the space of four years. 1227 Roger Duke, or Duck, was Lord Mayor of London four years. 1231 Andrew Bokerell, Pepperer, was Lord Mayor of London seven years together. 1238 Richard Renger, Lord Maior again one year. 1239 William joiner, Lord Maior one year, who builded the Quire of the Gray-Fryers Church in London, and afterward became a lay brother of that house. 1240 Gerard Bat, Lord Maior one year: and being elected again for the ensuing year, the King would not suffer it, because he had been charged (in the former year) with taking Money of the Victuallers, and could show no reason for it. 1241 Reginald Bongey, was Lord Maior two years. 1243. Ralph Ashwy, Lord Maior one year. 1244 Michael Tony, Lord Maior one year. 1245 john guysor's, Pepperer, Lord Mayor two years. 1247 Peter Fitz-Alwin, Lord Maior one year. Michael Tonny, Lord Maior again one year. 1248 Roger Fitz-Roger, Lord Maior one year. 1249 john Norman, Lord Maior one year▪ 1250 Adam Basin, Lord Maior one year. 1251 john Tolason, Draper, Lord Maior one year. 1252 Richard Hardell, Draper, 1253 was Lord Maior six years together. john guysor's, Pepperer, 1259 again Lord Maior one year. William Fitz-Richard, 1260 was Lord Maior two years. Thomas Fitz-Richard, 1262 was Lord Maior four years together. Will Richards, again Lord Maior one year. 1266 Allen le Zouch, Lord Maior one year: 1267 and being a Baron of the Land, and chief justice also, he was slain in Westminster Hall, by john Warren, Earl of Surry, in An. 1270. Sir Stephen Edward's, Lord Maior one year. 1268 Sir Hugh Fitz-Othon, 1269 was made Custos of London, and Constable of the Tower, by reason of a great quarrel happening between the Goldsmiths and the Tailors: so that the King gave the keeping of the City to his Son Prince Edward▪ who made the said Sir Hugh Fitz-Othon Custos of the City, A Custos appointed over the City of London. and Constable of the Tower, as his Deputy. But Prince Edward quickly obtained of the King his Father, to have the cities ancient liberties confirmed by Charter again, and so they proceeded on to their wont election of a lord Maior and Sheriffs, as before, and Sir Hugh Fitz Othon was discharged of his office. 1270 john Adrian, Vintoner, was Lord Maior of London two years. 1272. Sir Walter Harvey, Lord Maior, and H. Frowike, Pepperer, likewise for part of that year: wherein began the reign of King Edward the first, the 16. of November, 1272. 1273. Sir Walter Harvey, Lord Maior again for one year. 1274 Henry Walleis, Lord Mayor for one year. 1275 Gregory Roksley, Goldesmith, chief Say Master of all the kings Mints through England, and keeper of the King's Exchange at London; was Lord Maior se●uen years together. 1282 Henry Walleis, who builded the Ton upon Cornhill, to be a Prison, and the Stocks to be a Market-house, was Lord Maior again three years together. 1285 Gregory Roksley being chosen Lord Maior again, King Edward was informed, that the said Gregory Roksley took bribes of the Bakers, and suffered them to sell bread, that wanted six or seven ounces of weight in a Pennie-loafe, yet Wheat was then sold at London for 12. & 16 pence the quarter. Upon which information, the K. seized the Franchises and liberties into his own hands, appointing first one john Sandwich, to be Custos thereof for one part of the year, and Sir john Breton, London again in the charge or rule of a Custos. Knight, for the other part. Thus did the City of London continue under the government of several Men, bearing the names of Custos, till King Edward the second began his reign, which was the seventh day of july, 1307. Sir john Blunt, Knight, 1307 having been Custos of the City, for the space of six years before, was now in the first year of King Edward the second, Lord Mayor for one year. Nicholas Faringdon, or Farendon, 1308 Goldesmith, of whom the Ward of Faringdon (both within, and without) took name, was L. Maior for one year. Thomas Roman, Lord Maior one year. 1309 Richard Reffam, Mercer, Maior one year. 1310 Sir john guysor's, Pepperer, 1311 Lord Maior two years. Nicholas Faringdon, Goldsmith, 1313 again Lord Maior one year. Sir john guysor's, Pepperer, 1314 again L. Mayor one year. Stephen Abendon, Lord Maior one year. 1315 john Wingrave, Lord Maior three years. 1316 In his time happened such cheapness of Corn, that a Bushel of Wheat (which had been sold formerly for ten shillings) was then sold for ten pence. Hamond Chickwell, Pepperer, 1319 Lord Mayor one year. Nicholas Faringdon, 1320 again Lord Maior one years. Hamond Chickwell, Pepperer, 1321 again Lord Mayor two year. Nicholas Faringdon, Goldsmith, 1323 again L. Mayor one year. 1324 Hamond Chickwell, Pepperer, again Lord Mayor two years. 1326 Richard Britain, Goldsmith, Lord Mayor one year. In whose time King Edward the third began his reign, the 25 day of january, 1326. who granted the Lord Mayor to be justice for the jail delivery at Newgate; The Lord Maior justice for jail delivery at New gate. and the Citizens of London not to go (by any constraint) to any War out of the City of London. Beside, that the Franchises and liberties of the City, should not thenceforward (for any cause) be seized into the kings hands: Nor ●ny escheator to be in the City, but the Lord Maior for the time being. 1327 Hamond Chickwell, Pepperer, again Lord Maior one year. 1328 john Grantham, Lord Maior one year. 1329 Richard Swandland, Lord Maior one year: In whose time the King kept a great justing in Cheap, between Sopa●s-lane and the great Cross. 1330 Sir john Poultney, Draper, Lord Maior two years. 1332 john Preston, Draper, Lord Maior one year. 1333 Sir john Poultney, Draper, again L. Mayor one year. 1334 Reginald at the Conduit, Vintoner, L. Mayor one year. 1335 Nicholas Wotten, Lord Maior one year. 1336 Sir john Poultney, Draper, again Lord Maior one year. He founded a College in the parish Church of Saint Laurance Poultney, by Candlewick-street. Henry Darcy, Lord Maior two years: 1337 In whose time the Sergeants to the Lord Mayor, The first Maces to Sergeants granted. and Sheriffs of London, were granted by the King, to beat Maces of Silver and Gild, with the King's arms on them. Andrew Aubery▪ Grocer, L. Mayor two years. 1339 john of Oxenford, Vintoner, 1341 Lord Maior one year. Simon Francis, Mercer, L. Mayor one year. 1342 john Hamond, Lord Mayor two years. 1343 Richard Leget, Lord Maior one year. 1345 Geffrey Witchingham, L. Mayor one year. 1346 Tho. Leggy, Skinner, Lord Maior one year. 1347 john Lovekin, fishmonger, 1348 Lord Maior one year. Walter Turk, fishmonger, 1349 Lord Maior one year. Richard Killingbury, Lord Maior one year. 1350 Andrew Aubery, Grocer, 1351 again Lord Maior one year. Simon Francis, Mercer, 1352 who (with Henry Frowike) founded the College in Guildhall Chapel, and was again Lord Maior two years. Thomas Leggy, Skinner, 1354 again Lord Maior one year. Simon Francis, Mercer, 1355 again Lord Maior one year. Henry Prichard, or Piccard, Vintoner, 1356 who (in one day) feasted the kings of England, France, Four kings feasted at the L. majors house in one day. Scots, and Cypress, at his own house, and was L. Maior one year. 1357 john Stody, Vintoner, Lord Mayor one year. 1358 john Lovekin, fishmonger, again Lord Maior one year. 1359 Simon Dolesby, Grocer, Lord Mayor one year. 1360 john Wroth, fishmonger, Lord Mayor one year. 1361 john Peche, fishmonger, Lord Maior one year. 1362 Stephen Gondish, Draper, Lord Mayor one year. 1362 john Not, Grocer, Lord Maior one year. 1364 Adam of Bury, Skinner, Lord Mayor one year. 1365 john Lovekin, fishmonger, again Lord Maior, and Adam of Bury one year. 1366 john Lovekin, fishmonger, again Lord Mayor one year. This john Lovekin builded Saint Michael's Church in crooked-lane. 1367 james Andrew, Draper, Lord Mayor one year. 1368 Simon Mordon, fishmonger, Lord Maior one year. 1369 john Chichester, Goldsmith, Lord Mayor one year. 1370 john Barnes, Mercer, Lord Mayor two years. 1372 john Piell, Mercer, Lord Mayor one year. 1373 Adam of Bury, Skinner, again Lord Maior one year. William Walworth, fishmonger, 1374 Lord Maior one year. john Warde, Grocer, 1375 Lord Maior one year. Adam Staple, Mercer, Lord Maior one year. 1376 His time no sooner expired, but therewith ended the life of King Edward the third, and on the 21. of june 1377. began the reign of King Richard the second. Sir Nicholas Brember, Grocer, 1377 Lord Maior one year. john Philpot, Grocer, Lord Maior one year. 1378 john Hadley, Grocer, Lord Maior one year. 1379 Wil Walworth, fishmonger, 1380 again Lord Maior. In this year of his Mairalty happened the tumultuous rebellion of jack Straw, Wat Tiler, jack Carter, jack Truman, etc. with the commons of Kent, Essex, and other places: But William Walworth, being then Lord Maior, The Lord Mayor killed jack Straw the Rebel. arrested the Traitor jack Straw so stoutly with his Weapon on the head (even as he saucily took the King's Horse by the bridle in Smithfielde) that, thrusting him afterward through the throat; the whole crew were dishartened, and seeing their Captain slain, betook themselves to flight. For which worthy act, the King immediately knighted the Lord Maior William Walworth, and with him Ralphe Standish, john Philpot, Nicholas Brember, john Launde, and Nicholas Twifield, Burgesses of the City, The dagger added to the cities Arms. adding the Dagger into the cities Arms, which till that day was a red Cross in a Silver field only. 1381 john Northampton, Draper, Lord Maior two years. 1383 Sir Nicholas Brember, Grocer, knighted with Sir William Walworth, Lord Maior three years together. 1387 Nicholas Exton, fishmon. lord maior 1. year 1388 Nicholas T●●ifield, or T●ylorde, knighted with Sir William Walworth, Lord Maior one year. 1389 William V●na●r, Grocer, Lord Maior, one year. 1●90 Adam B●mme, Goldsmith (who provided the City of such plenty of corn from beyond the seas, that the City was able to furnish the country) Lord Maior one year. 13●1 john Hend, Draper, in whose time happened a great tumult in London, because one of the bishop of Salisburies' men, had taken a Horse-loaf from a Baker's man in Fleetstreet, and on the bishops complaint to the King, the Lord Maior being sent for to Windsor, and other of his Brethren; the Mayor, Sheriffs, and other substantial Citizens, were there arrested, the Mayor committed to the castle of Windsor, and the rest to other Castles and Holds. The King seized the city into his hands, appointing a Warden to govern it, A Warden appointed to govern London. named Sir Edward Darling●●g, knight, etc. But in short while the kings displeasure was pacified, and the liberties of London restored and ratified. 1392 William S●ondon, Grocer, lord maior 1. year. 1393 john Hadley, Grocer, again lord maior one year. john Froshe, Mercer, Lord maior one year. 1394 William More, Vintner, 1395 L. Mayor one year Adam Bamme, Goldsmith, 1396 again Lord Maior one year. Richard Whittington, mercer, 1397 Lord Maior one year. Drew Barentine, Goldsmith, 1398 Lord Maior 1. year. At his expiration of Office, began the reign of King Henry the fourth, the 29. of September, 1399. Thomas Knolles, Grocer, lord maior 1. year. 1399 john Francis, Goldsmith, lord maior one year. 1400 john Shadworth, mercer, lord maior one year. 1401 john Walcote, Draper, lord maior one year. 1402 William Ascham, Fishmonger, 1403 lord maior one year. john Hend, draper, again lord maior one year, 1304 he builded new again the parish Church of saint Swithen at London stone. john woodcock, mercer, lord maior one year. 1405 Richard Whittington, mercer, 1406 again lord maior one year. In which year died of the plague more than 30000. people. William Stondon, Grocer, 1407 again lord maior one year. Drew Barentine, Goldsmith, 1408 again lord maior one year. He builded part of the Goldesmiths' Hall, and gave them lands. Richard Marlowe, iron-monger, 1409 Lord Maior one year. Thomas Knoles, Grocer, 1410 again L. Mayor one year: he began anew to build the guildhall in London, etc. 1411 Robert Chichley, Grocer, Lord Maior one year. 1412 William Waldren, mercer, Lord Maior one year. In his time died king Henry the fourth, & his son King Henry the fifth began his reign, the 20. day of march, 1412. 1413 William Cromar, Draper, lord Maior one year. 1414 Thomas Falconer, mercer, who builded the Postern at Moorgate, and lent the king 10000 marks upon jewels, Lord Maior one year. 1415 Nicholas Wotton, Draper, Lord Maior one year. 1416 Henry Barton, Skinner, who first ordained Lantern and candlelight in the winter Evenings, First Lantherne and candlelight from Hallontide to Candlemas: Lord Maior one year. 1417 Richard Marlowe, Iremonger, again Lord Maior one year. 1418 William Sevenoke, Grocer, (who founded a free School, and Alms houses at Sevenoke in Kent) Lord Maior one year. 1419 Richard Whittington, mercer, of whose worthy deeds we have else where spoken, Lord Maior again one year. 1420 William Cambridge, Grocer, Lord Maior one year. 1421 Robert Chicheley, Grocer, again L. Mayor one year. He gave the plot of ground, to build the parish church of S. Stephens in Walbrooke thereon: In his time died king Henry the fift, and King Henry the sixth began his reign the 31 of August, 1422. William walderne, mercer, 1422 again Lord Maior one year. Newgate was then builded by Richard whittington's executors. William Cromar, Draper, 1423 again Lord Maior one year. john Michael, Fishmonger, 1424 Lord Maior one year. john Coventrie, mercer, Lord Maior one year. 1425 john Reinwell, Fishm. lord maior one year. 1426 john Gidney, Draper Lord Maior one year. 1427 Henry Barton, Skinner, 1428 again Lord Maior one year. William East-field, mercer, 1429 Lord Maior one year. Nicholas wotton, Draper, 1430 again Lord Maior one year. john Welles, Grocer, a liberal benefactor, 1431 for new building the chapel by Guild-Hald; beside, of his goods was built the Standard in westcheape, Lord Maior one year. john Parneis, Fishmonger, 1432 Lord Maior one year. john Brokle, Draper, Lord Maior one year. 1433 Roger Oteley, Grocer, Lord Maior one year. 1434 Henry Frowicke, Mercer, 1435 L●de Mayor one year. john Michael, Fishmonger, 1436 again L. Mayor one year. Sir William East-field, mercer (who was made a Knight of the bath, 1437 and gave great bounty to the Water conduits, L. Mayor, Knight of the Bath. Lord Maior again one year. 1438 Stephen Browne, Grocer, Lord Maior one year. 1439 Robert Large, mercer, Lord Maior one year. 1440 john Paddesley, Goldsmith, mint-maister, Lord Maior one year. 1441 Robert Clopto●, Draper, Lord Maior one year. 1442 john Hatherley, iron-monger, Lord Maior one year. 1443 Thomas Catworth, Grocer, Lord Maior one year. 1444 Henry Frowicke, mercer, in whose time Paul's Steeple was fired with lightning, and hardly quenched, Paul's ste●ple fired. Lord Maior again one year. 1445 Sir Simon Eyre, Draper (who builded Leaden Hal, for a common Granary to the city, etc.) Lord Maior one year. 1446 john Olney, mercer, Lord Maior one year. 1447 john Sidney, Draper, Lord Maior one year. 1448 Stephen Browne, Grocer, again Lord Maior one year. 1449 Thomas Chalton, mercer (in whose time happened the Rebellion of jack Cade of Kent) Lord Maior one year●. 1450 Nicholas Wilford, Grocer, lord Maior one year. 1451 William Gregory, Skinner, lord Maior one year. 1452 Godfrey Filding, mercer, who was made one of the counsel to King Henry the sixth, and King Edward the fourth, lord Maior one year. john Norman, Draper, 1453 who was the first mayor that was rowed by water to westminster, The first Mayor rowed to Westminster. for (till that time) they road thither on horseback, lord Maior, one year. Stephen Foster, 1454 Fishmonger (who enlarged Ludgate) Lord Maior one year. William Marrow, Grocer, 1455 lord Maior one year. T●omas Canning, Grocer, 1456 Lord Maior one year. Godfrey Boloine, 1457 mercer (who gave a 1000 li. to poor householders in London, etc.) lord Maior one year. Thomas Scot, 1458 Draper lord Maior one year William Hulin, Fishmonger, 1459 lord Maior one year. Richard Lee, Grocer, lord Maior one year. 1460 In his time began King Henry the sixth his troubles, and King Edward the fourth entered his reign the fourth of March, 1460. Hugh witch, mercer, lord Maior one year. 1461 Thomas Cook, Draper, 1462 Lord Maior Knight of the Bath. made knight of the Bath, in the fift year of King Edward the 4. Lord maior one year. Matthew Philip, Goldsmith (made Knight of the Bath the fifth year of Edward the fourth, 1463 Lord Mayor Knighted in the field. and afterward knighted in field, the tenth of Edward the fourth, Lord maior one year. Ralph joceline, Draper, 1464 Knight of the Bath and knighted also in field, Lord maior one year. 1465 A sheriff knight of the Bath. Ralph Verney, mercer Lord Maior one year. Henry weaver, one of the Sheriffs of London, was then made knight of the Bath. 1466 john Young, Grocer (knighted in the field) L. Mayor one year. 1467 1468 Tho. O●dgraue, Skinner, L. Mayor 1. year. 1469 William Tailor, Grocer, L. Mayor one year. Lord Maior delivered the king out of the Tower. Richard Lee, Grocer, again lord Maior one year. In whose time the Tower of London being delivered to him and his brethren, they released King Henry the sixth thence. 1470 john Stockton, mercer, who worthily withstanding the Bastard Fauconbridge, he, with eleven Aldermen, L. Mayor 11 Aldermen, and the Recorder, knighted in field. & Thomas Urswick, than Recorder, were all knighted in the field by K. Edward the fourth; Lord Maior one year. William Edward's, Grocer, L. Mayor 1. year. 1471 Sir william Hampton, Fishmonger, Lord Maior one year. 1472 1473 john Tate, mercer, lord maior one year. In his time the Sheriffs of London were appointed to have severally 16. Sergeants, Sergeants, yeomen, & Clerks appointed. & each Sergeant his Yeoman. Then also was ordained six clerk, viz. a Secondary, a Clerk of the Papers, and four other Clerks, beside the under-sheriffes Clerks. 1474 Robert Drop, Draper, L. Mayor one year. 1475 Robert Basset, Salter, L. Maior▪ one year. 1407 Sir Ralph joceline, Draper, knight of the Bath, lord maior one year. 1477 Humphrey Hayford, Goldsmith, lord mayor, one year. Richard Gardener, mercer, lord maior one year. 1478 Sir Bartholomew james, Draper, 1479 Knighted in field and (who newly builded the great Conduit in Westcheape) lord maior one year. john Browne, mercer, lord maior one year. 1480 William Hariot, Draper, 1481 lord maior one year Edmund Shaa, Goldsmith, 1482 who builded Cripplesgate, lord maior one year. Then began the reign of King Edward the fifth, son to King Edward the fourth; but prevented by the cruel usurpation of his Uncle Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who began his reign the 22. day of june, 1483. And because many have often desired, to know the country and parentage of our Lord Majors of London, in regard that divers worthy houses have descended of them: my purpose was, to have examined our ancient Records, from the very beginning of that honourable dignity, and so to have pursued the tract thereof (by reporting each man's Father's name and Country) even to this instant. Wherein I have had the most laborious and painful help, of my especial kind friend, master W. Williams: And shaping our course from the present government of sir William Cravon, hoping to have reached the main height of our purpose, even to Henry Fitzalwin, etc. We could proceed no further backward, than the reign of king Richard the third, where I will now begin with their country, and parents, and so hereafter, go on with the rest, if this great labour may be but favourably accepted. ¶ The reign of King Richard the third. 1483 RObert Billisdon, Haberdasher, Son to Alexander Billisdom, of Queeningborough, in the County of Leicester, Lord Maior one year. 1484 Thomas Hill, Grocer, Son to William Hil of Hilston, in the County of Kent. Sir William Stocker, Draper, son to Thomas Stocker, of Eton, Three Lord Majors in one year. in the County of Bedford. And john Ward, Grocer, son to Richard Ward, of Howdon, in the County of York. These three Majors were all in this one year, by reason a sweeting sickness. And King Richard, being slain at Bosworth-field; Henry the seventh began his reign the 22. of August 1485. 1485 Hugh Brice, Goldsmith, Son to Richard Brice of Dubline in Ireland: Lord Maior one year. 1486 Henry Collet, Mercer, son to Robert Collet of Windouer, in the County of Buckingham, Lord Maior one year. 1487 Sir William Horn, Salter (made Knight in the field by King Henry the seventh) was son to Thomas Horn of Snaylewell, in Cambridgeshire; Lord Maior one year. 1488 Robert Tate, Mercer, Son to Thomas Tate, of the City of Coventry; Lord Maior one year. 1489 William White, Draper, son to Wil White of Tickhill in the County of York; Lord Maior one year. john Matthew, Linen-draper, 1490 and translated to the Mercers, Son to Thomas Matthew of Sherington, in the County of Buckingham; Lord Maior one year. Hugh Clopton, Mercer, son to john Clopton of Stratford upon Auon, 1491 in the County of Warwick (where the said Hugh builded the goodly Stone-Bridge) Lord Mayor one year. William Martin, Skinner, 1492 son to Walter Martin, of the County of Hertford; Lord Maior one year. Sir Ralph Ostrich, 1493 fishmonger (knighted by Henry the seventh) son to Henry Ostrich of Hitchin, in the County of Hertford, lord Maior one year. Richard Chawry, Salter, 1494 Son to William Chawry, of Westram in Kent; Lord Mayor one year. Henry Collet, Mercer, 1495. again Lord Maior one year. john Tate, Mercer, 1496 son to Thomas Tate of Coventry, and Brother to Robert Tate Maior, forenamed, Lord Mayor one year. This john Tate, Robert Sheffielde, Recorder, and both the Sheriffs, were knighted in the field by King Henry the seventh, Black heath field. for their good service against the Rebels at Blackheath Field. William Purchas, Mercer, 1497. son to john Purchas of Gamelinghey, in the County of Cambridge, Lord Maior one year. 1498 Sir john Percivall, Merchant-Taylor, knighted in field by King Henry the seventh) son to Roger Percivall of London; L. Mayor one year. 1499 Nicholas Aldwine, Mercer, Son to Richard Aldwine of Spalding in Lincolnshire, lord Maior one year. He gave twelve pence a piece to 3000. poor people in London, and the like to as many in Spalding. 1500 William Remington, fishmonger, son to Robert Remington, of Boston in Lincolnshire, Lord Maior one year. 1501 john Shaa, Goldsmith, son to john Shaa of Rochfort in Essex, Lord Mairs first riding from the Guild Hall, to take Barge to Westminster. Lord Maior one year. He was made Knight in the field by King Henry the seventh, and he caused the Aldermen his brethren, to ride from the Guildehall to the Thames side, when he took Barge to Westminster, where he was sworn by the kings Council. He first kept Court alone in the afternoon, for redress of matters called before him. 1502 Bartholomew Read, Goldsmith, son of Roger Read of Crowmer in Norfolk; L. Mayor one year. 1503 William Capell, Draper, son of john Capell of Stokeneyland in Suffolk; Lord Maior one year. First setting up of cages. He was knighted by King Henry the seventh. And he first caused cages to be set up in every Ward, for punishment of Rogues and vagabonds. 1504 john Winger, Grocer, son to William Winger of Leicester; Lord Maior one year. Thomas Knesworth, fishmonger, 1505 son to john Knesworth, of Knesworth in Cambridgeshire, Lord Maior one year. Sir Richard Haddon, Mercer, 1506 son of William Haddon, Citizen and Mercer of London, Lord Maior one year. William Browne, Mercer, 1507 Son of john Browne, Citizen and Mercer of London, Lord Mayor for one part of the year, and Laurance Ailmer, Draper, Son of Thomas Ailmer, of Ellesnam in Essex, Lord Maior for the other part. Stephen jennings, Merchant-Taylor, 1508 son to William jennings, of Wolnerhampton in Staffordshire (where he builded a free School, worthily yet maintained by the Merchant-Taylors, and the greater part of S. Andrews under-shaft Parish Church in London) Lord Maior one year. Thomas Bradbury, Mercer, 1509 son to William Bradbury of Branghing in Hertfordshire: Lord Maior part of the year, and Sir William Capell the rest, wherein died King Henry the seventh, and Henry the eight his son, began his reign the 22. of April, 1509. Henry Keble, Grocer, 1510 son to George Keble of London, Citizen and Grocer; Lord Maior one year. Roger Acheley, Draper, 1511 son to Thomas Acheley of Stanwardine in Shropshire; Lord Maior one year. Sir William Coppinger, fishmonger, 1512 son to Walter Coppinger, of Buckseill in Suffolk; And Sir Richard Haddon, Mercer, were Lord majors this year by several parts, each after other. 1513. William Browne, Mercer, son to john Browne, Citizen and Mercer of London, Lord Maior one year. 1514 George Monox, Draper, borne in London, Lord Mayor one year. 1515 Sir William Butler, Grocer, son to Richard Butler, of Bindenham in Bedfordshire, Lord Maior one year. 1516 john Reest, Grocer, son to William Reest of Peterborow, in Northamptonshire, Lord Maior one year. 1517 Sir Thomas Exmew, Goldesmith, son to Richard Exmew of Ruthin in Cheshire; Lord Maior one year: he made the Water-Conduite in London wall by Moore-gate, etc. 1518 Thomas Mirfin, Skinner, son to George Mirfin, of Elie in Cambridgeshire, L. Mayor one year. 1519 Sir james Yardford, Mercer, son to William Yardford of Kidwelley in Wales; L. Mayor one year. 1520 Sir john Brugge, Draper, son to Thomas Brugge of Dymmocke in Glocestershire; Lord Maior one year. 1511 Sir john Milborne, Draper, son to john Milborne of Long-Melford in Suffolk; L. Mayor one year. 1522 Sir john Mundy, Goldsmith, son to William Mundy of Wycomb in Buckinghamshire; Lord Maior one year. Sir Thomas Baldry, Mercer, 1523 son to Richard Baldry, of Stow-market in Suffolk; Lord Maior one year. Sir William bailie, Draper, 1524 son to john bailie of Thackstead in Essex; Lord Mayor one year. Sir john Allen, Mercer, 1525 son to Richard Allen of Thackstead, in Essex; Lord Mayor two years. Sir Thomas Seymor, Mercer, 1526 son to john Seymor of London, fishmonger, who was Son to Robert Seymor of Walden in Essex; Lord Maior one year. Sir james Spencer, Vintoner, 1527 son to Robert Spencer of Congleton in Cheshire, Lord Mayor one year. Sir john Rudstone, Draper, 1528 son to Robert Rudstone of Hatton in Yorkshire; Lord Maior one year. Sir Ralph Dodmer, Mercer, 1529 son to Henry Dodmer, of Pickering-Leigh in Yorkshire; being free of the Brewers, he was from them translated to the Mercers, and Lord Mayor one year. Sir Thomas Pargitor, Salter, 1530 son to john Pargitor, of Chippingnorton in Oxfordshire, Lord Maior one year. Sir Nicholas Lambert, Grocer, son to Edmond Lambert of Wilton in Wiltshire; 1531 L. Mayor one year. 1532. Sir Stephen Peacock, Haberdasher, son to Stephen Peacock of the City of Dublin; Lord Maior one year. 1533 Sir Christopher Askew, Draper, son to john Askew of Edmonton in Middlesex; Lord Maior one year. 1534 Sir john Champneis, Skinner, son to R. Campneis, of Chew in Somersetshire; Lord Mayor one year. 1535 Sir john Allen, Mercer, again Lord Maior one year, and made a privy Counsellor to the King, for his great wisdom. 1136 Sir Ralph Warren Mercer, son to Thomas Warren of London, Fuller, who was son to William Warren, of fearing in Essex: L. Mayor one year. 1537 Sir Richard Gresham, Mercer, son to john Gresham, of Holte in Norfolk; Lord Maior one year. 1538 Sir William Forman, Haberdasher, son to Willi● Forman of Gainsburgh in Lincolnshire, Lord Maior one year. 1539 Sir William Hollis of London, Mercer, L. Mayor one year. 1540 Sir William Roche, Draper, son to john Roche of Wixley in Yorkshire; Lord Maior one year. 1541 Sir Michael Dormer, Mercer, son to Geffrey Dormer of Tame in Orfordshire; L. Mayor one year. 1542 john Cootes, Salter, son to Thomas Coats of Bearton, in Buckinghamshire; Lord More one year. Sir William Bowyer, Draper, son to William Bowyer, of Harston in Cambridgshire, 1543 Lord Maior one year. Sir William Laxton, Grocer, 1544 son to john Laxton, of Yongdel in Northamptonshire; Lord Maior one year. Sir Martin Bowes, Goldesmith, 1545. son to Thomas Bows of York City, Lord Maior one year. Sir Henry Hubberthorne, 1546 Merchant-Taylor, son to Christopher Hubberthorne, of Wadingworth in Lincolnshire, L. Mayor one year. In whose time died King Henry the 8. and King Edward the sixth, began his reign the 28. of january, 1546. Sir john Gresham, Mercer, 1547 son to john Gresham of Holte in Norfolk, Lord Mayor one year. Sir Henry Amcotes, fishmonger, 1548 son to William Amcotes of Astrap in Lincolnshire, L. Mayor one year. Sir Rowland Hill, Mercer, 1549 son to Thomas Hill of Hodnet in Shropshire: Lord Maior one year. Sir Andrew judde, Skinner, 1550 son to john Iud of Tonebridge in Kent, Lord Maior one year. Sir Richard Dobbes, Skinner, 1551 son to Robert Dobbes of Baitby in Yorkshire: L. Mayor one year. Sir George Barn, Haberdasher, 1552 son to George Barn, Citizen and Haberdasher of London, Lord Maior one year. 1553 Sir Thomas White, Merchant-Taylor, son to Thomas White of Rickmansworth, in Hertfordshire, Lord maior one year. Then died king Edward, and Queen Mary began her reign the 6. day of july, 1553. This sir Thomas White founded S. john Baptists College in Oxenford: and gave 2000 li. to the City of Bristol, to purchase 100 and 20. li. land yearly, etc. 1554 Sir Thomas Lion, Grocer, son to john Lion of Peryfare in Middlesex, Lord Maior one year. 1555 Sir William Gerard, Haberdasher, son to john Gerard, Citizen and Grocer of London, who was son to William Gerard, of Seddingbourne in Kent; Lord Maior one year. 1556 Sir Thomas Offley, Merchant-Taylor, son to William Offley, of the City of Chester, lord maior one year. 1557 Sir Thomas Curteis, fishmonger, son to john Curteis of Enfield in Middlesex, he was free of the Pewterers, and from them translated to the Fishmongers, Lord Maior one year. 1558 Sir Thomas Leigh, Mercer, son to Roger Leigh, of Willington, in Shropshire, Lord Maior one year. In which year died Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth began her princely reign the seaventéenth day of November, 1558. 1559 Sir William Huet, Clothworker, son to Edmond Huet of Wales in Yorkshire: Lord Maior one year. Sir William Chester, Draper, 1560 son to john Chester, Citizen and Draper of London; Lord Maior one year. Sir William Harper, Merchant-Taylor, 1561 son to William Harper, of the Town of Bedford, lord maior one year. Sir Thomas Lodge, Grocer, 1562 son to William Lodge, of Cresset in Shropshire, Lord Maior one year. Sir john White, Grocer, 1563 Son to Robert White of Farnam in Surry, Lord Maior one year. Sir Richard Malory, Mercer, 1564 son to Anthony Malory of Papworthamus, in Cambridgeshire; Lord Maior one year. Sir Richard Champion, Draper, 1565 son to Richard Champion of Godilming in Surrey, Lord maior one year. Sir Chtistopher Draper, Iron-monger, 1566 son to john Draper of Melton Mowbrey; Lord Maior one year. Sir Roger Martin, Mercer, 1567. son to Laurance Martin of Melford in Suffolk, Lord maior one year. Sir Thomas Roe Merchant-Taylor, 1568 son to Robert Roe, Citizen and Merchant-Taylor of London, who was son to Reiginald Roe, of Lee in Kent, lord maior one year. Sir Alexander Auenand, Iron-monger, 1569 son to Robert Auenand, of Kings-Norton in Worcestershire, Lord maior one year. Sir Rowland Heyward, Clothworker, 1570 son to George Heiward of Bridge-north in Shropshire, Lord Maior one year. 1571 Sir William Allen, Mercer, son to William Allen, Citizen and Pasteller of London, who was son to Richard Allen, of Stondon in Hertfordshire; Lord Mayor one year. 1572 Sir Lionel Ducket, Mercer, son to William Ducat of Flynton in Nottinghamshire, Lord maior one year. 1573 Sir john Rivers, Grocer, son to Richard Rivers of Penseherst in Kent L. Mayor one year. 1574 Sir james Hawes, Clothworker, son to Thomas Hawes, Citizen and Merchant of London, who was son to john Hawes of Stokenwenton, in Middlesex, Lord Maior one year. 1575. Sir Ambrose Nicholas, Salter, son to john Nicholas of Nedingworth in Huntingdonshire, Lord Maior one year. 1576 Sir john Langley, Goldsmith, son to Robert Langley, of Althrop in Lincolnshire, Lord Maior one year. 1577 Sir Thomas Ramsey, Grocer, son to john Ramsey, of Elenbridge in Kent; lord Maior one year. 1578 Sir Richard Pipe, Draper, son to Richard Pipe of Wolnerhampton, in Staffordshire, he was free of the Leathersellers, and from them translated to the Drapers, Lord Maior one year. 1579 Sir Nicholas Woodroue, Haberdasher, son to David Woodroue, Citizen and Haberdasher of London, who was son to john Woodroue, of the Parish of Vscombe in Devonshire; Lord Maior one year. Sir john Branch, Draper, 1580 son to john Branch, Citizen and Draper of London, who was son to john Branch of Laynham in Suffolk; Lord Maior one year. Sir james Harvey, Iron-monger, 1581. son to William Harvey, of Cotwalton in Staffordshire, L. Mayor one year. Sir Thomas Blank, Haberdasher, 1582 son to Thomas Blank, Citizen and Haberdasher of London, who was son to Thomas Blank of Guildford in Surry, Lord Maior one year. Sir Edward Osborne, Clothworker, 1583 son to Richard Osborne of Ashford in Kent, Lord Maior one year. Sir Thomas Pulloccill, Draper, 1584. son to William Pulloccill, of Fotescray in Kent, lord Maior one year. Sir Wolstane Dixie, Skinner, 1585. son to Thomas Dixie of Catworth in Huntingdonshire, Lord Maior one year. Sir George Barn, Haberdasher, 1586 son to Sir George Barn, Knight, Citizen and Haberdasher of London, Lord Maior one year. Sir George Bond, Haberdasher, 1587. son of R. Bond of Trull in Somersetshire, Lord Maior one year. Sir Martin Calthrop, 1588. Citizen and Draper of London, Lord Mayor for part of the year, and Richard Martin, Goldsmith, for the rest. Sir john Hart, Grocer, 1589 son of Ralph Hart of Sproston Court in Yorkshire, L. Mayor one year Sir john Allot, fishmonger, 1590. son to Richard Allot of Lymbergh in Lincolnshire, Lord Maior one part of the year, and Sir Rowland Heywerd the rest. 159● Sir William Webbe, Salter, Son to john Webbe of Reading in Berkshire, lord Maior one year. 1592. Sir William Roe, Iron-monger, Son to Thomas Roe of Penseherst in Kent, Lord Maior one year. 1593. Sir Cutbbert Buckle, Vintoner, son to Christopher Buckle, of Bourgh in Westmoreland, L. Mayor for part of the year, and sir Richard Martin Goldsmith, the rest: This sir Richard Martin was son to Thomas Martin, of Saffron Walden in Essex. 1594 Sir john Spenser, Clothworker, son to Rich. Spenser of Waldinfield in Suffolk, Lord Maior one year. 1595 Sir Stephen Slaney, Skinner, son to john Slaney of Mitton in Staffordshire, Lord Maior one year. 1596 Thomas Skinner, Clothworker, son to john Skinner of Walden in Essex: Lord Maior for part of the year, and sir Henry Billingsley Haberdasher the rest. This sir Henry Billingsley was son to William Billingsley, Citizen and Haberdasher of London, who was son to Roger Billingsley, of the City of Canterbury in Kent. 1597 Sir Richard Saltonstall, Skinner, son to Gilbert Saltonstal, of Hallyfax in Yorkshire, Lord Mayor one year. Sir Stephen Soame, Grocer, 1598. son to Thomas Soame of Bradley in Suffolk, Lord Maior one year. He was free of the Girdlers, and from them translated to the Grocers. Sir Nicholas Mosley, Clothworker, 1599 son to Edward Mosley of Hough in Lancashire, Lord Maior one year. Sir William rider, Haberdasher, 1600 son to Thomas rider of Muckleston in Staffordshire, Lord Maior one year. Sir john Gerard, Haberdasher, 1601 son to sir William Gerard, Knight, Citizen and Haberdasher of London, Lord maior one year. Sir Robert Lee, Merchant-Taylor, 1602 son to Humphrey Lee of Bridge-north, in Shropshire, Lord maior one year. Sir Thomas Benet, Mercer, 1603 son to Thomas Benet of Wallingford in Berkshire, Lord Maior one year. Sir Thomas Low, Haberdasher, 1604 son to Simon Low, Citizen and Merchant-Tailor of London, who was son to Ralph Low of London, Gentleman; Lord Maior one year. Sir Leonard Holiday, Merchant-Taylor, 1605 son to William Holiday, of Redborow in Glocestershire, Lord maior one year. Sir john Wats, Clothworker, 1606 son to Thomas Wats of Buntingford in Hertfordshire, Lord maior one year. Sir Henry Roe, Mercer, 1607 son to sir Thomas Roe, Knight, Citizen and Merchant-Taylor of London; Lord Mayor one year. 1608 Sir Humphrey Welde, Grocer, son to john Welde of Eton in Cheshire; Lord Maior one year. 1609 Sir Thomas Cambell, Iron-Monger, son to Robert Cambell, of Fulsam in Norfolk, Lord Maior one year. 1610 Sir William Cravon, Merchant-Taylor, son to William Cravon, of Appletreewick in Yorkshire; Lord Maior now governing, to whom (with the rest of his worthy Brethren) I wish all health and happiness. Since the time also of King Richard the third, these Gentlemen have born office in this City, according to their names and places. ¶ Recorders of this City. M. HVmphrey Statkey, Esquire. M. Thomas Fitz-Williams, Esquire. Sir Robert Sheffield, Knight. M. john Chaloner, Esquire. M. Robert Brooke, Esquire. M. Shelley, Esquire. M. Baker, Esquire. M. Roger Cholmeley, Esquire. M. Richard Onslow, Esquire. M. Thomas Bromeley, Esquire. M. William Fleetwood, Esquire. M. Edward Coke, Esquire. M. Edward Drew, Esquire. M. Thomas Fleming, Esquire. M. john Crook, Esquire. Sir Henry Montague, Knight. Common Sergeants of this City. M. Robert Moloneux, Esquire. M. john Haugh, Esquire. Thomas Higham. M. Thomas Frowick, Esquire. M. Thomas Marrow, Esquire. M. john green, Esquire. M. White, Esquire. M. Walsingham, Esquire. M. Wonley, Esquire. M. Robert Sothwell, Esquire. M. Robert Brooke, Esquire. M. Atkins, Esquire. M. Marsh, Esquire. M. Randall, Esquire. M. Thomas Kirton, Esquire. M. Thomas Wilbraham, Esquire. M. Richard Wheeler, Esquire. ¶ Chamberlains of this City. M. WIlliam Philip, Esquire. M. Miles Adys. M. William Purhas. M. William Milborne. M. Nicholas Mattock. M. George Medley. M. Thomas Haies. M. john Sturgeon. M. George Heaton. M. john Mabbe. M. Robert Brandon. M. Thomas Wilford. M. Cornelius Fish. ¶ Common-Clearkes, or Towne-Clearkes. M. WIlliam Dunthorne. M. Nicholas Pakenham. M. Walter Stub. M. William Pavior. M. Thomas Rushton. M. Blackwell. M. Anthony Stapleton. M. William Sebright. M. Richard Langley. Esquires attending on the Lord Maior in his house, and elsewhere. Sword-bearers. IOhn Metford. Walter Thomas. john Pynchbecke. Valentine Mason. Richard Berwick. Walter Smith. Robert Smart. Matthew Sturdevant. Rowland Smart. Common Hunt. IOhn Stokker. Arnold Babington. john Burton. Thomas Abbot. Thomas Vnderhill. john Lune. john Dewell. William Richbell. Common Proclaimer, or crier. john ash. Thomas Camery. Thomas Say. Richard White. William Nicholson. john Hallyday. john Greene. Christopher Fowkes. john Northage. Edward Ap-Iohn. Water Bailiff. IOhn Good. Henry snow. Geffrey Morton. Thomas Briggs. Sebastian Hilary. Henry King. Nicholas Willie. Robert Sharborowe. Cuthbert Thursbie. Thomas Benson. These Officers also do attend the Lord Maior in their several places. Under Chamberlain. Four clerk of the Lord majors court, who wrote weekly in the Lord majors house severally. Coroner of London. Sergeant Carvers, three. Sergeants of the Chamber, three. Sergeant of the Channel. Yeoman of the Channel. Yeomen of the Waterside, four. Under water Balyffe Yeomen of the Chamber▪ two. Meal weighers▪ three. Yeomen of the wood wharfs, two. The Sword-Bearers man. Esquires men. Common Huntsmen two Esquires men. Common Criers man▪ Esquires men. Water bailiffs men two Esquires men. The carvers man Esquires men. Nine of these have liveries of the ●▪ mayor. v●●▪ The Sword bearer, and his man. Three Carvers. Four Yeomen of the water side. FINIS.