THE WARS OF SWETHLAND. WITH THE GROUND AND Original of the said Wars, begun and continued betwixt SIGISMOND King of Poland, and Duke CHARLES his Uncle, lately Crowned King of Swethland. As also the State and condition of that Kingdom, as it standeth to this day.  
LONDON. Printed for Nathaniel Butter, dwelling in Paul's Churchyard by Saint Augustine's Gate. 1609.   

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE AND Most Noble minded lover of Learning PHILIP, Earl of Mongomerie.  
Such (Right Honourable) as have purposed to please Hector, have still presented him, with Horse and Armour, because his chiefest delight was in Martial Discipline, and such oblations best fitted his humour. For by this, and the like precedents is noted, how all have sought in their presents to keep a Decorum: Having therefore composed this little Treatise that concerns the designs of two Kingdoms: I have thought good (adventuring the Pardon of your Lordship's discretion) to pass the same under your Honourable N●me, as well for that your Expe●ience is already known to be sufficiently instructed in the affairs of our own Country: Being descended of most Honourable Parents, educated in the most liberal Sciences, and managed in one of the most Royal and famous Courts of Europe. As also for that the custom of Honourable dispositions, hath always (next after that) laboured the knowledge and insight of foreign Estates and conditions. That they may not only deserve well of their own Country, by this their industry, but also spread their own fame, as far as their Country is known.  
Your own worth is the principal motive that emboldens me to shroud it under your Patronage, as one that is a fautor and favourer of virtuous Actions, and whose Honourable loves grown from the general applause of the Commonwealth for your high desert, may keep it from the malice of bitter tongues.  
Commanded thus with this consideration, I presume to present my Book unto your Lordship: And humbly entreat, your Honour will be pleased to vouch of my Labours and favour a scholars pen with your gracious acceptation, who answers in affection, what he wants in eloquence. So shall I rest devoted unto you, and bestow my future Studies to effect matter of better deserving, Ever remaining  
Your Honour's most humble affectionate. ANTH. NIXON.   

The true Copy of a Letter Certificatorie, written in commendation of Captain King of Ratcliff, M. William Bardwell and Alexander Child of Redriffe, Masters of three Ships of London, for their memorable service against the Swethens, being thereto compelled in Summer last, 1608.  
Johannes Carolus Chodkiewich Earl of Seckloro Bychor, and of Misra, Captain of Samogitia and Porpatie, General Commissioner of Lyffeland, and chief General of the Army of the great Dukedom of Lytawe. To all and singular, to whom it may appertain, or that shall read these Presents, I do let to weet, that whereas William Bardwell, William King, and Alexander Child English Gentlemen, came with three Ships at Riga, when the Earl of Mansfielde General of the Army of Duke Charles Suderman, periniuriously breaking the Truce, made war in Lyffeland, I held them there, and employed them in the service of War for the most excellent King of Poland, my most gracious Lord, and they undertook to defend the Dunn, wherein they did behave themselves very faithfully, manfully and valiantly, so that the said Earl of Mansfield was often by them driven back again to his great loss and shame, and likewise he was often assaulted by them, so that he lost not only his strength of men and his courage, but also lost some Ships with many men and goods, which the said Englishmen with a memorable courage, and to the notable glory of the English Nation, did set on fire and burn. And therefore I have thought good to grant unto them this Testimonial, to the end that they may have great thanks for their deserts, purchased by their good renown and name▪ and that others may see, that as fame & immortality belongeth chiefly to noble minds, so also it is gotten by virtuous and valiant deeds:  
Written in the Camp at the new Mill in Lyffeland the seventeenth of November, Anno Domini 1608. And is subscribed by johannes Carolus Chodkiewicke, manu propria, and sealed with a Seal in Red wax, Printed thereupon, Ita testatur Carolus Demetrius, Notarius Publicus.   

THE ORIGINAL GROUND OF The present Wars of Swethen.  

Chap. I. The dangerous plots laid against Gustovus in the life time of his Father: His flight to Lubeck in Germany in the habit of a slave, His strange entertainment there, etc.  
THis is like a brief Chronicle, that comprehends in it much matter in few lines, and various business in little circumstance. It presents to your reading the designs, and affairs of a spacious kingdom, and reacheth to the beginning of many years past. Understand therefore that the Country of Swethen, before if was advanced to the dignity of a kingdom, by the allowance of them Empire, and general consent of their own State, was a long time governed by the authority of four Dukes, bearing the Titles of the four Provinces, into which the Country is divided, The first is the Dukedom of Doland, having in it a Regal Castle, called Vpsale, where the kings of Swethland be Crowned and buried. The second is the Dukedom of Newland, where the Castle of Newkeeping stands. The third is the Dukedom of Finland, where the Duke's seat is called, Oua Castle. The fourth is Warmland, where stands the Castle of waste upon the Mediterrenian Sea; being the strength, and Bulwark of the kingdom. The Country being (as I say) a long time ruled by these four Dukes, in the kind of an aristocraty, that is, The government of the Nobility, as was the government of the first and former Roman Peers and Consuls: was in the end of the Reign of Henry 7. King of England, made a Monarchy or kingly government.  
The first Monarch or King hereof, was called Gismond. whose Son, named Gustovus succeeded his Father in the Kingdom. This Gustovus (being in the life time of his Father, Duke of Doland) was a Prince very absolute, both in the perfections of his body, and his mind, excellently composed in the one, and honourably disposed in the other. Of an indifferent stature, neither too high, nor too low. His complexion sanguine, his hair bright, his countenance cheerful, and pleasant to look upon, full of grace, and Majesty. In war stout, and industrious, in Counsel wise and full of respect, in the Court he carried such a Port and State, as attracted all eyes to gaze upon him. In private places full of affability and delightsome recreation: To conclude, it seemed that Nature and virtue had both joined together to frame in him the most absolute pattern of a Prince in his time. But as no excellency whatsoever is without malignant opposites, so this Prince found that old saying to be true, Virtutis comes invidia, plerunque bonos insectatur. For the Dukes of the other Three Provinces, being joined with him in Commission (for you must understand, that the four Dukes did still retain their titles, and authority under the King, as the Senate of Rome did theirs under the sovereignty of Caesar, though it were subordinate:) The other three (I say) envying that greatness, love, and opinion, which his virtues, as well as the Nobiliti●e of his blood had got him, sought by many devices to betray him, whom no honourable mind, but would have defended, and to this end, they bent all their courses: A plot (no doubt) full of honour and regard unto the State, the project whereof was either the murder, or disinheritance of so lawful a Prince; falsehood and Envy the accusers, Suggession and Subornation the informers. Thus was the plot laid, The Queen (being mother in law of Gustovus, and having a Son by the King, and borne since the kingdom was erected) as far as she durst (for she yet feared the greatness of Gustovus) did many times buzz matters of jealousy and suspicion into the King's ears, of his sons carriage of himself in the kingdom, which at first he did not either believe, or dissemble. The three Dukes knowing the queens mind towards the Prince, added fuel to her fire, alleging that she should never find a sure establishment for herself and her son in the kingdom, if Gustovus were not made away. The heart, that before began to burn with this desire, was now more incensed, having those three Noblemen, the principal counsellors of State in the kingdom, to further her intendments. The Queen being thoroughly instructed by the Lords, takes the advantage of time, in her complaint to the king, Tells him that his son aspired, and would shortly aspire against him, that he affected popularity, received like Absolom his subjects Petitions, not in love, but Ambition: That he kept a Court, and Port greater than the King, and that all his actions did more savour of Sovereignty, than subjection. The Lords, they second the Queen in her unjust information, allege matters probable to confirm it, The King believes, and in the error thereof, hates Truth, embraceth Treason. Thus all being inverted, Nature rebels in the Father, but Loyalty remains in the Son▪ The plot was hereupon laid for his apprehension, Gustovus being then at Court, who noting a strange alteration in his Father's countenance towards him, began to suspect the drift of the Queen, upon the distrust of the Noblemen about her: Himself being almost abandoned, deviseth with himself how to avoid the danger. A Gentleman of the Kings, comes secretly to Gustovus, and tells him that the plot was laid that night, for his Attainder. The Prince being amazed at the sudden immivence of such a peril, posteth presently from the Court with a few of his Retinue, and the next day recovers his Dukedom of Doland, where he meant to stay, till he heard further of the Kings proceedings. His departure was soon made known, at which the Queen, and the Lords (though they missed of their purpose) were not much sorry, foreknowing that his sudden flight from the Court in that manner, would strongly confirm their accusation. The King by them again is incensed, and messengers sent into Doland, by whom the Prince was Summoned by a certain day to make his appearance in Vpsale Castle: which the Prince refuseth to do: affirming by his submissive Letters to the King, that though he knew his cause to be just, and his heart loyal, no probable suspicion of any misdemenour from him, either in act, or intent, that yet nevertheless he durst not hazard his life in the heat of the king's displeasure, for that he knew his adversaries were so great in power, and in so gracious account, that it would be an easy matter to have his majesties grace, and Nature herself perverted to his untimely and unjust destruction: And that the only cause why he retired himself into his own Country, was to stay the time, until these mists of his majesties jealousy and suspicion were blown away, that the Sun of his allegiance might shine clear, far from the clouds of all distrust, or disloyalty. This answer being returned, but not accepted, the King by the Queen's continual instigations was more, and more provoked, insomuch that a great power was suddenly raised to fetch him by violence out of his Dukedom. Which the Prince perceiving, and being neither able, nor willing to resist his Father's forces, gives way to necessity, and in the habit of a slave, purposeth secretly to go into Germany. And having past some dangers in his flight by the King's pursuers, at last he crossed the seas, and holding on his course for Lubeck in Germany, not many days safely arrived there, All this while he kept his disguise, for though he knew that the Lubeckers were heretofore beholding to him, yet he doubted what minds they would put on in this change of fortune, Remembering Pompey's usage in his flight by Ptolemy King of Egypt, and the like of Hannibal by Prusius king of Bithynia.   

Chap. II. Gustovus is discovered in Lubeck: The Lubeckers take his part, The King his Father dies, He recovers by their means the Kingdom of Swethland.  
THe news (being arrived in Germany) of Gu●tovus his flight out of Swethland, before his coming thither, was diversly entertained in Lubeck: Some pitied the state and condition of the young Prince, that so Noble a Gentleman, so full of hope, and expectation, even in the prime of his youth, should in this vile manner suffer violence: Others spoke against him, supposing that his own natural Father, and others of his blood, would not in this manner have proceeded against him, if he had not shown himself dangerous unto the State, as the minds of the people are in this case diversly distracted. The Prince after his coming to Lubeck stayed certain days in a common Inn, not daring to discover himself, and to avoid the suspicion of a stranger in such common places, found means to prefer himself unto a rich Merchant of the Town (if such a place in the meanness of his fortune at that time may be called preferment.) Being there entertained, he contented himself to do any bodily labour in the house, striving to suit his mind unto his misery, yet could he not so well counterfeit this part of his sinister fortune, but that the Merchant did soon suppose him to be a better man, than he seemed to be, and perhaps the man he was. So hard a thing it is for Nature to learn to forget her custom. Staying some few months in the Merchant's house, he heard of a Gasant sent from the king to the State of Lubeck, being supposed he would bend his course thither. The tenor of the Gasants' message, was to deliver to the Lubeckers that the king's desire was, that either they should not entertain him at all, or else send him back to Swethland, for that he was known and proclaimed to be an enemy. But they being at that time ignorant of the Princes abiding, answered for the time to those things, that might stand with the King's pleasure. The Gasant being dispatched, Gustovus lived in a continual fear of being discovered, as well for that many great men in the Town had before seen him in Swethland, and might then remember him: As also for that his Master would many times pry into his countenance, and behaviour, and utter strange words, and show strange passions, even in his presence, sometimes repeating the name of Gustovus.  
The Prince holding thus a Wolf by the ears, in doubt whether to stay or go, (in both which he found danger) was wondrously perplexed: Sometimes he thought to discover himself, opposing his mind against the worst of fortune, that if the Town did betray him, his blood should be shed in Innocence, and he be rid of that torment: wherein his mind was diversly distracted betwixt Hope, and Fear, and Fear the predominant: but at last resolving with himself to stay, he still framed his mind unto his business. One day cleaving of wood, in the straining of his body, a button that held the flap of his jerken, brake, and there withal a little Chain of gold, whereon did hang a jewel of inestimable price, fell from his neck: Which a maid servant in the house (being by) perceiving, was desirous to see it: but he suddenly snatching it up, told her that it was a thing of no worth, but given him by a friend of his, in the remembrance of her. The maid dissembled her opinion for the present, but soon after told it to her master. The Merchant upon this accident, confirms his former suspicion, and having now matter more relative than before, informed the State of Lubeck with this circumstance. The Burgomasters of the Town, sitting then in Counsel, sent for the stranger by a guard, to come before them, How the Message was entertained by the Prince, let them judge that have undergone the like adventure. There was no denial, nor possibility of escape, Obey he must, And it is a hard thing when Princes must obey. Being brought before the Magistrates, it was demanded of whence he was? he answered, of Swethen. They asked him of what degree? He told them, as mean in birth as in fortune: what moved you (quoth they) to forsake your Country? The Prince replied, my unkind usage there. A principal Senator of the Town looking all this while steadfastly upon his countenance, perceived that it was Gustovus, and whispering the rest in the ear, assured them, that it was the Prince. The matter was before concluded what they meant to do, Whereupon this great Citizen began to speak in this manner. Your birth (quoth he) is far better than your fortune, Therein you dissembled, but your fortune bears the blame, your first and last answer is true, for we know that you are of Swethland, and your name is Prince Gustovus, and the unkind usage of your Country hath driven you from thence: what we mean to do, you shall understand shortly. In the mean time repose yourself securely and hopefully in the ruler's house. The Prince acknowledged himself, and thanked them for these signs of their good will. And if you shall find (quoth he) my protection, or defence to prove dangerous unto your State, Let my life rid you from that fear: I shall be well content, so I may free you from danger, to be your Sacrifice; Whereupon they all embraced him, with the tears standing in their eyes, every one honouring him▪ and putting him in great hope and comfort, They caused him presently to be invested with royal ornaments and in all honourable and loving manner, conveyed him that night to the ruler's house. The Prince stayed as prisoner, but honourably attended about two years in Lubeck. During which time, the king his Father sent divers Gasants with fair words, and large promises to have him delivered, but it would never be granted; Howbeit they promised that they would keep him safe from attempting any innovation. The Prince during his stay there would often visit his old master, whom he would alwa●es call his kind master, affirming that if his discovery had not been made known, he could as contentedly have lived a poor servant in his house▪ as he did then a princely prisoner in the Town: The Merchant would many times tell him, he had much ado, to keep himself, from the sin of pride, for that it was his fortune, to be master of such a servant.  
Within two years after, the king his Father died, and the State of the Country proclaimed the Queen's Son, King of Swethland. Gustovus had quickly intelligence thereof, as such news flies ever with the Swallows wings, receives Letters from many Noble men, and other of his friends in the Country, wherein he was advised to use all means possible for his return, with assured confidence of their assistance The Prince shows the Letters to the Lubeckers, solicits them in his own behalf for aid, gives them princely pomises of their requital. The Prince returns to Swethen full of hope and encouragement, His friends meet him in great multitudes with all signs of love and obedience: His enemies are dispersed without battle: some fled, some taken prisoners, the Queen with her son conveyed to Vpsale Castle, The three Dukes beheated, and all the rest pardoned. When all things were established, and the sums of money paid back to the Lubeckers, Gustovus was shortly after with all solemnity Crowned king of Swethland, and not long after was honourably married out of Germany, His Queen being nobly borne in that Country, By whom he had four sons: Prince Erick the eldest, Duke of Doland, john Duke of Finland, Magnus' Duke of Warmland, and Charles the youngest Duke of Estergutland, that now lives and enjoys the Crown of Swethland.  
This Gustovus Reigned peaceably and happily, Laden with many years, but with many more Trophies of honours, The care and love he bore unto his subjects was well seen in their reciprocal respect to him. His sons brought up in all princely knowledge, acknowledged faithfully their natural duties during his life, Though after his death they fell at unnatural debate, one with another.  
In the last of his years he showed the best of his affections, different from the observance taken in other Princes, who after a long continued Sovereignty, do much decline from the gentle behaviours of their beginnings. But at last (as every thing is unstable, & each estate, that hath being in this world, holds his uncertainty) This noble king deceased, at that time, wherein his life was most desired of his subjects: whose love had been the like unto his sons, had it not been crossed by the nature of the tumultuous times that followed: The dead corpse being now the sad remnant of a king, was with all solemnity conveyed and interred in Vpsale Castle: His friends following it with all tokens of sorrow, calling him the prop and protector of Religion, the defender and preserver of his Country, the honour and glory of the Swethen Nation. His fame went before him, dilating his Noble acts, and princely virtues, that (not buried in the grave with him) returned back, posting through the world, and still sounding forth the praises of Gustovus, whose name shall never die, so long as the memory of the Swethen State endures.   

CHAP. III. Ericke is crowned King of Swethland, after the death and Funeral of his Father: A marriage is plotted with Elizabeth Queen of England, That failing another is tendered to the daughter of the King of Poland, His brother Duke john conspires against him.  
AFter the death of Gustovus, Erick his eldest son is with all general applause, and the Country's ceremony, crowned king of Swethland about the year of our Lord 1559. and in the same year an overture of marriage was made with Elizabeth Queen of England in the beginning of her reign. Duke john his brother sent Ambassador (princely appointed) in this negotiation, who safely arriving in England with his whole Fleet, was honourably entertained. Howbeit the matter of his Embassage, was rather flattered, then granted, rather fairly countenanced, then embraced, For some noble men at that time, great in their places, either in their own respects, or the honour of the Queen, stood against it, But the Queen herself did fairly entreat the Prince, royally feasted him, gave him many princely gifts, Told him in conclusion, that she took the Tenor of his Embassage in very gracious manner: Sent kind commendations to the king his Brother, with this hopeful message, that if it pleased him to take the pains to come into England, she would take such order for his entertainment, that he should have no just cause to return discontent. For (saith she) I have made this vow, never to con●ract myself to any, whom I have not first seen. The Duke thus furnished with this answer▪ takes his leave, imbarkes himself, boyseth sail, arrives in Swethland, and delivers to the longing languishing King this hopeful doubtful answer▪ of the Queen. The young King embraceth this news, and his brother for them, flatters his fancy, kisseth the queens picture, beguiles imagination, builds Castles in the air, rigs his Fleet at Sea, exhausteth his Treasure, makes himself poor to enrich his hope, which proved indeed, far above his Fortune. The Winter following was spent in this preparation for England: During which time Frederik then king of Denmark, a Wise and politic Prince stoodmuch against this Alliance with England, foreseeing the danger that might redound to him in his neighbour's marriage, with so potent a Princess: sendeth Ambassadors to King Erick, showing both the inconvenience that would happen by marriage in a Country so far remote, as also the dangers that were like to ensue, in joining with a Queen, more strong than himself. But the king gave a deaf ear to this Embassage, Continuing his preparations still for England: Some say, that in that Winter riding between Vpsale, and waste Castle, a Maid of excellent beauty, but obscure parentage, whose name was Gondola coming amongst others to behold the king, who by chance, casting his eyes upon her, was so suddenly ensnared in her beauty, that that poison which he drew then into his heart by his eyes, did so corrupt the whole body of his affairs, that at last he lost both his life▪ and kingdom: but others say it was the winter after. But to return to our voyage for England, The kings fleet being royalty rigged, and all things ready for so great a business, the king took shipping about the beginning of May▪ leaving Duke john his brother Vicegerent in his place, and sailing along the Coasts of Norway, Report saith that Frederick king of Denmark had procured certain Witches in that Country to drown, or disperse the Fleet of king Erick, and by their spells, and devilish incantations to Confound this intended Uoyage, whether this be true or no, I know not, but this is certain, that the king being upon the coast of Norway, such a strange foggy, thickness did so clothe the air that the king's Fleet had soon lost sight of one another: And then followed such horrible thunders, and unheard of Tempests, that it seemed heaven and earth had met together in the disturbance of this intendment. The king being at his wits end long before he came to his ways end was so perplexed in his thoughts, that he knew not what to do, either to go forward or to return: The sight of the Eye was so taken away by the the thickness of Air, the beneunt of the Ear was confounded by the noise of the thunder, the waters rose so high as if they meant to kiss the Clouds: No light but what the flashes of lightning made which amazed them all, the rain fell so thick that they could scarce keep the Hatches, the master calls to the Boatson, and is not heard, the Sternesman cries to the Master, and is not regarded. Three days together, continued these three nights of darkness, wherein was seen neither sun Moon, nor star: the kings Fleet was diversly dispersed, some into the coast of Denmark others back again into Swetland, the king himself upon the Coast of Norway looks every hour for his burial in the Sea. At last entering into cogitation with himself, he thought that God had suffered his pride to be thus punished, for that he undertook a Marriage with such a Queen, whose fame and glory was so great, as well from her State, and government, as for the riches and strength of her Crown, and kingdom: that entering into cosideration of it, he held himself much unworthy of such a fortune. Upon this, the king rashly vows that if it would please God to deliver him from that danger, he would give over his over high attempt, return into his Country and learn hereafter to suit his desires to his estate. At last these storms have end, the king returns according to his vow, shortly after arrives in Swethland, And thus failed this Negotiation for England.  
The king soon after his landing begins (say some) renews (say others) his love to his fair Gondola: that afterward proved as fatal to him, as Cleopatra's love to Anthony: His eyes were seldom off either her person or her picture: His mind museth on nothing but the pleasures of her body, his tongue speaks of nothing but her delights, and praises; all public affairs are abandoned, the palaces are like a wilderness desolate, the Court is kept where Gondola hath her biding; reason, and regard of government, are now banished, pleasure and sensuality made his Counsellors of Estate. The Noble men would oftentimes advise him, but all in vain, his brother Duke john did still smooth the King's humours, not as being enamoured o● his delights, but as from hence drawing a subject that happily hereafter might serve his turn, in case the Nobility (as they began a little) should afterwards wholly withdraw their affections from him. Thus whilst the king follows his pleasure's Duke john pursues his purposes, would oftentimes complain to certain of the Rexen-Roade, which we call The Blood Royal, of his brothers effeminate and unlikingly government, but especially to Duke Charles his youngest brother, yet no further engaging himself to danger then he knew means how to wind out again. Not long after, another Marriage was tendered of the Polands Daughter, which the king Coulorably entertained to satisfy his Nobility, whilst his heart doted upon his Paramour. Duke john his brother was employed in this business, and it fell out as he desired: For if the cards were dealt aright, he might happily himself marry the Polands daughter. And thus with a false heart taking a fair leave of the king his brother being furnished with all accoutrements fit for such a business shortly after arrived in the Court of Poland, where after the solemnity of such entertainments he delivered his Message with such a Majestic grace both in his speech, countenance and carriage of himself (as sure he was a most accomplished Gentleman) that it won him great commendations in the king's Court especially with the young princess, in whose tender heart there was such an inward breach made, as was soon outwardly perceived, for her eyes that conveyed these pretty assaults unto her heart, did soon betray her hidden affections: which the Duke perceiving lays hold upon the occasion, Wins by rewards many tongues to speaken in his behalf, joys with the greatest of the King's Counsel, and in especial with one Fe●nsbecke Duke of Leif-lande. He told them that the condition of his Country's disordered estate, occasioned by the discordant disposition of his brother, moved him rather to look with a public, than a private eye: If he ought nature and duty to his Brother, he ought no less unto his Country, and it was his country's cause (to the which he was most bound) that made him inveigh against his brother? Let no man (quoth he) rashly ce●sure me, but comparing the State of the kingdom to the condition of the King, let him then judge whether all is not like to ruin, if prevention be not made, which in the kings person (quoth he) will never be, for that he seems to be buried in his his own delights, and the breath which he himself should draw, lies not in his own, but in another's body. The most and best part of the Nobility being by these and the like suggestions won unto his party, a way was quickly made for the Duke to Woo for himself, which was not long a doing for the heart, that was already so strongly assaulted, was soon framed to yield. To be short the young Duke Weds and beds the princess with great honour, and delight, so easily is the policy of a state drawn to obey the necessity of the time: the news hereof is soon brought to Swethland, wherein the wise looked into the danger of the King, how be it the King himself foresaw no peril: But as a Man wholly devoted to his delights, doth against the advise of all his friends, quickly after Marry the said Gondola, whereby he did suddenly run into such a scandalous hatred of his own Subjects, that they ever after held him unworthy of his Crown and kingdom: Within a year after his Marriage he had a Son, not long after whose birth Duke john having assured promises from his youngest brother Duke Charles, procures an Army to be levied by the King of Poland, his Father in law, and arriving in the Dukedom of Estergutland, was lovingly entertained of his brother Duke Charles, who joining their forces together, having also the aid of other Noble Men in the Country, gave battle to his brother King Ericke, who being overcome, and flying to Stock-holand, was there by his two brothers taken, and made away, no man ever knew how. A noble man in the Country, brother to Herrerick Gusterson, and dear unto the King was at that time honourably slain in the defence of his Prince. The Queen had before sent her young Son out of the Land, foreseeing the danger that was like to happen. Who now lives as an Exile in the great Duke of Moscovias' Court, and the Queen herself confined to Stickborrow Castle, where she yet lives a sad and solitary life. Thus ended the unfortunate Reign of King Erick, who might long have lived and governed in the Land, had he but subdued his own affections.   

CHAP. FOUR King john is crowned king of Swethland: hath a Son borne called Sigismond: The King of Poland dies: young Sigismond is sent for to be King of Poland: He stays there certain years till the death of his Father, and is then sent for by his Uncle Duke Charles to receive the Crown and kingdom of Swethland.  
DUke john having thus by his brother's murder attained unto the Crown, disposeth with his best Counsel the affairs of the kingdom, disperseth his Army, satisfies his Subjects in the cause of these indirect proceedings, against his brother, and having set all things in order, sendeth for this Queen out of Poland, who with an honourable train being conducted into Swethland, was there Royally entertained, and shortly after with Duke john her husband, in all princely manner, Crowned King and Queen of Swethland at Vpsale Castle: Many Statutes he repealed which the King his brother had made, being found prejudicial unto the Country, and others he enacted, that were held more profitable: To all Suitors he showed himself very gentle and gracious: And because the treasure of the kingdom was much exhauste in his expedition into Poland, he was driven to borrow many great Sums of money both there, and of his Friends at home: He kept a Princely port, and was very liberal in his rewards, delighting much in all Martial exerrises. His liberality was equal to that which was so highly commended in a worthy Captain of Thebes, who when he had obtained a victory against the Lacedæmonians, took only of all the spoil but one sword, distributing the rest amongst his Soldiers, saying, Fellows in Arms this I Challenge because I wrong it out of the hand of mine Enemy. Whatsoever else is yours, as the reward of your travels, for, the Theban Senators war for honour, not for treasure. The Mercenary Man that beareth Arms for hire, and for his ordinary pay, feareth not to venture his life in the face of his Enemy, having but his wages, hath but his due: So that if hope of spoil, and the bounty of his Captain did not encourage him in his attempts, he would both doubt the danger of his person and scorn for so little gain to ran upon such imminent perils. His liberality towards his associates in Arms, and his experient wisdom and valour in Martial enterprises made him both honoured feared, and held in worthy estimation. Thus by this and his other virtues Duke john in short time Crept into the hearts of his Subjects. The first year of his reign the Queen brought him a goodly Boy which was Christened by the name of Sigismond, the Emperor being his Godfather, which Sisgismond, is now King of Poland. About the Tenth year of his reign, King john made an honourable journey into Russia, upon the breach of a League made betwixt them. From whence he returned victorious. The rest of his reign was quiet and peaceable: And set a side the stain of his brother's death, he was doubtless a most excellent Prince and worthy of the Crown and kingdom, and although there were many times jars betwixt him, and his brother Duke Charles, yet always the matter was so handled, that they were soon reconciled again. By which were cut off all occasions of Civil war. In the twelfth year of his reign his father in law the King of Poland dies, for whose death the Queen his daughter mourned heavily. The young Prince Sigismond her Son was elected King of Poland, and with an honourable convoy being guarded thither was with all solemnity in all Princely manner Crown King of Poland: Shortly after Marries honourably into the house of Austria; and in the twelfth year of his reign in Poland, King john his Father dies: whose death being much bewailed of his subjects, he was with appertaining solemnity buried in the Chapel of the Kings in the Castle of Vpsale. Duke Charles of Estergutland after the death of his brother sends into Poland for his Nephew Sigismond to come to receive the Crown of Swethland, Sigismond takes heavily the death of his Father, and divines before hand of the troubles that followed in that kingdom: Great preparation is made for his journey into Swethland, and doubting of his uncles mind & projects, carrieth a great power of Poles with him to prevent all dangers. The king arrives safely in Sweathland, is with all honour and sign of love received by his uncle Duke Charles, and the rest of the Nobility of Swethland, He is honourably conveyed to Vpsale Castle, where he was lovingly received of the Queen his Mother, whom he comforteth being a sorrowful widow for the death of King john her husband. Shortly after he was crowned K. of Swethland without any disturbance. A Rex-day was held in the castle of Vpsale, where all things being established, Duke Charles is made vicegerent of the kingdom: having with him joined in Commission four Noblemen, of the Rexen-road whose names were Hergusten Bonner, Hersten Bonner, his brother, Herrerick Spare, and Hartor Belch: These four Noble men, being great in the kingdom but not very great with the Vicegerent, were of purpose joined by the King in commission with the Duke to curb or Control all over haughty and headstrong attempts, that the Duke might happily Commit by the greatness of his place and power in the absence of the King, who was then ready to return to Poland. The Duke perceives the drift, but dissembles it. before the King's departure, order was set down by the King with the Duke and the Commissioners for the payment of certain sums of money, which King john his Father did owe unto many Soldiers, that were yet unpaide since the time of expedition into Russia, and unto many Merchants of England, Scotland and other Nations for the prosecuting of that war. After all things were thus settled and ordered, the King returns to Poland, leaving behind him that fire that afterward consumed the peace of the whole Kingdom: for the Noblemen, the Commissioners being commanded by the King, (that was ever jealous of his Uncle Charles) to observe and inform his Majesty of the manner of his government, did so oppose themselves against him in all his proceed, and especially in the payment of this money, that the Duke plainly perceived, that this new government was but laid as a trap to ensnare his life, A Rex-day was holden at Vpsale, no order Concluded, nor money paid, and much ado there was to keep them from factions, the Commissioners would have these sums paid out of the subjects purses, the Duke out of the Common Treasury: which the commissioners refuse, alleging the King's want of money, The Duke writes faithfully, The Lords falsely to the King. To whom they intimate fear of innovation, and that the Duke by all likelihoods aimed at the Crown, that he had paid part of the money due to the Soldiers out of the Revenues of the Dukedom, to draw their affections to him, that he sought to further the State, and wealth of the Commons more than stood with the loyal nature of a Subject, that he kept the port and State of a King rather than a Deputy, and that it was not like he would long yield his honours unto Uassalage, whose fortunes in such a mind and State as his might attain to Sovereignty, if prevention were not speedily made. The Duke intercepts these letters, and sends them enclosed in his own unto the King, to whom he writes very humbly, and with all protestations of duty, and allegiance: the king receives the letters, but believes the Lords and dist●usteth the Duke, sendeth secretly to the Commissioners that they should suddenly surprise him, depose him from his government, and to that end he sent his authority: and finally to keep him prisoner, his wise and children, during life in a castle built of purpose for that stratagem within the dukedom of Litto: Oh that the nature of fortune should be so fickle and uncertain, never singular either in her frowns or favours, but that commonly in the height of any hope it produceth some cross accident of unhappy misfortune.  
The Duke notwithstanding having intelligence of this plot, began to look about him, hasted into his own dukedom and raised a great power of men, Some say that if he had but staid one hour longer in Vpsale, the plot had been effected, and the Duke utterly undone. The Lords were in a maze upon the Duke's departure, knowing that their devise was discovered, they now perceived their own weakness to resist the Duke, being in power, place and opinion, and far above them, And though they had the King's authority, yet was he far from them, and they near unto their danger, they knew not well what course to take, sometimes they purposed to fly to the King, and then they feared the ways were forelaid. To stay in the Castle of Vpsale were no safety, it being a place of pleasure, not of defence: whereupon they determined to depart from thence: Three of them unto the Castle of Wasten in the Dukedom of Finland, and Hartourbelk to Calmer Castle. Having these▪ Castles delivered unto them, they purposed to stay there to understand the Duke's proceedings, and in the mean time dispatched letters unto the King of the particulars of these troubles: The Duke (as I said before) having raised a great power of men, marcheth speedily towards the castle of Vpsale, but understanding of the Lords departure towards Wasten, bends his course thither. It is a world to see what numbers of men came unto the Duke from all parts proffeting their service to him: All which he gently welcomed. Some he entertained, and the rest sent home again with special charge to look unto the kings peace, signifying further that the cause why he was now up in Arms, was but to right himself of such wrongs done by those Lords, who neither loved the King nor him. The Lords that were in the Castle of Wasten understanding of the Duke's approach with such a power of men, suddenly forsook the castle, and not being able to defend it, fled in all haste to Poland, whom the Duke would not pursue, but taking the castle put in a strong Garrison, and presently hast●d to the castle of Calmer, which Hartourbelk had a little before taken in the King's name, who standing at defence and defiance with him, the Duke besiegeth both the City and castle, the citizens more willing to entertain him, then resist him. The Duke plants his ordinance against the Gates of the City, and thereupon the Citizens resisting the command of Hartour Belch, open the city Gates and recave him in: The Duke besiegeth the castle, and in short time by the help of the Town Wins it, taketh and keeps Hartour Belch prisoner, and dischargeth all the rest.  
From hence the Duke sent letters to the King, informing truly the cause of these troubles, That the unjust attempts of the Commissioners against him, did move him to raise these powers in defence of his state and liberty, not in the disturbance of his majesties peace, nor to make any innovation in the Land, & beseeching him that no false or feigned suggestions of his adversaries, might stand as a bar betwixt his majesties grace towards him and his own fidelity: Affirming further that it lay in his power to stop their passage into Poland and that he would at the King's pleasure disperse his forces, surrender up the castles, that he had taken, be content to resign his charge of government, to whomsoever it pleased the King, Provided that he might be assured of the quiet enjoyment and peaceable possession of such Lands and honours, as he was born unto by Nature: and this (quoth he) I learn of necessity, which teacheth every creature to defend itself.  
The King receives the Duke's letters, but gives no credit to his protestations. During the time of the Duke's stay in the City of Calmer, and understanding of many disorders, and misdemeanours that were committed in a Nunnery, standing in the Town, One day Came to visit the Nuns, accompanied with certain gentlemen of his house, and understanding some of their minds to be discontent with their orders, and some of their bodies well known to the Friars, dissolves the Nunnery, and transposeth the Nuns, according to their own disposing, Some into other nunneries, many to their Friends, the most to Marriages. The King by this time had answered the Duke's letters very coulorably, that he was sorry for the tarres that happened between him, and the Lords, That as soon as his business would give him leave, he would visit the Lords, and him. In the mean time he requested that he would deliver Hartourbelk, or entreat him kindly. The Duke though he believed not what the King had written, yet he receives the letters gladly, and honourably feasted the messenger. In this time another dangerous plot was laid, to entrap Duke Charles, and to enforce him Prisoner, in the Castle of Litto aforesaid, whereupon there were forces very secretly, and suddenly raised in Finland, The king having a purpose to win to that power, other forces that he meant himself to bring out of Poland, and appointed a day of meeting in Stockholland.   

CHAP. V. The Duke hath intelligence of the plots that the King and his adversaries had devised against him. He encounters part of the King's army, and discomforts them, with other accidents.  
THe Duke having intelligence of this dangerous plot, devised against him by the king, assured himself to find no favour at his hand & that no submission would serve the turn: For him to disperse h●s powers, and to stand rather upon the protestation of his allegiance then his guard, were to put his neck upon the block, and to endure the stroke: for raging streams are not stayed with gentle hands. Wherefore calling his friends about him, he told them that it was now no time to dally. That the king by his adversaries was so provoked against him, that nothing but his death or deprivation would satisfy the king's displeasure. These unwilling arms (quoth he) that I now bear, are for the defence of you, and my Country, unto which I owe my life, and whatsoever else is dear unto me. I see (quoth he) the drift of the king, and my adversaries, is to overthrow our customs, and to govern you according to the Polish Policy, which is unfit for any free state. To pursue this, and to lay heavy yokes upon your necks, my life is sought after, which I shall be always ready to spend or end to do you or my Country service.  
His friends embraced him, willed him to go forward, promised their aid, to the uttermost of their powers, and the Duke le's slip no time, but presently seizeth upon the Navy of Swhethland having it before under his command, marveling much that the King had not before that sent to seize upon it himself, but thereby belike he thought he should have ministered matter for the Duke to suspect his device, The Finland Fleet being upon the Coast some few days before the day appointed, the Duke having furnished the Navy with men and munition, took the Opportunity of Time, and with all expedition made haste to meet them before their joining with the King's power, with whom had they met, they had put the Duke to a great hazard, The Finland Fleet consisted of three score and ten sail most of them vessels of great burden, and in them 14 thousand fight men, the Duke's forces by Sea were scarce so many. The Duke divides his Navy into two parts, the Fiulinders into three. The Duke bearing as great a breadth in the front of his Navy, as his adversaries did, doubting lest he should be engirt. The charge being given by the Duke was semblably answered by the contrary party, and now the voice of the Ordinance, (that was many years a stranger in those parts) carried such hideous noise in the Land, as much amazed the quiet minds of the inhabitants, when they heard that the harvest of their Peace was now like to be reaped by the ungentle hand of war: Then began they to forethink the troubles that were like to follow these fearful beginnings, but happily not to remember the causes thereof: it is either a natural or Customary stupidity in man to be senseless in the understanding of their own offences, Pride, Blasphemy, Avarice, Extortion, Luxury, and other the like enormities are in particular men the general causes of the disturbance, nay sometimes of the depopulation of a whole kingdom, when the minds of Princes corrupted with Ambition are stirred up, though in their own respects, even by the power and sufferance of the almighty to plague (by war his consuming Minister) the unrepented sins of the people. But to return to Sea, where the fight continued little more than two hours, during which time the air was so troubled with smoke, that the ships at Sea could not see one another, and the beholders at land might judge by the eye, that they were turned into a cloud. But at last the Admiral of the Finlanders being struck between wind and water, did sink in the midst of them all: Their fleet began to take about to hoist up their Sails and fly, the Duke followed them as far as he durst, but being doubtful of the King's approach, made his return the sooner, Landed his powers, and hasted with his army to Stockholland.  
Upon his coming to Stockholland he understood of the Kings landing at Ca●mer Castle, his whole Navy consisting of a hundredth Sail, or there about, whereof there were eight and twenty English ships, which the King had hired of the merchants being then resident in that coast bearing in the whole Fleet eight and twenty thousand fight men: Duke Charles being advertised of the news, doubted what he were best to do, Sometimes he was in mind to give place unto his adversaries, considering the miseries that were like to attend this uncivil war, And though he knew himself well lined with friends, in the kingdom, and that it might be in his power to resist the king, yet when he reduced into his mind the Calamities that might happen unto the Land by the maintenance of this war, He did often persuade himself with Otho, rather to give place to Vitellius, then to resist a Tyrant to the overthrow of his Counter, but being otherwise advised by his friends, that counseled him either to take upon him the sovereignty, or at least to maintain himself in his place, as well for their lives as his own, having all gone so far that they could not retire without irrevocable danger, His courage overcoming his fear, and the respect of the generality above his own particular, he resolved to prosecute the war but yet in such manner, that all the world might understand he did it rather to defend himself then offend the king howsoever his acts might be mistaken. Whereupon the duke removes from Stock-holand into the heart of the country to a hold called the castle of Lynnkeeping. By the way the King had taken the castle of Calmer, and detained the Captain of the castle (placed there by the Duke) close prisoner. And though the Town was surely guarded by the King, and always by him forelaid, to intercept all news, yet a certain Townsman undertook to carry the Duke intelligence thereof, with the consent of the principal in the Town, such was the love they bore unto him. The Messenger because he could not pass the ports was let down at a privy, joining to the Town wall, and having past the king's Scowt-watch, that lay in divers places hovering about the Town, took so circumspectly the advantage of the time, that in two days he recovered the Duke's Army being upon march, to the castle of Linnekeeping, The tenor of his message was, that on no conditions he should trust the King, for that as well by the usage of his officers in the castle of Calmer, as other principal intelligence given to some (that loved the Duke too well to keep it close) that the king purposed his utter destruction, and that there was no agreement to be made but only coulorable (upon any reconcilement) to forego a further mischief. The Duke though sad to hear these news, yet embraced, and rewarded the messenger. And understanding there of the kings remove from Calmer to the castle of Sterborrow to his sister Preking Anne, he bends all his forces thither, and within three days after came within sight of the castle: he pitched his Tent within a mile of the Town, before he attempted any thing in any hostile manner, sent some of his principal friends unto the king, and humbly desired him to know the cause of th●se unjust wars undertaken: If the fault lay justly in the Duke or any of his adherents, they were content either to submit their lives to the law, or to the king's mercy, If any fault were supposed, or but suggested, they desired an indifferent judge: And if the fault were found (where in deed it lay) they desired the same upon their adversaries. Finally he besought his Majesty that he would measure the nature of ill tongues, not by their sound but by their quality, for there were some about him, that neither loved him nor them, nor the land. The king received these messages, gave fair but dissembled words, that if he would disperse his Army he would discharge his, Confirm unto him his place of government, and other offices he enjoyed in the kingdom, Provided that Hartourbelk whom he detained as a prisoner, might be delivered, and he with the rest of the Lords reconciled. The Duke answered to the first, that if it would please his Majesty to disperse his Army, he would do the like, and for the other upon due consideration he should find him conformable. Twelve days were thus spent in messages interchangeably between them The Duke meaning faithfully, the King otherwise, Both their Armies they still retained during which time, the trapp was laid to entrap the Duke. That upon an interuiewe betwixt them in the sight of both their Armies Fe●●becke Duke of Leif-lande should rush in, and upon the sudden surprise the Duke, take him prisoner, and carry him to the Castle aforesaid. But missing of his purpose being thoroughly countercharged by the Duke, his mind was much perplexed in the uncertain event of his expectations, His cogitations fought within themselves, when sometimes he would lay the fault upon such, as he employed in those businesses, Sometimes he would place one, sometimes displace another. In his own judgement thinking such a man fit to be a Commander and sometimes another: He would like one to day, and to morrow utterly distaste him. To submit he thought dishonourable, and worse than death, for by open disgraces, the fame of men grows odious. In this conflict of mind, the King retires with the Duke Fernsbecke to Steckborow, knowing that the fortune of war had not so done her worst, but that she might begin a new Tragedy, and the rather for that his strength was weakened in the former assaults, having lost two thousand of his men in the same: The Duke returning to the Leaguer, and resting there that night.  
The next day the son had no sooner stepped from the bed of Aurora, but the Duke's Fleet removes from Finland to Stock-borow, being distant an hundredth leagues. The Kings fleet lies in a ha●●n between two rocks. Duke Charles his Fleet riding in the Main, and the King perceiving how he was charged by Sea and Land began to be diversly distraughted, sometimes he resolves to undergo a mean estate, alleging that medium est tutissimum, and Auli ca vita, splendida miseria. Cares are the Contiunall Companions of a Crown, when rest remains in a low condition and fortune. Low shrubs feel least tempest, In valleys is heard least thunder. In Country rooms is great rest, and in little wealth the least disquiet. Dignity treadeth upon glass, and honour is like a fading herb, that when it bloometh most gorgeous than it blasteth. Sometimes he thought to disguise himself & with his clothes to change his thoughts, that being poorly attired, he might be merely minded, and measure his actions by the present fortune, not by his former estate. Yet in the summons of these divers thoughts and cogitations he had some respective regard of his honour, though all false, yet his heart should not faint, for the courage of a man is showed in his resolution. In the midst of his extremes he held it his safest course, to fly by night with all his power, sister, and friends, with a full purpose to attempt the winning of Wasten Castle, being three or four days journey from Steckborow. But the Duke that had waded through many dangers, and in many adventures both prosperous and lucky, had gotten such reputation, that he was highly preferred in the estimation of that Country put the King into such a Continual fear of his pursuit knowing his strength unable to match his Enemy.  
The Duke understanding the King to be unstaid in his resolution, and to stand thus wavering between war and peace (which daunted the hearts of his people to be seen in field, leads his Army, plants his ordinance against the Castle of Steckborow and takes the kings fleet with seven tun of Gold, and all his regal Ornaments. The King had conveyed himself to the Castle of Linnekeeping, and was there royally entertained, howbeit in the midst of Solemnities, the sad news of that unhappy accident was brought thither unto him: At the hearing & relation whereof, though he was much aghast, yet with that kingly courage that his unfortunate success had left him, he burst out into this or the like passion. If my moderation (quoth he) in prosperity had been answerable to the greatness of my birth, and state, or the success of my last attempts to the resolution of my mind, I might have come to Linnekeeping, in my accustomed honour, and Royalty, and not as a man thus wasted and spoiled, and to be rather gazed upon, then honourably entertained. But what cloud soever hath darkened my present state, yet have the heavens, and nature given me that▪ in birth & mind, which none can vanquish or deprive me of. I see that my enemies make their triumphs, the subject of my miseries, and in my calamity as in a mirro may be beheld their own glory: yet let them know this, that I am, and was a prince, furnished with strength of men, and habiliments of war, and what marvel is it, if it be my chance to lose, seeing experience teacheth, that the events of war are variable, and the success of policy guided by uncertain fates: The desire of sovereignty admits no limitation, and if Duke Charles must command all, than all must obey. For mine own part whilst I am able, I will make resistance, and will be unwilling to submit my neck to a servile yoke: For so far the law of nature alloweth every man to defend himself, and to withstand force by force. This passion of the King filled the people's hearts and eyes with wonder, and delight, and with their best comfort and encouragement they promised their joint performances of duty. Insomuch as the King did therewith attempt the taking of Wasten Castle. But he whom fortune had before strived to make unfortunate did in this also fail, and hath nothing left him to glory in that attempt, but his lossé of men, and of much expectation. These cross accidents sat near the King's heart, who with much cares and travels had wearled his spirits, and greatly spent the strength both of himself▪ and his people. For whatsoever he determined, was not carried with any such secret or politic course, but that by some means or other the Duke had some notice thereof, and still apprehended his drifts. For this was no sooner plotted, but the Duke sends letters secretly to the Captain, that he should not deliver the Castle with his privity.  
The King lying in Linnekeeping sends five hundredth men secretly to surprise the Castle, yet was the same able to defend itself as indeed it did, and the Captain therein performed the Duke's will, and retained his credit, without impeaches of his valour. Questionment were made whether they might enter into the Castle in the king's name, but a peremptory answer was returned, that without mandatory letters from the Duke, there was nothing there to be expected but resistance: upon this the king's mind was disquieted, and a world of inward Conflicts encountered his cogitations, as he stood doubtfully distracted, what he were best to do: at last as fire cannot he hid in straw, nor the nature of man so concealed, but that at last it will break out, and have his course: So fares it with the king, who perceiving his pleasure to be like Sicke-mens' wills that are parall (which having no hand nor seal, are the laws of a City written in dust, and are broken with the blast of every wind) commanded that forthwith the Duke and all his adherents, should be proclaimed to stand in the state and nature of Traitors.   

CHAP. VI The King's Army, and the Dukes join: Many on the King's side slain, and taken prisoners.  
IT Was not long before this news of the Kings proceedings, in this manner against the Duke was made known unto him: at which the Duke began to put on a furious countenance, able to amaze any that made attempts against him, and looking like Hercules when he aduan●te himself against Achelaus, he follows the King to Linnekeeping with all his power: 〈◊〉 in a mi●●y morning the morrow before Micha●●mas day, ryses early, calls his Soldiers together, divides his Army (consisting of fifteen thousand men) into three several bodies. One james Hill an English m●● 〈◊〉 the leading of the first: Captain Scot being his Lieutenant, ●ndreas Lemeston Leads the second the Duke himself with the thirty takes a wood within a mile of the King lodging: Here might you see these three, shine like three meteors in the firmament, all in steel, their Courts were camps and none Court●●●s, but Soldiers. Such effect did the fire of dissension work in the hearts of these Enemies. Fortune turned the wheel of the Swethen and Polish state with unsteady hand, and had now almost brought it to the point she meant they should sit: she took her favours from them? Or rather, to speak of a power that controls fortune, and whose very finger throws down kingdoms to utter confusion, or holds them up in their greatness, whether the general sins of the people deserved this, or whether the people were punished for the particular faults of the Princes, or for what other causes soever, the rod of vengeance was laid upon these Nations, It is in man to think upon, and fear, but not to examine. Yet sure it is, that as fire catching hold at first but of some mean cottage in some end or corner of a City, hath oftentimes (ere the fury of it could be put out) swallowed up in his flames the goodliest and most beautiful buildings, that stood even farthest out of reach: So did the Clouds of dissension burst open th●ir veins, and let fall the poison of them on these several kingdoms.  
In the expedition of these wars, one Lucas Righter undertakes to perform the Duke's pleasure in the proclamation of his intended proceedings unto the King's Army, (which consisted of four and twenty thousand men). The tenor of the Duke's proclamation made known his grievances which although it be not answered to expectation, Yet Lucas Righter making his return, is royally rewarded by the Duke, and appointed that day to attend the Duke's person. The next day following the mist breaks up, and Armies discover one another, A river being betwixt the King and the Duke, right thousand of the King's Soldiers were appointed to make good the bridge. Captain Scot full of Courage and valour, gives the Charge, but receives the overthrow: the like success had Captain Hill Andreas Lemerson seconds them, and bides the Shock.  
The Duke perceiving this, issues out of the wood alone heartens his Soldiers, fills his ordinance (wanting shot) with pibbie stones, and makes choice to encamp himself and his host, even on the top of a Hill naturally defenced from passage and if any were, those he stoppped up with heaps of stones in manner of a Kampier: near the foot whereof ran a River, with an uncertain ford▪ where a troup of his ●●st Soldiers were set in order to receive the Enemy, and the more to animate the minds of his men, the leaders went about exhorting, and encouraging the Soldiers, taking all occasion of fear from them, and putting them in hope with all inducements of war. And the Duke himself coursing hither and thither, protested that that day should be the full end of their misfortunes, and the beginning of their happiness, or else his own perpetual servitude and bondage. The Soldiers upon this showed as great forwardness, and as Echoes redoubled his words, vowing never to yield, either for wounds or for life, which they were all ready to sacrifice in the cause of their Country: which resolution appeared in the squadron of Captain Hill, who leading his Army, met the Enemy with such a shower of shot, that many were slain, and many wounded: Andrea's Lemerson gives the second charge, and that with so fierce an encounter, that he seizeth upon the enemy's ordinance, and turns the same upon them. In this conflict the kings Army is discomfited, eight thousand of them being slain, drowned, and taken Prisoners. Upon this sad success, the King being in the Castle of Linnekeeping calls a Parley. The Duke upon knowledge of the King's pleasure, is willing to entertain it, Messengers are sent interchangeably, and upon hearing and debating the grievances one of another, the conditions are agreed upon, the Duke to have pardon for what was past, and whereas he had one of his adversaries already in his custody, it was likewise agreed, that he should have the other These delivered into his hands, being the four Commissioners that disturbed the peace of Swethen, which was performed accordingly, so as the Duke detains them prisoners with their wines and children: After this friendly coherence, the Duke rides to the King with sixteen of his men, leaving charge notwithstanding with Lemerson, that if he returned not, nor sent word to the contrary within half an hour, he should come to him with his whole Army. The King and the Duke do so well concord and agree, as they dine together, and are feasted very royally: all matters are pacified on either side, so as a Rex-day is appointed, and it is determined that the King shall have his own, the Duke his, and the disturbers of the peace their due. The King returneth to Steckborow to his Fleet, the Duke to Carborowgh where the Duchess lay. The Peace being thus concluded, the Duke dismisseth his Soldiers, and receives Letters from the King, ●hat he purposed to pass into his Country with a thousand men, and desires provision for them: The Duke receives his message very kindly, and returns this answer to the King, that if it pleased him, he should find provision for two thousand. As this provision was preparing, Fernsbecke Duke of Liefland persuades the King to return with his power to Poland, and not to stand to the Articles of agreement, but to renew the war, alleging that he could never be absolute King of Swethen, so long as D. Charles lived: And this was the only ground of the Civil war that followed.   

CHAP. VII. The King returns to Poland, Duke Charles renews the war against the King his Nephew, wins the City and Castle of Calmer, and settleth the state of the Dukedom of Finland.  
THe King having thus falsified his own promise, and deceived the Duke's expectation, returned with all expedition into Poland, landing at Dansk with his Army, leaving the Castle of Calmer and certain other holds adjoining, strongly manned and victualled for a year: Duke Charles being much discontented with this unkingly breach of his nephews promise, knew now that it was no time to capitulate, and that no solicitation, nor any submissive means would serve to appease the King's anger, and to reintegrate himself into his love and good opinion, called his chief friends about him, to have their advise what was best to be done in this weighty business: They all agreed that if it were possible they should recover the Castle of Calmer that winter, and certain other holds lately manned and victualled by the King: whereupon the Duke with his Army marcheth to Greenekeeping, a little City in Swethland, where having certain days rested and refreshed his Army, he hasted to besiege the Castle of Calmer. The City being indefensible, yielded unto him at his first approach: The Duke having made his entrance into the City, delivered fair speeches to the Citizens, the just cause that was given him to renew the war, and that no ambitious desire or turbulent spirit of his own, drew him so violently to these actions of hostility, but that he was full Master of his own affections, and the necessity of the time in the kings incensed hate against him, did move him to these Arms, that being (quoth he) at the first but private betwixt him and the three Dukes his adversaries, that always maligned his estate, might very well without the general disturbance of both kingdumes, have been ended long ago, and nexther he held guilty, nor the land defiled with the shedding so much Polish and Swethish blood, But sith the king had so unkindly taken part with strangers against a kinsman, and had so unnaturally laid their treacherous plots against his loyalty, nature and justice were the fair protectors of his quarrels, that should defend the equity of his cause against the mouth of envy, or any such calumnious tongues whatsoever.  
The Citizens that always affect peace rather than war, looking into the condition of the disturbed States, were much perpleed in mind, and severally distracted in their opinions, being uncertain how to stand affected: They knew that the right and title was in the King, but the power and authority in the Duke: The king had the command of the Castle, the Duke the possession of the City. Their fear exceeded their distrust, for both the Duke's Army that lay in the City committed many outrages, notwithstanding the Duke's strict Proclamation, and again the ordinance of the Castle augmented their fear, and if Hergusten Boner that commanded the Castle had had his will, the ordinance had been bend against the Town. The Duke satisfying aswell as he could the fear of the Citizens, beleaguers the Castle of Calmer, there being a great mutiny within the Castle betwixt the Poles and the Swethians, which served excellently well for the Duke, for Hergusten Boner that commanded the Castle under the King, agreed with the Poles to have battered the City, which the Swethean Soldiers resisted, insomuch that from words they fell to blows, in which conflict the Swethens having the better, took Hergusten Boner Prisoner, together with all the Poles, being to the number of three hundredth, and knowing this Act to be unanswerable to the King, submitted themselves, yielded the Castle, and gave up their Prisoners to Duke Charles. The Duke gently entertains all but Hergusten Boner (his old enemy) whom he sent Prisoner to Greephollam, where he remains to this day. All the Poles he sent new appareled with white staves in their hands, fairly entreated, to the King. The Duke having thus fortunately recovered the City, and Castle of Calmer, did strongly Man them both, and comforting the Ditizens in the best manner he could, with the rest of his Army marched into the Dukedom of Finland, it being a part of Swethland, bordering upon Russia, and there beleaguered the Castle of Oua, and in few days wan it, still fairly entreating the kings Soldiers, which in all places wan him great commendations, & having in short time quieted the Dukedom returned back with his Army to Stockehollam, where he rested the remainder of that winter.   

Chap. VIII Duke Charles invades the Dukedom of Liefland, surpriseth most of the Towns and Castles of that country, and is in a manner absolute possessor of the whole Dukedom.  
DUke Charles knowing his principal adversary with the King to be Fernes beck, Duke of Liefland, (which country notwithstanding it joineth with Swethland in law and language, had neverthe less a kind of absolute power and authority within itself) thought it best to begin the war in that country, that the eye of his adversaries looking into his actions there, the kings forces might not be bend against his own country, the peace whereof he much desired, and to this end in the beginning of the Summer following having reinforced his Army, Marched into the dukedom of Liefland, The chief City whereof called Ravell yielded unto him, into the which he triumphantly entered. The Citizens themselves, whether for fear of his power, or love of his person, showed such tokens of submissive duty, that there little letted a Contestation of their allegiance. Having there rested certain days he raiseth his Army and marcheth towards the Castle of Whettensten, which in short time was yielded unto him. From thence he came to the City of Perno, which he likewise took in, placing there a strong garrison. He marched from thence to another strong City called Durpe, and in five days forced the Town: five hundredth Polish Soldiers within the Town submitted unto him with tender of their service, whom he gently entreated, & entertained. They ever after serving him in all his wars very faithully. The Lieflanders themselves, noting the gentle behaviour of Duke Charles wished in their hearts all good success unto him, though they durst not show it outwardly, forfeare of their lords displeasure, who in his rule bore ever such a rough hand over them, that he seemed a Tyrant or an unjust Usurper, rather than an honourable governor, or a natural prince.  
Duke Fernesbeck having some intelligence of the sudden invasion of his country, raiseth with all the hast he could, all the powers he could make, being constituted by the King, General of his wars, and within a few days landed in Liefland, whereof Duke Charles having understanding, and fearing to be prevented, sent very secretly and speedily fifteen hundredth soldiers under the command of colonel Hill to surprise the city of Venden, but (I know not how) the plot being discovered, and Ambuscadoes laid in the way by Fernesbeck, they were suddenly charged, and being weary and faint through a long march, were soon overthrown, and slain, only the Colonel with seventeen of his fellowers, the poor remain of so many hundreds, making way with the sword, through the fury of the Enemy, did wounderously escape, bringing this sadnewes back to their Lord. The Duke, though it somewhat troubled him, yet showed no sign either of fear or sorrow, but heartened on his soldiers to the revenge of their fellows deaths. There was nothing that advantaged him more than his Celerity in all his attempts, for whensoever any advantage was proffered, he would never pretermit the least occasion. Duke Charles upon the news of this overthrow, understanding of new succours shortly to come out of Poland in the aid of Fernesbeck suddenly raiseth his (Army, his Enemies supposing that the late overthrow had much quailed his courage, and nothing less suspecting then what he intended) marcheth with all speed to the City of Venden, into which Duke Fernesbeck but two days before had made his triumphant entrance. The march was so speedily and secretly made, that they of the Town understood not of his remove from Durpe, till they saw him with his Army before the walls of Venden. Fernsbeck staying within the Town, every hour looking for his new supplies, when he saw himself (thus unlooked for) confronted by the Duke, and his Army, stood so amazed that a long time he was in doubt what it were best to do. At last made a show of resistance of the Enemy, and defence of the Town; till the approach of the night following, In which time he devised such a plot, that utterly lost his honour, and the Love of all his friends within his Dukedom. For in the beginning of the night having thoroughly instructed his Commanders, and followers, what he meant to do, No Townsman supposing what he purposed, made an absolute spoil of the Town, ransacking every man's house, and carrying away their plate, money and jewels, flies closely away and leaves the Town abandoned. Duke Charles had sudden intelligence hereof, and with all haste pursues him, and in the way he takes certain of Fernesbeckes Spials, whom having threatened, was by them conducted to the place where Duke Fernbecke that night encamped, and having given the charge to Colonel Hill, that was desirous to revenge himself of his late overthrow, suddenly set upon them being at rest, slew the most part of them, recovers the goods taken a little before so violently and dishonourably out of the City, Fernsbecke himself with a few of his followers hardly escaping.  
Duke Charles having thus recovered his late loss, returns with his Army to the City of Venden, where, with all acclamation of joy he was honourably entertained: Being thus seated in Venden, within two days after his abode in the Town he sendeth Eight hundredth men under the conduct of one Peerslompe, a gallant Swethish Captain, to surprise the Castle of Newhall bordering upon Russia, which was by him fortunately achieved, who returning to the Duke gave him presently the command of five thousand men, Colonel Hill being Steward of the field. The proiecte was to besiege Cokenhouse, being then and at this day the strongest Castle in christendom. The duke thought if he could gain this castle, he were then thoroughly possessed of all the dukedom, he himself purposed shortly after to second him. This gallant young gentleman with all speed, and with a full spirit marcheth to this honourable exploit, and encampeth his Army close to the walls of the Town, which being very strong, & faithful to their Lord, endured a long siege with great effusion of blood on both sides, but at the coming of the Duke, the Town was taken, and upon a breach in the entrance of the Town, this young captain was unfortunately (but honourably) slain with the shot of a Musket in his privities, sent from the castle: Duke Charles was very sorry for his death, making a vow that he would never raise his Army, till he had either forced the castle, or followed the fortune of this gallant captain. Three months the Duke lay before the castle with continual battery, and in the end takes it, and keeps it at this day. Upon the taking of the castle he was sufficiently revenged for the death of Peereslompe. Thus all the castles, holds, and fortresses, in Liefland, were in this Summer brought under the command of Duke Charles, only the castle of Ree, which was second to none but Cokenhouse, was yet left unassaulted. Duke Charles having thus in a manner the entire possession of Liefland, and being now wearied with this long toil, hearing no news of Duke Fernesbeckes return, in the latter end of the Summer, having ordered his affairs in that country returned to his duchess into Swethland, lying then in Stock holland, before his going he left the cities & castles in the dukedom, being thoroghly maned, under the government of his friends. The rest of his Army rested under the command of Colonel Hill, who having directions from the Duke at his departure, to attempt the taking of the Town of Ree, together with the castle, set forward with hope and courage, while the Duke was upon his journey into Swethland, and encamped before the Town of Ree, burned the suburbs, assaulted the Town, battered the walls, etc. But finding it stronger manned, then either it was supposed, or stood at that time with his power to force, returned according to his directions to the Duke.   

CHAP. IX. Duke Charles' winters in Swethland: takes order for the renewing of the war: The Summer following is fought withal in Liefland by Duke Fernsbeck, and discomfited: His strange escape, and recovery of Swethland.  
DUke Charles made his abode with his Duchess the Winter following in Swethland, having still privy intelligence from Poland of the King's plots, & proceedings. That Winter nothing was attempted, but in the prime of the Spring following Fernesbeck returned to Liefland with five thousand men. A greater power being appointed shortly to second him. Upon his landing he marched to the Town and Castle of Ree, where he reposed himself to understand what Duke Charles intended to do: Many blamed the Duke for that he let slip the taking in of the Castle, which if it had been, Fernsbeck had had no place to have retired to in all his kingdom. But it is an casier matter for a man to Censure then to act: words are soon spoken, so are not deeds performed, for Colonel Hill Attempted with the remainder of the army, to do what was possible to be done, but the winter being at hand, which in that coast is very extreme, his men wearied and weakened with a long summers toil, every man's natural desire in the Country to rest themselves in their stones, the winter season took away all possibility of winning the Castle Duke Charles understanding of his Enemy's arrival at Ree, let slip no time, but suddenly raised his powers to the number of fifteen thousand men, took shipping at Stockholland and landed with his whole Army safely within two days, within 15. miles of Ree. His purpose was to have suddenly beleaguered the Castle before the rest of his enemy's forces were Landed out of Poland, which he understood were ready to be shipped: and to that end (having refreshed his Army) he marched speedily and out of order, in the latter end of the day towards the Castle of Ree, supposing by the benefit of the night following, the better to have ensconced and fortified himself. But as no man, though never so circumspect, can warrant to himself the assurance or continuance of success, and especially in the actions of war, where fortune bears a sway so this noble Duke found the nature of her favours, which she had powered upon him, to be so unstable, that in a Minute she snatched from him, what a long time before she had prodigally bestowed. For Fernsbeck having intelligence of the Duke's landing, suddenly issued out of the Castle with three thousand of his followers, and having a place of great advantage about three miles from the Castle, the way that Duke Charles must of necessity pass, took the benefit of the place and the night, lying there in Ambush for the Duke's coming, and giving directions not to stir till the vanguard of the Duke's Army had passed them, and then suddenly to charge the battle, and the Rearward to give the Alarm to the Castle, At which time a Polish Captain with three thousand Poles was appointed to charge the vanguard of the Dukes: which on all sides was accordingly accomplished. The Duke being in the Battle, finding himself so suddenly and dangerously environed, gave (according to the Time) the best directions, resist he must of necessity, Retire he could not▪ wherefore riding cheerfully up & down his Army, gave encouragement to his Soldiers, making still the danger less than it was, But Fernesbeck stirred up with a desire of revenge, and recovery of his dukedom, and having advantage of the place, so violently assailed, that at the first Charge he made a great breach into the body of the Duke's battle, she like was performed at the instant upon the rearward by one Stockland, a gallant young Polish Captain.  
Thus all parts of the Army being assaulted, that before was weary, weak, and faint, through a long March, they were suddenly put into such a fear, as begat much amazement in them, so as men desperate of all hope to resist, they flung away their weapoas and fled, hoping to save themselves that way, wherein was least hope of safeguard. The Duke did what lay in his power to stay his flying Soldiers. But in this perplexed face of flight, where nothing but the Characters of fear and despair could be seen, no words could suffice, nor any commander's tongue be regarded, but in this confused manner they ran upon their deaths, whilst the enemy stood ready to receive them. And in this horror of blood and massacre, the Duke's horse was slain under him, he himself hurt, and perceiving no hope either by fight or flight, he fell down (as dead) among the dead Carcases, retaining a hope that way happily to save himself. Of fifteen thousand men, fourtéen thousand and odd were put to the sword, the rest fled to their ships. Every man supposing the Duke to be slain. The sad news of this fatal overthrow and of the Duke's supposed death, was soon brought into Swethland, which upon the hearing thereof, showed such a general face of sorrow, as if the whole land had put on one entire mourning garment, to attend his sad and untimely funerals They now saw their Prince suddenly snatched from them in the spring time of their hopes, & in the prime of all his glory, they found themselves naked, and open to the Polish Tyranny. They feared their Religion and government would now be forced and adulterated by the tyrannous command, and superstitious customs of Poland, wherewithal they knew their King was wholly corrupted. No heart so Noble, no head so circumspect, no hand so victorious, to order the state, manage the affairs, and fight the battles of their Country, Now he was dead all hope was buried, and all their happiness, and freedom should be laid in the grave with him, and last but not lest of their sorrow, they wanted his body to give it honourable funeral.  
But as this false news made them true mourners, so this passion of sorrow for his supposed death, was afterward turned into the contrary passion of joy, for the Duke's strange and unknown delivery: to whom we will now return, having left him before among the dead carcases of his Soldiers. There was a young Gentleman of Swethland, attendant to the Duke (whose name I could not learn) that saw the Duke when he fell, thinking him with the rest to have been slain, and desirous to do the last service to his Prince, kept close (having a place fit for his purpose) hoping to recover the body of the Duke, and finding in the dark of the night, a certain Gentleman of Poland, newly slain, shifteth armour and apparel with him, and having the Polish tongue, undertook as one of Fernsbecks' soldiers to rifle the dead bodies, and having found the place where the Duke lay, all imbrued with the blood of his Soldiers, and coming near to raise the body, the Duke began to strive: The Gentleman amazed, asked in fair terms if he were alive: to whom the Duke replied, Art thou my friend? the Gentleman told him his name and purpose, and sith he was alive, he should horse himself upon the Gentleman's horse, and fly unto his ships, using the benefit of the night for his escape, while he himself would make what shift he could to follow after. The Duke being thus raised from this grave of blood worse than Golgotha, embracced him, thanked him, and spoke these words, God prosper thee, whom if it please, that thou shalt live to out live the fortunes of this night, there was never man so dear, as thou shalt be to thy Lord: whereupon the Duke mounted, and with all speed hasted to his ships, where the joy of his coming was so much the greater, by how much the fear before of his death was the stronger.  
The Gentleman whom he left behind, being unluckily discovered, was unfortunately slain, which though the last, was not the least honour he achieved, to die in the safeguard of his Prince. The Duke stayed long for his return, but at length suspecting that which had happened, hoist sail and safely arrived in Swethland. It is a world to hear the concourse of people that from all parts came to see him: Upon the news of his landing, they strewed flowers in the way, as thinking the Earth unworthy to bear him: they showed all signs and tokens of joy, as now holding themselves free from those fears, which the report of his death had before possessed them with. Now as men newly revived, they began to entertain new hopes, and to flatter themselves with a perpetual stability of their estates: The Sun, which they supposed had made an eternal Set from their Horizon, did now shine again in the midst of their Hemisphere, and this glad day, after their sad night, they made a general vow sor ever to consecrate. Thus as in a triumphant manner the Duke held on his course, to Stockeholland, where the triumphs for his delivery he found doubled, with the Duchess his wife, his kindred and his nearest friends, that in joy of his return feasted many days together.  
Duke Fernsbecke proud of the late victory, let slip no time▪ but having the seconds of his power, safely landed out of Poland, recovered many of his towns and Castles which he before had lost, and which he holdeth at this day: Duk▪ Charles did little that Summer, but that he sent certain forces to strengthen those principal towns and 〈◊〉 in Liefland, which he yet holdeth. And in this Summer, not from any ambitions desire of his own, but the policy of the time, in the state of the Kingdom, so requi●●●●, at the special instigation of his friends, for the coun●●●●s good, but principally upon respect of the church's peace, 〈◊〉 took upon him the Crown and Sceptre of Swethland, in the year of our Lord God, 1604. which he doth still nobly and peaceably govern, as the state of the Time doth suffer. The wars being for the most part transferred into the Dukedom of Leifland. And thus as I 〈◊〉 informed, standeth the condition of the affairs of that kingdom at this time.   
FINIS