A SHORT RELATION, OF THE LIFE, VIRTVES, and miracles, of S. ELIZABETH CALLED THE PEACEMAKER. QVEEN OF PORTUGAL. Of the third Rule of S. FRANCIS. Canonised by Pope VRBAN the VIII. the 25. of May. Anno 1625.  
Translated out of Dutch; by Sister Catharine Francis, Abbess of the English Monastery of S. FRANCIS third Rule in Bruxelles.  
AT BRUXELLES, By John Pepermans, at the sign of the golden Bible, 1628.   


●●●●●BETHA PORTUGALLIAE REGINA 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 S. Francisci Vixit annis LXV. Obijt ano 1336. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ●…lp: et Excud: Stᵒ Van▪ Schore    

TO THE REVEREND, RELIGIOUS, AND DEVOUT servant of jesus Christ. SISTER CATHARINE FRANCIS, Abbess of the English Monastery of S. Francis third Rule. in Bruxelles. Everlasting health.  
REVEREND MOTHER. Having seen in English the little book of the life of S. ELISABETH Queen of Portugal: which F. Paludan. abbridged, and gave out to all the people in Spanish, French, and Dutch, in the solemnity made at the publishing of her Canonisation, in Bruxelles: I knew it to be your Reverences hand wrighting, and being farther certified that it was your own labour, and that you had yourself translated it out of the dutch. Esteeming it so much the more, I conferred it with the original; and finding it in all things to agree, and to be à mirror, not only for Religious, but also for Princes, I had scruple to hide what was so behooveful for the common good; therefore witnessing here the truth of the translation, I demanded of our superior his approbation that it might be printed, which had, I dedicate your work to your own self, willing you to go forward in so good exercise, for nothing moveth more to perfection then the examples of those saints that were in all respects of the same profession that ourselves are: nor contrariwise can any thing more hinder it, then to be bound to one profession, and in affection to follow another. Verily, to your serious looking into their lives (next unto your daily, and nightly exercise of choir and meditation) I must attribute that principal spirit of government, to which in short time you have attained by the assistance of him who needeth no long times in teaching, Almighty God, who ever bless your endeavours, and bring us all to see his face, in heaven. Pray for your poor Chaplain.  
BR. FRANCIS BEL.   

THE AUTHOR, TO THE READER.  
TVrning over diverse Authors, and with attention reading their histories, the better to inform myself of the parentage, affinity, and life of our holy Queen Elizabetb: I have found that her Origen is the illustrious house of Arragon, and her alliance by marriage, with the kingly house of Portugal, which houses I have noted to have been very fruitful of holy persons: And not only in these two but also in many others, as France, Castille, Bohemia, Hungary, Poland, and Brabant I have observed the like blessings and favours. Amongst which kingdoms and Princedoms, the mutual marriages and alliances from all antiquity, by course even till this time have caused an affinity worthy the consideration: In so much that the Princes and Potentates living this day, if they be come of these families, have either their origen from the number of these Saints or else are allied and of kindred to them reigning now in glory with Christ our saviour.  
Chiefly it is to be noted how this holy Saint Elisabeth Queen of Portugal is Parent to the Emperor Ferdinand, the 2. and the Catholic King of Spain Philip Dominicus victor, by right line in the tenth degree. To the Infanta Isabel Clara Eugenia, governess of the low countries and Burgundy, in the 9 degree. To the Duke of Bavaria and the Duke of Nuburg, in the 11. degree.  
The most Christian King of France, that now liveth, is to her and S. Lewes, his predecessor in the kingdom of France (who was also of the third Order of our Seraphical father S. Francis) and to her Sister S. Elisabeth who was à Nun of S. Clares Order; in the eleventh degree: he is also cozen to S. Lewes' Bishop of Tolosa, who was à Freer of S. Francis Order: and also to B. joanna Queen of France, Foundress of our B. Lady's order, called the Anuntiates.  
The King of Poland that reigneth at this day, hath in his Parentage S. Hedwigis, and her daughter. S. Gertrude; and B. Aleyda Princess of Poland, and B. Salomea Queen of Halicia, Moreover, he hath S. Casimirus, his uncle, Brother to his grandfather.  
The Lantsgrave of Hessen descendeth from S. Elisabeth Queen of Hungary and Bohemia (she was of the third order of S. Francis) he is in the 10. degree from her.  
The kingdoms of Hungary and Bohemia have honoured their kings and Princes with parentage of Saints and Beatified, Saint Elisabeth before mentioned, and S. Margarite (of the order of S. Dominick) Cunegunda and jolenta of the order of S. Clare: all daughters of Andrew the 3. and Bela the 4. Kings of Hungary: B. Agnes of the order of S. Clare daughter to Primislaus king of Bohemia: S. Albertus' Cardinal and Martyr Bishop of Leedes (whose relics lie in Bruxelles in the church of the Discalced Carmelites, translated thither from Rheims by the Archduke of happy memory Albertus the Just, and Isabel Clara Eugenia his beloved wife the year 1612.) who was sonn, brother, and uncle to the Dukes of Brabant.  
But here I desire you to mark, how the kingdom of Portugal, goeth beyond the others; for setting aside the holy Elisabeth (whose life shall here briefly be set down) ye shall find, coming out of this kingdom, the first king Alphonsus; the 3. daughters of his son Sancius; Theresa Queen of Leon; Mafalda Queen of Castille, after religious of S. Bernard's order: and Sancia of the same order: The Prince Ferdinand son to king John the first, and the Infanta joan daughter to king Alphonsus the fifth, all eminent for holiness of life and miracles: where, in many thousand families again you shall not find one.  
All these Saints, to the number of 24. have sprung out of these ten Catholic families within the space of about 400. years. And had we looked further back to their first beginning or their conversion to the Christian faith, every family would have yielded more: for in Hungary we should yet have found S. Stephan, and Emeric kings, and Ladislaus Prince of that Kingdom. In Bohemia, S. Wenceslaus Martyr. In Austria, S. Leopoldus. In Brabant, SS. Pipin, Arnulphus, Emebert, Begga, Gertrude, Gudula, Pharaildis, Reynaldis, Waltrudis, Aldegund, etc. and so in the rest.  
And to return again to S. Elisabeth Queen of Portugal, Note, that of her are come, 7. Emperors, consequently one after another: six Empresses: 36. King's: and 43. Queens.  
All which together is to be seen as clear as the sun; in à table which I have set forth; to the honour of the same Saint: and withal, that the devout reader may see therein how men in this world (if they will cooperate with Gods preventing grace) notwithstanding majesty, greatness, might, honour, and kingdom, may attain to great holiness: And that also beholding and considering so many Saints, the Christian Princes that glory to be of their race may be thereby spurred and pricked on to virtue, and follow their holiness▪ and choose them for Patroness, Advocates, and guides, in the unknown way, of this life, and after in the just judgement of the upright judge.  
Those that have the card which I set out, must note, first that it was not possible to give all the Queen's place therein, or to set down their names, because the piece is little, and also because many of them were married to kings, whom it was no need to bring in: and those that are set down are without crowns, excepting the Saints, and those that were heirs to kingdoms or princedoms, who by their marriages transferred them to other families.  
Secondly, here in is clearly to be seen, the right and lawful succession of the kingdoms of Hungary, and Bohemia, and all the Provinces, and Dominions of the house of Austria unto the person of Ferdinando Emperor of the Romans. Also the inheritance and succession not only of all the kingdoms of Spain but also of Sicily, and Naples, of the Dukedom of Burgundy, Brabant, and the rest of the Dominions of the low countries, lawfully to pertain and fall upon the person of the Catholic king Philip the 4. Dominic Victor, and that not by force of arms, much less by prudence and humane industry: but only by the disposition and providence of God: who (Eccl. cap. 10.) translateth kingdoms from nation to nation. Whence may be seen the idleness, and vanity or manifest impiety of such as prefer the inventions of their own brains, or, to speak more properly, certain laws of state, before the providence and care-that God hath of the government of Empires and Dominions: and for their better safeguard and security, set faith and conscience à side, offend God and his holy church.  
Thirdly, all Potentates shall here note, that the strongest castle, the chiefest fortification and defence of their estates is, sincere faith, and Religion not affected: for although the riches and regions be moved together, although the earth be in uproar, and hell come in for à part: nothing of all this can shake the Monarch that feareth God, and loveth his church, and doth not communicate nor participate with the adversaries there of, and is zealous of sincere and perfect justice.  
Fourthly that no man may have any thing to say, if it seem to him that I have done more than the decrees of the church do permit, touching the description of the 24. Saints. Because they be not all in the Catalogue of the Canonised by order of the Roman church, although the greatest part of them be so: yet the others shined and do as yet shine with many miracles in their several places and provinces▪ Where they are holden, esteemed and reverenced, for Saints; and of some of them the Martyrologes of their orders do make mention, so that no doubt being made of their sanctity it remaineth that we endeavour to follow them. There is in the table à distinction, for the Saints Canonised, or Beatified, are in oval circles with beams of glory about their heads, the other in round circles without beams. And because the beatification of B. joan Queen of France, is laboured for at Rome, and the decree from day to day expected, she is set in an oval circle.  
For the rest, what thing so ever can be desired more in the description of the card: the marks and distinctions therein set down, and chiefly the branches of it do show it clearly. Let, this suffice, gentle Reader, for thy direction; enjoy my little labour, and take it thanckfully▪  
F. F. P.   

COncordat cum originali Teutonico Ita testor 5. Octobris 1628.  
Fr. Franciscus Bel.   

Imprimatur,  
Fr. Franciscus à sancta Clara, Lector Theologiae: Collegij S. Bonaventurae Duaci, Guardianus, & R. P. Ministri Provinciae Angliae, Cis mare vices gerens.   

A SHORT DECLARATION OF THE LIFE, VIRTVES, AND MIRACLES OF S. ELIZABETH, CALLED THE PEACEMAKER: QVEEN OF PORTUGAL.  

Of her parents and bringing up.  
THE FIRST CHAPTER.  
THIS B. saint Elizabeth was daughter to Peter king of Arragon, her mother was named Constantia, daughter of Manfredus, King of Cecilie and Cousin to the Emperor. Frederick, the second: She was borne in the year of our Lord 1272. In the reign of her grandfather james (of whose merits and good works it is found written that he builded and endowed, to the honour of the glorious mother of god, 2000) churches when this happy child was Christened, they named her Elizabeth in memory of that other S. Elizabeth, daughter to Andrew king of Hungary, who died before, in great holiness of life. and was numbered amongst the Saints by Gregory the 9 whose sister Called Violence, was wife to the forenamed james: and grandmother to this holy Saint. her birth did so much rejoice her grandfather, that he presently made peace with his son, her father; with whom he had been long at variance; but now at this joyful time of her nativity he concluded peace, between them, and took this welcome safety, his grandchild home to his palace, and brought her up with great care. instructing her in all virtues. when she was 6. years old her grandfather died, and she was brought home to her father's house, where in her tender years she gave great testimony of her future virtues; by her gravity and devotion which was of great edification, for she kept the same manner of Rule in all her actions. and especially in her prayers and devotions which she had learned of her grandfather, and when she was Come to the age of 8. years she daily read the 7. hours of the divine office: with great devotion and diligence, she was loving and charitable to the poor, giving according to her age all that she could procure, at which her father did very much admire ascribing all the good success of his affairs to his daughter's merits for which he gave daily thanks unto almighty God.   

Of the marriage of B. Saint Elizabeth.  
THE II. CHAPTER.  
THe fame of this holy Saint, and her natural endowments wherewith she was adorned was spread through the whole world so that she was desired in marriage by many Princes, to wit, the Prince, of Naples, and the Prince of Britain who sent their Embassadores, to the king of Arragon her father to desire this royal daughter in marriage, but this was unwelcome news, vn to him who grieved to think that he should part with his beloved daughter, and much more grievous was it to the holy Elizabeth, that sought after the heavenly Bridegroom not desiring any earthly Prince. About this time died Alphonsus, the 3. king of Portugal, and after him reigned in his kingdom his son Dionysius, who being now settled in his kingdom did Choose out 3. of the greatest Peers, of his Royalme, whom he sent in Embassage to the king of Arragon, to desire this his daughter in marriage: the king at that time kept his Court at Barcinona where the aforesaid Embassadores arrived, their names wear the Lord john Velho, Lord john Martinium, and the Lord Vasco Perez, who presenting their Embassage to the king; he deliberating with himself on which of these 3. Princes, he should bestow his daughter, so dear and delightful unto him, in regard of her virtuous disposition, at the last he made choice of the king of Portugal, rather than either of the other two Princes, in regard they were not as yet established in their kingdoms as the king Dionysius was. Besides, this king was not so near in blood unto the lady Elizabeth as the other two Princes were, all which were Motives that made the king her father willing to bestow her upon the aforesaid king Dionysius; and so soon as consent was given thereunto; the Lord Velho as chief▪ of these Embassadores▪ took this holy Elizabeth to wife, in the name of his king, who understanding thereof did much rejoice with all his subjects, exceedingly congratulating this hopeful marriage, and with great desire expected her Coming: esteeming her as given them from heaven, when she was to depart from her father's palace, towards her husband's court: the king her father with great attendance▪ accompanied her to the borders of Castille: where she was honourably received by Aminitius Sancius who at that time being hindered with wars. Gave her to the protection, of his brother james: and the best of the nobility of Castille. At Brigante upon the Borders of Portugal Alphonsus brother to the aforesaid king Dionysius, awaited her, and brought with him many Bishops and nobles of the land, honourably conducting her Royal parson to Trancosie, where the king did attend the Coming of his bride, and the marriage was solemnised with unspeakable joy of all. In the year of our lord 1282. the king gave her for welcome (after the custom of Portugal) great special rents out of certain cities; and also courtiers and attendants, as beseemed her.   

Of her holy life in her marriage state.  
THE III. CHAPTER.  
THis new state of life: and great honour did not any ways diminish her accustomed devotions: for although this holy Queen were but 12. years of age: yet did she measure and dispose of all her affairs in due time and known how to direct and turn all her actions to the honour of God; as her mirth into modesty: her joy into tears: her jewels and costly apparel, to sharp discipline and chastising her body. She was much given to the service of God in holy contemplation; yet did she never neglect her service and due respects unto the king her husband: she kept a just account how she spent the day: rising early in the morning to read her Matines and Prime: and so soon as the Priests and musicians were ready to perform the divine service: she went with speed to the Chapel where she heard mass very devoutly upon her knees: and after mass having reverently kissed the Priest's hand she made her offering according to the solemnity of the day: that she might not appear with empty hands before almighty God, this being done she read the rest of her hours: and this was her accustomed manner. all the time of her life: and for the last she read the office of Our B. Lady. and the office of the dead: in the after noon she went à gain to the Chapel to hear the Vesperas, and to perform the rest of her office: after which she gave herself to holy contemplation wherein she shed à boundance of tears that proceeded from the tenderness of her hart she also used to read devout books which incite to virtue: and after this she exercised herself in skilful needle work; Chiefly to shun idleness and to give others good example, she made with her own hands all things that were necessary for the church, she went often to confession and received the most holy Sacrament, of the Altar with great devotion.   

Of her great abstinence, and how her fasting was confirmed with à miracle.  
THE IV. CHAPTER.  
THis holy Queen was not only à lover of praire but also of great abstinence, accustoming herself to à very spare diett: that her soul might be the more pleasing unto God: and besides the fasting days appointed by the holy church, she kept 3. in à week and she likewise fasted the aduent of our lord: and from the Eve of S. john Baptist until the day of our B. ladies assumption, and some times she fasted the lent of S. Michael when these fasts seemed easy to her, than did she fast the. Freedayes and saturdays, with the Eues of our lady and all the Apostles, with bread and water: and she would have proceeded further in fasting but that the king her husband over ruled her. This wise and virtuous Queen knew well that costly meals great banquets, and fine apparel was often times the nurse of many sins: and it pleased God to show by à miracle how pleasing the sobriety and abstinence of this his hand maid was unto him; for being sick at Alanquerti, she was appointed by the Doctor to drink wyne for the recovery of her strength, but she for the love of abstinence did refuse to drink it, verily believing it was not good for her health. For not she alone: but all the kings and Queens of Portugal were no drinkers of wyne: so that it pleased almighty God wonderfully to look upon her, for as her weighting woman brought her twice à Cup of Could water to drink it was both times miraculously turned in to good wyne.   

Of her mildness to the poor, likewise confirmed with à miracle.  
THE V. CHAPTER.  
THis holy Queen was all ways found mild and very charitable towards the poor being ever willing and ready to help and comfort them in all that possibly she might, so that her liberality seemed to go above her Estate, she never let any depart from her uncomforted although there came many unto her, not so much driven by corporal necessity as to receive of her some consolation and ease of their griefs by her pious counsel, and virtuous example. She had great compassion upon all strangers: and outlandish pilgrims tenderly receiving and charitably relieving them according to their necessity with money, clothes, and lodging. She gave to all Cloisters as well of men as of women, to the uttermost of her power. She did much commiserate the disstressed estate of poor gentlemen which through any misfortune were fallen to decay: and she sought out means, to help them. Likewise this pious Queen did understand that within her Royalme were very many women of good account which suffered great misery for want of maintenance. and thereby were in danger to fall in to sin a but she employed her most trust● servants to relieve theyre necessity and by her means preferred many in marriage: and although her piety were always plentifully manifested to the needy, yet upon fasting days: and in the holy week she exercised most charity: and aparelling herself in very poor clothes she was present at all the ceremonies of the holy Catholic church. Upon good frjday she washed the feet of 13. poor men and having done she humbly kissed their feet and gave them new clothes. the like she did on holy thursday to 13. poor women. It chanched that one of these poor women had à very soar foot which was grievously eaten with à cancre: and being loath the princess should perceive it she drew it back, and gave her other foot to wash, but the holy Queen took the soar foot into her hand and washed it very▪ tenderly and although it had so strong à savour that it could hardly be endured yet did she humbly kiss it, whereupon the said sore was immediately healed miraculously. The like pious work she did upon à good friday at Scalabi, when all the people were gone but only one poor man who stayed in the court to seek some remedy of à foare disease with which he was afflicted, the porter seeing him was very angry and in à great fury required of him how he came to be infected with such à grievous disease, and why he did not go away with the other people and taking à staff in his hand did beat this poor man and wound him very grievously. this wicked deed was made known unto the holy Queen, who did grieve very much at that her servant had done, and caused the poor man to be brought unto her and comforted him in all that she could, binding up his wounds with her own hands and gave order to her servants that theyshould have care of him: but it pleased God that the next day, he was cured, and came to the holy Queen to give her thanks for his health. she continued her accustomed charity and liberality to the poor which was shown to be most pleasing to the divine bounty by this which followeth. It chanced on à time as she carried in her lap à great sum of money to give to the poor, she met with the king her husband who said unto her, what is that my beloved that you carry there? she answered they be roses: and opening her lap the money was miraculously turned in to fair roses which did yield forth à very fragrant smell: although it were then the time of winter; and hereof it cometh that this holy Elizabeth, is always painted holding roses in her lap: she was ever very hard and sparing to herself but to the poor most mild and liberal.   

Of à certain peace which she made.  
THE VI CHAPTER.  
WIth great right is this holy Queen styled Pacifica, which is as much to say as Peacemaker for she seemeth to have been borne for that end, to make peace. There was à very dangerous accident happened between the king her husband and his brother Alphonsus about certain rents and revenues, which were in question between them: and the matter was grown unto that pass that it seemed impossible, to be ended without the shedding of much blood: but this virtuous Queen made peace between them with her own loss: presenting to them as à gift to make the peace à town Called Cintram, and other towns of Portugal, with all her richest revenues. She known the office of à Queen was to appease the angry mind of the king and make peace between him and his subjects; also to admonish those in office to discover the deceits of the enemies in the court: She counselled the king to be always liberal to those that deserved well: and not to give ear to those that backbite and detract others: and when she known of any that were at debate than did she labour all that she might to pacify them, making conditions that they might not go to law and if the parties were poor that sustained the injury she gave them of her own goods because the peace should not be broken: yet without detriment to justice if there were any thing that deserved punishment. This holy Queen likewise made peace between the king of Arragon her brother, and her daughter's husband Ferdinandus king of Castille: which although many Priests, and Bishops had undertaken and could not bring to pass, yet she by her endeavours brought it to so good an end that they both did choose the king her husband to decide the matter: and at an other time this pious Queen made peace between her sonn in law Ferdinandus king of Castille, and her husband the king, that were both up in arms and ready to give battle; and when the Prince Alphonsus had rebelled 2. or 3. times, and had taken in, one of his cities she so over came him with fair words and just reasons that she brought him home again to the service of his father: and thereby quieted the Civil wars in Portugal.   

Of her patience in tribulation.  
THE VII. CHAPTER.  
ALthough this holy Queen had always her desires and endeavours exercised in the making of peace: and seeking to conserve it, yet could she not herself be exempted from envious tongues: for, there were some that sought to raise à great slander of her and to set debate between her and the king her husband, persuading him that the Queen did give intelligence to her son Alphonsus of all his father's decrees, and that was the reason that the king's Army had always such ill success, and so often overthrow and his son Alphonso the victory. The king being thus incensed à 'gainst his virtuous and most innocent queen: became so enraged with her that he deprived her of all her rents and revenues, and in banishment sent her to Alanquer giving her that place for her prison: and this caused great grief to all the Royalme but especially to the governors of her Castles, who all promised to defend her innocence and right her wrongs with their swords: but she refused all human help and putting her trust only in God, gave herself wholly to her devotions spending the days and nights in holy prayer chastising her body with very sore penance: all the week long eating or drinking nothing but dry bread and could water; and when the king her husband understood of her great austerity, and virtuous manner of living he was moved to pity: and it pleased Almighty God to open his eyes so that believing her innocence he caused her to be brought home again according to her Princely estate, and after ward she was held in greater estimation.   

Of her love and loyalty to the king her husband.  
THE VIII. CHAPTER.  
THe wisdom and constancy of this holy Queen hath shined in all the course of her life, but especially it was made manifest by the great patience wherewith she did bear the disloyal and disordered life of her husband, and his love to other women, by whom he had children: forgetting his plyted faith unto his virtuous Queen, and loving wife, who grieved very much for two causes, the one, that Almighty God was so much offended, and the other, that the subjects through the king's evil example might be incited to follow his lewd life. The children which he had by other women she did not hate like à step mother, but brought them up with tender care, and motherly love, instructing them in all virtue as if they had been her own, at which the king did very much wonder, and thereby was moved to amend his life and not any more to wrong his marriage estate, yet there were still malicious minds which sought to avert his love from this his virtuous Queen: by raising à new slander against her innocence, it was in this manner. There was à young courtier, that bare great hatred unto another courtier of good and orderly life, and one whom this virtuous Queen did much employ to carry alms to poor folks, and such like service, it came to pass that the envious young man taking in à wrong sense the charitable endeavours of this pious Queen, did accuse her to be disloyal to the king her husband with this young man: the king being thus incensed sought by all means to put the young man to death: and there upon commanded secretly the men that kept his lime kelles, to take the first man he should send to them, and bind him and cast him in to the burning furnace. So the king sent the innocent young man to be burnt, who went, not mistrusting any such matter, and as he was going on the way he heard the bell ring to the elevation of the B. Sacrament in the mass: and according to the custom went in to the church to pray, as he had been warned by his father to do at such times, and being there were more masses to be said, he stayed still to keep his devotion. The king desirous to hear of his death, sent the false accuser to the men of the lime ●elle, to know if they had performed his command; they taking him for the man they should destroy, answered that they had not yet, but now they would, and so they took him presently and cast him headlong into the burning furnace. when the news was brought to the king by the first messenger, he stood amazed at this wonderful and righteous work of God seeing evil counsel always to fall heaviest upon the counsellor, and that the innocent Queen was thus preserved from the slander.   

Of her children.  
THE IX. CHAPTER.  
IT pleased God that her first child was à daughter, whom she named Constantia, after her grandmother, this daughter was after ward married to Ferdinandus the 3. of that name, king of Castille, with great joy, but it was soon turned into sorrow by the news of her sudden and unexpected death: for as this Queen Elizabeth with the king her husband went from Scalabi to Arambuiam, there came an hermit in great sorrow, and desired to speak with the Queen: she gave him audience, who said unto her. I shall declare unto your highness most sad and heavy news; your daughter is suddenly departed this life, and her sorrowful soul hath appeared openly to me in my chapel and prayed me to give you to understand that she is in purgatory, and she desired the holy sacrifice of the mass might be offered a whole year for her release. The pious mother fulfilled the desire of her daughter: and the year being accomplished her daughter appeared to her in Conymbria in her sleep, clothed in white, and seeming to be full of joy, called her mother by her name saying, mother Elizabeth almighty God will reward you in heaven, whither now I go released from all pain. Heerupon the Queen waked and smiling with joy went presently to the pastor and understood by him that her daughter's apparition was upon the masses concluding: at which she was much comforted. The 17. year of her age she bore her daughter Constantia and the 20. year of her age she bore her son Alphonsus, at Conimbria, and he reigned after the death of his father.   

Of her pious works showed in the building of many holy places.  
THE X. CHAPTER.  
THis holy Queen was very mild, and benign to all sorts of people, but especially she had regard unto the common good and public profit, for when she understood of any decayed churches or hospitals she presently took order to have them repaired at her own cost and charges. Her piety in this kind was so great, that à Gentilwoman dwelling at Almosterium not far from Scalabi began to build à cloister for Nuns of S. Bernard's order: and being prevented by death could not make an end of it, but left her begun work to this holy Elizabeth, who did most willingly undertake to finish it, to perform the last will and testament of the decessed. having finished this good work she left it richly provided of rents, leaving the name and honour thereof unto her who did first begin the work. The like to, this she did also at Scalabi, for the Bishop of that city began an alms house for found-linges but being prevented by death, could not finish it, and in his last will he commended his work to the holy Queen Elizabeth, much desiring that she would not by any means leave it undone: the Queen did not only accomplish his desire in this, but also made the work much greater and augmented the rents, and gave good order for the government of the house, herself did give the children to eat, out of motherly love, and when they were grown big she put them to learn such trades as they were found capable of. This holy Queen's virtue was seen in the willingness wherewith she undertook to finish works begun by others, wherein she knew there was more labour and charges for her then any applause of the world: for she sought nothing but the honour of God in all her actions, and the salvation of souls, and commun wealths good. There was à Cloister of S. Clares order in Conimbria very little both church and house, in regard it was begun by à Gentilwoman that could not finish it for want of means: and this holy Elizabeth bought houses and ground joining to the Cloister, to enlarge it. she made an hospital by her palace: wherein she maintained 15. poor men, and as many poor women, she builded also à house in the City of Novarium for women that having prostituted their honesty, were converted from their lewd life to good.   

Of the death and burial of her husband and how she lived after his death.  
THE XI. CHAPTER.  
THe love and loyalty this holy Queen bore to her husband was most especially manifested in his sickness, in and after his death, for first she offered many prayers and good works for his conversion, humbly imploring the divine mercy for him, and seeking by all means to purge his soul from sin, that he might without spot depart this life: for that effect she gave very much alms, with desire that his life might be prolonged if it were the divine will. But it pleased God so to dispose that the king, her husband died at that time: and although she were left in great sorrow yet she made not much show exteriorly, but laid away her Costly apparel and in the midst of her grief thought more upon her soul's health then any speeches of men: and in this pious consideration she took the habit of the poor Clares: and cutting of her hair and girding herself with à cord, attired in this holy habit, in humble manner she appeared before the peers and nobles of the land, who stood all round about the corpse, and she said unto them with à sad and sorrowful voice, think my good lords, that the Queen is also dead with the king: and let it be your care to bury him with kingly arms as becometh à king: but for myself j have no need of any Courtly attendance, as ladies of honour, or any other servants: neither let this attire you see me wear seem strange unto you, for this shall be the last act of mourning, this habit shall bring unto my memory the death of my decessed husband: my head shorn and covered with this holy veil shall witness the fidelity of Elizabeth: this unwonted spectacle shall incite all to lament; and having ended this speech which caused much grieff to all that were present she spoke many comfortable words to the nobility, giving such wise and prudent reasons for what she did, that they remained both satisfied and edified. This holy Queen was present to see her husband's funeral solemnised with great honour, and her son Alphonsus, with many Prelates and Princes followed the corpse loaden with sorrow: after them followed the holy Elizabeth to the wonder of all beholders: in this sort they went till they came to à Cloister of Nuns of S. Bernard's order: which the king before had builded not far from the City, there he had desired to be buried, and according to his desire it was done. The funeral being ended, and all returned home, the Queen stayed by the tomb, not so much to bewail her widowhood, as to help the soul of her husband with prayers and good works, for there was no naked, or needy poor, but she clothed and relieved: the masses she caused to be said for him were innumerable▪ these things done, she went to Conimbria, because she would not give her Nobles too much sorrow by parting from them quite. She had à private way from her palace to the Cloister of the poor Clares, with whom she conversed much, but so as not to bind herself to them: yet she went to the choir with the religious to perform the divine office, and did exercise herself in all humble works with them according as time gave her leave. She visited other Cloisters, churches, and holy places, not only those that were near hand, but also such as were fart off, giving her offering with her own hand: and that she might the better attend to the help and relief of poor people, she was counselled to take upon her the third Rule of S. Francis which she did, and kept it always after, to the end of her life.   

How S. Elisabeth went to Galicia to visit S. james in Compostella and of the offering she made.  
THE XII. CHAPTER.  
NOt fully à year after the death of the king her husband, this holy Queen took her way towards Compostella, with all her court, to visit the body of the holy Apostell S. james, but none knew whither she intended to go till she had travailed some day's journey, and passed the rivers of Dure and Minie, than they all imagined by her devout and holy manner of life whither she went. When they came near to the City, so that they could see the tops of the steeples, the Queen alighted and went thither on foott, to the wonder of all her followers. It is not possible to declare with what great devotion and reverence she honoured the body of the Apostel, and stayed there until the day of his feast, attending with more than ordinary devotion at the solemnity thereof till all was finished: she likewise gave to understand with what affection she ware her costly attire whilst her husband lived: for at that time she bestowed all her best apparel embroidered with precious stones upon that holy place: she gave also her Royal Crown: with her gold and silver plate to adorn the temple. She gave moreover à fair mule, with à gold bridle, with the arms of Portugal, and Arragon: and à great sum of money, with other costly gifts, which she bestowed on that place, in honour of the glorious Apostle S. james: where they are seen to the great admiration of all people who never beheld such riches. Having finished her devotion the Archbishop gave her à mantel and à staff that she might be like to other Pilgrims.   

How she builded the Cloister of S. Clare, after her return to the Kingdom.  
THE XIII. CHAPTER.  
Being now returned home, she kept the solemnity of the year day, of her deceased husband, at Odiville with Alponsus her Son, and many Bishops and great nobles, which solemnity being finished, she returned to Conimbria, to finish à Cloister of S. Clare which she had begun, where-unto she gave her gold chains and other rich attire. she caused to be sent for, all such tradesmen as make things necessary for the service of the church, as chalices, crosses, tabernacles, candlesticks, lamps and all other manner of church stuff what soever, used in the service of God: one part she gave to the Cloister, an other part to other churches in Portugal. Some rich and costly gifts and jewels she gave unto her married daughter, some to her cousin, some also unto Queen Mary of Castille, and some to Leonora Queen of Arragon and other Princesses who were near unto her in blood, from thence forth to live in simplicity and poverty with great strictness, to finish the rest of her life. This holy Princess with great care and diligence finished the Cloister of S. Clare with the church, before mentioned (for to that end she came to Conimbria) and made for herself à house adjoining to the Cloister, that from thence she might come to the sisters, to forward the workmen, she likewise increased the rents of the same Cloister, and the number of sisters. In building she had great under-standing. In the church of the aforesaid Cloister she caused to be made for her à tomb wherein at her death she intended to be buried. In the building of the tomb there being à great stone which the worck men could not remove out of the place, the holy Queen laying her hand upon the stone it was very easily after wards removed to the right place, without labour, which could not be but by miracle.   

How the river Tagus was parted to make way for the holy Queen, and of one blind, whom she cured.  
THE XIV. CHAPTER.  
Here also followeth à worthy miracle, that God did unto this holy Queen, in the Kingly river Tagus, which runneth by the City of Scalabi. There is in this water made by hands of Angels the sepulchre of S. Irene, after the manner of S. Clement's: this holy Queen had à very great desire to visit the said Sepulchre but seeing she could not pass unto it, through the water, she prayed on the bank with bended knees, and eyes full of tears, when behold, the water parted itself the Sepulchre appeared, and she with great devotion went betwixt the waters upon the sands, giving thanks to God, and to the holy S. for so great grace and favour. There, with great reverence beholding the B. Body, now and then kissing it devoutly, she continued in prayer all the whole day. At her return, the foresaid water followed her with so soft à pace as though it had been à servant to attend her, until she was passed over. Besides this miracle, I shall declare another; this virtuous Queen delivered many people from diverse very grievous infirmities, and great dangers, but one maid borne blind she cured by only touching her eyes, with her holy hand.   

Of her sobriety in her widowhood, and the profitable spending of her time.  
THE XV. CHAPTER.  
We have declared how sober, and abstinent this holy Queen was when her husband lived, and how she observed many fasting days. This virtue she did not only practise in her younger years, but also grown old she was very strict in fasting. While her husband lived, she could not fast so much as she did desire, being he had forbid her, but after the death of the king, her fasts were both long and many, following her own devotion so much, as she would not only abstain from costly, and delicate diet, but also from sufficing her nature with poor and ordinary meats, notwithstanding that she was very near 60. years of age. The pious Princess knew right well how to divide the time both of night and day to her own profit. She had always with her 5. Sisters of the poor Clares: she rose in the night to read her matin's with them, in her Chapel, they also read Prime together, and after heard Mass, with great recollection, than she gave herself wholly to meditation, upon the passion of our lord jesus, with very tender affection sheeding forth abundance of tears, both for her own sins, and others, and praying for the salvation of all. The private mass being ended, she heard solemn mass for the soul of her husband, after that she heard another private mass, so that she let no day pass without hearing of 3. masses which being done she took some necessary refection for the strengthening of her body, though with greater desire she thirsted after heavenly food. After dinner she caused the workmen to be called, and hearing their reconning gave order for building of what remained to be finished. After this she gave audience to all, not letting any depart disconsolate. Then did she retire in to her chamber to recollect herself: and then she went to her chapel to hear the Vesperas, and Complin: which she also read in à lower voice with the religious. Her devotions being ended she took her supper, if it were not fasting day, as with her it was always for the most part; and after this she disposed herself to take her rest. She was of very little sleep, rising in the nights, half Clothed, she prayed upon the bare ground with sighs and groans, with her eyes elevated towards heaven, and then cast down to the feet of crucified jesus she humbly implored the highest to take mercy upon her, and the soul of her husband. Thus praying she would strike her breast to resist sleep till she could no more. Her recreation was, not in seeing plays, nor any other vain delights of this world, but her greatest joy was to be with the Clarisses, where she often remained in her little house she had caused to be builded by the port of the Cloister, that she might live and take her refection with them. She counselled spiritual persons to labour for the perfection of their estate, and to be faithful and loyal to their heavenly spous, this was the delight of holy Elizabeth: she rejoiced exceedingly when any young virgins gave themselves to the service of God: as it appeared in the willingness where with she gave leave to her sister's daughter who desired to be à Clariss, furthering her therein after she had well tried her constancy.   

Of her humility and meekness to all sorts of people.  
THE XVI. CHAPTER.  
THis holy Saint Elizabeth did manifest her love and mildnes to all that were in any necessity, assisting them in all charity without any exception of parsons. When she received injury from any, she did not only pardon the offenders, but would not suffer them to be punished for aught done unto herself. She did so willingly forgive all offences that she was never seen to be angry at any time: following herein the example of S. Elizabeth Queen of Hungary, after whom she was named, as is à forsayed. She builded an hospital near to her house, for the relief of poor people and divided it into two several dwellings the one for men, and the other for women, with all necessaries for their use. She received in to it 15. poor people of either sex: admonishing them to live well and orderly, and to have patience in sickness and poverty: she ordained à Chapel and à mass to be said therein every day for their spiritual comfort: and for their corporal she clothed them every year, and served them like à servant, dressing their meat and helping with great affection those that were sick, lifting them up, and laying their pillows as she thought would give them most ease. There was not any sickness how dangerous so ever that could withdraw her from the service of the poor. Her charity abounded in à time of great necessity, when at Conimbria there was so great à dearth, that many died of hunger: for her Palace was à receptacle of the poor whom she relieved with corn, meat and money, having rather to die herself, then live to see others in want. She likewise provided for all Cloisters, and took care to bury the dead. Many of the courtiers feared her liberality would bring her and them to suffer misery, and therefore they used to put her in mind to take care of her own family, whereunto she was bound: their solicitation in this kind much grieved her, and she requested them not to fear for almighty God would not permit them to want.   

How the holy Elizabeth went disguised, to S. james, to Compostella.  
THE XVII. CHAPTER.  
Having finished the Cloister of S. Clare and reflecting upon the goodness of God showed to her, and many other Princes and kings whom she had outlived: she desired very earnestly to be released of this life, and to be with jesus Christ. Understanding that at Compostella there was à great jubilee, à poena & culpa, secretly without knowledge of her courtiers, in strange apparel, and à staff in her hand, she went thitherwards 64. years old all alone, unless with one or two of her Chamberlains: not withstanding that it was then the heat of summer. She carried her Clothes and other necessary things on her back, begging like à poor woman alms for Goddes-sake. It hath not been often heard that any Queen travailed in this manner. This pilgrimage she made but one year before her death. At her return home she was entreated to make peace between her son Alphonsus, and her daughter's son king of Castille, called also Alphonsus, but she could not effect it, being prevented by death.   

Of the death of this holy Queen.  
THE XVIII. CHAPTER.  
AS the holy Queen travailed towards Estrimotium there to treat of the afore named peace with her son Alphonsus, it pleased almighty God that she fell in to infirmity which seemed at first little, but afterwards great. Before her extremity of sickness she came every day to the Chapel to hear divine service accompanied with the king her son, and having settled all her afaires with him and his wife, her sickness increased so much upon à monday that she kept her chamber, and the king's daughter, her grand child tended her very carefully In this sickness she was visited by the most glorious Virgin Mary who came accompanied with à great troop of Virgins all in white with crowns of gold upon their heads, affectionately bowing them selves toward her: which the holy Elizabeth seeing, and perceiving them to come near unto her, she desired the Queen her daughter in law, and the rest of those who were present that they would give place to that heavenly company: then feeling her death to approach she sent for her Confessor, and having made her confession she made him say mass in another room where she might both see and hear it. The mass being ended, having alone put on her Religious habit, she forced herself with great pain to go to the Altar, where she received the most holy Sacrament devoutly upon her knees the same day that she rendered her blessed soul in to the hands of her creator. Having ended her devotion at the altar, she returned to her bed. About evening (although the Doctors did not think she would have departed so speedily) she called for her son and treated with him of the peace for which she had come thither; after this she desired him to go to supper, and as he was going out with the Doctor, he heard à sudden cry of all that were in the chamber, and coming in, he called upon his dying mother; and kissing her hand she came à little to herself and spoke to him, about things of very great importance: and after, turning herself she cast her eyes upon à crucifix and calling upon our blessed lady whom she had seen in her sickness she gave her spirit into the hands of her redeemer. Anno 1336. being the 4. of july: she was, 65. years of age when she died.   

Of her Burial.  
THE XIX. CHAPTER.  
AS soon as the holy soul was departed from the body, they opened her testament: where they found that she had charged her son Alphonsus to bury her body at Conimbria in the church of S. Clare that she had made. Heerto he appointed the the principalest of his court, who much feared to carry the body so far, by reason of the heat of the time: but the king would accomplish his mother's will. The body being shut in à coffin, and laid upon à waggon: by the shaking upon the way, some moisture issued through the chinks of the chest: which they perceiving that had the care of the body, began to murmur against the king, fearing the evil smell which they presumed would follow. Here upon came one of them to the coffin and felt so sweet à savour as he said he had never felt the like: the rest approaching felt the same: and all of them judged it to be an odour from heaven. On the seaventh day they arrived at Conimbria, when all the city and kingdom was filled with sorrow for the death of so good à Queen. After solemn service, the body was laid in the grave which before she had caused to be made: and it chanced that the hands and clothes of the men that laydit in were besprinkled with à liquor that came out of the body: which gave such à sweet savour as it exceeded the savour of roses or the sweetest flowers.   

Of the miracles which happened after her death.  
THE XX. CHAPTER.  
AFter the death of this holy Queen, many miracles were wrought, by which her merits before Almighty God were made known to the world.  
Two men that had long been sick of violent agues carried the Bear in which the holy body had lain, and comending themselves to the merits of this Saint Elizabeth were forthwith cured.  
A Clariss had long time so great pain in her head and teeth that she could eat no meat: but coming to the Bear she was forthwith cured.  
Ferdinand stephan's à citizen of Conimbria had his foot hurt with à nail which by no means could be drawn out, and commending himself to this holy Queen was presently holpen.  
A woman that had the pestilence, and à carbuncle upon her hand, winding it in à cloth that the holy Elizabeth had used, was presently cured.  
Two blind women visiting her grave received sight instantly.  
The mother of à Canon Regular being blind, and by her son lead to the grave: having there done her devotion, was restored to clear sight instantly.  
Many others of sundry diseases, as of hot agues, burning fevers, possessed by the devil, blind, distract of their wits, etc. coming to her grave, or being anointed with the oil that burned in her lamp: were miraculously cured.   

How it came to pass that her feast was kept: and how her holy body was found entire, and honourably taken up.  
THE XXI CHAPTER.  
THe king Emanuel understanding of the miracles done by the merits of the holy S. Elisabeth, obtained of Pope Leo the X. that in the diocese of Conimbria her feast day might be solemnised: and king John the 3. son of Alphonsus, obtained of Pope Paul the FOUR that the same might be kept over all Portugal. Almighty God by 3. wonderful miracles did show how pleasing this solemnity was unto him▪ for three Clarisses afflicted with incurable diseases, were healed thereat: After this, Philip the 3. of that name king of Spain and Portugal, procured that six persons of note should be ordained to seek out the miracles of this holy Elisabeth, which being done very carefully, the forenamed king sent to Rome to Pope Paul the V. to the end she might be Canonised: but the Pope dying it was not then brought to pass. At last the present Pope Vrbanus the VIII▪ at the request of King Philip the 4. made the foresaid inquisition of the miracles, where after 276. years that she had been dead, to wit, in the year of our lord 1612. her grave having been opened in presence of many witnesses, and expert Doctors of Physic: they found in the tomb à chest of wood covered with ox hides which began to be rotten, shut with bars of iron, that were eaten up with rust: the body wound in double silk: the face honourably covered to the breast with a cypress veil. The body was all entire and whole, the face with lively colour as if she had been but newly buried: and the linen clothes about her still so new, as without great stress they could not be torn. A Religious man that was there, called John Delgado touched the face of the Queen which received the print of his fingers. The great Doctor of Physic Balthasar Azeredo drawn to him three times her arm and it went bàcke to the place every time without breaking. There was found by her in the grave à staff and à purse, which betokened her virtuous life, and liberality to the poor: with the staff she had gone on pilgrimage to S. james. Out of the purse she had reached money to the needy. The Bishop Alphonsus Albicastre, because this rich treasure had been found in his diocese, made (with consent of the king) to the honour of the holy Elisabeth, à costly chapel of polished marble, wtih à guilded arch, under the which he placed à silver shrine, with windows to be opened that as need was the body might be seen, as well without, of the people: as within of the Religious. This good Bishop after he had bestowed 12000. crowns upon the worck, being prevented by death could not finish it: he left with the king of Spain 30000. crowns for the Canonisation, who himself did further it, but being taken away by death saw it not done. in fine, it was brought to an end by king Philip the 4. and she is Canonised by Pope Vrban the VIII. in the year of jubilee 1625. the 25. of May, to the honour and glory of God.  
FINIS.