THE Key of History. OR, A most methodical Abridgement of the four chief Monarchies, Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome.  
Being a general and compendious Chronicle from the Flood.  
Digested into three books.  
Whereunto is added a marginal Chronologie of every Roman Emperors Reign, and of all the most memorable persons and accidents.  
Together with brief illustrations upon the more obscute names, places, and Offices. With a directory table for the more profitable reading of History.  
Written by that excellent and most learned man JOHN SLEIDAN.  
LONDON, Printed by M. Flesher, for William Shears, and are to be sold at his shop near Gray's Inn at the Sign of the Buck, 1627.   

The Translator to the indifferent Reader.  
THE praise of History in general, or this General History, being but tralatitious, especially both speaking their own worth, may be my Apology for both; either to excuse me from the usual encomiums in the preface to most Histories, or dismiss me with Salusts' speech concerning Carthage, 'Tis better to speak nothing, than not to speak home. For the first therefore, Cicero's five most significant, and severally volume-worthy Epithets, shall suffice: History is Time's evidence, Antiquities Herald, Truth's light, memories life, & life's Mistress: And for the other, (this chronical History following) besides the Authors own admired and approved knowledge in history: the large Commentaries, & explication of the original Authors, set forth by the accurate investigation of two reverend Divines, and a famous Poet, warrant it. His main drift, as thou mayst easily perceive, was to be succinct & close, but withal perspicuous, by which he hath made himself the Prince of Epitomists: and, by this transcendent delineation of the four chief Monarchies chief Monarch of all Historians in this kind. For he hath attained to such a height of perfection, that, as Polybius would have it, a man may at the first view, behold the whole body of History, and every member so portrayed to life, that scarce any man of eminency, or act of excellency, either in Church or Commonwealth, is omitted: being withal so exactly and methodically couched together, that thy eye may run in a line, from the beginning to the end. He hath made it a common key to every door, and a little Perspicil to carry thy sight all the world over: the work itself, being the very marrow and quintessence (pardon the metaphors) of all history. The consideration hereof invited me (one most unfit) to adventure the transplantation of this precious exotic root, into our own soil. Wherein my care to the Author's meaning was religious, which (as I supposed) would be the chiefest thing aimed at, especially in an old man's last work (for he ended this book & his life both in one year▪) where we must not look for a panegyrical style, or lofty words (which I might have performed and perhaps with more ease) but, as it is a plain, facile, and methodical narration best suiting with the tender capacity of younger Incipients, for whom the Author intended it, well knowing that oftentimes young wits dote more upon frothy words, then solid matter. Plainness is my ambition, else needed not these little marginal illustrations only to satisfy a mere English Reader. In some places, (if thou considerest not my reasons) I maseeme to swerve from the Author's meaning.  
As in the word Caesar, with the Author uses for Emperor, almost throughout the book. But after Nero I call them all Emperors (only for more plainness) because the line of the Caesars was extinct in him.  
France I call Gallia, till about Honorius his time, when (after the French Germans had seated themselves there) it fell into their name. I have taken the same course too, touching other Countries & Cities, till they changed their names: except such, as still (with very little alteration of the ancient idiem) retained their names, as Vesontio now Besanson, Suessions now Soissons, etc. Some may think, that julius Caesar would have sounded better than Caius Caesar, (by which name the the Author calls him in every place) because that compellation is more commonly known: but questionless the Author's meaning therein, was to avoid all doubts; for we read of more of the Caesars beside him, that had the nomen julius, as Lucius julius Caesar, & Sextus julius Caesar, but never any other called Caius, that ever I heard of.  
For my wellmeaning presumption, in adding the times of each more memorable accident, and of the several reigns of all the Emperors; I hope I shall find pardon, sith it may serve for a little Chronologie.  
Though I cannot be so ambitious to desire a freedom from every open-mouthed Ardelio, when the best deserving men could never yet obtain it; yet I both wish and entreat that every indifferent eye would make a charitable construction of (if I may so call them) my good endeavours, balancing all venial errors, with my young experience, and inconvenience of study, and to accept of the Diamond though not set in its deserved foil: the one may encourage, the other cannot daunt me, for I have set up my resolution, in old Mimnermus his Distich: 
Oblectes animum, plebs est morosa legendo,  
Ille benè de te dicet, & ille malè.   
Farewell.   

TO THE MOST Illustrious Prince, Eberard, Duke of Wittenberg and Leck, Count in Mumpelgart; john Sleidan wisheth all health, etc.  
LIterature being the greatest ornament of your dignity, (Princely Eberard) though it be but indifferent; yet that especially, which comprehends in it the Acts of all ages, suits best to your Condition: And amongst us that profess the name of Christ; the holy Scriptures challenge the highest place in this kind, which both set forth the original of mankind, show us Gods will, & afford us many examples both of his mercy and wrath. Next to them we ought to know, what is delivered to memory concerning other Nations. For scarce can that accident happen, whereof there is not some pattern extant, and in  times practised. In which behalf, those that govern a Commonwealth, have an exceeding great help and furtherance, if they neglect not this kind of learning. Now that way is most commodious, which divides the whole course of this world into four Monarchies. As concerning the first of them, we want Books necessary, having besides the Scripture, almost nothing credit-worthie, or whereupon we may rely. That age questionless was altogether heroical & most illustrious, for surpassing and memorable exploits. But what part thereof came to our hands? Semiramis, Babylon, and Sardanapalus are memorised, and almost nothing else. But for that dreadful, and never yet paralleled, terrible, and dire spectacle seen in any one man, which Nabuchodonozer relates of himself, as Daniel hath it; who ever touched upon it? that a King of such puissance, should be brutified, cast out of his Kingdom, banished from his ancient habitation, thrust out of doors, excluded from all humane society, have his nature metamorphosed, and feed with other bruit beasts, and be quite degenerated into a beast. This is there related plainly; but with what astonishment think we, were they strucken, that beheld this lamentable example of God's Majesty and fury? Therefore I have briefly run over the Assyrian or Babylonian Monarchy, because it must be wholly bounded within the compass of holy Scriptures; but the other three that follow, are very famous by many Author's works; especially the Greek and Roman. Amongst which writers, those (of the Greeks) challenge the first rank, Herodotus, Thucydides, Zenophon and Polybius: for those other that Cicero mentions, Pherecides, Hellanicus, Acufilas, Phyllistus, Agathoclis, Theopompus, Ephorus, Calisthenes, Timaeus, Clitarchus, Silenus, are lost: as also those Latins that wrote the ancient Roman history, whom the same Cicero nominates, viz. the Pontifies Annals, Fabius Pictor, Marcus Portius Cato, Lucius Piso, Caelius Antipater, Caius Vannius, Vennonius, Clodius, Asiso, Accius, Lucius Sisenna. And those indeed were the Authors, out of whom, Titus Livius, who is better half dismembered, and before him, Sallust, imperfect also, collected their works. Cicero indeed used not this kind of writing, but was most studiously versed in it, as his Books witness, which are every where besprinkled and enameled with remembrances of all antiquity: but he was a most diligent observer of the course of times, so as by him, one may attain to the orderly knowledge both of persons, ages, and the times of accidents. For otherwise all writings are obscure: and because he was wont to say, that the writings of histories (especially after the Greek fashion) was very much oratorical: therefore Pomponius Atticus counselled him to this kind of writing, complaining that history stood in need of the Latin tongue: and alleging, that he was able to effect that, which, even in this kind of writing also, would make Rome not inferior to Greece. So he writ a Commentary of his Consulship in Greek, and begun another in Latin, as he saith himself. For he was very desirous to have that year, wherein he was Consul, celebrated by other men's pens: insomuch that he professed, that if they forbore him, he would not forbear himself, but would write concerning himself. Caius Caesar only, writes of his own exploits, and borrowed nothing from any of those before him. Then also flourished Diodorus of Sicilia, and a little after, Dionysius of Halicarnassus: then Plutarch, Suetonius, Cornelius Tacitus, Appianus, Herodianus, Trogus Pompeius, Aelianus, Quintus Curtius: but many of those are either wholly, or the greater part of them lost. After those, many more followed, who (each one continuing the history of his time, or of his Country) held on, even till within our memory. And we must be seen in all those, or at least a good part of them, to furnish ourselves with that ability which is required. Some also we must read for the matter itself; others, for the matter, together with the style and form of speech. In which rank, Caius Caesar alone, justly challenges precedency among the Latins: for none are more pure, none more elegant than his: who for a delectable style, fare excelled not only those that came not long after him, but also all of his time. Besides those before mentioned, we must likewise turn over such Ecclesiastical Authors, as treat of the conversion of Religion, the afflictions of the godly, or the laws and decrees of Counsels and Bishops. And because the holy Scriptures foreshow the Papal kingdom, we must search out the beginning, together with the progress and increase thereof; thereby to enable ourselves, to compare it with those marks and signs which the Scripture hath chalked out. But because this large argument which we have propounded, is various, manifold, and cumbersome, and this field so exceeding spacious, not to be gone over in any short time: some nearer way must be taken, by a methodical course, for the help of younger Students: as for those of deeper experience, they may well enough by themselves, as they say, swim over the whole stream of Writers. And for this end have I undertaken this task, that the Neoterie may have a tract and pathway leading to their further learning, by which in the mean time they may trace, as by a line, till they be grown riper scholars, and come to that proficiency, as to be able to cast away and despise those rudiments. For I have not writ this, that they should be content with, or confine themselves to these bounds, but to give them a taste of their future reading: when being invited by variety of matter, they may be more spurred on, hereafter to perlustrate the Authors and Books themselves, from whence these are culled. But this kind of study properly appertaining to those, that are appointed to the government of a people, as I said before, I suppose (most Noble Duke) I shall not misapply, to your age and condition, in offering up those my small watch work●s to your Highness: so that by you, and through your hands as I may so say, the residue of younger Students may receive some fruit thereof, if any may redound from thence. And albeit, those most worthy men, your Tutors, john Sigismond and Sebastian Cox, use their best diligence about your instruction and erudition: yet as in the culture of a little garden plot, which we desire to have exquisite and arrayed with all kind of flowers, we scorn not any little plants & herbs brought us from another ground; so likewise I hope this small present of mine, sent to the manuring of the seedplot of your learning, will not be inacceptable, being but only offered up for a time, tilyou yourself, having gotten strength, as I said before, be able to walk abroad, and course up & down these open fields & flowery meads. For which course, you have that most renowned Prince, your Father's virtue, for a resplendent pattern: who by his elegant learning, added no small ornament and lustre to his Noble birth; and that which is all in all, he made right use of this his faculty: to wit, that the name of God should be celebrated, Churches & Schools well ordered, godly teachers provided for, and a competency allowed for maintenance of Scholars. For this duty God chief requires at the hands of you Princes; and as he severely punisheth the neglect thereof, so also he remunerates, those with most bountiful rewards, that show themselves faithful Stewards herein. Those examples of your illustrious Father's piety, constancy, and fortitude, might be mentioned by name: but you will read them in good time hereafter, imblazoned at large, & shall know the proper ornaments of Nobility. For he that is benign to good wits, how can it be, that he should not at one time or other, be repaied by them, with the descrued fruits of gratitude, and be celebrated to posterity? Therefore understanding both the dignity of his place, and the charge laid upon him by God; he made it his chief care to have your mind trained up to godliness and learning, even from your young and tender years. And that which is the feeling pulse of a Father's love, nothing ever joyed him more, then to see his expectation bettered by your industry. And I doubt not of your own voluntary propension that way (as much as your age can bear) and your Tutors their diligent vigilancy. Wherefore Illustrious Prince, proceed auspiciously, and as you are borne to the government of a Commonwealth, so furnish yourself with such ammunition, as is both perpetual, and will afford infallible aid: and not only extenuate the labour, which you must sometimes undergo in governing an ancient Province, but also make it easy and pleasant.  
From Strasburg, Anno Dom. 1556.   


JOHN SLEIDAN of the four chief Monnarchies. OR, The key of History.  
The first Book.  
BEfore I treat of the four chief and principal Monarchies of the world, Babylon, Persia, Greece and Rome: I must speak a word or two of the great difference, about computation of years from the beginning of the world; for the Hebrews, Eusebius, S. Austin; Alphonsus, and Mirandula, do exceedingly vary amongst themselves. But because almost all the learned men of our times, do in this point follow the account of the Hebrews: I also (seeing the case so stands) will tread in their steps. And first of all, that I may come to my purpose, I mean the first Monarchy, (passing by those occurrents which happened in the 
a Gen. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6, chap.  first age of all, as also the narration of the Flood, sit hence all those are contained in holy Scriptures, and cannot be better expressed,) I'll take start at that time, when the race of mankind being reduced to a very small number, begun (after that the 
* Moles.  massy multirude of waters was again dispersed, and the earth made dry) to increase anew. The time of the Flood is referred to the year of the world, 1656. and 
b Gen 5.  Mathusalah the seventh from Adam, died at that very time, being 969. years of age. 
c Gen 7.  Noah Mathusalah his 
* Nepos.  Grandchild by his son Lamech, (being then 600. years of age, and by God's especial favour, preserved together with his family,) now when the number of men begun to multiply by little and little, was the first that caused his children and posterity, by removing into several Countries, to inhabit the earth, and build themselves cities: and afterwards (about the hundreth year after the Flood) allotted to each of them his proper Province.  
At which time, Nimrod Noah's Grandchildes' son, together with his retinue, inhabited the land of the Chaldees, but at length (the multitude of men still multiplying,) many were necessarily enforced to remove and seek out new seats and Colonies. They before their departure, desirous to leave their perpetual memorial behind them, did thereupon (
d Gen. 11. It is credible that hereupon the Poets took occasion to make that fiction of the Giants, who beaping moantaine upon mountain, went about to overthrew the gods. Michael Glycas writes, that there were forty years spent about building of this Tower.  Nimrod being their Chieftain) begin to build a City, and within that, a Tower of transcendent height: And forgetting God's wrath, which had so lately swallowed up the whole Globe of the earth, & whereof Noah without all doubt, had very much, very often, and diligently preached to them: intended to extend the fame of their own names, by vainglorious and ambitious works. But God herewith offended, made frustrate these their enterprises, sending amongst them a confusion of tongues: whereas before that time, there was but one and the same kind of language all the world over. Thus being constrained to surcease their begun work, they departed into several parts of the world. From this confusion of tongues, the city called Babel, took the name: & from the time, I mean from the 131. year after the Flood, or thereabouts, the kingdom of the Chaldees & Babylonians took the beginnings. The first King thereof was Nimrod, before spoken of, who as it is written, ruled 56. years. The Scripture styles him the 
e Gen. 10. 1 Chron. 5. Mich 5. The land of Babylon is called the land of Nimrod.  mighty Hunter, and attributes to him strength and puissance. Others call him Saturn, and report, that in the 45. year of his reign, he sent away certain Princes of Colonies, hither and thither, as Assur, Madas, Magog, and Mosech. Those erected kingdoms after their own names, as Assyria, Media, 
f Suidas writes, that the Persians were so called, but Melanctho● think them to be the now Turks.  Magog, and Moscow, the two first whereof do wholly belong to Asia, and the third and last to Asia and Europe. The Scripture makes mention of this 
g Assur. Gen. 10. Belus.  Assur, and that Ninive was by him builded. jupiter Belus succeeded his Father Nimrod, who (as history speaks) possessed all the Country from the sunne-serting to Sarmatia in Europe, and afterwards made war against Sabbatius King of Saga, whom not he, by reason he was prevented by death, 
Ninus the first Monarch, about 1905. of the world.  but his son Ninus subdued: who extending his dominions fare and wide, was the first that ever took upon him a Monarchy. Noah died 350. years after the Flood, and about the 18, year after his death, 
b Gen. 11.  Abraham the tenth from Noah (so commanded by God) left his Country, being then 75 years of age, and in 
i Gen. 17.  24 year after that, God made a covenant with him, by ordaining the circumcision. In the 
k Gen. 21.  100 year of his age, his son Isaac was borne unto him: he lived after that, 75. years, for the term of man's life was now much shortened. The manner of his Grandchild 
l Gen. 37.  jacobs' life, and upon what occasion he went down into Egypt, and there died: how afterwards his posterity remained in Egypt for some ages, oppressed with most grievous bondage, and by God's favour brought out and set at liberty by his servant Moses, the holy 
m From the 30, ch. of Gen. to the 14. of Exod.  Scriptures declare. This departing of the children of Israel out of Egypt, is referred to the year of the world, 2454. that is, 430 years after the promise made to Abraham, as 
n Gal. 3.  S. Paul hath it. After Moses, the children of Israel were governed by judges, till the days of Saul, whom David, (another King of the same people) succeeded. Now let us return to the Empire of Babylon; Ninus being dead, his wife Semiramis succeeded him in his Empire: 
Semiramis.  who in riches, victories, and triumphs, was inferior to no mortal Prince. She enlarged the town of Babylon; and made it a city of sufficient greatness, adorning it with diverse fair buildings, and environing it with a wall. She subdued Aethiopia, and made war also in India. Her son Zameis the fifth King, 
Zameis.  performed nothing worthy of memory; 
Arius.  but Arius, who next succeeded him, conjoined the Bactrians and Caspians to his Empire. It is written, that Aralius his successor was renowned for his wit and prowess, 
Aralius.  but what he achieved, is not committed to writing. The next to him, 
Baleus.  Baleus, subdued many Nations, extending his dominions even unto judea, and was therefore surnamed Xerxes, that is, a conqueror, and triumpher, or warrior. Armatrites the ninth, 
Armatrites.  was altogether given over to pleasure and idleness. There is nothing written of Belochus the tenth, 
Belochus.  but that he applied himself to the study of soothsaying and divining. Baleus the eleventh, paralleled Semiramis, in renown for his prowess, and military industry, and hath the fame, to have been highly extolled in sundry learned men's works. 
Altadas.  Altadas the twelfth, of him it is recorded, that he followed his ease and tranquillity of life, accounting it a point of folly, to be wearied with multiplicity of labours, and fettered with variety of cares, about enlarging the bounds of his kingdom, because it tended not to the weal and commodity of any men, but rather to their endamagement & servitude. His successor Mamitus the thirteenth, 
Mamitus.  stirred up his subjects on fresh again, to diligence and industry in military affairs, and his puissance gave cause of suspicion to the Syrians and Egyptians. For Mancaleus the fourteenth, 
Mancaleus.  his actions afford not argument worth the discourse. 
Spharus.  Sphaerus the fifteenth is commended for his great virtue and wisdom. There is no mention in writing of any memorable act performed by Mamelus the sixteenth. 
Mamelus. Sparetus.  In Sparetus the seventeenth his reign histories report, that wondrous accidents happened every where. 
Ascatades.  Ascatades the eighteenth brought all Syria under his subjection. And thus fare the supposed Berosus, of whose writings almost all men make a doubt, & think them counterfeit: but because we have no other records extant, they follow this order. 
o See their names at the end of the Book.  Others reckon 20 Kings more together with Sardanapalus, making him the eight and thirtieth King of the Assyrians. This King as without all compare the most effeminate of men, continually sitting amongst harlots, spining and carding with them, and so totally plunged in voluptuousness, that he would scarce ever show himself in public. For this cause two of his Rulers, Belochus of Babylon, & Arbaces of the Medes, alienating their affection from him, after they had emblazoned his filthiness and lasciviousness up and down amongst the vulgar: made war against him. He with his womanish troops, having scarce joined battle (such was his bad success) fled to his palace, and ●here causing a great fire to be made, threw himself and all his goods into it. In this deed only, 
The Monarchy divided,  as a certain writer saith, showing himself a man. Afterwards these two rulers divided the Monarchy betwixt them, Belochus was made King of Babylon, and Arbaces of the Medes. 
After is had stood 1300 years  Thus Sardanapalus was the last king in that course when that Monarchy had stood 1300. years, for almost all their Kings lived exceeding long.  
Belochus the nine & thirtieth, 
Belochus. 2 King. 15. 1 Chron. 5.  or if it seem better, the first King of the Assyrians in the new Monarchy, compelled Manasses King of Israel to pay him Tribute: the Scripture calls him not Belochus but Phul. 
Phul Assur. 2 King. 15. 2 Chro. 28.  Phul Assur, surnamed Tiglath Pileser, succeeded him. He took some certain Cities in judea, and carried away the people captive into Assyria. Achas King of juda, in whose time the Prophet Isaias lived, desired aid from this Tiglath against the King of Syria, 
Salmanassar.  and sent him presents. After Tiglath followed Salmanassar, who after three year's siege, took the City of Samaria, and carried away captive Hosea King of Israel, and his people, and allowed them a dwelling place in his own Dominions even amongst the Medes as the Scripture saith, 
2 King. 18.  whereupon some gather that he ruled also over the Medes. His successor Senacherib kept his Court in the City of Niniveh: 
Senacherib. 2 King. 18.  He made Ezekiah King of juda tributary to him, and soon after besieged jerusalem with a mighty Army, and by his Ambassadors exhorting the people to make a revolt: 
2 King. 19  and scoffed at their King, who hoped for help from his God. But he escaped not unpunished, for God by his Angel in one night slew 185000. of his men, as a little before he had confirmed it to Ezekias by his Prophet Isaiah. 
Isa. 37.  After his return home, he was slain by his own sons. 
Tob. 1.  Till this time, the Babylonians after Sardanapalus his overthrow, were in subjection to the Assyrians. Senacherib, as we said before, having received such a destruction at jerusalem, and not long after slain by his own sons: there followed a great change in the State of the Kingdom, which was then divided. For the two brothers Adramalech, and Sarazar, who had committed the parricide fled. Notwithstanding they levied forces, and prepared Arms against their brother Assaradon, 
Assaradon. 2 King. 19  who after his father's death had seized upon the Kingdom: having formerly governed the Commonwealth in his father's 
p Isa. 37. Merodach.  absence. Merodach Governor of Babylon taking hold on this fair occasion, 
2 Kings 20. 2 Chro. 32.  for his own good success: revolted, proclaiming war: and having by degrees, partly by favour, partly by force, drawn in the neighbouring countries round about him, to his party, and overcome Assaradon in the 12. year of his reign: annexed the whole Empire of the Assyrians, to the Babylonians, and reigned 
q Isai. 39 & 50. Be●●nerodach. Nabuchodonozor, 1.  forty years after. Many reckon, next after him, Benmerodach, and Nabuchodonozor the first of that name: but seeing the holy Scripture discovers nothing hereabouts: nor can we rashly give credit to others, we'll rank that Nabuchodonozor whom the Scripture makes much mention of, 
Nabuchodonozor the Great.  next in order after Merodach. He therefore within few years after his entrance, made war with the 
r Kings 24. jerem. 46.  Egyptians: and took from them the whole Country therefrom Euphrates to 
s Suidas calls this Peleusiuns, the Key of Egypt, It is now called Damietta.  Peleusium, made tributary to him 
t 2 K●n. 24.  joachim King of juda, and in the eight year of his reign carried away captive to Babylon his son jechonias, together with his chief men, and artificers, not only of the City of jerusalem, but also of the whole Country. In the eighteenth year of his reign he took 
* Kings 15. 2 Chro. 36  jerusalem, after two year's siege, & within a while after 
u jerem. 52  sacked, burned it, & broke down the walls, carried away most part of the people, putting out king Zedekias his eyes; and killing his sons, and noblemans. 
jerem. 25.  The Prophet jeremy, had foretold this calamity in the first year of Nabuchodonozor's reign: and from this time we must reckon the 70. year's captivity of Babylon. Nabuchodonozor, about the four and twentieth year of his reign having overcome the kings of the 
x jer. 46.  Ammonites, and Moabites) passed into Egypt with an army: where having got possession of all that Country, afterwards begun his Monarchy. In the second year of his Monarchy, as the learned of our times collect, he saw in his dream a great Image, whose head was of gold, the breast and arms of silver, the belly and thighs of brass, the legs of iron, the feet part of iron, part of clay. When he awaked, and could not call to mind what he had dreamt, but yet remained mightily astonished, calling together his Magicians and soothsayers, charged them under pain of death to interpret his dream. Daniel a young man. Captive with the rest of his Nation, brought thither from jerusalem, signified that he could satisfy the king's desire: being brought forth, first he shown what the dream was, and afterwards interpreted the meaning thereof. The Image said he, signifies the four chief Monarchies of the world, which are to succeed in order, and turning his speech to the King himself; Thou, said he, whom God hath invested with supreme power and glory, to whom he hath given rule over all men, beasts of the field, fowls of the air; Thou I say art the Golden Head of that Image. After thee another kingdom of silver shall arise, worse than this of thine: afterwards the third kingdom of brass which shall bear rule fare and wide: but the fourth kingdom shall be of iron, for as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things, so also shall the fourth and last, break in pieces all the rest, and bring them in subjection to it. This therefore is the first and formerly never heard of prophecy, of the four Monarchies, which God revealed to us by his Prophet Daniel. A thing truly worthy to be committed to memory, because in a few words it comprises the history of all ages, until the end of the world: as afterwards I am to speak of. Now it sufficeth how at this time first of all, God hath discovered to us, the order and successive course of the Monarchies. 
Dan. 4.  That place in Daniel also; manifests more clearly of what great puissance this Nabuchodonozor was: where the Scripture compares him to a Tree, whose height reached to heaven, which, as it were, oue●shaddowed the whole earth: whose leaves were very fair, and most abundantly loaden with fruit, whereby all creatures were fed and fattened: in whose branches & boughs, all manner of fowl dwelled and made their nests. This therefore is the first Monarchy: which, as it was exceedingly amplified in this King's reign & hoist up to the very highest step. So also it fell away and in his Nephew's time was quite extinguished even as God had denounced by Daniel, and other of his Prophets. This Nabuchodonozor reigned three & forty years. It would quite the cost if all mortal men, especially Kings and Princes, would read & diligently consider, with how dreadful a spectacle and example; God (as Daniel sets it down) revenged his pride: 
Dan. 4. and 5.  that so they might the more reverence God's divine Majesty, 
Euilmerodach. 2 King. 25. jerem. 51.  and perform that office to the people, which is committed to them. His son Euilmerodach succeeded him, he reigned 30 years, 
Assur. Labassardach.  and his successor Assur three years. Labassardach, who reigned 
y Metasthener and others say but 6.  even years, succeeded him. After him Balthasar bore rule ●●ue years: Many reckon them after this manner, but the learned of our time, omitting two of them, 
Balthasar.  put Balthasar next after his father Euilmerodach, & writ that he reigned 14. y. which is very necessary to make the perfect number of 70. years, during which space the jews were in captivity to the Babylonians: sithence their captivity begun in the nineteenth year of Nabuchodonozor's reign. Those who observe this order and leave out the two Kings before spoken of follow the Tract of Scripture, and especially the Prophet Ieremie●s testimony, 
jerem. 25.  who prophesied that the jews should serve the King of Babel, his son, and his son's son, but in this point let every man have his judgement free to himself. Howbeit Balthasar, as the Scripture mentions, was the last King of the Babylonians, 
Dan. 5.  and in this all Writers agree. As for the manner of the taking of Babylon, many Authors describe it. 
Dan. 5.  Daniel also mentions how God denounced to this King, his imminent and even present calamity, and relates how the government of the Monarchy, after that King was slain, was translated to Darius the Mede, 
Darius.  than 62. years of age. Many Writers call this Darius, Cyarxes, who was the son of Astyages, eight King of the Medes, whom Daniel calls Assuerus, 
Dan. 9  who having no issue male, bestowed his daughter in marriage upon Cyrus the King of Persia's sister son: and being provoked to enter into a war with the King of the Assyrians, sent for aid to Cyrus, who leading his forces thither, and being made General of the whole army, returned conqueror, having taken that most powerful 
z Babylon. Dan. 9  City. It is recorded that Darius lived not above a year after this victory. And then, when Darius was yet living after the taking of Babylon, and the children of Israel, 
jer. 25. and 29. Dan. 9  had by this time, remained captive in Babylon, almost 70. years: God revealed in more ample manner to Daniel, according to his prayers in that behalf, who made known the same to the Prophet jeremy, foreshewer of the captivity: 
Cyrùs founder of the second Monarchy of the Persians, when the first of the Assyrians, had stood about 1538. years, this was about 3434.  and did not only confirm the nearnes of their freedom, but also shown what time the Messiah should come, who should satisfy for the sins of men.  
After Darius his death, the sway of government was committed to his son in law Cyrus, and this is the beginning of the second Monarchy; for now Cyrus alone held in his own hands, Assyria, Media and Persia, even to the Ionian sea, as Thucydides hath it, having before his winning of Babylon, taken Croesus that most puissant King of Lydia. So this Cyrus is first King of the Persians, and founder of the second Monarchy. This most renowned Prince, having vanquished the Babylonians, made war with the Scythians, whether going with his army, and at length entrapped and environed by his enemies, was there slain. In the beginning of his reign, after the taking of Babylon, he permitted the jews to return home again out of captivity, 
2 Chro. 16.  that they might re-edify the Temple, and the City of jerusalem, and to that purpose bestowed very liberally out of his own Treasury. 
Isai. 44. and 45.  God by his Prophet Isai, had foretold him by name, some ages before he was born. Xenophon brings him in, discoursing with his sons before his death, about the immortality of the soul, as Cicero hath it, who interprets that place, as all others, very elegantly. Cyrus' reached the 70. year of his age, and reigned 30 years, being 40. years old at the beginning of his reign. His son's name was Cambyses, 
Cambyses.  whom, when he went from home to the Scythian war, he set over his Kingdom. He (his Father being absent and in employments) took Egypt. In war indeed he was renowned, but otherwise vicious, and did not represent his Father's virtues. Among the rest of his filthy and savage deeds, he commanded his own brother to be slain treacherously. Plato in his books, which he writ of the Laws, reports how Cyrus was very much to blame, for that he brought up his sons effiminately, amongst women: who, when they grew into riper years, being corrupted by flatterers, for the most part abusing their cares; did, after their Father's decease, 
Darius' the son of Histaspis.  endanger one another's life.  
Darius' the son of Hystaspis succeeded Cambyces, second King of the Persians, who survived his Father but a short space. And by reason that many of his subjects, & together with the rest, the Babylonians did, (after Cyrus his death, and so great an overthrow of his army) revolt from the kingdom of Persia: He took arms at the first step of his reign, and reunited them to his Empire, having after a long siege, taken Babylon also by help of 
a He mangled himself, cutting off his cares, nose, and lips, feigning that Darius had so published him, for speaking in the Babylonians behalf, when eupon they received him, and by that policy, he got the City for Darias.  Zopyrus. Within a while after, he made war against the Athenians, who upon a sudden, mustering up their forces, not expecting any aid from the Lacedæmonians, did at Marathon, with about 10000 men, Miltiades being their Leader, overcome his huge 
b It consisted of 600000. men.  army. Darius was aminded to renew the war, but death prevented him, in his very first attempt: whose son and successor, 
Xerxes.  Xerxes in the tenth year after the battle at Marathon, as Thucydides relates, came with an 
c Some confine it to 1000000 but Justine extends it to 2000000 and Herodotus to more.  innumerable army, with intent to subdue all Greece. Hereupon the chief managing of these wars, was by common consent committed to the Lacedæmonians, because they bore greatest sway all over Greece: but the Athenians followed Themistocles his counsel, quitting their City, leaving their wives and children in one place or other, betook themselves to their ships, and joining battle with the enemy at Salamina, overcame him. That victory was very commodious to all Greece in general, for Xerxes being also expelled their Country, did by an infortunate and a dishonourable flight, 
In a little Fisher's boat.  return home, and the Grecians likewise after his departure. But the Athenians having a Navy of 400. sail, or thereabouts, coasting on further, and pursuing their enemies, took the town of Sestos upon Hellespont, which the Persians held: and there wintring, afterwards returned home, gathered together their dispersed wives and children, and repaired the walls of their City (which the enemy burned when he took it) and fortified the Port. This war of the Persians, or (as Thucydides calls it) of the Medes, happened, as Cicero writes, almost at the very same time, with the Volscian war, where the exiled Roman Coriolanus was General: 
Xerxes' his war, An. Mund. 3488  and that was in the 266. year after the building of Rome. Herodotus, before Thucydides, writ of this Persian war. Cicero calls him the Father of history, but reports that his writings are stuffed with an infinite company of fables, The Lacedæmonians were sore offended at this fortification of the Athenians, but sith they could not tell how to amend themselves, buried all in murmuring silence: and both they, as also the rest of the Grecians, together with the Athenians, joining forces, took the I'll of Cyprus, and the City 
d Now called Constantinople.  Byzantium, which the Persians held.  
Among the rest of the Lacedaemonian Captains in this war, Pausanias was one, who (being condemned of treason) after he was returned home, and lay besieged in a certain Sanctuary, was famished to death with hunger. Themistocles also (being in like manner accused) fled. Soon after this, Greece was tossed up and down with sundry wars and dissensions, partly foreign and partly domestical, which Thucydides pithily relates. But at length, in the fiftieth year after Xerxes' departure out of Greece, as Cicero reports it after Thucydides, that cruel war sprung out when the whole Country of 
e Now called Morea.  Peloponnesus, conspired against the Athenians; Pericles, Anaxagoras his scholar, being their Leader in that war; who, as Aristophanes reports, lightened, thundered, and set all Greece on fire with his tongue. For these in times past, were the masterpieces of prowess and eloquence. On the other part, Archidamus King of the Lacedæmonians had supreme command. Thucydides who writ of this war, was both equal to, and emulous of Pericles. Sophocles the tragical Poet, was, as Cicero writeth, Pericles his colleague, in the Generalship.  
Now let us return to Xerxes. He, by reason of such his bad success, being grown into contempt, was slain by his own subjects. 
Artaxerxes Long-hand.  His son Artaxerxes Long-hand succeeded him. To him fled the exiled Themistocles, whom we spoke of a little before, and there 
f Poisoned himself, because he would not go with Artaxerxes to sight against his own Country. Darius' Nothus.  ended his life, & was buried at Magnesia. After Long-hand, Darius Nothus reigned, who married his own sister. In the beginning of this King's reign, happened the aforesaid Peloponnesian war. And the Athenians, though they had remoras enough beside, yet in the fourth year of this war, as Thucydides recites in his third book, they sent a Navy into Sicily, under pretence to aid the Leontinians, against the Syracusans, but their intent was to bring that Island under their subjection, that so they might more conveniently subdue Greece, and afterwards when they were returned, and fostered their own factions, Hermocrates of Syracuse, was the first that moved the Sicilians to live in peace, laying aside all grudges, for the Athenians had laid snares of bondage, to entrap the liberty of their whole country, & his persuasion took effect. This was in the seventh year of this war.  
Three years after this, the Athenians and Peloponnesians, concluded a truce for fifty years, but it held not full seven: for even then many outrages were broached, and though the peace were not quite abolished, and gaps of offences committed, were ever anon stopped up again by truces; yet in the 17 year, they burst forth again into open war with full forces, & this second war continued ten years. Then the Athenians send over again their Navy, most exquisitely furnished, into Sicily. The chief Commanders, whereof among the rest, were Alcibiades and Nicias. Nicias very earnestly (declaiming certain Orations to that purpose) dissuaded them from this voyage: but Alcibiades persuaded the contrary. The Peloponnesians gave aid to the Sicilians: at length, the Athenians encounter with their enemies in the Port of Syracuse: but after a doubtful and dangerous battle, were all of them put to flight and slain. In the mean time, the Lacedæmonians and their confederates, conclude a league against the Athenians with Darius' King of Persia. Tissaphernes was Darius his Ambassador. Next after, Codrus, Polydore of Sparta, and Aristomenes of Messene: these following are for the most part reputed the chief and most renowned Captains of the Greeks': some whereof performed worthy service for the whole Country of Greece, and every one for his own country at the least: as, Miltiades, Leonidas, Themistocles, Pericles, Aristides, Pausanias, Xantippus, Leotychidas, Cimon, Conon, Epaminondas, Leosthenes, Aratus of Sicyon, Philopoemen. Most of these were at length banished their countries. Cicero describes the Port of Syracuse, and reports how the Athenian Navy only, which consisted of 300. ships, did within man's memory, invade it, and was vanquished and overthrown within the same, by reason of the advantage in the situation and nature of the place, and port itself: and then first of all was the puissance of that City borne down, abated and overwhelmed, and shipwreck was made of Nobility, Government and Glory. Thucydides relates, that the circuit of Sicily is as much as a great vessel can sail round about in eight day's space: and that the Island is distant from the Continent, about twenty 
g Two miles and a ha●e.  furlongs.  
Darius had two sons Artaxerxes Mnemon, and Cyrus; 
Artaxerxes Mnemon.  the first whereof succeeded his father, and Cyrus governed lonia: but not being content with his own share, made war upon the King his brother, & was there overthrown and slain. Marcus Portius Cato, as Cicero hath it, calls this Cyrus the younger King of Persia, a man of an excellent wit, and the glory of his Kingdom. He commends him also for his delight in husbandry, as Xenophon writes of him: for this Xenophon was one of his soldiers, and very familiar with him, and for that cause was afterwards driven into exile by the Athenians who were in league & amity with Mnemon. 
Ochus. Darius.  After Mnemon reigned Ochus, his third and youngest son. Darius' the last of all succeeded. Against him, Alexander King Philip of Macedon his son, made war: who, after he had subdued Thebes and pacified Greece, set forward into Asia, & in three battles overthrew Darius, taking his mother, wife and daughters, prisoners. Darius' offered him very large conditions, & part of his kingdom to the river of Euphrates: but he refused both, and ceased not, till he had overthrown him: for when Darius saw that he could not make his peace upon these conditions, he renews the war the third time, and coming against him with a most puissant Army was the third time overthrown, and as he fled, slain by his own men: when, together with him, the Monarchy of Persia, which had stood 200. years was extinguished.  
Alexander by these famous victories, brought under his subjection almost all the countries lying Eastward, 
The third Monarchy of the Greeks' founded by Alexander the Great about 3609. after the Persian Monarchy had stood about 200. years.  translated the Imperial feat out of Asia, into Europe, and founded the third Monarchy. After this, he made wars in India, but, such is the weakness of mortal men, those blasts of ful-handed and indulgent fortune, could not breath upon him, but must needs puff him up with ambition: when having played many insolent pranks, and in a manner commanded divine worship to be given him: coming to Babylon there died of a fever, or (as many writ) of poison, being 33 years of age, and having reigned 12 years. Calanus an Indian, as Cicero relates, foretold him of his death, whom, as he was going to be 
h He caused himself to be burnt following the ancient custom of the chiefemen of his Nation.  burnt, Alexander asked if he had any thing to say, Oyes, quoth he, I shall see thee ●re it be long. Within a few days after Alexander breathed his last, which was (as it is commonly taken) in the hundred & fourteenth 
i Games in honour of jupiter celebrated every fift year: they begun An. mund. 3186 〈◊〉 Most authors (as Meibomius notes) agree that he died in the 429 y. after the building of Rome.  Olympian, & in the four hundred and ninth year after the building of the City of Rome, which is 322. years before the birth of Christ. He was a very devout lover of good Arts, & most liberal towards learned men: & is therefore highly extolled in many of their works. He delighted much in Homer's Poems, and though we read that he was never without many learned men about him to record his acts: yet when he stood before Achilles his tomb in Sigeum. O happy young man, said he, that hast found such an Herald as Homer to proclaim thy virtues. For as he would (rather then any others) have Apelles his 
l Painter.  Pictor, and Lysippus his 
m Statuist.  Fictor: so would he have his worth extolled and commended to the memory of posterity, by such, as in setting forth his glory, could purchase renown to their own wits. He employed his Tutor Aristotle, about describing the nature of all living creatures, and for that purpose procured certain thousands of men, throughout Greece & Asia: as Graziers, Huntsmen, Fishermen, Fishmongers, Fowlers, & many more such like, to give him information of each creature. It's written that he gave to the Author himself in recompense of his labour, 800 Talents, which amounts as the learned of our times collect to 1480. Crowns. He sent Xenocrates the Philosopher 50 Talents, by his Ambassador, which comes to 1030 Crowns, which when he refused and sent him word back again by his Ambassadors that he hath no need of so much money. What, said he, has he no friend, whom he may benefit by them?  
In his tender years, when he was Aristotle's scholar, he was, as Cicero writes, endued with a most excellent wit, and exceeding great modesty, but afterwards advanced with the title of King. He grew proud, cruel and deboist. Historiographers tell wondrous stories of Darius his gorgeous pomp, delicious pastimes, and riotous exesse: For he kept within his Tents Cooks of all kinds, Hucksters, cranmers of fowl, Artificers, clerks of his kitchen, and Confectioners: lest he should be unprovided of any means that might increase his bodily pleasure. Many writers speak of the Kings of Persia their solemnities and sumptuous provision in their daily banquets elsewhere. They were wont to keep many wives, as Cicero writes, and to those they gave certain cities, that such a city should find such a woman with all manner of attire for her head, and such a City with this or that apparel. Such was Darius his end, as I formerly recited, who as he fled from Alexander, drinking foul water polluted with dead corpses: denied that ever in all his life he drunk a more pleasant draught: for he never drunk when he was a thirst, before that time.  
After Alexander's death, his spacious Empire was divided amongst his Nobles, Ptolomeus, Laomedom, Antigonus, Cassander, Leonatus, Eumenes, Python, Lysimachus, Antipater, Meleager, Seleucus, but the chief of those was Seleucus, afterwards made King of Syria, as also Ptolomeus of Egypt, Antigonus of the lesser Asia, and Cassander of the Macedons & Greece, having quite cut off all Alexander's alliance. This Lysimachus is he, whom Alexander being on a time angry with, caused to be shut up with a Lion: but when he heard how he had killed the beast, highly esteemed of him. Now most grievous wars, as it is common, arose betwixt those forenamed successors and their sons and Nephews: for the mind once corrupted with ambition can admit no rest, but plots how to augment its own power, by committing injury upon other men. And all these Countries being most miserably afflicted with those wars, by reason they were continual, by little and little grew into subjection to the Romans, who extending their dominions fare and wide, made up the fourth and last Monarchy, whereof I am now to speak.  
But amongst Alexander's successors in this Kingdom of Egypt, Ptolomeus Philodelphus was one, a most laudable Prince: For he, as much as in his lay, kept peace with all, stirred up the liberal sciences, appointing stipends for scholars, erected a most copious Library and commanded the books of Moses, and the Prophets, to be translated into the Greek tongue.  
The beginning of the city of Rome therefore, was at that time when Salmanassar before mentioned, reigned in Assyria, that is in the first year of the seventh Olympiad, according to Plutarch, and of the world, 3212. when as, almost 400. years before, 
Rome built 3212.  Aeneas had begun his reign in 
n A part of Italy.  Latium, after the Trojan wars, which Homer left to the memory of posterity: of whose 
o Herodotus, Dion: Halicarnass. Solinus, and Gellius (as Meibomius notes) writeth of his time.  time, as likewise of his 
p Gellius also writes of his Country.  country, there is no certainty extant: only Cicero writes that many years before the building of Rome, and Romulus: there was such a man. Howsoever there is no profane writing of more antiquity than his Poem: for as Horace saith; 
Many brave worthies  
flourished ere those days,  
When Agamemnon shined,  
whose bootless praise  
Hath not the force  
t'attract one liquid eye:  
For lasting night  
with black obscurity,  
In ignorance enveloped  
hath their names,  
Wanting no Herald  
to proclaim their fames.   
Cicero also signifies as much, who writes that there was not the tract of an Orator to be seen before Homer's time.  
As for the original of Rome, it was but mean and in a manner contemptible, but because God hath so ordained as afterwards it shall be declared: it grew up to the height of potency. In their first beginning seven Kings reigned over them, 244. years. And in Servius Tullus the sixth King's reign, Solon and Pisistratus flourished in Athens, and Pythagoras in Italy, as Cicero writes. At what time Tarqvinius the proud was expelled. He writes also that in this Servius Tullus his reign, Athens had then stood about 700. years. Having expelled their Kings, the government of their State was translated to two Consuls, whose office was annual. The first was Lucius junius Brutus, one no less vehement and diligent about expulsion of the Kings, and setting up the liberty of his Country: then vigilant and valiant in preservation thereof. For when his own two sons, Titus and Tiberius, amongst other Nobleman's sons of Rome, had communed together in private consultations, about calling in again of the Tarquins: after the matter was openly disclosed, he put them to open death He also abrogated his Colleague Tarqvinius Collatinus his authority, who was his associate in expelling of the Kings, as also coadjutor in his Counsels. Cicero defends this fact as just, and saith it was no less profitable than honourable to his Country, that thereby both the name of the Tarquins, and the remembrance of the Kingdom might be extinguished. But in this variable fortune of the Romans, when all 
q Tuscanie.  Hetruria had conspired against them, three hundred of the 
a 306. as Livy, Florus, Ovid, etc.  Fabies marched out of the City against the enemy, and were all slain, saving a child which was left at home, and so left alive: who afterwards raised the house again: this happened in the thirty three year after the expulsion of the Kings. By reason of the troublesome state of the Commonwealth, Ambassadors were sent into Greece, in the three hundred year after the building of the City, to fetch from thence, the laws, which the City of Rome should use. After their return the form of government of the Commonwealth, was changed, and the 
r Ten Noblemen appointed to govern in stead of Consuls.  Decemvirs were put in authority with the government thereof, but this order held not full three years: for Appius Claudius, one of the Decemvirs, by his lewdness in violently carrying away a Virgin, daughter to Lucius Virginius, a Citizen of Rome, to serve his lust: gave occasion to the people wholly to subvert this order. So the government returned to the Consuls, but those two, held it but a few years: and then two 
s Much like our Knight Marshals at this day.  Tribunes of the Soldiers were constituted with Consular authority: but they before their year was out, left off their office, and made room again for the Consuls: and at this time, which was in the three hundred & fifteenth year of Rome built, Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus the Dictator, caused Caius Servilius Hala, master of the Cavalry, to kill Spurius Melius, & also plucked down his house, because he endeavoured by his lavish liberality of corn in the City, to procure the Kingdom. Two years after this, the government was reduced to the Tribunes of the Soldiers, who afterwards were not bipartite, but more were created at one and the same time, as the people pleased, and the state of the Commonwealth required.  
This kind of government continued almost 70. years, and among the rest in this office, flourished, Marcus Furius Camillus, inferior to none for valour: who, though he had done worthy service for the Commonweal, yet his ingrateful country, thrust him out into banishment, after he had been Tribune of the Soldiers the fourth time: but after he had recovered the Citio out of the hands of the 
t Inhabiting in and about Sons in Gallia.  Gallisenons, who had taken it, and vanquished the enemy, was restored to his former dignity, and within two years after made 
u He had power regal, and was never chosen, but when the Commonwealth was in great danger, and could not hold his place above half a year.  Dictator. A few years after this, Marcus Manlius, he that defended the Capitol against the Gauls, being suspected of affecting sovereignty, was pitched headlong from the top of the hill Tarpeium, and a law made, that no man descending from the stock of any Senator of the house of the Manlies', should be called Marcus. After this, Camillus was the seventh time created Tribune of the Soldiers, and being very old, ended his life in the 389. year after the building of Rome: the government being a year before his death, again reduced to the Consuls. The first whereof was a 
* One of the Commeveltie.  Plebeian. In those times flourished the most renowned Captains of war in that City, such as were, Marcus Valerius Corvinus, Titus Manlius Torquatus, Caius Martius Rutilius, Publius Decius Must, Papirius Cursor, Publius Philo, Lucius Volumninus, and others.  
One of which, namely, Titus Manlius Torquatus, one of the Consuls, beheaded his own son, for that he (contrary to his command, and out of his rank) had encountered his enemy in a single combat, although he got the upperhand. Publius Decius Alus the other Consul, in the battle against the Latins, deuowed and bequeathed himself to death for the Romano Army: when violently rushing into the thickest troops of his enemies, by his death, reestablished the tottering state of Rome. His son, of his own name, four times Consul, performed the like against the Galli-Senones, forty four years after that. At the same  time, in the 
x Most Authors agree of 10. or 12. years before, viz. Anno Mundi, 3620. or 22.  420. year of Rome built, Alexander the great, founder of the third Monarchy, as we have above declared, flourished and made his wars. Titus Livius compares Lucius Papyrius Cursor with him, and extending his discourse as well for his own as his Readers recreation, shows that he was able to have resisted Alexander, if happily he had led his forces into Europe, after his conquest of Asia, and made war upon the Romans. This before-recited Papyrius Cursor, was endued with the very quintessence of valour: for, omitting other his valiant acts, when Titus Veturius Caluinus, and Spurius Posthumius Albinus the two Consuls, together with the whole army at the 
y Made of spears or javelinings stuck in the ground under which the conquered were to pass in dishonour.  Forks of Caudium, were compelled by the Lamnits, to go ignobly under the yoke, and had made a dishonourable peace with the enemy: He (being created Consul) vanquished the late conquering enemy, and put him to flight; as also when he was Dictator, made his own Master of the Cavalry an example to teach what strict observance ought to be had in military discipline. In this age also, and a little upwards, Greece brought forth men of transcendent learning; for than flourished Socrates, and from him, as from a certain fountain, Aristippus, Plato, Antisthenes, Speusippus, Aristotle, Di●aearchus, Xenocrates, Heraclides, Theophrastus, Polemo, and Strabo; all of them Physiologers, and as Cicero calls them, Speculators and hunters of Nature. Then also flourished most famous Orators, as Gorgias, Protagoras, Prodicus, Hippias, Isoerates, Lysias, Demostenes, Hyperides, Aeschines, Phalerius, Demetrius. And Historiographers chief, Xenophon, whom Cicero calls a Socratist, and Calisthenes, Alexander the great his companion.  
In this age lived Dionysius the Spracusan Tyrant, to whom when Plato came and spoke freely concerning the duty of a Prince, he put him in great danger of his life, as Cicero relates. This was he who committed not the guard of his body, to his allies, but to certain strangers, and savage and barbarous people: he who taught his daughters how to cut their hair, that they should not adventure their necks under the Barber's hands: who suffered them not to use any manner of edge-tool, after they were come to years, but made them cindge his head and beard with red-hot Walnut-shels: who resorted to his wives often times by night, but first made sure to survey and pry into all places: who not daring to show himself in the common Pulpits, was wont to speak to the people out of a Tower: who shown Damocles one of his Parrasites, what manner of felicity that of his was, which he had boasted of: for as he sat in the midst of his choicest delicates, with abundance and superfluity of all manner of pleasures; he caused a glittering sword, hanging by a bristle of a horses upper lip, to be let down, that it might hang over his neck.  
About forty two years after Alexander's death, Pyrrhus' King of the Epirotes came into Italy, and made war with the Romans. In his second years war, he solicited the Senate about concluding of a peace and a league. But Appius Claudius both old and blind, who, as Cicero writes, had been twice Consul before that, came into the Court; and dissuaded the Senate inclining to peace, from making any league with him; for, even in that case, wherein he then was, he had so much courage, as not to shrink from any either private or public service. The Oration which he then pronounced concerning Pyrrhus, when he broke off the peace, was extant in Cicero's days, as he himself witnesseth. At this time, cain's Fabritius Luscinus, performed a worthy piece of service for the Commonwealth, who being solicited by Pyrrhus, to revolt, contemned his most ample gifts, and large proffers: nor only so, but also sent him back again, a certain captived runaway, who had certified, that he could take away the King's life by poison. Cicero compares him with Aristides the Athenian. Mannius Curius Dentatus, gave Pyrrhus an utter overthrow, at his second invasion of Italy, and triumphed over him. This Pyrrhus was the first that ever brought Elephants into Lucania. And till this time, (being almost five hundred years continuance) the Romans were in wars with the inhabitants of Italy only, amongst whom the Latins, Veientes, Aequys, Faliscians', Samnites, Hetrucians', resisted very stoutly, sometimes conquered, sometimes conquering: who being at length subdued, and a peace settled; that most bloody war against the Carthaginians sprung up: the 
z josephus writes that it was built within 143 years after Solomon's Temple. The first Punic or Carthaginian war began Anno mandi 3697.  original of which City, is by evident testimony, proved to be fare more 
z josephus writes that it was built within 143 years after Solomon's Temple. The first Punic or Carthaginian war began Anno mandi 3697.  ancient than Rome. This war begun in the four hundred eighty fift year of Rome built: In which, that noble act, which hath report of performance by Marcus Attilius Regulus deserves singular commemoration, who, being taken prisoner by the Carthaginians, and sent by them to Rome, to treat of a peace and exchange of prisoners, with condition (except he prevailed) to return to his bondage: He, when he came thither, persuaded the Senate the quite contrary way, & shown that it was repugnant to the custom of the Commonwealth: but yet holding it a point of honour, to hold promise with his enemy, returned to Carthage, where he was put to death with the most cruel kind of punishment: his eyelids being cut away, and so bound fast in an engine, consumed to death by waking. This war proceeding, the Romans had their first and fortunate sea-fight in Sicily, against Hanno, Publius Duillius Consul: Cicero ranks this Duillius, Mannius Curius, and Caius Fabritius; as also Attilius Calatinus, Cneius and Publius, both Scipios, Aphricanus, Marcellus, and Fabius Maximus, within the list of the most renowned Consuls of Rome. The year following, Lucius Cornelius Scipio, Consul, took the Lands of Corsiea and Sardinia. The Carthaginian war, after it had lasted three and twenty years, 
Held 23. years.  was at last appeased, Quintus Luctatius, Catulus Cercus, and Aulus Manlius, Consuls. Two years before this, was Ennius borne. He was elder than Marcus Portius Cato, (who calls him his familiar consort) by five years. And Rome was now again entrapped with new wars against the 
a Of Tuscame.  Faliscians', 
b Of Tuscame upon the Sea-coast.  Lygurians, 
c Sclavonians.  Illyrians, 
d Of Gallia, now France.  Galls, 
e Bohemians.  Boys, 
f Of now Lombardy. The second war which the Carthaginians begun, Anno Mundi 3751.  Insubrians, whom having at length overcome, the second Punic or Carthaginian war burst forth, in the twenty fourth year after the conclusion of peace. Publius Cornelius Scipio, and Titus Sempronius Longus, than Consuls. Hannibal was Captain General in this war, who sacked the City of Saguntum, and bending his course through Spain towards Gallia, and from thence to Italy, in three several battles, at 
g Now Pavia.  Ticinum, the River Trebia, and the Lake Thrasimine, overcame the Romans. But Quintus Fabius Maximus being created Dictator, and marching forth against the enemy, by subtle and dilatory withdrawing from him, weakened and took off the edge of his force and fury. This was that very Fabius, whose fame Ennius celebrating, saith thus of him.  One man's delay, our safety hath regained. 
Cicero accounts him a great Politician, and says, that he could conceal, keep silence, dissemble, ensnare, and prevent his enemies in their consultations. But after this, the Romans received a very great overthrow at 
h A town of Apulia in Italy.  Canna, which struck such an horrid fear in the City, that many of the abler sort purposed to fly and forsake the City, but were reanimated and withdrawn from their intents, by Publius Cornelius Scipio Publius his son, a magnanimous young Gentleman, and then scarce four and twenty complete. The fourth year following, Claudius Marcellus took Syracuse after a long continuing siege. In the sacking of which City, the famous Mathematitian Archimedes' was slain: who was drawing certain Astronomical figures in dust, not dreaming of the conquest of his country. Marcellus having notice hereof, took his death wonderful heavily, and commanded his body to be buried: not only suffering the conquered City to remain in safety, as Cicero writes, but also left it so furnished, that it should stand for a Monument of victory, humanity, and clemency. Moreover, as he speaks upon Verres, the 
i Much like our Lord chief justices at this day.  Praetor's arrival there; in this victory of Marcellus, there were fewer men, than gods slain: but Livy reports, that many abominable examples of wrath, envy, and avarice, were then and there showed. Cicero when he was 
k Much like our office of Lord Treasurer.  Questor of Sicilia having by some description found out the place of Archimedes burial, shown his tomb to the Senate of Syracuse, 137 y. afterwards, though it was quite worn out of memory, grown over with briars and brambles, and unknown to the very Citizens themselves. He further reports that this City of Syracuse, was the greatest & most beautiful city in Greece, and that it was compact of four very great Cities: the Island, where was the fountain of Arethusa, having great store of fish: Acradania where the market place 
* Porticus. The public walking place for pleasure, recreation or exercise.  Prado, and 
* Curia.  Senatehouse stood: Tyche, where the Temple of Fortune stood: Neapolis built last of all, where the most spacious Theatre was erected. Moreover, this, of any foreign Nation, was the first, that entered into amity and allegiance with the Romans, and was their first province, as the same Cicero testifies: Annibal, soon after his victory, compelled all Campania to be yielded up to him: but his Army wintering at Capua with superfluity of victuals and riot, became wholly disjointed and broken. The third year after the overthrow of Syracuse, Capua was surrendered into the hands of the Romans: and it was long and much demurred upon, whether or no, they should quite destroy the City: at length they agreed to preserve it, yet lest it should at any time afterwards, be able to raise any rebellion, their fields were quite taken away, all manner of authority both of Magistrates and Senators abrogated, as also the Council of Estate, no image of a Commonwealth left, but was appointed to be a storehouse for fruit, the ploughmen's rendezvous, the Countreymens' market town, and the common Garner and Cornhouse for the country of Campania. Within two years after this, Asdrubal brought over new Auxiliary Forces into Italy: but was slain at the river of Metaurum by Marcus Livius Salinator, & Caius Claudius Nero Consuls. In the mean while Publius Cornesius Scipio had good success in Spain, after his father & his uncle had lost their lives there. He having recovered the whole province, returns to Rome, and being made Consul, desired to be authorized over Africa, that he might make war there. But Quintus Fabius Maximus, an aged grave Senator withstood him very earnestly: and urged that it was not fit to pass into Africa, but to join battle with Hannibal. Scipio contrariwise, that if war were made with the Carthaginians within their own Quarters, they must of necessity, be constrained to call home Hannibal out of Italy, in whom they settled their chief hopes and helps. After much dispute the Senate grants Scipio the Province of Sicily, and permits him, if it might be commodious to the Commonwealth, to pass over into Africa. He therefore at length sets forward out of Sicily into Africa: where, what he had foretold the Senate by word, he confirmed by deed. For the carthaginians having received some overthrows by him, and being much endamaged, call back Hannibal. Thus he who for sixteen years together, had raged up and down Italy, and picked out a place under the very walls of Rome, where to pitch his Tents, was compelled to return home, though sore against his will and to his great grief: where at length in his own country quarrel, 
Hannibal vanquished An. mund. 3797.  he was vanquished by Scipio, who soon after, by decree of the Senate, concluded a peace with the Enemy. Hereupon came his surname of Africanus.  
But here we must consider, after what manner the Romans creptout of these most intricate straits, for all their fortune now hung by a most slender thread; yet so it was destined, that they should oversway all force and trouble, and become Lords of the whole earth. Some report that Hannibal foresaw this, when he heard of his brother Hasdrubals overthrow. The words which he then used, Horace sets them down, in that Ode, 
Horace l. 4. Ode 4.  wherein he celebrates the fame of Drusus and his house; which being most learned & elegant, worthily, amongst other matters, deserves commemoration by all of the younger sort. Thus the Romans being at peace with the Carthaginians: besides those wars wherein they were employed, in Italy, Istria, and Lusitania: 
The Roman war with Philip King of Macedonia, 3770.  made sharp war against Philip King of Macedonia, who infested the Country of Greece. In this war Titus Quintus Flaminius was General, who at length, getting the upper hand of the Enemy, did by decree of the Senate restore Greece, to its former liberty: and amongst other injunctions prohibited King Philip from making war in any place, out of his own Territories, without decree of the Senate. 
The Roman wars with Antiochus King of Syria, 3777.  To this war another succeeded, against Antiochus' King of Syria, who passing over into Europe, was overthrown and expelled Greece, by Mannius Glabrio, Philip King of Macedon aiding the Romans in that war. Those before recited Kings of Asia, Syria, and Macedonia, descended from their posterity, who, as we have above related, divided the provinces amongst them after Alexander the Great his death. For Carthage being pacified, and all Italy brought under subjection; the Romans having subdued their neighbouring Countries of Europe both by sea and land, were now grown to that height, that Kings and people fare remote implored their patronage.  
After this manner the Egyptians (whose King Ptolemy Epiphanes was, a very young Prince, and not of ability by reason of his nonage to govern them) being brought into imminent danger by Antiochus the Great, sent over their Ambassadors to Rome, petitioning the Senate to undertake the tuition of their young King. Hereupon the Senate enjoined Antiochus to forbear Egypt: He hereat incensed, but more especially when Hannibal who was fled to him and remained his guest very earnestly persuaded him to the war: struck over with a Navy into Greece, and there, as we reported before, was put to flight. Whereupon the Romans setting forth with an Armado, pursue him, and striking over into Asia, overthrew in a main battle, and beat him back beyond the Mountain Taurus. Cicero relates, how after this overthrow he was wont to say, that the Romans had done him a very good turn, for now (being freed from too exceeding great government) he would contain himself within the moderate bounds of a Kingdom. Lucius Cornelius Scipio, Publius Scipio Africanus his brother, was Captain General in this war, thereupon surnamed Asiaticus.  
After this, Marcus Fuluius Nobilior, vanquished the 
l A certain people of Greece.  Aetolians, and triumphed over them. And Publius Scipio Africanus, after his return home out of Asia, (whither he was sent in Ambassage to his brother in time of this war) being crossed by the 
m Officers appointed for protection of the Commons against the Nobles.  Tribunes of the Commons: withdrew himself into his village of Liternum, and there, this man of transcendent worth, ended his life: being, as many writ, 52. years old, of the same age with Marcus Portius Cato. In that Dialogue, 
Sleidan (as Meibomius notes) mistakes Africanus, for Quintus Fabius Cunctator whom Cicero speaks of.  which Cicero writ of old age, he brings in Cato speaking very affectionately and honourably both of his age and studies, but most especially extolling his magnanimity: howbeit Livy writes, that Cato was his enemy, and was wont much to disquiet himself with the odious envy, that he bore against him for his fortitude. Cicero commends him for his dexterous celerity in dispatch of business.  
At this time flourished those Poets, Ennius, Plautus, and Nevius.  
After Antiochur his overthrow, Hannibal fled to Prusias King of Bythinia: and (when the Romans desired to have him delivered into their hand) by a draught of poison finished his life. 
Hannibal poisoneth himself. An. 3786.   
To Antiochus, his son Antiochus Epiphanes succeeded, who likewise practised by treachery to have seized upon the Kingdom of Egypt, for that he was uncle to Ptolemy Philometer King of Egypt, who succeeded after his father's death; hereupon, professing himself to be the young King's Tutor, purposed to dispatch him, and so transfer the sway of government into his own hands, but his plot being discovered, the Romans (whom the Egyptians had again solicited for aid) sent over to him in Ambassage Caius Popilius Laenas, who coming to conference with Antiochus, commanded him in the name of the Romans to departed from Alexandria, which he then besieged: who desiring time to deliberate upon it; Laenas with a little rod drew a circle round about him in the place where he stood, and in flat terms charged him to give his answer what he would do, before he stirred out of that Ring. He, hereat dismayed, and not being ignorant of the puissance of the Romans, promised peace.  
Those passages are only for this purpose mentioned, that it may appear how the Romans, from these small beginnings gathered ground step by step, and climbed up to the highest branch of government. For now their puissance having outstripped the bounds of Italy, made an impression into several Quarters of the world: but a great part of their labour yet remained towards the keeping in together the ponderous burden of this their Empire, whose circuit contained the chiefest part of the whole world, as hereafter though briefly, I'll declare in order.  
Philip King of Macedon, he whom I formerly spoke of, taking it very heinously that the Romans had put him to such a strait: was aminded to renew the war; but being prevented by death, his son and successor Perseus, having been long before that incensed against the Romans, undertook this war as it were a part of his inheritage: but Lucius Aemilius Paulus, the second time Consul, 
Perseus K. of Macedonia, with his wife, mother & Children led in triumph at Rome, by Aemilius Paulus, 3802.  at length overthrew him in battle, took him, together with his wife, mother, and Children, and led them in triumph, for this cause surnamed Macedonicus: and from that time Macedonia became one of the Provinces of the Romans. The year next before this, died Ennius, aged 70. years, as Cicero hath it. Within a few years following, Publius' Cornelius Nasica, subdued Dalmatia, and not long after the third Punic or Carthaginian war begun. 
The third Punic or Carthiginian war, 3819.  For the Carthaginians being impatient of peace and ease, offer violence and hostility to the rest of their neighbours, but more especially to Massinissa King of Numidia, a confederate and friend of the Romans. The Romans being requested for their aid, decreed to make war in the 604. year of Rome built: but herein they differed in their opinions, whether it were better to raze the City, or preserve it safe: some were of opinion, that it should not be destroyed, for that, said they, Carthage being taken away, they should fall into civil wars and dissensions amongst themselves: but Marcus Portius Cato, urging the contrary, shown what danger might hang over the Commonwealth of Rome, by reason of that City, unless it were quite destroyed, and this his opinion carried it, he himself departing his life in the time of this deliberation, having attained to the eighty fift year of his age. Cicero ranks him amongst the ancient Orators, and places him next after Marcus Cornelius Cethegus, whom Ennius (as he reports) extolled. He also further relates, that there were a hundred and fifty of Cato's Orations extant, stuffed with excellent words and matter: and reprehends those of his time for their too much niceness, in not diligently perusing them. He compares him with Lysias the Athenian Writer.  
In this third Punic war, Publius Scipio Aemilianus, Publius Macedonicus his son, and Publius Scipio Aphricanus his nephew by adoption: was at length made Captain General. He, in the fourth year of his war, begun by others, after a sharp siege continuing for certain days, took the City of Carthage, sacked it, burned it, and laid it level with the ground, 
Carthage destroyed, 3822.  thereupon gaining his surname, likewise styled Aphricanus, as he was, that overthrew Hannibal, as aforesaid. And this was the period of this most puissant City, which by original was more ancient than Rome, and for worthiness of Captains, scarce inferior to it, having borne rule fare and wide. Cicero writes, that Publius Scipio after he had taken Carthage, restored to the Sicilians, those Ensigns & ornaments which the Carthaginians had taken from them some years before: as also to the Agrigentines, that famous brazen Bull, which is reported to be Phalaris the Tyrants, wherein he was wont, for punishment, to enclose men alive, and then to set it on fire. This Phalaris lost not his life by treachery, as many other Tyrants did, but the whole multitude of the Agrigentines fell upon him. Cicero calls Africa the tower of all Provinces. Much about this time, the Romans made war with the Achaians a certain people of Greece, for offering injury to their Ambassadors. Lucius Mummius Consul, was Captain General in this war, who getting the upperhand in battle, forced all Achaia to be yielded up to him, and by decree of the Senate, set fire on Corinth the chief City, and utterly subverted it: lest at any time hereafter, being repaired, it might arise and lift up head again. Mummius hereupon was surnamed Achaicus. About this time also one Viriathus, (who from a Shepherd grew to be a Hunter, from a Hunter, to a Highway-thiefe, and afterward, leader of a strong Army) kept the Country of 
n Now Portugal in Spain.  Lusitania in possession; who for some certain years holding play with the Romans, and very oft putting them to the foil, was at length treacherously slain: and soon after, Decius' junius Brutus, subdued all Lusitania, even to the Ocean. In the mean time the Romans received a great overthrow from the Numantines a people of Spain: for, refusing to accept of the peace made by Mummius the Consul, in regard it was dishonourable, of a new create Publius Scipio Aemilianus Aphricanus, Consul, contrary to the ordinary course, and to him commit the charge of the war: who marching forth with an army, having recalled the soldiers, grown more effeminate and impatient of labour, to observance of strict military discipline, after he had besieged the city of Numantia some certain days, 
Numantia destroyed, 3832.  took and subverted it, in the fourteenth year after the subversion of Carthage, and of Rome built, six hundred and twenty. Cicero calls Carthage and Numantia, the two terrors of the Roman Empire.  
At this time there arose an uproar of the bondslaves in Sicily: who having gathered together great forces, were at length with much ado repressed by Caius Fuluius the Consul. After this, the Romans had war with Aristomius in Asia: for Attalus King of Pergamos, had by his testament made the Romans his heirs, but Aristomius being allied to him, seized upon that part of Asia, and defrauded the Romans of the benefit of his Testament. Him, Marcus Peperua, Consul, vanquished, and at length took prisoner. The year following, which was the 625. year of Rome built, 
Scipio Aphricanus murdered 3837.  Scipio Aphricanus lying at his own house, was in the nighttime murdered by his own kinsfolks, as it was supposed. Cicero makes relation of his most fluent eloquence, his fidelity and integrity: and writes, that albeit the whole City was plunged in depth of sorrow for his death, yet no man opened his mouth about the cause thereof. He reports also, that in this year, the sun was twice doubled. Thus this most renowned Commander ended his days, aged 56. years, which, as Cicero in a most sweet fictitious invention feigns, Aphricanus the elder had forewarned him of. In this age lived Lucilius, Terence, Pacwius, Accius, Licinius, Caecilius, Afranius. Caius Laelius, one most intimate with Aphricanus, calls this Pacwius his friend, but Terence his familiar consort. After this, Fabius Maximus Consul, in a main battle, overthrew the 
n Of Savoy.  Allobroges, 
o About the River L●ire.  Aruerni, and 
p About Rhodes.  Ruteni, people of Gallia. At the same time, Caius Gracebus, Tribune of the soldiers, an eloquent man, and defender of the Agrarian law, was slain at Rome, his brother Tiberius Gracchus having twelve years before lost his life for the like cause. Cicero gives both of them commendations for their eloquence: and writes, that Tiberius his Orations were not very beautifully set forth in words, but were acute and full of wisdom: and Caius his brothers, were fittest to be perused by those of the younger sort, as serving not only to whet on, but also to nourish the wit, and he styles him the most witty and most eloquent of all the Romans. Gracchus dreamt that he heard his brother Tiberius telling him that he should die of the same death whereof he did: and as Cicero reports, he told it to many before he was created Tribune of the Commons. Their laws are extant, about provision of corn, replantation of Colonies, 
The war with Jugurth King of Numidia begunne●● Anno Mundi, 3857.  soldiers rewards for their service, government of the Province, the peopls suffrages about election of Magistrates, and of letting to farm King Attalus his lands, and the country of Asia. After these Tribunician dissensions followed that war, which the Romans had with jugurtha King of Numidia. It was begun by Lucius Calphurnius Bestia, Consul; continued by Quintus Coecilius Metellus: 
Ended, 3859.  and ended by Caius Marius the Consul, who served in the wars with Publius Scipio: For Bacchus' King of Mauritania, Iugurtha's confederate, not willing any longer to undergo the hazard of war, delivered up jugurtha bound, into Sylla's hands, who was sent over to him for that purpose by Marius. And at this very time, which was in the six hundred forty seventh year of Rome built, was Marcus Tullius Cicero borne, 
Cicero borne 38.  being eight years after the birth of that most famous Orator Quintus Hortensius. In the time of this jugurthine war, the 
q Danes.  Cimbrians and 
r Germans vanquished by Caius Marius, 3867.  Teutons, pierce some into Italy, some into Gallia; where having very much annoyed the Romans, and in certain battles, sometimes overcoming the Proconsul's, sometimes their Lieutenants, were at length overthrown and put to the sword by Caius Marius, the fourth time Consul: the Teutons at 
s Aix.  Aquensis, and the Cimbrians on the marches of 
t Lombardie  Insubria.  
To this felicity succeeded a new tumult: for certain people of Italy, as the Samnites, Pelignians, Marsians, 
The Sociall war, 3877.  Vestinians, Marusinians, Vmbrians, Picentines, Lucanians, revolted from the Romans. At diverse battles, at length they were reduced to subjection. In the neck of this, follows another mischief, and a dangerous one to the Commonwealth: 
The war with Mithridates, 3880.  for Mithridates, King of Pontus, expelied Ariobarzanes King of Cappadocia, and Nichomedes King of Bythinia, (both friends and confederates with the Romans) out of their dominions: and seizing upon Phrygia a Province of the Romans, broke into Asia. Hereupon the Senate decreed to remedy it by the sword: but just in the nick, sprung up a faction, some requiring Lucius Sylla a man of Noble parentage, others Caius Marius for their General. Publius Sulpitius Tribune of the commons, aided Marius his party, but Sylla having command over the army, expelled Marius the City; who thus exiled, and lurking in the marshes about Minturnae, not without very imminent danger of his life, in a little Bark, struck over into Africa. In Sylla's absence, in the wars of Asia, Lucius Cornelius Cinna, Consul, begun to raise an uproar, and practise new seditions: who, after he was banished by his colleague, Cneius Octavius, and expelled the City, makes fresh head again, and joins with Caius Marius, who upon that occasion was returned from Africa. 
Cinna and Marius besiege and take Rome, 3882.  Thus having contracted their forces, they jointly besiege the City of Rome, on that side where the village of janiculum stood: when many of the City, showing themselves not so much cowards, as perfidious wretches (no means for resistance being left) giving them entrance, they made all places flow with blood and destruction, and forthwith reproclaiming themselues Consuls, in that their office, exercise much cruelty: among the rest Lucius Cinna committed that famous orator Marcus Antonius to the sword, and Caius Marius, did the like for Quintus Catulus. Lucius Sylla hearing of those hurly-burlies, having in a manner recovered all that he warred for, concluding a peace with Mithridates returns into Italy, but Marius, seventh time Consul, died before his arrival. Lucius Cinna had for his Colleague Cneius Papirius Carbo on their party: who although they opposed Sylla with might and main, were, together with Marius his son put to flight: and Sylla being now sole Commander, pursued his adversaries very sharply, hung out a writ of proscription, sells the proscripts goods, and disenabled their children of all privilege and right of bearing honours in the Commonwealth: and then making himself Dictator, carried all matters according to his own will, and infringed the Tribunes authority: and when he sold the Citizen's goods, declared in the public assemblies, that he sold nothing but his own prey. Briefly, it came to that pass, that no man without his consent, could hold either goods, country or life: and with such bitter hatred was he incensed against Caius Marius, that he caused the relics of his body to be scattered and strewed up and down the river 
u Teveron.  Anio: and he himself was the first of any Nobleman of the house of the Cornelio's, that desired to be burnt by fire: it may be fearing lest the same accident should befall his own dead body. Cicero relates that Marius was strong and valiant, and constant in his wrath: but he taxes Sylla of vehemency, and Lucius Cinna of cruelty. He further styles Marius the terror of his Enemies, and the hope and help of his Country. Lucius Sylla made four new laws, against forgery, parricide, murder and injuries. In the time of his Dictatorship, Marcus Cicero aged 26 years, came into the Court, and pleaded Sextus Rossius his cause in public. Before him, these Orators were most famous, Quintus Catulus, Caius julius, Marcus Antonius, Lucius Crassus. In which age, saith Cicero, the Latin tongue was grown to full perfection in a manner. This age indeed, wherein Cicero lived, did most of all excel in learning. For to let pass so many and so worthy Orators, there were famous Lawyers, and amongst the rest Caius Aquilius Gallus, Lucius Lucilius Balbus, Caius juventius Sextus Papirius, who were Quintus Mutius Scaevola the 
* Chief Priest about the sacrifices.  Pontifies Auditors, to whom Cicero also in his youth, was a retainer. Publius Servius Sulpitius was well near Cicero's equal, he was Auditor of the above named men: and Aulus Ossilius, Publius Alphenus Varus, Caius Titus Decius, the two Aufidioes, Caius Atteius Pacuvius, Flavius Priscus, Cinna, and Publius Caecilius were his scholars. At the same time, with Sulpitius, flourished Caius Trebatius whose scholar Antisteus Labeo was. Cicero extolling the deceased Sulpitius in most ample words, saith, That if all who ever in any age professed the law in this City, were gathered together into one place, they were not to be compared with Servius Sulpitius; for he was experienct in point of equity, as well as strict law.  
Amongst those who were proscribed Quintus Sertorius was one, a man renowned both for his courageous valour and experience in military affairs. He begun a most fierce war in the further parts of Spain, 
Sertorius his war, 3890.  where overthrowing certain Roman Generals, brought many Cities into subjection. Hereupon the guidance of this war, was at length committed to Cneius Pompeius: when after many battles, with diversity of fortune on both sides, at length Sertorius was treacherously slain; and afterwards Pompey, being almost the tenth year after the beginning of the war, recovered Spain. About this time Nichomedes King of Bythinia, departing this life, made the Romans his heirs: But Mithridates' King of Pontus, who formerly in that faction betwixt Marius and Sylla had struck a league with Sertorius, seizing upon Bythinia, with main forces renews the war. Against him Lucius Lucullus was sent with an Army, who when he was Confull, had good success in his battles of horsemen; and afterwards being Proconful, defeating his forces, and recovering Bythinia, caused him to retire into Pontus: and there to Mithridates receiving an overthrow in a main battle, fled to Tigranes' King of Armenia: yet Lucullus still following and pursuing him, in some few battles defeated both their forces: but the mutinous dissensions among the soldiers, by some craftily raised, hindered him from fully finishing the war, and bringing home the wished success and honour of his victory. For within a while after Lucullus being called home, Cneius Pompey was made Captain General in that war: to which service Marcus Cicero also was a motioner, having made a very elegant Oration to the people in Pompey's commendation. Lucullus thus recalled, held his triumph nevertheless, and bestowed a very sumptuous banquet upon the Romans: soon after this, leaving his Offices in the Common wealth, he lived at home privately studiing Philosophy, and erected a most copiously furnished Library. In his ordinary table, he was (as at all times else) very sumptuous and magnificent. Cicero makes mention of this Library, and says, that he was wont to come thither to cull forth books: Pompey put Mithridates to flight, and pursued him very fare. He caused King Tigranes to yield himself over into his hands, and seeing him abased and forlorn in his camp, advanced him, as Cicero writeth, and placing the 
* Insigne regium.  Diadem upon his head again which he had taken from him, under certain cautions commanded him to reign again. At length Mithridates being besieged by his own son Pharnaces, slew himself. That war which Pompey made against the Pirates (which was before he went against Mithridates) won him much authority.  
This war thus appeased, presently another civil broil is broached: for Lucius Catilina with many more, conspired the ruin of the Common wealth, but by Cicero's singular industry, (who was then Consul) his villainy was discovered, he expelled the City, and having gathered together certain bands and troops of abject fellows in Hetruria, was in battle by Caius Antonius Consul Cicero's Colleague overthrown and slain. Cicero every where amongst his works, speaks much of the service which he then performed for the Common wealth, and makes relation not only of the firebrands then seen in the night time, the flaming of the elements, lightnings and earthquakes: but also applies those wondrous prodigies, which happened when Lucius Cotta and Torquatus were Consuls, (being two years before his Consulship) to this time: when many Turrets in the Capitol were struck down, the Images of the gods overthrown, the statues of the ancient Heroes beat down, the brazen tables of the Law melted, as also the statue of Rome's builder, Romulus in form of an Infant, gaping and sucking at the teats of a wolf, was smitten. Cicero describing Catiline's nature and qualities, says, that there never was such another Monster as he upon the face of the Earth, composed of such contrary different and mutually antipathizing appetites and dispositions of nature.  
In the time of Cicero's Consulship was Caius Octavius borne, 
Caius Octavius borne. 3906.  and judaea made Tributary to the Romans, after Cnelius Pompey had surprised the City of jerusalem. The fift year following, Lucius Piso and Aulus Gabinius Consuls, the 
x Now called Swissers.  Heluetians changed their habitation, and levying main forces intended to pass thorough the Province of Gallia into the further parts thereof, and there to seat themselves in regard of the fertility of the soil. But Caius julius Caesar who was six years younger than Cicero having notice hereof preparing an Army (the Senate having authorised him over that Province) marched thither and in pitched battle vanquished the Enemy, and afterwards going out against Arionistus King of the Germans, who had annoyed the Country of Gallia 
y That part of France betwixt the River of Seine & Garonne.  Celtica, but more especially the 
z Now Walloons.  Heduies' confederates with the Romans, overthrew him at Besanson, a Town of the 
a burgundians inhabiting about the river Seine.  Sequans, not fare from the Rhyne. Soon after he brought the whole Country of Gallia in subjection to the Romans, and forthwith striking over the sea into Britain, conquered it.  
Cicero reports that Caesar writ to him out of Britain on the first day of September, and the Letters came to his hands the eight & twentieth day of the same month. When Caesar went into Gallia, Cicero being molested by Publius Clodius Tribune of the Commons departed into exile, first making an oration to the Gentry and Commons, wherein he commended his children and family to their care: and within a few months after being called back by the Senate, (with exceeding great congratulation of the prople) made another Oration to the Romans, wherein he rendered thanks to his friends. Afterwards, he laid the blame on Lucius Piso, and Aulus Gabinius Consuls, for his banishment, and shown that by them he was betrayed, declaiming certain Orations against each of them, in one whereof, he counselled the Senate to take from them the Provinces of Syria and Macedonia, and not to call back Caius Caesar, having most happy success in his wares in Gallia, but to continue his authority, whereby he might fully finish the war. Mean while Ptolemy Auletes King of Egypt (for his slothfulness and cruelty thrust out of his kingdom) came to Rome, and the Senate, at Cneius Pompey's entreaty, restored him by Aulus Gabinius, expelling Archelaus whom the people had ordained to be their king. At length Gabinus was adjudged to pay into the common treasury 10000 Talents, or as some of our times suppose 6000000. 
Every Talon amounteth to 176 pound sterling.  because he had received so much from Ptolemy. And Marcus Crassus, (who had in charge the managing of the Parthian war) having passed over the River of Euphrates, was overthrown, and soon after slain at an interview upon Truce. This was he, who was wont to say, that no man was rich, except he could maintain an 
a An Army consisted of 2400 foot, and 20000 horse.  Army at his own charge. About this time was Publius Clodius slain by Titus Anaio Milo; Cicero defended Milo (Cneius Pompey being then the third time and alone Consul) yet at length he was commanded to go into exile.  
The wars with the Galls being ended, which was about the eight year thereof, that civil war of Caius Caesar's, 
The civil war betwixt Caesar and Pompey begun 3916.  with his son in law Pompey, burst forth. The occasion whereof was, because Caesar was to be deprived of his Consulship, except he would first dismiss his forces, and surrender his Province, but he was advised that it could no ways stand with his safety, to part from his Army: yet he condescended descended upon condition, that Pompey as well as he, should yield up his forces: but when that was refused, marching out with his forces with incredible celerity, he left Gallia and came into Italy, where entering into the Country of Flaminia, he took many towns some by force, 
b Now Romandi●la.  o● hersome by dedition. Upon notice hereof, Pompey and the two Consuls Caius Marcellus, and Lucius Lentulus fly from Rome to Brundisium, a Sea coast Town in 
c Puell.  Apulia: thither marched Caesar, but before his arrival, the Consuls had struck over the Seas to Durachium: 
d Durace in Macedonia.  and not long after Pompey follows them. Now Caesar being prevented by time, not having a Navy in readiness could not pursue them, but returns to Rome, where calling together the Senate, he makes complaint of his injuries, and also propounded certain conditions of peace: but being slighted off by the Senate, he marches to 
e Marsiles in France.  Massilia, where the gates were shut against him: hereupon rigging his Navy, he besieges it both by sea and land, and there leaving his Deputies, sets forward into Spain, where at length he compels Petreius and Africanius two of Pompey's Captains, together with the whole Army, to yield. Then he returns to Massilia, which City despairing of all aid, presently yields to his power: and after he was made Dictator in his absence by Marcus Lepidus the Praetor, repairs to Rome, calls an assembly, and is created Consul together with Publius Servilius Isauricus: soon after having settled the affairs of the City, he strikes over into Greece, and at length overthrew Pompey in Thessaly in a main battle, 
Pompey overthrown 3921.  and disbanded him, though his Army fare exceeded Caesar's. Pompey thus put to flight, arrives in Egypt, Ptolemy Dionysius, Ptolemy Auletes son, being then King thereof: which Auletes, (when he was expelled his Kingdom) Pompey had restored by Aulus Gabinius, as aforesaid. In regard of which benefit, he expected aid and protection from that Country: but the King being a child, his Nobles (either despising Pompey's fortune, or else fearing some troubles) treacherously kill him. 
And slain.  Caesar pursuing Pompey, arrives at Alexandria with 3200 men, and there first of all had notice of Pompey's death. Cicero passing his censure upon both of them, If in the last war, saith he, Pompey had abated somewhat from his austere gravity, and and Caesar much from his ambition, we should have had both a firm peace, and some Common wealth left us.  
The King of Egypt was then in wars with his sister Cleopatra. Hereupon Caesar being at Alexandria, would have their controversies rather decided by course of law before himself, then by civil wars amongst themselves: because he was Consul of Rome, and some years before there was a confederacy agreed upon with Ptolemy the King's father by decree and consent of the Senate. But the States took this most heinously complaining that their Kings Royal Majesty was eclipsed, in calling him to sit in judgement upon their controversies. Thus incensed in mind they prepare to make war against Caesar, but he after much danger getting the upper hand, did not reduce it into the form of a Province: but tolerated Cleopatra, and her younger brother (the King being slain) to hold the Kingdom. From thence marching into Syria, and afterwards into Pontus, he put to flight King Pharnaces, Mithridates his son, and settled peace in Cappadocia, Armenia, Gallo-Greece, Pontus, and Bythinia. Forthwith returning into I talie, and so to Rome about the middle of Winter, at the Winter 
* Solstitium.  Sun-sted, he strikes over from 
f A town and promontory in Sicily.  Lilybeum, into Africa, though warned by a chief Soothsayer, not to take his voyage before the end of Winter. Scipio and Cato, Marcus Portius Cato's Nephew's sons were fled thither from the battle at 
g Where Pompey was overthrown.  Pharsalia, and having gathered together a great Army, drew King 
h King of ●●a●●it●nia  juba, into confederacy with them. Cesar marching thither, overthrew and destroyed them all; but Cato, (lest he should fall into his hands) killed himself at 
i Now called Biserta in Barbary.  Utica; which fact Cicero defends and saith, that it was better for him (whom nature had endued with incredible gravity) so to do, then to behold the face of a Tyrant. This Cato was of the sect of the Stoics, and would oftentimes maintain strange opinions in the Senate, as though he were versed in Plato's politickes, as Cicero saith, and not in the refuse offspring of Romulus. Afterward Cesar repairs to Rome, and having triumphed over Gallia, Egypt, Pontus, and Africa, set forward to Spain, where he warred against, and subdued Sextus Pompeius. Thus having vanquished all his adversaries, and settled a peace in many Nations fare and wide: in the fift year after the beginning of his civil wars, 
The fourth Monarchy begun by Caius Cesar, An. 3925. being 300. years and odd after Alexander the Great.  he returns to Rome, where after he had triumphed over Hispaine, he assumed the offered title and authority of perpetual Dictator, and swayed the Senate according to his own will: he, in a manner having the sole bestowing of all honours, and public offices, conferring them upon whom he pleased, thereby incurring many men's ill-will.  
And now the state of the Commonwealth being altered, and the supreme government thereof reduced to one man's principality, those conspiracies then in brewing against him, were at length, broached: For, in the fift month after his return to Rome, 
Caius Cesar slain.  he was slain in Pompey's 
* Curia.  Court-house, on the Ideses of March, and by those very men, whom by his late showed kindness, he had obliged to him, as also pardoned them for serving against him in the Pompeian war. Those were Marcus, and Decius' Brutus, Caius Cassius, Cneius, Domitius, Caius Trebonius, Quintus Tullius Cimber, two of the Sernilioes, Casea, Hala, and many more. Marcus Antonius the Consul, Caesar's Colleague, indicted Cicero also before the Senate, as guilty of the murder: for that Marcus Brutus presently after Cesar was slain, (holding up his dagger on high) shouted aloud, and nominated him, congratulating him for recovery of their liberty.  
Many report that Caius Cesar spoke to Marcus Brutus in Greek, as he rushed upon him, and called him son, how they take it, I know not; but it is evident out of Cicero, that Brutus was fifteen years younger than he.  
Caius Cesar made diverse laws, some whereof when he was Consul, and other some when he was Dictator, which after his name were called the julian laws: as, about distribution of lands, concerning violence, Majesty, extortion, Priest-ships, usury. Others laws there were, which go under his name, but were made by Octavius. All commend him for his clemency, and Cicero gives him praise for his wit, quickness, reason, memory, learning, providence, diligence: but he stormed grievously at his authority, yet secretly and in an Epistle to Atticus, Thou shalt perceive, saith he, that this kingdom can scarce hold half a year together. But in all those proceed, Cicero carried himself very wavering and inconstantly: for during the war, he followed Pompey's party, and his camp, although he reprehended his discouragement of mind and cowardice, and in his Epistles to his friends, he calls Cesar a war-waging Tyrant and monster. But after Pompey was put to flight, and slain, and Cesar had pardoned many of his adversaries, he changes his style, and in three set Orations extolled him with praises to the very heavens. Further, when Cesar heard that there was treason plotted against him, and would often say, that he had lived long enough; he beseeches and requests him to reject that opinion: for although he was full fraught with glory, and in that regard, for himself, had lived long enough, yet he had not lived long enough for the Commonwealth, which could not be without his aid and protection: as concerning any danger, he need not trouble himself. For all of us, saith he, do not only promise to watch about and guard Thee, but also to interpose our own sides and bodies. But for all this, after Caesar's death, he rejoiced wonderfully, and boasted, that they who had slain him, had obtained that glory, which could scarce be contained within the heavens.  
This therefore is the fourth and last Monarchy: in which place we must note, how this city which was built by Shepherds: from most slender beginnings, by little and little increased to the height of potency, and grew to be Empress of the whole world. Now hereafter, I will briefly, as fare as I may, declare, after what manner it fell off by degrees from this most high estate, unto ruin.  
The end of the first Book.   

JOHN SLEID AN of the four chief Monarchies. OR, The key of History.  
The second Book.  
CEsar being slain, 
Octavius Cesar begun his raigue, Anno mundi, 3925. and reigned An. 57  his sister's son Caius Octavius (having drawn about the military bands to his party) persecuted the murderers most bitterly. And at first, seemed to take arms in defence of the Commonwealth against Marcus Antonius: but afterward diuding the Empire with him, and Marcus Ledipus ordained a 
i Government by three. Cicero put to death, An. 3926.  Triumuirat, in which Marcus Cicero was by Marcus Antonius (whom he had very vehemently opposed) put to death, being sixty three years of age, which was eight years after Quintus Hortensius his death, who was so many years elder than he, as abovesaid. Cicero directly overshot himself in his own policies: for when Marcus Antonius molested the Commonwealth, after Caius Caesar's death, he with exceeding great praises commended to the Senate, Caius Octavius, Caesar's kinsman, a young Gentleman of twenty years of age, and begun to urge to have him created Consul, without any regard had to his age, producing examples of ancient times, how it might be done, and refuting such objections as might seem dangerous: professing to be bound to the Senate upon his honour, that he should always covernue such a Commonwealth's man, as he then was, and such an one, as they ought chief, to wish and desire him to be: but afterwards, forsaken by him, he fell into Marcus Antonius his hands. Marcus Brutus reprehends him sharply for such his flattery.  
Then as it is common, certain grudges arising in emulation of the Empire, when as Marens Lepidus for conspiracy against Octavius, was formerly removed out of the Triumuirat, and banished: Octavius made war against Antonius his other Colleague: and after his victory at 
k A town in Epirus.  Actium, overthrew both him and Cleopatra beforementioned, at Alexandria, forcing them both to kill themselves, and made Egypt a Roman Province. Author's report, that in Ptolemy, Auletes reign the yearly revenues of Egypt, came to 12500. talents, which sum the learned of our times reckon to 7500000. crowns: but when it came in subjection to the Romans, they judged it to be fare more rich, in regard of the traffic with India and Aethiopia. Antonius thus overthrown and cut off, Octavius alone governed the Commonwealth forty four years, and in 29. year of his Empire, and of the world, 3954. 
Christ born An. mundi, 3954.  as most account, was our Saviour JESUS CHRIST borne. Herod, surnamed the Great, having seven years before, most sumptuously re-edified the demolished Temple of jerusalem.  
Marcus Antonius was married to Caius Octavius his sister, but afterward (being entangled with Cleopatra's love) forsook his wife, and married her, which partly was cause of the war. Both of them were exceeding riotous, and Authors relate almost incredible stories of their banquets, delights, and pleasures: but such as I before set down, was the upshot and end of their lives: This Marcus Antonius, was that most famous Orator , Marcus Antonius his Nephew.  
In Caius Octavius his reign, the Romans had their first war in Germany, within their own territories. Caius julius Cesar indeed overthrew the Germans twice, but it was in Gallia, to wit, Ariovistus in the Country of the Celts, and afterwards at the meeting together of the River Maze, and the Rhyne. After this victory, he built a bridge, and past over the Rhyne, but resting there a few days, brought back his Army into Gallia, and broke down the bridge. Two years after, he passed again over the Rhyne on his second bridge, a little above that place where he formerly had led over his Army, and then fully intended to have gone against the 
l Now of Pomerania in Germany.  Suevians, but being certified by his Scouts of all affairs, and fearing much difficulty and scarcity of provision, returns into Gallia, breaks down some part of the bridge, and in the other part, built a Tower and a Castle, and fortified it with Citadels, that he might not altogether free his enemies from the fear of his return. And this was all that Cesar did against the Germans, as he himself writes. But Octavius by the two brothers, Tiberius and Drusus, made war against the 
m Germans bordering on the Alps.  Rhaetians and 
n Vandals.  Vindelicians, and with 
o People about Colen.  Vbian forces, (who were confederates with the Romans) Quintilius Varus being their Captain General, invaded that part of Germany, now called Westphalia: howbeit Arminius Chieftain of the 
p Germans near the river Elbe.  Cheruscans, almost utterly overthrew him, betwixt the River 
q Ems.  Amasia, and 
r Necchar. Horat. lib. 1 Ode 24.  Lupia. Horaee in a most elegant Ode, comforts Virgil, lamenting his death. Drusus died in Germany, leaving behind him two sons, Germanicus a most worthy soldier, and Claudius. Horace in another most elegant Ode, as we said before, 
Horat. lib. 4 Ode 4.  extols him, and derives his pedigree from Caius Claudius Nero, who when he was the second time Consul, together with Marcus Livius Saelinator, slew Asdrubal, Annibals' brother, at the River of Metanrum, as he was bringing over a supply of forces. 
s Octavius so styled, in honour, as much as Sovereign at this day.  Augustus also subdued the 
t Of Biscay in Spain.  Cantabrians, 
u Of Aquitane in Gallia.  Aquitanians, 
* Hungars.  Pannonians, 
x Inhabiting Wendenland in some parts.  Dalmatians, 
y Of Sclavonia also or Wendenlond.  Illyrians, 
z Inhabiting near Lombardie.  Salassians, and inhabitants of the Alps. It is reported, that he often intended, to lay off the weighty charge of the Empire: but again considering with himself that it would be rashly committed to many men's authority, changes his mind. In the thirty third year of his reign, deceased Herod the Great: whom he, and Marcus Antonius in the third year of their triumvirate, had made King of judaea: and in the eight year after his death, his son and successor Archelaus was banished to Vienna a Town in Gallia. It is written, that Octavius maintained forty four legions of soldiers in protection of the Provinces of the Empire. In Egypt, there were three, as many in Hispaine, and eight in Germany. The yearly expense (as many in their computation reckon) amounts to 2100000. crowns, so as they may distribute amongst every legion, 272000. crowns yearly. A legion as they hold, consists of 6000. footmen, and 500 horsemen.  
Octavius is very much commended for his love and liberality towards men renowned for their learning. The most famous Poets which then flourished, were Varius, Virgil, Plotius, Valgius, Fusous, the two Viscoes, Pollio, Messala, the Bibulies', Servius, Furnius, and Horace, who desired that his works might have approbation from them, not regarding other men's censures of them. But the most famous wits of Reme, flourished in a certain continual order from Marcus Portius Cato, and Aphricanus the elder, until this time. For this age wherein Augustus lived, was in a manner the last that retained that genuine sense, and pure vigour of the Latin tongue; for afterwards by little and little, it grew more and more corrupt, till it degenerated into mere barbarism, which continued even till within our memory. The Poets borne at 
a City of Betica in Spain.  Corduba, used as Tully saith, a kind of gross and uncouth garb: but what think we, would he have judged of them, who lived after him above a hundred years, not only those who were borne and brought up at Corduba, but those of Rome also.  
Now Tiberius Augustus his wife's son, 
Tiberius' An. Dom. 16. an. 23. m. ● d. 26.  as also his son in law, and by adoption, did (but utterly against his will, at leastwise he pretended so, being with much ado at last persuaded to it by the Senate's entreaty) take upon him the Empire, and at his first entrance, undertook nothing of himself alone, but communicated with the Senate in all matters of importance: notwithstanding within a little while after quite neglecting the affairs of the commonwealth wholly gave over himself to his pleasures. In his reign the Parthians bereft him of A●menia, and the Dacians and Sarmatians of Moesia, the Germans foraged Gallia: but all those losses nothing at all moved him.  
Many writers, (and those, men of great esteem in point of Divinity) record that in the fifteenth year of his reign our Saviour JESUS CHRIST was crucified, 
Christ crucified, An. etatis 34. Luk. cap. 3.  but Saint Luke writes, that in that same year he was baptised by john Baptist.  
At that time flourished those Lawyers, Marcus Coccius Nerna, the father and son, and Cassius Longinus. Tiberius Nero who served in the war at Alexandria with Caius Caesar, was this Tiberius his Father. To him Caius Caesar Caligula succeeded, 
Caius Caligula, An. ●om. 38. an. 3. m. 8. d. 8.  the most wicked son and direct monster of Germanicus his most worthy father. It's recorded that Tiberius in those twenty three years which he reigned, had gathered together an infinite Mass of gold: which Caligula out of hand in the very first year consumed. About the second year of his reign Herod Antipa, Herod the Great his Son, he who beheaded john the Baptist, was sent in banishment to 
b Lions in France.  Lugdunum: to whom Herod Agrippa succeeded, who beheaded james the Apostle.  
After Caligula was slain, Claudius his uncle was brought in. 
Claudius, 42. an. 13. m. 8. d. 20.  He hearing that Britain had revolted, went thither, and after he had subdued part of the Island, returned home. In his reign happened that great general dearth, which Agabus foretold, 
Acts 11.  as the Evangelist Saint Luke mentions.  
Claudius' Nero, 
Nero 56. An. 13.  this Claudius his successor, openly signified, that at some time or other, he would quite abrogate the order of the Senators. In his reign Britain gave him a great overthrow, massacring the Roman Citizens and confederates there: the Legions also in Armenia were compelled to go reproachfully under the yoke: with much difficulty Syria was held in: Gallia revolted by the means of julius Vindex Governor of that province: as afterwards Spain, 
Galba 68 m. 7. d. 7.  Sergius Galba being their Leader. And whilst he was casting about how to recover those losses, 
Othom. 4. Vitellius m. 8.  and making ready his journey into Gallia, the rest of his forces which lay dispersed in other provinces, rebelled. Histories relate what a loathsome and outrageous Monster he was: and thereupon being condemned by the Senate, as an enemy to the Commonwealth, by the help of one of his servants, he killed himself. Besides Seneca these Poets then flourished, Lucan, Persius, and Silius Italicus: the last whereof was conful in the last year of Nero's reign. From that time the State of the Common wealth was brought to that pass, that the Creation of the Emperors lay within the power of the Armies and legions of the Romans. After this manner was Vespasian made Emperor. 
Vespasian 69. an 9 m. 11. d. 24.  For those bands which lay in Masia, Pannonia, judaea, and Syria revolted from Aul●s Vitellius, and swore fealty to Vespasian. He subdued Achaia, Lycia, Rhodes, Byzantium, Samos, Thracia, Cilicia, and Comagena, making them Roman Provinces, and utterly subverted jerusalem, 
Titus. 79. an. 2. m. 2. d. 20. Domitiaen 81. an. 15.  which war his son Titus managed. Flavius Domitian, made war against the 
d Now of the Lantzgrave of Hessens Country. Nerua 96, an. 1. m. 1. Trajane 97 an. 19 m. 6. d. 15.  Chatties, Dacians, and Sarmatians, and triumphed over them. Then lived those Poets, Statius, Iwenal, and Martial. Vlpius Trajane (adopted by Cocceus Nerua, and afterwards made Emperor) subdued the Dacians, twice rebelling, bringing them in subjection to the Romans, and planting Colonies there, marching with an Army against Armenia, and the Parthians, upon dedition and favour brought them into his party, thereupon gaining his surname of Parthicus, but almost all those Countries by him subdued at length rebelled, especially the Armenians and Mesopotamians, and the Parthians rejected the King whom he had assigned them, as soon as his back was turned homewards towards Italy. Aelius Adrianus subdued I●daea then rebelling: 
Adrianus 116. an. 19 m. 6. d. 15.  the occasion of this war, was because he had erected a Temple at jerusalem (which City he suffered to be inhabited again) to jupiter Olympius: which fact the jews took most heinously. He likewise visited the Gallia's, Germany, Britain, and the Hispaines, as afterwards Mauritania, the Parthians, Asia and Greece: & returning home through Sicily, from thence went again into Africa: and after his return to Rome, sets forward again into Greece, and from thence passed into Arabia, and afterward to Egypt.  
Assembling the Senate, 
Antoninus Pius, 151. an. 22. m. 7. d. 26.  he commended to them Antoninus Pius, who being made Emperor after him, maintained peace, endeavouring to obtain all men's good will, and by his letters and courteous demeanour, kept foreign Kings and people within their obedience. In his time flourished those Lawyers, Alburnius Valens, Tuscianus, Vindius, Verus, Vlpius, Marcellus, Arrianus, Tertullianus, Saluius, julianus, Lucius Volusius, Metianus.  
To Antonius Pius his son Marcus Antoninus surnamed the Philosopher, succeeded: 
Antoninus the Philosopher 160 an. 19 m. 0. d. 11.  He took his 
c Carien calls him his brotuer  kinsman Lucius Aurelius Verus to be his Associate in the Empire. By him he had happy success in his wars in Parthia, he himself looking to the affairs of the Commonwealth at home, and in the City: but soon after Verus dying he reigned alone, and overcame in his war against the Germaves, overthrowing also the 
f Now Moravians.  Marcomannes. Sarmatians, Vandals, and 
g Inhabitants in and about Silesia.  Quadies, who had invaded the 
h Upper & lower Hungaria.  Pannonia's. For at this time almost all the nations from Illyricum to Gallia, had conspired against the name of the Romans.  
Commodus Antoninus the most lewd son of this most laudable Prince, 
Commodus Anteninus 79. an. 12. m. 8. d. 15.  by his Leiutenants overthrew the 
i Of Mauritania or Morisco in Barbary. Pertinax. m. 3. Didius julianus m. 7. Septimius Severus 192. ca 17. m. 8. ●. 5.  Moors and Dacians, quieted the Pannoniaes', Germany and Brittany, which Countries cast off their subjection: He himself in the mean while, wallowing in all manner of filthiness and cruelty.  
Septimius Severus had ciu●ll wars with Niger and Albinus who procured Asia and Gallia to make a revolt: he had good success in his wars against the Parthians, vanquished the jews throughout Syria, subdued Abagatus King of the Persians, and compelled the Arabians to come to composition. He fortified Brittany, with a wall cross overtwart the Island, reaching to the Ocean on both sides: and having subdued those people that annoyed the Country died at York.  
His son Antoninus Bassianus Caracalla, 
Caracalla 210. an. 6. m. 2. d. 5.  made war against the Parthians and Armenians. This was he that commanded Pupinianus, 
* Prafectum praetorij, Governor of the praetorian Cohort.  Captain of the Guard, to be put to death, for refusing to defend his 
k For Caracalla slew his brother Geta.  fratricide. In his time flourished many Lawyers, and most of them Pupinianus his Auditors, as Tarruntius, Paternus Macer, Papirius Fronto, Anthius, Maximus, Hermogenianus, Africanus, Florentinus, Triphoninus, jushts, Callistratus, Venuleius Celsus.  
After Caracalla was slain, Macrinus succeeded, 
Macrinus 216. An. 1. m. 1. d. 28.  who, having bad success in his wars against Artabanus King of the Parthians, and perceiving the legions incline to Heliogabulus Bassianus his son, 
Heliogabulus 217. an. 3 m. 9 d. 4. Alexander Senerus 221. an. 13. m. 0. d. 9  concluded a peace.  
Alexander Severus a stout soldier, successor to Heliogabulus that most brutish of men: overthrew Artaxerxes King of the Persians in main battle: and recovered Mesopotamia, which was lost by Heliogabulus. He made war by his Lieutenants in Mauritania, Illyricum, and Armenia, and had good success: but afterwards in his expedition against the Germans, who had foraged the Country of Gallia, was murdered by certain of his own soldiers. Vlpianus the Lawyer, Pupinianus his scholar was very intimate with him, and in his time lived Paulus Pomponius, and Modestinus.  
To this Alexander Maximinus succeeded: 
Maximinus 234. An. 2.  He with main forces marches into Germany: his Army consisting not only of Roman soldiers, but also of Moors, Osdronians, and Parthians, who had served under Alexander. He burned the Dorps in Germany fare and wide, put very many of his enemies to the sword, and took many more prisoners, returning with a wealthy Army: Germany being at peace he marches to Syrmium, and was purposed to have made war against the Sarmatians, not only so, but his further intent was, to have brought all those Countries which lie northward even to the Ocean, in subjection to the Roman Empire: but his soldiers not enduring his cruelty, 
Gordianus 236. m. 1. d. 6.  created Gordianus their Captain General, which the Senate (bearing no good will neither towards Maximinus) ratified and proclaimed the other enemy to the Commonwealth. He, going about to revenge this fact, first made an Oration to the army, and then set forwards towards Rome: the Senate upon notice hereof proclaim Pupienus and Balbinus their Emperors: 
Pupienus, Balbinus 236. an. 1. some months.  and to Pupienus was committed the charge of the war against Maximinus, who, together with his son, was at the siege of 
l A City in Italy.  Aquileia slain by his own soldiers as he lay asleep in his Tent.  
After this, Pupienus and Balbinus being both slain in a mutiny amongst the soldiers in the second year of their reign, the government of the Empire was committed to Gordianus a young Gentleman. 
Gordianus junior, 237 Ann. 6.  He in the fourth year of his reign, marched through Moesia and Thracia against the Persians, & in those countries subdued the enemies of the Romans; from thence, striking through Syria, came to Antiochia, which was then held by the Persians. There he fought diverse battles, in so much as he compelled the Persians, who were in a manner accounted the terror of Italy, to contain themselves in their own limits. At length, in the sixth year of his Empire, he was slain, being betrayed by Philip Captain of the G●ard, 
Philip, 243. An. 5.  who had raised a mutiny amongst the soldiers. And this Philip also, who sent over his Lieutenants with an army against the Scythians that were up in arms against the confederates of the Romans and their free-boroughs, came to the 
m He was slain by his own soldiers at Verona. Decius, 248. An. 2.  like end: Decius succeeded him, who being created Emperor by the Legions of Illyricum, and afterwards by consent of the Senate; first of all appeased the troubles in Gallia. Afterwards commending the care of the Commonwealth to the Senate, He, together with his son, whom he had made his Colleague in the Empire, sets forwards, (having the Senate's consent thereunto) on his expedition against the Scythians, who both by sea and land foraged the country of Thracia and other dominions of the Empire: from whence (after some battles, having got the upperhand, and drawn the enemy into a narrow strait place) he had returned with complete victory, had not Gallus Hostilianus Governor of the furthest parts of Moesia, revealed his counsel to the enemy; whereupon it came to pass, upon joining battle, that both he and his son (by treachery circumvented) were slain.  
After this, 
Gallus 250. An. 1. m. 6.  Gallus made Emperor by one of the Legions, and the remainder of the furuiving soldiers, concluded a peace with the Scythians, to the dishonour and ignominy of the Romans, in that he promised to pay them tribute, never heard of before, and altogether unworthy the Majesty of so renowned a State. The Scythians hereupon grown more fierce, broke the league, overrun Dardania, Thrace, Thessaly, Macedonia, not resting there, but Asia also ●ouerthrowing and subverting very many Cities. At length, many other Countries, after the example of the Scythians, turned enemies to the Romans, and many rebelled. The Parthians broke into Syria, and seized upon Armenia, putting their King Tyridates to flight. And such was the insolency of the Seythians, that they threatened Italy also, and were likely to have done much mischief, had not Aemilianus Governor of Moesia upon the coast of Sarmatia, encouraging his soldiers with fair promises, and hope of rewards, given them an overthrow, and pursuing them very fare, 
Aemilianus, 252. m. 4.  took from them their own Territories: for this cause the soldiers proclaim him Emperor: and Gallus upon notice hereof, marching forth to resist them, was slain, together with his son Volusianus his Colleague in the Empire.  
In this age flourished Cyprian Bishop of Carthage, certain of whose Epistles to Lucius Bishop of Rome, whom he calls his brother and colleague, are amongst diverse others, yet extant: and many more of his to Cornelius, where amongst other matters, he complains of those, who being for their offences condemned by the Bishops of Africa, and degraded from their Priesthood, had appealed to Rome: for it is fit saith he, that where the crime is committed, there the cause should be discussed. Since every Pastor hath a certain portion of a flock committed to his charge, whereof he must render an account to the Lord: therefore the concord of Bishops is not to be abrogated, 
Valerianus 252. An. 7.  nor their decree to be annihilated, who had already given sentence in the cause, in Africa.  
In the mean space, another army, lying in the Alps, creates Valerianus Emperor, a man of Noble parentage, which when it came to the cares of Aemilians soldiers, they, to shake off all danger from themselves, kill their own Emperor, and fly to Valerianus his party. This Aemilianus, when he was made Emperor, sent his letters to the Senate, wherein he promised to deliver Thracia and Mesopotamia from the enemy, to recover Armenia, and on every side to repel the enemies of the Roman State. Valerianus making war against the Persians, was by fault of one of his Captains, taken prisoner, by Sapor King of Persia, whom the neighbouring Princes, and confederate Nations, counselled (but all in vain) to have dismissed. For it was the destiny of the Romans to grow more valiant in resistance, after they were conquered.  
Valerianus thus taken prisoner, 
Gallienus 295. An. 8.  his son Gallienus succeeded. He wholly gave himself to his pleasures, neglecting the Commonwealth, insomuch as the armies which lay dispersed in the Provinces, elected every one a new Emperor; as in Gallia, Spain, the Pannonia's, Illyricum, Egypt, Africa, and the rest: but partly by him, partly by civil dissensions amongst themselves, all those were overthrown. In his reign, the Goths seize upon Thracia, forage Macedonia, and besiege Thessalonica: the Scythians invade Bythinia, Cappadocia, and Asia, and striking through the 
n Which parteth Europe and Asia.  Euxine sea into 
o A River in Jllyricum, which gins in Germany, and is there called Danubius or Danow.  Isther, offer hostility against the free-borroughs of the Romans, but so excessive was his recklessness, then when these news of the Provinces revolt, and public calamity came to his ears, his reply was in derision and scorn: as though all this could not hinder the subsistence of the Commonwealth, or the preservation of the dignity thereof, or the state thereof be any whit impaired thereby. Thus by this dishonourable course of life, grown into contempt, as well at home as abroad, he got himself many enemies in the Commonwealth, the Scythians and Goths mixed together with other Nations, being about 320000. strong, were then up in arms, and had conspired the destruction of the Romans: 
Flavius Claudius 167. An. 1. m. 9 Aurelianus 269. An. 6.  but Flavius Claudius (who succeeded after Gallienus was slain,) with much ado vanquished all those in Moesia and other places.  
He was a man of great prowess, and worthy of a longer life. After Claudius, followed Aurelianus, because his worth was eminent, having made evident proof thereof in Claudius his reign, against the enemy in many places. He made wars in Insubria, and with the Marcomannes: at the beginning indeed with much hazard and jeopardy, but at length, (after the Sibylla's books, by his command, were perused, and the Senate had purged Religion) with happy success. After his return from thence to Rome, (where he inflicted a penalty upon those, who in his absence had raised an insurrection;) he made war for recovery of those Provinces which lay eastward, and in Syria, which Zenobia held, (a puissant and magnanimous Queen, and her own children's Tutrix) being left to her by her husband Odevatus, who in Gallienus his time, behaved himself very courageously and stoutly in those parts.  
Wheresoever this Emperor set his foot, there he overthrew the enemies of the Romans, as in Illyricum, Thracia, and the rest: and at length arriving in the 
p Syria.  enemy's country, after no less doubtful than dangerous battle, overthrew and took the 
q Zenobia.  Queen; who, relying upon the Armenian and Persian auxiliars, most valiantly resisted him. The chief City in that Country, (which he subdued,) was Palmyra: the Citizens whereof, upon the Emperor's return out of Asia into Europe, rebelled, killing their Governor, and maintaining a Garrison for their defence. But the Emperor making another expedition thither, demolished the conquered City, put all to the sword, not sparing any age or sex. After this, he recovered Egypt, which then had revolted, and of a new reduced the Gallia's into the Roman subjection. Then he triumphed at Rome, and from thence marching through Illyricum, proclaimed war against the Persians: but in his journey, was slain by his own familiar friends. After his death, there was a 
* Jnterregnum.  vacancy for a 
r For six months. Tacitus 275 m. 6.  space, which had never happened before since Romulus his decease. At length, Tacitus succeeded, who, continuing Emperor but a few months, achieved no memorable exploit; him the Senate requested, that he would not ordain his children his successors after him in the Empire, 
Florianus, m. 2. Probus 276 an. 6. m. 4.  but some man of approved worth and integrity: which was, Probus, who being confirmed, as well by the Legions as the Senate, recovered Gallia, and in diverse battles overthrew the 
s Inhabiting Franconia, now called Frankenlandt.  French, a people of Germany, who had gotten possession thereof. He vanquished the Sarmatians, and other Nations in Illyricum; and coasting through Thracia, with the very terror of the name of the Romans, and the greatness of his noble exploits, obliged the barbarous people to his subjection: In Asia he settled a peace, and the fame only of his name, made the Parthian King sue for peace. He concluded a peace with the Persians, and from thence returned into Thracia, and transplanted those foreign nations whom he had subdued into the Roman territories; some whereof, continued in subjection, but others contrariwise, notwithstanding afterwards he vanquished all or the greatest part of them: and having composed the rebellions in Gallia, Hispaine, and Britain, in his journey through Illyricum, towards his intended war against the Persians, was treacherously slain, by his own soldiers. At this time the Commonwealth flourished, peace being settled in all nations on every side fare and near; in so much as Probus would sometimes say, that the world would come to that pass shortly, that there would be no need of Legions and garrisons: but the soldiers offended at this his speech, thought it best to cut him off.  
After him, followed Carus: 
Carus 282. An. 1. and some months together with his sons, Corinus & Numerianus.  he subdued the Sarneatians, who now, after Probus his death, were grown more insolent, and menaced even Italy itself: then making an expedition against the Persians, took Mesopotamia, and marching on further, died. His younger son Numerianus served in the wars with him: his other son Carinus he had set over the Gallia's. Numerianus was slain by his 
t Arius Aper. Diocletian, 284. an. 20.  wife's father, and in his place, came Diocletian: with whom Carinus had diverse conflicts about obtaining the Empire, but was overthrown and slain. Diocletian in regard of the troubles and seditions in many places kindling, took to him for his Colleague, Maximianus. He quieted the country of Gallia then in commotion, as also Africa; and Diocletian Egypt putting the Authors of these broils to death. He recovered Britaina also in the tenth year after the revolt: and to the end that the state of the Commonwealth might be more firm, and to avoid new commotions about succession, he adopted Galerius, and Maximianus, Constantius Chlorius. Galerius being sent by Diocletian, against Narses King of the Parthians, had ill fortune in that war, losing the major part of his army: but afterwards commanded to renew the war, he overthrew the enemy in main battle, and marching on further in those places, than any other Emperor, except Trajan, took Ctesiphon, subdued all Assyria, and recovered the five Provinces, lying beyond the river 
u Running through Armenia.  Tigris, which had revolted in Trajan the Emperor's time.  
Diocletian having settled the affairs of Asia, returned into Europe, where the Scythians, Sarmatians, 
* Almains, lying betwixt the Alps and Ments, as Carrion supposes.  Alans, 
x People of Sarmatia.  Bastarnans, 
y ●welling about the River Carpis in Scythia. Constantius Galerius, 304. an. 2 m 3. an. 7. m. 5.  Carpies, Chatties, and Quadies, were then all in peace. Afterwards both he, as also Maximianus resigning their Sovereignty, invest their Colleagues before mentioned, with the title of Emperors: Constantius of the Gallia's, Britain, the Hispaines, Italy, and Africa; and Galerius, of Illyricum, Greece, and Asia: Marcellus was then Bishop of Rome, whose decree is extant, prohibiting Bishops from calling a Synod, without the authority of the Sea of Rome, as also to condemn any Bishop who should appeal to Rome. But Maxentius the Emperor persecuting him, his estate as others before him, was both mean and miserable. Whereupon it may easily be conjectured, whether or no, he (in those perplexities and lurking corners) could take so much upon him, as to establish such manner of decrees.  
At length Constantius dying at York, Galerius adopted Severus and Maximianus. In the mean space, the Praetorian soldiers at Rome, elect Maxentius their Emperor. After Severus was slain, Maximianus made choice of Licinius for his Colleague in the Empire. Among those arose great troubles: whereupon the Nobles of Rome call home Constantine, Constantius his son, then employed in the Gallia's, to rescue their City from the tyranny of Maxentius. 
Constantine the Great, 306. an. 30. m. 9 d. 27.  He marching forward into Italy, with part of his army, in pitched field, got the victory, and afterwards quite defeated Maxentius his forces at the City of Rome. After this, he fought against Licinius, who being overthrown in battle, and almost grown into hatred with all men, was at length slain by his own soldiers. Many writ that the cause of this war was, for that Licinius did bitterly persecute the professors of Christianity, although he had been very often entreated and admonished to the contrary by Constantine. For from the time of the resurrection of Christ, until this age, (almost three hundred years) the professors of Christ were diversely punished; omitting those whereof the Scripture makes mention, as of 
z Acts 7.  Stephen, 
a Acts 11.  james the brother of john, 
b Acts 9  Peter's imprisonment and enlargement by the Angel; passing over in silence Paul likewise, who grievously persecuted the Church of God, but after his conversion, escaped no kind of punishment for Christ's cause: the Roman Emperors also, as Nero, Domitian, Trajan, Septimius Severus, Decius, Valerian, Aurelian, Diocletian, and Maximian, committed most horrible and outrageous masfacres. But Constantine coming to the Empire, and embracing the true Religion, afforded harbour and refuge to the Christians. Then first of all began the Bishops of Rome to live in safe●ie; for till then, almost all of them, (who from Peter, whom they will have to be their first, are reckoned to thirty three) were tormented with persecutions. Their decrees are inserted in the books of the Counsels, but the greatest part of them are so sleight, trivial, & quite different from the sacred Scriptures, as makes it credible that they were a long time after forged by some others. But if they be true, and proceeded from them, than indeed that which Paul by prophecy foretold, 
2 Thes. 2.  seems most rightly to be applied to this place, that then that son of perdition and man of sin began to work the mystery of iniquity. That decree yet extant goes under Anacletus his name, the fourth from Peter, as they reckon; wherein he ordaineth the Church of Rome to be (by Christ's command and institution) the head of other Churches.  
To Alexander the next after him, is that decree attributed, where he commands, that the water should be consecrated with salt, to purge the people, and to avoid the snares of the Devil. But judge I pray you how far those differ from that Majesty of the Apostles, how fare from the writings of S. 
c S. jerom writes that he died in the 68 year after the passion. Suidas says that he lived 120 years.  john the Evangelist who almost lived till this very time. I have only set down these two decrees, that by them we may judge of the rest, for they are almost of the same mould, and carry open colour of ambition, and not only the speech wants the grace, but also the matter itself hath no salt in it, 
Colos. 4.  both which Paul requires in the Ministers of the Church.  
And to this place also appertains, that decree of Constantine the Emperor, which they have inserted into their books, for the foundation and bulwark of their power. For the cause and occasion of his excessive 
d In conferring (as they imagine) the City of Rome the Empire of the West etc. upon he Popes.  liberality, which is there set down, may out of history, be disproved and convicted of falsehood. Further, be it granted that the Emperor was thus most exceedingly profuse; perhaps for himself only, he might herein abate of his own right, but could not do it, for his successors, authorized with coequal power, and Protectors of the Commonwealth. For he who damnifies the freedom and liberties of his Empire, ought not to have the title of Father of his Country, nor can he ordain another to share with him in equality of authority or prejudice the same.  
By Constantine the Emperor's appointment, 
The first Council of Nice held in An. 325. continued 3. years.  a most populous Counsel was called and assembled at Nice a City in Bythinia, wherein the heresy of Arrius, denying Christ to be coequal in substance with his father, was condemned. It's recorded that many Bishops, not only out of Europe and Asia, but also out of Egypt and Lybia, met together there. Amongst other, one decree was, that through Egypt, Lybia and Pontapolis; the ancient custom should be maintained, that is, all the Bishops there, should remain under superiority of the Bishop of Alexandria, notwithstanding the usurpation and withholding thereof by the Bishop of Rome: as also that the Church of Antioch and other Provinces and Churches should each one entirely retain their peculiar privileges. After this Council, certain jewd opinions were vented, (one Eustathius being Author) about shunning of marriage, 
e In monastical manner, and some women artired in men's habit.  about a new and unusual kind of habit, about forbearance to eat flesh, and forsaking propriety of possessions. And hereupon (many husband's procuring a divorce, and servants leaving their masters, betaking themselves to this new and religious habit, as they call it; women likewise taking the same course, forsaking their husbands: and those who fed upon flesh, as also the Ministers of the Church that were married being publicly contemned, as persons impure and unacceptable to God;) a Counsel was assembled at Gangra a town in Paphlagonia, wherein those were condemned, who either taught or held that opinion.  
Constantine (for reestablishing a peace in the Commonwealth) being with most general acclamation, consumed both by the Senate and people of Rome, turned himself wholly to foreign wars, and after many battles overthrew the Goths and Sarmatians, then foraging the Country of Thracia; afterwards being strucken in years, he proclaimed war against the Persians, who wasted the Country of Mesopotamia: and in Asia, where he was arrived with his Army, (after receipt of a medicine for recovery of his health) breathed his last, not without suspicion of poison. This is he by surname, styled the Great: who named Byzantium a City of Thrace after his own 
f His desire was to have it called New Rome, but use prevailed and altered it to Constantinople.  name, and thither translated the Imperial Seat. He began his 
g At Rome, but he reigned 6. years before in Britain and elsewhere.  reign about the three hundred and twelfth year after the birth of Christ. It is written that Comets of wonderful greatness, were seen before his death. He left three sons, Constantine, Constantius, and Constans, amongst those was the body of the Empire divided, to Constantine part of the Alps, Gallia, Hispaine, Britain 
h The Island of Orkney lying near and belonging to Scotland.  the Orcadeses, Ireland, and 
i Now called Island lying beyond Scotland, as some say, others Hitland. Constantine, 337. An. 3. Constantius 337. An. 24 Conslaus 337. An. 1●  Thyle, were allotted: to Constans, Italy, Africa, with the Islands, Illyricum, Macedonia, Achaia, Peloponnesus, and Greece: to Constantius, Asia, and Thrace.  
Constantine not satisfied with this division made war upon his brother Constans, and at Aquileia (whither he was then come) joining battle with Constans his forces: lost both his Army and his life. Constans who in the mean time, was up in Arms against the 
k The same who were afterwards called Goths. Carion.  Geteses and Sarmatians in Dacia, returns into Italy, and having gotten the Alps, invaded Gallia, and in two year's space won all his deceased brothers dominions: but was slain within a while after by the treachery and crafty dealing of Magnentius. Him, the soldiers (before hand alured and inveigled with rewards) elected Emperor. Constantius the only surviving brother of the three, upon notice hereof, (deputing Gallus his uncle's son, and sister's husband, his Vicegerent over Asia) marches with a strong Army into Italy, and so into Gallia, where in main battle he overthrew the Enemy. But Magnentius escaping, sends his Ambassadors to sue for peace. Whose suit the Conqueror rejecting, he on a fresh wages battle again, but with ill success: thereupon flying to Lions, where perceiving his own friends to conspire his destruction, and not having any corner where to hide himself, became his own executioner. Afterwards Constantius commanded Gallus his Cousin german, and Vicegerent for Asia as abovesaid, (who abused his authority and power) to be put to death, when he could not otherwise remedy it. After this he returns into Asia, with intent to prosecute the war in Persia, which, by reason of Magnentius his faction abovementioned, he had broken off. And in regard the Germans about this time, making an inroad into Gallia, foraged the Country there, he adopted his other Cousin german julianus, Gallus his brother, and to him committed the protection of Gallia. julianus, (having had prosperous success in his designs, and in many battels gotten the upper hand) beat back the Enemy beyond the Rhyne, took many prisoners, and rescued many Roman soldiers out of prison, and at 
l Strasburg in Germany  Argentine almost quite cut off the Enemies whole Army. Hereupon the soldiers proclaim him not only Caesar, but also Augustus, and set a Diadem upon his head, but against his will as he pretended. For in his letters to Constantius he endeavoured to remove the envy of the fact from himself. But Constantius hereat greivously offended, ceasing his war in Persia, and liberally and kindly entreating the neighbouring nations, that they might continue their allegiance, sets forward on his journey to reduce julianus to his duty; but on the way whilst he was yet in Asia, being taken with a fever, ended his life, first ordaining julianus his successor.  
During julianus his reign the enemies contained themselves within their own bounds not raising any commotion in any place. 
Julianus 361. an. 1. m. 7. d. 23.  He himself went out against the Persians, and foraging Assyria (having put the Enemy's forces to flight) marched forwards as fare as Ctesiphon. At length returning home with his forces, the enemy set upon him in the rear, where, fight in the midst of his soldiers in the main battalia, he received a wound, whereof, within a while after, he died, an enemy to the name of Christ. The soldiers having thus lost their Leader, 
jovinianus, 363. m. 7. d. 22.  being plunged in great distress, create jovinianus Emperor: at what time julius the first of that name was Bishop of Rome: certain of whose Epistles to the Bishops of the East, are yet extant, in which he often presses it, that to Him alone, as Bishop, saith he, of the chief See, by a certain singular privilege and divine ordinance, belongeth the right of convocating General Counsels. But it may seem wonderful, with what face he could write thus, or they so boast of it, when as before him, Constantin● had called the Council of Nice; and after him, a hundred years full, Martianus the Emperor called the Council of Chalcedon. To Him also alone, as Primate of that City, saith he, appertains the cognizance of Episcopal causes, and other matters of that kind of more weighty importance. This his arrogancy the Bishops could not endure. But assembling at Antiech, boldly reply: That it was not fit, that the sentence by them passed should be repealed by him, for that they were possessed of the same degree of dignity, whereof he was, and the doctrine of Christ, came from their Countries to Rome 
* Tandem.  at the second hand, by the pains and ministry of the Apostles. Wherefore in case he should proceed, and make new decrees, they would not obey them, neither have communion with him, but would take such a course as the matter itself should require. And in another Council in the same City (of greater concourse than the former) amongst other decrees, They limit the office of a Bishop, as also of a Metropolitan, about discussing matters of more weighty importance. For they decreed, that in case the Bishops concur not, the Metropalitane of the next adjoining province, shall delegate certain judges to determine the cause. But if any Bishop be condemned for an offence by common decree of the rest of the Bishops, they ordain that their sentence shall stand firm, and not be repealed by another. They further establish that the Bishop, shall faithfully dispense the 
* Bona sacra.  goods of the Church, and distribute them to the use of the poor, and that he himself if need require, may take from thence as much as shall be necessary for natural sustentation. For St. Paul saith, 
1 Tim. 6.8.  We ought to be content with food and ●raiment. Which goods if the Bishop say they, shall perchance convert into his own or his friends private commodity, or commit the administration thereof to his kindred, he is to be restrained by a Council.  
At length joninianus (the enemy being at his back) concluded a dishonourable peace, redelivering those five Provinces beyond Tigris, (won by Galerius, as above mentioned) as also part of Mesopotamia: and afterwards covenanted that the Romans should lend no aid, to the King of Armenia their friend and confederate. Marching forth with his Army, as he was returning home died upon the borders of Bythinia. The soldiers forthwith create Valentinianus Emperor, who soon after his coming to Constantinople, 
Valentinianus 364. An. 11. m. 8. d. 32. together with his brother Valens  took his brother Valens to be his Colleague in the Empire, and commending those 
m Of the East.  Countries to his care, marched into Germany, where he subdued the Saxons bordering upon the Ocean, and soon after he had been in Gallia, 
n In Pannonia falling into a fever by an excessive straining of his voice in an angry reply against some offenders.  died as it is written upon a vehement passion of anger. By this time his brother Valens was arrived in Asia, to repress the Parthians foraging the Country of Armenia, and the King of Persia, who breaking the league, was fall'n into open hostility: But after the Huns or Tartars, and Scythians had overrun Pannonia, Epirus, and Thessaly, he returns into Europe, where in pitched battle being overthrown, and as he fled wounded and carried into a little cottage, which the Enemy setting on fire, he there died. That Edict of Valentinianus the Emperor, and of Valens, is yet extant, wherein it is provided, That those who betake themselves to a monastical life and solitariness, and in that regard escape warfare and public impositions, shall be drawn out of their cells, and either serve for their Country, or else forfeit all those benefits, afterwards conferred upon them, that undergo both pains and peril for the Commonwealth.  
The Enemies not long after (appeased by the Emperor's gift and money) departed from Constantinople which they then besieged. Saxony being at peace, Valentinian the Emperor chose his son Gratianus for his Colleague: 
Gratian 375. an. 7. m. 9 d 9 With his son Valen●i●tan the I●.  who, after his father and uncle Valens their decease, succeeded them both, both. But he (the Commonwealth being tossed with diverse billows of troubles) assumed Theodosius a worthy Commander in war, and sent him into the Eastern Countries. There at Constantinople, he vanquished the Huns, and Goths, and chased them out of the Coasts of Thrace. After this, Gratianus was treacherously slain in Gallia, by Maximus one of his Colonels who affected the Empire. Ausonius' of Bordeaux (certain of whose Poems are yetextant, was his Tutor for literature, whom afterwards he advanced to the dignity of a Consul. His son Valentinianus also died in manner of the same death, by the treachery of his familiar friend Arbogastus. But the murderers escaped not , for both of them were slain by Theodosius the Emperor. Maximus was taken and put to death at Aquileia, and the other acted that part himself.  
Those Tyrants thus cut off, 
Theodosius 378. an. 16. d. 12.  Theodosius possessed of the Empire, ordains his two sons Honorius and Arcadius his Colleagues: to whom by reason of their nonage he appointed Protectors, or as it were Governors: to Arcadius he assigned Ruffinus, and to Honorius, Siilico; sand not long after departed high life. 
The second Council of Constantinople, An. 381.  By his command a Council was held at Constantinople, wherein the heresy of Macedonius, who derogated from the Divinity of the holy Ghost, was condemned. The Fathers there assembled, being as it is recorded, 150 in number, ordained Bishops, both there as also at Antiochia, which they style the elder and truly Catholic Church, & at jerusalem which they call the Mother of all Churches. They transmitted those their proceed to Darsasus Bishop of Rome, who endeavoured to call them to Rome. Saint Hierom when he was young, was familiar with this Damasus. He was the Author of that memorable saying. Wheresoever the Bishop is, be it at Rome, Engubium, Constantinople, Rhegium, or Alexandria, he is of the same demerit and Priesthood. Theodosius hath the fame for a very godly Prince, who being reprehended by St. Ambrose Bishop of Milan, and prohibited entrance into the church took it patiently.  
Arcadius' governed in the East at Constantinople, 
Arcad us 395 a●. 13. m. 3 d. 15. Together with Honorius, who reigned about 15. years after the death of Arcadius.  and Honorius at Rome. But Ruffinus with intent to translate the Empire to himself, underhand incited the King of the Goths to make war against Arcadius: whose treachery being disclosed, he was slain by the soldiers.  
Innocent the first of that name excommunicated Arcadius the Emperor, for that he gave consent to have Saint john Chrysostome expelled out of his Church, as it is related in the Papal Law. At this time flourished Saint Augustine also, Bishop of Hippo, who was present at the third and fourth Counsel of Carthage, where amongst others, those decrees passed, That the Bishop should have a little mansion house near to his Church.  
That his householdstuff should be mean, his table and provision poor, and by his uprightness and integrity of life, should get himself authority. That he should use the utensils of the Church, as things committed to his charge, and not as his own.  
This Innocent the first writ also to Saint Austin, and to Aurelius Bishop of Carthage, where exhorting them to mutual prayers, he calls them brothers, and fellow-priests. After Innocent followed Zozimus, who commending the decrees of the Fathers, and of antiquity, saith that it is not lawful, no not for the See of Rome, as they call it, to make any alteration therein, or any contradictory decree. He also reprehends & corrects the custom of his time, that many men of no learning, aspired to the order of Priesthood. Boniface the first succeeded Zozimus, in whose time the sixth Council of Carthage was assembled, whereto there was great concourse, wherein Saint Austin also was present. Boniface sending his Legates thither, declared that the Council of Nice had granted such privilege to the See of Rome, that all Provinces every where, should appeal thither: and therefore requested the Fathers there assembled, to establish and confirm the same. Their answer was, that as far as they knew, there was not any such decree at Nice, but, that the certain truth might be sifted out and known, they were agreed to send for a true copy of the Council, from the Churches of Alexandria and Constantinople; which being at length produced, the decree was found quite contrary: to wit, each Province should have the cognizance of their own causes, and that an appeal should lie from the Bishops to the Counsels of the Province, or else to the Ecumenical Council, as they call it. St. Cyril was then Bishop of Alexandria. Boniface died before the copy came, and his successor Celestinus urging the same, had his answer according to the tenor of that decree.  
Arcadius dying, his son Theodosius the II. succeeded, 
Theodos. II. 408. an. 42. m. 2. d. 28.  in whose reign, and by whose command, a Council was held at Ephesus, in which Nestorius was condemned, who denied that Christ was borne God of the Virgin Mary, and at this time died St. Augustine. On the other side Stilico Honorius his Protector dealt no less perfidiously than Ruffinus: For he not only gave the Goths leave to inhabit and seat themselves in Gallia, but also instigated them to march into Italy, with their Leader Alaricus, and took the City of Rome, which happened in the year of Rome built 1162, and of our Lord 412.  
The Goths keeping their Rendezvous at Rome for a while, and harrazing the Country till they came to 
n A seacoast town in Italy, now called Reggio, opposite to Sicily.  Rhegium, from thence sailed over into Sicily, where they suffered shipwreck, and lost their King. But Stilico still continuing his villainous and treacherous practices, with intent to translate the sway of government into his own son Eucherius his hands: was (upon discovery of his plot) taken, and by Honorius his command put to death. King Alaricus thus dispatched, the Goths elected his kinsman Adolphus their King, and under his leading marched back again to Rome, where, what remained, they spoil. He being slain, Gensericus reigned, after whose death followed Wallis, with whem Constantine Honorius. his sister's husband and Lieutenant for the Gallia's, as afterwards Colleague in the Empire: entered into amity and league, granting them Aquitania a part of Gallia to inhabit.  
At the same time the Scots and Picts. infested Britain, but were put to flight by the auxiliary forces sent from Honorius the Emperor, likewise the Vandals and Alans, with their chieftain, Gense ricus pillaged up and down Hispaine.  
After Honorius his decease at Rome, his sister's son Valentinianus succeeded him in the West and at Rome. Theodosius Arcadius his son, as above recited, in the mean space governed the other part of the world at Constantinople.  
About this time the Vandals and Alans (provoked by the dissensions and factions of the Roman Captains in Africa) break forth out of the Hispaines into Africa, and wasted the country with fire & sword. After with destruction, a certain part of Africa was given them to inhabit.  
The Goths (who by Honorius his permission and consent as a little abouementioned, inhabited Aquitane in Gallia) not satisfied with their own bounds, offered violence and injury to their neighbours: and wearied Narbon with their siege. But Litorius being dispatched thither with forces, raised the siege, set the Town at liberty, brought in provision, and giving them battle, at the first sped well, but afterwards was taken with the loss almost of his whole Army: so great was this overthrow that the Romans were forced to sue for peace. In like manner Gensericus King of the Vandals, breaking the league made with the Romans in Africa, as before mentioned, on a sudden surprises Carthage, where he exercised much cruelty: which City had then continued in subjection to the Romans, for 585. years. Thus having got possession of Carthage, he strikes over into Sicilia, which he made flow with blood. Hereupon Theodosius the Emperor rigging a Navy, prepares for war against the Vandals, but by reason the Huns foraged Thrace and Illyricum, the Army was recalled out of Sicily, to defend those parts. The Scots & Picts then again make an irruption into Britain, and the inhabitants despairing of aid from the Romans, desire help from the English, 
The Saxons invade Britain, about 448.  a people of Saxony: who being alured with the beautifulness of the country, by little and little conveying over more forces (oppressing the Britain's) brought the greatest part of the Island into their subjection. Not long after this, Theodosius the second, died at Constentinople; in whose reign, as it is written, the Sun was doubled, and a comet appeared almost from the Ideses of july, till the month of September.  
Martianus succeeded Theodosius in the East. 
Martianus 450. an. 6. m. 6.  We have above mentioned Gensericus, with whom Valentinianus concluded a peace, dividing Africa betwixt them. About this time, Athila King of the Huns, having got Ducia and Pannonia, most cruelly harrazed the neighbouring Countries, Macedonia, Mysia, Thracia, intending to conquer the Eastern part of the Roman Empire. But perceiving that the war would be extreme difficult, in regard the Goths, (who then were in league with the Romans, and inhabited part of Gallia, as abovesaid) aided the Romans, therefore by his Ambassadors, he requires their amity and confederacy, but Aetius Valentinianus the Emperor's Lieutenant prevented that; who corroborating the league with Theodoricus king of the Goths, wholly bend himself to the war. Athila nevertheless proceeds, and in the Downs of chaalon's, (which part of France in regard of the plains, is Champagne) was this most dismal battle fought, in which as it is recorded, 180000. men were slain. And Athila losing the day, determined to kill himself, lest he should fall alive into the hands of his enemies. Howbeit king Theodoricus his son, following Aetius the Lieutenant's counsel, returned home with his forces, to succeed his deceased Father: whereby Athila getting time to recollect himself, retires into Pannonia, and leaying new forces, marches, full swollen with revenge, into Itali●: where at length, winning the City of Aquilleia, (first wearied out with a long-continuing siege) sacked and burnt it. Then forthwith he takes Concordia, Milan, Vicentia, Verona, Brescia, Bergamo, Milan and Pavia: and so pillaging up and down 
o Romandiola.  Flaminia, encamped at the meeting of the River of Mencius and Po: where deliberating about his passage to Rome with his Army, Leo the first of that name, Bishop of Rome, comes to him, and so fare prevailed, that altering his intent, he not only surceased his expedition to Rome, but also quite removing out of Italy, returned into Pannonia, where within a while after he ended his days.  
This was that Leo, many of whose Epistles to Theodosius the second, and Martianus the Emperor, are extant, wherein he partly apologises for his absence from the Counsels by them convocated, and entreats them not to be offended for sending thither of his Legates; and partly also requests, that they would design some place in Italy, rather than in Asia, for the celebrating of Counsels: but he obtained nothing.  
Whilst Athila thus raged up and down Italy, the City of Venice was builded; 
Venice begun to be built, An. 430.  when many of the abler sort, leaving the adjoining places, betook themselves to those sea-sands, little Islelands, and hillocks, as into some harbour. Thus mean and in a manner desperate and miserable, was the beginning of this City, which now, as we see, is grown to a wonderful greatness. They reckon 805. Dukes till this time; the first whereof was 
p Some Authors call him Paulutius Anafestus, and write of his beginning in Anno Dom. 697. and after their City built, 282.  Paulus Anazatus, in the year of grace, 706. being 252. years after the beginning of the building of their City.  
Afterwards when Valentinianus was slain, Gensericus King of the Vandals, sailing over with a Navy from Africa into Italy, marches with an exceeding great army (being aided by the Moors) towards Rome, and takes the City, in a manner left quite desolate: but at the earnest request of Leo the Bishop, who also, as aforesaid, appeased Athila: he forbore fire and sword: The Citie-sackt, captives were transported to Carthage in great troops. The enemies after this, infested Campania with grievous outrages, race Capua, Nola, Naples, and other Cities: those who survive the sword, they condemn to the irons, and grown rich with the wealth of Italy, return into Africa.  
Martianus, Emperor of the East, a Prince of a calm nature, enjoyed peace: he was wont to say: That it was not sitting for a Prince to take arms, as long as he might live in peace. In his reign, 
The fourth Council at Chalcedon in Bythinia.  and by his command, a very great Council was assembled at Chalcedon, wherein Eutyches who confounded the two natures in Christ, was condemned.  
There, amongst the rest, it was decreed, that no Clerk, as they call them, should be admitted to the Churches of two Cities. Plurality of liuings, as we term it, was not then heard of, which now is grown so ordinary, as nothing is more common. And almost within our memory, that custom crept in amongst other blemishes of the Church, that the Pope may confer two Bishoprickes upon one man. If now therefore he would restore the custom in this behalf, which was held in the next precedent age; he should do his duty, but seeing that cannot be, can we suppose it ever to be granted, that matters shall be amended according to the holy Scriptures, and decrees of the Apostles and primitive times? No, they toil in vain, that balance the deeds of the Popes, with the rules of ancient Religion.  
Martianus dying in the seventh year of his Empire, 
Leo, 457. an. 17.  Leo succeeded him: and Auitus, (when Gensericus after the taking of Rome, was returned into Africa) succeeded Valentinianus at Rome, and in the West, next to him, Majoranus, than Severus, and after him, Anthemius: after those followed others, but nothing eminent, who perished in their mutual massacres and treacheries, and reigned but a while, insomuch that now the other part of the Roman Empire in the West, stood in great danger.  
Nothing memorable is recorded of Leo the Emperor, but that he entered into amity and league with the Goths, then wasting Illyricum, and an Epistle or two of Leo the Bishop of Rome's to him, 
Zeno 474. an. 17. m. 2. d. 7.  are extant. Zeno 
q Called Isauricus, because he was borne in Isaurica in Cicilia.  Isauricus was his successor. Among stthose also, who ruled in Rome, after Valentinianus his death, Augustulus was one, in whose reign, Odoacer with a main army of Herulians and Syrians, out of Pannonia, invades Italy, takes Orestes, a Nobleman of Rome, who was fled to Pavia with his forces) puts him to death, sacks and burns the City: and marching on, takes in the whole Country as far as Rome. Augustulus dejected in mind, voluntarily resigns his Empire: Odoacer enters the City, and obtaining the kingdom of Italy, governed without resistance fourteen years. But at length, Theodorieus King of the East-Gothes, sent by Zeno the Emperor: marching from Constantinople, overthrew the 
r Part of the Goths.  Gepides and Bulgarians, opposing him; and so making his way through Mysia, and Pannonia, arrives in Italy, and encamps himself not fare from Aquileta: whither Odoacer afterwards repairing, a sharp battle ensued. Odoacer losing the day, fled; but recollecting his forces, joins battle on fresh, and is again overthrown, most part of his army lost: some whereof perished in battle, others in 
s A River running through Verona.  Athesis. He flies amain towards Rome, where shut out, he spoils the Country about, and comes to Ravenna: there at length, after three years siege, upon the Cities yielding, she was taken and put to death.  
Odoacer thus cut off, Theodoricus became Lord of Italy, marches to Rome, where he assembled two Counsels of Bishops, whom he called together out of sundry Provinces of Italy, to sit upon 
t Pope of Rome.  Symmachus his cause, whom the greatest part refused, as one unworthy, and falsely created. This Theodoricus was an Arian, as the Papal books have it. His surname was 
u Because of his victory at Verona.  Veronensis, and was descended from that Theodoricus abouementioned, who was slain in the battle against Athila King of the Huns. Odoacer was a 
* Of Rugerland in Pomerania.  Rugian, a people of Germany, upon the Danish sea. Theodoricus thereby to strengthen himself, obliged the Kings of the Vandals, Visigothes, and Burgundians to him by affinity.  
Whilst the squares went thus in Italy, great troubles were on foot, throughout Thrace, Africa, and Britain, where at length, the Saxons got the upperhand.  
Zeno dying at Constantinople, 
Anastatius, 491. an. 27. m. 3. d. 3.  Anastatius succeeds him. He favoured many of those, who allowed of Eutyches his opinion: whereupon a dissension grew betwixt him and Gelasius Bishop of Rome: who by tedious letters dehorts him, as their books have it, from undertaking the protection of them: for there were two things saith he, whereby principally this world should be governed; the sacred authority of Bishops and regal power: and so much the more charge lies upon the Priests, for that they, even for other men, must render an account to the Lord: but he was to govern for civil policy, yet so, as to be subject to the Ministers of God, and to depend upon their judgement: and seeing that Priests do obey the laws political, it is likewise just, that he himself should not refuse those constitutions, which the Steers-men in matters divine establish: therefore since this honour ought to be given to all Ministers of the Church, the cause itself requires, that to him most especially it should be attributed, whom God by his own word, as also the consent of the Church, would have to rule over the whole order of Priests. Let him leave off therefore, and rather hear him an excuser in this life, then find him an accuser in the other. After this, his decree concerning the holy Bible is annexed, in which he grants superiority to the Sea of Rome, as they call it, then to Alexandria, & the third place to Antiochia.  
In Anastatius his reign, Sicily was tossed with troubles and hostile insurrections, which were quenched by the Author's death. Then also the Huns wasted Armenia, and Cappadocia: the Geteses, Macedonia, Thessaly, and Epirus: from both which the Emperor was enforced to buy his peace by gifts, and no small losses.  
Much about this time, which was in the year of Grace, 500 Clodoveus King the French, first of all embraced the Christian Religion, having been very oft and earnestly solicited thereunto, as also to forsake his Idols and superstition: by his wife who was of the house of Burgundy. The Council of Orleans in his reign established, which consisted of thirty three French Bishops, is extant: wherein amongst the rest it is decreed, that if the ravisher of a Virgin shall fly to a Church, though he have offered violence to the Virgin, yet he shall not come within danger of death: but shall either be as a bondslave, or else redeem himself from her.  
Anastatius slain by lightning, or as the papal law speaks, dying upon an 
x Sleidan (as. Meibomius notes) here mistakes the Emperor, for Pope Anastatius. justine, 518 an. 9 d. 24. ●  eruption of his bowels: justinus succeeded, a man of obscure parentage, and from a swineherd made a soldier, as it is written. He was at dissension with Theodoricus King of the Goths, Lord of Italy, about diversity of Religion, but yet they held off from blows: Theodoricus dying, Alaricus his Grandchild by his son, succeeded, to the great joy and contentment of the Goths. john the first of that name, was then Bishop of Rome. He with other more, was sent in Ambassage, by the aforementioned King Theodoricus, to Constantinople; where, as their books relate, he was most honourably entertained, not only by the people, but also by the Emperor himself. For they, say they, were exceeding joyous, that it was their fortune, now at length to see and entertain the blessed S. Peter's Vicar, as they term him, in Greece; which had never befallen them before since Constantine's time the Great, and Syluesters. But it is strange, that they should pra●e thus of Sylvester, who came not into Greece, as it is manifest: For, then when it was most behooveful, as also needful, I mean at the Council of Nice, he stirred not, but sent thither his Legates, Victor and Vincent: and afterwards as they relate, he himself assembled another Council at Rome, wherein he confirmed the decrees of the Council of Nice. There is extant also, a consolatory Epistle of this john the first to the Bishops of Italy, wherein he exhorts them, that albeit King Theodoricus polluted with Arian heresy, threatened destruction to them, and to all Italy, yet they should not desist from their purpose, but resolutely proceed.  
After justine, 
justinianus, 527. an. 38. m. 3. d. 13.  his sister's son justinianus was made Emperor: He wholly bend himself to the restoring of the Commonwealth, and at his first entrance, set over the whole charge of government to Belisarius, who by many great battles, overcame the Persians, transgressing their bounds, and offering violence to the Roman dominions: set free Illyricum, wasted by the Gepidaes' and Bulgarians, reduced the Parthians being up in arms, to amity: overthrew the Vandals most powerful forces in Africa, recovered Carthage; and from thence striking over into Sicily, where having notice of the rebellion in Africa, he returns thither, and speeds well. Then at length marching into Italy, takes Naples, sacks it, overthrows the Goths, whose King Theodatus then was. After this, he repairs to Rome, where he was kindly and honourably entertained by all, removing from thence, takes in the towns and forts every where, and amongst the rest, Perousa: after this, he besieges Ravenna, where Vitigis, King of the Goths giving him battle loseth his Army, is taken prisoner, and carried away by Belisarius to Constantinople. The Goths renewing their forces in the country beyond Po, elect Hildebrand their king. To him, two succeeded, and after them, Totilas. He in Belisarius his absence, overrunning all Italy, takes Rome, after a siege, sacks and sets fire on it. Belisarius hereupon recalled, having finished the war against the Parthians, who again foraged Syria, returns into Italy, and recovers the City in a manner left desolate: and then encountering with the enemy, had a happy battle: but sailing into Sicily for provision, is called back by justinianus, which afforded occasion to Totilas, to renew his forces, & return to Rome. The Emperor forthwith ordains Narses the Eunuch, General in the Italian war: he expelled the Goths quite out of Italy, which was so much the easilier effected, they having lost their King Totilas, who died of a wound. That war with the Goths, lasted eighteen years. And justinianus thus recovering Italy, and Africa, after he had assumed his Grandchild by his daughter, for his Colleague in the Empire, departed this life. Some writ, that he was a Prince of a dull nature, and overswaied by his wife Theodora. Tribonianus the Lawyer was in high esteem with him: he who (abrogating the writings and disputations of the Ancients) gathered out of them an hotchpotch of the laws, and left us the fragments only, which now go under the name of the Pandects: But he had certain helpers in that work, whose names are mentioned all over. He did the like also in the references and laws of the Emperors, which being comprehended in three books, the Gregorian, Hermogenian, and Theodosian: he contracted into one volume, naming it justinian's Code, using other men's helps therein, whose names the Emperor reckons up in the preface to his book. There are Authors that report, how this Tribonianus was a covetous man, and for gain, 
Virgil 6. Aenoad.  (as the Poet saith) made and marred laws. In the Code before mentioned, there are many of justinian's laws, which contradict the former. There was added also, a peculiar work, of new constitutions, which throughout bear the name and title of justinian.  
The Emperor entreated Belisarius, whom I spoke of, (him by whose prowess he had obtained so many and so glorious victories) most ignominiously: and in his extreme old age, caused his eyes to be put out. In his reign, some Counsels were assembled at Constantinople, wherein Menna, Patriarch of that City, sat Precedent: who, as their books have it, is styled the most holy, most blessed, and ecumenical. In the beginning of the Code, an Epistle of the Emperor to the Archbishop of the City of Rome, is set down, wherein he calls him, the Head of all Churches, and subjects all to him. Furthermore, although the learned are of opinion, that it was forged, yet grant it be true, it is certain, that this controversy continued many years after, till at length the Bishops of Rome, amplified with abilities, prevailed: and in the possession of the Church, would erect to themselves a Tower, which, whether reared by the hands of men, or favour of Princes, now carries the name, as though it were founded by power divine. We have formerly mentioned how the sixth Council of Carthage was held in S. Austin's time, wherein Pope Boniface the first, and Pope Caelestines fallacies were unmasked, when they alleged how it was decreed at Nice, that all Provinces should appeal to them. And in justinian's time, Boniface the second was Bishop of Rome, whose Epistle is extant, wherein he sharply reprehends Aurelius Bishop of Carthage in the  Council, and says, that he with his fellows, did by the devil's instigation resist the Church of Rome: as also, gives God thankes, that in his time, Eulalius, Aurelius his successor, was reconciled to the Church of Rome, and after that, rehearses the words of Eulalius, wherein he professes, that he condemns both his predecessors and successors whosoever they be, that go about to weaken the privileges of the holy and Apostolical Church of Rome.  
Agapetus the next to Boniface, removed Anthemius Patriarch of Constantinople out of his place, for denying the two natures in Christ. Theodora the Empress, took this very heinously, and by Belisarius, admonished Siluirius Agapetus his successor, to restore him: and Belisarius (certain other accusations also being laid to his charge) turns him out of his place, and sends him into banishment, substituting Vigilius, who likewise called to Constantinople, and refusing to recall Anthemius, was condemned to the like punishment: whereby it sufficiently appears, in what manner the Bishops of Rome were then subject to the power of the Emperor.  
justine the II. 
justine I●I. 565. an. 10. m. 10. d. 20.  being Emperor, the Persian war was renewed, which miscarrying, Archelaus the Emperor's Lieutenant, of a new concludes a peace,  
Narses the Emperor's Lieutenant throughout Italy, (after the Goths were expulsed, and Totilas dead) held Italy almost sixteen years: afterwards called home by the Emperor from whom receiving certain unwelcome letters, and therein perceiving his ingratitude, he not only stays still, but surther for revenge, (sending away his Ambassadors) instigates the Lombard's then seated in Pannonia, proffering them very large rewards, to departed from Pannonia and come into Italy, the most pleasant and fruitful of all Countries. Thereupon they took that part of Italy, which till this day, retains the name from them. This justine as it is written, constituted an Exarch, Governor throughout Italy: he was as it were the Emperor's Vicar or Deputy: His chief seat was at Ravenna, neglecting Rome, and in each City and town ordaining some Governor. The Italian writers report that this new ordinance, was the bane of Italy, and Rome. Narses soon after died at Rome.  
Tiberius not long before adopted and made Colleague in the Empire, 
Tiberius' II. 576. an. 6. m. 10. d. 8.  was justines' successor. He got two happy victories against the Persians: and established a peace with the Lombard's, whose Kingdom then reached from the Samnites unto the Alps, the City of Rome only expected, which after they had for a space sharply besieged, at length (constrained by force of tempest and rain) raised their siege. 
Mauritius 582. an. 19 m. 3. d. 11.  Mauritius, Tiberius his son in law, being created Emperor, in some certain battles by his Lieutenants, overthrew the Persians, and at length concluded a peace with them: recalling his Army, he expelled the Scythians out of Mysia, repressed the Lombard's throughout Italy: chased the Huns out of Pannonia: but being hated of the soldiers for his covetousness, was enforced (upon a mutiny arisen) to fly to Chalcedon, & there at length was slain, together with his wife, children, 
Phocas 603. an. 8. m. 4. d. 9  and whole race, by Phocas the Centurion, who afterwards through sedition, was proclaimed Emperor.  
It is written that in Mauritius his reign, a Comet appeared for six months space, and then also was Mahomet borne, whom we will speak of hereafter.  
At that time, john Bishop of Constantinople, styled himself the universal Patriarch: but Pelagius the second, Bishop of Rome, vehemently resisted him, and pronounced his decrees void. His successor Gregory, the first sharply reprehends him for this, and indeed confesses, that in the Council of Chalcedon, this title and honour was given to his predecessors, but none of them used it. As also he exhorts Mauritius the Emperor by his Letters, to restrain him, for that also appertained to his authority, which he (in arrogating such a kind of power) did much impair. It is recorded that the next after Gregory, Boniface the III obtained the primacy from Phocas, certain Edicts and charters being published in that behalf.  
In Phocas his reign the Persians very greivously annoyed the Commonwealth: seizing upon Mesopotamia, and Assyria, and marching on even unto the lesser Asia, such was the negligence of this Prince. Germany also, together with Gallia, and a great part of Italy revolted. The Saracens wasted Egypt: and he himself being slain for his cruelty and neglect of the Commonwealth, Heraclius succeeded. Then again the Persians marching on very fare through Egypt, invade Africa, which they bring under their subjection. The Scythians diversely dismember Europe. Heraclius at length marching into Asia, when he could not make his peace, though propounding certain conditions, little tending to the honour of the Romans, almost by mere constraint encountered with the Persians, (who now also foraged judaea) and in a battle or two discomfited them. Then marching on beyond the River Tigris, and ransacking Persia fare and wide (entering at length into amity with Sirochus the 
a Cosroes.  King of Persia's son, who having slain his father, set upon the Kingdom) recovered Africa, and Egypt, and whatsoever else the Persians had taken, and it was covenanted that the River Tigris should divide the Persian and Roman dominions. At this time also the Saracens serving in the wars under Heraclius, being defrauded of their pay, revolt in huge troops, and pillaging up and down Syria, (Mahomet being their Chieftain) took Damascus, foraged Egypt, subdued Arabia, and gave the Persians some overthrows. This Mahomet was by parentage obscure, but subtle and adventurous, as also afterwards enriched by marriage: and by reason of his prompt wit carrying great sway he propounds a new kind of doctrine (to reason indeed very delectable, but for the most part ridiculous and foolish) whereby he might more and more oblige the minds of men, and more firmly possess himself with sovereignty. And though this flame might at first have easily been quenched, yet being neglected, in short space grew to a main height: and so from that time the Majesty and Empire of the Romans in the East, decayed more and more, Nation's revolting one after another.  
In Heraclius his reign, the fourth Council of Toledo was celebrated, where, because most part of the Priests throughout Spain, did not every day (but only upon that day which we call Sunday) use that prayer which Christ himself taught us: amongst other matters, a reformation therein was decreed, as also that the Apocalyps of S. john, as they say should be read in the Church from Easter to Whitsuntide.  
The Goths than reigned in Hispain, when as the Spaniards (grown weary, as it is common, of foreign government) attempting an innovation, this Council under a severe penalty prohibited the practising of any conspiracy against their King or the Gothish Nation: and that after the King's decease, the States and Clergy of the whole Nation, 
Constantine the III. reigned 2. months, and Heraclian two years.  should by common consent appoint the successor. The same decree was also renewed in some other of their assemblies. The singing of the Hebrew Allelujah in the Church, in time of Lent was likewise forbidden, 
Constans the II. 642. an. 27. m. 8. d. 10.  for that it was a time of sorrow and not of rejoicing. To Heraclius, Constans succeeded, who was his grandchild by his son Constantine. He had an infortunate sea-fight with the Saracens, who getting the victory, took Rhodes, and without doubt had proceeded further, had not the factions kindled amongst them procured a two year's truce with the Romans. The Emperor having this time to pause, marches with an Army into Italy, thereby, as he boasted, to rescue it out of the Enemy's hands: and arriving at Tarento, besieged Luceria, and other places of Apulia belonging to the Lombard's: but in his journey towards Naples, his rereguard was cut off by the Lombard's. Entering Rome peaceably, at length he disrobes the City of all its ornaments, and there staying a few days struck over into Sicily, where afterwards he was murdered in a Bath: and some dissension arising after his death about succession, the Saracens (laying hold on this opportunity) with a great Navy invaded Sicily, commit a horrible massacre of the Islanders, take Syracuse and carry away with them all Constans his spoils taken from Rome. 
Constantine the IIII, or Bearded, 669. an. 16. d. 7.  To Constans, Constantine the FOUR succeeded, commonly called the Bearded. He for certain years encountering with the Saracens, at length vanquished them insomuch as they sued for peace, and for a thirty year's Truce: as also condescended to pay a yearly Tribute: and the Romans Enemies in the East herewith shaken implore a peace. But the Bulgars, transpassing their bounds waste Thrace, with them a peace was at length concluded, and both the 
b Now Bursia in Asia.  Mysia's yielded up to them: but afterwards (when they perceived the Romans negligence) breaking the league, fly out again, and extenuate the forces of the Empire. This Emperor as it is recorded, was the first, that ordained, that whom the Clergy and people of Rome together with the soldiers, had created Bishop of that City, he should obtain full power: for till this time the dignity of Bishop of Rome depended upon the confirmation either of the Emperor, or of his Deputy for Italy. There is a long Epistle extant of Pope Leo the TWO, to Constantine, wherein he condemns all manner of heretics, and highly extols him for his love to, and protection of Religion, as also for his liberality and munificence: adding, that the Church having gotten such a Defender, most joyfully triumphed. 
The sixth Council at Constantinople, 680.   
The sixth Counsel at Constantinople was held in his reign which consisted of 150. Bishops. Wherein, about the end thereof, mention is made (but in obscure words) of those Canons styled the Apostles. But Gratianus reckons up the contrary opinions, for he avers, that there be those that can affirm, that they were compiled by heretics, rejected by the Primitive Church, and accounted among the Apocrypha's. Yet it is written that Zepherinus B. of Rome, in order the sixteenth approved them: as also, after him, this Council before mentioned, which (as they report) was ended in justine the II. his time, Constantine the FOUR his son. In brief, all floats upon incertain grounds, neither do they agree in the number of the Canons, for some hold 50. others 60. others 84. in which number indeed they are extant. Whereby it may easily be conjectured that more were added by degrees, and afterwards (though proceeding from many) comprehended under one title. It is written that then also the Archbishop of Ravenna, subjected himself to the Bishop of Rome, who before that (but most especially after the translation thither of the Exarchy) would yield nothing at all to him.  
To Constantine, 
justinian, TWO 686. an. 10.  justinianus his son succeeded; he by reason of his nonage and inexperience, misgoverned the Commonwealth, and breaking the league which his father had made with the Saracens and Bulgars, was brought to that pinch, as he himself was constrained to sue for peace to both of them. At length, being thrust out for his cruelty, an● banished with his nose cut off, Leontius succeeded, 
Leontius, 696 an 3.  having been prisoner two years upon suspicion of affecting the Empire. In the time of those broils, the Saracens invade Africa, but were within two years after chased out thence by force of arms. The Roman soldiers forsaking the garrison in Africa, sith the Emperor slighted over all affairs with negligence and carelessness, and fearing lest they should again be expelled by the Saracens, 
Tiberius Apsimarus 699. an 7.  who were then exceeding strong: create one Tiberius Emperor. He marches with his forces to Constantinople, where winning the City, takes Leontius, cuts off his nose, cast him into prison, and constitutes a new Exarch in Italy. And whilst all matters were carried after this boisterous manner, the Saracens laying hold on this fit opportunity, march out of Egypt, with an huge Army: and again surprise Africa, and Lybia, and well-nigh all Hispaine.  
justinianus (he whom I above spoke of, 
justinian the II. again, 706. An. 6.  expelled and banished by Leontius,) by help of Tribellius King of Bulgaria, at length takes Constantinople, and therein Leontius, and Tiberius, whom he put to death: 
c First causing them to be carried up and down the city bound in cords, then trampling upon their necks and lastly beheading them. Philippius Bardanes, 712. an. 2. m. 9 d. 7.  after which he reigned six years cruelly, proving also ingrateful to King Tribellius, and at length joining battle with Philippicus Bardanes, to whom the soldiers had revolted, both he and his son Tiberius were there slain. Pope Constantine pronounced this Philippicus (for difference in Religion) a Schismatic, whose eyes being afterwards plucked out by his own servants, Anastatius the II. was his successor. 
Anastatius the II. 715. an. 1. m. 3.   
He sent a strong Navy to the Rhodes to make war with the Saracens, constituting an ecclesiastical person General thereof: whom the soldiers refusing to obey, a mutiny arose and one Theodosius of obscure parentage was created Emperor, 
Theodosius Adramittenus, 716. m. 7. d. 16.  who changing the voyage, marches to Constantinople, takes the City, and confines Anastasius (whom he overthrew in battle) to a Monastery: but not long after being expulsed by Leo Lieutenant of his forces, 
Leo Conon, 717. an. 24. m. 2. d. 25.  he also betakes himself to a Monastical life. About this time which was in the year of Grace 717. the Moors with their whole powers break into Spain, and subdue it, Roderick being then King of the Hispaines, whom the Goths had elected. The Saracens in Leo's reign, having overrun Thrace, besiege Constantinople both by sea and land for three year's space; but at length (being well nigh destroyed by the plague) were constrained to retire home. This Leo was a mortal adversary to Gregory the II. Bishop of Rome: and charged his Vicar or Exarch in Italy, by all means to cut him off: but the Lombard's defended the Pope, not for any love they bore him, but to the end, that by these dissensions, they might enlarge their own Territories. For upon this occasion they surprised many towns belonging to the Exarchie-Certaine of this Gregory's Epistles to the Clergy and Laity of Thuringia, 
d A part of Saxony, where the City Erford stands.  are extant, whereby he admonishes them more and more to increase in the knowledge of God: as also to the Saxons sharply deterring them from worshipping of Idols, in which employment he used one 
e An Englishman borne in Devonshire.  Boniface his help, whom he had sent into Germany.  
The Emperor Leo throws all statues & Images of Saints, out of Churches, and enioynes the Pope also to do the like: but he not only disobeyes, but also denounces sharp punishment against him persevering in his purpose. 
Constantine the V 741. an. 35. m. 1. d. 27.  To Leo, his son Constantine of that name the V succeeded, surnamed Copronymos, of the same Religion with his father. He, setting forth with a great Navy against the Saracens, for recovery of Alexandria in Egypt. understanding by a messenger of the insurrections hatched at home, and of Artabastus the new elected Emperor retires to Constantinople, takes the City by force, and puts out Artabastus his eyes. He also, as his father Leo, lived in vehement discord with Gregory the III. Bishop of Rome, who forthwith sending his Nuntios, excommunicates him: and they being cast in prison, he made a decree in the Council thereupon assembled: That, whosoever should hereafter demolish the Images of Saints, or contumeliously abuse them, should be utterly excluded from the Communion of the Church: after this, with all diligence and endeavour he erected Images in diverse Churches, and as fare as he could, sumptuously adorned them.  
After Gregory the III. Zacharias succeeded. An Epistle of his is extant to one Boniface a Bishop in Germany; the same man, as it appears, whose help Gregory the II. used, as a little above mentioned. Zacharias satisfied his requests and permitted Bishoprics at Merburgh, Bamberg, and Erphord; and also gave him leave to go to Charlemagne, Charles Martel his son, who was desirous to have a Council held in some City of the French Kingdom: and that he might diligently reform the abuses of the Church, but most especially remove adulterers, and those that had many wives from the order of Priesthood: for sithence after the undertaking of the holy Ministry, they ought not to have or touch so much as one wife, much less at one and the same time, they should have more, for Paul's words, that a Bishop should be the husband of one wife, is to be understood not of the time present, but past, to wit, that he who desires to be admitted into the ministerial function, should have no more wives than one. To this Epistle Charlemaine's Edict (who styles himself Duke of the French) is annexed: wherein he ordains that a Council should be held every year in his presence: and commands that adulterous Priests, and whoremongers should be removed out of their places: and likewise prohibits them from hunting and hawking, and charges them not to maintain any whore at home: but concerning wives not a word.  
From this time Aistulphus King of the Lombard's required a tribute from the Romans, sharply menacing them in case of nonpayment. Stephen the II. of that name, than Bishop of Rome, seeing he could not stop his mouth neither with flatteries nor rewards sues to Constantine the Emperor for aid, but no help coming from him, he solicits Pippin, lately (as we below shall mention) made king of the French; to lend him his hand. He marching with an Army into Italy besieges Pavia, and compels Aistulphus to come to composition, but the Enemy, after Pipins return home, grown more keen, again takes arms: whereupon Pipin, again solicited, marches into Italy; then at length Aistulphus surrenders the exarchy to Pippin, in which Country those Cities are of chief account, Ravenna, Faventia, Caesena, Forli, Forlimpopoli, Bologna, Reggio, Parma, and Placentia.  
It is written that Pippin delivered all this Country into the Pope's hands, though the Emperor first required him to restore them to him, as belonging to the Empire, not to the Church of Rome.  
To Constantine, 
●●o the IIII 775. an. 4. m. 11. d. 26.  his son Leo the FOUR succeeded: He undertook one only expedition into 
f Against the Sarazeni.  Syria, where discomfited, he retires home, and not long after died, of the same religion with his father, leaving behind him his son Constantine the VI who by reason of his nonage, not of ability to reign, his mother Irene governed the Commonwealth, but he, waxed warmer in 
g 20 years of age.  years, deposing his mother, took the Empire upon himself, with no less insolency than cruelty: whereupon certain conspiracies being practised against him: he set a mulct, amongst others, upon his uncle Nicephorus, and put out his eyes. And at length he himself by the means of his mother, was served with the same sauce, within a while after dying of grief; and thereupon the sway of government returned into her hands. 
Irene the Empress 797. an. 4.  Who afterwards in the fourth year of her Empire was deposed and sent into exile, Nicephorus whom we before mentioned, was her successor.  
In the mean time whilst matters were thus tumultuously carried at Constantinople, the name of Charles King of the French, grew famous. For he having finished the war in Aquitania, at the request of Adrian Bishop of Rome, marches into Italy, and as his Father Pipin repressed Aistulphus King of the Lombard's, as abovesaid: so he, after a long siege took Desiderius, Aistulphus his successor, a heavy foe to Italy, and Adrian the I. As also excluded his son Adalgisius out of the Kingdom, and chased him quite out of Italy. For the Emperors of Rome, by reason of their fare remote absence (I mean at Constantinople) ever since Constantine the Great, and being likewise hindered, not only with foreign wars, but also with civil & domestical dissensions, in a manner neglected Italy, or at leastwise could not conveniently protect it, especially the Lombard's reigning there: Furthermore, most of them also, being at deadly dissension with the Bishops of Rome, as we have formerly specified, out of their hatred towards them, were not moved at this prosperous estate of the Lombard's. For this cause the Popes provided foreign defence, and because no house was in those times, of more renown and puissance, then that of the French Kings, in regard of the greatness of their noble exploits, to them they fly, as to a harbour in time of trouble. And after this manner, Adrian dying, Leo the third, who succeeded him, having many adversaries at Rome, 
Charles the Great, 801. an. 13. m. 1. d 4.  sued to Charles, Pipins' son: who, at his fourth accession to the City, was by the Pope and all the people proclaimed Emperor, which happened at the same time, when nought but factions swarmed at Constantinople, insomuch as the very time itself, and state of the Commonwealth, seemed to administer the cause and occasion of this change.  
Thus therefore the Empire of the West, came to the Germans: for without all doubt, Pipin and Charles were Germans. This was in the eight hundred and first year after Christ's birth.  
Now, 
Nicephorus was overcome and slaineby the Bulgars, and his scull made a drinking bowl by Crumnus King of the Bulgars.  after Nicephorus, the Emperors of the East were tossed with continual wars; for at first, the Bulgars often encountered them, than the Saracens issuing out of Africa, took the I'll of Candie, as afterwards Sicily, and made havoc in Asia fare and wide: and last of all the Turks, a people of Scythia.  
The Emperors of Greece, from Nicephorus to Constantine Palaeologus the last, are reckoned to 50, some whereof were women: but most of those were slothful. And in Constantine Monomachus his reign, the Turks from a base original, by degrees getting ground more and more, began to waste Asia, and daily increasing their power, at length made up a Monarchy, but no new or fifth one, but sprouted out of that part of the Roman Empire, lying in the East. 
Ottoman first Monarch of the Turks, an. 1300.  Of which Monarchy, Ottoman was the head, about the year of Christ, 1300.  
Afterwards, Mahomet of that name the second, great Grandfather to Solyman, who now sways the Empire, taking Constantinople, & putting Constantine Palaeologus the Emperor before mentioned, together with his whole family, to the sword, utterly extinguished the n●me, and succession of Emperors of our Religion, in those parts. And the Turks to this day hold Asia, Syria, Egypt, Mesopotamia, judea, the Rhodes, all Greece, Thracia, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Illyricum, both the Mysia's, and of late, almost the other part of Hungary, and some part of Africa.  
In former times, the Churches of jerusalem, Antioch, Constantinople, and Rome, contended amongst themselves for primacy, but especially the two last, as we formerly shown: but the Turk ended that controversy, and set such a confusion in those 
h Hierus, Antioch, Constantinople.  three places, that there is not a tract remaining of a Church or Christian Congregation: and the matter itself shows, of what colour the face, and what the state is of that 
i Rome.  Church now remaining, which now (those 
* Aemulis.  rivals or eyesores being removed) alone triumphs.  
Therefore having shown after what manner the other part of the Roman Empires body, lying in the East, utterly decayed and fell into the hands of strangers: it remains that we should also briefly unfold, how that part in the west, quite perished, and found new Lords. But here by the way, let us consider, after what a wonderful kind of mockery of fortune, that majestical glory and sublimity of the Empire, was from those Romans and ancient families, brought into the hands of strangers, and some of them of base degrees: some being Spaniards, others originally of Pannonia, Dacia, Dardania, Dalmatia, Gallia, Thrace, Cappadocia.  
But chief it is worth observance, how doubtful and miserable the estate of these Emperors was: for their dignity and safety consisted not in the power of the Senate, or people, but of the Legions and soldiers: so that it may stand for a great wonder, that any would undertake this charge so dangerous and obvious to injuries: For from Caius Caesar, (who was murdered in the face of the Senate) till Charles the Great, about thirty of them were slain, four whereof killed themselves: always something was wanting in them, which the soldiers desired, who could abide the good no more than the wicked: but upon the least occasion, raising a tumult, cut off those, whom sometimes they had drawn up to that height of honour against their wills, as for example, it was Aelius Pertinax his case. The Senate stood in fear of the Emperor, but the Emperor himself was swayed by the will, and in a manner, the beck of the rascal soldiers. And this presumption they took upon them after Caius Caesar's death, especially those veterane bands, which he had employed in Gallia, Hispaine, and Africa.  
Hereupon Cicero deploring this: Courageous they are indeed, saith he, but in regard of the memory of those exploits, which they achieved for the liberty of the Romans, and the dignity of the Commonwealth too fierce, and recall all our Council to their violence.  
The end of the second Book.   

JOHN SLEIDAN of the four chief Monarchies. OR, The key of History.  
The third Book.  
BEfore we speak of Charles the Great, (to whom I told you the Empire of the West was befallen) some thing must be unfolded concerning the Germans, from whom he derives his original. And first of all it is manifest, beyond all doubt, that the Germans very oft passed over the Rhyne, and entered the Gallia's, there to seat themselves in regard of the goodness of the soil. For the Teuthons' broke into the Province of Gallia, and were put to flight by Caius Marius the Consul. Afterwards the Aruernes and Heduys quarrelling about principality, the Germans (hired with pay from the Aruernes and Sequans) marched thither at first indeed but with indifferent forces, but increasing by degrees, in Arcovistus their King's reign, possessed a good part of the country: but them Caius Caesar overthrew it battle: and some years after, when he made war against the 
k Inhabiting L●ke beyond Brabant.  Eburons, a people of Gallia Belgica, the Germans again march over the Rhyne, with intent to beat back the Roman Army, but were by him discomfited, at the meeting of the Ri●er Maze and the Rhyne. Many years following, they contained themselves within their own bounds, because the Roman Emperors held them in play by wars: yet as oft as they could lay hold on fitting opportunity, slacked not their own commodity, but continually wasted Gallia. After this manner, Gallienus being Emperor, one no less careless than voluptuous, they made an inroade, and by little and little, sprung up to that potency, that the Emperor Probus had much ado to repel them. julianus also, Constantius his Lieutenant, made war against them. Afterwards, when Honorius was Emperor, the Goths broke into Gallia, to whom the Emperor (detained by sundry wars) granted the Country of Aquitania to inhabit. On the other side, the 
l Of Frankenlandt, than Franconia in Germany.  French-Germanes, making their way through 
m Holland.  Belgia, vanquishing the 
n In and about Triers  Trevires, 
o Of juliers or Gulicke.  Menapians, Eburons, 
p Part in Flanders, part in Picardy.  Morines, 
q Of Turnay.  Neruians, 
r of Picardy. The beginning of the French Kingdom in Gallia, about 421.  Amtians, 
s of Picardy. The beginning of the French Kingdom in Gallia, about 421.  Bellovacans, 
t of Picardy. The beginning of the French Kingdom in Gallia, about 421.  Soissons, seated themselves in that part of Gallia, which retains their name, and is called France, in which Country, Paris is the chief City, and not fare from thence stands San-Denis, afterwards consecrated for the Sepulture of the Kings of France to this day. After this manner enlarged, having formerly possession of a good part of Germany, even all the Country betwixt the River Maine, and the Rhyne: they easily repelled not only offered hostility, but also made war upon others. Besides, the Roman Empire in Asia and Africa, daily more and more sliding away, and the Lombard's wasting Italy, they almost extended their dominions quite through Gallia: and after many of their Kings had reigned there in successive course, at length the Crown came to Pippin also, and to his son Charles. Charles Martel Pipins' Father, who was not king himself, but only one of the Nobles and Governor of the Palace, or as they are commonly called, Majors of the house: vanquished the Bavarians, and Suevians. For as the writers of the French Annals deliver it, the Kings there, for some years together, had nothing at all besides their title, the principality of government belonging to the Governor of the King's house. For those Kings degenerated from the worth of their Predecessors, and gave themselves over to pleasure, rejecting the care of the Commonwealth: whereupon the Governor of the Palace bore all sway, and by how much greater the king's negligence was, so much more he augmented his authority. At length upon this occasion, Pipin who was Governor in Childrickes reign, (when the cause, as they say, came to canvasing before Pope Zacharie) got the Kingdom. Hereof is mention made in that decree which they name Gratians, to wit, that it is lawful for the Pope to deprive Kings of their principality: but the title and inscription of that place is false, seeing there were two Anastatio'● Emperors, and it cannot be referred to either of them; for the former reigned about 200. and the other, 37. years, before this happened: as also there was no Pope Gelasius in the later Emperors time.  
I thought good to add this for the Readers advertizement, that they may wisely and warily peruse the Papal records: for it is not one place alone which discovers this to be their prime practice, so to fasten an opinion of antiquity upon their laws, that they may carry the more weight and authority.  
Pipin, (besides his repression of the Lombard's in Italy, at the Pope's request, as before mentioned) commenced war also against the Saxons, and afterwards against the Aquitanians, whose Chieferaine he took and put to death: not long after, departing his life, they forthwith rebelled, and King Charles his son with much difficulty and infinite toil, at length made an end of that double war. For he was in arms against the Saxons, full thirty three years; during which war, he made other also: Bavaria likewise with their Chieftain Tassilo, he brought under his subjection, and in two expeditions against the Lombard's, marching into Campania, subdued all Italy, and settled it with laws; and reduced into subjection those Cities of Gallia, lying upon the Ocean, which Caius Caesar calls Armorica, but now go under the name of little Britain, which refused any longer to pay yearly tribute to the Kings of France. In Hispaine also whither he made an expedition with an Army against the Saracens, victory attended him: but in his return upon the Pyrene Mountains, by a stratagem received a fore overthrow from the 
u Of Gascoigne.  Vascones, a people of Aquitane; notwithstanding at last, after eight years war, he overthrew the Huns, then in possession of Pannonia, and likewise by his Lieutenants composed Bohemia. And his last war was against the Danes or 
* For the Normans originally inhabited Norway.  Normans, then with a great Navy foraging the maritime coasts of Germany and France. By the achievement of those so famous exploits, he gained his surname, the Great. For, whereas before him, the French Kings only held that part of Germany, lying betwixt Saxony, and the River Danow, and betwixt the Rhyne, and the River Sala: to this he added Suevia, and Ba●arta; all Saxony, afterwards both the Pannonia's, Dacia, Istria, Ireland, and the midland Country of Dalmatia: whereas also the French Kings had only that part of Gallia, lying betwixt the Rhyne and the River Loire, betwixt the Ocean and the 
x Against the Lands o● Maiorq●e and Minuerque.  Balearique Sea: he added all Aquitania, all the top of the Pyrene mountains, to the River Iber, and (which should have been named first) all Italy from the Alps to the furthest part of Calabria. And this done, he sets forward to Rome the fourth time, where he was proclaimed Emperor Augustus, by Leo the Third, and all the people: after he had reigned thirty three years.  
Thus the Roman Empire in the West, rend almost into peece-meales, especially from that time when the Emperors made choice of Constantinople for their Court and seat (as appears out of that which we have before mentioned:) was by the Emperor Charles redintigrated, and as it were a new body, re-assumed beauty and feature, after so many and so great Provinces were reduced into one man's principality.  
Nicephorus the other Emperor in the East, was much displeased hereat, but Charles by his humanity and kindness, appeased him, and interchanging presents, both of them lived in amity: and the certain bounds of each Empire were set out.  
Besides other assemblies, he had a Council at Rheims, wherein amongst many others, one decree was, that Bishops should diligently peruse the holy Scriptures, and Preach the Word of God. There was a Council also held at Mentz the year before his death: and others, some years before, at Tours, chaalon's, and Arles, about reformation of the Church, as they deliver it, that lived in those times. Then constituting his son Lewis, heir of his kingdom and of the Empire, died at Aix, a town in Gallia Belgica, aged, seventy years, in the year after Christ's birth, eight hundred and fourteen, after he had been Emperor almost fourteen years, the first of any German advanced to that dignity. In his time, there were only one and twenty Metropolitan Cities, as they call them, throughout Italy, Germany, and France: as Rome, Ravenna, Milan, Friuly, Grado, Cullen, Mentz, Saltzburgh, Triers, Roan, Sens, Besanson, Lions, Rheims, Orleans, Vienna, Monstier, juerdun, Bordeaux, Tours, and Burges in Berry.  
Pipin his Father committed the Exarchat, taken from the Lombard's, into the Bishops of Rome's hands, as above said, which indeed is so delivered to memory, and it is reported that he directly gave it to them, but that very many call into question.  
Eginardus one very familiar with 
y Charles.  him, and his sworn Scribe, writes, that he more dear esteemed of that Church, which they call S. Peter in Rome, than any other, and that a great mass of gold, silver, and jewels, was transported thither, and very many gifts sent from him to the Popes: for herein he used extraordinary diligence, that by his means and procurement, the City of Rome might enjoy her ancient authority, and S. Peter's Church might not only remain safe and secured under his patronage, but also flourish in wealth above other Churches: Thus much only he writes, but of the donation of so many and such potent Cities, within the bounds of the Empire, not a word: nay, it is written, that after his fourth coming into Italy, when he was created Emperor, he ordered not only the public affairs, but also both ecclesiastical and private, concerning the Pope, the City of Rome, and all Italy. For when he was not yet Emperor, but only King of France, having vanquished Desiderius King of the Lombard's, as above said: he came to Rome, and had a Council, in which (as their books relate) Adrian the first together with the whole Council, granted him the right and power of electing the Pope, as also disposing of the sea Apostolic, as they term it, and confirming Bishops.  
Eginardus attributes to this Charles, many virtues worthy of a Prince, as, temperance, modesty, frugality, love to religion, learning, eloquence, and knowledge, not only of the Latin, but also of the Greek tongue: withal, his exceeding care and diligence in educating and nurturing up his children to the same course. He also, as it is written, founded the Academy of Paris, as well of his own accord, as also by the instigation of 
z Commonly called Alcoinus, an English man, so Bede and others.  Albinus his Tutor for learning of the arts, as Eginardus reports. He also gave German names to the twelve months, and to the winds, which they now use, whereas before that time, as the same writer relates, the French used partly Latin, partly barbarous names.  
And thus fare in Preface-wise touching the Germans, and the Emperor Charles: henceforward i'll briefly run over and show, after what manner this part of the Roman Empire in the West, hard and sharp restored and recollected by Charles: again decayed, which being divided, fell into many men's dominions, who held the same, as their proper right, not acknowledging the fountain from whence they flowed: Insomuch, as that Majestical and so much renowned sublimity of the Roman Empire, is nothing else at this day, than a certain slender shadow of a great body, after it was shrunk from such an huge mass, to Germany one only particle of Europe. Last of all, i'll briefly explain, how Daniel foretold this interchangeable course of Monarchies, and fall of the Roman Empire.  
Now Lewis, Charles his son, 
Lewis l. 814 an. 26. m. 14. d. 24.  another German Emperor, renewed amity with Leo Armenius, Emperor of Greece: and Pope Leo dying in the third year of his reign, his successor Stephen the FOUR coming into France, consecrated 
a Emperor.  him at Rheims To this Pope, Paschalis succeeded, who, (by reason the Emperor interposed not his authority) diligently and earnestly excusing the fact, alleged, that the Papacy was obtruded upon him, altogether against his will. The Papal books have it, that this Lewis the Emperor, confirmed to this Paschalis, and to the rest after him, both the possession of goods, and also permitted a free election, that whomsoever all the Romans should judge fit for that dignity, he should be accounted Pope. But I see not what credence can be given to such kind of writings as these: for they so jar amongst themselves, and are so patched together without all method, that it cannot be understood what should follow.  
Lewis had three sons, Lotharius whom he elected Colleague in the Empire and his Kingdom: Charles (who succeeded his deceased brother 
b In France  Pipin) he set over Aquitania: and Lewis over Bavaria. Upon a rebellion raised, 
The Emperor Lewis deposed by his own sons. an. 833.  he being taken by his sons, and deposed from his Kingdom, was confined to a Monastical life at Compeigne a town of the S●issons. The French Annual writer's report, that the ecclesiastical Prelates (whose haughtiness and riot he desired to restrain) convocating some assemblies at Aix, stirred up those broils against him, and provoked his sons to put in practice this so impious a fact. 
Restored the sixth month following.  But being set at liberty the sixth month following, to the great contentment of the people, he recovered his Kingdom and all more.  
Because the place serves, let us by the way, take a view of the many Nationall Synods held in France; for next after that beforementioned at Aix▪ there was another at Troy in Champagne: after that at Rheims, Tours, Digion, Paris, Lions, Vienna, Auinion, Vierron, Orleans, and many more in the same places, for when the affairs of the Commonwealth so required, the Kings themselves convocated aswell the States Ecclesiastical as others, for reforming of public enormities. In like manner Lewis the twelfth, at bitter enmity wi●h julius the second; assembled a Council of his own people at Tours and Lions, in the year of Grace, 1510. and 1511.  
Now to the purpose, 
Lotharius 840. an. 15. m. 3. d. 10.  Lewis dying was buried at Metz and Lotharius (than up in Arms against his brothers) succeeded; which war at length quenched, and a new division made, Germany fell to Lewis, and part of France, from the River Maze to the Rhyne: to Charles, France, from the British Ocean, and Pyrene Mountains to Maze: Lotharius (besides that he was Emperor) held Italy, and the Province of Narbon.  
To him his son Lewis the II. succeeded, 
Lewis II. 855. an. 19 m. 10.  who repressed the Saracens breaking into Italy. In his reign amongst others, Adrian the II. was Pope, created (as their books have it) contrary to the Emperor's assent, by the Roman Nobility, Citizens and Clergy as they call them. For although the Emperor's Deputies were in the City, yet were they not called to the Election: who taking it in ill and discontented part, received their answer, that it was not done in any contempt against the Emperor: but in caution for future times, lest that custom of expecting the Emperor's Deputies at the Pope's Creation, should grow up as necessary. They report that with this answer, they were not only well pleased, but also in reverence humbly saluted the Pope. Now here we may see a certain wonderful variety and inconstancy in their writings: for if Lewis the I. granted them a free election, as they boast, and as it is mentioned a little about, why did Lewis the II. his grandchild take this for an injury offered him? But howsoever the case stands, the title of that decree which is in Gratians Centons', is evidently false, for it is attributed to Gregory the FOUR whereas he departed his life, twenty and two years before Adrian the II. was made Pope. Did he write a history when he was dead of those things which happened afterwards?  
Nicholas the I. was the next before Adrian. A very long Epistle of his to Michael Emperor of Greece, concerning his power over all Churches: is extant. For Ignatius was removed from his Bishopric at Constantinople, and Photius placed, without the Bishop of Rome's consent: as also the Images were thrown down. He therefore with all the vehemency he could exclaimes against this. Many of his decrees also are extant full of Papal Majesty.  
Charles King of France, as abovesaid (notwithstanding his other elder brother Lewis the King of Germanies' resistance) marches in all haste into Italy, and is consecrated by john the eight Pope of Rome. In his second expedition into Italy at the Pope's request, 
Charles the Bald, 875. an, 2. m. 2.  for repression of the Saracens who had again invaded Campania: he died at 
c Poisoned by Zedechias a jew.  Mantua. His son Lewis surnamed the Stammerer was his successor, 
Lewis the Stammerer, 877. an. 2. m. 6. d. 5. Charles the Gross, 879. an. 8. m. 7.  but he reigned only two years. After him the government of the Empire came to Charles the Gross, son of Lewis King of Germany, who (his two brothers being dead) held all Germany, Italy, and France, and chased out the Saracens, who infested Italy: 
The Normans first coming into Normandy in France.  for a while also making war against the Normans, a people of Lower Germany, then annoying Belgia: at length granted them that part of France, which to this day retains their name. Next after him Arnulphus his brother's son was Emperor, 
Arnulphus 887. an. 12. m. 1. d. 19  a worthy Prince. He marching into Italy to set Pope Formosus at liberty from his adversaries: takes Rome, and took revenge upon the Authors of that sedition.  
In the time of his reign, the Huns being chased out of Scythia, break into Pannonia, and marching into Germany, (Lewis the III. Arnolphus his son being then Emperor) got a notable victory not far from the River Laech: and then ouerran Bavaria, Suevia, 
d In Germany betwixt Suevia and Hassia.  Francia, and Saxony, with bloodshed, robberies and fire.  
Arnolplus Emperor, a Council of two and twenty German Bishops, was held at Triburia sometimes a town upon the bank of the River Maine, where amongst many other, one decree was, That no man should sell a burying place for the dead, and that no Layman, as they call them, should be buried within the Church.  
About this time a mighty uproar, burst-forth throughout Italy: For Berengarius and certain other Nobles of Italy, loaden with multiplicity of favours from Charles the Bald, conspired against France, at what time Charles the Gross reigned: but their attempts there, proving frustrate, they bend their minds for Italy, which (by long and mutual conflict, as it is common) they harraze with merciless outrages. At length the victory falling to Berengarius, he got the Kingdom of Italy, where after he had taken Lewis the Emperor he put out his eyes, as histories relate. About this time also (that no parcel of calamity might be wanting) the Saracens, Africans, and Hungars, most outrageously overrun Italy.  
Thus whilst the state of most beautiful Religion, under the Berengarians, Hugo, Rudolphus, Lotharius, Albertus, and certain others, was so doleful and miserable, and Lewis the Emperor dying in the time of those broils; the Germans, but more especially the Saxons, and Francons, proclaim Otho Prince of the Saxons, and Thuringe Emperor, but he, strucken in years, persuades them to take Conradus Duke of Franconia, 
Conrade I. 911. an. 7. m. 6.  who being created Emperor, ordered all affairs according to Othoes' direction: and soon after Othoes' death, when he himself was very dangerously sick, calling together his prime Nobility, requested them to acknowledge Othoes' son Henry then absent, for Emperor. This was that Henry vulgarly called Henry the 
e Because of his great delight in haw●ing.  Falconer. 
Henry the Falconer, 919. an. 17.  Thus, we see after what manner the Imperial splendour and dignity, fell from the French, and Charles the Great his lineage, to the house of Saxony.  
These two Emperors, Conradus and Henry, were not consecrated, as they call it, by the Bishop of Rome, and for that cause are left out by many: moreover it is written, that this Henry neglected the Pope's offered ceremony of consecration, and that he should say, that he was content with the acceptance and suffrages of good men.  
Within a while after this, Arnolphus the Evil Duke of Bavaria, intended to bring about the sway of government into his own hands: whereupon forces being mustered up on both parts, when both the Armies stood in battle ray at Ratisbon, the Emperor calls him out to private parley, putting him in mind how he was created Emperor by the most part of the people of Germany, and dehorting him from ieoparding the lives of so many thousand men, most whereof were innocent and ignorant of the cause of the war: changed his intention, and so broke off the battle.  
In like manner Burchardas' Duke of Suenia, rebelled, but (shaken with the Emperor's puissance) came to composition.  
The Hungars again spoil Saxony: but after their chieftain was taken, make a nine year's truce. The Emperor after this, training up his subjects in feats of Arms, vanquishes the Dalmenincians, takes the City of Prague, together with Wenceslaus Duke of Bohemia, making that country tributary to him. In main battle he overthrew the Hungars then again (after the truce ended) breaking into Saxony: and distributed the tribute which the Saxons paid them, amongst the poor.  
He intended to have gone to Rome, 
Otho the Great, 936. an 36. m. 10 d. 6.  but hindered by sickness, constitutes his elder son Otho heir of the Empire. He commenced wars many years together against the Bohemians, then in rebellion: as also vanguisht and put to flight the Hungars, who then also striking over the Rhyne in the Vangions' Country, 
Of Wor●●bs.  had made an inroad into Franconia, with intent to march on from thence and pillage in Saxony. He brought Burgundy under his subjection, and afterward marching with a great Army into Italy, and vanquishing the Berengarians: there married his second wife Aditheida. Luitholdus his son hereat displeased, practices treachery against him, having Coadjutors every where in readiness to serve his plots, and amongst the rest Conradus Duke of Suevia his sister's husband. But his father besieging him at Ratisbon, he (first brought into distress) humbly craves and obtains pardon.  
After this the Hungars, having foraged France, break into Germany in greater multitudes then at any time before, and encamp themselves near Auspurgh, on that place, which takes name from the River Lych. The Emperor marching thither with the Saxons, Franks, Suevians, Bavarians, and Bohemians; after a doubtful and long battle put almost all the enemies forces to the sword, and caused some of their Chieftains to be hanged. Then returning into Saxony, after he had settled the affairs there, makes a new expedition into Italy: but before his journey constituted his son Otho Colleague in the Empire. At length arriving at Rome, he assembles a Council, where he sat Precedent, and deposed Pope john the XII. for his offences, in whose place he appointed Leo, of that name the VIII. A decree of his is extant inserted in the Papal Law, where he says, that he confers to Otho the Emperor and to his successors for ever, the authority of choosing Popes, disposing of the See Apostolic, and confirming of Bishops: as also pronounces a most severe punishment against those, who (not expecting the Emperor's approbation) consecrate Bishops. See here another Decree, contrary to some other before. After this there is the form of an oath added, by which (as they report) the Emperor Otho bound himself to Pope john, but it's not added who this Pope john was, nor of what number ●n name either this john or Otho were. And surely it is wonderful that matters of such importance and moment, should be so negligently put into writing.  
Now if Otho the I. took this oath, than this objection may hold against him. That whereas in this form , amongst other things, he swears not to procure any danger to the Pope's life, nor to abrogate his honour and dignity: but how can this appear, when as he, as we said before, removed john out of his place, and ordained another? Let him that can reconcile this.  
Otho, by reason of the new broils, marches again into Italy, where having settled the affairs, and returning home died about the beginning of May, and was buried at Maidenburg, in the year of Grace, 974. In regard of his noble exploits, and surpassing prowess, he's styled the Great.  
Henry D. of Bavaria, rebelled against Otho the II. 
Otho TWO, 973. an. 10. m 7. d. 2.  but the sword reduced him to his duty. Lotharius was then King of France, whose brother Charles was by the Emperor created Duke of Lorraine, under condition that he should be a 
* Beaesiciarius.  Leigeman of the Empire. Henry the Emperor (as the Annals report) got this Province from Charles the Simple King of France, and entailed it to his successors in order. But Lotharius displeased hereat, on a sudden levying an Army, speedily meets him at Aix, and had almost discomfited the Emperor before he was ware. The Emperor to revenge this affront, musters up forces, & marching on as far as Paris, at length (not without great bloodshed on both sides) concludes a peace, Returning home, and from thence making an expedition to Rome, he commenced war against the Greeks', who held Calabria and Apulia: where, after his Army was defeated, he was intercepted by Pirates, as he fled by sea, but not being known who he was, they dismissed him upon a sum of money paid in hand: and so returning to Rome, besieges Benevento with the remainder of his forces, taketh and sets fire on it. And not long after, wounded with a dart in a battle against the Greeks' and Saracens, departed his life, and was buried at Rome.  
To him his son Otho succeeded by consent of the Nobility, 
Otho I●I. 983. an. 17. m. 1. d. 21.  and was consecrated at Aix. He created one Bruno a German Pope, afterwards called Gregory the fift. But Crescentius a Consul of Rome, set up john Bishop of Placentia in opposition to him. The Emperor therefore coming to Rome inflicts a heavy and ignominious punishment upon Crescentius and his Complices, and caused john of that name the XVII. his eyes to be put out.  
The Emperor in regard of the perpetual dissensions about succession in the Empire, ordained with the Pope's help: That certain of the prime Nobility in Germany should be authorised with right and power of electing the Emperors: lest that any man hereafter should set upon that dignity as hereditary. 
The Electoral Princes of Germany, constituted 〈◊〉 the yo●● of Christ 1000  This Decree was made about a thousand years after Christ's birth.  
Robert then reigned in France, a Prince that loved peace and learning. The Annals extol him for building many Churches and amply endowing them, as also going in pilgrimage to Rome.  
This Emperor Otho granted to B●leslaus Duke of Polonia, regal dignity and immunity, 
The beginning of the kingdom of Polonia, 9 ●.  as their Annals have it. This therefore is the beginning of that Kingdom. Otho, after this, returning out of Italy 
g He was poisoned by a pair of gloves given him by Cresentius (aforesaid) his widow. Henry II. or the Loam, 1001 an. 23. m. 5. d. 16.  died. The next Emperor after him, was Henry, of that name the II. Duke of Bavaria, kinsman to Otho the great D. of Saxony, and Emperor. He, having settled a peace in Germany, and drawn on some of his adversaries into amity by his extraordinary kindness, and subdued other some: marched into Italy, there restoring Apulia to the Empire, which the Saracens had taken. Then, after his consecration by Benedict the VII. sending away his Army into Germany, He himself, taking his journey through the Sequans Country, came to an interview with Robert the French King, where a confirmation of amity was established on both sides. This Emperor was greatly loved of the Clergy, for he was very liberal towards them.  
After Henry's decease, when the Electoral Princes could not agree, there was an interreigne or vacancy a 
h For two years. Conradus to 24. an. 14. m. 10. d. 12.  while. At length Conradus Duke of Franconia succeeded. He enforced Stephen King of Hungary to conditions of peace. And having settled the affairs of Germany, makes speed into Italy, which was almost all ready to rebel; And at first he lays siege to Milan, then going to Rome, where consecrated by john the XVIII. he's proclaimed Augustus, with the people's acclamation. Then imposing a mulct upon those that attempted the innovation, he composed Italy, and returned into Germany. But new troubles again kindling in Italy, he marches thither and punishes the Authors of that Conspiracy, the Archbishop of Milan being one amongst the rest, neither desisted he till he had brought it all under his subjection. Having dispatched there, he returns home, and died at Vtrecht, a Town upon the frontiers of 
i Holland.  Batavia. His son Henry of that name the III. succeeded him, by consent of the Electoral Princes. He suppressed the Bohemians then rebelling, and made them tributary: re-inthronized Peter King of Hungary, once or twice deposed by his own subjects: and quieted the whole Country, though not without great loss of his own men.  
At this time happened an exceeding great vpr● a●e at Rome, for Three contended for the Papacy, and what they attempted was all by sinister practices: those were, Benedict the IX. Silvester the III. and Gregory the VI  
The Emperor hereupon marching thither, having after a siege, taken the City, he calls a Synod, and constitutes Suitgerus Bishop of Bamberg Pope: who changing his name, was called Clement the II. from whom, soon after the Pope received consecration.  
Then again the Citizens took oath not any ways to meddle with the Pope's Creation, without the Emperor's assent. Italy, thus set at peace again, soon after the Emperor's return into Germany, Pope Clement died, and was buried at Bambergh. The Emperor upon notice hereof creates Boppo Bishop of Frisingen, Pope.  
This was Damasus the II. who holding the place but 23 days, Leo the IX. Bishop of Tull, supplied the deceaseds place. A certain parcel of an Epistle of his is extant, wherein he says, it is not lawful for a Bishop, Priest or Deacon, to forsake his wife for Religion sake, but it is fit they should find her with such necessaries as belong to natural sustentation: notwithstanding, in case she use carnal copulation, it is not lawful: sithence Paul says, He had power aswell as the other Apostles, to lead about a wife; 
1 Cor. 9  which place he thus interprets. That the Apostles had their wives always with them for this intent, that they should be maintained, together with them, by those, whom their husbands instructed, in the Christian Religion and faith: and not that they should exercise the office of wedlock, or lie together: therefore Saint Paul thought fit to use the word lead about, and not lie with.  
In the year 1050, Leo going from Rome, assembled a Council of 42. Bishops, at Mentz, wherein the Emperor sare Precedent. He dying within three years after, Gebehardus Bishop of Aisten, by the Emperor's assent, succeeded him: this was Victor the II.  
The Emperor marching into Italy, after he had settled the affairs there, returns into Germany comes to treaty with Henry, the first of that name, King of France, dies in Saxony, and was buried at Spire, the Pope and many other Nobles being present at his death. He had a son called Henry, very 
k Seven years old. Henry IIII 1056. An. 49. m. 10. d. 3.  young, but was constituted Emperor a little before: notwithstanding, his Mother and the Bishop of Auspurge governed the Empire. Within a while after Pope Victor the II. dyes, after he had held the Papacy little above two years. To him, Frederick of the house of Lorraine, called Stephen the IX. succeeded. He also within few months after dying at Florence: One Benedict, of that name the X. by help of his friends, and without the Emperor's assent, sets upon the Papacy. The Romans liked not well of this prank, who, to acquit themselves, dispatching their Ambassador to the Emperor, proffer the same fidelity to him, which they had performed to his Father, and entreat him to constitute a lawful Pope; Benedict hereupon deprived, the Emperor gave them Gerhardus Bishop of Florence, this was Nicholas the II.  
The Princes of Germany grudged much, that the Commonwealth should be governed by a woman, the Emperors' mother, as above said: upon which occasion, a mean was invented to draw away her son from her: whereupon the Archbishop of Mentz and Cullen had the prime managing of all affairs: to them the Archbishop of Bremen, one in exceeding great favour with the young Prince, was now and then conjoined, who alone overruling him, disposes of Ecclesiastical promotions to himself and his friends, especially abbeys: and to keep the flame of envy lower, persuades the Emperor to confer them likewise upon other Princes. In the mean space, Nicholas the II. dies, in whose place the Emperor constitutes the Bishop of Parma: but having not at all acquainted the Senate of Rome herewith, and in that regard some troubles likely to ensue: Alexander the II. Bishop of Luca was elected. Betwixt those two, a sharp controversy followed, but Alexander having the longer sword, carried it.  
The Archbishop of Bremen only bearing all sway with the Emperor, incensed his fellow Bishops against him, by whom at length he was deprived: and though shortly after restored to his place, yet he long survived it not. And the Emperor, (necessity constraining him) sith all in a manner complained of the state of the Commonwealth: requested Anno Archbishop of Cullen, to undertake the Government. But he, seeing insolency and iniquity, bore great sway, excusing his age and sickliness, afterwards resigns up his office to him. This young Emperor now grown to two and twenty, being by nature prone to vice, began to increase his lasciviousness, and despising his wife Bertha, kept many Concubines. Then raising Castles all over Saxony, intended to bring them into servitude, and restrained not his officers, who used much excess and insolency.  
Hereupon the Saxons, as well the Nobility as Clergy, knitting a league, betook themselves to Arms, in vindication of their liberty: which, after much ado, and long intercession, they lay down again, he first satisfying their demands, and making a narrow escape by flight in the night time. Alexander the II. dying, the Roman Nobility, without the Emperor's assent, set up Hildebrand, called Gregory, of that name the VII.  
The Emperor upon notice hereof, expostulates with them by his Ambassadors, and withal admonishes the Pope to give him satisfaction herein. He makes answer, that he was drawn to it against his will, and when he never dreamt of it, and that he would not have been inaugurated before He, and the rest of the Princes of Germany had approved of his election. Thus he appeased the Emperor, and was afterward by his consent, confirmed. Then dispatching his Legates into Germany to certain Bishops, willed them to assemble in Council: but they refused it, alleging, that it was contrary to the custom and privilege of their Nation.  
This design miscarrying, He in some certain Counsels held in Italy, decrees, That Massing Priests shall have no wives but shall dismiss them, or else leave their places; sending this his decree to the Bishops in Germany, urges earnestly, under a penalty denounced, to have it established: but the Clergy, as they call them, and whole stream of Massingpriests, stiffly reclaim calling him an heretic, that propounds such doctrine; sithence Christ's words are, That all should not receive this word. 
Mat. 20.  And Paul saith, They that cannot contain let them marry: 
1 Cor. 7.  But this Pope not regarding Christ's word, and contemning Paul's authority, would constrain men, to reject the use of marriage, which is lawful and ordained by God: and to burn in most filthy flames of lust, and rush into manifest lewdness, but they would rather leave their Ministry then matrimony.  
He nevertheless, as before, sending his agents, pressing it on, and standing stiffly upon it, the Archbishop of Mentz began to hearken to him; who at first gently admonishes those in his inrisdiction, and afterwards assembling a Council at Erphord, would flatly enjoin them, but an uproar arising, he escaped death very narrowly.  
The Emperor in the mean time, to revenge the ignominy, received the precedent year, when, besieged by the Saxons, he wrought out his safety by flight in the night time: makes ready for war, and violating the league, which he had made the year before, musters up all the forces he could possibly make, and in the month of july, setting upon the Saxons (who by their frequent Ambassadors had, but in vain, solicited him for peace) discomfits them in many battles, not without great l●sse of his own men, no small number of the prime Nobility being then slain. Pursuing his victory, he harrazes their country fair and wide, and by his Ambassadors, exhorts them to yield: willing them to hope for all favour from his benignity: but that failed, though a certain few obeyed. Bucco Bishop of Halberstadt, and Otho Duke of Bavaria, banished by the Emperor, had the chief managing of this war.  
The Archbishop of Mentz again solicited by Gregory the VII. assembles another Council, and makes a new proposal about the Clergies not marrying: but was entertained in like manner as before, and stood in great hazard of his life, whereupon he thought it his best course, utterly to lay off this design.  
The Saxons thus put to flight, the Emperor dismisses his forces, and the auxiliary Princes: but upon condition, that they should again present themselves in arms before him, on the two and twentieth day of October following. When that day came, a great many appeared, and amongst them, many Bishops, but not so many in number as before. There again the Saxons send their Ambassadors for peace, in camping themselves at Northausen. The Emperor sends them answer, that one way to peace, was to yield themselves: so they, though seeming rather to do any thing then this, yet certain Princes (which were sent as Intercessors and Ambassadors from the Emperor) promising them very largely, that they should not thereby incur any endamagement either of liberty or goods: at length assented, and the Bishop of Maidenburgh, and Halberstadt, Otho Duke of Bavaria, Magnus' Duke of Saxony, and Frederick Count Palatine, yielded themselves into his hands: and likewise, soon after, many of the rest of the Nobility.  
The Emperor at first commits them to custody, not without favour: but afterwards flying from his promise, caused them to be carried into several places, how be it, not long after, he set Duke Otho not only at liberty, but also entreated him very familiarly, but for the rest, both kept them prisoners, and gave their goods for a prey to others. Then raising new Castles and Forts, wholly bends himself against the safety and liberty of the Saxons, and in his absence committed the whole charge of government to Otho Duke of Bavaria, by parentage descended from the Saxons. After this, he conftituted a Bishop at Bambergh, as also at Cullen, and an Abbot at Fulden. Now a little before this, he was accused to the Pope, and most especially for selling Ecclesiastical promotions. Whereupon the Pope, by his Legate, cities him to make his appearance at Rome, within a certain time, and to give his answer in the cause. But he calls a Synod of Bishops and Abbots at Wormbs: there it is decreed, that the Pope, for that he came to the Papacy by sinister means, should be deprived of his place, & forthwith publishes this at Rome, by his Ambassadors. 
Henry the FOUR excommunicated by Gregory the VII. alias Hildebrand an. 1076.  But the Pope not a whit moved hereat, both excommunicates him, and also more especially, the Bishops of Mentz, Vtrecht, and Bambergh, having formerly excommunicated certain of his familiar friends, by whose counsel he supposed him to have been drawn on to this practice. Furthermore, the Princes of Germany decpely offended at the Emperor's demeanour and disposition: especially for that, contrary to his promise, he persecuted the Saxons with so obstinate hatred, conspire against him, and so much the rather, because he was interdicted the Church. Whereupon they dismiss the surrendered prisoners, (the custody whereof was committed to them by the Emperor) judging them not to be tied to him in any bond of allegiance.  
At the same time certain Nobles in Saxony, stirring up, and drawing on others into their party, surprise those Castles every where raised, some by force and command, other some by dedition; and dismiss the Garrisons in safety, first binding them by oath, never after to bear Arms against Saxony.  
The Emperor upon notice hereof, in subtle policy, sets at liberty the rest of the imprisoned Princes, to the end that they, returning into Saxony, might do him faithful service in punishing the Rebels: for he saw there was no other means to bring about his wished success, with more facility, then by kindling factions amongst them, and renting one from another, but the event was not correspondent: for they, after their return home, well acquainted with his qualities, with joint minds & might resolved to fight for the common liehrtie; and Duke Otho also, forsaking him, did the like: yet the Emperor was full fraught with good hope, having broken through Bohemia, into the Country of Campania aided with Bohemian forces: but when he was certified of the Saxons conjunction, and their Army in readiness, despairing victory, retires.  
Then at length the Princes of Germany, appointing the day, met together in great abundance: thither also repairs the Pope's Legate, who unfolding the causes of the Emperor's excommunication, exhorted them to create another, which otherwise they were about to do of their own accord: for, making a rehearsal of his life, even from his tender years, they pronounced him to be the blemish, dishonour, and reproach of the Empire; and decreed, that (in regard he had afflicted the Commonwealth with most grievous calamities) he should be deprived of his government. He, brought into these straits, began to deprecate and entreat by his Ambassadors, when after much ado this condition was proposed. That he should stand to judgement, and subject himself to the Pope's cognizance, whom they would send for to Auspurge against the first day of February. That he should procure his absolution within a year after the date of the excommunication, wherein if he failed, the whole cause should fall: dismiss his forces: In the mean time live at Spire, as a private man, with a small train: not meddle in any public affairs, nor assume the 
k Bundles of rods used in ancient time to be carried before the Roman Consuls.  fasces, or Imperial Ornaments, till the controversy were lawfully decided. He accepts the conditions, and whilst he lived at Spire, bethought himself of going down into Italy, to work his mature peace with the Pope. Taking his journey together with his wife and little son, through Burgundy and Savoy, in a most sharp winter, not without extreme difficulty and danger of life: at length arrives in Italy, where he was kindly entertained, by the Nobles and Bishops of that Country, they thinking that he came thither, incensed with anger against the Pope. The Pope in the interim, at the request of the German Princes, began his journey, coming on some part, till he understood of the Emperor's arrival. Whereupon he stays to acquaint himself with the state of the cause. The Emperor forthwith sending a sumptuous Embassy, wherein were some gallant Ladies, amongst which, one was accounted somewhat too obsequious to the Pope: makes suit to the Pope for his absolution: at first he seemed very loath, and said he could do nothing therein, except the accusers were present: but after much ado, overcomed at length with entreaties, he refused not. Howbeit the Emperor before he came into the Pope's presence, stayed full three days in the lower rooms, court yard, and without the gates, where the Pope then was: being clad in mean and simple apparel, without any regal ornaments, bare foot, and fasting from morn to night. The fourth day having admittance, the Pope propounds to him these conditions: that he should stand to his judgement, answer the Princes their accusation, and if convicted, leave his Empire, and never afterwards attempt any revenge: in the mean time live as a private man, and not meddle in any public affairs, release his subjects from their loyalty and oath: remove from him his Councillors and familiars: in case he shall do any thing to the contrary, that benefit now granted him to become void, and the Princes to have free liberty, presently thereupon to choose them another. When the Emperor had approved of these conditions, the Pope says Mass, and to purge himself from all pretended crime, takes the unleavened bread, which they call the Lords Body, invocating fearful execrations upon his own head and estate, if all these troubles were not wrought by his adversaries: and then he exhorts the Emperor (if he thought the crimes objected against him by the Princes, were false, or any injury offered him) to do the like, and take the other part of the consecrated bread: but he excused himself, showing that he could not conveniently do it, and the Pope urged him no further, but entertained him with a banquet, and so courteously dismissed him. The Nobles of Italy understanding of those proceed, were vehemently vexed, that he should submit himself so basely and ignobly to him, who by most lewd practices had set upon the Papacy, who had polluted all places with bloodshed and adultery. In him (being the Patron of justice, the Altar and Bulwark of laws) they had grounded all their hopes, and had not only contemned the excommunication, but also for his sake affronted the Pope in bitter enmity: and now, for him, by this, directly the most dishonourable of examples, to brand the Empire to all posterity, with this so deep and indelible infamy, and come in favour again with him, the public enemy both to Church & Commonwealth. Thus, and much more after this manner they chafed, and were minded to elect the Emperor's little son, carry him to Rome, and depose the Pope.  
The Emperor herewith acquainted, saw no means likelier to pacify them, then by fleeing from the league, and joining with them; which fact quite confounded the Pope's plots, insomuch as he was enforced to break off his intended journey into Germany. And which was next to be done, by his Legates, signifies to the Princes of Germany; how matters stood, and withal exhorts them to have a care of the Commonwealth. This was in the year, 1077.  
They therefore create Rudolphus, Duke of Suevia, Emperor, whom the Archbishop of Mentz consecrates. But Henry returning into Germany, musters up forces: Rudolphus doth the like, who chief relied upon and from the Saxons; but in the third conflict receiving a deadly 
l His right hand was struck off in battle, and being brought to him, lying upon his death bed, he cried out, saying; This is the hand wherewith I confirmed my promised loyalty to the Emperor, etc.  wound, departed his life.  
Presently after this victory, the Emperor calls a Diet at Brescia: there a decree passed by the Bishops then present, as well Italians as Germans, that Gregory was not lawful Bishop of Rome: whereupon Victor the II. Archbishop of Ravenna, was appointed in his place: upon this decree the Emperor hastens to Rome, besieges Gregory, who at length escapes by flight: and then confirms Victor the II. by whom he is consecrated.  
Gregory the next Pope after him, dying, Vrbane the II. at Gergoie, a town of the Aruernes, vulgarly called Claremont, where there was a meeting of many Princes: persuades Philip, of that name the first, than King of France, to the Sarazen war: of which, afterwards, Godfrey. Duke of Boulogne, went Leader, who had much happy success, and recovered jerusalem. Paschal the II. Urbans successor, was troublesome also to the Emperor, who for that cause intending to go down into Italy, first assigns his son for his successor. But he, pricked forward by others, and forgetting that duty engrafted in us by nature, driven his Father into extreme distress; having the Pope and very many Princes of Germany, his Complices, both in council and in the fact. And hereupon he was created Emperor, of that name the V his Father afterwards dying miserably at Liege. 
Henry the V 1106. an. 18. m. 8. d. 16.   
Some few years after, he marches into Italy with a great Army, to make an end of the controversy, betwixt the Commonwealth of the Empire and the Papacy, and hewing out his way with his sword, at length, arrives at Rome.  
Now from Constantine's time, the Emperors had the collation of Ecclesiastical honours and dignities: but the Popes grown more wealthy, at length greatly repined hereat, as a thing unmeet; and from this fountain issued almost all the jars betwixt them. Now this Emperor standing upon his own right and power, a great tumult arose at Rome, in so much as the Emperor raised up in the night, was constrained to aid his own men, who fell by the sword, all the City over. But these factious persons once suppressed, he takes Paschal the II. and dismissed him not, till he had given him satisfaction by entering into a league: but after the Emperor was returned into Germany, the Pope flies off from the league, 
Henry the V excommunicated by Paschal the II. 1115.  whereto he had sworn in most sacred words, and excommunicates the Emperor, which stirred up many of the German Princes to rebellion, and amongst the rest, more especially the Archbishop of Mentz. The Emperor marching down into Italy, sends his Ambassadors to the Pope, about a peace. But whilst the matter was in hand, the Pope dies: To him, Gelasius the II. succeeds. The Emperor, for that he was not called to the election, marches to Rome, and sets up another. Gelasius thus deposed, excommunicates both him, as also the Pope by him constituted: and the Emperor in regard the Pope's Legates solicited the Germans to revolt, was constrained to retire home. But Gelasius dying in the interim, the Romans choose Calixtus the II. He thrust him out of his place, whom the Emperor in hatred to Gelasius, had created, and after much interession, compounds with the Emperor.  
To Henry the V Lotharius, 
Lotharus' II. 1125. an. 13. d. 18.  of the house of Saxony, of that name the II. succeeded. Him Conradus Duke of Suevia opposed, storming that the sway of government, was fall'n again into the Saxons hands: who marching into Italy, to settle himself in that Kingdom, (whilst Lotharius in the interim held Germany fast) destitute of aid, returned home, and made his peace with the Emperor.  
Innocent the II. was then Pope of Rome. Him Anacletus resisted: to whom, because he was descended from noble parentage, Innocent was forced to yield, but imploring the Emperor's aid, was restored.  
The Emperor returns into Germany, where having se●led the affairs, he marches down again into Italy with a mighty Army, subdues some Cities then in rebellion, and amongst the rest Ancona and Spoleti, chased Roger King of Sicily out of Apulia and Campania, and (as fame speaks of him) scarce any Emperor since Charles the Great, archieued more worthy exploits throughout Italy. It is written that then also, the civil law which as we mentioned, was collected by justinian the Emperor's command, having been borne down by storms of war, was brought to light again.  
Conradus D. of Suenia, succeeded him: 
Conradus III. 1139. an 12. m. 10. d. 15.  at what time Henry surnamed the Proud, was Duke of Bavaria, and by marriage with the Emperor Lotharius his daughter, Duke of Saxony also: who affecting the Empire, and plotting much mischief against the Emperor, was proscribed and his lands given to others. But Duke Henry, having recovered Saxony; as he was marching into Bavaria, died, leaving behind him his son: in favour of whom, the Saxons rose up in rebellion against the Emperor, and not so only, but Welpho also, brother to the deceased Duke Henry; by force of Arms challenged Bavaria, excluding Ludolphus, upon whom the Emperor had conferred that Province. A little above we mentioned how the Emperor expelled Roger King of Sicily: but whilst Germany was thus turmoiled, King Roger laying hold on the opportunity, invades Sicily, and chases out the Emperor's Deputy: and then spurs on Welpho with large promises to proceed and hold the Emperor in play: The King of Hungary too, took the same course, who also stood in fear of the Emperor.  
At length the Emperor marching out against the Saracens, lost his army, and returns home: from whence intending to go down into Italy, having all in readiness, died at Bamberg. 
m Commonly called Barbarossa. Frederick Barbarossa 1152. an. 38. m. 3. d. 7  Frederick Aenobarb or Redbeard, Duke of Sueiva, of that name the first, succeeded him, a man of heroic spirit. He in the beginning of his reign, made a peace among the Princes of Germany, and ended the controversy about Saxony and Bavaria, afterwards with a main Army, marches down into Italy: sets a mulct upon the Veronesses, who had contemned him: and for example sake hangs some of the chief upon gallows. He commanded a Court of Guard to be kept about him near Placentia, by all the Leige-Princes of the Empire: besieges Milan, races Asta, and lays Deitona level with the ground. Going to Rome is consecrated by Adrian the FOUR suppresses the rebellious Citizens, subverts Spoleti, and made a great slaughter: subdues the Lombard's, and having broken the snares laid for him by the Veronesses, returns into Germany, inflict an ignominious mulct upon the Prince Palatine, who in his absence had raised some commotions: 
The beginning of the Kingdom of Bohemia. about 1000.  and after that he made the Duke of Bohemia King.  
In the mean space the Milanese, practised many insolent outrages against their neighbours, and again reared up Deitona, demollshed by the Emperor: whereupon he, returning with a strong army, sacks Milan, by the aid of the Cremonesses, Pavians and Novarians. The City thus taken, the multitude, at the Princes of Germany their intercession (to whom they had petitioned) was spared. All Lombardy was reduced into his subjection: from hence (having settled the City with Laws) he removes to other people thereabouts. After his return they rebel, contemn the Laws by him established, and demolish the Forts by him raised: whereupon again marching thither; he harrazes the whole Country, and races all places within their Dominions.  
In the mean space, mortal conspiracies were in hatching against him all Italy over: in which Pope Adrian , was one: who, as soon as he had absolutely resolved to excommunicate him 
a Drinking of water wherein a fly were drowned.  died.  
The Emperor marching into Italy the third time utterly everts Milan, puts the Author of the rebellion to death, and compels the rest of the multitude to go into exile: then besieging the City of Rome, lost a great part of his Army by contagious sickness. For that cause raising his siege, and placing garrisons throughout Hetruria: setting over at Spoleti, Ancona, and Ravenna, such as he pleased should govern the Commonwealth, he returns into Germany.  
Pope Adrian dying, two contend for the Papacy, Victor and Alexander the III. the Emperor being absent, who indeed inclined more to Victor: but Alexander first excommunicates his Competitour, and afterwards (the dissension increasing) the 
b Afterwards when the Emperor came to him to Venice for his absolution, the Pope trod upon his neck, and caused that place in the Psalmist to be sung; Thou shalt tread upon the Asp and Basilisk, etc. The Emperor exclaiming that he did not this honour to him but to S. Peter, the Pope replied, To me and to Peter too.  Emperor also.  
The Milanese perceiving this occasion break into rebellion, and in many places in Italy expel the Emperors Deputies, hanging some of them upon gallows. The Emperor hereupon returning into Italy fought a hazardous battle with them. The Pope was Copartner in the war, who fled to Venice. At length when peace was concluded by truce, he makes an expedition into Asia, against the Enemies of the Christian Religion, where going into a River to wash himself, was by force of the stream overwhelmed and drowned.  
His son Henry, 
Henry VI 1190. an. 8. m. 2. d. 22.  of that name the VI was his successor. He (after William the son of Roger King of Sicily's death) having been twice in Italy, conquered Apulia, and Calabria, and taken Naples, subdues Sicily, placing strong garrisons there, in regard of the inconstant disposition of that Nation. Then he constitutes certain Nobles over Ravenna, and Ancona, and throughout Apulia and Hetruria: soon after, having assigned his son Frederick, as then an Infant, for his successor in the Empire: he went into Sicily by consent of the Princes of Germany, and there ended his 
n Falling into a burning fever by a poisoned potion, given him (as it was supposed) by his wife.  life. Frederick his son, being as aforesaid, in respect of his age, but a Child, all men in a manner deemed it fit to take his uncle Philip: but Innocent the III. Pope of Rome, most vehemently withstood that. Howbeit the Princes disagreeing in their choice, when some would create Philip, others Otho Duke of Saxony, a great uproar thereupon ensued, especially about the coast of the Rhyne: But Philip partly by force of Arms, partly by his exceeding humanity, drew on his adversaries into subjection, and forthwith made his peace with the Pope whom by experience he had found a bitter Enemy. Not long after, 
Otho FOUR 1208. an. 4.  he was murdered in his Chamber, and Otho Duke of Saxony beforementioned was his successor: who incurred the Pope's displeasure, (being formerly his most entire friend) and was at length excommunicated by him: whereupon a Diet assembled, the Electoral Princes solicited by the Pope to create another, call home out of Sicily, Frederick the King thereof, Henry the VI his son, to whom, (as a little above it is mentioned) they had given allegiance, being then an Infant. Him the Emperor Otho meets with an Army at the Rhyne to stop his passage, but was discomfited, and returning into Saxony, died, as it was supposed, of grief. 
Frederick the II. 1212. an. 11  And thus was Frederick made Emperor of that name the II. Grandchild to Frederick Aenobarb or Redbeard, by his son.  
Innocent the III. before spoken of, had a Council at Rome, called the Laterane, there amongst others, those decrees passed.  
That the Chrism and Eucharist, which they call the Host, should be kept under Lock and Key.  
That a private confession of sins should be made once every year.  
That an election made by the civil Magistrate, in spiritual promotions, should be of no force.  
That those of Ecclesiastical Order should not, without cause, promise fealty to those that are called Laymen.  
That the Laws made by Princes should not prejudice Churches.  
That Ecclesiastical persons should be exempted from all contribution.  
That Tribute should not be paid before Tenths.  
That the Relics of Saints, should not be shown forth of a Casket.  
About these Decrees there followed a great dissension, betwixt the Greeks' and Latins. for the Greeks' would not touch those Altars whereon the Latins had offered up the Host, till they had washed and expiated them, as also of a new baptised those whom the Latins had baptised. Hereupon it was decreed that they should return to their mother Church of Rome, whereby there might be one Fold, and one Shepherd: in case they obeyed not, to be (after excommunication) degraded from their Order.  
The Emperor goes to Rome, and is consecrated by Honorius the third. He subdued those Rebels, which were spread all over Italy, and proscribes some of them. Many whereof fled to Rome, and implored the Pope's aid. This gave occaon of great discord, for the Emperor took it most heinously that his adversaries should have their harbour and habitation there. The rancour raging hotter, He by consent of the Princes, assigns his son Henry his successor in the Empire; and summons the Princes to a Diet at Cremona: but being hindered entrance there, by the Pope, and the Lombard's factions, returns into Apulia: and within a while after the Pope dies, to whom Gregory the IX. 
Frederick the II. excommunicated by Gregory the IX. three times.  succeeds, who excommunicates the Emperor for not performing his expedition against the Turks, whereto he had bound himself by vow.  
The Emperor deprecating this offence and purging himself; when nothing could prevail, he marches to Rome, deposes the Pope and inflicts a heavy mulct upon his Complices: then calling another Diet at Ravenna; is hindered by the fugitive Pope, who had stirred up enemies against him in every place. At length the Emperor, after his wife was dead, that he might perform his promise, and provide for the Commonwealth, sets forward on his expedition into Asia: But the Pope whilst he was absent, makes war, and seizes upon Apulia. The Emperor having good success, recovering many places, and amongst the rest Jerusalem: being certified of the state of Italy, concluding a ten year's truce with the enemy, returns with his Army, and recovers his own Countries. The Pope fortifies himself by a new league, with these Nobles of Italy, on whom the Emperor had set a mulct, and then again excommunicates him for entering into truce with the enemy. The Emperor loving quietness, by his Ambassadors treats for peace, which with much a do he obtained, and so he returned into Germany. But the Pope not able to leave his old guise, dismantling Viterbo, again excommunicates the Emperor, who hereat incensed beyond measure, posts into Italy, in raging and wrathful manner, and punishes all the Rebels throughout Hetruria, Vmbria, Lombardy, and the Country bordering upon Po: whereupon the Pope ingeminates his excommunication, and conjoines in league with the Venetians. The Emperor coasting through Italy, having in a manner reduced it all into his subjection, lays siege to Rome, and not long after, Pope Gregory dies, having first summoned a Council of his own adherents, at Ravenna, whither notwithstanding they could not have access, all passages being blocked up by the Emperor, insomuch as certain of them were taken.  
This was the Pope that patched together the Decretal Epistles, as they call them, which are a great part of the Pontificial Law, loaden with multiplicity of Commentaries: wherein it may seem wonderful, that such men there should be that will take so much pains as to adhere to those, not only inconvenient, trivial, foolish, but also ridiculous works, as fast as if they were a kind of Oracle: and spend all their labour and time in interpreting, explaining and garnishing them: as though they were hired to that end, to defend other men's folly and error, with their best vigilancy and industry, and to lose the reputation of their own modesty, in other men's impudence. That decree, which goes under Gratians name, in diverse places, amongst other passages, hath these:  
The Rule of the Church of Rome, which is the blessed Apostle S. Peter's seat: must be followed.  
It is not lawful to hold a Council without permission of the Bishop of Rome.  
The Laws of the Church Rome, are to be observed, as pronounced by Peter's own mouth.  
What yoke the Church of Rome imposes, though it be not tolerable, it must be endured.  
The Ministers of the Church ought to vow chastity, that is, they should not marry.  
It is lawful for him, that hath not a wife, to have a Concubine.  
If the Pope be negligent and remiss in his office, he may hurt indeed, aswell himself as others: notwithstanding he cannot be judged by any man, because he himself is to judge all men.  
The Emperor ought to be ruled by, and not rule over the Pope.  
All mortal men beside, may be judged by men, but the Pope, Peter's successor by God alone.  
It is lawful for the Pope to release subjects, from their loyalty and oath, whereby they are bound to their Prince.  
In Gregory's Decretal Epistles, and in Boniface his sixth book of decretals, the Clementines, and Extravagants as they call them: it is set down there amongst other things; That the Pope's authority is not subject to the Decrees of Counsels.  
It belongs to the Pope to approve of the elected Emperor, or to reject him, if he be not fit.  
There are two great lights which govern the world, the Sun and the Moon: The Pope is in stead of the Sun, and the Emperor, of the Moon. Bishop's may deal more mildly with those, that have offended by adultery, and other such crimes, as being of lower nature.  
The Pope only, hath cognizance concerning the privileges of the Church of Rome.  
The bones of excommunicate persons already buried, aught to be digged up and thrown away.  
The Pope may depose the Emperor from his place and Magistracy.  
The Emperor is bound to perform allegiance and fealty to the Pope, by oath.  
It is just, that Ecclesiastical persons, should be exempt and free from all cost, molestation and charge.  
A man may be declared an Heretic after his death, and his goods be confiscated.  
The sons of heretics ought not to be admitted to any place of government either civil or ecclesiastical.  
It is necessary to salvation, that all men be subject to the Pope of Rome.  
Those few places only are drawn out of an immense heap: and what kind of stuff they are, there's no man that is well in his wits, but may perceive.  
The Law is, that men of deepest learning should define the same. Sovereign reason is grafted in Nature, which commands those things that are to be done, and forbids those that are contrary. And all laws ought to have reference to the common good. And the Lawmaker ought to have the like affection towards the people and Commonwealth, that the father hath towards his own Children: but what likelihood hereof is there in any the beforementioned places? but for them, not only to excuse those fopperies, but also to garnish, adorn, and illustrate them, with new Commentaries, and rather to babble out any thing, then suffer their dignity to be impeached, I pray you what gross impudency is this? but breasting no deeper.  
If pride, avarice, ambition of bearing rule, and ignorance of learning drew them on, to make such decrees: if they themselves vary in opinions, nor will one be tied to another's laws, because endued with equality of power: pray thee, why dost thou macerate thyself in straightening those crooked and contrarizing decrees? I omit that Ocean, or rather sink, I mean that part of the Papal law, containing the sale of benefices as they call them, and consecrated goods: for who is able to reckon up their deceits and collusions? no not they themselves, that have been factors many years together in this kind of traffic, do sufficiently understand and know all the tricks: when new ones are daily invented. But this argument requires both another time, and a book of purpose: now therefore let us return to our purpose.  
As Frederick the Emperor, so also Lewis the IX. King of France invaded Syria and Egypt with an Army, who afterwards 
o Of the plague.  died at the siege of 
p In Africa, where formerly (as some say) Carthage stood.  Tunis City, in the year of Grace, 1270.  
In his reign, William Bishop of Paris raised a question about Ecclesiastical Benefices: which cause being publicly discussed, his opinion took place, that it was not lawful for any man to hold more than one; but it is sufficient to have spoken only, and writ down such decrees as those.  
To Gregory, Innocent the IIII succeeded, upon whom, as it were by hereditary succession, the Emperor's displeasure fell. Whereupon calling a Council at Lions, he summons the Emperor, excommunicates him for not appearing, deprives him of his dignity, exhorting the Princes of Germany, to choose another, and this his decree (which amongst others is in private) as also certain of the Emperor's Epistles, to several Kings are extant, wherein he demonstrates at large, the Pope's iniquity, and his own innocence.  
The Emperor was minded to go to Lions, and try his fortunes: but a new rebellion breaking forth throughout Italy, turns all his forces that way: where, good success failing him, he returning into Puel, began to languish, and at length died. Some say he was poisoned, others, strangled by his bastard son Manfred, who afterwards invaded Italy.  
At that time lived the famous Lawyer, Azo, after whom, the whole stream of Writers followed; who violating that sharp and severe edict of the Emperor 
q Commanding his Code only (into which as abovesaid the whole law was contracied) to be bserued.  justinian, filled the world with an innumerable company of Books; from whence we must now seek those points, which those Ancients handled most copiously and learnedly. For one man compiles another's works, so that there is no end or measure of writing: and all overflows in contrary opinions, in so much as the old man's saying may properly take place here; who having asked three Lawyers their advice; you have done bravely, saith he; I am a great deal further to seek then before. I omit the quiddities which are daily devised in abundance; for the Comedians saying falls right here; that craft starts one mischief in the neck of another. Cicero complains, that many worthy ordinances were settled by laws, but those for the most part were corrupted and depraved by Lawyers inventions. What if he were now living, and saw those Pyramids of books, and our modern practice, and that sacred repository of the laws, thus filthily polluted, & miserably contaminated? Howbeit, as God indeed hath within our memory, brought all other Arts to light again, so hath he raised up many men, who being furnished with the help of good learning think those pains taken in this behalf, not to be repent of, being to restore this subject most beautiful, and altogether necessary for the society of mankind; yea, this gift, even heavenly, drawn out and conveyed from the mid-fountaines of Philosophy, to it's former splendour and equity; which their endeavours merit not only public commendation, but also remuneration.  
After his death, there was a vacancy for almost 22. years: 
A vacancy in the Empire for the space of 22. years after Frederick the II. his decease.  first one, than another being elected, who notwithstanding, held not the sway of government in those troublesome times. In the mean time the Kingdom of Naples fell from the Emperor frederic house into the hands of the French, and afterwards Sicily also. For the Popes relied upon the French power, though soon after most cruel wars ensued about those Kingdoms betwixt the house of Arragon, and the house of Angiers in France, but that appertains not to this place.  
When the Commonwealth had floated in this state, as aforesaid, for so many years together, 
Rudolphus Habspurgh, 1273. an. 17. m. 9 d. 16.  Rudolphus Habspurgh is created Emperor. He in the beginning of his reign, appeased those commotions spread throughout Germany. And after some Diets ended, marches out against Ottacar King of Bohemia, then in rebellion, whom he enforced to conditions of peace, which he notwithstanding (by his wife's instigation) not long after, breaks, and marching the second time into Austria, is slain in battle. Ladislaus Cunus King of Hungary, aided the Emperor Rudolphus.  
At length a peace being concluded with the Bohemians by 
r jutta the Emperors daughter was married to Wencislaus King of Bohemia, Ottacars son.  marriage, the Emperor gave Austria, which the King of Bohemia had held many years together, to Albertus his son: and being hindered by diverse businesses in Germany, went not down into Italy, neither was he inclined much that way howsoever: for it is reported of him, that he would sometimes merrily tell a tale of the Fox that would not visit the Lion, lying counterfeitly sick in a certain den, because he was affrighted with the footsteps of other beasts, of which none had returned: notwithstanding he deputed a Governor in Italy, in manner of Vice-emperor; and as it is written, confirmed the often mentioned Country of Flaminiae, and the exarchy to the Church of Rome; when he saw very small commodity return to him from those parts: For the Emperors wearied with perpetual dissension and variance with the Popes, became more remiss: neither would the Popes ever be at quiet, till they had removed them forth of the Coasts of Italy: and therefore in a manner shelrring themselves under the wings of the French Kings, and fostering their factions by the Bishops of Germany, at length effected their own wished desires.  
But here by the way let us call to mind the interchangeable course of estates, when as they (who were secure, had their being, and held their place and dignity by favour of the Emperors) were enriched by their goods and liberalities, both arrogated dominion over them, and also defrauded them of their patrimony. For they keep to themselves, not only a good part of Italy, but have also strictly obliged the Kings of Sicily and Naples, to their party: which two kings, both pay them yearly tribute, and also are forbidden to undertake the imperial dignity without their permission: and when they receive possession from them, amongst other clauses, that is one part of their oath.  
That memorable massacre of the French, through out Sicily, happened in Rudolphus the Emperor's time. For they being in possession of that Country, where, after soldiers fashion, playing many insolent and outrageous pranks, were by secret conspiracy, after a sign given, all put to the sword, when the Bell rung to evening prayers. This Massacre is commonly called the Sicilian Vespers: 
The Sicilian Vespers, 1281.  which was committed upon Easter day, in the year 1281. Rudolphus upon a sum of money paid, enfranchised and set charge-free many Cities in Italy belonging to the Empire, as the Bononians, Florentines, Genoese, Lucan's, and others.  
After this, assembling the Princes at Frankford, he desired, but in vain, to have his son Albert assigned his successor. Rudolphus dying, 
Adolphus of Nassaw, 1292. an. 6. m 5. d. 7.  Adolphus, of the house of Nassaw succeeded, who not long after, began to pick quarrels with Albertus' Archduke of Austria: and moreover offending the Princes of Germany by his demeanour, as also the Archbishop of Mentz, by whose help he was made Emperor, is deposed, and Albertus' Archduke of Austria, Rudolphus his son, is elected: who, uniting his forces, having the Prince's aid, makes forward toward Adolphus, when giving him battle in the Bishopric of Spire, Adolphus being grievously wounded by Albertus, was soon after slain by the rest of the soldiers.  
After this victory, 
Albertus, 1298 an. 9 m 9 d. 5.  Albertus to confirm his own title, lest any might report that his former election was unjust, desired to be solemnly created Emperor; which done, Pope Boniface the VIII. reclaimed; denying to ratify what the rest of the Princes had done: but within a while after, when Philip the Fair, King of France, and he fell into bitter dissension: he approved of Albertus, and spoke much in praise of his progenitors. At length, Albertus was slain by his own kinsmen, as he was marching into Bohemia, having all in readiness, to intrude his son Frederick into that kingdom. This Pope Boniface added a sixth Book, to Gregory the IX. his decretal Epistles, which are contained in five Books. Amongst the rest, he made a decree, that it might be lawful for the Pope to dispossess himself of the Papacy; for is written, that he himself by sinister means, persuaded Celestine the V thereunto, whom he succeeded.  
After Albertus, Henry, 
Henry the VII. 1308. an. 4. m. 9  of that name the VII. of the house of Luxemburgh, is created Emperor. He, having by marriage made his son King of Bohemia, go down into Italy; the estate whereof was at that time most miserable. For ever since Frederick the II. his decease, about 57 years, the Emperor neglected Italy, which caused the sundry dilacerations thereof from them, by the greater Nobles, especially by the 
s Two Noble families in Suevia, which afterwards removed into Italy.  Guelphs and Gibelines, which two factions have many retainers in those parts.  
He therefore first of all constitutes Governors over the Cities, and free burroughs throughout Lombardie, and swore the inhabitants to his subjection: then resting a while at Milan, endeavouring, but all in vain, to reconcile the  factions: where when Turianus, Governor of the City, had complotted to assail him unawares: after discovery of the conspiracy, and suppression of his adversaries; he commits the government of the City to a Viscount. All the Cities in that Country yielded into his power and protection, only Brescia rebelled, the walls whereof (having after a long siege taken it) he demolished. Then marching through Genua, and so striking over to Pisa, arrived at Rome: and was crowned by some of the Cardinals, because Pope Clement the V having left the City, was removed into France, and kept his Court at Auinion.  
When the Cardinals required the oath of him, which they said was to be given to the Pope: he refused it, and would not have any such kind of oath, to be thereby bound to the Pope: upon notice hereof, the Pope, to enlarge his own power, expounded that general form of the oath at large, and annexed it to the rest of his decrees now extant. For he himself also preferred many laws, which retain their name from him, and are called the Clementines. 
The knights of the Temple suppressed about 1308.   
Now also those Knights called the Templars, being very puissant, were by the same violence put to death, and made away in diverse places. Philip the Fair, King of France, by the Pope's permission, seized upon a great part of their Revenues. Soon after, the name and memory of them was condemned: and by the French national Synod, at Vienna, their lands were given to those, called the Knights of the Rhodes. At this time also the University of Orleans was founded by King Philip, and Pope Clement's authority. After the Emperor Henry's 
t He was poisoned by a Monk with a cup of Wine in the Communion.  decease and burial at Pisa, being poisoned as it was strongly suspected: there followed most bitter contentions about the election: for Frederick Archduke of Austria the Emperor Albert's son, 
Lewis 1314 an. 32. m. 11. d. 24. Frederick of Austria opposeth him, and is elected Emperor also.  and Lewis Duke of Bavaria, were competitors for the Empire. The Archbishop of Mentz crowned Lewis at Aix: and the Archbishop of Cullen, Frederick at Bena: and Pope john the XXIII. proclaimed them both Emperors, but of the two was more inclined to Frederick, which proclamation increased the flame of discord. Forces being mustered upon both sides, a sharp battle was fought at Esling a town in Suevia, but in a manner with equal fortune: and soon after another in Bavaria with stronger forces, 
Frederick the other Emperor taken prisoner. 1323.  in which the Archduke Frederick was taken prisoner, losing a good part of his Army, afterwards he was see at liberty, and returning home, died within a few years after.  
Lewis the Emperor having thus compassed the Empire, marches down into Italy, in despite of the Pope, constitutes Governors over all the Cities & free-burroughes, and is crowned at Milan by the Archbishop there, from whence (having sent his Ambassadors to the Pope at Auinion, again and again, about his solemn inauguration, and there failing) he goes to Rome, after he had settled the affairs of Milan. At Rome he was entertained with exceeding great joy, and crowned by one or two of the Cardinals: but the Pope ingeminating his excommunication, he, by the advice of his Nobles, creates another Pope, and after this fashion continued these most deadly flames of hatred betwixt them, not without most scandalous criminations cast forth on both sides.  
The French Annall-writers report that Charles the Fair, King Philip's son, was the first that granted Pope john Tenths of Ecclesiastical goods in France, and shared the prey betwixt themselves, but the Pope's chief aim in procuring this, was to furnish himself with money against the Emperor.  
After the Emperor was returned into Germany, the Pope dies, and his successor Benedict the XII. both excommunicated and deprived him of his dignity. Whereupon the Emperor convening the Princes at Frankford in a solemn speech, complains of the Pope's injuries, explains the reasons of his allegiance, produces and declares the ancient laws of the Empire: withal showing, that the Bishop of Rome had nothing to do with the Commonwealth of the Empire: For he, who is elected by the Prince's consent, is truly Emperor, without any assent, consent or consecration from the Pope, all that being but a ceremony, which by little and little crept up, and now is grown too high, to the great dishonour and endamagement of the Empire.  
After this, Pope Benedict dying, Clement the VI succeeded, one fare more violent than any before him: who in vehement manner propounded certain ignominious conditions, upon refusal whereof, he grew a great deal more furious, sharply admonishing the Princes to choose another Emperor, within a certain time by him limited, which if they would not dae, he would take care that the Church should not want a Patron and Advocate any longer. Whilst the Commonwealth was thus tossed, the Emperor Lewis departed this life, and Charles King john his son, Henry the VII. his Nephew was elected King of Bohemia.  
A little before this, began the occasion of that cruel war betwixt the French and English, When Charles the Fair, King of France, dying without issue male, which was in the year, 1327. Edward king of England, of that name the III. being son to Isabel, King Charles his sister, challenged the Kingdom as due to him; but the Estates of France, which are called the Peers, set the crown upon Philip of Valeis, cousin german to the deceased King Charles: excluding not only King Edward the sister's son, but also King Charles his posthume daughter; alleging, that the inheritance of that kingdom did in no wise appertain to daughters: hereupon ensued that bloody war scarce yet quenched.  
The beginning of the Emperor Charles the FOUR 
Charles the FOUR 1346. an. 32. m. 7. d. 14.  his reign was troublesome, and the Imperial dignity was offered to Edward the third King of England: but he, as it was reported, refused it, being hindered by the French wars.  
After the quenching of sundry combustions in Germany, the Emperor Charles goes down into Italy, and by consent of Pope Innocent the VI then being in France, is crowned at Rome by some Cardinals, upon condition not to stay any longer, either at Rome, or in Italy. He returns to Milan, and granted the office of perpetual Vice-emperor for Lombardie, to the house of the Viscounts, who then bore great sway in Milan; in respect of which honour, they gave him an huge mass of money, and not they only, but others also upon whom he had bestowed any thing: which act much extenuated the Emperor's authority in that Country.  
After his return out of Italy, he summoned a Diet of the Princes, and there preferred that decree of the Empire, called the 
t Containing the laws and rites to be observed in the election of the Emp: as also the dignity and office of each Elector, and other Princes and Nobles.  Golden bull: lastly, he assigns his son Wenceslaus his successor in the Empire; which, as it is wri●ten, he procured with great difficulty, though with large rewards: and not long after died.  
In his reign, john King of France Philip of Valois his son, together with his youngest son Philip, afterwards Duke of Burgundy, surnamed the Stout, or the Bold; was, in pitched field, near Poitiers, taken prisoner by the English, who were then in possession of a good part of Aquitaine, and the City of Bordeaux. Many of the prime Nobility were slain in that battle. The Annall-Writers record, that the English were not above 7000. when the French made against them with many forces, about 60000 strong. This was in the year, 1356. the XII. of the Kalends of October. The King was carried prisoner into England, and died the feventh year after.  
Wencestaus being (as history speaks of him) both by nature and course of life, 
Wenceslaus, 1379 an. 2. m. 5. d. 28.  very vicious, quite neglected the Commonwealth. He for a sum of money, created john Galeas, of the house of the Viscounts, (a man both covetous and cruel) Duke of Milan and Lombardie.  
In his reign, jagello Duke of Lithuania or Luten, was, after King Lewis his death, created King of Polonia, by consent of the Nobles: This King was great Grandfather to Sigismond, the modern King there, and was the first that received Baptism, changing his name to Vladislaus.  
Sigismond King of Hungary was overthrown in battle at Nieopolis by Bajazet Emperor of the Turks, the third of the kalends of October. Charles the VI K. of France, sent a goodly troop of horse for aid into Hungary, under conduct of john, son of Philip the bold Duke of Burgundy, which john was taken in that battle, and carried prisoner to the Turk, where he stood at the next door to death, but yet escaped, which (as the French Writers relate) happened thus: There was a certain Physiognomer (one of that pack that profess to know the dispositions and natures of men, by their body, eyes, countenance and face) familiar with Bajazet; who viewing the prisoner, willed and persuaded the Emperor to dismiss him in safety. For he should be the man, that after his return home, should kindle a most violent combustion, which should set a good part, either of Europe, or of the Christian world, on fire. Upon this persuasion, the Turk dismisses him, and the rest of the Nobility, that were prisoners, after they had paid 20000. crowns for their ransom. After his return into France, he began to quarrel with Lewis Duke of Orleans, the King's brother. For he by reason of the King's sickness, which was in a manner desperate, desired to govern the Commonwealth, being nearest of kindred to the king. But the Duke of Burgundy, for that he was cousin-germane to the King, and elder than the other, challenged the government (his Father Philip being dead) rather to belong to him. This sore every day more and more festering, at length the Duke of Orleans was murdered in Paris in the night time, as he was going home from supper. The murderers were sent privily by the Duke of Burgundy, who was so fare from denying the fact, that he maintained it. This was in the year 1407. the ninth of the kalends of December  
The XII. year following, the Duke of Burgundy coming to a place appointed, about a pacification in this cause, was entrapped by treachery and murdered by certain of the Duke of Orleans his friends that had sworn his death: Charles the Dolphin, the King's son, who was judge in that controversy being present at the fact.  
This is the head-spring of the war betwixt those two houses, which hath so often broke forth ever since that time, till within our memory.  
Wenceslaus, by reason of his negligence grown into contempt: 
Robert 14●0. an. 9 m 8. d. 22.  the Princes deprive him of the government, and elect Robert Duke of Bavaria, Count Palatine. He presently applied himself about reformation of Wenceslaus his misgovernment: and would not ratify the grant made by him to john Galeas, but contrived a new, how to reduce Lombardy into the Imperial dominions: for which, and other such like causes, marching down into Italy, the said Galeas hindered and repelled him. The State of Italy, was in those times very troublesome, chiefly by the Emperor Charles and Wenceslaus their default, being too indulgent over that Nation: For over and beside Galeas lately made Duke of Milan: The Venetians, Florentines, & Genoese, made war upon their neighbours: and all right was swayed by the sword and violence. Furthermore by reason of the Pope's continual absence, nothing but factions, and those dangerous ones, swarmed at Rome. Then also Galeas D. of Milan made war upon the Florentines, who to work their own revenge solicit the Emperor by large proffers, to march down again into Italy: but when the Emperor was come to Milan, He (at request of the Venetians, who likewise hated Gal●●a, and withal perceiving that their provision was not answerable to their great promises) retires into Germany, casting off all care of Italy, whose estate afterwards grew more weak, by its own civil broils.  
To the Emperor Robert, 
Sigismond 14●●. an. 26. m. 8.  Sigismond the Emperor Wencest●us his brother King of Hungary succeeds. At this time there were three Popes, john the XXXIII. Gregory the XII. and Benedict the XIII. insomuch as by their factions, almost all the Provinces of Europe, were at odds. For there was not one public Council, at any time since Innocent the III. as their books testify, being 200. years, and the state of the Clergy was most corrupt, a kind of bottomless sink of vices and maladies having made an inundation, which in a manner scorned to be stopped. For Boniface the VIII. was Pope in the interim, who took upon him both the Papal and Imperial authority. Then the next after him, Clement the V of Bordeaux, at Philip the Fair the French Kings request (forsaking Rome) removed his Court into France: and after his death the Cardinals falling into sharp dissensions amongst themselves, made a vacancy for some years: but at length john the XXII. of Aquitaine, was created Pope at Lions. The fifth Pope after him, which was Gregory the XI. (when the Popes had kept their Court in France then for 71. years together) returns to Rome; but after his death Vrbane the VI a Neapolitan, and Clement the VI a Savoysin, contended for the Papacy. The first whereof upheld himself by the Italian party, and lived at Rome, the other by the French, and lived at Auinion. After those two were dead, the other there before mentioned, were by several factions chosen in their places, the Papal Monster having then three heads.  
At what time many worthy men both Italians and French, deplored the State of the Church, inveighing bitterly enough against the corruptions and vices of those times, as fare as they could see in those days of darkness. Amongst the rest, Petrarch was one, who when the Popes and Cardinals lay at Auinion, called that City the whore of Babylon.  
Whereupon to determine that Controversy, a Council was assembled at Constance in Germany, by order whereof those Three were deposed, and Martin the V elected. At this Council john H●● and Hierome of Prague were burnt for heresy, though they came thither under safe conduct from the Emperor Sigismond: the Emperor is much commended, for that He, to benefit the Commonwealth went almost to all the Kings in Christendom, to exhort them to have a care of the common good.  
After the affairs were settled in Germany, he goes down into Italy, at what time the Venetians and Florentines were up in Arms both by sea & land, against Philip Maria, john Galeas his son, Duke of Milan, and so forward to Rome, being there consecrated by Eugenius the FOUR and returned by Basil, where then there was another Council held.  
Albertus' Archduke of Austria, 
Albertus' II. 1437. an. 1. m. 9 d. 27.  King of Hungary and Bohemia, was his successor: whom the civil wars at home, and foreign abroad held back from Italy.  
About this time, those wits were roused up again, which began to polish the liberal sciences, language, and good letters, the Italians indeed gave the onset, who were furthered by help of the Grecians, and then after followed the Germans, French, and other Nations: and further, when the invention of 
u Printing w●s invented in Germany in the year 1440 So Pollydor Virgil, and others affirm.  Printing came to light, so immense was the profit thereof, that it is incredible what a happy and joyful progress ensued. For now, this course of study having been constantly continued ever since that time; It is advanced so high, that this our age may enter into comparison, with the most learned ages in time past, and in this regard is blessed above all the rest, in that it hath pleased God to illuminate this knowledge of the best Arts and languages with the true knowledge of Him: Whereas those Ancients, furnished only with the help of learning, though men most eloquent, yet they were plunged in depth of darkness, and searched in vain, after that quintessence of goodness, whereof they writ so much.  
To Albertus, 
Frederick III. 1440. an. 53. m. 7. d. 19  Frederick the III. Archduke of Austria, succeeded, he passed quietly to Rome, and received consecration from Pope Nicholas the V so returning home without drawing a sword in Italy. In the fourth year of his reign Vladislaus, Vladislaus his son King of Polonia and Hungary, having by Pope Eugenius the III. his instigation, broke the Truce, was overthrown in battle, and slain at Varna, or Dionysiopolis, the XI. of November, by Amurath the II. Emperor of the Turks. The IX. year after this, Mahomet Amurath's son, 
Constantinople taken by Amurath the II. 1453. The Turkish Army at the siege thereof consisted of 400000. men.  took the City of Constantinople by force of Arms, which his successors have now held this 
* From 1453. when it was taken, till 1556. when Sleidan writ this book. Maximilian 1493. an. 25 m. 4. d. 25. The Moors chased cut of Granado in Spain, 1487. Charles the V 1519. an. 38. m. 6. d. 27.  103. years, keeping their Imperial Court there. Casimi●, Vladislaus his brother succeeded him in the Kingdom of Polonia: and Ladislaus, the Emperor Albert the II. his posthume son, in Hungary.  
To Frederick the Emperor his son Maximilian succeeded. A little before the death of this Emperor Frederick, Ferdinando King of Spain, chase out the Moors, annexed Betica, commonly called the Kingdom of Granado, to his own Crown.  
Maximilian (as he did many more) made war also upon the Venetians. Him the most puissant Emperor Charles (being his grandchild by his son 
* Archd. of Austria.  Philip) succeeded, who now sways the Sceptre.  
Thus out of that which we have mentioned, it clearly appears, after what manner the Roman Empire, than which, none ever was or will be, more potent: is now in a manner crushed in pieces. For throughout Asia we have not so much as a foot, or a nail's breadth, as the proverb is. The Turks, Scythians, and other Enemies of our Religion, hold all there. We have lost all Africa, but what hath been recovered of late years, by Charles the V when he won Tunis from Aenobarbe the Turkish Lieutenant, archieuing a glorious victory, and made the King there tributary to him: as also the fifteenth year following, besieged and took the Town of Aphricke.  
Portugal, Spain, France, Britain, Denmark, Sarmatia, Pannonia, Illyricum, all Greece, with the adjacent Countries are torn away: as also the Lands of Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, Maiorique and Minorique, and Savoy, which Provinces have their peculiar Lords, who hold full power in all matters, and are not at a penny charge about any affairs of the Empire.  
Now let us look upon Italy, the old, ancient, and first patrimony of the Roman Empire: but wherein doth it participate with us? The Kings of Spain, by ancient succession hold Calabria, Apulia, Campania, and Naples. The Popes keep in their hands the City of Rome, formerly the Emperor's Palace and Court Imperial, together with Marca de Ancona, Romandiola, and part of Tuscan, who are so fare from acknowledging subjection to the Emperor, that they hold the Emperors and their Deputies to be bound to them.  
Those Cities there of any strength, either have their proper Lords, or else are swayed by factions, and having nothing at all to do with us. Now for the Venetians what a company hold they, not only of goodly Cities, and freeburrowes, but also Provinces: they themselves in the interim, being an absolute free-state, and quite separated from the Roman Empire. As for Insubria, commonly called Lombardy, that indeed belongs somewhat nearer to us: but it totters too, neither receive we any certain profit from thence. For after that our Emperors had, as abovesaid, first constituted Viscounts there, as they call them, and afterwards Dukes, how miserably was it rend to pieces, and ever since that time how little did it benefit us? For our Emperor's neglecting it in time of the wars there, the house of the Sfortia's dispossessing the Viscount's, seized upon it, whom afterwards Lewis the XII. and Francis the I. Kings of France, excluded; the latter whereof held it for six years, till the Emperor Charles the V recovered it.  
Thus you see, no revenues come from any part of Italy, for they neither repair to our Diets, nor contribute any thing at all to any public use or necessity, but what they do voluntarily, or in favour to the Emperor: only Germany remains, which always repugned the Roman Empire, scarce ever free from rebellion, as before appears, till at length it was gathered together by the Emperor Charles the Great, and reduced into one body: after which time, when the power of electing the Emperors, was committed to the seven Electors, as we have formerly showed, it became the Emperor's Court and Mansion place. And here too we must consider, with what difficulty this little diminutive body of the Empire, congealed in Germany, could incorporate itself: for when were we ever free from jars and civil broils? So now whatsoever goes under the name of the Empire, is incuded within the bounds of Germany, for all foreign places, and those without the compass thereof, are fallen away. Howbeit we see there are many, even within those small compassed limits, that fly back, and as much as they can, withdraw themselves and their countries forth of the jurisdiction of the Empire. I pass over in silence those neighbouring Kings and other Princes, that day by day catch & snatch away, as much as they can from this feeble and sapless little body, which scarce cleaves to the bones: striving to bring that into their own dominions, which belonged to the Commonwealth.  
But to come to an end in some time, let us lend our attention to daniel's prophecy, concerning all that is spoken. We have treated of the Image that Nabuchodonozar saw in his dream, whereto we will return again; but in the interim, take a view of some other places. In his VII. Chap. he describes the four beasts, which in a dream he saw coming out of the Sea: A Lion, a Bear, a Leopard, and the fourth and last, he says, was terrible and dreadful to behold. The Lion signifies the kingdom of Assyria, the two wings which he had, are as it were the two members of that Empire, Babylon and Assyria. By the Bear is understood the kingdom of Persia, by which Babylon was conquered: the three ribs which he says were in his mouth betwixt his teeth, are the three chief Kings of that Monarchy, Cyrus, Darius and Artaxerxes, who were more famous than the rest, and eat much flesh as he speaks, that is, brought many nations into their subjection.  
The Leopard is Alexander the Great, or the Greek Empire; his four wings & heads, are the four kingdoms which rise out of that Monarchy, after Alexander's death. The fourth and last Beast is the Roman Empire: the ten horns are his members or Provinces, such as were Syria, Egypt, Asia, Greece, Africa, Spain, Gallia, Italy, Germany, Britain: for all those they held.  
Now a certain little horn, grew up and shot forth amongst the ten horns, which plucked away three horns from those ten. This notifies the kingdom of Mahomet or the Turk, which from a small beginning, budding forth of the Roman Monarchy, seized upon three of the chiefest parts thereof, Egypt, Asia, and Greece. Further this little horn hath eyes, and was reproachful against God: For Mahomet vented a new kind of doctrine, which was well liked of by his followers, as carrying some show of wisdom in it. Those are the eyes, but indeed he blasphemes God. For he abolishes the Books of the Prophets and Apostles, and acknowledges no benefit by Christ, but reproachfully rails against all doctrine concerning Christ. Further, that little horn, saith he, shall make war with the Saints, and sore afflict them, till the Ancient of days shall come to judgement, who hath neither beginning nor end: whereby it clearly appears, that within the time of this Empire, the term of this world shall have an end, and shall never be again: but after the dissolution of all earthly Principalities, then shall follow that perpetual kingdom, whereof Christ shall be Prince and Head.  
In his eight chapter, the Prophet Daniel describes the Ram and the Goat, which the Angel afterwards plainly interprets, saying, the Ram with two horns, betokens the Kings of the Medes and Persians: and the Goat, the Greek Empire, and the great horn in his forehead, the first king of that Empire: and that four horns succeeded after that horn was broken; it signifies, saith he, that four kingdoms shall rise out of that Empire, but not to be compared to that first King for strength and puissance.  
Here we may see how properly and infallibly the Prophet Daniel portraies Alexander the Great, two hundred years and more before his reign. For it shall so fall out, saith he, that the Goat shall not touch the earth; that is, he should run over his wars with exceeding celerity, and no man should be able to deliver the Ram out of his hand: for Alexander reigned only twelve years, in which little inch of time, he almost subdued all Asia, as we have above showed. And though the Medes and Persians were of incredible strength, yet in three set battles, Darius was overthrown, and lost his life and his Empire both at once.  
Many writ, that when Alexander came to jerusalem, the Highpriest read that place of Daniel to him, which exceedingly rejoiced him.  
Again, that another horn should rise from amongst those four horns, at first but small, but afterwards very powerful, which should grievously oppress the Sanctuary: herely saith he, he foretells those most bitter persecutions which the jews should suffer under Alexander the Great his successors, the Kings of Egypt and Syria, betwixt whom the Country of judea lies: For the jews have felt that horn which rose out of the four horns, in Antiochus Epiphanes King of Syria, that most cruel destroyer.  
Hither also, we must apply the eleventh chapter, wherein he speaks again of Alexander the Great, and so copiously and properly, that it may rather seem an History, than a Prophecy.  
But now again let us return to Nabuchodonozor's Image, whereof, upon occasion, we spoke in our first book; as for the interpretation thereof, concerning the three first Monarchies, I will not repeat it, because it is both perspicuous, as also made good by the times themselves, only we will speak something of the fourth, because it both properly appertains unto us, who live in it, and is more exactly described by Daniel: It shall be of iron, saith he, which shall break in pieces, and bring all the rest of the Monarchies in subjection to it: there needs not many words in explanation hereof; for the matter itself speaks, and it manifestly appears out of the history of those Monarches which we have reckoned up.  
But the Images feet, and the toes of the feet, are part of iron, part of potter's clay. As the foot of a man's body is divided into toes, so the Roman Empire, after it hath for a while continued strong, being supported by iron legs, and encircled the whole world in its circumference; shall fall into toes, and that massy body shall be dissolved. This also is plainly effected, and needs no explication: for at this day, what is more divided than the body of that most spacious Empire? And though the case thus stand, yet because the sole of the foot is of iron, the foundation shall remain, and shall never be extinguished, but the relics, title, and dignity thereof shall endere till Christ at his coming shall set a period to all humane things, but it is clear as noon day, and beyond all doubt, that it is now at the lowest ebb.  
That goodly tree is fallen, but the root sticks fast, and remains yet, not having any sap, and therefore unable to grow up, and increase again: but quite dead and withered, yet no force of man shall be able utterly to extirpate this root, and foot-soale of iron nature, but it shall stick fast grounded in the earth, till the whole world shall be destroyed. Hereof also we have had experience, for many have often attempted the subversion of this small and slender parcel of the Empire, as the Popes of Rome, and lastly the Turks: who though they have done great matters, and it may be promise greater to themselves; yet they shall not make up such a massy body, as may hold comparison with the puissance of the Romans: neither shall they subvert this seedplot of the Empire which remains, though it be both dry and withered: nor can any fift Monarchy be raised.  
Though Germany only hath the title and possession of the Empire, yet if it would join hearts and hands, it might easily expel all foreign force, as may be proved by many arguments.  
The Turks of late years have run in very fare upon us, and after the winning of 
a The straight wherupon Constantinople stands in that part dividing Europe and Asia, being not above 7. miles ●●oad.  Bosphoros, or Bogazin in Thrace, raged up and down fare and wide in Europe, whose territories are now directly bordering upon Germany, which seems exposed to the greatest danger, as also Italy, by reason of the nearness. But if we look a little nearer into Daniel, it is to be hoped, that their power and greatness is now at its full height. For Daniel gives them only three horns, as we have before recited, which they now have, being first of all made Lords of all Asia, then of Greece and Egypt. Under the name of Greece, may be comprehended all those Countries almost as fare as Sclavonia or Wendenland. And though at this present they are in possession of a good part of Hungary, and be it granted, that so it may fall out; as they may infest Germany, or other adjacent Countries: yet because their dominions must be confined to certain bounds, and must not extend to comparison with the Roman potency, as we have formerly showed: it is credible that those Provinces shall not fall into their subjection, as those three are at this day, Greece, Egypt, and Asia.  
They shall make war with the Saints, and rage with extremity of cruelty, against the Professors of the name of Christ, and this their fury shall endure till the end of the world as Daniel clearly testifies. And this is the main cause of his Prophecy, that we being hereby admonished and ascertained of the calamities and miseries of the last days, should not be dejected in mind, but look for a freedom by the coming of Christ our Saviour: who will presently, as he himself speaks, take off these afflictions, and transport his servants into a fi●me and peaceable station, and wipe all tears from their eyes.  
Certain places in Daniel, 
Dan 9  do properly appertain to the jews, wherein their deliverance from captivity is foretold, and likewise the certain time (which is there set down and expressed) of the coming of the Messiah promised to the Fathers. The rest of his Prophecies belong to the world's last age of all, and to those that shall then live: when also that little horn, Mahomet's posterity, shall make war with the Saints: and when that man of sin and wickedness shall be revealed and disclosed; who sits in the Temple of God, vaunting himself as though he were God: for Daniel also presignified his tyrannies, 
2 Thes. 2.  as Paul in his Epistles expressly interprets.  
Satan, whom Christ himself calls the Prince of this world, who at all times else, but especially in the last age of this fading world, shall rage's most of all, letting lose the raines of all his wrath and fury, and shall stir up enemies against Christ; who shall not only tyrannize by force of Arms, but also by false doctrine seduce men into deceit and error, insomuch that the very elect shall scarce escape their snares, Mat. 24.  
Surely this is the very time which Daniel in his twelfth chapter points at: being so full fraught with affliction and calamity, as never was before, or ever shall be hereafter. For he promises us no joy, but denounces most cruel persecutions, when he says, that those calamities which he speaks of, 
Dan. 12.7.  shall endure till the scattering of the power of the holy people be accomplished.  
Therefore God's servants shall be persecuted all the world over, and the godly shall be afflicted in diverse places, till the end of the world: which testimony of the Prophet, or rather of the Angel, bereaves us of all hope of reconciliation and aggregation. For he speaks of a perpetual scattering and dissipation; and after that dissensions have arisen about doctrine and Religion, then at length he mentions the end, when CHRIST himself shall appear.  
But to comfort, cheer up, and sustain those, that shall then live, presently after those miseries, he places the resurrection of the dead, which that we may find to our joy and comfort, we ought with servant prayers to beseech God. And Christ himself warrants us for the credence we ought to give to Daniel, who in his sermon rehearses a place taken out from thence, 
Mat. 24. Mar. 13.  and commends it to his Auditors.  
Thus therefore, these our times, being the most miserable, we ought considerately to ponderate and diligently look into this Prophet, who preaches to us now acting the last scene upon this world's stage: that we may fortify ourselves, both in time of these present afflictions, as also against all imminent storms and tempests, with true and assured consolation, as with a certain rampire and bulwark.    

The Names of those Kings of Assyria from Ascatades to Sardanapalus, which Sleidan mentions in the beginning of his first Book, but names them not.  

Amyntas.  
Belochus.  
Bellopares.  
Lamprides.  
Sozares.  
Lampares.  
Pannias.  
Sosarmus.  
Mitreus.  
Tautannes.  
Teuteus.  
Timaeus.  
Dercilus.  
Eupales.  
Laosthenes.  
Pirithidias.  
Ofrateus.  
Ofragineus.  
Ascrazapes.   
FINIS.