A SHORT Survey or History of THE KINGDOM OF SVEDEN. Containing A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ALL THE PROVINCES OF his whole Dominion: As also the riches of his Kingdom, the antiquity, nature, and manners of that Nation; With the Government of his Realm, Might, and Power of this great King, as well by Sea as by Land; his great Officers, his Customs and Revenves of the Crown. With a Genealogy and Pedigree of the Kings of SVEDEN of those especially who have reigned these last five hundred years, with some of their most memorable Acts and Deeds, with their Alliance and Issue or Offa spring. Something also more particularly concerning that Illustrious invincible Great GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS the II. and of his Wars with the Russian, Denmark and Poland: As also of his most Memorable Acts since his coming to the Crown, as well before, as since his entering into Germany, until this present year 1632. LONDON: Printed for Michael Spark, and are to be sold by james Boler at the Marigold in Pauls-church-yard. 1632. The Contents or principal heads handled in this whole Discourse. 1 OF the division of all these Northern Countries and antiquity of the kingdom of Sweden, together with the large extent of this dominion, and the commodities this kingdom affords. 2 A more particular survey of the kingdom of Sweden, with a short description of the particular parts or Provinces thereof, and the benefit they yield to the king and subject. 3 Of the nature, manners, and customs of the Swedish or Suetians, and into how many ranks or degrees the people are divided, where the Clergy is also comprehended. 4 Of the politic and civil government of the kingdom of Sweden. Of their five great Colleges, or courts of justice, and some others also. Of the chief great officers of the kingdom. Of the might and power of the king of Sweden, both by sea and land: of his horse and foot forces, and great store of brass ordnance. Of the great number of warre-ships and other ships or service, and the great number of marrriners wherewith this kingdom is for all occasions furnished. 6 Of customs and tributes, or subsi, dies ordinary and extraordinary belonging to the king of Sweden. 7 A catalogue of some kings of Sweden, together with some of their most memorable acts. 8 A more particular survey of the last kings of this country, of these last 500, years, wi●h some other principal acts, alliance, issue, or offspring. 9 Of great Gustavus Adolphus this present king now reigning, with his most memorable Acts, both before and after his entering into Germany. THE DESCRIPTION OF THE KINGDOM OF SWEDEN. I. Our modern Geographers call all those Northern countries of Europe declining towards the North; Division of the Northern world. the Northern world. This whole country (say they) is divided into two parts, Scania, and Dania, Scandia, or Scandinania, by Pliny, called an Island of unknown greatness, hems in & begirts about all the northermost part of Europe. This is a large and vast Region, extending itself from the 55. to the 72. degree of northerly latitude, above 1000 English miles, and from the 25. to the 65. degree of longitude, or 2400 of our miles. On the south side, it borders on Germany and Denmark, on the North and West, on the Ocean Sea, and on the East on Russia. The parts of this country lying nearest to the South, where the Pole is not elevated above 60 degrees is indifferent temperate; the Region lying betwixt the 60. degree and the arctic circle, are not so temperate, howbeit, the intemperature of the air is well regulated with the fertility of the soil, in such places especially as are not covered over with woods; or rocks, in the south & eastern parts principally. But the extreme, or most northern parts, lying betwixt the arcticls circle, and the pole arctic, enjoy neither a temperate air, nor yet a fruitful soil; and since; by reason of the faint heat of the Sun, corn could not there well ripen, therefore the wise Creator of all things hath furnished these countries with great variety of wild beasts and divers rivers, lakes & gulfs furnished with variety of wholesome fishes, for the sustaining of the inhabitants lives. It would seem that this Scandia was in former times far more populous, than it is at this time, witness these frequent transmigrations, and, as it were, inundations of the Scanzian people into othcr remote regions of the world; when as partly by reason of the multitude, and natural fecundity or fruitfulness of that people, partly by reason of dearth of corn, & partly by their inclination to war and avoiding Idleness, like Bees they sought out new hives for themselves and their children, and those great heaps of stones, even at this day in the most deserts & woods to be seen, & in former times, no doubt gathered together to cleanse the high ways, do undoubtedly evidence unto us, that in former times all those places have been peopled, and therefore not without great reason, did the ancient writers call this country, a shop of people: officinam gentium populorum que vaginam, & from hence have we not only the Normans, Suevians, Vandals, & divers other nations: but the Westorgoths, and ostrogoths, also who after many peregrinations, thorough many Provinces and Kingdoms, whom they wearied out with their wars, at length they settled themselves in Spain, where even at this day they bear rule. This Scandia, Antiqnity of the kingdom of Sweden. or Scandinavia, comprehends under it 2 northern kingdoms, Sweden & Norway. The kingdoms of Sweden, as witness the Scanzian histories, is more ancient than any of the others, from whose Kings hath the ancient families of the Kings of Denmark & Norway, are desceneded for Dan first King of Denmark, from whence this country was called Dania, or Danmarchia was the son of Humelus the 16 King of Sweden, and the Norvegians, in their Chronicle, before ever they come to their own, reckon up 25 Kings of Sweden, of whom is descended Hwithen, by the mother descended of one soluon, a certain Prince of Norway succeeded him in his dominion, and haviving not a little enlarged the same, left it to his lawful heirs and successroes, from whom Haraldus Harsagher, being lineally descended in the fourth degree, having vanquished and expelled all the other petty Kings, did there first of all establish an absolute Monarchy, as witnesseth the ancient Chronicle of Norway, written by Master john Martinus Slangerupensis, and published in Denmark, Anno. 1595. Of this kingdom of Sweden, I purpose now to say some thing, as I find it written in the Swedish History, howbeit, as briefly at I can: and speaking of the country, I shall say something of the several Provinces and Territories belonging to this Crown, the commodities and riches they yield, both to King and Subject; as also concerning the politic government, together with divers customs of this country. In the next place, something shall be said of the might and power of this great King, both by Sea and Land, his chief Officers of State, etc. and then come we to the Kings of that country, both ancient and of latter times, with some of their chief acts, and the latter King's alliances. In the last place is something more particularly said concerning this great Gustavus Adolphus now reigning, and his chief acts, both before and since his expedition into Germany, briefly handled. The King of Sweden, or Swethland, call it as you list, although until now of late years, not so much taken notice of in these parts of the world as many other Princes and Potentates; yet may it well appear that he is on mean Prince, nor of small power. His chief country, and from which he takes his chief denomination, is called by some Sueonia, Sueonia. and the people from thence Sueones: Suevia. as also, and with us most frequently Suevia, and the people Swevi; now there is in high Germany, another country sounding somewhat like it, called Suevia, the people Suevi, and in high Dutch Swaben, bordering on Bavaria, being a colony in former times come out of this country of Sweden, of whom my purpose is not here to speak. This potent King than hath under his dominion, not only this country of Sweden, properly so called, but also Gothland, Flintland, and a great part of Lapland, besides some Territories in the dominion of the great Duke or Knez of Russia, or Muscovia, as hereafter shall appear. This country is a very fruitful soil, a land flowing with milk and honey; and yielding come in great abundance; besides the great abundance of metals digged out of the bowels of the earth, and the excellency of the pastures of this land, may from hence appear, that some country people of Holland, removing their habitation into Sweden, affimed that they made as much butter of 60. measures of milk there, as they did in Holland of a hundred the like measures. This pleasant country is replenished with innumerable lakes, furnished with most dainty fishes; & out of these same lakes do run and Issue out many pleasant and profitable rivers. This country is in the South parts more plain & even; but towards the North and Wst more mountainous, not without great store of woods, very useful for the fining of those metals, in so great abundance digged out of many of those mountains. The maritane pares not of Swethland only, but of Finland also, are for the most part environed with high and steep rocky hills & Lands, many of them being scarce covered with green grass, and this is the cause why it is so hard and difficult a matter for strangers, without some skilful Pilot of the natural inhabitans, to sail near their shore, and strangers at their first approaching wonder that such a country should afford the inhabitants means to sustain life, until such time; as they are better acquainted with the inner parts of the country; and this land hath likewise commerce with the I'll of Britain Denmark, Norway, Poland, Russia, and such other Northern Regions beyond the 50 or 51 degrees of Northerly latitude, that it bringeth forth none of that noble liquor of the grape, which is notwithstanding in great abundance brought from other countries, and besides, they are well furnished with good ale and beer for their ordinary drink. 2. The kingdom of Sweden is divided into Sweden, Division of the Kingdom of Sweden. Gothland, Finland, Ingria and Esthionia. Sweden, or Swethland, called Suecia, or Sucovia, into Sueovia, properly so called, and the Northlands, Nordlandias'. Sueovia, and the parts thereof. Of Sueovia, properly so called, are these parts or Provinces following. Vplandia, Vestmania, Dalecharlia, Nevira and Suedermania. This country Vplandia hath most commonly been graced with the pre-eminence above the rest, Vplandia. and where the King hath most commonly kept his Court. Conmedities of this country. This country is very well furnished with plenty of very good corn, the which is liberally imparted to these daily diggers of metals upon the mountains. It is not destitute of good mines of iron, Mines in this country. and lead especially, and in some places, Division of Vplandia. of silver also, although not very much. It is again divided into three folk-lands (as they call them) that is; shires, or Provinces of three people; and these again subdivided into smaller parts, much answerable to our division of hundred, and which name they also attribute unto them. Of all the cities and towns, vot only of this, but of all the other Provinces of the Swedish dominions, Stockholme. Stackholme is the chief, and where the King most commonly makes his abode and residence, seated in an Island among the waters, as Venice, for the which cause it had this name imposed. By means of the lake Melexus it hath brought from the inland all manner of grain, butter, cheese, and such other comedies useful for the life of man, as also cooper, iron, and other metals; and again, by the same way sends them back such commodities as are brought from remote regions: and by the sea it is supplied with wine, oil, salt, etc. It is much of the same degree of northerly latitude with the city Aberden in the of Scotland, it being seated in the South part of Sweden, to wit, betwixt the 58. and 59 degree. Next unto it, Vpsalia. is Vpsalia; sometime the royal seat of the adjacent northern parts: for there was kept the King's Court, the supreme court of justice, and there was also the Archbishop's sea with a fair cathedral Church, the which only of all the rest, continueth yet until this day. There there is also a famous University, of the which more hereafter. This City is seated, as it were, in the very centre of this rich Province, on the bank of the River Sala. Besides these, there are yet in his Province some others of good note, howbeit, inferior to the former, to wit, Enecopia, Sigrundia, Oregrundia. The next Province of Sueonia, Vestmania. is Vestmania, in fertility nothing inferior to Vplandia, but in metals far exceeding the same: for in it is a very rich silver mine, called Salbergh; as for good iron and steel, there is there also great abundance, where mines of copper, Rich Mines. lead and brimstone are not also wanting. The chief City thereof is called Grosia, and commonly Westeras, adorned with a Bishop's sea, and a cathedral Church, where is also a fair stately castle to be seen, and here may one see great store of copper and lead brought from the hills of that country: There are yet besides this, the Towns Arbogia and Koping abounding with the same metals, but iron especially. The Province of Dalecharlia, Dalecharlia. although it be not inferior to the former in the abundance of metals and minerals, yet in the abundance of good copper digged out of these deep vaults and caverns, to the no small amazement of such as are not acquainted with such sights; it doth far exceed any other; and besides copper, the same mine yieldeth yet great store of brimstone, alum and copperess. And the water which is drawn from thence, A profitable water. changeth iron into good copper, with the loss of the fourth part, if the weight of the iron be in small pieces; and the third part only, if the pieces be great and thick. This country yields also good store of grain; howbeit, scarce sufficient to furnish those laborious painful pioneers, there being there such a number of them maintained at work. Next unto it, is Nericia▪ Nericia. where although there be a silver mine, yet yielding but small benefit, is therefore neglected. The mines of brimstone yield also store of alum and copperess. It would seem, that all the inhabitants of this country, are borne natural Smiths: for they send abroad into all the neighbouring countries all manner of iron implements. They have but one city, called Orebregia. The last is Sudermannia, Sndermannia. which is neither destitute of metals, nor yet of good store of iron, especially the parts adjoining to the great lake Melerus. The chief city of this country is Nycopia, a famous port for traffic, Nycopia, and with all adorned with a fair castle, where the Duke of this country most commonly had his abode. Next is Strengosia an Episcopal Sea, Strengosia with a Cathedral Church, graced with the dead corpse of Charles the 9 of that name, and father to the most famous and victorious King, great Gustavus now reigning. There are yet some other Towns belonging to this teritory, Tolga, Torsilia, Trosa. to wit, Tolga, Torsilia, and Trosa, all very rich and commodious for traffic and commerce. The other part of Sweden, is properly called by the name of Northland. Of this Northland, Northland. Gestricia. there are two Provinces, Gestricia & Helsingia. Gestricia, had corn enough to supply the inhabitants wanrs, and besides, is well furnished with iron mines: I hath in it one very good City, called Gervalia, Gerralia. seated by the Seaside, as well for exporation, as importation of all manner of commodities, and about half a day's journey from the copper mines. By ancient records, it appeareth that this Helsingia in former times, Helsingia, sometimes a kingdom. was a general name, comprehending the rest of the Northern Provinces; and the Scanzian Histories do testify, that this same country in former times, was graced with the Title of a kingdom, and was governed by Kings, until such time as jugellus, King of Vpsalia, and father to Olavus Tretelias, King of Vermelandia, at his coronation burnt to ashes, Helsingian, an ancient people. the last Helsingian King, with some other moe, whose kingdom he after incorporated to that of Vpsalia. Many other things concerning the antiquity and valour of this Nation, for brevity, I purposely let pass. Among all the Swedish people, these are most remarkable for their great hospitality; Affectionate to learning. and besides, they are so affectionate to learning, that although public Schools for good literature, be but rare among them, yet are private persons, who have attained to any learning, so forward to instruct their neighbours, that it is a hard matter to find one going at plough, but he can read. The inhabitants of his country, are either Helsingia, properly so called, or Laplanders. Of the Helsingians, than the Provinces, or these: Helsingians properly so called, Medelpadia, Angermania, and Bothnia. This Hesingia, Helsingia properly so called. properly so called, was formerly called Sundhede and Nordslegh. The soil of this country is fruit full enough, and the inhabitants much addicted to grazing of cattle, and many of them are very industrious in making of linen cloth, and not unskilful in many other manual trades, some being also addicted to fishing. It containeth one good city, Hudinswaldia. Hudinswaldia, whose inhabitants transport into other country's great store of butter, tallow, hides and skins, pitch and resin, masts for ships, clapboord and the like. Medelpadia is much of the same nature & quality with Helsingia, Medelpadia. but that it is somewhat narrow and fuller of woods. It is furnished with Z good rivers, well stored with exceeding good fish, as Salmon especially, and it is supposed, that in former times, the Helsingian Kings kept their Court in this Country. Angermannia, Angermannia. although it be full of high and steep rocks, yet are the valleys so fruitful, that if but once in ten years compassed, Fertility of the soil. they bring forth every year exceeding good corn, if the unseasonablnesse of the weather, do not sometimes frustrate the husbandman's expectation. It is, as it were, divided into two arms, the one more southerly, running towards the West; the other towards the Sea, and further to the North. It is watered with one fair river, abounding with divers forts of good fishes, Salmon especially: there is in it also one fair city. Bothnia is not so hilly as this Angermannia, Bothnia. and yet by reason of the sandy soil, and the coldness of the climate, the country is not so fruitful as the former, which defect, notwithstanding, is well supplied with the abundance of other commodities. It is very well watered with divers great rivers, abounding with very good fish, Salmon, especially: It hath in it no city, howbeit, every Parish is, as it were, at town of traffic and commerce; for in summer they provide store of corn, and such other commodities, as their neighbour Leplanders want, which they buy of such as traffic into their country, which commodities in the winter they carry into Lapland, where all rivers and rivers and lakes are hard frozen; and bring again back from thence great abundance of rich furs, fishes dried and hardened with the frost, and many the like commodities. Next follows Lapponia, Lappionia, or Lappi●. or Lappia, called commonly Lapland, and the inhabitants Lappones, Laplanders. This is the northermost Province belonging to this potent Prince, a large and vast country, but hath neither corne-fields, cities nor towns. The country is full of hills, woods, rivers, lakes and pools; and in many places very good pastures. The people are ingenious enough and civil, living most by hunting and fishing: Their manner of life. They live like unto the Tartars, travelling in great troops together, with their cattle, and settle about some river or lake, where there is good pasture for their cattle, and when that is all eaten up, Their innocence. remove to another place. Adultery and murder is scarce heard of among that people, nor yet any theft, and merchants travelling that way, ordinarily leave their wares, covered only with some old cloth to keep off the snow, and after divers days, at their return, never miss any of their goods. Their appearrell is made of skins of beasts and woollen cloth brought to them from other countries; Their apparel. as for linen cloth they have none; but to sew their clothes, they make thread of the nerves of sinews of beasts, dried, beaten, and dressed like flax, Strange thread. with the which they both sew their garments, & cover the same also with tin, as we do wtih silver and so adorn their garments therewith, as we do with silver and gold lace. In former times, they were much addicted to sorcery and witchcraft, howbeit, that is now well reform. Their tents▪ In stead of houses they use tents made of the bark of birch sowed together. Their tents. In the winter time, they meet togther at certain places, and fail not, where both these aforementioned merchants, find them to traffic with the King's customers, The meetings to demand their tribute, and the Churchmen were wont to come to catechise them, and to baptise their children, etc. But Charles the 9 and father to this famous and great Gustavus, now reigning, built in several places of this country certain chapels, and churches for the exercise of Religion. This people is ninble, active, Nature of the people. and very good soldiers, which if envy itself should deny, yet that memorable battle fought near Leipzig will witness to the world's end: Good soldiers Diamonds, Topazes, and Amethists▪ among them. some of the hills of this country yield precious stones, viz. Diamonds, Topazes, and Amethists. At this day, these Laplanders are subject to 3. Kings, of Sweden, Denmark, and the great Duke of Russia. The greatest, & the best part of this country, viz. all the South, & mediterranean part, belongs to the King of Sweden, a very huge vast country, extending from the 69. to the 71. degree of northerly latitude, being above 400. miles in length and above 360. in breadth. This country is divided into 5. Division of this country. several territoties, or jurisdictions, called Lapmarchia, to wit, Vmalapmarck, Pitalapmarck, Tornlapmarek, & Kimilapmarck, whose inhabitants pay tribute to none but to the King rf Sweden. To Norway, now under the danish King, belongeth that tract running along long the sea-coast, called Finmarchia, and the inhabitants Siofuni, or maritime inhabitants, living upon fish only. The rest belongs to the Russian Prince, from the castle of Vardhus to the mouth of the milbrie sea, in the Swedish tongue called Trennes: in the Laplanders language Prihinienni; and in the Russian speech Tarchanavolech even at this day. Now next after the country of Sweden follows in order Gothia, Gothia. or Gothland; as if one should say, a good land, being also subect to the Crown of Sweden, & divided from the same by a great wood only. This is the ancient country, and natural soil of so many warlike people, which in former ages have made their names famous to future generations, which honour many other nations would willingly assume unto themselves, the which subject, for brevity's sake, I must here pass. This country is divided into two parts, Division of this country. East and West Gothland. To West Gothland belong these Provinces following Vestrogothia, Dalia and Vermelandia, unto which some join Hallandia. Vestrogothia, Vestrgothia. as it is somewhat inferior to the most fruitful parts of Sweden, regard of corn; so doth it again in good pastures for cattle exceed them; wherein consists their chief riches, as the others in their tillage & increase of corn. It is also watered with many rivers, yielding great store of fish, besides divers Cities and Towns. Cities. The Cities are Gotheburgum, a great and rich staple for traffic; Slara an Episcopal Sea, Mariesladum, and Lidecopia. The towns thereof Fabropia, Towns. Sbredni, Hin, Bogesund, Beretta, and Lindosia the old. Dalia, Dalia. is a mountainous country in most places; hath many fishie rivers and lakes, and pasture for cattle in no small abundance, in so much, that there are far greater oxen found in that country, then in other places. Vermelandia, Vermelandia. among all the Gothish Provinces best inhabited, and colonies first carried thither by Olaus Trekelius. It is a hilly and wood-land country, yet not unfurnished, of iron mines, and one of copper reasonable rich, but lately found aut. Carolostadium. In it is one city called Carolostadium, built by Charles the 9 in a place before called Tingualla, Hallandia, a little country adjoining thereto, because belonging to the King of Denmark, I there of set purpose pass by. The Provinces of East- Gothland, are Ostrogothia, Smalandia, and Oelandia, with which in former times, were also reckoned Gotlandia, Scania, and Bleckingia Ostrogothia, Ostrogothia. is for the most part a plain champain country, and so fruitful, that it exceedeth many other Provinces of Sweden, and by some thought, Fertility of the soil. not to equal only, but even to exceed Upland itself, the principal Province of the whole Swedish dominion. It is exceeding pleasant, and very well furnished with many fishie rivers, abundance of wild beasts and wild fowl; and finally, whatsoever is useful for man's sustnance, except wine and salt. Neither is it unfurnished of mines in the mountainous parts of Godegard, Hellestaberg, and Vongaberg. In it is seated the City Vadstenan, adorned with a fair castle, and an Abbey dedicate to Saint Brigeta. There is besides it, Scheningia, sometimes of great fame and note, but now reduced to the form of a Town, Lanicopia, an Episcopal Sea, Norcopia, and Sudercopia, two famous staples, or Towns for traffic. Smalandia, Smalandia. a large country, above 300. miles in compass, and is, for the most part, full of great woods, and yet for good pastures, nothing inferior to many of the neighbour countries, Good pastures. insomuch that they send many very great fed cattle into Denmark, which are from thence yearly in great abundance sent into all high Germany and the lowcountries. In it are also great store of great rivers & lakes, well stored with abundance of excellent good fish. Mines of copper and steel. In that part called Tinstia there are copper mines newly found out. In Taberg there are good steel mines: and besides, out of their lakes, they gather a certain rude matter, which with very small labour is made very good iron. This country is divided into divers parts, the principal whereof, are Tieherad, Verandia, Division of this country. Tinstia, as also Finherdia and Mantingia, famous for the Longobards expedition. Cities for the largeness of the country it hath not many; the chief are Calmarnia, levecopia, Vexio an Episcopal Sea, Elresio, and Vestervile. Olandia is a rich and fruitful Island, Olandia. abounding in many rich commodities. But because this Island, as likewise Hallandia and Bleckingia are at this present under the obedience of the Danish King, Occasion of wars betwixt the two neighbouring Princes.. I will here pass by it. And yet shall it not be out of purpose to take notice that these Lands have been the cause of great quarrels and controversies betwixt these two neighbouring Princes, Sweden and Denmark: and no less cotnroversie hath it caused among Writers, some pretending a right, some a long prescription of time to corroborate the Title of their Prince, whose right they took upon them to maintain. Next in order follows Finland, Finlandia. which some think so to be called in comparison of Sweden, as though it did in fruitfulness far exceed it, who are foully deceived: Why so called. for it is more probable that it was first called Fiendland, by reason of the great hostility those Finlanders exercised against this nation, so long as they were commanded by a King of their own. This country abounds in corn, pastures, fish, and fowl; and finally, in such things as are most necessary for the life of man: this people is very laborious and able to endure hardship. Nature of this people. Of old they were esteemed the mildest among all those Scanzian people, howbeit, at this day, they be somewhat harsher, and their valour in war was well witnessed in this last memorable battle, fought near Leipsig in Misnia. They have a peculiar language of their own, in the which are some singularities to be observed; namely, that some letters they cannot pronounce: Singularities in their languagess. as B, D, G, and that they want the letter F, neither have they any word beginning with two consonants, and therefore when they pronounce any such word, in other languages, they leave out such letters: and for this cause, if they be not sent abroad while they are yet young, they can never learn to pronounce foreign languages, and thus for gratus, they pronounce ratus, for spes, pes: for Dominus, tominus: for bonus, ponus, etc. And this is the reason, why the Nobles, Merchants, and others of ability, send their youth to be instructed in the Swedish tongue, by which means they are afterwards fitted for the learning of any other. Again, in their language, they observe no genders, having one only articles, se, which they attribute to both sexes, and to all genders. Some others for brevity, When, and by whom first subdued. I here willingly pass by. These Finlanders in former times, had Kings of their own nation, great wars with the Swedish, until such time as being by Ericus King of Sweden, subdued in the year 1130. they were also forced to embrace the Christian faith. Now this King subdued not the whole country, but afterwards Birgerus jeri subdued Tavastia, and again Turgillus subdued Runts, or Carelia, and about the year 1193. the better to keep them in obedience, and withal to inhibit the incursions of the Russians; he built the castle Viburg. Finland is divided into the South & North, Caiania, Savolaxia, Tavastia, Nylandia and Carlia: Division of the country. The Northern part is divided from the Southern by the river Amarokei, running hard by the Episcopal sea Abo. In the Western part thereof, is that old castle Gust●, now ruinated; in the East part the castle Raseberg, Cities, towns and castles. together with the Jurisdiction thereto belonging. The Northern part thereof extends itself towards the Bothnicke gulf, Nothward; comprehending the one and the other Salagundia, Vienio, and Maseo. In it is a famous river called Cumo-elffe, abounding with Salmon, and many other dainty fishes, and near the Episcopal City, Biornebegh, falling into the Sea. Betwixt this city and Abo, are the towns Raumo, Nystadh, and Nadhandill, where was of old, that famous Monastery, called the valley of grace. Caiania, called also the Eastern Bothnia, is furnished with many goodly fishie rivers. Caiania. It hath lately built there in the towns Vla and Vasa; Towns. as also the castles Caianoburgum and Vloburgum. Savolaxia abounds with goodly lakes an rivers, Savolaxia. and almost all of them disburden themselves by the river Vox, into that great lake, Ladoga. This lake Togetha, together with these rivers among all the rest of this Scanzian country, do only breed the seacalfe, Lake- I-adoga. called Phoca, and Vitulus Marinus. They are likewise furnished with abundance of other good fishes, Sea- Calse. and among others great jacks and Pikes, which are from thence, being first dried with the frost, in great abundance transported to Viburgum. In it is also a very fair strong castle, Nystat. built in the year, 1475. by one Ericus Axelson, Master of the King's household, and by him called Saint Olaws castle. Tavastia is a mediterranean country, Tavas●ia. Nystat or Newcastle. and in it that famous and renowned lake Peiende. The srong castle of Tavastia was built by Bergerus jeri, to curb and keep under these Tavastians' by him newly conquered, and subjugated under the Crown of Sweden, having withal compelled them to embrace the Christian religion. In the North parts of this country, Iron made of water. the inhabitants fish out of the bottoms of their lakes a certain rude matter, which, with small labour and pains, and as little charges, they make very good iron, and very serviceable for man's use. Nylandia, not that it was so called, as though in former times it had been without any inhabitants, Nylandi. but by reason that those who do now inhabit the same, in comparison of other, were but newly come thither, for the Helsingians and other people of Sweden, sent thither their colonies. The country is fruitful enough, and well furnished with store of fish, fowl & wild beasts for hunting. Towns. It hath in it two towns, Borgo, and Hefingfors. Carelia is a large and vast Region, and seemeth that the old inhabitants lived most by their sheep and cattle: for Curia in their language, signifieth sheep or cattle. So long as the Finlanders had a King of their own nation over them, all this country of Carelia belonged to Finland: but since the Swedish did so much by war annoy the inhabitants, that by little and little, they brought many of the Provinces of that country, to become tributary to them; the Russians much suspecting the power arising of so potent a neighbouring Prince, thought in time to anticipate his enemies, designs: for the which cause, this Russian Prince by force of arms, made himself Master of this whole country. And this same country was for many years after the common theatre of war betwixt those two potent Princes of Sweden and Russia, and that for a long tract of time, with various and doubtful event, sometimes the one, and sometimes again the other party prevailing, until such time as Magnus, surnamed Smek, King of Sweden, and George, Duke of Novogardia divided it equally betwixt them, setting & appointing their limits and bounds in Systerbecke. Now how it came wholly within these few years under the crown of Sweden▪ shall hereafter in its proper place appear. In this Carelia is that strong city Wiburg, Wiburg, a famous staple or mart town for merchants, exceeding well fortified with strong walls, and deep large motes round about, and a strong castle in the same. This same City have the Russians often (but in vain) besieged with 100000. armed men. Rexholmia, Rexholmia. by the Swedish corruptly so called, and by the Russians, Carologorod, or the fort or fortress of Carelia is seated very strongly in two little Lands, at the mouth of the river Wexen, in the one of which is seated the city, and in the other the castle. The soil is very fruitful, especially such places as adjoin next unto the great lake Ladesco Ozera: but 15. or 20. miles further from the lake, it is so marshy and fenny, that the mountainous and hilly parts thereof will only bear come, for the which cause the inhabitants there live most upon fish and wild beasts, Greatest lake of all Europe. and this aforementioned lake is one of the greatest of all Europe, as being above 190. miles in length, and about 80. in breadth, and of this lake, about the fifth part only belongs to the Russian Prince, and all the rest to the Crown of Sweden. In this great lake, besides the great abundance of Salmon and other fishes, there is there caught a little fish also little bigger than a herring, and in their language called Ladog (no where else in all Russia, but there to be found) from whence this lake takes the denomination. A peculiar fish. Rubies. In the country of Rexholme, are some rubies found. Next Carelia, Ingria. follows both in the order of nature and situation the country called Ingria, which was but lately annexed to the Crown of Sweden. The soil is very fruitful in the which are many rivers full of good wholesome fish. Besides, in that country is great store of wild fowl and wild beasts of several kinds; and among these they hunt most that wild beast in Latin called Alce, Alce, Elgh, or Elent. in the Swedish language, Elgh, and in high Dutch Elent. These beasts twice a year in great troops pass over the river Nieva: for in the spring, they pass in great number out of Russia into Carelia; and in harvest again return the same way into Russia. This country hath in it many strong forts and castles, which have hitherto been accounted the keys of the Russian kingdom, and no other in all his dominions with them to be compared. Notteburg. Notteburg is the chiefest and strongest hold of all the rest, and therefore held impregnable, howbeit, at length taken in by the victorious King now reigning, as hereafter shall appear. In the same country, are also Capurio, Capurio, jamarod. jamarod, Castles not only strong by nature, but very well furnished also by the art of man. The last of all the Provinces belonging to this Crown and Kingdom of Sweden, is called Esthonia, being a part of that vast country, called Livonia, and hath not been under the Swedish government above 60 and odd years, Esthonia. How it came first under the Swedish Crown. and by this means came first under that jurisdiction. Certain Nobles who took upon them to propagate the Christian religion being sent for into Livonia, forgetting the errand they came about, gave themselves wholly over to carnal lust, and gluttony, and drunkenness; and withal keeping the inhabitants in such a base and slavish subjection, that they seemed rather to command over beasts than men. And for this cause, God the avenger of all wrongs, and punisher of all wickedness stirred up Basilius the tyrant of Muscovia to suppress their insolency and punish their pride, who subdued a great part of Livonia, destroying all in their way that made resistance, with fire and sword. These poor Livonians now perceiving themselves pu● to such a straight, implored the aid of the Emperor Charles the 5. keeping then a diet, or general meeting of the whole estates of the Empire at Ausbourg 1551. this country then being a member of the Empire. The Emperor then, distracted with other wars, not being able to send them any succour, wished them to seek for succour and and aid of the king of Sweden and other neighbouring Princes. The Revalians therefore, and the Osclians demand aid of the king of Denmark, (Revalia being heretofore built by Valdemarus, a King of Denmark, and from him received their privileges) howbeit to no end And therefore finding no sudden succour against so mighty and potent a Prince, they were constrained to implore aid of Ericus 14. king of Sweden, and therefore in the year 1561. freely submitted themselves under his obedience; which petition of theirs notwithstanding, his father Gustavus had in his life time denied: and therefore some are of opinion that this king Ericus brought upon himself and successors a great deal of trouble. His son john was as well successor to this quarrel as to the kingdom, and took from the Russian many of his strong holds. Provinces of this country The Provinces of this country of Esthionia are, Revalia towards the North, seated near unto the Finnicke gulf▪ vizia in which are these places, Refenburgh, Tolsburgh, and Borholme, Alentakia, where is that famous merchant staple, Naruia and Nystot; ●erviai where is Wittensleyn and Lais: and Vickia, where are Hapsal, Lebal and Lode. And to this Esthionia belong these Islands also: Dagho, Orinso, Nuko, Wrango, Odensholme, Nargo, Vifso, and the one and other Nogho; the inhabitants of which places, as also of Osilea, and most of the maritime parts of the continent speak the Swedish language. Five several languages in Livonia. In this great country of Livonia besides the Swedish, there are yet four other several languages spoken: the Germane or high Dutch, used by the Nobles and better sort: in the North-parts towards the Finnicke gulf the Estthionian or Finnicke: in the mediterranean parts the Livonians, being now almost quite worn out: and finally in the South parts thereof they use the Letticke speech, or of the country of Lettow, which the people Eureles likewise use, the which is as it were a hodgepodge of many several languages mingle together. And these languages differ not only in dialects, but wholly and totally one from another. This whole country of Livonia, and consequently this Esthionia abound with all such things as are necessary for the life of man, and are usually to be found in these Northern climates. And so much shall suffice shortly to have said concerning the description of the country of Sweden, and Provinces subject to the Swedish crown. CHAP. III. Of the nature, manners; and customs of the Suecians or Swedish, and into how many ranks or degrees all these people are divided. THis people is reasonable witty and understanding, Nature of the inhabitants. and that not only for learning and understanding of any mechanical trade, but eve for the learning of the arts and sciences, as also any outlandish tongues whatsoever. For such as are of any eminent rank and degree, or competent means, content not themselves with their Latin tongue and knowledge of the liberal arts. but give themselves also very much to the learning of the german or high Dutch & French tongues. In former times their manners & conditions were very plain and homely, and although now somewhat declining from former simplicity, yet are they far from that height of luxury and pride, Not so vicious as many other Nations. whereunto many other nations are now so much addicted. The apparel of the vulgar sort is but meant; but the Gentility are now somewhat given to follow outlandish fashions, Apparel of this people. Their buildings. and to emulate their equals. Private men's houses as well in towns as the country, are for the most part, built low and of wood, and that both for warmth, and for avoiding the dint of great winds. In Stockeholme notwithstanding, and some other walled Cities and towns, Woodshere very frequent most of their buildings, are either of brick or freestone. The country commonly yields plenty of good corn, and might yield more, if some of those vast unprofitable woods were cut down, howbeit there is there seldom felt any scarcity of corn, unless sometimes the year prove very unseasonable, which in hotter climates cometh also sometimes to pass: Bread of the bark of trees and in such a case the countrypeople are sometimes forced to make bread of the bark of the fir and pine-trees, which they esteem very wholesome, agreeing well with their stomaches, and free from any malign quality. Fish and flesh is here very plentiful, howbeit neither in great request fresh, but either salted up, or dried in the sun or smoke. They are also well stored with venison, as also with wild fowl, such especially as are accounted the daintiest. The conjugal bed is among them kept undefiled and inviolable. Adultery there unknown. Their maids are not there married without consent of parents or guardians: neither yet is it lawful for any man to betrothe, or marry such a maid without the presence of 4 witnesses, two of the part of the bridegroom, and as many on the bride's side, a penalty of forty marks to be imposed upon the party that infringes this decree. Manner of their marriage and betrothing. When a maid is thus betrothed, the guardian may not object any thing to hinder the marriage, except it be very lawful, and by the laws of the land determined to be such; if he shall chance to do otherwise, the bridegroom may lawfully break open the doors, and carry her away by force if he cannot otherwise: and if there should by this means, either death or wounds ensue, no punishment shall be inflicted for wounds, or death of the resisting party. But if the other party that is about to recover his spove s, be either wounded or killed, the punishment of such a resisting person shall be double and the woman shall be esteemed lawfully rescued, and not ravished and taken by force. Again, these be the words of the lawmaker Whosoever departs from his wife, and makes a contract and agreement to cohabite with another woman, the other wife to him before lawfully married being yet alive, and this be, by sufficient witnesses, legally proved, they shall both lose their lives the man being beheaded, and the woman stoned to death. When as either man or woman dies, leaving children behind him, Manner of succeeding in inheritances. whether sons or daughters, they shall succeed in the inheritance, the son shall have two, and the daughter one part for her share: and the nephew shall have the like share as a son, and the niece as a daughter, whether their children live or dye; but withal the fifth degree is here excluded from succession. If any person dye, If the heir be absent. whose next heir is without the Realm, if the heir return within a year and a night, with sufficient proof that he is lawful heir to the deceased party, he shall as lawful heir succeed to the party deceased. But if he come not within a year and a night, the king shall be his heir, whether the goods be movable or unmoveable: and this is commonly called Dana-arf. Danae arf, If the goods given to any, be not movable, let him receive them again that gave them. If any native of the country dye, If the heir be 〈◊〉 own and the heir be known, t●●●●heritance shall be kept for the right heir: but if it be not known who is the right heir, and no word be sent from him, or else some other assurance where he is, or that he come not within a year and a day; then the King's exchequer shall receive the one half of his estate, and the other half was formerly to be employed for praying for his soul; but since the reformation of Religion converted, to other charitable uses. This people, not only of late, but even of old hath been much commended for their great hospitality in entertaining strangers; Their hospitality. the which as it is common to all these Northern people, so is it most conspicuous in the Swedish nation, it being esteemed there a heinous indignity to deny entertainment to strangers and travellers, there being among them certain particular constitutions concerning this same particular. Robberies seldom heard of among this people. Besides, they are of that sincerity, of life and conversation, and so far from wronging others, that this hath caused no small admiration to strangers and travellers passing that way; which may in this appear; that although there be very great forests found in that country, yet seldom any robberies by the high ways are amongst them heard of. In-ancient times both the Swedish and the Goths had their own proper letters and language, Gothish letters abolished. howbeit their letters have been by the first founders of Christianity in these parts quite abolished, and Latin letters put in their places. And of this some render this reason; that among these people were many books full of their ancient heathenish superstition, which superstition of theirs they thought would hardly be quite rooted out, unless as well their letters, as books written with those letters were utterly abolished. But by this means it is to be supposed, that we are likewise deprived of many ancient acts and antiquities not unworthy the knowing, which are by this means buried in eternal oblivion. And of this prerogative beyond all other people of Europe (the Grecians excepted) doth this nation brag, that they never borrowed their letters of any other nation. And it is thought that if their letters and books had until this time continued, they might have contested for antiquity with the most famous histories, either Greek or Latin. And therefore above all other nations the Goths were most admired for their opinion concerning the immortality of the soul; concerning which opinion, although there be left no ancient records; yea and if there were no testimony of strangers to witness the same; yet may this by many monuments even until this day remaining, plainly appear, the which are written upon great gravestones in this same ancient, character of Rumcke letters, as the author speaks, for in them were commonly added towards the latter end of the inscription, these words, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 That is, The Swedish much addicted to the high Dutch speech God help the soul of such a one. But as it hath fared with many other ancient nations that in continuance of time they have altered their ancient language; so hath this nation tasted likewise of the same alteration & change. For by reason of their commerce and traffic with their neighbours the high Dutch, they have also borrowed much of their language, and mingled it with their own, as may, by many arguments appear; and the better sort addict themselves to learn this language in perfection. The like hath also befallen many other nations of the Christian world. The Italian what is it else but a bastard, Italian language. composed of that pure elegant Latin spoken in Tully's time, and the rude languages of these barbarous nations, Goths, Vandals, and Longaburds, like an inundation in the declining of the Roman Empire, overflowing all Italy. The Spanish. What the Spanish tongue but the same Latin mingled with the ancient Gothish, and some others? French. And the modern French tongue so idolised of every one is but the ancient Gauls (the ancient inhabitants of that country) lan-language interlarded with many Latin words. Now that this people is a great lover of learning and letters, Gothe lovers of learning. may from hence appear, that even at this day the very country people and shepherds, have engraven upon their great staves and shepherds crooks all the principal matters set down in our ordinary almanacs in their ancient Gothicke letters: by which means they are able to understand the change and other times of the moon, bissextile or leap year, the golden number, dominical letters, and the like, concerning this subject. The subjects of all the dominion of Sweden, Six ranks o● degrees of the Swedish nation. are divided into six ranks or degrees, differing in eminency and dignity each one from the other: the Princes of the blood, the Nobles, and Gentry, the ecclesiastical estate, soldiers or martial men, the merchants and husbandmen, or labourers of the ground. The Princes of the blood are commonly the King's sons or brothers. Princes of the bloods The King's eldest son doth now, according to the custom, usually succeed, and the others are called Dukes, and livings answerable to their birth and greatness assigned them. The daughters have portions assigned them, yet not out of the King's treasure, but of the subjects purses. And although the Kingdom be now become hereditary, yet do the Kings always swear to maintain religion according to the Augustane confession. The Nobility is divided into Earls, Barons, The Nobility Their titles were not hereditary. Knights, Squires, and ordinary Gentry. The Earls were of old called jeri, and were by their Kings created, as likewise Dukes, called Hertzogh for their singular valour & worth; but none of those titles were hereditary or descended to posterity. And by reason those great men had often in rebellion opposed themselves against their natural Kings, therefore for divers years these titles were quite omitted, until such time as Ericus 14. When made hereditary. in imitation of other Kings and Potentates introduced again these titles of Earls and Barons, and made them hereditary to posterity. As for Knights they ever were, as now they are also, made for their worth and proof upon the achieving of some noble exploits, and descend not to posterity, unless they succeed in their predecessors virtues and valour. As for the other Gentry, the chiefest of them are those we commonly call Squires, and of old were called aff-wapu. Out of these ranks of Nobility above mentioned are elected and chosen the supreme ministers and officers of judicature and other great employments of the Kingdom; and for this cause have great maintenance allowed them. As for the clergy and state ecclesiastical, The clergy or persons ecclesiastical it is composed of these persons following: first is the Archbishop of Vpsalia, together with seveh other Bishops; and besides these, there are yet four superintendents, who although in name they differ from the former, yet in nature & function little or nothing; and this last is most commonly the highest title among the Protestant Churches beyond the seas, as well Lutherans or others. So these Bishops and I superintendents were adjoined the Canons, Prebends, etc. and under them Ministers and Preachers of every Parish. Bishops lived like Princes in Sweden. The Bishops in former times were possessors of many strong holds and Castles, and great livings, and were exceeding rich, by reason whereof they were able to live like great Princes (as at this day in Germany and other places is to be seen) by this means they became so haughty, and insolent, that sometimes they waged war with their own natural Princes, sometimes expelling them out of their kingdom. For this cause Gustavus the 1. of that name, lest the like should befall himself or his successors, assembled the whole estates of his kingdom to take counsel against the Bishops then making preparation for an open rebellion; and by their advice and consent annexed unto the Crown their lands and possessions, together with all their strong holds and Castles, reserving for these ecclesiastical persons some part as well of the tithes as other revenues, to be for them a fit and competent maintenance. In former time these Bishops had place among the chief Senators and counsellors of the kingdom, and the Archbishop of Vpsalia, and sometimes also the Bishop of Lincopia assumed unto themselves the title of Primate of the whole Kingdom; for the which cause in those days this dignity was by great Nobles sued for: but since this Kingdom made profession of the reformed Religion, the clergy of highest title meddle only with Church-affaires; and now men's sons of the meanest degree and birth, merchants or husbandmen's are admitted unto such functions. And yet this privilege they still enjoy, that in every parliament they have a voice as well as any of the Nobility or others. Next follow the military forces as well horse as foot, The military forces. which notwithstanding consist not of foreign mercenary forces: For the foot forces are culled and picked out from among the choicest youth of the kingdom, The trained ●ands, whereof consist the foot forcet, by decimation, or taking every tenth man. After they are once enroled, they are not only freed from all subsidies, impositions, or other payments whatsoever, but have also a yearly stipend allowed them of the king, who causeth certain commanders for this same purpose appointed (being first furnished with all manner of weapons) for certain years to train them up at home, in the mean time enuring them to endure all manner of hardship, and such toil and labour as sold eours are wont in war to endure; while in the mean time the old bands (if need so require) be employed in foreign expeditions. And thus if cometh to pass, that although the King carry never so great an army out of the country against a foreign enemy, yet is the kingdom never left unfurnished of sufficient defence, ready to serve upon all occasions, and by this means there is the less use of mercenary soldiers, unless upon urgent and extraordinary occasion, as now in this great and memorable expedition against the Austrian house, and the whole Catholic league. It need not therefore seem strange, that this great King hath even in our memories waged war alone and the same time against all his three potent neighbours, the king of Poland, of Denmark, and the great Prince or Duke of Russia. For whensoever his forces are either wearied or worn out, he is able presently to exchange with a new supply, who being already enured to hardship and military labour and toil, are able to undergo any difficulty whatsoever. Their horse-forces are raised both from among the Gentry and the common people. The horse forces, and how raised. The Nobles according to the greatness of their Lordships and lands maintain many horsemen for the defence of the country: and besides these, the commons of every Province possessing rich Manors or Farms, to free themselves from all tributes, and taxes maintain according to their means, certain horsemen under the command of the Captain of that place where he liveth. The fifth degree, Merchants. rank or order is of merchants inhabiting cities and towns. These both bring in, and carry out of the kingdom divers merchandizabte commodities, bought first of the natural inhabitants, from whence they gather no small gain. Now these cities and merchant staples have among them certain peculiar municipal laws and constitutions, derived from the law of the most ancient city Bitia, the which about 600. years ago was the seat Royal where the King kept his Court, Certain laws and constitutions have been appointed for traffic and commerce. and the chief staple of of the whole kingdom. Each of these cities and towns enjoyeth also certain particular privileges, and very laudable constitutions, by which it was ordained and determined after what manner the mediterranean cities should traffic and trade with the inhabitants and maritime, to the end that each place might be an indifferent sharer in the gain: and besides, this laudable constitution was also enacted, that the benefit, gain, or rising of one City should not prove the ruin of another. But these laudable laws and wholesome constitutions by reason of so many wars and broils wherewith this kingdom hath so often been troubled, have been by the governor's of this kingdom now for a long time neglected; and by this means many disorders are by little and little crept into their traffic and commerce. And therefore this illustrious and victorious king Gustavus Adolphus now reigning, to testify and make known his love and fatherly affection to his country, in restoring and repairing the ruins and breaches of the commonwealth, among many other things, did again as it were, revive, and put life into those now almost dead laws, and enlarge the same; the which if afterwards they shall be duly observed, no doubt but these cities will soon again return ●o their former splendour and dignity. The last rank and degree among this people, is that of husbandman, Husbandmen. the which although lowest in degree, yet not of lest use and necessity, a being the very ground and foundation of all the rest, and who furnish all the others, both with food and raiment. Freeholders'. And of these there are yet two sorts: the first are freeholders', having their lands and possessions hereditary, and out of the which they use to pay something yearly to the king, the which payment is seldom raised to any higher rate; and withal, this privilege hath been granted them of old, that if they be able to furnish themselves with a good horse and complete armour, being able to serve the king in his wars, so long as they, or yet any of their sons serve in this kind, their Manors or Farms are freed from any manner of payments to the king; and this is the reason why many from their very cradle, as it were, apply themselves to military affairs; by which means also the number of the king's horsemen is wonderfully increased. workers in the mines. Among these are also to be ranked such as work in mines in the mountainous and hilly places of the kingdom, who thereby purchase to themselves no small gain, and are for the most part very rich. The rest of these country people are Farmers, Farmers. who, although besides the set rents they pay their landlords, they perform likewise diverse services; yet by reason of the great benefit and commodity they make by fishing, fowling, and of wood of the forests, they reap no small commodity, whereby they are enabled to live in very good fashion recording to their own rank and degree. For this is to be understood, that this whole kingdom aboundeth with lakes and rivers, full of very wholesome fishes; besides the abundance of woods, which partly in regard of their number, and partly by reason of the remoteness, yield oftentimes but small benefit to the owners: and for the same reason no where are fish and fowl, as also hares cheaper than in this kingdom. It is likewise to be observed, that in all Parliaments, They have a voice in Parliament. the country people, this last and sixth rank I mean, have a voice as well as any of the others. And thus it cometh to pass, that the meanest or lowest degree is not neglected, nor no well deserving subject hindered to climb to as high a pitch of honour, as his virtues can attain unto. CHAP. four Of the Politic and civil government of the Kingdom of Sweden. IN ancient times each Province of this kingdom had its several laws and constitutions, whereof, as it is supposed, there were divers authors, whose names, by reason of the long tract of time, are now for the most part buried in oblivion. And the Vestrogothian laws are so ancient, that it is apparent they were made at such times as the Goths departed out of this kingdom, Antiquities of the Vestrogothian laws or at least shortly after: for there is mention made of the Goths inhabiting Greece and Thracia: to wit, that none of them should enjoy or possess any of their ancient possessions in their own country, unless they would return and dwell there. And it is apparent that they dwelled there before the times of Alexander the great, who as he affirmed, were to be shunned and taken heed of. Besides, even before the incarnation of our Lord and Saviour, they were such a terror to the Romans, that they were by them much hindered from enlarging their dominion beyond the Danubius. Now these laws do for the most part agree with the laws of the Visigoths, set down by Ifidorus, although they be far shorter; for the which cause it is not unlike that these same laws of Isidrus were at the first collected out of the constitutions of the Vestrogoths, and after, as the titles testify enlarged by the kings of the Visigoths of Spain. Out of all these Provincial laws and other constitutions of this kingdom, did the Bishops and Senators thereof above 270 years ago compile this general law, very agreeable to the law of nature, and not much differing from the civil law, but that by this controverted cases are far speedilier ended. But before we speak any thing concerning their laws, we will premit some generalities. In this kingdom therefore there are several principal colleges or societics, The whole government of this Kingdom comprehended in certain societies or colleges. a Colleges or society of justice. which comprehend the whole government of the same. The first of these is called the College of justice, in the which o'er three degrees or ranks: the supreme, the middle most, and lowest of all. In this supreme or highest rank or order, are the noble Senators of the kingdom; in the next are such as they call Lagman; and in Latin Nomophy laces, as if we should say; Recorders or Registers. In the third rank or order are the judges of particular cities or towns, being men of good esteem, and of honest life and conversation, and not unskilful in the laws of the land. In this supreme court are judged causes of the whole kingdom, as well criminal as civil; and to this supreme court, the subject may from any inferior Court of the kingdom appeal, whereas they determine and judge whether the inferior court hath judged right or no; and from this court there is no appeal, unless it be to the king himself, in whosepower it is either to qualify the punishment, or to remit the offence. Under this suprame court are immediately subjected and subordinate two others, that of criminal causes, and that of the court or chamber. The next to this college is the college of war, 2 College or society is that of war, or court Martial. wherein are handled all Marshal or Military affairs, and is called the Court marshal or martial. To this court belongs the Council of War. wherein are all military matters deliberated and discussed; and over this court presides the great Marshal1 of the kingdom. His office is, when the king cannot be present in his own person, as general to command over the whole army. This great officer hath with him joined diverse other associates and colleagues, amongst whom is chiefly he whom they call Riick-seirs Siigmeister, as much to say, as master of the Ordnance. Besides, there is also a field marshal, and under him many other commanders, both of the horse and foot forces. The third college or court it that of the Chancery; 3 College, the court of the Chancery in which are handled all manner of causes both civil and ecclesiastical. In this Court presides the Lord Chancellor of the kingdom, The Lord Chancellors office. who hath the chief charge of the broad seal, receiveth and readeth all letters sent to the king, and dispatcheth answers. Besides, in the counsel he propoundeth such heads as they are to consult about: and withal he hath the charge of setting down and publishing all Proclamations; all decrees and acts of Parliament. He is also judge of all private complaints and appeals from inferior courts to the King: and finally, he hath the oversight of all the Secretaries, Clerks, Religious persons, and ecclesiastical ceremonies; and all controversies and negotiations with foreign Princes, war, peace, and truce receiving messages from foreign Ambassadors, and dispatching their answers. This great officer hath joined with him for associates or colleagues, a Vicechancellor: and divers counsellors of the Chancery, besides the king's Secretaries, with divers others. The fourth College or Court is that of the Admiralty, College, me Admiral court. over which is the great Lord Admiral; whose office is to oversee the Navy royal, and to see that it be in a readiness, with all things thereto belonging, against the time of need. He hath under him a Vide-admiral, besides Captains and Commanders of every ship. To his court belong all causes concerning trespasses against constitutions made for the preservation of the Navy-royal, and many other things concerning maritime affairs. The fifth and last is the Exchequer, or, as the French call it, 5 College is the Exchequer. the chamber of accounts, where are received all the revenues belonging to the crown, tributes, customs, subsidies, etc. Over this Court presides the Lord Treasurer of the kingdom, who hath also joined with him in commission two others of the Nobility; and to this court belong also a number of clerks, who are chosen out of the inferior rank of people. He hath also under his custody the royal ensigns of the kingdom, the apple, the crown, the sceptre, and the sword. He pays also all the king's army, and so doth he all the king's servants their wages, In a word he takes all, and pays all, being accountable to no body, but to the king himself. Amongst all the great officers of the kingdom, the Lord Martial is accounted the chief, The Lord Marshals office. being master of the king's household, and administrator or orderer of the great counsel; who by the king's authority, hath power to assemble the whole States of the land, to command silence and attention, to give leave to speak in Parliament, to welcome ofrreine Ambassadors, and to provide things necessary for their entertainment. To his office also it belongeth to remove out of the counsel such as belong not thereunto, and to see the King's decrees, concerning matters of defamation, and punishment of death duly put in execution. He supplies also the place of the matter of the ceremonies, and suppresseth all tumults and disorders. To him belongeth also the oversight of the king's household and domestical servants, and to correct the offenders. And finally, in all public meetings he bears the great staff before the king. Next unto him in dignity is esteemed the great Lord Constable, the field Martial, the great Sewer, the Lord Chamberlain, etc. Moreover, Particular division of the Provinces into smaller parts. this whole kingdom is not only divided into several Province; Duchies, and Counties, but besides each Province is again subdivided into certain territories or jurisdictions, commonly called Haradh, of the which, some contain moe, and some fewer parishes. Each Province again hath its governor or lieutenant called Landz-herren, Several judges. or State-haller; and each territory or jurisdiction hath a judge called Leensman; and besides, each parish hath a judge called Nembdarius, or Nembdemannus. Now all these are distinct offices, and subordinate one to another, and so may the plantise appeal from one inferior court, to a next superior in due order and form. The supreme governor or magistrate of the Province is called Legifer, The supreme judge Legifer as it were a lawgiver and judge, and are esteemed in dignity next unto the king, as being his judges and vicegerents. Now as many as are the Provinces, as many are there of these supreme judges: to eleven, under whom are again above 300. Vicounties, or particular jurisdictions; not unlike the courts of Parliament of France, and the multitude of presidial courts. But the difference is, that these supreme judges visit every year a great part of their Province, until all their Provinces be visited, and when they have traveled the round, they return again where they first began (which the French Parliaments do not) much after the manner of the judge's circuits in this kingdom. And as this course is very convenient for the remedying of the public diseases of the kingdom; so is it also some ease to the subject, these judges demanding the tribute and taxes by turns, and not all at once, of such territories and parishes as they visit, that so the people be not all, burdened at one and the same time. It is yet further to be observed, that by the ancient customs and constitutions of this kingdom, besides all these aforementioned courts, there was yet one general court commanded to be kept in four eminent places of the kingdom once or twice a year, for determining and finishing some cases, which by the other judges had not been, judicium praetoriale. or could not so well be decided. And this they call judicium Praetoriale, which was a meeting of many judges together, where controversies were duly and strictly examined, and sentence according to equity pronounced. This court was by Charles the ninth, father to this now reigning king Gustavus Adolphus ordained to be kept twice a year, once in Vpsalia, in winter at the time of a great fair then kept; and the other about Saint Peter's day in summer. The judges were without fail to appear at the place appointed in proper person six weeks after the publication of such a meeting. Now whatsoever was in this pretoriall court determined betwixt party and party, was to stand firm and inviolable for ever without appeal to any other court whatsoever. And because the king will be sure, The Ral or Court Royal. that justice be duly executed in all his dominions, therefore besides all these former courts, there is yet another great and solemn court sometimes kept, called the court Royal or Ral; whereas either the king in proper person, or else a deputy or special commissioner hears all the grievances betwixt party and party: and this is a court of reformation, wherein some things which in other courts have not been so well ordered, are here reform and amended. And this court I take to be much like that solemn court sometimes kept in the kingdom of Scotland, justice's heir of Scotland. called the justice air, wherein very small offences were severely punished. Now the king is six weeks before the time of sitting to intimate the same to his subjects. And within 14 days after, whosoever hath a complaint against any, he must cause summon his adversary to appear at the day and place appointed by the king's letters, to that purpose to be read in the first Plac it or Court; or where there is none kept, then at the next Parish Church. Now if any upon this summons shall refuse to appear, the king or his vicegerent, shall notwithstanding his non-appearance, (unless very just cause may be showed) proceed to sentence against him. Now as concerning their particular laws, statutes, and ordinances, the times and turns of their meetings in Courts of justice, the manner of choosing their judges, their oaths, and what by them to be observed, as being too long and tedious for this short tractate, I willingly pass by. But if any be desirous to know their particular statute laws, he may have recourse to their history, and such as have of set purpose collected and set them down in order. I proceed now to speak of the might and power of this great king, and then by what means it is maintained. CHAP. V. Of the might and power of the King of Sweden, as well by Sea as by land. ANd first for his sea forces, it is certain that the king of Sweden (besides his galleys and small ships, Sea forces. whereof in those seas he possesseth no small number) hath been many years ago furnished with fifty brave war-ships, Number of Ships. upon all occasions ready for service; and many of them furnished with 60. 70. or 80. great pieces of brass Ordnance; and now questionless he is furnished with a far greater number. Neither yet is it any hard matter for him to make up the number of 6000 sail within his dominions, 〈…〉 Mariness and Sailors. not of rowers and ordinary watermen I mean, but even of expert sailors, pilots, masters of ships, master's mates, etc. For all that tract about the sea coast of Finland, being at least 40, miles in length, together with the coast of the Redeucke sea twice as long, besides a number of Lands afford the inhabitants daily means of no small commerce and traffiking by sea; by which means the mariners may easily become both bold and expert. Besides, their maintenance is not very chargeable to the king: for the most of their pay is in fish, flesh, butter and cheese, rice and barley, such commodities as many of his countries yield him for tribute. These ships in time of peace use to be distributed into divers parts of the kingdom. The greatest commonly lie in Stockholme haven, which Port is so fenced against all winds, that there they may safely ride against all winds without any anchors: besides, that there they are also free from any hostile invasion, there being no access thither for any ships but by 24. miles sailing, and that by a number of dangerous rocks. The rest of those ships are dispersed into divers other harbours, especially those of Finland, that so they may be always in a readiness, if peradventure the Russian should make any sudden stir. Some of them again are bestowed in such ports and haven towns whereas they may inhibit the importation of such commodities out of high Germany, as might tend to the ruin of the kingdom: and therefore the king's majesty suffereth no ship to come from thence, unless they have first a pass granted them, subscribed with his majesty's own hand; the which the Merchants of Lubeck often purchase at a round rate. And to conclude, this king is very powerful by sea. And no less powerful is he also by land: His land forces. for he is able in a short space from among his own subjects to raise a great army of foot, who by reason of their frequent conflicts sometimes with the Dane, sometimes with the Russian, but especially with the Polonian, have purchased unto themselves no small experience in military affair, having infinitely improved the valour and prowess derived unto them by their ancestors. This king may in a fortnight's space call out twelve legions of well experienced soldiers, (reckoning three thousand to a legion) and may carry them whither he list out of the kingdom, yea if it were even to the very Indians, neither yet is he unfurnished of choice, able, and skilful horsemen as well in Sweden as in Finland, both these countries being well furnished with exceeding good horses, the which how far in bulk of body inferior to those of high Germany, The horse, not big in bulk. and other nations, so far perhaps do they again surpass them in bounty. And in truth they are very stout, and in consideration of their low stature, exceeding strong, being accustomed to hard labour, and easily undergoing any travel or toil, and withal contented with any food. The lowness of their stature hath been the sole cause that heretofore this king hath most commonly hired his horsemen out of high Germany, This king hireth commonly his horsemen. when he was to wage war against any potent enemy. Now how great forces both of horse, & foot, this mighty Prince is able to bring into the field, may not only by his late war against the Polonian, but by this late and last expedition into Germany, undertaken for the freeing of many distressed Princes and people from the tyranny of the Austrian house, and restoring them again to their ancient inheritances, easily be evidenced and witnessed unto us. After ages no doubt will stand amazed at the multitude of his valiant acts, with so great celerity, valour, and magnanimity achieved in so short a time, who may well with that great conqueror julius Cesar, say, veni, vidi, vici; and grateful posterity will eternize his name so long as sun and moon shall endure, and bless the time that so pious and prosperous a Prince was borne to the Christian world. Many things were some years ago related to the Pope by his Nuncio concerning the multitude and distribution of the military forces of this kingdom; concerning their pay also, military discipline, etc. all which, although since that time much improved, yet for the present I let pass, and proceed to other matters. CHAP. VI Of customs and tribute belonging to the king of Sweden. NOW to maintain all this great charge of war and other expenses, there must be some means whereby it may be effected. Customs, threefold. For this purpose therefore there are certain tributes and customs yearly paid into the king's coffers: and these are of three sorts. Customs arising from his mines. The first sort of tribute is that which is raised of his mines; out of the which not only are digged iron, copper and lead in great abundance, but even silver also, of the which are coined the Swedish dollars, for fineness of mettle inferior to no other silver whatsoever. Now some of these mines are digged at the kings own cost and charges, and some at the cost of private persons. Of the first the king hath the whole benefit, and of the latter but the tenth part, as of other commodities. Of two copper Mines only, at this time the king receives a very great benefit; and besides, by reason of this abundance of brass and copper, it cometh to pass that he is so well able to furnish himself with brass Ordnance; and that not for his Castles and Forts only, but for his Ships also: Great number of brass Ordnance. the sum whereof is no less than 8000. at the least: and in the Castle of Stockeholme alone, there are at least 400. great pieces of brass Ordnance, and more might yet be made if there were any need. And if the country people did not oftentimes conceal some mines newly found out, the profit which would arise out of these mines would amount to a far greater sum. Customs & revenues arifing from the fruits of the earth. The next way by which the king's revenues are increased, is from the fruits of the earth, and his customs as well by sea as by land: for the king hath the tithes of all manner of grain, wheat, rye, barley, etc. as also of butter & cheese of beasts, hides, fish, and the like; the certainty of which revenues although it be not to us assuredly known; yet no question ariseth it to no small sum, and as is credible, to little less than 9 or 10. millions say their writers but this must be understood of their own coin and account, not of Sterline money. Now concerning his customs, Customs of all manner of merchandise. the king receiveth custom of all wares transported out of the kingdom, or imported into the same. And that there be no want of good silver coin within the kingdom, this order hath been for many years ago established; to wit, that for every hundreth dollars worth of merchandise transported out of the kingdom, they shall pay into the customhouse ten silver dollars in kind, or else ten ounces of silver; for the which they receive in present pay the worth in other small copper coin of Swedish money currant within the kingdom. And for every hundreth dollars worth of wares so transported out of the kingdom, the merchant is tied to bring into the kingdom again the worth of 90. dollars of such wares as are useful for the kingdom; and for these 90. dollars worth of wares, they are to pay into the customhouse ten dollars, or ten ounces of silver, of else the worth thereof in other money. And whosoever shall fail in any of the premises, for the first fault he shall pay 20 Swedish marks; and the next time all his wares shall be confiscate. Customs of furs and rich skins. As for the revenue and custom of rich skins and furs, it is sometimes more, and sometimes less, according to the intenseness and remissness of the cold, and the abundance of snow. For the greater is the snow, the greater number of these wild beasts are taken. Out of the country of Lapland the Northermost of all his Provinces the king receives a great number of these skins or rich furs. And to the end he be not cozened, he sendeth thither every year an officer, being a clerk, who so narrowly inquireth into the number of these beasts so killed, that very hardly can he be deceived. These rich furs the king disposeth of among his kindred and friends; and sometimes also he exchangeth them with merchants, for other wares wherewith they furnish his Court. The third sort of revenue consisteth in voluntary or arbitrary contributions, answerable to our subsidies and fifteen in this kingdom. The third fort of custom or revenue, arbitrary or voluntary contributions. For whensoever the king is to undertake a war offensive or defensive, he calls a Parliament, wherein he acquainteth the subject with his purpose, and what charges it is like to arise unto: and then the States of the kingdom agree upon a certain sum answerable to the business to be undertaken. But the Nobles and chief Gentry, and their tenants are for the most part freed from these impositions, unless upon very urgent and important occasions. But if there be an extreme necessity, and there be not otherwise sufficient supply, than their vassals and tenants are tied to pay half of the tax or subsidy, as well as those who are immediately subject to the king himself. Besides all this, the subject is tied to contribute to the marriage of the king's daughters, whose do wry hath been hitherto 100000. dollars, near upon 40000. pound sterling money, besides plate and other movables; unto the which nevertheless the king may add at his pleasure as he seeth occasion. And whensoever the king permits any of his Court deserving subjects to any preferment, he commonly assigns him a certain number of country people who are esteemed as his vassals and subjects, and are to do him homage, and pay him tribute and certain duties. CHAP. VII. Of the Kings of this country of Sweden, with some of their chief and memorable Acts. MOst of the Northern nations have time, out of mind had their Kings by election: as the Dane, Swedish, Polonian and Bohemian. The kings of Sweden have been until of late years elective. And although it was a matter of no small difficulty among barbarous nations, where Mars was more honoured than Minerva, and good literature (the means to eternize heroical worth) scarce heard of in these remote regions, to find out any thing concerning their king's worth the writing; yet have we the names of divers kings of that nation recorded of old; how be it a constant and continued succession without any interruption we cannot read of. 1 In the first place than they tell us that Magog son to japhet, Neahs' son, 1 King Magog the founder of the Scythian nation in Europe, having passed over the Venedicke gulf into Gothland (by the Latins afterward called by the name of Scythia) reigned over those people called Get. Others, and that of the more learned ascribe rather the original of the Goths to Gomer japhets' eldest son, and make those two nations Goths and Get, different and distinct nations. 2 Unto Magog, as they write, 2 Swennus. succeeded Swennus, from whom the nation took the name. 3 Getbar. 4 Vbbo, who as they write, 3 Getbar. builded Vpsalia before Abraham was borne. 4 Vbbo. And from that time until our Lord and Saviour they reckon up 35. kings, and distinguish them all by their several names; and many of those, for their sanctity of life, and conspicuous and eminent virtues, were by the rude rhymes of those days highly commended. And besides these, divers, other kings are yet recorded to have reigned over those, who under the command of one Berico, for fear of intestine war, fled their own country, and among those mention is made of one king of the Geteses in order. 22 Colison by name, to whom Augustus Cesar betrothed his daughter julia; about the which time also Antonius demanded his daughter in marriage, as may clearly appear by Suetonius in the life of Augustus. Moreover, about the time of our Saviour reigned Ericus the third, surnamed Disertus, who for his worth and merit attained to this government. 40 Ericus the 3. To this Ericus succeeded to the government of the Swedish nation, 41 Godrichus his son; 41 Goodrichus and next to him 42 Haldanus; 42 Haldanus. during the reign of this king, lived that monster of strength, for the same cause called Starcherus, who is said at singular combats to have killed that great champion Ham, which afterwards gave denomination to that famous City Hamburg. After those is a long catalogue of their kings recorded, but nothing concerning their acts worth the reading recorded, that nation then standing more upon the point of valour and honour, then upon penning of them for posterity. But far more fortunate have they been in their foreign expeditions and transmigrations, when as like a great deluge and inundation they overflowed a great part of the world under the names of Ostrogoths, and Westrogoths, and under the commandment of Theodoricus, Attlalariake, Totila, Ataulphus, etc. whose martial and heroical exploits the Romans highly advancing, and lest they should conceal their own worth, have published to all posterity. Under Biorno their 100 homebred king, 100 Biorno. Jews son to Charles the great, swaying the sceptre of the Western Empirethis, nation of Sweden first received the Christian faith, Sanctus Augerius a monk of Gorbey much furthering then this so worthy a work, Author est Ludolphus de Bchenburg in libro de zelo religionis Christianae. CHAP. VIII. 124 ERicus Sanctus or the holy, 124 Ericus Sanctus 4. after whom the posterity of Suercherus and Ericus by turns with much contention, as the one or the other grew strongest usurped the government. This pious Prince, notwithstanding his great agnitie and piety, and pains taken in an expedition to convert the Finlanders to the faith, had but a slender reward, being bulled by a conspiracy of some of his Nobility, Henry King of Denmark, and Magnus his son being the ringleaders of this faction An. 1160. 125 Charles son to Stercherus, 125 Charles● having reigned two years during the reign of Ericus over the Ostrogoths (who in the election of a king dissenting from the Swedish had chosen one of their own) and afterwards for the space of 8. years, very religiously and virtuously over both kingdoms, but being now hated by reason of his friendship with the Dane, was at length by Canutus son to S. Ericus, (being by some persuaded that this Charles with the help of the Dane had contrived his father's death) killed in in the Island of Visnuga 11●8. 126 Canutus son to S. 126 Canutus. Ericus, having done penance for kill king Charles, and being by the discreet counsel of the Bishop of Lunden, diverted from assailing the Dane, dies 1192. 127 Stercherus son to Charles, 127 Stercherus a martial man, wise and eloquent, itching for revenge on the posterity of Canutus, having altered his former nature, & gathered great forces out of Denmark, was at length with his whole army utterly overthrown, and again in another bloody battle himself killed 1210. 128 Ericus son to Canutus having escaped Stercherus his hands, 128 Ericus 3. reigned very prosperously for the space of 7. years, the which 7 years histories mention to have been exceeding fruitful; but in the eight▪ year with the death of their king, this fruitfulness was also finished 1216. 129 john son to Stercherus, 129 john 1. a very pious young man, of exceeding great hopes, died notwithstanding within three years after 1222. 130 Ericus Balbus son to the nephew of S. Ericus. 130 Ericus Balbus. Against him conspires his kinsman Folchingus, expelling him out of his kingdom, but within a short space the tide turning, he being killed, he left Ericus the peaceable possession of the kingdom; after this he converts his forces against the Tavastians', sending against them the Prince of the Ostrogoths, a man of very eminent virtues; whom after he had subdued and converted, he dies 1150. 131 Valdemarus, by means of a valiant soldier juanus Blaa, during his father's absence, was elected king. The father being returned from this expedition against the Tavastians', alleged, that the crown was rather due to himself then to his son: but being terrified by the stout answer of this brave soldier (who affirmed that the could shake a king of Sweden out of his jerkin, if as Birgerus alleged, there should want one to succeed) he was contented to be his son's governor, wherein he discharged himself very worthily. But by the father's death; 131 Valdemarus this young king being now left to himself, by the persuasion of his wife being a Dane, he deals very harshly with his own brothers, until at length he was taken prisoner by his brother Magnus, being therein borne out by the Swedish themselves, and was also shortly after by the Peers of the kingdom deprived of the kingdom of Gothland, which his brother's kindness had hitherto suffered him to enjoy. 132 Magnus Ladolos in the year 1276 succeeded his brother: 132 Magnus Ladolos 1. Valdemarus, by the Danes means notwithstanding not ceasing still to molest him, yet after a once or twice dissembled reconciliation, at length by the captivity of Valdemarus the controversy was composed. He much wronged himself in setting strangers, the Danes especially, over the affairs of the kingdom: for at a friendly feast (as he supposed) the Danes, not regarding sacred hospitality, took him prisoner. And besides, he drew upon himself the implacable hatred of the whole Swedish nation, but principally of the family of Folchingus, against whom he bore a great grudge: and therefore having cunningly under the colour of friendship invited them to a feast, he murdered those of chief note, and almost extinguished the whole race of Folchingus. But towards the latter end of his life, he much reform his former carriage, giving himself wholly to God's worship and service, died in the I'll of Visingia, having left his son to succeed him, and Turgillus Canuti to be his governor and guide. 133 Birgerus son to Magnus, 133 Birgerus. a dishonour both to himself, and the whole Swedish nation, the ruin and overthrow of his own brethren (a prodigious and unnatural part) the beginning of his reign having promised better proceedings, after the rejecting of Turgillus, his cruel nature began to discover itself. For having at first accused his brethren of treason, he afterwards by force of arms assaulted them, by whom being first taken prisoner, after a counterfeit reconciliation, having invited them to a feast, he lays violent hands on them, thrusts them into a dungeon there to dye of famine; and lest there should be any hope of succour, throws the key into a deep river running hard by. The which barbarous and inhuman cruelty, being odious both to the Swedish and Gothish nation, they took arms and expelled him out of the kingdom, who together with his wife, died miserably in Denmark. 134 Magnus Smech, son to Ericus slain by his brother Birgerus, 134. Magnus Smech. in the year 1319. succeeded in the government, who no whit terrified by his Uncle's example, trod still in the same footsteps; in so much that for his contempt of religion, prodigious lust and barbarous cruelty, he was called a robber or spoiler (Predo) which was the elegy he purchased to himself, making a show that he would admit of his son Ericus for a consort in his government, secretly suborns one to kill him; which being prevented, yet his own mother Blanca a French woman poisons him. Being taken prisoner by Haguinus the second king of Norway, but presently again let go, he flies into Denmark, and causing intercept his son's spouse Duchess of Holstein, by force obtrudes upon him Margaret the Danes daughter: and in the mean time while he is a providing great forces against his subjects, he thunders out proscription against them. 135 But in the mean time Albert of Meckelburg, 135. Albert of Meckleburge. nephew to Magnus by his sister, is by the proscribed Nobles elected king, and shortly after at Stockeholme confirmed. Being now settled in the throne royal he proffers agreement to Magnus, who refusing the same, and being all for war, was at length taken prisoner, and so kept close for the space of whole seven years, until he was by his son Haguinus released. After this, being returned from a Parliament held at Wismare, he began to contemn & despise his subjects, of whom, in requital, he was as little regarded, whom now they could not endure. He was shortly after entangled in war against Queen Margaret, to whose side some did incline, wherein he was taken prisoner, and detained captive whole seven years, and at length forced to release his subjects of their oath of fidelity. 236 Margaret the Dane, 136 Margaret the Dane. and wife to Haguin king of Norway, was now in the year 1395 Queen of three kingdoms: a woman indeed of a high and magnanimous spirit, if she had bend her will the right way, & virtuous design had been the utmost end she aimed at. But she, making no more account of any oath she had sworn (whereunto notwithstanding she was very forward) then of children's sport, with insatiable covetoussnesse spoiling all, and delivering up the Castles and strong holds of the kingdom into the hands of strangers, being extremely hated of the Swedish, fled into Denmark, after she had by terrors and threatenings obtained the kingdom for one Ericus, her own sister's son, a young man about twenty four years of age. When she was admonished that she should not commit the custody of the sorts and castles of the kingdom into stranger's hands, it was her answer, keep you well your evidences, and I will have a care to keep your castles. She died and was buried at Flensburg, An. 1412. 137 Ericus Duke of Pomerania did too much relish of the perfidious practices of his aunt, 137 Ericus Duke of Pomerania 7. keeping no covenant, vexing the Nobility with with war, spoiling and impoverishing his subjects at home, and marring all commerce abroad, was therefore opposed by Engelbertus of a Noble and Princely family; and he by Danish treachery being supplanted, Carolus Canuti took upon him the government of the Realm. Having fled into Denmark, and at length odious also to the Dane, sometimes attempting, and sometimes again despairing of his return in his kingdom (which notwithstanding upon keeping of convenant was still ready to receive him) at length in his return he took in Gothland, whereby he might the more easily rob all the ships sailing towards the North. But being at length by Carolus Canuti besieged, and now not daring trust the Danes, be fled into his own country of Pomerania, and there spent the rest of his days in peace and quietness, Anno 1437. 138 Christopherus, Prince Palatine of Rhine, and Duke of Bavaria, 138 Christopherus Prince Palatine of Rhine and Duke of Bavaria. and sister's son to Ericus, against whom by the Danes means he was enticed to come; and yet not without great doubting and deliberation, and the Danes great commendation would the Peers give their assent to his election. The fair sunshine of the beginning of this Prince's reign were eftsoon by the Swedish supplanting one another overclo uded. He had once a conflict with the English, wherein he had the better; and afterwards labouring to take in Lubeck, and being disappointed of his purpose, he suffered shipwreck on the Swedish shore, after which he lost all hope of taking in these towns of the Vandals. For his lust and other wickedness the land was punished with pestilence and famine: and afterwards having by sea lost his great treasures he had with him carried out of the country, at length in Denmark he died childless 1448. 139 Carolus Canuti, 139. Carolus Canuti. after this nation had been some years without a king, was by the Peers of the land now loathing a foreign yoke, crowned king 1458. After he was come to the crown, he subdued Norway; and being afterwards invaded and assaulted by the Dane, he damnifies him exceedingly. By reason of the insolency and misdemeanour of his governor's and officers, and by the instigation of the Archbishop of Vpsalia, especially, the people of the land rebelled, and rose up in arms against him; and in the mean time that he went to Dantzick for succour from the king of Poland, they bring in and crown Christiernus king of Denmark. But in the mean time Catillus Bishop of Lincopia and nephew to the Archbishop, of a Prelate now becomes a man of war, and gathering together what forces he was able, expels out of the kingdom both Christian (who kept no covenant, nor yet performed any promise) and all his favourers and adherents: and at length in a memorable battle fought upon the ice, overthrows Christian. and puts his whole army to rout. After this the Bishop calls the king home out of Prussia, who being now returned, and having again recovered the people's love and good will, and grown now wiser to his cost, he places over them such officers as might give them better content. At length graced and adorned with as many worthy virtues as days and years in reigning, dies in 1470. After this Charles some reckon Christian for 140. john his son 141. and Christian john's son 142. although others are of opinion they were titular kings only, and rather intruders then true kings, and therefore the next shall be, 140 Steno Stir, sister's son to the aforesaid Charles, 140. Steno Stir. not only repelled Christian and his army, now approached near unto the walls of Stockeholme, but put both himself & his whole army to flight, and kept him from invading the country any more. He subdued also afterward the fame king's son john, by means of some disagreement betwixt him and Swanto by the help of the Russians and some factious people brought in and crowned. At length bringing back the captive Queen to her husband john, being then in Smalandia, having sickened at a feast, died the 30. year of his reign. A great magnanimous and virtuous Prince, but yet in this, as it were, exceeding himself, in that he refused the diadem royal being offered. 141 Suanto, 141 Suanto. Prince of the Ostrogoths, and a counsellor of the kingdom was elected king of the Suetians. Having made a confederacy with those of Lubeck, he made war against, Christerne the second, son to john (whom many, (for the hatred they bore to the son,) did earnestly desire) against whom while at he is making great preparation, he dies 1512, and of his reign the 8. He was a virtuous Prince, liberal, mild, intermingled with a grateful severity. 142 Steno Stir, 142 Steno Stir 2 younger son of Suanto succeeded in the government. This Prince by his prudence escaped the lying in wait of Christerne king of Denmark, having sent to the private conference whereunto he was solicited, Gaddus and Gustavus Ericson. Afterwards stoutly and valiantly opposing Christerne, now come into the field with a very great army, and himself valiantly fight, was at length shot thorough with a gun. He being now dead, and the Swedish dispersed and scattered, Christerne, by the Nobles of the Danish faction was crowned king; having at a banquet the very day of his coronation, killed all the Nobility by him suspected to be of the contrary faction. But by reason of his extraordinary cruelty, the same month he came, was again expelled the kingdom. Now before we proceed to the orderly succession of the ensuing kings, Something concerning the title the kings of Denmark pretend to the crown and kingdom of Sweden. something may be said concerning the king of Denmark, and the original of the claim he lays to the crown of Sweden. Christian the 1. of that name (of whom something hath been said already, the whole royal race of Denmark being now quite extinguished, of an Earl of Oldenburg, by the consent of the Peers of the kingdom, was elected king, and installed in the throne Royal, and that chiefly by the commendation of Adolphus of Holsasia his mother's brother, and afterwards there arising some broils and tumults in the kingdom of Sweden, the factious of the kingdom, of whom was chief johannes Benedictus Archbishop of Vpsalia, having before rejected their natural king Carolus Canutus: and is the pretended right the Dane claims to the kingdom of Sweden. After his decease john his son for the space of thirty two years continued king of Denmark. He was in like manner by the factious Goths elected king of Sweden, after they had rejected Steno the elder, who had succeeded his mother's brother Charles: but was in a short space after by Swanto (being the means of Henningus Gaddus Bishop of Lincopia, by the consent of the States of the land elected in the room of Steno, again driven out, and in many conflicts being still put to the worse, at length fled into Denmark. This Suanto shortly after dying, the Peers of the kingdom after great altercation (the Danish faction willing to set against him Ericus Trollus) the memory of paternal worth and virtue prevailing, made choice of Steno Stir, the younger son of the aforesaid Suanto. Two years after the death of Suanto Christian the second, Christian the 2 invades the country of Sweden. succeeded in the kingdom of Denmark, the greatest scourge that ever befell the kingdom of Sweden, who presently resolves to prosecute the pretended right, his father and grandfather had to this crown, Steno their new elected king seeing himself now, as he thought, settled in the peaceable possession of the kingdom, giving too much ear to flatterers (often too frequent in Princes Courts) and by their evil counsel seduced, committed many gross and fowl faults in his government; by which means there following an alienation of the minds of the Nobility, he lost likewise at length the love of many of the commons also. The Dane who left no wind unsailed to bring his purpose to pass, thinking it now good fishing in a muddy water, took eftsoon hold of this opportunity, and gathering together a great army, he begird Stockeholme round about: but Steno likewise with a great army opposing him, raised the siege. The wind in the mean time being contrary for his return into Denmark, for the space of three months he was put to an extreme great strait for want of provision for his army. Steno, who used all possible means to win his love and favour, with all means of necessary provision for his country into Denmark, supplied his present necessity, granting him free leave to return without any trouble or molestation. A great ingratitude. But this so great a courtesy and kindness was but ill requited. For four years after, having about some matters of great importance, as he pretended, desired private conference with Steno, he had almost yielded to go aboard the enemy's ship. Being then thus prevented, he wished Steno to send him some men of note as Ambassadors to confer with him: and having sent Gaddus and Gustavus son to Ericus, and after king, against his oath and promise, carries them both captive into Denmark. This was but the beginning of the next year's Tragedy. Having then the next year gathered together a far greater army than the former, he invaded the country of the Vestrogoths, and the battle being fought upon the ice, Steno being shot thorough the thigh with a gun, dies shortly after of this wound, upon which followed the dissipation and dispersing of the Swedish army. Immediately sfter was Christian by the Danish faction, in the principal city Stockeholme elected and crowned king: having also after a solemn manner sworn the confirmation of all their privileges, and promised immunity and pardon for whatsoever was passed. But the same day (fearing lest afterwards in his absence the sons of Steno might by the contrary faction be elected) having first commanded the gates of the City to be shut up, and invited to a feast the chief of all the Nobility of the contrary faction, in the fight of all the people, now trembling and quaking for fear, slew 94. of them, leaving their dead bodies in the great Court before the town hall for the space of three days for a terror to the people. Extreme barbarous cruelty The dead body of Steno was by the tyrants command taken out of the grave, and (as some write) after he had like a dog torn it with his teeth, commanded to burn is to ashes with the others lately killed. The inhabitants were also by the rude soldiers, without any regard off sex or age cruelly killed and murdered; and young children being hung up, their heads were cut off from their shoulders. The City was rifled and spoiled by the soldiers, and no manner of outrage and insolency omitted. After his departure from thence as some write) he went into a monastery, More than inhuman cruelty. where he was entertained after the best manner the Monks were able: but after service, being Candlemas day, he commanded to take the Abbot and all his Monks, tying them hand and foot, and threw them into a deep river running by: the Abbot having by some means untied himself was swimming he shore; which being by him perceived, he caused to follow him with a boat and kill him: Having thus committed many ontrages and insolences, the people of the land being much therewith distasted, took courage, and about some 30000. in arms pursued him, now fleeing and marching more by night then by day, until at length he came inro Denmark. B●ing now so embrued in blood, he could not refrain from cruelty even against his own kindred, he was at length assanlted by Frederick Prince of Holstein, ane those of Lubeck, and his conscience now affrighting him, with his wife Isabel the Emperor's sister and his children, flees into Zealand, which was the third year after the massacre of Stockeholme. 1523 CHAP. IX. 124 GVstavus 1. called Erickson, 143 Gustavus Erickson 1. or son of Ericus, after long imprisonment. escaping out of Prison, fled speedily out of Denmark, and was at length by the general consent of the States now surviving, accepted for king of the Realm; being thereunto well furthered by those of the City of Lubeck, which supplied him with store of money. This noble and praiseworthy Prince lived and reigned very peaceably with the love and good liking of his subjects the whole space of 38. years, and died in 1560. The most memorable of his acts (and was it not memorable indeed?) was that he banished out of his whole kingdom and dominions the superstitious worship of the Church of Rome, Reformation of religion in the kingdom of Swedea, An. 6560 and thorough his whole dominions caused them to profess the reformed religion, according to the confession of Ausbourg or Augustane confession. And because we account the Danes usurpation to have been no right possession, therefore according to Historians we make him to follow in order 143. immediately after Steno, whose daughter some say he married, howbeit if he so did, we read of no issue he had by her. The first wise therefore by whom he had any issue, was Katherine daughter to Magnus, Duke of Saxony, and by her he had 1. Ericus who succeeded him in his government. His second wife was Margaret, daughter to a noble knight Abraham Loholn, governor of Vestrogothia, whom he married An. 1536. who bore unto him these children following. 1 john afterwards king of Sweden. 2 Katherine, married to the Earl of East-Freezland 1559. and bare to him Enno, Gustavus, john and Christopher, Earls of East Freizland. 3 Cecilie, married to Christopher marquis of Baden 1564. to whom she bare Edward called the Fortunate, Christopher, Constans and Philip. 4 Magnus, Duke of Ostrogothia, and died 1595. 5 Steno, and died a child. 6 Anna, married to George john, Count Palatine of Rhine, and Duke of Bavaria 1564. to whom she bare George, Gustavus, john, Ruphel, Anna, Margaret, and Ursula, married to the Duke of Wittenberg. 7 Charles, who presently died. 8 Sophia, married to Magnus' Duke of Saxony 1568. and bare to him Guctavus Duke of Saxony, who died at Holmia 1597, 9 Elizabeth, married to Christopher, Duke of Meckelburg, who had by her one only daughter, called Margaret, & married to the Megapolitane Duke. 10 Charles, Duke of Sudermania, etc. This fruitful Queen died in the year 1551. After her decease he married again Katherine daughter to Gustavus Olaus, Baron of Torpa, 1552. but had by her no children. 144 Ericus succeeded his father Gustavus, 141 Ericus 8. and was crowned in Stockeholme 1561. This king for a certain time waged war against the Danes and city of Lubeck, and drew upon himself the hatred and evil will of all his neighbours: and as though this had yet been but a small matter, he irritated his own people, whom be exceedingly discontented. His brother john who had married Katherine, sister to Sigismond, king of Poland's widow, did altogether mislike his brother's turbulent courses and erterprises; who in his return from Revalia into Livonia, left with the Polonian king his kins' man a great sum of money, for the which this being put into his hands as a pledge, certain castles and commanderies in the country of Livonia. This fact his brother (otherwise very suspicious) interpreted in the worst sense, as though his brother had been combined and joined in league with the Dane and Polonian, and for this cause with his whole forces assaults his brother, takes himself, wife, and whole family prisoners in a town of Finland, called Ako, brings them all with him to Stockeholme, where having first openly accused him, he cast him into prison, where be continued for the space of four whole years: besides, that he put to death many of his familiar friends and acquaintance. But at the four years' end the case is quite altered, his brother finding a means to free himself out of prison, takes his brother captive, and makes him drink of the same cup he had before made him begin, with keeping him in close prison during his whole life time 1568. 145 Ericus thus justly thrust out of his throne, 145 john 2. his brother was with the unanimous, free and general consent of the whole State elected king in his brother's turn. During his reign he had also great war with but especially with the Dane, the Muscovite or Russian. He was born 1537▪ and crowned 1569: He married first Katherine daughter to Sigismond, king of Poland, by whom he had, 1. Sigismond, now king of Poland. 2. Anne. After this Queen's decease, he married one Gunila, daughter to one Axelurs Bielke de Hereseter, a noble Knight and governor of Ostrogothia, whom he married 1585. and by whom he had 1 john, who in the year 1612. married Mary Elizabeth, daughter to Charles the 9 King of Sweden. 2 Charles, borne 1550 first Duke of Sudermania, Neriva and Vermelandia, and afterwards also elected king of Sweden. This king john constantly maintained the same religion of the Augustane confession, which his father had formerly professed; although underhand he suffered his son Sigismond by his mother Katherine to be educated in the Romish religion, which cost him no less than the loss of his kingdom of Sweden, as hereafter shall ap pear. And the better to secure his subjects of his constant perseverance in the religion he profesesed, he gave then his brother Charles, Duke of Finland (whom he loved dear) far a pledge or pawn, that no innovation should therein be attempted, whom he also appointed by his last will and testament, during his son's absence, to be governor of the whole kingdom. This king died in the year 1992. 19 of November. 246 Sigismundus, son to the aforesaid john, 146 Sigismundus. being before during his father's life time in 1590. been designed and appointed king of Poland (being during his father's life time, elected king of Poland, where he also lived and reigned at the time of his father's death) was in the year 1599 crowned king of Sweden, and the very day of the Epiphanie was appointed for this purpose. Now there was to the king's company one Franciscus mala spina, Bishop of Vrlia in Italy, the Pope's Nuncto, whom the king and his followers much desired to perform the solemn rites of the Coronation: and this Prelate was of opinion, that if the States of Sweden had once given way to this beginning, the Romish religion might more easily afterwards be again introduced. But against this with might and main did Adamus Andracanns, than Archbishop of Vpsalia oppose, affirming, that it was flat against the laws and coostitutions of the kingdom that any other but the Archbishop of Vpsalia should set the diadem royal upon his head: and besides, that he must now swear to maintain that religion now professed within the kingdom of Sweden, according to the Augustane confession, exhibited to Charles the fifth Emperor, professed by his grandfather Gustavus, and his own father john the 3. and by a late synod holden at Vpsalia, by the whole states of the kingdom confirmed; and that he shall not assign or grant any Church or Churches in any town of Sweden to any other religion then that of the Augustane confession. And further, that during the time of his abode in Sweden, he should be contented with the service performed within the private chapel of his owoe palace. Against this did oppose the Peers and Nobles of poland that accompanied the king: howbeit the Peers of Sweden were resolute in their purpose, insomuch that some days were thus spent in alteration. At length about mid january, seeing no remedy, it was agreed that the bishop of Vpsalia should perform such rites as belonged to the coronation, which was accordingly performed. Ericus Sparce also Chancellor of the kingdom, The oath of Sigismond. administered unto the king his solemn oath; he reciprocally answering him, and promising first, that he would maintain iusticc and truth within his kingdom, and that he would punish and suppress all injustice and lying, that he would do justice to all the Swedish nation, as well rich as poor, and that according to the laws and statutes of the kingdom, he should govern the same, and that by the counsel and consent of his brother Prince Charles, and the senate or counsel of the kingdom, that he shall consult with the natural inhabitants of the kingdom, and not with strangers: that he shall bring no strangers within the realm; that he shall commit the castles and forts of the kingdom, and the deserts of Vpsalia to none but the natives of the country; that he shall impose no new tribute or tax upon the subject, unless in case of great necessity for the defence of the kingdom, in fear of any intestine commotion or sedition: when the king's son or daughter is to be married, when the king is to make any solemn perambulation thorough his whole kingdom, or something for the reparation of the deserts of Vpsalia shall be required. Moreover, that he should confirm all privileges and immunities heretofore granted to the Peers of the land, the whole people and the clergy thereof, and that by all means possible, he should procure peace and tranquillity to all his subjects; adding lastly this clause to the oath, So God be good to my soul and body as I from my heart swear to observe all the premises. After this was a solemn assembly of the whole States of the kingdom, or a Parliament called at Stockeholme, wherein was consulted of the government of the kingdom, during the king's absence, and divers good and wholesome laws enacted. In the month of july next after the king departed again into Poland. But some few years after, Abdication of king Sigismond. he was by the same States again abdicated and quite rejected from ever having any right or interest in the government of the kingdom of S weden, and was in a Parliament holden at Stockeholme 1590. confirmed. And again, in another Parliament holden at Lincopia 1600. as well he himself as all his issue and offspring are for ever excluded from the succession to the kingdom of Sweden. The reasons were diverse, but especially for sending an army of strangers into the country, quite contrary to his oath and promise; the which, if their plot had taken effect, might have overthrown the whole State, besides the ruin of religion. There were divers other causes published in print, as the story mentions, the which I have not as yet seen. But withal in the abdication of this king, this condition was inserted, that if within six months after the finishing of that no hereditary Prince, and heir apparent to the crown of Sweden, An act against the accepting of a foreign kingdom, unless he refine himself in Sweden. shall henceforth accept of any foreign kingdom, unless he resolve nevertheless to live and continue in the same kingdom of Sweden. This noble king after he came to the Crown, waged war with the king of Denmark, His wars against Denmark and Russia. and at one and the same time with the Russian also. For juan Wasilicuitz Suski, with many of the Peers being in his chief City Moscow very straight besieged by the Polonians, he sent for aid and succour to this Charles king of Sweden; there being then great danger, not of the loss of the king and his Nobles only, but even of the utter overthrow and ruin of his whole dominion. This Prince therefore sent with great expedition under the command of jairus de la Garde, Earl of Leccho, and Arch-marshal of the kingdom of Sweden, a great army, wherewith he raised the siege, overthrew the enemy's forces, and set at liberty this distressed Prince, and all his Peers. The aforenamed Suski making show of a grateful acknowledgement of so great a kindness received, not only promised, but also sealed some deeds, whereby he freely gave unto this king Charles, and to his heirs and successors kings of Sweden for ever, certain territories and lordships, together with the towns, castles, and forts thereunto belonging. But the mance was not answerable to promise: for this unthankful perfidious Prince sent secretly to the captain of one of his castles, wishing him with some forces to intercept those deeds, together with the money agreed upon for the soldiers pay. King Charles, by such an injury irritated (and blame him not) raises again new forces, invades the country (the Polonian having now likewise seized upon Moscow the chief City) he takes in Rexholme, and possesses himself of a great part of the country round about. But while he is now in the midst of his good success, behold cruel Atropos suddenly cuts the thread of his life, and so by this means, together with his hereditary dominions leaves likewise this war to be finished by his son Gustavus Adolphus, at this time king of Sweden, whereof more hereafter. He died of a great sickness in a war against Denmark: An. 1611. Octob. 30. His first wife was Mary daughter to Jews Elector, and Count Palatine of Rhine, whom he married, An. 1579, and had by her, 1 Margaret Elizabeth, and died at the age of 5. years. 2 Elizabeth Sabina, who died also young. 3 Lewes, who died instantly after his birth. 4 Katherine, borne in 1584. and in 1614 married to the illustrious Prince john Casimir, Prince Palatine of Rhine, and Duke of Bavaria. 5. Gustavus, who died a child. 6. Marry, who died also young. This virtuous Queen died of herself in the year 1580. His second wife was Christina, daughter to Adolphus, Duke also of Holsatis, who bore to him 1 Christina, who lived not long. 2 Gustavus Adolphus, the illustrious and victorious king of Sweden, and born in anno 1594 Decemb. 9 3. Marry Elizabeth 1596. who in the year 1612. was married to john, an hereditary Prince of the kingdom, and Duke of Ostrogothia. 4. Charles Philippe, a hereditary Prince, and Duke of Sundermania, Nericia, and Vermelandia 1601. He died in Livonia unmarried. CHAP. X. Of the Noble, Illustrious, and invincible Prince, great Gustavus Adolphus, the 2. King of Sweden, Goths, and Vandals, etc. and some of his Acts before his entering into Germany. 148 Gustavus Adolphus borne the ninth of Decemb. 148 Gustavus Adolphus 2. 1594. as said is, being but of a tender age for the swaying of the sceptre royal, his father dying in 1611. he being then but 17. years of age, was crowned in 1617.: Considering then his young years, and laying them in one scale, and the weight of affairs lying on his shoulders in the other, we may most justly wonder and admire at God's might and power in making him a fit instrument to effect such matters, as I doubt not but after-ages shall admire the same. In the year 1620. he married Mary Elinor, sister to the illustrious Prince George William, Marquis of Brandenburg, one of the Prince's Electors of the sacred Empire, who although she bore him some children, yet lived they not long. In the year 1624. she bore him a daughter. 1. Christina, but died the same year. The next year after she bore him again another daughter, called also 2. Christina, yet living, and in the year 1627. she was in a Parliament then holden at Stockeholme, declared here apparent to the crown of Sweden. It hath been a little before related how his father Charles the ninth of that name died, during his war with Denmark; and withal hath been showed, how at the same time the same Prince had hot war with the Prince of Russia: by which may easily appear into what a labyrinth of troubles was this young king at his first coming to the crown involved. In both these wars he carried his affairs so well, that thorough the help of Almighty God he hath procured himself ever since a firm and inviolable peace with that great Prince. His war with the king of Denmark. He had with the Dane divers conflicts, yet always demeaned himself so worthily that he came off with great honour and credit; so that at length that great king seeing he had to meddle with his match, was willing to accoodate his Martial thoughts, to entertain at treaty of peace: and so these two great Princes of mortal enemies, became loving and kind friends, and have since confirmed a straight league of amity and friendship. As for the Russian Prince, he had with him yet some greater difficulty to undergo, there resting some strong, and almost impregnable places to be taken, and the evidences concerning such territories, as the Russian had, for good consideration, assigned his father, to be recovered. And although my purpose be not particularly to enlarge myself upon all the several occurrences of this war; yet are there in the same, some things to be obseraed, not unworthy the reader's consideration, whereof I will give but a touch. After his father's decease then, His war with the Russian Prince. having settled the affairs of his kingdom at home, although he had to deal with so potent an enemy as the king of Denmark, as hath been said already; yet did he not neglect this war against the Russian; and for this purpose prepared a great army to prosecute that which his father had left unfinished. Now it is to be understood that these forts and places he took in from the Russian Prince, are the strongest holds, and as it were, the very keys of all the Russian dominion. That country is corruptly called Rexholme, The country of Carelia corruptly called Reaholme taken in. from a strong City and Castle seated in two little Lands in the mouth of the river Waxed, in the one of which the Castle, and in the other the City is seated; although the right name of this country among Historians be known by the name Carelia. But, among all these strong holds & castles, none is to be compared with the strong fort Notteburg, The invincible force of Notteburg▪ which hath therefore hitherto ever been holden invincible, until now of late experience hath taught us the contrary. It is built in a little Island in the mouth of the swift river Nerva, and by reason of the breadth of the river could not be battered with ordnance. This strong cattle therefore being of so great importance, was never unfurnished. But the great God of heaven, who according to his good will and pleasure, disposes of all these sublunary things, and infatuates the wisdom of the wise, delivered this invincible fort into the hands of an invincible Prince: a presage, no doubt, of his future, great and glorious victories. But the manner is yet more admirable: for within the soldiers were not unfurnished of sufficient food, and the enemy's force (as said is) they needed not much to fear; The strange manner of taking in the Castle of Noneburg▪ but within their mouths and throats there grew so many great warts, that although they had food sufficient, yet could they not feed on the same, nor yet swallow down any sustenance, for the which cause they were forced to surrender this strong fort into his majesty's hands. And so he that made the walls of jericho at the found of a rams horn to fall down, to make a way for his own people of Israel to enter this City, found out this way to take in this invincible fort. And whosoever sees not the same providence accompanying & prospering him in this so great a war now undertaken against the whole power of the Austrian house and the Catholic league, I think is more than purblind. There is in that same country another strong Castle juanogorod, The taking in of the strong fort juanogorod. seated on the top of a high rock, in an Isthmus, or narrow plain, a great part thereof being environed with this swift river. And although on the west side, as it looketh towards the river it might be battered; yet both that way, as likewise both the south and north parts were well defended by this river; and on the east there was a low valley, digged by natures own industry, where the people had their habitation, the country about being plain and level, and so high that the ordnance could touch only the tops of the turrets, and go no lower. Neither yet was there any undermining by reason or that soil which was altogether rocky. This fort notwithstanding, together with the former 2. and many more were by this same king taken in the year 1617., in so much that this great Prince was then put in no small fear of losing all or the greater part of his dominion, whereof there was then no small danger. Wherefore the great Knezor or Duke, Michael Feodorovitz, son to the former perfidious juani Vasilienitz Suski, earnestly suing for peace, it was at length by the mediation of king james of famous memory effected, and in the year 1618. fully finished and agreed upon. And thus were those aforementioned towns and forts, and divers others belonging to this Carelia Ruthenica, or country of Rexholme, together with all the deeds and evidences thereunto pertaining, resigned over and delivered into to the hands of this king, and for ever annexed unto the Crown of Sweden; and all other places during this war taken from the Russian, again to him restored, as in the articles of agreement in 18. more at length is to be seen. Neither was this king then part 21. years of age, when he had brought to a happy end two so great and important wars. Now after this happy and peaceable conclusion, having established peace in all his Provinces, he gave not himself over to his lustful pleasures (as is often too customary with young Princes) nor to drown himself with sinful delights; but gaue himself wholly to beautify and adorn this peaceable kingdom, whereof she was now fully possessed: which could no better be effected, then by confirming the ancient good and wholesome laws and constitutions of the kingdom, Confirmation of the ancient laws concerning traffic and commerce betwixt the sea towns. adding some others as occasion required. And therefore, as was already touched, he not only reinforced the former laws and constitutions concerning traffic and commerce betwixt the sea towns, but added also divers others, tending to that same purpose; together with many other things, whereon for brevity. I may not now insist. But that he might leave a perpetual memorial to the Christian world, that he was as well a favourer of Minerva as of Mars, he hath left thereof a sufficient proof to all after ages. During the reign of Ericus Balbus, the then Archbishop of Vpsalia, jezlerus instituted and founded in the same City a college of 4 professors; and afterwards the number of professors being increased, together with an addition of far greater means, it was in the year 1476. by Pope Sixtus the 4. erected into the form of an University, and adorned with the like privileges, as that of Bononia. This University by injury of time and devouring wars being much endamaged, and having lost much of its ancient splendour and beauty, was again by the late deceased Charles the 9 is it were, out of her ashes not only restored to former dignity and splendour, but a good increase also added to her former beauty. And this same invincible king now living, to testify to posterity the love he beareth to learning, The University of Vpsalia is by him much enriched and adorned. hath so increased both the number of learned professors and their maintenance, that now it may well be compared with many of the best Universities of Europe; and lest it should at any time hereafter by reason of the want or uncertainty of means come to ruin or decay, did in the year 1624. out of his own revenues settle upon the same very great and large means, and confirmed the same in most large and ample manner, and made the possession of these lands and rents, as sure and firm as the best Noblemen of the kingdom. This Prince, after he had lived a few years in peace, was again entangled in a new war with his Uncle Sigismond king of Polonia, in the which he took from him many strong towns and forts of no small importance, without any loss to himself (for he made war in his enemy's country) both in the kingdom of Poland, itself, in the Duchy of Lithuania, and in the rich country of Prussia; so that if this king had continued as he began, and affairs of a higher nature and strain had not invited him another way, not with standing the aid the Emperor his brother in law sent him, he had, perhaps, ere now been deprived of a great part, if not of all his great dominion. The which by him wisely, and in time foreseen, he earnestly sued both to our gracious king's majesty now living, and to the king of France to mediate a fair agreement betwixt him and his nephew; the which was accordingly performed the 29. of Septemb. 1629. a truce and cessation of arms being for six years after ensuing there agreed upon: by virtue of which agreement the king of Sweden restored again to his Uncle many places by him taken in the kingdom of Poland, and Duchy of Lithuania; howbeit he retaineth still many good towns and castles in the country of Prussia. The particular articles of their agreement for avoiding tediousness of set purpose I here pass by; and who so is desicous to see the same, may have recourse to the histories. The entering of the invincible king of Sweden, great Gustavus Adolphus into Germany with a great Army, Anno 1630. with a touch of some principal exploits by him since that time achieved and brought to pass. RAdolphus, Earl of Halsburg, being in the year 1274. crowned Emperor at Aquisgranum or Aix, laid the first foundation of the greatness of the Austrian house. This Prince then besides that with many great lordships, partly by force and violence, and partly by purchase he much increased his hereditary dominions; the country of Austria also by want of a lawful successor fell into this Emperor's hands to dispose of; which he eftsoon conferred upon his son Albertus. Into this Austria then were incorporated all these other dominions. Radolphus being dead, Adolphus Earl of Nassau was elected Emperor, and afterwards by the aforesaid Albertus killed, who got himself afterward chosen Emperor. This Prince likewise spared no pains, but improved his utmost power and means for the increasing of this already grounded greatness. And this made him so eager an enemy to the Helvetian liberty, labouring by all means, direct or indirect, to hook in whatsoever he could compass to make his sons great, and to advance the now rising Austrain house, yea, so eager was he in prosecuting his purpose, that he spared not the very monasteries and religious houses, but either bought out light what might thus be purchased, or else procured himself and his sons to be made patrons and protectors of such ecclesiastical places, a fair way for future possession. But the unjust murder of his predecessor, being by his own brother's son revenged (who killed this ambitious Albert) and all his covetousness and ambition now laid in the dust; Albert killed. the Princes of this Austrain house, as they had now & then their turns in his supreme authority, so were they not wanting to themselves and successors, but as time and opportunity were offered, went on in their predecessors footsteps. At length, after the death of Sigismond the Emperor in the year 1438. Another Albert Emperor. another Albert of this Austrian house, and son in law to the aforesaid Sigismond was elected Emperor; the which his successors (having now yet once again gotten the ball before them) have kept close unto themselves almost for the space of 200 years, even until this very day; having also afterwards added to their former greatness the kingdom of Hungaria, Wonderful greatness of the house of Austria Bohemia, with the appurtenances thereof, Silesia, Moravia, the one and other Lusatis, and become also at several times, Lords and masters of Stiria, Carinthin, and Sirolie: and by marriage afterwards gotten in the 17. Provinees. At length Charles the fifth (as though this house had not yet been great enough) brought for his share the kingdoms of Spain and Portugal, together with all the kingdoms and dominions thereupon depending: as namely the kingdom of Naples, Sicily, and Duchy of Milan, besides the West-Indies, and all the riches of that Western world, with some thing in the East-Indies also. All this notwithstanding, this great Monarch, Charlet the attempted the overthrow of true religion, together with the Germans liberty, according to his plus ultra, not contented with all these dominions; aimed yet further at the subversion and overthrow both of true religion, and the liberty of Germany, and began to act such a tragedy in high Germany, as his son Philip afterwards attempted in the low countries: for the which cause to have Pope Leo the 10. for his friend, as he had before anathematised Luther, so this Emperor to act his part, proscribes him. This plot for a while succeeded according to his wishes, insomuch that john Frederick, Prince elector, and the Landgrave of Hessen Protectors and maintainers of the true reformed religion preached by Luther, and the german liberty were in open field overthrown their forces dispersed, and they themselves taken prisoners, But at length, Maurice, Duke of Saxony the Emperor's General, and newly possessed, not only of his kinsman's lands and possessions, but of his electorate dignity also, contrary to the Emperor's expectation, turning his power against himself, forces him, not only to a restitution of the captives, but likewise to a settled peace and liberty of religion within the whole german countries: and so it did here plainly appear how God brought light out of darkness. The Jesuits, the incendiaries of the Christian world, envying the peace and prosperity of the same, as in other parts, so in this country of Germany have they laboured to overthrow and subvert both the State of the true reformed Church and commonwealth. And although they have been a long time projecting such a plot, yet could it not so conveniently be brought about until such time as Frederick primus, Palatine Elector, having accepted of the Bohemian Crown, being freely and lawfully thereunto elected, this viperous generation, being of a martial breed, failed not to lay hold on such an offered opportunity; and therefore cease not to incense and stir up the Emperor Ferdinand the 2. (of himself sensible enough of any thing that might but in show derogate from the dignity of the Austrian house) to prosecute that which before had been projected. And thus was this Noble Prince deprived not only of his kingdom of Bohemia, but of all his hereditary dominions and electorate dignity. And whereas many ignorant of the Jesuits far fetched secret stratagems, did verily believe that now they were attained to the utmost end they aimed at, it appeared far otherwise. For now the fire that so long lay covered under the ashes breaks forth, and sets upon a sudden all these flourishing provinces of Germany on fire: and the vizard now remooved their purpose, was made manifest to the blindest eyesight; to wit, the total ruin and overthrow of the true religion in many, yea in most places of Germany professed, the reducing of them again to the Romish superstition, and utter overthrow of the liberties of the Roman Empire: whose designs whosoever, in defence of God's cause and liberties of their own country, did any way oppose have been in most barbarous manner prosecuted and persecuted with fire and sword, and many forced to forsake their ancient inheritances to save their lives and keep a good conscience, in still professing that religion wherein they had heretofore been brought up. Others again more pusillanimous and loath to lose all for Christ, yet besides, a shameful and perfidious abjuration of that truth which before they had professed, were yet notwithstanding forced to yield to such slavish and servile conditions, as the insolency of a victorious enemy was pleased to impose upon them. When this tyranny had now at least, for the space of ten years been after a rigid manner prosecuted, it pleased Almighty God of his infinite goodness, all other means now failing, in pity and compassion to his poor afflicted Church, now destitute of the least appearance of any humane help, to raise up means of deliverance, where, I am sure, it was least expected, even that illustrious and victorious king of Sweden, Captain of the Lords host. Gustavus Adolphus, King of the Swethens, Goths, and Vandals, arrived in Pomer, in February, An. 1630. and landed near unto the Isles of Rugen, and Vsdome, at a little village, called Pennemund, with no more at the first, than 6000 soldiers. Himself coming on shore, falls down, and powers out this unto God, O Lord, thou that rulest over the Heavens, the earth, and the vast sea, I cannot sufficiently give thee thanks, that thou hast preserved me so graciously in this perilous journey; O Lord I render thanks unto thee, and give praise unto thee, from the very bottom of my heart, beseeching thee seeing thou knowest, that this voyage, my purpose and intent tends not to my own, but only to they glory and honour, and for the comfort and help of thy afflicted Church, that if now the time, and appointed hour become, Assist me further with thy grace and blessing, & grant are a prosperous wind, and good weather, that I may behold the rest of my Army with a joyful eye; which I have left behind me picked up, out of diverse nations, to the end that with them, I may advance forward thy holy worke-Amen. The King's Officers and Council, stepping on land after him, and hearing such a zealous prayer, coming from him in this manner, could not forbear weeping, which the King perceiving, said unto them, Weep not my friends, but pray fervently, from the bottom of your hearts, the more ye pray, the more victory God will give you, for earnest prayer is more than the gaining of half a battle. It seems, since that time, that the King's prayer hath availed much with God, and how mightily the Lord hath been with him, in taking in many countries, cities, and towns, in overthrowing the Emperor's invincible Army, and that of the Catholic League, and the mighty increasing of his Army, since his first landing. Other particulars may give satisfaction to the Reader; to God the only author, and giver of them, be given immortal praise. Amen. FINIS