THE HISTORY OF OUR B. LADY OF LORETO.  
TRĀSLATED out of Latyn, into English.  
IMPRINTED with Licence. 1608.    

APPROBATIO.  
NOs Ant. Maria, miseratione divina tit. S. Agnetis in Ago S. R. E. Presb. Card. Gallus nuncupatus, Dei & Apostolicae Sedis gratia Episcopus Auximanus, Almae Domus & Civitatis Lauretanae Protect. & Guber. perpetuus.  
Vidimus & probavimus Historiam Lauretanam R P. Horatij Tursellini è Societate JESV, in quinque libros distinctam. consentit enim in omnibus cum antiquis traditionibus & scriptures Almae Domus Lauretanae. In cuius rei fidem, hoc ei testimonium dedimus. Auximi in nostris aedibus Episcopalibus, Die XIV. Maij, Anno M.D.XCVII.  
Ant. Mar. Card. Gallus. Laur. Prot. & Guber. perp.   

EGo Claudius Aquaviua Societatis IESV Praepositus Generalis, Lauretanae Historiae libros quinque à P. Horat●o Tursellino compositos, per tres alios Theologos nostrae Societatis recognosci mandavi: quos cum illi approbaverint, probo etiam, ut possint imprimi, si ita placuerit Reverendissimo D. Viceregenti, ac Reverendissimo Patri Magistro Sacri Palatij. Datum Romae die VIII. Octobris. Anno Domini M.D.XCVII.  
Claudius Aquaviua.   

Imprimatur.  
Alex. Provicesg.   

Imprimatur.  
P. Paulus Picus Rever. Mag. Sac. Palatij socius.   

TO THE MOST GLORIOUS, AND MOST B. VIRGIN OF LORETO, The most merciful Patroness, and greatest joy of Christians.  
WHEREAS a custom hath long prevailed among mortal men (most singular Queen of heaven) to dedicate their labours and works to great men on earth, either to advance the glory of their family, by recording the worthy memory of their virtues, for the perpetual view of people & nations, or else to gain their singular love and favour by so special a grace, towards them and their posterity. Which albeit it be the full intent (if my mind deceive me not) of them that labour to fill the world with knowledge: yet this kind of gratitude (not to be misliked nor censured according to every man's conceit) doth little avail to further and help the imbecility of human understanding, and to infuse the true spirit of the work into the Readers mind, whereby he may attain (specially in the Treatises of spiritual discourses) to the knowledge of true Christianity, which only by the direction and grace of the heavenly spirit, leadeth a devout soul out of the banishment and peregrination of mortality, to the sacred fountain of everlasting felicity. Which happiness being the whole intent, and the only desire of the Author and Translator of this work, and the true cause wherefore thou (most merciful Mother of Loreto) by so great a miracle, hast made thy most dear & most beloved house to follow the religion & honour of the Christian name from Country to country, & from place, to place, to incline the hearts of sinners to repentance, that the Father of heaven might be truly screwed & honoured upon earth, and the work of our Redemption take such effect in the frail hearts of thy devout suppliants, that with great zeal they might wish themselves wholly devoted to the service of Almighty God, & most desirously taste of that happiness, which doth not only give life, but life without end, purchased and bought with the dearest blood of the immaculate Lamb of God, for the inhabitants of the whole world. Among which that thy Own Dowry may have the grace once again to reap the singular benefit of so heavenly a favour, vouchsafe, most glorious and before all creatures the most happy Mother of God, to receive from the hands of an unworthy servitor of most B. Mary of Loreto (unfeignedly desiring that true honour should be done unto thee) this labour, as a small token of his service, and ever bounden duty to the most B. Queen of Heaven: being most willing hereby (if so be it may stand with thy good liking) to advance & propagate the worthy and most comfortable name of most B. Mary of Loreto in every angle, yea and in every Christian heart of this distressed Island: which indeed unless it be performed by thee the general Patroness of our miseries, my slender endeavour (not worthy to obtain for poor Lazarus the least crumbe that doth fall from the rich table of those heavenly banquets) will little avail. For these outward words may sound to small increase of sincere devotion, if the heart be shut from the true feeling of divine mysteries: which by none more willingly, more admirably, and with less entreaty than by thee, either can, or are revealed to those souls, which now sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death; drawn thither by the deceit and fraud of thy enemies, with such lamentable woe, as most of thy Clients (heretofore much devoted to thy holy Name) now by evil information and damnable doctrine, seem to make it an honour to their God, and a point of their religion, to renounce thy service, to contemn thy prayer, and from their hearts to reject thy thrice fortunate protection & help. But (O vouchsafe to hear) will the Mother of mercy, the gate of heaven, the glory of Jerusalem, the joy of israel, turn her desired countenance, her merciful eyes, her melting bowels, her inflamed zeal of souls from her Own Dowry, besieged and fiercely assaulted with the deadly enemies of Mary, even of Mary the Mother of God? Do not respect, look not at abuses and great wrongs, think not of injuries done unto thee; for now mercy is expected, now favour is sought, now pardon is obtained for the greatest offenders, and by whom but by B. Mary of Loreto? The more perverse, the more obstinate, and greater that the offenders converted be; the more glory doth come to Loreto the beloved Cell of thy habitation, and to Mary the giver of all gifts and graces next after God: Which at thy beloved Loreto, are most abundantly bestowed on them, that by thy holy intercession and mean, crave humble pardon of their sins from God. Therefore for the beloved name of Mary, for the Mother of God, for Loreto itself, mollify and mercifully incline the hearts of them, that shall read these thy wonders & miracles, inspire into them the light of grace, give them (by thy holy intercession) true understanding, prompt will, and willing performance to embrace all which belongeth to know the service of the true omnipotent God, and of jesus Christ, his and thy only Son. Which once performed, is not the strayed sheep found out, and carried on the pastors shoulders to his fellows, and placed in the cherishing bosom of his dearest Mother the holy Catholic Church? Is not the prodigal Child received with all exultation & joy again into his Father's favour? Is not dead Lazarus revived? doth not all heaven rejoice at the conversion of a sinner? and doth it not sound with the praises of B. Mary of Loreto, whom Almighty God hath so glorified, that he hath made her the instrument and the mean to have all the chosen sheep of Christ's flock to return to Paradise, and to taste of the immortal fountain of salvation by her, that as the most wretchedest of all women was the occasion of bringing all misery on our heads so the most glorious: not only of women, but of all creatures whatsoever, should direct and guide us unto our former state of bliss again. Wherefore blessed Mother of mercy, and the most comfortable refuge of all offenders, give ear and hearken, I beseech thee, to these plaints of thy unworthy suppliant. Neither the voice of a wretched sinner, nor his poor wishes and prayers alone durst presume to present themselves before so singular a Patroness, to entreat so great a benefit, as pardon, peace, and grace for thy distressed England; if the merits of all holy Apostles, Prophets, Martyrs, Confessors, Virgins, devout Matrons (yea and that nothing at all may be wanting) even thy own abundant & well-deserving merits themselves did not come to entreat, to request, and to call unto thee in behalf of this outcast and abandoned Island. If it be exceeding joy and contentment to thee to have Loreto glorified and most reverenced of all places in the world, work means with thy beloved Son, that this unfruitful vineyard may have the earth and soil of her heart sown with that heavenly seed which at Loreto is most abundantly powered from heaven into the souls of thy devout Clients: that all the people of our Country may rejoice, not only to have understanding, but also to see planted in their souls the beautiful flowers of the mystical Paradise, where the spiritual Adam CHRIST JESUS our Lord and Saviour was framed and made man of the virginal earth of thy body, where he found all delicacies and dainty fruits of virtues, the sweetest flowers which heavenly grace could produce, and the comfortablest nourishment and food which Angels taste. Amidst which was made and framed the Lord of Angels in thee, the earthly Paradise of this world, and the joy of our God: which doth well show, that thou indeed (O glorious) art the Paradise which was never defiled, never was stained with any imperfection, nor never sawest the least blemish of earthly corruption. Witness hereof not only the glorious Resurrection of Christ our Lord thy Son, thy most happy Assumption into heaven both in body and soul: but the very precinct, the circuit, and the place where this Paradise was planted; those very walls (I say) and the rest of the sacred House of Loreto itself, which by a great miracle have stood from the very time that you lived till this day, without any alteration or change at all, either by default of antiquity or injury of the weather: declaring unto us the rare wonders and mercies of Almighty God, who by his only will doth make mortal things immortal in a sort for ever. Wherefore that the gate of this Paradise may always be open, and that all may have free passage to gather the sweet flowers & seeds of virtue, which undoubtedly do cure both spiritual & corporal infirmities; request, entreat, importune thy Lord, thy Creator, thy Saviour, & thy Son, that the Angel may terrify & prohibit no longer, that the fiery sword of wrath & revenge may be removed, that in Loreto all may come to taste of the tree of life, whose fruit doth not only heal and take away sin, but also doth so comfort all them that be in distress and misery, that neither death nor the fruits thereof can have power to reign in them any longer, but that the sacred fountain of life itself, which there was made man to save man, by thy B. merits, and most holy prayer, may most happily be planted, given, and bestowed on man to the welfare of his everlasting felicity, and desired salvation.   

TO THE RIGHT WORSHIPFUL AND RIGHT VIRTUOUS Gentlewoman Mrs. M. B.  
T. P. Wishes increase of virtue, and true felicity in JESUS CHRIST.  
CONSIDERING with myself (right virtuous Mrs. M.) to whom of mortal creatures, even next after that glorious Virgin the Mother of our merciful and great God, I might present and deliver this discourse (being as it were the gate of the flourishing place where the true spiritual Paradise was planted, to be opened for the welfare of our distressed Country: me thought none could better perform so singular an office of duty towards B. Mary of Loreto, than they, who with the example of Virginal purity, have even from their cradle been always specially devoted to that place, and have much desired to hear and to read the marvelous wonders of so merciful a Patroness, that their souls might be fully replenished, and happily blest, with the great comfort of so divine a benefit. Among whom, who may be judged more worthy than she, in whom from infancy, the disposer of these celestial graces, hath dwelled both by name & grace? And that she may always dwell in your religious heart, to the increase of your noble virtues, and to the good of many souls; to you (devout Mrs. M.) I present this small token of my dutiful affection, that by your singular piety, and true Christian zeal towards this miraculous place, others may know what unfeigned happiness (if any be on earth) this little book doth set before their eyes. For as by her glorious merits, and the disposition of the Father of mercies, B. Mary of Loreto hath deserved the principality, and to be Queen of all heavenly creatures: so by the sanctification and will of Mary, the most sacred House of Loreto, hath ever been the first of all places consecrated to her name on earth; and that in so marvelous a manner, that the most B. Queen of Angels doth bestow her Angelical benefits so bountifully in this place, that there is none, although he do not visit her with corporal presence (if conveniently he can not) but in spirit only, that departeth hence without the special reward and blessing of Loreto: such a fountain of sanctity have the merits of this Virginal Queen produced for our miseries & infirmities, that (O wonder!) these burdens seem, as it were, to be removed and taken from us, during our abode in that Paradise, which B. Maries habitation, touchings, and virtues have truly sanctified, for the good & welfare of her Suppliants for ever. Which you devout Mrs. M. knowing to be true, will not cease this haruest-tyme of your life to gather into the treasury of your heart, all spiritual seeds of celestial glory, with more singular example and zeal of the honour of her your Patroness, of your own perfection, and the good of all that shall concur with you, in this most profitable service of the heavenly Queen. And that you may most faithfully perform it, here once again you yourself, and they by you, receive the full view of that true flourishing vineyard and of all her heavenly fruits, that among such variety, you may make special choice of some of her odoriferous virtues, which have so singular a quality, that they never change their first beauty, but still adorn the soul with greater purity, than the brightest planets, these corruptible heavens: which God grant to be your happy choice, that still in this earthly peregrination, you may be made more like to her, whose name you bear, that as a well-deserving servant, you may solace with her, in the joy of eternal beatitude.  
In all sincere affection Ever ready to do you service in Christ jesus. T. P. From my poor dwelling, this 29. of March. 1608.   

TO THE GODLY READER.  
AMONG all the wonders which have happened on earth since the mysteries of our Redemption, what more marvelous, more wonderful, & profitable to man, than to have an infallible refuge and harbour of security, against the fury and storm of the divine wrath, where he may be delivered from the imminent blow of that dreadful sword, which pierceth with so great woe, as the extreme and insufferable pain which it causeth, can never be mitigated, nor in any sort abated, but rather more and more increased: as by meditating, considering, and reading the holy Scriptures, it is plain to all, that can conceive the misfortunate state of sinners. Which is the chance of all that die the children of wrath, and are plunged into the fiery pits of damnation, because they did not secure themselves in their life on earth, in the harbour of God's unspeakable mercies: which very specially do appear at his beloved Loreto, the precinct, the walls, and the circuit of that Paradise, where Christ our Lord was not only made man, and the Saviour of our souls: but also the sentence of malediction was taken from the damned posterity of Adam, and happily changed into the former benediction. If that the place where our first Father was created, was the delight and joy of man; if the place where the sentence of death was pronounced against us, were holden of such wonder, estimation and desire, that no words can declare it: what I pray thee aught that to be, where Christ himself was framed of our nature; where in steed of damnation, benediction was brought from heaven and given to all well deserving people? Which was not made the bar, the tribunal, and the throne of the rigorous and severe judgement of our death, but the Paradise, the treasury, and the sacred Fountain, where that heavenly salve was made, that cureth the grieved wounds of our manifold sins. If Almighty God destroyed the former Paradise, as the place of our damnation, and by a miracle unheard of from the beginning of the world, hath preserved this in the very same state, wherein it was, when he himself was there made man: can any imagine, dare any say, will any judge that it is for no end? This special wonder was for some great purpose, as indeed the marvelous, the daily, and the manifold benefits bestowed there on mankind, by the prayer of the immaculate Mother of our God, do undoubtedly declare; yea and do signify to all, that God, Almighty hath made this a very special harbour of refuge and succour unto us, in the manifold dangers of our earthly peregrination: which not only many thousands of supernatural wonders, wholly surpassing the power of all natural means, but also the incredible devotion of all Christians, doth acknowledge, testify, and approve the same, with more effectual zeal, than any words can deliver to the godliest Reader: in so much indeed, that they who have not seen & tasted this whereof I speak, at first will not so easily believe to be true. For the like concourse, the like fervour, and such continual devotion, was never heard of from the beginning of the world. And what is the cause of all this so great fervour and reverence? The reviving of dead men? the curiug of diseases, that by natural means were utterly despaired of, and past all hope of cure? the heavenly visions and revelations, which have been showed to devout people in this most Majestical Seat of the whole world? No, no, not only these, but chief the abundance of God's grace, the Fountain of heavenly joy and consolation, which seemeth still to flow, and to be powered into men's hearts beyond all measure in this celestial place: which is so evident and so manifest, that 〈◊〉 one nor two hundred thousands of people, which dwell near at hand, but even very many of the remotest parts of the world, yearly pilgrimage thither, to drink of this fountain and sacred River o● heaven. Seeing therefore that these things are so evident, that the very enemies of the Christian name neither do, nor can deny them: what will they say, who deny that Saints can hear our prayers? That their sacred Relics can work any effect above nature? What answer will they frame and shape to this? Well may they blush and be much ashamed, to have denied, hated, contemned, and rejected Christ himself, by rejecting these things with such malicious contempt and hatred? But what? can any answer be made to the inscrutable judgements of Almighty God, who doth work thus marvelously by the things, which he and his B. Mother touched and sanctified by their own habitation, whiles they lived on earth? If in the old Law, almighty God did work these and such like wonders, in the Pond upon Probatica (joan. 5.) which he never commanded to be made, either for the cure of infirmities, or for people to resort unto it, for that, or any other end, but approved their devotion and godly reverence by miracles from heaven: will he then be less beneficial to Christians in the new law, than to the jews in the old? Or will he do less honour to the Relics of his dear Saints, than to the waters which only washed the sacrifices of the old Law? Or have people less need of these things now, than at those times they had? Or be there not now as many diseases in the new, as before in the old Law? Why therefore should not Christ bestow benefits on his beloved in this and in other places, by the merits of his B. Mother? Why should not diseases be cured in this devout House before the Image of our B. Lady now a days, aswell as in the waters of that Pond, in the time of the former people? Is Christ power less now in his own House, than in time passed in the waters of that place? But why by more words should I seek to prove and declare the possibility of God's grace & power, which so admirably, so comfortably, and most marvelously doth not only show itself; but also doth flow into men's souls in the sacred House of Loreto: that by his holy Conception and education there, Christ our Lord doth seem to have made it the gate of heaven, for our comfort and everlasting joy. Have not all nations Christian by their vows, votaries, gifts and donaries approved and most religiously desired to taste (as indeed they have) of the sweetness of Loreto? And which is more, do not heathenish nations admire and confess the divine power, which always is so present there, that to them it seemeth as it were to dwell in the most sacred House of Loreto? All Barbary is full of the reverence of Loreto, and doth tremble to hear the name of Mary of Loreto mentioned, whom many times that countrypeople thinking to have rob & spoiled of her wealth, were taught by many great miracles, and infinite loss of men, not to touch, nor approach unto her, but to reverence and honour her with religious respect and devout words. Only England of all nations under the sun doth not know, doth not honour and reverence this glorious Paradise of the earth. What, is she worse than Turks and heathen people, who dare not attempt any hostility, nor utter any irreverent thing of Loreto, being taught this fruitful lesson by their great harm? Truly for that presumptuousness, which maketh thee O England to say that Saints cannot hear our prayers, that Mary the Mother of Christ is no better than other women, that she can not hear, nor help her Suppliants. But if the Catholic Church can not teach thee, if Turks, if heathenish people cannot inform thee; let wonderful works of God, this miracle of the world, the marvelous benefits bestowed on mankind in this most sacred place by the prayers of the Mother of God, make it manifest unto thee, that Christ doth hear his Mother's prayers, and that the contrary, irreverent, impious, and blasphemous opinion doth bring damnation of body & soul to all those that believe such fancies & devilish inventions, as to contemn, to deride, & to detract the Saints of Almighty God: whereas the contrary, that is, to honour, to reverence, and by humble prayer to entreat the help, the assistance, and the aid of his Saints, is so pleasing, acceptable, and dear in the sight of his divine Majesty, that he doth confirm this belief of his Catholic servants with daily & innumerable miracles from heaven: whereby the contrary is so confounded, detested & hated by Allm. God himself, that he can do no more to make than to know & see their detestable & damnable error, & indeed their heresy, as palpable Christ's Conception? who would not see the overshadowing of the holy Ghost, and the virtue of the Highest descend on the B. Virgin in her little house of Loreto? who would not be present at all the wonders that Christ wrought in that little place of his abode? who would not always most effectually desire to pray with his body in Loreto, before the glorious Images of JESUS & MARY, that his mind may be carried to greater joy than words can express? O what increase of virtue will come to your souls, to think that B. Mary the Mother of God doth work in your hearts all those miraculous cures which she hath done in the bodies of her suppliants! what joy will it be to your hearts to see your sins taken away, to feel the working of the holy ghost in your breasts, to see damnation turned into salvation, & deep aversion into sweet embracing love! These things are so wonderful and admirable, that nothing can be more desired of your souls. Therefore give yourselves to Mary, offer yourselves to Mary, consecrate your hearts and wills wholly to Mary, and Mary will always be with you in Loreto; she will teach you to pray, she will be an example still before your eyes, & in your behalf before the Altar of his divine presence, she will also offer up every ave Maria, & every devout naming of jesus, to the increase of your holiness on earth, to your great comfort in all your tribulations, & to the full accomplishment of your heavenly Crown in the Paradise of eternity.  
Your well-willer. T. P.   

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE AND RIGHT REVEREND Lord Peter Aldobrandino CARDINAL Of the Holy Roman Church, HORATIUS TURSELLINUS WISHES FELICITY.  
THE providence of Almighty God doth appear in many great and wonderful things (Right honourable Cardinal:) but specially in this, that he hath made his B. Mother the Patroness and parent of mankind. For seeing that human imbecility was subject to innumerable chances, he ever determined to appoint such a keeper and defendresse unto the same, as chief above all others, both would & could deliver their health every way beset with dangers, & bless their life with true & happy goodness. For our mighty God hath made his B. Mother a companion of his divine majesty and power, as far as may be lawful; long ago bestowing upon her the special prerogative and principality of all heavenly and earthly creatures. According to whose will (as much as the protection of mankind doth require) he moderateth the earth, the sea, heaven and nature itself: at whose entreaty, and by whom, he bestoweth divine treasures and heavenly gifts on mortal men: that all may understand that whatsoever doth flow from that eternal and most sacred Fountain of goodness to earth, that it doth flow unto us by Mary his most B. Mother. What region therefore, what people, what nation is there, where the Patronage of Mary is not illustrated with miracles, consecrated with Houses, adorned with titles? But among all the sacred Houses dedicated to the B. Virgin Mother of God, one House of Loreto doth excel: which with the fame of her name, hath both filled the whole world: and also for the space of these many ages, is reverenced daily more and more with the concourse and frequency of all people and nations. For as other Churches of our B. Lady are (for the most part) the refuges of particular Cities & Countries: so this seemeth to be the common refuge of all people and nations. And therefore to you (Peter Aldobrandino) I specially dedicate the History both of this House & Church, aswell in the name of our whole Society, which you favour with singular benevolence, as in my own, who for the same cause must needs confess myself to owe more to your singular humanity, than I am able to perform. Nether must any marvel why we writ this History in Latin, for they err (by some men's leave be it spoken) and measure the thing rather by the love which they bear to their native tongue, than by the truth itself, if any think, that more fruit of a History may be received by this our late and Tuscan language, than by the old & Latin tongue. For the Tuscan tongue doth not much pass the bounds of Italy itself, which hereafter an interpreter of this History may satisfy: but the Latin tongue doth go far & near, almost through all people and nations, that the Roman language may extend further than in times past the Roman Empire did. And if the protection of the B. Virgin of Loreto be showed to all Countries of the world: truly with good reason we may wish, that her glory and fame, may go as far, as the Christian Religion & reverence hath done. Wherefore (most honourable Cardinal) with that benignity wherewith you are wont to receive our Men, receive this small gift of our Order; and permit the most famous name of Peter Aldobrandino to be carried over most remote nations and countries, together with the History of Loreto, that it may be a monument of your singular devotion towards the B. Virgin of Loreto, and a pledge of our grateful & propense good will towards your name.  
Farewell.   


THE AUTHORS WHICH ARE ALLEGED IN THIS HISTORY.  
Friar Leander Albertus.  
Ambrose Novidius  
The Annals of Flumen alleged by Hier. Angelita.  
The Annals of Recanati alleged by the same.  
The Annals of Loreto which Raphael Riera left in manuscript.  
S. Antoninus Bishop of Florence.  
Baptista Mantuanus.  
Venerable Bede.  
S. Bernard Abbot of Clarevallis.  
Bernardine Cyrillus  
Blondus.   

The Breves.  
Of Benedict the XII.  
Of Boniface the IX.  
Of Martin the V.  
Of Nicolas the V.  
Of Xystus the IV.  
Of Paul the IV.  
Of julius the II.  
Of Leo the X.  
Of Clement the VII.  
Of Paul the III.  
Of julius the III.  
Of Gregory the XIII.  
Of Clement the VIII.   

The Books wherein the donaries of Loreto are recorded.  
The Chronicle of S. Francis.  
Diarium julij Secundi.  
Francis Vicciardinus.  
William Tyrius.  
S. Hierome.  
Hierome Angelita.  
james Victriacus.  
john Villanus.  
judocus Clitoveus.  
Nicephorus Callistus.  
Onuphrius.  
Paulus AEmilius.  
Platina.  
Tereman the Governor.  
Sabellicus.  
Victor Brigantius.    

  

THE FIRST BOOK OF THE HISTORY OF LORETO: Collected by the Reverend F. HORATIUS TURSELLINUS Of the Society of JESUS.  

THE PREFACE.  
HAVING now a long time done my endeavour to unfold from the beginning to our age, the History of the house of Loreto, which many have rather begun then finished, and most earnestly desired: I pray God as the work hath been difficult and painful, so it may be profitable. For almost all the monuments of this History, which are to be found of Loreto, Recanati, Rome, or elsewhere, have been perused with great labour and diligence; out of which I have gathered, and so digested, whatsoever seemed to appertain to this matter, that they might make one reasonable volume. And the solicitude of the success, made the care of this present work the greater. For no small, nor few things to be spoken of, did occur unto me, as I was about to enter into it, to disanimate & avert my mind, from that which I purposed. And first truly the very beginnings of this sacred Chapel are so admirable and so unusual, that they may seem almost incredible, if the judgements of Almighty God were to be weighed by human reason. Then the indiligence of our forefathers in committing such things to writing, hath diminished a good part of this History. Besides, it seemed a spice of arrogancy, to hope for better event in a thing which many writers of no small account had assayed with no good success. And last of all my own disability began to accuse me; lest I might be thought to have undertaken the burden of so weighty a work, with greater confidence than judgement; being specially to rehearse those things, which because they seem in a sort incredible, by discoursing might be made less than they be indeed. Whereupon it was to be feared, that I might rather withdraw, then add any thing to the worthy fame of this most Sacred Church, and with my lost labour might purchase nothing else, but the reprehension of the wise. But when I had recollected my self, my mind was animated, and difficulties ceased. For although the thing be admirable, and never heard of before: yet now it is known to be so certain, and manifest, as to controverse or doubt thereof, were wickedness. For being received of our forefathers, as it were, from hand to hand, with great fidelity; even so did they deliver it to posterity. Which is not grounded on the monuments of the slavonians, and of Recanati only, but also on the authority of Historiographers, and of the Roman Bishops. Also the constant consent of so many Ages, and the concourse of all nations, hath confirmed the ancient report hereof. Besides, the incredible multitude, as well of Vows, as the abundance of Donaries, make the religion of the place most illustrious. And finally the old Miracles of this most Sacred House, do not more beautify the same; then the new ones daily do: that none may doubt of a thing so witnessed and known, unless he will either doubt of the power and providence of God, or take away from mankind human fidelity. And truly if we show, that the beginnings of this most Sacred Church, ennobled with the birth of the B. Virgin, and with the Conception of God, are far more majestical than others, all nations must allow that special grace, with no less willingness, than they approve the special help thereof. And albeit the indiligence of our fore fathers, hath bereaved us of the fullness of many things; yet it hath not deprived us of the substance of the chiefest matter, who not regarding small things, showed themselves diligent in greater. Therefore if this my simple present, shall be acceptable to the B. Virgin, (as I hope it will) truly I mistrust not, but that the rest will be facile & expedite unto me. For when MARY assisteth, nothing can succeed amiss. But if peradventure this my labour be not answerable, either to the greatness of the thing, almost incredible, or else to the expectation of the learned; truly it shall be my contentment, to have done my uttermost endeavour, to perpetuate the memory of so famous a miracle, being the glory of the B. Virgin mother of God, the protection of mankind, and even the inflamed desire of all godly people. And unless the affection of this present work deceive me, there is scarce any History of this kind, more famous for miracles, richer for examples, more frequent for practice, or pleasanter for profit. For here may you behold the divers and manifold protections of the B. Virgin of Loreto. Here her present help in all manner of dangers: here most of her miracles & wonders, laid before you in a worthy monument: from whence you may entreat help for yourself, for your family and City; for the diversity of times as need shall require. And to me truly Italy seemeth to have a great pledge of God's benevolence, to the which, even from Galiley itself, was sent so rare and so great a gi●t; that in time of adversuie she may hope, that she shall never want her patronage, whose native House she enjoyeth as a surety & bail from God himself. Moreover Almighty God hath inspired into the hearts of mortal men, such devotion towards the place, that whosoever come to the house of Loreto seem not so much to come to the house of the Virgin, as to the B. Virgin herself. For here in very deed, both Almighty God and his B. mother, declare their presence, after a certain marvelous manner: Hence is strooken that divine fear into the hearts of all, at their very entrance into this most Sacred House: Hence cometh that desire to them that are to departed from it, to revisit it again: Hence that notable mutation of desperate and notorious wicked minds to the contrary. Which continual miracles of the House of Loreto, are so evident, that albeit others were wanting, as they abound, yet these alone might make sufficient proof to any creature, of the presence of Almighty God in so much that there is none (though desperate & wicked) but if he visit the house of Loreto may not easily perceive Almighty God to be present with his B. Mother, in his Mother's little House. This is special and proper to the Church of Loreto, to have her religion and sanctity to flourish every day more and more, which may easily appear in comparison of other famous Churches, either of our B. Lady or else of other Saints. For when their celebrity and reverence hath flourished for a certain time, we know that it hath diminished by little and little: but by the space of so many ages, we evidently see, that because the majesty of this Church, is grounded on most firm foundations, it doth daily become more glorious and more holy. Wherefore Almighty God, and his B. Mother assisting us, of whom this whole work doth entreat, and on whose help we most rely; we will now begin the History itself, which truly through their gracious favour, will not be so painful I hope unto the writer, as profitable unto the reader. And albeit the beginning of the House of Loreto, be scarce derived above three hundred years; yet necessarily must it be deduced higher, that the whole discourse may more purely flow, from the head and fountain itself.   

THE NATIVE HOUSE of our B. LADY is reverenced with great honour in Galiley, whiles the Christian faith remaineth in Palestine. CHAP. I.  
THE native house of the B. Virgin, in time past was in Galiley, a Province of Syria, where in the town of Nazareth, our B. Lady herself was borne and brought up; where she conceived our eternal God, by foretelling of the Angel: And where the footstepes of God and his F. mother, sovereign to mankind, were first imprinted. The sanctity of which place, was neither unknown, nor at any time neglected of godly people. For first of all it is well known, that our B. Lady hath always been of great name & veneration among Christians; whereof the Apostles themselves were the authors, 
The Apostles consecrate the h use of our B. Lady.  who rightly consecrated the B. Virgin's house, either to preserve the memory thereof to posterity, or else to increase the Christian religion thereby. From which time the Apostles themselves reverenced it with exceeding honour, and also commanded that others should worship it with like devotion. And the Apostles authority prevailed with posterity. For all succeeding ages have contendingly reverenced the birthplace of the heavenly Queen, & the steps of God's Conception, with such devotion and honour, as it deserved. Therefore about 300. years after Christ's Nativity (Christian affairs beginning then to flourish, with long peace renewing all things, under the protection of Constantine the Great) S. Helen the Empress adorned this little House of the Blessed Virgin with a goodly Church. For pilgrimaging into Palestine (as Nicephorus delivereth) and with sacred buildings adorning the places, which were sanctified with divine mysteries, 
S. Helen doth adorn it with a Church. lib. 8. ca 30  She came to Nazareth, and finding out the House of the Angelical Salutation, built there a sumptuous Church. Fron which time, those holy places began to be reverenced more than before, not only by the Asians and Africans, but of the Europians also; and the native House of our B. Lady, glorious for the heavenly Embassage and Conception of the divine issue, was more earnestly reverenced of godly people. Proof is that S. Hierome, a pillar of the Roman Church, 
S. Hierom & S Paula do visit it.  and B. Paula a woman of the chiefest nobility of Rome, visiting that holy Land, went as S. Hierome termeth it, to Nazareth the nursery of our Lord. And this devotion continued many ages; 
Epist. 27 ad Eusto.  for about the 700. year of our Redemption, when Jerusalem was taken by the Saracens by force of arms, the sacred places of Syria, 
Guil. Tyr. lib. 1 bell. Sac.  and the Church, wherein was the House, in which the Angel saluted our B. Lady, was visited of the Europian pilgrims. Author hereof is Venerable Bede, soon after that age: for the State of Jerusalem, 
De loc. Sanc.  and of the Christians in Palestine, was not then so bad under the Saracens, as afterward it was under the Turks; who conquering Syria and Jerusalem about the year of our Redemption, 
Guil. Tyr. lib. 1  one thousand and fifty, began to dishonour the Christian name many reproachful ways. The same whereof incensed Pope Urban the second, 
Idem lib. ●  by a new Breve to proclaim sacred war. In which by the forces of the Europians, but specially of the French nobility, under the conduct of Godfrey Duke of Lorraine, 
Paul Aemil. lib. 4. Jerusalem is recovered.  Jerusalem, and Palestine were recovered, about the year one thousand one hundred. Whereby as long as the Kingdom of Jerusalem stood, the religion of those holy places did chief flourish, among which the native House of the B. Virgin, obtained not the meanest place. For which cause Tancred a Norman by birth (whose worthy virtue was very famous in the sacred war) and being Precedent of Galiley adorned the Church of Nazareth with many notable gifts, which afterward, not so much the wealth, 
The Church of Nazareth is made the Metropolitan  as the sanctity of the place, made the Metropolitan or principal Church, as witnesseth William Archbishop of Tyrus, who lived here those times. Likewise james Victriacus Patriarch of Jerusalem, who lived shortly after, 
Guil. Tyr. lib. 9  doth also deliver, that he often went to Nazareth for devotion sake, and sundry times celebrated divine service in the House, where our B. Lady was saluted by the Angel, the very anniversary day of the Annunciation itself. About which time began the two most notable Orders of sacred soldiers, 
Guil. Tyr. lib. 12. & 13. Paul. Aemil. lib. 5.  to wit, the Templaries, & S. john's, both chief ordained to entertain and defend the Pilgrims, that visited those holy places. The fame whereof prevailed so much, that the native house of our B. Lady of Nazareth was reverenced of the Transalpines, and them that dwelled beyond the seas, as well as the Sepulchre at Jerusalem, and at Bethleem the birthplace of our Lord. But this quietness continued not long: For Saladine King of Egypt overcoming and taking in battle, Balduine the fift, (than King of Jerusalem) forthwith waged war on every side, and brought Jerusalem, 
Paul. Aemil. lib. 4.  and other Cities and towns thereabout into his Dominion, about 90. years after the Christians had recovered them. Whereupon Conrade the Emperor, Philip of France the second, and Richard King of England, 
Paul. Aemil. lib. 6.  passed over into Syria with great forces, either to recover Jerusalem, or else to keep the possession of Palestine. But they returned home without their purpose, circumvented and dissolved, either with the subtleties of the Enemy, or with the guile of the Country or else by discord among themselves. After whom followed the Emperor Frederick the second, who also was King of Sicily, and entitled to the Kingdom of Jerusalem: who through the persuasion and instigation of Gregory the 9 at last conveyed an army into Syria. 
Paul. Aemil. lib. 7.  But entering into friendship and society with the King of Egypt, he recovered Jerusalem and other bordering towns, with money, & not by arms, the year 1225. whereby his fame was greater than his desert; the possession thereof proving no longer, then glorious. For few years after, the Parthians being driven out of their country, by the Scythians and Tartarians, invaded Syria, & razed Jerusalem, (lately repaired by Frederick the Emperor) down to the ground. Whereupon Lewes the 9 (who at that time was King of France) about the 45. year or that age, 
Paul. Aemil. lib. 7.  sailed into Syria with great forces, to aid the Christian cause upon decaying. But all his endeavour came at length to nothing: for the godly King subduing the frontiers of Egypt (sometime called Pelusium but now Damiata) in the beginning waged many fortunate battles with the King of Egypt: but afterward being pestered with the plague, he was constrained to purchase peace of his enemy, by surrendering up Damiata. Finally when his enterprise in Syria had no prosperous event, he withdrew his army: but before his departure, that his expedition into Syria might not be in vain, he purposed to carry thence some profit, if not of war, 
jod. Clito. ser. de S. Ludou.  at least of piety. For visiting those holy places of Palestine, from the mount Thabor (as some affirm) he went to Nazareth. And as soon as he saw the House of our B. Lady, he speedily alighted from his horse, 
S. Lewes doth visit the house of our B. Lady.  fel● down on his knees, and with great veneration saluted the native House of the B. Virgin, and the B. Virgin herself, going thence afoot to the Church to reverence and worship the Son of God, there made man for the love of man, and also his most holy mother the B. Virgin MARY. And the sacred and festival day of the Annunciation of Gabriel the Archangel, and of the B. Virgin's Conceiving or God being then at hand, the godly King (as the sanctity of the place and his own devotion moved him) did fast the day before with bread and water only, wearing a haircloth next unto his skin. Upon the festival day itself, he commanded that divine service should be celebrated with great solemnity, and Princely ornature, and after the Dreadful Sacrifice, he himself received the most sacred Eucharist, in the majestical Cell of the B. Virgin the Mother of God, with great abundance of tears, and singular devotion. Truly a rare document of Christian piety unto posterity, especially in a King, whereby we may conjecture how highly the sacred house of the B. Virgin was esteemed even in those days. But the Christian name, & the reverence of the holy places of Syria, were not quite extinguished by the departure of King Lewes. 
S. Antonin. par. 3. Paul. Aemil.  For the Templaries remained yet in their Catholic faith, & in their office, & now & then being aided with help beyond the Seas, defended the Relics of the holy land with all their might. But in very deed assoon as Civil wars began to rage in Italy, by the deadly factions of the Guelses & Gibellines; & at the same time, the Kings of England, France & Arragon, breaking also into arms, the Furopians altogether neglected the Christian state in Syria, and the Barbarians much decaying it, gave it at last an utter overthrow. For the King of Egypt thinking the dissension of Christian Princes his advantage, took Tripoli by force of arms, & razed it down; and from thence went to besiege Ptolemaidis, the famous and most frequented City of Phenicia, which then alone of all the Cities in Palestine, did stand for the Christians, and at last having conquered it, he destroyed it with fire & sword. And the Barbarians had so desperate a hatred to the Christian name, that they slew all the Citizens, threw their houses and walls down to the ground: & which is more, digged up the very foundation of the walls themselves, that no memory of Christianity might remain in Syria. And thus having lost Ptolemaidis, we were driven for ever (as it may seem) out of the possession of Palestine, the year of our Redemption, one thousand two hundred ninety one, whereby the Christian inhabitants partly forsook Syria, and partly, as sometimes it happeneth, conformed themselves to the manners of their Lords. And forrenners and Pilgrims had been frighted thence by this terror of the Turkish fury, but that their access is allowed for money Yet this fatal calamity hath not utterly abolished the ancient reverence of the holy Sepulchre, which for devotions sake was held in chiefest reverence. For the opportunity of Jerusalem once a Kingly seat, but now the chiefest City inviteth Pilgrims unto her; whose fame the nearness of the birth place of Christ our Lord do the maintain and favour. But the distance of the places and desert ways, not a little infested with the arms of the Barbarians, made the native house of our Lady (situated in Galiley) inconvenient for the devotion of Pilgrims, which was the cause of a wonderful miracle, and such a one indeed, as from the memory of man, was never heard of to that day.   

The sacred House having lost her honour in Galiley, is miraculously transported into Dalmatia. CHAP. II.  
WHEN due reverence could not be done to the most Sacred Chapel, neither by the inhabitants nor foreign people, Almighty God permitted not the sovereign footsteps of himself and his B. mother, to lie long neglected among the Barbarians. For the very year, which was notorious for the extreme overthrow of Palestine, this sacred House most dear to God himself, together with the Christian Religion departed out of Syria. john Villanus a famous Historiographer of that age, 
Toan Villa. lib. 7.  doth witness, that Ptolemaidis was taken about the midst of the month of April, the year 1221. & in the next month of the same year, that is to say the 7. of the Ideses of May, 
Anual. Flum.  Nicholas the fourth being Pope (as the Sclavonian Chronicles record) the sacred House of the B. Virgin was transported into Europe, 
Annal. Elum. apud Hiero. Angel.  recompensing the calamity of the East, with this inestimable good of the West. Some there are, who considering the wealth of joachim the B. Virgin's father, think that this was not his house, but rather a chamber apart, from the rest thereof. But truly it misliketh not me, to be of their opinion, who think it to be both the Chamber and House of the B. Virgin, to wit, the chiefest part of her father's house. Proof whereof (to say nothing of the armory of the earthen vessel there to be seen) is the door far greater, then for a chamber alone, separated from the other building. Neither must the state of joachim move us; for Nicephorus Callistus delivereth, 
Niceph. lib. 1. c. 30  that by reason of the warlike tumults of jewrie, the parents of the B. Virgin forsaking the town of Bethleem, their ancestors seat, and going into Galiley, set up a little house at Nazareth: that we may understand, that this was not their ancestors, but the B. Virgins father's house, not fitting peradventure his calling, but being provided for the time, it was not surely incommodious, nor differing from the use of that ancient simplicity: Yet altogether such a one it is, that it seemeth to breathe the exceeding love of our B. Lady towards poverty. But whether it were the Chamber or the House of the mother of God, truly being dedicated by the Apostles (as we said before) and reduced into the form of a Church, continually all Christians did devoutly reverence and adorn the same.  
Wherefore this most sacred House, by his virtue and power, who at the prayers of S. Gregory Thaumaturge, in time passed removed a mountain out of his place, and transferred it an other way, in favour of the Queen of heaven, was taken up from the foundations, and doubtless by the handworke of Angels was transported (a wonder to be spoken and heard) by great distances of land and sea, even from Galiley into Dalmatia, which is more than twenty hundred miles. Between Tersact and Flumen (two towns of Dalmatia) there is a mountain not very high, in the top whereof the plain superficies of the ground, doth make a pleasant seat, open to the Adriatic sea, which in time past being notoriously dangerous by reason of many daily & foul tempests, since that time (as the report goeth) is become very calm and quiet. You may believe that the B. Virgin would restrain those furious seas by the presence of her Cell; that even by this we might conjecture, what she would effect in the life of mortal men, which is daily tossed with divers chances, and as it were, with sundry storms. Therefore even here, about the second Vigil of the night, by commandment of the mother of God, heavenly ministers did seat the most sacred house of Nazareth, that it might be a most certain succour to all that were any way endangered: and assoon as the morning light showed this gift of the divine liberality to the inhabitants, in very deed not only admiration, but also devotion & piety was powered into their hearts, dismayed with the strangeness of the thing. Whereupon they that were nearest at hand, assoon as they espied it, ran contendingly with desire to see it. 
The description of the House of Loreto, as it was in those days  And they beheld a little house with a sharp roof, graced as well with the top of a chimney, as with a little bell hanging up on height; but in nothing more remarkable, then for the antiquity thereof. Forthwith going into the house itself, they prostrated their bodies on the ground to worship Almighty God, who mercifully vouchsafed to replenish them with a certain sacred dread & unwonted joy. After their prayer to Christ and his B. mother, whose Images they saw, they began leisurely to view and review all with their eyes; and perceived that the sacred Chapel, was of a long square form, built of ordinary stone, having a fair roof vaulted with frets: which being divided with small squares, and flourished with blue colours, was beautified with guilded stars which glittered in the divisions, as if it had been in a certain heaven. Under the vaulted roof, round about the walls, there appeared small semicircles touching each other, the midles whereof were adorned with painted pots. The walls were almost a cubit thick, levied neither by rule nor square, but covered with plastered work; whereupon was drawn an ancient painting, to express the mysteries of the house itself; which upward till this day remaineth in many places, but downward hath decayed by antiquity of time. The length of the sacred house, is about 40. foot; the breadth less than 20: and the height about 25. Some thing near the midst of the wall, which in time past (as I suppose) was the forefront of the sacred house, there is a large door, but truly not differing from the common sort, which in steed of a transome, hath a plain beam laid upon it. On the left hand standeth a little Cupbourd of simple work, made to keep earthen vessel: on the right hand in the next wall, there is a window, not very bog, and over against the window, a mean and a slender chimney of common workmanship, as the rest are. And even here standeth a high nicet, and vaulted with an arch of the same work, resembling five moons joined together. In which Nicet is placed a Cedar Image of our B. Lady standing, 
The Image of our. B. Lady.  being about two cubit's high; who with her left hand embraceth the sweet child jesus about the midst, and supporteth him with the right. Her face is varnished with amber, giving a s●uer glass, but darkened with the smoke of the lights; yet this very darkening (a token of antiquity and religion) doth exceedingly increase the majesty of her virginal countenance. A crownet of jewels doth adorn the top of her head. Her train of hair doth fall along her bare neck and shoulders, after the fashion of the Nazarens. The Image itself is clothed with a guilt garment, which is girded round about with a broad girdle, hanging down to the feet, according to the use of that country, and also covered with a blue mantle sitting decently about her from the top of her shoulders, both the one and the other carved, and wrought in the same stem. The sweet child jesus, doth rest on his mother's right hand, more majestically then in mortal shape, resembling in his countenance, the disposition of a certain divine Majesty, and lifting up the foresingers of his right hand, as if he would bless something, and in his left hand holding a golden globe; so that with his train of hair, with his long garment and girdle, he also doth represent the Nazarens attire. Before the Image of the mother of God, there is an Altar of free stone squared, seeming to breath forth sanctity. When the Dalmatians had viewed all this with leisure, albeit they were ignorant what it was, yet with common consent they agreed, that whatsoever it was, it was doubtless the gift of God: neither was it newly erected from the ground, but verily by the ordination and will of God, was brought from some other place. Departing therefore thence, whomsoever they met, they told what they had seen: whereupon many (and among them some diseased people) flocked to the new spectacle of so great a thing, expecting some help thereby. And their hope deceived them not: for to sound bodies the religion of the place imparted health of mind, and to diseased, the our of their infirmities.   

By revelation of the mother of God, her house is known, & honoured, with an evident miracle. CHAP. III.  
THE fame of this prodigious Chapel, 
Annal. Flum. apud Hiero. Angel.  coming speedily to Tersact anm Flumen, kindled in the healthful a desire to see it, and in the diseased, no small hope of recovering their health. Alexander a man of great virtue, dear both to God and man, 
Alexander Bishop of Tersact  being Bishop in the house of S. George of Tersact; and having lain sick of a long and a grievous disease, lived in little hope of life, when very opportunely, he was certified of this divine House by his familiar friends. Whereupon he had a vehement desire to behold the comfort of so great a miracle: but sickness oppressing him he could not be carried unto it, without manifest peril of his life; which seemed more grievous unto him, than the burning of the fever itself, that his distressed body would not follow the affection of his mind. Notwithstanding he despaired not or himself, being acertained that the Image of the mother of God was brought thither with that divine House. Thinking it therefore to be a Chapel of our B. Lady; he earnestly implored her help, & made a Vow unto her, hoping not only to recover his health, but also to know from above, the mystery of that heavenly gift. 
Our B. Lady appeareth to Alexander.  In the quiet night when he was between sleeping and waking, the Mother of God descending suddenly from heaven, presented herself unto him in glorious brightness, and filling all the chamber with a most clear light, with a gracious countenance said unto him. Be of good comfort, my son, behold being called upon, I am come to bring thee present help, & notice of the thing thou desirest. Therefore so it is, that the Sacred House, which was lately brought to your coasts, is the very same, where in times past I was borne, & for the most part was brought up: where by foretelling of Gabriel the Archangel, through the work of the Holy Ghost I conceived the Divine issue, where also the word itself was made flesh. Therefore after our descease, the Apostles did rightly consecrated the House which was honoured with such mysteries, and did contendingly celebrate there divine service. The Altar which is brought therewith, is that which Peter the Apostle did consecrated: the Image of Christ crucified, the Apostles themselves placed, where at this present it standeth: and the Cedar Image is out representation, made by the hand of Luke the Evangelist, who for the familiarity that was between us, expressed our similitude in colours, as lively as a mortal creature could do. And this very House, most dear to heaven itself, was reverenced in Galiley with great honour for these many ages; but now the reverence thereof failing together with the Catholic faith, it is come from the town of Nazareth to your parts: whereof no doubt at all is to be made, for God himself is the worker of it, With whom no word is impossible. And that thou thyself mayst be both the witness and the publisher of this, which I have said, be thou cured; that thy sudden recovery of so long a sickness may give credit unto the miracle. And when she had spoken thus unto him, she mounted up towards heaven, leaving a certain heavenly odour behind her in the house. And that it was not the fallacy of a dream, or of a distracted mind, but a true vision indeed, the event of the thing did show. For the Bishop awaking between joy & fear, began to be all bedewed with sweat, 
Alexander is cured.  and perceiving that the fever was suddenly gone, arose safe and sound out of his bed. And conceiving no less joy for the tidings of the House of Nazareth then for his own recovery, he fell down on his knees, and listing up both eyes and hands to heaven, gave manifold thanks to God and his B. mother for the double benefit, greatly rejoicing that they had vouchsafed to bestow so great a gift on himself, on his country & people. Assoon therefore, as it was day, with exceeding gladness he came forth among the people, and being a man of that age, he forgot gravity and authority, and like to one distracted, began to run up and down the streets, the Courts & by-ways, declaring his nights vision to as many as he met, known or unknown, and every where publishing that gift of God, and his B. mother, as well common to all, as peculiar to himself. And such was his voice and countenance, such fervour of mind appeared in his eyes, as might easily give credit to his speeches. Whereunto was added an undoubted argument, to wit, sudden health of body & strength in him, who before was so cruelly afflicted with a long and grievous fever, that the other day he was known to be in exceeding danger. And assoon as this news was divulged among the greater part of the Inhabitants of that town; forthwith great concourse was made unto the Bishop, and strivingly with one common voice, they extolled the heavenvly gift, in token of thanks giving to God & his B. mother. As chief among the congratulatours and rejoices, went the Bishop himself, exulting with joy, and making haste to see the native house of the B. Virgin. Whither assoon as he came, he very reverently performed the Vow which he had made: whose religious example imprinted greater devotion in the hearts of mortal men, specially because he himself the author thereof was no vain man, nor an uncertain report noised abroad. Whereupon this most holy house (illustrious for miracles) was daily celebrated and reverenced of the Inhabitants with greater devotion. News whereof first passed to the bordering, then to places far remote, and in short time all the people thereabout esteemed it most holy, and burned with desire, at length to see so unusual and so venerable a thing.   

The miracle is sought out by certain men sent into Galiley. CHAP. FOUR  
VERY happily at that time, Nicolas Frangipane a man of the chiefest nobility of Rome, for his piety and godliness, being made Precedent of Croatia, Dalmaia and Istria (of the inhabitants called the Great Ban) governed that Country where this miracle happened, who also was Lord of Tersact and Flumen: and being not a little moved both with the miracle which happened on his land, as also with the relation and sudden recovery of Alexander the Bishop, at first he was amazed thereat. But afterward rejoicing that the heavenly gift had seated itself happily in his jurisdiction, he hastened speedily unto the mountain, and determined to reverence and adorn the most Sacred House, with such gifts as was behoveful for him. But because the strangeness of the thing passed the memory, and the greatness, the belief of man, he thought good that so unwonted and unknown a miracle with diligence was to be inquired of: for he seared lest their credulity might be suspected of others, or that so notable a thing, might be of greater admiration than credit with posterity. Whereupon consulting thereof with the Bishop, they determined to send certain men into Galiley, to inquire out the matter with great care. Among all the people, four of approved credit and virtue, were chosen, whereof Alexander the Bishop was one, whom they sent to Nazareth, commanding them to bring them word of all that they found concerning the native House of the B. Virgin: who without delay, shipping themselves, and sailing along the Adriatic, the Siculum, the Cretike and Cypress seas, arrived at Palestine with good success: and pacifying the Barbarians with money, worshipped the most sacred Sepulchre of Christ at Jerusalem. From whence with public passport, and guarded with a strong company of armed men, they continued their journey to Nazareth, a City of Galiley, the end of their travel; where carefully enquiring of the inhabitants (not Christians so much in effect, as in word) they assured them that the native House of the B. Virgin, was taken thence not long before; and brought them to the Church, which long agone Helen the Empress caused to be made to invirone the sacred house that they themselves might behold the ruins thereof miraculously broken down. They also showed them the floor, where the sacred house had stood, that they might likewise view the foundations, & the late impressions of the house which was taken thence. Whereupon measuring the length and the breadth of the floor, & the thickness of the foundations, they found all things exactly to agree with the measures of the House and the walls transported into Dalmatia, which for that purpose they had brought with them: Also the time of the departure of the majestical Chapel from thence, and the coming of it into Dalmatia doth well accord. So returning home again with exceeding joy and gratulation, they related all that they had found to Frangipane the Precedent; who taking no small contentment in such a message, with flowing tears of joy, gave manifold thanks to Almighty God and his B. mother, that not only in his life time, but in manner looking on, so great a miracle had happened, confirmed with such evident wonders, & the authority of such men. Wherefore incontinently they made a solemn and a religious procession to the House of the B. Virgin, & performed it with great concourse both of men and women, where Alexander the Bishop in steed of a Sermon, related the matter in order unto the people, protesting openly before God and the B. Virgin, before mortal and immortal, that he would add nothing to the manifest truth, if it were otherwise, he would not gainsay, that the wrath of God should lay punishment upon him: yet in this respect they well hoped to be in greater favour with the mother of God, for that they had made a thing almost incredible most manifest and known. When the assembled multitude heard these speeches, falling as it were from heaven, they were suddenly overcome with so great joy, that they could not refrain, but with their gratulations and tears confused him, uttering these things unto them: so that the prayers of the auditory giving thanks to God and his B. mother, with the heartiest signs and tokens they could, hindered the Bishop's conclusion. It is wonderful what credit, not only the inhabitants, but even strangers themselves gave unto him rehearsing and affirming those things; and what concourse and reverence was done to the most sacred Cell at the report of such men. Neither were there wanting many & famous miracles, seeing from all parts, feeble, impotent and possessed persons were there to be cured; notwithstanding there wanted some, to have delivered them particularly to writing. With the concourse of people and the manifold miracles, the religion & reverence of the place did not a little increase. For the exceeding care which they saw settled in the hearts of the inhabitants towards this majestical House (because the B. Virgin herself seemed as it were present at suppliants prayers) filled all with so great devotion, that they imagined, that that place was inhabited, and nor beloved only, of the B. Virgin mother of God. Therefore with striving emulation, they began to reverence & beautify the native House of the Virgin, and the B. Virgin herself, by all the means they could and were able: but scarcity of wealth hindering their liberal minds, they adorned it rather with piety than with magnificence; but so that in short time, it began to be reverenced and honoured with the recourse of far remote people. For news of the thrice fortunate House, being daily more and more spread abroad, to wit, that the native habitation of our B. Lady, was miraculously brought from Galiley to Tersact, and that men of approved virtue and credit, going to Nazareth, found it was most certain and manifest, did not only provoke the remotest slavonians, but also the Istrians, Croatians, Bosnians, Seruians, Epidaurians, and the other people of that Country, to visit so great a miracle & gift. And the present help of the B. Virgin, imparted to many in time of their distress & calamity, did also daily increase the celebrity of the p●ace; so much, that the slavonians which dwelled by, greatly rejoiced at such concourse of people to the Sacred House, boasting that their Country was of great glory with foreign people & nations, & by the common vice of human arrogancy believed, that Almighty God himself had preferred them before other nations, measuring heavenly gifts rather by the merits of men, than the benignity of Al. God.   

The Sacred House departeth out of Sclavonie with great lamentation of the Dalmatians. CHAP. V.  

Annal. Flum. Hieron. Angel.  BUT this joy and heavenly gift continued not long with the slavonians: within less than four years (for there wanted five months) the Sacred House departed out of their coasts; the the cause whereof is uncertain, for divers do diversly report. Whether therefore the inhabitants did reverence it with less care than they ought to have done, or whether from the beginning (to the short comfort of that nation) our B. Lady did purpose to make it a place of passage, rather than of abode, or whether it were to relieve Italy, the fortress of Christian Religion with present help, at that time afflicted with wars and calamities; suddenly the heavenly gift was taken from the Dalmatians, when they mistrusted no such thing, and brought into Italy with as great good and joy of the Italians, as damage and lamentation of the Dalmatians. For as soon as it was known and published abroad, that the divine pledge, & the most Sacred Cell of the B. Virgin was carried to some other place, in very deed the admiration of so strange and unexpected news struck the people of Tersact and the borderers thereabout into great astonishment, being so moved with the desire which they had unto it, that they ran to and fro like distracted people, and all their country over, sought and inquired after the gift, which Almighty God had given and taken from them again. And when they could not find it, nor learn whither it was removed; the confused multitude of men and women (wounded with the grief of so great a loss) remained a while in mornfull silence. But when their astonishment was a little past, they broke out all together into tears and plaints, & with wonderful lamentation began to discover the great damage of their nation. To wit, that the heavenly gift was but showed to them, and given unto others: that, that refuge of Dalmatia, that succour of the diseased, that solace of the wretched, that ornament and defence of their nation, was taken from them, that such a Patroness of the Dalmatians, and such a Protectress of their neighbourly people, had now forsaken them: that they were altogether unworthy of such a pledge, because they reverenced it with less devotion and care, than they ought to have done. But what religion, what care, what reverence of any people whatsoever can be answerable to that heavenly and most excellent gift? If this were the cause, why she changed her seat, wheresoever she is seated, forthwith she may well change her seat again. This and such like moan they all made, for the departure of it, which the present feeling and grief of their loss suggested unto them, not easy for the writer to relate. Finally being overcome with wearisomeness, rather than with the satiety of lamenting, they went swarming to Frangipane the Praetor, and there again renewing their wailing, they asked of him advise and help. And though he himself did need comfort, as wounded with the common grief, & more sorrowful than was fitting for his part; notwithstanding he overcame himself, and dissembling his sorrow, assuaged the lamentation of the people with his authority and wisdom: In very deed (quoth he) so it is, that you have received so great a loss, that Almighty God could hardly lay upon you a greater for offending him; that no tears, no sighs, no wailing, is able to extinguish your grief of mind. But now truly you seem to complain without cause seeing Almighty God hath granted you the use of the heavenvly gift without prescribing any time, & therefore there is no reason, why you should grieve that it is required again, when he would have it so, that gave it; but rather should give God thanks for granting you the use of so great and so fruitful a pledge for certain years, and should recompense the present discommodity, with memory of the former commodities. And he promised them to do his best endeavour, in some sort to supply the great loss, which they had received by the departure of the heavenly gift, and to satisfy their desire towards so great a good: For in the very impression of the most Sacred Chapel, he was determined to erect such an other house to the B. Virgin, that it might be as well a monument of so great a thing to posterity, as a solace to them for their grievous loss, whereby he was in good hope, though the native House of the B. Virgin was wanting, that her help would not be wanting unto them. And indeed the Precedents words were not more magnificent than his works. For within few years at his own cost and charge, he caused a new Chapel to be placed in the same impressions, which was dedicated to the mother of God, and environed it with a Church, magnificent for workmanship and reverence, which at this day is extant, for no less a monument of the Frangipanes munificence, then of so great a miracle. Neither did the B. Virgin suffer the words of the founder of her Church to be uttered in vain: for afterward sundry miracles were wrought in that place, to show plainly that the seat itself was pleasing to the B. Virgin, and her help not wanting to the slavonians. And the said Church at this day is committed to the government of the Franciscans, 
The desire of the Dalmatians to the most sacred House.  which are called De obseruantia, and is most famous for celebrity and fame in those parts. But this did not so much extinguish as enkindle the Dalmatians desire to the House of Nazareth: for it is now three hundred years since it departed thence, & yet they bewail to remember that so great a good was taken from them, as if the damage were newly done them. Proof is, that yearly passing the Adriatic sea, and coming to Loreto in great troops, they do not seem to do more reverence to the native House of the B. Virgin, then to lament the detriment of their nation: whose solemn plaints, Return to us O MARY, Return to us, do not a little signify, that their desire shall be everlasting, seeing it is nothing at all abated in the space of three hundred years, & also witness that the House of Nazareth was transported out of Sclavonie into Italy.   

The Sacred House is transported into Picene, & seated in a wood of Recanati. CHAP. VI  

Praep. Terem. Hier. Angel.  THIS heavenly gift was passed over into Italy very happily the year, 1294. at which time, Italy being divided with the deadly factions of the Guelses & Gibellines, was all miserably vexed with hatreds and more than civil wars. Therefore in the interraigne, when Bonifacius the 8. was created Pope, the fourth of the Ideses of December, a remarkable day, and worthy everlasting memory, the B. mother of God, bringing peace and quietness to Italy, chose her House a seat in Picene. 
* In Italiam called Marc-Aneona.  Picene is a Province of Italy of no small renown and wealth, situated over against Dalmatia, the Adriatic sea flowing between, which also is called the Superum. And this most sacred House being brought out or Dalmatia into Picene over the Adria icke sea, where the passage is n●e●e an hundred miles, was seated in a wood of the territory of Recanati, about a mile from the sea, which belonged to a certain matron of Recanati, both rich and godly, whose name was Laureta: of whom ever after b●ing called the House of Loreto, it gave immortal praise to her, from whom it took that name. The report goeth (neither is it without truth) that the trees which were in the way as the little House of our B. Lady came thither, bowed down as it were to reverence it; and afterward remained stooping until they were consumed with age, with wind or with the axe. And as long as the wood stood (which at this present is cut down) the said trees were wont to be showed to the Pilgrims in a long rank, to witness so great a miracle. Which some do yet well remember; for a man of good credit told me, that sundry times with great admiration, he himself had seen very many of those trees, not much above twenty years ago; that is to say, stooping with all their bodies, and bowing towards that part of the sea, over which the most sacred House passed on high, to her ordained seat in the wood. And the same trees being preserved for devotion sake, did also remain long after the underwood was destroyed: but at last about 20. years agone, they were cut down by the foolishness of the rude husbandmen, lest they should hinder their tillage. In the quiet night the sacred House of the B. Virgin was seated in a void place of the aforesaid wood. At which time the shepherds of Recanati keeping their flocks in the next chase, and dividing the vigil of the night amongst them (as their manner is) suddenly a great light environing the sacred House, drew the eyes of the warders unto it: To whom it seemed wonderful upon the sudden, to see a new house in that solitary place, but specially glittering with great brightness: and there was one among them who avouched that he saw it, when it came on high over the sea. Wherefore awaking their fellows to behold the spectacle, first they questioned among themselves (as the fashion of wonderers is) and then with mutual words animating each other to go see what it was, all began to conjecture, as in deed it was, to wit, that it was some heavenly thing. When they came unto it, they went into the House itself, and assoon as they had passed the threshold, a great dread came suddenly upon them; but presently being replenished with a certain unwonted sweetness, they spent the night devoutly in prayer, diligently viewing whatsoever was under the roof. Whereupon at the break of day certain of them went to Recanati (almost four miles from that place) to relate unto their masters, what they had seen. At first for their simplicity, they did not only contemn them, but also the matter itself, supposing that they related a vain thing, and peradventure a fancy represented unto them in their dream. But the shepherds affirming with all asseveration, that their own eyes might witness it unto them, if they would, their masters were more willing to believe them, them indeed they durst. And at last, lest it should either be thought, that they had given to rash credit to so unwonted a miracle, at the testimony of those simple men, or else lest by their negligence they might let that pass as vain, which might be true indeed, they went with them to see what it was. When they came to the place of the wood foretold, and the shepherds news proved true; none almost believed their own eyes, nor themselves: for in very deed, that House was never seen there before, nor newly built, as the antiquity thereof did manifestly show.  
Doubtless therefore it was brought from some other place by miracle, or sent from heaven itself. And with great wonder discoursing thus among themselves, they went nearer unto it, to behold the roof, not so much to be noted for fashion, as for antiquity: and greatly admired that such ancient building could stand without a foundation or any support at all. Forthwith putting away these cogitations, they went into the House itself, and suppliantly reverenced the B. Virgin, embracing the sweet child jesus in her arms. Neither did their piety want her reward: For upon the sudden, such sacred dread and joy was powered into them, that they confessed, they never felt the power of God more present in all their lives. Whereupon they ran back again to the City with all speed, rejoicing much among themselves, that Almighty God had vouchsafed to bestow so rare a gift on them, and on their Country: which was exceeding joy to the devout matron Laureta, in whose wood the sacred House had seated itself. 
The concourse of the people of Recanati.  And assoon as the news of so great a miracle came into the City, a wonderful concourse of people, of all sorts and degrees repaired unto the wood, as if a set sign had been given, coveting to satisfy the desire they had to see that admirable spectacle; in so much, that boys, girls, old & feeble folks could not stay themselves at home. The diseased also forsaking their beds, crept along; their very desire to see it (as sometimes it happeneth) yielding them strength therefore. And many running with a certain vehemency of fervour, strived to come thither before other, that they might be the first, that might behold that heavenly spectacle with their eyes. The nearer their hope was of approaching unto it, the more the multitude of the concurrents, & their desire to see it increased: so that, when the most Sacred House (which all this while was intercepted and hidden from them with the boughs of the trees) suddenly appeared unto them by entering into the sheerer wood, speedily all at once began to hasten unto it, and incontinent so great concourse was made on every side from all parts of the wood, covering to go, to touch and to kiss the sacred walls, that pressing near together they were like to fall over each other. And assoon as they came into the majestical seat itself, and devoutly saluted the B. Virgin, they were all replenished with such devotion, and powered out so many tears, that they purposed the amendment of their lives and could not be drawn from it. This mean while great noise was heard on every side, specially of the diseased and feeble, with confused speeches invocating their Patroness, their mother, the Queen of heaven, the mother of God, and with earnest prayer entreating for recovery and health. Neither were their plaints unaccepted, nor their petitions unheard. For by and by the power and virtue of God, appeared in curing of diseases, & in restoring of strength to many: whereupon the noise of the thanksgivers was doubled, that they might give Almighty God and his B. mother hearty thanks, and publish the heavenly virtue and help which they had now obtained. Wherefore assoon as this light of God's liberality showed itself to the people of Recanati, with striving emulation they began to reverence and adorn the Cell of the B. Virgin; but among all those public honours, the private endeavours of Laureta did excel, 
The Lady to whom the wood of Laureta did belong called the Sacred House by the same name.  whereby ever after it was called the House of Loreto. In this mean while, fame (than the which in like cases nothing is swifter) flew to the bordering people to bring news that the House of Loreto was glorified with miracles; wherewith out of hand, as every one's devotion or necessity did urge, all began to run unto the wood, to bring or convey them that were molested with any infirmity, to entreat help and to make vows. That they obtained their vows, their often thansgiving to Almighty God and his B. mother, and their votive tablets hanging openly about the walls did evidently show: for the mother of God was a clement and a potent Patroness in the sight of the divine majesty, both to show them the way which sought it, and also to entreat help and health for them that request it. And the solitariness of the place did greatly recommend the devotion of the assembled people. For then there was no house, no lodging, nor any little receptacle in the wood, but trees, which being void of leaves in the winter time, gave but cold hospitality to the Pilgrims. Yet there might you have seen many, both wealthy & delicate in their own houses, lodge abroad in the air, annoyed with rain, cold, snow, and tempests. Likewise all the people, dividing themselves into companies about the most sacred House, and sitting down on the grass among the trees, did there eat their meat, and afterward lodged on the bare ground, not to sleep and take their rest, but to sing psalms & hymns, without any fear at all of wild beasts or thieves, such inflamed piety might easily overcome all discommodities and dangers.   

The Sacred House is transported out of this wood into the hill of the two Brothers. CHAP. VII.  
BUT the everlasting enemy of mankind being nothing g●ad at this honour of the heavenly Queen & so great good of Christians, 
Praep. Ter●m. Hie●o. Angel.  with all his might decreed to disturb the exceeding joy and religion of the Picentians. Therefore lest the sacred place should increase the devotion of the people, before it was of so great reverence as in likelihood it would be, he purposed to make war against; the Pilgrims and strangers as they came unto it. The Chapel of our B. Lady was in a solitary place, near to the sea, and compassed about with a thick wood and high trees: and though there was no way unto it, but among these thick bushes and trees; yet many went without weapons, putting great confidence in the P. Virgin, the defendresse of the place. Whereupon certain notorious wretches of desperate boldness, not more alured with a fit opportunity of preying, then stirred with infernal furies, as it may be supposed, beset the ways that went unto the sacred House, and began to lie in ambush in places compassed about with thick bushes. From whence rushing forth, they took the Pilgrims as they went unto it, set on them unawares, rob them of their money and clothes, yea and of their lives also, if so be they resisted by force. Whereby in short space all that Wood being infested and notoriously reproached with robberies and murders, was reduced to a wilderness, by reason that the Pilgrims were frighted thence: and the reverence and devotion of this holy place waxing daily less and less, the most sacred House itself departed thence. For Almighty God thinking it an indignity, that the malice of the infernal enemy should turn to the destruction of mankind, the refuge which he had provided for their salvation; he chose a safer and a fit seat for Pilgrims, for his own, and his B. mother's little House. There was a little hill not very steepy almost a mile from that place, nearer to Recanati, and not far from the high Way, whither the sacred House was carried on high by Angels and placed in the top thereof, about eight months after it was seated in the wood. Two brothers of Recanati possessed the said hill in common with mutual agreement, and taking exceeding joy in the heavenly gift, began to reverence the most sacred House, with brotherlike endeavours. And as the mutation of the place, and the fame of the new miracle increased admiration, so likewise the devotion of the inhabitants and strangers. For assoon as it was spread abroad, that the House of Loreto had changed her place, & forsaken the wood, which was infested with robberies, & seated itself on a hill free from thieves & convenient for pilgrims; forthwith it enkindled a desire in adjoining people to revisit it. Therefore either to recompense the benefit of so great a good omitted for fear of thieves, or else coverting to see with their eyes the new migration, which they heard reported with their ears, many flocked unto it from all parts with great willingness: whereof divers had worshipped the same house lately in the wood, which now they reverence out of the same in the top of the hill, to their great admiration and wonder. For which cause, with vows and fervent prayer, the inhabitants did contendingly reverence this most holy Chapel, venerable as well for ancient wonders as lastly for the miracle of her changed seat. And every one for his own particular, gave Almighty God and his B. mother great thanks, that they had not removed the most religious seat, defiled with robberies and murders, to some other p●ace; but had seated it on a safe hill, convenient for the devotion of Pilgrims. Whereby the multitude of Pilgrims daily increasing, increased also the celebrity of the Sacred House, that the walls began to be covered with votive tables, with Images of wax, with precious hangings, and the Altar to be heaped with gifts and money. But the wealth of the sacred Chapel thus increasing, lessened their devotion, whose fervour should chief have increased. So that avarice now again, made the abode thereof shorter in the hill, than it had done in the wood.   

It departeth from the hill of the two Brothers, by reason of their avarice and discord. CHAP. VIII.  
THE said hill (as we showed before) was common to two Brothers, 
Praepos. Terem. Hieron. Angel.  who at first reverenced the most sacred House godly & devoutly, as was most meet they should: happy they, if they had used the heavenly gift rather for devotion, then abused it for gain. For when they saw that the most religious House was adorned with richer donaries, covertousnes overcame their greedy minds, & wholly extinguished piety and devotion. Therefore both supposing that the inheritance of the said hill came wholly to himself; first they began to covet the sacred gold & silver, but afterward, avarice egging them on, to disagree between themselves, with more than brotherly hatred. Finally while either strived to get all the commodity for himself, and reasoned the matter with altercation, from wrath they fell to arms. And there letted not much, that two brothers had not defiled themselves, and the most majestical Cell of the mother of God with brother's blood (for nothing is so holy that avarice defileth not:) had not God prevented so great wickedness, by taking away the occasion thereof. Wherefore being no less offended with the discord of these brothers, then with the robberies which were committed in the wood, he removed his mother's House unto the next hill towards the sea, being about an arrows flight from that place, and seated it in the very high way that goeth to the haven of Recanati, being also about two miles from the sea; so the cause both of discord and theft was taken away, & at last a steadfast and firm remaining seat was given to the most sacred House, which stood but a few months in the hill of the two brothers. For it is well known that within less than a year, after it came into Italy, it was seated on that hill where at this present it remaineth: so that either through the default of the inhabitants, or rather by the providence of Almighty God, within the compass of a year, she changed her seat three times in the territory of Recanati; and within five years after her departure out of Galiley, honoured sour places with her residence: yet by change of place she changed not religion, but more and more increased the same.   

The impressions of the places, where the Sacred House did stand. CHAP. IX.  
AND at this day there are extant in all these places, 
Hiero. Angel.  undoubted proofs hereof. For Nicolas Frangipane (as we showed before) built a magnificent Church about the new House, which he caused to be made to resemble that of Nazareth, & set it in the very impressions where the other stood; calling it the Church of our B. Lady of Tersact, either for an ancient memory of the most sacred Chapel, or else for that it was honoured with new miracles. And in this Church not far from the door of the resembled house of Nazareth, there is yet a worthy monument of Nicolas Frangipane, who founding that Church, in token o● his great devotion, towards the native House of the B. Virgin, chose for himself and his posterity, a tomb near to the impressions thereof: where also remaineth a very ancient marble table, to witness so great a miracle to posterity, wherein is engraven: THIS IS THE PLACE, WHERE THE MOST SACRED HOUSE OF THE B. VIRGIN OF LORETO SOMETIME WAS, NOW REVERENCED IN THE TERRITORIES OF RECANATI. Which many of good credit have reported, assuring me, that themselves have seen them. And in that place where it rested, when it came first into Picene, as long as the wood stood (and it stood until the 75. year of this age) there appeared no obscure signs of the removal of the sacred House, and of the miracle. For that parcel of ground on which it was seated, was always beautified with green herbs and flowers, when all the rest thereabout being overgrown with thick bushes and thorns, were savage and rude. Neither is the thing doubtful. For Hierome Angelita doth so deliver it in his story of the B. Virgin of Loreto, which he dedicated to Pope Clement the 7. at that very time, when this was a miracle to the beholder's holder's. And with this part of ground were seen the impressions of the sacred walls, imprinted in the earth, representing holiness, and as it were some divine thing. In so much that I myself received the same from Raphael Riera, a man of sincere credit and religion, who was wont to tell that he often beheld the impressions of the sacred House, and the beauty of this parcel of ground with great delight. But the wood being lately cut down, & the land made arable, this exceeding pleasantness thereof was so spoiled by the rude husbandmen with digging and sowing, that it utterly decayed. Yet to preserve the religion of the place, in those very impressions, the said Riera raised little low walls, both for a monument to posterity, that the sacred House of Loreto had in time passed been there, as also for a defence against the abuses of cattle and simple men. I myself see and viewed this place, when I committed these things to writing, and observed that the parcel of ground enclosed within those walls was every way answerable, both in length and breadth, to the House of Loreto. But now it is altogether like to the other ground thereabout; having lost the exceeding pleasantness which it had, before the rude husbandmen violated the sanctity of the place: yet truly it hath so lost the sweetness, that it retaineth the religion. For at this day it is visited of many for devotion sake, & would also be visited of more, but that the place is unknown to the common people. In time past when it was more known, either by reason of the exceeding pleasantness or better commodity of the ways, it was wont to be so reverenced of the Pilgrims, that none almost would believe, that he had visited the Cell of the B. Virgin of Loreto, that had not also reverenced those first impressions of the same Cell. Now the place is altogether unfrequented & without passage, neither hath it a known way unto it, so that if any will visit it, he hath need of a skilful guide. It is distant from the town of Loreto almost a mile, and as much also from the sea, not so much right on, as by many turnings. It is situated between the mont Vrsus and the River Musion, with almost the like distance, as between Loreto and the sea, and is commonly called Banderola, peradventure of a banner, which in time past was set up in a certain tree, to demonstrate to Pilgrims as they came, and to seafaring men sailing along that coast, that the most sacred Chapel was seated in that wood: Certes the Italians do call a little Banner, Banderola. By the sacred part of ground, whereof I have spoken, there is a great well, which continually yieldeth water, & easy to be drawn of: you may believe that this unusual and large well was made for the use of some great multitude, to wit, for people which came to visit the sacred House. But in the hill of the two Brothers, the signs are more obscure; for that hill was leveled to fill up the valleys to make them commodious for building, and also built upon when the town of Loreto was built, yet the place, or rather a sign thereof remaineth. For without the walls of some private houses, there is a certain rude and a round piece of a hill, like to a boundmarke, which is graced with a little house, being now the only sign of the seat that our B. Lady made choice of there, and forsook again. The house whereunto this boundmarke is joined, being situated not far from the gate of the Bishop's Palace on the right hand as we enter, is as it were the navel or midst of the town of Loreto. And if that part of the Bishop's Palace which is already begun be continued, it will occupy almost all that space, but then also (as I suppose) some monument of this place and miracle shall be left, that the sign of so memorable a thing may not perish.   

The special place, and the admirable situation of the house of Loreto. CHAP. X.  
IN the afore named places the B. Virgin mother of God, chose herself a seat rather to rest in than to dwell, that is to say, of no long continuance, because she determined ever from the beginning to make a settled seat in this place, where at this present she remaineth, and (unless some offence of the inhabitants or borderers do hinder it) we hope an everlasting. Neither is it lawful to doubt, but as the mother of God from the beginning foresaw, so could she have avoided the indiligence of the Dalmatians in Sclavonie, the cruelty of the thieves in the wood, and the detestable hatred of the two brothers in the hill, that was common unto them. For well knowing all this, even from the time that her sacred house departed first from Nazareth, and forsook her native soil, she herself made special choice of this place, to settle her a firm and a perpetual seat. And in very deed to give credit to so unusual a miracle, 
The cause of her manifold remoovall.  and never heard of before, the repetition of the same miracle was needful, that the often mutation of the place in so few years might make a thing of itself incredible, credible enough. For how could mortal men doubt, whether that House was brought from Galiley; when themselves had heard that in their own age, the same was transported out of Sclavonie into Picene; and had seen, that in Picene itself within less than the compass of a mile it changed seat and place, thrice before the year was expired. This third and last mutation fell in the year of our Redemption 1295. 
Prep. Teren. Hier. Angel.  which ensued after the coming of the sacred House into Italy. And it is a thing worth the labour to know the admirable situation thereof, which doth easily show that the most sacred Cell was not so placed by human, but by divine providence and power. For it is situated, if ever any were, just to the four regions of heaven and earth, according to the rule of the Mathematicians: And not according to that rule only, but also by an ancient institution of the holy Fathers, who commanded that the Altars of sacred houses, should stand towards the rising of the Sun. Therefore the fore-wall of this most sacred House (beautified with the window whereat the Angel is said to have entered) doth stand towards the Sun set; and the hinder (adorned with the Altar standing before the Image of our B. Lady) looketh so directly towards the Sun rising, that in either Equinoctial, for the space often days, 
In either Equinoctial the sun doth seem to reverence and salute our B. Lady.  the Sun when he riseth, shineth on the hinder part, and when he setteth on the former part thereof: whereby a little before he setteth, the Sun shining in at the window, which I have mentioned, cometh to the B. Virgin, as it were to salute her at night, sith he cannot salute her in the morning, being excluded by the interposed wall of the sacred House itself: which also as they report was observed to be so, since the Sacred House, was environed within a Church, until the forefront of the bishops Palace, being opposite unto the Church, was placed on the west side. Yet nevertheless I doubt not, but when the gate thereof shall stand open (which can not be until the work be finished) it will easile yield again, the self same view of the sun by the window of the sacred Chapel, that it may salute the B. Mother of God from the entrance of the Church itself. The left wall of this most sacred Chapel doth stand towards the north, and the right towards the south: and therefore when the magnificent porch of the Bishop's palace standing against the south (for the B. Virgin by the situation of her Cell, prescribed as it were to the Architect the situation of the Bishop's palace) doth daily receive the sun directly into it, infallibly it betokeneth high noon. And that this so admirable a situation of the most sacred Chapel, happened not by chance, but was so appointed by the providence of God; proof hereof be the impressions in the wood itself, yet extant (as I myself have diligently observed) which do sufficiently show that the B. Virgin herself did delight in such a situation. The same peradventure happened in the hill of the two brothers, but it can not be judged by reason that the impressions are obscure. And perchance also the same happened by course in the Dalmatian seat; yet we have no certainty thereof, but that the thing itself is consonant unto the others. And two chief mysteries, to wit, the nativity of the B. Virgin, and the Conception of the Eternal Word, have made this sacred house most illustrious; whereof that happeneth in the Autumn, and this in the Equinoctial spring. Wherefore as the sun hath just cause to visit her in either Equinoctial; so likewise (being as it were mindful of these sacred mysteries) with a certain kind of ambition, a little after his rising, and before his setting, he seemeth to come to the B. Virgin mother of God, to salute her.   

By manifestation of the Dalmatians, the Picentians know that the native house of the B. Virgin is brought unto them. CHAP. XI.  
BUT to return to the order of the mateer whence the wonder of the rare situation made us to digress; at first the new migration of this sacred house, seemed wonderful to the people of Recanati, but afterward grateful and pleasant. And as the same & admiration of the place was more increased by the miraculous multiplication of the triple transmigration of the holy Cell; so likewise did Alm. God, dilate the honour of his B. Mother, both among the inhabitants and strangers. For the remoovall of this most sacred house from Nazareth and Dalmatia, being spoken of, 
Praep. Terem. Hier. Angel.  and credibly reported much about this time, struck the Picentians into great fear, lest it might also in time forsake them, specially being already dishonoured in two places of their Country. News of the House of Loreto, and of these her wonders, being lately reported in Sclavonie, by certain merchants, enkindled the Dalmatians (beginning to suspect something) to visit the House that was so glorified with miracles, and to emulate the piety of the Picentians. Whereupon certain of them beholding the Chapel of Loreto (for the remembrance of her departure from Sclavonie was yet fresh) acknowledged it not unwillingly to be the same, and performed their dutiful veneration with flowing tears: and presently renewing their former grief, and sighing with the desire they had to see their lost treasure, thus they began to bewail their late damage. This House which now is honoured in Picene, with so great concourse of mortal men, was lately reverenced in Dalmatia, with almost the like endeavours of our people. This native House of the B. Virgin was first conveyed by heavenly power from Galiley into Sclavonie, that afterward the Picentians might have it brought unto them out of Dalmatia itself. This wonder was showed to the Dalmatians by a heavenly sign, and made manifest by certain men sent into Galiley. Therefore let them acknowledge, and reverence this heavenly gift, with great devotion, lest the same happen to them, which they hear hath chanced unto others: and what manner of gift it is, they may rather know by wanting, then by enjoying the same. Neither do we despair (if our deeds were answerable to our desires) but that this very House of the Blessed Virgin, would return into Sclavonie again, from whence it departed not many years agone. But because these and such like speeches of the slavonians were strange and wonderful to the Picentians (for as yet they had heard nothing of her transmigration from Nazareth and Dalmatia) many esteemed them vain & foolish. But in short time a new wonder from heaven declared them to be true indeed.   

By revelation of our B. Lady, an Hermit importuneth the Picentians to inquire of the matter. CHAP. XII.  
near to the wood and seat which the B. Virgin mother of God did first make choice of in Picene, 
Praep. Terem. Hiero. Angel.  there is a little hill called the mount Vrsus, whither a holy man of great sanctity had retired himself not many years agone, coveting to be near the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin; his name is not delivered, but my mind inclineth to think that it was Paul de silva of whom afterward we are to speak: who being wholly devoted to our B. Lady, came daily to visit her seat of Loreto, where he spent many hours in devout prayer. And having a great desire to be present at the miracles which were done by the help of the B. Virgin, or else were related by strangers, as already done; he gave diligent ear to those wonderful things, which the Dalmatians had published with great asseveration: now and then also he heard the Dalmatians themselves lament their mischance, and bewail the loss of their nation, that the native House of the B. Virgin was taken from them, and they deprived of the protection of so great a Patroness. The godly Hermit rejoicing at the other praises of our B. Lady, was amazed when he understood that it was her native House. And truly to him the thing seemed almost incredible, but yet worthy to be inquired of with all diligence; because when so worthy a thing was found out and known, it would add great name and honour to the House of Loreto, to the which he was exceedingly devoted. And having a vehement affection to know the truth, and to increase devotion to our B. Lady, he desired to understand from heaven whether that were true or false. Whereupon without delay; he punished his body with fasting, with haircloth, and stripes, gave himself to prayer, and omitted nothing whereby he thought he might please and pacify Almighty God: specially he prayed and besought the B. Virgin mother of God by some certain sign to manifest what Chapel it was, or from whence it came. Neither did the B. Virgin frustrate his inflamed piety and desire. 
The sacred House is known by revelation of our B. Lady.  For the second year after the coming of the sacred House into Italy, our B. Lady appearing unto him in his sleep, and bidding him be of good comfort, told him that in Italy she had chosen a seat for the little House, wherein herself did live on earth; which because it was negligently reverenced in Galiley, was now by the ordination of Almighty God transported thence by handworke of Angels, that it might be brought into Dalmatia, & so into Picene itself. There she herself was borne, and there also did she conceive the divine issue: for which cause that House was, & ever shall be dear to God and herself. She likewise declared all that she had related to Alexander Bishop of Tersact in his sleep, as before hath been said; concluding at last that by the special grace & favour of the Almighty, that heavenly gift was given to the Picentians and Italians, as a solace to their evils, and as a pledge of pardon and peace in time of so many storms and calamities of their Country; and then as a most certain refuge and defence unto all nations in the perils and dangers of this mortal life: commanding him to go and to declare these things to the Citizens of Recanati, and to the adjoining people: wherewith awaking out of his sleep, with exceeding joy of mind for the heavenly warning, he strait fulfilled the commandment of the B. Virgin. And first going to Recanati, he declared his vision to the people of the City, and related unto them the rest, protesting that our B. Lady herself was the author of his speeches. Leaving the people of Recanati in a wonderful maze, he made great haste unto other places, to declare the same to them, with like ●eruour of mind. But at first the Pi●emi●ns esteemed it a vain fancy, and many reputed the reporter for a teller of dreams: Yet afterward because about that time, there was a certain flying fame, that this very Chapel was given and taken again from the Dalmatians by the handworke of God; and also now the Dalmatians themselves acknowledged it at Loreto, they remembered themselves, and thought that so weighty a matter was in no wise to be neglected. And likewise calling to mind the late wonder, how the most sacred House had changed her seat three times in one year, in their own territory of Picene, they were moved therewith to send messengers to and fro, to inquire thereof. And at last the Citizens of Recanati propounding the matter, by common advice of the Picentians, it was decreed, that with general contribution of money, certain men should be sent into Sclavonie, & from thence to Galiley, to seek out the truth of the matter, by the testimony of their own eyes, and other certain and manifest tokens.   

Sixteen men sent into Dalmatia & Galiley, confirm the truth of the miracle. CHAP. XIII.  
SIXTEEN men honourable for faith, religion, 
Praep. Terem. Hiero. Angel.  and authority, were chosen out of all Picene; to whom commandment was given, that first enquiring in Dalmatia, & then in Galiley, they should diligently seek out the whole matter, and should bring them word of all that they found concerning the native House of the B. Virgin, which was said to be in those parts: who forthwith passing the Adriatic sea, and arriving at Tersact, opened to the inhabitants the cause of their coming; who yet smarted with the grief of their late wound, and lamented to remember, that such a treasure was taken from them, witnessing the great desire they had unto it, with many plaints and tears. At the entreaty of these Ambassadors they showed them the floor, and the house, which they had built very proportionable and like to that of Loreto for a monument thereof. And there again renewing their lamentation, they grieved to think, that those were the only signs which the Sclavouians had of the heavenly gift, that the glory thereof was granted to others; and the bare fame left unto them. Whereupon the Picentian Ambassadors applying a measure of the House of Loreto, (which for that purpose they had brought with them) to every side of the vacant space, found it in all respects agreeable to the House of Loreto. Then demanding of them how long since the most sacred Chapel departed from them, they assuredly know, that at the very same time that it was taken from the slavonians, it was given to the Picentians. And having well sought out the matter, and each recounted the chiefest miracles wrought in either place, they parted with abundance of tears, the one sorrowful with desire, the others rejoicing with gladness. So out of hand the Ambassadors returning again to sea, and passing the Superum and the Siculum seas, and speedily sailing along by Corcyra, by Crect, and Cypress, they arrived at Palestine with good success. And understanding that the ways were nothing secure, by reason that the Turkish armies wandered up and down all Syria; they hired a Convoy which conducted them safe into Galiley, and from thence back again to their ship. When they had worshipped the most glorious Sepulchre of CHRIST our Lord at Jerusalem, they held on their journey to Galiley, and coming to Nazareth, inquired of the native House of our B. Lady, and diligently demanded of it of the Christians, who (such as they were) dwelled in the midst of that depraved nation, of whom being told, what they had received from their forefathers, and what they had seen with their own eyes, whilst the Christian religion remained in Syria, they brought them to the desired place, that they might behold the floor, with the foundations of a house raised up from thence, yet in the ground to be seen: which measuring with very diligent care, they found that in every respect, all things did agree with the impressions in Sclavonie, with the floor & the walls of the House of Loreto. And having dispatched their business in both places, according to their own desire, they shipped themselves with great gladness, and with happy passage were recarried safe to Ancona, whence they set forth. Whereupon making haste home, and relating all that they had found to the Magistrates & Governors of the Cities, from whence they were sent, they imparted unto them what great joy they conceived therewith. And the Citizens of Recanati being very glad of the good success of this Embassage, whereof they were the Authors, and desiring to have a monument there to remain, registered the whole matter in public record, 
Hier. Angel. Praep. Terem.  adding thereunto the names and testimonies of the 16. Ambassadors, that the matter might be well witnessed to all posterity. Certain copies whereof being reserved in the houses of private men are yet to be seen. And thus much was known and found by these Ambassadors, the year of our Redemption one thousand, two hundred, ninety and six.   

The Picentians choose the B. Virgin of Loreto for their Patroness. CHAP. XIIII.  
FORTHWITH news, as it is wont, was speedily carried to the Cities and towns adjoining, that 16. Ambassadors returning from Sclavonie and Galiley, had found by manifest signs that the House of Loreto, was the very same where the mother of God was borne and saluted by the Angel, and that by heavenly power, it was first transported out of Galiley into Sclavonie, and from thence into Picene itself. And much about this time the same fame diwlgating the third remoovall thereof in the terrtories of Recanati, many greatly desired (conceiving as it were more fervour of mind by this new report) to see and honour, in this new seat, the heavenly pledge which was brought unto them from the Fast itself. For all did verily think and say, that the mother of God had special care to protect the Picentians; in regard whereof, they thought it most meet to commit themselves to her protection and defence. Whereupon in continent the inhabitants of all the towns of Picene, 
The concourse of the Picentians.  filling all the passages and ways that went to the House of Loreto, began to set forward in this journey: neither did the healthful and strong alone make haste to do it, but also the diseased and feeble, neglecting the physicians command, crept along, if they were able, if not, they desired to be carried in what sort soever. And the people of the wealthiest Cities & towns of Picene, went in surplices, dividing themselves into several companies, adorned with ensigns and colours, like bands of men under their Ancients, who with great emulation, singing solemn praise to God and his B. mother, filled all round about, with the pleasant sound of their timbrels, fruits, and instruments. After whom followed boys, and girls, among the women, as it were in a company among themselves. When they came to the Chapel of the B. Virgin (because the straightness of the place would not admit so great a multitude of people) at the very sight of the most sacred House, bowing down their knees, and giving most hearty thanks to God and his B. mother, they most devoutly entreated for pardon and peace among so many evils, as they already suffered, or else were likely to do: & earnestly besought the B. mother of God, because she had offered herself a voluntary Patroness unto Picene, afflicted with divers miseries and calamities, that she would also receive the Picentians themselves, into her protection and patronage, and willingly & favourably would always vouchsafe to defend their people. The name of her protection and patronage was not in vain: For since that time the B. Virgin hath showed herself a most assured patroness to the Picentians, and they in like manner themselves always devout clients of our B. Lady, not only in adorning, but also in defending her House of Loreto.   

The sacred House is honoured with heavenly flames, and reverenced daily more and more. CHAP. XV.  
TO the daily miracles in restoring health to human bodies, now & then were added heavenly signs, not obscurely signifying that the B. Virgin did favour and protect the Picentians. For many times upon the sudden a flame of fire was seen to spread itself abroad and to come from heaven in the night time, 
Hiero. Angel.  which at first glittering, as though it were dispersed in sundry places, but afterward making as it were one stream, and going towards the Cell of the mother of God, filled all round about with heavenly lights. And the roof itself was often seen to flame with great brightness, with such admiration of the beholders, that you would think you had seen an army of Angels, warding the House of the heavenly Queen. Whereupon the Bishop of Recanati, in whose Diocese it happened, thinking it an honour of religion, according to his office, advertised Boniface the 8. thereof, of whom obtaining the government of the Chapel of Loreto, and thinking it most convenient to make room for the Pilgrims out of hand, he cosecrated all the ground that was about the sacred House, to the B. Virgin by gift of the Citizens of Recanati, wherewith the celebrity of the place was also increased. For first they began to build cabbines, and cottages to entertain the Pilgrims (who before that time thronging together in the open air, lodged in the high way, 
The town of Loreto is built. ) but afterward larger houses. And because the unevennes of either hill (specially a valley lying between) was no fit seat for building, the hill of the two brothers being higher than was convenient for their enterprised work, was leveled; the valley filled up, and the unevennes plained; that there might be level ground enough to build upon by the high way side. Whereby in short time, what with rude cottages and houses, there was erected no small village, extended on the top of either hill, and called Loreto, that both the village and the House, might take their names from that LAURETA, who was so singularly devoted to our B. Lady. This commodity of lodging joined to the Religion of the place, marvelously increased the multitude of guests and strangers, 
S. Anto. part. 3. Plat. in Boni. 8. joan. Villain. lib. 1  which shortly after was not a little forwarded by a thing of new celebrity. For about that time Bonifacius the 8. (whose Popedom the coming of the sacred House into Italy hath made very famous) being much moved with the vehement earthquakes and afflictions of Italy, partly past, and partly near at hand; and bending all his care how he might turn from them the heavenly wrath, with happy resolution either instituted the secular year (called the jubiley) or else renewed it, granting to all that rightly visited the Territories of the Apostles S. Peter and S. Paul, release of all the pain due to their offences. Whereupon the year of our Redemption 1300. being the first that was memorable for the celebrity of the jubiley, the fame of this new Pontifical Indulgence coming into all the countries of the Christian world, caused an innumerable multitude of all nations, and specially of the West, to travel to Rome itself. For every way there was such confluence of all nations to the City, that albeit it be very large, yet could it scarce contain so great a multitude of strangers, for in a manner there passed no day, that the City gave not hospitality to two hundred thousand Pilgrims, besides an innumerable multitude, which was on the way. Whereof many (specially to whom Recanati was not much out of the way) being moved with the fame of these miracles, went to the house of Loreto, that every one might be witnesses and messengers to their own country people: of all which they received of so unusual & unknown a miracle, not by the report of others, but saw with the view of their own eyes.   

The walls adjoined to the sacred House for a support, give back: to the which notwithstanding large Cloisters are added. CHAP. XVI.  
MEAN while, the people of Recanati; 
Hier. Angel. Bap. Mant.  being moved with this great concourse of Pilgrims, determined to reverence and defend the most sacred Chapel with all care. For seeing that the walls were both weak and ancient, and had stood many years without a foundation, they were very solicitous and fearful, lest by little and little they might fail by injury of the weather, and also lest the worthiest memory of the B. Virgin in the whole world, might utterly decay and come to ruin. Therefore thinking it for the best, to defend on every side (as much as by human art & industry they might) the sacred House, seeming much decayed, they went about to lay foundations, as well as they could, and to compass it about with a brick wall. But it is reported by no feigned writers, that the new foundations would by no means adhere to the sacred walls; that you may think the fortunate House of our B. Lady standing by divine power, 
Trad. Laur. Bapt. Mant.  contemned all human help and industry. Moreover in process of time, the new walls adjoined to the old for a support, by little and little gave back so far, that between the two walls, as often as it was needful, a boy might go with a burning torch, thereby to make the credit of the disjoined walls manifest to them that desired to see it. Neither is it long since it was well remembered: for there lived divers honest and godly men, not many years agone, who told Raphael Riera, a man of approved virtue and testimony (of whom we made mention before, and afterward are to make, and of whom I also learned it) that they had seen a boy pass with ease between the said walls. To whom also Raynerius Nerusius, an excellent Architect, and overseer of the work of Loreto, for the familiarity that was between them, reported that by commandment of Pope Clement the 7. the pulling down of these brick walls being committed to his charge, when in steed thereof the Pope went about to set up the marble Crust which at this day all behold with great admiration, then to his own wonder he found, that against all reason of Architecture, these walls were removed from the sacred Chamber; neither were they ruined so much with antiquity, as by a certain hidden judgement of Alm. God; that it might sufficiently appear that the B. Virgin mother of God would exclude all human industry, 
Trad. Laur.  from the supporting of her House, to th'end the divine power might be more notable, if that a most ancient house could stand so many ages without a foundation or any human help. 
The Image of Christ Crucified doth return into the most Sacred House of itself.  The report also goeth, that the most ancient Image of Christ Crucified, brought thither with the sacred house, about that time became very famous for the iteration of a strange miracle; for when the Bishop and Citizens of Recanati had removed it thence, and placed it in a Chapel adorned of purpose for it, that it might be reverenced with great honour, the holy Crucifix removing thence of itself, and returning into the most sacred House, it seated itself in his own place again: who often reassaying the same without effecting their purpose, at last they desisted, and turned their care an other way. For seeing that neither the houses nor cottages were able to receive so great a multitude of strangers, nor in the sacred House any vacant place for votive Images and Donaries; and also lest the Pilgrims (whereof many devoid of house-room and lodging as it were in Stations, should be enforced to remain all night in the open air:) or lest their votive gifts exposed to the injury of the weather, should perish, near to the sacred Chapel, they built very large Cloisters, to receive strangers and their Donaries. And also erected an Altar without the sacred Chapel, that the Pilgrims who were excluded by the straightness of the place, might there behold the Priest exercising his holy function. To these Cloisters, as it is reported, were adjoined houses, where the Priests, the keepers, and other officers of the most sacred Cell should dwell. And in the walls of the said Cloisters, 
Hiero. Angel.  the chiefest mysteries of the sacred House, and her manifold remoovall, were exposed in colours, by an excellent painter of those days.   

Heavenly lights make the day of the B. Virgin's Nativity more solemnized in her native House. CHAP. XVII.  
IN the mean season a heavenvly vision wonderful to be spoken or seen, 
Bapt. Niant. Hier. Aug.  signified to mortal men, at what time the B. Virgin desired to have her native House reverenced with greatest devotion. There was a certain solitary man called Paul, venerable for the gift of abstinence and sanctimony, 
Paul de Silva.  surnamed A Silva, that is to say, Of the wood, where he dwelled, from the first coming of the sacred House into Italy: which assoon as it had removed out of the wood, this holy man thinking it also his best to departed thence; built a cottage in a convenient place of the next wood, from whence he might both easily behold and go to the most sacred House: for of an ancient custom he daily went unto it, to adore God and his B. mother in the place where his feet had stood: Whereupon Paul giving himself to prayer, and to the meditation of heavenly things, in the sight of the most sacred Chapel (as his custom was) as if it were in the fight of our B. Lady herself, he often observed that a heavenly flame spreading abroad far & wide, 
Heavenly fire doth rest over the sacred House.  in manner of a great blazing star, rested over the Cell of the B. Virgin. And observing the thing, & the time very diligently, he found that on the 6. of the Ideses of September, that is to say, on the very day of the B. Virgin's birth, yearly about the fourth Vigil of the night, a great flame falling from heaven, and covering the roof of her sacred house with an uniform brightness, within a while ascended on high from whence it came. Which wonderful spectacle did not only replenish him with great joy, but also amazed him. And as he was a man of true simplicity, he supposed that the B. Virgin herself came from heaven into her native House, in likeness of a flame to celebrate her birth. Whereupon having a desire to behold so great a wonder near at hand, he began to expect the opportunity of the time, them the which nothing seemed longer unto him. At length when the year came about, & that heavenly flame showed itself again, he speedily ran unto it, to behold with his eyes (as he believed) and with all devotion to salute the Queen of heaven environed with blisle. But the nearer his hope was of approaching unto it, the more the thing and the flame at first diminished, and at last vanished away, and withdrew itself quite out of sight; leaving the credulous beholder frustrate of his expectation; which inflamed his godly heart with a more ardent affection and desire, as if he had received all that heavenly fire into himself, though he was altogether ignorant, what it might portend. And having thus spent ten whole years, year by year always the self same day, this heavenly flame hanging over the sacred House, deceiving the hope of the beholder, more & more inflamed his godly desire. But at length obtaining it of Almighty God by prayer, he had his wish. For in his quiet rest in the night time, he learned by a heavenly vision, that the native House of the B. Virgin, was honoured with an anniversary flame, the very day of her nativity, because it was to her liking to have that day to be kept and reverenced there with great solemnity. Wherefore Paul, who until this day had concealed this admirable spectacle in great silence, now either upon devotion, or else (as it may be supposed) compelled by the B. Virgin in his rest, went speedily to Recanati, and declared the whole matter to the Bishop, and to the Magistrates of the City; who through the opinion of his sanctity, was esteemed a grave author, even of so great a thing. And the Bishop being moved with the authority of the man, and with the congruency of the thing, and the time, believed that the heavenly vision was unfeigned, and presently published it abroad, that the people of Recanati might reverence the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, with special honour & devotion, the very day of her nativity. Whereby it came to pass, that afterward the adjoining, & also remote people either imitating the example of the people of Recanati, 
The day of our B. Lady's nativity is had in greatest reverence.  or else stirred with the fame of this miracle, chief in the month of September, assembled to Loreto with great zeal, to celebrate the day of our B. Lady's birth. And shortly after, the new bounty of the Popes, increased the devotion of the people, who chiefly at that time (as in due place we are to declare) granted most ample Indulgences to the House of Loreto. And these spectacles of the heavenly flames continued not only many years, but also many ages. For about 20. years agone, divers Citizens of Recanati, 
The wonder of the heavenly fires is renewed.  remarkable for virtue and gravity, reported to Raphael Riera, of whom I received it, that about the day of the B. Virgin's nativity, flames of fire were seen to fall from heaven in the night time, on the House of Loreto, all the whole City of Recanati looking on, and that themselves had seen the same many times, with exceeding joy of mind: adding withal that the day before, about night, when it began to be dark, the Citizens of Recanati having a great desire to see so grateful & so pleasant a sight, flocked commonly to the houses & walls, whence they might behold the House of Loreto, that they might delight their eyes and minds, with the admirable beauty of that heavenly flame: which every year was seen (as it was reported) until the time of Pope Paul the third: 
Riera in Annal. Laur. Ambro. Novi. Fast. l. 9  so that among all the wonders of Loreto there is scarce any more notable than this: which not only historiographers set down in writing, but also Novidius a famous Poet, recorded it in a notable poem, which he dedicated to Pope Paul the third, which we thought good to insert in this history. Wherefore thus he writeth, extolling the B. Virgin with worthy praise.  

To thee therefore are temples built; rare monuments of love,  
As many as be tongues on earth; or shining stars above.  
Yet none with that may be compared; in which the Virgin bright,  
The Queen of heaven to bless the world; at first was brought to light.  
With wonder great this worthy House; to good for Parthia land,  
Did mount into the lofty air; borne up by angels hand.  
When after stay in divers coasts; to Italy it came:  
And of the Picene people there; did lastly bear the name.  
And lest succeeding ages, should the truth hereof suspect,  
This night strange lights upon the roof; do glittering beams reflect.    

When the town of Loreto was governed by laws, the Citizens of Recanati environed the Sacred House with a Church. CHAP. XVIII.  
THE Citizens of Recanati being moved with these heavenly signs, 
Bap. Mant. Hiero. Angel.  determined to defend & adorn the House of Loreto with their uttermost endeavours. For when the town of Loreto was daily more and more frequented, by reason that many came thither from all places to dwell, either upon devotion to the B. Virgin, or else for desire of traffic, the Citizens of Recanati thinking it most convenient to order them by laws and statutes, 
The town of Loreto hath a Governor given unto it.  set them down laws and gave them a Magistrate for execution of justice. Having disposed matters in the town, they turned their care to things abroad. For certain necessitous and notorious wretches alured either with a fit occasion of robbing, or else with the sweetness of the prey itself, spoiled many straying and wandering Pilgrims, setting on them among bushes and woods adjoining to the high way; which seeming to concern the dignity and reputation of the Citizens of Recanati, they charged the governor of the City, that with a great company of soldiers, he should make the ways that went to the House of Loreto, secure from thieves. And as their counsel was godly, so had it good success. For the Governor himself most diligently searching the most hidden & lurking places of the wood, put the malefactors to death, & in short space purged all that country with great commendation: whose praise redounding to the City that made him Governor, from that time the City of Recanati was surnamed the Most Just. Shortly after a new calamity of those times, and the neglect of sacred things, 
S. Anto. Par. 3 Plat. in Clem. 5 The Pontifical sea is translated into France.  made the piety of the people of Recanati very famous. Whiles these things were done in Picene, Clement the 5. the third Pope after Bonifacius (for Benedict the 11. the successor of Bonifacius was Pope but a few months) the 5. year of that age translated the Apostolic Sea into France, to the great detriment of Italy, and almost of all the Christian common wealth; which doubtless the casual burning of the Lateran Church at that time, did portend to the City of Rome. For whiles Clement the Roman Bishop established a new Sea at Lions, the Lateran Church at Rome being the ancient seat of the Roman Bishops was set on fire, whether by malice or by chance, it is not known. Neither was the state of Italy much better under john the 22. who succeeding Clement, established the Pontifical Sea at Auinigon, nor under Benedict the XII. nor the rest of the Roman Bishops, who afterward through john's example sat at the same place. But the piety and devotion of the people of Recanati did flourish in building of a new Church to our B. Lady this most distressed time, both of all the Christian, and specially of their own common wealth. For of late, that is to say, the year of our Redemption 1322. the City of Recanati was thrown down by commandment of john the XXII. because it had revolted from the Pope, 
joan. Villar. lib. 9  and the Citizens compelled to provide them dwelling in an other place. But when they had made their agreement with the Pope, and built their town in that place, where at this present it standeth, their wealth was almost consumed, either with the overthrow of their City, or else with building this new town. Yet notwithstanding their devotion to our B. Lady their Patroness provoking them, they intended to build a Church about the Chapel of Loreto. For when the adjoined cloisters could neither contain the Pilgrims, their tablets, nor votive Images, by reason that they, and their donaries daily increased; the Bishop of Macerata, in whose Diocese Recanati was, with great approbation of the people of Recanati, went about to build a Church about the most sacred Chapel. For which purpose easily obtaining a great space of ground lying there about, he pulled down the Cloisters, and at the common charge built a new Church from the foundation, low indeed for the greatness, 
The sacred House is environed with a Church.  but wide and large enough: whereunto he adjoined larger houses for the Priests and ministers to dwell in, and for the hospitality of the better sort of Pilgrims; there also shortly after erecting an hospital for the relief of poor Pilgrims.   

When Benedict the XII. had adorned the new Church of Loreto with Indulgences, it was frequented with greater devotion. CHAP. XIX.  
WHEN the Church was finished, a greater ornament was done unto it. For the Citizens of Recanati making humble request to Benedict the 12. to grantremission of sins to all that rightly visited the Church of Loreto, 
Hero. Angel. The Indulgences of Benedict the XII.  easily obtained it. From which time so great fervour was enkindled in the hearts of the people of Recanati, that most of them would not be hindered almost by any business, to go every day three miles to visit the House of Loreto, for so far is it distant from their town. Moreover every morning assoon as the little children came out of their chambers, their parents and nurses taught thento turn themselves strait towards the native House of the B. Virgin, & devoutly to acknowledge and salute the mother of Loreto. But old and sick folks being hindered with age or sickness, not able to go to the Church of Loreto as the custom was, procured that the Image of our B. Lady of Loreto, expressed in colours, should be set up in the market place: about which, building a Chapel and an Altar, they obtained of Benedict aforesaid, a Breve engraven in golden letters, wherein was granted remission of sins, to them that prayed at the said Altar. Hierome Angelita one of the Magistrates of the City of Recanati (who flourished about 70. years agone) affirmeth that himself hath seen the same Breve, defaced with rottenness and antiquity. Moreover the Bishop of Macerata (who at that time was also Bishop of Recanati) thinking it good to deliver to Posterity the true relation of the House of Loreto, took order that a little book might be published, wherein was contained the admirable coming of the most sacred House into Italy, her triple transmigration in the territories of Recanati, and the chiefest wonders and miracles of our B. Lady of Loreto. And because the people of Recanati had a special desire to imprint in the hearts of tender years great devotion towards the B. Virgin of Loreto, they made a Decree that all schoolmasters in teaching the first principles of learning, should first enure children's ears and minds with such discourses, and by little & little should accustom tender age to the reading of that little book; which engraffed in them an exceeding devotion & piety towards the native House of the B. Virgin.   

The state of the House of Loreto, whiles the Roman Bishops sat at Auinigon. CHAP. XX.  
BUT what deep impression the religion of the House of Loreto made in the hearts of the Picentians at that time, this one thing may show, that being nothing almost furthered by the Roman Bishops, it flourished of itself. For about that time, as before hath been said, the Roman Sea passed into France. And because the Pope was absent from the City, and from Italy itself, the House of Loreto wanted many ornaments & furderances, which now it hath, and then also had had, but that this most sacred House ennobled with so many miracles and signs, was so far from the sight and intelligence of the Popes. But even in that state, she wanted not their Pontifical ornaments, albeit the Pontifical Sea was the only cause, that she was not so much adorned, as not neglected of the Roman Bishops, whiles they sat in France. For when Benedict the XII. had graced the House of Loreto with a gift of Indulgences, Clement the VI his Successor being absent from the City (for he sat at Auinigon) published and kept the celebrity of the secular jubiley, 
S. Anto. par. 3. Plat. Cle. ut.  reducing it to the 50. year: whereby the multitude of people which came from all places to Rome, was almost incredible, whereof many, to wit the Inhabitants of Flaminia, and Emilia, came out of their way to go to the House of Loreto most illustrious with fame. But shortly after a horrible plague beginning at Rome itself (the head City of the world) wasted all Italy almost with funerals, & continued three whole years, at which time every hundredth person scarce remaining alive, the Cities of Italy were reduced even to waste and desolation. Which infinite calamity (as I may term it) in very deed enforced many Italians to implore the help of our B. Lady of Loreto, that in so horrible a tempest and storm, they might be protected with the shadow of heavenly help. About twenty years after, Urban the V succeeding Clement, at last revisited Rome, but not so much to recall thither the Pontifical Sea, as to compose the affairs of the City, and the troubles of Italy. But soon after his return from the City into France, he departed this life. After whom Gregory the XI. received the Popedom: who was so moved with the miseries of Italy, and with the worthy prayers of S. Catherine of Sienna, a virgin of admirable sanctity, that at length he returned the Pontifical Sea to Rome, about 70. years after it was translated into France.   

The continuance of Schism depriveth the House of Loreto of many benefits of the Popes. CHAP. XXI.  
SHORTLY after Gregory being taken out of this mortal life, Urban the VI was created Pope, against whom the French faction subrogated Clement the VII. a false Pope, who opposed his Auinigon seat, against the Sea of Rome, which he would have to be called the Roman, whereby the Church was troubled and divided into two parts. But what hindrance the absence of the Roman Bishop was to the ornament and commodities of the House of Loreto, was well perceived even at that time by his presence. For though Urban the Pope was molested and disquieted with schism, 
The Indulgences of Urban the V I  and with the arms and treachery of schismatical Princes: yet in the midst of so many troubles and cares, he had some regard to adorn the B. Virgin of Loreto. For being acertained of the heavenvly flames wont to be seen over the House of Loreto, the 6. of the Ideses of September; he applied his mind to honour the heavenly Queen, and with Pontifical gifts from the Vicar of God, thought good to adorn the native habitation of the B. Virgin, beautified with heavenly signs from God himself. Wherefore to them that visited the House of Loreto, the day of the B. Virgin's nativity, he granted most bountiful remission of their sins, the 90. year of that age, in very fit time. For Bonifacius the IX. succeeding Urban, did not only by example of his Predecessor adorn the House of Loreto with new Indulgences, but also kept the celebrity of the jubiley, which according to the institution of Bonifacius the VIII. fell in the year of our Redemption 1400. And as the Pontifical Sea recalled again to Rome, and a desire to see the Pope, drew an innumerable multitude from all parts to the City, to visit the Churches of the Apostles, so also the fame of these heavenvly flames and Pontifical Indulgences excited many of them to visit the Cell of Loreto, chief in the month of September, and there to celebrate the nativity of the Blessed Virgin. About the same time, 
Hier. Ang.  the Citizens of Recanati (that also in the winter time people might have free passage to the most sacred House) took order that the way which went to Loreto should be paved and bordered with brick; by which they erected little oratory's of like distance from each other, as instigations to increase devotion and to secure the Pilgrims in stormy weather. This example of the people of Recanati, provoked the people of Picene to imitate that pious work; whereby the ways which went to Loreto from the bordering Cities, and towns, began strait to be paved: and from Ancona, Auximo, Montesanto, and Firmo, were brought even to Loreto itself. Also bridges were made over the Rivers, which ran through Pecene, that they might give secure and speedy passage to the Pilgrims. But the continual disturbance of the Christian state, did no less hinder the ornaments of the House of Loreto then the abode of the Roman bishops in France had done. For that long and variable schism (whereof the like hath never been) troubled many Popes for forty years together, 
S. Anto. par. 3.  until Martin the V with the great liking of all, was created Pope in the Council of Constance, who at last brought peace and concord to the Christian world. And truly as that foul tempest of discord, oppressed the Church and the Popes with many evils; so in like manner it deprived the House of Loreto of no small heap of commodities, & that the times ensuing did well declare.   

Martin the V adorneth the House of Loreto with Indulgences and fairs. CHAP. XXII.  
HITHER TO I have rehearsed many things not very manifest, not only for their antiquity and the disquiet of the whole world, but also for that they were badly committed to writing in good part of the time, which happened from the translation of the House of our B. Lady out of Galiley, till she was settled at Loreto, and began to be more & more frequented, in this great variety and disturbance of the Christian state. Also if there were any things, in the records of Recanati, or in other public or private monuments, which might give light to this History, for the most part they perished (as we said before) when the Registry, together with the City was consumed with fire. But the industry of the Dalmatians supplied the want of the Citizens of Recanati; For the Flumentians bordering on Tersact, 
Hier. Angel.  in time of Pope Leo the 10. did give no small light to the first beginning of the history of Loreto, sending those things to the people of Recanati, signed in writing, which they found in the ancient Chronicles of their forefathers, concerning the first remoovall of this most sacred House into Dalmatia, their inquisition, reverence, & the miracles of the same. Whereof the Citizens of Recanati certified Leo the Pope, as witnesseth Hierome Angelita, who at that very time, was Secretary to the City of Recanati, and afterward dedicated his history of Loreto (where he delivered these things to posterity) to Clement the VII. Cousin-german to Leo, and partaker of his secrets. So having followed Angelita, an author of no small reputation and credit, out of the chronicles of Sclavonio, we have collected the first part of this history, adding thereunto out of the proper monuments of Recanati, what the merciless fire left vnconsumed. But hereafter all that we are to relate, will be more evident and copious, because greater diligence was used not only to deliver them to posterity, but also to preserve them by record, that they might come safe to our age and hands. 
The Indulgences and benefits of Martin the V.  Martin therefore bringing peace and quietness to the Church, desired nothing more, then to leave the House of Loreto (famous for miracles and wonders) graced with some gift of his: whereupon granting many & great Indulgences to the most sacred House, he invited all to visit & reverence the Chapel of Loreto, chief in the month of September. Moreover about the 20. year of that age, this benefit he augmented with an other, instituting solemn fairs at Recanati, to the praise, glory, and honour of the B. Virgin of Loreto (as in the Apostolic Breve he delivereth) aiming at that which proved true, that by propinquity and nearness of the places the celebrity of the mart of Recanati, would also increase the celebrity of the House of Loreto: seeing the choice of wares might draw the bordering people, and Indulgences of sins, those merchants to reverence the sacred House: which Indulgences he granted for three months, answerable to the mart of Recanati, so that in any part of September, October, and November (all which the mart of Recanati was to be held) these Indulgences might be gained at Loreto by them, that with due devouotion went to visit the House of the B. Virgin. Afterward many Pope's following the example of Martin, as julius the 2. Xystus the 4. and Leo the 10. (as in due place shall be said) confirmed the mart of Recanati by their authority, and graced the Church of Loreto with Pontifical benefits. But under Martin the V not only the celebrity, but also the ornaments of the House of Loreto had good increase. For the goodly buildings (now called the Chanonry) were raised on the south side, for the Priests, which voluntarily came to serve in the House of Loreto. And also a Palace and an Hospital were then built, to entertain as well the noble as the poorer sort of Pilgrims.   

The wealth of the Church of Loreto in time of Pope Eugenius the FOUR CHAP. XXIII.  
EUGENIUS succeeded Martin, but he was so troubled with the garboils of the City, and with the wicked decrees of the Council of Basill, now corrupted, and also with the schism of Felix V the Antipope, and so solicitous for the Council of Florence, which himself had summoned, that he had almost no leisure to think of adoring the House of Loreto. Notwithstanding Flavius Blondus Secretary to Eugenius, 
The testimony of Flavius Blondus.  and no obscure historiographer of those times, performing as it were the, Pope's duty, graced the Cell of Loreto with these eloquent words.  
Betwixt Recanati and the Adriatic Sea (saith he) a little from the River Musion, in an open and unsensed town, is seated the most famous Chapel of the glorious Virgin MARY in all Italy, called our Lady of Loreto. In which that the prayers of suppliants are heard of Almighty God, by the intercession of his B. mother, this is a great and a most certain argument, that they, who have obtained their vows, have hung up donaries of gold, silver, wax, cloth, linen & , of great estimation and worth, filling almost all the whole Church, which the Bishop preserveth untouched, to the glory of God, and of his B. Mother. Whereby it well appeareth, what fame, what religion, and what celebrity the House of Loreto was of, & also what variety and plenty of donaries it had, Eugenius the fourth being Pope, that is to say, about the year of our Redemption 1450. which being famous and memorable for the jubiley, increased the celebrity and the wealth of Loreto, as it was wont to do. About the same time, by the instigation of Philip Vicecount, Duke of Milan, 
Blond. lib. 5. Dec. 3. Sabel. l. 2. En. 10.  Francis Ssorza making war against the Pope, and bringing Picene by force and policy into his power, the victor purposed to visit the most illustrious Church of our B. Lady of Loreto. But john Vitellescus Bishop of Recanati, 
john Vitellescus Bishop of Recanati.  an active & a wise man governing Picene with great command, and fearing lest the Chapel of our B. Lady (very wealthy by reason of so many donaries) might be ransacked by a soldier puffed up with victory, went about to remove the occasion of avarice, and conveying the chiefest ornaments of the Church of Loreto secretly into a ship prepared for that purpose, he himself speedily transported them first to Venice, & then to Ravenna, to take away the occasion of sacrilege, and to preserve the sacred donaries in safety; and after that tempest was assuaged, brought them back again to Loreto. But the protection of the B. Virgin was not doubtful in defending her own House in time of these stirs. For when so many armies of Ssorza, of the Pope, and of Alsonsus King of Naples wandered freely up and down all Picene in this long and cruel war, and so many Captains of bands came to Loreto; yet in the ransacking of so many towns and Cities, a village unfortified, and famous for the wealth of the Church, (as then things stood) remained always untouched and undefiled: so much either the sanctity of the place, or else the protection of the B. Virgin towards her own state, prevailed with mortal men.   

The House of Loreto is enriched with Indulgences by Nicolas the V and fortified against the force of the Turks. CHAP. XXIIII.  
AFTER the death of Eugenius, 
The benefits of Nicolas the V.  Nicolas the 5. received the Popedom, who not to be overcome by Martin in honouring of our B. Lady, 
Hiero. Angel.  graced the Cell of Loreto with Pontifical gifts. For knowing that the festival day of the B. Virgin's salutation by the Angel, was most famous and memorable in that House (because God himself put on human nature the same day in that very place) he adorned the most joyful light, in which was laid the foundation of man's salvation with an anniversary Indulgence: whereby the Church of Loreto (as the memory of so great a mystery well deserved) yearly on that day began to be exceedingly reverenced. And when Nicolas had adorned the House of Loreto with these Indulgences, he thought good also to provide for the wealth of the same, straightly ordaining that the donaries of Loreto should not be alienated nor sold, suspending the Bishop of Recanati from his function in the Church, if hereafter he presumed to diminish the  jot thereof, or turn them to other uses. And if he did not recover them already sold and dispersed within the space of a month, he should be put out of his Bishopric. Also in the same Breve he gave commandment to the Citizens of Recanati, both to recover and defend the donaries of Loreto. Not only in peace but also in warlike tumult, the worthy piety of Nicolas the Pope was very notable towards the House of Loreto. For about that time Mahomet king of the Turks, 
S. Anto. p. 3. The Turks do take Constantinople.  having slain Constantine Paleolagus the Emperor of the East, and taken Constantinople by force, and filthily spoiled it, translated the seat of the Turkish Empire into Europe, the year of our Redemption 1452. whereupon as soon as it was spread abroad, that Constantinople, the fortress of the Christian Empire was taken by the Barbarians: that the Emperor himself, with the nobility, was slain, and that the Emperor of the Turks, puffed up with so great a victory, near at hand insulted over Greece, and also threatened destruction to Italy itself, truly so great terror was stricken into the Christian forces, that all Italy trembled. Wherefore Nicolas having great care of the House of Loreto, fortified her against the invasion of the Barbarians with strong defence, and prepared to rise against them with all his forces, to repress their fury.   

The House of Loreto is fortified against the Turks, by Callistus the III. and putteth the Barbarians to flight, much frighted with a great overthrow. CHAP. XXV.  
NICOLAS departing this life with grief in the very preparation and meditation of the Turkish war (as it is reported) Callistus the III. succeeded; 
S. Anto. par. 3. Plat. in Call. 3.  who, because it was given out, that the Turks (having conquered P●loponesus and subdued part of Epyrus) were bend into Dalmatia, 
The benefits of Calli●tus the 〈◊〉.  and into Italy itself with great fury and madness, desired nothing more, then to defend the House of Loreto; not doubting but if she were safe, all the rest of Italy would be in safety, by the protection of the mother of God. Whereupon he committed his forces to Roderick Borgia his brother's son, and to Lord john Milianus his sister's son, with the office and title of his Legates, out of hand sending the one into Picene, to whose special charge he committed the House of Loreto, and the other to Bolognia. Both these Legates coming to Loreto with their armies, and entreating peace and pardon of Almighty God and his B. mother, strengthened the House of Loreto (void of walls and fortifications) with rampires & other fortresses made up in haste and unorderly. But though the B. Virgin contemned not the good will of the Pope & his Captains towards her, yet she herself defended her own House, taming, and turning the furious Turks an other way. For at that time the Pope's navy (albeit not very big) spoiling the coasts of Asia with happy adventure and success, 
Anton. p. 3. Sabel. A●ne. 10. lib. 6.  and vanquishing the huge forces of Barbary, under the government of the Patriarch of Aquileia, overcame the Turkish navy in battle, and took most of their Galleys. Moreover by the instigation of Calistus Vsumcassanus King of Persia, roading into the borders of the Turks with a strong army, obtained famous victories of the most insolent enemy, not so much by human force (as himself confessed in his letters sent unto the Pope) as by heavenly aid. And much about the same time, john Humatez Precedent of Hungary setting on the Turks as they besieged Belgrade (a famous town of Hungary) with great forces & strength, made great slaughter among them with a few soldiers, which seemed not to be the work of man. For when john Capistranus a holy man of the family of S. Francis, brought in the sign of Christ Crucified, the Barbarians were put to flight and slain, and Mahomet their Emperor was wounded; which doubtless did proceed from the goodness of God: for the Captains themselves acknowledged that so notable a victory was gotten by heavenly favour. Wherefore having obtained so many and so great victories of so mighty an enemy by heavenly aid, as all confessed, it animated the Christians to hope well of their common cause. And shortly after, no small thing to be spoken of, increased their godly hope, and carried the name of our B. Lady of Loreto, into all the Christian world.   

By restoring of health to Pius the second, the House of Loreto began to be far more reverenced and famous. CHAP. XXVI.  
PIUS the second a wise and a virtuous man was elected for Callistus, 
Plat. in Pio. 2.  who not only by his letters and Legates, but also by his own presence & words animating Christian Kings and Princes to the Turkish war in the Council of Mantua, with the labours of his journey fell into a long and a dangerous sickness, this most distressed time of the Christian common wealth. For great part of the sacred soldiers, who had received the Cruzado, and given their names to the sacred war, were to meet at Ancona by Pius his commandment, and there to expect his coming, as was agreed upon. But a burning fever and a most vehement cough, did so afflict the aged and overwearied body of Pius in this most adverse time of the Christian state, that he was not only, not able to go, but even out of hope to come to Amona, as he had appointed. Therefore relecting the hope and help of the Physicians, he impsored the assistance of our B. Lady of Loreto, whose worthy power in curing of diseases was miraculous as he understood, not so much desiring to seek a remedy for his present sickness, as for his journey to Ancona. And doubting not, but that his prayers were heard, forth with he gave and dedicated to the B. Virgin, a golden Chalice very notable for workmanship & weight, wherein the Pope himself caused this writing to be incised, for a monument of his vow and gift.  
HOLY MOTHER OF GOD,  
Though thy power be not restrained to any copasse, but filleth the whole world with miracles, yet because it is thy will oftentimes to be delighted more with one place then with an other: and day by day adornest thy beloved seat of Loreto, with innumerable graces and miracles: I unhappy sinner, with heart and mind, recurre unto thee, suppliantly beseeching thee to take from me this burning fever, and most troublesome cough, and to restore my feeble body his wont health, profitable, as we hope, to the Christian common wealth: In the mean time accept this gift, as a token of my service.  
POPE PIUS THE II. THE YEAR OF OUR SALVATION M. CCCC.LXIV.  
His gift was so pleasing to the B. Virgin, that the hope of Pius the Pope deceived him not any jot at all. A wonder to be spoken: For he had no sooner made his vow, but the heat of the fever began to relent, the cough to diminish, and strength to return to his diseased body almost consumed with sickness and age. Whereupon Pius unwilling to delay the time (though he had not yet recovered perfect strength) undertook his journey towards Ancona, 
Pius the 2. doth Visit the B. Virgin of Loreto.  by the way to perform the vow which he had made to visit the B. Virgin of Loreto. Many Cardinals and Peers of Rome went with him, riding in a horselitter, whom partly the charitable and reverend respect they bore unto him, as also the fame of the miracle, and partly the desire they had to see the sacred army caused to accompany from the City itself. In this journey the nearer the Pope came to the House of Loreto, the better he felt himself, that it might plainly appear how he recovered his strength: For when he came to present himself before the B. Virgin his Patroness, he was perfect well: and well remembering the help which he had received in the City, and likewise in they way, he performed his vow with great devotion, whereby the majesty of Loreto did appear more than ever at any time before. For at the same instant, you might have seen many Cardinals and Peers of Rome, attending on Pius, and many famous Captains of the war which came from Ancona to meet the Pope, and the high Priest himself praying with fervent devotion before the B. Virgin of Loreto. And when Pius had religiously performed his vow, he went to Ancona with all that company waiting on him. But the delay of the Captains of the sacred war, was the only hindrance, that he received no such benefit as he desired, by the vow which he obtained by the intercession of the B. Virgin of Loreto. For being more and more impaired with age and feebleness, and fitting at Ancona in all the summer heats, expecting the Venetian fleet, and other confederates of the war, he began to pine away, either overwearied with their delay, or else with old age oppressing his feeble body, wherewith falling into a gentle and a continual fever, he was at last consumed, and departed to heaven to receive the reward of his labours, & of that most worthy endeavour, the 66. year of that age, deserving worthy remembrance as well for his notable gifts of mind, as for his piety and religion. Neither is it to be reckoned among the least of Pius praises, that such a man recovering his health by the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, and so many Princes and Nations reporting it abroad, greatly increased the worthy name and reverence of the House of Loreto. For until that time (very near a hundred and sixty years from her coming into Italy the fame of the House of Loreto) did not much pass the bounds of Picene: so that a certain obscure or doubtful rumour thereof scarce came into the bordering or into remote countries: that none may think it strange, that news of the transportation of the sacred House from Galiley into Italy, had neither pierced to S. Vincent Ferrier in Spain, entangled in the schism of Auinigon, and busied in the religion of Mont-Seratto, nor to S. Antoninus, nor other Tuscan writers of former times in Tuscan, all miserably vexed and divided with Civil wars. Which truly was the cause why S. Vincent in a certain sermon, following the ancient report, affirmed that the B. Virgin's House was then in Galilee: and S. Antoninus and other ancient Historiographers of Tuscan, made no mention at all of the House of Loreto, as ignorant of her memorable translation and coming into Italy. Yet Blondus the Historiographer, almost equal with the above mentioned, being the Pope's servant, and having sufficient knowledge thereof, left (as we showed before) a worthy testimony of the sacred House of Loreto. And of her miraculous transportation, therefore peradventure ancienter Historiographers made no mention at all, lest they might seem to have reported a vain and an incredible thing, specially seeing so unusual a miracle, never heard of from the beginning of the world, was not as yet confirmed by the Pope's authority. But assoon as Pius the Pope, ready to die, in the sight of the City, and as it were of the whole Christian world, was restored to his health by so evident a miracle, at the intercession of our B. Lady of Loreto; it so marvelously increased her religion & honour, that from that time the House of Loreto filled the remotest Countries with the fame of her name: and out of the farthest part of the world invited Pilgrims to Loreto; where a few years before the divine providence had prepared a very convenient refuge and succour for all.   

The sacred House is endowed with goodly possessions by the Bishop of Recanati, for the relief of poor Pilgrims. CHAP. XXVII  
NICOLAS ASTIUS a man famous for sanctimony and learning, 
Hier. Angel.  being Bishop of Recanati, by reason of his exceeding devotion to the B. Virgin of Loreto, 
Out of the Bull of julius the second.  purposed to augment and maintain her honour, with his uttermost endeavour. For a great multitude of poor Pilgrims resorted daily to Loreto either to perform their vows, or else to gain the Indulgences, whom the treasury of Loreto very bountifully relieved for her ability, bestowing large portions to every one. And lest the fountain of this benignity might in time decrease, the Bishop of Recanati thought good to increase it with the revenues of certain lands. For having many pleasant and fruitful possessions, near to the House of Loreto, he gave and dedicated them to the B. Virgin mother of God, the 58. year of that age. The Charter of which Donation, we thought good to insert in this place, that all might not only know the exceeding piety or Nicolas the Bishop towards the B. Virgin of Loreto; but also how much money the House of Loreto bestowed on poor Pilgrims, 
The liberality of the Sacred H●use to the poor.  when she had no possessions at all. And thus it is: Nicolas Bishop of Recanati and Macerata obtaining the government of the Church of our B. Lady of Loreto in the Diocese of Recanat●, by dispensation of the Sea Apostolic; and considering the continual devotion and sincere love, which he always had to the aforesaid Church of our B. Lady, the great multitude of Pilgrims and of other people w●i●● came thither to perform their vows, and to gain the Indulgences, and o● many feeble and poor men, who daily resorted to the said Church of our B. Lady (●esides the festival d●ie of the aforesaid most glorious Virgin Marie) AND ALSO THE EXCEEDING GREAT ALMS, WHICH CHRIST'S POOR RECEIVED OUT OF THE HOUSES OF THE AFORESAID CHURCH, AND NECESSARILY MU RECEIVE, & the rest that followeth. Which is so much the certainer, for that it was committed to writing by him, who by reason of his office and function, must needs best know the state of Loreto. And the house of Loreto being enriched with these revenues, increased her liberality to the poor, in such sort that the fame of this bounty joined to her religion propagated the most comfortable name of the House of Loreto far and near, inviting the people of all nations to visit the House of Loreto. For assoon as the poor Pilgrims of the remotest countries (Who had been partakers of that necessary relief) returned home; they did no less praise the liberality, than the religion of the B. Virgin of Loreto; which stirred others to experience that, which they heard them report. And very opportunely, a small thing to be spoken of, did not a little increase this report beginning to be much spread abroad in Cities and foreign countries.   

The sum of the History of Loreto is set up in the Church by Tereman the Governor. CHAP. XXVIII.  
PETER GEORGE TEREMAN the Governor, a man of great integrity and wisdom, having governed the House of Loreto many years, 
Hiero. Angel.  after the death of Nicolas Astius, was also made Bishop of Recanati: who in time of Pius the second, about the 60. year of that age, in favour of the Pilgrims, set up in the House of Loreto, the sum of that history (gathered out of that little book which in time past, as we showed before, was published at Recanati) that all might have means to know it; which he caused to be set down in a simple and a plain style, conformable to the understanding of the Commonalty, that it might be an acceptable and grateful repast to the Pilgrims not altogether unlearned, and no small ornament of the House of Loreto itself. And this endeavour of Tereman was so allowed by posterity, that as often as that writing decayed with antiquity, they repaired it again. For indeed the History itself, is repeated from the first remembrance of the people of Recanati; and the religion and diligence of Tereman did not a little authorize the thing itself: who demanding it by oath of the witnesses which then were living, desired to have so great a thing testified as much as might be. Whereupon he allegeth two sufficient witnesses, Paul Rinalducius, and Francis surnamed Prior, both Citizens of Recanati, good men and of approved credit. And first Rinalducius often witnessed before Tereman the Governor (as he himself delivereth) that he had heard his grandfather sundry times report, how he saw the House of the B. Virgin when the Angels carried it on high over the sea, and placed it in Recanati wood: and that he had also gone sundry times unto it with many Citizens of Recanati, whiles it stood in the wood. And also Francis Prior often heard his grandfather, being a man of a hundred & twenty years of age, and having the perfect use of his senses, report (as for his testimony he delivereth) that he had gone very often with many others to the sacred House, whiles it stood in the wood, and that in his remembrance it was translated into the hill of the two Brothers. Moreover Hierome Angelita, continual Secretary to the City of Recanati, in his History of the B. Virgin of Loreto doth deliver; that Paul Kinalducius and Francis Prior upon their oaths ministered unto them by Tereman the Governor, who was not only Rector of the Church of Loreto, but also Bishop of Recanati, did testify those things to be, even as Tereman the Governor had related them. Whereby it may sufficiently appear, that Tereman the Governor, when he rightly took their testimony of this so great a miracle, was as well Bishop of Recanati, as Governor of the House of Loreto. And lest any should doubt of Teremans' sincerity, Nicolas Astius Bishop of Recanati, in the book of his Donation (which we mentioned before) doth set down a worthy testimony of his sincerity and religion in these words. Considering the grateful offices of devotion, the sincere fidelity, & the very great diligence, which the Venerable & circumspect men, Sig or. Pietro Giorgio Rector of the Church of S. Sinideus of Teramo, Governor of the sacred House, & also Sig or. Antonio etc. Priests, Residents in the said house, for a long time have bestowed in spiritual matters, & in other affairs & temporal business of the same Church, & of the beloved house, and yet sail not daily to bestow & exhibit, with diligent & vigilant care, with prudent endeavours, & solicitude: and the rest that followeth. Wherefore the approved religion and authority of such a man, must needs make much for the credit of this short History, and from that time, either the health of Pius restored unto him by miracle, or the fame of her liberality towards poor Pilgrims, or else the publication of the History of Loreto, made the B. Virgin of Loreto famous and illustrious among all nations.    

THE SECOND BOOK OF THE HISTORY OF LORETO: Collected by the Reverend F. HORATIUS TURSELLINUS, Of the Society of JESUS.  

POPE PAUL THE SECOND being cured of the plague, goeth about to beautify the house of LORETO with a new Church, & to adorn it with his Decrees. CHAP. I.  
HEREAFTER I will continue and go forward with the miracles and ornaments of the House of Loreto renowned and illustrious, in all the Christian world: for that their fame hath now filled men's ears and minds. After the decease of Pius the Pope; the Cardinals who accompanied him to Ancona, determining to go to Rome, to the election of the new Pope, a horrible plague began at Ancona, by reason of so great an assembly of people (as commonly it happeneth) being much distempered, with the exceeding heats of of the summer; which at the first, infected the commonalty, but then the nobility and Peers themselves. Therefore, the terror of the present danger hastened the departure, or rather flight of the Fathers; though truly the flight itself, delivered not one of them from the sickness, 
Hier. Ang.  to be an occasion of glory to Loreto. Peter Barbus Cardinal of S. Mark (remarkable among the rest, for years, wisdom and experience) being infected with the sickness, began to be grieved in mind, 
The Cardipall of S. Mark is cu●ed of the plague in the House of Loreto.  to see the dreadful shape of imminent death before his eyes. But Pope Pius the second, was a fresh example of the help of Loreto. Calling therefore to mind, how Pius was miraculously restored to his health, forthwith he gave commandment, that he might be carried to the Church of Loreto. Whither assoon as he came, the multitude was removed, and he himself was brought into the sacred Cell of the mother of God; where with great devotion, lying down on the ground, he put all the hope of cure (next after God) in the B. Virgin, craved remedy against the danger of imminent death, and heartily recommended the Christian common wealth, deprived of her Bishop, to God and the B. Virgin. Neither in vain: For as he was in prayer, a certain gentle and sweet sleep came upon him, in which (as it is reported) the mother of God appeared unto him, in a certain heavenly shape: who bidding him be of good comfort, told him that his prayers were heard; that e●●soones the sickness should be taken away, and that ere long, through the providence of God, he should be created Pope. The event showed that the vision was unfeigned. For when he awaked, the sickness was gone: and by virtue of his vow, he recovered strength both of body and mind, beyond all expectation. Whereof being exceeding glad, and joyfully acknowledging the manifold benefits of God and his B. mother, he gave hearty thanks to them both, and came safe and sound out of the sacred Chapel, leaving all that were privy to his sickness, amazed and astonished, with the admiration of the thing. And being put in good hope of the high Priesthood, by the promise of the B. Virgin, and also well remembering the benefit, which he had received, he commanded the Governor of the House of Loreto forthwith to be sent for. To whom he openly declared, how he purposed to build, a most magnificent Church, in honour of our B. Lady of Loreto; out of hand in his name, and at his cost, willing him to provide lime, mortar, and other stuff, sufficient for such a work. Departing thence to Rome, to the election of the new Pope, he himself was created Pope, taking on him the name of Paul the second: 
Paul the 2. doth build a new Church about the House of Loreto  and having scarce entered into his Popedom, he determined to begin the Church of Loreto; as not unmindful by whose help, he obtained not only health of body, but even the highest dignity that may be. And foreseeing already in his mind, the greatness of that place in time to come, assoon as the old Church was taken down, he occupied great space of the ground adjoining, with goodly foundations, & speedily went forward with the work itself. That a great part of the Church of Loreto was built by Paul the second, Baptista Mantuanus doth testify, by whom in his Poem Agelariorum, that is, Of the Shepherds, the Governor of the ship, speaketh this to Antony, a princ palls man sailing along the Picene shore. 
Bapt. Mant. lib. 6.   

That building which on Picene shores, you now far of behold,  
Belongs to Her, that did God's Son, in Virgin's womb enfold;  
Which hither from Assyria once, by powerful Angels aid,  
With passage strange, above the seas, was through the air conveyed.   
And a little after.  

Laureta's House they do it call, yet must it not be thought,  
That this high Temple also was, from foreign countries brought.  
These ornaments were added since, to grace the House withal,  
At charge and great devotion of the Prince of Prelates, Paul.   
Whereby we may conjecture, that he brought the Church of Loreto, almost unto the roof. And whiles the Church was forwarded with all expedition, the Pope did not only adorn the House of the mother of God with buildings, 
The Indulgences of Paul the 2.  but also with letters and Pontifical gifts. For to them that visited the House of Loreto, all the festival days of our B. Lady, and the sundays of the year ben●ides, he granted full remission of their sins. It seemeth a thing worth the labour, to insert the beginning of both his Breves, that all may see the worthy testimony of the high Bishop, concerning the great sanctatie of the House of Loreto, and a monument of his own health restored unto him by miracle. 
The testi●●●●ie of Paul the 2.  Having therefore spoken a few things, according to the ancient use of the Roman Bishops, thus he writeth. Though for the Greatness of the graces which by the intercession of the glorious Virgin MARIE, the Mother of his Son, the Almighty, daily worketh to the faithful, making their godly Vows unto her, holy Churches, dedicated in honour of her name, are to be reverenced with great devotion; notwithstanding that honour is to be exhibited more carefully tun ardes those, in which by the intercession of the said B. Virgin, the Highest worketh greatest, and most evident miracles: as the experience thereof is manifest at the Church of our B. Lady of Loreto in the Diocese of Recan●●●i, where miraculously was placed the true Image of the B. Virgin herself; and whither devout people assembled from divers parts of the world, by reason of the great, of the wonderful, and innumerable miracles, which there are wrought by the help of the glorious Virgin: AND WE IN OUR OWN PERSON HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME, 
The b●●●e●● 〈…〉.  and the rest that followeth. Moreover with these Indulgences, he granted singular priu●edges. 
The House of Loreto S. ●●●pted from 〈◊〉 jurisdiction o● the Bishop of Recana●i  For he exempted the House of Loreto, together with her ministers, and all things thereunto belonging, out of the jurisdiction o● the Bishop of Recana●i, receiving it into his, into the protection of the Sea Apostolic, and of the holy Apostles S. Peter and S. Paul: and granted most ample faculty to the Priests of Loreto, to absolve Pilgrims, from sins and offences, reserved to the Bishop, 
another testimony of Paul the 2.  or to the Sea Apostolic. I thought good also to set down the poem of this ●ater Decree, in which he maketh very honourable mention of the House of Loreto, as followeth. Seeing to the Church of our B. Lady of Loreto, seated on one side the walls of the City of Recana●i, in which through the great clemency of God (as credible persons have delivered) the House and the Image of the glorious Virgin her self was placed by the handworke of Angels, and to the which, for the often & the wonderful miracles, which by the merits and intercession of the same glorious Virgin, the Almighty worketh on all that recurre unto her, and with humility implore her help, daily out of divers, even the remotest parts of the world, multitudes of people being delivered by the aid of the said glorious Virgin, do flock & assemble: and the rest that followeth.   

james a Franciscan is delivered from an incurable disease, and from the assaults of Devils. CHAP. II.  
CERTAIN miracles of this time are delivered, which are not to be omitted. james of Picene, a holy and a learned man, of the family of the Franciscans, being a worthy preacher of the Gospel, 
Chron. Franc. li. 6. c. 3. et 4.  about the 70. year of that age, was taken with an incurable disease, which did much disquiet his mind: for so great was the force of his sickness, that the very name thereof, took from him all hope of helping people, by mean of holy sermons: whereupon despairing of human help, he turned his hope and his vow to God and his B. mother; & forth with, notwithstanding his infirmity, coming to Loreto in manner of a Pilgrim, in the sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, in time of the dreadful sacrificewith flowing tears he earnestly besought the Queen or heaven, that through the mercy or jesus her son, she would obtain for him hearth of body, which peradventure might be to the salvation of many people, by preaching his holy Gospel. Without delay our B. Lady appeared unto him, bidding him ask of her some other thing, for that which he requested was already granted. And james in continent perceiving, that he was restored unto his health, gave hearty thanks unto the B. Virgin, and returned home, not so much joying his own hap, as theirs whose salvation he tendered. Neither in this only, was he made partaker of the help of our B. Lady of Loreto. For certain years after, being long and much vexed with the importunate fiends, he made haste to Loreto, the most certain solace of his evils; where as he was celebrating at the Altar of the B. Virgin, with much grief and sorrow of mind, he besought her experienced help, and entreated that at last his trouble some and dangerous combat might have an end. His prayers were heard: For as he was fervent in prayer, our B. Lady appeared unto him again, and said: Son be of good comfort, and be thankful to the giver of all goodness: the end of thy combat is at hand, and a celestial Crown remaineth for thee the Conqueror. And the event approved the prediction. For not long after, the sources of the cumbersome enemies were vanquished, joyful peace suddenly followed, and then was he called into heaven to be rewarded with celestial bliss   

Pope Xystus the fourth increaseth, and graceth the old Decrees, with new-ones. CHAP. III.  
NEITHER was Xystus the fourth the successor of Paul inferior to him in adorning the B. Virgin of Loreto. 
Hier. Angel. Bern. Cyril.  For he granted new Indulgences unto the old, & confirming the privileges of Paul with his authority, he freed the Priests of Loreto from paying of tithes, and increasing their number, gave them faculty to dispense with vows. Moreover the 75. year of that age (memorable for the celebrity of the jubiley) with Pontifical authority he ratified the Donation of Nicolas Astius Bishop of Recanati (whereof we spoke before) and witnessed his hearty affection and piety towards the B. Virgin of Loreto in the beginning of a certain Breve in these words. Being desirous that the Church of Loreto, to the which we bear special affection of devotion, should be frequented with due honour, and that faithful people may more willingly recurre thither for devotion sake, we confirm; and the rest which followeth. Neither doth it a little redound to the praise of Xystus, and to the dignity of the House of Loreto, that when the Carmelites had undoubtedly acertained him, that all the holy places of Palestine (and among them the native House or the B. Virgin) before the Saracens took them by force of arms, were credited and committed to them, in their favour, he witnessed the same in Apostolical writing: which was the cause, 
Hierome Cardinal Roboreo is made Patron of the House of Loreto  why afterward the government of the most sacred House was redelivered unto the Carmelites, as in due place we are to declare. Besides Xystus committed the patronship of the House of Loreto, together with the Bishopric of Recanati, to Hierome Cardinal Roboreo his sister's son, to no small good of the sacred House itself. For what at his uncles request, and his own godly disposition, he finished the Church which Paul the second had begun, and increased the celebrity thereof, with sacred ornaments, with selected Priests & Choristers.   

A great army of Turks ready to spoil the wealth of Loreto, is put to flight by miracle. CHAP. FOUR  
ABOUT that time there happened a great storm, to show both the wealth and religion of the House of Loreto. 
Hier. Aug  For when Mahomet the Turkish Emperor, had assaulted the Island of Rhodes in vain, he sent one of his Captains with his navy into Italy: who about the 70. year of that age, coming on the sudden to the noble town Otranto, in the province of the Salentines, got even the key of Italy: And having ransacked the places thereabout, he was ready to spoil the other maritime coasts of the Adriatic sea. Whereupon the people of Recanati (albeit much terrified with news of imminent danger) without regard of their own Country, purposed to defend the House of Loreto with all their might, and putting a strong garrison into the town, kept watch day & night. And lest a vain hope of getting the wealthy prey might allure the Barbarians to assault the sacred House of Loreto, they resolved to convey the chiefest Donaries of Loreto into safe custody: so taking them out, and recording them as the manner is, by certain men they were brought to Recanati, and laid up safe in the Castle, being then estimated at six thousand Crowns. Among which there was a silver statue of Laurence Medici's (the son of Peter, who was nephew to great Cosmo) which kneeling, was above a cubit high; and peradventure the short inscription thereof (wherein was Laurence P. F. Medici's) deceived Angelita, to interpret that Laurence Per-sancis, which signifieth Petrifilium, that is to say, the son of Peter. Truly I believe that when Laurence was so pressed with the Arms of Xystus the Pope and his Colleges, that he was constrained to fly to Ferdinand King of Naples his deadly enemy, he vowed that gift, and when the war & danger was past, he either brought or sent it to the B. Virgin of Loreto. But the godly resolution of the people of Recanati, and the remoovall of the sacred gold and silver out of danger, hindered not the Barbarians from assaying their mische●●e. For coming with their navy to the castle of the haven of Recanati, to ransack and sposse, and neglecting small preys, they made haste to the prey of Loreto, which they understood to be most wealthy, not knowing that it was transported thence: The Citizens of Recanati defended the House of Loreto, as we have said, but to small purpose truly against so great an army of Barbarians, puffed up with victory, unless the Governess of the place, had been the saseguarde of her own house. For at the very sight of the Sacred House, such terror came suddenly on all the Turkish army, that most unwillingly it caused them forthwith to retire, all together dismaying them, and making them to confess that God himself did protect & defed that sacred House. Neither was their sacrilegious attempt long unpunished. For soon after the most proud Tyrant, was taken away by sudden death, Otranto recovered by the Christians, and the Turks driven out of Italy. And this very danger moving Card. Roboreo Patron of Loreto, to fortify the Church of Loreto, with the intended fortifications, soon after the Church itself was fenced in manner of a Castle, against the sudden incursions of the enemy.   

Pope Innocentius the VIII. doth honour the sacred House with gifts, and committeth it to the government of the Carmelites. CHAP. V  
AFTER Xystus, Innocentius the eight was chosen, whose reign was so molested with his own and with the troubles of the City, and so entangled with the Neapolitan war, that he had almost no ability nor leisure, to deserve well of the Church of Loreto: yet he was not altogether without this praise. For Innocentius sent to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift a golden tablet of great beauty adorned with the arms of his gentry, 
Cod. Laur.  to hang about her neck, as a token of his devotion towards her; an ornament of velvet for the Bishop (called a Cope) set forth magnificently with excellent flowers of gold, well embroidered and glittering with pearl, and tapestry made of silk and gold. 
Bapt. Mant.  In whose Popedom Cardinal Roboreo, as well Patron of the House of Loreto, as of the amilie of the Carmeli es, calling to mind how those Fathers had undoubtedly acertained Xystus the FOUR his uncle, that the sacred house before it departed out of Galiley, was committed to their government, by the Pope's authority, he appointed them to govern it again: who many years agone being driven out of Asia by the Barbarians, filled Europe no less with good examples then with Monasteries; and in Italy lately reform their discipline with new rules by little & little decaying. Also out of their whole number, they selected thirty fittest for the government of Loreto, whereof Bapt. Mantuanus, Vicar general of the congregation of Mantua was one, who wrote the History of the House of Loreto, and dedicated it to Card. Roboreo, the same year that he came to Loreto, which was 1489.   

The testimony of Baptista Mantuanus. CHAP. VI  
BAPTISTA MANTVANUS a divine and an excellent Poet, 
The testimony of Baptista Matuanus.  in the beginning of his history doth set down a worthy testimony of the House of Loreto, which shall not be amiss to insert in this place. When of late (saith he) I came to the sacred House of the most holy Virgin Marie, and saw how great and wonderful miracles Almighty God did work there, as most manifest signs of his virtue and clemency; a horror came suddenly upon me, and me thought I heard the voice of our Lord saying to Moses; approach not hither, but put of thy shoes, for the place in which thou standest, is holy earth. And soon after he delivereth, that in the Church of Loreto he had read a table, fastened to a wall, defaced and spoiled with moisture & antiquity, wherein was written the history, how, & by what means, that place came to be of so great fame: having, I say, spoken thus, he addeth. The History therefore contained in that table was thus: The Church of the B. Mother of God at Loreto, was sometime the Chamber of the B. Virgin herself, where she was borne, brought up, saluted by the Angel Gabriel, and ouershaddowed by the Holy Ghost. And he relateth the rest which Tereman the governor delivered to memory, and set up in the Church of Loreto, that it may plainly appear, that he took them out of the Table of Tereman. Finally beginning to praise this most majestical House, he doth not only compare it to the earthly Paradise, where Eve was framed of Adam's side; To the mount Sinai, where the law was given; To the Temple of King Solomon, ennobled with the special presence of Almighty God; To the den of Bethleem, the birth place of our Saviour; To the mount Thabor, where Christ our Lord environed with most beautiful brightness appeared talking with Moses and Elias; To the mount Olivet whence he triumphantly ascended into heaven: but also preferreth it much, and far be●ore the most sacred Sepulchre of Christ, than the which, nothing on earth, is accounted more holy: Specially because God himself taking upon him our humanity in that Sacred place, laid there the foundations of man's salvation. Of which praise this truly is aworthy and a fruitful conclusion. But why proceed I to say more of the ineffable dignity of this most Sacrea House? For I may well conclude with the saying of the Patriarch jacob: This place is terrible here is nothing else but the House of God, and the gate of heaven. And assoon as the History of Loreto was committed to writing, by Mantuan a most famous man, (until that day delivered by word of mouth) it was strait published with great increase of devotion to Loreto, & good of mortal men. For this History whereof I speak, being spread abroad in a little volume, and being greedily and every where read, stirred many to visit and reverence the sacred house of Loreto. But this very year is not only memorable for the history of Mantuan, but also ●or the gift of a most noble Prince. Stephen Bathorius Prince of Transiluania (whom they call the Vayvode) sent to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift, a silver Image of our B. Lady, 
The gift of the Vavode of Transyluania.  almost a cubit and a half, of excellent workmanship, and curiously inlaied with gold. At whose feet the Vayvode himself being all in armour is expressed in a silver Image as if he were praying, which the Inscription of the base declareth to be a votive gift.  
THE MAGNIFICENT LORD STEPHEN EARL OF BATHOR, VAYVODE OF TRANSILVANIA, EARL OF SICULUM AND JUDGE OF THE covert OF THE MOST EXCELLENT PRINCE, MATHIAS, BY THE GRACE OF GOD, KING OF HUNGARY, BOHEMIA etc.  
DEDICATED THIS SILVER IMAGE IN HONOUR OF GOD, AND OF HIS MOST BLESSED MOTHER,  
FOR THAT BY THE INTERCESSION OF THE SAID GLORIOUS VIRGIN, HE WAS DELIVERED OF A CERTAIN GREAT DANGER THE YEAR, M. CCCC.LXXXIX.   

A noble woman of France being possessed with seven Devils is delivered. CHAP. VII.  
AND the same year is memorable for a worthy miracle. 
Bapt. Mant. Hier. Ang.  Peter surnamed Argentorix, a noble and wealthy Citizen of Grenoble, having Antonia his wife, a woman of like nobility possessed with seven horrible Devils, was so solicitous for her deliverance, that when he had left nothing unexperienced in France, he brought her into Italy, where solemn exorcisms were used to little avail: first at S. julius in the territory of Novara, then in Modena, at S. Geminian, and lastly at the sacred Pillar in Rome, God reserving the honour of this woman's delivery to the B. Virgin of Loreto. Whereby Argentorix getting neither remedy for her, nor knowing what course to take, despaired of his purpose, and thought to return into his Country: but meeting with a knight of Rhodes of his acquaintance who knew very well what cures were done by the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, he persuaded him to bring her thither with great confidence, the 89. year of that age. Whither assoon as they came, the woman striving with great force, was lifted up by ten strong men, who bringing her into the most sacred Cell, presented her before the Image of our B. Lady. Stephen Francigena a Cham●n of Osimo (a man of approved honesty and virtue) being then keeper of the most holy Chapel, began to conjure the most troublesome Devils, with exorcisms a the manner is; and at his command they confessed their names, but obstinately refused to go forth. Yet the constancy of the Priest, & doubtless the power of god, overcame the obstinacy of the devils. 
A possessed woman 〈◊〉 delivered from Devils  For in the virtue of God, and in the name of the B. Virgin of Loreto, four of them being driven out one after an other, filled the sacred house with great roaring. The three which remained were more obstinate than the former, whom Stephen encountering with greater fervour, pressed to cast them out, often calling on the name of our B. Lady. Whereby not long after, the fift (whose name was Heroth) being wearied with the torments, went his way, as by the sign was understood, and speaking to Stephen said unto him; Mary hath cast us out, and not thou. Shortly after the sixth breaking forth cried with mornfull plaint, Marry, Marry, thou art to cruel against us. When the rest were cast forth, the last named Arctus, more stubborn than all the other, with sorrowful lamentation and howling began to say: M●●ie thou art to potent, specially in this place, where thou dost thrust us out of our possession most unwillingly. The Devil making such honourable mention of that place, put into Stephen a desire, to question with him thereabout. Wherefore to wrest the truth out of a liar, he was fully determined neither to cease to demand of him, what manner of place it was, nor to desist to command him, in the name of God and his B. Mother to tell the truth. Neither in vain: for Arctus being constrained by virtue of the exorcisms, at last confessed that it was the Chamber of the Mother of God, where the conceived Almighty God by the foretelling of Gabriel; adding withal that Almighty God enforced him to tell him the truth. Which enkindled in Stephen a desire to know where the Angel stood, when he saluted the B. Virgin; and where the B. Virgin prayed, when she was saluted by the Angel. Therefore to wrest the truth out of the father of lies, he was most diligent to compel him with solemn exorcisms, to show both places out of hand. Who at last compelled by divine power, declared, that indeed the B. Virgin praying to Almighty God, in the angle of the sacred Cell, a little beyond the place where the Gospel is read being on the right hand of the most sacred Chimney (where at this present standeth a footstool to kneel upon) was there saluted by Gabriel; and that the Angel stood right against her in the contrary angle, on the right hand of the window, that it may easily appear, the Angel for reverence of the B. Virgin, sought out the remotest place, within the walls of the sacred Cell. And when Arctus had declared these things, he was at last forced out of the body of the possessed woman, leaving her without sense: who not long after, coming to herself, and arising from the floor, where she lay prostrate, together with her husband, gave manifold thanks to the B. Virgin of Loreto, and devoutly performed her vow. There is scarce any thing of this kind more notable, and better witnessed. For many of the magistrates of the City of Recanati were present, amongst whom was john Francis Angelita, his father that composed the history of the B. Virgin of Loreto. Antony Bonsino Asculanus, he that wrote the Decades of the Kingdom of Hungary was there, and also john Baptista Mantuanus, as in his History of Loreto, he himself delivereth; who to that which we have said, addeth this. That the said Arctus being rightly compelled by virtue of the exorcisms, told this also among the rest, that the sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, before it departed out of Nazareth, was committed to the government of the Carmelites. Which albeit they were declared by the manifestation of the lying Devil; yet because they were extorted in the power & name, of the true and omnipotent God, they are not to be esteemed as vain, specially seeing they may be true, and may increase the reverence of the Christian Religion.   

The gift of the City of Recanati, for her deliverance from the plague. And the departure of the Carmelites. CHAP. VIII.  
AFTER Innocentius the VIII. Alexander the VI succeeded, whose Popedom was nothing more peaceable than that of Innocentius, because Italy burned still with Civil & foreign wars, albeit more memorable, for the celebrity of the jubiley which fell in the year of our salvation, 1500. About which time a horrible plague was so fierce at Recanati, that the infection increased more and more, and consumed many of the Citizens, daily threatening greater calamity to that City. Whereupon by advice of the nobility, the magistrates resolving to go in solemn procession to the House of Loreto, made a public vow. Neither was their hope and prayer in vain. For presently by the votive supplication, the plague was (as it were) taken away by the hand of God, and the City delivered out of danger. Wherefore the Citizens of Recanati, 
The gift of the City of Recanati.  in due of their vow, gathering a great sum of money towards a votive gift, according to every man's ability, in solemn procession carried to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift, a golden Crownet, beset with precious jewels, the 96. year of that age: which Crownet being put on the B. Virgin, they obtained of Cardinal Roboreo, that it might never be removed; and got the cardinals benefit confirmed by the authority of julius the 11. and afterward of other Popes. And the example of this grateful piety prevailed so much with the bordering people, that hence proceeded that religious custom which at this present is so much used, to wit that the Cities and towns of Picene, with solemn supplication and pomp, bring yearly a Crownet to the B. Virgin of Loreto. Not long after Hierome Roboreo the Cardin all perceiving that the floor of the most sacred Cell was decayed partly with kneeling and partly scraped up with men's hands (for the stones were taken thence, & wrapped in silk to be preserved for relics) paved it very beauti ullie with sovare spotted marble, which was so notable a chequer work, that in as great magnificence, as the Church of Loreto now is, the same remaineth yet to be seen. near to the porch of the Church by the Pope's consent, Roboreo began to build most magnificent houses, plotted by Bramant, an excellent Architect of that time: and also opened and adorned a well of huge bigness in the Cloister of the Church, that the townesfolke and strangers might not want water: and providing for the welfare of the Inhabitants, and of the Pilgrims, he put the ancient Procurators of the Church of Loreto in office again. For the grossness of the air which was then at Loreto (proceeding from the woods and ditches thereabout) having consumed many of the Carmelites, Peter Taruisine their Vicar General commanded them to forsake the government of the Church of Loreto, and to departed to more healthful places about nine years after they came thither. In whose place the Cardinal Patron substituted certain godly, but hired Priests, who continued till the reign of Leo the 10. in whose time the government came at last to Canons.   

The Decrees of julius the second, his works in the new Church, and the Donaries of Noble men. CHAP. IX.  
ALEXANDER the VI being taken out of this mortal life, Pius the 4. was chosen Pope; but his reign was so short, that it hardly continued above three weeks. After Pius, julius the second succeeded, second to none of the precedent Popes, in devotion towards the B. Virgin of Loreto. For the FOUR year of his Popedom, either by the example of Xystus the fourth his uncle, or else because in recovering the Pope's dominion by war, our B. Lady of Loreto had obtained for him the help which he desired, he began to adorn her House to the uttermost of his ability. And first of all he thought good to impress the ancient report of the sacred house more deeply in the hearts of mortal men, with Pontifical authority, as a thing most effectual to increase the religion of the place itself. Therefore in the beginning of his first Breve, 
The Bull & testimony of julius the 2.  recounting the Decrees of his predecessors, very honourable to the house of Loreto, of Urban the 6. of Bonifacius the 9 and Martin the 5. & then relating the cause of so great devotion to the House of Loreto, he saith that it is the Chamber of our B. Lady (as it is piously believed, and the report goeth) where she was conceived, where she was brought up, where by the salutation of the Angel she conceived and nourished Christ: which House since that time being consecrated by the Apostles, first by miracle departed out of Nazareth, then out of the wood infested with thieves into the hill of the two brothers; from thence by reason of the brother's discord, into the hill where at this present it standeth. And afterward declaring that he was bound to adorn the House of Loreto with no less care than Paul the second, or Xistus the fourth (whose worthy benefits towards the same were well known to all) he confirmeth their gifts and immunities, & rceiving the House of Loreto into the protection of the Sea Apostolic, 
The benefits of julius the 2.  calleth it the Pope's Chapel, commanding that divine service should be celebrated there with folemne rites, in like manner, as in the Pope's Chapel at Rome. He also privileged all the Ministers of the Church of Loreto, to be of the Pope's family and retinue with as much prerogative as the best: and ordained a Governor over Loreto to be chosen by the Pope himself, to whom he gave mixed authority. From which time the town of Loreto, 
The town of Loreto is exempted from the iurisdietion of other Cities  being exempted out of the jurisdiction of Recanati, began to be free of itself. Moreover he gave commandment that ●●ey, which brought provision of victuals, or other vendible things to Loreto, should be freed of portage and toll. And straightly ordained that none should pilfer, neither the Donaries, nor the money which was offered to our B. Lady of Loreto, under the pain of excommunication, Latae Sententiae. For about that time I find that the sacred House was enriched, not only with money, but also with gifts. George Monachus of Padua, 
The gift of George Monachus  brought for a gift a silver Image of our B. Lady of Loreto of five pound weight. Cardinal Tranensis an other of the same substance & form, but of double weight And others brought other Donaries not needful to be rehearsed.   

A noble woman is cured of the Palsy. CHAP. X.  
THIS time was also memorable for miracles; whereof that was the chiefest which fell in the year 1508. The king of Naples had a certain person of his Council called Longus, 
Bern. Cyril.  famous for many notable things, whose wife being a woman of great account, & also called Longa by the surname of her husband, was so taken in all her body, and tormented with such bitter pain, that she lead a most miserable life, more like to death then life: who at last rejecting the help of Physicians, entreated her husband that she might be carried to Loreto, When she came thither, she requested her son-in-law (who accompanied her in that journey) to procure a certain Mass to be said in the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, agreeable to her purpose, the beginning whereof is, Repleatur os meum laud: Let my mouth be filled with praise: in which is recited the gospel of the palseyman whom Christ our Saviour did cure: which being assigned for the friday in Whitsun week, was not the proper of that time, seeing that day was passed long since; but Longa desired that votive Mass. She had scarce given this commandment to her son-in-law, when she herself (her son-in-law attending on her) was brought into the most sacred noose, & presented before the B. Virgin, not doubting but that our B. Lady's prayers, would be profitable unto her. Behold, before her son-in-law could fullsill his mothers-in-lawe command, a strange Priest came to the Altar, who beginning divine service with this Introite, Let my mouth be filled with praise, struck her into so great admiration, that she remained a while dismayed therewith. But presently turning to her son-in-law (who was not yet gone to procure that Mass, but now prepared to go) stay, said she, it is bootless for thee to go, for this is the very Mass which I desired. And when it was come to that place of the gospel, He said to the sick of the palsy, I say to thee arise: a wonderful thing to be spoken and seen, the Palsy woman perceiving, that by a certain supernatural grace, her body was suddenly cured, & her soul replenished with unwonted sweetness, arose presently out of her chair with greatioy, leaving all amazed at the strangeness of the thing; with flowing tears of ●oy made no end of thanks giving to the B. Virgin. And when Mass was done, went on foot to her lodging to the great astonishment of all her acquaintance, who were present at the miracle of so great a thing. At which time the Duke of Termero being by chance at Loreto with a chief company of horsemen, to go to the war of Lombardie, as julius the second had appointed, & knowing Longa, & her incurable disease very well, and also seeing her go on her feet, was first amazed at the novelty of the thing: but presently being moved with so evident a miracle, he joined with her in praising Almighty God. And eftsoons a new wonder made the miracle itself most evident. For the Priest who had said Mass to Longa, being long and much sought for, was not to be found; that you may believe, he was sent by miracle, to be the minister of the heavenly work. And Longa having obtained her vow, returned to Naples, purposing to consecrate to Alm. God, her health restored unto her by miracle. Whereupon building a Monastery of sacred Virgins at Naples, she betook herself to the service of incurable diseases, whiles Raymund Cardona was Viceroy of Naples.   

Pope julius the second finisheth, and fortifieth the Church of Loreto. CHAP. XI.  
MOREOVER julius granted many other benefits, to the former which are declared and set down in a long Breve not needful to be rehearsed. And when he had graced the house of Loreto with these immunities, he was very careful to fortify the same. Therefore beginning the works of peace with no less courage, than he waged his huge and troublesome war, he prepared not to build up, but also to fortify the Church of Loreto, which Paul the 2. had begun; the finishing whereof was hindered by divers accidents and misfortunes. Considering therefore that this most sacred House (not only illustrious for her wealth, but also for the fame of her sanctimony) was seated in an unfenced town, as a prey to the avarice of soldiers and Barbarians, by the advise and help of Bramant the notable Architect, he began to forward this his intended work by Hierome Roboreo Patron of Loreto. And Hierome thinking it the office and honour of his family, to adorn the House of Loreto with all his might, built & fortified the Church in manner or a Castle: for the very chapels themselves are made like to bulwarks; and round about in the top of the Church walls, are conveyed little pinnacles and passages under the roof, that on every side the soldiers may pass safely up & down for defence thereof. To the beholder a far of, it hath the form, rather of a Castle then of a Church. And a little hill doth help the fortification thereof, in the top whereof it is seated, specially on that side which standeth towards the sea. The body of the Church doth stand on twelve great Columns, like to pillars, whereof six on each side support the vauted roof. And the said body hath also on either side, as it were, two wings, in which are erected six little Chapels, answering to one another between the pillars Also about the head of the Church, are placed seven greater chapels, among the which are four Vestries, wherein all the Donaries of Loreto are reserved. Under the those, which is as the head of the Church, the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin hath the most principal place, and on every side perspicuous, many cairo chapels of admirable workmanship, as we have said, erected round about.   

Pope julius the second, is protected from a great shot, and adorneth the House of Loreto with gifts. CHAP. XII.  
MEAN time by an evident miracle, the Pope was more enkindled to honour & salute the B. Virgin of Loreto: for going to Bologna to repress the commotion of the Bentivolians he came to Loreto; and the very day of the B. Virgin's nativity said Mass in her native Chapel. After Mass with solemn pomp, he went into a pulpit prepared of purpose for him, where blessing the people, who flocked thither, more than usually, by reason of the Pope's coming, he granted remission of sins, unto all that rightly visited the sacred House of Loreto that day. Some there be, who writ, that julius made a vow to the B. Virgin at that time, going to prosecute the Tyrants with godly and just war: and truly the event thereof and the donaries which he sent, for the victory obtained, do testify the same. julius therefore coming to Bologna, 
Vicciar. lib. 9 On. fr. in ●ul. 2.  expelled the Bentivolians, & pacified the City. And when he had taken Faventia, Forolivio, Ravenna and other Cities and towns of the Pope's Dominions by force, & seeing that the siege of Mirandula was prolonged by the negligence of his captains, by a new example, he himself went into the Tents, to animate the Captains and soldiers with his presence. Where, as he was consulting of the war with the Cardinal in a Pavilion, he escaped manifest danger by heavenly protection. For an iron bullet as big as a man's head, being suddenly shot out of a great brazen piece by the enemy, overthrew the Consistory, but hurt the Pope nothing at all, nor any that was with him in Council. Whereupon the Pope confessed, that he was wholly bound to the B. Virgin of Loreto, for that good benefit, either because he had made a vow unto her, when he went unto the war, or else for that at the first noise of the piece, he invocated the said B. Virgin of Loreto. Having therefore taken Mirandula with honour, and gotten other victories, he came to Loreto to perform his vow, and when he had given hearty thanks to God and his B. mother, he commanded that the bullet should be reserved in the most sacred Chapel, for a monument to posterity, how great danger he eschewed, by the protection of the B. Virgin of Loreto: which was hung up on the left wall of the Altar, commonly called the Epistle side, there now remaining to be seen. But afterward julius the Pope, that he might not be only devout, but also grateful to the B. Virgin, began carefully to adorn the Church of Loreto. And thinking it best, to enrich the high Altar with sacred ornature, he sent from the City an excellent suit for the Altar, of tissue cloth of gold, a silver Cross of forty pound weight parcel guilt and carved with excellent workmanship; two Candlesticks of a cubit and a half, of the same substance & work, of 26. pound weight. And in the round base of the Cross, there is an inscription, for no small token that the Pope's victories were gotten by the help of the B. Virgin mother of God.  
POPE JULIUS THE SECOND DEDICATED IT TO THE B. VIRGIN OF LORETO THE YEAR M.D.X.  
IN THIS SIGN THOU SHALT OVERCOME.  
But julius thinking these gifts not sufficient, gave also two ornaments of blue velvet for the Altar, (called frontlets) adorned with gold, precious stones, and embroidery: wherewith he sent ornature for the Ministers, a Mitre of excellent workmanship, and other Pontifical vestments for Popes or Bishops to use in time of Mass. Besides he gave and dedicated to the B. Virgin of Loreto purple tapestry to adorn the walls of the Church, and many other gifts.   

A girl of seven years of age, is brought to Loreto by the B. Virgin herself. CHAP. XIII.  
MUCH about the same time that the B. Virgin of Loreto defended the Pope in the war, she in time of peace, made sure to herself a poor girl, by an unwonted miracle. One Sabine, of no mean village in the country of Picene, (called Roccha Contrada) had a daughter named Alexandra seven years of age, who kept his sheep not far from the town; & whiles the sheep were feeding, the girl was accustomed to pray to almighty God with great devotion under trees, whereby before she was ●ullie of age, she dedicated herself to Almighty God by miracle; & by the iustruction and teaching of so good a master, persevering still in her prayer to reverence the mother of God with great devotion, a Lady appeared suddenly unto her in heavenly brightness (without doubt it was the mother of God) who taking the girl by the hand, commanded her to follow her. A wonderful thing to be spoken, the Queen of heaven herself brought the little maid to the House of Loreto, thirty miles from that place, and when she had replenished her with great joy, at the sight of her Image and of her House, she brought her back again to her sheep. Whereupon Alexandra had a great desire to see that place & sight again (though she was ignorant what the House and Virgin was:) for when the tasted sweetness of the House of Loreto, once entered into her mind, with flowing tears she never ceased to entreat and importune Sabine her father to bring her to that house which shined with so many lights (for otherwise she could not describe the place) where that most beautiful Virgin dwelled. The father jested at his daughter's request, either thinking it to be a childish toy, or else ignorant what place she described: but not long after it happened, that Sabine with his family pilgrimaging to Loreto, Alexandra strait acknowledged the place, triumphed and exulted for joy; & turning to her father; Behold father, said she, this is the house, whither that most beautiful Virgin, clothed in white brought me: hither I desired to return, and this is the sight that I was so willing to enjoy again. Whereat the father was amazed, but pondering in his mind the exceeding devotion of his daughter to the mother of God, he perceived that she was dear to the B. Virgin herself; specially seeing the mother of God drew her unto her from her tender years, by a certain unwonted course. For which cause, he neither foreslowed to further the piety of his daughter, nor thought good for him to conceal this wonder. And Alexandra herself, when she came to riper years, told it often to godly men, who afterward related it to others, & to me myself. This miracle happened the 7. year of this age: neither in vain. For Alexandra being trained in this Noviceship, lived always a Virgin, and lead a most holy life, until she was 90. years of age, every year revisiting the B. Virgin of Loreto. And so great was the fame of her sanctimony, that she was made Abbess of a Monastery of Virgins, in the town Montabodo, where she flourished not only with virtues, but also with miracles.   

near to the Porch of the Church of Loreto, the Pope's Palace is begun, by julius the II. and the carving of the most sacred House is purposed. CHAP. XIIII.  
JULIUS using all diligence to finish and adorn the House of Loreto, was easily induced to greater expenses. For when the most sacred Chapel was fenced with the walls of the Church, he thought good to add a fortification to the town itself, against the assault and sudden incursions of the enemy. Hierome Roboreo Patron of Loreto of worthy memory, who undertook that work lately departed this life, having scarce laid the first foundations thereof. Therefore julius the Pope, prosecuting those worthy beginnings by means o the said Bramant (whom we mentioned before) began the Pope's Palace near to the Church, being a great and a magnificent work, chiefly designed for the entertainment of noble men. The form whereof is such. That part of the Palace (where the entrance is into the square Court) being right against the Church, doth compass it with two wings as it were with arms. The four angles have as many turrets. All the whole work doth bear the true form of a square Castle, having the Church for a fortress. And at this day with the continual labour and expenses of many years, the one half thereof is hardly finished. Nether did julius, 
Hier. Ang. Bern. Cyril,  whiles the Pope's Palace was in hand, desist to adorn the Church itself. A Choir for the singers, made for the ornament of the place, the excellent Organs of music set forth with stately work and gold, two bells notable for bigness and form, and the foundations of the Bellfray were the worthy works of julius the second. When he had adorned the Church, he prepared costly marble enough to garnish the most majestical Cell of the B. Virgin on the outside: which doubtless had been the greatest of all his works, if speedy death had not even then prevented his designments, Almighty God reserving that excellent praise to another. And it is not to be esteemed the least, which in this kind was the last of his mortal works. 
The gift of Antony Perotto.  Peter Antony Perotto, General of the Siluestrines, bearing great affection & devotion to our B. Lady of Loreto, gave the Abbey of S. Laurence near to Loreto (to wit in the territory of Castro Ficardo) with all the villages, houses, meadows, fields, oliveries, and woods thereunto belonging, to the Church of Loreto, with the Pope's approbation, the 12. year of this age. Whereupon a few days before his death, in behalf of the House of Loreto, he confirmed the Donation of that Abbey, with his Pontifical Breve, and ordained Perotto himself Governor of Loreto, supposing (as it fell out) that he, who took contentment to increase the wealth of Loreto, would also be careful to preserve & defend the same when it was increased.   

The Queens of Naples visit the House of Loreto CHAP. XV.  
POPE Leo the X. succeeding julius not only in the Apostolic Chair, but also in his good purpose, desired nothing more, than to yield to none in honouring the sacred House of Loreto. And to manifest this his desire, God gave fit occasion in the very beginning of his seigne. For at that time the fame of the celebrity of the House of Loreto, coming to Naples, provoked the two joanes of Arragon the elder, and the younger (by the commonalty called the Queens of Naples, because they were descended of the royal blood) to visit the Church, which was glorified with so many miracles. Who with a great train passing through good part of the Kingdom of Naples, and coming by Abruzzo into Picene, were received of the people with great joy and preparation, which way soever they went. At which time the munificence of Leo was very notable: for in all the towns of the Pope's dominions, through which they were to pass, he commanded that these Queens should be received with princely entertainment; not so much for their own honour, as for the celebrity of the House of Loreto: and granted full remission of sins, not only to the Queens themselves, but likewise to all that resorted to Loreto at their coming thither, and rightly reverenced the sacred House of our B. Lady the same day. The 14. year of this age, those Queens came to visit the House of Loreto: and in Picene there is extant a famous monument thereof. For the report goeth, that by this occasion in the territory of Monte-Sancto (a town between Loreto and Firmo) the fair beaten way was paved, which at this day is called the way of the Queens, being so called in time passed of these Queens, in whose honour it was made.   

Pope Leo the X. adorneth the Sacred House with ample Decrees. CHAP. XVI.  
AFTERWARDS Leo commanded, that all the Indusgences, Immunities, 
The benefits of Leo the X.  and benefits of julius the second, & of the precedent Popes, granted to the House of Loreto, should be ratified with an express Breve: which done, he carefully added more to more, abundantly. For he made the Church of Loreto a Collegiate Church, giving it the seal and other dignities of such Churches: where he ordained 12. Canons (out of which number the Archpriest, & the keeper of the befoved House were to be chosen) as many resident Priests (called Mansioners) and six clergy men to be adjutors in the Quyre, assigning to every one his yearly pension, according to a rate. Moreover to the House of Loreto, he granted all the Indulgences, which Rome enjoyeth in the Stations of the Churches, that at the same time strangers might gain in one Church at Loreto, which at Rome may be gained in many. We thought good to insert the worthy poem of his Breve. Recalling to mind the great & almost the innumerable cominuall benefits, 
The testimony of Leo the X.  which by the intercession of the most glorious Virgin, her only bengotten the Almighty, worketh at the Church of Loreto, to many of Christ's, faithful, in what place soever they are afflicted, with misfortunes and griefs, flying unto the said Church of Loreto, with good disposition only of mind: we hold it just and due, to maintain and preserve the aforesaid Church of Loreto unblemished, not only in the ancient graces of former grants, but also daily to adorn her with new gifts, liberalities, and bounties of prerogatives. Then abrogating the summer fairs of Ancona, of Pisaurus, and of other bordering towns, he commanded that at Recanati only, in the month of September, (to honour the day of our B. Lady's birth) the mart should be celebrated and kept. News of the fair of Recanati, and of her immunities being sent round about, not only to Christian, but also to barbarous nations to allure people from all places unto it, provoked the merchants of all nations and trades, to flock to Recanati, to the denounced mart; as the Italians, Dalmatians, Germans, Flemings, Grecians, Armenians, jews and Turks, lately expelled out of Spain. Whereby it is evident that many merchants of every sort, either upon devotion, or else for the wonders of the place, (whereunto the nearness invited them) came to visit the House of Loreto. Neither were any prohibited to come unto it, saving Turks and jews obstinate in their ancient superstition, to the end, Margarites should not be cast before swine. Truly we understood, that the Grecians and Armenians (though most of them were schismatics) strived with the Latins in devotion towards the B. Virgin; for in the very entrance of the Church, many pulling of their shoes, and listing up both hands and eyes to heaven, approached in that manner to the most sacred House. Whither assoon as they came, they fell down at the threshold most religiously; then prostrating their bodies on the ground, they adored God and his B. Mother, and to the presence of the B. Virgin and of the Altar, crept on their knees, earnestly invocating the names of jesus and Mary. And this celebrity of the mart of Recanati, commenced under Leo, continued afterward many years, with great increase of glory to Loreto. But because he would omit no occasion whereby he might seem to honour the House of Loreto, at last he ordained that vows made to visit our B. Lady of Loreto, by any means should not be changed into other works of piety; whereby this vow was added, to those five, commonly known to be exempted. 
another testimony of Leo the X.  And the Breve is graced with a worthy poem, which because it is to the excellent praise of the B. Virgin of Loreto, we thought good to relate, As it is lawful for none, to be silent in the praises of the most glorious Virgin Mary the mother of God; so to declare them, we think none sufficient. For seeing there is found no surer a refuge, for the wretched, nor more effectual for sinners in the sight of God, worthily & with all the affections of soul and mind devoutly acknowledging, that she is first to be worshipped in heaven, then to be reverenced every where on earth: we think it sit that the places dedicated to her name, should be adorned with all care, but those chief, which the B. Virgin herself, accompanied with Quires of Angels, hath chosen to herself, and daily in the same, worketh almost innumerable miracles, for the help & secure of Christ's faithful. Among which, by the consent, testimony, and devotion of all, her seat of Loreto, celebrated with fame, and most honoured with the concourse of devout people, is worthily esteemed the first. For when the most B. Virgin, by the appointment of Almighty God (as credible persons have delivered) translated her Image and her Chamber, from Nazareth, that she might place it, first at Flumen, a town of Dalmatia, then in the territory of Recanati, in a wooddte place, and again in a certain hill in the same territory, belonging to particular persons; last of all in the high way (where now it remaineth) she chose herself a seat, placing it there by the hands of Angels, where the highest worketh innumerable miracles by her merits. For which cause many of the Roman Bishops, our Predecessors, but chief Paul the second, Xystus the fourth, and julius the second, of happy memory, having great reason to be exceedingly devoted to the sacred Virgin, to make the Christian people more acceptable to Almighty God and his B. Mother, adorned with divers, but chief with spiritual gifts, the Church of Loreto, which hath increased by so great a miracle, and daily doth increase. And the rest that followeth.   

The sacred House is adorned with worthy ornaments and Donaries. CHAP. XVII.  
LEO the Pope would not have the House of Loreto to be more adorned with Apostolical letters, 
The ornaments of Leo the X.  then with Pontifical riches: for in this mean time he speedily forwarded the building of the Church and of the sacred House of Loreto: adorned two Oratories of the Church with turrets, which he caused to be garnished about with chequer work, and applied his mind to adorn the most sacred Cell itself: yet he thought it not good to beautify the sacred walls on the inside, that there might be no other ornature in them, besides the very walls, which the habitation and touchings of Christ and the B. Virgin did enough and abundantly adorn. Endeavouring therefore to adorn the most sacred Chapel magnificently on the outside (and the stuff lately prepared by julius for that purpose provoking him on) he conceived in his mind so sumptuous an ornament, as might well beseem the B. Virigin Mother of God, the Roman Bishop the vicar of Christ, and the majesty and religion of the place itself, as far forth as the imbecility and weakness of man could attain unto. Whereupon he committed the drawing of the model of this work to Sansovino a notable Architect & Statuary of those times, commanding him to deliver his own opinion thereof, for that he purposed to go about such a piece of work, as in a small subject he might happily excel all the magnificence of his time. The industry of the wise Architect, did not fail the Princely mind of the Pope, for he drew such a form, as was answerable to Leo his wishes, who was as diligent to finish the work itself, as to desire and approve the model. But because there was not enough of the richest marble, and the form described required great pieces of the same, he commanded that they should be fetched from Carrara (which is a quarry of white marble of most estimation in all Liguria) & not regarding the charges, he took order that Ligurian marble should be laid into vessels, to be brought about a long circuit (for it must needs be conveyed by the Inferun, and Superum seas, almost all the coast of Italy, as long as it is) which at last being unladen either at Ancona, or else at the haven of Recanati, were carried to Loreto in carts, where they were polished with the antic work of the Greeks' and Romans, by the rarest workmen of that age, hired with great expenses. Mean while Leo bestowed no small benefit on the Church of Loreto, 
The gift of Leo the X.  to increase the majesty and religion of the place. For to make the representation of the Seat of Loreto more majestical, 
God. Laur.  he made Peter Antony Perotto the Governor, when he celebrated Mass, the more venerable not only with Episcopal, but also with other ornature and attire: and granted unto him, when he said Mass, to bless the people with Episcopal authority and privilege. Neither was Leo more careful to adorn the Prelate of Loreto, than the Altar with Pontifical gifts. Four silver Candlesticks of a cubit and a half, parcel guilt, and engraven with curious work, about 50. pound weight, & a square Canopy, were the worthy Donaries of Leo. About the same time the House of Loreto was honoured with other gifts of most noble persons. 
Of Antony Leiva & others.  Antony Leiva, General of the Spanish Army, sent for a gift, a vestment of damask for the Priest, curiously wrought with curled gold. The Queen of Hungary, her own Image of silver, as if she were praying, of XXX. pound weight. The marquess of Mantua, vestments for the Priest & Ministers sacrificing with solemnity, made of silver and gold. And others presented other Donaries; who although they were noble personages: yet they desired to have their names concealed in their gi' 'tis, of which these be the chiefest. A silver statue of the B. Virgin, with the Image of the most sweet child JESUS, holding a globe in his hand, of 8. pound weight. To this was added an other of equal weight & like fashion, differing only in this, that Christ the little Child doth sit in his mother's lap, holding a pear in his right hand. Besides there is an other Image of our B. Lady pourtraited in silver of XI. pound weight. And also an other of like weight, with the ensigns of the Imperial Eagle, that it may not obscurely appear whence it was sent.   

A Dalmatian Priest cometh to Loreto, carrying up, with his hand, his bowels pulled out of his belly. CHAP. XVIII.  
MUCH about the same time, a wonderful thing & more credible for the infinite power of God, then for the strangeness of the fact, made the House of Loreto much more illustrious in all the whole world. A Dalmatian Priest, a man of true simplicity, and of great devotion to the B. Virgin of Loreto, being taken by chance by the Turks, and by all subtle means urged to renounce his religion, would in no wise admit such wicked persuasions, neither into ear nor mind; but greatly disdained those importunate wretches, and the more to offend them, freely called on Christ and likewise on Marie: which they stomaking, & demanding why he repeated those names so often; he answered, because they be fixed in my bowels. Whereupon the Turks threatened, that they would pull forth his very bowels, unless in continent he would abjure Christ and Marie, You are deceived, said he, my bowels indeed you may take from me, but Christ and Marie you cannot take from me. Then in great rage, they assaulted the Priest with a drawn sword, who calling on the B. Virgin of Loreto, made a vow unto her, that with the first opportunity, he would go to Loreto, to visit her, if life would give him leave. Which speech did more enkindle the enraged Turks: for compassing him about, and cutting and opening his breast, they drew out his bowels, tearing them from the uppermost parts, and delivered them to himself now half dead, and by & by, as they supposed, ready to fall down, scorning him in this manner. Go, make haste, & carry thy bowels in which thou sayst Marie of Loreto doth adhere, unto her, as thou hast vowed. And albeit it exceed all credit, which we are now to deliver: yet neither the power nor the goodness of Almighty God. For the Priest who was ready to die (God prolonging death and giving him sufficient strength) began to set forward, and speedily dispatching a journey of many days, came to Loreto, carrying his bowels in his hand. Which way soever he went, great resort was made unto him, with desire to see and to know the matter. Whereupon the Priest (but chiefly to the ministers of the Church of Loreto) showing his open and empty breast, & his bowels, which he held up with his hand, declared briefly the whole matter, leaving them all amazed, with the admiration of so great a thing. And when he had given hearty thanks to the B. Virgin, & armed himself with the comfortable succours of Confession, & of the holy Eucharist, in the sight and embracements of the Mother of God (as we may believe) he yielded up his soul. The very bowels of the Dalmatian Priest, were hung up hard by the most sacred Cell for strangers to behold, and as soon as they were consumed with corruption, counterfeit bowels made of wood, and affiged in the same place, remained there many years for a monument of that miracle. But because the rude people, which came to the Church of Loreto, busied their minds in such spectacles, & reverenced the mother of God with less care, than they ought to have done, they were at last removed thence. Yet in time of Pope Paul the III. by occasion of strengthening the pillars which support the those, the rafter on which they did hang, being by chance cast down, it was decreed, that a Priest holding up his bowels with his hand, and a short narration of the whole matter, should be expressed in a table, to preserve the memory of so great a miracle to posterity, and set up in the Church for all to behold, which at this day is there to be seen. And the miracle itself is so witnessed, that it is wickedness to doubt thereof. For many do yet live, who affirm that themselves have seen the bowels, which were made of wood, and have heard many of the Inhabitants report, that they had seen the very bowels of the Dalmatian Priest, when they were fresh and in their natural state.   

divers assaults of the Turks are repelled from the House of Loreto by divine power. CHAP. XIX.  
ABOUT the same time, the B. Virgin showed by undoubted means, how pleasing the House of Loreto was unto her. 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  Selime the Turkish Emperor, and the Nephew of Mahomet, coming to spoil the ever-unuiolated treasures of the Cell of Loreto, attempted so great a wickedness, with no better success, than did Mohomet his uncle long before. For being puffed up with his own, and with the victories of his ancestors, he had almost all the seas pestered with his navies, purposing to subdue all Europe, and the farthest parts of the West, unto his Empire. Whereupon through his command, a great navy of Pirates arrived in Italy, & after they had ransacked the shores of Dalmatia and Apulia, they sailed into Picene, hoping to get the spoil of Loreto; where landing their men, and taking the Castle of the haven of Recanati, they desired and defaced the houses with slaughter and with fire, and seeing that none did bear arms against them, the miscreants made haste to Loreto itself. But they quickly perceived that the Sacred House (forsaken of mortal aid) was protected & guarded with heavenly defendants: for the very sight of the House of Loreto, struck so great dread into them, that out of hand foregoing their attempt, they retired back unto their navy, nothing at all doubting, but that very House, dear to heaven itself, was defended by the celestial power. And Sclime the author of this attempted mischeise, not long after perished of the canker, miserably consumed by the wrath of God, with a most filthy and loathsome disease. Yet this misfortunate end of Sclime, did not repress the boldness of others: for afterwards certain that had been Captives in Turkey, escaping by flight, and coming to Loreto to perform their vows to the B. Virgin, reported that the Archpyrats whom themselves had served, sundry times set forth towards Loreto with a furnished navy, intending to rob and to spoil the Church. But assoon as they came in sight of the most sacred House, they were brought into such sudden fear by miracle, that they were compelled to retire, confessing indeed, that there was some secret divine power: whereby audacity turned to veneration. For when this wonder was diwlgated and known among the Barbarians, from that time the skulking Pirates which rob on the shores of Picene, durst scarce attempt any hostility, in sight of the House of Loreto, much less approach to ransack the House itself. Once only two Turkish Galleys presuming to take a prey out of the territories of Loreto, presently perceived, that the B. Virgin Mother of God did revenge her own goods. For the same day being taken by Canaletto Captain of the Venetian fleet, they were hanged: all the prey recovered: & the good of Loreto established by the death of those barbarous people.   

It deceiveth the avarice of the Christian army. CHAP. XX  
ABOUT the same time by the protection of Almighty God the House of Loreto remained untouched, not only from the power of the Barbarians, but also from the covetousness of Christian soldiers. Francis Maria Duke of Urbine, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  being lately deprived of his Signiory by Leo the X. and afterward recovering it again by arms, voluntarily overran the Country of Picene, with great spoil, to revenge, as he gave out, the wrong the Pope had done him. His army was levied of the risfraffe of many nations, among whom there was neither manners, nor common language, and a prey was more esteemed than religion; so that by the Dukes own commandment, it could neither be well governed, nor by any means persuaded from committing of sacrilege. For many of the Captains and Centurions having long and vehemently desired the sacred treasures of Loreto, dealt by messengers secretly among them serves to take them by violence, and of purpose stayed all night at Monte-Faltrano not far from Loreto, purposing to ransack the House of Loreto destitute of defence, as soon as the day appeared. The wicked designment of the army was not unknown to the Duke, both godly and wise. For which cause he laboured hard by interpreters to avert the desperate Captains of those barbarous people from their wicked determination, and forced to hinder their lewd purpose by his Italian companies: he did all that he could, he laboured to his uttermost, to turn their inflamed desire of robbing rather an other way. But the ears of all being dease and stopped with avarice, the greater part (as many times it happeneth) overcame the better, and sending before their scouts, they themselves began to march forward before it was clear day. The Duke dissuaded them again, and intermingling threats with fair speeches, requested them to desist from that sacrilegious journey: when nothing prevailed, he besought them (if they were resolved to go to Lore●o) to change their minds to the contrary, and to go to the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin mother of God for devotion sake, as all others did: If they did otherwise, he did not only threaten them with his, but also with the wrath of God, setting before them the late examples of the Turks. But having their minds filled with fury and covetousness, and rejecting all good Counsel, they went forward, vehemently desiring to lay hands on the spoil, which already (in hope & opinion) they had wholly devoured. The Duke followed the Army, which he could not rule, to mitigate the sacrilege that he could not hinder. But the protection of the B. Virgin was not wanting to her most sacred Cell. For the scouts who were sent before, approaching near to Loreto, and vaunting for joy to see that all was clear, suddenly a multitude of fierce wolves (that savage beasts might repress the savageness of men) rushed forth of the next wood, and as it were in battle order gave an assault on the forerunners; devoured and tore in pieces most of them, frighted out of their wits with the sudden terror; & made the rest to fly, more desirous to save themselves, then to seek after the prey which they went about. Who assoon as they came to the first squadron, half dead with fear, with running, and with wearisomeness and recovering some sparkle of life, after so great fear, they opened to the fellows of their wickedness, the cause of their desperate flight and terror; advised them again and again, to beware what they did: that God was the Protector and the revenger of the sacred House of Loreto, that so great an army of wolves, and such huge shapes of savage beasts, came not out of that wood, but by miracle were let lose on the robbers of that holy House: neither were they to fight so much with the army of those beasts, as with God and his Saints. But the furious guiders of the Army, scoffing with soldierlike terms at the terror of the scouts, as vain, made haste to lay hands on their intended prey. But in very deed assoon as the sacred House showed itself, suddenly great fear, came on all the army, and like distracted people all began to tremble, with the dread that God stroke into their hearts. Whereby their fury was so appeased, that the authors of the wickedness remembered themselves. and either the wrath of God, or else the religion of the Church so affrighted them, that at one instant they desisted from their premeditated theft. But lest they might return again to execute their intended purpose, a new miracle happened to them, before this astonishment was gone. For when much of the day (as it is said) was spent, a cloud fell suddenly from heaven, which by little and little thickening about the Church, took away the sight thereof, when notwithstanding all the places thereabout, were bright with the sunshine: which once being cast before the soldiers eyes, made their minds immooucable, and filled them with so great dread that they fell down on their knees, and turning presumption into piety, intended to go to Loreto to pacify the wrath of God, and his B. mother. Whither assoon as they came, all (and chief the Captains of the Companies) with great devotion went into the sacred House of Loreto, and kneeling down besought pardon of their intended wickedness. Besides they honoured the B. Virgin with gifts, whom they purposed to have rob: so that they began their journey with a mad attempt, but concluded it with a happy ending. The Duke of Urbine being exceeding glad at the unexpected issue of their wickedness, gave hearty thanks to God & the B. Virgin for the averted sacrilege; and forth with in the first entrance of the most majestical Cell, hung up his armour, in memory of so great a miracle, and vowed to withdraw his forces out of the territory of Picene. Neither did he fail therein. For in continent the terrible army was with drawn, whereby both the House of Loreto, and the Country of Picene, were delivered from fear of ransacking and spoiling by a worthy miracle.   

The town of Loreto is walled about by Pope Leo the X. and the worthy work of the carving, is hastened on. CHAP. XXI.  
THE rumour of the manifold dangers of Loreto, and of the heavenly protection of the B. Virgin, excited Pope Leo to provide, that hereafter the like dangers might be withstood & resisted by the endeavours of man, especially because then enterprise of the Pope's Palace, intended for a fortification of the sacred House, was so great a work, that the continual labour of many years, could hardly finish it. Therefore misliking a thing of so long expectation, and the better to resist the sudden incurfions of the enemies, he compassed Loreto about with ditches, rampires, bulwarks, and walls, the XX, year of this age: and planted there many brazen pieces for defence of the town, and to keep of the enemy. So the Church of Loreto being compassed about with the fortifications of the town, by surderance of a little hill, even a far of, hath the true form of a fortified Castle. The fame whereof did not only allure Pilgrims to visit it, but also the borderers to inhabit it, and quailed the Barbarians & others, from attempting any mischief hereafter against it. In this mean season Cardinal Roboreo Patron of Loreto departing this life, 
Cardinal Bibiana ● made Patron of Loreto.  Bernard Cardinal Bibiana was made Patron of Loreto, whose substitute the Pope appointed julianus Rodulphus, the Prior of Capua; who at Leo his command (because lodging for the Nobles was already prepared) forthwith bulltan Hospital for the poor Pilgrims. And when the fortifications of Loreto were finished, the Pope caused a bell of huge bigness to be cast, to wit of twenty thousand pound weight, and called it Loreto, by the name of the town. And being always very mindful of the worthy ornament, which he endeavoured to leave about the most sacred Chapel, he was most careful to solicit Sansovino, and the rest of the Artificers with letters, rewards, and promises, to finish so famous a work whiles he lived. The letter which Leo sent to Sansovino concerning that matter is yet extant, 
The third testimony of Leo X.  the beginning whereof, because it maketh to the worthy praise of the House of Loreto, we thought good to relate in this place. Thus it is. For the immensive and infinite benefits, bestowed on mankind, and cheisly on us ourself, by the immaculate Mother of the high God our Redeemer, we devoutly and piously believe, that the most sacred Church of Loreto (venerable throughout the whole world) was the little Cell of the B. Virgin, whiles she carried the burden of our flesh, and the place of the message of the Angelical salutation, and of her conceiving of the divine issue, which she was to bring into this world, and in which the B. Virgin doth daily show her self a very bountisull giver of graces, speedily condescending to the vows of all saith full people: and the rest that followeth: the sum whereof is this. The most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, is worthy indeed to be had in great honour; therefore with speed and might, we must endeavour to dispatch her ornament with all expedition. Notwithstanding whiles Leo lived, the finishing of that work could not be accomplished: for truly the kind of the embosment, and the abundance of those most excellent statues, required more than one Pope's reign. After Leo, Adrian the VI was chosen, a man otherwise godly and learned, but either the troubles of the time, or else the shortness of his reign (for it was scarce a year) was the cause, that he lest almost no sign of his devotion towards the House of Loreto; specially because he was wholly employed in building of a sumptuous & a stately Church at Rome, for the Flemings, (of which nation he was) dedicated to our B. Lady surnamed Dell' Anima. But how propense his good will towards the House of Loreto was likely to have been, if life had permitted him, his letters written to the Governor of Loreto, do plainly show, and the benefits, immunities and Indulgences of the precedent Popes which he confirmed. And although I find but few particulars of the donaries which were given to Loreto at this time, because they were negligently recorded, yet they were not altogether wanting. For there is extant a memorial of Donaries, albeit the names of them that gave them are not set down, because (as I believe) they themselves would have them suppressed, that they might be more grateful to God and his B. Mother. Notwithstanding I find the particular monuments of some. john Baptista Caraffa of Naples, john Caponaccia of Padua, Philip Barbo of Venice, Laurence an Hungarian, Duke of Vilaco, and Vrsino Vrsinio a Roman, dedicated every one his own silver Image to our B. Lady of Loreto, and the marquess of Mantua brought worthy ornaments of gold and silver for the Priest and ministers, celebrating with solemnity.   

Pope Clement the seventh, doth adorn the House of Loreto with Decrees, and continueth the adorning of the most sacred Cell. CHAP. XXII.  
AFTER Adrian, Clement the VII. Cousin-german to Leo the X. was created Pope, whose Pope doom, being disquieted with domestical & foreign wars, not only the ransacking of the City of Rome, but also his devotion towards the House of Loreto, made very famous. For in the beginning of his reign he esteemed nothing more, then to adorn the House of Loreto with Pontifical Decrees, wherein he might both confirm the ancient, and also bestow new benefits. In this place I cannot omit the beginning of a certain Breve of his, very honourable to the B. Virgin of Loreto, which is thus. Seeing divers of the Roman Bishops, but specially Pope Leo X. of happy memory our Predecessor, and Cousin-german according to the flesh, beholding the mani●old & great miracles, which the highest worketh daily in our Church of our B. Lady of Loreto, & moved with singular devotion and piety at deuers times, granted very many pri●iledges, immunities, and grates to the Church itself, and to the Chapter, Canons, and other persons of the said House: the who have always been singularly devoted towards the B. Virgin (under whose Patronage the said Church was built) and having special care that whatsoever hath been granted in favour of the said Church, should be sasely preserved. And the rest that followeth. Among the benefits of Clement one was, to take from the people of Recanati all jurisdiction over Loreto, if they had any remaining. Also it was no small benefit of his, to promote john Matthew Gibert of Verona, a man famous for learning & virtue, to the Patronship of Loreto, by whom the House of Loreto was furnished and adorned with sacred ornature; with choice Canons, and solemn Ceremonies. The porch of the Bishop's Palace was vaulted: the well which (as we said before Cardinal Roboreo caused to be made in the Cloister) was covered with a roof to the great good both of the inhabitants and of strangers. But above all things Clement was most solicitous and careful to finish the notable ornament of the most majestical chapel, with like magnificence as Leo had begun it. Whereunto he was incensed either with the piety, or else with the honour of his house, that the same family, which had the reputation for undertaking the carved work of the House of Loreto, might also have it for finishing he same. Therefore with great expenses he hired Antony Sangall, Raphaell Baccio, Nicolas Tribulo, and other most famous Statuaries of that time, and commanded that Raynerio Nerusio of Pisa should be overseer of the building of Loreto, but specially of that worthy work, that it might be curiously finished, according to the dignity thereof. When the rich marble was for the most part carved and polished, and the rest in hand, Nerusio beat down the brick walls, which were built for a prop to the sacred Cell, and by miracle put of and removed from the same (as we said before) and laid them aside for the people to behold. Then leaving like space between, to be monument of the old miracle, they thought it best to environ the sacred House with new walls and to cover them with the carved marble, that they might not only adorn the sacred Chapel on the outside, but also support the new vault to be built thereupon, when the old vault and roof was removed and taken down. It pleased the Pope, that the sacred House should be vauted with stone, fearing if that the old arched roof, subject to many lights continually burning should once be fired, it might bring utter destruction to the most sacred Cell. Therefore art required, that deeper foundations and more firm groundworks should be laid to make that worthy and precious work secure on every side from earthquakes. Wherefore lest the sacred house should receive any alteration or detriment, by taking the earth from underneath, in opening the foundations of the new walls, it was bound about with Carpets & ropes, as the use is, and lifted up with strong cables, that it might hang in the air by engines, until the trenches were filled up, and the new foundations raised. At which time it is evident (for the thing was witnessed by the eyes of many) that whiles the earth for these new foundations was digged from under the bottom of the old walls, 
Hier. Trad. Laur.  the dusty and the beaten ground, and the hedge of the next close trodden down, and other signs of the high way, where the sacred House did seat itself, were found, as new monuments of the old miracle. Which many noting and observing, Hierome Angelita himself about the same time, set them down in writing in his History of the B. Virgin of Loreto.   

The Architect presuming to work through the sacred walls, by miracle fell down as dead. CHAP. XXIII.  
AT that time the celebrity of the Church of Loreto beginning to increase, they thought it behoveful that the most sacred House itself, should have more doors; for than there was but one (as we showed before) almost in midst of the wall that standeth towards the north: by which only, all comers and goers had entrance and regress. Therefore in so great a multitude & concourse of strangers, one pressing an other, divers were stifled by thronging and pressing of people, because the last gave no place unto the first, as many times it happeneth. It was thought good therefore (which many long ago did earnestly wish, and Leo the X. had so appointed it, in the model of the outward ornament) that the sacred Cell should be made a thoroughfare, by opening of two doors at the angles of two walls. But assoon as the advise of the Architect was noised abroad, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  in very deed it seemed wickedness, not only to the inhabitants, but even to the Pilgrims themselves, to defile those walls with iron, which the divine providence had preserved safe and untouched for so many ages together. Whereupon many openly pronounced and said, that whosoever would adventure it, would not truly escape unpunished; therefore the fear of God's wrath deterred the masons from undertaking the work; and the event showed that it was no vain imagination. For to Nerusio the Architect himself (going about the same) there happened a thing wonderful to be spoken and seen. For when the masons refused to do it, he himself went to dig through the sacred wall, with greater confidence in his art, than reverence to the place. But assoon as he had forced his hammer against the sacred wall, suddenly his hand became numbed, an unwonted trembling invaded the rest of his body, them his countenance waxed pale, as a messenger of great evil, and shortly his heart fainting, they that were present, supported him falling down, and carried him home in their arms, like to one giving up the ghost, and void of all sense. He lay almost 8. hours without life, until his wife a godly woman, and much devoted to our B. Lady of Loreto, with prayers and vows had pacified the wrath of almighty God and his B. Mother in behalf of her husband: whereby the vital heat having almost forsaken all the body, was at last restored to the joints, & breath began to pass more freely: so that Nerusio lifting up his eyes, and life returning unto him by degrees, knew the standers about, and coming to himself accused his own rashness and asked help and pardon of our B. Lady. Neither in vain. For his sin being forgiven him and taken away by devotion, did also take away the sickness of the body, that the care might demonstrate the cause of the disease. Assoon as he recovered, he advertised the Pope of the whole matter, and asked his advise what was best to be done: who being well assured that the said evil happened unto him more through to much confidence in himself, than the indignation of the B. Virgin (tempering his command with godly admonitions) persuaded Nerusio, that under the authority of the Vicar of God, and without any fear at all, he should go forward with the work which he had begun, and seriously admonished him, to dig through the sacred walls, not so much with his hammer and boldness, as armed with fasting and veneration towards the B. Virgin, so at last the thing would succeed according to desire. For it is not to be feared, that the B. Virgin Mother of God, will not have her House to become a thoroughfare, who will have it open to Pilgrims, not only without their danger, but also for their good. But the Pope's authority itself could not enforce Nerusio, much frighted already with the late evil of his presumption, to experience that again, which he assayed a little before, with so great danger to himself. At last because the Pope's command did urge, and the delay of opening these doors hindered the building of the work; there was a young man, who seemed nothing fearful to do it, who relying on the Pope's authority, and much entreated by his friends, would adventure the thing. He was one of the Clergy of the Church of Loreto, and was called Ventura Perino; who arming himself with three days fast, came with his hammer very reverently to the sacred wall. About whom there flocked a multitude of strangers and of the Clergy, these solicitous of the young man's confidence, those in suspense with the expectation of the thing. But with humble supplication, Perino is said to have spoken thus. Sacred House of the B. Virgin, pardon innocency, for I do not dig thee through with this hammer, but Clement the Vicar of God, desirous of thy ornament: he coveteth to have thee adorned, he, to have thee a thoroughfare: Therefore let it please the Mother of God, which pleaseth the Vicar of God. Having prayed thus, he digged through the designed place of the wall without any punishment at all. And afterward the Masons (prepared with like fasting and reverence) followed him, iterating his blows with safety, and opened three doors, whereof two give free entrance and regress to the people, and the third maketh way for the Priests to the holier part of the sacred Chapel, where the Image of the B. Virgin is reverenced near at hand. At the same time the little window, being alone in the fore wall, right almost against the Image, was made wider to receive the light, and strenghned with brazen bars, beautifully guilt. And when the rubbish was taken out, the old door being to big and open in the midst of the sacred wall, was also mured up. And then the new walls begun to be raised, to be covered, and vested with the notable Crust of the carved work.   

Pope Clement being helped by the aid of the B. Virgin of Loreto, doth adorn her with great care. CHAP. XXIIII  
ABOUT that time Clement using all diligence to adorn the House of Loreto, eschewed great danger by the protection of the B. Virgin Mother of God. For the City of Rome being taken by fraud and guile of the enemy, he retired himself into the Castle of Adrians' Fort; where the imperials besieging him, till he was able to withstand their forces no longer, he implored the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, not only by vow, but also by letters. Which was to good effect: for not long after, he escaped from amidst the enemy's bullets with safety; & being in great want, was relieved with three thousand Crowns of the gold and silver of Loreto. 
Bern. Cyril.  So that by double benefit of the B. Virgin of Loreto, Clement escaped present danger and necessity, and at last dashing the imminent storm of war, brought peace and repose to his people. Being delivered from danger of life, and from fear of war, he thought good, not only to give thanks to the B. Virgin of Loreto, but also (as much as lay in man's power) to requite it. Having therefore invested Charles the V with the Imperial Crown at Bologna, and returning back again to Rome, he came to the House of Loreto, to salute his Patroness and deliveresse: and performing his vow to God and the B. Virgin with hearty thanks (that the grace of so many merits towards him might not be forgotten) he resolved with himself by all means to hasten on the building of Loreto, & to solicit the Architect & masons thereunto, having a special desire to bring the Church at least unto the top. To dispatch these works, he repaid the money which he received in loan from the B. Virgin, whereby in his Popedom, both the Bishop's Palace at Loreto was speedily forewarded, and also a roof put on the Church with the admirable those, which is as high from the roof, as the roof from the ground. Meanwhile it was not Clements lest care to finish that worthy Crust of the carved work, which (as the beginnings made show) was not unlikely to be the most curious work of the whole world.   

Loreto is made more healthful by cutting down the woods and drying up the lakes. CHAP. XXV.  
WHILES the House of Loreto was daily more and more adorned with excellent works, by cutting down the woods, & drying up the waters near unto it, the town itself was made more healthful. 
Bern. Cyril.  For at that season the air was generally misliked, by reason of the diseases and death of the Inhabitants: because (for the most part) being marish and unwholesome, it caused such distemperature in their bodies, that a good part of the year, the inhabitants: were all rhewmatike and full of phlegm: were weak and diseased, and children chiefly were taken away with untimely death, who for the weakness of their bodies could hardly brook the unwholsomnes of the next lake, & the gross air of the place itself. And albeit Loreto is seated on a little hill which looketh towards the South, & the sun-rising; yet on the West and the North being enclosed with woody fens, and interposed hills, all the wholesome air was taken from it, and contrary, being on the other part open, it admitted the unhealthful and grossest winds. Not far of, there was a plain, always foggy, by reason of the fens, which came by the overflowing of the river Musion, and also slimy with the winter fludds, which by little and little gathering together, for want of motion became noisome. You may believe that this unwholesome seat was pleasing to the Mother of God, that the wholesomeness of her help might more appear in an unhealthful place. But at last news came to the Pope, how in the town of Loreto, many infants and children perishing with the foggy air before they came to man's estate, by little and little the town itself would become desolate, if that the inhabitants (as they intended) departed thence to other places, for want of posterity. Therefore thinking it to the glory of the B. Virgin of Loreto, to have the town most frequented, and the place very healthful, by advise of the Architects, he thought it most convenient, to dry up the lakes adjoining, to cut down the woods, to level the hills which over-looked the Church (by the inhabitants called Monte Regal and Montinorum) that by taking away the origin of the mists, and making the heavens discoverable, the clear and open wind might blow into the town with many wholesome blasts, to make the place more healthful. Whereupon he wrote to john Antony a Statis Governor of Loreto, and to Antony Sansovino the Architect in manner following. Understanding that the air in those parts (but specially in the summertime) is very unhealthful, partly for that a certain hill overlooking the said Chapel and Church excludeth the uplandish winds, healthful to the place, partly also because in a plain near to the said church for five miles together, many lakes and woods almost always slimy, breed much unhealthfulnes: and desiring to make that Church (famons throughout the whole world for the merits of the most glorious Virgin Marie, and the multitude of people reasoning thither) healthful by taking away the aforesaid causes; we have now ordained, that the high hill which over-looketh the Church shall be plained, the lakes dried up by ditches, & the woods cut down. Whereupon the Governor of Loreto (even with greater care than he was commanded) beginning so healthful a work, the 33. year of this age, & speedily hiring a great number of workmen by the Architect (and also entreating poor Pilgrims to set to their helping hands) made haste to cut down the wood next unto the town, to drain the lakes by ditches into the river running by, or into the next part of the sea, to level the hill that overlooked the town, which because it was a long and almost an infinite work was then rather begun then finished: but that very beginning brought some better health to the inhabitants for the present, and also much hope in time to come, as the work proceeded on.   

Pope Clement sendeth 3. of his Chamber into Dalmatia & Galiley, to seek out the remoueall of the house of Loreto. CHAP. XXVI.  
WHEN the dwelling of Loreto was made more healthful, the History of the House of Loreto was made more manifest. Hierome Angelita, a Citizen of Recanati an honour to his family many ways, not only for the nobility of his parentage, but also for the integrity of his life. 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  Who at that time dedicated to Clement the Pope, the History of the B. Virgin of Loreto which himself composed. The cause whereof was this: Because about that time, as before hath been said, out of the Chronicles of Flumen, certain Dalmatians brought to the Citizens of Recanati, the relation of the transportation of the sacred House, from Galiley into Dalmatia, and from thence into Picene. Therefore either by reading the history of Angelita, or at the request of his friends or rather being moved by heavenly inspiration, Clement had a vehement desire, to seek out the remoovall of the sacred House in Galiley itself. And albeit he was not ignorant that, that very thing was made evident enough, both by the Dalmatians (Frangipane being the author thereof) as also by the common consent of Picene, at the suit of the Citizens of Recanati; yet he held it to be the special office of the Pope himself, last of all by special men to seek out the certainty of so unusual and almost so incredible a thing, that the authority of the Pontifical Sea, might confirm other folks endeavours, utterly to take away all doubt out of the hearts of men, if perchance any should remain. Whereupon out of the number of his family, he chose three of his Chamber of approved religion and credit, whom he commanded to set forward, as soon as he had given them notice what they must do, and abundantly furnished them with all things necessary for them, wishing them a happy journey. Who going to Loreto, and viewing and measuring the sacred House with diligent care, shipped themselves for Sclavonie. Assoon as they came thither, they found a little ancient house like to that of Loreto, famous with the monuments of miracles; on a wall whereof was written, that in times past the House of Loreto had been seated there. These things the inhabitants themselves did show them, and that they reported no untruth, their true tears trickling down abundantly of zeal was no small assurance. Whereupon the Legates laying to their measures, and finding all things exactly to agree, continued on their journey, and arriving in Galiley, came to Nazareth: where the inhabitants showed them the foundations of the sacred House, which viewing and measuring round about, they found all things to accord. Among these Ambassadors, there was one john N. of Sienna, who thinking to confirm the truth of the old miracle with some new sign brought thence two of the stones whereof the houses of Nazareth are commonly built: which by his natural form is like to slate (such as in some places is digged out of quarries easy to be hewed) but marked and distinguished with yellow veins. And john returning to the House of Loreto with his fellow-Legates, compared tho●● stones of Nazareth with the stones of the sacred house and found them to be of the same kind and very like: which also did increase the certainty of the miracle, seeing it is evident that no such quarry of stones is in Picene, where all buildings (though very ancient) for want of stuff & such stones are known to be made of brick. Wherefore being very glad of their good success, they made haste to Rome, and after long expectation they came at last unto the Pope, & related unto him all that they had found. Moreover john showed him the stones of Nazareth, very like to them of Loreto, as witnesses of so great a miracle: which was embraced with exceeding joy of the Pope, & with special applause of his retinue.   

Three worthy men are delivered from danger of death. CHAP. XXVII  
ABOUT the same time, the House of Loreto was ennobled with most worthy miracles. 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier. julianus Caesarin ꝰ is cured of a very dangerous disease.  julianus Caesarinus one of the Peers of the City of Rome, being brought to the last cast with a grievous sickness at Bologna, the 33. year of this age, and being also given over by the Physicians, perceived death to be at hand, but imploring the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, he suddenly recovered thereof. The same year the Vayoud of Transiluania being overcome and taken in battle by Abrahim the King's Lieutenant of Turkey (whom they call the Bassa) by commandment of the wrathful Conqueror, was to be cast headlong from a very high cliff: but calling on B. Marie of Loreto he eschewed not only present death, but also servitude itself. For by chance discoursing with the Bassa of religion, he so mitigated his outrageous mind by heavenly help, that the Barbarian turning hatred into love, dismissed him with all the Transiluanian capitues without any ransom at all. And at this day there is extant at Loreto, a great Tablet, curiously painted, and garnished with gold, where this very thing is not only expressed in colours, but also in writing. 
The fall and gift of Ferdinando Gonzaga.  About the same time, a young noble man called Ferdinando Gonzaga, managing a very fierce horse at Mantua, by his forcible stirring, was thrown against the iron grates of a Church which was hard by, but imploring the help of our B. Lady of Loreto (a marvelous thing to be spoken) he had no harm at all in so grievous and so dangerous a fall: and being very mindful of his vow, he himself brought to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift, the silver Statue of a horseman, and afterward as long as he lived did continnally wear about his neck a silver Image of the said B. Virgin, either for a monument of that miracle, or else as a protection unto him in the perils of this mortal life. Neither in vain: for in great dangers in time of the battle, the soldierlike man always experienced and felt the favourable help of the B. Virgin Mother of God. Wherefore the Pope being exceeding glad, with the news of these miracles, and also with the certainty of the remoovall of the House of Loreto, from Galiley and Dalmatia, began earnestly to solicit Nerusio, to finish the most worthy ornament of the sacred Cell with all speed. But it seemed otherwise to God, who giving Clement the reputation for desiring to effect so notable a work, reserved the honour for finishing & ending it to an other. In setting up so famous an ornament, and in bringing it to perfection (as much as lay in him) not only his diligence, but also his magnificence was so remarkable, that not unworthily fame doth report him the author of it. And albeit the arms and ensigns of Leo are inserted in many places of the work itself; yet Clement put there no monument at all of himself; truly a rare example, and pleasing to God, that doubtless by his providence, the glory of so excellent a work fled from him that desired it, and followed him that fled from it. When they came to the back of the work, which standeth to the sun-rising, Clement being asked of the Citizens of Recanati, whether he would have the History of Loreto written on that part, he answered, it seemed better to have it likewise carved in marble, as the rest of the works of the B. Virgin were, both because the History would be sufficiently known and manifest of itself, as also, because the carving thereof would satisfy aswell the learned as the unlearned. But it pleased Clement the VIII. and Card. Gallo Patron of Loreto, to have the sum of the history of Loreto, written in a marble table, which was under the carved work, that the monument of so great and so unusual a thing, might be more famous and more known to posterity.   

The testimony of Friar Leander Albertus, of the house of Loreto. CHAP. XXVIII.  
ABOUT that time, a new testimony of no mean Historiographer graced the house of Loreto. Leander Albertus a learned and a godly man of the family of S. Dominicke, in the book which he set forth of the description of Italy, describing Picene, maketh worthy mention of the house of Loreto, which place we have turned out of Italian into latin, almost word for word: so therefore he writeth. Betwixt Recanati and the Adriatic sea, not far from the River Musion, on a little hill is seated the Church of B. Mary of Loreto, most famous throughout the whole world, which together with the town is fenced with strong walls: where there be many inhabitants, to entertain the Pilgrims with hospitality, who out of all parts of Europe, resort thither to perform their vows at all times of the year, but specially in the spring, and in the Autumn. And being to speak of so great a Church, whence I shall begin I know not: For on the one part the exceeding religion of the place, and on the other the great wealth of the Church doth present itself unto my mind; so that in very deed my forces do fail me, endeavouring to speak of that most holy and most religious chamber, where the Queen of Heaven, a perpetual Virgin, and Mary the mother of God, and a mediatrice unto her son for wretched mortal men, was borne, and brought up. Where by foretelling of Gabriel the Archangel, she was made and called the mother of God, where god himself put on human nature, to deliver us out of the jaws of the infernal dragon, and to set open the entrance of the heavenly kingdom, shut so many ages by the default of the parents of mankind. And (as I have said) whence I shall begin the description of such a place, I am ignorant: But to satisfy the godly and the curious reader, I will say something. Therefore first of all it is not to be doubted, but that this is the very chamber, where the Queen of Heaven was brought into this world: For besides most certain monuments of writing, which witness it to be the chamber of the B. Virgin mother of God, translated hither by Angels, there is none so barbarous and obdurate, none defiled with so many and so great offences and crimes, that in the very entrance of this sacred house (being as it were replenished with the present religion of the divine majesty) feeleth not his heart to be so mollified, that with all devotion doth not implore the help of B. Mary, and by her suppliantlie entreat pardon of his sins from Christ; and truly me thinks the power of God doth enforce them to this very thing. To these are added the signs and miracles wrought there by heavenly virtue, and the benefits bestowed on them, which humbly recurre to the mother of God for help, which not only monuments of writing do testify to be true, but also golden, silver and waxed Images, and votive tablets, which (for the space of many years and ages also) have been gathered and heaped together. I should be long, if by number, I should rehearse, the heavenly wonders and benefits imparted there to mortal men, which truly are so many and so great, that they may seem incredible to them, who are not easily brought to believe that God doth hear his mother's prayers: & truly Leander hath not desivered these things with more eloquence than truth.   

The House of Loreto is honoured with many worthy Donaries. CHAP. XXIX.  
NEVER before was the House of Loreto more honoured with votive gifts. For I find in the books of the House of Loreto, that at these times in their supplications, almost all the Picene people were wont yearly to bring many silver Crownets to the B. Virgin, 
Cod. Laur.  sometimes one, sometimes two, sometimes three, and sometimes no less than seven, 
Many Donaries of divers kinds.  either upon vow or devotion. And because there were now Crownets good store (for they amounted to 70.) they borrowed them of the Keepers of the sacred house, for which they gave a reward. Also many Castles, towns and Cities of Picene, in there supplications presented the silver purtraicte of their town, whereby at that time, of Cities, towns, and Castles, there were Images of silver, to the number of eighteen: among which the purtraicte of Firmo, of almost twenty pound weight, for fashion & value did excel. And these also, the keepers of the sacred house did lend to other people that wanted goldsmiths, to be carried in solemn procession, who gave money for their loan. And either custom (towit) of Crownets, or of Images of this sort hath so prevailed, that now it is chiefly used. Neither did this godly use contain itself in the bounds of Picene: for at the same time the people of Pisaurus, sent a silver purtraicte of their town of curious workmanship. But that the piety of Cities and Countries might not be greater than that of Citizens and moble men; Ascanius Columna famous among the Peers of Rome for parentage and wealth, brought for a gift to the B. Virgin, a silver Image of S. Rock, of one pound weight, and a vestment of cloth of silver for the priest, celebrating with solemnity. The Cardinal of the Foure-Crowned-Martyrs, a head of silver, of four pound weight. The Earl Rangonto of Modena, and john Francis Bossius of Milan, each of them a silver thigh, of one pound weight. Pyrrhus Gonzaga a foot of the same matter and weight. Pardus Pappacoda a Neapolitan, his own Image of silver, of double weight to the other. Alexander Calgagnino his own Image of silver engraven, of three pound weight. The Marquis Tripaldo, a silver lamp of like weight. The great Prior of the knights of Rhodes an other lamp of the same substance, but in weight some thing greater. Vincent Alsano oh Perugia, his own Image of silver, of XV. pound weight. There were also sixteen Images of silver presented by others, (whose names are not known) of 77. pound weight. But much before all the Donaries of this time, was the silver Image of Lewes Gisilardo a Citizen of Bologna, of more than fifty pound weight: Then also was the sacred furniture increased. Cardinal Montino (who afterward was Pope by the name of julius the third) presented for a gift, a curious vestment for the priest, of tissue-cloth of gold. Card. Palmerio ornature for the Altar and the priest of cloth of gold. The duke of Maestricht vestments of blue velvet, adorned with gold, for the priest and ministers celebrating with solemnity. Oliver Fagnano of Milan ornature for the Altar, and the priest of the same stuff. The Marquis Bitonta a vestment of Damask with works of gold. And others either brought or sent to the B. Virgin mother of God other ornature, for the Altar and the Priests, as Crownets of silver, chalices and other such like, which to rehearse were long. But this praise was not due only to men. A crownet of gold of one pound weight, her own Image of silver, praying to the B. Virgin, of one pound weight and a half, a silver foot of one pound weight, a Casket of the same substance and weight curiously wrought, two cruets of gold of fourteen ounces, and golden bracelets of antic work, were the gifts of Isabella Cardona the Viceroys wife of Naples. The marquess of Guasto a silver Image of the B. Virgin, holding the sweet child jesus in her lap, of four pound weight. And also the Turks sent gifts to our B. Lady. For it is well known, that the XXIX. year of this age, a Bassa of the Turks (his name and the cause is not delivered) sent a silver suit, beset & garnished with pearl, to adorn the Altar of the B. Virgin of Loreto, Clement the VII. being Pope; that we may understand that the B. Virgin of Loreto, is the general Patroness of all nations, which desire to use her Patronage.    

THE THIRD BOOK OF THE HISTORY OF LORE TO: Collected by the Reverend F. HORATIUS TURSELLINUS Of the Society of JESUS.  

POPE PAUL THE THIRD adorneth the Sacred House with benefits and Decrees. CHA  
AFTERWARDS Paul the III. succeeded in the Pontifical Sea, who in adorning & amplifying the state of the House of Loreto, contended even with Clement himself: & in the beginning of his Popedom bestowed many Indulgences & benefits on the same. For thinking it an unseemly thing, that the officers of the sacred House should hardly provide salt for money for their necessary uses, he gave them yearly twenty sacks of salt out of Ceruia, a benefit truly not to be contemned, whether you consider the perpetuity of the gift, or the necessity of the receivers, or else the mind of the giver, which doth well appear in the beginning of a certain Breve, which we thought good to annex. When our Predecessor Pope Xystus the fourth of happy memory, among other things of his mere motion had made honour able mention of the Church of B. Mary of Loreto, long agone miraculoufly founded in honour of the B. Virgin her self, in which through the marvelous clemency of God, was placed (as credible persons have declared) the glorious Image of the B. Virgin accompanied with a multitude of Angels, and to the which for the manifold and wonderful miracles, which by the merits and intercession of the said glorious Virgin, the higehst daily worketh in that place, out of divers, even the remotest parts of the world, doth daily resort a great multitude of people, receiving cure and help, by the favour of the aforesaid glorious Virgin etc. And a little after: Our Predecessor Pope julius the Second of happy memory considering that in the said Church of Loreto, there was not only the true Image of the B. Virgin Marie; but (as it is piously believed, and the report goeth) the Cell or the Chamber, where most B. Marie was conceived and brought up; and where also she herself conceived the Saviour of the world, when she was saluted by the Angel etc. And he also relateth other things, which julius the second set down in his decrees.   

Loreto is committed to the protection of the people of Recanati. CHAP. II.  
BUT Paul the Pope well knowing, how much good there is in a good Precedent, had always special care to provide good governors for Loreto, the greatest gift perchance of all. Whereupon making Alexander Argolus Bishop of Terracina Patron of Loreto, he notably ordered and advanced the state of the sacred 08 seat, placed many learned and grave men in the College of the Canons, performed the Ceremonies of divine prayer with solemn and Pontifical pomp, and finally for four years together, fulfiled his office in all things, belonging either to divine or human service, with great praise of religion and benignity. After whom succeeded Gaspar Contareno the Cardinal, 
Card. Contareno Patron of Loreto.  a man famous for learning and pregnancy of wit, and also a very good Patron of Loreto, but of short continuance by reason of death. For whiles he worthily governed the state of Loreto by Galeatius Floremonius (who afterward was Bishop of Aquino) with great expectation of his virtue, he departed this life. In whose place the Pope appointed Rodulphus Pius the Cardinal of Carpa, 
Card. of Carpa Patron of Loreto  a good Patron, and of long continuance, who truly for his worthy piety, would have gained to himself the surname of Pius, though he had not receined it from his ancestors. For there was never any more careful to adorn the sacred house; as in the Church of Loreto, and in the adjoined houses may well appear, where at this day are extant many and worthy monuments of his. This mean while, news of the Turkish war being more and more spread abroad, which Selime the Turkish Emperor threatened towards Italy, assoon as he subdued the kingdom of Tunis, by Ariadenus Enobarbus, Paul the Pope joined strait in league with Charles the Christian Emperor, and with the Venetians, and bend all his care and forces against the Turks, first of all intending to provide for the Church of Loreto: but because his treasure was wasted with preparation for the war, and scarcity of money hindered his godly purpose, he suffered not an occasion offered by chance, to pass unaccepted. For at that time the Ambassadors of Recanati came to Rome to the Pope, 
The Embassage of the people of Recanati to Pope Paul the 3.  to complain that Loreto their ancient possession was taken from them by julius his Predecessor with great damage, but with greater disgrace to their City. For who would have thought, that without a grievous crime, the Prince of Bishops, and the Vicar of Christ, would have taken from the people of Recanati their most ancient possession of Loreto against their wills? & for what desert of theirs, should so shameful a spot of infamy be laid on their well deserving City? Whether because from the beginning, she carefully maintained, reverenced with gists, adorned with a Church, graced with buildings, for almost two hundred and fifty years, justly and holily governed the seat of the B. Virgin of Loreto? When at any time did the Magistrates of Recanati govern it with avarice or pride? When was the protection of the Church, of the Inhabitants, or Pilgrims neglected? How often have the ways, which were pestered with thieves, and the audacity of way-laiers been repressed? And how often also hath the sacred house itself, been defended from hoflilitie with great forces of armed men? Behold why the people of Recanati should willingly recount these things: For the B. Virgin mother of God, transferring her native house into Italy, chose herself a seat, specially in our wood: and changing the same three times within sew months, departed not out of our territories, but made three places of our liberties, famous with her footsteps. We therefore bestowed on her, sufficient space for a Church: we built the Church and the town about her, and we gave to the Inhabitants both Magistrates and Laws. Which truly are of such importance, and avail so much, that they may seem to possess that place by good right, seeing they were deprived of their ancient possession without trial of their cause. But if it may be thought fit, that the Vicar of God should restore to the people of Recanati, the gift which God and his B. Mother bestowed upon them, indeed they will do their endeavour, that neither the Pope nor they of Loreto shall repent them of the protection and government of the City of Recanati. And that both parties may remain satisfied, the people of Recanati will refuse no condition, that the most just Pope shall impose upon them. when Paul had graciously heard the Ambassadors, he followed a certain mean, both to restore to the people of Recanati their right, 
Loreto is restored to the Government of the people of Recanati.  and notwithstanding to preserve the benefits of former Popes, granted in favour of the House of Loreto. Whereupon with these conditions, he restored to the Citizens of Recanati, their town of Loreto, (exempting only the Church and the governors jurisdiction over townes-folkes and strangers) to defend the sacred House of Loreto, against the Turks, with a strong garrison; to repair the walls and fortifications as need required; to make the ways secure from thieves, in favour of the Pilgrims that came up and down. Besides to repay into the Pope's treasury, to the use of the Turkish war, eight thousand Crowns which Leo the tenth had spent in fortifying of Loreto. So Loreto returned to the jurisdiction and Government of Recanati, the 35. year of this age, and about 20. years after it was made free by julius the second. But assoon as Paul the Pope saw himself delivered from the fear of this new war, he thought good to enrich the House of Loreto with lands, being now well defended with fortifications. Whereupon by his command, of the Magistrates Duûmuiri of Castro-Ficardo, were purchased the woods near to Loreto, with the vineyards, meadows and Oliveries adjoining, for which purchase he gave six thousand Crowns out of his own treasury: and also purchased other lands near to the River Musion, and gave them to the B. Virgin of Loreto.   

A Fraternity of Childrë is instituted, to sing solemn praise & laud, to the B. Virgin of Loreto. CHAP. III.  
AT that time the House of Loreto was not only enriched with wealth, but also with Ministers. For Paul the Pope, very well considering that the prayers of perfect purity were most acceptable to God and his B. Mother, instituted a College of twelve children, where he appointed that the choicest and wittiest children of all Picene, should be instructed to sing service with solemnity in honour of our B. Lady of Loreto. In choosing of whom, he commanded that regard should be had to the integrity both of body and mind, and great diligence of the best masters to instruct them. Special care was used, that they might incline the most holy Virgin, no less with the chastity of their manners, then with the sweetness of their voices. Who by the Pope's appointment being brought up and taught in a convenient place, (called the Chanonry) daily at certain hours song hymns to our B. Lady in her sacred Chapel, beseeching peace and pardon of God and his B. Mother, and entreating help and favour for Italy against the fury of the Turks. The children's piety deceived not the Pope, nor the B. Virgin failed not the children's prayers. For although the discord of the leaders, made the navy of the confederate Princes unprofitable, notwithstanding the B. Virgin herfelf brought peace to Italy, and vanquished the audacity of the Turks. For shortly after, all controversies between the Emperor and the King of France, were so luckily concluded, that of sorrowful war, joyful peace came by and by to Italy. 
Paul. jou. lib. 41. Annal. Laur. Rier.  And in the month of August, under the conduct of Ariadenus Enobardus, a great and strong navy of Turks threatening utter overthrow to Italy, was beaten against the rocks of Acroceraunion & suffered shipwreck, almost in sight of the House of Loreto itself. By which shipwreck it is very evident, that the greatest part of their navy was lost, twenty thousand of the Barbarians swallowed up in the sea, & almost all the Adriatic shore covered with the carcases of their enemies, with weapons, with boards, with munition, and other signs of shipwreck. Whose armour sloting up towards Loreto, & being known on the shore, almost before news thereof could be brought, made the overthrow of the enemies very notorious. Whereupon the people of Loreto and strangers rejoiced, that Almighty God and his B. Mother had heard the prayers of the children and of the godly; and that Almighty God himself revenging their wickedness, had also at last opened the eyes of their filthy pride. For which cause, they exhorted one an other, to reverence such a Patroness with special honour, by whose protection they saw all that coast of Italy, delivered from the present fear of the Turks.   

The Hospital, and the Spittle, to receive Pilgrims, are opened: the sacred House is adorned with buildings. CHAP. FOUR  
AND the Pope himself being most glad of such news, and not to be more bountiful to the Inhabitants than to strangers, 
The Hospital and the Spittle.  opened the Hospital of Loreto (finished much about this time) chiefly for the cure of diseased Pilgrims, and appointed an other place without the walls, for scabbed and leprous people, lest their infection might hurt the healthful. Then from the sick, turning his care to the sound, he erected an Hospital for poor Pilgrims, 
The Hospitality of the house of Loreto.  where they were well relieved, for the space of three days; and at their departure were furnished with bread, wine, shoes, and money. It is wonderful how much this fame of Hospitality and Christian Charity, increased the devotion of strangers, and the wealth of the Church of Loreto; all foreign nations almost recompensing the benignity, which Loreto bestowed on their Pilgrims: whereby we may see that true liberality towards the poor, doth rather increase wealth than diminish it. For lest the fountain of their bounty should be wasted, Almighty God doth make it to abound with riches, and doth graciously bestow greater wealth on bountiful givers, that they may eftsoons the better give unto the needy. Whiles these offices of Christian Charity were fervent, the works of Loreto which Clement had begun, were not altogether omitted. For by commandment of Paul the Pope, the hurtful woods were cut down, the misty lakes were dried up, the hills offensive to the Sacred Seat were thrown down to the ground. At the same time, the Bishop's Palace was forewarded; the porch was built; the those of the Church was covered with sheets of lead; that magnificent carved Crust of the most Sacred House (which was not far from finishing) was chiefly solicited. And now at this time, by the Pope's authority the Architect pulled down the old smoky beam and the roof; and (because the vaulting of the sacred Chapel so required it) he also beat down the uppermost part of the walls, adorned with semicircles and painted pots, together with the tops of the bell-turret, and of the chymnie, and built a  vault thereon, supported more with the new than the old walls; which at that time was bright and beautiful, but now by reason of the abundance of lights, black and smoky. And lest the negligence of men should lose those things, which necessity had caused to be parted & taken from the majestical Cell of the B. Virgin, the sacred beams, the rafters, tiles, and boards, and what else soever belonged to the roof of the most sacred House, was buried under the pavement of the same House, and reserved there with record thereof, that being removed out of their due place, they might change their place as little as might be.   

The Relics of the Chapel of Loreto, are honoured with miracles: and propagate the religion of the Sacred House. CHAP. V.  
THE earthen vessels and certain Pieces of the vauted roof being reserved for Sacred Relics, as they were, partly ministered occasion of miracles, and partly also carried the religion of the House of Loreto far and near. The ancient opinion is, that those earthen Vessels were found long agone by the Apostles, in the armory of the B. Virgin, and therefore when they consecrated her native House they commanded that they should be put in the top of the walls of that Chapel, not so much to adorn her sacred House, as to preserve a religious memory of those things. No light conjectures do confirm this opinion, which seem, to make it credible to many, that those earthen Vessels were of the household stuff of the Mother of God. For (as we may conjecture by them which at this day are extant) they do not much differ from the mean sort, and such as are commonly used: and in bigness there is great inequality among them, whereas indeed the ornature of the Sacred House, and the compass of the semicircles, required them to be of like equality; that we may understand, they were not so much provided for the ornature of the sacred Chapel, as the ornament itself accommodated to them. But whether they were of our B. Lady's household stuff, or else were provided of purpose for the ornature of her sacred Cell only, being dedicated together with her fortunate House, with great reason they were ever religiously esteemed. Yet now I find many of them to have perished, pilfered away (as I imagine) to propagate the Religion of the B. Virgin of Loreto. Whereupon divers of them which were left, were placed in the wall of the Church of Loreto, by the door which is in the side, where at this day they remanie to be seen. Few of them are reserved without some miracle or other. For I am sure that a Priest of Loreto of my acquaintance, being much troubled with the headache, was presently cured by applying a sacred pot unto his head. And an other Priest tormented with a grievous fever, and drinking cold water in the same, by and by had his sickness taken away. But the relics of the sacred boards, carried the religion of the House of Loreto almost throughout the whole world. For being dispersed abroad and distributed from one to another, they came almost into all countries, who esteeming them for sacred relics, as reason required, they exceedingly increased the reverence of the B. Virgin of Loreto, with whose religion (as it may well be supposed) they were, after a certain sort, endued. And it is very likely that by this occasion Oratories were erected in honour of the B. Virgin of Loreto, in divers parts of the world, either as monuments to their people of her singular protection, or else as solaces to them, whom sickness, business, or other impediments hindered from going to Loreto. For it is well known (but at this time specially) not in Picene and Italy only; but also beyond the Alps, and in far remote Countries, many chapels were erected to the B. Virgin of Loreto. To the builders whereof, what could be more wished to increase the religion of those sacred places, then to have some relics of the House of Loreto? What could be more desired, when religion forbade to take thence the sacred stones, than to entreat a particle of the roof, which the keepers of their liberality would not unwillingly bestow? Truly much about this time, I find that many Sacred Houses were dedicated to the B. Mother of Loreto in all places of the world, which in very deed, I put not among the least of the B. Virgin of Loreto her praises, her memory to have been so gratesull & dear unto strangers, that they would have a perpetual monument & an Image of her, at home in their own country. And to say nothing of Picene, whereof there is no City, 
Churches built to our B. Lady of Loreto.  nor town almost, where there is not some Church in memory of the B. Virgin of Loreto, the noblest Cities of Italy have erected no ordinary Churches in honour of our B. Lady of Loreto. At Rome there is a magnificent Church of the B. Virgin of Loreto, 
At Rome.  & worthy the Roman munificence, the model whereof, as the report goeth, was plotted & drawn by Michael Archangel Bonaroto, a most notable Architect. 
At Neples▪  And Naples also hath no mean Church of the B. Virgin of Loreto, and graced with an hospital of poor Orphans. Besides (as now I vndersta●● for certain) in the two noblest Cit●●●●● Sicily (at Palermo I say and at Messina) there is a most holy memory of the B. Virgin of Loreto. 
At Palermo and Messina.  And in Palermo, the Church which is dedicated to her name, is within the City, but at Messina in the Suburbs. Neither did this devotion towards the sacred House of Loreto, contain itself in the bounds of Italy, but speedily passed beyond the Alps. For Friar Vincent a good and a godly man, & a devout Priest of the Order of the Franciscans, returning from Loreto into France, 
In France at Laval.  in the Suburbs of Laval (a town of the diocese of Mayin) built a little House like to the Chapel of Loreto, and called it the B. Virgin of Loreto, which at this day is exceedingly reverenced, both of the inhabitants and strangers. And albeit Portugal be endued with most famous and religious Houses of the B. Virgin mother of God; notwithstanding it imitated this devotion towards the House of Loreto. 
In Portugal at Conymbria.  For the Citizens of Conymbria not far from their City (to wit in a most pleasant place of the Suburbs) dedicated a Church in honour of the B. Virgin of Loreto, which is celebrated with great concourse of the adjoining people. 
At Compostella. At Lisbon.  At Compostella there is an other, and a third at Lisbon, most majestical: which abeit it were built and magnificentlie adorned by the Italians, notwithstanding the inhabitants themselves do religiously frequent it. Besides, I find by approved authors that many years agone, two Churches were erected to our B. Lady of Loreto in the Kingdom of Scotland; 
In Scotland At Saint john's. At Edenburrow.  the one in the town Perth, otherwise called S. john's, the other by the high way that goeth to Missilburrow, not far from Edenburrow, the chief city of Scotland. In both places, the B. Virgin of Loreto was most religiously reverenced; and that in the Suburbs of Missilburrow was most famous for the resort & concourse of Pilgrims, and the miracles of our B. Lady, as long as the Catholic Religion remained in Scotland. But after Caluins pestiferous doctrine began to rage and reign in that Kingdom (heretofore most religious) those furies destroyed that sacred House of our B. Lady, but so notwithstanding, that the ruins thereof might remain, both as tokens of their madness, and also as manifest signs of the ancient religion of the Scottish people. And this (as we understand) was the beginning of the Chapel of Missiburrow. Many years agone, in the attire & habit of a Pilgrim, a Scottish Eremite came to Loreto to salute the B. Virgin, who at his departure carried with him into his Country, a small part of the sacred roof, and begging money of godly men, not far from the town of Missilburrow, erected a little Church some thing like to the sacred House of Loreto: which was very famous, aswell for reverence of the sacred relics, which were placed there, as also for the devotion of the people to the B. Virgin herself (whose name was illustrious among them) until, as we said before, the mad fury of Heretics threw it down.   

The description of the carued-worke, wherewith the most sacred House is adorned round about. CHAP. VI  
AT that time, the reverence of the House of Loreto, was propagated abroad, and increased at home. The 38. year of this age, Paul the Pope opened that most famous monument of Pontifical magnificence, designed by julius, begun by Leo, effected by Clement, but not wholly perfected (for many of the Statues, and all the brazen leaves of the doors were wanting) yet was it brought to that pass, that it might seem as finished. Truly a work so excellent, and so admirable, that the new and most magnificent workmanship thereof, was yet never equalled in like quantity, for it doth very well appear by the books of account, that the said work, stood in two & twenty thousand Crowns, besides twenty Statues, lively wrought, & four brazen leaves curiously engraven, which cost almost as much. The most worthy ornament which doth environ the sacred Cell of the B. Virgin is foursquare, almost all of white solid marble, & carved with admirable art; in length about 50. foot, in breadth about 30. and the height almost equal to the breadth. The whole work is made of Carrara marble, of great beauty, and notably graced with striged Pillars, of Corinth work, whereof six adorn the larger sides, and four the lesser. A fascia of Lucullan marble, about a foot broad, is curiously wrought about the lowest part of this ornament, in steed of the groundwork. Then arise the Cornisht Pedestals, which fitly distinguish & adorn the spaces. And in the spaces & Pedestals themselves, are placed, either the arms of Descent or Acquist of Pope Leo, or else memories of his virtues, in carved scutcheons, some of a foot, some of a cubit, set forth with great art and skill. Upon the Pedestals are placed two Pillars at every corner, but in the longer sides two also in the middle, that is to say by the two doors, with equal distance from each other. In the compartments between the Pillars are two ranks of Imagery, enclosed within their Nicets, incrusted in Porphyry-tables of excellent workmanship; the one beneath at the bases of the holy Prophets, the other above at the Architrave, of the Sibyls, who prophesied of the birth of Christ, and of the B. Virgin Mother of God. In the wider spaces, between the bodies of the Pillars, are great tables of white marble, solid & whole, where the notable works of our B. Lady, are so admirably carved in embossed Images, almost of natural stature, that all do greatly admire them. Moreover a double Cornish doth adorn the Architrave of these Pillars, excellently graced with Cornish work; the under spaces whereof, two Eagles holding in their beackes, branches of fruit-workes, as stalks of apples and other fruits of admirable workmanship (with Lion's faces placed here & there between) do not a little adorn. In brief, on the top of this worthy ornament, doth stand a beautiful rank of little Pillars cornished, fitly and orderly distinguished, with the figures or Angels embossed, which go about the whole work, instead of a garland: & the ornament itself hath a free walk round about, to hang up such votive gifts, as hereafter were to be brought to the B. Virgin. I think it not a thing worth the labour, to describe it with more words, seeing it may be seen. A work verily worth the beholding, whose exceeding beauty none can conceive in mind, that hath not seen it before with his eyes. Wherefore assoon as it was spread abroad, that the most admirable ornament of the sacred Cell was opened, forthwith great concourse of Inhabitants & strangers, was made to Loreto. For of purpose the workmen did use all diligence, to keep close the frame of that curious ornament with coverings until it was finished, that people might behold it with greater admiration & majesty, when the fresh & entire beauty of the finished work should come newly to their eyes. And with this incomparable sight, and most excellent for proportion and curiosity, all men did earnestly delight, both eyes and mind.   

The Thole of the Church beginning to cleave, is strengthened. CHAP. VII.  
AS the Inhabitants were solacing & taking great delight in so worthy a sight, they were brought into a sudden fear, lest in a moment, they should be deprived of that which they beheld with so great admiration and pleasure, and (which was worse) even of the thing itself whereof that was but the ornament. The vault of the Church (in the middle whereof, as we said before, was placed the sacred Cell of the B. Virgin) stood supported on eight columns of brick: but either with the height of the walls built thereon, or else with too great weight of lead overburdening, suddenly it began to yield to the burden, and to cleave, threatening utter ruin not only to the new ornament of the sacred Cell, but also to the Cell itself over which it stood. Therefore the Pope being moved with so dreadful a message, forthwith commanded Antony Sangall his Architect to hasten to Loreto, and by all means to prevent that so great an inconvenience, lest the labour of so many years, and of so many Popes, in a moment should be brought to nothing, & also lest the sudden fall of the Church, should destroy the two chiefest wonders of the world; the one of divine power, the other of human art. Sangall being stirred with this fearful charge, made haste to Loreto, and conferring the matter with Nerusio the Architect, forthwith by common advice he went about to fortify and strengthen the Columns insufficient to sustain so great a burden. Wereuppon in continent he underpropped the vault with strong supporters, & speedily digging up the foundations round about it, he covered the colunnes with square stones, & strengthened them with four little arches, framed between every other Pillar, that they might be able to support the burden laid upon them. And lest any fortification, not only necessary, but also convenient should be omitted, the Columes & the walls were so fastened together with great bars of iron, that the bars themselves do never, or not undecentlie appear. Other things were so perfected, that you would have thought they had not provided for the strength, but for the ornament of the Church. And to dispatch this work with greater speed, the diligence of the Pilgrims did not a little forward the endeavour of the masons, and of the Architects. For a great multitude of them, to prevent the imminent danger, wherein they saw the Sacred House of Loreto, strivinglie carried stones, brought burdens, and holp about the engines, glad to bestow their endeavour and travel, on the B. Virgin of Loreto, the holiest Cell of the world, and the refuge of all people and nations. Whereby the whole work was finished sooner than any would have thought, and the imminent danger of the Sacred House was taken away, no less by good providence, than speed.   

The House of Loreto is enriched with new Donaries. CHAP. VIII.  
ABOUT that time, 
Cod. Lau.  a great multitude of Donaries were given by Noble men and Noble women. 
The gift of the Duke of Milan and of divers others.  Francis Sforza the la●● Duke of Milan, sent worthy ornature of cloth of gold, flourished with costly works, for the Priest and Ministers celebrating divine service with so enmity. Sigismond of Est, a silver Image of his son Hercules of 4. pound, and an other of himself of the same substance, but of double weight to the other. Bassanus of Mantua, his own Image also of silver, of more than 8. pound weight. Honorius Sabellus a silver Crownet, of three pound weight: Octavius Farnesius a golden Cross hanging in a chain of gold. Bonisacius Cetanus Duke of Sermoneta, a silver Image of the B. Virgin of Loreto, and an other of his son, of no mean weight. Hercules Maria Sforza, two Images of silver, both of eight pound weight Bernardine Sanqvinius of Naples two carved Images of Silver, of four pound weight. Leonard Bona-fide, Bishop of Cortona, his own Image of silver of 4. pound weight. julius Monaldus of Mantua, such an other Image of like matter and weight. But among all the Images of this time, the solid Image of silver of a Captain, all in armour, and polished very curiously, from Pompilius a certain person of Bologna, more known to God than to men, (for his surname is not delivered) doth far excel. Antony Pignatellus of Naples a chain of gold: also an other from Lewis Earl of Vmbria. Leonard Venerius a Senator of Venice, a silver chalice, notable for workmanship and weight. Neither were the gifts of Noble women, of small value. For Marie of Austria the emperors daughter, presented a silver heart of two pound weight. Constantia Duchess of Amalpha her own Image of silver of five pound weight. The viceroys wife of Abruzzo golden bracelets of notable fashion. The Princess of Bisinia, a golden head of two pound weight. Portia the Countess of Populo, an other head of the same substance and weight. Marry of Arragon, marquess of Guasto, the silver Image of a young man, of three pound weight, wherein the cause is written in manner following.  
MARRY OF ARRAGON MARQVESSE OF GVASTO, SENT IT, IN PERFORMANCE OF AVOW, FOR RESTORING OF HEALTH, TO ANTONY, A YOUNG MAN, MY BROTHERS SON.  
julia Verona Duchess of Urbine, a golden heart, o● no small weight. Neither did Cities & Towns fail to send their Donaries. A silver Image of the town Vico Varone, of three pound weight. An Image of Sarnano of the same substance, but of thrice double weight: and a Crowner of silver of excellent workmanship from Macerata, were all at this time presented to the B. Virgin of Loreto. Moreover other gifts of no small value, were given by unknown persons. Six silver Statues of S. Rock, of no mean weight. Forty Crowner's of silver, whereof the greatest part was of one pound weight, many of two and divers of three, for the most part from Cities and Towns. Votive Images of silver, above threescore; whereof many were of one, many of two, & three pound weight. Few less of Chalices of silver, and many ornaments for the Altars and Priests, not only of silk, but also of silver and gold. Truly great humility appeared in divers of the givers. For many gifts (as appeareth in the book of Donaries) were put secretly on the Altar, 
The humility of many which presented worthy gifts.  or else delivered by the givers themselves, who would not by any means have their names set down in record. And many also suppressing their surnames, instead thereof set down the names of their Country: which sincerity is likewise seen, in the title of many Donaries, that it may sufficiently appear, they were unwilling (which Christ forbade) to have the Trumpet to sound before them, that they might not receive the glory and reward of their piety from men, but expect it from God, who, seethe it in secret.   

The Captain of a Band of horsemen is carried away headlong by the force of a River, and delivered from evident danger of life. CHAP. IX.  
IN the territory of Reate (said to be the Navel of Italy) there is a great Lake, caused by the River Velinus, whereof it taketh the name: which running again out of the said Lake, for a little way, doth flow gently and pleasantly, but afterward shooting down from a high Cliff by rocks and stones, it falleth on a rock beneath, with great hurrying and noise of the waters, commonly called The ruins of Pedilucus. Not far from the rock, of which I have spoken, by chance passed a band of horsemen, of Peter Aloysius Farnesius, who at that time was Duke of Castro, the Captain whereof being called the Marshal, was Peter Terenatico of Sienna, who had a great desire to behold the River falling from above. Therefore taking with him two horsemen, he went unto the place, from whence Velinus falleth, with desire to see it. But his horse entering into the River to drink, and going on by little and little, carried him unawares into the main screame. Without delay Terenatico perceiving himself to be carried by force of the water, into the dangerous place which he came to behold, and which is worse, being also cast from his horse by violence of the stream & in great danger of drowning, with pitiful moan he called on the B. Virgin o● Loreto. He prayed not to them that were dea●e. For in the very fall of the River, the B. Virgin did protect the party in hazard, and reaching forth her right hand, sustained him, as he tumbled down among the waves and rocks, & descended him until he came to the bottom: a wonder ul thing to be said, that a rock should receive him safe, and preserve him unhurt, when he was cast headlong from the high Cliff above. Whereupon, coming presently to Loreto to perform his vow to the mother of God, and desiring to have a votive table to witness so great: miracle, he caused the whole matter to be set down in order, which at this day is to be seen on a Pillar, on the right hand of the most sacred Chapel, wherein was written this which followeth. I Peter Terenatico Knight, and Marshal of the horsemen, of the Duke of Castro, and the rest of the horsemen going out of Picene to Vico Varone, and coming to the lake Velinus on the Ideses of march, the year 1543. I and two other Soldiers, Tiberius de Grau●sco, and Antony Cortona, departed from the rest of the horsemen, to see that place, from whence Velinus doth fall into Nar. And watering my horse not far from thence, I and my horse fell into certain straits of the River; from which falling headlong a wonderful way, to wit above a hundred Cubits, a certain rock received me with safety, as I implored the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto the mother of God, much wondering, and amazed in myself at the thing: wherefore eftsoons I performed my vow, to the most B. Virgin, whom at that time I experienced, to be present, and merciful, as two Centurions and eye-witnesses thereof, Chiniacius Vrbivetanus and Raymund, with the whole wing of horsemen can testify. This inscription we have inserted word for word, that it may the better appear, how witnessed and certain this miracle is.   

Pope Paul the third, doth twice visit the House of Loreto, and hasteneth on the work of the Pope's Palace. CHAP. X.  
MEANWHILE Paul the Pope having adorned the House of Loreto with worthy works, 
Annal. Laur. Raph. Rier.  did also honour the great solemnity of the same with his presence, thinking to make himself an example to principal men, not only to beautify, but also to frequent the native Cell of the B. Virgin. For within three years he twice visited the sacred House of the B. Virgin of Loreto. First the one and fortieth year of that ●ge, when from the City of Luca (after he had saluted the Emperor, and also done his endeavour to dissuade the expedition to Algell) he returned unto the City by Aemilia and Flaminia. Again almost three years after, when after the misfortune of Algell, he went to meet the Emperor at Bologna, making haste to the wars in Flanders. For then the Pope passing speedily through his own State, that he might meet him in convenient time, came to Loreto, and at either time, took exceeding joy, to see the sacred House of the B. Virgin, 
The gift of Paul the 3.  and brought with him worthy Donaries: Golden Vestments for the Bishop, Priest, and A tars, in token o● his devotion and munificence. Also he took no small contentment to see the ●ruit of his liberality, as well in his other works, as chiefly in the incomparable form and beauty of the most magnificent work, wherewith the sacred Chapel is environed on the outside. At which time beholding the difficulty of leveling a hill, that stood against it, on the west side, and thinking it to be a work, not only of great charge, but also of infinite labour, & the profit nothing answerable unto the labour, he is reported to have said. We must desist from a vain work, and employ ourselves in more profitable and certainer commodities of the House of Loreto which may correspond to the expectation of men. So from leveling the hill, he bent his care and industry to build the Pope's Palace, appointed for the entertainment of Noble men. Whereupon in short time great part thereof was finished, polished, and furnished so magnificently, that in the same, Kings and Popes themselves might lodge most honourably. Of three parts thereof, one was then finished, which being seated on the right hand of the Church, is directly extended from the setting of the sun, which in length is an hundred Cubits, in breadth four and twenty, and five and twenty in height; besides the great groundworks added on the North side, to make the building equal. And this part of the Palace hath a double Porch of great State, which doth consist of 15. Arches, and almost as many great Columns, of large compass, as well above, as below. Truly a notable work, and very excellent, both for sight and use.   

The House of Loreto is adorned with Chapels, and Heavenly Signs. CHAP. XI.  
THIS part of the building of Loreto, was not who●●e finished by the Pope, when principal Men began to adorn the chapels of the Church. The chiefest in that work, was Rodulphus Pius the Cardinal of Carpa, who (as we said before) succeeded Card Contareno in the Patronship of the House of Loreto: and being a very godly & virtuous man, he adorned the Chapel, which was designed to keep, and Minister the most holy body of Christ, 
The Chapel of the Prince of Bisinia. Of the Archb. of Altovico. Of the Card. of Trent. Of the Card. of Augusta.  with excellent pictures of marble work, guilt: whose example stirred other great Men to imitate that ornament of piety. The Prince of Bisinia adorned the Chapel of S. Anne: the Bishop of Al●o-Vico the Chapel of the B. Virgin, visiting S. Elizabeth: the Cardinal of Trent the Chapel of the rosary: the Cardinal of Augusta the Chapel of S. john Baptist, some with pictures, and others with pictures and implastered works. 
Of the Duke of Urbine.  But of all in this kind, the munificence of the Duke of Urbine did far excel, who adorned his Chapel; not only with white marble, carved with marvelous art, but also with most beautiful pictures, made by Bacorio, and Zuchero two notable Painters. Whiles the Church was adorned of mortal men with striving emulation, it altogether wanted not immortal ornaments. For at that time I find that the old wonder, of the flames of Loreto, was renewed after a new manner. In the night time, a fiery Pillar (as it were) shining with great brightness, was seen to stand over the Church of Loreto: 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  from whence by little and little, it went towards Macerata, a famous town of Picene, 14. miles from Loreto, & at last rested over the Church of S. Marie surnamed of the Virgins, in the Suburbs of Macerata, which wonder the Franciscan Capuchins (whose Monastery was in the Suburbs) very carefully and often observing, after the morning office of divine service, when before day (as their manner was) they retired themselves into the next wood to serve God, they gave it out, that, to their thinking, our B. Lady did descend from heaven in likeness of a heavenly flame, upon her Native House, and from thence went unto another Church which was dedicated to her name, by that means to make it known to mortal men, that, that Church was also dear unto her. And the wonderful multitude of miracles, which shortly after were wrought in the same place, seem most manifest proofs of the heavenvly sign, which did illustrate that year, which was memorable for the departure of Paul the third, who publishing the celebrity of the jubiley, against the 50. year, put of mortality, and passed to an immortal life, leaving the care, and the praise of the jubiley to his Successor.   

Pope julius the III. suiteth a College of the Society of JESUS at Loreto. CHAP. XII.  
JULIUS the third, according to the use of former Popes, with his authority confirmed the Indulgences, Immunities, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  and Benefits of the House of Loreto. And calling to mind that divine saying, 
The benefits of julius the 3.  Holiness becometh thy House, O Lord, by laws which he caused to be set down by the Cardinal of Carpa, excited the Clergy and People of Loreto to greater perfection of life. Then from the discipline of the Inhabitants, turning his care to the ornature of the place itself, he also caused the sacred furniture to be well increased; the marble stairs in the Church Porch to be laid; the entry to be paved with brick, for seemliness of the place; divers private houses to be built over against the Porch, whereof we have spoken; either to grace the street, or else for benifitt of the Inhabitants. At last the uppermost rooms, & next to the Bishop's lodging, before rude & inhabitable were well fitted to dwell in, & assigned to the Society of jesus. For the Pope well knowing, that the amendment of corrupt manners by mean of a well ordered Confession, is the greatest fruit of holy Pilgrimage, decreed to provide fit Penitentiaries for the Church of Loreto, most famous with the Pilgrimages of all Nations. And albeit there wanted not holy & godly Priests; yet their scarcity, or unskillfulnes in strange languages, made less profit, than indeed was requisite. Therefore the Pope considering all things, through the exhortation of the Cardinal of Carpa, thought it for the best, to admit the Fathers of the Society of jesus to help the Priests of Loreto: that there might be some, who with their knowledge of languages, might invite the Pilgrims to the expiation o● their sins, and might also employ continual and diligent labour, in hearing the Confessions of strangers. Twelve Fathers were chosen for that purpose; for whose maintenance, allowance sufficient was made, out of the revenues of the House of Loreto. Their dwelling was in the uppermost part of the buildings (which at that time were void) assigned them the 54. year of this age. This was the beginning of the College of the Society of jesus at Loreto: small truly, but to no small good of the Inhabitants and Pilgrims. For the greatest care of the Fathers, was to purge the souls of the Pilgrims & them that dwelled beyond the Alps, by confession; to instruct all such rude people as were ignorant of the mysteries of Christian belief, and to excite every one to the zeal of a godly and Christianlike life. And how fruitful and profitable their labour was, both to the Inhabitants and strangers, is more fitting to leave it for others to conjecture, than for me to write. But that this College of the Fathers was not only pleasing to mortal men, but even to our B. Lady herself, the daily increase and greater progress thereof, doth plainly show.   

The wonder of the heavenly flames is renewed at Loreto. CHAP. XIII.  
NOt long after, heavenly signs drew a far greater multitude of people to Loreto than was wont, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  & brought them to the Fathers to be confessed and instructed. Before the year was expired, night-fiers like unto Stars, were seen to break out of the Thole of the Church of Loreto, and as it were in one stream to go sensibly towards Monte-Filatrano, the village next to Loreto: where moving up & down a little while in a round, over an ancient House of our B. Lady, they retired strait to the House of Loreto, from whence they came. This wonder was first observed by the shepherds which dwelled hard by that Village, by whose showing, it was afterward noted of the Inhabitants, and of all the people, with so great admiration, that a certain astonishment seized all their hearts. Neither was the spectacle short, or of small continuance, but durable and almost as long as the night itself: For from the second vigil of the night, it continued till the break of day. Whereupon many coveting to see the thing near at hand, ran to the place, which seemed to shine with heavenly flames: but when they came thither, by and by that admirable spectacle beheld a far of, vanished out of their sight, that desired to see it near at hand: when nevertheless at the same time, it showed itself to the lookers on a far of News of these heavenly lights, being speedily diwlgated over all Picene, enkindled a desire in the bordering people to see so grateful a sight, who lodging abroad all night, in such places as they might conveniently behold them, saw the heavenly flames shine out of the House of Loreto, and pass over their heads, with no less admiration than joy. That they were no vain sights, the Miracles presently ensuing did evidently show. For it is constantly reported, that many which came to visit that little House, by gift of God, and his B. Mother, returned home to their own houses, cured of many diseases, whereof there were lame, deaf, ruptured, and possessed people. You may think that these excursions of the light of Loreto to other Churches of our B. Lady, signified to mortal men, that the House of Loreto, far excelled the rest, both in state & dignity: sithence our B. Lady seemed to stay with them only in passage: but here, in a sort, to dwell.   

Heavenly flames are seen in the Church of Loreto itself. CHAP. XIIII.  
NOT only abroad, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  but also within the Church itself, heavenly flames have sometimes been seen. The year that next ensued, which was 1555. when one of the Fathers of the Society of jesus, was preaching unto the people in the Church of Loreto (as their custom is) in the clear daylight, certain bright fires, falling down from heaven rested over the most sacred Chapel in the presence of many people: which by and by spreading more and more abroad, went about the assembled multitude, and then presently into heaven again, with great admiration and wonder of all the audience. It is scarce credible, what devotion and joy this celestial sight enkindled in the hearts of the beholders. Raphaell Riera a learned and a godly Priest of the Society of jesus by chance being present among the multitude, afterward set down in writing this very thing, and also many others pertaining to the history of Loreto, and was so astonished at the wonder & strangeness of the thing, that presently he fell down on the ground for reverence sake; and rendering due thanks to God and his B. mother, who vouchsafed to make him partaker of that heavenly sight, he affirmeth that he felt such abundance of heavenly joy at that present, that it continued with him many days, his heart being once inflamed with the charity of God, and devotion towards our B. Lady. Neither did this wonder (as he delivereth) happen to him alone, but also to many others, who after the Sermon, both with their speeches, gestures, and tears, witnessed that the same happened likewise unto them: such was the unwonted joy and sacred dread, which appeared in the countenance, eyes & gestures of them all. That it was no vain sight, the iteration of the same miracle doth testify. For two years after, when one of the same Fathers, according to their custom, was preaching to the Canons, & the assembled multitude, and some hearing the Confessions of Pilgrims, others praying to Almighty God in the most majestical Cell of the B. Virgin, suddenly in the top of the those, a heavenly flame (like unto a Comet or blazing star) was perceived to glitter and shine, which falling down upon the sacred Chapel, stood there a little while: then going towards the multitude, made a grateful show to all the audience, much admiring so great a miracle and wonder: but by and by turning his course an other way (to wit, towards the place appointed to hear Confessions, called the Penitentiary) moved up & down over the heads of the Priests & them that confessed their sins: And finally resting a while over the Image of Christ Crucified (which is religiously reverenced in the most Sacred Chapel) it mounted again on high, replenishing their hearts with devotion and zeal, who had seen that heavenly vision with their eyes.   

Two Capuchins are delivered from the raging sea. CHAP. XV.  
THERE wanted not other miracles at that time, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Rier.  whereof we will relate the most famous, according to our purpose. About the year 1553. two Franciscan Capuchins, having saluted the B. Virgin of Loreto, set out of Ancona to sail into Dalmatia, but in the middle of their voyage a foul storm arising, threatened destruction to all the company. Therefore the Master providing to disburden the ship of her weight, and casting the baggage and merch and ize into the sea, the Franciscans began to pacify the wrath of God by prayer, in an angle of the ship. But the merchants being mad, either with the grief of their loss, or else stirred with devilish fury, turned their range on the Franciscans, secure from danger, as they thought, saying unto them: Seeing the storm arose by your default, by your destruction it shall be assuaged. exclaiming in this manner, they flew upon them, and assaulting the Innocents', apprehended them, and cast them into the sea. But the Franciscans calling on the B. Virgin of Loreto, (whom they invocated when the storm began) ceased not to cry unto her among the waves. A wonderful thing to be spoken and seen: For by the great goodness of God, they were holden up so high, that their breasts did appear all above the water: and singing praises to God and his B. Mother, and also lifting up their hands towards heaven, they were very quietly carried amidst the violence of the outrageous sea. Whereby in short time by the guiding and direction of Almighty God, they arrived both together at the haven of Ancona; and in their wet garments, as they were, returning speedily to Loreto to render due thanks to our B. Lady, they prostrated their bodies on the ground before her Sacred Image; and with trickling tears gave hearty thanks to God & his B. Mother for their delivery. Among the Guardians of Loreto, there was one Bernardine Galliard, a man of good credit, and of long time host to the Capuchins, with whom they lodged both before they went to Ancona, and after they returned to Loreto. Who entertaining these Franciscans (of whom I have spoken) all wet with the sea, & demanding the cause thereof, at last they opened it unto him, with this condition, that he should conceal their names. whereupon Galliard suppressing their names, related it to others, as he received it from them.   

A young man is delivered from the whirlpool of a River. CHAP. XVI.  
BY the favour of the B. Virgin of Loreto, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  an other eschewed noless danger in a River, than the Franciscans did in the sea. Angelus Autanus, a young man in the Territory of Salerno, of great toward lines & piety, went into the River Vulturnus, which passeth by Capua, to wash his body, with a fellow and companion of his. But his fellow going forward without regard, and falling into the unknown whirlpooles of the River, was in great danger of drowning. Whereupon Autanus making haste to aid his companion in hazard, fell himself into the same danger, out of which he laboured in vain to deliver the other. For he himself being swallowed up among the whirlpooles of the swift stream, but after some time cast up again from the bottom, in the conflict of death called on our B. Lady of Loreto, as well as he could: and the B. Virgin whom he invocated was presently at hand, who taking the young man out of the whirlpool, when he was almost dead, received him into her lap, and carrying him over the river for the space of a mile, set him down in a convenient shore. Who remained long amazed, with dread of the danger and of the miracle. But assoon as he came to himself, he acknowledged the heavenly benefit, fell down on his knees, and carefully saluting our B. Lady his deliveresse, with thankfulness extolled her worthy praise, and out of hand went to Loreto, to worship the moher of God, and to publish the miracle.   

A maid of Loreto is delivered out of a well: a Citizen of Caieta out of prison. CHAP. XVII.  
NEither did Loreto itself want the held of her Patroness, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  in like danger of her people. A young maid coming to draw water at a well in the governors House of Loreto, as she was accustomed, let down her bucket tied fast unto a rope, & carelessly pulling it up again full of water, with the weigh to the bucket tumbled headlong into the well, calling on our B. Lady of Loreto. By chance, one of the chief Ministers of the sacred House, standing in a window, and seeing the maid fall into the well, implored the help of the B. Virgin in her behalf, and forth with, with the rest of his household, ran unto the well itself. A wonder to be spoken. When they saw that she was in no danger at all, but sat on the water, with joyful countenance, in continent they let down a great bucket fastened to a strong rope, and warning the maid what she must do, without delay endeavoured to draw her up: who sitting in the bucket, and holding the rope in her hands, was a length brought to the top of the well; but among so many hands, uncertain what to do, and rashly letting go the rope, before any had hold of her, she tumbled down the same way again. Whereupon all that were present invocating the Mother of God in her behalf, the maid was conveyed down again to the water without any harm at all, though many sherds of broken pots were underneath. For which cause letting down ladders, they got her out a slower, but a safer way: and presently the maid herself told them, how a Lady of great beauty, did protect her as she fell into the well, in whose hands she swam on the water, without any danger or grievance at all. The same also happened unto her, as she fell down the second time, for our B. Lady receiving her with her hands, made her to sit in her lap upon the water, until ladders were sought out and fastened together, to be let down into the well, that she might be preserved by this double miracle, to be no small document, of the B. Virgin of Loreto's protection. But a man was as infallible an argument of her help at Rome, as the maid was at Loreto. A certain Citizen of Caeta, borne of honest parentage, but of little courage and m●●●nimity, and of a tender disposition by nature & education, being accused of murder by false witnesses, was so frighted at the unwonted sight of the torments, that he had rather, as often it chanceth, suffer execution by confessing that which was false, than avoid the same by denying it in torture. Being condemned to die, he washed away the blemishes of his soul, by sacred Confession, & by exhortation of the Priest committed his cause to the heavenly judge, entreating the assistance of the B. Virgin of Loreto. His prayers were heard. For within a while being overtaken with a sweet sleep, he seemed to see the B. Virgin of Loreto, who bidding him be of good comfort, put him in hope of life and liberty. Whereupon the innocency of the man was presently known by miracle, and the authors of that wickedness, & the workers of the false crime convicted, who suffered the same death, which they prepared for the innocent.   

A Bassa of the Turks, being cured by the B. Virgin of Loreto, doth honour her with gifts. CHAP. XVIII.  

Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  NEITHER were the Barbarians devoid of the help of Loreto, Corcutus a Precedent of the Turks (whom they call the Bassa) being at Constantinople the year 1552. was brought into evident danger of death by a grievous and a secret impostume of the breast. A certain honest and godly Christian, served him as a slave, who thinking the danger of his master the occasion of his liberty, went unto the Precedent ready to die, and certifying him of the admirable power of the B. Virgin of Loreto, in curing all manner of diseases, put him in good hope of recovery; and without great difficulty, persuaded him, to call on the B. Virgin of Loreto with him, & to make this vow: If she took away his disease, for her sake he would give him liberty, and release him from bondage. Neither did the slave deceive his master, nor Marie her godly Client. For within a while the impostume broke, and the Precedent was cured, who giving good testimony thereof, set his slave at liberty, and sent him to the B. Virgin of Loreto with letters and gifts. The gifts were, a mantle of notable workmanship, great wax candles, no small store of silver, a bow and an excellent quiver of arrows, not so grateful and acceptable for value, as because the gifts were rare and the giver himself to be admired. At that time Gaspar Doctus a Venetian was Governor of Loreto, who putting the other Donaries on the Altar, commanded that the bow and the quiver of arrows, should be set up over the door of the most Sacred Cell, for a monument of the miracle to posterity. Also the party of whom I have spoken, being set at liberty by the Bassa, brought with him the hand-writing of his Patron, for a testimony of the miracle, which Gaspar translating out of Arabian into the vulgar tongue, would have preserved for an everlasting memorial thereof. and the same turned into latin, is this. That which the great and merciful Lord of the world would have to happen unto us. A certain thing chancing to me myself from above, I Corcutte the Bassa (not to fail in my duty, and to have some monument of so great a wonder to be extant to posterity) will relate the whole matter in order. A great impostume growing in our breast, and certain death being at hand (and also despairing of health by means of Physicians) my slave came unto me, and with great confidence uttered these words unto me. If you will promise me liberty, I will pray to the Mother of my God, to restore you your former health. Out of hand, sending for the notary, I secured him liberty, if he performed his promise. Whereupon my slave kneeling down presently on the ground, and making certain signs on himself with his hand, requested me to say after him, repeating these words before me, I implore the help of our B. Lady of Loreto. Saying after, through the goodness of God, I recovered. For which cause manumitting my slave, I gave him this testimony, with votive gifts, for a monument of my Reverence, and grateful mind towards B. Marie, the mother of God the Almighty, who hath made us whole.   

The House of Loreto is enriched with the Donaries of Noble men. CHAP. XIX.  
THE House of Loreto was not more graced with miracles, than with gifts in time of julius the third. The Cardinal of Augusta brought to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift, 
The gift of the Card. of Augusta, and of many others.  a vestment of gold of curious work; a necklace of a 150. orient pearls, notably graced with golden stones of equal distance, and a coin of gold hanging, beautified with gems and precious stones. Cardinal Cesius, silver ornature for the Altar. The Cardinal of Carpa costly furniture, of cloth of gold for the Bishop, celebrating divine service with solemnity, and an other of cloth of silver, wrought with curled gold. Cardinal Medici's (who afterward was created Pope by the name of Pius the 4.) a suit for the Altar, of cloth of gold. Bernardine San-severino Prince of Bisinia, his own Image of silver to the breast, of no small weight; and ornature of crimson velvet, for the Priest & the Altar. Hercules' Duke of Ferrara goodly ornature of damask, wrought with great flowers of gold, for the Altar, Priest, and Ministers, celebrating divine service with solemnity. Vidobaldus Duke of Urbine, a suit for the Altar and the Priest, of cloth of gold. The Duke of Gravine, ornature for the Priest, of the same stuff. The Viceroy of Naples, golden vestments embroidered, for the Priest and ministers to use in time of solemn service. The Marquis of Mantua vestments of silver for the same, to use in like solemnity. Portia Cesia a golden Cope. The Countess of Palena in Abruzzo, a necklace of gold and precious stones. Constantia Leiva a Spaniard, a Crownet of gold of one pound weight. There was also a worthy gift sent out of Germany; from Ferdinand king of the Romans; that is to say, a silver Image of the B. Virgin of a foot & a half, of 31. pound weight, at whose feet doth lie prostrate Anne the Queen of Bohemia pourtured in silver: which hath a double inscription in the base. The one before.  
FERDINAND THE MIGHTY AND POTENT KING OF THE ROMANS, OF HUNGARY AND BOHEMIA, ARCHDUKE OF AUSTRIA. etc.  
SENT THIS SILVER IMAGE TO BE OFFERED, TO THE B. VIRGIN OF LORETO, THE YEAR M. D. LII. IN THE month OF MAY.  
The other behind.  
FERDINAND KING OF THE ROMANS, OF HUNGARY, AND BOHEMIA, ARCHDUKE OF AUSTRIA etc.  
IN MEMORY OF ANNE HIS BELOVED WIFE, DEDICATED AND CONSECRATED THIS HER IMAGE OF SILVER, TO THE B. VIRGIN OF LORETO, IN PERFORMANCE OF A VOW WHICH WAS MADE FOR HER RECOVERY.   

Marcellus Ceruinus the Cardinal knoweth by revelation in the sacred Chapel, that he should be Pope. CHAP. XX.  
IN this mean while Marcellus Ceruinus the Cardinal (a man famous for learning and sanctity) had made his dwelling in a town near to the House of Loreto, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  
The piette and devotion of Card. Cerninus.  called Monte-fano, which he accounted his native soil, choosing indeed a very convenient place to visit the native Cell of the B. Virgin; from whence he came to Loreto with great zeal and devotion, to say mass in the most Majestical Chapel of the whole world. After the decease of julius the third, there happeneda certain thing (in sight and event most marvelous) to Marcellus Ceruinus the Cardinal celebrating divine service at Loreto, as he was accustomed. A very white and a beautiful dove, flying peaceably up and down over his head, in the presence of many people, sometimes rested on the hands of the Sacrificant, sometimes on the Missal itself; which filled them that were present▪ with great admiration & wonder. The Priest, who (as the use is) assisted the Card. in time of the dreadful Sacrifice, thinking it to be some ordinary dove come thither by chance, assayed to drive her away. But the Cardinal well remembering that here to sore in former ages, sometimes Bishops had been designed from above, by the manifestation and showing of a white dove, forbade him to disquiet her. Whereupon he permitted the heavenly dove to rest, till the Sacrifice being ended, she flew away of her own accord. Shortly after, a heavenly vision confirmed the truth hereof unto him. For Marcellus being called to Rome by a messenger of the Pope's death, would not commit himself to his journey, and to the election of the new Pope, until he had saluted the B. Virgin of Loreto, according to his custom. And the sacred day of the B. Virgin's Annunciation being at hand, did more invite his godly mind. Therefore coming to Loreto the day before, and shutting out the rude people on the Festival day, he began to say mass with great attention in the most Majestical Cell of the B. Virgin. And in time of the dreadful Sacrifice, a little after the beginning of the Canon, remembering the Church deprived of her Pastor, and recommending her most effectually to God and the B. Virgin, our B. Lady accompanied with many heavenly spirits, 
The revelation which was showed to Card Ceruinus in the House of Loreto.  appeared unto him in celestial brightness, as he was earnest in prayer, and replenishing his soul with divine light & sweetness, told him he should be Pope, forthwith vanishing out of the sight of his astonished mind. So admirable & so strange a thing happening to Marcellus on the sudden, struck him into such a fear, that trembling at the Altar, he could scarce stand on his feet. Whereupon the Priest who assisted him in time of the dreadful Sacrifice, perceived that something was revealed to the Cardinal from above: specially because his face seemed to shine with a certain unwonted brightness, and also, all his body to be environed with a new light: which with great familiarity he reported to many others, & also to Raphael Riera, who set it down in writing. Yea and the Card. himself being importuned with the entreaty of his friends, who were present at that heavenly vision, told the whole matter, as it happened; adding withal that so great an office, as that of the high Bishop, was far beyond his desert; and therefore peradventure Almighty God would provide an other Vicar for himself. But if it were the will of God, to have such a Vicar on earth, truly the first thing that he would do, should be to preserve the Christian Commonwealth in good state, & to propagate the reverence of the House of Loreto far and near. Whereupon returning to Monte-Fano, and sending for the notary, he commanded to be set down in public record, what he was determined to do, in honour of our B. Lady of Loreto; to the end the public records might bind him to perform his promise to the Mother of God; & that the same (if perchance death prevented him, as it happened) might witness his propensive good will towards her. The records of Marcellus Ceruinus the Cardinal are yet extant in the town, which I have mentioned, whereby it doth well appear, that he purposed with himself, to increase the number of the Canons, of the Singers, of the Ministers, and also the Priests of the Society of jesus, that the sacred House might be reverenced with greater devotion and zeal of the Pilgrims, which came to visit it. Moreover he purposed to enlarge the circuit of Loreto, and to raise walls and fortresses about it: to build a new town and a new City: to grace it with a Bishop's Sea, and with absolute and mixed government: and also to make eight bordering Towns tributary unto it. And to build this City, he invented this easy and expedite way, that is to say, to invite the poorest families of all the Pope's dominions, to inhabit the new Town, partly with hope of reward, partly also with the devotion of our B. Lady of Loreto: to divide in common to the new Inhabitants, the next wood purchased with the Common treasure, that they might cut down the trees, & destroy the copses, for their greater commodity and better tilling of their land: So in short time the new City would be well provided of fruit, wine and oil enough: neither would Merchants (alured with hope of gain) fail to be there: by reason that great resort would be unto the place; whereby in time exceeding honour and reverence would be done to the B. Virgin of Loreto. But it seemed otherwise to God, whose judgements are inscrutable: for it was his holy will, that he should rather set down, in writing, his worthy purposes towards the House of Loreto, than perform them indeed. Yet assoon as Marcellus came to Rome that was easily effected, which Almighty God would have to come to pass, to wit that he should be created Pope; where by the promise of the B. Virgin was performed, but the Popes could not be; because within xxij days, having scarce begun his Popedom, he departed this life. A Bishop more memorable for his worthy determinations, than his deeds; for divers Popes imitating his godly purpose adorned the Church & the sacred House of joreto, with many goodly fortifications and gifts.   

The College of the jesuits is enlarged by Pope Paul the iv also the celebrity and wealth of Loreto is increased. CHAP. XXI.  
PAUL the fourth was of the number of them, who succeeding Marcellus & following his good determinations, did not only begin to reform the decayed discipline and manners of the Church; but also firmly purposed to amplify the state of the House of Loreto. Therefore in the beginning of his Popedom, he confirmed the ancient benefits of other Popes with a new Breve: diligently forewarded the building: increased the number of the Ministers: and finally omitted nothing, which he thought might pertain, to increase the religion of the place itself. But this was his chiefest care, grounded on the determinations of Marcellus, to enlarge the College of the Society of jesus. For although those Fathers, which were then at Loreto, bestowed greater labour on the Pilgrims, than was convenient for so small a number: yet so few were not able to deal with such a multitude of strangers, as daily increased, specially when out of remote Countries, many of different language resorted more and more unto it, whereof divers could not be confessed, for want of Priests to understand them. The Fathers of the Society, were as sorrowful as themselves, that they should return home again, frustrated of their hope and vow, which provoked the Cardinal of Carpa, to think how he might increase the number of those Fathers. For being very glad that the College which he had procured to be planted in the soil of Loreto (albeit yet slender and new) partly brought forth, and partly made show of much spiritual fruit; he healt earnestly with the Pope to enlarge it, supposing that, that would happen, which came to pass, to wit, that it would bring forth a most fruitful and plentiful harvest, when the fruits themselves were fully increased & ripe. Wherefore the 55 year of this age, by the Pope's approbation and allowance, he effected, that thirty lacking two, should be added to the former number, that forty of the Society of JESUS might be maintained at Loreto. And the Society deceived not the hope of the Cardinal nor of the Pope. For their College being thus increased with Priests expert in foreign tongues, was a great increase to the devotion of Pilgrims, and no small benefit to the House of Loreto itself. Because from that time, the Pilgrims of most Nations, finding Priests of their own Country, with whom they might freely deal without an interpreter, by their help returned home again, not only purged of their sins, but also instructed with Christian institutions and precepts. Likewise the Religion, and wealth of the House of Loreto increased in such abundant manner, that it doth well appear, the access of strangers, and the multitude of Donaries to be far greater than ever was wont. For the multitude of Pilgrims increased so much, that every way people resorted to Loreto in great troops. So that oftentimes ten thousand, now and then twenty, and sometimes also more than thirty thousand Pilgrims, came to Loreto, about the Natiultie of the B. Virgin, whereof many getting no repose, neither in the Church nor Town, filled the fields and woods round about.   

The House of Loreto is enriched with new Donaries. CHAP. XXII.  
AND with this multitude of strangers, the wealth of the House of Loreto was not a little increased; For it is very well known, that from this time forward, ten, twelve, fourteen, sixteen, and sometimes also twenty thousand Crowns, were given yearly to the treasury of the House of Loreto. Neither did any Pope ever apply any of the said treasure to his own use, and accounting the end wherefore it was given, so holy as it was. Two times only, 
Ber. Ciril.  certain money came so from thence unto the Popes, that within a while after, they repaid it thither again. For to repress the spoils of Francis Maria Duke of Urbine, the Captains of Leo the X. took six thousand Crowns out of the Sacred ark, to pay their soldiers. But when the Pope had notice thereof, forthwith he took order with the Treasurer of Picene, to repay that sum to the B. Virgin. Afterward Clement the VII. being in great want of money at the ransack of the City (as we showed before) received three thousand Crowns in loan from the B. Virgin of Loreto; which after the danger escaped, he carefully repaid unto her again: Whereby all the money, which was put into the Sacred ark, was employed on the building of Loreto, and on other uses of the Sacred House itself. But in time of Paul the 4. other Donaries were given with that money which appertained to the Sacred Ornature. A silver Image of reasonable bigness of Christ our Saviour Crucified upon mount Calvary, 
The gift of the Card. of Carpa, and of others.  with the Image of the B. Virgin and S. john expressed in silver; two silver Candlesticks a Cubit long, a silver bowl of two pound weight curiously wrought; worthy ornature for the Bishop of cloth of gold, the chiefest grace whereof was a golden button of good bigness, beset with three degrees of pearl, commonly used by Cardinals and Bishops, and a picture representing the birth of Christ, made of silk and gold, with admirable art & skill, were the Donaries of the Cardinal of Carpa. The Duke of Urbine, golden vestments for the Priest & Ministers. The Duke of Albania gave the like gift, & also the Duke of Mantua; saving that these were made of gold and silver. The Duke of Bovino a costly Pix of silver, for the most holy Eucharist, standing on the figures of Angels, a foot long. Honoratus Caietan Duke of Sermoneta, a golden vestment for the Priest, and ornature for the Altar, of cloth of gold. Augustine Auria, a silver head and two vestments for the Priest of cloth of gold. Margaret of Austria the daughter of Charles the V a rich suit for the Altar and the Priest, of siluer-cloth of tissue. The marquess of Guasto a golden Casket of excellent workmanship of two pound weight: and an other from the Duchess of Ariano, adorned with pillars of silver, guilt. The Duchess of Mantua or nature of silver for the Priest and ministers celebrating with solemnity. Finally a worthy vestment of gold for the Priest, adorned with gold and precious jewels, and also with a fair picture of the B. Virgin, compassed about with the sun, on the back of the vestment was the gift of the Queen of Hungary.   

The House of Loreto is honoured of the French Army, with the salvation of many soldiers CHAP. XXIII.  
ABOUT that time war beginning between the King of Spain and the Pope, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  the new tempest of war which troubled Italy, did not a little grace the House of Loreto, The Duke of Guise being called in by the Pope, with consent of the French King, brought with him into Italy great forces of the French, to defend the Pope, and to recover the Kingdom of Naples. At which time, the religion of the House of Loreto, and the divine providence towards her, greatly flourished. For when great Companies of soldiers gathered out of divers Nations, wandered freely up and down all Picene, this sacred House of Loreto (famous for her wealth) permitted not any one of all those Companies to covet her inestimable treasure; such, and so great devotion towards her sacred House, did the B. Virgin imprint in the hearts of all these soldiers, in time of this tumultuous war. And as long as Guise made his station in Picene, the Companies of so great an army, were rather a spectacle than any damage at all to the people of Loreto, by favour of the Mother of God, who did not only protect and defend her own state, but also her Clients. For although many of this army were infected with Caluins' heresy; yet there was no Band, nor any Company at all, which at the very first sight of the Church of Loreto (stirred as it were with devotion towards her) came not strait to visit and reverence her, made not vows, presented not gifts. Whereby the Captains of these Companies and Bands, came unto the sacred House one after another, with great quietness of their soldiers, and departed more peaceably than they came, promising or performing their vows before the Altar of the B. Virgin. Besides in honour of our B. Lady, they did skirmish in warlike fashion with their weapons and furniture, before her sacred House. But shortly after, the devotion and piety of the soldiers made a more grateful spectacle in the sight of god, and is holy Mother. For many washing away their sins by sacred Confession, rested in peace, having before received the most holy banquet of the Eucharist. And certain of the heretics, reduced to the way of truth, and abjuring their errors, were reconciled to the Catholic Church, and also purified with the Sacraments of Confession, and of the Eucharist, by favour of the Mother of God, who turneth the perfidiousness of the impious, to the worship and piety of Almighty God.   

By making a vow to our B. Lady of Loreto, the City of Vtina is preserved from the sickness, increasing round about. CHAP. XXIIII.  
AT that time, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  the House of Loreto was ennobled with many and sundry miracles. Vtina, a City of Carinthia, for greatness and worth, second only to Aquileia, eschewed great danger of sickness by the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto. The year 1555. a terrible plague spreading abroad in the Territories of Venice and Carinthia, made every where great immortality among the Inhabitants. And the Magistrates of the City of Vtina, seeing the sickness creep on, and daily approach unto them, entered into Counsel of necessity, and resolving to make a public Vow, invocated the B. Virgin of Loreto, committing their City to her protection and patronage: who frustrated not the supplication and prayer of her Clients. Because for space of two years (all which time the plague was very hot, and wasted all the towns thereabout) the protection of our B. Lady was so present unto them, that only Vtina remained free from the common evil. Wherefore the City of Vtina not more religious in making, than in performing her vow, set forward a solemn supplication to the House of Loreto. Three hundred gentlemen, before whom was carried a most curious Image of Christ Crucified, came all in white garments, & regardable in one livery, to present either public or private Donaries to the B. Virgin of Loreto. Who at their entering into the Church, with much emulation began to cast their bodies on the ground, and with weeping eyes to give manifold thanks to God and his Mother, not only in the name of their whole City, but every one also for his own particular. Then rising up, and embracing each other with brotherly affection, they renewed their weeping, and bedewed themselves with mutual tears. And so notable a wailing springing from piety, caused the like in them that were standers by, none almost of the beholders forbearing tears in the pious lamentation of such men. Which done, going into the most sacred Cell, and most devoutly saluting the B. Virgin Mother of God, they set down their gifts before her, among which there was a votive Table, curiously painted with this inscription.  
THE CONFRATERNITY OF THE MOST HOLY CRUCIFIX, BROUGHT, AND DEDICATED IT TO THE MOST GLORIOUS VIRGIN OF LORETO, FOR PRESERVING THE CITY OF VTINA, AND HER TERRITORIES, FROM THE PLAGVE; THE YEAR OF MAN'S SALVATION M. D. LVI.   

Sight is restored to two that were blind. CHAP. XXV.  
THREE years after, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  the B. Virgin of Loreto showed a more admirable spectacle, both to the inhabitants and Pilgrims. A young maid of Sienna, waiting on no mean Matron of Venice, had her sight so decayed in the service of her Mistress, that at last she saw nothing at all, and there appeared signs in her eyes, which gave evident testimony thereof. When she had assayed the help of Physicians in vain, by commandment of her Mistress, she was brought to Loreto by two women, not doubting, but that her sight would be restored unto her, by the help and prayer of our B. Lady. The young maid being brought into the most Majestical Cell of the B. Virgin between those two women, eftsoones kneeled down, and with many tears, earnestly began to call on the Mother of God. The Chapel was full of Inhabitants and strangers, who likewise prayed to the B. Virgin, either moved with pity of the maid, or else in suspense with the expection of the thing: And behold, as she was praying to our B. Lady with fervent devotion & trickling tears, upon the sudden she was so comforted, that she cried out; Now I see some light: And withal earnestly entreated them that were present, to assist her with their devout and godly prayers. All being fervent in prayer to Almighty God for her, within a while the maid (joyful at the success) cried out again; Now I see the burning torthes and lamps before the B. Virgin: which did so vehemently inflame the burning zeal of the suppliants, that it caused tears of joy to issue out of all their eyes. And at length the maid herself uttered these words with thankfulness. Now I see the Image of our B. Lady; Now I see the Donaries which are about her. O clemency of God, & his B. Mother! O divine and memorable benefit of them both! As she repeated these & such like words, with tears of joy in her thanksgiving, all begun to weep in token of thanksgiving to god & the B. Virgin which continued half an hour. And the same remaining with many of them after their departure out of the sacred Chapel, filled the hearts of them which came thither with like feeling & admiratlon: specially when those, who a little before saw that the young maid was blind, now perceived that her sight was clear & perfect. There was scarce any thing of like quality, done in a greater assembly of people. For this wonder happened at the feast of Easter, at which time the House of Loreto is usually frequented with great concourse of people. Raphaell Riera: who committed it to writing, delivereth, that himself was present at the miracle; and I myself received it of others of undoubted credit, who said that they were also present, to wit, the 59 year of this age, Gaspar Doctus being Covernour of Loreto, who commanded that so evident a miracle should be set down in public record. But the thing was done with true simplicity: For the names of the maid, & of her Mistress were omitted, as though they nothing at all pertained to give credit unto the miracle. I believe they saw the Evangelists do the like in evident miracles. Less famous, but no less admirable is that, which is rehearsed of Thomas of Parma, who being quite blind with a grievous infirmity of his eyes, and a certain night much molested with bitter pain thereof, erected himself on the bed where he lay, and kneeling down, implored the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto with many tears; adding this vow unto his prayer, if he recovered his sight, he would go to the House of Loreto to give her thanks: and so reposed again, putting great confidence in the B. Virgin. His hope deceived him not. For in the morning when he awaked, he saw the light with sound and perfect eyes, and giving due thanks to the Mother of God, went to Loreto and performed his vow.   

A shipmaster of Genua is delivered from double danger. CHAP. XXVI.  
AT that time another came to Loreto bound by double vow, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  and favoured with a double miracle. Paul a famous Pilot of Genua, returning from Gasconie in France to Genua, was suddenly brought into great fear of shipwreck by a raging tempest, which enforced him to cast all the merchandise into the sea. And the storm beginning to force the ship more vehemently, all conceived so great fear therewith, that the Passengers and Mariners forsaking the vessel to save themselves by swimming, he alone remained in his ship, desiring to preserve it in as great safety as himself, being indeed the chiefest part of all his wealth. When he saw his vessel full of water, he trusted wholly in his vow, and invocated the B. Virgin of Loreto for himself and his ship. Not in vain: For that invocation gave him such strength and courage, that he alone (assaying it with great force,) hoist up the sail, and hoping that his prayers were heard, endeavoured to pump the water out of the ship. Mean while the tempest was assuaged, & the ship, with the wind and our B. Lady guiding her, came to the haven of Genua, with no less admiration of himself, them of others, to see a great ship half full of water, arrive safe at the harbour, guided by the Pilot alone, executing the office of all the Mariners. But Paul having obtained his vow, was slower in performing it then was fitting, either expecting a more convenient time afterward, or else thinking to prefer other things before that business. But his delay was not long unpunished. For when the year came about, the very same day, as he sailed in the same ship (that the time might put him in mind both of the benefit & also of the offence) he suffered shipwreck again with his little son. Whereupon presently the memory of the danger which he lately avoided by the help of the B. Virgin, and of his negligence in performing his votive pilgrimage pricking his guilty conscience, with abundant tears he asked pardon of God, & entreated the experienced help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, for himself and his son, binding the promise of the old, with a new vow. His prayer deceived him not. For seeking his little son among the waves, he found him without any harm at all, and taking him up on his shoulders, carried him safe to land, swimming a great way along the furious sea, all the rest of the Passengers and Mariners being overwhelmed & drowned, that the destruction of others might make the heavenly gift, more notable. Assoon as he came to the shore, not more joying his own, than the safety of his little son in the midst of such imminent danger, he fell down on his knees, commanding his son to do the same: & lifting up his hands towards heaven, with flowing tears of joy gave hearty thanks (next after God) to the B. Marry, that she did not frustrate the vow of an ungrateful man, that failed in his. And because doubtless the delay of performing his devotion, caused him this new danger, he promised that no negligent stay, should now hinder him. Wherefore fearing if that he went unto his own house, some domestical care might also defer his pilgrimage, & the better to recompense the great negligence which he committed in performing his former vow, he set forward towards Loreto, omitting to visit his House and Country: and entreating and begging victuals to sustain himself and his litler son, he came to the sacred House, deserving to be remembered, not only for recovering of his ship in his first danger, but afterwards for losing it, and finding & saving of his son; & now also as much commendation for performing his vow with devotion, as blame at first for neglecting it.   

A young man is delivered out of prison: another twice hanged is delivered from death and punishment. CHAP. XXVII.  
ABOUT that time the B. Virgin of Loreto showed herself as admirable in delivering men from punishment, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  as in calming the sea. Augustine of Rocca Valdonia (a town of the territory of Sienna) was accused of a self crime and committed to prison where the innocent man suffering much torture, called on the B. Virgin of Loreto to whom he was exceedingly devoted. Neither in vain. For awaking out of his sleep in the quiet night, he saw the iron manacles wherewith he was fettered, fall from his hands of themselves, & in continent our B. Lady giving him advice and strength to fly, himself endeavouring to dig through the wall of the prison, pulled out certain mortar with his hand, and opened a hole which gave him means to escape. But two doors remained that hindered his flight, which by chance finding miraculously open & unguarded, he escaped with safety, not only finding free egress, but also secure defence, by gift of our B. Lady. But this man was delivered from imminent, another from present death. Francis of Ferrara, a simple but a devout man, travailing through Picene the 56. year of this age, fell into the forces of the Duke of Guise, who waged war for Paul the 4. against Philip King of Spain, of whom being demanded the cause of trave I and courteously entertained, he sent him to the General of the Pope's Army, with the letters of the French Captain & certain Characters (whereof they were agreed between themselves) sowed in his doublet, altogether ignorant thereof. But being intercepted and searched by the watch of the adverse Army, he was brought to Marcus Antonius Columna at Anagnia a City of Campania, who by the letters and characters of the enemy found in his doublet, thinking him verily to be a spy, forthwith commanded the simple Contreyman to be hanged. And albeit he was presently led unto the place of execution, with a great troop of soldiers, and Citizens of Anagnia following him; yet he did not despair of himself. For having leave to say a few prayers, he fell down on his knees, and first ask pardon for his sins, and then calling on our B. Lady of Loreto. It is not unknown to thee B. Virgin Mother of God (saith he) that I die guiltless, and in no wise privy to these letters. Therefore I pray and beseech thee, to make thy son merciful unto me, that of his great clemency forgiving me my other offences (whereby I confess to have deserved greater punishment) by some sign or other he may vouchsafe to declare my innocency. Having spoken thus in a loud voice, he went to die with a confident mind, Whereupon the hangman tying him to the gallows, cast him of the ladder, pressing his shoulders with his feet, that he might leave him for dead. A wonderful thing to be spoken and seen: For the seely man had hung but a while, but the rope broke of itself, and he fell down to the ground, seeming to be safe and sound. But the miracle was esteemed a chance, that it might be more notable. For the hangman tying a stronger rope about his neck, present●●e●ed the poor wretch to the gallows again, and cast him of the ladder, wresting his neck more forcibly them before. But behold, by the povidence of God and his B. Mother, the rope burst again, and Francis falling down to the ground, and breaking his head with the fall, lay as it were without life, Whereupon the miserable sight of the poor Countryman moved the multitude thereabout, and the strong rope breaking of itself, brought them into such admiration, that all recalled to mind his prayer and invocation of the B. Virgin of Loreto, when he went to suffer. For which cause many entreating pardon for the innocent young man, & the beloved of our B Lady, thought it wickedness to have him made away by mortal men, who was twice preserved by the goodness of God. And Marcus Antonius of his own natural disposition, & exceeding devotion towards the B. Virgin of Loreto, pardoned him more willingly than he was requested. Also the City Anagnia rightly setting down a testimony of the miracle, as it happened, delivered it to Ferrara himself, which he, coming to Loreto to give thanks to the B. Virgin, left there with her, for a perpetual monument thereof to posterity.   

A woman of Sicily having her throat cut, is cured. CHAP. XXVIII.  
IT is nothing leffe, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  but peradventure more admirable, which now is delivered of a woman. A young maid of Sicily of more beauty than honesty, (whose name we thought good to suppress to save her credit) being brought from Sicily to Venice, and there many years together making gain of her dishonest body, and heaping up good store of wealth, at last had a desire to see her Country & return home again. Therefore turning all her wealth into money, with a familiar mate of hers she went towards Loreto, intending to wash away the filth of her former life by Confeslion, & to salute the B. Virgin of Loreto, that then she might go more joyfully into Sicily. But assoon as they came to the wood of Ravenna, that good companion seeing all round about secure, and the hope of the prey greatly provoking him, set on her unawares with a drawn sword; upon with a deadly weapon, invocated the B. Virgin of Loreto. But the thief (our B. Lady deferring her help to have it more notable) cast her from the horse whereon she road with the wound of the sword, pursued her when she was down, and gave her many blows earnestly imploring the help of our B. Lady. At length lest any hope of life should remain, the cruel wretch cut her throat, when she was half dead, and taking away her gold and jewels, and leaving her miserably wounded, departed from her. Who tumbling in her own blood even ready to yield up the ghost, recommended her agonizing soul to the B. Virgin; and in that very instant was made partaker of the undoubted help of her Patroness. For presently with great glory of heavenly brightness, our B. Lady appeared unto her in a white garment, and bidding her be of good comfort, gently embraced her, cherished her in her lap in this her extremity, healed the wounds of her body with her touch, replenished her sorrowful heart with heavenly joy, and then admonishing her to lead a chaste life, vanished out of her sight. Wherewith the woman awaking, as it were out of a heavy sleep, and viewing her body all over, saw that the scars of her late wounds were closed up: & feeling with her hand perceived also that the deadly wound of her throat was perfectly cured. Wherefore with exceeding joy, she fell down on her knees, and next after God, gave manifold thanks to her most assured Patroness for so worthy a benefit. Yet one thing did disturb her great joy, which was, to be left in the wood by the thief in her bloody & torn smock. But the B. Virgin Mother of God, was as careful to provide for the naked shamefastness of the woman, as she had been to prevent the imminent danger of death. For behold, as she was giving thanks to our B. Lady with great devotion, certain Mulatiers passed that way by chance, who taking compassion to see a young woman without clothes, and imbrued with blood, & also pilgrimaging to Loreto (as by herself they understood) forth with clothed her with a coverlet, & putting her on a mule carried her to Ancona, in token of their devotion to the B. Virgin of Loreto. Whereupon assoon as she had begged some mean apparel, she went rejoicing to Loreto, to wash away the blemishes of her life by sacred Confession, & to perform her vow to our B. Lady; every where intending to publish her singular help, by whose benefit without all doubt (next after God) she was preserved alive, and restored to perfect health, when she was at the point of death itself. To confirm the truth of this miracle, she showed the new sign of the deadly wound in her throat, and by the providence of God, there appeared no obscure token of so great a wonder. For about her neck did glitter a golden scar, in manner of a chain, that you may plainly understand, that her deadly wound was touched and cured by the heavenly hand of our B. Lady. Which truly to all that beheld it (whereof Raphaell Riera, who set it down in writing, was one) was not only a great monument of the miracle, but even a miracle of itself. And the woman being either alured with the sweetness of the House of Loreto, or else desiring to render due thanks to the Mother of God so well deserving of her, preferred Loreto before her Country; where she lived many years so devoutly, that she would receive the holy mysteries very often, & then also revisit the B. Virgin of Loreto, to excite the Inhabitants to the service of God and his B. Mother, with singular example of innocency and piety.   

A certain man of Genua doubting of the House of Loreto, being well punished, repenteth. CHAP. XXIX.  
ABOUT that time Almighty God established the religion of the Cell of Loreto with a famous miracle, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  lest any hereafter should doubt thereof. The year 1557. a certain Genueses (whose name we conceal to save his credit) borne of no mean parentage, but more curious than godly, went on horseback from Genua to Loreto. Who in the way, by instinct doubtless of the devil, first began to suspect, then also to believe, that the House of Loreto was no ancient monument of our B. Lady, but a new mention or superstition and avarice. But the wicked cogitation of the mad man was not long unpun shed. For the very same day, the horse on which he road fell down upon him, and oppressed him so greatly with the weight of all his body, that the miserable man lay bruised and half dead under his horse in the high way, without any hope of help, because he had none in his company, to do any thing for him. His misery gave him understanding. Whereupon turning rashues into devotion, he called on our B. Lady of Loreto Neither in vain. For being presently desivered of the horse, he rose up safe and sound. But the present clemency of God, did not expel the conceived frenzy of the mad man; who within a while returning to his wicked conceit again, made the miracle more notable. For having gone but a little way, and the devil tempting him more vehemently than before, he thought with himself, that the wonders which were reported of the House of Loreto, were altogether false. But not without punishment. For the House of Loreto being now in sight, the blindness of his mind broke out into the body, by a dimness which took away his sight, & presently strength began to fail him, not well in his wits. Therefore trembling for fear, and seeming like to one dismayed, and not able to guide his horse, by the horse himself he was brought to Loreto, which stood still at the next Inn, where almost fainting and ready to fall down, he was supported by the host, who taking him by the hand, lead him into a chamber, & laid him in a bed: where carefully recalling to mind the manifest wrath of Almighty God twice experienced in the same journey; and also fearing greater punishment by the present loss of his sight, he began to weep bitterly. This fear was his health. For being assisted by the grace of God, he repent, and hoping that a penitent might have safe reguge, by the favour and clemency of the B. Virgin, he besought pardon of God and his B. Mother: promised and vowed, that he would never after, otherwise believe of the Cell of Loreto, them the Christian world believed. A wonder to be spoken: The sight of his eyes came unto him with the light of his mind. Whereupon going to the House of Loreto, & wiping away the blemishes of his life by sacred Confession, he entered into the most Majestical Cell, and devoutly saluted the B. Virgin, rejoicing to see her with those eyes, which of late he lost by offending her, and now by pleasing her, received again.   

The Violatours of the most sacred Chapel are punished by miracle for their rashness. CHAP. XXX.  
SHORTLY after Almighty God did evidently punish the Violatours of the most sacred House. 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  For about the 58. year of this age a certain Noble & a wealthy person of a chief City of Italy (the name of the man and his country is passed in silence, because he himself would have it concealed) came to visit the House of Loreto, and to be a document, that the rashness of them which adventure the like, is not unounished. Who at the same time taking a little stone out of the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, reserved it at his House, with all honour and reverence: Yet that reverence mitigated not the wrath of God. For Almighty God justly revenging the injury of his B. Mother, that miserable man paid for his sacrilege, with the deprivement of his children, & the loss of all his goods, & also begun to be troubled & vexed with a disease more continual than dangerous. Therefore being a man otherwise prudent and grave, at last he opened his eyes, and perceived that Almighty God did punish him for some wickedness, which he had committed. And though he saw all things happen unto him, in such sort, as they might plainly set before him the wrath of Almighty God; yet by what default of his it came, he saw not. Therefore being much disquieted with heaviness both of body & mind, he endeavoured to mitigate the wrath of God with all his might. But the occasion thereof, remaining with him, albeit ignorant thereof, made all in vain. Then an other hope (this proving of no ●orce) came unto his mind: which was the B. Virgin of Loreto, to whom he was marvelously addicted, whose advice and he●pe, he devoutly implored. Without delay, by our B. Lady herself he was certified, that the stone which he had taken out of the House of Loreto, was the cause of the heavenly wrath, which in no wise could be pacified, but by restoring the sacred stone thither again. Then with flowing tears, the poor man besought pardon of God and his B. Mother, for his religious boldness, as he thought, and desired himself to bring back to Loreto, that which he had taken thence. His prayers were to good effect: For this also the Mother of God forgave him, as soon as he acknowledged his fault, whereby the disease was taken away, and he going cheerfully to Loreto, restored the stone, and performed his vow. At that time there happened another, not much unlike to this. A woman of the Territory of Picene, being long married & having no children, was greatly troubled in mind, how she might seek every where for remedy against her barrenness. Therefore, I know not who said unto her, to gain the woman's favour, there was no presenter remedy against sterility, than the relics of the House of Loreto, preserved with pious and Religious respect: if she took never so little thence, she was promised to be a Mother in short time; which was as foolishly believed as promised. But by the manifest wrath of God, revenging her bold act, she carried home the stone which she had taken thence, with an ague on her. And the sickness of the body did molest & trouble her mind so much, that she was not more tormented with the burning of the fever, then of her Conscience. Neither was she delivered from that disquiet, until she sent to Loreto for a Priest, powering out many tears, in token of true repentance, restored the stone which she had taken from the sacred House: whereby she obtained not only pardon, but also perfect health. The like boldness cost the Sclavonian Merchants dearly, who buying corn in Picene, privily hid in their ship, a stone which they had stolen out of the sacred Cell of the Mother of God. But albeit they deceived men; yet they could not deceive God, the revenger of their sacrilege. For as soon as they were gone out of the haven, a foul storm of tempestuous weather by and by arising, brought them into so great fear, that with trembling it enforced them to cast their Merchandise into the sea: and when they saw themselves in danger of drowning, at last they preceiued that Almighty God did punish them for his B. Mother's sake. Then weeping and holding up their hands towards heaven, all at once began to entreat and crave pardon of God. And the wrath of God being mitigated with their prayers and tears, did also assuage and calm the sea. Whereupon assoon as they were delivered out of this danger, they returned back to Loreto, to restore the sacred stone to the B. Virgin, & then sailed into Dalmatia with good success. Sickness also (as if it were the executioner of God's justice) chastised divers of the Pilgrims, who at their departure had taken with them some particle of the sacred stones, or of the mortar of the beloved House, which left them not, until they returned back again, and with tears confessing their temerity and rashness, restored to the Mother of God, that which they had stolen & taken from her.   

The robbers of the Sacred Chapel are apprehended by miracle, and put to death. CHAP. XXXI.  
BUT the justice of Almighty God showed itself more gentle to those whom some colour of religion deceived, and more grievously punished the boldness of others, whom avarice provoked to commit a most wicked act. About that time certain Officers of the House of Loreto, of purpose conveyed away the sacred treasures, which they ought to have defended from such as went about to steal them. But Almighty God speedily chastised their heinous sacrilege, with deserved punishment. For assoon as they had hid all that they had stolen, in a ship which was in the harbour, they made haste to steal away. But as they sailed along the shore of Picene, foul weather brought them back to the place, where they shipped themselves: whereby falling into the hands of the Officers of Recanati, they were apprehended in their manifest theft: and for examples sake (lest others should adventure the like) were presently hanged before the House of Loreto, paying for their wicked sacrilege, with that ignominious death. But others hoping to escape shortly after, were provoked and tempted to assay the like mischief. For a certain forlorn wretch having a great desire to rob the most sacred Chapel, and getting a fit companion for his sacrilegious attempt, prepared engines to open the locks of the doors, and of the chest where the money is kept: and when he had provided all things for that purpose, craftily hid himself in the sacred Cell of the B. Virgin. Whereupon going about to execute his sacrilegious desire in the dead of the night, he gathered the sacred Donaries of gold and silver into one place; And when he had opened the ark and the doors of the sacred Chapel, he also assayed to burst open the leaves of the Church-door itself: which assoon as he had broken open, he began to look about to seek the complice of his wickedness; who at that very hour (for so they had agreed) was to be in readiness in the Church porch, to hide the sacred gifts, and the money in an appointed place. But behold whiles he intentively looked about, he saw a company of armed people at hand (a multitude of heavenly spirits, as it was supposed) watching the House of the B. Virgin, whose unexpected presence struck him into so great fear, that he speedily shut to the doors, & hide himself, thinking they sought his life. But the unhappy man having escaped that danger (as he thought) and avarice egging him on, began to adventure the thing again. whereupon opening the doors of the Church again, and the third time, to seek out the complice of his mischief, always that heavenly company met him in arms, and with all speed forced him to fly again into the Church. Having thus spent the night between hope and fear, at last he was more solicitous of his life, then of the prey, and determined to departed without his purpose. For the morning being ready to approach, he assayed to get away by a back door of the Church; but still being frighted with the encounter of that heavenly watch, which we have mentioned, he fled back again into the most sacred Cell, where remained manifest signs of his attempted sacrilege, that, the place which was the witness of his wickedness, might also manifestly declare the same. And the keepers of the most sacred Chapel, coming upon him unawares, and finding the doors broken open, and the sacred Donaries gathered into one place, began easily to suspect his intent and purpose. And the lewd fellow himself trembling with a guilty conscience, seeming to discover his intended wickedness, was strait apprehended: and being examined, confessed the whole matter. Wherefore with the partner of his filthy sacrilege, he suffered deserved punishment, to be no small document of the providence of Almighty God, towards the welfare and good of the sacred House of Loreto.   

Two young men are delivered from the servitude of the Devil. CHAP. XXXII.  
MOREOVER other wicked, and almost forlorn men, were reduced to an honest life, and to the way of salvation, by the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto. There was a certain young man, as notorious for his birth, as for his wicked life; who in a quarrel received a grievous wound in his knee, for offending Alm. God; for which cause he could not cure the wound, until he began to mitigate the wrath of God. For having wasted good part of his substance in physic and surgery, the cure was more likely to bring him into fear of greater inconvenience, than any good hope of recovery, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  whereby he mightily feared speedy death, or at least perpetual lameness. For which cause rejecting help of Surgeons, he put all his hope and trust in the B. Virgin of Loreto, and repenting with tears (the truest signs of penance) began to pacify the wrath of God, and to implore the help of his B. Mother, making this vow unto her, if he escaped this danger, he would go to the House of Loreto with gifts, to give her thanks. A wonderful thing to be said. Speaking these words with great repentance of mind, the wound was presently cured, and he recovered perfect health of body. But health restored to an ungrateful and dissolute man, was almost his destruction: who quite forgetting so great a benefit, thought it not enough to neglect his vow, unless he also abused the benefit of his recovery, with the licentiousness of his former life. For being inclined to worse things, at last he came to that pass, by giving himself wholly to lust, that he had scarce the grace to repent: So much were his later works, worse than his former. He had been undone, if Alm. God had not looked on the outcast man, and by heavenly favour brought him again into the way of salvation. For shortly after, he seemed to hear a silent voice, bidding him go to Loreto, and speedily perform the vow, which he had made: and then (lo) he obeyed, and went to Loreto, to worship the Mother of God with gifts. But no small thing to be spoken of, prevented the fruit of his votive pilgrimage. For lust had so thralled him unto her, that still sticking in the same filth, he refused to go to Confession, though Alm. God reached forth his helping hand. Yet because his conscience pricked him, and permitted him to have no rest, first he began to go round about the sacred House of the B. Virgin, and the place appointed to hear Confessions; then leisurely to view the form of the Church, and the votive tables hanging about the walls: within a while by impulsion of the wicked devil he also departed out the Church itself, but presently by heavenvly grace returned thither again. You would have thought he had been mad, and distracted in mind, so far did it repent him, sometimes of his purpose, sometimes of his penance. And being scarce well in his wits, he was so disquieted in mind and in body, that he could neither abide the sight of the Priests, nor the remorse of his own conscience. And also being in great perplexity, and doubtful what to do, he remained three days in these cogitations: But at last through the goodness of God and his B. Mother, new zeal of salvation was enkindled in him. For by chance being present at divine service, he seemed to hear a voice from heaven blaming his delay, & commanding him to go to one of the Priests there prepared, and to disburden his soul of his offences with purpose of better life. That voice pierced and bowed his obstinate mind, and so at last being overcome, or rather overcoming all impediments, he peesentlie changed his minde●, and did as he was commanded. Whereby getting happily out of the sink of lust, he washed away all the blemishes of his life with great abundance of tears, and rejoicing with heavenly joy, as men are wont to do, gave manifold thanks to God and his B. Mother, that he was twice delivered from imminent danger of body and soul, by her protection and favour. There was the like condition of an other young man, & the event not unlike, who being wholly given to lust, & those things that follow it, in short time spent all his Father's substance in wickedness & filthiness of life: & whiles he strived to bring himself to all naughtiness & dishonesty, at last the matter came to that pass, that he was a scorn, not only to mortal men, but even to the monsters of hell. For the devils appearing unto him in horrible shapes, & contemptuously beating him with stripes as their slave, did not only insult over the body, but also over the soul of the unhappy young man, threatening to lay upon him more grievous & horrible punishment (I believe) to the end he might despair with the grievousness of his torments; so cruel & incessant is the government of the devil over wicked men. And the wretch being thus oppressed with misery on every side, was even now almost overcome with desperation. But as he was thus tormented in himself, & looking to & fro, a light appearing suddenly unto him, put him in hope of salvation, and brought him in mind of the B. Virgin of Loreto, of whose power & benignity, he had heard many wonderful things. Whereby his guilty soul being truly penitent for the impurity of his former life, with flowing tears he began to invocate the Mother of God, that by her favour he might pacify Almighty God, & turn from him his heavenly wrath. But forthwith that infernal company resisted him, going about to embrace this wholesome determination; who turning contempt into hatred, & mingling threats with stripes, endeavoured to frighten & withdraw the poor man from his good purpose. But at last Christian constancy overcame the importunity of the devils, & by the favour and protection of the Mother of God, the young man determined to persevere in his purpose well begun. Therefore prostrating his body and mind before his most benign Patroness, with all hope and confidence he implored her aid against those infernal furies; beseeching her to take from his neck, the yoke of that most miserable bondage, that being once delivered and freed thereof, he might go joyfully to Loreto, to purify his soul from sin, and to give due thanks to her his Deliveresse. His hope & prayer was not in vain. For out of hand Alm. God gave him great hope of heavenly help, and replenished him with no small joy, driving those troublesome tormentors far away, whose noise & roaring was so easily perceived, that they confessed (though with much unwillingness) that they could do nothing against Marie. whereupon scarce his own man for joy, he went presently to Loreto as he vowed, & washing away all the blemishes of his life in the Sacrament of Confession, gave hearty thanks to God & the B. Virgin; & to certain Priests (whereof Raphaell Riera was one, desirous of such news in few) he joyfully declared the heavenly benefit, which he had received by the favour of the B. Virgin of Loreto.   

She also delivereth a young man whom the devil had brought into bondage, by restoring unto him a writing of his own hand. CHAP. XXXIII.  
MOREOVER the Patronage of the B. Virgin of Loreto saved another young man, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  whom raging lust drew headlong to utter perdition, For being of desperate affection, desire and audacity; he gave himself wholly to forbidden pleasures; and overcoming many matrons with his dishonesty, he burned with the excessive love of a certain woman, whom seeing he could gain, neither by increatie, nor money, nor force, nor deceit, he determined to experience the most desperate course of all. Making means therefore to the devil by Art-magicke, he reovested to be made partaker of his desire, shew●ng himself ready to condescend to all, to enjoy that which he so earnestly sought. whereupon by commandment of the devil, he forsook Christ, and gave and delivered himself wholly to him, and which is more, did also swear unto him by prescript words, and bound himself unto it by hand-writing: so far doth the love of pleasure blind impure minds. But when he had obtained his desire, satiety (as it happeneth) bred loath somnes, and by the goodness and grace of god, he weighed the greatness of his offence with mature consideration. And being truly penitent for his wicked sin, and conceiving some hope of pardon, he began to seek for heavenly help, and to call on Almighty God, and his B. Mother, Mean time the B. Virgin of Loreto, and the Priests of the sacred House (endued with most ample faculty to release sins) coming to his mind, without delay made him to go to Loreto A mighty God being the author and guide of his journey; not doubting but there to find remedy against so many evils. His hope deceived him not. For assoon as he came thither, making means to confer with a discreet Priest, he declared unto him his mournful state, and asked him, whether he might have any hope to be saved. And first the Priest remained somewhat amazed at the grievousness of the offence, but then declaring unto him the greatness thereof; he put him in hope of salvation, if by prayer, fasting and voluntary punishment of his body, he would wholly give himself to pacify Almighty God. When he refused no punishment at all, the Priest promised him, if he did what he was commanded, he would willingly hear him, and by the grace of God, would also take away so great an offence. At parting he exhorted him, to punish his body with fasting, with haircloth & stripes, for the space of three days, to implore the help of the B. Virgin, and by her, to ask humble pardon of Almighty God for his grievous sin; and he also promised to say Mass for his salvation all that time; whereby there was good confidence on either side. The three days being so spent, before he gave him absolution, the Priest thought good to wrest his hand-writing from the devil, that he might have no right nor interest at all in him. Therefore he exhorted the Penitent to retire himself into the most Majestical Chapel, and earnestly to importune the Mother of God with prayer and tears, until he got his hand-writing, out of the devils hands. He obeyed, very desirous of salvation and security, with undoubted hope to obtain it by the intercession of the B. Virgin Mother of God. whereupon prostrating his body before the B. Virgin, with flowing tears he earnestly besought her, that she would vouchsafe to get him his wicked hand-writing, and to work his salvation and health. By a great Miracle he had his desire. For as he repeated these verses with all devotion, 
A Mother show thyself,  
He take our plaints by the,  
That being for us borne,  
Vouchsafed thy Son to be.  He saw the hand-writing fall suddenly into his hands, and scarce crediting himself for the unexpected joy thereof, with new tears he gave manifold thanks to the B. Virgin. whereupon departing presently out of the sacred Chapel, he went joyfully unto the Priest, and showed him his hand-writing gotten again by the benefit of the Mother of God, which was stuffed with so many horrible execrations and curses against Christ, & himself that wrote it, that it may easily appear to be dictated by the everlasting enemy of mankind. Notwithstanding the power of God, more potent than all diabolical deceit, loosed so great a band, whereby that sinful soul given by vow to hell itself, by favour of the Mother of God, was set in the liberty of the children of God, that no wicked nor desperate man should despair of salvation (if he himself will not perish) nor doubt of the clemency of God, who hath freely given his B. Mother, a Patroness to offenders for their salvation.   
The end of the third Book.   

THE FOURTH BOOK OF THE HISTORY OF LORETO: Collected by the Reverend F. HORATIUS TURSELLINUS Of the Society of JESUS.  

The care of Pope Pius FOUR and of the Cardinal of Urbine, in adorning the House of Loreto. CHAP. I.  
THIS mean while Pius succeeded Paul the IV. whose Popedom, 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  as it was more joyful to Italy by reason of peace, so was it more notable in adorning the House of Lerote. For Pius built most of the higher porch of the Bishop's Palace; 
The benefits and gifts of Pius the 4.  made the old hospital more convenient and commodious, by adding new building unto it: & exempting the House of Loreto out of the jurisdiction of the people of Recanati, made it a free State, the 65. year of this age. The cause whereof was, for that they were accused to be negligent in execution of justice, and suffering the walls to decay in many places. whereupon the town of Loreto, was restored to her former liberty by Pius the FOUR about 30. years after Paul the III. had committed it to the Government of the City of Recanati; who also commanded the Governor of Loreto, to repay eight thousand Crowns to the Citizens of Recanati, albeit they should refuse it. But the piety of the good Pope, was not more notable in augmenting the State of Loreto, then in adorning the B. Virgin herself. For he supplied the number of the Canons, and of the Officers not a little diminished; with his Pontifical Breve established the College of the Society of JESUS, which Paul had enlarged, and also increased it with revenues. About which time, the Cardinal of Carpa departing this mortal life, he gave the Patronship of Loreto to the Cardinal of Urbine who in piety and care towards the B. Virgin of Loreto was inferior to none of the former Patrons. For first he committed the Government of the House of Loreto to Pompeius Pallanterius; by whose direction he caused the Thole of the Church to be adorned on the inside with costly marble work. Also at the foot of a hill which is near to Loreto, and in the high way that goeth to the haven of Recanati, he made a commodious and well adorned fountain for Pilgrims, and afterward by other Governors, did many more notable things as in due place shall be said.   

The care of the Picentians in defending the House of Loreto against the Turks: & the protection of the B. Virgin towards her own House. CHAP. II.  
AT that time the terror of the Turkish navy coming to Loreto, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  did manifestly show the devotion of the Picentians to our B. Lady, & likewise the benevolence of our B. Lady towards the Picentians. Word was brought by the Scouts, that a great navy of Turks (in which were a hundred & fifty galleys) had set out of Epyrus, intending to assault Ancona assoon as they had spoiled the Church of Loreto. And within few days, a speech of their navy being seen upon the coast of Italy, caused the Picentians to assemble themselves with great strength. Among the first multitude, the flower of Recanati flocked to Loreto, to defend the Sacred House with fortifications and arms, who (neglecting their Country and friends) fortified Loreto with rampires & bulwarks. And other people of Picene, filling all the shores round about with armed men, hasted thither with no less emulation, chief to defend the Sacred House of Loreto, with all their might, against the Barbarians: for with all willingness they desired (if necessity required) to die a glorious death for her, and in her sight. To these forces of armed men, were conjoined cruel weapons against the outrageous Barbarians, to wit, the continual prayers of the godly. For all the Priests and devout people of Loreto, and of the bordering towns round about, ceased not to pacify Almighty God by prayer, & by supplication to invocate the B. Virgin, that she herself would vouchsafe to defend her own House and Clients. Their prayer and vow had effect. For the B. Virgin mother of God, did not only keep the force of the Barbarians from her native House, but also from the Territory of Picene itself. Because the Captains of the Turkish navy suddenly changed their determination of attempting Ancona, and turned their fury on the maritime people of Abruzzo; where setting their men a land, and taking Ortona, Guasto, Francavilla, and other no mean towns of Abruzzo by force, they destroyed them with fire and sword. Having for the most part ransacked Abruzzo, yet they durst not touch the bordering Country, wholly exposed to their prey; even so present was the protection of the B. Virgin of Loreto unto her own people. Whereupon the Pope himself, being most glad, that the House of Loreto, was delivered out of such imminent danger by heavenly protection, thought it also his duty to provide, that hereafter it might not only be far from danger; but even from any fear thereof. For which cause by advise of the Architects, he determined to fortify the hills near to the town (whence the enemy might easily assault the sacred House) with walls, fortresses, ditches, and rampires; to the end that it might not only be able to withstand their sudden incursions, but also notably sustain a siege. But one care after another put of this holy determination of the Pope; & finally, untimely death wholly dissolved his holy and godly purpose.   

The Bishop of Conymbria, being taught by his own harm, restoreth a stone which he procured to be taken out of the House of Loreto. CHAP. III.  
THIS time was not without miracles and Donaries. 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  For never before in so few years, did there happen a greater number better witnessed, and more known among all people, whereof this was most famous in all the Christian world. The 61. year of this age, john Suarez Bishop of Conymbria (a man famous for learning and piety) going to the Council of Trent summoned by Pius the FOUR came out of his way to go to Loreto, about the Nativity of the B. Virgin: where dutifully making his prayer and performing his vow, he had a great desire to build in his Bishopric, a little House like to that of Loreto, for which purpose he desired to take some one stone out of the House of Loreto itself. But the Governor of the place, and the Patron withstood it, menacing him with the Pope's inhibition: Yet Suarez, making honourable show to propagate the reverence of the B. Virgin of Loreto in Portugal, obtained his desire of the Pope by an Authentical Breve, which by Francis Stella his Chapline (for he himself was gone to Trent) he sent to the Governor of Loreto, who at that time was Pompeius Pallanterius. But assoon as it was reported abroad, that a Priest of the Bishop of Conymbria was come, authorized with the Pope's Breve, to diminish the wall of the most Majestical Cell, in very deed the thing seemed very unfitting, not only to the Governor and Canons, but also to townes-folkes and strangers, & no less pernicious, for the present damage, then for future example. Whereupon every one pronounced, that there would be an end of the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin: For if once they began to take away the stones of the sacred House, in short time not so much as one would be left. Notwithstanding because the Pope's authority did urge, after divine service and a solemn procession, the Canons and the Priests of Loreto assembled themselves into the sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, rather to suffer, then to do that which was commanded. For all resolutely refusing such a service, with a fit instrument, Stella himself pulled and took the stone out of the wall, all the keepers of the sacred House saying confidently unto him, that it would be but short joy unto his Bishop, that the Minister of sacrilege might take that from God and his B. Mother, which doubtless by the manifest indignation of them both, he would shortly bring back again. It was a prophesy. For these words seeming to come from heaven, pierced the breast of the audacious man, and filled it with anxious cares. Whereupon uncertain what to do (albeit the command of his Bishop did urge) he stayed eight whole days at Loreto, and spent all that time in vain to pacific Almighty God. For how could he assuage the heavenly wrath, who suffered the cause thereof to remain about him? At last on the kalends of December he began his journey, much troubled in mind with a certain religious dread & solicitude. And coming to Anconae without any inconvenience, and holding on his journey without fear of ill success, he presently perceived that Almighty God did punish him for his rashness. Because from that time he was always so molested with rain and tempestuous weather (yet persevering still to go whither he intended) that every moment he escaped many and great dangers of life. For most of the ways were almost unpassable by reason of lakes and streams which hindered him. Also furious waters encountering, threatened him destruction. Likewise the horse on which he road being not able to stand, fell down; and he himself tumbling after, was so moiled in the lakes, that he was enforced to change his horses, but he had no better success with any. And thus divers accidents hindering his unlucky journey, he came at length to Trent, in the end of the month of December (having passed many inconveniences and dangers) and delivered the sacred stone unto the Bishop, telling him how dearly he had bought it. But the Bishop being made nothing more circumspect thereby (having space strangely given him to repent) nor willing to learn by an others peril, was taught by his own. For about the end of February, enclosing the sacred stone in a silver case and preparing to send it into Portugal, he was suddenly taken with an extreme burning fever, and began to be miserably anguished and molested therewith; which brought with it a more grievous and cruel disease, to wit most bitter pain of the groin, which permitted him to take no rest at all. Forthwith Physicians are set awork, who applying all things in vain (because his sickness coming to him as a punishment from God, the cure thereof might very well surpass their skill) they constantly pronounced, that the force and cause of his grief, seemed not to them any human thing. Therefore it was best for him to consider, whether peradventure Almighty God might not inflict that horrible punishment upon him, for offending him: And so fearing unfortunate event of the cure, they departed, despairing of his recovery. whereupon the Bishop was very solicitous and much perplexed in himself, whether for any secret offence, Alm. God had inflicted such horrible punishment on him. And being thus forsaken of the Physicians, he began to be tormented more in mind then in body, to look diligently into himself. And because he was troubled with a scruple about the stone which he procured from Loreto, he ceased not to mitigate the wrath of God by all the means he could, and with sighs and fervent prayer, to ask pardon of the B. Virgin of Loreto, if perchance he had offended, by violating her sacred House, and to confess that he was ready to condescend to all to make satisfaction. His prayer was not unheard, assoon as in some sort he acknowledged and detested his fault. For within a while, he seemed to hear a silent voice (as it were from heaven) commanding him to restore the stone which he had taken from the B. Virgin of Loreto. But fearing lest it might be the vain imagination of a weak mind, both because he had gotten it by the Pope's authority, and also for that he would not defraud Portugal of so great a good, now obtained for her; he remained doubtful what to do. In this mean while some weeks were spent. whereupon by commandment of his Lord, at last Stella carefully recommended the Bishop very dangerously sick, to two holy monasteries of sacred Virgins in the City of Trent. And within two days, one of the chief of either Monastery brought answer, if that the Bishop would be cured, he must restore that which he had taken from the B. Virgin of Loreto. when Stella heard what they said, he was amazed, admiring how Virgins shut up in their Cloisters, could know of the stone of Loreto, which truly at Trent besides himself & the Bishop none knew, because he commanded the thing to be concealed with all care, Not doubting therefore, but that the whole matter was showed unto them by a heavenly sign, he told his Lord what he had heard. Whereat the Bishop remained like one astonished; and wounded with remorse, gave many sighs. And by and by with his elbow lifting himself up upon the bed where he lay, and holding up both hands & eyes to heaven, with trickling tears, he earnestly entreated pardon of the Mother of God. That the merciful Mother would vouchsafe to pardon his pious error: that she would forgive him, acknowledging his fault. For he would keep nothing of the House of Loreto, against her will; he was resolved & determined forthwith to restore that, which he had received thence, and mistrusted not but to recover health by her means, assoon as he had restored the sacred stone unto her; that she would therefore help him, who had given him this hope. He failed not in his promise, nor the B. Virgin his hope. For presently Suarez commanded Stella himself (who brought it) to recarry it back to Loreto, with all the speed he could. Neither in vain. For he was scarce gone out of the gate of the City on a horse of good speed, but the Bishop began to feel himself better, and out of hand sent after him, another Post, to charge Stella to make as much hast as might be. whereupon taking fresh horses, and little regarding his own rest, he posted speedily day & night, making haste to come to Loreto. A wonder to be spoken. The nearer he came to Loreto (as afterward by conferring together the times was understood) the better the Bishop felt himself: So that at the self same time, the sacred stone was restored to the B. Virgin, and health to the Bishop. This seemed not to be without miracle, that Stella in taking away the sacred stone, had no harder and troublesome a journey, than facile and expedite, when he brought it back again. For it is evident, that he posted from Trent to Ancona (which is but xv. miles from Loreto) within four days; so much did not the speed of horses, as a certain providence of Almighty God forward his return. And all this, even as I have related it, Stella himself reported to Raphaell Riera, who was then at Loreto. And in good sooth for the evidence of the miracle, all men do speak of it.   

The Sacred stone is put into his place, & reverenced with great solemnity and concourse of people. CHAP. IV.  
STELLA coming to Loreto, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  in the beginning of April, forthwith related the whole matter to the Governor, & with the letter of his Bishop, delivered the sacred stone, in the Silver case, as it was: whereof as soon as the Priests of Loreto had understanding (who foretold ill hap to them that would adventure such a thing) every one pronounced, that the B. Virgin of Loreto, justly revenging him for his rashness towards her native House, at last had made him to see his own folly; & lest others should adventure the like, had given a worthy example to mortal men. Assoon as it was published abroad, that the sacred stone was brought back by an evident miracle; all the townes-folkes & strangers made haste to the gate of the town to see it, whither coming in solemn procession, the letter of the Bishop of Conymbria (which declared all the matter in order) was openly read, and the sacred stone (graced with this worthy miracle) was put into a gorgeous tabernacle, and by the Governor, Canons, and Priests, was carried about with as great pomp as might be, and put into his own place, with more than two thousand people following it. Whereunto was added a double hold of iron, to be a monument to posterity, that it was taken thence by the rashness of men, and restored again by the providence of God. And the letter of the Bishop was sent to Pius the Pope, in token of the miracle, which at this day is reserved at Rome in the Castle of S. Angelo with other letters of the Popes, whence we had a copy, which we thought good to insert in this place. And the letter translated word for word into latin, is thus. To the Governor of Loreto, john Bishop of Conymbria S. D. (that is to say) sendeth greeting. By reason of my devotion to the B. Virgin of Loreto, with all diligence and travel, labouring to get a stone of that sacred house (as it is not unknown to you) at last I obtained of the high Bishop, to be free from the Censure of the Pontifical inhibition, the Cardinal of Carpa, Patron of Loreto not unwilling thereof. But God and his B. Mother showed me by manifest signs, that I should send back to Loreto, the stone which I had taken thence. For both an unusual disease, did by miracle disquiet my prosperous health, and also by the admonition of holy men, acceptable to Almighty God, I perceived that this was the cause of my sickness. Therefore without delay, entreating pardon & peace of God and his most holy Mother, I commanded that the most sacred stone should be brought back by the same Francis Stella of Arezzo my chaplain, who took it thence. I request and beseech you, to receive the sacred stone which is sent unto you, with such devotion and solemnity as is fitting, and to put it into his own place, together with the mortar, which likewise is sent back unto you. One thing I entreat you, to keep the silver case wherein it is enclosed, as witness of the miracle for everlasting memory to posterity. You shall also do a thing very grateful unto me, if you certify the Cardinal Patron, and the Pope himself of the whole matter, that they may ratify & confirm the Ecclesiastical Censures against the Violatours of the sacred House of Loreto, lest hereafter any part thereof should be taken thence. Also with all the devout Priests of that sacred House, I request you to pray to the B. Virgin of Loreto, that whether this offence be of error or default, that she would mercifully vouchsafe to pardon me. Dated at Trent, the VI of the Ideses of April, the year. M.D.LXII. The fame of so certain and so witnessed a miracle being presently divulged in Picene, and in all Italy, greatly increased the Religion and reverence of the sacred place, and from all parts provoked a great multitude of Pilgrims, to come to visit & reverence the House of Loreto with Donaries. For it is well known, that within the space of one month, above fifty thousand strangers came to Loreto, to see and to kiss this famous sacred stone, at which time, there was nothing more spoken of among devout people.   

Many are delivered from very great danger. CHAP. V.  
AT that time the B. Virgin Mother of God, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  showed by evident tokens, that she did no less respect the health & safety of mortal men, than the good of her own House. Troilus Ribera a Gentleman, coming to Loreto upon vow, traveled on horseback among broken rocks (called the Cripts) not far from the maritime Castle of Picene; where his horse stumbling, Ribera himself tumbled down from the steep rocks on horseback, to the shore of the dangerous sea below; often calling on the B. Virgin of Loreto: And heavenly help did not fail him. A wonderful thing to be spoken and seen. For the horse and the man who were thrown down from the Cliff, stuck fast in the way by the sea side, and albeit he had his sword and dagger buckled about him, notwithstanding he escaped safe, and hurt in no part at all: and so went to Loreto joyful and glad, to perform his double vow. Such, and the like danger, by help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, eschewed Sal●stius the Captain of a Band of horsemen, or Pius FOUR who as he traveled over a high Cliff of Vmbria, fell down headlong likewise on horsbacke. But the B. Virgin of Loreto (whom heretofore he had visited) coming to his mind in this imminent danger, with flowing tears he called on her, who doubtless was with him in his fall, speedily bringing him desired help. For although he tumbled down to the bottom of the hill itself; yet he escaped without any harm at all. And the height of the Cliff whence he fell, was almost a hundred Cubits, lest any should exempt it from miracle. joseph of Monte-Feltrio found the like favour, by the help of the B. Virgin in like danger, who climbing up to a high Tower, to settle there a piece of timber, fell down headlong mistaking of his footing; but calling on the B. Virgin of Loreto, forth with he seemed to himself to be sustained by a certain heavenly virtue, seeming, as it were, a hand, & by little & little to be let down without any grievance or danger, so that he came to the ground, not only sound in body, but also in senses, This is more admirable. Augustine of Cremona was at Catara a City of Dalmatia, the year 1563. in the beginning of june; at which time a great earthquake swallowed and overthrew good part of the City, oppressing Francis Priulus the Governor, and his whole family, with a destruction altogether as miserable, as any wise memorable. Whereby Augustine being partaker of the common danger, implored the help of our B. Lady of Loreto. Neither in vain. For although he was beaten down with the sudden fall of a wall, yet his clothes only were torn, & his skin some thing bruised. whereupon all thinking him to be dead, by and by, by the protection of our B. Lady, he was safe and sound; whose preservation, the foul and miserable death of others, who were in like danger, made more notable.   

A sailor losing his ship, is saved by the help of the B. Virgin. CHAP. VI  
THE power of the B. Virgin of Loreto was as notable in calming the sea, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  as in delivering men from the earthquake. A certain man of Sardinia a skilful and discreet Pilot, bringing a ship laden with wares from Constantinople, the 60. year of this age, in the Vigil of S. Andrew the Apostle; & being in sight of Miletus a City of Asia minor, the vessel was suddenly tossed with so vehement a tempest, and beaten so furiously with waves, that she began to leak. There was no hope of recovering harbour: and when the Pilot and Mariners saw that the keel itself began to cleave more and more, and to let in water abundantly, they despaired of human help, and suppliantlie invocated the B. Virgin of Loreto. They prayed not to them that were deaf. For although the ship began to sink by little and little, till she was ready to be swallowed up in the sea; yet suddenly in the darkness of the night, a heavenly light shined to the sailors and passengers, craving pardon of God and strivinglie imploring the help of his B. Mother, which gave both courage, and showed the way of health to them in horrible fear. For seeing a boat stand almost immovable amidst the waves, provided, as it were, by miracle for their safety, all speedily went into it, and followed the heavenly light going before them, as the guide of their way, thinking it to be the B. Virgin of Loreto. And having sailed but a little way, they looked back to see what was become of the ship which they had forsaken, which by and by they saw swallowed up in the sea. whereupon all the company doubling thanks and laudes to God and his B. Mother, by conduct of the heavenly light, came safely sailing into the Adriatic sea; and speedily sailing along the coast of Italy arrived at the haven of Ancona, the very festival day of S. Andrew the Apostle. When they came to land, the speed of their journey was held for no less a miracle, than the benignity of their guide. For it is evident, that within the space of a few hours, the boat sailed more than a thousand miles. Wherefore out of hand going to Loreto, and rightly purifying their souls with the sacred mysteries, they performed their Vow to the B. Virgin Mother of God, and declared and published this worthy miracle.   

Two men are delivered from lightning: Also two barren women are made fruitful. CHAP. VII.  
THE protection of our B. Lady of Loreto, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  was as powerable against lightning, as against the raging sea. Antony de San-Stephano of Castello in the Territory of Luca, in time of a horrible tempest, went up to the steeple to ring the bell, as the custom is: but behold lightning falling suddenly from heaven, overthrew the Tower together with Antony, who being blasted with the lightning, and beaten down with the fall of the steeple, lay four hours without life, covered in a great heap of stones. But at that time his kinsfolks and friends made many vows to the B. Virgin of Loreto, for his preservation and safety, which proved not in vain. For when the heap of stones was removed, Antony was found alive and well, who, in short time recovering strength, came to Loreto the year 1565. to perform his vow to the Mother of God, and most willing to publish her singular favour towards him. And about the same time there happened an other like unto this. Marcus Antonius Fecinus of Monte-Feltrio, Curate of the Parish Carpenia, going up to the bell-fray to ring the bell to Mass, was suddenly strooken with lightning, but calling on the B Virgin of Loreto, with a little scorching of his shoulder, and burning of his clothes, he escaped safe by the undoubted help of our B. Lady, and out of hand making haste to Loreto to perform his vow to the Mother of God, he left behind him a fair votive table to witness the miracle to posterity, And at the same time also, two noble women getting help for their sterility, did as much illustrate the B. Virgin of Loreto, as the former did. julia Roborea wife of Alfonsus of Est, having lived many years with her husband in wedlock without issue, determined to reject all physical remedy, & to turn herself to heavenly aid. whereupon coming to Loreto, and rightly purifying her soul, she besought the B. Virgin, to obtain for her, issue male; making this vow with her prayer, if she had a son, she promised to return to the House of Loreto with gifts, unless she were hindered by some mischance, which notwithstanding she would perform by godly men, whom she would send in her room with the Donaries. When she had made her Vow, she returned home, and conceived issue; and being happily delivered, brought forth a goodly child. And not to be unmindful of her Vow, out of hand she sent to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift, the Image of the infant curiously wrought in a plate of silver, of eight pound weight: Whereunto was added this inscription in token of the benefit received.  
ALFONSUS OF EST, THE SON OF ALFONSUS, NEPHEW OF ALFONSUS DUKE OF FERRARA, BORNE THE IDESES OF NOVEMBER THE YEAR OF OUR LORD M.D.LX  
Such another confirmed the certainty of this miracle. Bernardine San-severino Prince of Bisinia (the Father of him that now is) living many years with his wife, had no children by her. And being long frustrated by the hope of Physicians and physic, he was grieved not only for want, but also because he had no hope of issue, whom he might leave heir of so great a Signiory. At last that which nature denied, he thought good to beg of God and his B. Mother by prayer. whereupon making a vow, he and his wife came to Loreto, where both prayed devoutly to our B. Lady, entreating desired issue. The B. Virgin did not long prolong their hope. For before the Prince departed from Loreto, by manifest signs he perceived his wife to be with child: and in short time it appeared, that she conceived this issue, when she made her vow at home. But I know not by what chance that benefit was short, and of small continuance. For within few years after he became a Father, the Prince was deprived of his only Son: yet the B. Virgin did not frustrate his hope and vow. For within a while he had another son, who suruyving his Father, now governeth the Signiory of Bisinia.   

Many despairing of their recovery are cured by miracle. CHAP. VIII.  

Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  ABOUT that time, health was restored to many by miracle, the Physicians despairing thereof. Cardinal Morono being molested with a dangerous sickness, suddenly recovered by calling on the B. Virgin of Loreto, and forth with came thither to give due thanks to our B. Lady, and to perform his vow, greatly desiring to have a monument of the heavenly benefit to remain there: whereupon he left behind him, a votive table with this inscription.  
JOHN CARDINAL MORONO BISHOP OF PORT; 
The vow of Card. Morono.  BEING MOLESTED WITH A MOST GRIEVOUS INFIRMITY, WAS DELIVERED THEREOF BY THE INTERCESSION OF B. MARIE, ALWAYS A VIRGIN, AND CAME TO PERFORM HIS VOW THE YEAR OF OUR SALVATION. M. D. LXV.  
Another more admirable, 
julianus Cesarinus is delivered from danger of death.  but a little more ancient. julianus Cesarinus one of the Peers of Rome (of whom we spoke before, the 60. year of this age) lay pining away with a dangerous and a long bloody flux, whose strength being taken away with voiding of blood, not only the Physicians, but even his domesticals and friends, believed that he could not possibly escape. But julianus well remembering what favour and help, he had found heretofore at Loreto, called on the Mother of God, and forthwith was delivered out of danger, leaving all amazed at the wonder of so great a thing. For the nearer he was to his death, the more evident was the miracle. Here followeth an other unlike in kind, but like in certainty. john Baptista Asculanus was troubled many years so grievously with the gout, that he was not able to go alone. Therefore having no hope to recover by physic, he implored the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, and without delay came to Loreto on horseback. Assoon as he came thither, he was carried into the most Majestical Cell by two of his servants, where as he was praying devoutly to our B. Lady, he presently recovered his former health, in such sort, that by himself alone he went on foot to the Inn, whence, immediately before, it was well known that he was carried into the most sacred Cell, lame of the gout.   

Two possessed persons are delivered from the tormenting Devils. CHAP. IX.  
OUR B. Lady was as favourable in expelling of Devils, as in curing of diseases. Soon after Paula a Sclavonian woman being long and much vexed with a company of wicked devils, wherewith she was possessed, was the occasion of a marvelous & frequent spectacle, both to the Inhabitants and Pilgrims of Loreto, For having assayed to small effect, other human and divine remedies, she determined to come to the B. Virgin of Loreto, the most certain refuge of all that be in misery. But the Devils hindered her wholesome determination and journey with all their might: and first with roaring and horrible noise, endeavoured to make her to desist from the journey which she had undertaken to Loreto: Then seeing that she would go forward, they cast her on the ground with a kind of obstinacy: & othertimes incensed her so fiercely against them which went with her, that by striking and biting, she might fright them all our of her company. But at last either the piety of men, or else the goodness of God, overcame the devils devices. For (albe it with much resistance) a strong and courageous company of men brought her by force into the sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, and provided for her a godly and a discreet Priest in such affairs, by whom, the devils being commanded to departed by the Word made flesh in that most holy place, at last they went their ways, leaving her without sense. But when she had recovered strength, & given due thanks to our B. Lady, they assaulted her again not far from Loreto, as she returned home. whereupon being haled back to the House of the B. Virgin, she began to utter certain wonders, to divine, to disclose the secrets of many hearts, and to speak in strange tongues. They that were present first wondered at the sudden alteration, but presently turning admiration into compassion, with many tears they implored the B. Virgin in her behalf; who speedily expelled the wicked Devils wherewith she was tormented. Yet assoon as the woman set her foot out of the gate of Loreto, by and by those troublesome fiends were at hand, who entered into her again, as into their ancient possession. Which when it happened the second and third time, at last the woman perceiving that out of Loreto, she could not be safe and secure from those monsters, resolved with herself to lead her life at Loreto, that she might hide herself under the shadow and protection of the B. Virgin, and dedicate herself wholly to her service; where spending some years in such things, she accomplished her last day with a happy end. About the same time, there happened an other not unlike to this. Alexander Galiardino of Bologna an Innkeeper of no small account, had his dearest daughter miserably vexed with four terrible devils. Therefore with great hope and confidence, he recommended her to the fidelity and protection of the B. Virgin of Loreto. Neither in vain. For within a while, those troublesome tormentors were cast forth, & he received his daughter free and in good health. Having obtained his vow he brought her to Loreto, to give due thanks to the B. Virgin Mother of God, & to witness the help, which she received from our B. Lady of Loreto.   

Sight is restored to two blinde-men. CHAP. X.  
AT the same time sight was restored to blinde-men. 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  Peter Romanius a young man of Fauen●ia, being deprived of both his eyes, and many years leading a sorrowful life in perpetual darkness, at la●● by news of the miracles of the B. Virgin of Loreto coming to Faventia, he conceived some hope of recovery. whereupon with much confidence he implored the B. Virgin of Loreto. A wonderful thing to be said. As he was praying to our B. Lady with great hope, the darkness was suddenly taken away, and he recovered his desired sight. The thing is well witnessed. For he came to Loreto the year 1564. and brought with him the letters of Annibal Cassalius the Protonotary Apostolical & Vicar of Faventia, in witness of the miracle.   

The B. Virgin cureth two that were dumb, restoring to the one, the use of his tongue, and to the other, his tongue when it was cut out CHAP. XI.  
THE B. Virgin was not more bountiful to the blind, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  then to the dumb. A little boy of john Vbaldus of Padua, a famous Captain in the war, was so troubled with the falling sickness, that it took from him the use of his tongue. And having lain three years both dumb & sick, the father of the child despairing of help by means of Physicians, implored the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, in behalf of his son: and his prayer was heard. For in continent the child did not only recover his former speech, but also health of body by miracle. Whereupon his father brought him to Loreto, the year 1563. that both might give due thanks to the B. Virgin Mother of God, and perform their vow; who related the whole matter to the Governor of Loreto, and to many others. But this is most admirable. The precedent of Abruzzo coming to Loreto, went out of his way to go to Cluitella, where he apprehended a wicked man using now and then to utter impious speeches, against Alm. God, & the B. Virgin of Loreto. Wherewith the Precedent being incensed to great wrath, for example sake, presently revenged his filthy language, by cutting out his sacrilegious tongue. And not contenting himself with this, he delivered him over to prison, commanding him to be carefully kept, until he returned from Loreto, that then he might determine, whether he deserved to be punished with greater torment. But the poor wretch being in great pain with the inflicted punishment, and also solicitous for that which was past, at last repent, & turning wickedness into reverence, used all diligence both day and night to mitigate the B. Virgin of Loreto, by silent prayer, & vow, beseeching her to assuage the viceroys anger against him, & to give him means to cleanse his soul of sin by sacred Confession. The prayer of the wicked man repenting and detesting his fault, did not mislike the B. Virgin of Loreto. For within a while the Mother of God appeared unto him in his sleep, bidding him be of god comfort; for in short time he should be delivered out of prison, that he might go to the House of Loreto, and there confess his sins by means of a new tongue. The event approved the prediction. When he awaked, a certain tongue (as it may seem) began to grow again, by which he uttered the conceit of his mind, without any difficulty at all. And the Viceroy returning from Loreto, and understanding of the matter, thought good to pardon him, whom the B. Virgin herself had pardoned. Therefore in continent he set him at liberty, hereafter advising him to be wiser by his own peril, and giving him letters to the Penitentiaries, in token of the miracle, he sent him to Loreto to perform his vow. When he came thither, not only the viceroys letter, but also the thing itself witnessed the miracle to all. For when he opened his mouth (a wonderful thing to be seen) they saw that his tongue was cut out, and that a certain little tongue did grow underneath in place of the other, wherewith when he himself would (albeit with stammering) they heard him speak. This was not all. For returning home and receiving the sacred mysteries twice or thrice, a new tongue increased by a new miracle, to the just bigness. whereupon coming again to Loreto, to give due thanks to the Mother of God; to the very same, who a little before had seen his tongue cut out (whereof Raphaell Riera, who set it down in writing, was one) he showed it grown out again by the immortal gift of our B. Lady to the admiration and wonder of all, extolling the B. Virgin for so notable, and so worthy a miracle.   

A jew is delivered out of prison by the B. Virgin, and baptised at Loreto. CHAP. XII.  
THE B. Virgin of Loreto did not only make the Christians, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  but also the jews partakers of her benignity and help. A certain Hebrew of Nazareth (a man in other respects grave and wise) dwelled at Nazareth in the ver●e street where (as we said before) the impressions of the House of Loreto, were yet in the ground to be seen: who by nearness of the place (of which by report he had heard many admirable things, had gotten some sparkle of religion. For knowing that the Christians did reverence Mary his Citizen with great devotion and respect, he also began to honour her, and for the same cause, was not far from believing in Christ himself. But, as they are a kind of people hard and perverse, he continued in the old superstition wherein he was enured from his Childhood by continual use. But at last extreme misery bowed his obstinate mind. For at 60. years of age, he being apprehended by the Turks (for what wickedness I know not) and condemned to perpetual imprisonment, he pined away with misery, and despairing of bodily health, began to think of his soul. And having a great care and zeal of salvation inspired into him from above, he prayed suppliantlie for pardon, to God the Creator of the world, whereby obstinacy was overcome by misery, and heavenly light shined to his blinded mind. Therefore with great devotion he called on jesus the Messias of the Christians, & on Marie the Mother of the Messias. When he had sollicitouslie done so, he went to bed full of hope and confidence: and his hope was not in vain. For the same night Christ appearing unto him in his sleep, & the Nazaren knowing him by the similitude in which the Christians did worship him, he confessed him to be the true God & the Messias of the world, and suppliantlie adored him in his sleep. And presently the likeness of a Virgin of exceeding beauty and majesty was also represented unto him, by whose command, an other Virgin her companion, unloosed him out of the irons, wherewith he was fettered; and opening the doors of the prison brought him to the haven, yet fast asleep, but seeing in his dream what was done in very deed. Then the more powerful Virgin seeming to be the others Mistress, showed him a boat in readiness, and said unto him: Now thou art free, therefore be mindful of thy Deliverefle, for behold I have prepared thee a mean to escape; neither will I fail to help thee, as thou fliest away. ●or thy part go to Loreto, which is a Town of Picene in the Province of Italy, there receive Christian Baptism, and offer up thyself at the Altar of Mary, with purpose of better life. And the jew giving thanks to both, but chiefly to her, who seemed the worthier, prayed his deliveresse, to vouchsafe to tell her name. And when she had said, that she was Mary of Loreto, and her companion Lucy, presently with her Companion she withdrew herself out of his sight. whereupon the Hebrew a waking, perceived that the representation of the thing showed him in his sleep was true, and much admiring so great a wonder, and making no end of thanksgiving to the B. Virgin of Loreto, the boat into which he entered by persuasion of our B. Lady, of itself sailed along the seas with wonderful speed; and so by heavenly conduct and aid, he arrived at Ancona within two days. When the miracle was published abroad, he was courteously entertained by the chiefest of the City, who urging him to be baptised there: Nay, said he, Marry the Mother of Christ commanded me to be baptised at Loreto. whereupon the Governor of Ancona dismissed him with letters of commendation, and sent him strait to Loreto, where being sufficiently instructed in the mysteries of Christian religion, he was baptised to his own great joy, and also others, the 60. year of this age, declaring the whole matter to Riera. and to many others by an Interpreter.   

The chiefest gifts brought or sent to Loreto, Pius the iv being Pope. CHAP. XIII.  
THis time which was so graced with miracles, 
Cod. Laur.  was not without Donaries. The Card. of S. Praxedes presented his own Image of silver to the breast, 
The gift of the Card. of S. Praxedes, and of others.  of five pound weight. Francis Caietan a noble man of Rome, golden ornature for the Altar. Cardinal Arigonio another of silver embroidered, and beset with pearl. Others of less account, brought to the B. Virgin, other meaner gifts, not needful to be rehearsed. Also the piety of noble women was not of small regard. For julia Roborea presented to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift, a vestment for the Priest of cloth of silver, magnificentlie embroidered. The Duchess of Gravine ornature for the Altar, of tissue-cloth of gold. The Duchess of Mont-Alto, a Cope of cloth of gold. Clelia Farnesia, another of satin, garnished with golden lilies. Happily at no time before in so few years, were worthier gifts presented from Cities and Towns. Spello a Town of Vmbria, sent a silver Image of three pound weight. Another from Sarnano in Picene of ten pound weight. Another from Arezzo in Tuscany of eight pound weight. Also an other silver Image, from the City of Firmo of xxij. pound weight, for about 30. years before, she had sent another, whereunto now at this very time, she adjoined a third, notable for bigness and weight, to wit of xxxiij. pound weight, the inscription whereof doth make the votive gift more gracious; thus. IN PERFORMANCE OF A PUBLIC VOW THE CITY OF FIRMO  
DEDICATED THIS SILVER IMAGE TO OUR B. LADY OF LORETO, FOR THE RECOVERY OF HER COMMON WEALTH.  
And these be the chiefest miracles and Donaries of the Chapel of Loreto, which I find set down in writing, whiles Pius the FOUR was Pope.   

The testimony of Pius V of the House of Loreto: and the works of Robert Saxatellus, whiles he was Pope. CHAP. XIIII.  
AFTERWARDS Pius V was advanced to the Apostolic Chair, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  whose singular piety in all things, concerning the honour of our B. Lady of Loreto, was very notable. For desiring nothing more than to grace the sacred Cell with some special gift, in the very beginning of his Reign, he gave worthy testimony of the House of Loreto in a monument of his. Who being to consecrate Agnus Dei (as the manner is) commanded that the figure of the House of Loreto, 
The testimony of Pius V.  supported on the shoulders of Angels, should be imprinted in many of them, with this poesy: THE TRUE FLOURISHING HOUSE, WHICH WAS IN NAZARETH. Which testimony of such and so great a Pope, is to be esteemed so much the more, for that it was carried into most parts of the Christian world, with the figures of those sacred Agnus Dei. And not contenting himself with this, he carefully committed the protection of the House of Loreto to the Cardinal of Urbine, seriously exhorting him to omit nothing, which he thought might adorn and grace the same. And the good Cardinal being prone thereunto of his own disposition, by instigation of the Pope, wholly employed himself in that care. For when john Baptista Maremontius, the successor of Pallanterius, had been Governor of Loreto six months; and after him, Vbaldus Venturellus (who also after a few months departed this life) the Cardinal of Urbine, performing the command of Pius the Pope with like greatness and piety of mind, appointed Robert Saxatellus, 
Robert Saxatellus.  an active and a wise man, to govern Loreto with great authority. Whose worthy industry deceived, neither the Cardinal nor the Pope. For he made a special choice of Priests and Canons, to increase the Majesty of the Church of Loreto, and every where sought out the chiefest Choristers with great expenses, that he might have a Choir of Music inferior to none. Also with the sacred ornature, with tables curiously painted, and with the tapestry which he bought, Majesty to the Altar; beauty was added to the Church. And these were the chiefest ornaments of the most Majestical Cell. 
twelve Images of the Sibyls.  Twelve images of the Sibyls of Ligurian Marble of costly work, placed in their Nicets: four brazen leaves distended on the doors, 
Four brazen leaves for the doors of the Church  engraven with admirable art, by Hierome Lombardo, a notable Statuary and Carver of that age: two Images of the Princes of the Apostles of silver, of a cubit and a half, 
Two Images of the Apostles.  of rare work, to be an ornament for the Altar on high festival days. Moreover to carry the most holy Eucharist honourably and reverently to the sick, to bury the dead with solemnity, to maintain due devotion to the Names of JESUS and MARIE, he instituted four Sodalities, to wit, of Corpus Christi, of Mercy, of The name of JESUS, and of the rosary of our B. Lady; appointing to every one their proper Chapel, their sacred ornature, their place of meeting, and their special laws: by which Sodalities, great good came to the people of Loreto, and honour to the Church. But the care of Saxatellus did not contain itself within the limits of the Church. For he furnished a common Library with all sorts of books, cut down the hurtful woods which remained, wholly dried up the lakes thereabout; and turning the channel of the River Musion (running under the walls) another way, made the dwelling at Loreto far more healthful. Then, to make free and expedite access for the Pilgrims which came to visit the sacred House of Loreto, he repaired all the ways that were worn out, or much decayed with long use, partly with brick, and partly with gravel. But albeit most of these works were begun under Pius V yet they were finished under Gregory the xiii. And last of all Saxatellus made a goodly Bark to fetch great pieces of stone out of Dalmatia for the building of Loreto, & procured great store thereof to be brought thither, with which the notable forefront of the Church of Loreto began to be covered with antic work, by john Baccalino a famous Architect of those days.   

The Hospitality and Alms of the House of Loreto. CHAP. XV.  
SAXATELLUS using all diligence to adorn the Church, 
The Hospitality of the House of Loreto.  the town, and the ways of Loreto, omitted not the offices of charity and Christian benignity. For first he daily relicued an hundred, than two hundred, and sometimes also more than three hundred poor Pilgrims, entertaining them with good Hospitality. And because the old Hospital was assigned for men, and the multitude also of women daily increased, he built & furnished a new Hospital for them. The honester sort of poor Pilgrims, whom shamefastness did let to ask alms openly, he relieved by secret means. Principal men he entertained courteously & very bountifully, that you might think the B. Virgin of Loreto was the receiver of all Nations, and almost of all sorts of people. Happily at no time before, did Almighty God more concur in helping the benignity of men: for there was such abundance of alms and votive money, that they did not only suffice so many & so great offices of piety and Christian benignity, but also far exceeded them. Whereby we see that wealth bestowed for God's cause, by his goodness doth return more abundantly. Therefore Saxatellus the only Steward wholly bend to increase the State of Loreto, with the money which advanced (that the fountain of this benignity might be perpetual) purchased goodly and fruitful grounds. Of the Earl Bonarello in the Territory of Recanati, he bought the Mount-Vrsus for ten thousand Crowns: for as much more, Tustion in Osimo, and also other lands in Castro-Ficardo, a notable piece of ground (called Aquaviva) for two thousand and two hundred Crowns, and the vineyards for three thousand. And lest the meadows & woody grounds should be void and unoccupied, he filled them with herds of Oxen, Mares, Buflers, flocks of sheep, goats, & other cattle. Out of which, aswell other commodities, as an yearly revenue of almost three thousand crowns, came to the House of Loreto, to be no small furtherance to her bounty, and the service of Almighty God. And most of these things were purchased with the money, which advanced whiles Pius V was Bishop. For truly that which was bountifully given unto the poor, was restored with so great increase, that you would think God strived with men in liberality. Moreover, as much as lay in him, Pius the Vicar of God, 
The Decree of Pius V.  did also further this providence of Almighty God. For neither the love, nor the entreaty of any, could ever move him, to turn any thing falling to the profit of the House of Loreto, into other works of piety: so resolute was he, that vows made to our B. Lady should be performed where they that made them received benefit by them; specially seeing that their votive gifts could no where be better employed, then in the ornaments & Hosspitality of the House of Loreto itself.   

The Donaries of Pius V and of other Princes. CHAP. XVI.  
AND Pius the Popereceived no small grace and reward of his merit towards our B. Lady of Loreto. 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  For bewailing Michael Bonello the Cardinal of Alexandria, 
The vow & gift of Pius V & of others.  his sister's son, brought to the point of death with a grievous and dangerous sickness, he made a Vow to the B. Virgin of Loreto in his behalf. Neither in vain. For presently the prayer of the godly Pope was heard, health was restored to the Cardinal ready to die; and Pius obtaining this vow and favour of our B. Lady, was correspondent to the speediness of the heavenly benefit, with like speed of devotion. For which cause as soon as Michael was able to perform that journey by reason of his weakness, he sent him to the B. Virgin of Loreto with a votive gift, that he himself might witness his miraculous recovery. The Donary was an excellent suit of silver cloth of tissue, for the Altar, & the Priest; the worthier, for that it was sent for the health of a worthy Cardinal, and from Pius. V the Pope. Neither at any time heretofore in so few years, did the rest of the Cardinals send more gifts to the sacred House of Loreto. The Cardinal of Mantua presented ornature for the Altar of cloth of gold. The Cardinal of S. George a Vestment for the Priest of the same stuff. Cardinal Montino a suit for the Altar of cloth of gold, double curled. Cardinal Riario ornature for the Altar and the Priest of Damask, with an Image of Christ, and silver Candlesticks, a Cubit long, of very costly work. Cardinal Mont-Alto (who afterward was Pope by the name of Xystus V) double ornature for the Altar, and single for the Priest and Ministers celebrating with solemnity, of Damask beautified and finely flourished with great golden flowers. Cardinal Sittico ab-Altempts, a Vestment for the Priest wrought with gold and silver, like network, embroidered. Cardinal Perusino furniture for the Priest well embroidered: another almost like to this of the same stuff and work from Cardinal Paceco. Finally Cardinal Vinerio gave a worthy Cope, and golden Vestments, for the Priest and Ministers celebrating divine service with solemnity, garnished with great flowers, curled gold and embroidery. Neither wanted there gifts from Cities & Towns. The people of Camerino brought to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift, a Cope of cloth of gold. The people of Fabriano a silver Chalice, notable for bigness and weight. The people of Viterbo ornature for the Altar made of gold & silver. With these also came other Donaries from worthy, but from unknown persons, whose memory hath perished I know not by what mischance. There is a Statue almost a Cubit long of solid gold, representing a naked Child, wrought with marvelous art, the giver whereof and the cause is not expressed. divers deliver it in divers manners. The more common report is, that it was a votive gift of the Prince Asculano, one of the Peers of the kingdom of Naples: who having a son to succeed in the State of his Ancestors, was deformed with contraction of hands and feet. But his parents invocating the B. Virgin of Loreto, and making a vow for the recovery of their Child, the use of his feeble members was restored unto him by miracle: and truly the shape & fashion of the Statue itself doth favour this report. Besides there are other such like gifts, whereof there is no memory in the monuments of Record, for aught that I know. For the book of the Donaries of this time, comprehending almost ten years, either perished or else came not to my hands. Therefore of those gifts, which were given in the end of Pius V and in the beginning of Gregory the xiii. I can make no mention, because I never received any memory of them, but the rest I have delivered with fidelity, as I received them out of their monuments of Record. Therefore now at this time, as I imagine, the silver Images of Ascolo, Recanati, Monte-Santo, Bologna, Milan, and others (at this day to be seen in the Vestries) were dedicated to the B. Virgin of Loreto.   

Some are delivered from the inundation of a River: others from tempest of the sea, and from thieves. CHAP. XVII.  
MANY miracles of this time are delivered. 
Trad. Laur. Annal. Laur. Rier.  Dominicke a Castro-Florentino a Contreyman, dwelled in a cottage not far from the River Elsa, with two companions of his. Which on a certain night breaking over the banks with great abundance of rain, began to overflow the next fields far and wide; and flowing thence with great violence, carried away floating with it, whatsoever it met. whereupon Dominicke awaking out of his sleep with the noise of the raging stream, and putting his head out of his cottage, beheld the fields round about, overflown with water, and the flood ready to come upon him. So fearing lest the present deluge would make an end of him, forthwith he and his fellows climbed up to the top of the Cottage, and there remained, the danger still increasing, often calling on the B. Virgin of Loreto. The cottage was built of wattles and straw, and ●●ood on posts not very deep in the ground, which the swift water raising up from thence, carried clean away, with those three sitting on the top of it. And the implored help of our B. Lady did not fail them. For the cottage running to and fro, with force of the wandering stream, for the space of two mile, came at last to a great tree, which they esteeming a heavenly benefit, let go the cottage, climbed into the tree with speed, and stayed there until the violence of the water ceasing, and the flood itself decreasing, returned into the channel again: Whereby they were all saved, not so much by help of the tree, as by the B. Virgin, next after God. Furthermore by double benefit of the B. Virgin of Loreto, others were delivered from imminent danger of Pirates, and from a great tempest. A ship of Ancona loaden with merchandise of Alexandria, being espied by many pyratical Pinnaces, as she returned to Italy, was presently beset round about, and cruelly assaulted with Ordinance and weapons. And albeit the Christians were much unequal in number and strength; yet they sustained the assault of the Barbarians in hope of heavenly old. Mean while by mutual exhortation, all at once called on the B. Virgin of Loreto, and made their prayer more effectual with a vow. A marvelous thing to be spoken. Forthwith such courage and strength was given to all their company, that renewing the fight, they notably resisted the force of their enemies, and by savour of the B. Virgin were delivered out of present danger. But having escaped this danger of the Pirates, & sailing along with a prosperous wind, without any fear at all, suddenly by change of weather, they were brought into greater danger by the sea itself. For not far from the town Aulon, situated by the Acroceraunion Rocks (which, by corruption, the Inhabitants call Velona) a foul tempest threatened them present destruction, and made them all so fearful, that they made a vow to our B. Lady of Loreto, and resolved to go thither in pilgrimage, as sailors are wont to do. Whereby the tempest was presently assuaged, and the ship returning to her course came to Ancona without any harm at all; the speed whereof was such, that within the space of six hours, she sailed from Aulon to Ancona. Wherefore all the Passengers and mariners came cheerfully to Loreto to perform their Vow, and to divulgate and witness this double miracle.   

Many are delivered from the Captivity of the Turks. CHAP. XVIII.  
THESE were delivered from the danger of the Turks, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  but others from their captivity. Michael Boleta no mean Citizen of Catara, being taken by the Turks in the town Cabala, remained captive not far from Galipolis, and when he had served five years, he was so wearied with captivity, that he began to long for liberty, and with two fellow-captives consulted about their flight: who finding an empty vessel in the harbour without a keeper, went into it as they had agreed, and speedily thrust it from the shore. But their flight was not unknown to the Turks, who out of hand with two swift and well furnished Pirates barks, made haste to pursue their slaves flying away; and there wanted not much, that Michael and his fellows had not been taken and brought back again by the Barbarians, to be punished with great torture and pain. whereupon by his persuasion, all besought pardon and help of God and his glorious Mother, the B. Virgin of Loreto. A strange thing to be spoken & seen: For by & by a foul tempest so enraged the sea & the wind, that it drove the Barbarians ships far away. And the thing itself well showed that it was sent on the enemies by miracle. For at the self same time, and in the same course of the sea, the Turks were tossed with the furious waves, and the Christians sailed on with great quietness of the sea, & with a prosperous gale: Who looking back to see how far of the Barbarians were, as by the Turbans of their heads (which the Turks use in steed of hats) which sometimes seeing to be tossed up, then to fall down again, they perceived that their enemies were tumbled with the furious waves, and strived with the adverse weather, not so solicitous for the flight of others, as for their own safety, so greatly did the terror which Almighty God cast into them by miracle, avert their minds from pursuing others, to care how they might escape with their own lives. Whereby not only with the wind, but also with the help of our B. Lady, the Christians came to Catara with incredible speed; and being very mindful of their vow, and of the heavenly benefit, went speedily to Loreto, where righty receiving the Christian mysteries, they gave manifold thanks to the B. Virgin, and recounted her exceeding benefit.   

A man who was hanged is delivered from death. CHAP. XIX.  
EVEN life itself was restored to others, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  when they suffered capital punishment. Thomas a Venetian, being Captain of a Band of soldiers in the garrison of Zebenico, was not able to order the rude soldiers; who being frighted with news of the Turkish navy coming to assault that fortification, ran all away, and Thomas seeing the garrison forsaken, out of hand with one soldier his companion (which only remained) went to jadera, commonly called Zara, to declare to the General of the Venetian Fleet the escape of the soldiers, and the danger of Zebenico, thinking nothing of his own peril. But the General being provoked to anger by such a message, forthwith commanded that Thomas and his companion should be hanged; yet giving time to provide for their souls, as the manner is. whereupon Thomas having rightly purified his soul by sacred Confession, invocated the B. Virgin of Loreto, and making a vow, put his neck into the halter, with undoubted hope of heavenly help. The rope was fastened to the end of the yard of a ship, and the yard was lifted up with Thomas hanging thereon, having great weight of iron tied to his feet. whereupon the hangman hoisting up the word, & suddenly letting it fall again of purpose three or four times, squatted the body of him whom he was executing: whereby all thinking him to be dead, (for he had hung four hours) he was taken down from the torture to be buried. But albeit this which we are now to deliver may seem to surpass all credit; yet truly neither the power of God, nor his B. Mother. For he who was thought to be dead, was found alive and lusty, when the soldier who was his companion in punishment and used in like manner of torture, had given up the ghost. Thomas therefore leaving all astonished with the admiration of so great a wonder, went forthwith to Loreto, to give due thanks to God and the B. Virgin, by whose immortal benefit, he was preserved in this mortal life. And the thing remaineth well witnessed among the Priests of Loreto. Knowing many more not unlike to this, I pass them over, because they seem not so well witnessed, as to be delivered to memory by him, who will set down nothing without good ground.   

Two are delivered from very great danger of death. CHAP. XX.  
BUT this is well known and witnessed, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  though seldom heard of from the time of the Apostles, that the old example of Peter the Apostle delivered out of prison by miracle, in a sort should be renewed in our time. The year after Christ's Nativity 1570. a certain person, Noble both by blood and deeds (Authors deliver not his name, I think that himself would have it suppressed) was detained in irons, by one of the chiefest Peers of Italy, and charged with false crimes before a wicked and a wrathful judge. Therefore without doubt thinking that he should be put to death, he called on the B. Virgin of Loreto, beseeching her that before he departed this life, he might have opportunity to visit the Cell of Loreto. And the godly prayers of the innocent, were pleasing to the Mother of God. For in the night, sound sleep came upon his body oppressed with anxiety of mind, and in his sleep a beautiful shape of our B. Lady of Loreto was presented unto him, who mollified his mournful heart with great joy, and presently breaking of his fetters, and opening the doors of the prison by miracle (& that which was done out of sleep, was showed to him that was a sleep) compelled him to go out of the prison, admiring the wonder of so great a thing; and after he was set at liberty, brought him to the next street of the City, yet fast a sleep, and then in continent vanished out of his sight. Wherewith the man awaking, and seeing himself delivered out of irons and prison itself, perceived that no vain imagination was showed him in his rest. Therefore giving hearty thanks to the B. Virgin, and exulting with joy after so great sorrow, he adventured to go unto his own House. But knowing that he should be sought with great diligence by the Officers of the Prince, to be punished more cruelly as a fugitive, calling again on the B. Virgin of Loreto, he did a memorable act. Betimes in the morning (having before armed himself with heavenly confidence) of his own accord he went unto the enraged Prince, who was greatly astonished to see him, and related unto him the whole matter in order as it happened. Neither did the B. Virgin fail to help her Client in so great danger. For the Prince thought it sacrilege to hurt him, whom the Mother of God would have to be saved; supposing that it was no small token of his innocency, and being assisted with heavenly grace: Seeing, saith he, the B. Virgin of Loreto hath delivered thee by so great a miracle, I also by my sentence do deliver thee: Go therefore, and make haste to that most majestical Cell, as thou hast vowed, and remember to make the Mother of God favourable unto us. The innocent man being bound by double vow, came to Loreto, to wash away his offences by Confession, where he joyfully performed his vows to our B. Lady, & related so worthy a miracle to Riera the Penitentiary, who delivered it to writing for everlasting memory to posterity. At that time a Gentleman of Spain (whose name we suppress to save his credit) being condemned to die for a wicked fact, whereof he was guilty, was kept in prison, hourly expecting execution. In the mean time, the B. Virgin of Loreto coming to his mind (of whose wonderful virtue, he had heard much talk long since in Italy, by report of others) made him to conceive good hope of life and liberty, and to beseech pardon of God & his B. Mother, and to entreat mercy & help of both; making this vow with his prayer, assoon as possibly he might, out of Spain (where then he was) he would go a foot to the House of Loreto, & live by alms like a poor Pilgrim. An incredibile thing to be said: within three hours, the judges being reconciled to the delinquent by miracle, revoked and disannulled the sentence, and delivered the offender from punishment and prison. But having made this vow in his fear, in his security he was so unmindful thereof, that he had almost forgotten so great a benefit with long delay, had not Almighty God, justly revenging him for his irreverence, punished his delay and his forgetfulness. For as he was shooting of an hargabuse, the iron barrel breaking in his hands without any harm at all, put him in mind both of the present peril avoided by heavenly protection, and also of the old benefit and vow. Whereupon in continent true devotion, & the dread of God offended with him, entering into his heart, without further delay made him to set forward towards Loreto as he had promised, to perform his Vow to the Mother of God, where he himself declared the whole matter to the said Riera, even as I have related it.   

The manifold help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, in the victory gotten of the Turks by sea. CHAP. XXI.  
AT those times in the extreme danger of the Christian State, the power and help of the B. Virgin of Loreto was most notable. For when Selime the Turkish Emperor had taken Cyprus by force of arms, he threatened destruction to the rest of the State of Veni●e, and of the Christian world. Therefore Pius V thinking to withstand the common danger with common forces, joined with the Venetians, and with the King of Spain against the Turkish war, and began to make great preparation for it. Duke Marcus Antonius Columna most illustrious among the Romans for parentage & fame, being General of the Pope's Navy, was commanded to set forward against the Turks with all speed. Whose wife, Felix Vrsina, a woman of like Nobility, fearing that she might be deprived of husband and children, thought it her safest course to recurre to the B. Virgin of Loreto, in so many adventures of war by sea. Whereupon she came to Loreto with an honourable train, not doubting but by the intercession of the Mother of God, the King of Heaven would be merciful to her husband. After she had received the sacred mysteries, she remained devoutly all night in the most sacred Cell, humbly beseeching pardon & help of God & his B. Mother for herself & her husband. And assoon as she had reverenced the B. Virgin with fervent devotion and votive gifts, in honour of our B. Lady, she was Godmother at Baptism to a young man of the Hebrew nation, on whom bestowing a chain of gold, she received him into her family. Neither was her supplication and favour unrewarded. For within a short time, she obtained her vow, & received her husband not only safely returned from so cruel a battle with victory, but also with great joy, beheld him triumphing with notable pomp in the City of Rome, after the ancient manner of the Romans. But in the same war, Pius the Pope received as certain help from the B. Virgin of Loreto, in behalf of the public cause, as she did in the private matter. For he commanded the Christian navy to be in readiness, and very careful about the battle, knowing very well that the Christian State did depend thereof. Mean time Pius V the Pope (pious indeed) used all diligence to pacify Almighty God both by public and private prayer: specially in the most majestical Cell of Loreto he commanded that continual prayer should be made unto the Mother of God, that in the extreme danger of their State, the godly Mother would vouchsafe to assist and aid the Christians. The hope of Pius the Pope, and of Godly men deceived them not. For when the battle at sea was begun, a thing not so much of human, as of heavenly virtue & favour was seen. For the wind turning for the Christians (which before the battle was against them) and beating the smoke of the ordinance, and the muskets of the enemies on their own heads, a most famous victory was gotten of Barbarians: most of the enemies were slain, their ships sunk or taken, a great prey, a multitude of Captives, above ten thousand Christians were delivered from their servitude, whereof truly the far greater part, came afterward to Loreto to perform their vows. And it is certain, that the very day of the fight, before the trumpets sounded, the Christian slaves whom the Turks had condemned to the oar, made vows to our B. Lady of Loreto for their liberty; and the like also did many Captains and soldiers of the Christian Navy for life and victory, that none may doubt, but next after God, so worthy a victory was due to the Mother of God. Wherefore not only the slaves of the Turks which rowed, but also many soldiers and Christian Captains came to Loreto to give due thanks to God and our B. Lady, and to perform their vows. And both the one and the other would have monuments of the heavenly benefit to remain there. 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  For some left with their Deliveresse, the chains wherewith they were fettered to the oars; and others dedicated unto her, as author of the victory, the spoil which they got from the enemy. And this was the last, and I know not, whether the greatest of all the human works of Pius Quintus.   

The sacred House is adorned by Gregory the xiii. with Indulgences and notable ways. CHAP. XXII.  
GREGORY the xiii. succeeded Pius: 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  who as in the longness of his reign; so in devotion towards the B. Virgin of Loreto, and in greatness of mind, he passed the former Popes. For he had nothing in greater estimation, then most munificently to adorn the most famous Church of the whole world, not only in confirming the Indulgences of former Popes by his authority, but also by his wisdom augmenting them, & giving remission of sins to all that rightly visited the sacred House of Loreto. Moreover he increased the authority of the Penitentiaries, and gave them faculty to absolve all religious persons from reserved sins. This truly was a worthy favour of Gregory, who publishing the celebrity of the jubiley, for the 75. year of this age, & suspending all the Indulgences of the whole world in favour of the City, as the manner is, thought it good to exempt this one House of Loreto, which, no less then in other years, he would have to enjoy all her Privileges this holy year of the Roman celebrity, lest the frequency to Rome should diminish people's devotion and reverence to our B. Lady of Loreto. Also when the year of jubiley was ended, he granted that very Indulgence, which was at Rome to the Church of Loreto, which many gaining at Rome, might get again at Loreto, if they performed the conditions. And shortly after, Gregory began a magnificent work worthy such a Pope, and the Majesty of Loreto itself. For well knowing that even in many places of the Pope's Dominions, the ways which went to Loreto were so difficult and straight, that they scarce afforded free passage to horse or man, and thinking it would be glorious to B. Mary of Loreto, to have them so broad & so repaired, that it might easily & securely be gone unto with coaches; he opened and plained the chiefest ways through Rocks and Cliffs, with such Princely cost, that they may be compared to any munificent works of the ancient Romans in this kind. For in the very top of the Apennineses, the way is so broad, that wagons meeting together, may pass without any danger at all. Whereby the Pope effected (which unless we saw done, none would believe could be done) that with Chariots & Coaches here might be free passage over the Apennine Mountains from the City, not only into Picene, but also into Aemilia, Lombardy, Polony, & Germany itself. So that now out of the remotest parts of the Christian world, many come in wagons & Coaches, to visit the sacred House of Loreto, the commodity of the way inviting those, whom before the difficulty thereof did hinder. Meantime by the chiefest ways about Loreto (already covered with gravel or stone) Saxatellus made goodly fountains, to be no small ornament to the Pilgrimage of Loreto, and comfort to the Pilgrims themselves.   

The celebrity of Loreto in the year of jubiley CHAP. XXIII.  
IN the mean time, whiles these ways were in hand the year 1576. which was remarkable for the celebrity of the jubiley, without the City, such a multitude of people resorted to Loreto, as the like was never remembered. In very deed the pomp was so notable, that it will be memorable to all posterity. Every day, seven, eight, and sometimes ten Cities, little Towns and Villages, came in several Companies to Loreto, bringing to our B. Lady silver Crownets, great torches of wax covered with silver and golden coin, sacred vestments, Chalices, & other gifts. And the order and ornature of them that came with this solemnity, betokened great piety and religion. For the holy Sodalities themselves, were graced with several Companies & Ensigns, and every company adorned their Society, not only with notable Crosses glittering with gold and silver, but also with curious Banners, & with Images of Angels & Saints. Likewise in all the said Companies there were some that went barefooted, others that with disciplines did beat their naked and bloody backs, & others that song devout hymns and prayers to God and our B. Lady with great solemnity. But among all, the Sodalities of Picene did excel; who represented the sacred Histories both of ancient and later times, by special persons, orderly placed here & there amongst them, and with great grace of the Actors, showed most grateful spectacles, to heaven and earth, in the Cloister of the Church of Loreto. There is a town in Picene of no small reputation and fame, which hath chosen S. Genesius (of a stage-player a Martyr) for her Patron, whose name she beareth. Who with godly zeal and religious emulation imitating the ancient praise of her Patron, deserved the chiefest commendation, for holy spectacles & sacred pomp, of all the Sodalities that came to the House of Loreto. For about a thousand people of this town (besides women and the disordered multitude) coming to the sacred House of Loreto with singular devotion, were, as it were, a wonder to them that met them. Their solemnity was this. Many went before in the habit of Penitents, carrying the figures of the torments and death of Christ our Lord, who attiring themselves in sackcloth, went in a long and a well disposed company, sprinkling their heads with ashes, barefooted, and beating their backs with continual stripes. After whom followed three most adorned Sodalities, garnished with divers liveries and colours, and every company was graced with Crosses and Banners, which glittered with gold & silver. All the Companies a like did shine with the burning torches of their fellows, & sounded far & near with worthy Quires of music. Next went, as it were, three Bands of men. The first carried the ancient figures and mysteries of the sacred History which they represented: 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  the other, worthy documents of virtue, out of the Gospel, & Ecclesiastical Histories: the third, the glory of the Martyrs & of the militant Church, & the noble victories, which they got of their persecutors. The Image of the persons & thing represented, were expressed so lively, that they seemed not to be showed, but to be done and acted, so in very deed, that you would think that those spectacles had not been feigned for the present, but that they had been true indeed, and done in their very times. A pageant of the triumphant Church set forth with Ensigns and ornaments of every kind, and with marvelous variety of the things and persons represented, did conclude the last Company. Christ our Saviour rising from death to life, was represented with great Majesty in a triumphal Chariot; who sitting over the globe of the world, shined on every side with glorious brightness, and lifting up his right hand, seemed to bless the people that met him. About whom, little children with instruments, representing the countenances of Angels, delighted all with their most sweet and pleasant melody. And a great multitude of Martyrs, and Saints of every order and kind, of men, of women, of Virgins, followed the Chariot in Crowns of glory and with Ensigns of victory, inviting the multitude of the beholders, to the like glory by their happy example. Truly all the action was not only a spectacle, but a great instigation to piety and devotion.   

The notable piety of Don john de Austria in visiting the House of Loreto. CHAP. XXIIII.  

Annal. Laur. Rier.  THE House of Loreto was not more reverenced with these spectacles of the people, than with the presence of Princes. Don john de Austria, a man most worthily deserving so noble a Father as Charles the Emperor (though not more famous by his Father's glory, than his own virtue) by reason of a vow came this year to visit the House of Loreto; 
The piety and devotion of Don john de Austria & his gifts.  who five years before being to fight against the Turks in a battle by sea, had made a vow to the B. Virgin to visit her sacred House, if he were living, when the victory was gotten of the Barbarians. But having obtained this vow, public affairs one after an other hindered him, that until this time he could not perform his promise. Now therefore being at Naples with a little more quietness and freedom of mind, neither the horror of the sharp winter, nor the care of public and private business, nor the entreaty of the Nobility and people, could make him to give over this journey to the House of Loreto in the depth of winter, when the ways were covered with ice & snow, and rivers for the most part, overflown. And foul tempestuous weather, made the piety of the good Prince more notable. For passing on horseback by the Port of Recanati, and beholding the House of Loreto a far of, with great devotion, he put of his hat, to salute and reverence the B. Virgin Mother of God: and setting aside all care towards himself, he turned it to the veneration of the heavenly Queen. For neither the rain, nor the sharpness of the weather, could once move him to cover his head, so greatly had he devoted himself, and his head to the B. Virgin, by whose protection (as he believed) he was preserved alive and well. Assoon as he came to the sacred House, he washed away all the sins of his former life by Confession, & gave manifold thanks to our B. Lady, offering a great sum of money when he performed his vow, & both by word and example stirred his companions to like devotion. And after he had dutifully performed this vow, he returned to Naples, carring with him great love and affection to the B. Virgin of Loreto.   

The singular piety and munificence of joane de Austria the great Duchess of Tuscanie. CHAP. XXV.  
AT that time most Noble Women did not yield to Princes in piety & devotion towards the B. Virgin of Loreto. Four years before (for it behoveth him that followeth the course of things & persons, some times to neglect the order of the times) in the entrance and beginning of the Popedom of Gregory the xiii. joane de Austria the daughter of Ferdinand the Emperor, and wife of Francis the Great Duke of Tuscany, came to Loreto, intending to satisfy her long desire of seeing the B. Virgin. whereupon by the Pope's commandment, she was received with Princely entertainment in all his Dominions, by Paul Odescalco Bishop of Atria and Pena; who for that purpose was sent from the City by the Pope himself, that he might accompany her to the most desired House of the B. Virgin. Under the walls of Recanati, the godly woman beholding the House of Loreto a far of, forthwith came out of her Coach, and kneeling down, reverently saluted the Mother of God: from whence performing the rest of that journey on foot, all her train followed the example of their Lady, who came into Loreto in a white and a plain garment, showing thereby the great purity of her mind. Her modesty was also very singular. For being brought into the most sacred House of the B. Virgin by two Bishops, without regard of Cushions or Tapestry, she fell down on her knees on the bare floor; devoutly worshipped the King and the Queen of heaven, in time past the Inhabitants, but now the Governors of that House: with flowing tears besought pardon for herself and her husband's, and by prayer entreated peaceable wedlock and issue-male. Soon after devoutly receiving the sacred Mysteries, she spent all the night following in prayer, with humble supplication before the B. Virgin, doing also the like the two days and nights that followed: such strength did her fervent devotion and piety bring unto her. And at her departure, 
The worthy gifts or the great Duchess of Tuscany.  she hung up two hearts of gold in golden chains, to be a monument, that she was either most dear to her and her husband, or else that the B. Virgin, the author of concord, would make her nusbands' heart such a one unto her, as she knew hers to be unto him. And not cotenting herself with these Donaries, she departed fully determined to honour the B. Virgin of Loreto with some yearly gift, which as long as she lived, she did more carefully than she purposed. A worthy Image of silver of Christ Crucified, with a great Cross of Ebony, four curious Candlesticks of silver, of a cubit and a half, ornaments for the Bishop, Priest, Ministers, and the Altar, made of gold and silver, double curled and embroidered, a golden garment for the B. Virgin made with marvelous art; also other furniture for the Altar and the holy Chalices, beautified with imbrodery, jewels, gold, and silver, were the worthiest gifts of joane de Austria: whose prayer and Donaries obtained her desire. For soon after this Pilgrimage to Loreto, she had issue-male by her husband, a pattern of his Mother's piety, borne in expectance of his Fathers, and almost of a Kingly State; who a while surviving his Mother, erected the minds of his people to the hope of undoubted felicity. But afterward the Mother dying, and by the secret judgement of God, the young child also following his Mother, filled Tuscany with sorrow and lamentation. And joane de Austria did not only adorn the House of Loreto with her act, but also with her example. For not long after Margaret de Austria (that out of the same family examples may be showed, not only of virtue in men, but also of piety in women) the daughter of Charles the V and wife of Octavius Farnesius Duke of Parma, came to Loreto with a great company of Noble men: where rightly receiving the mysteries of Confession and the most holy Eucharist, for the space of three days, she was always present in the Church at divine service, and in the most Majestical Chapel itself prayed to God & his B. Mother, not so long, 
The gift of Margaret de Austria.  as devoutly: and last of all putting a great quantity of gold into the ark, honoured the B. Virgin with gifts worthy such a woman.   

The Duchess of Lorraine being brought to Loreto sick of the Palsy, is cured by Miracle. CHAP. XXVI.  
THIS praise was not proper to the women of Austria and Italy. 
Annal. Laur. Rier. Victo. Brigant.  Christerne or Christine the daughter of the King of Denmark, and of the emperors sister, Charles the V being Duchess of Lorraine, and a woman of manlike valour, exceeding piety, great age, and much hindered with age and the palsy determined to come to Loreto to perform her vow: who at the entreaty of her friends, would never give consent that the Pope himself should exchange that vow into other works of piety; so fervent was her desire to see the B. Virgin of Loreto. Therefore assoon as she and her most Princely train came into Italy (but specially into Picene) she made haste to the place, whether she was bound, well hoping to recover perfect health, by the help of our B. Lady. whereupon in the very entrance of the most sacred House, her soul was not only replenished with heavenly joy, but also her body restored to perfect health. And perceiving that the use and strength of those members (wherein she was molested) was restored unto her by miracle, first beyond her custom she stood on her feet by herself alone, to make trial of her strength: then seeing the thing succeeded well, without any help at all, she went joyfully about the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, all her familiar friends admiring the miracle, and greatly extolling the worthy benefit of God and his B. Mother. But Christine, whom that thing did most concern, entering again into the most Majestical Chapel, with flowing tears of joy, fell down before the Queen of heaven; made no end of praising the divine benefit, no end of thanksgiving; and dedicated herself and all hers to God and his B. Mother. And afterward that a monument of so great a benefit might ever remain at Loreto, in sight of the B. Virgin, she hung up in a chain of gold, a great heart crowned with solid gold, which for that purpose she brought with her from home: which done, she laid out Princely gifts, a Crownet of unions and orient pearls, a Carcanet of precious stones, silver vestments of very curious damaske-worke for the Altar, Priest and Ministers sacrificing with solemnity: and last of all, she increased these Princely gifts with a great sum of money. Neither did she departed thence unrewarded. For Pope Gregory the xiii. sent unto her from the City a most ample jubiley, which she with her whole train (in which were almost five hundred people) rightly received. But the sorrowful message of the death of Sebastian, King of Portugal (her sister's son) did not a little trouble her heart being made most joyful with these heavenly gifts: yet in so great and sudden a grief, the worthy virtue of the courageous and godly woman was not a little manifested: because from mourning for the King her Cousin, she employed herself to help his soul, and celebrated his funerals with the greatest pomp that might be; but so, that in the House of Loreto itself she procured very many masses to be said for him. And finally being inflamed with Christian charity, she herself did twice visit the hospital of Loreto, bestowing on every sick body two Crowns in gold, with no less praise of humanity than liberality.   

Two, thrown very dangerously from their horses, are delivered from death. CHAP. XXVII.  
IT is less admirable if you consider the persons, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  but if the things themselves, more marvelous, which happened few years before. 
The Lady Susan Thainonio is delivered from death  The Lady Susan wife of james Thainonio a worthy Knight of Cordavella, being thrown to the ground by the horse whereon she road, came to exceeding danger by so great a fall: For she lost all sense, by the breaking or disjointing of her bones, and by little and little the vital heat forsaking all the body, the skilfullest Physicians despaired of her life. whereupon the Priest recommending her (as the use is) to God and his Saints, and now and then sprikling her with holy water, provided for the salvation of her soul, being ready to departed. Meanwhile james much grieving the misfortune of his most dear wife, entered into the next Church, where kneeling down, and lifting up both eyes and hands to heaven with many tears he devoutly invocated the B. Virgin of Loreto, promising & vowing to go to the House of Loreto, if she preserved her by her help, whom no human help could save. His vow had good effect. For he had scarce made this promise, but the woman began to be better, and in short time recovered, having her bones and limbs cured by miracle. And because the Knight would in no wise neglect his vow, he and his wife came to Loreto the year 1576. (famous and memorable for the jubiley) and brought to the Mother of God for a votive gift, a silver plate, with the Image of the B. Virgin of Loreto, by which on the one side, the Image of the man, on the other the Image of the woman prayin devoutly: And the plate itself hath a short inscription which doth briefly relate the miracle, for a monument thereof to posterity. About the same time there happened such an other. 
Nicolas Pavonius is also delivered from death  Nicolas Pavonius a worthy Citizen of Catana, managing his horse among his companions, was cast headlong on the ground by the horse falling in his swift course; where he lay without life with the bruise of his body, & the bursting of his arm all to pieces. Forthwith his servants took him up like to one giving up the ghost, and carried him home, having little use of reason, and also sent presently for Surgeons, who being overcome with the greatness of his danger, pronounced that there was no way but one. whereupon by persuasion of his friends, Pavonius called on our B. Lady of Loreto, with this vow, if he recovered his health, he promised to go to the House of Loreto, to give her thanks. And soon after, a most pleasant sleep came upon him, in which a glorious form of the B. Virgin of Loreto was presented unto him, who with the touch of her hand presently cured his grieved members. And the event showed that it was no deceitful dream. For Nicolas awaking out of his sleep, and finding that his limbs were cured by miracle, leapt joyfully out of his bed, made haste to Loreto and performed his vow.   

A certain person, who was taken out of the hands of his enemies, when he had received twelve deadly wounds, is cured by miracle. CHAP. XXVIII.  
HERE followeth another in another kind, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  of special admiration. john Philip Ambrose, a Neapolitan, a man of small substance, but greatly devoted to the B. Virgin of Loreto, the 79. year of this age, going unarmed amongst his armed enemies, was most tumultuously circumvented and wounded to death. For being thrust in with many wounds, how could he be far from his end, when he had none in his company to aid him? & they were so enraged, that they would not cease to wound him, until they saw him thoroughly dead. whereupon Ambrose being at the point of death, devoutly called on the B. Virgin of Loreto; & his prayer was to good effect. For he was presently taken out of the hands of these furious men, & by heavenly protection escaped present death. He himself (as afterward he reported) perceived that he was carried miraculously from thence about an arrows flight, 
The present help of our B. Lady at the hour of death.  where his friends receiving him, conveyed him hom languishing and half dead. But for all that he had not escaped the danger of death, unless he had gotten new help from our B. Lady in the said peril. For his enemies had given him no less than twelve wounds, whereof many were deadly, which the Physicians beholding, utterly despaired of his life. But the sick man calling to mind the heavenly help, which he had lately obtained of our B. Lady, believed that so great a miracle, was to some great purpose. Therefore whence he received help against the weapons of his enemies, thence he began to hope for cure of his wounds. And behold a new miracle. For presently the B. Virgin, whom he devoutly invocated, making heavenly salve for his sores, made him who was held for a dead man to arise out of his bed safe and sound, and to go in continent to Loreto, to perform his vow, and to be a worthy document of the help which he had received from Loreto: For twice at the same time, he was delivered from death itself, and by known and unknown, was no more called john Philip, but Lazarus revived.   

The Mother and the Daughter are delivered from death, others from other diseases. CHAP. XXIX.  

Annal. Laur. Rier.  ABOUT the same time the B. Virgin of Loreto was as favourable in curing of diseases as wounds. There was one Melido a Citizen of Guasto in Abruzzo, whose wife and daughter were afflicted with so grievous & long a fever, that being in great extremity, and having hallowed Candles burning at their heads (as the use is) both at once were upon departing. But Melido, who loved them both entirely, purposing to try the last refuge of all, with great sorrow sell down on his knees, and with gushing tears implored the help of the 〈◊〉 Virgin of Loreto, making a vow with his pra●er, and putting great confidence in her benignity and help. His hope deceived him not. A marvelous thing. Suddenly his wife & his daughter were delivered out of danger, and in few days perfect well; & being brought to Loreto by Melido himself, the year 1579. they performed to the B. Virgin Mother of God, the vow which he made for their recovery. The year following john Peter of Florence having a daughter by Anne. Bassa of Verselli, his wife, blind in both her eyes, assoon as she was rightly baptised, Anne her Mother devoutly invocated the B. Virgin of Loreto with this vow; If sight of one eye only were given unto her child, she promised to bring her to Loreto with the first conveniency. It appeared strait that her vow was pleasing to our B. Lady. For by and by, without the help of man, 
A blind infant is restored unto her eight.  the blind infant began to see with one eye. And the Mother being very careful of her vow went speedily to Loreto, carrying her one eyed daughter in her lap, to be an occasion of a new miracle, and not only a witness of the old. For the nearer she came to the House of Loreto, the better the girl saw, so that when she entered into the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, to give her due thanks (which was on the 3. of the Nones of May the 80. year of this age) the child saw perfectly with the right eye, and instantly also began to see with the left; so much doth God and his B. Mother surpass the vows of godly people. Here followeth another in a different kind, but peradventure no less a miracle. Angelus Bernardinus, 
A child doth get up a bone that stuck overthwart in his throat.  of Aemilia, had a little son, who as he was eating, had a bone (of meat, as I imagine, for it is not related) stuck overthwart in his throat: so that by no human help it could be pulled forth. And the swelling of his throat, bringing with it an ague, tormented the child so pitifully, that he lived in little hope of amendment. But the Father beholding his most dear son at the point of death, with flowing tears suppliantly implored the B. Virgin of Loreto for his recovery. And without delay, the child coughing up the bone, was delivered from the imminent danger by miracle, and out of hand was brought to Loreto by his Father, and presented before our B. Lady; where, as he was performing his vow, the ague which came with the other grief was also taken away, that the benefit might be doubled. There is another more usual, but yet not to be omitted. Peter Maria of Florence pining away with long pain of the gout, 
The gout is cured.  was so taken in his feet, that without the help of crutches, he was not able to go: who at last rejecting the help of Physicians, earnestly invocated the B. Virgin of Loreto. His prayer had effect. Forth with the disease was miraculously taken away, and he recovering the use of his feet, went to Loreto to give hearty thanks to the B. Virgin, and in token of the Miracle, before her most sacred Chapel, hung up the very Crutches whereon he was accustomed to lain, when he was sick.   

Three Cities are delivered from the plague. CHAP. XXX.  

Annal. Laur. Rier.  AT those times the B. Virgin of Loreto did not only impart present help to particular Citizens, but even to whole Cities, in time of their distress. A great sickness spreading much abroad the 77. year of this age, and going almost over all Sicily, wasted her most noble Cities with continual funerals, to show dreadful spectacles to them that remained alive. 
Palermo is delivered from the plague.  Whereupon the City of Palermo seeing the sickness still increase, and doing what she could to appease the wrath of Almighty God, by vow and invocation of the B. Virgin of Loreto happily escaped that danger, and faithfully performed her vow. At this day there is extant a great silver plate of 9 pound weight, wherein is expressed the purtraite of our B. 
The gift of the Citizens of Palermo  Lady of Loreto, sitting on a House: under which is a worthy figure of the City Palermo, with this inscription, in token that she was delivered from the sickness by heavenly protection.  
THE HAPPY CITY OF PALERMO METROPOLITAN OF TRINACRIA, DEDICATED IT TO THE B. VIRGIN OF LORETO FORESCAPING THE PLAGVE, BY HER PROTECTION, THE YEAR OF OUR SALVATION M.D.LXXVII.  
Almost two years after, Puy no mean City of France, distant three days journey from Lions, was made partaker of the like help of the B. Virgin of Loreto in greater danger. For being wasted of her inhabitants and Citizens with a long and a vehement plague, she seemed not far from utter desolation. Therefore the Citizens (whom the sickness had spared) being frighted with so cruel & desperate and evil, thought it most convenient, to pacity the wrath of Alm. God by the intercession of his most B. Mother. whereupon by common consent, making a solemn vow to the B. Virgin of Loreto, and prostrating themselves every where in their Churches, by humble prayer they entreated pardon of their sins, and an end of that sickness. Neither in vain. For assoon as they had made this vow, their City was delivered and restored to her former state. Whereupon certain men brought votive gifts to Loreto, 
The gift of the City of Puy.  with public testimony, to be a monument of the vow of the Citizens of Puy, and of their delivery from the sickness, by the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto. Lions a chief and a noble City of France, 
The City of Lions is delivered from the plague.  was neither free from the common calamity, nor devoid of the protection of Loreto. A great plague consuming householders, rich and poor, made the Magistrates (void of human help) to turn people's hearts & vows to God & his B. Mother. So by a public vow, which they made for deliverance of their City, they implored the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto: whose prayer was presently heard, the infected cured, and the plague taken away. 
The gift of the City of Lios.  Whereupon the 81. of this age, the grateful City sent a votive gift to the B. Virgin, neither unbeseeming the devotion of the Citizens, nor the magnificence of the City itself; to wit: a Chalice of silver, engraven and guilt, excelling others, aswell for workmanship as greatness, and other gifts of no small price, in token of the help which they received from Loreto, and of their devotion to the B. Virgin herself. In the mean season, Robert Saxatellus being created Bishop of Pisaurus, julius Amicus was elected Governor of Loreto, who albeit he had no joyful times by reason of the plague of Lombardy; yet in his time the sacred House itself, was not only well adorned, but also the sacred furniture and ornaments thereof had good increase. The Princess of Venusia preseted certain eyes of gold, & a Crownet of silver. 
The donaries of others.  Sforza Pallavicino a silver Galley of 5. pound weight. Card. Sittico Ab-Altemps for health restored to a child his near kinsman, his Image of silver, of ten pound weight. Delia Sanseverina Countess of Briatico, a worthy lamp of silver hanging, of xxij. pound weight. The Cardinal of Est, a golden heart. The marquess of Guasto a Casket of silver, about xuj. pound weight. The Princess of Sulmo, a silver basin and ewer, of no mean workmanship and weight. Card. Riario, a golden Cross, notable for fashion and value. All the lesser I omit, as a thing not worth the labour to recount.    

THE FIFT BOOK OF THE HISTORY OF LORETO: Collected by the Reverend F. HORATIUS TURSELLINUS Of the Society of JESYS.  

The gifts of the Cardinal of Urbine, and of other Princes. CHAP. I.  
THE death and piety of the Patron, 
Cod. Laur. Vict. Brig.  augmented the wealth of the House of Loreto. For the Cardinal of Urbine (to be no less liberal to the B. Virgin of Loreto at his death, 
The gift of the Card. of Urbine.  than he had been in his life) giving most of the sacred ornature of his Chapel, which was very rich and costly, to our B. Lady by his will; his Executors sent a goodly Cross of silver, two Candlesticks of notable workmanship, two Pontifical vestments of cloth of gold, as many for the Altar and the Priest of cloth of gold, linen for Altars, veils & holy Chalices, wrought with gold and silver; a movable Altar, (called the Altarstone) well set with precious stones, certain Chalices of gold, two Cruets of silver with their ewer, richly engraven, and other such like, in token of the Roborean munificence. And to the Cardinal of Urbine in the Patronship of Loreto, succeeded Card. Morono, who appointed Vi●uent Casale (a man of approved piety and e●●●●t) to govern the State of Loreto. In ●hose times, the ornaments and furniture thereof had no small increase. A curious lamp of silver, with the bowl of the same substance, of xv. pound weight, and a silver Censer for perfumes, were the gifts of the marquess of the Holy Cross. A piece of gold from Charles the Archduke of Austria, with his name written therein. Maximiliana daughter to the Duke of Bavaria, a Crownet of rich amber▪ adorned with gold and precious stones, used rather in banqueting than in devotion, a golden Cross garnished with pearl and works engraven, and besides those, other jewels. Albertus' Marquis of Aquaviua his own Image of silver, as if he were praying, of ten pound weight. Albertus' Duke of Bavaria a great Cross of emeralds, garnished with gold and Carbuncles, and set as it were in a mountain of Crystal, which, as they say, is thought to be worth twelve thousand Crowns. And this notable gift, the conveyance of the giver made more notable. For it is very evident, that this Princely gift was wrapped in ordinary linen, and brought to Loreto, by an obscure man, who by no means would tell who sent it; whereby the giver of so worthy a gift, was a long time unknown to mortal men. But by the providence of Almighty God (to whom not only so worthy a gift, but also the singular disposition of him that gave it, was very acceptable) the giver himself was at last disclosed, with no less praise of Christian modesty, then of Princely munificence. Amadeus a Noble man (son of Emanuel Philibertus the Duke) his own Image in plate of silver, set in gold and precious stones. Virginia Sabellia Vi●ellia, a votive Image a plate of gold, enclosed in Ebony, and covered on the inside with velvet. Constantia Caretta a golden Crown, adorned with precious stones and orient pearls. Cardinal Madruzzo a great golden button (such as Cardinals and Bishops are wont to use in their Pontifical robes) beautified with three ranks of pearl in knots. The Cardinal of Austria a Cross of gold, standing in a golden mountain, adorned with most precious jewels. And these were the worthy gifts of Noble men and Noble women. Other ordinary donaries were sent from meaner men, which is not our intent to rehearse. Notwithstanding I can not conceal one of this kind, not so much worth for the value, as for the prayer of the giver. A gold ring enriched with a fair emerald, being the gift of a man unknown to mortal men, though well known to heaven, was found in a Chalice, with these words written in a schedle.  

O Peerless Virgin make us meek and chaste  
O love which still dost burn and never wast,  
Inflame my frozen heart; accept of me  
Thy servant, though I much unworthy be.    

The solemnity of the Church of Loreto is more graced CHAP. II.  
MEAN time according to his office, 
Annal. Laur. Rier.  Casale the Governor burning with zeal of the dignity of Loreto, used all diligence to enkindle the devotion and endeavours of the Canons, and of all the Clergy. For sometimes by exhortation and entreaty, he excited each in particular, than all in general to perform their Offices and duty with diligence and care; who not only with words, but also (which is the effectuallest kind of persuasion) with deed and example, moved them to employ their diligent travel in that most majestical Cell, in behalf of God and his B. Mother. For when the Governor himself was the first, that performed all the offices of the Canons, either in singing of divine prayer, or else in hearing of Confessions, shame did not a little excite the Canons & others to do the like. And albeit their labour was doubled, yet all did willingly imitate his virtuous example, none withdrawing himself from that work, which he undertook. whereupon Casale using the opportunity of their diligent and faithful travel, dealt and effected with the Patron and with the Pope himself, seeing the the labours of the Clergy of Loreto were increased, that their pensions might likewise be amended; which made them all more diligent and careful. Having provoked the Canons to maintain the solemnity of the Church with hope of this new liberality, he adorned the Penitentiaries with surplices and silk labels (called stoles) whereby as great grace was done to the Church itself, as to them that used them. Then to twelve boys, which himself had instituted to help at Mass, he gave for habit the red garment. And because the old Quyre was too strait for the Priests and Quyristers not a little increased, 
The Prince of Bysinia doth garnish and adorn the Choir  he made and adorned a new one far more large and commodious at the cost of the Prince of Bisinia: which being beautifully vaunted and adorned with curious pictures drawn in tables, and with seats, is now used. Moreover for solemn ornature of the Altar, he made the silver Image of the twelve Apostles of a Cubit and a half, of excellent workmanship; which (as it is said) were all made of the votive Images of silver, defaced and spoiled with antiquity, being every one about 60. pound in weight. Whereby we may conjecture, what plenty there was of such Images in those days, which made the sum of seven hundred and twenty pound weight; and also what abundance and multitude there is at this present of such kind of gifts. This doubtless was a worthy and a frutifull invention of Casale, 
Vict. Brigant.  that the strangers of all nations might have means to know the history of Loreto, the sum whereof being long agone set out by Tereman the Governor, 
The history of the house of Loreto is s●t forth in the Church in 8. languages.  he procured to be translated into the eight chiefest languages, to wit, Greek, Arabic, Spanish, French, Dutch, Sclavonian, Latin, Italian and causing the same to be curiously set forth, in as many great tables, he placed them in the midst of the Church, thinking it no less decorum to our B. Lady of Loreto, to have her History published in all languages, than her House honoured of all nations.   

A College of slavonians is instituted: and Pilgrims (specially of the better sort) are bountifully entertained. CHAP. III.  
BUT Pope Gregory not forgetting that which he determined in the beginning of his Popedom, that is to say, to amplify the State of the House of Loreto, and of the Christian world, as at Rome, and else where, of divers Nations: so at last he determined at Loreto to institute a College of slavonians, that it might be a great solace and aid to that afflicted Nation. whereupon he gave commandment that three hundred young men should be instructed there in learning and good manners, not only to be a glory to the Sclavonian people, but also an ornament to the House of Loreto itself. To whom he allowed sufficient maintenance out of the treasury of Loreto, and certain houses, where the hospital was before, building a new hospital in an other place. These Sclavonian students were appointed to be present in the Church, on festival days in their surplices, to assist and serve at high Mass: and to be instructed and taught, were committed to the Fathers of the Society of jesus. Mean while the Pope using all diligence to increase and beautify the sacred ornature of the Church, set up an other pair of Organs, of great variety and curiosity, garnished with gold and painting. From which time the Church of Loreto hath had two notable pair of Organs, to wit, them of julius, and of Gregory, that great variety of music might grace the solemn service. Cardinal Morono departing this life, the Pope preferred Cardinal Vastavillanus, his sister's son, to that dignity, 
Vitalis Leonorius Governor of Loreto.  who assoon as Vincent Casale was elected Bishop of Massa, appointed Vitalis Leonorius (a man not to be misliked) to govern Loreto; who, being a very industrious man, with careful manuring of the ground, increased the revenues of the House of Loreto, and nothing at all diminishing her benignity to poor Pilgrims, 
The hospitalyty of the House of Loreto.  provided to entertain Noble men very liberally and bountifully. For which purpose he magnificently adorned the new and goodly parlour, lately built in the Pope's Palace, where he entertained principal men very carefully, providing for them whatsoever belonged to good hospitality. whereupon all returned home full of joy and comfort, reporting that they were very liberally used and entreated at Loreto; which was as profitable to the sacred House, as honourable to our B. Lady.   

The piety and munificence of Duke joyeuse, and of the King of France. CHAP. FOUR  
NEVER before did more Peers of divers Nations honour the House of Loreto, 
Vict Brigant.  with their presence and gifts, as witnesseth Victor Brigantius (who being a godly Priest and Resident at Loreto, wrote an Appendix of the History of Loreto) affirming that now at this time many principal men came to visit the sacred House of Loreto, and to present most worthy gifts. Duke joyeuse coming out of France to Loreto to salute the Mother of God, and showing no less singes of devotion then of liberality, spent eight whole days in the service of our B. Lady, and in admiration of the House of Loreto, within which time he thrice received the heavenvly banquet in the most Majestical Cell of the B. Virgin, and at his departure put four thousand Crowns into the ark with memorable munificence. But not contenting himself with this gift, as he returned by Floremce from Rome from reverencing the Pope in dutiful sort, he sent the like sum of gold to the B. Virgin fo● a gift, adding thereunto two silver lamps of great weight, which burn continually before the B. Virgin, in token of the notable and almost Princely munificence of Duke joyeuse. This money built good part of the lodgings which were appointed to entertain principal men, to wit, those which at this day do stand right against the Church of Loreto: which albeit they were quickly brought unto their full height; notwithstanding they remain rude and unperfect. Neither did the King of France himself yield unto the Princely munificence of a Duke of France. 
A worthy gift of the King of France.  For when by reason of public affairs, Henry the iij. could not himself visit & honour the B. Virgin of Loreto with gifts, in his place he sent unto her a Princely gift by a Portugese, one of the chief Peers of France, the year 1584. which was a worthy Cup, to obtain by the intercession of the B. Virgin, issue male for the King and his Kingdom; a gift for substance and work most excellent. For the Cup itself is of a hollowed gem, at this day called the Azure-stone, ancient writers call it a sapphire (as some think.) It is also very big and intermingled with golden veins, the cover whereof is of turned Crystal set in gold, and adorned with many excellentiewells. In the top of the cover an Angel of gold doth hold in his hand a lily of Diamonds, the arms of the Kingdom of France; which lily doth consist of three Diamonds joined together in the gold with admirable art. The foot of the Cup being Emerald is bound about and supported with gold, which is notably adorned with precious stones & rich orient pearls. In the bottom of the Emerald foot, which we said to be of gold, the giver, and the cause of his gift, is engraven in manner following.  

O Queen, who by thy worthy Son,  
Didst joyful blessing bring  
To all the world, bless with a Son  
The Kingdom and the King.   
HENRY THE III. KING OF FRANCE AND POLONY, THE YEAR OF OUR SALVATION M.D.LXXXIV.  
But by the secret judgement of God, sometimes that effect is not given to our prayers, as we wish, that they may be heard for our good: The gift was accepted, but the vow not obtained.   

Other gifts of the Nobility of France. CHAP. V.  
AFTERWARD the Duke D'Oaumale one of the chief Princes of France, 
Vict. Brigant.  came to visit the House of Loreto, where rightly receiving the sacred mysteries, he spent almost four days in the most Majestical Cell of the B. Virgin very devoutly in prayer, and at his departure henoured the Mother of God with gifts. Shortly after, a worthy gift of the Duke of Espernon was brought to Loreto, 
The fall of the Duke of Espernon.  graced with a notable miracle. The Duke of Espernon going from Gascony to Lions, to Henry King of France, in the way met the Duke of joyeuse travalling to the same place. Who after mutual salutations, began to travel together, and coming to a narrow way among steepy hills, the horse of Espernon began to fling, which turned to the danger of his Master. For as he earnestly endeavoured, to stop his horse from yearking and plunging, he was cast headlong from a high rock, where his servants taking him up for dead, carried him speedily to the village next unto Lions. Of all others, Espernon was most dear to the King, and the King himself being moved with this dreadful message, made haft unto him, and there passed all the night, procuring remedies to be applied to his most dear friend with all diligence. For whom also joyeuse being very solicitous, made a vow to the B. Virgin of Loreto, for his recovery, and to good effect. For within few hours, breath beginning to pass more freely, Espernon lifted up his eyes, and by little & little coming to himself, knew his friends about him. whereupon joyeuse seeing him of understanding (for the vehemency of his pain was something abated) and perceiving that he felt the greatness of his danger, he came unto him, and bidding him be of good comfort, persuaded him to have great confidence, that our B. Lady of Loreto would help him, to whom a little before, he had made a vow in his behalf, ask him whether he would ratify it; which seeing he could not confirm by words, he signified by the beck of his head. An admirable thing to be said: within few hours he received all his senses, to gather with his voice, and in few days arose out of his bed in perfect health. Wherefore being very mindful of so great a benefit, he sent a certain man to Loreto, to perform the said vow with reverence. 
The gift of the Duke of Espernon.  By whom he dedicated two Angels of a Cubit, of solid silver, which shine continually with burning lights on either side the feet of our B. Lady, to be a monument to posterity, that the use of that light was restored unto him, by the intercession of the B. Virgin of Loreto. Claudia of Turnon imitating this piety of the French Princes, sent a silver figure of the Castle of Turnon, either as a votive gift, for the preserving of her Castle, or else as a voluntary, to obtain the protection of the B. Virgin for the same: wherein was written. THIS IS THE FIGURE OF THE CASTLE OF TURNON.   

The worthy gifts and piety of William Duke of Bavaria, & of other Princes of Germany. CHAP. VI  
AS SOON as the constant fame of so evident a miracle in a most noble Prince, 
Vict. Brig.  was published and known in Germany, many of the Nobility were stirred to visit & reverence the House of Loreto with gifts. Of whom William Duke of Bavaria deserved the first praise and commendation, a man for wealth and piety, without controversy the chiefest of the Germane Nation; who taking no small joy for the recovery of the Marquis of Baden his kinsman, & also well remembering his Father's munificence to the B. Virgin of Loreto, sent and brought to Loreto, donaries of Princely munificence. Among the gifts which he sent were a most excellent horse; a plate of silver enclosed in Ebony, which doth represent our B. Lady carrying the sweet child JESUS in her lap, with S. joseph, the companion of her slight into Egypt; a silver Candlestick hanging, very notable for weight and workmanship. For the weight is eighty pound, and the work such, that four and twenty branches, as it may seem, shoot out of the same stem, all so exquisitely and orderly disposed, that they may distinctly hold so many wax candles; which doth hang continually in the sacred Cell of the B. Virgin before her glorious Image, as a very worthy gift of the Duke of Bavaria. But in this it is more notable, that he hath also endued it with a yearly pension. For by name of a dowry, the Duke sent with it a perpetual stipend, that every year upon forty festival and solemn days, the same might burn before the B. Virgin, with four and twenty white Candles of wax. Soon after the Duke himself followed his gifts, and four only accompanying him to Loreto, with fresh horses he posted thither unknown, the year 1585. The exceeding modesty of so great a Prince, made his piety the more notable. For contemning human delicacies, that he might taste the divine more abundantly, he esteemed the public and magnificent lodgings assigned for the entertainment of Princes, less than a private and mean hospital. For instead of the trouble and state of a Princely Court, desiring to give himself to religious quietness, he went very familiarily to the Fathers of the Society of jesus, of which order he hath deserved great honour, and lodged with them certain days, being very well contented with ordinary fare and entertainment. But so great virtue could not long be kept secret. For the Governor of Loreto, understanding of the coming of the Duke of Bavaria, came presently unto him, and very courteously invited, requested, urged, importuned to give him entertainment; but at last seeing that he refused it with a most resolute mind, he departed frustrated of his desire. And the modesty of the Duke was as notable in the Church as in his lodging. For a footstool to kneel upon, and a chair to sit in, being prepared for him with Princely state, he so contemned them, that he did not so much as look at them, because he came not to seek sumptuousness, but piety and devotion in the House of our B. Lady of Loreto. Further in the most majestical Cell of the B. Virgin, his christian humility and piety was so notable, that others may admire it. For he prayed among the multitude, with such submission of mind and body, as that you would have taken him for one of the people: because he did often (as I believe) recall to mind the humility of the Son of God, who when he was in the form of God, there exinanited himself, taking the form of a servant. He was so long in prayer, that he might seem to dwell in the sacred House of the B. Virgin, and at his departure left behind him, as notable signs of his munificence, as of his piety and devotion. 
The worthy gift of the Duke of Bavaria.  His chiefest gift was a little book of solid gold, which being divided three manner of ways, in four leaves, seemeth to contain beautiful pictures and Images wrought in precious stone. The cover whereof is made of gold, orient pearl and rich jewels, with admirable art, and hangeth by three chains of gold, coming through a gold ring to be fastened in a great sapphire. This gift is said to be worth eight thousand Crowns: and there is scarce an other to be found among all the donaries and Treasure of the House of Loreto, which strangers behold with more delight, and desire; so greatly doth the ornature, & the exceeding beauty of the inward pictures and Images themselves, delight the eyes of the beholders, art seeming to contend with the value of the thing itself. He also gave a golden Image of Christ our Lord, representing his glorious Resurrection and his coming out of the Sepulchre, which doth glitter with diamonds & Carbuncles. This exceeding piety of the Duke of Bavaria, was an example to many great men of Germany, to salute and reverence the B. Virgin of Loreto with gifts, whose coming happened afterward, in the Popedom of Xystus. V Notwithstanding the Duchess of Brunswick brought silver attire for the B. Virgin embroidered with gold, 
The gift of the Duchess of Brunswick.  and goodly furniture for the Altar, shining with pearl, diamond, and Carbuncle, Gregory the xiii. being Pope. Also after his Embassage to Rodulph the Emperor, Cardinal Madruzzo presented to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift, 
The gift of Cardinal, Madruzzo.  a silver Cross (being the ensign of such Legates) in token of his Legacy happily performed by her protection and help.   

The piety and gifts of the Princes of Italy. CHAP. VII.  
AT that time the piety and liberality of the Nobility of Italy was very notable. 
Vict Brigant.  john Piccolhomini sent a silver plate representing two mules carrying a horslitter, 
The gift of john Picolhomini and of many others.  whereof the one doth strike with his heels a man lying on the ground, no doubtful argument of danger eschewed by the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto. john Baptista Duara Gonzaga silver fetters, instead of the yron-ones, wherewith he was fettered, in token that he got his liberty by the favour of our B. Lady of Loreto. Lewis Martinengo of Bressa, four Chalices of silver, guilt. The marquess of Est, her own, and the Image of her son praying to our B. Lady in plate of silver, of 14. pound weight. The Duke of Atria, two Images of Angels, of a Cubit and a half, of excellent work, of xxxuj. pound weight, which are placed before the B. Virgin on the Altar, and present continually burning lights, which the inscription engraven in the base, doth show to be votive gifts. The Duke of Terra-nova, a silver lamp hanging, of xxij. pound, very notable both for workmanship and weight. Emanuel Philibertus Duke of Savoy his own Image, adorned with a Crown and a sceptre, made all of pure gold in manner of a suppliant, of ten pound weight. Cardinal Columna the Legate of Picene, a silver Cup of excellent work, of no small weight. Cardinal Arigonio a golden Chalice of great price, by reason of jewels and pearls; a Crystal Cross with the Image of Christ of gold, and four silver Candlesticks of great beauty. Cardinal Riario ornature of damask for the Altar and the Priest. Augustine Cusano (who afterward was admitted into the College of the Cardinals) furniture for the Priest and the Altar of gold and silver; And Pope Gregory himself much rejoicing, that the sacred House of Loreto was thus reverenced and adorned with gifts, desired to have a special gift of his own, to remain there for ever. The fourth Sunday of Lent (called Dominica Laetare, of the Introite of the Mass) of an ancient & solemn custom, the Roman Bishops do consecrate a golden Rose: The stem or plant whereof is of flourishing roses of gold, which being put into a golden Cup, & standing on a triple foot of gold, is more than a Cubit & half in height, said to be worth a thousand Crowns. And this Pontifical gift, wont (for the most part) to be presented to Queens, Gregory sent to the B. Virgin of Loreto, as Queen of Heaven and earth. And in the middle of the Cup, there is a godly inscription, for a remembrance of him that gave it. About the same time Nicolas Caietan, the Cardinal of Sermoneta, honoured the House of Loreto with a new kind of gift: who either for the general devotion of his family (for he was of the House of Boniface the eight, whose Popedom the coming of the most sacred Cell into Italy made very famous) or else of a certain private affection, was wholly devoted to the B. Virgin of Loreto. For being well and in good heath, he chose a place for his sepulchre in the Church of Loreto, not far from the Cell of the Mother of God, and caused it to be beautified with magnificent work. The form whereof is very notable and large, adorned with sundry sorts of marble, and graced with a brazen Image of Nicolas the Cardinal of great curiosity and beauty. The marble stone underneath hath this Epitaph.  
NICOLAS CAIETAN THE CARDINAL OF SERMONETA, OF THE FAMILY OF POPE BONIFACIUS THE 8. CALLING TO MIND THAT THIS MOST SACRED HOUSE WAS SEATED HERE BY THE HANDWORKE OF GOD, ABOUT THE TIME THAT HE ENTERED INTO HIS POPEDOM, AND THAT HIMSELF HATH OBTAINED MANY THINGS OF ALMIGHTY GOD, BY THE PRAYER OF THE B. VIRGIN THE MOTHER OF GOD, AND ALSO HOPING THAT HER HELP WILL NOT FAIL HIM AT HIS DEATH: ALIWE, AND IN GOOD HEALTH, HATH PROCURED THIS MONUMENT OF MARBLE TO BE MADE FOR HIM; THAT HIS BODY MAY BE BURIED IN IT, WHEN HE SHALL DEPARTED THIS MORTAL LIFE: BEING NOW 54. YEARS OF AGE. HE DIED ALMOST AT THREESCORE, THE YEAR OF OUR SALVATION M.D.LXXXV. IN THE month OF MAY.  
And Nicolas departing this life, was brought from Rome to Loreto, where his funerals were made with great honour and solemnity; and the Sepulchre being finished long ago, his body was laid into it, and a stone put over it with this title.  
HERE I WILL DEVIL, because I HAVE CHOSEN IT  
At this day in the Church of Loreto, there is a great Hearse of cloth of gold, bordered about with a great border of black Velvet, in some places magnificently adorned with the arms of the Caietan family, and in other, with golden Crosses, in token of his stately funerals.   

The rashness of those, which took away small pieces of the stones, and the mortar of the most sacred House, is punished from heaven. CHAP. VIII.  
THE same year, to wit 1585. by a new Miracle, Almighty God showed what care he hath of the sacred House of Loreto. For a particle of one of the sacred stones was brought back out of Sicily, long after the fault was committed and punishment suffered therefore. Above twenty years, a Citizen of Palermo coming to Loreto, & secretly taking a little stone out of the sacred Cell of the Mother of God, by no show of piety in that rash deed, nor the ignorance of the Pontifical inhibition, by any means could be delivered from the wrath of God. For assoon as he returned home, forthwith he was troubled with a grievous sickness. And lest the cause of his sudden grief might be doubtful, yearly about the same time, that he committed the fault, he suffered punishment for it. whereupon strength suddenly failing him, in the month of September or October, he was molested with a grievous fever, and by judgement of the Physicians, there could be no natural cause thereof; and he acknowledged not his fault, coloured under the name of piety. But it continued 20. years. all which time there was neither cause nor end of his incurable disease. And at last, when no other cause of the sickness (still returning by course) could be found, Religion entered into his heavy mind, & being much tormented with a guilty conscience, he opened the wound unto a Priest; who told him that the cause of his sickness, was his rash piety, earnestly exhorting him to restore the sacred stone, if he would make sure way for his health. It was spoken to no deaf ears. For the sick man being commanded as it were by a heavenvly voice, delivered him the sacred stone, to be sent back to the place from whence he had taken it long ago. Assoon as it was restored, he recovered his former health. The thing is well witnessed. john Baptista Carminata, Superior of the Society of JESUS in the Province of Sicily, sent the sacred stone, with letters declaring the whole matter, to Rome, to Cardinal Vastavillano Patron of Loreto, who sent it strait to Leonorius Governor of Loreto, with the letter which he received out of Sicily, commanding that it should be carefully put into the place where it was before. whereupon assoon as it came to Loreto, Leonorius commanding a solemn procession, and going to the gate to meet it, recarried it to the most sacred House, with the greatest pomp that might be. A marvelous thing to be spoken and seen. It was scant brought unto the fortunate House of our B. Lady; when by and by (as if God had showed it) the void place appeared, whence it was evident, that fragment was taken twenty years agone; and assoon as it was put into his own place again, a remembrance was made in token of the miracle, to repress the boldness of other Pilgrims. About the same time, the new rashness of mortal men, gave God occasion to show new example, in the lesser pieces of stones. I find many examples of many, who adventuring the same, quickly smarted for their folly, until they had learned by their own harm, to restore that which they had taken from thence. But we will omit them, lest many things of one kind should breed tediousness. Neither did Almighty God seem to be more careful to preserve the sacred stones, than the mortar, wherewith the stones themselves are joined together. Alexandria is no mean City of Lombardy, built and so called by the Confederate Cities, in favour of Pope Alexander the third. A Citizen of which place coming to visit the House of Loreto, stole a little mortar out of the most sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, and returning home bruised it, and put it into a silver case, together with an AGNUS DEI. But his foolish piety was nothing pleasing to God and his B. Mother. For assoon as he hung that case about his wives neck (for what cause it is uncertain) the Prince of Devils entered into her, with no small company of his attendants: wherewith the unhappy woman being miserably vexed for the space of nine years, to her husband's great grief, at last, God of his goodness sent her remedy. john Baptista Vauninus a Priest of the Society of JESUS, preached at that time to the people of Alexandria, as the manner is. Who understanding of the matter by her husband (the author of so wicked a thing) forthwith exhorted him to restore the sacred dust; if he did, no doubt, but in short time his wife would be delivered from devils wherewith she was tormented. He was easily persuaded. For taking the sacred mortar out of the silver case, he himself delivered it to Vauninus, beseeching him to send it to Loreto with all speed. Their hope deceived them not. For within few days, three of the tormenting devils, were expelled out of the body of the possessed woman, not so much by virtue of the Exorcisms, as by the prayer of our B. Lady. whereupon Vauninus putting the said mortar into a case, sent it presently to Loreto, to the Rector of the Society of JESUS, entreating him by letter, with all speed to restore it, to the sacred House of our B. Lady, whence it was taken, and to entreat peace and pardon of the B. Virgin for that miserable woman, that by expelling the rest of the tormenting devils, she would vouchsafe to restore unto her, her former health; which afterward was found to have happened as he desired. And assoon as the mortar was brought back to Loreto, it was reserved in a convenient place, to be a document to mortal men, not to adventure the like. Also the letter of Vauninus dated on the third of the Ideses of November, the year of our Redemption 1579. is preserved likewise there in token of the miracle.   

A ship of Epidaurus is delivered out of the hands of Pirates by a worthy Miracle. CHAP. IX.  
WITH a notable and a famous Miracle, we will conclude the most worthy and most illustrious Popedom of Gregory. About that time a ship of Epidaurus being laden with rich merchandise of Constantinople returned to Epidaurus, by the Commonalty called Ragusa. Which in the midway, suddenly sustained such quietness and calm of sea, that for want of wind she could not move out of the place. Whereby many skulking Pirates were presently at hand, who spreading round about, began to assault the destitute ship withal their force. And albeit the Christians were fewer in number; yet at first they notably withstood the assault of the Barbarians; but at last being overcome with labour and wounds, they failed, as equal unto them, neither in courage nor strength. whereupon being in great danger of taking by the Barbarians, and devoutly calling to mind the manifold favours of our B▪ Lady of Loreto, all called on her with humble supplication, and vowed, if she delivered them out of that imminent danger, they would carry a goodly Chalice to the House of Loreto for a gift, and withal would there wash away the blemishes of their sins by sacred Confession. Their prayer and vow proved not in vain. For by & by a thick mist arising, so obscured the light with her darkness, that it took from the Pirates (greedily desiring so wealthy a prey) the sight of the ship of Epidaurus. For which cause the Christians acknowledged the help of the Mother of God, and exulting with joy amidst their fear, gave devout thanks to God and his B. Mother. Contrarily the Barbarians raging and grieving to see the prey taken out of their hands, endeavoured what they could, to recover the ship which they had lost. But in vain. For a certain night, as it were, hanging over the sea, took from them the sight of the vessel which they pursued, & they themselves wandered even as men in darkness. Meanwhile a prosperous wind blowing in the cloud, carried the ship along, which escaping all danger by favour of our B. Lady, arrived safe at Epidaurus, whence the Mariners and Passengers came to Loreto, to perform their vow. And this was almost all that happened at Loreto, whiles Gregory was Pope.   

Loreto is made a City by Xistus V. and adorned with a Bishops Sea. CHAP. X.  
AS Xystus V the emulator of Gregory, would not seem his inferior in other things; so would he be accounted more forward and diligent in augmenting the state of the House of Loreto. For being borne in Picene, he thought good to adorn the chief Patroness of the Picentians with all care. Therefore as it were to execute the determination of Pope Marcellus the second, he gave Loreto the title of a City, adorning her with a Bishop's Sea, & assigning certain towns there about to her jurisdiction. The first Bishop of Loreto was Francis Cantucius a Citizen of Perugia, famous for learning and sanctimony: who endued that new feat with worthy institutions and examples. But that Loreto might not have the name of a City in vain or impertinently, Xystus bought the hill next to Loreto (by the inhabitants called Monte-Regal) and purposed to level it, that he might make more space on that side, to enlarge the new City. And for furnishing the same with building, he gave commandment to all the Cities of Picene, that every one should build there, their several houses, which they willingly obeyed. Mean time, not only with force but also with money and good policy, the Pope pacified Picene, and the rest of his own dominions infested with thieves. For incensing the thieves themselves, & the banished men against their fellows, with hope of impunity and reward, he procured the Captains to be slain, and many of their followers, to be either killed by their own fellows, or else reduced, by reason that their associates were destroyed & made away. For which cause the Cities of Picene erected a worthy Statue of brass of a Picene Pope, well deserving of their people, and of the House of Loreto. At which time, the sacred house of our B. Lady wanted not her ornaments. For the Pillars, which (instead of Columns) support the vauted roof, and the vault itself of the Church, was adorned with marble work, at the charge of Cantucius the Bishop. One of the bigger chapels was adorned by Cardinal Arigonio, 
The chapel of Cardinal Arigonio  with notable pictures, expressing the worthy deeds of S. Thomas of Aquine, in pariecting and guilding. And the greatest of all the chapels (desired by the Dukes of Tuscany and Bavaria) to take away contention was adorned by the Commonalty of Picene, 
The chapel of the Commonalty of Picene.  with curious works both of painting and plastering, and also garnished with much gold. This mean while Leonorius the Governor, using all diligence to adorn and augment the State of Loreto, by means of Lactantius Ventura a notable Architect, brought the forefront of the Church almost unto the top (a work for the most part finished by Gregory) and built good part of the Bishop's palace over against the Church. 
The gift of the Archduke of Austria.  Also Ferdinand Archduke of Austria, having understanding of the building of Loreto by the Duke of Bavaria, by his persuasion gave great store of timber out of his woods, to the B. Virgin of Loreto; which being put into a vessel, and sent by the Adriatic sea, by favour of our B. Lady, came safe to Loreto, among which was such abundance of huge beams and boards, as were thought to be well worth three thousand Crowns.   

Cardinal joyeuse recommendeth his Protection of France, to the B. Virgin of Loreto. CHAP. XI.  
ABOUT seven Months after Cantucius the first Bishop of Loreto entered into his Bishopric, 
Vict. Brigant.  he departed this life, leaving behind him great love of all towards him, specially of the poor, whose Father he was accounted. So great fame of sanctimony is related of him, that it may easily appear to be true, which is holden for a Proverb, that the first Bishop of every City must be a Saint. After Cantucius Rutilius Benzonius a Citizen of Rome (famous for learning and zeal of Ecclesiastical dignity) was elected Bishop of Loreto; 
Rutitius ●enzonius Bishop of Loreto.  who graced the house so notably with holy sermons, and worthy institutions, that now for sacred pomp and Majesty, she is inferior to none of the holiest Churches. About that time, Cardinal joyeuse the new Protector of France, coming out of France to Rome, and turning to Loreto with a train of Noble men, was brought to the most sacred House by Mattheucius Archbishop of Ragusa & Governor of Ancona, by Octanio Bandino Precedent of Picene, and by Rutilius Benzonius Bishop of Loreto, who went to meet the Cardinal, as he was coming thither. And when joyeuse had said Mass very devoutly in the sacred Cell of the B. Virgin, he said that he seriously determined, to recommend his Protection of France, to the most certain Patroness of mortal men. For which cause he procured the solemn prayer of the Forty Hours: whose godly endeavour the Bishop of Loreto did not only approve by his authority, but also with a worthy Sermon, After the Sermon, a solemn procession was performed with great zeal of all the people, aswell of the Clergy and townes-folkes of Loreto, as of a good company of Capuchins, which joyeuse had brought with him for that purpose. And the Cardinal yielding to none, in that whereof himself was the Author, was an example of piety and modesty, to his, and all the rest.   

The worthy endeavours of Cardinal Gallo Patron of Loreto, towards the B. Virgin. CHAP. XII.  
BUT this year was not so famous, as lamentable for the affairs of Loreto. 
Vict. Brigant.  Two days after the public prayer, Leonorius the Governor of Loreto, than the Cardinal Patron Vastau●●lano himself, died one after an other, of a pestiferous disease. 
Card. Gallo Patron of Loreto. Francis Gallo Governor of Loreto.  whereupon the Patronship of Loreto was given to Antonio Maria Gallo, the Cardinal, than Bishop of Perugia (now of Auximo) who preferred john Francis Gallo his Uncle, to the Government of Loreto. And shortly after by the Pope's commandment, Cardinal Gallo the new Patron coming to Loreto, and being received with great joy and gratulation of all sorts, set down Laws and Decrees to the City of Loreto, for creating of magistrates, they year of our Redemption 1587. Also this very year the brazen Statue of Xystus V the Pope, made most curiously by Bernardine, was set up on the stairs of the Church, with great gladness of the people of Loreto, and of all the Picentians; and also with great concourse of borderers and strangers And while john Francis Gallo was Governor of Loreto, 
The forefront of the Church of Loroto.  the forefront of the Church was at last finished, to be a most notable ornament to the sacred House of our B. Lady. For it was magnificently set forth and curiously ended, and all made of Istrian stone, exactly squared, (which being brought from Istria, doth seem like to that of Tybur, in old time, and also at this day much used by the Romans) and also finished with such art, that you would say so great a work, were almost all one stone. In the midst of this forefront, the great Gate (being as it were the mouth thereof) is adorned with striged Pillars of marble, and with an arched Coron. Also the sides have two lesser doors, with Pedestals and Pillars, called jonickes, on which the forefront itself doth stand. Over the great Gates, was set up a brazen Image of our B. Lady embracing her little son, polished most curiously by Lombardo the Statuary. Under the roof of the forefront a great window (being as it were the eye of the work) adorned with striged Pillars and works engraven, doth give light unto the Church. Over the window, the Title of the House of Loreto is engraven in Lucullan Marble with golden letters, THE HOUSE OF THE MOTHER OF GOD, WHERE THE WORD WAS MADE FLESH. Meaner windows were made to the lesser doors, to give light to the wing of the Church. And above both these windows, there is a particular inscription, engraven also with golden letters, in such kind of marble. The one is, XYSTUS' V THE POPE, A PICENTIAN, OF A COLLEGIATE, MADE THIS A CATHEDRAL CHURCH, ON THE XVI. OF THE CALENDS OF APRIL, THE YEAR OF OUR REDEMPTION M.D.LXXXVI.  
THE FIRST YEAR OF HIS POPEDOM The other, XYSTUS' V THE POPE BEING BORNE IN PICENE, AND ADORNING THE HOUSE OF LORETO WITH EPISCOPAL DIGNITY, MADE IT A CITY THE YEAR M.D.LXXXVI. THE FIRST YEAR OF HIS POPEDOM.  
The work was all finished, but that there wanted stairs to ascend into the Church. whereupon with great magnificence and compastle enough, Hierom Gabutio the successor of john Francis Gallo, did finish the new stairs, which he had begun with Istrian stone, & put an excellent lantern on the hemisphere of the Church, made also of the same stone, & of pillars of eight or nine foot of jonicke work. The spaces whereof have eight arched windows, above which are 8. more equal in breadth, but less in height. And over the said windows is a corone, which doth support the uppermost work, divided, as it were, into eight quarters, which together with ●●e hemisphere of the Church, being covered with sheets of lead, is seen far & near. And his own piety and devotion moving him thereunto, assoon as Card. Gallo had adorned the sacred House of Loreto, he provided to relieve the poor. For with a great sum of money which he collected, he made a Bank of piety at Loreto, whence he appointed that money should be lent to the town gratis, lest they should be enforced to be at the mercy of Usurers. But this was a most memorable gift of Xystus V the Pope (others attribute it to Gregory the xiii.) to procure the brazen leaves of the Church of Loreto, to be engraven for forty thousand Crowns. For the leaves of the three doors shall be of brass, where a representation of all the sacred History is to be engraven with admirable art: verily a great work, and of many years, and (as by the beginuing it may be conjectured) very notable and admirable, so indeed, as they who have seen both, may worthily compare them to the most excellent leaves of the Church of S. john Baptist at Florence which all do hold for a wonder. Truly it will be a worthy ornament to the Church of Loreto, & a most pleasing spectacle to Pilgrims.   

Donaries brought or sent to the B. Virgin of Loreto. CHAP. XIII.  
MEAN time, 
Cod. Laur.  the House of Loreto providing for the welfare of the poor Inhabitants, wanted not the gifts of Pilgrims. 
The gift of the Sodality of the Smiths of Bologna  The Sodality of the blacksmiths of Bologna, for their Donary, brought a great Candlestick of copper, very notable both for workmanship, and also for the unusual greatness and weight. Catherine Medici's Queen of France, and Mother of Kings, 
The gift of the Queen of France & of others.  sent to the B. Virgin of Loreto, a silver lamp, notable for weight and workmanship, with a pension to have it burn continually. The Duchess of Cleeve golden attire for the B. Virgin, embroidered with silver, and her own Image in a silver plate praying to our B. Lady of Loreto; but this later is an ordinary Donary of many. A daughter of the Duke of Parma two; Frederick Tomacellus, and Antony Spinellus Neapolitans; Alfonsus Vice-count a Milanese; the Marquis Carpucius, & the Bishop of Eugubine, every one his own Image, suppliantwise in a plate of silver, of four pound weight. Also at the same time the Marquis of Guasto presented his own Image in a golden globe, shining round about with little diamonds and Carbuncles. And that many of them were votive gifts, the title of the plate of Eugubine doth show, THY PRAYER IS HEARD. But these sent their own, others presented the votive Images of their friends. The Prince of Stiliano dedicated to the Mother of God a silver Image of his son, as if he were praying. Livia Pignatella a Neapolitan the Image of her husband offering to our B. Lady a little child purtured in silver, of four pound weight. The Prince of Amalpha an infant of silver in his swath-bands, in weight, half as much more. Philibertus Emanuel Duke of Savoy the worthiest gift in this kind, to wit, the golden Image of an infant of just stature, wrapped in his swath-bands, for a son borne of late wedlock, by the intercession of our B. Lady. The City Corneta, the portraiture of her City, in a plate of silver enclosed in Ebony, with a worthy title below, CORNETA THY FAITHFUL CITY. Also others presented goodly ornature for the Church & the Altar. William Duke of Mantua sent to the B. Virgin, two Candlesticks of silver, of a Cubit and a half, and a worthy Image of gold, on a golden Cross, representing the Crucifying of our Saviour, all made with admirable workmanship & art. Not long after, the Prince of Mantua, emulating his Father's piety, brought votive gifts for receiving of issue by the favour of our B. Lady, furniture of silver for the Altar, Priest, and Ministers sacrificing with solemnity, adorned with imbrodery, precious stones and gold. Ferdinand Cardona, a silver Chalice curiously wrought. john Spinota, Hippolytus Bensinotus, and Octavius Peregrinus a Neapolitan, besides every one his Chalice of silver, brought also two crewers with little ewers of the same substance. Peter Demetrius Prince of Valachia a golden Chalice and a Paten. And Auria Marquis of the Empire, for his singular devotion to the B. Virgin of Loreto, to his golden Chalice, added a triple lamp of silver, notable for weight and workmanship, which he endued with a certain stipend, that it might burn in the midst of the sacred Chapel, on chief festival days. Hear also hangeth an other silver lamp of excellent work, beautified with three divisions, said to be the votive gift of Marquis Lippeo of Milan. The Earl Olivarus (Ambassador for the Catholic King with the Pope) coming with his wife to Loreto, presented to our B. Lady for a gift, a silver lamp and ornature for the Altar and the Priest, glittering with gold and silver, of curious Portugal work; which Donaries he increased with a great sum of money. The Viceroy's wife of Naples a casket of silner guilt, and engraven with very curious work. Portia Vitelia a golden Image of Christ Crucified, enclosed in Ebony. The Cardinal of Austria, two Candlesticks of solid Ebony, adorned with precious stone & gold. Hierome Grimaldus of Genua as many Candlesticks of silver, a Cubit high, of xu-pound weight. And many silver lamps of no small weight and workmanship, were presented by such as were unwilling to have their names known. One of gold in steed of many, is the gift of Francis Maria Duke of Urbine, not only notable for substance and beauty; but also for workmanship. For the lamp itself is supported on the shoulders of three Angels, holding in their hands, boughs of an oak (the arms of the Roborean family) all made of solid gold with admirable art, thought to be about ten pound weight, & therefore chief place is assigned unto it, for the special worth thereof, hanging in a golden chain amidst the silver lamps, that it may always burn before the face of our B. Lady. Marquis Roboreo, Benedict Card. justinian, and Camilla Peretta sister to Xystus V gave every one a single suit of gold for the Altar, and Camilla also brought worthy attire for our B. Lady, wrought with gold and work embroidered. The Duchess of Bovine, an honourable Lady, sent other ornature of violet satin, adorned with margarites & pearls, after a Princely munificence, but for the shortness thereof. Also justus justeius Earl of Verona consecrated to our B. Lady (as author of the victory) an ornature of cloth of gold, faced with precious skins, being the prize of the Tilters, gotten at the games of Florence. Others also sent other Donaries to our B. Lady, the most part from women. The Duchess of Cleeve, a woman of great piety, presented to the B. Virgin for a gift, a chain of gold, notable for weight and workmanship; golden bracelets beset with Carbuncles and diamonds, and a gold ring of great worth by reason of a notable jewel. Vidobonus the knight and Steward of the Duke of Bavaria, in his own name and his wives, two gold rings joined in one, adorned with diamond and Carbuncle, wherein is written, WHICH GOD HATH JOINED, LET NOT MAN SEPARATE. Lewis George of Papia, a chain of gold made of curious work, of one pound weight. Marchius Antonius Blanchettus of Bologna, a Crownet of precious stones featly fastened in gold. The Princess of Castel-uetrano a round piece of gold, like unto a great coin, glittering with diamond, Emerald and pearl. But this following is not only memorable for value; but also for the order and manner how it was presented. Antony Martinengo the Earl, having contended many years with a daughter of Marquis Carata, about a Cross of precious stones of small quantity but of great value, and seeing no end thereof could be had by law, they agreed between themselves, that the Cross in controversy, should be adjudged to the B. Virgin of Loreto. And the event showed that their gift was grateful to the Mother of God. Hieronyma Columna Duchess of Monte-Leone had that Cross in her custody: And by a certain providence of Almighty God it chanced, that Martinengo coming to the sacred House of our B. Lady upon devotion, in the beginning of May, at the same time and on that very day, Hieronymas also came, altogether ignorant of the coming of Martinengo. Therefore seeing him on the sudden at Loreto, at first she was arnazed thereat; but then saluting each other, she said unto him: In very good time I have brought with me the Cross adindged to our B. Lady; for the solemn day of the invention of the Cross of Christ is now at hand. Wherefore admiring the wonder of the thing ordered from above, they went both together to the most sacred Cell, and dedicated this Cross of jewels to the B. Virgin, on the festival day of the holy Cross: that you may say, she required her depositum in due time. At this day, the said Cross doth hang at the girdle of rewells of the B. Virgin, as a chief grace of her worthy ornament: for it is made of nine fair diamonds beautified with three orient pearls, as big as cherries, valued at four thousand Crowns.   

An Irish Bishop doth twice escape the hands of Heretical Pirates: A young man is delivered from present shipwreck. CHAP. XIV.  
AT that time the House of Loreto as not only honoured with gifts but also miracles. For Edmund an Irishman, Bishop of Ardach, came to Loreto, to perform his double vow. The cause whereof was this. Being driven into banishment for religion, by Elizabeth Queen of England, he fled into Scotland with certain trusty servants. But where he sought secure, was his danger. For at the entreaty of the Queen of England, the Nobility of Scotland commanded that he should be cast into prison. But Edmund understanding of the matter, secretly shipped himself, and very prudently eschewed the snares of the Queen. Whereby escaping that manifest peril, soon after he fell into an other hidden danger, which was not casual, but by sufferance from above, as doubtless both the time of the danger, & the heavenly help sent them in due time did manifestly show. For as Edmund sailed towards France, he fell into the hands of one Drake an Archpirate of England, the day before the Nativity of our B. Lady, which the Bishop & his servants kept with great reverence and devotion. And a vision showed to one of his company in his sleep, put them all in good hope of security. For the night before they met their enemies, as he was asleep, one of his servants seemed to fight naked with heretics in a great assembly of men: and being ashamed of his nakedness, a Lady of great beauty came unto him in a white garment, whom he earnestly entreating to cover his nakedness, courteously and willingly she covered him with her cloak. When he related this vision unto the Bishop, with common consent they agreed, that the Virgin whom he saw in his sleep, was the Mother of God, by whose protection they should be all defended. whereupon assoon as the navy of the enemies approached, Edmund and his servants seeing no human means to escape, implored our B. Lady of Loreto, whose Native day put them all in good hope of safety, making this vow with their petition: If they eschewed the hands of their enemies, they would go to the House of Loreto, and there for the space of three days, would give themselves to prayer. Their prayer and vow had effect. For the Master of the ship, wherein they sailed, albeit in show an Heretic; yet at that instant showed himself a favourer of Catholics. For seeing the English navy at hand, and supposing (as it was) that the Catholics whom he transported, were sought, for their destruction, he hide the Bishop and his servants, in a most obscure place of the pump, and far out of sight. The ship was taken by the English, and brought in to England, & the servants of God lay close eight days in the pump, the Master secretly conveying them victuals once a day; all which time the English Pirates did not negligently search the vessel which they had taken. For every day with great rage, they searched every corner, hoping to find out the Bishop and his company, of whose flight and escape they had notice. So at last reviewing all places carefully with lights, they happened on the pump, and came to the secret place. But the more present that their danger was, the more evident was the help of the Mother of God. For apprehending the Priest, who had seen the aforesaid vision in his sleep, they drew him unto the next deck to seek out the rest, but even at that very instant they perceived, that Almighty God did protect the Catholics with heavenly help. For the Priest (of whom we speak) escaping out of their hands by miracle, was never after to be found. Therefore having searched eight whole days, till they were weary, at last they gave over to seek after the Bishop, and dismissed the ship, that she might return unto her course. But behold one danger after an other. In the same voyage to France, an other Navy of Pirates met them, more cruel than the former, who by the instigation of Queen Elizabeth, sought Edmund the Bishop for his destruction: and out of hand taking the ship wherein he sailed, they boarded her, overturned all the Merchandise, and with lights searched all places with diligent care: whereby they came to the secret place, & at last apprehended the Bishop himself. They had prevailed, if the present protection of our B. Lady had not quailed the rage of their enemies. For behold as they were about to draw forth their prisoner, they were stricken with sudden blindness, and began to wander like blind men. whereupon being frighted with the undoubted wrath of God punishing their wickedness, they let go the vessel which they had taken, and she holding on her course, by favour of our B. Lady arrived at the desired harbour, having twice in few days escaped these exceeding dangers. For which cause the Bishop and his retinue, being very mindful of their vow, forthwith from the place where they landed, came to Loreto on foot, the year 1586. where the Bishop rightly performing his vow, left the whole matter set down in writing in the House of Loreto, in token of the double help of our B. Lady in his double danger. The year ensuing, the B. Virgin of Loreto, by as great a miracle delivered another from the raging sea, as she had done these from the wicked Pirates. john Baptista Capra a Monte-Albodo (the name of a town in Picene) a good & a godly young man, sailing in a Galcot toward the coast of Calabria, and coming in sight of the Island Vulcana (which lieth over against the Island of Si●ilie) was brought into imminent danger, by a sudden tempest. For the oars were broken, the sail was lost, and the little vessel being tossed to & fro with the waves, was in great danger of drowning. But he conceiving good hope of safe deliverance, and invocating the B. Virgin of Loreto, cried unto her: As the Angels brought thy House into Picene, where at this present it remaineth; so thou B. Virgin Mother of God, bring this little vessel to the harbour. A marvelous thing. The tempest ceased as if it had been controulled or bridled by his prayer, and presently a prosperous wind beginning to blow, made the Galcot arrive with safety, that you may think the B. Virgin favoured her Client, and the report of the transportation of her sacred House, by the handworke of Angels.   

Two Priests having stolen a little mortar out of the House of Loreto, by their own harm, are taught to restore it thither again. CHAP. XV.  

Vict. Brigant.  THE report of the History of Loreto is confirmed by the former miracle, but the religion of the most sacred House is established with this. The same year, two Priests of Placentia took a little mortar out of the sacred walls, with intent to carry it about them, as a monument of the B. Virgin of Loreto, and as a defence unto them in the perils of this mortal life. But protection sought against the will of God, turned to their danger. For assoon as they returned into their Country, they were punished with a terrible & a cruel fever, wherewith being much vexed for the space of three months, at last they repent. And calling to mind the late example of the Bishop of Portugal, who albeit by the Pope's permission had taken a stone out of the House of Loreto; yet God was so offended therewith, that he was punished with a cruel sickness, and recovered not, until he restored the sacred stone to the B. Virgin. Therefore with common consent, both determined to restore to our B. Lady, that which they had taken from her, earnestly requesting her to pardon their folly, and to restore them their former health, when she received her own again. whereupon presently putting the mortar into a silk purse, and witnessing the miracle by their letters, they delivered it to the Pilgrims, which came to Loreto, and so recovered their health. And the mortar remaining in the silk purse (as it was) was brought to Loreto by the Pilgrims of Placentia to Rutilius Benzonius the Bishop, who assoon as he read their letter, gave credit to the miracle, and published it abroad; to repress the boldness of others by their example.   

Our B. Lady appearing to two, in the same form wherein she is reverenced at Loreto, restoreth them their health despaired of by Physicians. CHAP. XVI.  

Vict. Brigant.  ABOUT that time the B. Virgin did show by evident tokens, that her Image in the House of Loreto, was as dear unto her, as her native House it self- Tiberius' Delphinus a servant of the Duke of Mantua, being dear unto him many ways, & consuming with a grievous & a long ague, by vehmency of the sickness was upon departing. whereupon as the Priest was carefully recommending his soul (armed with christian mysteries) to the protection of God & his Saints, the House of Loreto ennobled with many famous miracles, came to the mind of him that lay a dying, which whiles he was in health, he could not visit by reason of business. And soon after a representation of the same House, and of the B. Virgin appearing unto him in his rest, stirred him to make a vow to the Mother of God, and to hope well of himself: which was to good effect. For he, who even now lay void of all sense, beginning to revive, and opening his eyes, spoke more cheerfully to them that were present, & told them how he had made a vow to visit the B. Virgin of Loreto, leaving them all dismayed at the wonder of the thing. Within few days he thoroughly recovered, and assoon as by any means health permitted him to perform the journey of his votive Pilgrimage, he went to Loreto before he had gotten sufficient strength, so fervent was his desire to be free from the vow which he had made. And assoon as he came thither, with hearty thanks to God & his B. Mother, he performed his vow, & nigh at hand beholding the most religious Image of our B. Lady with diligent care: Truly (said he) in this very likeness and similitude, I saw our B. Lady in my sleep when I was at the point of death: that it may plainly appear the Image at Loreto to be most like, or else most dear unto her. Soon after, this miracle was confirmed by an other of the same kind. john Raffrede a young man of Lasturo, a Village of the State of Venice, lay sick not far from Bergamo of an incurable disease: and the anguish of his infirmity, wherewith he was most miserably vexed, brought with it cruel, and almost perpetual pain in all his members. Therefore despairing of help by Physicians, he invocated the B. Virgin of Loreto, giving himself wholly unto her by vow: which if he obtained, he promised to perform with all speed. His vow had effect. Being given over by the Physicians, he did not so much wrestle with the disease, as with death itself. But suddenly in the very agony he had present help. For our B. Lady (as it were unlooked for) appearing unto him in the same shape, wherein she is reverenced at Loreto, which before that time he never saw so much as in picture, and bidding him be of good comfort, replenished him with great joy and comfort. whereupon out of hand for devotion sake, the sick man endeavoured to kneel down on his bed as well as he could, and with great confidence in this exceeding danger of death, began to implore the assistance of the Mother of God. And she, with a meek & a motherly countenance, said unto him: Son, put away fear, thou shalt not die of this sickness; be thankful & mindful of thy Vow. For which cause calling to his household, that they might hasten thither, to reverence the Queen of Heaven with due devotion, our B. Lady went suddenly out of his sight. And the promise was performed on both sides. For the sick man recovering a little after, came to Loreto to perform his vow, the 90. year of this age; where leisurely viewing the Image of the Mother of God, he affirmed to those, to whom he related this miracle, that the B. Virgin appeared unto him in his sleep, in that very form & attire: that you may think that shape and habit was pleasing to our B. Lady.   

A Knight of Flanders being delivered from his enemies by an evident miracle, dedicateth a wax-candle of huge bigness, to our B. Lady of Loreto. CHAP. XVII.  

Vict. Brig.  ABOUT the same time a Knight of Flanders presented to the B. Virgin of Loreto. For a gift, a votive candle of huge bigness, to wit of 300. pound weight, in token of a miracle almost incredible. The cause of his vow & gift was this. The said Knight (his name is not set down, for he himself would have it concealed) escaped manifest peril of life in Flanders by help of our B. Lady: who by commandment of the Prince of Parma going on improvidently with eight horsemen to view the coast, fell into the ambush of the enemy. The enemies were about eight hundred, some horsemen some footmen, who quickly spreading themselves abroad took from them all hope of escape. Notwithstanding the Fleming wanted not courage. For invocating our B. Lady of Loreto, and animating his fellows thereunto, they valiantly fought with them, their confidence in the B. Virgin prevailing so much with them, that it easily put away the cogitation of so great danger: Such was the courage and strength which was given to that small company, by the virtue of the heavenly help which they besought, not failing them in their fight. For when on every side they were assaulted with so many hands and weapons of sundry sorts, by the protection of the Mother of God, they sustained the violence of their enemies & the multitude of their weapons so long, till the Spanish forces came to rescue them, and then the danger turned on their enemies themselves, whereof many were slain or taken. And that there may be no doubt at all of the virtue of the heavenly help, neither the Knight himself, nor any of his fellows, nor yet any of their horses were hurt the least jot in so cruel a fight, which held for the space of two hours; that you may think they fought under the protection of God, who fight for them made them to overcome. In regard whereof the Knight desiring to have a perpetual monument of so worthy a miracle to remain at Loreto, sent the wax-candle of huge bigness, whereof I have spoken, with intent, that on certain festival days it should burn before the Majestical House of the B. Virgin. And it is said, that he also gave a certain stipend, that when the same was consumed, an other candle of like bigness should be put in his place, for everlasting memory to posterity.   

A deafe-man recovereth his hearing. CHAP. XVIII.  
THIS which I am to relate is not so marvelous, 
Annal. Laur. Rier. Vict. Brig.  but better witnessed. Erasmus Deane of the Cathedral Church of Cracovia in Polonia, being deaf in either ear, heard almost nothing at all, so that they must deal with him not so much by words as by signs. But before his hearing was taken from him, by report he had heard many admirable things of the B. Virgin of Loreto: and seeing he could get no help by means of physic, and that the heavenly virtue of the House of Loreto came often to his mind, much grieved and perplexed with the infirmity; it stirred him to come to the sacred House of our B. Lady, that with great confidence he might say Mass in the most Majestical Cell of the B. Virgin, and implore her help, where he found most present remedy for his grief. For assoon as he had ended Mass, he perceived that his left ear was opened and cured; and the next day saying Mass in the same place, he likewise recovered the use of his right: Whereby he, who came to the most sacred House half deaf, or rather deaf indeed, within two days departed thence full glad to have recovered the perfect use of hearing. 
Andrew Bentivoglio Governor of Loreto.  He himself told the whole matter with tears of joy to Rutilius Benzonius the Bishop, & to Andrew Bentivoglio Governor of Loreto, on the Nones of April, the year of our Redemption 1590. At which time the new City of Loreto being built with great speed on the enlarged space, was suddenly interrupted by the untimely death of Xystus, assayed also by other Popes to small purpose. For Monte-Regal was pared about and left half plained: the new Houses which were erected without the old circuit, be now instead of Suburbs, whereof many remain unfinished, that you may think, the renown of a City was not pleasing to our B. Lady of Loreto, who chose herself a seat in a desert place, lest the fame of the City, rather than the Religion of the place, should invite the Pilgrims to visit her. About that time, Andrew Bentivoglio departing this life, 
Fuluius Paulucius Governor of Loreto.  Fuluius Paulucius the Protonotary Apostolical succeeded in the Government of Loreto, whose virtue, troublesome times did both exercise and illustrate.   

Donaries brought or sent to the B. Virgin of Loreto, in the troublesome time of Gregory the XIIII. CHAP. XIX.  
SHORTLY after in the same year of our Redemption, to wit, 1590. in the month of September, Urban the seven. was created Pope, who was as memorable for the shortness of his Popedom as the love of all men towards him. Gregory the 14. a good and a godly man was chosen after Urban, but being weak and sickly most of his reign, he sat but twelve months. This time was most miserable and wicked, and no kind of mischief was wanting. For the Bandites which revolted in the later time of Xystus, ranged freely up and down in troops, much infesting the ways of the Pope's dominions with arms. Besides there was a penury with great dearth. Above all, a grievous mortality, the companion of extreme famine, spread almost over all Italy, among all degrees and ages. Neither was this year only, but also the next as fatal to Italy, wherewith the fields were almost deprived of husbandmen, the Cities of Citizens, and towns and villages of inhabitants, not so much with sickness, as (which is most miserable) with hunger and famine. Whereby there came fewer Pilgrims and Donaries to Loreto, then were wont, but more vows to visit and adorn the House of Loreto, as the years ensuing did well declare. Yet notwithstanding this very time, which wasted so many Cities of their Citizens, and towns and villages of their Inhabitants, did not wholly deprive the House of Loreto of gifts. 
The gift of Lelius Pignatellus and of others.  Lelius Pignatellus of Naples dedicated to the B. Virgin a silver lamp of two pound weight. Cardinal Sfondrato nephew to Gregory the 14. the Image of our B. Lady of Loreto, purtured in a plate of silver, of three pound weight. Hercules Sfondrato the Earl such an other silver Image of our B. Lady of ten pound weight, with a silver plate of like work, but of different weight, and two Crewets' of silver. Alfonsus' Coroneus a goblet of jewels of great price, which being turned of one entire hollowed gem, seemeth to be a kind of Achates, commonly called an Agate. Dionyse Delphinus a Venetian, worthy ornature of cloth of silver, for the Priest when he sacrificeth. N. Pernestaina sister to the Viceroy's wife of Boeme, a golden Pall, curiously and richly adorned with silver flowers, like unto stars, which made goodly ornature for the Bishop. This gift is most memorable, aswell for profit as bounty. Peter Tyrannus Calliensis, 
The inheritance of Peter Tyrannus.  a very rich and a wealthy man, by his will made the B. Virgin of Loreto the sole heir of his patrimony. The chiefest of his inheritance was Falconaria a rich Farm, which being very fruitful both for corn and wine, is situated most conveniently, to wit, not far from Ancona and the sea, that from thence the commodities and fruits may be conveyed to Loreto by boat. The whole inheritance, is thought to be worth about three score thousand Crowns, which must needs be a very great furtherance to supply all the necessities of the House of Loreto, either present or to come. And truly the great dearth and scarcity, which at that time afflicted Italy, exceedingly increased the huge expenses of the House of Loreto, and for the most part hindered the commodity of her Alms and donaries. For beside 800. Crowns, which the Treasury of Loreto payeth yearly to the Bishop, she disburseth six thousand Crowns to twelve Canons, to twelve mansionary Priests (as they call them) to six Clergy men, Coadjutors of the Quyre, to divers Quyristers, and many other Officers of the Church, besides provision of wax, oil, and other necessaries for the sacred House itself. Also it maintaineth all the company of the Governor of Loreto, a great family of Artificers, of husbandmen and shepherds: whereunto are added two Colleges, the one of the Society of jesus, the other of slavonians, which when the times were better, received almost fivethousand Crowns out of the reuenewe● of the House of Loreto. In the hospital and spittle, many Pilgrims both sick and poor are cherished; to religious men ad Priests, diet is given for three days: to other poor strangers, bread is publicly distributed. Bishops, Cardinals. and other principal men, are courteously and bountifully entertained; and the sumptuous and honourable building of our B. Lady, is never almost intermitted. Whereby these so great and huge yearly expenses are said to exceed twenty thousand crowns, which seeing the wealth of Loreto did with difficulty discharge in the abundance & plenty of things, at those times the expenses must needs be much increased. And the scarcity of victuals continued almost four years; all which time the revenues of the Land, and of the Treasury, were double or triple less than was wont; and yet the charges were almost doubled. Wherefore the inheritance of Calliensis did relieve the necessities of Loreto in very fit opportunity, but not more for the present, then for the time to come. Shortly after a small thing to be spoken of, did not a little illustrate the religion of the House of Loreto. Marcus Sara a famous Captain of the Bandites infesting the pope's dominions with arms, 
What respect Marcus Sara used to the most Sacred House  and coming into Picene with a great company of wicked confederates, was even overcome by the respect which all do commonly bear to the B. Virgin of Loreto. For passing by Loreto, and coming to a convenient place, he saluted our B. Lady with a joyful peal of shot of all his companies, and was so far from violating the treasures of Loreto, as that he reverenced the sacred House with gifts. Being kept our of the Church and the City itself, he sent a certain man to Loreto with a gift, that money might be liberally given to the Mother of God by them, who by violence and murder are accustomed to get it: God of his goodness mitigating such stony hearts in favour of his B. Mother. Meanwhile albeit there was great dearth and scarcity of corn, nevertheless Paulucius the Governor daily distributed great quantity of bread to the poor Pilgrims; a gift most grateful unto them, because the famine which they sustained was very great.   

The chiefest Indulgence of Clement the VIII. CHAP. XX.  
INNOCENTIUS the ix. sitting about two months, succeeded after the one years reign of Gregory the xiv. who having done many worthy things in the beginning of his reign, frustrated the notable hope of all good men, being quickly taken away by sudden death. After whom Clement the viii. succeeding, deserved worthy remembrance for his Fatherly providence and solicitude. For in the beginning of his Popedom with all diligence he lessened the dearth of corn, increased by the wickedness of men, and putting the thieves to flight, opened the ways which they had besieged, with great good of the pilgrimage of Loreto. Who by reason of his exceeding piety to the B. Virgin Mother of God, graced the House of Loreto with so worthy a gift of Indulgences, that now nothing may seem to be added thereunto. For knowing very well that many Pilgrims did resort to the sacred House of Loreto at all times of the year; and also considering that the Indulgences of former Popes were restrained to certain times, he thought it an indignity, that so many devout people overcoming great labours and perils of travel, even in the winter time, should departed from the B. Virgin of Loreto, without the benefit of Indulgences: specially being a known custom, that nothing is more used in the Pilgrimage of Loreto, then carefully to purify their souls by sacred Confession, and afterward to lead a new life. Therefore Clement the Pope thinking it for the best, and for the honour of our B. Lady to have none to departed sorrowful from her, most bountifuly granted remission of sins to all that rightly visited the Cell of the B. Virgin of Loreto at all times of the year: And also commanded that the day of the Transportation of the sacred House into Picene, should yearly be celebrated on the 4. of the Ideses of December. In the mean time, multitudes of strangers resorting thither from all places, the ancient grace and beauty of the Majesty of Loreto began to be renewed, not only by zeal of people's hearts, but also by votaries & gifts increasing in these difficult times. Cardinal Sfondrato Legate to Bologna, coming to Loreto and devoutly saluting the Mother of God, 
The gift of Card. Sfondrato and of others.  had a great desire to behold the Image of Loreto near at hand. whereupon setting to a ladder, and going up with great devouotion, after he had well viewed the proportion of the B. Virgin, he privately took of a ring of great worth (the ensign of his Cardinalty) and at his coming down dedicated it to our B. Lady, either as a pledge of his devotion towards her, or else as a token of her Patronage towards him. The ring is of gold, enriched with a precious diamond, estimated at five hundred Crowns. But this is the chiefest praise of Cardinal Sfondrato, who in the compass of two years visited the B. Virgin of Loreto three times, and reverenced her with three excellent gifts; such sweetness did his soul find in the most Majestical Cell of the B. Virgin. The same year returning from Bologna to Rome, and coming to Loreto to salute his Patroness, he would not show himself in her sight without a donary. For he dedicated to the B. Virgin a Cross of gold, adorned with beautiful Emeralds, said to be worth four thousand Crowns: which hangeth at the most rich chain of precious stones of our B. Lady, as a notable ornament thereof. The next year after, Cardinal Sfondrato going to Milan, revisited the B. Virgin of Loreto again, and for a gift gave her a gold ring with a rare diamond. The diamond is bigger than the nail of a man's hand, which being put on the finger of the sweet child JESUS, with the reflection of the lights, doth shine like unto a star, a gift so much the more to be esteemed, because it is well known that he bought it for that purpose, for two thousand Crowns. Antony Pallavicino of Cremona brought an other diamond in a gold ring, with peradventure the like mind, but not of like price, for it is worth but a hundred Crowns. Also the Cardinal of LORRAINE sent divers gifts of Princely munificence by certain men: A crystal Cross with the Image of Christ of gold, a golden Chalice standing on a foot of crystal, two Candlesticks and two Crewets' with their ewer, a Cup and a sprinkle for holy water, a Pix and a Pax, all of excellent crystal, gold, and amber, esteemed at two or three thousand Crowns. The heirs of Cardinal Caesius an Image most excellently wrought, representing the B. Virgin of Loreto, sitting on a House with many Angels attending round about her. The work itself is most notable, all woven with silk and gold, every way almost three Cubits broad: and the Images of the Mother of God and of the Angels, are made with so great are, as they seem to have life. Cardinal RUSTICUCIO, furniture of silver for the Altar and the Priest, beautified with an Image of the B. Virgin of Loreto, and the arms of his family. VICTORIUS LABDAMARUS LAUDENSIS Worthy ornature for the Altar, of siluer-cloth of tissue, garnished with great flowers. The Prince Venusinus other ornature for the Altar, of tissue-cloth of gold. jason Villanus a Citizen of Bologna, a Vestment for the Priest of tissue-cloth of gold; adorned with the arms of his family. Bernard Strozzio a Florentine, double furniture for the Altar, and as much for the Priest, glittering with gold and silver. Marquis Riano silver vestments for the Priest and Ministers celebrating with solemnity, set forth with silk flowers of equal distance; and ornature for the Bishop of the same stuff and work. Luke Turregianus of Florence furniture for the Altar and the Priest of cloth of silver, flourished with great golden flowers of curled work. Ferdinando Gonzaga an ornament of gold for the Altar embroidered and beset with pearl. Scipio Spinelli Duke of Seminario two standing pots of silver a Cubit long, wrought and engraven with rare art, and adorned with Images and acts of our B. Lady: whereof the one doth hold a great lily of silver, the other a golden bough of flourishing roses, placed on each side the feet of the B. Virgin. Marcus Germanus Baron of Valcassano, a Crownet of pearl and jewels, seeming like unto Roses, featly fastened in gold. john Baptista Cigola of Bressa, a silver plate with his own Image as if he were praying. Maximilian Archduke of Austria his own Image of the same fashion and substance, but of far greater beauty. The Duke of Terra-nova a Prelate praying to our B. Lady, engraven in a golden plate, and a Chalice and Paten of gold. The wife of Virginius Vrsinius of Nomentana the silver Image of a suppliant, about two pound weight. Luke Turregianus of Florence a silver Image of himself and his wife in manner of suppliants of no small weight. Finally others dedicated other Images purtured in plates of silver, of two and three pound weight, whereof this is the worthiest. Peter Lomellinus of Genua presented a silver infant of natural stature wrapped in his swath-bands, said to be about ten pound weight, which we may easily conjecture to be a votive gift. But these without doubt were votives. A man's head of gold of reasonable bigness & weight, from john jacob Grimano. A jaw with teeth of silver, adorned with two diamonds and three Carbuncles from Francis Deitristan, nearest to Clement the Pope in his Chamber. And many silver lamps were presented, notable for workmanship and weight, But one doth excel among them all. The gift of john Charles Imperialis of Genua, adorned, as it were, with three arms of Imagery, giving light in each thereof, being about thirty pound in weight. There is also an other worthy gift in another kind from Ferdinando Medici's Great Duke of Tuscany; to wit, a silver Galley two Cubits high, furnished & set forth with oars, and all manner of tackling, about 40. pound weight: which the words engraven in either side of the oar declare to be a votive gift.  
FERDINAND MEDICI'S GREAT DUKE OF TUSCANY, DEDICATED IT TO THE B. VIRGIN MOTHER OF GOD, FOR PRESERVING HIS GALLEYS FROM THE PLAGVE, THE YEAR M.D.XCIII.  
And the gift of Cardinal Mont-alto was notable for value and weight, who dedicated to the B. Virgin of Loreto, a silver Image of himself and his brother of great beauty, and of a hundred and fifty pound weight, with this devour inscription.  
ALEXANDER PERETTO CARD. MONTALTO VICECHANCELLOUR OF THE HOLY ROMAN CHURCH, THE NEPHEW OF XYSTUS V BEING MINDFUL AND GRATEFUL TO OUR B. LADY OF LORETO, FOR PRESERVING HIM AND MICHAEL HIS BROTHER, GAVE IT FOR DEVOTION SAKE, THE YEAR M.D.XCIV.  
The work is said to have stood in more than two thousand Crowns.   

The gifts of Noble women. CHAP. XXI.  

The gift of the viceroys wife of Boemia & of other Noble women.  AT that time the liberality of noble women was very notable. Polixena Pernestaina the Viceroy's wife of Boemia, presented to the B. Virgin of Loreto for a gift, the head of S. Geryon, Captain of the Thebeans, enclosed in a worthy case, which being parcel guilt and curiously wrought, from the breast representeth S. Geryon in armour. The armour itself is adorned with gold & silver, and on the Martyr's head doth stand a Crown of precious stones, under which a base of Ebony & silver showeth the relics of the Thebean Martyrs enclosed in crystal: which Polixena sent as a votive gift to our B. Lady, for restoring of health unto her husband. The Princess of Vastalla dedicated to the B. Virgin two golden Images, the one of herself, the other of her husband, with two hearts of gold, the whole of six pound weight. Mary Boadilia, a Galley in a plate of silver, with a high Image of our B. Lady of Loreto. The Princess of Castro-uetrano a Cross of gold, little truly for quantity, but notable for substance, for it is adorned with six diamonds, set in gold. The Duchess of Nivers presented by her husband two silver Candlesticks of costly work, of eight pound weight. Hieronyma Spinula ornature for the Altar of violet damask, wrought with gold, & two Crewets' of silver with their ewer curiously & richly engraven. Violanta Farnesia two silver Candle sticks of good work. Salustia Crescentia a Roman, silver attire for the B. Virgin flourished with golden stars. The Princess of Bisinia, a golden Dragon beautified with jewels, valued at 700. Crowns. justina Vice-Count ornature of needlework, of gold, silver, and silk, flourished with admirable and new work. For the work itself being laid on no ground nor direction, is wrought with the needle, with continued & intermingled threads of gold, silver, & silk of divers colours, void spaces left between, commonly called A point in the air. A work of secret skill, and almost of infinite labour. For the ornature whereof we speak, being made for the Altar, and also of the said work, containeth the xv. Mysteries of the Rosary of our B. Lady, very curiously expressed within square spaces; whereof every other is adorned with great flowers, as it were of Checker-worke, and that these void spaces might not be unfilled, all the ornature is stitched with twisted silver: which truly (if we believe the report) was not only the gift of Vicecount, a most worthy Matron, but also her own work; which may very well be, considering that there are many gifts of other noble women, which themselves did also work, specially veils for Chalices, & attire for our B. Lady. Isabella Cosen-German to the Duke of Savoy, and wife of the Lord Silvester N. sent a worthy gift, wrought (as they say) with her own hands, to wit, ornature for the Altar, Priest and Ministers, celebrating with solemnity, made of silk and gold, with new and admirable work. jacoba Duchess of Cleeve sister to the Marquis of Saltzthurg a chain of gold, adorned with a hanging globe of carbuncle & diamond.   

The coming, and gift of Christine wife to the Great Duke of Tuscany. CHAP. XXII.  
THE coming of Christine wife to the Great Duke of Tuscany, was very memorable, for many tokens of piety and munificence: who setting forth towards Loreto with a most Princely train, brought with her great gifts: and not forgetting Christian modesty and holy S. Francis, put on a plain garment of ash-colour, & laid aside gold and jewels, that in such simple attire, she might delight the eyes of the heavenly Queen, whom she knew always to love poverty. And the example of the devout Lady, prevailed so much with her maids, matrons, servants, and the guard of her person, that all that did accompany her in this pilgrimage did imitate her modesty and attire. Neither did Clement the Pope fail to forward her worthy piety. For as she passed through the towns of the Pope's Dominions, which way soever she went, entertainment was given her after a Princely sort, when not only the plainness of her attire was held for a wonder, but also her exceeding piety for an example, specially after she approached near to Loreto. For assoon as she came out of Recanaty, and beheld the Church of Loreto a far of, forth with she made haste out of the horslitter wherein she road, fell down on her knees, and in the very way saluted the B. Virgin, none of her train refusing to do that work of piety, which their Lady performed. Going thence afoot to Loreto with certain Bishops, and the rest of her retinue, she went strait to the House of our B. Lady, and contemning cushions and all other Princely furniture, kneeled down very devoutly in the Porch of the most sacred House. But the Bishops & Card. Gallo himself earnestly persuading her to come into the sacred Cell of the Mother of God, she answered, that it did not beseem her to pass that most Majestical threshold, and to present herself before the most holy Virgin, until she had cleansed her sins by sacred Confession. Neither could their entreaties make her to alter her determination; such singular devotion did her devout soul show, towards the B. Virgin of Loreto: Wherefore at last having rightly purified her soul, and received the heavenly banquet, she entered into the most sacred Cell, the fervour of her piety (as it happeneth) much increasing by delay: For this mean while having a more fervent desire to see and reverence our B. Lady, she kneeled down very reverently, and spent many hours devoutly in prayer: which she did not once only, but three days together for so long she remained at Loreto. All which time she was so conversant in the Church, and attentive to divine prayer, that you would have thought, she had dwelled in the Church. Like magnificence corresponded to these tokens of piety. For at her departure, she sent children into the Church with gifts of Princely munificence: Among which were ornaments for the Altar, Priest & Ministers, celebrating with solemnity curled three manner of ways with gold & silver, of admirable workmanship and art: Linen for the Altar of most excellent stuff, & work: For it is wrought allover with excellent pictures of the Prophets, Sibyls, Apostles and Evangelists, curiously inserted among boughs & flowers with such admirable needlework, that I dare affirm, scarce any thing in this kind, ever to have been more curious, more precious, more admirable. For it well appeareth by her own hand-writing, that the price amounted to eight thousand Crowns. Notable veils for holy Chalices, and other such like, were also presented with her other gifts.   

The testimony and gift of a Spanish Priest, honoured with a miracle. CHAP. XXIII.  
ABOUT that time, Alfonsus Sancius a Spanish Priest both learned and godly, having lately returned from the East, and the islands of China called the Philippines, came to visit the House of Loreto. And before he departed thence, I myself found him admiring the religion of the place, and familiarly ask the cause of his wonder, he answered me with admiration. O good God what manner of thing is this! Truly I never felt the like unto this; nor never found God more present in all my life; so doth a certain heavenly sweetness flow into my soul, in this most sacred House. He also recounted unto me, how he had been at Vadalupe, Monte-Seratto, and other notable Houses of the B. Virgin in Spain, but never felt the grace of God so present; for there seemeth to be the bark, but here indeed the marrow itself. And obtaining of the Governor of Loreto by means of Cardinal Caietan, in whose company he came, to remain all night in the holier part of the sacred Cell, he passed the same in watching and prayer, and afterward reported to his familiar friends, that in all his life he never spent a more pleasant and more blessed night. In regard whereof he desired to grace the most Majestical Cell of the B. Virgin with some gift of his: and having brought with him (even from China itself) a white damask vestment, with this he determined to beautify the Nicet of the B. Virgin Mother of God, and the Image of Christ Crucified, which came with the sacred house. A tailor therefore was sent for, who spreading abroad and measuring the damask, first denied that there was stuff enough for both those purposes. But Sancius urging him to measure it again with more diligent care, he stayed a while; and when he had often turned it to and fro, he began to affirm, that at last he had found a means to effect that which he desired, but so, that those ornaments would be something shorter, than was fitting. Go to therefore, said Sancius, and follow this course, if any thing, be wanting, our B. Lady herself will supply it. He obeyed, and lest there might be any suspicion of error, he had the old ornature of the Nicet at hand, according to which he determined to make the form of the new, and so cut it out, Sancius himself looking on, and took it with him to his shop. But the next day assoon as it was light, the tailor came unto him crying out like one dismayed: Without doubt our B. Lady hath wrought a miracle in her ornament. For the new furniture of her Nicet, which yesterday was too short, is now longer by a handful. Sancius followed the man into his shop, to believe his own eyes and not his words, and found that he reported no untruth, neither could he devise any thing to hinder it from a miracle. For he saw that the veil of the Crucifix (which he caused to be made) was just and nothing at all diminished: and the damask was made of a certain strange work, that the deceit of adding such as ours is, could not deceive one skilful in such things: albeit in such things, no fear is to be had of adding, but rather of diminishing. Sancius himself, with many others, stood by the tailor when he measured, and cut out the vestment, that it may be evident no error was committed by improvidence: wherefore by him and others it was holden for a Miracle: but we will leave the thing indifferent.   

Bracelets which were offered to the B. Virgin, do fasten themselves on the hands of Christ her little Child. CHAP. XXIV.  
BUT this is not so marvelous for the gift itself, as for the event thereof. Beatrice Gazea a Matron of great delicacy and riches, was married to a most worthy Citizen of Rome; who for devotion coming to Loreto in the month of May, the 93. year of this age, forthwith went into the inward part of the sacred Cell, where the most religious Image of the B. Virgin of Loreto, holding the sweet child JESUS in her lap, is scene and reverenced near at hand; which is adorned with a most precious garment, and decked in magnificent sort. Praying there with fervour to Christ and his B. Mother, Gazea had a great desire to behold the countenance and ornature of the B. Virgin with more attention: And blaming the imperfection of her sight, requested the keeper (who at that time was Papyrius N.) to show her the Image of the Mother of God, more exquisitely with the light of a torch. He willingly condescended unto it. For with a burning torch, he showed her the B. Virgin, and at her entreaty told also who gave all the donaries that were about her. Among the rest, there was a frontlet of orient pearl of good bigness and beauty, dedicated to the B. Virgin by a Matron of Rome, who being given to many delights and pleasures, lately departed this life, albeit of a cruel kind of death, yet very Christianlike and godly. Beatrice hearing this woman named, and knowing her familiarly, forthwith burst into admiration. Behold the cause, why she by the grace of the B. Virgin, had so godly an end of her delicate life! Then turning to the keeper: And I (said she) would willingly dedicate these bracelets (than the which I esteem nothing more) to Christ and his B. Mother, if I thought that the gift of a wicked woman, would not be ungrateful unto them. The keeper animated the woman seeming too fearful, saying that Christ was the Saviour, and Marie the Patroness of the wicked. whereupon in continent she pulled of her bracelets made of antic work, of jewels and gold, and gave them to the keeper to be offered to jesus and his B. mother. And presently the Keeper took a little fork prepared for such uses, and put thereon both the bracelets, to direct them to the most sacred Statue, intending to hang them on the erected singers of the right hand of the sweet child Christ jesus, for at that present there was no fit a place. But as he was drawing back the stick, he observed that one of the bracelets remained on the fork, and that the other having passed the singers of the sweet child jesus, was fastened on his hand, so fitly, that fit it could not be. A marvelous thing. Though the Keeper saw it, yet he thought it might be done by chance. But afterward putting the stick thither again nothing moved out of his place. To hang there also the other bracelet, there happened another undoubted miracle. For by little and little drawing the fork towards him, thinking that the gift remained on the same hand of Christ, on which he left it, suddenly he saw the bracelett removed from the right to the left hand (the golden globe which he held in that hand, laid down in the B. Virgin's lap) and the said bracelet fastened thereon so fitly and so elegantly, that by setting of ladders, with leisure and of purpose, it could not be done more aptly & seemly. Whereupon the Keeper being suddenly strooken with a certain sacred dread at the admiration of the thing, said to the woman: And Christ himself doth show, that thy gift is very grateful unto him; for he hath put both thy bracelets on his own hands, whiles I was doing another thing. Wherewith the woman (heavenly grace assisting her) sighed; and whether for the riot of her former life, or else for the late token of the divine benevolence, in her sighing powered forth such abundance of tears, that the sighs and sobs of her weeping, were heard of them that prayed in the other part of the sacred Chamber. Which moving divers of the company, they came strait to the holier part of the sacred Chamber, to see the woman overcome with tears & devotion, and the Keeper himself admiring the wonder of so great a thing: Who afterward with many others told me this very thing as it happened, which seemed wonderful to all that considered the order and event thereof; and was much spoken of both by word and writing of many. Also at this day the sweet Child JESUS doth wear the said bracelets on his hands, for a monument of the Miracle.   

Two are delivered from danger of death. CHAP. XXV.  
BUT to many, peradventure, this may rather seem a wonder than a miracle, but it is an evident miracle. The same year Bartholomew Meliorinus, no mean Citizen of Genua, being at Placemia, from altercation (as it happeneth) fell to blows. He was alone. The contention began in the House of a Merchant of Florence, with the master of the House himself. whereupon the household running at the first noise thereof, laid hands on their weapons to help their Master. In the fray Meliorinus received a grievous wound in the shoulder; and to make it more grieous, the dagger being thrust in with great force, broke in the midst. At the entreaty of others the quarrel was ended. Meliorinus was carried home dangerously wounded. Forthwith Surgeons are sent for, who wiping the wound looked on it, and found that the dagger being thrust deep into the bone stuck so fast, that it could not otherwise be gotten out, then by lancing & making the wound greater, that they might have means to come unto the broken weapon. When they had cut the flesh four ways about the wound in manner of a Cross, they assayed to pull out the piece of the dagger with pinchers. When that prevailed not, they invented a new and a painful remedy to bring it forth, by beating of his breast on the contrary side, which did much increase the most bitter pain of the wound itself. After the dagger was both beaten and drawn with the pinchers, & moved nothing at all, they constantly pronounced that he could not live, unless God took mercy on him. whereupon news of his death coming to Genua, his friends lamented him as dead. But he thinking to add divine to human help, implored the aid of the B. Virgin of Loreto. A wonderful thing to be spoken & seen. The dagger moved so easily out of the place to follow the pinchers, that you may plainly perceive it came not out so much by the endeavour of man, as the goodness of God. And the sick man obtaining his vow, and recovering of that wound, came to Loreto this very year 1594. even as we were committing these things to writing; and giving manifold thanks to the B. Virgin, left with her the piece of the dagger, in token of so great a benefit. About the same time john Baptista judex, a young man of the same City, noble for descent and wealth, came to Loreto in performance of a Vow. Who being at Venice the year before, and falling into a grievous and troublesome ague, was so cruelly afflicted therewith, that it brought him to the last cast, and being forsaken by the Physicians, he had no hope at all of recovering his health. But being very much devoted to the B. Virgin of Loreto, he confidently implored the help of his patroness in this extremity. His trust deceived him not. For though the Physicians despaired of the sick-man's amendment, and thought verily that he could not live; yet being called unto him again by his household, to feel his pulse, they were presently put in so good comfort by signs of health, that they conceived great hope of his recovery, and delivered the like to the sick-man and his friends. Their hope deceived them not. Because from that time, he began to be better every hour, and almost every moment, until the ague quite forsook him, that in few days he thoroughly recovered, and the year after came to Loreto to perform his vow, where as I was committing these things to writing, he himself told me the whole matter, as I have related it.   

A notorious wicked man was miraculously debarred from coming into the most sacred Cell, before he had made his Confession. CHAP. XXVI.  
ALSO at this very time Almighty God showed by new miracles, what care he hath of the sanctity of the House of Loreto. A certain Pilgrim came to Loreto loaden with all kind of wickedness, and exceedingly given to an ungodly & a desperate life. Before whom, as he presumed to pass the threshold of this most sacred Cell, in the very entrance was presented a certain ghost of horrible shape, which deterred the desperate bold wretch, and drove him back again with exceeding fear. whereupon being touched with remorse for his sins, he went unto the Priest to purge his soul. But to remember the sins of so many years, much time was requisite, and great feeling of repentance. For he came to Confession nothing prepared, nor thinking thereof. Wherefore the Priest persuaded him, to retire himself into the most sacred Chapel, to implore the help of God and his B. Mother, to look diligently into his former life, and then to come to Confession better prepared. When the Priest had dismissed him, he went about that which he was commanded, but wicked custom did prolong true penance, and sorrow of his shame, rather than of his sins, did molest and trouble his mind. For which cause the said ghost, appearing unto him, as he went back to the sacred Chamber of the B. Virgin, forbade him entrance again: which made him exceeding sorrowful, to be twice kept out of the most majestical Cell and sight of the Mother of God, as a most wicked and defiled fellow. Whereby true grief and sorrow for offending God was given unto him, assoon as he was truly compunct for the loathsomeness of his wicked and filthy life. Wherefore after diligent examination of his conscience, he returned unto the Priest with weeping eyes to wash away his sins aswell with tears, as by Confession: and at last having rightly purified his soul, he went to the Majestical Cell of the B. Virgin, shamefastly and fearfully. A wonder to be spoken. The entrance which was shut unto his impudence, was opened to his shamefastness.   

A certain man intending to commit murder in the House of Loreto, by miracle is changed to the contrary. CHAP. XXVII.  
ABOUT the same time there happened an other not unlike to this. An honest and a rich Citizen of Ascolo, having a son, the seventh month of his new marriage, committed him to a Nurse to be brought up; and because he was his only child, and borne before the time, he did often visit him with great solicitude and care. But it chanced that sudden death took away the weak child without the Nurses fault. Who well knowing what danger she was likely to incur by the father of the Child, a man of fierce disposition, forthwith fled secretly to Loreto, putting great confidence in the Mother of God. Her hope deceived her not. For when he saw his only child dead, he was so enraged with grief and wrath, that he began to blaspheme God and his Saints, and to seek the Nurses death. But when she appeared not, he turned his wrath on her husband, whom he left for dead, having given him many dangerous wounds. Neither did his fury, being once imbrued in blood, stay itself here. For knowing of the Nurses flight, forthwith he took his weapons, made haste to Loreto, and rushed into the Church, with intent to kill the Nurse, even in the most sacred Cell itself, before the B. Virgin's face. When he had searched every corner of the Church in vain, he came to the Cell of the Mother of God, where a little before, the Nurse having washed away the blemishes of her soul, very devoutly implored the assistance of our B. Lady, hiding herself under her protection and shadow. But this cogitation came into the mind of this furious man, wholly bend to do murder. If that he entered into the sacred Chapel, without doubt his heart would be so mollified therewith, that he should think no more of revenge. Therefore turning an other way, he began to seek all the corners of the Church. But behold as he went to and fro like one distracted, unawares he passed by the Altar famous for the title of the Annunciation of our B. Lady, which is without the most sacred Chapel under the window whereat Gabriel the Archangel is said to have entered. And by chance seeing the lights through the window (whereof many burn continually before the B. Virgin) he was so moved with the present religion of the place, that he fell down on his knees. A marvelous thing to be said. The fierce and hardened man was presently so mollified that he changed his mind to the contrary, went unto one of the Priests, laid aside his weapon, fell down at his feet, & told him how he desired to turn a journey which he had undertaken for the destruction of others to his own salvation. And in this the protection of the Mother of God was very apparent, that he went unto the same Priest, to whom the nurse had gone a little before. Whereby the Priest having sufficient notice of the whole success of the matter, as soon as he had heard the Confession of the Citizen of Ascolo, easily persuaded him, being now well pacified, to pardon the innocent woman, and made him faithfully to promise, and to show, that in good sooth he was friends with her. His deeds were more bountiful than his words. For assoon as the woman returned home, he preferred her to govern his household, and her husband (whom he charitably cured) over his husbandry: whereby the danger turned to their good, by the help of the Mother of God. About the same time it was determined to remove the Sclavonian College to Rome, that the students might more diligently be instructed in good discipline. Wherefore by commandment of Pope Clement the eight, the Collegialls being called to Rome, and put into the Roman Seminary, in their part do maintain the right and title of the Sclavonian College. This remoovall happened the year 1594. which is the last of our History, that it may comprehend the full three hundred years of the House of Loreto. And these we have chosen among many, and almost innumerable things, to commit to writing, being content to admonish the Reader, that the abundance of the matter and miracles of Loreto is so great, that so many and so great can be related by none, but many more and greater may remain to be rehearsed.   

The Celebrity and Majesty of the House of Loreto. CHAP. XXVIII.  
TRVELY I think I may do a thing worth my labour, to conclude this History of Loreto with a short rehearsal of the incredibile Celebrity and Majesty of the House of Loreto itself. There passeth no time of the year, no month, no day, in which the Cell of the most B. Virgin is not reverenced of many strangers. This commendation of piety, is not proper to the Picentians & Italians, but common to the Transalpines, & them that dwell beyond the seas, specially to slavonians, French and Flemings. Neither do Spaniards, Portugals, Polonians, or Germans fail therein. Notwithstanding two times of the year are of special respect, for the confluence and celebrity of all people and nations, the Spring, and the Autumn; whereof to the one, the sacred Conception of God, to the other, the Birth of the B. Virgin Mother of God, do give beginning to the solemnity. And each doth continue three months; all which time the House of Loreto is almost daily honoured with great concourse of people. For there is no City, no Town, no Village, nor no Street of the Territory of Picene, which doth not yearly in troops and multitudes, visit the B. Virgin of Loreto. Whose example doth invite the borderers thereabout, to wit, of Abruzzo, Vmbria, Flaminia, Aemilia, and the rest of Italy to deserve the like praise of piety. Their manner of coming, for the most part, is thus. The Sodalities go before, every one both beautified & distinguished with their special Ensigns and Banners: Whereof divers (besides the Image of Christ Crucified) do carry before them the Image of the Mother of God, and of other Saints excellently represented. The moderators of these Sodalities, and the Priests, with the music of each company, be the last of the assembly. Then follow their Donaries, silver Crownets, Chalices, Candles beset with money, rich clothing, silver Images of Cities & towns & votive tables betokening the divine benefits, which they have obtained by the intercession of our B. Lady. Many times men like unto Angels, and sometimes also like to the Prophets and Sibyls, prophesying of the B. Virgin, are graciously placed among them, with other persons singular for the presentation of their attire. And last of all the disordered and confused multitude of the people, doth many times follow this solemnity. In the way, they sing solemn praise to God, to his B. Mother, and to the Saints by turns; and when they pass by any City, they excite the Inhabitants thereof, to the religion and reverence of the B. Virgin of Loreto, by the virtuous example of their piety. But assoon as they behold the House of Loreto (which is seen a far of being seated on a hill) forthwith all prostrate their bodies, and with flowing tears of joy, salute the Mother of God. Then ordering themselves and going in disposed Companies, they sing Lytanies and Hymns. Neither are they without some, who speedily put of their clothes, to put on sackcloth prepared for that purpose, & follow their fellows disciplining their naked backs. The Priests of Loreto go in surplices to the gate of the Town, to meet these Sodalities of the Pilgrims, & bring them into the Church with ringing of bells, and Music. When they come to the Porch of the sacred House, with prostrate bodies all the Pilgrims salute the B. Virgin, with so great fervour and compunction of heart, that they who are present, are so mollified with their devotion, that they are compelled to weep for company. But assoon as they come into the sacred Cell of the Mother of God shining with torches and lamps, and begin to behold & view the Image of our B. Lady, it is incredible to say, what plaints, what sighs, what tears, are every where heard. You would easily believe, that Almighty God himself were present among them. Further, many are replenished with such heavenly dread & unwonted joy & do so adhere to those sacred walls, that they can scarce be pulled and drawn for thence. And whiles with great devotion they behold the Altar of the Apostles, the sacred Armoury, the door mured up, & the chimney, whiles the B. Virgin, doing any thing in these places, doth occur to the minds of them that do meditate, they would make no end of beholding, nor no end of kissing those sacred things, if the fervour of many coveting to do the same, did not hinder them. This in effect is the manner of the bordering people. But the Pilgrims of foreign Nations, come thither in great troops, some on foot, some on horseback, or else in Coaches, most of them remarkable in the habit and signs of Pilgrims: Yet notwithstanding their different habit, the reverence which they use to the House of Loreto, is the self same to them all. This is almost common to all, to be fed at the heavenvly Table, after the expiation of their sins: whereof many do enrich the Altar of the B. Virgin with money & precious Donaries. Howbeit the worthiest gifts are usually delivered to the Keepers of the sacred Chapel, that they may be recorded in the books of Loreto, that memory, both of them, & of the givers may be known to posterity. The Altar of the Apostles, but specially the Image of the Mother of God, is always magnificently adorned with jewels & other gifts according to the variety of the time. And the sacred Chapel itself doth always shine with white wax-candles, & many silver lamps; and for the most part soundeth continually with Music & instruments. And (which is chief of all) doth always abound with the present grace of Almighty God, which floweth into the hearts of the Pilgrims, that come to visit it: In such sort truly, as it replenisheth the goldy with a certain unwonted joy, the wicked with horror, to the sick it giveth remedy, comfort to the sorrowful, spirit to theslow, aid to the distressed, health to the forlorn. But the greatest concourse to the Chapel of Loreto is about Easter, Whitsuntide, & the Nativity of the B. Virgin. For besides others innumerable, which come to Loreto, about Easter on foot, on horseback, or in Coaches, out of Lombardy, Venice, and Dalmatia, many come in great multitudes to Ancona by shipping, whence (for the most part) all go afoot to the sacred House of Loreto. And the day after Easter (in which is read the Gospel of the Pilgrims going to Emmaus) most of them attire themselves in the habit of Pilgrims, & after the Benediction of their Prelates, begin to set forward by the direction of their Priests, the Keepers of Innocency: of which Pilgrims there is such a multitude, as they may happily exceed twelve thousand: who receive an incredible concourse of people from the adjoining Villages, Towns, and Cities, and oftentimes many and great companies of harvest folks and mowers. But specially the Nativity of our B. Lady is illustrated with far greater multitude of strangers; almost all Picene (to say nothing of other Countries) resorting to Loreto. For it is well known, that in those two days, above two hundred thousand people came of late to the House of Loreto: & therefore necessity doth enforce the keepers of the most sacred Chapel, at that time to compass the inward part thereof on the outside with rails, that they may easily admit, or exclude whom they will, and keep of the multitude. Likewise at all times of the year, Bands of soldiers and Troops of Horsemen going to the war, come to Loreto, and when they have received the holy Mysteries, they honour the B. Virgin with sporting-shewes in warlike fashion. And this incredible confluence of strangers hath made the ways which go to Loreto to be most frequented with Inns, the opportunity whereof (joined to the commodity of the ways themselves) yieldeth no difficult Pilgrimage to footmen, howbeit delicate and feeble. Moreover the said ways are so much frequented, that divers troops of Pilgrims do every where meet: which is so great an instigation to piety, and ease of travel, that Marcus Antonius Columna himself (to say nothing of others) a man famous for riches and warlike affairs, was able to perform his votive Pilgrimage to Loreto on foot. And in very deed when at length they come thither, & behold & see the Mother of God, all receive so great comfort of heavenly joy (Alm. God replenishing their godly hearts therewith) that they confess they have received a very great reward, though their Pilgrimage were difficult & painful unto them. What should I here relate how many make vows to the B. Virgin? How many perform them? How many come out of the sink of wickedness? How many free their souls from the unexplicable snares of incestuous delectations? How many forget old enmities, and long continued hatreds? How many despairing of salvation, & making league with Hell, are pulled out of the jaws of Hell itself? For by how much the souls are worthier than the bodies; by so much, more and greater miracles of the B. Virgin of Loreto are manifestly seen, in curing the souls rather than the bodies of men. But because it is the endeavour of man, to explicate by words, these & other things which we have recounted, seeming to measure the manifold favours of Alim. God (which do very specially appear at his beloved Loreto) by human imbecility; therefore I think it fit to yield to the burden, than to go about to say more of those things, which I should but impair and lessen by my discourse. But this I dare boldly affirm, that the Celebrity & Majesty of Loreto is so great, as they, who have not seen it with their eyes, can not conceive it in their minds: so that, if hereafter you confer that which you have heard, with these things which we have rehearsed, you shall find the fame to be much less, than the thing itself. So much by her incredible Majesty and dignity, doth one Loreto on earth, not only surpass all credit, but even very fame itself, which is wont to declare & explicate all things to the uttermost.  
To the greater glory of God, and of our B. Lady of Loreto.    

A TABLE OF THE PARTICULAR CHAPTERS CONTAINED IN THIS History of LORETO.  

In the first Book.  
1 THe House of our B. Lady is reverenced with great honour in Galiley. Chap. I.  
2 Having lost that reverence, it is miraculously transported into Dalmatia. Chap. II.  
3 By revelation of our B. Lady her House is known, and honoured with a Miracle. Chap. III.  
4 The miracle is diligently sought out by certain men sent into Galiley. Chap. FOUR  
5 It departeth out of Selavony, with great lamentation of the Dalmatians. Chap. V.  
6 Being brought into Picene, it is seated in a wood of Recanati. Chap. VI  
7 It is removed out of the wood unto the Hill of the two Brothers. Chap. VII.  
8 It forsaketh the Hill of the two Brothers by reason of their discord. Chap. VIII.  
9 The impressions of the places where the sacred House hath stood. Chap. IX.  
10 The chief place and the admirable situation of the House of Loreto. Chap. X.  
11 By manifestation of the Dalmatians, the Picentians know it. Chap. XI.  
12 An Eremite provoketh the Picentians to in choir diligently of the matter. Chap. XII.  
13 The miracle is sought out by certain men sent into Galiley. Chap. XIII.  
14 The Picentians choose our B. Lady for their Patroness. Chap. XIIII.  
15 Heavenly signs make the sacred House more illustrious and more known. Chap. XV.  
16 The walls adjoined to the sacred House for a support, give back a certain distance. Chap. XVI.  
17 Heavenly lights make the day of the B. Virgin's Nativity, more solemnized in her native House. Chap. XVII.  
18 The Citizens of Recanati invirone the sacred House within a Church. Chap. XVIII.  
19 The sacred House is adorned with Indulgences by Pope Benedict the xii. Chap. XIX.  
20 The State of the House of Loreto, whiles the Popes sat at Avignon in France. Chap. XX.  
21 The continuance of Schism was no small hindrance to the ornaments of the House of Loreto. Cha. XXI  
22 Pope Martin the V adorneth the sacred House with Indulgences and Fairs. Chap. XXII.  
23 The wealth of the Church of Loreto whiles Eugenius the FOUR was Pope. Chap. XXIII.  
24 The House of Loreto is graced with Indulgences by Pope Nicolas the V Chap. XXIIII.  
25 Pope Callistus the third fortifying the sacred House against the Turks, putteth the Barbarians to flight, much frighted with a great overthrow. Chap. XXV.  
26 By restoring of health to Pope Pius the second it began to be far more famous & illustrious. Chap. XXVI.  
27 The Bishop of Recanati doth enrich it with worthy possessions. Chap. XXVII.  
28 The sum of the History of Loreto is set up in the Church by Tereman the Governor. Cha. XXVIII.   

In the second Book.  
1 POpe Paul the second being cured of the plague, goeth about to beautify the sacred House of Loreto with a new Church, and to adorn it with his decrees. Chap. I.  
2 james a Franciscan is delivered from an incurable disease, & from the assault of Devils. Chap. II.  
3 The ancient Decrees are graced with new, by Pope Xystus the iv Chap. III.  
4 A great Army of Turk's ready to spoil the wealth of Loreto, is put to flight by miracle. Chap. FOUR  
5 Pope Innocentius the VIII. doth reverence it with gifts, and doth also commit it to the Government of the Carmelites. Chap. V.  
6 The testimony of Baptista Mantuanus of the said House of Loreto. Chap. VI  
7 A Noble woman of France being possessed with seven Devils is delivered. Chap. VII.  
8 The gift of the City of Recanati for her deliverance from the plague. Chap. VIII.  
9 The Decrees of Pope julius the second his works in the new Church; and the gifts of Noble men. Chap. IX.  
10 A Noble woman of France is cured of the palsy. Chap. X.  
11 Pope julius the second finisheth and fortifieth the Church of Loreto. Chap. XI.  
12 Pope julius being defended from a great shot, doth beautify the House of Loreto with gifts. Cha. XII.  
13 A girl of seven years of age is brought to Loreto, by the B, Virgin herself. Chap. XIII.  
14 near unto the Porch of the Church of Loreto the Pope's Palace is begun by julius the second. Chap. XIIII.  
15 The Queens of Naples visit the House of Loreto. Chap. XV.  
16 Pope Leo the X. doth adorn it with most worthy Decrees. Chap. XVI.  
17 The sacred House is adorned with Princely ornaments and Donaries. Chap. XVII.  
18 A Dalmatian Priest cometh to Loreto, carrying up his bowels with his hand. Chap. XVIII.  
19 divers assaults of the Turks are repulsed by Miracle. Chap. XIX.  
20 It deceiveth the avarice of the Christian army. Chap. XXI.  
21 It is walled about by Pope Leo the X. Also the notable work of the carving is forwarded, Chap. XXI.  
22 Pope Clement the VII. doth beautify the sacred House with Decrees and other things. Chap. XXII.  
23 The Architect presuming to dig through the sacred walls, is strooken senseless, Chap. XXIII.  
24 Pope Clement being protected by the help of the B. Virgin of Loreto, doth adorn her with special care. Chap. XXIV.  
25 Loreto is made more healthful by cutting down the woods. Chap. XXV.  
26 Pope Clement sendeth three of his Chamber into Dalmatia and Galiley, to inquire of the removal of the sacred House. Chap. XXVI.  
27 Three Noblemen are delivered from danger of death. Cha. XXVII.  
28 The testimony of Friar Leander of the House of Loreto. Chap. XXVIII.  
29 The House of Loreto is enriched & honoured with many gifts. Chap. XXIX.   

In the third Book.  
1 POpe Paul the third adorneth the sacred House with benefits & Decrees, Chap. I.  
2 Loreto is committed to the Protection of the people of Recanati. Chap. II.  
3 A Fraternity of Children is instituted to sing solemn praise to the B. Virgin of Loreto. Chap. III.  
4 The new Hospital and the Spittle are opened in favour of the Pilgrims, Chap. FOUR  
5 The Relics of the House of Loreto propagate her Religion. Chap. V.  
6 The description of the carued-worke wherewith the sacred House is environed. Chap. VI  
7 The Thole of the Church beginning to cleave is strengthened. Chap. VII.  
8 The House of Loreto is enriched with new gifts. Chap. VIII.  
9 The Captain of a Band of Horsemen, is delivered from manifest danger of a River. Chap. IX.  
10 Pope Paul the third doth twice visit the sacred House of Loreto. Chap. X.  
11 The House of Loreto is adorned with Chapels & heavenly signs. Chap. XI.  
12 Pope julius the third suiteth a College of the Society of JESUS at Loreto. Chap. XII.  
13 The wonder of the heavenly flames is renewed at Loreto. Chap. XIII.  
14 Heavenly flames are seen in the Church itself. Chap. XIIII.  
15 Two Capuchins are delivered from the raging sea, Chap. XV.  
16 A young man is saved from the whirlpooles of a River. Chap. XVI.  
17 A young maid of Loreto is delivered out of a well: A Citizen of Caieta out of prison. Chap. XVII.  
18 A Bassa of the Turks is cured by the B. Virgin of Loreto, and doth honour her with gifts. Chap. XVIII.  
19 The House of Loreto is enriched with the gifts of Noble men. Chap. XIX.  
20 By Revelation of our B. Lady of Loreto, Marcellus Ceruinus the Cardinal doth know that he shall be Pope. Chap. XX.  
21 The Religion of the sacred House is increased by enlarging the jesuits College. Chap. XXI.  
22 The House of Loreto is enriched with gifts. Chap. XXII.  
23 The French Army doth honour the sacred House, whereby many of those soldiers are reduced to the way of salvation. Chap. XXIII.  
24 The City of Vtina preserved from the plague. Chap. XXIIII.  
25 Sight is restored to two that were blind. Chap. XXV.  
26 A Pilot of Genua is delivered twice from shipwreck. Chap. XXVI.  
27 An innocent young man is delivered out of prison: Also an other twice hanged is preserved from death. Chap. XXVII.  
28 A woman of Sicily having her throat cut, is cured. Chap. XXVIII.  
29 A Genueses doubting of the House of Loreto, is punished, and repenteth. Chap. XXIX.  
30 The violatours of the sacred House are punished by Miracle. Chap. XXX.  
31 The robbers of the sacred Cell are apprehended by Miracle, and put to death. Chap. XXXI.  
32 Two young men are delivered from the servitude of the Devil. Chap. XXXII.  
33 A young man whom the Devil had brought into bondage, is delivered & freed thereof. Cha. XXXIII.   

In the fourth Book.  
1 THe care of Pius IV. and of the Cardinal of Urbine, in adorning the House of Loreto. Chap. I.  
2 The care of the Picentians, & the Protection of the B. Virgin towards her own House. Cha. II.  
3 The Bishop of Conymbria being taught by his own harm, restoreth a stone, which he procured to be taken out of the sacred House. Chap. III.  
4 The same stone is brought back again to Loreto, and reverenced with great preparation and concourse of people. Chap. FOUR  
5 Many are delivered from manifest danger. Chap. V.  
6 A Mariner losing his ship is saved by the help of our B. Lady of Loreto. Chap. VI  
7 Two men are delivered from lightning: Two barren women are made fruitful. Chap. VII.  
8 Many despairing of their recovery, are cured by Miracle. Chap. VIII.  
9 Two possessed persons are delivered from the tormenting Devils. Chap. IX.  
10 Sight is restored to two blinde-men. Chap. X.  
11 The B. Virgin of Loreto doth cure two that were dumb, and doth also restore unto one of them his tongue, when it was cut out. Chap. XI.  
12 A jew is delivered out of prison, and baptised at Loreto. Chap. XII.  
13 The chiefest gifts brought or sent to Loreto whiles Pius the FOUR was Pope. Chap. XIII.  
14 The testimony of Pius V of the House of Loreto. Chap. XIIII.  
15 The Hospitality and alms of the House of Loreto. Chap. XV.  
16 The gifts of Pope Pius V and of other Princes. Chap. XVI.  
17 Some are delivered from the inundation of a River; others from a great tempest of the Sea and from Pirates. Chap. XVII.  
18 Many are delivered from the servitude of the Turks. Chap. XVIII.  
19 One hanged on the gallows is delivered. Chap. XX.  
20 Two are preserved from capital punishment. Chap. XX.  
21 The help of the B. Virgin of Loreto in the Victory gotten of the Turks by sea. Chap. XXI.  
22 Pope Gregory the XIII. adorneth the sacred House with Indulgences and ways. Chap. XXII.  
23 The celebrity of Loreto in the year of jubiley. Chap. XXIII.  
24 The piety of Don john de Austria in visiting the House of Loreto. Chap. XXIIII.  
25 The piety and munificence of joane de Austria the Great Duchess of Tuscany. Chap. XXV.  
26 The Duchess of Lorraine is cured of the palsy at Loreto. Chap. XXVI.  
27 Two thrown from their horses are delivered from death. Chap. XXVII.  
28 A certain man receiving twelve deadly wounds is cured. Chap. XXVIII.  
29 The Mother and the daughter are delivered from death, others from other diseases. Chap. XXIX.  
30 Three Cities are delivered from the plague. Chap XXX.   

In the fift Book.  
1 THe gifts of the Cardinal of Urbine and of other Princes. Chap. I.  
2 The celebrity of the Church of Loreto is increased. Chap. II.  
3 A College of slavonians is instituted at Loreto. Chap. III.  
4 The munificence of Duke joyeuse and of the King of France. Chap. FOUR  
5 Other gifts of the Nobility of France. Chap. V.  
6 The Donaries of the Duke of Bavaria, and of other Princes of Germany. Chap. VI  
7 The gifts of the Princes of Italy. Chap. VII.  
8 The Violatours of the sacred House are punished from heaven. Chap. VIII.  
9 A Ship of Epidaurus is delivered out of the hands of Pirates. Chap. IX.  
10 Loreto is graced with the title of a City, and with a Bishops Sea. Chap. X.  
11 Cardinal joyeuse recommendeth his protection of France, to the B. Virgin. Chap. XI.  
12 The worthy endeavours of Card. Gallus towards the B. Virgin of Loreto. Chap. XII.  
13 Donaries brought or sent to Loreto whiles Xystus V was Pope. Chap. XIII.  
14 An Irish Bishop doth twice escape the hands of Heretics. Chap. XIIII.  
15 Two Priests are enforced to send back the mortar of the sacred House. Chap. XV.  
16 Our B. Lady appeareth to two in the same form in which she is reverenced at Loreto. Chap. XVI.  
17 A Knight of Flanders is delivered from his enemies by a worthy Miracle. Chap. XVII.  
18 A deaf-man recovereth his hearing. Chap. XVIII.  
19 Gifts brought or sent to the B. Virgin, Gregory the XIIII. being Pope. Chap. XIX.  
20 The Indulgences of Pope Clement the VIII. and the gifts of Noble men. Chap. XX.  
21 The Donaries of Noble women. Chap. XXI.  
22 The gifts of Christine the Great Duchess of Tuscany. Chap. XXII.  
23 The gift of a Spanish Priest is honoured with a Miracle. Chap. XXIII.  
24 Bracelets offered to the B. Virgin of Loreto, do fasten themselves on the hands of Christ her little Child. Chap. XXIIII.  
25 Two are delivered from danger of death. Chap. XXV.  
26 Anotorious wicked man is miraculously debarred from coming into the most Sacred House. Chap. XXVI.  
27 A certain man is preserved from committing of murder. Chap. XXVII.  
28 The Celebrity and Majesty of the House of Loreto. Chap. XXVIII.    

AN OTHER TABLE OR INDEX OF THE WORTHIEST THINGS, THAT HAVE BEEN BESTOWED upon our B. Lady, and her sacred House of LORETO.  

The Donaries and Benefits of Popes.  
OF Clement the seven.  
Of Clement the viii.  
Of Gregory the xiii.  
Of innocentius the viii.  
Of julius the second.  
Of Leo the x.  
Of Martin the v.  
Of Paul the second.  
Of Paul the third.  
Of Pius the second.  
Of Pius the fourth.  
Of Pius Quintus.  
Of Xystus the fourth.  
Of Xystus Quintus.   

The Donaries of Cities & Towns.  
Of Puy a City of France.  
Of Arezzo.  
Of Ascolo.  
Of Bologna.  
Of Camerino.  
Of Corneta.  
Of Fabriano.  
Of Firmo.  
Of Lions.  
Of Macerata.  
Of Milan.  
Of Monte-Santo.  
Of Palermo.  
Of Pisaurus.  
Of Recanati.  
Of Spello.  
Of Vico-Varone.  
Of Viterbo.  
Of Vtina.   

The Donaries of Cardinals and Bishops.  
Of Cardinal Ab-Altemps.  
Of Card. Alexandrino.  
Of Card Arigonio.  
Of the Card. of Augusta.  
Of the Card. of Austria.  
Of Card. Casio.  
Of the Card. of Carpa.  
Of Card. Columna.  
Of Card. Cusano.  
Of the Card. of Est.  
Of Card. Caietan.  
Of the Card. of Lorraine.  
Of Card. Madruzzo.  
Of the Card. of Mantua.  
Of Card. Medici's.  
Of Card. Momino.  
Of Card. Mont-alto.  
Of Card. Paceco.  
Of Card. Palmerio.  
Of Card. Perusino.  
Of Card. Riario.  
Of Card. Rusticucio.  
Of the Card. of S. George.  
Of the Card. of S. Praxedes.  
Of the Card. of the four Crowned Martyrs.  
Of Card Ssondrato.  
Of Card. Tranensis.  
Of the Card. of Trent.  
Of Card. Vinerio.  
Of the Card. of Urbine.  
Of the Archbishop of Altouico.  
Of the Bishop of Cortona.  
Of the Bishop of Eugubino.  
Of the Bishop of Recanati.   

The Donaries of Princes & Noble men.  
Of the Archduke of Austria.  
Of Ascanius Columna.  
Of Amadeus a noble man of Savoy.  
Of the Baron of Valcassano.  
Of a Bassa of the Tuakes.  
Of the Earl justus.  
Of the Earl Martinengo.  
Of the Earl Olivario.  
Of the Earl Rangono.  
Of the Earl Sfondrato.  
Of the Duke of Atria.  
Of the Duke of Bavaria.  
Of the Duke of Albania.  
Of the Duke of Ferrara.  
Of Duke joyeuse.  
Of the Duke of Gravine.  
Of the Duke of d'Oumale.  
Of the Duke of Mantua.  
Of the Duke of Milan.  
Of the Duke of Espernon.  
Of the Duke of Maestricht  
Of the Duke of Terranova.  
Of the Duke of Savoy.  
Of the Duke of Sermoneta.  
Of the Duke of Seminario.  
Of the Duke of Urbine.  
Of Don john de Austria.  
Of Laurence Medici's.  
Of the great Prior of Malta.  
Of the great Duke of Tuscany.  
Of the Marquis of Aquaviua.  
Of the Marquis of Bitonta.  
Of the Marquis Capursio.  
Of the Marquis of the Empire.  
Of the Marquis of Mantua.  
Of Marquis Lippeo.  
Of Marquis Riano.  
Of Marquis Roboreo.  
Of the Marquis of Tripaldo.  
Of the Marquis of Guasto.  
Of Nicolas Frangipane.  
Of the Prince of Bisinia.  
Of the Prince Stiliano.  
Of the Prince of Mantua.  
Of the Prince of Transiluania.  
Of the Prince of Venusino.  
Of the Viceroy of Naples.  
Of the King of France.   

The Donaries of Noble Women and Gentlewomen.  
Of Camilla Peretta.  
Of Clelia Farnesia.  
Of Constantia Caretta.  
Of Constantia Leiva.  
Of the Countess of Briatico.  
Of the Countess of Palena.  
Of the Countess of Populo.  
Of the Duchess of Amalpha.  
Of the Duchess of Brunswick.  
Of the Duchess of Cleeve.  
Of the Duchess of Lorraine.  
Of the Duchess of Mantua.  
Of the Duchess Mont-alto.  
Of the Duchess of Nivers.  
Of the Great Duchess of Tuscany.  
Of the Duchess of Parma.  
Of Hieronyma Spinula.  
Of Isabella of Savoy.  
Of Livia Pignatella.  
Of the marquess of Est.  
Of the marquess of Mantuae  
Of the marquess of the Holy Cross.  
Of the marquess of Guasto.  
Of Margaret of Austria.  
Of Marie Boadilia.  
Of the Princess of Bisinia.  
Of the Princess of Castel-uetrano.  
Of the Princess of Sulmo.  
Of the Princess of Vastalla.  
Of Portia Vitelliae.  
Of Portia Cesia.  
Of the viceroys wise of Boeme.  
Of the viceroys wife of Naples.  
Of the viceroys wife of Abruzzo.  
Of the Queen of France.  
Of the Queen of Hungary.  
Of Salustia Crescentia.  
Of Violanta Farnesia.   

The Donaries of Gentlemen & other Worthymen.  
Of Alsonso Coroneo.  
Of Alsonso Vicecounte.  
Of Antony Perotto.  
Of Antony Lieva.  
Of Antony Pallavicino  
Of Antony Pignatello.  
Of Antony Spinelli.  
Of Augustine Aurea.  
Of Bassanus of Mantua.  
Of Bernardine Strozzio.  
Of Bernardine Sanquinio.  
Of Dionise Delphino.  
Of Vedebono the Knight.  
Of a Knight of Flanders.  
Of Faederick Tomacello.  
Of Ferdinando Gonzaga.  
Of Francis Deitristan.  
Of Francis Caietan.  
Of George Monacho.  
Of Hercules Maria Ssorza.  
Of Hierome Grimaldo.  
Of john Villano.  
Of john Piccolhomini.  
Of john Baptista Carafsa.  
Of john Baptista Duara.  
Of john Charles Imperialis.  
Of john Francis Bossio.  
Of john jacob Grimano.  
Of julius Monaldo.  
Of Lelius Pignatellus.  
Of Leonard Vinerio.  
Of Luke Turregiano.  
Of Lewis George.  
Of Lewis Gisilardo.  
Of Lewis Martinengo.  
Of Marquius Antonius Blanchettus.  
Of Oliver Fagnano.  
Of Pardo Pappacodo.  
Of Peter Lomellino.  
Of Pompilius of Bologna.  
Of Pyrrhus Gonzaga.  
Of Sfortio Pallavicino  
Of Victor Labdamaro.  
Of Vincent Alfano.  
Of Virginio Vrsino of Nomentana.   

Indulgences of divers Popes granted to the House of Loreto.  
Of Benedict the xii.  
Of Urban the vi.  
Of Boniface the ix.  
Of Martin the v.  
Of Nicolas the v.  
Of Paul the second.  
Of Xystus the fourth.  
Of julius the second.  
Of Gregory the xiii.  
Of Clement the viii.   

The Patrons of Loreto.  
Cardinal Roboreo.  
Card. Bibiana.  
The Prior of Capua.  
Card. Contareno.  
The Card. of Carpa.  
The Card. of Urbine.  
Card. Morono.  
Card. Vastavillano.  
Card. Gallo.   

Cities and Towns delivered from the plague.  
Pny.  
Lions.  
Palermo.  
Recanati.  
Vtina.   

The testimony of divers Popes of the House of Loreto.  
Of Paul the second.  
Of Xystus the fourth.  
Of julius the second.  
Of Leo the X.  
Of Clement the seven.  
Of Paul the iij.  
Of Pius Quintus.   
FINIS.