THE MEMORABLE, AND TRAGICAL HISTORY, OF THE PERSECUTION IN AFRICA: under GENSERICKE and HUNRICKE, Arrian Kings of the Vandals.  
WRITTEN IN LATIN BY the blessed Bishop VICTOR of Utica, who personally (as also S. AUGUSTINE the famous Doctor) endured his part thereof.  
WITH A BRIEF ACCOMPLISHMENT of the same History, out of best Authors: together with the life and acts of the holy Bishop Fulgentius, and his conflicts with the same Nation.  Nothing new under the Sun. Eccles. 1. The Spirit and the Spouse say, come, and who heareth let him say, come. Apoc. 22. 
Printed with Licence. 1605.   

In the margin P. S. importeth the edition of Paris by Sonnius.  
In the margin P. F. importeth the edition of Paris by Fremy. ANNO. 1569.  
In the margin B. importeth the edition of Basil. ANNO. 1541.   

TO THE VIRTUOUS, AND DEVOUTLY AFFECTED, HIS DEAR MOTHER: PERSEVErance in the paths of Godliness.  
THERE want not (Dear Mother) who with their new gifts, will impart to you the hopes of an happy year: weary I no less than yourself, of novelties, present you rather with a jewel of no less antiquity, than price: which long hath unworthily lain hid, when most of all stood the virtue thereof in request. Stale it is not, neither doth the age thereof diminish the estimation, but enhance it: quality of writers and Authors being now at that pass, that by proportion of antiquity their value cometh to be rated. No otherwise then as in precious stones and gold is commonly accustomed, the first whereof the more families they have enriched and beautified, less are held in suspect; the later, how much farther years it pretendeth in the stamp, fairer currence it commonly findeth in the exchange, countenance being derived from the continuance. Marvel not if to you a woman, I translate a Divine; to one nothing curious in controversies, send a Father of the primitive Church. No Author this above your reach; no high discourse of difficile questions: but being deliverer of a plain history, fuller of excellent examples, and pithy motions to perfection, then of subtle points or intricate matters; I judged nothing more worthy on which you might employ your vacant hours, or I my time and travail. Great plenty of things deserving mature consideration herein you have: peruse them, use them, print them in your mind; and what you admire in others, apply to yourself.  
R. Y. S. M. L. A. D.   

THE PREFACE OF THE TRANSLATOR.  
BY that which I found in myself, when I happened to read this tragical history, and by well peysing the substance of this Author, it was not hard for me to perceive, that if he spoke English, he might work marvels in souls. To instruct the understanding, to move the will, to illuminate the heart, to enkindle the mind, to remove the mists of ignorance from men's wits, to inflame the right believing soul unto zeal, I saw matter more than sufficient. Let me deserve the blazon of a liar, if reading this discourse, the attentive and impartial umpeere admire not, to see how like evermore thorns are to thorns; and grapes unto grapes; wheat unto wheat; & chaff unto chaff; sheep unto sheep; both children of darkness & of light to their forefathers. If therein the weak in faith find not assurance of God's assistance; the tempted, discreet means of resistance; the sound consolation incredible; the corrupted their souls touched to the quick. If herein be not many notable singularities of Historical antiquity, and so many passages of points Ecclesiastical, that the faith and face of the universal Church of Christ, at those days may most lively thereby be described; the belief, rites, ordinances, and government thereof: even at those days, when the three famous and chiefest Doctors, Hierome, Ambrose, and Augustine, had immediately before together flourished. Argument and form of the persecution, was no other, than this which followeth. After the Vandals had as an uncatar acted torrent, or merciless inundation, overrun France and Spain, they passed into Africa, wrested the same from the Roman Empire, there established the seat of their Kingdom, and jealous of their new conquered Dominion, deemed nothing more secure than as the Mediterrane Sea did by vast and boisterous waters sever them from the Empire: so by dissonant & irreconcilable opinions, to divide the people's hearts from all society with the same, to alienate them from the communion in belief with Greece & Italy. Whereunto, when the Arrian heresy (which had already infected the Vandals, and in Africa had long since canker-wise crept into many hearts) seemed most proper; Gensericke their King by terror of laws gave countenance to the same, & enterprised the utter extirpation of the faith. Not in deed urging in express terms to deny Christ our Lord to be equal to his Father, or to confess any point of arianism against their conscience (for it had been too palpable abomination even to the simplest senses) but only importuning for conformity sake, to suffer themselves to be sprinkled with water of the Arrians hands, under certain form of words different from the Catholic manner, and at leastwise to forsake the accustomed sacrifice of the Church, and resort to their pretended prayers. For recusancy of which sacrilegious impieties, such things endured the Godly of those times, as have scant been heard of: whose calamities make the subject of this book. But no wisdom is there against the will of the highest, nor counsel against his determination, nor preucntion against his providence, nor machination against his might; who first by horrible famine and mortality eased for a season the yoke of his afflicted, and finally after fourscore and ten years, subduing the Vandals by the hand of the valorous Belisarius, reunited the Province both to the Roman Empire and communion of the true faith: Full is the history Ecclesiastical; full are Eusebius, Sozomen, and Theodoret, of the persecutions raised by jews and Infidels, against the smoothly delivered as might be required: the law of a Translator abridging my liberty. For had I not in this case chosen rather to be seen Religious insister, then ●ond licentiate Paraphrast, more could I have beautified and graced my labour, to the Reader perhaps, but not to myself, who hold precise truth to be the very beauty as of history, so of translation. Neither becometh it me to excuse the harshness of the African names, which Pliny advertiseth scarcely able to be committed to letters. In the edition of Basil, two books of the three are by chapters divided, but so unfittingly to the context of the matter, that a dim judgement may apparently discern, that neither Victor, nor yet any man of learning was deviser of such disorderly order, and confused distinction. The whole have I digested into chapters also, but in a more proper and convenient sort: as combination of the several matters best disposed. At places of mark, or else of special difficulty, by the Author's words inserted in the margin, shall the judicious reader be unpreiudiced of his own sense. The care of whose commodity might have further extended my preamble to so important an Author; but that little said sooner findeth pardon, then doth prolixity.  
(* ⁎ *)   

THE FIRST BOOK.  

CHAPTER. I. The horrible cruelty of the Vandals, upon their first arrival in Africa.  
THE sixtith year (as is 
An Chris●● 427.  apparent) hath now his course, since the cruel and savage Nation of Vandals set foot into the bounds of Africa, crossing over with easy passage at the strait, where between Spain and Africa, this great and large Sea presseth itself into the narrow distance of twelve miles. Their whole power then passing over, by policy of 
⸬ all. 〈◊〉. 〈◊〉 & Agate. Trizeric  Gensericke the Captain, it was forthwith (for greater terror of their name) ordered, that the whole multitude should be numbered, as many as their mother's womb had until then brought forth, amounting old and young, servants and masters, to fourscore thousand. Which number being doubtfully published, is even at this day thought to be so great of men of arms, whereas the number of such is now but small and weak. Finding therefore a peaceable and quiet Province, their wicked troops did on all coasts set upon the flourishingst part of the land: who wasted, destroyed, and with fire and sword consumed every thing, not sparing so much as the shrubs and bushes which bore any fruit, lest those, whom peradventure dens in the mountains, steep cliffs of the earth, or other bard places did hide in secret, might (being fled away) sustain themselves with such forage. Thus while with cruelty they raged, no place remained free from their vexation. In Churches especially and 
⸬ Basilicis Sanctorum  Temples of the Saints, in Churchyards and Monasteries more villainous was their fury, & with greater flames they burnt down houses of prayer, than they did Cities and Towns. Where by hap they found the gates of God's honourable Palace shut, with strokes of their 
⸬ Dext●um, 〈◊〉 may als● Gauntlet Psal. 73  Maces they forcibly made entry: so that it might rightly at that time be said. As if they had been in a wood of trees, so hewed they down with axes the gates thereof: in the axe and hatchet they threw it down. Thy Sanctuary in earth they burned with fire; they contaminated the Tabernacle of thy name. How many excellent Bishops, and 
⸬ Nobi● sacerdote  noble Priests were by divers kinds of pains made away, being tortured to deliver up what gold or silver soever they had, either of their own, or appertaining to the Church. And that all which was extant might through constraint of pain be uttered, they urged the offerers afresh with torments, pretending part only, not the whole to have been delivered. The more also that any man rendered, more they thought he reserved. Mouths of some they opened with poles and bars, thrusting in stinking mire and dirt to extort confession of money. Some they tormented with wresting their foreheads & legs with sinews, 
⸬ Rem●entib●uis.  until they twanged with stretching. To very many (as if they had been pitched or rozend vessels) they unmercifully powered in at their mouths sea-water, vinegar, dregs of oil, grease, with many other matters of torment. Neither weakness of sex, nor respect of gentry, nor reverence of Priesthood mitigated their fierce minds. Nay, there did their fury most abound, where appeared any dignity or worthiness. How many Priests, and how many notable personages they charged with mighty loads, as if they had been Cammelles, or other beasts of burden, able I am not to declare: nor yet those whom with gads of iron they hastened forward: some of which pitifully under burdens yielded their ghost. Aged gravity, and reverend grey hairs, adorning the head like wool, found no privilege of mercy: guiltless infancy felt their barbarous rage, which dashed them against the ground, violently pulling the little ones from their mother's breasts: others wide stretching their tender legs, tore them asunder from the fundament. Captive Zion might then sing in her gates. The 
●udith. 16.  enemy hath resolved to fire my territories, to slay my infants, and that he will dash my babes against the ground. In some edifices of the greater buildings and houses, where fire could less serve their malice, demolishing the roofs & walls, they left their beauty equal to the earth. So that now the ancient stateliness of the Cities, which was in time past, no more is to be seen, then if it had never been: yea most Towns have few or no inhabitants. For even at this day what so may be found remaining, 
⸬ B. desolabantur. P. S. P. F. desolantur.  are eftsoons laid waist & desolate: as they utterly have in Carthage ruinated the Theatres, the Temple Memory, with the passage surnamed 
⸬ An Idol of the Africans, of which mention, Tert. Prosp. Am.  Celestis. And to speak of those things which touch us nearest, the chief Church where lie entombed the bodies of the holy martyrs Perpetua and Felicitas, that other of Celerina, of the Scillitans, & the rest of the Churches unsubuerted, 
⸬ Suae religioni licentia tyrannica mancipaverunt.  they by licentious tyranny enslaved unto the service of their own religion. But where any munitions were, whereunto their laberous fury could not by assault attain, innumerable multitudes being brought together round about such Castles, with deadly weapons they slew them, to the intent that by stench of putrefying carcases, they might extinguish, whom, kept off by walls they could not approach. (afterwards King of Italy) who out of it paid him always tribute, as to the Lord thereof, retaining nevertheless a portion unto himself. Besides this he speedily charged his Vandals, that they should utterly chase away naked the Bishops, and the laity also of the better sort, from their Churches and mansions. Which was accordingly in most of them performed: Many, aswell Bishops as Lay-men of mark, and honourable persons, to be slaves unto Vandals, we ourselves have known.   

CHAP. FOUR how the Bishop and Clergy were handled at Carthage.  
AFTER this commanded he 
⸬ S. Augustine wrote his book de haer●sibus, unto his Disciple Quoduultdeus, perhaps this man. And his Epistle 19 unto Deogratias, seemeth unto him, who was this man's successor.  Quoduultdeus Bishop of the said City Carthage (a man well known to God and the world) and with him a very great company of the Clergy, naked and spoiled to be thrust into wether-broken ships, and so banished: whom God of his merciful goodness vouchsafed by prosperous navigation to bring to the City of Naples in Campane. Senators and men of worship he first quailed by cruel confining from their mansion places, and afterward expelled them beyond the Sea. Now then the Bishop being (as hath been declared) thrust out with his 
⸬ Clero venerabili.  reverend Clergy, forthwith delivered he up to his own Religion, the Church called Restituta, at which the Bishops customably made their abode: the rest also which were within the walls, he took away, together with the goods unto them belonging, and of those without the walls, he seized as many as he would; especially upon two very fair and large of the holy Martyr Cyprian; the one where he shed his blood, the other where his body was buried; which place is called 
⸬ Mapalia.  Sheepe-cotes. But who is he that can without tears call to mind, how he gave commandment, that the bodies of our dead should not (but in silence and without solemnity of hymns) be brought to the grave? Whereunto he also added, that the Clergy remaining should be punished with 
⸬ Exilio all. Exitio,  exile. While these things were doing, the 
⸬ Magni Sacerdote●  principal Priests and notable persons of those Provinces, which with to be brought: which Sebastian taking in his hand, spoke thus. This loaf that it might come to this fineness and whiteness, as to be counted fit for the kings board, was first bolted from the base gurgeons and bran, then, of a heap of flower was moistened with liquor, and so passed water and fire, coming thereby to be both fair to sight, and pleasant to taste: 
* *  Even so have I also already been ground in the 
⸬ Mola catholicae matris.  mill of our Catholic Mother, purged as clean flower, and tried with the siue, sprinkled with the water of Baptism, and baked with the fire of the holy Ghost: and as this bread out of the Oven; so have I by the divine Sacraments (God being the workman) issued pure and clean out of the celestial Font. But may it please you to perform that which I now propose; let this loaf be broken in pieces, steeped in water, moulded again, and then put into the oven, thence if it come out better than it already is, I will do as you exhort. Which proposition when Gensericke with all them in presence had heard, he was so entangled, that he could find no solution, and therefore afterwards slew that warlike parsonage, by another sort of argument.   

CHAP. VI The Church sore oppressed: Bishops banished.  
TO return from whence I digressed: savage commandments raised up daily terror, so that compassed in midst of the Vandals, we had not any leisure to take breath: neither might place of prayer or 
⸬ Immolandi.  sacrificing, be any where obtained by our complaints, so that the prophesy was then manifestly fulfilled. Now is there neither Prince, Prophet, nor 
Dan. 3.  Captain: nor place to sacrifice unto thy name. Every day wanted not injuries, even to those Priests, who were in such regions, as paid contribution to the Palace. 
* *  If any man in his exhortations to the people, named by chance (as the manner is) Pharaoh, Nabuchodonosor, Holofernes; or any such like, it was laid to his charge, that this he had mentioned in derogation of the kings person, and banishment was his immediate reward. Nevertheless as this persecution was in some place openly practised; so in an other quarter was it more 
* *  covertly put in ure, that by such deceit sooner might the name of the Godly be extinguished. Many Priests we knew at that season for this cause exiled; as Vrban Bishop of Girben, Crescens metrapolitan of the Aquitan City, who had under him sixscore Bishops suffragans, Habet-deum of Theudeles, Eustrace of Suffecta, and two more of Tripoli, one of Vicissibrata, and Cresconius of 
⸬ B. Nicenum.  E'en: Foelix also Bishop of Adrument, for that he had 
* *  received one john a Monk from the other side the Sea, with divers others also, whom it were over long to recite: during whose exile, nevertheless it was not permitted to install others in their Cities. Amidst those troubles stood the people of God fast in their belief, and like bees labouring their hives, and combs, increased and grew strong by the 
⸬ Melleis fidei claviculis. Exod. 1.  sweet tentrels of faith. In so much that the Scripture was accomplished. The more they were afflicted, the more they multiplied, and prevailed exceeding much.   

CHAP. VII. Of Deogratias and Thomas, Bishops of Carthage.  
IT came to pass in process of time, that to the city Carthage, after so long discontinuance & desolation, was at request of Valentinian the Emperor, ordained a Bishop, who had to name Deogratias. The actions of whom & what God wrought by him, who so should endeavour particularly to set down, the day would fail him before he had delivered any just part thereof. Being created Bishop, it fell out (our sins so deserving) that Gensericke in the fifteenth year of his reign, took the most noble and famous City Rome, carrying away with him the treasure of many Princes, together with the people. After the arrival of which captive multitude at the African shore, the Vandals and Moors sharing them (as the fashion of the Barbarians is) husbands were separated from their wives, children from their parents. Forthwith this notable Prelate full of God's spirit, caused all the golden and silver vessels belonging to divine service, to be sold for their redemption from barbarous little dying, seem now to be only three; if at leastwise there be so many: Vincent the ⸬ Vigitane Bishop, Paul the 
⸬ P. F. P. S. have Gigitanus and Sinnaritan.  Sitmaritane (a Paul indeed no less in desert, than name) and one Quintian, who flying the persecution liveth now a foreigner in Adessa a City of Macedon.   

CHAP. VIII. The notable constancy of Maturian and Maxima, as well in vowed chastity, as in profession of faith; and what followed thereof.  
WE find in that season many martyrdoms, but of Confessors a great multitude: some of whom I will endeavour to recite. One of those Vandals whom they call 
⸬ Millena●ios.  Colonels of thousands, had to his slaves 
⸬ P. F. Martinian.  Maturian and Saturian, and two of their brethren: and with them was fellow servant, a notable handmaid of Christ named Maxima, both in body and force beautiful. Maturian being an Armourer, and doing service very agreeable to his Lord, and Maxima governing the household, it entered into the Vandals imagination to join them in marriage, thinking by wedlock to establish their loyalty towards him. Maturian (as worldly young men are want) affected the marriage: Maxima already 
⸬ Deo sacrata.  consecrated to God, rejected the spousals of men. When the time came that they should go to the solitary chamber of their secrets, and that Maturian (ignorant what God had decreed of him) was desirous to be bold with her, as with his wife, the servant of Christ with quick voice answered him 
⸬ Christo membra corporis mei dicavi nec possum humanum sortiri coniugium.  To Christ (O brother Maturian) I have dedicated my body, neither can I be partaker of human 
* *  marriage, seeing I have already a heavenly and true spouse; but this counsel I give thee. It is in thee if thou wilt so bring the matter to pass, that thou thyself mayst also delight to become his servant, whose spouse thou seest I have chosen to be. So well framed this motion through our Lord God's appointment, that giving ear to the Virgin, he advanced the gain of his soul in his young years. To the Vandals ears came not the contract of this 
⸬ Spiritualis secreti commercia.  spiritual secret, until Maturian now mortified & changed, persuaded his brethren likewise, that as his true brothers they would partake of the treasure, which he had found. He thus 
⸬ conversus. At this day such as entering Monasteries became not Ecclesiastical, are called conversi (converts)  converted with his three brethren, they altogether, with the Maid in their company, issuing privily forth, were associated into the Tabracene Monastery, which the noble Pastor Andrew then governed. And she not far from thence lived in a Monastery of 
⸬ Puellarum.  Virgins. This could not be hidden from the Barbarian, who by diligent search and many rewards, made inquiry after them. Finding out therefore, 
⸬ Non iam sua, ●ed Christi mancipia.  no more his slaves, but Christ's, with fetters & torments, he vexed the servants of God: dealing with them, not only that they should use carnal knowledge; but (which is worse) that with filth of rebaptisation they should defile the beauty of their faith. King Gensericke, to whose ears this matter at last came, gave charge that they should be so long tortured, until they consented & yielded to his will. He command's strong truncheons knotted like a saw, and 
⸬ Palmatos  as big as one could gripe, to be addressed with their clubbed ends: which not only broke their bones, dashing against their backs, but pierced inward also with their sharp pricks, and fetching streams of blood, by renting the flesh discovered the bowels. Nevertheless in the day following were they always made whole, in so much that often (& for a long space) no signs of their hurts appeared, which by God's holy goodness were evermore cured. This passed, and Maxima remaining under fore imprisonment, was stretched out upon an unmerciful 
⸬ Compede crudeli P F. Cuspide.  pair of stocks, whom as the servants of God visited with great resort, before them all the strong timbered engine & huge pieces of wood, became rotten, and fell asunder. This miracle both is famous by the report of them all, & the party to whom the prison appertained, affirmed to me with an oath that it was true. But when the Vandal neglected to acknowledge her virtue, God's anger began to work revenge in his house. He himself with his children died, and the best also of his cattle perished. The Lady remaining a widow, destitute of Sons and substance, offered as a present the servants of Christ to 
⸬ P. F. S●saon.  Sersaon the King's cozen; Who having received them very thankfully, an evil spirit began presently by occasion of the Saints, in sundry wise to vex his children and family. What happened the King had word by his Kinsman, and decreed thereupon that they should be sent into banishment to 
⸬ B. Capsus  Capsur a Heathen King of the Moors. As for Christ's handmaid Maxima, he of his own motion, as one confounded and overcome, dismissed her: who yet liveth Mother to a multitude of 
⸬ Virginum Dei.  God's Virgins; and is one whom I know well. They were conveyed & delivered up to the said King of the Moors, inhabiting in the desert called Caprapict, where the Disciples of Christ, beholding amongst the Gentiles divers profane sorts of sacrifices, began by admonition and example also, to invite the Barbarous nation unto knowledge of our God. By which means they gained to Christ a huge multitude of the rude Gentiles, amongst whom the name & fame of Christian religion had never before been blazed, nor spread by any man. Then bethought they how best the unmanured & barren soil, might by preaching be cultured, and prepared to receive the seed of the Gospel, and subsequently be watered with holy Baptism. Sent are messengers through the wide journeys of the wilderness, and arriving at length at 
* *  Rome, make petition that some Priest & with him 
⸬ Ministros  Deacons, might be sent unto a people embracing the faith. Which suit 
⸬ Pontifex Dei.  Gods high Bishop with no small joy accomplished. Erected is a Church; baptised are wonderful great numbers of the Barbarians, and of those which were Wolves, increaseth a plentiful flock of Lambs. Relation whereof when Capsur had made to Gensericke; swelling with envy, he willed the servants of God to be drawn by the feet at Chariot's tails in full course, so to end their lives amongst thickets and thorns, and that the bodies of those innocents haled forwards & backwards, should be torn with sharp prickles of the bushes and brambles: being in such wise bound, that they might view each others end. Who as they thus tied beheld one another, the wild horses being in race, and the Moors lamenting at the sight, every of them at the point of the swift flight thus took his farewell. O brother pray for me, God hath fulfilled our desire: O this is the way to the kingdom of heaven. In such wise praising and singing, and the Angels rejoicing at the sight, their souls departed; where even until this day our Lord jesus Christ leaveth not to work great 
* *  miracles. B. Faustin Bishop of 
⸬ Buronitanus. P. F.  Burtinita protested to me once, that in his presence a blind woman there received her sight. they entered at the very hour, when the 
maritha, Galibus, Ammonis, Ptol.  divine Sacrament was in distributing to the people, and with extreme fury 
⸬ Corpus Christi & sanguinem pavimento ●●●rserunt▪ etc.  scattered on the pavement the body and blood of Christ, profaning the same under their beastly 
* *  feet.   

CHAP. X. The glorious profession of Armogas, his miraculous tomb. The happy constancy of Masculas.  
AT this time Gensericke by the setting on of his Bishops, gave commandment that none but Arrians should bear office in his, or his children's Court. They came amongst others, to our 
⸬ B. Armogaster.  Armogas, whose legs when they had often and long strained with big strings, and with nipping and twanging sinews had as yet rather wrinkled only, then furrowed his forehead, wherein 
* *  Christ had fixed the standard of his Cross: the Saint looking up to heaven, the strings and sinews braced in sunder like spider's twist. When the Torturers saw the sinewy 
⸬ B. Caballini●.  thongs burst, they brought again and again stronger cords, yea 
⸬ P. S. P F. Canabivis.  horse-ropes; all which came to nothing at his only calling upon the name of God. Hanging also by one foot with his head downward, he seemed to all men as if he slept upon a featherbed. When Theodoricke his Lord, and son to the King (torments not prevailing) would have commanded him to be beheaded, he was stayed by his Priest jocundus, telling him: you were better make him away by sundry vexations. For if you kill him with the sword, the Romans will begin to publish him a Martyr. Theodoricke hereupon condemned him into the Province of Bizagena, there to dig pits: afterward (as it were to greater despite) he willed that he should be a Cowherd hard by Carthage, where he might be seen of all men. At which time having revelation from our Lord, that his hour of rest approached, he called unto him one Foelix a worshipful Christian, Steward of the King's Sons house, and which reverenced Armogastes as an Apostle, and said unto him: the time of my dissolving is at hand, I desire you by the faith which both of us embrace, that you will bury me under this Elm tree, which if you do not, you shall render account thereof to God: not that he cared where or how his body should be buried, but that it might be manifest what Christ had revealed to his servant. Foelix answered: far be that from me, venerable Confessor: nay, I will bury you in a Church with that triumph and honour that you deserve. Blessed Armogastes replied, not so; but you shall do as I have said. He loathe to contristrate the man of God, promised indeed to fulfil that which he requested. Within very few days, the performer of so good a confession of faith, died. Foelix hastened to prepare the designed grave under the tree; and because the knotty roots entangled with the dry earth, bred delay; lest the Holy body should be buried with the latest, cutting the roots quite away, and digging much more deep, they beheld a ready coffin of very glistering marble, such as perhaps few or no Kings have enjoyed.  
But neither am I to pretermit one 
⸬ B. Masculinum.  Masculas 
⸬ Archimimum.  Master of the revels; whom diversly shot at, to deprive him of the Catholic faith, the King himself at last with glozing words invited, promising to heap upon him riches, if to his will he lent an easy ear. When for all this he remained constant and unconquered in faith, the King willed that he should undergo the sentence of death; yet craftily gave secret instructions, that if at the exigent he dreaded the stroke of the brandishing glaive, so much the rather he should die, not thereby being rendered a glorious Martyr: if contrariwise he were found constant in his confession, the sword should be stayed. But he (Christ giving him solid foundation) became an unmovable pillar, and returned a glorious Confessor. Though the envious enemy would not make him Martyr: yet could he not violate the dignity of a Confessor.   

CHAP. XI. The magnanimous resolution of Satyrus'.  
WE knew an other at the same time by name Satyrus', who being a bright member of the Church of Christ, many times 
⸬ Catholica libertate.  with catholic liberty reproved the impiety of the Arrians: & Steward he was of Hunricks house. Conspired it was through the instigation of 
⸬ P F P. S. Ma●inado.  Mauridan a Deacon, whom ungracious Hunricke singularly respected, that Satyrus' should be made an Arrian. honours with much riches are proffered in case he consent, dire torments are prepared if he refuse, this option being set before him, that unless he obeyed the kings commandment at the first discussion, presently forfeyting house and substance, his slaves and children should be sold, and his wife before his eyes, be delivered up in wedlock to a camel-driver. He on the other side full of God's spirit, preventing in a sort their wickedness, doubted not to exasperate their fury so far. Whereupon his 
⸬ Often after is mention, likewise of laymen's wives, but never of Priest's wives (notwithstanthe chief rage was against them)  wise without her husbands privity, secretly besought respite, and obtained it at their hands, who had in charge the putting of this rigorous sentence in execution. Then went she a second Eve unto her husband, being before hand 
⸬ Consilio magistrata.  taught her lesson, and advertised what to say: yet found she not him an Adam, that would dare to touch the illecebrous apples of the forbidden tree. For 
⸬ Non Indigens sed Satyrus'.  not Indigent, but Satured was he called, saturate with the plenty of the house of God, and one that had drunk at his delicious stream. To the place where her husband all solitary was at his prayers, came this woman; her garments rend, her hair about her ears, accompanied with her children, and a little sucking infant in her hands; whom casting at her husband's feet, and with all her arms about his knees, she hissed forth this serpentine voice. Have compassion (O my sweetest) of me thy poor wife, and no less of thy own self; have compassion of these children common to us both. Here behold them before thine eyes. Let them not be subject to servile condition, whom descent of our stock hath made noble. Let not me be yoked to a base and shameful marriage, yea and my husband yet alive: me (I say) who so often at feasts applauded to myself in my Satyrus'. God knoweth full sore against thy will shalt thou but do that, which voluntarily perhaps many have yielded unto. He gave her for answer those words of job. 
job ●.  Thou hast spoken like a foolish woman. Well should I be afraid, if there were no other joy, than the bitter sweets of this life. Thou servest now the devils turn, O wife: who, if thou didst love thy husband, wouldst never draw him to a second death. Let them take away my children, separate my wife, spoil me of my goods, I secure of my lords promise, will stick fast to his words. If any man shall not forsake wife, children, 
Luc. 14.  lands, or house, he can not be my Disciple. The end was this: the woman refused by advised reasons, went her way: Satyrus' courageous 
⸬ i. to Mardome.  for a Crown, is examined, spoiled, punished, and sent away a beggar, forbidden by going abroad to have any whither to resort. All took they from him, only of Baptisms stole could they not bereave him. Thus passed this, and Gensericke commanded the Church of Carthage, the Priests and their Deacons being dispersed into sundry places for want of a Bishop; which was hardly opened at meditation of Zeno the Emperor by Severus a noble man of Rome, where upon they all returned from banishment. What 
⸬ i. Gensericke.  he did in Spain, Italy, Slavome, champagne, Calabre, Poole, Sicil, Sardinia, Abruzo, Venice, Lucania, Epire, Greece, they can best declare which endured it. Here let the end be of our no less arrogant than cruel persecution, sustained under Gensericke. He reigned 
⸬ Procopius. 39  thirtyseaven years and months three.  
   

THE SECOND BOOK.  

CHAPTER. I. The dissimuled demeanour of King. Hunricke.  
GENSERICKE being dead, 
⸬ B. Honerichus. Nundrius. Procop. Honorichus.  his eldest Son Hunricke succeeded, who in the beginning of his reign, was somewhat tractable and moderate (after the accustomed subtilety of the Barbarians) especially concerning our affairs in religion. So that whereas heretofore under King Gensericke it had been proclaimed, that there should be no spiritual assemblies: now people made their meetings afresh. And to give remonstrance of a religious Prince, he caused the Manichaean heretics diligently to be searched out; many of whom he burned, most he sent away to foreign ships. All which 
⸬ The Anabaptists burnt under Q. Elie were all of them Protestants.  Manichees in a manner he found to be of his own religion, principally such as were Priests or Deacons of the Arrian heresy: which set him more on fire, because of the shame thereby redounding. One amongst them was found called Clementian a Monk, who had this their poesy charactered on his thigh: A Manichaean Disciple of Christ jesus. For this cause did the said tyrant the more endeavour to please; because in this one thing he much displeased, that with insatiable desire evermore eagrely gaping after his prey, he burdened the provinces of his Kingdom with sundry vexations & impositions; so that of him precisely it might besaid A King needing revenue is a great 
⸬ B. Calamitas. P. F. P. S. Calumniator.  calamity.   

CHAP. II. Eugenius created Bishop of Carthage, and of his virtue.  
ZENO the Emperor and Lady Placidia making intercession, 
⸬ Per edicta libri.  by their letters, authorized that the Church of Carthage might to themselves elect for Bishop whom they thought good, having been destitute of such an ornament now full 24 years, it was condescended unto by Hunricke, and licence granted. He sent therefore to the Church Alexander a noble man, who brought this message; that the Catholics should in his presence, postulate for themselves a worthy Priest. He sent also by his Secretary 
⸬ B. jutarit  Vuitared a Proclamation to be publicly read, containing this tenor.  
Our Lord the King hath willed us to show you, that the Emperor Zeno, and most renowned Placida, have written by Alexander a noble man, requesting by their letter, that the Church of Carthage may have a peculiar Bishop of your religion. This he hath given commandment should be performed, and hath written back unto them, or prescribed their Ambassadors to make report, that according to their desire, ye may ordain Bishop whom you will, under this condition, that in like sort the Bishops of our religion that are at Constantinople, or in any other Provinces of the East, may by his commandment have free liberty to 
⸬ Populo tractare.  preach to the people, and exercise Christian religion, in what 
*  language they will in their own Churches, in such sort as you here, or in other Churches of Africa, have free arbitrement to 
⸬ Missas agere.  say Mass, or preach in your Churches. For if this be not observed towards them, not only the Bishop that shall be created and his Clerks, but all other Bishops also with their Clergy over the African Provinces, shall be commanded to the Moors. As soon as this edict was in my own hearing read before the whole congregation, the 14. kalends of 
⸬ P. F. july:  june; we began sorrowfully to murmur amongst ourselves: for that by this politic pretext, a persecution was like to follow; and it is well known that to the Ambassador we made this answer. If the matter go thus, and stand upon such pernicious conditions, the Church delights not to have a Bishop: let Christ govern it who at all times hath vouchsafed to guide it. Which information the Ambassador neglected to admit, and with all the people burned with desire to have present dispatch, whose cry was intolerable, and could by no means be appeased. 
⸬ Of this holy man much writeth Greg. Tur. de gl. Confess. l. 2  Eugenius therefore a holy man and one acceptable to God, was chosen Bishop, of whose election the Church of God was greatly recomforted, people Catholic living under a barbarous government, triumphed to see the ancient creation of their chief Bishop, again renewed. The greatest number of young men and women by their universal joy well witnessing, that they had never seen a Bishop sitting in his Pontifical 
⸬ Throno.  Throne.  
This man of God, that blessed Priest Eugenius, began by virtuous conversation to be reverently esteemed, even of 
⸬ Hiis qui foris sunt, he alludeth to the Apostles phrase 1. Tim. 3. intending such are not united unto the Church of Christ.  those without, and to be so loving to all, that he would gladly have left his life (if it might be) for every of them. Such great alms also our Lord did by his means exhibit, that it seemed incredible how so much could be bestowed, where the Barbarous possessed all, the Church having not the value of on penny. His humility, charity, and piety wherewith he was endued from heaven, who so would attempt to express, he should fail of his purpose. It is for certain, that money never stayed with him, except perhaps it had been offered when the Sun having ended his course, gave place to darkness; and then only he reserved what might serve for a day, not what covetousness might have wished, our Lord daily sending him greater store. But his fame waxing every where glorious and manifest, the Arrian Bishops, especially Cyrill, began to be tormented with sore envy, and pursued him with daily quarrels. To be short they put into the King's head, not to suffer him to sit in his Pontifical Throne, nor preach after his accustomed manner: Further to forbid him, that any men or women attired after the Vandal manner, should be seen in the church. The Bishop answered as became him: The house of God is free for all; those which enter, no man may drive forth: and the rather, for that an exceeding multitude of our Catholics went after their guise, by reason of service in the King's Court.   

CHAP. III. The terrible usage practised upon Courtiers, resorting to the Catholic service.  
SUCH answer, as soon as the King had received from the man of God, he ordained torturers at the Church-gates, who, when they espied man or woman clad like one of the Vandal nation, forthwith clapping on their heads fleshhooks and writhing about the same their locks of hair, with a strong twitch pulled away both hair and scalp withal, from the head: some being thus served, lost therewith their eyes; certain also died outright. The women after this torment endured, were carried through the streets to the gaze of the City, with a Crier before them, which they (who suffered it) made reckoning of, as a great gain: many of whom we knew; but any one of them to have for the pain forsaken their strait way, I never knew. When by this means he could not infringe the constancy of any one of the faithful, he determined that none of our religion being of his Court, should receive their provision of corn, or accustomed penfions. He proceeded also to try them with rural labours, & sent men of good calling & delicately brought up, to the Country of Utica, there under the servant parching of the Sun 
⸬ Vt Cespites messi●m desec●●ent.  to delve for tillage, whither all of them cheerfully going forwards, rejoiced in our lord Among whom one of the company had a withered hand, which for many years stood him in no steed, who therefore not untruly alleged that he could not work yet was he so much the more violently pressed forth. But as soon as they came to the place, and that all falling to their prayers mourned, & principally for him; through the mercy of God, that dry hand of the Confessor became hole. This was the entrance of Hunrickes' persecution, and now began our grief and 
⸬ Part●●●●tio.  travailing.   

CHAP. II. The horrible tyranny of Hunricke toward his own lineage.  
HE, who had now begun to show himself desirous (although it otherwise fell out) to leave his Kingdom to his children after his death, persecuted cruelly his brother Theodoricke with his sons, and the sons likewise of his brother Genton, of whom not one should have escaped, had not death interrupted his designment. First for as much as he knew the wife of 
⸬ B Dederichus & The dericus. P. F. & P. S. Theodoricus.  Theodoricke to be a politic woman, he slew her upon pretended ruin, least by some witty wile she should (as I suppose) arm her husband's eldest son against the tyrant, as she that was both wise and sage: After whom was also slain her eldest son, who had been brought up in learning, and by the constitution of Gensericke, should first of all his nephews enjoy the Kingdom, being the eldest of them all. Proceeding yet farther, he resolved upon more cruelty, and caused jocundus a Bishop of his own sect (whom also they called Patriarch) to be buried in the marketplace, before the stairs of the new street, in face of all the people; for no other cause, but that he was held very dear in the house of Theodoricke the King's brother, by whose assent it may be, that the said family might have obtained the Kingdom. Which impious villainy gave us to foresee the mischief that hung over our own heads, saying one to another: he that showeth such cruelty to his own Priest, when will this fellow spare us and our religion? Next he banished with inhuman exile, Godagis the elder of Gentons' sons, and his wife, without permitting the solace of servant or handmaid. His brother Theodoricke likewise (his wife and son being before slain) he sent packing, naked and in distress: after whose death he set his little infant, & two daughters of ripe years, on Ass backs, and to their great affliction sent them wandering far away. divers Earls and Nobles of his own nation he pursued, laying false surmises to their charge, for that they 
⸬ B. made themselves a brotherhood.  favoured his brother. Some of them he burned; others he slew with the sword, a right imitator of his Father Gensericke, who drowned his brother's wife in Amsag the 
⸬ B. faetidum.  famous River of the 
⸬ Ptol. Cirtesii, whose City was Cirta Iuli●.  Cirtenses, weighty stones hanged at her neck: and after the death of the mother, slew also her sons. Sundry had been commended unto Hunricke (and that under an oath) by his father Gensericke at his death, whom, he unmindful of fidelity, and violating his oath, put to death by fire, and sundry torments, 
⸬ B. ●ldicus  Heldicas, whom his father had sometime made governor of his Kingdom, now an aged man and full of years, he beheaded, and burned his wife in the midst of the City, together with an other woman called 
⸬ all. Th●ucaria.  Thamaria: the bodies of whom he willed to be drawn through the streets, hardly suffering them at the entreaty of his Bishops, to be buried at evening, when they had lain all the day in open view. 
⸬ P. F. P. S. Gamut.  Caniut brother to Heldicas, having fled to their Church, he might not slay, whom yet he shut into a filthy draft, and made him there live a long space: lastly condemned him with a certain goatheard & a Country fellow, to dig holes for vines; whom besides this he caused to be rend with terrible whips, twelve times in the year, that is every month once, scant granting them a little water and brown bread. This they suffered five years or more, who if they had been Catholics and endured for their faith, these punishments might have availed them to an eternal reward. But thus much I could not but write, lest the king's impiety even towards his own company, should be omitted; who not only brent with flames his Bishop locundus (as I have already told) but very many other in like manner of his Priests and Deacons, that is to say of Arrians, he addicted either to flames or to 
⸬ Bestiis mancipavit  keep beasts. All those being now in short space cut off, whom he feared; and having established (as he thought) the Kingdom, which nevertheless was to be but short & transitory, being somewhat secure and void of affairs, he addressed all the instruments of his fury, to persecute the Catholic Church.   

CHAP. V. Visions sorewarning the Catholics of persecution towards them.  
YET before the tempest of persecution 
Thou givest to them which  fell, the imminent mischief at hand, was foreshowed by many visions and tokens, which went before it. For almost two years 
1. fear thee, a token to fly from the face of the bow. Psal. 59  before it came, a certain man saw Faustus' Church glittering with accustomed ornaments, & while he rejoiced in the brightness of so great glory, as the tapers gave goodly light, and aswell the rich pals and clothes as the lamps glisteren; suddenly (as he said) the amiable clearness of that light vanished, & darkness succeeding, a favour abominable arose, and all the company of the father's present, were by certain Arrians driven out of doors; so much the more to be lamented because he saw not the former beauty restored any more: this vision he which saw it, told in my hearing to holy Eugenius. A certain priest also saw the same church of Faustus full of innumerable people, & a little after none at all, but in their place a multitude of swine. An other 
3.  saw a floor of wheat ready to be winnowed, the corn not (as yet) separated from the chaff; and while he wondered to see so great a confused heap, suddenly a tempestuous whirlwind with roaring noise began, the approach whereof the rising of the dust showed; by the force hereof all the chaff flew away, the corn remaining. Then came a certain tall parsonage, of a goodly countenance, and costly appareled, who began to cleanse the wheat, casting away the empty and pined grains, such as were unapt for slowre, until having thus tried, and leased a good space, he had brought the greatness of that heap to a quantity, though winnowed and fine, yet passing small. Moreover, an other told us thus. 
3.  A certain high man stood upon our lords hill, which is called Ziquens, and cried on the right hand and on the left. Get ye hence, get ye hence. There was one 
4.  which beheld in a ruddy sky, sulphury clouds tossing up and down, which began to shoot forth mighty stones; these stones falling to the earth kindled more fiercely, and flashed with greater flames, & entering into houses, burned those whom they found within. He that saw it said that he hid himself in a chamber, whither the ●●●me, through God's mercy, could not approach: that the words of the Prophet might as (I think) be fulfilled. Shut thy door, and be hidden a little space, 
Isa. 26. ●.  until the anger of God pass. The reverent Bishop Paul saw also a tree, stretching out with flourishing branches to the very heavens, which also was so well spread, that it ouer-shadowed all Afrique: and when all people took pleasure in the tallness and beauty thereof, there came (said he) an Ass with great violence, who rubbing his neck against the stock of the root, over threw by his shoving, that wondrous tree, not without a great crack. Quintianus 
6.  likewise an 
⸬ B. Venerable.  honourable Bishop saw himself standing upon an hill, from whence he beheld an innumerable flock of sheep, and in midst of the flock were two boiling pots. Butchers were also there, who did cast the flesh of those muttons into the seething pots, and by so doing the whole flock was consumed. Imagine these two pots to be the Cities Sicca Veneria, and 
⸬ B. Lara. but Ptol. hath Lares  Laribus, where the multitude was first assembled, and whence this fire   

CHAP. VII. The horrible banishing of almost five thousand persons, with certain pitiful accidents happening in the same.  
WITH what floods of tears shall I now present, how he banished to the wilderness Bishops, Priests, Deacons, and other members of the Church, four thousand, nine hundred, seventy and six: amongst whom some had the gout, others through very age lost their bodily sight. Amongst whom was blessed Foelix Bishop of 
⸬ P. F. P. S. Abdiritanus.  Abbiris, who had fourty-foure years continued Episcopal dignity, and being strooken with a palsy, neither felt any thing, nor could speak at all. Of whom being very careful, because he could not ride, I persuaded that the King might be moved by some about him, to permit him at least (being almost at point of death) to remain at Carthage: for to banishment he could by no means be carried. Whereunto (as is reported) the Tyrant freshly answered: If he cannot sit upon a beast, let wild bulls be coupled and draw him tied fast with ropes, to the appointed place. We carried him therefore throughout the journey, bound overthwart a 
⸬ Super b●●donem.  mulets back, as if he had been a log. All were brought together to the Cities of Sicca and Laribus, whither the Moors resorting, should receive them delivered up to their hands, and transport them to the wilderness. Then came thither two Earls, who with damnable subtlety began in sweet communication to deal with God's Confessors. What mean you (say they) to be so obstinate, not to obey our Lord the kings laws; who may honourably stand in his presence if you speedily obey his will? Straight way all with a great shout cried out and said: We be Christians, we be Catholics, we invincibly confess the Trinity one God.  
They were after this shut in a prison very grievous, but somewhat large, where I found means to get in, made an exhortation to the brethren, and 
⸬ Diui●● misteria celebrandi.  celebrated the divine mysteries. There were also very many little children, whom their mothers followed, with motherly affection: some rejoicing; others drawing them back: some were glad that they had borne Martyrs; others persuading to the deluge of rebaptisation, endeavouring to recall them from confession of their faith: but their allurements could not then overcome any, neither made any one stoop unto earthly affections. It liketh me here briefly to declare what a good old woman did. As I travailed accompanying Gods army, setting forwards more by night then by day, because of the heat; I beheld a poor woman carrying a bag, and other implements, leading in her hand an infant, and encouraging him in this wise. Run 
⸬ Domine meus.  Sirrah: seest thou all the Saints how merry lie they go forward, and hasten to their Crown? Whom when I rebuked, for that she seemed unseasonable, presuming to thrust herself amongst the professed warriors of Christ, and being a woman to associate herself with men. She answered 
⸬ P. S. hath it but once.  Benedicite, benedicite, and 
* *  pray ye for me with this my little nephew. For sinner though I be, daughter I am to one, who was Bishop of Zurina 
⸬ P. F. Zurita.  I asked her why then she walked in so mean a sort, and for what cause she had under taken so long a journey. Who replied: With this my little boy I go to the place of banishment, lest the enemy finding him alone, call him from the way of truth, to death. To these words I could answer nothing else, the tears trickling down my cheeks, but only, Gods will be done. The adversary, who now perhaps said in his heart: I will part the spoils, 
Exod. 15.  I will glut my soul, I will slay with my sword, my hand shall rule. As soon as he saw that he could not catch one, sought narrow and filthy places wherein to pen up God's company. Then was to them denied all comfort of access, for permitting whereof the keepers had been beaten with staves, and sorely punished. The Confessors of Christ are tumbled one upon an other, as swarms of grasshoppers, or (to speak more properly) as grains of corn. In which thronging together, there could be no means of stepping a side to do the office of nature, but of necessity even there was the receptacle of their ordure and urine, so that the horror and stench thereof surpassed all other manner of pains. I was once (not without much a do, and deep bribes bestowed on the Moors) permitted to enter whilst the Vandals slept. Stepping in I began as at a mire, to sink up to the knees, and saw that of jeremy come to pass, who were bred up in Saffron 
jerem. 4.  〈◊〉, embraced 〈◊〉. In fine being called upon by the insolent and clamorous Moors, to hasten forward their imposed journey, issuing forth upon a Sunday, their garments, face, and head besmeared with dirt: in cruel wise were they led away by those Moors, singing yet unto our Lord with great joy: 
⸬ Glory is this to all his Saints. Psal 14●.  Gloria haec est omnibus Sanctis eius. Present was there also at that time, Cyprian the blessed Prelate Bishop of 
⸬ B Vnzibil. but Ptol. V●●●●bi●a▪ Pl●● Vl●●uburita  V●izi●ir, who to their singular consolation, cherished every one with godly and fatherly affection, and not without streams of tears, ready to leave his own life for the brethren, and to yield himself voluntarily to the fellowships of their pains, if he might have been suffered. He spent in very deed in that hard distress, all that he had, bestowing it upon the impoverished brethren: for he sought occasion how he might be joined to the Confessors, being himself a Confessor already in preparation of heart, and in virtue: afterwards passing many bicker and calamities of prison, he enjoyed to his great gladness, the exile which he so desired. How great multitudes followed from sundry Countries and Cities, to see the 
⸬ Martyrs in a longer sense than it is now a days taken  Martyrs of God, the ways and paths bear witness, not able to contain the flock of people, who coming as beholders, ran up and down on the higher ground. An inestimable troop also of the faithful, with wax tapers in their hands, descended down; who casting their children at the feet of the Martyrs, cried out thus. 
* *  To whom will you leave us wreatches, while you go forwards to your Crown? Who shall christian these sucklings in the font of the everlasting water? who shall impart unto us the benefit of Penance, by 
⸬ Reconciliationis in dulgentia. Matt. 16.  reconciling and indulgence, absolving us from the bands of our sins? for as much as it is said, whatsoever ye shall lose on earth, shallbe loosed in heaven? who shall with solemn prayers commend us to the grave, when we die? By whom shall the wont Rites of the 
⸬ Divini sacrificii.  divine Sacrifice be performed unto us? Our hearts serve us well to go with you, if we might; that so no necessity might separate the sons from you our fathers. A midst these words, not destitute of 
⸬ B. praises  tears, is no man any more admitted to go forwards with them for their comfort: but the whole crew was pressed forwasrds and made to run, that they might reach to the laboursome lodging where the 
⸬ The Arrabians at this day call such a troop Caravanna and very near to Cannava is the word Convoy, usual through Christendom in the same sense  Cannava was prepared. As oft as the men fainted, or any other (yea although tender children) they were first punched forwards with the tops of staves, or with stones; but afterwards the Moors were commanded to tie by the feet, those which were not able to go, & hale them through the hard rough places, like carcases of brute beasts. So, first were their garments rend, than all parts of their bodies. For here a head was dashed against the 
⸬ Gladios acutos petrarum.  sharpedged rocks, there sides were thumped; so that life was gasped out, even between the hands of them which haled them: the number of whom I could not reckon, thy were so many. Extant remaineth to be seen all alongst the common 
⸬ Aggerem publicum.  high way, the reckless burial of the Saints, their graves witnessing, where they lie. The rest as stronger, arrived at the wilderness, where being settled, they had barley (as beasts) given them for food. Where also is reported to be so great plenty of venomous worms and scorpions, as to them who know it not, might seem incredible, which with their very breath infect and poison, even such as are far of. And they say that no man stung with one of those Scorpions, ever escapeth; whose deadly venom nevertheless, was at no time found to have hurt any one of Christ's servants, through his merciful protection. But when as a while they had been fed with barly-corne, that same also was afterwards withdrawn, as though God, who rained Manna to the ancient Fathers, could not as well sustain his banished ones in so desolate a place.   

CHAP. VIII. Hunricke summoneth the Catholics to disputation with the Arrians.  
SHARPER proceedings were yet farther continued against the Church of God: he which evermore destroyed the members thereof, being desirous to tear in pieces the whole body. For upon the day of our lords ascension, an Ambassador of the Emperor Zeno (not the King himself) being present, came this precept directed to Bishop Eugenius, to safed to advertise my meanness by his secretary Witared, who because it concerned religion and faith, did in the Church rehearse his charge unto us, both Clergy and people being present. By the contents whereof we understand the kings Writ, to have in like sort gone forth to all our 
⸬ Coepiscopos.  brethren Bishops, appointing us to meet at a determinat day, to dispute of our faith. This ordinance we signified, how reverently we embraced, & to the said secretary my meanness gave information, that all of the parties beyond the Sea agreeing with us in one Religion and communion, aught to have notice hereof (for those of the Kingdom are all ready to obey) especially for that it is the common cause of the whole world, and not only of the African Provinces. For as much then as I promised to exhibit by 
⸬ B. Sancto  a second bill, a further answer, I humbly beseech your Honour, to present unto our Lord and merciful kings ears, the information before mentioned, that his clemency may in good sort know, that we (God-willing) by no means shun the order taken for disputation; but that without assent of the whole, we must not take upon us to determine matters of faith. For this cause require we, that he vouchsafe of his great bounty, justice, and wisdom, to condescend thereunto. Dated by Eugenius Bishop of the Catholic Church of Carthage.  
When this information was put up by blessed Eugenius: he who had now conceived mischief, was pricked forward to utter forth his impiety with worse vexation, and by 
⸬ P. F. P. S▪ Ob●d●s.  Cubadus Provost of the Realm, sent to Eugenius this word. Subdue to me all the earth that the whole world may be brought under my power, and then 
⸬ B. evangelium.  (Eugenius) will I fulfil thy demand. Whereunto blessed Eugenius replied, as he well might. That which hath no reason ought not to have been spoken: This is as one should bid a man soar up in the air and fly, which is contrary to the fashion of human nature. For I said if the kings mightiness desired to understand our faith, which is the only true belief, let him send to his friends, and I will likewise write to my brethren, that our Bishops may come, who together with us may demonstrate our common faith, especially to the Church of 
* Quae caput est omnium Ecclesiarum.  Rome which is the head of all Churches. To this answered Cubadus. Then of like you and my Lord the King are hail fellows. Eugenius answered; Not so, but as I said, If he desire to know the true faith, let him write to his friends, that they send directions for our Catholic Bishops, and then will I write to the Bishops of our side: for the case is one and the same, of all the whole Catholic faith. This did Eugenius, not for that there wanted in Africa that could refel the adversaries objections, but to the intent that they might come, who being far from their Dominion, might have more confident liberty, and withal open unto all nations our injurious oppression. But he that contrived nothing but deceit, would hear no reason, compassing by sundry presumptions, to molest & grieve whom soever of the Bishops he heard say to be learned. Already had he the second time banished Donatian Bishop of 
⸬ B. Vinia●ense se●undum, ●●c.  Vibia, with an hundred and fifty bastinadoes; and the Subfetulan Bishop Praesidius, a sharp witted man: After them served he in like sort Mansuetus, German, Fuscle, and divers others. While this was doing, he commanded that none of our religion should have any of theirs to sojourn at our board, nor that they should at all eat at meals with Catholics. Which thing was to them nothing beneficial, but turned to our great advantage: for if their speech (as the Apostle 
2. Tim. 2.  teacheth us) is wont to creep like a canker, how much more could their familiarity at table infect? seeing the same Apostle 
1. Cor. 5.  commandeth not so much as to communicate with the wicked at their meat. But now where the fire of persecution was once kindled, and that the fury of the malicious King did every where flame, our Lord showed a miracle by his faithful servant, which I may not pass over.   

CHAP. IX. Eugenius Bishop of Carthage restoreth by miracle, sight to a blind man.  
THERE was in this city Carthage a certain blind man, well known to all the City, by name Foelix, this man was visited of God, and at night by a vision received he this commandment. Get thee hence and go to my servant Eugenius, say that I have sent thee to him, and at the hour when he halloweth the Font, where by those which come to the faith may be Christened, he shall touch thy eyes and they shall be opened, and thou shalt see the light. Warned by such apparition, yet reputed he himself (as it often falleth out) beguiled by a dream; neither would he arise, but drowned again with sleep, was in like manner again called upon to go to Eugenius. He neglected nevertheless as before, and the third time being hastily and sharply rebuked, raised up the boy, which was wont to reach him his hand, and gets in all haste to Faustus' Church, & after prayer made, he signifieth to Peregrine a Deacon (neither without streams of tears) that he had to speak with the Bishop, and to declare a secret unto him; which the Bishop understanding, willed the man to be brought in. For already in solemnity of the feast, resounded the 
⸬ Hymni Nocturni Cantante populo. Which term of Nocturne remaineth at this day in the church's office or service.  Nocturne, Hymns throughout the Church, and the people were singing with loud voices. The blind man told in order his vision, and plainly said: I will not leave you until according to our Lords hests, you yield unto me my sight. Depart from me said the holy Eugenius, a sinner I am, and of all other sinners most unworthy, as one, who therefore am reserved unto such times as these. But the other clasping about his knees, said nothing else then as before: Render me my sight. Eugenius then esteeming it a certain kind of shameful 
⸬ B. crudelitate.  rigour, if he should stiffly refuse, and because withal the time did call 
⸬ P. F. P. S. credulitate.  him away, accompanied with the Clergy he went along with the man to the Font. Where kneeling down, not without great groans, he pierced the heavens with sighs, and 
⸬ Crispantem benedixit aquae fontem. P. F. alueum fontis.  blessed the whivering waters. As soon as he had risen from his prayer, he said to the blind: I have told thee already (brother Foelix) that I am a sinful man: but he, which vouchsafed to visit thee, perform to thee according to thy faith, & open thy eyes. At these words he signed his eyes with the standard of the Cross, and through the grace of God, the blind man received sight: whom he there retained by him, as long as the baptizing endured; lest by reason of this so great a miracle, the people should oppress the man with great concourse about him. Then was it manifested to the whole Church; and the blind man went with Eugenius to the Altar (as the manner is) to make an offering to our Lord, for his health received, which the Bishop took and laid upon the Altar: and the people through extreme joy, gave an 
⸬ P. S. P F. irrevocabilis B●●naestimabilis.  unappeasable shout. Strait way went one with hasty report hereof, to the King. Foelix is featch away, examined what had passed, and how he received his sight. He uttered the whole in order: the Arrian Bishops said that Eugenius had wrought by sorcery. And because (oppressed with the clearness of the thing, so that they could not shadow it) they were greatly confounded (for Foelix was a man well known to the whole City) if it had been lawful, they would therefore have slain him, as the jews sought to put Lazarus to death after he was raised to life.   

CHAP. X. The impudent and unreasonable proceeding of the Arrians, about their challenge of disputation.  
NOW drew near that quarreling day, appointed the Calends of February; there assembled Bishops, not only of Africa, but of many Islands also, wearied with affliction and sorrow. Many days together there was no mention of disputing, until in the meane-space 
⸬ i. the king  he had singled out the skilfullest and learnedst persons, to the intent that by sundry calumniations he make them away. For one of that learned crew, named Laetus (a stout & most learned man) after long imprisonment he consumed by fire, thinking by so doing to strike a fear into the rest, & bleamish the cause. At last yet began the conflict of disputation, at the place which the adversaries had chosen. Our Divines therefore eschewing all tumultuous clamour (lest the Arrians should after say that they had by some of ours been overruled) chose certain amongst their own company to answer for all. Cyrill placed aloft for himself and his 
⸬ Satellitibus.  attendants, a most stately throne, we standing on our feet: whereupon our Bishops began to say. Conference is there alway to be taken in hand, where not proud superiority of power beareth sway; but where an assembly is by common consent made, that the disputers debating the controversy, and each part doing their endeavour, the truth may come to light. But now who shall be the disputer? who the defender? which with upright balance may either confirm that, which is rightly avouched, or refel unreasonable assertions. When they used these and such like words, the King's secretary answered. The Patriarch Cyril saith, that some of you arrogantly and unlawfully usurp to themselves the name of catholics. Our company then with protestation of the same, said: let it be read unto us by whose authority Cyril taketh upon him this title. Thereat our adversaries making a great stir, began to cavil. And forasmuch as our side requested, that if the wiser people might not examine the matter, at least they might be lookers on; all the sons of the Catholic Church there present, were commanded to have a hundred strokes with a cudgel. Then began Blessed 
⸬ B. Eusebius.  Eugenius to say aloud: God, behold the violence, which we suffer, and consider the tribulation, which we sustain of our persecutors. With this our men turning to Cyril, said: propound that which you intent. Cyril excused himself that he understood not Latin. Our Bishops replied that they always knew him to have spoken Latin, that therefore he ought not now to draw back, especially seeing he was the kindler of those coals. But he perceiving the Catholic Bishops to be ready for to join with him, would needs by divers illusions and shifts, avoid audience: which our part foreseeing, had composed a Pamphlet concerning faith, very seemly and sufficiently compiled: this they now exhibited, with protestation: If ye be desirous to know our belief; the faith which we hold, is herein comprised.  
The exhibited book here mentioned, is omitted. For though P. S. erroneously entitle it Victors; yet Victor himself hath already testified the contrary: and Gennadius noteth the Author thereof to have been Eugenius.;    

THE THIRD BOOK.  

CHAPTRR. I. The Churches are closed: the Catholic Bishops by Proclamation deprived of their Seas, and their goods given to Arrian Ministers.  
OUR book being put up and perused, yet could not they with their blear eyes behold the light of truth: but wood for anger, and storming with outrageous language, they took it very ill, that we called ourselves by our name of Catholics. And forthwith they falsely suggest to the King, that with clamorous noise we avoided audience of the matter, who giving credit to their lies, kindled at that present with choler, hastened to fulfil that which he had in his heart. And during the abode of the Bishops at Carthage, he sent his messengers secretly with an edict through the Provinces, by force whereof in one day he closed all the Churches of Africa, and gave unto his Bishops for a gift, all the substance of the Bishops and of the Churches. And more than this, not knowing himself what he said, or of what he spoke, the law which our Christian Emperors had long before decreed against them and other Heretics, for the honourable maintenance of the catholic Church, the same they blushed not to set forth against us. Adding much of their own heads, as seemed best to their tyrannical power: For this is the form of the proclaimed law.  

A PROCLAMATION.  
HUNRICKE King of the Vandals and Alanes, to all subjects of our Realm. It is the part of triumphant virtue, and a thing worthy our 
⸬ Maiestatis Regiae.  royal majesty, to recoil evil devices astainst their Authors. For whosoever inventeth any wickedness, let him impute it to his own folly, if he fall into mischief. In which thing, our Grace following the aim of God's judgement, hath assigned unto all persons, as their deserts good or bad require. Provoked therefore by such as have thought meet to resist the commandment of our Father of 
⸬ ●nclytae recorda●●onis.  famous memory, or of our own 
⸬ Mansuetudinis.  clemency, we do now take upon us at length, the censure of severity. For whereas by our authority, we have proclaimed amongst all our people, that in the shires of the Vandals, the Priests of the 
⸬ Homou●●an●.  Consubstantials should not have their assemblies, nor take upon them any of their mysteries, which indeed do rather contaminate, than other wise. This when we saw to be neglected, and that very many were found, which affirmed they kept and retained the uncorrupted rule of faith: it is well enough known, that they were all cited under nine months warning, that they should with out any fear, assemble together for disputation's sake (if at least they had any thing to say for their purpose) at the Calends of Febr. the 8th. year of our Reign. To whom after their meeting at the City of Carthage, when delay of the time prescribed was expired, we are known to have granted farther respite of certain days. As soon as they showed themselves ready for the conflict, it was the first day propounded unto them, by our reverend Bishops, that they should 
⸬ Propriae.  directly prove consubstantiality by the divine Scriptures: or at leastwise condemn that, which was decided and 
⸬ Amputatum est.  cut off, by 
⸬ No marvel though the Arrians lie in the number for neither also were they two Counsels, being by the Church of Rome rejected.  more than a thousand Bishops from all parts of the world, at the Counsels of Arimini, and Seleucia; which thing they would not do, but drawing the matter to a sedition, incensed also the people. The second day likewise, when we commanded them to make answer concerning the same faith; as it had been proposed unto them, they enterprised their former rashness and misdemeanour, perturbing all things with sedition and clamour, that they might not at all come to the conflict. Whereunto we them provoking, have ordained that their Churches shall be shut up, with this proviso: so long to remain closed until they assent to proceed unto disputation: Which they waxing obstinate in their wicked devices, have refused to accomplish. So that it is in this case necessary, and most just with all, to return upon those men, what in the corpse of those laws is expressed, 
⸬ B. induxisse cum errore P. F. induxisse secum in errorem. In P. S. this clause wanteth.  which the Emperors by them induced into error, did at several times promulgate. 
⸬ These laws are extant in the decrees of Theodosius the worthy Emperor. B. superstition.  The substance of which laws seemeth to contain, that no Church should be open to any other, then to the Bishops of their own institution, that it should be lawful for none other to 
* Conuictus agere.  live collegially, to make assemblies, or to have or build any Churches at all, either in the City, or yet in the simplest places; but that also attempted, escheat to the Prince. And moreover, that inheritances annexed to any Church of their faith, should not any more be paid to their Prelates. Nor that such persons should have licence 
⸬ B. Commeandi. P. F. P. S. Commemorare.  to pass up and down, whither them pleased, but should be banished from all Towns and Cities, neither have authority either to baptise, or to dispute of religion. That also they should have no leave 
⸬ Ordinan di, it is meant of holy orders.  to give orders, either to Bishops or Priests, or others appertaining to the Clergy; a rigorous penalty being set down, that aswell they which should suffer themselves to receive such honours, as those also that were 
⸬ Ordina●ores.  givers of such orders, should every of them, be fined in ten pound of gold, with their farther extension, that they should not be permitted to make supplication about it. Yea, if so be they had 
* In B it wanteth.  by special service deserved respect, 
* In B it wanteth.  yet should they not prevail. But in case that notwithstanding this detriment, they persisted, then should they by convenient prosecution, be exiled out of their Country. Toward the commonalty extended likewise those Emperors their severity, so that they might neither bequeath, nor give or take, even that which was cast off and forsaken, not as made over upon trust, not by legacy, not by grants, not by executorship, not by any 
⸬ Codicillo  bill or other manner of writings. They also made such as were 
⸬ Milita●ent palatio  pensioners in the palace, liable to penalty of an excessive forfeiture, 
*⁎* Albetwene this sign, and the like far after following, is in B. most confusedly misplaced.  after the rates of their degree and dignity, that spoiled of all honourable privilege they should incur infamy, and find themselves noted for public offenders. To the 
⸬ Officialibus judicum diversorum.  offices also of several tribunals, was prescribed the penalty of 
⸬ 30. pondo.  thirty pound of silver: which if they who persisted in their error, had five times paid, then should such persons be convicted, whipped, and so banished. Next had they given in commandment, that the books of all those Priests, whom they persecuted, should be cast into the fire, and all other such books; which in like manner we also now command to be done with those books, by means of which, iniquity hath induced itself into error of that name. For as touching the several persons, of whom was spoken, these ordinances they made, that 
⸬ P F. Illustres, spectabiles, senatores, populares.  persons of excellency should every of them forfeit fifty pound of gold, the ⸬ honourable forty pound, Senators thirty, common Gentlemen twenty, Priests thirty, decurions five, merchants five, 
⸬ Plebeii.  common people five, 
⸬ Circumcelliones.  wandering ruffians ten; and who might happen to continue after this damage, their goods confiscated, they should by banishment be punished: upon 
⸬ Ordines civitatum.  corporations in Cities, procurators also, and takers of leases, this penalty they inflicted; that if they concealed, and did not disclose or atach such persons, presenting them to judgement, they themselves shall make good the forfeiture. Moreover to those who took the lands of the Crown to farm, this mulct was set down, that as much as was their yearly rent to the kings household, so much should they semblably pay into his Exchequer for a fine; as in general the like to be observed in all, either hyrers or possessors of land, which shall be minded to endure in the same superstition, I here do appoint. Of judges furthermore, that who so were found not to be most instant in prosecuting this affair, should be punished by outlawry, and loss of life. Also of the chief officers, that three should be punished, the rest be amerced, and cast in twenty pounds of gold. Of necessity therefore must all the Homousians be bound by the very like constitution, whom it is evident indeed to have held, and still to hold the substance of ae wicked belief: unto whom we now by this our decree denounce, that they abstain from 
⸬ Hominibus, but surely for omnibus.  all the a foresaid matters, which shall be prosecuted throughout all 
⸬ Ordines.  estates in the Cities; as likewise upon justices, who neglecting the former ordinances, can be proved not to have grievously punished such as withstand the same. To all persons therefore entangled with the errors of the forementioned faith of the Homousians, which hath wholly been heretofore so condemned by a Council of such a great number of Priests, we enjoin and give commandment, that they abstain from all the foresaid affairs and contracts. Let them know, that nothing is permitted unto them, but that semblable punishment attends to involve them every one, unless before the kalends of june, in the eight year of our Reign, they convert unto the true 
*  Religion, which we reverence and honour. Which prefixed day for no other purpose hath our piety afforded, then to the end that unto such, as before hand renounce their error, pardon be not denied, and the obstinate be by due punishments chastised. But whosoever shall persever in that error, whither they enjoy Knighthood of our house, or happily have charge under several Titles and employments, let them be compellable to infliction of those mulcts above prescribed, according to the qualities of their degrees: nothing in the mean season being of any validity, which any of them may happen by surreption to obtain, against private persons of what calling and place soever they be: This our proclamation willeth, that to be observed, which in the former laws was concerning such expressed, that they may undergo congruent punishment. judges provincial slackly putting our ordinances in execution, we will that they be sentenced by their superior judge. 
* ⁎ *  But to true worshippers of the Majesty divine (that is to say unto our Priests) we by this our constitution do decree and provide, all manner of Churches belonging to the whole Clergy of the name above mentioned, in what places or Countries soever they stand within these Dominions, which 
⸬ Propitia divinitate  by the grace of God are under our imperial government, together with all such things as to the same appertain; not doubting but to relief of the poor it shall prove more beneficial, which to our 
⸬ Sacrosanctis.  thrise-holy Bishops is so justly given. We notify then unto all men this law of ours, issuing from the very fountain of justice, that none may pretend ignorance of our commandment.  
Fare ye well 6. Cal. of March. Carthage.    

CHAP. II. Extreme proceedings of Hunricke against the Bishops.  
AFTER these lamentable edicts, farced with intoxicate poison, he willeth all the Bishops which were assembled at Carthage (whose Churches, houses, and substance he had already seized) to be despoiled in their lodgings, and so driven out of the Town gates. Neither servant, nor beast, nor garment to change, was left them. It was farther more forbidden, that any man should harbour any one of them, or give them susteynance. And who so should attempt for pity to do the contrary, he with all his family should be brent by fire. Prudently did the Bishops, who were then cast forth, in that (though begging) yet they departed not from thence. For had they gone their ways, not only should they never have been recalled: but they would have belied them (as they did) that they shunned disputation; especially because when they should have returned, their churches had no goods left, all being rifled. While therefore the Bishops lay round about the walls in the open air, it fell out so, that the wicked Tyrant went forth towards the fishpondes, whom they thought good to meet in the way, saying: Why are we so afflicted? For what evils committed suffer we this? If called to dispute, why are we spoiled? why are we slandered? why are we deferred, and driven to remain amongst the dunghills here without in the Country, afflicted with hunger and nakedness, far from our Churches and houses? Whom he beholding with a fell regard, before he heard their complaint, willed the horsemen with full course to ride over them, that by such violence they might not only be trampled upon: but be slain outright. Many of them were then sore crushed, especially aged men. Then to the men of God was it commanded to present themselves, and meet him at the Temple of Memory, unwitting what treachery was there prepared.   

CHAP. III. A fraudulent oath is proposed to the Bishops.  
THITHER when they came, in a writing delivered unto them, was this serpentine subtlety enclosed. Our Lord King Hunricke, although lamenting your obstinacy, refusing as yet promptly to obey his will, and to become of the same religion where of he himself is, being now in purpose to deal graciously with you, will (if you swear unto the contents of this paper) send you to your Churches and houses. Hereunto answered the Bishops with one voice: We say still, as we have already said, and will ever say: Christians we are, Bishops we are; we hold the Apostolical and only true faith. A little silence having ensued after confession of their faith, the kings commissioners proceeded hastily to extort an oath from the Bishops: whereupon the blessed men Bishop Hortulane, and Bishop 
⸬ P. F Florentinian.  Florentian jointly replied: Depute you us brute beasts, that we should easily & unadvisedly swear, ignorant what the writing containeth? The King's messengers without more stay disclosed to them the purport thereof, which with colourable words was glossed: for thus the entrapping tenor thereof comprised. Swear ye, if ye desire that after the death of our Lord the King, his Son Hildericke succeed in the Kingdom: and if none of you will send any letter beyond the Sea. This oath if ye refuse not to take, he will restore you to your Churches. The merciful plain meaning of many, minded to have sworn (whereas God indeed prohibiteth swearing) lest God's people might afterwards say, that the Priests by not swearing, gave cause that their Churches were not restored. Others of the Bishops more circumspect, smelling out the guileful treachery, denied to swear, alleging that it was forbidden by the authority of the Gospel; our Lord himself denouncing. Yea and shall not swear at all. 
Matt. 5.  Then inferred the Commissioners: Who purpose to swear let them go apart. Which when they did, by notary was strait enroled what each said, in what City he was entitled. The like was done to them that would not swear. Then were both parties committed to ward, and not long after, the deceitful drift of the oath, which before lay hid, plainly appeared. To those which would swear, it was said: for as much as contrary to the commandment of the Gospel you would have sworn, the Kings will is that you shall never see your Churches; but being banished you shall lawfully receive waist and unhabited places, there to husbandry the ground; yet with this clause 
* *  that you shall neither say Psalms, nor pray, or hold any book to read in your hand, nor baptise, nor give orders, nor 
⸬ Reconciliare praesumatis.  presume to reconcile any man. In like manner to those which refused the oath they said. Because you wish not the reign of our lords Son, therefore you would not swear: for which consideration it is commanded, that you shall be sent away into Corpse the Island, there to hew timber for ships.   

CHAP. FOUR The horrible cruelty of the Heretics: the constancy of Dionysia and her Son, with others.  
THE Beast thirsting after innocents blood, proceeded (during that the Bishops were not as yet exiled) and sent through all the Provinces of Africa at once, his cruel tormentors; so that no place, no house, remained free from lamentation, screeching, & outcries. They spared not any age or sex, but such only as yielded to their will. Some they cudgeled with staves; some they hung up; others they burned. Women (and especially Gentlewomen) they tortured openly naked, against the law of natural honesty. One of whom our Countrywoman Dionysia, I will succinctly entreat of. When they saw that she was not only bolder, but more beautiful also then other Matrons, they willed her first to be unrayed, and made ready for cudgels. Who in her pain cried boldly unto them: I am assured of my God; vex me how you list, only my womanhood diclose ye not. But they with greater rage set her naked upon an higher place, for a public spectacle. Amidst the stripes of the wounds, while streams of blood flowed over all her body, with a free voice she spoke thus unto them: Ye Ministers of Satan, that which you do, reckoning it my reproach, is to me an honour. Moreover in so great extremities, and already now a Martyr; being herself 
⸬ Diuina●um Scripturarum ●cientia plena.  well seen in the Scriptures, she animated others to Martyrdom. By this her holy example, she saved almost all her Country. And beholding her only Son (who was dainty, and as yet of tender age) to be somewhat daunted with fear of pains, chaslising him with her looks, and becks, and checking him with the authority of a mother, she so encouraged, that he became thereby much the more constant: to whom amongst his terrible torments she spoke as followeth. Remember (O my child) that in the name of the holy Trinity we were baptised 
⸬ In Matre Ecclesia Catholica.  in our Mother the Catholic Church: let us not lose the garment of our salvation, lest he which invited us, find not at his coming a nuptial garment, and say to his servants. Cast them into utter darkness 
Matt. 22.  where shall be weeping of eyes, & gnashing of teeth. That pain is to be dreaded which never endeth, & that life to be desired which alway lasteth: With such words as these she made her son a Martyr. For the honourable youth (who had to name Maioricus) yielding his spirit, in the combat of his confession consummated his triumphant course: and she embracing her sacrifice, giving God thanks by mouth as much as ever she could, chose to bury him in her own house, in consolation of her hope to come, that as often as upon his grave she powered out prayers to the Trinity, she might conceive confidence, that she should never be estranged from her son. How many were by her (as I said) gained to God in that City, it were tedious to recite. For how great things her sister likewise, called Dativa; and 
⸬ B. Leotia. P.S. P. F. Leontia.  Loice daughter of the holy Bishop German; and the honest Physician 
⸬ B. Aemylius.  Emelius, cozen to Dativa; and devout Tertius a man famous in Confession of the Trinity; or Boniface the Sibidensian did endure; with what torments they were 
⸬ Euiscerati. i. boweled.  torn: let him orderly declare that is able.   

CHAP. V. Admirable endurance of Maiorc; and incomparable conquest of Victoria.  
WHo can also express, what pains Maiorc a nobleman's slave of the town of Tuburb, did sustain for Christ? who after innumerable blows of staves, was lifted up with pullyes, and being carried through the City in hanging wise, was now hoisted up a fit, and in a moment by letting the rope's ship, lighting upon the slintes of the streets, with the poise of his body, dashed against the stones like a stone. He was moreover often times haled along, and so crushed with the sharp pointed flints, that you might have seen (by reason the utmost skin was rend asunder) the oflappes of his inward parts, hanging at his sides and belly. This man had suffered not much unlike matters, in the time of Gensericke, rather than he would bewray the secrets of one of his friends. How much more then, would he be furnished with constancy about Sacraments of religion? and if he showed himself so trusty to his friend, which only loved him; how much more did he owe to him, who shall fully reward his loyalty?  
What outrages were done in the City Cluse, it is not in me to declare; for the very number of Martyrs and Confessors, it is not possible to recount. One Matron amongst them called Victoria, a true amplifier of her name, as she hung burning over a soft fire in the face of the people, was thus entreated by her ungracious husband, her children standing by. Why sufferest thou, O wife? If thou despise me have pity (thou hard hearted woman) of these little ones, whom thou hast engendered. How happeneth it that thou regardest not thine own womb, & settest nothing by those, whom groaning thou broughtest into the world? Where is the plighted troth of matrimonial love? where are the bands of wedlock? Where is the honest contract drawn long since between us? Regard I pray thee thy children and husband, and fulfil quickly the King's commandment, that thou may est escape the torments yet at hand, and be rendered to me again, and to our children. But she neither giving ear to her children's crying, nor to the Serpent's flatteries, casting her eyes upwards from the ground, contemned the world with the desires thereof. Whom when the Executioners perceived to be dead, after that her shoulders were with long hanging out of their place, took her down fully bereft of life. And (as she afterwards told us) a certain Virgin came to her, who touched every part of her body, whereby she became immediately whole and sound.   

CHAP. VI The resolute constancy of the Proconsul or Marshal Victorian, and his brave answer.  
IN what sort to extol Victorian of the City Adrument, and at that time Proconsul of Carthage, through default of words I am ignorant. No man in Africa was richer than he, and held he was in estimation with the impious King, as one very faithful in all things given him in charge. The King sent him word after a familiar sort, that if he gently assented to his commandment, he would make account of him above all other: but the servant of God gave this confident answer. I am assured of Christ, my God, and my Lord: say thus to the King. Let him lay me upon coals, thrust me upon beasts, put me to all kind of torments; if I give place, then in vain was I christened in the Catholic Church. For if there were no other life then this alone, which is present, & that we hoped not after an other which is eternal▪ yet would I not do it, and for a little temporal glory be so ungrateful to my Creator, which in such sort hath bestowed upon me his faith. At which answer the Tyrant chafed, and with what torments and how sore pains he afflicted him, human eloquence is not sufficient to express, who triumphantly and happily consummating his course, received the Crown of Martyrdom.   

CHAP. VII. A story of two brethren in like sort, tormented with equal pains.  
NEITHER is any body able to explicate the conflicts of the Martyrs, which they achieved at the City of 
⸬ P.S. Tambar. P. F. Tambay.  Tambad, where two brothers of the City of 
⸬ Aquisregie●●●●.  Kings-water, well assured in our Lord, gave each to other their faith, how they would request the torturers, that they might be handled with like pain and punishment. When therefore at the first, hung up with weighty stones at their heels, they had remained in that case all the whole day; the one of them desired that he might be let down, and that a little respite might be given him: the other brother fearing lest he would have-denyed his faith, cried to him from the engine where he hung. Do not so, do not so brother: that was not our oath to Christ, I will accuse thee, when we shall appear before his terrible Throne, since we swore upon his body and blood, to suffer together for his cause.  
Saying these and other words, he emboldened his brother in such wise, to the agony of his passion, that he cried out with a loud voice. Put me to what punishments you will, persist, urge us being Christians, with your cruellest torments: as my brother doth, so will I also. With what fiery plates they were scorched, and with what instruments each was feared, and with what torments they were tortured, the thing itself declareth, in that the executioners themselves did cast them out of their sight, saying: These fellows will make all the people follow, so that no man at all will be converted to our religion. This they said the rather, for that no bluish wannes, no token of their torments any thing appeared.   

CHAP. VIII. The Courage of the Tipasenses: and of them which spoke, their tongues being cut out.  
LET us now hasten to speak to the honour of God, of that which was done in 
⸬ Ptol. Tipasa, at this day Tenes▪ or Tun●●.  Tipas, a City of the great Mauritania. As soon as the Townsmen saw an Arrian, from a secretary of the Court, made their Bishop, & sent to destroy their souls, almost all the City fled into Spain (the passage being very short) so that very few remained behind, such as found no means of shipping: whom the Bishop of the Arrians first by fair means, afterwards by threats, assayed to compel to arianism. But they constant in faith, not only derided his madness, while he persuaded them: but also boldly celebrated the divine mysteries, assembling together in one house. Intelligence received, he secretly sent information thereof unto Carthage: whereupon the King in a great rage, directed thither a certain Earl with charge, that in midst of the marketplace, all the Province being there assembled, their tongues & right hands should be cut off at the very root and stump: yet through the assistance of the holy Ghost, they so spoke and speak still, as they did never before. If any man be incredulous, let him go now to Constantinople, and there shall he find Reparatus a subdeacon, one of that company, speaking (& that eloquently) without any impediment. For which cause he is greatly reverenced in the palace of the Emperor Zeno, the Queen especially honouring him with singular respect.   

CHAP. IX. The incredible tyranny of Hunricke towards his one Vandals Catholics.  
WHo may now in fit terms discourse, & reckon up together the diversities of pains, which by their king's commandment, the Vandals practised against their own people? If a writer attempted particularly to recount the things that have passed in Carthage only, though simply without all flourishing speech, yet would it trouble him to recite the very names of the torments: which to be true, is to every body manifest, & is easily proved. For you may daily see some without hands, others wanting their eyes; some deprived of their feet, many that have lost both nose and ears; divers whose shoulderblades are fallen out of their place by long hanging, or whose heads were sunk down between their shoulders, by reason they were daily tortured, and by ropes had been much wafted up and down in the air. There were which by racking of the ropes insunder, fell headlong from the height where they hung; and with mighty pitch very many lost the state of their brain, together with their eyes: and some their bones being crushed insunder, yielded forth with their lives; others lived not long after. He that thinketh this a fable, let him ask of 
⸬ B. Auius.  Vranius the Ambassador of Zeno, in whose presence such things were most of all put in execution, because coming to Carthage he had cast abroad, that his coming was for the defence of the Catholic Churches. Wherefore the Tyrant to give him to understand that he stood in awe of no man, in those places & streets to be racked (Epidophorus sitting by and raging) before his torments took out 
⸬ Sabana. In Spain this word is at this day current In Greek also Sabanon, signifieth any cloth to mundify withal.  the Chrisom clothes, wherewith he once vested this fellow at the Font, when he undertook for him, which privily he brought about him to this purpose; and waving them in the air, and lifting them up that all might behold it, he is said with such words as these, to have moved the whole City to lamentation and tears. These are the 
⸬ Lintea●●ina.  linen (O Epidophorus, thou abused minister of error) which shall accuse thee, when the Majesty of the great judge shall come: they shall be diligently by me kept, in witness of thy perdition, and condemn thee headlong to the bottomless depth of the pit which burneth with brimstone. These did clad thee, arising without spot out of the Font: these shall vehemently persecute thee, when thou shalt with the rest, inherit the flames of hell; because thou hast put on cursedness as a garment, renting and forsaking the true and holy rob of Baptism and faith. What wilt thou do (O wretch) when the servants of the householder shall begin to call together, those that were invited? Then the King beholding thee who wert once called, and seeing thee to want thy wedding raiment, shall with terrible indignation say unto thee. Friend, 
Matt. 22.  how enter'st thou in, not having a nuptial garment? I see not that which I gave thee, I acknowledge not this to be that, which I bestowed upon thee: Thou ●a●t lost the habit of thy Knighthood, which in defence of thy Virginal body thou waredst. Ten months I covered thee, I drew the sign of my Cross upon thee, I washed thee clean with water, and adorned thee with the purple of my blood: I perceive not my seal in thy face; I see no character of the Trinity: no such can be at my banquet. Bind you him hand and foot with ropes, who would voluntarily separate himself in such sort from his Catholic brethren. He hath enlarged and pitched his lines, a snare, wherewith he hath both entangled himself, and stopped others from my feast. He hath laid for divers a stumbling-block in their way: therefore with eternal shame and everlasting ignominy, I cast him out from my table. While Muritta spoke, Epidophorus being put to silence, was seared in conscience before the day of the fire everlasting.   

CHAP. XI. Banishment of the Clergy of Carthage: the notable constancy of twelve Quyristers.  
ALL of them therefore preparing their backs for strokes, cheerfully went forwards to banishment, who being yet in their long journey, outrageous & unmerciful men came (by setting on of the Arrian Bishops) to take from them, that which peradventure Christian piety had given them for susteynance: when as each of them so much more gladly sung. Naked I came forth of my mother's womb, and naked now I go to exile: for God is not to seek, how to feed his hungry, nor how to cloth us in the desert. Two Vandals moreover, who had often under Gensericke been Confessors, contemning their riches, went with these of the Clergy into banishment, and their mother in their company. Out of this multitude of Confessors (that is to say of the Clergy of Carthage) as they were in their journey, twelve children by the suggestion of 
⸬ all Theu●●rius.  Theucorius (who of a Lector was become a runagate) were to be separated, such as he knew to have clear strong voices, and fit for music, & had been his Scholars while he was Catholic. Quickly upon his information were men sent, and with barbarous fury boys to the number of twelve, are recalled from their journey, all separated in body not in mind, from the flock of the Saints; dreading yet their ruin, with sighs and tears they clasped their fellows knees, that they might not be drawn away; whom nevertheless the rude Heretics, parting with their menacing sword, carried back to Carthage. But though they were dealt with all not by fair means (as their age seemed rather to require) they were found more resolute then for their years; and lest they should sleep to death, they lighted to themselves the lamps of the Gospel's light. At this the Arrians conceived grievous indignation, blushing for shame to see themselves overcome by boys, and inflamed thereby, will them to be beaten afresh with wands, whom few days before they had cut with many lashes. Sores are made upon sores, and the hurts renewed wax raw afresh: yet came it to pass through our lords assistance, that their small age tainted not for pain, and their courage increased, so that they waxed strong in faith: whom now Carthage honoureth with great affection, regarding this Quyre of twelve boys, as of twelve Apostles. They dwell together, they table together, they sing together, they rejoice in our Lord together.   

CHAP. XII. The Martyrdoms of certain: and the evil entreaty of Bishop Eugenius.  
IN those days two Merchants of the same City, who both had to name Frumentius, were crowned with a notable Martyrdom. Seven brethren also, not by nature, but by grace (as which lived together in one Monastery) accomplishing the agony of their confession, came to the garland whose flourish never vadeth: Liberatus the 
⸬ Abbas.  Abbot, Bonifacius a Deacon, Servus a Sub deacon, Rusticus 
⸬ Sub diaconus.  a subdeacon, Rogatus a Monk, Septimus a Monk, and Maximus a Monk: For as then more cruelly did the Bishops, Priests, and Clergy of the Arrians rage, than the King and his Vandals. For every where those Bishops with their Clergy, ran up and down, persecuting us with their sword by their sides, as namely one Antony a superintendant of theirs, & somewhat crueler than the rest; whose practices against us were so abominable and incredible, that they can not be uttered. His residence was in a City near to the wilderness, which joineth upon the Province of Tripoli. As an unsatiable beast thirsting after Catholics blood, he ran here & there, roaring after his prey: and impious Hunricke acquainted with his fierce disposition, would needs banish Eugenius into the coasts of that wilderness. But Antony to whose custody he was committed, kept him so close and strait, that no man could have access; and beside by sundry afflictions, guiles, and pains, thought to make him away. The holy man while he bewailed the sore persecution, and wore out his aged limbs by rough haircloth, and lying on the bare ground, watered his couch with devout showers of tears; fell at last into the troublesome disease of the palsy. At news whereof the Arrian conceiving great joy, ran in haste to the Cell of Gods exiled servant: and when he perceived the true Bishop, through stopping of his disease to maffle in speech, he cast in mind to destroy him outright, as to whom he wished not long life. Willing therefore the sharpest vinegar to be brought that could be found; he powered the same into the reverend old man's jaws, notwithstanding that he abhorred and loathed it. For if the Lord of us all, which came to that end to drink it, when he had tasted it, refused to drink; how much rather should this faithful servant and Confessor of his reject it, when heretical fury pressed it upon him? By this vinegar increased that noisome disease, of which yet afterwards (Christ of his pity mercifully assisting) he became hole.   

CHAP. XIII. The barbarous and vain outrage of an Arrian superintendant, against a Catholic Bishop.  
BY the like banishment and usage of Habet-deum, and other of our Bishops, is easily manifest, how grievously the City of Tamallum, wherein Antony made his abode, might be vexed. For whereas he had, with sundry afflictions given him vexation, neither could make him an Arrian, but found the Champion of Christ always constant in his profession; nevertheless had promised his confederates to overcome him, saying: If I make him not of our religion, I am not Antony: now perceiving that he failed of his boast, he invented thus to do. Tying the Bishop hand and foot with big bands, and gagging his mouth that he might not cry out, he cast upon him water of rebaptisation, as he counted it: as though he could aswell bind his conscience, as his body; or that he were not present by his grace, who heareth the groans of the fettered, and searcheth the secrets of hearts; or as though the false water, could take away such a perfect resolution, as the man of God had already sent to heaven, tears being the messengers of his heart? He then loosed the man of his bands and with semblance of great joy merrily said. Behold brother Habet-deum you are now made a Christian of ours (what can you now do, but consent to the kings pleasure?) to whom Habet-deum answered. Nay (wicked Antony) 
* Ibi est mortis damnatio.  there is mortal sin and damnation, where consent of will is obtained: I stood fast in faith, & confessing it with often speech maintained with open protestation, that which I believe now, & always did. After that thou hadst bound me with chains, stopping the entrance of my mouth; in the tribunal of my heart sent I up to the view of the heavenly Emperors, the acts of this my sufferance, the Angels subscribing thereunto.   

CHAP. XIIII. More of the Arrians tire any, and how they rebaptized people by plain violence.  
LIKE violence was generally used by the Tyrants. For the Vandals were to this purpose, sent about every where, that they might bring all passengers, to be destroyed by their Priests: who when they had slain their souls with that erroneous water, gave them a bill or ticket; that they might no more have violence offered. For it was not lawful either to private men, or to merchants and men of affairs, to pass any where, except they showed a testimonial, discovering the death of their own souls. Revelation whereof, Christ long since opened to his servant john, where he saith. It shall be to no man permitted to buy or sell, but to 
Apoc. 13  him that hath the mark of the beast in his forehead, and in his hand. Their Bishops also & Priests, march about towns & villages in the night season, with a band of weaponed men, and (thieves of souls as they were) 
* B. Despicatis pos. ianuarum. PF. Despicatio ianuarum  breaking open doors, entered in with water and sword: and whom they found at home (some of them peradventure sleeping in their beds) they sprinkled with their thunder and fiery shower, and all at once with Simoniacal cry, called them their Christians: so that they seemed rather to make a May-game of 
* Suae hae reseos aquam. & so hath B.  their heretical water, than a matter of religion. Those of least capacity, and dull spirit, reputed, that by this means, the sacrilegious abomination was accomplished in them: but the wiser sort comforted themselves, in that it could not hurt them, which had been done to them repugning or sleeping. Many did presently cast ashes upon their heads; some did put on mournfully haircloth, because such a change had happened, others did anoint themselves with filthy dirt, renting to fitters the Chrysoms which had been laid upon them, and with faithful hand casting them into draughts and stinking places.   

CHAP. XV. Children taken from their parents: the manly courage of a physicians wife.  
WITH semblable force, was before my eyes, in Carthage, a Gentleman's son of seven years old taken from his parents, by Cyrillas commandment. The mother (all matronlike gravely laid aside) ran after the thieves through the City, her hair about her ears, & the child cried aswell as he might, 
* In P. F. is thrice repeated Christianus sum.  I am a Christian already, by Saint Stephen I am a Christian, whose mouth they stopped, and drenched his guiltless infancy in their puddle.  
Like prank they played with the children of honest Liberatus the Physician: For being commanded with his wife & children to banishment, the malicious Arrians thought it best, to divide the little children from the parents to prove if by tenderness of affect on they might overthrow the father's constancy Separated are the younglings from their parents, whereat as Liberatus was about to shed tears, he was by his wife reprehended, and the tears as they were issuing forth dried up: For in this wise she spoke unto him. And wilt thou (my Liberatus) lose thy soul for thy children? esteem them as if they had never been borne; for Christ will at full be revenged in them▪ See you not, how they cry, & say that they are Christians? What this woman did also in the sight of the judges must not be concealed When her husband and she were imprisoned (but severally that one might not see the other;) word was sent to the woman, that she should now lay away her stubborness, for that her husband had obeyed the King's commandment, and was become a Christian of theirs. Let me see him said she and I will also do as please God. Being led out of prison, she found her good man standing before the judgement seat, compassed with a great multitude; & thinking it to be true which the enemies had feigned, caught hold with her hand upon his garment next to his throat, and before them all throttled him, saying: ungracious and reprobate, unworthy of God's favour and mercy, why wouldst thou flourish for a little while & perish everlastingly? what will thy gold profit thee? what will thy silver; will they deliver thee from the furnace of hell? This she said and much more. To whom her husband answered: what ailest thou woman? what seest thou? or what mayst thou (perhaps) have heard say, concerning me? In the name of Christ I remain Catholic still, neither shall I ever forsake that, which I yet hold fast. Then could the heretics, being guilty and detected of their lie, no longer colour their treachery.   

CHAP. XVI. The voluntary exile of sundry persons: the Supplication of Bishop Habet-deum to the King.  
I Have briefly spoken already of the monstrous violence and outrage by them used. Which many fearing, hide themselves: some in caves; others in uncouth places, both men and women, no man being of their counsel: where for want of relief, overcome with hunger or cold, they breathed forth their contrite and afflicted souls, carrying with them among their tribulations the security of an unuiolate faith. In such plight was found Cresconius a Priest of the City Mizent, in a cave of the 
* B. Quiz●n. P. F. & P. S. Ziquens but Ptol. hath Vuic zan and Pliny Quiza.  Quizan mountain, already dead, & his body beginning to draw to corruption. Seing we have newly mentioned Habet-deum, he came to Carthage and thought good to go to the abominable King, to manifest to him his conscience, which had always been familiar and well known to God. Neither could Antony hold him back for very shame. He offered to the King a Supplication having in effect these words? What have you now obtained at their hands which are fled? or of them which you banished? ye have daily spoiled them of their substance, ye have deprived them of Church, country, and home: you have only left them their soul, which also you seek to make 
* *  captive. O times, O corrupted manners? All the world understandeth it, and the persecutor himself seeth it. If it be faith which you follow, why vex ye the members of the true faith, with so enormous persecutions? what meddle you with our banishment? ley, began to bring forth a duskish, rather than a flourishing hay; forthwith a scalding wind was at hand, scorching it all, and withering it away. For the dusty season under a hot air, chafing all things, had filled every place as with a cloud. All traffic was ceased, no ploughs with labouring Oxen turned up the gritte of the ground; for neither were Oxen alive, nor any ploughs remaining. And of the country Peasants, part were dead the other part seeking their graves. And for as much, as through the inconvenience of the famine, neither buying nor selling were accustomed, nor the earth duly tilled, troops, and in a manner carcases of old people, of young men and maids, of boys and girls, were in every place scattered abroad, through towns, villages, and each particular city, wheresoever they could, and in such sort as they could, and in such sort as they might. For seeing they were become like a naughty 
Num. 20. Psal. 57  and froward body, provoking God's wrath at the waters of contradiction; they felt hunger as dogs, not that they might find food, but that they might feel the Trinity revenging, whom they had so denied. Some did spread themselves over the fields; others sought the secretest places of the woods, searching after old roots of herbs, or of such trifles. There were, which about to enter into their house, fell down by companies on the very threshold, being conquered by famine. The high ways and paths were full of carcases: the stink breathing from the dead, killed the living on all sides. Burials abounded of those which daily deceased, and there was no virtuous ability to bestow the charity of the grave: for famine raging, the living were not sufficient to bury the dead; and they themselves also soon after to die. All men greatly desired to turn their own liberty & their children's, into bondage; but they found not unto whom. Mountains and hills, Streets of the Cities, ways and paths, made one common grave for all, to whom consuming need denied sustenance. The Vandals themselves, whom before the sundry spoils of many Princes, & possession of Africa had enriched, were now most of all oppressed with necessity: and how much the statelier they seemed to themselves, by multiplying Could they well be called by any other name than Barbares, a name importing their fierce cruelty, and dreadful terror? with how great gifts soever ye honour them: with how great services soever ye appeasethens, they know not how to do otherwise, them to envy Romans. And as touching their inclination and aim, they evermore endeavour to blemish the glory and stock of the Roman name: neither are they willing that any Roman should remain alive. And where they are found to spare whom they hold in subjection, it is but for their service that they spare them: for they never loved any of the Romans. If ever barbarous and rude Pagan, cared to debat with us in matter of faith by argument, then will likewise the Arrians heresy come to disputation. But when could it ever observe any reason, since it separateth God our Saviour from God the Father: By fraud and calumniation maintain they their cause: and like a tempestuous whirlwind, with their storming rage, would they turn all upside dow. If disputation by Bishops was expedient, what is to do with hanging up from ground, with fire, hooks, and with gallows? why hath continually the Arrian brood invented such kinds of torments against guiltless persons, as not Mezentius himself did ever excogitat? Against innocency have outrageous furor & covetous cruelty fought; to destroy men's souls, and ravine away their substance. If conference were wished, whereto tendeth rapine of other men's goods; and not only from Priests, but from all the Laity; who rejoiced when they were spoiled, and with great consolation received the ransacking of their substance.   

CHAP. XIX. Lamentation of the Auctor for the misery of Afric: & invocation of the prayer & meditation of Saints, for redress thereof.  
Approach now (I pray you) all ages, all sexes, all estates: approach all ye that bear the name of Catholics; who are over all the world borne in your Father's bosom; who alone know how to impart a true brotherly affection, who have learned of Paul our instructor both to rejoice with them which joy, & to lament with them which sorrow. Assemble together and young men have learned to tread sharp and rough ways: trained up in cloisters of monasteries, they have been led into captivity of the Morions: and her holy stones are dispersed, not only in the higher end of the streets, but even in the dreary metal mines. Tell confidently you may unto her protector what tribulation she is in, and how her stomach is disquieted with excessive weeping. For she sitteth among the Gentiles finding no ease, and there is no man to comfort her. I sought among the Fathers of the East to see who bewailed her, and there was not any. I searched a comforter & I found him not, while in her hunger she fed upon gall, and in her thirst drunk vinegar: imitating the passions of her spouse and Lord: who therefore, suffered for her, that she might follow his steps. Pray O ye patriarchs, of whose stock she is borne, who now so traiveileth in earth. Pray, O ye Prophets, knowing her affliction, whose praise you by prophesy, so long before did sing forth Be 
* Suffragatores.  intercessors for her, O Apostles, seeing to gather her together you ran as swift coursers over the whole world, our Lord reyning the bridle. Thou principally, O blessed Peter, why art thou silent for the sheep, 
* joh. 21.  and lambs commended to thee, with great care and regard, by our universal Lord. Thou, O holy Paul, instructor of the Gentiles, who from Jerusalem unto Slavony didst preach the Gospel of God; advise what the Arian Vandals do, & how thy children lament in captivity. O all ye Apostles, pour forth together your groans for us. Well we know that we are unworthy for whom you should entreat: forasmuch as these calamities which have fallen out for our probation, have not been sent us as to the just is wont, but as plagues for our deserts: yet pray for us your children (evil though we be) as Christ prayed for the jews his enemies. Let that suffice for our chastisement, which hath already been laid upon us: and now at last let forgiveness be solicited for sinful wretches. Let it be said unto the revenging Angel; It sufficeth; hold thy hand. Who is ignorant that our approbrious wickedness procured all this for going astray from God's commandments, and refusing to walk in his law. But prostrate we beseech you, that ye despise not 
* Vestros peccatores.  your miserable sinners; for his sake who from poor fishermen raised you to the height of Apostolical dignity.  
Most mischievous Huneric held the dominion of his kingdom seven year, ten months: then consummated the race of his life by a death correspondent to his demerits. For he putrefied and boiled out vermin; so that not his body, but gobets of his body may be said to be buried. 
* jer. 22.  And as that King long since transgressor of the law given had no other burial than the burial 
* P. P. Ni cas●j etc.  of an Ass: so perished and soon, this (execrable Tyrant) by semblable ignominious death.   

CHAP. I. 
* B. The Passion of seanen Christian brethren. Seek lib. 3. cap. 12.  The Passion of seven blessed Martyrs which suffered at Carthage under King Huneric 
* The 2. day.  6. Non. of july.  
AT tempting to set forth the triumphs of blessed Martyrs, I first implore aid of God, to the declaration of their acts, that he which accomplished unto them conquest and victory, vouchsafe also to afford unto me (although unworthy and undeserving) some ornaments how mean soever of utterance: For then shall I be able to express what is desired, if they for me wretch make supplication unto our Lord. The seventh year it was of most cruel and no less impious Huneric, when behold the ancient enemy, that old & crafty serpent, spitting forth the venom of his threeforked tongue, using for an instrument one Ciritlas a Bishop 
* Ariomanitarun P. F. B. Ariahorun.  of the Arrian-madd heretics, subverting and possessing the mind of the bloody Prince, so to persuade him, that he could not ever enjoy a peaceable, & long continued reign unless he utterly abolished the very memory of innocents, (though nevertheless through God's just judgement prevented by a most shameful death, scraling with vermin he breathed out his ghost) with gory mouth began to pursue the multitude of Catholics, who through all the Province of Africa had multiplied much like what was foretold to Abraham the Patriarch: to wound them by the 
* Gladio rebaptizatis.  glayne of rebaptisation, and to soil with his muddy swarth, the stole of one clean baptism, which Christ washing in the wine of his flesh, & wring in the press of his Cross had perfectly whitened. The Tyrant therefore admitting (as he was both easy to be carried away, and fierce) that serpent in suggestion, began to shake all Africa at once with savage edicts.   

CHAP. II.  
FIrst and foremost he sent parling by inhuman banishment into far lands a notable company of Priests and Deacons: to whom for compassion he commanded to give the 
* Bisacutum.  twy-edged sort of grain which only beasts feed upon; & neither dishusked by the mill; but the branny scorce remained upon it. Afterwards moreover, his madness and impiety increasing most unmercifully gave he commandment this simple sustenance to be withdrawn. Not long after this, willed he yet further, the Churches (
* Per iudicafis venerabilibus portis.  whose gates were in time passed held so venerable) to be mured up stronly with huge morterworks. As for monasteries; as well those of men, as those of holy virgins, he charged to be delivered up together with their dwellers into the hands of the Gentiles, (that is to the Morions.) Semblable was the lamentation of all; semblable entire and full of resolution of dying for Christ: semblable floods of tears trickling from their eyes For our Lord now permitted them to be fed with the bread of tears; and to drink their measure of tears, if not tears without measure. And if there were 
* Gen. & percutian coruorun.  of Ravens some prone to destruction, which departing forth of the ark stayed eager upon the dead carcases; greater yet was the number of happy Doves persisting in the name of the Trinity. How many noble & excellent persons; Lords of ample & large demayn exchanged land for heaven, rendering up both body and goods? and how many tender and noble Gentlewomen were contrary to natural honesty whipped with rods, in face of all the people; and excruciated with sundry torments, ever bare away triumphant monuments of victory? How many young children deriding the inhuman edicts, first despised the world ere they entered the enticing paths thereof?   

CHAP. III.  
IN those days were also seven (as concerning association of our Lord's service, brethren) who dwelled with one heart and   

CHAP. 4.  
SOON came this to the tyrants ears, who drunken with fury, willed them yet more to be constrained by unheardof torments, & loaded with more plensant shackles. Then gave charge that a ship should be filled with bundles of dry fuel; them to be fast bound in the same vessel; so fire to be applied in the midst of the sea; whereby they should be burnt to death. As they were brought forth out of the prison; the multitude of God's people accompanied those warriors of the Trinity, who as innocent lambs were led to be sacrificed; contemplating the weighty and horrid irons; no less than as rare jewels. For bonds these were not indeed to be reputed, but rather ornaments of bravery. With cheerful alacrity went they toward execution, as if they had hastened unto a banquet; singing through the passages of the streets with one voice unto our Lord; Glory in the 
Luke 2.  highest to God; and in the earth peace to men of good will. This is our desired day; more festifull than any festivity: Now behold is 
2. Cor. 6.  the acceptable time; now behold is the day of salvations when for the faith of our Lord God we endure addressed death, that we may not lose the garment of obtained faith. The people also with common voice cried: Fear not O servants of God, nor dread the threats and terrors of tribulations present: die we rather for Christ, as he died for us, redeeming us with the price of his saving blood. One nevertheless by name Maximus a child of their company, laboured those authors of evil with vehement endeavour to disjoin from society of the Saints, saying Why hastnest thou pretty boy unto death? let them go, they are mad; hear thou our counsel, that thou mayst obtain thy life, & go to the great King's court. Whereunto he, though a child in years, yet cried with mature gravity, no man gets me from my holy Father that Liberatus, and from my brethren, who bred me up in the monastery: with them I lived in the fear of God, with them I desire to die; with whom also I trust that I shall attain the glory to come. Think not that you can seduce my childhood: seven souls sith our Lord would assemble us, he will in like sort vouchsafe to crown us all with one martyrdom. As none perished of 
2. Mac. 7.  the seven Maccabees so the number of seven shall church of Celebrina. Thus in confession of the Trinity suffered the thrise-blessed Martyrs, accomplishing a glorious prosecution of their combat, and receiving crowns of our Lord. To whom is honour, & glory, world without end, Amen.  
The end of B. Victor's history of the Arrian persecution in Africa against the Catholics.    
Plame. 146. Our Lord re-edifying jerusalem shall gather together the scatterlings of Israel: he who healeth the crushed in heart and bindeth up their bruises. 
COncerning process of the persecution after the good hound King Huneric had yelped up his last; not much is extant in authors: albeit that it continued outright (not at all times indeed with tenor of equal terror) some 90. years space, as witnesseth justinian in his laws. But good estimat thereof may be gathered by the life of S. Fulgentius most authentically written by one of his own disciples unto his successor Foelicianus.  
THE LIFE OF SAINT 
Suarius 1. die januarij.  Fulgentinus Bishop of Rulp.  
HUNERIC the Arrian King of Vandals, after that Carthage had been by them subdued, exiled all the Senators into Italy: one of whom was Gordian Grandfather to Fulgentius. Which Gordian being deceased, his son Claudius returning to Carthage, although their house had been given to Arrian Priests; yet recovering great part of his heritage, by favour which he found at the King's hands: and departing to leaped, there established his habitation. Fulgentius there borne, was by the diligence of his careful mother Mariana (For soon was his Father taken from the life of this mortality) trained up in learning: and caused to be instructed in Greek before he took ni hand Latin, that thereby he might attain to greater perfection & skill in that strange tongue. So highly profited he in all good parts together with increasing years, that his mother exceedingly rejoiced in his wisdom and towardness: greatly easing by his presence the discomfort of her lost husband; and permitting to his government the ordering of her household. In which charge he bore himself pleasurable to his friends, reasonable to his ●llwillers; to the servants aswell mild in direction as severe in correction; & diligently uphold his patrimony. Being at length instituted the King's collector, and prescribed to be rigorous in exacting of the rated payments: heavy to his soul, began the burden of worldly business to wax. And vain flattering felicity yielding disgust, by little and little the love of spiritual life seemed to take root in his heart first increased a desire of reading & praying: then cast he in mind to frequent monasteries; and beheld by experience the sweet conversation of God's servants. Whom perceiving as they had no worldly solace, so to have no weariness; as no temporal joys, so no vexation of spirit: and withal discerning with what cheerfulness and alacrity sundry persons, yea youngmen, walked the strait way of perfection in perpetual continency; he broke out with himself in these words. Why trau●ile I in the world which shall yield me no future & lasting reward? Although better it be to weep well, then joy ill, yet if to joy be our desire; how much excelleth their joy, who have a good conscience towards God, who dread nothing but sin, do nothing but accomplish the commandments? Change we labours: and as I before endeavoured among my noble friends to appear more noble: so now let my employment and solicitude be among the humble and poor servants of the Highest to become more poor and humble; turning by Saint Mathewes example from a Publican to a Disciple.  
Resolved to renounce terrene delights, and to render himself partaker of that kind of life, which in upright disquisition the arbitrary discussion of his inward thoughts approved & extolled; lest yet sudden change might breed him some annoyance either in body or mind, he put himself into exercise of fasting; and avoiding the company and accustomed compliments of his old acquaintance, and familiars, he gave himself solitarily to reading and orisons: so that even in a secular profession he conversed as a perfect Monk. All those which knew him were stricken with wonder and admiration at his extraordinary carriage: imputing this strict demeanour of a man so delicately brought up to proceed from necessity and privy poverty. When he had now made some proof of such things wherein he conceived difficulties might grow: and well understood the ability of a courageous will provoked and aided by the concurrence of divine grace: perusing (among other theological treatises) the discourse of Saint Austen upon the 36. Psalm, his love of perfection more strongly increased: so that he determined out of hand to effectuate his holy design. It came in his mind by secret departure in unknown apparel to sequester himself: but then reflecting that his conversion, if hidden, would only avail himself; if published, might be an incitation to others: he without delay went to Bishop Faustus a good and godly parsonage (one of those Prelates whom Huneric had confined unto certain places near unto their own country; whereby they might sooner relent) beseeching at his hands monastical habit. For in a little monastery which he had erected, held his residence. The prudent Bishop well knowing the worldly conversation of the young man in time past, gave no credit unto his purpose, nor comfort unto his request: but willed him first leanre to become a less delicate lay-man: and gently put him from him. But he humbly kissing the Bishop's hand besought him very affectuously not to repel him utterly; but graciously to open unto him the monastery door, and admit him for one of his disciples. Importunity declared sincere resolution; sincere purpose deserved credence, and obtained admission. Fame of the thing spreading abroad; some despaired success because of his former daintiness, others considered his excellent wit were raised into expectation of some noble and worthy consequence. divers of his familiars excited by imitation of his renunciation, addicting themselves to the like life, only his inconsiderate & worldly minded parent grew greatly disquieted & frighted. As if her Fulgentius were now dead (albeit well were he dead who so died) she impatienly runneth to the monastery, brawleth with B. Faustus, & crieth out; Restore the son to his mother, the strained here and there up & down by fleeing to hide himself: and Fulgentius had no better shift then to get to another little monastery governed by Abbot Foelix; who not ignorant of his virtue, gladly would have designed unto him: which honour Fulgentius constantly refused: but to take part of the charge upon him, the consent of the company imposing it, he could not stiffly deny. So that these two holy Fathers equal in love of God and their neighbour, equal also in virtue, & like in conditions, mutually governed; each fearful of offending the other, each vigilently attending to the behoof of the covent: but one peculiarly addicted to instruction and institution; the other to ordering the affairs & to necessary provision.  
This monastery being in like sort by tumults dissolved; they passed with their whole company into more remote & unknown parts of Africa; lastly settled in the territory of Sicca, not without great favour of people and no less profit and gain of souls: Until one Foelix a Priest of the Arrian heretics, who not far of preached his perfidious doctrine against the ancient faith, through emulation and spite spurned against them. This fellow, great in power and authority, but greater in malice, growing into fear, least by means of Fulgentius (whose learning now began to wax famous) sundry whom the Arrian novelty had reduced might be reconciled: caused to be beset all the ways and paths of the resort of these two Monks. For Fulgentius though no Priest, yet under habit of a Monk fulfilled indeed the office of a Priest; not by reconciling any, but by wholesome advertisements winning and drawing whom he could to reconciliation. Necessary it was that who had showed themselves such valiant wariours by abstinence, should a little fall into persecutors hands, to the intent that by participating also in the combat of martyrdom, suffering inflicted torments for their faith, they might know and understand how much they had profited. It fell out therefore that these two as they walked by the way, lighted into the watchman's hands: & after apprehension were presently severed, and carried (well charged with bonds) unto the Arrian Priest. Without fault became they in this sort prisoners, and without war captives▪ Foelix at the very first fright cast away from him certain money which he happened to have about him for the brethren's sustenance; committing unto GOD that which only for God's servants, had been reserved. The Arrian at their approach before him very roughly and bluntly demanded why they came out of their country in secret sort, to subvert Christian Kings: Kings terming all such as he and his like had perverted from the faith Catholic. As they prepared to answer and would fain have spoken; he commanded them first to be scourged. Foelix out of his great charity made presently request, that brother Fulgentius might be spared: who (said he) can not well live to endure the extremity of the torment, but will of likelihood send forth his innocent spirit under your hands: let rather your wrath be wholly wreaked upon me; in whom lieth the absolute cause of our action. What I confess I know to be true. Foelix therefore was most cruelly beaten: but not that Fulgentius should escape: Who being of tender constitution, as noble-borne, with much ado sustaining the blows of the staves (as himself afterwards told us) advised how either to mitigate the enraged tormentor, or to gain some respite and ease and cried out, that willingly he would say somewhat, desiring that he might be heard. Stripes and bastanadoes being intermitted, he began with his sweet eloquent mouth to recite cause of his travail into those quarters: giving to the Adversary no small wonder at his learning, and his flowing speech. Almost had the Priest forgotten his cruelty, and shame of the injury was ready to embrace his obdurate heart: yet lest he should appear overcomne with his words, he cried out fiercely: Lay him on lustily, and multiplying your blows rend this prattler: what? weenes' he, I trow, to seduce me also? Incredibly hereupon is he again beaten: and then both of them deformedlie shaven, stripped of their clothes and sent away packing all naked. But unto them 
*  bred neither such nakedness, nor such boldness, confusion: Nay verily by so base an injury sustained for conscience sake, singularly were they beautified. Forth then from the Arrians house departed they no otherwise than as from a glorious combat, and as crowned with laurels of victory: & in their return found luckily the money which Abbot Foelix had thrown aside. Rumour of this detestable fact gave unto sundry no small offence, and namely to the Arrian Bishop of the diocese: who had held Fulgentius dear and much favoured him, while he was yet a lay-man; and was now ready to prosecute revenge of his proffered violence, in case he would seek it. Whereunto when many persuaded him, Fulgentius gave them this humble denial. Lawful it is not for a Christian to meditate revenge: well knoweth our Lord how to repay the injuries inflicted on his servants. If my case be venged, then lose I reward of my patience. Especially seeing it might scandalise many little ones, if I a Catholic and a Monk, should require judgement at an Arrians hand.  
Fulgentius reading the wonderful lives of the Egyptian Monks, sailed thitherwards (accompanied with only one brother) aswell to live under a more strict rule, as also to leave the title of Abbot, & to live again under obedience. Driven was the ship by force of weather and wind to the haven of Syracuse, chief City of Sicilia. Bishop there, at that time was holy Eusalius; who had a proper, monastery, whereunto he frequently resorted, when he was somewhat void from Episcopal cares. In very charitable sort were they by this Bishop entertained: he perceiving the sufficiency of Fulgentius inquired the cause of his voyage; who pretended search after his parents; as loath of pure humility to lay open his intended purpose: (and spiritual parents he indeed sought) Eusalius easily found the feigned answer, and by further questions receiving the true motive, dissuaded such journey, assuring him that Egypt 
*  was in schism and separated from the communion of Blessed Peter: and added Without faith impossible is it to please God: and what profiteth it to afflict the body with fasting, when the soul shall want spiritual comfort? Neither put thou thy faith in hazard upon conceived regard of a more perfect life. At Syracuse lived Fulgentius one winter and though not but at the good Bishop's charity, yet ceased he not of that little studiously to relieve the necessities of others: and winter being past, he visited Ruffinianus, a Bishop likewise but heretically living in an obscure small islet of the Sicilian shore; beseeching his advice also concerning the purposed journey. Of whom in semblable sort dissuaded; he was about to return to his monastery: but better advised would not omit the memory of the Apostbes: 
*  but sailing to Rome venerably visited the places of holy Martyrs: and there beholding the order of the Roman Nobility, triumphant pomp of King Theoderic, & universal gladness of the city; he yet respected not such worldly toys with delight, but by sight thereof stirred up his mind to desire of heavenly joys: giving this lesson of admonition unto his company. How beautiful may the celestial Jerusalem be when terrestrial Rome so glittereth? If such honour be given to lovers of vanity; what glory shall be imparted to the Saints, lovers and followers of truth?  
Returning into Africa to the incredible joy of his Monks, being desirous of rest for love of contemplation, but finding distractions in his monastery by necessity of charitable charge; to avoid the burden and care of ruling others, he privily stole unto another monastery far of amidst the shelly rocks of the sea, destitute in a manner of all human solace & necessaries. Where being received; as much as he passed all others in excellency of learning and spiritual eloquence, so far subjecteth he himself to all in humility and obedience: many books he there copied out very fair with his own hands, and not seldom made necessary implements of Palm leaves. The rather in such secret sort had he sequestered himself into other quarters, for that his estimation was grown to be such, as that the noblemen and gentry employed themselves in a kind of contention who might most gratify him: of whom Silvester the principal man of the Bizacene province bestowed upon him a seat singularly fertile, and most commodious for erection of a monastery: which he gratefully accepting edisied indeed such a place; but more glorious by the brightness of the virtues there resident, then of curious or magnificent building: neither endured he there to stay. His old Monks recovering notice of his abode, letted not instantly to require him: and great grew the dissension; these seeking to regain him, those other to detain him: his own choice was to remain with the later, in subjection: but the former complaining to B. Faustus, he laid challenge to Fulgentius as to his Monk; threatening excommunication to the others if they obstinately resisted. In fine to his old monastery was he constrained to return: where that he should no more attempt to slip away for love of spiritual vacance, they caused him to be consecrated Priest.  
Sundry Cities wanting Pastors (for the King's authority had prohibited Bishops to be any more ordained) many of them sought and laboured to have Fulgentius for theirs, & elected him outright. Secure nevertheless held he himself by reason of the prohibition; until such time that the Bishops which yet survived decreed 
*  that contrary to the King's commandment and order, Bishops should be ordained in all places vacant: for than hid he himself, nor would be found. According as the Bishops had defined, were there out of hand, in all haste (lest advertisement should over soon arrive at the King's ears) worthy Priests and Deacons every where taken, blessed and consecrated: 
*  Only Fulgentius who was most of all sought for, no where appeared. All solemnities of consecration being past, returned he, & discovered himself, well hoping now to be safe. But otherwise disposed God; For by great hap the city Ruspae remaining as yet unfurnished, the citizens getting incling of his discovery came unto him, invade him, hold him, carry him with them and not request but constrain him to be their Bishop. In which prelacy and dignity he nothing forgot the integrity of his former state, neither gave over to be a monk. Mean and simple attire he used, often went barefoot; wholly abstained from flesh, oil, and wine: in no place would he be without company and presence of some monks of his. Shortly after ensued that which was before well enough foreseen to be a likely consequent; but contemned in respect of the church's necessity and destitution: that is, that the King exiled threescore Bishops and more into Sardinia: among them this holy Saint, who gladly mounted the commanded vessel, rejoicing that he had a part in such a glorious confession. divers of his monks and clergy followed him: and arriving into Sardinia, at Calaris began he a kind of monastery: For the Clerks and Monks lived together at the same table & in the same house: only the Monks more strictly possessed nothing, in propriety. And hereby his sermons converted he many to monastical life.  
Among the crafty fetches and persecutory drifts of King Trasamund, whereby he endeavoured to allure Catholics▪ unto the Arrian inventions, he feigned desire of becoming a Catholic: and proposing divers foolish & deceitful questions pretended that he could not find any man sufficient to answer him: Hearing therefore of Fulgentius he hastily sent for him. Who with good courage coming to Carthage, seriously confirmed the Catholics in their faith: and with great pleasantness of speech, and gladness of cheer, he answered to all questioners, rejecting no man: so that sundry already rebaptized he reclaimed from their error, & reconciled them, instructed them to lament their fall; others he exhorted not to lose their souls for temporal commodities: and whom he saw at the pinch of perdition, with mild words he so stayed and animated to a noble & generous resolution, that they were ashamed, and sorrowfully repenting, desisted to accomplish the Fiends suggestion. Certain also by him established, who before were tottering, letted not with great confidence to reprove the weak-grounded impudence of the Arrian party. Thus turning the Omnipotent of heaven his enemies devise to his proper glory. After this champion of Christ had stood in the Prince's sight, he was by him both found and acknowledged to be every way answerable to the report which went of his wisdom and learning: and certain difficulties were proposed unto him shortly to be by him answered by writing. Which answer being framed, was first by the learnedst Catholics conferred upon, & then brought to the people's knowledge before that it was delivered up. The King perusing the same with great attention; praised his wisdom, wondered at his eloquence, commended his humility: yet was not worthy to understand the truth. Not long was his stay in Carthage: for the Arrians clamorously incensed the King, complaining that Fulgentius had already reconciled some of their Priests, that the people fell apace unto him, and that their whole religion stood in hazard. By whose importunity the King committed him again into Sardinia. Late in the night was he brought a board the ship, that his departure might be for the present concealed from the people: but by contrary winds so long was he delayed upon the shore, that during many days together, almost all the city came to him & taking their farewell communicated at his hands. Great lamentation arising at his departure, he told to luliates a marvelous devout man (whose sorrow among the rest was most extreme) both that he should shortly return, and the Church obtain peace: desiring him to keep it secret. So great was his humility, that he never was delighted with doing miracles, neither desired that grace. Requested to pray for others necessities, he usually received these words: Thou knowest (O Lord) what is our soul's health, grant of thy mercy unto our necessity as far forth as shall not hinder our spiritual profit. Whatsoever he by prayer so obtained at God's hands, he imputed it to their faith, saying God had granted it to them, not to him. He was wont to say that Miracles make not a man just and righteous, but famous.  
Returning again to Sardinia he began a fresh foundation of a new monastery, assembling some 40. Monks or upwards, teaching them principally to observe exact and precise poverty; often and sundry times putting them in mind, that no Monk was he, whosoever desired property in any thing: and that why one Monk should far better than his company, there may perhaps be just reason through special infirmity: but to challenge propriety was an evident sign of a proud will and covetous desire. To whom he any thing more distributed than to the rest, he willed them to be the more humble, saying. Who taketh of the common so much, becometh debtor to all: which debt only humility ought to pay. He gave to every one what their need or manifest reason required; but if any presumed to ask, he denied it although there were happily good cause. For (said he) Monks ought to content with that which is given them: and they which ask; be it that they need it, yet are they in bondage to carnal desires: and have not their mind perfectly set upon heavenly things; seeing what they cannot give by worldly bargaining & business, they labour to purchase by petition. Very pleasing was it unto him, if any of the brethren proposed a hard question: and gladly heard he the doubts of any brother were he never so simple; neither would he for weariness or tediousness cease to yield them reason until they confessed themselves satisfied. In correction so long would he appear severe, as the necessity of discipline did compel; remaining, even when he seemed most displeased and angry, nothing at all in mind troubled or disquieted.  
Trasamund the King taken away by death, Hilderic succeeding yielded liberty to the Catholic Church; and recalled the Bishops from exile: and Fulgentius was with inestimable devotion of the Africans every where received no less than if at every place he had been the peculiar Bishop. With lights, lamps, tapers, and boughs they met him: with whom rejoicing he now rejoiced, as before with them lamenting he had lamented. So inflamed was the devotion of people, that a shower happening, they with their garments held hollow over his head as by a tabernacle, sheilded him from the rain. Enjoying his proper Sea, yet liked he still to reside among the monks; and in the monastery made himself subject to Abbot Foelix: & whereas in all great matters of the diocese his authority and advise was sought, yet within the monastery in every thing, were it never so small, would he be ruled by 
*  Foelix. Most of his clergy chose he out of the monastery, to increase love & amity in time to come between the Clergy and monks. He prescribed to his Clergy to hold their houses near unto the Church,, to dress each his gardayn with his own handy labour, to have a singular regard of prononcing & singing well.  
In the Council of Vincense being by sentence of all the Bishops preferred in place before B. Quodvultdeus, who claimed the pre-eminence to his proper sea: the devout Father would not for the present disprove the judgement of the Council; but at the next Council he made supplication that B. Quodvultdeus might be recited and set before him; which was granted.  
A year before he deceased, forsook he ecclesiastical business, and the monastery itself: departing into the Island Circina, with a few brethren; and there lived he in a monastery upon a little rock: as fervently persisting in mortification, as if he now began a fresh a penitential life. But by importunity of the people, needing him and complaining of his absence, he returned and shortly fell into grievous pangs of sickness: lying so some 60. days he often cried; O Lord, give me here patience, and afterwards pardon. physicians persuading him to use a bath; Can baths (quoth he) make that a man having accomplished the course of nature should not die? if not; why then induce you me now at my last end to dissolve the rigour of my long-obserued profession? Calling last the brethren about him, he thus spoke unto them. Careful of your souls health (dear brethren) have I perhaps been austere and hard unto you. Whosoever is grieved, I beseech him pardon me: and if my severity have possibly passed measure and due moderation, pray ye to God that he impute it not to me. They all kneeling down acknowledged, and affirmed him to have been always loving, gentle, and mild towards them. He replied. God provide you a Pastor worthy of his Majesty. Then calling for a sum of money, which as a faithful steward he daily accustomed to dispense unto the needy, he willed it all presently to be disbursed: and reciting by memory the widows, orphans, pilgrims, and poor, he allotted to every one their portion. Soon died then amidst his prayers this virtuous man; and famous Doctor of the Church the first day of a new year, the 25. year of his episcopal dignity, the 60. of his life, having written very many treatises, against the heretics; sundry sermons, and epistles. Whose tongue was of such force to move, that the Bishop of Carthage hearing him preach two days at Carthage, could not contain from tears all the while, for joy that God's goodness had given to his Church in those afflicted and comfortless times, so noble an instrument of his glory.   


there for sandy deserts, neither at all, unless they would turn Black-moors. Occasion of which their passage over the Mediterrane, was this. Of the two most eminent personages for martial affairs; and famousest generals of the Roman Empire Aetius and Boniface; this later being by Valentinian the third, than Emperor, placed Governor of Africa; the former (who by overthrowing Attila with his innumerable Huns won afterwards incredible honour, but withal puffed up his heart with swelling ambition) plotted surmises against him; as a destroyer of the province, with advise, that best might this appear in that happily he would refuse to obey, if he were sent for. By letters in the mean spaceful of feigned amity, gave Aetius advertisement to Earl Boniface that he was held suspect, & like shortly to be discharged of his dignity. Whereupon, being presently revoked into Italy, he made answer of express denial: then, to prevent punishment, directed message unto the Vandals in Spain, promising if they would pass unto him, to part Africa with them. Which no sooner had they done, but that to the Earl came commissioners from Empress Placidia, mother to Valentinian: for he having been always before found most loyal, great was the wonder at this strange demeanour. To whom he had rendered reason, expostulating his services and the unkind abuses offered, laid also before their eyes the letters of Aetius, and that they had returned due report of the truth, he was restored to grace. Hereupon, whereas before no arguments neither yet S. Augustine's own * Epistle unto him (which seemeth 
Epist. 70.  about this point) could avert him from conceived indignation; he now promised to do his utmost for dispatching away and ridding the Vandals whose society he now began to detest. And first with many thousands of coin he assayed them: which offer rejected, he met them in battle but received an utter overthrow at their hands. Divine vengeance overtook yet Aetius after certain years; for attempting extraordinary greatness he was by the Emperor prevented and put to execution. Genseric who performed this invasion was but base son to Godegiscus, 
Procopi.  though being a warrior he prevailed to exclude from the regiment his younger brother Gonthar the lawfully begotten heir, and lastly made him from life.   

CHAP. II.  
TOuching the precise time of those things, which B. Victor mentioneth; 
* In chro.  Prosper who was bred up under S. Austen noteth in his chronicle, that the Vandals crossed into Afric during the consulship of Hierom and Ardaburius, which fell in the year of our Lord 427. insinuating that the siege of Hippo with the death of the famous Doctor was 3. or 4. year after: that in the year 435. peace was made with the Vandals, the region about Hippo being yielded them to inhabit: and by him it seemeth that in the year 437. it was, that Genserich persecuted and chased the Bishops of his province, depriving them of their church, because they refused to become Arians, and embrace that religion which he prescribed them to admit. But unto the Vandals savage proceedings may (besides the words of Victor this more pathetical description of the first attempts set down by Bishop Possidius another of Austin's disciples, yield no ungrateful light. In short time after, through the will and 
Possidius in vita Aug.  power of God, it came to pass, that a huge band, well armed with sundry weapons, well exercised in wars, of inexorable enemies (Vandals, and alan's, associated with the people of Goths, as also persons of sundry other nations) disborded itself by ship, out of the parties of Spain on the other side the sea, and rushed upon Africa: and piercing through all Mauritania, even unto our provinces, raging with all cruelty & atrocity, by spoiling, slaughter, and sundry torments, by firing and other mischifs, as innumerable, so unspeakable, destroyed whatsoever came in their way: sparing neither sex nor age; neither the Priests or ministers themselves; neither the very ornaments, furniture, or aedifices of Churches. This most fierce proceeding, and hostile depopulation, that man of God Austen did feel done, and ponder to be done, not as other men did, but more deeply and profoundly considering the same; and therein principally regarding before hand the dangers yea deaths of souls, more than ordinarily was wont; Tears became his food both day and night (
* *  for who addeth understanding addeth grief: and an intelligent heart is as a corrosive vermin to the bones) so that most bitter and above others moornfull led he in patience the last act both of his old age and life. For already saw this man of God the cities together with their buildings utterly subverted the inhabiters of villages some of them extinguished by their deadly enemies, others of them chased away and scattered abroad: the churches destitute of Priests & ministers; the holy Virgins also, and 
*. a. Quoscunque continentes.  what men soever professed continency, every where dispersed of these, part to have died by torments, part to have been slain by the sword; part the integrity of mind, body, & of faith being quite lost in captivity, after an evil and hard sort▪ to serve their enemies. He perceived likewise the hymns of God, and laudes to have perished from the churches; church buildings in very many places wasted by fire; the solennities which unto God are due vanished out of their proper places: 
*. b. Sacrisicia.  sacrifices and sacraments divine either not sought for; or not easily the person found who might impart them to the seeker: of those who fled into the mountain forests, & rocky caves, or dens, or else fortresses, of what sort soever; certain to have been surprised and slain, the rest disfurnished and deprived of necessary sustentations thereby to pine through hunger: the governors moreover 
c  themselves of the churches, and 
* Clericos.  those of the clergy who happily had by God's grace either not lighted upon them, or else escaped their incursions, spoiled of all things and made bare, in most poor plight to beg relief. Scarce three among innumerable churches saw he now remaining, that is of Carthage, Hippon, and Cirta; which by special benefit of God were not subverted; & the cities of these stand permanent as furnished both by divine & human aid: albeit Hippon after his death emptied of indwellers was by the adversaries fired. amidst which evils comforted he himself with the sentence of a certain wiseman saying. No great thing shall it seem that timber and stones fall; and that men which are mortal must die: all these accidents, he (as deeply wise) with plentiful tears daily lamented. Augmentation finally gave this also to his moornfull lamentations that those foes came in like manner to besiege the said city of the Hipponenses 
* Regiorum, al. regionum.  Regij, which until then held her former state. Forasmuch therefore as in defence thereof was constituted one Earl Boniface, he who sometime had been confederate of the Goths army; their siege continued about the city almost 14. months: the benefit of the sea shore being withal cut of. Thither had we also from the neighbouring territory, together with other our associate Bishops, betaken ourselves by flight; and there remained during the whole siege. Where very often we had mutual talk concerning these misfortunes: and considered the dreadful judgements of God laid now before our eyes: saying; Just art thou O Lord, and rightful is thy doom. And altogether grieving, groaning, and shedding tears, we besought the Father of mercies, and God of all consolation, that he would be pleased to relieve us from this tribulation. And it happened that sitting with him at table, & intercourse of speech passing, he began to say in our presence; Ye shall understand, that at this present of our calamity, I ask of God, that either he vouch safe to free this city so by foes environed: or in case it otherwise seem good unto him, then to enharden his servants with courage to endure his pleasure; or at leastwise to take me unto himself, out of this world. By which saying of his being instructed from thence forwards together with him, and with our several companies, and those which inhabited the same city, of the highest God we required the like. Behold then, the third month of the siege, took he his bed, travailed with fevers; and began to be exercised with his last sickness. Neither surely did our Lord defraud his servant of the fruit of his prayer: for both to himself, 
* For the Vandals through famine left the siege. Proc.  and to the city, he in season obtained what before he had with wet prayers earnestly sued for.   

CHAP. III.  
HEreunto may be added, that Carthage as is gathered out of Prosper was by Genseric, impudent violator of the concluded peace, fraudulently surprised in the year of our Lord 439. & that 15. years for conscience sake, like favour from heaven to have been found. Neither may I let pass, that Africa as most other regions scourged of God might (it seemeth) not untruly cry out, Before I was abased I sinned: for 
Psal. 118.  so far was it run in diliciousnes and looseness, that in Carthage (as bitterly lamented 
* Lib. de provid.  Saluian Bishop of Massilia at the very same season) might be seen men of more discipline and severity in life to be hissed at in the streets, as if they were wonders, or monsters; not doubting to pronounce thereof, That the passage of the Vandals into Africa was not to be imputed unto God's rigour, but to the Africans wickedness; & 
* Lib. 3. cap. 19  Victor himself acknowledgeth no less. Add we this also out of Procopius, that for better custody of the purchased prey were ordained in ambushes and places fit for guard, both Vandals and Alans under no fewer leaders than fourscore; whom they termed Chiliarches (
* Lib. 1. cap. 8.  Victor Millenarians) that is, Captains of thousands. Whereby the army consisting of but 50. thousand gave show of 80. thousand. Whereas also at the beginning Vandals only and alan's were held in roll; yet admitted in time were other also of barbarous nations; passing all under the name of Vandals, except 
* Maurusijs.  Moors only, who at the last were in like manner received into the army   

CHAP. V.  
THree tragical acts having been by B. Victor of Utica so represented, as that we have not only heard, but in a manner seen with our eyes, what can not but make pious hearts to bleed: & a forth act being also performed, wherein some qualification and hope of better times began to appear: it shall not (I know) be ungrateful to all Christian ears, if I exhibit the last accidents of this veritable history; to which the Omnipotent himself gave a gladsome 
* Conclusion.  catastrophe. Nay I may not be so harsh to their patient & compatient hearts, who have sorrowfully (though not tediously) through passed the rueful relations; as to defraud them of the consolatory part remaining behind. So to do where impiety; at least, a kind of inhospitality. And besides the intermediant chances not unpleasant, the final event most delectable to recite; evidently shall it be manifest how a well prepared breast, should in adverse times not be dejected; for that God by admirable and incomprehensible means compassed what we can not conjecture. Compendiously therefore to set down out of Procopius; what he at large delivereth the abstract and sum of things is as followeth.   

CHAP. VI  

* I.  GENSERIC being very far stepped into age, at the time of his death, left in his last testament, among other things this disposition, that the succession of his Kingdom should always pass unto the nearest in blood of the males, and among equal in blood to the eldest. Thirty and nine years after the taking of Carthage, died he: & to him succeeded his elder soon 
* II.  Huneric, the other brother 
* III.  Genzon being before departed this life. Successors to the hound Huneric were first 
* FOUR  Gundabund son to his brother Genzon, who continuing in the steps of his cruel predecessors, afflicted the Christians (so always and no otherwise termeth Procopius the Catholics, excluding the Arians from that honourable name) and by death was to late called away in the twelfth year of his reign. After whom 
* V.  Trasamund took in hand the affair of government: a man far passing his antecessors as well in wisdom, as magnanimity and courage: who also (by a contrary course unto them) not by torments and vexations, but by rewards & honours invited the Christians to for sake their ancient faith, and pass unto his Arianism, but those who would not relent, he no way pressed with punishment and affliction. And with Anastasius the Emperor he always maintained good & perfect friendship. In this man's time received the Vandals a sore overthrow at the * Moors hands, far greater than ever they had in any skirmish before. In the teritory of Tripoli was a General of the Moors named Cabaon, who perceiving the Vandals to intend him war, used this not absurd stratagem. He first willed all under his command to use abstinence in diet to contain from dealing with women, and to refrain from all injury and wrong: then made he a double munition or fortification; within the one shut the women, prohibiting under to justinian the Emperor was this Hilderich, even before he was Emperor; and sundry presents had passed between them. There was in the stock of Gizerich, one Gilimer, son to Genzon (of whom is before mentioned) and next in age unto Hilderich: a skilful warrior, of a sore wit, well furnished with means and every way apt to invade the state; and who otherwise by proximity and age was expected to succeed. But impatient of stay he letted not to thrust far into the interest royal, to usurp authority; proceeded to traduce the King unto the Vandals as a dull and not daring Prince: charging him also calumniously that he intended to resign and deliver up to the Emperor the whole dominion, together with the Vandals. To which surmises credit overlightly given, Ilderich after seven years government is together with Amer and his brother Euagenes committed to ward; Gilimer created King. News whereof being brought to justinian the Emperor: he by courteous advertisement wished Gilimer not so to violate Gizerichs will and testament; nor persist in so open wrong. Upon which message Gilimer forth with put out Amers' eyes, and held the other two in straighter custody: and to second Ambassadors which justinian shortly sent again, he finally answered, that the emperors curiosity was over great to ingest himself into the actions of other Princes; & pretended that Ilderich had attempted somewhat against those of the blood-royal, neither aught to be King for that his cares and employments were not upon his kingdom.   

CHAP. VIII.  
GREAT indignation conceived the Emperor at his tyrannical obstinacy: Wherefore the Persian war (as God would have it) being with good success freshly ended, & Belisarius the great Captain, then present in Constantinople, he resolved enterprise for the liberty of Africa. Some repugnance yet therein he found, for the common people repiningly murmured & objected the Emperor ●●os fleet, that was in like attempt utterly defeated, and the dreadful overthrow given to Basiliscus, whereby perished an entire army, & the common wealth became extremely impoverished: they refused therefore to contribute unto this war. Furthermore not the stoutest of the Captains, (in whom lay the hope of well carrying so great a charge) but were discouraged, and sore dreaded the greatness of the danger: seeing first they had to overcome the Seas, than out of ships to assault a strong and potent kingdom. The soldiers also so lately returned from the Persian brunts, grudged that they should now suddenly be destined to other unknown people and sea-combates, ere they had once been so much as warm in they own country. None yet was found who had the heart or would presume to dissuade the Emperor, except only john the master of the Palace who with a grave and vehement oration dehorted that enterprise, which upon human reasons he held to be abhorred: telling him plainly that by this journey he should abuse to liberally both the blood of his best soldiers, and the public treasury, and abilities of his subjects: upbraiding that Carthage which he would impugn was distant by land 140. days iorneys, and by sea so far, that scarce in a year should report return of what was done: that if he subdued the Vandals, yet should he not be Lord of Africa, both Sicily and Italy being under those strange nations dominion: happily also by this provocation might he draw wars to his own gates, and to the walls of Constantinople. He besought him therefore to desist from undertaking so doubtful and dangerous business, and adding labours unto labours.  
Much moved the words of john the Emperor's mind; & much remitted he of his former fervour, towards poor Afric. There came not long after a certain Bishop out of the parties of the East, & obtaining to relate unto the Emperor, that which he came for; told him that he had received from God a vision, wherein appeared the Emperor himself; and was sharply by the Almighty reprehended & accused of great impiety, that having conceived the good purpose of delivering the Christians in Afric from the hands of the barbarous, he had afterwards upon no cause forsaken the enterprise: and that God promised the Emperor to assist him; and to bring Africa into his subjection, as it had been unto the former ancient Emperors. No longer differred justinian (annimated by this oracle) but furnished ships, ordained Belisarius general.   

CHAP. IX.  
THe first beginning of good luck to this action was that Pudentius an African, revolting from the Vandals, sent hasty word to justinian that if the army came to Tripoli, he should easily obtain that teritory for that few soldiers were there to resist. Which Belisarius accordingly, by the aid of Pudentius brought to good effect. Presently upon which, Godas in likemaner, one of Gilimers captains, governor of the great Island Sardinia, and by nation a Goth, sent submission to the Emperor, saying he chose rather to serve a just King, than a Tyrant whose commandments were unjust. Towards Carthage were then directed 1000 footmen, and four thousand horsemen: with them 400. Eruls and 600. Hunns all using their bows. The navy was in all 500 vessels, mariners 3000. and of voluntary adventurers from Constantinople 2000 In the seventh year of justinian's empire was this expedition addressed: and Epiphanius Bishop of the city blessing (as the manner is) 
v.  the fleet in the emperors presence led one by one into a ship, such soldiers as had lately been baptised. In this fleet passed with the rest Procopius author of this history, consailor for the wars unto the General Belisarius: and passing by Syracuse he got intelligence that the Vandals, were attempting against Goda, but that there was of the Roman forces no dread at all: in somuch that Gilimer as most secure had abandoned the sea costs, & was resident at Hermione four days journey up into the country.  
Approaching to sight of the African shore, great consultation was had how to proceed. Archelaus (contrary to the affection of the soldiers, who weary of the sea would presently have set to shore) persuaded to defer landing, for that all that shore was both subject to tempests, and destitute of havens: adding that all the towns of Africa, except only Carthage were by Gizerich in time passed dismantled of their walls: for which respects he preferred directly to assail Carthage near whereunto was a goodly haven, & ungarded; from whence their could be no more distance to hold on the left hand; on the right hand kept he the sea: commanding the navy as well as they could to observe the proceeding of the army, and to keep near unto it. In this order marched the army forwards, no faster then after 80. furlongs to a days journey: with such moderation also & discipline, that the husband men round about, hid not themselves for fear, but securely brought all necessaries to the camp and freely sold them.   

CHAP. XI.  
GILIMER upon first news of his foes approach, wrote unto his brother Ammat at Carthage, that he should put to death Ilderich, and whomsoever else of their kindred that he had in prison: and have the Vandals with all the munition of the city in a readiness; that they might in the straits at Decimum (a place 70. furlongs from the city) enclose the imperials as fishes in a net, between their two armies. Belisarius being come to Decimum; Gilimer upon that very day dispatched his brother's son Gibamund with 2000 Vandals, charging them to keep on the left hand, and he himself pursued the tail of the Roman army: meaning that so they should be on three sides invaded. And surely had not Ammat by three hours space prevented his opportunity, enough to do had the Romans found: but he about noon went to Decimum: and (which was as bad) leaving behind him at Carthage the best part of the Vandals, he hastily left them word to follow him to Decimum, and going forward with a few encountered with john, where 12. of our valientest being at the first overthrown Ammat himself soon bore them company; whose death seen, the Vandals mainly flying back stroke terror in the rest whom they met from Carthage; who conceiving the victors to be more in number than they were, turned likewise back: and were chass by john to the very gates of Carthage; losing in their whole number near 2000 persons. About the same time met Gibamund and his 2000 soldiers, with the Huns, in the field of Salt, 40. furlongs from Decimum, void of habitation or trees: and were by them at the first onset overthrown and slain. Belisarius in the mean space drawing toward Decimum, knew nothing of all this which had happened; & sending before him the Captains of the confederates, he followed with the main battle. Gilimer and his Vandals meeting with the foremost; great grew the contention whether party should gain a certain high hill which seemed of great advantage. Fron which the Vandals so drove the Romans, that they fled to a town 7. furlongs thence, (where Belisarius had placed Vliar a captain of spears, with 800. men of arms) in confidence of there being succoured. But the contrary fell out; for these likewise growing into great terror took fearful course toward Belisarius. At which time, if Gilimer had followed his fortune, hardly could the Romans have sustained him, so great was their dread, and so great the multitude of the Vandals. Or if he had gone toward Carthage, he had oppressed john's troops which strayed out of order, he had saved the city; and meeting with our fleet had with no ado destroyed it: But he descending down the hill, at the sight of his brother's body gave his mind to lamentation and funeral. And Belisarius after he had stayed those which fled▪ and upbraided them of cowardice; and received advertisement of Ammats death, with what else had passed, in posting speed he courageously flew toward the Vandals, whom finding unwary of his appraoch, and in little order he put suddenly to flight; the night hindering their pursuit.   

CHAP. XII.  
THE next day passed the whole army to Carthage, but coming late entered not the city: although the carthaginians presently set open their gates, placed cressets & torches in every quarter, & made bone fires throughout the city all the night long. Annexed to the King's Palace was a strong prison; wherein among others, were divers merchants, who had been desired to aid Gilimer when the war began: & were to have been executed the same day, wherein Ammat was slain so near was their life at the brink. The keeper of this prison understanding what had passed at Decimum; & seeing the fleet now drawing toward the port; coming in to them, who since their first imprisonment never heard glad word, but in dongcons hourly expecting death; asked them what they would depart with all their goods to him which would set them free. To their answer to take what he would; he replied, that they should only swear to stick by him in any trouble that might befall him concerning them. Which granted, setting them at liberty, he himself went away with them. Belisarius before he would enter the city, again admonished the army how singular modesty would be expected at their hands, in this so great and godly a city; showed them that they ought to repute all the Africans as Romans; and how shameful it were to be uncivil and rude towards those, whose liberty and safety they came to assert against the Arrianizing Vandals. Entering he mounted into Oilimers Throne; where came before him certain merchants, and others, complaining that the night last past their goods had been rifled by his mariners. The just and general Chieftain, lover of all honesty, & observer of equity, forced Catonymus author of the insolency under oath to bring forth all the parcels stolen; which he accordingly represented; but perfidiously notwithstanding upon a sudden secretly fled to Constantinople with those rapines, where not long after taken with an apoplexy, bereft of his wits, and deprived of his perjured tongue, he deceased in a most wretched plight: At his entrance memorable it is to see the great discipline of the army, and the singular confidence of the inhabitants; for neither was there any ill language given on any side, neither was any shop shut, or any thing not set forth to ordinary sale. Which was wonderful strange in a city freshly taken, & changing government. The Vandals which had fled to the churches; he took into protection, and gave them safety: then addicted his mind to repair the walls which were exceedingly ruinous.   

CHAP. XIII.  
AN old said saw had been in the mouths of the multitude, that G. should chase B. and again B. chase G. which now all saw apparently fulfilled in Genserich and Boniface, Belisarius and Gilimer. Cleared also was at this time another ambiguous prediction, much to benoted: and thus it was. Principally honoured above others, among the Carthaginians, was the holy man Cyprian, whose feast they yearly celebrate in the most goodly temple of the same Saint a little without the City. This church had the Arrian heretics taken into their own charge, expelling the Christians, and driving away the Priests with great reproach. The Africans being much grieved hereat, it is said that Cyprian appeared in a vision, willing the Christians to be of good comfort, for that shortly he himself would revenge the injury. With great certainty expected the Africans this promised event; utterly to seek when or in what sort it were to be expected. Upon the very eve of this Saint's feast was it, that the nany imperial was discovered from Carthage: whereupon the Christians as soon as Ammat was departed against the Roman forces (while the event was yet uncertain of battle) taking to themselves good hope presently thrusting out the Arrians receased the Temple sanctify it a new, purge the superstitions of the Arrian heretics; hang up rich and beautiful offerings, set lights in readiness; put in order the golden vessels and precious paraments, fetching them forth from their secret repositories. The rest of the Christians also when they heard of the good success at Decimum, hastening to the same church lightened all the tapers, and lamps; assisting the Priests to whom the function of all such things appertained. In somuch that the Vandals themselves held so manifest a fulfilling of this prophecy in great admiration.   

CHAP. XIIII.  
GILIMER ignorant how to repair his state, solicited the uplandish of the Africans to intercept Roman soldiers if they straggled, promising for every head brought him a piece of gold. Many indeed of the servants were in that sort slain; whom Gilimer performing his covenant, supposed to be so many men of arms. Neither found he presenter confaile then to send for his brother Zazon (who in this mean season had received Sardinia from Godas) and concerning his hasty return, he sent him a letter, wherein he thus complained: It was not Godas that called thee into Sardinia▪ but the bitter fate of the Vandals bereft me at this exigent, both of thee the Moors most wretched and miserable; they ever after the conquest of Africa kept a most bountiful; went attired in silks & velvets; gave themselves to plays and sports, to music & hunting, to banqueting & recreations. moors chose lead their lives in cottages, where they scant stand upright or can stir, wanting neither Sun, nor snow, nor any other misery of their climate: sleep on the bare ground (the best among them laid but somewhat between) forbidden by law of their country to change attire after the seasons; but a boisterous course ragged weed they at all times wore alike. Ignorant they are what bread or wine is; but, whether it be wheat, rye, or barley, which they can get, they neither grind it to meal, nor bake it, but eat it just as beasts do. This harsh conversation & custom made the Vandals to think death not unpleasant, nor servage shameful. Which not being hidden from Pharas, he by letters invited Gilimer to render himself, which he not without abundant tears perused, and returning answer that he had rather suffer what he did, than what his enemies would do unto him; he concluded with request of a citharne, a loaf of bread, and a sponge. Which last clause was not understood, until the messenger explicated, that he desired a loaf, because since his coming to the mountain he never had so much as seen any baked bread; a sponge, to wipe away his tears; the citharne, to solace his calamities with some wonderful ditty, being expert in music. Pharas' pitying his case, & in him the uncertainty of human condition; satisfied his petition: but more strictly observed his custody and charge. Three months continued this siege; Gilimer no less afflicted in his health than in his heart, constantly yet persisted obdurate, until a poor Moor-woman in his sight had set certain bruised corn, to dry over a hyrdle: near thereunto sat two children; the one Gilimers brothers son, the other the woman's: who grievously pining with hunger; the Vandal first caught the lump raw, and scalding hot, and thrust in his mouth; which the other, tugging him by the hair of the head, forced him, half bitten as it was to deliver out of his throat. Which Gilimer seeing presently conceived it ominous to his own fortunes & upon conditions pacted, rendering himself was sent to Carthage.   

CHAP. XVII.  
OPtion after this came to Belisarius, from justinian the Emperor, that either he should come to Constantinople together with Gilimer and the captive Vandals, either else stay behind them, at his discretion. But he finding that envy, had begun to thrust out his sting against him, resolved upon going in person to excuse himself unto the Emperor. And there according to his worthy deserts received he those honours, which never had any private man since the time of Titus & Vespasian; but only Emperors themselves if fortunately they subdued some whole nation. For at his entrance, before him went the trophies and spoils, with the captives; and he himself triumphing (yet on foot) followed after through the city. The spoils were no mean matters: golden thrones of estate, rich chariots, precious furniture, plate of massive gold, precious stones, silver many thousands of talents: Much of that which had in times past been taken out of the palace at Rome. Among which were also sundry noble and excellent peers of the jews, which of old were by Vespasian and Titus translated from Jerusalem out of the Temple. These a certain jew beholding, forbore not to say aloud, that those things ought not be but where King Solomon first placed them: that for profaning them had Rome by Genseric been sakt, and for the same respect Gilimer by Belisarius overcome. Which speech coming to the emperors ears, he greatly dreaded, & willed all those things to be carried unto Jerusalem for the Christians churches. Last of all followed Gilimer with the principal of the Vandals: & coming unto the emperors presence lamented not▪ but only utred those words of the Scripture: Vanity of vanity, and all vanity. To him & 
Eccl. 1.  to his kindred assigned the Emperor certain honourable entertainment in France: but into the number of the Patricians or Nobility he might not be admitted, because he would by no means renounce the Arian sect. Shortly after was to Belisarius decreed a triumph after the fashion of the ancient Captains. Carried in a silver chair of honour upon the sholderes and Arians; & revolting from their Christian Emperor Rodulph of Austria, have voluntarily submitted to the heathen Tur●k●, and made a league with Hell. God of his holy mercy avert the dreadful consequences, which I have horror to think upon how imminent they are upon our neighbour's necks. Beginning with pitiful ruins of the faith and the detested propagation of infidelity in former age: I am constrained by similitude of causes to dread like lamentable effects in this of ours▪ and thereby with regret & obtestation of public moan, through expectation of public miseries, to conclude the Vandal persecutions: Which otherewise, seeing the Almighty restored to the African church, golden times, aught to have ended in a golden period.    

TWO TABLES. BY THE FIRST NUMBER is designed one of Victor's three Books: by M. The Passion of the seven Martyrs: by F. The life of Saint Fulgentius: by C. The continuation to the History. The last number importeth the Chapter. A SUMMARIE OF THE Catholics faith and practise.  

ABb●ss●s, or Mothers of Nonries'. 1. 8. 2. 6.  
Abbot, 3. 12 M. 3. F. 3.  
Alliluya, song solemnly at Easter. 1. 9  
Altar 1. 9  
Altar-cloathes. 1. 9  
Angels invocated. 3. 19  
Archdeacon, 3. 10.  
Benedicite, 2. 7.  
Benediction of Bishops craved of the people. 2. 7. Blessing of the ships by a Bishop at their setting forth. C. 9  
Bishops. The excellent virtue, charity▪ and a●mes of the Catholic Bishops, 1. 7. 2. 2. M. 2. F. 5. F. 8. 9  
They refuse to deliver up church-ornaments to the officers. 1. 9 refuse an oath unjustly tendered. 3. 3. refuse to exclude from Catholic service such as returned to the Catholic faith. 2. 2.  
Bishops are ordered in dioceses vacant, contrary to the King's inhibition and commandment. F. 6. Bishop received with procession F. 9  
Cat olique. Catholics hold fast this name and deny it to the Arrians. 2. 10. Only Catholics held for Christians. 2. 7. The Church termed Our Catholic Mother. 1. 5. 3. 19 M. 3.  
Character in Baptism. 3. 10.  
Chastity. vowed and professed. 1. 8. M. 2. C. 2 Seek Nonns.  
Chrisom-cloth. 3. 10.  
Christian. Seek Catholic.  
Churches. Seek Saints. Churches opened and ceased upon sometimes through zeal. 1. 9 C. 13.  
Clergy, S. Priests.  
Confessors in act. 2. 7. in heart 27. sometime called Martyrs. 2. 7.  
Constancy of Catholics in general. M. 2. M. 3. singularly, in an Earl solicited by the King 1. 5. in a proconsul or Marshal. 3. 6. of the husband against wife and children. 1. 11. of the wife against husband and children. 3. 5. 3. 15▪ of children. 3. 15. M. 2. of 12. Boys, choristers. 3. 11. of a young boy a Monk. M. 4. The constancy of Catholics was admired and wondered by the persecutors themselves. 3. 7.  
Conversion of many Arrians; and of their Priests. F. 7.  
Cross. Confidence in the wood of the Cross. M. 5. that is in the work performed on the wooden cross.  
Disputation. S. Religion.  
Eucharist, Real presence. 1. 9  
Faith. The Arrians seem to have only an opinion not faith of their doctrine. 2. 8.  
Friars. that is Brethren: (the French word being Freres) 3 12.  
Heretics. Compared by God to Asses, Butchers, Sulfury clouds. 2. 5.  
Their society held pernicious. 2 8. Heresy is a spice of madness or frency. M. 1.  
Hermits, F. 5. 10.  
Hymns, 2. 9 M. 5.  
Lamentation, concerning the persecution 3. 9 C. 2.  
Lector, one of the ecclesiastical orders. 1. 9 3. 10. 3. 11.  
Lights, used at the public service and processions. 2. 5. 2. 7. C. 13. F. 9  
Mass, The solemn sacrifice of Christians. 1. 6. C. 2. celebration thereof, 2. 7. 3. 8. frequented notwithstanding laws to the contrary. 2 8.  
Miracles, in confirmation of Catholics in their faith 1. 8. 2. 3. C. 4. C. 14. C. 10. 2. 7. 2. 9 3. 5. 3. 8. M. 5. By visions 2. 5. 2. 9 C. 8. C. 13. By strangely plaguing the persecutors. 1. 8. 1. 9 3. 2. 3. 17. 3. 19  
Monasteries, are oft mentioned.  
Monks, 1. 6 1. 8. 3. 12. F. 5.  
The sweetness of monastical life. F. 1. Strictness thereof and poverty. F. 2. voluntary obedience. F. 8.  
Nocturns, which name at this day remaineth in the Catholic Matins▪ 2, 9  
Nonns, Virgins consecrated to God, 1, 8. 2. 6. uncapable of marriage, 1, 8.  
Nonries', 1, 8.  
Offerings, & donaries hang up in the churches, C. 13.  
Orders, Holy orders▪ 3, 1.  
Patience, S. Constancy, F. 4.  
Persecutors of Catholics horribly strooken by God's hand, S. Miracles. S. Peter. seek Pope  
Pilgrimage to places where Martyrs had suffered and miracles there done, 1▪ 8. in the end of the chapter, to Rome, F. 5.  
Pontifical throne of Bishops, 2, 3.  
Pope, honourably mentioned as God's high Bishop 1. 8. At his hand is direction & aid sought for the conversion of the infidel Moors, 1▪ 8. To S. Peter was the government of the universal Church principally committed, 3, 19 Communion with the Church of Rome; or separation from it is reputed all one as with or from S. Peter himself. F. 5.  
Prayers, Public prayers by night upon solemn vigils, 2▪ 9  
Poverty, voluntary S. Monks.  
Priests, The clergy of Africa to have lived unmarried it is in a manner manifest; in that not once in so great & long a persecution is mentioned any ecclesiastical persons wife, whereas of laymen's wives is frequent mention.  
Prison, Mass and sermons in a prison, by stealth, 2. 7. M. 3.  
Procession with wax-lights and tapers burning, 2. 7. F. 9 M. 5. (F. 7.  
Prophecy of religion to be restored. C. 13.  
Pulpit, wherein Lectors red and song; as   

Certain voluntarily followed the Clergy into banishment. 3. 11.  
Yookes rifled, prohibited. 1. 9 3▪ 1. 3. 3.  
burial. Sotemne bury all forbidden. 1. 4. catholics buried sometime under a tree. 1. 10. somelime in private houses. 3. 4.  
Bishops confined. F. 2. forbidden to be harboured or relieved. 3. 2 1. 9  
Catholic. The Arrians quarrel about this name, and ungracefully challenge it. 2. 10.  
Chastity. All professors of the continent life are hated and chased away. M. 2. C. 2. a. Vowed and professed chastity is by the Arrians despised & commanded to be violated 1. 8. Sacred virgins shamefully handled and tortured by them. 2. 6.  
Churches shut up. 1. 11. 3. 1. M. 2. fraxed and brent. 1. 1. taken from Catholics & by the Arrians addicted to their Common prayer. 1. 1. 1. 4. 3. 1. abused to stables. C. 6. Church's ransacked & spoiled. 1. 9 3. 1.  
Cle●gy of the Arrians, extraordinarily rage above others. 3, 12. 3, 13. 3, 14. M. 1. F. 4.  
Confining of Bishops to certain place for mansion. F. 2  
Covetousness insatiable after catholics goods. 1, 1. 1, 3. 1  
councils. The Arrians allege false councils for countenance of their error. 3. 1.  
Disputation coulorably offered by the Arrians and violently demeaned. 2, 8. 9, 10. 3, 1. 3, 18. F. 7  
Envy of the Arrians at the virtue of the Catholic Bishops. 1, 7. 2, 2  
Heretics. The Arrians bourn Manichaeans to take from themselves the note of heresy. 2, 1  
Imprisonment is over all.  
Laws and Proclamations. Benefit of law & justice denied to Catholics. 3, 1  
Martyrdom is frequent in sundry chapters. For envy of this name and glory; certain are made deferred to long vexation. 1, 10. C. 3  
Mass● decreed and forbidden. 2, 8. 3, 1. abolished. C. 2. Catholics slain at it, and put to death for hearing it. 1, 9  
Miracles misinterpreted and discredited, 2, 9 M. 5. C. 13  
Monasteries held in special hatred, 1, 1. delivered to the Moors. M. 2  
Monastical persons persecuted, M. 2. urged to break their vow and marry, 1. 8. extremely hated, S. Priests.  
Nonns scattered, and tormented, 2, 6  
Oaths of state deceitfully tendered to entrap, 3, 3  
Persecution. Spoiling of goods, death, and are over all. Occasion strangely sought under pretext whereof to begin persecution, 2, 6. Disobedience and state is still urged & pretended, 1, 5. 3, 1. 2, 7. F. 6. Persecuting in one place they of policy abstained in another, 1. 6: and sometimes mitigated for ostentation of clemency, 2, 1. God's honour, zeal of justice & clemency also are pretended, 2, 8. 3, 1. The civil laws ordained by ancient Emperors against Heretics are retorted upon Catholics, 3, 1. Catholics making supplication are worse entreated, or fruitless, 1, 4. 3, 2. 3, 1 6: fly over sea, 1, 7. 3, 8: fly into deserts, 3, 1 6: they are thrust to day-labour▪ 1, 1. 2, 3. 3, 3: they are pined, 2, 7. 3, 2. M. 2. deprived of their dignities and foe bidden to bear office, 1, 6. 2, 6. Enticing allurements and promises, to pervert, M. 3. M. 4. C. 6  
Prayers: Catholic service and prayer countermanded▪ 1, 6. 3, 3. The Arrians urge that public prayers should be admitted in any language indifferently. 2, 2  
Priests used with all rigour, 1, 4: banished, and horribly used: M. 2. S. banishment▪ Spoilt of their substance, and terribly entreated, C. 2. Maliciously slandered of incontinency, 2, 6. Punishment inflicted for receiving a Monk from beyond the sea: 1, 6  
Proclamations against catholics, 2, 8. 3, 1  
Reconciling by the sacrament of penance, forbidden, 3, 3  
Resort mutual of Catholics is forbidden, 1, 11  
Rites ecclesiastical abolished. C. 2  
Rome. Peculiar malice of the Arrians against the sea of Rome, 1, 7. They surname Catholics, Comans, 1, 10  
Sacrament of Christ's body and blood irreverently cast under foot, 1, 9  
Scripture. The Arrians provoke to it alone, 2. 8  
Searches by night, and ransacking of houses, 3, 15  
Torments: 3, 4: 5: with cords, 1, 1: hotyrons, 1, 6. 2, 6. 3, 7: stocks: 1, 8: whipping & beating: 1, 7. 34. 3, 11. 1, 8: F. 4: hanging by the heels: 1, 10: 2, 6: maiming and dismembering the body: 3, 8: 3, 9  
Watch & ward to apprehend Catholics: 3, 15: F. 4  
Women uncivilly and unshamfastly used: 2, 6: 3, 4: M. 4    

Faults escaped.  

Fol. 9 read Merely was my aim to show▪  
f. 10. read licentious  
f. 15. read barbarous  
f. 20 read but for singula  
f. 30. read made of stubbed palms  
f. 40. read such as are  
f. 52. read burned in  
f 65. read larger sense  
f. 75. read whivering font.  
f. 83. read true counsels  
f. 114 read Emperor.  
f. 119. read he farther came to Carthage  
f. 123. read no ability  
f. 127. read mothers P. F  
f. 128. read toucheth us  
f. 132. The passion of the 7. martyrs is distinct by itself & no partt of the 3. book.  
f. 133. read rebaptizationis  
f. 134. read serpentine  
f. 137. read us none  
f 138. read peasant  
f. 143. read Rusp. Surius  
f. 149. read heritage  
f. 153. read baldness.  
f. 155. read Eulalius  
f. 156. read shelty  
f. 168. read Visigothes  
f. 169. read seemed they and the like discover  
f. 172. read Hieron.  
f. 179. blot out 180.  
f. 209. read Carried.  
f. 211. read large and  
f. 212. read moan.