●●●●●SOR THE LEARNED AND VICTORIOUS King that conquered Spain.  
His Life and Death published By ROBERT ASHLEY Out of the Library of the University of OXFORD  Seneca. 
Otium tuum non emineat: sed appareat.  
LONDON Printed for john Parker. 1627.   

TO OUR GRACIOUS SOVEREIGN King CHARLES.  
THis brief History of the life and death of jacob Almansor: the Victorious, was intended to the now deceased; yet ever renowned for Learning, and worthily styled jacobus Pacificus, your Royal Father. The death of some who had undertaken the Printing; and the general Visitation of this your Realm with sickness, hath delayed the publishing, and altered the design of the Dedication.  
The Wandering Ghost of this Learned, Virtuous and Victorious Almansor who never suffered repulse, being now come into England, and clad with an English garment presseth into your Kingly presence, and expecteth condign entertainment. Though the Story be ancient, and your Time and Religion also from his much different▪ yet he hopeth that Virtue and Valour are never out of season: Nor the Wisdom and Industry of any, be he Heathen, Mahometan, or Christian, to be disesteemed.  
As Alexander was inflamed with the example of Achilles, who lived long before him: Caesar by that of Alexander of a different time and Nation; the one being a Grecian King of Macedon: the other but a private Gentleman of Rome: and Scipio a young Roman that triumphed over Africa, was animated by the History of Cyrus the great King of Persia described by Xenophon. So if at this day among Christians, they that have any heart, are enkindled in their courage, when they read of the Clemency of Caesar, the Magnanimity of Alexander, the Integrity of Aristides, the Constancy of Cato, or the Iusti●e and Goodness of Traian, being but Heathens of former Ages, that knew not Christ, nor Christian Piety: with more reason Almansor of much later Age, though a misbelieving Mahometan may well expect, even in these times, among the professors of perfect Piety, his Virtues should not be unregarded; nor his well ordered life and death be buried in oblivion.  
I leave them that list to dispute the truth of his History; or whether it be not a pattern of Perfection devised: as many have supposed the like of Cyrus, described by Xenophon. Howsoever the Truth be; I hold the one and the other of better use, being thus published, then to be buried in silence.  
I doubt not but your Royal Father's Instruction, and your own worthy disposition hath figured in your noble breast many worthier Christian patterns for Imitation: Yet by comparing ourselves with Heathens, with Infidels, with Mahometans, and other Misbelievers; we attain the better and clearer knowledge of our advantages and defects. Hereof your adventurous Travails in your younger years have given you good experience▪ He that knoweth no Country but his own, knoweth not the worth or wants of his own: Commendandus ante omnes qui sapientiam toto orbe requirit saith Marsilius: which opportunity of personal Travail being not always permitted; it must be supplied by Books and Histories. The advertisement following will inform the particulars how this brief History came to the Presenters hands, who remaineth  
In all humility, your Majesty's devoted Subject, Robert Ashley.   

An Advertisement.  
Having during my younger years had some training in the Arts, and Learned Languages in the famous University of Oxford: and by advice of experienced friends having after seriously sought to attain the knowledge of the Laws under which we live, in the place where they are professed: and having been long since engaged and denominated among the Professors thereof: yet finding the practice to have ebbs and tides; (as have for the most part all other humane employments) I have stolen and snatched at vacant times some opportunities; what by Travail, Books, and Conference; to get some knowledge of foreign Countries, and vulgar Languages: especially those of our Neighbours (I mean the French and Dutch, the Spanish and Italian) that by the perusing of their Writings, I might also be made partaker of the Wisdom of those Nations: having been long of this opinion. That as no one soil or territory, yields all fruits alike, so no one Climate or Region affordeth all kind of knowledge in full measure.  
With this resolution, being not letted by other occasions, I spent the best hours of some few Weeks, not many years sithence in a superficial survey of the famous Library of that flourishing University, where I had been trained: which I found richly replenished with Books of all Sciences and Faculties: not only in the Learned Languages, Latin, Greek, and Hebrew: (besides the vulgar Tongues of our Neighbour Nations) but even with some furniture as well of Manuscripts as of printed Copies in the Arabian, Aethiopian, and Armenian Languages; with the Egyptian Wisdom and Characters (not speaking of the , and Syriak; because they are accounted by many but as Hebrew-dialects). There are also some Turkish & Persian Manuscripts; Indian, Malayan, and Mexican Characters and Writings. Yea, China itself (being thought by many to be inaccessible to Strangers) though by sundry Seas and Lands it be fare separated from us, hath vouchsafed to enrich this great Magazine, or Storehouse of Learning, with diverse and sundry parcels of her Wisdom imprinted in her strange Characters.  
Amongst the rest I happened on an Arabian History concerning the loss of Spain by Roderigo King of the Goths, which by commandment of King Philip the Second, was translated into Spanish out of the Arabian Copy remaining in the Escurial: where I myself have seen a glorious golden Library of Arabian Books. In the midst of that History, I found a summary Collection, or obsernation of the life and death of a Learned Arabian King jacob Almansor the Conqueror of Spain. Of the excellency of this great King, some having heard and read that among other his virtues, he was an infinite lover of Learning, having assembled together in his Library fifty five thousand Books in an ignorant Age: when long before the Invention of Printing, all Monuments of Learning, were only preserved by the laborious industry of the Writers hand and Pen. Weighing also his wise distribution of his time with his exact justice, Wisdom of Government, his Temperance of Diet, Fortitude, and Prudence in his Military affairs; with the Prosperity of his Conquests; and success of all his erterprises: they became desirous to be acquainted, with the particulars of his life; and longed to have it communicated unto them, in a Tongue which they better understood. To their honest desire, having opportunity in my hand, I thought it convenient to give satisfaction by translating it out of the Spanish Copy which was printed at Saragoza 1603. remaining in that unparallelled rare Library of the University of Oxford, and therehence out of the larger History of the Conquest of Spain by the Moors, (being then the Subjects of this Almansor) by me excerpted and published. I present it to public view, that Christians finding their virtuous Industry to be equalled or overmatched by Mahometans may the rather be excited to a disdainful emulation of their worthiest endeavours.   

The Letter written by King Abencirix to the Alcayde Ali Abenzufian Viceroy and Governor of the Provinces of Deuque in Arabia, by which he commandeth him to write the life of King jacob Almansor.  
Praise be given to God alone, Amen. The high and highly honoured King Governor of the Moors, of noble descent, defender of Mahometism, who shieldeth himself under the protection of the most high God, Ali Abencirix: To the Virtuous, Noble, Wise, Discreet, Learned, and Generous Gentleman the Alcayde Ali Abenzufian our Viceroy and Governor of the Provinces of Deuque: we send greeting. And after our salutation, we say that considering the great wisdom with which the King Abilgualit Miramamolin jacob Almansor, our great Grandfather and Lord governed his Kingdoms in peace; and the fortitude with which he preserved his Subjects, and rooted out their Enemies; and the justice with which he conserved his Estates; and the Temperance, used by him in all his actions and deeds, which of all the World are admired; and all the Books replenished with his Say and Sentences in all Sciences; and his notable Deeds of Arms, with his great virtues and good customs to be such as all the Princes of the World may take an example and pattern thereby to rule and govern their Commonweals, and to live in tranquillity. We have thought meet and convenient that the Discourse of his Life should be gathered together, and orderly compiled and written in one Book, (and not be left as it is now scattered in many parts:) as well for our own consolation, as for the Imitation of this great King in his customs and manner of living: to make our profit and use of them in matters that concern our Government and our Commonweals; and to this effect having that regard which we have of your person, ability, and learning, together with your training and continual attendance and service in his Royal Palace from your childhood, being always inward with him, in such sort that no other how learned soever can better set forth and write his life and manners than you. We charge and command you that with convenient brevity avoiding prolixity, and writing the Truth with that obligation which is due to the fidelity of an History: (whereof by reason of your good zeal and punctual manner of writing observed by you, we rest assured) you writ a Book of his life and customs, together with the manner and order how this good King ruled and governed his Kingdoms till his life ended by death: which you shall entitle the bright Mirror of Princes; whereby you shall do us acceptable service. In this Book you shall also do well to set down what especial things a good King is to observe, to make himself beloved of his Subjects, and feared of his enemies. All which may serve us in steed of a Guide or a Light with the favour and help of our Sovereign God for the ruling and governing of our Kingdoms and Commonweals, that they may enjoy Peace and tranquillity; and ourselves quietness of mind and clearness of Conscience. Whereof through that confidence we have in your worthiness we make no doubt. God have you in his keeping.  
From our Royal Palace of Zarbal; the fourth day of the Moon of Mobarram, 
The date is answerable to the year An. Christi 731.  the hundred and tenth year of the Hixera.   

The Letter of the Alcayde Ali Abenzusian in answer of the former by which he dedicateth the Work to King Ali Abencirix.  
Praise be given to our Sovereign God. Amen. To the much renowned and that with reason for hu great skill in Governing, Wisdom in conserving, and Fortitude in maintaining his Subjects in Peace, the valiant Warrior, strong and courageous defender of Morisme, of high and famous Progeny and Race, the great Calipha, the rooter out of his Enemies, the King highly honoured and of complete power, Ali Abeneirix; the highest God continue his good desires. And in answer to his Letter dated in the Palace of Zarbal, the fourth day of the Moon of Moharram this present year; by which I was commanded to write a Book of the customs, conditions and manner of life of his Predecessor King Abilgualit jacob Almansor, and therewith also to set down and declare what other Rules a good Prince ought to observe: for the fulfilling whereof I have stolen from other my great business, some parts of the night bereaving myself of that sleep which for my weak and wearied body had bean requisite; and in these twelve brief and compendious Chapters which accompany this my Letter I have rehearsed and registered the life and customs, and the manner of Ruling and Governing with this great King and Governor used in the time of his prosperous Reign: and I am also of this opinion that without any farther addition of those Learnings which are written by the Philosophers and other grave and learned Authors, one may gather out of this as much fruit as he desireth. I am an eye witness of all that I writ, having served him in his Chamber and other Offices in his Royal Palace, of no small importance, more than twenty years (as is well known to those that frequented the Court in his time) and have seen and known his customs and conditions, uprightness and simplicity, Government and manner of administering justice both in Peace and War. Now in this manner of writing I work two effects, the accomplishing of a Royal commandment; and the registering of the virtuous and laudable moral customs of so good a King. Vouchsafe to accept my good will and pardon my faults and oversights if there be any in this Treatise (whereof I doubt not there may be many) attributing them rather to my forgetfulness, then to any wilful imperfection, carelessness or negligence, either against the fidelity of an History, or the loyalty which is due to his Royal Service; whom our Sovereign God, continue in his Protection.  
From the City of Deuque the fifteenth day of the Moon of Rabeh the first, 
This date agreeth with the month of Angust of the year of Christ, 731.  the one hundred and tenth year of the Hixera.   

THE LIFE AND Death of JACOB ALMANSOR, an Arabian Mahometan King, written in the Arabic TONGVE.  

CHAP. I.  
Of the Descendence and Genealogy of the King Abilgualit Miramamolin jacob Almansor, and of some of his memorable deeds.  
ABilgualit Miramamolin jacob Almansor was the son of the great Caliph, the sustayner of Morisme Abihabdi Allahi Abilgualit Abinque Abni Malique; and nephew of the great Caliph Abni Abel Hasen. Motaleb of famous and high Lineage, 
Solar:  the renowned race and house of the Gentile Kings of Arabia. He was borne in the eleventh year of the Higera, on the second day of the Moon of I●buel; having attained with sound and perfect health to fifteen years of Age, he began to show so great courage and Inclination to Arms and Learning, that he caused admiration in his Masters, who had the charge and government of him. For he was at this age so skilful in the seven Liberal Sciences, that they who were the most learned in them, spoke of them in his presence With much fear and bashfulness, for at every other word he corrected the Imperfections which proceeded out of their Ignorance. And at the eighteenth year of his age he wrote the three books of Mathematics and Astrology, which are so renowned at this day amongst the Arabians. He wrote also the abridgement of Histories, the great Art of Algebra; and the book of the exercise of the military Art, and that which he entitled The Mirror of Princes. At the one and twentieth year of his age he wrote the three Books of Philosophy upon the Texts of Aristotle, in form of a Comment. Notwithstanding, that which was most to be admired, was, that at the five and twentieth year of his age, he spoke eleven Languages, reading and writing them as perfectly as the very Naturals themselves. The King Abilgualit his father being himself a wise man, yet undertook no enterprise without his counsel and advice, because he found that in so doing his affairs ever succeeded according to his hearts desire. This valorous Prince having lived after this manner a certain season, and having ordained a jurgo di canas, and other disports, called unto them the great Alcaydes, who were Governors of his Kingdoms, one of which at his coming presented to the King Abilgualit his father an Alfange, which is a Sword or Scimitar of inestimable value: for the handle was of the finest Emerald: the pommel of a stone called a Balais: 
Tabeli.  the scabbard and chape hilt of fine gold wrought with the hammer: with sundry sorts of precious stones enchased; 
H●ia.  and the blade most excellently damasked. Some of the Alcaydes having seen and handled it from hand to hand, they all concluded in saying, that were it but half a hands breadth longer, it would then be the best weapon in the world: whereat the King Abilgualit was much distasted because he had taken a great liking thereof; and therefore caused the Prince Jacob Almansor to be called that he might see it, and give his judgement thereon: admonishing the Alcaydes, that none should advertise him of the fault they found; who being come to his presence, he commanded that the Alfange should be shown him, who was so well pleased with the sight of it, that he presently spoke these words: This Weapon is worth a City. The King his father replied, that he should look well thereon, and consider what fault there was to be found therein: but he said he found none, the thing being as well framed and wrought as he could desire. Then his father the King Abilgualit acquainted him how the Alcaydes did say, that the Blade was too short. Whereat the Prince taking the Alfange in his hand, said with a smiling countenance these words. To the hardy and courageous cavaliers, no weapon no weapon is too short, and then stepping with his right foot one step forwards with the Alfange in his hand, prosecuting his reason, he said; because with one pace forward it will be made as long as one would desire. This his speech was so pleasing to his father Abilgualit that he presently cast his arms about his neck and embraced him, saying; Certainly my Son thou mayest well seek out other Kingdoms to conquer, for those which I shall leave thee are too few, for that wisdom and valour which the Sovereign God hath given thee: and girding the Alfange about him, he said, that it could not belong to any but to him, since he found no fault with it. This being thus ended, the Prince went down with all the Alcaydes that were present, to play at the Canes, and at other devices in such sort that all admired his dexterity in devising & guiding such delightful disports. The next day with many gracious favours he dispatched those Alcaydes. Which done, he said it were not reasonable to show himself gracious only to the Alcaydes of his Kingdoms, and to leave his poor Subjects comfortless and unrewarded. With which resolution, he commanded all the poor about his Court to be called, that they might also be partakers of his bounty; and when they were come, he placed himself at the Gate of his Treasury, and as they passed by him, he gave to every one of them a handful of gold coin untold which having done, he understood after by his tellers, that he had that day distributed two and twenty Arrobas; 
Arrobas.  and thirteen pounds of gold. This being reported to his father Abilgualit, he was reprehended by him, as being too free, and advised him to stay his hand, lest otherwise he might become poor, saying, that a King without his Treasure is like a dead man among the living. But the Prince answered, that he might rather be said to be dead, that is close fisted towards his followers, because he could not expect any comfort of them in his necessity, and in the day of his distress: and that he was not borne but to do good, in imitation of his Creator, who used so much clemency towards his creatures; whose second cause or Instrument he esteemed himself here on earth; and that none might justly reprehend him in that behalf, seeing he considered that nothing was more certain than death, and that he could carry nothing out of this life but 〈◊〉 poor  or Winding sheet, 
Mortaia.  and those good or evil deeds which he had done in this life, to give account of them to that high most omnipotent God, as to a just judge at the day of that fearful final judgement. These reasons were so agrecable to his father Abilgualit, that considering well the great worth of the Prince, he or dayned eftsoons in his life and Kingdoms such order and course as the next Chapter declares.   

CHAP. II.  
How the King Abilgualit resigned his Kingdom to his Son jacob Almansor, and retired to a solitary life.  
THe King Abilgualit perceiving the great valour of his Son the Prince, jacob Almansor, and that he himself was old, being above seventy years of Age, he resolved to resign his Kingdom into his hands, and to retire to his rest: and resigned the same accordingly, with the agreement and consent of the great Alcaydes of his Kingdom, in such sort, that the Prince jacob Almansor was crowned and sworn for King the tenth day of the Moon of Moharram, three and thirty years of the Higera being then fully complete, 
Aune Chr. 654. jan.  which Coronation was confirmed the third day of the Moon of Rabeh, being the second of that year.  
Having began his Reign and Government, he took also a new habit in his conditions, kind, and manner of Living, which because they are worth the remembering, I will not forbear to rehearse at large in this brief Treatise. For, contrary to that gallantry and bravery which he used whiles he was Prince he clothed himself in the plainest sort that he could device. He put on such a modest settled countenance, that none of those that served him could know by his outward carriage whether he were sorrowful or joyful. In good and ill success his visage was always alike; and he carried himself in such sort to wards those of his house, that the balance was even between Love and Fear; for neither for great service done, nor for neglect or omission of duty, could they know whether they were in favour or disgrace.  
He divided the days of the week after this manner. The Friday for matters of his Religion, in which he was very devout. The Saturday for matters of justice. The Sunday for matters of War. The Monday for the government of his Kingdoms. The Tuesday and Wednesday for his Recreation: and his private affairs, and the Thursday for matters of Learning.  
The Friday as we have said, he meddled with no affairs or business, but went in solemnity to the great Mesquita, 
Eala.  being his Church, in this manner. He set forth from his Palace attended with five hundred footmen, with their Alfanges; two of which on each side of their Captain, carried their naked Alsanges upright, the points upward; & their Captain having his Alfange girt about him, as all the rest, thereby signifying the fortitude and justice by which he maintained his Kingdoms in peace. Next before those of his Guard went two hundred horsemen very well appointed, with their Captain and Standard Royal, armed with their Curiasses, Alfanges, Lances and Targets. near unto his Person went the Alguazil Mayor or Campmaster, after whom the Council of War, than his Council of State or Government of his Kingdoms, and the Cadi or his chief justice. In each of these Counsels he had four Counsellors, the ancient of which was Precedent. The Alcayde that was Captain General or Admiral of the Sea, if he were in Court was before all, next about his Person. The Alfaqui Mayor of the Mesquita being the great Prelate or Churchman, went on his left hand; his eldest Son on his right, and the rest of his Sons before him. Being come to the Mesquita, they went in all to their prayers; which being ended, they returned in the same order to the Palace; where was placed a Seat for the King near unto a Fountain, where being sat, he received the Petitions and Supplications of all suitors, whether Courtiers or strangers. Then he arose, and an Huissier of his Chamber with a loud voice that all might hear, said in this manner. All they that have given any Memorials or Bills this day to the King Miramamolin Almansor our Lord (whom the Sovereign God make victorious) are to repair to morrow to his Royal Audience, where he will render them justice. Then he arose and went to his repast, and a Mayordomo being as a Master of his household, said after this manner aloud that all might hear. All Suitors rich and poor that sue unto the King, are to stay and receive their refection in the Royal Palace, as hath been accustomed. Presently were prepared three Tables of such length and capacity that two hundred persons might sit at every of them. The first for the Alcaydes and principal persons. The second for those of the middle sort. The third was for the poorer, and for the servants of the Alcaydes, which Tables were all furnished with such abundance of Provision, as became the house of so mighty a King. And if there were much people, they took each of them his turn, and were all filled and satisfied. He took his repast always in private, & never in public, though he were in camp. Neither in time of Peace or of War did he use to eat or drink in vessel of gold or silver, albeit he had many, neither had he any Physician to direct his Diet, much less any Alcayde to take the essay, neither more than two servants to serve him at the Table: neither did he eat more than of two kinds of meat. For he said, that if any meant to poison him, the taking of many essays would not prevent his death; and that two were sufficient to serve anyone man; that in time of Health he had no need of the Physician; and that the man that could not tell how to preserve himself from being sick by surfeit of meat or superfluity of drink, was rather to be ranked among beasts then reasonable men. After meat his exercise was always moderate; and about four hours after he went to the Bath, wherein he stayed an hour, and then walked until it was time to retire to his rest. Then came his Magordomo and gave him a brief account of that which was under his charge, and what he had done that day, advertising if there were any notable thing deserving chastisement or reward in any of his household, that he might therein take such order as was most convenient, which he did accordingly with great wisdom and celerity. Then he betook himself to his rest. It was a thing worthy to be observed, that during all his life he ever went to bed before the third part of the night were spent, and always arose before the Sun peeped out of the East: except it were in that last sickness, whereof he died. He slept not by day, neither in Winter nor Summer; nor ate any more than once. He had a Proverb written on his Royal Seat, where he usually sat to do justice, which was writ ten in Letters of Gold in the lesser Arabic verse, which said after this manner.  

Six Excellencies are found in a man worthy to be noted.  
THe first is justice which chiefly appertaineth to Kings.  
The second is Charity, belonging especially to the rich.  
The third is Patience, whereof the poor have most use.  
The fourth is Chastity, whereof young men have most need.  
The fift is Contempt of the World, which is principally seen in the wise.  
The sixth is shamefastness, which is most commended in women.   
Somewhat lower the verse said after this manner.  
THe King that observeth not justice is compared to the Cloud that yields no rain.  
The rich man having no charity is like the Tree that beareth no fruit.  
The poor which is without Patience resembleth the River which is without Water:  
The young man that hath no chastity is as a Torch that dareth no light.  
The wise man that despiseth not the world is compared to the barren and fruitless ground.  
The woman that hath no shame fastness is resembled to meat without Salt.  
Another Proverb he had written over his Bed in like verse, which sayeth.  
The man which consumeth the day in eating and drinking, and in other delights and pleasures, and all the whole night in sleeping: by doing only that which belongeth to beasts, becometh like unto them. Praised be God for ever and ever. Amen.   

CHAP. III.  
Of the manner observed by the King jacob Almanfor, in administering justice..  
THis King Abilgualit jacob Almansor was such a Lover of Truth, that it was not observed in him, either whiles he was a Child, a Prince, or a crowned King, that ever he told any lie or spoke any untruth. He loved always to speak the Truth himself, expecting the like in them that negotiated with him; for he said, that a greater misery could not befall a man in this life then to be a liar, who with more reason might be called the Devil's disciple, then accounted a reasonable man: because there are found in a liar all the mischiefs in the world, being ever unjust, a false witness bearer, a very traitor to the Truth, and such as was not fit to treat with any man, or to look him in the face. With this zeal did he chasten so rigorusly whomsoever he found with a●●e, that it cost many little less than their 〈◊〉, for according to the quality of the offence; some he caused cruelly to be whipped, others to have the tip of their tongue cut off, condemning them for infamous; and that their Testimony might not be received, in any suit or controversy. And if it were to the prejudice of a third person he condemned them to death. For he said that all quarrels and debates, wounding and killing, with all other their appurtenances, were occasioned only of this, that men spoke not the Truth one to another. All his Subjects knowing in what detestation he held falsehood, durst not make any unjust demand before him, or any of his Alcaydes, who had the Government; which foundation being laid, each Saturday he sat in his Seat, in the Royal Audience, and his Cadi or chief justice ●i●ing one degree lower at his feet, with those Memorials, Petitions, and Bills which he had received on the Friday; Having perused and placed them in order as he received them, he called the parties, and they proposing the justice of their causes, in such sort, that every one was heard for himself, in his several pretensions and allegations. The Cadi gave judgement, giving to every one his right: and because they durst not lie by reason of the cruel chastisement in that behalf, besides that there were the fewer causes and complaints, they were also dispatched with much speed, and very summarily, in regard that there needed no proofs but only the Confession of the parties, unless they were matters concerning the value of goods or of a higher nature, in which cases he referred them to his Council, for averring the Truth; and when such kind of pleas were in his Court, they received an end at the second Audience, which was the next week: and if they were out of the Court in some other City they were to be determined within a fortnight or fifteen days after they began, reserving the definitive sentence to himself, if the parties did not conform themselves, or the judges were doubtful therein. In criminal causes he never detained any prisoner above three days; and for heinous crimes above nine; and if any that was poor were in prison for debt, he paid it out of his own treasure, so that by oath or 〈…〉 were averred that he had no g●●●s to make payment. And being so strict an observer of Truth, there were very few Suits in Law, and those also very necessary and compulsory, for he was so feared of his Subjects, that rather than to appear before him for matter of justice, they agreed among themselves without suit or debate, by which means they were so careful to deal uprightly one with another, that they lived in great peace. He chastised theoves so severely, that none durst take any thing from other, neither in City nor Country, as well in desert as in peopled places. And in so great awe they were of him, that if any one had lost aught in the street or market place, none durst meddle therewith, otherwise then to leave it at the next shop, and cause it to be cried till the owner were found to whom it was to be restored. This King was so feared in all his Kingdoms, 
This custom was used among the Moors of Granada even to our days; and seemeth in a manner natural to them.  and his Subjects lived in such security, that one accident which befell in his time I hold worthy to be here related. Which is, that after he had conquered and won the Kingdom of Spain from the King Rodrigo a Christian by Profession, and had peopled and bordered it as he thought convenient, he sent an Alcayde a great favourite of his, called Abraham Maanya to visit the same, who being arrived there, and going about in visitation, passed through a great plain which lieth between two Cities, where meeting with a woman that was alone unaccompanied, yet not unhandsome, nor evil favoured, he marvelled much, ask her how she durst adventure to go alone through that unpeopled place, reproving and reprehending her boldness: who answered him in this manner; While our good King jacob Almansor liveth (whom I pray the Sovereign God to grant a long life and victory over his enemies.) We may all travail securely through his Kingdoms, and as safely in the wild fields, as in Towns and Cities. The Alcayde marvelling much at her words; when he was returned into the presence of his Lord Miramamolin Almansor, to give him account of such things as he had recommended to his care in his Visitation of Spain, amongst other memorable things, related unto him, how he met with the woman on that uninhabited plain, and how he reprehending her boldness in adventuring alone in a place where some outrage might easily be done her, she had answered him in that confident manner before rehearsed; and Miramamolin Almansor enquiring what he had replied unto her, he said that he had told her that she was a fool to imagine any such security, because if any were disposed to do her any wrong or damage, Miramamolin Almansor could yield her little help or secure being then in Arabia, so fare remote from Spain. The King Almansor was so much offended with those words, that he forthwith commanded him to prepare himself to return eftsoons for Spain, for he had great use of his Service there for administration of his Royal justice, and with great dissimulation he wrote presently a letter to the Governor of Spain, called Abulcacim Abdiluar, enclosing therein the Alcaydes own Confession, commanding, that as soon as he came he should impale him in that very place where he met with the woman, proclaiming his offence in this manner. That King Almansor commanded this justice to be executed on that Alcayde, for his bold attempt of speaking with the woman in that desert place, & especially for putting her in doubt of the security of her person, and saying that the King jacob Almansor could not help or succour her, living in Arabia so fare remote from Spain. This Alcayde forth with departed, not knowing that he carried his death enclosed in that letter; and as soon as he came to the Alcayde Abdiluar, than Governor of Spain, having read it, he caused him to be taken; and execute on him that sentence of the King Miramamolin his Lord. This case was much noted of all the Alcaydes, Governors, and Inhabitants of those Kingdoms, as well Moores as Christians. And this deed may serve for an example of many like, which he commanded to be done in his Kingdom's worthy of memory, which, to avoid prolixity, I forbear to rehearse in this brief treatise,   

CHAP. FOUR  
Of the manner and order which he held in his Council of War and military Affairs, and how he made his Conquests by Sea and by Land.  
ON the Sunday (as we have mentioned already) the King jacob Almansor meddled with no other affairs but military; for which he had four Alcaydes, named and chosen his Counsellors for the wars, of which the most ancient was the Precedent, to whom it belonged to receive all the Letters and advertisements which were sent by the Alcaydes that were Governors of the Kingdoms, where the garrisons & Sooldiers resided, and he perused them and prepared them against this day. Then the King Almansor entered into Counsel with them, and for answer to them being but ordinary affairs, it was endorsed on the letters, by which the ancient Alcayde had his direction what answer he should return them. But when he intended any wars or pretended any conquest, he called no Counsel, but wherein the General of his forces by Land, and the Alcayde who as chief Admiral was General by Sea, were also present. For he said, it was not reasonable to prefer the vote or voice of any his Counsellors, or his own, before that of these great Captains, who were to execute whatsoever he and his Counsel should ordain; therefore being called, they entered into Council: and the King jacob Almansor proposing and signifying unto them what he intended; the youngest Alcayde of the Counsel had the charge to oppose what Incoveniences he found in that which the King had propounded; and the rest conferred presently concerning the conclusion. There was nothing resolved on at the first or second sitting, but at the third it was always resolutely concluded what was to be done: so that if any Conquest were determined, letters were written to the Alcaydes of the men of war, directing them with such companies of horse and foot, as were under their command to repair to such place and quarter as was to them appointed. And other letters were sent to the Alcaydes who were Governors of the Kingdoms, to prepare for them all kind of necessary Provision, as well by Sea as by Land. Touching the pay of these men of war, he had allotted out of his Rents being the Tenths of Bread and other particular revenues pertaining to his Royal Crown, a sufficient portion for the pay of every Regiment of his men of war; which went out with their Mayordomo Pagador, Treasurer or Paymaster, by which means he assembled great Armies, taking out of his Treasury only the Provision for his Army by Sea and the pay of 〈…〉 in his service. And in the In●●●● whiles the Army was gathering together, the Alcayde who was Admiral of the Sea was bound to assemble his Navy, to furnish it wi●h victuals and other necessaries, and to have it ready rigged and prepared to embark the men of war at the day appointed. And the Alcayde who was Captain General of the Army by Land was bound to cause the uneven and ill passages of the ways and Provinces which the Regiments of Soldiers were to pass, to be made even and passable for their ma●●h, to assemble the Army, and to see it furnished with victuals and all necessaries. And as soon as the Army was assembled and embanked, the General of the Army by Land was bound to obey the Alcayde that was General by Sea, being on the Sea; and the General of the Sea in like manner was to be obedient to the General of the Army by Land, when he was on the Land, by which means he prevented all dissension and debate betwixt them. Henevergave them order which they were precisely to follow in prosecution of the war, but left all to their discretion; saying, that the proceeding of the wars could not in the house be directed, in such sort as they might in the Army. And because he ever chose such Generals as were of great wisdom and experience in the art military, he never undertook any conquest against any King, whether he were a Moor, a Christian, or Gentile, but he prevailed against him.  
This King Jacob Almansor had this quality that he never bestowed any place of an Alcayde or Captain on any that sued for it, how well soever he were qualified and fitted for the place: neither would he place him in any other office, if once he had made fute for any. He made choice of men experienced, who had served him long both in peace and war, done some remarkable services, by which they had approved their wisdom and valour and the love and loyalty with which they served him. He had no respect of blood or of high Lineage, but if he were a private man of poor estate, and had valour to rule and govern, he would give him the best and highest place amongst his Councillors. And if he were of great parentage, and had no valour he 〈…〉, nor would any way use his service. By ●●●ason of his good choice when his Army's 〈◊〉 from their conquests, his Generals used to make him Relations of the notable things which every of his Captains, Alcaydes, or any private Soldiers had done, which he read, and (with out forgetting any) rewarded them and preferred them to such places and offices as he found convenient. And as none durst make a lie unto him; so had none any advantage by favour without merino in such so●● that all endeavoured to serve him with g●… alacrity, being well assured that their travail should be rewarded according to the service they had done him. And this was the chief cause for which he was so well served and feared by all the Nations of the World.   

CHAP. V.  
Of the manner and order which he held in the Government of his Kingdoms.  
THis King Almansor used to spend the Monday on the care and Government of his Kingdoms in such sort, that after the first hour of the day he entered into his Council of Government with his four Councillors of State, where they made him account of the affairs and notable accidents which the Alcaydes of Government had written and certified, which if they were but ordinary, were answered and decreed as was convenient, it being the charge of the ancient Councillor to return the answers, and make dispatches, as it was also in the Council of War. But if they were matters of Importance they gave him a Memorial or Bill thereof, that he might take such order as was fitting: for as concerning the Provisions of offices of Alcaydes, and Governments, and other charges and ministrations, he distributed them himself, without advice of Councillors. Then going out of his Council, they placed a seat for him in public, on which he sat, and gave audience to such as came to complain of any Injustice done by any of his Governors, receiving their Complaints and Petitions, that he might consider and redress their grievances, which he did very speedily, uprightly, and with great severity. Albeit such accidents seldom happened, by reason that his justice was so feared, that no Alcayde or Governor durst do any Injustice, that none might have cause to complain.  
Concerning Elections and choice of his officers and Ministers, he carried himself after this manner. Of all his Alcaydes and Captains that had served in his wars, he had particular notice and remembrance of the valour of their persons, and the notable services they had done, by the true Relations which his Generals had made him, as before is rehearsed, which he kept registered summarily in a little book, together with the place of their Birth, their Age, and how long they had served. And when he saw they were grown old and wearied in his service, he licenced them to take rest, and honoured them with places and offices of Viceroys of Kingdoms, Alcaydes, or Commanderies and Captainships of Castles and fortresses: Some also with Governments of Provinces and Cities, giving them good and honourable solaries, receiving still their pay which they had in the wars. He observed also this order, that he gave them always these places of Preferment amongst their friends & kindred in the same Country where they were borne; never taking their offices from them nor changing them to other places, unless they had done some Injustice, or committed some other fault: and then he used first to take from them their offices; and then to chastise them according to the quality of their offence, saying that he that once did any Injustice for his particular Interest, no longer deserved to be a judge, not so much as a moment. The principal reason on which this King grounded for this election and distribution of his offices, was this. He said that none could ever know the valour of men, and that natural talon with which the Sovereign God and Nature had endowed them, except it were in the military Art; for therein the valiant are tried, and their courage and wisdom for Govenment of Commonweals in Peace and war is discerned. There men discover their good fortune in their deeds of Arms, in overcoming great armies, in winning of rich spoils, in preserving that place and Command which they have gotten with so much travail and labour, enduring so many evil days and worse nights, putting their life and honour in hazard, and in danger to lose all in a moment. There men come acquainted with hunger and thirst, nakedness and want, sleeping on the ground, sickness, cold and heat, yea, with intolerable travail: with all which manifold experience they become in their Age full of knowledge and skill how to rule & govern Commonweals: for with that valour and courage with which they won their Honour and their wealth, with the same they preserve the common wealth in Peace, governing it with uprightness observing justice: and with those necessities and miseries which they have passed through in the course of their life they condole those that are poor and miserable, apt to relieve their misery and necessity: and above all they which are courageous, valiant zealous of their Law and Religion, lovers of their King and country; and who with such care and vigilancy won that Reward in the war, that they deserved to be Governors of Kingdoms; with the same mind also would they govern the Commonwealth, not being able to endure any Injustice or evil to be done.  
He never gave any of their offices to any other private men, how wise and valiant soever, if they had not won Honour and Reputation by long service in the wars, and were also of ripe years and counsel, and had done some notable acts to testify their wisdom, courage, valour, and ability, deserving offices, Administrations, and Governments of Commonweals, Kingdoms and Provinces; for he said that men brought up in obscurity, and living in corners, had not the courage to adventure and try their fortune, but being cowardly and pusillanimous were ever unfortunate; and that Fortune her self never favoured them in any thing, but always despised and disesteemed them, and that therefore he made no reckoning of such for any employment, as having in them no valour, no natural ability.  
This King jacob Almansor was so vigilant in the Government of his Kingdoms, that many times he went out by night, disguised in the habit of a countryman or common-downe and toperson, & visited the public places, rooms, and offices in his court, and sometimes in the habit of a merchant, he would travail two or three days journey: otherwhiles he put on the habit of a Soldier, with two or three disguises, when he would inform himself of any notable thing; and how his Governors administered justice; and how his Captains and Generals carried themselves in Peace and War, and so came to the verifying of what he sought, with much dissimulation; and many times chastised the delinquents when they were most secure. And this he did so oft, and so warily, that his Subjects took a Proverb or common speech amongst them, which they often used in their assemblies and meetings, when any one spoke of aught that was unlawful, the rest would presently reprehend him, 
It is to be noted that in those days the Arabians used to wear a veil over their face.  saying, take heed lest the King jacob Almansor hear you. For they thought he was in every place, because he used in such manner to go up and down▪ and to do such notable deeds as caused admiration; with which he held all his Subjects in great sear and awe: and all the Alcaydes of Government thought he was ever looking on them; so that they durst not do any Injustice, or neglect aught that was under their charge, knowing him to be of so sharp and severe disposition, that if once they fell into disgrace, they should never hold up their heads again whiles they lived. This was the main cause that he governed all his Kingdoms in peace, and that none of his Alcaydes or Viceroys durst any ways attempt the least thing in the World.   

CHAP. VI  
Of the virtuous exercises, in which the King jacob Almansor spent the Tuesdays, and Wensdayes.  
THis King (as we have rehearsed in the Distribution, which he made of the days of the week) chose the Tuesdays and Wensdayes for his particular Exercises, which he divided in this manner▪ The Tuesday morning his Huntsmen, Mountaynmen Bowmen, and other Servants and Officers of that kind being assembled, he went out to the Mountains, and there delighted and exercised himself in chase and hunting all kind of game, both of Bird and Beasts, of which he had great store and variety in the Woods, Groves, and Gardens of Hillan and Albasatim, kept and ordered in the best manner that might be; where he recreated himself with his followers; and to those of them that had performed any notable exploit that day (wherein he much delighted) he rewarded with ten pieces of Gold. This Exercise he followed until noon; and then dined in the midst of a great house of pleasure which he had there; where all that followed him did eat, and many poor folks were refreshed; for he used that day and place, especially for matters of Alms and relief of the poor, and would not by express order be encumbered therewith eslewhere. When he had dined, a Mayordomo put into a purse a thousand pieces of Gold, called Mi●e●ales, and then he sitting down in a square Court, there came the poor before him, as well those of his Court, as of other Towns and Cities, which brought every one his Certificate from his Alcayde or Governor of the estate of his necessities. And if it were for Marriage of poor Orphans or other such occasions, he gave direction for their relief. And it they were some smaller wants, he supplied them presently out of that purse which his Mayordomo had filled. But if the matters were of more importance, he subscribed his answer to those Relations or Certificates of his Governors: giving direction how every one should be relieved, and out of what receipt or revenue, in such good sort, that all went away contented and satisfied, He said to his followers, that he esteemed that the best day of his life, in which he relieved all those poor folks for the love of the sovereign God. It was remarkable in him, that it could never be noted, that ever any sought for alms or succour at his hands, whether he were Moor, Christian, or jew, that went away unrelieved. He held opinion that there was never any King poor, and that if he were so, he should be very miserable and unfortunate: and that Kings should be as large in giving as they are in demanding and receiving of their Subjects, without which they have neither power, Empire, nor command in the World, more than a private person. He was so ready to relieve the needy, and to secure the succourless, that going one day on hunting, he lost himself, being severed from his Servants; and holding on his course through the Wood, he found a poor travailing man, who being taken with some sudden sickness, was fallen on the ground unable to go any farther: he therefore alighting, laid him on his own horse, and having tied him fast in his Saddle, he took the reines of the bridle in his hands, and so walked on foot himself more than two leagues before he met with his train: who albeit they offered to ease him of the care of the sick, and to mount him on another horse, yet he would by no means yield unto it, but conducted him with his own hands, until he had brought him to his house in the Wood; and there caused him to be cured, till he was throughly recovered: and when being become sound, he kissed his hand at parting with many thankes as was fitting for so great a avour, he answered, that there belonged no thankes unto him, but that all was due to the Sovereign God, who had sent him that day to succoun him; for he assured him by his Royal Crown, that he had lost his company, wandering he knew not where, nor which way he went, until he lighted happily on him in that place where he found him sick: and that it could not possibly be, but that he was guided by God, seeing he wandered in that country in which he was borne and bred, and yet never had the like befallen him. And when he that was healed would have taken his leave to departed, he commanded a good sum of money to be given him out of his Treasury, that he might live in good sort, and so did dismiss him. These and other like things did the King Almansor, that those about him might learn and take good and laudable examples out of his manners and customs.  
The day following, being Wednesday, he gave no Audience, neither treated with any; but shut himself into his Chamber, reposing himself after his Hunting and violent exerercising which he had used the Tuesday before. And there being alone, he wrought Astrolabes of Asrologie and other Instruments of great worth and high estimation amongst the wise of his time. Otherwhiles he made of inlaid work such delicate things, and of such great account, that the skilfullest Masters and professors of that Art took example and pattern of those pieces which he had wrought: for in all these things he had a singular dexterity, subtlety, and excel encie of hand. He made Crossbows also, and other kind of Weapons and Arms, especially, Coats of Mail, of such excellency, that I can witness that I saw one of them (which he had given to an Ale aid, being his Favourite) sold for the weight thereof in Silver. In these Exercises he used to spend these days, and not in any other sort.   

CHAP. VII.  
Of the Exercises which he used on the Thursday, and how he exercised the Sciences among the Learned.  
THis King jacob Almansor was so learned in all Sciences, and such a lover of learned men of what faculty soever they were, that there never came any to his knowledge and acquaintance, but he honoured and loved him exceedingly: and on the contrary, he no less hated and eschewed the foolish and ignorant. For he said, that there was no greater misery in the World than Ignorance, neither any Monster how fierce, foul, or abominable soever that was comparable thereto. He proclaimed over all his Kingdoms, that whosoever should bring him any Book that were not in his Library already, of what faculty soever it was, should receive double the value, according to the just estimation thereof: and performed it accordingly. And if they were exquisite Books and good, he paid much more to them that brought them, giving great rewards. By this means he gathered such a multitude of Books, that when he numbered them in his Library, he found there fifty five thousand, seven hundred twenty and two bodies of all kind of Sciences, in their several Languages; and weighing them in a weight, they weighed twelve hundred and nineteen quintals of Paper. And for verifying of this Truth, 
A quintal is taken for a hundred weight.  the greatest part of them is yet at this present, remaining in the Library of the Royal Palace, which your Highness at this day possesseth: and if any of the Books be wanting (whereof I make no doubt) the number and names of the Authors will be found in the Catalogue, which this learned King caused to be made. When Thursday was come, he went into a Royal Hall or large room adjoining to his Library, which was adorned with rich hangings, and the floor covered with Carpets of great price, and the room replenished with costly Seats, where by he honoured those learned men with whom he had treated & conferred about matters of Learning; for he would never permit any of them to stand nor hear him a word at those times appointed for conference, until they were all set down on their Seats; Saying, that seeing Learning ought to be honoured; so ought also the men that were learned, being the Sons of so honourable a Mother. Being thus assembled, one of them declared the Propositions which he maintained in his faculty; the rest arguing on the contrary. And if any doubt arose on the allegation of Authors, there stood always ready at the door of the Library, a learned man that had the custody thereof; who brought presently the Book which the King called for, whereby the doubt was resolved. This course he commonly continued till noon, and then he went to his dinner, and caused all those learned men to dine in the same room, and to be served as himself. Dinner being ended, the King jacob Almansor went unto them with many thankes for that good which he acknowledged of them, commending their learning and knowledge, appointing them also what points they should study against the next meeting, that they might be the better prepared to yield him a good resolution; and named which of them should maintain the Conclusion. Having dismissed them from his presence: he entered his Library, and spent there the rest of that day, studied in what faculty he most desired; for he was so great a Lover of Learning that whiles I served him I heard him often say; That he had no greater grief in the world, then that the necessary care of the Government of his house and Kingdoms would allow him no more time but one day of the week for the getting of Learning; and that if it were lawful for him to do it without being noted of negligence, he would never meddle of any other thing all the days of his life; and that he never did any thing that grieved him more than the aceepting of the office of King, and taking on him the Rule and Government of the Royal Sceptre of his Kingdoms, in the life of his father Abilgualit, whereby he had lost much time which he might freely have employed in Learning, without being troubled with the care of the Rule and Government of the Commonwealth; and therefore often wished that his Son wore of ripe age, of Mature judgement, and Counsel, that he might leave him his Royal Sceptre, and rest from that great care which he had of the common good of his Subjects.   

CHAP. VIII.  
In what manner he commanded the Sciences to be read in his Kingdoms, and of the Vniver sities and Colleges which he caused to be built, and endowed with the Hospitals for the sick and the poor.  
SO friendly was this King jacob Almansor to Learning and to Learned men, and so desirous that the exercise of Learning, and the number of those that were Learned might increase in his Kingdoms, that he commanded the building of the famous Collegiate Hospital, which at this day is adjoining to his Royal Palace, and was by him endowed with a large and ample revenue: wherein he also constituted Learned Professors and Masters in all Faculties, to read and teach the Sciences with good Salaries: allowing also therein Provision of Diet, Apparel, and Books for all the poor Students, without putting their Fathers and Friends to any charge, until they were Graduates: and there graciously gave them the Titles of their Degrees. This was done in the one side of this Hospital: where he established seven Academies. In the other side he appointed a place for the poor diseased where they were cured, as they are at this present, with such service, regard, care, and diligence, as they are also at this day, which because it is notorious, I will speak no more of it in this brief Treatise of his life. And th●● King Almansor entered sometimes into this Hospital by a false door out of his Palace and passed his time visiting the sick, and comforting of them, observing how they were used, and whether there were any negligence in the Officers thereof. And then he went into the Academies, to see the Students how they studied, and commanded the Masters there, that some of the best able should rehearse some notable things of those which there they had learned, and rejoiced exceedingly therein, and caused gifts to be given to them which contented him best, saying that those poor diseased, and those Students were his Sons, and that he that cherished and comforted them, aught to account that he cherished and comforted his own Royal person. He commanded also that other Hospitals should be builded in all the Principal Cities at his charge through out all his Kingdoms, for the like purpose, and gave order to his Alcaydes who were Governors that they should visit them with the like care and diligence as he visited those of his Court. He gave direction also that these Hospitals should receive all Pilgrims and Passengers of all Nations whatsoever, whether they were poor or rich, giving them entertainment both for Diet and Lodging in convenient sort for themselves, their Servants, and the Beasts which they road on by the space of six days: and that if they were poor, they should give them at their departure, wherewith to defray their first day's journey. There was every year given him a Bill containing the Examination of the Students that were brought up in the Hospital of his Court, and of the others through out his Kingdoms, and of the ability and Talon of every one; and for what employment he was fittest. As also there was yearly given him a Note of the Offices that were void, either of the Alfaquys of the Mesquitas, being his Churchmen, or of the Cadies or judges of the Cities: and at Easter he supplied them, bestowing them all himself on whom he thought good. And so the Offices which became void in those Hospitals, as well of the Masters, Professors, as of other Ministers which held there any charge or place of esteem, he always preferred the Students which had been bred and brought up there; and commanded the like to be done by the Governors of his other Kingdoms. By this good work he cured many of their Infirmities, augmented much the Sciences, and holp many poor Students to study, free from care, by his good providing to relieve their necessities: which made them all pray to God for his health and long life.   

CHAP. IX.  
Of his great Deeds and Battles won by himself personally present; and by his Captains; and how he came to be called Almansor.  
ALL the Exercises and the division of the Week, whereof we have hitherto entreated were done by the King jacob Almansor, when he was in his Royal Palace, and in his Court in Peace. But when he had any necessary occasion to travel, or any war in hand which required his personal Presence, he left the former charge and care to be supplied by one of his faucured Alcaydes, being a man of such Learning, Experience, and ability as was requisite: in such sort that there was no default, were his absence never so long. And albeit he never embarked himself to make war by Sea on any King, but did all by his Generals and Alcaydes of his men of War: yet when he intended to win and conquer any kingdom or Province by land, he delighted exceedingly to be present in person with his Army. For he said, that the vigour of his spirit alone, and the only imagining of his Alcaydes, Captains, and Soldiers that he was personally present, and that he adventured his life as well as they, was sufficient to overcome many Enemies, and made them with redoubled courage to do their endeavour. In this manner, he won thirteen set Battles in the field, and took five Kings of the Gentiles, without being defeated in any of them, or his Army routed: and even with a few Soldiers, in regard of those that came against him, he performed great Exploits. The most notable was, that when he had overcome one of the Kings of the Gentiles in the Country of Deuque, called Abni Raquib, and an Army of seventy thousand foot, and four thousand horse, which King escaped by flight, and met with a Son in Law of his named Abenyusael Salami, who came to secure him, whereupon receiving new courage, he turned again to see whether he could recover what he had lost, and be revenged of his enemy. And albeit he came against him with fresh Soldiers that were not wearied, which were no fewer than forty thousand foot, and two thousand horse: and the Army of the King Almansor was now wearied and enfeebled, many having been hurt and slain in the former battle, and he being much perplexed: yet seeing he could not now retire, but with great loss and disadvantage, nor without some imputation of cowardice, he resolved to abide his enemies encounter anew: and to reinforce his Army, he went every where himself, putting them in order, and encouraging of them, saying aloud after this manner; Good Soldiers and valiant Warriors, let us dye with Honour like Conquerors and victorious, as we are at this present; and let us not fly dishonourably; for I will be the first that shall set upon the enemy; and be ye not afraid since Abilgualit. Almansor is with you, whom the Sovereign God hath never yet suffered to be ouercome; no more shall be at that time. With these words he began the Battle without farther speech; and he fought valiantly himself in his Royal person, killed many, and took the King Abni Raquib: and his Son in Law died fight in that Battle bravely. And when they had taken the spoil of his Camp, all his Soldiers said that the highest God had made Abilgualit victorious, and that with great reason he might be called Almansor. And from that day forward, they named him Almansor Abenforoh, whereas before he was called Abilgualit jacob Abninacer; albeit in all these Chapters which I have written of his life, I have always named him Almansor, that I might not alter his name which was best known: and he might well be so called, because he was never overcome in any battle, nor any of his Generals in any wars or battles, which they fought or made by his direction, either by Sea or by Land, which are all registered in the Book which is written of his life and wars of his time, and of his great Exploits, and those of his Alcaydes and Governors of his Armies: with which I intent not to cloy the Readers. But will only rehearse the number of them, which were seventy and three Battles, or fought Fields by Land, and thirteen fights by Sea. Touching the dividing of the Spoils which his Soldiers had when the Battles were ended, he commanded all to be gathered and laid together in such sort, that none durst take any thing without his leave. And the distribution of them was made according to his Statutes and Ordinances for the wars; which was, that every Soldier which was slain in the War should have his part and portion as fare forth as they that were living: and such parts and portions were accordingly delivered to the companions and friends of the dead who undertook the delivering of them to the Children, Wives, and Heirs of them to: whom they belonged. For he said it was not just nor reasonable, that he who died fight should lose his part, seeing they that were his had loss enough in losing of him without losing the goods, which were gotten with the price of his life. When he had made this distribution, he used to give audience to any that was grieved therewith, giving order briefly, and summarily in what manner he should be righted, in such sort that they were all satisfied and well contented. And this was the chief cause that when he intended any war he was so sought to, and served by his followers, who were ready to hazard their lives for him without fear.  
This King jacob Alnansor as he was very loving to the Learned, and friendly to the valiant and virtuous, so was he as adverse an enemy to Liars, Pratlers, and Gamesters, and abhorred and loathed the Loitering Unthrifts and Idlers: for he said that all sueh persons were unprofitable to the Commonweals; like the Droves in the Bee-hives, that are no ways helpful to the Bees, neither in gathering nor preserving the Honey or the Wax; but only to fill up the rooms in their houses; and to eat and consume what they had provided for their sustenance: and these he used to chasten according to their desert. He would never be idle so much as a moment; but was ever busied in good and virtuous Exercises. He caused also a Law to be made, that what person soever he were that had no Office, Trade, or course of life wherein to employ his time, should be held infamous and of no reputation, of what estate or degree soever he were: which was the cause that in imitation of him all his Subjects shunned idleness, and bestowed their time in virtuous Exercises: by means whereof they escaped many vices and diseases, and lived without want, except it were here and there one, as it is in all Kingdoms.   

CHAP. X.  
How the resigned his Royal Sceptre to his eldest Son; and of his retiredness which he chose, and of a Letter written to his Son of Admonitions, for his good Government whereunto he was bound.  
THe King Abilgualit jacob Almansor, seeing himself waxed old and weary of his Government, and considering that his Son Abilgualis Abninace was of sufficient age, wit and ability to rule and govern, resigned unto him his Royal Sceptre, his Crown and Kingdoms, with the consent of his wisest Counselors and the Alcaydes that were Governors: retiring himself to a solitary life in that Country house in the Mountains of Albasatim and Alhillan which hath been before mentioned: where on the top of a high Rock near adjoining, he had caused to be built a sumptuous Mezquita or Temple, with a College or Monastery, wherein might live an Eremite or Abbot, with forty Disciples or Monks, appointing to be chief Governor therein, a man of much Learning named Mahomet el Gazeli. In this man he had such confidence that he consulted with him concerning his weightiest affairs and matters of most importance, as with a man of Learning and Wisdom, who gave him sound advice, and of whom he had learned much. To that house therefore among those woody Mountains, he withdrew himself, there hence often repairing to that Mezquita, and Monastery, to recreate himself in conference and conversation with Mahomet el Gazeli: not permitting any to visit him but his Servants and his ancient Alcaydes, neither them for their pleasure or pastime; for if they came not on some business of importance or earnest occasion, he admitted them not to his presence, neither suffered them to visit him. In this manner he passed his life with great quietness and freedom from cares.  
He very cunningly and subtly used to examine such of his ancient Servants and Alcaydes as came unto him, every of them apart by himself, and that very particularly, in what manner his Son Abilgualit Abninace governed his Kingdoms; whether his Subjects spoke well of him, & whether they complained or misliked him on just cause or otherwise: with such diligence he learned out of all of them what faults they found and observed in him. And this King Almansor being zealous of the common good of his Kingdoms, and desirous that his Son should rule well, intending to reprehend him of some things, and instruct him how he should govern without reciting or mentioning any one particular case of any that had complained to him, wrote this Letter unto him, which for the good admonitions therein contained, I have thought fit here to set down.  
The Letter of King Almansor.  
Praise be given to the Sovereign God, to whom Sacrifice and Prayer belongeth. Amen. And his plenteous blessing and Grace come upon you my Son; for without it no creature of his can do any good thing, be it never so little, seeing all that is good cometh of his hand. This being thus premised, I have thought good by this Letter to advertise you of some things which you are to observe concerning the Government of your Kingdoms, that your Subjects may enjoy much peace with safety and tranquillity; and that also you may be duly reverenced, loved and feared of them, as is convenient.  
The first that you are to take care of is, that you be not proud, highminded, nor presumptuous, imagining diverse imaginations, because you see yourself made Lord of so many and so great Kingdoms and Armies by Sea and by Land, so many valorous Alcaydes and Captains humbled in your Royal presence, obedient to all your commands, and ready to execute whatsoever you shall appoint. To free yourself from this great Temptation, you are to consider the infinite power and everlasting Kingdom of God, having no beginning, middle, nor end, being of incomprehensible power and wisdom. And therewithal you are to consider that your Kingdom is not infinite, but hath his limits and bounds; and is to finish, and to have an end; as also the very memory of it among men. With this consideration you shall be in such sort humbled, as is requisite you should.  
Secondly, you ought to consider that the Sovereign God created you in this World, and gave you power as a second cause of his to fulfil his most holy will in the Government of his creatures here on earth, by maintaining justice and using Mercy and Clemency, imitating your Creator: and not to err in the administration of this Office, you ought to behold and contemplate the Book of this fair Theatre, called the World; this subordination of natural Causes; this regular and continual moving of the Heavens, Signs, and Planets: so many Generations and corruptions in reasonable men; and in all other things created in the Earth, in the Water, and in the Air: the Night and the Day, the Rain, Hail and Wind, the changes of Times; Heat and Cold, and other alterations innumerable, being all created in such orderly disposition, with such Wisdom, perfection and Providence, as the wisest and skilfullest could never attain to know: and how from the time in which he created this goodly Frame to this present, and to the last instant in which it shall please him that it cease and have end, it neither hath been nor shallbe needful to add or take any thing to it or from it: for that were to suppose some imperfection in his Works, which cannot be because he is the God of highest perfection. Moreover to consider how he sustaineth it, governing and maintaining all things with judgement and Mercy, with great and wonderful Providence; such a one he is. You ought therefore to perceive that your Government is Disorder; your justice Jniustice; your Mercy is want of Clemency, your Charity Covetousness, your careful Diligence is Slothfulness; and to conclude, that all your Knowledge is but Ignorance. And I can assure you, that if you would be merciful to his Creatures; yet you cannot pardon their sins; If you be a good justicer, you can only chasten their bodies, not their Souls. If never so charitable, you cannot give a blessing to their goods: If you be large and loving, yet you cannot make them live forever: If you incline to give them case and rest, yet you cannot give them glory: If you desire to add comfort to them, yet you can give them no true and perfect consolation of Spirit. Behold, therefore what I say unto, you that you may know how great is the misery of man: Seeing that with all your power and Kingdoms you cannot make one drop of water to fall out of the Region of the Clouds; nor make one lease of a Palmotree; nor yet deliver and free yourself from the least tribulation of the World.  
The third thing which you are to call to mind, is that you must die, and must be judged by our Sovereign God with a strict account of the good and evil you have done in this life; like a sinful miserable man; and that over and above this account which is to be given by all men in general. King's are to yield another particular to the Almighty God, which is, whether they have well administered and governed their Commonweals. If only in regard of their Kingly power they have dealt hardly with their Subjects without any just cause or offence of theirs: If they have imposed great payments, or exacted unnecessary Tributes; If they have done wrong or unjustly for their particular interest; if they did not condole with the poor, and relieve and ease the oppressed, having power to remedy their distress, and to redress their grievances: and to conclude, if they have been careless of the good of their Commonweals; Woe be to the Souls of such; for they shall be condemned to perpetual torments. By this you may clearly see that you and your Kingdoms are nothing, and have no being whereof to make any reckoning. I assure you therefore, that if you had duly considered the charge and duty whereunto you bond yourself that day on which I resigned the Government into your hands, that you had more cause to mourn and to be sorrowful then to ordain Feasts and Triumphs with Music and Disports, which in effect were used according as is usually accustomed. Let these things but pass through your memory and clearer understanding, and then Pride and Ambition will fall under your feet and you shall easily, subdue them. For I assure you, that one dram of Pride will weigh heavier than one hundred Quintals of good understanding in the wisest man in the World: and see; it is the very gate by which the Devil the accursed of God entereth to tempt men; and overcometh, captivateth and overthroweth them into the fearful, horrible, everlasting Hell: from which the Sovereign God for his great Mercy free us and deliver us. Amen.  
The fourth thing of which I admonish you is, that you yield Justice, administering it indifferently to all that shall ask it; for I assure you, that the King which shall not so administer it will soon be dispossessed of his Kingdom as a man unworthy to reign: For God permitteth unbelieving in this World, reserving the chastisement thereof for the day of his final judgement, and maintaineth the World, and all his creatures with justice and Mercy; albeit some are without the true knowledge of him; but he readily chastiseth with rigour, even in this life, unjustice and wickedness, when malice increaseth, and men are obstinate therein like a Just judge as he is. Be no teller of Lies, for it is the basest thing in the World, and the Liar is the Devil's Disciple, a man without Virtue a Traitor to the Truth and an enemy thereof, & one to whom no credit is to be given; & the least punishment that men allot him is, that although he speak the truth yet he is not believed. Let your Speech be moderate, that men may not note you for a Prattler; which would make you unregarded, and held for a man of little discretion. All these good advertisements in my Letter have their contraries, and therefore our Sovereign God gave you freedom of will, and liberty of choice that you might follow the good and of chew the evil; and without his help you can do nothing. This only I will warn you, that you set God before you in all your ways, doing justice with charity, simplicity, and uprightness, and you shall not err, whatsoever you take in hand. And although I might write much more in this Letter; Yet this may suffice, for there is included in it whatsoever can be required of him that will well consider of it to put it in practice, as I intent it, to his entire satisfaction which I doubt not but you will perform with the help of our Sovereign God his blessing and grace; whom I humbly pray and beseech to grant it you as I give you mine; and have you in his keeping. Amen.  
From this house of Albasatin, the twentieth day of Rageb in the ninety and fixth year.  
This Letter being received by the King Abilgualit, made him rejoice exceedingly, & he took so earnestly to heart this his Father's reprehension, and put his Rules in practice in such sort, that he caused them that served him to admire; for he endeavoured with great care and diligence to amend the faults and negligences which he had committed, especially in administering justice, and began to follow the footsteps: of the King Almansor his Father in his manner of Government, and in all the rest that he used whiles he reigned, in so much that in very short time he made them see the amendment he had made of his Life and Government, in such sort that all his Alcaydes were much contented therewith, though in some particular distasted: for in all other things he could imitate his Father, saving only in his Liberality and Charity; sodim these the King Almansor did much exceed him. And this I believe was the chief cause that he never got so good a name as his Father. For certainly, Liberality is a great virtue in Kings, wherewith they draw the minds of men to love and serve them unfeignedly with clarity: who on the contrary when they feel not their own interest coming, let fall the wings of their courage and cheerfulness, loving and serving more coldly and faintly: because the irascible faculty having her residence as she hath in the heart, and loving to be honoured and esteemed, and desirous to have her travails gratified with self proper interest, when that ceaseth, the working of the will doth cease. Especially in men of the Sword, which of all others are most necessary for Kings, as well for preserving their Estates, as for the conquering of new Kingdoms and Signiories. Which was the chief cause that this King Abilgualit could never get any new Provinces, but with much difficulty preserved that Kingdom which he had inherited from his Father, and was at the point to have lost all for want of being free and generous towards his men of war as was requisite for their encouragement; for they being accustomed 〈◊〉 such gratification and largesse, as the King jacob Almansor used towards them, grew soon distasted with the contrary in his Son Abilgualit: which was the cause that he could never raise any Army by Land or by Sea worth the speaking of, to do any service of account, which merited the remembrance of Histories. This may suffice for this particular; seeing my purpose is only to write the life of the King jacob Almansor.   

CHAP. XI.  
How King jacob Almansor became sick to to Death; and how he assembled his wisemen and the rest of the Alcaydes; Of his prudent speech he made them; and the Pardon he demanded of them.  
THe King Almansor spending his time quietly in that house of Albazatin and Albillan in company of Mahomet Algazeli and his Disciples, after some time fell sick of an infirmity of long continuance: and seeing himself to wear away, and that all the remedies which his Physicians applied profited little: one day when they were about him in consultation concerning his Disease, and the difficulty of the Cure, by reason of the manifold Symptoms, his great age and debility of Nature considered; he said thus unto them; Ye, my Physicians, endeavour and labour to restore my health, but if God's pleasure be otherwise; your purpose is but vain. For I assure you, that when God hath determined to end a man's life, the Medicines ministered by the Physicians do little avail him; but serve rather to the hastening his end. And so do I conceive, of those which ye have hitherto applied unto me, I lay no blame on you, but commend your Learning and Knowledge; and that good affection wherewith you have endeavoured to recover my health: for which I thank you, and esteem as much of your service as if you had prevailed. But I will not suffer you to be any longer deceived; for the first day that I fell into this infirmity, I assured myself, it would be my death knowing the same to be a lingering extraordinary Disease, differing from the rest which I have endured in the course of my life. And especially seeing in the periods thereof I find it rigorous, it seemeth to me to be but loss of time to treat of recovery. Henceforward therefore let no more pains be taken in that behalf. For I am very conformable to the will of our Sovereign God; and do give him infinite thankes for this great favour which he vouchsafeth me, in taking me out of the troubles and calamities of this miserable life.  
Then he caused the King Abilgualit, and the Infant Abraham Alamzari to be called; who being come before him on their knees, and half prostrate on the ground; kissed his hand; and he giving them his blessing, said thus unto them. My dear and well-beloved Sons, the last period of my life is now at hand; the Sovereign God being pleased to take me out of this World. That which I admonish you is, that ye love like true Brethren, holding good conformity in your minds, and confirming it with good deeds; for so shall ye live in Peace, and no enemy shall be able to hurt you. And if ye continue not in Peace and good conformity, ye shall soon see your Kingdoms overthrown. And turning his eyes to the Infant Abraham, he said thus; And you Son Abraham on pain of my curse I command you that you be always obedient to the King Abilgualit your brother, and hold him henceforward in my place for your true Father and Lord; for I am confident in his wisdom and virtue, that he will hold and use, and regard you as his Son. Then directing his eyes to his Son Abilgualit he said, And so I command and charge you Son Abilgualit on like pain. And they lamenting and weeping in such sort that they could scarce speak, answered, that they would obey him.  
Then he called in his Alcaydes, the Governors of his Kingdoms; those of his highest Counsels, and the men of wisdom and learning, who attended in the utter chamber; & the rest of his kinsmen & friends, who when they had saluted him and kissed his hand, he commanded his Morabito Mahomet Algazeli (who being his favourite, sat at his bed's head with the help of other attendants to lift him out of his bed: and sitting, spoke thus unto them, My beloved Sons and true Friend in our Sovereign God, The time is now come, in which my Soul is to pass out of this miserable world, to yield account of the good and evil which I have done in this life. I have been King and Governor of these Kingdoms, and have bred you, taught you, cherished, and loved you as a Father; and have also chastened your excesses, and overbold attempts with zeal and desire to do that which was requisite. But being a man I know that in all things I have erred as a man; for we are all weak and miserable Sinners. I therefore earnestly entreat and beseech you with all humility, that if I be any way indebted to any of you, that ye presently declare it: and that I may cause him to be recompensed. And if there be none; I ask pardon of you all in general of that which is past: for I, for my part, do pardon and forgive whatsoever in word or deed is by me to be, pardoned of any errors or neglects of yours, which you have committed against me. And this only I lay before you, that he which useth not Mercy towards his Neighbour, must expect none at God's hands at the last judgement. Which when they had heard, so great was the grief they all conceived, and such plenty of tears in their eyes, that they could not answer a word for a good space, considering that by losing their King jacob Almansor, they lost their chiefest good, so great was the love which they bore him. Yet after awhile they answered, that they all did pardon him, and if need were, would give all their goods, and adventure their lives for him: If he were so pleased to command, as readily as they or any of their Ancestors had formerly done for his service, and that he should no way doubt of their pardon and promise, since they were there present to fulfil it. Then the King Almansor could not refrain weeping, yet rendered great thankes for their loving offer, and blessed them: worning them also, that neither they nor any other Friends of his should fail to be present at his burial, for in their love he received great consolation. Which they all promised, and departed from his presesence so afflicted and sorrowful that they shut up themselves; in such sort that in three days there was no Council held, nor any business dispatched in Court until he somewhat amended: and then they sell to negotiating and dispatching affairs; yet with grief and sorrow for their good King, as they had great reason.   

CHAP. XII.  
How the King jacob Almansor died: Of his sumptuous Innterment; his Tomb and Monument; and of the Epitaphs engraven on his Sepulchre.  
THe amendment of the King jacob Almansor was not such, as out of which any certain sign of Recovery could be had: but it was rather a space for the Indication of the last Parocisme of Death during this Interpolation. So that albeit his Servants were in some hope, the good King being well assured of his death, neglected no moment nor minute for the disposing of all things as he held himself bound. He willed all his movable goods and moneys to be given to the poor for God's sake: which were forthwith distributed accordingly Then he gave liberty to all his Slaves and Bondmen. He reserved nothing but only his Library, charging the King Abilgualit he should keep it for himself; and esteem it as it deserved: and that in lieu thereof he should place in marriage a thousand poor Orphans, gining to every of them a thousand Miticales in marriage.  
On the fift day after he died naturally; leaving this present life on Thursday, in the last watch of the night, on the third day of the Moon Rageb; in the hundred and second year of the Hixera. On the day following, 
This year in about the year of our Redemption 723.  the King Abilgualit wrote unto all the Alcaydes of his Kingdoms a Letter to this effect, that they all should mourn and solemnize his Funeral, Praise be given to the Sovereign God. Amen. Hereupon they gave order for his Innterment, for which the King jacob Almansor had prepared and framed on the top of a high Hill, on the Southside of that House called Albazatin that sumptuous Hermitage which is there seen at this present, and adjoining to it his Sepulchre, being a Vault made of a rich kind of jasper of such largeness, as would contain forty persons, and upon it caused a solid stone to be erected on four Pillars of Alabaster, and on the sides four smooth stones with his Epitaphs written in them in the greater Arabic verses, with a very fair Character. This Sepulchre is about a mile distant from the House of Albazatin. There were assembled at his Funeral fifteen hundred Alfaqui or principal Priests with the Alfaqui Mayor of the Mezquita of his Court, and the Morabito Mahometo Algazeli with all his Monks or Disciples, and the King Abilgualit and the Infant Abraham, his Brother with all their Servants; the Alcaydes that were Governors and those of the Supreme Counsels with their Precedents, and all the other Alcaydes of the Court, whether of Peace or of War, which were twelve hundred in number: The common people being there innumerable, for there was almost none but would be present at this Solemnity. All these Courtiers and Alfaqui were clad in mourning garments trailing their Royal Ensigns and Standards on the ground. That which was most to be noted, was the abundance of tears flowing from them, and the great mourning and lamentation they all made that day, especially when they saw their good King laid in his Sepulchre, and the entrance thereof closed, and fast mured up with stone, having no farther hope to see him any more. Praised be God. Amen. For the good which cometh to us by his hand. And thus ended this good King, leaning an eternal memory of himself among those that should come after.  
The Epitaphs on his Sepulchre were composed by Mahomet Algazeli: and are these that follow.  

The first Epitaph.  
Here lieth buried the high and highly reverenced King of most Noble Birth, famous Race and Lineage, descended of eighty and two Kings, Abilgualit Miramamolin jacob Almanfor: who was worthily called the Conqueror, being never overcome; the famousest of the Sons of Nasts Abu Malique: Seeing he won eighty and six Battles by Sea and by Land; and took five Kings; subdued three parts of the World, Asia, Africa, and Europe; and gave Peace and Tranquillity to his Subjects: observing justice with benignity, and mercy. This is he that used Charity, and augmented his Religion: having at his own cost builded in his Kingdoms five hundred and six principal Mezquitas; eighty and two Hospitals; with as many Royal Colleges; and endowed them with large and sumptuous revenues. This is he that married every year at his charge a thousand Orphans, he that banished Ignorance and embraced Learning. He that gave to all the World examples of life in his Say and Sentences and notable Deeds of Arms. He who was an example of good and laudable customs. He that killed the hunger, and thirst, and nakedness of his Subjects with his large and liberal hands. Let immortal fame ever 〈◊〉 on this Sepulchre, and acknowledge him that●l yet 〈◊〉 therein for her King and Lord, seeing by him she is made triumphant, and victorious over 〈…〉. This great 〈…〉 died 〈…〉 in his Invocation of the Name of the merciful God the Creator of Heaven and Earth without ceasing so much at a moment until his last gasp imploring his incomprehensible mercy, and fearing his high justice the third day of the Moon of Rageb, the night before Friday, 
This agreeth with the said year of 723.  after the last watch in the hundred and second year of the Hixera. Praised be God and blessed be his most holy Name for ever. Amen.   

The second Epitaph.  
O How great is the Misery of men which hath brought a King of so great Power, Empire and Command to the estate wherein he is at this present, who as yesterday was honoured, reverenced, and beloved of his people; and is now forgotten and forsaken of them all: and remaineth solitary in the dark Caves of the earth. He which was wont to be clad in Silk and Cloth of Gold and Silver, and to sleep in the softest and sweetest beds, curiously and richly decked and adorned; lieth here buried in the hard earth. He which used to go presumed with Musk and Amber, and other excellent odours, now yields in his base estate a noisome and stinking smell. He that as yesterday did eat the choicest meats, and drank the most delicate drinks; is here become himself to be the meat of wretched and loath some Worms. O mortal men, let none put confidence in the delights of this life; Take example of him that lieth here buried: who having possessed them, observe how little while they continued. There is no confidence to be placed in any but in God and in things eternal: Let these terrene transitory worldly things be forgotten for his love and reverence. Let us follow good and holy works which endure for ever, that with them through his Grace and Mercy, we may obtain that eternal Life which endureth for ever, and ever. Amen.   

The third Epitaph.  
Here lieth buried the terror and fear of the Moors, Christians, and Gentiles, that ploughed up the Sea, and made the Land even and plain. He that subdued the Nations of the World. The example and pattern of benignity and mercy; and the right Rule of executing justice severely, for the chastisement of those which do not live virtuously: as the Sovereign God commandeth. Here resteth that liberal hand, that was never shut or closed to any that sought relief thereof. The Protector of the poor▪ the Father of the Orphans; the refuge of the Widows; the Zeal of Chastity; The Mirror of Honesty and Shamefastness accompanied with Modesty; The Pattern of Princes, the Model of Government; the Picture of p●ritie and cleanness; the. Type of Nobility; the preserver of truth in his Tongue; the Banisher of Lies; the true Lover of Learning; he that hath lest a living fame of himself for the future ages; and a worthy example of such lasting memory as Time cannot consume: which hath consumed the great deeds and exploits of Kings, Princes and Emperors, burying their memory in Oblivion. O ye Mortal Men, let us pray to our Sovereign God, that he vouchsafe to prosper and augment his memory for example of the Kings to come: that by imitation of him they may govern their Commonweals in Peace; directing us also to his holy Service; and filling us with his Grace. Amen.   

The fourth Epitaph.  
EVen as Gold is refined and purified in the Crusible placed on the fire, which discovereth the fineness thereof among the flames: So a sinful man who preserveth his patience in the persecution of this life, doth purify and perfect himself thereby.  
A man ought to consider that he was borne to suffer and her ●●ay, comfort himself in this that all the travails of this life, shall have an and with him at his death: and that only the good and holy works; are they which remain for ever being accepted and regarded of our Sovereign God.  
O man consider that he created thee for his service: and that thou ungratefully hast departed from him; without recompense of amends.  
Behold how luke warm thy love is towards him: and that of thy Creator towards thee is constant and true: having given thee thy being and accomplishment for his Mercy.  
Consider with how high a price he hough: thee; and gave thee means to save thyself by using well thy liberty and freedom: as he hath commanded thee.  
And therefore do I admonish thee that thou lose not the much for the little; the certain for the uncertain: for if so thou do, thou wilt find thyself deceived.  
Consider how Misery and Poverty consisteth not in the wanting of Parents, or Kindred, or of temporal goods: but in want of the favour of God and of his Benediction.