THE HISTORY OF Great Britanny Declaring the success of times and affairs in that Island, from the Romans first entrance, until the reign of EGBERT, the Westsaxon Prince; who reduced the several Principalities of the Saxons and English, into a Monarchy, and changed the name of Britanny into England. AT LONDON, Printed by Valentine Simmes. 1606. The Race and Succession of the Roman Emperors from julius Caesar to Domitius Nero. Sextus Caesar. 1 julius Caesar Dict. Perp. 3. years. Accius Balbus julia. C: Octa: Presid: of Maced: Accia Scribonia, the sister of L: Scribonius Libo: the first wife of Aug: 2 Oct: Augustus Emperor 56. years. Livia, the relict of Nero (father of Tiberius) the 2 wife of Aug julia, the wife of Vipsanius Agrippa. 3 Tiberius Nero, Emperor 23. years. Drusus Agrippina. Germanicus. 5 Claudius Nero, Emp: 13. years and 9 months. Valeria Messalian. 4 C: Ca●igula Emperor 3. years and 10 months. Agrippina, the wife of Dom: Nero. 6 Nero, Emperor 14 years. Britannicus. ❧ Lieutenant's in Britanny under the first five Emperors of Rome. During the several reigns of julius Caesar, Augustus, Tiberius, and Caius, the Romans had no settled form of government in any part of the I'll. Lieutenants under Claudius the Emperor. Aulus Plautius, (the first Lieutenant in Britanny.) Ostorius Scapula. Didius Gallus Auitus. ❧ The Princes, and men of special note among the Britan's. In the time of julius Caesar. Cassibelin Prince of the Trinobantes. Petty Rulers in Kent. Cingetorix. Carvilius. Taximagulus. Segonax. Mandubratius the Traitor, whose father Imanentins preceded Cassibelin in the government of the Trinobantes. Cunobelin, Prince of the Trinobantes, in the time of Augustus' Sons of Cunobelin, in the time of Caius. Admimus Cataracacus. Togodumnus, a son of Cunobelin, in the time of Aul. Plautius' government, under Claudius the Emperor. In the time of Ostorius Scapulaes' government under Claudius the Emperor. Cogidunus (advanced by the Romans) Caractacus, the renowned Prince of the Silureses. Cartismandua, Princess of the brigants. THese two Parts of the History, may seem not improperly to bear the name of Great Britanny, in that (for the most part) they contain certain general reports of the affairs of the whole Island, which was afterwards divided into the two Kingdoms of England and Scotland: Howbeit in the Second Part, the accidents and occurrents in the state of Scotland, (then called North-Britannie) are either purposely omitted, or touched very briefly, both to avoid confusion, by entermingling them with the imperfect relations of the dismembered governments of the Saxons and English, in the South parts of the I'll: and also (for that England and Scotland, having been (many hundred years) two distinct Monarchies, and that of Scotland the more ancient) it may be thought, perhaps, most meet, that there should be several Histories of the English and Scottish Nation, from the first erection of either Kingdom, until the union of them both: (the title of Britanny in the mean time remaining indifferent, as well to the one, as to the other.) The first Part is divided into three Books. The first Book. Declaring the state of Britanny under the Romans, from julius Caesar, his first entrance into the I'll, until the death of Claudius the Emperor; in whose time, the East part of the I'll was subdued, and brought into the form of a Province. The second Book. Declaring the state of Britanny under the Romans, from the death of Claudius the Emperor, until the reign of Domitian; in whose time, the utmost limits of the I'll were discovered, and the greatest part thereof reduced into a settled Provincial government. The third Book. Declaring the state of Britanny under the Romans, from the death of Domitian the Emperor, until the reign of Honorius; in whose time the I'll of Britanny was abandoned by the Romans, and the inhabitants thereof left wholly to their own government. The second Part is divided into two Books. The first Book. Declaring the state of affairs in Britanny after the Romans had given over the government there, until such time as the Saxons and English obtained it. The second Book. Containing an Epitome, or a short (imperfect) relation of the chief occurrents in every one of the seven Principalities of the Saxons, and English, until Egbert the Westsaxon Prince reduced them into a Monarchy. The beginning of the Reign of Egbert the first English Monarch. THE FIRST PART OF the History of Great Britanny. The first Book. C. JUL. CAESAR DICT. PERP. portrait of Julius Caesar The first CHAPTER. The Original of the Britan's. C. julius Caesar making war in Gallia, intendeth a voyage into Britanny. C. Volusenus is sent to discover the Sea Coasts of the I'll. The Nature, and customs of the Britan's. IT is recorded by the most true, and ancient of all Histories, that the Isles of the Gentiles, and north parts of the world, were first divided and inhabited, by the posterity of japhet; from whose eldest son called Goneer, the Cimbrians (as Writers report) derived their name and descent, imparting the same to the Gauls and Germans, and consequently to the Inhabitants of this I'll, as being originally descended from the Gauls, that came over hither at the first, either upon a natural desire (which men commonly have to discover places unknown, or to avoid the assaults of other Nations encroaching upon them; or haply to disburden their native soil, by seeking new habitations abroad. And this opinion of the Britan's first coming out of G●llia, seems the more probable, in regard both of the situation of this Island, in nearness to that continent, and also of the uniformity of language, religion and policy, between the most ancient gaul's, and Britan's. Touching the name of Britanny, with the Governors and state thereof before the Romans arrival, as they are things not to have been neglected, if any certain knowledge of them had been left us, by approved testimonies of former ages: so I think it not now requisite, either to recite the different conjectures of other men, or of myself, constantly to affirm any thing concerning the same; aswell for that those matters have been already handled at large by our modern Writers, as also for that I suppose, in aiming at such antic Originals (there being but one truth amidst many errors) a man may much more easily shoot wide, then hit the mark. I purpose therefore (omitting Etymologies of words, and variety of opinions concerning the first inhabitants and their doings) to take the name and affairs of this I'll, in such sort, as they were first known to the Romans, in the time of julius Caesar, when the Roman state, (which had tried all kinds of government, as namely that of Kings, then of Consuls, Tribunes, & Decemvirs) began to be usurped by a few, & soon after submitted itself to one. For about the four and fiftieth year before the birth of our Saviour Christ, Caesar being then governor of Gallia for the Senate and people of Rome, and having brought some part of that Country under obedience, intended a voyage with an army into Britanny, partly, upon pretence of revenge (for that the Britan's had divers times aided the Gauls in their wars against the Romans) and partly, to satisfy himself with sight of the Island, and knowledge of the Inhabitants, and their customs; whereto he might perhaps be the more readily induced, by reason of his own natural inclination to undertake great and difficult attempts, and with the increase of his own glory, to enlarge the limits of the Roman Empire, unto which at that time the sovereignty of the whole world was, by divine providence, allotted. And to this end he thought good to be first informed of the nature of the people, and of such havens in the I'll, as were most commodious to receive any shipping, that should come thither; which things were in a manner unknown to the Gauls, by reason the Islanders suffered none to have access to them, but merchants only; neither knew, even they, any other places, than the sea coasts, & those parts of the I'll, that confronted the continent of Gallia. Whereupon, Caesar supposing it necessary to make some discovery, before he adventured himself in the action, sent Caius Volusenus in a long Boat, with instructions to inquire of the quantity of the Island, of the conditions of the Inhabitants, of their manner of making war, of their government in peace, & what places were fittest for landing. After which dispatch made, himself with all his forces (which were newly returned from making war beyond the Rhine) marched into the Country of the a The ancient inhabitants of the Counties of Guines and Bolonois in Picardy. Morini, from whence was the shortest cut into Britanny: for there he had appointed his shipping to meet him. In the mean time, his purpose being known to the Britan's, by report of the Merchants (that traded with them,) diverse States of the I'll, (either fearing the greatness of the Roman power, or affecting innovation for some private respects) sent over Ambassadors, who promised, in their names, to deliver hostages, for assurance of their obedience to the people of Rome: But Caesar, though he was fully resolved to enter the Island, yet courteously entertained their offer, exhorting them to continue in that good mind, as a mean to draw on the rest, in following the example of their submission. For the better effecting whereof, he appointed Comius the chief Governor of the b The people of Artois. Atrebates (as a man, whose wisdom and faith he had tried, and whom he knew to be respected of the Britan's) to accompany the Ambassadors in their return, giving him in charge to go to as many Cities, as would permit him access; and to persuade the Rulers to submit themselves, as some of their Nation had already done: and further, to let them know, that himself with all convenient speed, would come thither. The Princes of the I'll, being as yet unacquainted with any civil kinds of government, maintained quarrels and factions amongst themselves, whereby, while one sought to offend another, and to enlarge his own part, by encroaching upon his neighbours (not observing, that what they gained in particular one of another, they lost all together in the general reckoning) they made an open passage in the end, for the Romans to conquer the whole, (a thing common to them with other Nations, who have found the like effects to proceed from the like causes.) For, the most part of the Britan's, in those days, delighted in war, neglecting husbandry, or perhaps not then knowing the use of it. Their manner of living, and customs, were much like to those of the inhabitants of Gallia. Their diet was such as Nature yielded of herself, without the industry of man: for though they had great store of cattle, yet they lived (especially in the inland Countries) with milk. It was held among them, as a thing unlawful, to eat of a hare, a hen, or a goose, and yet they nourished them all for recreations sake. Their apparel was made of the skins of beasts, though their bodies were (for the most part) naked and stained with woad, which gave them a bluish colour, and (as they supposed) made their aspect terrible to their enemies in battle. Their houses were compact of stakes, reeds, and boughs of trees, fastened together in a round circle. They had ten or twelve wives apiece common among them, though the issue were always accounted his, that first married the mother, being a maiden. They were, in stature, taller than the Gauls, in wit, more simple, as being less civil. By this time, Volusenus, (who durst not set foot on land to hazard himself amongst the barbarous Islanders) returned to Caesar, (namely, the fifth day after his setting forth) and made relation of such things as he had seen, and heard, by report, in roving up and down the coast in view of the Island. CHAP. II. Caesar saileth towards Britanny. The Britan's impeach his Landing. The great courage of Cassius Scoeva, one of Caesar's soldiers. Caesar having composed some tumults in the hither part of Gallia, that he might leave no enemy behind his back to annoy him in his absence, pursued the enterprise of Britanny, having, to that end, prepared a Navy, which consisted of about four score ships of burden (a number sufficient, as he thought, for the transportation of two Legions) besides his long boats, wherein the Quaestor, the Lieutenants, and other officers of the Camp were to be embarked. There were also eighteen ships of burden (that lay wind-bound about eight miles from the Port) appointed to waft over the horsemen. P. Sulpitius Rufus, a Lieutenant of a Legion, was commanded to keep the haven itself with such power, as was thought sufficient. These things being thus ordered, and a good part of the summer now spent, Caesar put out to sea about the third watch of the night, having given direction, that the horsemen should embark in the upper haven, and follow him; wherein, while they weresomewhat slack, Caesar with his shipping, about the fourth hour of the day, arrived upon the coast of Britanny, where he beheld the Cliffs possessed with a multitude of barbarous people, rudely armed, and ready to make resistance. The nature of the place was such, as by reason of the steep hills (enclosing the sea on each side in a narrow strait) it gave great advantage to the Britan's, in casting down their darts upon their enemies underneath them. Caesar finding this place unfit for landing his forces, put off from the shore, and cast anchor, expecting the rest of his Fleet; and in the mean time, calling a counsel of the Lieutenants, and Tribune's of the soldiers, he declared unto them, what he had understood by Volusenus, and directed what he would have done; warning them, that (as the state of the war, and specially the sea-service required) they would be ready to weigh anchor, and to remove, to, and fro (upon occasions) at a beck, and in an instant. This done, having advantage both of wind, and tide, he set forward with his Navy, about four Leagues from that place, and then lay at anchor in view of the open, and plain shore. But the Islanders, upon intelligence of the Romans purpose, had sent thither (before Caesar's coming) a company of horsemen and chariots called Esseda, (which they then used in their wars) and following afterwards with the rest of their forces, impeached their enemies from landing, whoseships, by reason of their huge bulks, (drawing much water) could not come near to the shore: so as the Roman soldiers were thereby enforcedin places unknown (their bodies being charged with their armour) to leap into the water, and encounter the Britan's, who assailed them nimbly with their darts, and drove their horses and chariots, with main force upon them: The Romans being therewith terrified, as men unacquainted with that kind of fight, failed much of the wont courage, which they had showed in their former land-services; and Caesar perceiving it, caused the long boats (which seemed more strange to the barbarous people, and were more serviceable, by reason of their swiftness in motion) to put off, by little and little, from the greater ships, and to row towards the shore, from whence they might more easily charge the Britan's, with their arrows, slings, and other warlike engines, which (being then unknown to the Islanders, as also the fashion of the ships, and motion of the oars in the long boats, having stricken them with fear and amazement) caused them to make a stand, and afterwards to draw back a little. But the Roman soldiers making no haste to pursue them, by reason of the water, which they suspected in some places to be deep and dangerous: the Standard-bearer of the Eagle of the Tenth Legion, praying, that his attempt might prove successful to the Legion, cried out with a loud voice in this manner. Fellow Soldiers, leap out of your boats and follow me, except you mean to betray your Standard to the enemy: For mine own part, I mean to discharge the duty I owe to the Common wealth, and to my General. This said, he cast himself into the water, and carried the Standard boldly against the Britan's. Whereupon, the soldiers exhorting one another to follow the Ensign, what fortune soever might befall) with common consent, leapt out of their long boats, one seconding another; and so, wading through the water, at length got to shore, where began a sharp and bloody fight on both sides: The Romans were much encumbered, by reason that they could neither keep their ranks, nor fight upon firm ground, nor follow their own standards; for every one as he came on land, ran confusedly to that which was next him. Some of the Britan's (who knew the flats, and shallow places, espying the Romans, as they came single out of their ships) pricked forward their horses, and set upon them, overlaying them with number, and finding them unwealdy and unready to make any great resistance, by reason of the depth of the water, and weight of their armour, while the greater part of the barbarous people with their darts assailed them fiercely upon the shore: which Caesar perceiving, commanded the Cock-boates and Skowts, to be manned with soldiers, whom he sent in all haste to rescue their fellows. There was a soldier of Caesar's company, called Cassius Scaeva, who, with some other of the same band, was carried in a small boat, unto a rock, which the ebbing sea, in that place, had made accessible. The Britan's espying them, made thitherward: the rest of the Romans escaping, Scaeva alone was left upon the rock, to withstand the fury of the enraged multitude, that assailed him with their darts, which he received upon his shield, and thrust at them with his spear, till it was broken, and his helmet and shield lost: then being tired with extreme toil, and dangerously wounded, he betook himself to flight, and, (carrying two light harnesses on his back) with much difficulty recovered Caesar's Tent, where he craved pardon for making so bold an attempt, without commandment of his General. Caesar did both remit the offence, and reward the offender, by bestowing upon him the office of a Centurion. This was the Scaeva, who afterwards gave good cause to have his name remembered in the Roman story, for 〈◊〉 memorable service he did to Caesar, in the time of the civil wars between him and Pompey, at the battle near Dyrrachium. The Romans having at length, got footing on dry land, gave a fresh charge upon the Britan's, and in the end, enforced them to turn their backs, and leave the shore, though they could not pursue them far into the Land, for want of horsemen, (Caesar's accustomed fortune failing him in this one accident.) CHAP. III. Some of the Britan's submit themselves to Caesar. The Romans Ships are scattered by tempest. The Britan's secretly revolt. THe Britan's, after this overthrow, assembling themselves together, (upon consultation had amongst them) sent Ambassadors to Caesar, promising to deliver in pledges, or to do whatsoever else he would command them. With these Ambassadors, came Comius of Arras, whom Caesar had sent before out of Gallia, into Britanny; where, having delivered the Message he had then in charge, he was apprehended, committed to prison, and now after the battle, released. The chief States of the Britan's, seeking to excuse their attempts, laid the blame upon the multitude, who being the greater number, and wilfully bend to take arms, could neither by persuasion, nor authority, be restrained: and they pretended their own ignorance, as being a free people, and not experienced in the customs of other Nations. Caesar, although he reproved them for making war in that manner, (considering that of their own accord, they had sent Ambassadors to him (before his arrival in Britanny) to desire peace: yet was content to pardon them, upon delivery of pledges, whereof some he received presently, and the rest being to come from remote places, he appointed to be sent in by a certain day; So the Britan's were dismissed to return into their Countries, and in the mean time there came diverse Princes from other parts of the I'll, to submit themselves and their Cities to Caesar. The fourth day, after the Romans landing, the ships before mentioned, appointed for transportation of Caesar's horsemen, having a favourable gale of wind, put out to the sea, from the upper haven, and approaching near the Island, in view of the Roman Camp, asodaine storm arose, and scattered them, driving some of them back again to the Port, from whence they came, and some others upon the lower part of the Island westward, where, after they had cast anchor, (their keels being almost overwhelmed with the waves,) they were carried, by violence of the storm in the night, into the main, and with very great peril, recovered a harbour in the continent. The same night, the Moon was at the full, at which time commonly, the Sea in those parts, is much troubled, and overfloweth the banks, by reason of the high tides, (a matter unknown to the Romans) insomuch, as the long boats, which transported the army, then lying upon the shore, were filled with the flood; and the ships of burden; that lay at anchor, were beaten with the storm, and split in pieces, the greater number of them perishing in the water, and the rest being made altogether unserviceable, (their anchors lost, and tackle broken:) Wherewith the Romans were much perplexed, for that they neither had any other ships to transport them back again, nor any means to repair what the tempest had ruined: and Caesar had formerly resolved to winter in Gallia, by reason he was unfurnished of victual to maintain his army during the winter season. Which being known to the chief States of the Britan's, (who had met together about the accomplishment of such things, as Caesar had commanded them) they supposed a fit opportunity was offered them to revolt, while the Romans wanted horsemen, shipping, and all manner of provisions; the number of their forces seeming also the less, in respect of the small circuit of their Camp, (Caesar having transported his Legions without any carriages, or such like warlike necessaries.) Whereupon they concluded to keep them from victual, and to prolong the war till winter; assuring themselves, that if they could either vanquish the Romans, or bar them from returning thence, there would no foreign Nation after them, adventure to set foot again in Britanny. And hereupon they conveyed themselves by stealth, out of the Roman Camp, and gathered company to them privily from divers parts, to make head against their enemies. CHAP. FOUR Caesar repaireth his Navy. A skirmish by land between the Britan's and Romans. The Britan's retire, and with new forces assail the Romans, but in the end are put to flight. Caesar returneth into France. CAEsar, albeit he were ignorant of the Britan's purpose, yet supposing that the state of his army, and the loss of his ships were known to them, and considering that they had broken day with him, in detaining the pledges contrary to the contract, he suspected that which afterwards proved true. And therefore to provide remedies against all chances, he caused Corn to be brought daily out of the fields into his Camp, and such ships as could not be made fit for service, were used to repair the rest, and such other things as were wanting thereto, he appointed to be brought out of the continent; by which means, and the diligence of his Soldiers, with the loss of twelve Ships, the rest of his Navy was made able to bear sail, and brook the Seas again. While these things were in doing, the Seventh Legion, (according to custom) was sent forth a foraging; till which time, the Britan's revolt was not certainly known, for that some of them remained abroad in the fields, & others came ordinarily into the Roman Camp. The Warders in the Station before the Camp, gave notice to Caesar, that the same way which the Legion went, there appeared a greater dust, than was wont to be seen. Caesar mistrusting some new practice of the Britan's, commanded the Companies (that kept ward) to march thither, appointing two others to supply their rooms, and the rest of his forces to arm themselves with speed and follow him. When he approached near the place descried, he perceived his soldiers to be overcharged with the Britan's, who assailed them on all sides with their darts. For the Britan's having conveyed their Corn from all other parts (this only excepted) and suspecting that the Romans would come thither, lay in the woods all night, to intercept them: and finding them dispersed, and unready, they suddenly set upon them, (as they were reaping) killing a few of them, and disordering the rest, with their horses and chariots. The manner of their fight in Chariots was thus; First, they used to ride round about their enemy's forces, casting their darts where they saw advantage, and oftentimes with the fierceness of their horses, & whirling of their Chariot wheels, they broke their enemy's ranks: and being gotten in among the troops of horsemen, they would leap out of their Chariots, and fight on foot. The Chariot-drivers in the mean time withdrew themselves by little and little out of the battle, and placed themselves in such sort, as their masters (being over-matched by their enemies) might readily recover their Chariots, so that in their fight they performed the offices, both of horsemen in swiftness of motion, and also of footmen in keeping their ground; and by daily use, and exercise, they were grown so expert in managing their horses, as, driving them forcibly down a steep hill, they were able to stay or turn them in the mid way, yea, to run along the beam, to stand firm upon the yoke, and to return thence speedily into their Chariots again. The Romans being much troubled with this new kind of fight, Caesar came in good time to the rescue. For upon his approach, the Britan's gave over the skirmish, yet keeping still their ground as masters of the field, and the Romans for fear, retired themselves to their General, who thought it no point of wisdom, to hazard his forces in a place unknown: but having stayed there awhile, conducted the Legions back again to his Camp, and in the mean time, the Britan's that were in the field, dispersed themselves, and shrunk away. After this there were for many days together, continual tempests, which kept the Romans in their camp, and hindered the Britan's from making any open attempt, though they sent messengers secretly into divers parts of the I'll, publishing abroad, what a small number of their enemies was left, what great hope there was of a rich booty, & what apparent likelihood of recovering their liberty, if they could drive the Romans from their Camp: And hereupon in short time they assembled a great number of horse and footmen, to put their purpose in execution. Against which, Caesar (understanding thereof) made preparation for defence, having gotten also about thirty horsemen (which Comius of Arras brought over with him) whose service he supposed very necessary, if the Britan's (according to their wonted manner) should seek to save themselves by flight. The Legions were placed in battle array before his Camp. Then the Britan's began the fight, which had not long continued, when they gave back, and fled, the Romans pursuing them as far as they durst, killing many whom they overtook, and burning houses and towns as they returned to their Campe. The same day the Britan's sent Ambassadors to Caesar, desiring peace, which after long suit, was granted, upon condition, that the number of the pledges (which was before required) should be now doubled, and speedily sent over into Gallia. For the equinoctial drawing near, Caesar made haste thither, doubting his crazed ships would not be well able to brook the Seas in winter: whereupon taking advantage of the next fair wind, he embarked his forces about midnight, and with the greatest part of his Fleet, arrived in the continent. The Roman Senate (upon relation of these his services) decreed a Supplication for him, for the space of twenty days. CHAP. V. Caesar's second expedition into Britanny. The Britan's fortify themselves in a wood, from whence they are chased by the Romans. Caesar's Navy distressed by tempest. IN the spring of the year following, Caesar having pacified some tumults in Gallia, prosecuted the enterprise of Britanny, and to that end he had prepared a Fleet of new ships, well appointed, and commodiously built for landing his forces (the want whereof he had found before, to his great loss) and a sufficient army consisting of five Legions, and a proportional number of horse, which he embarked at * Calais. Portus Iccius about the Sunsetting, having a fair Southern wind to set them forward; which failing them about midnight, the tide diverted their course, so as in the morning he discovered the Island on his left hand: and then following the turning of the tide, he commanded his soldiers to use their Oars that they might reach that part of the I'll, where they had found best landing the Summer before; wherein they took such pains, as their ships of burden kept way with their long boats and lighter vessels. About noon they landed on the shore, where there appeared no man to make resistance: the cause whereof was (as Caesar afterwards learned by such prisoners, as he took) for that the Britan's having assembled themselves together in arms at the Sea side, were so terrified with the sight of the ships (which of all sorts were esteemed above eight hundred sail) that they left the shore, and ran to hide themselves in the upland Country. Caesar (upon intelligence by fugitives, where the British forces lay) leaving at the Sea side, ten Cohorts, and three hundred horse to grave the ships then lying at Anchor, (whereof Quintus Atrius had the charge) marched forward with the rest of his army in the night, about twelve miles into the land, where he espied a multitude of Britan's flocked together near a river, having gotten the upper ground, from whence they began to charge the Romans with their horse and Chariots; but being repulsed by Caesar's horsemen, they fled, and hid themselves in the woods, in a place which being notably strengthened both by Nature and Art, they had used as a fortress in their civil wars among themselves. For by reason there were many great trees cut down, and laid overthwart the passages round about, there could hardly any entrance be found into the wood; howbeit the Britan's themselves would oft times sally forth upon advantage, and impeach the Romans, where they attempted to enter. Hereupon Caesar commanded the Soldiers of the Seventh Legion to make a * A warlike engine made of boards, covered over with raw hides, to serve for defence against fire, or stones in scaling a wall. Testudo, and to raise a Mount against the place; by which means, after loss of men on both sides, the Romans in the end got the Fort, & chased the Britan's out of the wood; but Caesar would not suffer his Soldiers to pursue them far, in regard the place was unknown, and a great part of the day being then spent, he thought it fit to bestow the rest in fortifying his Campe. The next day in the morning, he sent out horsemen and footmen three several ways to pursue them that fled; but, before they had gotten sight of the Britan's, certain horsemen sent from Quintus Atrius (who had charge of the shipping) brought news, that a great tempest the night before had distressed his ships, and beaten them upon the shore, their Anchors and Cables being not able to hold them, nor the mariners to guide them, or to endure the force of the storm. Whereupon Caesar caused the Legions, and horsemen to be sent for back again, and marched with speed towards the sea side, where he found his Navy in ill plight; forty of his ships being clean cast away, and the rest with great difficulty seeming likely to be recovered. For effecting whereof, he took some Shipwrights out of the Legions, and sent for others out of the continent; writing to Labienus (who had the charge of certain Legions there, and the guard of Portus Iccius) that he should prepare as many ships as he could, to be sent over unto him with expedition. And though it were a work of great toil; yet he thought it necessary to have all the ships haled on shore, and to be brought into the camp, where his land-forces lay, that one place might be a safeguard to them both. In the accomplishment hereof he spent ten days (the soldiers scarce intermitting their labour in the night time, till all was finished. CHAP. VI Cassibelin is chosen by the Britan's to be their Leader. The Britan's assail the Romans, but with ill success. Caesar with his army wadeth over the river of Thames. CAEsar having fortified his Camp, and left there the same forces (which were before appointed to keep the harbour) returned to the place, whence he dislodged upon Atrius his advertisement, where he found the number of the Britan's much increased by confluence of people from sundry parts within the Island. The chief commandment & direction for the war, was by public consent of the States of th'isle, assigned to Cassibelin; the bounds of whose territory were divided from the maritime Cities, by the river Thamisis, & were distant from the Sea about fourscore miles. There had been of long time continual war between him, and some other Princes of the Countries near adjoining: but now (both parts fearing to be overrun by a foreign enemy) neglected private respects, and joined their forces together, appointing him to be their leader, as a man of whose valour, and sufficiency in militare affairs they had good experience. The Roman army being come in view of their enemy's Camp, the Britan's pressed forward to begin the fight with their horsemen and Chariots, and Caesar sent out his horsemen to encounter them, so as the battle was maintained with great resolution on both parts, and the event thereof seemed doubtful, till in the end, the Britan's gave ground, and fled through the woods to the hills, many of them being slain in the chase, and some of the Romans also, who adventerously pursued them too far. Not long after, while the Romans (suspecting no danger) were occupied in fortifying their camp, the Britan's sallied suddenly out of the woods, and made an assault upon the Warders, that kept station before the Camp, to whose aid Caesar sent out two Cohorts (the chief of two Legions) which making a lane through the midst of the British forces, joined themselves with their distressed fellows, and rescued them from the peril, though Quintus Laberius Durus, a Tribune of the Soldiers was slain in that enterprise. But new Cohorts coming to supply the former, the Britan's were repulsed, and sought to save themselves by flight. By the manner of this skirmish, (which was fought in view of the Roman Camp) the Romans perceived the advantage, which the Britan's had of them, and how ill themselves were appointed for such a kind of fight, when by reason of the weight of their armour, they could neither pursue such as fled, nor durst leave their Ensigns, nor were able (without great disadvantage) to encounter the British horsemen, which oft times gave ground of purpose; and having withdrawn themselves by little and little from the Legions, would leap out of their chariots and fight on foot; the manner of their fight with horses and Chariots, being alike dangerous to those that retired, and those that pursued. Besides, they divided their forces into companies (when they fought) and had several stations, with great distances between them, one troup seconding an other, and the sound and fresh men yielding supplies to the wounded and weary. The day following the Britan's were descried upon the hills a far off, scattered here and there in great numbers together, being not very forward to begin a new fight, till Caesar having sent out three Legions, and all his horsemen, under the conduct of C. Trebonius the Lieutenant, to go a foraging, they flocked suddenly together from all parts, and set upon the foragers, not sparing to assail the Ensigns and Legions themselves, who strongly resisted them, and made them turn their backs, when the Roman horsemen also eagerly pursued them, never giving over the chase (as being confident in the aid of the Legions that followed them) until they had driven them headlong before them, killing all those they overtook, and giving the rest no time, either to gather themselves together, or to make a stand, or once to forsake their Chariots. After this overthrow, many of the barbarous people (who had come from divers parts to aid their Countrymen) shrunk away; and Caesar understanding, what course the rest of the Britan's meant to hold in prosecuting the war, led his army to the bounds of Cassibelins' Country, upon the River of Thames, which was passable on foot, in one place only and that with some difficulty. When he came thither, he perceived that the Britan's had great forces in readiness on the further side of the River, the banks whereof were fortified with sharp pointed stakes, or piles, (about the bigness of a man's thigh, and bound about with lead,) pitched near the shore, to impeach their passage; and some others of the same kind (the remnants whereof are to be seen at this day) were planted covertly under water in the main River. Whereof Caesar having intelligence (by some Fugitives, and prisoners that he had taken) commanded the horsemen, first, to enter the River, and the Legions to follow, so as (the dangerous places being discovered) the Romans waded through (their heads only appearing above water) and charged the Britan's with such violence, as they forced them to forsake the shore, and betake themselves to flight. CHAP. VII. The Britan's surprise the Roman horsemen. The treachery of Mandubratius the Britain, whom Caesar protecteth. Cassibelin wearied with ill success of the war, submitteth himself to Caesar. Tribute imposed upon the Britan's. Caesar saileth into France. CAssibelin seeing no likeli-hood to maintain the war any longer by force, dismissed the greater part of his power, and keeping with him about four thousand Chariots only, retired into the woods, and places of most safety, driving men and cattle before him out of the fields, all that way, by which he knew the Romans should pass with their army, whose horsemen (as they roved up and down to take booties) he surprised with his Chariots, and distressed them in such sort, as they durst not march forward, but keeping themselves in their strength, gave over their former purpose, and from thenceforth sought only to annoy the Britan's, by spoiling and burning their houses and towns. In the mean time the a The ancient Inhabitants of Middlesex and Essex. Trinobantes, one of the chief States in those parts, sent Ambassadors to Caesar, promising to submit themselves, and to be at his commandment. There was also one Mandubratius, who had fled over to Caesar, when he was in Gallia, and was now become a follower of his fortune, while preferring the satisfaction of his own discontented humour, before the advancement of the common cause, he served as an instrument, to betray his native Country, abusing the credit which he had with his Countrymen, by working their submission, to his own dishonour, and the advantage of a foreign enemy. His father Imanentius, (having been sometimes chief ruler of the City of the Trinobantes, and well esteemed among them) was slain by Cassibelin the present Governor, against whom the Citizens desired Caesar to protect Mandubratius, and to commit unto him the government of their City; which Caesar granted upon delivery of a certain number of pledges, and a sufficient proportion of victual for provision of his Army. Hereupon divers petty States there about, sent Ambassadors, and yielded themselves to Caesar, who understood by them, that Cassibelin his Town (being well stored with men, and cattle,) was not far from thence. This town (as all others so called of the Britan's in those days) was only a circuit of ground enclosed with woods, and marshes, or else entrenched with a rampire of earth about it. Caesar coming with his Legion to this place, (which he found very strong, as being fortified, both naturally, and also by the industry of man) began to assail it on both sides. The Britan's having expected a while the event of the enterprise, and perceiving themselves unable to withstand the assault, issued out at a back way, where many of them being slain, and some taken (as they fled,) the town itself, and all the provisions within it, were left as a spoil to the Romans. While these things were in doing among the Trinobantes, Cassibelin dispatched messengers into the country of a Kent. Cantium, that lies upon the sea. The inhabitants of those parts were then more civil, and better furnished to make war than any other of the I'll. The country at that time was governed by four Kings, (as Caesar himself calleth them) either for that they had among them a kind of absolute government in several, or else, for that being the Register of his own acts, he supposed it would be more for his glory to be reputed a conqueror of Kings. Their names were Cingetorix, Carvilius, Taximagulus, and Segonax, whom Gassibelin then required to raise all the power they could make, and on the sudden to assail the Roman forces, that guarded their ships at the sea side. This was attempted accordingly, but with ill success, for that the Romans having timely advertisement of their purpose, prevented the execution thereof, by setting upon them as they drew near the Roman army; and so, after a great slaughter made of the Britan's (Cingetorix a noble captain, and one of their Princes being taken prisoner) the Romans returned in safety to their Campe. Cassibelin, hearing of the unhappy issue of this enterprise, after so many losses sustained on his part, (his Country being wasted with war) and himself in a manner forsaken, by the revolt of the cities round about, (which most of all discouraged him) sent Ambassadors to Caesar by Comius of Arras, offering to submit himself upon reasonable conditions. Caesar determining to winter in Gallia (the state of his affairs there requiring it) and the summer being almost spent, commanded that he should deliver certain pledges for assurance of his obedience, and that he should offer no wrong, nor give cause of offence to Mandubratius, or the Trinobantes, whom he had taken into special protection. And then having imposed a Tribute, to be paid yearly by the Britan's, to the people of Rome, he marched towards the seaside, where he embarked his forces, and arrived with them safely in the continent. Thus Caesar having rather showed some part of Britanny to the Romans, than made a conquest of the whole: supposed he had done sufficiently for his own glory, in undertaking a matter so rare and difficult in those times. At his coming to Rome, he presented there certain captives (which he had taken in the British wars) whose strangeness of shape and behaviour filled the people's eyes, both with wonder, and delight. He offered also in the Temple of Venus genetrix a surcote embroidered with British Pearl, as a Trophy, and spoil of the Ocean, leaving to posterity a perpetual remembrance of his enterprise in this Island, to the honour, both of his own name, and of the Roman nation. CHAP. VIII. Augustus succeed julius Caesar in the Empire. The state of the Britan's in his time under Cunobelin their Governor. The first British coin. The birth of our Saviour Christ. Tiberius the Emperor forbeareth to attempt any thing in Britanny. AFter the death of julius Caesar (by reason of the civil wars among the Romans) the I'll of Britanny was for a time neglected, and Augustus Caesar being settled in the Empire (which was then grown to such greatness, as it seemed even cumbered therewith) accounted it good policy to contain the same within his known bounds: Besides, the attempt was like to prove dangerous, and a matter of very great expense, to send an army so far off, to make war with a Barbarous Nation, for desire of glory only (no special cause besides moving thereto.) Howbeit (as some writer's report) about twenty years after julius Caesar's first entrance, Augustus intended a voyage hither in person, alleging for pretence of the war, the wrong offered to the Roman state, by such princes of the I'll as had for certain years withheld the tribute, which Caesar his predecessor had imposed. Upon intelligence whereof, the Britan's sent over Ambassadors, who meeting the Emperor in a The Countries between the rivers Garonne, and Seine in France. Gallia Celtica, declared their submission, and desired pardon: And the better to win favour, they had carried over certain gifts of good value, to be presented, as offerings in the Roman Capitol (having already learned the Art to flatter for advantage, and to appease Princes by rewards.) Hereupon, a conditional peace was granted them, and the Emperor having pacified some troubles in Gallia, returned to Rome. Then began the Islanders to pay Tribute, and custom for all kind of wares which they exchanged with the Gauls, as namely Ivory boxes, Iron chains, and other trinkets of Amber, and glass, which were transported to and fro both out of Gallia, and Britanny. They are following, the Britan's having failed in performance of conditions, he prepared for another expedition; but being set forward on his voyage, the revolt of the b The Biscayans. Cantabrians, and c The ancient inhabitants between Gallicia and Portugal. Asturians, stayed him from proceeding any further therein. After which time the Britan's were left to themselves, to enjoy their liberty, and use their own laws without impeachment by foreign invaders; for that the Romans (having found the sweetness of peace, after long civil wars) sought rather to keep in obedience such Provinces as had been before time brought under subjection, then by attempting new conquests, to hazard the loss of that they had already gotten. In those days the Country of the Trinobantes in Britanny, was governed by Cunobelin, who kept his residence at d Malden in Essex. Camalodunum. He began first to reclaim the Britan's from their rude behaviour: and to make his estate more respected, he afterwards caused his own Image to be stamped on his Coin after the manner of the Romans, man's (a custom never used among the Britan's before his days, and but then newly received by the Romans themselves; for before that time the Britan's used Rings of Iron, and little plates of brass of a certain weight in stead of coin. During the time of his government, the divine mystery of human redemption was accomplished by the birth of our Saviour Christ, (Augustus Caesar then possessing the Roman Empire, which he afterwards left to Tiberius his adopted son, a wary and politic Prince, who following the advice and example of Augustus, did never attempt any thing in Britanny, nor maintain any garrison there: howbeit the Britan's at that time were well affected to the Romans, as appeared by the entertainment, which their petty Princes gave to some Soldiers of the Roman army in Germany, who in crossing the seas, were by force of weather cast upon the coast of Britanny, and from thence in courteous manner sent back to Germanicus their General. CHAP. IX. The ridiculous expedition of Caius Caligula the Emperor, intending a voyage into Britanny. His vainglory and cruelty. CAius Caligula succeeding Tiberius in the Empire, had a meaning doubtless to have invaded the I'll of Britanny, had not his rash entrance into the action, and his ill success in the Germane war, overthrown the enterprise; by reason whereof he brought nothing to effect, but only made a ridiculous expedition, (answerable to the vanity of his humour) bringing an army into the hither parts of Belgia, and there having received into protection Adminus (whom Cunobelin his father had banished) and certain other British Fugitives, that came with him) he writ vaunting Letters to the Senate, as though the whole Island had yielded itself, having given special charge to the Messenger, that his letters should be carried in a Chariot to the Forum, and not delivered to the Consuls, but in a full Senate, and in the Temple of Mars. Afterwards drawing his forces down to the sea coasts of Belgia (whence with wonder he beheld the high Cliffs of the I'll possessed with barbarous people) he placed his Soldiers in battle array upon the shore, and himself entering into a long Boat, was rowed a little way upon the Sea. But not daring to adventure further, he returned speedily to land, and then commanding a charge to be founded, as though he would have begun a fight, he appointed his Soldiers to gather Cockles, and muscles in their Helmets, terming them spoils of the Ocean, and meet to be preserved, as offerings due to the Capitol. For this exploit, he afterwards at his coming to Rome, was not ashamed to demand a Triumph, and divine honours to be assigned him; but finding the Senators, for the most part, unwilling to give their assent, he burst out into threats, and had slain some of them in the place, if they had not speedily avoided his fury. After this, himself in open assembly made a declaration of his journey, and what adventures he had passed in the conquest of the Ocean (as himself vainly termed it) whereat the common people, either for fear, or flattery, gave a general applause; which he (taking it as a testimony of their desire to have him placed among their gods) rewarded in this shameful manner: He caused a great quantity of gold and silver to be scattered on the ground, and certain poisoned caltrop's of Iron to be cast among them, whereby many were killed, partly with those envenomed engines, and partly with the press one of another (each man being earnest in gathering, and supposing another man's gain his own loss:) So naturally was he inclined to all kinds of mischief, as he spared not the lives even of those, whom he thought to deserve best at his hands. CHAP. X. Claudius' succeeding Caius in the Empire, sendeth Aulus Plautius with an army out of France into Britanny. The Roman soldiers are unwilling to be transported thither: and entering into mutiny, are appeased by Narcissus the emperors favourite. Plautius chargeth the Britan's, and taketh Cataratacus their captain prisoner, for which he afterwards triumpheth. Claudius' the Emperor, with better advice than Caius his predecessor, and with much better fortune, undertook the action in the third year of his reign; and first, by persuasion of Bericus a British fugitive, and others, whom the Romans had received into their protection (a matter that much discontented the Britan's, & stirred them up to revolt) he sent Aulus Plautius a Roman Senator, a man well experienced in militare affairs, to take charge of the Army then remaining in Gallia, and to transport it into the Island, whereat the Soldiers grudged, complaining, that they should now make war out of the world, and by protracting time with unnecessary delays, they discovered openly their unwillingness to enter into the service, till Narcissus a favourite of Claudius, being sent to appease them, went up into Plautius his Tribunal seat, and there in an Oration, declared to the Soldiers the causes of his coming, & exhorted them not to shrink, for fear of uncertain dangers: That the enterprise itself, the more perillons it seemed, the more honourable it would be to achieve it: that themselves were the men whom the heavens had ordained to enlarge the bounds of the Roman Empire, and to make their own names famous in the utmost parts of the earth. But the Soldiers at the first being moved with disdain, cried out in seditious manner (Io. Saturnalia,) as though they had been then ready to solemnize a feast, at which the Custom was, that servants should wear their masters apparel, and represent their persons. Howbeit Narcissus giving way to their fury for the present, did afterwards prevail so far with them, as partly for shame, and partly for hope of reward, they seemed content to follow Plautius, whither soever he would conduct them. Then were the a Soldiers that were Citizens of Rome. and b Soldiers of foreign nations in league with the Romans. auxiliary soldiers divided into three parts, so to be embarqned, to the end, that if they should be impeached in one place, they might land in another. In crossing the Sea, their ships were shaken, and beaten back with a contrary wind; albeit their courage failed not, but rather increased, by reason of a fiery leam shooting from the East towards the West (the self same way that they directed their course) which they interpreted as a token of good success. And thereupon hoisting sail, they set forward again, and with some difficulty (through the contrariety of wind and tide,) arrived in the Island without any resistance, by reason that the Britan's doubted not their coming; but then finding themselves surprised on the sudden, they ran dispersedly to hide themselves in Woods and Marshes, holding it their best course, rather to prolong the war, and weary their enemies by delays, then to encounter them in the open field. But Plautius with much labour and hazard found out at length, their chief place of retreat, where he killed many of them, and took prisoner Cataratacus their Captain, one of the Sons of Cunobelin, (not long before deceased.) For this exploit the Roman Senate did afterwards grant him a Triumph, which the Emperor Claudius honoured with his own person, accompanying him as he went up into the Capitol. CHAP. XI. Plautius' the Lieutenant pursueth the service in Britanny. Vespasian (serving under him) was in danger to have been slain, or taken, by the Britan's, if he had not been rescued by Titus his son. The Britan's pass over the river of Thames, and assail the Romans that follow them. Togodumnus a British Prince is slain in the fight. Plautius' being in distress, desisteth for a time from further prosecution of the war. THe a The ancient inhabitants of the Counties of Gloucester and Oxford. Boduni (then living under the government of the b The ancient iuhabitants of the Counties of Buckingham, Bedford, and Hartford. Cattieuchlani) betook themselves to the protection of Plautius, who leaving garrisons in those parts, marched towards a river, over which the Britan's supposed that the Romans could not pass without a Bridge, and therefore imagined themselves safe, having pitched their Camp on the other side of the water. But Plautius sent over certain Germans (who being accustomed to swim over rivers with swift currents even in their armour) found an easy passage to the further bank, and there set upon the Britan's, wounding the horses which drew their Chariots, and by that means overthrowing their riders, and disordering their whole power. ●hen was Flavius Vespasian (who had the leading of the Second Legion, and Sabinus his brother, appointed to pass over, and to charge them on a sudden as they were dispersed. Some of the Britan's being slain, and some taken prisoners, the night made an end of the skirmish. The next morning the rest of the dispersed rout showed themselves upon the shore, and gave occasion of a new fight, which continued a long time, with equal advantage, till C. Sydius Geta being in danger to have been taken, recovered himself, and at the last enforced the Britan's to retire; For which service he had afterwards Triumphal honours assigned him, although he were no Consul. In this conflict Vespasian (being beset round about by the barbarous people) was in great danger, either to have been slain, or taken, if he had not been timely rescued by Titus his son, who then exercised the office of a Tribune of the Soldiers, and began in his tender years to give some proof of his valour. After this battle, the Britan's withdrew themselves to the mouth of the river Thamisis, near the place where it falls into the sea, and being skilful in the shallows and firm grounds, passed over in safety, whenas the Romans that pursued them, (not knowing the dangerous places) were oft times in great hazard. Some of the Germans that were most forward to adventure (by reason of their skill in swimming) assoon as they had got to the further shore, were compassed about and killed by the barbarous people, and the rest of the Roman army that followed, was much distressed in the passage, and sharply assailed at their coming on land; where began a bloody fight, in the which Togodumnus a British Prince, one of Cunobelins' sons was slain; whose death did nothing abate the courage of the Britan's, but rather inflamed them with desire of revenge: for the effecting whereof, they gathered together new forces, from divers parts of the I'll. Plautius' fearing the greatness of their power, and being straightened in a place of disadvantage, and danger, proceeded no further at that time, but fortifying only such towns as he had already taken, advertised Claudius of the doubtful state of his affairs. CHAP. XII. The valour and fortune of Vespasian in the British war. He subdueth the I'll of Wight. The Expedition of Claudius the Emperor into Britanny. He defeateth the Britan's, and planteth a Colony of old soldiers at Maldon in Essex. His son is surnamed Britannicus. At his return to Rome, he is honoured with a Triumph. The Christian faith first received in Britanny, in the reign of Claudius. IN the mean time, Vespasian was employed in other places of the I'll, where fortune seemed to lay the foundation of that greatness, unto which he afterwards attained; For in a short space, he fought thirty times with the Britan's, overcoming two warlike nations, and taming the fierce a The ancient Inhabitants of the counties of Somerset, Wilton, and Southampton. Belgae, whose ancestors, coming hither at the first out of Gallia Belgica, either to take booties, or to make war, gave the name of their own Country to such places as they had subdued: (a custom commonly used among the Gauls, when they seated themselves in any part of this Island.) With like fortunate success Vespasian proceeded in attempting, and conquering the Isle b The I'll of Wight. Vectis, that lieth on the South side of Britanny, when Claudius the Emperor being now furnished of all things necessary for the British expedition, set forward with a mighty army, consisting of horsemen, footmen, and Elephants. He marched first to Ostia: from thence to Massilia: the rest of the voyage he made by land to a Bolein in Picardy. Gessoriacum in Gallia, where he embarked. His forces being safely transported into the I'll, were led towards the river Thamisis, where Plautius and Vespasian with their power attended his coming; so the two armies being joined together, crossed the river again. The Britan's that were assembled to encounter them, began the fight, which was sharply maintained on both sides, till in the end, a great number of the Islanders being slain, the rest fled into the woods, through which the Romans pursued them, even to the town of b Maldon in Essex. Camalodunum, which had been the royal seat of Cunobelm, and was then one of the most defensible places in the dominions of the Trinobantes. This town they surprised, and afterwards fortified, planting therein a Colony of old soldiers, to strengthen those parts and to keep the inhabitants there in obedience. Then were the Britan's disarmed, howbeit Claudius' remitted the confiscation of their goods; for which favour the barbarous people erected a Temple and an Altar unto him, honouring him as a god. Now the States of the country round about, being so weakened by the loss of their neighbours, and their own civil dissensions, as they were unable to resist the Roman power any longer, began to offer their submission, promising to obey, and live peaceably under the Roman government; and so, by little, and little, the hither part of the I'll was reduced into the form of a Province. In honour of this victory, Claudius was diverse times saluted by the name of Imperator, contrary to the Roman custom, which permitted it but once for one Expedition. The Senate of Rome also, upon advertisement of his success, decreed, that he should be called Britannicus, and that his son should have the same title, as a surname proper and hereditary to the Claudian family. M●ssalma his wife (the monster of her sex for impudency and lascivious life) had the first place in counsel assigned her, (as Livia the wife of Augustus sometimes had) & was also licensed to ride in a Chariot. At his return to Rome (which was the sixth month after his departure thence, having continued but sixteen days only in the I'll, he entered the city in a Triumph) performed with more than usual ceremonies of state, whereat certain Precedents of Provinces, and banished men were permitted to be present. On the top of his palace was placed a Crown set with stems, and foreparts of ships, which the Romans called (Corona navalis) as a sign of the conquest of the Ocean. Divers Captains that had served under him in Britanny, were honoured with Triumphal ornaments; Yearly plays were appointed for him, and two Arches of Triumph adorned with Trophies were erected, the one at Rome, the other at Gessoriaoum, (where he embarked for Britanny) to remain to succeeding ages, as perpetual records of his victory; So great a matter was it then accounted, and a work of such merit, to have subdued so small a part of the Island. About this time (as it may be probably conjectured Christian Religion being yet green, and of small growth, began to cast forth some small sparkles of her brightness in the I'll of Britanny: whither Christians of Rome, and other Countries (then flying persecution) resorted for safety, and quietness, as to a place remote, and by reason of the wars, and troubles there, not much subject to Inquisition: whenas also divers Britan's remaining at Rome (where Christianity then increased) either for hostages, or detained as prisoners, or haply for some private respects of profit, and pleasure, had opportunity and liberty to converse with the Roman Christians, and to be by them instructed, and confirmed in the faith of Christ. CHAP. XIII. Ostorius Scapula is sent by Claudius the Emperor to succeed Plautius in the office of Lieutenancie. The Britan's in divers parts of the I'll take arms, but are speedily suppressed. The Roman General seeketh by lenity to purchase the good opinion of the Britan's. IN these terms stood the state of Britanny, when Plautius the Lieutenant was revoked, and the prosecution of the war committed to P. Ostorius Scapula, who at his landing found all in an uproar, the Britan's (that were yet unconquered,) ranging the Confederates country, and using the greater violence, for that they supposed the new Captain, as unacquainted with his army (the winter also being then begun) would not come forth to encounter them; but he knowing well, that in such cases, the first success breedeth, either fear, or confidence, drew together with speed his readiest Cohorts, and made towards them, slaying such as resisted, and pursuing the residue, (whom he found straggled abroad) lest they should make head again. And, that a faithless and cloaked peace might not give, either the Captain, or soldier any time of idle repose, he disarmed all those whom he suspected, and hemmed them in with Garrisons between a Nen, the river on which Northampton is seated (as it is conjectured.) Antona, and b I he river of Severne. Sabrina. The first that began to stir, were the c The ancient Inhabitants of Norfolk, Suffo●k, Cambridgeshire, and Huntingtonshire. Icenians, a strong people, and unshaken with wars, as having of their own accord in former times, sought the Romans alliance and amity. The Countries also adjoining near unto them, following their example, prepared themselves to fight, choosing a place that was compassed about with a rude trench, which had a narrow entrance to impeach the coming in of horsemen. That fence the Roman Captain, (although he wanted the strength of the Legions) went about to force with the aid of the Confederates alone; and having placed his Cohorts in ranks, he set his Troops of horsemen also in like readiness: Then giving the sign of battle, he assailed the Rampire, and broke it, disordering the Britan's, who being striking with a kind of remorse for their rebellious attempts, and seeing the passages stopped up on all sides, showed very great courage and valour in defending themselves (as it falleth out oft times, where extremity of danger itself takes away all fear of danger.) In this fight M. Ostorius the lieutenants son was crowned with an Oaken Garland, as an honourable reward for saving a Roman Citizen. Now by the slaughter of the Icenians, the rest of the Britan's (who stood upon doubtful terms, as wavering between war and peace) were well quieted, and Ostorius led his army against the d The Inhabitants of a part of Chessh●●e (as it is conjectured.) Cangi, whose country he spoiled and wasted while the inhabitants durst not come into the field, but privily surprised such as they found straggling behind the Roman army, which was now come near the sea coast, that looks toward Ireland, whenas certain tumults stirred among the e The Inhabitants of Yorkshire, Lancashire, Durham, Westmoreland and Cumberland. brigants, brought back the General, who thought it best, not to enter into any new action, before he had made all sure in those parts; howbeit, upon his coming thither, some few of the brigants (that first began to take arms) being taken and put to death, the residue were pardoned, and the Country quieted. For the General wisely considering, that in such cases, lenity sometimes prevaileth, where force and rigour cannot, did seek to win favour of the Britan's by courteous usage of such, as either fled unto him for protection, or else, by the fortune of war fell into his hands, sometimes pardoning them, sometimes rewarding them, and sometimes using them in service against their own nation, as he did Cogidunus a British Prince, upon whom he had bestowed certain Cities in free gift, according to an ancient custom among the Romans, who used even Kings themselves for instruments of bondage. But the a The ancient Inhabitants of South-wales. Silures could neither by cruelty, nor fair means be held in, so as the General saw there was no way to keep them under, but with a garrison of legionary Soldiers; and to that end the Colony at Camalodunum (consisting of a strong company of old Soldiers) was brought into the subdued Country, to defend it against such as should rebel, and to make the confederates more willing to live in obedience. CHAP. XIIII. Ostorious the Roman General maketh war upon the Silureses and Ordovices, the ancient Inhabitants of South-wales, and North-wales. Caractacus their captain being overthrown in battle, flieth for succour to Cartismandua the Princess of the brigants, who then inhabited that part of the Isle which now containeth the counties of York, Lancaster, Durham, Westmoreland, and Cumberland. He is betrayed and delivered to Ostorius. THen the army marched against the Silureses, who besides their natural boldness, relied much upon the strength of Caractacus their leader, a man that had waded through great dangers, and had been fortunate in many adventures, having gotten thereby such reputation, as he was preferred before all the British captains. But as in policy and knowledge of the country, he had an advantage of the Romans: so perceiving himself to be unequally matched in strength, he removed the war to the a The ancient Inhabitants of North-wales. Ordovices, who entering into the action with him, (as fearing alike the Roman power) resolved jointly to hazard the chance of war. And hereupon they prepared for battle, having chosen a place very commodious for themselves, and disadvantageable for their enemies. Then they went to the top of an hill, and where they found any easy passage up, they stopped the way with heaps of stones, in manner of a rampire. Not far off, ran a River with an uncertain ford, where, upon the bank, a company of the best soldiers were placed, for a defence in the forward. The leaders went about, exhorting, and encouraging the common soldiers, using such persuasions as might best fit their humours, and the present occasion; and Caractacus himself, coursing up and down, protested, that that day, and that battle, should be either the beginning of recovery of liberty, or of perpetual servitude. Then he called upon the names of his ancestors, that had chased Caesar the Dictator out of the I'll, and had delivered them from hatchets, and Tributes, and protected their wives and children from shame and violence. While he uttered these, or the like speeches, the people round about him made a noise, and every man swore, according to the religion of his Country, that neither their enemies weapons, nor their own wounds, should make them to give over. That cheerful cry, terrified and astonished the Roman General, and the rather, when he considered how he was cooped in, having the river beneath him, the fort before him, the high hills hanging over it, and all things on every side threatening danger and destruction to the assailers. Howbeit his soldiers demanded the battle, crying, That there was nothing which valour could not overcome. The Prefects and Tribunes, using the like speeches, added courage to the rest. Then Ostorius having viewed the places of difficult access, led his Soldiers (being hot and eager of the fight) unto the further side of the river, and from thence to the Rampire, where while they fought with their Darts, they had the worst, but having broken down the rude compacted heap of stones with a Testudo, and both armies coming to handy strokes upon equal advantage, the Britan's turned their backs, and ran to the hill top, the Romans pursuing them, both with their light and heavy armed soldiers, the one assailing with darts, and the other (as they marched thick together) breaking the ranks, and beating down the barbarous people, who had neither headpiece, nor armour to defend themselves, so that being hedged in between the legionary soldiers, and the Auxiliaries, the greatest part of them were slain in the place. At this assault Caractacus his wife, and daughter were taken prisoners, and his brethren yielded to the enemies; but himself driven to extremity, escaped by flight into the Country of the brigants, hoping to receive some aid of Cartismandua the sovereign Lady there. But, as it falleth out commonly with men in adversity, to be forsaken and left succourless: so instead of finding the relief which he expected, he fell into the danger which he little doubted. For Cartismandua, either fearing her own estate, or thinking to win favour of the Conqueror (as Princes oft times make use of one another's misfortunes to serve their own turns) detained him in prison a while, and afterward delivered him to Ostorius, who was exceeding glad that he had gotten him, and forthwith sent him to Rome, as a prize of great worth, and the happy fruits of nine years service in the wars. CHAP. XV. Caractacus the British Prince is sent to Rome, and presented there before Claudius the Emperor. His habit, speech, and behaviour. He is pardoned, and dismissed. THe report of Caractacus misfortune was soon spread throughout the Isles and Provinces adjoining, for his name was renowned in most parts of Italy, and each man desired to see him, who had so long time withstood, and contemned that power, which held all the world in awe, and obedience. The City of Rome for many days together was filled only with talk of him, and expectation of his coming; and the Emperor himself as a Conqueror, by extolling his own worthiness, covertly added more glory to the conquered. The people assembled together, as it were to see some notable and rare spectacle. The Emperor's guard in arms were orderly placed in the field before the camp. After this preparation made, the prisoners, and Trophies were presented in this manner; First the vassals of Caractacus going foremost, bowed their bodies to the people, as they passed, and seemed by their rueful countenances to discover their fear. The comparisons, chains, and other spoils taken in the war, were carried after them. Then Caractacus his Brethren, his Wife, and Daughters followed; and last of all came Caractacus himself. His body was naked, for the most part, and painted with the figures of divers beasts. He ware a chain of iron about his neck, and another about his middle. The hair of his head hanging down in long locks (curled by nature) covered his back and shoulders, and the hair of his upper lip being parted on both sides, lay upon his breast. The rest of his body was shaved all over. Neither was his behaviour less noted, than the strangeness of his habit: For he neither hung down his head, nor craved mercy (as the rest did) but went on boldly with a settled and stern countenance, till he came before the Emperor's Tribunal seat, and there standing still a while, he after spoke these, or the like words. If either my virtues in prosperity, had been answerable to the greatness of my estate, or the success of my late attempts to the resolution of my mind, I might have come to this City, to have been entertained, rather as a Friend, than as a captive to be gazed upon; For it should have been no disgrace for the Romans, to have admitted into society with them, a man royally descended, and a commander of many warlike Nations. But what cloud soever Fortune hath cast over my estate, she is not able to take from me those things, which the heavens and Nature have given me: (that is,) the dignity of my Birth, and the courage of my Mind, which never failed me: I know it is a custom among you, to make your Triumphs, the spectacles of other men's miseries, and in this my Calamity, as in a Mirror, you do now behold your own glory. Yet know, that I was sometimes a Prince, furnished with strength of men, and habiliments of war; and what marvel is it, that I have now lost them, since your own experience hath taught you, that the events of war are variable, and uncertain? I thought that the deep Waters, which like a Wall enclose us, (whom the heavens seem to have placed far off, in another world by itself,) might have been a sufficient defence for us against foreign invasion: But I see now, that your Desire of sovereignty admits no limitation, since neither the danger of an unknown Sea, nor the distance of place, can any longer warrant our safety and liberty. If you will needs command the whole world, then must all men become your vassals, and live under a forced obedience. For mine own part, so long as I was able, I made resistance, being unwilling to submit my neck to a foreign Yoke. The law of natural reason alloweth every man to defend himself, being assailed, and to withstand force, by force. Had I yielded at the first, thy glory, and my mishap had not been so renowned, but both of them would soon have been forgotten. Fortune hath done her worst, and we have now nothing left us, but our lives, which if thou spare (having power to spill) thou shalt do that which best beseemeth a great Mind, and a noble Nature. The Emperor hearing this speech, and wondering to see such boldness and constancy of mind in a dejected estate, pardoned both him, and the rest of his company, commanding them to be unbound, and so dismissed them. CHAP. XVI. What opinion the Romans held of Caractacus. Triumphal honours assigned to Ostorius for taking him. The Britan's assail the Roman camp in the Country of the Silureses. The principality of South-wales. The death of Ostorius the General. FOr many days together, Caractacus his Fortune ministered matter of discourse to the Lords of the Senate, who affirmed the spectacle of his captivity to be no less honourable, then that of Syphax the Numidian King, over whom P. Scipio triumphed, or that of Perses, whom Paulus Aemilius vanquished, or of any other Kings, that had in former times been taken in war, and showed to the people. Then public honours of triumph were decreed for Ostorius, whose fortunes being now at the highest, began afterwards to decline, by reason, that either Caractacus (the object of his valour) being removed, he supposed he had made a full conquest, and therefore followed the service more carelessly: or else, for that the residue of the Britan's, having compassion of the misfortune of so mighty a Prince, and being eager of revenge, renewed the war; for they assailed the Legionary Cohorts which were left behind to build fortresses in the Silureses Country, killed the camp-Maister, and eight Centurions, besides some of the forwardest soldiers, and they had put all the rest to the sword, if speedy rescue had not come from the villages and Forts adjoining. diverse other sallies they made, as time and place gave them advantage, prevailing sometimes by strength, sometimes by policy, and sometimes by chance. The Principal motive, that induced the rest to take arms, was the example of the Silureses, who were most resolutely bend, as being exasperated, by reason of a speech that the Roman Emperor had used, which was: That he would root out the name of the Silureses, as the Sicambrians had been in former time. This made them bold and desperate to adventure, as men knowing their destiny before hand. Many skirmishes they had, in surprising the scattered troops of the Roman soldiers, and often times with good success, in taking rich booties, and prisoners, and distributing the spoils among their neighbours, by which means they drew them also to revolt. In the mean time, Ostorius wearied with care and travail, ended his life. CHAP. XVII. Aulus Didius is sent by Claudius the Emperor to take charge of the army in Britanny. Venutius the husband of Cartismandua Princess of the brigants, upon private discontentment taketh arms against the Romans. The death of Claudius the Emperor. Claudius' the Emperor being advertised of the death of Ostorius, sent Aulus Didius to take charge of the army in Britanny, where notwithstanding all the haste he made, he found all out of frame: Manlius Valens with his Legion having encountered the Britan's with ill success, which by report of the Islanders, was made greater than indeed it was, to terrify the new Governor, who also made use of the same policy to serve his own turn; for, by increasing the fame of that which he heard reported, he supposed, either to win greater praise, if he prevailed, or to purchase a more favourable censure of his actions, if he miscarried. The Silureses had made many roads into the subdued Country, wasting, and spoiling round about, when Didius the Lieutenant, upon his first arrival, entering into the field, restrained their outrage, and for a while kept them in some awe. After Caractacus was taken, Venutius, a Prince faithful to the Romans, and protected by them (so long as Cartismandua his wife and he agreed together) upon private discontentment began a new rebellion. For Cartismandua (whom the Romans specially favoured for the delivery of Caractacus) abounding now in peace, wealth, and plenty (which are commonly the nurses of licentious living) fell in love with Velocatus one of her husband's servants, and forgetting in the end her own honour, preferred him before Venutius, who being deeply touched with such an open injury, and disgrace, raised a power, to expel her and her Paramour out of the Kingdom. The war seemed at the first, to have been maintained between themselves, and their private followers only, till Cartismandua, by policy, had taken Venutius his brother, and certain of his kinsmen: and then the Inhabitants round about, fearing the event, and disdaining to be brought under the servile yoke of a woman, declared themselves for Venutius, and with a choice number of youthful and well experienced Soldiers, invaded the Country: whereof Didius having timely intelligence, sent certain Cohorts to encounter them. Hereupon ensued a sharp Conflict, the success whereof was much doubted in the beginning, but in the end the Romans prevailed. The like fortune also had Caesius Nasica with his Legion; For Didius himself, as a man stricken in years, and fitter to direct, then execute, used (for the most part) the ministery of other men, keeping that which his Predecessors had gotten, and building only some few Castles, and places of Defence within the land, to win thereby, a fame of augmenting the office. The year following, Claudius the Emperor, (by the treachery of Agrippina his wife, who practised to prevent Britannicus, and to prefer her own son Nero to the Empire) died of poison: leaving to posterity no greater fame of any thing by him attempted during his government, then of his fortunate Expedition into Britanny. The end of the first Book, of the first part of the History of Great Britan. The succession of the Roman Emperors from Nero, unto Domitian. 6 Nero Emperor 14. years. 7 Galba Emperor 7. months 8 Otho Emperor 4. months 9 Vitellius Emperor 8. months. 10 Vespasian. Emperor 9 years and 11. men. 11 Titus Emperor 2. years. 12 Domitian Emperor 15. years. Lieutenants in Britanny from the beginning of Nero's reign, until the end of Domitian's. ¶ lieutenants under Nero. Veranius. Suetonius Paulinus. Petronins Turpilianus. Trebellius Maximus. ¶ Lievt. under Galba. Trebellius Maximus. ¶ Lievt. under Otho. Trebellius Maximus. ¶ Lievt. under Vitellius. Vectius Bolanus. ¶ Lievt. under Vespasian. Petilius Cerealis. julius Frontinus. julius Agricola. ¶ Lievt. under Titus. julius Agricola. ¶ Lievt. under Domitian. julius Agricola. Salustius Lucullus. The Princes, and men of special note among the Britan's. In the time of Suetonius Paulinus government under Nero the Emperor. Prasutagus, Prince of the Icenians. Voadica (the warlike) his wife. In the time of julius Agricolaes' government, under Domitian the Emperor. Galgacus, Prince of the Caledonians. In the time of Salustius Lucullus government, under Domitian the Emperor. Arviragus. THE FIRST PART: The second Book. NERO CL: CAES: AVG: GER: P. M. TR. P. XI. P. P. portrait of Nero The first CHAPTER. Nero succeed Claudius in the Empire. The Province in Britanny is governed by Veranius, after whose death the charge is committea to Suetonius Paulinus. The I'll of Anglesey is subdued. The doctrine and manners of the religious druids. THis was the state of the affairs in Britanny, when Claudius the Emperor died, leaving the Roman Monarchy to Nero his adopted son, who (after his first five years spent) being given over to all kinds of vice, neglected the government both at home and abroad, not daring to enter into any militare action; and it was thought that he would have revoked the army out of Britanny, if very shame in detracting from his father's glory, and losing that which he had won, had not withheld him. About that time Veranius was Governor in Britanny, where the shortness of his continuance suffered him not to effect any great matter; for he died in the first year of his government, and then was the Province assigned to Suetonius Paulinus, one of the most famous men of that age for militare affairs. His good success at his first entrance, in subduing nations, and establishing Garrisons (where need required) made him bold to assail the I'll of a Anglesey. Mona, (lying in the West part of Britanny) as having been a common receptacle of Fugitives during the war. In his passage thither, he left the Country behind him (as he marched) unfurnished in divers places, laying it thereby open to all opportunities of annoyance. At his arrival, the barbarous people rudely armed, standing upon the shore, made show of their purpose to resist: The women in mourning attire (their hair about their ears) shaking burning firebrands like Furies of hell, ran up and down, and the druids lifting up their hands toward heaven, filled the air with cries and curses. These druids were certain Priests, had in great reverence among the Britan's. They kept their residence, for the most part, in shady and dark groves (as fittest places for devotion.) Among all trees, they most esteemed the Oak, as hallowed, and without the which, they could not perform their superstitious rites. Their sacrifices were both private & public. They instructed the youth of Britanny, and decided controversies, civil, and criminal. If any man refused to stand to their award, he was forbidden to be present at their sacrifices, which was accounted the greatest punishment that might be; for thereby he was reputed a notorious offender, exempt from the ordinary protection of the laws, uncapable of any preferment, and all men would fly his company. Amongst these Priests, there was always one that had the chief authority; and he being dead, the worthiest of them that survived, succeeded in his place. If there seemed to be an equality of worthiness among more than one, than the choice was made by plurality of voices. At one certain time in the year, they used to hold a Sessions in Gallia, in some consecrated place, where they heard and determined causes; For the superstition was first carried thither out of Britanny. They had immunity from all manner of Tributes, and from service in the wars; by reason of which privileges, they drew to them many followers, whom they taught a great number of verses by heart, supposing it unlawful to commit those sacred things to writing; whereas in other matters, as well public, as private, they used the Greek letters. And this it is likely they did, either for that they would not have the knowledge of their superstitious rites laid open to the common people, (in whom ignorance seemeth to engender a kind of devotion) or else, for that they would have their scholars to trust the more to their memory, while they wanted the help of writing. They preached that the soul was immortal, and that after the death of one man, it went into another. By this persuasion, they stirred up men to virtue, and took away the fear of death (the main obstacle of glorious adventures.) Other things they taught also concerning the motion of the Stars, the situation of the earth, and the power of their profane gods. The strange behaviour of these religious Priests, and the outcries of the people of Mona, so amazed the Roman soldiers, that like men enchanted, they stood still without motion, till the Captain spoke unto them, and encouraged them to adventure, not fearing a flock of feelie women, or frantic people; and then boldly giving the charge, he soon disordered & dispersed them, making himself master of the field: which done, the Roman soldiers entered the Towns, and placed garrisons there, felling the woods, which the Inhabitants superstitiously reputed holy, by reason of the Altars, whereupon they sacrificed the blood of captives, and prophesied of the success of their own affairs, by viewing the entrails of men, whom they had killed. CHAP. II. The Britan's oppressed by the cruelty and covetousness of the Roman officers, discover their grievances one to another. Prodigious signs foregoing the subversion of the Roman Colony. The Britan's take arms under the conduct of Voadica. IN the mean time Prasutagus Prince of the Icenians, a man renowned for his riches, did by his last will, make the Roman Emperor his heir, (jointly with two of his daughters,) supposing, that thereby his principality, and family should have been maintained in good estate, and protected from violence after his death: all which fell out contrary to his hopes; for his kingdom was made a prey to the Soldiers, Voadica his wife whipped, his daughters deflowered, such as were of his family made slaves, and the wealthiest men of his Country, either by open force, or surmised pretences, deprived of their goods, and dispossessed of their inheritance. Besides that, Seneca one of Nero's counsellors, having forced divers of the better sort of the Britan's, to take great sums of money of him upon usury, did then, for his private gain, exact the payment of the principal upon a sudden; to the utter undoing of his debtors: and Decianus Catus the a Receiver of the revenues of the province. Procurator in Britanny, renewed the Confiscation of their goods, which Claudius the Emperor had pardoned. The soldiers placed in the Colony at Camalodunum, had thrust the owners and ancient Inhabitants out of their houses, terming them slaves, and drudges, and abusing them in all reproachful manner. The Temple erected in the honour of Claudius, was an eyesore, and continual burden unto them, while the Priests Augustales that attended there, wasted the wealth of the inhabitants, under the pretext of religion. To these common grievances of the afflicted people, the present occasion seemed to offer means of redress, while the Roman General was making war in Mona. Whereupon they resolved to take arms, inciting the Trinobantes and other Nations (that were not wholly brought under subjection) to do the like. Then they began to discourse of the miseries of bondage, to lay their injuries together, aggravating them by their own Constructions, and complaining, that their patience had profited them nothing, but to draw heavier burdens upon them, as men that would gently bear: That whereas in former times they had only one Commander, now there was two thrust upon them, the Lieutenant to suck their blood, and the Procurator their substance, whose disagreement was the vexation of the subject, and agreement, their utter undoing, while the one burdened them with Soldiers and Captains, the other with wrongs, and indignities: that the lust and covetousness of these their enemies, laid hold upon all persons, without exception: that though in the field, he that spoileth, be commonly the stronger, yet themselves were, by Cowards and weaklings (for the most part) dispossessed of their houses▪ bereft of their Children, enjoined to yield Soldiers for other men's behoof, as though they were such a kind of people, as knew how to do any thing else, save only to die for their own Country; For otherwise there was but a handful of Soldiers come over, if they did but reckon their own number, considering withal, that Germany had already shaken off the yoke, having no Ocean Sea, but a river to defend it: that the causes then moving them to take arms, were just, and honourable; namely to recover their liberty, and to defend their Parents, Wives, Children, and Country; whereas the Romans had nothing to provoke them to war, but their own covetousness, and wanton lust, and were likely enough to depart (as julius Caesar had done) if themselves would imitate the virtues of their progenitors; and not be dismayed with the doubtful event of one skirmish, or two, seeing that men in misery have commonly more courage (than at other times) and more constancy to continue: and now the heavens themselves seemed to pity their poor estate, by sending the Roman Governor out of the way, and confining the army (as it were) into another Island; by which means, opportunity of revenge, and hope of liberty was offered: and finally, that being assembled, to devise, and deliberate together, they had obtained the hardest point in an action of that nature, wherein it were more danger to be taken consulting, then doing. With these and the like speeches they stirred up one another, each man laying open his own particular grievances, and adding them to the common cause. About this time, divers prodigious signs were noted to portend the subversion of the Roman Colony, as namely, an Image of Victory falling down reversed at Camalodunum; Strange noises sounding in the air: Strange apparitions seen in the sea: The Ocean bloody in show: and the print of men's bodies upon the sands. Divers constructions were made of these things as ominous, whether that they proceed of some natural causes (though not always observed,) or else, that they do necessarily forego the ruin and change of great States. Howbeit commonly in such cases, men's minds do mis-give them, while they frame the future event of things answerable to their own fearful imaginations; and great alterations falling out sometimes after like accidents, they superstitiously suppose them, to be always the certain forerunners of destruction. The apprehension of these things, at the first, struck the Romans with greater fear, by reason of the absence of their General, and thereupon they required the aid of Catus Decianus the Procurator, who sent a small company badly armed, to renforce the garrison. The old soldiers that had been left within the Town, (although few in number) yet trusting to the franchize of the Temple, and not doubting the secret conspiracy of their confederates, were in a manner careless, as in times of peace, following their pleasures, and making no provision for defence. The Britan's, having in the mean time, taken arms under the conduct of Voadica, a Lady of the blood of their kings (for in matter of government they made no difference of sex) and being informed of the state of the Colony, determined first to assail the towns and forts in their passage thither, which they attempted accordingly, & with no great difficulty surprised the greatest number of them. CHAP. III. The Britan's take arms under the conduct of Voadica. Her Oration to her Soldiers. The Roman Colony is surprised. Cerealis coming to succour it, hardly escapeth with life. Catus the Procurator flieth into France. THe good success the Britan's had in taking in some places of defence, as they marched forward, made them desirous and adventurous to invade the Colony itself: and Voadica as their leader, being a woman of a great spirit, and comely parsonage, (appareled in a loose gown of divers colours, with a golden chain about her neck, and a light spear in her hand) standing upon a heap of Turfs, the better to be seen (her daughters on each side of her) with a shrill voice uttered these, or the like words: It is no new custom for the Britan's to make war under the leading of women, ennobled by their birth and descent; the examples of former times can well witness the experience thereof. Howbeit at this present, I will disclaim all titles of dignity, and prerogatives of blood: and what difference soever there is in our estates, yet shall our fortune, in this action, be indifferent and common to us both. I shall not need to repeat that, which you all know but too well; namely, what miseries we have endured under the tyranny of this proud Nation. You have had the trial both of liberty and bondage, and I doubt not, but you find now, how much the one is to be preferred before the other; and howsoever some of you heretofore, for private respects, have inclined to the Roman governors, as favourers of their usurped sovereignty: yet I suppose you will now confess with me, that freedom in a poor estate, is better than golden fetters. For what abuse can there be named so vile, or indignity so disgraceful, that hath not been offered us, without respect of degree, age, or sex? we till our grounds, & sweat for other men, that reap the sweat of our travels; the wealth that we gather to maintain ourselves, and our families, is by other men wastefully and riotously misspent; we have nothing our own, but what they leave us, and nothing left us, but labour and vexation; our bodies and estates being consumed, to satisfy their ambition & covetousness; We have not so much as our heads toll-free: so narrowly are we sifted, from the highest to the lowest. Other subdued Nations are yet by death freed from bondage; but we, even after death seem to live still in thraldom, while we are enforced to pay tribute, as well for the dead, as the living. What! are we a nation so contemptible, that we can serve to no other use, then to be slaves? or so unhappy, that death itself can not acquit us from being miserable? How long shall we give way to our own wrongs? Shall we hope for reformation of these abuses? Nay, we have hoped too long, and by patient bearing of one injury, we have drawn on another. Why should we not rather seek to redress them? for if we enter into due consideration of ourselves, what are the Romen more than we? our bodies are as strong as theirs: our numbers greater. We have agility of body, (our women no less than our men) to run, to leap, to swim, and to perform all warlike exercises; for which (indeed) we are naturally more fit, then for the spade, plough, or handicrafts. And how soever the Romans may seem fortunate by the folly, or weakness of other Nations: yet are they not comparable unto us, whom Nature hath framed to endure hunger, cold, and labour, and to be content with things necessary only. For to us every herb and root is meat, each river, and spring yieldeth us drink, while we seek no further, then to appease hunger, and quench thirst; each tree serves for shelter against storms in winter, & for shadow against the parching heat of summer, we need no other beds then the earth, nor covering then the heavens; whereas they must have their joints suppled with hot baths, sweet ointments, and soft couches, and their bodies pampered with wine, dainty fare, and all kind of effeminate niceness and delicacy. These be the properties, wherein they imitate their master Nero, who hath only the shape of a man, being indeed a woman, or rather, neither man nor woman, but a monster of nature, a singer, a fiddler, a stage-player, a murderer, and one that excelleth other men as far in vice, as he doth in pre-eminence of degree. Besides all this, the cause of our war is just, and the Divine powers (that favour justice,) have made our first attempts prosperous: and me thinketh, that the necessity of our case, were able to make, even Cowards, valiant. Your ancestors could make head against julius Caesar, and the emperors Caligula, and Claudius. The Germans have lately freed themselves by that memorable overthrow of the Roman Legions, under the conduct of Quintilius Varus; and shall not we, (who scorn to be reputed inferior to the Germans in valour) be confident in our own strength, and boldly adventure? considering that if we prevail, we recover our lost liberty, if we be forced to retire, we have woods, hills, and marshes for our refuge, and if we die, we do but sell those lives with honour, which we cannot possess with safety. For mine own part, you shall find me no less ready to execute, (when time serves,) than I am now to advise and exhort you: myself having determined, either to vanquish, or die; If any of you be otherwise minded, then live, and be slaves still. With these and the like speeches, she inflamed the hearts that were already kindled, and persuading the Britan's to pursue their enemies, as Dogs and wolves do fearful Hares and Foxes, she let slip out of her lap a quick Hare, at whose running through the camp, the Britan's shouted, apprehending it as a matter ominous, and fore-signifying the Romans flight. And thereupon they cried, that they might be speedily led to the Colony itself, (as the seat of their slavery) which at their first coming they surprised, killing, spoiling, & consuming all with sword and fire, except the Temple only, into which the Soldiers fled as a Sanctuary, though it could not long protect them from the violence of the furious multitude. Petilius Cerealis the Lieutenant of the Ninth Legion, coming to succour the Garrison, had all his footmen slain, and himself with a few horse hardly escaped. Catus the Procurator, knowing himself to be odious to the Britan's, (by reason of the extortions he had committed in his office,) fled secretly into Gallia. CHAP. FOUR Suetonius returneth with his army out of Anglesey. The Cities of London, and Verlam, are taken, and spoiled by the Britan's. The Romans and Britan's make preparation for a set battle. SVetonius, upon intelligence of the revolt, returned out of Mona, and led his army with some difficulty towards London, (a place not known at that time by the name of a Colony,) but famous only for concourse of Merchants and traffic. There he stayed a while, as doubting what course to take: the small number of his forces, and the ill success of Cerealis making him more wary; and he supposed it would be a work well worth his labour, if with the loss of one Town, he could preserve the rest, that were likely to revolt. Whereupon, furnishing his defective Companies with such able men as were then in the Town, although the Londoners with tears implored his aid, and desired his abode there for their defence: yet he marched forward, leaving behind him all such, as either by reason of their age, sex, or other infirmities could not follow, or else, for love of the place, (as being bred and born there) would not abandon it. The town being thus weakly guarded, was taken by the Britan's, and the people therein put all to the sword. The like calamity befell the free-towne of a An ancient City, with whose ruins saint Alban was built. Verulamium, by reason that divers of the Britan's finding their own strength, forsook their forts, and assailed the most notable and wealthy places, enriching themselves with the spoil of their enemies, whom they hanged, burned, and crucified, exercising all kinds of cruelty that a mind enraged with desire of revenge, could devise. They took no prisoners, either to preserve for ransom, or to exchange, according to the laws of war, but slew both Citizens and Confederates to the number of about seventy thousand. Suetonius with the Fourteenth Legion, seconded by the Standard-bearers of the Twentieth, and some Auxiliaries, made haste to encounter the Britan's, and resolved without further delay, to try the chance of a set battle. Then he pitched in a place that had a narrow entrance, with a thick wood for a defence behind him, and a fair wide plain before his Campe. The legionary Soldiers were marshaled together in thick ranks, the light harnessed enclosing them about, and the horsemen making wings on each side. Poenius Posthumus the camp-master of the Second Legion, was appointed to lead the forward, but he contemptuously refused the charge. In the mean time the Britan's ranged abroad in great troops, triumphing for their late good success, and being encouraged by the example of Voadica their General, were fiercely bend to assail the Roman camp, supposing now, that no force was able to resist them. And they had brought their wives with them, and placed them in Wagons about the utmost parts of the Plain, to be the beholders of their valiant acts, and witnesses of their expected victory. CHAP. V. The Oration of Suetonius the Roman General unto his Soldiers. The fight between the Romans and Britan's. The Britan's are overthrown. Voadica poisoneth herself. The death of Poenius Posthumus. SVetonius being now ready to join battle, though he perceived that his Soldiers, were not much dismayed with the sight of so great numbers scattered upon the Plain; yet he supposed it not unnecessary to use some speech to them, by way of exhortation, and therefore began in this manner: I can not now use many words to exhort you; the time permits it not, and the present occasion requireth rather deeds than words. Yet let not our small number discourage you, considering that your ancestors, with a smaller number have undertaken greater matters; and that, where many Legions have been in the field, a few Soldiers have carried away the victory; What a glory shall it be for you then, if with so small a power, you can purchase the praise of a whole army? There is no fear of Ambush; the Woods guard you behind, and on the Plain before you lieth your enemy's Camp, wherein you may behold more women than men, and the men themselves for the most part, unarmed, and not likely to endure the points and strokes of our weapons, which they have so often felt to their smart. It stands you now upon, to approve yourselves the same men you are reputed to be. This is the time, either to recover that you have lost, or, to lose that which you shall never recover. You fight now, not for honour only, but for Honour and Life. Remember that you are Romans, whose glory it is to do, and suffer great things. The fortune of this battle will either give us peaceable possession of that our forefathers have won, or for ever deprive us of it; What shall become of you, if you be taken, the woeful experience of your Countrymen, most miserably massacred before your eyes may sufficiently testify. Revenge therefore both their wrongs, and your own, and no doubt, but the gods themselves (who never leave cruelty unpunished) will assist you. It is better for us to die in this Action, then by yielding, or flying, to outlive the praise of our own worthiness. But whether we live or die, Britanny shall be ours; for if we live and recover it, our posterity ever after shall be able to defend it; and though they should not, yet shall our bones keep continual possession of it. Take courage therefore, and fear not the loud and vain shouts of a disordered multitude, but boldly give the assault, and keeping yourselves close together, pursue the fight, without thinking of the spoil, till you have made a full end. For the victory once gotten, all things else will of themselves fall to your share. With these, or the like words, the old Soldiers were pricked forward, and Suetonius perceiving it, gave the signal of battle. The Legions kept the strait, as a place of defence, till the Britan's had spent their Darts: and then they sallied out into the Plain, (the Auxiliaries, and the horsemen making way) and pressed into the thickest troops of the barbarous people, who being unable to endure the fierceness of the assault, turned their backs, thinking to save themselves by flight; But by reason their wagons, placed about the Plain, had hedged in the passages on all sides, few of them escaped. The residue, as well women as men, were put to the sword, and their dead bodies (mingled with the carcases of their Horses and Chariots) were heaped one upon another. The number of the Britan's slain in that battle, was reported to be about fourscore thousand, and of the Romans about four hundred only, and not many more wounded in the conflict. This days service was renowned among the Romans, as comparable to those of ancient times in the free Commonwealth. Voadica disdaining to fall into her enemy's hands, ended her life by poison: and Poenius Posthumus seeing the good success of the Fourteenth and Twentieth Legions, (for that by disobeying the General, contrary to the discipline of war, he had defrauded his own Legion of their part of the glory in the action) for very grief slew himself. CHAP. VI Suetonius renforceth the Roman Garrisons. Variance between him, and Classicianus the Procurator. Polycletus is sent by Nero the Emperor to examine their doings. Suetonius is discharged of the army, which he delivereth up to Turpilianus. THen Suetonius having gathered together his dispersed troops, certain legionary soldiers and Cohorts of Auxiliaries were sent him out of Germany, to renforce the Garrisons, and to make an end of the war. Some of the Britan's that either openly resisted, or elsstood doubtfully affected, were put to the sword, and some that escaped the sword, died of famine for lack of corn, (a calamity incident to them, as to a people given rather to war then husbandry:) The rest found means to relieve themselves by the Romans provision; And though some overtures were now and then made for a treaty of peace, yet the Britan's would not very readily hearken thereto, by reason they much doubted their safety, as imagining that their guiltiness of the rebellion, had excluded them from all hope of pardon; and they feared also the private displeasure of the Lieutenant, who (though otherwise a singular man) yet seemed to show too much haughty and hard dealing towards them that yielded themselves, and in some sort, under pretext of the public service, to revenge his own injuries. Besides julius Classicianus (who was sent to succeed Catus) being at variance with Suetonius, had given out, that a new Lieutenant was coming, and that he was such a one, as being void of malice, or the pride of a Conqueror, would be ready to receive into favour all such as would yield themselves. He wrote Letters also to Rome, signifying to the Senate, that they should look for no end of the war in Britanny, so long as Suetonius continued the government there; and that the ill success which he had in the service, was to be attributed to his own ill carriage of himself; and the good, to the fortune of the Common weal. Hereupon Nero sent Polycletus a Libertine into Britanny, to examine, and report the state of the affairs there, and to interpose his authority, as a mean to reconcile the Lieutenant, & the procurator, & to win the Britan's to embrace peace. At his landing in the I'll, the Roman soldiers there seemed to fear & reverence him; & the causes of his coming were diversely reported at the first. But the Britan's derided him; for (as men being borne free) they knew not till that time, the power of Libertines (men made free) but rather marveled, that a Captain, and an army which had achieved so great an enterprise, could be brought to obey, and yield an account of their actions to a base bondslave, (as they termed him.) These things, howsoever they were censured by others: yet they were reported to Nero in such manner, as the reporters thought might best content him: and Suetonius, after the loss of some of his shipping, was commanded (the war being not yet finished) to deliver up the army to Petronius Turpilianus, who had (but even a little before) given over his Consulship. CHAP. VII. Trebellius Maximus succeed Turpilianus in the government of the Province. Discord in the army between Trebellius and Celius. The death of Nero the Emperor, and succession of Galba, Otho, and Vitellius. The valour and fortune of the Fourteenth Legion. TVrpilianus was a man of a soft spirit, and being a stranger to the Britan's faults, was the more tractable and ready to remit them; by which means, having composed the former troubles, he delivered up his charge to Trebellius Maximus, whose unfitness for action, and want of experience in militare matters, gave the more boldness to the Britan's, that began now to discover the defects of their Governors, having learned both to flatter & dissemble, in conforming themselves to the present times, and occasions for their advantage, and for the most part, yielding themselves to those pleasures, which Security useth to engender, even in minds well disposed by Nature. For Trebellius, besides his insufficiency, abused the authority of his place, to enrich himself by polling the Common soldiers, and Roscius Coelius Lieutenant of the Twentieth Legion whetted them on against him, as against his ancient enemy; so that in the end they broke out into heinous terms, the one objecting matter of crime against the other: Trebellius charged Coelius with factious behaviour. Coelius again Trebellius with beggaring the Legions; and the discord betwixt them grew so far, that Trebellius being despised, as well by the Aids, as the Legions (both of them sorting themselves to Coelius his side) was in great fear of his life: the danger whereof he sought to prevent, rather by flying away, then by executing any exemplary justice upon offenders. In the mean time, the Soldiers neglecting the ancient discipline of war, fell to mutiny, and all kind of riot, as men that had rather be doing ill, then doing nothing. And afterwards, Trebellius taking again his former place, as it were by capitulation, seemed to govern only at the discretion of his Soldiers, who finding his weakness, and want of judgement to use his authority, took upon them to do what they listed: and herewith also the Lieutenant himself seemed contented, as being now given over altogether to a slothful kind of life (terming it peace and quietnesse●) for which the death of Nero the Emperor, and the civil discord at that time between Galba, Otho, and Vitellius, contending for the sovereignty ministered some colour of excuse. Not long before this time, the Fourteenth Legion (famous for many great attempts, and growing now more insolent than the rest,) was revoked out of the I'll, to have been sent to the straits about the Caspian Sea, though afterwards upon intelligence of the revolt in Gallia, and Spain, (when julius Vindex took arms against Nero) it was retained about the City of Rome for a safeguard to those parts. In the turbulent times that ensued Nero's death, it took part with Otho against Vitellius, at the battle near Bebriacum, where Otho was overthrown; and Vitellius after the victory, suspecting the Soldiers of that Legion, (as knowing their great stomachs, and ill affection towards him) thought it expedient to join to them the a Bands of Hollanders. Batavian Cohorts, that by reason of the inveterate hatred between them, they might one oppose the other, and himself in the mean time remain more secure. CHAP. VIII. Vectius Bolanus is sent by Vitellius the Emperor, to take charge of the Army in Britanny. Vespasian succeed Vitellius in the Empire. The government of the Province assigned to Petilius Cerealis, who soon after leaveth the same to julius Frontinus. VEctius Bolanus, a man not much unlike Trebellius in some respects, was sent over by Vitellius; during the time of whose Government, the like disorders continued still in the Camp, saving that Bolanus, by the mildness of his nature (being not touched otherwise in his reputation) had purchased love, and good will, in stead of fear and obedience. In his time divers choice men of war taken out of the Legions in Britanny, were conducted to Rome by Hordeonius Fla●cus in aid of Vitellius. But when Vespasian made war for the Empire, Bolanus refused to send Vitellius any succour, by reason that the Britan's finding the Romans state encumbered with civil dissension, began to revolt in divers places of the I'll, and some of them also showed themselves openly in favour of Vespasian, who had carried himself honourably in Britanny, when Claudius was there, and seemed now by many ominous predictions, to be a man specially marked for the Empire. The death of Vitellius quenching the flame of civil broils among the Romans, confirmed the possession of the Empire to Vespasian, who showed the care and respect he had of the I'll of Britanny, by employing great Captains, and good soldiers there. The Lieutenantship was then assigned to Petilius Cerealis, a man that had given good proof of his sufficiency in former services. Upon his first entrance into office, he invaded the Country of the brigants (the most populous state of the whole Province) the greatest part whereof, (after many bloody battles) was either conquered, or wasted, and the hope of the Britan's greatly abated, whenas julius Frontinus (whose reputation was nothing impaired by the fame of his predecessor) took upon him the charge, which he afterwards executed with great commendation, in subduing the strong and warlike Nation of the Silureses, among whom he seemed to fight, not only with men (whose strength and valour was able to make opposition against his attempts) but also with Mountains, straits, and places of very difficult access. CHAP. IX. julius Agricola assigned by Vespasian the Emperor to be Lieutenant of the Army in Britanny, subdueth the Ordovices [the ancient Inhabitants of North-wales,] and maketh a full conquest of the I'll of Anglesey. The carriage of himself at his first entrance into government. IN this estate julius Agricola (having been trained up for the most part in the British war) did find the Province at his first coming thither. He crossed the narrow Seas about the midst of Summer; at which time, as though the season of the year had been past to begin a new war, the Roman soldiers attended an end of their travel, & the Britan's a beginning of annoyance to their enemies. The Ordovices a little before he landed, had almost cut in pieces a troup of horsemen that lay upon their borders. Upon which attempt, the country being awaked, as desirous of war, allowed the example, and some stayed to see how the new Lieutenant would take it. Agricola in the mean time, although the summer was spent, and the Bands lay dispersed in the Province (his soldiers having fully presumed of rest for that year, & divers officers of the army being of opinion, that it were better to keep, and assure the places suspected, then to make any new attempt:) yet (all this notwithstanding) he resolved directly to encounter the danger; and gathering together the Ensigns of the Legions, & some few Auxiliaries (because the Ordovices, durst not descend into indifferent ground) himself first of all, (to give others like courage) marched up to begin the assault. And having in that conflict destroyed almost the whole Nation of the Ordovices, & knowing right well, that Fame must with Instance be followed, (for as the first should fall out, so the rest would succeed:) he deliberated to conquer the Island of Mona; from the possession whereof, Paulinus had been formerly revoked by the general rebellion of Britanny: But ships being then wanting (as in an enterprise not intended before) the policy and resoluteness of the Captain, devised a speedy passage. For he commanded the most choice of the Aids (to whom all the shallows were known, and who (after the use of their Country) were able to swim in their armour if need were) to lay aside their carriage, and putting over at once, suddenly to invade it. Which thing so amazed the Inhabitants (who supposed that the Romans would have stayed a certain time for ships, and such like provision by Sea,) that now believing, nothing could be hard or invincible to men, which came so minded to make war, they humbly entreated for peace, and yielded the Island. Thus Agricola at his first entrance into office (which time others used to consume in vain ostentation, or ambitious seeking of Ceremonies) entering withal into labours and dangers, became famous indeed, and of great reputation. Howbeit he abused not the prosperous proceeding of his affairs, to vanity, or braving in speeches; for he esteemed it an Action not worthy the name of a Conquest, to keep in order, only persons subdued before: neither decked he with Laurel his letters of advertisement, but by stopping and suppressing the fame of his doings, he greatly augmented it, when men began to discourse upon what great presumptions offuture success, he should make so light an account of so great actions, already performed. CHAP. X. Agricola reformeth abuses in the Province. His courage, industry, and wisdom set forth as commendable qualities in a General. The death of Vespasian the Emperor, whom Titus his son succeed in the Empire. AS touching the civil government, Agricola knowing how the province stood affected, and being taught also by experience of others, that arms avail little to settle a new conquered state, (if violence and wrongs be permitted) determined at the first to cut off all causes of war and rebellion. And beginning at home, he first of all reformed his own house, (a point of more hardness to some men, then to govern a Province.) He committed no manner of public affairs to bondman or Libertine. He received no soldier near his person, upon private affection of partial suitors, nor upon commendation, or entreaty of Centurions, but elected the best, and most serviceable. He would look narrowly into all things, yet not exact all things to the utmost: light faults he would pardon, and the great severely correct, not always punishing offenders, but oft times satisfied with repentance, choosing rather, not to prefer to office, such as were likely to offend, then after the offence, to condemn them. The augmentation of Tribute and corn, he tempered, with equal dividing of burdens, cutting away those petty extortions, which grieved the Britan's more than the tribute itself. For the poor people, in former times were constrained, in a mockery, to wait at the Barn doors, which were locked against them, and first to buy corn, and after sell at a low price. Several ways also, and far distant places had been assigned them by the Purveyors appointments, for carrying provisions from the nearest standing camps, to those which were far off, and out of the way, (petty officers in the mean time, making a gain thereof, by sparing some, and charging others at their pleasure) so as that which lay open to all, and at hand, was turned only to the private profit of a few. By repressing these abuses in his first year, a good opinion was conceived of the peace, which either by the negligence, or partiality of former Lieutenants had been no less feared, than war. In times of service he was very painful, and oft times more adventurous in his own person, than was fit for a General; for himself would always appoint his ground for pitching the camp, and also be the first man in proving the Thickets, Bogs, or any other places of danger, not suffering any corners or secret harbours unsearched, but wasting and spoiling every where with sudden incursions and assaults. Howbeit, when by these means he had terrified the Britan's, than would he again spare and forbear, as hoping thereby to allure them to peace; whereupon many Cities (which before that time stood upon terms of equality) gave hostages, and meekly submitted themselves, receiving garrisons, and permitting the Romans to fortify a work performed, with such foresight and judgement, as nothing was ever attempted against them, while he continued in office, whereas before that time, no new fortified place in all Britanny escaped unassailed. Thus far had Agricola proceeded, when the news came that Vespasian was dead, and Titus his son invested in the Empire. CHAH. XI. Agricolaes' policy to plant civility among the Britan's. He leadeth his army without resistance unto Edenbourgh Frith in Scotland. THe Winter ensuing was spent in a most profitable and politic devise. For, whereas the Britan's were rude, and dispersed, and therefore prone upon every occasion to war, Agricola, that he might induce them by pleasures to quietness and rest, exhorted them in private, and commanded his Soldiers to help them to build Temples, Houses, and Places of public resort, commending such as were forward therein, and checking the slow and idle persons, seeming thereby, to impose a kind of necessity upon them, while every man contended to gain the Lieutenants good will. Moreover the noblemen's sons, he took and caused to be instructed in the Liberal Sciences, preferring the wits of the Britan's, before those of the students in Gallia; the Britan's also themselves being now curious to attain the eloquence of the Roman language, whereas they lately rejected the speech. After that, the Roman Attire grew to be in account, and the Gown much used among them: and so by little and little, they proceeded to those common provocations of vices, namely sumptuous Galleries, hot Baths, and exquisite banquet; which things the ignorant people termed civility, though it were in deed a badge of their bondage. In the third year of his Government, he discovered new Countries, wasting all before him, till he came to the firth of a The river T●eed. Taus. Which thing so terrified the Northern Britan's, that although the Roman Army had been toiled and wearied with many sharp conflicts, yet they durst not assail it; whereby the Romans had the more leisure to encamp themselves, and to fortify: wherein Agricola was either so skilful, or so fortunate, that no Castle planted by him, was either forced by strength, or upon Conditions surrendered, or (as not defensible) forsaken. In all these Actions Agricola never sought to draw to himself the glory of any exploit done by another, but were he Centurion, or of other degree that had achieved it, he would faithfully witness the fact, and yield him always his due commendation. The fourth year of his office was spent in viewing and ordering that, which he had overrun: and if the valiant minds of his Soldiers, and the glory of the Roman name could have so permitted it, there should have been no need to have sought other limits of Britanny, then were at that time discovered. For a The Firth of Dunbretton in Scotland. Glota, and b Edinburgh Firth. Bodotria, two arms of the two contrary Seas, shooting mightily into the land, are only divided asunder by a narrow partition of ground, which passage was guarded and fortified with Garrisons and Castles, so that the Romans were now absolute Lords of all on this side, having cast their enemies, as it were into an other Island. CHAP. XII. What opinion the Romans had of the conquest of Ireland. Agricola setteth out a Navy to discover by Sea the utmost limits of the Island, and marcheth himself by land into the Country of the Caledonians, [the ancient Inhabitants of the North part of Scotland.] The Roman Camp is assailed, and delivered from danger by the coming in of Agricola. THe fifth year of the war, Agricola subdued with many and prosperous conflicts, strange nations, before that time unknown, and furnished with forces that part of Britanny, which lieth against Ireland: And this he did, more for hope of advantage, then fear of danger. For if Ireland might have been won, (lying (as it doth) between Britanny and Spain, and commodious also for Gallia) it would aptly have united to the use and profit one of the other, those strongest members of the Empire. The Nature and fashions of the Irish, did not then much differ from the British, but the Ports and Haven Towns in Ireland were more known and frequented, by reason of greater resort thither of Merchants. Agricola having received a Prince of that Country, (driven thence by civil dissension) did under colour of courtesy and friendship retain him; till occasion should serve to make use of him. It was afterwards reported, that with one Legion, and some few Aids, Ireland might then have been won and possessed, and that it would have been also a mean to have kept Britanny in obedience, if the Roman forces had been planted each where, and liberty (as it were) clean banished out of sight. Now in the Summer following, because a General rising in arms of the further Nations beyond Bodotria, was feared, (the passages being all beset with the power of the barbarous people,) he manned a fleet to search the Creeks and harbours of the ample region beyond it, backing them first of all with a navy, & with a goodly show bringing war, both by land & sea. And ofttimes it chanced that the horsemen, and footmen, and the Sea-souldier met, & made merry in the same camp, each man extolling his own prowess and adventures, and making their vaunts and comparisons soldier-like, some of the woods and high mountains that they had passed: others of dangers of Rocks and Tempests that they had endured: the one, of the land and the enemy defeated: the other, of the Ocean assayed, and subdued. The Britan's, (as by the Prisoners it was understood) were much amazed at the sight of the Navy, supposing that (the secrets of their Sea, being now disclosed) there remained no refuge for them, if they were overcome. Whereupon the Caledonians, arming with great preparation, and greater Fame, (as the manner is of matters unknown) began to assail their enemy's Castles; and some of the Roman Captains (which would seem to be wise, being (indeed) but Cowards) counseled the General to retire on this side Bodotria, and rather to depart of his own accord, then to be driven back with shame. In the mean season Agricola had knowledge, that the Britan's meant to divide themselves, and to give the onset in several companies: Whereupon lest he should be enclosed about, and entrapped, either by their multitude, or by their skill in the Passages, he marched also with his army divided in three parts: which when it was known to the Caledonians, they changed advise on the sudden, and uniting their forces together, jointly assaulted, by night, the Ninth Legion, as being of weakest resistance: & having slain the watch, (partly asleep, & partly amazed with fear) they broke into the camp, & were fight within the trenches, when Agricola having understood by spies, what way the Britan's had taken, and following their footsteps, commanded the lightest horsemen, and footmen to play upon their backs, and to maintain the skirmish. When the day drew near, the glittering of the Ensigns dazzled the eyes of the Britan's, who being daunted with fear of danger on each side, began to draw back: and the Romans, like men that were now out of peril of their lives, did fight more cheerfully for their honour, freshly assailing the Britan's, and driving them to their own gates, where in the very straits the Conflict was sharp and cruel, till in the end the Britan's were forced to fly, whilst the Roman forces severally pursued them, contending with a kind of emulation, the one to have helped the other, and the other to seem to have needed no help. Upon the success of this battle, the Roman Soldiers presuming, that to their power all things were easy, and open, cried to the General to lead them into Caledonia, that with a course of continual Conquests, they might find out the utmost limits of Britanny. Now such as before the battle were so wa●ie and wise in adventuring, waxed forward enough after the event, and grew to speak gloriously of themselves, [such is the hard condition of war; if aught fall out well, all challenge a part: misfortunes commonly are imputed to one:] chose the Britan's (presupposing, that not true Valour, but the cunning of the General, by using the occasion, had carried away the victory,) abated not much their wont courage, but armed their youth, transported their children and wives into places of safety, and sought by assemblies, and religious rites, to establish an association of the Cities together. And so for that year, both parties as 〈◊〉 departed incensed away. CHAP. XIII. The Northern Britan's with common consent arm themselves to repulse the Romans. The Oration of Galgacus the chief of their Leaders. IN the beginning of the next summer, Agricola sending his Navy before, (which by spoiling in sundry places, should induce a greater, and more uncertain terror,) followed himself with his army by land, having drawn to his party some of the valiantest Britan's (whom by long experience in peace, he had found most faithful) and so armed at the Mount a Grantz-ba●e in Scotland. Grampius, where the Britan's had lodged themselves before. For they were not altogether dejected with the unfortunate event of former battle, but now, as men prepared for all chances, they attended nothing else but revenge, death, or servitude; & being taught at the length, that common danger must be repelled with mutual concord) by leagues and ambassages they had assembled the power of all the Cities together, in number above thirty thousand armed men (the view being taken) besides a great company of youth (which daily flocked to them) and lusty old men renowned in war, and bearing the badges due to their honour; at what time Galgacus, for Virtue and Birth, the principal man of all the Leaders, seeing the multitude hotly demand the battle, is said to have used this, or the like speech. When I consider the cause of this war, and out present necessity, I have reason (me seems) to presume that this day, and this our general agreement, will give a happy beginning to the freedom of the whole Island. For we have all hitherto lived in liberty, and now no land remaineth beyond us: no sea for our safety: the Roman Navy (as you see) surveying and environging our coasts; so that combat and arms which men of virtue desire for honour, the dastard must also use for his security. The former battles which have with divers events been fought with the Romans, had their refuge & hope resting in our hands. For we the flower of the British Nobility, & seated in the furthest part of th'isle, did never yet see the borders of those countries, which were brought under servile subjection (our eyes being still kept unpolluted, & free from all contagion of tyranny.) Beyond us is no land: besides us none are free: us only hitherto, this corner and secret harbour hath defended; You see the uttermost part of the land is laid open, and things the less they have been within knowledge, the greater is the glory to atchive them. But what nation is there now beyond us? what else but water and rocks? and the Romans Lords of all within the land, whose intolerable pride in vain shall you seek to avoid by service and humble behaviour. They are the robbers of the world, that having now left no land to be spoiled, search also the sea. If the enemy be rich, they seek to win wealth: if poor, they are content to gain glory to themselves, whom neither the East nor West can satisfy, as being the only men of all memory, that seek out all places, be they wealthy, or poor, with like greedy affection. To take away by main force, to kill and spoil, falsely they term Empire & Government, when all is waste as a wilderness, that they call peace. His children & blood each man holds by nature most dear, & yet even they are pressed for Soldiers, & carried away to be slaves, we know not where. Our sisters and wives, though they be not violently forced, as in open hostility, yet are they under the colour & title of friends & guests, shamefully abused. Our goods & substance they daily draw from us, rewarding us only with stripes and indignities. Slaves which are borne to bondage, are sold but once, & after are fed at their owner's expenses: But Britanny daily buyeth, daily feedeth, and is at charges with her own bondage. And as in a private retinue, the fresh man and last comer is scoffed at by his fellow servants: so in this old servitude of the whole world, they seek only the destruction of us, as being the latest attempted, and of all others, in their opinion, the most vile. We have no fields to manure, no mines to be digged, no ports to trad● in; and to what purpose then should they keep us alive, considering that the manhood, and fierce courage of the subject doth not much please the jealous Sovereign? and this corner (being so secret & out of the way) the more security it yieldeth to us, the greater suspicion it worketh in them. Seeing therefore all hope of pardon is past, it behoveth you at length to show courage in defending and maintaining both your safety and honour. The Icenians led by a woman, fired the Roman Colony, forced the castles, & had the prosecution of the war been answerable to so lucky a beginning, the Southern Britan's might then with ease have shaken off the yoke, and prevented our peril. We, as yet, never touched, never subdued, but borne to be free, not slaves to the Romans: we (I say) are now to make proof of our valour, & to show in this encounter, what manner of men Caledonia hath reserved in store for herself. Do you think that the Romans be as valiant in war as they are wanton in peace? No, you are deceived. For they are grown famous, not by their own virtue, but by our jars and discord, while they make use of their enemy's faults, to the glory of their own army, composed of most divers nations; and therefore, as by present prosperity it is holden together: so doubtless (if fortune frown on that side) it will soon be dissolved: unless you suppose the Gauls and Germans, and (to our shame be it spoken) many of ou● own nation (which now lend their lives to establish a foreign usurper) to be led with any true hearted and faithful affection. No, it is rather with terror and distrust, (weak workers of love:) which if you remove, than those which have made an end to fear, will soon begin to hate. All things that may encourage, and give hope of victory, are now for us. The Romans have no wives to hearten them on, if they faint; no parents to upbraid them, if they fly. Most of them have no Country at all, or, if they have, it is some other men's. They stand like a sort of fearful persons trembling, & gazing at the strangeness of the heaven itself, at the sea, and the woods. And now the heavens (favouring our cause) have delivered them, mewed up (as it were) and fettered into our hands. Be not terrified, or dismayed with the vain show and glittering of their gold and silver, which of themselves do neither offend, nor defend. And think, that even amongst our enemies, we shall find some on our side, when the Britan's shall acknowledge their own cause, the Gauls remember their old freedom, and the rest of the Germans forsake them, as of late the Vsipians did. What then should we fear? The castles are empty, the Colonies peopled with aged & impotent persons: the free cities discontented, and distract with factions, whilst they which are under, obey with ill will, and they which do govern, rule against right. Here is the Roman General, and the army: there Tributes & Mines, with other miseries, inseparably following such as live under subjection of others; which, whether we are to endure for ever, or speedily to revenge, it lieth this day in this field to determine. Wherefore being now to join battle, bear in mind, I beseech you, both your ancestors (which lived in the happy estate of liberty) and your successors, who, (if you fail in this enterprise) shall live hereafter in perpetual servitude. This speech (delivered with great vehemency of voice and action) was cheerfully received by the Britan's with a song (after their barbarous fashion) accompanied with confused cries, and acclamations. CHAP. XIIII. The Romans prepare themselves to fight. The Oration of Agricola the General unto his Soldiers. AS the Roman Cohorts drew together, and discovered themselves, while some of the boldest pressed forward, the rest put themselves in array, and Agricola (albeit his soldiers were glad of that day) and could scarce with words have been withholden; yet supposing it fit to say somewhat, he encouraged them in this wise: Fellow Soldiers, and Companions in Arms, your faithful diligence and service, these eight years, so painfully performed, by the virtue and fortune of the Roman Empire, hath at length conquered Britanny. In so many journeys, so many battles we were of necessity to show ourselves, either valiant against the enemy, or patient and laborious, above, and against Nature itself. In all which exploits, we have both of us so carried ourselves hitherto, as neither I desired better Soldiers, nor you other Captain. We have exceeded the limits, I, of my predecessors, and you likewise of yours. The end of Britanny is now found, not by fame and report, but we are with our arms and pavilions, really invested thereof. Britanny is found, and subdued. In your marching heretofore, when the passage of bogs, Mountains, or Rivers troubled and tired you, how often have I heard the valiant Soldier say; When will the Enemy present himself? When shall we fight? Lo, now they are put out of their holes, and here they are come. Lo now your wish: Lo here the place for trial of your virtue, and all things likely to follow, in a good and easy course, if you win: contrariwise all against you, if you lose. For, as to have gone so much ground, escaped the woods and Bogs, and passed over so many arms of the sea, are honourable testimonies of your forwardness: so, if we fly, the advantages we have had, will become our greatest disadvantage. For we are not so skilful in the Country: we have not the like store of provision: we have only hands and weapons, wherein our hopes, our fortune, and all things else are included. For mine own part, I have been long since resolved, that to show our backs, is dishonourable, both for Soldier and General, and therefore a commendable death is better than life with reproach, (Surety and Honour commonly dwelling together;) Howbeit, if aught should misshapen in this enterprise, yet this will be a glory for us, to have died even in the uttermost end of the world, and of Nature. If new Nations and Soldiers unknown, were in the field, I would, by the example of other Armies, encourage you: But now I require you, only to recount your own victorious exploits, and to ask counsel of your own eyes. These are the same men, which the last year assailed one Legion by stealth in the night, and were suddenly, and (in a manner) by the blasts of your mouths, overthrown. These, of all the other Britan's, have been the most nimble in running away, and by that means, have escaped the longest alive. For, as in forests and woods, the strongest beasts are chased away by main force, and the cowardly and fearful scared only by the noise of the Hunters: so, the most valiant of the British nation, we have already dispatched; the rascal herd of dastardly cowards only remaineth. And lo, we have now at length found them, not as intending to stay and make head against us, but as last overtaken, and by extreme passion of fear, standing like stocks, and presenting occasion to us in this place, of a worthy and memorable victory. Now therefore, make a short work of our long warfare, and to almost fifty years travail, let this day impose a glorious end. Let each of you show his valour, and approve to your Country, that this army of ours could never justly be charged, either with protracting the war, for fear, or upon false pretences, for not accomplishing the Conquest. CHAP. XV. Agricola marshalleth his forces. The battle between the Romans and the Northern Britan's. Part of the British Army is defeated. AS Agricola was yet speaking, the Soldiers gave great tokens of their fervent desire to fight, and when he had ended his speech, they joyfully applauded it, running straightway to their weapons, and rushing furiously forward: which the Roman General perceiving, forthwith ordered his army in this manner. With the auxiliary footmen, he fortified the middle battle. The horsemen he placed in wings on both sides. The Legions he commanded to stand behind, before the trench of the Camp, to the greater glory of the victory, if it were obtained, without Roman blood, or otherwise for assistance, if the forward should be distressed. The Britan's were marshaled on the higher ground fitly for show, to terrify their enemies: the first troup standing on the plain, the rest on the ascent of the hill, rising up as it were by degrees, one over another: the middle of the field was filled with Chariots and horsemen, clattering and running round about. Then Agricola finding them to exceed him in number, and fearing lest he should be assailed on the front and flanks, both at one instant, thought it best to display his army in length, and although by that means the battle would become disproportionably long, and many advised him to take in the Legions: yet he confidently rejected the counsel, & leaving his horse, avanced himself before the Ensigns on foot. In the first encounter before they joined, both sides discharged, and threw their darts. The Britan's employing both Art and Valour, with their great swords and little targets, defended themselves, and wounded their enemies, till Agricola espying his vantage, appointed three a Companies of Hollanders Batavian Cohorts, and two of the b The ancient inhabitants of the Territory of Liege, in the Low Countries. Tungrians, to press forward, and to bring the matter to handy strokes, and dint of sword; which they, by reason of their long service, were able readily to perform, to the prejudice of the other side, in regard of their little bucklers, and huge swords. For, the swords of the Britan's being weighty, and blunt pointed, were no way fit, either for the close, or open fight. Now, as the Batavians began to strike them on the faces with the pikes of their bucklers, and (having over-borne such as resisted) to march up to the mountains: the rest of the Cohorts (gathering courage upon emulation) violently beat down all about them, and running forward, left some of the Britan's half dead, some wholly untouched, for haste, and desire to have part of the glory in winning the field. In the mean time, both the Chariots of the Britan's, mingled themselves with their enemy's battle of footmen, and also their troops of horsemen, (albeit they had lately terrified others:) yet now themselves (beginning to fly) were distressed by the un-evennesse of the ground, and the thick ranks of their enemies, who continued the fight, till the Britan's, by main weight of their own horses and Chariots, were borne down one upon an other; the masterless horses affrighted, running up and down with the Chariots, and many times over-bearing their friends, which either met them, or thwarted their way. CHAP. XVI. The other part of the British Army is overthrown. The Romans pursuing the Britan's through the woods) in danger to have been entrapped. The lamentable estate of the Britan's. NOw the Britan's (which stood aloof from the battle, upon the top of the hills, and did at the first (in a manner) disdain the small number of their enemies) began to come down by little and little, and sought to fetch a compass about the backs of the Romans, which were then in train of winning the field. But Agricola suspecting as much, opposed them with certain wings of horsemen, purposely retained about him for sudden dispatches, upon all chances, and repulsed them as fiercely, as they ran to assail. So the counsel of the Britan's turning to their own hurt, the Roman wings were commanded to forsake the battle, and follow the flight. Then were there pitiful spectacles to be seen; pursuing: wounding: taking prisoners: and then killing such as were taken, as soon as others came in the way. Then whole Regiments of the Britan's, (though armed, & more in number) turned their backs to the fewer: others unarmed sought their own death, offering themselves voluntarily to the slaughter. The fields every where were imbrued with blood: Every where weapons lay scattered: wounded bodies: mangled limbs: some slain outright: some half dead: some yielding up the ghost: and yet, even at the last gasp, seeming by their countenances to discover both anger and valour. Such of the Britan's, as in flying, recovered the woods, joined themselves together again, and entrapped unawares, some of the Roman Soldiers, that unadvisedly followed, not knowing the Country; And if Agricola had not, by his presence and direction assisted at need, setting about them his most expert footmen, (as it were in form of a Toil) and commanding some of his horsemen to leave their horses, (where the passage was narrow) and others to enter single, on horseback, where the wood was thin, doubtless the Romans had taken a blow, by their over much boldness. But after that the Britan's saw them again in good array, and orderly following the chase, they fled, (not in troops as before, when they attended each other, but utterly disbanded, shunning all compapany) toward the desert and far distant places. The darkness of the night, and satiety of blood, made an end of the chase. Of the Britan's were then slain about ten thousand: of the Romans, three hundred and forty; amongst whom, the chief man of note was Aulus Atticus, the Captain of a Cohort, who upon a youthful heat, and through the fierceness of his horse, was carried into the midst of his enemies. That night the winners refreshed themselves, taking pleasure in talking of the victory, and dividing the spoil. But the Britan's being utterly discouraged, crying, and howling, (both men and women together) took, and drew with them their wounded persons: calling the not wounded: forsaking their own houses, and in despite, setting them on fire: then seeking holes abroad to lurk in, and having found them, straightway again forsaking them: sometimes communicating Counsels together, and conceiving some little hope: and then by and by dejected and desperate: sometimes moved with pity at the sight of their kinsfolks and friends, and sometimes stirred with rage and envy, in thinking and speaking of their enemies, and (which was most lamentable) some of them, by way of compassion and mercy, killing their own children and wives. CHAP. XVII. The Britan's are dispersed, and unable to renew the war. Agricola commandeth the Admiral of his Fleet to sail about Britanny. He planteth Garrisons upon the Northern Borders, between the two arms of the Sea. Domitian the Emperor, being advertised of his fortunate success in the British war, is tormented with envy and jealousy. Agricola yieldeth up the Province to Salustius Lucullus. THe day following did more plainly discover the greatness of the victory, by the calamity of the vanquished. Desolation and silence every where: the smoke of the houses fired, appeared a far off: no sallies out of the woods: no stirring in the mountains: no man to make resistance, or to meet with the Roman spies, who being sent abroad into all quarters, found by the print of the Britan's footsteps, that their flight was uncertain, and that they were nowhere in companies together, but scattered in diverse places, and altogether unable to make any new attempt upon the sudden. Wherefore Agricola, the summer being now spent in this journey, and the time passed for employment elsewhere, brought his army into the borders of the a The ancient inhabitants of Eskdale in Scotland, (as it is conjectured.) Horrestians Country, where having received hostages of the inhabitants, he commanded the Admiral of his Navy, (being furnished with Soldiers, and sufficient strength for that purpose) to sail about Britanny, whither the fame and terror of the Roman name, was already gone before. Then he planted Garrisons upon the borders between Glota & Bodotria, and disposed of his footmen and horsemen in the wintering places within the Province. Thus, after many conflicts, about the space of one hundred thirty six years from julius Caesar's first entrance, the utmost limits of Britanny, and the Isles of the Orchades lying on the North side of it, were by the valour and industry of julius Agricola, first discovered, and made known to the Romans: and the South part of the I'll, in the fourth year of the reign of Domitian, (being in the year of our Redemption 86.) reduced into a full Province, the government whereof, was peculiar to the Roman Emperors themselves, and not at the disposition of the Senate. This state of affairs here, Agricola signified by letters (without any amplifying terms) to Domitian, (the successor of Titus, his brother in the Empire) who after his manner, with a cheerful countenance, and grieved heart, received the news, being inwardly pricked with anger and disdain, to think, that his late counterfeit Triumph of Germany (wherein a show was made of slaves, bought for money, attired like captives of that Country,) was had in derision, and justly scorned abroad; whereas now a true and great victory (so many thousands of enemies being slain) was currant in every man's mouth; Besides, he esteemed it as a most perilous point in a State, that a private man's name should be exalted above the name of a Prince; and he supposed, that he had in vain suppressed the study of Oratory, and all other politic Arts, if he should in military glory, be excelled by another; for matters of other kinds (as he supposed) might more easily be passed over: but to be a good Commander of an Army, was to be above a private estate, (that being a virtue peculiar for a Prince.) Domitian being tormented with these and the like conceits, and musing much in his closet alone, (which was commonly noted, as a sign of some mischief in working) thought it best for the present, to cloak and dissemble his malice, till the heat of Agricolaes' glory, and the love of his soldiers were somewhat abated (for as yet Agricola remained in office.) Wherefore he commanded, that all the honours of Triumphal ornaments, the image Triumphal, and what else was usually bestowed in am of Triumph, should in most ample and honourable terms, be awarded him in Senate: And then sending a successor, he caused a bruit to be spread, that the Province of Syria, (which was then void, and specially reserved for men of great quality) should be assigned to Agricola. The common opinion was, that Domitian, sending one of his most secret and trustrie servants unto him, sent withal, the commission of Lieutenancie for Syria, with private instructions, that if Agricola, at the time of his coming should be still in Britanny, than it should be delivered: if otherwise, it should be kept back; and that the same man meeting Agricola as he crossed the seas, without speaking to him, or delivering his message, returned again to Domitian. Whether this were true, or feigned upon a probable surmise, as agreeable to the Prince's disposition, it could not directly be affirmed; but in the mean season, Agricola had yielded up the Province in good and peaceable estate unto Cneus Trebellius, or rather (as some writer's report) to Salustius Lucullus. CHAP. XVIII. Agricola returneth to Rome, and is admitted to the presence of Domitian the Emperor. He betaketh himself to a retired life. He is poisoned. Salustius Lucullus his successor in the Government of the Province, protecteth Arviragus the British Prince. He is put to d●ath by the commandment of Domitian. AGricola, lest his coming to Rome should have been noted, by reason of the multitude, of people, which would have gone out to see, and meet him, did warily cut off the occasion of that courtesy, entering the City by night; and by night, (as he was commanded) came to the palace, where being admitted to the Prince's presence, and received with a short salutation, and no further speech, he sorted himself with other Gentlemen of his rank, carrying himself ever after very temperately and warily in all his actions, as knowing the present state of those times, and the dangerous inclination of the Emperor himself, who being (as all other Princes are commonly) more fearful and jealous of the good, than the bad, envied in him, those virtues, and that honourable reputation, whereof himself was not capable; Yet, as good deserts cannot be hid, (true worthiness shining even in darkness itself:) so the retired life which Agricola led, did nothing diminish his glory, but rather, like water sprinkled upon a burning fire, increased, and continued the heat thereof. Divers times was he accused in his absence (which ministered to his ill willers opportunity of working his disgrace,) and as often in absence's was he acquitted, the opinion only of his good deserts, and no matter of crime giving the occasion, while such as highly commended him to the Emperor, (seeming his friends, but being (indeed) the most pestilent kind of enemies) procured underhand his peril and ruin in the end. Howbeit, the ill success of the Roman armies in divers Provinces at that time, serving as a foil to set out his honourable actions, drew him perforce into glory: and Domitian made pretences of his purpose to employ him, thinking thereby to satisfy the people, who then complained of the want of good Leaders. But Virtue, that never continueth long time in prosperous estate, (as being the common object of envy,) hastened the death of Agricola, who (as the constant fame went,) was made away by poison, and that not without the emperors knowledge, and consent. These things concerning Agricolaes' government in Britanny, I have set down particularly, as they are reported by Cornelius Tacitus, who writ the story of his life, which remaineth to the world, as a perpetual monument of the doings of the one, and the writings of the other. Salustius Lucullus succeeding Agricola, left little memory of himself, by doing any thing here, either for that no occasion was then offered to show himself in action, or else, for that the fame of so worthy a predecessor blemished his reputation. For having held the office but a short time, he was by commandment of Domitian put to death, for suffering certain Spears of new fashion, to be called by his own name. About this time Arviragus a Britain by birth, and education, did govern (as King) part of the I'll of Britanny, the Romans accounting it a point of policy to permit the Britan's sometimes to be ruled by Princes of their own Nation, whose aid and counsel, they might use (upon occasions) to the pacifying of rebellions, and the establishing of their own greatness; For the common people, (whose affection doth oft times sway the fortunes of great Princes) are much more easily brought under the obedience of their own Countrymen, then of strangers. The end of the second Book of the first Part of the History of Great Britanny. The succession of the Roman Emperors, from Nerva Cocceius unto Honorius, in whose time the Romans gave over the government of Britanny. 13 Nerva Cocceius, reigned one year, and four Months. 14 Vlpius Trajanus, (a Spaniard) nineteen years, and six months. 15 Aelius Adrianus, twenty years. 16 Antoninus Pius, twenty three years. 17 M. Aurel: Antoninus Philosophus, nineteen years. L: Verus, his Colleague in the Empire. 18 Aurel. Commodus, (the son of Antoninus Philosophus) thirteen years. 19 Aelius Pertinax, six months. 20 Didius julianus, seven months. 21 Septimius Severus Brit: eighteen years. Pessenius Niger, Usurpers. Clodius Albinus. 22 Anton: Bassianus Caracalla Brit: (the eldest son of Sept: Severus) six years. Geta, Caesar Brit. (the younger son of Sept. Severus.) 23 Opilius Macrinus, one year, and two months. 24 Varius Heliogabalus (the base son of Caracalla 4. year. 25 Alexander Severus (a kinsman of Heliogab.) 13. year. 26 Iul: Maximinus, three years. Caesar's elected. Balbinus, Pupienus, 27 Gordianus, (the father, with his two sons, and his Nephew) six years. C. Valens Hostilianus Caesar. 28 Philippus the Arabian, five years. 29 Decius Trajanus, two years. 30 Vibius Pallus Hostilianus (with his son Volusianus) two years. 31 Aemilius (of Mauritania) three months. 32 Licinius Valerianus, fifteen years. 33 Gallienus (the son of Valerianus) nine years. Valerianus (the brother of Gallienus Caesar.) Cassus Labienus Posthumus, Caes. 34 Flavius Claudius, two years. 35 Aurelius Quintillus (the brother of Claudius. 17. days. 36 Valerius Aurelianus, five years, and six months. 37 Tacitus, six months. 38 Annius Florianus (the brother of Tacitus) sixty days. 39 Valerius Probus, six years, and four months. 40 Carus Narbonensis, two years. Caesar's, the sons of Carus. Numerianus, Carinus, 41 Dioclesianus, twenty years. Maximianus Herculeius Caesar. 42 Constantius Chlorus, four years. 43 Galerius Maximus, eleven years. Caesar's. Severus, Maximianus, 44 Maxentius, (the son of Maximian) six years. 45 Licinius, fourteen years. 46 Constantinus Magnus, thirty years. Magnentius Usurper. The three sons of Constantine the Great. Constantinus, Constans, 47 Costantius, 24. years, 48 julianus Apostata, one year, six months. 49 jovinianus, eight months. 50 Valentinianus, twelve years. Valens (his brother) Caesar. 51 Gratianus, six years. Valentinianus, Caesar. Theodosius, Caesar. 52 Theodosius, three years. 53 Arcadius, thirteen years. 54 Honorius twenty eight years. ❧ lieutenants in Britanny from Nerva Cocceius his entrance into the Government of the Empire, until the reign of Honorius the Emperor. Lieutenants under the emperors Nerva and Traianus. ¶ There is no mention of any Lieutenants in Britanny, during the time of their government. lieutenants under Adrian: Brit. ¶ julius Severus. ¶ Priscus Licinius. Lieutenants under Antoninus Pius. ¶ Lollius Vrbicus. Brit. Lieutenants under Antoninus Philosophus. ¶ Calphurnius Agricola. Lieutenants under Commodus. ¶ Vlpius Marcellus. ¶ Helvius Pertinax. ¶ Clodius Albinus. ¶ junius Severus. Lieutenants under Pertinax. ¶ Clodius Albinus. Lieutenants under Did: julianus. ¶ Clodius Albinus. Lieutenants under Sept. Severus Brit. ¶ Heraclianus. ¶ Virius Lupus. From the time of Bassianus Caracalla, the Successor of Severus, unto Constantine the great, there is no mention in approved Histories of any Lieutenants in Britanny. Deputies under Constantine the Great. ¶ Pacatianus. Deputies under Constantius the youngest son of Constantine the Great. ¶ Martinus. ¶ Alipius. Deputies under Honorius. ¶ Chrysanthus. ¶ Victorinus. Princes and secular men of special note among the Britan's. In the time of Calphurnius Agricolaes' government, under M. Aur. Antoninus Philosophus. Lucius surnamed Lever-Maur, the first Christian Prince in Britanny. In the reign of Aurelianus. Bonosus, Usurper of the Empire in Britanny. In the reign of Constantius the youngest son of Constantine the Great. Magnentius Taporus, usurper of the Empire in Britanny. Archbishops of London from the time of Lucius, until the coming in of the Saxons. 1 Thean. 2 Clavus. 3 Cador. 4 Obinns. 5 Conanus. 6 Paladius. 7 Stephanus. 8 Iltut. 9 Dedwinus. 10 Thedredus. 11 Hillarius. 12 Guidilinus. 13 Vodinus, who lived, when the Saxons first entered the land. THE FIRST PART: The third Book. IMP: NERVA CAES: AVG: P. M. TR: P. P. P. portrait of Nerva CHAP. I. Nerva Cocceius succeed Domitian in the Empire, leaving the same soon after to Vlpius Trajanus. Adrianus, the successor of Trajan, sendeth julius Severus into Britanny, to defend the borders of the Province, against the incursions of the Northern Britan's. The Emperor himself with an Army, entereth the Island, and buildeth there a wall of Turfs, for defence of the Province. Licinius Priscus is Governor of Britanny. HItherto hath been declared the success of times and affairs in Britanny, under the first twelve Emperors of Rome; the same being recorded by such Writers, as had best means to understand the truth thereof, and were the principal Registrers of things done by the Romans in those times. As for the occurrents ensuing the death of Domitian, until the reign of Honorius, (in whose time the Roman government ceased) they are imperfectly reported, or a great part of them merely omitted: so that I am forced, of many things to make only a bare and brief relation, as unwilling, by adding or diminishing, to alter, in substance, what Antiquity hath left us, or to fill up blanks with conjectures or projects of mine own invention. And therefore, howsoever this Book following, (which comprehendeth the acts of many more years than the former) may seem to carry with it, a kind of disproportion from the other two, and likewise in respect of the style and composition, to be somewhat differing from them: yet, the cause thereof aught to be imputed to the very matters themselves, (being, for the most part, fragments, and naked memorials, (the loose ends of Time) without observation of circumstances, or congruity in substance,) which will hardly admit any method fitting a continuate History: And I owe so much love and reverence to Truth, as I would rather expose her in the meanest and worst habit that Time hath left her, then by disguising her, to abuse the world, and make her seem a counterfeit. DOmitian the Emperor being slain, Nerva Cocceius, (a Prince much honoured for his virtues) succeeded in the Empire; But in what estate the affairs of Britanny then stood, the histories of those times make no mention, either for that the Emperor being a man stricken in years, and disposed to ease and quietness, employed himself, rather in reforming abuses at home, then in maintaining war abroad, or else, for that the short continuance of his government, did not suffer him to enter into any great actions in places so remote; for having held the Empire little above a year, he left the same, by death, to Vlpius Traianus, a Spaniard, whom he had adopted, for his valour and wisdom, (beginning even then the first precedent of electing strangers. In his time, some of the Britan's, desirous to free themselves from the Roman tyranny, entered into rebellion, but wanting means to effect what they had begun, they soon gave over the enterprise. Howbeit Aelius Adrianus, (who succeeded trajan in the Empire) having intelligence, that the Northern Britan's made incursions into the Province, sent over julius Severus to impeach their attempts; but before he could make an end of the war, he was revoked & sent into Syria, to suppress the jewish rebellion; & Adrian the Emperor himself came with an Army into Britanny, where he encountered those Northern riders, recovered such Forts as they had taken, & forced them to retire to the Mountains and woods, whither the Roman horsemen, without danger, could not pursue them. And then fortifying the borders of the Province, by raising a wall of Turfs, about eighty miles in length, (between the mouths of the rivers a The river Eden in Cumberland. Ituna and b The river Tyne in Northumberland. Tina,) to defend the inhabitants thereof, from the sudden assaults of their ill neighbours, he returned triumphantly to Rome. This exploit won much reputation to the Roman Army, and no small honour to the Emperor himself, who was then called, The Restorer of Britanny, and had the same inscription figured in the stamp of his Coin. Now the Britan's dwelling within the Province, seemed, for the most part; patiently to bear the yoke, (which Custom had made less painful, and they obeyed the more willingly, as standing in need of the Romans help against their own Country men, whose cruelty was now as much feared, as in former times the invasion of strangers. Whereupon they conformed themselves to the Roman laws, both in martial and civil affairs, which were then principally directed by Licinius Priscus, who had been (not long before) employed by Adrian the Emperor, in the expedition of jury, and was at that time Propraetor of a Lieutenant. Britanny. CHAP. II. Lollius Vrbicus is Lieutenant of Britanny under Antoninus Pius, (the successor of Adrian the Emperor.) He erecteth another wall of Turfs, for defence of the Province, and appeaseth the brigants, (the ancient inhabitants of the Counties of York, Lancaster, Durham, Westmoreland, and Cumberland,) beginning to revolt. Seius Saturninus Admiral of the British Fleet, guardeth the Sea coasts. M: Aurelius Antoninus surnamed Philosophus, succeed Antoninus Pius in the Empire: and Calphurnius Agricola, Lollius Vrbicus (Britannicus) in the Province. A Ntoninus Pius succeeded Adrianus the Emperor, when (Lollius Vrbicus being Lieutenant) the Northern people made a road into the Province, but were beaten back by the Roman forces that lay upon the borders: and then was there another wall of Turfs built by commandment of the Lieutenant, to strengthen those parts, with a double rampire. In the mean time, a new war was kindled among the b The ancient inhabitants of the Counties of York, Lancaster, Durham, Westmoreland, and C●mberland. brigants, that annoyed some of the Roman confederates: but by the discretion of the General, it was quenched before it came to a flame. For Lollius Vrbicus, upon the first rumour of the revolt, marched thither with part of the army, leaving the rest behind to guard the borders: and Seius Saturninus, Admiral of the British Fleet, being well appointed by Sea, lay upon the North side of the I'll, to defend the Coasts, and (upon occasions) to further the land-service; by this means the brigants were easily reduced to obedience, even by the presence only of the Lieutenant, who for his good service done in Britanny, during the short time of his employment there, obtained the surname of Britannicus. Antoninus Pius being dead, and Marcus Aurelius surnamed Philosophus, possessed of the Empire: Calphurnius Agricola was made Lieutenant of the Province, who at his first entrance into office, understood of some new tumults raised during the vacation; but partly, by policy, in preventing occasions, and partly, by show of force, (his very name striking a terror in the inhabitants, by reviving the memory of julius Agricola) he in short time appeased them, deserving thereby great commendation, though the glory of such exploits, was, for the most part, attributed to the Emperors themselves, (the labour and peril in attempting, and commonly disgrace and envy after victory) remaining only, as rewards to their ministers. CHAP. III. Elutherius the Bishop of Rome, sendeth Preachers into Britanny, to instruct the inhabitants there in the Christian Faith. Lucius, the first Christian Prince in Britanny. The planting and propagation of religion among the Britan's. NOw was the time come (namely, about one hundred and fourscore years after the birth of our Saviour) when Christian religion, which many years together had been (for the most part) shadowed with the dark clouds of heathenish superstition, began to discover itself more openly in this Island, by the means of Lucius, surnamed Lever-Maur, who by permission of the Roman Lieutenant, did govern, as King, a great part of the Province. For it appeareth by the testimony of some ancient Writers, that Britanny received the Christian faith, even in the infancy of the Church, immediately after the death of our Saviour Christ, whose Apostles and Disciples, (according to his commandment) published and dispersed the same in diverse Regions, partly by themselves in their own persons, and partly by their ministers; among whom were sent into Britanny, Simon Chananaeus, that after his peregrination in Mauritania, (as it is reported) was slain, and buried in the Island: Aristobolus a Roman, of whom Saint Paul in his Epistles maketh mention: and joseph of Arimathia, a Nobleman of jury, specially remembered of posterity, for his charitable act in burying the body of our Saviour. This man was appointed by Philip the Apostle, (then preaching the Christian faith in Gallia) to instruct the ancient Britan's, among whom he began first, (as some write) to institute an Eremitical life, in a place then called Avalonia, and afterwards Glastenbury, where himself, and his companions, imitating the austerity and zeal of solitude, which they had observed in Mary Magdalen, (with whom they traveled out of jury unto Marsilia in France) sequestered themselves from all worldly affairs, that they might freely intend the exercise of piety, which they professed. Yea, some Writers of former ages have constantly affirmed, that the Apostles, Saint Peter and Saint Paul, in their own persons at several times, came into Britanny: and that afterwards one Sueton, a Nobleman's son of that Country, being converted by such Christians as first planted the faith there, and called (after his baptism) Beatus, was sent by them to Rome, unto Saint Peter, to be better instructed and confirmed in Christianity: and that in his return homewards through Switzerland, he found in the inhabitants there, such a desire and readiness to receive the Christian faith, as he resolved to continue in that place, where he erected an Oratory to exercise a Monastical life, and departed the world about the year of Grace, 110. But, who were the very first teachers, and at what time the Christian faith was first of all received there, it is not certainly known; howbeit it is likely, (as I have before remembered) that in the expedition of Claudius the Emperor, (which was about the third year of his reign, and twelve years after the ascension of our Saviour) some Christians of Rome, and scholars of the Apostles themselves, (by occasion of those wars, and by reason of the intercourse of affairs between both Nations) became first known to the Britan's: who in process of time, were drawn by the exhortations and examples of their teachers, to embrace the truth: the unblamable life of those religious men, moving sometimes even their Princes (though yet unbelieving) to protect and regard them, as Lucius then began to do. Besides that, the Roman Lieutenants also, as well in Britanny as other Provinces, did sometimes tolerate the exercise of Christian Religion, as not altogether disliking it, howsoever for worldly respects, they forbore to show themselves openly in favour of it. But Lucius declared his inclination thereto after another manner; For inwardly disliking the profane superstitions then used among the Romans, and being informed of the great constancy, virtue, and patience of the Christians at Rome, and other places, in suffering persecution and Martyrdom for the faith of Christ, whereby the number of Christians (whom many men esteemed for the miracles which they wrought) was (contrary to common expectation) daily increased: that Pertinax and Tre●ellius, two worthy Senators of Rome, had been lately converted from Paganism, to Christianity: that Marcus Aurelius, (the Roman Emperor then reigning) began to conceive a better opinion of them, than himself and his predecessors had done: and so much the rather, by reason he had (not long before) obtained a famous victory against his enemies; the prosperous event whereof, he attributed to the prayers of the Christians at Rome: Upon these considerations, Lucius determined to be instructed in the Religion which they professed: and first of all, he commanded Elvanus and Meduinus, (two learned men of the British Nation) to go to Rome, (where Elutherius was then Bishop) to require some meet persons to be sent into Britanny, to instruct him and his people: for which purpose, Fugatius and Damianus, were specially appointed by Elutherius, with all speed to repair thither; where they afterwards (not without some danger by tempest upon the seas) arrived, and applied themselves both by doctrine and example, to perform the charge committed unto them: the success therein proving answerable to their endeavours. For the Prince and his family was by them baptized: some of the inhabitants that had formerly received the faith, were confirmed therein, and others that remained yet in their infidelity, were converted to Christianity. CHAP. FOUR Lucius Sendeth to Rome for the Laws of the Empire. The The counsel of Elutherius Bishop of Rome touching same. Idolatry suppressed in Lucius his dominions, and Ecclesiastical jurisdiction established there. The first Archbishop of London. But Lucius the Prince (having received instructions from the Sea of Rome, for the direction of himself, and his people, in the profession and exercise of Christian Religion) was desirous also to order his temporal estate, according to the Roman policy, and to that end solicited Elutherius the Bishop, to send unto him the laws of the Empire, out of which he might collect, and compose some certain ordinances for the administration of civil justice; whereupon Elutherius sent Letters to the Prince, commending therein his former zealous disposition in embracing the Truth: then exhorting him to read, with humility and reverence, the holy Scripture (the divine law) which he had lately received in his dominions, and out of that (by God's grace and advise of faithful Counsellors) to collect meet observations for the framing of laws necessary for the preservation of his estate: which observations so collected, and laws so framed, he did affirm to be much better, than the Imperial Constitutions of the Romans, or any other whatsoever: that, to make laws, and execute justice, was the proper office of a Prince, who was upon earth the Vicar of God himself, and received from him that title and authority, to the end he should use the same to the good of the Catholic Church, and of the people living under his obedience. Hereupon Lucius began first of all to provide for establishment of that Religion, whereof he was become at the self same time, both a professor and practiser. Then was the worshipping of Images forbidden. The seats of the Archflamins at London, York, and Chester, were changed into the Seas of three Archbishops in the same places, and those of the Flamens, into so many bishoprics, whereby the Temples vowed by Idolatrous Priests to profane gods, were consecrated to the service of the only true God. His temporal estate also he adorned with good & profitable laws, conformable to the rule of Christian Religion; whereupon ensued the blessings of Plenty and Peace in his days. It is reported, that he was founder of a Church at Cornhill in London, which he dedicated to Saint Peter, placing therein one Thean, an Archbishop, to have a superintendence over the other Bishops within his principality: and that the Metropolitan seat continued there in the succession of 13. Archbishops (about the space of 400. years) until the coming of Augustine the Monk, who translated the archbishopric from London to Canterbury. And now Christianity (being thus generally received among the Britan's) kept on her course untainted, and without opposition, till the time of Dioclesian the Emperor, who kindled the fire of that raging persecution (the last and longest in the Primitive Church) which consumed the lives of many Christian Martyrs, as well in Britanny, as other places. But returning to the reign of Lucius, and considering the state of Britanny under his government: we may justly admire the felicity of those times, ascribing to the Britan's for their greatest glory, that among all other nations, they had the happiness to see and enjoy the first Christian Prince. CHAP. V. The Northern Britan's breaking down Adrian's wall upon the borders, enter and annoy the Province. Vlpius Marcellus, being sent by Commodus the Emperor to take charge of the army in Britanny, beateth them back. The rare virtues of Vlpius Marcellus the Governor. He is dismissed of his office. THis was the state of the Church in Britanny, when new troubles began to the disturbance of the Province. For the Northern Britan's making a breach in the wall, which Adrian the Emperor had built, and finding the borders but weakly guarded, entered the Province, and surprising the Roman General, killed many of his Soldiers, then ranging the countries: they wasted and spoiled every where without resistance, till Vlpius Marcellus being sent over by Commodus the Emperor, stayed their fury, and with great difficulty, forced them to retire within the Wall. By which means the Province being quieted, he applied himself to reform abuses in his Camp, reviving the ancient discipline of war, which had been for a time discontinued among the Roman soldiers, whom long service, and many victories had made bold to say, and do oft times more than became them. For Marcellus indeed was a man somewhat austere, in reproving and punishing: otherwise very temperate: diligent in time of war: not idle in peace: his diet was the same which the common Soldier used: in quantity more sparing: for he would eat no bread, but such as was brought from Rome: which he did, to the end he might avoid excess, and take no more than sufficed Nature (the staleness of the bread having taken away all taste, that might either please the sense, or provoke the appetite.) The day time, for the most part, he spent in viewing his Camp, in training young Soldiers, and giving direction to Officers. In the night he wrote Letters, and made his dispatches into divers parts of the Province, (as occasion required.) He slept very little, by reason of his thin diet, and much business (wherewith he was continually occupied;) for he thought [that he which slept a whole night together, was no meet man, to be either a Counsellor to a Prince, or the Commander of an Army.] Every Evening he used to write instructions upon twelve Tables made of Linden tree, which Tables he delivered to one of his servants, appointing him to carry them at sundry hours of the night, to certain of his Soldiers, who thereby supposing that their General was still waking, and not gone to his bed) were the more careful in keeping the watch, and preventing sudden attempts in the night season. He was severe in execution of justice: not to be led by favour: nor to be corrupted by bribes. He levied money, only as necessary for the war, not to enrich himself, or his friends, as other governors in former times had done; for he never preferred his own private, before the public; nor a wealthy estate before an honourable reputation. The fame of these virtues as they made him much respected, both of his own Soldiers, and of the Britan's: so they procured Envy, which always followeth Virtue inseparably, as a shadow doth the body. For Commodus the Emperor understanding, how Marcellus had carried himself in Britanny, was much displeased therewith; and doubting lest he should grow too great, he thought it best to cut him off. But some accidents happening in the mean time, to make him change that purpose, he only sent Letters of discharge, and so dismissed him of the Office. CHAP. VI A Mutiny in the Roman army. Perennius undertaketh to appease it. He is accused, and put to death. Helvius Pertinax being sent by Commodus to pacify the tumults in the army, is in danger to be slain. He maketh suit to be discharged of the Lieutenancie. AFter departure of Marcellus, the army having been kept in by hard hand, and finding now the rain let loose, upon asuddaine began to be mutinous, and refused openly to acknowledge Commodus for their Emperor. These disorders, Perennius, one of his favourites took upon him to redress, by displacing such persons as he suspected, and committing their offices to men of meaner quality: wherewith the Legions were much discontented, disdaining, that in steed of Senators, and men of Consular degree, they should now be governed by upstarts, and base Companions. In the heat of these broils, about fifteen hundred Soldiers forsook the army, and went to Rome, where they exhibited to the Emperor, a Bill of Complaint against Perennius, whom they charged as the chief Author of the dissension in the Army, by bringing in new customs, by exceeding his commission, & doing things derogatory to the majesty of the Roman Empire. These, & other things, (as well false as true) were objected against him by the multitude, who for the most part, dislike such as exercise authority over them, and keep no measure in their affections, either of love, or hatred. But, (that which touched to the quick) was an accusation of treason put up against him, for conspiring against the life of the Emperor, and in seeking to advance his son to the Empire. This point was quickly apprehended by Commodus, who thought that the suspicion of the fact, or the report only to have intended it, was a sufficient cause of condemnation, howsoever the party accused was indeed, either guilty, or innocent. Hereupon Perennius was declared Traitor, and delivered to the Soldiers, who stripped him of his apparel, whipped him with rods, and in the end, cruelly murdered him. Then Helvius Pertinax (a man of mean fortune by birth, as having risen from the state of a common Soldier to the dignity of a Commander) was sent into Britanny to appease the tumults there. He was one of them that Perennius had before discharged from bearing office, and sent into Liguria, where he was borne. At his first entrance, he attempted by force to suppress the rebellion of the army, adventuring so far in a skirmish, that though he escaped with life, yet was he left among the dead, and supposed to be slain. Afterwards proceeding with better advice, and success, he compo●ed the troubles, severely punishing the principal offen●●●●, and using some rigour in revenging his own injuries; by which means growing odious to the Soldier, and distrusting his own safety, he made suit to be discharged of the Lieutenantship. CHAP. VII. Clodius Albinus succeed Pertinax in the government of the Province. He is honoured with the title of Caesar. Being suspected of Commodus the Emperor, he retireth himself from affairs. Helvius Pertinax, and Didius julianus are elected Emperors successively after the death of Commodus. Severus succeed julianus in the Empire. Heraclianus is Governor of the Province, which he afterwards resigneth to Virius Lupus. War between Severus the Emperor, and Clodius Albinus. The death of Albinus. THen was the government of the Province assigned to Clodius Albinus, a man of noble birth, very forward, and for the most part, fortunate in his attempts: for which the Emperor Commodus, either upon fear, or favour, did honour him with the title of a Caesar, though Albinus seemed unwilling to accept it; and afterwards discovered his disposition more openly, in affecting the ancient free state. For, upon a false report of the death of Commodus, he made an oration to the Legions in Britanny, in favour of the Senate, whose government he had commended, and preferred the same before that of the Emperors. But Commodus being advertised thereof, sent junius Severus with all speed, to take charge of the Army. In the mean time, Albinus retired himself from affairs, till Commodus was dead, and Pertinax elected Emperor. Then he combined himself with Didius julianus, whom the soldiers (that then made open sale of the Empire,) had elected after the death of Pertinax. But julianus being infamous for his vices, and failing to perform his promise made to the Soldiers, was in a short time forsaken of them, and afterwards murdered. Upon report of julianus his death, Septimius Severus (a man adorned with excellent gifts of nature) was declared Emperor; and for that he feared Clodius Albinus, (who then had recovered the government of Britanny) he made him his associate in the Empire, and sent Heraclianus to be Lieutenant of the Province, which, Heraclianus soon after resigned to Virius Lupus. But desire of Sovereignty, (that cannot long endure equality of degree) made the one jealous of the other, and the fire of ambition (that had been smothered for a time) burst out at length into a flame. For Severus having pacified some tumults in the West part of the world, and after many conflicts subdued, Pescenius Niger, (who usurped the Empire in the East) pretended the breach of Association, as a colour to make war upon Albinus, who understanding thereof, transported over the seas, a mighty Army, furnished with abundance of victual out of the I'll itself, which then (through the industry of the inhabitants, applying themselves to tillage and husbandry,) yielded plenty of grain, and served the Romans as the Garner of the West Empire, out of which they carried yearly great quantities of corn, to maintain their Armies in Gallia and Germany. near a Lions in France. Lugdunum in Gallia, Severus encountered with Albinus, whose forces were there defeated, and himself slain. CHAP. VIII. Severus the Emperor, maketh preparation for a voyage into Britanny. The civil government of the Province, committed to Geta his younger son, whom Papinianus the famous Lawyer assisteth in the administration of justice there. Severus with Bassianus his elder son, marcheth towards Caledonia. Mortality in the Roman Camp. The Caledonians obtain peace upon conditions. Bassianus taketh the charge of the army, and Severus his father returns into the Province. THen Severus made preparation for his voyage into Britanny, which by reason of the often change of Governors, was grown much out of order; and although the Britan's, upon intelligence of his purpose, did send over Ambassadors, to offer their voluntary submission: yet the Emperor (in whom neither age nor sickness had abated the heat of ambition) would not directly accept thereof, but entertained them with delays, till all things were in readiness for his expedition: [So earnest a desire he had to pass into the furthest part of Britanny, and to purchase the surname of Britannicus, as an honourable addition to his other titles.] His two sons Bassianus (commonly called Caracalla) and Geta, he took with him, as doubting their agreement in his absence. To Geta his younger son, after his arrival in Britanny, he committed the government of the Province there for civil causes, wherein Aemilius Paulus Papinianus the famous Lawyer, (who as chief minister of justice under him, had his Tribunal seat at a York. Eboracum) was appointed to assist and direct him. Severus himself, and Bassianus with the Army, marched Northward against the b The ancient inhabitants of the hither part of Scotland. Meatae, a people bordering upon the Caledonians, and in league with them. Virius Lupus (but a little before) had assayed to enter the Country by force, when the Meatae (standing upon their own strength) withstood him, and forced him in the end, to purchase his peace with money. Then Severus hastened into Cal●donia, where finding the passages uncertain and dangerous, by reason of the fens, ●oods, and deep waters; he caused trees to be felled, and bridges and cawseiss to be made, for his Soldiers to ma●ch over. The Caledonians in the mean time, sallied out of the woods, and charged the Romans, who were much encumbered for want of firm ground, and were oftentimes forced to trace the Country, and to disperse themselves in several companies, seeking places of advantage: by which means, a great number of them perished, while the barbarous people (lying in ambush, and sometimes leaving their cattle abroad, as a train to draw them within danger) suddenly surprised and killed them, before they could recover their Campe. This was an unfortunate journey to the Romans, who, besides the loss which they sustained by their enemies, were afflicted with diseases, by reason, partly of the unwholesome waters which they drank, and partly of the contagious air that infected their spirits: yea, many times they killed one another; for such as through feebleness could not keep rank in marching, were slain by their own fellows, that they might not be left a prey to their savage enemies. There died in this enterprise, about fifty thousand Romans; Yet would not Severus withdraw his forces thence, till the Caledonians made offer to treat of peace, whereto he then hearkened the more willingly, for that he saw the difficulty, and (in a manner) impossibility to bring that Northern part of the I'll, wholly under subjection, by reason of the rocks, mountains, and marshes: as also for that the Country, being (for the most part) barren and unfruitful, the benefit thereof was not deemed likely to countervail the charge, in getting, and keeping it. The conditions were, That the Caledonians should first disarm themselves, and deliver part of the Country, (lying next the Province,) into the Romans possession, and that from that time forward, they should attempt nothing against the public peace: Which Articles agreed upon, and assurance taken for the performance, Severus retired himself into the Province, leaving his son Bassianus to take charge of the Army, which after the Emperor's departure, grew careless and dissolute: wherewith the General seemed nothing displeased, either for that he was by his own nature inclined to the worst; or else, for that he hoped thereby to win the soldiers favour, as a mean for his advancement to the Empire, after his father's death, which he had oftentimes attempted by indirect practices, most unnaturally to procure. CHAP. IX. The Caledonians invade the Roman Camp, and carrying away the booties which they had taken, are pursued, and put to the sword by the Romans. Severus the Emperor repaireth Adrian's wall, cutteth a Trench, and carrieth it thwart the Island from Sea to Sea. He falleth sick at York. His counsel to his sons. His death. IN the mean while, the Caledonians, (notwithstanding the late contract) understanding what disorders were in the Roman Camp, suddenly invaded it, killing, and taking booties, which they shared with their neighbours (borderers of the Province) that had assisted them in the enterprise. Severus being greatly incensed therewith, sent part of the Army to pursue the Caledonians, expressly commanding, that they should be all put to the sword, without respect of age, or sex. This sharp manner of proceeding, did somewhat quail the hope of the Northern Britan's, who fled into the remote parts of Caledonia: and Severus having rather stayed, then ended the troubles, (as intending to prosecute the war with more advantage) spent some time in repairing and enlarging Adrian's Wall, which he carried th'wart the Island, from Sea, to Sea, entrenching and fortifying it with bulwarks and square towers, in places most convenient (to give warning one to another upon any sudden assault) for defence of the borders. Then being wearied with age, sickness, and travail, having his mind also much grieved with the disloyal and unnatural practices of his son Bassianus, he withdrew himself to a York. Eboracum, a Colony of the Romans, being then the Station of the sixth Legion, called Victrix, and afterwards growing to be one of the chief places of account among the brigants. For these Stations of the Roman Legions, were commonly the seed-plots of towns and cities, both in this I'll, and diverse other parts of the Empire. It was reported, that in his passage thither, a Moor, with a Cypress garland on his head, did meet and salute him by the name of a God: and that, at his entrance into the City, he was by error of the Soothsayer, (that guided him) brought into the temple of Bellona: and that black beasts, being appointed for sacrifice, did of themselves follow him to his Palace. These things, howsoever they fell out accidentally: yet they were interpreted as ominous, in respect of the event. And now Severus perceiving his death to approach, called before him some of his Counsellors and chief Captains, unto whom he is said to have spoken in this manner: It is now about eighteen years, since I was first declared Emperor by the Army in Pannonia; during which time, with what care, pain, and travail, I have wielded this vast body of the Empire, my continual employment in wars, both at home and abroad, may witness sufficiently. For, at my first entrance, I found the State encumbered every where, and now I shall leave it peaceable, even to the Britan's. The future prosperity whereof, must depend upon the mutual agreement of my two sons. For neither multitude of men, nor abundance of treasure, are so available to defend and maintain Commonweals, as Amity and Unity between Governors. For, by Concord, (we see,) that small things grow to greatness, whereas by Discord the greatest fall to ruin. I must now leave to them (as my successors,) the Imperial Diadem, that which Bassianus hath so long thirsted after, though he know not yet, whether it be a thing to be wished, or feared, as having not proved the difference betwixt a Prince, and a private person. But ambitious minds are carried blindfold, they wot not whither, in desiring that, which having once obtained, they can neither keep, without great care, nor leave, without extreme peril; such a thing is Sovereignty, whose greatness is not contained in itself, but consisteth, for the most part, in the opinion, and dependeth upon the dispositions of other men. It is Virtue only, not glorious titles, which makes men truly great. Myself at this present may serve for an example, to show, upon what a weak foundation, human greatness is built. For, I have been all things, though now it avail me nothing: seeing I must pay my debt to Nature, and after all my exploits in the East & West parts of the world, (I) must die (as I may say) out of the world, in a strange Country, if any Country may be termed strange to the Romans, who have now by conquest, made all Countries their own. I exhort you therefore, as you tender the welfare of the Roman Empire, of your own selves, and your posterity, be true and faithful to my sons, as you have been to me, assisting them with your counsel, and persuading them to mutual concord, as the main pillar to support, both their estates, and your own. When he had uttered these, or the like speeches, he turned aside, and shortly after yielded up the Ghost. CHAP. X. Bassianus practiseth with the army to make him sole Emperor, by excluding Geta his younger brother. The cruelty of Bassianus. The Funerals of Severus the Emperor. The state of Britanny from Bassianus to Gallienus, not mentioned in Histories. Some of the Thirty Tyrants usurp the government in Britanny in the time of Gallienus. Bonosus a Britan doth the like in the reign of Aurelianus. Victorinus a favourite of Probus the Emperor, murdereth the Governor of the Province. Vandals, and Burgundiaus, seat themselves in Britanny. The Britan's licensed to plant Vines. Carus succeeding Probus in the Empire, assigneth Britanny to Carinus one of his sons, who possesseth it, till Dioclesian is declared Emperor. C. Carausius Admiral of the British fleet, is sent to sea to guard the Coasts of Gallia, and Britanny, against Pirates. BAssianus being advertised of his father's death, practised with the Soldiers, by bribes, and fair promises, that he might be declared sole Emperor: whereto when he could not persuade them, for the reverence they bore to his father Severus, he made a league with the Northern Britan's that then assailed the borders, and returned to Eboracum, to meet with julia the Empress his mother in law, and Geta his brother. There he caused the Physicians to be put to death, for not ridding his father sooner out of the way, as he had commanded them. Then he appointed secretly to the slaughter, all those, that for their virtue and wisdom had been esteemed, and advanced by his father, and all such, as having been Tutors to him and his brother, advised them to mutual concord. This done, he entered into consultation about his father's funerals, which were solemnized by the army with all due rites, according to the ancient custom in times of war. The ashes of the dead body being put into a Golden Vrna, were afterwards by julia the Empress (accompanied with the two Caesars) carried to Rome, where Severus, after the usual ceremonies, was consecrated a god. Now the affairs of Britanny, for the space of about fifty years together, were passed over in silence, as being either omitted, through the negligence of Writers in that age, or perishing, through the calamity of the times that ensued under the Emperors following, namely, Popilius Macrinus, (the successor of Bassianus) Varus Heliogabalus, Alexander Severus, Maximinus, Gordianus the first, second, and third, Philippus Arabs, Decius, Valerianus. But when Gallienus (who succeeded Vacerian) had obtained the Empire, the Roman state was much encumbered, and oppressed with her own forces, while certain Captains (commonly called, The Thirty Tyrants) disdained the government of so cruel, and dissolute a Prince as Gallienus, and being chosen Emperors by the armies which they commanded, usurped absolute authority in divers Provinces. Among these, Collianus, Victorinus, Posthumus, Tetricus, and Marius, (as Histories report) ruled in Britanny. The Roman Empire, Flavius Claudius, Valerius Aurelianus, Tacitus, & Valerius Probus, held successively after Gallienus. In the time of the forenamed Aurclianus the Emperor, it is not to be forgotten, that Bonosus a Britain by birth, and famous for excess in drinking, invaded the Empire with Proculus, usurping Britanny, Spain, and a That part of France which at this day containeth the Provinces of Narbonne, Provence, and Dauphine. Gallia Braccata. But being afterwards vanquished by Probus the Emperor, he hanged himself; whereof there went a common jest among the Soldiers, that [a drinking vessel, not a man was hanged up] Then the Governor of the Province in Britanny being preferred to the office, by means of Victorinus a Moor (a man in great favour with Probus the Emperor) began to raise sedition among the Soldiers there; with which practice Probus secretly acquainted Victorinus, who supposing himself touched with the imputation of his crime, whom he had recommended and advanced to the government there, desired leave of the Emperor to go into Britanny, where (giving it out, that he fled thither for safeguard of his life) he was courteously entertained by the Governor, whom he afterwards murdered privily in the night, & then speedily returned to Rome: having, by this devise, appeased the tumults in the Province, & approved his fidelity to the Emperor. About this time (as it is reported) certain Vandals and Burgundians (which had invaded Gallia) being vanquished by Probus, were sent into Britanny, where they seated themselves, and did afterwards good service to the Romans, in suppressing rebellious attempts there: though the Emperor than sought to win the Britan's favour, rather by clemency, than rigour: licensing them to plant Vines, and make wine, and to do other things, as well for their pleasure as profit. Then Carus succeeding Probus in the Empire, assigned Britanny, Gallia, Spain, and Illyricum, to Carinus, one of his sons, who possessed the same, till Dioclesian was declared Emperor: in whose time the Province was peaceably governed, the borders being strongly guarded with forts, and bulwarks against foreign invasion; but the sea coasts, both of Gallia and Britanny, were much annoyed with Pirates of lower Germany, against whom, C. Carausius, as Admiral of the British fleet, was sent to sea. CHAP. XI. Carausius usurpeth the Empire in Britanny, in the joint reigns of Dioclesian and Maximianus, who assume to them Maximinus, and Constantius Chlorus for assistants by the name of Caesar's. Carausius is slain by Alectus, and Alectus by Asclepiodatus. London taken, and sacked by the Franks (the ancestors of the French) whom the Romans encountering, deprived of their booties. CArausius was a man, by birth of low degree, though otherwise worthy of the highest, if his own ambition, & the guiltiness of his actions, had not pricked him forward, to seek it by unlawful courses, and to bolster out wrong by that authority, which is the ordinary mean appointed to punish it; for in short time he grew very rich, by taking great store of shipping and treasure, which he detained to his own use, without restoring the same to the right owners, or rendering account thereof to the Emperor's officers. Whereupon Maximianus Herculeus (whom Dioclesian had taken to be his Associate in the Empire) being then making war in Gallia, surprised the principal men of Carausius his faction at a Bolein in Picardy. Gessoriacum, and gave commandment, that Carausius himself should be made away. But Carausius being privily advertised thereof, and knowing, that then there remained for him no mean fortune betwixt the life of a Prince, and the death of a Traitor, entered forthwith into actual rebellion, making his party strong both by sea and land, in drawing discontented persons into the action, and alluring the Northern Britan's to join with him, upon hope of spoils to be gotten in the province, which he then ruled with a kind of absolute authority, and soon after usurped there the Imperial ornaments. The Roman state being shaken in divers places, either by the negligent government, or ambitious attempts of Captains, and Commanders of armies, (which gave occasion to whole Nations and Provinces to revolt:) The two Emperors declared Galerius Maximinus and Constantius Chlorus, as their assistants by the name of Caesar's. Then was Maximinus sent into Persia, and Constantius into Britanny against Carausius, But before Constantius arrived there, Carausius was slain by the practice of C. Alectus his familiar friend, who then usurped the Empire, as Carausius had done before. And understanding that Constantius was coming over with a great power, he resolved to meet him upon the Sea, and impeach his landing; for which purpose he lay with his Navy upon the Coast of the Isle a I'll of Wight. Vectis; but his hopes failing him, by reason the Romans in a thick mist did recover the land, before he could discover them, he prepared his forces to encounter them in a set battle near the shore. Constantius (having determined to try the utmost of his fortune) to take away from his Soldiers all hope of return, did first set his ships on fire, and afterwards gave the charge upon Alectus, whose Army was (for the most part) composed of Mercenary men, consisting of Britan's, Franks, Germans, and divers other Nations, who fought not all with like courage: for after the first encounter, some of them turned their backs, forsaking their Commander, whoescaped the fury of the battle by flight, though he was shortly after taken, and slain by Asclepiodatus the b Captain of the Emperor's guard. Praefectus Praetori●. The c The ancient Inhabitants of Franconiae in Germany, that afterwards seated themselves in France. Francs that served under Alectus, fled to the City of London, which (being weakly guarded) they rifled and sacked, though they did not long time enjoy the spoil; for part of the Roman Army coming thither (rather by error in mistaking their way, then of set purpose) assailed them, took away their booties, and put the most part of them to the sword. This victory restored again to the Roman Empire, the Province of Britanny, which had been usurped about seven years by Carausius, and three years by Alectus. CHAP. XII. The persecution of Christians in Britanny under Dioclesian the Emperor. The death of Saint Alban the first British Martyr. NOw began the storm of persecution for Christian Religion to arise under Dioclesian, who commanded, that throughout the Dominions of the Empire, the people should offer sacrifice only to the gods of the Emperors, and that such as refused so to do, should be punished with divers kinds of cruel death. Hereupon the Christians, (being then dispersed in divers parts of the world,) not fearing any torments that tyranny could devise, made public profession of their faith, which they constantly maintained, and willingly sealed with their blood. Amongst many others that died in Britanny for that cause, Alban, an Inhabitant of the famous free City a An ancient City sometime near Saint Alban. Verulamium, is specially remembered as the first British Martyr, who being yet but a Pagan, received into his house a Christian, one of the Clergy named Amphibalus, that fled from his persecutors: and observing his devotion in watching, fasting, and praying, became in the end a follower of his faith and virtue. And to the end that his guest might escape the hands of them that pursued him, he put on his garments, offering himself to the Soldiers that were sent to search his house, and in that habit was presented to the judge, before whom he made confession of his faith, reproving the profane rites of heathenish superstition. Whereupon he was committed to the Tormentors to be whipped, and persisting in his constancy, was afterwards beheaded on the top of an high hill near the City. It is reported, that the Tormentor (who was first appointed to behead him) perceiving a miracle wrought by him, as he went to the place of execution, refused to do his office, casting the sword out of his hand, and prostrating himself at Saint Alban feet, desired earnestly that he might either die for him, or with him, rather than live to be the minister of his death; whereupon as a professor of that faith, whereof he had been long time a persecutor, he drank of the same cup with Saint Alban, and in steed of the sacramental sign of Baptism, was washed in the bath of his own blood. It is also written of Saint Alban his executioner, that his eyes fell out of his head at the very instant, that the Martyr's head (being severed from the body) fell to the ground; But whether it were the pleasure of God in the first planting of his truth here, to approve the same by miracles; or whether the incredulity of that Age, might give Writers occasion to report more than the truth, I will not take upon me to censure. There suffered also in a Leyceste●. Legecestria about the same time, and for the same cause, Aaron and julius: and in sundry other places of this I'll many other, as well women as men, who gave testimony of their patience, in praying for their persecutors, and also of their piety by doing things miraculous, which moved the Pagan Princes at the last to cease their tyranny, as being rather wearied with afflicting the Christians, than the Christians themselves with enduring the affliction; Such power hath man being assisted with divine grace, to do, and suffer, even above, and against Nature itself. The manner of Saint Alban death being engraven upon a Marble stone, was set up within the City for a terror to the Christians, who afterwards erected a Temple in that place, which was accounted venerable for many ages after the destruction of Verulamium: out of whose ruins, an other Town was raised, continuing the name and memory of Saint Alban the Martyr even to this day. Not many years after, Amphibalus also (who converted S. Alban) being apprehended by the Roman Soldiers, for preaching the Christian faith unto the Britan's, was put to death, near the place where Saint Alban his disciple had suffered Martyrdom before him. CHAP. XIII. A brief Relation of the state of the British Church, from the reign of Dioclesian, unto the coming of Austen the Monk, who converted the Saxons and English to the christian Faith. THe storm of persecution afterward ceasing, when Dioclesian yielded up the government, gave free passage to the profession of christian religion, both in Britanny, and other parts of the Western Empire, till such time as Arrius, a Priest of Alexandria, (whose heart inwardly boiling with discontentment, for not obtaining the Bishopric of that place, which he ambitiously affected,) burst out at the last into open blasphemy and impiety, against the divinity and omnipotency of the Son of God; which heresy (like a contagious disease, infecting most parts of the world) invaded also this our Island, the inhabitants whereof in those days, (as men delighting in novelties) were carried hither and thither with every blast of vain doctrine, retaining nothing in matters of religion for certain, but their own uncertain opinions: But the Arrian heresy being afterwards condemned by the general Counsel of Nice, in the reign of Constantine the Great, the number of the professors and favourers thereof, as well in Britanny as other places, daily diminished, and the truth of Christianity was generally embraced by the Britan's, whose Bishops conformed themselves to the doctrine and ceremonies of the Church of Rome, without difference in any thing specially remembered, save only in celebration of the feast of Easter, after the ancient manner of the jews: imitating therein, the custom of the Greek Churches in Asia, who solemnized that feast upon the fourteenth day of the Moon of March, on what day of the week soever it fell: whereas the West Churches did celebrate it upon the first Sunday after the full Moon of the same month, in regard that Sunday was properly accounted and called, The Lord's day, as being dedicated in the Apostles time, to the eternal memory of Christ's resurrection. And this custom of celebrating the feast of Easter, after the manner of the jews, and of the East Churches, continued in use among the Britan's, even till the coming of Austen the Monk, albeit it had been condemned by diverse public Decrees and general Counsels. Neither is it to be forgotten, that in this third Age after Christ, there were among the Britan's, diverse men of special note for piety and learning, as namely, in the time of Constantine the Great, and Pope Sylvester Restitutus, a Bishop of London was present, and subscribed to the Synod, held at Arles in France, about the year of our redemption 325. Likewise, by the testimony of Athanasius, certain British Bishops appeared at the Counsel of Sardica, which was summoned in the behalf of that holy Father, against the Arrian heretics, about the year 350. and also at the Counsel of Ariminum, where Saint Hilary greatly commendeth the Bishops of Britanny, for their zeal and constancy in maintaining the truth against arianism, which was then dispersed in most parts of Christendom. And it is not to be doubted, but that there were many others also worthy of remembrance, if Time had not worn out the knowledge of their names and doings. But that which most disturbed the peace of the Church in Britanny, was the heresy of Pelagius the British Monk, who in the age next ensuing, maintained the power and free will of man, against the virtue of divine grace, with other devilish positions, which being plausible to flesh and blood, were easily admitted, but proved in the end, very pernicious. These occurrents in the estate Ecclesiastical, (howsoever severed by distance of time) I have thought good to set down together, rather than to mix them with the relations of matters civil: and yet not omitting (as occasion shall require) to touch them again in their proper places. CHAP. XIIII. Constantius Chlorus stayeth the persecution in Britanny. He dieth at York. Helena his wife, (the mother of Constantine the Great) travaileth to jerusalem to seek out the Cross whereon our Saviour suffered. Her piety and zeal towards the advancement of Christian Religion. The virtues of Constantius Caesar her husband. DIoclesian and Maximianus, having resigned their authority, Constantius Chlorus stayed the persecution in Britanny, & afterwards went thither himself, renforcing the garrisons, both within the Province, and upon the borders, and establishing a general peace throughout the Island; which done, he repaired to Eboracum, and there fell sick of a languishing disease. In the mean time, Constantinus his son, (being left at Rome as his father's pledge) escaped from his keepers, and houghing the post horses, (as he passed the Countries) that he might not be overtaken by pursuit, came at length into Britanny, where he was received with great joy by Constantius his father, who being then past hope of life, signified in the presence of his Counsellors and Captains; That he willingly and gladly embraced his death, since he should leave a memorable monument of himself in the life of his son, who (he hoped) should succeed him in the government, to protect the innocent from oppression, and to wipe away the tears from the Christians eyes: for therein, above all other things, he accounted himself most happy. Thus died Constantius Caesar, a wise and virtuous Prince, as being not subject to those vices which commonly accompany the highest fortunes. He was first called from the degree of a Senator, to be a Caesar, not affecting the title for ambition, nor refusing it in respect of the danger. Helena his wife, the mother of Constantine the Great, was (as some have written) the daughter of Coil a British King, though by others it be otherwise reported. But of what Country or kindred soever she was, it appeareth by consent of all Writers, that she was a wise and virtuous Lady, worthy to be the Wife of such a Husband, and the Mother of such a Son. She was an earnest professor of Christianity, and upon religious zeal, travailed to jerusalem, where she found out the Manger wherein Christ was laid at the time of his birth, and the Cross whereon he was nailed when he suffered. By this Cross many diseases were cured, and strange miracles wrought, (if credit may be given to such as have written thereof.) Her constant desire to advance the Christian faith, first moved Constantius her husband to favour the Christians, who having in times of danger hidden themselves (for the most part) in deserts and dens, did then come abroad again into the view of the world, re-edified their old Churches, founded new, instituted holy days to be celebrated in honour of their Martyrs, and exercised religion freely and peaceably, as being licenced so to do by public Edicts. In all virtues beseeming a Prince, there were few of his degree, either before his time, or since, that might worthily be compared with Constantius, who in the administration of justice in civil causes, carried so even a hand, as he never used to make difference of persons, or to be misled by affection. He was no wasteful spender of his subjects treasure: no greedy hoarder up of his own, for he esteemed money only, as a thing to be used, not kept: and he would oft times say, [That it was more behoveful for the Commonweal, that the wealth of the land should be dispersed in subjects hands, then barred up in Prince's coffers.] For glorious apparel and other outward ornaments, (wherewith Princes use to dazzle the eyes of the common people,) he was more meanly furnished, then beseemed the greatness of his estate. His diet was neither curious, nor costly: and when he feasted his friends, he borrowed his silver vessel, supposing it a thing unnecessary, to have any of his own; and considering perhaps, that the metal whereof they were made, might be converted to a better use. In times of war, he was diligent and industrious: yet not using force, where policy might prevail; for he so much esteemed the life of a man, as he would never hazard it in desperate attempts for his own glory: which won him great reputation among his Soldiers, who for the love they bore him, did presently after his death, elect Constantine his son to succeed him; (other Nations supposing this our Island most happy, in first seeing him saluted Emperor.) CHAP. XV. Constantine the Great is declared Emperor at York. He subdueth Maxentius and Licinius, the one usurping the West Empire, and the other the East. He establisheth a new form of government in Britanny, appointing Pacatianus to rule the Province there, as Deputy to the Praefectus Praetorio of Gallia. He translateth the seat of the Empire from Rome to Byzantium. His three sons, Constantinus, Constans, and Constantius, reign successively after his death. Gratianus Funarius hath the charge of the Army in Britanny, when Constans the Emperor is stain by Magnentius. Martinus Deputy in Britanny under Constantius. Paulus Catena a Commissioner, to inquire of Magnentius confederates. THen Constantine residing at York, although he seemed at the first unwilling to accept the Imperial Title, and protested openly against it: yet when the Senate had confirmed the election, he took upon him the government of those Provinces, which his father had held in the West parts, and with an Army of Britan's and other Nations, he first settled France and Germany, being then in Arms against him, and afterwards subdued Maxentius, Maximians son that usurped the Empire in Italy. Then, with like success, he made war upon Licinius his Associate, who persecuted the professors of Christianity in the East parts of the world. By which means, Constantine alone enjoyed the Empire, and for his many and glorious conquests, was worthily surnamed the Great. In his time the form of government in Britanny, both for Civil and Martial causes, was altered, and new laws established. The civil government of the Province there, he committed to Pacatianus, who ordered the same as Deputy to the Praefectus Praetorio of Gallia, (an Officer instituted by him) with a limitation of place and restriction of that power, which the ancient Praefectus Praetorio had under the first Emperors. Then Constantine intending to make war in Persia, either to defend, or enlarge the limits of the East Empire, removed the Imperial seat from Rome, to the City Byzantium, (which he re-edified, and caused the same to be called of his own name Constantinopolis:) drawing thither the Legions in Germany, that guarded the frontiers of the Western Empire, which was thereby laid open to the incursions of those barbarous people, that afterwards assailed it, and in the end, possessed the greatest part thereof. The borders also of the Province in Britanny were weakened, by removing the Garrisons there into other Cities and Towns, which being pestered with Soldiers, (for the most part unruly guests) were abandoned by the ancient inhabitants. After the death of Constantine the Great, Constantinus his eldest son, enjoyed Britanny as a portion of his dominion, till making some attempts upon his brother Constans, for the enlarging of it, he was by him slain. Then was the Empire divided between Constans and Constantius, the two younger brethren. Constans seized upon the Provinces which Constantinus his brother had held, and made a voyage into Britanny, where Gratianus an Hungarian by birth, had then charge of the Army. This Gratianus was surnamed Funarius, for that, being a young man, he was able (as it is written of him) to hold a rope in his hand against the force of five Soldiers, assaying to pull it from him. But Constans afterwads following ill counsel, (the ready way to Prince's ruins) and giving himself over to all kinds of vice, was slain by Magnentius Taporus, (the son of a Britain) who then invaded the Empire, usurping the government of Gallia and Britanny, till (after three years' war with Constantius, the successor of Constans his brother) finding himself unable any longer to uphold his greatness, he murdered himself. Then was Martinus (an aged man) made Deputy of Britanny, when Paulus a Spaniard, surnamed Catêna, (a name well sorting with nature) was sent thither as a commissioner, to inquire of such as had conspired with Magnentius; But under colour of his authority, he called in question such as were not faulty, either upon false information, or private displeasure, & sometimes, to make a gain of those that were accused: which course Martinus the Deputy disliking, entreated him, That such as had been no actors in rebellion, might be no partners in punishment with offenders. Whereupon Paulus, charging the Deputy himself as a favourer of Traitors, and privy to the conspiracy, did so far forth incense Martinus, that (being either impatient of reproaches, or perhaps not altogether guiltless) he struck at Paulus with his sword, intending to have killed him, but failing in the execution, he presently thrust the sword into his own body. Gratianus Funarius, though he were not specially bound by oath to the Emperor, as some others had been: yet, for that he had received Magnentius into his house, was adjudged to forfeit all his goods: the rest of the accused persons being fettered, and presented to the Emperor, were condemned, some to death, and some to exile. CHAP. XVI. The government of Gallia, and Britanny is assigned to julianus. Lupicinus, and Alipius, are at several times sent into Britanny: jovinian succeed julianus in the Empire, which Valentinian the first, jointly with Valens his brother, doth govern after the death of jovinian. The Picts, and Scottishmen invade the Province. The original and manners of both Nations. Mutinies in the Roman army, appeased by Theodosius. NOw was the government of Gallia and Britanny, assigned to julianus (afterwards called the Apostata) whom Constantius had made a Caesar. Then Lupicinus Master of the Armour to the Emperor, (a good soldier, but notorious for his pride, covetousness, and cruelty) and after him Alipius, were sent into Britanny, to repress the barbarous people that had invaded the Province there, while julianus himself remained in Gallia, not daring to pass into the I'll, both for that he feared the Gauls, who were ready (upon the least occasion) to revolt, and also doubted the Almains, who were then up in Arms: But with what success Lupicinus, and Alipius prosecuted the war in Britanny, I find no certain report. After the death of Constantius, julianus possessing the Empire (which he had usurped in the life time of Constantius) banished Palladius an honourable person into Britanny, and sent Alipius to repair the walls of jerusalem, in which attempt, God discovering his wrath, by terrifying the builders with thunder and lightning, and killing many thousand jews, gave an apparent testimony, how vain a thing it is for the power of man to oppose itself against his Imperial decree. jovinian succeeded julianus in the Empire, which he held but few months. About this time the Picts, Saxons, Scottishmen, and Attacots invaded the Roman Province in Britanny (Valentinianus the first of that name then governing the Empire, together with Valens his brother.) These Picts and Scottishmen (as some writer's report) came first out of Scythia, though it be not improbable that the Picts were any other, than such Britan's, as being either borne in the Northern Promontory of the I'll, or flying thither out of the South parts, entered into confederacy with the Scottish men, and retained for a time their ancient name of Picts, as being so called by the Romans (in respect of the old custom of painting their bodies) to distinguish them from the Britan's then dwelling within the Province. Neither is there any mention made in Histories of their name, before the time of Dioclesian, and Maximian. These Picts, increasing in number, did afterwards inhabit the Isles of the Orcadeses, and being, for the most part, rude, and savage (as the Scottishmen also then were) did oft-times harrow the borders, and grievously annoy their civil Countrymen (there being commonly no greater hatred, then that which is bred and nourished among the people of one Nation,) when they are severed each from other by difference of manners and customs. The name of Picts in process of time (being changed into that of the Scottishmen, as of the more populous nation) was in a manner clean forgotten, when by society and alliance they became both one people. That the Scottishmen had their original from the Scytheses, their very name may seem, in some sort, to discover; howbeit, divers stories affirm, that they travailed first into Cantabria in Spain, where (perhaps disliking that barren soil) they continued not long, but sailed into Ireland, and from thence a great number of them came over into Britanny, landing in the North part of the I'll, where afterward they seated themselves. They were people of great courage, and boldness: of stature, tall: strong of body: their complexions somewhat ruddy and high coloured: their apparel was either very slender, or none at all, save only to cover their shame. They were, for the most part, addicted to war, using peace only but as a means to repair their losses. Neither was their peace altogether idle: for even then they accustomed their bodies to labours, no less painful than war itself, and oft-times no less dangerous. To ride with swift pace up a steep hill, to swim over lakes, and standing meres; to pass over bogs, and fenny grounds, were things in ordinary use with them, as being accounted exercises of recreation only. But above all others, the nobility & better sort were delighted with hunting & that in such measure, as they could more patiently endure the want of meat, drink, and sleep, than restraint from that pastime, which they esteemed manly and generous. In their consultations they were very secret; and sudden in the execution of whatsoever they had projected, by which means they oftentimes, struck terror and amazement into the hearts of their enemies, & much annoyed the Roman Province in Britanny. They were better contented with the necessities of nature, & more able to endure all extremities of fortune than the Britan's in those times, as being less acquainted with the vain superfluities & delicacy of the Romans: In behaviour the Britan's were noted to be more civil, but the Scottishmen (as a people unconquered, & admitting no customs but their own) refused to imitate them, who were brought under the subjection of strangers, or to be reputed like to any other then to themselves. Wrongs and indignities offered as well to others as themselves, they sharply revenged: the slaughter, wounding, or disgrace of any of their kindred, allies, or companions, being commonly the occasion of rooting out the whole family of him that first gave the offence. Violent pursuits: seizing by strong hand the goods and possessions of their neighbours: burning of houses, and killing (upon cold blood) such as they had taken in war (which others termed cruelty) they accounted manhood, and policy: supposing the assurance of their estate to consist, rather in diminishing the number of their enemies, by open acts of hostility, then by pretended reconciliations, and leagues of amity, which are either kept or broken at the will of him that hath the greater power. Their name is first mentioned in Histories about the reign of Constantine the great: though the Scottish writers affirm, that they were governed by Kings of their own Nation, many hundred years before his time. But of things so ancient to have the certain knowledge, it is no easy matter: neither is Antiquity in itself very much to be regarded, where true Nobility and virtue is wanting. For all Nations at the first were of barbarous, & uncivil behaviour, till Time taught them other customs, and emulation kindled the hearts of the better sort to seek fame by their own valour, rather than the Genealogies of their Ancestors. These Scottishmen and Picts, being now assisted with foreign power, presumed more boldly to assail the Britan's, both by sea and land, killing Nectaridius the Admiral of the British fleet, and surprising Bulchobaudes one of their chief Captains, (the mutiny at that time in the Roman Camp giving them opportunity, and boldness to do, in a manner, what they listed.) For the legionary Soldiers refused to obey their Leaders, and even the Deputies themselves, complaining of the partiality of their Generals, who punished the least offence of the common Soldier, and winked at the great abuses of Commanders and Officers. Hereupon a warlike troup of Almans was sent over under the conduct of Fraomarius their King, who exercised there the authority of a Tribune, Severus, the Emperor's steward of household, and jovinius were appointed to second him, with certain auxiliary forces out of Gallia. By this means the fury of those warlike Nations was somewhat restrained, till the coming of Theodosius, who first appeased the mutiny among the Soldiers in Britanny, and afterward prosecuted the service there with such good success, as he restored the decayed Towns, strengthened the borders, appointing night-watches to be kept there, and in the end, recovered the Province, which was then contented to admit of Governors, (as in former times) and as a new conquered state, had a new name given it; For in honour of the Emperor Valentinian, the Province was (for a time) called Valentia. Not long after, one Valentinian a Pannonian entered into a new conspiracy there, which being discovered before it was ripe, the peril like to have ensued thereby, was easily avoided. CHAP. XVII. Gratianus the successor of Valentinian the first, electeth Valentinian the second, and Theodosius the younger, to be his associates in the Empire. Clemens Maximus commanding the army in Britanny, usurpeth the sovereignty. Gratianus the Emperor murdered. Saint Ambrose is sent from Valentinian to Maximus, to treat of peace. Theodosius the younger pursueth Maximus, who is taken, and put to death. The Britan's that follow Maximus, seat themselves in Amorica (in France,) which thereupon took the name of Britanny. THen Gratianus (succeeding Valentinian) elected Valentinian the second, his brother, and Theodosius (the son of Theodosius aforenamed) to be his associates in government: But Clemens Maximus then ruling the Army in Britanny, (upon emulation and envy of Theodosius glory) usurped the Empire there: and having transported the strength of the Province into Belgia, (the Germane Army being also revolted to him) he placed his Imperial seat among the a The ancient people of France inhabiting betwixt Belgia and the river Mosella. Treviri, from whence Gratianus intended, by force, to have expulsed him; but that as he marched through Italy with his army (the most part of his soldiers forsaking him) he fled to b Lions in France. Lugdunum in Gallia, where he was entrapped by a treacherous devise; for, a rumour being spread (by direction of Maximus) that the Empress his wife was coming to visit him, he lightly gave credit thereto; and thereupon attended with a few persons, went forth in private manner to meet her; but in the Chariot (where he supposed to have seen his wife) he found Andragathius, one of Maximus Captains, secretly hidden, who forthwith leapt out, and murdered the innocent Emperor, while his attendants, being unarmed, and amazed with the suddenness of the fact, made little or no preparation for defence. Maximus having his mind lifted up with his fortune, created his son Victor a Caesar, and used great cruelty against those that had served under Gratianus. Whereupon Valentinian doubting his own estate, sent Saint Ambrose the Bishop of Milan unto him, as an Ambassador to desire peace, which in the end was granted upon conditions. But Maximus ambitiously affecting the sole government, did soon after break the peace, invading Italy, and attempting to have taken Valentinian himself, who to prevent that danger, fled with his mother unto Theodosius his associate (then ruling the East Empire) imploring his aid against Maximus that usurped Italy, and other parts of his government. Hereupon Theodosius prepared an army to encounter Maximus, who in Pan●onia being overthrown, fled to Aquileia, where by the treason of his own soldiers (while he was paying them their wages) he was delivered to Theodosius, dis-robed of his Imperial ornaments, and speedily put to an ignominious death. This end had Maximus, after he had usurped the Empire five years. The like calamities also befell his friends and followers. For Victor his son was afterwards slain in Gallia by Arbogustes. Andragathius the murderer of Gratian drowned himself, and divers of Maximus his Captains being taken, were put to the sword. Howbeit the Britan's, by whose power Maximus had raised himself to that greatness (as men desiring rather to try new fortunes abroad, then to return home) resolved to stay in Armorica in France, where some of their Countrymen had remained (as divers writers affirm) since the conquest of Gallia by Constantine the Great. By this means, in process of time (partly by force, and partly by policy,) they grew so strong, as they left the possession of a great part of that Country to their posterity, which being rooted therein by many descents, did afterwards enjoy it entirely as their own (the name of Britanny continuing there among them even to this day.) This victory of Theodosius was so much esteemed, as the Senate appointed by Decree, that yearly feasts should be celebrated in remembrance thereof. CHAP. XVIII. Stilico is sent into Britanny by Honorius (the successor of Theodosius (his father) in the Western Empire) to defend the Province against the Picts and Scottishmen. Emperors elected and deposed by the army in Britanny. Chrysanthus the Deputy of the Province is made Bishop of Constantinople. The Romans send over one Legion out of France into Britanny. They grow weary of the government there. The Britan's implore their aid. NOw the Roman Monarchy was drawing on to her fatal period, when Honorius (succeeding Theodosius his father in the Western Empire,) sent Stilico into Britanny, to defend the Britan's against the Picts and Scottishmen, who assailed them in most parts of the I'll, working upon the weakness of the Province, in which (the most choice and able men having been from time to time transported and wasted in the Roman wars with other Nations) there remained not then sufficient to defend itself. The common Soldiers there, seeing the state in combustion, took upon them to elect and depose Emperors, first proclaiming Gratian a free Citizen of Rome; but not long contented with his government, they murdered him, & elected one Constantine (for the name sake only) supposing the same to be auspicious. Constantine transporting the flower and strength of all Britanny into Gallia, made many dishonourable leagues (to the prejudice of the Empire) with the barbarous Nations that then invaded it, and sent his son Constans (whom of a Monk he had made a Caesar) into Spain, where Constans (having put to death some principal men, whom he suspected to favour Honorius) committed the government of the Country to Gerontius his chief Captain, by whom he was afterwards slain at Vienna in Gallia: and Constantine his father, having run through many fortunes, was in the end besieged at Arles, where he was taken, and slain by the Soldiers of Honorius the Emperor, who then recovered Britanny. Chrysanthus, (the son of Martianus a Bishop) a man of consular dignity, was then Deputy of Britanny, where he won so great reputation for his virtue and integrity in the government, both of the Church, (which was then tainted with the graceless heresy of Pelagius the Britan) and also of the weal public of the Province, as he was afterwards (though against his will) preferred to the Bishopric of Constantinople. Now the Romans, about four hundred and seventy years after their first entrance into the I'll, waxed weary of the government of Britanny, and the Britan's, that had been many times assailed by their uncivil neighbours, (consorted with strangers of diverse Nations) perceived themselves unable to make resistance, as in former times; whereupon they sent Ambassadors to Rome, requiring aid, and promising fealty, if the Romans would rescue them from the oppression of their enemies. Then was there a Legion sent over into the Island, to expulse the barbarous people out of the Province: which being with good success effected, the Romans counseled the Britan's, for their better defence, to make a stone wall between a The Firth of Dunbretton in Scotland. Glota and b Edinburgh Firth. Bodatria, (the two Arms of the sea that ran into the Island,) and so departed thence. But this wall was afterwards made only of Turfs, and not of Stone, as they were directed, (the Britan's having not then any skill in such kind of buildings;) by which means it served to little purpose: For the Scottishmen and Picts, understanding that the Romans were gone, passed over the water in boats at both ends of the wall, invaded the borders of the Province, and with main force, bore down all before them. Whereupon Ambassadors were sent again out of Britanny, to declare the miserable state of the Province, which without speedy succour, was likely to be lost. CHAP. XIX. A second supply of forces sent by the Precedent of Gallia, into Britanny. The Romans erect a wall of stone for defence of the Province. The Picts and Scottishmen break it down. The Pelagian heresy is suppressed in Britanny, by the means of Germanus and Lupus, two French Bishops. The Scottishmen are converted to the Christian faith by S. Palladius, the Picts by S. Ninianus, and the Irishmen by S. Patricius. Upon the complaint and earnest solicitation of the Britan's, there was another Legion sent overby Aetius the Precedent of Gallia, under the conduct of Gallio of Ravenna, to aid the distressed Britan's; and the Romans having reduced the Province into her former state, did tell the Britan's, that it was not for their ease, to take any more such long, costly, and painful journeys, considering that the Empire itself was assailed, and in a manner overrun by strangers: and therefore, that from thence forth, they should provide for their own safety, that they should learn to use armour and weapons, and trust to their own valour. Howbeit the Romans (in regard of the good service done by the British Nation in former times) began to build a wall of stone from East to West, in the self same place where Severus the Emperor had cast his Trench, (the labour and charges of the work being borne, partly by the Romans, and partly by the Britan's themselves.) This wall contained about eight foot in breadth, and twelve in height, (some relics thereof remaining to be seen at this day.) Upon the sea coasts towards the South, they raised Bulwarks (one somewhat distant from another) to impeach the enemies landing in those parts; and this done, they took their last farewell, transporting their Legions into Gallia, as men resolved to return hither no more. Assoon as they were gone, the barbarous people (having intelligence thereof) presumed confidently, that without any great resistance, they might now enter the Province. And thereupon accounting as their own, whatsoever was without the wall, they gave an assault to the wall itself, and with grapples, and such like engines, pulled down to the ground a great part thereof, while the Britan's inhabiting the borders, being awaked with the suddenness of the enterprise, gave warning to the rest of their countrymen within the land, to arm themselves with speed, and to make resistance. About this time also, (which was the year of our redemption 430.) the state of the Church in Britanny, was much encumbered with the heresy of Pelagius, who being by birth a Britain, by profession a Monk, and (as some think) trained up in the Monastery of Bangor, travailed first into Italy, then into Sicilia, Egypt, and other East parts of the world, to learn and study, as he professed; whereby he wownd himself into the good opinion of many men of great fame in those days, for learning and piety; as namely of Paulinus, Bishop of Nola, and (by his means) of Saint Augustine, till the heretical assertions which himself and his disciple Celestius, a Scottishman secretly taught, being by Saint Hierom discovered, were afterwards condemned by the Bishop of Rome, Innocentius the first: Whereupon they returned again into Britanny, being obstinately bend to maintain their former heresy: which Agricola, the son of Severianus, a Bishop of that sect, had (not long before) brought thither, whereby the same, in short time, was received and approved among the christians in diverse parts of the I'll: so that betwixt heresy among the Britan's themselves, and paganism professed by their enemies, the light of Christian religion seemed, for a time, to be eclipsed. Howbeit, some of the Britan's (disliking those heretical opinions, which as yet they were unable by knowledge in the Scriptures to confute:) and perceiving withal, what dangerous inconveniences to the State arose oft times, by reason of their disagreement one from another in matters of religion; earnestly required the Bishops of France, to send over some godly, wise, & learned men, that might defend the truth of Christianity, which seemed to be borne down by the subtle allegations of human reason. Hereupon the Bishops there called a Synod, wherein Germanus, the Bishop of Auxerre, and Lupus, Bishop of Troy's in champaign, were appointed to go into Britanny, and to undertake the cause, which they afterwards prosecuted with so good success, as many heretics among the Britan's, were openly convinced, and Christians confirmed in the faith. About the same time, Ninianus Bernitius (of the race of the British Princes) was sent into Pict-land, to convert the inhabitants there to Christianity: Palladius a Graetian, was likewise appointed by Celestine, Bishop of Rome, to preach the Gospel in Scotland, unto such there, as remained yet in infidelity, and to suppress the Pelagian heresy, newly sprung up in that Kingdom, to be the first and chief Bishop of the Church there: for which purpose also Patricius, surnamed Magonius, (borne in Britanny of a Senators house) was by the same Bishop of Rome, sent to the Irish and Scottishmen, that then dwelled in the Isles of the Orcadeses and Hebrides. These three religious Fathers were much honoured in those days for the reverend opinion which most men had of their learning and integrity of life: and they are accounted the Apostles and Patrons of the Scottish, Irish, and Pictish Nations, as being the several instruments of the general conversion of each of them. CHAP. XX. The distressed Britan's fly into Wales, Cornwall, and Britanny in France. The end of the Roman government in the Island. WIthin few years after, the Britan's were again hotly pursued by the Scottishmen and Picts, who swarmed over a great part of the Land, taking from the Britan's for a time, all opportunities of convening and assembling themselves together, as in former dangers they had been accustomed; whereby no small number of the Inhabitants of the Province (despairing of better success) retired themselves, giving way to the present necessity, while each man (as in common calamities oft times it falleth out) laying aside the care of the public, made provision for his own safety: leaving the enemy in the mean time to take and kill such as resisted. Some of the Britan's being driven out of their own houses and possessions, fell to robbing one of another, increasing their outward troubles with inward tumults and civil dissension; by which means, a great number of them had nothing left to sustain them, but what they got by hunting and killing of wild beasts. Others burying their treasure under ground, (whereof great store hath been found in this age) did fly (themselves) either into the Countries of the a South-wales. Silureses and b North-wales. Ordovices, or into the West part of the I'll, (where the c The ancient inhabitants of Cornwall and Devonshire. Danmonians then inhabited) or else to their own Countrymen in Armorica in France: the rest being hemmed in with the sea on the one side, and their enemies on the other, sent to the Emperor for aid, which they could not obtain; for that the Goths and Huns invading Gallia and Italy, the greatest part of the forces of the Empire was drawn thither for defence of those places. By reason whereof, (the state of Britanny now declining with the Empire, and shrinking under the burden of barbarous oppression) the Britan's sent Ambassadors again to Aetius the Precedent in Gallia, desiring him to relieve their necessities, declaring withal, that themselves were the small remnant which survived after the slaughter of so many thousands, whom either the sword, or the sea had consumed; for the barbarous enemy drove them upon the sea, the sea again upon the enemy; between both which, they suffered two kinds of death, as being either killed, or drowned: that it imported the majesty of the Roman Empire to protect them, who had so many hundred years, lived under their obedience, and were now plunged into the depth of intolerable miseries: for besides the calamities of war, both civil and foreign at one instant, they were afflicted with dearth and famine, which forced them sometimes to yield themselves to the merciless enemy. But their complaints availed nothing: for the Romans plainly denied to send them any more succour: whereof the Scottishmen and Picts being certainly advertised, and knowing how small a number of ablemen remained in the Province, to withstand their attempts, assailed first such places of strength as guarded the borders, and afterwards entered the Province itself, where, by continual course of conquests, they found a passage into the heart of the I'll, spoiled the people of their wealth, burnt their Cities, and brought the inhabitants thereof under a miserable servitude. Thus, about five hundred years after the Romans first entrance, and four hundred forty and six after the birth of our Saviour Christ, the I'll of Britanny, (which had been, not only a principal member of the Empire, but also the seat of the Empire itself, and the Seminary of Soldiers, sent out into most parts of the world) was now, in the time of Honorius bereft of the greatest part of her ancient inhabitants, and left as a prey to barbarous Nations. The end of the first Part of the History of Great Britanny. ❧ The Table of the Contents of the Chapters in the First Part of the History of Great Britanny. The first Book. THe Original of the Britan's. C. julius Caesar making war in Gallia, intendeth a voyage into Britanny. C. Volusenus is sent to discover the Sea Coasts of the I'll. The Nature, and Customs of the Britan's. page 1 Caesar saileth towards Britanny. The Britan's impeach his landing. The great courage of Cassius Scoeva, one of Caesar's soldiers. 5 Some of the Britan's submit themselves to Caesar. The Romans Ships are scattered by tempest. The Britan's secretly revolt. 9 Caesar repaireth his Navy. A skirmish by land between the Britan's and Romans. The Britan's retire, and with new forces assail the Romans, but in the end are put to flight. Caesar returneth into France. 12 Caesars second expedition into Britanny. The Britan's fortify themselves in a wood; from whence they are chased by the Romans. Caesar's Navy distressed by tempest. 15 Cassibelin is chosen by the Britan's to be their Leader. The Britan's assail the Romans, but with ill success. Caesar with his Army w●deth over the river of Thames. 17 The Britan's surprise the Roman horsemen. The treachery of Mandubratius the Britain, whom Caesar protecteth. Cassibelin wearied with ill success of the war, submitteth himself to Caesar. Tribute imposed upon the Britan's. Caesar saileth into France. 21 Augustus succeed julius Caesar in the Empire. The state of the Britan's in his time, under Cunobelin their Governor. The first British coin. The birth of our Saviour Christ. Tiberius the Emperor forbeareth to attempt any thing in Britanny. 24 The ridiculus expedition of Caius Caligula the Emperor, intending a voyage into Britanny. His vainglory and cruelty. 26 Claudius succeeding Caius in the Empire, sends Aulus Plautius with an Army out of France into Britanny. The Roman soldiers are unwilling to be transported thither: and entering into mutiny▪ are appeased by Narcissus the Emperor's favourite. Plautius chargeth the Britan's, and taketh Cataratacus their Captain prisoner, for which he afterwards triumpheth. 28 Plautius the Lieutenant, pursueth the service in Britanny. Vespasian (serving under him) was in danger to have been slain or taken by the Britan's, if he had not been rescued by Titus his son. The Britan's, pass over the river of Thames, and assail the Romans that follow them. Togodumnus a British Prince, is slain in the fight. Plautius' being in distress, desisteth for a time from further prosecution of the war. 30 The valour and fortune of Vespasian in the British war. He subdueth the I'll of Wight. The Expedition of Claudius the Emperor into Britanny. He defeateth the Britan's, and planteth a Colony of old soldiers at Maldon in Essex. His son is surnamed Britannicus. At his return to Rome, he is honoured with a Triumph. The Christian faith first received in Britanny, in the reign of Claudius. 32 Ostorius Scapula is sent by Claudius the Emperor, to succeed Plautius in the office of Lieutenancie. The Britan's in diverse parts of the i'll take arms, but are speedily suppressed. The Roman General seeketh by lenity to purchase the good opinion of the Britan's. 35 Ostorius the Roman General, maketh war upon the Silureses and Ordovices, the ancient inhabitants of South-wales, and North-wales. Caractacus their Captain, being overthrown in battle fleth for succour to Cartismandua, the Princess of the brigants, who then inhabited that part of the Isle which now containeth the Counties of York, Lancaster, Durham, Westmoreland, and Cumberland. He is betrayed and delivered to Ostorius. 38 Caractacus the British Prince is sent to Rome, and presented there before Claudius the Emperor. His habit, speech, and behaviour. He is pardoned, and dismissed. 40 What opinion the Romans held of Caractacus. Triumphal honours assigned to Ostorius for taking him. The Britan's assail the Roman Campein the Country of the Silureses. The principality of South-wales. The death of Ostorius the General. 43 Aulus Didius is sent by Claudius the Emperor, to take charge of the army in Britanny. Venutius the husband of Cartismandua, Princess of the brigants, upon private discontentment, taketh arms against the Romans. The death of Claudius the Emperor. 44 The second Book. NEro succeed Claudius in the Empire. The Province in Britanny is governed by Veranius, after whose death, the charge is committed to Suetonius Paulinus. The I'll of Anglesey is subdued. The doctrine and manners of the religious druids. 49 The Britan's oppressed by the cruelty and covetousness of the Roman officers, discover their grievances one to another. Prodigious signs foregoing the subversion of the Roman Colony. The Britan's take arms under the conduct of Voadica. 52 The Britan's take arms under the conduct of Voadica. Her Oration to her Soldiers. The Roman Colony is surprised. Cerealis coming to succour it, hardly escapeth with life. Catus the Procurator, flieth into France. 56 Suetonius returneth with his army out of Anglesey. The Cities of London and Verlam are taken and spoiled by the Britan's. The Romans and Britan's make preparation for a set battle. 60 The Oration of Suetonius the Roman General unto his soldiers. The fight between the Romans and Britan's. The Britan's are overthrown. Voadica poisoneth herself. The death of Poenius Posthumus. 62 Suetonius renforceth the Roman Garrisons. Variance between him, and Classicianus the Procurator. Polycletus is sent by Nero the Emperor to examine their doings. Suetonius is discharged of the army, which he delivereth up to Turpilianus. 64 Trebellius Maximus succeed Turpilianus in the government of the Province. Discord in the Army between Trebellius and Celius. The death of Nero the Emperor, and succession of Galba, Otho, and Vitellius. The valour and fortune of the Fourteenth Legion. 66 Vectius Bolanus is sent by Vitellius the Emperor, to take charge of the Army in Britanny. Vespasian succeed Vitellius in the Empire. The government of the Province assigned to Petilius Cerealis, who soon after leaveth the same to julius Frontinus. 68 julius Agricola assigned by Vespasian the Emperor to be Lieutenant of the Army in Britanny, subdueth the Ordovices, [the ancient inhabitants of North-wales,] and maketh a full conquest of the I'll of Anglesey. The carriage of himself at his first entrance into government. 70 Agricola reformeth abuses in the Province. His courage, industry, and wisdom set forth as commendable qualities in a General. The death of Vespasian the Emperor, whom Titus his son succeed in the Empire. 72 Agricolaes' policy to plant civility among the Britan's. He leadeth his Army without resistance unto Edenbourgh Firth in Scotland. 74 What opinion the Romans had of the conquest of Ireland. Agricola setteth out a Navy to discover by Sea, the utmost limits of the Island, and marcheth himself by land into the Country of the Caledonians, [the ancient inhabitants of the North part of Scotland.] The Roman Camp is assailed, and delivered from danger by the coming in of Agricola. 76 The Northern Britan's with common consent, arm themselves to repulse the Romans. The Oration of Galgacus, the chief of their Leaders. 79 The Romans prepare themselves to fight. The Oration of Agricola the General unto his soldiers. 83 Agricola marshalleth his forces. The battle between the Romans and the Northern Britan's. Part of the British Army is defeated. 86 The other part of the British Army is overthrown. The Romans pursuing the Britan's through the woods, in danger to have been entrapped. The lamentable estate of the Britan's. 88 The Britan's are dispersed, and unable to renew the war. Agricola commandeth the Admiral of his Fleet to sail about Britanny. He planteth Garrisons upon the Northern borders, between the two arms of the Sea. Domitian the Emperor, being advertised of his fortunate success in the British war, is tormented with envy and jealousy. Agricola yieldeth up the Province to Salustius Lucullus. 90 Agricola returneth to Rome, and is admitted to the presence of Domitian the Emperor. He betaketh himself to a retired life. He is poisoned. Salustius Lucullus his successor in the government of the Province, protecteth Arviragus the British Prince. He is put to death by the commandment of Domitian. 93 The third Book. NErva Cocceius succeed Domitian in the Empire, leaving the same soon after to Vlpius Trajanus. Adrianus the successor of Trajan, sendeth julius Severus into Britanny to defend the borders of the Province, against the incursions of the Northern Britan's. The Emperor himself with an Army, entereth the Island, and buildeth there a wall of Turfs, for defence of the Province. Licinius Priscus is Gevernor of Britanny. 103 Lollius Vrbicus is Lieutenant of Britanny under Antoninus Pius, (the successor of Adrian the Emperor.) He erecteth another wall of Turfs, for defence of the Province, and appeaseth the brigants. (the ancient inhabitants of the Counties of York, Lancaster, Durham, Westmoreland, and Cumberland,) beginning to revolt. Seius Saturninus Admiral of the British Fleet, guardeth the Sea Coasts. M: Aurelius Antoninus surnamed Philosophus, succeed Antoninus Pius in the Empire: and Calphurnius Agricola, Lollius Vrbicus (Britannicus) in the Province. 106 E●●therius the Bishop of Rome, sendeth Preachers into Britanny to instruct the inhabitants there in the Christian faith. Lucius, the first Christian Prince in Britanny. The planting and propagation of religion among the Britan's. 107 Lucius sends to Rome for the Laws of the Empire. The counsel of Elutherius Bishop of Rome touching the same. Idolatry suppressed in Lucius his dominions, and Ecclesiastical 〈◊〉 established there. The first Archbishop of London. 111 The Northern Britan's breaking down Adrian's wall upon the borders, enter and annoy the Province. Vlpius Marcellus being sent by Commodus the Emperor, to take charge of the Army in Britanny, beateth them back. The rare virtues of Vlpius Marcellus the Governor. He is dismissed of his office. 113 A Mutiny in the Roman Army. Perennius undertaketh to appea●e it. He is accused, and put to death. Helvius Pertinax being sent by Commodus to pacify the tumults in the Army, is in danger to be slain. He maketh suit to be discharged of the Lieutenancie. 115 Clodius Albinus succeed Pertinax in the government of the Province. He is honoured with the title of Caesar. Being suspected of Commodus the Emperor, he retireth himself from affairs. Helvius Pertinax, and Didius julianus are elected Emperors successively after the death of Commodus. Severus succeed julianus in the Empire. Heraclianus is Governor of the Province, which he afterwards resigneth to Virius Lupus. War between Severus the Emperor, and Clodius Albinus. The death of Albinus. 117 Severus the Emperor, maketh preparation for a voyage into Britanny. The civil government of the Province committed to Geta his younger son, whom Papinianus the famous Lawyer assisteth in the administration of justice there. Severus with Bassianus his elder son, marcheth towards Caledonia. Mortality in the Roman Campe. The Caledonians obtain peace upon conditions. Bassianus taketh the charge of the Arm, and Severus his father returns into the Province. 119 The Caledonians invade the Roman Camp, and carrying away the booties which they had taken, are pursued, and put to the sword by the Romans. Severus the Emperor repaireth Adrian's wall, cutteth a Trench, and carrieth it thwart the Island from Sea to Sea. He falleth sick at York. His counsel to his sons. His death. 122 Bassianus practiseth with an Army to make him sole Emperor, by excluding Geta his younger brother. The cruelty of Bassianus. The Funerals of Severus the Emperor. The state of Britanny from Bassianus to Gallienus, not mentioned in Histories. Some of the Thirty Tyrants usurp the government in Britanny in the time of Gallienus. Bonosus a Britain, doth the like in the reign of Aurelianus. Victorinus a favourite of Probus the Emperor, murdereth the Governor of the Province. Vandals and Burgundians, seat themselves in Britanny. The Britan's licenced to plant Vines. Carus succeeding Probus in the Empire, assigneth Britanny to Carinus one of his sons, who possesseth it, till Dioclesian is declared Emperor. C. Carausius Admiral of the British fleet, is sent to sea to guard the coasts of Gallia and Britanny, against the Pirates. 125 Carausius usurpeth the Empire in Britanny, in the joint reigns of Dioclesian and Maximianus, who assume to them Maximinus, and Constantius Chlorus for assistants by the name of Caesar's. Carausius is slain by Alectus, and Alectus by Asclepiodatus. London taken, and sacked by the Franks (the ancestors of the French) whom the Romans encountering, deprived of their booties. 128 The persecution of Christians in Britanny under Dioclesian the Emperor. The death of Saint Alban the first British Martyr. 130 A brief Relation of the state of the British Church, from the reign of Dioclesian, unto the coming of Austen the Monk, who converted the Saxons and English to the Christian faith. 132 Constantius Chlorus stayeth the persecution in Britanny. He dieth at York. Helena his wife, (the mother of Constantine the Great) travaileth to jerusalem, to seek out the Cross whereon our Saviour suffered. Her piety and zeal towards the advancement of Christian Religion. The virtues of Constantius Caesar her husband. 135 Constantine the Great is declared Emperor at York. He subdueth Maxentius and Licinius, the one usurping the West Empire, and the other the East. He establisheth a new form of government in Britanny, appointing Pacatianus to rule the Province there, as Deputy to the Praefectus Praetorio of Gallia. He translateth the seat of the Empire from Rome to Byzantium. His three sons, Constantinus, Constans, and Constantius, reign successively after his death. Gratianus Funarius hath the charge of the Army in Britanny, when Constans the Emperor is slain by Magnentius. Martinus Deputy in Britanny under Constantius. Paulus Catena a Commissioner, to inquire of Magnentius confederates. 138 The government of Gallia and Britanny is assigned to julianus. Lupicinus and Alipius, are at several times sent into Britanny: jovinian succeed julianus in the Empire, which Valentinian the first, jointly with Valens his brother, doth govern after the death of jovinian. The Picts and Scottishmen invade the Province. The original and manners of both Nations. Mutinies in the Roman Army, appeased by Theodosius. 141 Gratianus the successor of Valentinian the first, electeth Valentinian the second, and Theodosius the younger to be his associates in the Empire. Clemens Maximus commanding the Army in Britanny, usurpeth the sovereignty. Gratianus the Emperor murdered. Saint Ambrose is sent from Valentinian to Maximus, to treat of peace. Theodosius the younger pursueth Maximus, who is taken, and put to death. The Britan's that follow Maximus, seat themselves in Amorica (in France,) which thereupon took the name of Britanny. 146 Stilico is sent into Britanny by Honorius, (the successor of Theodosius (his father) in the Western Empire) to defend the Province against the Picts and Scottishmen. emperors elected and deposed by the Army in Britanny. Chrysanthus the Deputy of the Province, is made Bishop of Constantinople. The Romans send over one Legion out of France into Britanny. They grow weary of the government there. The Britan's implore their aid. 148 A second supply of forces sent by the Precedent of Gallia, into Britanny. The Romans erect a wall of stone for defence of the Province. The Picts and Scottishmen break it down. The Pelagian heresy is suppressed in Britanny, by the means of Germanus and Lupus, two French Bishops. The Scottishmen are converted to the Christian faith by S. Palladius, the Picts by S. Ninianus, and the Irishmen by S. Patricius. 150 The distressed Britan's fly into Wales, Cornwall, and Britanny in France. The end of the Roman government in the Island. 154 The Princes that ruled in Britanny, after the Romans had given over the government there, until the Saxons and English obtained it. Vortiger deposed. Vortimer. Vortiger restored. Aurelianus Ambrose. Arthur the warlike. Bishops, and other persons of note, for Learning and Piety, either among the Britan's themselves, or sent unto them from foreign parts, after the Romans had given over the protection of them, until the coming in of Austen the Monk. FAstidius Priscus, a bishop in Britanny (but of what particular place, it is uncertain) a man of great knowledge in Divinity, and a diligent preacher. He lived in the time of Honorius the Emperor, about the year of our redemption. 420. Ninianus Bernitius (descended from the race of the British Princes) who first converted the Picts to Christianity. Palladius (a Grecian) sent from Celestine Bish. of Rome, to preach the Christian faith to the Scottishmen, and to suppress the Pelagian heresy sprung up among them. Patricius (surnamed Magonius) borne in Britanny, of the family of a Senator (whence he took the name Patricius) was sent by Celestine bishop of Rome to the Irish, and Scottishmen, (inhabiting the Isles of the Orcadeses, and Hebredes) to instruct them in the Christian faith, and to confirm them therein against the Pelagian heresy. Bacchiarius (the Scholar of Patricius) was brought up in Rome, and lived in great favour with the Bishop of that place, Leo the first. Dubrius, who (as some write) was Archbishop of Chester, Leg●● of the Sea Apostolic, & Primate of all Britanny. He gave over his Ecclesiastical dignities, and betook himself to an Eremitical life. Congellus, the first Abbot of the Monastery of Bangor, about the year, 530. David Menevensis, the uncle (as some writer's report) of the warlike Prince Arthur, translated the archbishopric from Chester to Saint david's in Wales, whereupon that Sea is called to this day (of his name) Menevensis. Kentegernus, a learned Abbot. Helmothus. Gyldas, a Monk of Bangor, and a writer of some part of the British story. Daniel, the first Bishop of Bangor. Samson, the successor of David Menevensis, in the Bishopric of Saint david's. Elnodugus. Assaph, the Scholar of Abbot Kentegerne, who was made Bishop of Elgoa in Wales, which place was afterwards called Assaph, according to his name, which it continueth to this present. He was the first that received his authority, and consecration from those religious men, that were sent by Gregory the Great, to preach the Christian faith to the English Nation. Herlanus. Elbodus. Dinothus, Abbot of Bangor, in the time of Austen the Monk. Samuel Nivius. THE SECOND PART of the History of Great Britanny. The first Book. VORTIGER. VLT: PRINC: BRIT: portrait of Vortigern The first CHAPTER. A repetition of the Contents of the former part. A brief Relation of the condition of the Britan's under the Picts and Scottishmen, from the Romans departure thence, until the beginning of the reign of Vortiger, the last British Prince. THe Conquest of Britanny (as hath been afore showed) was first attempted by the Romans in the time of julius Caesar, whose short abode in the I'll, and occasions of employment elsewhere, would not permit him to go forward therewith. After him, Caius the Emperor, upon lightness and ambition, pretended a voyage thither, which Claudius his successor prosecuted with effect; for he entered the Island in his own person, and subdued a small part thereof, which he brought into the form of a Province, placing there Aulus Plautius the first Lieutenant, under whom Vespasian, and Titus his son (being then but private men) bare office in the camp. Thenceforth men of special note & regard were commonly sent thither, namely Ostorius Scapula (that tamed the Silureses, and Ordovices, and took Caractacus their Captain prisoner:) Suetonius Paulinus (that conquered the I'll of Anglesey, and recovered the Province well near lost by the general revolt of the Britan's:) Petilius Cerealis (that brought the brigants under subjection) & julius Agricola, (who enlarged the limits of the Province, and marched with his forces even to Caledonia, making the Romans Lords (in a manner) of the whole Island, as commanding all, both by sea, and land. Within few years after, Adrian the Emperor himself, having transported an army thither, to expel the Picts & north- Britan's, (that then invaded the Province) began first of all to rear a Wall of Turfs to defend it: and this example Lollius Vrbicus (the Lieutenant under Antoninus Pius) advisedly following, raised another wall also of like stuff, to strengthen the borders with a double rampire; which fortresses the Northern Britan's boldly assailed, greatly annoying the Province, till by Vlpius Marcellus they were opposed, and repulsed. After whose departure there chanced in the Roman Camp divers mutinies, which Pertinax (that soon after obtained the Empire) fortunately appeased. Then lived the Britan's in peace for a time, till Clodius Albinus the Lieutenant (affecting innovation in the state, and presuming upon the strength and valour of the army in Britanny) assumed there the title of Caesar, and carried over with him into France, a great number of the most warlike Britan's, to renforce his army, for support of his usurped Sovereignty: by which means the Province was much weakened, and the Picts encouraged again to assail it. Severus the Emperor also, for desire of glory, made a voyage thither with Caracalla, and Geta (his two sons, and successors in the Empire) intending the conquest of the most remote and Northern part of the I'll beyond Adrian's wall: but his ill success in the beginning, and despair of better, made him soon give over the enterprise, and to retire himself unto the borders of the Province, where (having repaired the decayed wall, and cut a trench thwart the I'll from sea to sea) he ended his life at York. What was done there from the time of Caracalla to Gallienus the Emperor (whose state as well in Britanny as other places was disturbed, by the Thirty Tyrants, the histories now extant make little mention, till Carausius the Admiral of the British fleet, and after him Alectus, usurped the Empire in Britanny: at what time Constantius Caesar ruled the Province, and afterwards (dying there) left it, as a member of the Empire to his son Constantine surnamed the Great, who was first declared Emperor in Britanny, whence he transported no small number of the Inhabitants that had been trained up under the Roman Legions there, to make war in France and Germany, which were then in Arms for Maxentius. After the death of Constantine, the discord between his three sons gave advantage also to Magnentius Taporus (whose father was a Britain) to usurp the Empire in Britanny: and even then was the Province in danger to have been overrun by the Scottishmen and Picts, if Theodosius had not providently repressed their fury. Clemens Maximus in like manner, upon emulation of Theodosius glory, attempted the Empire, and shipped over the flower of all Britanny into Belgia, and France, where such as escaped the sword of the enemy, did afterwards seat themselves, leaving to their posterity, the continuance of their name in that place, even to this day. Then ensued confusion of all things in Britanny, the Soldiers there swaying them at their own will: now naming Emperors; then deposing them again, and declaring others in their stead: among whom they proclaimed one Constantine (for the names sake only) a man fatally ordained to be the instrument of the subversion of the Province: For by transporting into France the remnant of the British Soldiers, he utterly dis-furnished it, and laid it open to all opportunities of annoyance by the Picts and Scottishmen, who, afterwards (waxing insolent with their prosperous success, in subduing a great part of the Province, and now and then falling at variance and open war among themselves, about the distribution of such spoils, and booties as they had taken) did thereby give intermission and time of breathing to the distressed Britan's, that stood (for the most part) upon doubtful terms, as wavering between hope and despair, and yet sometimes (like men not utterly dejected, or neglecting occasions of advantage, when they were offered) resuming courage again, and resolving rather to die with their country, then to abandon it. Whereupon (as Beda reporteth) they assembled themselves together from divers places, and assailed their enemies, forcing them to retire within their borders, by which means the Britan's (for certain years) lived in peace, and fell to tillage, and other handy works. After that ensued great plenty of grain, and other fruits of the earth, which the Britan's abused, mis-spending them riotously in gluttony and drunkenness. Then pride and dissolute living, (the common causes of the change & ruin of estates) reigned, aswell among the Clergy, as the Laity, both whom the hand of God severely punished, by afflicting them with a grievous pestilence and mortality, which in short time wasted so many of them, as the quick were scarce sufficient in number to bury the dead. Howbeit (the infection once ceasing) the Britan's fell to their old disorders, drawing thereby a greater plague upon them, even the utter subversion, and (in a manner) rooting out of their name and nation, as by that which followeth may partly appear. CHAP. II. The Britan's elect Vortiger to be their King. They send for the Saxons to aid them. The original and manners of the Saxons. AFter the Romans had given over the government and protection of Britanny, the inhabitants of the South parts of the I'll, being altogether unable, by their own strength, any longer to withstand the furious assaults of the Scottishmen and Picts, (who were already come with their power, as far as Stamford upon the river Welland:) assembled themselves together in several companies; and the most ancient and best respected among them, entered into consultation, what means might then be used for defence, in a case of such necessity. But first of all, for that they had found by their late experience, what dangerous effects proceed from civil jars: they resolved with common consent, to run all jointly one and the same course: and for the better strengthening of this their purpose, they elected a King, (whose name was Vortiger) a man much esteemed, both for the nobility of his birth, (as being extract from the line of the British Princes) and also, for the general good opinion conceived of his sufficiency to undergo so weighty a charge, though the eminency of his degree, did (soon after) lay open those vices and infirmities, which his private life had concealed. To him did all the petty Princes in the I'll submit themselves. Then they entered into consultation together, and called to mind, the conditions of such Nations as were most known unto them, considering well with themselves, that from the Romans, there was no more relief to be expected, (Italy itself, the seat of the Empire, being invaded by strangers:) that France was assailed as well as Britanny: that Germany (though a mighty and ample region) was not altogether free from encumbrance. For, this Country had formerly been the common receptacle of those Northern people, that (dwelling beyond the rivers of Rhine and Danow, and being very fruitful in generation) came usually thither to disburden themselves, and to seek new habitations: by reason whereof, the Germans themselves were much distressed, and now and then forced to abandon their native soil; being sometimes also (by consent among themselves) chosen out by lots for that purpose; howbeit those strangers, (which had there planted themselves) were for the most part, better able to annoy other countries, then to maintain in peace, what by intrusion and violence they had gotten. Among all the Germans, there was at that time no one nation, which for great adventures both by sea and land, was more renowned than the Saxons. For, touching the qualities of the mind, they were bold, hardy, and vainglorious, patiently enduring labour, hunger, and cold, whereto by the very constitution of their bodies, and temperature of the climate, they seemed to be framed, as being very strong, and yet not unwealdy, tall of stature, but not uncomely, or out of due proportion. For the North Region, by reason of the coldness of the air, (which driveth the natural heat inward) bringeth forth commonly, men of greater courage and ability of body, than those Countries that lie nearer the Sun. Their diet was simple and homebred; neither knew they any other a long time, till by attaching some of the Romans ships, straggling about the Coasts of France and the Lower Germany, they became first acquainted with their manner of vittailing. Their habit was neither very costly, nor cumbersome, but serving indeed, rather for decency and ornament, then for defence against the sharpness of air, or such like annoyances. For their garments were commonly of linen or yarn, woven with diverse colours, and hanging loose about them: the locks of their hair (which in former times they had been accustomed to shave) being then curled and spread abroad in compass, so that they covered their shoulders and upper parts of their cassocks. The weapons which they ordinarily used in fight, were long spears, round targets, and battleaxes; having also (trussed up behind at their backs) certain short swords, which they did wear continually for readiness upon all occasions. In the Art of Navigation they were very expert, and lived at the first by pilfering, and afterwards by open robbery, being trained up therein, even from their childhood, under a kind of discipline. Storms at sea, unseasonable weather, perils of rocks and sands, loss of goods and shipwreck, (which terrify other men) they carelessly contemned, while they seemed to have, not only a certain knowledge of them, but also a kind of familiarity with them. The offices of Soldiers and Mariners, they executed with like skill, and oftentimes with equal advantage. There was no kind of cruelty in a manner new, or strange unto them: neither were they altogether void of policy, in watching opportunities of time and place, to further their desseins, albeit they were (for the most part) more sudden in attempting and procuring other men's harms, then wary, or well advised in avoiding their own. Superiority in degrees they hardly admitted, but each man commanded and obeyed, as the case required, being as ready to learn of his fellows, what he knew not, as to instruct others in those things wherein he happened to be more skilful than the rest. Of their own blood they were nothing at all sparing, but they exercised cruelty, sometimes even upon themselves, as making less account, to cast away their own lives, then to endure any public shame, scorn, or disgrace. When they did set forth to sea upon any voyage, their custom was, to choose out of the number of their captives, every tenth man to be murdered, and offered up as a purging sacrifice to their profane gods, esteeming it a work of religion, and much more behoveful for them, then to receive any ransom for redemption of such prisoners as they had taken. The Ancestors of these Saxons, (as approved Writers report) did fetch their original from the Sacae, (a people of Asia) that came first out of Scythia into Europe with the Goths▪ Suevians, and Dacians, and (being either by nature inclined to war, or by necessity constrained thereto, for supplying their own wants) ranged oft times from place to place, as men always ready, upon hope of spoil, to be drawn into any action, or to encounter any peril whatsoever. In process of time they seated themselves in Cimbrica Chessonesus, (now called Denmark:) and in the reign of Dioclesian the Emperor, became famous for their piracies committed upon the coasts of Britanny, and the Lower Germany; when Carausius (being sent forth with a Navy to repress them) under colour of that service, attempted and (with some difficulty) attained the Empire. Afterwards, (passing over the river of Elbe) they intruded themselves by little and little, into the ancient seat of the Suevians, encroaching also upon Friesland and Holland: (then called Batavia) the greatest number of them planting themselves in that part of Germany, which is now called Saxony. These were the men, whom the Britan's supposed best able, and most likely to assist them: and thereupon messengers were sent to declare unto them, that the fame of their valour and experience in warlike actions, had moved the Britan's to require their aid, against a barbarous and bloody people, which assayed by force, to subdue the whole Island: that (next the Romans, who had now abandoned it) they knew no Nation more worthy than theirs: that the very terror of the Saxons name, (if they should but once set foot in the Isle) was able to daunt their enemies, who were (for the most part) men unarmed, unskilful in militare affairs, and many times confounded by their own multitude: finally, that if they would undertake this war, they should want, neither provision of victual nor any thing else for their maintenance; the Island being very large and fruitful, yielding abundance of all things, that might serve, either for profit, or delight. The Saxons being very glad of this occasion of employment, (which themselves would have sought, if it had not been thus offered) promised to satisfy the Britan's request, by sending over (with speed) such able men as they had then in readiness, till further provision could be made. And so the messengers were dismissed. CHAP. III. The Saxons vanquish the Scottishmen and Picts. Hengist deviseth how he may get possession of the East part of the Island. THe messengers had scarcely made report of their negotiation at their return into Britanny, when the news came; that certain Saxons, under the conduct of Hengist and Horsa, (two brethren) were landed upon the coast of Kent: whereupon the Britan's from most parts there about, ran to meet them, receiving them with salutations, songs, and feastings, after their Country guise. [The time of the Saxons first arrival, here (by the testimony of their own Writers) was in the year of our redemption 450.] But Vortiger the King, and the chief of the British Nobility, entertained them in other manner: giving them thanks for the great care and diligence, which they had showed, by their speedy repair into the Island: and acquainting them furher with the present state of their affairs. Then was there a contract made between both Nations: namely, that the Saxons should undertake the war against the Picts and Scottishmen, and that the Britan's should provide for them all things necessary thereto, as victuals, armour, and soldiers wages: the charge whereof should be borne by the Britan's only, who were to leavy the same by way of tax, to be imposed upon every inhabitant within the Province, according to his ability: which contract, with other articles depending thereupon, being ratified on both parts; Hengist (considering wisely the nature of the people with whom he was to encounter, and the likely advantage of sudden attempts) thought it best to take the first opportunity, by leading the Saxons (who were very desirous to fight) and such of the Britan's also as he supposed fit for service, into those parts where the barbarous enemy was lodged: and to that end, provision of victual and other necessaries was made, in such measure, as the shortness of the time would permit. The Scottishmen and Picts, albeit they did not greatly fear the Britan's, (whose courage was much abated by the ill success that accompanied their late conflicts:) yet, (hearing that new supplies of strangers were arrived to assist them) they waxed more wary, keeping themselves, for the most part, in their strength: and now, (upon certain intelligence of the approach of a well ordered Army) they resolved to try with them the fortune of a set battle: wherein they found themselves more hardly matched, then in former times, by reason that the Saxons, (nimbly avoiding the darts and spears wherewith they were assailed) did fircely rush upon the Picts, and with their keen swords and weighty axes, made way thorough their thickest troops: so that (having borne down the most valiant before them) they enforced the rest to forsake the field, and save themselves by flight. After this victory, they returned to the I'll of Tanet, (which at their first arrival, was assigned to them for a place of residence) and Hengist their Captain, fortified there diverse places for defence: hoping by that means, both to keep his own Territory in surety, and also (as occasion might serve) to enlarge it. For he apprehended it as a matter of no great difficulty, to make a conquest of the East part of the I'll; considering that the natural inhabitants were already brought upon their knees, the King himelfe given over to ease and pleasure, and in his own conceit, the more secure, the less he intermeddled with public affairs:) that the state of the war now in hand, rested merely in his own direction, and the more freely he was trusted, the more safely he might deceive: that (though he was sent for to help the Britan's,) yet (this fair occasion being offered, which Fortune seemed to have cast into his lap) he had no reason to neglect it, by seeking other men's advantage rather then his own. As for the contract made with them, he was no further bound to it, than the Britan's themselves, who had already failed in performance of some covenants, that the breath of one dissolveth all the rest: and finally, that in him, who hath power, (to prevail where he attempts) nothing can be adjudged unlawful. With these, or the like cogitations, he nourished his ambitious humour; howbeit, knowing well, that the forces which were already brought into the I'll, would not be sufficient to accomplish the enterprise: he persuaded Vortiger, it was very necessary, that more aid should be sent for out of Germany: and to that end he named his brother Octha, and his son Ebusa, (men of approved valour) who might be directed to land with a power in the Picts own Country, and to assail the inhabitants there, while himself in the South parts pursued the rest of them, (with whom he had already encountered:) whose forces being by that means diverted from the heart of the I'll, to succour their Countrymen at home, or wanting their wont supplies, which should then of force be employed elsewhere for defence, there might be some hope of a speedy and full end of the war: the event whereof, otherwise was now more to be feared then in former times, if the North-britans', (whetted with desire of revenge, and having space of breathing given them) should make head, and assail them again. This counsel seeming profitable, (howsoever it proved pernicious in the end) was allowed by the King, either for that he foresaw not the peril likely to ensue thereupon: or else, for that such things as God himself hath determined, are doubtless (though sometimes foreseen) yet never prevented. CHAP. FOUR Saxons, jutes, and Angles, arrive in Britanny. Vortiger marrieth Hengists' daughter. He is deposed. IN the mean while, the Germans (inflamed with continual reports of the wealth and fruitfulness of the Isle) and solicited by Hengist (who discovered to them the weak estate of the Britan's, and the facility of supplanting them,) hired certain small vessels; wherein themselves, their wives, children, and families were transported into divers parts of the Land: at which time, Rowen the daughter of Hengist (a woman of excellent beauty, and not of the worst behaviour) (having been specially sent for by her father) arrived in Kent, and was forthwith conveyed to the palace, where Vortiger, and Hengist made their abode. Of those Germans that then came over, there were three several kinds of people: namely, Saxons, jutes, and Angles, though the Saxons seemed to bear the most sway, by reason both of the general respect of that Nation, for their many and great exploits, and also for the authority of their Captains, Hengist, and Horsa, who were of the lineage of Woden, from whom the Saxon Princes (that afterwards reigned in the Isle) used always (for honour's sake) to derive their descent. From these Saxons, the East, West, and South Saxons had their original. The jutes (as some writer's report, and as the affinity of the names may seem in some sort to infer) were descended from the Geteses, and Goths, and dwelled in the upper part of Denmark, which is at this day called juitland. From them the Kentishmen, with the Inhabitants of the I'll of Wight, and of that part of the firm land (which lieth over against it) had their beginning▪ The name of the jutes, was of no long continuance in Britanny: notwithstanding, their posterity was incorporated into the Saxons, and Angles, who were accounted but one Nation, the name of either of them being indifferently used, as common to both; till in the end, the Angles possessing the greatest part of the land, they were all known, and called by that name alone. The Angles in those days were a people well esteemed among the Germans, and in number exceeded both the Saxons, and jutes. Touching their ancient seat, the opinions of Writers are differing, though it be most probable, that they did sometimes inhabit that part of Denmark (yet retaining the name of Angle) which lieth between juitland, and Holsatia. From them came the East Angles, the Mercians, and Northumber's. But Hengist knowing well, that fraud, and cunning practices ofttimes prevail, where force itself cannot, resolved (as occasion might serve) to make use of both; and to that end (observing well the King's humour) he applied himself in all things to follow it: specially, by soothing and nourishiug him in those vices, to which by Nature he was most addicted, supposing thereby to strengthen his own estate, and with more security, to accomplish his desire: while the King intended nothing more, than the satisfaction of his immoderate appetite in sensual pleasures, which had already brought him into contempt and hatred with his people, and would by all likelihood open the way to his speedy destruction. Whereupon one day (inviting Vortiger to a feast) he appointed Rowen his daughter, to attend upon him as his Cupbearer: at which time (by her father's instruction) she behaved herself in such manner, as the King fell in love with her: and although he had a wife then living, yet was he not ashamed to tell Hengist in plain terms, that he earnestly desired to become his son in law, if he might attain his consent for the marriage of his danghter. Hengist (who had cast out his bait of purpose to catch him) pretended respect of Vortigers own reputation, which (as he said) should be too much impaired by matching with a poor Maiden, a stranger by birth, far inferior to him in degree, and no way worthy of so great fortune; howbeit, in the end he seemed by entreaty to yield to that, which himself would voluntarily have offered: and so (making use of the occasion) he was content to take the thanks, which he of right should have given. Hereupon Vortiger having cast behind him all regard, both of divine and human laws, did put away his lawful wife (by whom he had three children) and (contrary to the advice of his faithful Counsellors) married Hengist the Saxons daughter. Upon the conclusion of this marriage, a great part of the Country of Kent (which had been many years together governed by Guorongus, as the King's deputy there) was assigned to Hengist, who like a wily Serpent, having now gotten in his head, found means in a short time to wind in his whole body. It is reported by some Writers, that Vodin (than Archbishop of London) reproving the King for his incontinency, and other vices (which drew him down with his Realm to ruin) was by the commandment of Hengist put to death, with many other Priests, and religious Votaries, as persons too well affected to their Country, and odious to the Saxons for profession of Christianity. This inconsiderate match, and immeasurable bounty of the King, was much disliked by the Britan's, for that the Saxons, presuming of the King's favour, by reason of his new affinity with them, came over daily in great numbers, pestering the East parts of the I'll, and many times offering abuse to the natural Inhabitants. Whereupon the British Nobility complained to the King, that their estate was now much worse than before the Saxons arrival: that Strangers (under the colour of friendship) rob them of their goods, and bereft them of their lands: that secret practices of such as they trusted, were no less to be feared, then open hostility: and that if speedy order were not taken to expel them, they would in short time root out the ancient Britan's, and make themselves Lords of the whole Island. But Vortiger (whose affection to his wife, and her kindred weighed down all other respects whatsoever) neglected their complaints, till by his own experience he was taught, what dangerous inconveniences proceed from wilful rashness, and misgovernment. For the Britan's (disdaining to be any longer commanded by such a Prince, as had neither power to command his own affections, nor care to provide for the safety of his Subjects) declared him uncapable, and by general consent, deprived him of all regal authority. CHAP. V. Vortimer succeed his father in the government. Vortiger is restored. The most noble of the Britan's are treacherously murdered by the Saxons upon Salisbnrie Plains. THen Vortimer his son (a man in disposition of his mind much unlike his father) was declared King, & renewed the war with the Saxons, whom he encountered in a pitched field near Ailsford in Kent. In that conflict Catigern his brother, and Horsa the brother of Hengist, fight hand to hand, were both slain, whereby though the Saxons perished in greater number than the Britan's: yet by the loss of the Generals on both sides, the fortune of the battle seemed in a manner to be equal. On the part of the Britan's there died no man of name, save only Catigern, in remembrance of whose death there was afterwards a Sepulchre of stone erected, where the battle was fought. The like Monument was also built by the Saxons for Horsa, their Captain, though Time hath now defaced it: howbeit the memory of the place itself (if credit may be given to the Inhabitants there,) is continued among them even to this day, by a small Village in East Kent, yet bearing his name. After this, the Britan's made divers attempts upon their enemies, sometimes winning, sometimes losing; and then recovering again, that which they had lost, when Vortimer the King ended his days, either by a natural death, or by the treachery of Rowen his Stepmother. He was a Prince of great courage adorned with many Moral virtues, and (as some writers have reported) a favourer and professor of the Christian religion. Then was Vortiger the King (either upon hope that adversity had wrought in him a reformation of mind, or else, for fear lest any civil discord should arise by the election of any other) revoked with common consent of the Britan's, and restored to his former estate. During his sons reign (as the British Story reporteth) he lived a private life near Radnor in Wales, where he bestowed much cost in building a Castle for defence (as himself vainly imagined against any sudden assault. In the mean time, the strength of the Saxons increased by new supplies, which came daily out of Germany: and the Britan's now doubted their own estates so much the more, by reason that the Picts and Scottishmen (their ancient enemies) were dispersed in most parts of the I'll: the Saxons also, for their own advantage, entering oftentimes into secret confederacy and mutual leagues with them. But Hengist (supposing that he could not with safety enjoy the possession of that territory, which Vortiger had assigned unto him, so long as the chief, and most valiant of the British Nation remained alive) devised by a cunning practice (under pretence of hospitality and friendship) to draw them together into one place, and on the sudden to surprise them. To this end he prepared a solemn Banquet, at which the King, with divers Noble personages (as bidden guests) were present, suspecting nothing less, than what was intended against them. For the Britan's being warm with good cheer, and wine (whereof they had drunk immeasurably) were scoffed at by the Saxons, the one provoking the other so far with reproachful terms, that in the end they fell from words to blows, in such furious manner, as the Britan's (being about three hundred in number, all unarmed, and surcharged with Wine,) were slain in the place, and Vortiger their King taken prisoner; who (soon after delivering for his ransom, the whole Country of Kent, with other Provinces thereto adjoining, into the Saxons hands) fled to his Castle in Wales: where (supposing himself free from danger) he continued his vicious and profane manner of living, till in the end, both himself, and his Castle (as some Writers affirm) was by lightning from heaven consumed to ashes. Thus Vortiger the last King of the British blood, a Prince in manners dissolute, and weak in actions, was by Strangers dispossessed of his Kingdom: living to see the ruin of his Country, whereof himself was the principal cause, and dying in the end a strange and unnatural death, which is commonly the issue of a disordered and infamous life. The report goeth, that this fatal meeting was held upon Salisbury Plains, where (not many years after Aurelianus Ambrose caused that strange building of Stone (now called stonehenge) to be erected, as a perpetual Monument of so many worthy Britan's slain and buried there; concerning which, sundry conjectures have been made, as being either framed according to men's particular conceits, or grounded upon common reports received by tradition. But by what means soever they came thither, they are accounted at this day, one of the miracles of England, in regard both of the Stones themselves, which are of a huge bigness: and also of their composition, and order, whereby they seem (in a manner) to be supported with their own weight, in hanging one by another: considering withal, that there are no Stones fit for building, to be found with in many miles of that place. CHAP. VI The calamities of the Britan's. The Professors of Christian Religion in Britanny are persecuted by the Saxons; whose Idolatry and superstitious rites are described. NOw were the Britan's driven from place to place, some flying to the Mountains: others hiding themselves in Caves under the ground, where they either perished for want of food, or (coming abroad to seek relief) were cruelly murdered: their enemies in the mean time ranging up and down without resistance, razing their houses, polluting the Altars in their Temples with the blood of their Priests, burning the Temples themselves, and committing all manner of Sacrilege and outrage, without regard of place, or person. For the Saxons, as by little and little they planted themselves in the most wealthy & fruitful parts of the I'll; so they endeavoured to supplant the truth of Christian religion, whereof they professed themselves open enemies: as men merely addicted to heathenish superstition, in worshipping diverse gods and goddesses; among whom, the images of Thor, Woden, Frea, and Eoster, were placed in their Temples, as their chief Patrons. They painted Thor with a Sceptre in his hand, after the same manner that the Poets used to describe the image of jupiter: and him they reverenced as the commander and disposer of Thunder and Lightning, with all those 〈◊〉 is that are engendered in the middle Region of the air, consecrating to him the fifth day of the week, which was afterwards called Tho●sday. The name of Woden they attributed to Mercury, or (as some write) to Mars, whom they reverenced as a protector in war, and a giver of strength and courage against their enemies: To him they usually sacrificed with man's blood, and dedicated the fourth day of the week, (naming it Wodensday) as yet retaining the first denomination with very little difference. Under the name of Frea, they sacrificed to Venus, (as the giver of peace and pleasure) whom they adored sometimes under the figure of Priapus, committing to her the patronage of the sixth day, called Frea day. Of these three, Thor was placed upon a three-footed stool in the midst, and Woden and Frea on each side. To the goddess Eoster, they always offered sacrifice in the month of April, which thereupon was called Eoster-month. In their consultations of any weighty matter, they observed soothsaying and casting of lots. Their custom of casting of lots was, first to cut a branch from a fruit bearing tree, into many pieces, which (being distinguished with several marks) they did cast upon a white garment at a venture: then (if the matter concerned the Common wealth in general) the Priest; if a private person only, the master of the house (having prayed the gods, and looking towards heaven,) did take up every of the said pieces three times, and interpreted the future success according to the form and similitude of the marks. If the lots fell out contrary to their minds, they consulted no more that day: if otherwise, yet they would make further trial, by observing the flying and singing of birds. They had another practice also, 〈…〉 the event of great and weighty battles with their enemies. For they would get some one of that Nation, with which the war should be made, and then take another choice man of their own, arming them both after their country guise, and so make trial of their valour, conjecturing by the success of that fight, on whose side the victory should afterwards fall. But of all other presages, the neighing of horses was of greatest credit, both with the Priests and people; who fond supposed, that those beasts understood, and were privy to their secrets. And hereupon (as some imagine) the Dukes of Saxony in times past, gave a horse for their ensign. The names also of Hengist and Hors●, (the first men of note of the Saxon Nation that arrived in Britanny) do signify in their own language a Horse: which denominations, whether they were given in respect of their strength and courage, (qualities by nature proper to that beast) or whether they received them upon any other occasion or accident, I cannot certainly affirm. CHAP. VII. Germanus the Bishop conducteth the Army of the Christian Britan's against their enemies, (being Pagans) who by his means are defeated. He departeth out of Britanny. IN the mean time, the Britan's (coming together from the places of their retreat, and combining their dispersed forces, the better to defend themselves against the power of the enemy) were freshly assailed by the Sco●tishm●n & P●cts, a great number of the Saxons also, being newly entered into association with them: whereupon Germanus the Bishop, who came over into Britanny a little before the Saxons arrival, & had remained there with Lupus, to the end they might instruct & confirm the Britan's in the true ●aith, against the Pelagian heresy, (confident in the goodness of the cause, & to give encouragement to his new converts) offered himself to be the Leader of the British Army, which consisted (for the most part) of such Christians as himself had lately baptized. The place wherein he pitched, was a fair valley, enclosed on both sides with high mountains, over which their enemies were to march. The Bishop himself, and certain Priests that attended him, standing in the midst of the Army, exhorted the Britan's to fight courageously as the Soldiers of Christ, under the banner of his Cross, (which badge they had received in their baptism) and commanding them all, upon the enemy's approach, to answer him by crying aloud with one consent, in such manner as himself began. Hereupon the Saxons and Scottishmen ascending the further side of the hill, supposed to have charged the Britan's on the sudden: which when Germanus and the Priests that were about him perceived, they cried out three several times, Alleluia: all the Britan's seconding the cry, and the Echo rebounding from the hills doubling the sound: by reason whereof, the Pagans (imagining the number of the Christians to be much greater than it was indeed) cast away their weapons, and fled; the Britan's killing many of them in pursuit; & such as escaped the sword, being drowned in a river which impeached them in their flying. After this memorable victory, Germanus persuading the Britons to unity and constancy in the profession of Christian religion, as a means to make their attempts (against their enemies) prosperous: departed out of Britanny, whither (as some Writers report) he soon after returned, and by the assistance of Severus the Bishop of Trevers, suppressed the Pelagian heresy, which (after his departure) sprung up again, and increased among the Britan's. In remembrance of whose zeal and travail in that behalf sustained, the Christians of Britanny afterwards dedicated unto him (as a protecting Saint,) certain Churches and houses of religion, in diverse parts of the land. CHAP. VIII. Aurelianus Ambrose aideth the Britan's against the Saxons. The valiant acts of Arthur the Warlike. THe Saxons (perceiving now that the Britan's were scattered in several troops, dis-armed, and unfurnished of all things necessary for support of the war) prepared themselves to follow them, and to impeach them from joining their forces together any more: to which end, they divided themselves into several companies, with a full resolution, either utterly to destroy, or to expel them out of the I'll: which they had almost brought to pass, when Aurelianus Ambrose, coming out of Britanny in France, brought hither some of the Britan's, (that had seated themselves there) who (pitying their distressed countrymen in the Island) determined, either to relieve them, or to perish in the enterprise. This Ambrose was a Roman by birth, honourably descended, and (as hath been conjectured) of the race of that Constantine who for the hope of his name only, (which was reputed ominous) had been elected Emperor by the Roman Army in Britanny. And being now the chief Leader of the Britan's, he oft times encountered the Saxons, and by the assistance of Arthur, (a valiant Captain) gave them many overthrows; the circumstances and particularities whereof I find nowhere remembered, nor of any thing else concerning him, save only that he unfortunately ended his life, before he could make an end of the war. Then Arthur the Warlike, (the Nephew of Ambrose, according to the opinion of some Writers) undertook the prosecution of the war, both against the Scottishmen and Picts, whom he chased into the remote parts of the North; & also against the Saxons, whom in twelve several battles, (as our British stories affirm) he valiantly defeated. The most memorable was tha● which he fought on Bathon-hill, where he obtained a notable and (if credit in that point may be given to ancient reports) an admirable victory: and surely, had not the inevitable power of Fate otherwise determined; doubtless the Britan's should have needed no other help to support and repair their declining and torn estate. For besides his good inclination to protect the Christian faith, he was adorned with many heroical virtues, but chiefly renowned for the love of Chivalry. The British Story reporteth, that he instituted an Order of Knights, who (as his companions) did sit with him at a round Table, whereupon they were called, Knights of the Round Table: that form of a Table, seeming perhaps most fit to avoid contention, which many times ariseth among great spirits about superiority of place. These Knights were commonly chosen for their valour and skill in feats of Arms, wherein they strove (upon emulation) one to excel another. Into this society were admitted strangers of diverse Nations, who for desire of glory, came over into the Island, to make proof of their sufficiency by exercise of arms with the British Knights. For Arthur himself (by undertaking great & difficult enterprises in foreign Countries, after he had subdued the Saxons in Britanny) made his name no less famous abroad then at home. Touching his birth, some have doubted whether he were a Roman, or a Britain: though the Britan's challenge him for their Countryman, confidently affirming, that he was borne at Tyndagel in Cornwall; and surely, if the acts of such worthy men (as at sundry times were transported out of the I'll to aid the Romans in the wane of the Western Empire) had been faithfully registered, the glory of the British Nation might well have been preserved from all suspicion of untruth, without the support of forged and fabulous inventions. As for the place where he died, or the manner of his death, I find no certain report concerning the same in any approved Writer: But his body was buried at Glastenbury, between two Pyramids, where the enscription of his name (engraven upon a leaden Cross) was discovered many hundred years after his death; namely, in the reign of King Henry the second; who (having some intelligence of the place, by the songs of the British Bards) commanded it to be digged, and the Monument to be sought for. Divers strange and incredible things to the prejudice of posterity, have been written of this Prince, of Queen Guinever his wife, of Gawen his sister's son, and of Merlin, a fantastical Prophet, with others, commonly called, wandering Knights: matters indeed more fit for feigned Legends, and poetical fictions, then for a History, which ought to be a Register of things, either truly done, or at least, warrantable by probability. And albeit those ridiculous and absurd reports of idle Writers, do seem to have repaired the reputation of this Prince, and to have called in question the truth itself, so far forth, as some have doubted, whether there were ever any such man or not: yet diverse Authors of good regard, (pitying his misfortune in that behalf) have both confirmed his being, and commended him as a great soldier and the chief pillar of the State of Britanny in his time. CHAP. IX. The Britan's fly into Wales and Cornwall, where they seat themselves. The Saxons and English possess the greatest part of the I'll, which is afterwards divided into several Principalities. AFter the death of the noble Prince Arthur, the hope of the Britan's was cleane abated, and a great number of them fled secretly into Wales and Cornwall, as places furthest off from annoyance by the enemy, and naturally defensible, by reason of the bogs, woods, and high mountains on the one side, and the seas on the other. Then the Saxons finding little or no resistance, began in process of time, to erect certain Provincial governments in the South parts of the I'll, & in the end, divided the whole Land (excepting that portion which the Scottishmen and Picts inhabited Northward) into seven Principalities, which were severed by certain limits, and governed (for the most part) by Princes, according to order of succession, till by making continual war one upon another, and the Provinces subdued, augmenting the Dominions of the Conqueror, the whole land was in the end brought into a Monarchy by the West Saxons. But in what manner these things were done, the Writers of former ages have much varied, and the actions and events of those times, being set down so darkly and corruptly, that I purposed to have omitted the relation of them, (as a hard and unpleasant task for me to undertake, and likely to receive small approbation of others:) if I had not been thereto induced, partly for respect of order, which required a continuation, and partly upon desire to preserve the memory of some men, whose names, (as marks of our Christianity imposed upon us in our baptism, and registered in our calendars & Churches) are at this day in some use with us: deserving well (considering the state and condition of that age) not to be altogether forgotten, howsoever their doings through the negligence or ignorance of some Writers, have been left to posterity, as records of Antiquity, farced with absurdities, and composed merely of fragm●nts peeced together, sometimes without method, and, for the most part, without due coherence of circumstances and matters. For many of those Writers, (being Monks and religious persons) unacquainted with matters of estate, applied themselves, for the most part, to register the charitable deeds of their Bishops and benefactors, founders and maintainers of Monasteries and Hospitals, or such like general observations: and if aught were well written by any secular man, the same hath perished by the many calamities of the Country, (a thing common to us with other Nations) or Time itself hath worn out, in a manner, the remembrance thereof. I purpose therefore, to make only a bare and simple narration of the names of the Princes, and to point out the most memorable things (as I find them reported) in their several reigns: distinguishing the Principalities themselves, and relating successively one after another, such actions, as for the most part, concurred in time: whereby, though I shall be sometimes forced to report the same matters, yet I shall more easily avoid confusion and obscurity, which the handling of them all jointly, would bring with it. And so superficially passing over these imperfect affairs, of the sevenfold regiment of the Saxons and English, I will hasten to the occurrents of those times, which afford more certain and plentiful matter of discourse, and may yield (perhaps) some contentation to the Writer, and more profit and delight to the Reader. The end of the First Book of the Second Part of the History of Great Britanny. ❧ The suceession of the Kentish-Saxon Princes. 1 HEngist ruled 31. years. 2 Vsk 24. years. 3 Otta 20. years. 4 Ermeric 29. years. 5 Ethelbert, the first Christian Prince, 26. years. 6 Edbald 24. years. 7 E●combert 24. years. 8 Egbert 9 years. 9 Lothar 12. years. 10 Edrick 2 years. 11 Withered 33. years. 12 Edbert 23. years. 13 Edelbert 11. years. 14 Alric 34. years. ❧ The Archbishops and Bishops in the Principality of the Kentish-Saxons; the times of their succession and continuance in their Seas, from the conversion of the English Nation to Christianity, until the reign of Egbert, the Westsaxon Prince, who first obtained the Monarchy. Anno Dom. Archbishops of Canterbury. 598 Augustine the Monk, (sent by Gregory the Great, than Bishop of Rome, to preach the Christian faith to the English) sat 16. years. 614 Laurentius 5. years. 619 Mellitus (translated from the Sea of London) 5. years. 624 justus (translated from the Sea of Rochester) 4. yeare●. After whose death, the Sea was void one year. 628 Honorius 26. years. After whose death, the Sea was void three years. 655 Deusdedit 10. years. After whose death, the Sea was void three years. 668 Theodorus 22. years. 693 Bertualdus 38. years. 731 Tatwinus 4. years. 735 Nothelmus 5. years. After his death, the Sea was void one year. 740 Cuthbertus, translated from the Sea of Hereford, 18. years. 759 Bregwinus 3. years. 762 Lambrihtus, (who had formerly been Abbot of St. Augustine) 31. years. 791 Aethelardus, (in the time of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince) 13. years. Anno Dom. Bishops of Rochester. 604 justus (ordained the first Bishop there by Augustine the Archbishop of Canterbury) sat 20. years. 624 Romanus 10 years. 634 Paulinus (translated from the Sea of York) 10. years. 644 Ithamarus 12. years. After whose death, the Sea was void four years. 656 Damianus 9 years. 669 Putta 8. years. 677 Quichelmus 4. years. After whose death, the Sea was void three years. 681 Gebmundus 9 years. 693 Tobias 34. years. 727 Aldwulfus 13. years. 740 Dunnus 24. years. 764 Eardulfus 11. years. 775 Deora 15. years. 790 Weremundus (in the time of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince) 12. years. THE SECOND PART: Kentish-Saxons. The second Book. HENGIST: ay: PRINC: SAX: portrait of Hengist CHAP. I. The Principality of the Kentish-Saxons established by Hengist, whom Vsk, Otta, and Ermeric succeed in the government. Austen the Monk is sent from Rome by Gregory the Great, to preach the Christian faith to the Saxons and English. He landeth in Kent; where he is courteous, pertained by Ethelbert, the Prince of that Country. THE Territory of the Kentish-Saxons, did at the first, include only that part, which at this day is contained within the county of Kent, being the very entrance & key of the whole Island. The west & south sides of it butt upon the firm land: on the East, the British Ocean beateth, and upon the North, runneth the famous river Thames, navigable for ships of very great burden, and ebbing and flowing many miles within the land: whereby commodities are brought in, and carried forth, to the enriching of itself, and the Countries round about. This Principality (enlarged by addition of such Provinces as Vortiger, after the slaughter of the British Nobility delivered to the Saxons for his ransom) was established by Hengist eight years after his arrival, about the year of grace 456. Valentinian, the third of that name, then shoring up the decayed Empire in the West. Although (by consent of diverse Writers) he ruled a long time; yet little or nothing is left of record, concerning any thing done by him, after he was settled in the government: either for that perhaps, no great occasion was ministered to show himself in action, (the Britan's being now seated in the remote parts of the I'll, and his own countrymen making war in other places of the same) or else, for that (being wearied with the war) he gave himself to ease and quietness, supposing he had done enough already, in making the first attempt in an enterprise so difficult, and in getting and leaving to his posterity, the possession of so fair and fruitful Countries. After his death, there reigned, either jointly, or successively, Vsk, Otta, and Ermeric; concerning whom, I find no other mention then of their names only. Ethelbert (succeeding Ermeric his father) was in the beginning of his reign, much encumbered with wars, which he made with very ill success against Ceaulin, Prince of the Westsaxons: but afterwards, (his knowledge in militare affairs increasing with his years) he fortunately repaired those losses: extending his Dominion, (by reducing the South Provinces to his obedience) even to the water of Humber. And the better to strengthen his estate by foreign alliance, he married Bertha the danghter of Ch●rebert, than King of France, a virtuous Lady, and a professor of Christianity, wherein the King her husband was not as yet instructed: howbeit he permitted both herself and Luidhard a French Bishop, (that accompanied her into Britanny) to use the Rites and Ceremonies of their own Country and religion: either for observance of the contract which Ethelbert before the marriage had made with the King her Father to that end, or else, for the hearty and entire affection which he bore unto her, as his wife, whom God had ordained to be the means of his conversion to the Christian faith. For in the year of grace five hundred ninety six, and fourteenth of the reign of Mauritius the Emperor, Austen a Monk, was sent by Gregory the first, (surnamed the Great, than Bishop of Rome) to preach the faith to the Saxons and English, then inhabiting the I'll of Britanny, where (landing in the I'll of Tanet, upon the coast of Kent) he was entertained in courteous manner by Ethelbert the Prince, whose heart being somewhat prepared by his wife's persuasion, and by the example of Luidhard, the devout Bishop that lived with her) was more apt, in time, to take impression of the Truth, whereto (though himself assented not at the first,) yet he licenced it to be taught privately, and assigned to Austen a convenient seat at Canterbury, (the chief City of that Province) giving him an old Church, which in former times had been erected by certain Romans. (exercising there the Christian religion) and consecrated to our Saviour Christ. This Church was then re-edified, and (not many years after) Austen without the City Eastward, laid the foundation of a Monastery: for which Ethelbert erected a Church, wherein both Austen himself with his successors, and also the Christian Princes of Kent, were (for the most part) interred after their death. This Monastery being finished, long time after Austin's decease, was dedicated to him by the name of Saint Austen, whose memorial the ruins of that place retain even to this day. CHAP. II. Austen converteth diverse of the Saxons and English from Paganism to Christianity. The cause that first moved Gregory the Great to intend their conversion. Austen is consecrated chief Bishop of the English Nation by the Bishop of Arles in France. He advertiseth the Bishop of Rome, of the success of his voyage into Britanny, and requireth directions touching the Ecclesiastical government to be there established. IN the mean time, Austen (being now received as the Apostle of the English Nation) and such Priests as were with him, exercised their Ecclesiastical functions, without impeachment; and for that they were altogether ignorant of the British language, they used the help of such Interpreters, as they had brought with them out of France, in preaching and instructing the people: with whom, partly by their doctrine, and partly by their example they prevailed so much, as many of them believed, and were baptised: for their teachers began then to express in their lives the practice of the Apostles in the Primitive Church, by continual watching, fasting, and praying, contemning the world, and contenting themselves with things necessary to sustain Life and Nature: so strongly were they possessed with the spirit of zeal, in first planting the Christian religion among Idolatrous Saxons, and English. It is reported, that Gregory the Great (when he was but Archdeacon of the Sea of Rome) took notice first of the state of the I'll of Britanny, by seeing certain young men (borne in a Province of the Northumber's) presented in an open Market at Rome, to be there sold: For, marking well their fair complexions, and comeliness of stature, he inquired whence they were: and understanding that they were Angles, of a Province called Deira, and under the government of Alla, but as yet heathen (for so the Inhabitants of those parts than were:) he seemed much to lament, that such excellent outward gifts of Nature, should want the ornaments of inward grace: and thereupon alluding to the name of their Prince and Country, (according to their significations in the Latin, and Hebrew tongue;) he uttered these words, as it were by way of Prophecy: These men are worthily called Angles, for they have the very faces of Angels: and they shall be one day fellow heirs with Angels in Heaven. For the people of Deira, must be delivered Deira Divina, by their conversion to the Christian faith: and Alla their King must be taught to sing Alleluia to the praise of the most high God: which work (being now Bishop of Rome) he was made the Instrument to effect, by sending Austen at this time to preach the faith of Christ in Britanny, where (in a short space) the Christian Religion increased, in such measure, that upon one day (wherein the memorial of the birth of our Saviour was celebrated) there was above ten thousand men, besides women and children, baptised in a river: the water thereof being hallowed by Austen the Monk, who commanded the people (by reason of the great multitude, and the small number of Priests) to go in by couples, and one to baptize another, In the name of the blessed Trinity. When these things were done, Austen went into France, where (according to order given by the Sea of Rome before his departure thence) he was by Etherius Bishop of Arles consecrated chief Bishop of the English Nation, and at his return into Britanny, he sent Laurence a Priest, and Peter a Monk, to advertise the Bishop of Rome of the success of his labours, requiring also further instructions in some doubtful points, concerning the discipline of the Church, and other matters of ceremony and observance. CHAP. III. Instructions sent to Austen from the bishop of Rome, for the ordering and government of the new Church in Britanny. The Primacy of the Sea of Canterbury. The first English bishops of London and York. HEreupon the Bishop of Rome signified by his Letters to Austen, and the rest of his Associates, how acceptable a work, to God and his Church, they had performed: commending their great zeal, and constant minds, which neither the travail of a long and laborious journey, nor fear of danger by sea or land, could dismay from persisting in their good intention: giving thanks to God, that had assisted them with his spirit, and exhorting them to hold on the course into which they were already entered. Touching the Ecclesiastical government, if there were any thing, either in the Church of Rome, France, or any other Church, which Austen thought meet to be altered, for the better service of God: he willed him therein to use his pastoral authority, and to select out of every one of them, what himself thought most requisite for settling an uniformity of government in the Church of Britanny: affirming, that divine worship was not to be esteemed in regard of the place, but the place to be honoured, in regard of the divine worship. Further, he put him in mind of the ancient custom of the Sea of Rome, which had ordained the profits and revenues of bishoprics to be divided into four equal parts: whereof the first was assigned to the Bishop himself, and the family, for the maintenance of hospitality: the second for the benefit of the Clergy in general: the third for relief of the poor, and the fourth for repairing of Churches. Then he admonished him, to deal gently with the new Converts, and to tolerate some of their erroneous Traditions for a time, lest by restraining them at first to the precise observation of Christian discipline in every point, he might divert them from their good purpose, and hinder the proceeding in the general cause: For he supposed it a matter of very great difficulty, to pluck up at once those rank weeds of Superstition, which by long continuance of time had taken deep ●oote in their affections: considering well, that he that desireth to attain the highest place, must ascend thither by steps and degrees, and not by leaps (as it were) in an instant. He answered likewise many other objections, propounded by Austen. concerning degrees of consanguinity and alliance, to be observed in cases of Marriage, and also touching the admission of meet persons to be partakers of the Lords Supper. Touching the punishment of Sacrilege, he advised, that offenders therein might first be charitably corrected & admonished, to the end, that (knowing the greatness of the crime) they might, by penance, and restitution make amends, and detest from thenceforth to commit the like. With the Bishops of France, he willed him not to intermeddle otherwise then by counsel, and exhortatation, lest (by interposing himself in matters of Ecclesiastical government there) he should seem to thrust his Sickle into an other man's Harvest: but he appointed all the Bishops of Britanny to be under his jurisdiction, giving him power to nominate, and consecrate Bishops in several places, where he thought convenient. Howbeit it was then decreed, that the Bishop of London should (ever after) be consecrated by his own Synod, and receive his Pall from the Sea of Rome; for he appointed the City of London to be the Metropolis and chief Sea: though Austen (contrary to the Bishop of Rome's direction in that behalf) transferred it afterwards to Canterbury, as a place unto which he was well affected, for the good entertainment he had there first received: and also, for that it was more commodious for sending by Sea to Rome, and more free from danger, than the miner parts about London, whose inhabitants were less civil, and not so well in inclined to receive the doctrine of christianity, as the 〈◊〉 were: For Pope Gregory ordained, London, and York to be the Seas of two Archbishoprikes, and that each of them should have under it twelve inferior bishoprics, but that neither of the Archbishops should be subject to other, nor take place of precedence otherwise then according to priority of consecration, save only that (for Austin's honour) he appointed all of them to remain under his jurisdiction during his life. CHAP. FOUR Austen receiveth the Pall from Rome. Gregory the Great sendeth gratulatory Letters to Ethelbert, who is converted to the faith, being the first Christi●n Prince of the English nation. The Church of Saint Paul in London is founded? Melitus the first Bishop there in the Saxons time. justus the first Bishop of Rochester Contention between the English and British Clergy, about celebration of the feast of Easter. WIth these and other such like instructions, the Messengers were dispatched into Britanny, where, at their return, they presented to Austen, the Pall (the ornament of a Bishop) which the Bishop of Rome had sent unto him as a 〈◊〉 and confirmation of his Ecclesiastical dignity and authority, and also certain Vessels and Vestments which were thought meet to be used for 〈◊〉 in the English Churches. 〈…〉, with diverse other godly learned men, were appointed to accompany the Messengers into the Island, to the end they might assist Austen, and the Priests there in preaching the Gospel▪ At that time the Bishop of Rome sent also certain gifts of great value to Ethelbert the Prince, and by special Letters commended his favourable usage and princely bounty showed, in receyving and maintaining such persons, as came into his Country, to instruct himself and his Subjects in the knowledge of true Religion (the greatest blessing that ever any Nation could enjoy:) signifying withal, that by his conformity to those things which they taught, a happy entrance was already made for reducing the whole Island to Christianity, and that if he persevered as he had begun, he might undoubtedly expect an eternal reward in heaven. For albeit Ethelbert at the first was not very readily induced to abandon the ancient superstitious customs of his own Nation, partly, for that he had been trained up therein from his tender years▪ and partly, for that he was secretly informed, that some of the Priests (which then preached the faith of Christ) were seditious persons, exercising witchcraft, and seducing the people, under pretence of simplicity: yet after his conversion he became a zealous professor and practise● of piety: erecting fair Temples for divine Service, endowing them with large possessions; and earnestly exhorting other Princes within the I'll to do the like. He founded a Church in the City of London, which the Kentish Saxons (in right of superiority over the East-Saxons) at that time possessed, and dedicated it to the Apostle Saint Paul. In more ancient times (as some conjecture by the bones of such beasts as were usually sacrificed by the Gentiles, and found in that place) there had been a Temple dedicated to Diana; of that Church Melitus (being sent by Austen to preach the Christian faith to the East-Saxons) was afterwards elected the first Bishop. The City of Rochester also he assigned to justus, who was consecrated the first Bishop of that Sea. But while these things were a doing, there arose some controversy between the English Roman Clergy, and certain British Bishops, concerning the celebration of the feast of Easter, and other Rites and Ceremonies, wherein the British Church dissented from the Church of Rome: for the Britan's then dwelling in Wales, and the West parts of the Isle) continued there the exercise of the Christian faith, which had been preserved among them ever since it was first planted in the Island, though now and then the clear course thereof, was either by contagious Heresies, or by profane and irreligious Princes, interrupted for a time: howbeit, when they perceived the Saxons themselves in some measure to approve it, they began with boldness to make open profession of it, as seeming therein to agree even with their enemies, howsoever otherwise in respect of language, situation, or the law of Nations they were divided. CHAP. V. Austen calleth a Synod to reconcile the differences between the British and English Clergy. The British Bishops ask counsel of an Anchorite, whether they should conform themselves to such things as Austen the Monk should require of them. They refuse to accept him for their Archbishop. Austen appointeth Laurentius to succeed him in the Sea of Canterbury. He dieth. AVsten perceiving that this disagreement was likely to prove prejudicial to the state of the new Church, thought it the best and safest way, to prevent the inconvenience in the very beginning, and to that end he summoned a Synod, which (by the means of Ethelbert the Prince) he procured to be held upon the borders of the West- Saxons Country. At that Synod, seven British Bishops, certain Monks of Bangor (the greatest Monastery in the I'll, whereof Dinothus was then Abbot) and divers others well reputed for their learning and knowledge in divinity were present. It is reported, that the British Bishops (before their coming thither) asked counsel of an Anchorite (a wise and holy man) living there about, what he thought meetest for them to do in that great business which they had then in hand: and whether they should follow the advice and directions of Austen, or retain still their ancient Traditious: whereto it is said, that the Anchorite made this answer: If he be of God, follow him, and that shall you best discern by his humility: For Christ sayeth: Take upon you my yoke, and learn of me, for I am mild, and humble of heart: If therefore you perceive by his behaviour, that he is proud and high minded, then be ye well assured, that he is not of God. Hereupon, when they came to the place where the Synod was to be kept, and saw Austen sitting in a chair, but not saluting them at their first entrance, nor seeming by his outward gesture to respect them: they supposed the Anchorists speech to have been in part then verified, and with much impatiency, heard the Archbishops oration: wherein they were specially required to preserve the unity of the Christian faith, and (though they did many things contrary to the usage of the Roman Church,) yet to conform themselves thereto in three points, namely, in celebrating the feast of Easter in duetime, in exercising the ministry of Baptism, according to the manner of the Church of Rome: and in joining with him, and the rest of the English Bishops, in preaching the Gospel of Christ to the heathen of that Nation; which if they would faithfully perform, he promised, for avoiding contention, (a matter very dangerous, considering the present condition of the time) to tolerate the continuance of any other old rites and traditions, wherein they should dissent from the Church of Rome. But the Britan's (imagining, that he, who at his first coming, used them in that disdainful manner, would afterwards, being settled in a superintendency over them, utterly despise them) discovered plainly their discontentment by their countenances, and made a short answer; that they would neither observe those things which he required at their hands, nor acknowledge him for their Bishop: Whereto Austen with bitter words replied; that sith they would not receive peace when it was offered, they should ere long, feel the heavy hand of war and vengeance upon themselves and their posterity: and so the assembly was dissolved. Not long after, Austen the Archbishop (wearied with care and travail of mind) fell sick of a languishing disease: and doubting lest the state of the Church (being as yet green, and shaken with the blasts of schism and division) might easily miscarry for want of a Pastor: he thought good, while he lived, to provide for it, by appointing Laurence, a grave and learned Priest, to succeed him in the Sea of Canterbury: and having to that end elected him, and caused the election to be published, he departed this life. His body was buried in his own Monastery, within the Church, which Ethelbert had there erected, and an inscription in Latin, was set over the place of his burial, declaring his name, and quality, and the time, occasion, and success of his coming into the I'll of Britanny. CHAP. VI Ethelbert the Prince, provideth for the maintenance of religious persons. He ordaineth laws for civil government, publishing the same in the English tongue. Edbald his son succeed him in the Principality of the Kentish-Saxons. His Apostasy. Repentance. Death. IN the mean while, Ethelbert the Prince, (persisting with great devotion in the profession of the Christian faith) did move very many of his subjects to follow his example therein: and such persons (as professors of one faith with him) he used with special favour: the rest that refused to do the like, he would not compel, saying; that he had been taught, that The service of Christ must be voluntary, and not forced. And as he was very forward in advancing and supporting the State ecclesiastical, so he was not altogether careless of the civil government. For by advice of the wisest and best learned men of his Province, he made certain constitutions (after the manner of the Romans) and published them in the English tongue, to the end his people might understand them, and (by knowing the penalties imposed upon offences) more readily avoid the offences themselves. By these laws he provided first for the weal and safeguard of religious persons, ordaining restitution and severe punishment for such as by theft or violence, took away anything from Churches, Bishops, or Priests. For he thought it very meet, that he should, by all means, protect and prefer from worldly annoyance, such men as watched and prayed for the health & salvation of souls. And thus spending the rest of his time in the exercise of piety and all princely virtues, after he had prosperously reigned many years, he ended his days in peace. He had issue Edbald, who succeeded him in the government: and Ethelburga, married to Edwin, Prince of Northumber's. Edbald was (by his father's direction) trained up in the knowledge of the Christian faith, which (after he had obtained the Principality) he utterly renounced: being otherwise also defamed for diverse notorious and detestable vices, whereby the greater number of his subjects (following his example) returned again to idolatry, and ran headlong into all kinds of enormity: from which, (in his father's time) rather fear of temporal punishment, then love of virtue and religion, restrained them. Hereupon justus the Bishop of Rochester, and Melitus the Bishop of London, (perceiving this general defection in the Provinces, both of the Kentish and East-Saxons, by reason of Edbalds' Apostasy, and being unable, either to direct, or to oppose themselves against the stream of superstition, which suddenly broke in upon them) gave way to the time, and secretly fled into France, where they remained till Edbalds' conversion: Laurence the Archbishop also intended to have followed them, but that he was admonished by a vision, (as it is reported) that he should not forsake his flock. In the mean time, Edbald continuing his profane and vicious manner of living, fell at the last (through distemperature of mind) into a frenzy, being also possessed with an unclean spirit: When the Archbishop of Canterbury taking courage, (as in a good cause) repaired boldly unto him, & partly by admonition, partly by exhortation, prevailed so far with the Prince, as in the end he won him to approve and profess the truth of Christianity, from which by infidelity he had fallen: whereupon soon after ensued the recovery of his bodily health, which by many grievous infirmities, had been a long time much impaired. The remnant of his life, (after he was rebaptized) he spent in devotion and deeds of charity, to expiate and make satisfaction for his former impiety and Apostasy. CHAP. VII. Ercombert succeed Edbald in the Principality. The institution of Lent. Honorius the Archbishop of Canterbury divideth his Province into Parishes. Deusdedit succeed Honorius in the Sea of Canterbury. Egbert ruleth the Kentish-Saxons after the death of Ercombert. Theodorus the Archbishop of Canterbury expelleth Wilfrid out of the Sea of York. His learning in Divinity and Philosophy. His estimation in the Court of Rome. THen Ercombert his son, (by Emma the daughter of the King of France) a temperate and religious Prince, prosecuted the work which his father had begun, in re-establishing the Christian faith within his Dominions The idolatrous Priests he banished, razing their Temples to the ground, and erecting others for the service of the true God. The subjects of his Realm (being much inclined to excess in eating and drinking) he restrained, by commanding a public fast, during the space of forty days, to be yearly kept, for the better exercise of devotion; which custom continueth among the English even to this day. The Church of Canterbury was governed in his time by Honorius, who first (as it is reported) divided his Province into Parishes, and left his Sea to Deusdedit, the first Saxon Arch Bishop, (the former being strangers of other nations;) his own name was Frithona, which for his zealous inclination towards the advancement of the Church and Commonweal, was changed into Deusdedit, as the man whom God himself had specially given. After him, Wighard was elected, but died at Rome before his consecration. Ercombert the Prince, having peaceably ruled the Kentish Saxons about four and twenty years, ended his life when the continuance thereof was most desired. He had by Sexourga, (one of the daughters of Anna, Prince of the Eastangles) a son named Egbert, that succeeded him in the government. Egbert ruled the Kentish-Saxons with great moderation, and had not his hands been defiled with the innocent blood of Elbert and Egelbright, his cousin germane, he might worthily have been registered in the number of their best princes. In his time there lived Adrianus the Abbot, and Theodorus, (a Grecian born) than Archbishop of Canterbury, and the last of those that came out of Italy. They were men of special regard for their learning and holiness of life. This Theodorus began first of all others, to exercise his Pontifical authority over all Britanny, placing and displacing Bishops at his pleasure, consecrating (contrary to ordinances of the church of Rome) Bishops of other Seas in the City of York, and either by force or show of right, removing first Cedda, and afterwards Wilfrid, (who had been Bishops of that place) pretending, that the wealth and possessions of that Bishopric alone, were sufficient to maintain three Bishops, and that it was meet they should be divided accordingly: but whether he did it for the self same end that was pretended, or for envy at the glory and greatness of that Sea, I will not take upon me to censure. Howbeit, Wilfrid (being thus expelled, and his Sea dismembered) exhibited his complaint to Agatho, than Bishop of Rome; notwithstanding he sought thereby, rather to manifest his own innocency, then to accuse Theodorus. Whereupon, being in the end acquitted by judgement of the Court of Rome, he was remanded into his former seat, which yet he could not obtain, by reason that Egfrid, the Prince of Northumberland, refused to receive him, while Theodorus either openly opposed against his readmission, or cunningly underhand, laboured to impeach it: the reputation of this Archbishop, (as of a stout Prelate, and very well learned both in Philosophy and Divinity) being so great with the Church of Rome in those days, as she would not alter or make frustrate, what he indirectly had established; for further proof whereof, also may serve the very testimony of Agatho, the Bishop of Rome, who deferred the Session of the sixth Synod at Constantinople, (where the Bishops of all other Nations were assembled) upon expectation only of Theodorus his coming thither out of Britanny. CHAP. VIII. Lothar (by intrusion) succeed Egbert his brother in the government. The Westsaxons invade the Province of Kent. Cuthbert Archbishop of Canterbury, calleth a Synod for reformation of abuses in the Clergy. The succession of the Kentish Princes, from Lothar to Alrich. Kent is subdued, and annexed to the Principality of the Westsaxons. AFter Egbert, Lothar his brother usurped the government, which by right appertained to Edrick his Nephew, and (seeking by force, to keep and maintain what by wrongful intrusion he had gotten) was in the end (after many conflicts) wounded with a dart, whereof he died. Then Edrick, the son of Egbert recovered the Principality, which he possessed with little quiet, partly by reason of civil dissension among some of his own subjects, that aspired to the government, and partly, for that the Kentish Territory was then invaded by Moll, (the brother of Ceadwall, Prince of the Westsaxons) and diverse valiant Captains his associates, whom the Kentishmen, by casting fire upon their Tents, destroyed and consumed to ashes. Whereupon Ceadwall, to revenge his brother's death, hotly pursued the war in Kent, and expulsed Edrick the Prince, spoiling and burning Towns as he marched, and chase the inhabitants from place to place, with little or no resistance. By reason of these troubles, the Province remained certain years without a Governor, till Withered (the son of Egbert) purchasing peace with money, obtained the Regiment, although Swebherd at that time held part of the Province, either by usurpation, or composition. About this time Berctualdus governed the Sea of Canterbury, unto which Tatwinus succeeded: and after him Nothelmus, who was a special helper of venerable Bede, in furnishing him with notes and instructions for composing his story of the Church of England. After the death of Withered, his three sons, Edbert, Edelbert, & Alrich, ruled successively. During the reign of Edbert the Prince, Cuthbert was translated from the Sea of Hereford, to the archbishopric of Canterbury, where he sat about eighteen years. He was had in great reverence both of religious and secular men, in regard of his holiness of life, and zealous care for reforming abuses in the Clergy: For to that end he summoned a counsel of the Bishops and Prelates of the land, at which Ethelbert the Prince of the Mercians, with the most part of his Nobility were present. Alrich reigned many years, and fortunately defended his Dominions against the Mercians, till at the last, he was overthrown in battle by Offa their Prince, who in his own person invaded the Province of Kent. He died without issue, being the last Prince of the Kentish line, which was cut in sunder with the thread of his life. Then Edelbert, (surnamed Prens) usurping the State, made war upon the Mercians, by whom he was taken prisoner, and afterwards escaped, though (recovering his liberty) he could not recover his former dignity. Cuthred likewise assumed, for a time, the title of Prince, which he left to Balbred his son. But now the Provincial government of the Kentish-Saxons, (which had continued about 380. years) drawing on to his fatal period: Egbert the Westsaxon Prince, strongly assailed the chief places of defence, driving the Mercians out of the Province, and forcing Balbred also to abandon it; by which means, in the end, making a conquest of the whole Country, he united it to the Principality of the Westsaxons. ❧ The succession of the South-Saxon Princes. 1 ALla ruled about 24. years, Simen the two elder sons of Alla. Plening 2 Cissa the youngest son of Alla. 3 Edilwalch the first Christian Prince. 4 Aldin the last Prince of the South-Saxons. It is very likely that there were more Princes of the South-Saxons, though I find no certain report of any other than those above mentioned. ❧ The succession of Bishops in the Principality of the South-Saxons. Bishops of Selesey. 681 Wilfrid (expulsed from his Sea in Northumberland) sat 5. years. 686 Hedda (who was also at the same time Bishop of Winton) sat 19 years. 705 Daniel (who likewise held the Sea of Winton) sat 6. years. 711 Eadbertus 8. years. 719 Eolla 9 years. After the death of Eolla, the Sea was void about 5. years. 733 Sigga 28. years. 761 Alubertus 29. years. 790 Osa alias Bosa (who was Bishop of Selesey, in the time of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince) sat 27. years. The first CHAPTER. South-Saxons. The principality of the South-Saxons established by Ella. Cissa his youngest son succeed him therein. Edilwalch the first Christian Prince of the South-Saxons. ELLA the Saxon, was one of those Captains, which Hengist (upon pretence of aiding the Britan's against the Picts) had sent for out of Germany, while himself was making war in Kent. About the year of Grace 478 being well appointed for men, shipping, and other warlike provisions, he arrived on the coast of Sussex (with his three sons, Cimen, Plening, and Cissa:) and after many sharp encounters with the Britan's inhabiting those parts▪ was constrained (by reason of his ill success in the beginning) to send into Germany for new supplies, wherewith he besieged a An ancient City seated in that place, where Newenden in Kent now standeth. Andred-Cester (a place situated near a very great Forest) the chief and most defensible fortress in all the Southern parts, and (having by policy intercepted the British forces that came to relieve it) entered the City by assault, and put to the sword, all those that were within: the soldiers ransacking the houses for booty, murdering the inhabitants, and defacing the City itself, whereof Time hath left no other remembrance to this day, then only the name, and calamity of the place. After this great loss, the Britan's sought rather to provide for their own safety, by flying into the woods, (whence they might sally forth upon advantage, and retire themselves again) then by making open resistance, which oft-times procured apparent and irrecoverable danger. In the mean time, Ella began to erect a Provincial government over that part of the Isle (lying upon the sea southward (which at this day containeth the Counties of Surrey, and Sussex: though his successors by encroaching upon their neighbour Princes, extended it afterwards even to the Firth of Humber. After his death, his two elder sons Cimen, and Plening (being either slain in the field, or dead by course of nature) Cissa his youngest son was by general consent of the people of his own nation, received as Governor. The chief seat of his principality, was the City of Chichester, which he re-edified, and called by his own name. He also fortified the place now called Cissburie in Sussex by casting a trench about it for defence of the Province. What other things were done by him, as also by the rest of the South-Saxon Princes, the Writers of the occurrents of that age, have (for the most part) omitted, or Time itself hath unhappily bereft us of the knowledge of them. He ruled the South-Saxons very many years, and died naturally: leaving the government in peaceable estate to Edilwalch, who succeeded him therein. Edilwalch, by the earnest persuasion of Wulfhere (the religious Prince of the Mercians) was first moved to embrace the Christian faith: and Wulfhere himself) being his Godfather) did at the time of his baptism, give unto him the I'll of Wight, and another small Province in the West part of Britanny. CHAP. II. Variance between the Archbishops of Canterbury, and York. Wilfrid chief Bishop of the Northumber's, (expulsed from his own sea at York) flieth into Sussex, where he converteth the inhabitants to the Christian faith. He is courteously entertained by Edelwalch the Prince, who assigneth to him the I'll of Selesey for an Episcopal sea. The South-Saxons are brought under the obedience of the Westsaxon Princes. IN the mean time Wilfrid, chief Bishop of the North-humbers (being expulsed from his sea at York, by Theodorus the Archbi. of Canterbury, & openly disgraced by Egfrid, than Prince of Northumberland) appealed to the Court of Rome, from which he obtained a definitive sentence, for his justification, touching those matters wherewith he was charged, and also for his restitution and re-establishment in his Sea. But Egfrid the Prince refused to receive him, protesting against the sentence, as unduly procured: whereupon Wilfrid the Bishop fled secretly into Sussex, and preached the Christian faith to the South-Saxons, whose Prince named Edelwalch received him with great joy, assigning unto him for his Sea, the I'll of Selesey, where afterwards the foundation of a Monastery was laid. After the death of Egfrid Prince of the Northumber's, he was revoked, and restored to his former dignity, which yet he enjoyed not long without interruption. He was a man of great courage, as having been continually exercised with troubles, and worldly encumbrances, which do commonly deject and oppress such as yield thereunto, but do engender constancy or obduracy in such as encounter and oppose them. The authority of the Sea of Rome he was ever stiffly bend to maintain. The custom of celebrating the feast of Easter after the Roman manner he diligently taught and defended in public disputation against the Bishops of Scotland, who observed the usage of the East Churches, according to the tradition of the jews. It is reported of him, that while he remained in the Province of the South-Saxons, he instructed the rude poor people, (dwelling upon the Sea coasts) in the art of fishing with Nets, and gins, by which means they were relieved in the time of famine, wherewith the Country was then much afflicted. The province enjoyed a long time of prosperity under this Christian Prince, till in the end it was assailed by Ceadwall, a man of great power and courage (descended from the race of the Westsaxon Princes) who being banished from his own Country, attempted by force to have expulsed Edelwalch: and finally (after many conflicts) slew him in battle. Howbeit (the greatest number of his own forces being spent in that war) he was afterwards constrained to abandon the Province (which Aldin then governed) till afterwards obtaining the Westsaxon Principality, he assayed the recovery of it again, and in the end, by conquest, annexed it to that government, when it had remained (about three hundred years) under the obedience of the South-Saxon Princes. The succession of the Mercian Princes. 1 Creda, the first Prince of the Mercians, ruled about ten years. 2 Wibba (the son of Creda,) twenty years. 3 Ceorla (the son of Wibba) ten years. 4 Penda (surnamed the Stout) the son of Wibba, thirty years. 5 Peda, the son of Penda, the first christian Prince. 6 Oswin. 7 Wulfere, the brother of Peda. 8 Ethelred, the brother of Wulfhere. 9 Kindred, the son of Wulfhere. 10 Celred, the son of Ethelred. 11 Ethelbald. 12 Bartered. 13 Offa, the nephew of Ethelbald. 14 Ecfrid, the son of Offa. 15 Kenulph, nephew to Penda in the fifth degree. 16 Kenelm, a child of seven years (the son of Ecfrid) murdered by his own sister, and reputed a Martyr. 17 Ceolwulph, brother to Kenulph. 18 Bernulph, defeated by Egbert Prince of the Westsaxons. ❧ The succession of Bishops in the Principality of the Mercians, till the reign of Egbert the first English Monarch. Bishops of Lichfield, and Chester. 656 Diuma, (the first Bishop of the Mercians) sat two years. 658 Cella, two years. 660 Trumherus, five years. 665 jarumannus, four years. 669 Cedda, (removed from the Sea of York) three years. 672 Winfridus, four years. 676 Sexulphus, sixteen years. 692 Hedda, twentiefoure years. 716 Aldwinus, twenty one years. 737 Witta, fourteen years. 751 Hemetus, thirteen years. 764 Cuthfridus, nine years. 773 Bertunus, seven years. 780 Higbertus, ten years. 790 Aldulfus, (in the time of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince) twenty four years. Bishops of Lindisferne, now called Holy-Iland. 678 Edhedus, sat one year. 679 Aethelwinus, twenty two years. 701 Edgarus, nineteen years. 720 Kenebertus, thirteen years. 733 Alwich, eighteen years. 751 Aldulphus, sixteen years. 767 Ceolwulfus, seventeen years. 784 Vnwona, two years. 786 Ealdulphus, (after whose death the Sea was void certain years) lived about the time of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince. Bishops of Hereford, 680 Putta sat eleven years. 691 Tirthelus, twelve years. 703 Tortherus, fifteen years. 718 Walstodus, eighteen years. 736 Cuthbertus, five years. 741 Podda, five years. 746 Ecca, six years. 752 Cedda, six years. 758 Aldbertus, eleven years. 769 Esna six years. 775 Ceolmundus, eight years. 783 Vtellus, five years. 788 Wulfhardus (in the time of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince) twenty one years. Bishops of Worcester. 688 Boselus, sat twelve years. 692 Ostforus, one year. 693 Egwinus, twenty four years. 717 Wilfridus, twenty seven years. 744 Mildredus, thirty two years. 776 Weremundus, three years. 779 Wolberus, two years. 782 Eathoredus, seven years. 789 Denebertus, (in the time of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince) thirty three years. Bishops of the Middle-English, whose Sea was at Leycester. 692 Wilfrid, (expulsed from his province of Northumberland) sat ten years; after whose departure the Sea of Leycester was governed by the Bishops of Lichfield, until the time of Totta. 737 Totta, twenty seven years. 764 Edbertus, (in the time of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince) forty three years. CHAP. I. The Mercians. The principality of the Mercians, erected by Creda the Saxon. Penda persecuteth the Christians in his Province. Peda succeed Penda his father in the government. He marrieth the daughter of Oswin Prince of the Northumber's, and receiveth the Christian faith. THe middle part of the I'll of Britanny (containing at this day the Counties of Gloucester, Hereford, Worcester, Salop, Chester, Stafford, bath, Warwick, Leycester, Rutland, Nottingham, Northampton, Lincoln, Huntingdon, Bedford, Buckingham, Oxenford, and part of the County of Hertford) was in ancient time possessed by the Angles, whom the inhabitants of the bordering Provinces round about did then call Mercians. It was in circuit of ground much larger than either of the other principalities, being at the first divided into three parts, according to the several situations, namely the East, West, and Middle Mercia. The first Prince of the Mercians was Creda, who about the year of Grace 586. (either by his own force, or by the assistance of such Princes of his own nation, as were already established in government) expelling the Britan's, obtained the principality. After him Wibba his son: then Ceorla, and Penda, the sons of Wibba, ruled successively. Penda was a Prince of a haughty spirit, and a great persecuter of the Christians: he made continual incursions upon the borders of his neighbour Princes, exercising all kind of cruelty where he vanquished. Sebert, Egricke, and Ana, three Religious Princes of the Eastangles, were by him overthrown. The Princes of Northumberland, Edwin, and Oswold, he slew in several battles. Oswin the successor of Oswald, after many assaults, offering his richest jewels, and a great sum of money, to redeem his peace, could not procure it. For Penda▪ had made a solemn vow, that he would never give over the war, till he had rooted out the whole Nation of the Northumber's. Heruepon Oswin perceiving himself unable to make resistance against so powerful an enemy, prayed to God for help, protesting, that, if he obtained the victory against the Mercians, his daughter Alfrid, should be consecrated to serve him in perpetual virginity: and a great quantity of land should be assigned for the erection and maintenance of Monasteries: both which (the success answering his desire) he afterwards performed. Peda the eldest son of Penda (in the life of his father) possessed that part of the Province, which was called Middle-Mercia. He married the daughter of Oswin, Prince of the Northumber's, upon condition that he should receive the christian faith:) whereupon he was baptized by Finan the Bishop of a Holy-Iland Lindisfarn in the Province of the Northumber's: and at his return into Mercia, brought with him certain Priests to instruct; and baptize his people, which Penda himself was contented to tolerate, either for the affection which he bore unto Peda his son, or else for that he could not but approve the conversation of such as taught Subjects to be humble, charitable, and obedient to their superiors: by reason whereof, he exercised less cruelty against the professors of Christianity, then in former times he had accustomed: pursuing only such persons, as bearing the name of Christians, lived dishonestly, and irreligiously, alleging that they, who neglected the service of that God, in whom alone they professed themselves to believe, were very wretches, and worthy of all kinds of punishment. CHAP. II. Oswin Prince of the Northumber's ruleth the Mercians, after the death of Peda, till he is deposed by Wulfere, the brother of Peda. Lichfield is made a Bishop's Sea, for the Province of the Mercians. Chad is Bishop of that place. Wulfere is christened. Ethelred his brother succeed him in the Principality. He foundeth a Bishop's Sea at Worcester. He resigneth his government, and goeth to Rome, where both himself, and Kindred his nephew, take upon them the habit of religion. Celred his son succeed him. PEnda being slain in battle, and Peda his son made away by the treachery of his wife, Oswin alone possessed the government, having at that time also the sovereignty over the South-Saxons. The Picts, that forreyed the borders of his Province, he in short time reduced to obedience. Then he provided for establishment both of the Civil and Ecclesiastical state, advancing the one by execution of justice, and augmenting the other by large Donations to Religious houses. He founded the church of Lichfield, which he made the Bishop's Sea for the province of Mercia. Dwina a Scottish man, Bishop of Holy-Iland, was made Bishop also of that Province (the number of Priests being then so small, that one man had the charge of two bishoprics.) The fifth Bishop in succession from Dwina was Cedda; a man much reverenced for his holiness of life, and after his death, commonly called Saint Chad. But the Mercians desirous to advance Wulfere the brother of Peda to the government, conspired against Oswin, and expulsed him by force out of the Province, which afterwards Wulfere peaceably enjoyed. Wulfere in the beginning of his reign, was a persecuter of the Christian faith. His two sons (that went to Bishop Chad, to be instructed therein) he unnaturally slew with his own hands: their dead bodies were by Ermenheld the Queen their mother, buried in a Sepulchre of stone, where afterwards a Church was erected; the place, by reason of the multitude of stones that were brought thither upon devotion by the common people, gave the name unto the town, which is at this day called Stone (in the County of Stafford.) But Wulfere after his conversion to the Christian faith, endeavoured (as he thought) to wipe away the guilt of that bloody offence, with the tears of repentance and satisfactory works of charity, in erecting Churches, and devoting the rest of his life to the service of God: whose example therein, Ermenheld his wife did follow after his death, sequestering herself from the world, and taking upon her the veil in the Nunnery at Ely, where Sexburga her mother was Abbess. Ethelred succeeding Wulfere his brother procured a Bishop's Sea to be established at Worcester: Of that place Bosellus was the first Bishop. In his time divers religious houses were erected, as the Monastery of Euesham, (then called Hothe-Holme) founded by Egwinus the second Bishop of Worcester: the priory of Teuksburie by Odo and Dodo: the Monastery of Gloucester by Osreck Bishop of Gloucester, and diverse others. The King himself having reigned about thirty years, became a Monk at Bardony, in the County of Lincoln: and Kindred the son of Wulfere, (his Nephew) having enjoyed the government five years, went to Rome, where he took upon him the habit of religion. Celred, the son of Ethelred, (succeeding him) showed great courage in his wars against Ina the Westsaxon Prince, but died before he could finish it. CHAP. III. Ethelbald succeed Celred in the government. He is reproved by Bonifacius an Englishman, (Bishop of Vtricht in Holland) for his lascivious life. His Repentance. He erecteth the Monastery of Crowland. He is slain in battle. EThelbald, the successor of Celred, was a professor of Christian religion, though much addicted to wantonness and sensual pleasures, for which he was sharply reproved by Bonifacius an Englishman, (than Bishop of Vtricht in Holland, and afterwards Archbishop of a Mentz. Mogunce in Germany) who wrote unto him, how fowl and dishonourable a thing it was, that he, which reigned over so many Nations, should himself be the bondslave of fleshly lust: signifying withal, that those offences of impurity which he committed, were punished even among the heathen with death and cruel torments: that by his ill example, he corrupted his subjects: that God himself for those vices, had plagued many Princes, both in their own persons, and in their posterity: and finally, that the pleasures of this life, are but short and vain, and the pains ordained for sin, intolerable and eternal. He likewise admonished Cuthbert, Archbishop of Canterbury, that he should cause the light habits of Priests and Nuns, (who fashioned themselves too much after the secular guise) to be reform. But Ethelbald being stricken with compunction of heart, for the lascivious follies of his youth, sought by all good means to prevent those dangers; into which, through security and continuance in sin, he doubted that he might irrecoverably have fallen: and first, by the advice of his Clergy and temporal Nobility, he ordained; that all the Churches within his Dominions, should be discharged of tribute, and freed from all burdens and labours, excepting only such as were to be undertaken for the necessary building of Towers, Castles, and Bridges, for the defence and general good of the Province; in which case, none were to be exempted: and that persons professed in religion, should enjoy the profits of their lands entirely, and not be constrained to make any other payments out of the same unto the Prince. About that time also, Cuthbert Archbishop of Canterbury, by the advice of Bonifacius, the Archbishop of Mogunce, made certain constitutions for the government of the Clergy, under his jurisdiction: by which (amongst other things) it was ordered, that the holy Scriptures should be usually read in Monasteries: that Priests should be no buyers nor sellers of worldly commodities: that they should receive no rewards for administering the Sacraments: that there should be an uniformity among them in the observation of Ecclesiastical ceremonies: that they should both learn themselves, and teach others the Lords prayer, & the articles of the Christian faith in the English tongue, and that none should be admitted to holy Orders, but such persons, whose conversation and manner of living was first examined and approved. In the mean time, Ethelbald the Prince (partly of his own religious inclination, and being partly moved by the examples of his predecessors) caused a great and goodly Monastery to be erected at Crowland in the County of Lincoln, where, for that the ground was fenny, and unable to support the weight of a stone building, many huge piles of Oak were driven into the Marish, and hard earth (brought thither about nine miles by water) was rammed in with the piles, whereupon the foundation of the Church was laid: such was the zeal of Princes in those days, as they could level Mountains, convert fenny bogs into firm land, and alter, in a manner, the very course of nature: no cost seeming too much, no labour too great, nor any thing impossible that they had a will to effect. When he had reigned above forty years, Cuthred the Westsaxon Prince, invaded the territory of the Mercians: during the continuance of which wars, Ethelbald was slain by Bartered (a person notorions for his cruelty) and was afterwards buried in the famous Monastery of Rippon: howbeit Bartered soon lost that which he had ill gotten: for he was also slain by Offa the Nephew of Ethelbald, who succeeded him in the government. CHAP. FOUR The Mercians. Offa ruleth the Mercians. He foundeth the Monastery of Saint Alban. He maketh a ditch to divide the Territories of the English and Walshmen. Kenelmus the Martyr. The Catalogue of the Mercian Princes, from Offa, until the Westsaxons obtained their Principality. OFfa was a warlike Prince, and for the most part fortunate. Kineulph the Westsaxon Prince he overthrew in a setbattaile: and Ethelbert Prince of the Eastangles, he surprised under colour of friendship, and after his death, usurped that Province. Howsoever ambition and desire of glory, transported him beyond the limits of his own Principality: yet was he a great benefactor to the Church: for he erected a fair Monastery in the honour of Saint Alban, near the Town that now beareth the Martyr's name, and richly endowed it by his Charter; He founded also the Abbey of bath: the Archiepiscopall Sea, he translated from Canterbury to Lichfield, (the chief seat of the Mercian government,) where it continued but a short time. Between Wales and the borders of his Province he caused a ditch to be made for defence against the incursions of the Britan's, whom the Saxons then called Walsh, which in their language signifieth (stranger.) Elfrid his son succeeding him, reigned but one year. Then Kenulph (descended from Penda the Tyrant) obtained the regiment. He assailed the territory of the Kentish-Saxons, and took prisoner Egbert their Prince, whom afterwards he freely delivered, upon the self same day that he dedicated the Church at Winchelcombe, whereof he was the founder: adding that special Act of clemency to the other exercises of prayer and fasting, then ordinarily used at such dedications. In the City of Hereford also, he founded a Church which he consecrated to Saint Ethelbert. Kenelm, son of Ecfrid, being about the age of seven years was slain by Quinda his own sister, that aspired to the government, and dying innocently, was afterwards reputed a Martyr. Then Ceolworth the brother of Kenulph, having reigned but one year, was expulsed the Principality, by Bernulph: and Bernulph himself, (after three years) defeated by Egbert the Westsaxon Prince. Then Lucan defending himself against the Westsaxons, was assailed, and overthrown by the Eastangles. Withlasm for a time withstood the Westsaxons, but in the end submitted himself to their subjection, which he acknowledged by the payment of a yearly Tribute. After his death, Berthulf possessed the principality, with like conditions, till being assailed by the Pirates of Denmark, he was constrained for safeguard of his life, to abandon the Country. Burdred succeeded Berthulf, both in estate and fortunes: for being chased out of Mercia by the Danes, he fled to Rome, where he died. Then was some part of the principality assigned by the Danes to Ceolwolph, who held it of them by homage: till Alfred the nephew of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince, entered the Province with an army, and expulsing both Ceolwolph and the Danes, reduced it under the obedience of the Westsaxons. ❧ The succession of the East-Saxon Princes. 1 Erchenwin held the province of the East-Saxons, as feodatarie to the Princes of Kent. 2 Sledda, the son of Erchenwin. 3 Sebert, the son of Sledda, the first Christian Prince. the sons of Sebert ruled jointly. Serred, Seward, Sigbert, 4 Sigebert, (surnamed the Little) the son of Seward. 5 Sigbert, the son of Sigebald, (brother of Sebert.) 6 Sigher. 7 Sebbi. 8 Sigeherd, the son of Sebbi. 9 Seofride, the brother of Sigeherd. 10 Offa, the son of Sigeherd. 11 Celred. 12 Suthred, defeated by Egbert, Prince of the Westsaxons. ❧ The succession of the Bishops of London in the Province of the East-Saxons. 604 Melitus, the first Bishop (sent from Rome) sat thirteen years, after whose translation, the Sea was void about forty years. 658 Cedda, eight years. 666 Wina, (translated from the Sea of Winton) 9 years. 675 Erkenwaldus, twenty two years. 697 Waldherus, eighteen years. 715 Ingualdus, thirty one years. 746 Egwulfus, eight years. 754 Wighedus, seven years. 761 Eadbrichtus, eleven years. 775 Deora, nine years. 784 Eadbaldus, eleven years. 795 Heathobertus, (in the time of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince) eighteen years. The first CHAPTER. East-Saxons. The principality of the East-Saxons, erected by Erchenwin. Sebert the first Christian Prince. Miletus the first Bishop of the East-Saxons, hath his Sea at London. Saint Paul's church there founded by Ethelbert (the first Christian Prince of the Kentish-Saxons.) The Church at Westminster founded by Sebert. Cedda (afterward called St. Chad) preacheth the Gospel to the East-Saxons. Sigher and Sebbi, jointly rule the Province. ERchenwin was the first of all the Saxons, that erected a Provincial government among the East-Saxons, who then inhabited those parts, which now contain the Counties of Essex, Middlesex, and part of the County of Hartford: all which, both himself and his successors many years together held by homage of the Kentish Princes, as of their superior Lords. This Prince having reigned a long time (with what success, I find no certain report,) left the government to Sledda his son, who, to strengthen his estate by affinity, married Ricula, the daughter of Ermerick the Prince of Kent, by whom he had issue Sebert that succeeded him. Sebert governed peaceably the Province of the East-Saxons, which in his time was converted to Christianity: for in the year of Grace 604. Miletus was sent by Augustin the Archbish. to preach the faith of Christ to that people, and had the City of London assigned to him for his Episcopal Sea, where Ethelbert the Kentish Prince erected a Church, which he dedicated to Saint Paul, endowing it with large possessions: and Sebert (following his example therein) founded an other at the West end of the city, where afterwards, a Monastery was builded: The place at that time (being environed with water, and overgrowen with thorns) was called Thorney, and afterwards (by reason of the situation thereof) the West-Minster. It is reported that in more ancient times there had been a Temple of Apollo, which being overthrown by an Earthquake, Lucius the first Christian Prince of the Britan's, re-edified and converted to a Church for the exercise of the Christian Religion. Sebert (having spent the most part of his time after his conversion) in deeds of Charity and Devotion, ended his life, and was buried in that Church, together with his wife Ethelgoda. Serred, Seward, and Sigbert his sons, ruled jointly the province of the East-Saxons. They were all men of disordered conversation, and open despisers of religious rites: for, being not yet baptized, they would have received the Sacrament of Christ's body: wherein, for that Miletus the Bishop had opposed himself against them, they expelled him from his Sea at London, and themselves soon after were by Kinegles the Westsaxon Prince, deprived both of government, and life. Sigebert, surnamed the Little, the son of Seward, succeeded in the principality, which in short time he left to Sigbert, (the nephew of Sebert (the first Christian Prince of the East-Saxons:) Sigbert was by persuasion of Oswin chief governor of the Northumber's, converted from Paganism to Christianity, wherein he was confirmed, by Cedda, a devout learned man, that then preached to the East-Saxons, and recovered many of them, which (after the expulsion of Miletus) had fallen from the faith. He was afterwards by Finan (the Bishop of Holy-Iland) consecrated bishop of the East-Saxons: amongst whom, he preached the Gospel of Christ without interruption, till such time as Sigbert the Prince, (procoring the dislike of his Subjects, for that he showed too much clemency to the Mercians his enemies) was treacherously murdered by one of his own kindred. After his death, Swidhelin, the son of Sexbald, obtained the regiment, and was baptized by Cedda the Bishop. Then Sigher & Sebbi ruled together, but not with absolute authority, for at that time they acknowledged allegiance to Wulfere Prince of the Mercians. In those days great plague and mortality fell upon the Inhabitants of the Province, and Sigher (renouncing the faith) fell to Idolatry, which in a short time greatly increased, till jarumanus the Bishop of Lichfield, and certain priests (being sent thither by Wulfere to that end) laboured with all diligence to stop the course thereof, and in the end suppressed it. CHAP. II. The Devotion, Chastity, and Chiritie, of Sebbi the Prince. The manner of his death. Offa resigneth the government, and goeth to Rome, where he entereth into Religion. Egbert the Westsaxon Prince, obtaineth the principality of the East-Saxons. IN the mean time Sebbi, and the people under his obedience, (notwithstanding the relapse of their Countrymen) persisted constantly in the faith of Christ: and Sebbi himself by praying, fasting, and Alms cedes, East-Saxons. manifested his own earnest desire to maintain the same: being so strongly possessed with the spirit of zeal, and love of Chastity, as he persuaded his wife to a separation, whereby they might serve God with more purity of heart: and his piety and humility was had in such estimation, even among the religious persons, as they reputed him more meet to have been a Priest, than a Prince. After he had (with much difficulty obtained his wife's consent for a separation) he bestowed the greatest part of his worldly wealth upon the poor: reserving nothing for himself (besides his necessary maintenance) but only the expectation of a future recompense. In his time lived Erkenwald a godly Priest, who was afterward Bishop of London. He founded two Monasteries, the one for himself, at Chartsey in Surrey, and the other for Ethelburga his sister at Barking in Essex. Sebbi having ruled about thirty years, fell sick of a grievous and very painful disease; by reason whereof, doubting lest through frailty of the flesh, he might burst out into any intemperate speeches, or do any other thing unseemly for his person & profession, he desired Waldher the successor of Erkenwald, (than Bishop of London) by prayers and ghostly counsel to assist him in his agonies, and that no more than himself, and two of his Chaplains only might be present at the time of his departure: so great a care had this religious Prince in well finishing that race, which he had prosperously continued the most part of his life: and in preventing all occasions of scandal to the faith which he professed. His body was buried in the church of Saint Paul in London, and then Sigeherd, and Seofrid his two sons, successively ruled the Province of the East-Saxons. After them it was governed by Offa, the son of Sigeherd, who married Geneswede the daughter of Penda Prince of the Mercians. The possessions belonging to the Church of Westminster, he greatly augmented, and (resigning the government to Celred) went to Rome, where he ended his life in a Religious house. Celred succeeded Offa, maintaining the state of the Province in peace, till in the end he was slain: but in what manner, or by whom, I find no mention. Then Suthred (either by right of succession, or by election) obtained the government, which he enjoyed but a short time; for Egbert the Westsaxon Prince, invaded at one time the Provinces both of the East and Kentish Saxons, and in the end brought them under his subjection: albeit the City of London remained under obedience of the Princes of Mercia, so long as that principality continued. The succession of the Princes of the Eastangles. 1 Vffa. 2 Titill. 3 Redwald, an Apostatae. 4 Carpenwald, the son of Redwald. 5 Sebert, the brother of Carpenwald. 6 Egrick the kinsman of Sebert. 7 Ana. 8 Athelhere, the brother of Ana. 9 Adelwald. the sons of Athelhere, ruled jointly. Aldulph, Elohwold, Hisberna, 10 Ethelbert. 1. 11 Ethelbert 2. 12 Offa. 13 S. Edmund. ❧ The succession of Bishops in the Principality of the Eastangles. 636 Faelix a Burgundian Bishop of Dunwich, sat twelve years. 648 Thomas (his Deacon) five years. 653 Bonifacius, alias Birtgilsus, seventeen years. 670 Bisi. After Bisi, the bishopric was divided into two Seas. ¶ Dunwich. ¶ North-Elmeham. 671 Aecca, twenty three years. Beadwinus. 696 Aesculfus, twenty four years. Northbertus. 720 Eadberctus, sixteen years. Heatholacus. 736 Cuthwinus, eleven years. Eahelfridus. 747 Aldbertus, four years. Lamfertus. 771 Eglafus, eight years. Athelwulfus. 779 Eadredus, six years. Hunfertus. 785 Althunus, three years. Sibba. 788 Titfridus, twenty years. Alherdus. CHAP. I. Eastangles. The Principality of the Eastangles erected by Vffa. Faelix a Burgundian, preacheth the faith to the Eastangles. His Episcopal sea at Dunwich in Suffolk. Sebert the first Christian Prince, resigneth his government to Egrick, and entreth-into a Monastery, from whence he is drawn forth by his subjects, when the Mercians invade his Province. He is slain in battle with Egrick, whom Ana succeed in the government. THe Counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridge, with the I'll of Ely, were the ancient habitations of the Eastangles; among whom, Vffa (about the year of Grace 492.) established a principality, which he left unto Titil, of whom little or nothing is recorded, save only the name and title. Then Redwald succeeding him, entered into league with Edwin, advancing him to the government of the Northumber's, after the death of Edelfrid their Prince, whom Redwald had slain in battle. He was afterwards (by the exhortation of Edwin the Prince,) converted to Christianity, from which he was within a short time withdrawn by his wi●es persuasion, though Dorwald one of his sons persevering therein, was cruelly murdered by Rochbert a Pagan: and Carpenwald his other son (succeeding his father in the government) participated with his brother in his fortune; for he was slain by the same man, and in the same manner. Then Sebert his brother obtained the government. During the reign of Carpenwald, he lived as a banished man in France, where he was first instructed in the Christian Religion. In his time, Foelix the Burgundian came into Britanny, and made suit to Honorius the Archbishop of Canterbury, that he might be licenced to preach the Gospel to the Eastangles: whereto the Archbishop (approving his zealous intention) willingly assented; and so the Christian faith within few years was dispersed throughout the Province, by the diligence and labour of Foelix, whom the inhabitants reverenced as a man, that (being himself happy both in name and condition) had power also to make others happy. He was made Bishop of Dunwich in Suffolk, which being then but a small town, became afterwards very rich and populous, and was governed according to the manner of the ancient and best Cities. Many religious houses (the fruits of devotion in that age) were at sundry times erected in the place. There was also a Mint wherein a certain coin (with the inscription of the name of the City) was stamped. But time hath worn out in a manner the remembrance of these things at this day, and the sea hath devoured the greatest part of the building. It continued an entire Bishop's Sea, but a while; for Bisi (the fourth Bishop in succession from Foelix) divided it into two Bishoprics: the one of Dunwich, the other of Holinham. In the mean time Sebert, (imitating the example of the Kentish Saxons) provided means, that the children born within his Dominions, might be trained up in learning, and religion, erecting Schools, and allowing stipends for the maintenance of Teachers. He was also a great benefactor to Hospitals, and Religious houses, and in the end (resigning the government to Egrick his kinsman) he entered into a Monastery, (whereof himself had been the founder) and there remained peaceably, till (by the treacherous practice of Athelhere, one of his nobility) Penda the Mercian Prince, with an army of Pagans, invaded his Province; for than was he forcibly drawn thence by his own subjects, who (finding themselves too weak to resist their enemies) brought Sebert himself into the field: supposing, perhaps, that his personal presence would encourage his people to fight with more resolution: but in that battle, the Eastangles were overthrown, and both Sebert and Egrick his cousin slain. The like success in the self same manner befell Ana, who succeeded Egrick in the Principality. CHAP. II. Athelhere the brother of Ana, ruleth the Eastangles. He is slain by Oswin, Prince of the Northumber's. S. Ethelbert is murdered by Offa, Prince of the Mercians. Offa having made a voyage into the Holy-Iland, dieth in his return homewards. Edmund succeed Offa in the government. The Martyrdom of S. Edmund by the Pagan Danes. The Monastery of S. Edmund's. bury in Suffolk erected. The Principality of the Eastangles annexed to that of the Westsaxons. THen Athelhere the brother to Ana, assumed the government, but preventing his time in the getting of it, he lost it again ere he was fully soled: for, as by combining with Penda the Pagan 〈◊〉 had been a means to hasten the death of his 〈◊〉, he and kinsman: Eastangles. so his own blood (together with Pendaes') was soon after shed by Oswin, Prince of the Northumber's. Adelwald his brother with little better fortune succeeded him, leaving the Principality to Aldulf, Elohwold & Hisberna, (the sons of his brother Athelhere,) who by civil dissension, (supplanting one another) made way for Ethelbert to attain the government. Ethelbert by his wife Laonorine, had a son of his own name that succeeded him. Ethelbert the second, was a Prince much renowned for learning and piety. He governed the Province with great wisdom and prosperous success, till by the perfidious dealing of Offa, the Mercian Prince, he was shamefully murdered. For being betrothed to Alfride, the daughter of Offa, (who ambitiously affected the Principality of the Eastangles) he was under colour of friendship, invited to a feast, where Offa (by the persuasion of his wife) commanded his head to be cut off, and his body to be buried in the bank of a river. By this dishonourable act, the Mercians obtained the Province. But Offa, being afterwards touched with sorrow and compunction of heart for committing it, caused Ethelberts body to be taken up, and to be conveyed to the City of Hereford, (not far from the place where he was slain) and there to be very solemnly interred: supposing thereby to expiate in part, the guilt of his former offence: Afterwards a Church was there built, and dedicated to Ethelbert by the name of a Saint. Then Offa undertook a voyage to the Holy-land, and passing through Saxony, was there received with great joy by Alkemond the King his kinsman, and Syware his wife: at that time he adopted Edmund, the son of Alkemond, to be his heir, and to succeed him in the Principality of the Eastangles, which did soon after fall unto him; for Offa in his return from the Holy-land, ended his life at Port St. George: whereupon Edmund speedily repaired into Britanny, where he was received by the Eastangles, as their Prince. In his time Hinguar & Hubba, the two Danish Pirates, invaded Northumberland; and Hinguar having enriched himself with the spoils of that Country, sailed towards the coast of the Eastangles, where (afterwards landing) he surprised their chief City, consuming it by fire. The Citizens also, without respect of age or sect, he cruelly murdered, and in the end, took Edmund the Prince, whom first the Pagan Danes persuaded to renounce the profession of Christianity. But when they could neither by promises of assurance of life and safety, nor by threats and terror of death, prevail with him therein, they beat him with staves, scourged him with whips, and used him with all kinds of barbarous in civility and cruelty, which the religious Prince with great meekness and patience, endured cheerfully, calling upon the name of jesus, as rejoicing for his sake, to suffer those torments and indignities. The Pagans seeing his great constancy and courage, were transported with fury, and at the last, wounded him with their shafts, which they shot at him, till his body was covered over with them. The● they cut off his head and cast it into a bush. His body (being afterwards found) was interred at Bury in folk, where a goodly Monastery was erected and ●●●dicated to him, (the ruins thereof remaining yet to this day.) After his death, the Principality of the Eastangles was possessed by the Danes about 50. years, till Edward (the son of Etheldred) the Westsaxon Prince expulsing them, annexed both that Province & the country of the East-Saxons, (adjoining to it) unto his own government. ❧ The succession of the Princes of the Northumber's. 1 Ida. 2 Alla. 3 Ethelrick the younger son of Ida. 4 Ethelfrid the brother of Ethelrick. 5 Edwin the first Christian Prince. 6 Osric. 7 Eanfrid. 8 Oswald (the Martyr) brother of Eanfrid. 9 Oswin the brother of Oswald the Martyr. 10 Adilwald the son of Oswald the Martyr. 11 Egfrid the son of Adilwald. 12 Alfred the bastard son of Oswin. 13 Osred the son of Alfred. 14 Osric. 15 Kenred. 16 Ceolnulph. 17 Egbert. 18 Oswolf. 19 Moll. 20 Alered. 21 Etheldred. 22 Aelfwold. 23 Osred. ❧ The succession of Bishops in the Principality of the Northumber's. Archbishops of York. 625 Paulinus sat nine years. 666 Cedda three years. 669 Wilfrid nine years. 678 Bosa nine years. 687 Wilfrid (restored) four years. 691 Bosa fourteen years. 705 joannes sixteen years. 721 Wilfridus two years. 738 Egbertus nine and twenty years. 767 Ethelbertus thirteen years. 780 Eanbaldus 1. sixteen years. 796 Eanbaldus 2. sixteen years. Bishops of Lindisfarn (Holy-Iland.) 635 Aidanus sat seventeen years. 652 Finanus nine years. 661 Colmannus three years. 664 Tuda two years. 666 Cedda three years. 669 Wilfridus nine years. 678 Eata five years. 685 Cuthbertus two years. 687 Wilfridus (restored) one year. 688 Eadbertus ten years. 698 Eadfridus twenty three years. 721 Aethelwoldus nineteen years. 740 Kinewulfus thirty nine years. 779 Higbaldus twenty four years. Bishops of Haugustald (Hexham.) 678 Eata sat two years. 680 Tumbertus five years. 686 joannes one year. 687 Wilfridus four years. 691 joannes (after Wilfrids' expulsion.) 705 Wilfrid (restored) four years. 709 Acca thirty years. 739 Frithebertus twenty seven years. 766 Alhmundus fourteen years. 780 Tilherus nine years. 789 Aethelbertus eight years. 797 Heardredus three years. 800 Heanbertus ten years. Bishops of Whit-hern in Scotland. 723 Pethelmus sat thirteen years. 736 Frithewaldus twenty seven years. 763 Pechtwinus fourteen years. 777 Aethelbertus thirteen years. 790 Beadwulfus. CHAP. I. The Northumber's. The Principality of the Northumber's divided into two Provinces, namely Deira and Bernitia, which are united by Ethelrick. Ethelfrid defeateth the Britan's, and killeth the Monks of Bangor. Edwin the first Christian Prince. Paulinus preacheth the faith to the Northumber's, and hath a Sea assigned him at York. The death of Edwin. THe Principality of the Northumber's, extended northward, over all that part of the land, which at this day containeth the Counties of Lancaster, York, Durham, Cumberland, Westmoreland and Northumberland: all which were possessed by the Angles, and divided into two Regiments, whereof the one was called Deira, and the other Bernitia. Bernitia was bounded with the river Tyne and Edinburgh Firth: and Deira with the Tyne and Humber. When Hengist was settled in the possession of the Kentish government, he sent Octa his brother, and Ebusa his son, to undertake the conquest of those parts, which with very much difficulty they obtained. The Province afterwards, (during the space of ninety and nine years) was governed by certain Dukes or Captains, who held the same by homage of the Kentish-Saxons. About the year of grace 547. Ida erected a Principality in Deira, and Alla his kinsman succeeded him therein: for at that time, Adda the eldest son of Ida, ruled the Bernicians. Alla governed Deira many years: but little mention is made of him, save only that in his time, the English Nation was first made known to Gregory, then archdeacon of the Sea Apostolic, who (being afterwards Bishop of Rome) sent Augustin the Monk into Britanny, to preach the Gospel of Christ unto the inhabitants there. Ethelrick, the younger son of Ida, succeeded Alla in the government of Deira: and in short time adjoined thereto, the Province of Bernicia: making of them both, one entire Principality, which he left to Ethelfrid his brother. Ethelfrid was a valiant and victorious Prince. He made continual war upon the Britan's that inhabited the borders of his Province, and (chase them from their habitations) planted his own subjects therein. But Aidan the King of Scots, suspecting the neighbourhood of so mighty an enemy, assayed by force, to impeach his further passage Northward, till by the Northumber's, (being fewer in number then the Scots) he was in battle overthrown. Then Ethelfrid, encouraged with this good success, removed the war to Chester, where the Britan's in great number had assembled themselves to make resistance: but, while the Monks and other religious persons were praying there, that the Britan's their countrymen might speed and prosper well in that enterprise, Ethelfrid with his forces furiously assailed them, putting to the sword about one thousand and two hundred religious persons of the Monastery of Bangor, & driving the rest of the Britan's into the woods and marshes: (many of them perishing by the hand of the enemy, before they could recover those places.) When Ethelfrid had reigned about twenty seven years, he was slain in a battle by Redwald, Prince of the Eastangles: and left behind him seven sons, whom Edwin (that succeeded in the government) dispossessed, and banished out of the Province. Edwin was by Boniface the Bishop of Rome exhorted to embrace the Christian faith, and in the year of Grace 6●6. Paulinus (the third Bishop of Rochester in succession) was appointed by justus the Archbishop of Canterbury to preach the Gospel unto the Northumber's, and to be their Bishop: to which end also, Edbald the Prince of the Kentish-Saxons, had by letters recommended him to Edwin his brother in law. In the mean time, Evichelm the Westsaxon Prince, (ambitiously affecting the sovereignty of the Northumber's) practised with Eumer (a man easily corrupted for desire of gain) to murder Edwin the Prince: for the execution of which detestable purpose, Eumer with a poisoned weapon hidden under his garment, assailed the Prince, and had slain him in the place, if Lilla had not thrust himself between his person, and the danger; and, (by making himself the memorable example of a faithful servant) preserved his master's life with the loss of his own. In revenge of this treacherous act, Edwin invaded the territory of the Westsaxons, & (after a great slaughter of the Inhabitants of that Province) reduced the most part of it under his obedience. Then, to show the fruits of his conversion to Christianity, he gave unto Paulinus the City of York, to be a Bishop's Sea, for him and his successors: laying the foundation of the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter, which was afterwards finished by Oswald. About the same time also, Paulinus himself erected the great Church at Lincoln. This prince in felicity of government, excelled all his predecessors: he was greatly beloved and honoured of his people, and no less feared of his neighbour Princes, who (for the most part) held their Provinces of him by homage. The Roman Banner Tufa was carried before him in token of triumph, as well in times of peace, as war. It is not to be forgotten, that he caused certain cups of Iron, and Brass, to be set by clear Wells and fountains, running by high ways, for the use of Pilgrims, and Travellers: which Cups remained long after in those places, no man attempting to convey them away, either for the reverence they bore unto the Prince, (by whose appointment they were set there) or else that they made a conscience to convert to their private commodity, such things as were ordained for a public good. But Edwin having reigned about seventeen years, was in the end assailed at one time, both by Penda the Prince of the Mercians, and Ceadwall the British Prince, till, with the loss of his life, he made an end of the war. CHAP. II. Oswald ruleth the Northumber's. He is slain in battle against Penda the Mercian Prince. He is honoured with the title of a Martyr. Oswin his brother succeed him. A Bishop's Sea at Lichfield. Egfrid the Prince, removeth Bishop Wilfrid from his Sea at York. Ceolnulph and Egbert, successively ruling, give over the government to enter into Religion. Venerable Bede liveth in the time of Ceolnulph. The Northumber's are brought under the subjection of the Westsaxons. AFter his death, the Principality of the Northumber's was dismembered again: For Osrick the son of Elfrick. (Prince Edwins uncle) held only the government of Deira, and Eanfrid the son of Ethelfrid, commanded the Bernicians. Both these Princes forsaking the Christian faith, fell to Idolatry, and were slain in battle by Ceadwall the British Prince, that spoiled & wasted the country of Northumberland, till Oswald (the brother of Eanfrid) opposed himself against the power of the Britan's, whose Captain Ceadwall, with the greatest number of his forces, perished in the field. After this victory, Oswald possessed the Province in peace, and then sent for Aidan a Scottish-man, to preach the Christian faith unto his people, assigning to him Holy-Iland for his Sea. The Inhabitants of Deira and Bernicia (who for the hatred which they bore one to another, had submitted themselves to several heads) he wisely reconciled, and uniting them in affection, brought them under the obedience of one governor. He was a zealous professor of the Catholic Religion, which he endeavoured to establish throughout all his Dominions. When he had reigned about eight years, he was killed in a conflict with Penda the Mercian Prince, a cruel Pagan, who commanded his head and arms to be cut from the rest of his body, and in reproachful manner, to be hanged up upon high poles: by reason whereof, and for his holy conversation while he lived, he was after his death honoured with the title of a Martyr. Then Oswin the brother of Oswald succeeding him, was much encumbered, partly by the invasion of the Mercians, and partly by the rebellion of his own son Elfrid. Adilwald (the son of Oswald the Martyr) attempted by force to have recovered the Province: and Oswy the son of Osrick (sometime governor of Deira) being treacherously delivered into his hands, he caused to be murdered. He fought oft times with fortunate success against the Mercians, whom (after he had vanquished Penda) he procured to be instructed in the christian faith: and the better to strengthen his purpose therein, he erected the Church at Lichfield to be the Bishop's Sea for that Province. After he had reigned about thirty two years, he ended his life in peace. Then Egfrid his son ruled the Northumber's. He married Mildred, one of the daughters of Ana Prince of the Eastangles. It is reported of her, that (living with her husband about twelve years) she continued all that time, both a wife, and a virgin; and in the end took upon her the vail of a Nun at Ely, where she erected a Monastery, and was herself the first Abbess. In the mean while Egfrid removed Wilfrid from his Bishopric at York, appointing two other Bishops over the Northumber's for their better instruction in the knowledge of Religion. In his time divers Synods were called by Theodorus, than Archbishop of Canterbury, for reformation of abuses in the Church, for approbation of the five first general Counsels, and for the condemnation of the heresy of Eutyches, who denied the humanity of Christ. Not long before his death, he made war upon Edelfrid Prince of the Mercians, with whom he was afterwards reconciled, by mediation of Theodorus the Archbishop: and then he converted his forces against the Irish and Scottishmen, (inhabiting the Northern Isles) of whom he made a great slaughter: and the year following (making war upon the Picts, contrary to the advice of Cuthbert the Bishop) he was slain by some of his enemies that lay in ambush to surprise him. Then Alfrid (the Bastard son of Oswin) succeeded him, repairing the decayed state of the Northumber's, though he could not recover all that the Picts, Scottishmen, and Britan's, had gotten from them in his brother's time. Osred his son (of the age of eight years) possessed the government, till he was murdered by his kinsmen, Kenred and Osrick, who divided the Principality between them; till falling at civil discord among themselves, the one supplanted the other: by which means, Kenred alone ruled the Northumber's, about two years. Then Osrick (obtaining the government) elected Ceolnulph the brother of Kenred to be his successor: Ceolnulph after he had ruled the Province eight years, and obtained many victories against his enemies, gave over the regiment, and became a Monk in Holy-Iland. About this time lived Benedict the Priest, who first taught the Saxons the art of painting, glazing, & Masonry. In the reign of Ceolnulph, Venerable Bede, (the ornament of that age for learning and piety) flourished in Britanny. He writ the history of the English church, and dedicated it unto Ceolnulph the Prince. Then Egbert the cousin-german of Ceolnulph (imitating the example of his predecessor) forsook the world, and entered into Religion. His brother (bearing the same name) was then Archbishop of York, where he founded a famous Library. Oswolf, Moll, Alered, Etheldred, Aelfwold, and Osred, reigned successively with like fortune, for the most part; for they were all either slain, or deposed by their own subjects, except Etheldred, who was afterwards restored to the government, which yet he enjoyed not long: For (within four years after) he was miserably slain. After his death the Province was wasted, either by cruel dissension, or foreign invasion by the space of thirty years; during which time, Eardulph, Alfwold, Eandred, Ethelred, Readulph, Osbert, and Elle, usurped the title of Princes. Readulph, Osbert, and Elle, were slain at York by the Danish Pirates, Hinguar and Hubba, whom Benbokard (in revenge of the indignity offered to him by Osbert, that had ravished his wife) had stirred up to undertake that enterprise. But about the year of grace 800. the Danes were expelled, & the Northumber's brought under the subjection of Egbert the Westsaxon Prince. The succession of the Westsaxon Princes. 1 Cerdic. 2 Kenric his son. 3 Ceaulin, the son of Kenric. 4 Cearlick, the nephew of Ceaulin. 5 Ceolnulph. 6 Kinegles, the first Christian Prince. 7 Guichelin, the son of Kinegles. 8 Cuthred, the son of Guichelin. 9 Kennewalch, the younger son of Kinegles. 10 Sexburga, the widow of Kennewalch. 11 Eascwin, the nephew of Kinegles. 12 Kenewin, the youngest son of Kinegles. 13 Ceadwall. 14 Ina. 15 Ethelard. 16 Cuthred. 17 Sigebert. 18 Kenulph. 19 Britric. 20 Egbert. ❧ The succession of Bishops in the Principality of the Westsaxons. Bishops of Dorchester. 635 Birinus sat fifteen years. 650 Agilbertus, ten years. 660 Wina, sat at Winton ten years. 670 Leutherius, seven years. 686 Hedda, twenty eight years. 705 Daniel, (who was also Bishop of Selesey) sat forty years. 745 Humfertus, ten years. 755 Kinewardus, twenty five years. 780 Aethel●ardus, eleven years. 791 Egbaldus, four years. 795 Dudda, two years. 797 Kinebertus, eleven years. Bishops of Shireburn. 705 Aldelmus, sat five years. 710 Fortherus, twenty seven years. 736 Herewaldus, nineteen years. 756 Aethelmodus, twenty two years, 788 Denefrithus, twenty one years. 798 Wibertus, twenty years. CHAP. I. Westsaxons. The Principality of the Westsaxons, established by Cerdic. Berinus preacheth the Christian faith to the Westsaxons. The town of Dorchester assigned to him for a Bishops Sea. Kinegles the first Christian Prince. Winchester is made a Bishop's Sea by Kennewalch the Westsaxon Prince. Ceadwall (resigning the government to Ina) goeth to Rome, where he dieth. THe Westsaxons took the addition of their name from the situation of place, as inhabiting the Western part of the I'll; wherein at this day, are contained the Counties of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Wilton, Southampton, and Berk. About the year of grace 509. Cerdic (with Kenric his son, and a warlike company of Saxons) arrived in Britanny, where they were encountered by Natanleod a British Prince, near a shallow brook, (afterwards called Cerdics-foord) and now by contraction of speech, Chardfoord. The fortune of that battle, determined the hope of the Britan's, and established the Saxons in possession of the greatest part o● those Countries: over which, Cerdic and Kenric ruled with equal authority, enlarging their dominions by the conquest of the I'll of Wight: the government whereof, was assigned by Cerdic, to Stuffa and Withgar his nephews. After the father and son had ruled jointly about seventeen years, Cerdic (ending his life by course of nature) left the entire Principality to Kenric his son. Kenric was oft times assailed by the Britan's, who attempted the recovery of their ancient possessions, but could not prevail: and the Province being otherwise free from annoyance, was peaceably governed during his time. Then Ceaulin his son succeeding him, made war upon Ethelbert the Kentish Prince: in the prosecution whereof, Oslave and Cnebban (two valiant Captains of the Kentish Saxons) were slain, and Cutholp his brother, made head against the Britan's; from whom, he recovered diverse Forts and Cities, which they had gotten in the Territory of the Mercians. But while Ceaulin was making war abroad, Cearlic (his brother G●tholps son) kindled a rebellion within the Province, and by force, usurped the government about five years. After the death of Cealric, Ceolnulph the son of Cutha, (the son of Ceaulin) recovered the Principality. In the beginning of his reign, the Province of the Westsaxons was invaded, both by the Britan's, & also by the Scottishmen and Picts. The Eastangles likewise at the same time assailed it: but Ceolnulph, having appeased these troubles, and (beginning a new war against the South-Saxons) died before he could fully finish it, leaving the prosecution thereof to Kinegles his son: who with good success undertook the war, and (having overthrown the Britan's) converted his forces against Penda the Mercian Prince; with whom (after each had tried the others strength in battle) he concluded a peace. In the year of grace 635. he embraced the Christian faith, and was baptized by Berinus, who first preached the Gospel to the Westsaxons: (Oswald Prince of the Northumber's, being his godfather at his baptism.) The City of Dorchester was by Kinegles and Oswald, assigned to Berinus, for the Bishop's Sea of that Province. Then Guichelin, the son of Kinegles, and Cuthred, the son of Guichelin, ruled successively, and were both baptized by Berinus the Bishop. After them, Kennewalch (the younger son of Kinegles) obtained the government. He married the sister of Penda the Mercian Prince, and afterwards put her away: whereupon Penda, (to revenge the indignity offered to his sister) made war upon him, and drove him out of the Province, which he afterwards recovered by the assistance of Ana, Prince of the Eastangles: for Kennewalch, during the troubles in his own dominions, had fled thither, and was there baptized by Faelix the Bishop. He founded the Cathedral Church at Winchester, to be the Bishop's Sea for the Province of the Westsaxons, and appointed Wi●a to be the first Bishop of that place. He gave also to the Abbot Aldelmus, the town of Mal●esbury, where (by the help of Elutherius, that succeeded Wi●● in the Bishopric of the Westsaxons) he erected a fair Monastery, of which, William of Malmesbury, (who wrote in Latin part of the English History) was sometimes a Monk. After his death, Sexburga his wife held the Principality: but (finding that by reason of the weakness of her sex, she was unable to support so weighty a burden) she soon gave it over, and went into a Nunnery in the I'll of Shepey, which herself had founded. Then Eascwin (the nephew of Kinegles) succeeded. He began a war against Wolpher the Mercian Prince, with whom he fought a set battle. What other things were done by him worthy remembrance, I find little reported. Then Kenewin (the youngest son of Kinegles) ruled the Westsaxons. He was oft times annoyed by the Britan's, whom in the end he chased into the utmost parts of the Province Westward. Ceadwall the nephew of Ceaulin, possessing the government, subdued the Province of the South-Saxons, and wasted the Kentish Territories: in the pursuit of which war, he gave unto the Church (even before he was baptized) the tenths of all those spoils which he took. Wherein, howsoever his intention may be censured, yet the example is no way, justifiable, considering it is written; That he which offereth unto God the goods of the innocent, doth as it were sacrifice the Son in the ●ight of the Father. After he had subdued the I'll of Wight, he sent thither Wilfrid the Bishop, to instruct the inhabitants in the knowledge of Christian religion: and being wearied with worldly affairs, resigned the government to Ina, and went to Rome; where he was baptized by the name of Peter, and soon after ended his life. His body was buried in the Church of Saint Peter, and (over the place where he was 〈◊〉) the inscription of his name and condition was engraven. CHAP. II. Ina succeed Ceadwall in the government of the Westsaxons. Peter Pence first paid to Rome. The Bishopric of the Westsaxons divided into two Seas. Laws made by Ina the Prince. The Church at Wells made a Bishops Sea. The first arrival of the Danes in Britanny, in the time of Britric▪ Egbert the Westsaxon Prince, subdueth diverse provinces, which he annexeth to his 〈◊〉 Principality. INa was lineally descended from the Westsaxon Princes. He was a Prince of great courage and wisdom, and for the most part fortunate in his attempts: For 〈…〉 Prince, he withstood by open forc● the Kentish-Saxons (being weakened by many forme● assaults) he constrained with great sums of money, to purchase peace at his hands: and the Province of the 〈…〉, after the death of Anth●● their Prince, 〈…〉 in battle) he reduced wholly under his obedience. Then he manifested his good inclination, to support and advance the state of the Church: to which end, he 〈…〉 at W●ll●, that was afterwards 〈◊〉 to a Bishops Sea. He builded also anew, the Abbey of 〈◊〉, bestowing great cost upon the Church there, which he caused to be very richly garnished with gold and 〈…〉 for the religious persons. He instituted a certain yearly payment to the Sea of 〈◊〉, ●●ipyning every 〈◊〉 of his Read me▪ (that 〈…〉 This payment was first called the King's Alms, and afterwards the Peter pence. In his time the Bishopric of the Westsaxons, becoming void, was divided into two Seas, whereof the one remained at Winchester, and the other was established at Shirborn. He made many good laws both for the administration of justice in civil causes, and also for the government of the Church: some of which (even in these our days) are extant in the Saxon tongue. After he had reigned a long time in great prosperity, he was persuaded by Ethelburga his wife, to resign the Principality to Ethelard his kinsman, and to go to Rome; where afterwards, professing voluntary poverty, he ended his latter days in as lowly and mean estate, 〈◊〉 he had formerly spent the greatest number of 〈…〉 pomp and glory. Ethelard at his first entrance, was much troubled with civil dissension, which Oswald (one of the princely blood aspiring to the government) had raised 〈◊〉 the Westsaxons▪ but (that rebellion being app●●●ed) he reigned the rest of his life in peace. Then Cut●red, the kinsman of Ethelard succeeded. The borders of his Province b●ing strongly assailed by the 〈◊〉, he fortunately defended: In his time there appeared two blazing Stars, which were afterwards noted to be ominous predictions of those calamities which befell the Province under the tyranny of the Danes. Then 〈◊〉 obtained the Principality of the Westsaxons. He was a Prince much detained for 〈◊〉 and oppression of his subjects, the ancient laws and customs of the Province, 〈…〉 in such like outrageous practices, he was at the last by his own people deprived of all authority, and enforced for safeguard of his life, to hide himself in woods and forests, where he lived in great misery, secluded from the society of men, (whereof by his inhumanity he had made himself unworthy) till at the last, he was slain in Andreds-wald by a Swineherd, whose Master in former times, Sigebert had injuriously put to death. Kenulph (descended from the line of Cerdic, the first Prince of the Westsaxons) was partly for the honour of his blood, and partly for the general opinion of his sufficiency, advanced to the government. Such factions and popular tumults, as had risen by the deposing of his predecessor, he pacified with great wisdom and moderation. He was the first founder of the church at Wells, where a Bishop's Sea was afterwards placed. Howbeit he was much inclined to the wanton pleasures of the flesh, which were the occasion of his destruction in the end: for, going in private manner to visit a strumpet, (whom he kept) he was entrapped by one of Sigeberts' kinsmen, and murdered in the way. Then Britric (being also of the race of Cerdic) governed the Westsaxons. He was a Prince by nature more addicted to peace then war: He married Eadburga, the daughter of Offa, Prince of the Mercians, by whose aid he expelled Egbert, the Westsaxon that invaded his Province, forcing him to fly into France, where afterwards he lived (like a banished man.) In his time about the year of grace 800. the Danes first attempted to land in Britanny, whereat their arrival, they took the I'll of Portland; but Britric (combining with some other of the Saxon Princes) jointly assailed them, and in short time chased them out of the land: and Britric himself, having reigned about seventeen years, was poisoned by Eadburga his wife, who fled into France, transporting thither great store of treasure. Westsaxons. But (not finding that good entertainment which she expected at the French Kings hands) she became a Nun, and afterwards Abbess of a religious house; from whence a● the last, she was expulsed for committing adultery with a lay person and ended her vicious and dishonourable life in extreme poverty. After the death of Britric, the Westsaxons were governed by Egbert, who enlarged his dominions by many and great conquests: for first, he brought under obedience the Walshmen, (who had been always accustomed upon advantage, to make incursions into the Province:) then with like success, he assailed and subdued the Mercians, the Northumber's, the Kentish and the East-Saxons, whose Provinces he annexed to the Principality of the Westsaxons, as by relation of that which followeth, more plainly shall appear. The end of the Second Book of the Second Part of the History of Great Britanny. ❧ The Table of the Contents of the Chapters in the Second Part of the History of Great Britanny. The first Book. A Repetition of the Contents of the former part. A brief relation of the condition of the Britan's under the Picts and Scottishmen, from the Romans departure thence, until the beginning of the reign of Vortiger, the last British Prince. page 173 The Britan's elect Vortiger to be their King. They send for the Saxons to aid them. The original and manners of the Saxons. 177 The Saxons vanquish the Scottishmen and Picts. Hengist deviseth how he may get possession of the East part of the Island. 182 Saxons, jutes and Angles, arrive in Britanny. Vortiger marrieth Hengists' daughter. He is deposed. 186 Vortimer succeed his father in the government. Vortiger is restored. The most noble of the Britan's, are treacherously murdered by the Saxons upon Salisbury Plains. 190 The calamities of the Britan's. The professors of Christian religion in Britanny, are persecuted by the Saxons; whose idolatry and superstitious rites are described. 193 Germanus the Bishop, conducteth the Army of the Christian Britan's against their enemies, (being Pagans) who by his means are defeated. He departeth out of Britanny. 196 Aurelianus Ambrose, aideth the Britan's against the Saxons. The valiant acts of Arthur the Warlike. 198 The Britan's fly into Wales and Cornwall, where they seat themselves. The Saxons and English possess the greatest part of the I'll, which is afterwards divided into several Principalities. 201 The second Book. THe Principality of the Kentish-Saxons established by Hengist, whom Vsk, Otta, and Ermeric succeed in the government. Austen the Monk is sent from Rome by Gregory the Great, to preach the Christian faith to the Saxons and English. He landeth in Kent, where he is courteously entertained by Ethelbert the Prince of that Country. 209 Austen converteth diverse of the Saxon and English from Paganism to Christianity. The cause that first moved Gregory the Great to intend their conversion. Austen is consecrated chief Bishop of the English Nation, by the Bishop of Arles in France. He advertiseth the Bishop of Rome, of the success of his voyage into Britanny, and requireth directions touching the Ecclesiastical government to be there established. 212 Instructions sent to Austen from the Bishop of Rome, for the ordering and government of the new Church in Britanny. The primacy of the Sea of Canterbury. The first English Bishop's of London and York. 214 Austen receiveth the Pall from Rome. Gregory the Great, sendeth gratulatory letters to Ethelbert, who is converted to the faith, being the first Christian Prince of the English Nation. The Church of Saint Paul in London is founded. Melitus, the first Bishop there in the Saxons time. justus the first Bishop of Rochester. Contention between the English and British Clergy, about the celebration of the feast of Easter. 217 Austen calleth a Synod to reconcile the differences between the British and English Clergy. The British Bishops ask counsel of an Anchorite, whether they should conform themselves to such things as Austen the Monks should require of them. They refuse to accept him for their Archbishop. Austen appointeth Laurentius to succeed him in the Sea of Canterbury. He dieth. 220 Ethelbert the Prince, provideth for the maintenance of religious persons. He ordaineth laws for civil government, publishing the same in the English tongue. Edbald his son succeed him in the Principality of the Kentish-Saxons. His Apostasy, Repentance. Death. 222 Ercombert succeed Edbald in the Principality. The institution of Lent. Honorius the Archbishop of Canterbury, divideth his Province into Parishes. Deusdedit succeed Honorius in the Sea of Canterbury. Egbert ruleth the Kentish-Saxons after the death of Ercombert. Theodorus the Archbishop of Canterbury, expelleth Wilfrid out of the Sea of York. His learning in Divinity and Philosophy. His estimation in the Court of Rome. 225 Lothar (by intrusion) succeed Egbert his brother in the government. The Westsaxons invade the Province of Kent. Cuthbert Archbishop of Canterbury, calleth a Synod for reformation of abuses in the Clergy. The succession of the Kentish Princes, from Lothar to Alrich. Kent is subdued, and annexed to the Principality of the Westsaxons. 227 ¶ The Principality of the South-Saxons established by Ella. Cissa his youngest son, succeed him therein. Edilwalch the first Christian Prince of the South-Saxons. 233 Variance between the Archbishops of Canterbury and York. Wilfrid chief Bishop of the Northumber's, (expulsed from his own Sea at York) flieth into Sussex, where he converteth the inhabitants to the Christian faith. He is courteously entertained by Edelwalch the Prince, who assigneth to him the I'll of Selesey, for an Episcopal Sea. The South-Saxons are brought under the obedience of the Westsaxon Princes. 235 ¶ The Principality of the Mercians, erected by Creda the Saxon. Penda persecuteth the Christians in his Province. Peda succeed Penda his father in the government. He marrieth the daughter of Oswin, Prince of the Northumber's, and receiveth the Christian faith. 241 Oswin Prince of the Northumber's, ruleth the Mercians after the death of Peda, till he is deposed by Wulfere, the brother of Peda. Lichfield is made a Bishop's Sea for the Province of the Mercians. Chad is Bishop of that place. Wulfere is christened. Ethelred his brother succeed him in the Principality. He foundeth a Bishop's Sea at Worcester. He resigneth his government, and goeth to Rome, where both himself and Kindred his nephew, take upon them the habit of religion. Celred his son succeed him. 243 Ethelbald succeed Celred in the government. He is reproved by Bonifacius an Englishman, (Bishop of Vtricht in Holland) for his lascivious life. His repentance. He erecteth the Monastery of Crowland. He is slain in battle. 245 Offa ruleth the Mercians. He foundeth the Monastery of Saint Alban. He maketh a ditch to divide the Territories of the English and Walshmen. Kenelmus the Martyr. The Catalogue of the Mercian Princes, from Offa, until the Westsaxons obtained their Principality. 248 ● The Principality of the East-Saxons, erected by Erchenwin. Sebert the first Christian Prince. Melitus the first Bishop of the East-Saxons, hath his Sea at London. Saint Paul's Church there founded by Ethelbert (the first Christian Prince of the Kentish-Saxons.) The Church at Westminster founded by Sebert. Cedda (afterward called St. Chad) preacheth the Gospel to the East-Saxons. Sigher and Sebbi, jointly rule the Province. 252. The Devotion, Chastity, and Charity of Sebbi the Prince. The manner of his death. Offa resigneth the government, and goeth to Rome, where he entereth into religion. Egbert the Westsaxon Prince, obtaineth the Principality of the East-Saxons. 254 ¶ The Principality of the Eastangles erected by Vffa. Faelix a Burgundian, preacheth the faith to the Eastangles. His Episcopal Sea at Dunwich in Suffolk. Sebert the first Christian Prince, resigneth his government to Egrick, and entereth into a Monastery, from whence he is drawn forth by his subjects, when the Mercians invade his Province. He is slain in battle with Egrick, whom Ana succeed in the government. 259 Athelhere the brother of Ana, ruleth the Eastangles. He is slain by Oswin, Prince of the Northumber's. S. Ethelbert is murdered by Offa, Prince of the Mercians. Offa having made a voyage into the Holy-Iland, dieth in his return homewards. Edmund succeed Offa in the government. The Martyrdom of S. Edmund by the pagan Danes. The Monastery of S. Edmundsbury in Suffolk erected. The principality of the Eastangles annexed to that of the Westsaxons. 261 ¶ The Principality of the Northumber's divided into two Provinces, namely Deira and Bernitia, which are united by Ethelrick. Ethelfrid defeateth the Britan's, and killeth the Monks of Bangor. Edwin the first Christian Prince. Paulinus preacheth the faith to the Northumber's, and hath a Sea a signed to him at York. The death of Edwin. 267 Oswald ruleth the Northumber's. He is slain in battle against Penda the Mercian Prince. He is honoured with the title of a Martyr. Oswin his brother succeed him. A Bishop's Sea at Lichfield. Egfrid the Prince, removeth Bishop Wilfrid from his Sea at York. Ceolnulph and Egbert, successively ruling, give over the government to enter into religion. Venerable Bede liveth in the time of Ceolnulph. The Northumber's are brought under the subjection of the Westsaxons. 271 The principality of the Westsaxons, established by Cerdic. Berinus preacheth the Christian faith to the Westsaxons. The town of Dorchester assigned to him for a Bishops Sea. Kinegles the first Christian Prince. Winchester is made a Bishop's Sea by Kennewalch the Westsaxon Prince. Ceadwall (resigning the government to Ina) goeth to Rome, where he dieth. 277 Ina succeed Ceadwall in the government of the Westsaxons. Peterpence first paid to Rome. The Bishopric of the Westsaxons divided into two Seas. Laws made by Ina the Prince. The Church at Wells made a Bishops Sea. The first arrival of the Danes in Britanny, in the time of Britric. Egbert the Westsaxon Prince, subdueth diverse Provinces, which he annexeth to his own Principality. 281 ❧ The succession of the Kings of England from Egbert the first English Monarch, until the Norman Conquest. 1 Egbert reigned thitie seven years. 2 Ethelwulfe (the son of Egbert) twenty years. 3 Ethelbald, (the eldest son of Ethelwulfe) five years. 4 Ethelbert, (the second son of Ethelwulfe) five years. 5 Ethelred (the third son of Ethelwulfe) five years. 6 Alfred, (the youngest son of Ethelwulfe, 29. years. 7 Edward (surnamed the Elder) twenty three years. 8 Athelstane, (the eldest son of Edward) sixteen years. 9 Edmund (the second son of Edward) six years. 10 Edred (the youngest son of Edward) nine years: 11 Edwin (the elder son of Edmond) four years. 12 Edgar, surnamed the Peaceable (the younger son of Edmond) sixteen years. 13 Edward, surnamed the Martyr (the elder son of Edgar) four years. 14 Ethelred, surnamed the unready, (the younger son of Edgar,) thirty seven years. 15 Edmund, surnamed Ironside (the son of Ethelred) in whose time the Danes possessed the greatest part of England. ❧ The succession of the Princes of Denmark in the Kingdom of England. 1 Cnute reigned nineteen years. 2 Harold the first, surnamed Harefoot (the Bastard of Cnute) four years. 3 Hardy-Cnute, (the son of Cnute) two years. 16 Edward the Confessor, reigned twenty four years. 17 Harold the second, the usurper. 18 William Duke of Normandy, surnamed the Conqueror. The beginning of the reign of Egbert the first English Monarch. EGBERT. I: SAX: MONARCH: portrait of Egbert Upon report of the death of Britric, Egbert with great speed returned out of France, where (during the time of his abode) he had served with good commendation in the wars, under Charles the Great, by means whereof (his reputation increasing among his own Country men) he was thought worthy of the government, before he obtained it: Besides, the Nobility of his blood, & the pusillanimity of the late Prince his predecessor, seemed to add more sufficiency to his own merit. At his first entrance he assailed the Cornish and Walshmen, who commonly upon the change of Governors, used to make incursions into the Provinces next adjoining to them, continuing their claim (as it were) to those countries, from which the Britan's (their ancestors) had been expelled; and though formerly they had thereby sustained many, and great losses: yet it well appeared, that they had not altogether lost their wont courage, hereditary to that warlike Nation. The Cornish-men being first subdued, he employed his whole forces against the Welsh, whom he earnestly pursued, never desisting, until he had pierced into the very utmost limits of Wales, upon the Western Sea. This fortunate proceeding, bred both envy and jealousy in divers Princes of the land, specially in Bernulph the governor of the English-Mercians, who thought it a necessary point of policy to make opposition betimes, lest the Westsaxons growing too great, the Principality of Mercia might be endangered: considering withal, that it would be more advantageable to make an offensive war, then to rest merely upon defence, wherein the peril and hazard was likely to be as great, as in the other: the gain and glory much less. Hereupon he entered the Province of the Westsaxons, with a huge army, consisting of men (for the most part,) unmeet for military service, as being by long ease and idleness corrupted, and become faint hearted, and unwieldy, so that at the first assault (made by their enemies) they turned their backs, and being confounded by their own numbers, were over whelmed one upon an other in their flight. The fortune of this battle did cut in sunder the very sinews of the Mercian government, which soon after (as unable to support itself any longer) fell to the principality of the Westsaxons. And now Egbert conceiving hope of like success, in attempting the Conquest of the other provinces, and knowing well, that the Kentish Prince was then scarce settled in his government, and hated of his subjects, he supposed, a fit opportunity was offered, to bring that part of the I'll also under subjection; and thereupon, sent his son with an army to invade it, appointing Alstan the warlike Bishop of Shirburne, and Walhard (a man of good reputation for arms in those times) to assist him, with direction and advice in the prosecution of the war, which was begun and ended prosperously both in one year. In the mean while, the East-Saxons being taught by their neighbours example, how much better & more safe it is to prevent the calamities of an invasion by yielding obedience, then by standing upon terms of defiance (where there is no hope to prevail) voluntarily submitted themselves. But the Northumber's held out yet longer: making open resistance against the West Saxons, till partly by their own civil discord, and partly by the irruption of the Danes (that annoyed their coasts) they were glad to seek the aid and protection of the Westsaxons, as holding it a better course in that case of necessity, to become subject to a nation that they knew, then to be made slaves to strangers. Thus were the Principalities of the Kentish▪ and East-Saxons (with the English-Mercians and Northumber's) brought under Egberts' obedience, 〈…〉 greatest part of the I'll made, in a manner, one Monarchy, which form of government it seemed in some sort to retain, even during the continuance of the sevenfold regiment of the English-Saxons, amongst whom some one Prince was always of greater power than other, & had a right of superiority above the rest. Neither was there any thing now wanting, for the establishment of an absolute governmnt; for the Walshmen (the posterity of the ancient Britan's) were for the most part slain in battle, & those that survived were utterly disarmed, and thrust into a corner of the I'll. The city of Chester (their strongest hold) was possessed by the English, with out all hope to be recovered. As for the South-Saxons, & East-English, (whose Provinces remained as yet unconquered) they were but a handful in comparison of the rest, & more likely to seek the assurance of their estates by a reasonable composition, then by standing any long time upon defence, if they should be assailed. But Egbert (knowing well that there was as much wisdom requisite in the keeping and well ordering, as there had been valour showed in the getting of those Provinces) held a general assembly at Winchester, (the chief City of the Westsaxon Princes) where he was with great and unusual ceremonies of state, declared King. Then for the uniting and settling of the Sovereignty in himself & his successors, he ordained that the Inhabitants (who had been a long time distinguished by divers names,) should now be made an entire nation, and being governed by one Prince, should bear jointly one name: & to that end he commanded by public Edict, that the several Provinces (so united) should for ever after he called Angles-land, which by a contraction of the word, or corruption of the time was afterwards (as at this day it is) called England. For, the memory of the jutes being long since worn out, & the name of the Saxons now suppressed by edict, the Angles only remained, who in respect of their number might seem to challenge by right the denomination: and it is certain, that the Inhabitants of the greatest part of the I'll, were (many years before) commonly called Angles, or English. Certain short Notes touching the Roman state militare, for the better understanding of the first Part of this History: namely, for the help of such as are ignorant in the ancient Roman Stories, THe forces which the Romans used in their foreign wars, The Legionary forces. consisted of Legions and Aids. The Legions were generally divided into Footmen, & Horsemen, whose number was oft times changed, according to the difference of times, & alteration of the state; the City of Rome being first governed by Kings: afterwards by the Senate, and people under the Consuls, and Tribunes (which was commonly called The free State, and, Time of Liberty:) and last, by the Emperors. The Legion under the first Emperors (for to speak of former times is not so proper to this purpose) consisted of 6000. Foot, and 600 Horse, or thereabouts. The chief Officer of the Legion, was called Legatus Legionis, (Lieutenant of the Legion,) who had the principal charge as well of Horse as Foot, under the Lieutenant general of the Army, or Governor of the Province for the Emperor; which Lieutenant, and Governor is commonly called in the Roman story Legatus, or Propretor, as the Governor for the Senate and people, was called Proconsul; [for some Provinces were at the disposition of the Emperors only, and others were assigned by the Senate and People.] The inferior Officers of the Legion, were the Centurion, Ensign-bearers, etc. The Footmen in the Legion, were equally divided into ten Cohorts, or Companies, whereof each one had a superintendant Officer. The 600. Horse in the Legion, were divided into ten Troops, called Turma●: every troup containing three Decuries, or Thirty Horse, over whom were placed Officers called Decuriones, that had every one the particular charge of ten Horse. The chief Officer of the troup, was called Praefectus Turmae. In the Legion none were to be enrolled for Soldiers, but Citizens of Rome, and men of ingenious professions. The additions of number, as namely, the First, Second, Third Legion, etc. were given to the Legions at first, in regard of the time and order of mustering, and became afterwards Surnames, together with other additions of place, person, and quality, imposed either upon accident, or for distinctions sake. ¶ The Aids, or auxiliary forces, auxiliary forces. sent from foreign Countries (being by league and contract bound to assist the Romans in their wars) were divided into companies of Foot, called Cohortes, and wings of Horse, which they termed Alae. Every Cohort contained six hundred Foot, whose chief Officer was called Praefectus. There were eight Cohortes commonly assigned for the Aids of one Legion. Every Ala, or wing of Horse, contained about three hundred, whose chief Officer was also called Praefectus, and the inferior Officers [Decuri●nes.] There were commonly two of these wings assigned (together with the eight Cohorts of Foot above named) for the Aids of one Legion. Who so desireth to be more particularly instructed herein: let them read the learned; and judicial Annotations upon Tacitus, translated by Sir Henry Savile Knight; whence I have extracted these notes, as also borrowed a great part of the Translation itself, as may appear in the second Book of the first Part of this work. The names of certain Writers of the Roman, and English Story, out of whose works, the matter of the precedent History hath been) for the most part) collected. Writers of the Roman Story. IVlius Caesar, his Commentaries, de bello Gallico. Cor. Tacitus. Dio: Cassius, his Books of History. His Annals, translated into English by Richard Grenoway. His first four Books of History, and the life of julius Agricola translated into English by sir Henry Savile knight. Ammianus Marcellinus, his 18. Books of History. Master Camden, his Britannia. The Writer of the Book entitled, The three Conversions of England from Paganism to Christian religion. Writers of the English Story. Venerable Bede, his History of the Church of England. William the Monk of Malmesburie, his Books of the deeds of the English Kings and Bishops. Master Camden, his Book (Britannia.) john Stow, his Annals. The above named Writer of the Book entitled, The three Conversions of England from Paganism to Christian Religion. Faults escaped in the Printing. Page 9 line 5. recovered Caesar's Tent, where read he came to Caesar's presence, of whom 11. 13 out of the Roman Camp out of the view of the Roman Camp 13. 4. charged with the Britan's charged by the Britan's 23. 3. Gassibelin Cassibelin 27. 10. cliffs of the I'll possessed cliffs of the I'll, which were possessed 54. 22. at other times) and more at other times) to attempt, and more 57 7 sweat sweet 73. 25. to ●ortefie a work to fortify; a work 79. 12. armed at the Mount arrived at the Mount 97 figure 2●. Pessenius Niger Pescenius Niger 98. fig. 30. Vibius Pallus Vibius Gallus 99 fig. 47. Costantius Constantius 109. 17. ascension ascension 113. 7. soldiers, then ranging the Countries: they wasted soldiers; Then ranging the Countries, they wasted 126. 24. Collianus Lollianus 142. 2. Imperial decree immutable decree 150. 8. Bodatria Bodotria 162. 26. Roman Artaie Roman Army 163. 15. practiseth with an Army practiseth with the Army 163. 21. Aurelianus Victorinus Aurelianus. Victorious 165. 2. Amorica Armorica 181. 9 Chessonesus Chersonesus 184. 24. breath breach 188. 4. attain obtain 192. 15. in actions in action 199. 25. nIto Into 200. 28. repaired impaired 215. 19 and the family and his family 223. 17. prefer preserve 223. 23. of Northumber's of the Northumber's 224. 4. direct divert 231. fig. 1. Simen Cimen 241. 12. either of them any of them 260. 27. Holo●ham Hol●●cham There be diverse other errors, which the understanding Reader may easily reform.