A NOTABLE History of the Saracens.  
Briefly and faithfully describing the original beginning, continuance and success aswell of the Saracens, as also of Turks, soldans, Mamalukes, Assassins, Tartarians and Sophians. With a discourse of their Affairs and Acts from the birth of Mahomet their first peevish Prophet and founder for 700 years space.  
whereunto is annexed a Compendious chronicle of all their yearly exploits, from the said Mahomet's time till this present year of grace. 1575.  
Drawn out of Augustine Curio and sundry other good Authors by Thomas Newton.  
Imprinted at London by William How, for Abraham veal. 1575.   


HONI SOIT QVI MAL Y PENSE    

¶ To the Right honourable the Lord Charles Howard, Baron of Effyngham, and Knight of the most Noble Order of the Garter.  
Right Honourable: Calling to remembrance what streict account every Man particularly at the last general Audite, is enjoygned to yield for time here bestowed, I have somewhat in discharge of my duty that way, according to the rate and measure of my small Talon, travailed to bring to light for the benefit of my Countrymen this historical Discourse of Saracens, Turks and other Reprobates of the same stamp and Lyverey, in hope that the same to your Honour and others of ripe judgement thyrstinge after such needful knowledge, shall be deemed labour and time not all together ill spent. Which matter although it required the cunning hand of a skilfuller workman, for the better polisshing and bringing thereof into good frame and order, yet the diligent endeavour of such as do their uttermost seemeth (in the mean while) not to be rejected. For God bestoweth his Gifts and Benefits diversely (some have more and some less) which although by Arythmeticall proportion they seem very unequal, yet being Geometricallye examined, respected and weighed, they jump in a most even equalyty. Herein as in a Mirror is set down, how, when & by whom, this pestilent Generation was first set abroach, what success in their Affairs ever since they have had, and if we wyllnot by others harms take warning, what courtesy is to be looked for at their hands, when and wheresoever they can espy any occasion or opportunity to put in practise their bloody tyranny. They were (in deed) at the first very far of from our Clime & Region, and therefore the less to be feared, but now they are even at our doors and ready to come into our Houses, if our penitent hearts do not the sooner procure at the merciful hands of God, an unity, peace and concord among the Princes, Potentates and People of that little portion of Christendom yet left, which through division, discord and civil dissension hath from time to time enticed and brought this Babylonian Nabugadnezar and turkish Pharaoh so near under our noses. The pitiful state whereof although your L. is not now to learn yet for other's sake, not so ripe in Turkish garboils, I know your Honour according to the wonted generosity of your noble nature will at my hands cheerfully accept, as an earnest penny of my loyal heart to your L. most addicted: whom I beseech God with that most virtuous and honourable Lady your wife to bless with all spiritual benedictions, prosperous health and daily increase of much Honour.  
At London the xii. of May. 1575. Your good Lordships most humble at Commandment. Thomas Newton.   

The Authors Preface.  
MAny a time and often, considering and debating with my self, the acwarde course of this changeable world, among other things I have been greatly desirous to know, what the very & chief cause should be, of the subversion and ruin, from time to time, of all mighty kingdoms: And again of the setting up and advancement of many obscure persons of base degree and parentage to most high honours and dignities. For when I thoroughly consider and call to remembrance the alteration and decay of the Roman Empire, and the manifold calamities that have happened to noble▪ and puissant Kingdoms in times past, I well see, that dissolute life, ambition and discord of Rulers among themselves hath from time to time been the chief & original cause thereof. Insomuch that by reading out of old Monuments and Histories, things long agone achieved and done, I perceive many Empires have been planted and constituted, many Nations subdued, many Kingdoms with long continuance firmly established and most assured pear and tranquillytie among the Commonalty conserved by temperance and sobriety, but chief and specially by civil concord and mutual amity. Wherefore, both reason, & daily examples enforce me to think, that Wealth, riches, strength and skilful policy in warlike affairs without concord and goodwill of the people hurteth many times, but profiteth almost never. Whereas concord and benevolence (even without wealth and richesse) be of great force and of themselves able to do very much. Therefore, they which neglected the safeguard, quietness and commodity of their subjects (whereby, goodwill is both purchased and also nourished,) and wholly yielded themselves to Ambition and desire of sovereignty (bestowing all their studies and cogitations only to enrich and bring themselves to high estate among their own People, desiring rather to be feared of them then of their enemies) were in the end unprofitable to themselves and pernicious to their country. Contrariwise, they that so arm themselves with the unfeigned love and goodwill of their own people and subjects, that they might both be tenderly and intirelye beloved of them, and also be terrible and dreadful to the enemy abroad: those (I say) were they, which notably benefited both themselves and their common wealth. And if we would peruse and rip up th● ancient beginnings of all Kingdoms, and thoroughly consider their first original, we shall find that so many of them as long flourished, were by most honest Arts and ways at the first gotten, and by the best orders of government constituted. For it is well enough known, that at the beginning, the name of a king (which always was a name most holy and venerable) was given and attributed to those that had done best service and been most meritorious to their country, whom the people for their common profit and utility created Kings and Sovereigns over them. For when as the sacred word of God was not yet among men acknowledged, no religion reverenced, nor any civil order regarded, when no man took any respect to lawful matrimony, or to any certain procreation of Children, and the due administration of justice and laws with the profits thereof not once heard of, much less executed: when men after a brutish sort lived abroad in the woods and open fields, wholly drowned in error and blind ignorance, abusing their strength and power only to the satisfying of their own sensual affections and beastly lusts: what man's power was so great, or who was able with all the strength he had to gathertogether these savage and rude persons lurking in woods & cabins abroad, into one fellowship? & to persuade them to be obedient & conformable to his commandments? Certes we must needs confess, that this reducing of them from their first unmannerly rudeness, to honest order and comeliness, was not brought to pass by force and violence, but by wisdom, equity, justice, courteous dealing and liberal benefits bestowed upon them all generally, whereby the hearts of the people were ravished and as it were with a certain bond of benevolence alured to have them in admiration, and to bear unto them an earnest zeal of dutiful good will. And although at the first, they seemed after a sort (because of the strangeness thereof) to be half unwilling, yet at length by means of benefits received, and other liberal courtesies, together with an upright equity in every respect observed, they brought them into order and ready to consent unto every thing that seemed honest and profitable. By these politic means, Saturn the ancientest founder of Rome reigned first in Armenia, and escaped the conspiracy and force of the mightiest kings of Babylon by nothing so much, as by his justice and equity and the assured good wills of his own people, and by their only help, fleeing the fury and cruelty of jupiter, obtained and wan a new kingdom in Italy. By this way, Romulus the other founder of Rome, of a poor and beggarly shepherd, was advanced to the degree of a king. In like manner were Numa and Tarqvinius Priscus of strangers and private persons, made Kings in the same place. By such good will and affection of his Soldiers, Alexander the Great conquered all the East. By concord, the Greeques victoriously augmented and enlarged their dominions: by concord, the common wealth of the Carthaginians grew to be most mighty: the same concord made the Romans, Lords over all Lands, and conquerors of all foreign nations. In this bond of concord the saracenes a weak and slender rabble of Peyzants at the first, being joined and linked together, overcame and possessed very many provinces belonging to the Roman empire: & by this means the power of the Turks at the first & ever since hath increased. But Insolency, Ambition and Discord hath been the subversion of all Kingdoms, mighty Empires and populous common wealths. For when princes (neglecting and forsaking those trades and ways by which their king domes were at the first constituted) think Money and wealth, to be the chief defence, and as it were the Sinews and stays of their kingdoms, when any secret hatred and heart burning enkindleth between them and their people, then do they hazard and endanger both themselves their Royalmes and subjects to the spoil of the enemy. For nature hath thus ordained, that as we feel & perceive others to be affected towards us, we also are affected towards them: & Plato his saying is well known concerning the same matter who writeth that as the princes & rulers in a common wealth are, such commonly be the people and Citizens of the same. Therefore no man aught to marvel, why those Princes which set more by their own private lucre and gain then by the public commodity of their Realm, are many times but slenderly beloved of their subjects: and that all their Officers under them by their evil example, are more careful to enrich their own Coffers then to further the common wealth of their country. Thus men's hearts being diversly bend and their good wills alievated one from an other, the common wealth consequently goeth to wrack & confusion. These were the causes, why the Empire was first translated from the Chaldayes to the Assyrians, from the Assyrians to the Medians, from the Medians to the Persians and last of all from the Persians to the Macedonians. Discord was the overthrow and disparcling of that famous and large Monarchy left by Alexander the Great, while his successors (not content every man with his own Territory) quarreled among themselves for the whole Monarchy. Discord abated and tamed the whole power and common wealth of the Greeques: by discord and civil wars, the Roman state was destroyed and brought almost to nothing: and again the civil division of the Greeques among themselves was the only cause that the flourishing empire of Constantinople was brought under the miserable yoke and slavery of a Nation most barbarous. Discord was the utter undoing and defacing of the saracenes Empire, as in this History it shall plainly appear: and the same plague doth at this day so infest and trouble all Christendom that I fear (and I beseech God my fear may be without effect) lest we shall to late rue and lament either the utter subversion or at lest, the miserable oppression thereof. What do we mean therefore? seeing Ambition and her daughter Discord have ever been the causes of so great calamities and mischiefs, why do we thus run headlong upon the sword point, and cut one another's throat? why have we such delight in civil wars and domestical murder? why do we not (alas for pity that our minds should be somuch blinded and bewitched) lay aside all private grudges and controversies which aught rather to be decided by equity and the infallible law of God, then with war and effusion of Christian blood? why do we not rather bend all our force and power against the professed enemies of Christianity, the contemners & destroyers of all humanity, religion and learning? These wars (I say) which are divided into many parts and factions among us, one conspiring an other's bane and thirsting after his brother's blood, will in the end bring all Christendom to utter ruin and woeful desolation. Which if they would join in one and live together in Christian league, no doubt, Constantinople might be again recovered and annexed to the Roman Empire, Grecia and a great nnmber of Christian countries now living in perpetual morning, & pitiful slavery might be delivered out of the thraldom of unsufferable tyrants, that Sathanical crew of Turkish lurdens might be expulsed and driven to trudge out of all Europa, and the sincere profession of christian religion there eftsoons planted and truly acknowledged. Peradventure some will cast doubts and object, that this our mortal foe is not near hand, but must be sought out (as aforetime) in far countries, that they must pass sundry adventures over many perilous Seas, that they must go a great way beyond all Europa, and set foot into ASIA and Syria by dangerous places, unknown ways suspect countries and fierce people. But behold, even at our doors and ready to come into our houses, we have this arrogant and bragging hellhound, triumphing over us, laughing at our misfortunes, rejoicing to see us thus to lie together by the ears, and gaping in hope short lie to enjoy our goods and Scigniories. O doleful and dangerous times. O corrupt and wilful manners. In times past, one Peter an Eremite being but a poor silly soul, was able with exhorting words and orations to persuade three hundredth thousand men to put on armour against the saracenes, and to procure innumerable Gentlemen & Potentates with all the power they were able to make, to march against them, & to bring them as far as into Afia, where they valiantly conquered and wan from the saracenes many of their Kingdoms and Provinces. For the people in those days were of themselves so willing to adveuture their lives in Christ's quarrel against the blasphemers of his name, that without any stipend or wages (godly zeal so pricked them forward) they took in hand such long Expeditions and weary viages: and while Kings and Rulers were given either to rest and riot, or else busied with civil and domestical wars, they carried their weapons into far Regions to fight against the Infidels and miscreant people. But now whereas our most mighty and the same most unmerciful Enemy the great Turk is ready every day to spill out blood and to work our confusion, possessing & having already under his jurisdiction many of the Christian Provinces, to some others laying battery and siege: and hoping ere it be long, to spoil & overrun the rest, and albeit that Christendom hath Maximilian an Emperor most prudent and wise, yet nevertheless, by the sinister persuasions, and devilish counsels of some seditious persons w●slea and kill one an other. Which thing I considering, and greatly lamenting the state wherein Christendom presently standeth, albeit that I being but one man, and such a one, that lacking both strength & health, am able in person to do no good in the exploits of martial affairs: yet to the intent I might stir up and kindle a desire and go dwyl in many others which are better able, to repulse this our common danger, by such examples as are in Histories registered and written, I have here taken upon me orderly to describe and set out the Acts of the saracenes and Turks, buried almost in the rust ye dungeon of cankered oblivion: that we seeing by what means and sleights they have increased, and by what follies and oversights our power hath diminished, may now at length decline and eschew the like. This whole History breeflye comprysinge the whole Discourse of their reigns and conquests, collected aswell out of many Greeque, Constantinopolitan, and Latin Authors, as out of the Chronicles of the Arabians & Moors, is divided into three Books. The first containeth the nativity, education, reign and continuance of doting Mahomet and the beginning of the Saracens, with the success and increase of their Empire even till it was at the highest, for two hundredth years space. The second is continued from the first inclination till the beginning of the destruction and last end thereof, containing also the space of two hundredth years. The third briefly comprehendeth the final end of it, and the original beginning of the Turkish Empire, (which succeeded the Saracenical Domination) till Ottoman the first Emperor of Turks which entreateth of their acts, for the space of three hundredth years. So that this History taketh his beginning at the birth of Mahomet, which was five hundred & sixty years after the incarnation of our Saviour Christ, and reacheth unto the year one thousand & three hundredth. As for the several Acts of Ottoman and other Emperors that succeeded him, we have here omitted, because they be severally written and described by many others. But of that argument which we in these three Books declare and comprehend, there is none, neither among the Latins nor yet the Greeques (that I know) which hath compiled and made any several History. Which labour of mine, if I may understand to be well liked and allowed, by the judgement of the honest and learned sort, I will hereafter adventure to take in hand other matters of greater weight and importance.   

¶ The first Book.  
Wherein is contained their first beginning and original, with the success and increasing of their Empire.  
I Am purposed to writ an History concerning the Acts of the Saracens, achieved aswell in the East as in the West parts of the world: first because they were great and renowned over the face of the whole Earth and brought all things out of good state into tumultuous broil and confuse disorder, and also because this power of theirs increased, through the discord and dissension of the Christians: that we thereby taking example, may plainly perceive and learn what boldness and strength, our civil warring and inward variance among ourselves giveth to the adversaries and foes of Christianity. And that we no longer in this sort offer our throats willingly to be cut by them, which desire nothing more than our blood and destruction. For first of all, this is well enough known, that the Roman Empire (which through concord temperance and valiantness surmounted and grew to such high Majesty and estate, that all nations almost in the world were obedienciaries and subject unto it) when the Citizens being once lulled in to much ease, and drunken with superfluity of riches and wealth began to addict themselves to riot and ambition (the very causes that overthrew it, when it once began to decline with his own sway and bigness, and many strived for title of the Crown) received at the hands of none, such annoyance and calamity as of the Saracens. For although the Goths most unmercifully and beastly destroying and making havoc of the ancient Monuments of the Roman valiance and worthiness, were the first that triumphed over them, being the people which erst had vanquished and conquered all other nations: Although Attila King of the Huns, like a most raging swift stream spoiled, overrun and destroyed all where ever he came, from the Riphaean to the Pyrene Mountains: Although the Lumbards' occupied and forcibly enjoyed a great portion of Italy, as the Frankes breaking out of Germany into Gallia also did: yet their reigns and dominations in strange Countries either continued not long, or else at lest wise, living under a more gentle and reasonable Clime, changed their former conditions, acknowledged religion and the August Empire of the sovereign Caesars. But the Saracens because they would seem to be subduers and overthrowers both of the Roman Empire and of all Christian religion also, violently breaking and issuing out of Arabia, despoiled and wasted the most noble parts of Asia, which in so many sharp storms and troublesome garboils of most fierce people ever before remained free and untouched, quite abolishing in the same all the studies of good letters and liberal Sciences and (which is most of all) utterly defacing and inhibiting the true worshipping of God and Christian religion. And not only infected the Provinces of Asia but also almost all Africa and the most part of Spain with barbarous rites, misty errors, blind ignorance, and with a most devilish, absurd and detestable religion of their own. And from thence making sundry Roads into Italy, Greece and France lamentably afflicted and laid waste the same, and by continuance & sufferance have planted such a huge Empire, that at this day (being in Anno. 1575. that is to say .900. years and above since it first began, it daily threateneth our confusion and is dreadful to all Christendom. For the Turks who now enjoy all their dominions, have received from them as next heirs unto them, both their Religion and Kingdoms: and yet to this day in Africa, some of the mere line of the Saracens be of great power and authority. But before we go any further to the declaration & discovery of their Acts & government, we must first a little speak of the original Pedigree of the first founder and author of their damnable Sect. 
Arabia.  All Arabia is divided into three parts, whereof one is called Petreia, having his name of an old ancient town in it, called Petra, the second is called Deserta, and the third Faelix or Sabaea. Petreia hath on the West side Egypt and is separated from it, first by the Mount Casius and then by waste wilderness: on the North, it hath jury and Palestina: on the East, Arabia, Deserta: and on the South the innermost part or arm of the Arabian Gulf called Sinus Arabieus. Deserta, wherein the City Scene (otherwise called Scenitis) stood, boundeth on the South upon the Mountains of Arabia Faelix, on the North, it hath Mesopotamia, and on the East the River Euphrates. Arabia Faelix runneth a long between the two bosoms of the Sea, the Arabian and the Persian, being almost on every side environed with water like an Island.; It hath on the North Petreia and Deserta, on the West of the Arabian Gulf, on the East the Persian Gulf, and on the South the red Sea. I find that these Regions were inhabited by four kinds of people, that is, to wit, by the ancient Arabians, which were descended from Arabus, Sabus and Petreius the sons of Cures and the Nephews of Cham, of whom the three Arabies had their names as Arabia Deserta of Arabus, Arabia, Sabaea (which is also called Faelix) of Sabus and Petreia of Petreius (as witnesseth Berosus Chaldaeus. 
Arabians are the offspring of Ishmael. ) Then of the Ismaelites, which were descended from Ishmael the Son of Abraham by his handmaid Agar, of whom a part of the Country, called Agarena and the Town Agarenum (which in Strabo are corruptly read Ararena and Agranum) had their first beginning and denomination: as that part called Petreia was called Nabathaea of Nabath, & the people Caedrei of Cedar the Sons of the same, Ishmael. The third people came and descended of the Sons of Ketura, Abraham's second wife, which possessed a great part of Arabia Foelix, specially that portion which lieth toward the red Sea. They also made Colonies and under Cities in Lybia, and peopled the same with inhabitants of their own lineage and nation, where upon after ward (as josephus witnesseth) the Country was called Africa, 
Africa.  of Ophre the Son of Mandanes, and Nephew to Abraham by his wife Ketura. The fourth kind, took their original beginning of Esau the Son of Isaac, 
Esau inhabited part of Arabia.  who inhabited the parts of Arabia Petreia next unto jury, and of him the people in Arabia Petreia, are of Pliny and Ptolomaeus called by the name of Saracens. For Isaac, Esau his father, was the Son of Abraham by his wife Sara. And they were called Saracens, both because they might thereby show and testify, that they were descended of the line of Sara, who was Mistress, and not of Agar the handmaid as the Ismaelites were: and also that they might be discerned and known from the jews, who also had the very same parents and were proceeded out of the same stock and Progeny. Among all these, the people Scenitae which inhabited Arabia Deserta, were most valiant and warlike, having no habitation nor houses to dwelin, but wandered abroad & lay in Tents in the open fields. These insolently bragged and made their avaunt, that they were of most ancienty, and contended with all others for the nobility of their race. There aid and help, the Roman Emperors in their wars oftentimes used. The Arabians ever had many ordinances and Rites, such as the Hebrews had, and do yet to this day retain and keep the same: for (as Herodotus and Diodorus two ancient Historiographers affirm) they ever used circumcision, and kept the same order of their Tribes and families that the jews did: and account it a heinous offence that a woman should be married to a man of any other Tribe and family than she herself is, and likewise for a man to take to wife a woman of another lineage. They inviolably keep the nobility of their race and Pedigree, so that none but of the noblest sort should reign over them. Neither hath one the regiment and governance over all, but every Tribe to have their proper King, after whom, his own son should not succeed in the kingdom, but the first that was borne of the seed of a right noble man and woman, after he were saluted King, was kept and brought up as heir apparent to the Crown. A people naturally and generally given to theft and robbery, as all others commonly are which devil in hot Countries. Many kinds of religion was used among them: for some worshipped Christ, of whose nature, deity, & omnipotency at that time, whence this our History taketh his beginning (as in all other places at that time also) there were diverse sects and opinions. Some observed the Rites and Ceremonies of the jews: some honoured the Sun and Moon, some certain trees, some Serpents, some a Tower called Alcaba, which they believed and thought was builded by Ishmael, some one thing and some another. In the time of these so great garboils and diversities in religions, and among such blockish and rude people, 
Mahomet.  was Mahomet borne at Itraripe a town of Arabia Deserta, belonging to Mecca, being by his father's side of the ancient line of Corah the son of Esau, or (as some say) of Cedar the son of Ishmael, in the month of February, and in the year after the incarnation of Christ (as they say) 560. whose father was named Abedela & his mother Emma a jew borne, both poor folks and of base parentage. By means whereof (his father being an Ismaelite and his mother a jew) he was in his tender age by them instructed and taught both the rites of the Hebrews and the manner of worshipping that the Gentiles used. His Parents died while he was but yet a tender and young lad, so that then he was committed to the charge and custody of one Salutelib, his uncle by the father's side. And when he came to man's stature he was taken prisoner of the Scenites, which were (as before was showed) the fiercest and warlickest people in all that Country, and lived altogether by robberies, and by them was he sold to a rich Cobbe one Abdimoneples, an Ismaelite. Who quickly perceiving his prompt wit and thoroughly understanding his impudent nature thought him to be a fit instrument to make his factor into other countries about his traffic of merchandise, and so used oftentimes to sand him out of Palestina where he dwelt, into Egypt. Which trade of life, Mahomet the space of many years exercising, got great acquaintance and crept highly in favour with the Hebrews, Christians and Gentiles. This Mahomet was of a mean stature, big headed, somewhat brown complexioned, cheerfully countenanced and lively coloured, a long beard, and yet not hoar: because always as it began to wax grey, with ointments he altered it: his visage and look was grave and portly, pretending a kind of Majesty joined with gentleness and courtesy, his legs very well proportioned, his body in going or moving pleasant and gentle, and like (as they term it) to the course of a still running river, in talk very courteous, in mind and body both stout, strong and venturous, quick and prompt of wit, but the same (as Sallust writeth of Catiline) wicked and disposed to all mischief, bold, hardy, and such a one that cared for no perils. 〈◊〉 Whereof he gave once a manifest example, for being mounted upon a marvelous fierce and untamed Horse (in the presence and sight of sundry his friends) he so spourred and galloped him, that all the beholders, seeing him in such great peril, earnestly desired him to alight. Unto whom with very amiable countenance and pleasant language, he answered, that the Horse was like unto the Sea, doing them thereby to understand, that he took no less pleasure and delectation in that prancing then if he were in a Ship upon the Sea. Also he was fickle minded and double in all his doings, as the infinite rabble of Laws one clean contrarying an other, by him made, do manifestly witness: which thing caused great variety and diverse sorts of sects in his Religion: he was also a deep counterfeytor and dissembler in every matter, but by nature very eloquent withal.  
His ambitious and haughty mind, gaped without measure. after promotion and authority. In so much that considering in his mind this great variety of Sects, he was marvelously inflamed with a desire to establish and make one manner of religion, and to take unto him as well the Sovereignty of Empire, as also of divine honour. Whereof he was put in great hope, by reason of the great sedition and discord of the Christians, the corruption of manners, and the want of warlike discipline. Moreover he was grealy animated by the perverse and Devilyshe Counsel of one Sergius a Monk, who being exiled and expulsed out of Constantinople, for mayntaining the Heresy of the Arrians fled into Arabia, and used oftentimes to come to the house of Abdimoneples, Mahomet's master, and entirely loved Mahomet for the singular dexterity that he conceived to be in his wit and towardness. Therefore assoon as his master Abdimoneples was dead, leaving behind him no Children, his wife Hadigia, being then widow, a woman of fifty years of age, and left sole heir of all her husbands Lands, Goods and Cattles, took her servant Mahomet to husband. Now, being in possession of the widow and all her substance & by means thereof grown to great wealth, he often fell grovelong on the ground, foaming and froathing at the mouth (for he had the falling sickness) and lay in a horrible ecstasy or distraction of mind, which his wife took very heavily and cursed her fortune, in that she had so loathsomely matched herself. He therefore to appease her grief and to make her from great agony to leap to sudden joy, told her that the same happened unto him by the operation of the Spirit of God himself, who appeared unto him and revealed certain things, which he should pronounce and show to the people, touching the law of Moses and of Christ. For (quoth he) our mortal bodies being subject to corruption are not able to sustain and abide the glorious and glittering sight of God, whereby his body was in a manner at such times bereft and separated from his mind. Which words the old trot believing, as she that tenderly loved him for his lusty courage and beautiful age, began now not to love him as a husband, but to worship and reverence him as a holy man and a divine Prophet highly in God's favour, and to blaze his holiness abroad among her Companions and Gossippes. In so much that when she died, she not only left him wealthy in goods and possessions (for she made him heir of all) but also in great veneration and credit among the common people for an opinion of sanctity which was thought to be in him. For which cause, Buback the chiefest and in greatest authority among all of that part of Arabia, and of the same Tribe that Mahomet was, gave his daughter Aissa to him in marriage, when he was but yet thirty years of age. Puffed up with pride because of this new affinity, and for the great abundance of wealth left unto him by his other wife, he openly professed himself to be the messenger of God and a Prophet, and to teach the people a new kind of religion, patched and gathered together out of the erroneous Schisms and heretical dreams of all Sects. For he taught and commanded Circumcision, Baptism, and abstinence from Swine's flesh & wine. He instituted a general fast to be kept one whole month in the year, and that no meat for that space should be eaten in the day time, but only in the night. He affirmed, that there were but three Prophets, that is to wit, himself, Moses and Christ, and that Christ was not God, with an innumerable rabble of most blasphemous opinions contained in his filthy Alcorane. 
Alcorane is a Book containing Mahomettes Law.  Which assertions and opinions were of many at the first derided & flouted at, in so much that they accounted him no better than lunatic and distraught of his right wits. But when that he had persuaded and alured all his Allyantes and the family of Buback which bore great sway and authority, yea and many of the common people also to credit and lean to his Sect, the Magistrates of Mecca, perceiving that this new dotage and commotion would breed a scab in the common wealth, if the inconvenience like to ensue thereby, were not speedily prevented, and the impudency of the man by rigour repressed, (for he slanderously would inveigh and openly rail upon Princes) determined with themselves, to lay hands upon him and to put him to death. Mahomet having understanding of their intentes and minds, fled out of Mecca: whom many of his Kinsfolks, Allies, Friends and Clientes, (who were thoroughly persuaded that he was such a one in deed, as he had professed and would seem to be) followed. And from this year, which was after the Nativity of our Lord and Saviour Christ. 593. years, the Arabians do reckon their years: calling this, the year of Legira, which is to say the year of flight or transmigration. Mahomet therefore seeing such a great multitude to favour and stick to him, putting more trust in his power then he did before, made unto them an Oration, in effect as followeth.  
How earnest I have been and what desire I have always had to proclaim, 
Oration of Mahomet.  advance and publish that law which hath been unto me revealed by the Archangel and Messenger of Almighty God Gabriel, with commandment to teach the same to all mortal wights, both God himself knoweth and you most dear friends can witness. For I never spared any labour, never refused any danger, never any miseries or perilous extremity, where I thought my painful travail might be available or redound to the benefit and soul's health of all people, and where without disturbance and molestation I might conveniently execute the charge and office to me committed and enjoined from the mouth of God. All which I have done to this end, that I might reclaim and call home the people running a stray from their wicked ways, to a holy & sincere integrity of life: and out of the dungeon of Hell, (whither they run headlong,) bring them back into the joys of the celestial Kingdom: following herein the steps and bountifulness of God himself, whose message and ministery we in earth do execute. Who when as all mankind through Adam's transgression and fault, was forfeited and fallen into the hands of the Devil, yet of his mere mercy vouchsafed to deliver and save his people, as before he had promised to our father Abraham: that is to wit, by appointing unto them a law, whereby they might obtain everlasting life and salvation. And therefore first he sent Moses, to lay the first foundations and beginnings of this doctrine, and to call them for fear of everlasting pain and damnation, to a newness and amendment of life. But when the Law of Moses little profited that way, he sent jesus Christ, by gentler ways and means to allure and win them, and to persuade them to live in the service and obedience of God. Now, mankind being again so much depraved and gone a stray, that there is no certain nor constant Religion among them, no discipline, no order nor honest manners, but all out of square and forlorn: he hath enjoined me (whom even from the beginning of the world he had made choice of and predestinated for that purpose) to this office and function, that I should recure extreme evils with extreme remedies, and with fire and sword cut of, all iniquity and make havoc of all them that once should dare to again say or open their mouth against this law: & that I should enlarge the kingdom of God & constitute a more sacred & a more imperial common wealth on earth, than ever any hath heretofore been, for who is so blind, which seeth not, that unless we (whom God hath appointed to that office) do set to our helping hands to redress these so great mischiefs, all mankind shall shortly perish? for man's nature without a Law (which in so great variety and licentiousness of life can be none nor stand in any force) must needs most grievously sin and offend. But how shall we make and constitute any wholesome Law to them that are unwilling to live under any, and despise all godly order? What spiteful reproaches and slanderous reports, we that are careful and diligent to accomplish this Commission and commandment of Almighty God, do sustain at their hands, you most loving friends and companions have seen, and how they pursue after us as after wild Beasts to have our innocent blood.  
But happy are you and blessed, whom God hath chosen to be as ministers and helpers unto me in the exploit and achieving of these so great mysteries and affairs, whose divine will it is, that you should not only be partakers & coheirs with me of eternal felicity in the life to come, but also here in this world should be enriched with great wealth & possessions, the which undoubtedly if you show yourselves men and constantly persist in faith you shall shortly enjoy, by subduing innumerable Nations and conquering most wealthy Countries. For (undoubtedly) it is the good will and pleasure of God, that all those Countries and heaps of wealth, shall be yours, which now wicked men, enemies and adversaries to this law do wrongfully possess. That all these things shall thus happily succeed, both the wickedness of our adversaries, which God will not suffer any longer to escape unpunished, and your trusty aid and valiantness (most worthy friends and fellows) yea and the most infallible oracles of Almighty God do put us in hope most assured. Therefore if you desire to be partakers of the kingdom of Heaven, and of so great richesse and glory upon Earth, it is meet and expedient that you all swear and do homage unto me, that must be your Captain and Ringleader.  
When he had thus made an end, the chief Princes and Rulers of the people and namely Zaid the Son of Zuzara, Aomar and all the rest one after an other with their sword drawn, promised by a solemn Oath to allow of none other law, but that which Mahomet should make: in the defence and setting out whereof, they then and there protested, at all assays when need should require, to spend their life and blood. This ended, Mahomet again commanding them to keep silence, kneeled down on his knees a pretty while, as though he had pattered over some mumbling meditations, & afterwards with a loud voice uttered these words following.  
Now (most courageous champions) make your selves ready to battle look that you want neither weapons nor stomach to win our purpose withal, we have the victory most sure already in our hands. Behold the things which you have often desired and wished for, Richesse, Glory, Renown and perpetual felicity are before our eyes. God hath set them before you as rewards for your valiant and victorious service: your own valiance, the excellency of the cause, and all the things above named aught more to stir up your hearts and prick you forward then any Oration that I can make.  
After he had thus spoken, he appointed ten Captains over the people, chosen out of the noblest in birth and chiefest in dignity among the rest, and such as were allied unto him by marriage, and them did he appoint into Ensigns and Bands. The names of which captains were these: Vbequar, Omar, Ozmen, Alifre, Talaus, Azubeir, Zadin, Zaedine & Abuobeid, & so he marched in battle array toward the City of Mecca. The Magistrates of the City understanding thereof, made out a power against him, which encountering with Mahomet his Host, discomfited and put them all to flight. Wherefore for the space of four years after, Mahomet never durst make any proffer to besiege that City any more. Notwithstanding, he ceased not continually with Orations in the open fields and Country villages, to move and stir up the people to sedition, by means whereof he also caused certain uproars and tumults among the Scenites, which acknowledged for their Lords and Sovereign's the Roman Emperors. Then once again he marched with a fresh supply of more Soldiers against Mecca, where he was again repulsed and missed his purpose: and two years after he again the third time attempted the same and sped as he had done twice before. In this mean while, Heraclius the Emperor perceiving the youthful sort of the Scenites to begin mutine & sedition, for the better quieting thereof, dispatched & sent a great number of them (under the colour of warfare) into far Countries. There reigned at that time in Persia a King named Cosdroes', who had married the daughter of Maurice the Emperor called Marie, at whose instance & persuasion he was contented to be baptized: and so long as his father in law lived, used himself most friendly toward all the Christians & was unto them very courteous & liberal. But after that he was traitorously slain by Phocas, who succeeded him in the Empire, Cosdroes' detesting the disloyal treachery & falsehood of them which had elected such a wicked man, as Phocas, polluted with the bloody murder of his liege Lord and Sovereign to be their Prince, reputing them as Accessaries to the same horrible act and conspiracy, prepared a great army at the instigation and procurement of his wife to revenge the death of his said father in Law. And the more was he emboldened so to do, because he well enough perceived Heraclius (for Phocas was slain within a while after) to be altogether lulled in security and to lie quietly at home without attempting any thing against the Barbarous Nations which with fire, & sword on every side despoiled Italy and the Roman Empire. Whereupon with a huge and populous army he enuaded the frontiers of the Empire, and subduing by fine force all the South parts of Asia, entered into Egypt and took Alexandria: and yet not contented, went further and conquered Carthage, withal Africa. And when he had taken good order for the fortifying of that Country with strong garrisons, he retired back to Alexandria, wasting Syria and jury. Heraclius being not a little nettled with these injurious dealings of Cosdroes', sent unto him for peace: which when he could not obtain at his hands, rather enforced and driven by necessity, then drawn to it by any goodwill in himself levied an army, in which he also had retained the Arabian Scenites, with whom some say that Mahomet was, and that in a battle wherein Cosdroes' side was discomfited, he was sore wounded by a common Soldier named Turcus. And when Heraclius had many times joined battle with Cosdroes', and in divers conflicts put him to the foil, at length he so much crushed his power that he was glad to fly beyond the river Tigranes, where he proclaimed his younger son called Medarses, Successor and heyer apparent to his Crown, dishereting and not regarding his elder son Sirochis, a young Gentleman of great hope and towardness. Whose heart not patiently brooking this contumelious and unnatural dealing, secretly conspired with Heraclius, to betray both his Father and his Brother Medarses, (whom his father had so unkindly preferred before him) with all their richesse and princely furniture. And promised further, to discampe and remove out of all the Roman Provinces such Garrisons as his Father had placed there, conditionally that he might enjoy the Kingdom of Persia, and a firm peace infringiblie to be kept between both Empires. In this point, Heraclius being a Christian Prince was no more ashamed to deliver the Kingdom of Persia to a wicked and rank rebellious person, Traitor to his own Father, and Brother (being now throughly weakened with the losses of so many unlucky battles, and now most certainly in his own hands, specially the King himself trusting to his legs and fleeing, if he could have used his good fortune & victory when it was offered unto him) and to buy a dishonourable cowardly peace, by consenting to such a wicked deed: then that wicked Barbarian & disloyal younker was, by such undue & detestable means to pull the kingdom from them to himself. Such desire of principality reigned in the one, & so great love slothful idleness in the other.  
Cosdroes' therefore and Medarses with their wives being aprehended and brought back from whence they were fled, were cast into prison, and within awhile after, by the commandment of Syrochis, both put to death. In whom appeared a cruel example of Fortune's variableness. 
Horrible and unnaturable murder.  A goodly precedent and warning for Princes, to mark and consider upon, in nominating their successor, that they at no hand rejecting the stout and valiant, elect and choose tender weaklings and effeminate Meycokes. For nothing so soon moveth a noble and fierce heart to furious impatience and indignation, as (being stout and courageous) to be rejected and not accounted of, among his own friends. All things in Persia by means of this League appeased and set in order, and Syria and jerusalem with the other Provinces restored to the Roman Empire, Mahomet accompanied with a pompous train, met with Heraclius in his return whomwarde from these wars, and of him desired some Country for him, and his Soldiers to inhabit in, which suit and request at the emperors hands he obtained. Not long after, it happened that when the Soldiers were paid their wages, the Arabians repined, and found themselves aggrieved, that they were defrauded and cut short of their due stipend and ordinary allowance. Which coming to the ears of the chief Paymaster, he more rashly and arrogantly, then wisely and considerately answered, that there was scantly enough to pay the Roman and Gréeque soldiers, 
First cause of grudge between the Christians and Saracens  much less for such a rascal company of Dogs as they were. Which words within awhile after, were almost the subversion and ruin of all Christendom, insomuch that even till this day they bear a grudge of revengement for this injury in their minds against us. Such a heap of mischiefs many times doth the overthwartinge wilfulness of one rash person breed, specially when stout and warlike fellows shynk themselves apparently injuried. For the Arabians swelling with anger, and incensed with fell disdain for this reproachful and open contumely, departed into Syria, and joined themselves to Machomettes train and faction. Whereat Mahomet glad to see his power thus increased, went the fourth time against Mecca, determining with might and main to besiege it. The Magistrates of Mecca perceived well enough his purpose and what he pretended, wherefore with greater preparation and stronger power than before, the whole body almost of the City bend themselves to repulse his invasion. Between whom there was at the river of Bredine a sore and terrible conflict, wherein Mahomet got the victory, and slew of the nobility and chief Citizens of Mecca (beside a very great number of the Communality) three hundred persons: 
Mahomet beginneth to ruffle.  in somuch that at this battle the whole nobillytie of Mecca were in manner all slain. And so Mahomet like a triumphant Conqueror entered, and took possession of the fair City of Mecca, fortifying the same with a garrison of his own appointment, & after, departing with his army thence, he laid siege to Hunaimum, and wan it, dividing the spoil thereof (which was very great) among his Soldiers. After that, he besieged Tarsus, which City after he had all in vain battered the space of a whole month, he raised his siege, and returned into the maigne Country of Arabia and took first Itraripe otherwise called jetripe, and after that Medina a Mart town well peopled with wealth jews. And granting the spoil thereof to his Soldiers, he ranscaked and made havoc of the town: but as for all the jews which partly in the city and partly in other places of Arabi (because they being skilful in the divine law greatly withstood his attempts & proceedings) he hated deadly, & in the end in.xi. battles them utterly vanquished, and destroyed. Thence returning to Itraripe, he appointed Azeib his Lieutenant of Mecca, who entered into the City with a great rout of Arabians or Saracens. For Mecca then was and yet is, as well because of an opinion of great ancienty (for it is thought to be builded by Ishmael or else by Abraham himself) as also for, the bigness of the City and resort of people most noble and famous. Then again within the same year, discharging the said Azeib of his office, he appointed Moad the Son of Gadel Lieutenant of the same City in his room: with this commandment, that after Mahomet his death he should descend and maintain his law, and diligently look that the same should of the people be reverently observed, and so in the mean season to minister judgement and execution of his laws to the Mecchyans. All things in this sort being set in good frame and order, he removed to Tambicum, and there builded a Temple, which is to be seen at this day. Thence he sent an army under the conduct of Zalid and Malid two of his chief Captains against Alozaid the Son of Almathaliph, King of Aliendel, whom by force of arms they overcame, and made tributary. And thus all Arabia being brought in subjection, he commanded Eubocar with part of his Host to go to Mecca (he himself lying still at Itraripe) and charged him that he should leave never a mother's Son alive in it, nor suffer any foreigner to enter saving only such as willingly would obey his Law and believe his doctrine. For his meaning and intent was, (as afterward he brought it to pass) that Mecca should be the Metropolitan City of his religion and Empire. And thus within a short space, Mecca was replenished with none but mahometans. And not only Mecca but all Arabia besides (as they are people by nature light of belief and new-fangled) embraced his pestilent errors. And from that time, all they which yielded themselves to that Sect, were called by the name of Saracens, both because that error sprung up and was first begun by the Saracens, and also for that, Mahomet persuaded them that all the promises, in the Scriptures promised to the Seed of Abraham, belonged & appertained to them. Being puffed up with arrogance by reason of this good success in his affairs, he sent Ambassades to Kings and Princes near adjoining, advising them to embrace his Religion, and unto them addressed his letters, sealed with a Signet of Silver, wherein were engraven these words: Mahomet the messenger of God: namely to the Emperor of Constatinople, to the King of Persia, the King of Egypte and to other Princes. afterward he created sour Tribunes or chief Captains in wars commonly called admirals, which had every one under them many Peticapitaines and Centurions: and these four he would commonly use to call the sharp sword of God, and them he commanded to go into the four parts of the world, every one by himself a several way, and to kill all such as repugned his Law. There names were, Ebubezer, Omar, Ozmen and Ali the Son of his uncle Salutelib, unto whom he also joined in marriage Fatema, his daughter in Law by his first wife.  
Of these four, Ebubezer, called of some Vbequar and of some other Buback or Eubocar, father in Law to Mahomet took his voyage to Palestina, and there laid Siege to a certain town called Muchea, the captain whereof was one Theodorus Begarius who had the rule of the town in the behalf and name of Caesar. Who gathering together his power, suddenly set upon the Saracens with such valiant courage and force, that many of them being slain, the residue like tall fellows ran away. At which time, 〈◊〉 third Ideses of March, Mahomet died, in the year of our salvation .637. when he had reigned ten years, in the house of Aissa his wife, in the City Medina, and in the very same bed wherein he was wont to sleep and take his rest. His body without any Princely furniture or ceremonial solemnity, was shrined and lapped in a white Sheet three times double, and so being chested in an iron coffin, was after a homely sort buried: where afterward his kinsfolks and Allies edified a sumptuous and magnifical Temple of brick work, and arched the same with a vault so pargetted with Lodestones (whose nature is to draw iron unto it) that the iron Coffin wherein Mahomet his body was enclosed, was drawn up, even unto the top of the Church and there hangeth. For which cause that place is yet with great devotion and pilgrimage worshipped of all the East. They say that while he was banished his Country, going once on Pilgrimage into Mauritania Tingintana, he crossed the Seas over into Spain. But when he undestoode that Bishop Isidore laid wait to have caught him, he immediately shifted thence and conveyed himself away. Upon his death bed, he appointed Ali his son in law to be his Successor and the Caliph (that is to say the chief Prelate) of his Sect and unto him together with his daughter, he committed the whole charge of his body. But Eubocar his father in law stopped them a tide, in that matter, alleging that for as much as Mahomet deceased in his house, and by his only means had stepped up to such credit, wealth, estimation and government, as being bolstered, maintained and preferred by his countenance and friendship, none other by good reason was fit to succeed than he that had been his chief supporter. Against whom Ali durst not once open his mouth to reply, because Eubocar himself was a ●an of great power and also his kinsmen Omar and Ozmen took part with him, which were men valiant and factious, whose words would be heard and whose commandments before his, would be obeyed. Who forasmuch as by good right they judged the kingdom to appertain unto them, being Coadiutours to Mahomet in the exploit of all his affairs, had leifer have Eubocar succeed, being old & their near Kinsman then Ali being young and in his lusty years, who might perchance reign so long, that no hope ever to enjoy the Kingdom by the order and course of nature should be left to them, and also for that he was nothing of kin unto any of them. Wherefore Eubocar was made high bishop of Mahomet his Sect: who immediately after his creation, departing out of his own Territories with a great Army, discomfited the Roman Garrisons, and returning into Arabia with victory, died, not without some suspicion of poison, when he had reigned not fully three years, and without any princely funerals buried near to Mahomet. After him succeeded Homar, who (as we before showed) was his Kinsman. Hesubdued Bosra the chief city of all Arabia with many more, and conquered all the country as far as Gabata. At which success of the Saracens, the Emperor Heraclius greatly storming sent his Brother Theodorus with a great army against them. Who encountering in a bloody battle with Homar, was overcome and fledto Emessa. Heraclius hearing tidings of this heavy chance, furnished out Baanes with a greater power against them, who encamped himself near Emessa. Where the Saracens setting upon him with great force and violence, were by him vanquished, insomuch that they were fain to trudge into the borders of Damascus, and lodging their camp by the bank side of the river Bardanes made such outrageous roads and incursions into the country adjoining, that no man was able to repress their fury nor withstand their invasion. Wherefore Heraclius mistrusting any good success in the pursuit of further wars, and having great diffidence in his own power, fearing also his own life and safety if he should any longer stay within that Province and Country (for he was at that time in Jerusalem, out of which, since the League and composition made with Persia he had not departed) took away with him all the precious Shrines and snmptuous Ornaments of the Temple of Jerusalem, lest the barbarous Enemies should despoil them, and returned again to Constantinople.  
The next year, the Saracenes laid siege to the City Damascus, wherewith Baanes (who defended the City with the said emperors Garrisons) being greatly moved, desired Theodorus Sacellarius (Lieutenant for the emperors Majesty in Assyria) to come to aid and assist him. Which he making haste to do, was by the way surprised by the Saracenes and discomfited.  
The Soldiers under Baanes, not willing to serve under a captain of small credit and countenance, but rather desirous to have a Governor of most high power and authority, saluted him their Emperor. But they which came with Sacellarius and escaped the hands of the Saracenes in their last bickering, willing to keep their true allegiance to Heraclius, departed thence, and would not in any wise consent to the deprivation and deposing of their lawful Prince and Emperor. The number of Baanes his Soldiers was 4000 And Sacellarius had almost as many.  
The Saracenes having intelligence of this variance and division among the Roman Soldiers, discamped from the place where they were lodged, and set upon them. The bickering was sore on both sides for a while, but (the Wind blowing full in the faces of the Roman Host which in that dry and sandy Country raised up the dust) they neither could see their Enemies, nor scantly fetch their breath. Which opportunity the Saracenes not neglecting, but taking the same to their most advantage and commodity, put the imperials to flight, in which chase, they fléeinge through thick and thin by dangerous ways and sleep places did almost all perish and were drowned in the River Ermeta.  
Which lucky victory so puffed up the haughty minds of the proud Saracenes that they advanced their Army against Damascus, 
Damasens won by Saracenes  and winning that City, subdued and brought all Phoenicia under their subjection. Then they made preparation to go into Egipte, which hearing the Romans, who were Lords and possessors of that Province, appointed Cyrus' bishop of Alexandria to be Chievetayne: who sending a solemn Ambassade to the Saracenes for peace, obtained it upon condition that he should pay unto them yearly a Tribute of .200000. Crowns. And so for the space of three years they were quiet and received no kind of molestation at their hands.  
But the Emperor Heraclius understanding this gear and thinking this composition greatly sounded to his dishonour, sent for Cyrus' home again to Constantinople, and in his steed made Emanuel an Armenian, ruler over EGYPT, who flatly and plainly denied the payment of any money, before by Cyrus promised to the Saracenes.  
Wherefore in great displeasure they invaded Egypt with a buyge power, and Emanuel with a small company for his safety went to Alexandria. But Heraclius to late now, and to his cost being taught, that promise and faith ought to be kept and performed even to the Enemies, when he well saw that he had not strength enough, to match in battle against such mighty foes, sent Cyrus again to the common supplications should be made during the whole month of September, and after the same ended, the whole volume of Mahomet his law should be openly red to the people.  
He was tall of stature, brown coloured, bald headed, thin bearded and the same some what inclining to whiteness, and was buried near to Mahomet. But before he died, feeling himself so sore wounded that he despaired of recovery, he appointed for his Successor Ozmen: who also had been a great furtherer and favourer to Mahomet in all matters, and had twice been his Son in Law. For he married his two daughters, which both deceased without children, in the life time of Mahomet, which dignity he chiefly attained through gifts and bribery. For receiving at the hands of Homars Treasurer all his money and goods, he frankly distributed both it and all that he himself had left unto him by his Parents among his Soldiers.  
Ozmen therefore being invested the third Bishop after Mahomet, sent the next year following a huge army under the conduct of Hucba into Africa, against the Lord Gregory, chief and supreme governor of all that Province. He being overcome in battle, and Carthage also subverted, he united all that Province to his other Saracenicall Dominions. But fearing to be surprised and taken napping with some sudden Alarm out of Europa, if they should lie long in Carthage, they dislodged thence and removed to Tunice, a City standing within the Bay of Golet, and there rousting themselves for a season, greatly enlarged the same.  
But afterward receiving a commandment from Ozmen that they should not devil in any Port town or other places upon the Sea Coast, (because he had taken such agreement and order with the Emperor, they departed six and thirty miles from the Sea and about a hundredth from Tunice where they builded themselves a City called Cairoan.  
After this, in the third year of this man's reign, Muavias' (who was we showed before was Lieutenant of Egypte) with a Navy of a thousand and seven hundredth (or as some say) with seven hundredth Ships only, arrived in Cypress, and taking by force the noble City Constantia, spoiled the whole Island. But being certified that Carcozir one of the Emperor Constans his Captains, was coming against him with a great fleet, for fear of further harm, he departed thence and planted his Siege before another City in the same Island named Aradum, where he nothing prevailed. Seeing therefore his purpose to quail, he brought back his Host to Winter in Damascus.  
In the mean while Ozmen caused the odd papers and Schedules of Mahomet (before by Homars procurement collected together) to be brought into a better order and to be divided into Chapters, making of them a Book which is called the Alcorane, wherein all the opinions and Institutions of Mahomettes Sect are contained and at large specified.  
The next Spring after, Muavias' with a greater Navy than before, arrived in Cypress, and assaulted the City of Aradum, which at length after many battryes he wan: and permitting the Inhabitants to go whither they would without hurt or bodily harm, he razed the City to the ground and laid all the Island waste and left it dispeopled. At the same time also, an other army of Saracens under the conduct of Busurre, invaded Isauria and spoiled the whole Country with fire and sword, and returned home from thence with five thousand Prisoners.  
After these so many overthrows and miserable discomfitures received, Constance Caesar desired a truce for two years of Muavias': which being not obtained, while Muavias' prepared a great navy at Tripoli a City of Syria, to invade the Provinces and Territories belonging to the Roman Empire, his purpose by the worthiness and valiant demeanour of two Brothers was for a little while frustrate. 
A valaunt enterprise.  Who breaking open the prisons, wherein a great number of Christians were, set them all at liberty: insomuch that they suddenly giving an onset on the Saracens, killed a marvelous number of them, and putting the rest to flight, with victory ran to their ships, and taking so many of them as would serve to transport them, they set the rest on fire, and came save into Thracia.  
But Muavias' nothing dismayed with this mischance and overthrow, 
A lamentable slaughter.  prepared a greater na●y, and furnished the same with all habilimentes and Munitions necessary, with whom he landed at Phoenicia a Haven of Lycia, where Constance with his Navy lay: and giving the charge upon him, made such a slaughter of the Romans, that the Sea was read with the blood of them that were slain. Constance disguising himself in the habit and apparel of a poor man, fled in a Small ship with a few others in his company to Constantinople: Which victory set Muavias' in such a hoygh and conceit, that he thought nothing invincible, or able to withstand him. Where upon he took Rhodes, and pulled down the huge Image of the Sun called Colossus Solis, which Chares was in making (as Pliny saith) twelve years, 
Of our english money that Sum a mounteth to, 40000 li.  and the charges thereof drew to three hundredth Talentes. The brass of this Image being bought by a certain jew of Emessa, was somuch as nine hundred Camels could carry  
The Saracenes carried away thence not only this Image which was in height .70. Cubits: but innumerable others. For Pliny writeth that in that I'll there were beside this coloss of the Sun .73 thousand Statues or Images, and a hundredth less Colossuses. Having spoiled Rhodes, they cut their course along by the Sea Agaeum, and plagued the Cyclades with like calamity. At this time also laid General of an other army of Saracenes, entered into the borders of Armenia, and wasted all, far and near till he came to Mount Caucasus.  
And Muavias' returning from Rhodes, furnished a navy with all things necessary to invade Sicily, which wasted and ruynated the Country with Sword and fire without mercy, till Olympus the exarch of Italy (for so was he that had the governance over Italy at that time for the Emperor of Constantinople called) encountering with them in a bloody Conflict, with much effusion of Christian blood discomfited and expelled them. In which battle he so eagrely fought, & was so fore wearied that he tell sick and shortly after died.  
Muavias' himself levying an Army by land, conducted them into Cappadocia to besiege Coesarea the head City of that Province. But before he could achieve any notable exploit worthy to be remembered, hearing that Ozmen the Caliph was dead, in hope to be his Successor, retyered with his Host back again. This Ozmene in the twelfth year of his Pontifical dignity being in his own house beset and besieged with a company of Saracenes which would have had Ali to be Caliph, slew himself, because he would not fall into their hands. He by chance lost the Ring of Mahomet, which all the Caliphes before him wore: and caused an other to be made of Silver, wherein by his commandment were engraven these words: O PERTINACES, O POENITENTES. He was white of colour, grave and courteous of visage, a long Beard and of a mean stature highly and dearly beloved was he of the common people, both before and after he embraced this Sect, and got very great wealth by Merchandise.  
Notwithstanding he was always very liberal, yea rather magnificent and honourable, and (as we have showed) disbursed and gave bribes largely to the Soldiers that he might obtain the Pontificate. He lived lxxxvij years and was buried in the night without any Funeral pomp because he slew himself.  
Therefore after his death there arose great contention among the Saracenes, about the election of a new bishop. Some would have Ali to succeed him, some Muamad son to Ozmen, and some Muavias'. But Ali raised wars against Muamad, and prevailed against him, so that he was installed and made bishop by all men's consent: saving only Muavias'. Who reposing great trust and confidence in the Egyptian and Assyrian Soldiers, (whose prowess and magnanymytie he had sufficiently tried aforetime in so many Battles) made sharp wars against him, colourably pretending that he took the same in hand only to revenge the death of Ozmen.  
When both the Armies were come to the River Euphrates, Muavias' having more skill in warlike policies, and also having old beaten Soldiers under him, so fortified and entrenched his Camp near to the River side, and the City Babylon, that neither could he be enforced by his adversary to fight unless he would himself, and also his Army should not be destitute of water, (whereof in that Region there is great scarcity) nor yet be unprovided of victayles, and moreover needed not to fear any Alarms behind at their backs. Whereas in the mean while Ali his Army, was extremely pinched for lack of water. And so for the space of eleven Months keeping his Soldiers within the Trenches of his Camp, he wearied his Enemy and lyngered the time only now and then with Skirmishes, till at length by the intercession of certain Priests and others skilful in the Law of Mahomet, order was taken between them, that the whole cause should be decided by the judgement and award of two old men.  
On Ali his side was chosen Alascates, and for Muavias' part Alascius. These two coming to a Town called Algendel, to sit upon this weighty matter of both their titles, the one thought it necessary that Ali should be disgraded and deposed from his pontifical dignity, and the other stiflye held opinion that he was a man most worthy for the office. Thus pleading to and fro, neither absolutely determining nor fully concluding any atonement, Ali and Muavias' returned again either of them to his own Campe. And never ceased with often Skirmishing to molest and kill one an other, spoiling and wasting one an others Countries till at length Ali in a certain Temple near Cufa a City of Arabia was by the insidious drifts and Ambushes of Muavias' slain, and in the same buried, for which cause the place at this day is called Massadale which is as much to say, as the house of Ali. In his Ring he had this inscription: Cord syncero Deum Dominum veneror. He was short and low of Stature, his Beard was side and long, his Arms and Legs full of hair, and in his going never lifted up his Eyes.  
After Ali was dead, the Citizens of Cufa and Aratha created Alhaccem (his eldest Son by his wife Fatema, the Daughter of Mahomet) Bysshope: a man in all points of bodily feature and comely shape, resembling his Grandfather Mahomet. He with an army, marched against Muavias', but when both the Hosts were ordered in battle array ready to give the onset, and the vanguard of the one standing full against the front of the other, whether it were because he feared the doubtful hazard of battle or else (as some do writ) that he was overcome with the goodness and integrity of nature, unwilling that so great effusion of blood and destruction of men should be made for his sake, he voluntarily went and submitted himself to Muavias', acknowledging him to be his Superior. Being thus reconciled one to the other, they went both together to Cufa, and there finding great store of money and treasure, they departed thence to jetrib, where Muavias' with his own hands crowned Alhaccem with the royal Diadem and called him King, because he well knew that he should not live long. For within six months after his Coronation he died being poisoned by the same Muavias'. His Poesy engraven in his Signet was: Solus Deus potens est. Thus Muavias' having now dispatched and rid out of the way all his adversaries, reigned alone. Having thus set his affairs in order, he invaded the frontiers of the Roman Empire. But Constantius sending unto him for peace, had the same granted, conditionally that Constantius should pay unto him every day ten pounds of gold, 
Peace dearly bought.  and a Slave with a Horse. At this time Damascus was the chief Seat and Metropolitan City of the Saracenicall Empire. But in this their so great success and felicity, there arose dissensions among themselves for their religion, by reason of the variety and repugnance of Mahomettes scrolls and Schedules. The Persians, being (as we have showed) now made Saracens, held opinions much differing from them that followed Homars Alcorane in Syria. Wherefore Muavias' with his power speeding him into Persia, suppressed that Sect and established his own faction, which bore all the sway in Syria, and appointed an order, 
Lusty allowance, only to allure men to his Sect. Ambitious Traitor.  that the Soldiers of his Sect should have allowance of two hundredth pence by the day, whereas the Persians had but only thirty. Then invading Cilicia, he spoiled all the Country with sword and fire.  
And when he was returned to Damascus, Sapor Praetor of all such places in Persia as yet acknowledged the Roman Empire, now traitorously revolting from the Emperor, sent unto Muavias', one Sergius master of the horsemen, with request, that he would aid him to the Empire of Constantinople. Who being now come to Muavias' his presence and showing the effect of his Commission for which he was sent, behold, there came also an Ambassador from the Emperor to Muavias', whose name was Andrew, promising unto him in Caesar's behalf large and ample rewards, so that he would not aid nor further the proceedings of Sapor. Muavias' hearing both their errands and their offers, answered: that foras much as he accounted both of them for no better than his enemies, 
He that hath most money shall have most friendship.  he would aid and take part with him that would give most. And so Sergius giving more than Andrew would, Muavias' entered into a league with him. Andrew taking his leave, in his way homeward intercepted Sergius as he was returning into Persia and hanged him on a gibbet: hoping and persuading himself, that now the party to whom the promise was made being rid out of the way, Muavias' with a safe conscience (retaining & keeping still the rewards already to him given) might and would dodge & find cavillations with Sapor that he was discharged of his promise. But there was more constancy & faithfulness in the barbarous Infidel, than the greeks wit could conceive or foresee. For Muavias', meaning to keep touch and promise' inviolably, sent a band of Arabians to aid him under the conduct of Fadala, who being killed by a fall from his horse, he appointed in his steed his Son jazid captain for that expedition: by which power and army, Chalcedonia was miserably afflicted and Armaria a City of Phrygia taken: and leaving in it a garrison of five thousand Saracens (because Winter approached) they returned with their Host into Syria.  
In this mean season the Emperor although Winter were now at hand and all places covered with Snow sent Andrew with a small crew of Soldiers to expulse the garrysons of the Saracens and to recover Armaria. The Greeques therefore suddenly scaled the walls and brake into the City without any resistance, and to revenge their many overthrows and discomfitures before time received slew all the Saracens within, who suspecting no such thing, kept within their houses, cowering over the fire in that extreme cold weather. After this victory gotten by the imperials, Constantius being now come into Italy out of Grecia, took his progress strait toward Rome, where he taking a diligent view of all things, fell to the spoil, and carried away with him all such ancient monuments and works as were of Marble or brass, 
Rome spoiled.  and generally whatsoever might delight and content the eye, and lading his Ships therewith, sent it first unto Naples and from thence to the City Syracuse in Sicily. So that he took away from the City more ornaments in seven days space, than so many barbarous Nations had done in. CClviij. years before, for there were so many since the first inclination of the Roman Empire. During his abode there, leading his life effeminately & libidinously and looking to receive the subsidy and tribute that he had with much rigour and cruelty exacted and assessed the Cities and Islands of Italy to pay, 
Emperor murdered.  in so much that many were spoiled not only of their goods but also of their wives and children, he was by his own people slain and murdered. After whom succeeded in the Empire his Son Constantine, whom the Saracens perceiving to be a Coward and unwarlike person, privily made preparation for a navy to invade Thracia and Greece, if any tumult or seditious uproar should fortune to kindle in Constantinople. But because all things were there quiet, they sailed into Sicily, wherein the late spoils of Rome and of all Italy were laid and hoardward up: and with sudden force took the city Syracuse which was not defended nor kept with any garrison. And when they could not roost there in safety by reason of the nearness of Italy, they shipped all the ornaments and treasure that was in Syracuse, and with incredible richesse returned into Egypt. Albeit there be some which writ that Constantine hearing of the death and murder of his father Constanoius, sailed into Sycilie and carried the Spoils from thence with him to Constantinople.  
After this, an other populous army of Saracens entering into Africa, had such success that they destroyed and wasted all the Country near the Sea coasts (for a great part of the main land and middle soil was already in their subjection) and haryed away with them into slavery and thraldom .800000. Prisoners. And on an other side Muavias' furnished out a huge Host under the conduct of Muamades and Caises, which subdued Lydia and Cilicia two other of the Roman Provinces. And within a while after, to th'intent he might conquer & subjugate Constantinople, he sent another army after the other, whereof Saeuus was General, which being joined to the other, marched both directly toward the city Constantinople & girded it about with a terrible stege. 
Constantinople besseged seven years.  And for there more strength, he appointed a navy to help them, which stopped all the passages and places from the West promontory of Hebdomum to Cyglobium. With all this force they oftentimes gave terrible assaults to the city, but their attempts were all in vain. This siege lasted from the month of April till September.  
fleet left, which then vexed Crete, under the guydaunce and conduct of Fadall and Cadall. Through these good fortunes and prosperous successes, the Majesty of the Roman Empire seemed eftsoons to flourish, and somewhat to revive and recover his pristinate glory. But Muavias' having thus concluded a peace and league, which to the Christians was most pernicious (because the Saracens being now weak and without force might have been utterly oppressed and easily vanquished if Caesar had not more delighted in present Idleness and quiet rest then studying for the long tranquillytie of his Common wealth, which by no means is made more longer of continuance and safer with barbarous nations then by perfect victory) turned his power & made his quarrel against the Mardaites, and dispossessing them from their high descrying places in the Mountains which before they enjoyed, he studied and bend his mind to appease certain controversies and Sects newly sprung up about his religion. Therefore he called a general Counsel or Synod of his sect, unto whom by public proclamation he commanded all the learned men of his Empire, and such as had any writing or Schedule either of Mahomet or of any his predecessors, Bishops before him, to come and bring the same writings with them. This Tartarical Synod was holden and celebrated at Damascus, where (when as nothing could be determined by reason of the contrariety of repugnant sentences) he commanded six of the wisest in the company by the common consent of them all to be picked out, & so there were chosen Mulcine, Boari, Buor, Anoeci, Atermind & David. These six being shut up together into one house, with all such writings as were thither brought, he gave strait charge that they should lay their heads together & out of these writings gather into one volume such acts & sayings of Mahomet as should some to have any likelihod of truth. And when they had made six volumes, the residue of the writings be caused to be thrown into a river, which were so many that 200. Camels were laden with the carriage of them away. Then he appointed by a law a grievous pain & punishment to as many as in thought, 
By whom Alcoran was clouted together.  word or deed believed otherwise then in those six Alcoranes was prescribed. Of the which six volumes, afterward proceeded and sprung up sour Sects of Saracens: which are called Melicians; Asafians, Alambelians & Buanifians. The Aphrycans were Melicians: the Arabians and Damascenes, Asafians: the Armenians and Persians, Alambelians: the Alexandrians & Assyrians were Buanifians. In Cayre the greatest City of Egypt, all these Sects (no man agaynsaying) are used and embraced. When Muavias' had finished & taken this order in his matters at Damascus which was the head seat of his Empire, he died and was there buried. He was the first of the Saracen captains that with Ozmen (during Homars reign) entered into the Roman provinces with an host, and was the first that enlarged & amplified the limits of the Saracenicall Empire as far as Egypt and Aphrica westward, into Mesopotamia Eastward, and into Asia northward, and was the first that constituted a certain seat royal at Damascus: which city for the fertility of the soil and pleasantness of the air far excelleth any other. He used first of his race, to have Slaves and eunuchs after a princely state & guise to stand bore headed before him: for he was a man altogether martial and warlike, and in the achieving of his devices prudent and wise. His colour was white, his face pleasant and grave, his eyes of divers colours, his stature mean, his Beard always black, for ever as it began to wax grey, he died it and conserved it in his former state. He lived lxxvij. years, and reigned twenty and four. His Signet which he carried about with him, had in it this Posy engraven: O Deus ignosce mihi.  
Of learning he was altogether ignorant, in so much that he could not writ his own name: whereas otherwise he had by nature a very profound wit. Wherefore it is reported that Mahomet on a time, making his prayers at a banquet in presence of many (as his custom was) said these words: O God teach Muavias' to writ & to number, and defend him from all dangers. By which words, that crafty Pseudoprophete who knew the nature of Muavias' to be fierce and prompt withal, showed and signified two things. First, that he, if he had the aid of any learning, might greatly help and further his Sect. For they which can writ, can also read and thereby become wiser. Then because he saw him to be of such a fierce courage that he was like to adventure and object himself to many perils and hazards, he desired of God to teach him the Art of numbering, whereby he might scan and observe due times and tempestivities, and to have the skill to take the occasions that should be fittest for the exploiting of his affairs when they fell: and for the same cause he desired of God to protect & deliver him from all dangers. But he being a man crafty enough of himself and naturally given to policy needed not these helps.  
After that Muavias' was dead, immediately his son jezid was saluted Bishop and King, who achieved no notable act in his time worthy of remembrance. For he was a man altogether given to sloth, idleness and riot, and moreover was sickly and of a body nothing lusty: saving that he put many of the nobility of Arabia to death. He loved his own Sister lividinously, and was greatly delighted in learning and Poetry, and made many verses, a most spiteful contemner of Mahomet's Law and every other Religion. During this man's reign, Mutar whom he had made Precedent over the Province of Persia, perceiving his drowsy sluggishness and desire of eas● openly protested himself to be a Prophet, & practised tyranny therein: and of the line of this Mutar, the Kings of Persia which at this day are called Sophi, are descended. jezid his Poesy was: DEUS EST MEUS DOMINUS. He reigned three years, and died at Arrane, being of the age of forty years, when the Citizens of Cufa had called home Hocem the Son of Ali, intending to created him bishop: but Abdalam the Son of jezid in the fields of Carball near Cufa, treacherously lying in wait, slew him, and there was he buried. In remembrance of which thing, there was at his grave and Sepulchre afterward builded a City called Carbala, called so of the name of the field wherein the fact was done. Hocem left twelve Sons behind him when he died, that is to say, Zeinal Abadine, Zeinal Muamedes, Baguer Muamedes, Giafar Cadeneg, Giafar Musa, Cazine Musa, Hali Muceratius, all, Muamedes Taguin, Muamedes Halinaguin, Alle Haceme Asquerine, Haceme Muamedes Mahadine: which were in divers places buried, that is to wit, some near to their great grandfathers father Mahomet, some at Bagadat, & some at Herine: but as for Muamedes Mahadine, 
Doting belief of Persians.  the Persians do affirm not to be yet dead, & do hold opinion, that he shall come mounted on horseback to declare and show the law to all Nations, and shall convert all people, and that all this shall first begin in the city of Massadale where the body of his grandfather Ali lieth buried. And therefore they have always in that city a horse ready to receive him, whom, after the end of their prayers and orisons, they lead with Torch light to the Church: and upon one certain day which is among them kept most festival and solemn they bring this horse to the Temple where Ali is buried with as much pomp as may be, beseeching and making petition unto the same Ali, that he would as speedily as may be, sand unto them this his Nephew whom they look for. Unto the which feast, there is resort of people from di- together with the opinion that was conceived of him and his Sect, so incensed and swelled his ambitious mind, that he first of all others took upon him the name of a Miralmumine, which word in the Arabian language signifieth the Prince of all believers: which name afterwards our Historiographers depraved & corruptly called Miramuline. He also builded the large and most e noble city of Morocco near to the foot of mount Atlas, 
Morocco builded.  and appointed it to be the chief Key and Metropolytane City of all his Kingdom: Notwithstanding many do affirm that it was built by josippus the Son of Tesfine, and some say by an other. Against them Abdimelick (partly for that he saw him to procure no hurt nor attempt any hindrance to his proceedings) and partly because he was wrapped in heaps of troubles elsewhere and had more irons in the fire than he could well temper, attempted nothing. For although he had supplanted Dadack with all his faction and adherentes and with victory returned to Damascus, yet could he not long enjoy that victory nor brook it quietly, because there began such a plague and pestilential mortality that had almost quite destroyed all the Saracenicall Nation.  
Beside this plague, the people were greatly pinched with famine in all his Countries. And the Mardaites getting again the possession of Mount Libanus, enlarged their limits as far as Jerusalem: and moreover the principality of Persia, usurped by Mutar, much disquieted his troubled mind. Abdimelick weltringe in the surges of this froward Fortune, and fearing to be overwhelmed with some greater mischance, sent a solemn Ambassade to justinian then Emperor, being of the age of sixteen years, for a confirmation of the peace and League that Muavias' struck with Constantine, and farther to request him that the Mardaites might be dispossessed and driven out of Libanus, which thing if the rour would grant, he promised that he would every day give unto the Romans in the name of a Tribute, ten pounds of Gold, a Slave and a goodly fair Horse. And moreover in consideration of the confirmation of this peace which he so earnestly desired, 
Tribute of Saracenes  (to th'end that Caesar might the better expulse and rid the Mardaites which now were not above twelve thousand in number out of Libanus) he gave and granted unto him the one half of his yearly Tributes of Cyprus, Armenia and Iberia. This peace being confirmed and he delivered out of the fear of the Mardaites (a fierce and outrageous people) he sent Ciafa with a great Army against Mutar, who under the pretext and colour of Religion practised tyranny and extort regiment in Persia. Which expedition and voyage had very unlucky end: for Mutar with an Host marching to meet him, vanquished him and discomfited all his power, whereby he wan a greater estimation and credit then ever he had before.  
Abdimelick to th'intent he might from a nearer place survey and behold how matters prospered in Persia, goeth into Mesopotamia: where he was again with many calamities & adverse brunts sore crushed. For the Emperor justinian (the Sclavoys partli yielding themselves unto his mercy and partly tamed by dent of Sword) picking out of the stoutest Gallants in all that Nation, a crew of. 30000. or there about, mustered and took up Soldiers apace for his wars: and so trusting to their valiant service, broke the League lately made: making for the colour of his quarrel, the the money payable for his yearly Tribute had not the Roman stamp, but was of a new Arabian coin. Sending therefore his Lieutenant Leontius with this new levied army into Asia, subdued and brought under his subjection Iberia, Abania, Hyrcania and Media, which Regions were under the Saracenes Empire.  
At the same time also one Said raised sedition and rebelled against Abdimelick: against whom Abdimelick spéeding himself with an Army, so dismayed and terrified him, that he fell down on his Marybones and craved forgiveness. Whom Abdimelick with dissimuling countenance pardoned and seemed to forgive: but within awhile after he commanded him privily to be slain. At this same time also there arose an other tyrantie among the Saracenes, named Abdala Zubir, who sent his Brother Musub into Persia against Mutar: and of him Mutar was both vanquished and slain: albeit he enjoyed not the fruit of his victory long. For Abdimelick withal his power igoing against him, overcame and discomfited him and all his Host: and from thence holding on his way into Persia, brought all that Province under his subjection. Abdalas Zubir discouraged with the good success of his adversary, fled unto Mecca, after whom, Abdimelick sent Cagian with a great Army to pursue and take him, who by force winning the City Mecca, slew Zubir, and set the auntientest Idol of that city with the Temple also on fire.  
And thus, Abdimelick having recovered Persia, and dispatched out of the way his adversaries, and being alone in possession of the Saracenicall Sovereignty, (after he had oftentimes in vain, besought the Roman Emperor that he would not infringe the League between them concluded,) at length bend all his power against the Greeques which inferred war upon him against the Laws both of God and man, and over his army he appointed for General one Muamates. Who finding the Greeques at Sebastonople, hanged the Tables of the League upon a Spear point, and caused the same to be borne before him like an Ensign. And calling upon God to revenge the breaking and violation thereof (which were so solennelie made and confirmed by taking his holy name ●o witness) he in good order of battle gave the charge upon them. Albeit first he had corrupted the Sclauoy● with money. Of whom assoon as the battle was once begun néerehand xx. M. revolted from the Emperor & went to the Saracenes: which thing so appalled the Greeques, that they were easily overcome and put to flight, and in the chase were killed almost every mother's son. The Emperor justinian (for he was present himself at this conflict) dishonourably and shamefully by flight saving himself with a few others in his company, 
Christians justly plagued.  assoon as he came to Leucas, caused all the remnant of the new band of sclavonoys to be put to death and their dead carcases to be cast into the Sea, Whereupon, the saracenes afterward, without any damage not only recovered their own Territories before lost, but also invaded the residue of the Roman Provinces. Sabatius also a noble Senator, and Praetor of Armenia, understanding of the wrecks and overthrows of the Romans, revolted to the Saracens and betrayed into their hands the whole country of Armenia. neither did they yet cease to overrun the whole East, and to lead away the christians into servitude: for the part also of Persia, which yet acknowledged the Roman Empire was subdued by Cagian, and Muamates, with help of those Sclavonoy turning to his side, and entering into the Province of Thracia, spoiled it with Sword and fire pitifully: the Roman Empire being in the mean season with civil discords and intestine hatred so dissevered and torn asunder, that no man durst set in foot to withstand this outrage.  
The Lord Leoutius having exiled justinian into the isle Cherson, usurped the empire: and straightways sent a Lord of his country named john, with a navy to inhibit and stop the violent irruption of the African saracenes, which not content with the middle land that was granted unto them by league for their habitation, invaded a fresh the Country near about the Sea Coasts.  
This man vanquishing the Saracenes in battle, drove them out of the Roman Territories. But for as much as their power and wealth was dreadful and terrible in Syria and all the East, and news brought by sundry rumours that there was more aid coming from Abdimelik, to the aid of these Saracens in Africa, john thinking his power unable to defend and keep the possession of the province, went to Constantinople to fetch more aid from Leontius, leaving his host behind him in Africa. But while these things were to slowly purueighed and prepared by Leontius, Abdimelik understanding the state of his subjects in Africa, and sore moved with the late loss by them there sustained, furnished out a great Navy to recover the Province again. With whom the Roman fleet (thinking themselves not able to make their part good) departed thence, into Crete. Where the Chievetaines and Princes consulting together, thought it much sounded to their shame & dishonour to return home, having thus lost Africa and left the same open to their enemies: and partly moved with displeasure toward the Emperor which did so dreamingly provide for the furniture & supply of warlike affairs, egged the Mariners to revolt, and to salute Absimar Emperor, 
The Emperor shamefully abused by his own subjects.  whom they also called Tybarius. He in all haste speeding himself toward Constantinople with an army, and finding Leontius unprovided, without any stop wan the City, and taking Leontius, cut of his nose and cast him into prison. The Saracens forcibly enjoyed all Africa, and drove out all the Roman garrisons. The most part of them that then inhabited the places of Africa near the Sea, were of the Goths line.  
This Tiberius immediately after he was enthronyzed and made Emperor, sent his brother Heraclius with a huge army into Asia against the Saracenes. Who invading Syria pierced into the country as far as Samosata and wasting all the places near thereabout, slew néerehand of them two hundredth thousand, 
Slaughter of Saracens.  and taking there many prisoners and great booties, brought all the Country in great fear of him. And at the same time the Princes of Armenia, in a sedition killed all the Saracenes, which were in Armenia: and sending Ambassadors to Absimar, received the Romans again into their Province. Muamates nettled with these dealings, with a great power set upon them, brought them again under the Saracenicall obeisance, and burned the chief Princes and leaders of the people alive. Then he also invaded Cilicia, spoiling and ruynating it every where piteously but he escaped not himself scotfree. For Heraclius encountering with him, discomfited a great part of his host and took the rest prisoners, whom he sent bound to Constantinople to the Emperor. At which time Abdimelik died, in the xxi year of his reign. We showed before, that one Abedramon (descended of the Mauronion stock) conveyed himself into Mauritania in the beginning of Abdimelik his Pontificate, and was there in such estimation among his people and Sectaries, that all the Saracens dwelling in that Province reverenced him as an other Caliph or rather as one greater than a Caliph, but for as much as he intermeddled not with any bellicall insurrections and also was far of, Abdimelik did not persecute him so as he did others. But yet notwithstanding his name was great in Arabia. He dying, left a son behind him, named Vlite, who succeeded Abdimelik in the Pontificate, & was called the Muralmumine, in the year after the incarnation of Christ .708. During whose reign Armenia was once again brought under the Roman subjection, and the Saracens thence expulsed. The Arabians making an irruption into the Roman Provinces, took by force the city Mista with many Castles & fortified towns and with great booties and prays returned home. Then again under the conduct of Abatius they invaded Galatia and sacked it miserably: and the Emperor justinian being again restored to the Empire by Trebellius king of Bulgaria, the Saracens taking occasion by reason of these new tumults & commotions, issued out of Egypt with a greater preparation & power than they did before, and debellad all Lybia to the Ocean Sea. I call it now Lybia, because I have already showed that Africa was before by them taken, which is a part of Lybia: to th'end you may understand that I do not speak of a part only, which was already conquered, but of the whole region. For whereas Lybia or the whole country of Africa being almost on every side compassed about with water like an Island, is on the North environed with our Sea, on the West and South with the Atlantic Ocean, on the East with the East, read & Arabian Sea, and is joined to Asia by a little narrow part of dry land lying between the uttermost end of the. Arabian Gulf & our Sea: yet Egypt (which Province extendeth from the Cataracts and floodgates of the river Nilus to the mouth of the same) together with Aethiopia (which lieth above it) of many old writers, yea of late Authors also, is not reckoned into Africa. And as the river Nilus parteth the East part of this half Isle, that is to wit, Egypt & Aethiopia, where the large & mighty dominions of Presbyter john lie: so the river Nigir, springing (as many writ) from the same fountain, and having (as the other hath his course from the South into the North) so this from the East into the West, and falling into the Athlantique Ocean, parteth and separateth the most wealthy Kingdoms of the Nigrites from it, So that, the Lybia which we here mean, is contained within the bounds of Nilus and Nigir the Athlantique Ocean and our Sea. All which as far as it stretcheth from the West into the East, the buyge Mount Athlas cutteth and severeth a sunder: being at this day divided into three parts, Barbaria, Numidia and Lybia. Lybia which in the Arabian tongue is called Sarra, that is to say Desert, is bound on the south with the kingdoms of the Nigrites, on the North with the mount Athlas, on the East with the river Nilus & on the west with the Ocean. Numidia called in the Arabian tongue Biledulgerid, (which is to say, a Country wherein groweth great store of dates) stretching from the borders of Egypt to the Ocean, lieth South from the mountain Athlas. Barbary from the East to the West (contained within the same limits and borders) comprehendeth all that which lieth between Athlas and our Sea. And this is also divided into four Provinces: Mauritania Tingintana, which containeth the Kingdoms of Marrocco & Feze: Caesariensis, wherein is the king doom of Telensine: & the iii part both in thold time & now is properly called Africa, wherein in ancient time the Carthaginians flourished, containing now at this day the City Africa, Tunice and Tripoli. After this followeth Cirenes, which is comprehended in the kingdom of Bugia. At the first invasion and irruption made into this Province during the reign of Ozmen, the Saracens swarming out of Egypt won Cyrenaica & Africa. But making peace afterward with the Emperor, they were commanded to departed from all the places near to the Sea coasts, and so they removed further into the Confines of Numidia and Lybia, and in the reign of Muavias' they again entering into the Territories of the Carthaginians, subdued the country of Africa, all about the Sea coasts. And now advancing forward their Standards they invaded both the Mauritaines', & appointed for the limits of their Empire the Ocean & the river Nigir. Over which province Vlite them chief Bishop of the Mahumetane sect, made Mucas high deputée, & appointed unto him a strong power. But yet the part of Tingintana that lieth toward the straictes of Marrocke was under the rule of Roderike Visigotte king of Spain. For the Goths expulsing all the Roman garrisons were lords of the whole country of spain, from 300. years almost passed, acknowledging for their King none but this Roderick: who was not only King of both the Spain's, the nearer and furthér, but also possessed all that lay toward the straight Sea in Mauritania Tingintana. The Straictes in Africa, hath three Promontories, making two Bays or Elbows into the landward: and in Spain as many Promontories with so many bosoms or Elbows of the Sea. The famous and noble Cities by the Sea, in Spain, were Carteia situate by the Promontory Calpe, which afterward was called Tarifa: in Aphrica, Tingis, of whom Mauritania Tingintana hath his name, standing by the Promontory Abyle: and Cepta, called of Ptolomaeus, Essilissa.  
The Romans divided all Spain into two Provinces, and sent into them two Proconsulles, or Propretors: whereof the one governed the nearer and the other the further. But these parts were not always of one greatness: for when as they had not yet the whole possession of all Spain, the hither Spain was contained within the river Iberus and the Pyrenee Mountains: and all beyond Iberus was of the further Spain, which belonged to the Carthaginians. But after that they had driven out the Punic Garrysons out of every quarter of the Countraie, and had got the possession of all Spain, they called that which on the East and south is environed almost Ilandwise without Sea, on the West with the Athlantique Ocean, on the North with the Sea Cantabricum and the Pyrenee Mountains (excepting Lusitania and Betica) by the name of the nearer Spain: and those parts which be divided by the river Anas and compassed about with the Ocean as far as to the Asturians, they called the further Spain, calling that which marcheth upon the straicts, Betica, which now containeth Vandalusia & the Kingdom of Granado, & the which extendeth from the river Anas to the river Duria they called Lusitanie and all the hither part, Tarraconensis. Which tripartite division Geographers in their descriptions have observed. Over these three Provinces and also over the Asturians and Cantabrians which be on this side the Pyrenees, by the North ocean, and also over the Province called Narbonensis so far as the River of Rhone, which was then called Gallia Gottica, this Roderike Visigot was (as we have said king & governor at that time, when the Saracenes extended the limits of their dominion in Aphrica to the ocean, which was in the year of our Lord .712.  
This Roderick made Julian Earl of Cepta (descended of the blood of Visigottes, a man of great power and wealth in Spain and chief ruler over a certain Island now called Viridis, lying in the narrow Sea, and many other places aswell in Spain as in Tingintana) his high Deputy and warden in Betica and all other such places as were under his rule in Tingintana. Unto him he committed the whole charge, to defend Spain on that side from the invasions of the Saracenes, 
Beauty of a Woman. causeth much mischief.  and to keep the narrow Seas. This julyan had a Daughter named Caba, a beautiful young Lady, insomuch that for her parsonage she was no less pernicious to Spain, then fair Helena was to the Troyanes'. For Roderick falling in love with her, whether it were by force or by fraud (for it is reported both ways) made a breach into her virgynitie. Which unprincely trick she (as soon as she conveniently could) uttered and discovered unto her Father. Who dissimuling as though he had known nothing of this injury done to him in his Daughter, and keeping to himself the desire of just revenge till a time for his purpose convenient, desired leave of the King to depart the Courtand to go to Cepta, because being there (as he said) he could much better defeat the Saracens intended enterprises. Which request obtained, he trussed up all his furniture of household & with his wife went to Cepta. When he was come thither, feigning an excuse that his wife was sore sick, he desired the king to give Caba, his daughter leave to come home and see her languishing mother, who was never like to see her any more. For Caba with other Princes and Lords daughters (as the manner was) at that time waited in the Court. Having by this means received home his Daughter, he went to Mucas who was (as before we showed) the head ruler of all Lybya under Vlite, and unto him he opened from point to point the whole cause of his coming away from the Court, and promising to make him Lord of all Spain if he would give the adventure & take the enterprise in hand. Mucas showed the whole matter unto Vlite, because he durst not deal in such a weighty case, without his will and pleasure first known. Of whom he received this answer, that the matter propounded was of great importance and difficulty, and that it were not best in such a doubtful matter to give rash credit to a subtile person, and one altogether estranged from their Religion. Notwithstanding, to try the trust and faithfulness of the Earl, he was resolved, that the matter might be best assayed, by delivering unto him a small crew of Soldiers at the first: and if he sped well and had good success at the beginning, afterward more aid and greater power might be sent. Mucas although he were throughly persuaded by the Earls talk and motion, that allthings would sort to good effect, yet durst he not pass nor go beyond the contents of his Commission, prescribed by ulite. Wherefore he delivered unto julyan, one of his Captains named Tarife Auenzarca with a hundred Horsemen & 400. footmen. Who were all transported in four Ships, into a little Isle lying in that Elbow of Sea that the Promontory Calpe maketh, which I'll was afterward of this captain Tarife, called Gelriza Tarif. Unto this place julyan called and by gentle means alured all his friends, and kinsfolks, recomptinge unto them from point to point the commodities and pleasures which by his labour, industry and perils the King had received, for recompense whereof, he forgot not to tell them the kings ungratitude, and the spiteful dishonour done unto his house by the ravishing and deflowering of his Daughter, telling them further, that the King did unjustly usurp that kingdom, which by rightful succession of inheritance belonged to the Sons of Vitiza. For which causes he desired their helping hands in this so good and just quarrel to assist him, telling them that the next year he would come with a convenient army to perform as much as he then spoke. He so much persuaded them with these and such like words, that they promised him when time should serve their best service and furtherance: and there upon returned home every man to his own house. julian because he would make a beginning of his purposed war, invaded the Isle Gades liing in the utter part of the ocean, near to the narrow sea, which isle was afterward named Alzira Dalfrada: which with Sword and fire he spoiled, carrying the Inhabitants away with him Prisoners, and after that showed the like courtesy to Lusitania and Betica, and being laden with abundance of spoils and booties returned into Aphrica.  
Mucas seeing this good success and thinking it a beginning good enough, delivered unto him twelve thousand Saracenes beside them before, under the conduct of the same Tarife. With whom he arrived at the foot of the Promontory Calpe, which Mountain was thereof afterward called Gabel Traife, which is as much to say as the Mount of Traif, and now it is called Gibel, and setting his Soldiers on land, took by force the city Carceia, which afterward even till our time was called Tarifa.  
The rumour of this great commotion being spread throughout all Spain, the kinsfolks of Earl julian gathering together all the power that they were able, and feigning that they went to repulse this Saracenicall invasion, went strait ways thither and joined themselves with him. And so all their powers being linked in one, they wasted and harried all the coast about the River Betis now named Guadolovir, and commonly called Andalusia or of the Vandals, Vandalusia. Roderike in the mean season, with as much speed as he could, gathered a very great Army, and appointing his cozen germane Ignicus to be Chievetaine thereof, sent him against his enemies. Who making many conflicts and skirmishes with them was at length with all his Army discomfited and overthrown. The Saracens having made great pillage & desolation in the Country, and laden with foison of many booties, and carrying a great multitude of Prisoners with them returned into Africa. At which time, Vlite being in Asia, and making preparation to war with Constantinople, died, after whom Zulciminie the Son of Abdimelik was made high Bishop, during whose reign the Saracens the second time besieged Constantinople. For immediately after his creation, he sent Malsana with an army by land, and Aumar with an other by Sea against Constantinople, and he himself with a great power followed after. But this his strong and terrible purpose was for a while defeated by Leo the Praetor of Armenia: whom they (seeking means to entrap and deceive) were themselves by him entrapped and deceived: for he stopping the passages & convenient places through which they must needs go, hindered their reckoning.  
Whilst these things were in doing, Mucas coming out of Africa, to congratulate and do his duty to Zulciminie the new Bishop, declareth unto him the state of their affairs in Spain: whereupon he being marvelous desirous to enlarge the limits of his Empire, gave him in commandment, to sand Tarife again into that Province with a mightier army than any he had before. Mucas therefore returning into Africa, the next year following transfreted with a buige army into Spain, keeping with him as a pledge or hostage, Richila Count of Tingis, and cozen to julian, whom he half mistrusted. Which army being once landed on the next coast, Roderike speedily gathered the powers of the Provinces near about. And so with the aid of the people of Gottalonia (now called Catalonia and in th'old time Lacetani) the inhabitants of Iberia now called Tarracon or Arragon:) the Cantabrians being at this day in the Kingdom of Navarre: and the people of Gallia Gottica, wherein are the Cities Tolosa & Nimes unto the river Rhone, he suddenly and unlooked for, encountered with them at the river Bedalaces which of th'old writers was called Betis, near to a town called xerez. The Saracenes at that time had encamped themselves on that side of the river where Andalusia standeth: and the King with his battle on the other side, wherein the Kingdom of Castille is. For the river Betis springing out of mount Ortospeda in the borders of Arragon, and running into the Ocean next to the straits, divideth Andalusia and the Kingdom of Granado from Castille: and runneth through the middle of Betica, which is bounded with the river Anas, springing out of the same Mountain. Lusitanie lying West from Tarracon, by a strait course reacheth from the mouth or entrance of Anas forth right to the river Duria: and the river Pisguerra separateth the Castulonians from the Asturians. In this place, the three of September being Sunday, in the year after the incarnation. 714. he advanced his Standard and committed his fortune good or bad, to the hazard of battle. The fight was most fierce & deadly for the passage of the River, whilst the one part would needs pass over, and the other would not suffer them. This continued a good while in such equal match, that hard it was to discern to whether party the victory would incline: which was much to be marveled at, considering how sore Spain had for two years last afore, been afflicted with dearth of victuals and the Pestilential plague. Whereby the soldiers had not the strength and courage that they had before, and the men, who in a hundredth & fifty years space had not been trained up in any wars, cockered and effeminated with ease, had lost in a manner all warlike discipline and right use of handling their weapons, & were moreover without harnysse armour or habilimentes meet for the wars: because Vitiza, Roderike his Predecessor, a most cruel and bloody Tyrant, had caused all weapons to be taken away from the people and to be broken. 
A most bloody battle continuing a whole week.  This battle continued not only that day, but during all the whole week till the Sunday following, there were daily sharp and terrible conflicts. And on the eight day which was the xi of September the two Sons of King Vitiza having the night before indented and conspired with Tarife, (who promised them their father's Kingdom,) drew back and privily conveyed themselves with their retinue out of the battle, by means whereof Mucas with little a do brought all his army over the river, and then was the Goths array quickly broken and they themselves vanquished. Roderike the first day of the battle, observing the ancient guise of his country, 
How kings in those days came into the field, with what apparel, & for what cause.  came into the field, appareled in a gown of beaten Gold, having also on his head a Crown of gold and golden Shoes, and all his other apparel set with rich pearls & precious stones, riding in a horselitter of ivory drawn by two goodly horses. Which order the Goths used always in battles for this consideration, the the Soldiers well knowing their king could not escape away by flight from them, should be assured that there was none other way, but either to die together in that place or else to win the victory. For it had been a thing most shameful and reproachful to forsake their Prince and anointed Sovereign. Which custom and manner, many free confederate cities of Italy following, trimmed and adorned for the wars, a certain Chair of estate, called Carocio) wherein were set the Pennons and Ensigns of all the confederates. This Chair in battle was drawn by many Oxen, whereby the whole host was given to understand, the they could not with any honesty fly, by reason of the slow pace and unwieldiness of those heavy Beasts. In this sort was king Roderike pompously carried in his horselitter during the battles foughten in seven days space. But on the eight day, seeing things brought to the last push and to stand upon six and seven, of or on, he himself with others determined to fight it out valiantly: and therefore mounted upon an excellent courageous courser, called Orell, and animating his Soldiers with a most vehement and pithy Oration boldly gave the charge upon his enemies. But when he saw the front of his battle to shrink, he departed aside unto a little hill hard by and stripped himself out of all his royal Robes: and from thence beholding the merciless slaughter of his men on every side, moved with repentance, because he knew himself to be the cause & occasioner of all this mishap, changed himself into another weed and fled into a desert of Lusitanie, where he found a certain holy man, living solitary, with whom he passed the rest of his life.  
Now whereas it is reported and written that he followed a Star or a messenger of God which conducted and guided him in his way: it may be so, and the same hath also happened to others. But it may aswell also be understood of a certain secret Star moving and directing his william.  
And whereas they say he was put by that holy man into a Cave or hole and a Serpent with him that had two heads, which in two days space gnawed all the flesh of his body from the bones this being simply taken and understanded, hath no likelihood of any truth. For what sanctity, what religion, or what piety, commandeth to kill a penitent person, and one that seeketh comfort of his afflicted mind by amendent of life, with such horrible torments and strange punishment? Wherefore I would rather think it to be spoken mystically, and that the Serpent with two heads signifieth his sinful and guilty conscience, which tormenteth & disquieteth those that have perpetrated any heinous offence, as though it were the Furies of hell, as the poets have feigned of Orestes and others. There therefore in that place he died, and certain years after, his Sepulchre or Tomb was found at Viseo in Portugal with this Epitaph or superscription upon it.  

HEre lies the Corpse of Roderick, late King  
Of Goths, accursed and fraught with fury dire▪  
Whose sensual reign brought dole and deadly sting  
To Spanish soil: because of julian's ire,  
Which would not be appeased till he had wrought  
The Toil of strife, and brought all things to naught.   

All mad with rage and spiteful rancours mood  
By devilish fate incensed, God's hests despised,  
His faith renounced, religion eke withstood,  
A foe to friends, his Country's wrack devised:  
Unto his Lord an arrant traitorous Elf,  
A murderous wight, and cruel toward himself.   

imbrued with guilt, for shedding Christian blood  
Which by his drifts were brought to fatal end,  
An homicide, of mangling Butcher's brood  
Did ruin to his native soil pretend.  
His memory shall die with men for ay,  
His name shall rot, as doth his Corpse in clay.   
In this battle all the men of Arms and Gentlemen of the Goths were slain and the whole power of Spain utterly overthrown. Of the Gothical Army there slain, the number was infinite, but of the Saracenes only twenty thousand: which happened because the factious rout of julian which had all the Armour and defence of the Realm of Spain took part with them. And the multitude of them was very great: but they which fought on the kings side were in a manner all unarmed and naked men. A few escaping by flight ran whither fortune lead them and saved themselves. They which were coming out of foreign provinces to aid the King, hearing of this lamentable discomfiture, joined sides with them that were fled to Egicia, and embattayling themselves against the Saracenes which followed the chase, and pursued the poor vanquished fléers, set upon them with a fierce recharge: fight (like eager Lions rob and bereft of their whelps) & manfully discomfited the vanguard of their Enemy's Army. But being not able to sustain the force of julian's battle which were strong men and well armed, they were feign to retire into the City. Tarife encamping himself there, where now at this day the Well of Tarif is, and thence géeving assault to the City, with little a do wan it. Which done, by the counsel of julian, he divided his host into many branches, assigning unto every part such Captains as he thought fittest: imagining yea not doubting but the Christians before they could take any counsel what way were best to follow or be able to gather any more power, might be oppressed and all at once dispercled wheresoever they could be found. They Sons of Vitiza and bishop Opasius were appointed Captains over them. One Host addressed themselves toward the conquest of Malacca (now called Malega) a Port or haven of Betica by the midland sea, which to be speedily taken, was much for their behoof & advantage. An other marched to sack Corduba, over whom was Chievetaine, a certain christian having a little before renounced his Christianity and Saracenyzed, whose name was Mageitar. And the third was conducted by Tarife himself, which took the way to the City Mentesia, adjoining to that part of Aquitania, which lieth hard by the Pyrenees and is called Guienne or Gascoigne. And subverting that City (which chose rather to be utterly ruynated then to be come vassal under Saracenicall slavery, he discamped to Toledo, wan it, and after that, Gaudalagiar & Medina Almeide, which City was so named of a pretty big Table made all of one green precious stone like an emerald, found in it. Then he took the strong city of Amaia, wherein was kept at the treasure for the wars.  
After this he invaded the Region called Gottici Campi, took by surrendry the Cities Asturica & Gigion (whereof Mugnuza a Gothian was Captain) and subjugated Gatalonia, being aided by Mugnoces Prince of Cerdania, who also was a Gothian borne. Wherefore the Saracenes made him Ruler of all the places confining to Cerdania. another Army, having won Granado, marched to subdue Nurtia and Horihuela, where there was a bloody battle foughten between the Christians and the Saracenes in the plain Fields which are to this day thereof called sangonarij: in which conflict (the Saracenes getting the upperhand) the city yielded. After this, the same host removed to Valentia, and discomfiting the Valentians issuing out of the town to fight when they saw the city strongly fortified & rampiered with walls and ditches they took it by surrendry, with this condition, that the Christians should be permitted to have in it one Temple to inhabit, which was Saint Basil his College, now at this day called Saint Barptolomewes'. All the rest they dedicated to that Idolatrous varlet, their Prophet Mahomet, saving only that Temple, which stood in the Fig market, where holy Vincent was martyred, which was afterward an Hospital of christians. The city was pestered & peopled with Moors, albeit the jews were suffered to remain still in it, and a few christians, which dwelled in S. Basilles college. Which the inhabitants of Puigum, a town of Enesa, hearing, where there was an other college of S. Basill, left their homes & fled, burying their great Bell & a certain Marble Image in that church in hope one day of a return. Wither the saracenes sent people of their own to inhabit under the conduct of Cebola: whereof the same town Puigum was afterward called Cebole: who also builded an other little town of the same name. And thus Valentia, Sogorbes, Tortosa, Lerida, Barcinon & Sarragoza with all Spain, was brought under the power and jurisdiction of the Saracenes. But Tarracon because it long resisted & stoutly stood at defiance with them, they utterly subverted & razed, which was afterward new builded by Bernhard Metropolytane of Toledo, at the commandment of urban the second of the name pope of Rome, in the year 1090. By this means, all spain in the space of xiiij Months was subdued: 
All Spain conquered by Saracenes.  which was a thing easy to be done, considering that the people were clean without armour, weapon, munition or captain, & Opasius Metropolitan of Syvile ever exhorting them to yield, promising unto them the they should quietly enjoy their religion & laws as they had before done, which promise was not observed, nor kept saving in a few places, as at Valencia, Sivile, and Toledo, in which they left certain temples for the Christians to inhabit.  
Whereupon yet to this day, in the chiefest Cathedral Church of the City, the Rites and divine service among them celebrated, is Mozarabicall, that is to say, mingled with Arabian: which was allowed and confirmed by the Bishops of that time, according to the order and institution of Saint Leandre.  
After these victories, the number of the Saracens daily increased in Spain, in so much that the spaniards than changed not only their religion and manners, but corrupted their language, and the names of their Cities, Towns, Hills, Rivers and all other places were likewise altered. Albeit many of them fled into France, England, Italy and Grecia, to crave aid of other Christian Princes. Some others planted themselves in that part of the Pyrenees that lieth out into Asturia and reacheth within the aquitanical Ocean. And they which remained still with the Saracens, had in every place, their Prelates and Pastors, men devout and holy. But the first recovery and help of Spain, sprang up among the Asturians. Which Country not only remained safe and undemnified of that Barbarous Nation, but also was the first that stopped their lewd invasions, and there was the ancient and native language of Spain conserved. Which thing that it may the better be understood by what means it happened, we must briefly describe the whole tract and situation of the Pyrenees. We said before that Spain was in form of a Cherronese or almost as a Island. environed with Sea on every side, saving only in one place. The north part whereof, joineth to France by a narrow portion of land that lieth between two Seas, and the Pyrenee Mountains lying a long from the Sun rising in Winter, to the setting of the same in Summer, environ it about like a wall. The breadth of the Isthmos or narrow trench of land lying between the two Seas, being one distant but a little from the other is about CClxx. Miles. But the Pyrenee mountains stretch in length a great way further. For when they come to the angle and as it were into a Bay of the Cantabrique Ocean, which lieth on the north side of Spain, they stretch out in length a great way into the Equinoctial West: and keeping of the Sea Cantabricum from the north part of Spain, stretcheth even into the plain Ocean, that hemmeth in all the West part of Spain. That part of these Mountains that lieth toward France, is altogether barren and unfruitful: but that part which is next Spain, is full of trees, and well peopled with many towns and villages. We will therefore begin our description of them, at the Ocean, where they join in Spain to the region called Guipuzque, but in France they border upon the confines of the Vasconians. On the side of Spain there is Stephans vallay, above the which are Besaca and Guciutha, towns of the Vardulians, confining upon the region of Navarre & containeth Cantabria and Asturia: then are there other smaller hills lying out from the Pyrenees, within which are contained Base and Squa, which do make the vallayes Rocida or Ronus: on France side, near to the confines of the Vasconians, is jean Pedeportesburie, a strong & well fortified place. Near to the valley Rocida, the arm which before we talked of, is from them let into the Ocean, reaching and extending to the main Sea through Gallicia or the Gallecians & the Asturians. But from the valley of Rocida, Eastward, they make the valley called Salazar, wherein standeth a town called Ociogavia: then Ronceuall wherein is Isava: and the frontiers of the King domes of Tarraconensis & Navarre which was once called Nagiera. Next France are the towns of Bierne. Now followeth the hill of Camfrank: whereunto in France is near joining the country of Peiraner & Vrdos, in Spain Villa nova, an ancient & noble City, jaca, Saint Christinsburie, and jean Pigniasburie: and in the same tract, lower is the Mount Arragon. Hosca, and from them, the Occetanes and Caesaraugusta now at this day called Saragoza. Out of the Mount that lieth over Saint Christines springeth the river Arragon: and because out of the mountains of Ronceuall there springeth an other little river of the same name, called the less Arragon or Subordam, therefore this is called the greater Arragon: and the whole region lying between them, was of them called Aragonia. There followeth in the Pyrenees a hill named Gavas, abutting on France side, upon Larount a country of the Bigorians, and on Spain's side, on the country of Tenia. In which Country are the towns Salent, Saint Helen's, and Biesca. Out of the hill Gavas, springeth a river named Gallecus, which having his course through the valley Tenia, falleth into Iber near to the City Saragoza. Then is there next, the nag of Horca, the stiepest and roughest of them all, on which, on France side confyneth the Country of Arne, and on that side toward Spain the same valley Tenia, than the clives of Tarla, from whom springeth the river Ara, which afterward runneth into the river Cinca near to the town juza, having on Spain's side the valleys of Brote, and on France Voteia a valley of Guyenne. In the valley of Brote are these towns following: Torla, Brotum, Oto, Linares, Faulum, Bresse, Sarbise, Aierue, Laresitalla, Scartinum and Giasa. Then followeth the craggy mount of Bielsa, from which a part of the river Cinca springeth, and the valley of Bio: and below, in this same very tract is the region Sobarbria: then in the Pyrenees, the vale Gistau, out of whose Hills springeth an other Branch of the river Cinca, which having his course through Sobarbria, is augmented by receiving into it the river Segre near to a town called Scarpe, and then falleth into Iber near Meschinentz.  
The chiefest towns of fame in the valley Gistau are these: Gistaine, Senias, Serbetum, jean Caravelsburie, Plannium, Poma, Gistaina, Cerquetum, Lamian, Catalavigna, Badaine. Then is there moreover in the Pyrenees the valley Bonasia, and the long region of Ribagorge: wherein are Gabaleria, Grausium, Benavarre, Peralt and Paniello. Then are the Hills of Castrum Leonis, under whom is the valley Aran or Fiscalia, which hath in it these towns: Biolla in Fiscalia, Lardies, Vorastrium, Saint justus, Ligarre, Aretiza, Sciabierre, Saint Olalia, Acortum, Tricase, Abese, Planiell, Saint Foelix, Sason, Silues, Spierle, Ascase, and beneath it, is the valley named Solana. Again in the Pyrenees, there follow Petrae Blaniae, Altalavaccae, where there is a passage through, the Hills of Torre, and of the County Pimorent and Pallasium. Under these, is the valley of Henui, wherein standeth the City Valentia, and Palasia: then the clives of Andoria, where there is a passage out of Spain, into France, with a valley of the same name, over against which, in France is Arachsium in Aquitanie. Hitherto the places of Navarre.  
Then a long Cerdania is the Mount Bellamir, the valley Bibesia, the Mount Livia and the pitch of Persa. Then they enter within the Country of Rocilion, over against the towns of Puigivaled, Caudiese, Arotonie, Galamij Fanum, Perapertuza, Eitor and Leocata, where their precincts & bounds end by the Mediterranean Sea. In the end whereof, in Spain there standeth Salses a Castle impregnable, having with in it a most plentiful fountain: where in tymespaste stood the City Gerunda or Girona, & over against it, in France is Templum Veneris now called Cap de Creux. Directly on the other side in Gottalonia, other hills do answer unto it, which may be called the less Pyrenees or Antipyrenees.  
throw of Roderick, and what hast the Saracenes used in the pursuit of their victory, took his Sister with him and departed to Gigion, supposing that place to be surer for his security. But when Mugnuza duke of Gigion, contrary to his hope & expectation had entered into league and was assistant to the Saracenes in their exploits, Pelagius dissimuling what he inwardly thought, and for the time bearing two faces under one hood, remained still with the same Duke, until Mugnuza falling sore in love with his said Sister, and devising which way to frame his plat to enjoy his desired lust, sent her Brother Pelagius to Corduba, to consult & entreat about certain affairs with the Saracen Princes. In whose absence, (bearing her in hand that he would marry her) he had the spoil of her maidenhead. Whereof Pelagius at his return being by his Sister certified, departed thence with her, into the higher Country till a time fit to bring that to pass which he purposed.  
Mugnuza greatly moved with his departure, told Tarifa that Pelagius intended somewhat against the Majesty of the Saracenicall Empire. 
The great dangers and adventures of Pelagius.  Wherefore Tarifa sent one of his Captains with a band of Soldiers (if it were possible) to apprehended Pelagius. And now the Soldiers were come to Brette, (in which town Pelagius was then resiant) who being privily advertised by a Christian, (one that was with them and knew all their counsels) took his Horse, and riding all upon the Spur till he came to the great river Pionia, took the water and swam over. Which they that pursued him, not daring to do for dread of drowning, he escaped their clutches, and came with heavy cheer into the Vale of Canica. Where by the providence of God he met with the Magistrates and Peers of many Cities of Cantabria and Asturia, which were going to surrender and yield themselves and their Cities to the Saracenes. And when he understood the errand and cause of their journey, it is reported that he made unto them an oration in these words following.  
Truly I cannot but greatly bewail the calamity of these times: 
His pithy Oration to his Countrymen.  & if it were not ungodly so to do, I would extremely pour out heaps of accusations against the sates and destinies, which have differred my nativity till these days, thus to see such slaughter and lamentable manquelling of my dear Countrymen and (which is more) such despite and contempt of God and his divine Laws. For of whom God's honour and glory is now adays more contemned and derided, I cannot easily judge: whether of yonder barbarous Hellhounds the Saracenes, who living in the foggy mists of devilish darkness, (cast before the eyes of their minds by that damned soul Mahomet) not knowing the true God nor the honour due to his holy name, do profane the holy Temples. Wherein his praise and kacred word was wont to be preached, training up young Babes and Infants whom Christ commanded to be brought unto him, with their impious rites and diabolical religion: and nouseling them in the filthy suds of their detestable traditions: do perforce ravish and like devils pollute infinite Christian Women and Virgins that acknowledge the true & sincere religion of the omnipotent God. Oppressing so many as they may once get into their h●ds with most horrible and unspeakable slavery, disp●ylyng them not only of their temperal goods, wives and Children, but also taking away from them their faith the rock of their salvation, & finally dim the glory of God with a patched doctrine of most Idolatrous blasphemy, bringging them to everlasting perdition both of body and soul. Or else rather may I judge the same of you, who (despayringe of the goodness and mighty power of God, whom you know to have shed his most precious blood for your redemption, by whom you know that eternal salvation is puchased and freely given to you and through whose bounteous gift you have so many sure helps at your most need, putting you in an undoubted hope of victory over your blasphemous enemies (yet will seem thus shamefully and dastardly unasked and of your own accord to put your necks into the halter, as though there were no more hope of help and better fortune, as though you had no God of whom redress and aid in adversity were to be hoped and craved, or as though you had no fortified towns and strong places of defence to repulse this present hostility. As though it were not a great deal better (valiantly fight in God's quarrel under the banner of Christian faith) to change this short and transitory life with an everlasting & glorious life, then to suffer these things before recited. And now behold, you which sometime were able to encounter with the Romans being Lords and Conquerors of the whole earth you which could not be vanquished and subdued by them that were the warlickest and stoutest men in the world to whom Germany, Britain, France, Spain, Grecia, yea Italy also the Queen and mistress of all the world, all Europa, all Africa and Asia obeyed: you which in no wise could be brought to live under the laws and jurisdiction of that very well governed Empire: you who alone remained unconquered of the Goths, the fiercest wasters and crushers of the same Empire: you I say (the power of all Europa being yet whole, and nothing thereof lost but the open places of Spain only, which also myscaryed partly by treason and partly by the foolish wilfulness of King Roderike, whose sinister fate brought him to a destruction and end agreeable to his vicious life, who not tarrying for that aid which was coming able to have scourged and discomfited those that were the enemies of our Country unadvisedly joined battle with his foes, and being disloyally circumvented by his own traitorous subjects, received the reward and hire due for such rashness and wickedness, which wilful dealing of him being the head, must needs redound to the general harm of all the inferior members of the common wealth) will now wilfully enthrall and make yourselves bond slaves to bear the intolerable yoke a people of all others most vile, most abject, most dastardly and wicked. If God for our manifold sins and offences were so highly displeased and so much turned away from us, that he would not admit our humble prayers and requests (which I will never be persuaded to believe: for he is wont never to forsake such as be unfeignedly penitent, and turn unto him with true contrition of heart and newness of life.) Or if all the rest of the whole world were obedient to the Saracens Laws, and that we had no sure places or walled towns for refuge and succour left to resort unto: yet were it much better valiantly to die upon them then to see and suffer those things, which perforce we should suffer at their hands. Brutus Creatures and savage Beasts, if their whelps be taken from them, most eagerly and impotuously fly in the faces of them that have taken them: whom if they may find and overtake, they object themselves into the extremity of any peril, contemning the sharp edges of naked sword, yea death itself, for the rescue of their silly young ones. And you which are men, to whom nature hath given not only the procreation of children and a care to bring them up, which she hath given to other Creatures aswell as to you, but also hath entirely committed to your charge a special regard to their education, who aught so to instruct & train them in the true fear & honour of Almighty God, that they may be enfraunchysed and made heirs of life everlasting in the Kingdom of heaven, will now (alas the while) humble and subject yourselves willingly and wilfully unto the obeisance of them which ere it be long will seduce and violently pull away your Babes and children from you and pluck the fear of God clean out of their hearts. Where is now that ancient faith, godly zeal and devout religion that was wont to be, when young children not yet passing the age of xuj years, and holy Virgins had leifer to suffer all kind of Martyrdom and punishment then to worship those false putative Gods, whom (notwithstanding) most stout and wise nations worshipped and reverenced? Where be they, which have adventured their lives in so many main battles for their liberty and freedom? Hot sournesses, glowing Plates, terrible Racking, sharp sword, bloody Axes, all the sorts of tortures & pains that could be devised, in times passed were not able to terrify and turn Children from the true religion and worshipping of God, to Idols and other fantastical trumperies of Satan's invention: and now men of grown and ripe years, men of all others most stout and valiant, yea the chief Princes of cities, upon whom the light of the sacred Gospel of jesus Christ hath shined and been opened, tremble and shake for fear of a lousy rabble of Saracenes, and are going to submit and prostrate themselves before them, without either hearing or seeing any weapon, or receiving summons of any war. But peradventure you hope to speed the better, and that they will show more clemency to you if you voluntarily yield yourselves, and that all your Religion and Laws shall remain safe and in such force as they did before, and that your wives and Children shall not be constuprated, harmed nor uncourteously handled. For with such fair glozing promises these cutthroates and villainous Traitors to their Country use commonly to deceive and enueigle the simple people: as though there could be any faith in them which have betrayed their Lords, their Country, their friends, and kinsfolks, yea God himself their Lord and maker. Did not Valentia a most strong, maritimal, and famous City ye●elde unto them upon this promise? and yet as soon as they were entered and had possession of the same, they either cast out all the inhabitants, or killed them, or else by compulsion enforced them unto their Sect. Did not Toledo the very same, and Sivyle and a great many of other noble Cities, which being deceived with this hope and bewitched with these flattering charms yielded themselves unto them? These domestical examples are sufficient to teach you, that it is a great deal better, valiantly to die together like men, and so much the more, for that as yet things are not so far spent but that they may be recured and holpen. You have high craggy Mountains for refuge, and in them some places inaccessible, you have some Towns most strongly fortified, upon trust whereof many times a small number hath discomfited populous armies. And you are a sort of tall men, whom the nature of the heaven and earth hath made stout and valiant, acquainted with labours, and hitherto invincible. Also there live a great sorteunder the Saracenes, which (I put you out of all doubt) will come from all parts and join themselves to you if they once saw you peep up and advance yourselves in this your so just quarrel. Behind at our backs is France, a Region at this day most flourishing both in chivalry and skilful Captains, from whence (no doubt) we shall have aid and secure. For the French will not any longer suffer this cowardly nation which hath already encroached as far as the Mediterranean Sea beyond the Pyrenees, so saucily and malapertly to play these cruel pageants and furious pranks against the borders of their Kingdom, in such sort as they have done to others.  
And God himself (if we will turn unto him with amendment of life) wyllayde and strengthen us, who being on our side, every one of us needeth not to fear a hundred thousand of these blasphemous Grynneagods and lewd villains.  
This oration sank so deeply into their brains that being persuaded with the pithy force thereof (for Pelagius was vehement and very earnest in his matter, and for his wisdom and sanctytie of life highly esteemed among those people) they returned every man to his home and calling their neighbours together, told unto them the causes of their return: to wit, how that Pelagius (whose virtue and unspotted life was well known unto them all, because as before we have showed, he dwelled long among them, miraculously delivered out of the cruel hands of bloody tyrants) met them as though he had been some messenger sent down from heaven, who showed unto them what an heinous offence they should commit, and what a pernicious act they had purposed to do. Wherefore not ceasing as well in open Sermons, as in private talk to persuade the people to constancy and godliness, he was by common assent of all the people created King of Cantabria and Asturia in the year after Christ. 717 Which done, they all got them to mou● Anseva. When the fame of this matter was blaset●-broad and known throughout Spain, all the Goths that could any way scape or by any means shift themselves out of the hands of that barbarous nation, conceying great hope of liberty & good luck, took them to their Weapons and joined side with him, and such as could not do the same out of hand, with all care and diligence sought opportunity and occasion how to flee to him.  
Tarifa sent against him Abraem Alcamack with a great Army, and with him Bishop Opasius Son of the king of Egica, and Metropolitan of Syvyle, who (as before hath been told) adhered to the faction of julian and other traitors of their Country. Pelagius hearing what great preparation was made against him, & seeing himself not of equal power to repulse so great a multitude, entered with a few of his company (but of the valiantest among his whole band) into a certain Den within the Mount Anseva, appointing the rest to defend the narrow passages and Straight ways. Wither when the Saracens were come, Opasius went about with many glozing terms to persuade them that kept the Streictes, to yield themselves unto the Moors, but when he saw his labour was all in vain, there began a cruel and a bloody bickering. The Saracenes shot so many Arrows and Darts into the den, that they seemed to rain from Heaven as fast as drops of water in a stormy shower, and to light among them as thick as Hailstones. But God miraculously making their darts to rebutte against the same persons that shot them, 
A miracle of God in delivering that Christians.  there were so many of them either slain or wounded that they were forced to recoil and give back. Then the Christians undoubtedly knowing the God was with them & fought for them, yielded most hearty thanks upon their knees unto his divine Majesty, that it had pleased him, thus to relieve & visit his poor afflicted people: which done, they boldly issued out, & utterly repulsed all the residue. There were slain of the Saracens in this conflict about twenty M. & of the Christians very few or none at all: for writers make no mention thereof. Those Saracens which escaped from the battle, fled into the top of the hill: which by divine miracle being shaken with a terrible earthquake, and falling down into the River jua, running by the foot of the same hill, they were all cast away and perished. 
Traitors cannot prospero long.  Opasius and Mugnuza two Archtraitours, as they were fleeing (for they went not up with their fellows unto the hill) were taken: and Mugnuza in a place called Olaglias was straightways by the Asturians put to death, and the City Gigion utterly ruynated to the perpetual ignominy and shameful reproach of the said Mugnuza Prince thereof. What was done with Opasius, Authors make no mention.  
When Mucas heard hereof, suspecting that julian & others of the same conspiracy, were privy to the counsels of Pelagius, he straightways commanded julian and Sisibertus and Ebasius the sons of king Vitiza to be put to death, and thus in the end they received a just reward of their treason. Which example so terrified many of julian's retinue and faction, that they revolted from Mucas and went to the Asturians: and those which lived under the tyranny of the Saracens, daily by stealth and privily flying to Pelagius, his power within short space was so increased, that they which a little before were scantly able to defend their own, now recovered many of those Regions and Cities which the Saracens before had brought under their subjection. For the City Legio (at this day called Leon) was immediately to them surrendered: so also was Rota, Mansilia, Canicas (commonly called Cangas) Tineum and many other towns of that Country.   

¶ The Second Book.  
¶ Containing the declination of the Saracenicall Empire, till the beginning of the Turks.  
THe Saracens in the East being in a great frenzy that their Siege certain years passed laid to Constantinople was frustrate, 
Constantinople again besieged.  and hearing that (Leo by whose only means their attempt was repelled) was now Emperor, levied a mighty army again and dividing the same into two parties took in hand the same enterprise afresh, purposing then or never to bring their desires to a final effect and conclusion. Malsamas the General of th'one army, transfreting with his company into Thracia, spoiled a great part of that Province and giving a sharp assault unto the chief city and Imperial Seat thereof, encamped himself on the West side of the same City near to the walls, where there is an Isthmos or narrow portion of land having Sea on either side, & on that part he laid battery. Zulciminie the chief Bishop, lay before the city on the Sea with a navy of three thousand Sail, as many do affirm. For the city Constantinople being both very huge and beautiful and aswell by nature as Art most strong and impregnable, standeth at the mouth of the Thracian Sea Bosphorus, (where Asia and Europa do almost join together, having no more but one small straight Sea to part them) by which it is emptied & hath issue into the Sea Propontis: where there stretcheth out a little Cape or elbow of Sea full of windings & turnings in, as though they were Havens. For which cause the place is called by the name of a Horn, because by reason of the seven hills of the City hanging out into it, it hath as it were many boughs or branches like the horns of a Hart. Along between this Cape and Propontis, there runneth a certain hill, in form like a Cherronese or half I'll, being on every side almost environed with water, containing in length from the west into the East about thirty furlongs, howbeit it riseth not greatly in any height, but the ridges and clives thereof do run still a long Propontis. On the North side, where his form is like a Horn (which a little before we termed a Cape or Elbow) it hath seven Hills annexed unto it, of the which four, do hung out into the Cape, and that which is washed with Bosphorus, is the greatest and maketh the base of a Triangle: for the form of this City and country being almost a perfect I'll is three cornered. This hath two Promontories, one lying toward Propontis, west of Hebdomum, the other Northward, which defendeth the mouth of the Bay from the injury of winds, and is called Chrysoceras. From which if a streigth line be drawn to the seventh and innermost Hill of all (which also defendeth the Bay from the west wind) you must needs include the plain champain of Pera (now called Galata) within the compass of the Arch, made by reason of the continual ridge and cliff of the Cherronese. The length of that Cape or Bay is about lx. furlongs in the innermost part whereof, are the mouths of the Rivers Cydrus and Barbysa: the latitude or breadth thereof is divers and not in all places alike: where it is most, it passeth not six furlongs, and where it is jest, not above three. The streicts of it are very narrow. For on the north part, wherein the town Pera standeth, there hangeth out a Promontory into the South named Metopicum and Cyclobium: and likewise an other on Asia side, direct lie abutting upon the middle Streictes of the Bay, named Damalicum. This Cherronese on the west side, where the main Land of Thracia lieth, doth separate this Elbow or Bay from Propontis with a narrow portion of land lying between the two Seas.  
The breadth of that same Isthmos or narrow share of Land, where it toucheth the seventh Hill and inner corner of the City, is fifty paces: and further beyond, it is greater. Thus in this plot of ground being a perfect I'll on all sides saving one, is situate the noble City of Constantinople, once called Byzantium, over against whom, on the other shore side of the Streict, standeth the town Pera, once called Galata, whichalso maketh promontories into the Horned Bay. And in Asia there is directly over against it, the City Chalcedon. The entries of this Créeke or Haven in the narrowest places are enclosed and fast shut up with a great chain, which reaching from the Tower Pharea to the Promontory Chrysoceras is extended and drawn in length over to the Metopique Promontory of Galata, where there is also an other strong fortress or Blockhouse. The City itself is fenced and fortified with three strong walls, two very broad and deep ditches, and many Towers and Bulwarks beside. It hath on every side a plain prospect. The middle part of the City riseth up a little in height, 
Constantinople is in compass xiii. miles.  by reason of the Hills whereon it standeth. The whole circuit or compass of the City is about xiii. miles.  
This so noble, and flourishing City, Constantine in the place where before Byzantium stood (unadvisedly enough as the sequel proved) builded, and translated the Imperial Seat with all the rich Ornaments of the City of Rome thither. For although the soil where it standeth seemed to be a place most fit for an Imperial city, yet the disposition of the air and destiny would not suffer this city to be the head seat & key of the Roman empire. For as not only every Country but also every city have their proper fates, manners, fashions and rites: so they may not safely be translated or removed into an other place, not although the very same persons and Laws be translated and removed thither with them.  
For the disposition and temperature of the air altereth men's manners, which being altered their destinies and Fortunes are also changed. Which to be true, the end proved apparently. For the Empire being translated almost into the borders of Asia, the Emperors themselves and the Roman Legions were afterward chosen out of that Province, who being infected with their Gréekishe lightness and ambition, seditiously practised sundry factions among themselves, and effeminated with the nice wantonness of Asia, were not of power to repel the incursions of foreign Barbaryans: when as in the mean season, Italy and Rome, the Mistress and Castle of the whole earth, lacking a head and having lost the right use of warlike discipline was made an open pray for all nations to invade. And thus that Empire which (like a good tree) in his own soil bore very good fruit, being transplanted into a strange air and ground, within short time perished and came to ruin.  
But to return again to our purposed narration. Malsamas advanced his power to besiege by land, that part which we said stood in the Isthmos or streict piece of ground, between the Horn and Propontis, which could be oppugned none other way but only by land. He because his purpose was, utterly to disappoint the Citizens that no victual should be conveyed unto them, and for that his desire was to encroach as near to the walls as could be, so politicly lodged his Garrisons & Host on every side that the front of his Army, was as though it had been a Horhe next to the walls, & thence as the fields farther of from the narrow land, stretch out in breadth & scope, reached out along about the Cape or Bay unto the mouths of the rivers which we said had their yssu es & falling into the same. For this Host was marvelous populous, and formydable, and therefore required greatground & elbow room. From thence making many roads into the country adioigning, he lamentably distressed the same, and threatening utter subversion to the City laid battrye and siege to it with mines, Bastiles and all kind of engines that might any way further his pretence. On tother side, Zulciminie with his navy on the Sea environed the whole City, on that side toward Propontis and Bosphorus from the narrow land to the promontory Metopick, insomuch that to them that looked out of the City, the Seas Propontis and Bosphorus seemed all over to be covered with wood like a Forest. He slept no more in his business then Malsamas did: but with sea scaling ladders and such Guns as then were in use, assaulted the city and most fiercely shook it.  
But the besieged Citizens were so vigilaunt and so hardy withal, that all their attempts and devoyres were wholly frustrate. Wherefore seeing they could not this way prevail, they thought to win their purpose by long siege and tract of time. But Zulciminie in the mean season died in his own Camp, whereby there arose a seditious tumult among the Saracenes for the choosing of a new bishop, and for that cause the siege was for a time intermitted. At length Aumar the son of Abdimazid was created bishop in the dead man's place, in the year 721. The winter was then so extréemly cold, that all the rivers were hard frozen over with ice. And also they had victual daily brought into their Camp out of Egypt, yet because the number of the men and Beasts was exceeding great and the winter extremely cold, a great sort of them died, some with cold, some for famine and some of diseases, & a great rabblement of them thinking to get some booty abroad, issued out of their own Camps and made incursions into the frontiers of Bulgaria, where they were of the Bulgarians encountered withal, and in manner all slain, as they were about their pillage. At which time, there were (as some affirm) of them slain thirty. thousand. Leo the Emperor also was with them to bring, by an artificial devise of fireworke, wrought by a Glass, 
Burning Glasses.  as Archymedes of Syracuse aforetime did. By means of which Glass he set on fire the fleet of the Saracenes and so spoiled them that few of them escaped unburnt and they which escaped were taken of the greeks, by reason that the Captains of them for fear of the fire, yielded themselves & fled for secure unto the Greeks. This fine invention ●ounde out by a certain cunning Architect, marvelously appalled their spirits: for the very Sea about the Ships seemed to be all on a light fire. Such another kind of burning glass as this, we reads was at Alexandria in Egypt in the watch Tower named Pharus, wherewith the inhabitants when they listed, holding the same full against the Sun Beams, set the Ships of their enemies on fire a great way of.  
During this while, Mucas & Tarifa having subdued Spain, began to be had in suspicion by Aumar. Whereupon they came both together to salute their new Bishop and to clear themselves from all suspicious crimes that could be objected against them. Where Tarifa accused Mucas of extortion and laid to his charge that he had purloined the Prince's treasure during his regiment in Spain: of which crime he being attainted and found guilty against the high Bishop, took such inward grief that he died. In whose place, Aumar preferred Gizid to the Lieutenauntship of Africa, and Tarifa he appointed Regent of all Spain. Wherefore Gizid with a well appointed Navy of three hundredth and sixty Sail, with the supply of the other Legions and victual, made his course directly toward Constantinople: but hearing by the way tidings, how the constantinopolitans had consumed the most part of the Saracenes Ships with fire, he durst not adventure any further, but stayed upon the coasts of Bythinia, robbing and making spoil of the Country round about: In which place he had but a cold welcome given him by the Roman Legions being there in Garrisons, who setting fiercely upon him, killed many of his people and so skarred the residue that they were glad to retire. Yet nevertheless the terrestrial army under the conduct of Malsamas, 
Loathsome famine among Saracenes  desisted not their Siege before the City, and yet they were so sore pinched with famine and hunger, that they were fain to eat the dead Carrion of any manner of Beast: yea they eat dried ordure and dung, and are reported also, to be so near driven that for very need they eat their own fellows flesh being dead, such an exceeding desire had they to conquer that Imperial Seat and City royal of all the Roman Empire oriental.  
Constantinople in the mean season escaped not free, 
Great plague in Constantinople.  but was plagued with as great mortality an other way. For the pestilential plague consumed well near. CCC. thousand persons. When tidings of these so great and so many overthrows and infortunate calamities was brought to Aumar, he was therewith so dismayed that he immediately addressed his letters to Malsamas, with commandment forthwith upon the receipt thereof to return home with all his Army left alive. Whereupon Malsamas shipped his Soldiers and departed. But there suddenly arose such a vehement tempest and boisterous wind, 
Shipwreck  that all their Ships (saving only ten) perished in the Sea, whereof five were taken by the Romans, the residue returned home to bring news of this their heavy chance & misfortune. But Abdeluzite the Nephieu of Mucas, whom Mucas at his departure out of Spain appointed his Deputy, marrying the Queen Egilona late wife of Roderick, by her counsel proclaimed, himself king of Syvyle. Whereat the Saracenes greatly fuming & chafing, killed both him and his wife, and in his room substituted an other of Mucas his kinsmen named Aiub, till such time as their high bishop should take order for lending some other. This Aiub repaired and re-edified the City Bilbilis (wherein the noble Poet martial was long before borne) ruinated and much defaced durying those wars, and many other Cities in spain: and named it by his own name Calataiub, which is now called Calacaiud. But he could not perform his purpose so fully about the rest, because there was divers in sundry parts of Spain, which (usurping the Kingdom) were obstacles in his way. For whereas Corduba was the head City and Seats royal of all Spain, and the Captainshippes or governance of all the other Cities and Provinces were distributed and bestowed upon the noble men of the Country, every one imitating the fact of Abdeluzite, called themselves Kings of those places where their authority and jurisdiction lay. Whereby Spain was divided into many Kingdoms, as the Kingdom of Syvyle, Granado Giaen, Murtia. Denia, Sciativa (which was once called Setaba) Valentia, Tortosia, Lerida, Fraga, Saragoza and many other les places not of so great fame as these. which Kings so long as they agreed among themselves, oftentimes afflicted Christendom with great overthrows and oppressions: but after that they fell at discord and intestine variance among themselves, they gave occasion to the Christians, to recover Spain again into their own rightful possession. Which thing was first attempted (as before we have showed) by Pelagius, who using his valiantness, wisdom and miracles to his best commodity, and happily taking occasion by this dissension and discord of his Enemies among themselves, wan again many cities and delivered sundry towns out of the miserable thraldom of their tyranny. With him did Alphonsus the son of Peter Duke of Calabria join and take part, being descended of the ancient line of Richared King of Goths, unto whom Pelagius gave his Daughter Orismunda in marriage: and they two achieved many notable victories over the Miscreaunte Moors.  
In the East, after the disease of Aumar the Caliph, Gizide the Son of Abdimelik succeeded and was installed in the pontificate in the year of our Lord 722. In whose reign, there stepped up an other Caliph and Gizid in Persia, whose name was Moalabs. Against whom was sent with a great army Masabnak, who vanquished him in battle and subdued all Persia: and thus Gizid the son of Abdimelick, was the only Caliph of all the Saracenes, who reigned three years and then died. After whom, his Son Euelide was created Caliph, who entered the Roman Provinces in Asia and Europa with a huge power: but within a short while, without perpetrating any notable exploit worthy of remembrance, he gave himself altogether to idleness, sloth and voluptuousness. Notwithstanding, in the second year of his Empire he sent Malsamas with an Host again into Cappadocia, who took the City Caesarea and Euelite he sent by an other way into Thracia, who having wasted and spoiled it, returned into Syria.  
About this time near the Sea coasts of the less Asia, the earth in the bottom of the sea burned, in such sort, that at the first there appeared nothing but smoke, but within awhile after such incredible store of hot burning Pumise stones (as though they had been little hills in the Sea) swum above water, that with the same Pumyses, all the shores of less Asia, Lesbos, Abydos and Macedonia were full, and the Sea itself seemed all covered over, & a certain Island at that time appeared and was discovered near the holy Isle. After this, Euelide sent one Muavias' and Amer with an Host of .90000. Saracenes to besiege Nicaea a City of Bythinia: which being most fiercely and strongly with all art and policy by them assailed, the Christians most valiantly defending, and beating them always back with great slaughter and effusion of blood, at length they raised their Siege and returned home without any harm doing, saving that in their return they took a little Town called Ateum. Afterwards the Prince of Gazaria, son to Cagan king of Bulgaria, warred upon the Saracens in the borders of Armenia: and (Gradack the Praetor of Armenia & Media a Saracene borne, being in battle vanquished and slain,) he brought those two Provinces again under the subjection of the Roman Empire. And in the year. 730. Malsamas with a huge power entered into the straits of Caucasus, and gave battle unto the Turks (who at those days were called the Huns Teutazites which is to say, Gentle) a fierre & terrible people dwelling within those Mountains. This bloody battle continued a whole day, and many slain on both sides, till night came and broke of their fight, uncertain as yet to whether side the victory would incline. But Malsamas retired into Armenia, for he had now concluded a peace with the son of King Cagan.  
During all this while, Pelagius having good success in his Spanish affairs against the Saracenes, the Tarraconians living in the mountains, by the example of the Asturians created Garcias Scimenecius their King in the den of jean Pignia, called Panovio. And within a while after Pelagius when he had reigned xiiij years died, in the year of our Lord 732. After whom his son Fafila succeeded, who in the second year of his reign was in a wood devoured of wild Bears, leaving no children behind him. These kings appointed the chief City of their Kingdom at Legio which is now called Leon, 
The Arms of the kingdom of Lyon.  and bore in their Coat Armour, a Lion purple in a Shield Argent. Not because of the name of the city where their Seat royal was, which hath his name not of a Lion but of a Legion of Soldiers which Cocceius Nerua placed there: but because they fought so courageously and eigrely for the safeguard and liberty of their country, as though they had been most fierce Lions. In the reign of this Fafila, the Saracenes passed into France by that part of the Pyrenees that was in their possession by the Mediterranean Sea. France was then possessed of the Frankes a people of Germany, who about 400. years after the incarnation, departing out of their native Country to seek some other place where to plant themselves, had that part of high Bourgoyne next to Germany given unto them to inhabit, by Aetius a Roman Senator who then was Praetor of the Province of Gaul, because he would have some strong garrison and defence against the Huns (who were then issued in great plumpes out of their own Country, and under the conduct of Attila, spoiled and wasted Europa) if they should fortune to invade Gaul, which Realm is yet of their name called France. 
How France was first named.  For the Frankes were the warlikest & stoutest people in all Germany, inhabiting (as I think) that region or portion thereof which is yet called Franconia or Frankland: who afterward by little and little enlarging their dition, obtained at length the regiment and Empire of all France, in so much that the name of the Frankes extended very far. But when the Frank or French Kings addicted themselves to an idle and voluptuous life and degenerated from the former stoutness and valiance of their progenitors, not executing the administration of their affairs in their own proper persons but exploited the same by under officers of their Court and Grand masters of their Household, Pipine the first of that name Son of Arnolph Duke of Bavaria first attained this honour and dignity by subduing and getting the upperhand of the lieutenants and Captains of the king's Provinces, who seeing the King to be a weak and unwarlike man, tyrannically ruled the Country according to their own sensual lusts & for their private commodities.  
Then in the reign of Theodoricus the second, the excellent dexterity and worthy virtue of Charles Martellus second Son to this Pipine was in that office very conspicuous and renowned throughout all the land of France, in so much that he was accounted and taken as the Prince of all the people. At the same time, was King of Aquitanie (then called Gallia Gottica) one Eudo a Gothian borne, whom king Roderik made ruler of the Province, but hearing of the discomfiture of the King his Liege Lord, he made himself king thereof. This Eudo while Charles Martellus was busied with other wars in Germany, began to surmise certain quarrels, which broke out into open war with the French Captains of the places near adjoining to the limits of his Territories, whom (going about to defend their titles & rights) he afflicted with many overthrows. Wherefore Martellus took the matter in hand and warred against him. And at the same time the Saracens passing the Pyrenees, had taken Narbon, and in it showed all kind of outrageous cruelty, because they would by that example make the country afraid any more to withstand them. Wherefore Eudo considering with himself that he was unable to war at one time both with the Frankes & the Saracens, and for the Mugnoces a man in great favour and estimation with the Saracens was his Son in law, he thought it better for him to make a league & amity with the Saracens than with the Christians. Which after he had by Mugnoces means and friendship brought to pass, looking big upon the matter and bearing himself stout by reason of the aid and succour, which they sent to him, he inferred much harm to the Frank Nation. But when he perceived, that the Saracens fortified with their own garrisons, and kept to their own uses, all such Cities & towns as they entered into, he began when it was to late to beshrew himself and wish that he had never attempted any such enterprise. For they kept Nimes, Mountpelier, & Avignon with all the places thereabout in their own possession. Whereupon Eudo gathering all his power together to profligate and drive them out, gave unto them battle, wherein he was discomfited. Mugnoces by whose means and procurement the league and amity was concluded, greatly complained of the injurious dealing of Eudo in falsifying his faith & infringing his promise accordingly as he had undertaken for him. Whereupon Abderama king of Gottalonia marching with an host against him, besieged him in the Castle of Cerdania: out whereof, Mugnoces for scarcity of water escaping, & fleeing into thickets and hillish places, fell into the hands of another company of Saracens, who took him prisoner & beastly slew him and sent his head & his wives (the daughter of Eudo) to Abderama: and thus all the traitors of their Country within short space, came to a miserable end and confusion. Then Abderama having dispatched and rid out of the way all enemies that were to be feared on his back, returned into France, passed the river of Rhone, and destroyed many places that belonged to the Christians: and made such a slaughter at Arle, that a heap then made of the bones of the dead carcases remaineth there yet to this day in a place called Allies Campi. Then went he with his army against Eudo who began again to gather more strength & make a new commotion. He besieged Tolose the chief City of Gallia Gottica: 
France invaded by Saracens.  in which siege, (for that the city was very well rampyered and fortified with Ditches & walls, and also well stored with Engines and munitions of war and with all sorts of weapons beside a convenient Garrison of soldiers with all other things necessary the●e planted for defence) the Saracenes received great loss and were well paid home, especially by means of certain Engines, devised by skilful art of ingenious Architectes and by divers other Stratagems of warlike policy. Notwithstanding, Bordeaux was then taken and sacked of the Saracenes, and all the Inhabitants therein both man woman and child unmercifully slain and manquelled, 
Bordeaux taken and divers other Cities and Towns.  and the Temples razed and laid even with the ground. Thence by the confines of Perigot beyond the river Geronde, they made inroads into the Country of Xantongue and destroyed Angolisme and Blaye: From thence through Limosin and Poitiers they rushed into the Country of Tours, Where they spoiled the Church of Saint Martin, wherein was great foison and plenty of gifts and offerings that had been given and bequeathed unto it, and afterward set it on fire.  
Eudo being sore afflicted with these unmannerly dealings, and driven to great extremity by the Saracenes, entered into league with Marcellus, and they two (with both their powers joined in one) gave battle unto Abderama before the City of Tours, 
Great slaughter.  wherein they discomfited him and all his host. In this battle there were slain CCC. lxxv thousand Saracenes, and of the French no more but xv C. And if the night had not come upon them ere the battle was fully ended, the whole rout of the Saracenes had been at that time utterly destroyed. For Abderama in the night season, perceiving how the game went, and what a mortal overthrow he had received, had no lust to tarry and expect the hazard of the next day: but trudged as fast as he could, by long journeys, with those few of his company that were left and able to follow him, to the Pyrenees, entending from thence to return into Spain, leaving behind him in his Tents all his carriage and stuff for a pray to his Enemies. But the Navarrians having stopped the straight passages where their journey lay, killed them every one. The next day assoon as the Son was up, Martellus in good order marshaled his army and took the Field, awaiting the coming of his enemies. But when he perfectly understood that they were fled, his Soldiers fell to the spoil, which they found in the Saracenes Camp most abundant and plentiful.  
After the death of Eudo, Martellus added that part of Eudo his Kingdom, to his Empire. For which cause Hunold and Vaifar the sons of Eudo, incensinge that part of Gaul called Narbonensis Provincia (containing the Countries of Savoy, Dolphinie, Provence and Languedoc) to take part with them, renewed the war afresh with Martellus. And passing over the river of Rhone, with most barbarus cruelty destroyed, burnt and killed man and beast, making havoc of all Towns, Villages, & fields that was in their way, without sparing either age or Sex. The chief burnt of which lamentable storm and furious immanity, that part of the Allobroges (now called Dolphinie) specially felt, before Martellus could provide or prepare sufficient power to go against them. But when he was come, Visigot departed into the waste desert and wilderness which he himself had so made, and concluding a league with the Saracenes more advisedly and warily then Eudo before had done, that is to wit, by giving and receiving hostages on both parties, he eftsoons procured them to come again into France: who now not with an Host of bold & timorous, warlike and unwarlyke, armed and naked persons, one mingled with an other as before, but with army of lusty Servitors and picked Soldiers thoroughly tried by Sea and Land, well appointed and furnished with victual and all things necessary for such an enterprise wherefore was chief Captain one Atine, entered into the Province. And taking avignon by treason of Maurice captain thereof, they appointed that City and Narbon to be the principal holds and fortresses of their martial proceedings. Whom as they were boldly swarming & straying abroad the Country, as men fearing no danger, Childebrand (sent for that purpose by Martellus with a great power against them) immediately at his first coming compelled to keep within the walls of avignon. Avignon is a City standing by the river Rhone, and was at that time strongly walled, and well fortified with many Bulwarks, Castles and piles, insomuch that Atine valiantly and polytiquely defending it, 
Two balyaunt & sailfull capitains compared together, Atine the saracen and Martellus the French.  (as he was a man both courageous and stout and also skilful in the art of Chevalrye) thought it to be inexpugnable and not able to be won. For he had placed his Garrisons on every side where he thought most expedient, and had planted the walls, Bulwarks and Castles full of weapons, Darts and Engines to throw stones into the throng of his Enemies, beside wild fire and matches to kindle Torches and brands to cast in their faces when so ever they should assay to enter. He had also manned the same with hardy Soldiers, & saw sure watch & ward to be kept at the Gates, neither lacking store of victual nor any thing else that for the defence thereof was needful and requisite. Every captain, Centurion and decurion had their places and offices appointed unto them accordingly. He himself in person went about and viewed the watches, for fear lest any thing by negligence or oversight of his officers were amiss, a man that could well away with labour, watching and hunger, and such a one as kept his soldiers in due order and duty by his own example, rather than for fear of punishment, anymating and encouraging them valiant enterprises, and martial adventures. Childebrand lodging his camp nearer to the city, gave assault thereunto: whom Atine not only repulsed but also enforced to discampe & remove his Army further of.  
But when Martellus with his retinue and train was come & both the hosts joined in one, after he had surveyed and taken view of the situation and strength of the city and thoroughly understood of the valiant courage of the defenders within, he speedily & with undaunted courage setting forward his matters, not only drove them as they issued out of the town within the walls again, but also won to the place where his army had before pight, & there strongly encamped he himself. For Martellus being a man singularly well skilled in warlike affairs, had under him in his army such captains and soldiers as had been in many bloody battles experienced & in sundry wars under him practised: furthermore very precise observers of martial discipline wherein he himself had trained & instructed them. Who whether the Army were to be lodged and embattled or the camp to be removed, or themselves to be ranked & set in array ready for the fight, knew every man his office, place & service only with a beck or a sign given them by their General. When their camp should be fortified for fear of being suddenly surprised by the enemy, immediately a man should have seen some, with all diligence busied in perusing & surveying the place the their General had assigned, some to see soldiers in good order, some to entrench the camp, some to pitch their tents, some to place the watch and assign them their standings, some ready marshaled without the Trench ready to repulse the Enemy if he should make any sudden irruption upon the labourers. If case stood, for the Camp to be removed, every man semblably knew his office and duty. If they marched out to fight, every one knew at his Finger's end, where and in what Rank or place he should stand so that the form and fashion were told them by their Chievetane, how he would have the battle ordered and appointed, and look where they stood and set their foot in the fight, there would they rather have died then to have left it or shrunk one foot back, so desirous were they to win praise and glory. If they should besiege any town, some brought the scaling ladders, some Turrettes, some Bastyles and clymling bridges surmounting the height of the Town walls, striving who should first go up and mount upon the walls. When they had got the Town, they never broke their array for any pillage or spoil, nor for any greediness of booty and pray, they never ceased to occupy their blades and lay about them with their falchions, till they had thoroughly overcome all such of their enemies as would not deliver their weapons.  
With such a goodly trained host, Martellus advancing his Standard and approaching his enemies, while the anger of his Soldiers was hot and the courage of their minds yet fresh & unappaulled, as one that well knew the nature of his Countrymen, who at the first brunt as long as an injury is fresh in memory and their minds with venturous anymositie and hope of victory, googled are most fierce and hardy: but within a short while if the war continued any thing long, their former hot forwardness will be straightways abated and turned into such key cold quietness that whereas afore they seemed Lions, than would they be as meek and tractable as Lambs, giving therefore no time of rest to his Soldiers, but only so much as needs must be had to refresh their bodies, with meat, drink and sleep, he sounded the bloody blast to the battle, and gave them a sign courageously to give the onset but first he whetted them and stirred up their stomachs with this Oration following.  
If your valiant hearts (most loving Soldiers and fellows in Arms) were not sufficiently already to me known by the manifold adventures and perils in my company to your perpetual praise exploited, 
A pleasant and comfortable Oration of Martellus to his Soldiers.  or if our enemy were unto us strange & unknown then would I go about with many words to incense and prick you forward: but sithence I have experimented and tried you in so many battles invincible, & that of late years you easily vanquished this very same enemy, (few of them left a live) at what time they invaded the whole Realm of France with a far greater army than they have now, in hope to have enjoyed the Empire & Dominion thereof to themselves: I well see that I have no need to stand long in putting you in hope of victory, which I perfectly know to be already most certain in your hands, whereof the manifold examples of so many famous battles happily and victoriously under our leading & conduct by you achieved, may put you in an undoubted assurance. Unless peradventure some will think it to be a harder matter for us now to overcome these few (which like fearful Hares) hide and include themselves within walls: than it was for us heretofore in the Country of Tours, to discomfit the whole power almost of all the Orient. Or as though Walls were of more force in Wars, than four hundredth thousand fight men, whose sword and armour if they had been laid together in one heap, had been able to have compassed this City about with a higher and thicker bulwark than these Walls which you see are. Men (believe me) seek their defence not in Walls but in their weapons. Whereas they which put their trust in Walls, when they be driven to that push that they see themselves overcome, their hearts fail them, they run away like the fearful Deer, either casting down their weapons, or else stand stone still dismayed and amazed like sheep. Address yourselves therefore to the assault like men, assuring yourselves to find such great plenty of spoil therein, that you shall far the better all the days of your lives. Daunt and oppress yonder odious and vile generation the are included in holes & dens like birds in a cage. Take your former vigour and accustomed stomachs unto you, and know ye the I am he, which (over & beside their share and booty of the spoil) will amply with my own hands reward all them that in this assault shall behave themselves valiantly. I myself will not start one foot from you, but will help you not only with my advise and policy, but also with doughty blows given with mine own arm as I am wont always at a pinch to do where I see need. I will be (I say) both the witness bearer and the judge of your valiance on every side, and will see you to suffer no worse extremity, and wrong, than I myself will be content to participate with you. Advance I say once again, mount up lively upon yonder wall, (which done) you shallbe sure to be celebrated and renowned of all men, as they that twice, have delivered and protected their Country of France out of thraldom of a blasphemous True of cursed Sathanistes.  
When he had made an end, the Soldiers all together gave a great shout, and then began the assault, the walls were courageously shaken and battered, ladders, turreties & bridges set up, the assault given in three several places & the whole army divided into iij parts, whereof one was lead by Childebrand, another by Charlemagne the son of Martellus, & the third by Martellus himself. The Saracens rowlling down great stones which they had for the same purpose prepared, tumbled down the scaling ladders & broke them a sunder, shot arrows among the Assaylaunts as fast as hail, & threw pots of scalding pitch upon them that approached any thing near, finally no kind of weapon was unoccupied. Atine himself going about every corner, chéering up his Soldiers on every side, & diligently looking the nothing were amiss, played the part both of a skilful Captain & also of a valiant soldier: many, which of a high and haughty courage first scaled the walls, felt the smart & reward of venturous audacity, and were slain. Martellus seeing that his scaling ladders were partly by his enemies & partly by the weight of his own soldiers climming up thick and threefoldly broken almost all in pieces, purposing to detrude and drive the defendants from some part of the wall, erected a Tower of wood, out of which, he shot with certain devised engines, great weighty stones at them that stood upon the wall and in it he had placed a great sort of Archers, which with arrows kept the Oppidanes so streict, that they durst not stand to their tacklings, nor abide upon the walls. This Turret had a bridge which with a certain devise in it, might both be hoist up on high & let down low, up into the which none could ascend that stood on the ground. This Engine was covered all over with raw Ox hides & leather, that no fire could do it hurt. This being with strength of men set hard by the walls (for it went upon wheels) the Bridge was set to the top of the walls, and so within a little while, the wall was full on that side with French soldiers. Then the bickering being so sore & terrible on both parts, that it was hard to decern who should have the victory, at length fine force and puissant manhood of the Frankes got the better & prevailed, who making a great shout, went throughstitch with their enterprise, some ascending & mounting upon the walls by ladders, which covered & saved themselves from harm by holding their Targets close over their heads, till they were gotten up, kill or else throwing down the defendants, that resisted. The rest being without all hope of remedy & victory, privily shifted every man for himself. Atine with the head men & chief officers of his company, embarked themselves in Ships ready in the river Rhone for the same intent, & sailed away with the stream in safety. Many of them were slain in the chase, many crushed to death with falling one upon an other, and many swimming after the Ships that were now departing and going away, were drowned and overwhelmed with surges. Atine with his Ships taking the sea, made his course directly to Narbon, a wealth City and well fortified, standing very commodiously to receive into it aid from the Sea, wherein was planted an other Garrison of Saracenes. Whereof hearing Martellus went also to oppugn and besiege it. So that now there was no less bickering & contention on both parties for the oppugnation and propugnation of Narbon: the one side meaning to win the city, the other not intending so toloose it.  
At which time Amorreus, an other Saracen King bringing a band of new aid to secure the besiéeged Narbonians, was encountered by Martellus, at the river Illiberis. Where between them was fought a sharp and bloody battle: but in the end the victory fell to Martellus, and Amorreus valiantly fighting in the vaward was slain with all his company, insomuch that not one was left alive to carry any news home of their universal mishap and calamity. When Atine understood of this discomfiture, he and as many as were with him at Narbon shipped themselves and departed out of the French Province and Country.  
At this time, when the Moors were thus driven out of all Aquitanie, nine of the chief Peers of Martellus his Host, valiant men and hardy, warred upon the Saracenes in Gotalonia: and Martellus died in whose room his second Son Pipine succeeded. In the orient Malsamas' spoiling and depopulating the borders of Thracia (which now is called Romania) took a strong Town of Cappadocia named Cursianum. From thence making an other voyage with an Army unto the Streicts of Caucasus, found the same so well defended and fortified by the Vnnes or Turks, that not daring to meddle with them, he retired back again. And two years after, an other army of Saracenes whereof was General one Euelit the Son of Maunias inavaded again the Borders of Thracia, where after he had made great spoil, he returned again into Syria. In which Province many thousands of Saracenes died of sundry diseases. Nevertheless they abstained nothing the more from making invasions into the territories that belonged to the Roman Empire. For Zulciminie with a huge power the third time pilfered and harried Armenia and Thracia and took the town called Syderonium: afterward he went into Cappadocia with 60000. men, and at the very same time Melike and Batal with a hundredth thousand Saracens broke the fourth time into Thracia. But Leo then Emperor, marching with an Host against them that wasted Thracia, destroyed and slew them almost every one. About this time died Euelid, in whose place was created bishop Gizit the second, in the year of our Lord 744. Who for that he saw the Roman Empire to be divided intofactions, because Constantine Copronymus the Son of Leo contended with Artabasdus for the Garland, addicted and bend his whole mind to dispose and set order in the Saracenicall Empire. And because the isle of Cyprus being then well peopled, brewed seditious motions and ruffling disturbaunces, he sent the whole people thereof into Syria and left the Island without Inhabitants. And when he had reigned one year, he deceased. After him, Ices obtained the pontificate, who also dying within less than a year, Maruane was installed and made high Bishop.  
Pipine the second bearing all thesway and ruling all the roast in the Realm of France, the Saracenes eftsoons passing the Pyrenees were by him surprised and taken tardy, and paid so dearly for their lustiness, that so long as he lived, the never durst any more attempt any invasion or pillage toward his land, Territory or dominion, for which valyance and magnanimity, the Frenchmen, by the assent of Zacharie then Pope of Rome deposed Childerick to whom the crown of France by lineal descent of inheritance belonged, and made Pipine their King: and with him anointed as heir Apparent to the Crown, his Son Charles, who was after surnamed the Great. Whom (afterward doing many things of his own proper will and authority contrary to his Father's mind and contentment, 
Charles  as though he had been already very King and in real possession of the Regal Diadem) King Pipine his Father exiled out of his sight and commanded to depart out of all the limits and bounds of his dominion and kingdom. Wherefore he not daring to disobey the king his Father's decree and judgement, took with him many of the French Nobility which followed him, and went to Galasie King of Toledo, a Saracene borne. Which Galasie used his help, advise and aid in the war which then he had against Marsilius' King of Saragoza, a Saracene also as well as he. In which wars Charles, being Chievetayne of all the King of Toledo his army, behaved himself like a worthy Knight, and many ways endamaged King Marsilius.  
afterward falling in love with Galiana Daughter to the king his Master, adventured and achieved many worthy enterprises & notorious Acts for her sake, namely against Bramantes, an other Saracen King. Who because he would have had Galiana to his wife, maugre her Parents good will, besieged Toledo, and discomfited the Soldiers both French & Saracene which served under the king of Toledo, till Charles issuing out to recharge upon him, coaped with him and slew him with his own hands. This hot love continuing for a time, at length broke out so far, that upon a certain time as that damsel for her disport and solace was walking in the gardens or baynes by the bankside of the river Tagus without the walls of the city Toledo (which are at this day called the Palaces of Galiana) Charles no longer able to qualify his amorous passion, stole her away and fled with her to Bordeaux, where he builded for her a sumpteus palace, as like in all points to the pattern and situation of the princely Court of Toledo, as he could guess, which palace is yet extant, and called also by the name of Galiana her Palace.  
Maruane ruling in Syria, many seditious mutines and factious partakings chanced among the Saracenes, & many Tyrants rebelliously revolted, pretending title to the pontificate. Whose names were Tebid, Dadack, and Zulciminie. Whom Maruane as traitors to him pursued, & took Tebid and put him to death: Zulciminie having an overthrow, fled into Persia. But fortune smiled & favoured Dadack better than either of the other twain, for he joining battle with the Son of Maruane, vanquished him and discomfited his whole Host. Albeit he could not long enjoy the fruits of this victory, for within awhile after, encountering with Maruane, himself in a cruel battle was overcome and slain. Constantine Copronymus taking occasion and conceiving hope of future good luck by means of the Saracens domestical sedition, inferred war upon Syria, & wan a great part of that Province. Wherefore Maruane having now already gotten the upperhand of Dadack with all his Adherentes: turned his conquerous Arms to regain Syria, and it recovered to the great slaughter & smart of the Christians. The same year, a little before the Christians received this great overthrow and discomfiture at the hands of Maruane, the Country Syria, Palestina, almost all Asia, Thracia, Grecia and Italy with many other Regions were terribly shaken with a dreadful Earthquake.  
After this, more ruffling and commotion kindled in Persia. For Asmuline Prince and kingleader of that Sect (first raised and excited by Mutar, of whom we have before made mention who affirmed Ali to be greater than Mahomet) dwelling and living among the Corasenes, a people of Persia, through the counsel & instinct of one Cataban, incensed and moved all the Slaves and Peyzants of the Country either privily or apertly, by secret conspiracy or by open force, to quell and murder their Masters. With whose wealth, the Slaves being enriched and made of great power, were divided into two factions, whereof th' one were called the Caismores, and th' other the Lamonites. Now, Asmuline being Captain of the Lamonites, subdued and clean dispercled the Caismores. Then being accompanied with his Lamonites and his Counsellor Cataban, marched forth into Persia: over which Province was Lieutenant for Maruane one Ibline, who with an host of one C. thousand good fight men and well appointed, resisted and gave to Asmuline battle. In which conflict, the Lamonites although they were a great deal fewer in number, yet having an indubitate confidence in the promises of Asmuline and in Cataban, whom they esteemed as men holy and replenished with Prophetical inspiration, fought most valiantly, in so much that they discomfited Ibline and put him to flight. Being then animated with so many victories, gloriously and happily achieved, they were not afraid to offer battle unto Maruane who had in his army iij. hundredth thousand fight Soldiers ready appointed in the field, near to the river Zaban, whom also with all his army they discomfited. Maruane with four thousand only of his company fled into Egypt, cutting down the bridge where he passed over, that his enemies should not pursue and chase after him. But Saline the Son of Asmuline persecuted and followed after him at his heels and in Egypt in a bloody battle overcame him, and thus was all the Maraunian Lineage and Pedigree expulsed. The remnants of whose line and Progeny which had flourished and reigned so many years were dispersed and scattered abroad, some fled into Mauritania where being wearied, they planted themselves, and some went into Spain. From this Asmuline afterward that house and family which now at this day reigneth in Persia, called Sophi is lineally descended.  
After the death of Asmuline and Cataban, one Abubalan surnamed Muamat was Prince of Syria and Persia: and Saline of Egypt: and here began the first Empire of the Sultanes or Souldanes of Egypt, which have their imperial Seat at Cayre. For by that name the Egyptian Caliphes would be called: which name (Sultan) by interpretation signifieth the highest Sovereign Prince and King of Kings.  
About the same time, died Pipine King of France, and Charles his son began his reign in his father's steed. And among the Asturians, Alphonsus the son in Law of Pelagius, and surnamed Catholicus succeeded Fafila. This King recovered from the Saracenes in Gallicia, Lucus, Tui and Asturica, in the Country called Campi, all that lieth within the Rivers Stola, Carrion, Pisquerra, and Duerro: in Castulonia, Simancas, Duengas, Amaia, Caniciares, Alesanium, Transinera, Supuerta and Carracia: in Lusitanie, Bracha, Viseum and Portum, (of whom & Gallicians compounded together, which are a people of the same Province) all Lusitanie is at this day called Portugal. He fortified many places, as Alaba, Ordugina, in Cantabria, which Country is now called Biskaie: in Navarra, Rueonia, Sarracecasium and diverse other places as far as the Pyrence Mountains. And when he had reigned eighteen ●eeres he died, after whom his Son Froila was saluted and crowned king. This man gave an overthrow to the Saracens which had invaded Gallicia, wherein he slew their Captain Omar with fifty thousand others of his company, and compelled joseph king of Corduba to flee: and brought all the region of Gallicia into his own rule and jurisdiction. He being afterward by his own Subjects murdered, Aurelius his brother's son obtained the kingdom, of whom we read no notable exploit done against the Saracens, and he also dying within short space after his Coronation, his brother Silo was made king. Against him the Gallicians rebelled, wherefore because he might the better subdue and bring than to reasonable conformity, he concluded a peace with the Saracens. He reigned eight years and then died. After whom, succeeded Alphonsus the second, son of Froila, surnamed Castus, which was in the year of our Lord God .780. Against him, by the counsel and persuasion of his uncle Mauregate, the Saracens made war. This Mauregate had promised unto them, that if he might by their means and help obtain the Kingdom of Lion, which his Predecessors and Ancestors before him had enjoyed, he would pay unto them yearly in the name of a tribute fifty persons of noble race, and as many Virgins of base birth, with many other execrable and impious things. Whereupon, by the aid of the Saracenes which furthered his pretence and quarrel, with all their might and power, he forcibly got Lion with the whole Kingdom thereof and it intrusively usurped by the space of five years. After whose death, Vermudeces, Son to his brother Vimaran succeeded: who after two years, voluntarily and of his own freewill restored the Kingdom to Alphonsus. Which when the Saracenes understood, they sent a great army against him, under the leading of Mucas: between whom, near to a Town named Lutum or Ledum was fought a terrible and sharp battle, but in the end the Saracenes were overcome, and of them were slain lxx thousand, beside a great number which were taken Prisoners.  
While these garboils were in doing in Spain, the Saracenes in the Orient were divided among themselves by intestine sedition and civil tumult. For Abubalan ruling in Syria, many commotions and uproars were raised against him in Arabia, by the faction of dead Maruane, affirming and proclaiming abroad that Maruane was not yet dead, and that therefore they put on Armour to restore him again into his rightful estate and regal dignity. By reason of which rebellious stir, many were slain on both sides, and great depopulation committed.  
After the death of Abubalan, his brother Abedela succeeded, who was traitorously and insidiouslye murdered by an other Abedela, which aspired to the Byshopprike, hoping to enjoy it after his decease as he did in deed. During whose Reign and Empire, the Turkish brood and Nation breaking cat of the Streictes of Caucasus about the year of our Lord .800. made roads and incursions into Armenia, and when they had piteously spoiled and sacked it, they returned into their own Country. And the year following, they issued out in great Plumps, and fought with the Saracenes so long, till many being slain on both parties, the night made them to surcease and make an end of their battle. Abedela the second of that name, in the eighteenth year of his reign died, in whose place succeeded his Son Madi. Who without any notable thing in all his time achieved, died, when he had reigned ix. years, leaving behind him for his Heir and successor, his son Moses. Who in the second year of his reign died: and in his room was created Caliph one Aaron. But now to return to the affairs of the Occident.  
Ibnabala King of Saragoza, being expulsed and driven out of his Country by the other Princes of the Saracenes in Spain, 
Charles the Great.  came into France to King Charles, to implore and desire aid of him, to revenge the injury unto him done: and at the same time also, Ambassadors came to the same Charles from Alphonsus surnamed Castus, King of Asturians, to incense and move him to war upon the Saracenes in Spain and to set the Country in good order, and by his prowess to deliver it out of the clutches of Tyrannical usurpers. Charles therefore gathering together not only the power of his own kingdom but also having a supply of foreign aid, among whom were certain young Gentlemen of the Danes (which proffered their service to accompaignie him, partly for a desire that they had to bellicall affairs, and partly to show their prowess and courageous stomachs) with an Host not very huge and populous in number, but yet competent enough and such as were skilful Soldiers and expert Captains, passed over the Pyrenees by Ronceuall without resistance or stop of any man. And entering within the frontiers and borders of Navarre, pight his Pavilions before Pompelon, the head City of the Kingdom of the Cantabrians. Which City the saracenes had strongly fortified with a mighty Garrison. And for that they had been already sufficiently schooled in the ancient tricks and feats of Spain, they would no more commit the event of their good or ill Fortune to the hazard of one entire battle as they had before done, but determined to protract and linger out the war with delays, tergiversations and sKirmishes where they might espy their best advantage. Charles dispatched and sent an Herald at arms to summon the Town, & to know whether they would yield or else abide the doubtful hazard of war. They first, asked a time to consult among themselves what were best to do, ere they would resolutely answer to the Sommaunce. Unto whom was granted the space of one day, wherein they demanded and entreated that they might have space granted to sand to their king's Friends and Confederates, and give them to understand of their distress, so that if they were not rescued and the siege raised within xv. days, than they would willingly yield themselves and their City into his hands. Alleging, that it should be much for the avail and commodity of the French, to conquer and win the City, being unperyshed and neither by the Conqueror in his raging mood defaced, nor by the conquered defendant, through desperation blemished and disfigured. Neither that this tarriance should in any point hinder his proceedings, but rather be greatly beneficial for him. For why, though he bend all the force he was able to make against the City, yet was it able to hold him out for so many days as they craved. And furthermore that the French, if their Fortune were to get the upperhand in fight of their Friends that came to secure them, should with a word only command the Portecullesses and strong grated Gates of the City to be broken down & openned for them quietly to enter, which should be much for the honour, Dignity, and profit of both parties: lest otherwise, those innocent Cities that have committed no fault, for whose delivery and regaigning the French protested themselves to be come, should suffer such ruthful and injurious examples of war on both sides, as the nature and insolency of a Siege necessarily bringeth.  
Charles prudently perceiving all these protestations and surmises of the Saracenes to be subtly and craftily devised for none other intent, but only to abate the heat and courage of his Soldiers (being now most sharply set to have their purpose) by protracting the time and giving longer day, would in no wise agree to grant them any respite to make any further preparation and purveyance for war, which might peradventure turn him to greater inconvenience afterward, but immediately sendeth defiance against them, and commandeth his Soldiers to provide and make ready such things as to the battery and siege of the City were requisite.  
The Siege of this City continued many days, and divers assaults fiercely given. The Assaylauntes were not so busy without, but the Defendants were as diligent within many times yssuinge out of their Gates, not after the Arabian guise, but according to the Spanish manner, armed with Sword and fire, quick, swift, nimble and sudden, deluding their enemies, with many stratagems and subtle policies, facinge and shifting from place to place, pretermitting no occasion that made for their purpose, dealing every where and at all times so deceiveablye, that when the other party thought themselves surest of their purpose, they were farthest of, and when their desires were likest (as they thought) to sort to effect, than were they soonest beguiled and likely themselves to fall into the laps of their enemies: so secret and speedy, that they were many times in the midst of their enemies flashing among them before any man suspected their coming, kill them and setting fire in their tents and gone again out of sight, ere any resistance could be made or any time to go against them. They skirmished & ruffled with their enemies, in a manner within their own tents. And although there was a band appointed at the gates of the City to keep them from coming out, yet (notwithstanding) they could not be so penned in, nor debarred from their purposes, but with like bouldenesse as afore, they would often set upon them, and by no means would be brought to keep within the walls of the city, till the same were thoroughly entrenched and rampired, and all their works within, finished to their mind. Then did they stand at defiance valiantly, not as men defending their manhood with walls, but keeping & defending their walls with manhood. This Siege continuing somewhat long, the other kings which were daily looked for to raise the siege, came in deed, albeit furnished with any host, able to fight a main battle, but ever as they espied any advantage or occasion, they would make out dimilances and light Horsemen by known paths and ways, to annoyed King Charles. Which Horsemen oftener by night then by day a little disquieted his Camp, and made some disturbance and Outcries therein. another crew of them killing the watchmen & perforce making way through their enemy's Bulwarks and Fortifications, entered the city, & greatly relieved them within, whereby they conceived great hope of future success. Charles with a courage unappalled and invincible exhorting his men, told them that the victory was to be obtained with pains taking & vigilancy, that martial prowess appeareth not only in the encountry and conflict, but a great deal rather in good discipline and observance of martial orders, not to be lulled in ease and security, bestowing the greatest part of the night in sleep and bodily rest, but in study and devise for the atchiveaunce of their weighty business, & in the day time incessantly to be busied, abstaining from riot & libidinous lusts & evermore abandoning weariness and linger of time. giving them further to understand, that the cages and walls wherein those Sathanistes had enclosed themselves for their safeguard, must either perforce be broken in pieces & beaten down about their ears, or else the enemies themselves to be tamed and brought under awful obedience. Wherefore he had them to advance their standards & with banners displayed, to march against them, & not suffer them to rest. Then was there made fortifications & habiliments, to serve each way and on every side, whereby their Camp was kept both before, behind and on either side.  
Then they that fisked and ranged out as they did before, were feign to hide their heads within their Fortress, or else were shamefully compelled to retire, and so the matter was brought to a perfect Siege. Then began there a sharp and terrible battrye which continued day and night without intermission, fresh Soldiers ever coming in the places of the weary, and fight by course one after an other round about, with all kind of devices Engines, Ordinance, Ladders, Bridges, policy and valiantness, in somuch that the Saracenes courage being well cooled, were now dismayed & at their wit's end, not able to hold out any longer, but on every side (do what they could) were by the valiant French Assaylaunts thrown down from the walls or else slain out of hand. Within the City also there was a great slaughter of them, until the King had made proclamation that as many as were unarmed and without weapon should be spared.  
Then lo, the Saracenes, ever before that time, choosing and accustomed rather to die then to yield as long as they had weapon & Armure, 
King Charles cooled the saracens courage  threw down their weapons, and upon their knees holding up their unarmed hands be sought pardon. Then were the walls razed and the city sacked. From thence the Camp removed and went to Saragoza the head City of the Province Taraconensis: which being terrified and feared by the example afore, straightway condescended and agreed to accept the offers and conditions propounded unto them, which was that they should admit and receive into their City such as preached the glad tidings of the Gospel of God, and receive again Ibnabala their King, and him to acknowledge and obey as their Sovereign Lord. After this, he went into Gottalonia, & compelled the two kings of the Province (which were accused to have expulsed Ibnabala but of his kingdom) Abu●am & Deui●feze to come into his Paullion with Gifts and Presents, & condescend to become Tributaries. Thus his name was had in fear and awe throughout all Spain. But when he was returned home again into France, some writ that there came out of Aphrica, one Aigoland, sent from the high Duke of the Aphrican Saracens, who kept his Seat royal at Marrocco) with a mighty army, to recover all such Towns and places as Charles had taken in Spain: with whom there were many other Princes, potentates and valiant personages. And that Charles (after many combats, darraigned and foughten with him hand to hand being thereunto by him challenged and provoked) fought a bloody battle with him at Baion, a City of Vasconia, wherein were slain 400000. Christians, and among them Miles Anglere Father to Roland, a stout Gentleman and a hardy, who had the leading and was General of the whole Army. Notwithstanding, all was regained by the puissance and prowess of Charles, and other fresh aid that then came even in the nick out of Italy to secure the Frenchman in that distress. Insomuch that Aegoland privyly fled and conveyed himself away.  
But not long after, having repaired his army with a supply of more Soldiers, Aegoland again provoked Charles into Vasconia, and besieged the City Gennum now called Baion the space of seven Months, and departing thence was in the borders of Xantongue in a cruel battle overthrown, after which discomfiture he fled back again into Spain. And how that Charles (because he would at length bring his Spanish wars to an end) with a greater army than any afore, entered into Spain, where after many light skirmishes, he slew Aegoland in a notable battle: after which victory he brought under his subjection and rule almost all Spain: with many more forged reports and mere fables of some advoutched, all which, for the untruth and unlykelyhood thereof we do hear pretermit. But if any be desirous to see them, let them read Turpine bishop of Rheims, to whom also I do refer you, for the truth of this which we have here last recited. For we do not find in any of those credible and approved writers which we follow, that Charles made any more voyages against the Saracenes into Spain but one, nor that they ever entered into France during his Reign. But this is manifest, that Alphonsus' King of Asturia, moved with the famous renown of his noble Acts and invincible valiance, and for the common weal of his Kingdom and Subjects, because he had no Children of his own, and saw that the power of that only Region was far unable so bear out and maintain continual wars with the Saracens, offered unto him secretly by trusty Messengers and Ambassadors the Kingdom of Lion, so that he would aid him against the King of Corduba, with whom he had then waged War. Charles accepting this offer and condition, sent aid unto him. Which composition when the Nobles and Peers of the Realm of Lion understood, they were sore displeased and took the matter grievously, spiting (as commonly in like cases it falleth out) to have a Nation hard under their noses to be rulers over them, and thereupon they compelled their King to start from his Bargain and undo his League. And not so contented to leave, purposed also and devised which way to dispatch and destroy King Charles and all his Army: fearing, lest he seeing himself thus deluded and mocked would, revenge this injury done unto him. Therefore gathering and assembling all the power of the Asturians and Cantabrians together, and sending also for aid to the Saracenes (in secret wise preventing Charles) took and kept the narrow Straitss of the Mountains where the passage & way lieth into Spain by Ronceuall. For Charles was returned into France, and was now again in his way going into Spain, to revenge this wrongful dealing. The Army of King Charles was then at the foot of the Pyrence Mountains on that side next France, in the valley (yet called Hospita) when there came news unto them, that the Spaniards were coming in warlike manner against him along by the valley called at this day Charles Valley, which was a fair plain Champain. Therefore dividing his host into three Battles, by the fraudulent & traitorous counsel of Galeron (or as some call him Gane) whom the enemies had corrupted with money, he appointed Roland his Nephew by his Sister, (commonly called of the vulgar sort Orland) Duke of little Britain, a valiant Gentleman and a hardy, to lead the Vauwarde, wherein he placed all the noble States & Peers of France: in the second battle, he placed innumerable Gentlemen and noble Personages: and he himself with the third (wherein was the traitor Galeron) tarried still in the camp, commanding Orland with the vanguard to advance himself forward. The Spanish army was embattled in Ronceuall, expecting their coming. Upon, whom the front of the French host giving the onset, was at the first brunt so handled (for the spaniards had gotten the upper ground and all the straight passages) that they were in worse case which escaped their hands, than they which were slain outright in fight: for they died & were quickly out of pain, but the other ●léeing through thick & thin among the stones and craggy clives & falling down from high Rocks, had their limbs broken, & so continued for a longer season in extreme torment and agonies. Thus, Roland & all his train being wearied, what with climbing up the hill, and what with the weight of their armour were easily killed and brought to confusion. 
xii. Peers of France.  After the same manner also was the second battle handled, wherein were the 12. Peers of France, in whose power it is to created the king & decide all weighty causes of the Realm.  
Charles still abode in the valley, which for this cause is to this day called Charles Valley, whither he had removed his Camp out of Hospita. Who understanding of the great overthrow and loss of his Men, retired with all speed again into France. Alphonsus' excused himself by Ambassadors unto him, that all these things were attempted and done without his consent and knowledge, with whom Charles renewed the former amity and league between them strooken and concluded. Then devising in his mind to procure an atonement and universal peace to the whole world, sent his Ambassadors into Syria and Egypt, to conclude an amity and peace with the Princes and Chief Rulers of the Infideles, to the end that they should the better use and entreat the Christians living under their subjection. Which he obtained, insomuch that Aaron the high Caliph of Persia and Arabia) who not long afore, rufflingly invading the Provinces of Asia that were under the Constantinopolitan Empire with CCC.M men, had enforced and by compulsion driven Nicephorus the emperor to redeem and (as it were) to fer●●e peace at his hands, by paying yearly an annual fee in gold) from thenceforth not only not infested and vexed the Christians, but also gave yearly a great Mass and sum of money to the relief of those poor Captives that lived under his rule, and also sent his Ambassadors with great rewards to King Charles. For when Aaron had with many overthrows and pillages miserably afflicted and frusshed the Roman empire, surprised and taken Tyana where he erected and dedicated a temple unto Mahomet & an infinite numbered of towns more: Nicephorus seeing his matters go to wreck, and distrustinge any better fortune, sent his Letters to the Arabian to obtain and request a peace according to the tenor following.  
Why tho● shouldest thus unjustly war against me and my dominions sithence I have not wronged nor offended thee, or who they be that counsel thee thereunto I know not, neither do I see any cause reasonable to move thee, unless it be peradventure, because thou hast a delight and pleasure in murder, robbery and rapine. For that thou dost it for religion sake, thou canst not pretend a ny excuse, sithence Machomet thy high Prophet, commandeth you to use and account all Christians as Brothers. Dost thou think that Almighty God the creator of all things and the stay of both the People, whom he hath created and made after his own similitude and likeness, is delighted with effusion and shéeding of innocent blood? God forbidden. For your Prophet Mahomet did not command you to offer unto him any such sacrifice or satisfactory expiation. Or else perchance dost thou invade the territories and provinces belonging to other men, for some need and want of Silver, Gold and such other things? But alas, there is no such store of these things with us? yea all precious jewels and wares that are rare and hard to be gotten, are among you in great plenty. But if there be any thing in our countries that may do thee pleasure, why dost thou not ask it friendly, and we will bestow the same upon the without delay most lovingly. If thou care not for man nor any force the mortal man can annoy thee with all, yet know thou that there is a God, which seeth and remembreth right and wrong. For sithence we be mortal, it is not comely nor fit for us to bear immortal grudge and endless enmity one toward an other, & in that point to resemble & imitate the Devil, which ever spiteth at man's felicity and soul-health and is at perpetual war with all mankind.  
With these letters, sent not without rewards and sumptuous presents Aaron being appeased, sent again many presents and gifts to Nicephorus, & concluded a peace with him upon a condition, that the Emperor should pay yearly unto him thirty. M. Crowns, and three for his own head, and as many for his Son and that he should not re-edify nor repair such Towns as were razed and wasted by the saracenes. But in the performance of this agreement, there was les faith in the Greek then in the Barbarian. For Nicephorus after the departure of the Saracenes out of those towns, immediately re-edified and fortified them. Which dealing when Aaron understood, he furnished out an other Army into Grecia, which took Thebes: and sending a Navy into Cyprus, subverted the Churches and expulsed the Cyprians. And when Aaron had reigned twenty-three. years he paid his debt to Nature, after whom succeeded in the Pontificate his Son Muamat. Who falling at mortal debate with his Brother Halad, and with him coaping in conflict wherein his side went to wrack (Fortune more favouring his Brother's part) grew to a composition with him, that they twain should jointly with equal authority (having both one and the same title or style) enjoy the Empire. Then there were created four tyrants whereof one had for his share Spain, an other Aphrica, the third Egypt and the fourth Syria and Palestina. Whereupon, the Saracenical power began to decline, & for awhile the affairs of the Orient were indifferently quiet among the Saracenes. And Muamat the Caliph of Syria would not now have his imperial Seat at Damascus, but builded a new city near where old Babylon once stood, and called it Bagadat, and it constituted the Pontifical Sea of Syria and all the Orient: For the Persians were yet under his rule & jurisdiction. The Egyptian kept his residence at his Metropolitan City of Cayre: which was (as before we have showed) builded near the place where old Memphis erst stood. Which after the Sea royal was in it appointed and kept, so increased, that at this day it is thought to be one of the greatest Cities in the whole World: the chief Sea of Aphrica was accounted by Elagleb to be at Caioran, which City was built in Africa when Ottmen had the regiment and governance of the Empire, and is distant from the City of Tunice about an hundredth Miles, and from the Sea thirty and six.  
spain although it obeyed & had in it many kings, yet they all acknowledged the Bishop of Marrocco for their Diocesan: which is a City of Mauritanie Tingitana. He that govourned Assyria was called the Caliph, which name signifieth a successor: because he boasted and bragged himself to be the successor of Mahomet. The Egyptian bishop was called the Sultan, and he of Caioran, (like as the Assyrian did) named himself a Caliph: and he of Marrocco by the ancient name of the Founder and builder of that City, was named a Miralmumine. Under these, there also arose certain other less Kingdoms in Africa: as the Kingdom of Tunice, of Tripoli, of Algeria, of Oran, of Fess: and an innumerable sort more, less than these. For as every one was Ruler over any City or Province. So he called himself King of the same, and possessing the Style and name thereof, as due by inheritance, left and delivered the same as it were by hand to his Succession and posterity.  
But yet notwithstanding all these Kings agnized and acknowledged some of these forenamed Bishops: and as every one favoured this bishop or that, so in his quarrel did he make War with the Kings of the other faction. Which seditious discords and multitude of Tyrants so appaired & weakened the power of the Saracenes that after the regiment of the aforesaid bishops, they so decreased and their force so was enfeebled, that at length the name of Saracenes gave place and was almost clean eaten up of the Turks: and the state of their Empire was at this time through the perturbation and burlyburly about the sovereignty, so obscured and unknown, that no certainty in the succession of their Empire can be had, not not among their own writers. Nevertheless, we observing the due order of times, will as briefly as may be, comprehend all such things as are confusedly written by diverse Authors, concerning the acts and gests by them achieved.  
In the time that this Muamat the Son of Aaron ruled Assyria, and Michael the Son in law of Nicephorus (expulser of Leo out of Armenia) was Emperor of Constantinople, one Thomas brewed a great garboil and commotion. 
Thomas a rank seditious traitor and filthy villain.  Of whom the report and fame is told after two ways. Some say he came of a very poor and base Parentage, and that he lived long time in much poverty and indigence, feign to get his living with his handy labour, and sometime with servile drudgery. Afterwards, abandoning his native Country and coming to Constantinople, was retained in the service of an Alderman of the City where the graceless varlet so much abused himself with carnal lust and vicious life, that he committed adultery with his Mistress, and dubbed the Alderman his master, Knight of the common Hall. Which lewd prank being detected and come to light, Thomas partly for stark shame and ignominy and partly for fear of the pains and punishment appointed by Law for such as he was, fled to the Saracenes: for whose devilish devices he was as fit an Organ and Instrument as any in the world: with whom, he was had in a great credit, specially after that his conversation and behaviour a long time continued and showed among them (for he had now dwelled among them xxv years) had given sufficient testimony & put them in an assured opinion of his fidelity toward them. Insomuch that renouncing and apostating his Christianity and abjuring the holy Religion of the Christians, he embraced the horrible doctrine of mahometical Religion. And being by them appointed Capitane of a competent Crew of warlike Soldiers was sent against the Christians. For he had promised unto them, that if they would furnish him out with some competent power, he would undertake to subdue the Roman Empire into their hands. And lest the Christians should have any mistrust & diffidence in him thus working and contriving the Toil of their confusion, or peradventure taking him as a stranger & forayner give no credit to his words, he named himself Constantine, the son of Irene. Which Constantine in very deed (for his crabbed nature and perverse manners) his mother long before had bereft of both his eyes and of the Empire also, and was then dead.  
Some others there be, which do affirm that this Thomas was whilom in the house of one Bardanius surnamed Turcus, together with Michael and Leo. At what time sojourning at a place called Philomelium, & seeking by all means how to make himself Emperor, he discovered his counsel and opened the very bottom of his stomach to a certain Monk skilful in the prediction of fortunes and things to come, to which devise and plat he made Leo Armenus privy. Unto whom the Monk told, that if he first aspired to the Empire, he should lose both his eyes and his worldly dignity: but of them, that brought him his horse, the first and second should enjoy the Diadem, and the third should be proclaimed Emperor: but not able to compass and thoroughly bring about, his desired purpose, he should shortly perish and be brought to confusion.  
The first was Leo, the second Michael, and the third this Thomas whom Leo the Emperor made Colonel over the Band of his Confederates. Which Leo, when Thomas understood to be slain by Michael, he partly to revenge the death of him through whose benevolence & goodwill he had been promoted to diverse dignities, and partly to ease his own Stomach and bring about the effect of his malicious mind (for Michael and he could never agree but maligned one an other even from their Adolescency) raised war against Michael, and first found the means to inveigle and raise up the oriental power (among whom he lived) to take part with him. Thus he gathered together an army not of weaklings and unexpert Soldiers, or of a few in number, but huge, Populous and hardy, of Saracenes, Moors, Indians, Medes, Persians, Assyrians, Armenians, Chaldees, Iberians, Zigians, Cabirians and diverse other Nations. Of whom, some by compulsion accompanied him in that War, some for good will, some in hope of spoil, and some for a rooted malice and hatred against Michael, who for his froward nature and perverse manners was generally hated of all men. For Thomas although he was lame on one of his feet, and a Barbarian borne, yet for his grey hears and ancient age he was reputed among them venerable and worshipful, in familiar talk and conference very courteous and affable (which are the things that most of all winneth the hearts of Soldiers) and for bodily strength not inferior to any.  
He thus furnished with an army of Saracenes, to whom he had promised the Constantinopolitan Empire, and also with a great power of Christians which ventured life limb and goods with him, violently invaded and forcibly got the possession of the Orient. And bringing under his obedience the exacters of public tributes with great stateliness of mind, followed the chase of good fortune now serving his turn and smile upon him, Within a while, of a low Haskerd become a great Ruler and of a weak apparel Pezaunt a mighty Potentate, by whom all Asia was with spoiling and pillage miserably afflicted. Some Cities for fear joined side with him, and conformed themselves to his humour. Some because they would not revolt from their true Liege the Emperor, were spoiled and the inhabitants carried away captive. So that there were none in all Asia but only the Opsicians and Armenians which continued in their true allegiance. For which gratuity & constant obedience, the Emperor released and frankly remitted unto them their public tribute called Fumarium. But Thomas was so puffed up with this success, that he presumptuously took upon him the name of Emperor: & was crowned with the Diadem at Antioch, by job Pastor or Bishop at that time of the Antiochene Congregation: whom he (to requited one good turn for another) adopted for his Son, and made as his fellow and Coadiutour in the administration of the Empire, and then changing his own name called himself Constantine the Son of Irene the Empress.  
The Emperor knowing of this new stir and commotion made preparation for war: and sent one of his Lords with an Army nothing equal (God wots) nor of power to match and encounter with his enemies: which was by Thomas discomfited and clean overthrown. After this, meeting with the Roman Fleet, took the same, and with lxxx M. men took his way to Abydus, which is a City of Asia the less, standing upon the Sea side, spoiling and destroying all where he went, & burning to ashes not only poor uplandish villages, but goodly towns and strong Cities. And from thence in a very dark night transfreted into Thracia, where many of the emperors Soldiers revolted and fled daily unto him. He put to flight and drove down all the Emperor's power sent against him. Whereof were chief Captains Olbian and Catacella, and (like a raging Stream, violently running down from a Hill) profligated both by Sea and Land and bore down before him, an other well appointed Navy, manned out likewise by the emperor against him. He burst asunder the iron chain that went overthwart the Haven & so laid siege to the city both by Sea and land. But prevailing nothing that way, he determined to win his purpose by long siege, and fortifying his Camp in very good order, sent part of his army to subdue the towns lying by the Coast of Euxine. This done, with the rest of his power (which was very great) he on every side beclipped the city with a mighty oppugnation and gave thereto a terrible battery. But by the valiant courage of the defendants, all his attempts were frustrate. And his Navy on the Sea by force of tempest was dispersed and dissevered, so that he was fain to bring his host back again into Asia till the winter were passed.  
The Spring following, he again returned to the same siege: but Michael being now better furnished and provided than he was before both with a Navy of tall Ships to scour the Coasts and keep the Seas, and also with an army of lusty soldiers by land, first assayed by divers slights to undermine Thomas his soldiers & to solicit them to renounce and forsake their captain but all was in vain. Wherefore setting all the Gates of the city open, he suddenly with all his company issued out and set upon Thomas suspecting no such pretence and matter, and him there discomfited, and his whole Fleet on the Sea also.  
There was one Gregory, cozen to Leo late Emperor, who with a crew of good fight Soldiers aided Thomas, but now seeing the world thus turned, separated forthwith his Soldiers apart from the residue, in hope thereby to win the emperors favour and set upon Thomas behind. Which when Thomas espied, being nothing therewith discouraged, nor yet therefore removing his strongly lodged Camp from the City, set upon Gregory with part of his Army and him discomfited, who for his safeguard flying away, he caught in the chase and put to death. Then speeding himself into his Camp again, he addressed his letters abroad into all quarters, untruly making report that he had gotten the upperhand against Michael in battle: and sent for the Navy that lay at Berytum, wherein were of Gallayes and Hulks to the number of CCC.L Sail, with all expedition to come unto him, as though the matter should forthwith be tried likewise by Sea. Which drift and commandment when the admirals and Captains of the Roman Navy understood and knew, they set upon them at unwares by night in the road, when they lay at Anchor, and with their sudden coming, so scared and afraid the Mariners that they were at their wits end and knew not how upon such a sudden to defend themselves: so that there many of them were by the Imperials taken, and many burnt, and very few escaped, which being quick of sail got away and joined themselves to the other Army that was on the land.  
While this terrestrial army lay before Constantinople, without any notable battle saving only manylight skirmishes, and small bickerings, wherein sometimes Fortune smiled and sometime frowned upon either part, the same and report thereof was spread and bruited throughout the World. In somuch that Mortago King of Bulgarie, (notwithstanding the Emperor for greediness and miserable sparing of his money as he was by nature most covetous and a near Prince, thanking him for his good will, had before refused his aid offering to assist him, saying that he had no need thereof) partly because he was desirous of War and spoil of his enemies, and partly to confirm the former three years League made with Leo Armenus, marched with an Army against Thomas, and him in a place called Cedocto, not far from Constantinople where the two armies met, in Battle overcame & vanquished, wherein many a man was slain, and after the end thereof returned home with many Prisoners and rich Booties.  
When the navy that Thomas had left at the Siege heard of this notable discomfiture and overthrow, they all revolted from Thomas and submitted themselves to the Emperor. Thomas gathering together the remnant of his Army that escaped unkylled at the last conflict with Mortago, conducted them into a plain Field called Diabasis, distant certain furlongs from the City, a place very commodious and fit for excursions, and for plenty of water very profitable. Where he anew encamped. From thence making vagaries and roads, he wasted and despoiled all the emperors sumptuous buildings and banqueting houses of pleasure standing in the Suburbs of the City. The Emperor having his Army every day more and more increased, struck up Alarm and gave the charge upon him in three several parts, whereby he thoroughly put all Thomas his Army to flight. For Thomas before had given commandment to his men, that at the first onset, they should retire and make a show as though they fled, and afterward upon the sudden turn again and recharge upon their enemies. After this discomfiture many of his men fled to the Emperor. Thomas with a few of his adherents came in safety to Adrianople and his adoptive Son Anastasius escaping also by flight, took for his safeguard the castle of Byzia. After whom the Emperor without delay making pursuit, went first to Adrianople where Thomas was. And lest the Scythians dwelling thereabout, should learn the knowledge of such engines and Arrtyllerie as serve for Battery and oppugnation of Cities, he determined by famine to drive them to surrender and yield, and so beclipped it round about with a strong Siege.  
The City was well walled and beside that, surely entrenched and fortified with Bulwarks. But they were so pinched with Famine, that all their victuals being spent, they secretly had conference with Michael and being at a point and composition with him for pardon of this their rebellious conspiracy, delivered Thomas into his hands. The Emperor now having in his possession his deadly enemy, 
End of Traitors  observing the ancient custom of other Emperors in like cases, first made him to prostrate himself upon the Pavement and Stones, which done, he set his feet upon his neck, and trod upon him.  
Then he caused his Feet and hands to be cut of, and so setting him upon an Ass, commanded him to be carried about the Camp, for every man to wonder at. Whereat the miserable caitiff said in howling sort these words: Have mercy & compassion upon me thou that art the true King. And when he was about, upon the Emperors interrogatories & motions to have bewrayed & accused certain of his familiars, as privy and of counsel with him in this ruffling rebellion, the Emperor being advised by Exambulius one of his Nobles, that no credit aught in such cases to be given to a professed enemy, accusing the approved friends of his Majesty, would not hear him. And so giving order for his execution, caused him, (long languishing in terrible torments) to be put to death.  
They that fled to Byzia, following the example of the Adrianopolitanes, took Anastasius and delivered him bound to the Emperor, who also was put to execution. This end had Thomas, whose history (although he were no Saracen) we thought good not here to omit, because he chiefly achieved and perpetrated the same by the aid and power of the Saracens, insomuch that he might right well seem to have been the Emperor and Ringleader of the Saracens.  
While these things were in doing in the Orient, the Saracens in Spain, most arrogantly by their Ambassadors demanded of Ramire King of Asturians (who succeeded Alphonsus Castus) the Tribute which king Mauregat was wont to pay. Unto whom Ramire by the advise of his privy Counsel answered, that he had leifer die a hundredth deaths then so to do. And forthwith levying an army marched against them wasting and destroying their Territories and Countries, as far as Nagiera. Between whom and the Saracens was fought at Aluelda a sore battle, and sorer had been if the night had not made an end of the same for that day, wherein forasmuch as the Saracenes were liker to have the victory: Ramire by night with his company retired unto a certain hill near Clavigium: and there greatly fearing the doom of Fortune the next day, and what would befyde on him and his, after so unlucky a beginning, sought his only refuge at God's hands, bestowing (both he and all his retinue) the whole night almost in watching and prayer to Almighty God for his assistance in that their grievous extremity. Then and there (as some do say) Saint james the Apostle seemed personally to appear unto him, promising him his help and furtherance, whereupon Ramire the next day coming into the field in good array of battle, against his enemies, with an assured confidence of Divine help and assistance, the said holy Apostle Saint james was seen in the battle, sitting upon a white horse and bearing in his hand a red Cross, and that in the same Battle were slain of Saracenes. lxx. thousand. Then were Albaida, Clavigium, Calagurra, and many other towns thereabout regained by the Christians: In token and remembrance of which victory by the Divine assistance of Celestial presence achieved, 
By whom & whereupon the Knights of the order of S. james were first instituted.  the Noble order of the Knights of Saint james was by the King instituted.  
The Saracenes inhabiting the West part of Spain where Valentia standeth, pestered with multitude of people, and considering that the Country which was unto them for their habitation allotted, was neither fruitful nor wealthy, desired their high Prince of Marrocco in Mauritania Tingitania whose name was Amerumen, to permit and license them to seek some other place of dwelling, where they might more commodiously roust: and whither they might carry their people, and family and plant themselves more to their contentations. Whose requests their Prince, as one desirous of new alterations and changes of the world granted: and furnishing them out of hand with a Havie of Brigandines and Gallayes, partly because he would staunch their greedy appetites with other men's goods, and partly because he would by this means try and seek out whether there were any fruitful Soil and fertile Island, whereinto he might conveniently derive a Colony of his own people, sent them to the Isles of the Orient. They landed first in Corsica, but thence they were repulsed and driven away by Abdemar, whom Pipine the Son of Charles the Great King of Italy, had sent with the Genaway fleet against them. In which conflict, Abdemar most valiantly and manfully fight was slain. From thence sailing to the Isles of Grecia (which were spoiled and disfurnished of the Havie appointed to keep them, through the means of the Garrison that took part with Thomas) they sacked and rob almost every one of them unmercifully. Among all the rest, liking Creta best, both for fertility of the Country, and holesomenes of Air, they laded their Ships with pillage and returned for that year home again, and in the Spring following, with xl tall Ships well manned and appointed for the Wars, they having a prosperous gale of wind came strait again to Creta. And setting their men on land at a Promontory called ever after Carax, set their Ships on fire, and there pitching their Tents, strongly entrenched themselves, calling the place by the name of Caudax. Against whom, the Emperor with all expedition sent a power under the conduct of Photinus lieutenant of the Orient, and one Damianus who in a certain skirmish against them, was slain, whose death so much, astoned and discouraged the residue, that they trusted to then legs and ran away. Then there came unto them a certain Monk out of the mountains of that Island, who told them that the place which they had chosen to build a City upon, was nothing fit for such a purpose: and withal, showed unto them a place, named Candaces, in all points far more commodious.  
Where they builded a City, which should be as the Castle and fortress of the whole Isle, and called it Candie. Out of which they made roads and invasions into the whole Isle, insomuch that within a short space they brought the same wholly into their subjection, dispossessing the inhabitants and carrying the Citizens away into Captivity. At which time, Cyrillus Bishop of Gortyne, suffered Martyrdom for the profession and testimony of jesus Christ, our only Saviour. another navy of them about the same time, attempted once again the winning of Sardinia & Corsica: the which was encountered and vanquished about Sardinia by the power of Charles, the brother of Pipine, being under the conduct of the County Bucharede, & v. M. of the saracens slain, & all the rest of them afterward by him clean driven out of Corsica.  
Pipine having wars with the Venetians, the Saracens in Spain, taking occasion by the discord and dissensions of the Christians to bring their own matters to desired effect, suddenly invaded Sardinia, from whence not long afore, they had been repulsed with a notable slaughter & loss of their people. But staying not long there, they suddenly departed thence: cutting their course directly to Corsica. And sacking the City Aleria, beside the Bishop and a few other old men, all the other multitude & common sort they carried thence away with them. The Emperor Michael, sent out another Navy whereof was Captain Craterus the Lieutenant of Cyberetes, against the Saracenes which rousted & nestled in Crete. Who with lxx Sail of his own and an infinite number of Galleys of other Islands, well manned & appointed, courageously landed in Crete: where he found the Saracens never a whit abashed of his arrival, neither refusing by dent of sword and stroke of battle to darraigne their quarrel. Whereupon, they met together in a place meet for such a purpose: where between them was fought a sharp and cruel Battle, lasting from the dawning of the day till Noon, in such doubtful fortune that hard it was to judge, whether part in th'end would carry away the victory. But at length toward Evening the Saracens were overcome and fled: whereof many were slain in the field but more, throwing away their weapons were taken: insomuch that that day their City was like to have been taken and won, if it had not been so near night. Which night and victory was the destruction and overthrow of the greeks as afterward shall appear. For being now in their jollity and pride, hoping the next day following with small labour or none at all, to bring those few of their enemies yet left alive into their power) gave themselves to bi●ynge, riot and bellychere as though they had not been in their enemy's precinct and danger but at home in their own houses, taking no regard to set heir watch kept, or any other expedient order observed: Insomuch that minding no other thing but sleep, ease and stouth (the utter overthrowers of all goodness) they were set upon in the dead time of the night, 
drunkenness the cause of a general mishap and slaughter.  snorting with their drunken nolls, by the Saracenes (who espied the advantage and opportunity) and were slain every Mother's son, not somuch as a Messenger left alive to carry home news of their ill speed. Only Craterus the Captain, embarking himself in a merchants Craer, sought to save his life. But when the Chievetayne of the Saracenicall Army after long seeking and tumblinge among the dead Carcases and Prisoners could not find him, knowing him then to be escaped and fled, sent in all post hast to pursue and hunt him out. Who being taken and apprehended in the isle of Coo, was hanged upon a Gibbet.  
The Emperor Michael hearing these news commanded Oryphas a wiseman and very skilful in Martial affairs to gather together the Praetorian Legion (which because every soldier of that Legion had for his wages xl. Crowns was then called Quadragenaria) and with them he sped himself against the saracenes, whom he greatly endamaged, sometimes killing them as they ranged licentiously and excursively abroad into other Islands for spoil, partly breaking out upon them out of Stales and Ambushes, laid for the nonce to entrap them; and partly by open conflicts & pitched battles. He also cooled the courage and abated the pride, & ●●moderate audacity of them that usurped the Country of Crete.  
At this time, there was one Euphemius, captain of a certain Band of Soldiers in Sicily who not able to master the lascivious passions of inordinate love, perforce took a virgin out of the Cloister where she was professed Nun, and had vowed chastity from her tender age, 
Inferiors take example of their Superiors  and her by the example of his Lord and Master the emperor (who also had aforetime perpetrated the like enormity) ravished and carnally knew against her consent and will. For which impyous act, her Brothers made complaint to the Emperor with humble request the this detestable example might not escape the penalty & punishment due for such a villainy. Whereupon the Emperor sent Commandment to the Regent of Sicily, that if this were true) he should slit and cut of Euphemius his nose. Euphemius understanding what sentence and judgement the emperor had given against him, entered into a conspiracy with his own Soldiers and other Captains besides, and they altogether fled to Ambulak bishop of the Saracenes in Mauritania. promising unto him that if he might by his help and means be proclaimed Emperor of Romans, he would deliver and bring all Sycile in subjection under him, and would moreover pay unto him a great Tribute. Which offer and condition Ambulak not refusing, invested him with the title of Roman Emperor, and furnished him with a great Army, by means whereof he won the possession of Sicily: but Euphemius making his progress and walks about Sicily in the habit and stately gesture of Emperor, was at the City of Syracuse slain.  
Then began the Saracens to set foot into Calabria and divers other parts of italy, making therein great havoc and spoil: of whom, one Navy perished and was cast away about the Coasts of Sardinia, the other (for there were two sent out) in fléeinge wise returned home. Which caused Ambulak to conclude a peace with the french King.  
But within a while after, Bernard the Son of Pipine reigning in Italy, the Saracens despising and rejecting the peace that Ambulak had made, invaded Corsica: who in their return homeward being laden and full fraught with booties and great store of pillage, were in the main Sea encountered by one Ermengarius, a man of great power in the greater of the Baleare islands, & to the behoof of the king of Italy maintained a garrison there, by whose prowess the Saracenes at the first onset were clean discomfited and put to flight, and divers of their Ships intercepced and taken, beside 500 Christian Prisoners in them, which were rescued and saved. Notwithstanding all this misfortune and discomfiture, the Saracens would rest, but coasting about Italy with their Fleet suddenly landed and surprised a town, in the Coast of Hetruria, named Centumcel, which now is called the old City. Which being so taken, they sacked and with Sword and Fire defaced most ruefully. From thence holding on their vioage toward Narbon they destroyed, haryed and spoiled the Country all about, and that done invaded Sardinia where they practised all kind of waist and robbery. But as they fetched their vagaries and licentious roads, Ermengarius again with the power of the isle by him assembled, upon a sudden gave the charge upon them, put them to flight, and with great slaughter on their side, drove them to the Sea, where for haste as they thick and threefold strived, who might first get a board they were killed down right at the pleasure and full desire of their Enemies. Being thus grievously afflicted and having lost a great part of their Navy, they weighed up their Ankers and sailed into Africa. And they which were in Sycile, hearing that the Venetians (to gratyfie the Constantinopolitan Emperor) unto whom that Isle was subject) purposed to sand a Navy against them, filled their Bags and stuffed their pouches with such spoil and pray as they liked and went their way.  
After this, Haido whom Lewes King of France and the Emperor had made Ruler of Aquitanie by treachery and guileful dealing surprised and ruffled the City Ausonia, and because he was not of power himself to keep the same, he procured aid from the Spanish Saracens, by whose help he spoiled far and near both Aquitanie and the hither part of Spain. Whose purpose and pretence, Lewes within short space repressed. And Alphonsis surnamed Magnus, King of Asturia and Lion, near to the river Duerro vanquished two Armies of the Saracenicall King of Toleto, which were thither sent to besiege and oppugn the City of Lyon. Moreover he raised the Siege that the Saracenes had bend against Coimbra, and set the same free from their dreadful oppugnation.  
And when he was in building the City of Zamorra, the same Saracenes under the conduct and leading of a Prophet of theirs, named Alchama, came against him, whom he vanquished, and of them slew a great number, and among the rest their captain Alchama: and took Abboaline prisoner, 
A Church built with the money the a Saracen paid for his ransom.  a captain of great fame and estimation among them, who ransomed himself for two C.M. Ducats and so was delivered. With which money the King new builded the famous Temple of S. james in Ouiedo of Marble, which was before but of Brick.  
But in Italy the Saracens had taken Palermo the most famous and noble City in all Sicily, neither was there any man that would take upon him to resist their furious attempts or once go about to prevent or repress their malicious devoyres, saving only Boniface Countée of Corsica, who accompaignied with his Brother Beatrius and a few other of the Barons and Lords of Hetruria sailed into Aphrica and landing between Utica and Carthage slew so many of his Enemies in four cruel Battles, that like as the Carthaginians whilom were enforced to call home Hannibal out of Italy, so the Saracenes were feign to call home their people that were then in Sicily: and so Sicily was delivered from the pestiferous oppression and extreme danger of Saracenicall Hostility. After which victories gloriously by Boniface achieved, he with great foison and plenty of prey and rich booties returned home with his victorious Navy out of Africa. But the Saracens could not in any sauce abide to be long quiet, but within a while, with a greater power and puissance then at any time before, they invaded Italy, and again took the City Centumcell. 
Rome spoiled by the Saracens.  From thence in post hast with a running Camp they sped them toward Rome, and with little labour got the possession of Vaticanum, and after they had spoiled the goodly Church of S. Peter (which standeth in that place) and taken away the Doors of Silver which it had, of price and value inestimable, they profaned it with fire and sword most sacrilegiously. And tarrying there certain days they were fully bend to have laid Siege to the City, but hearing that an army was levied and in coming against them out of Lombardy they departed and ruthfully wasted all the Suburbs and villages near the City that lay between the two ways Appia and Latina. They spoiled and rob the Cathedral Church of S. Paul in the way called Via Ostiensis, and consumed the most part of it with fire: from thence turning into Latina Via, they spoylingly rushed into the precinct and Chase of Cassinum, and rob the Temple of Cassinum of all the holy Ornaments, Vestures, Relics, and Gifts whereof it had marvelous great store, and utterly ruynated a great part thereof. Then keeping their way by the right side of the river Leire, they sped them apace toward the Sea, in such populous Plumps, that they were like unto a violent swift storm or terrible whirlwind: and fraughting their Ships with their spoils and booties, which lay there ready, they hoist up their Sails and launched into the main Sea.  
And in Hispaine, Abduramen King of Corduba entering into the borders of Biskaye, fought most valiantly and fiercely the space of a whole day with the Armies and power of Ordonius King of Lion and Gartias & Ignigenius of Biskaye: and fortune seeming for that day to dispose and incline the victory to neither party, departed the Battle. Ordonius meaning to requited & pay home Abduramen, entered into his Country, and subverted the Town of Cintilia, which is now called Santiliana. But in Asia, Imprael the Caliph of Syria, succeeding Muamat, with a huge power broke into the confines and limits of the Roman Empire. Against whom, the Emperor Theophilus marched with his royal Army, and having in his company two most valiant Captains Theophobus and Manuel, in whose prowess and dexterity in arms he reposed his whole trust and confidence, was fully resolved and determined to give unto him battle: of whose approach and coming, Imprael being certified whether he did it upon an arrogance & disdain, or that he feared the event and fortune of Battle, leaving behind him one Abuzachar with lxxx thousand good fight and well appointed men to try the quarrel by stroke of mortal conflict, departed and went his way with part of his Army. The battle being joined and clasped together, and the Saracenes getting the upperhand, Theophilus with his Praetorian band and two. M. Persians and Theophobus, escaped and attained into the top of a little Hill, which being fiercely assailed and beset with Saracenes, whose only desire was to take the Roman Emperor Prisoner, the Roman Soldiers most valiantly fight for the safeguard and incolumity of their Lord and Master the emperors sacred Majesty, defended. The conflict continued, sharply and desperately foughten on both sides till the Evening. But as soon as night was come, Theophobus by a pretty sleight and Stratagem deluded the Saracenes and brought themselves out of that present danger and extremity. For he commanded his Soldiers, as loud as they could to shout and make a noise, and to sound their Trumpets and play upon their haps and musical Instruments, as though there had come some fresh aid and secure to relieve and rescue them at that present pinch of distress. Which devise fell out according to his first imagination. For the Saracenes surely thinking that more aid was come, and fearing least they should be entrapped and on every side enclosed by their enemies, discamped and removed six Miles further of, and so the Emperor with all his retinue and Host being delivered out of danger, came safe to the residue of his Army, which saved themselves by flight at the last conflict. For which politic Stratagem and wise shift, the Emperor made Theophobus chief General and Lieutenant of the whole Army. And the year following, making another voyage and expedition against the Saracenes, vanquished them in a notable Battle at Charsianum, and so with twenty and five thousand Prisoners he returned home.  
Again, the third year he levied his power and marched against them and joining Battle with them was so circumvented and beset with his enemies that he had almost fallen into their hands. Which danger of the Emperor, Manuel chief captain of the Army under him perceiving, encouraged and incensed the minds of his Soldiers with a vehement Oration and made a way perforce to the place where the Emperor was distressed, 
A pitiful state.  and him (being now wearied and utterly despairing of any escape or remedy, yet minding to abide the uttermost hazard, rather than he would dismay and leave his Soldiers comfortless through his departure, saying that he would not by flight betray the lives of his poor vassals into the merciless talauntes of that wicked generation) delivered and brought out of that danger, not without, threats and menaces that he would kill him unless he would consent to follow him opening the way and passage for him to escape. And the fourth time, both the Armies with all their powers coming into the field without any notable thing done worthy of remembrance, returned home. The fift year, Theophilus leading his Army far within Syria, wasting and spoiling all the Country in his way, wan and Conquered Zozopetra the Country and Seat of Impraell, which so nettled and chafed Imprael, that he assembled all the power he was able to make with intent to invade Amorium the Country of Theophilus. His Army met all together at Tharsus: whither when Imprael himself was come, he sent his Son with part of his Army before, to skirmish and dally (as it were in the way of an assay) with the Roman Host, which was lodged and emcaped at Dorylaeum three days journey from Amorium. And unto him he appointed ten thousand Turks and all the power of Armenia. Who being thus furnished and appointed with men and armour and encamped at Drazymenum, Theophilus went against him and lodged his Host in a place called Auzin, purposing before he would join any Battle to espy and discover the multitude and number of his enemies.  
Army (for that the Saracenes as though they had been afraid, kept their heads within the walls of their city) was lulled in security, giving no regard to orderly behaviour, nor to the good keeping of their watch, the Saracenes all in armure upon the third day after the Siege was planted, when all the Roman Soldiers were assembled & congregated together to here divine service (for it was upon a sunday) setting open their Gates and issuing out suddenly, killed and manquelled the Romans on every side: insomuch that the Emperor himself had much a do to escape, losing and leaving behind him all his carriage and provision. And again within two years next after, the Saracenes entered within the di●ion and limits of the Roman Empire with thirty. M. men, wherefore Michael meaning to win his Spurs again & to be even with the saracens for the foil lately taken at their hands, levied an Army of xlv. M. Thracians and Macedonians, and marched against them. Which when they knew, by dangerous journeys and compendious paths they prevented his purpose, setting upon him suddenly and at unawares being in his journey and out of order. Whereby he was discomfited and compelled to flee. And at that time, they say that Michael had fallen into the hands of his Enemies, if Manuel had not venturously entered and violently broken into the breast of the Enemy's Army and disturbinge their array delivered him from danger.  
Two years after this, Mamume the Son of Imprael being Caliph of Syria, the Saracenes with an Army of xl. thousand men spoiled and overrun Armenia and all the Sea coasts cruelly. At which time, the Caliph is reported to have done as Xerxes long afore did, commanding the Sea to be whipped and beaten with Scourges, because it stopped his intent, that he could not have his will to go any further. Michael who could not with patient mind brook and digest these injuries, sent his Uncle Petrona (Lieutenant of Thracia) with a great power against Mamume. Who encamped himself in a certain place called Lalacaeon, and setting Stales and Ambushes on every side to surprise and entrap his foes when advantage should be offered, provoked Mamume to the encountry and battle. Mamume being thus beset, and on every side circumvented by his Enemies, like unto a Bird in a Cage, or a Dear in a Buckstall, was at his wits end, not knowing how to escape or shifted himself out of that imminent peril. And demanding of one of the Roman captives (whom he had taken Prisoner) the name of that Country and place wherein he had pight his Pavilyons and Camp, and by what name the river there hard by, was called, answer was made by the Prisoner, that the Country was called Lalacaeon, the place Ptoson, and the river Gyris.  
Whereby he presaged and by the appellations of the same places (for he was a man well seen in the Greeque and Latin Tongues, and earnestly given to the study of Philosophy) immediately conjectured the those names portended his confusion and some notable overthrow of his people, and signified that he and his retynew should be on every side beset and caught like Fishes in a Net by the Romans. Notwithstanding, he encouraged his men not to quail and despair, but to stand lustily to their tackeling and to determine with themselves to withstand their Enemies.  
Therefore the next morning, as soon as the day appeared, well perceiving himself to be hemmed in on every side, he determined to seek a way and egress by that part and place which Petrona guarded, and thereupon giving unto his men a watchword and token to give aloud shouts all at once, 
A Saracen Prince and all his host slain.  there set upon his enemies. But seeing his attempt and purpose to be all in vain, he a little retired, & after a small breathing, gave a sharp and fresh onset again, and using this order sundry times by starts giving a blow and away again, at length desperately with a vehement violence and force rushed into the mids of his enemies, and was there slain, both he and all his Host utterly.  
His Son whom he had sent on roving and spoiling with part of his Army, hearing of his Father's death and confusion, retired in haste to Melitena. But he was pursued and taken by the captain of the Charsian streicts, and presented to Petrona. This Mamume was surerly a man garnished and endued with many excellent qualities and notable virtues. 
An example of great love and liberality toward learning in a saracene.  For being himself singulerlie well learned, he cherised and entyerlye loved all them that were learned, esteeming and entertaining them very honourable, as by that example following shall appear, which for the worthiness and commendation thereof, I have thought good here to disciphere.  
There was in Constantinople (sometime called Byzance) a certain Philosopher named Leo, sometime bishop of Thesalonica, and now deprived from the Prelacy and Bysshoprich thereof by reason of a division and controversy touching the having and worshipping of Images, which at that time merueilouslye frushed and disturbed the Latin and the Greek Church. Being for this cause thence exiled, he came to Constantinople, where he hired a poor Cottage, and set up a School, professing to train and instruct such Scholars as resorted to him, in what Art soever every one was best disposed to learn. Insomuch that out of his private School there came many notable Clerks, very skilful in the studies of Arts and Philosophy, and among the rest, it so chanced about this time that a certain young man one of his Scholars, having by his masters industrious labour and diligence attained to an exact knowledge and skill of Geometry, was taken Prisoner in the wars by the Saracens, & chanced into the service or rather servitude of a noble man of great estimation and name among them. Whom Mamume by report and common bruit hearing to be well seen in the Mathematical Disciplines commanded to be brought before him. And causing him in a disputation to be thoroughly opposed, found, that he so far passed & surmounted the Arabian Geometricians, that of those things whereof they alone thought themselves to have the use and experience, he was well able to allege and bring the proper reasons and causes.  
Mamume greatly wondering at his precise and profound knowledge (for he had thought that no nation had had the skill of that Art but the Arabians only) asked him of whom he had learned his Art, and whether his master were yet living. The young man answered, that his masters name was Leo, a poor man, and as yet unlucky to the worldly goods of Fortune's gifts and disposition, but given altogether to his Book and Study. Whereupon Mamume straightways addressed his Letters to Leo in effect as followeth.  
Even as the Tree is known by his fruit, so we by the Scholar do well know the excellency of the Master. These therefore shallbe to request thee, that (forasmuch as God hath blessed thee with a gift so incomparable, and sithence thou livest there in poor estate, unknown or at lest unregarded of thy Citizens and Countrymen, reaping no fruit of thy rare wisdom and supernatural speculation) thou wouldst deign to come unto us, and make us partakers of thy admirable learning. This doing, make thy sure account, that all the Saracenicall nation shall submit themselves unto thee and be ready at thy hest and commandment, and thou shalt be enriched with such rewards, richesse and revenues, as never yet any man hath been. These letters he delivered unto the young man to carry to Constantinople, setting him free at liberty and rewarding him most honourably.  
When Leo had received these letters, he opened and told the whole matter to certain of the emperors familiars. And by this means be become known to the Emperor, who appointing unto him a competent stipend and pension commanded him to teach publicly. Mamume despairing of Leo his coming, sent unto him certain Geometrical and Astronomical questions and some of the other Sciences, desiring him therein to have his resolution. The which being cunningly by Leo assoiled he sent back again to Mamume, whereunto he had also annexed certain tokens and Signs touching the prediction of future things. Which Letters when Mamume had read, it is said, that he was ravished with such an ardent desire and zeal toward Leo, that he exclaimed in this sort: O happy and thrice happy are they I say, (O Divine Leo) which have the company and fruition of thy presence. Then forthwith he sent a solemn Ambassade with great rewards and rich presents unto the Emperor, and wrote his Letters also unto him as followeth: I was fully determined (as it becometh an unfeigned friend) to have come myself unto thee: but sithence the weighty affairs of our Empire and the governance of a most fierce and wild people, by God committed unto my charge (from whom all power and superiority floweth) will not so permit: I am feign in my steed to send unto thee my Ambassadors with request, that it may please thee to send unto me Leo, a man endued with great singularity in the knowledge of Philosophy and other Sciences, sojourning and making his abode within thy City of Constantinople. That he dwelling a while with me, may give me instructions and make me partaker of his doctrine, 〈…〉 fervently enamoured and as it were 〈…〉. Do not (I pray thee) defer the 〈…〉 my request because of any diversity 〈…〉 or for any unkind dealings between 〈…〉 deal with me herein like a friend. For 〈…〉 and courtesy we will give unto thee a. M. It in 〈…〉 and will enter into an infringible league and perpetual amity with thee and all thy Dominions.  
Which request the Emperor would not grant, lest the Sciences (for which the Romans were renowned and had in admiration among all Nations) should be communicated & discovered to the Barbarous people. Wherein he being a Greeque and a Christian, might full well have learned at the hands of a barbarous person and Idolatrous Infidel to reverence and condignly esteem virtue: which thing would God, Princes and noble men in this age, admonished by this goodly example would do. For ever afterward, he had Leo in great honour, and promoted him to great wealth and dignity, and restored him again to his See and Byshopprike of Thessalonica, where he was highly honoured and of all men reverenced for that through his forecasting wit & surpassing knowledge he converted and brought the land and ground of Thessalonica from barainnesse & sterility, to fruitfulness and fertility. But now it is time for us to return to discourse of Occidental matters.  
The Saracenes of Mauritania, transfreting out of Sicily (wherein they had taken and of long time usurped many Towns) into Italy, under the guiding and conduct of Saba, besieged Taren●o.  
The Greek and Venetian Navies joining in one, arrived in Calabria, to raise the Siege and to rescue the City. Wherefore hearing Saba, seyning as though he had been afraid, to th'intent he might the rather allure and provoke the enemy to cope with him, raised his Siege and discamped, and like as though he had been loathe to meddle, retired into the region of Crotona: where being afterward assailed and set upon, at the first brunt he discomfited and put to flight the greeks, 
Victory of saracens, over the greeks and Venetians.  and then the whole puissance of the Saracens was all bent & turned against the Venetians fight and defending themselves manfully: and a few of them in number being by a Navy so strong and mighty circumvented, were partly slain, partly drowned, but the Venetians in that conflict perished and were brought to confusion everyone, which victory set Saba so a float & ingenerated in him such haltiness and pride, that speedily coasting over the Ionian Sea, he arrived in the coast of Illyria, practising therein along the provincial borders great pillage and robbery, and hearing that the Venetian fleet was returning homeward, laden with Wares out of Syria, be brought about his Navy with all expedition into the Bay of Trieste, and from thence insidiously and suddenly setting upon them, spoiled and killed the Merchants and Mariners, and all the Rowers, their rooted hatred and spiteful rancour toward the Venetian name was so unappeasable. Lewsing thence, he cut his course toward Aucon a noble City of Picene, where there is a goodly haven, and it forcibly took and being taken, sacked and last of all consumed it with fire, and a few of the Oppidanes or Townsmen which tarried still, were taken. For the rest being brought into sudden fear and amazedness through this violent irruption were fled almost all into the main land and mediterranean region.  
Within a little while after, an other Navy of Saracens landed in the coast of Hetruria, with purpose and full intent to besiege and take the City of Rome. Whose sudden arrival and terrible approach filled all the City with terror and dread. Wherefore Pope Leo the fourth of that name assembled the people together, and unto them made this Oration following.  
What is the matter my Children whereof you are somuch afraid? 
Oration of Pope Leo the fourth, to encourage his Romans against the saracens.  or why are your minds thus troubled and appaulled? Certes there happeneth nothing unto us without the providence and will of the almighty God, neither is it sent unto us undeseruedlye on our parts. Then aught we to fear & dread their tyranny, when we fall at civil strife and go together by the ears among ourselves, when one Brother conspireth his Brother's death and destruction. For all they which do believe and confess Christ to be their Saviour and Redeemer, are Brothers. Then I say when the Brands of these mischiefs are kindled among us, we aught to fear, least God being highly displeased with us therefore, should sand these or rather worse plagues upon us. For if you think that these impious and barbarous people are sent unto us without the will and pleasure of almighty God, you are far deceived. For holy Scriptures do in many places testif●e & daily examples every where teach & confirm the same. God saying by his own mouth, that he will use the wicked blasphemers and the enemies of his sacred name as whips to scourge, and means to pursue his unfaithful, wilful and disobedient Children. And we do know, that the civil discord and flagitious dissoluteness of the greeks gave first occasion to this pestiferous and diabolical nation, to extend their rage and practise their first cruel invasion upon the Christians. Did not the lewd lying of the Goths and King Rodirick, allure them to set foot into Hispaine. Whom although these bellish Imps discomfited and condinglye punished, yet when they once converted their force and moved war against good and godly men, they were repulsed, put to flight and slaigne even of a few. What? do we fear this most dastardly rabble and lows●e nation more than we do Almighty God? for we doubt not a whit, every hour and every minute of an hour to offend his Divine Majesty, to provoke his wrath and anger against us, to revile and blaspheme his holy name: to show ourselves wilful, disobedient and stubborn to the lore of his sweet word and commandment and by our own fantastical devices to heap unto over selves the grievous sentence of his heavy displeasure: but at the only hearing of this reprobate generation, we tremble and quake for fear, as though human force and mortal Arms were more to be feared, then everlasting pains and eternal damnation. Where is the ancient puissance and knightly prows that was wont to be in the undaunted Romans? What is become of their valiantness, painfulness, travail and courage that in all extremity and adversity was ever invincible? Our Ancestors and forefathers, before Christianity was embraced, or Christ to the world notyfied and believed on, being yet blinded and nuzzled in idolatry and superstitious Religion, feared no force, no violence, no multitude of Enemies, but oftentimes with a small handful and power, vanquished the mighty & populous armies of their Enemies. The Gauls & French, being a people and nation most fierce and at that time by reason of the huygenes of their bodies formidable and dreadful (the limits of the Roman Empire being yet but streict and narrow, & the City nothing so great as now it is, men's courages also through the sudden irruption and coming of such a fierce and big nation marvelously abbashed) took in deed (I cannot deny) this City, having in it at that time no fort of defence nor commodius place made by art for resistance: but yet the Capitol, they were never able to take. And not suffered long there to roost, were by the valiance of one banished Roman thence repulsed and driven away with notable slaughter of a great maigny of their people. And behold, the Roman empire was not of such power and strength at that time as it is now. For the limits of the empire extended no further but to the Roman territory. Now whereas the greatest part of Italy is subject to the Roman State, and the City with people well replenished, having now not the Capitol only for your fortress, but a whole Town also by our industry and procurement annexed and united to your City, fortified and strengthened with all manner of Artificial devise and policy, having (I say) so many noble Personages and approved Captains both for skill & courage renowned, and the Sea of the most Catholic Religion here resiant, you now stand in dread and fear not of the Gauls, which be a worthy and noble nation not of the huge and populous armies of the Goths, nor yet of the Huns the subverters and destroyers of many most flourishing and noble cities: but of the most cowardly and rogish nation of all Asia, a pilfering rabble of Mauritanian, thieves and Vagarantes. The Man's head that was found in the ground where the Capitol standeth, gave such a destiny and fate thereunto, that no nation should be able by conquest and force to take it. Do you think that the Capitol was erst more safe and holy▪ being the Seat of Saturn, than it is now, being employed to a Castle of sincere and true religion? Believe me, believe me, neither the Saracenes nor any other wicked Nation which are the professed Enemies of Christ's name and Religion shall ever build their Bower & plant themselves in this City. Rome was builded under such a lucky Constellation, that the Empire thereof shall never quail but continued perpetually: and under this same destiny is this Town thereunto annexed and adjoined that it should be the See of Religion, which thing the most imperial and Cathedral Church of him that is chief of the Apostles assuredly promiseth. But peradventure you think, that God being provoked and moved to wrath by reason of our manifold sins & offences, hath given them leave thus to extend and show their villainous rage against us. I grant, we have demerited these and far greater Plagues, and that this ruffling stir is sent upon us not without the special foresight and providence of God, that taking warning and occasion by these adversities and oppressions, to amend our naughty lives, we may the better renounce our former haunt of licentious lusts, and with penitent hearts turn unto him. And so long shall they have power over us, as we persist & wilfully wallow in the stinking puddle of our ungracious ways. But if we truly repent and implore his mercy, this wicked Nation shall straightways give place and flee before us like sheep, whom we shall kill and slay down right before us, and revenge the injuries that they the years passed have done unto us and unto the Majesty of Almighty God, whose Temples and consecrated houses, they have wickedly polluted and most horribly profaned. Hereof may you make your full account, unless peradventure you think that the Asturians, the Cantabrians and French (who have oftentimes vanquished and with notorious calamities discomfited them) to have been better and more valiaunter men than you yourselves be. But they were not (believe me) and God is no less merciful to the present state and inward minds of men nowadays, than he was in the age and life passed. For at the godly Sermons and zealous admonitions of Pelagius and other holy men, they renounced their vicious ways and turning unto God besought his help to assist and deliver them out of thraldom. He is so merciful, and so ready to hear the petitions of the faithful that he never forsaketh nor leaveth destitute and comfortless them, that unfeignedly and heartily crave aid at his hands. amend your lives therefore, and well think with yourselves that you must with tooth and nail, so endeavour yourselves, that you may not in any wise for godliness and faith give place to any Nation in the world. Call to memory the pristivate valiance, of the Roman name, courageously advance forward, handle your weapons manfully and deal your puissant blows doughtily among yonder miscreant people, I myself will be your captain and go before you, and participate with you what event soever Fortune sendeth. I do assure you, the victory is most certainly in your hands, if you will do as before I have directed you. They whose chance shall be to die in this most godly quarrel and Battle, shall not only win in this world, a glorious fame & renowned praise, but shallbe afterward transported into the Kingdom of everlasting life and have their names registered in the Book, of life among the elect of God for ever.;]  
After he had made an end, as many as were able and fit for warfare, took weapon in hand, and followed him to Ostia. There meaning to receive at push of the Pike, the enemy, so soon as he should set any foot on land. When they evidently descried the enemies approach, and in sight perused their order, the bishop eftsoons commanding his Soldiers to bow the knees of their hearts and earnestly to pray unto God, implored the divine assistance and merciful aid of him that is the giver of all victory, whose words and Prayer were in effect as followeth.  
O almighty and most merciful father which against the victory unto Gedeon with a small number over the huge multitude of his enemies, 
A prayer.  than which never yet But perceiving that the same was not possible to be taken but by long Siege, he thence discamped and passed the river Euphrates by a bridge of Ships. And spoiling the the Country and places there abouts, assaulting and battering many strong holds, whereof some he took by surrender, he returned again to the city. Where he rested not long, but again making a warlike voyage & expedition into Syria against the Saracens, bend his whole force to win Germanicia and wan it. From thence he removed to the City Adata, which he fiercely besieged and burnt the Suburbs. Which City albeit the Citizen's and Inhabitants defended very slackly and negligently, yet could not he win and take it. Basilius wondering to see them so secure and negligent in such imminent danger, demanded of them the cause thereof, unto whom an ancient man of the City answered: that it was decreed by destiny that he should never win their City maugre all his force and battary, notwithstanding there should come one of his line and race called Constantine which should obtain the same by conquest, but it should not be his Son Constantine, who was with him in his camp at that present.  
At which answer Basilius so stormed and fumed that he gave the assault far more fiercely, and violently then at any time before he had done. But when he saw he could nothing prevail, he raised his Siege and went his way, but before his departure, he commanded all his Prisoners to be slain, lest they should stir up some disturbance and commotion & also because he would be out of fear and not need to appoint keepers unto them. Shortly after, the Saracens of Tharsus infesting the Roman Provinces, he sent one Andrew surnamed Scytha against them, who acquitting & behaving himself against them very honourably & knightly, their courage was alaid and their malicious attempts well bridled. Whereat the King of Tharsus so stamped and stared, that in most horrible and blasphemous terms he belched out words full of threats and spiteful contumelies against God, 
A revilinge Blasphemer.  in his Letters addressed and sent unto Andrew: Wherein be wrote, the if he had invaded and come in person against him, it was not the Son of Mary that should have holpen or delivered him.  
But it was not long before he felt the deserved smart and due guerdon of his audible myscreauncye. For coming himself with more aid to his Host, Andrew on the other side in good order marshaled his Camp and gave unto him battle: Where between them was fought a cruel conflict, but in th'end the Saracenes turned these backs and fled, in which Chase, most of them were slain, and among the rest the King himself, was there bereft of life and limb.  
It chanced within awhile after, that by the sinister means and envious rancour of some backfrindes which spited at his good success and valiant prowess, this Andrew was accused to the Emperor his master, that when he well might, he would not take and win the City of Tharsus: unto which surmised accusation, such credit was given, that Audrew was discharged of his generalshippe, and one Stypiota placed in his Room The Saracens which fors●owed no time nor occasion that might further their Affairs and proceedings, perceiving & understanding the through this privy grudge & new change, the watch was nothing at all looked unto, in the night time set upon them and slew of them very many, and the rest put to flight. On the other side, the African Saracens besieging Ragusium (which is a City standing in the borders and coasts of Illyria) and the Ragusines sending to the Emperor for aid and rescue, Basilius furnished out a hundredth tall Ships of War for their relief and safety. Whereof the Saracenes having intelligence, raised their Siege and took their journey into Italy, and taking the City of Barry, most lamentably afflicted and in a manner universally destroyed with fire murder and rapine the Calabrians, Apuliana Lucanes and Salentines. And being now in mind to divide Rome and the Empire of all Italy, share and share like among themselves, behold Pope john, greatly moved with pity and compassion to see his Country in such extreme peril, employed aid and besought Alberick (whose power was great in all Hetruria) to assist and join side with him, for the repulse of this dangerous invasion. Which Alberick with a mighty army that he had levied in his own Country and partly also mustered and taken up in and about Rome, 
Italians discomfired the Saracenes.  encountered them, after they had set foot within the Roman territory: and at the first not far from the City, in Battle them vanquished: but afterwards at the river of Leyre about the City Minturne he so notably discomfited them, that they were now resolved, and fully purposed altogether to departed quite out of Italy. Wherefore burning all along the Sea coast as they went, they departed into Apulia, and building a Castle upon Mount Gargan. and under the ridge of the same Mount a Town strongly fenced and fortified for the wars, they continued there for many years, sore infesting and spoiling italy. Then they took Benevent and it ransacked and after fired. Which terrible example so amazed and astoned the other cities adjoining, that without resistance, they received the Garrisons of that nation within their walls. But aid being sent by the Pope, the barbarous mammets doing all rather with pillage and robbery, then with any just war, departed without any battle out of the Roman limits and dominions. And an other fleet of the same nation coming out of Africa, after long and cruel Siege took the city of Geane, and at their first entry slew all the defendants, but the maidens, Damoselles, Matrons and young boys they shipped and carried away with them into Africa. But Dandulus Venetus writeth, the all of the Male sex returned afterward home again into their Country, but how and by what means that came to pass, is by none declared nor written. Geane was won and taken in the year after the incarnation 935. And the Saracenes being first dispossessed of the Castle of Mount Gargan by the Dalmatians, 
Geane take●  and afterwards in many overthrows weakened and vanquished by the Pannonians, were lastly by Otho Emperor of Germans in the year of our Lord 969. quite expulsed and driven out of Italy. The greeks, do here make their avaunt, that Italy was delivered and rid out of the servitude and dreadful oppression of the Saracens through the aid and help of their Constantinopolytane Emperor, in that the French succoured and relieved them, for the good will and friendship that they bore to their Emperor. For they say, that the italians hearing Rhagusium to be rescued and delivered from the Siege by the Greekish Navy, submitted themselves under the obeisance of the Empire, and requested aid also for themselves. Whereupon, Basilius by his Letters directed & addressed unto the Frenth King, treated with him to aid them, and by him was the Sultan taken and brought to Capua: who afterward by the favourable means of the Commons of Capua (with whom he had conspired against thee) King was set at liberty, and the King being thence expulsed, he inferred war upon the Capuans, but by the aid of the greeks which came against him, he packed and went away. This French King of whom they surmise this talk and History, I think should be Carolus Crassus the fift Emperor of Germans, but for the truth thereof, I refer you to my Authors the greeks, whom I will, shall shift for themselves touching the credit of the premises.  
a most noble victory. He wasted and subverted Berraea all saving the Castle, where he found great store of riches and treasure, and taking innumerable of them prisoners delivered many Christians out of thraldom Afterwards this Nicephorus Phocas being advanced to the Empire, Duke Manuel, the Bastard son of Leo, was sent with a mighty Navy against the Saracens into Sicily, where through negligence & want of skill he with all his host was slain. And at the very same time, john Zimisca (afterward Emperor) being sent into Cilicia, had the upperhand of the Saracens at the City of Adana. Then Nicephorus himself in person, with a great power entered into Cilicia and took Anabarza, Rosa and Adana three proper Cities of that Province, with many other strong holds and Castles: which done, he returned into Cappadocia and there wintered. In the beginning of the next Spring he went thither again, and sent his brother Leo with a part of his army to Tharsus, & himself laid siege to Mopsihestia, through the middle whereof, there ran a river named Sarus. While the Emperor laid hard siege and sore distressed the one side thereof, the Saracens seeing no remedy set fire in that part, and departed unto the other part, which being also conquered and won he slew of them every man. When the Tharsians heard thereof, they submitted themselves to the Emperors grace. And within three days after, a Navy was sent out of Egypt to aid the Tharsians, which could not attain to land, and in their return homeward, what with force of weather and blustering winds, and what with incursions of the Roman Gallayes, they were for the most part all lost and cast away. When the Emperor was returned home to Constantinople, he caused the brazen gates which he had brought from the winning of Tharsus & Mopsihestia, of excellent workmanship & curious art, to be set on the East & West side of the Castle with other new ornaments & garnishments of his own cost added thereto. Then he invaded Syria and having partly beaten down and partly wasted the Cities about Libanus & the Sea coast, he came before Antioch, which City standeth upon the river Orontes. But the Antiochians standing at resistance, and also victual in his Camp waxing very scant beside such continual rain, that the ground was all overflown & covered with water, he was feign to build a bastille on the Mount Taurus, which is at this day is called Maurus, leaving there behind him to infest & skirmish with the Antiochians, Michael Burze whom he had advanced to be one of his chief Nobility, & invested with the title of the captain of Mount Taurus. And appointed one of his eunuchs named Peter, a valiant, constant & skilful warrior, master of his Tents and Pavilions to see order taken & provided for the wintering of his host in Cilicia, after which order ●o taken, he returned to Constantinople. Burzes with many venturous Roads & excursions laid sore to the charge of the Antiochian Saracens, and them greatly molested, studying by all means to win honour and glory by deeds of Arms and to take the City. Upon a time he privily measured out the altitude and height of the Tower of the same, and preparing scaling Ladders equal in height therewith, in a very dark and snowy Winter night, he came secretly and without making any noise under the walls of the City: 
Antioch taken.  where setting up his Ladders, with. CCC. men that he had brought thither with him for the same purpose, he mounted up, and killed the watchmen and keepers of the Tower and as many as he could meet withal: and straightways dispatched a courier to the Master of the Tents and Pavilions to advertyze him, how the case stood and what he purposed to do, willing him speedily to come with more power to aid him and be partaker of that glorious & noble enterprise.  
The Antiochians knowing their chief Tower to be taken, ran courageously to repel and dispossess the Romans out of the same.  
Now the Master of the Tents had in charge from the Emperor, that he should not in any wise invade Antioch, because the common brute went, that the captivity of that City did portend within awhile after, the emperors confusion, which bred in him such doubtful cares, that he knew not what to do in that case, nor which way to take. Nevertheless loathe, that so many valiant men should through his default perish, & thinking it no point of humanity to see them thus fall into the lapse for want of a small aid, marched with all his power and invaded Antioch: at whose coming the Saracenes were so dismayed that their hearts fainted and their stomachs immediately quailed. Burzes & his company which before despaired of any help or remedy, looking for nothing but present death, took new heart agrace and were revived, and bursting open the Gates with his battle Axe, made free passage and ingress for the ma●ster of the Tents and his train to enter.  
Thus was Antioch one of the noblest Cities in the world, brought into the power of the Romans, which shortly after, in the time of the Emperor john Zimisca, the Saracenes with all their joint powers and forces both of the Orient and occident attempted to recover. And so under the conduct of the Caliph of Cairoan in Africa, (because the power of the Caliph of Syria was now sore weakened and brought to a low ebb) they planted their Siege about it. Whose invasions and malice the citizens and Inhabitants manfully and constantly withstood, till the Emperor might hereof be certified. Who having intelligence of this general conspiracy of the Gentiles, commanded his Provost of Mesopotamia to aid his besieged Friends and Subjects. Who according to his charge and commission in a pitched battle (wherein the Saracenes were in number far more than the Romans) them disparkled, chased and discomfited.  
Now because I see the empire of the Saracens to draw apace toward an end and final ruin, we must before we proceed any further, briefly and compendiously write of the remnants and relics of them that yet lurked in Africa and Spain: and first we will speak of Spain, then afterward of Africa.  
In Spain therefore Ramire King of Lion in the year of our Saviour Christ 901. making war upon the Saracenes, destroyed a Town of theirs named Madrite and put them to flight near unto Osma and made Benaiam King of Saragoza Tributary unto him. Whom (afterward rebelliously joining in league with Abduramen King of Corduba and turning to his old vomit again) Ramire eftsoons vanquished and took Prisoner in battle near to a Town called Syn●ncas, wherein there were slain of the Saracenes thirty thousand, and many other annoyances and harms did he unto them: afterward lying at the Siege of Talau●ra, he overcame the Toletane Saracenes which came to raise the Siege and to rescue the City, of whom. seven. M. were taken and xii. M. slain. After this Sancius king of Lion being deprived and driven out of his kingdom by his own people came to Abduramen king of Corduba to be cured of a certain disease by the help of his Physicians, whom for cunning and knowledge he had heard to be the expertest and skilfullest that were then in all the world. Whom the king of Corduba did not only cause to be healed, but also with his power and help (maugre all his foes) restored him to his Room and dignity. But after that he was dead, the Saracenes wan Symancas, Duengas Sepulueda and Gormas, towns belonging to the kingdom of Lion and razed Zamorra. And within awhile after, destroyed and everted Portugal the head of all Lusitanie and Compostella. After the death of Abduramen, Alliagib his successor in that kingdom, naming himself Almansor (which is as much to say) as the protector of king Mansor his Lord and master, because be hoped thereby the rather to allure the people's goodwills, and under that colour to insinuate himself into their favours (for at that time Mansor reigned at Marrocco. Which City (as we have afore showed) was the Seat royal of all the Saracenes Empire Occidental, under whose jurisdiction and rule all the inferior kings of the Saracenicall nation in Spain lived) gathered a mighty power and invaded the Territories of the Castulonians, Lion and B●●kaye.  
The City of Lion he almost utterly defaced, the Towers and Bulwarks thereof, which were all of Marble, he razed and heat down to the ground, leaving only one, untouched and unblemished, to the intent that the memory of the beauty and gorgeousness of that City might appear and remain to posterity. He took Asturia and Coiaca which is now called Valen●ja (not that Valentia which standeth upon the midland Sea, but an other in the kingdom of Leon by the Pyrenes) and Sansagnium with many other Towns. And in the Precinct of the Castulonians, he destroyed Osma, Alcobetla, Berlanga and Atienza: and of the Gallycian Towns, he took S. james, and commanded the Bells to be carried away thence to Corduba, where he used them in steed of Lamps in his profane Temples, & in this sort he continued outraging and keeping sharp wars for the space of twelve years. Till at length Bermudes King of Lion with the powers of the Castulonians, the Byskayes and his own bad unto him battle in a place called Calataicor. This battle was fiercely foughten on both sides for the space of a whole day, where were slain of the Saracenes many thousands, and in th'end Almansor with all his retinue and Adherents fled and shortly after died for sorrow of his overthrow. The Spaniards ruffling and spoiling their camp, found therein great booties & prays which they at their flight had left behind them. Abdimelick greatly moved with his father's misfortune, and purposing to recover and have amends for the same, was also vanquished. But afterward in the reign of Alphonsus the Son of Bermudes, the Saracenes again invading the borders & frontiers of the Castulonians, destroyed Auila & took Ormetum with any other towns. And Alphonsus reedifled the city of Lyon. After all this, there sprang up civil wars among the Spanish Saracenicall Kings and Princes, whereby the power of the Christians in that province daily increased, 
Granado won from the Saracenes & Infideles by King Ferdinando Granfather to Charles the fift Anno D. 1492.  insomuch that Mahomet Enas●r Bishop of Marrocco being vanquished in Gottalonia near to Valentia and ix. M. Saracenes slain with him in the year of our redémption 1150. the Christians within thirty. years following, recovered Valentia, Devia, Alicante, Muria, new Carthage, Corduba, Syvile, jaen and Vbeda, and the Saracenes had no more in their possession but only the Kingdom of Granado, from whence at length they were utterly expulsed and driven out by Ferdinando the last king of the Tarracomans, (or Arragon) Grandfather by the Mother's side to Charles the fift late Emperor.  
In Africa a new Prophet vaunting himself to be one of the right line & race of Mahomet whose name was E●mahelis, a man both borne & brought up in the Mountains, about the year of our Lord 1000 brewed a new broil and set abroach certain quaint fashions about Religion. He expulsed out of their Kingdoms, the high Bishop of Cairoan (which City before we showed was not far of from Carthage, & was the head City in the main land of Africa) l also Abraem the king of Morocco: which done, he subdued both the Mauritanies, all Africa, all Numidia, and Lybia unto the borders of the Negroes and Egypt, constituting his royal and Pontifical Seat at Morocco. The King of Morocco, fleeing from Habdulmumen who pursued after him with part of Elmahelis Army, arrived and came to Oranum, a City situate upon the midland Sea in Mauritania Caesariensis. But the Citizens not receiving him, the poor wretched King being comfortless and without all hope of better fortune, 
A miserable king deposed from his kingdom, by desperation broke his own neck and his wives.  with his wife, who for want of better store road behind him (both on one horse) went up into the top of a very high mountain lying into the Sea and there dashing the Spurs into the horse sides, cast himself, his wife and horse down headlong from a Eraggie rock, and so all three died together at one instant, and were found in the Shore all bruised and dismembered. And Habdulmumen returning back to Morocco, found Elmahelis dead, and was creafed King and Bishop in his place. Whose posterity and Successors, that is to wit josippus his Son, Mansor his Nephieu and Machomet Enasirs, of whom we made mention before, his Nephieus son, enjoyed & possessed that Kingdom. But when the ten Sons after the death of Mahomet their father, contended and bickered among themselves for the Garland, the house of the Marines popped into the Kingdom of Fess, and the Habduluadean family invaded the Kingdom of Telensine, and displacing there the Tunetane Magistrate, created and made there a King. And all the other Kings & Princes of Africa renounced their homage and revolted from the Kings of Maroco: whereby the power of the Saracens decreased in Africa aswell as in other places and the name of their Empire utterly extinct.   

¶ The third Book.  
Wherein is expressed and plainly declared the eversion of the Saracenicall Empire and the original beginning, continuance & increase of the Turkish domination, till the first year of the reign of Ottomanne, from whom, lovius and diverse others both Greek and Latin Turcographers begin their Histories: also the first original of the Tartarians, Mamalukes, Assassins, and Sophians: Containing a true and perfect discourse of Turkish Affairs for three hundredth years space before Ottomanne, for pleasure and variety very delectable.  
But now must I proceed in a new kind of order, 
Saracenes were as the right children of Mahomet and Turks in comparison but Bastards.  and discourse upon matters most worthy to be remembered: for we have already so orderly & successively treated of Saracenicall affairs, that now we be come by order of History, to speak of those times, wherein (the ancient and true Saracene Empire decaying and as it were the lawful Stock and offspring of Mahomet excluded and dispossessed) Bastards and upstarts of an other line stepped in and usurped the principality, A people (I say) shuffling in for the best game, and bearing themselves, not (as the other) under a painled show and coulorable gloze of gay Religion and holiness, but planted themselves in a more firm and hard Empire, maintaining and amplifying the same by force of Arms and violence. Whose State differeth as much from the former Empire, as the hardness of Iron from the softness of Lead. For albeit the huygenes of the Saracenicall dominion were great and mighty, (insomuch that under the patched cloak and pretence of false doctrine and diabolical Religion, it overflowed and almost drowned the whole world) yet the violent rage thereof was by the valiant encountry of courageous Soldiers and Martial knights from time to time either bridled and repressed, or at lest, brought under such awe, that many times they were feign to keep bill under wing, and to be penned within narrower room than they were before. Yea many times, such flames of civil discord among themselves burst out, that the same being dispersed into sundry parts, & far dissevered from the fire where it was first forged about Babylon and Arabia, waxed in process of time so keyecold & frostbitten, the they were not able to wag & bestir themselves as they did before.  
And so being distracted and pulled from the whole Mass, and consequently made weaker, were either clean vanished and buried in the pit of Oblivion, or else with an other Fire in some other place newly kindled, were consumed and quite burnt even with their own flame: which thing happened unto this aforenamed Forge, till such time that new and stronger Smiths took that office in hand, & forged a harder metal upon the Anvil, to harden and strengthen the softness of this Lead, & thoroughly to bear out the dignity of the Shop. For although (as it evidently appeareth by the which hath been already declared in the two first Books) our Ancestors & Predecessors have continually warred with the Saracens well-nigh 400 years space, with divers fortune and doubtful victory, in so much that although their power even from their first beginning were very mighty and great, and Christendom all that time never quiet, but continually floated in civil discord, beside the often incursions of Barbarous Nations, the Emperors of Constantinople showing themselves (that while) no better than Meycockes & effeminate persons: yet did they oftentimes plague them with many great overthrows, and recovered out of their possessions sometime Syria, sometime Armenia, now a part of Persia and now some other Provinces: but yet always and still they kept in their possession all Europa, saving a piece of Spain only, Asia the less, Media, and the Kingdoms of Parthia Bythinia and Cappadocia with many other Realms and Kingdoms. But the power of the Turks encroaching and winning upon us now almost for the space of .600. years, they never could repress, neither hinder the course and proceeding of their Empire, neither yet expel and drive them out of such places as they had once gotten. Of such force is warlike discipline and so much differeth the fierceness of the Northern people from the tenderness and effeminacy of the Southrens. How, whereof and by what occasion, they broke out, we shall now declare.  
Basilius Porphyrogenitus being Emperor of Constantinople about the year of our Lord 1000 many tyrants wrestled for the Garland and divided among them, the Empire of Saracens, as before in the last Book was showed, whereof four always contending for the Supremacy, & keeping deadly wars one with another for the trial of their titles, there began great division & heart-burning between Mahomet Prince of Persians, Corasmiorians & of diverse other people on the one part, and the Caliph of Syria whose royal Seat & Metropolitan Sea was at Bagadet. 
Antioch taken.  In which wars, Mahomet being put to the worse and by the Babylonian (through help and aid of Sclerus and the Roman captives) vanquished, sent to the Turks for aid, whose help and furtherance at a pinch (as afore hath been specified, the Saracenes for certain years passed were accustomed in their Wars too use and join unto them, and the rather because they professed and embraced even at the first eruptions, swaded that they were begotten and did come of the wild Fauns.  
But the Turks and Tussagetes descending of their race and inhabiting the Northside of Mount Caucasus as before we have showed, differed much from them as well in life, as manners and Laws: being (notwithstanding) so like among themselves and so linked together in League one with an other, that they were taken and accounted for one People, and peradventure they were all one, and were so called and named (as profane persons) by the Armenians their Neighbours, from whom they received their Rites, and which were called Sagae (as much to say) as holy. For this word Teutazites (as in the second Book was showed) signifieth in their language Gentiles or a profane People. For these names are of many Writers so mingled and taken together, that the one seemeth to be their name, the other their Surname.  
Procopius saith, these People were nothing near to the other Huns, neither had any thing to do with them: but that they broidered upon the north parts of Persia, that is to wit Armenia. For Armenia was ever lightly subject to the Crown of Persia. Neither were they Wanderers from place to place, (as having no habitation saving there, where their Cat-tail stayed and grazed, as the other Huns or Scythians were): but had in their Possession and inhabited the best Plots and most fertile region that was among the Dounes and Mountains round about, and among the Huns, they only were white of complexion and colour, and not so ouglye nor so stern visaged, neither living so savagelye and beastly as the others did: but like true Subjects lived orderly in due obedience and humble subjection under one Prince, whom they accepted as their head and King: having also a well ordered Common wealth, with due execution and embracing of justice and other political Laws, both at home among themselves, and abroad with other foreign Nations bordering upon them, as the Greeques, Romans and divers other civil and well governed Nations did also.  
The chief City of all their Kingdom was called Gorga. The noblest sort and wealthyest persons among them, had continually seiourninge at their Houses as Jests, twenty or more of their familiar Friends, accordingly as their Substance and richesse extended, with whom, both wealth, authority and power was in common: as the same Procopius showeth, and as their institution and manner of living to this day witnesseth.  
Some there be, which refer the first original of the Turks, to those ten Tribes of Israel: which (as we read in josephus) were translated into Media. For proof and Testimony whereof, they allege the likeness and similitude of their manners and conversation.  
Some refer their pedigree to Gog and Magog, of whom there is mention made in the holy Scriptures: from whom, we rather be of opinion that the Tartarians yea and peradventure also the Goths be lineally descended. And some there be which do derive the offspring and Progeny of them: from the ancient troyans. Whose several opinions by way of Argument, either to confirm and allow or confute and disprove, is no part of our purpose and intent in this place, sythince our only meaning is not to reason upon probabilities, but to bring such certainly known truths, as are in the histories and Chronologies of ancient writers aswell of greeks and Thracians as of the Turks themselves and other Nations confining unto them, published and mentioned which is even so as before we have declared.  
Muchumet therefore desired aid of their Prince in his wars against the Caliph of Babylon, through whose help and valiance (sent unto him under the conduct of Tangrolipix Mucalet,) he encountered with Pisasire the Babylonian Caliph, and him with little labour and less danger discomfited, by reason that the Arabians were not able to abide the thick shot of the Turkish Arrows. Being from this war returned home with victory, he minded also to use the aid of the same Turks in his Wars against the Indians. At which season the Turks weary of that service, desired leave of Muchumet, not only to return home, but also that a garrison might be appointed to wafte them in safety over ●●e bridge that stood upon the River Araxes. Which request he took in such disdain and impatience that with frowning look he charged them from thenceforth not to urge him any more with that suit. The Turks had no other way in their return homeward, but must needs pass the said River Araxes, which is the limit and Border of the kingdom of Persia: over the which there was no other Bridge but only this, which was on both sides marvelous strongly guarded and fortified with Blocke-houses, Turrettes and Garrisons. The Turks dreading further danger privily shrank away & as closely as they could, departed into the desert of Carbonitis. For considering their number was not above three thousand men, they durst not adventure to fight and buckle with such a great multitude. Being in those deserts, they made many vagaries into the Saracenes Territories, and wasted their Country terribly. Whereat Muchumet marvelously stomacking and storming, sent an Army of 30000. men against them, committing the charge and conducting of the whole Army unto ten Tribunes of the noblest, stoutest and wisest in his train. They being come near to their enemies, would not adventure to enter into the desert, for fear they should be distressed for lack of water and victual, but encamped themselves even in the very entrance into the same desert.  
The Captain of the Turks, having intelligence by his Espials, of the Persians approach, called his Soldiers together, and making them privy to his devise, purposed suddenly to set upon them and unawares to surprise, both the Saracenes and Persians, while they were yet secure and mistrusted nothing. And speeding apace toward them by great journeys, within two days was come near unto them, The third night he set upon them being in their Tents careless and quiet, suspecting nothing less than any such matter: whom he put to flight even at the first onset. After this discomfiture of his enemies, he fell to spoil and ransack their Tents, where finding great store of Wagons, Horses, and Money, lived no longer by Robbery and Theft like a vagabond or fugitive (as afore) but from thence forth pitched his Tents and encamped himself abroad in the open plain. When the report of his victory and good fortune was blown abroad, there resorted unto him from all quarter's thereabout, all such Cutthroates and Villains as for their ungracious demerits feared punishment, with a great rout of Slaves and pylfering Rogues living of the spoil of others, insomuch that within a while his Army grew to the number of 50000. 
tyranny of Muchumet toward his own men.  men. Muchumet storming marvelously at this overthrow and discomfiture of his Host, caused the eyes of those ten whom he had appointed Captains to be pulled out, and threatened the rest of the Soldiers which fled out of the Battle, that so soon as he had vanquished his fees, he would clothe them all, in woman's apparel, and lead them as gazing stocks in Triumph before him. This done he himself in person marcheth against his Enemies. His men, who before had been vanquished of the Turks, considering the threats and shameful handling that was meant toward them, revolted from Muchumet and fled to Tangrolipix. Who now having his Army increased with such a warlike Crew of fresh Soldiers, with all his whole power together, came against Muchumet, by dint of mortal battle to try and finally determine the cause of controversy between them.  
Muchumet with his power of Saracenes, Persians, Arabians and Cabirians well appointed and armed, to the number of five hundredth thousand, and a hundredth Elephants with Towers on their backs, met his Enemy at a place called Aspacha: where between them was fought a cruel and bloody Battle and many slain on both parts. In this conflict, Muchumet, as he road unheedely from rank to rank, chéering his Soldiers and exhorting them to do valiantly, by means of the foltering and stumbling of his horse, fell down and broke his neck. He being once dead, his Army fell to a Parley and composition with the Turks, and so with one consent and will of all sides, Tangrolipix was proclaimed King of Persians. Who immediately opened a way and passage for his people into Persia. Of whom a great multitude went thither, and oppressing the Persians and Saracenes, 
What a Sultan signifieth.  perforce possessed all the Country of Persia. They also honoured Tangrolipix by the stile or title of Sultan, which is as much to say as a most Sovereign Emperor or King of Kings. He displaced the Inhabitants of the Country out of their Offices, Rooms and Dignities, and placed his own Nation and people in the same, and among them (impoverishing and utterly oppressing the Country borne persons) divided and parted the whole Region of Persia.  
Also Daber, Prince of Egypt, being in League and amity with the Romans, falsefyed his oath and promise which before he had condescended unto, and destroyed the Temple at Jerusalem wherein was the Sepulchre of our Saviour Chryst, and all the other holy places in the same. For Jerusalem at that time was under his obedience and dominion. And within a while after, he sent a Navy into the Isles called Cyclades to try some masteries there: which Navy was encountered and met withal, by the Duke of Samos, who took xii of them as Pryzes with all the men and Captains therein, and the rest to his high laud and glory dispersed and scattered.  
After this, Argyropylus being Emperor of Constantinople, the Arabians wan all such Cities as Nicephorus and john Zimisca had taken in Syria and slew the Garrysons that were left to keep them. And the Prince of Chalep with continual incursions infested Antioch and diverse other Cities and countries confining upon Syria, that were subject to the Roman Empire. By whom also the captain of Antioch (Constantine being yet alive) was shamefully vanquished, and hardly escaped with the loss of many of his men. In whose office and room the Emperor appointing another, went himself with a competent number of well furnished Soldiers to snaffle the pretenced outrage and insolent demeanour of the same Prince of Chalep.  
The Chalepians having understanding of his approach, sent Ambassadors with gifts and rewards to meet him on the way and to desire pardon for their former temerytie and undutiful behaviours towards him, offering again to submit themselves and from thenceforth to become his true Vassals and liege people. Which submission and peace, although many of his Lords and Captains exhorted him to accept, yet he hoping easily to subdue the Saracenes and thereby to purchase unto himself a great name and glory, would needs march on, and continued his voyage into Syria. And when he had strongly encamped himself near to Chalep, the Arabians being bold and nimble fellows, and naked, with good swift Horses under them, like Dimylaunces, planted themselves in every corner in Ambushes. So that if any of their enemies went out on foraging or to fetch water they suddenly broke out and either slew or took them prisoners. By reason whereof both the Soldiers and their Horses fainted for thirst and were not able to do any service.  
Thus they being better acquainted and enured with these incursions and skirmishes took heart a grace, accusing the Romans of Sloth and cowardice, and showing themselves in great plumpes, descending suddenly from the Hills with great shouts and cries, so terrified and dismayed the Roman Host, 
Emperor in great danger.  that they turned their backs & fled. The emperor himself being there in great danger of his life and forsaken of his Praetorian Soldiers which for fear shifted for themselves and left him alone, had fallen in the Lapse and been taken Prisoner, if one of his company had not set him upon his Horse and advised him to save himself by flight. The Saracenes supposing this their fléeinge to be done but for a policy and for the nonce pursued not the chase, but entered into the emperors Tents, where taking a few noble personages and spoiling his rich Pavilion wherein was great foison of Treasure and princely furniture, departed thence and retired back lading their Horses with as much as they could carry away.  
In their return back they overcame the country of Mesopotamia. And the Egyptian Fleet wasted the coast of Illyricum, but they could not go clear away. For the Greekish Fleet encountered with them and burned many of them, the rest which escaped by flight, by tempest were drowned in the Sicillian Sea. Also an other Navy of a thousand Sail or there about, being sent out of Aphrica, spoiled many Islands and places bordering upon the sea Coasts. But the Roman gallayes chaunceing upon them took certain, sunk many, and sent 500 of them prisoners to the Emperor. And George Maniaces, provost of all the Cities along the River Euphrates, lying at Samosata, conquered and razed a city called Edessa, where he finding an Epistle of our Saviour jesus Christ written with his own hand, he sent the same unto the Emperor. This City afterward in the Empire and reign of Michael Paphlagon was besieged by the Arabians, and had been won if Constantine captain of Antioch, and Brother to the Emperor had not succoured and relieved the poor defendants that were within it.  
After that the Prince of Egypt was dead, the Queen his wife being a Christian and her son concluded a truce with the Romans, to endure for thirty. years, and caused the Temple and other holy places at jerusalem to be restored and new re-edified. About this time two Brothers both Saracenes, iounctlie and with equal authority reigning in Sycilie, fell at discord and variance between themselves, whereupon the one of them desired aid and assistance of the Emperor. Who immediately sent George Maniaces a noble Counsaillour and expert Warrior with a tall company of Men to aid him.  
But before he could come into Sycile, the two Brothers were reconciled and made Friends and joining both their powers together to repulse, Maniaces from landing in the Islands, sent also for aid to Carthage. But when both the armies were clasped together in battle, the victory fell unto the Romans, who gave unto the Saracenes a notable overthrow and slew of them a great number. Which done, the General razed and destroyed xiii Cities: and from thence marching still forward, recovered and restored again all Sycile to the Roman Empire.  
But in the Orient, it was a fair hap, that the City of Edessa had not been surprised by the Saracenes. 
A policy of the Saracens to have taken the city Edessa▪  For twelve of the chief Princes or Nobles of them brought five hundredth camels to Edessa, every one laden with two Chests a piece, and in every Chest an armed soldier, pretending and saying that their coming was, to present the Emperor with certain rewards and gifts. Their intent was, if they might have been let in, the next night with their armed Soldiers in the Chests to have taken the City. But their subtle stratagem and crafty conveyance miss of hoped effect by this means.  
There was a certain Beggar, 
A Beggar saved the City.  an Armenian borne, which could well understand and speak the Arabian language. This poor Armenian begging the charitable alms of the Arabians which lodged abroad without the City, chanced to hear one of them in the Chests ask an other of his fellows where they were, and immediately departing from them went into the City, and discovered this treacherous train to the Provoste. Who by this means having ynckeling and intelligence thereof, left the Princes of the Arabians banqueting and making good cheer in the City, and with a convenient number of Citizens issued out of the Gates, and opening the Chests, killed all the armed men in the same. And coming back again into the City, killed also all the Princes and Captains of them, saving only one, whose two hands he chopped off, and curtayling his nose and ears, sent him away packing with a Flea in his ear, to carry news home of their good speed and adventure.  
On the other side, when the Caliph of Cairoan in Aphrica understood of the loss and destruction of his Armies, he went himself in person with a greater Army into Sycile. Against whom, Maniaces came with a main power, commanding the admiral of his Navy diligently to look to his charge and so narrowly to scour the Coasts and keep the Sea, that the vanquished Carthaginianss should by no means escape. And then both the Armies grapeled together in a terrible and most sharp conflict, wherein were slain so many of the Saracenes, that they could by no means be numbered. But their Prince escaping out of the Field, embarked himself with all speed possible in a Brigandine and returned home in safety.  
Now, Tangrolipix King of Persia having set all the affairs of his Kingdom in good stay and order, made War upon Pisasirye chief Governor of Babylon and overcame him in many battles and last of all flew him.  
And so the Babylonians being subdued and annexed to his dominions, he sent Cutlume his Nepheu with an Army against Carbese King of Arabia.  
Of whom Cutlume being overcome, desired by his Ambassadors of Stephan Regent of Media (which country is now called Baas Prachan) to give him leave with his people to pass through the borders of his Country and jurisdiction. Which request, Stephan did not only flatly deny, but also armed himself and went against him. Notwithstanding he left many of his men, and was himself taken Prisoner. And so Cutlume returning home to Tangrolipix, recompted unto him his success in the Median war, and highly extolled the fertility and fruitfulness of that region, affirming that the same was very easy to be won. But Tangrolipix being sore offended with him for his late discomfiture, went himself against the Arabians. Cutlume for fear fled away with his company, and taking a City of the Chorasmiorians named Pasar, revolted from the Sultan. But the Sultan winking at this matter and letting it slip for a while, held on his voyage with his whole Host against the Arabians, by whom he also was put to flight, and so coming home with more loss than gain, with the greatest part of his Host besieged Cutlume. But Cutlume reposing great trust and assurance in the natural situation and strength of the place, long time resisted him. In the mean season, Tangrolipix sent Asan his other Nephew surnamed Surdus with twenty M. well appointed Soldiers into Media. 
Turks go to wreck.  Who rushing with his invasive power into the Province, and joining Battle with the Romans was with his whole Host (excepting a very few) slain. The Sultan understanding thereof, and minding to win his honour again for so notable a loss and overthrow, sent one Alim Abramie with a hundredth thousand fight men into the same Province again. The Regent of the Country sent to the Emperor for aid, & thought it best for him not to fight with the Turks till Liparites, Provost of a part of Iberia were come with his Iberians to aid him. The Romans kept themselves within their forts & strong Holds, wherefore Alim, seeing that they minded not to try matter with him by force of battle, assaulted a small unwalled village called Arzen, where innumerable wealth merchants dwelled, supposing the same would have been got and surrendered unto him at the first brunt, & in a manner without resistance. But it happened not altogether according to his expectation. For the Townsmen stopped his ways and passages, with great Timber logs & threw darts and other weapons at them from the tops of their houses, and slew many of them. Alim after that he had given the assault unto it by the space of six continual days, & saw the stout hearts of the Citizens in defending, and that he could not conveniently lie any longer at the Siege thereof, threw wild fire into the houses, which flamed, and in every place so raged that the Inhabitants to lave their lives, fled. And by this means the Turks wan the village, wherein they found much Gold and store of richesse which the fire had not consumed. From thence they discamped & sped them toward the Roman Army, unto whose aid Liparites was now come with the power of Iberia.  
Both the Battles ioygning together a little before night, the Turks were discomfited and put to flight, whom the Romans chased and pursued till far in the night. Albeit in this conflict Liparites (who led the one wing of the Battle) was taken Prisoner and brought to the Sultan. For whose ransom and redelivery the Emperor sent a great mass of money and other rewards to the Sultan, desiring him also that a peace and league might be concluded between them.  
But the Sultan sending back all the money and Gifts, frankly delivered Liparites without any panie: advising him after that time, never to bear armour against the Turks. And beside this, he sent an Ambassador unto the Emperor, one of the worthiest in degree in all his Court called Seriphes: which Dignity is so high among them, that after the death of the Caliph, the Seriphes succeedeth in his room. For the Turks even at the first, embracing the doctrine of Mahomet, reverenced and had in great honour and estimation their Caliphas as Priests and bishops of their Law: notwithstanding they debarred them from wearing the Imperial Crown or intermeddling with any juridical power in profane matters within their Empire. This stately Ambassador, coming to Constantinople was brought before the Emperor, before whom he proudly showed his Commission, which was, to demand a Tribute to be paid by the Emperor to the Sultan. But he was fain to return without speeding his errand. Wherefore the Sultan taking Pepper in the Nose, made War and went himself against the Romans. And when he was come as far as Comium a City of Iberia, because the Inhabitants of the Country had included themselves and their goods with all things necessary in Holds and Castles (whereof the number at that time in Iberia was great) and hearing that the Romans mustered and assembled a great power about Caesarea, to come against him, he retired without doing any notable exploit, worthy of remembrance back again into Media: where likewise finding all places walled and Bulwarked, his full determination was to win his purpose by Siege.  
And first of all he attempted the winning of Mantzichierte, a City standing in the plain champion Country, vaumured and strengthened with three strong Walls, having within it many Fountains and lively springs of Water, which City by the foresight and provision of the Townsmen was very well victualled. And encamping himself near to the Walls, gave an assault unto the same xxx continual days without any ceasing, with all kind of engines and Warlike Instruments. But in the end, perceiving his attempt to be in vain, and having no hope of better success, raised his Siege and departed with the loss of many of his people. Then he pursued his Nephew Abramie, who was now confederate and took part with his cozen Cutlume, and him in Battle near to the City of Pasaris overcame and slew.  
But Cutlume with sire thousand in his company, (among whom was Melech the Son of Abramie, saved himself by flight, and by his Ambassadors sued to the Emperor Constantine Ducas to be received into his favour and protection, and that a League might be confirmed between them: staying for an answer in Persarmenia at the City Charse. But because the Sultan following at his heels, was coming with a power into Iberia, Cutlume fled into Arabia Foelix. The Sultan spoiled and wasted all as he went in Iberia: but hearing that Michael was coming with an Army against him, and thinking it much dishonourable for him to deal with the emperors Servant, retired again into his own Territories, leaving behind him, one of his captains named Samuch, a man of base parentage and low hyrthe, but in Martial affairs a right excellent captain. This Samuch remaining still hehind, with 3000. men, coasted and strayed about the plain Country of the greater Armenia, and with many sudden incursions infested the frontiers of the Roman Empire.  
After this Diogenes being Roman Emperor the Sultan again with a great power entered within the precinct and limits of the Roman dominions: But the Emperor coming with an Army against him, hes retired back: and dividing his Host into two parts, sent the one into South Asia & the other into north Asia, which spoiled all as they went, and suddenly surprising the city of new Cesaria: sacked it and being full laden with booty and pray departed thence. But the Emperor when he heard of it, taking with him a Band of lustier and nimbeler Soldiers, coasting the nearest way over hill and dale, through thick and thin, to get between his enemies and home, so vigoriouslye and suddenly set upon them and therewitall so teryfied and dismayed them that they trusting to their Legs, lea●t all their prey and carriage behind them. Notwithstanding their was no great number of them slain, because the Romans (being with their long iournaie weared) were not able to follow the chase far, but they rescued and delivered many Prisoners which before had been taken. From thence making his voyage into Syria, where he sent out part of his Army to Melitena, he brought home from Chalep great Booties both of men and beasts, and took Hierapolis in Syria by surrendry.  
After this, the Emperor (lying at Hierapolis) hearing news that the Turks had vanquished part of the Roman Armies, sped himself thitherward in all haste to succour his distressed Soldiers and afflicted Subjects. The captain of Chalep, hearing of this overthrow given to the Romans, renounced his allegiance and fled with all his train to the Turks. And when the Enemies had environed the Roman Camp round about, the emperor without giving any knowledge to them that he would fight, brought aught his Army and without the sound either of Trumpet or other manifest token, gave the charge and onset upon them, and put them to flight ere they had warning or time to resist. Then he built and erected a Castle at Hierapolis, and after he had taken many other Towns, he came to Alexandria a city of Cilicia. And taking order for the wintering of his Host, where they should not be pinched with famine nor scarcity of victual returned home to Constantinople.  
In the beginning of the next spring, the Emperor making an other voyage to Caesarea, was certainly informed that a great company of Turks foraged and spoiled that province: whom after he had either slain or taken, he took his journey to Euphrates: and there leaving part of his Army, under the conduct of Philaretus, he himself went northward. The Turks putting Philaretus his soldiers in great fear & jeopardy, got all their trinketes and carriage, and marching forward into Cappadocia (wasting and making havoc as they went) came to Iconium. a City at that time most flourishing and renowned.  
The Emperor having intelligence hereof at Sebastia, sped him thitherward. But hearing by the way, that his Enemies had destroyed and razed the City, and upon the brute and report of his coming and approach to be departed, he delivered part of the Roman Legions to Cathagurio captain of Antioch, commanding him forthwith to repair to Mopsihestia, where the Turks should pass, and there to set upon them. But ere they could come so far, the Turks were bid to a cold breakfast by the Armenians in the plain of Tharsus, and distrussed in a manner of all they had: & hearing further that the Romans were planted at Mopsihestia to receive them, if they passed that way, fled by night.  
After this, in the beginning of the Spring, the Turks ●ftsoones invading and infesting the Roman Provinces, were vaunted and overcome by Mychael Comnenus, General and Chieftain for the Emperor: and within awhile after, the same Michael being sent by the Emperor into Syria with a less power, for certain spite and heart-burning borne against him, was vanquished and taken of the Turks. After this the Emperor in person with a great power went into the oriental Provinces, and entamping at a place called Criapega, in a battle which he fought with his Enemies (where the Scythians that were in his Army forsook him and fled to the Turks) most manfully fighting was taken and brought before the Sultan whose name then was Axan, 
Emperor taken Prisoner.  for Tangrolipix was now dead. This Axan as he was a most precise man and of great moderation and prudence, when he certainly knew that it was the Emperor (for he would not believe it was he, till the Ambassadors, (unto him before sent,) affirmed it was he indeed, and certain Greek Captains which he had in Prison (being brought before him) fell down and prostrated themselves at his feet) courteously lifted him up from the ground, lying prostrate and knéelynge at his Feet, as the custom and manner is for them that acknowledge themselves vanquished: 
Great cur●esse of the Sultan.  and so lovingly embraced him as though he had been his own Brother, speaking unto him these comfortable words following.  
I would not wish you (most noble Emperor) to lament and sorrow for this your present chance and misery. For such is the state and course of this world, that the fortune of War sometime alotteth victory to one, sometime to an other, humbleth one and advanceth an other. Your Majesty hath most puissauntlye quit yourself in many notable Battles, your valiant courage and invincible prowess in warlike affairs shall ever be renowned and spoken of, if you now show yourself to be no less patient and stout in adversity than you were prudent and wise in prosperity. Albeit at my hands you shall not be used as a Captive and prisoner, but like an Emperor and as is most sitting for one of your estate.  
And immediately he appointed unto him a most Princely and rich Tabernacle, with servants to await and give attendance upon his Person, and all other furniture meet for an Emperor. And caused him to sit at his own table next unto himself, & for his sake set at liberty as many Prisoners as he would demand. Which Princely courtesy argued that he had regard to human mutability and fickle state, considering the same mishap might as well have happened unto him. Thus these two mighty Princes keeping company familiarly together for certain days, & talking most friendly one to an other, at last established and concluded a perpetual and infringible peace for ever to continued between them, and upon promise of affinity by Marriage between their Children to be solemnized, he frankly delivered and freely dismissed Diogenes with a great train of honourable Personages awaighting upon him, and gave unto him a rich suit of Princely Apparel.  
But after that Diogenes was at Constantinople murdered by his own People, Axan the Sultan hearing thereof and greatly lamenting his death, for revenge thereof sent out his Armies, not now to pylfer and rob as before, but to subdue and utterly to reduce the same under his subjection. Against whom, Michael Ducas the Emperor, sent Isaac Comnenus with a great power, who was overcome and taken of the Turks and paid a great Sum of Money for his Ransom. After this, Cutlume Nepheiu to Tangrolipix (as before hath been declared) levying a great Power some the City of Jerusalem and some with much labour and effusion of blood regained other Cities and there constituted a Christian Kingdom. Now, this while, the Emperor of Constantinople was in league with the other Sultan of the Turks, was Lord of the Provinces confining and bordering next unto Constantinople: for we showed before, how that those Provinces were allotted and given to Cutlume, the which his Heirs after him enjoyed, and Tangrolipix his Successors had the regiment over the Persians and Babylonians: and in Egypt there were yet remaining the remnants and residue of the Saracenes.  
But after the death of Cutlume and his Son (Sultanes of the Occident and Lords of all Cappadocia) one Tanismanye succeeded. Of these Christian Captains when they were arrived in safety in Asia, the Turks gave a great overthrow unto Raymund, watching him at a vantage, when he was entered into the Country about Nice unadvisedly without search, and him compelled to fly unto a poor desert town called Exorgum: where after he had been a certain space besieged & thoroughly wearied, with a sew others yielded to his enemies. The rest which would not yield and submit themselves, after long Siege, were partly consumed in skirmishes and partly perished by famine: and such as were taken alive, were slain every one. So many as were lest, departed first to Nicomedia, and from thence removed to Nice a City of Bythinia. Which City while they fiercely assaulted, Tanismany or Solyman with. lx. thousand Turks, issued out and bend his full force against that part of the Christian Camp which was led by the bishop of Podie: but the French, stood so stoutly at the receipt, that the enemies were easily repulsed, and so at length the City of Nice was taken. After this there was a sharp bickering and conflict with Solyman, at the fourth Tent pitch from Nicaea. For he had gathered together the power of the whole Orient, and had procured as much aid from else where as he could. Then ●conium a City standing by Mount Taurus, the Seat Royal and Metropolitan City of Solyman, (which at this day is called Cogni) and the Palace of the Princes of Phrygia (now called Caramania) and Heraclea were won. afterward Baldwyne dividing his Army into two parts turned into Cilicia, and took Tharsus, Edessa and Manussa: the greater Host winning Armenia, delivered the regiment and rule thereof to Palmurus an Armenian.  
After this good success, they took Cappadocia, Caesarea Sororgia and Sura in the Straicts of Mount Taurus. When they had passed the Mount Taurus, the Turks advanced themselves in a fair plain, but they were easily and with little ado discomfited and put to flight by the Latins, and from thence marched strait to Antioch, a noble and strong City in Phoenicia, by which the river Orontes runneth (for there is another of the same name in Pamphilia, near unto Seleucia) and took the same by surrendre, by reason that the Turks were afore vanquished in battle and yielded themselves. In which battle were slain of the Tu●ks a hundredth thousand, and xv. M. camels taken.  
During these broils, the Venetian Fleet being CC. sail and sent to aid the Latynes, wan a City in the Coast of jonia called Smyrna: and the Latins after they had taken Antioch, wan Rugia and Albaria and there Wintered.  
In the Spring following, departing thence, they laid Siege first to Tortosa and Tripoli. The king of Tripoli submitting himself was received under Protection, but Tortosa was very stoutly defended by the Inhabitants. Wherefore raising their Siege and passing over the Rivers of Zebul, Zabar and Brai, they came by privy ways and unhaunted places before Berytus a City standing upon the Sea coast, and from Berytus to Sagitta, and from thence the tenth day after, they came to Caesarea, afterward to Rama and so at length they pitched their Tents and planted their Siege before the noble City of Jerusalem, which with most cruel bloodshedding and incredible labour was won, about the year of our redemption one thousand and one hundredth, & Godfroye crowned King thereof. The streets in this assault stood full of congealed blood the thickness of a foot. But the Turks & Egyptians levying a fresh power, renewed war. Against whom, Godfrey with his Christian army marched, and finding them encamped at Ascalon, gave them battle and slew of them 100000 (or as some say) 50000 and discomfited all the rest. But before that Jerusalem was taken, the Venetian Navy coasting along Lycia,, Pamphylia, Cilicia and Syria, lay at Road in the Haven of joppa, being then in the French Hosts subjection, because they might help the Christians with victual and necessary provision: & weighing up their Ankers they departed thence, & took Ascalon, Porphyria (a City near to Ptolemaic 〈◊〉 Tyberias, Cities standing upon the Sea side.  
After the death of Godfroye who departed this life within the City of Jerusalem, his Brother Baldwine was made King, and the rest of the Princes returned home. He through the aid and help of the Venetians, Genoese and Boemund King of Antioch took Ptolemais, with Sydon and Bery●us cities of Phaenicla. But when that Boemund was dead and tancred his Brother sucéeded in the Crown and Kingdom of Antioch, (the Turks & Egyptians again invading the frontiers of the jerosolymitane Kingdom, Balwine sent for tancred so come and aid him, and then gave unto them battle, but the Turks discomfited him and all his Host, whereupon with great loss of his men he retired to Jerusalem and tancred to Antioch: and the Turks got into their hands the possession of Mount Sinai. Within a while after Baldwine died, and in his stead an other Baldwine surnamed Burgensis was made King.  
Afterwards in the reign and Empire of Alexius Emperor of Constantinople, 
another voyage to jerusalem.  because Baldwine the second, sent for aid to the Latins to withstand the malignant enterprises of the Turkish Rakehelles, an other voyage was made into Syria. Therein went William duke of Aquitanye, Hugh the Great, Brother to Philip the French King, Stephen Earl of Chartiers (lately returned home from the other expedition before) Stephen earl of Burgundy, and Tholouse. The Venetians also sent thither a great navy. The Christian Champions and Latin Captains with their Host after many afflictions, labours and sharp storms sustained by the miscreaunts, insomuch that they were almost dispersed and scattered, came at length to Jerusalem. But Baldwine inconsiderately fighting with the Turks before the coming of the other christians, was taken prisoner, his Host discomfited, and he himself brought to Carras, and after a time, paying his Ransom was delivered and set at liberty.  
But the Venetian navy encountering with 700. Sail that belonged to the Caliph of Egypt, which lay at the Siege of joppa, overcame them & took the City of tire. During the time that they lay before that City giving sundry Batteries and assaults there unto, there was a Dove seen, flying over their Camp and Tents (for the Venetians had set part of their men on shore) carrying the Letters of the King of Damascus tied about her neck, the contents whereof was, that he with a great power, would shortly come to rescue them. The Soldiers seeing her flying over their heads towards the City, 
policy.  at one instant all together, shouted and cried, which shout so divided & cut the Air, that the Dove fell down to the ground. Then the Venetian Captains perusing and reading over the letters, forged others, like unto them in proportion and writing, but clean contrary in effect and meaning, the tenor whereof was, that the besieged parties should shifted for their safeguard as well as they could, and only trust to themselves: for of him the could have no aid nor rescue. Whereupon they immediately surrendered themselves and their City to the Christians.  
At this time, 
The first beginning of the Assassins.  there reigned among the Saracenes or Turks a certain kind or Sect of men called Assassins: which kill whomsoever they lifted (like thieves & Murderers) wrought much skath and harm to the Christians in Syria. And hereof it came, that afterward among the Italians, all thieves & murderers were called by the name Assassins. Which Sect first sprung up (as it is reported) in this sort. One Aloadine a Saracenist reigned in that part of Persia, which lieth next the River Indus, not far from the borders of the Province of Arriana, under the Mount Caucasus (which Region at this day is called Mulehet. In the which in times past the Asacenes inhabited, of whom Arrianus speaketh in his history of the Acts of Alexander the great, placing them between the rivers of Cophe and Indus: which Cophe (as I think) is that, which is called of josephus in his judaical Antiquities Cuthus, & that into this Region those ten Tribes of Israel were translated.  
This Aloadine having an intent to inveigle and persuade his people, that he was able to bring all such to the fruition of a blessed life, as observed and kept his Laws and commandments, had trimmed and planted in a right pleasant valley between two very high Hills most goodly Gardaines of solace, replennished with all kind of fragrant Flowers and beautiful Trees yielding smell & fruit most delectable, which gardains, were most finely contrived, and on every side environed with notable gorgeous buildings, garnished with Gold and other colours, and stored with precious furniture and rich household stuff of value inestimable. In divers places of the same, were Fountains and rivers of Milk, Honey, Wine and sweet waters. Within the same, also were fine Damoselles and beautiful Pucelles, which with Melodies, Songs, musical Instruments, mincing dances, and all other allurements of feminine flattereys, delighted and fed the tender ears of such as were brought thither. Moreover there were other she Servants and housewifelie Trulls, which being kept close within doors, dressed all things that could be devised or thought necessary aswell for meat & drink as for the pleasure and delectation of the Guests and Strangers therein. All the place without was most curiously strengthened both by nature and art. When this delightful Gardaine of pleasure was fully ended and made perfect, Aloadine preached and professed himself to those downish people to be the fellow and Mate of Mahomet, and that he had power given unto him, to dispose and bestow the benefit and fruition of Paradise and blessed life upon such as should be to his laws and hests obeissant. And of them he chose out certain young Stripelinges about the age of twelve or fourteen years, such as seemed to be of the best towardness and disposition for Wars in time to come, whom he brought up in his Hall or Court.  
And because they should with the more willing minds obey his commandments and stir at his beck, his fashion was with some confectioned Potion to bring them into a dead sleep: which done, his custom was then to transport & carry them into the place or Gardaine: where being awaked, they solaced themselves and had the fruition of all kind of pleasures for two or three days space, and then again being with the same drinks brought on sleep, (as before they had been) were carried out, themselves knowing nothing at all thereof. And by this means it came to pass, that afterward they refused neither perils nor Dangers to fulfil his mind and commaundemetes, but were willing and ready to slay and kill whom he would command, yea though they dwelled in places distant far of. And the number of them which he had there, were about lx. thousand. Whereby his power and his Successors after him (called Sexmountes) grew and in such sort increased, that he instituted the same order also in Syria, and had a Lieutenant under him at Damascus. For there was of them as it were a certain order of Knights, whereof the chief Precedent and Master was called Sexmount, and had diverse officers of the order of this knighthood in sundry other places. The Castle wherein these Gardaines were, was named Tigad.  
These Cutthroat Soldiers, with murders and robberies, made every place in Asia dangerous and unpassable to the Christians. But this Castle being afterward assaulted and besieged full seven years space by the Tartarians, was in th'end by them taken, and they within utterly destroyed. This is the History of them, whom some by mistaking do call Essenes', and some Arsacidas, as we have found in the most credible and approved Authors.  
After the death of Tanismanye, the Occidental Turkish Empire began to be divided. For one Muchumet succeeded Tanismanye, between whom and Masute Precedent of Iconium, was kindled certain displeasure and privy heartburning. But the Emperor john Comnenus entered into league and linked in amity with Masute, whose both powers joined together went against Muchumet. At length for spite borne to the Emperor there was means found for a reconciliation and agreement between the two Turkish Potentates, Masute, and Muchumet: which being brought about and concluded, Masute abjured his former league and revolted from the Emperor. Notwithstanding, the Emperor razed two noble Cities of Pontus in the Turks possession, the one called Castamon and the other Gangre. But within a while after, Muchumet recovered them again, and subdued Iberia also, with sundry places in Mesopotamia. And Masute wan Iconium with other places in Syria. But making an enroade into Thracia, he was talked withal to his cost, and put to flight by Manuel Comnenus. The Emperor glad above measure for this victory, laid Siege to Iconium, but the Turks set their Stales so covertly, and broke out of an Ambush so suddenly, that they discomfited his Host, and he himself escaped very hardly.  
The Christians in Jerusalem being sore distressed by the miscreants, 
A third voyage toward the holy land.  there was a third Voyage and expedition made thither, whereof was chief Captain and leader Conrade Duke of Franconia, who with a great Army of Germans, Italians and Frenchmen relieved them: and meeting with the Turks (with whom the Greeques had also conspired) near by the river Meander gave unto them Battle. In which terrible conflict there was a marvelous great slaughter of Turks.  
After that Masute was dead, his three Sons parted the Kingdom among them, and afterward jagupasanes and the Sultan of Iconium fell together by the ears for their moyties. In th'end jagupasanes got the victory, and the Sultan fled for secure to the Emperor, who carried him to Constantinople with him, for a Triumph. And here by the way, I may not omit to declare a pretty jest of a Sarracene Icarus. 
One that: took upon him to fly in the air.  This merry fellow, attending upon the Sultan, and bearing the countenance of a juggeler, at a certain solemn justs or Tyltrunning, voluntarily went up to the top of a Turret standing in the Tyltyeard at Constantinople, under the which Turret was the Tilt itself, where the Horse● took their races and courses, and above, were those four courageous and praunsing gilt Coursers which now stand on the top of the Church of S. Mark in Venice, directly opposite, & standing full but one against another. He standing on the top of this Turret craked and bragged that he would fly in the Air the space of a furlong. And having on, a large white garment, down to his foot, full of plaites, knotted and gathered round to hover in the air withal, he stood fluttering for wind with his hands in steed of wings, and having (as he thought) sored long enough, at length committed his body to the courtesy of the wind, but falling down headlong on the ground, he bruised and broke all his bones with the fall, and there like a vain Coxcomb yielded up the Ghost and died.  
Now, Manuel to th'intent he would be reputed and thought of the Sultan to be a Prince liberal, magnificent and mighty, dismissed and sent him away not without honourable rewards, beside a huge Mass of money and other most precious Wares: upon condition, that he should redeliver and restore unto him the City of Sebastia, with the Suburbs of the same. But when the Sultan was returned to Iconium with his money he returned to his former vomit, 
What trust is in the promise of a Turk.  spoiling Sebastia and all the places near about it, and took upon him the chief Sovereignty and pre-eminence of all that Territory: and driving his other brother Dadune out of the Country, and getting by force the City of Caesarea, he went about also to supplant and overthrow jagupasan.  
Dadune got into his possession the Country of Amasia being without any possessor: but it was not long ere he was again expulsed and driven out by Clizastlan the Sultan, who bore all the sway in Cappadocia. 
A good Child.  This Clizastlan albeit he called the Empeperour, father: yet he ever encroached upon his Provinces and spoiled his Countries. Whereupon, within a while after, a new garboil and hatred was kindled between them: for that the Sultan likewise charged the Emperor with breach of promise, in sundry Articles and covenants before condescended unto.  
The Emperor purposing with all his might to be avenged of his Adversaries, and already conceiving in his mind the destruction and utter subversion of the Turkish Nation, levied together all his old beaten Soldiers, mustered new Legions, and procured all the foreign aid that he could from any place, made a firm League with Baldwine King of Jerusalem, and retained in wages the Scythians confining upon the river Ister, and thus having a mighty and populous Army, with all things in good order and readiness decently purueighed, (after he had made his prayers to Almighty God the giver of all victory for his divine assistance) marched forth in good order against them: His journey lay through Phrigia and Laodicaea Chonas S. Archangel, Lampis and Celenas' where the head Spring of the great Meander is, into which the River rashly then advisedly, chopped hardily into the same streicts having his battle appointed in this order following. The Vanguard was led by the two Suns of Angelus Constantine whose names were john and Andronicus, with Macroduca Constantine and Lapardus Andronicus, with their Ensigns and Bands, and was marshaled in Lunare ranks or Mooned array. The right wing● was led by Baldwine King of Jerusalem, and the left by Maurozomes Theodorus. After them followed the Drudges, Skullions, Woodcarters, Cartes and all the other baggage and Trinketrie of the Host. After them came the Emperor himself with the main Battle, where in was a valiant Crew of chosen fellows. The rearward was conducted by Andronicus Contostephanus.  
assoon as they were entered within the Straitss, where there was no starting holes nor yet elbowroome for the Host, and the Bands of Angelus Macroduca, and Lapard ordering themselves into a three square battle, (small before and thick behind like unto a wedge) gave the charge upon the barbarous Turks and by fine force drove them back from the Hills and higher places where they fought, into the Mountains, and so perforce, 
A lamentable slaughter of Christians by negligence.  made for themselves a through passage without any hurt or danger. But the residue of the Legions, followed after them nothing courageously: neither did they set their Archers in the flanks of their Battle to gall and keep of the Turkish force as they should have done, neither held they their Targetts close together over their heads like a vault, to bear of their shot and blows. Wherefore the Turks in thick plumps and with great violence broke out on every side upon them from the higher places into the lower ground and from the banks where before they sought, into the plain, and boldly encroached, still more and more upon the Romans till they had pierced and broken their array. And first put●inge Baldwine his wing to flight, wounded and flew many. Which when Baldwine perceived, with an intent to rescue and aid his men in that distress, taking with him a picked Troop of expert Horsemen, rushed in among the thickest of his Enemies. Of whom he was so beset and on every side circumvented that he himself was there slain, and all his men most valiantly fighting, likewise there died. This good success set the Turks on such a glorious hoy, that they stopped all the ways where the Romans should pass, meaning that day so to plague the Christians, that they should never after he able to attempt the like enterprise against them: for now being enclosed in those perilous straits, and one hindering an other, they were not able to endamage nor hurt their Enemies by any kind of means, but rather hindered and disturbed one an other, and were cause of one an others slaughter and lamentable destruction. So extremely cooped in and pounded were they, that they neither could have any help of the Emperor neither yet of the rearward, neither could they go back or decline on any side, because the Cartes and carriage that were placed in the middle like a Bulwark or Rampire, letted them. Their Horses and men were killed like Sheep, and with Turk's Falchion's gored and foined through. The Vallayes lay full of dead Corpse's, the ways stenched with grisly sights of slain persons, the Downs covered over with dismembered bodies, the waters of the Rivers were coloured and ran with blood of Men and Beasts mingled together: and to be short, such lachrimable slaughter was in this place made upon the poor Christians, that the woefulness thereof cannot with Pen accordingly be expressed.  
And beside all other outrages and unspeakable calamities, the Turks pitched the head of Andronicus Bataza the emperors Nephew (which had levied an Army out of Paphlagonia and Heraclea Pontica and was sent against the Amasene Turks in Amasia) upon a Spear point, and carried it before them for a mockage in derision. Which heavy spectacle and dangerous plight so vexed and inwardly grieved Manuel, that his mind was wonderfully perplexed, insomuch that he was even at his wits end and witted not what to do nor which way to turn him.  
But the Roman Legions in the Vanguard, (as before was declared) having passed those pikes & deadly traps held themselves close together and for their safeguard sensed in their Camp, upon the top of a little Hill very convenient and commodious (as the time than fell out) for their purpose. The Turks with might and main strived to overrun and bear down the emperors battle, because it they might once thoroughly disperse and subdue the greatest and strongest part of the Army, they thought the residue would easily and with small ado be vanquished, like as a Serpent when the head is bruised and crushed to powder, all the other parts of the body (which before by themselves moved, being clean cut of) do straightways die. The Emperor fought valiantly that day and oftentimes assailed the Turks fiercely to drive them out of the Staightes and to open the way for his men to pass through, but perceiving the power and force of the Turks (which fought from the higher ground) still to increase, and making his full account, that whether he tarried or went forward, there was none other way for him and his company but present death, he exhorted his men first of all to repose all their hope in Almighty, God and next in their weapons and hands, and that they should either save their lives by hardy blows and valiant deeds or else by honest and glorious death win to themselves perpetual fame and renown: for he plainly told them that he saw none other way for than to escape clear and harmless, but by such a famous adventure. And the God would not utterly forsake nor leave succourless them that bear armour and fight in the quarrel of his holy Catholic Religion, for the advancement of his glorious name, against the impious contemners and blasphemers of all religion, godliness, virtue and honesty, so that they would prostrate themselves before him and with devout minds (craving his divine assistance) valiantly use the courage and power which his divine Majesty gave, & inspired into their stomachs. And although their chance were then to be slain, yet should they (having a most just cause and quarrel) for this their short and transitory life, gain and win a double life: the one, everlasting and most blessed in the heavenly kingdom, promised and prepared by our Lord and Saviour Christ for all such true Christians as sincerely worship and unfeignedly believe on his name, but namely and specially for such as spend their blood and life for the love of his holy word and setting forth of his glory. And the other is, a perpetual fame and a worthy memorial in this world among all posterity, which would most assuredly for ever extol & celebrated this their prowess and constancy. But such as threw away their weapons, should for ever be ill reported of and reviled in the mouths and speeches of all men, as fugitives, forsakers, & Traitors, of their Liege Emperor & as villains unthankful & unmindful of God his benefits, and which is more, should by God his own mouth be accursed and adjudged to endless pains & sempiternal tortures. Wherefore he advised them to pluck up their hearts, and by his example, every one to make for himself a way & passage with his sword. When he had finished these his speeches with those few that he had left, be made straight into the midst of his enemies, and after many wounds given and taken on either side, 
valiantness of the Emperor.  breaking through the Turks array, and being so slashed and hewn in all his body that thirty Arrows or the rabout, stack fast in his Target, and not able to take up his own Bassenet or headpiece that was strooken of, yet (maugre their heads) he escaped and went through the thickest crowd of them. The other Legions were on every side slain and brought to their bane, and trodden down one of another. Such as escaped alive and were passed these perilous Streictes in safety, were nevertheless slain and quelled by their enemies in the other vallay, beyond. For the passage in that place was divided into vij deep vallayes near one to another: and being at the first entrance somewhat broad and roumye, was (the further a man went in) streicter and narrower. All which places the Turks had fortified & planted with their Ambushmentes and garrisons. Moreover, there suddenly arose such a terrible gale of blusterous and tempestuous winds, which tossed & raised up such abundance of Sand (whereof those places are full) that both the Armies most fiercely clasping together, bickered in the dark, as though it had been at midnight, and killed all such as came in their reach without any respect whether they were friends or foes. And in the same place, (were they Turks or Romans, horses or other cattle) it skilled not, for they died in heaps together one with another. And the valley where this conflict was, seemed to be nothing else but a common & a large Sepulchre or burial place for them all.  
But yet at this time, there died more of the Romans then of the Turks, & specially of the nobler sort & such as were the emperors near Cousins & kinsmen. And many being there left half alive, lay so buried & covered over with heaps of dead Carcases the they were not able by any means by struggling to get themselves out: neither was there any at hand to help them, for every one had enough ado to labour & sweat for his own life and saluetie. In this ugly sort, they long languishing in that kind of horrible & loathsome torment, were in th'end enforced there to give up the Ghost by a death most stinking, loathsome and lamentable. The Emperor himself panting and out of breath, was got all alone under a wild Pear tree to take air & recover his faint powers, having with him neither Page, Henxman, yeoman of his Guard nor keeper. Whom a poor common Soldier or horseman of his own troop (being likewise thither escaped out of the battle) finding in such miserable plight, breathless and comfortless, dutifully pitied and bewailed: and offering in that his calamity, 
A friend at need.  to minister unto his Majesty the best service that he was able, reached him up his Helmet & buckled on his other Armour that lay here and there dangling about him. Which while he was in doing, a certain Turk ran hastily unto him, & seeing no man there to defend nor rescue him, took the Emperors horse by the bridle, meaning likewise to have carried away the Emperor himself as prisoner. Whom the Emperor with a piece of his broken Spear that he had yet left, so blessed and humbasted about the pate, that he laid him there on the ground to sleep. Then ran the other Turks fiercely upon him, to have taken him alive. Which he seeing, took the same horseman's Spear of whom before we spoke, and with the same run one of his enemies clean through: while the said Soldier with his naked sword, dubbed another of them shorter by the head, and so repulsed & kept them of, at the sword point, till ten other of the Roman soldiers came running to assist them. Then was he very desirous to have joined himself to the other Legions, and most courageously gave the adventure through his enemies: but the heaps aswell of dead Carcases as of Turks encountering with him in every corner as he went, much hindered and prejudiced his pretence. Horse in such a pace as he was able. Him had fifty Turks espied, and on each side enclosed to have taken, but he no more stirred nor amended his pace for them, then if no man at all had pursued him. When they were clustered about him, he drew his sword, and sliced one of them so clean in the middle, from the head down to his back, together with the Saddle of the Horse also, that the residue for fear to be served with the same sauce kept aloof and durst not meddle. 
Friderick drowned.  And after that this Frederick was drowned in a river, the Germans returned home again.  
About this time there sprung up great discord and sedition among the Turks. For Clizastlan the mighty Sultan of Iconium, when he died, left four Sons behind him, Masute, Coppatine, Rucratine and Chaichosroes. Unto Masute he bequeathed the principality of Amasia, Ancira, Dorylaeum and certain other cities of Pontus. Unto Coppatine, he gave Melitene, Caesarea and the Colony now called Taxara. Unto Rucratine, he allotted Amisa, Docea and the other Cities upon the sea Coasts. Chaichosroes possessed Iconium, the regal seat of the Sultan's, and with it Lycaonia and Pamphylia and all as far as Cottyanium. Coppatine being dead, Rucratine and Masute fell together by the ears and strove for his signory and inheritance. But Rucratine for that he was a witty and skilful man in martial affairs, got the victory and wiped Masute his nose clean from all the principality of Coppatine their late Brother. And being now all in his jollity and ruff for this his good success & victory, & having a months mind to catch into his hands Iconium also, denounced open war and sent his deffaunce unto his Brother Chaichosroes whose Mother was a Christian, unless he would resign his Crown & give place unto him over all his Sovereignty. Whereupon Chaichosroes fled for his refuge and aid to the emperor Alexius Angelus as his father had done before him, albeit not with so good Fortune and speed as his father, for he was sent home again thence without his purpose. He was scantly come to Iconium, but he was expulsed by Rucratine and driven to fly to Lebune king of Armenia: of whom he was friendly received and courteously entertained: but as for relief and aid he got none, wherefore he returned to Constantinople and there in poor estate passed out the rest of his days.  
During the Empire of this Alexius Angelus, the Venetians took Constantinople and Angelus being thence disthronyzed, the greeks in Asia created Theodorus Lascaris his Son in Law, Emperor, who had under his Empire and obedience not only Bythinia and the Regions along the Sea, 
Emperonte deposed by his Son in law.  but also extended the limits of his Dominions very far into the main Land, and had under him all from Caria and the river Meander southward, to the Sea Galaticum and Cappadocia Northward, and constituted his Imperial Seat at Nice. Which so tickled and fretted Alexius, that he passing the Sea Aegaeum entered into Asia, and privily went to jathine the Son of Rucratine (being now Sultan) in pitiful plight & poor raiment: before whom he in suppliant words opened his state & fortune, & humbly besought him of aid & succour to restore him to his lawful Empire and Crown, unjustly by an usurper detained & withholden: not forgetting to put him in remembrance of the former friendship which afore time he had showed & horn to him while he was in prosperity, and further promised him great Sums of money. Insomuch that jathine taking compassion upon him and moved greatly with his large promises, forth with dispatched Ambassadors to Theodorus, threatening war and destruction unto him, unless he gave place to his father in law & suffered him quietly to enjoy his rightful Diadem and Imperial authority.  
them out of that poor plot and beggarly region, which affronteth Persia and the Caspian Sea (almost Islandwise) and is environed on each side with the Scythian Ocean, and joineth unto Asia by one only Isthmus or narrow portion of land lying between the two Seas, the which is compassed and enclosed with the high and inaccessible Mountains called Riphaei as it were with a Wall or Rampire: the waves of the Sea (sayeth Hayton the Armenian) going back, and making way for them to pass between the Mountains and the Sea. And therefore all those Scythians afterward, of that Tribe whereof their first Emperor was descended, were called Tartarians: whose ancient descent and beginning many (as before we have said of the Turks) do refer unto the ten Tribes of Israel, whose opinion I do not see how it standeth with reason nor whereupon it is grounded. This am I persuaded and this seemeth unto me most like and probable, that the Scythians be descended of Magog the son of japetus, of whom the Scripture in many places maketh mention: and that those ten Tribes were by the King of Persia translated not into Scythia but into Media. But howsoever the matter goeth, the Tartarians in such sort as we have declared, issuing and in great companies departing from the Hyperborcans under the conduct of Cangio, (whom for honour's sake they called Cham, which is as much to say as a most high and Sovereign Emperor) took their way down along to the Sea Caspium.  
In the mean season, Cangio the Cham departing this life, his Son Hoccota succeeded in his place, a man right wise and valiant, and the eldest of twelve brothers. He sending out Gebesabada with a huge power to subdue and conquer the regions of the Occident, and himself in person passing the Caspian Streictes, Sogdiana, Bactrian, Oxo and the river Sogdus (which is increased with many and the same great springs flowing and running into it) wintered at the foot of Mount Taurus, solacing himself and enjoying the fruictfulnesse of that region and such booty as he had before taken. This Mount Taurus is the greatest Mountain in all the world, whose ridge & top hanging still together without any partition, hath his beginning Westward near the Sea Aegaeum and stretching a long to the Ocean oriental, divideth all Asia into two parts. This Hill is also called Caucasus. The next Spring when the ground was new clothed & decked with the fresh attire of green grass & pleasant flowers, they discamped from the foot of Caucasus, & like an innumerable sort of Sheep, mounted to the top of the Mountains, invading the Countries underneath them: and after they had there, made great pillage and taken their pleasure, they pierced into India, all about the Banks of the noble river Indus on either side: 
Cambalu a noble city of India.  constituting the Ocean, for the limit of their Empire. And there building a Princely City called Cambalu most beautiful sumptuous and large, and for all pleasure of man the most delectable and pleasantest City in all Asia, appointed it to be their chief Palace and Seat Royal. Afterwards, exploiting his wars by Deputies and lieutenants whom he made Chieftains and generals over his Armies, choosing thereto such as were either his brothers or else of the blood Royal: some of them went Northward, some Westward, and some southward: and after they had subdued the Arachosians Caramanians & sundry other Nations, won Persia and thence expulsed the Turks: they than came to the Chaldees and Arabians. From thence they marched against the Babylonians, and Assyrians and conquering Mesopotamia, brought under their subjection the Persians, Parthians and Medians.  
After this, going up by the greater Armenia, with incredible celerity they overcame Colchis northward, and Iberia that confineth hard upon it, insomuch that their state surmounted, and flourished in same and honour exceedingly. Now, this mighty Tartarian Prince was purposed to make the Sea on every side the limits and bounds of his Empire, but the pleasant delicacies and amiable soil of the Country of India, so mollified and effeminated his mind, that being loathe to depart thence, he settled & stayed there, and distributed the Provinces, Cities, Houses, fat Farms and Tenements among his soldiers and people, and received the Rites, Ceremonies and Customs of the Assyrians, Persians and Chaldees.  
Therefore as soon as these Tartarians having passed the Caspian Mountains, had suddenly and forcibly surprised Alexandria, a city standing near the Streicts now called the Iron Gates: the Imperial Sultan of the Turks greatly terrified and dismayed with this sudden irruption of a new and most fierce people and fearing jest if he should be driven and enforced to enter into Wars with the Tartarians, his old Enemies the Romans would be ready to set on him behind at his back, sent his Ambassadors with full authority and commission to the Emperor, to confirm and strike an unity and peace between them: which thing the Emperor as being encoumbred with Europian Wars) was very glad of, and willingly thereunto condescended, because the Turks should be as a strong Rampire and Wall in Asia for him, against the invasion of the Tartarians. This League therefore with the Turks was of all hands gladly embraced, and to the Greekish Empire most conducible. For whereas men (being so long time afflicted with the lamentable calamities of long Wars) bad neither occupied tillage, nor bred up Cat-tail, it fell out in th'end (as needs must) that great dearth and scarcity was in all the country, and their Treasuries also with the charges and costs of so long continuance were in manner emtied and clean exhausted.  
Wheresore being now by this new atonement and League rid out of the same and brought to quietness, 
Peace bringeth plenty.  he bent his whole mind an other while to the feats of peace, the sweet Nurse and Storehouse of plentifulness and abundance. And because he would by his example provoke and stir up the rest of his subjects to do semblablit, he (like a good Householder & one fit to be a Prince among the people) undertook to procure & 'cause so much of the unhusbanded ground as was neither fit to bear corn nor good to plant Vines, to be turned up and tilled: and manured so much thereof, as he thought would be sufficient for the expenses of his own Table, & for the maintenance of all them whom of his mere liberality and bountiful goodness he had retained and taken into his charge to keep and see cherished, that is to wit, the poor, diseased, & impotent people, unto whom he assigned houses and Hospitals, and appointed also certain Granaters and overseeers such as were trained up & had the skill of Tillage and Vine planting. 
The good example of the Prince doth much good in a Realm.  Which officers laid up yearly in his Storehouses and Graners great provision and store of the overplus of the corn. He also had abundantly store himself with Oxen, kine, Horses, Sheep Swine and with divers kinds of same Birds, by whom he yearly received great increase and profit. This not only did he himself, but also by his example, occasioned others of the Peers and Nobilyty, his Cousins and Allies to do the like, so that every one, having of his own competently whereon to live, the Commonalty should not be oppressed, nor the inferior sort by source and extortion of the richer impoverished, with any intolerable Tributes, Assessments and Payments.  
By this means, the Roman weal public was scoured and clean purged from all notable exactions, and bribing pillages insomuch that within few years space, every man had his Barns and Cellars full stored and stuffed with Corn and Wine: and such increase of cattle Hens and other homish Foules, that the high ways and strets, Stables and Sheep coats, Houses and Gardens were uneath able to hold them.  
This golden state and blessed felicity was hereby also the more augmented, 
A blessed plenty of all things caused through peace and good government.  for that the Turks were within themselves marvelously pinched and afflicted with great hunger, dearth and penury of Corn, whereby it came to pass, that all their Gold, Silver, jewels and precious Wares through this godly forcaste and divine wisdom of the Emperor, came into the hands and possession of the Romans, for than might a man have seen them feign to chop and change their rich Wares for a little bread Corn, to sustain themselves withal: and every Bird, Ox, Cow or Kid was sold at an excessive price. All the ways were pestered full of turkish Women and Children of the Turkish Nation coming to and going from the Roman Provinces.  
The Empress also of the overplus of hens eggs (for they were not possible to be all spent in her house and Family) at that time sold at a very high price daily to the Turks, 
I Crown Imperial for the Empress bought with the money that was had of the Turks for Eggs in the time of dearth.  had got together in short space such an incredible Mass of Money as was sufficient to pay for a most rich Crown of Gold set full of orient Pearls and precious Stones, which for that cause the Emperors called and termed Ouata, because it was bought with Egg Money & so in short time the Emperor enriched himself and all his Subjects with Wealth exceedingly.  
During this while, the Tartarians under the leading of their captain Baydo, marching and making impressions into the frountiers of the Turkish countries, the Sultan of Iconium, levying as great a power as he was able of all Nations (for he had then with him of greeks and Latins, that is to wit, of Italians, Germans and Frenchmen, two cohorts or Bands. Over the Greekish band was captain one john Livitnada a Cyprian borne (or as some say, one Paleologus) who erst had revolted from the Emperor: and over the Latins was Boniface Moline one of the nobility of Venice) every man being brave in apparel & well appointed with Pennons and flages of their own Arms. With these courageous personages, marching against the Tartarians, he met with them in a place near to the City Arscor in the great Armenia called Cosdrach. The Tartarians so soon as the espied this strange Army appareled contrary to the guise and fashion of that country, supposing some greater aid and succour had been sent unto them, were marvelously dismayed & astonished, and if one of the Sultan his Kinsmen, for an old grudge, had not in the beginning of the battle fled unto their side with a great crew of partakers, they would have turned their backs and fled, But the occasion thereof was the cause at that time of the Turks ruin and overthrow, & afterward almost brought all their kingdom & principality in subjection to the Tartarians. For the Tartarians obtaining the upperhand & victory in this conflict, neglected not the opportunity & good chance that Fortune now offered them, but passed the river Euphrates and subdued Syria as far as Palestina & Arabia. Where after they had assessed yearly tributes upon the remnants of the Syrians, Arabians, & Phaenicians, they laded themselves with many rich booties & spoils, & returned again into the orient. But the next year following, they passing Euphrates again took their way Northward into Cappadocia, & went as far as the river Thermodoon: and taking Iconium the chief City that belenged to the Turks, Azatine the Sultan being banished with his Brother Melecke fled for succour to the Emperor Michael Paleologus, whom not long before (in like case and respect fleeing unto him for comfort and aid) he had pleasured honourably and entertained with all points of princely courtesy. And putting him in remembrance of his former friendship showed unto him in his need & distress, and unfolding before him the pitiful plight of this his present state and calamity, instantly requested him, either to aid him against his Capital foes the Tartarians, or else to assign him some piece of ground or odd corner (as it were a colony) where he & his people might repose themselves in some more ease and security: for he had brought with him his wives and Children and many Servants, with much wealth and Richesse. The Emperor, for that he was on every side encumbered and wrapped in Wars, would in no wise diminish any part of his own power, 
Policy in Princes.  and as for the assignment of any part of his Country, to such a great Potentate as had been a mighty Monarch and Prince over many Provinces, and also from his tender age ever brought up in Princely pomp and stately pre-eminence, he judged a thing very dangerous. For he considered, and wisely imagined that the Lords and nobility which were under his rule and authority, would seek their Lord and Master where ever he should be, and that his people being scattered and dispersed in divers places, like the wandering Planets in the night, would flock together and concur to him that goeth before them with a Link and leadeth the way. So would they come running to their King, and so perchance in th'end, work unto the Romans some myckle woe and disturbance. And therefore ●ooding him out with fair words and noseling him in good hope, he kept him at a doubtful stay, without giving any resolute answer to his requests. Azatine, for that his Parents were Christians and he himself also Christened & washed in the Sacrament of holy Baptism in his infancy, resorted daily with the Emperor to Sermons and hard the holy Scriptures, daily preached and remained so long with the Emperor, till at length by the means & help of the Europian Scythians, he made an escape and fled with his Sun Melecke out of the town Aenum and passed the river Ister and within a while after died, and Melecke by Sea passed into Asia to the Tartarians, and of them obtained the Kingdom of the Turkish Nation, as his father's inheritance. But a certain Duke named Amurie with a Warlike power him encountered and overthrew, so that he was feign to fly unto Heraclea, a City of Pontus: and within a while after again returning to his native Country & recovering his father's kingdom, within short space was traitorously murdered.  
Thus was the Turkish Empire subverted and brought to final ruin, and from a State of well ordered discipline and magnificence, fell to utter decay and extreme confusion: the cause whereof was, for that, not only the Nobility and higher Powers divided the Kingdom into many sections and parts, but many also of base degree and obscurer Parentage, (associating unto them the rascal Peazauntes and vulgar sort) practised pylfering and robbery, carrying nothing with them but their Bow and Quiver of Arrows: and taking up their Rowst in the Streictes of the Mountains, made many roads into the countries about, and the Cities belonging to the Roman Empire. For it happened a little before, that the garrisons defending the Castles & fortresses of the Empire, for want of payment of their féees, & yearly stipends at the emperors hands, would serve no longer but departed thence, which being at the first (as a thing of small weight and moment) neglected, was in the end the cause, that the Roman Empire sustained and incurred most grievous dangers and calamities. For when the Turks were displaced and expulsed by the Tartarians, they displaced and expulsed the greeks, and look how weak they were in comparison of the Tartarians, so strong were they against the greeks: insomuch that at length the matter was decided with open war and dent of Sword. For the Emperor understanding that a great power of Turks were up in Paphlagonia, levied a very competent Army, to repress and (as much as might he) to inhibit their violent insolency, lest if they should be still suffered impunely to range & spoil without resistance, it might breed further danger and inconvenience. And therefore when Bee had assembled his power together, he sent the same being well appointed against them, who encountering the Turks, had of them the victory. But whilst they disorderly and overfar in chase beyond the river pursued them, they fell into the bands of an Ambush which the Turks the night before had there laid for them. By means whereof they being on th'one side beset with an Haost of fresh Soldiers well appointed in battle array, and on th'other side penned in and enclosed with the river, they were slain almost every man. The Turks triumphing for this success and victory, enroaded afterward within the Roman Territories, and came as far as the river Sangarius, and subjugated under their obesaunce., all from the Pontic Sea and Galatia to the Sea Lycium and Carium and the river of Eurymedon.  
At this time also, 
Mamalukea.  the Mamalukes (which word by interpretation signifieth Servants or Slaves) obtained the Kingdom in Egypt, and advanced the limits of their Empire into Aphrica & Lybia as far as Gades: and subdued Phoenicia and Syria and all the Country joining upon the Sea coasts.  
Now, how this came to pass, we will declare. The Caliphes and all the Saracenes, lulled in case and nuzzled in effeminate niceness, (engendered by the delicious and tender allurements of that pleasant Clime and region) become so slothful, that although they possessed a most wealth and fertile kingdom, yet were they easy to be vanquished and subdued by any: and the Caliphes being all given to lust, Sensuality and pleasures, took no care to any thing, neither attempted any enterprises themselves, but executed and administered all their Affairs by a Vicegerente which was called an admiral. Therefore when as Baldwine King of Jerusalem had made the Kingdom of Egypt tributary unto him (which tribute Almericke his brother and Successor claimed as due and payable unto him, and the Egyptians flatly denying the same:) Almericke with an Army entered into Aegype and in the deserie vanquished in battle Dargan the Admiral of the Kingdom with all his power, and compelled him to fly for his safeguard into the City Bilbis. This was about that time of the year, when the river Nile, by course had his yearly increment and overflowed his Banks, whose Dams and Scluses the Egyptians of purpose broke down, because they would stop Almericke from further pursuit and victoryewherefore laden with spoil and rich boofyes of his enemies he retired back again into his own Country and Kingdom, for fear lest he with his whole Host if they had longer raryed, should have been drowned and swallowed by with the merciless water.  
This overthrow and adverse fortune of Dargan, gave occasion to Sanar (whom the same Dargan a little before perforce had displaced and put out of the office and dignity of Admyrallship, and caused to fly for succour to the Arabians, his Tribe fellows) to go to Norandine the Son of Sanguine the most mighty King of Damascus, by him to be shrouded from the malice of his adversary. that Realm and Country, eftsoons invaded Egypt and took by force the City Bilbis, shewing much cruelty with fire and Sword to all sorts of people, sparing neither age nor Sex. Wherefore Sanar desired aid of Norandme, & upon promise of great Sums of money, so long stayed and repressed the impetuous course of Almerick his victory, till such time that his aid came, of whose coming when Almerick had understanding, he raised his Camp and departed out of Egypt. Therefore Syracon who had the leading and conduct of Norandines men finding Egypt without any foreign aid or secure marched strait to Cayr the chief & royal City of the whole realm, ●nd slew Sanar coming out to parley and confer with him. And when he had got the possession of the City he went to do his duty and exhibit honour to the Caliph, of whom he was created Admiral of the Land, which dignity he enjoyed a year and then died: leavings behind him for his successor Saladine his Brother's Son, a man of a surpassing and politic wit, stout, valiant, 
Egypt when it first came into the possession of the Turks.  and of nature most frank and liberal. Who immediately murdered the Caliph with all his bloud● and Progeny, to th'intent he might alone have both the Authorities and rooms. Thus was that most wealthy Kingdom brought under the obedience of the Turks in the year of our Lord. 1150.  
Afterwards Saladine (as he was a man very prudent and wise) perceiving how tenderly and effeminately the Egyptians lived, insomuch that when any invasion of foreign hostelitie approached or were like to grow, the kings were ever glad and feign to crave foreygne aid to support and help them, determined with himself to institute some kind or order of warfare and to train up a troop of such Soldiers as should be able at all brunts and assays to be as a rampire, or strong Bulwark to the whole kingdom. Perceiving therefore that the people bred and borne in the Northern quarters were both a pter and also stouter for the Wars than the Southern borne were, entered into League with certain people inhabiting about Maeotis and Pontus, called Circassians (of Pliny and old writers, Zigians) and bartered with them for an intercourse of Merchaindize between them & him, namely that they should serve him of Boys and young striplings at a certain price. Who being brought into Egypt and from their youth trained up in feats of chivalry and warlike discipline, should do nothing but handsomely practise the handling of their weapons and artillery, & when time required serve in wars and should have the ordering of all honours and dignities bellicall. For the Zigians are a people of nature very fierce, accustomed even from the Cradle to abide all manner of labour, hardness and travel, inhabiting that parts of Pontus and Meotis which is about the river Phasis which river is the bounder and mere of Colchis, and the mouth of Tanais, which Country or region containeth wellnear 500 miles.  
These people devil not in Cities and Towns, 
These people were after called Mamalukes.  but wander and are dispearced here and there without any certain habitation from Village to Village. Christians they are by their profession and religion, albeit they use many rites unlike unto ours: their Infants as soon as they are borne (yea though it he in the midst of winter) they carry unto a river and there wash them. They are for the most part fair of complexion and of comely stature, the country is fenny and full of reeds, whereof they do make hovels and Cottages to devil in, they be at continual Wars with the Tartarians and other Nations about them.  
The Nobles and Gentlemen among them never go but in Armour and Coats of Fence, and always ride lieutenant and chief Captain under the Emperor of Tartarians him overcame and took Prisoner in the year of our Lord God. 1258. and caused Mustacene Munibila (who at that time had that office and dignity, among the huge and inestimable heaps of treasure and riches which he had hoardward up and miserably scraped together) to be famished. After this, almost for. 200. years space the Saracenes had no high bishop, till at length in Persia the lineage and offspring of Mahomet began again to reign in the year. 1480. which how and by what sort it came to pass, resteth here to be showed and described.  
There was a certain Prince among the Persians, Lord of a Town called Ardenel, and his name was Sophi who greatly gloried, and bore himself very lofty and high for that he was as he said descended of the rac● and Pedagrewe of Ali the Son in law of Mahomet by Musa Cazine his Nephew, of whom we spoke in the first Book. This fellow now seeing the Babylonian Caliphe to be slain, and the contrary faction which the Turks maintained and kept to be depressed and triumphed over by the Tartarians, began frankly and boldly to utter his mind and opinion concerning Religion. And because Hoceme the Son of Ali from whom he made his avaunt to be lineally descended, had twelve Sons, therefore he willing to give some difference and token whereby his Sectaries might be discerned and known from all others, commanded and ordained that so many as would embrace and follow his Lore and Doctrine should wear a purple Rybon or Label hanging down from their wreathed Veil which all Turks wear aswell as they upon their heads, called Tulibante, and the same in the middle to be raised up into twelve tops or heights without the Tulibante.  
After he was dead, his son Guines succeeded in his room, who for learning and sanctity got such estimation and fame throughout the whole Orient, that the most mighty Emperor of the Parthians, named Tamburlaine (even he which took Ba●azete the King of Turk's Prisoner) leading his Army & passing through Persia, deigned to turn out of his way and to visit as a man of most holy life and unspotted sanctity. At the request of which Guines, the same Tamburlaine freely delivered out of his captivity xxx M. Prisoners which he had taken in his Wars and as than had with him in his Camp: whom afterward Guines instructed and trained up in his Sect and discipline, whoseseruice and help Secaidar his Son in his wars afterward used. For he after the death of his father Guines, reposing his special trust & chief strength in them, warred upon the Georgians a people of Scythia being Christians bordering upon his Countries, and by their help afflicted and put them to many foils, overthrows, and distresses.  
There reigned in Persia a certain Turk named Mirza Geunda, who warred with Hacembecke (whom some do call Assambey) King of the greater Armenia which is of them called Diarbeck, being also a Turk aswell as he: in which Wars Acembeck got the upperhand, and stew his enemy Mirza in Battle, and having won Persia, because he was but of a base stock and obscure family and without Kinsmen and Allies, he meant to make and establish the state of his Kingdom the surer by linking in affinylie with some puissant house and thereupon gave his daughter which he begat upon his wife the Emperor of Trapezunte his daughter (who was a Christian) in marriage unto Secaidar. 
Beg in the Turkish language signifieth a Lord.  After the death of Hacembeck, succeeded jacob Beg, which word signifieth a Lord.  
This jacob fearing the great power of his Brother in law Secaidar (partly gotten by his new Sect, and partly by his Wars with the Georgians) privily sent aid to his Enemies, and caused him to be slain. But his two sons Ismahel and Solyman, he committed in charge to one of his familiar and assured Friends to carry and convey a far of, unto Mansor Deporna, Constable of the City of Siracia: willing and straightly charging him to keep them in sure ward and custody within the strong Castle of Zalgah, which standeth upon a high and inaccessible Rock, till such time as by express certificate he should otherwise countremaunde him. But Mansor taking remorse and pity on them, for the honour of Ali (of whose ancient blood they were derived) kept them like Princes and used them most honourably, causing them to be trained up and instructed in learning with his own Children.  
And after certain years, 
An example of pity toward them that were fatherless.  falling into a grievous sickness and malady, insomuch that he saw himself not like any longer to live, and fearing lest his Son Caceme being a young man, would after the death of him, deliver these young Orphans and fatherless Children to Rocene (which reigned after his Father jacob) furnished them with money, Horse and Guides needful for their journey, and sent them home again to their Mother and Kinsfolks.  
These Orphans being informed of their state and noble birth, and by what means they had been preserved (which thing before that present they knew nothing of) their Kinsmen, Adherents and favourers, for their father's sake flocking in from every part unto them. Ishmael the elder of the twain, whose wit was both more pregnant and deeper than his Brothers, (drawn thereto by destiny & natural zeal) openly before his friends protested that he would never rest, till he had revenged the murder and death of his father, and after he had made certain roads into the Marches and Precinctes of the Georgians (his power also daily increasing) he named himself protector of Ali his doctrine and defender of all his authorities; and therewithal denounced open War upon Rocene King of Persia and all his partakers. And because he had xij Brothers, which contended with him for the succession of the Crown, he flew him and all the rest, saving only Marabeck.  
This Marabeck fled to Solyman Prince of Turks, and requested his aid, whereupon ensued much trouble and great Wars between the Othomannians and Sophians. But before he had obtained any aid of the Turks to secure him, Ishmael had won not only all Persia, but also achieved and won many notable victories of the Tartarians. 
The kings of Persia be right saracenes.  And thus the Saracenes expulsing the Turks, began again to reign in Persia, in the year after the nativity of our Saviour Christ 1500. and there do reign till this day.  
And the Turks with all their powers together having conquered all the Roman Provinces in Asia as far as the Sea, distributed and cast lots for the same among themselves, in which distribution and Lottery, the maigne country of Phrygia as far as Philadelphia, and near to Antioch (situate upon the river Meander) fell unto Carman Alisure, whereof the Country was afterward named Caramania. All from thence to Smyrna and the inner Coast of jonia, happened unto one Sarcane.  
Magnesia, Priene and Ephesus were allotted unto Sasan. From Lydya and Aetolia to Mysia situate by Hellespont, Calames and his Son Cerasus enjoyed. From the river Sangar to Paphlagonia, the Sons of Armurius parted among them. All within Olympus and the whole Country of Bythinia, fell unto Atman, otherwise named Ottoman, (of whose race the Emperors of Turks which ever since and now at this day reign in Turkey and lineally descended) in the year of our salvation 1300. Albert the first of that name, descended of the house of Ostrich being then Caesar and Emperor of Germany. And from this Ottoman, Laonicus Chalcondyla an Athenian, Paulus iovius and other both Greek and Latin Turcographers do begin their Histories: wherefore to avoid tediousness, lest after Homer, we should seem to writ an other Ilias, here we make an end.  
FINIS.   

¶ A summary or brief Chronicle of Saracens and Turks, continued from the birth of Mahomet, their first peevish Prophet and Founder, till this present year. 1575.  
MAhomet the Son of Abedela and Emma, of the line of Ishmael, was borne at Itraripe in Arabia, in the time that Maurice was Emperor and Gregory the first, Pope of Rome.  
Mahomet patched together his Alcorane, (a Book containing his pestilent doctrine & gross opinions) through the instinction and procurement of two heretical Monks. john of Antioch and Sergius of Italy. And therewith seducing the light brained Arabians and other fickle minded people of Asia, called them Saracens.  
At the age of xl. years he died, and was buried in Mecha a City of Persia.  
Jerusalem after it had been besieged by the Saracens the full space of two years, was taken and spoiled.  
All Syria overrun and wasted by the Saracenes.  
The Saracenes revolted from the Emperor of Romans.  
Antioch destroyed by Saracenes, Damascus taken, Phoenicia invaded, and Egypt subdued.  
The Saracenes wan the greatest part of Africa and laid it to their Empire.  
The most Noble I'll of Rhodes invaded by the Saracenes and taken: out of which they carried away with them great abundance of Gold, and a Noble Image of the Sun, called a coloss, which was in height. 110. foot. The Brass thereof being sold to the jews, was as much as 900 camels could carry away.  
They practiced outrageous Piracy on the Aegean Sea, and did much harm to the Isles called Cyclades.  
The Saracens discomfited Olympius the Exarch of Italy with all his Host in Sicily.  
Constantine the fourth, entered into league with Muchamed King of Saracens upon condition that the Saracens should pay a great Sum of Gold to the Romans, with a goodly Horse and a Child of noble birth.  
The Saracens rushed into Sicily, and after they had taken Syracuse and wasted the whole Country, they returned back to Alexandria.  
Constantinople was besieged by the Saracens, unto which, they gave sundry assaults but all in vain: wherefore they shipped themselves intending to have returned home, but the greater part of them through Shipwreck perished by the way.  
The Romans overcame the Saracens, and slew of them. 30000.  
Peace the second time was made between the Romans and the Saracens for thirty. years, upon condition, that the Saracens should pay yearly to the Romans. 3000. li. of Gold, 50. noble Prisoners and as many Horses.  
The Saracens in the reign of their King Ammirath, invaded Africa and Lybia, & carried away many spoils.  
After the death of Constantine, the Emperor justinian entered into league with the Saracens upon these conditions, that they should restore unto the Empire, Africa and Lybia, and pay every day for the space of ten years, a thousand Crowns, a Horse, and a Child of noble birth, in the name of a Tribute.  
justinian breaking this League, and joining battle with the Saracens, received at their hands much harm and great overthrows.  
The Saracens putting the Romans to flight, greatly enhanced their name and authority: contrariwise, the dignity of the Romans thereby greatly decayed.  
Abimelech King of Saracens, invading Africa, enjoyed not his victory there long.  
The Romans spoiling Syria, discomfited. 200000. Saracenes.  
While justinian and Leontius were striving for the Empire, the Saracens again invader 〈◊〉  
The Saracens sailing out of Lybia, thus year set first foot into Spain, wasting Arragon, Betica and Lusitanie.  
The Saracens of Asia, landed at Constantinople with 300. Sail, and fiercely besieged the same both by Sea and land. The same year in Bulgaria there were slain. 22000. Saracens.  
Zulcemon King of Saracens, died in his Camp before Constantinople, in whose place succeeded Amirath.  
During this Siege of Constantinople, many of the Saracens died of famine, plague and cold. They that remained alive meaning to return home, by tempest on the Sea and Lightning, perished, being partly consumed by fire and partly drowned in the waters: insomuch that of their whole fleet which was. 3000. Ships more and less, there escaped but only five. This Siege lasted fully two years. The same year the Saracens thinking to recover some of their former losses, with a huge Army entered into Spain, and spoiled all the Country saving only Gallicia.  
Abidimar captain of the Saracens in Africa, sacked and spoiled Bordeaux a City of France, and removing thence to Poitiers, was met withal and repressed by Charles Martellus. Their Captain and Prince Abidimar being slain, the Saracens for a while were quiet and meddled not with any more wars.  
The Saracenes bringing with them their wives, Children and whole Household, entered a fresh into France, as though they had meant there continually to have dwelled, and planted themselves for ever. With them, Charles the Great joined Battle, having the aid of the French Nation, and slew of them. 380000. and lost of his own men only 1500 Soldiers.  
Charles King of France, by his valiant Knyghthood delivered out of the hands of the Saracens, the noble City of Avignon, which they had before guilefully surprised.  
Charles restored many other Cities to peace and liberty, expulsing out the Saracens: slaying Amorrheus one of their Captains, & putting Athine another of their Guides to flight.  
The same Charles by help of Luitprand King of Lombardy, drove and expulsed all the Saracens out of France.  
Constantinus Copronymus Emperor of Constantinople furnished out a Navy against the Saracenes in Egypt.  
The Saracens in the East were ever winning somewhat that belonged to the Romans and laid it to their own Empire, by means that the Romans disagreed among themselves, and bend themselves only against the French Kings.  
Charles the Great, had a noble victory against the Saracenes in Spain. rowland in combat overcame a Saracen that often challenged the Christians. Through which Victory and upperhand, he made the way the easier for the rest of his friends and Countrymen to win the victory.  
Leo the fourth Emperor made a voyage against the Saracens in Syria.  
Aaron Prince of Saracens with 300000 light Horsemen invaded Nicephorus Emperor of Constantinople, and made him glad to become Tributary, and to accept such offers as greatly misliked and diseased him, but there was no remedy.  
Sardinia and Corsica two Islands, were spoited by the Saracens.  
The Saracens wan the isle of Crete, and overcame the Greeks in two Battles.  
The Saracens of Asia rushed into Palestina, and they of Africa into Sicily.  
Boniface Countee of Corsica, having no help of the Christians saving only the Etrurians, sailed into Africa: and in four Battles, between Carthage and Utica, had of them the Victory and upperhand, and so feared the Saracenes with the terror of his only name, that they were feign to departed out of Sicily, and get them home to defend their own.  
Many Countries received great damage at the hands of the Saracenes, and many Cities for fear, in every quarter fled and submitted themselves unto them.  
Saba King of Moors and captain of the Saracenes wasted Sicily and all the Country about Crotona, and took Tarento: against whom, Theophilus the Emperor and the Venetian fleet stood at resiststaunce, but all in vain.  
The Saracenes invading Hetruria and Latium, spoiled and sacked Rome: but before their return home, the greatest part of them perished by Shypwrecke.  
Having wasted Illyrium and Dalmatia, they coasted along the Adrian Sea, and burned Ancona a City of Picene, after they had taken the spoil thereof.  
Leo the fourth, Pope of Rome, compelled the residue of the Saracens to pack out of the Haven of Ostia, and strengthened all the Country beyond Tiber against them.  
The Saracens again (only for booty and spoil) broke into Italy, and wasted with fire and sword all the Country about Benevent by the Samnytes. But by King Ludovick and King Lotharius they were put to flight.  
The Saracens renewed Wars with the Persians: The Persians through the help of the Turkish soldiers (at that time the Turks inhabited Mount Caucasus and were called Tartarians) overcame them. Ever after from that time, the Turks never left Asia, and not only encroached upon the dominions of the Saracens, but also were called by the same name as they were.  
After the Saracenes had enjoyed Sicily xlvii. years, they were thence clean expulsed.  
Charles surnamed the Thick, repulsed the Saracens breaking into Italy.  
Nicetes one of the Captains of the Constantinopolitan Emperor, had a notable victory over the Saracens  
The Saracens invaded Puell and Calabria.  
At Lyris a river of Campania, the Saracens as they were spoiling the Cities belonging to the Romans, were overcome.  
The Saracens breaking out of Fraxinete, came as far as Aquisgrane where encountering with the Inhabytantes, they were utterly destroyed and Sagitus their captain slain.  
The Saracens spoiled Geane a City of Liguria, and with great booties returned into Afryca.  
Hugh King of Italy wan Fraxinete, and burned the Navy of the Saracens.  
Ramyre King of Gallyce, discomfited a great Army of Saracenes in Spain.  
The Saracenes committing many murders and firyngs in Calabria, Puell and Lucania, by the knightly prowess of Alberick marquess of Hetruria were repressed, and near to Minturne in Campania by the river Lyris vanquished. There intentes were to have come to Rome.  
The Saracenes by force keeping the Mount Garganus made out of it many Roads into the Country near adjoining, and burned Benevent.  
Otho the first, Emperor of Germans, drove the Saracenes out of Italy, and dispossessed them clean out of their hold in Mount Garganus.  
The Saracenes recovered Consentia, out of the which a little before they were thrown out by the Hungarians.  
The I'll of Crete taken from the Saracenes.  
Otho the second, received a great overthrow at the hands of the Saracenes, in a battle fought with them in Calabria the Ideses of julie, with whom the greeks had stricken a League and joined powers. His stoutest soldiers and Captains being in this conflict slain, he himself had much a do by flight to save himself.  
Alphonsus' King of Spain, besieging a strong hold of the Saracens called Viseum, was wounded with an Arrow and thereof died.  
The Saracens dividing their host into two parts, landed in Italy, took Capua and besieged Barum.  
The Saracenes of Asia took Jerusalem.  
Henry the second Emperor of Germans, drove the Saracens out of Capua, and persecuted with grievous War certain Captains which favoured their side.  
The Egyptian Caliph, through the aid of an army of Saracens and Turks (which then ruled all the roast in Persia) spoiled the Temple of our Lord at Jerusalem.  
Baldwyne after xviij months Imprisonment, deceived his keepers and escaping out of Prison, returned to his own people.  
Dominicus Michael Duke of Venice with a well furnished Navy, greatly annoyed the Saracenes in Syria. To the Venetians for their worthy service and valiantness were granted sundry great Privileges.  
An Army of 400000 men set upon the Christians and were encountered withal by 3000. Christians: who thorough the goodness of God, slew of their Enemies with the sword 7000, and 5000 drowned, so that the victory fell to the Christians.  
In Syria the Christians discomfited the Saracens in two notable overthrows: in the first conflict 2500 of them were slain. In the other, although both Armies were afflicted, yet the Christians obtained the victory.  
The king of Ascalon was by Baldwine repressed, and the king of Damascus in three battles overcome.  
After the death of Baldwine the third king of Jerusalem, Fulco was made the fourth king.  
The Earl of Tripoli by treason was slain, king Fulco was put to flight by his Enemies and condescended to very hard conditions, to be clearly delivered from siege.  
The Christians coaped in fight with the Egyptians and were superiors.  
Ascalon was recovered by the Christians.  
Fulco the fourth king of Jerusalem in hunting the Hare and riding fast after the game, through a fall from his horse died: after whom succeeded his Son Baldwine who was the fift king.  
The City Edessa and almost all Mesopotamia was won by the Saracens & Alaph Captain of the Turks, which now were of great name and power in the East: where they killed without all mercy a wonderful number of Christians, ravishing men's wives in the Church of Saint john baptist, & in despite of Christianity even upon the Altar.  
Baldwine the third of that name, and the fift king of Jerusalem, conquered Gaza and Ascalon and cast out all the Saracens. And at Hierico he overcame and put to flight Norandine Master of the Chivalry of Damascus and slew 5000. of his enemies.  
Manuel Emperor of Constantinople with much oversight and negligence led through dangerous ways and desert places his Christian Hosts against the Saracens, insomuch that for scarcity of victuals and other necessaries, they could achieve no notable enterprise against the miscreant people.  
Roger King of Sicily and Normannes, made the African Saracens tributary to him for xxx years, and took their king Prisoner.  
This year Conrade the second, Emperor, levied a great power against the Saracens, against whom he had in battle but ill success.  
Lewis King of France, assembled a mighty Army to go against the Infideles.  
Out of England, Flaunders and Lorraine were furnished out 200 sail against the Saracens.  
This year Conrade the Emperor passing over Bosphorus without any resistance, came near to his enemies: but for want of victuals and (as some say) his corn being corrupted and mingled with lime and plaster, he was glad to stay himself and go no further and to bring back his Army. The Saracens understanding hereof, set upon them behind and slew of them certain thousands.  
The same year the French king came to the Emperor to aid him: but by reason that his Army was greatly distressed and pinched with famine, he could bring no notable achievance to pass. The same time, the Venetians with a well furnished Navy went into Asia, to aid the Emperor against the Saracens.  
The spaniards expulsing the Saracens, recovered Almaria and Tortosa, two goodly embattled Cities.  
The same year, Damascus was besieged by the Syrians, Frenchmen, and Hierosolymitanes, and the Vamures thereof defaced. And when they were even at the point to have won the City and subdued the Saracenes, the chief Princes and Captains disagreeing and falling out among themselves, called their own Soldiers every man together, and departed thence, leaving the siege.  
Raymund King of Antioch with his whole Host was discomfited by the Saracens, who spoiled all his Country. Antioch itself by the King of Jerusalem was hardly rescued and saved.  
Baldwine King of Jerusalem, discomfited the Egyptians and babylonians.  
The Saracenes drove the spaniards by force of Arms out of Almaria.  
Baldwine set at liberty and restored many Cities, expulsing thence the Saracens.  
Baldwine died, and in his steed reigned his brother Almericke, the fixed king of Jerusalem.  
Almericke in Egypt obtained a noble victory.  
The same king besieged Damiata: but in th'end he agreed to a peace upon conditions neither honourable nor profitable.  
The Saracenes of Africa made many Roads into Spain.  
Almericke King of Jerusalem died of an Ague: And his son Baldwine was anointed the seventh king.  
Baldwine in two battles vanquished Saladine King of Egypt, and brought much treasure into Jerusalem.  
The Daughter of the king of Saracens being married to Prince pagan, was taken prisoner on the Sea, by the King of Sicily, in her voyage and journey homeward to her husband.  
This year, the Christians in Jerusalem were overcome.  
Mausamunth king of the Saracens with great costs and charges repaired Carthage.  
Baldwine the vij king of Jerusalem, being infected with Leprosy died. His Nephew Baldwine, his Sister's son was elected king after him, but by frowning destinies he was kept back from his dignity. After whom succeeded the eight king Guye of Lesingham.  
Between this Guye king of Jerusalem and Raymund Earl of Tripoli, there arose dissension and heart-burning which was the cause, that the Christians were brought into extreme danger.  
The Christians joining battle with the Army of Saladine, had a lamentable overthrow. In this battle were slain 20500. Christians. King Guye was taken Prisoner, and the Earl of Tripoli, died suddenly.  
Jerusalem having now been enjoyed and possessed by the Christians. lxxxbiij. was this year by surrendry delivered up to the king of Saracens, and the Christians there expelled, the second day of October.  
This year all jury was won from the Christians by the Saracens: the Cities of tire, Tripoli and Antioch being with much a do and hardly kept.  
Fridericke Emperor of Romans with his son Fridericke, Philip king of France, Richard king of England with many other Princes and Nobles, assembling their parliaments, decreed & thoroughly determined to aid the Christians in jury. Great preparation was made for this voyage. Fridericke leading his Army into Syria, and winning the less Armenia, went in the hot time of Summer, into the River Selephus to bathe & wash himself, where by misfortune he was drowned.  
Lewes King of France, went with an Army toward the holy Land, with intent, to supplant the Saracenes and relieve the Christians.  
The said King Lewes, joining battle with the Saracenes, brought under his subjection Damiata a populous city and curiously embatteyled.  
The same King Lewes, in a terrible conflict at Faramia was taken prisoner by the Saracens, with his two brethren Charles and Alphonse. Whereupon Damiata was redelivered into the hands of the Saracens, whereby he saved his own life and his friends, and was delivered out of Prison. This king was taken the fift day of April.  
The Saracens lost the isle called Baleares, which the Duke of Arragon subdued.  
The kings of Spain falling at variance and discord, the one brother fled into France to crave aid, the other into Africa to desire assistance of the Saracens against his own brother, whereby they wrought much scathe both to themselves and to their country.  
Deadly hatred and grudge fell between the Venetians and the Genoese, whereby the Christians inhabiting Ptolomais and tire were grievously afflicted.  
The Saracens drove the christians clean out of Syria.  
Antioch was sacked by Bodegar the Sultan.  
Yet again, Lewes the french king with his three Sons sailed into Africa against the Saracens with a great power. Where by his knightly prowess he had the victory of them and besieged Carthage: but by reason of the unwholesome country and change of air, the pestilence infected his Host, whereof the king himself died, and his son john also, and then broke up the siege.  
The Armenians and Scythians at Gamala a city of jury were destroyed by the Saracens, with the city also.  
The city Tripoli was taken & fired by the Sultan of Egypt, and the Christians in most cruel wise slain, or else carried away captive.  
The cities of tire, Sydon, Tripoli and Bericus, by the same Sultan, were fired & razed even with the ground. Ptolomais also being afore a place of refuge for the dispersed christians, was taken without any resistance and destroyed, and the very foundations digged up. The christians which fled away and for sook the city, in their way toward Crete perished by shipwreck and were drowned. And thus were the Christians utterly chased out of syria 190 years after they won it under Godfrey of Bolleine.  

The kingdom of Turks.  
ottoman a man of obscure birth & very ambitious, growing in great wealth & riches by spoil and robbery, was the first that took upon him, the name of King of Turks. He within x. years space subdued to his signory a great part of Bythinia & other countries about the Euxine Sea, whose generation since, hath wrought much mischief to Christendom.  
The I'll of Rhodes was won from the Sar. by the hospitelers.  
Alphonse King of Castille in a notable conflict overcame the Saracens, and took two mighty cities.  
Ottoman king of Turks died and after him succeeded Orcanes his Son, the second king of that Nation.  
While Cantacuzen & Paleologus contended for the Empire of Constantinople, Orcanes by force won the most noble city of Prusia.  
Orcanes' in a battle against the Tartarians (for so are the Scythians called) lost the field and was with many of his army slain. After him succeeded Amurathes the third king of Turks.  
Amurathes through the covetousness and treason of the Genowais (lending their ships unto him) passed the streicts of Hellespont to Abydus, where he conquered the cities of Philippople and Hadrianople unto his subjection.  
This Ammurathes invaded Servia and Bulgaria, conquered them from the Christians, and at the same time took and slew Lazarus King of Servia.  
Ammurathes invading the higher Mysia, was thrust into the flank with a Dagger, by one that was a faithful servant to the above named King Lazarus, (whose pretence was to revenge his masters death) of the which wound he died. After Ammurathes thus slain, Bajazeth his son, obtained the kingdom, & was the fourth king of Turks, and slew his own brother.  
Mark Cratenique king of Bulgaria, with all the nobility of his realm, was vanquished in battle by Bajazeth.  
He spoiled Bosna Croacia, Illyria, Albania and Walachia, killing many thousands of Christians, being partly slain and partly carried into captivity.  
Constantinople was afflicted and besieged fully eight years by this unmerciful Tyrant the Turkish king.  
The Lords of England and France at the instance of the Genoese joining with them, made a voyage into Africa against the Saracenes and compelled them to restore and set at liberty the Christian Prisoners living among them, and to pay 10000 Crowns.  
The Walachians craved aid of the Turks against the Hungarians, whom (notwithstanding) the Hungarians vanquished and put to flight.  
The Christians and the Turks met and joined battle at Nicopolis, upon the. 28 day of September. But the victory fell to Bajazeth who had there 300000. stout fight men well appointed, whereof 60000 were horsemen. The Army of the Christians (being French & Hungarians) was not above. lxxx. thousand, among whom there were about twenty M. Horsemen. The French Captains were in a manner all taken Prisoners, Sigismond the king of Hungary himself escaped hardly by flight. In this battle were slain of Christians 20000. and of Turks 60000. This lamentable overthrow happened through the discord of the Christian Host among themselves, by reason that one while the French and another while the Hungarians claimed the first onset and the leading of the Vanguard. After this battle the Turk retired back to the siege of Constantinople.  
Tamburlaine King of Scythia, a man of obscure birth and Pedigree, grew to such power, that he maintained in his Court daily attending on him, a thousand and CC, Horsemen. This Prince invading the Turks dominions in Asia with an innumerable multitude of armed Soldiers, in the confines of Gallitia and Bythinia, near to Mount Stella, gave to the Turk a sore battle, in the which, he slew of them two hundredth thousand. He took Bajazeth the Great Turk Prisoner, and kept him in a Cage, tied and bound with golden Chains. When so ever he took Horse, he caused the said Bajazeth to be brought out of his Cage, & used his neck as a Styrrope: and in this sort carried him throughout all Asia in mockage and derision. He vanquished the Persians, overcame the Medians, subdued the Armenians, and spoiled all Egypt. He built a City and called it Marchantum, wherein he kept all his Prisoners, and enriched the same with the spoils of all such Cities as he conquered. It is reported in Histories, that in his host he had an incredible number of thousands, he used commonly to have xij. hundredth thousand under him in Campe. When he came in sight of his enemies, his custom was to set up three sorts of Pavylions or Tents: the first, was white, signifying thereby to his Enemies, that if at that show, they would yield, there was hope of grace and mercy at his hands: the next was red, whereby he signified blood and flame: & lastly black, which betokened utter subversion & merciless havoc of all things for their contempt.  
The same year Walachia, Transyluania, Moldavia and all the Region beyond the river of Danowe, by procurement of Stephan Vaivoda their Captain, seditiously mutyned and stirred uproars, against Sigismond. Whereby all men might perceive and understand, that the same Vaivoda was the very Author of the late discomfiture, in procuring the Turks to come thither.  
Cyriscelebes (whom some do call Calepine) after that the Great Turk his father was taken prisoner and his Host vanquished by Tamburlaine the Scythian King, saved himself by flight, & took upon him to be king of Turks, being the fist from Ottoman.  
The Turks (after their king was thus taken & their power daunted) achieved nothing worthy of any remembrance under this Cyriscelebes.  
Cyriscelebes the king, this year died, leaving behind him two Sons, Orcannes and Mahomet.  
Orcannes through the great favour of the Nobles of Thracia, was appointed Successor to the Crown, being yet a very young man: but in a conflict at Gazar, not far from the river Hebrus he was slain chief by the villainy of his own uncle Moses.  
Mahomet the sixth King of Turks, when his brother was thus rid out of the way, enjoyed the Crown alone.  
This Mahomet subdued Servia, Walachia, and a great part of Sclavonie.  
Sigismond king of Hungary, in a battle against the Turks foughten in the fields of Salumbeze (which were sometimes called Philadelphia) was put to the worse, and fled.  
Mahomet imposed grievous and intolerable tributes upon the Walachians. He translated the Seat royal or chief City of his Empire out of Bythinia into Thracia, and gave prerogative to Adrianople, preferring it before Prusia. He was the first king of that race that passed the river of Danowe, he subdued Macedon, and came as far as the Ionian Sea.  
Ammurathes the seventh King of Turks, vanquishing Mustapha the son of Bajazeth by force of Arms, obtained his father's kingdom.  
This Turk made his first voyage against George the king of Servia, otherwise called Rascia, from whom after four years siege he wan Newmound and Scopia, and miserably afflicted Synderovia. The kings ij. sons whom he took in battle, he bearest of their eyes and cut of their privy members. But he married and took to wife his daughter for her rare beauty and comely parsonage.  
Thessalonica a famous City belonging to the Signiory of Venice was won by the Turks, who left there no kind of villainy and spiteful dealing against the Christians unpractyzed.  
Amurathes besieging Belgrade in Hungary, lost 10000 of his men and was feign to retire into his own Country after he had in vain and to his great shame, continued his siege seven. months.  
john Huniades encountered with the Turks spoiling Hungary, and them discomfited.  
Ladislaus king of Polony and Hungary, sending out a power against the Turks under the guydaunce & leading of the same john Huniades had over them a noble victory in the fields of Haemus, and drove the Turk to such a streict, that he was feign to condescend to a peace.  
This peace made with the Turk, (contrary to league and oath) was violated and broken by the unabuised procurement and exhortation of Pope Eugenius, which breach to the Christians was very pernicious and hurtful. For first, the Christians in the Streicts of Hellespont lost lxx. Galleys. Afterwards in a battle fought at the field, above thirty. thousand of them slain, belinde a great number drowned in the Bogs. In that battle was slain julian Caesarine a Cardinal & Legate for the pope, who came thither to procure and incense the Princes to violation of their League and Oath, and warranted them from danger: the king Vladislaus himself was there slain who was marvelous desirous to enterprise this War. Huniades with much ado escaped by flight and saved himself. The Turk could not have brought his Navy through the Streictes of Bosphorus in Thracia to do this mischief, had not the covetous Genoese winked at the matter and suffered them, having in bribe and reward, for every Turk, a piece of Gold paid unto them.  
Ammurathes wan the Isthmos of Corinth, and vanquished the Greekish Garrysons, together with the emperors Brother of Constantinople, and overcame with pitiful spoil all Peloponesus.  
The King of Polony encountered with the Turks as they invaded Hungary, and obtained the victory. The Turks desirous of revenge, assembled a huge power afresh, and renewed War. Wherein both parties were lamentably damnyfied, losing wellnear 800000 men between them. Notwithstanding, the number of the Turks there slain, was far greater than of the Christians. But the General of the Christian Army was there slain and his head brought to the King of Turks. In the same battle also was slain the son of the said King of Turks.  
The Hungarians under the leading of Huniades to the number of 600000 entered into the Turks Countries, and joining battle with them, at the first conflict, they had the victory: but in the second, they were slain in manner every one, except 1000 or there about which by flight saved themselves.  
The great Turk besieged Croia a city of Aemathia, many Months, but by the worthy prowess of Scanderbag, he was defeated from his purpose, and with loss of many of his men was sent away packing with a Flea in his ear.  
Amurathes Emperor of Turks died, bequeathing his Crown and kingdom to Mahomet his Son, the 8. King of Turks. Who (lest his Father should be buried alone without company) slew at his first entrance, his own Brother, and commanded them to be buried both in one grave.  
The first War that this Mahomet took in hand, was against Scanderbag. besieging Croia with lxxx. thousand men, but he departed away without his purpose to his great shame and reproach, leaving behind him at the said Siege Ballabano one of his chief Bassas.  
The famous and renowned City of Athens, the University and Nurse of all worthy Arts & Disciplines, was conquered and razed to the ground by this most cruel Tyrant the Turk, who in some places thereof digged up the very foundations, for extreme hatred that he bore to learning. He threw all the Books and Monuments that he could find, into dyrtie sinks and filthiest places in the city, and to be put to the vilest uses that could be. And if any man seemed to lament it, the same party was straight ways put to death. The Castle of Pyruaem and Munychia was also most furiously razed to the ground.  
This Tyrant the xxix. day of May, after a continual assault given thereto from the ix. of April afore, that is to say, 50. continual days, by his innumerable multitude of Turks, conquered the noble city of Constantinople, to the unspeakable hindrance of all Christendom and high advancement of the Turks dominion.  
At the taking of this city, most horrible profanation of the Temples was used. As for Imags which the Turks themselves cannot abide, in great scorn and contempt were thrown down. Among others, Mahomet himself laughing at the superstitious Citizens, in great be rysion gaped and laughed at the Crucifix, and caused it in scornful manner to be carried about the Streets with Trumpets, and wrat upon the head of the said Picture these words Hic est Christianorum Deus. This is the God of the Christians.  
Three days together he gave leave to his outrageous Soldiers, to kill spoil and ravish both wives, Matrons and Maids without any reverence of nature. The citizens some they murdered, some they roasted upon Spits, some they steyed the skins, and afterward hanged them up to consume with fainyne, of others they put Salt into their wounds the more to increase their pain, contending among themselves who could devise most strangest kind of new torment, insomuch that the City was no City, but rather a Slaughter House or Shambles of Christian bodies. The Emperor himself being there slain, his head was pitched upon a spear and carried about. At every dinner and Supper, some of the emperors Cousins and Nobles of the Country were put to death, so long as any remained of that line. Of the inferior sort, no day passed wherein he caused not to be put to execution above CCC. persons, the residue he gave to his Sauldiours.  
The exceeding cruelty that they used at the winning of this City, towards all sort● of Men, Women & Children, and their spiteful demeanour toward Christian religion, it would me any man's heart to hear or read of.  
Mahomet besieged Belgrade (of some called Alba Greca) with a hundred and fifty thousand men. The Christians assembling their powers together, at the exhortation of john Capistrane, Huniades their chief captain and Ringleader slew above xl. thousand of his Enemies and put to shameful flight all the rest of them, in which encounter Mahomet himself was wounded with an Arrow. This battle was fought upon the 22. day of july.  
This Turk joining battle with Assimbey king of Persia, whom they call by the name of Vsuncassane (signifying a worthy & dread prince) in the first conflict at Euphrates, lost x. M. men, but in the second he obtained the victory.  
Corinth was taken by Mahomet.  
The Turk won from the Christians the Empire of Trapezunce, beheading David the Emperor thereof and beside the said Empire and Constantinople also, he took from the christians xii. kingdoms & conquered 200. cities.  
The I'll of Malta conquered by Turks.  
The Venetians furnished out a great navy well appointed into Grecia, to recover Corinth, but they returned without bringing their purpose to pass.  
The same year the king of Hungary recovered Geisa a city of Bosnia, the which the Turk had now the second time besieged, and hearing of the approach of the Christians, he cast 4. great Guns or Cannons into the river Drina, & fled trusting better to his legs then to his hands.  
Mahomet requiring the Prince of Mysia to come to speak with him under coulorable speeches and pretence of peace, when he had him within his danger, he flayed and pulled his skin over his ears, and carried his brother and Sister about with him in triumph.  
The Turk won a very strong hold in Epyre.  
George Castriot (otherwise surnamed Scanderbag) king of Epire, discomfited & put to notable foils the Turks in sundry skirmishes. It is testified of this Scanderbag the being provoked, he never denied to fight, and in fight never turned his back, neither yet was he ever wounded but once with an Arrow in the foot, neither did he ever set upon the Turks with more than 6000 horsemen & 3000 footmen. He is constantly said to have slain with his own hands of Turks 2000 whom with such violence he struck, that many of them he cleft a sunder from the head to the middle.  
Mahomet discomfited the Syrians and Egyptians, took the Cities of Narrantana & Scandolora and fired them, kill all the Inhabitants most ruefully, and throwing down the Nobles and Gentlemen from the tops of Turrettes and high places to break their necks.  
The same year he entered into League with Cisime King of India, to whom he gave in marriage a noble Damsel, out of his own brothelhouse or Nursery, with royal gifts and noble magnificence.  
Mahomet was put to many afterdeales by the power of King Vsuncassane.  
The same year Nicolas Canalis, admiral of the Vetian fleet, gave a mighty overthrow to Mahomet on the Sea, and slew two thousand Turks.  
At the same time many Christians were taken and led into captivity by the Turks out of diverse quarters.  
The Turk sent 400 Sail and 120000 men into the the isle of Euboea under the leading of Omar one of his Bassas, in which enterprise and invasion he lost almost 40000 of his men: notwithstanding, after thirty. days he took it, pytching the Italian Soldiers upon Poles & stakes, and showing all kind of horrible cruelty and violent rape upon the Inhabitants.  
The same year the Turks army entered into Hungary spoiling and robbing as far as Zagabria, and carried away with them. 10000 Prisoners.  
In the same year also they invaded Dalmatia, Foriulij, and Styria, and haried great booties of men and cattle.  
The King of Portugal, passing the Gaditan Sea, recovered many Cities in the borders of Mauritania from the Turk, and laid them to his own dominions.  
King Vsuncassane having the upperhand of the Turks, won from them sundry Cities, whereby he purchased to himself a perpetual fame over all the East.  
Nicholas Throne the same year joined the Venetian fleet with the Army of the King of Parthia against the Turk.  
Vsuncassane in a skirmish vanquished and put to flight 3000 of the Turks Army.  
The same year the Turk entering into Hungary with a main power, spoiled all the Cities near the water side.  
The Persian king and the Turk joining battle near to the river Euphrates: the Turk had the victory, and took of his Enemies 6800 of whom in his return homeward at every staying place and Tent pitching, he commanded every day five hundredth to be cut in pieces with a sword, and then cast them out (like dogs) unburied, filling all the Country of Armenia with this loathsome spectacle of dead Carcases.  
In a part of the Country that lieth by the river Ister called Muldavia and Walachia, the Turks had an overthrow and were slain by Stephan the Palatine of Muldavia, Four Turkish Bassas were here taken and xxxuj. Ensigns.  
Mathias king of Hungary, at the river of Save won a strong Fort from the Turks to his high praise and commendation.  
The same year Capha, a Colony of the Genoese in the coast of the Sea Euxine, was by treason delivered up to the Turk.  
This year died King Vsuncassane, who had under his government the Persians, Parthians, Medians and almost all the East beside. After whom, succeeded his eldest son: who putting his other brothers to death, reigned alone.  
The same year the Turks practiced much Piracy in Nicosia, to the great blemishing and detriment of that City.  
A great multitude of Turks were overcome in Mysia.  
The Venetians made league with the Turk: Chalcis was by force of Arms subdued, and Scodra by subtle practice gotten and persuaded to yield. They promised to pay him, yearly 8000 Crowns, conditionally that their Navigation and traffic over Pontus might be open for their Merchants as before it had been.  
Mahomet sent a great Navy into Puell, and he himself went with an Army into Hungary, and brought out of both places a great multitude of Christian Prisoners. And afterward by force subdued the Isles Leucadia, Neritus, Cephalenia and Zacynth.  
Mahomet went with an Army into Egypt to conquer Alexandria and at home made preparation for all things needful for his expedition to Rhodes, which he now mindedout of hand to besiege, and had framed his plat which way to attempt it.  
This Mahomet by Mesich his General (a Bassa) besieged Rhodes, and beat the same with iiij. navies most terribly. But the same was so manfully defended, that he was fain to his great reproach and shame to depart and leave his Siege, which he had there continued lxxxix. days, in which while he lost of his men which were slain out of hand ix. thousand beside xu thousand which were wounded. The Master of the Rhodes at this Siege for the Christians was the valiant Peter Dabuson.  
The same year the Turk with a great Navy invaded Puell and by Acomate one of his Captains, wan Otronto, a goodly large and populous City standing upon the Sea, and put all the Inhabitants to the Sword.  
In this year also 6000 Turks were slain at the City Mantinaea in the kingdom of Lacedaemon.  
In this year also, this raging Hellhound Mahomet the Great Turk, first of all others took upon him the name of Emperor. He wan from the Christians two flourishing and Noble empires, Constantinople, and Trapezunce, twelve Christian Kingdoms, and CC. cities. After which sundry conquests he yielded up his blasphemous soul, and paid his debt to nature, to the great relaycing aswell of his enemies as of his own people, because of the horrible & unspeakable iorueltie, without respect aswell to friends as foes, most rigorously showed.  
Bajazeth the viij. Emperor of Turks, appeasing all civil dissensions and domestical discord at home, chased his brother Zizime out of all Turki●, and was himself installed in the Empire.  
The same year Ferdinando King of Naples, sent his Son Alphonse with an Army, who recovered from the Turks the City Otronto, before won by Mahomet.  
Also this year john Castriotte the Son of Scanderbag assembled a power and recovered his inheritance that was by force taken from his father by Mahomet.  
The same year also Stephan Vamoda and King Mathias, wan from the Turk the higher country of Mysia, which now is called Bosna.  
Bajazeth often joining battle with the Sultan of Egypt had the worse, and in the end was glad to make a league with him.  
The Turks invaded and wan Walachia.  
〈◊〉 Brother to this Bajazeth the Great Turk living an exile in (Rhodes whither he fled for scare of the said Turk his brother,) was this year sent to Rome to Pope Innocent the viii. And after a certain time of abode there, was poisoned together with Alexander the Pope his Son.  
Ferdinando king of Spain with x. M. Horsemen and fifty thousand footmen, won from the Saracen Moors, the kingdom of Granado, and chased them utterly out of that Country beyond the Sea.  
This Turk Bajazeth with a great power both by Sea and Land invaded the Inhabitants of the Hills in Greece called Ceraunij, and all the free Corporations of Epire, and them subdued to his Turkish Empire.  
The same year Mathias King of Hungary, conquered a strong Hold from the Turks called Sabatrum, whereby his Country lived in more quietness and out of ●eare.  
A mighty Army was sent into Hungary under the leading of Cadume Bassa, by whom were slain seven. M. Hungarians: and for testimony of this spoil and overthrow given to the Christians, they sent many Christian men's Heads with their noses cut of and in loathsome wise disfigured, to Constantinople.  
The Turks rushing into Croacia, were put to flight by Maximilian.  
The Turk warred against the Venetians, spoiling with fire and Sword the Country Dalma●ia, wearied away with him great prays. In Foriulij also he commanded above 4000 men to be beheaded, because he could not carry them away with him by reason of a great deluge of the river there. The City of Venice for dread of him was in great perplexity and fear.  
The Turks wan this year, Modona and Corona, two cities of Peloponese.  
The City Methon was by the Turks won from the Venetians upon S. Laurence day. Bajazeth commanded the Bishop of that place to be beheaded in his sight, and killed the Townsmen every one, and for the most part consumed all the Houses with fire. By like misfortune also, the said Venetians lost Naupactum and Dyrrhachium.  
Certain Kings & Princes of Christendom, friends and favourers of the Venetian state, joined their navy with the Venetian Fleet (over the which Benedict Pisaure was Admiral) and spoiled the Isles of Aegina and Zacynth, invaded Leucas and Cephalenia, took the isle of Neritus (at this day called Saint Maures Island) and rescued Nauplia.  
The Turk greatly fearing his own state, by reason of the brute and rumour that went upon Elias the Prophet of Persia, commanded above CC. Houses in Constantinople with all the Inhabitants therein to be burnt. This Prophet was in such credit and estimation among the People, that above CL. thousand men leaned to his Sect and followed after him in Campe. His Tents were exceeding rich and gorgeous, and all things among them were common.  
The same year, the Turk entered into League and concluded peace with the king of Hungary and the Duke of Venice.  
The King of Spain in Mauritania Caesariensis, won Mayneport from the Saracenes.  
The Sophy of Persia, vanquished, chased, and slew the Turks in Asia.  
Grane a populous and wealth city of Africa this year was won by the Spaniards.  
The Spaniards by force of Arms conquered Bugia in Africa.  
Zelime youngest Son to Bajazeth the great Turk rebelliously and most unnaturally lay in wait to kill his old Father, expelled him out of his kingdom in his old days, with all his Brothers and Kinsmen. At length he caused his Brothers and their Children to be strangled and by a certain jew, whom for that intent he had hired, he caused his said father to be poisoned.  
This Zelime by the factious election of his disordered doultiours and affectionate Rakehelles, was chosen and anointed the ix. Emperor of Turks.  
Acomathes the brother of Zelime, being aided by the Persians, warred against his Brother, but Fortune so frowned on him, that he was strangled.  
Zelime concluding a peace & renewing League with the Venetians and Hungarians, made sharp War upon Ishmael the king of Persia, & him near to a town called Chalderan, vanquished and put to flight: And took Taurum the chief City of his kingdom (sometime called Artaxata) without any resistance or bloodshed.  
He waged fresh wars against Aladule King of Cappadocia, and taking his chief captain in the chase, cut him shorter by the head, and sent his head to Venice for a Trophy or sign of his victory.  
This bloody Zelime discomfited Campsor the Sultan of Egypt with all his power, and slew the Sultan himself in the chase. And following his good fortune and prosperous success in this battle, conquered and annexed to his Empire, Alkaire, and Alexandria two goodly embatteled Cities, and all Egypt beside. He also wan Damascus, the large and renowned City of Syria.  
He made a passage or a bridge of Ships over the river Nilus, to the intent he might pursue and cope with Tomombey the new Sultan of Egypt. Whom by treason he took and after all kinds of most cruel torments and spiteful contumelies, commanded him to be hanged.  
Charles King of Spain drove out of his Realm the Marranes, which were a remnant of the Saracens and slew wellnear of the Barbarians .40000.  
Zelime the Great Turk was this year (as he had well deserved) murdered in that place, where before he had most unnaturally and rebelliously persecuted his Father. After him succeeded his Son Solyman, the xii. Emperor of Turks.  
This Solyman conquered the City Belgrade, a most strong Buttress and Garrison for Christendom, and won divers other Castles and strong Holds in Hungary.  
He also besieged the isle of Rhodes with a navy of four hundredth Sail and a mighty multitude of men. He began the siege in the later end of june, and took it upon Christmas day next following to the great shame & dishonour of all christian Princes. The knights of the same I'll valiantly a great while defended it, & often skirmisshed with him, but in th'end after many notable overthrows for want of aid and power they yielded.  
Lewis King of Hungary desired by his Ambassadors, aid of the Princes of Germany, against the Turk invading his Country and Kingdom, which they appointed to send, but it came to late. For the Turk was already come, wherefore king Lewis in his own person, leading his whole power against him, encountered with him in battle, wherein hes was overcome, and thinking to have saved himself by ●light, was drowned in certain Bogs or Fens both Horse and Man. Many worthy Gentlemen in this Battle were slain to the great weakening of that noble Kingdom. The chief City of the Realm called Buda, was sacked and spoiled: and the noble Library, of King Mathias utterly consumed with fire.  
The Knights of the Rhodes planted themselves against the Turks in the isle of Malta.  
The same year Solyman came again into Hungary, besieged the second time the strong fortress of Bude, but seeing he could not according to his mind by force win it, he persuaded the defendants by certain offers and conditions to yield it into his hands. From thence he marched to Vienna a noble City of Ostrich, and upon the xxij day of September girded the same about with a most terrible Siege, beat it with Ordinance and shook the walls with most hideous noise of roaring Canons. But through the courage of the defendants, he lost many of his Soldiers, and being brought into a utter despair of any good success, he trussed up his trinkets and in flying manner trudged away toward his own Country with all speed that could be, fearing lest the Emperor and other Princes had followed at heels after him. During this siege, he haried great booties out of the Country thereabout, and carried away many thousand Prisoners. He cast out young Virgins & ancient Matrons stark naked, and pitched little Children upon stakes and poles. In his Army he had a hundredth and forty thousand men: whereof (partly in this Siege of Vienna and partly in their flight) perished for famine and cold, the number of lxxx thousand. The City was most valiantly defended by Philip of Bavary Earl Palatine of the Rhine brother to the Palsgrave; a young Gentleman in years but of noble courage, with the Lord William Rogendorf and Nicolas Earl of Salme and with them only xx. M. Almeynes and two M. horsemen. In his journey, through Ostrich, the Turk used unspeakable cruelty, of some he cut of their noses, some he put out their eyes, of some he cut of their privy members, of women they cut their paps, Virgins they ravished, and of women great with child they ripped their bellies and brent the children: beside this, all along as they went, they brent Corn, Trees, Houses and all that was combustible, to make the country desolate.  
Solyman with CC.M armed soldiers assaulted the Castle of Guntz in Hungary, giving thereto. xii●. terririble assaults. Which Castle was valiantly defended by a noble Gentleman named Nicolas juryze. At length it was surrendered unto him, not as won by force, but as yielded by composition. The great T●rke himself hearing that the Emperor Charles was coming against him with. lxxx. thousand footmen and .30000. well appointed horsemen, of Germans, Italians and spaniards, beside the Horsemen of Hungary, thought the Country would be too hot for him to stay any longer, and thereupon fled homeward through the Hillishe Downs of Norica and with great booties returned home, without doing any thing worthy of memory.  
Solyman yet again meant to have an other fling at Hungary, and to scourge the Kingdoms of Africa. Whereupon he sent one Corradine Barbarossa captain of his Navy into Africa against the King of Tunice. Whom he drove out of his Kingdom, and deposed from his Crown. And into Hungary he sent Lewis Gritte, Bastard son of Andrew Grytte Duke of Venyce, to expulse and drive out thence Vaivode. But Meilane Vaivode winning the City of Medevisch, which the said Lewis Grytte before had got into his possession, slew both him and all his Army: And cut his Children into pieces, before their father's eyes.  
Charles the fift with a great Navy sailed into Africa, and restored the king of Tunice to his Crown again, and delivered out of miserable captivity about the number of twenty thousand Christian Prisoners.  
The same year Taurus a City of Persia was taken by the Turk. Where the Turkish Soldiers living in careless security, were suddenly set upon by Tahames king of Persia, and twenty thousand of them slain. The Persians carried thence many spoils and the Great Turk's Concubines, to the great shame and reproach of their Enemies.  
Solyman assembled out of the Countries of Pontus & Propontis, C l. Galleys. lxxx. Brigandines, & foists, and CC. lxx other vessels of divers sorts wherewith he invaded Corsica an Isle belonging to the Signiory of Venice, and it besieged the space of ten days. Then setting the Suburbs on fire, & making great spoil of the country beside kill or else taking Prisoners, many of the Inhabitants, he departed thence, and wasted the isle of Zacynth and Cythera. He conquered and laid even with the ground, the isle of Aegina, subdued Paros, and make Naxos Tributary. He sent into Puell, the greater and better part of his Navy, which were in number ten thousand picked footmen and M M. of his stoutest Horsemen, which haryed and spoiled all the Coast of the Tyrrhene Sea. The fleet of the Emperor, the Pope, and Venetians joining together at the first, through discord and ambition of the Captains among themselves were dissevered and scattered a sunder.  
Invasion and roads were made into Styria by the Martyloys, a rude sort of Peyzauntly Lurdens, altogether given to Pylfery and Theft: but by the valiantness of the Country Inhabitants they were repulsed.  
The same year through Treason of Duke Calcian the Christians had an overthrow at the hands of the Turks in Savia.  
The Venetians entered a Truce with the Turk, by paying unto him three hundredth thousand Crowns, and yielding up into his hands the Towns of Neapolis and Maluasia in the borders of Macedonia.  
The Town of Newcastle in Dalmatia (wherein was a Garryson of Spanish and german Soldiers) was this year conquered and sacked by the Turks and all the Inhabitants and Soldiers therein (according to their usual custom) put to the Sword. The Venetians all this while winked at the matter, in whom it lay to have holpen this outrage.  
After the death of john Vaivoda, who committed the oversight and tutorship of his young Son to his cozen Georgius Monachus, it chanced the Ferdinando levied an Army to recover his Lands & right in Hungary. Whom Monachus in the behalf of the Infant resisted. At length the matter between them being brought to a Parle and convention, for the quieting of all strife, it happened among Ferdinando his men, suddenly a Dag to be hard go of, which by the hea●e of the day (as it is thought) discharged of it own accord. But Monachus judging that it was shot at him, charged Ferdinando with great injury, saying that from that time, he would never believe the promises of Christians. And upon this rash suspicion, sent to the Turk, desiring him to come into Hungary with his power to aid him, who glad to have this occasion, came speedily with a great Army and discharging the Host of Ferdinando from the Siege of Buda, seized the City into his own hands and to his own use, commanding the young Infant and his mother to follow after his Campe. Then entered he himself and took possession of the Castle, and wan also Pestum a City right over against Buda, well stored with Ordinance and Munition. At the same time he also won Stridon, and the Town called Quinquecclesiae or Fynffenkyrken he razed and made leavell with the ground.  
At the winning of Buda, two Ensigns yéeldinge themselves to the Turk upon promise of life and limb, were first by him commanded to put of their Armour, them to put it on again, & to rank themselves in battle array, after the Christian fashion which they readily accomplishing according to his commandment, & he riding about the banks to view and behold them, at length had them put of their Armure again: which done, certain of the tallest and strongest he picked out, the residue he commanded his Soldiers coming behind, to hue in pieces with their sword. Of the other which he had chosen out, some he set for Marks, or Butts to be shot at: and some he appointed to his two Sons to slash with their Falchion's, and to try their strength, whether of them could give the deeper wound, or (as they termed it) strike the fairer blow, that most blood might flow and gush out of their bodies.  
joachim Marquis of Brandeburge Prince elector, was appointed with a great power to go into Hungary to recover Buda and other pieces from the Turk. At the first, he seemed so forward and courageous, as though he would have conquered the whole World. But his great heat in short space so slaked that he was full glad to be discharged of his office again, before any wrong were offered him, and with shame enough returned home again. Whose cowardice the Turks perceiving, thought to show him some cast of their office before his departure, and set upon the right Wing of his Army, and thence took 500 Duchmen prisoners. Whom in derision they horribly mangled and disfigured: and so sent them through Grecia to be witnesses of their victory. The kind of their punishment was this: first, they thrust them clean through the right Arm, with an iron red hot, to make them ever after unable to labour and warfare, secondly their heads were shaven to the very Skulls like Monks or Friars, and thirdly their privy members were cut of, to make them unfruitful for propagation of Children. Notwithstanding Maurice Duke of Saxony in his expedition, showed himself a gentleman of haultye courage and was like to have been taken prisoner.  
This year the Emperor Charles, speeding himself somewhat late in the year with a goodly Navy into Mauritania Caesariensis against Barbarossa to recover Algiers, & staying (as some say) somewhat long at Luke, to confer with the Pope, by force of tempest & contrary Winds, suffered a lamentable Shipwreck, and lost a great number of his goodly Ships with the Ordinance and Habyliments of War that were within them. The Emperor himself by force of weather was cast upon the Baleare Islands. In this expedition the Germans valiantly quit themselves in skirmysh against the Barbarians in the emperors behalf, but the italians recuyled and fled back.  
Truce was for a certain time taken with the Turk which to both parties with long wars wearied, was welcome and very acceptable.  
Sigismond King of Poleland, by Brevitz one of his Captains, conquered and razed a strong Fortress which the Turk had built near to the Marches of his Realm and Kingdom.  
Mustapha the Turks eldest Son, thought he tarried too long, if he should be kept from the Crown till his father were dead, wherefore he incensed the Egyptians to take part with him, and stirred up the Persians to make sharp War upon Solyman his father.  
Solyman the Turk with a huge army, marched against Tolcha▪ King of Persia, where the Turk in battle had a great overthrow and lost many of his men in Persia. The Tartarians which were coming to join their powers with him for his defence, were slain and spoiled in the less Armenia.  
The same year, one Curculey a Turkish Pirate with twenty Galleys and foists, contrary to the League and truce practised much Piracy and roverye about the Coasts of Sicily and Campania, suddenly surprisinge the Inhabytantes, and thence carried away incredible spoil.  
The same year the Saracenes in Barbaria brewing new seditious uproars, were by the valiantness of Sestian and Alban two of the emperors Captains repressed: who also delivered Portugal and Spain from their malicious invasion.  
The Turk intending to make amends for the late ignominy and foil that he had received, levied a new Army against the Persians: and first, he invited his Soldiers by augmenting their wages, and afterward, by his Ambassadors, insinuated himself to all his confederates and confirmed such Leagues as were between them. But he lost of this is very well appointed Army in this journey by famine and plague a great multitude. The plague also being very hot and raiginge in Constantinople (which City in his absence, he had strengthened with a Garrison of a hundredth Galleys) consumed well near lxx, thousand persons.  
In the beginning of this year, (which was a year of jubylie) Solyman was reported (but untruely) to be dead: which merciless Tyrant sore afflicted the people of God, the space of thirty. years.  
The same year the Emperor Charles the fift, by the Viceroy of Sicily, conquered and won the City Africa, from whence he brought 8000 prisoners, and drove out the Archpyrate Dragute, King thereof, who fled to the Turk.  
The Turks after they had in vain for a time besieged the Cas●le of Malta, took the City of Tripoli a port of Barbary.  
Solyman at this time caused his eldest Son Mustapha to be strangled with a Bowstringe, by his dumb men ministers of Murder a vizured, he himself being present and looking on, for suspicion of treason laid to his charge. And there was a truce taken between him and Ferdinando king of Romans.  
After which act committed, he would have given to an other of his sons named Gianger, the Treasure, horse, Armur Ornament and Province of his slain Brother: but Gianger for very sorrow of his Brother's death raging against his Father, calling him wicked dog, traitor and murderer, and bidding pby upon him, refused his offers and drawing out his own Dagger presently thrust himself through the body and died.  
The Turks Army came into Styria, and wan the towns of Coppa, Capenisuar, and Baboza. And attempting to win Sigetum, they could not with all their power bring it to pass. Whereupon they departed homeward, but first, they fired Baboza, Sanmartine, Gerosgall, Selia, San Laurence and Caliange.  
Philip King of spain furnished out an navy to conquer Tripoli, or the isle Gerbe: which Fleet arriving in Gerbe and joining battle with the Turks, was put to a shrewd afterdeale & overthrow. For there were slain of them out of hand to the number of xviii. thousand persons. The Turks in this conflict took xxvii. Galleys, one Foist of force, and fourteen great Hulks.  
In the beginning of the same year the Turks wan a strong Hold in Hungary named Filech: and afterward a Truce was taken between the Emperor Ferdinando and Solyman the great Turk so long as Ferdinando lived.  
The great Turk, sent his Ambassador to Ferdinando, who from the great Turk his Master presented unto the said Emperor a goodly jenet richly trapped and 4. camels with sundry Christian Prisoners.  
Maximilyan now Emperor, by the Lord Lazarus Swendy his General, conquered & beaten down a strong hold & Fort called Tochay, belonging to john Vaivoda which was eigerly defended by the Turks.  
King Philip sent Garzias Captain of his Galleys and admiral of those Seas with a goodly. Navy to win a strong Castle belonging to the Turks called Del Pevol di Velez, standing upon the coast of Africa, from whence Turkish Pirates were often wont to infest the Spanish Seas and take such as travailed that way. Which in uj ●ayes they took, for that the Turk's defending it, in the still time of the night fled away.  
Solyman besieged the isle of Malta, won the Castle of S. helm, but not able to win the rest, he left all and departed with great loss of his men.  
Solyman with a huge power entered into Hungary, and besieged Sigeth and jula. And there died, the iiij. of September, leaving behind him for Heir to all his dominions and Kingdoms, his son Selyme, now Emperor of Turks. Whose tyranny and rage God for his mercies sake, inhibit and qualify, that he use not his power to the destruction and overthrow of Christendom, which with civil discord within itself is at this present piteously rend asunder and most dangerously dismembered. In this Siege the rather to allure his Soldiers to valiant enterprises, he made Proclamation, that whosoever, brought to him or to his Son in law Mechmet Bassa the head of a Sygethian Soldier should have in reward ten ducats, and after that rate accordingly for so many heads as they brought. Beside diverse other causes the vehemently moved him to conquer this strong Piece, this was one, & none of the least, for one of the Turks Captains named Begen coming out of Turkey toward Fynfenkyrken or Quinquecclesiae into Hungary with .1000. fresh Horsemen, was encountered by the Earl Seryne Captain of Sygeth in the night, who took from him 8 Camels 50 Moils 60 Horses, and fire Wagons laden with Treasure and also got ij. red Guydons, with a whole piece of rich cloth of Gold, and a goodly jewel. This captains Horse was betrapped most richly. The pommel of the Saddle & back part was covered over with plate of fine Arabic work, and the rest of the saddle beside the sitting place was plated with Silver and guilt. The Seat of the Saddle was covered with purple Velvet, the Trappers and bridle beset with small Turkeys and Rubies. Which horse and furniture, was sent by Earl Seryne to the Emperor to Vienna. The Captain Begen (although the Earl Serine would feign have saved him and taken him alive, yet because the janissaries fought so eigerly to deliver him, he was forced to kill both him and them. From this Begen, the Earl got xu thousand Turkish & Hungarish Ducats, which should have paid the Turkish Soldiers in Fynfenkyrken.  
This valiant Gentleman at the Siege of this Fortress was slain, whose death greatly discouraged all his company. The Turk himself although he died in the Camp at this Siege, certain days before the fortress were taken, yet by the subtile policy and wonderful silence of Mechmet Bassa his Son in law, his death was kept secret and unknown till the Hold was taken for discoraging his Soldiers. Insomuch that the said Mechmet Bassa, privily caused Soliman's Doctor of Physic to be executed and put to death, lest he should have blabbed out his death. At this Siege were slain three or four Bassas & 18000. Turks.  
The Arabians and certain other Countries began in the beginning of the reign of this Selyme to rebel against him, whom he quickly appeased & brought under obedience. And made a league with the King of Persia.  
After this, although the Turk had entered in league with the Venetians, yet now laying title & challenge to the isle of Cypress, he sent his Ambassador to Venice stately and malapertly to demand surrendry of the same unto him. Which saucy request being not granted, he contrary to league, oath, & promise, first sent out Hali Bassa with 80 Galleys thither to transport Soldiers, Munition, fresh victual & other necessaries. Then were appointed as chief generals two Lords of his Privy Council, Mustapha Bassa, and Piali Bassa, which with their main power landing in Cypress first won the City Nicosia but not without great slaughter and effusion of blood on both parts.  
The City Famagosta was most terrible besieged and six times cruelly assaulted and right valiantly by the Christians defended so long as their power, victual, powder and Shot remained. But the want of these things & the state of their Vaymures being by Canon shot beaten down & perished, caused the right valiant & honourable Sig. Bragadino Lord Governor of the City & others of the Venetian Nobility there, to yield up themselves and the City upon some honourable conditions. That is to wit, that they might departed with their lives Armour & goods, five pieces of Ordinance, three of their best Horses and safe passage from thence to candy with their own Galleys: and last of all that the Grecians inhabiting in that Island, might devil there quietly and enjoy their goods and possessions peaceably and still retain their Christian Religion without either hurt or contradiction. All these requests and Articles, Mustapha the Turkish General granted and subscribed unto with his own hand, but the cursed Caitiff spoke one thing with mouth & thought an other in heart, for the 15 of August, the said Sig. Bragadino (upon trust of this Bassa his promise) accompanied with sundry other lords Gentlemen and Soldiers came forth of their Hold and went unto the Pavilion of Mustapha, with the keys of the City: of whom at the first they were courteously entertained and caused to sit down by him, discoursing with them of sundry matters and drawing them from one tale to another, till at length picking a surmised quarrel and specially to Sig. Bragadino suddenly commanded them all to be pynyoned and to be laid bound one by one in the market place, and in his presence there to be hewn in pieces. As for Sig. Bragadino, he first commanded his ears to be cut of, and most vilely to be stretched a long upon the ground, while Mustapha talked and blasphemously demanded of him, where his Christ was that he helped him no better. Then he led him to all the breaches of the City, making him to carry at once two baskets of rubbish and earth, th'one on his back and th'other in his hand slavelyke to every sundry battery, being enforced also and commanded to kiss the ground as often as he passed by him. After this, he was led to the Sea side where being set in a Chair, he was wynched up and fastened to the maineyard of a Galley, and hoist up with a Crane so high that all the Christian Soldiers and Slaves in the Haven already shipped might behold, and was afterward let down again, and upon the Pyllorie in the market place most cruelly flayed quick. After which most savage tyranny, his skin was stuffed with Straw and hanged upon the Bowsprit of a foist to be carried along the coasts of Syria, that all the Port towns might behold and understand who he was. The Turkish Army at this Siege of all sorts were in number 200 thousand persons. In 79 days (all which time the Battery still continued) 140 thousand iron pellets were shot into the City, numbered and seen.  
The Christian Navy being in number 207 Galleys, 6. Galeazes beside a great number of Pynnesses and other Ships, and 20. thousand ●all Soldiers, of Spain, Italy and Germany beside the Labourers and Rowers, whereof was chief General Don john de Austria took the Sea at Messana from thence sailing to Coreyra, & so to Cephalenia seeking the Turks: where being out of Candy informed of the miserable taking and cruel dealing at Famagosta, were further given to understand, that the Turks lay at Anchor in the Gulf of Velapannt. speeding themselves thytherward, the Turks were in a jolly ruff, marueiling that the Christians cursed so fond hazard themselves unto certain death, and making full reckoning so to afflict and crush the Christian power at that time, that they should never be able afterward to withstand then more. But they reckoned before their Host, and God gave the victory. For there were taken, burnt, and sunk of the Turkish Galleys, Galiots and Brygandines 230. There were slain of the Turks 30. thousand, beside a great number taken prisoners: and about xiiii. thousand Christians that had been kept in loathsome captivity, were set at liberty, breaking their chains to be revenged of their extreme slavery, to help the Christians when the Turkish side began to go to wreck. The chief brunt of this conflict was upon the 6. day of October, and lasted four hours, but the slaughter and chase continued all day from morning till night, insomuch that the Sea seemed red with blood: for none escaped thence alive saving 40. Galleys which fled at the first beginning. The Christians lost seven Galleys and were slain between the number of vi. or seven. thousand.  
The wind and Sun was on the backs of the Christians, and full in the faces of the Turks, which greatly helped them at this pinch, and furthermore the Stems of the Turks Galleys were so high, that they overshot our men, which made them to vasten to grappling & there beside a great sort of janyzaries and common Turks, their Bassa was slain.  
This year the seventh of October, the noble and valiant Prince Don john De Austria with 105 Galleys and 40. great Ships was sent by Phylip King of Spain to take and set order in the kingdom of Tunice, where was great ruffling and hurly burly for the State. He therefore taking Ship at javagnana, had the wind so favourable, that by noon the next day he arrived at Goletta. Afterwards there followed and came to him Marcellus Auria with 29. well trimmed Foists, and the Duke of Sessia with 14. of the Pope's galleys. The Turks in Tunice for dread of his puissance (whom to their cost not long before they had tried) fled out of Tunice, some to Caravana and 400. of them to Bisana, sometime called Utica: whom the Bisanes would not receive nor secure: whereupon after many hot words on either party, they fell together by the ears among themselves. The Bisanes (to be the stronger in that byckeringe) unclogged and unchained 150. Christian Prisoners whom the Turks had used for Gallye Slaves, and them furnished with Weapon and armure. By whose help and mean specially, the Bisanes got the upperhand and slew many of the Turks. Which done, Don john (having the goodwill of the Townsmen) sent thither Sig. Salazara the Spaniarde, to take possession of the Town, and to swear the A●●habitauntes to be true obedient Subjects to King Philip. Then landing his Army within four miles of Tunice, he sent 2500. Footmen to the city, where they found no body to resist them but only 200 Moors in the Castle, who said that they kept the same to the use of Amidas their King. Whom Don john sent Prisoner with his Wife and Children into Sicily, because he had been cause of great discord and faction in that Country, and (dispossessing the lawful heirs thereof) had violently usurped the same and procured the Turks to come thither. In whose room be appointed young Muleasses, who swore to be true Vassal unto King Phylip and to hold his Crown of him by Homage, whom the citizens with a goodly peal of Ordinance received & gladly seemed to admit for their Sovereign. Over the Castle or chief Fort of the City he appointed. Sig. Serbellane Captain.  
The iiij. of February 200 footmen and 150 Horsemen of the Garrison of the said Sig. Serbellan, joining also unto them for help 4000 Moors, issued out of their. Fort and encountered with 1500 Turks and 3000 Arabians, which rob and spoiled the goods of the Tunicians and grievously molested them. In which conflict, the false hearted moors revolting and refusing to fight, there was taken 150 Christians and two Guns.  
Still the Turks stamping and staring for rage to see the spaniards bear rule and authority in those quarters, privily in the night the 21 of February surprised Canisum, kill therein and slaying above a thousand persons, and after they had utterly burnt the town even to the Castle gate, they retired back whence they came. The Garrison in the Castle to their great grief all this while beholding this outrageous dealing, & durst not once adventure to cope with them for frare of losing all, because they were in number far fewer their they.  
This year the Venetians entered into league with Selyme the Great Turk, for confirmation whereof, they sent Sig. Francisco Barbero to Constantinople, the conditions whereof were, that either party should still keep & enjoy so much as they had already in their several possessions, saving that the Venetians promised the delivery of Sapotum and resignation of all their title in the Fort of xemenicum into the Turks hands: and again, the Turk resigned and granted unto them, two miles every way about the Territory of Zara and other their jurisdictions thereabout, and that the Venetians for Dalmatia and certain other pieces about Zara, should yearly answer on certain tribute to the said Turk.  
In March this year the Moors whom Don john de Austria permitted upon their humble suit still to inhabit in Tunyce, by the egging and procurement of Radamane Viceroy of Algiera, entered into conspiracy and devise, how to surprise and win the new Fort that the Spaniards had there lately made, against whom Salazara was commanded by Sig. Serbellane to go with a thousand footmen, which put the Moorish Drudges to flight, and slew of them 1200.  
Three Ships were sent to Charles the ix. King of France, laden with great Horses, Lions, Lyberds, and other Presents. Which colourable courtesy under the cloak of glozing flattery, it is thought the Turk used, the rather to obtain the kings goodwill and consent that he might winter his Galleys in the Port Tolonensis. But hearing that the King was departed this life before their coming, one of them returned to Constantinople with speed, to intimate to the Turk their Master, the French kings death, and further to know his pleasure what they should do.  
In june the Emperor and the Turk concluded a peace for five years to come.  
In Iul●e, 300 Turks landing in Calabria to fetch fresh water and filch some other booties, were snatched up every one and either slain or taken.  
Upon the Seas about Tunyce were seen 350 Sail of the Turks, whose intent and meaning was (as very shortly after they brought it to pass) to recover and win the new Fort which Sarraglion builded, together with Goletta and other Pieces there. With whom also a mighty rabblement of traitorous Moors about Algiera, Tripoli & Zerbite joined side: which dispossessed thence the Spanish garrisons, to the great furtherance of their devilish purposes a●d to the lamentable grief of all Christendom, considering what a small way they have from thence into Spain & so into the rest of other Christian Realms, unless the good and gracious providence of our God quales●e and as with a Snaffle rain this raging Beast and bloody Tyrant, the common robber of all the world from further invasion, which he graciously grant for his mercy sake through the mediation of his Son Christ our Lord and only Saviour Amen.   
FINIS.   

 

  

  

   

❧ IMPRINTED AT London by William How, for Abraham veal, dwelling in Paul's Churchyard, at the sign of the Lamb. 1575.