Four Paradoxes, or politic Discourses. 2 Concerning Military Discipline, written long since by Thomas Digges Esquire. 2 Of the worthiness of war and warriors, by Dudley Digges, his son. All newly published to keep those that will read them, as they did them that wrote them, from idleness.  Horace. 
Me castra iwant & lituo tubae  
Permistus sonitus, bellaque matribus  
Detestata.  
Imprinted at London by H. Lownes, for Clement Knight, and are to be sold at his shop at the Sign of the holy Lamb in Saint Paul's Churchyard. 1604.   

To the Honourable THEOPHILUS HOWARD, Lord HOWARD of Walden, son and heir apparent to the Right Honourable Earl of Suffolk, Lord Chamberlain to his Majesty.  
A General report (worthy Lord) of your honourable disposition bred in me even at my first coming into France, an earnest desire to see you, which through your courtesy & my good fortune was happily effected: But when I perceived with what virtuous industry you endeavoured to make the best use, of your well spent time, in those parts; I conceived great hope to receive much greater contentment, in so truly honourable acquaintance, and the taste I had of your favours assureth me I had been happy in my hopes, had not my untimely return, such were my unfortunate crosses, deprived me of the comfort I took, in the company of your admired virtue. Notwithstanding I have hitherto fed myself with the hope of your return etc. Hoc equidem occasum Troiae tristesque ruinas solabor, this shall be my refuge. In the mean time as Lewes of France did his country friends rape root, or as the Percian King did the poor man's Apple, I entreat your Lordship to accept these sleight discourses as a token of the dutiful respect I owe you: They are I know most unworthy your Maiden patronage, yet my first fruits they be, and I earnestly desire, that my first borne should bear your honour's Name.  
Your honours devoted Dudley Digges.   

To the Reader.  
THat there are many faults in these few leaves I doubt not, neither would I but you should find fault, yet not maliciously with wrested and unnatural applications, yet not too peremptorily till you have children of your own: only this, if you be such a Merchant as hateth a Soldier, think it no victory to pick matter of advantage out of my weak handling of their good cause: If on the contrary you love the profession, take in good part these slight endeavours, till some one of better ability speak more effectually, and let this public protestation assure you I am no dissembler, but one that heartily desireth to show himself a loving countryman to men that so well deserve the love of their Country.  
Farewell.   

The First Paradox.  
That no Prince, or State doth gain, or save by giving too small entertainment unto Soldiers, Officers, or Commanders Martial: but do thereby extremely loose, and unprofitably waste their Treasure, besides the dishonour and foils, that necessarily thereof ensue.  
I Confess sparing of Treasure, and all due providence for the preservation thereof, to be a thing very necessary, especially in the wars of this our age, where treasure is indeed become Neruus Belli; and therefore by all reasonable provisions to be regarded. But there are in all actions some sparings, or pretence of profit, that are utterly unprofitable, fond, and foolish, and working effects clean contrary to that end, for the which such pinching is pretended. As, who seeth not, that, if a husbandman (that hath first allotted a reasonable proportion of grain, for every Acre of his arable ground) shall (of a covetous mind) abate a quarter, or one third part of his due proportion of seed, thinking thereby to save somuch; who, (I say) seeth not, that by this foolish saving in the seed, in the crop he shall lose thrice as much, besides the hurtful Weeds, that, for want of seed sufficient, grow-up, and spoil the rest? Or, if a Merchant, setting forth his Ship to the seas, fraught with Merchandise, shall know that (to rig her well, and furnish her with all needful Tackle, furniture and provision) it will cost him full 500 pounds: Yet, of a covetous and greedy mind to save thereof some 100 pounds, or two, he shall scant his provision, wanting perhaps some Cables, Ankers, or other-like necessaries, and after (by a Storm arising) for fault thereof shall lose both Ship and goods. Who will not condemn this miserable foolish Merchant, that (peevishly to save one hundred pounds, or two) hath lost both ship and goods, perhaps of 10. times greater value? Much more is the folly of this error in Martial causes, where the Tempests are as sudden, and no less perilous. And therefore such fond sparing, is far more absurd in these Actions, than in either of those, of the Husbandman or Merchant. For proof whereof, if I should produce antic Examples out of the Roman and Grecian Chronicles of such Kings and Princes, as (by such fond sparing of their Treasure) had lost both their Treasure, and their Kingdoms also, I could easily make of this subject a great volume: but for brevity sake (leaving many Antiquys) I come to our present age and time, and to matters of our own Remembrance, and Experience. For who knoweth not, What course the States of the United Provinces took, for payment of their soldiers, before the arrival of her majesties Lord General, the Earl of Leicester. Who, for sparing, or to make (as they pretended) their treasure stretch, did pay their Bands after 48. days to the month, their pay being so scant and bare at 30. only to the month, as it was very hard for soldiers, or Captains, to live honestly upon it: And the same being now stretched to 48. days, utterly impossible for them to live without Frauds in Musters, and pickories, beside on their Country and friends. Hereof it came to pass, that the honest, and valiantest men retired themselves from the wars, and the worst disposed Freebooters were readiest to enter with these base conditions. For such a Captain (as intendeth only dishonestly, by Fraud and Robbery to enrich himself, to the ruin of his Country) will especially desire to serve on such base conditions, as honestly it is impossible for every man to live upon: And so having just colour thereby to shift, hath all these means ensuing infinitely to enrich himself.  
First, (in the choice of his officers) to get, or accept such Freebooters and thieves, as (only to have the name and privilege of a soldier, to escape the pain due by Martial law to such unsouldierlike persons) will serve without pay, or with half pay.  
Then, every of these his officers Lieutenant, ensign, sergeant &c. (being men of that Crew) will draw in as many also as they can of the same Mould, to live on pickorie without pay, and therefore very ready to serve in their loose manner with half pay. Of such rakehells then the Captain having razed an Ensign, passeth his Muster, and is sent to his Garrison, or place of Service.  
Now, the Prince or State that is served with such as will accept these unhonest base conditions, is much deceived, if he think to be soldierly served. Viz. To have their Watches and Wards strong, vigilant, and careful: For in steed of one thousand five hundredth soldiers past in Muster, they shall never find fifty on Guard, or Sentinels, upon any Round: As all honest sergeant-majors, and other officers (that have past their Rounds) can testify: The rest (if he keep any more) being either abroad in the country at the Picoree, or in the garrison more unhonestly occupied, in abusing some honest Burgher his wife or servants: (for, to drudge in watch or ward the gallantest of this crew disdain.) If any faults be complained off, the excuse is ready: Alas their pay is so small, as we must wink at faults.  
But if at any time the Commissary of Musters come with treasure to pass a Muster, ye shall ever find them strong 150. present and absent orderly set down in Muster Rolls. And for their Absents such formal Testimonials, Protestations, and oaths, as among Christians were horrible to discredit, and their frauds so artificially conveyed, as will be hard to try: But the truth is, Forgery & Perjury are the first lessons such Freeboters learn, and then Pallardize, Murder, Treachery, and Treason are their Attendants. Hereof it came to pass (for many years together) that after the death of Don john de Austria, the States lost such a number of Cities, Towns, Forts, Castles and Sconces, yea whole and entire Provinces revolted from them, by reason of the exextorsions, oppressions, & robberies insolently committed on the Country people, and best Subjects, by these insatiable Cormorants, Lions to their friends, and Hares in presence of their enemies, having not only, Linguas sed animas venales, manus rapaces, pedes fugaces, & quae honestè nominari non possunt inhonestissima, verè Galeati Lepores et Hyrudines Aerarij. And this base beggarly pay the only ground-plot of all these horrible villainies, odious to God and man, and not tolerable in any Christian Government.  
For, if Princes or States will give such convenient pay, as men of value, and honesty may sparingly live-on without fraud and robbery, they may boldly execute Martial discipline, & purge their Army of these idle Drones, and carousing picking Caterpillars: And in stead of these, they shall (in short time) have their Ensigns complete with valiant, honest, sober, loyal soldiers, that shall carefully and painfully in watch and ward execute their Martial duties.  
The Earl of Leicester with his own eyes beheld before Zutphen camp nigh Arnhem two or three Regiments of Scots and Dutch in the States pay, sent for by Count Hollock as the most choice bands that followed him, having sixteen or eighteen Ensigns in their Regiments, and paid for nigh three thousand soldiers: That (marching in rank, and after embattled) were found not full one thousand, besides their officers.  
Now, if the States had paid truly but 10 Ensigns after 30. days to the month, (as her Majesty did) and by Martial discipline have kept them strong, they should have had 500 more heads and hands to fight at least in such 10. than in these 18 Ensigns paid after 48. days. And at the very same time, & the same place his Excellency saw eight English Ensigns embattled in the same Field, that for heads of men were more than 16. of the other Ensigns, and for Arms & weapon full double so strong: And yet these eight Ensigns stood not her Majesty (paying honourably) in somuch as the other 18. so dishonourably paid by the States, by many thousand Gilders a month.  
Most foolish therefore, and peevish is such saving in these Martial causes, being more absurd far and fond than other of those my first Examples of the paltering Husbandman or miserable Merchant that stumbleth at a straw, and swalloweth a block, and by greedy pinching for a penny, fond looseth or wasteth pounds.  
But that dishonour that falleth out in these actions is much more to be respected: For, if eight Ensigns (well and truly paid) shall ever be stronger in all Martial encounters than 18. of the other: how much more honour shall it be with eight Ensigns to have performed any honourable action than to have done the same with eighteen? As chose the foil, to lose eight Ensigns is far less than to lose eighteen.  
Again, if the States had razed a mean Army (not of such Mercenary vagabonds as would serve on any conditions, resolving by pickorie and extortion to enrich themselves) but of temperate, honest, painful, valiant soldiers which full easily with sufficient and complete pay they might have done, and then have kept a steady hand on Martial discipline, severely to have punished such cormorants as should any way have spoiled or extorted on the country Booer, or honest Burgher. They had never tasted those horrible Ruins of their towns and desolation of their countries, that afterwards for many years they did. For it was not the great Subsidies or Levies made on Brabant, and Flaunders, and other upland Provinces by the States united that made them all revolt afterward to the Prince of Parma, but only these abuses, spoils and pickories. For in Holland and Zealand they have ever since, and do still levy as great and far greater contributions than ever they did on those malcontented Provinces: But it was the wrongs, injuries, Insolencies and extortions committed by this crew of degenerate bastardly soldiers or rather pickens, the servants or rather idolatrous slaves of their misbegotten Mistress Madam Picorea that alienated the hearts utterly of these Provinces. The people having reason to revolt to the government of Papists or Turks rather than to endure the outrages committed on them, their wives and daughters by those their own hirelings so deeply wounding them in wealth and honour. For what Tribute, Subsidy or Task had not been far more tolerable to any honest or Christian people than to have such a crew of hellhounds laid upon them? As, not content to have the best chambers, beds, and fare that their host could yield them; yea wine also bought and far fet for them, but would enforce them to pay money also, and yet at their parting (in recompense or their good Entertainment) rifle them of all that was portable of any value, besides other indignities not to be spoken of by honest tongues, or heard by modest ears. The horror of these villains hath made Holland wisely and providently these dozen years and more yearly to give ten fold greater contributions (yearly I say respectively weighed) than the greatest Subsidy or benevolence that ever our Nation gave during all these 34. years of her majesties most gracious and happy Reign. The which they do most frankly and willingly still continue to maintain the wars out of the bowels of their own country, and to free themselves of those horrible oppressions which they saw executed among their Neighbours, which wise Resolution of theirs God hath also so favoured and blessed with extraordinary aids and favours many ways, as these of Holland are not the poorer, but rather much richer than they were before the wars began, Notwithstanding their huge contributions are such, as in common reason a man would think were able to beggar any mighty Kingdom: That little country of Holland only (being for scope of ground and firm land not comparable with the least of any one of many Shires in England) yieldeth to the wars yearly a greater contribution than half the fifty Shires of England ever yet did in any one year by any Subsidy. It is not therefore the great charges or contributions that beggereth or spoileth any country, but the ill disposing of the Treasure levied, and the ill government of the soldiery therewith maintained, which becometh indeed more odious and intolerable to any Christian Nation or people far, than any Tax or Subsidy that is possible to be cessed or imposed on them: Neither is it the multitude of Ensigns that terrifieth the Enemy, but choice election of the Soldiery, and the true execution of Martial discipline.  
Hereof it hath come to pass that so small handfuls of Spaniards (while they were well paid & discipline) did at sundry times foil so many Ensigns of these Mercenary Freeboters: And chose after those Spaniards fell to mutinies (for want of pay) and to committing of like extorsisions and insolencies on the Country people, they caused a sudden revolt of all the Provinces.  
But for our own Nation I hold it a Maxim most assured, and hardly by any one Example, to be disproved: That ever we received any foil where our Ensigns were complete, but only in such places, and at such times, as our Ensigns were maintained (not like the eight Ensigns before mentioned in the Earl of Leicester's time in her majesties pay) but rather as the other eight in the States pay, as will be found too too true, if it be deeply examined.  
The like I say in pay of Officers and superior Commanders, that to give them honourable and convenient entertainment is not only not unprofitable, but most profitable and gainful to any King, Prince, or State: And the contrary (I mean by accepting or admitting such Commanders or Officers as will offer themselves to serve for small or base entertainment) is a thing unto the King or State not only dishonourable, and most hurtful (in respect of the sevice) but also even in regard of their Treasure only most unprofitable, damageable, and discommodious, as I will prove by manifest and true reasons.  
But because the Discourse would be overlong & tedious, if I should particularly enter into the office or charge of every several kind of Officer or Commander, I will only choose two, of either sort one, which (to conjecture and discern of all the rest) may abundantly suffice to prove my present Proposition.  
Among Commanders therefore I will only entreat of the Colonel or Maestro del Campo. And among chief Officers of the controller, Censor, or Muster Master General.  
And first of Colonels I say, if they take upon them that charge to command any convenient number of Ensigns appropriate to their Regiment, it is fit their entertainment be proportional to their reputation and charge: The which as it far surmounteth a private Captain, so ought his allowance to be accordingly, as well for maintenance of a convenient Table, to entertain the chief officers of his regiment. As chiefly such gentlemen of value as many times (without charge or office to see the wars upon their own private expenses) will follow him.  
For if this Colonel, have not such entertainment from his Prince or State, he must of necessity either spoil or undo himself to maintain that port is fit, which few in these days will, or for remedy help himself by tolerating frauds in Musters, and suffering the Captains of his Regiment to keep their bands half empty: Out of the which both Captains and Colonel may pay themselves double and treble the greatest entertainment that ever any King yet gave, but not without the very ruin and utter dishonour of their Nation.  
For what Captain is there so foolish miserable, (if he make no conscience to gain by robbing of his Prince or State;) that will not be content to give one half of these his foul and corrupt gains, to enjoy the other? Knowing otherwise he shall not only quite loose that base gain, if he be called to account for it, but his reputation and life also, if justice be duly executed. But if by his chief Colonels favour, he may be paid for 150. and keep scarce 60. to defend his Ensign, and so gain a thousand pounds a year clear, to give the moiety yearly thereof to go scotfree with the rest, and escape the shame thereunto due, he maketh a very profitable bargain if such dishonest lucre deserve the name of profit, which course of gain is so much the more damnable and perilous to be suffered, because it utterly discourageth the honest valiant Captains, and enricheth the contrary: And so tendeth to the very Ruin and overtherthrow of all true virtue and value.  
For if the chief Commander be so affected as he will be by any such device to supply his wants: In very gratitude and policy he must most countenance those that yield him most benefit: And those Captains may be most beneficial to him, that (by keeping their Bands most feeble) do most rob their Prince or State. And so the worst persons (of such Commanders) must of force be most favoured and countenanced.  
Farther these Favourites if they commit any other extortions on their Countrymen, Friends, or Allies, being entered into such a League with their Commanders, it is likely they may find the more Favour also, and thereby more boldly by all devices and extortions rake-in Wealth to maintain themselves, their patrons, and Followers in excessive bravery.  
Whereas the right valiant Captain indeed, that (keeping his Band strong and complete with armed soldiers, gaining nothing above his bare Wages, nor will extort unhonestly upon any Friend or Ally, and his wages (besides his meat and Arms) scarcely sufficient twice in a year to buy him a Suit of Buff) Remaineth as a Man contemned and disgraced: Where the other by his Robberies and pickories can flourish in Monthly change of suits of silk, daubed with Embroideries of gold and silver lace, and jewels also: And so countenanced by such Commanders Favour, and by such other mighty Friends as his spoils may procure. That 〈…〉 road and at home also generally this picking, 〈…〉 rousing Freebooter shall be called a brave 〈…〉 ●●llant soldier, yea Fit to be a Colonel or great ●●●●ander that can drink, and dice etc., with the proudest: When the true, valiant, honest, and right Martial Captain indeed is not able in such riotous Expenses to keep port with the others waiting Servants.  
But whether these silken, golden, embroidered delicate Captains (with their demi feeble Ensigns) Or the other plain leather, well armed, sober, painful, valiant Captains (with their complete Ensigns of armed soldiers maintained as their companions) shall do their Prince or Country more honour at a day of Service? If we have not yet learned, we shall I doubt hereafter, if these abuses be not reform, with the dishonourable loss of many more English Ensigns, than all the Chronicles these 500 years before could tell us of, to remain for an unhonourable monument of these our errors, to all posterity.  
For I have ever found it in my experience a Rule almost infallible among private Captains: The more brave and gallant the Captain is in his apparel, and Wasteful in Expenses, the more poor, feeble, weak and miserable ye shall for the most part find his soldiers full of louse many times, & stinking for want of a shirt to change them, when such Commanders with some few Favourites are over sweet and fine.  
And then is it any Marvel if so brave and gallant a Gentleman (perfumed perhaps with Musk and Syvet) disdain to haunt the filthy Corpse du guards of ragged, loathsome, lousy soldiers? Or is it any marvel then, (where Captains give this Example:) If Lieutenants & Ensigns also do take their ease, and living in like delicacy, disdain to associate themselves with their poor flocks.  
If Towns of great Importance have been lost by the cowardice of some one Corpses du guard, that beastly have abandoned without blows, a ground of such advantage as was defensible against any Royal Army: Only, because at the approach thereof, there was neither Captain, Lieutenant nor Ensign present on the guard, but a knot only of these poor Ghosts: And thereby dishonourably a town of great Importance lost, very experience (me thinks) should teach us rather to choose such Captains as would so apparel themselves, and regard their fellow-soldiers, as they should not disdain their company, or abhor their stink.  
I have read, that a worthy General of the Grecians, after he had with a small Army of valiant, rude, plain, sober, obedient soldiers conquered ten times as many of the rich, silken, golden, riotous perfumed Persians, abounding with horses and chariots and Armours of gold, because (quoth he) the Persians were so delicately and daintily bred, as they were not able to abide the savour of my soldiers armholes.  
I would therefore wish no Captains chosen but such as should contemn utterly such feminine delicacy in apparel and wasteful riotous expenses, and could be content to make himself a companion of his fellow soldiers, and think his honour consisted (not in gay garments) but in good Arms, in the strength of his band, in his travels, pains, watchings, and adventures, and not in carousing or perfuming, or any other delicious, idle, or rather effeminate unmanly vanity. For as Marius the Roman General averred: Munditias mulieribus, viris laborem convenire: So, if Soldiers and Captains would contend one to excel another therein, (I mean in Military labours and careful adventurous endeavours, contemning all delicious pomps and idle ease, as effeminate and unworthy their professions) then should we see a great alteration, both of the fortune and fame of our Nation which heretofore hath ever been comparable with the best and most renowned.  
But the only or chief means to bring this to pass, is, first to allow unto the General and chief Commanders so honourable and convenient Entertainment, as may suffice to maintain the port and honour of their place, without practising or consenting to any corruptions, especially such as utterly disgrace the good, and enrich the bad, deface the painful, careful, sober, valiant Captain, and advance the idle, negligent, riotous coward. But above all things to have him detested more than a coward, that (of a base corrupt mind) shall seek to make his gain by keeping his band feeble and weak, and by deceits, fraud and perjuries at Musters to contrive the same: For by this means he doth not only rob his Prince's treasure, but is also guilty of the blood of those soldiers that are slain for want of hands to fight when the honour of their Nation comes to trial.  
As all true Martial Discipline therefore is not to be revived and put in execution among our Nation: So especially that part which concerneth this mighty and gross abuse (above all other) ought most severely to be regarded. And to the end Officers of Musters may by the General or chief Governors be countenanced in their honest proceedings (for discovery and correction of such abominable frauds and Robberies as so usually and shamelessly have been practised) I would wish their own particular bands (where they have any) should alway be allowed them without check, for any default: presuming in honour they would be the more careful to be an example to other, when they shall see themselves by their Prince so trusted. And then having less cause (in respect of their private profit) to favour any such deceit in others, there is no doubt, but (having also honourable entertainment) they will (as they are by a double duty bound) honourably advance that course of discipline which shall make their Armies victorious, themselves famous, and their Country felicious; especially if due regard be had in the choice of such chief and principal Commanders, who ought indeed to be honourable and not base minded persons.  
And as good trees are not judged by the blossoms, but by the fruits: So surely are men rather by their deeds than by shows or partial Fame to be discerned: For, as in all other vocations, so chiefly in the wars by common Fame such Commanders ever shall be most extolled of their Followers, as most content their humours. Now if captains humours in this age of corruption, be for the greater part infected or depraved, to make choice yet by common fame or opinion, should be an error exceeding great: For as in the pestilent Fevers & like violent diseases, the Patient many times doth far better like that Physician which suffereth him to take cold liquors, & other pleasing fancies, agreeable to his appetite, which as very poisons do cause his death, than such a Physician as prescribeth a severe diet, accompanied with such bitter Medicines as only is able to save his life, and restore his health and strength. And as the error therein were great to choose a Physician after such sick-men's appetites: so surely for reformation of these Martial diseases, the error were no less absurd at the beginning, to choose such Generals or chief Commanders by common Fame, or liking of most Captains. But after Martial discipline is again in some good measure restored, & that Captains begin to detest riotous expenses in meat, drink, and apparel (as effeminate delicacy) and contend who may exceed other in labour, pains, watchings, diligence, and virtuous Martial Actions, having a right taste and sense in deed of true honour and Martial valour, and wherein the same consisteth, and by some convenient continuance of Exercise and use made the same not grievous but familiar unto them: Then were there no more compotent judges (of the ability and sufficiency of a General,) than such, as (adventuring their lives with him) have greatest need and use thereof.  
But as that famous General and Censor Cato at Rome exclaimed in his time, The public had need of a sharp and merciless Physician, and a violent purgation: And that therefore they were to choose (not such Commanders as should be grateful and gracious,) but resolute and severe: So surely much more in this time and state of wars have we cause to proclaim such choice, or rather great Princes and Magistrates to have especial care and regard thereof.  
Now therefore if the Colonel or chief Commander be chosen such an honourable person, as of himself abhors deceit, fear God, contemn gormandize and quaffing, and other more base and beastly pleasures, or effeminate delicacies, by the example of many worthy Roman Generals, as also of that famous victorious Lacedaemonian General King Agesilaus, it shall be easy for him (having convenient and honourable pay) to banish these Monsters out of his Camp or government, as unworthy for Soldiers professing Arms, & fitter for the pompous rich slaves of Persia.  
But if chose any chief Commanders be persons that will wink at deceits or frauds in Musters, and make their profit (as infinitely they may thereby) no wonder if all the inferior Captains insolently put the same in execution, and keep their Counsels and ordinary Consultations how to exploit and execute those deceits, and by all unhonest practices, slanders, and libels, etc., to disgrace any Officer that shall oppose himself dutifully against it: And so their Bands continued ever feeble, weak, and miserable.  
Or if this Colonel or chief Commander be a person that hath no compassion on the poor private Soldiers, nor care to preserve and maintain their lives, but rather (respecting how largely he may make his gain by their deaths (expose them to the Butchery, ye shall presently have almost all the Captains regard them less than dogs.  
Or if the Colonel or General (forgetting that right Lacedaemonian law, that whosoever did save his life by flight in the field, was infamous ever after even to his grave) do take so little shame (of running away in the field) as he will have for himself a horse of swift career alway in readiness upon any danger to take his leave: What marvel if ye have inferior Captains provided for the like? Yea many times Lieutenants, and Ensigns also? And what is then to be expected, but dishonourable flight, shame and confusion, whensoever they are roundly charged by any soldiers?  
If the Colonel or chief Commander be a man, that (regarding wholly his profit) will wink at the extortions of his Captains, they have reason to spare him half their pay, or all their Imprestes, for that they can full easily (from the Booer or Burgher under their crushing) extort much more than the greatest pay any Christian King yet gave, and thereby so enrich themselves with Gold and jewels, as they have no reason any more to hazard their life, but to provide themselves good horses to escape away with their wealth whensoever they shallbe charged: Leaving their soldiers to the slaughter, by whose deaths also there may grow a good Dividend, to be shared among such artificial Fugitives.  
If Colonels or chief Commanders of their ease, pleasure or private respects hold it no disgrace or shame to be absent from their Regiments: No marvel if any inferior Captains be ready to follow such discipline also, and consequently all their Favourites and persons best appointed. And then what marvel if the silly Remnant of the feeble flock (having scarcely Shepherd or Shepherds Dog left to take the care and charge of them) become a prey to the Ravening Wolf, that will not let slip so good an opportunity.  
But if the Colonel or chief Commander himself be such a one as takes no shame in Field to save his life by flight: It is not strange that Captains under his charge should imitate his discipline. And then much less reason have private soldiers to stand so much upon their honour, or rather to die than turn their face. But if such indeed be the true profession of a soldier rather to die reasolutely in his rank, than turn his face, or cowardly by flight to save his life. If this be the duty of the meanest and most private soldier, then how much rather is the Captain, and much more the Colonel bound to such an honourable Resolution?  
If in the most honourable and Martial Nations of the World, Such cowardice in a private soldier hath been noted with perpetual shame, how much more ought it to be detested in Captains? And then à fortiori in their Superiors.  
But if by corrupt custom and education in licentious loose wars, such principal persons be grown so far past Shame, as not only to commit these base and unsouldierlike errors, but also (that most miserable is) in their ordinary Discourses and banquets amids their Sacrifices to Bacchus at open Tables to vaunt of these their Stratagems, Recounting in how many Encounters, the places where, and when they fled gallantly, and spurred their horses in their Violent Retreits, who might run swiftest: What shall we say but that such degenerate shameless persons might (with much better reason) vant how many Bastinadoes they had received bravely?  
For surely cowardice in a Man (especially professing Arms) hath ever been accounted the foulest vice: As Incontinency the greatest dishonesty in a woman. And as an honest woman may fortune by violence to be abused, and yet all her life time after cannot but blush to have it spoken of: So though an honest man (I mean a valiant man in the Field) by violence and multitude of Enemies unhappily should be enforced to turn his face: Yet ashamed should he be ever to hear it spoken of. But as that State were horribly wicked where women should advant openly of their Incontinency: So, desperate is their disease that are so far past shame to advant of their cowardice: And miserable that State must needs become, where such impudence should be tolerable for men professing Arms shamelessly to vaunt of their fearful flights, or as they are termed in their new Discipline, Their violent retraitz.  
But (that most lamentable is) many times it may come to pass, that these impudent Runaways being escaped (consorting themselves) shall by Rumours, letters, or printed Pamphlets perhaps sometimes disgrace those valiant men that resolutely died in the place, rather than they would shame themselves, and dishonour their country with a cowardly flight. And then such Fugitives (extolling one another with Heroical names, having also by their former pikories store of crowns to purchase friends, by such Thrasonical Stratagems) of the ignorant multitude be counted gallant soldiers, and fit for new employments. An error of all other the most dangerous: That (contrary to all Martial discipline) that fault that deserveth death or dishonourable disarming under a Gallows, should be honoured with new employments, or greater credit.  
But as the disgrace of a few Ringleaders of Runaways and other corruptions would wonderfully repair the honour of any Nation: So the toleration of them, and much more the employing of them again in new charges by their Example may breed effects most dangerous and fearful, if in time (by due execution of right Martial discipline) such weeds be not eradicate.  
The Lacedæmonians (by due obedience to their Martial laws) were become the most mighty and puissant State of all the Grecians, which then for Heroical prowess surmounted all the world beside, as by the multitude of their victories on the Oriental Nations, and asiatical mighty Empires is apparent: Whose huge Armies and innumerable Forces they vanquished in a number of Battles with a very few, but choice, painful, sober, well trained and disciplined Bands, being accustomed from their infancy to travail, pains, sobriety, and hardness. And by the same custom and education learned also with all duty to obey their Superiors, Reverence the Elders, and to fear nothing but shame and infamy: And of all infamies none so great to a man there as cowardice, being by their very laws noted with disgrace perpetual to his death that ran away from his Enemies in the field, or saved his life by flight: Which fault was held so soul and base, as the very Mothers abhorred and renounced them, yea and some with their own hands have killed such of their sons as by flight in the field have saved their lives, as Traitors to their country, and dishonourable to their parents: Yea they were disgraded from all honour and employment, marked by shaving of half their heads and beards, derided and disdained of all their countrymen, and lawful for all men to abuse and beat them as serviceable Slaves. These were the shames ordained for Fugitives in those warlike Nations. Whereupon a King of theirs being demanded how it came to pass that the Lacedæmonians so far excelled all others in prowess and arms? Because (quoth he) they are taught from their infancy not to fear death, but shame. As Marius also that famous Roman General said of himself, he had learned to fear nothing but Infamy. They therefore that by education in lawless wars grow so impudent as to vaunt of their foils and flights (which by true Martial laws, especially in leaders and Commanders should be noted and punished with perpetual shame) are so far of from true Soldiery, and Martial honour as they are fitter (like most dangerous contagious sheep) to be expelled & severed in time, lest they infect with their leprosy the whole troop & Military flock: howsoever the corruptions of this age & ignorance of the dangers that ensue by contempt of true Martial honour may excuse or delay their due punishment or shame for a time. For if a chief Commander shall neither blush to save himself by flight, nor corruptly to make his gain by the death of his poor Soldiers through Frauds, perjury, and deceit in Musters: his readiest plot to grow rich and puissant is, presently so soon as he can finger his soldiers pay, or Prince's Treasure, To devise some desperate unfeasible Service, where he may bring his Fantery to have their throats cut, and then having choice horses to save himself by flight, and his confederate Favourites with the pay of the dead, they may banquet and riot their fill, and have so great Masses of Treasure to make friends, as none of these Tragedies can come to unripping, if once it be persuaded lawful or intolerable for a General or chief Commanders to save themselves by flight.  
But the tollaration thereof and of these Frauds and abuses in Musters, and the immeasurable sweet gains that bad consciences see they may make thereby (if they can also shake of shame, and extinguish true Martial discipline) is the chiefest ●● use of all base and dishonourable corruptions, and will still increase such impudence and insolency as corrupt persons by sufferance will grow unto: Which ought so much the more severely and speedily with the sword of justice and true Military Laws in time to be corrected, as the continuance doth make the disease more desperate and perilous to their State, and more hard to be recured, when wealthy wickedness thereby getteth such authority and purchaseth such parties, as after by justice shall hardly be suppressed, unless the Sovereign Majesty or ephors of the State in time I say minister the bitter Medicine, that only must cure this pestilent and contagious sickness.  
For if Demetria of Sparta with her own hands killed (for cowardice) her son Demetrien as a degenerate Monster not worthy to be called a Lacedaemonian or to walk on the earth, being (as she said) a monument dishonourable to his country and parents, and the like done by divers other Ladies and worthy Women of that State to their own children, for abandoning only of their Rank, to save their lives when they were forced with violence and Multitudes of their Enemies: What could these worthy women have done to such sons as premeditately before hand provided them horses of swift carrier to save themselves, so soon as they shall find any danger growing. Or if this fault of Flying or abandoning their Rank only hath been in a private soldier so abhorred, as his own Mother hath executed Martial justice upon him, with detestation of his cowardice as unworthy to drink of the River Eurotas, or to bear the name of a Lacedaemonian: How much more is the same to be detested in a Commander, On whose error or cowardice the lives of so many as are under his charge dependeth, besides the dishonour of his Nation?  
Or if that fault could receive in that Martial Nation no excuse, though they were enforced thereto by the violence and Multitude of their enemies: How much more abominable is it in them that of purpose before hand are provided of their means to run away and abandon those for whose safety it were their duty to sacrifice their lives? And by leaving their soldiers to the butchery, to make their excessive gains by the pays of the dead and Robbery of their Prince and Country. If so many worthy Generals both greeks and Romans (that full easily at sundry battles might have escaped and saved their own lives) have refused utterly both horses and all other means offered them to save themselves, and chosen rather (when all hope was past) to sacrifice their lives among their troops, than to return to yield a dishonourable account of the blood of their soldiers: How much more should we abhor such as not only commit these base errors, but impudently also are not ashamed to make their vaunts thereof?  
If Manlius Torquatus when his son was challenged by a chief Commander on the contrary side, (only because without leave he did accept the particular Combat, although he had the Victory, and struck of his Enemy's head in sight of both Armies) would nevertheless have executed the Martial law upon his valiant Son (Only) because he broke one point of Martial discipline: What reward do we think this General would have bestowed on one of our shameless Fugitives?  
If this famous General so highly respected the honour and safety of his country, as he resolved to execute the laws Martial of this his only and most valiant son: Not for any cowardice or corruption, but only for want of due obedience (in accepting without leave the Combat) choosing rather to deprive himself of his only son and incomparable jewel, than the Martial discipline of his country should in the least point be corrupted. How much more hath the sacred Majesty of a Prince and honourable ephors of any State cause with severity in time to see due execution of Martial justice on such (as not moved by Magnanimity or haughty courage, but chose of a corrupt custom and base mind, for lucre, pleasure, or riot only) commit (premeditately) not one but many of those gross and shameful abuses and breaches of true Martial discipline: That in those days and States the most inferior soldier of an Army for fear of perpetual shame would not: Faults I say so far surmounting this error of the worthy Manlius' son, as the foulest leprosy or pestilent Fever doth the Ephimeris Ague, Tending indeed not only to the robbing of their Prince and public Treasure, and to the spoil and betraying of their fellow soldiers (Men many times of better valour and worth far than such Leaders or superior Commanders) but also to the utter overthrow of all true Martial valour, and dishonour perpetual of their Nation, and smally tending to the utter ruin of their Prince and Country.  
But to pass over infinite honourable Praecedents of Antiquity, to return again to our own Age, I say, That even by experience of the wars, and Nations of our own time it is manifest, that these abuses and corruptions have been the very ruin of the Realms and States where they have been practised, as in time they will be also of all other that shall admit the continuance of them. And first for France that worthy soldier monsieur de la Nôe in the Military Discourses plainly showeth, how with these civil wars these corruptions there began, and by what unlawful Generation Mistress Picorea was at Boygenye first begotten, which bastard in short time had such a Multitude of Servants both in France, and after in the Low-Countries, as they created their mistress a Lady: And that mighty Lady Madam Picorea hath now so many brave servants, (not only among the French and Dutch, but of other Nations also) as it is to be feared they will make her a Queen, to the Ruin of all Kings, Queens and Realms that shall endure her, and not suppress in time both her, and her shameless presumptuous, lewd, licentious servants.  
What extreme misery they have within these thirty years reduced all France unto, we see: What desolation in Flaunders, Brabant, and other base country Provinces, by the Ruins remaining, is manifest. Shall we suffer her and her followers also in our Nation, to see what they can likewise do of England? Absit omen. But the French Proverb saith most truly;  
Qui par son peril est Sage celuy, est Sage malhereux: And, Foelix quem faciunt aliena pericula cautum.  
He telleth of an honourable Execution done by that worthy soldier the Armirall of France in hanging up a Captain & 5 or 6 other chief servants of this basterdly lady Picorea adoring their gallows with their booties, which honourable soldier (Shattillion I mean) he commendeth highly to have been a most fit and meet Physician to cure this Malady: For he was (saith La Nòe) severe and violent, neither could any Favour or vain frivolous excuses take place with him if the party were faulty: Which is indeed the only way to cure it, For it is most fond and vain to imagine that either by verbal persuasions, or printed Laws or proclamations it is possible to cure this fore, but with armed justice some of the Ringleaders must be seized and roughly chastised, to bring a terror upon the rest. For if these mischiefs (saith that worthy Soldier) were like to other crimes, where men (condemned by public Sentence) are quietly content to be led by the Executioner to receive their due, they might full soon be banished. But they fare more like a rough and restive horse, that (being touched with his Rider's spur) lasheth, yerketh, and biteth, and therefore such a jade must roughly and rigorously be corrected and made to know his fault: For if ye spare him or seem to fear him, he will sure unhorsed you, for generally these Military vices are presumptuous. And if they smell you fear them they will brave you: But give them the terror of Laws, and their due punishments severely, and so shall you cure their malady. For most merciful is that rigour, that (by dispatch of four or five) many save the lives of so many hundreds, or rather thousands, and recure such a pestilent contagion as is able in time to subvert the most mighty Realms and Monarchies. When iron is foully kankored, it is not enough to anoint it with oil, but it must be roughly and forcibly scoured and polished, to make it return to his perfect brightness. And if in Pleuresies and other like corrupt exulcerations we have no remedy but to open a vein, and content ourselves to part with many drops of our blood to save the whole body from destruction: So must we be content (though it were with the loss of many such corrupt persons) to recure our Military body from utter confusion: Seeing thereupon dependeth the health or ruin also of the whole politic body of the Realm: For the French have a true Proverb.  
Le Medicin piteux fait une mortelle play  
And most wisely the Poet.  
Obsta principijs, serò Medicinaparatur,  
Cum mala per longas invaluêre moras.  
As France and Flanders both our next Neighbours by their calamities may teach us, where no kind of abuse or corruptions have been practised: Their Bands not 40. for 100 strong. Which kind of Picoree monsieur de la Nôe termeth Desrober enfalquin non pas engentilz homes: But of gentlemen all piciories ought indeed to be detested, as fitter for base minded slaves, than honovable free minded soldiers. But for other extortions and Robberies upon the poor Payzants, Booers, or husbandmen, it were as hard to name any one kind that hath been omitted, as to recite particularly every sort that hath been executed by these insatiable cormorants, whose maw is never full though their gormandize be infinite, besides the defacing of so many goodly Churches and stately Palaces in the country, as by the Remnants of their Ruins is to be seen, and the Ransacking of Villages, Castles, Towns and Cities, and infinite outrages otherwise committed in all places where this misbegotten Ladies servants or filching followers could lay their graceless hands. But seeing the first pretext and colour they had in France to engender this monster, and since in the base countries to foster her, was by reason of want only of convenient pay: Which enforced even the most famous Generals of our time (I mean the Prince of Condee, and the Prince of Orange) at the first to tolerate these cankers, which after wrought the very Ruin, of those States. It is a singular warning to King and Princes that have Realms to command, that not yet so far corrupted, and able to yield maintenance for honest and right Martial soldiers, by no means (for want of convenient wages, stipend, and pay) to give any colour or excuse to this degenerate bastardly kind of Servitors, or rather Pickers, to excuse their corrupt Arts, or Devilish crafts and abuses.  
And for their Subjects of all degrees rather to give double and treble Subsidies yearly to continue an honourable pay, for maintenance of sober, valiant, painful, honest, obedient soldiers in true Martial discipline, than to become a pray to these merciless carousing, degenerate insatiable monsters. And it is to be hoped the present King of France (if God bless him with any obedience of his Subjects (as were to be wished, and his constancy in Religion, and other Heroical virtues meriteth) will no doubt by all due means in his Territories endeavour to procure a Reformation of these horrible disorders, which is yet utterly impossible for him to redress, being in that state, by long continuance grown to a most difficile and hard cure.  
But as the Estates of the united Provinces (by means of such bad pay and collections of corruptions in their martial or rather mercenary Commanders) did also for many years together continually lose by piecemeal a number of strong Forts, Towers, and Provinces in their possessions, being driven almost on every side down into their Marches where they were enforced to implore her majesties present aid to escape their impendent ruin: So, having of late (by honourable Example of her majesties Bands) well reform that their base kind of pay, and in part thereby also their other abuses (which of late years hath crept in among their Enemies) have been able to make head and recover again, many of those important places that before they lost: Repairing thereby somewhat the fault of their former Errors.  
Yet when I persuade to give unto all Colonels and such like chief Commanders such Entertainment as may suffice them contentedly to live, without seeking so much as (by toleration or suffering of Frauds to enrich themselves, or to supply their wants. It is no part of my meaning to have Colonels so commune, or such multitude of needless Officers, as in disorderly wars hath been accustomed. For one Colonel or Maestro del Campo may very well suffice for three or four thousand men, and the contrary is but an abuse and embasing of that name which should not be bestowed but on old soldiers of judgement and experience, able to discharge a place of that importance. And this Officer having (for himself, his martial, his Sergeant Mayor, and other necessary chief Officers of his Regiment) convenient allowance to maintain on honourable Table, the inferior private Captains may and aught to content themselves with meaner port till (by virtue and desert) they be advanced to higher place: And (abhorring all vanity in apparel, and wasteful expenses in base appetites) endeavour themselves by travel, care, good Arms, and training of their companies (in right Martial exercises and exploits in the Field upon their Enemies) to make their value known, and by such Emulation one to excel another, whereby they may be chosen and advanced to higher offices: The private captains place being indeed but the first step toward Martial honour: And therefore not to be accompanied with such pomp, as now is too too usual.  
It may perhaps be replied. So long as men are content to accept these glorious names only (without any charge to their Prince's purses, or craving any increase of pay) it is a small matter to content fantasies with Feathers.  
I answer, it it a matter of far greater consequence than is conceived: For, first it embaseth those degrees of honour which chiefly should allure right Martial minds, and makes them seem vile, when they are so common as they fall to the the lot of persons unworthy such degree, and so grow in contempt; and not affected after by the true honourable minds: Besides wanting maintenance for the due port of that place, they are enforced to be patrons to all or many of those disorders and abuses before mentioned, unless they would choose to undo themselves and friends to maintain it otherwise, which few I think now a days use to do.  
Farther having once taken a greater name, they disdain ever after to serve in any inferior calling, fitter indeed for their Experience: And so become persons altogether unprofitable, and to maintain those glorious names enforced (by shift of brain) to try conclusions: And so by all these means the cause of greater inconveniences.  
I conclude therefore by all these reasons before alleged, and the success of plain experience also (both of old time, and in our own age) that as it is more honourable for the Prince, and most necessary for the advancement of the Service, to have all chief needful Commanders to have such complete Entertainment, as they may (without extortion or corruption in themselves, or alteration of abuses in others) maintain their place with Reputation, and execute Martial discipline with severity. So discharging their duties honourably and honestly they shall save at least one third part of the royal or public Treasure, and yet the forces (though not in show of Ensigns to scare Daws) yet in armed hands to conquer Enemies far more strong and puissant than those multitudes of colours farced with Freebooters or other silly unarmed Ghosts or disordered Mutinous persons, that by licentious education will scarcely endure the pains of Watch and Ward, or abide the due execution of any true Martial discipline. And as these superior Governors and Commanders (doing their duties) are worthy of all reputation, credit, advancement, and honour: So chose, after they have convenient entertainment, if they shall be found the patrons or Panders to such corruptions and abuses as tend to the ruin of all true discipline Militare, I would wish them disgraded, and with all shame disarmed as uncapable ever after to their grave, of any true Martial honour.  
And for proof of this Proposition in all the chief officers also of an Army, for a taste of the rest having chosen to treat of the Martial Censor, or general controller of Musters.  
I say there are of this kind of Officers (as likewise of all others) two sorts: The one, honest, just, fearing God, & respecting the honour, commodity, and advancement of their Prince's Service. The other, neither just, nor honest, nor possessed with any Fear or Reverence of God: but (aiming only at favour, wealth, and advancement in this corrupt world) care not what becomes of the Service, so they may by any means enrich themselves, and purchase friends to back them in all their unhonest proceedings. But more briefly or plainly to set forth the different or repugnant paths of these two sorts of Officers, I cannot better than by these Brief Conferences of the Good and Bad ensuing.  

A conference of a Good and Bad Muster-maister, with his inferior Commissaries of Musters, by the fruits to discern the Tree.  

The Good.  
THis Officer will not willingly serve, but with such a competent & convenient entertainment both for himself and for his inferior Commissaries, Clerks, and Substitutes, as he need not take Bribe or Benevolence, or depend on the favour of any, but the General alone.  
This Officer will be in his Expenses temperate, rather sparing than wasting: that he be not by want enforced to strain his conscience, and deceive his Prince.  
This Officer seeketh by all means to cause the General to establish Laws and Ordinances, whereby orderly Entrances and discharges of Soldiers may be registered, and thereby neither the Prince, nor the Soldier abused.  
This Officer delivereth these Laws to his inferior Commissaries with other straight particular Instructions, and calleth them to account how they have discharged their Duties.  
This Officer will not set down any penny check certain upon any Captain or Band without apparent proof: and for such as cannot be decided, will respite them to farther trial, That neither Prince, Captain, nor Soldier be defrauded or injured.  
This officer if any such doubt arise in the Checques as he cannot determine by the Laws established, he either desireth the Resolution of the General, or that it may be determined by a Counsel at war, or some Commissioners, especially authorized to assist him.  
This Officer (if the Captains show any reasonable cause to be relieved out of the Checques, either in respect of the loss of horse, or armour in Service, or such like that deserveth consideration) he presenteth his proofs thereof, together with his check to the Lo: General, desiring his Lordship to have honourable consideration thereof.  
This Officer (if he see overmuch familiarity between any of his Commissaries and Captains) is presently jealous of them, and calleth them to account: And if he find them connivent or faulty, presently displaceth them, or if he find no other proof but vehement suspicion, yet removeth them to another Garrison, and placeth such other in their rooms, as may sift and examine their former behaviour.  
This Officer, as he would not (to gain a Million) do any Captain apennie wrong, so will he not for the favour of the greatest persons in the Army, or his nearest kin or friends stain his conscience to abuse his Prince one penny: and therefore presents the Checque truly as he finds it, and leaves all favour to be showed by the Lord General only.  
This Officer procureth orders also to be established for training of the Soldiers, and himself requireth the Captains to perform them: And to encourage men to do well, will not spare out of his own purse to give rewards to such shot as by proof he finds the best marksmen.  
This Officer will not accept penny nor pennyworth of any Captain, or Soldier, more, than the fee due to his Office, and that not as a benevolence secretly, but as his due openly.  
This Officer reposing himself only on GOD and his clear conscience, laboureth not to make other friends but his Prince and General: And for the General himself will not strain his conscience any way, though he be sure of many enemies and small backbiting and even to his Prince for faithful service store of false backebiting: yea the Swan must be made a Crow, and the Falcon a Buzzard.  
This Officer as he is thus precise himself as neither to give penny for such an Office, nor to receive Bribe or Benevolence more than due fees: So maketh he a matter of conscience whilst he carrieth such office to give to any of his honourable friends any present, lest they or others should have cause to suspect, he did it to be borne-out in any lewd Action.   

The Bad.  
This Officer careth not how little Entertainment certain he have for himself or his Substitutes: presuming he can make what gain he list of his Office: & make such Friends thereby also, as may bear him out of his lewdness. etc.  
Such an Officer having so good means to get immeasurably by playing the goodfellow, will spend infinitely, especially in keeping company with such as must join with him in deceiving the Prince.  
Such an Officer can no more abide Laws and Ordinances in Musters, than lucrous Captain, saying, It barreth the Officer of his discretion, whereby the Office ought to be directed, & brave men gratified.  
Such an Officer likes none of these strict Courses, saying, Among Martial men a man must play the goodfellow, and not to be too pinching of a Prince's purse.  
Such an officer calleth this Examination nice Curiosity, and sayeth, So there be some Checques for fashion sake it is no matter: make them little enough that the Captains be not angry, and all is well. One goodfellow must pleasure another.  
Such an Officer saith, It is great folly to lose that prerogative of his Office, to resolve these doubts as he sees cause; And to subject himself to Commissioner that is Master of the Musters himself.  
Such an Officer will be Chancellor himself, & never trouble the Lord General with these matters, who hath matters of greater importance to think upon: saying, Prince's purses may not be spared, & brave men must be rewarded, & Officers must get love & honour by dealing bountifully.  
Such an Officer likes none of these severe jealousies, but liketh well such Officers as be plausible and grateful to the Captains, knowing the Captains be liberal, and will not be ungrateful to him, seeing he minds and hath good means to requite their courtesy ten fold out of the Prince's purse.  
Such an Officer, being of another mould, will none of these melancholy courses: he will pleasure his Friends, and cross his Enemies, and make them know he is an Officer can please or displease them: but displease he will not for all that, and for his excuse allegeth that Prince's Cooks may give a good fellow a piece of Beef, and the Butlers or Cellarers a cup of Wine or Beer, and that he will show his Friends a cast of his Office.  
Such an Officer will none of this, saying, it is but a turmoiling of Captains and soldiers, and intruding on the captains Offices to offend and discontent them, and that brave men should not be comptroled, or the imperfection of their soldiers discovered by such open exercises, and that such expenses are foolish, and make more Enemies than friends.  
Such an Officer will accept any thing money or ware, so it come secretly: and like a goodfellow will (on the Prince's purse) requite it tenfold, as easily he may do, and none but his fellowetheeves able to accuse him.  
Such an Officer will not only for the General, but for any other person of authority strain his conscience any way, and to all other Captains also so kind and liberal of his Princess her majesties purse, as he is generally extolled for a brave man; An honourable Officer, an honourable mind, yea & his Prince also whom he deceives horribly shallbe persuaded the Daw is an Eagle, & the Cuckoo a Nightingale.  
Such an Officer hath no melancholy conceit, but as he will take lastly, so will he give frankly to them that can bear him out: and such a one as Captains, Colonels, great Officers and all shall extol, how shall his Prince but like of too, considering the more he robs, the more friends he makes, & the more he shallbe praised: So as if there were no God, the honest were indeed to be begged for a right natural fool.    
But this Conference of either kind I hope it appeareth plainly both how many Enemies the honest must of necessity in this age of Military corruptions draw upon him: And likewise how great a multitude of friends the unhonest may make by their confederacy with others of that humour in robbing of the Prince or public Treasure: And therefore how necessary it is that aswell the honest be honoured with Entertainment and maintenance answerable to their reputation and credit of their place, as the contrary well sifted and extraordinarily punished in terror of abuse.  
But as it is apparently best for the honour of any Prince or State to have this honest office so backed with honourable Entertainment & authority as he may boldly without fear or regard of any offence control fraud, thereby to enforce all Captains to keep their Bands complete, or dull to check their defaults aswell for Arms as men: So is it also asmmuch for the profit & benefit of the king Prince, or State (in respect of the saving of their Teasure, which no way in the world shall be so extremely and unprofitably wasted, as by the ignorance, confederacy or abuses of these Officers, if they be unskilful, base-minded or dishonest: As none can better testify (if they will truly confess their errors) than the States of the Low-Countries, who I think have had full exeperience of the extreme mischief ensuing by employment of base commissaries with poor wages, in place of so great trust & importance.  
But somewhat to say of our own Nation, omitting theirs, I thinks there is no indifferent person but will confess, That in the Earl of Leicester's time of Government, the English Bands generally in the Queen's pay (a very few excepted) were maintained ever far stranger than either before or since, and great reason it should be so: For as neither her Majesty, nor any Prince of Europe ever paid more justly and honourably than in his time, having every four or six months at farthest till the last, a full pay: So was there also so facile & easy means for all Captains in her M. pay from time to time them still to supply & Reinforce their Bands without the Captain's charges, as never was neither before nor since. For besides the 40, Footbdans & 10 Cornets of horse (by contract in her Ma. pay) there was ever at the charge of the country also many other English Ensigns all the Earl of Leicester's time, somewhile 20, sometime forty, and sometime 70, Ensigns at a time, which being by the States as extreme badly paid then, as the Queen's Majesties were honourably & well: Any English soldier that could get out of their Bands into the Ensigns of her Majesty thought themselves advanced from Hell to Heaven. Hereof it came to pass that all the Earl of Leicester's time the Captains in her majesties pay needed not to send into England for soldiers at great charge, for their levying, arming, & transporting to supply their Bands as since they have: but continually Suit was made unto them by soldiers of this ill paid voluntary Bands to be received into the Queen's majesties pay: For those soldiers would rather freely forgive their own pay to their Captains, than tarry in the States pay, if they could obtain a place in any of her Ma: Bands: And so the Captains of her majesties Bands (without any charge at all) had means then still to maintain and keep their Ensigns complete, which (neither before nor since) they ever could (without their charges in sending for and transporting of new soldiers out of England) for the which they can have no allowance but upon special petition to her Majesty.  
Farther the Earl in his time of Government took such courses to make the Captains keep their Bands strong, as never were before nor since. For at the first, finding many Bands of fooftemen left unto him extreme weak, not 60. soldiers in a Band of 150. and half a dozen such Bands at one Muster and one place: his Excellency gave a general day to all Captains in her majesties List to have their Bands reinforced strong, or else to be checked according to to their weakness at the next future Muster: As they should likewlse for his time receive the benefit for the time past, not to be checked, if they were found complete, and strong for Service at that their appointed day.  
This generally made them all, or the greatest part contend, who might Reinforce their Bands strongest.  
Again his Excellency (being both Governor for the States, and General for her Majesty) had the commandment of both forces, and thereby caused Musters General in his time to be always made of all soldiers in every Garrison at one instant: Whereby the soldiers in the States pay could not fraudulently be lent or borrowed to fill the Queen's Bands at Musters, as otherwise they might have done.  
There was also such Ordinances for Musters established by his Excellency as never the like in those Provinces (or better in any other) can be showed, to enforce the Captains that for fear of due check (if for their own credit any Reputation otherwise they would not) to keep their Bands complete: By which Precedents the States have since much reform their Militia.  
And with all so honourable Entertainment allowed the Muster-Master General at that time, as (if he would have but winked willingly at corruptions) he had been worthy of all shame and blame: Who thereby (having convenient means, carrying a severe hand (according to his duty) to execute his office justly, was so maligned of the licentious sort of Captains, as they would vow to keep their Bands more than complete, rather than he should have a penny check out of their Bands toward his Entertainment,  
The honest therefore and honourable (for their own commendation) and the licentious and malignant (for fear of check and envy against the Muster-Master) contend all, who might keep their Bands fairest.  
And yet I think there will be found more checks certain, notwithstanding in the Earl's government fivefolde for respective time, than other before or after; When the Bands were far weaker, besides the checks respited to farther Examination, which would have amounted unto much more, if by cunning practices they had not procured his disgrace.  
But as the bestowing some time of a thousand or two thousand pounds a year on the maintaining of Sluices and Milles for the draining of Marshes, may in some Levelles by clearing of the waters increase their goodness & value of their grounds twenty thousand pounds a year to be bestowed on these necessary Engines may leave them so insufficient as they shall not be able to drain the waters. And thereby the whole level of Marshes improfitable, or many score thousand of pounds in their value yearly lost. So fareth it in the due maintenance of these important Officers in causes Military.  
The Like I say of the Marshal and Serieant-Generall, and many other, who if they have will and skill to execute their duties without regard of offence to the bad and licentious in matter of justice, and use their office as they ought, to advance the profit and service of the Prince (which without compotent and honourable Entertainment is not to be expected) they may not only be able tenfold in the advancement of the Service to deserve their wages, but even (in saving of Treasure) requite it tenfold also.  
And therefore sound may conclude, That neither the sparing of Seed by the fond Husbandman, nor the pinching of pence before mentioned by the miserable Merchant, in the rigging and furnishing of his Ship, Nor want of due allowance for draining of Marshes by convenient Engines is half so fond and absurd, as the omitting of such necessary Officers in Martial causes, Or the sparing of such Entertainment as should enable them to discharge their offices justly and honourably, That by corrupt and lucrous petty companions may be managed to the extreme Robbing of the Prince, and confusion of all true Martial discipline. For even as in this office of Censor or Comptroller-Generall of Musters a corrupt person may with far greater gain give his Prince two thousand pounds a year to farm that Office than an honest officer can take two thousand pounds yearly Entertainment for him and his Substitutes faithfully to discharge it: So shall the 2000, pounds given by the Prince to such a one, be tenfold more gainful and beneficial to his Service, than the 2000 pounds taken: Which by due consideration of the frauds and deceits practised, and by me at large in a particular Treatise thereof already revealed, And by the very trial or experiences already made (duly weighed) will evidently appear.  
And therefore may truly say, that aswell for the profit of all Princes and States, as for the honour and advancement of the service, it is fit this Officer (as likewise all other Officers or Commanders of like importance and necessity) should have such convenient Entertainment for the Reputation of their place, as they may (without fear or regard of any) sincerely censure and control all deceits and abuses, by whom soever they find then boulstered or patronized. And having indeed such allowance as the Reputation of their place requireth, if any such be found (for any respect) to become party or pander of such corruptions and Robberies, whereby the Royal Treasure should be unduly wasted, the forces enfeabled and Martial discipline corrupted Tanquam reum lasae Maiestatis, I would have such a one Exemplarly to be corrected with all blame and shame.  
And for a final conclusion of this true Paradox may confidently confirm. That the most thrifty, and sparing course that any Prince or State can take to continue a war, (without wasting of their treasure, or over-burdening of their Subjects with intolerable Taxes) is still to allow all necessary Commanders, Officers, Captains, and Soldiers such convenient, large, and sufficient Entertainment, as men of true value and honesty may indeed rest therewith contented: And then to execute severe Martial Discipline on all frauds, Robberies, and extortions, without respect of Persons.   

The second Paradox.  
That the antic Roman and Grecian discipline martial doth far exceed in Excellency our Modern, notwithstanding all alterations by reason of that late invention of Artillery, or fireshott. And that (unless we reform such corruptions as are grown into our Modern Militia, utterly repugnant to the Ancient) we shall in time lose utterly the renown and honour of our Nation, as all other also that have or shall commit or tolerate like errors.  
WHereas among many Captains and Commanders of the new Modern Martial Discipline, it is maintained for a Maxim: That all ancient Roman or Grecian Military Laws and Orders of the Field (aswell for Government, as training of their Soldiers) are for the wars of our age mere Mockeries, and that the fury of the Ordinance and other rare. Inventions of our time is such, as hath enforced a necessary change of Discipline and Order in all those matters: I think it fit to open the Error and absurdity of this opinion, held either of such as of ignorance discommend that they never understood, or unadvisedly are miscarried with the authority of others, or of malicious subtlety seek to advance such opinions, as may reduce all Martial Actions to a turbulent confusion, whereby such corrupt, base minded persons (as seek the wars for gain) may excessively enrich themselves, even with the ruin of their country.  
I therefore to the contrary aver: That neither the fury of Ordinance, nor any other like inventions of this our age, hath or can work any such alteration: But that the ancient discipline of the Roman and Martial Grecian States, (even for our time) are rare and singular Praecedents. And that many such customs as we have taken up (contrary to those honourable and right Martial Praecedents) will work our utter shame and confusion, if we should encounter with such warlike Troops and soldiers as their discipline then bred: And yet not impossible but facile for any King in his own Realm (especially of our Nation) by those ancient Praecedents to select and frame a Militia as far surmounting in value vulgar Modern as the Lacedaemonian, the Macedonian, or any other Grecian did the effeminate Persian, who in sundry battles have vanquished them when in number they were double, treble, yea manifold the greater, and in wealth and riches far exceeding. And to enter into the opening of this truth (so much repugnant to the conceit generally received of the greater multitude professing Arms) First I say, That like as in all other Arts and Sciences it is a matter of very great importance to have sure grounds and true Principles without abuse or error. So in this Art Military (whereupon dependeth not only the lives of so great multitudees, but also the defence or ruin of the greatest Realms & Monarchies) it were to be wished that men were not to be misled with such false and fraudulent opinions as may bring-forth fruits most poisonous and perilous.  
Seeing therefore by the civil wars which have risen in this our age, divers disorders have sponge up, and for want of ability to make due pay to soldiers, the Generals and chief Commanders to have been enforced to tolerate many abuses which in time have grown usual, and by use of some disciples (bred in such lawless dissensions) not only learned and practised, but perversely maintained to be not only tolerable, but also laudable, yea far excelling the auncint discipline of the Roman and Greek Armies.  
This error because it tendeth to the advancing of vice: and defacing of virtue, to the extolling of many corrupt new practised abuses and licentious delicacies, and the rejecting or contemning of the sober painful, strict, severe, and sacred Military discipline of the Antiquity. I think it fit to touch some principal points, wherein the Modern Militia (which I reprove) doth dissent from the Antiquity (which I commend) and propone as a precedent for us to imitate: That any Soldier of judgement (not carried wilfully with corrupt affection) may see, how far awry they are, that somuch extol the one, or disdainfully contemn the other.  
But first (lest I be misconceived) I must explain a little farther, My meaning not to be precisely to bind our Nation, or any other, to the same very Rules or Laws which the Romans or any Grecian State was ruled by, which most flourished in Martial prowess, I think the same as great an error as that of some Divines, who would have all Nations ruled by the very same politic Laws and pains that Moses' prescribed to the jews or people of Israel. For albeit those divine Laws were prescribed by the infinite wisdom of GOD himself, and for those people (no doubt) the most convenient, yet, as times, and States, and dispositions of Nations are variable and different, So may the pains or punishments be made more severe or remiss, as the Magistrates and choice members of each State, (assembling as Physicians to cure the maladies growing in the body of their Realms) shall find convenient: So as they make nothing Lawful that is by Laws Divine prohibited, for that were flat impiety. So say I also, there is in the discipline Military of those Martial States-antique, many things, which (according to the nature and disposition of our people) we may mitigate or increase, alter or accommodate. But the dissent in the very chief grounds and principal Axioms of the Art martial (as such men of war of the new Discipline do) I hold it a dangerous error, and fit to be effectually regarded, and speedily reform. Neither is it any part of my meaning, and to tax or reprove all Generals, Commanders, Colonels or Captains that serve in these our Modern wars, as men corrupted or depraved with these erroneous opinions. For myself in mine own experience have known many, that highly esteem the ancient and true Martial Discipline, and condemn as much the intolerable abuses that have grown in by the late intestine & civil dissensions.  
As in France, how much that worthy Prince of Condie and Admiral Shattilion abhorred those disorders which in their time began (and are since grown to their ripeness or rather full Rottenness) may partly appear by their Campe-Lawes, savouring altogether of the antic true Martial Discipline, as far forth as the corruptions of this age, and their wants to pay their Troops would permit. As by that I have at-large set-downe in my Stratioticos touching their Military laws, more manifestly will appear. Likewise in the Military treatise of that famous General, Guillame de Bellay Signior le Langey of Discipline Military, more evidently doth appear: How much he disliked also of the corrupt customs in his time, grown into the wars of France, and how he laboured to reduce it to the perfection of those ancient Martial States, that for many hundred years together (having made that Art and profession, and thereby mightily advanced their Realms in Fame, honour, and wealth, and also increased their Territories) had indeed attained to the high perfection thereof.  
How much also that famous Prince of Orange disliked with these modern abuses (albeit for want of means to pay, and also authority sufficient to govern as he would, he were enforced to tolerate in his Mercenary Commanders many of those corruptions) myself know by that I have diverse time, heard, even from his own mouth, besides that appeareth otherwise by his Remonstrances and Military Ordinances. The like I could say of many of our own Nation, Men of honour, experience and value, that both know and acknowledge how necessary it were to have a Reformation of Modern abuses, and Restitution of true Martial discipline, but are loath to make themselves odious to such multitudes, as (having been bred-up in those base, easy, corrupt lucrous customs) would extremely hate such a Governor, or Commander as should cross their profit, and in his own Regiment first with severity begin such Reformation: Which is indeed not to be performed but by the authority and Majesty of a Prince and Royal State, that is able both to pay and punish.  
So far am I therefore from condemning all Commanders of this age, either of our own Nation or theirs, for patrons of these Modern corruptions and bastardly degenerate soldiery, as clean chose in mine own experience and knowledge I can clear many: Having myself known and conferred with divers of our own Nation that as much abhor them, as that famous soldier of France monsieur de la Nôe, whom I have myself also heard, aswell in his private speeches, as since in his Military discourses discover his extreme dislike of such our modern unsouldierly corruptions, which nevertheless myself saw he was in part enforced to tolerate, even then, when he was Martial of that mighty Army by the States levied against Don john de Austria, and the Prince of Parma in Brabant utterly against his will and liking. I can therefore the less blame any such of our Nation, as bear for a time with these errors, when they see (by contending for redress without sufficient authority) they shall little prevail, and yet make themselves extreme odious. But for such as will not only tolerate, but (of purpose to make profit by them) will impudently maintain their modern customs good, and better for this age, than the Ancient, As I know them most hurtful members, So I cannot but wish such bad Patriotts reform by better reason, or in time rejected as infected sheep, that are able with their leprosy and infection to corrupt great multitudes, to the excessive danger of their Prince and State.  
First therefore to show some principal points, wherein the Modern Militia I speak of, dissenteth from the Ancient by me commended, I say.  
1 It was a very laudable custom of Antiquity to have in their States or Realms Conscriptos milites their chosen enroled soldiers, not of the base, loose, abject, unhonest sort, by Cornelius Tacitus well termed Purgamenta vrbium svarum, but of the honest, wellbred, and renowned Burghers and other country Inhabitants that had some living, Art, or trade to live upon when the wars were finished, aswell to have them practised and trained in all Martial exercises before they came to deal with their Enemies: As also that having somewhat to lose, they more dutifully and obedienly behave themselves during the Service. And having whereupon to live when the wars were done, need not commit such Pickories, extortions, and Outrages, as the common crew of such Caterpillars and Vermin do: As, (having nothing at home to lose, or Art to live,) seek the wars only (like Freebooters) for ravin and spoil.  
2 I say, it was also a commendable custom in those States and commonweals to choose Captains and Commanders of credit and account in their Countries, Cities, or Towns, that might train and exercise neighbours in all martial and Military Exercises at home, before they led them to the wars: whereby the very children in those States (only by looking on) knew far better both the use of every sort of weapon, and how to march and range themselves into any form of battle, yea, how to defend themselves (like soldiers) from every kind of charge or assault of their Enemies, far better I say than many of our brave men that have haunted such licentious wars or pickories many a year.  
3 I say also that it was a commendable course to make such choice of Captains in those antic wars (as being men of Reputation of the same country or City from whence their soldiers were levied, might have the greater care to perform their duties towards their countrymen and neighbours, among whom they should live at their return from the wars, and thereby receive ever after unto their death from them and their friends, either convenient praise and love, or infamy and hatred as their Government had merited) So in these days that the Captains are become not only the leaders, but also the Pagadores or Paymasters of their Bands, there is greater cause to have them chosen not only of skill and reputation, but also of ability to answer an account of such Treasure as shall come to their hands, for the payment of their soldiers: Seeing otherwise (if they be base-minded corrupt persons) they may full easily wrong, starve, and waste their Soldiers many ways, to make their own profit by their death and consumption of their Band, especially where frauds in Musters by lewd custom shall also grow tolerable. For if any such Captains be chosen as either have nothing of their own at home to live upon, or never mean to turn into the Country, whereas the Soldiers were levied, to receive from them and their friends the honour or infamy, the love or hatred that their behaviour hath merited what hope is there that such a one will leave the excessive sweet gain he may make by the fliecing or rather flaying of his flock, and not (according to the Modern Discipline) scrape and rake-in what he may to live afterward: having neither land living, nor Art otherwise to maintain himself when the wars are done.  
4 Likewise where Captains were rightly chosen of such Reputation and credit as is before repeated, that they had a special care in health and sickness to provide things necessary to preserve the lives of their Soldiers (being their Tenants or Neighbours, that ever after to their death would honour and love them for it, and the kindred and friends of those Soldiers also, whensoever it came to any fight with the Enemy, they were ever most assured and faithful to such Leaders, and they likewise to them. In such sort as it was almost impossible to break such a knot of united minds: but being otherwise levied (as too too commonly in our Modern wars hath been accustomed, where the Captain neither knows his Soldiers, nor the Soldiers their Captain before the Service, nor ever mean to meet again when the wars are ended) As the love is small between them, So is their fidelity and confidence much less. And as the Captain taketh small care to provide for them either in health or sickness for any necessaries to preserve lives, So have as small devotion to adventure their lives for him or his honour (to whom indeed the chief reputation of their good service always should redound) But rather in all Encounters with the Enemy, how to make shift by flight to save their lives. If then these kind of Captains also (very providently foreseeing the worst which is likely to happen) will not be unprovided of a beast, to runaway, trusting rather to the legs of his horse than to all the hands in his Band: What can be conceived? But that hereof chiefly it comes to pass, that in these modern wars we hear of so many violent Retraits, (For so in their new discipline they term that which in the old wars was called shameful flight) I mean when the Captain and some of his Officers spur-away on horseback, and the rest throw away both armour and weapons to leap ditches the more lightly, and are shamefully slain without resistance: and many times by multitudes (pressing to get boats) do drown themselves. Now whether such accidents be too usual or no, I refer it to their own consciences that most boldly will commend this base modern discipline. And if it be true whether there be any more likely cause thereof than the diffidence before recited between the Captain and his soldiers, and the want of shame (which in the antic Soldiery was ever accounted the highest virtue) But now by depraved custom in our licentious degenerate wars utterly lost and abandoned: and such accounted bravest men that are become of all others the most impudent.  
5 I say also it was a most honourable order to have it punished with great shame in any soldier to lose or throw-away his Arms, being held among the Grecians a perpetual disgrace for any private soldier so much as to lose his Target. But if now both Captains and some chief Commanders also of the Modern new Militia will be much offended to have any of their Band so much as checked by the Censor or Muster-Master for lack of his Curates or Cask. And to encourage either to leave their Arms, will seldom themselves ever wear any, but take it for a great bravery and Magnanimity in Service to be seen unarmed. What shall I say but that indeed (for them that never mean to fight, but to escape by flight) to be the lighter for a swift carrier, it is a very politic invention and a gainful Discipline.  
6 It was also an honourable course of Antiquity (besides the choice of the Captains of such credit in their Towns & Countries at their entering also into Service) to bind them and their Soldiers all with a sacred solemn Military oath, being holden no better than a thief or Free-booter that followed the wars, unless he were enroled under some Ensign, and had received his Militare oath, whereby he vowed both obedience and fidelity, and rather to die than dishonourably to abandon his Leader and Ensign.  
But in such new Discipline these ceremonies are scoffed at, and Captains chosen suitable to their loose depraved soldiery,  
7 It was also a laudable custom to have the Captain carry his own Arms in his Ensign, besides the Ensigns of the Regiments which were among the Romans alway Eagles. And that he that lost his Ensign should be held a disgraced man, not fit to carry Arms till he had won like honour again.  
But now in our new Militia in stead of Ensigns we have learned to carry colours, because many Captains perhaps are yet to win their Arms, and thereby make small account to lose their masters colours, which may be one cause (among many other) that the Spaniard within these 20 or 30 years can make his vaunt of the taking of more English Ensigns, than I think they could truly these 500 years before.  
8 It was also a most laudable Discipline, whereby men from their infancy were taught in those Martial Schools rather resolutely in the Field to die, than to save their lives by flight, the Mother's detesting and abhorring their own children that saved their lives by flying: yea and some with their own hands doing execution on such children of their own as were Fugitives, rather than they would have so dishonourable a Monument (as they said) to their parents and country to walk upon the earth.  
But if in our Modern Militia this error be thought so small, as many such brave men will among their cups usually vaunt thereof, and recount at how many places they have fled and run away: Taking as it were a glory to tell who had fled fastest, the change is over great.  
As in the ancient Martial States it was (even in a private soldier) held a perpetual shame to have run away, or somuch as only abandoned his Rank wherein he was placed (unless it were to step forward into the place of his precedent fellow slain) So in a Captain or Superior Commander it is much more dishonourable and shameful: Which hath caused many famous Generals (that full easily might have escaped & saved themselves) utterly to refuse horses offered, and all other means to fly, and have voluntarily sacrificed themselves with their soldiers.  
But if in our new Militia many brave soldiers (as they are termed by their own crew) will not shame to vaunt: In how many places they have escaped by flight (belike of Zeal to fight again for their country) the change indeed is great.  
10 In the antic Militia it was a shame for a Leader or Commaander of footmen to be seen mounted on any horse of service, but either a foot, or for his ease (being wearied) on some small Nag, which no man could suspect was any way reserved to escape by flight.  
But if in such Modern Militia ye shall have both Captains and Colonels on horses of swift carrier mounted, and bravely leading their men even to the place of Butchery, and then to take their leave (under pretence to fetch supplies) The Discipline is greatly altered. And yet these shameless Fugitives perhaps highly commending one another (when the valiant men that resolutely died in the place, by slanderous inventions shall be lewdly defaced) These Fugitives I say may be advanced, and the valiant disgraced, or at least buried in oblivion.  
11 In these antic Martial Commonweals they used to make Statuas and Epigrams in their honour that resolutely died in the Field for the service of their country: and detested such base minded cowards as saved themselves by flight. But if chose we bury their names in oblivion that valiantly died in the field, and extol Fugitives, and think them not unworthy of new charges: There is a great alteration indeed of Martial Discipline.  
12 In the ancient Martial States and Monarchies, there were public places of Exercise, where the youth (before they went to the wars) used to enure themselves to more heavy arms and weapons far than the usual for service, making thereby their ordinary Arms seem light and easy to them.  
But if such patrons of the new Discipline scoff at these painful exercises (because they neither trouble themselves nor the soldiers with the wearing of such Arms) it seemeth that as they of the Antiquity prepared themselves to fight and conquer. So these Modern Commanders to escape and carouse with the dead pays of their slain Soldiers.  
13 The antic Martial discipline was to range their Soldiers into form of battle by due proportions of Ranks, teaching the succeeding Ranks (where any of the former were slain) to reinforce their places maintaining their first Ranks still full with armed hands of fight men in Martial order.  
But if such Ringleaders of the Modern puddled discipline, as would have all brought into a confusion, scoff at such order & Ordinances, & say, there is no better way to make a battle than advance 4 pikes, & make their Soldiers run in and fill them: And that all other Arithmetical Rules (for speedy dispatch thereof) are unfeazible toys, because their own skills will not reach it as a matter they never set their wits upon. Whether they were fitter to fold sheep, or embattle Soldiers I leave it to the censure of honourable & right Martial Commanders.  
14 The discipline was to reduce their Armies into sundry Battalions and sundry several Frounts whereby the General and his chief Officers and Colonels might orderly bring new succours to fight, and relieve such as were tired or weakened by slaughter, and so to renew many fights upon the Enemy still with courageous fresh men till they had entire victory. And for that cause had they so many Fronts and several kind of Commanders, as Turmarum Praefectos, over their Principes, Hastatos & Triarios: Tribunos Militum also Drungarios or Chiliarchas, Turmarchas Merarchas, Celerum Praefectos, and many others as in my Stratioticos is set down more lagely for their infantry only: Whereon those right Martial Nations reposed their chiefest trust, and yet no idle Leaders or Officers, but every one to so necessary a purpose as they might not conveniently be spared.  
But if such men of war of the new Mould scoff at all these Ordinances and Supplies, saying: A battle is won and lost in the twinkling of an eye at the first joining, and therefore needless: We may indeed confess it too true, where they bring their brave men like flocks of sheep hudle confused to fight, or rather to flight: The battle is many times indeed gotten before the crossing of pikes. The terror only of Arms glistering is sufficient to scare such pilfering unsouldierlike Freebooters.  
15 The ancient discipline was ever to encamp their soldiers close together strongly, and so orderly to divide their Quarters, and set down their Regiments: As their camp was like a well fortified Town, where ten-times so many Enemies durst not assault them.  
But our new discipline, to lodge our Army in Villages far and wide a sunder, as every Captain may be provided most for his ease and commodity like petty Princes, and thereby in no place more easily defeated than in their own lodgings.  
16 The ancient Martial men thought it not dishonourable with their own hands to Entrench their Capms. And their great Generals would take the shovel in hand themselves when occasion so required.  
But our brave men of the new Discipline disdain to be pioneers, and will rather lodge abroad in villages at their pleasure and ease like gallant fellows, where they may take their pleasure, and carouse lustily.  
17 The ancient Discipline reposed their chief confidence in their infantry, whom they so trained, armed and ordered: As twenty or thirty thousand footmen forced not of five times so many horsemen.  
But as our footmen of the new Discipline are armed and ordered, a thousand horse is able to defeat five times as many such footmen. And yet might the footmen of our time carry weapons of far greater advantage against horse being well ordered, than were known in those days. So great is the error of the Martial Discipline of our age among such Leaders, as have been trayned-up in Freebooter wars, and have vowed their service to their Lady Picorea, being careless of any thing appertaining to Victory and Honour, respecting rather their own private profit and commodity.  
18 The ancient Martial Discipline tended chiefly to this scope, to carry such an Army to the Field, as boldly durst march on all grounds, as well Champion, as by straits. And in Ordinance ready to fight with the Enemy by their exercise, order, and assurance, not doubting of victory.  
But the scope of such Modern Discipline seemeth to be rather to carry men (so lightly armed and loosely disciplined) as they may be nimble to stray abroad to pick and steal, and to escape by flight, when they are charged with any Enemy of force. And as for loss of Ensigns or shameful flight, they make it a trifling matter, being ready to do as much again at any time.  
19 The ancient Discipline would never suffer any soldiers to go abroad to spoil, but with Leaders and commanders to direct and guide them: having intelligence before hand, which Quarters was best replenished with commodities needful for the Army, and then sent such forces as might not fail to set it in, or honourably defend themselves if they were encountered.  
But this new discipline will send their soldiers to spoil by handfuls, without Captain, Lieutenant or Ensign to guide them: if they get any Pickorie, the Captain hath his share: But if their throats be cut, the Captain will have their pay, aswell due before their death as after, by mustering them absent, etc., till the Muster-master discover it. And whereas such a Captain should be disarmed, and by the Provost hanged for such abuse: By this new Discipline he will rail at the Muster-master lustily, if he cheek him only the stolen pay.  
20 The ancient true Martial Discipline was, That all Prays (so orderly in the wars taken) should be brought to one place; where Magistrates and Officers of purpose appointed should dispose thereof for the Ransoming of prisoners, and the remounting of such as had their horses slain in Service, and for reward aswell of those that made the Stand, as of those that fet in the prey.  
But in our new Discipline it is Catch who catch may, and no order in the world for distribution of the pray for any public uses, nor for redemption of prisoners, or remounting of such as in Service lost their horses.  
21 The ancient Discipline was that no armed man on pain of death should step out of his Rank in time of Service, to catch or spoil, which they easily obeyed, because by their Martial Discipline then, they had as good reward out of the pray (that stood in battle armed) as the loose men that brought it in.  
But in our Modern wars (where no such order is established, but Catch who catch may) there is nothing but confusion: Which cannot be but to their utter ruin and shame. Whensoever such unsouldierly Freebooters shall encounter with any Enemy of good government.  
22 By the ancient Discipline (besides the reward of the soldiers which was left to the discretion of the General) there were ever great masses of Treasure brought home to the public Treasury to maintain the future wars, and thereby no Cesses or Subsidies on the people for many years together, by reason of the treasure so saved and gained by their well disciplined wars.  
But if by our Modern Discipline of Land Services the Prince or State hath no benefit by the spoils, but is riotously wasted among such Freebooters and their assotiates and the best soldiers lest part of the pray, and by such disordered war, no ceasing of Taxes or Subsidies, but continuance or rather increase of both, in all Realms and States served by such spoilers: It is easy to discern which were the better Discipline for the Prince and people.  
23 By such ancient Discipline Kingdoms and States by their wars have increased their wealth, and their Subjects have grown more wealthy and mighty.  
But by our Modern wars both Prince and Subjects grow poor, & few of these unruly unsouldierlike Freebooters (how hugely soever they get by their corruptions or abuses) grow wealthy by it, for, Badly gotten is ever commonly worse spent.  
24 The scope of the ancient Martial Discipline was chiefly to preserve the public Treasure of the country, and to maintain the wars on the treasure gotten by conquests on their Enemies.  
But the scope of our Modern Discipline seemeth to be to enrich private Captains and Commanders, and to convert both the spoils & the wages of the soldiers also to their particular benefits. And so new Taxes and Subsidies of necessity still on the people to maintain the wars.  
25 The ancient Generals and great Commanders had their chiefest care how to preserve their own people which caused them so carefully to arm them, train them, and entrench them strongly, etc. saying the held it more honourable to save one of their own Soldiers than to destroy ten Enemies. As they likewise sought to make their Soldiers and Country wealthy, respecting nothing for themselves but the honour only of well-doing.  
But in our Modern Discipline it seemeth, The more of their Soldiers are wasted and consumed, the richer grow such Commanders as by deceits in Musters have the conscience to convert all the dead pays to their own profit: Which wicked game of all other is most abominable before God & perilous to any State: the strength and glory of a Prince only consisting in the multitude and force of his people which are wasted and consumed by such Moths and Caterpillars.  
26 These ancient worthy Generals and Commanders in the Field bent their wits and inventions only for such exploits as might be honourable and profitable to their country.  
But if Commanders of the new discipline devise only Exploits to waste and consume the Treasure of their Prince or State: And care not (to supply their own prodigal Expenses) though they spoil their friends thereby, not only doing their best to break amity and make more Enemies to their Prince and Country, but also commit such foolish spoils as their Prince or State shall be sure to repay again double and treble any commodity or aid they received thereby. This abuse surely aught to be amended.  
27 In those ancient right Martial States we shall hear of Generals and Dictator's (after they had deposed Kings conquered great Princes, and brought home to the Treasure of the country mighty masses of Gold & Silver) were nevertheless content to return home to their poor houses, no whit enriched in wealth, but only in honour, living soberly and temperately as before on their private patrimony, and scarcely a piece of silver-plate to be seen in their own houses, that have brought in millions to their State and Realm.  
But if in our Modern Discipline we shall see petty Commanders (that never brought into their Prince's Realm or State the hundred part of any such masses of Treasure, but rather have had their share in wasting huge sums to little purpose) to abound in bravery, wast infinitely in all kind of vanities, that I say no worse, And more Silver dishes on their Table than Quintus Dictator or Scipio that conquered Hannibal and razed Carthage: It seemeth these men serve themselves, as the other did their country.  
28 We may read of Roman Generals that by conquering some Provinces brought so great a mass of wealth to the public Treasury of Rome, that it ceased Taxes, Tributes, or Subsidies there for many years.  
But if our Modern Militia (clean contrary) do still waste and consume the public Treasure, and be the cause not of ceasing, but rather of increasing of Tributes or Subsidies on their country, the difference of Discipline indeed is great: But which were the better for the honour and commodity of our Prince and country, is easy by the wise, honest, and right honourable to be discerned.  
By the Ancient Discipline little Macedon conquered all the large and spacious Oriental Empire of the proud, rich, & populous Persians: And that small Realm of Rome subdued so many Nations under their obedience in Europe Africa, and Asia, and made Tributary so many mighty Kings, as their Monarchy was of the whole world admired: And that their discipline Military was the chief or only cause thereof: That famous Roman Emperor Alexander Severus in his Oration to his Soldiers declareth, saying.  
Disciplina Maiorum Rempub. tenet, quae si dilabatur,  
Et nomen Romanum, & Imperium amittemus.  
If then not only by the censure or prophesy of that famous Emperor, concerning, that State, but by very experience also in our own age of many others our Neighbours round about us, we may plainly behold the success of this corrupt degenerate Modern Militia, so repugnant to the Ancient: It were wilful blindness not to discern which were the better. And no less negligence to permit the continuance of so dangerous a disease.  
30 We shall also read of Generals in those warlike Commonweals, that so highly esteemed of the Martial Discipline of their Nation, and were so zealous therein, as they would not have it violated in the least point. As Manlius Torquatus that would have executed his own son for encountering in particular combat with his Enemy without leave, and before the Signal of battle given; Albeit he had the victory and strake-of his enemy's head in the sight of both Armies, to the great encouragement of the Romans, and terror of the contrary side, that took that particular Encounter as Ominous for the success of the battle, as it fell indeed out, to the great honour of the Romans, and utter ruin of their Enemies. Yet after the victory this honourable and famous General, considering the danger that might have fallen out if his son had not been victorious, and that the discipline Roman was broken by this attempt (to fight without licence) he would not spare it in his own son, but commanded the Serients to apprehend him, and (after he had been whipped with rods) to be openly executed: wherein he so constantly persevered, as his whole Victorious Army on their knees could scarcely obtain his pardon. If then this breach of one point only of Military obedience (committed of Magnanimity and noble courage, and abundance of Zeal to his country) was in those days so severely censured: As the father would not have pardoned his own son, notwithstanding by his happy success also he was the chiefest cause of that honourable victory.  
What shall we say of such Ringleaders of corruptions in the new discipline, As shall not of any such Magnanimity or haughty courage or Zeal to their country, but of a base, corrupt, and lucrous mind break not one or two, but many points of Martial Discipline, and thereby not get victory, but more than once or twice receive those dishonourable foils and disgraces, that for shame in those days no private soldier would never return home to abide the due shame and disgrace of. What can be said? But that it is high time to have these important Errors looked into, lest the same succeed here, which in all other States have done, where Martial Discipline hath been so neglected, and corruptions triumph unpunished.  
It were infinite to recite all the disorders of our Modern wars, and would require a long Treatise to lay-open all the commendable Ordinances, Customs, and provisions of the famous Grecian and Roman Armies, whereby they honoured and immortalised their Generals, and amplified and enriched their States and Countries. But these few notes may suffice to show how great a difference there is between the one and the other. Neither is it my meaning to call in question the doings of any particular persons, but only to open the dangerous error of that opinion: That the loose customs of our time should be better than the Ancient: Or of such excellency as we need no reformation or amendment.  
For I doubt not by due consideration of these few by me recited it is manifest how great a difference there is between that Ancient Discipline (whereby mean and poor Estates were advanced to mighty Monarchies) And these Modern corruptions (whereby flourishing States have been spoiled and defaced, and mighty Realms and Empires brought to ruin.)  
But because some patrons of these new corruptions (for defence of their bad cause) allege: That the late famous invention of Great Artillery and Fireshott, unknown to the Antiquity, and so far surmounting all the Ancient Roman and Grecian Engines both in terror and effect) hath necessarily enforced so great an alteration of Arms, Weapons, and Military Order, as the discipline also must clean change: I think it fit to set down some of their chief and principal Reasons.  
1 First therefore (say they) it is now to small purpose to wear Arms, seeing the fury of the Fireshott is such, as no Armour is able to hold it out.  
2 It is vain to make Battles or Battalions in such order and form ranked, as among the Grecians or Romans were accustomed. Because the fury of the great Artillery is such as it openeth, breaketh and dissolveth all Orders or Ordinances that ye can imagine to make: And therefore experience hath taught us (say they) to leave those massy Bodies of armed Battles that serve but for Butts for the great Artillery to play upon: And to seek more nimble and light infantry that may be ready to take and leave at their pleasure.  
3 And for the severity of Discipline in the wars (they say) it is like the Frenzy of some Divines, that would have men in this world pass an Angelical life, without any fault or errors: which being so far above the nature of man to perform: In aspiring to it many times they commit more foul and gross faults than the vulgar sort, that never reach at such perfection: and thereby become ridiculous to the world as they also will be that shall attempt such precise Discipline Military, as is utterly impossible to put in execution, and unnecessary for this our age, where Weapons and Orders of the wars are so altered and changed.  
These are the most effectual Reasons that ever I could hear alleged on that side to maintain their heretical opinion. But as there is no cause so bad, but may by fineness of wit be cleared and made appear probable. So is there no doctrine so false but by craft & subtlety of man's inventions shall be made plausible and to appear matter of good truth. These reasons indeed at the first appearance seem probable, but being duly weighed are no thing worth.  
1 And first for leaving Arms in respect of the fury of the Fireshot which no portable Armour is able to resist, is both frivolous and false. For there are many reasons to use convenient Arms, albeit that were true that they profited us nothing against the Fireshot. For they defend us from the Launco, from the Pike, the Halberd, the javelin, the Dart, the Arrow, and the Sword: yea and from the greater part of the fireshot also that any way endanger us in the field: I mean even the portable and indifferent Armour that is made (n●t of Musket or caliver proof) but only against the Lance and Pistol. For the greatest part of the fireshot that touch the bodies of any man in the field, graze first and strike upon the ground: And from all such shot, a mean Armour very portable and easily to be worn by any soldier, sufficeth to save a man's life, as ordinary experience in the field daily teacheth. For indeed to lad men with arms of Musket proof (I am of their opinion) were not possible to endure, and mere folly to put in ure for many respects: too long to commit to writing in this place. But this light and mean Armour is still to be continued in all battles and battalions that shall encounter with Pike or Lance, because it assureth the life of man greatly from all other weapons, yea and from the most part of the fireshott also.  
2 Neither is there any Martial Commander of judgement, that will object his Battles or Battalions as a But for the great or small Artillery to play upon: But will alway advance forward their own shot and lightest armed loose men to encounter their enemies shot, and surprise his Ordinance before the battles or battalions come within danger of the Artillery great or small, to be played on at Point Blank. And thereby shall the enemy be enforced either to put forward his Light-horse or infantry before his great Ordinance to guard and defend them: Or else they shall be possessed or cloyed.  
If he protect them with horse and foot of his own from surprise, then may the Squadrons march on safely, and so (by good discretion) the armed battles are in no danger at all of their Enemy's Artillery, but may adventure forward in safety to back their own shot and light armed, which were sent to surprise or cloy their enemy's Artillery. And then without any more annoyance of the great Ordinance, the Battles come to join with Lance, Sword, or Pike, as in old time in ancient wars hath been accustomed.  
Farther all men know (that are of skill or experience) that great Artillery very seldom or never can hurt any footman, that upon giving fire only do but abase themselves on their knee till the volew be past, being much more terrible to unskilful and unexpert new Besoignes, than any way hurtful to trained Soldiers. And therefore (as is apparent) no reason in respect either of the great or small Artillery or Fireshott either to leave convenient arms, such as the Antiquity used, and were able to march withal many hundred miles, or such Battalions as the Romans used. If any man will object that Ruytters with their Pistols, and Argoletires with their Pettronels, (which the Romans had not) would beat your massy Phalanx of Pikes (used by the Grecians) down to the ground, without receiving any damage at all by them.  
Hereunto I say, if we had not either Pistols or Lances on horseback to encounter these Ruytters and Argoletires, they said somewhat. Or if we had not Musketers on foot to impale or line our battles, that should more spoil their Squadrons of Ruitters before they could approach nigh the place where they should discharge their pistols. For there is no soldier of judgement that commendeth the ancient Roman or Grecian Discipline that would have us reject all Modern weapons to cleave to theirs only. But embracing the Modern fireshot also to leave the abusing of them, and using them rightly to use still the ancient and right Martial Discipline also of the Romans and Grecians. We see (long since the fireshot hath been used) that the Switzers notwithstanding have continued their massy battles of armed pikes like the Gaecian Phalanx, and very honourably discharged themselves both in Italy, France, and Germany. In such sort as the Emperor Charles & the French King both relied on them greatly, and to this day (of the Mercenaries) they carry the reputation with the best. So that no fury of the fireshot hath ever caused them to leave their massy Phalanx by the Grecians used.  
How much less than should the Roman Order of battalions fear our Fireshot? Nay rather is it not the most excellent ordinance that possibly can be imagined? As well to open themselves (without disorder) to give a way to their Fireshot to sally forth, and retire in safety without any danger of any charge by their Enemy's horse, and so more fit and convenient for our wars and weapons now in use, than they were for the weapons of that age wherein they were first practised? And if neither the small nor great artillery of our age could ever make the Switzers or launceknights to leave their massy main Battle or Phalanx, but that in all wars they have so honourably discharged themselves, as all Princes are glad to embrace their friendships and aids: how much more would they have excelled, if they had revived also the Roman Embattailing in Battalions, which they invented only to defeat the Macedonian and Grecian Phalanx.  
3. Now for the 3. invective against their Frenzy that would have in soldiery or Divinity such refined Discipline, as is impossible for men, and more fit for Angels.  
I answer I am indeed of their opinion, that it is fantastic and fanatical to advise such a Discipline any way, as is impossible for men to observe. But if the Grecians and Romans also (being men in flesh as we are) many hundred years together did observe and keep such Discipline as I persuade, Then I cannot see any such impossibility as they infer, Or would make Princes believe. But the truth is, it is not for the profit or private benefit of such mercenary Commanders as most commonly manage the wars of our age, to have that honourable ancient severe discipline revived, which is the chief impediment. Yet somewhat also I confess in Europe the great wealth that most Nations are in this age grown unto, and the delicate education of their children from their infancy doth make that severe discipline more strange unto us, and somewhat more difficile to put in execution, As all things of highest Excellency are also accompanied with greater difficulty. But if it be compared with the greatness of the good that thereby shall ensue, and the great necessity without delay to have it done, (If we esteem liberty and abhor to be slaves to strangers) it may perhaps be found more easy far than at the first it seems. Or if at first for meaner faults we mitigate the pains, and by convenient degrees proceed to cure the malady that groweth too too dengerous, we shall at least do somewhat if not the best, which is rather to be wished than nought at all.  
But because these patrons of the new Militia have one-other arch Argument (a Verisimili) to abuse the world withal; I will also set it down with such answer as briefly may open the fallacy thereof, and the necessity of Reformation without delay.  
The fourth Reason.  
If (say they) the alteration of weapons considered, there were any better Discipline for the wars, the invention of man is so excellent in this age, and their wits so refined, as they would put it in ure, aswell as they have invented these fire-weapons, So far exceeding all their antic Roman Rams, Scorpions, Balistes, and Arcubalistes, as we see those old Engines now (in respect of them) mere toys: Even so is also their ancient Discipline, in respect of the rare Militia modern of our Age.  
To this reason of theirs I answer: That no doubt the invention of man in this age is in deed excellent, and far exceeding the former ages for 500 or 1000 years past: as may appear by all Arts and Sciences that have of late more flourished than in a thousand years before. But if we have regard to the more ancient times of the triumphant Grecian States, and Rothose mane Empire, we shall find for all Arts & Sciences ages far excelling ours, & no persons of our age (either for learning or Chivallrie) yet comparable with them: If comparing the actions and books of the one and the other, we will by the fruits judge unpartially of the trees. But even as Divines, Physicians, Lawyers, Philosophers, Mathematicians, and Rethoricians, and all other (studious of any liberal Sciences in our age) are enforced to repair unto those antic fountains, where all Arts liberal were in their high perfection: So surely for the wars much more we ought, Seeing there was not one Science or Art then, more reduced to her full and supreme perfection.  
Nevertheless I deny not, that the Commanders of our time for that scope and end perhaps they shot at, have finely framed a Discipline as profitable & perfect, as the antic was for theirs. For in this our age (especially these forty or fifty years, since the Emperor Charles left his Martial actions: And our renowned King Henry the eight, and Francis the French King died) there hath scarcely been any King of Europe that hath at any time in any royal war gone to the field himself, but only committed their Martial actions chiefly to the execution of their Lievetennauts and inferior Commanders, which must of necessity make great alteration. For where a King is Oculatus testis, he seeth that which his Lieutenants will never acquaint him with, being not for their commodities.  
When Kings go to the wars themselves, they see what is profitable or discommodious for themselves and their Realms, and advance such Discipline as may be most beneficial to them and their State, As their Deputies will such Discipline as may be most commodious for themselves, howsoever it be good or bad for their King or State.  
Again in this our age Kings generally have made their wars (not so much with their own people, as with mercenaries and hired Soldiers. Who have reason for their private benefit to use a government and Discipline far different from that they ought & would if they were led and commanded by a King of their own. Their scope perhaps for the most part being to enrich themselves. Howsoever the success of the wars be for the King or State that pays them.  
I deny not but the Modern Discipline and Customs for enriching of themselves, (I mean of Superior Commanders) is most singular and refined to the utmost. As,  
If a General will be content his Captains shall keep their Bands half empty, and yet by frauds in Musters make his Prince or State pay nigh complete.  
If he will suffer them to pill and spoil the Country where they lie, oppressing their friends more than their enemies.  
If when he hath fingered their pay, he will be content to lead them, or have them led to some butchery, where most of their throats shall be cut, that their dead pays may be shared among the Leaders.  
Or generally for all those points of the modern custom or discipline repugnant to the antic: who seeth not they are as finely and wittily invented for the profit and commodity of the mercenary lucrous Commanders, as possibly can be devised: and surely the wit of men can invent no more than hath been, To pretend cunningly the benefit of the Prince and State they serve, and yet finely indeed to enrich themselves with the impoverishing and very ruin of their Prince or State that payeth them. And surely if Mercenary (Leaders that serve not for any Zeal, conscience, or duty they owe to that Prince or Country, but only seek the wars for gain) have framed such a discipline, I cannot so much blame them though they carry no such Lacedaemonian or Roman resolution (rather to die in the field, than save themselves by flight) But choose rather to enrich themselves and their confederates by such escapes, having thereby the sharing of all their dead Soldiers pays without contradiction, Seeing dead dogs bark not. But after they have learned abroad in these mercenary wars this foul, base, couning and corrupt cowardly Discipline, to bring it home into their native Countries: who seeth not it must of necessity work in time the very ruin of their State? For as a woman that hath once made shipwreck of her honesty, easily maketh a relapse: So fareth it in these mercenary Fugitives, that having once cast away shame (which only or chiefly maketh men resolutely to sacrifice their Lives for their Country) afterward become so far past shame, as they hold it no disgrace by shameful flight at any time to save themselves. This error alone creeping into England (if ever we be invaded by a puissant Enemy) is sufficient utterly to overthrow the State: For it is the honourable resolution of our Nation (To conquer or die in the field) that must deliver England, If we be invaded by a forcible Enemy.  
For we have no such multitudes of strong Towns as other Countries: Our Arms and weapons are our walls and Rampires. We therefore of all other Nations ought to revive the ancient most Honourable Lacedaemonian Resolution. To account the shame of dishonourable flight worse than ten deaths. But seeing it is hard in this age of delicacy to work in mothers that honourable Spartan Resolution (To abhor their own children that were Fugitives) Yet surely for all men to detest their company, And for Magistrates to disgrace them, (as persons unworthy ever after to bear Arms) is a thing not only necessary, but of such necessity as (if it be omitted, and not in time put in due execution) I doubt we shall too late repent it when all remedy will be past: the Wiseman saith not Had I wist.  
My meaning is not to call in question any private persons of our Nation, for any errors committed in foreign countries: for surely these foul depraved customs were grown so common among the Mercenary Servitors of all Nations, as many valiant men by Example of others their Superiors or Leaders have fallen into them. But when we come to serve (not mercenary for pay of strangers) but our natural Prince and Country, (to whom we owe our bodies and lives) it is fit this part of ancient true Martial Discipline be severely revived and published, and remerkable Exampels made upon the first breakers, As also a due reformation of all such other abuses, frauds, and deceits, as allure men thereunto, and tend to the robbing of our Prince, the defacing of true valour, and advancing only of subtle, base minded, lucrous cowardly caterpillars, tending finally to the very ruin and overthrow of the honour of our Prince and Nation, & faelicious estate of our Country.  
I mean not at this time to enter into the means how this Discipline should be reform, or how Soldiery should be made obedient, for it would require a great volume: but by that I have read of the Roman & Greek wars, and by mine own experience conferred with the opinion of other worthy Soldiers and great Commanders of our own age I dare boldly affirm and with good reasons and authority maintain, That it shall be much more easy to frame such an honourable Militia or Soldiery by a levy of our Contreymen (never in wars before) than of such as have been depraved and corrupted in the loose, lewd, lucrous, licentious liberties of the wars of this time: As by that I have more at large set down in divers parts of my Stratiotic●s concerning the offices and duties of every several degree from the private Soldier to the General, and the Military laws of several Nations) there set down also, more evidently will appear. This much only in this place I may add. That albeit Premium and Paena be most Sovereign medicines to cure all Ulcers and infections that happen to the politic body of any State, whether it be in civil or Martial causes, yet Example specially with our Nation is the chief.  
For as in the meanest matters (if it be but only in apparel, or attires) the Example of our Court is able to reform or deform the whole Land, and by bare Example only to do ten times more than Proclamations, threatenings, and Statutes paenall: So in Martial causes much more we have regard to such actions as great Commanders do, which in Court are favoured, advanced, or countenanced. If they do well, full easily will all inferiors conform themselves: But if they either by custom continue courses inconvenient, or by facility of nature be seduced but to tolerate only the abuses which are too currant in these days, and not severely chastise the delinquent without regard of pleasing or discontenting the diseased multitude (how good laws so ever be established, or proclamations made) it is in vain: For the loose licentious sort judge them either published only for fashion sake without regard whether they be observed or no, or else their lewd faction to be so strong as Magistrates dare not punish them: And either of these conceits joined with the profit and sweetness these licentious Commanders make by their corruptions, is sufficient to embolden them more audaciously still to put their frauds in execution: But, what succeed thereof, by example and experience in all ages we may behold.  
First in Rome (by reason of the Civil wars between Caesar and Pompey, and after beetwne Augustus Caesar, Anthony, Brutus and, Cassius) the Martial Discipline grew to corruption, no one side daring to use the ancient due severity, lest they should revolt to his adversaries. But what ensued, after the right Martial Legions were decayed, and a licentious Praetorian Guard maintained? but the ruin of that famous and mighty Empire, ransacked, and spoiled by the Huns, Goths, and Vandals, the most base of all the Barbarous people that they before had conquered. The like I might particularly set down of divers of the most Martial Grecian commonweals, if we had not our next neighbour the mighty Kingdom of France (even in our own age, by the very like depraved Customs first learned among the Italians, and nourished in that Realm likewise by Civil dissensions) brought into most lamentable misery. A spectacle to stirre-up all Princes (while they may) to prevent those calamities whic● 〈…〉 will be too late.  
For after civil wars were once begun, 〈…〉 the King, nor the Prince his enemies, could keep 〈◊〉 severe hand on Martial justice, lest these dissolute Soldiers should revolt, and so were indeed rather Suppliants than Commanders of their Armies: which being for the most part composed of mercenary hirelings, devised all means prodigally to maintain themselves, whatsoever became of their Prince, or Country, the success whereof we see.  
And that is that Modern discipline which so greedily the licentious of all Nations swallow up, and are infected withal by the contagion of such as they have conversed with, Tending chiefly to the maintenance of themselves inexcessive riotous wastings, and to the utter overthrow of all Princes or States that shall beserued with them.  
To conclude therefore this true and needful Paradox, I hope (by the conference of these few repugnant points of the Ancient and Modern Martial Discipline) It doth sufficiently appear. That as the latter are devised wholly for the profit of corrupt persons (and both dishonourable and extreme dangerous to any State or Realm that shall endure them, So the former which I have named of the Antiquity) are both for the honour, profit and advancement of the service of any King or State that shall embrace them.  
And therefore too apparent (not only by evident discourse of reason, but also by plain experience and success in other Realms & States) That where such abuses & corruption of true Martial Discipline shall be permitted, there can in time ensue no better than confusion & utter ruin. And yet nothing doubt, but that our Nation, As by nature it is as warlike as any other under the Heaven (having in times past while they were trained & led by honourable Generals, conquered their enemies being ten to one, as appeareth by the Chronicles and confessions of our very enemies themselves) So hereafter also (by due regard in choice of such Commanders, and redress of such modern Errors) we shall leave to our posterity also like monuments of Fame, as have been left to us by those our right martial and Honourable Ancestors.   

The third Paradox.  
That the sometimes neglected soldiers profession deserves much commendation, and best becomes a Gentleman, that desires to live virtuously, or die Honourably.  
Proeludium.  
I Will neither deny, nor commend, my love to Poetry, some little idle time spent in it for my private recreation I repent not, it hath good use, and is a good exercise for busy young heads: The noble adorner of that practice Sir Philip Sidney though he lived an age before me, I yet honour, I love his memory, and in my best wishes to my Country, I sometimes sadly wish our Nobility and Gentry would be his followers: yet being as he was a man of Arms by nature, 
a Pallingen in Ariete.  quem Pallas nutrivit in antris, of Pallas bringing up, one that sucked milk from both her breasts, a learned soldier; I would he had left the patronage of Poetry to some more private spirit, and saved me a labour by bestowing his much better wit on some requisite Apology for soldiers, whose profession is now as much contemned as to be a 
b Montag. lib. 1 Essay. 25.  Graetian, or as a Scholar was wont to be in Rome, whose name is as unpleasing as 
c Idem Essay. 42.  jehan in France, or 
d Guichard. 1. lib.  jone in Naples, whose nature is esteemed so vile, that some men think it justice to make a convertible reciprocation betwixt them and wandering houseles men: But when I call to mind how 
e Hora: de arte Poetica.  Homer the best Poet chose as the best subject to describe 

f Ibidem et Iusti● Histo.  Res jests regumque ducumque & tristia bella:  
The exploits of Captains, Kings and dismal combatings.  
Tyrtaeusque mares animos ad Martia bella versibus exacuit.  
And how men's minds to Martial fight,  
Tyrtaeus did with rhymes excite.   
When I remember how Leonidas and his companions had in memorial of their ever to be remembered service certain Poetical songs sung by the Graetians how even the 
g Pet. Marti: Dec: 3. Cap. 7.  rude inhabitants of Hispaniola like our ancient Bards have their customary rhymes, Ad praelia excitantes avorum gesta recitando, to quicken their courages by reciting the acts of their forefathers; all which I know Sir Philip Sidney so great a scholar, could not but know: then lo I envy not the Muse's good hap, that had one of Mars his followers to be their Champion: since his worthy deeds and honourable death assure me he would have spared that defence, if he had not assured himself that it was Poetries best use 

h Hora. Od. 8 lib. 4.  Vt dignos laud viros vetet mori.  
To labour that the memory  
of worthy men may never die.   
Sure then I think some thankful Poet, that hath drunk store of Castalian liquor and is full of fury, cannot do better than in requital of his kindness endeavour 
i Idem.  Vt gratus insigni referat Camena, dicenda Musis proe●lia.  
To sing in verse excelling  
wars worth the Muses telling.  
Nor needs he fear to want attention, unless he want a Poet's wit to tell the contents of his book in proem with 

k Luna: lib. 1.  Bella per Aemathios plus quam civilia campos etc.  
I sing the Civil wars tumultuous broils etc.   
Assuredly had it befallen me, 
l Perseus.  in bicipiti somniasse Pernasso, to steal a nap amongst the rest in the top of the mountain, or si quid mea carmina possent, if my verses were of any virtue, I would desire to write some worthy soldiers praise in dust and blood as dù Bartas hoped to do Henry of France his in Pampeluna. But fool that I am.  

m Sir Philip Sidney.  I never drank of Aganippe well  
nor ever did in shade of Tempe sit.  
Nor am I able to persuade our Poets to entreat of wars indeed.  

n Hora: Odd: 6. lib. 1.  Praelia virginum  
Sectis in iwenes unguibus acrium  
Dum cantant vacui.  
While idly they sing the scars  
that young men catch in wenching wars.  
What then, shall soldiers want their due, because I want ability to do them right? shall I not speak what I can, because I cannot speak what I would? no sure, that were injustice, this were folly. Horace can tell.  

o Idem lib: 1. Episto.  Est aliquidprodire tenus, si non datur ultra.  
'tis somewhat to do somewhat, though not well.  
It is enough sore me to break the Ice, and let the world see what may be said for the wars and soldiers when one whose whole kindred almost by Father and Mother lost their lives or spent their livings in the wars, is able through bare love without learning, without Art to speak as fellows in defence of Soldiers.  
I ever thought nothing worse for Gentlemen than idleness, except doing ill, but could not at the first resolve how they might be fitliest busied: To play the Merchants was only for Gentlemen of Florence, Venice, or the like that are indeed but the better sort of Citizens: ploughing and grazing I esteemed worse than mechanical occupations: the Court was but for few, and most of them lived too luxuriously: to study or travel was good, but directed to this end, that they might be fit for some profession the thing in question: For Divinity they many times thought themselves too good, and I was sure they were most times unfit: Law was but a money getting trade, and Physic a dangerous tickle Art, at last I thought on the wars, where the learned might perfect their contemplation by practice and the unlearned help that defect by well gotten experience: and this was my 15 years meditation: afterwards that impression was strengthened daily by the remembrance of my father's courses, by the experience of some other occurrents and by the observation of as many things as my little reading encountered that might make for that purpose. So I grew to affect scholars such as would speak that, that might be understood, and could reduce their study in histories the Mathematics or the like from speculation to practise for the profitable pleasure of their friends or honourable service of their Country. I liked travelers so they would be silent, yet were able when time served to discourse judiciously of the state and power of more Countries, of the strength and situation of more Cities, of the form and force of more several fortifications, than other Corkeheaded counterfeits could reckon up of Bonna robbas Bordeaus or apish fashions: above all the perfection of the endeavours of the former 2. I loved soldiers, such as hated Cheating, Drinking, Lying, whoring, Prating, Quarrelling and lewd behaviour. And either maimed, grown old or wanting employment, had retired themselves to some private (perhaps poor) life, but that they lived contented: and though mine own ability were then in minority, my heart esteemed him not a Gentleman, would suffer such as these to want aught he could help them to: thus I spent the five years following. And now my almost freed body is ready for the wars which I before resolved was most fit for men of my place: But want of employment imposes on me an unacceptable idleness which I sorrily passover with laughing at the lamentable folly of our besotted Gentry; one thinks it is commendation to wear good clothes with judgement, another for that he is a handsome man, a third for cunning carding, but if some youth of hopeful expectation attain some skill in Music, some tricks in Dancing or some Fencing quality, the World consisting most of Women-fooles and cowards will peremptorily pronounce this complete Gentleman's worth too great for one Chronicle.  


p Iwena. Sat. 1.  At quis ferat istas  
Stultiae sordes   

But who can quietly  
Endure such foppery.   
I that desire a man should be more worth than his clothes, the inside best, I that think it my good fortune to have small skill in ga●●ing, I that hate unnecessary qualities, as the 
q Diodor. Sicu. lib. 10. Cap. 3.  Egyptians did Music for making men effeminate, cannot but dislike our Gentry should be of tailors mere creation or spend there time in pastime or make their recreation there vocation, me thinks our Citie-Gentlemen as for their slothful life, 
un Gentle home de ville.  the Frenchmen scoffing term them might for their recreation sometimes read how 
Plutar in vita Dari:  Philip reprehended Alexander's skill in singing. How 
s Ibidem.  Anthisthines condemned Ismenias his playing on the Flute, or the like Examples and so learn to leave misspending of their precious time into too too well affected fruitless courses They might remember how much one 
t Idem in Alexan.  Alexander did in poor 12. years, what 
u Idem in Scipiet Leo Impera cap. 28.78.  Scipio was ere he was twenty four and weghing well how z●ni●-like their actions imitate their Forefathers whose honour they unjustly challenge me thinks they might even hate themselves for letting the world see they have the leisure to spend whole days at cards yet have done nothing worthy memory save idly wasted their wealth to purchase infamy. But you whose Country life hath best affinity with your true calling the wars as least subject to luxury as most affected of ancient Soldiers can you not love hunting because it resembles the wars but you will never leave hunting? 
I. E. Cincinatus alluding to Caesar's speech to the strangers Plutar. in vita Peric.  is there more Music in a stinking curs howling quality than a Drum or Trumpet? will you in these times give men occasion to ask whether your Country have no Men you make so much account of Dogs that your life seems brutish still with Dogs & your discourse unreasonable still of Dogs? O rather let the Example of our Great Great Master that worthily loves hunting as the Noblest sport yet only follows it at vacant times teach you henceforth to use your sports as sports and not still to dwell in them nor in the tedious discourse of them.  
But whither doth contempt of folly carry me? Both th' one & th' other sort of our decayed Gentry, have but the bare name of some ancient house but few sparks of English virtue they are so far from being Gentlemen they neither speak nor live like men, yet if their charmed Senses can endure to hear of remedy as 
* Plutar.  Philip was put in mind of death or 
x Herodat. in Terpsichore.  Xerxes of the loss of Sardis. I'll play the youngman once, and cry to them in the midst of their vain life and idle talking, Remember 
z Plutar. in Pyrrho.  Pyrrhus whose life and study spent and employed in military affairs doth show what course of life best fits the better sort of men, who being asked who played best on the Fluite, Python or Cephesias answered wisely though indirectly, Poliperchon in his judgement was the best Captain to teach the standers-by how noble spirits should discourse. O then remember Pyrrhus, be as you ought yourselves, leave vanity & let your lives your words be warlike, your truest honour will be to be Soldiers, and your most virtuous course of life the wars.  
But alas, as through the indirect proceeding of desperate Censurers, men oft condemn the wars for murdering our men, and wasting our money in lingering fruitlessness, where many times the fault is in our soldiers disability, poor hunger-starved snakes half dead ere they go out of England: such as were a cumber rather than an aid to the ancient romans: such as with our modern 
a Estate of English Fugitives.  Spaniards are sent a year or two to take heart at grass (as we say) in Italy, before they suffer them to come to service, whereas most times the corruptness of Officers (such as seek the wars for gain only, and make no conscience to cousin Princes, and the ignorance of leaders, such decayed unthrifty gallants as to get a little money by the sale, spoil or slaughter of their Companies make means to be favourable sent, from the Court to the Camp, as Commanders, before they know how to obey) are true causes of extraordinary spoil of Treasure, of making the wars seem (if not be, dilatory and fruitless: So on the other side, those officers, those Captains, and those Soldiers, being in their kinds the worse part of our people, are indeed of such invincible lewdness that either dronelike sucking wax only from sweetest flowers, or worse converting holesomest things to poison, they only use the wars as naughty ●en do learning, to increase their wickedness. Pro●●ing the axiom in Philosophy most true, 
b Arist. lib. 2. de A●nimi. Cap. 2.  Quicquid recipitur, recipitur secundum modum recipientis. That which is received, is received according to the quality of the receiver: so that men seeing them spend that most viciously which they got most lewdly are ready grounding themselves on their example to rail at soldiers as a profession of licentious lawless liberty, and repute soldiers for dissolute rakehells in whom there is 
c Lucan: lib. 3.  Nulla fides pietasue, no fear of God, no thought of goodness. Yet as the study of Philosophy was not to be condemned, because some Philosophers were 
d Plutar: libel. contra. Epicu.  Epicures, as the name● of Kings was not to have been hated because Tarquin was a Tyrant: No more I think are soldiers to be contemned or their profession ill esteemed of for that some bawdiehouse Captains or alehouse soldiers live loosely; 
e Tit. Livi. De. 1 lib. 2.  or for that many that follow the wars of our time where discipline is too too much corrupted are such as only live by the wars and so endeavour gain by all the means they can save honest courses: For were our military discipline as in truth it ought of that powerful sanctity that our arms the most perfect politic bodies might for the goodness of their laws and orders and the justness of their exscution, attain their true perfection of surpassing the best ruled Cities in Civility, that our Commanders like the ancient Romans that held their faith more firm with enemies than some men now do nearest bonds of duty and allegiance, might know it is their office to punish even their dearest friends offences, that our soldiers worthily endeavouring in God their Prince or Country's quarrel to exchange their lives for honour only might learn to account it their greatest honour to be an honour to their calling by performing the necessary duties of their calling.  
Then as the romans with their victories drove away barbarism out of our countries by leaving us a pattern of more civil life, from their warlike government, of which most parts of Europe yet to this day retain some remnants I see not but it might please God to reward our industry by making our conquering sword the instruments to plant religion amongst Turks and infidels, and reform the errors of wandering Christians, when they seeing our soldiers such as the 
f Osor. de reb. gestis. Emanus: Histo: lib: 10:  Indians did Albuqueria and his company of Portingalls may steadfastly believe that God omnipotent as they did that King worthy, that hath such virtuous servants: then would our warriors like true ancient soldiers strive to be religious, virtuous, full of honesty, and we might justly think with the 
g Plutar: in. libel. declaratione lib:  Thessalian those of our countrymen most dull and sottish that went not to the wars: or say with the 
h Idem in lib: de dictis et factis Lacaedemo:  Aetolian the war is better far than peace for him that hath a mind to prove an honest man.  
For than our Camp would be a school of virtue where (by dutiful obedience) men should be trained up and taught what appertaind to wise commanding: where religion perhaps the cause of the quarrel should be so fervent, that men would think it their chiefest joy, in midst of greatest miseries, to have the fear of God their meditation and an unspotted life their comfort. For then the memory of Alexander that the night before the battle with 
i Quin●: Courtesan: lib. 2  Darius called for Aristander to win the favour of Gods with sacrifice: or of 
k Virgil. lib. 1  Aeneas. 
— Quo iustior alter  
Nec pi●tate fuit, nec bello maior et armis:  
Than whom there was none more upright  
in goodness, nor more great in fight.  that in Virgil leaves his companions busied, et 

l  Arces quibus altus Apollo  
Praesidet horrendaeque domus Secreta Sibillae  
antrum immane petit etc.  
To high Apollo's temple hies  
and to those dreaded mysteries.  
the horrid vault where Sibil lies etc.   
Or of 
m Tit: Livi: lib. 5 Deca: 1:  Camillus that would begin and end his skermishes with prayers, or of the 
n Pluto: in lib. de Fortuna Roman:  Romans whose victories built Churches, with whom contempt of the Gods was a certain sign of overthrow; would make our soldiers call to mind it is their duty to be as earnest in holy works of piety, as they were zealous in their superstition, they blindly did they knew not what, and though through the souls struggling to ascend from whence it came, there arose some sprakes, that gave them light to see there was ens entium: a power above all human power that looked for reverence, yet wanting means to apprehend that rightly, their best endeavours proved but fruitless works of darkness, but out of doubt our Christian soldiers as they have much more hope, more helps, and more incitements, I do presume are much more truly and more earnestly religious.  
These have assurance grounded on infallible witnesses that they serve the only true and everliving God that gives the victory to them that rightly call upon him for it, 
●eo Imper. Cap: 20: 47: &. 75: & Cap: 18: 18:  and rewards plentifully those that deserve it. These by the orders of their discipline, as helps to their weakness, comforts to their miseries, and Ministers of God's blessings have necessary Levites to perform to them all rites that may prepare them, that are in health and therefore less hindered from being prepared for death that hourly hangs over them. To assure them when they sometimes besieged suffer famine as fearful as that of 
o josc: de bell: jud. lib: 6: Cap: 24: et: 16:  jerusalem, as great as King 
p Plutar: in vitae Lycur::  Sous his soldiers that would not sorbeare drink to gain a Kingdom, yet choose to die miserably, rather than yield to change their faith▪ that that faith shallbe rewarded with a happy crown of Immortality. To teach them that to be sometimes for Christ's cause made gallis●aues, where with the constant spirits of true Christian soldiers they endure afflictions, that would make softehearted men such perhaps as speak against soldiers, even forsake their great captain jesus: is a sure means to gain in exchange of those bonds the freedom of Heaven. To exhort them last of all if by God's merciful preservation when death came a tithing on any side, when multitudes of enemies encompassed them about, they prove the sole remnant of many hundreds, to return to their native Country there to die in peace, that whiles they live they cannot have a better precedent to imitate than the worthy Captain 
q Acts of the Apostles. Cap. 10.  Cornelius.  
Besides these Minesters, these soldiers have the Scriptures, where contemning play books and base pamphlets unfit studies for dying men) they may reading learn to imitate 
r josua. Cap. 7.  josua before the battle, that prayed the Israelites might not be delivered into the hands of the Amorites: or 
s Exod. Cap. 17. verse 11.  Moses in the battle that lifted up his hands to heaven for victory: or 
t Sam. 2. Cap. 22  David after the battle that praised God the author of his conquests with joyful songs of thanksgiving: where they may reading learn to give continually all honour and religious worship to that God 
v Psalm. 144 ver. 1.  That teacheth their fingers to fight and their hands to Battle, even in the midst of their armies from whence he pleases to appropriate unto himself one of his great & glorious titles 
w Issai. Cap. 1 jerem. Cap. 11.  The Lord of Hostes.  
But perhaps some one observing how great 
y Platar: in vita Antoni.  Anthony, did sacrifice himself to luxury, or having read the true cause of 
x Guichard: lib. 3.  Charles the 8 of France his posting pilgrimage to Paris when he should have gone for Naples may think he sees good reason to condemn a soldiers religion as consisting of too much Devotion to she Saints: I must confess the folly of some soldiers in time of Idleness hath given some colour to the fable of Mars and Venus, but I cannot see how the profession, can deserve that imputation: for either that fable is a Poets mere fiction, and so not to be credited, since through their lying madenesse even Heaven i● self is defiled, or else is grounded on some natural cause, and then as Sol and Mercury the Patrons of Poet's Lawyers and the like are in the Celestial Globe nearer to Venus as oft in conjunction and for their natural propriety more concordant, In reason me thinks those Poets, Lawyers, and the like that lead Vitam sedentariam, a quiet life, sleep their fill and eat their meat at due seasons must of necessity be much more subject to incontinency than Soldiers, that may well with 
z Plutar. in vita Scipi.  Scipio contemn lasciviousness, since thinking still how to conquer men, their leisure serves them not to become slaves to women, 
a Mar. Barles. lib. 6.  that may learn of Scanderbreg to live long unmarried and yet most honest, that their bodies may be the stronger and better able to do or suffer what pertains to Soldiers: that may as 
b Plutar. in Peric.  Pericles willed Sophocles even keep their eyes from lusting, their course of life being of such singlnes that they are seldom or never troubled with the sight of women that are last of all daily mortified with cold, hunger loss, of blood, and perpetual labour: so that if 
c Osor. de rebus gestis Emanu. lib. 2.  Henry the maiden-King of Portugal could, they may well be per totum vitae spatium libidinis expertes even all their life time free from incontinent-desires, at least able with 
d Plutar. in Alexan.  Alexander to resist the temptation of a Philoxenes or an Ephestion though their temper were as hot as Alexander's that by reason of heat breathed forth sweet savours.  
And yet not need to cool their complexions with too much liquor: the death of 
e Quint. Curt. lib 5.  Clitus and the burning of Persepolis may assure them Alexander's drunkenness drowned all his other virtues: 
f Lib. 2. de benefic. Cap. 13.  so Seneca pronounced his happy rashness far from fortitude, tainted with cruelty, the badge of Cowardice, and I may well condemn his wisdom for losing the benefit of his victory which 
g Luca. de bell. civili. lib. 6.  Caesar the best Captain thought was only this, victis donare salutem.  
For to bestoe  
Life on the vanquishtfoe.  
It is an idle fond infirmity fit for immodest 
h Quint. Curt. lib. 5.  Babylonish women that first drink then dance etc. or for unwise womenish men lovers I mean twixt whom and drunkards there is such affinity that 
i Heliod. Histo. Aethio: lib. 3.  & in ebrietatem amans, & in amorem ebrius proclivis admodum, the lover is soon drunk, the drunkard apt to be in love: But the overthrow of the victorious 
k justi. Histo. lib. 1.  Scythians in justine hath made me even from the infancy of my reading, afraid to think such weakness should be in a Soldier, as was in those 
l Lib. 2. de reb. gestis joannit.  German●●s Pantaleon speaks of that after many valiant exploits falling to drinking on Saint Martin's day were all slain by the Turks that invaded them, as the Grecians did Troy where the inhabitants were 
m Virgil. lib. 2. Aenea.  vino sommoque sepulti.  
Dead in a deep  
And drunken sleep.  
Let the barbarous 
n Osor. lib. 2. de reb: gest: Emanuel.  Brasilians drink drunk before they enter into consultations, let their light heads be far from bringing forth weighty counsels: but you in whose hands consists the safety of kingdoms, whose affairs stand so tikle that as 
o Lib. 4.  Gui●●ardine observes One commandment ill understood, one order ill executed, one rashness, one 
* The victory lost at Perousa. Guichar. lib. 3.  vain voice even of the meanest Soldier carries oft times the victory to those that seemed vanquished, keep you your wits about you still perfect and still ready to settle unexpected Accidents, though some Usurers' of your names waste their substance as the 
p 
Their Amigdala are their money.  
Pet. Martyr. De● 5. Cap. 4.   west- Indians do their money in their quaffing cups and then like true unthrifts such as was Meligallus a Knight of Rhodes endeavour treacherously post Patrimonium patriam subvertere after the overthrow of their own estates to betray their country; though the weakness of some men be such that they first and surest learn the infirmities of the countries where they live, as some ancient travelers were wont to do lying of the Cret●ans, perfidiousness of the Carthaginians, or effeminatnes of the people of Asia, as some modern do affected gravity of the Spaniard. Revenge and ielous●y of the Italian, and waste and lavish of the French, as some of our Soldiers have done freebooting mutining and the like disorders in the Civil wars of the French Leaguers, as some have and do this carousing quality by serving among the Dutch. Yet let your settled judgements discern a difference twixt virtue and those mentioned vices, let your wisdom direct you to contemn their folly that betray their own by drinking to another's health, let it assure you though somefooles like the 
r Pet. Marty. Dec. 8. cap. 8.  Indian Chirihichenses think him most valiant that drinks most, it can be little praise to you to make your bellies hogsheads, or your brains sponges, you may and aught to show far truer and far greater fortitude by living virtuous Conquerors of such vicious affections that so you may die without fear of death your country's faithful Champions, & go as Plutarch tells of 
s Plutar. in Romul.  Romulus armed to heaven, and 〈◊〉 be as 
t Plut. in vita Solon.  Solon thought of Tellus more happy than the richest King. For this fourscore yeeres-olde 
u Idem in lib. de dict: & fact. Laca●emon.  Hippodamus advised by his king to leave the wars, and turn into his country, replied he knew not where to die more happily than in the wars defending of his country: For this the young unmarried 
x Ibidem.  Grecians part of Leonidas his gallant followers refused to shun a certain danger & return unto their friends in safety, saying they came to fight and not to carry news, For this I cannot choose but attribute great honour to the war, that is of power to make both old and young so honourable.  

y Seine: in t●●g. Agamemnon.  Par ill● Regi, par superis erit  
Qui stiga tristem non tristis vidit.  
He is a King or more than mortal man  
That unappalde, pale death encounter can.  
And they shall be most happy 
ˣ Quos ille Timorum  
Maximus haud urget lethi metus.  
To whom of all fears chief  
The fear of death doth work no grief.   
This is the perfect point of fortitude, this is the hardest point in all Philosophy, yet surest learned by practice and oftenest put in practice in the wars, where private Soldiers like that 
z Lib 22 dereb. gest. Emanuel.  Germane in Osorius will be sore wounded yet not retire till they die or conquer where Captains bury themselves in their own colours or like 
a Montag. lib. 1. Essay. 3.  Bayard fight till death seize on them, yet desire to die with their faces against their enemies; where sometimes both Captain and Soldiers like 
b Apud Thermopilas. Diod. Sicu. lib. 21.  Leonidas and his companions dine with a resolution undismaide, to sup in Heaven, & die all of them so happy, that none remains to carry the unhappy news. These then and such as these are Soldiers, for these are Chronicles, and such as these are (by 
c Plut. in Licur.  Lycurgus laws) esteemed only worthy to have Epitaphs; so now I see why 
d Idem in Pyr.  Pyrrhus trained up his three Sons to be Soldiers; while he himself did live and die a Soldier; and why within 
e Lin. 2. Des recrech dela Franc.  Rome no man might be buried that had not been a Soldier: so now I think when Alexander dying left his crown 
f Q. Curt. & Plut. in Alexan.  dignissimo, unto the worthiest, he did intend a Soldier, when the most Indians of Hispaniola bequeath theirs 
g Pet. Marty. De 3. cap. 9  fortissimo unto the valiantest, they can intend none but a Soldier: and 
h Plutar. in Pyr.  Pyrrhus when he told his Sons he should succeed that had the sharpest sword, did only mean that Son that proved a Soldier: for why? should Pyrrhus have resigned his Sceptre to a Son as john of Armenia did to a brother belli ignaro viro, 
Pantal de reb. gest. joannit. lib. 4.  a man unexperienced in military affairs, there might have well be feared a desolate subversion of his state like that, that thereon followed, in the Kingdom of Armenia. But he that saw the Romans grow from small beginnings to a mighty nation by continual war, and found that for increasing of their fame, riches and power, their love was settled on the war; had reason to train up and seek to leave an heir that might maintain his quarrel and resist the Romans force with force, their war with war: and having so established his Throne, plenty of suitors would have come from neighbouring Princes if not for love, for fear, if not for fear, for profits sake, to win such a succeeders Amity. For as it is reported of 
k Pet. Martyr. Dec. 3. Cap. 3.  Tubanama an Indian King, that he protested solemnly, he ever loved the Spaniards, because he heard their swords were sharper far than his: so I remember when at the self-same time, the several provinces of 
l Plutar: in Pelopid.  Graecia, sent several Ambassadors to the Persian Artaxerxes, whose friendship all affecting, all endeavoured by all the means they could to gain: the King did voluntarily prefer the Theban cause and Pelopid●s suit before the rest, because the fame went they were the best practised of & most skilful soldiers of all the rest, little respecting the power of the Athenians, or the wealth or number of other of the Cities, who for want of military practice, neither knew how to use their number, nor their powerful wealth: so then for power in the war it is, one Kingdom is preferred before an other, and strangers evermore do most respect those strangers that are warriors.  
The poor Artificers, the Mechanic Swissers were not long since of most mean estimation till that provoked by an injury of 
m Histor. de Co●mes. Liure. 5. Chap. 2  Charles the last Duke of the house of Burgundy like horses ignorant of their own strength they entered the field and got a victory whose sweetness so enticed them on to continue in that course to such there advantage, that since that time some of the greatest 
n Histoire des Dernies. troubls: liur. 2  Princes of Christendom have vied thousands of Crowns to gain their freindeshippe, that in the wars of 
o Guiehard: Histo.  Italy the victory did ofttimes follow their inclination, that last of all, all Europe at this day respects them well, and him the better whose friends they profess themselves.  
Thus the lowcountrimen (a name not many years agone unknown) were once 
p Baptist: Lenchi: in politicis observat.  reputed a dull lazy yea a base Nation of poor handicrafts men, contemned of their neighbouring enemies & respected of their friends no further than necessity enforced, yet after that as they profess their Lord's severity had forced them against their wills to take up weopons for their own defence, they in short time redeemed so their reputation that their most powerful neighbours were content to undergo invirious imputations for protecting them, whom men that looked a squint upon the cause esteemed too much disobedient, 
The King of France and Queen of England.  & since that time the war that gave life to their force hath so increased their might, that for this but on part of their power their strength at sea, 'tis thought they cannot want good friends to back them.  
Since then the benefit of power skill and practise in the war is such that by it the poor have grown rich, the weak strong, and those that were reputed vile have got an honourable reputation, since all sorts of men are either through fear earnest or through love willing to entertain friendly amity with those especially that are renowned for it, since last a Commonwealth through it may grow from small beginnings to unlooked for height as that of 
q Tit: Livi: De: 3. ilib. 2.  Rome, audendo et agendo, by daring and doing rose from nothing to be Masters of the world, who is he that remembers how 
r Plutar: in Romul: vita.  Romulus even in Rome's infancy, did lay foundations of Rome's greatness, by choosing out of his followers, those that were able to bear arms to be enrolled into legions, that will not wish if he wish well to his Country, that his country's governors would provide so, for their Cities that they may never want soldiers to fight for them so long as they have Citizens to dwell within them. For my part when I remember how the 
s Rosin: Romani Antiquitat: lib. 10. Cap: 11.  Roman state, as it increased in power did evermore increase the well deserved respect it bore to soldiers, so that though while the weakness of their poor beginning lasted they only gave them titulary rewards triumphs to generals, and to each private soldier that deserved it a several Garland, yet in the year of their cities age 347, at the taking of Anxur the Wolsces Town, they ordained for them a certain pay e publico which was augmented aftetwardes by Caius Gracchus and doubted after him by julius Caesar, so that in process of time besides the gift of the government of infinite Towns Provinces and Kingdoms, besides the sending forth of 
t Idem lib: 2●. Cap. 23.  Colonies one chief use whereof was Vt praemijs milites veterani afficerentur: that old soldiers might be rewarded, and besides the ordinary allowance for those legions that lived in Rome, the Emperor 
u Sueto: in Aug: vita:  Augustus allotted out certain portions of land for those that had been soldiers to maintain them in a continual readiness to do him and their Country service.  
When I remember how in Imitation of those Romans the ancient Kings of the 
* Lui: 2: de● Recerch: de la Fran:  Gauls gave to their soldiers Manors in the Country where they lived as Lords over the peasants their Tenants, and were tied to come with a certain number of followers according to the quality of their land to serve as voluntaries at their own charge so long as the war lasted, a custom yet observed by their offspring the Gentry of France: when I remember how perhaps in imitation of those Gauls, William the Conqueror gave to his followers our Gentry's Ancestors distinct circuits in sundry places of several Lands of inheritance▪ one of the heirs of which distribution is reported since that time to have produced a rusty sword as the evidence by which he held his living: when I remember how the Kings of France used Knighting and when that was corrupted in the Civil wars of the houses of 
x Lecerch. de la Fran.  Burgundy and Orleans invented new orders of Knighthood, as new honours to reward soldiers: When last I call to mind how gentlemen and their Coats of Arms took their original from the wars as may appear by 
z Lib. de. vanit: scienti.  agrippa's observation that in Heraldry the best coats consist of savage beasts to testify the bearers nobility gotten by his courage: as saith he, the Goths carried a Bear, the Saxons a Horse, the Romans an Eagle, the Cimbri a Bull, and each particular Gentleman thinks it nothing honourable to carry a Sheep, a Lamb, a Clafe, or such like peaceable creature that is not Militiae signum, a token of warfare; Then my zeal to the wars and my love to soldiers is so revived that I can scarce forbear wishing, that in Engiand as in Scythia none might drink of the feasting cup, or as in Carmania none might marry that had not slain an enemy to his country: or as among the Turks that none might be esteemed noble for Antiquity, but for their proper virtue: or as old decrepit men were used among the 
a Lib. 2. Cap. 3.  Trogloditae mentioned in Diodorus Siculus, that each young scapethrift that is Telluris inutile pondus, a burden to the earth that can do nothing well, save that that is passing ill might be tied by the neck to an Ox's tail and so strangled as well worthy so shameful a death for doing nothing worthy of life. But on later and wiser consideration I find it nothing comely that a Civil Country should break her own customs to imitate a barbarous people, yet even these examples with those before mentioned may lively testify how necessary all antiquity esteemed Pramiaet honores rewards and honours, to nourish and hold up the Art of war, one of the chiefest pillars of a Commonwealth I cannot therefore but most seriously wish that our King a worthy in the worthiest kind of Learning as he is the flower of two Stems of most renowned warlike ancestors, whom God hath given us, 
b Sam. 1. cap. 8. ver. 20.  To go out before us and fight our battles, to whom the King of King's 

c Virg: Aeneid: lib. 1.  Et mulcere dedit fluctus et tollere ventos.  
Gives power as well as to appease  
with calms, with storms to stir the seas.   
Would when it shall please his wisdom add life, I mean practice to our Militia that oft dies at least decay much through secure idleness, and that then the pay of England that is as honourable as any Nations may not be detained from or gelded before it come to the hands of poor soldiers by base unworthy Captains, nor the due of honest Captains be with held or lessened through the fraudulent corruption of Decitefull officers; but that severity of military discipline may be revived to cut of those rotten members, those adulterate counterfeits whose basins hath made true soldiers contemptible, and that true soldiers even in times of peace may be as much respected as their virtuous worth deserves.  
For then as by 
d Plutar: in Lycur.  Lycurgus institution it was in Sparta our free noble spirits will betake them to the sword & lance, & leave all other occupations unto white livered men: than our young men will exercise themselves as 
e Idem in Corio. lan.  Coriolanus did, in running, wrestling, riding, and the like warlike sports: and our old men shall be fathers of great experience: so that with us as with the 
f Osor: lib. 5. de reb. guessed: Emanuel.  Brasilienses the young men shall execute valiantly, the wise Counsel of the old men: then our gentlemen remembering in what fought field, or for what special service their Ancestors received their badges of honour, will fall to imitate those honourable Ancestors and knowing how poor a credit 'tis ᵍ Aliorum incumbere famae, for to rely on other men's desert will strive rather to have Effigies tot bellatorum, the images of their warlike ancestors, living in their hearts than dead and smoke dried in their houses: 
h Plutar: in Marcell:  Then our countrymen like Marcellus in Rome or the 
i Idem in Pyrrh:  Mamertines in Sicily, may perhaps have honourable name derived from Mars: Then it may be as many of one name as were of 
k Montag: Liure 2. Essay. 42.  Williams at our King Henry the second his sons feast in Normandy, or as many of one family as were of the 
l Camde: Br●ita: in Richmond.  Medcalfes at on assize in Richmondshire will vow themselves like the 300. Fabiuses in Rome to fight for their Country: 
m Tit. Livi: De: 1. lib: 2.  at least we shall have many brethren, (noble slips of some noble stock) that like the Norrisses of honourable memory, will strive to be famous for dying valiant soldiers in the bed of honour, rather than infamous like some beasts unworthy to be named in the same discourse For their noted idle, if not worse life. Then we shall have many Captains, such as were the greeks and Romans, and our soldiers shall be as much renowned for valour, honesty and mutual love as was the holy band at 
n Plutar. in Pelopid.  Thebes: And then now conquests shall make forreinors ashamed to laugh at us when we tell of our forefathers victories in France, and our displayed ensigns shall keep us from blushing at our slothful life: For then those true soldiers that whiles the wars serve but as sinks to rid away Purgamenta urbium, lie hid like Diamonds heaped-up in dunghills covered with weeds, shall be as rich Gems set in gold and worn and beautified by the comfortable reflex●ion of the rising Suns smiling beams, and in the mean time this may their comfort though like old English words they be now out of use, yet 

o Hora de arte poetica.  Multa renascentur quae nunc c●cidere cadentque  
Quae nunc sunt in honore.   
They will be in request that are neglected, and they contemned that are now respected.  
The time will come their country will leave fawningly to offer up her wealth to those her unworthy children that live by sucking dry their Parent's blood, and rather motherlike respect those sons that are her Champions, and seek to purchase her ease with painful industry, her honour with effusion of their blood, her safety with loss of life.   

The fourth Paradox.  

Lucan. 1.  Et multis utile bellum.  
That war sometimes less hurtful, and more to be wished in a well governed State than peace.  
Sweet I know is the name of peace, more sweet the fruition, to those ease-affecting men that foolishly imagine it the greatest point of wisdom to enjoy the benefit of present time, though one of better iudgmet tell them: 
a Ter: in Adelph: Act: 3: sce. 3.  Isthuc est sapere, non quod ante pedes modo est videre, sedetiam illa quae futura sunt prospicere.  
'tis wisdom not to cast our eyes  
On that, that just before us lies,  
But to foresee and to provide  
For harms that one day may betide.  
Some others without respect of public benefit, measuring the happiness of the state wherein they live by their own particular contentment do most eagerly make war against war, the apparent enemy to Persiam luxury, whose sworn slaves they live. And besides these the greatest part of men, blinded like these, do tremble at the name of war, for fear of his companion charge: not unlike some wretched penny-fathers, that in time of this our contagion, by resisting contributions fitting for the ordering of infected persons, are oft occasion of impoverishing themselves and their whole town, of endangering their own and many hundred honester men's lives.  
But if it may appear on better deliberation, that the war, 
b La Roque. li. 1. Du mamniement: de l' art militaire.  Est de long temps & continue encor, & durera en sa force iusqu a la fin du monde Is of great antiquity, continues yet, and will remain in full force to the ending of the world, so that we may well put it of, but cannot put it away, since like a torrent of waters it rises as occasion forceth here & there, and may a while be stayed, but increasing so, breaks out in the end more violently, and as Virgil saith, 

c Virgil: lib. 2. Aeneid.  Sternit agros, sternit sata laeta boumque labores  
Praeeipitesque trahit siluas etc.  
The fields it overflows, the corn is drowned.  
Plowmen their labour loose, trees fall on ground etc.   
Then it brings with it a confused desolation, whereas without danger at the first, it might have passed on by little and little in a continuate quiet course. If it may appear, that luxurious idleness is much more to be feared than those monstrous bugbearers words I sometimes hear alleged to dissuade men from the wars, the mere inventions of faint-hearted and effeminate men, that they may have some colour for their dishonourable sloth. If last of all it may appear, that in a just and good quarrel, which cannot likely want a war wisely managed, cannot but be infinitely profitable: I think there is none that honours his King, wishes well to his country, or desires fame; but will far prefer the shedding of his blood, to procure his King's honour, his country's safety, or his own reputation, before the sordid sparing, lazy living, or foolish delaying of those blinded men I mentioned.  
For my own part, I ever disliked those patient pleasing chirurgeons that with fond mildness suffer small hurts to fester, & grow dangerous: I ever feared lest temporising (like looking on our neighbours burning house) would suffer the fire to come home to our own doors, and then I fear our poor loving sheep will too late see, they only fed themselves fat for the slaughter, when men most resolute, shall rather be, determinate to do, than skilful how to. Then I fear our conquests past will little profit us, when ease like rust in our Armour shall have eaten into and corrupted our valour when by discontinuance of practice, we shall be unapt for service, yea by reason of the often change of the course of our wars directly ignorant, and that ignorant unaptness will dismay the most confident: Then it may be feared we may too late repent our former negligence, our secure idleness, our sparing of a little to the endangering of all, when we see ourselves at length enforced to undergo the danger with disadvantage which in time with odds, our side we might easily have repelled: then we may wish we had imitated the Romans wisdom, that foresaw inconveniences a far of, and would not to avoid present wars, suffer mischiefs to grow-on, 
d Machiavelli: Princ: cap. 2.  they invaded Philip and Antiochus in Graecia lest otherwise they might have been enforced to deal with them in Italy. But my words perhaps are to these peace-lovers as wind that shakes no corn, assuredly I know it hard to dissuade bewitched men from ease and pleasure, two seducing Sirens in whose beastly servitude too too many are enthralled past recovery: yet those worthy spirits in whose breasts the sparks of our forefather's courage are not yet extinguished whose swelling hearts are ready to protest their English virtue hates effeminate, longs to show itself in some laborious course of valiant industry: They I doubt not will soon call to mind how dishonourable it was to the 
e justin. Histor: lib. 6.  Egyptians under Ptolemy: Depositis militiae studijs, otio & desidia marcescere. To pine away in sloth and idleness, neglecting military profession, or how unprofitable it was to the 
f Idem lib. 3.  Lydians to live in peace. Quae gens industria quondam potens, & manustrenua, effaeminata mollitie, luxuriaque virtutem pristinam perdidit: which nation was once famous for valour and industry, but they drowned the reputation of their ancient virtue in effeminate and luxurious delicacy. And with a feeling remembrance of those or the like examples, pray with me that those, and the like inconveniences fall not on us: that we may not suffer our enemies or neighbours to grow too mighty, whilst carelessly we ourselves wax weak and degenerate through sloth and case, under the colour of a quiet life: I doubt not but their hopes are like to mine. For as that great Captain 
g Plutarch: in vita Pyrrh.  Pyrrhus did in some particulars well correct the vain urine voluptuous life of the Tarentines, so since God hath given us a Governor as valiant as, but much more wise than Pyrrhus: I hope, and my hope is strengthened with confidence, that that valour will incite, that that wisdom will direct our King, to take in hand the reformation of our idle life, more dangerous than that of the Tarentines: In better manner and to better purpose, than did that Pyrrhus. A work worthy a King, that can be worthily effected by none, but such a King, in whom there is all worthiness. But here me thinks I hear some object to me the successful felicity of the peaceable Reign of our late Queen, whose happy memory, and ever to be admired government, far be it from my thankful thoughts to touch with the least tittle of disgrace, whose wisdom such objectors too too saucily diminish producing her as an enemy to Military profession: her sex indeed, and in her later time fullness of days might well excuse far greater ease; yet see (that which these blind men stumble over) from the first to the last in several parts of Christendom, she ever found means to train up her better and more forward subjects in variety of service; that so they might prove good members of her Estate, and profitable servants for her potent Successor: So wise men know, besides that many dangers were kept far of, this Realm was still tolerably furnished with skilful soldiers, and prudently rid of many inconveniences: yet I must confess the open show of peace bred divers corruptions, yet such as all States how ever wisely governed where peace is are of necessity subject to.  
Who seeth not to what riot in apparel, to what excess in banqueting, to what height in all kind of luxury, our country was grown, when the flower of England, the gentry and better sort, whom the meaner strove to imitate, for the most part idly, if not lewdly brought up, confirmed in their dissolute life, by superfluity of ill example, became so exceeding foolish, that he which eat good meat, and ware good clothes, and did some one thing worse, was ordinarily amongst them accounted most happy: How many of our elder brothers consumed whole and goodly patrimonies at dice and cards, having no other means to pass their time, as I have oft times heard divers of them penitently (but too late) complain: how many of our younger brothers in all sorts of riotous expenses, did in small time consume their portions, which otherwise employed in virtuous courses might soon have equalled their elder brother's sons, and then exclaiming against their parents, that dealt indeed too well with such ungracious children, fell to lewd courses, and oft times came to such untimely ends as I shame to tell: and of both these, the likeliest plants to prove were most of all perverted, the spirits of best hope, did soonest step awry.  
So 
h Plutar: in Caesa: vita.  Caesar in his younger days, was most prodigal, he grew indebted 700. thousand crowns. So 
i Idem. in Cym●: vita.  Cimon in his former time was most riotous, and for it defamed thorough the whole City of Athens: yet see, the wars redeemed the one & he became a most renowned General: the wars reclaimed, the other & he proved as valiant as Themistocles, as wise as was Milciades. Thus we may read that Silla, Alcibiades, and divers other carried themselves most lasciviously, most wanton in peace, till the wars taught them to live like soldiers: And like these (I think) some of our countrymen, for spirit no whit inferior to Caesar, nor towardness to Alcibiades, might in time have proved renowned soldiers and extraordinary instruments of their country's honour, had they not for want of employment, to our public loss, and their private overthrow, spent their younger years like Cimon in riotous behaviour, and their age like Lucullus in luxurious idleness: so that Juvenal had he lived in their time might have truly said.  

k Juvenal: lib: 2. sat. 6.  Nunc patimur longae pacis mala, saevior armis  
Luxuria incubuit. etc.  
Now we endure the discommodity  
Of our long peace oppressed by luxury.  
worse far  
than war.  
But these were such whose finer mould was uncapable of drudging courses, who perhaps as 
l Cap. 1. Deca. 6.  Peter Martyr observes of the Spaniards, thought it Specialem nobilium praero gativam ut otiosi, ac sine ulla exercitatione praeterquam bellicavitam degerent. The special privilege of a gentleman to live solitarily, free from all professions, save that of arms. This was indeed an ancient custom of our Gentry, till peace made some, of Gentlemen become Boors, who forgetting that their truest honour came by arms, lived as they said to themselves, some graziers, some ploughmen, all basely sweeting in the pursuit of dross, hating the name of honour because it asked cost, and such as these robbing poor farmers of their practice, like weeds in untilled land, have and still do spinge up in peace the patron of their baseness, yet such as these might call to mind what Civil contention, rest and want of foreign wars occasions, they might remember bow many have been utterly undone by unnecessary law brabbles, weighing well the number of those that have shot-up deciding such controversies, men I know whose laborious study deserves much commendation, but when I think how 
m In Timoleon: vita.  Plutarch praises the Cornithians whose temples were adorned not with the spoils of the Grecians, their friends, their neighbours, unhappy memories, but decked with trophies of their victories against the barbarous people their adversaries; then I wish those necessary members of peace, whose good parts I reverence, had rather gotten their wealth by the sword from foreign enemies, like our worthy Ancestors, than so to have grown great, through their countrymen's contentions.  
Now besides this private contention whose nurse is peace, even that peace is oftimes mother of more perilous dissension, when idleness ministers each active humour fit occasion of working, to the endangering of diseased, to the distempering of most healthful bodies, when quite security gives busy heads leisure to divide the commonwealth into contentious factions; so that as in 
n jin Solon: vita.  Solon's time at Athens, the people of the mountains desiring this form of government, the men of the valleys that; to both which the inhabitants of the sea-coast maintain a contrary: all catch hold of the opportunity peace offers to plot, and put in practise their several projects for the advancement of their particular, though with the weakening of the public state, and in the end like 
o Idem in Pyrrho.  Pyrrhus' disordered elephants, some running backward, some forward, and the rest standing still, the confusion of their actions me thinks resembles well the Indian dannce described by 
p Nova novi orbis historia. lib: 2. Cap: 16.  Benzo where diverso modo singuli vestiuntur et alij hoc, alij illo modo corpus circumagunt, nonnulli crura at tollunt, aliqui brachia, alius caecum, alius surdum effingit, rident alij, alij plangunt etc. Where all are clothed after sundry fashions, one turning his body this way, another that way, some lifting up their legs, some their arms, one playing the blind man, another the deaf, some laughing, some weeping etc. But the danger of these differences is the greater because not sensible, till strangers that grow through them courageous, take the advantage of them, and then too late we may remember Liuies warning by the example of 
q Ti: Liu: lib: 4: Deca: 1.  Ardea that such dissension hath been more hurtful to sundry Cities, than fire, famine sickness or the sword, or what other calamity can be imagined while we too soon forget the last advertisement dying 
r Mar: Barles: in vita Scanderb:  Scanderbag gave his son, in these words worthy to live ever. Nullum tampotens validumque imperium quod non corruat quandoque ubi mutuis odijs praebetur locus. There is no government so well established, that will not suit itself, if once it harbour partial emmieties.  
These enmities have been instruments in most Countries overthrows, they overtake us in our security like secret fires in the night, and are therefore more to be feared, they steal on us by degrees hidden in the deepness of our rest, like the consumption in a body unpurged, unexercised, that is indeed less painful yet proves more mortal than most diseases; they are as plentifully bred in peace 
s Diod: Sicu: lib. 2 Cap. ●.  as Crocodiles in Egypt, and would in time prove as pr●uitious, but God that for man's good provides the Ichneumon to destroy the eggs of the one before they be hatched, hath left us a perfect remedy to dissipate the other, if we be not to ourselves defective; to wit, foreign war, a sovereign medicine for domestical inconveniences, whereby those stirring heads that like the 
t justin: Histor. lib. 44.  Spaniards Bellum quam otium malunt, ideoque si desit extraneus domi hostem quaerunt. Desire war rather than quietness, and therefore fall out at home if foreign foes be wanting: shall have more honest and more acceptable means to busy themselves, when as 
u Lib. 9 de reb: gest. Emanuelis.  Osorius saith: Commune periculum facile omnium animos ab intestinis seditionibus avocabit, ad commune malum propulsandum: The general danger will soon withdraw men's minds from intestine garboils to resist the general mischief, both which appeared in that wise proceeding of the 
w Plutarch: in Coriola: vita.  Senate of Rome in Coriolanus time that by this means appeased all divisions, even then when as 
y Lib. 2. Deca. 1.  Livy observes heat of contention betwixt the people and nobility had made, Ex una civitate duas: Of one o●e two Cities. For the populousness of that City, by reason of their peace occasioning a dearth and famine, and their idleness stirring up lewd fellows to exasperate the desperate need and envious malice of the meaner sort, against the nobility, whose pride & luxury grown through sloth intolerable, caused them to contemn and injury the poorer people, in the end the fire broke forth hard to be quenched, and then the Senate having as I may say bought wit by this dear experience, were at length enforced to fly to this medicine, which wisely applied before, had well prevented all those causes, and their unhappy effects. Then they resolved on a war with the Volsces to ease their City of that dearth, by diminishing their number, and appease those tumultuous broils, by drawing poor with rich, and the mean sort with the Nobility, into one camp, one service, and one self-same danger: sure means to procure sure love and quietness in a contentious Commonwealth, as that of Rome was at that time.  
Yet even then there wanted not home tarrying housdoves, two peacebred tribanes Sicimus and Brutus, hindered that resolution calling it cruelty, and it may be some now will condemn this course, as changing for the worse: some that will much mislike a body breaking-out should take receipts of quicksilver or mercury, that may endanger life: yet they cannot but know even those poisons outwardly applied are sovereign medicines to purge and cleanse, and therefore having a good Physician, I must profess, I think it much better to take yearly Physic, when the sign is good and circumstances are correspondent, that may work with some little trouble, our health and safety, than through sordid sparing, or cowardly fear of pain, to omit happy opportunities of remedy, & so suffer our bodies perhaps crazy already, so to sink that death follows or at least some grievious sickness, ask far deeper charge, bringing far greater torment, especially since the sickness of a state, were it as great as a palsy may by a skilful Physician be purged and evacuated at an issue in some remote part.  
I cannot but therefore commend 
x Plutarch: in Camill: vita.  Camillus' wisdom for besieging the City of the Faleriens, though it were so strongly situated, so well stored with victual, and so fortified with all manner of munition, that the secure Citizens walked up and down the City in their gowns, since not regarding the winning of the Town as appeared, by his overslipping weighty advantages his intent, only was to keep his Countrymen busied about some thing, lest otherwise repairing to Rome they might grow through peace and idleness seditious, & so raise some civil tumult: This was as Plutarch well observes a wise remedy, the Romans ever used to disperse abroad like good Physicians the ill humours that troubled the quiet state of their Commonwealth: Ce qui s' est antrefecis pratique ' apres les gueres civiles des Anglois, which hath been sometimes put in practice after the civil wars of England, as 
z Discourse: politi: 9  Master La Noüe delivers.  
If then those men that marvel how Philip the second that wanted not his oversight was ever able to possess Spain in tolerable quietness, his people having been of old time as their dealing with the Romans shows of a rebellious disposition, the continuance whereof made 
a The Paraenetical discourse.  Ferdinand of Portugal refuse to be their King, and 
b Ibidem.  john the second wish a wall as high as heaven betwixt his people and them, which turbulency continues yet, even in the better of them, how ever some maintain the contrary, as some years past was manifest, by the ambitious and seditious pride of Alanso julian Romero and some other Spanish Captains, when Don john of Austria consulted for passing his army out of the Low-countries into Italy, as hath not long since sundry times appeared by the mutinous revolts of his 
c In the Low-countries 2000 at one time. Estates of English Fugitives.  oldest soldiers for want of pay: If yet I say those men that marvel so, would by that rule of the Romans examine that Phillip's proceedings in imitation of his father Charles the fi●●t, It will evidently appear that he procured the place of spain and his own safety by keeping his active subjects in continual employment, far from home, where their Eaglelike piercing eyes might not come to pry into his Actions, nor maliciously observe the distates his government occasioned.  
He did not forget that the Statute of 
d Plutarch: in Peric.  Pericles was graven with a helmet on to hide the deformity of his onion-like head, nor that that 
e Ibidem.  Pericles sent 60. Galleys every year to sea, and many hundreds of men away by land, to rid his City of idle persons: but making use of both, received the fruit of both, besides this further benefit, that as weeds in England prove oft good salads in France, those his male contented and suspected subjects, while they were at home, by their industrious life under severity of Military Discipline became of good members, and were for their experience not unworthily accounted as ready soldiers as most in Christendom, which opinion was undoubtedly a great strength to king Phillip's enterprises, making the temporising Venetians and other States of I●a●●●ore ●ore afraid than needed.  
Then howsoever some may be dissuaded by 
f Appian.  Cato's lively demonstration of Carthage too near neighbourhood, from drawing on us such an enemy as may in less than three days sailing knock at the gates of our great City: and others in remembrance of some actions past, may seem to dislike sending our forces so far from home that for want of fresh supply of men or other necessaries, the voyage how auspicious soever the beginning be, wanting sure footing, must of necessity prove as a fading bubble: I for my part leaving the election of our wars as a matter scarce fit to be thought on by so young a head as mine, to the mature consultation of our Senate, and judicious resolution of our Sovereign, with more loyal zeal to my King and Country, than love (which I confess is great) to the wars, wish, and with faith wish, that our settled state may reap infinite commodity by that 
g La Nove Discour. polit: & military. 9  politic rule, grounded on Ccipio Nasicaes desire to have Carthage stand, that for the reasons Scipio then alleged, wills every Kingdom to provide itself an enemy as the 
h Machiavelli: Prin: cap. 29.  Romans had many whose fall was their advancement, as the 
i Plutarch. in vita Alcibiad.  Athenians had them of Samos whose invasion appeased their domestical tumults, as last of all the 
k justin: Histor. lib. 7.  Macedonians had the Thracians and Illirians: Quorum armis, veluti quotidiana exercitatione indurati gloria bellicae laudis finitimos terrebant: With whose hostility as with a daily exercise they were so hardened that their neighbours lived in awe of their renowned valour: that so fear of the enemy may keep our people from ease and luxury, the fatal ruin of States and Countries, yea sometimes 
l As Annibals at Capua.  conquering Armies that dealing with that enemy in imitation of 
l Quint: Curt. lib. 6.  Alexander after Darius' overthrow, our men of war may be so trained and kept in ure that for want of practise the life of all Arts, but most necessary, in the most necessary Art of war, our warlike discipline decay not, and so sink, if not the estate, yet the honour of our state and Country.  
But here whether to have one and the same still or rather variety of enemies be more requisite would ask a more particular discourse to decide, 
o Plutarch: in vita Lycur.  than this general Paradox may admit: Lycurgus knowing the inestimable benefit of military practice, was desirous his people should have war but not with one and the same Nation lest they might be blamed as 
p Ibidem & in lib: de dict: et fact: Lacad.  Ag●silaus was by Antalcidas, for making the Thebans against their wills by continual invading them to his own hurt, skilful soldiers; yet some may think it best grappling with one whose strength we know, whom by conquering we know how to overcome, whose fashions our soldiers are used to, but I dare not speak all I could, lest my meaning be applied as I would not, this I say, since it was truly said of the Romans, 
q Ti: Livi: lib. 3. Dec. 1.  Magis bellantes quam pacati habuerunt deos propitios: That they were more fortunate in war than peace: It was wisely (I think) feigned of 
r Plutar: in Romul.  Romulus that the Gods told him his City should prove the mightiest in the world, so it were raised by wars, and increased by arms, and well confirmed afterwards by 
s Ibidem.  Proclus, delivering the same to the people as a message from Romulus after his Deifiing to persuade them indeed to war, which this politic Roman and that worthy king foresaw was like to be most beneficial for them: this I say, since 
t Lib: de utilit: capiend: ex hostibus.  Plutarch rightly says that Cities by warring with their neighbours, become wise in their carriage and learn to affect good government: it was not unwisely done of Robert the second of Scotland to will his Peers and subjects in his last will and Testament, to have peace never above 4 years together in respect of the benefit he had found and should receive by continual excercise in military matters.  
That then I may shut up this short and slight discourse seeing that to speak of peace perpetual in this world of contention, is but as Aristotle's foelix, Xenophons' Cyrus, Quintilian's Orator, or Sir Thomas More's Utopia, a matter of mere contemplation, the war being in this iron age 
u La Rocque livi. 1: du maniement de l' Art militaryre.  si bienenracinèe qui' il est impossible del l' en oster, Si non avec la rume de l' universe. So well engrafted that it is impossible to take it away without a universal destruction: seeing that the quarrels of this world are either of Christians against Turks, and infidels, in defence of Christ Crucified, which ought never, and I assure myself shall never be extinguished till the names of those dogs be clean extirpated: or between Chrians, with such inveterate malice and irreconcilable wrongs for titles so intricate, as in man's wit is to be feared will never be appeased, satisfied, decided, seeing that many of the Princes of this world, though they talk of peace and amity to win time, till their projects come to full ripeness, serving their turns with that sweet name which they know is likely to blindfold ease-affecting people, yet in their hearts desire nothing less: when as some of them weakened with the violent courses of their hereditary ambition, that can never be tamed, seek peace as a breathing only to recover strength: others warily repecting our increased greatness, and their own unsettled state make fair shows now, but are like enough here after upon advantage to prove false hearted: others having gotten much wealth, gained much reputation, increased their power, and maintained their liberty by the sword, will never endure the loss of these by hearkening to peace, since last there never wanted coulorable pretences to break those truces, that like the 
* Just: Histo: lib. 42.  Parthians promises are only observed, quatenus expedit, as far as is expedient, and made like that of the 
y Ti. Livi: lib: 8. Deca. 1.  Samnites who entertained peace with the Romans, non quod pacem volebant, sed quia non erant parati ad bellum: not that they desired peace, but because they were unprepared for war.  
Let me not be blamed if I speak what I think, and as the scope of this discourse directs, deliver, that is more safe and honourable (making a league with some of them, so that necessity of state may force them to be faithful) to keep some other of them at the swords point, while fearing our strength, or their own feebleness, cauponantur pacem, they but chaffer for peace, rather than by temporising give them time to turn tables, and fall on us, when our leaders shall be waxed old, and the number of them much diminished, when our best soldiers shall be raw Besognios brought to some execution of importance, before they were fit to learn what was fitting for them to do, when our discipline corrupt before shallbe clean rotten and as little worth as our cankered rusty weapons at a day of service, when our ships of war one of the greatest strengths & honours of our kingdom, shall for covetous desire of gain, be easilier in one year turned to hois of Burden, than can be reduced back again, to do our Country service in an other 5 and 40. when our seamen shallbe few, and skilful only in their own ordinary course, passing directly as they are bound at best seasons: where as long voiges, living at sea, variety of weathers, change of Climates, searching and sounding all harbours, bays, creeks, and corners, with ships well stored with men, is it that brings forth store of skilful Masters, skilful pilots, skilful Mariners, when last of all our people shallbe more luxurious through such dangerous security, more contentious among themselves, more careless of the honour of the State, and in conclusion more ready to receive some fatal overthrow than ever heretofore.  
These therefore and infinite other weighty considerations spinging freshly out of my zealefull regard of my country's welfare, and the desire I have to adventure the shedding of my blood might I be once so happy in my King's service, makes me with fervency of spirit wish his majesty may ever have as 
x Guichard: Histo: lib. ●.  Charles the 8 of France had once, Infinite multitudes of men, resolute of minds, for service apt, of faith assured, of wills tractable, for commandment obedient, and lastly bearing all one common desire, to com● their lives to any danger for the glory and greatness of God & their King. And that our commonwealth may never want many such worthy Patriots as will valiantly when time serves, hazard themselves, their friends, and their best fortunes, in painful industry to procure their country's assured safety, that their example may make our Gentry ashamed of their much dissolute, degenerate dishonourable courses, the scoffing stock of proud contemning foreign Nations, that so desiring earnestly to show the world their swords can cut as keen as their forefathers, by this first step to such desire, they may profess with me and that with constancy, 

z Hor: sat. 1.  Militia est potior:  
the war  
is better far:  
Pulchrumque mori succurrat in armis. 
Virgil: Aeneid: X.   
And think how worthily  
they die that armed die.   
FINIS.