THE HISTORY OF THE Turkish War WITH THE Rhodians, Venetians, Egyptians, Persians, and other NATIONS. BEING A Compact Series of the memorable Battles, Sieges, and progress of the Ottoman Armies in Europe, Asia, and Africa, for near an hundred years: With their various success by Sea and Land. But a Relation more particularly of the first Bloody Siege of Rhodes, in the Reign of Mahomet the Great, Emperor of the Turks; and the last under the command of Solyman the Magnificent, who, at the expense of an 100000 Lives, totally subdued that famous City and Island, defended by the Valour of the Renowned Peter Aubusson, Grand Master of Rhodes, and the Christian Knights of the Order of St. John, against the whole Power of the Ottoman Empire, for 230 Years. With a Pathetic account of many other remarkable Passages.  
Written by Will. Caoursin, Chancellor of the Order; and Rhodgia Afendy, a TURK.  
London, Printed for Will. Whitwood, next to the George Inn in Little Britain, 1683.   

To the READER.  
MEN of Active Spirits, and designing Fame and honour hereafter, can not where better benefit themselves then by reading the lives of such Persons as have trod the same steps before them. For in the lives of great Personages they find those Examples of Conduct which they are either to follow or avoid. Since that by celebrating the deeds of good men, they that come after are incited to deserve well of mankind. To this purpose the Author of this short story chose to revive the memory of Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of Rhodes, a Person for courage and piety not inferior to any of his time.  
For the truth of what he writes, He informs ye where he had it; from an ancient Manuscript written by William Caoursin, Chancellor of the Order, who wrote nothing but what he was an eye-witness off. As also from several other original Papers which he found in Malta itself. Nor did he refuse the help of Khodgia Afendy, a Turk, who living at the same time, wrote a Relation of the Siege with a great dead of Justice to the high merits of the Grand Master.  
Thus than the vigorous fury of Mahomet, the zealous and fortunate resistance of D'Aubusson, the misfortunes of Zizim, a pleasing yet melancholy variety, though inseparable from the story, being the Subjects of this Relation, 'tis something probable that they that seek either for instruction or divertisement, cannot fail of their expectation. However it is wholly left to them, to be either severe or Candid Judges, as they find most Reason.  
The loss of Rhodes is added not only to complete the story, but to revive the renown of the Great and Famous Villerius, who sustained the whole power of the manificent, Solyman till his Pride was quite tired out. Insomuch that had not Treachery within, put a fatal period to the flourishing Estate of Rhodes, Solyman might have waited long enough upon Palermos' for the conquest of that City. In short they that read to the end of these few Pages, will find variety sufficient for so small a volume, and a recital of such actions as rather deserved the Grandeur of a Heroic Poem, than the ordinary dress of Prose.   


THE HISTORY OF Peter D'Aubusson, Great Master of RHODES.  
PEter D'Aubusson, whose History I have undertaken to write, was by providence chosen out among the French about two hundred years since, to set bounds to the Conquests of the Infidels. And He it was that saved Rome from the destiny of Constantinople, defending Rhodes against all the force of Mahomet the second, Emperor of the Turks.  
He was the Son of Reginald D'Aubusson, Lord of Monteil-au-Viconte in March, and Margaret of Comborn, both of the most Ancient and Illustrious Houses in the Kingdom. He received from nature, together with a Noble Birth, a strong and proportionable body, fit for great undertake; a quick wit, and virtuous inclinations.  
As he was born valiant, and that the fiery constitution of his body, could not away with an idle life, he took upon him the profession of Arms, so soon as he was of Age to handle a sword.  
The Truce which had been concluded between France and England, by the address of Cardinal saint Croix, Legate to Pope Eugenius the fourth, and the Peace which followed, obliged him to seek for Employment and Hounour in Germany.  
The Emperor Sigismond had potent enemies both at home and abroad. The Hussites made war against him in Bohemia; and though they seemed inclinable to a submission after the bloody Battle of Pragne, where they lost above twenty thousand men, yet Rebellion was all they had in their thoughts. They were also so much the more to be feared, by how much they were highly enraged at their defeat, and that rage redoubled in some measure the zeal which served for the pretence of their Revolt.  
But the greatest mischief was in Hungary, where the Turks made horrible havocks. Sigismond, who was at that time taken up with the affairs of the Council of Basle, not being able to oppose himself against the Torrent which threatened to overflow all Germany, sent away with all speed, Albert Duke of Austria his Son in-law, to repel the Barbarians.  
Aubusson by chance, or rather by a particular Providence of Heaven, got a Command in this Army. For providence having designed him to a Profession and a Trust that concerned the Defence of Christendom, so ordered it, that he should perform his first feats of Arms against the enemies thereof.  
The Prince marched with all the hast he could, and though far inferior in number, he no sooner discovered the Ottoman Army, but he sell on with out any farther deliberation. The beginning of the Combat savor'd the Imperialists. They overturned at first whatever Resistance opposed them, and made a very great slaughter. Aubusson, who felt his courage kindled upon sight of the Infidels, slew a great many with his own hand, and fought always in the foremost Ranks. But when the Victory seemed to have been assuredly on Albert's side, the Turkish Cavalry surrounded that of the Christians, and fell upon them so impetuously, that they made them give way, and broke them upon the first charge. The disorder was not long. Aubusson rallied all the Troops about him, and renewed the fight under the conduct of a Hungarian, whose name is not recorded in Histories, though his valour deserves to live eternally in the memory of men.  
This brave person, remarkable for his tall size of body, and his undaunted Air, together with Aubusson, sustained, almost without other Assistance, all the whole power of the Enemy; and with his battle-axe in his hand, after he had beat down several, made his way through the rest. Which Action so Resolute, as it terrified the Turks, so it reincouraged the Christians. All Albert's Troops followed this new Leader, who seemed to be sent to them from Heaven; and as if they had at the same time been inspired with fresh Vigour, they charged the Barbarians so rudely, that eighteen thousand lay dead upon the place, the rest thought of nothing but Flight.  
While the Arms of Sigismond had this happy success in Hungary, his affairs prospered no less in other places. The Hussites, weak'nd by their Losses, and either terrified by the Threats, or gained by the Promises of Emperor, at length returned to their duty, The Treaty of Prague put an end to all the Troubles of Bohemia, and upon a sudden the Imperial Authority was re-established.  
All things being thus calmed, and Albert having disbanded his Troops, Aubusson attended the Nobility that went to the Emperor's Court. There he was received as one that contributed highly to the Victory in Hungary; and that which was related to Sigismond touching the Valour of the young French Gentleman, engaged that Prince to give him public marks of his esteem and acknowledgement. But Aubusson not only attracted the praises and favours of the Emperor, by his first exploits in War: for he also gained his good will and kindness by his carriage near his person, and the care which he took to please him.  
Sigismond was endued with all the noble Qualities of a great Prince. Besides that he was valiant, wise, religious; he loved Learning in particular, and had a great value for learned men, whom he preferred upon all occasions, before persons that had nothing, to recommend them but their Birth. He was himself learned, perfectly well read in History. He understood and spoke the Latin tongue, as he made it appear at the Council of Constance, by the testimony of Gerson Chancellor of the University of Paris, who was present there, and was charmed with the last speech of that Prince. For that reason he could not endure ignorance in his Courtiers; and would say sometimes, that he was ashamed of the Electors, who had not the least tincture of Learning.  
Though Aubusson were endued with a Martial soul, and that the love of war overswayed his Inclinations, yet had he a disposition and a Genius for Learning. He had a quick and piercing wit; a happy memory, and a solid judgement. So that it was no difficult thing for him to conform himself to the humour of the Emperor, having in a short time fitted himself for all manner of addresses. After he had studied the languages as much as was requisite for a Soldier to know; he applied himself to the understanding of all the noble sciences. He learned the Maps, the Mathematics, and above all the rest, that part with concerns the Art of war. But History was his Principal study; He made a kind of business & Exercise of it, reading more to instruct then divert himself. For he was not contented to charge his memory with great names, and strange Accidents, as many do that read; but he still made Judicious reflections upon what he read; proposing to himself, as examples to follow, the actions of men Illustrious. Above all things, he examined the lives of great men, and making advantage of their Vices, as well as of their Virtues, he became a Master to himself for the governing his own Manners.  
Whatever love he had for reading, and what ever pleasure he took in it, yet he studied the world more than books: and above all the world, and all books, the Emperor. As he had a free access to his person, and was with him every day, he was able to observe ne'er at hand his Maxims, his words his actions, and all his behaviour. But among all the Virtues of Sigismond he was taken with none more than his Zeal for the Christian Faith; of which he showed so many real marks, not only in the Councils which he upheld by his authority and presence, but also by the wars which he undertook against the Infidels.  
Thus the Court, which is usually the corrupter of youth, was to Aubusson a school of wisdom and virtue. Where, besides the love which it taught him to have for learning, and to make a sound judgement of things, he acquired Integrity, and became a man of Virtue and Repute.  
With such noble Inclinations as these, he might easily pretend to great employments in a Court where Justice was done to merit. And certainly he had attained thereto, as much a stranger as he was, had not his Fortunes been overturnd by the Death of the Emperor.  
Albert Duke of Austria, who succeeded Sigismond, had not for Aubusson those kind thoughts as his predecessors. Whether it were that he did not naturally love the French, or whether the Favours of the deceased Emperor provoked his hatred of a stranger  
Aubusson quickly percev'd that the Emperor had got a new Master, and that the best course that he could take was to be gone. But though that Consideration might not have prevailed with him to quit Germany, yet his duty would have obliged to return to France.  
The Treaty at Arras for the accommodation between the two Kingsof England and France not taking effect, as it was hoped, the War broke out again between the two Kings: So that there happ'nd divers sieges, and divers fights, with more heat and animosity then ever. The English made great spoil in the Provinces of which they were not Masters; and the French divided among themselves, committed as great violences every where; so that what between a Foreign and a Civil War joined together, the whole Kingdom was full of confusion and horror.  
This was the state of the Affairs of France when Sigismond died, and that Aubusson forsook Germany to come and serve his own Country. John D'Aubusson Lord of Born, his Cousin-German, and Chamberlain to Charles the seventh, brought him to Court. So soon as he came there, his proper person, his sparkling countenance, his noble Air attracted the eyes of all upon him; but his prudent and honest carriage, his wit, his politeness, his pleasant conversation gained almost the hearts of every one.  
In regard he was of the County of March, and younger Son of the Viscount's of that County, the Count of March, Governor of the Dolphin, showed him great respect, and did him the honour to be his Patron. This Relation which Aubusson had to the Count, gave him opportunity often to wait upon the Dolphin, who was almost of Age. He obtained his love, being so happy as to share in the exercises and divertisements of the Prince. He had also the good fortune to please Charles the seventh, who saw in him at first sight something that was great and not common. But it was not long ere be showed by his actions, that what we conceived of him, was not without good ground. He signalised himself in a high measure at Montereau Faut-yone, whither he attended the Dolphin, who commanded at the Siege. The King who had been himself a witness of the valour of Aubusson, when he carried the City by Assault, making his entry a little while after into Paris, commanded his attendance upon him to Court, with the chief of his Nobility. This Entry was one of the most magnificent that ever was made: And it may be truly said to be the first day that Charles began to reascend his Throne. Several Cities followed the example of the Capital; and those that stood out were for the most part reduced by force. Aubusson every where gave signal marks of his Courage; but upon one occasion he made it apparent that a young Warrior might be as well prudent as cunning.  
At what time the power of the English abated in the Kingdom, that of the fair Agnes increased at Court. As she was wonderfully charming, and one that understood better than any woman of her sex, how to govern her Lovers, she obtained in a short while an absolute Dominion over the King. But according to the custom of women, whose credit arises from their Beauty, she made but an ill use of the King's Favours. The Dolphin, who was not naturally very docible, could not endure a haughty and imperious woman, who had but little respect for him. On the other side, the great Authority of Charles of Anjou, Brother to the King of Sicily offended him extremely. He took it ill, that a Prince, for whom he had no kindness, should have so great a share in the confidence of his Father. So that the Favourite was no less a trouble to him then the Mistress.  
But that which vexed him most of all, was, that after the taking of Montereau, where he fought so well against the English, that in Courtship they applauded him for it before the King, he had but a bad reception from bis Father, instead of the thanks which he expected. For the King perceiving that this first Essay had puffed up the mind of his son, he returned him under the Discipline of his Government, and removed him also from the Court. Whether he were jealous of a valour that made such a noise in the world; or whether, understanding the bad disposition of the Dolphin, he thought this first success of his might transport him too far, if he did not take care to curb him.  
The Dolphin dissembled his dissatisfaction for some time; but a young Prince once provoked, whose passions are violent, and who never wants bad counsel, is soon weary of counterfeiting. And therefore to revenge himself like the Son of a King, he went and put himself at the head of the Rebellious Nobility.  
The Count of March, to whom the revolt of his disciple was no small dishonour, omitted nothing that might reduce him to his duty. Besides what he did himself, he made use of the management of Aubusson, whom the Prince loved, and who had found a means to preserve his favour without confederating in the revolt. Certain it is that the Dolphin was of a jealous, & ticklish disposition, not easy to manage; and one of those who are of that head strong & obstinate humour, that they are seldom to be recovered, when they have once fixed upon their party. But Aubusson knew him very well, and understood which way to take him. For he had those sweet and insinuating charms, which are not imcompatible with a fierce and fiery Disposition. But above all, he had a natural Eloquence, that always wrought its Effect, and which persuades so much the more, by how much it is the less distrusted. So that he had not much to do to make the Prince list'n to reason. He so dextrously managed his passions, and mollified him in such sort by degrees, that when the Count of Yew, came afterwards to treat with him on the King's behalf, he found him altogether inclined to lay down his Arms, and beg pardon.  
The King was so satisfied wi●h Aubussons address upon this occasion, that he employed him in other Negotiations of concernment. In all which he so behaved himself, that Charles the fifth highly applauded the sharpness of his wit. Insomuch that one day, speaking of Aubusson, he said, it was a hard matter to find so much fire and so much prudence both together.  
After the Princes were come to an accommodation, the War grew very warm between the French and English, and much blood was shed on both sides. But the truces that were afterwards made, changed the whole face of affairs. France began to breathe a more quiet Air; and the pleasures which afterwards succeeded the Toils of war, had perhaps effeminated the hearts of the soldiers; if their Marches into Lorraine and Germany had not found them work.  
Rene of Anjou, King of Sicily and Duke of Lorraine, requested aid of Charles King of France, his Brother in Law, against some places in the Country of Messin, that would not acknowledge his jurisdiction. Charles presently appears before Nancy with a great Army; of which one part went briskly to beseige Mets. The City defended itself with great courage and obstinacy. Upon which the Dolphin, with whom the tediousness of the siege did not agree, found a fair occasion to satisfy his boiling and ambitious Humour.  
The Emperor Frederick the third, dissatisfied with the Swisseses, who pretended to have nothing to do with the House of Astria, and who under that pretence affected a kind of Independency, not much differing from a Revolt; invited France by the mediation of Sigismond, Duke of Austria, to come and defend the Rights of the Empire. There needed no more encouragement for the Dolphin, who had espoused the Sister of the Duchess of Austria, to enter Alsacia with an Army. Aubusson was one of the young Lords that attended him, and one who had the greatest share in the defeat of the Swisseses near Basle: But the Duke having reduced some places, and cast a terror upon others, marched back again sooner than was expected. Either because the Emperor, unwilling to draw upon himself ill will, for being the occasion of the war, in some measure disowned it; or because the Germane Lord, who had conducted the French Army into Switzerland, and was to have been their guide through all the narrow and difficult straits of the Mountains, being slain, there was no safety in proceeding farther.  
In the mean time the Affair of Mets being brought to an accommodation, advantageous for the Besiegers, and honourable for the Besieged; the Ambassadors of the Germane Princes, whom the Dolphin's march had alarmed, came to demand a confirmation of the ancient Alliances between France and Germany. Their demands were granted them; and as there is a time when the Spirit of Peace is predominant, the truce was prolonged for five years between France and England. The Court in such a quiet calm began to think of nothing but divertisement: and the Marriage of Margaret, Daughter of the King of Sicily, with Henry King of England, occasioned such extraordinary rejoicings, that they had almost forgot their last troubles. Never was a more beautiful Court, nor a more numerous, then that of Nancy: For not to speak of the several Princes and Princesses that were of lesser dignity, there were two Kings, and three Queens beside. The Earl of Suffolk, who was sent to fetch the new Queen of England, had with him the flower of the English Nobility. Several days were also spent in magnificent Tournaments, where the King of France, and the King of Sicily ran together.  
But Aubusson soon grew weary of that which employed others so much to their delight. Besides that he naturally loved war, he had Principles of Piety which did not correspond with a lazy and voluptuous life. On the other side, the victories of John Hunniades, and George Castriote, which they had obtained against Amurat, inspired him with a new zeal for Religion: and the Cruelties which the Turks exercised against the Christians at the Battle of Varna, awakened in him the hatred which he had conceived against the Enemies of Jesus Christ.  
He could not but with great grief of mind understand the report which ran at that time, that Vladislaus King of Poland, and Cardinal Cesarini, the Pope's Legate had been flayed alive by those Barbarians. But it was joyful news to him, that the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, had obtained several advantages against the Saracens; and that the Sultan of Egypt, had a little before raised his siege from before Rhodes. In the midst of these thoughts, he took a resolution to fight against the Infidels, and to the end he might be indispensably engaged thereto, he framed a design at the same time to embrace the military order of St. John of Jerusalem. Heaven, that inspired him with these high thoughts, gave him the power to execute them with speed. He departed for Rhodes, not all the Charms of the Court being able to detain him.  
The multitude of French Gentlemen that daily thronged to Rhodes to be made Knights, had obliged the Grand-master to make an Order that none would be received, until the Treasury, exhausted by the late Wars, were somewhat replenished. Nevertheless Aubusson was admitted; whether it were that they saw in his person somewhat extraordinary that spoke in his behalf, or that it were a peculiar favour, in respect to Lewis D'Aubusson his Uncle, one of the most famous Knights of Rhodes, and known in History by the name of the Commander of Charroux: Or whether it were that the Grand-master were inspired to exceed his own Rules in favour of a Person, who was afterwards to be the support of the Order.  
Our new Knight had no great difficulty to undergo the usual Examinations, though at that time they were much more strict than afterwards. For all things that render a Family Illustrious, were to be found with advantage in his: For as to the antiquity of it, the original of the House of Aubusson, is unknown and uncertain, as of most Families in the world. But that which may be certainly averred is this; that in the time of Charlemagne, the Ancestors of Pierre D'Aubusson were very famous in France. For the Kings of the second race having settled Counts to govern every Province, and these Lords always choosing the greatest Lords of their Province for their Lieutenants, Jeffrey, first Count of March, chose his Lieutenant out of the House of Aubusson, about the year 860. This Lieutenant to the Lord, whose name we know not, was called Viscount D'Aubusson from the name of the principal Place which he possessed.  
Turpin, who was elected Bishop of Lymoges in the year 898, and whom Aymar of Chabanois extols no less for the splendour of his Birth, then for the holiness of his Life, was the Son of the first Viscount of Aubusson, and Brother of Reginald the first, who was Viscount under his Father, under Sulpicius the second, Earl of March, Son of Jefferey.  
The dignity of Viscount remained above four hundred years in that Family of Aubusson, successively from Father to Son, till that Raymund the first having no Children, sold it to Hugues Earl of March, to the prejudice of his Brother Ranulphus D'Aubusson, who continuaed the Posterity.  
Piety and Liberality, which in those times highly distinguished the great Lords from those of mean extraction, were hereditary virtues in this Family. For, not to speak any thing of Bishop Turpin, so magnificent in all that concerned the worship of the Altar; the Viscount's D'Aubusson, were always very Religious, and gave considerable Donations to several Churches and Abbeys.  
These Lords and their Descendants signalised themselves upon several Occasions, where the interest of France was concerned. Witness Guy D'Aubusson, who performed so many noble Acts, in the War with the English under Charles the fifth, who having received many wounds in the defence of his Castle of Monte●…, was taken Prisoner with his Wife and Children by the Enemy. Witness also John D'Aubusson, Lord of Borne, Anthony D'Aubusson, Lord of Villeneare, and Anthony D'Aubusson Lord of Monteil, who made their fidelity and their zeal for the service of Charles the seventh appear; whose Chamberlains they were at such a time when all the King's Officers were Peers of high quality.  
Lastly, that which infinitely advances the House of Aubusson, and perhaps distinguishes it from all others, is this, that being so ancient, it was never mixed, but has still in the same County preserved the same Estate: so that Francis D'Aubusson, Duke and Peer, Marshal of France, and Colonel of the French Guards, possesses at this day the Signiory of Fueillade, which has been time out of mind in the possession of the Viscount's D'Aubusson his Ancestors.  
But to return to our History, Aubusson was no sooner arrived at Rhodes, but he understood that there was a peace going to be made with Amurat, and that it was almost concluded by the Sultan of Egypt. In regard he had an extreme passion to fight with the enemies of Christ, this news was not overwelcome to him, only he was in hopes that it would soon be broken.  
In the mean time he set himself to study the duty of a true Knight. Presently he understood that the Knights of Rhodes were to join together in Valour and Piety: that a cowardly Knight, or a Libertine, was something monstrous: that for them to live according to the intent of their Calling, there was a necessity fo● them exactly to follow the maxims of the Gospel, and that they were not to draw their Swords, but in the defence of the Church, or for the relief of the Faithful: that for that reason they wore their Cross upon their Habit, and that their Impress was, For the Faith. He often revolved in his mind the virtues and the exploits of those ancient Knights that first made themselves Masters of Rhodes, and afterwards so courageously withstood Ottom●n the first King of the Turks.  
But notwithstanding the peace, because it did not hinder the roving of Turkish Pirates, he several times put forth to Sea, and so well acquitted himself upon all occasions that presented, that he obtained the commandery of Salins, in the first years of his service.  
John de Lustic, who at that time governed the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, and who was the first to whom the public vogue gave the title of Grand master, soon conceived a high Opinion of Monsieur D'Aubusson, as well as James de Milli, who was Grand Prior of Auvergne, and who succeeded John de Lustic in the charge of Grand-master.  
The affairs of Rhodes were calm enough, when the death of Amurath, or rather the ambition of Mahomet his successor, raised strange troubles over all Christendom.  
Mahomet the second is so often mentioned in the story, that I am to write, that it will not be amiss to describe him before I go any farther. He was one of those extraordinary personages, who are not only endowed with great Virtues, and great Vices; but one also fraught with qualities altogether opposite. Never was the●… a Prince more wise, or more led away; more valiant, nor more effeminate, more a Master, nor more a Slave to his passions then he. Though he had a Countenance somewhat wild, and something of terrible in his eyes, he could put on a mild and engaging Air when he pleased. His Seraglio followed him every where; and he gave himself up to his pleasures in the midst of the toils of war; but he was melancholy and cruel in the height of his pleasures, killing sometimes with his own hand his Favourites and his Mistresses in the heat of his debauchery; so soon he altered from love to choler and fury. He also committed these cruelties sometimes in cold blood, more out of Policy than transportation. And it is reported of him, that when he reproached the Soldiers for effeminacy, and slackness in discipline; certain among them taking the boldness to hit him in the teeth with a young Grecian whom he passionately loved, he caused her to be brought forth, and to be by them beheld at leisure: whereupon when the Soldiers dazzled with her beauty, agreed that the Emperor's passion was not without good reason; Mahomet immediately striking off her dead with his Scimitar, laid her head at their feet, to let them understand, that Pleasure was not his Master, and that whatever proneness he had to it, he loved nothing beyond his duty.  
He was brought up by his Mother in the principles of Christianity, & instructed by Maximus, Patriarch of the Greeks. However, he only made profession of the Mahometan Religion, or rather he had no Religion at all; laughing at his Prophet, and regarding less the Koran then the Gospel. He freely confessed that the Christian Law was an admirable Law: but he so much abhorred the Christians, that when he met with one, he was always wont to wash his hands and mouth, as if the very sight of a Christian had defiled him.  
He thought all things lawful to obtain his ends: and never kept his word, but when it stood with the conveniency of his affairs. For he pretended that he owed no respect to any one, and treated all men like slaves, not. considering that he owed to himself the fulfilling of the word which he had given to others, and that the laws of fidelity oblige the Masters as well as the Slaves. Yet was he just to his Subjects, and administered justice equally to all his people. He thought much, spoke little, neglected nothing, informed himself of all things, and disguised himself often to see what passed in his Seraglio, and in his Army. He understood several Languages, and several Sciences, amongst the rest Astrology, which he studied very much. He was a lover of learned men, and excellent Artists of any Nation whatever. Magnificent toward the one and the other. Observing no moderation in reward, no more than he did in punishment. Indefatigable he was in war, a contemner of danger, resolute in bad fortune, insolent or moderate in prosperity, as occasion required: cunning to conceal his enterprises, and discover those of his enemies: Artificial in his management, making use of the vilest means to compass his ends: but ambitious to excess: accounting all his conquests as nothing, and still every day proposing new to himself. So predominant was the love of honour in him, and Alexander the great so much his model, that he read his life continually, which he caused on purpose to be translated into Arabic, and he did him the honour to imitate him even in his vices.  
When Mahomet had taken possession of the Ottoman Empire, after the death of Amurath his Father, he was presently for an universal Monarchy, and first he undertook to subdue the Empire of the Greeks. He began his military expeditions with the siege of the Capital, notwithstanding the peace which he had made with Constantine Paleologus, Emperor of Constantinople; or rather it was under the protection of a peace solemnly sworn, that the Barbarian turned his arms upon that side.  
In regard Constantine had made no provision against an attempt which he did not mistrust, and for that the succour which he received from the King of Arragon, the Pope, and the Republic of Venice came too late, he could not sustain the force of so great an Army; so that the City was carried by assault by the Infidels, notwithstanding the resistance of the Christians. Never was seen a more tragical spectacle, than that which was then beheld. They made a most horrible slaughter every where; nothing escaped the fury of the Soldiers. Women & Virgins of quality were publicly defiled; and afterwards inhumanly massacred. The Images & relics of the Saints were cut to pieces. The Resemblances of Christ thrown to the dogs; and the great Crucifix dragged about the streets, with most dreadful acclamations and imprecations. Constantine rather chose to die in the defence of his Crown and faith, then to fall alive into the hands of the Barbarians. His head was carried upon a Lance round about the City; and that there might not any footstep remain of the family of the Paleologi, Mahomet caused the Princes and Princesses of the Blood-Royal to be slain in the midst of a magnificent Banquet, whereat he treated the Principal Officers of his Army.  
The taking of Constantinople cast a terror upon all the East, and obliged the Despote of Servia, the King of Cyprus, and the Emperor of Trebizond, to sue for the friendship of the Turk. Which they could not obtain, but upon paying a certain Tribute, as the Islands of Scio, and Meteline did. The Knights of Rhodes would not stoop to any such dishonourable condition; and though Mahomet's Ambassador threatened the Knights with all that could be expected from a Potent and Victorious Prince, if they refused to pay him 2000 Ducats a year, the Grand-Master answered with a generous Christianity, That the Order of Rhodes acknowledged none but the Apostolic See, which knew not what it was to pay Tribute: and that for his part he was resolved rather to die a thousand deaths, then to suffer in his time, that the Government which he had received free, should become tributary; and that if Mahomet made war against the faith of Treaties, he hoped that God, who is the revenger of injuries and impieties, would defend his own Worship against all the Ottoman Power.  
In regard the Knights were fearful lest so fierce an Answer might provoke Mahomet, they made it their business to provide against so formidable an enemy. But because the Society was then poor, and not able to maintain a long war of itself, they thought it their best way to engage the Christian Princes to their side, especially the King▪ of France, upon whom they looked upon as the best friend of their Order. The Commander D Aubusson was chosen for this Embassage out of all the Commanders of the French Nation. Not only because he had a particular knowledge and dexterity in managing affairs, but because he was known to the Court of France.  
He departed from Rhodes at the time that James de Milli succeeded John de Lustic, Grand-Master of the Order, and arrived in France, a little after the Cardinal d Avignon, whom the Pope had sent thither, to incite the French against the Turk. The Ambassador of Rhodes was entertained after an extraordinary manner, either because the Court had a great esteem for him, or because they had a design to keep him in delay. He saw through the gentleness and caresses which he received, which way the Court stood affected toward the Holy-wat. The King would not undertake it by any means, whether he thought his Kingdom too much exhausted to defray the expense of a war that might prove of a long continuance; or whether he minded nothing but his Repose, after his past toils, or that the Charms of the fair Agnes had cooled his zeal which he formerly had for the interest of the Church; or whether it were that he would not submit to the inclinations of his Son, who was retired malcontent, to Philip Duke of Burgundy, the most zealous of all the Christian Princes, and one that had declared himself so much an enemy of the Turk, that he solemnly swore to make war upon them.  
The Cardinal Legate who was a Frenchman, and very understanding in affairs, applid himself wholly to effect this Negotiation. After many Conferences in vain with the public Ministers, he treated at last in particular with the King, not being able to obtain any thing. Calistus being advertised of the King's disposition, writ to him very sharp Letters; threatening him at length with the Thunderbolts of Rome, and the Malediction of Heaven, if he refused the holy League. Those Letters wrought no effect, if they did not make it worse. The King was incensed at the Pope's threats, and not persuaded by his reasons. In such a ticklish conjuncture, there appeared no probability of hopes for the Commander D Aubusson. However he ceased not to act: and in regard that besides the character of an Ambassador he had other good qualities, which made him esteemed by the King and his Ministers, he was heard more favourably than the Legate.  
He represented at first that Christendom was never in more eminent danger, and that there was nothing which we had not to fear, if the Progress of the Infidels were not quickly stopped; that Mahomet since the taking of Constantinople aimed at nothing but Rome; that he was fallen into Hungaria, to enter into Germany, with a purpose to make his way that way into Italy. That it was one of his maxims, that as there is but one God in Heaven, so there could not be but one Monarch upon Earth: That he had been constrained to raise his siege before Belgrade, because he had not taken the right course, and for that he had been wounded himself, but that his misfortune had no way disincouraged him; that he was one of those great men that make the best advantage of their errors and misfortunes; or rather that he was like the fiercer sort of Beasts, who when they have received a wound and feel their blood begin to flow, are never more furious till then. That since his ill success in Hungary, he had drawn to his side the Sultan of Egypt, the Caraman and the Tartar, and that he would return with fresh forces to the siege of the Belgrade; and that his Generals who had taken almost all the Isles in the Archipelago, would soon pour their fury upon Rhodes. In short that those two Ramparts of Christendom being forced, not any of the Dominions of the Christian Princes could be safe, either by Sea or Land.  
Aubusson▪ afterwards represented to the King, that being the ●ld●st Son the Church, he could not forsake their interest without dishonour to himself. That as for the transportment of the Pope, it was but a transportment of zeal, and that his good intentions deserved the pardon of a few sharp expressions. He added at length, that because there were in Rhodes more Knights of the French, then of any other Nations in the world the Monarch of Fraace could not in justice dispense with succouring the Island, at a time when it lay only in his power to do it. That Alphonsus King of Arragon, so wise and so brave before he came into Italy, was not only effeminated by the delights of Naples, but embroyld with Pope Calixtus; who though a native of Arragon, had refused to give him the investiture of the Kingdom of Sicily, and to assure the succession to Ferdinand his natural son. That Henry King of Castille, as poor spirited, and more vicious than his Father, had business at home and abroad; and that his Rebellious subjects found him as much work, as the Moors of Granada his Neighbours and Enemies. Thas Henry of England was not Master at home, and that the Duke of York who had usurped the Government, minded nothing but to sustain himself against his Rivals. That the Emperor Frederick lived an idle life, minding neither his own honour, nor the safety of Christendom. That besides, the war grew hot between the Empire and Hungary, and that Ladislaus at the same time was to make head against the Emperor and the Turk. That civil dissensions turmoiled all Italy, and that the Kingdoms of Sweedland & Danemark were full of troubles, Christiern had been set up in the place of Charles, whose irregularities and crimes had rendered him unworthy of the Crown. That Alphonso King of Portugal, quiet enough at home, wanted not a good will, but that all he could do was but very little, if a Prince more potent than himself did not assist him. That thus France being the only Kingdom in Europe that enjoyed a true peace; it was only from France that they could expect relief sufficient to ruin the designs of the Port, and for that reason perhaps it was that Heaven had freed it from the power of the English.  
All these reasons propounded after a smart and insinuating manner, made a deep impression upon Charles' thoughts. That Prince who was so averse before to the Holy-war, began to desire it, and awaking from the profound sleep wherein his pleasures had lulled him, he only followed the motions of his Piety and Courage. He gave liberty to Cardinal DAvignen to levy a tenth upon the Clergy, to defray the expense of the war; he entered into a League against Mahomet with Hungary, and that there might be no question of his faithful inclinations, he confirmed the League by the marriage of Magdalene of France his Daughter with King Ladislaus. As for the Knights, he promised them all assistance, and immediately caused sixty thousand Crowns in Gold to be paid to the Ambassador of Rhodes.  
Aubusson laid out that money for provisions of war, according to the orders he received, and freighted away Ships laden with Canon, Arms, Powder and Led. Then he departed himself, after he had collected most of the money, which was due to the Order in several parts of Europe.  
The success of the Embassy, and the Letter which he presented to the Grand-Master from the King of France, made him to be acceptably received by the Knights and all the people. The Letter was very generous and very obliging. For the King after he had only spoken a word or two touching the gratifying of their desires, and excused himself for not having done more at the present juncture, frankly engaged himself to give them farther assistance, and assured them of his friendship, in very civil and affectionate language, which Kings were not wont to make use of.  
But whatever obligation the Order had to Charles the seventh, the Spanish Knights could not forbear to dea● very rudely with the French Knights at a general Chapter, held a little after the return of the Ambassador, and which was no less famous for the attempts of Hostile Nations or enemies of France, then for the number of famous Commanders that were present.  
So soon as the Chapter war opened, the Knight de Linian, Procurator of the Spanish tongue, stood up, and said aloud, that they ought not to proceed any farther, without decreeing one Article which he ought to propose, and which was very important, the public tranquillity. To which purpose, he required, that all the dignities of the Order should be equal, and that there should be no distinction of Languages, nor of precedency, nor in any other marks of Honour. He was seconded in his proposal, by the Knight de Rivalta, Procurator of the Italian tongue, and the Procurators all England and Germany. But the French, who had always marched before other Nations, opposed with all their might the Proposal of Linian, and above all the Commander D Aubusson, who held a considerable degree in the Assembly, by virtue of his title of Constable of Rhodes, and Procurator of the Grand-Master.  
The zeal which he had for the Honour of his Country, made him speak louder and more earnest than the rest. To show how unjust the Proposition of the Spaniards was, he declared in few words, that the French being the first Founders of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, deserved such honour as should distinguish them from other Languages that were associated with them, and which they had adopted: That those particular honours being the recompense of their virtue, it would be injustice to deprive them of them. That their Predecessors had peaceably enjoyed them, without being ever molested or opposed: That antiquity of Possession was a good Title for precedency: And that in a well regulated Constitution all Innovations were of dangerous consequence: After all, that it was not a time then to dispute of such matters, and that they would incur the malediction of the Church, according to the Pope's Brief touching the celebration of the Chapter, if they discoursed of any other matters, than what concerned the general good of Christendom.  
The Spaniards and their accomplices often interrupted Aubusson, and endeavoured to carry by force, what they could not obtain by justice. But finding at length that the French party was the strongest, and that they were not all hearknd to, they fling out of the Assembly, and afterwards departed the Town, notwithstanding the prohibition of the Grand-Master: so that this Affair, which, as the Spaniards pretended so much imported the public tranquillity, was but a trick to divide and break up the Assembly.  
But the Commander D Aubusson had another occasion to stand up for the honour of France while he descended his own. The news being brought to the Grand-Master that Mahomet was equipping out a great Fleet, and that the Turks might attack the Island of Rhodes, the Knight Villemarin a Spaniard, and a person of merit, but ambitious, and naturally turbulent, proposed in Council with much heat, that he might immediately give order for all things necessary for the defence of the City, and made a large recital of what was needful, with all the marks of a sedulous care. Aubusson who was Castellaine of the City, and who besides that, exercised the Command of Captain General in the absence of the Marshal of the Order, fearing lest Villamarin, whose haughty and daring humour he knew, should usurp the charge of Captain General, anfwered him sternly, that there was no want of power; that he might set himself at rest for that; and that he had nothing to do to intrude himself upon those duties that did not belong to him: That it was the Captain General who was to take care for the security of the City: That that employment anciently belonged to the Auvergnon Tongue, and that the Spanish Language bade nothing to do with it.  
Villemarin made a semblance of submitting to his reasons, and gave no reply at that time, either to conceal his design, or to give himself time to consider what he had to do. But the next day, having consulted the Knights of his own Nation, which were returned to Rhodes, whose behaviour the Grand-Master had also pardoned, he appeared at the head of them in Council, and with an affected Air of modesty, said, that the Spanish Language did not pretend to the charge of Captain General; but that he, and all the rest of the Nation desired that they might have the opportunity to perform their duties to the utmost of their power, as well as the French. Aubusson, who saw that this manner of proceeding, was only a meet fetch, and that the Spaniards, under pretence of demanding the exercise of their duty, had a design upon the Command itself, replied with more sternness and vigour then before, that the charge of Captain General was annexed to the dignity of Marshal of the Order; that only belonged to the Auvergnian Language, of whom the Marshal was the chief, to do the duties of it; and that Spain had nothing to do to meddle with France as to that particular. The Council adjudged that Villemarin's wariness was without any ground; and the Affair was decreed in favour of the French, to the disgrace of the Spaniards, who in vain protested against all that was done, in regard that their Protests could not be Registered.  
Notwithstanding the advantage which France had in these Contests, that hindered not, but that Peter Raymund Zacosta, a Castillan, was chosen Grand-Master, in the room of James de Milli, who died at that time; the Spaniards were also divided into two Languages, the one Arragonian, the other castilian; in favour of the latter of which, there was a new Dignity created under the Title of Chancellor of the Order. Yet neither the credit which the Spaniards had with the new Grand-Master, nor the animosities which they had conceived against the French could hinder, but that the Commander Aubusson had always his share in the management of Affairs, and was highly honoured by the Chapter General which was held at Rome.  
To understand this part of the History, it is convenient to relate the reason which obliged the Grand-Master to pass into Italy, with the principal Knights, at a time when it was thought that they ought not to have been absent.  
The Negotiation of the Ambassador which Mahomet sent to Rome, to treat of peace, or rather to lull the Knights asleep while his Arms were employed in other places, having not taken effect, the Grand-Master thought it convenient to lay up a bank for the War, and began to levy the Tax which had been imposed upon all the Estates of the Order.  
The most part of the absent Commanders, who lead lives irregular enough, and for whom great Revenues were not large enough to maintain their luxury, refused to pay that which was their due. However, to excuse themselves in some measure, they cried out that the Tax was too high, that Zacosta sought only to ruin them, and enrich himself; and that his Government grew every day more and more tyrannical. They also did him ill offices to the Princes which they found inclined to hear them. The Italians and French did all they could to animate against him the Duke of Venice and the King of Naples; but the Spaniards rendered him altogether odious to the King of Arragon, already provoked for that the Council of Rhodes had taken from an Arragonois the Commandery, of Emposta, to put Zacosta in his room. That Prince, who was one of the Greatest of his time, and who wanted not for credit at Rome, informed the Pope of all, and advised him to send for the Grand Master, and to examine how he had carried himself. The Pope believed the King of Arragon, but to save in some measure the honour of the party accused, he ordered the General Chapter, which should have been held at Rhodes, to be held at Rome, where the affairs of the Order might be better consulted then in any other place. Zacosta, who was ignorant of the evil designs of his enemies, blindly obeys the Orders of the Pope, and his innocency seemed to afford him strength to undergo the toil of a Voyage in the extremity of old age.  
In this famous Assembly it was, wherein Paul the second presided in Person, that the Commander D Aubusson was highly preferred. For besides that at the opening of the Chapter, he was chosen for one of the Procurators of the Treasury, he was one of the sixteen Knights that were afterwards elected, and who according to the Statutes of the Order, bade a joint power to look after the most important affairs.  
But his principal business was to justify the innocence of the Grand Master Zacosta; to which purpose he plied Cardinal Ursini and the Archbishop of Milan, who were brought into the Chapter by the Pope's order, being persons in whom the Pope had a great confidence. After he had well informed them of the lose life of the Knights who refused to pay the Tax, he easily made them understand, that the Complaints which they made against the Grand Master had no other foundation than the dissoluteness of his Enemies. But to remove out of the Pope's thoughts all apprehensions of any tyrannical Government exercised by the Grand Master, he engaged several of the most sober and prudent Knights to give testimony to the Pope of the conduct and management of Zacosta.  
The Pope was ashamed that he so easily believed the accusers of Zacosta; and to make him some kind of public satisfaction, he caressed him, and showed him more than ordinary favours before all the world. But as his Holiness had been informed by Cardinal Ursini and the Archbishop of Milan of the debauchery of the disobedient Knights, he consulted with the Grand Master how to reduce them to their duty. He also made a speech in Latin to the Knights that were assembled upon the obligation that lay upon them all together, to lead a life not only virtuous and regular, but holy and irreproachable. The zeal of the Pope raised up that of the Chapter. They seriously fell to consider what way to take to remedy the disorders that were crept into the Order, and made Laws for the Reformation of Manners, which after they had been examined by the sixteen Knights, and some of the Cardinals, were approud and confirmed by the Pope himself.  
Aubusson was extremely rejoiced that he had not laboured in vain; but he had not the satisfaction to see the Grand Master himself put the Laws in execution; Zacosta did as soon as the Assembly was broke up. The Pope was so much the more aggrieud at it, because he looked upon himself to be in some sort the cause of his death; for it was the general report that this journey to Rome had shortened the days of that venerable old man. He was buried with a magnificence extraordinary in the Church of St. Peter, before the Chapel of St. Gregory. The Marble that was laid over him, sufficiently testifies him to have been illustrious in piety, in charity, and in wisdom; and his Epitaph might have served him for an Apology, had he had any need of it after his death.  
Baptista Ursini, Prior of Rome, was elected Grand Mailer, before the Knights were separated. He departed for Rhodes presently after his election, upon information that his presence was absolutely necessary there. When he came there he found the Treasury wasted, the Fortifications decayed, good part of the Ammunition spent, and all the Inhabitants of the Island alarmed at Mahomet's preparations. The Barbarian puffed up with his former Conquests, advanced every day like a furious Torrent that finds no resistance, or which becomes more impetuous and rapid by the resistance which it meets with. The death of the generous Scanderbag made him more insolent than ever; insomuch, that when he heard the news, he said, that he would now be soon Master of Christendom, since she had lost her Sword and Buckler.  
The first step which the Grand Master made to remedy these disorders, was to recall all the Knights which the journey to Rome had scattered, or which the pleasures of Italy, or the affairs of the Order hindered from returning.  
The Commander Aubusson, who was recalled by name, came to Rhodes at the same time that two Galleys were preparing to secure the Island of Negropont, into which Mahomet was entered by land with an Army of two hundred thousand men, by the help of wooden Bridges built upon great Barks in the Straight of Saint Mark, while Bassa Mahomet, his Favourite, assailed it by Sea with a Navy of two hundred Sail.  
The impatience which Aubusson had to fight the Infidels, made him eager for employment upon this occasion. The Grand Master had already named the Knight Cardona to command the Galleys; so that all he could do for Aubusson, was to give him the Command of a Troop of stout men, that were ordered to be the Companions of Cardona's Fortune. When the Galleys were ready, they set sail, and joined with the Venetian Fleet, which the Republic sent to the relief of Negropont. The Fleet appeared in view of the Isle when the Barbarians were ready for the assault; and Mahomet, who saw them coming, was not a little troubled. But all that preparation came to nothing, and the Knights were forced to lie still, and behold the City taken before their faces, through the cowardice or imprudence of the Venetians, who having the Wind and Tide favourable, instead of making use of the opportunity, stopped short, and fell to consultation, when it was time to act.  
The Grand Signior was so enraged at the succour which the Order had given to the Venetians, and the incursions which they had made into divers parts of Turkey, during his being busied in Negropont, that without any farther deliberation he declared War against them. A Herald published the Declaration by sound of Trumpet; and Mahomet's rage went so far, that he vowed in a furious passion that he would kill the Grand Master with his own hands, and cut to pieces all the Knights that fell into his power.  
After a War so solemnly and outrageously declared, there was nothing thought upon in Rhodes but to make preparations to withstand the fury of Mahomet. They began with a general Assembly so soon as the Galleys were returned; and Aubusson was in this Chapter one of the sixteen Knights who governed every thing, as he had been in that of Rome. He was also one of the Administrators of the Treasury, which were elected extraordinarily; for as there was little order in the Treasury, and for that the Chapter of Rome had very much exhausted it, they thought it convenient to trust the management thereof to six Knights of known integrity and ability, giving them an absolute and independent power as to what concerned the public stock, without obliging them to give any account to the Grand Master, or the Council.  
But besides those advantages which Aubusson had common with the rest of the Knights, he was also honoured in particular with a new dignity. The Auvergnian language represented to the Council, that in regard they had a great number of Knights that faithfully served the Order, and few dignities that depended upon the Council, they demanded for a recompense of their service, that they might have bestowed upon them some particular jurisdiction, as other languages had, that were less ancient and less numerous. The request seemed burr reasonable, so that the Chapter in favour of them made a new Capital Jurisdiction; they gave them authority to assign a Commandery for the revenue of the Charge, and declared at the same time, that the Bailie whom they should elect, should enjoy his Commandery in the same manner as other Bailies; that is to say, that he should enjoy all the prerogatives and pray eminencies that are appropriated to Capital Jurisdictions and Commanderies. They annexed the Commandery of Luteil to the new Bailywick, and after that Aubusson was elected Baily, as he that was adjudged fittest for the dignity.  
The first time that Aubusson took his place in Council as Baily, he spoke For Charlotte de Lusignan Queen of Cyprus. For that unfortunate Princess, whom the Rebellion of her Subjects had reduced almost to utmost extremity, could find no Sanctuary but Rhodes, after the ruin of her affairs. There she stayed for some time, and was entertained at the expenses of the Order.  
But in regard her ill fortune had not broken her courage, she resolved upon a journey to Rome, to desire aid of the Pope against her rebellious Subjects, or at least to oblige him to thunder out against them the anathemas of the Church. And that which made her absolutely determine upon that course, was the conveniency of the French Galleys then in the Port of Rhodes, which were suddenly to set sail for Naples. But in regard she was very poor, and had not wherewithal to defray the expenses of her journey, she desired those Knights who seemed to have most compassion and kindness for her, to speak to the Grand Master to supply her with what was neccssary to carry her into Italy.  
The Bailie Aubusson was very much troubled for the misfortunes of the Queen, and espoused her interest. He wished with all his heart, that the condition of the affairs of Rhodes would have permitted the Knights to have restored her to her Throne, nor were there any dangers to which he would not have exposed himself to serve her. But because there was no likelihood of undertaking any thing abroad, while the Order was in so much danger at home; he only represented, that since the Knights of St. John were not in a condition to restore a Queen despoiled of her Kingdom, that had put herself under their protection, that they would at least relieve a Queen in necessity, who did as it were crave their Alms. That it was true, that the Treasury was not over rich, and that Money was a precious thing in case of a Siege, but that there were certain occasions, wherein decency, generosity, charity and justice were to prevail above ordinary prudence; and that after all was done, that the Springs of Providence were inexhaustible, and that Heaven was never wont to fail them that inconvenienced themselves to relieve the miserable. He spoke with so much earnestness, and with such a lively and encouraging Air, that the Council ordered, notwithstanding the opposition of the Knights, either wanting generosity, or over-prudent, that the Queen of Cyprus should be plentifully furnished with all things necessary for her Voyage.  
The Bailie D'Aubusson was ordered himself, as one of the Managers of the Treasury, to give her what Money he should think fit; and he so well acquitted himself, that the Queen had no occasion to complain.  
But to return to the preparations for War, though the Venetian found the Turk employment sufficient in Dalmatia; and that the Alliance which the Venetians had made with Vssumcassan King of Persia, after the taking of Negropont, had somewhat discomposed the designs of Mahomet, however the Knights were careful to stand upon their Guard; and because the Walls were either ruined or weak in some places, they laboured continually in the repair of them, giving to Baily Aubusson the charge of looking after the Fortifications of the City. He had applied himself in his youth to that Military Science, wherein betimes he became so expert that the most able Ingineers could teach him nothing. He was not content only to repair the breaches, but he added something new to the ancient Works. He caused the Moats to be made wider and broader; but because it was noised about, that Mahomet was preparing his Galleys against the Knights of St. John, and that the Turkish Army which had raised their Siege from before Scutari, might well come to Rhodes, the Council thought it necessary for fear of being surprised, to plant their Cannon round the Walls of the City; which was also entrusted to Aubusson's care, who brought out all the great Guns and planted them upon the Walls and Ramparts, wherever occasion required.  
He was then Grand Prior of Auvergne, having succeeded a little before to the Chevalier Cottet, who died about that time; and surrendered his Bailie wick to the Knight de Rillac.  
But while they were thus preparing to receive the Ottoman Army, the Grand Master Baptista Ursini died also; the loss of whom might have ruined Rhodes, had it not been repaired with advantage. For in short, it was Aubusson himself whom the Knights assembled chose for Grand Master, Anno 1476. Never was Election more regular, nor with less disturbance than that. It was made according to all the forms which the Statute prescribes; and the sixteen Electors whom the Assembly chose out of the whole number of Languages, to elect whom they should think most capable of the supreme power, gave their suffrages with one consent for Peter D'Aubusson Grand Prior of Auvergne.  
At the name of Aubusson, the whole Assembly with redoubled shouts and acclamations testified their unparallelled joy. He only was sorry when he heard himself named, and at first he refused a Command of which he did not think himself worthy. But I know not by what inward motive, which afterward prevailed, he was forced to accept it, almost against his own will. Yet could he not refrain from tears, when according to the custom, he was carried in his Seat to the Great Altar upon the Shoulders of the principal Commanders. There it was that confessing his weakness to sustain so great a burden, he received the submissions of the Knights, after he had solemnly sworn upon the Evangelists to observe the Statutes of the Order.  
The news of this Election was no sooner spread over the Island, but the people made Bonfires, and testified all the signs of public joy. This caused every body to hope for a happy Government; neither was Mahomet so much feared, when they understood that the Grand Prior of Auvergne had the Authority in his hands.   

THE HISTORY OF Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of RHODES  
Book Second.  
SO soon as the Grand Master was acknowledged in Rhodes, his first care was to render to Pope Sixtus the Fourth that Obedience which is due from the Chief of an Order wholly devoted to the Sacred See.  
To that purpose he held a Council the next day after his Election, and nominated the Prior of Lombardy, together with the Prior of Rome, for that Embassy.  
Then he applied all his thoughts to the Government of a Dominion of which he had taken possession. And not to lose time, he began at the very first to act as Grand Master.  
Though the Ottoman Army were as yet far enough from Rhodes, nevertheless the Island was not a little infested by the incursions of the Barbarians. The Pirates, who landed day and night in several parts, pillaged the Cities, burned the Houses massacred and carried away many of the Christians.  
The Grand Master thought it convenient to put a stop to these disorders that so sensibly afflicted him, and for that purpose to build upon the Coast at such & such distances, severa● Forts and Towers to hinder the landing of the Pirates. But because this design required a great sum of Money, and that these Piracies had very much exhausted the Grand Master's Revenue, he ordained for the raising those works, that all those Knights who obtained Commanderies by favour only, should pay the value of the first years Revenue to the Order, so soon as they received their Commissions, without which payment the Donation should be void.  
The Grand Master also took in hand again, and went on with all those works which were discontinued by the death of the Grand Master. More especially he forwarded the new Wall of the Arsenal, and took upon himself the charge of looking after it. But in regard it was of high importance to look after the security of the Port, he ordered the Grand Prior of St. giles to provide a Chain to shut it up. He also at the same time gave order to the Chevaliet Raymond, who commanded in the Castle of St. Peter, to widen the Mote so far for the Sea to fill it, that the Brigantines of the Castle might ride there secure from Enemies and Tempests.  
The Castle St. Peter, which we shall have often an occasion to mention, was a strong place, situated in Cana, between two Arms of the Sea, which formed a Peninsula, built upon the ruins of the ancient City Halicarnassus, near the place where was formerly the Sepulchre of Mausolus, so famous for the love and grief of Artemisia. The Order of St. John is beholding for that Fortress to the prudence and valour of one of the French Grand Masters. For Philibert of Nailac, Grand Master of Rhodes, desirous to make his best advantage of the consternation of the Infidels, after the Battle wherein Tamerlain had taken Bajazet Prisoner, fitted out the Galleys of the Order, and sailed directly for Caria with the choicest Knights of the Order. He took a Castle there from the Turks, the situation whereof seemed to him to be of so much advantage, that he built in the same place another almost impregnable, which he called the Castle of St. Peter. This place it was which in the midst of the Turks Dominions served as a Sanctuary for the poor Christian Slaves that can get away from their Masters. And here it was, if we may believe the Writers of that age, that certain Dogs, of a particular breed, who by a strange instinct of nature, watched all the night long; and would fly upon the Turks, and fawn upon the Christians, as if they had known the one from the other.  
Among all the Knights which the Grand Master employed according to the variety of occurrences, and which were always nearest his person, there was not one in whom he put more confidence then in Charles de Montholon. He was a person of a very good judgement, and one that bore the character of being fierce in fight, temperate in counsel, and one that had a genius capable of every thing. This Knight acquitted himself of several Trusts that were put upon him for the defence of the City; and he it was that had the charge of fortifying St. Nicholas Fort.  
While the Grand Master-issued out his orders, and laboured himself to have all things in readiness to sustain a Siege. Antonio Loredano, General of the Venetian Fleet in the Island of Cyprus, understanding that Riccio de Marino, a Cypriot by birth, and a person born for intrigue, and one of the most zealous Servitors of Charlote de Lusignan, negotiated at Rhodes to the prejudice of Katherine Carnara, he sent an Ambassad or to complain in the name of the Duke of Venice, for that the Knights did entertain those that were Rebels to the Republic.  
It is impossible to understand the grounds of that Embassy, nor the answer of the Grand Master, without being informed beforehand of the Claims of those two Princesses to the Kingdom of Cyprus, and wherefore the Republic took Katharine's part, and opposed Charlot a.  
John de Lusignan King of Cyprus, one of the weakest and most effeminate Princes that ever swayed a Sceptre, had only one natural Son, who was named James de Lusignan, when he espoused his Second Wife Helena, of the House of the Paleologi, and Daughter of the Despote of Moria. By this second Wife he had a Daughter named Charlote, who was married to John of Portugal, Duke of Conimbria. This Prince, who had both wit and courage, being at the Court of Cyprus, easily wound himself into the management of affairs, and deprived the Queen of all that authority which the weakness of the King had permitted her to use.  
The Queen's Nurse, who governed all things before the marriage of the Princess Charlota, and was afterwards in little esteem, revenged the Queen's and her own disgrace, by poisoning the Duke of Conimbria. She had a Son whom she passionately loved, and whom during her grandeur, she had made a kind of absolute Minister of State. The death of the Prince restored to the Mother and the Son the authority which they had lost. But as persons of mean Birth usually forget themselves, when raised above themselves, the insolence of the one and the other was so excessive, that they used the Duchess most contemptuously.  
Charlota deeply resented both the death of her Husband, and the scorns put upon her when she was a Widow. She complained to her Brother James de Lusignan, and her Complaints were not in vain; for this natural Son of the King, equally cruel and ambitious, killed with his own hand the Nurse's Son, not so much to satisfy his Sister, as to govern in his room, and to open, to himself by that means a way to the Throne. The Queen, who tenderly loved her Nurse, could not be brought to pardon James whom she mortally hated besides; so that to avoid the anger of a Woman, a Queen, and a Mother-in-Law, he was forced to conceal himself in the Venetian Consuls House, and at length to quit the Kingdom.  
In the mean while the Duchess of Conimbria, who was in the flower of her age, and in the full splendour of her beauty, was remarried with Lewis Son to the Duke of Savoy. Soon after this marriage the King and the Queen died. The King by his Will declared Charlota his only Heir. But the natural Son, whom ambition blinded, had no regard either to the Laws of Nature, or the last words of a dying Prince. He made War upon his Sister and his Brother-in-Law, by the assistance of the Sultan of Egypt, who rather chose to have a Grecian Prince his Tributary, than any other. Marc Cornaro, a Gentleman of Venice, who lived at Nicossa, and was very rich, did not a little help the Bastard to make himself Master of the Isle, and usurp the Crown. The Usurper therefore, to acknowledge his services, and to fix the Venetians at the same time to his interests, espoused Katherine the Daughter of Carnaro, after the Commonwealth had adopted her. But this new Dominion was too unjust to endure long or happy. The Uncles of Katherine, who shared in the Government, poisoned the King of Cyprus, with a design to reign themselves. And it was in favour of his Widow that Michael Solomon came to Rhodes on the behalf of General Loredano, who was gone to Cyprus to restore Katherine to the possession of her Kingdom.  
The Venetian Ambassadors delivered a Letter to the Grand Master from the Duke of Venice full of reproaching and menacing Language. Afterwards he himself declared with much haughtiness, that since the Commonwealth had adopted Katherine Cornara, that it was an injury done to the Venetians, to favour Rebels that caballed against a Daughter of St. Mark, and their lawful Queen.  
So proud and surly an Embassy, no way pleased the Grand Master; however he thought it not convenient to provoke the Venetians by too severe an answer, at a time when the order had their hands full. Nor could he stoop to qualify them with an answer too much beneath himself. And therefore he answered with a Gentility and sourness mixed both together, that the Knights of St. John neither meddled with the differences in the Kingdom of Cyprus, nor would they suffer any Traitors in Rhodes; but that the Island being a free Island, they denied admittance to no Christians who desired to live among them like Christians.  
Solomon, was not satisfied with the Grand Master's answer; and Loredano less. He thought his own presence would do more than his Ambassador; for which reason he hastons away to Rhodes. When his Galleys entered the Port; the Master sent four of the Grand Crosses to congratulate his arrival, and to present him with all sorts of fresh Victuals; but being informed of the occasion of his coming, he sent to tell him plainly, that he could make him no other answer, than what he had already given him. That concise Declaration, caused the General to understand that his Voyage was lost: so that without considering any farther with himself, or so much as setting foot ashore, he returned with all the choler that could inspire a fierce and daring person, for having taken so much pains so little to the purpose.  
The haughtiness of the Venetians was not the only cause of the ill success of their Embassy. The kindness which the Grand Master had for Charlota de Lusignan, had a deep share therein. Though the Knights of St. John, had never openly declared for Katherine Cornara, nor were willing to contest with the Venetians, about their affair: certain it is, that in their hearts they were all for Charlota de Lusignan; whether it were that they were satisfied in the Justice of her cause; or that the compassion which they took upon her misfortunes, caused them to embrace her interests; or whether it were, that the most of them were taken with the Charms of her beauty. They had seen her several times at Rhodes, she was as yet young enough; for her misfortunes had not defaced her beauty, nor deprived her of her natural gaiety of humour. She spoke very pleasingly, and readily, according to the natural Genius of the Greeks; she dressed her self after the French mode, and her disposition, her air, and manners plainly showed her to be of Royal Extraction.  
The Grand Master had always admired in the person of Charlota, besides the graces of her body and mind, a prudence that exceeded age, and a constancy above all her sex. But the chiefest motive was, that she had put herself under the protection of the Knights; and for that she had already received all the assisting kindnesses that she could in reason expect. Her acknowledgement also obliged them to show her new marks of their esteem and affection. For she publicly declared that she had been more obliged to the Knights of Rhodes, then to all her nearest Relations: and because the Commonwealth had adopted her Enemy, she was wont pleasently to say, that if Katherine Cornara, were the Daughter of St. Mark of Venice, Charlota de Lusignan was the Daughter of St. John of Jerusalem.  
But perhaps the great esteem they had for Lewis of Savoy, her husband contributed more than any other reason, to make the Grand Master and Knights favourable to her interests. They were all persuaded that the order of St. John were beholding for their preservation to the house of Savoy: and it was a common opinion among them, that Amadeus the fifth, surnamed the Great, coming to the relief of Rhodes, and having constrained Ottoman to raise his Siege, took for his impress these four Letters; F. E. R. T. that is, Fortitudo ejus Rhodum tenuit, his Fortitude kept Rhodes. And that in his arms he changed the Eagle of Savoy into the Cross of the Order, to let all the World know his devotion to the service of the Knights, immortalising the memory of an action that had been so serviceable to them. Nevertheless the whole Story is but a Fable without foundation or probability. For the devise, Lewis of Savoy, Baron de Vaud, who died in the year 1301, stamped it upon his money, ten years before the Siege of Rhodes. And in the Cathedral Church of Agosta, upon the Sepulchre of Thomas de Savoy, the second of that name, there is still to be seen, a Dog lying at his feet, with this word engraven upon his collar, FERT, in Gotthick Letters, without any points, or separation of Letters. As for the Cross, the predecessors of Amadeus the fifth, carried it instead of the Eagle, either as Earls of Piedmont, the Arms whereof were the Eagle. Or in imitation of Amadeus the third, Earl of Savoy, who took the Cross upon him in the year 1147, and kept it at his return from Palestine, as a testimony of his expedition beyond the Seas. Amadeus the great also wore it himself in the year 1304. when he appeared at the Treaty which he made with Stephen Coligny, Lord of Andelot. But though the Story of Amadeus be false in all the circumstances, it passed for Currant at Rhodes, as well as in other places. And therefore it is no wonder, if the Grand Master led by the Popular error respected Amadeus in Lewis, Charlota's Husband, beyond either Katherine Cornara, or the Venetians.  
The Proposal which the sub-Basha of Pizzonne Governor of Lycia made to the Grand Master was heard more favourably than that of the Duke of Venice. There were at that time several Knights, and many subjects of the order, Slaves to the Turks. These Barbarians, in whom sometimes covetousness serves as a Counterpoise to cruelty, had a desire to get Money, and the Sub-Basha sent to Rhodes, a Merchant called Calchim Brahim, to traffic for the delivery of the Slaves. The Grand Master who stood in need of Men, and sought nothing more than the liberty of so many unfortunate Persons, was soon persuaded to treat with the Turkish Merchant; and he agreed also according to the Sub-Basha's command, that there should be a Truce for a Month between the Order and the Turks, that they might treat without interruption.  
During this Negotiation, there happened one thing very remarkable: one of the Turks that belonged to Cochim Brahim, one day offered his service to the Grand Master, to bring him an account from Constantinople▪ of the designs and readiness of the Ottoman Army; of which they had no certain news for a good while. He promised to make all possible haste, and after he had confirmed his words by most terrible Oaths, he said that he could not resist that inward Motion that compelled him to serve the Knights, against his Law and his Prince. Though the Grand Master did not much rely upon the faith of a person who had all the looks of a Traitor, yet he thought it not convenient to refuse an offer, which if it failed, could do no harm. So without confiding in the Turk, or making any semblance to defy him, he gave him a passport for his return; and out of hopes that God would be pleased to overthrow the designs of Mahomet, by the means of a Mahometan, he suffered the voluntary spy to go wherever the Spirit which he spoke of, conducted him.  
But if Heaven on the one side seem favourable to the Order of St. John▪ on the other side, it seemed no less incensed against it. For a prodigious Tempest arose all of a sudden, when the Sky seemed to be very serene. The Rain in an instant made an Inundation over all the Country; and the wind threw down several houses in the City; among the rest, the Archbishop's Palace. That which was most deplorable, was, that the violence of the Storm shook the old Wall of the City, and overturned a good part of the new. Had the Enemy then come, Rhodes had been lost; so far had he been from fining resistance there, that he had only come to view the Image of a city taken and sacked. The public Consternation made the mischief more lamentable. The People that are presently alarmed by any thing that appears extraordinary, took such a horrible Tempest, as a certain presage of their ruin: and the greatness of the danger had certainly cast them into a general despair, had not the constancy of the Grand Master supported them.  
Scarce was the Tempest over, when a Contest which the Greeks and L●…tins had, about I cannot tell what point of Doctrine, raised a Popular Tumult. Of a single despute, by degrees they made a real quarrel, which came to blows. And as in quarrels about Religion, every one is apt to ●all his particular transportment a piece of merit, their Animosity and ●…y one against another waxed so hot, ●hat several had been killed upon the place, had not the Grand Master made ●se of all his policy and authority to appease the Tumult. He did not ●…tent himself to make both parties ●…y down their Arms; and to punish ●e most culpable, to keep the rest within the bounds of their duty; but ●…e resolved to pull up the Root of the edition; and because the difference was about Religion, he engaged the archbishop of Rhodes, and the Me●opolitan of the Greeks to make a reconciliation.  
A pacification being thus made and the walls of the City being admost repaired; he made a visitation through the Island, to view himself, and to give order for the Fortification of those places that had need of defence. Having spent a whole month in this Visitation, at his return he found th● Greek Spy, who informed him tha● the Infidels made very great preparations, that their Fleet was to sandal with the first Wind from th● straight of Gallipoli, and that it wa● certainly confirmed at Constantinople that the great Turk would set upo● the Knights of St. John.  
The Grand Master wells kno● that it was one of the maxims 〈◊〉 the Turkish policy to give out fal● reports, the better to conceal th● true design. That it was their custo● to keep an Enemy in suspense f●… several years, to the end he might exhaust himself with continual an● needless preparations; that they cam● upon their Enemies, when they wer● weary of expecting them, and thought no more of them. But on the other side he was not ignorant that they did not always observe the same rules, nor the same method in War; but that it was one of their Stratagems to divulge the expedition which they intended, that people should not believe it; or that it was designed at a distance, and in the mean time to use all diligence imaginable to prevent the resistance and provision of the Enemy. And therefore he thought it the securest way to neglect nothing, and to provide against a siege, as if the intelligence of the Spy had been unquestionable.  
After he had taken upon him the charge of Captain General of Rhodes, which the Council besought him to accept, he chose; out for the defence of the City four Captains of assistance, as they were then called, and assigned to every one their duty and their Post. Besides the Knights which be had already sent to Lango, he sent with the Title of Captain of assistance the Knight Grimaldi with the same Commission for the Castle of St. Peter, which the Lieutenant of the Bailie of Germany was to visit by his order.  
In the mean time Intelligence came that the Fleet of the Barbarians had set sail out of the Straight to the number of two hundred Galleys, that the were then at the Island of Scio, and would soon be at Rhodes. This News made the Grand Master give order that all the Country people should retire into the Forts, and that no person should stir forth, till the Light Horse appointed for the Guard o● the Island, had visited the Coasts, and and all places where the Turks could lie in Ambuscado. He ordered also that all Strangers and Vagabonds that were in Rhodes should be all enroled▪ and that the Knight Friqueroly should command them. That all Vessels that were in port should be stayed, and that they should be furnished with all things necessary for their subsistence.  
He sent at the same time a Brigantine to Scio to observe the Enemy's Fleet, and he understood that the Infidels had in vain attempted the taking of Stalimene, where they had put all to fire and Sword; that from thence they sailed to Scio, where they had had no better success, but had made the same havoc: that from thence they were fallen into Lango. From whence, after they had wasted the whole Country, they were gone to Patmos, with a design upon the Castle of St. Peter, and thence to return to Rhodes: but understanding that the grand Master had put those Forts into a good condition, they had ●…eer'd another course, and after they had commited some spoil at Naxi, they were returned at length to Constantiople.  
This Intelligence somewhat enlivened the Rhodians, however it did nothing slak'n the Industry and Vigilance of the Grand Master. He knew the tricks of the Infidels, and it was one of his Maxims, that it was equally dangerous to he lulled asleep upon good news; as to be alarmed at bad. Moreover, he was advertized by his Spies, that the Turk was absolutely resolved to besiege Rhodes; that that expedition was deferred till the next year, and that Mahomet would command in Person. How untrue soever this intelligence might be, the Grand Master made his best advantage of it.  
As the hope of relief inspires both consolation and courage during a Siege, he ordered the Knight Cardona, Baily of Marjorca, who was gone into Catalonia and Arragon, to put in execution the orders of the last Chapter touching the new Taxes, to levy men, and to buy all sorts of Ammunition and provisions, to send them away with all speed, and to agree with the Masters, so that they should be obliged to enter the Port, though the City should be besieged.  
But because that many of the Knights were abroad, and that the Council was resolved to hold a General Chapter to provide for the present necessities the Grand Master wrote to all the Priors a Circularory Letter, the Original whereof is still preserved among the Records of Malta; wherein he laid before them the great necessity of their assembling altogether, the near approach of the Enemy, his power, the goodness of his Soldiers, and his determined resolution to ruin the Order of St. John. Then he besought them to lay those things to heart, and consider the dangers that environed them, and that it concerned their safety and their honour, not to prefer the pleasures of this world before the defence of all Christendom.  
After he had sent away this Letter, he represented very earnestly to the Council, that for the preservation of the people of Rhodes, it was necessary to repair, and regularly to fortify the Castle of Caravia, which fell to ruin. He gave them to understand that the Country where this Castle was built, wanted Inhabitants, because the Country people were forced to retire to the most remote places; and that it would in time be quite dispeopled, though that part were the most pleasant and fertile of all. He added that that Country was not to be quitted nor left desert, but that the whole Island would suffer very much; and that to avoid those Inconveniencies, he thought it very necessary to reinforce that place, so that it might be defended, and serve as a Retreat for the Country people like the other Fortresses. The proposal of the Grand Master was approved by all the Council, and for the more speedy putting it in execution, it was resolved at the same time, that a years revenue of the Office of the Grand Mastery, vacant by the death of the Grand Master, Baptista Ursini, which was put into the Treasury, should be employed upon that necessary use.  
And in regard the last Chapter had ordered the making new Walls and Bastions about the Castle of Rhodes, the Grand Master caused some of the Money that came from France to be paid out for that purpose.  
Lewis the Eleventh, who succeeded his Father Charles the Seventh, and who when he was only Dolphin, had honoured the Grand Master with his particular favours, forgot him not when he came to the Crown. He was informed in general of the condition of the affairs of the Levant by the Knight D'Ambrose, who was sent to receive the Money in the Priories of France and Champaign, which was due to the Order. But he was fully informed by the Chevalier Blanchfort, who came a little while after to present to his Majesty a Leopard, and two Falcons of a rare breed. The affection which he bore to the Grand Master, made him take those courses for the relief of the Knights, which perhaps he would not have done through any motion of zeal. That Prince requested of Pope Sixtus the Fourth, a Jubilee for all those persons in his Kingdom that would assist the Rhodians. He obtained that which he demanded, provided that all the Money that should be collected from the charity of the faithful, should be employed for no other use then for the defence of Rhodes; nor can it be said how much this Jubilee advantaged the Order.  
The affairs of Rhodes being thus settled at home, he began to rekindle the feud which was between Turks and Saracens; and having broken with the one, he omitted nothing, with the Pope's permission, to league himself with the other. His management was so successful, that the Saracens themselves furthered it as much as in them lay. The Sultan of Egypt, who fearing the Arms of Mahomet, sent to Rhodes his Favourite, Dovan Diodar, to renew the Peace with the Knights. After some conferences between the Saracens and the Grand Master, the Ratification was made: and the principal Articles of the Treaty were, that the Order should not set forth any Ships or Vessels to annoy either by Land or Sea the Subjects of the Sultan. That they should not permit them to join or assist with Soldiers, Pilots, or Guides, any foreign Rovers against the Souldan's interest. On the other side, that the Sultan should attempt nothing to the prejudice of the Knights: and that if they were assailed by their enemies, the Sultan should be obliged to assist and defend them. That the Vessels of the Order sailing through the Souldan's Dominions for the Holy Land, should pay no duties, and that they should be under his protection as friends. Lastly, that when the Christian Slaves at Cairo should be freed by their Masters, they should have liberty to return home; and that for those other Christian Slaves that were not affranchized, they should be exchanged for such other Moors that were Slaves, giving a Moor for a Christian.  
In regard the King of Tunis seemed less inclined to an Accommodation than the Sultan, either out of his barbarous haughtiness that made him despise the friendship of the Christians, or out of just resentment of the injuries which the Moorish Merchants pretended to have received from the Knights, the Grand Master did not think it any derogation from his dignity, to make the first proposal for the interest of the Faith. The Knight Lamant had therefore order to go to Tunis, who understood so well how to govern the African Prince, that a Peace was concluded in a few days. There was a Truce agreed upon for one and thirty years between the Moors and the Knights. And the Articles little different from those made with the Sultan, were sent to Rhodes for the Grand Master to sign. But there was this one Article particular, that the Knights, when they pleased, might have liberty to buy within the Territories of the King of Tunis, thirty thousand Comb of Wheat without paying duty, whatever prohibition to the contrary, or whatever scarcity were in the Country.  
The Grand Master sent back, with the Treaty signed, Jerom Barbo, one of the most prudent men in Rhodes to reside in Tunis, as Consul, for the Knights, or rather to observe the carriage and actions of the Moors, under pretence of looking after the trade of the Rhodians.  
The joy which the people had upon these new Alliances, was soon disturbed by a general famine in the City and Island, occasioned by the loss of certain Barks laden with Corn, that were bound for Rhodes, of which some were cast away, others taken by the Pirates. But when their misery was at the height, and that they began to despair of any remedy, by reason that the Sea raged in that manner, that no Vessels durst stir out, a Caravel was driven into the Port by stress of weather, laden with Corn. A relief so unexpected seemed to be a kind of miralce. But because that the Corn which the Catavel brought was not sufficient, the Grand Master gave order to the Captain of the Castle of St. Peter, to give Passports to all Merchants that would bring Corn to Rhodes. So that many Turkish Merchants more regarding their Profit then their Religion, laid hold upon the opportunity to dispose of their Grain, and brought to Rhodes so great a quantity of Corn, that all the Granaries were soon filled. Thus the Grand Master saved the lives of his people by the means of their enemies, and that famine which threatened the desolation of the whole Island, did but only serve to create a greater plenty.  
While these things passed at Rhodes, reports run at Constantinople that Mahomet was not seriously bend upon the enterprise against Rhodes; whether it were that he was afraid of any ill success, and was loath to hazard any thing after so many happy Expeditions, or whether he had any other Conquests in his designs. But some of his Favourites mortal enemies of the Knights of St. John, pressed him to lay aside all other designs, and to go on with that of the Siege of Rhodes.  
There were about him two famous Renegadoes, who had raised their fortunes by the same ways, and resembled one another very much in wickedness, though their Character were different; the one was called Demetrius, a Negropontine; though he were one of the most wicked wretches in the world, he had all the Air of a virtuous man; and never Greek knew how to conceal such a vast store of perfidiousness under the outward appearances of truth and justice. He had a subtle wit, supple and pliant, every way fit for Negotiation and Intrigue. He was also very skilful in War, and resolute upon occasion: after the taking of Negropont, he went to live at Rhodes, and from thence to Constantinople, where having taken the Turban, he so insinuated himself into the great ones of the Court, and gained by degrees the favour of Mahomet, by giving him an account of the situation and force of the Island. The other Renegado was of Rhodes also, and was called Meligale: This was a man without conscience or honour, stout and bold, but violent and rash; accustomed from his youth to all sorts of Crimes, and boasting in infamous actions. Having spent his Estate in debauchery, and finding himself deep in debt, he could find no other way to recruit himself then by renouncing his Religion, and betraying his Country. Before he went to the Court of Mahomet, he had more exactly than Demetrius, observed all the Fortifications of Rhodes, and had made a Platform of them, with an Inventory of the Artillery, and all the Munitions of the place. By that means he got access to Bassa Misach Paleologue, and insinuate himself into the favour of Mahomet.  
These two Villains, who were acquainted an Rhodes, entered into a strict Friendship, and consulted together the destruction of the order o● St. John of Jerusalem. The confidence that Mahomet reposed in them▪ gave them the boldness to declare themselves. However, they did not do it at first; they discoursed him several times with the Island of Rhodes, laying before his eyes the beauty o● the Country, the temperature of the Air, and the conveniency of the Harbour. After which they represented to him sometimes by word of mouth and sometimes by the information which they had given of the Grandees of the Court, that the Knights had usurped so fair an Island from the Mussel men that enjoyed it before, when Foulk de Velaret, a French man, and Master of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem settled himself there, that nothing could be more proper for the Ottoman Emperors, than a place that might facilitate the Conquest of Egypt and Syria; and lastly, that the Enterprise was no less easy than honourable. They told him that there was but little provision, and but few Soldiers in Rhodes; and showing him the Platform of the City, they gave him to understand that the Walls of the Castle were old and ruinous; that the Jews quarter was the most weak, and that when he had won St. Nicholas Tower, it would be easy to gain the rest. They added also that Rhodes being the passage to Italy, he was not to despise the Favours of Fortune that offered him the Conquest of Rome as well as of Constantinople; besides that, it did not become him to suffer a Captain of a Troop of Vagabond Knights, to refuse to do him that homage which Kings themselves were forced to stoop to.  
Now as Princes have their ears open to Councils that flatter their ambition, Mahomet easily hearkened to the instigations of Demetrius and Meligate. However, being wise, and knowing that precipitate rashness is the ruin of many great undertake, he thought it convenient to consult his chief Ministers before he resolved upon any thing: Who being of a contrary opinion to that of the Renegadoes, did all they could to divert him from the expedition against Rhodes. They represented to him, how that the City was newly fortified; that Soldiers and Ammunition were brought in every day; That the Grand Master was an extraordinary person, too courageous to yield, and too vigilant to be surprised. They put Mahomet in mind, that though the forces of the Knights were not comparable to his, yet he could never take the least Castle from them, with all the Armies which he had sent against them; and that it behoved him to consider the future by what had passed; besides that upon the least Motion which he should make that way, all Europe and Asia would take Arms in favour of the Rhodians. That the Grand Master had renewed an alliance with the Sultan of Egypt; and that without any great difficulty, he would be able to make the King of Persia his friend. That the Pope laboured to unite the Princes of Christendom against the Ottoman Empire; that all these Enemies united in a league together, would not fail to assault him in several places together, and make such a diversion of his own Forces, that in some place or other they would certainly recover to his loss. They added moreover, that there were other Islands to take before Rhodes. They showed him besides, that the Conquest of Rhodes would be no addition to his renown; that he might conquer new Empires, but never regain lost honour, which he hazarded all at once in a dangerous expedition, where he had nothing to win, but where he had so much to lose. At length they concluded all, that the safest way was by negotiation, and accommodation to engage the Knights to pay him some yearly tribute; and thereupon they advised him to send an Ambassador to the Grand Master to propose him Peace upon those conditions. But that they might not offend the Grand Signior in case of refusal, they were of opinion that the Embassy should be sent in the name of Zizim his Son, and Selebi his Nephew, telling him also that such a way of proceeding could not but take effect; or at least that during the negotiation, the Knights would not be so strict upon their guards; so that under the pretence of treaty, he might surprise the Castle of St. Peter, and facilitate thereby the enterprise upon Rhodes, whenever he should determine to undertake it.  
Whatever inclinations Mahomet might have to follow the counsel of the Renegadoes, he stuck to the advice of his Ministers; and it may be said, that at that time he made his ambition give way to his prudence. They made choice of Demetrius for the chief in the Embassy. That wicked man was easily satisfied that his opinion was not followed, partly for the confidence which they reposed in him, and partly our of the hopes which he had, that his counsel might afterwards be resumed into consideration, if the negotiation which he had taken upon him, did not produce any good effect. He was entrusted with a Letter to the Grand Master, written in Greek, and figned in Turkish by the two Princes. The Contents whereof are as follows, conformable to the Original Copy.  
TO THE Thrice Generous, and Thrice Famous Prince, Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of Rhodes; or, Thrice Honoured Father and Lord.  
INtegrity and Valour have so many Charms to allure the love of men, of whatsoever Nation or Religion, that it is no wonder if the Princes of the Blood Royal of the Ottomans, and of the Sect of the Prophet Mahomet, have no mean thoughts of friendship for you and your Order. We are obliged thereto, and in some measure forced to it, by the Renown which your Heroic Virtues have acquired over all the East. Yet some there are who have endeavoured to render you obnoxious to our Thrice Illustrious Emperor. And some of his Favourites continually exasperate him to turn his Victorious Arms against you, to abolish the Christian Name in your destruction. But we far from inspiring him with any such thoughts, have used all our endeavours to avert his formidable Thunder from your Dominions: and we have been so successful therein, that his Highness refuses not to hearken to Peace, willing to receive you into the number of his Allies. Of which we were desirous to give you information by Demetrius our Ambassador, to whom you may give credit. If you will but list'n to the Propositions which he shall make you on our behalf, as we conjure you to do, we are ready to be ourselves the Mediators, and the chief Promoters of your quiet. In expectation of your answer, we pray the All-powerful Creator of Heaven and Earth to preserve you in a flourishing condition. From the City of Patara, the 9th of February, in the year of the Birth of your Prophet Jesus, 1478.  
Your Sons, and good Friend, ZEM SCELBEI, Son of the Invincible Emperor Mahomet, and Che-Le-Bi, Sultan Sangiach of Mandachia.  
Though this Letter were but only a snare which the Sultan laid for the Grand Master, it was sincere on the Prince's side that were put upon the affair. For they had both of them a natural affection for the Knights of Rhodes, and something of an inclination to the Christian Religion; particularly Zizim, who was endued with much Generosity, and a Regularity in his conditions.  
After Demetrius had presented the Letter to the Grand Master, he declared to him that he did not demand but only a slight Tribute for the sole conditions of the Peace; and then craftily insinuated that the Proposals of the Princes were too civil to be denied by the generosity of the Knights. That the friendship of the Invincible Mahomet was above the value of a slight homage. That it highly concerned the Christians to act prudently with a Conqueror who made all the Earth to tremble, and who vouchsafed to be their friend.  
These fair words wrought little effect; for besides that the Grand Master was informed by his Spies, that they had a mind to surprise them, he conjectured of himself at the motives of the Embassy by the Person of the Ambassador; who was not unknown to him. The very name of Renegado gave him a suspicion. He looked upon Demetrius as a Traitor, whom it behoved him to beware of, and not as a person with whom he could negotiate securely. So that the affair miscarried at first, where Mahomet thought he had done for the best. Of so great importance it is for the success of Negotiations and Embassies to employ persons of Integrity and honour; or at least such as have the reputation of being so.  
Nevertheless the Grand Master dissembled his distrust, and judging how advantageous a suspension of Arms would be, till such time as all the warlike Provision which he expected every day were arrived, together with the Knights which had been summoned, he did not utterly reject the Propositions of Demetrius, neither did he absolutely accept it: and whatever Artifice the cunning Fox could use to draw from him a precise answer, all his reply was, that the Knights of Rhodes could not treat with Mahomet without the permision of the Pope; that questionless his Holiness would not oppose the peace, provided that his Master would hearken to those Conditions which had formerly been concluded with Amurath, that is to say, without any mention of Tribute. That in expectation of the Pope's answer, it would do well, if so it pleased the Ottoman Princes, that there should be a Cessation of Arms, and liberty of Commerce between the Christians and the Turks.  
The Renegado, who well understood how nice the Knights were in point of Tribute, and thought of nothing more than a positive refusal at first, contented himself that he had set the business a foot. And the better to bring it to a happy conclusion, promised of his own accord, in the names of Zizim and Shelebi what the Grand Master had desired, and departed very well satisfied that he was not flatly denied.  
The Grand Master wrote a very civil Letter to the two Princes; he thanked them for their kind endeavours, and highly applauded their good intentions; but he declared at the same time, without so much as mentioning the Tribute, that he could not come to any conclusion, till he knew the Pope's resolution, and how the Christian Princes stood affected to it, who made the affairs of Rhodes their own business.  
Demetrius had no sooner given an account of his Negotiation, but the Princes sent him back, with order not to speak a word more of the Tribute, and to demand only some small present, to cover with a specious Title that submission which Mahomet exacted from the Knights. But their answer was still the same that they could make no engagement, till they had heard news from Rome. All that they could farther say, was, that those Presents which were exacted yearly, did very much resemble presents, and that the Knights of Rhodes were not overforward to make any kind of Presents to the Grand Signior.  
Demetrius understood well enough what they meant. However he was yet in hopes that the Grand Master might at length be brought to relent and to engage him thereto by his Interest, he promised him again a suspension of Arms, with liberty of Trade. Nevertheless the Grand Master did not fail to prepare for War as if their had not been so much as any discourse of peace; and that Mahomet should not be informed of any thing, he ordered that no Vessel should stir out of the Port. He soon perceived that the Infidels were not very curious in observing Truces: and the advice which was brought him that the Turkish Brigantines had taken certain Vessels belonging to the Order, near the Islands of Calamo and Episcopia, confirmed him more and more in the thoughts which he had, that all this Treaty was but an Artifice; and he rather believed that the Turks were so much the more ready to beseige Rome, by how much they seemed to be farthest from any such design. So that he renewed all the Orders which he had given out for the security of the City; he also sent to Naples the Knight D'Albalat of Arragon to buy Corn, and besides that, as he was resolved that the Barbarians should not carry by famine what they could not win by force, he sent into Egypt and Syria for plenty of all sorts of Provisions.  
In the mean time the Knights arrived at Rhodes from all parts of Christendom. And in regard the assembly which was to be held the first of May, ●…as put off by the Pope's Bull, and deferred to the 28 th' of October, by an order of Council they appeared almost all at a time.  
The Grand Master, at the opening the Assembly, made a speech that made no small Impression upon their Spirits. After the usual ceremonies and Formalities, the sixteen who were elected for the Government of all things, laid new Taxes upon all the Commanderies, and earnestly desired the Grand Master to take upon him the administration of the Revenue. Though he had other weighty business enough to do, and that this alone was sufficient to take up a man's whole time, he readily accepted it; but the easiness wherewith he acquitted himself of a charge so burdensome, obliged the Knights to qualify the hardness of the Labour by the entire confidence which they manifestly let him see they had in him. They gave him full power to employ to what uses, and after what manner he should think go●… all the money that should be brought into the Treasury. They also ordered that all the Ammunition and Warlike provisions should be put into his hands, to distribute as he should see cause. Moreover that he should have power to create the Receiver General of Avignon, and all the other Receivers, by one Warrant alone signed by his hand: that without having regard to the priority of Languages, nor the antiquity of the Knights, he might make the Castellane of Rhodes, the Judges and Bailie of Commerce, the Captain of the Castle St. Peter, and all the Captains of the Galleys. That he might also choose the Captains of the three Towers, and the Gates of the City; that in case the Grand Commandery of Cyprus, the bailage of Lango, and the Office of Procurator General at the Court at Rome came to be vacant during his administration, it should be free for him to dispose thereof at his pleasure. But to the end he might not be thwarted in the exercise of his charge, they forbidden the Bailiffs, the Priors, and all the rest of the Knights to meddle in any manner whatsoever with the treasury. They also gave him the liberty to retain next his person, or to send to what place he pleased, seven of the Grand Crosses which they named, and to choose others by his own particular authority, if any one happen to miscarry. Lastly, because the revenue of the Grand Master was very much impaired, because of their extraordinary expenses for the Fortifications of the Island, or for the aid of the Subjects of the Order, they permitted him to keep in his hands during his life, three of those Commanderies which he had the privilege to dispose of himself, as Gran● Master.  
Hardly were the affairs of th● Chapter at an end, when news wa● brought, that the Infidels had shew● themselves before the Castle of St Peter, under pretence of parlying upon an accommodation, but in trut● to surprise the Garrison. The Gran● Master wrote further to the Governor of the Castle, and commanded him, by virtue of the holy obedience, to have no commerce with them, and to treat with them as i● there were no truce in being. Neither was he satisfied in giving him his Orders, and advertising him of the Ambuscades of the enemies; he also sent him a considerable reinforcement of Knights and Soldiers which forced the enemy to retire.  
But that the Order might not be in want of Money, when there was more occasion for it then ever, the Grand Master, according to the absolute authority which he had in the management of the Treasury, established the Knight D'Erland his Lieutenant in the Priories of St. Giles' and Tholouse, with ample power to change the Receivers and the Treasurers; to be urgent with bad Paymasters, and to punish them if there were occasion; and to do his utmost to raise what large sums he could. He dispatched away the Knight Chialli for the same cause, into the Priories of France, Aquitain, and Champaign, after he had honoured him with the dignity of Knight Hospitaller of the Order, which he had taken from the Knight de Molay, for not appearing at Rhodes according to the time prefixed in the Bull. He more severely handled also other Knights, who being obliged to have made their appearance at the Assembly, had contemned his Orders, and instead of hastening to the defence of the Island, loitered at home, either plunged in the pleasures of an effeminate life, or taken up with the affairs of the world. For after he had declared them disobedient and Rebels, he took away from them their habit, and cut them off from the body of the Order.  
Now, though Mahomet got no advantage by all his devices, however he continued his undermining practices; imagining, according to the principles of his policy, that men were so much the more to affect credit and reputation, by how much the more those persons, with whom he treated, had a distrust; and that there are such moments wherein the wisest are surprised, when a man knows how to maintain a cheat long enough.  
Therefore in some measure to repair the fault which he had committed, in making choice of a suspected person, he sent a Turk of merit to Rhodes; and to take off all suspicion, he resolved to appear, and own the negotiation himself. The Ambassador did all that lay in his power to persuade the Rhodians to believe that the Grand Signior sincerely dedesired a Peace; and he declared in full Council, that he came as well on the Grand Signior's behalf, as on the part of Zizim, to conclude it in the most amicable manner that might be. He delivered himself worthy and nobly, and far from that insolent and disdainful air with which the Turks are wont to treat the Christians, with whom they negotiate; there appeared neither pride nor haughtiness in his behaviour. But all this affected carriage, whereby the Ambassador of the Ottoman Court pretended to dispel the suspicions of the Grand Master, did but augment them. He conjectured that such an extraordinary show of sincerity was but a mask of more fine and subtle deception; that there was no more credit to be given to the words of the unknown person, then to the Greek Renegado: For which reason he gave the second Ambassador no other answer than he had given the former. But because that he who intends to defend himself from a concealed enemy, is not by any means to make his discovery public; and for that there are certain decencies to be observed with Illustrious enemies, how perfidious soever they be; The Grand Master would not permit the Turkish Ambassador to have the least glimpse of his intentions, but sent a Knight along with him, to let Mahomet understand that the Order was ready to make Peace with him upon the ancient conditions, but that he could not submit to the payment of any duty. Mahomet extremely resented a refusal so plain and so haughty, but he had so much power over himself as to disguise it. And therefore instead of manifesting his displeasure against the Ambassador of Rhodes, he showed him all the marks of his favour; and the better to make good his Politics, he added rich Presents to his flattering words.  
Yet all this did not dazzle the eyes of the Grand Master: and therefore considering what he had done, he thought it but reasonable to put himself in a posture to expect the utmost of extremities, believing it would not be long ere the Grand Signior's fury would break out.  
Mahomet indeed set forth from Constantinople with a Puissant Army. But instead of turning towards Rhodes, he marched toward Scutari, whether it were out of an intention to amuse the Knights, making them believe that he had no thoughts upon them; or whether he had a design to affright them, and at the same time to punish the Venetians for their obstinate resistance. The City was besieged three years by the Turk; and it may be said, that never place was more vigorously attacked, nor more generously defended. The Assailants gave several Onsets at several times; and if we may believe the Writers of that time, they threw so many Arrows and Javelins into the Cities, that the besieged had enough to make up the breaches of the Walls, and for necessary firing when their wood was spent. And that which was more strange, they were nothing dismayed by the cruelties of Mahomet, who caused three hundred Prisoners to be cut in two in view of the Town. The only want of Victuals and Soldiers constrained them to surrender. And the reducing of Scutari was one of the Articles of Peace which the Turks made with the Commonwealth of Venice.  
The Grand Master after that made no question but that all the fury of the Ottoman power would fall upon him. But because the affair of Rhodes was the common cause of the Church, and that without the assistance of the Christian Princes, it was not possible to hold out against the Barbarians any long time, he dispatched away three Knights of singular worth to the principal Courts of Europe.  
And because it was of high importance in case of a Siege, that some of the Knights should continue abroad to solicit the Succour of the Princes, and to manage the other affairs of the Order, the Grand Master ordered the Knight Piozzasco, whom he had established his Lieutenant, when he sent him to Sixtus the fourth, and who had always been resident in the Court of Rome. He commanded the Knight Blanchefort, his Nephew, whom he sent to Lewis the eleventh to stay in France with the Knights de Bridiers, and de Dauvois, who accompanied him in his Embassy. And having thus settled his affairs, he resolved to put himself into a posture to receive the Barbarians, fully believing that the Turkish Army would suddenly appear before Rhodes. Nor was his conjecture false. Mahomet put off his Vizor; and as before his ambition gave way to his prudence, now his prudence gave way to his choler and despite. He could no longer endure that a small Republic should brave him in the very bosom of his Empire, and the haughtiness of the Knights augmented his so far, as to make him fall into transports of rage, which would not permit him to listen to the reasons of his wisest Ministers. He believed none but Demetrius and Meligale: those two Renegadoes obtained the sole disposal of his thoughts; and according to the custom of interested Courtiers, who flatter the passion of the Prince to satisfy their own; they so vehemently incensed him against the Rhodians and the Order of St. John, that he resolved to lay siege to Rhodes.  
The better to fix and settle so important an enterprise, he held a secret Council, to which he called the most expert Engineers of all his Armies; but the person he most confided in, was George Frapam, a Germane, who was profoundly skilled in the art of War and who after he had lived some years in the Island of Scio, went to Constantinople, where being married, he had access to the Grand Signior, who loved men of Parts. He had formerly been at Rhodes, and had taken a● exact platform of the City. Upon this platform, as that which was adjudged the most regular of all the rest, he began to lay his contrivances for the management of the siege. Mahomet, who was resolved not to go in person, whether for fear of hazarding his Renown, or else not caring to honour the Knights by fight against them himself, declared his Bassa, Misach Paleologus, General of his Army. This was his principal Favourite, and the most Illustrious Bassa of the whole Empire. He was a Greek of the Imperial House of the Paleologi, born a Christian, and bred up in Christianism. He forsook his Religion to save his life at the taking of Constantinople, when the Conqueror put to death all that fell into his hands of the Family or Blood of the Emperor Constantine. Having abjured his faith, it was no hard thing for him to obtain the highest Commands in the Ottoman Court. His wit, his courage and deportment, were answerable to his birth. He had by degrees habituated himself to the customs of the Turks; yet not altogether forgetting the fashions of the Greeks; so that in him the rudeness of the one, and the politeness of the other, seemed to be both joined together. When he had gained the favour of the Grand Signior, he accompanied him in all his military Expeditions, and always shared both in his designs and Conquests. So that in time he acquired great experience in War; and it was the general opinion of Turkey, that next to Mahomet, there was none more fit to undertake the Conduct of a difficult enterprise then Bassa Paleologus.  
In the mean while, for fear the Grand Master should have advice of what passed at Constantinople, Mahomet set guards upon all the Passes, and commanded his Governors to stop all Posts, and to open all Letters. He ordered also a great number of Infantry to fall down through Asia, the less. But that it should not be thought that he intended a siege, while he prepares the great Ships which were to carry the extraordinary pieces of Cannon; he sent forth out of the Straight a hundred and fifty light Ships with ordinary Artillery, giving it our at the same time, that the whole design of the Ottoman Court, was to pillage the Sea Coasts and Islands of the Christians.  
Bassa Paleologus stayed not till the great Fleet was ready; he went abroad the first Vessels that set sail; and to conceal his design from the Turks themselves, he steered a course different from that of Rhodes. Mahomet was pleased that Demetrius and Meligale should bear the Bassa Company together with the Germane Engineer, from whom he promised himself great matters.  
All these precautions of Mahomet and the Bassa, could not prevent but that the designs of the Ottoman Court were discovered at Rhodes, the Grand Master being informed of every thing by his Spies which he kept in the Ottoman Court. However the News did not come much before the Galleys that set out first began to appear. For they showed themselves within sight of the Island upon the fourth day of December in the year 1479. and came to an Anchor before the Fort of Fano. The General of the Turks, who would not be idle, in expectation of the rest of his Forces, immediately landed the Cavalry which he had brought with him; and ordered his Avant Curriers to harrass the Country, and burn the Villages.  
The Knight Rodolphus of Wertemberg, Baily of Brandenburg, whom the Grand Master had assigned to sustain the first efforts of the Enemy did not suffer the spahis punctually to execute the Orders of their General; for he charged them at the head of the Light Horse which he commanded, and after he had slain several of them, forced the rest to betake them to their Ships.  
This Repulse constrained the Bassa to retire; but it was only to attack Felo, one of the Islands which the Knights possessed in the Archipelago. The Turks battered the Fort without ceasing for eight days together, and several times they scaled the Walls, but all to no purpose; for the Knights, the Soldiers, and the Country men that defended the place, made so stout a resistance, that the Enemy raised his Siege with no small loss and disgrace. Whereupon the Grand Master did not only commend in full council the valour of the Garrison, but also sent considerable rewards to those that had most courageously behaved themselves, proportionable to their condition and merit.  
These first Exploits encouraged the Christians, though they did discourage the Infidels. Nor did Misach Paleologus lay so much to heart the misfortune of his Arms, as the death of Meligale. That Renegado, whom the Bassa reserved for great occasions, was struck with a prodigious disease upon the Sea, which carried him off in a few days. His body was all over nothing but corruption; and besides the insupportable stench of his Corpse, the Worms which eat him alive, rendered him a miserable spectacle to all the world; the sight of which was dreadful to behold. After he had endured the utmost extremities of Torment, and in vain implored relief from Heaven, he died blaspheming God, and cursing men, almost in view of Rhodes. Paying that punishment which his Country exacted from him by a most Tragical end.  
In the mean time the Turkish Fleet passed the Straight of Gallipoli, and the Forces that came by Land, rendezvoused in Lycia, as they were appointed. There the report ran that Mahomet was suddenly dead, and that the Soldiers which marched from all parts, were only to prevent such Commotions and Insurrections as are wont to happen upon the death of the Emperor. A Greek Spy, who was discovered at Rhodes, and the Prisoners that were taken and sent thither by the Knights of the Fort of Fano, confessed all they knew. By other means also the Grand Master understood that the Enemy's Fleet drew nearer and nearer, and being one that was accustomed to false reports, he believed nothing less than the death of Mahomet; and as for that of Meligale, he looked upon it as an example of Divine Justice, and a pledge of Victory.  
However he omitted not to take all the caution that Humane prudence could require. And therefore considering that the Churches of St. Mary and St. Anthony, that stood without the City, and very near the Walls, might serve for shelter for the Infidels, and annoy the Town; he caused them to be pulled down. He ordered that the Inhabitants who had Gardens and Houses about the City, should cut down all the Trees that did not bear Fruit, and that they should bring into Rhodes as much of the Wood as they could. He commanded them also to cut down all the Barley and Oats that were grown up, that the Enemy might want forage for their Horses, and also all the Wheat, and to spoil the Grass and green Plants. After which having chosen for Captains of the Successors, the Hospitaller, the Admiral, the Chancellor and Treasurer of the Order; he gave instructions to the Knights of the several Languages what they should severally act: exhorting them in a few words to acquit themselves faithfully of thei● duties. Behold, said he, Brave Knights an opportunity at length for ye a●… to show what ye are. We have provisions of all sorts in abundance, a●… though our forces are not so numero●… as those of the Enemy, they are bo●… valianter and better disciplined. Italy France, Germany, all Christendo● will send us relief, and we are assured of Victory, provided we do our duty Jesus Christ as our Captain in the Wa● he will not forsake them that fight f●… his name's sake; And it will only belong to you, when you have caused t●… Infidels to raise their Siege, to dri●… them out of Constantinople, with t●… assistance of the Christian Princes.  
But because the Grand Master w●… fully persuaded, that affairs the be ordered are not always successfu●… unless favoured and prospered by G●… himself: he caused public praye● to be made to Heaven, and sent f●… an Image of the Virgin. It was th●… which the Rhodians worshipped upon Mount Palermus, and which after Solyman had taken Rhodes was carried to Malta, where it still remains in the Church of St. John the Baptist. What the fatal Image of Minerva was to the people of Troy, that was the Image of the Virgin to the people of Rhodes; who believed they had nothing to fear while she was in the midst of them.  
In the mean while the Sentinel that stood upon the top of St. Stevens Mount, gave a Signal, to advertise that the Enemy's Fleet appeared. The Grand Master hasted to the Mountain to satisfy his own eyes, carrying along with him men expert in Sea affairs, who were all of one opinion, by the course which the Fleet steered, that they were bound to join with the Bassa, who stayed for them in the Port of Fesco; there to embark all his Forces. Nor were they deceived. For the Soldiers being embarked with all speed, the Ottoman Fleet composed of a hundred and ●ixty Sail, steered directly along the Coast of Lycia, with a fair Gale: a● length it appeared before Rhodes again the 23 d of May in the year 1480 Then to see the excellent order of th● Barbarians, to hear the joyful shout of the Barbarians, the sound of th● Fifes, the noise of the Trumpets it seemed, as if they had been Triumphant Victorers making their entr● into a conquered City.   

THE HISTORY OF Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of RHODES.  
Book Third.  
THE City of Rhodes so famous in Antiquity for Art and Science, there cherished, and for the birth of so ma●y famous men, is seated by the Seized upon the descent of a little Hill, ●hich rises insensibly, in a pleasant ●lain, in the North part of the Island, ●hat bears its name. It is crowned with several little Hillocks full of clear Springs; and which in the time of the Grand Master, whose story 〈◊〉 write, were all shaded with Orange, Pomegranate Trees, and others of the same nature. It was then well built, immured with a double Wall fortifyd with several. Towers, tha● were encompassed every one with a kind of Ravelin or Bastion. A grea● Rampart sustained these Walls within and a large and deep Moat environed them without: But toward the South, and on that side wher● the Jews inhabited in the low Tow● the Towers were something mo●… distant, one from another; for whic● reason that side was so much th● weaker.  
The Quarter where the Knight lived, which was called the Mansion● of the Languages, and was a kin● of City by itself, was the strong not only for its situation, but al● for the fortification which art had a●ded to it. For besides that the S● washed it upon the North and Ea●… it was defended by two Bulwark nine Towers, and by a particular Fortification that extended if self to the Sea. A very thick Wall, and flanked with good. Towers, separated it from the low Town, which the people and inhabitants possessed. The Palace of the Grand Master that run along the Mansions of the Knights upon the West side, was better fortifyd then the rest, having three or four distinct enclosures.  
The Port that was the chief defence of the whole City, looked toward the East, and somewhat toward the North. It was made by two Moles, that stretching themselves from the Walls of the City, and almost meeting one another, left no more room but for one Galley at a time to enter. The entry was guarded by two strong Towers, seated upon two Rocks, upon which formerly stood the famous Colossus of Brass, which was accounted one of the seven wonders of the World.  
Two little Bosoms of Sea did as it were adorn the Port upon the North and South sides, and a Mole that stretched itself above three hundred paces into the Sea, at the end whereof stood the Tower of St. Nicholas, which closed the bosom that lay upon the North.  
If we may believe the old Arabic Chronicles, intermixed with many fables, this Fort was anciently built by an Arabian Prince, called by the name of Muhavias', a great Soldier, and Son of Abi Safian. This Prince, from Governor of Egypt and Syria, coming to be Caleph nine and thirty years after Mahomet, was no sooner seated upon the Arabian Throne, but he resolved to conquer all the Roman Empire; and his first design was to attaque Constantinople by Sea and Land. But he was advised to go first to Rhodes, which the exploits of the Romans made every day more famous than other, among all the Nations of the World. For the bringing of which enterprise to pass, having besieged the City, he built a Tower just by the Port, upon the Rocks that ran very far into the Sea. And those fabulous Stories relate that he built this Tower so high, that the top of it touched the Heavens, and the foundations reached to the centre of the Earth.  
The truth is, that after the Venetians had raised the siege of Rhodes, in the year 1464, the Grand Master, Zacosta, considering of what great advantage a Fort built upon those Rocks would be for the defence of the City, began that very year to build the Tower of St. Nicholas, and that Philip, Duke of Burgundy, gave twelve thousand Crowns in Gold to finish it; which engaged the Knights to set the Arms of the Duke of Bungundy, and the Provinces under his subjection, upon the Tower.  
This was the condition of the City of Rhodes, when it was besieged by the Army of Mahomet. The Fleet came to an Anchor just against St. Steven's Mount; and maugre all that the Knights could do to hinder their landing, the Turks got footing, and lodged themselves immediately upon the Mount, and in the neighbouring plains: At the same time they brought ashore all their Artillery also, and their Engines of War. The Bassa had in his Army, which consisted at least of a hundred thousand men, all the best Squadrons of Anatolia, the choice of the Spahis and Janissaries, above four thousand Volunteers, several Beys of Romania and other Governments; and lastly, several Companies composed of the Veteran Bands that had followed Mahomet in all his military Expeditions.  
No sooner were they encampd, but a Troop of Volunteers came briskly up to the walls of the City, to brave the Rhodians; whether the first heat with which they landed were not yet allayed, or whether they thought that some bold and irregular action could do no harm at the beginning of the Siege. But their precipitation cost them dear; for a party of the Knights sallying out upon them, charged them so vigorously, that after they had slain a great number of them, they put the rest to flight. The Knights were no sooner re-enterd, but the Barbarians returned in better order, and far more numerous, to observe the condition of the Town. The Renegado, Demetrius, was in the head of them; in whom the Bassa most confided, since the death of Meligale. Thereupon the Knights made a second sally, commanded by Antony D Aubusson, Viscount of Monteil, the Grand Master's Brother.  
He arrived at Rhodes but some days before, with an Equipage and a Train answerable to his Quality, He came to Rhodes not only with an intention to go to Jerusalem, and to visit the holy Sepulchre, according to the custom of those times; but also to assist the Grand Master, his Brother, and to serve the Church, finding himself in a Siege with which the Knights were menaced every moment. He was a person of great Honour and Generosity, very skilful in the art of War, and one that profoundly understood the World. He was made Captain General of the Rhodians upon his arrival, the Heads of the Council, who knew his worth, making choice of him with one consent. He had brought along with him several Gentlemen of March, that were his Tenants, or else his Friends; not to speak of other Soldiers that accompanied him, of which the chief were Lewis of Chaon, of one of the most noble Houses of Anjou, William Gomare of Xaintonge, Matthew Brangelier of Perigord, Claudian Colombe of Bourdeaux, Charles le Roy of Dijon, and Lewis Sanguine of Paris.  
The Viscount of Monteil stayed not till the enemy came up to him, but marched to them with his Sword in his hand, and charged them vigorously with his Troop. The Turks sustained the first charge without stirring, and Demetrius encouraged them so by his words, and his example, that they at length made the Christians give ground. They had perhaps put them to disorder, if the Viscount of Montel had not impetuously spurred his Horse upon the chief of the Barbrians, who seemed to him to be the most resolved and courageous. The Knights followed the Viscount, and behaved themselves so valiantly, that the enemies were presently cut to pieces, manger all the resistance they made. Demetrius defended himself with all the courage that honour and fury could inspire into him. But his Horse being killed under him, he was himself thrown to the ground, and trampled over by the Horses. Insomuch, that he who had abjured the Faith, and conspired the destruction of Rhodes, advanced the design of the Infidels no more than his friend Meligalus; over whom he had only this advantage, to die with his Arms in his hands, and signalizing his valour; a death too noble for a Renegado and a Traitor.  
The Rhodians in this encounter only lost the Knight de Murat, of the Auvernian Language, and one of the bravest persons of the Order. He was encompassed by a Body of spahis, being in the pursuit of some that ran away, and run through in a thousand places, while he was disarming Demetrius. The Turks put his head upon on the end of a Lance, and to comfort themselves for their misfortune, carried it into their Camp with most hideous yell, and shouts of derision. The body was recovered out of their hands by the Knights, and the Grand Master caused him to be interred with all the pomp and honour that so renowned an action deserved.  
These first attempts not having succeeded with the Infidels, the Dutch Engineer advised the battering of St. Nicholas Tower, believing that if they could master that, the City would soon surrender; or at least, that they should thereby hinder any Vessel from getting into the Port. The Bassa believed the Engineer, and the Turks carried three great pieces of Artillery into the Gardens adjoining to St. Anthony's Church, which commanded the Tower. They presently cut down the trees, and after they had placed their Gabions to secure themselves, they shot without ceasing.  
The Grand Master immediately raised a Counter Battery with three pieces, in the Garden of the Auvernian lodgings. Now, in regard the noise of the Cannon, that never lay still all day long, alarmed the inhabitants, he walked his rounds about the City, accompanied by the principal Knights, confirming the courage of the people by his presence. He also visited all the Posts the same night, encouraging the Soldiers, and exhorting them to fight courageously for the Faith.  
No sooner the day began to peep, but the Germane Engineer appeared upon the brink of the City-Moat, humbly desiring the Guards to open the Gates for him; but the Soldiers had certainly shot him, had not some of the more prudent Knights prevented them. Thereupon, by the command of the Grand Master, he was let in, and conducted to the Castle. He was a person of a very good presence, and tall in stature; he had a crafty wit, quite contrary to the character of his Nation; bold enough, and one that knew how to use his tongue. He was known at Rhodes, and was accounted one of the most skilful Artists of his time. Being examined what reason had brought him thither, he answered, that he came to defend Rhodes. That he could no longer endure the reproaches of his own conscience, for having employed his art against the faithful; that preferring his Salvation before his Fortune, he did absolutely renounce the advancement which he might expect among the Turks; that he should be happy to die in the defence of the Faith. That he desired nothing else of God; but that he durst not hope for a favour, of which he was so unworthy. The Grand Master commended his zeal, without manifesting the least mistrust; and having exhorted him to persist in his good resolutions, he examined him concerning the Army of the Turks.  
The Germane, the more bold, because he thought himself unsuspected, spoke with an air and a countenance that showed nothing of a Traitor, that the Turkish Army was above a hundred thousand men effective besides the Forces that were coming to join with them; that the Turks, besides their ordinary Cannon, had some prodigious pieces, above eighteen foot long, that carried bullets of three foot in diameter. That they were resolved to perish all, rather than think of raising the Siege, which was the only thing that grieved him. He spoke with so much confidence, that many believed what he said, to be real. The Grand Master, that he might venture nothing, yet make use of the opportunity which Fortune had put into his hands, thought he might make use of the Engineer, though he were resolved not to trust him. To that purpose he commanded the Knights, who had the charge of the Artillery, to consult him in every thing, and not to raise any battery without him. And to prevent his return to the Turks Camp, or from keeping any correspondence with them, he ordered six of the stoutest Soldiers in the City always to attend him, to whom he gave private instructions to keep him always in sight, and never to leave him alone all at a time.  
Though the Grand Master had sent to Rome the Knight Cardona, when the Infidels first appeared before the Isle; however he failed not to send again, so soon as they were landed, He sent also to the King of France and to the other Christian Princes. But because the Letter which he had sent to the absent Priors, had not taken that full effect which he desired; he dispatched away another, wherein, after he had given an account of the beginning of the Siege to the Knights that were not yet returned; he declared to them also that having put all his trust in God, he feared neither the force nor cunning of the Barbarians; yet that he hoped tha● persons of their worth and renown would not fail to come to the relie● of the Order at such a time of necessity as this. He added also, tha● notwithstanding the Siege, the Po●… should be always open to the Vessel● of the Christians.  
In the mean while, Misach Paleologus having well considered the situation and the outside of the Town, and being of Opinion with the Engineer, that all would follow the Tower of St. Nicholas, he caused his biggest Pieces to be planted where they had raised the first Battery; and in a small time they made above three hundred Shot. The Tower was shaken to the very Foundations, and battered in several places. The great Wall upon the West side fell almost all down, and falling, made a most dreadful noise; so that the noise and shouts of joy among the Barbarians, caused a terrible fear in the City; but they were soon encouraged by the Exhortations of Antony Fradin, of the Order of St. Francis, a man eloquent and Apostolic, who run up and down with a Crucifix in his hand performing the same good Offices at Rhodes, which John Capestran did at Bel●rade.  
The Tower could not stand, considering the condition to which the Ca●on had reduced it, and yet there was a necessity of preserving it, or hazarding the loss of all. Thereupon the Grand Master resolved to choose the Flower of the Knights and Soldiers to reinforce the Garrison. And having represented to them of what importance it was, not to abandon that post, he sent them thither under the command of Fabritius Caretta at Italian, conjuring them to remember that they had in their hands the Destiny of Rhodes. He also went thither in a Bark himself, to see what work the Cannons had made and finding that the ruins of th● Wall had made a kind of Bastio● round about the remaining part, s● that their Batteries could do no mo●… harm, he made an enclosure of grea● Beams mortaised one within another and nailed together, to strengthen th● compass of the Wall & the Dtich it sel● which was hollowed out of the Rock and seeing that some part of the Wa●… was fallen within the Fort, he caus● the Ruins to be carried away for th● conveniency of the Garrison. The● because the little Golph that wash● the West side of the Mole was sometimes so low that it might be waded, He set all hands at work to prevent the Infidels from making their approaches that way. To that end they laid Planks at the bottom of the Water all stuck with Iron Spiks; and then there was a good strong Guard placed upon the out Wall on that side of the City; in the Trenches also lay a stout squadron of French and Spanish Knights, to relieve the Garrison in the Tower, upon occasion.  
The Grand Master spent all the night a Horse back, and in Arms, stirring continually to keep his men in Breath. The Knights and Soldiers kept their Posts all night, without stirring, but still upon the watch, and ready to fight the Enemy. The Grand Master was also very careful to plant several pieces of Canon all along the Walls of the City that look●ed toward the Mole of the Tower, to sink the Turkish Galleys that should ●ide there to favour the assault, He also provided several fire Ships to burn the Enemy's Galleys while they made the attack. And in regard all was to be hazarded to save a post upon which depended the safety of the City, he put himself into the Tower, together with his Brother the Viscount of Monteile.  
All these Cautions were but little enough; for day no sooner appeared but the Turkish Galleys weighed from before Mount St. Stevens, and steered directly to the Tower with a fresh gale, with a loud noise of Trumpets and Drums. No sooner were they come near the Rocks of the Fort, but the Barbarians leapt a shore, and while the Galleys played from the Sea they ran to the assault, with a fury that looked more like desperateness, than courage. At the same time, they within discharged all their Cannon from the Walls upon the Galleys, and the Musketeers from the Mole gave the Infidels so smart a Volley, that they killed most of them upon the place▪ the rest more furious for the slaughter of the others, and reinforced with fresh supplies, in spite of all the shot from the City, fell boldly to the Scalado. They that defended the Tower, encouraged by the presence of the Grand Master, and the necessity of vanquishing or perishing, sustained the assault with a resolution that astonished the Assailants. Never was there perhaps an attack more obstinate, nor a more stout defence. The Turks that fought almost in the air, tumbled every foot from the top of the Rocks either dead or wounded, but their rooms were soon filled up; so that it seemed as if they had been still the same people, & that their blows took no effect. Alexis of Tarsus, one of the most valiant of the Turks, was careful to supply the assault with fresh men. He commanded that day in the place of the Bassa, who was detained sick in the Camp; and his undauntedness gave so much courage to the Turks, that they fought all wounded and bloody as they had been savage-beasts, enraged at the sight of their blood, and no way concerned at the fear of death.  
The Butcheries of the Barbarians rather redoubled then abated the courage of the Knights; who fought like men that had nothing to be good husbands of, but rather sought to kill, then to defend themselves. The Grand Master, who performed all the offices of a good Captain, and a private Soldier, had his head-piece stricken from his head with a stone. But in regard he was neither wounded nor stunned with the blow, he rook a Hat instead of a Helmet, and continued in the heat of the fight with his wont tranquillity; however, he was hit by several Arrows that pierced his Armour in several places.  
These accidents caused the Knights to be very solicitous for their Captain. And the Commander, Carretta, seeing many people fall about the Grand Master, besought him earnestly to retire. To whom the Grand Master smiling, replied, You have more to hope for, than I to fear. You will one day reap the fruit of my pains, added he, by a kind of Prophetical Spirit; as it were foretelling the Commander, that Heaven had desired him to be one day Grand Master of Rhodes.  
The Viscount of Monteil shared with his Brother in the travel, and the danger; The artificial Fires, and Canonshot that flew continually from the Town, and the perpetual showers of Musquet-bullets, Arrows, and Stones, wrought a most wonderful effect. On the other side, the Fireships set fire to several Galleys, and the Arillery of the Garrison so ill entreated the Galleys that defended themselves from the Fireships, that the enemies, after they had in a short time lost above seven hundred of theirs, were constrained to give way. Now, as it is usual to run from one extremity to another, and that nothing is weaker than a Plunatick, when the fit is over; these men, valiant even to sury, and who boasted to out brave death, betook themselves to their heels with so much haste, that the most part were drowned flying  
So soon as the Turkish Galleys were rejoined to the rest of the Fleet that lay before St. Steven's Mount, and that the Tower of St. Nicholas was in no more danger, the Grand Master entered the City, together with Knights, who had assisted him to drive out the enemy. All the people received him as their Preserver, with a thousand acclamations, and thronged after him to the Church of St. John Baptist, whither he went to return thanks to God for the Victory he had gained: not questioning but that so much happy success was an effect of divine protection.  
The vexation of the Bassa for the ill success of his first enterprise, did not take from him the hope of succeeding in a second. He was persuaded, that by attacking the City in the weakest part, he should easily repair the loss which he had sustained. To which purpose he caused eight great pieces of Cannon to be planted against the Jews Wall, and threw up several Brest-works for the security of the Infidels. He also lodged certain pieces of Cannon upon the point of land that enclosed one of the little Golphs; raising that battery to destroy the Mills that were built all along the Mole, and thunder down the Tower of the Port directly opposite to that point of land.  
The Grand Master slept not at all. He knew that the Jews Wall could not long resist the Turks Cannons, how thick or strong soever it were; and that the only way to save the place, was to entrench himself behind the Wall. For which reason he caused several houses to be pulled down, and a deep Moat to be made, large enough to put a stop to the Infidels, in case they should come to assault the Breaches they should make. He also built up behind the Moat a thick brickwall with a good Terrace of Earth to sustain it. They laboured night and day to perfect these works; and the Grand Master himself at the head of the Labourers, was as active as any of the rest, to carry Stones and Lime to advance the work by his presence. Rich and Poor, Men, Women, Maids and Religious people, forgetting condition or sex wrought as common Labourers; the very Children did what lay in their power, doing more than the weakness of their age seemed to permit; apparently incited by something supernatural to the defence of Religion, and their Country.  
These new Fortifications were hardly finished, when the Turks began their new Batteries. The Bullets that flew continually, and were of an extraordinary bigness, astonished the Engineers of the City, insomuch that the Germane Engineer confessed that he never saw any thing like them before. The Sea shore refounded with most dreadful roar of the Cannon, the noise whereof was heard above forty Leagues from the Island. But the effect was more terrible than the noise; for besides that those Guns caused a kind of Earthquake when they went off the Batteries beat down all the Wall, and made most dreadful breaches.  
Besides the Mortar pieces, which the Enemy had planted round the City, threw up into the Air Stones of a vast bigness, which falling upon the Tiles of the Houses, made their entrance in and killed all that stood in their way; and the horrible Ruin which they made caused a sad confusion in the City. The Inhabitants who could be no where safe, neither in their Houses nor in the Streets, bogan to cry out and mutter of surrendering; at what time the Grand Master bethought himself of an expedient which stifled the sedition in its infancy, and saved the lives of an infinite company of people. He ordered that the Women, Children, and persons that were of no use, should all retire into the space which was between the Houses and the Ramparts upon the West side, all which spase he covered with a most substantial roof, composed of good Rasters joined together, and able to resist the weight of much bigger Stones. The Turks who knew not that the Citizens had quitted their houses, directed their Engines against those placed which they thought most inhabited; so that at last those murderous showers took little effect. The Soldiers and the Knights received but little harm, whose Posts were like Bulworks; no more than from the Artillery which the Turks played from a rising ground that did but little command the City.  
The Bassa who thought to have reduced the City by the discharge of his great pieces, finding that the besieged spoke not a word of Capitulation, yet not willing to hazard the Assault, took a strange resolution to put an end to the Siege. He considered that the person of the Grand Master was the main obstacle that hindered his taking the Town, and that the Knights would never surrender, so long as they had such a valiant and expert Commander, so that he thought the best and safest way was to make sure of him. This design of his he communicated to two Renegadoes, who coming to the Turks Camp at the beginning of the Siege; had abjured the Christian faith, and made a show of much zeal for the Mahometan Sect. The one was a Dalmatian, the other of Albania. They had both of them acquaintance in Rhodes; and the Albanese, who was a crafty and intelligent person, was very well known to one of the Secretaries to the Grand Master, an Italian, whose name was Philelpho. The Renegadoes themselves immediately offered to do the business, either by stab or poison. Though the Execution were both difficult and dangerous; but a wicked man may do any thing when he fears nothing.  
At the time when the two Assassinates were preparing to leave the Camp, Aly Bassa arrived there from Constantinople. Mahomet, who began to be disturbed at the Siege, had sent him expressly to advertise Paleologus, that he would come himself with a reinforcement of a hundred thousand men, and fifteen hundred Cannon of a prodigious bigness. Whether the advice were true or false the Infidels received it as an Oracle which assured them of the victory. For the very name of Mahomet filled the Camp with joy, and inspired new heat into the Soldiers. This produced an effect quite contrary in the City. The Renegadoes who got into the City one after another, that they might not seem to have any acquaintance one with another, were received as persons ransomed out of Captivity; having given out that they unfortunately fell into the hands of the Barbarians in the second Sally. At their first admittance they reported, that Mahomet was coming with a formidable Army, and that all was lost, if they did not come to a Capitulation, before his arrival. Some of the Italian Knights who guarded the post on that side, and questionless were not the bravest of their Nation, were affrighted at the news. Some Spanish Knights also who took the Alarm upon the same noise joining with the Italians, caballed together, and had private Conferences in the night time, the result whereof was that since they could not save Rhodes, they should at least save the honour of the Rhodians, by, making an advantageous Composition. The Italians who were the Captains of the Cabal, discovered their design to Philelpho, in whom the Grand Master reposed a great trust; and after they had made him of their party, they engaged him to represent to the Grand Master, the necessity of yielding to save the Island from the utmost miseries of War.  
Philelphus was a person of Ho●onour and Sincerity, but one that loved his Nation, and had too great an esteem for his Countrymen, to think them guilty of any treachery. And therefore believing that the Italians meant well, and that acting with the Spaniards, they could not take any wrong or injurious courses, he not only under took to speak, but acquitted himself of his promise.  
So soon as the Grand Master understood by his Secretary what had passed, he sent for the most factious before him, and dissembling at first his indignation, he told them in somewhat bitter language, that if they so much feared Mahomet, they should do well to get out of the way: that he gave them free liberty to be gone: and that they should have Galleys for their convenience. But then again, changing his tone, with a sten countenance. But if you will stay with us, added he, never menti●… composition, and be assured, that if you continue your Cabals, I will hang ye up every Mothers Son.  
These words pronounced with so much authority, were like a thunder stroke to the guilty. They acknowledged their fault, and seemed so ashamed and sorry for it, that the Grand Master thought them severely enough punished; and thus mixing mildness with severity, and contented with their submissive penitence, he pardoned them upon the spot. But the Knights, whom the goodness o● the Grand Master had absolutely confounded, adjudging themselves u● worthy of pardon after so unworthy an action, besought him not to pardon their fault till they had washed it away with the blood of their enemies, and their own.  
All this while the two Traitors laid their plots, and sought all means to execute their design; the Albanoise, who knew that Philelphus, who was no more entrusted with the knowledge of affairs, since the Cabal of the Italians, failed not to insinuate to him, that he had now nothing more to hope for in Rhodes; that credit with great men once lost, was seldom regained. That usually they to whom they had imparted their secrets, became hateful when once suspected: that the hatred of those who could revenge themselves, unpunished, is always to be feared; and that the safest way, was, to suffer himself to be forestalled.  
There needed no more to a person so quick-witted as Philelpho, to di●ine what was aimed at: He had always looked upon the Albanese as a ●ellow of no Religion or conscience, ●nd this unexpected return did but augment the bad opinion which he ●ad conceived of him. For which reason, he made no question but that this wicked wretch had been gained by the Infidels, and that he was returned to Rhodes out of a design to do some mischief: However, the better to inform himself, he made semblance of giving ear to his arguments, and withal, hinted to him that he would be very ready to prevent his enemies, provided he might be well seconded. The Assassinate catching at this bait, frankly disclosed himself; he declared the whole business to Philelpho, and having showed him the Bassa's Letter to hasten the execution, he promised him as much as could tempt the ambition or interest of a man.  
How great a dread soever Philelpho had of so horrible a crime, he consented to it in outward appearance. But so soon as he had taken his leave of him, he went and gave the Grand Master an account of what he had understood. Immediately the Albanese was seized upon, who was already applauding himself for the success of his enterprise. He denied all at first with that boldness and confidence which is usual with Criminals. But soon after he confessed all, touched either with remorse of conscience, or forced by the violence of his torments. The Dalmatian, who was introduced into the Grand Master's Palace by another means, and who had already corrupted one o●…e Officers of his Kitchen, was at the same time apprehended upon the confession of the Albanese. They were both executed at a time, and by the people cut in pieces, in abomination of the crime. Thus the Conspiracy fell upon the head of the Conspirators, by a secret conduct of Divine Justice, which oftentimes makes use of the same means to destroy the guilty, which they take to ensnare the innocent. Philelpho was received into the favour of the Grand Master, and found by experience, that Fidelity contributes more than Treason, to the advancement of men.  
Paleologus understanding the ill success of his plot, laid aside all other thoughts, but of carrying by force what he could not win by treachery. To that purpose he began to raise a platform, upon that side where the besieged had made their intrenchments. But so soon as the Grand Master discovered what the Bassa intended, he commanded fifty men of the French and Italian Languages to fight the Labourers, and overturn the work in the nighttime. The ●…y commanded descended into the Moa● through the casemates so privately 〈◊〉 the night, and gained the upper-ground so privately with their ladders, that the Turks never perceived them till they were just upon them. Which put the Infidels into such disorder, that they presently fled; the most part saving themselves by flight▪ The mutinous Italians, who were of the number of the fifty, and sought nothing more than to repair their honour, were the most forward to pursue them that fled; of which they killed ten with their own hands, and returning, demolished the work, and nailed their Cannon.  
The Bassa was surprised at so resolute an action: and being informed that they were the French and Italians who had performed it, he could not forbear saying, that he had to do with people that inherited the courage of Caesar and Charlemagne. So much does true valour charm even enemies themselves, how barbarous soever.  
The Grand Master did not think it enough to applaud the Victors, but gave them rewards: And to testify to the Italians, that he had no more ill thoughts of them; he expressed himself publicly, that they were persons of Honour, and had kept their word.  
The bad success which the Turks had upon this encounter, made them give over all thoughts of attacking the City upon the Italian Post: And therefore they resumed their old design, and bend all their force against the Tower of St. Nicholas. Not only because that being almost ruin'd they thought it might be the more easily taken, but because they imagine that there lay the decision of the Victory.  
To that effect, the General of the Barbarians undertook to build a Woodd'n-Bridg that would hold six men a breast, which should reach from the Church of St. Antony to the foot of the Tower. They wrought without ceasing in the presence of the Bassa, who assisted at the work himself. So soon as the Bridge was finished, a Turk having in the night secretly fastened an Anchor to the Rock of the Tower itself with a chain of Iron, thrust a Cable through the ring of the Anchor, to which the end of the Bridge was linked; so, by drawing the Cable by strength of arm, the Bridge, by degrees, might be haled to the very point of the Mole of St. Nicholas.  
But the cunning of the Turks could not deceive the vigilance of the Rhodians. An English Marener, whose name was Roger, a bold and daring fellow, who discovered what had passed, threw himself into the Sea, when the Turk was retired; and when he had cunningly unfastened the Anchor, he left the chain upon the Rock, as if it had still held: for which, the Grand Master immediately gave him two hundred Crowns in Gold. When the Turks began to draw the Cable, to move the Bridge forward, they soon perceived that their stratagem was discovered, and that the Rhodians were more subtle than they, though they were not altogether disheartened. For Paleologus, who managed the enterprise himself, and had a wit fertile for invention, sent for a great number of Barks to bear the Bridge upon the water, and to transport it insensibly to the Mole, as the Barks moved forwards. In the mean time he ordered, as well to attaque the Tower, as batter the Vessels that lay in the Port, thirty Galleys, besides several light Vessels, wherein he had put the choicest men in his Army, and who were to begin the assault, while the Soldiers landed.  
The Grand Master omitted nothing that lay in his power. He set a thousand Pioners at work, who laboured day and night in cutting the Rock, to make the Moat wider, and deeper. After he had reinforced the Garrison with such Forces as the Escalle had brought from Verona at the beginning of the Siege, he posted at the foot of the Mole a Squadron of Spanish and Germane Knights, to be succoured from thence as occasion required. But as he had reason to suspect lest one part of the enemy should attack the City, while the other assaulted St. Nicholas' Fort, and that the Jews Wall would be the place, where their Cannon had already made several breaches; he sent thither a good number of Soldiers under the Conduct of the Knights de Northolon, with order not to sally without express command. After that he prescribed to every one his particular duty in the Fort, yet doing nothing without mature deliberation and counsel. For he heard advice with calmness, and a quick apprehension, being persuaded that the most judicious do not see every thing, and that the wisest often mistake, when too much wedded to their own judgement.  
That courtesy and affability which he showed to all the World, allowed not only to the Knights, but also to the meanest Soldiers the liberty of speaking their thoughts upon all occasions that presented themselves. He took delight to hear them, and sometimes he found in the discourse of a simple Soldier such expedients and stratagems which perhaps he might not have thought of. Yet with all this lenity he was severe enough, when it behoved him so to be. For two Soldiers of the Garrison of the Fort, having resolved to run away to the Turks, threw a great quantity of Arms and Ammunition into the Sea. They were taken in the act, and ashamed of themselves when they were discovered. They also craved pardon of the Grand Master, and threw themselves at his feet, very penitent for what they had done. But notwithstanding all their prayers and entreaties, and all their penitence, he caused them to be hanged out at the windows of the Tower, and their bodies to be cast into the Sea.  
The enemy was so much perplexed that he had attacked the Tower in the open day, that he resolved not to attack it any more but by night. They also made their approaches very silently, contrary to their customs. But having gained the Mole, and being landed, they presently, opened their throats. The choice party of the Turks assailed the Tower where it was most ruined, making a most hideous noise, which was followed with the sound of Trumpets and other Warlike Instruments.  
The Christians, who were all upon their Guards, and expected their enemies with an undaunted resolution, vigorously sustained the Shock. They fought on both sides with an equal ardour, without any other light, then that of the Granado's and Fire-pots, that flew continually from side to side; so that there was a great slaughter in a short time.  
In the mean time the Galleys being come up close to the Rock, and the Wooden bridge being fixed to the point of the Rock, by the assistance of the Barks, a multitude almost innumerable of the Turks gave the assault on that sight where the Gross of the Wall was fallen down. The discharges that were made so thick upon them, broke their first effort, and threw headlong a good number of them that were already got up. The rest were repulsed by the Knights that defended that part; and there it was to be seen, how sometimes valour might prevail against number. The Grand Master who was every where, encouraged the Knights, and confidently assured them of victory provided they themselves would but do their best to overcome.  
While the heat of the Combat increased, the Batteries which the Grand Master had planted against the bridge, took that effect as was expected. For the Bridge was cut in pieces at the same time when a reinforcement of Soldiers was upon it; who all perished miserably, being neither to be relieved by the Barks, nor able to save themselves by swimming, under a Shower of Stones and Arrows that followed the discharges of the Artillery.  
The Enemy's Galleys ceased not to batter the Tower of St. Nicholas, and to tyre the Knights. But they resumed new vigour when they perceived that the Bridge was broken, and that the Assailents could no longer be that way relieved, and that which more increased their resolution was, that the Artillery of the Tower had sunk four Galleys with several Ships of War; and that the Fireships sent against the rest, had dismayed and disordered the whole Fleet.  
This However did not hinder the Infidels from being obsti●…e in their assault; for despair sometimes instead of abating, raises courage. Both sides fell on again without remorse, and the Combat which had already dilasted three hours, began again with more violence the ever. The day which soon after appeared did but serve to irretate the Combatants, while it discovered the Massacre in the Night. The sight of so many Bodies stretched upon the Earth, or ●lo●ing upon the Sea, with the ruins of the Bridge and Galleys incited the Infidels to repair their Honour, and the Christians to maintain their advantages. Both sides performed as much as men of Bravery could act upon such occasions; the loss was great upon the Turks side, and their most considerable Commanders lay ●ead upon the place; among the rest, Mahomet's Son-in-law, a young Prince, very valiant and very dear to the Grand Signior. He stood a long time firm upon the ruins of the Tower, and killed several Knights with his own hand, fortifying himself with heaps of dead bodies. But having received several wounds, he fell as he was making a blow with his Scimitar, and expired in a moment after. The death of Ibrahim allayed the heat of the Barbarians; they gave ground, manger▪ all the resolution of their Geneneral, who exhorted them to revenge the death of the Grand Signior, and with his own hand killed some of those that recoiled. But the Knight's repells, and forced them at length to retire. This dishonourable retreat put Paleologus into a profound fit of sadness. When he was returned to his Camp, he shut himself up, and there kept himself three whole days together without giving audience to any person; either to conceal his grief, or to meditate at leisure what farther course to take.  
Now in regard the Turks had lost above two thousand five hundred men in these assaults; because the dead bodies, which either covered the Earth, or else were washed upon the Shoat by the Sea, were enough to corrupt the Air, the Grand Master caused all the shore to be cleansed, with a particular care of his own Soldiers. And after he had caused the Bodies to be interred with all the honour that the present state of affairs would permit. He himself looked after the dressing of the Wounded; he visited them every foot, and distributed among them with his own hands the rich spoils of the slain. And indeed the lying still of the Enemy, while their General locked himself up, gave the Grand Master leisure to attend these particular duties of a Great Commander.  
At length the Bassa appeared abroad, and forgetting in some measure the dishonour which had occasioned his recess, he resumed his usual heat and fury. However he laid aside all thoughts of attempting any thing upon St. Nicholas Tower, which now he began to think impregnable, bending his whole, design to reduce the City, by dividing the Forces of the besieged, believing he should accomplish his work, by assailing it in several quarters at once. He persuaded himself, that when the Walls should be ruined in other places, as they were in the Jews quarter, and the Italian Post, that by a general assault, he should not fail to enter the place, and that the besieged would be constrained to surrender, when they were no longer able to resist. Moreover he made no question, but that the Germane Engineer, upon whom he still depended, would at length find a way to serve him, wherein lay the chiefest of his hopes.  
Thereupon by his order, the best Pieces of Artillery were planted round about the City; and while they thundered upon the Walls, the Turks, animated by the presence of their General, on the one side set themselves to undermine their way through the Earth, to make themselves Trenches covered with Planks and Bavins to bring their men securely into the Moat. Then they raised Plat-forms, supported with Hurdles and Boughs of Trees and pallisadoed round, upon which they planted Culverins an other small shot equal with the Walls and Bastions of the City, which fire without ceasing.  
But in regard they designed to giv● the assault principally upon the Jews Wall, where the Batteries had do●… most mischief, after they got into t●… Moat by such passages as they ha● mined under ground, they end●…vour'd, by means of the noise a●… smoke which hindered the besiege from hearing or seeing them, to 〈◊〉 up the Moat with the Rubbish which the Cannon had loosened from the Wall, which being thrown together by hazard, made a kind of a slope ascent. In this they laboured with so much vigour and success, that notwithstanding all the firing from the City, that in a short time the Moat was filled up almost as high as the Ravelin or Bastion of the Jews, so that they might easily get up to the Wall.  
The Grand Master, who husbanded his men against the Assult, finding fat the principal Batteries of the City did little good, and that the Enemies advanced every day without receiving any great damage, caused an extraordinary Engine to play, which was made to cast Stones of great weight at a great distance, which Engine was called the Tribute, because it was made in the time that Mahomet demanded a Tribute from the Knights. This Engine placed just opposite to the Turks place of working wrought wonderful effects. For the huge pieces of Marble which it threw with an unspeakable violence, not only cruished to pieces the Workmen upon the Terraces, but in several places broke into their Mines, and their covered Trenches so that an infinite number of Turks were stifled in the Earth, and buried in the Ruins of their own works.  
The Rhodians shouted every time the Engine played, and when they saw the Stones fly, they cried, that was Mahomet's Tribute. The Grand Master took the cheerfulness of his Soldiers, for a good Omen. And though he were not a little troubled at the last advance of the Enemy, yet by his familiarity with the Soldiery, he engaged them to cleanse the Moat which the Turk had filled up, and to mine a way under the Walls to get in, that they might not expose themselves to the Shot of the Enemy.  
The Soldiers in that good humour cheerfully obeyed the Grand Master; they mined a hole into the Moat, and by degrees drew in all the Stones into the City, together with the other Rubbish that had filled u● the Moat; the Grand Master bein● present all this while to encourage th● Labourers. And finding that pa●… of the Jews Walls where the Enemy's Cannon had played hottest, was ready to fall, he terraced it with all speed, and raised a new Wall to support the Earth which was not well settled.  
To this part the Grand Master ordered great Fats of Flint Stones, and old pieces of Iron, Sacks of Sulphur, and Powder, Caldrons of boiling Oil, and whatever was proper to stop the fury of the Turks when they gave the assault. But besides all this, he was desirous to know of the Germane Engineer, what other Invention he could think of to repel the Enemy, or what new work was to be raised should they force the Defences which were already raised. The Germane seemed surprised to hear himself asked so many questions, and coldly answered, that he would consider of it, and that for the security of the place, it was requisite he should make use of all the Secrets of his Art. But as he was already suspected, and for that a Battery which he had already raised in the presence of the Grand Master, had taken no effect, suspicions began to arise that he did not act Cordially. But that which more increased those mistrusts was, that, the Turks used several designs to discredit him in the City. They shot in Arrows with Letters fixed to them, wherein they wrote that the Germane Engineer was a person not to be trusted▪ that he was a Villain, full of ill designs, believing that the h●…red which they testified against him would make him the more credited by the Rhodians.  
The Grand Master not questioning but that the advice was as true, as the intention of the Turks was that it should be accounted false, delivered him up to the hands of Justice. At length, as conscience often urgeth Criminals to speak against themselves, he confessed all; he declared that he came not into Rhodes, but to endeavour how he might deliver the Town up to the Infidels; that he came, by the express order of Mahomet, to observe the condition and estate of the City, and to return to him with a full account thereof, i● case the Turkish Army should be forced to raise the Siege: He added, that this had not been the first City which he had betrayed in this manner, and that his conscience accused him for the murder of an infinite number of Christians. These confessions were enough for his condemnation, without any other evidence, so that he was hanged in the public Marketplace of the City. This execution was soon spread in the Camp of the Turks; for the Grand Master informed them himself by Arrows shot over the Wall, after their example. Which he did, the rather to let them understand how ill success their Spies had at Rhodes, and that he had followed the Turks advice.  
It is not to be believed how extremely the Bassa was afflicted for the death of this Traitor. He had almost no other hopes left but in him since his last misforture; for he was half assured, that the intrigues of a wit so crafty as his, could not fail him at last. However, he would not suffer himself to be altogether disheartened, though before he resolved upon a general assault, he was resolved to try the most gentle means he could.  
To this purpose after he had shot in several Letters into the City, aggravating, and extolling the power of the Ottoman Empire; he advertized the people, that the Grand Signior intended no ill to the Rhodians; that he had only made the War to deliver them from an unjust and tyrannical Government; that being Greeks, they ought naturally to obey the Emperor of the Rhodians, and that they would never be at quiet so long as they continued enemies to the Ottoman Court. He promised them, if they would surrender, not only their lives and liberties, but also all sorts of Immunities and Honours. At length he declared to them, that if they refused such advantageous proffers, they must expect to be all put to the Sword. That the Invincible Mahomet was resolved to drain his Empire of all its Forces, to take Rhodes; that he was marching thither with all speed; and that there would be no capitulations thought of when his Highness arrived.  
This Letter wrought no impression upon their resolutions. The wiser sort laughed at them; the meanest capacities took them only for pieces of craft and falsity. They all contemned and scorned the change which he proposed; and so far they were from dreaming of a submission to the Grand Signior, that they made new protestations of fidelity to the Grand Master: So that nothing more contributed to retain the Prince in their obedience, and to redouble their affection to their lawful Prince, than the subtlety which was used to corrupt and gain them to a revolt.  
The Bassa finding no effect of his Letters, to which they would not so much as vouchsafe an answer, took another way to obtain an answer. A runagate Greek presented himself that night, by his order, before the Walls of the City; and calling to the Sentinels with a loud voice, he told the Knights that appeared, that the General of the Ottoman Army was desirous to send an Ambassador to the Ottoman Army, provided he might have the liberty to go and come with safety. Answer was returned to the Renegado, that the law of Nations was inviolably observed at Rhodes; that the Ambassadors had no reason to fear any thing, and that he might come to the Jews Moat; and that he should find in the Bulwark of the Tower, a knight, that should return him an answer in the name of the Grand Master.  
An ancient Bey, whose name was Solyman, appeared the next morning just against the Bulwark. He was a prudent man, and besides his experience, had excellent natural parts. After he had civilly saluted the Knight, who was deputed by the Grand Master to give him audience he began to tell him, that the Bassa Paleologus, wondered, that being so much straitened, and not receiving any relief, they should still so obstinately defend themselves. He added, that for his part, he wondered that persons so wise as they, should so pertinaciously seek their own ruin. The they ought to remember Constantinople, Trebisond, Negropont, Metelin, and others, far stronger places than Rhodes, which could not hold out against Mahomet; that Prudence ought to regulate Valour: and that it was a folly to pretend to resist the Conqueror of two Empires, twelve Kingdoms, and three hundred Cities. True it was, that it was an honour for him to defend his Country; but that it was better for him to preserve it entire, by submitting to the stranger, then to ruin himself out of a blind and unadvised ingenuity; and therefore it was but common prudence for him to agree with Mahomet: That his Favourite, Misach Paleologus, offered to manage the accommodation himself, and so to order it, that they should have no reason to complain; and lastly, that it was the only means to save their Reputation and Estates. He concluded his Harang in a lively and persuasive manner, conjuring him to have pity upon the people, and not to be the causes of the massacre of so many poor creatures, the dishonour of their Daughters and Wives, and the succage of the whole Island.  
The Grand Master being informed of Solyman's propositions, did no less wonder at the Bassa's Ambassador then the Bassa wondered at their resistance. That they could not apprehend that he had any compassion or tenderness for them, which he endeavoured to destroy by all means imaginable. That Peace was not treated on with sword and poison; and that the treasons discovered, made them suspicious of new ones: That they very well remembered that Trebisond, Constantinople, Negropont, and so many other Towns, could not resist the power of Mahomet; but they remembered as well, that he was a Conqueror that feldom kept his word; and that contrary to the public Faith given, he had put to death David Commenius, with all his children, not to speak of the Princes or Bosnia and Metelin.  
The Knight, who spoke in the name of the Grand Master, added haughtily, that the Sultan of Egypt and Babylon, no less potent than the Emperor of the Turks, had often attempted Rhodes, without getting any thing but shame; that the Rhodians hoped that their entrenchments would prove the tombs of the Ottoman Army; and that they would rater perish in the ruins of their own Country then, then deliver it up to the enemies of the Christian Faith. And lastly, that neither the threats nor promises of Mahomet were sufficient to force them to any thing which might either be against their profession, or blast their honour. After this, the Knight added, that when the Army of the Infidels was returned to Constantinople, the Emperor might send an Ambassador to Rhodes, and that then the Grand Master would consider what was most honourable and advantageous for the Order; but that so long as such an Army remained about the City, he could not maimed about the City, he could not hearken to Peace. That the Ottoman Trroops might do like declared Enemies, but that for his part, he hoped by the assistance of Heaven to let his General know that the Knights of Rhodes were not so soon conquered as other Nations.  
This generous and haughty answer quite disappointed all the Bassa's designs. Shame, Honour, Despair, Fury raised in his Soul those Opposite motions, as almost put him besides himself. Fury at length got the upper hand, and the Barbarian abandoning himself to all the thoughts that rage could inspire, after he had excited his Soldiers to punish the pride of those that braved the sovereign power of the Ottomans, he commanded all the Engines to be set at work, and that they should batter the City night and day without ceasing. Never were orders better executed; for the Turks enlivened by the fury of the Bassa, and transported at the same time with a desire of Victory and revenge, in a small time made above three thousand five hundred Shot, which brought the Powers and Walls almost down to the Ground. Yet neither did this affright the Rhodians. For the Grand Master went up and down to hearten the Inhabitants and encourage the Soldiers. His confidence in God increased his natural Constancy, and spread in his Countenance a serene Air, which proved a happy success.  
When he thought the Enemy was ready to give the assault, he placed at the most dangerous place, strong Squadrons of Cavalry, under the most Skilful Commanders which he chose himself. He retained near his own person, the French Gentlemen who had followed the Count of Monteil to Rhodes; and placed himself with them near the Jews quarter; from whence he might relieve all parts as need required. But because he reposed all his hopes in the protection of Heaven, he first went and prostrated himself at the feet of the Altars recommending to God the safety of Rhodes, and commanding prayers to be continually said in all the Churches of the City.  
In the mean time the Bassa encouraged by the Havoc which his Artillery had made, after he had flattered his men with their Martial virtue, and had persuaded them that they had nothing more now to take then Ruins without defence, he openly declared to them that they should freely have the pillage of the Town. He commanded them to put all to the Sword, except the young Infants, whom he permitted them to preserve either for their own benefit, or the Grand Signiors Militia. He ordained also that all the men that should escape the Sword of the Mussel men, should be impaled, to which purpose he set upright a thousand Stakes in the Field.  
The Turks revived anew by this apparent facility of the enterprise, and the hope of plunder, with impatience expected the hour of assault with their Arms in their hands, and Chains about their wastes, to bind those that they should not kill. Nor could the Bassa hardly retain them one day more, that he shot continually at the Town to levelly the Fortifications of the Besieged.  
At length the 27 th' of July, he give the signal just at break of day, by the shooting of a Mortar piece. Immediately the Ottoman Army ran furiously on, invoking the name of their false Prophet, and assailed the City on every side with most dreadful shouts and yells, that made all the Seashore, and all the Hills to ring again. Nevertheless the main onset was given to the Jews Wall, where the Ruins, which had filled up the Ditch again, made the way easy. Then an innumerable multitude mounted the Walls, and fell on with that fury, that the Christians who kept the Walls, were quite overlaid with number, and almost all slain. The Turks puffed up with this success, drove back the rest, and set up seven of their colours upon the walls, before the Christians could get up upon a slope, made with the Ruins of the Wall on their side. The Knights and Soldiers that first ascended fell upon the Turks with such a ●uty that they forced them to retire. But the Turks being presently reinforced, both parties disputed a long time for the Wall; they on both sides with great heat and courage But when the Combat grew hot, and that the victory seemed to incline to the Infidels, the Count of Monteil came into the assistance of the Christians; but notwithstanding all the effects of their valour, they could not drive back their Enemies, whom the presence of the Bassa made undaunted, and not being able to withstand so great a number as fallen upon them.  
In the mean time the report wi●… was spread that the Enemy had carried the Jews Quarter, struck terr●… and confusion every where. But 〈◊〉 soon as the Grand Master saw th●… beginning of a Rout, with a half pik● in his hand, he mounted the Wal● having already killed some that we●… got down, and considering that th● loss of all depended upon this po●… he resolved to hazard all, or regain 〈◊〉 The old Commanders and your Knights that were near to his people mounted after; at what time t●… Grand Master breaking into a thi●… Battalion of the Turks, with an astonishing fury, charged them so rudely, that they were soon cleared off.  
No sooner was it known to what danger the Grand Master had exposed himself, but the Burgesses of the Town ran with all speed to disengage him, or to die with him. The Women also who were for the most part habited in men's apparel, appeared upon the Ramparts to terrify the Assailants, followed their husbands, and pouring down scalding Oil, Flints, and old Iron upon the Turks; while others were so hardy as to throw Wild fire, and others to take up the Arms of the Slain, and fight in their steads they did very good service. On the other side the Archers which the Grand Master had placed in such parts of the Wall which the Cannon had a little spared; shot continually upon those that came with fresh recruits.  
The Barbarians fell in great heaps every where, yet dearly selling their lives, but more especially making a great slaughter about the Grand Master. But the present Image of death redoubled his zeal, and no way diminished his valour. Let us die, my dear Brethren, said he, rather than retire, 'tis for the faith, 'tis for heaven that we fight, our death shall be honoured among men, and precious in the sight of God. His example, and his words, so encouraged the Soldiers, that manger the obstinate resistance of the enemy, they regained the Field, and made themselves absolute Masters of it, after a dispute of two hours. The Knight de Montholon, being the first that tore up the Ottoman Banners, and fling them to the ground.  
As much affrighted as the Barbarians seemed, and as much wearied as they were indeed, shame or honour caused them to return to the Charge; and the Bassa drew out a Body of old Janissaries to second the assault. Now, in regard the Grand Master was known by his gilded Arms, and the throng of remarkable persons that environed him; the Bassa commanded that they should pick him out particularly. These fresh men threw themselves, like beasts of prey, upon the Christians; & having forced their, way through the Pikes and Swords, were making directly to the Grand Master, if the Viscount of Monteil, who saw them coming, had not put a stop to them; who flew upon them with the most valiant of the Auvernian Post: In the mean time ten or twelve of the boldest of the Turks joining with those that were at handy-strokes with the Grant Master, they laid at him with several blows; so that his arms being broken, he received five wounds: however, he fought still very valiantly. But the Knights perceiving he was wounded, fell on so furiously, that the enemy first began to give ground; and lastly, to betake them to their heels.  
As for the Turks who were got upon the Posts of the other Languages, where they found equal resistance; so soon as they saw the Jews Wall forsaken, they quitted their attaques, and fled in the greatest disorder in the World: except three hundred of the stoutest, who stayed upon the Walls, and being no longer able to defend themselves, fell half dead into the City, where they were massacred by the people.  
At the same time the Rhodians issued out after them in throngs, and pursued them to their very Camp, making a most fatal slaughter among them. The Turks also killed one another to make room for themselves: so much they dreaded to fall into the hands of the Christians. The Bassa did all he could by threats and promises to stay their flight: their fear would not let them take notice of either, and he was at length constrained to fly to the shore, that he might be near his Galleys.  
Khodgia Afendy, who has wrote in the Turkish Language the Siege of Rhodes, attributes the rout of the Infidels to the avarice of their General: For he says, that the Soldiers, more covetous of booty than blood, being ready to enter the Town, and preparing themselves to plunder, where they hoped to find great riches; the Bassa, to preserve the whole for himself, caused proclamation to be made, that the treasure of Rhodes was the demeans of the Ottoman Court, and that the generous Mussulmen were to seek nothing more in fight then the honour of serving the Emperor; however, he would not fail to recompense those that should do their duty, as he would punish those that should take the least rag. The Historian adds, that this Proclamation so cooled the courage of the Soldiers, that they thought of nothing after that, but how to save their lives. But we may easily conjecture, by the examination of his words, that he does not speak truth according to the manner of the Turks, who make no scruple of lying, when it is either to excuse and cover the cowardice, or dishonour of their Nation. For it has been the custom of the Ottoman Emperors, and their Bassa's, always to abandon such Towns as were taken by assult to the plunder of the Soldiers: So that it is not likely that Paleologus, who used all the means he could, to make himself Master of the place; and who was naturally magnificent, should of a sudden take to a course so contrary to his design and humour.  
In the mean time the Grand Master, who felt himself very much weakened by his wounds, returned into the City all bloody; after whom followed the victorious Knights with the Imperial Standard, which they had taken from before the Pavilion of the Bassa: but the condition of their Prince put them into such a consternation, that they could not rejoice for their Victory. One of his wounds was accounted mortal, and the second day they began to despair of his life.  
So soon as the Bassa had recovered the Seashore with the remains of his Army, he never stood to consult whether he should raise the Siege or no▪ Whatever confidence he had had till then, in the fortune of Mahomet and his own, he despaired to take the place after so many vain assults; and understanding that he had lost above nine thousand men slain outright, and above fifteen thousand wounded, which were not in the fight; he took care of nothing more than how to save the rest by retiring.  
While the Turks were embarquing their Engines of War, and all their Baggage, there appeared two great Ships, which Ferdinand, King of Spain, had sent to the relief of Rhodes. Paleologus, who saw them making to the Port with full sail, considering what a shame it would be to let them enter the Port, shot at them with such pieces of Artillery, as were not embarked; not being able to assault them with his Galleys, because the winds were contrary. The shot brought one of the Masts of one of the Ships by the board, but did the other no harm. But the wind changing, and the Sea growing rough of a sudden, they both came to an Anchor just against the Port, till the tempest forced them to make all the sail they could to get in. The Ship, whose Mast was broken, was the more fortunate, and steered so well, that she got in. The other being carried off by storm, fell back into the road; so that she was the next day very near the Infidels Fleet. The Bassa, unwilling to let go a prize that he thought in his hands, sent out twenty Galleys to seize her; and commanded the Captain of the Galleys to go himself. The Christians prepare themselves for fight. The twenty Galleys surround the Vessel, and thunder upon her on every side; and by an incredible kindness of divine protection, did them much more mischief than she received herself. However, some that were best manned fetched her up by the strength of their oars; and having grappled her, a whole throng of Barbarians endeavoured to enter upon all her quarters. But the Spaniards and Italians kept their ground with so much resolution, that after a bloody Fight of three hours, the Turks were constrained to give way: and the death of the General of the Galleys so abated their courage, that they wholly forsook the Vessel.  
Then it was, that Misach Paleologus, being out of all hope, and fearing all the worst of fortune, gave order to weigh Anchor, and be gone. And that which hasted his departure, was, that he understood by his Spies, that the Christians expected a very considerable relief, and that the Vessels of Ferdinand were but the forerunners of the Christian Prince's Fleet. So that the Ottoman Fleet put out to Sea the 18 th' of August, and steered toward the Port of Fisco; where having set the Army ashore, they continued their course toward Constantinople.  
The Victorious Ship entered the Port of Rhodes almost at the same that the Ottoman Fleet set sail. And now it is no difficult thing to apprehend the joy of the Rhodians, to see themselves so well delivered, after a siege of sixty days. The whole Port resounded with shouts of gladness: and the noise of the Bells, mixed with that of the Trumpets, made a pleasing harmony, which proclaimed the raising of the Siege to all the people of the Island. But that which most contributes to the public rejoicing, was, that the Grand Master began to recover; whether the Surgeons were deceived in their judgements, or that the wound, which they deemed to be mortal, were not so indeed; or whether there were something divine and miraculous in the cure. However, in that languishing estate, wherein as yet he continued, he commanded solemn Processions to be made for three days; and that Masses should be said in all the Churches of the City, for the souls of the Knights and Soldiers that had been slain during the Siege.  
So soon as he was cured of his wounds, and that he had strength enough to walk, he went himself to return thanks to God at the feet of the Altars, And because he was persuaded that the protection of the Virgin had saved Rhodes, he made a Vow to build a magnificent Church, by the name of St. Mary's of the Victory, near the Jews Wall, where the Turks were put to the rout. Nor did he delay the execution of his vows; for being somewhat better settled in his health, he caused himself to be carried to the place, and ordered the foundations to be laid in his presence. They laboured might and main at this great work, so soon as the fortifications of the Town were repaired. And because the Victory was won upon the day wherein the Greeks solemnize the Festival of St. Pantaleon, the Grand Master built a sumptuous Chapel for the exercise of the Grecian Ceremonies, in honour of that holy Martyr; to the end that the Latins and the Greeks, celebrating at the same time the holy Mysteries, they might return thanks both together, in both Churches, for so renowned a Victoty.  
Nor was his devotion enclosed within the Walls of Rhodes. He founded a perpetual Mass every week at the great Altar of St. John of Jerusalem; to preserve until the end of time, the memory of so happy a success, and in some measure to make an immortal acknowledgement thereof, in the same place where the Order of St. John had its first Institution.  
But because, that having implored the aid of St. John Baptist, when he sallied to the Combat, he found in his Soldiers, and in himself, a new courage, which could not spring but from above; he resolved to build a Church in Italy, in Honour of the happy Precursor, whose body Julian the Apostate caused to be burnt, and whose precious ashes, lie in the Cathedral Church of St. Laurence at Genoa.  
This Structure time brought to perfection; and it was built near to the Chapel, where those holy Relics are exposed to the veneration of the people. To which, that he might do the greater Honour, he also built a Convent near to the said Chapel, for twelve religious persons of the Order, to sing Divine Service, to say Masses for the propagation of the Faith, for the Benefactors of the Order, and the Souls of the Grand Masters deceased: to which end he employed the Revenue of several Commanderies, and his own, according to the power which he had received from the See of Rome.  
He wrote at the same time to the Princes of Christendom, to give them advice of the Victory, and to engage them to send him relief, in case the Turks should make any new attempts, and that the Knights should be constrained to hold out another Siege. But because that Ferdinand's Ships had brought him a Brief from Sixtus, which Brief contained such expressions, as testified how much the Pope did interest himself in the affairs of Rhodes, he sent to Rome the Prior of Capua, and the Commander of Aliaga, with the Title of Ambassadors Extraordinary. He charged them also in their way, to wait upon the King of Naples, and to tell him how much the Knights were obliged to him for his aid. That in his own particular, he highly acknowledged his Favour; and as long as he lived, should seek all occasions to testify his gratitude. Nor was the Grand Master thus contented to declare his obligations to Ferdinand; he also gave substantial marks of it to Lewis Palafox, a Gentleman of Arragon, and Captain of the Ship, which had so valiantly defended the Tower of St. Nicholas, and the Jews Wall. For besides that, he presented him with a Diamond of a very great price; and made his natural Son a Knight, as being a young Gentleman of great hopes and merit. He permitted him to carry in chief, above the Arms of his Family, the Arms of the Order, as an authentic proof of the Services which he and his had done, during the Siege.  
He also granted other considerable Favours both to the Knights and Soldiers, which had most signalised themselves: And because the Country was utterly laid waist; and for that the miseries of the people were not ended with the War, he caused Corn to be distributed to the Isladers in great plenty; and discharged them for several years of all sorts of Taxes.   

THE HISTORY OF Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of RHODES.  
Book Fourth.  
THE Ottoman Fleet carried the news of their own misfortune home themselves to Constantinople. And Mahomet was as deeply sensible of this misfortune, as a wise and ambitious Prince possibly could be, who had not prospered in an honourable Enterprise, which he undertook not but upon great consideration. Though he were a great Master of himself, and one that could dissemble his particular anguish of mind; yet upon the sight of the principal Captains of the Army, and in that transportment, he was about to have put them all to death. The Bassa, Misach Paleogo, his favourite, presumed to tell him with that freedom which his favour allowed him, that they had nothing to accuse him either for his conduct or his courage; and that the Mussul-men had done as much as men could do. He was glad to tell him withal, that the Knights of Rhodes were men of an extraordinary valour; and that there appeared in the Air a bright shining Troop, whose blows neither the Turks could shun, nor abide their looks. But all these reasons gave the Grand Signior no satisfaction. He drove his Favourite out of his sight, and was so far from giving him the Vest of Honour, which he was wont to bestow upon his Generals and Viziers, at their returns from military Expeditions, that he commanded him to retire to the Sangiacatship of Gallipolt. Nor indeed had Mahomet any other way to cheer up himself for this misfortune, but by believing that the conquest of Rhodes was reserved to him alone, and that it belonged only to him to tame the Knights, and their Grand Master.  
They were soon informed at Rhodes of the preparations which were made at Constantinople for a new Expedition; nor was the Grand Master idle in preparing to receive them.  
But while the Rhodians were repairing the defences of their City, there happened extraordinary accidents which changed the whole course of their proceed. A little while after the Fleet of the Turks was departed, there was heard over the whole Isle a kind of subterraneal noise, like to that of thunder that gins to grumble in a cloud. This was a prognostication of those Earthquakes with which the Island was terrified for many months. The most firm foundations of the City were shaken by the first shogs, and almost overturned by the second shake, which happened one after another; and which many times did not give over, but only to begin again with greater force.  
The half of the Fort of St. Nicholas tumbled down one night, and the ruins of the Tower overwhelmed most part of the Soldiers in the Tower. As the exhalation that caused these motions grew to be more and more enraged by the attempts which it made to get lose out of the caverns wherein it was enclosed, the Earthquake increased every day. The Earth reared itself up, and violently bounded▪ forward in some places; it cloven and opened in others. Nothing but ruin and abysses appeared every where; nothing was heard but the cries of affrighted people, that run up and down to save themselves, and yet no where sound security. In short, it seemed that the Island of Rhodes, which some believed was produced our of the Sea, to make the Earth tremble; was now just ready to perish by the same accident for which it was created.  
To add to their affliction, these tremble of the Earth were accompanied with such prodigious and impetuous showers of rain, as if a second deluge had been come to overflow the World. Besides all this, the Sea swelled ten foot high; and having surpassed its bounds, overrun the C●ty with such an impetuosity and noise, as if it came to swallow it up. The Rhodians believed themselves lost, when they beheld how the very Elements conspired their ruin, at a time as they were threatened again with the whole force of the Turks. Nay, the Grand Master himself would have had much ado perhaps to have sustained himself with his natural constancy, had not his confidence in God fortified him against so many calamities. Upon this Christian confidence it was, that he was often heard to say, like Moses and David. The God of Battle is our fortress; when I walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear none ill; because, thou Lord, art with me.  
He exhorted all the people to take heart, but all his exhortations signified little; for the people sensible of what they felt, abandoned themselves to those impressions which such sort of calamities produce. And that which increased the public consternation, was, that about that time Mahomet was set out of Constantinople at the head of three hundred thousand men, resolved to conquer Italy or Egypt, so soon as he had conquered Rhodes. He crossed the Thracian Bosphorus, and took his way for Bythinia; with a design to cross all Asia the less, and to come to the Port of Lycia before the Knights should know of his march. But Heaven is pleased sometimes at one blow to bring down the pride of the Grandees of the Earth. This proud Prince, who thought upon nothing but new conquests, was taken away by a violent Colic in the midst of his Army, near to Nicomedia. He was three and fifty years old; so vigorous, that he endured all the travels and labours of War without any detriment to his health; the anguish that perplexed him for raising the Siege of Rhodes did not a little contribute to his death. He always appeared melancholy after that misfortune; and upon the very naming the word Grand Master, he fell into such dull fits as made him insupportable to himself. William Caoursin, who lived at that time, and was Vicechancellor of Rhodes, makes him to die after a very strange manner. For he reports in his memoirs, that Mahomet passing through a Forest of Bythinia, a young Man clad in white, of a shape something more than Human, presented himself before him, with a visage burning with anger, and a flaming Sword in his hand, who after he had beheld him with a fiery and menacing eye, Most impious among men, said he, I will run thee thorough with this Sword. At which words Mahomet fell trembling from his Horse, as if he had been struck with a Thunderbolt. That at the same time he suffered most bitter torments, which caused him to cry out most dreadfully, and that soon after he died, blaspheming the name of Jesus, and cursing the Rhodians. Whether the Apparition were true or no, certain it is, that this Enemy of the Cross died the same day that the Church celebrates the festival of the finding the Holy Cross, and that as he was expiring, he several times uttered the word Rhodes, and commanded in the extremity of his pangs, that this Inscription should be written over his Tomb. My design was to have taken Rhodes and subdued Italy.  
The death of the Ottoman Emperor was the safety of Christendom, and particularly of the Rhodian Territories. So that when the Grand Master heard the news, he gave thanks in public to Heaven, that the Order was delivered from so powerful an adversary.  
But that which more increased the joy of the Knights was this, that the City of Otrantum was retaken from the Turks in Puglia, so soon as the death of Mahomet was known Achmat Bassa, one of the greatest men of the Empire, had made himself Master of this City the year before; and had left a strong Garrison therein, and settled it in a condition not to be assaulted. The taking of Otrantum made all Italy shake. And the vigorous holding out of the Turks against the Neapolitans that besieged it, began to make Rome sensible of her danger; but when the besieged understood the death of the Grand Signior, their courages failed them, and they surrendered to the Duke of Calabria, Son to the King of Naples, not staying for the succour of five and twenty thousand men which Achmat was bringing himself. These Tidings were acceptable to the Church; and than it was that the Rhodians began to take breath after such a series of misfortunes. The Earth grew steady, and the Sea retired, so that they had the liberty to repair all the ruins of the City. But as the corruption of manners usually proceeds from the disorders of War, the Grand Master undertook a reformation of the Knights and people. To that end he made severe Laws against those vices that wound Christian Piety, and civil society, upon which account he forbade all manner of unlawful Games. These Laws were publicly proclaimed, and what was thought almost incredible, as readily obeyed; but a Sovereign finds no great trouble to make his Subjects obey him when he commands nothing but what he practices himself.  
While all things were calm at Rhodes; the two parties that strove to succeed in the Ottoman Empire, put all Turkey into a confusion. Mahomet at his death left two Sons behind him, Bajazet and Zizim, for Mustapha their elder brother was put to death by the command of his Father, That young Sultan, who who was both stout and valiant, and had not long before won a very signal victory from Vssum Cassan King of Persia, coming to the Ottoman Court about the particular affairs of his government of Amasia, fell so deeply in love with the wife of Achmat, that famous Bassa that took Otrantum, that one day in the height of his passion, he offered her violence as she was going into the Bath. Achmat complained to Mahomet, and tore his Turban and his Vest, to express his grief. What is that you complain of, haughtily answered the Grand Signior to the Bassa, My Son has done nothing but abused the Wife of one of my Slaves. However to give Achmat satisfaction, he gave immediate order that Mustapha should be strangled, at the same time acting the part of a cruel Father and a just King.  
Thus Bajazet and Zizim remained the only Heirs of the Crown. The first governed Paphlagonia, and resided not far from the Black Sea. The Second had the Government of Liconia, in Asia the less, so that they were both at a great distance from their father when he died. They had ever been kept a sunder the one from the other, and had never seen one another but once, out of a piece of policy of Mahomet, for fear least jealousy should divide themselves, or a strict amity unite them both against him. They were of a different Character, and dispositions resembling in nothing but the passion which they had to reign. Bajazet, to whom the Turks gave the name of Lightning or Thunder, by no means made his Title good, as being of a spirit altogether poor and mean, and one that minded nothing less than War. Zizim, whose name signifies love, on the contrary had a lively Wit, a noble Soul, and was most generously inclined. He was not so handsome as Bajazet; but there appeared in his Person, and in his Countenance, such a mixture of Grandeur, sweetness, and haughtiness mixed together, that surpassed beauty itself. He delighted extremely in hunting, and all Military exercises. And yet he had no less a love for learning than he had for Arms. He understood Languages, among the rest the Greek and Italian; he spent some part of his time in reading of Histories; and he was then writing the Story of his Father's Life, when the news came to him of his death. He was very zealous for the Mahometan Religion, yet not with that headstrong passion, but that he had a great kindness for the Knights of Rhodes, whom his Father mortally hated, Besides all that, he had a particular affection for the Grand Master, from the very time that the first overtures of peace were made, and he had always a design to make as strict a league with him as the law of the Musselmen would permit. And indeed there is such a coherence between the Story of the Grand Master and Zizim, that I cannot forbear to relate what happneed to the two Brothers, before the Knights did interest themselves altogether in the quarrel.  
So soon as Bajazet and Zizim understood of the death of the Emperor. They both of them minded nothing else but how to get into possession of the Empire. But before they took the Field, the partakers of each side at Constantinople, had taken Arms, and declared some for the One, and some for the Other. The heads of each party made out the best they could the right of both Princes. They that took Bajazet's part, cried out that nature spoke in his behalf, for that being the eldest, he could not in justice be deprived of the Crown. The Friends of Zizim pretended that a lazy slothful Prince as Bajazet, that gave not his mind to business, but led a dissolute life, did not deserve to succeed to the great Mahomet. They maintained that Zizim, being endowed from Heaven with all the qualities that made a Prince worthy of an Empire, aught to be preferred in the succession to his Father. And as to the right of Eldership they added, that Bajazet indeed was born before Zizim; but that for that very reason he had no right to the Imperial Crown. For, said they, the first is only the Son of Bajazet, the other is the Son of the Emperor. Bajazet was born while Amurath lived, and before Bajazet bore the Sceptre. But Zizim came into the World, when his Father was in possession of all the Turkish dominions; and after he had conquered the Empire of the Greeks; so that it might be truly said, that this young Prince was born upon the Throne▪ and that Nature, as well as Fortune, had designed him for the Empire.  
Both parties thus heated, fell at length from disputes to blows, the people taking part according as they were seduced and inveagl'd by the Janissaries and Bassa's; insomuch that they plundered one part of the Palace, and the Imperial Treasure, and one of the Grandees of the Court was slain in a popular insurrection, wherein there was much blood spilt.  
While this was the condition of affairs at Constantinople, and that the two Princes were preparing to make good their claims by force of Arms, the Grand Master thought it very convenient to take the advantage of Mahomet's death, and of the division of the Princes, and to make an attempt upon the Island of Meteline. It was then one of the richest Islands in the Archipelago, and the most commodious for Knights, being seated directly against the mouth of the Strait of Gallipoli. The broils of Turkey made the enterprise easy. For there was no likelihood of any relief by Sea from the Infidels, when their Forces were all employed in a Domestic War. These considerations encouraged the Grand Master to make ready with all speed the Ships of the Order, and to spare for nothing that might procure the success of such an important design. The Commander de Jales, who at that time kept cruzing the Archipelago with two Galleys, had order to attend the Fleet. When it was ready, it set Sail under the Conduct of the Commander de Carmandin, Baily of Lango. But sickness happening in the Fleet, unseasonable weather, and contrary winds disappointed a design, the success whereof seemed to be infallible. But that which the Grand Master contrived to revenge himself upon the Sultan of Egypt, better succeeded. For that same treacherous Prince having no regard to the Peace, according to the custom and genius of the Mahometans, had sent certain Pirates to take the Vessels, and plunder the Ships belonging to the Order, as if open War had been declared. Thereupon the Grand Master ordered his Galleys to cruize along the coasts of Syria and Egypt, and to make all the havoc they could upon a faithless Barbarian. Which was so effectually performed, that Caerbei, the Sultan, soon repent him of his perjury.  
In the mean while Bajazet's party grew strong. For while the two Sultan's were upon their march to dispute for the Crown by force of Arms, Achmat, who returned to Constantinople when the Turks had forsaken Otrantum, and who was a person of great authority in the Empire, absolutely declared for Bajazet; whether it were that he was convinced of the justice of his cause, or that he hoped to have the Government in his own hands, under a weak Prince. As he was a man prudent and bold, equally skilled in Politics as War; after he had partly threatened, partly caressed the more factious sort, he appeased the Sedition by setting upon the Throne one of Bajazett's Sons, of about thirteen years of age, whose name was Sultan Corcut, and proclaiming Emperor the Father of the young Prince. Bajazett, who had already taken shipping, soon came to Constantinople by the black Sea. Achmat received him at the head of the Bassa's and Janissaries that he had gained, who having all of them saluted him Emperor, they conducted him to the Imperial Palace, surrounded with the shouts and acclamations of the people, who acknowledged him the lawful Heir of Mahomet.  
Zizim's Adherents were vexed to the very hearts to see his enemy upon the Throne; but the absolute power that Achmat had gained, forced them to dissemble their resentment, and to comply with the advancement of Bajazett. However, they held private Cabals together, and invited the young Sultan to make all the haste he could. Zizim, who had not the convenience of the Sea, but was to march through Bythinia, did not understand till he was upon the road, of the Coronation of his Brother. This unwelcome news did nothing abate the courage of the young Prince. He believed the people, whose inclinations are prone to change, and often contrary to themselves, would turn of his side, so soon as he should appear at Constantinople; and he believed it so much the more, because that Bajazet had been always less beloved than he. With these hopes he marched in all haste towards Prusia, the ancient residence of the Ottoman Emperors, and made himself Master of the City, with those few Troops which he had brought with him out of Lycaonia. This first success seemed to promise more. And therefore, that he might not be wanting to his own good fortune, he labours, by means of his friends, to draw to his party the Lords and Grandees of the Port; and to regain the affection of the Janissaries, got what Money he could together, and reinforced his Army from day to day.  
Bajazet, in whom desire of rule had augmented both his wit and his courage, spared for nothing on his side, to stop the progress of the Sultan his Brother. And fearing lest Zizim should make himself Master of all Asia, he sent Achmat against him with a numerous Army, and made up of the old Soldiers of the Army. The Bassa, who desired nothing more than to finish what he had begun, makes all possible haste, and encamps not far from Prusia, in a woody plain, resolved to carry the place, and to get the Prince into his power, who was the only obstacle to the repose of the new Emperor.  
Zizim, who had not time to fortify the City, and wanted provisions to hold out a Siege, rather chose to take the field, then to be shut up in a weak and unprovided place. Thereupon out he marches at the head of his Cavalry; and having discovered Achmat's Troops, which he did not think so nigh at hand, he resolved to give Battle immediately. Thus resolving to venture all for a Crown, he marches directly toward the enemy, telling his Soldiers that there was no other way but either to conquer, or die. Achmat stood him with a wonderful resolution; and after he had born the fury of the first shock, he charged him so rudely, that the asiatics were soon put to the rout. The most part of them were raw Soldiers, ill disciplined, effeminate, and more accustomed to repose and luxury, then to the noise of arms and labour. The Prince returned to the charge with some of the choice of his Army, but they perished almost all by his side, and he himself had either been slain, or taken, had not night come on. Thereupon, favoured by the darkness, he got into the next wood, hoping to rally his Troops, and to bring them on again the next day. But understanding that the most part of his people were either prisoners, or slain, he took a sudden resolution to fly for succour to the Sultan of Egypt, the King of Cilicia, and the Grand Master of Rhodes. To this purpose, with only forty Horse, marching day and night through unknown places, at length he got into Syria. Being come to Jerusalem, he went to visit the Temple of Solomon, to which the Mahometans give a particular veneration; and there prostrated at the foot of the Altar, he besought the Divine Majesty to favour his just designs; after which, continuing his journey through the Deserts of Arabia, he came to Cairo.  
Cairbey received Zizim, not as a Fugitive, and despoiled Prince, but as a great King, the Son of a most famous Conqueror, and of the most Puissant Emperor that ever the Turks had. When he understood that the Prince was at hand, he sent before the most considerable Emirs and Mamalukes of his Court. And at the same time he went to receive him at the Gate of his Palace, contrary to the custom of the Sultan's; nor were there any sort of honours or caresses with which he did not entertain him. Zizim, so much the better pleased with his entertainment, by how much the more he looked upon the lowness of his condition, made his returns to the civilities of the Chirurgeon, as showed his acknowledgement, but testified nothing of weakness, or want of courage. After he had declared to him the reason of his coming, he told him withal, that he applied himself to him, as to the most zealous observer of the Mahometan Law. He conjured him by the Temple of Solomon, and the Sepulchre of the Prophet Mahomet, which were both in his Dominions, to assist an unfortunate person with his counsels and his forces, against the violences of a barbarous Brother, who had deprived him of the Crown, and also sought to take away his life. The Sultan, moved by the discourse of Zizim, made him all manner of offers. But as Cairbey was a Politic Prince, who would not easily engage in dangerous affairs, being rather a lover of quiet and repose, he promised him first to labour an accommodation with Bajazet; and to keep his word, he dispatched away an Emir to Constantinople. The Embassy was no way pleasing to Zizim, who well knew that such kind of differences were not to be determined but by force. But the posture of his affairs, and the consideration of his wife and children that came after him Cairo, enforced him to dissemble. And the better to conceal his passion, he desired to go to Mecca, to worship the Sepulchre of Mahomet, though perhaps more out of discontent than devotion.  
Hardly was the Ottoman Prince returned, but news came from Constantinople. Bajazet, who in all things followed the counsel of Achmat, accepted the mediation of Cairbey, not so much to reconcile himself with his Brother, as to amuse him, and ruin him, under the pretence of accommodation. The Sultan overjoyed to see himself the Arbitrator of so great a quarrel, went about to persuade Zizim that a part of the Empire was better than nothing; and upon that score he offered him for his share a Province in Asia. The Sultan was much displeased at his Proposition, and could not forbear from manifesting how high an injury it was to his pride. By this he found that mediation did but only make him lose time; and therefore not finding Cairbey very readily disposed to secure him, he resolved to implore the assistance of other Princes, at what time he received an Embassy from the Grand Caraman.  
This Monarch, whom Mahomet had despoiled of the Kingdom of Cilicia, now called Caramania, thought he had now a favourable opportunity to recover the Kingdoms which he had lost; and made no question but that by declaring himself against Bajazet, he should oblige Zizim, should he contribute to put him in possession of the Empire, to restore him his own. Upon this consideration he raised Forces, and requested succour from all his friends. The Grand Master, to whom he particularly addressed himself, sent him five Galleys laden with Soldiers and Artillery; who were readily willing to go, when the Counsel understood that it was done for the interest of Zizim, who had been always kind to the Knights, and the Vessels of the Order. In short, when Caraman had raised his Army, he sent for Sultan Zizim to come and join with him. The proposition of the King of Caramania was much more acceptable to the Prince, then that of the Sultan; but that which chief made him determine to leave Cairo, was, that several Bassa's ill satisfied with the new Government, had by particular expresses assured him of their fidelity and services. However, as much displeased as he was in himself with Cairbey, he would not break with a Prince from whom he had received so much kindness; and who was able to do him as much prejudice. So that as a mark of the confidence he reposed in him, he left his wife and children with him.  
The great desire which Zizim had to obtain the Crown, which, as he pretended, belonged to him, and of which he thought himself more worthy than Bajazet, made him hasten with all speed to Mount Taurus, where the Grand Caraman expected him; and the reason which that expelled King had to hate the Turks, made Zizim believe that he should find him an assured and faithful friend. After they had sworn to each other an inviolable Amity, the two Princes marched together over vast Plains, and encamped with their Forces near to Lavanda, a City of Cappadocia; Achmat, who had wintered in Lycaonia, near Iconium, advanced with his Army upon the first report of the Confederacy of Caraman and Zizim; on the other side also Bajazet, whom the desire of ruining his Brother, made more bold and valiant every day than other, set forth from Constantinople at the head of a hundred thousand men, and joined with Achmat, who had at least as many.  
Whatever resolutions the two Princes had taken, they began to be afraid of so great a force; and Caraman, who knew his Troops to be far weaker than those of the Turks, gave Zizim to understand that it would he but mere rashness to give Battle. He also endeavoured to persuade him that it was the part of prudence to retire. But the young Prince could not so resolve; either honour or despair caused him to make a proposal to Bajazet, that they might terminate their differences by a single combat in the sight of both Armies. Bajazet, who was not stout enough, and who was in too prosperous a condition to accept such a challenge, proposed to Zizim another way of accommodation, and offered him any such Province as he should like upon the Frontiers of Turkey, with two hundred thousand Crowns in Gold every year, and a Court becoming the Ottoman magnificence.  
Had those offers been as sincere, as they were made in craft, they would not have contented Zizims, whose ambition was not to be satisfied but with a Crown. He rejected them with disdain. But knowing that Achmat did but only seek to ensnare him, that he might get his person into his power, while he kept him in play with fair words, he at length was persuaded to retreat. The advice which he had of their close pursuit, advised him to save himself through Forests and Deserts in the most difficult straits of Mount Taurus. The Caraman followed him presently after with his Forces very much tired. Zizim had formerly secured himself in this place from the persecution of an enemy that was not his Brother; but judging well, that a Brother so unnatural as his would never be at rest, till he had established his Throne by the death of him that had the only right to pretend to it; after he had made several reflections upon the present, and the future, he resolved to seek the Alliance and protection of the Grand Master, whose generosity he was well acquainted with, and who was also a friend of the Grand Caraman. To that purpose he wrote to Rhodes by one of his most faithful servants; but that Messenger was taken by the Turks, who possessed all the passes of the Country, and carried to Bajazet, who put him immediately to death.  
When Zizim understood that, and that Achmat sought for him in all places, he left Mount Taurus, and took the way of Lycia toward the Sea with the Grand Caraman, who was himself his guide. Who, no sooner were they got clear of the straits of the Mountain, but their Troops who were posted there, and were preparing to follow them, were surrounded, and cut in pieces by Achmat. These new misfortunes put the young Prince upon sending to the Grand Master two prudent and faithful persons, the one of which was named Duan, and the other Solyman. And there happened to be at that time a Galiot of the Order, that carried the Embassdors of Zizim to Rhodes.  
Duan and Solyman fully informed the Grand Master of the adventures of their Prince. And afterwards they told him that it belonged to none but the most Illustrious Knights of the World to protect an oppressed Innocent; and that it was less an honour to humble the proud, then to assist the miserable. That Zizim required neither money nor men, being resolved to submit a while to his bad fortune; that he did not covet to rule, but only sought an Asylum, where he might live in safety and quiet. They added, that in his youth he had had a manifest affection for the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, and that he hoped that the Mahometan Law wherein he had been bred, would not hinder them from taking pity upon a young Prince exposed to the most cruel persecution that ever was. To conclude, they told him that nothing would render the Knights of Rhodes more formidable to Bajazett, than their having his Brother in their power; not more considerable either in Europe or in Asia, then to be Master of the Destiny of a Prince, who was Mahomet's Heir.  
These reasons were too sound not to move the Grand Master, who understood besides how profitable such an accident would be to all Christendom. It was therefore resolved in Council to entertain Zizim, and the grand Vessel of the Treasury was forthwith commanded together with a Galley, a Caravel, and other Vessels to go and fetch him. They also made ready at the same time a safe Conduct, after the same form which the Ambassador desired. The Grand Master made choice of Don Alvare of Zuinga, Prior of Castille, for so honourable a Command, and gave him his Orders how he should behave himself toward the Prince.  
Bajazett on the other side finding by a Letter intercepted, and by the advices which he had, that Zizim had bend his course toward the Coast of Lycia, to pass from thence by Sea to Rhodes, sent after him a body of Horse, with orders to take him dead or alive. Zizim, who had intelligence thereof, presently retired to the Sea side, where the great Caraman had prepared a Ship ready, in case the Prince should be pursued. The spahis however made so must haste, that they missed him but a moment; they appeared at the very time when he was but just got into the Bark; and he was no sooner put off from the shore, but taking a Bow in sight of his Brother's soldiers, he let fly an Arrow, to the point whereof was fastened a Letter, the Contents of which were as follow.  
King ZIZIM, To King Bajazett his cruel Brother.  
IF I commit a crime in flying for Refuge to the Christians, especially, to the Knights of Rhodes, the mortal enemies of our Illustrious Family, 'tis thou who art the only cause of it, both before God and Men. Thou art not only content to have deprived me of the Empire, contrary to all Laws, Divine and Humane; thou enforcest me to seek an ignominious sanctuary to save my life. Had Mahomet foreseen that thou wouldst one day have in such a manner disgraced the honour of the Name Mussulman, and the Ottoman Race, he would have been thy executioner himself. But I hope that Heaven will revenge me of thy Tyranny; and it is my prayer to our great Prophet, to hasten the punishment which thou deservest.  
When the Horsemen saw that the Bark was out of their reach, they returned, enraged that they had missed their prey, and carried the Letter to Bajazett. The Barbarian could not refrain from tears when he read it: And it is reported that he was seized with a terror when he had considered it, and fell into a deep fit of melancholy. So great a power have the conceptions of Nature and Religion, at certain times, upon minds, the most cruel and impious. In the mean time, Zizim, who had heard no tidings of his Ambassadors, not knowing what course to steer, nor were to land in safety, wandered at the mercy of the waves and winds along the Coast of Lycia, at what time he discovered certain Vessels, that with all the sail they could, seemed to make toward him. Now, as it is natural to the unfortunate to be afraid of every thing, the Prince imagined them to be either Pirates, or such as had a design upon his life, being in pursuit of him by his Brother's order, upon which he commanded the Pilot to gain the first landing-place: But the event proved to him that he had had a false alarm. For they whom he took for Pirates and Enemies, were the Ships of Rhodes that were sent to seek him out.  
When the Vessels were within sight of Lycia, Don Alvarez, according to his Instructions, sent Zizim's Ambassadors. and a Knight along with him to give notice of his Arrival. No sooner were they landed, but perceiving a Bark not far from the place where they went ashore, they found there Zizim himself, whom they thought to have been at the Court of the Grand Caraman. The Ambassadors gave him an account of the favourable Inclinations of the Grand Master, and the Knight told him that Don Alvare, a kinsman of the Kings of Castille, Captain General of the Armies of the Order, and the Grand Master's Lieutenant, was come on purpose to conduct him safely to Rhodes. The Prince, who found something that was very acceptable in so strange an Adventure, and who perhaps out of pride, would not at first confess his slight and his fear to an unknown person, smartly replied, that not questioning the generosity of the Grand Master, he thought it convenient rather to come and expect him upon the Coast, then to put him to the trouble of s●…rching after him. After which the Knight returning to the Brigantine, and coming up with the Vessels at Sea, Don Alvarez made to the Prince himself, to salute him in his own Galley. He presented him the Grand Masters safe conduct and Letter, and then carried him into the great Ship with a loud noise of Trumpets, and the Thunder of the Canon.  
The Prior of Castille was one of those Spaniards, who being rarely bred, perfectly understood the world, being no less polite than dextrous i● his behaviour; and therefore he failed not to pay Zizim all those respects and offices which were due to an unfortunate and afflicted Prince. For though ill fortune had not abated the courage of the young Sultan, it had however somewhat increased his natural melancholy. The Procedure of Don Alvare affected Zizim in such a manner, that he testified at first how sensible he was of his kind offices, and gentle services. Generous Knight, said he, in losing a Throne, I have not lost those thoughts which Nature bequeathes to the most barbarous. And if fortune do not altogether destiny me to misery, you shall find that I was not born ungrateful. But I see your generosity is altogether pure, and that in treating an Unfortunate so worthily, you only seek the honour of doing good. Yet I cannot wonder enough, added he, that so much civility should be shown to the Son of the most implacable enemy Your Order ever had, and I must confess, that therein I admire your ingenuity.  
Great Prince, Replied the Knight, Reason commands that we should give honour to persons of high birth, and real merit; whatever their condition be; and they are but mean souls, that rather follow the Fortunes, than the persons of Kings. You are forced to fly ill entreated by your subjects, and deprived of your Dominions, but you are still a King, you are still Sultan Zizim. We receive you as a Prince, whose virtue and misfortune render him worthy the esteem of Christians, and not as an enemy. Nor are you to wonder that the Grand Master entertains in this manner the Son of an Emperor, who mortally hated us. Mahomet your Father did all he could to ruin us: we have done all we could to withstand his triumphant Arms, and by the mercy of God we obtained a signal Victory against him, the remembrance of which After-Ages will preserve. The Knights of Rhodes know how to vanquish those that assail them; but they know how to relieve with humanity those that cast themselves into their Protection; nor are ●here any Injuries which they do not forget, when their enemies are no longer able to do them harm.  
The Answer of Don Alvares convinced Zizim of the generosity of the Knights, and entirely gained his confidence.  
The Grand Master had commanded that he should be treated like the Son of an Emperor and a King. To which purpose the Officers that first served him at his Table, made an Essay of the meat, according to the custom of the Courts of Europe. Zizim seemed to be surprised, because that Ceremony is not in fashion among the Turks: but it was told him it was the usual practice at the Tables of the European Princes, and that it was an Assurance against poison. Oh! said he. I am not afraid of being poisoned by such generous Knights as you; I have put my life and fortune into your hands, and I hold myself secure. Besides, I had rather you should treat me as a friend, than a Prince. Concluding those words, he took ●…mething out of every dish of which no Essay had been made, and putting all the meat into one plate, he began to eat, to let the Knights know how much he confided in them. After that he began to be more gay and pleasant, while the good entertainment that he received had almost made him forget his past misfortunes.  
Nevertheless, when the Ships were under sail, and that the Coasts of Lycia began to disappear, he then began to be apprehensive that nothing could be more worthy of composition than a fugitive and wand'ring King, driven to seek an Asylum in the territories of strangers, and of enemies. So that the sad thoughts which seized him all of a sudden, caused him to be profoundly sad for some hours; so that all his courage was but little enough to bring him to his former humour.  
For the mean while the Ship kept on their course, and they had so fortunate a passage, that they came in a small time within view of Rhodes. Don Alvarez sped before in a Brigantine, to give the Grand Master notice of the Prince's arrival. All things were already ordered for his Entry; and among the rest of the preparations, there was a bridge of wood, which reached from the gate of the Port, above ten paces into the Sea, to the very place where the Ship that carried Zizim was to lie.  
The most ancient Commanders which the Grand Master sent before to meet the Prince, received him with all the respect which was due to the Son of their Emperor Mahomet. So that while the Artillery played from all parts, he passed over the Bridge which was covered with cloth of Gold, in the midst of the Acclamations of the people, whom curiosity had drawn to the shore. From whence, after he had mounted a Spanish Courser, richly harnessed, he road forward to the Great Piazza, with the sound of fifes and Trumpets, conducted by Don Alvarez, who did him the Office of a Squire. The Streets were all strewed with herbs & flowers, and an infinite number of people filled the plat-forms and windows. Zizim, entering into the City, was smitten with the beauty which appeared there very rich in habit, as well to see as to be seen, and with a loud voice he spoke it, that it was not for nothing that the Rhodian women were accounted the fairest of all Asia.  
At the same time that the Ship which carried Zizim entered the Port, the Grand Master marched out of the Castle with a pompous train, and in very good order. He was attended by a troop of young Knights, very richly habited, and mounted upon horses of high price. The Officers of the Order followed them; every one wearing about their necks a Chain of Gold, going two and two, with countenances wherein there was both haughtiness and modesty mixed together. The Grand Master appeared at last, apparelled in Tissue of Gold, embroidered with precious stones, mounted upon a Neapolitan Steed, whose harness was all embroidered with Gold and Silver. The Squires and Pages that followed him, were no less remarkable for the splendour of their habits and furniture, then for their goodly presences, and dexterity in the management of their Horses. But there appeared an Air so noble, and something so majestic in the person of the Grand Master, that he was easily distinguished from the rest of the company. A great body of Horse closed up the Rear of the Retinue.  
The Grand Master stopped before the Church of St. Sebastian, and put his men in order in the Piaz, expecting the approach of the Sultan. So soon as Zizim perceived the Grand Master, who was showed him by Don Alvarez, though he were remarkable enough in many other respects, he saluted him according to the manner of the Turks, by putting his finger three times upon his mouth. The Grand Master on his part making a low obeisance, advanced toward him, and making a second bow, gave him a very civil compliment in Italian, which was answered by the Prince with a good grace, and in expressions full of good sense. After that they gave their hands each to other, and having repeated some few more words of friendship and kindness, they marched together to the French Lodgings, which were prepared for the Prince. The Grand Master, when they began to set forward, gave him the upper hand, but Zizim, making some reflections upon it, would not permit it at first. I am your Captive, said he, and it becomes not a Captive to take the place of honour. Sir, answered the Grand Master, Captives of your condition, preserve their dignity in all places, and I would to God you had as much power in Constantinople as you have in Rhodes.  
As to the rest, Zizim appeared neither merry nor sad, during the whole Calvacade. He carried the look of a person, who had the proof both at one time of good and bad fortune; or like one that believed himself worthy of the honours which were done him. He seemed however to be highly pleased with the behaviour of the Knights; and when he alighted from his Horse, he embraced the Grand Master with a very tender affection, calling him several times his Protector and Father. That day, and for some days following, they had several particular discourses upon the present condition of Affairs; but all that time abstained from particular conferences. However, there was nothing omitted for the divertisement of the young Sultan, so that there was nothing to be seen at Rhodes but Hunting matches, Running at the Ring, Shows, and magnificent Feasts. But all these divertisements did not complete the repose of the Prince's mind. For though he were not afraid of the Knights, he could not think himself in safety in a place full of Greeks, and so near the Turks; and what was more the proceed of the Port, daily increased his disquiet and his fears.  
At the beginning of those divisions which turmoiled the Ottoman Empire, after the death of Mahomet, Bajazett was afraid that it would not go well with his affairs, so long as he was not in friendship with the Grand Master, however he could not condescend to demand peace himself. There to save his reputation, he dealt in private with the Sub-Basha De Pizzona, who was come over to his Party, and was Governor of Lycia. The Sub-Basha sent an Ambassador to Rhodes, with instructions not to speak of Bajazett, but only to manage a truce between the people of Lycia and the Rhodians, believing that a Peace would easily follow a Truce. But the Embassy not having that success which was expected, Bajazett made use of Achmat to carry on his design. The Bassa, as jealous of the honour of the Sultan, as the Governor of Lycia, wrote, as from his Supreme a very yielding Letter to engage the Grand Master to an accommodation, and entrusted Lasim Brahim for his Agent with the Letter. The Grand Master thought himself obliged to hear the Propositions of Achmat, as well for the love of his people, who stood in need of rest after the toils of so long a war, as for the honour of the Order, to whom a Treaty could not be but advantageous, that mentioned nothing of Tribute.  
The Reception of Zizim, made Bajazet impatient of a conclusion of peace. Upon which Achmat urged it more and more by his Minister Lasim Brahim. He offered also that the Grand Signior should sign whatever the Knights desired, and for a pledge of his real intentions, he restored all the Vessels of the Order which had been taken since the Truce by the Pirates of Lycia.  
All these condescensions of the Port, so different from the Ottoman Haughtiness, more than ever alarmed Prince Zizim. He imagined with himself, that his Brother was not so desirous of peace, but only that he might have an occasion to destroy him; and that when Trade should be free between the Rhodians & Turks, he should be in daily fear of either being stabbed or poisoned: and that the runagate Greeks so accustomed to treachery and murder, would omit nothing to serve Bajazett to good purpose. In the midst of these thoughts he resolved to seek a Sanctuary elsewhere, to preserve himself from a violent death, to which purpose he opened his mind to the Grand Master, in whom he put an entire confidence. The Grand Master found that Zizim offered nothing but reason; yet because the affair was of great impotance, he resolved to have the advice of his Council, before he gave the Prince a positive answer. Among them, Opinions were different, while some affirmed that it was for the interest and honour of the Order to keep the Prince; that Bajazett durst not refuse the Knights any thing, or make any attempt upon them, while Zizim remained at Rhodes; that when he was out of their power, they could expect nothing but a cruel war, or a very disadvantageous peace. That by all the rules of prudence they were to lay hold upon so fair an occasion; or at least before the retreat of the Sultan, they were to make an honourable agreement with the Port. As for the safety of the Prince, they might easily secure it, by affording him a sufficient Guard, there being very few Assassinates that would atattempt the persons of great men, at the hazard of their own lives.  
The more disinterested, and the wiser sort were of a contrary judgement, that a removal was the only way to preserve Sultan Zizim from the misfortunes that threatened him: that war did no way secure him, that after a refusal of Peace with the Turks, they had no way to secure him from poison or assassination, while treason enters every where, and the fidelity of servants and guards is not proof against any large sum of money. That while Bajazet sought to get him into his power by all the ways imaginable, they could neither surrender him without betraying their faith given, nor keep him without drawing upon themselves the indignation of the Sultan.  
Zizim, who saw that his affairs would spin out too much time, unless he determined something speedily, and well enough understood the danger of delay, pressed the Grand Master to give him his liberty to be gone, and conjured him to permit him that he might go to the King of France, as being the person most capable to protect him against the Tyranny of his Brother. For besides that he guessed at the French Humour, by the behaviour of the Grand Master, he had heard frequent discourses of their generosity; nor did he question but that the successors of Clovis and Charlemaigne, whose famous deeds he had read, would take delight in restoring a Prince to his Throne.  
The Grand Master could not withstand neither the reasons, nor the powerful instances of Zizim. He approved his determination touching his retreat into France. But that which made him approve it the more, was that he thought that Zizim ran no hazard in a Country which produced no Monsters, and where poison was unknown. So that the safety of a poor Prince who had thrown himself into the Arms of the Knights, made the Grand Master in some measure forget his own Interests, and those of his people; for not troubling himself about the ill consequences that so hasty a Retreat might draw after it, he gave all orders necessary for the Voyage into France. He redoubled at the same time his civilties to the Sultan, and the eeve before his departure made him a most magnicent Feast. Zizim admired more than once the variety and dressing of the meat, and the order of the service, confessing that the magnificence of the Ottoman Emperors had nothing so sumptuous. During the feast there was a noble consort of music, and among the rest of the Musicians an English man, who sung rarely, and played upon a certain unusual Instrument composed of four Pipes joined together, charming all the company, except the Prince, whose ears were not accustomed to such sweet music. Whereupon the Grand Master who perceived it, and sat alone at the Table with him, sent for a Turkish Slave, whom he thought would better please him.  
This Slave, singing a Turkish Air, and playing upon I know not what sort of Instrument, making faces, and using ridiculous postures, delighted Zizim so well, that he caused him to laugh hearty. He eat plentifully and as strict as he was in the observation of his Law, he drank wine sometimes mixed with Aromatic juices, and sometimes neat without any composition. The Feast was in the Grand Master's Palace, where they sat upon two Chairs with a Table before them, after the fashion of Europe; but that posture was uneasy to the Sultan, who was wont to eat crosslegged, so that he cast his eyes up and down to see if no body observed his disturbanee.  
But after all these lesser observations, Zizim was extraordinarily satisfied with the marks of friendship which he received from the Grand Master during his stay at Rhodes; he returned him thanks several times; and as a testimony of his gratitude, he caused three Authentic Acts to be forthwith made ready, which he put into the Grand Master's hands. The first was an absolute power for him to conclude a Peace with the Port, as he should see good. The second was a kind of a Manifesto for the discharge of the Knights, by which the Prince declared that he had earnestly desired to go out of Rhodes, and to be conducted into France: which is alone enough to justify the Grand Master, whom some ill-meaning, or ill-informed people have blamed for letting the Prince go. The third Act was a perpetual confederation of the Prince with the Order, in case he should ever come to be restored to the Dominions and Territories of his Ancestors. This last Act is so much for the honour of the Grand Master, and so highly manifests the acknowledgement of Zizim, that I thought it might not be troublesome to the Reader to see it.  
Let all the world know that King Zizim, of the Race of the Ottomans, Son of the invincible Mahomet, King of Kings, and Sovereign Emperor of Greece and Asia, is infinitely beholding to the thrice generous, and thrice illustrious, the Lord Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of Rhodes. Let all the world also know that for the kind Offices he hath shown me in the most perilous adventures of my life, and to testify my acknowledgement as far as the present condition of my fortune will give me leave, I promise solemnly to God and our Great Prophet, that if I ever recover either absolutely or in part, the Imperial Crown of my Father, I promise, I say, and swear to hold a perpetual friendship, and inviolable peace with the Grand Master and his successors according to the Articles following.  
In the first place I engage myself, my children, and the children of my children to have an eternal kindness for the order of St. John of Jerusalem, so that neither I, nor my children shall do them any injury either by Sea or Land. That we will be so far from stopping the Vessels or disturbing the commerce of the Merchants of Rhodes, or of any other Lands appertaining to the Order, that our ports shall be free to them in all the Provinces under our obedience, as if they themselves were our subjects; or rather we will entertain them as our friends, permitting them to buy, sell, or transport what Merchandise they please, without paying any custom or duty.  
Besides this, I consent that the Grand Master shall every year take out of my Territories three hundred Christians of both sexes, and at what age he pleases, to put into the Islands of the order, or to do with them what he thinks best. And in some measure to make satisfaction for the expenses which the Grand Master has been at, and every day so liberally allows for my sake, I oblige myself to pay in ready money a hundred and fifty thousand Crowns in Gold. Lastly I promise upon oath to restore him all the Isles, all the Lands, and all the Fortresses which the Ottoman Emperors have taken from the order. And for a testimony that this is my will, I have signed with my hand, and sealed with my seal this present Act given at Rhodes in the palace of the French Apartment the fift of the month Regeb, the year of the Hegira, 887.  
The 31. Of August in the Year of grace, 1482.  
The third of September which was the day that the Prince took shipping, he was attended to the Sea with the same Pomp, and the same ceremony, with which he was received. He took his leave of the principal Knights, after a most obliging manner, wherein there appeared nothing of Barbarism. He also laid aside all his haughtiness, when he gave the Grand Master his last farewell: For it is reported that he threw himself at his feet, and kissed his hand with a profound respect. The Grand Master tenderly embraced him, and wept for some time over him either through compassion, or through some secret dictate that he should never see him again. The Knight de Blanchefort, who was returned to Rhodes since the raising of the siege, & the Knight de Rochechenard had order to conduct the Sultan into France, not to mention the Knights who were named to accompany him, and to serve him as a convoy; but they entered all together with Zizim into the great ship of the order, and set sail the same day with a favourable wind.  
The Grand Master, who had already given advice to the Pope of the arrival of the Ottoman Prince, gave him also notice of his departure by this opportunity, and sent him word in particular, that Zizim of his own accord had made choice of France for the security of his life: that he had good ground for his fears; in regard that for the forty days that he had stayed in Rhodes he was certainly informed that the Grand signior had used all his endeavours either to take or murder him.  
The departure of the Prince did not work that ill effect which some were afraid of. For though Bajazet was soon informed of what had passed, yet he desired peace with the same earnestness as before; because he always looked upon the Grand Master as the Arbiter of the Sultan his Brother's fortune. So that the Ambassadors that departed for Constantinople the next day after Prince Zizim was gone, were honourably received by the Grand Signior, and the peace had been presently concluded, had not the pride of Achmat put a stop to it.  
This Bassa, equally proud & cunning, who in his letters had given a blank paper to the Grand Master, could not endure that the first proporsition which the Ambassadors made should be that no mention should be made of Tribute. He broke forth upon that subject with a haughtiness, which made him almost forget the respect to the sacred Persons of the Ministers of Sovereign Princes. The Knight Guy de Mont Amaud, who was one of the Ambassadors, and who in his instructions had express order to bear up briskly against the Bassa, took him up short, and spoke to him with that sharpness, that had absolutely broke off the Negotiation, if Misach Paleologus, who was at the conference, had not allayed their passions. After the death of Mahomet he was returned to the port, and had gained the favour of Bajazet, by espousing his Interest. He, well acquainted with the humour of the Knights, and having proved to his cost, the constancy of the Grand Master, knew it was in vain for Achmat to contend so obstinately upon the point of tribute, and told him his reasons briefly, though in the Turkish language, that the Ambassadors might not understand him.  
The Knight Leonard Duprat, who was the other Ambassador, and understood Turkish, understanding the Bassa's discourse, and repeating it in French to the Knight de Mont Amaud, was the occasion, that both standing stiffly to their principles, Achmats' heat began to cool, so that of himself he began to give way to their demands. Bajazet promised not only to live in good amity with the Knights of Rhodes, but not to trouble the rest of the Christians. The Grand Master undertook for his part, to keep Zizim always in the power of the Knigths, and to endeavour all he could that the Sultan should not fall into the hands of any Prince either Christian or Infidel. Upon this the peace was concluded according to the Articles which the Ambassadors proposed; and it may be said that never was any Accommodation made with the Port, either more honourable or more profitable to Christendom. That which was most remarkable and extraordinary was that Bajazet engaged himself, either through weakness or Policy, to pay the Grand Master a kind of Tribute. To this purpose he sent to Rhodes Cagritaim, his principal favourite. and the two Knights bestirred themselves so well, that they carried him along with them upon their return. Cagritaim declared in full council, that the Port would pay to the order thirty five thousand Ducats, money of Venice, for the subsistence of Zizim, and besides that, the Grand Signior would pay every year to the Grand Master in particular ten thousand Ducats, to make him amends in some measure for the excessive charges he had been at in the last war.  
Achmat, who was the proudest person in the world, and one that mortally hated the Christians, especially the Grand Master and the Knights, could not brook this condesciention in the Grand Signior: He accused him of lowness of Spirit, and cowardice; he murmured in public, and made sharp scoffs upon it. Bajazet, who for some time before began to grow jealous of the Bassa, as of a person that did not love any thing more than war; and was therefore likely to take Zizims' part, took these murmuors and rebukes for the symptoms of a revolt: And believed that only the death of such a dangerous enemy could break his designs. True it is that he owed to him for the Crown; but usually great benefits are looked upon as crimes: & weak Princes often find their safety in the destruction of those that raised them, and are able to pull them down again.  
So soon as the peace was concluded between the Knights and the Turks, the Grand Signior put to death this famous Bassa at a Magnificent feast, where were all the grandees of the Port, and where Bajazet was present himself. The discourse of the table falling upon the Peace, and Zizim, Bajazet to provoke Achmat, and to engage him to speak something to be laid hold on, publicly declared that he would lessen the Soldiers pay, and deprive the Grandees of the port of their employments that were not loyal to their lawful Prince. The Bassa, who well understood that those words concerned him, presently took fire, and went so high in the heat of the debauchery, as to tell the Grand Signior that it was but an ill way to establish a throne to provoke the Soldiery; and that the Ottoman Monarchs' were not assured of their Empires, so long as they had Brothers alive. He had no ●o●ner spoke the words, but a mu●e instructed before gave him six stabs with a poignard. Others say that after the feast was over, Bajazet who loved wine, kept Achm●tt to drink with him alone, under pretence of friendship, and that seeing him half drunk he commanded two Eunuches to strangle him However, it were Cagrit●… succeeded at the Port in his place, though he had neither the merit nor experience; but he knew perfectly how to humour Bajazet, who only minded case.  
In the mean while, the Grand Master, who made little account of the friendship of the Infidels, of whose perfidiousness he had a thousand times experienced; and for that the person of Zizim seem very proper for him to make use of in case of a rapture, he applied himself wholly to make a league between the Christian Princes against the common enemy. He wrought several Letters to them, he sent them particular Agents to let them understand that there was never a fairer opportunity to ruin the Ottoman Empire, or at least to weaken it very much; that Zizim at the head of a crusade world do as much as many Armies together, that the death of Achmat had deprived the Turks of the most able Minister, and the most valiant Captain, that perhaps they ever had. That the Grand Caraman, and other Princes of Asia expected only when Europe would move, to declare themselves; and in short, that all the present conjunctures rendered that enterprise easy, which was so difficult of itself. But I know not by what fatality, if it were not rather the Incomprehensible disposal of providence, the Christian world, was not at all inclined to take advantage of the opportunity which Heaven itself seemed to put into their hands. All Italy was then divided. The King of Naples, the Duke of Milan, and the Florentines were in arms against the Pope and the common wealth of Venice. France was notess in trouble after the death of Lewis the 11 th'. The party of malcontents stirred up by the Duke of Orleans who pretended to the regency, and by the Count of Angoulism his cousin; had excited troubles over all the Kingdom. Besides the French desired quiet at home, only that they might be at leisure for the conquest Naples. And young Charles the 8th. Who naturally loved honour, made that the aim of all his ambition. The war of the Moors made work enough in Spain. And the bad correspondence which daily increased between the Emperor Frederick, and Mathias Corvin, King of Hungary prevented them from uniting together against the Turk, so that all the designs of the Grand Master vanished in smoke, and with all his zeal he had only the grief to effect nothing.  
But if the Christian Princes were not in a condition to make use of the person of Zizim for the common good of Christendom, they were no less disappointed in making advantage of him for their particular Interests. How importunate soever the most part of them were to have him, the Grand Master would never give his consent, and his orders were so well observed in that particular, that the order of St. John was always the Mistress of him. Zizim being arrived in France, the King received him but coldly, either because that France would by no means embroil themselves with the Port, just before the expedition against Naples, or else because they feared that an honourable reception was an engagement too high in the entertaining a Turkish Prince, so that he stayed but a very little while at Court, the Knights conducting him to the commander of Bourgneus, this was a place upon the confines of Poicton and March, pleasently situated where the Grand Pryers of Auvergne kept their Residence.  
The Knight Blanchefort, with whom the Grand Master had particularly entrusted the person of Zizim, took care that the Prince should not be presently displeased. He gave him all the honour that his birth deserved, and showed him all the sports and pastimes that the Country could afford. But notwithstanding all these civilities, the Knight Blanchefort omitted not to have an eye upon the Prince, and to keep a strong guard about him, to hinder those that sought for him from getting him into their hands either by cunning or force. But as the love of liberty is more natural to Princes then to other men, Zizim soon perceived that he was watched too narrowly. That reflection made him suspect the diligences of the Knights, and caused him to think ●hat he was rather kept as a prisoner then a Prince. He testified his displeasure at it, which caused those reports that ran about the world in prejudice of the Grand Master's ho●our. They gave out that it was a violation of the public faith to retain Zizim in prison against his will. That the Knights had sold his liberty to the Ottoman Port for forty thousand Ducats a year; and that it was therefore no wonder they had such a strict eye over him. That such a prisoner was a treasure for them, and that their insatiable avarice made them foget the more holy duties of civil society.  
They that thus discoursed either through jealousy, or else judging by outward appearances, did not consider that at a time when all Europe was in an uproar, there was nothing more to be done for the good of Christendom, nor for the safety of Zizim, than what the Grand Master did. And had they been well informed of all the snares that the Grand Signior laid for Zizim, they would then have changed their Opinion, and found that the Knights that so guarded him were the true defenders of his life, and of his liberty.  
Nor had Zizim reason to complain of the conduct of the Grand Master as well in reference to himself, as the Ottoman Port; for in desiring a safe conduct of him, he expessly declared that he intended to follow his counsel and orders in every thing, so that by the consent of Zizims' ambassadors the safe conduct was dispatched upon that condition, as the Grand Master observed in a Letter which he wrote to Pope sextus the 4th. Besides the Sultan had given the Grand Master a sufficient liberty to treat with the Grand Master as he pleased himself, and it was by virtue of that liberty that the Grand Master had concerned Zizim in the treaty of peace.  
As for the thirty thousand Ducats, certain it is, that the money was spent in maintenance of Zizim. By which the Grand Master was so far from getting any profit, that he made an addition to it out of his own revenue. Which may be easily thought to be true, considering with what royal magnificence the Ottoman Prince was always entertained, not to mention the infinite expenses of receiving and sending Ambassadors.  
But Zizim's discontent lasted not long. For the Knights made him soon to understand that the Guard that was upon him was against his Enemies, and not him. Thus being quitted of his suspicions, and persuaded more than ever of the friendship of the Grand Master, he complained no more but of his bad fortune that had reduced him to a country and solitary life.  
Now the peace between the order and the ●or having opened a freedom to trade, several Turkish Vessels came to Rhodes. And most of the Turks that Landed, were so taken with the beauty of the Rhodian women, that they spared for nothing to satisfy their desires. This glister of Gold grew such a temptation, that several of the Rhodians without regard to the Christian law, or their own, yielded themselves to the Mahometans. But the Grand Master abhorring such a shameful prostitution, and to stop the torrent of such a scandal, condemned the Christian women that were convicted of such a crime as lying with a Turk, a Moor, or a Jew, to be burnt alive, and he ordered the punishment to extend to the very procurers of that infamous familiarity.  
Some while after the Grand Master made a regulation upon Sultan Zizim's account. For considering how much it concerned the honour of the order, and the General Interest of Christendom, that his person should not be exposed to the Assassinates of Bajazet, he ordered that the Knight de Blanchefort should take as many Knights as he pleased for the Guard of Zizim commanding strictly those that were named to obey him without any more to do; declaring withal that such as should be bound to attend upon Zizim, should enjoy all the prerogatives of Residence, and precedency, as if they had stayed at Rhodes.   

THE HISTORY OF Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of RHODES  
Book Fifth.  
WHILST Zizim had a private and obscure life in France, one Bajazett almost unknown till then appeared in the world, resolved to take advantage of the divisions of the two Ottoman Brothers. He was their Uncle, being the Brother of Mahomet and Son of Amurath. After the loss of Constantinople, he was taken by the Christians in his Infant years, and carried to Rome in the Pontificat of Nicholas the fifth, who took care himself of his Education. The Instructions which he received were not altogether unpofitable: For he renounced the law of his falls Prophet and became a Christian. He applied himself afterwards to the study of humane Learning; and as he wanted not wit, he perfectly attained the Latin Language. But Nicholas the Fift being dead, he left Italy, to travel into Germany. There he was well received; and the Germans looked upon him as a person that might be useful to them in their Wars against the Turks. After he had stayed sometime in the Emperor frederick's Court, he went into Hungary, and there settled himself, not dreaming to raise his fortune any higher, for the example of the brave and virtuous Mathias made so little impression upon him, that he only minded his repose and pleasure in the Court altogether Warlike, and altogether Christian.  
But the Qua●r●… between B●jazet and Zizim which made such a noise over all Asia and Europe, awak'nd him out of that dream wherein he say, and roused his ambition by causing him to remember his birth. The flight of Zizim begat in him a desire to make war against Bajazet. He revolved in his mind, that having but one enemy to deal with, he might without fear dispute for the Empire, but at the same time he thought there was no way for him to compass his design but by the assistance of the Knights of Rhodes. And he had a belief that infallibly he should attain his ends, provided he could engage the Grand Master to his side. To this purpose he wrote-to him a long Letter in Latin. Wherein he first declared himself the only heir to the Ottoman Crown, as lawful Son of Amurath, pretending that Mahomet was but his bastard; then he spoke of his great feats of arms, like a true Knight errand; and because the Christian world might not be so well informed, he referred the Grand Master to the Turks for a clearer understanding of things. But the Turks knew him not so well as the Christians; for he was carried away so young from Constantinople, that it was impossible for him to have done any thing remarkable in Turkey. At last he highly extolled the services he could do for Christendom, and the information he could give the Grand Master touching several important secrets of affairs, advising him not to let slip so fair an opportunity, & earnestly desiring his speedy answer. The letter was written with his own hand; but as if he had the management of all the business in the world, he concluded that it was writ in ha●te.  
They were not convinced at Rhodes of Bajazett of Hungaries reasons. That Braggadochio stile wherewith he thought to win the assistance of the Knights, was in part the reason why they refused it him. On the other side, the Grand Master who had a tender love for Zizim, and was loath to embroil himself with the Port, took no care to listen to the Propositions of an Adventurer, of whom he had no knowledge, and to who he had no engagement; so that this new Actor soon returned to that obscurity wherein he had always lived, and which he so much the rather deserved. because he had sought too late to quit it.  
The Grand Signior took it the most kindly in the world, that he had behaved himself in that manner, and as a mark of his acknowledgement he began from that time to pay him the forty thousand Ducats which he had promised him. The first payment was made by Vssambei, one of the Principal Officers of the Port. He was sent expressly to Rhodes, with order nevertheless to go for France, under pretence to thank Charles the Eighth, for receiving Zizim into his Territories, but indeed to learn certain intelligence of his Brother. However, Bajazett fearing lest Vssambei should find some obstacle in his Embassy, conjured the Grand Master that he should give him letters of recommendation for France. But the Grand Master did not think it enough to write to the King. He was resolved that the Hospitalier of the Order should accompany the Turkish Ambassador, to be his Guide, and to introduce him into the Court. And indeed Vssambei was better received than Zizim had been; for the compliments of Bajazett highly pleased the French.  
In the mean time the war of Terrara raised many combustions in Italy, and was meditating to have brought the Infidels into Italy. For Hercules D'Este became so proud through the Alliance of Ferdinand King of Naples, who had given him his Daughter Elinor in Marriage, that he loftily scorned the friendship of the Venetians, which the Dukes his predecessors had always highly sought for. He came to that degree of contempt, that he usurped their Lands, abused their subjects, not considering the kindnesses which he had received from the Republic, when after the death of his elder Brother, the Son of his other Brother took up Arms to have deprived him of his Dominions. The Venetians could not brook the loftiness nor ingratitude of the Duke of Terrara. They raised puissant Armies against him, and leagued themselves again with the Pope, who was displeased with the King of Naples, both because that Prince had retained in his service about four hundred Turks of the Garrison of Otranto, and because he took little care in his Kingdom of the duties of the Holy See.  
Ferdinand sent Alphonso Duke o● Calabria to the succour of Hercules his Son-in-law, of whom the Commonwealth had got great advantages. Alphonso had already passed the Mark of Ancona, and was advancing with his forces toward the Terraras', when the Colonna's an● Cavelli, who were risen up again●… the Pope, invited him to join with them in the Compagna of Rome. ●…bert Malateste, who commanded th● Army of the Republic, was soon a his heels, gave him battle, and absolutely defeated him. Which Victory filled the Venetians full of hopes, and undertake, but while they ran●uck'd the Ferraresi, and were going to make themselves Masters of Fer●…ra, the Pope of a sudden abandons them, whether he were gained by the submissions of Ferdinand, or whether he were jealous of the Progress o● the Republic. However it were, Sixtus agrees with the Father and Son in Law; He also threatened the Venetians with the indignation and anathemas of the Church, if they continued the war of Ferrara.  
The Republic incensed at so strange a proceeding; and foreseeing that this change would cause a great disorder in affairs, implored the aid of the Turk to sustain themselves, and to revenge the injury done them. Bajazet who was unwilling to displease the Venetians, forgor that he had promised not to disturb the ●…ristians; or rather violated his word in that respect, and prepares a considerable Fleet to invade Italy. The news presently spread itself over all Europe. At Rome the alarm was taken, as if the enemy had been already at the Gates; and the Pope foreseeing the danger of the Church, if the Turks should enter Italy during the discords of the Christian Princes, and knew himself to be guilty of the discontent of the Republic, made it his whole business to divert the storm. The King of Naples, whom the danger more nearly concerned, followed the Pope's steps, and by common consent had recourse to the Grand Master, to whom they both wrote, and sent to him the Knight Carraffa.  
But never was Embassy more to less purpose; for the care of the Grand Master had prevented the requests of Ferdinand and the Pope. He understanding sooner than they the preparations that were made at Constantinople, and likewise knowing the private motives to that Engagement, laboured incessantly to divert the storm before it began to break forth. The Public good, and the particular Interest of the Church excited his diligence to keep the common enemy out of Italy: And his ●…igations to the King of Naples made him more Solicitous to omit nothing that might preserve the Kingdom of his Benefactor and friend from the invasion of the Barbarians. Therefore not to lose time, he dispatched away to the Grand Signior a Rhodian, whose name was Moscow ●…piano; a man 'tis true of low birth, but of an exalted genius, and capable of great affairs; and besides that, very proper to negotiate with the Turks, as being one who ●ad lived long in Turkey, and perfectly understood their humour and language. And this was he that treated with the Sub-Basha of Pizzona ●bout the truce, and first discovered ●he cunning of Achmats' Letters.  
Moscow, after he had made known ●o the Grand Signior, with whom ●e had a private audience, the Interest of his Highness to live in freind●…ip with the Grand Master gave ●im to understand by degrees, that ●…e Venetians were about to engage ●…m in a bad design. To that intent, ne represented to him that thi● great preparation was the ready wa● to bring upon him all the forces 〈◊〉 Europe. That the most divided 〈◊〉 the Christian Princes would not fa●… to reunite for the defence of the●… Religion and Crowns. That Fran●… who gloried in assisting the Po●e and the Holy See, would infallibl● join with Italy upon such an occasion and lay aside for a time their prete●…ces to Naples. That whatever ca●… the Knights could take, that the should not make use of the person Zizim against the Ottoman Emp●… it would not be any longer in the power to keep him. That the Ki●… of France would force him out 〈◊〉 their hands in spite of all the strength, and put him at the head an Army, and then nothing was mo●… to be feared then a Popular ri●… at Constantinople, which might ha●…pen to be attended with a total 〈◊〉 volution Moscow added accordi●… to his Instructions, that the Gra●… Master being of that account as 〈◊〉 was among the Christian Princes, and not possibly prevent his being ●…gag'd in the Quarrel, how great 〈◊〉 ●ver his desire might be to keep a ●…d Correspondence with the Court. 〈◊〉 if the preparations which the 〈◊〉 made against Italy should ●…ringe the accommodation which ●ad been made upon Zizim's score, 〈◊〉 had no reason to blame the ●nights, who are ready punctually ●o observe all the articles of the ●reaty. Moscow then gave the Grand ●…niour to understand that Rhodes ●…s not in a condition to fear him, ●he ruins being repaired, and new for●…cations daily added by the Grand Master.  
This discourse of the Rhodian ●…ok singular effect. Bajazet was ●o moved at it, that he stood a good while without making any answer, ●asting frightful looks here and there, ●hich showed the agitation and disturbance of his mind. At length ●…ows'd out of a deep contemplation, ●nd looking somewhat more calmly, he told Moscow, that in respect ●o the Grand Master, whom he honoured as his Father, he had abandoned the design which he had in hand. Then calling for Bassa Misach Paleologus, and two other of his Ministers, he declared that he would not send his Fleet into the Mediterranean Sea, and commanded them at the same time to surcease all their preparations for war wherein they laboured with an excessive earnestness. And that he might testify more of his friendship, and do him more honour, he wrote him a very obliging Letter, which he delivered to Moscow, the copy whereof follows.  
Bajazet King of Asia, Emperor of the Turks. To the thrice happy Prince. Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of RHODES.  
WE have understood from the mouth of your Ambassador, what it is you request at our hands. In truth you desire great things, and which are of extreme consequence to our Empire. For a considerable Fleet is not to be set forth without great expense; nor is such an enterprise to be quitted without some kind of disgrace. But however, as I refer myself wholly to your Counsel, and for that I can refuse you nothing, for your sake. I forget all my advantages. I surcease any further preparations, and engage to you upon my word, that my Navy shall not stir forth of the straits. of Gallipoly. I do this willingly, out of the desire I have, that you should always be my friend, as you ought to be, since that for your sake I renounce both my interest and my honour. From Constantinople the fifth of the month of Rabi el Evel in the year of the Hegira, 889.  
April 13. in the year of grace, 1484.  
Moscow returned to Rhodes almost at the same time that the Knight Caraffa arrived there. That new Ambassador of the Pope, and the King of of Naples was surprised to see that with all his haste he was come too late. So that finding his work done, he returned as he came, at least that he might be the first that should bring the tidings, carrying along with him to the Pope and King Ferdinand, the Copy of the Letter of the Grand Signior. A resolution so sudden, and so happy, extremely rejoiced all Italy, and the Pope was so satisfied with the Grand Master, that speaking of him to the Knight Quendal, Procurator of the Order at Rome, he called him several times, The Buckler of the Church, and The Preserver of Christendom.  
Nevertheless, the Christian Princes, whose Dominions were neighbouring upon the Turk, did not yet think themselves safe, fearing that Bajazet would not long keep his word. For that reason Mathias King of Hungary, Ferdinand King of Castille, Arragon and Sicily, made it all their most earnest suit to the Grand Master to have Zizim in their power. He would by no means grant them their request; but he promised them that so long as he had the Sultan at his disposition, he would keep the Grand Signior from enterprizing any thing upon their Dominions.  
Bajazet looked upon this Refusal for a signal piece of service, and thought himself so obliged to the Grand Master, that he resolved to make him a considerable present as a mark of his Gratitude. But not finding any thing of value enough to his mind amidst all the wealth of his Empire, he understood by some of his Renegado Confidents, that he could not make a more pleasing or acceptable present to the Grand Master, than the hand of St. John Baptist, which was then in his Father Mahomet's Treasury.  
The Grand Signior overjoyed at such a discovery, caused the hand to be immediately sent for, together with he shrine wherein it was kept, and causing it to be put into a Cypress box lined within with Crimson Velver, and set without with an infinite number of precious stones, he sent it by one of his favourites, called Cariaty Bey, with a Civil Letter, the Inscription whereof was thus.  
Bajazet King of Asia, and Emperor of the Turks, to the thrice wise, and thrice illustrious Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of Rhodes, thrice generous Prince, and Father of a most glorious Empire.  
This hand was said to be the right hand of John the Baptist, which was learned out upon this occasion, if the Vicechancellor Cacursin may be believed.  
It was an ancient Tradition confirmed by the Histories of the Greeks, that St. Luke the Evangelist having embraced the Christian Faith, the love which he had conceived for St. John Baptist, inspired him secretly to take up his body buried in the City of Sebastia, between Eli and Abdias. To this purpose he went thither with some of St. John's Disciples, who were then living; but considering that they should hardly be able to carry the body away without being known and stooped, he cut off the hand that baptised Christ, as the most noble part of the whole body, and carried it to Antioch, where he kept it all the while he stayed there. But going to preach in Bithynia, he left the Relic with some of his most trusty friends still at Antiochia, where it was publicly and adored for the space of three hundred years, till Julian the Apostate attempted to abolish the worship and memory of Martyrs, burning what remained of them. Particularly, he caused this hand to be thrown into the fire; but the piety of particular persons saved it from the fury of the Pagans at that time.  
In the time of Justinian the Emperor, to honour the Consecration of Santa Sophia, the head of St. John was by the Emperor's command fetched from Edessa, and the hand from Antioch; though he returned them again after the Consecration was over. But in the time of Constantine Porphyrogenites, an Emperor that was mighty devout, and had a huge fancy for this Relic, one Job, a Deacon of Antioch stole this hand to present to the Emperor, who put it in the Church of St. John, of the Stone, where it remained till the time of Mahomet the second, who remanded it into the Imperial Treasure with other Relics and rich shrines, out of which Bajazet took it to present to the Grand Master, who laid it up with great ceremony at Rhodes.  
These Marks of affection which the Ottoman Emperor showed to the Grand Master, opened the eyes of the Sultan of Egypt. That Barbarian had violated the Peace without any pretence, as we have said; and his perfidiousness carried him so far, as to stop the Rhodians, who trafficked under the public faith at Alexandria, and in other places of his Dominions. But now he began to alter his behaviour, when he saw the good correspondence which was between the Port and the Order of St. John. The fear he had, lest the Knights should take a fresh revenge, made him before hand in appeasing them. To that end he sent an Ambassador to Rhodes with rich presents, and a very civil Letter, wherein he blamed his past proceed, and accused the folly he had committed. Duan Aga, for that was the Embassadour's name, did the best he could to enhance the value of his Master's presents and excuses. He promised solemnly, an inviolable fidelity, and offered all sorts of Pledges for performance. formance. Whatever resentment the Grand Master had of the Injuries of Cairbei, he said nothing then: for thought he made little account of his promises, and judged of the future by what was past, he thought it not amiss to make his advantage of the present; and that which made him determine it the rather was, because he had intelligence, that Bajazet notwithstanding all his public and specious demonstrations of Amity, had an inveterate enmity against the Order, not only because it protected his Brother Zizim, but also because he had obliged him to quit his design upon Italy. So that the little reliance which the Grand Master had upon the Turkish Faith, made him renew a peace with one that was openly perjured.  
Now because the advice which they daily received at Rhodes of the ill intentions of Bajazet were every day confirmed, the Grand Master thought it necessary to precaution himself against whatever might happen. He sent Barks into Sicily and the Kingdom of Naples for Corn; he also made use of the seeming friendship of the Grand Signior, to fetch all sorts of grain out of the most fertile Countries of Turkey, before the Ottoman Court had laid aside its Vizor, and had openly broken with the Order, he gave command at the same time to lad the great Ship of the Treasury, then upon the Coasts of Provence, with ammunition and soldiers, and that a great Vessel of Ragusa, then in the Port of Rhodes, should sail to Samos for wood proper to build the Ships and Engines of War. As for the fortifications, besides that he made all the ditches wider and larger; he raised new works toward the Sea, and among the rest a Ravelin that extended from the Tower of Naylac, to the Bulwark of France.  
But while the Knights prepared for War in the midst of a profound Peace, Sixtus the fourth died in the heat of the troubles of Rome, which the Colonna's and Ursini had divided into two Factions.  
The Cardinal of Santa Cecilia, a Genoese, and of the house of Cybo, but originally of Rhodes, as being the place where his Father was born▪ succeeded Sixtus in the Government of the Church, by the name of Innocent the Eighth. He was no sooner elected, but he wrote to the Grand Master in such terms as showed a particular esteem for his person. Among other things he exhorted him to maintain generously the interest of the holy See, to show himself an example to Christian Princes, and at last assured him of his favour. The Order, said the Pope in his Brief, of which you are the Chief, is more dear to me then ever; and if God favour our designs, you shall always find me ready to oblige you in whatever concerns yours, or the honour of the Order.  
The Grand Master received this Letter like a true Son of the Church▪ and presently sent his Ambassadors to Rome to tender his obedience to the new Pope. Edward de Carmandin, Bayly of Lango, and Will. Caoursin, Vice Chancellor of the Order were the chief of the Embassy; who made their entry into Rome, with an extraordinary Pomp, and five days after had audience of the Pope, in the presence of all the Princes, Ambassadors and a great number of prelate's. Caoversin, in that renowned assembly made a speech full of piety and eloquence. He first acknowledged the authority of the holy See, and Innocent for the Vicar of Christ, and Peter's successor. Then in particular he declared the Grand Master's joy for the election of his Holiness, and the hopes which the Rhodians had to see Christnanism flourish under the pontificat of a Pope so zealous for the Christian faith. After that he recounted the victories which the Knights had obtained against the infidels, particularly in the last siege of Rhodes. and lastly he offered his Holiness the service of the Knights, assuring him that they should esteem themselves happy to spend their blood to the last drop in the defence of the Holy See.  
The Pope returned an answer himself to Caoursin's speech. Wherein after he had in general terms extolled the valour and zeal of the Knights, he dilated upon the merits of the Grand Master, and confessed that the Church was infinitely obliged to him. The next week the Ambassadors had a particular conference with the Pope, at what time they presented to him a precious stone of an extraordinary figure and colour, several exquisite perfumes, and a rich Vase full of pure Indian Balsam. But the Pope who desired nothing more than to restore peace to Italy, and who seared nothing more than an invasion of the Infidels, turned his discourse upon Zizim, and told the Ambassadors that for the good of Christendom it seemed very necessary that he should be brought to Rome, or to some other City of the Ecclesiastic estate.  
The Ambassadors not having any commission in that particular, they could return no answer, only that they would signify his Holiness' pleasure to the Grand Master. However they received several favours before their departure, & had the honour to carry his Canopy upon the purification of the Virgin, with the Ambassadors of Naples, Milan, and Florence. But as a particular grace to the Order, he granted to the Prior of the Church of Rhodes a power to remit all sins which are reserved to the Holy See, to alter vows, to absolve from oaths, from Irregularity and Simony. He gave them liberty also to have a portative Altar to say Mass either by Sea or Land, as also before day, and in places forbidden by Ecclesiastical censure.  
In the mean time the King of Naples, who after the death of Sixtus, was terribly afraid lest the Venetians should molest his dominions, and that the Turk should come to revenge their quarrel, desired more earnestly than ever to have Zizim in his possession. To which purpose he wrote new Letters to Rhodes, which he delivered to the Ambassadors who passed through Naples in their return home.  
But while Innocent and Ferdinand demanded Zizim from the Grand Master, the Soldau of Egypt urged the same request. Caerber had in relligence that the Great Turk was about to enter Caramania with a powerful Army to punish Caraman. So that he was afraid left the Turks should soon after carry their arms into Syria; and he knew no other expedient to stop Bajazet, then to oppose Zizim against him. But the arrival of the Bailie of Lango, and the Vice Chancellor of the order drew him our of that perplexity whereinto the Ambassador from Egypt had plunged him; for when he understood the Pope's Intentions, as to what concerned Zizim, he gave the Souldan's Ambassador to understand that the Sovereign Priest of Christendom having a design to send for the Ottoman Prince to Rome, the Knights could not dispose of his person not determine any thing without the consent of the Holy See, to which the order of St. John was particularly subject. In the same manner he excused himself to King Ferdinand, accompanying his excuse with many civilities, not being willing to displease a Prince whom he could not gratify, yet desired to serve. But in regard he knew the Pope was not able with his forces alone to undertake any considerable enterprise; and believing withal, that should he send Zizim into the Ecclesiastical state, he should put an obstacle to the Holy league through the jealousies which the Christian Princes would be subject to apprehend, he represented to his Holiness withal the earnestness and respect that might be, that he could not let go Zizim without exposing Christendom to manifest misfortunes. That such a change would give suspicion to Bajazet, and enforce him perhaps to put to Sea, and land in Italy. He added also that the Invasion of the Infidels was very much to be feared, before all Europe was first united against them. However that he would submit the affair to his Holiness whose prudence and justice he very well understood.  
It was about this time that the Grand Master did a very eminent piece of service for the Genoeses in protecting for them the Island of Scio, which was under their subjection, by the gift of Andronicus Paleologus, after they had restored him to his throne. For Francis de Medicis scoured all the Levant Seas with a well armed Galliot, and had taken considerable prizes from the Turks near the Island of Scio. The parties concerned complained to the Cady of Tire, who was a person of great credit in the Ottoman Port, and ordered their business so well, either by presents or false testimonies, that the Mahomet Judge condemned the people of the Island to make good all the losses which the Turks had sustained as if the Islanders had shared with the Galliot, because the Captain had taken in fresh provisions in the Island. The Grand Signior also confirms the Cadi's sentence. But to chastise the Island the more severely, which at Constantinople was accounted a Receptacle for Theives and Pirates, he laid upon them a most enormous tax, and threatened the Islanders with ruin, if they did not speedily pay it down. The inhabitants resolved to justify themselves at the Port, and to represent humbly to the Grand Signior their inability to pay such great sums. But the Barbarian would hearken neither to their reasons not their prayers, and commanded his Vassals to go and sack Scio.  
The Islanders had been lost without hope, if the wisest of the Company had not advised them to have recourse to the Grand Master. There upon they earnestly besought him to be their protector at such a time of calamity wherein only his authority could save them.  
The Grand Master heated, too much, injustice and violence, to suffer the oppression of a poor people that were altogether Innocent, and were not in a condition to defend themselves. Thereupon he wrote to the Port, and did it so effectually, that Bajazet cancelled the Judgement, and remitted the Tax which himself had imposed.  
Cardinal Paul Fregosa, Duke of Genoa immediately returned thanks to the Grand Master in a very civil Letter. But the Lords Monesi, who were the chief in Scio, and happened to be at Genoa at the same time, deputed Signior Lanfranco Patera, a person of quality and merit to carry him a testimony of their Gratitude. It was a Basin and Ewer of Gold of exquisite workmanship, on which these Latin words were graven.  Dominorum Chii Reverendissimo Petro D'Aubusson, MAGNO MAGISTRO RHODI, DE SE OPTIME MERITO DONUM. 
Much about the same time the Grand Master received Intelligence of the death of Charlota de Lusignan Queen of Cyprus and Armenia. This unfortunate Princess was constrained to quit Rhodes, and travel to Rome, as I have already said in the beginning of this History. Pope Sixus the fourth received her magnificently, and undertook her interest very zealously; so that he persuaded the chief of the Island more than once to acknowledge her for their Sovereign Queen. The Letters from his Holiness were read publicly at Nicosia before the Church of Santa Sophia, and made so deep an Impression upon their spirits, that the people took Arms, ran in throngs to the Palace and massacred the Uncles of Katherine Cornara, who were accused to have poisoned James of Lusignan her husband. But the Venetians by whose authority Katherine reigned, or rather who ruled under the name of Katherine, appeased the sedition and quickly mastered it.  
Charlota seeing that all the solicitations of the Pope, produced no good for her, went to Lewis her husband in Piedmont. The Lord of Montjeu, whom the Duke of Burgundy sent Ambassador to Venice, gave a visit to Lewis and Charlota at Montcalier, where they lived, and promised them according to the Instructions he had received from his Master, to represent their rights to the Senate. But all his Remonstrances proving ineffectual, the Princess returned to Rome, and there settled herself after the death of Lewis, who piously ended his days in a kind of solitude, whither he was retired. She supervived him some years, and during her widowhood she gave the Kingdom of Cyprus to Charles Duke of Savoy her Nephew, to whom it otherwise belonged by the articles of marriage between Charlota and Lewis. This Donation was solemnly made to the procuratours of Charles, of the number of which was the Admiral of Rhodes; and by virtue of this Act it is, that the Dukes of Savoy take upon them the Title of Kings, and pretend to the Kingdom of Cyprus.  
The news of her death sensibly grieved the Grand Master, who had always looked upon her as one of the most accomplished Princesses of the world,  
In the mean time the Emperor of the Turks, having raised a numerours' Army, and made himself Master almost without any trouble of those Provinces that were left the Grand Caraman, he turned his Arms against Syria and Egypt, incensed at the Sultan, for that he had with disdain denied him the wife and children of Zizim. For how false soever he were in that, out of I know not what fantastic piece of honesty; which shows us that men are sometimes contrary to themselves, and that the wicked, like mad men, have their lucid Intervals.  
Now, though the preparations all over Turkey seemed only to bend against the Dominions of Cairbei, yet the King of Hungary took the Alarm. And as thunder when at first it gins to grumble in the clouds, seems to threaten most they that hear it nearest; this Prince probably thought the Tempest would fall upon him, if he took not care in time to divert it. Yet as great a Soldier, and as a Potent as Mathias was, he thought that the Grand Master would be a necessary assistance to him; for which purpose he sent to him Pauli de Rhetas, his Secretary and his favourite.  
Rhetas declared at the first Audience which he had at Rhodes, that the King of Hungary was resolved to make War against the Turks, and in prosecution thereof, neither to spare his treasure, nor his life; and therefore desired to join his Arms with those of the Knights of St. John, but above all to follow the Counsels of the Grand Master in an enterprise of so much hazard and difficulty. The Hungarian Ambassador likewise added, that his Master had private correspondence with the Grandees of the Port, that several Bassa's had resolved to forsake Bajazet's Party, so soon as Zizim should appear upon the Confines of Hungary, and at the head of the Hungarian Troops. That the interest of Christendom required that he should send the Ottoman Prince in all haste; and that it was a favour which a King illustrious for his piety and his valour requested from the most generous Knights in the world.  
The Proposal of Rhetas seemed rational to the Grand Master and his Council. But there are certain nice conjunctures wherein the wisest of men cannot follow sometimes neither the common Rules of Prudence, not their own particular Judgements. Though to all outward appearances, and upon a serious consideration of the bottom of things, it had been but reason to have trusted Zizim with the King of Hungary: yet the engagement which obliged the Grand Master to keep the Prince by virtue of the Treaty of Peace made with the Port, according to the Prince's own desire, and the fear of offending his Holiness, were the cause that the Hungarian Ambassador could obtain no other answer then a handsome denial. However, the Grand Master wrote to the King: and after he had insisted a while in particular upon the Advantage which Christendom might receive from the person● of Zizim, in case that Bajazet should make any attempt against the Treaty, he told him that it being impossible for any War to be carried on against the Turk, without a firm league between the Christian Princes, it belonged to the common Pastor of the Church to assemble them together.  
That such sort of enterprises seldom prospered, unless upheld by the Authority of the Church; and lastly that if the Ottoman Prince were to leave France, he could be no where better than at Rome, where he would be in the view of all Christendom neither too far off, nor too near the Estates of the Grand Signior.  
The Conquest which Bajazet had made of Caria, and of other Provinces of the Grand Caraman, made the Sultan to believe that after he had refused to Bajazet the Wife and Children of Zizim, that he was certainly to expect the Turkish Army ●t his own doors. And therefore whatever strength the Cairbie had, he thought himself of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem. For that reason, to engage them to his Interests he dispatched to Rhodes, Riccio de Marini, a Gentleman of Cyprus, and the same person who formerly came to serve Queen Charlotta against the Republic of Venice. Marini had Instructions to declare to the Knights that the advantages which they had gained in so many encounters against the Turks, put the Sultan in hopes of a happy success, provided they would embrace his quarrel, and that he should think himself invincible, ●f he could but have Prince Zizim at the head of his Troops.  
The Grand Master sensible of the generous proceeding of Cairbei toward Zizim, almost forgot the ill ●sage which the Rhodians had received at his hands; and therefore he very civilly testified to his Ambassador, that he was very much troubled that the present condition of the Rhodian Affairs would not permit him to assist Egypt. That the Knights of Rhodes had made a peace with the Turks, and that they always religiously observed the faith of Treaties. But in regard the Grand Master desired nothing more than to see two potent enemies of Christianity destroy one another, he added that since the refusal of Zizim's Wife and Children, was the only cause of Bajazet's anger, it was his advice that the Sultan should go on with the War, not doubting but that Heaven would favour so just a Cause as his. As for Zizim whom the Sultan requested, he told the Emdassadour at length, that he could conclude nothing without advice from Rome. But that he would write to the Pope, and signify to him that the Sultan had provoked Bajazet to make War upon him only for detaining and preserving the Wife and Children of Zizim; unwilling to sacrifice to his Brother's fury what Zizim had most dear in the world.  
The Grand Master's answer satissied the Egyptians, and raised their courages, which the defeat of the Grand Caraman, their neighbour, had almost dejected. For the Ottoman Army consisting of a hundred thousand men, being got by several ways into Caramania, and having quartered themselves between Pyramus, the Sar and Cydnus near the old Castle of Adena, and the ruins of the ancient City of Tarsus, the Egyptian forces, that were not above fifty thousand strong, presented themselves in view of the Turks upon the banks of Pyramus, after they had crossed with an extraordinary swiftness the famous straits that separate Syria from Caramania. The Soldiers that composed the Egyptian Army, were called Corcassian Mamalucks, all Christians that had renounced their Religion, or else never professed any, being ravished from their Mother's breasts, and bred up in war from their Infancy. The Eunuch Bassa, General of the Turkish Army, gave them no time to rest, but attacked them with fifty thousand Horse before they had time to understand the Ground. It was in one of those plains that extend to the Mountain Aman, and where Alexander defeated Darius, that the Captain of the spahis having passed the Pyramus over the Bridge of Adena, went on to assail the Mamalukes. Wearied as they were, they bore with an extraordinary vigour the first brunt, and fell on with such fury, that the Assailants were forced to defend themselves. After an obstinate fight which Night parted, the Mamalukes remained Masters of the Field. Above thirty thousand Turks were slain upon the place, the rest saved themselves in the Mountains, or else retired to the Castle of Adena, which they had fortified a little before, though it were taken soon after by the Victors.  
But that which made this victory more complete was, that the same day; ten Galleys which Ach●at Bassa, the Grand Signiors Son in Law, and Admiral at Sea, had sent from the rest of the fleet to waste the Coast of Syria, were overtaken by a furious tempest, and dashed against the Rocks. This misfortune constrained Achmat to return to Constantinople with the rest of the fleet. Passing through the Channel of Rhodes, in view of the City, not content to salute the Knights by discharging all his great Guns, he resolved to show their Captain a particular Kindness. For having set up a magnificent Pavilion in one of the fairest of his Galleys, adorned with a great number of rich Pendants and Banners, he sent a young Turk his Favourite, called Osman, to visit the Grand Master on his behalf. The Galley entered the Port with the sound of Trumpets and Drums, mixed with the joyful acclamations of the Turks that attended Osman. They were all richly habited, nor had they the faces of men that made a shameful retreat. When the young Turk came into the Grand Master's presence, he saluted him after the Mussutman fashion, and presented him a Letter wherein the Bassa made him a thousand protestations of friendship and service. Afterwards having presented him with several stuffs of great value, and several rare pieces of workmanship, he told him with a good grace, that such a small present was not worth the famous Prince of the Rhodians. The Grand Master would not be behind either in civility or liberality toward the Barbarians; for besides the Caresses and the entertainment which he gave to Osman, he sent one of his most Illustrious Commanders with all sort of refreshments for the fleet, and rich presents for himself.  
Scarce was Osman, who stayed not above 3 hour in Rhodes, joined with the fleet, but the Grand Master had Intelligence of their defeat, of which he heard not a word from them; the spies which he had in most parts of Caramania, and even in the Castle ●f Adena itself, giving him an exact account hereof. Besides that the Sultan himself, well satisfied with the advantage he had won with his own forces, failed not in honour of his dignity, to give him a relation himself, as the person who had foretold his success. But this prosperity did not blind Cairbey, who knew it was not enough to vanquish, unless he made advantage of his victory. To this purpose he thought that an Embassy to the Pope might produce good effects, and he communicated his thoughts to the Grand Master, not daring to enterprise such a thing without his counsel, nor hoping to obtain his desires without his intercession.  
In the mean while the Pope, who made it his business to unite the Christian Princes against the Turk, was every day extraordinary pressing for the removal of Zizim, and he began to talk somewhat like a Commander. For how mild and moderate soever Innocent might be in his particular conduct, he was jealous of his authority, and would make himself to be obeyed, when he acted for the public good. The Grand Master, who knew what obedience he and the rest of the Knights owed to the Pope, as head of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, was not desirous to stay for an express command. He therefore gave Zizim to understand the intentions of his holiness and finding the Prince's inclination, he resolved at length to consent to what he could not handsomely avoid.  
Besides that policy required that he should gratify his Holiness, other reasons persuaded him to take that course. For the blow that the Turks had received, had put Constantinople into an uproar, and weak'nd the Ottoman Empire. Bajazet was not in a condition to enterprise any thing against the Christians, being in continual fear of the Mahometans after the Souldan's victory. He was in hopes that the Christian Princes would open their eyes upon such a fortunate conjuncture, and that they would league themselves against the common enemy, when they saw Sultan Zizim in the hands of the common Father of the faithful; besides that Innocent had good intentions, and only designed to have Zizim in Italy, not pretending to have him at his disposal. Zizim also himself began to be weary of solitude, and designed to change his residence.  
All these considerations engaged him to send to Rome the Bailie of the Morea, and the Vice Chancellor of the Order, with an ample procuration as to this affair. The Ambassadors being arrived, and having had audience of the Pope consented to the removal of Zizim, provided the King of France did not oppose it, and that the Knights of Rhodes might always attend him. Charles the 8th, who stood in need of the Pope for the Conquest of Naples, readily consented to his Holiness desire, who wrote very urgent Letters to him for that purpose. And the Pope easily granted what the Knights requested, being persuaded of the good Intentions of the Grand Master, and only as he did, aiming at the public benefit.  
Thus the Commander Blanchefort, in his absence elected Marshal of the Order, and Grand Prior of Auvergne, brought away Zizim from the commandery of Burgneuf, according to the Letters directed to him from the Grand Master. The Prince was conducted by land to Marseilles, where the Great Ship of the Order attended him. By the way, he testified more than once, that he was very glad he was going to Rome, after six years stay in France, and he requested the Knights not to forsake him. The voyage was not very fortunate; for never did the Sea of Genoa rage more, as if the winds had endeavoured to drive Zizim back from the coasts of Italy. Nevertheless, maugre the storm, he arrived at Civita Vecchia, the sixth of March. 1489.  
Leonard Cybo, the Pope's Kinsman, was come to receive the Prince, and he acquitted himself very well of his commission: Putting into the hands of the grand Prior Blanchefort the Castle of the Town, which was appointed for the lodging of Zizim, in order to the promise which the Pope had made to the Rhodian Ambassadors.  
The Pope was very joyful for the arrival of the Turkish Prince, which inspired him with new thoughts of kindness for the Grand Master, that appeared publicly three days after; for the Pope honoured him with a Cardinal's Cap in a new promotion upon the ninth of March. He gave him the Title of St. Adrian, and to render his purple more Illustrious, he added to it by his express Bulls the Title of Legate General of the holy See in Asia.  
The Cardinal D'Angers, venerable for his Age, and for his virtue as well as for his Purple, and in whom fortune shows that a low extraction sometimes serves to exalt great Merit, went to meet Zizim twelve miles out of Rome, with Prince Francis Cybo the Son of Innocent, who had been married before he entr'd into holy Orders, and Son in law to the famous Laurence de Medici. They saluted the Prince in the name of the Pope, and in such terms, as testified no less affection for his person, then respect to his birth, and taking upon him themselves to be his guide, they brought him strait to Rome.  
Dominico Doria, Captain of the Pope's Guards, stayed for him on horseback without the City, accompanied by a great number of considerable persons without the City, near the Gate of St. Sebastian; that being the Gate through which the Prince made his entry. The Turks who served him, and all his other Domestics marched first; the Cardinal's Gentlemen next of them, followed by all the Roman Nobility, that never were more lively, nor better mounted. Then appeared Doria at the head of his light horse, followed by the Knights of Rhodes, after whom road the Ambassadors of the several Princes, all but of France who with Prince Francis Cybo, the Grand Prior Blanchefort, and the Senator of Rome immediately preceded Zizim. He road alone, mounted upon a stately horse, which he managed with a comely Grace. He was clad, as usually the Turkish Emperors are upon solemn days. His countenances was haughty and majestic, which being tempered with a sweet melancholy, attracted all at once respect, compassion and love. His Holiness steward followed behind with an innumerable company of Prelates that belong to the Pope's house. And in this order they came to the Vatican.  
The Cardinal of Angers, who had taken his leave with in two miles of the Town upon pretence of going to advertise the Pope of his approach, but indeed because he would not be one of the Cavalcade, either because of his dignity or his age, met him at the Gate of the place, and conducted him to the apartment of Pope Clement, where the Grand Master Raymund Zacosta held a General Chapter of the Order under the Pontificate of Paul the 2d.  
The day following the Grand Prior de Blanchefort, and the Ambassadors of France, conducted him to his audience of the Pope in a full consistory. They had advertized him that it was the custom to kiss the feet of his Holiness, and the greatest Kings in the World thought it no dishonour to condescend so far. But he had much ado to stoop to that condescension; and some say that all he could be brought to, was to bow to kiss the Pope's hand. He saluted the Cardinals after a manner that was neither humble nor disdainful, but as became a person of so high an extraction. Though he were born eloquent, and at other times spoke very fluently, yet he only spoke four or five words very briskly, and those in Turkish, whether it were that the lustre of so famous an assembly dazzled him, or whether he thought it below the Majesty of an Ottoman Prince to make a long discourse. George Jaxi a Rhodian his interpreter declared, that he only said, he was extremely glad to see Rome.  
Innocent, whose head was full of high designs, and who aimed at no less than to free the Orient from the Tyranny of the Infidels, promised to himself a most happy success, at the sight of Sultan Zizim, and believed that the Son of Mahomet was sent him from Heaven to be serviceable to him; for that purpose the Embassy also which he received at the same time from the Sultan of Egypt, strengthened his hopes. For Cairbei, at the persuasion of the Grand Master did homage to the Holy See, and engaging to enter into the Holy League, promised to set forth the most puissant Army that ever marched out of Egypt.  
His Holiness was so sensible of these high services of the Grand Master, that to manifest to all the world how much he was satisfied, and to bestow upon him in particular the solid marks of his favour, he granted him an extraordinary privilege, so much the more considerable, because he parted from his own right in granting it.  
The Popes in possession were to provide for several benefices of the Order of Rhodes and they claimed that right by the authority which they have in general over all Religious Orders. and in particular over that of St. John of Jerusalem. This right did Innocent renounce by a consistorial Bull signed by all the Cardinals, depriving the See of ever conferring any commandery of the Order, though the benefice should happen to be vacant in the Court of Rome, and declaring withal by the same Bull, that the disposal of all commanderies absolutely belonged to the Grand Master, without being comprised under such benefices as the Popes had reserved, or might hereafter reserve.  
He also granted to the Grand Master the power absolutely to dispose of the benefices and military Revenus of the Holy Sepulchre, and St. Lazarus, uniting those Orders again to that of St. John of Jerusalem by an express Bull, wherein his Holiness himself made a particular ●logium upon the Grand Master and the Knights.  
The Grand Master who now began to entitle himself Cardinal, Grand Master, was exstremely sensible of all these favours which he never requested, and believed to be above his merit, accounting as nothing what he had done, and daily accusing himself that he had not fulfilled the duties of his calling and his trust. He solemnly received the Cap in the Church of St. John Baptist upon St. Peter and Paul's day; and he was at the same time proclaimed Universal Legate of the See in Asia.  
These favours and new dignities put the Grand Master upon new ●…es and assiduities. And in regard the revenues of the Order were very much increased by the addition of the Orders of the Holy Sepulchre and St. Lazarus, he applied himself presently to the settlement of the treasury; and he made very wise laws for the good government of the public revenue, as may be seen in the Book of the statutes of the Order. He made other laws touching elections and Sentences, which are observed to this day, full of prudence and Justice.  
But the peaceable state of affairs, together with new accessions of wealth and plenty, gave the Master opportunity to rebuild the ruin'd Churches, and among others that of St. Anthony, which was the burying place for the Knights, and which he himself had caused to be pulled down for the safety of the City. It was built in another place much more magnificent than before.  
Some years ere that he had founded a Chapel under the Name of the Holy Virgin, in the Church of Monteil-au Viconte, the place of his birth; but understanding that the building remained unfinished, he assigned a certain stock of money to go on with the work, and perfect it. He also founded several others in the Island of Rhodes, and one in the Church of Mount Palermus, to increase the devotion of the people.  
But these were not the principal Employments of the Cardinal Grand Master; for when he saw himself loathed with the Purple Robe, he ●…ought himself more than ever obliged to serve the Holy See, as he had suddenly several important occasions to do.  
It is impossible to imagine what ●as the extreme surprise and dis●…solation of Bajazet, when he ●…derstood, that his Brother was 〈◊〉 Rome. He had understood be●ore, that such a design was in hand; ●…d because there was nothing that 〈◊〉 feared more, to fend off that ●…ow, he made great offers to Charles the 8 th'. Besides that he promised ●…m all the Relics that his Father ●ad found in Constantinople, and 〈◊〉 other Cities of Europe and Asia, 〈◊〉 engaged to send him all his ●orces for the recovery of the Holy 〈◊〉 and, which was under the Domi●…on of the Sultan of Egypt, and to ●…y him  he demanded 〈◊〉 the maintenance of Zizim. But ●…ese propositions took no effect; for Zizim was not in France when the Ambassodors arrived.  
The Grand Seignior's vexation redoubled, when he understood what Confederacies the Pope and the Sultan had made together. He loudly complained of the Conduct of the Grand Master; and by an express Ambassador, he bloodily reproached, even to threaten him, that he would never observe any Laws of Civility with men, that did not keep their word. As fierce as the Grand Master was, he did not always give way to his Passion; for when affairs required moderation, there was no person more tractable, nor more condescending than he. Therefore to appease Bajazet at a time, when it was not for the good of Christendom to exasperate him, he gave him to understand, That the removal of Zizim did not at all injure the Treaty of Peace, the Tenor of which was, in respect of the Sultan, That the Knights should be answerable for his Person, and should do their utmost, that he should not fall into the hands of any Prince. He assured him, that Zizim was in Italy, under the Guard of the Knights of Rhodes, as he was in France, and that no Prince could call himself Master of his Person. He added also. That the change of his Residence was by the absolute order of those whom the Knights were bound to obey. Besides, that this change, if rightly considered, had nothing in it but what was advantageous to the Port: That Charles the Eighth, a Person of great designs, might have taken Zizim out of the commandry of Bourgneuf, when ever he had had occasion to make use of him; whereas being in the Pope's power, he could make no advantage of him. In regard that not having a power sufficient of himself, it was absolutely necessary for him to join with other Princes, if he intended to carry a War out of Italy. That an Union was a difficult affair, and such a one as required long time, as being oftentimes crossed by the jealousies of Princes; and at this time impossible, because of their divisions.  
The Grand Master declared moreover, That Bajazet had nothing to fear, while he kept himself quiet; but the least motion against Italy would awake all the Princes of Christendom, and enforce them to an Union against him. That now the best course he could take, was, to manage his business in Italy, to break the Correspondencies of the Sultan. That an Ambassador of the Port would be well received at Rome, and that he was only there to seek for the success of his affairs.  
The Grand Signior, who was not then in a condition to be revenged for the breach of word, which he pretended, and found probability enough in the Grand Master's Reasons, never stood long to consider what he had to do: He resolved to be quiet, and to follow the counsel which had been given him touching an Embassy to Rome. But that he might know more exactly what he had to say to the Pope, and after what manner he should proceed, sent another Ambassador to the Grand Master. This Negotiation continued several months, in which time there were nothing but continual Voyages from Constantinople to Rhodes. The Grand Master however put no confidence in these Embassies, but expected a Rupture, so soon as Bajazet should have an opportunity to display his secret hatred against the Knights; and therefore that the Pope might have time to make a League between the Christian Princes, he spun out affairs as much as he could, either by creating difficulties, which perplexed the Grand Signior, or by giving ambiguous Answers, which were unsatisfactory.  
While things thus passed between the Knights and the Turks, one of the Pope's Legates had like to have spoiled all by his imprudence. Philip de Canova, whom the Pope sent to the Sultan, being arrived at Cairo, publicly declared very idly, and without any ground, That the Knights of Rhodes had no power in the affair of Zizim. He spoke this so openly, and upon so many occasions, that the report thereof came to the Port. This news cooled the Grand Signior as to any further Negotiation with Rhodes, now growing jealous that the Knights did but abuse him; and it had come to an open War, had not the Grand Master dextrously reconciled what the Legate had spoiled: He declared so loudly the contrary, and by the Pope's Letters themselves so well overturned the falsity that Canova had averted, that, in a short time, he regained the former confidence which Bajazet had in him. The Negotiation was renewed, and it was on both sides agreed, that the Grand Prior Blanchefort, who was come to Rhodes, to be present at the General Chapter, and was to return to Zizim, should conduct the Ambassador of the Port, that was to go to Rome.  
An act so dextrous, and so successful, soon made a noise over Europe, and very much advanced the Reputation of the Grand Master; He was the discourse of all the Courts of Europe, and his name was so famous in that of Castille, that a young Lady of eminent Quality, having forsaken the World, admiring what she had heard of the prudence and virtue of Cardinal D'Aubusson, resolved to found a Nunnery according to his Model of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem: To which purpose, she requested leave of the Cardinal; who overjoyed to see such pious and virtuous inclinations in a young Lady, readily condescended. Thereupon the Lady, whose name was Isabel di Leon, descended from one of the most ancient Families in Andalousia, founded a House of Religious Virgins, of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem; and the Founder was named Princess by the Grand Master, the Nuns are to be all of Noble Race, and to be approved as the Knights are; and they are particularly to pray for the Knights, and, as much as in them lies, to forward the ruin of Mahumetism, and the exaltation of the Faith. Isabel Fernandes founded also another House of Nuns in Evora, a City of Portugal, in the time of Villerius, Grand Master.  
But to return to Bajazet, Chamisbuerch his Capigi Bassa, his Ambassador to the Pope, arrived at Rome, and was presented to his Holiness by the Grand Prior Blanchefort. who accompanied him to the City. The Grand Master, when he counselled the Embassy, advised the Grand Signior to make a Present to the Pope, and above all things to send him the Head of the Lance that pierced the side of Christ, which Mahumet laid up in in his Treasury among the rich Spoils which he found in the Churches of Constantinople. The Relic was suspected at first, but upon the testimony of the Grand Master, the Infidels were believed, who testified. that he had had it from very credible persons, that the Venetians had offered Mahomet 15000 Crowns in Gold to retrieve it out of his hands, after the taking of Constantinople.  
But in regard it was the intention of the Grand Signior wholly to gain the Pope, he added to his Present very obliging Letters, wherein, after he had given him an account of an Expedition which he had made against the Rebels of Macedonia, he swore an inviolable friendship with him, and besought him, that his Brother Zizim might always remain under the Guard of the Knights of Rhodes, according to the Articles he had made with them.  
These submissions of Bajazet very much pleased the Pope, and were no small honour to the Grand Master: He had a thousand Applauses in Italy, and received the Compliments of all the Christian Princes. But an unhappy accident did not long permit him quietly to enjoy this Honour; for a young Gentleman, of a good House, who was then in the service of the Knight Puis, Bailiff of the Morea, and Captain of the Castle of St. Peter, stealing away from his Master's House, and having renounced his Religion in Turkey, the Peace was just upon the point of being broken between the Christians and the Turks.  
For the Bailiff of the Morea touched to the quick at what had befallen his Page, took a strange resolution to recover him; he Sallies out of the Castle with some Soldiers, and entering into Lycia, he takes, by way of Reprisal, two young Turks, Sons of the most considerable person in the Country, notwithstanding the resistance made by their Father, whom he slew with his own hand. So violent an act seemed to the Barbarians a visible breach of the Peace. They take Arms, and march directly to the Castle of St. Peter, whether the Bailiff of the Morea was retired with his Prey. The Sultan Zalabi, the Grand Seignior's Son, and Governor of Lycia, sent an Agent to Rhodes, to complain of the Attempt made by the Knights of the Castle of St. Peter. The Bayliff's act was neither prudent nor just, so that the Grand Master could not but, with sorrow, very much resent it: and he had not stuck a moment to have delivered both the Children back again, but that one of them testified an inclination to turn Christian. But the young Turk declaring, that he was resolved to continue a Mussulman, and hated the very thought of Christianity, the Governor of Lycia was satisfied with the restoration of the two Prisoners.  
Thus was the Tranquillity of the Province resettled, nor had the Subjects any thing more to fear, but only the Rapines of certain Pirates that infested their Coasts; the most famous was Don Diego Ordonna, a Spaniard by Nation, a person bold and daring, of a savage humour, and a bestial valour, more barbarous than the Infidels, cruising all Coasts with an Armed Caravel, and acknowledging no Right but Force, nor any God but Interest. He had taken a little before certain Merchants Vessels within sight of Rhodes; and his power at Sea was grown so formidable, that the Ships of the Order durst hardly venture out of the Port.  
The Grand Master could not brook the Insolences and Robberies of this Castilian Pirate. And knowing that Ferdinand and Isabel, who were then subduing the Moors, did not allow a Castilian Pirate to be so vexatious to the Christians; he sent against him the Knight Raymond Thivian with his Galley, and another Man of War with a Crew of stout Knights; who coming up with this Pirate, plied him so warmly, that he was constrained to yield, after a vigorous resistance: he was brought to Rhodes chained hand and foot, and afterwards broken alive upon the Wheel; his Goods, that were Confiscated to the Grand Master, were, by his order, distributed to the Merchants that he robbed.  
The Island of Lango was, about this time afflicted with several calamities together; a horrible and sudden Earthquake, that lasted for several days, threw down most part of the houses in the Country of Naranga; and what was more lamentable, this calamity happened in a time, that a dreadful Contagion overspread the Island. It is not to be imagined how much the Grand Master was afflicted for the miseries of these poor people, nor how great his cares were for their relief. He sent two great Vessels, laden with all necessaries, for their support, and caused the Lake of Naranga to be speedily cleansed, and the Tide to be let into it, to carry away the noisome Vapours that might corrupt the air. And so well his pains succeeded, that the Contagion ceased so soon as the Lake was cleansed.  
But these employments at home, did not make the Grand Master forget his affairs abroad: He continually solicited the Pope to pacify Italy; and he besought him still to conclude, with all the speed that might be, a League between the Christian Princes. But all these solicitations and prayers took no effect. Innocent died of a sudden, and all those hopes that all good men had conceived died with him. The advancement of Roderic Borgia, by the name of Alexander the Sixth, little availed to comfort the Grand Master for the loss which the Church had received. The humour of the new Pope promised little good to Christendom; for there was little good to be expected from a person, who had purchased the Suffrages of the Cardinals to enjoy a place, of which he knew himself unworthy. He had been Protector of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem while he was Cardinal, and by a Brief which he sent to the Grand Master, he declared, That the Knights of Rhodes should still be in his most favourable thoughts. But the Effects were no way answerable to his words. Alexander first shown his Pontifical Authority, by taking into his own possession the Person of Prince Zizim, contrary to the Agreement made between Innocent and the Knights. He shut up the Sultan the Castle of St. Angelo, and dismissing the Knights who had always been about him, put him into the possession of his Nephews, of which one was a Knight of Rhodes. His pretence was, that a life so precious as that of the Prince, would be less exposed to the Ambuscado's of his Enemies in a strong place; and that one Knight of Rhodes being near him, the rest were needless in a place that did defend itself: and these Excuses he sent by an Express to the Grand Master. But the true motive that induced the Pope to this act, was, because that understanding the King of France was preparing for an Expedition into Italy, he would have wherewithal to cross or promote his designs, as he should judge most proper for his Interests. For Charles the VIII. did not only intent the Conquest of Naples; for Fame every where reported, that he was resolved to have carried his Arms into Greece. Whether this design were only in thought, or actually intended, I will not dispute; but certain it is, that he communicated it to the Grand Prior Blanchefort, whom the Affairs of the Order enforced to travel out of Italy into France; and he testified several times the earnest desire he had to see the Grand Master, that he might consult with him about a Voyage beyond the Seas.  
Zizim was extremely displeased to see himself in the hands of Alexander, and under the Guard of his Nephews, being always accustomed to the Knights who had accompanied him both in France and Italy. As they had always great respect for him, and, in serving him, had always fought to make his condition more pleasant; he loved them tenderly, and could not choose but shed tears when he took his leave of them. He did for them all that lay in the power of his Fortune; he wrote to the Grand Master in their behalf, representing to him the value of their services, and assuring him, that what ever favours he belowed upon them, he would put upon his own account, as done to himself. He besought him likewise not to abandon an unfortunate person, who owed his life to him, and from whom he could only hope for a change of his condition.  
In the mean while, Charles the 8 th'. passed the Mountains at the head of all the Gallantry and Stoutness in his Kingdom; and having crossed, like a Victor, the half of Italy, he marched on, and presented himself before Rome. The Pope, of whom he only demanded passage through his Country, was afraid ●e●t, under that pretence, he should make himself Master of the City; but the presence of so great an Army would not permit him to listen to his fear, he granted what he could not refuse. And though the King, by a public Manifesto, declared, that he only came to Rome to accomplish a Vow that he had made, and that he only went to Naples in his way to Constantinople, yet he gave no credit to his words.  
For Alexander, who had no kindness at all for the French, and had disobliged them upon several occasions, easily imagined, according to his Principles, that they would not lose so fair an opportunity to revenge themselves. But as he had a nimble craft, he sought always to give them satisfaction, and condescended to  they desired. He gave the young Conqueror the Investiture of both Sicily's, and Crowned him Emperor of Constantinople. Besides that, he delivered into his hands Sultan Zizim, whom the King had chief requested, out of a design to pursue his Conquests into the East, after he had mastered Naples. The Ottoman Prince was surrendered to the French by a solemn Act, and with a public Ceremony, where Alexander and Charles were present. He saluted Charles after such a manner, as neither bespoke him a Barbarian nor a Prisoner. After he had kissed his Shoulder and his Hand, with a lofty Air, he told the King, That he ●op'd the French would, in his per●on, consider the Ottoman Race; and added, that when they should cross over into Greece, he should find a way to acknowledge their Civilities. Charles was ravished with admitation of the Great Soul which he ●…w in the Sultan, and treated him with so much Courtesy and Generosity, that Zizim testified his joy for being fallen into the hands of so generous a Monarch.  
They departed from Rome for Naples both together; but the poor Prince, who prepared himself to assist the Enterprise of the French, and who was in hopes to raise his own Fortune by following theirs, 〈◊〉 himself struck by the way with 〈◊〉 unknown distemper, that carried ●im off in a few days. His death ●…rpriz'd all men, and there was ●reat enquiry made into the cause. They that were of the Popes' party reported, that he gave himself too ●uch over to his Pleasures the first days of his liberty, and that he killed himself with excess of Debauchery. Others say, that the Venetians corrupted with money h● the Turks, and alarmed at the French Expedition, had secretly given him poison. But most accuse the Pop● to have delivered him poisoned to Charles the 8 th'. to the end tha● France should get no advantage by him; 
Reynald. Annal. Ecclesiae, An. 1495.  and the report ran, that Alexander received a good sum of money to perform that wicked act. Thus ended the life of Zizim, an unfortunate Prince, and yet more illustrious by his Misfortunes then by his Birth. Some think he died a Christian, and that he was Baptised at Rome before the death of Innocent the 8 th'. But those Authors, who have spoken most of this Prince, say nothing of his Conversion; which makes me believe, that, to aggravate his misfortunes, he died a Mahometan.   

THE HISTORY OF Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of RHODES.  
Book Sixth.  
THe Grand Master, who took very heavily the news of Zi●im's Captivity, could not receive ●e news of his death without in●…gnation and horror; and he ●und himself laden with all the ●rief that a man could have, for the ●…ath of a person so extremely dear to him. But when the Interest o● Christianity intermixed with tha● tenderness, all his Fortitude wa● little enough to support him from being wholly depressed by an accident so Tragical. He adored the profound wisdom of God, that would not suffer the Christians to reap any advantage from the person o● the Ottoman Prince, and permitted them, who had most interest to preserve him, to be his destroyers. But he admired as well the conduct of Providence, that would not give the Infidel liberty to gain any benefit by his death; but to unhinge all their designs, gave Victory to the Triumphant Arms of France in Italy.  
Ferdinand King of Naples being dead of an Apoplexy, after Mathias Corvin, King of Hungary, and Pope Innocent the Eighth, who both died of the same disease; Alfonso, a wicked Prince, hated by the Nobility and People, succeeded his Father; but terrified by the rapid march of the French, and fearing besides the dire effects of public Rage, he left his Crown to his Son Ferdinand, and retired into Sicily. The new King also followed the example of Alfonso; and after he had awhile disputed with the French the Avenues of the Kingdom, abandoned it quite; so that the King of France made himself Master of the Capital Cities without striking one stroke. All Turkey trembled at the progress of the French Army, and the terror was so great at Constantinople, that the Priests of the Mahometan Religion publicly cried out. That the Turkish Empire was lost without redemption.  
Now before the Forces, appointed for the Expedition of Italy set out of France, Charles the 8 th'. had sent to Rhodes the Grand Prior Blanchefort, to desire the Grand Master to meet him at Rome. He also dispatched away to him the Commander of Angers with very urgent Letters, so soon as he had crossed the Mountains. More than this, as he earnestly desired this Interview, though whether to be truly instructed as to the design he had upon the Levant, or to dazzle the World, that it should not be known which way he bended, is uncertain; he desired the Pope to write to the Grand Master, and wrote to him also with his own hand. And indeed his Letter was the most civil and engaging in the world: For after that he had declared, that he could not live without his counsel, nor enterprise any thing upon the Levant but under his Conduct, he conjured him to hasten his Voyage, for the reasons which he had declared to the Grand Prior Blanchefort his Nephew, to whom he had opened his mind as to a Knight of great prudence, and of absolute experience.  
This Letter coming to Rhodes before the Grand Prior, whom stress of weather had beaten off from the Island, the Grand Master, who believed such flattering expressions could not be sincere; and who saw but small foundations for a design that France made such a stir about, returned for answer to the King, ●hat he could not but highly applaud his Majesty's Zeal; That it was too much honour for him to ●…ght under his Banners, or to contribute any thing to the Glory of his Achievements. But in regard the Grand Prior Blanchefort had order to declare to him the whole secrets of the Affair, he daily expected to obey his Majesty's Orders.  
The King, out of his impatience to see the Grand Master in Italy, wrote him a second Letter so soon as he was entered Naples. He also desired Cardinal Briconnet, and Cardinal de Garce, who accompanied him, and to whom the Pope had given Caps at his instance, to write both of them to the same effect. The first only exhorted him in general terms, not to deny that which was requested of him with so much ardency. The second, who had more zeal, went more home to the business, and after he had given him an account of all that had passed in the Kingdom of Naples, desired him that he would condescend to be a Tutor to a young Conqueror, who was wholly intent upon the delivery of Greece, and whose hopes depended upon the Counsels of a Captain so experienced, and so formidable to the Enemies of the Faith. He added, That in that little time that so glorious an Enterprise was delayed, the opportunity was in danger to be lost. That it was to be feared, lest the debaucheries that usually attend upon great Conquests, might corrupt the Courages of the French Soldiers; That the sins of Victors might draw upon them the malediction of Heaven; That the Enemies of France sowed jealousies in the minds of the Princes of Italy, to engage them to cross the designs of Charles; and that all preparations were making to form a League against him. That several, under the pretence of the good of his Kingdom, advised him to return into France, before he entered upon the Holy War. The Cardinal at last concluded, That the sole presence of the Grand Master was enough to stay the King, and to ascertain the Expedition into the Levant.  
But the Letters of the Cardinals did not work that effect which they expected. The Grand Master was confirmed by their own reasons, that the Expedition which they projected against the Turks, was not an Enterprise that had any solid ground: he was a little distrustful of the inconstancy of the French, and the Youth of the Conqueror. Besides, he understood, that the League against France was almost come to a period, and that the Pope, the the Venetians, the Emperor, and the King of Spain had all entered into it. He had also news at the same time, that the Turks, enraged at the death of Zizim, were setting forth a considerable Fleet, and that the Tempest threatened the Islands of the Order, with whom they had now no more occasion to deal so warily. So that his Voyage into Italy appearing useless, and his presence being necessary in the East, he thought it sufficient to congratulate Charles the 8 th'. for his Conquest of Naples, and to flatter him with that of Constantinople; assuring him, that a Prince so valiant and so fortunate as he, had need of no other Conductors than his own Courage and Fortune to bring the greatest Enterprises to pass: That the Knights were overjoyed to see him so advantageously seated for a beyond-Sea Invasion: and concluding his Letter. That he had not yet heard from the Grand Prior Blanchefort, whom he either thought to be cast away, or taken by the Pirates.  
The event showed, that the Grand Master had no such reason to be hasty in his Voyage. For Charles the 8 th'. himself speedily on a sudden leaves Naples, and bends his march for France. Whether it were, that that restlessness which is natural to the French caused him to quit what he had Conquered, or whether all Europe Leagued against him, occasioned his retreat. However, there was no discourse after that, either of any Expedition beyond-Sea, or of any Conquest of Constantinople.  
At the time that Charles absolutely laid aside all thoughts of the Holy War, Maximilian began to plot it in his mind, either out of a real Zeal, or an Envious Emulation to reproach the French in some sort, that they had not done what they boasted to do against the Turk. However, he did not think it convenient to do any thing without advising with the Grand Master: To which purpose he sent unto him Ralph of Wittenbergh, Knight of Rhodes, and Grand Prior of Germany. This new Ambassador declared at a public Audience, That Maximilian having resolved to turn all the Force of the Empire against the common Enemy, he durst not venture to proceed, till he had consulted beforehand the Cardinal Grand Master, the Oracle of the Christian Princes, the Terror of the Infidels, and Glory of the East: That he desired private Ties of Union, and an entire correspodence with him, to the end he might follow his directions in all things, which he desired him not to refuse to those that requested them sincerely.  
The Grand Master made answer publicly, That he was highly obliged to the Emperor for his Reliance and Esteem; but that he did not deserve those splendid Titles with which his Imperial Majesty had honoured him; and that though the Order had signalised themselves against the Infidels for some years since, those happy Successes were to be attributed to the valour of the Knights, and the Protection of Heaven. After which, in a discourse in private with the Ambassador, he laid open to him all the insight which he had into the Holy War, what Enterprises were to be undertaken against the Turk either by Sea or Land, and which were the most probable ways to succeed.  
The wrongs and damages which the Turks at that time did to the Vessels of the Order, did not a little help to heat the Grand Master, and cause him to close with the designs of the Emperor. Several Infidels that inhabited the Coasts of Lycia, nearest to Rhodes, put to Sea every day, and pretending themselves to be Pirates, pillaged the Isles of the Order; they also made inroads into Caria, and braved the Knights even to the very Gates of the Castle of St. Peter. The Grand Master sends out certain Vessels against these pretended Pirates, of which, some were taken, and punished to the utmost of their deserts. But these disorders continuing, he writes to the Port, to know whether the Grand Signior authorised these violences or no. The Pirates intercept the Letters, and kill the Bearers. The Grand Master being advertized thereof, sought a more sure way to write to Bajazet, and did it with all the fierceness that a just resentment could inspire him with. Now though Bajazet were, as we said before, exasperated in his heart against the Knights, and had little value for them since the death of his Brother; yet he was still unwilling to display his fury: So that he ordered the Beglerbei of Anatolia severely to punish the Criminals. He also sent to Rhodes a Prudent and Intelligent Person, to examine the Losses which the Rhodians had sustained, and to assure them, in the name of his Highness, that all should be restored with Interest.  
While the Grand Signior laboured in this manner to satisfy the Grand Master, some of the Rhodians, interested in the Goods which the Pirates had taken, secretly set forth some Vessels, and exercised several acts of Hostility upon the Coast of Lycia, pillaging Villages, taking Ships, and carrying away the very persons of the Turks. When the Grand Master was informed of it, he would not stay till the Beglerbei complained; he caused the chief in the Enterpri●… to be Arrested; and having discovered that the Knights had a share, he ●…m'd Commissioners to examine the matter, resolved to proceed against the guilty with all the rigour of the Statutes, which positively forbidden the Knights to set forth any Vessels of War without express leave.  
Thus was the Grand Master perplexed at home; abroad he was as ill satisfied with the Church of Rome; For Alexander became more proud than ever by the retreat of the French Army, had no regard to the Privileges which his Predecessor had granted to the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, touching the Collation of Benefices.  
Francis Bossolx, a Catalonian by birth, one of the most Ancient and most Illustrious Knights of his Language, had conferred upon him by the Grand Master the Priory of Catalonia. The Pope not considering either the Age, or the Merit of the Knight, conferred the same Priorate, with the Commen●…ry of Navelles, upon Lewis Borgia his Nephew. So unjust an act estranged all their hearts from the Pope, and occasioned much trouble at Rhodes. It was therefore resolved in Counsel to complain thereof in all the Courts of Christendom, and particularly to that of Spain. To which purpose Commissioners were named, and the Grand Prior of Portugal, the Bailiff of Negropont, the Commendator Villel, and the Knight de Gotor, in Quality of Extraordinary Ambassadors. The Grand Master wrote to Ferdinand a long Letter, wherein after he had set forth how much scandal and disorder the injustice of Alexander had caused in the Order, he besought his Majesty to espouse their Interests, and to mediate vigorously for them to the Pope.  
Ferdinand, who was not ignorant of the Services which the Grand Master had done the Holy See, found his complaints so just, that he presently put the Knight de Bostolx in possession of the Priory of Catalogue. He assured the Ambassadors also, that while he lived, no other Knights of Rhodes, but such as were appointed and endowed by the Grand Master, should enjoy the Revenues of his Order within his Dominions. He also wrote to the Pope at the same time, and very earnestly represented to him, That the courses he took steered directly to the ruin of the Order, wholly devoted to the Holy See. That the Zeal of the Knights was not altogether so pure and Angelical, but that they had an eye upon Temporal Recompenses, while they fought against the common Enemy of the Faith; and that both their Zeal and Courage too would cool, when they beheld the P●ice of their Labours and their sweat in the hands of Strangers and unknown Persons: So that if his Holiness did not preserve their Privileges, it might be feared, that the Rampart of Christendom might be exposed to the fury of the Infidels.  
Alexander submitted to the Reasons, or at least to the Authority of the King of Castille. He revoked the Collation which he had made in savour of his Nephew; and the Grand Master gave the Commenderie of Wovelles, with that of Baloles to Don Ferrand of Arragon, of the Royal Family, and very dear to the King of Castille, having before that created him a Knight.  
In the mean time intelligence came, that the Turks were building great Ships, and every where made great Preparations for War. Thereupon the Grand Master sent an Ambassador to Constantinople, in show, to Congratulate the Grand Signior upon his recovery from sickness, but really to penetrate into the design of those new Preparations. Bajazet kept his design very secret: but the public rumour of the Port was, that those Preparations were intended against Egypt, and was a report probable enough.  
Cairbei had been dead some months before, and the youngest of his Sons was advanced to the Throne by the subtlety of a Circassian Mamaluke, who did what he pleased at Cairo, and pretended to govern during the Minority of the Infant. But an absolute Authority in one particular Subject is always suspected and odious. The principal Nobility of the Court would not endure the new Government; so that instead of doing Homage to the new Sovereign, they revolted from him, and made Confederacies with the Turks to deprive him of his Crown. The Grand Master was informed of the rumour of the Court, but he believed it so much the less, the more the Grand Signior's Ministers desired it should be believed. He kept himself upon his Guard, and gave order for every thing. He engaged in the Service of the Order all Strangers Ships that used the Levant Seas. He hired Companies of Spanish Infantry out of Sicily, from whence he also sent for Corn in abundance. The Grand Prior Blanchefort, after a dangerous Voyage, at length arriving safe, had order to go for France to make his Compliments, and to desire aid of the Successor to Charles the VIII. who was dead of an Apoplexy, a disease fatal to great men in that. Age. Thereupon Lewis the XII. who had a great esteem for the Grand Master, kindly received the Grand Prior, and ordered two and twenty great Ships to be made ready for the service of the Knights.  
At that time, the Grand Master understanding, that Henry the VIII. King of England, laid out for the fairest Turky-Carpers that were to be got, presented him with some that were very rare. Henry became sensible of the Civilities of the Grand Master, and, in acknowledgement, sent him several excellent Pieces of Artillery, with some Horses of an extraordinary Mettle and Colour. Ladislaus King of Hungary, who, of all the Princes of Europe, was most liable to be a Prey to the Barbarians, offered the Knights of St. John two Provinces of his Dominions, to engage them all together to his Interests. But the Grand Master was not of that humour to despoil a Prince, to protect him; he refused the offers of Ladislaus, but promised him all manner of assistance.  
Blanchefort was no sooner returned to Rhodes, but the Armada of the Turks passed through the Straits of Gallipoly; the Course they steered at first caused a great fear, that the Storm threatened the Order of St. John; but soon after it was seen to fall upon the Republic of Venice. The Turks pretended, that they had suffered great wrongs in Romania, and the Morea. Besides that, the Proveditor Prioly having met a Turkish Vessel alone near Meteline, and perceiving that the Ship, in stead of loring Sail, fired at them with all her Artillery, fought and sunk her. Now though the Act of Prioli was regular, however, it incensed the Grand Signior, who loved the Captain of the Ship; for which reason he resolved a War against them: nevertheless he did not at all declare his resentment. For Zancari, whom the Senate sent to discover the inclinations of the Port, received a thousand Caresses from Bajazet. Nay, the Barbarian desired to renew his Alliance with the Republic; but he caused the Articles of the new Treaty to be written in Latin, to the end he might break it when he pleased, according to the Principles of the Mahometan Law, which suffers them not to have any regard to their words in Contracts, that are not written in their own Language.  
At the same time that the Ottoman Fleet sailed out of the Straight, the Grand Signior entered into Romania with a powerful Army, having imprisoned before all the Venetians that were at Constantinople. One part of the Turkish Cavalry was divided from the rest, and sent to harass the Countries of Zara and Dalmatia. General Grimani, who lay at Modon with the Fleet of the Republic, had implored the assistance of the Grand Master upon the first noise of the War. But he more urgently requested his aid, when he saw the Turks double the Point of the Morea. Justiniani, who commanded in Candy, joined his requests with those of Grimani; and both of them sent to Rhodes certain Letters from the Duke Barbarigo.  
The Grand Master looked on the attempt of the Turks upon the Venetians, as a violation of the Treaty of Peace made with the Order, by reason they were obliged not to molest the Christians: so that he made no scruple to secure the Venetians in the present Conjuncture. But because he would not make too great a noise, he only sent them the Spanish Infantry that was come from Sicily, and some other Foreign Troops. The Republic also at the same time sent to the King of France, to obtain of his Majesty the Vessels designed for the assistance of Rhodes. Who thereupon being then in League with the Pope and the Venetians against the Duke of Milan, gave order to his Admiral to sail away for Greece, to observe the countenances of the Turks; and in case that Rhodes were in no danger, to join with the Venetian Fleet.  
The noise of War inflamed some of the Knights, and, amongst others, the Grand Prior Blanchefort, whom the affairs of the Order detained in France during the Siege of Rhodes: And therefore to satisfy the extreme desire he had to meet with the Infidels, he desired leave to go and serve the Venetians. The Grand Master, who, before he broke with the Turk, was desirous to see the success of the War with Venice, hesitated at first upon the proposal of his Nephew; but the business being deliberated in Council, it was ordered, that the Grand Prior should have his liberty, but that he should not take along with him above thirty Knights at most. So that Blanchefort came to Modon at the same time that the French Ships arrived there. As for the Venetian Fleet, they had not so many Vessels as the Turks, But they had better men, and Ships more fit for fight. The Turks therefore avoided meeting with the Christians, minding only to husband themselves for some greater Enterprise. But the Adventurers of Rhodes desiring nothing more than a Battle, pressed Grimani not to lose the opportunity. And indeed they might have sought, found, and vanquished the Infidels, had not the over-prudence of the Venetians rendered the heat of the French unprofitable. But the Ottoman Fleet consisted of 260 Sail, a number that astonished Grimani; so that instead of engaging, he did nothing but follow them aloof off. Thereupon the Grand Prior, and the French Admiral, who had a full resolution to have signalised themselves, disgusted at the conduct of the General, quitted him with a generous disdain.  
The Infidels emboldened by the Cowardice of the Venetians, and by the retreat of the French, fiercely skirted along the Coasts of Morca, and entered into the Gulf of Lepanto, whether Bajazet was come with his Army. The City was taken almost in sight of Grimani, who had not the courage to relieve it. This untoward news very much troubled the Grand Master: but the Pestilence that increased in Rhodes much more afflicted him. He made excellent Orders to stop the Torrent of the Contagion; and to the end the Barbarians might not attempt any thing at a time so seasonable for them, he kept in pay four Galleys, Which his Nephew brought along with him from Provence; and having reinforced them with Knights and Soldiers, he commanded them to cruise about the Islands; wherein he did two good acts at one time: for he preserved the Islands from Pirates, and emptied the City of a great number of People, which might have been swept away by the Pestilence.  
Lewis the XII. who made himself Master of the Duchy of Milan, while the Turks took Lepanto, and who had a design to re-conquer the Kingdom of Naples, out of which the French had been driven, thought himself obliged to assist the Venetians in the low Ebb of their Affairs: but he was persuaded he could not do it▪ unless he acted by consent with the Grand Master. For that reason he sent to him two Heralds at Arms, who carried a Letter also to the Port, to the end that by his means they might travel safely through Turkey, and have a favourable Audience. So soon as the Heralds came to Rhodes, the Grand Master, who had made no open Breach with the Turks, wrote to Constantinople for letters of safe Conduct. To which Bajazet did not only freely consent, but gave order to the Bassa's of Lycia to go and meet the Heralds of France, and convoy them to the Port.  
Esarcho Centurino, a man of good judgement, and one of the principal inhabitants of Rhodes, departed along with them, carrying a Letter of Credence, to beseech the Grand Signior not to detain the Heralds long, and to make some small Compliment to his Highness as to the War which he made against the Venetians. Now though he Letters from Lewis were very haughty, and threatened the Ottoman Empire with the Force of France, if he did not cease to molest the Venetians, and restore all that had been taken from them. Bajazet nevertheless received them very well; nor did he send them back without good Words, and magnificent Presents.  
As the King of France had sent two Heralds by the way of Rhodes, the Grand Signior, by the same way also, sent to the King of France two Grandees of the Port, of which, the one was called Si●…nbeii, and the other Musibeii, to excuse himself likewise to the Grand Master. In some sort he endeavoured, in a large Letter, to lay the blame upon the Venetians, and gave the reasons that moved him to declare War against them. He pretended, that the Venetians had violated the Faith of Treaties, and the Right of Nations, exercising all manner of violences upon the Turks; of which, to the end he might be believed, he gave a long List. And the more to dafame the Venetians, ●e added, that the most Illustrious King of France knew well enough what wrongs they had done the French, when being only Duke of Orleans, he accompanied Charles the 8 th'. to the Conquest of Naples, when they proffered him ten ducats for every Soldier to invade Italy; alleging, that if they did not stop the progress of the French Arms, they would at length assail the Ottoman Empire. All this the Grand Signior wrote to justify himself; but mentioned not a word how Lodowic Sforza, finding the King of France in League with the Venetians against him, had invited the Ottoman Arms against them; aggravating to the Port, that Lewis the XII. would certainly put in execution, what Charles the VIII. designed, for the Conquest of Milan and Naples.  
In the mean time, a Ship of Rhodes being bound from thence to he Coast of Egypt, was attacked by a Turkish Gallion near ro Alexandria. The Knights who were in the Ship defended themselves stoutly, and had reduced the Turk to the last extremity; but when the Ship were just upon the point of yielding, another Vessel, well armed, came to her relief; so that the Knights were forced to quit her. They made for Alexandria, and putting up the Souldan's Colours, entered the Port. But the Admiral of Alexandria, a perfidious Brute, without any regard either to the Peace and Laws of Nations, made the Knight's Prisoners, and sent them to Cairo, with all the Christians that were in the Ship.  
The Grand Master conjectured, by the attempt of the Gallion, that the Turks had no intentions any longer to keep fair with the Order. However, he complained to the Sultan of the Admiral's behaviour, and that in high terms too, as of a violence insupportable. The Sultan understanding, that such sharp complaints were as good as threats, and that he that made them would be as good as his word, disowned the Admiral, and released the Prisoners.  
But the Grand Signior's proceed were far different. For all his Civilities to the Grand Master, and his Embassy to the Court of France, did not hinder the Infidels from continuing the War against the Venetians, nor from invading Italy. Twelve thousand spahis entered into Friuli, through uncouth and difficult passages; and putting all to Fire and Sword, carried away above 20000 Christians into Slavery. The Pope, who minded nothing but the advancement of his Family, till then had only been a Spectator of the War; but now he began to think himself concerned, when he saw the Enemy at his Gates. And besides that his own Interest engaged him to act, he thought himself obliged in Honour to wipe off those reproaches, which the death of Zizim had thrown upon him, and to repair, by some notable action, what had been irregular in his Government. Thereupon he undertook, with all the heat imaginable, to unite the Christian Princes, that he might put a stop to the incursions of the Barbarians.  
Nor was his diligence unsuccessful. The Kings of Castille, Portugal, and Hungary declared themselves first of all. Maximilian, whom the Wars of Gelder's and Switzerland had diverted from the Turkish War, entered into this Holy League with Lovis the 12 th'. when their differences about Milan were ended, by the Marriage of the King's Daughter with the Emperor's Son.  
The Grand Master convinced more than ever of the Infidelity of the Grand Signior, and not believing himself obliged to have any more respect for them, who had no more for him, Leagued himself with the Croisadoed Princes. And now Forces are raising all over Europe; Ships making ready, Money gathering together in all places; and the bloody Crosses that fell from Heaven in Germany, which Maximilian himself saw, seemed to portend a happy success. The Turks take the Alarm at these Prepartions and Prodigies; though that which most affrighted them was the choice that was made of the Generalissimo of the League.  
Alexander, who, among his wicked qualities, had some good ones, and who had a very ready wit, bethought himself, that to bring about so important an Expedition, nothing could be more available than the choice of an Experienced Captain, and such a one as should be acceptable to all the Princes. He cast his eye upon the Grand Master D'Aubusson, and proposed him in a full Consistory, after he had made him a large Encomium. All the Cardinals applauded the Pope's Proposition. However, Alexander, before he made the Choice public, resolved to try the Inclination of the Grand Master. To this end he wrote to him in a very obliging style, nevertheless with a chargeable condition in his Brief, that the Order, during the time that the Grand Master should continue General, should keep out at Sea four Galleys, and four Barks, well appointed, for the Service of the League.  
The Grand Master, who loved to act at his own liberty, pondered upon the Condition; and it may be his modesty had made use of this pretence, to rid himself of an Employment, which he thought above him, if the Council had not advised him to accept of the Condition at any rate whatever, and that the Letters of several Cardinals his Friends had not at length brought him to an absolute determination. Thereupon he wrote to his Holiness, That with all acknowledgement and humble bashfulness he was willing to take upon him the Charge, with which he was pleased to honour him: And he sent a very ample Procuration, as to this Affair, to the Commander of Avignon, than Vice-Procurator-General of the Order in the Court of Rome.  
The Pope, not doubting but that his Proposal would be as acceptable to the Princes, as it was to the Cardinals, gave them advice of his choice, so soon as he had received the Grand Master's Answer. All the Courts of Christendom applauded so wise a Choice; and this one Action did Alexander so much honour, that his Reputation was much repaired thereby. Thereupon before all the Ambassadors of the Confederate Princes, he publicly declared the Grand Master D'Aubusson, Captain-General of the Croisado.  
After which, his Holiness, by a Solemn Brief, filled with his Praises, gave him information of it. The Purport of the Brief was. That the Princes had approved the Choice which he had made of his Person; That they were very readily disposed to obey him; and that his Experience, Valour, and Piety, gave them confident hopes of Victory. The Pope added, That he was resolved to go to the War himself, notwithstanding his Age, resolved to partake with the Grand Master in all the Labours of a Christian Warfare, and to lay down his life, if occasion should be, to render the Expedition successful. He sent word, That there were 15 Galleys, which he had expressly caused to be made ready; and that the Bishop of Tivoly had orders to send them away, so soon as they were fitted out. He also wrote him word, that he had given notice to the Princes by their Ambassadors, that his intention was, that they and all their Forces should render to him the same Honour, and the same Obedience, as to the Head of the Church. Exhorting him him at length to defend the Faith upon this occasion, with the same Courage and Virtue, with which alone he had defended it, when he forced Mahomet to raise his Siege from before Rhodes.  
Lewis the XII. would not stay to acknowledge him till he was publicly proclaimed at Rome; but so soon as he understood the Pope's intentions, he wrote to the Grand Master, That being willing to contribute to the Successes of so noble an Expedition, notwithstanding the Affairs he had in Italy, he was setting forth a Navy Royal, and that knowing his Prudence and long Experience in the Wars against the Turk, he had ordered his Admiral, Philip de Cleves Ruvesteine, to follow his Counsels in all things, and to Act by his Instructions.  
The Praises and Applauses which the Pope and the King of France gave him, did but redouble the zeal and diligence of the Grand Master: So that being now acknowledged the Captain of such a famous Enterprise, his whole study was, how to bring it to good issue. The Summer being now past, and no Prince's Fleet appearing; or if they had appeared, the Season being now past for any considerable Action, his first consideration was to settle a Bank for the payment of such Forces as should arrive, that they might not think of returning for want of Money. For he knew well, that only Money could keep Soldiers together idle in the Levant. To this purpose he sent to the Pope and the King of France intelligent Knights, to let them understand, that without that precaution, there was nothing to be done against the Turk. That if the Soldiers of the League came not forthwith, they would not be in a condition for action the next Season; and that, if being once arrived, they should return for want of subsistence, the common Enemy would take advantage of their Retreat. He let them further know, That while the Forces of the Confederate Princes attacked the Turk by Sea, it was necessary that the King of Hungary should assail him by Land to make a diversion.  
But in regard the safety of Christendom, in some measure, depended upon the safety of Rhodes, he was of opinion, that the Ships belonging to the Order should not distance themselves any farther than Cape Malio. He also thought it necessary, that the Fleet of the Confederate Princes should not come to Rhodes, to spare them the labour of returning back to the Morea, and Rhodes the inconvenience of being eaten out by so many people. Upon which consideration it was resolved to send before to Ravestein, to desire him to stay at Cape St. Angelo, there to attend till the Master came himself to bring them into some good Harbour.  
Ravestein was already entered into the Archepelago, and steered directly to the Island of Metelin, to signalise himself immediately by some notable action. But in regard he hated Dependency, and was covetous of all the Honour to himself, so far was he from following the Orders of the Grand Master, that not vouchsafing to follow his Counsel, he only sent to invite him to come and join with him. However, though this seemed a very disobliging act of Ravestein, yet the Grand Master more resented the ill-timing of the Enterprise, than the ill-behaviour of Ravestein, knowing well it was contrary to the King's Pleasure, and that the wills of Princes are usually ill obeyed, when those that are employed take upon them to follow their own inclinations. And indeed this Bad beginning of the League, created an ill opinion of the Event. Nor did the slowness of the Pope less trouble him, than the forwardness of the French. The fifteen Galleys that were to appear with the first, were not to be heard of; neither was there any news of the Bishop of Tivoli, who had order to conduct them.  
How zealous soever the Grand Master was to advance the Affairs of the Crusade, he could not determine with himself to join with the French before the arrival of the Pope's Fleet. He considered, that having no Instructions from his Holiness touching the Duties of his Office, it behoved him not to begin the Exercise of it. He considered also, that in difficulties which might happen, the other Captains would be subject to dispute his power, when they found the Galleys of his Holiness absent. To avoid all these inconveniences, he pressed the Pope to keep his word, representing to him with an extraordinary respect and zeal mixed together, that his Holiness being the Chief, and Soul of the Enterprise, there was nothing to be done without him. That the Fleets of the Christian Princes would come in vain into the Levant, if he did not appear in the head of them. That as for his part, he desired only to acquit himself of the Charge wherewith he had been pleased to honour him, as having all his life-time only sought a fair opportunity to ruin the Mahometan Puissance.  
Ravestein, who had unadvisedly engaged himself in the Siege of Metelin, and began to see his fault, endeavoured all he could to re-fix himself in the good opinion of the Grand Master, and to oblige him to come to his relief: He sent to him by the Knight de Gavaston, who was come to him on the behalf of the Order, that the Venetians having drawn him to Meteline before the arrival of the Knight, he could not avoid besieging the City. That at first he had raised a Battery, which had no success, as being planted against the strongest part of the Wall; but that having changed his Battery, the Canon wrought wonders; but that he could not determine with himself to make a general Onset without him; believing withal, that the Event of the Storm would not prove successful, unless the Knights of Rhodes had their share. That the Venetians had thirty Galleys before Meteline, not counting his. That for the Pope's Galleys, they were not to be expected; nor did he know where his Holiness should have fifteen; for that being at Naples, he knew he had but two, which the Duke of Valentinois made use of against the Prince of Piombino; and that he could not learn that he had made any Preparations against the Turk; concluding at last, that he acknowledged the Grand Master for General of the Christian Fleet, and that he would not proceed any more without his Orders.  
The Grand Master hearing no news of the Pope's fifteen Galleys, and not enduring that any thing should be acted against the Turk, wherein he had not his share, resolved to sacrifice his Resentments to his Honour, and the Interests of the Church. He thought himself obliged also, for the Reputation of the Arms of France, not to desert Ravestein, what ever reason he had to be displeased with him. Therefore that he might act with Honour, besides the four Galleys and four Barks which he was to set forth by the Articles of the League, he resolved to take along with him the Great Ship belonging to the Order, twelve great Galliots, several Brigantines, several Foists, with some Italian and Catalonian Vessels which he had hired.  
At his departure, he left very good Orders behind him; for having declared the Grand Commander Cossa his Lieutenant to govern with the Council, he prescribed him every week to give public Audience to the People: and in case any of the Knights should withstand him, to proceed against them according to the Forms and Rigour of the Statutes. The management of the Treasure, for a time, he committed to the care of the Admiral; and particularly charged the Grand Marshal to be exact in doing Justice to the Knights.  
For the security of Rhodes, he gave order, that Guards should be kept in all the Posts of the Languages, as if the place were Besieged; and he himself named such and such Knights to ride their Rounds about the Island, to hinder the Landing of the Barbarians.  
The Council, in requital, to show the particular esteem which they had for the Grand Master, ordered, That all the Knights that accompanied him should enjoy the privileges of Residence, as if present at Rhodes: That all Elections of Priors and Bailiffs should surcease in his absence, that he might deliberate upon such Affairs as should present themselves, and that his Decrees should be of the same force and authority, as if issued out of his Palace: and that in regard a great number of Knights were to attend the Grand Master, it was ordained, that after their departure, no Knight should stir out of the Island, but upon the urgent affairs of the Order.  
Things being thus settled, and twelve Vessels of the Fleet being gone before to stay for the Knights at Lango, the Grand Master embarked the 21 of November, attended to the Sea by a great throng of People, who could not but let fall tears at his departure, especially when they saw him threatened by a rising Tempest ere he was out of sight.  
His impatience to be at the assault of Meteline, caused him to make all the haste imaginable. Scarcely had he reached Lango, when the Knight Baldovin, whom he had sent before to advertise the French and Venetians of his coming, brought him news that the Siege was raised; at the same time delivering him Letters from Ravestein and Pesaro. Ravestein signified to him in a few words, That the Siege of Meteline being an Enterprise much more difficult, than it had seemed to be to men to very good judgement, he thought fit to leave it off. That the Season being far spent, his care was how to be gone before it grew worse, which would be in two days at farthest, with his good leave. The Letter from Pesaro was larger, and more rational; the effect whereof was, That whereas Ravestein had undertaken the Siege without advising with the Venetians, he had also raised it of his own head: That it was no wonder, that an Enterprise so ill managed should have no better success. That the French preparing for home, there was no likelihood that the Venetians should stay at Meteline. That they were making to Scio; and that if it were his pleasure they should join with the Knights, they were ready to do what he should think best for the good of Christendom. Pesaro added, that there was no heed to be given to the Pope's Promise, for that his Fifteen Galleys were only in Idea. That the Spanish Fleet was about Taranto; and that the Portugal Fleet having gained Corsu, was returned home, notwithstanding all the entreaties of the Venetians, pretending they c u●d not stay long out in bad weather in those Seas.  
The Grand Master was more perplexed at the ill success of the Enterprise of Meteline, then surprised at it. But believing that the return of the French Fleet would do more harm to the Affairs of the League, than the raising of the Siege, he dispatched away a Foist to Naxi, by which the French were to pass, desiring Ravestein not to return till they had discoursed together. He sent another to Scio, to desire the Venetians to meet him at Naxi, and to let them know, that he had made great Preparations for their assistance; that he had left Rhodes in a bad Season, and almost contrary to the advice of his Council: That the misfortune of Meteline was not past recovery, and that they might return to the Siege with more success, provided the French had not lost their courage. He desired Pesaro to stay Ravenstein, at what rate soever, if they were yet together, or earnestly to write to him, if they were parted.  
The Rhodian Fleet set sail from Lango presently after the Foists, and, in spite of contrary Winds, arrived at length before Naxi. But Ravensteins' impatience to quit the Levant, would not permit him to stay for the Knights. He set sail precisely two days after he had wrote to the Grand Master, according to the purport of his Letter, the Prayers of the Venetians, the Honour of France, nor his own, being able to stop him.  
The Grand Master had not been so well appeased at the departure of the French, had he not met the Venetians in sight of the Island. After mutual Salutes of both Fleets, Pesaro came aboard the Grand Master, where after some deliberation upon the present state of Affairs, they concluded together, to write to all the Princes of the Crusade, to engage them to let their Fleets be ready against the Spring. They also agreed, that the true way to ruin the Turk, was not to make any attempts upon the Islands of the Archipelago, the loss of which would do him but little harm; but to force the Dardanels, and besiege Gallipoli with a potent Army; then to make up directly to Constantinople, and fire the Fleet that usually road in the Sea of Marmora; which the Grand Master would undertake to do, provided that Ladislaus performed his part upon Hungary side▪ This being the condition of Affairs at that time, the Grand Master took his leave of Pesaro, and set sail for Rhodes, three of the Venetian Galleys attending him out of respect. The Rhodians, who did not expect his Return so soon, were pleasingly surprised at it; yet easily brooked the misfortune that restored them their Grand Master.  
No sooner was he arrived, but he had intelligence, that several Turkey Merchants Ships, very richly laden, were in the Seas of Syria and Egypt homeward bound. The Council was of opinion, that such a Booty was not to be let slip, but that they should take this opportunity absolutely to break with the Port. Thereupon the Grand Master commanded out seven Galleys, and some Boats, to waylay them. The Knight Diomedes de Villaragut, Castellan of Emposta, was named Admiral of the Squadron. He put to Sea, and took the Ships; so that the Prize almost recompensed the Expenses which the Knights had been at.  
But for all this small success, the Master was not a little troubled at the slowness of the Princes. He was sensibly afflicted to see the League half broken; and therefore to renew it again, he sent Ambassadors to all the Christian Courts: Who were no sooner departed, but Ambassadors arrived from Ladislaus King of Hungary; who, after they had congratulated the Grand Master as General of the League, assured him, that the Hungarian Army was in readiness; and therefore desired him to engage the Grand Caraman, the Sultan of Egypt, but, above all, the King of Persia, to take up Arms against the Turk. The Resolutions of Ladislaus extremely rejoiced the Grand Master; but the Revolutions then happening in Persia somewhat qualified his joy.  
Jacup the Son of Vssum Cassan, succeeding his Father in the Kingdom of Persia, was afraid lest Arduel, his Cousin, should one day usurp the Crown; and his fear was upon good grounds. Arduel publicly gave out, that Ali was the true Interpreter of the Law; and thereby he almost overthrew Mahumetism. The People, who are always disposed to receive Novelties, and are easily governed by them that know how to tickle their fancies with Religion, declared themselves for the Doctrine of Arduel. Thereupon Jacup thought the favour of the People to be a sufficient crime for which to put him to death, and rid himself of him without any noise. And a little while after he gave the same order for Ishmael the Son of Arduel. That order of the King of Persia was not so secret, but Ishmael had notice of it. Upon which, he fled towards the Caspian Sea, to a Prince that was one of his Friends, and there immediately made a public Profession of what his Father had taught him. His comely Presence and his Eloquence, soon begat him a high esteem among those Barbarous Nations, even to be regarded as a kind of Deity; for which reason they gave him the name of Sophi, or Wise. He dextrously kept up so fair a Reputation, and believing it lawful for him to do any thing to obtain a Crown, he got the King of Persia to be put to death, by the very means of the Queen herself, who hated her Husband, and loved Ishmael. After the death of Jacup, Ishmael returned into Persia, with a great number of his followers, who looked upon him as a Prophet sent by God: The most part of the Persians took his part, so that having got together a good arm, he marched against Alvant, ●ho had taken possession of the ●…rone, as being the eldest Son of ●…cup. The new King was driven first from his City, then defeated in 〈◊〉 great Battle, and slain by Ishmael's own hand. This fatal news quite dampt the courage of Alvant's Brother, whose name was Maracatam, and lay at Babylon with a numerous Army. So that in stead of marching against Ishmael, he fled to the Mountains, and abandoned the Throne that belonged to him to save his life. Thus the Usurper became the Master; and though all the Kingdom had not yet submitted to his Sceptre, he caused himself to be called King of Persia.  
These Revolutions appeared no way favourable to the King of Hungary, nor to the intentions of the Grand Master. There was no probability that Ishmael Sophi would engage in the Affairs of the League, while Persia was not yet at Peace within itself, and all those accidents were still to be feared that might ruin a new Dominion, unjust and unsettled; besides, that th● Successes of Ishmael naturally bre● suspicions in the King of Caramania's breast. Which reasons would not permit him to enterprise against the Turks, when he had enough to do to secure himself at home. Nor was the Sultan of Egypt in a better condition to favour the Princes of the Crusade; for besides that he was embroiled in the Domestic Dissensions of his own Court, he feared the victorious Arms of Ishmael, who, by the advice given him by Attula Turcoman, threatened to begin his Conquests with those of Syria and Egypt, when he had settled himself in Persia. Nevertheless, when the Grand Master better considered, he bethought himself, that the Troubles of Persia would ●e no way disadvantageous to the enterprise of the Christians; for ●hat the Turk alarmed with the Success of his Victorious Neighbour ●nd En my, would be obliged to ●…ep very numerous Armies upon ●…e Fronteers of Turkey; and that ●…ng thereby much weakened, he ●…ght be the easier vanquished at ●…me.  
The noise of the League no less perplexed Bajazet, than the Revo●…tions of Persia. Understanding therefore that the Grand Master was the Head and Soul of the Enterprise, he bethought himself of dealing with him, by the means of Sultan Corcut, the best beloved of all his Sons, to whom he had given the Government of Anatolia. Corcut being well instructed by the Ministers of the Port what part he was to act, sent very rich Presents to the Grand Master, with a most obliging Letter, wherein he requested his friendship; and conjured him, after a thousand offers of his services, that they might live together in Amity and good Correspondence, and that there might be a freedom of Trade between each others Subjects. He added, that his Father had given him all power, in reference to a peace, and that he was ready to do what ever the Knights desired. But these fair words could not dazzle the Grand Master. He knew by the Turks themselves, who were his Spies, that the famous Pirate Camali, who had fitted out several Vessels at Gallipoli for the service of Bajazet, was just ready to set Sail out of the Straits with above fifty men of War, to attack the Isles that belonged to the Order. So that without entering into any further Negotiation, he frankly declared, That being nominated General of the League by the Pope, he could not forsake the Common Cause, nor could hearken to any Peace which the Grand Signior would not make with all the Princes of Christendom, as well as with the Knights of Rhodes.  
The Grand Master declared himself upon this point so much the more boldly, because he knew, that seven of the Pope's Galleys were jovned to the Venetian Armado at the Island of Cerigo, and that his Holiness was setting out thirteen more, the care of which he had given to the Knight Fabricio de Caretta, who was then at Genoa. This news was brought to Rhodes by an Envoy of the Bishop of Baffo, under whose Conduct the Galleys set Sail, and who had also in Charge a Brief from the Pope to be delivered to the Grand Ma●…er. This Brief contained many Applauses of the Grand Master's Actions, and many Excuses of the Pope's Neglect: That he had the most sincere intentions in the world, but that the misfortunes of the times would not suffer him to keep his word; that he would repair what was passed with advantage, and send Twenty Galleys instead of Fifteen.  
But to return to the Sophi. He had no sooner established his Throne, partly by fair, partly by foul means, but he resolved to extend his Conquests. Instead of advancing against Egypt, as he intended, he fell into Armenia with fourscore thousand fight men, drawn thither by the Neighbourhood, and the hatred which he bore the Turks. In this Expedition, Ishmael soon mastered Armenia, after he had cut in pieces above twenty thousand men. Bajazet alarmed by the Success of the Conqueror, gathered all his Forces together to defend himself; but he could not believe himself able to resist so potent an Enemy, while he was at odds with the Christians. For that reason he made Propositions of Peace to the Grand Master and the Republic of Venice.  
The Grand Master, who had intelligence of every thing, and in particular knew the Consternation of the Grand Signior, failed not to give notice of it to the Pope, that never a fairer opportunity offered itself to ruin the Common Enemy: That Bajazet was obliged to go in Person against the Persian, for want of a Bassa experienced in Military Affairs, in whom he could absolutely confide: That the Sophi, a liberal and affable Prince, drew to his Party the Militia of the Grand Signior: That there was no likelihood of any accord between Persia and Turkey, in regard a Conqueror hates nothing more than Peace. Therefore he besought his Holiness not to neglect the opportunity that Providence presented. But the Commotions in Italy rendered all these Remonstrances void. For while the Turks and Persians make War one against another, the French and Spaniards break the Peace which they had made. They had contracted an Alliance against Frederick of Naples, who succeeded Ferdinand his Nephew, and had got possession of his Dominions by force of Arms. But Ambition soon divided them, which it had united. Lewis the XII. and Ferdinand King of Castille, became jealous each of other; neither could endure a Competitor nor a Companion, both of them claim the whole Kingdom which they had parted betwixt them. And the differences of their Ministers, touching the limits of their common Conquests serving for a pretence, occasioned a most bloody War, that filled all Italy with horror and confusion.  
The Bishop of Baffo, who had joined himself with the Fleet of the Venetians, had intelligence of the Rupture between the two Crowns, at what time the Naval Army of the Venetians had taken the Island of Santa Maura from the Turk, with the assistance of a Squadron of Knights which the Grand Master sent them, and some Galleys of a French Captain, called Pray Jan de Bidoux, a very understanding Seaman, and a very stout Soldier. Presently the Bishop gave a shrewd guess at the ill success of the League by the state of affairs in Italy, and, according to his Instructions, he gave notice to the Grand Master, That new divisions hindered his Holiness from being exact to his word. He added, That of Twenty Galleys promised by the Holy See, he had received but Thirteen; That he could not keep them above four months, without express command from the Pope; which were almost expired, and most certainly would not be prolonged; That the French Fleet would not come at all; That Captain Pré Jan de Bidoux was gone from St. Maura upon the first intelligence of the Broils between France and Spain; That the Venetians being resolved to fortify St. Maura, could not spare their Fleet any farther; so that Winter being at hand, he did not believe that the Confederate Princes would undertake any thing against the Turk this year.  
However, the eager longing which the Grand Master had to see the League renewed, and his joy for the taking Santa Maura, made him believe, that the flames of War between the French and Spaniards might be as easily extinguished as they were kind●ed; upon this consideration he resolved not to give off so. So that without taking any notice of the Bishop of Baffo's advice, he fell again to writing to the Pope. After he had congratulated the Pope for the Success of his Galleys in the taking Santa Manra, he besought him to keep them still in readiness, and to excite the Venetians to prepare the most powerful Armado they could. He besought him to endeavour the reconciliation of the two Kings, and to make use of all his Art in that particular. He pressed with new vehemency the Emperor, and other Kings, particularly the King of England, who was very powerful at Sea, and who was very zealous for the Interests of the Church. After which, committing the rest into the hands of Providence, he set himself to regulate the Customs both of the People, and the Knights.  
In the first place, understanding, that the Jews that dwelled in Rhodes, led a very scandalous life, and that their bad example was the occasion of many sins committed in the City, he took up a resolution to expel them. Having assembled a Council for this effect, he set forth, in a long discourse, all the evil that the Trade of the Jews might produce among the Faithful; and that an Order particularly consecrated to the defence of Christendom, aught to abhor a Nation which was so much the Enemy of Christ himself. Then he came in particular to the Jews of Rhodes, whom the Prodigies of the last Siege, and those upon the Wall, had hardened the more.  
The Grand Master's judgement was approved in Council, and they all decreed with one accord, that the Jews should departed the Island, and all the Territories of the Order, within fifty days. They were also forbidden to settle in the East, lest they should prove spies to the Turks: and all that was permitted them, was, to put off their Goods in forty days. But all sorts of Liberty and privileges were offered, on the other side, to those that would turn christian's. As for their little Children, it was decreed, that they should be Baptised whether their Parents would or no. And the Decree of Council was drawn in express terms, That since it was the opinion of all Divines and Canonists, that the Jews were the Slaves of the Christian Princes, they had not the Right nor Jurisdiction of Parents over their Children. So that the Grand Master might dispose of them for the good of Christendom, and the Salvation of their Souls. Thereupon according to the power of the Laws, the Jews Children were Baptised. And lest they should renounce their Christianity when they came to years of discretion, the Grand Master kept them at Rhodes, and brought them up at the public Charge, in some measure doing the Duty and Office of a Father to them.  
After this, the Grand Master applied himself to examine the Statutes of the Order, which the Vicechancellor Caoursin had reduced into a Method some years before. Some he cancelled that were grow nout of use, the observation whereof did more harm then good, serving only to multiply Quarrels and Suits of Law. Others he made new, according to the Constitution of the present Time. For seeing how far the Impiety and Luxury of the Knights had extended itself, who lived more like Seculars and Libertines, than men in Holy Orders, he ordained, That whosoever should swear by, or blaspheme the Name of God, or speak a word to the dishonour of the Virgin Mary, or the Saints, for the first fault should undergo the punishment of 
* Fast forty days, and be whipped twice a week before the High Altar.  Lent; for the second, two months' imprisonment in the Castle; and for the third, be put in the public Prison during the pleasure of the Grand Master and the Council; and that they that were put into these Prisons, should lose three years' privilege of Precedency.  
He also forbade, that the Knights should habit themselves like other people of the world, or wear any thing that had the least semblance of Gallantry or Vanity. He ordered particularly, that their habits should be plain, and of one colour; and that if any Knight disobeyed this Order, besides the punishment of the Quarantine, his Habit should be confiscate to the Public Treasury.  
But though he loved Modesty in Habit, he was Magnificent in all things that concerned the Ornament and Beautifying of the Church; as, the stately Tapestries, Statues of Silver, Crosses of Gold, Chalices, and Image-Chariots of Malta, engraven with his Arms for the most part, testify to this day.  
While he employed himself in this manner, in expectation of his Embassy & Letters in reference to the League, the Spaniards, who had for their Captain in the Kingdom of Naples Alexander Cordova, surnamed the Great Captain, made most cruel War against the French, and both Parties grew so violent one against another, that there was no likelihood of Peace. The Pope, instead of labouring an accommodation and reconcilement between the two Nations, as the Grand Master had desired him, openly favoured the Spaniards, and fed the sire which he ought to have extinguished. Besides, he had no other thoughts in his head, but how to Aggrandise Cesar Borgia his Son, Duke of Valentinois, whom he passionately loved so far, as to dare any thing, and think any thing lawful for his advancement and enrichment. But that which directly ruin'd the Crusade, was this, That the Venetians, tired with the War, made Peace with the Turks, after several private Negotiations, wherein the Knights of Rhodes were not taken notice of in the least. By this Peace, the Venetians restored the Island of Santa Maura, which Pesara had fortified at great Expenses; and the Grand Signior engaged himself to restore what he had taken from the Venetian Merchants, from the beginning of the War. Ladislaus King of Hungary soon followed the example of the Republic, making an agreement, though not very Honourable, with Bajazet. These sad tidings pierced the very heart of the Grand Master; and to add to his affliction, he understood at the same time, that his Holiness had conferred Commanderies of the Order upon Secular Persons, and that he had promised the Priory of Castille to Don Henry of Toledo. Considering neither the Privileges of Innocent the VIII. the Nature of the Revenues of the Order, nor the Dignity of the Generalissimo of the League, whom he had elected himself.  
The Grand Master so highly resented such irregular proceed, that he wrote to the Pope; and without swerving from that respect which he owed to the Chief of the Church, and the Vicar of Christ, he told Alexander his own, as far as a real Zeal could inspire him. But Alexander taking little notice of his Complaints, continued his affronts and injuries to the Order, and that with so much the more Liberty, believing, that now the Venetians had made Peace with the Turks, he should have no more need of the Knights.  
The League thus broken off, and the proceed of the Pope, b ought the Grand Master into a deep Melancholy, that wasted him by degrees, and at length cast him into a mortal distemper. He began to fall ill the Eeve of St. John Baptists day. But then he would not disclose that he ailed any thing, and was present at the Bonfires, and at the public Annual Ceremonies before the Castle, for which there are extraordinary preparations in Honour of the Patron of the Order. He also went in state to Church upon the Festival day; and concealing his ill disposition of body, performed all the Duties of a true Christian.  
This striving against his Distemper out of Piety, redoubled the force of the disease; so that in two days he fell so ill, that the Physicians at first despaired of his life: nevertheless they were willing to try what Art could do. But the Grand Master, who perceived himself near his end, slighted his own preservation, and told them with a smile, That never having taken Physic, it was dangerous for him to begin at his years. However, he submitted to the entreaties of his Nephew, and the reasons of the Physicians, notwithstanding his own natural reluctancy.  
The Grand Master's sickness, put all the City into a Consternation. The Inhabitants, like people in despair, ran to the Castle, and from the Castle to the Churches, to implore of God the life of their Prince. The whole City was filled with Vows. Prayers, and Processions. But his sickness increasing more and more, he received the Sacrament of the Church with a lively Faith, and an ardent Devotion, which both edified and pierced the hearts of all that stood by. After that, he called all the Knights of the Council, and recollecting all the strength he had left; My dear Brethren, said he, I have no more than one short moment to live; therefore before I leave you, take it not amiss that I exhort you, to choose a Person more worthy than myself to succeed in my Place; and that I conjure ye also to expend all your Honour in a generous defence of the Faith, and in the observation of the Rules of the Order. This is the favour that I beg of you as a dying man. Hardly had he strength enough to pronounce the last words; nor did he utter above two or three words more, to comfort the Knights, that shed tears round about his bed. At length he gave them his Benediction as his Children; and then lying quietly for some time, with his eyes sometimes lifted up to Heaven, sometimes fixed upon the Crucifix, he seemed to be in a kind of discourse with God, till he sweetly and mildly yielded up his last breath. 
Anno 1503.  At the very moment of his expiration, the Knights made so loud a noise of lamentation, as easily made known his death to the People, assembled in the Palace. Then was their sorrow soon expressed by their tears and wail, and after that by a deep silence, as usually happens in extreme afflictions.  
Thus died Peter D'Aubusson, Grand Master of Rhodes, Cardinal of St. Adrian, Legate of the Holy See in Asia, and nominated Generalissimo of the Holy League. He was aged about fourscore years, and he had governed the Order above twenty seven.  
So soon as grief would permit the Knights to come to themselves, they made it their business to render to the dead their last duties with all the Magnificence imaginable. He was exposed upon a Noble Bed of State. Nor did the Ghastliness of death deprive him of that sweet and amiable Majesty, that always appeared in his countenance when alive. Three Knights stood at the Bed's head in Mourning, one holding the Cardinal's Cap, another the Legates Cross, and the third the Standard of Generalissimo. Four other Knights held each of them a Banner, whereon were embroidered the Arms of the Order, and those of D'Aubusson. On each side of him stood two Altars, dressed up with Canopies over each; on the one was laid the Dalmatick Gown, the Mitre, and all the Ornaments proper for a Cardinal Deacon. On the other lay the Casque, Corslet, Half-Pike and Sword, which the Grand Master made use of upon the day of the Grand Assault; together with his , all stained with his own and the blood of the Barbarians. Two hundred Knights attended besides, all in deep mourning. The People that crowded to this fatal Spectacle, could not forbear weeping bitterly; they cried out, They had lost their Father; and then kissed his hands to ease their grief, and took their last leaves.  
His Obsequies were performed the next day following, which the public Grief contributed to render more solemn, than all the Funeral Pomp. He was carried to the Church upon the shoulders of the principal Grand-Crosses, and Interred in the Chapel he himself had built.  
The first General Chapter that was held at Rhodes under Emery D'Amboise, his Successor, decreed. That in Honour of the Memory of the Grand Master D'Aubusson, the Order should, at the Expense of the Public Treasury, erect him a Magnificent Tomb in Brass; and that an Epitaph should be Engraved upon it, reciting the most Illustrious Actions of his Life. The Historians of the Order of St. John do not mention this Epigram, and with all the diligence I have used, I could never hear any thing more of it. However, the Encomiums which Popes, Princes, and Historians have given the famous Peter D'Aubusson, may well supply the place of that Epitaph. Sixtus the iv and Innocent the VIII. affirm in their Briefs, that the Holy See was infinitely obliged to him, and that they could not sufficiently acknowledge the Services he had done the Faithful, in putting a stop, by his cares, and with the price of his own blood, to the Conquests of Mahomet the Second, the most Formidable Enemy of Christendom. Alexander the Sixth confessed, That there was in the Grand Master a Sincere Faith, an Heroic Valour, an Exquisite Prudence, and a most perfect Experience in all things that concerned the War against the Turks. The Emperor Maximilian, Ferdinand of Castille, and Mathias Corvin King of Hungary, often called him in their Letters, The Tamer of the Ottomans, and the Support of the Church. Caoursin calls him, The Father of his Country, the Protector of the Unfortunate, and the Invincible Defender of Rhodes. Victorellus, in his Additions to C. Ciaconius, says, That all was great in him, his Wit, his Courage, and his Piety: That being invested with the Sacred Purple, he was never the more remiss in Military Duties; and that he had performed at one time Actions worthy of a Holy Cardinal, and a Generous Soldier. The same Author adds. That the Magnanimous D'Aubusson, in all the Conduct of his Life, had no other aim, then only the Glory of God, and Honour of his Order; That he governed his Subjects with as much Lenity as Justice; and that his Paternal Goodness was principally eminent towards the Poor. The Ecclesiastical History speaks of him as of a most admirable Person, and one that merited all manner of Applause. In short, the History of the Knights of St. John extols him above all the Grand Masters, equals him to the Hero's of Ancient times, and propounds him as a Model to all the Princes of Christendom.   

A CONTINUATION Of the HISTORY OF RHODES, Under the Government of Philip de Villiers Lisle Adam, Containing the Siege of Solyman the Magnificent, no less famous than that Mahomet the II.  
UPon the death of Peter D'Aubusson, Emery D'Amboise, Prior of France, then absent, was chosen in his place; in whose time, though Bajazet swore to besiege Rhodes with a puissant Army, yet he attempted nothing. He was a Prince, virtuous, valiant, charitable, and successful in his Enterpizes; so that under his Government the Knights performed several notable Exploits to the honour of the Order, and won among the rest that famous Victory at Sea from the Sultan of Egypt, signalised by the death of the Sultan s Nephew who commanded the Fleet. To Emery D'Amboise succeeded, by a fair Election, Guy de Blanchefort Prior of Auvergne. In his time Sultan Selim having caused his Father Bajazet to be strangled, and put to death Achmac and Corcutt, his, two Brothers, with their Wives and Children, possessed himself of the Empire; wherein he was no sooner settl d, but he designed to lay siege to Rhodes. The Report whereof alarmed the Grand Master to make preparations for his defence; wherein he proceeded as far as could be expected, considering the short time of his Government; for in less than a year he died, and left his place to be supplied by the Admiral de Carretta, who the first thing he did, made a League with Ishmael Sophi the King of Persia against Selim. For understanding that the Turk still continued his vast preparations for War, he thought it was but a piece of common Providence to provide for himself. But the Storm fell upon the Sultan of Egypt, who being overthrown in Battle, lost all Syria, together with his life, in the first place; and soon after his Successor, having twice unfortunately fought Selim himself, and being by him at length taken and hanged upon one of the Gates of Cairo, lost all Egypt, of which Selim made himself absolute Master. But whether Selim intended any mischief against Rhodes or no, his death hastened the fare of Rhodes; for upon that the Empire fell to his Son Soliman the Magnificent, the shock of whose fury and puissance, upon the death of the Admiral Caretta, Philip de Villiers Lisle Adam Prior of France, was chosen to withstand; being elected Grand Master the 22d. of January, 1521. whose deportment in so Grand a Siege would he too unkindly left out, where D' Aubusson's Fame is so honourably expanded; it being certain that never two Courages were better mated in story. Never was a City more valiantly defended, nor more valiantly lost. And it is a question undetermined whether of the two got most, Amurach by rising from it, or Solyman by taking it; while the one prudently saved, the other became a mere prodigal of blood. Philip de Villiers was absent at the time of his being elected, and therefore Gabriel de Pomerols was chosen his Lieutenant till his arrival. Which dignity while he executed, he thought fit to send to the Pope a Model of the City of Rhodes, that he might see how it was fortified. But that which might have proved of higher concern, was the arrival of another Ambassador from the Grand Sophi, to continue that private correspondence which was begun with Carretta. Unluckily he finds Carretta dead; so that his Commission being at an end, he went to visit Amurath the Son of Sultan Zelim, in the behalf of the Sophi. That young Prince was entertained by the Order at their own Expenses in the Castle of Ferracla, whither the Knights sent several Presents to the young Sultan, that he might be able to gratify the Ambassador, who soon after returned home to his own Prince, not so much as mentioning any thing of the business for which he was sent.  
The Grand Master being in France at the time of his Election, made all the haste he could to his charge, departing from Marseilles in the Carack of Rhodes, together with four other hird Vessels. But his Voyage seemed to be somewhat inauspicious. For one of the Vessels was split by the way; and the great Carack itself had like to have been burnt; being all on fire through the carelessness of the Cook, but was happily quenched again through the industry and authority of the Grand Master. More than this, having passed by Nice and Corsica, a flash of lightning shot itself into the main Cabin of the Carack, and melted his Sword without hurting the Scabbard. Which little accidents were by some interpreted as ill omens of the success of the Siege of the Rhodes, that soon after happened. Cortogoli also, the Grand Turkish Pirate laid way to intercept the Grand Master, with a great number of Galleys and Galeots, partly out of hopes of booty, partly to revenge the death of his Brothers which the Knights of Rhodes had slain, and to set the third at liberty being then a slave in Rhodes. However the Grand Master, contrary to the advice and entreaties of the Knights and great Personages that attended him, with full sails made the Cape of St. Angelo, and in the night time passed the place where the Turks lay in wait for him, and arrived safe in Rhodes. 
Sept. 11. 1421.  Cortogoli, mad that he had so missed his prey, some time after enters into the Channel of Rhodes, hoping by his unlooked for coming to find some opportunity to do mischief. But being discovered, the Grand Master sent forth the Rhodian Fleet against him, the sight whereof not only put him to flight, but made him forsake a Vessel of Candia which he had almost taken.  
While things were thus transacted at Rhodes, Solyman being come to the Empire, contrary to the Opinion of all men, that he would be a peaceable Prince; soon after displaying the inordinate Ambition of his Predecessors with a vast power of men besieged Belgrade in Hungary, and took it. This Victory swell d him up; so that burning with a desire to conquer Rhodes, yet willing to conceal his design, that he might the better make his preparations, he sent an Ambassador to the Grand Master, to whom he delivered a Letter, written in the Greek Language, wherein he magnified the Grandeur of his Empire, and his Victories, highly extolled the Virtues of the Grand Master, and offered him peace and friendship. The Grand Master, and those of the Council immediately understood the craft and fallacy of Solyman, and that, being young and full of Ambition, his courage and deliberations tended to other designs then the Tenor of his Letter employed. And therefore there was an Answer returned him in the name of the Grand Master; by which he plainly understood that he was discovered; that the Rhodians neither feared nor trusted him; so that he was likely to find it afar more difficult task to conquer them, than he had found at Belgrade. Therefore he entered into several consultations about this Enterprise, concerning which the most part of his Council laid before him the difficulties he would meet with, and dissuaded him from hazarding either his Forces or his Reputation upon an attempt so unlikely to succeed. And indeed Mustapha Bassa, and Curtogoli were the only persons that fixed him in his Resolution. Among other things they represented to him that there was no other means for him peaceably to enjoy the Provinces of Egypt and Syria; for that the shortest and only way for him to receive intelligence from thence, and to send thither, was cut off by the Knights of Rhodes, who spread themselves upon those Seas, and intercepted all his Vessels. For which reason he was constrained to keep a Fleet always out at Sea: Besides, that as long as those of the Order kept footing in Rhodes, they would be continually animating and inciting the Christian Princes to make War upon him, and to league themselves together for the Recovery of the holy Land. He had found among the private Memoirs of Selim his Father, that the only way for him to secure his own affairs, was to make himself Master of Belgrade and Rhodes; by the situation whereof the Christians had always an opportunity to bring the War into the midst of his Territories. He was also importuned and pressed thereto by the complaints of the Inhabitants of Metelin, Negropont, Caramania, the Morea, and his new Subjects of Egypt and Syria, who were perpetually alarmed, pillaged, and plundered by those of the Order. He was also the more incited thereto by the opportunity which presented itself by reason of the Divisions and Wars between Charles the fifth and the King of France, from whom all the main Succour must come, which the Knights could expect: and more than all this, by the daily intelligence which he had received from a Jewish Physician, whom Selim had sent to live in Rhodes for a Spy. This Physician expert in his Art, had performed many excellent Cures, and by his officiousness and diligence toward all people had so insinuated himself into the acquaintance and favour of the Principal Knights of the Order, that he easily dived into their secrets, and sent his Advices to a Greek of Scio, who conveyed them to Constantinople. Among other things he advertized Solyman, that there was a great part of the Wall thrown down near the Bulwark of Auvergne to be rebuilt according to the Design and Directions of the Engineers, so that the City might be easily surprised, if his Fleet came in time to attack it in that place. But the best Intelligence that Solyman received was given him by Andrew D'Amarall, Prior of Castille, and afterward Chancellor of the Order, who bore in his mind a mortal hatred and enmity against the Grand Master, ever since the difference that happened between them ever since the Battle of Layasso; and against the Order itself, for that notwithstanding all his underhand dealing for the Honour, they had elected with an unanimous consent, the Grand Master, both for his merit and his virtues. This venom of Ambition, Malice and Revenge so strongly possessed him, and gained so far upon him, as to make him resolve upon this hideous Act of Treason. The day of the Election he was heard to say, that this would be the last Grand Master of Rhodes: And some days before the Siege, he wished his soul in the hands of the Devil, so that Rhodes and the Order might be ruined. He had in his service a Turkish slave, of a quick and ready apprehension, to whom he pretended to have given his Liberty, as being ransomed. This slave he sent to Constantinople with a particular and exact discovery of the State of the City, of the Provisions and Ammunition therein, and what Corn was wanting; persuading the Great Turk to send his Fleet with all speed, promising him a certain Victory, and to give him all the Intelligence that should be requisite.  
Solyman found this to be sound Intelligence, knowing that Amaral was one of the Principal Knights, and being of their Council, knew whatever was decreed or voted for the defence of the City; and sent back the slave laden with gifts, and promises of future rewards. Amaral entertained him, pretending he had brought his Ransom. This Action caused in many an extreme dislike, and a general suspicion of him, but by reason of his Dignity and Authority, there were none that durst to speak their minds freely.  
In the mean time Leo deceased, after he had governed the Papacy eight years; and Solyman made all his preparations privately as possibly he could, giving it out that he intended either for Apulia or Cyprus. Nevertheless the Grand Master was advertized of every thing by his Spies; and being assured that he should be besieged, sat in Council every day; and as often did Amarall labour to suppress the report of the Siege, as much as in him lay, to divert and hinder the Order from making those Provisions which were necessary for their defence; instancing how often such Rumours had been in vain, and how needless it was for the Order to put themselves to unnecessary charges at a time when their Exchequer ran low. However the Grand Master received more certain and pregnant Intelligence by a Ragusian, a person of understanding, and one that had the Turkish Language at command, whom he had sent to Constantinople for a Spy, that the Grand Signior was setting forth a vast number of Ships, and preparing all sorts of Engines of War, and Guns of an extraordinary bignese; and that there was a stop all persons going to Rhodes without the leave of the Governors. Thereupon the Grand Master making no farther doubt of the Truth, put all hands to the fortifications giving the charge thereof to the Knights, Anthony Brito, a Portoguese, and Francis Nueres of the Priory of Aquitaine. He also made provision of Ovens and Mills, and Lodgings of Ovens and Mills, and Lodgings for the Country people that should retire into the City. While these things were in hand, he sent to Pope Adrian, of whom he earnestly requested secure against the Turks; as also to the Emperor and the King of France, but in vain, because they were then in open War one against the other.  
As for the Pope, he rather prejudiced, then assisted them. For the Italian Knights being informed that he conferred every day Commanderies in Italy to their detriment, complained to the Council of Rhodes, and desired leave that they might go altogether to Rome, to make their complaints to his Holiness; which Liberty, considering the State of Affairs, was at that time denied them. Thus was the Pope the Occasion of an unseasonable disorder. For upon this the Italians openly complained of the Grand Master, while the Chancellor Amarall secretly blew the bellows of dissension, and carried it so far, as to deny their service to the Order, and to obey the Commands of the Grand Master. Thereupon the Grand Master deprived of their habit three of the Principal Ring leaders, Gabriel Solier, James Palavicino, and Lewis Moroso. And to justify himself, he referred the whole to the consideration and examination of the Council, who made their report, that the Grand Master had done nothing but what was just, prudent and rational. However some of Commotion and Alteration at such a conjuncture, made it their business to pacify the Italians, laying before them, that the world would think and could not judge otherwise, but that they sought for a pretence to go to Rome, not so much for the sake of their Commanderies, as to escape the danger of the approaching Siege. Whereby the persuaders wrought so far, that the Mutineers laid aside their anger, made their excuses and returned to the Obedience of the Grand Master, who as kindly embraced and pardoned them.  
This bustle being over, there arrived at Rhodes an Agent from Peri Bassa, who delivered a Letter to the Grand Master, wherein the Bassa invited him to a Treaty of Peace with the Grand Signior, assuring him that if he sought it, he should be well received; and advising him withal to send for that purpose persons of Quality to the Port. The Ambassador also delivered other Letters from the Grand Signior himself, much to the same effect. Most part of the Council, considering the Age of Peri, who was ancient, and his known prudence and moderation, had a good opinion of the Truth of the Embassy, insomuch that they resolved to send to Constantinople the Chevalier Marquet Catiline, and with him a Rhodian named Castrophylaca, a person of great judgement, and well skilled in the Turkish Language, to conclude a Peace in the same manner as it had been concluded in the time of D'Aubusson. But when they were consulting about their Instructions, some better considering of the business, began to be of opinion; that Peri was only a dissembler, and observed that Soliman's Letter gave no credence to that of Peri, and that it was not practicable to send and Ambassador without a safe conduction in ample manner from the Grand Signior. While they were in these doubts, the Grand Master was advertized that Peri's Ambassador wandered about the City, and with a diligent eye observed the Fortifications, and made inquiries after the Quantity of Provisions, the number of Soldiers, and what relief was expected. This opened the eyes of the Council and gave them to understand that they were abused, and that the Ambassador was only come as a spy. Thereupon they presently sent him away; ordering a Greek of mean Quality to go along with him, to whom they gave two Letters, one to Solyman, the other to the Bassa, where in a few words the Grand Master declared that he had intelligence of every thing, and that he had neither any thought or fear of the Grand Signior, or of his forces. Nevertheless he desired a safe conduct for an Ambassador, and offered to restrain the Incursions of those of the Order. The Ambassador being arrived at Port Fisco, found Horses there ready for him, and went Post to Constantinople, leaving the Greek behind; who being unwilling to travel alone through an Enemy's Country so far a journey, returned to Rhodes in the same Vessel that carried him. By which miscarriage every one was then ascertained that the Embassy was but only a deceit, and that the Town would suddenly be besieged.  
The City was well provided of Flesh, pulse, and wheat, of which there was enough all the time of the siege; & as for warlike munitions it was thought there had been enough, though the Siege had lasted a whole year. But they found it otherwise, for they spent a great quantity to hinder the approaches of the Enemy's Trenches: besides the continual waist of powder and shot day & night against so many thousands of busy Enemies. Thereupon the Chevalier Antony Bosio, a person of a quick Capacity, and one who did many services for the Order, while he lived, was sent into Candy for wine, and to make a Levy of Archers; but the Candiots, afraid of the Turk, forbidden him to raise any men; However under pretence of a convoy for his freight, he brought away four hundred Archers, which did eminent service all the time of the Siege. The same Bosio met also upon the Sea with a Venetian, whose name was Anthony Bonaldi, coming from Alexandria in a great Vessel laden with Wine and bound for Constantinople. But Bosio persuaded him to alter his Course, and bring his Cargo to Rhodes; where after he had sold his Wine, he put himself and his men into the service of the Order, and behaved himself during the siege, like a person of great valour. And now intelligence came from all parts, especially from the Duke of Nixia, that the Galleys were launching, and that the whole fleet wound departed at the Latter end of May. Thereupon the Grand Master caused a General Muster to be made as well of the Knights, as of the other Soldiers. As to those of the Habit, there appeared one and fifty of the Language of Province; 26 of that of Auvergne; Sixty two of France; Forty seven of Italy; Fifty one of Arragon, Catalogne and Navarre; Eleven of England; Six of Germany; Fifty seven of Castille; besides 13 others more that kept guard in the Castle of St. Nicholas. The whole Garrison consisted of about 5000 men. After the muster was thus made, the Grand Master appointed to every Commander his particular duty, what Posts, what Bastions to keep or relieve as necessity required; and what Knights to be continually about his own person. Particularly William Watson commanded the English Post. Nicholas Hussey the English Bastion; and Thomas Sheffeild was Captain of St. Anthony's Gate.  
The City was in this posture, when there was a signal made by fire from Fisco, that there were some persons there which desired to parley. Thereupon upon the Grand Master sent the Knigh Boniface D' Alluys, a Provençal thither with his Galley. When he came near the place where the fire was, certain horsemen that stood upon the shore gave the Knight to understand that they had a Letter to deliver from the Grand Signior; and invited him a shore: But the Knight too well understanding the humour of the Turks, told them he had but a short time to stay, and therefore if they had any thing to say, they should dispatch quickly, otherwise he would not tarry. Thereupon the Turks threw a Letter tied to a stone in to Galley; which Letter was delivered to the Grand Master, and read in Council. In this Letter Solyman demanded that Rhodes should be surrendered up to him, promising security, and good usage to all in general, with liberty to the Inhabitants to enjoy their own Laws and Religion, permission to them that would departed freely with their families and estates, and great advantages to them that would take up Arms in his service. Otherwise he threatened utterly to ruin the City, walls and Towers, and to make the Inhabitants all slaves. To this the Council thought it not convenient to return any answer, but to stand resolutely upon their guard. Thereupon the Grand Master having certain advice that the Fleet was under sail, defaced all the Gardens without the City, beginning with his own, and caused the Earth and rubbish to be carried into the Town, where it was of great use for the repair of breaches. He sent also for the Country people in, poisoned the waters, and burned the Corn and straw that remained upon the Ground. The Vanguard of the Fleet that first appeared consisted of 30 Galleys; out of which some few of the Turks landed in Lango to burn and pillage according to their custom. But the Commander of the Fort mounting all his men, charged them so vigorously, that having slain five or six, and taken three prisoners, he drove the rest to their Galleys, though his own Horse were killed under him, and some few of his men wounded. Thereupon the Turks left Lango, and made to the Jews Castle, and so entering the Gulf of Essimes, about fifteen miles from Rhodes they were first discovered by the sentinels from Mount Sallac. The 24 th'. of June, being St. John's day, the Turks came to an anchor on that side of Rhodes, where stood the Castle Favit. There they landed, and burned the Corn upon the ground, & the same day the body of the Fleet appeared in the Gulf of Essimes, where the 30 Galleys joined with the main Body. And yet the danger being so near, there happened almost as dangerous a Contest between the Auvergnian, and Germane Languages; while the Germans pretended that one part of the new Bastion next St. George's Gate belonged to them, and the Auvergnians, claimed it to themselves; insomuch that they had like to have come to blows. But the Grand Master interposing his Authority, the decision of the controversy was referred to the next General Chapter. In the mean time it was ordered that no other ensigns should be set up there but those of the Grand Master and of the Order.  
The 26 of June the whole Fleet was discovered making directly from the Gulf of Essimes for Rhodes; and coming to that part of the Isle which is called the Foss or Hole, 8 miles from Rhodes, they came to an Anchor; which not a little consternated the women and common people of the City. But the Grand Master without the least show of Alteration in his Countenance, with his accustomed constancy and serenity, went up and down from place to place providing for every thing; and that very day, which seemed to be the most terrible, caused Service to be said, and Processions to be made with the same order and tranquillity, as if it had been in a time of undisturbed peace. After that, he caused the Gates to be shut, and issued out of his palace armed, and attended by his guards, causing the Drums to beat, and the trumpets to sound, the Soldiers to take their appointed Posts, and set up the standards and ensigns upon the several Towers and Bastions, which a far off afforded a noble and magnificent sight, revived the courage of the Soldiery, and settled the Resolution of the people. In the mean time the 30 Galleys made up to Cape St. Martin, there to keep Guard, and to surprise such Vessels as should come to bring relief to the besieged. Late in the evening the whole Fleet, consisting of a hundred sail, left the Foss ' or Hole, and passing by the Port at three mile's distance, came and road in another part of the Island at a place called Parambolin, six miles from the City; because it was a road secure from the West winds that blow hard in that Channel. Some days after the rest of the Fleet joined, and lay there at an Anchor all the time of the Siege.  
There were in this Fleet a hundred Galleys, besides the thirty before mentioned; thirty great Galleasses, fifteen Mahons, twenty Flat-bottomed Boats, sixty Fusts, and a great number of Brigantines, ten or twelve great Ships, as big as Galleons, carrying provisions. Some few days after arrived more from Syria, and other parts; so that the whole Fleet consisted of 400 Sail of all sorts, and the Army of two hundred thousand men, of which sixty thousand were Pioners.  
The same day that the Fleet arrived at Parambolin, the Grand Master dispatched the Chevalier Bresols to the Pope, the Chevalier Andugar to the Emperor and King of Spain, and the Chevalier D'Ansonville to the Kings of England and France, to give them notice of the Siege, and to crave succour. Other Knights he dispatched away to buy all the Ammunition and warlike Provisions they could, and to hasten back with all speed to Rhodes. He also sent away summons to the absent Knights, to repair forthwith to the defence of their Island.  
The Turks were thirteen days before they made one shot, or any other attempt, by reason that the Lycian Army was not come up; but no sooner was that Army entered the Island, but the Turks began to set up their Pavilions, and to lodge their Camp in a place out of the reach of the Rhodian Artillery, to land their Guns, mount and plant them, open their Trenches, and make their approaches. Then it was that the Grand Master left his own Palace, and took up his Quarters in St. mary of the Victory, as being the-weakest part of the City, and upon which the Turks in their former Siege had made their chiefest Assaults. At the same time also the Turks, for a beginning, raised a little Penthouse of Board's, from whence they shot at the Posts of England and Provence. But the Artillery from the Town immediately ruined it, and killed the Cannoneers. After that they raised two other Batteries upon the Hill of Saint Cosmus, and St. Damian, and shot against the Posts of England and Spain, but the shot from the City ruin'd those in the same manner.  
As the Turks were labouring to advance their Trenches to the place where they designed to plant their Canon, the besieged were very desirous to make a Salley; to which the Grand Master having given his consent, St. Athanasius' Gate was opened, and out they fell upon those that were working in the Trenches; with whom they made such work, that the Turks were all cut to pieces, before any relief could come to them. But then the besieged observing a great Body making toward them, retired skirmishing under the English and Spanish Guns, which then playing upon the Enemy, made a dreadful havoc among them, in regard they came on so thick, that it was impossible for a bullet to miss. The Christians afterwards made some Sallies with like success; but because some one or other still fell, the Grand Master considering that the loss of one man was more to him then the loss of a hundred to the Enemy, forbidden any more Sallies to be made: For it was observed, that during the Siege the first Army was recruited with above a hundred thousand men; which was an easy thing for them to do, having the Land so near them to befriend them, and such a number of Vessels every day ready at command.  
The Salleys being over, the Turks advanced their Trenches with more freedom. So that they raised in several places above sixty Batteries, chief against the Posts of England, Provence, Spain and Italy; but the Artillery from the Town overthrew so many, that only thirty four remained.  
At that time arrived at Rhodes a Gentleman whose name was Gabriel Radin Martinengo, a person well known for his skill in Fortifications, whom Bozio had persuaded to leave Candy and come to the assistance of the Rhodians. Him the Grand Master highly honoured, gave him the habit of the Order, and permission to wear the Cross; made him supernitendant over the Artillery, with a promise of the first Vacancy that fell in the Italian Language: honours which he highly deserved, by carrying himself so nobly and virtuously all the time of the Siege.  
Now that the Grand Master might set him at work, he signified his desire to know the condition of the Turkish Army, and what they intended to do. Whereupon, a Mariner, born in Trebizond, then in the service of the Order, took seven or eight young men of his acquaintance, and having shaved and clad themselves in Turkish Habit, they took Melons, Cucumbers, and other fruits, and secretly embarked themselves the next night: and avoiding the Turkish Fleet, made out to the Sea, and so returned by break of day in sight of Rhodes, as if they had come from Turkey. From thence they made to the Cape which is nearest to Lycia, where the Merchants met from all parts to sell Refreshments of all sorts to the Army. There they put to sale their Melons and Cucumbers, and Frankly enquired what news of the Army. The Turks, who took them for natural Turks, as willingly satisfied them, and told them the whole condition of their Forces. When they had sold all, and understood all, they made out to Sea again, having received two Turks into their Vessel, with much entreaty, that were weary of an Army Life. Those they bond hand and foot, and brought along with them into Rhodes, and presented to the Grand Master, who ordered the Prior of St. Giles, and Martinengo to examine them. These two Turks being carried up to the steeple of St. John, showed the Prior and Martinengo how the Quarters of the Turkish Army were disposed; told them the Number of the Soldiers; that Solyman himself was speedily expected; that the Soldiers grew out of heart, and mutined against their Commanders, being weary of a war, to which they cried they were lead as to a Slaughter House, with many other things not believed at first, as being thought to have been spoken out of flattery, or to procure good entertainment to themselves, but which were indeed really true. For Peri Bassa observing a manifest and dangerous Mutiny in the Army, dispatched away a Courier to Solyman to give him Intelligence, and to supplicate him to come in person forthwith, that he might put a stop to the sedition by his presence and Authority. Solyman flies through Asia the less with an incredible speed, and embarking at Port Fisco, arrived in Rhodes the 28th. of July, where he was received with great triumph, and lodged himself four or five miles from the City at a place called Megalandra, out of the reach of the Canon. Solyman held a council, and resolved upon a strict enquiry whence the Mutiny proceeded, and a severe punishment of the Authors. But Peri Bassa by his grave remonstrances soon softened and appeased his wrath. He laid before him that this mutiny rather proceeded from fear & an apprehension of danger then from Malice or Rebellion, and that therefore his Majesty might by his authority reduce them to their duty, knowing that the Turks had the Ottoman name in so much Veneration, that upon his appearance they would soon recollect themselves, and return to their Obedience; but that Rigour was now unseasonable, especially against the old Soldiers, without whose assistance he could never compass so great a design as the taking of Rhodes. Solyman harkened to his advice, assembled all the Army together, made them lay down their Arms, and prostrate themselves upon the Ground: then sitting on a Royal Throne, under a Rich Canopy, turning his face this way and that way with a Majestic and stern Countenance, He first accused their Infidelity; heightened the injuries done by the Knights of Rhodes to his Subjects, advanced his own power, his Triumphs and his Victories; upbraided the Old Soldiers of Ingratitude, as having enriched themselves by his fortune in war; of Cowardice, to let such a handful of men make head against such a Potent and flourishing Army. Lastly, said he, am not I here the Companion of your dangers? Nor will I part from hence till I have them in my power. I swear it by the holy head of divine Mahomet; and if I fail, may my Kingdoms and my house be ruined, and my own person perish eternally. Go then, and think of nothing else but what you are commanded. Nor let any man distrust my clemency, nor my word, but build upon my Liberality. For I am here the spectator and judge of your Valour & your Merits.  
Solyman had no sooner ended his Harangue, but he withdrew into his Pavilion, and commanded that the Soldiers should be all sworn anew to their Captains. And from that time it was, that the Soldiers recovered their courage, became more obedient and deliberate, and proceeded in all things with more order and conduct. Now they continued their batteries more terribly than before. They also played in three several places with two great brass-Cannons like Morter-Peices, that carried marble-bullets of a prodigious weight, and yet all the harm then to kill 25 men, and the Chevalier Lyoncel that commanded the Bastion of Cosquin. This battery they left off by the advice of the Jewish Physician, who gave them notice how little good it had done. After the Turks made it their business to advance their trenches, and to fill up the moats with Earth; and though the Artillery of the Christians continually fired upon them, nevertheless they gave not over their work till they had finished a great battery between the Spanish and Auvergnian Post, and another against that of Italy, and there they lodged their Cannon that played upon the besieged so furiously that they durst not peep above the battlements, till they had made themselves new defences of wood and planks, upon which the Besiegers having advanced their trenches to the side of the Moat, made certain gaps in the wall on their side, through which they much annoyed the defendants with their Musket-shot, and killed some few of them. In the mean while the Captains lodged themselves in their Trenches: Mustapha the General against the Bulwark of England, Peri against the Italian Post, Achmat against that of Spain, and Auvergne, with the Aga of the Janissaries; the Beglerbey of Anatolia against that of France; the Beglerbey of Romania against the Gardens of St. Antony, who began a battery at the beginning of August, against the Germane Post, which was weak, and without any platform. Nevertheless the Grand Master caused it to be fortified within with intrenchments of Earth, great pieces of Timber-planks, and Bavines, and played his Artillery so thick from several places and Posts on that side, so that he dismounted the Artillery, and overthrew the batteries of the Turks till they were weary of repairing them, and so removed them.  
By this time it was that the Rhodians began to find the want of their powder, and though the Grand Master continually employed fourteen of his own horses to bray saltpetre, and other materials proper to make powder in a sure and well-guarded place, yet the besieged were forced to be very sparing of their powder, which gave great advantage to the enemy. The Turks seeing no good to be done on that side, played upon the steeple of St. John's Church, and beat it down, upon advice given them by the Jewish Physician, that from thence the Christians discovered what was done in the Camp. The ruin of this steeple being a lovely structure was much lamented by the Inhabitants. This done, the Besiegers under the command of the Beglerbey of Anatolia removed their batteries against the Tower of St. Nicholas, which they furiously played upon for the space of ten days with twelve great pieces of Canon; but the Artillery from the Tower broke and ruined all their batteries, so that the Beglerbey was constrained to change the form of his batteries, to remove his mantlets; (which are made of Earth close rammed, and closed with boards fastened together with great spars of timber) to dismount his Guns, and plant them in the night upon great platforms without gabions or Mantlet, with which playing securely all the night, when day appeared they covered them again with Earth and grave. Thus they made above 500 shot which only beat down a pane of the wall on the westside, through which appeared another good wall, and so many stout defendants, that these difficulties being related to Solyman, he caused the said Battery to be removed, whereby the Chevalier Castellaine Captain of St. Nicholas Tower acquired great honour. At the same time the Turks raised 14 Mantelets against the Posts of England and Spain, upon which they planted Guns of a prodigious bigness, and played upon them for a month together, so that they ruin'd the new wall of the English Platform, while the old wall stood entire; beside that they brought through their trenches unto the Moat three huge pieces of Canon; with which they levelled the defences of the Bastion of Spain, and beat down the wall, by the ruins whereof the Turks might easily mount the Bastion. The same Battery they raised against the Bastion of Provence with three pieces of Canon planted upon the side of the Moat, and in a small time threw down more than the besiegers in a long time were able to repair. Then the Grand Master leaving St. Maries of the Victory came to St. Athanasius Gate, and lodged himself under the English wall, and there he constituted four Captains, allotting to each ten Knights, besides the Ordinary Guard to secure and preserve the English wall. Besides all this, the Turks continually played with their Sacres and Falcons, and other small Artillery; and the besieged did the like, which stood them in no small stead to ruin their Mantlets, and dismount their pieces. Among the rest, a Culverin shot pierced through a Mantlet upon one piece, killed five men, and carried away both legs of the Turkish Cannoneer, of which he died. Solyman was much troubled for his loss, insomuch that he said he had rather have lost one of his Bassa's. Nor was the Italian Post more mercifully handled, which was continually battered by seventeen pieces of Canon, so that it had been an easy thing to have mounted the wall by the ruins that fell into the Moat. Yet though this long battery had made a great breach in the Italian Post, yet would not the besiegers venture an assault, but only continued to make their approaches and to ruin the entrenchments, and defences of the besieged. Which the Chevalier Martinengo seeing, with the Grand Master's permission, made a sally with about an hundred choice men, and falling upon the Enemy unawares, killed & put to flight whatever stood in their way, and so with one prisoner and the head of another, returned with great applause. The Turks that came in heaps to the relief of their own, were miserably torn to pieces by the Artillery of the Town, having no shelter and lost a greater number in their retreat then Martinengo slew.  
This being the condition of the City, the Grand Master, who knew it would not be long ere they gave a General Assault, dispatched away Bosio to the Pope, and his Secretary into Provence and to the King of France, beseeching them to hasten the succours which he expected from them. Being also desirous to know what news was in the turkish Camp, one Carpathio a Rhodian undertook to satisfy him, and getting out of the Post in a Brigantine with a crew of good Soldiers clad after the Turkish manner, he coasted along the shore as far as the Foss, where he saw several Soldiers that were taking the fresh Air by the Seaside, who immediately discovered him. The Rhodiot put on a bold face, and in the Turkish Language called to them aloud, and told them, the Bassa had sent for them, which they easily believed, and went aboard the Brigantine. One of the Turks finding he was in the wrong, drew his Sword and wounded the Rhodiot in the thigh, for which the Rhodian repaid him by cutting off his head; the rest being eleven, were easily mastered, and brought to the Grand Master.  
Now Martinengo seeing the great ruins which the Enemy's Artillery had made, raised barricadoes, and wrought entrenchments upon the walls, where he planted a good number of Guns, which playing into the Enemy's Trenches, killed a great Number of the Turks; he also lodged several Soldiers under the shelter of the houses, who shot incessantly, and made a great slaughter.  
The Batteries of the Turks not succeeding to their wishes, they fell to mining; and had in several parts of the City made above forty, so that of six parts of the City, five in a few days were undermined. But the most part of those Mines proved ineffectual, because of the Counter-mnies which were continually made round about. There was one that was perceived in the midst of the Trench of Provence. But Martinengo immediately entered the Trench, opened the Mine, and casting in barrels of Powder and other combustible stuff, burnt and stifled all the Turks within. Another Mine the Turks made under the Bulwark of England which played the fourth of September, and blew up above seven times nine foot of the wall, and filled the Moat so full of rubbish, that the Turks, that they might easily mount the wall, and come on furiously to the Assault with their accustomed cries, gained the top of the Bastion immediately, and set up seven of their Colours, and had made themselves masters of it, but for an Entrenchment which Martinengo had made the day before, which stood entire about four foot from the Ruins of the wall. That Entrenchment stopped the Enemy; and thither the Knights ran and came to a close fight with Pike and Sword; while others did great mischief to the Enemy with hand-Granadoes and other Artificial fires; and there it was that Martinengo and the Chevelier de Bidoux did wonders, becoming men of Extraordinary valour and courage. Here they came to Sword and Dagger, and even to collar one another; the Turks perceiving that if they could but get the victory here, they might easily get into the City. And indeed that small handful of Christians that sustained the weight of such a multitude, could not have been able to have held out, had not the Grand Master, upon the noise of the blowing up of the Mine hasted to their Relief, and with the Knights of the reserve, and the Soldiers of his guard, rushed into the midst of his Enemies, and charged them so furiously, that in a small time a good part of them were cut to pieces, and the rest so smartly repulsed, that they quitted the fight, and fled in confusion, and disordered and astonished those that were coming to their assistance, so that neither the threats, nor Exhortations of the Captains could stop them. Which the General Mustapha seeing, flew out of the Trenches in great indignation, crying to the fugitives aloud, that if they would not return to the Assault; he would go on without them, and having so said, boldly marched toward the breach.  
His countenance and Language inspired the fugitives with new vigour, so that they rallied and returned with their Bassa more resolutely than before to the Assault, and maintained the fight for above two hours. At length the Christians redoubling their courage, and animated by the presence and Example of the Grand Master, fell upon the Turks with that fury, that being no longer able to resist, they turned their backs; besides the Rhodian Cannoneers had planted certain pieces against the bottom of the breach which played upon the Turks retiring, so successfully, that they killed more than were slain in the Assault. Two thousand of the Turks were slain that day: of the Rhodians twelve or fifteen slain outright; and fifteen or twenty wounded. In the midst of these encounters the Chevalier Didier de Puy Governor of Ferracta gave notice to the Grand Master, that he had taken certain Turks, who confessed that there were in Rhodes certain Persons of Quality who sent the Enemy Intelligence of what was deliberated & concluded in Council, and of all that was done in the City, and that the Turks were digging a large Mine near St. John's de Collaccio. This was no small trouble to the Grand Master, so much the more because he was forced to conceal his resentments, by reason that no persons were named. However he promised a large reward to those that could discover the Mine. But it was not long before it discovered itself under the Bastion of England, by seven a clock in the morning upon the ninth of September, overthrowing about nine yards of the wall next to the Mine beforementioned, and came to the very barricado's before they met with any resistance. But when the Dread and terror was once over, the Knights resuming their wont courage, put the Turks to a shameful retreat, till forced by the swords and scimitars of their Commanders, even of their General himself, they returned again with more vigour, and renewed a bloody fight; but the Grand Master coming to the relief of his own with his reserve, fought them with so much fury for three hours, that the Turks no longer able to abide so powerful a defence, quitted the fight, and retired into their Trenches, leaving one of their Ensigns behind them. This Assault cost the Great Turk three thousand of his men, and three Sangiacs; of the Christians about 30 were slain and some of the Knights wounded.  
The Turks repulsed with so much loss in two assaults, began again to murmur and discommend the enterprise as rash and impossible. Which Solyman perceiving, began to despair, and to be offended against Mustapha. The mean time Peri Bassa to preserve himself in the good Opinion and favours of the Grand Signior, pressed him continually to make a furious battery of 17 Canons against the Italian Post: But the besieged still repaired with so much speed and diligence whatever the Enemy's Artillery ruined, and played their great and small shot with so much success, that the Turks durst hardly peep out of their Trenches. The Beglerbeg of Anatolia did the same against the Post of Provence, and fell to mining very industriously, being advised thereto by a treacherous Greek, who under pretence of trade had well observed the strength of the City. But the most remarkable accident was the kill of the Governor of Negropont, and Solyman's Favourite, who riding by the Italian Post richly clad with a red Battoon in his hand, was hit by a musket-bullet from the Italian Post, and fell down dead immediately; to the great grief of Solyman.  
Peri enraged against the Italians, resolved to make a most terrible assault upon their Platform; which he did so unexpectedly and with so much speed, that the sentinels that stood without the Entrenchment were killed before they could be succoured. But the Italians taking the Alarm, and being well seconded by the Grand Master and his usual guard, in an hours time the Bastion was well soaked with the Blood of the Turks. Peri, finding such a stout resistance here, and believing that other places were left naked, gave immediate order for other forces to assail the New Bastion of the Grand Master Carretta; but there the Chevalier Angelot Captain of the Bastion so behaved himself, having a good number of Soldiers and Citizens with him, that the most part of the Turks were either killed or wounded, and the Flanking Artillery of other Bastions made such havoc among the thick multitudes of the Turks, that at length, quite dismayed, they began to retire. Peri thereupon seeing the Soldiers would no longer abide the heat of such a terrible encounter, sounded a general Retreat, though with the loss of more men then in the former combats.  
Not long after Mustapha, covetous to repair his honour, and to regain the favour of the Grand Signior, resolved to give a third assault to the Bastion of England. He imparted his resolution to the Achmat, who agreed with him at the same time to assail the Bastions of Spain and Auvergne. Upon the 3 d. of September Mustapha unexpectedly fell upon the Bastion, mounted the Ruins, and fixed their Ensigns near the Rhodian Entrenchments, and at the same time endeavoured to make their way forward. The fight was terrible and doubtful: neither was Mustapha wanting in any part of a judicious and courageous Captain. Achmat also at the same time played two Mines, one in the Auvergnian, the other in the Spanish Post. The Auvergnian Mine proved in effectual; the Spanish Mine brought down a considerable part of the wall of the Barbacan of the said Bastion. And yet for these dreadful Ruins, the Christians so well behaved themselves in every place, that the Turks, having lost above 3000 men, were forced to retreat with shame to their Trenches. Two days after the Jewish Physician (often spoken of before) was discovered shooting an Arrow into the Turkish Camp, with a Letter fastened to the end of it. Thereupon he was apprehended; and upon his examination confessed that he was a Spy for the Turks; that he had sent them five Letters; that he had given them several advices; and had encouraged them to continue the Siege: For which He was condemned to be quartered.  
After these Repulses, and the giving fire to three other Mines soon after, that did little or no harm, the Bassa's consulted together, and resolved to give a general assault upon fore several places of the City all at a time. Solyman approved their Resolution, assembled his Captains together, encouraged and cheered them up; and assured them of Victory; and by public Proclamation gave the common Soldiers the whole Plunder of the City. Thus the whole Army resumed their wont courage, and full of Hopes prepared themselves for a general Assault. As a preparation to which the Bassa's order the English Bulwark, the Posts of Spain and Auvergne, and the Italian Platform to be battered for two days together, on purpose to widen and enlarge the Breaches.  
The Grand Master observing this universal motion of the Enemy, and their continual Batteries for 2 days together, with an extraordinary diligence; prepared for his defence. Day and night he visited all the Posts, earnestly besought every one to be watchful and ready; and having taken a little repose in his arms, by break of day he ranged the Soldiers in their several Posts; and that there might remain no fear or astonishment among them, he made them a short speech, Declaring to them the glorious opportunity which offered itself for them to signalise their Zeal for the honour of God, & their fidelity to their Order and the welfare of Christendom; and their affection to a people that had lived under their Dominion for above 200 years. He gave them to understand how often they had proved their own valour and the timidity of the Enemy. That though their number were great, yet that there was yet a sufficient number left of brave and valiant men to defend a just cause, and repel the force of Ambition and perfidious impiety. That they were to confider their Enemies were a sort of ignorant people, forced on by their Bassa's, for fear of encurring the displeasure of their Master, to whom they had represented the enterprise so easy: that they themselves were persons of honour, dedicated from their Infancy to the service of God. And therefore he besought and conjured them to do their duties.  
The Turks by break of day discharged all their Artilleriy at once, that they might pass the Moat under the covert of the smoke; and that done, they boldly fell on in all places at once. The Grand Master posted himself in the English Bulwark, as being the weakest place▪ Nor was the Spanish Artillery a little favourable to the English, flanking the Turks, and making a great slaughter among them insomuch that they were almost ready to recoil; when Mustapha's Lieutenant throwing himself among them, prayed▪ entreated, threatened, promised and heading them himself, brought them on again; though to his cost, being the first man slain with a Canon Bullet as he was mounting the Ruins. The Turks enraged by his fall, discharged their small shot and arrows like hail upon the Rhodians. And Mustapha observing their Metal, sent them continually fresh supplies, and with fair words and promises exhorted them to their Duties. Yet could they not force the besieged to stir a foot, who in the view of the Grand Master with an invincible courage sustained all that Impetuosity, and at the same time fought with equal valour and obstinacy in all the other Quarters. The very women were not unserviceable; while some carried Bread, Wine and other refreshments to the Soldiers, others threw stones; others poured down boiling Oil and water upon the Enemy. But the greatest danger of the Combat was in the Spanish Post, where the Aga General of the Janissaries, having picked out the choicest of his men, marched himself to the Assault at the head of them, who followed him with such a Resoluton, that they covered all the Breach, gained the platform above, and planted forty of their Ensigns upon it, with the same violence rushing on to the Barricado's, not minding the prodigious slaughter of their own that fell on every side. Thereupon the Knights and Soldiers in the Spanish Bulwark, seeing the distress of those in the Post, ran to the assistance of their friends, leaving only some few for a guard behind. Which certain of the Turks that lay concealed behind the rubbish perceiving▪ presently mounted the Bulwark, and made themselves Masters of it; pulled down the Ensigns of the Christians, and setting up their own, cried out in their own Language, Victory, and invited their Companions to assist them. Upon which Achmats' Regiment advanced; but the Auvergnian & Spanish Artillery soon stopped their Career, So that the Grand Master being advertized of this new accident, left the English, and entering the Spanish Post, charged the Enemy so vigorously, that he put them absolutely to flight. Then seeing the Spanish Bastion mastered by the Turks, he sent the Commander of Bourbon with a Company of stout Soldiers with order to enter the Mine and Casemat, and to mount the Bastion. Which he did so effectually, that in a short time he wholly regained it. Notwithstanding all this, the Aga with fresh forces returned to the assault of the Spanish Post; and the Grand Master having left a sufficient Guard in the Bastion, returned to the defence of the same, and sending for two hundred fresh men from St. Nicholas Tower, after a bloody fight of six hours, forced the Turks to abandon their Colours, and to retreat to their trenches, after the loss of above 15000 men. Solyman was so highly incensed against Mustapha upon this defeat, that he condemned him to be shot to death with arrows. Peri Bassa, upon the presumption of his Age, his merits, and his Authority, coming to intercede for Mustapha, was sentenced to the same death. And both had suffered had not Achmat Bassa and all the rest of the Principal Commanders, prostrate at Soliman's feet, implored their pardon.  
Solyman seeing all his attempts upon the City of Rhodes so vain and fruitless, fell into such a deep melancholy, that he shut himself up in his Pavilion for several days, and would not be seen, resolving to raise the siege and to be gone. The great Commanders whose hopes lay all in the Mines, finding their expectations frustrate, resolved to raise the Camp. Nay several had carried their baggage to the Sea side, and several Companies had quitted the Trenches. When an Albanese Soldier slipping out of the Town, gave intelligence to the Turks, that the greatest part of the Knights and Soldiers were either killed or wounded in the last General Assault. Other Traitors wrought the same, advised them to stay, assuring them that the City could not held out two Assaults more. And it was afterwards known that the Chevalier D'Amaral wrought to the same purpose, and encouraged the continuance of the siege. Upon this Intelligence the Captains changed their Resolutions, divulged the news through the Army, and began to batter the City more furiously than before. Solyman also to let the Soldiers understand his Resolution, and to encourage them, began to build him a pleasure-house upon Palermos' Hill. Mustapha also, though he had orders to repair to his Government, ventured to give three Assaults successively upon the English Bastion with the Mamalucks, who were so ill entertained, the greatest part of them being killed or wounded, that the rest retired to their Quarters, resolving to return no more. Peri secretly undermined the Italian Bastion, & the Mine indeed made a terrible noise and shaking, but took vent on the Camp side, and killed a great many of the Turks.  
Mustapha having such ill success, thought it not convenient to stay any longer, so that upon his departure Achmat was made General. He continued the siege with the same violence, so that there was not a day passed wherein he did not both batter, Assault and undermine the defences of the City. However the Grand Master remitted nothing of his wont care and diligence, fight and hazarding his person every where, where need required, beyond what was reasonable for a person of his degree and Importance.  
And now when it was almost too late, those conspiracies and treasons were discovered, which were the loss of the Island. For in the first place Lucio Custrophilaca, a Rhodian, and a person of great wealth, reputation and alliances, who had the charge of the fortifications, the bread and ammunition was perceived, at a time and in a place very much to be suspected, to have shot an arrow into the Turkish Camp, who was thereupon lay hold on, examined, and put upon the wrack, but would confess nothing to the purpose. Next to him Blas Diez Servant to the Chancellor D'Amaral, was taken in the same fact, and being put to the Torture, confessed his Master's Treason, declaring how he had wrote to the Turks Bassa's to continue the Siege, for that both men and provisions failed in the City. Thereupon the Grand Master caused the Chancellor to be apprehended, who being examined and tortured, would confess nothing himself; but being, convicted by sufficient testimonies, confirmed to his face by his Servant, his Servant was hanged, and he beheaded, dying without any sign of repentance or Christian devotion.  
In the mean time the Canons of the Enemy thundered against the Bastion of Italy, where they ruin'd all the defences and Barricado's that Martinengo had raised; by which means they advanced their Trenches to the very foot of the Breach. The Bastion of England was also beaten down to the Ground, and the most part of the Barricado's and entrenchments ruined, so that some advised the quitting and blowing it up. But because that signified little in regard of the vast numbers of the Turks, the Grand Master resolved to hold it out to the utmost, and to that end gave the command of it to the Chevalier John de Been, who kept it to the last.  
At this time arrived the Chevalier de Rocque Martin with twelve Knights, a hundred Soldiers and some Ammunition. But notwithstanding this small relief, the Grand Master observing the desperate condition of the City (for now in some places there were no other defences but beams and boards between the Enemy and him, beside that they had set up three Pravilions within the City near the Rhodian entrenchments) sent away to Candy for Soldiers, Ammunition and victuals, which the Duke of Candy had provided, as also to Naples to hasten the succours, which the winter season hinder d from coming.  
In the mean while the Turks gave too desperate Assaults upon the Italian and Spanish Platforms, but were still repulsed with the loss of above 3000 men. Insomuch that Achmat finding it impossible to take the City by force, resolved to give no more Assaults, but rather chose to preserve his men, who were grown quite weary of the Christian valour; nevertheless he continued his batteries, and advanced his Trenches, thinking to creep by degrees into the City. Solyman also thinking to make short work caused several Letters to be shot into the City, inviting the Inhabitants to surrender, offering them all the Immunities they could desire; and threatening on the other side in case of obstinacy, all the severity imaginable. Peri also suborned a Genoese, who having liberty to speak to the Knights, advised them as Christians to consider the deplorable condition of the City, and told them withal, that if they were so disposed, he could put them in a way to make an honourable composition; but they believing him to be some impostor, sent under hand by Solyman or his Bassa's, gave little credit to his words. Two days after he came to the same place, pretending he had a Letter from the Grand Signior, but then they bid him retire, and to force him the sooner so to do, they shot at him.  
Some while after came the Albanian Soldier before mentioned, pretending Letters also from Solyman to the Grand Master. But then the Grand Master forbidden any farther Parlying.  
However these offers were divulged abroad in the City, which begat in many a desire to hearken to propositions or peace as more regarding their wives and Children then their honour. And it was carried so far, that some of the Citizens went and declared their desires to the Metropolitan, and some of the Grand Cross, requesting them to declare their grievances to the Grand Master. But he severely checked them, telling them that it was not a request to be mentioned; that they should rather resolve to die for the common liberty, and the Honour of the Order. The next day they came and besought him again to provide for the Common safety, for that they were assured that the Citizens would yield to a treaty, rather than be cut in pieces themselves, their wives and children. Then the Grand Matter finding himself pressed and importuned of all hands, submitted to necessity, and called a general Council. So soon as the Council was sat, a Petition was presented to the Grand Master, humbly requesting him to think of a Capitulation; or at least to give them leave to secure their wives and children; and at the foot of the petition was an intimation that if the Grand Master would not, they would provide for them themselves. In this distress the Grand Master; desirous to know the condition of the City more particularly, before he would resolve any farther, required the advice of the Prior of St. Giles, and Martinengo, who both declared in full Council that in either consciences, and upon their Honour and allegiance, they could not think the City any longer tenable, the Enemy being lodge d forty yards one way, and 30 yards another way within the City, so that it was impossible for them to retire any farther, nor for the Enemy to be beaten out.  
Upon the advice and Relation of two such judicious and great men, the whole Council considering how much it concerned them to preserve the holy Relics and the souls and honour of so many Christian Women and Children, and the evident danger of the whole Orders being dispersed and abolished, if all that were there should be lost, resolved with one accord to Capitulate. The Grand Master still laid before them, the duty that lay upon them to preserve the honour of the Order, which had never yet been defiled with any stain of cowardice or pusillanimity, having always preferred their honour and Death before the safety of their Lives, But the Council overruled him with so many circumstantial and solid reasons, that he was constrained to yield to the present and inevitable necessity, and their grave advice. This design Heaven was so far pleased to favour, that Solyman began first. For he first set up an Ensign upon the Church of St. Marry de Lermonitra; and then the Grand Master set up another upon the Mill belonging to the Cosquin Gate. Immediately two Turks came out of the Trenches, desiring to parley: upon which the Grand Master sent forth the Prior of St. Giles and Martinengo; to whom the Turks delivered a Letter from Solyman.  
This Letter was read in Council; wherein Solyman demanded a surrender of the Town, & offered the Knight's liberty to be gone, with security for their persons and their Baggage: which if they would not accept, he was resolved to put all to the sword. Thereupon in consideration only of the people and Inhabitants of the Town, the same Resolution was again taken, and the Chevalier Anthony de Grolee, and Robert Perucci, Judge of the castilians, were commissionated to attend Solyman. So soon as they were gone forth, a near Kinsman of Achmats, and a Trucheman much favoured by the Grand Turk, were admitted unto Rhodes as Hostages, and a truce was concluded for three days.  
The next day Achmat presented the Ambassadors to Solyman, who declared to him what they had in commission, Solyman to maintain his Reputation, firmly denied that he had ever wrote orient to the Grand Master; nevertheless since the Grand Master had sent to him upon the same Occasion, he commanded them to let him know his mind, which was the same that he had written, and demanded his Resolution within three days, and that in the mean time there should be no working toward the repair of their fortifications, being firmly resolved, though all Turkey perished, not to stir out of the Island, till he had Rhodes in his possession. And having so said, he dismissed them. Perucci returned to the City. But Achmat kept the Chevalier Grollee with him, led him into his Pavilion, and caused him to drink with him; and discoursing of several passages in the siege, Achmat told him with a great oath; that above forty thousand Turks had been slain, and as many were sick and wounded; Peruoci having made his report to the Council, it was resolved upon good considerations that they should not accept those conditions the first time, but send other Commissioners.  
In the mean time certain of the Citizens took upon them, and were mightily offended that the Capitulation was begun, without their privity. Declaring also that they would never consent to any such conditions, but rather die with their Swords in their hands for their liberty, then surrender themselves to the power of the Turk. For that whatever the Turk promised, he would be sure to exercise nothing, but rapine and slaughter as he had done at Belgrade. The Grand Master observing this Grecian fickleness, told them in friendly manner that the Resolutions he had taken, were resolved upon upon mature deliberation; which consultations were to be kept secret that they might not come to the Enemy's knowledge, and that it was more for their safety then for the good of the Order, that they made any conditions at all. To which purpose he was sending away other Commissioners the better to assure himself of Soliman's word and fidelity. With which answer the Citizens showed themselves very well satisfied.  
Upon this two other Commissioners were dispatched away, Raymond Marquet, and Lopezde Pas, both Spanish Knights, who represented to Solyman that the Grand Master had to confer with several people of several Nations that the time Limited was too short, and therefore desired that he would be pleased to grant them a longer time. Solyman not relishing this discourse without saying any more, commanded Achmat to continue his batteries, which were begun again upon the 15 th'. of December and so the Truce was broken Solyman however detained one of the Commissioners, which showed that he had yet some inclinations to to Capitulate. The Grand Master observing the Hostility begun again, and that the Turks advanced with their Trenches farther and farther into the Town, sent for them that hindered the treaty, and protested to live and die with them, and commanded all the Inhabitants to repair home to their Quarters there to keep guard, and that no person should quit his Quarters upon pain of Death. This Order was observed for two days, but the 3 d. a young man left his Quarters and went and lay at home, for which the Grand Master commanded him to be hanged. Some few days after that, all the rest of the Inhabitants lost both their courage and their patience, and forsook the walls and breaches, so that the Turks might easily have entered, had not the Grand Master withstood them with that small handful of men which he had left him; which some few days after was a little augmented by the coming of the Chevalier D'Andugar, and the Chevalier Farfan an English man, with a hundred Soldiers and some Wine.  
This Wine was a great consolation to the City, besides that the Ship made such Bravadoes as it entered the Port, that the Turks generally believed it had brought a Relief of above a Thousand men. However the Turks continued their Assaults, and particularly they made a violent onset upon the Spanish Barbacan, from which, though they were at first repulsed, yet returning with such vast numbers the Rhodians were overwhilmed and oppressed by multitude, and forced to retire into the City. The Turks having gained the Barracan, presently came to the foot of the English wall, and by the Ruins of the Barbacan got to the top of it, and there planted several of their Colours. The Citizens beholding the Extreme danger they were in, confessed their folly, and besought the Grand Master, as the common Father, to provide for their safety, who gave them liberty to constitute Deputies of their own to attend Solyman, and to procure particular security from him for themselves, and ordered them to go along with the Chevalier Grollee.  
The Grand Master however having some hopes of relief, to the end he might temporize for a while, sent Perucci first to show to Solyman a Letter of Bajazet his Grandfather, wherein he bequeathed his malediction to those of his successors that should make war against Rhodes. Perucci addressed himlelf to Achmat, who desirous to see the Letter, took it, and having torn it to pieces, threw it under his feet in great disdain. Having so done, he sent Perucci back to the Grand Master, to tell him, that if he did not suddenly return Solyman an answer, he must expect to be miserable.  
However the Grand Master had one more delay, which was to offer to Solyman by the proposal of the Chevalier de Grollee, otherwise called Passim, the expenses and charges of the whole siege, if he would rise from before it. But Achmat would not suffer any such word to be delivered to Solyman, saying that Solyman had more regard to his honour and his Reputation then to all the Riches in the World. At length the Grand Master finding no way to avoid an agreement, and that delay would be the Loss of all, vanquished his own courage, and over whelmed with grief and vexation, gave h●s word to surrender the Town upon the conditions proposed. To which purpose he sent away the Chevalier Passim the Deputies of the Town, who were presented to his Majesty; to whom the Knights declared that the Grand Master was now resolved to surrender the City upon the conditions proposed to him, upon a full assurance in the faith and promises his Majestly, and humbly entreated him to favour the Inhabitants in the petition which they had to present to him for their peace and safety. The Inhabitants besought him to remove his Army a little farther off, that they might not receive any Injury either in their persons or goods, and that those that would be gone might departed in safety. Solyman accepted the offer of the Grand Master, and promised to observe inviolably every article of the Capitulation. That the Churches should not be profaned; that none of the Children should be carried away as Tribute Children to make Janissaries. That the Christians should have the free exercise of their Religion. That the Inhabitants should be exempt from all duties for five years. That they that would might departed in three years with their Estates unmolested. That Solyman should furnish the Order with Ships sufficient to carry them and their Subjects to Candy. That they should carry off as many of their great Guns as they could Load That the Castles of St. Peter, Lango, and the other Islands and Fortresses belonging to the Order shall be surrendered to Solyman. After that Achmat sent into the City 400 Janissaries with an Aga to take possession, and the Grand Master sent into the Camp for Hostages 25 Knights, and as many Citizens, who were by Achmat courteously entertained.  
In the mean time Achmat came to visit the Grand Master in that Moat of the Spanish Post, were after some discourse between them, he gave the grand Master Notice that Solyman was desirous to see him, and therefore advised him, as his best course, to go and wait upon him. The Grand Master unwilling to provoke Solyman, and to give him any occasion to break his word, by being severe either to the Knights or the Rhodians, resolved to follow Achmats' advice. The next morning therefore he went, in a plain habit, accompanted with several of the Knights; and after he had attended for some time before Soliman's Tent, he was presented with a noble Vest, that Solyman gave him; which so soon as he had put on, he was introduced into the Grand Signiors Pavilion, and kissed his hand. Solyman received him, courteously, cheered him up, and told him by his interpreter, that it was a common thing to lose or gain Cities and Signiories through the Instability of Fortune; exhorted him to take his loss patiently, and assured him of a most punctual performance of all his promises. Then turning to his own people. I cannot but pity, said he, this brave Man, whom in his Old Age, Necessity thus compels to abandon the Seat of his own Dominion. The Grand Master returned him thanks, besought him to remember what he had promised, and so taking his leave, retired. Solyman caused him to be guarded into the City, and gave habits of honour to all the Knights that attended him.  
Three days after Solyman himself road to view the Trenches, the Batteries, the Breaches, and the Tower of St. Nicholas. Upon his return he entered the Palace attended only by Achmat, and Ibrahim, than a Page, but highly beloved by him, and asked for the Grand Master. When he saw him, he made a kind of offer to raise his Turban from his head with his hand, out of respect not permitting the Grand Master to make any obeisance to him below his dignity. Bidding him fear nothing, and telling him withal, if he had not time enough, he would allow him more. The Grand Master returned him thanks, but desired nothing more of him then to be mindful of his promise. Thereupon Solyman remounted, and having viewed the Church of St. John, returned to his Pavilion.  
Upon New-year's day the Grand Master having taken his leave of Solyman, and embarked as many of the choicest great Guns as the time would permit, attended by all the Knights, and as many of the best of the Citizens, who rather chose to follow his fortunes, then submit to the Tyranny of the Turks, went aboard the Galleys appointed to carry the disconsolate Train, and the best of their goods, and steered away for Candy.  
Thus did The Order of St. John lose Rhodes, after they had held and maintained it with so much constancy, so much Expense of treasure, and loss of blood, against the whole power of the Barbarous Mahometans, for the space of two hun-and thirty years.   
FINIS.