THE PRESENT STATE OF DENMARK.  
By GVY MIEGE, Author of the New Cosmography, or Survey of the whole World.  
LONDON, Printed for Tho. Basset, at the George in Fleetstreet, near St. Dunstan's Church. 1683.   

To His Royal Highness, THE MOST ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE GEORGE, THE KING of Denmark's only Brother.  
May it please Your Royal Highness,  
THE Liberty I take to offer You this Work is not out of Presumption. It is a Debt I come to pay, an Homage I come to render to Your ROYAL HIGHNESS. 'Tis Your R.H. has occasioned it, upon the News of your happy Marriage with the Princess. Which has diffused so great a Joy through the whole Nation, that it had certainly broke out into Extraordinary and Public Demonstrations, at any other Conjuncture. However, it has created a Desire to know the estate of a Kingdom, which has given us so Illustrious a Prince by his Birth, so famous for his Courage, and so Amiable by that Sweetness of Disposition which has already gained him so many Hearts in this Realm. Therefore, to satisfy the Public, I have undertaken this short Description of the State of Denmark; in writing of which, I had the advantage of speaking well of Denmark, without having need to flatter. And I am persuaded, it will be so much the more Acceptable to Your ROYAL HIGHNESS, and the Public. If it shall have the Fortune to please, 'twill be no small Satisfaction to me, and I should think myself very happy to have done Something that had the Honour to be approved by so great a Prince. For whom my Prayers to Heaven shall be, to pour down its most benign Influences upon Your ROYAL HIGHNESS, to crown your Marriage with a glorious Offspring, that this happy Alliance may prove an eternal Bond of Amity between the two Kingdoms of England and Denmark, and that Your ROYAL HIGHNESS may all the days of your Life be the Delight of your Friends and Terror of your Enemies. I humbly beg of Y. R. H. to accept of these Marks of the Zeal I have for your Service, and to believe that none can be with more Veneration than I am  
YOUR ROYAL HIGHNESS' Most humbly devoted Servant, GVY MIEGE   

READER,  
HERE you have a Short, but Comprehensive, Description of the State of Denmark, which may be called Multum in Parvo. The Occasion for Writing of it is easy to guests at. Before the late Marriage of GEORGE, Prince of Denmark, with the Lady AND, the English had no other Interest in that Country but that of a Northern Trade. And the Truth is, few People minded it, but such as traded that Way. But now these two Crowns are come to a closer Union, 'tis worth our while to look back, and to consider the State of that Monarchy, wherein the English Nation has so great an Interest in the Prince's Person. A Monarchy which has been in former times most formidable both to France and England; and which has to this day the Command of the Baltic, in a far better manner than the Venetians can pretend it of their Gulf. A Monarchy of great Latitude, if we consider all the accessary Estates to the Crown of Denmark, as the Kingdom of Norway, with the Isles of Schetland, Feroe, and Iseland; besides the Coast of Groenland in Terra Polaris Arctica, and New-Denmark in the Northern America. In Germany, West of the Duchy of Bremen, the King of Denmark has got of late years the fruitful Counties of Oldenburg and Delmenhorst. In afric he has Frederixburg, upon the Coast of Guinea; besides some Holds in Asia. As for the Kingdom of Denmark itself, which is the main Thing of all, I have had the advantage of knowing the Country; not only by reading Authors upon that Subject, but also by my own Experience, when I was there an Attendant on the Right Honourable the Earl of Carlisle in his Northern Embassy's. What material Changes have happened there since, I got out of my Memoires. So that you have really, in this small Tract, the State of Denmark both Ancient and Modern. Wherein you will find not only Geography, but a great deal of History both Civil and Natural.  
POSTSCRIPT. Upon the finishing of this Book at the Press, I was not a little surprised to see another get the start of it; being of this very size, upon the same Subject, and bearing the same Title. The Style whereof might have been more polite, the Matter better digested, the Impression much neater, and the Faults less numerous, had not the Book (as I am informed) been hurried into the World, for the preventing of This. But some People will run, though they make more Haste than good Speed.   

ERRATA.  
PAge 7. l. 2. for was read has. p. 10. l. 12. for upon r. of. p. 17. l. 13. & 14. r. most part. p. 31. l. 16. blot out formerly. p. 108. l. 23. r. 64th. p. 111. last line, r. to drive. p. 127. l. 10. r. to the Czar.   

THE PRESENT STATE OF DENMARK.  
A Prefatory Discourse of the Rise and Progress of this Monarchy.  
THE State of Denmark, the Description whereof I take in hand, has been in former Ages a great and formidable State. Gotricus, or Godfrey, was the first King of Note that took upon him the Danish Government. Which happened in the Year of our Lord 797. And 'twas about this time that the Danes first began to infest the Coasts of England, that they invaded Frizeland with a Fleet of 200 Sail, and would have endangered the great Monarchy of France, if the Death of Godfrey, and the Quarrels that arose about the Succession after his Decease, had not kept them off.  
At last, their Affairs at home being composed again, they employed their whole Forces against England, as the weaker Enemy. This happened in the beginning of the ninth Century, that is, in the time of Egbert, the last King of the Westsaxons, and the first of England. Which being now reduced from a State of Heptarchy into that of a Monarchy, was unhappily disturbed by these new Guests. Who, having filled up the void Rooms of the Juites and Angles in Jutland, (formerly called the Cimbrick Chersonese) thought it convenient to follow them into Britain also. So that, next to the Saxons, the Danes were the most considerable Actors in the Stage of England. Where they continued about 225 years, during which time they first erected many small Sovereignties. Till, after several Checks given them by King Alfred, his Son Edward, and Athelstan Edward's Son, they were at last brought by King Edred under the English Government, and compelled by him to be christened. So that they lived with the English, mixed in Marriages and Alliance, and incorporated with them.  
But, toward the latter end of the tenth Century, in the Reign of King Ethelred, a weak Prince, the Danes began again to grow upon the English. Insomuch that the King was said to buy his Peace of them at the yearly Tribute of ten thousand Pounds, enhanced soon after to forty thousand. A vast Sum in those Times, which was raised upon the Subjects by the name of Danegelt. Till at last King Ethelred, weary of these Exactions, and willing to shake them off, plotted with his Subjects to kill all the Danes, as they slept in their Beds. Which Plot took effect, according to expectation, on St. Brice's night, Nou. 12. Anno 1012.  
Sueno was then King of Denmark, to which Crown he added Norway by Conquest. He, being a right Valiant Prince, heard no sooner of the Nocturnal Exploit of the English, but he prepared a mighty Fleet, in order to revenge so great an Outrage and Dishonour done to his Nation. He came over himself with his Fleet unto England, and the dreadful noise of his Approach compelled King Ethelred to fly. Away he goes into Normandy, leaving his poor Subjects to the Mercy of a cruel Invader, who breathed nothing but Revenge.  
The Danes, having thus, by the Valour and good fortune of Sueno their King, recovered their Power in England, obtained at last the Kingdom, in the Person of his younger Son Canute. A Temperate Prince, and who did really deserve the Title of Great. Besides the Crown of England, he got the Kingdoms of Denmark and Norway upon the Decease of his Brother Olaus, and conquered that of Sweden. Thus he was King of England, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.  
But, unhappily for his Posterity, he opened a way to their Exclusion from the Crown of England, when he sent back his Danish Forces into their Country. A very Impolitic Act, as if a Kingdom got by Force could be held by Favour.  
'Tis true he reigned twenty Years, and at his Death left the Crown of England to Harold his base Son. But then the Danes Interest here grew so weak, that in less than seven years this Crown returned to the Saxon Line.  
For King Harold reigned but four years, and died without Issue. To whom succeeded his Brother Hardy Canute, King of Denmark, who reigned here but about two Years, and was the last King of the Danish Race in England.  
Thus the Danes had here in all but three Kings of their Nation; viz. Canute the Great, and his two Sons Harold and Hardy Canute, who reigned here all three but about 26 years.  
To Hardy Canute succeeded his half Brother Edward, surnamed the Confessor, the seventh Son of Ethelred by Emma his Queen, Goodwin Earl of Kent being the main Instrument in setting him up. The Saxon Line being thus re-inthroned, we must now follow the Danes into Denmark, and take a view of their Transactions in the North.  
Canute the Second aforesaid had a Sister's Son called Sueno, who was his next Successor but one in Denmark. This Sueno restored the Kingdom of Norway to the Norvegians.  
But it was again united to Denmark in the Reign of Aquin King of Norway, by his Marriage with Margaret, Daughter of Waldemar the Third, King of Denmark; that is above three hundred Years ago. In which State it has continued ever since.  
Aquin being dead, his Widow, Queen Margaret, took up the Reins of the Government. And, not being contented with two Crowns, she ventured them to get that of Sweden, as a Crown that had gone away from her Ancestors, and that by course should have fallen to the share of her Husband.  
Albert of Mecklemburg was then King of Sweden. This Semiramis of the North challenges him as an Usurper, raises an Army against him, fights him, routs his Army, and takes the King Prisoner. So that Albert was fain to resign his Crown to Margaret as her due.  
This brave Queen, having thus united the three Kingdoms under her Command, caused an Act of State to be passed in Calmar, one of the chief Towns in Sweden, for the Perpetuation of this Union unto her Successors, the Law and Privileges of each Kingdom continuing as before they were.  
Her immediate Successor was Eric Duke of Pomeren, her own Sisters Son. Him she adopted for her next Heir, and he was accordingly chosen in her life time King of the three Kingdoms, into which he succeeded actually after her Decease Anno 1422. Having reigned about 27 years, he resigned his Kingdoms, Anno 1439.  
This Resignation was followed by an Anarchy, which lasted six years. At last, viz. Anno 1445, Christopher, Count Palatine of the Rhine, and Nephew of Eric (being the Son of Margaret, his Sister) was chosen by the joint Consent of all the States of these Kingdoms. He reigned but three years, and died without Issue. Whereupon the Swedes grown weary of the Danish Government, broke the foresaid Agreement made at Calmar, and chose a King of their own.  
The Danes on the other side, considering the great Advantage they had got by the Addition of Norway, pitched upon Adolph Duke of Sleswick and Earl of Holstein, for the next Successor; that they might get in those Estates to their Kingdoms. But he excused himself by reason of his Age and want of Children, and commended to them Christiern Earl of Oldenburg, his Nephew and next Heir, who was accordingly chosen, An. 1448. Adolph dying some years after, King Christiern succeeded him in the Estates of Holstein and Sleswick, continuing ever since united unto that Crown. And from this Christiern the Succession was hitherto continued in his Line.  
As for the Crown of Sweden, 'tis true the Danes recovered it in the time of the said Christiern. For Charles Canute King of Sweden, whom the Swedes had chosen on the Death of Christopher King of Denmark and Sweden, being upon discontent fled to Dantzick where he ended his days, Christiern was called in by a Party of the Swedes, and crowned King of Sweden. But he was outed again, under colour that he had not kept Conditions with them.  
Christiern dying Anno 1482. his Son John succeeded him; and the Swedes, then overpowred by the Moscovites, received him as their King. But, their turn being served, they expelled him also.  
To John succeeded Anno 1513. his Son Christiern the Second, the Nero of the North, who recovered once more the Crown of Sweden. But he used his Subjects so insolently at home, and his Victory in Sweden so cruelly, that he was driven out of Denmark by his Uncle Frederick, and out of Sweden by Gustave Eric, descended from the ancient Kings of Sweden.  
Thus the Danes recovered no less than three times the Crown of Sweden, till they were utterly dispossessed of it by the foresaid Eric, Anno 1523; in whose House it has continued ever since.  
And such is the Vicissitude of humane Affairs, that, whereas in former Ages the Crown of Sweden was subject to Denmark, in this our Age that of Denmark was twice reduced to such straits by the Swedes, that the whole Kingdom of Denmark was in a manner confined within the Walls of Copenhagen, and then in the greatest Distress imaginable. All which happened within the compass of four years, viz. in the years 1657. 1658. 1659. 1660, under the late Reigns of Charles the Ninth King of Sweden, and of Frederic the Third, King of Denmark The History of which Wars you will find accurately written by Sir Roger Manley. A prodigious History, and scarce to be parallelled by any. Where you will find those two Kings fight hand to hand for no less than a Crown, the King of Sweden with a wonderful Resolution and continued Successes, the King of Denmark with an undaunted Courage and indefatigable Endeavours to beat back so swift an Invader, and stop him in his Career.  
Whereupon a Treaty, by the Mediation of England, was concluded at Roschild, in the Month of February 1658. By which Treaty the King of Sweden was to restore the Places he had taken from the Danes, and were then possessed by him. And the King of Denmark, in consideration of the said Restitution, as also for a Recompense of the Damages caused by this War, did give and grant to his Majesty of Sweden, and his Heirs for ever, the Country of Schonen, with the incorporate Provinces of Halland and Bleking; besides the Island of Bornholm, together with the Castles, Towns, and Territories of Bahuys and Drontheim in Norway, the Secular and Ecclesiastic Jurisdiction which the King of Denmark had over some Places in the Isle of Rugen, and all Places whatsoever taken from the Swedes during this War. Those were Bremerford, a good place in the Duchy of Bremen; the Bellemore Sconce, lying upon the Elb; and the Leher Sconce, commanding the Weser. The taking of which, whilst the Swedes were deeply engaged in Poland, was the Occasion of this unhappy War to the Crown of Denmark.  
To which I shall only add this material Article granted by King Frederick to King Charles by the said Treaty, viz. That all Swedish Ships whatsoever in the Sound and Belt are by virtue of the said Treaty to be free and exempted from all Customs, Inquisitions, Visitation, Arrest, or any other Molestation whatsoever, producing only a right Sea-pass in the King of Denmark's Custom-Houses of Elsineur and Newburg.  
By this Treaty 'tis plain that King Frederick was a great Loser, and yet a great Saviour, considering the desperate Posture of his Affairs in that Juncture of time, His Crown was clipped, but still he had a Crown. And 'tis observable, that the two Kings upon this Treaty had a friendly Interview, with plain dealing, and little or nothing of Royal Formality. The Relation of which I shall have occasion to give you in another Place.  
And yet soon after this the War broke out again. For King Charles, pretending that King Frederick had not performed his Articles, prepared for a second Invasion upon Denmark; and did it with so much Prudence and Secrecy, that (whilst some thought him gone towards Prussia, others towards Pomeren, but none towards Denmark) he came from Wismar to Oldeslo, then to Kiel in Holstein, from thence by Sea to Corsoer in Seland, and so strait before Copenhagen, in August 1658.  
My Design is not to give you the particulars of this famous Siege, which is already so well done in the forementioned History. Only I shall tell you in general, that the Pate of Denmark depended now (if ever) on the invincible Courage and Conduct of King Frederick. Who, upon the sight of these unexpected Invaders, being prompted to make a timely Retreat into Norway or Holland, declared with a Royal Magnanimity, that he would live and die in his Nest, and not survive the Fate and Glory of his Country.  
In short, this War continued as long as King Charles lived. And, though a Treaty was on foot to be influenced by the Mediation and Sea-Forces of England and Holland; yet the Business was so carried on, that no Treaty was made till after the Death of King Charles. Who dying in the Year 1660. of a malignant Fever, at Gottenburg in Sweden, left his Crown and Conquests to Charles his Son, the present King of Sweden.  
Soon after his Death, the Treaty of Peace was concluded, much upon the Basis of the Roschild Treaty. But the Government of Drontheim in Norway was by this Treaty restored to King Frederick. Who died February the 9th. in the Year 1670, being 61 years old.  
Since that time there has been another Rupture betwixt these two Northern Crowns, in the late Wars which have imbrued Europe in so much Blood. Where both the present King of Denmark Christiern V and the Illustrious Prince George his only Brother, have given such proofs of their Personal Valour as becomes the Royal Issue of so magnanimous a Prince as King Frederick. 'Twas in this War, that the Swedes were routed out of Germany. Pomeren they lost to the Elector of Brandenburg, Wismar in Mecklemburg and several Places in Schonen to the King of Denmark. Where the Danes overpowred them frequently in Field-Fights and in Sieges, neither did they come off less triumphantly at Sea. And, though the most Christian King forced the Danes at last, as well as Brandenburg, to a Restitution; yet they had the satisfaction of having revenged in some measure their former Quarrel with the Swedes. So true it is, that of all humane Things, none is more subject to Vicissitude than the Issues of War.  
Thus having brought this Monarchy from the first Rise thereof to its present State, through a continued Series of the most material Changes; I shall now, with all the clearness and brevity I can, prosecute my main Design. In order to which I must in the first place give an Account of Denmark, then of Norway, and lastly of some other Estates and Dominions belonging to this Crown.  

Of DENMARK, in general.  
THE Kingdom of DENMARK lies East from Scotland and the North of England, at least 300 miles by Sea the nearest Parts. The same is called Denmark, or Danemark, i. e. the Country of the Danes, whose Original you shall hear of afterwards.  
The best and greatest Part of it is the Peninsule called Jutland, otherwise the Cimbrick Chersonese from its ancient Name Cimbrica Chersonesus. The rest does consist of Islands, the principal of which are Seland and Funen.  
As to the Country of Schonen, formerly part of Denmark; 'twas by the Roschild Treaty transferred to the Crown of Sweden, and incorporated with it. So that it does not belong to my Subject.  
The whole Country is almost surrounded with the Sea, nothing but the South Parts of the Peninsule bordering upon any Land. The Peninsule lies Westward, and the Islands Eastward. The Ocean goes round about that, as far as the little Belt, which parts it from Funen. Situate it is betwixt the fifty fourth and fifty ninth Degrees of Northern Latitude, and consequently altogether in the Northern Temperate Zone; the Skau, or Skagen (which is the most Northern Point of Denmark) being no less than eight Degrees and a half distant from the Arctic Circle, where gins the Frigid Zone. Accordingly there the longest day is somewhat above 18 hours; and at Altena, near Hamburg in the South Parts of the Chersonese, not quite 17. In short, this Country lies parallel to all that Tract of Ground which is from Hull in Yorkshire to Dornock in the furthest Parts of Scotland. At 20 Leagues, or 60 miles a Degree, the whole Length in a direct Line comes to about 80 Leagues, or 240 miles.  
As the Ocean parts Denmark from England and Scotland, so the Baltic parts it from Sweden. This is the Sinus Codanus of the Ancients, otherwise called Mare Suevicum, and now Mare Balticum, from the name of Baltic, whereby we now call it. The Dutch call it Die Belt, or else host Zee, that is the East-Sea.  
There are three several Passages into it from the Ocean, all of them under the Command of the King of Denmark. The general, safest, and most usual Passage is the famous Straight called the Sound, betwixt the East parts of Seland and the West of Schonen in Swethland. Which is so great a Passage, that there comes often 200, sometimes 300 Sail of Ships, in one day. The same is hardly four miles over, where it is narrowest. The second Passage, or Inlet, lies West of that, betwixt the Isles of Seland and Funen. This is some sixteen miles over, from Korsoer to Newburg. And it is called Beltsound, or the Great Belt, to distinguish it from Middlefare (or the lesser) Belt. Which is the most Western and narrowest Passage, lying betwixt Funen and Jutland, not above two miles over.  
From these three straits, lying East and West, the Baltic Sea widens itself, and runs a good way East-Northward, till it divides itself into two long Gulfs, one running North, and the other East. The first of which is called Bothn-Zee, or the Gulf of Bothnia, from a Province of that name in Sweden; and the other Finnich-Zee, or Finland-Gulf, from another Province of that Name belonging likewise to Sweden, which Province separates those Gulfs from one another.  
Northward, this Sea runs all along Sweden. Southward it washes part of Denmark, the North Parts of Mecklemburg and Pomeren in Germany, Curland in Poland, Livonia and Ingria both belonging to Sweden. So that it may be called the Mediterranean of the North. This Sea has no visible Tide, and swarms in many Places (especially towards the Sea Coasts) with Islets, Shelves, and Rocks, which make the Navigation in those Parts very hazardous. Most commonly in Wintertime 'tis so frozen up, that the Ships are Ice-bound in their Harbours.  
About the latter end of January, Anno 1658, the Cold was so intense, and so very violent beyond the memory of Man, that the Sea became a solid Bridge of Ice. Insomuch that King Charles of Sweden, who looked upon it as a singular Providence that made way to his Greatness, resolved to march out of Jutland into Funen over the Frozen Sea, against the sense of his chief Officers. A prodigious, but yet successful Attempt.  
Not a Night passed, saith my Historian, wherein he did not send his Spies into the Island, and his Scouts to discover the firmness of the Waters. 
Hist. of the late Wars in Denm. p. 6.  Which being at length reported to be strong enough, save only a small but long Rent of scarce five Foot broad, he gave orders to March. But first he commanded a great quantity of Planks, Posts, Hurds, and the like Materials to be brought thither and laid, to make a Bridge over the said Breach. The Ice breaking, two Troops of Waldecks Regiment fell in, and several other single Troopers were drowned. Which forced the Army to rush on with more vigour, being too far engaged to retire, and the Danger behind them being greater than that in their Front. In short, they got to Funen, the Inhabitants whereof being thus strangely surprised made little or no Resistance.  
This great Success of King Charles prepared him for a second March over Sea, and the very sight of the Ice inflamed his Courage. To Seland he must go to surprise Copenhagen. And, though the nearest Way was over the great Belt, the Island Spro besides lying about half way; yet he thought fit to take another Course. He went from Funen to Langland, and so through Laland and Falster to Seland. By which means he secured all those Islands in his way, and surprised Seland at Warimburg, where no body dreamt of his Coming. From Warimburg, with an Army not consisting of above 7000. Horse and Foot, he made haste towards Copenhagen. Where I leave him, to proceed in my Description.  
By what is said, you may guests of the sharpness of the Air in Denmark. The Country being but narrow, and the several Parts of it severed from one another by the Interposition of the Sea, you cannot expect to hear of any great Rivers. The chief of them you may have an account of in the particular Descriptions we shall make. Mountains of any note I cannot find, in a Country for the part most plain, and little swelled with Mountains. In North-Jutland indeed there is a very high Mountain called Alberg, in which (as the Inhabitants believe, and report accordingly) are found some Marks and Remainders of the ancient Giants.  
In short, Denmark in general is a wholesome, brave, and fertile Country. It produces great plenty of Corn, and has such Pasture-Grounds for the feeding of Oxen, that (according to divers Authors) there are sent every year from hence into Germany above fifty thousand Oxen. On the other side, the green Forests and Woods feed innumerable Herds of Swine; where they eat their fill of Mast and Acorns, falling from the great Oaks and Beech-trees in abundance. But, besides this vile sort of , here is likewise a prodigious number of Horses and wild Deer, and especially Stags and Elks. Fish cannot be wanted in a Country sufficiently irrigated with Rivers, and so surrounded as it is with the Sea. But it is observable that in South-Jutland the Fields there do interchangeably yield both Fish and Corn. For once in three or four years the Natives let the Pools overflow the Land, for the Fish to eat up the Grass, and the Mud which is left behind to enrich the Soil. And then you may think they catch plenty of Fish.   

Of DENMARK in particular.  
And first of Jutland.  
AS this famous Peninsule was formerly called Cimbrica Chersonesus, from the Cimbri, the then Inhabitants of it; so it has since took the name of Jutland from the Juites, who peopled it next to the Cimbri. These were the People, who (together with the neighbouring Saxons) made a Conquest of the best part of Britain.  
At this time Jutland is divided into North and South Jutland. The first is subdivided into the four Dioceses (or Districts) of Alburg, Wiburg, Arhusen, and Ripen; and South-Jutland, into the Dukedoms of Sleswick and Holstein.  
The Diocese of Alburg takes up the most Northern Parts of this Peninsule, and is so called from Alburg the chief Place hereof; seated on the Southside of the Bay of Limfort, that Bay which opening Eastward crosses almost all the Peninsule, and makes in its way a good large Island called Mors. On the West of which Island is the Tract of Land called the Tie, or Tyland, as those Parts which lie North of the said Bay go by the name of Winsissel.  
The Diocese of Wiburg lies South of that; and is so called from Wiburg, the Episcopal See, situate on a River which runs Northward into the Bay of Limfort.  
South of that lies the District of Arhusen, so called from Arhusen, the chief place hereof. Situate East-Southward from Wiburg by the Sea side, and being a Port of good note, few miles above the lesser Belt. Opposite to which is Rinkoping on the Westside of the Peninsule, thirteen Leagues distant from Arhusen Westward, and ten from Ripen Northward. This is a noted Sea Port on the Germane Ocean.  
The Diocese of Ripen is the most Southern, and the largest of all. The same is so denominated from Ripen, the Episcopal See, seated on the Westside of the Peninsule, near the Germane Ocean, and fortified with a Castle. Under this Diocese there are no less than thirty Herets or Perfectures, 282 Parishes, seven walled Towns, and ten Royal Castles.  
Amongst these Towns I cannot but take a particular notice of Fredericksode. The taking of which by the Swedes (Nou. 4. Anno 1657.) under the Conduct of Marshal Wrangel, did not only give them the Plunder and Contribution of most part of Jutland, but also traced them the way for their further Conquests. This was a new Town, seated on the lesser Belt, endowed with many Privileges to invite Inhabitants, and fortified on the Landside. The Seaside, being pallisadoed from the adjoining Bulwarks as sar as deep Water, was counted strong enough. But the Swedes, under favour of the Darkness, and some false Alarms, broke down that wooden Fence; and, rushing in up to the Saddle-skirts in Water, took the Town by Storm. Where, besides 2000 slain, they made above 2000 Prisoners, whereof near 200 Officers. There they found no less than 33 Colours, and 80 Pieces of Canon, with other Store of Ammunition and Plunder.  
But the Swedes kept it little above a twelve Month in their hands. For, about the latter end of the following Year, the Emperor, the King of Poland, and the Elector of Brandenburg, being confederated together against the Swedes, in their own and the Danes behalf, they put the Swedish Forces in Jutland so hard to it, that they were fain to quit all their Holds there. Upon their quitting of this Place the Confederates resolved, but in vain, to pursue the Swedes into the Isle of Funen. Where they were so warmly received by the Defendants, that they were fain to retire before they could reach the shore. Here is also in this Diocese the Seaport of Colding, not above six mile's South-west of Fredericksode. The same is fortified with a Castle, called Arnsburg; and here is paid the Toll for the Horses and Oxen which pass this way for Holstein and Germany. This Town was taken from the Swedes, some time before Fredericksode, by Czernesky, who commanded the Polish Forces. Having forced the King's Palace, he put the whole Garrison to the Sword, reserving only the Governor and his Lieutenant to publish his Victory and their own Misfortune.  
I proceed now to South-Jutland, which (as I said before) comprehends the Dukedoms of Sleswick and Holstein. Though there are those, I confess, who look upon Holstein as no part (or Member) of Jutland, but as a Country of itself.  
The first is so called from Sleswick, the chief Place of it. Seated towards the end of a large Bay or Inlet of the Baltic, which runs half way the Peninsule Westward, and gives to Sleswick a fair and commodious Haven. The Dukedom was first erected by King Eric of Denmark, who gave it to Waldemar, great Grandchild of Abel a former King, Anno 1280, to be held by him under the Right and Sovereignty of the Kings thereof, But, the Male Issue failing, it returned to the Crown, and was by Margaret Queen of Denmark conferred on Gerard Earl of Holstein, Anno 1386. Afterwards repenting of that Act, she extorted it out of the hands of his Widow; but it was again recovered by the Valour and good Fortune of his Son Adolphus. After whose Death, it fell together with Holstein to Christiern of Oldenburg King of Denmark, by whom it was incorporated with that Crown.  
Next to Sleswick there are other Places of good note in this Dukedom. As Gottorp, near Sleswick, a strong Castle, and the usual Residence of the Dukes of Holstein Gottorp, of the Royal Family of Denmark. Frederickstad, on the River Eyder, some fourteen mile's West of Gottorp. Tonningen, a strong Fortress, not above eight miles from that to the Westward, and seated also on the River Eyder not far from its Influx in to the Germane Sea; but lately dismantled by the King of Denmark.  
The River Eyder is the chief of this Peninsule, and was the ancient Boundary betwixt the Saxons and the Danes. It rises above Rensburg, and parts all the way it runs the Dukedoms of Sleswick and Holstein. 'Tis from this River that the said Duke of Holstein's Country, from Tonningen as far as Husum, is called Eyderstede.  
Now Husum lies almost full North of Tonningen, commodiously seated on a Bay of the Germane Sea, and fortified with a Castle. Both this Place and Tonningen, as well as Frederickstad, did lately belong to the Duke of that Name.  
North-East from Husum you will find Flensburg, a noted Town with a Castle on a Bay of the Baltic Sea, called Hever Bay. There is a Port so deep, so safe, and so commodious, that the very Ships come up close to the Houses almost every where. Further North is Apenrade, likewise on the Baltic Sea. Six or seven miles further you will find Hadersleben, a Town of good note, near the Baltic, and over against the Island of Funen; beautified with the fair Castle of Hansburg, begun to be built by John, the eldest Son of King Christiern I. then Duke of Holstein, but finished by Frederick II. King of Denmark. This Town and Castle was in the forementioned Wars twice taken by the Swedes, but at last restored with the rest. There is one Town more in these Parts I thought fit to take notice of; and that is Tondern, near the Germane Sea, almost opposite to Apenrade aforesaid on the Baltic.  
Betwixt Sleswick and Flensburg is a Territory that goes by the Name of Anglen. From whence England has got its denomination, ever since King Egbert (whose Ancestors perhaps were born in this Tract of Land) caused this Kingdom to be called Engel-lond (afterwards turned into England) in a Parliament held at Winchester, Anno 814. So that the English Nation is not only originally descended from the Saxons and Danes, but the very Name of England has its original from thence. And, if there ought to be any Ties of natural Friendship betwixt two Nations sprung up from the same Root, it must be betwixt these Nations; especially, considering the Uniformity of Manners, the Congruity of Religion as to the main Points, and the stricter Union of both Crowns by such Royal Matches on both sides as makes the same Blood run in the Veins of both the Royal Families.  
I said before, that the River Eyder was the ancient Boundary betwixt the Saxons and the Danes. But 'tis observable besides, that in Imitation of the Picts Wall in England, there was within few miles South of Sleswick a long Trench and Wall from the one Sea to the other; so broad, that a Chariot or two Horsemen a breast might ride upon it. The same was first built by Gotricus (or Godfrey) King of Denmark, in the time of Charles the Great; either to stop the Current of his Victories, or to hinder the daily Incursions of the Saxons. The Tract thereof, still very easy to be seen, is called Danewark to this day.  
South of the Dukedom of Sleswick lies that of Holstein. A woody Country, called Holstein, from the Dutch word Holt, which signifies a Wood or Forest. The River Eyder divides it Northward from Sleswick. Westward it is bounded partly with the Elb, and Eastward with the Baltic. The River Elb, one of the five great Rivers of Germany, divides it from the Dukedom of Bremen, and further Southward it is bounded with the Dukedom of Saxen Lawemburg.  
This Country is divided into four principal Parts, viz. Dithmarsen Northwestward, Holstein properly so called, Stormaren Southward, and Wagerens North-castward.  
First Holstein specially so called (together with Stormaren) was made an Earldom by the Emperor Lotharius, Anno 1134. in the Person of Adolph Earl of Schomburg, who had deserved well of him in his Wars. And, when Christiern Earl of Oldenburg was called to the Crown of Denmark, Anno 1448, he having gotten Dithmarsen of the Emperor Frederick the Third, prevailed so far as to have the whole Estate erected into a Dukedom, to be held by him and his Successors of the sacred Empire.  
The famous Hanse-Towns of Hamburg and Lubeck, that on the Elb and this on the Trave, both on the Borders of Holstein and Germany, are reckoned as Towns of Holstein; though neither of them subject to the King of Denmark, nor to the Dukes of Holstein.  
Hamburg is of that part of Holstein which is called Stormaren, about sixteen Germane miles from Bremen in Germany, six East of Staden, and eight West of Lubeck. It is built at the Influx of the Alster into the Elb, in a large Plain, with fat and rich Pastures round about it, the Ships coming up to it a great way with the Tide. This is an ancient City, great, populous, beautiful, and rich, and a Place of vast Trading. There is the old and new Town, both surrounded with good Walls, and well fortified. The Buildings for the most part are of Brick, the Streets somewhat narrow, but the public Structures very fair; especially the Council-house, adorned with the Statues of the nine Worthies, carved with very great Art; then the Exchange or Meeting-place for Merchants; and amongst the Churches S. Nicolas and S. Catharines' Church, this last having a marble Chair with Figures of Alabaster, and Ornaments of Gold most delicately wrought. It is observed, (says Heylin) that there were in this Town at one time 177 Brewers, when there was but forty Bakers, one Lawyer, and one Physician. The Reason of which Disproportion was, that a Cup of Nimis was their usual Physic; that Bread was counted a Hinder, and so not to be used but in case of Necessity; and that their Differences were sooner ended over a Can than by course of Law. This formerly was the Staple Town for English Cloth, from whence on some Discontents it was removed to Stade, and at last to Holland.  
Anciently Hamburg was an Archbishops See, founded by Charles the Great; but transferred to Bremen, Anno 850, with the Consent of Lewis the then Emperor. Moreri says, that Hamburg was sometime subject to the Archbishops of Bremen, that afterwards the Hamburgers were under particular Lords of their own, and at last came to be under the Dukes of Holstein. But Heylin, having told us that this City was repaired by Charles the Great, and walled by the Emperor Henry the Fourth, says further, that it was accounted since that time an Imperial City, and made one of the Hanse, upon the first Incorporating of those Towns. Which notwithstanding, upon a Controversy arising about that time betwixt the Earl of Holstein and the People of Hamburg, this Town was adjudged to belong to the Earls of Holstein, and that Determination ratified by Charles the Fourth, Anno 1374. In pursuance whereof, the Hamburgers took the Oath of Allegiance to Christiern Earl of Oldenburg (the first King of Denmark of that House) as Earl of Holstein, acknowledging him and his Successors for their lawful Lords. But since that time they have slipped their Necks out of the Collar, and having took upon themselves to live as a free State, they only pay some small Duty to the King of Denmark as Duke of Holstein; and that rather by way of a Toll upon the account of Gluckstad that lies betwixt Hamburg and the Mouth of the River Elb, than on any other account. However, the King of Denmark seems to have a just Claim to Hamburg; and he never draws near it with any Forces, but the Hamburghers, jealous of their Liberty, and perhaps conscious of their Gild, put themselves into a Posture of Defence. In order to which, besides their constant Garrison, and the promised Assistance of the rest of the Hanse-Towns upon all occasions, they can raise about fifteen thousand Citizens in Arms to stand for their Liberty.  
Lubeck, the chief of all the Hanse Towns, was at first but a goodly Borough, which Adolphus Earl of Holstein built Anno 1143. in the time of the Emperor Conrade III. But it was so well privileged by the said Earl and his next Successors, that in a short time it bid defiance to its Founders, and was made a Dukedom of itself. By the Emperor Frederick I. it was united to the Empire, but after his Death they chose themselves another Duke. Who, having governed them five Years, was subdued by the Danes, and the City made subject to that Kingdom. In which Condition they remained, till delivered by the Emperor Frederick TWO, by whom being enfranchised again, it became Imperial, and was afterwards listed amongst the Hanse Towns. Anno 1500. John, King of Denmark, attempted to reduce this City under his Obedience; which War broke out again in the year 1509, and then the Swedes espoused the Lubeckers Quarrel. Anno 1547, in Charles the fifth's time, they sent their Deputy's to the Emperor, to get a Continuation of their Privileges, for which they presented his Imperial Majesty with 100000 Crowns. Anno 1562. they engaged in a War with Eric King of Sweden, which War continued till the year 1570. Ever since this City has been in a flourishing Condition. And, though it has been burnt down several times, particularly in the year 1238, yet it raised itself always out of its Ashes.  
'tis built upon all the sides of a rising Hill, on the top whereof stands the Church of St. Mary, whence is a descent to all the Gates of the City, affording to the eye a most pleasing Prospect. The Buildings are very beautiful, and all of Brick, the Streets straight and even, the Churches (Ten in number) in good repair, adorned with excellent Imagery, and much admired even by skilful Workmen. From the public Conduit a pipe of Water is conveyed to every House; according to the Pattern whereof the Conduits were first made in London, and other Places. In a word, says Heylin, there is not any City of Germany, or the more Northern Country's, which can equalise it, either for the Beauty and Uniformity of the Houses, the pleasant Gardens, fair Streets, and delightful Walks without the Walls; or for the Citizens themselves, who are much commended for their Civility to Strangers, and strict execution of Justice without Partiality. To which purpose I shall here subjoin the clear Testimony of Lindebergius and another Poet. The first speaks of it thus.  

Gens humana, Situs, Commercia, Littora, Mores,  
Mars, Toga, Divitiae, Curia, Religio,  
Arctoas inter claras Virtutibus Vrbes  
Efficiunt tollat tanta Lubeca Caput;  
Et Decus Europae, & lumen sit totius Ansae,  
Et sit Vandalici pulcra Corona Soli.   
The other thus.  

Traverna leni descendimus amne Lubecum,  
Vrbis post paucas Munimina cernimus horas.  
Ingressi verò Portas miramur & Aedes,  
Arte laboratas omnes, Cultumque Domorum  
Eximium, Merces, amplissima Strata Viarum.  
Denique longè alias omnes quas vidimus Vrbes  
Haec superat, etc.   
The same is seated on the borders of Holstein, Lawemburg, and Mecklemburg, and particularly in that part of Holstein which is called Wagerens, not above two Germane miles distant from the Baltic. The River Trave, which runs through the midst of it, carries Ships of the greatest burden; and such is the Trade of this Place, that it is thought above 600 Ships of all sorts (some of a thousand Tun and upwards) belong to it. Near the River's Mouth is the Fort called Travemund. Anno 1162, the Bishops See of Oldenburg was formerly transferred to this Place; the present Bishop being of the Duke of Holstein Gottorp's Branch. To conclude, Lubeck lives in the form of a Commonwealth, and has made a strict Alliance with the State's General of the United Provinces; who included this Town in the seventy second Article of their Treaty with Spain, Anno 1648.  
Next to Hamburg and Lubeck, the most noted Places in Holstein, and first in Wageren, are Segeberg, near the head of the River Trave, four Germane Miles from Lubeck; Oldislo, on the same River, betwixt Segeberg and Lubeck; Newstat, on the Baltic; Oldenburg, North of that; and Ploen upon a Lake, fortified with a Castle, and belonging to a Prince of the House of Holstein, from hence called the Duke of Holstein Ploen.  
Secondly, in Stormaren, Pinnemberg, two leagues North of Hamburg; Crempen, on a little River of that name, which falls not far off from hence into the Stoer, and both together not much further into the Elb. A Town well fortified by King Christiern the Fourth, and reckoned one of the Keys of that Kingdom. Gluckstad, on the River Elb; which Place was likewise repaired and fortified by Christiern the Fourth, to command the Passage up the Elb.  
Thirdly, in Ditmarsen, Meldorp, on the Ocean; the Inhabitants of which are so wealthy, that many of them cover their Houses with Copper; Brunsbuttel, at the Mouth of the River Elb; Heide, five mile's North of Meldorp; and Lunden, further North, on the bank of the Eyder.  
Fourthly, in Holstein specially so called, Rensburg, a Place well fortified. Kiel, four leagues East of Rensburg, situate on a Bay of the Baltic, and having a capacious Haven, seldom without good store of Shipping from Germany, Sweden, and Denmark. This Town belongs to the Duke of Holstein. 'Tis fortified with a Castle, and here the Duke keeps his Courts of Judicature. It suffered much by the Wars of Sweden and Denmark, in the late King's Reign. Bordesholm, on the North end of a Lake; not much observable, but for a Monastery, in which Henry, one of the Earls hereof (of a younger House) turned Monk, and died Anno 1241. Itzehoe, on the River Stoer, bordering upon Stormaren.  
Amongst all the aforesaid Towns, Kiel, Lunden, Heide, Oldenburg, Ploen, Bordesholm, and a few others of less Note, belong to the Dukes of Holstein.  
But 'twill not be improper to take notice that Wageren took its name from the Wagrii, a Tribe (or Nation) of the Sclaves, who possessed this Tract; Stormaren, from the River Stoer and the Marsi, once the Inhabitants hereof; and Ditmarsen, from a Mixture of the Dutch and the Marsi. These last, being naturally of the Saxon Race, retain much of the Stomach and Animosity of the ancient Saxons; and never were brought under the Command of the Earls of Holstein, (as Wagerens and Stormaren were) till Holstein itself was joined to the Crown of Denmark. And, though it was aliened from the Empire by Frederick the Third, and given in fee to Christiern Earl of Oldemburg the first King of that House, Anno 1414; yet would they not submit unto his Authority, but held it out against him, and some of his Successors, whom in the year 1500. they vanquished in the open Field. But they were at last subdued by the Valour of King Frederick the Second, Anno 1550.  
To conclude, Holstein came to be subject to the King of Denmark in the Person of Christiern I. Who, being Earl of Oldemburg, was elected to that Crown; and, after the Death of Adolph Earl of Holstein, his Uncle by the Mother's side, (who died without Issue) Holstein came into his hands.  
But then Otho, Earl of Schomborg, pretended a Right unto it, as the next Heir Male, according to the Constitutions of the Empire, of which it was holden. On the other side Gerard, the Brother of Christiern, put in for his Share, according to the ill Custom of Germany, of which it was then counted part. So that King Christiern was fain to compound with both. To Otho he paid 43000 Florins, and left him withal such Places as were the ancient Possessions of the Earl of Schomborg. And to his Brother Gerard he gave 50000 marks, besides his whole Interest in the Earldom of Oldenburg, only reserving the Title, according to the fashion in Germany.  
By this means Holstein was united to the Crown of Denmark. Which being afterwards enlarged with the Addition of Ditmarsen, it was erected into a Dukedom, by the Emperor Frederick III Anno 1474. After which the Kings of Denmark, (as Dukes of Holstein) were counted Princes of the Empire. Though they neither send to the Imperial Diets, nor contribute any thing at all to the Public Taxes, nor acknowledge any kind of Subjection to it more than merely Titular. Only it was ordained, at the request of the Subjects, when first they were incorporated into that Kingdom, that in case of any Grievance or unjust Sentence in the ordinary Courts of Justice, wherein they found no remedy in the Supreme Council of the Province, it might be lawful for them to appeal to the Imperial Chamber, as they had done formerly. Which Grant has been so seldom made use of, that it is in a manner worn out of memory.  
But, since this Uniting of these two Estates, the Title of Duke of Holstein and a good Part of the Country was in a manner dismembered from the Crown, and given to Adolph, Brother of Christiern III, who governed it interchangeably with the King. Afterwards another part of this Country was bestowed upon John, younger Brother to Frederick II. Of which two Dukes, and their Successors, you shall have a further Account in its proper place.   

Of the Islands of DENMARK.  
And first of Seland and Funen.  
SEland, the principal Island of Denmark, and the greatest of the Baltic Sea, lies opposite to Schonen in Sweden, and is parted from it by the Sund, as it is from Funen Westward by the great Belt. The same (being the Codanonia of the Ancients) is a most pleasant and fruitful Island, extending from North to South, sixteen Germane miles, and from East to West about twelve. Now a Germane Mile is at the least as much as four English.  
The chief Place of this Island is Copenhagen, (Lat. Hafnia, Dan. Kiobenhaven) the Metropolis and usual Residence of the Kings of Denmark. A brave City, grown up from a small beginning. Hues (or Huido) Archbishop of Lunden and Bishop of Roschild, was the first who laid the Foundations of it in the Year 1165; when in the same place where now stands Copenhagen he caused a Fortress to be built against the Pirates that roved over this Sea, which Fortress was called by his Name Axel Hues. About which afterwards some Fishermen built themselves Cottages, and in process of time the richest sort of them erected not only Storehouses, but Dwelling-Houses, fit to receive the Merchants in who came to buy their Fish. This Commerce drew thither many more Inhabitants, to whom James Bishop of Roschild granted several Privileges and Immunities in the year 1254. Thus in succession of time this City, which at first was but a few fisher-men's Cottages, grew to that greatness, that it is now one of the most noble Cities of the North. To which several Kings of Denmark have greatly contributed by their Public Buildings, and granting the Citizens many great Privileges; but especially Christiern the Fourth, the present King's Grandfather, whose Memory is still cherished by the Inhabitants.  
Copenhagen, you must know, is seated upon the East-side of the Island, under the fifty sixth degree of Northern Latitude. Christiern the Fourth, having laid the Foundation of a new City in the little Isle of Amag (or Amager) joined it to the old by a Bridge, and called it by the name of Christierns Haven. He built also a goodly Magazine-house, and strengthened the City on the Island-side with Walls and Bulwarks. Thus Copenhagen is properly divided into two Parts, by that Inlet or Arm of the Sea which parts the old Town from the new. In the new Town, the less of the two, is the Royal Castle (a Fabric of ancient Structure) with large Ditches and high Walls about it. There is also the Mint, the Exchange, and the Arsenal, one of the finest in Europe. Wherein is seen that wonderful Celestial Globe, that has no less than six foot of diameter, the work of Tycho Brache the great Danish Astronomer. From this new Town there is a Passage to the old over several Bridges. Here the Streets are broad, and every where furnished with Storehouses. The principal Churches are S. Nicolas, the Holy Ghost, and S. Mary's Church; in which last is performed the Coronation of the Kings of Denmark. On this side also is seen the fine Port, the Citadel, the Custom-house, and the University. First founded by Eric (or Henry) the ninth, but perfected by King Christiern the first, and the succeeding Princes, by whom it was liberally endowed.  
The Island of Amag, which lies on the East-side of the Town, makes a very safe Road for all kinds of Shipping. So that the Haven is not only capacious, but most commodious and safe against all Winds of the Baltic Sea. The excellency whereof, as much as any thing else, has improved this City to that degree, that when the late King of Sweden came first before it in the year 57, he fell in love with her, and said she was a fair Bride worth dancing for.  
This City, as other great Towns, has not only been oppressed by Strangers, but has been also under the hard Circumstances of Civil Dissensions. For, taking part with Christiern II. against his Uncle Frederick, it was taken by Frederick, Anno 1522. And in the year 1536, after a years Siege, and the Calamity of War and Famine, it was forced to surrender itself to Christiern III. After that it enjoyed the Comforts of Peace for a long Series of Years, until Charles Gustave King of Sweden made War upon it. And, had he won this fair Bride, (as he sportingly used to call her) what a brave Dower had she brought him? But he was frustrated of his Expectations, as well by the great Courage and vigorous Resistance of King Frederick, as by the concurrent (but stinted) Assistance of such as were self-concerned in the Conservation of his Crown.  
Next to Copenhagen Roschild is a Place of good note; situate about the middle of the Island, four Leagues West of Copenhagen. 'Twas formerly a See Episcopal, the Bishops whereof had the honour of Crowning the Kings of Denmark. In the Cathedral Church are to be seen the Tombs of many of the Danish Kings, some of them very fair and sumptuous. This City is famous besides for the Treaty of Peace made here in the Year 1658. betwixt the Kings of Sweden and Denmark, upon the first Invasion of this Country by the Swedes.  
South and by West from Roschild, almost four Leagues off, lies Sora, another Town of Seland. Of old times beautified with a goodly Monastery, the Revenues whereof, at the Change of Religion, were converted to the Maintenance of a Free-School, built here by Frederick I. But in the year 1623. Christiern iv adding hereunto the Revenues of two other dissolved Monasteries, the one in the Isle of Laland and the other in Jutland, founded here a new University for the better Supply of Learned Men both for Church and State.  
Northward from Copenhagen you will find Elsinor or Elsineur (Dan. Helsingor) a noted Sea-Town, with a good Harbour to it. It lies about three League's North of Copenhagen, and not above a mile from the Sund.  
At the very Entrance of which Straight, and over against the Castle of Elsinburg in Schonen, is the famous Castle and Palace of Cronenburg, the strongest and most considerable Fortress of Denmark. Built with incredible Charge and Pains by King Frederick TWO, who laid the Foundations of it within the Sea. Into the bottom of which there was sunk a great number of huge Stones and Flints, locked together with great Oaken Piles, and those fastened with such Skill and Artifice, that no Storm or Tempest, (how violent soever) can shake it. From this Castle, which is in a manner the Key of the Baltic Sea, one may easily discern each Ship which sails through the Sund into or out of the Baltic. And here it is that all foreign Ships pay the Toll to the King of Denmark; except the Swedes, who got themselves off by the Treaty of Roschild. In short, such is the Strength of this Castle, and the narrowness of the Straight, that the first seems impregnable, and that by the addition of a few Ships the King of Denmark may keep the greatest Fleet that is from passing by him.  
But yet this very Castle was taken by the Swedes in the late King's time; and this famous Structure, the Product of eight years' Labour and vast Expense, fell in the space of three Weeks into the hands of Field-Marshal Wrangel. Which was principally effected by a Stratagem then used by the Swedes. Who, to increase the Terror of the Besieged, gave it out that Copenhagen was taken, and celebrated this pretended Conquest with the discharges of all their great and small Shot, with the Noises of their Drums and Trumpets, with Bonfires, and all other Demonstrations of Joy. Whereupon the Garrison was summoned, and threatened with all sorts of extremities, if they alone should be so confident as to continue to oppose their victorious Armies. The Governors, who were then no less than three (a stout Triumvirate) upon the sordid Suggestions of Fear, and a rash Credulity, surrendered this strong Place, Sept. 6. 1658. And yet they wanted neither Soldiers, nor Provisions, nor Ammunition; but instead of those they wanted indeed Courage, Discretion, and Fidelity. They were afterwards, says my Historian, condemned by a Council of War at Copenhagen to lose their Heads; but pardoned by the King's Clemency, and the Intercession of the Mediators for Peace. Tho the truth is, the loss of that Place was like to have lost Copenhagen, then closely besieged as it was, and consequently the whole Kingdom. So great and universal a Terror did the News of this unhappy Surrender strike in the Inhabitants, that now they looked upon themselves as irrecoverably ruined, and there was scarce any amongst them so resolute but was shaken at this fatal Truth. The Swedes on the other side were not little heightened with this Victory; whereby they found a great quantity of Gunpowder which they much wanted, and great Provision of Cannon and other Instruments of War. Neither did they doubt in the least but that Copenhagen would now quickly follow, being resolved now they were secure behind to attack it with their united Forces. But the Besieged re-assumed their wont Courage, and kept still the Swedes out of doors.  
About three leagues West of Cronenburg you will find Fredericksburg, a Royal and stately Palace, pleasantly seated on the North side of a Lake, among Woods of Beech. There was anciently a Castle, known by the name of Ebelholt, and an Abbey dedicated to the holy Ghost. King Frederick II. was the Founder of this Palace. It has a little Park about it, and therein (amongst other foreign Beasts) some fallow Deer, transported hither out of England in the Twenty fourth year of Queen Elizabeth. Afterwards the Palace was beautified by Christiern the Fourth with fine Statues and Pictures, and other pieces of rare Workmanship.  
But there's nothing that recommends this Place so much to the Memory of Man as the solemn Interview that happened here betwixt the late Kings of Sweden and Denmark, upon the Conclusion and Ratification of the Roschild Treaty. Thither both Kings went, says Sir Roger Manley; and, which is remarkable, without any previous Stipulation concerning Guards or Number of Followers (a Thing usually practised upon such Occasions;) but with a frank and Northern simplicity, either not mistrusting or unwilling to mistrust each other. King Frederick met his new Guest, coming from Roskild, about two miles from his House. Both Kings, being at a competent distance, alighted out of their Coaches at the same time; and, approaching on foot, saluted each other by joining their right hands with all the respect and obliging demonstrations of Kindness imaginable. And now, as if their late Enmity had been entirely forgot, they both entered the same Coach; Which being King Frederick's Coach, the King of Sweden stepped in first. There went with them Mr. Meadow the English Mediator, and the Duke of Holstein Sunderburg. The Entertainment at Frederixburg was as splendid and magnificent as the Place and Winter-season could afford. At Table the Queen of Denmark sat at the Board's end, the King of Sweden on the side at her right hand, as being the Guest, and next below him on the same side the King of Denmark. The Provision was sumptuous, the Order exact, and the Solemnity rare, to see two Kings at one Table, who had so little before been in Arms one against the other. It could not be but very pleasant to hear now those Trumpets and Kettledrums loudly proclaim Healths, which so lately denounced Death. In short, the Solemnity continued from Thursday to Saturday, both King's lodging two nights under the same Roof. At parting they exchanged Horses, and other Presents; and those Officers of the Danish Court, who were particularly appointed to attend the Swedish King, were nobly regalled by him. On Saturday he took his leave, and went to Elsinor, the King of Denmark accompanying him part of the way. From thence he passed the Sound, through the noise and smoke of the Canon of the two Castles of Cronenburg and Elsinburg, to take possession of his Purchase in Schonen.  
On the West side of the Island is Corsoer, situate on the great Belt over against Nyburg in Funen, and fortified with a Castle. Here August 8. Anno 1658. King Charles of Sweden landed his Army from Kiel in Holstein, in his second Expedition against Denmark, but five months after the aforesaid Interview of the two Kings at Frederixburg. And, though this Army was far greater in reputation than numbers, yet it met with little or no resistance. Those few Guards that were on the Coasts fled at first sight of the Fleet; and the Townsmen, dissembling what they durst not seem to fear, were fain to receive their Invaders as Friends. 'Tis true the Swedes endeavoured to make them believe, that they intended no hostility, but were come to assist the King of Denmark against the Designs of some of his rebellious Nobles. And therefore King Charles his chief care upon his Landing was to keep his Soldiers from plundering, and by quick sending out of Parties of Horse to suppress the Danish Troops which were quartered up and down the Island, or at least to hinder their Retreat into Copenhagen. Count Tott, Lieutenant-General of the Horse, led the Van; but the King himself did not stir till the day following. And, though his main hopes of Victory consisted in the quickness of his Motion, yet he marched but slowly. So that the noise of this Invasion fled to Copenhagen before him, and by his slow march he gave the Citizen's time enough to recollect themselves from their sudden terror, and take up Arms in their own defence.  
Sixteen mile's North of Corsoer stands another goodly Town by the Seaside, which is called Calemburg. In the South Parts of the Island you will find Schelsoer, Newsted, and Warburg or Warimburg, in which last King Charles set his first Footing in Seland in his first Expedition. There is also Koge, a fortified Place by the Seaside, about Ten mile's South-west of Copenhagen. Lastly, they reckon in this Island no less than 340 Villages.  
Funen or Fuinen (Lat. Fionia) is the next Island, both for bigness and goodness; and much like that, of an orbicular form. It lies between Seland and Jutland, parted from that by the great Belt, and from this by the little Belt. It is about Ten Germane miles long, and Eight broad, every where Pleasant and Fruitful. There are in it several good Towns, four Royal Castles, and 264 Villages, besides gentlemen's Houses.  
The principal Town of all is Odensee, seated in the very midst of the Island, half way betwixt Nyburg on the East and Middelfare on the West. Built by King Harald, and so named from Otho I. Emperor of Germany. 'Twas near this Place that Count Guldenlew, the late King of Denmark's natural Son (now Viceroy of Norway) was overtaken, being sick in his Coach, by Charles King of Sweden, in his first Expedition in these Parts. And in the Town itself he surprised five Danish Senators, and several other Fugitives. Which brought the whole Island into such a Consternation, that he became presently the absolute Master of this wealthy Province, and the whole Power of the Enemy in it. Which consisted of well nigh 5000 Soldiers and Armed Boors, 60 pieces of Cannon, and great Magazines of all sort of Military Provisions.  
The next Town of note is Nyburg, or Newburg, upon the great Belt, opposite to Corsoer in Seland; which is the usual Passage from the one Island to the other. Nybourg is furnished with a good capacious Port, and fortified with a Castle.  
Here is besides Cartemund, Bouvens, Middelfare, Assens, Vobourg, and Swenburg, all of them seated on some Haven, or convenient Creek. Amongst which Middelfare, which lies on the little Belt opposite to Nybourg on the great Belt, is a Place of good note; from whence the little Belt is also called the Middelfare Belt.  
Besides the Royal Castle of Nybourg, there are three other Castles; viz. of Hagenschow, Hinsgagel, and Escheburg. Not far from the first of these Castles is the Mountain of Ossenberg, where John Rantzovius Anno 1530. defeated the great Army of Christopher, the Brother of Anthony Earl of Oldenburg, coming in those unsettled times to invade the Kingdom, under colour of restoring Christiern II. formerly deposed. In which Fight the Earls of Hoye and Tecklemburg were both slain in the place, and the Kingdom after that in quiet from the like Pretenders.   

Of the lesser Islands of DENMARK, viz. Moon, Falster, Laland, Langeland, Alsen, Femeren, Bornholm, and others of less note, in the Baltic.  
IN the time of Pomponius Mela, says Heylin, most of the chief Islands of Denmark were by one general Name called the Hemodes, reckoned to be seven. Whereas Cluverius and Sanson are of Opinion, that the Ancients meant by the Hemodes the Isles of Schetland, some League's North of Scotland, and about the same Latitude as Bergen in Norway.  
But, to wave that, let us now take a Survey of the lesser Islands of Denmark. Moon, Faster, and Laland, lie pretty close together South of Seland, from which parted by a narrow Straight called Grone-sund. And, as Falster is bigger than Moon, so Laland is bigger than Falster.  
Moon, or Meun, is an Island about twelve miles long, and six broad, the chief Place whereof is Stekoe. The Swedish Forces that attempted it in April 1659., while the Siege laid before Copenhagen, found here greater Resistance than in any of the other Islands.  
Falster lies South-west from Moon, and is a plentiful Island. Nicoping is the chief Town herein, which for the neatness of the Place and pleasantness of the Situation, is called the Naples of Denmark. But this Island in the time of the Swedish War, run the same fortune with the rest, and was by the Swedes taken from the right Owner.  
Laland, the largest and fruitfullest of all these Islands, lies South-west of Falster. The chief Place thereof is Naskow, a Town well fortified; which held out most stoutly against the Swedes, when they entered this Island in April 1659. But at last wanting Powder, and hopeless of Relief, the Garrison was forced to surrender.  
Langeland is a long, but narrow Island, that lies within few miles East-Southward of Funen. It reaches in length from North to South almost seven Germane miles, and not above two in breadth from East to West. Here is the Town Rudcoping, and the Castle of Traneker. The Swedes took this Island in the Month of March 1659. under the Conduct of Field-Marshal Wrangel, and here they began that year the Conquest of these Islands. Which, being the Granary's and Storehouses of Copenhagen, afforded still fresh Supplies to it. And therefore King Charles, seeing no way of conquering Copenhagen but by the Conquest of these Isles, resolved to attempt them. Which he did successfully.  
Alsen is situate near the Eastern Coast of Sleswick in Jutland. An Isle well stored with Beasts for Profit, and Game for Pleasure. Here is the Castle of Norburg in the North Parts of the Island, and the stately Castle of Sunderburg Southward. Which last gives the Name to a Branch of the Royal Family of Denmark, the Duke of Holstein Sunderburg. This Island was taken by Wrangel next to Langland. At last, having landed his Men, he took the Castle of Norburg by Storm; but he assaulted Sunderburg thrice in vain. Therefore he quitted the Island again, and having pillaged the Coasts of Sleswick in his way, returned with his Prisoners and Prey to Funen.  
Femeren is another of these fruitful Islands, and the most Southern of all, being situate near the Coast of Holstein. Here is Borg and Stubern.  
Bornholm is a considerable Island, and the last of all the Baltic which belong to Denmark. The same is situate more Eastward, towards the farthest Parts of Bleking in Schonen. An Isle of excellent Pasturage, breeding plenty of . Here is a goodly Town called Nex, and a strong Castle named Sandhamer. This Island was formerly pawned to the Lubeckers, who had it in their Possession about fifty years; but King Frederick II. redeemed it. By the Treaty of Roschild it was left to the Swedes. But the King of Denmark has recovered it since, by giving an Equivalent of Royal Demeans in Schonen.  
Besides the foresaid Islands, which are the most considerable next to Seland and Funen, and as many Jewels to the Crown of Denmark, there are many others of less note and bigness.  
About Seland there is first Amag or Amager, lying on the Southeast side of Copenhagen, and containing that Part of it which is called the New Town. The Island is about six English miles long, and four broad, and may be called the City's Storehouse. For it furnishes its Markets abundantly with Meat, Butter, Cheese, Hares, domestic Fowl, and all sorts of Kitchen Herbs. There are in it several Villages, inhabited partly by Danes, and partly by Dutch. The latter planted here above 150 years since, by the Procurement of King Christiern II. who got them hither out of North-Holland, to make Butter and Cheese, as being most skilful in that mystery.  
When the Swedes lay before Copenhagen in their last Expedition, these Islanders got leave of King Frederick to live at their own Houses with their Provisions and , upon their Promises to guard the Avenues of the Island, and Assurance that they could not be so surprised but they should have time enough to retire, and send their  and Provisions (with their Wives and Children) beforehand into the Town. This my Historian calls an unseasonable Indulgence of the King, and it proved accordingly. For the Swedes came upon the Islanders before they were ware, so that they had scarce time to save their Persons and their .  
But the Swedes Stay in the Island was not long. For King Charles, having received certain Intelligence that the Dutch Fleet was coming for the Relief of Denmark, quitted his present Design, with a Resolution to oppose the Advance of these Succours. Whereupon, lest the Danes should overmuch rejoice at his Departure, he commanded all the Villages and Houses to be pillaged and burnt. A sad Spectacle for the Danes, who beheld it from their Walls and Towers with much Regret. But the King knowing Bewailing were fruitless, resolved to revenge this Violence. The Opportunity was fair, the Swedes being at that time dispersed through the Island, and intent only upon their Plunderings. Therefore the King himself marched out with his own Guards, besides 250 Horse, a few Dragoons, and a good Troop for the Reserve; some of the nimblest Foot having got up behind the Troopers. There marched out likewise four light Field-pieces, drawn each of them by single Horses. The Senators who were present would have dissuaded the King from hazarding his Person, in whose Safety their All did consist. But his Majesty knowing of what moment the Presence of Princes is in such Encounters, and hearing besides that the King of Sweden was in the Isle in Person, presently clapped Spurs to his Horse, and continued his way.  
The Swedes, being alarmed with this Appearance, drew into a Body near a Village called the Holland's Dorp, and were not in all above 400 Men, that is 300 Horse and 100 Foot. The Danes, finding them in this Posture, charged them bravely, and after some Resistance broke and routed them. Nay, Sir Roger Manley does not stick to say, that, if they had pursued them closely, they had in probability taken or slain King Charles himself. Who, together with the Prince of Sulzbach and Wrangel, were forced to a hasty Retreat, leaving above 100 of their Men behind them upon the Place. But the Danes, content with this Victory, and loath to endanger the losing on't by pursuing it, returned in Triumph into the Town, their Slain and Wounded not exceeding thirty.  
This Passage of the Wars I thought fit to insert, as much to exalt the personal Valour of King Frederick, as because it is so rare to see one King thus in chase of another.  
North of Amag, towards Elsinor, there is a little Island called Ween, not above three miles long and one broad. Remarkable only for the Studies of that famous Astronomer Tycho Brahe. To whom Frederick II. gave this Island; that, living in a private and solitary Place, removed from all Company but his own Family only, he might with more convenience attend his Books. At this day most observable for the Castle of Vraniborg, where the greatest part of his Mathematical Instruments are safely preserved.  
Turning westward, about Seland, you will find a parcel of little Islands, called Haselo, Siroo, Musholm, etc. of which nothing memorable. Spro lies half way betwixt Seland and Funen. South of Funen, towards Langeland, there are indeed two goodly Islands, the one called Tassing, and the other Aroe. More to the Westward you will find Hellenis, Barso, Aroe the lesser, Boko, and Brandso.  
North-east of Funen is Rompso. Further Northward Samsoo, a pretty large Island, than Endelo, Lillo; and towards the Scau, Lesso.  
Lastly, in the Ocean you have Heiligeland, Nortstrand, Fora, Sylt, Rom, and Fanoe, six pretty large Islands, if compared with these intermixed, viz. Suderong, Hodge, Amrom, Mandoe, etc.   

Of the DANES.  
And first of their Origine, Complexion, Language, Manners, and Religion.  
SOme Men are so fond of Antiquity, that they care not how fabulous they make their Pedigree, if it be but farfetched. Accordingly some Danes have endeavoured to make the World believe, that they were so called from Dan, a supposed King who reigned in these Parts above 1000 years before the Birth of our Saviour. And who should this King Dan come from, but from Dan the Son of Jacob? For my part, I should rather think it more probable, that the Danes took their Name from Sinus Codanus, the ancient name of the Baltic, their neighbouring Sea.  
However they were so called, certain it is that the first Inhabitants of Denmark, and chief of Jutland, were the Cimbri, from whom that Peninsule was called Cimbrica Chersonesus. Which Cimbri, says Heylin, were originally descended from Gomer, the Son of Japhet; thence called Gomerii and Cimmerii, by Contraction Cimbri. Leaving the Plains of Phrygia, as too narrow for them, they sought out new Dwellings; and are said to have first dwelled on the Banks of Palus Maeotis, where they gave name to the Bosphorus Cimmerius. Being overcome by the Scythians, they removed their Seats more Northward, and came at last to this Peninsule. Where being grown perhaps too populous for so small a Country, they resolved to seek for another, with the Sword in their hands. Receiving, as they did, as many as would join with them, they swollen to such a number, that Plutarch says their Army consisted of 300 thousand fight Men, besides Women and Children, which exceeded that number. They forced their way through Germany and France, to pass over into Italy. The Romans sent Armies to prevent their coming, which were beaten by the Cimbri. Manlius, Sillanus, and Caepio, all Roman Consuls, perished by them. And actum esset, says Florus, de Imperio Romano, nisi illi saeculo Marius contigisset, there had been an end of the Roman Empire if Marius had not stood for it. Who, not willing to venture on the Enemy united, and lately fleshed in the Overthrow of Manlius and Caepio, permitted them quietly to pass by his Camp. So that the Barbarians, who imputed it to fear or cowardice, scornfully asked his Soldiers, What Service they would command them to Rome. But Marius soon after stopped them in their Career, when for their easier Passage over the Alps, they had divided themselves into three several Bodies. Then, falling upon them severally, he destroyed them all. They were a People of extraordinary big Stature, having blue and red Eyes, and living so upon Theft that for their sakes the Germans called all Thiefs Cimbers.  
These Cimbri having left their Peninsule, the Saxons, Jutes, and Angles, took Possession of it. And, upon the Removal of these into Britain, the greatest part of it was peopled by the Danes, who dwelled in the Islands.  
The Danes in general are of a good Stature, clear of Complexion, well coloured, for the most part healthful, and long lived. Their Language is but a Dialect of the Germane Tongue. From which it does however so differ, that the Danes and Germans cannot understand one another, unless they do first converse some time together. As to their Inclinations, they do not vary much therein from the Swedes and Germans. Only they are looked upon to be more crafty than the latter, and more ambitious than the former. The Women are fair, courteous, and good Housewives, fruitful in bearing of Children, and yet delivered of them with great difficulty.  
For Men of Learning they have had Tyche Brahe, that renowned Astronomer; Hemingius, a well known Divine; Bartholinus, a Physician and Philosopher of very good esteem; John Cluverus, the Historian, etc. For great Captains, Gotricus or Godfrey, who settled the Government of this Kingdom, and endangered the great Monarchy of France; Sueno and Canute, the fortunate Conquerors of England; Waldemar III a right valiant Prince, but unsuccessful in his Wars against the Hanse-Towns; Christiern II. a great Commander, but a cruel Prince; Christiern IU. little inferior to many of his Predecessors. Amongst whom we may list Queen Margaret, the Semiramis of these Northern Countries; a Lady of a Masculine Spirit, no less fortunate than daring in her Enterprises.  
This Nation was converted to the Christian Faith in the time of King Harold, about 650 years ago. Till than it cannot be said that the Christian Religion was rooted here, though I read of some Christian Kings before this, as Eric and Froto, both living in the ninth Century. Neither was the Gospel so well fixed in Harold's time, but that the Danes relapsed still for the most part to their ancient Heathenism; till they were finally regained by Pope Adrian the Fourth, an Englishman. In process of time the Popes of Rome would needs pretend some Power and Jurisdiction over them. Which when they began to exercise with too much Authority, King Waldemar III (the Father of Queen Margaret) is said to have returned this Answer, Naturam habemus à Deo, Regnum à Subditis, Divitias à Parentibus, Religionem à Romanâ Ecclesiâ; quam si nobis invides, renuntiamus per Praesentes. That is to say, We hold our Life from God, our Crown from our Subjects, our Riches from our Ancestors, our Religion from the Church of Rome; which Religion, if you envy us, we do here remit it by these Presents. But this Renunciation, though then threatened, was not made till afterwards. King Frederick I. was he that abolished the whole Mass of Popery, using therein the Ministry of Bugenhage, a Divine of Pomeren, by whom the Danes were reform according to the Doctrine of the Lutheran Churches. And ever since they have continued in that state of Reformation, wherein the Church of Denmark differs not much from the Church of England. For, as they have rejected several Errors and Abuses of the Church of Rome, so they have still retained a settled and prescribed Liturgy for all their Churches, most of the holidays observed in the former Ages, the Cross in Baptism, Kneeling at the Communion, and many other practicable Ceremonies transmitted to us from the Primitive Church.  
The main Point, wherein they differ as Lutherans from all other Protestants, is the Article of Consubstantiation, whereby they believe that in the Sacrament of the Lords Supper the Elements of Bread and Wine remain in Substance with the real Body and Blood of our Saviour after the Consecration.   

Of the Danish Government.  
THis Kingdom has been till of late Elective, and not Hereditary, whatever Heylin pretends to the contrary. 'Tis true the Danes have usually preferred the Royal Family, and set the eldest Son on the Throne of his Father. But, because the House of Austria (for example) has hitherto enjoyed the Imperial Crown above 240 years successively, I hope it does not follow therefore that the Empire is not Elective. 'Tis well known that in Denmark, after the death of Christopher, the Crown was transferred to the House of Oldenburg, who held it on no other ground but by that of Election. And about 160 years ago was not King Christiern II. outed of his Estate, and Frederick advanced unto it? But Dr. Heylin eludes that, by saying that such things have happened in Estates that were clearly Hereditary, and aught to make no Precedent, and that Acts of Violence and Force are only justified by the false Topick of Success. When all is done, 'tis undeniable that the Crown of Denmark was formerly Elective, if we consider that it was made in due form Hereditary no longer ago than the year 1660, in the Person of King Frederick. Which happened thus, soon after the Treaty concluded that very year betwixt his Majesty and the now King of Sweden.  
The Clergy and Commonalty had been always jealous of the great Power of the Nobility, and more particularly during the War with Sweden. They therefore being now armed, especially the People, and consequently capable of all things, secretly combined together, as well out of hate to the Nobles, as out of gratitude to the King, for his Fortitude in preserving of them, to make him Hereditary Monarch of their Crown. Their declared Reasons were, that being his Majesty had undergone in his War with Sweden all imaginable Dangers, and that he had with admirable Constancy and Magnanimmity demonstrated his affection and willingness in Conservation of his People and Kingdom, they were of opinion that so great Benefits ought not to be let pass without the demonstration and some extraordinary Marks of their Gratitude. Which could not be better expressed, than by presenting the Crown to his Majesty's Line by Succession. Wherein they were the more encouraged by the Example of a neighbouring Kingdom (meaning that of Sweden) where the same Thing had been done with good Success, and notable Advantage to the People.  
This Resolution being taken, these two States appointed Deputy's to inform the Senators of their design, and desired them to communicate it to the Nobles, whom they acknowledged to be the first and most conspicuous Part of the Whole. They farther wished them to cooperate in persuading them to a Compliance in this Point, that they might all jointly agree in so reasonable and plausible an Undertaking.  
After great Deliberation they were answered, that the Proposition was not so new but that several Discourses had been had about it heretofore, and that very important Reasons had been produced Pro and Con in the matter. But that the Nobility could not forbear complaining of the Informality used herein, namely, that a Business of so great weight should not only come abroad so secretly and without the least Communication, but also positively be agreed on and concluded. In short, it was desired on their part, that the Senators and Nobility should not be further pressed herein, and that they might at least have time allowed them orderly to deliberate hereof amongst themselves. But the other two Bodies, declining with civil Excuses the point of Informality, insisted upon an Answer to the principal Matter, and the Conformity of the Nobles with the other two Members.  
In the mean time, finding them dilatory, and that their Answer would prove none or nothing to the purpose, they resolved to persist, and jointly present their Proposition to his Majesty; which rendered it as to them unalterable. The King behaved himself in such a manner as if he neither had nor did desire it; but so that he would not decline or refuse it, if it were presented to him formally and by the three States. The Clergy and People made new Instances. So that the Nobles, seeing no other Remedy, seemed to yield, ut praeveniant, ne quod faciunt fecisse videantur inviti.  
During these Traverses the Gates were shut at Copenhagen, the Watch doubled, the Citizens upon their Guard, and all Courts locked up. The Nobility, lest it might be done without them, conformed at last with the other two Bodies. Thus going jointly to the Castle, they presented the King, first with the Crown hereditarily by Succession, ad Progeniem masculinam. But, perceiving that the Clause was not pleasing to his Majesty, it was by a new Resolve offered and accepted sine discrimine Sexûs.  
Monsieur Trolle Viceroy of Norway, by reason of the Indisposition of Gesdorph the Ricks Hoff-master, congratulated their Majesty's and Princes in the name of the Nobility, with Expressions that the Senate and Nobles could have wished that these Proceed had been carried with mutual Communication and better Order, that Body being no less inclinable to gratify his Majesty and his Posterity than the others. The Bishop of Copenhagen harangued in the name of the rest, closing his Speech with the Blessing of Amen, which was repeated by all that were present.  
On Wednesday the 27th. of October the Solemnity of the Inauguration was performed with as much State as the Time would permit. The Trumpets and Kettledrums had summoned the Horse and Foot to assist at the Ceremony. Three Troops were drawn up by the Tennis Court, seven Colours of Foot being ranged by them. Four Companies were also placed behind the Stage or Theatre erected on purpose, and seven Companies more over against the Castle, by the Bridge going to the Island. About ten a Clock the Burghers in twelve Companies marched, and placed themselves from the Castle-Bridge to the Theatre, guarding the Passage on both sides with their Militia. The Stage was eight or ten Steps high, and forward four Steps higher were placed two Chairs of State, covered with purple Velvet, over which was a rich Canopy. Further, on the King's side, were two Stools for the two Princes; and on the Queens, three more for the three Princesses. There were likewise Benches on each side the Theatre, covered with Scarlet; the right side being for the Senators, and the left for the Queen's Ladies.  
About Noon the Court descended from the Castle, the Senators or great Counsellors leading the Van. Four whereof carried the Regalia, to wit, the Crown, the Sceptre, the Apple or Globe, and the Sword; which were laid upon a Buffet or Table placed before the King's Chair, and covered with a purple Velvet Carpet. The King followed next alone, than the Queen and her Children, all under a Canopy of Crimson Satin, born by eight principal Men, for they had then no titular Lords. The King, Queen, and Princes being seated, were environed with the Senate, Nobles, and Courtiers, who stood below on the Stage. And, after some usual Ceremonies (under which Kneeling was not omitted) the Oath of Allegiance was read by the Chancellor, containing a Promise of Fidelity to the King, Queen, and Royal Family, as Hereditary King of Denmark. This was first taken by the Senators, then by the Nobility, than the Courtiers, Deputies of the Clergy and Corporations, and lastly by the Boors of Amag, who being of Dutch Extraction and free, depend solely on the King. The Oath was in these Words;  Most Gracious King, I A. B. do promise and declare, that I will be true and faithful to your Royal Majesty, as my most gracious Hereditary King and Lord, as also to your Royal Family; That I will endeavour and further your Majesty's Interest in all things, and to the best of my Power defend You from all Dangers and Harm; and that I will faithfully serve your Majesty, as a Man of Honour and an Hereditary Subject aught to do. So help me God, and his holy Gospel. 
The Oath being thus taken, their Majesties were humbly congratulated by all (except the Boors) mounting in order up the four steps, and after their profound Abaisance returning each to his Station. So that the Ceremony lasted till near three a Clock; at which time the Court returned in the same Order they came, and the Gates thereupon were opened.  
Thus King Frederick was a greater Gainer than Loser by the Swedish Wars; the Crown being now entailed to his House, from which it might have gone by way of Election.  
Since this Change there has been seven Colleges erected. The first is the College of State, the second that of the Treasury, the third is the Chancery, the fourth of the Militia, the fifth of Justice, the sixth of the Admiralty's, the seventh of Commerce. There followed also many notable Changes in the chief Offices of the Kingdom, as in that of Riicks' Hoosmaster changed to that of Riicks' Drost, of no less Eminency and Authority.  
The King's yearly Revenue does chief consist in the Toll laid upon all Ships which pass through the Sound. The greatness of which Revenue may be guessed at by the multitude of Ships which of Necessity must pass by it in the Trade of the Baltic. Though I confess the number of them was much greater before the English removed the Trade of Narva to Archangel in Moscovy, upon their Discovery of the North-east Passage. Besides that this Revenue is much lessened, since the Swedes, both by the Roschild Treaty, and that in the year 1660, have freed themselves from that Toll. Nay, there have been several Projects on foot, which (if they took) would curtail it much more. As the Design of joining the Baltic to the Elb by the Lake of Swerin in Mecklemburg, the transporting of Merchandizes by Land from Hamburg to Lubeck, and the Malrase Canal in Brandenburg in order to convey the Merchandizes of Poland and Silesia from the River Oder through the Spree upon the Elb. But, till these Projects take better than they have hitherto done, the Sound is safe enough, and not like to be given over.  
Besides this important Revenue of the King from the Sound, there is a great yearly Toll made of the  which pass into Germany, as also of the Fish transported into other Countries. Now Fish and  being the two main Things that are exported out of Denmark, the first by Sea, and the last by Land over into Germany, the Incomes of Custom-houses, as to other Commodities, are not exceeding great. But on the other side, the Accession of the Crown-Lands is not inconsiderable.  
In short, the King's Revenues are such, that he keeps a handsome Court, and maintains a good Fleet, with several Garrisons he has in his numerous Forts and Frontire-Places. As to the Forces which he is able to raise, that may best be seen by some of his Royal Predecessors particular Undertake. As of Christiern TWO; who at the Request of Henry II. of France, sent a Fleet of a hundred Sail into Scotland, and therein no fewer than 10000 Soldiers; And of Frederick his Uncle, than Duke of Holstein, who in his Wars against this Christiern (whose Removal from the Crown he had projected) brought 50000 Men into the Field to make good his Quarrel. In short, considering the many Ports and Islands this Crown is Master of, both within the Baltic and without, it cannot be but the King may suddenly raise a strong Power at Sea. And then, considering that each of the Nobility, which are here numerous enough, is bound to find a certain number of Horse upon all Occasions, as are those also who hold Lands of the King (which the Danes call Verlehninge) there is no doubt but he is able to make good Levies for a sudden Service, especially in defence of his Dominions.  
For State-Affairs, the King has his Council of State, with whose Advice he determines either of Peace or War, enters into new Leagues or Confederacies, and imposes Taxes upon his Subjects as occasion requires. In this Juncture of time this Court seems engaged with France with an Eye upon Sweden, in order perhaps to recover from that Crown, by the Assistance of France, what has been formerly extorted from the Crown of Denmark by the Treaty of Roschild. Schonen is a fine Country East of Seland, which, till that Treaty, belonged to Denmark; and, if the King of Denmark should attempt to recover it by such means as God has put into his hands, 'twere but repelling Force by Force, and endeavouring to regain that by Force of Arms which Charles Gustave, by the terror of his Arms, extorted from Frederick. I pass by the Act of Calmar, whereby the Swedes bound themselves to a perpetual Union with Denmark, under the lawful Successors of Queen Margaret. Which Act was afterwards confirmed, upon the Coronation of Eric, her immediate Successor.  
For all Causes and Controversies, such is the Constitution of this Crown, that they are first to be decided in the Herets (or Prefectures) where they first arise. From whence it is lawful to appeal to the Judge of the Province, from him to the Chancellor of the Kingdom, and finally to the King and Council.  
Having said thus much as to the Government of Denmark, and of the King as Supreme thereof, I shall now present you with the Chronological Succession of the Kings of Denmark, with an Historical Abstract of those King's Lives that have any thing worth taking notice of. The Danish Authors make a great Catalogue of fabulous Kings since King Dan, which (being unwilling to impose upon the Public) I shall freely pass over. I could begin, as Heylin, with Gotricus, whom he looks upon as the first Legislator of the Danes, and the Establisher of their Kingdom. But I shall content myself to begin with Harold, the first Christian King of Denmark, that settled the Christian Religion in those Parts, and who began his Reign about the Year 927.  

The Chronological Succession of the Christian Kings of Denmark, since the Year 927.  Anno Chr. Reigned 927 HArold I. 48 Years. 975 Sueno I. 35. Years. 1010 Olaus. 10. Years. 1020 Canute I. 21. Years. 1036 Canute II. 9 Years. 1045 Magnus. 4. Years. 1049 Sueno II. 27. Years. 1074 Harold II. 2. Years. 1076 Canute III. 9 Years. 1085 Olaus. 10. Years. 1095 Eric I. 7. Years. 1102 Harold III. or Nicolas. 33. Years. 1135 Eric II. 4. Years. 1139 Eric III. 8. Years. 1147 Canute IU. 8. Years. 1155 Sueno III. 2. Years. 1157 Waldemar I. 28. Years. 1185 Canute V. 18. Years. 1202 Waldemar II. 40. Years. 1241 Eric IU. 9 Years. 1250 Abel. 2. Years. Anno Chr. Reigned 1252 Christopher I. 7 Years. 1259 Eric V. 28. Years. 1286 Eric VI. 35. Years. 1321 Christopher II. 12. Years. 1333 Waldemar III. 42. Years. 1376 Margaret with Aquin 36. Years. 1412 Eric VII. 27. Years. 1445 Christopher III. 3. Years. 1448 Christiern I. 34. Years. 1482 John 32. Years. 1513 Christiern II. 10. Years. 1523 Frederick I. 11. Years. 1534 Christiern III. 24. Years. 1559 Frederick II. 29. Years. 1588. Christiern IU. 60. Years. 1648 Frederick III. 22. Years. 1670 Christiern V. the present King.   
Harold 1 (according to our Account) was converted to the Christian Faith, seeing (for a Proof of it) a Clergyman carry a burning hot Iron in his hands, without any hurt. Whereupon he became the Apostle of the North, and prudently governed his Dominions. His Son, being still a Heathen, waged War with him, and slew him in a Battle Sept. 1. Anno 980.  
That Son was Sueno I. (otherwise called Swain) his immediate Successor. At first a great Enemy of the Gospel, as well as an Usurper of the Throne in his Father life-time, and a great Scourge unto the English. Being outed of his Estate by Eric King of Sweden, he received the Gospel, regained his Kingdom, and reestablished Christianity in it, his War on England still continuing. He was King of Denmark by Birth, and of Norway by Conquest. Which last he conquered from Olaus, than King of Norway.  
After Sueno's Death, both Denmark and Norway fell to the share of his eldest Son Olaus, whilst his younger Son Canute fixed in England. Olaus having reigned Ten years in the North, and dying without Issue, left his two Crowns to his Brother Canute I. surnamed the Great, but the second Canute in the general Account. His Father Sueno being dead, he went on in his Conquests against King Edmund, surnamed Iron-side, who succeeded Ethelred. After some Disadvantages, he at last came off victorious in a field-Fight. Then he challenged his Rival to a single Combat, which made them Friends; but he obliged him to divide his Kingdom with him. Not long after which, Edmund having been basely murdered by Edward (surnamed the Outlaw) his eldest Son, King Canute brought the Murderers to a condign Punishment, and took upon himself the Government of the whole Kingdom. After that he conquered Sweden, and brought the Crown of Scotland to a state of Vassalage. He married Emma the Widow of Ethelred, and Daughter of Richard Duke of Normandy. In the year 1027 he went in Pilgrimage to Rome, and died eight years after, leaving the Northern Crowns to Canute, and England to Harold his base Son. He had a Daughter called Elfgine, who was married to the Emperor Henry III.  
Canute TWO, second Son of Canute I, was first of all King of Denmark, and afterwards of England, upon the death of his elder Brother Harold, who died not long after his Coronation, Anno 1040. He was kindly received by the English, but he proved very unkind to 'em. For he caused several of the chief Men of the Kingdom to be put to death, and he oppressed the People with heavy Taxes. To avenge the Injuries done to his Mother Emma by Harold, he caused him to be digged out of his Grave, and his head to be cast into the Thames. Two years after his coming to the Crown, he went to a Wedding in Lambeth, where he fell off his Chair, and died. Some thought he had been poisoned. However, he being dead, the English took up Arms, and made a riddance of the Danes. This is that King Canute, which was commonly called Hardy Canute.  
To him succeeded King Magnus in Denmark, who governed that Kingdom the space of four years. He was Son of Olaus King of Norway.  
Sueno TWO, was Sister's Son of Canute I, (according to our account) by Ulso an English Duke. 'Twas he that restored the Kingdom of Norway to the Norwegians.  
Harold TWO, was Son of that Sueno. There is nothing memorable of him that I can find at present, but that he was surnamed the Idle.  
Canute III, was Brother of that Harold. He attempting to recover England, was murdered at the Altar in the Church of St. Alban, Anno 1081, and after that ranked among the Martyrs. A Son of his, called by his Name, did likewise suffer Martyrdom, and was canonised a Saint, Anno 1164, by Pope Alexander IU. The Church of Rome celebrates his Day on the 19th of January. I suppose this is that Canute, who was murderin the Church of Odensee in Funen, whom Heylin mistakes for his Father.  
As for Olaus, I find nothing of him that's memorable.  
Eric I, surnamed the Good, was Brother of Canute the Saint. He, being a Religious Prince, took a Voyage to Rome, and afterwards to the Holy Land, with his Queen Bochilde; and he died in Cyprus.  
Harold III, was base Son of Eric. 'Tis said he was murdered by his own Brother.  
Eric TWO, called the Bastard, a cruel and passionate Prince, was also assassinated.  
Eric III, Son of Anna Sister of Eric TWO, succeeded him. He was surnamed the Lamb, because of his sweet Nature. But he had no Fortune in his Wars with the Swedes. At last he retired into a Monastery, and there died.  
Canute iv was slain at a Feast by his Successor,  
Sueno III, who was likewise murdered by his Successor.  
Waldemar I, Son of Canute, the lawful Son of Eric I, by whose means the Rugians and Vandals embraced the Gospel. He was the first that reduced the Laws into a set form and Writing. And by his Laws the Bishops were to sit with the Council of State in all Causes of moment. But they were discharged from that Employment by King Christiern III.  
Canute V was the Son of Waldemar, and of Sophia Sister to Canute the Fourth. Having reigned some time with his Father, he at last succeeded him. He made War to the Pomeranians, and is said to have been married to Mathildis Daughter of Henry the Lion Duke of Saxony.  
Waldemar TWO, Brother of Canute the Fifth, was Duke of Sleswick before his coming to the Crown.  
Eric IV, Son of Waldemar the Second, was married to Agnes, the then Marquis of Brandenburgh's Daughter. He shown a great deal of good Conduct in his Government. But he was murdered by his Brother  
Abel, the second Son of Waldemar the Second, Who did not long enjoy his Usurpation. For two years after he came to the Crown (by an Act, more Cain than Abel-like) he was killed himself by the Boors in the Friesland War. And it is said, that the Place, where he was inhumed, swarmed with Spirits and strange Apparitions.  
Christopher I, the youngest Brother of the foresaid Abel and Eric, was no Admirer of Prelates. He reigned with a various Fortune, and at last was taken Prisoner in his War against the Earls of Holstein. Some Authors are of opinion, that he did not die before the year 1268.  
Eric V, surnamed the Old, was Christopher his Son. His Reign of twenty eight years was blessed with Peace and Plenty, but he was slain by the Practices and Treason of his Officers. Mathildis, Daughter of Albert, called the Great Duke of Brunswick, was his Queen. By whom he had, amongst other Children, his Son and Successor,  
Eric VI, surnamed the Young, who supplanted Christopher, his Elder Brother. He began his Reign with a severe Punishment of his Father's Murderers. He took Rostock (now a Hanse Town) in Mecklemburg, and some other Places; and he married with the Sister of Birger King of Sweden, by whom he left no Issue.  
Christopher TWO, elder Brother of Eric, added the Island of Rugen to the Crown of Denmark, and gave Rostock in fief to the Dukes of Mecklemburg. The Earls of Holstein beat him out of his Kingdom, and he was twice restored to it.  
Waldemar III, was Son of Christopher. A stout Prince, but unfortunate in his Wars with the Hanse Towns; which confederated against him, and vanquished him in many Battles.  
Margaret, Daughter of Waldemar the Third, gave herself in Marriage to Aquin King of Norway, and so united the Kingdoms. They had a Son named Olaus, a hopeful Prince, but he died young. Aquin her Husband, and Olaus her Son, being dead, she stood still at the Helm; and, not contented with two Crowns, she put in for a third. In short, she attempted by force of Arms to recover the Crown of Sweden. She raised a fine Army, and appeared at the head of it. Albert, Duke of Mecklemburg, was then King of Sweden. He was Son of Euphemia, the Sister of Magnus iv of Sweden, and got that Crown, to the prejudice of Aquin the Husband of Margaret. For you must know, that Magnus iv King both of Sweden and Norway, had two Sons, Eric and Aquin aforesaid. Eric, his eldest Son, was his designed Successor in the Crown of Sweden, whilst in his Life-time he bestowed the Crown of Norway upon Aquin. Eric dies before his Father, and after his death the Father himself was outed of his Kingdom by the practice of Albert, his Nephew aforesaid. Queen Margaret therefore, having raised a good Army, undertook to do herself Justice, and to dispossess Albert of his Inchroachments. By that time Albert was grown a worse Tyrant than his Predecessor; which made the Nobility, that had raised him up to the Throne, seek the means to unthrone him. So that all things seemed to concur for the Success of Queen Margaret's Design. And indeed such was her Valour and the Fortune of her Arms, that she gave the Swedes Battle in the Year 1387, defeated their Army, and took their King Prisoner. A bloody Battle it was, says my Author. Albert was kept Prisoner for the space of seven years. To get his Liberty, he freely resigned his Kingdom to Margaret, and so went to his own Country, where he died. Upon his Resignation, Anno 1394, she caused an Act of State to be passed in Calmar, for the Perpetuation of this Union unto her Successors. In short, this was a Princess of a Temper so far beyond her Sex, that all Historians cry her up as the Wonder of her Age, and a second Semiramis.  
Before she died, she was solicitous to find a worthy Successor. Ingelburgis, her Sister, offered her one, namely Eric her Son, whom she got by Vratislaus Duke of Pomeren. Margaret accepted of him, and got him crowned in her Life-time, Anno 1396, with the Concurrence of the States of the three Kingdoms. The Archbishop of Upsal performed the Ceremony, and thereupon a Law was made that the three Kingdoms should never be separated. This Eric (the seventh in our Account) begun his Reign in the year 1412, and was Knight of the Garter. His Cruelties rendered him so odious to his Subjects, that they risen up in Arms every where against him. Anno 1424 he went to the Holy Land. And in the Year 1439, weary of swaying the Sceptre, he retired into Pomeren, where he lived twenty years longer. So that he was no less than 77 Years old, when he died. During that Retirement, 'tis supposed by some, that he writ the History of Denmark, which gins thus, Dani, ut testantur veteres Historiographi.  
Eric having thus resigned his Kingdoms to live a private Life, there was an Interregnum for the space of six years, till Christopher III came in by Election. He was Duke of Bavaria (but in Title only) Son of John Count Palatine of the Rhine, and of Margaret Sister of Eric. Though he was very mild in his Government, yet his Subjects were disgusted at him for bestowing the great Places of Trust upon Germans, which he had promised to confer upon the Natives. He married Dorothy of Brandenburg; and, after a Reign of three Years, died without Issue. Whereby he made way to the Crown for the House of Oldenburg, the present Royal Family of Denmark. And then the Swedes, weary of the Danish Government, chose a King of their own, Charles Canute, without any regard to the Act of Calmar.  
Christiern I, Earl of Oldenburg, was Son of Theodorick Earl of Oldenburg, and of his Wife Hedwige, Sister of Adolph Earl of Sleswick and Holstein. Which Earl, being offered the Crown of Denmark, declined it by reason of his Age and want of Children; but he recommended in his stead Christiern his Nephew and next Heir; who thereupon was chosen King of Denmark. After his Uncle's Decease, he succeeded him in the Estates of Holstein and Sleswick, continuing since united unto that Crown. And, by the Assistance of the Bishop of Upsal, he recovered the Crown of Sweden. But he lost it again; and after that Sweden was governed for a time by Marshals.  
According to Moreri, 'twas by this King Christiern that the chief Order of Knighthood in Denmark, called the Order of the Elephant, was instituted, and that at the Wedding of his Son John.  
John, the Son of Christiern the First, was crowned King of Sweden, the next Year after his coming to the Crown of Denmark. But, not keeping Conditions with the Swedes, they turned him out, and returned to their former Government under Marshals. King John upon that raised an Army of 50000 Men, in order to recover that Crown. But his Endeavours proved fruitless. Christina, his Queen, was Daughter of Ernest, Elector of Saxony. By whom he had, amongst other Children, his Son and Successor  
Christiern TWO, surnamed the Cruel, or the Tyrant. Few Years after he was set upon the Throne of his Father, (that is, in the Year 1518.) He raised an Army against Sweden, and went by Sea to besiege Stockholm. But he was forced at last to raise the Siege. They had at that time in Sweden a Triumvirate of Marshals, who governed the Kingdom. Two of them died natural Deaths, and the last being by Christiern II. slain in Battle, this Kingdom was again possessed by the Danes. And then King Christiern promised his new Subjects all manner of Clemency and Lenity on his part. But he could not forbear gratifying his barbarous Inclinations. In order to which he invited the chief Men of the Kingdom, both Spiritual and Temporal, and in the midst of the Feast he caused them to be put to Death. Which Inhumanity was so highly resented by the Swedes, that they risen up in Arms, under the Conduct of Gustave Eric, and drove once more the Danes out of Sweden. On the merit of which Action, Gustave Eric, descended from the ancient Race of the Kings of Sweden, was chosen King of Sweden; and in his House that Crown still continues. Christiern, being returned to Denmark, where he continued his Crimes, was likewise expelled from thence; and than Frederick, his Uncle, succeeded him. Whereupon Christiern fled into the Low-Countries, with Elizabeth his Wfe, Sister of Charles the Fifth and Ferdinand, both Emperors. After ten Years Exile, he attempted, with the Hollanders Assistance, to regain the Crown he had lost, to whom therefore he promised vast Privileges upon the Baltic. But he was taken Prisoner, and after twenty seven Years Confinement in Prison, he died, in the year 1559, aged about seventy eight years.  
Frederick I, surnamed the Pacifick, was Brother of John and Uncle of Christiern the Second. He was chosen King of Denmark and Norway, upon the Abdication of his Nephew; and took up the Crown upon such Terms as made him little more than a titular King. 'Twas he however that brought in the Reformed Religion in both Kingdoms, according to the Confession of Augsburg. Anno 1532. he clapped his Nephew, Christiern the Second, in Prison; and not long after he departed this Life, leaving four Sons that he got by Ann of Brandenburg. The eldest whereof was his immediate Successor.  
Christiern III, the eldest Son of Frederick the first, suppressed with great Trouble the Party form against him in behalf of Christiern the second. He perfected the Reformation begun in the time of his Father. And as he was a Lover of Learning, so he proved a great Benefactor to the University of Copenhagen. Dorothy, his Queen, was Daughter of Magnus' Duke of Saxony. He got by her three Sons and two Daughters. His Sons were Frederick, his Successor; Magnus, who was Bishop of Hapsel in Livonia; and John. Of his two Daughters, the Lady Ann was married to Augustus, Elector of Saxony; and the Lady Dorothy, to Henry Duke of Luneburg.  
As the Emperor Charles V prohibited and enacted, that no Ecclesiastical Person should buy any  Goods without the Prince's Consent; so this King Christiern ordained, that the Clergy should sell no Church Lands without leave of the King.  
Frederick TWO, Son of Christiern the Third, subdued Ditmarsen, a part of Holstein, till then unconquered by the Danes, or Earls of Holstein. He warred against Lubeck, and Eric King of Sweden. When Pope Pius iv desired him by a Nuncio to send some body from him to the Council of Trent, he declined it, saying, that he would have no Commerce with Popes. He very much improved the University of Copenhagen, and was a great Admirer of the Learned, but especially of Tycho Brahe. Sophia his Queen was Daughter of Ulric Duke of Mecklemburg. He got by her three Sons, and four Daughters. His eldest Son Christiern succeeded him, but Ulric and John died young and without Issue. His eldest Daughter Elizabeth was second Wise to Henry-Julius Duke of Brunswick; Ann was given in Marriage to James King of Great Britain; Hedwige, to Christiern the Second, Elector of Saxony; and Augusta, to John Adolph Duke of Holstein.  
Christiern IV, Son of Frederick the Second, Brother of Ann Queen of Great Britain and Knight of the Garter, succeeded his Father at the Age of twelve Years. Four Counsellors were appointed to be Regent's during his Minority, and he was not crowned till the year 1596.  
In the Month of July, Anno 1606, he came over into England, to visit the King and Queen. He had been long expected, when at last News were brought to Court, that he was come with eight Ships into the River of Thames, and that he anchored before Gravesend. This happened on the seventeenth of July; and the next day King James, with Prince Henry, and divers of the Lords, went by Barge to meet this Royal Guest, and bring him up to London. Where he stayed about four Weeks, being entertained all that while with all the Magnificence that could be imagined. Both Kings did ride in great state through the City, there being Pageants erected in many Places. He was showed the chief Places about the Town, as the Royal Exchange, the Tower, the Monuments at Westminster; and, that he might have a full Prospect of the City and Suburbs, he went to the top of Paul's. No manner of Pastime was omitted to divert so welcome a Guest, and the Earl of Salisbury feasted him at Theobalds' four days together. At last on the twelfth of August, being conducted by the King, the Queen, and Prince, with many other great Lords, he departed to his Ships, and arrived in eight days at home.  
In July 1614 he came the second time into England, but Incognito, and with a small Company. The Queen was surprised to see him arrived at Somerset House, before she knew any thing of his Coming. King James was then in Progress in Bedfordshire, who heard no sooner of it but he came back. He admired his Frankness as well as his Affection, and thanked him hearty for both. In return whereof, he regalled him with all the possible Marks of Kindness and Gratitude. And King Christiern returned, Aug. 1, extremely satisfied with his Entertainment. A rare thing to see Princes converse together with so much Freedom, and not kept asunder with Jealousies of State.  
Anno 1610. King Christiern made War against Sweden. In the year 1625. the Protestants of Germany made him Head of the League against the Emperor Ferdinand the Second, for the Restauration of Count Palatine of the Rhine to his Estates. But he was suddenly beat out of all Jutland by the prevailing Imperialists, till he compounded the Business upon very good Terms, and was restored to all his own. Afterwards he turned his Arms against the Swedes, in the year 1644, who got several Places from him; but the Peace put a stop to their Conquests. He reigned sixty years, and died at 70 years of age.  
Ann Catharine, his Queen, was Daughter of Joachim Frederick Elector of Brandenburg. He got by her, amongst other Children, Christiern and Frederick. Christiern was chosen King of Denmark, in his Father's life-time. He was a very hopeful Prince, but unhealthy; so that he died before his Royal Father, going to drink some Waters in Saxony. His Death made room for  
Frederick III, second Son of Christiern the Fourth. He was Archbishop of Bremen in Saxony, before he came to the Crown, upon the Death of his Royal Father, and not long after the decease of Christiern his elder Brother, who (as I said before) was King elect. This is that magnanimous Prince, who by his invincible Constancy has not long since redeemed this Crown from the hands of the Swedes. This is that Frederick, whose late Calamities served only to set off the greatness of his Courage. And, as if the same Rules of Providence were appointed for the Royal Families of England and Denmark, whilst King Frederick was struggling for his Crown with the Swedes, the late Usurpers here kept the Crown from King Charles. And, as it was their fortune to suffer both together, so they had the Comfort to be both the same Year restored to their Dominions. 'Tis true King Frederick was fain to part with some of the best Jewels of his Crown. But that Loss, whatever it is, is not Irrecoverable; and has already been sufficiently made up on the part of his Subjects, by their deep sense of Gratitude in making his Crown Hereditary, which formerly was but Elective. On the 18th of October 1643, some years before he came to the Crown, he married with the Lady Sophia Aemilia of Luneburg, by whom he got, 1.  
Christiern V, now King of Denmark, a Prince of a warlike and generous Temper. He was born Apr. 18. 1646, and has got Issue by Queen Charlotte his Royal Consort, a Princess of the most Ancient and Illustrious House of Hassia Cassel in Germany.  

2. Prince George, born in the year 1653. Whose Royal Birth and Princely Qualifications, as well as other Regards, have made him in our King's Judgement a proper Match for the Lady Ann. The Solemnity of which Marriage is at hand.  
3. Anna Sophia, married to John George, Elector of Saxony.  
4. Frederica Aemilia, married in the Year 1667. to Christiern Albert Duke of Holstein Gottorp.  
5. Guilliemetta-Ernestina, married in the Year 1671. to Count Palatine of the Rhine.  
6. Vlrica-Eleonora-Sabina, married to the present King of Sweden, Charles XI.   
The Titles of the King of Denmark run thus. Christiern the Fifth, by the Grace of God, King of Denmark and Norway, of the Vandals and Goths, Duke of Sleswick, Holstein, Stormaren, and Dithmarsen, Count of Oldenburg and Delmenhorst, etc.  
His Arms are Quarterly. 1. Or, three Lions passant Vert, crowned of the first, for the Kingdom of Denmark; 2. Gules, a Lion rampant Or, crowned and armed of the first, in his paws a Dansk Hatchet Argent, for the Kingdom of Norway. What Arms belong to him, as Duke of Holstein and Sleswick, and Earl of Oldenburg, I am as yet to seek.  
Lastly, to omit nothing that may be essential to this our present Subject, I must give some Account of the Dukes of Holstein, as being of the Blood-Royal of Denmark, and accordingly holding several Estates of that Crown in Holstein.  
The House of Holstein is generally divided into three principal Branches. The King of Denmark is the Head of the first Branch, and the standing Protector of the Princes of the House of Holstein. The other two Branches are that of Holstein Gottorp, and that of Holstein Sunderburg.  
The Branch of Holstein Gottorp (so called from Gottorp, a Castle near Sleswick in Holstein) began with  

Adolph, second Son of Frederick I. and Brother of Christiern III. Kings of Denmark. He came into the World Anno 1526, was made Knight of the Garter by Queen Elizabeth Anno 1560, and dying in the year 1586 left his Estate to  
John Adolph, his Son, who married with Augusta, Daughter of Frederick II. King of Denmark, and died in the year 1620. He left his Estate and Title to his Son  
Frederick, born in Dec. Anno 1597. This is that Duke of Holstein, who in the year 1633, sent those two chargeable Embassies to Moscovy and Persia, whereof Olearius has made an ample Relation. The end of which Embassies was to settle a Commerce of Silk in his Dominions, in order to which he caused Frederickstad on the Eyder to be built. He died in the year 1659., leaving his Estate to his Son  
Christiern Albert, the present Duke of Holstein Gottorp, born in Febr. 1641. Married, as I said before, to Frederica-Aemilia, one of the King of Denmark's Sisters.   
To the Duke of Holstein Gottorp there's but one collateral Branch, viz. of Ottin, or Ottingen. Which begun with John of Ottin, younger Brother to Frederick Duke of Holstein Gottorp, born March 19th Anno 1606. He was Administrator of the Bishopric of Lubeck, and an eminent Scholar. He died Febr. 18. 1655, and left a Son called John Augustus, born August 3. in the Year 1647.  
The Branch of Holstein Sunderburg (so called from Sunderburg, a Castle in the Isle of Alsen, near the East-Coast of Sleswick, began with 

John, second Son of Christiern III. King of Denmark, born March 25th Anno 1545. He died Nou. 9th 1621., and left four Sons, who made so many Branches.  
Alexander, his eldest Son, Duke of Holstein Sunderburg, was born Anno 1573, and died March 13. in the year 1627. His next Heir and Successor was his Son  
John Christiern, born April 26. 1607. Who dying Anno 1653, or 54, left his Title and Estate to his Son  
Christiern Adolph, the present Duke of Holstein Sunderburg.    
The three younger Branches are, 1. Of Holstein Norburg, 2. of Holstein Gluksburg, 3. of Holstein Ploen, or Arnsberg.  
Thus I have unravelled the Pedigree of the Dukes of Holstein, who are now increased to a great number, and some of them of no great Fortunes. The Duke of Holstein Gottorp is the most considerable; and yet he was much greater, before he lost the King of Denmark, his Brother-in-Law's, favour; by engaging too far with Sweden, to the prejudice of his Blood. Whereby he lost to the King his Rights of Sovereignty over the Dukedom of Sleswick, and has little or nothing left there besides his Castle of Gottorp. Which Rights were formerly extorted from the late King Frederick by the Roschild Treaty. In Holstein his Subjects are set under Contribution, whilst his Highness resides at Hamburg, his Place of Refuge, where he has in vain protested against the King's Proceed. This Prince has a Brother, Augustus Frederick, born Anno 1646.   

Of the Nobility, Clergy, and Commonalty of Denmark, in relation to Government; As also of the chief Order of Knighthood, called of the Elephant.  
IN all Governments the Inhabitants are distinguished, and divided into several Orders and Degrees, commonly called States. In England we have but King, Lords, and Commons. But in Denmark they reckon five Orders, or States; viz. the Blood-Royal, the Nobility or Gentry, the Clergy, Burgesses or Merchants, and Countrymen.  
In our foregoing Discourse we have spoke at large of the Blood-Royal. I come now to the next Order, which is the Nobility. A Bridle to Kings in all Elective Kingdoms, but on the contrary a Support of Crowns Hereditary.  
Before the Crown of Denmark was made Hereditary, there was no Titular Lords. But he only was counted a Nobleman, that could show his Nobility by a long Descent. They bore their Arms simple, and thought it a disgrace to change, or add to them. Here is still the Noble Family of the Wrens, whose Ancestors were present at the Treaty made on the River Eyder, between Charles the Great and Hening King of Denmark, which is almost 900 years since; As also that of the Whitfelds, of which the English Whitfields' are an Offspring, who bear the same Arms with the Whitfelds in Denmark, and whose Ancestors came over with King Canute.  
To proceed, the Nobility or Gentry of Denmark (for 'tis the same thing there) enjoy their Estates with high and low Jurisdiction, and have (as the Germane Counts) the liberty of Hunting, hair with hair, and feather with feather. Their Patrimonial Estates are not held in fief, but in free tenure. All Castles, Lands, and Goods, as well movable as , left to them by their Parents, are equally divided amongst the Brothers. In case of Sisters, the Brother has two shares, and the Sister but one. The Mansion Houses and Castles are kept by the Heir-males, but many Lordships are equally divided. Noblemen, that are so well qualified as to merit the King's special favour, may come to great Preferment and Riches. 'Tis out of the Nobility that is chosen the Council of State, the Senators whereof must not exceed the number of 38. The Crown allows each of them a Competency, with some fair Castle in the Country for his Retirements, whilst he is of that Body.  
The Chief Men of this Council are the Ricks Drost, and the Lords Marshal, Admiral, Chancellor, and Treasurer. The Ricks Drost is, as it were, the King's Lieutenant, that manages, resolves, and dispatches the King's Affairs. The Lord Marshal takes care both in Peace and War of all Military Concerns; and the Admiral sees to Maritime Affairs. The Chancellor judges of Civil Causes, and the Treasurer receives the King's Revenues.  
The third Order or Degree, is the Clergy. The Body of which does consist of Ministers, otherwise called the Inferior Clergy. And out of these are chosen the Superintendents or Bishops, for the Church-Government. These are the Overseers, Inspectors, and Heads of the Clergy. Over which there is a general Superintendent, and that is the Bishop (or Archbishop, if you will) of Copenhagen. These Governors of the Church have indeed a Priority both of Place and Power before other Ministers, together with some liberal Maintenance in proportion to it. They have a Power of Presidence in all Church- Assemblies; but so, that they are to take along with them the Advice of other Ministers. From whom they do not otherwise differ, either in Order, Habit, or Title of Dignity. All of them in general, and in particular, are accountable to the Supreme Ecclesiastical Consistory, as in former times to the Provincial or National Synod. Which Consistory is made up of Counsellors of State, and the Heads of the Clergy. In short, both the Revenues and the Power of these Prelates are much Inferior to what it was formerly before the Reformation; so that a Bishop here is little better than Primus inter Pares.  
The fourth Order or Degree consists of Townsmen, Burgesses and Merchants, who have their Privileges peculiar to themselves. Out of these, and from the husbandmen's Children, are chosen the Bishops, Canons, Ministers, and Magistrates of Towns, Clarks of Castles and Fortresses, Ship-Officers, Tollmen, etc. These Magistrates judge the least Causes, but for the most part they have a Precedent out of the Gentry.  
But, of all the Corporations within this Kingdom, none has such Privileges, and truly none deserves such, as the City of Copenhagen. Privileges as to the Freedom of the City and the Increase of Trade. Privileges whereby the City has a Vote in all those Deliberations which concern the public Good. To which add their Privileges in purchasing any Lands and Lordships whatsoever, and enjoying them with the same Rights as the Nobles; In not being burdened with any Impositions the Nobles do not bear, and not that but by public Consent; in being free from all Contributions or Inquartering whatsoever in times of Peace; and lastly, in that the Citizen's Children, whether Ecclesiastic or Civil, are admitted to Honours and public Offices equally with Nobleman's Children, provided they be sit and capable for them. All which Privileges, and several others, the late King Frederick granted this City, when besieged by Charles Gustave of Sweden; that having the more to lose, they might have most reason to defend themselves, as they did effectually.  
The fifth Order or Degree is that of the Countrymen. Which are of two Sorts, the one called Freibunden, that is Freeholders'. These enjoy their Living by Inheritance, but give some small matter yearly. They trade also, and have the Liberty of Fishing. They are not taxed with Servitude or Bondage; neither pay they any Contribution, without the Consent of the Senators and Counsellors of the Kingdom. The other Sort is of such who have not any Land but what they farm of the King, Gentry, or Clergy; and are bound to do Homage for the same, as they make their Conditions.  
The chief Order of Knighthood in Denmark is that of the Elephant. Instituted (as some say) Anno 1478. by King Christiern I, at the Wedding of John his Son and Successor. The Badge of these Knights is a Collar powdered with Elephants towered, supporting the King's Arms, and having at the end the Picture of the Virgin Mary.   

OF THE King of DENMARK'S Foreign Estates.  
And first of NORWAY.  
BEsides the Crown of Denmark, the King has several Estates in Foreign Parts, both Continent and Islands. In the Continent he has NORWAY, a Kingdom that lies North and North-cast from Denmark, from which parted by the Ocean. And 'tis from its Northern Situation that it is so denominated, Norway quasi Tractus (seu Via) Septentrionalis.  
And indeed 'tis the most Northern Country of all Europe, part of it lying in the frigid Zone, I mean the North-cast Parts. Where you will find the North-Cape in the seventy second degree of Latitude, that is about five degrees within the Arctic Circle. So that there is no Night in Summer for about three Months together, and consequently no day in Wintertime during the same space of time.  
This Country runs, as I said before, North and North-east from Denmark; which way it extends itself about 1000 miles. But the Breadth of it is not proportionable, the South-west Parts (where it is broadest) not exceeding 300 miles in breadth from East to West. From whence Northward it grows much narrower. Westward it is bounded with the Northern Ocean; and Eastward with Sweden. Which, together with Norway, makes up that large and famous Peninsule by the Ancients called Scandia or Scandinavia.  
But, before we proceed to the description of Norway, let us take a View of the Northern Ocean, otherwise called the Frozen Sea, as being commonly clogged with Ice in Wintertime. In which Sense Pliny called it Mare Amalchium; Tacitus, Mare Pigrum; and the Cimbrians of old, Marimorusa. Illuc usque tantum Natura, here is the end of Nature, says Tacitus speaking of this Sea. Till the English found the way to Archangel in Moscovy, this Sea was commonly looked upon as Unnavigable. Now this North-east Passage was discovered in King Edward the Sixth's time, Anno 1553, under the Conduct of Richard Chancellor. For which Adventure three Ships were fitted out; but two of them perished with Cold, and all their Men were the next Year found frozen to death in their Ships.  
Along the Coast of Norway, the Sea runs much into Creeks and long Bays, and there is a World of Islands. But it is most remarkable, for that great and famous Gulf or Whirl-pool, called Maelstroom, or Moskestroom, which lies between two Islands near the Coast of Norway.  
A Whirl-pool is a Collection of Waters turning swiftly about, and drawing to itself whatever comes within some distance of it, and having whirled the same to the bottom, casts it up again after a certain time. The fury of which Stream, being so great, has a long time deterred Men from venturing themselves over it. So that Whirlpools were concluded to be unfadomable Abysses of Water. Nay, some would have 'em to be the origininal Cause of the Flux and Reflux; wherein when the Water runs, it is Ebb, and when it runs out, Flood.  
Kircherus in his Tabula Geogr. Hydrogr. is of opinion, that the Sea runs down this Whirlpool under the Land of Norway, and out again at another Whirl-pool within the Gulf of Bothnia, part of the Baltic Sea. And, to strengthen this his Opinion, he says there is a high Rock in the midst of the Stream, and under that Rock an Abyss, through which the Water is swallowed. So that there should be first a Vortex or Whirl-pol, and within it a Vorago or Gulf, that should have its way under Norway, and its outlet within the Gulf of Bothnia.  
But Lucas Jacobson Debes, a Danish Writer, thinks otherwise of it. He says, that where this Whirpool lies the bottom of the Sea arises, and does not descend in deep Cavities; That the Whirl-pool proceeds from round Grounds with Channels or Conduits in them; That if there were any deep Ground to make a swallowing Gulf the Water should not run about (as it does) in such turbulent and boisterous a manner as to be heard some Leagues off at Sea. And his Reason is, because the stillest Waters have the deepest Bottom: But he says that great Noise is occasioned by the narrowness of the Passage for the large Ocean to run through with the Tide to the Continent, and to fall back again into the main Sea. Besides the round Grounds and Channels under Water, where the huge beating and running about of the Sea must needs make a terrible Noise.  
As to what Peter Clauson writes, that what whole Trees that Stream draws in come out again rugged with torn Roots and Branches; 'tis probable enough that happens by reason of those high, round, and sharp Grounds, between which the Trees are whirled about by the strong Stream, so as to beat and wear off the Roots, Branches, Bark, and the uppermost of the Trunk thereof. Of which sort of Trees, says my Author, there comes many ashore to Feroe and Greenland; Which would not be, if there were any pervious Gulf. For then the Hole would be large, and the Water run still round about; and, when any thing came to the Gulf, it would quickly run through it without any damage. Moreover, 'tis observable, that the Inhabitants who dwell on the Islands and the Continent about this Whirl-pool row out upon it when the Wether is good, and the Stream slow in its reflux, and that they catch there abundance of Fish called Sey. Which they would not venture to do, if there were such a thing as a devouring Vorago.  
And yet there may be too a Receptacle, or deep Hole, near the high Rock which is in the midst of the Stream; to receive and keep what the Stream draws in from time to time, and restore it when it runs out again. As for the Rock, it stands in the midst of the Stream, as a Beacon for Seamen, that they should not come into danger.  
The Northern Ocean being exceeding deep, and therefore a fit Habitation for Whales; the Shores of Norway are not a little troubled with those great Leviathans. Against whose violence and fury the Mariners and People of the Sea-coast have found a Remedy; that is Castoreum, or the Oil of Castor, the smell whereof forces them to retire immediately. Otherwise there were no Fishing on these Coasts, which is one of the greatest staple Commodities that the Country yields.  
Castoreum, or the Oil of Castor, has the Virtue to drive the dead Foetus out of its Mother's Womb; and so it has to drive down a Whale, which no sooner smells it but it sinks to the bottom. The Whale has an acute Scent, and doubtless there is a great Antipathy between the Whale and the Castoreum, for this to sink so monstrous a Creature, as soon as that comes within the reach of its Smell. And therefore the Norway Fishermen do seldom go a fishing without it.  
But, besides Castoreum, there is a way to drive Whales with Juniper-wood, whereof the Fishermen cut Chips, and cast them towards the Whale. Which makes it presently retire into the Deep. Now 'tis well known, that the Oil of Juniper has the same virtue as the Castoreum to drive out the Foetus; and by the same reason it may also be, that Juniper Wood (whereof the Oil is prepared) drives down the Whale. From whence some Authors conclude, that all other Medicaments, and their Ingredients expelling the dead Foetus, may have also the virtue to drive down the Whale. Such as Assa foetida, Myrrah, Galbanum, Scammony, Brimstone, Mace, Cinnamon, Rue, Mother-wort, and several others.  
And, as it has been proved by Experience, that a Person who could swim well was drowned, having Castoreum about him, whilst others that were in the Boat, and could not swim, saved their Lives; so 'tis possible that the aforesaid Species have the same virtue for the depression of a Man. And, of so many Men that have suddenly lost their Lives in the Waters, 'tis possible some of them were drowned by the virtue of some of those Things aforesaid, (especially Mace and Cinnamon) which perhaps they had about them.  
But, to come home from my Digression, Norway is a Country for the most part Rocky, and Mountainous. And here is a vast Ridge of Hills, called Sevo, the Alps of the North. They serve for the most part as a Boundary to Norway and Sweden, and are called in Norway Daare-field; but in some Parts of it, as in the Government of Dronthem, Skarsfield, Rund-field, Dofre-field; and betwixt Berghen and Aggerhuis, Fille-field, and Houckle-field. There are in this Country a great many Lakes; but scarce any great Rivers, except in the South Parts.  
As the Country is Rocky and Mountainous, so it is barren, woody, extreme cold, and but ill inhabited. In the best Parts thereof it affords little Corn; and in the most Northern, none at all. So that the common sort of People are fain to use dried Fish, that which we commonly call Stockfish, instead of Bread; but the better sort buy Corn of such Merchants as come to traffic with them. Their chief Commodities are Stockfish, Furs, train-oil, Pitch, Tackling for Ships, and Timber for Building. Which the Inhabitants exchange for Corn, Wine, Brandy, Beer, and other Necessaries.  
Mercator, and Heylin after him, tells us, that this Country is exceedingly troubled with certain little Beasts, which they call Lemmers. They are about the bigness of a Fieldmouse, and are thought by the Inhabitants to drop out of the Clouds in stormy Wether. They, like the Locusts, devour every green thing on the Earth, and at a certain time die all in heaps together. The Stench whereof does so poison the Air, that the poor People are long after troubled with the Jaundice, and with a Giddiness in the Head. Here is also abundance of Bears and Wolves, and amongst them some white Bears of a prodigious Bigness.  
The Towns here are exceeding thin, and in them the Houses for the most part very poor and miserable.  
The Country in general is distributed into five Governments, according to the number of the Castles which command the same. Those are the Governments of Bahuis, Aggerhuis, Bergenhuis, Dronthemhuis, and Wardhuis.  
The Government of Bahuys is the most Southern of all, and lies opposite to the North Parts of Jutland in Denmark. The same is so called from Bahuis, a strong Castle in this Province, in a small Island which the River Trolhetta makes, that comes from the great Lake called Wener. 'Tis within three Leagues of the Sea, and two North of Gottenburg. The same was built Anno 1309, by Aquin TWO, King of Norway. And this is the Prefecture, or Government, which was yielded to the Swedes by the Roschild Treaty, Anno 1658.  
Aggerhuis, the Castle, is situate about twenty Leagues full North from Scagen, the most Northern point of Jutland. This Castle has under its Command, amongst other Towns, Opslo, a Bishops See, and of most esteem for the Courts of Judicature which are kept here. In the year 1646. a Gold Mine was found near this Town, but it fell short of People's expectations.  
Bergenhuis, another of these Castles, is so called from Bergen, the principal Town of the Country, an Episcopal See under the Archbishop of Dronthem, and the ordinary Residence of the Viceroy. This Town is situate amongst high Mountains, at the bottom of a deep Creek, or Arm of the Sea, called Carmesund; all which makes Bergen to be a very good Port, and accordingly much resorted to by Merchants. Ninety mile's South of Bergen, and under its Jurisdiction, you will find Stafanger, a Sea-Town with a good Port, near which is the Fort called Doeswick.  
Dronthemhuis is so called from Drontheim, a Town seated upon a long Arm of the Sea, which reaches a great way into the Continent. The same is furnished with a safe and capacious Port, but of difficult access. Once a famous Place, when it was the Seat of the Norvegian Kings, and an Archbishops See; but now reduced to a Burrow, since the Subjection of this Country to the Danes. For it has no Walls about it, but lies open on all sides. 'Tis true, it has been destroyed several times by fire, and there is still to be seen some Remains of one of the most stately Churches in the North. But this Place could never recover itself to any thing of its ancient Greatness or Splendour, since the Danish Viceroys kept their Residence at Berghen, as a more convenient Place, and to be sure not so extreme cold as the other. For, whereas Drontheim is situate in the 24th degree of Northern Latitude (a cold Seat for a King, or a Viceroy) Bergen is at least two degrees more Southerly. To be short, Drontheim is that Place which the Latins called Nidrosia, as the Italians call it still to this day. And they termed it Nidrosia from Nider, a River which runs before it. There is a Castle to defend it, but none of the strongest.  
And yet it is the largest Prefecture, or Government, reaching from South to North, no less than 500 miles; and from the Ocean Westward to the Kingdom of Sweden Eastward, at least 100 miles. 'Tis true, this Government, by reason of its great Extent, is subdivided into the Prefecture of Drontheim properly so called, which takes up the Southern Parts; and the Prefecture of Salt, which takes up the North Parts. The Whole, by the Roschild Treaty, was granted to the Swedes; but afterwards restored to the Danes, by the next Treaty of the year 1660.  
East of Drontheim lies the Country of Jempterland, formerly part of Norway, and as such belonging to the Crown of Denmark. But, by the Treaty of Bromsbroo, Anno 1645, it was yielded to the Swedes, to whom it has been subject ever since.  
At last we come to Wardhuis, a Government in the sarthest Parts Northward. So called from the Town of Wardhuys, as that is from the Isle Ward (about 120 mile's Southeast of the North-cape) in which it is seated. This Place, which was but formerly mean and poor, is something improved since the North-East Passage to Archangel was found out by the English, it lying in the way for the English and Dutch to touch at, as they go to Moscovy. But, by reason of the extremity of the Cold, and long absence of the Sun for some Months together, it is hardly habitable, and consequently the Sea not navigable. In the Summer time the Governor makes shift to reside in it, but past that Season he shifts to a warmer Place. The Castle was strongly fortified by King Frederick the Second, as well to command the Natives, as to awe the neighbouring Laplanders. For Eastward this part of Norway borders upon the Moscovian; Southward, upon the Swedish Lapland. And truly this Government, at least the East part of it (otherwise known by the name of Finmark) may be called the Danish Lapland. Here is the great Lake Enarak, which parts a great way this Region from the Moscovian Lapland.  
The Norvegians were formerly so warlike a People, that they became terrible to the more Southern Nations. By whom they were called Normans, q.d. Northmen, being at that time a mixture of several Nations of the North, as of Norvegians and Swedes, amongst whom perhaps the Danes did come in. In short, 'tis from them that the fair Province of Normandy in France took that name. For, as the Romans had been routed there by the French, so the French afterwards were routed by the Normans. Who, about the year 800, began their Eruptions out of their Northern Countries; and did so ransack and plague the Maritime Towns of France and the Netherlands, that it was inserted in the Litany, From Plague, Pestilence, and the Fury of the Normans, good Lord deliver us. Charles the simple, to quiet them, and to secure himself, gave them a part of Neustria (from them since called Normannia, or Normandy) together with the Sovereignty of Britanny, enjoyed by them and their Posterity for many Ages. Their first Duke was Rollo, Anno 912, from whom, in a direct Line, the sixth was William called the Conqueror, and crowned King of England, Anno 1067.  
But, since the Norvegians became subject to the Crown of Denmark, their Fury is so much abated, and their Spirits have been so quelled, that they are grown as cold as their Climate. Instead of Invading Nations, they are given to Hospitality; and, far from turning Pirates, they are become great Abhorrers of Theft. In short, they have now the repute of being a sort of good harmless People, without any fraud or deceit. For which they are indebted to the Danes; who, by keeping them low, have not only took away their Strength, but their Courage. And yet it is said, some of them are much given to Witchcraft; and that they are so expert in it, as to be able, by keeping good Correspondence with the Prince of the Air, drive a Trade of Winds.  
As to Christianity, the Norvegians did not embrace the Gospel till the Reign of Olaus, Son of Sueno, King of Denmark and Norway, that is about the Year 1055. The English assisted in the Work; and the good King Olaus was so zealous in it, that he was canonised for a Saint, after his decease. The Reformation was wrought here at the same time, and in the same manner, as it was in Denmark.  
I said from the beginning, that the Norvegians were first conquered by Sueno King of Denmark. In whose Line that Crown continued, till Sueno TWO restored it to the Norvegians. But afterwards, being reunited to the Crown of Denmark, by the Marriage of Aquin King of Norway, and of Margaret eldest Daughter of Waldemar III, King of Denmark, it has ever since continued subject to this Crown. And, though Olaus, the only Son of Aquin, died without Issue; yet the Norvegians liked the Danes so well, that they never offered to assert their Liberties. But, if their stomaches served them now to stir against the Danes, where is their strength to do it? They are poor, and only fit to live (as they do) in an entire submission to their Prince, the King of Denmark; and under Him, to his Viceroy, the Lord Guldenlew.   

Of the Earldoms of Oldenburg and Delmenhorst, in Germany.  
IN Germany the King of Denmark possesses the Earldom of Oldenburg, and under it That of Delmenhorst.  
The Earldom of Oldenburg is a fine Estate in the North-Parts of Westphaly; so called from Oldemburg, the chief Place of it, and the Head of this Earldom. It lies betwixt the Germane Ocean Northward, and the Bishopric of Munster, Southward; the Dukedom of Bremen, Eastward; and East-Friseland, Westward.  
The Soil hereof is exceeding rich, but in Pastures especially. Which breed infinite Herds of , and furnish not this Country only, but some of their Germane Neighbours, and many of the more Northern Nations, with Horses, Beefs, Sheep, Swine, Butter, and Cheese. Here is also good store of Pulse, Barley, and Oats, plenty of Fruits, and Trees of all sorts; large Woods, well stored with Venison, and yielding unto the Gentry the Delights of Hunting. But the Air is pretty cold in Winter, and foggy nigh the Sea. And this is the general Character Mercator and Heylin give us of this Country.  
Eastward it is watered with the River Weser, which parts it from the Duchy of Bremen, and is one of the chief Rivers of all Germany. Some miles to the Westward you will find the Jade, a River which at first was but a Brook scarce worth the naming. It springs out of a Pool or Lake, called the great Mere, and by the way parting (as it were) the Fields from one another, it swollen with the Waters that ran into it, and so fell into the Meers. At last the Banks breaking, through the violence of the Storms, it drowned all the lower Grounds, and made a great Collection of Waters at the River's Mouth, which makes it look more like a Gulf than a River. On this Shore are still to be seen the sad Remainders of seven or eight Parishes, that perished in this Flood.  
The chief Towns hereof are Oldenburg, and Delmenhorst. The first is seated on the River Hont, twenty five miles West of Bremen, and forty East of Embden; which River falls into the Weser, about twelve miles from Oldenburg Eastward. The Town itself is of no great State, or Beauty. But the Castle, where the Earls of Oldenburg dwelled, is still a very good Castle, built of well-hewn Stones, of an orbicular form, with deep Ditches of Water about it. This is the Castle which Walpert, the first Earl of Oldenburg, built about the Year 850, calling it (from his Wife Alteburg) Alteburgum, which by the Germans was turned into Oldemburg.  
Delmenhorst is so called from the River Delme, on which it is situate, about three Leagues to the Westward of Bremen. 'Tis a strong Place, and of great Importance, built in the Year 1247. by Otho, Brother of Earl Christian the Second. But in the time of Gerard Earl hereof (a Prince of an unquiet Spirit, always in Wars and always worsted) this Place was lost to the Bishop of Munster. Having continued in Possession of the Bishops of Munster about sixty four Years, it was suddenly surprised on Palm-Sunday morning by Anthony Earl of Oldenburg, Anno 1547; and ever since that time Delmenhorst has continued part of this Estate.  
Here is also, going from South to North, the Towns of Wardenburg, Ovelgune, Essensham, and Beckeren. And, upon a great Sand that lies betwixt the Mouths of the Jade and the Weser, stood formerly Mellum, a strong Castle, that commanded both the said Rivers. Built for that purpose by an Earl of Oldenburg, but at last lost in the Sea.  
Adjoining to this Province is the Earldom of Jevern; so called from Jevern the chief Place hereof. This Earldom formerly belonged to the Princes of East Friesland, and to this day most Geographers do still reckon it as part of that Country; where it lies Easterly, towards the Sea. The same was bequeathed by the last Will and Testament of the Lady Mary, Countess of Jevern, to John the last Earl but one of Oldenburg. So that upon the Death of Anthony (the last Earl) dying without Issue, the King of Denmark, as being the next Heir, did inherit the Patrimonial Estate. But the Earldom of Jevern fell to the share of Anthony's Sister's Children, the Princess of Zerbst.  
Now, to go farther than we have done yet into the Pedigree of the present Royal Family of Denmark, let us take a view of the Earls of Oldenburg, from whom it is descended. The House of Oldemburg fetches its Pedigree as far as Walpert, a Nephew of Wittikind. Now Wittikind was the last King of the Saxons; who being vanquished by Charles the Great of France, Anno 785, was by him made of a King a Duke of Saxony. But the Male Issue of Walpert his Nephew failing in Frederick, the seventh Earl, the Estate came to one Elimar, a Cousin German of his by the Father's side. From whom in a direct Line descended  
Theodorick, surnamed the Fortunate, the first Earl of Delmenhorst of this Line. He had two Wives, the first called Adelais, Heiress of Delmenhorst; and the second, Hedwige, Daughter of Gerard and Sister of Adolph of Scawemburg, Earl of Holstein and Duke of South Jutland, etc. the Widow of Balthasar Duke of Mecklemburg. He died Anno 1440, leaving three Sons, viz. Christiern, Maurice, and Gerard.  
1440. Christiern, Son of Theodorick by his second Wife Hedwige, Sister and Heir of Gerard and Adolph Dukes of Sleswick and Earls of Holstein, succeeded his Father in this Estate, and enjoyed it till the Year 1448. When, upon the Recommendation of Adolph his Uncle, being elected King of Denmark, he left his Estate in this Earldom (but still reserving the Title) to his Brother Gerard, the better to take him off from his Pretensions to the Dukedom of Sleswick and the Earldom of Holstem, in which he pretended a Share. Maurice, Bachelor of the Sorbonne and Canon of Bremen, married in the Year 1458, and died Anno 1464, having had three Children, who all died in their Infancy.  
1448. Gerard, the third Son of Earl Theodorick, was surnamed the Valiant; and might as well have been called, in opposition to his Father, the Unfortunate, for the Reason's abovesaid. Anno 1453. he married with Adelais Countess of Tecklemburg, by whom he got five Sons and as many Daughters. Those were Gerard, Dieterick, Adolph, Otho, and John. Gerard, the Father, died in Exile, Anno 1500.  
1500. John, who succeeded him, married in the Year 1498. to Ann a Princess of the House of Anhalt. By whom he got three Sons, George, Christopher, Anthony, and one Daughter called Ann, married to Enno the Second, Earl of East Friesland. John repaired the Ruins of his Estate, and settled the Distractions of it in the time of his Father, being then in Exile.  
1526. Anthony, the third Son, was by the Consent of his Brothers preferred to the Earldom. He married Sophia, Duchess of Saxen Lawemburg; by whom he got two Sons, John and Anthony, and three Daughters, Ann, Catharine, and Claire. This is the Earl, who by a sudden Surprise recovered Delmenhorst from the Bishop of Munster, Anno 1547, which he strongly fortified.  
1573. John, Son of Anthony, married with Elizabeth, Daughter of Count Schwartzburg, by whom he got two Sons, and four Daughters. His Sons were John Frederick, who died in his Infancy, Anno 1580, and Anthony-Gontier. His Daughters were 1. Catharine, married to Augustus' Duke of Saxony; 2. Anna Sophia; 3. Mary-Elizabeth; 4. Magdalen, the Wife of Rodolph of Anhalt Prince of Zerbst. This is the Earl to whom the Countess of Jevern in East Friesland bequeathed that Country.  
Anthony Gontier, second Son of Earl John, was his Successor. He was born in Nou. Anno 1583, married in June 1634 or 35. Sophia Catharina, Daughter of Alexander Duke of Holstein Sunderburg, and died without Issue in the Year 1667. At which time Frederick, the late King of Denmark, took Possession of Oldenburg, as next Heir to it.  
Having said thus much of Oldenburg, let us now steer our Course Northward, and see what Dominions the King of Denmark has there, besides the Kingdom of Norway.   

Of the Isles of Schetland, and of Feroe.  
BEfore I come to a Description of these Isles, it will not be improper to take notice in our way of the Orcadeses, which formerly belonged to the Kings of Norway and Denmark. They were called Orcades by the Ancients, which we call now the Orkney Islands. Situate North of Scotland, not far from Cathness, the most Northern Country of all that Kingdom; and separate from one another by some narrow straits. They are in number thirty two, but those of chief note eleven.  
The Kings of Notway held these Isles till the Year 1266; when Magnus, King of Norway, surrendered them up to Alexander III. King of Scotland. Which Surrender some of the succeeding Kings did afterwards ratify. But the Claim was finally relinquished by Christiern I, King of Denmark and Norway, on the Marriage of his Daughter Margaret with King James III, Anno 1474. And then some Money was added to make good the Contract, without which the Danes would not give up their Claim to these Islands.  
Further Northward, about sixty miles, lie the Islands of Schetland and of Feroe, all of them still subject to the Crown of Norway, and consequently to the King of Denmark.  
The Isles of Schetland lie North-east of the Orcadeses; and the Isles of Feroe, Northwest. But the Situation of these last is something further Northward.  
Those are under the 61 and 62 degrees of Northern Latitude, about 60 League's West of Bergen in Norway, and forty North of Scotland. By Cluverius, Sanson, and other Geographers, they are supposed to be the Hemodes of the Ancients.  
One with another they are reckoned to be about twenty six. But they are most of them little rocky Islands, uninhabited.  
The main Island, and that which is worth all the rest, is Schetland, otherwise Hetland, which gives its Name to the whole Cluster. But it goes also, like the chief of the Orcadeses, by the Name of Mainland. 'Tis a long, but narrow Island; reaching from South to North about sixty miles, and sixteen where broadest. This Island is not much inhabited but by the Seaside, because of Fishing, which is the main Thing here. Southward there are high Hills, and Northward there's another, called Renisfelt, on the top of which is kept a great Light for the use of Mariners.  
As the Inhabitants are not very industrious, so they are not much inclined to Vices. 'Tis seldom they drink any strong Liquors to excess; and, when they do, 'tis as rare to see one of them mad-drunk. For Quarrelling does not attend their Drinking. And perhaps this their Temperancy, as much as the wholsomness of the Air, or the nature of the Country, makes them to live so long as they do. Mercator makes mention of one Laurentius, a Native of this Island, who lived in his time. This Man, says he, being above 100 years of Age, was yet so vigorous that he married a Wife; and, when he was 140 years old, still he went with his Boat a fishing in a most unruly, tempestuous, and turbulent Sea.  
The great Dispute amongst the Learned is, whether Schetland or Iseland is the Thule of the Ancients. Thule which the Poets do so often speak of; as Virgil, Tibi serviat ultima Thule, and Seneca, Nec sit Terris ultima Thule. Thule, which the Ancients did report such strange things of, and some of them beyond all belief. Nulla per bruman dies, says Pliny, here's no day for all the Winter; with whom agree Solinus, and many others, as to that particular. Another says more than that, nullum ultra eam diem esse, that beyond this Isle there was no day in any Place, as if here had been the end of the World and Nature. But Pytheas in Polybius goes beyond them all, when he says that in this Isle there was no distinction of the Elements; but a confused Mixture of all together, like the Primitive Chaos of the Poets.  
According to these Authors, 'tis neither Schetland nor Iseland that can be the Thule of the Ancients; and 'twere a hard matter to find out such a Place in any part of the known World. But it is no new thing for remote Places to be strangely represented.  
When all is done, I am apt to be of Dr. Heylins' Opinion, who takes Schetland to be the Thule, for these Reasons following. First Ptolemy places Thule in the 63 degree of Northern Latitude, who differs therein but in one Degree (or there abouts) from the best of our modern Maps. Whereas Iseland is so much further North, that a good part of it is within the Arctic Circle. Pomponius Mela places Thule opposite to Bergen in Norway; which Situation agrees with that of Schetland, but not Iseland. Multae sunt, says Solinus, circa Britanniam Insulae, è quibus Thule ultima, there are many Islands about Britain, of which Thule is the last, or farthest off. So that in his Judgement Thule must be one of the British Isles, which cannot be said of Iseland. Insulas quas Orcadas vocant domuit, despecta est Thule, says Tacitus speaking of Agricola, he subdued the Island called Orcades, and made sleight of Thule. Now Iseland is so far from being kenned by any one of the Orcadeses, that it is almost 5 degrees distant from the nearest of them. And the truth is, Iseland was so far from being known unto the Ancients, that it was hardly known unto those of Norway till about the ninth Century. To which add Gasper Peucerus his Observation, that Schetland is by some Mariners called Thylensel, which includes the name of Thule.  
After all these Arguments, who can almost doubt but that Schetland (not Iseland) is really the Thule of the Ancients.  
But, besides Schetland (or Mainland) there are two other Islands Northeastward, of a pretty bigness; viz. Zell, and Wust, by some called Yell and Vnst.  
These Islands and the rest being much of the same nature and constitution as those of Feroe, I shall not stay to give you a particular Account of those of Schetland, but proceed to those of Feroe. Which, as wild as they are, will find us more diversion and variety than far better Countries. And therefore I intent to dwell here a while, under the principal guidance and conduct of a Danish Author, Lucas Jacobson Debes, Master of Arts, and Provost of the Churches there. A Man of Learning, and in all likelihood of as great Integrity.  
The Islands of Feroe lie Westward from those of Schetland, and something more Northward. The height of the Pole or Latitude thereof is at the South end 61 degrees 15 minutes, and at the North end 62 degrees 10 minutes. So that there is but little night in Summer. Neither are the Winter nights so tedious long as one might imagine, because the Crepusculum and Diluculum are something longer here than elsewhere, which takes off much from the night. For in the midst of Winter one may perceive something of the day at eight a clock in the Morning, and at four a clock at Night.  
The name of Feroe, by which these Islands are called, is probably derived from a Danish Word which answers to our Ferry. Now Feroe consisting of many Islands, where one must cross with Boats and Ferries, 'tis likely enough that from thence this Land might be called Feroe.  
When Grimar Camban, a famous Pirate or Sea-robber, came first to these Islands, he found them uninhabited. And the truth is in those times, when Piracy was honourable, the very Orcadeses, as well as the Isles of Schetland, were but the Mansions of Robbers and Pirates. But in the Reign of Pulcricomus, King of Norway, many considerable Men, with their Wives and Children, Goods and Movables, took their Habitation in the Feroe Islands, which Name was then known in Norway.  
They are in number 17 inhabited Islands, besides several Holmes, or Islets. Amongst which these are the largest, viz. Stromoe and Osteroe Northward, than Suderoe Southward. Next to which in bigness you will find Northeastward, Calsoe, Cunoe, Bordoe, Videroe, Suinoe, Fuloe; then West of Stromoe, Waagoe; and betwixt Stromoe and Suderoe, Sandoe.  
The Whole extends itself from North to South about 60 miles; and from East to west 40.  
The Inhabitants talk of a Floating Island, that their Ancestors and themselves have seen during some Hours, on the North of these Islands. Where they discerned Hills and Dales on it, and running Rivers gliding through the green Valleys. Perhaps it might be the same which Paul Badsted, a Skipper, discovered in April Anno 1611, about eleven League's Southeast of Feroe Islands. Who, together with two Clergymen that came along with him to Feroe, related how being by stormy Wether driven out of their course to the South thereof, perceived an Island; and how being come near it they saw it perfectly, green with Grass towards the Seaside, with Rocks and Cliffs near the Land. They saw Rivers running through the Island with high Hills and Promontories, not unlike in all Circumstances to the Islands of Feroe. But, perceiving no other Islands by it, they found themselves to be deceived, and so made to the North. The Island of Enckhupson found by the Hollanders under the 65 degree of Northern Latitude, 45 Leagues Northwest of Feroe, seems to confirm that Opinion, since it is no more to be found.  
My Author leaves it modestly to every one's Judgement, whether such a mass of hard Rocks could float. If they were, says he, of the nature of a Pumice stone, it might be so; but than it would ever float. The Ancients indeed did believe Delos a floating Island, till such time as it gave Birth to Diana and to Apollo. As for floating Islands in fresh Water, grown together with Roots, and covered with lose Earth, decked with Grass, 'tis a Thing not to be denied. There was such a one upon a Lake near Moscow, when I was there an Attendant on the Right Honourable the Earl of Carlisle, in his Embassy from the King to Czar of Moscovy.  
Suinoe, one of the second Rate Islands, is believed by the Inhabitants to have been a floating Island; and they are of opinion, that if one could come to the Island that has been so often seen, and cast a piece of Steel upon it, the Island would remain fast. Which agrees with the Diver's superstitious Practice, who lay steel upon what they find at the bottom of the Sea, that Spirits may not remove it.  
My Author is a little Incredulous as to the point of floating Islands, and takes it for a mere Illusion of the Devil. But, if a little Castoreum has the virtue to drive down a great Whale into the bottom of the Sea, why can't there be some secret Thing in Nature to bear up an Island floating?  
But, to come home to our Feroe Islands, they are in themselves but high Rocks, rising out of the Sea, and strangely divided from each other by deep and rapid streams of Water. 'Tis true the Valleys and the sides of the Hills are almost every where covered about two foot thick of Earth; which produces abundance of Grass, and not a little Corn.  
In Summer the Air is temperately warm, not very hot at any time; neither is the Winter very cold, considering the Climate. It seldom freezes there a month together, neither is the Frost then so hard as to produce Ice in the open Inlets. Wherefore all Horse and Sheep keep the Fields during the whole Winter, and seldom come under shelter.  
The cause of such mild Air is the Sea. Which, being warm both by its saltness and perpetual motion, does ever produce warm Vapours that temper the Air, and take away the rigour of its coldness.  
But then the Air being moist, and the Clouds watery, from thence proceed such strange Storms and terrible Winds, as if the Hills would be torn to pieces. Winds that sometimes tear up the Stones from the ground, turn up the earthen Crust from the Rocks, and roll it together as one might a piece of Lead. Which stormy Winds are very variable, and come in terribly by Gusts, according as the Gaps are between the Tops of the Hills, where the Winds gather and throng themselves through with a wonderful Force. And yet sometimes, during such a Storm, (a Thing almost Incredible) those that live in the Valleys under those Mountains are in so still a condition, that you may go from one House to another with a Light burning. But 'tis observable, that, before the said impetuous Wind comes to blow at that furious rate, the Houses crack and make a noise, as if they would fall down. Tho afterwards they are not much moved, even in the stress of Wether.  
In short, there is no Place more subject to Whirlwinds than these Islands. Which consisting of Hills so high that the Wind can't blow straight forwards, but now hits against one corner, then against another, and so against a third, it happens that those stormy Winds meeting one another, struggle (as it were) for Passage, and fight together. Thus having a long time stormed about between the Hills, it comes down over the Inlets, where they whirl round about a great way into the Sea. In which case a Boat must presently let fall its Sails, or else it is overturned. And Ships sometimes have been lost through those Gusts from the Mountains.  
'Tis observed now and then on Land, that, when it is pretty good Wether, one of those Whirlwinds will come on a sudden so furious as to beat a Man down from his Horse, sometimes Man and Horse, and strike down those that go on foot. But such as are used to the Country can easily perceive its coming, by the terrible Bustle it makes amongst the Cliffs, while it is still Wether below. Then the Rider alights from his Horse, and lays himself on the Ground.  
This is that sort of Whirlwind which the Greeks called Eenephias, that is a Storm breaking out of the Clouds. Which happens often at the Cape of Good Hope. Where the People do no sooner perceive a little Cloud over the Table-Mount (a certain Presage of a terrible Whirlwind) but they run amain to their Ships, and drive 'em off from the Land, so to preserve themselves and their Shipping.  
The Story of Anderson, a Priest of Suderoe (one of the chief Islands of Feroe) is so prodigious a Story, that it is almost past belief. Travelling to Sumboe, one of his Parishes, he came to Sumboe Horse, a Clift above 200 fathoms high. This Clift has several points, by reason of which (besides the height of the Hill) whether the Wind blows to or from the Land, there may be caused a strong Whirlwind. The Priest being come near the edge of the Promontory, there came a strong Whirlwind, that took and carried away both Him and his Horse. But a stronger Whirlwind, coming directly against it, threw him again on the Land, without any hurt.  
Here is also the Hurricane (or Whirlwind) so common in the West Indies, and called in Greek Typhon. This is form in the Clouds, from whence it strikes down with such a sudden and mighty Whirl, that it tears all to pieces. Sometimes out of the Land it takes up Trees, Bushes, Stones, Flesh, and what else it meets with; as out of the Sea, it draws up such an incredible quantity of Water, as to make deep Cavity's in the Sea, till it runs together again. And what Fishes are then in that Water are drawn up by such a Whirlwind, and let fall in another place. Thus it comes to pass sometimes, that it reins Stones, Flesh, Mice, and in Norway their Lemmers. In Kolter, a small Island on the West side of Stromoe, there is a Hill at least 200 Fathoms high; on the highest top of which a World of Herrings were found spread along. These, without doubt, were carried by a Whirlwind thither; the Sea (when most boisterous) seldom casting any Fish on land. For, as in stormy Wether Birds hid themselves in Trees, Holes, and Nests; so the small Fishes, when the Sea grows too strong for them, float on the Deep, to save themselves there as long as the Storm lasts.  
The Winds that naturally blow here are West and Southwest, especially in the Spring and Summer. And it frequently happens, that on the side of the Land where the Wind blows, there is Rain and bad Wether, whilst on the other side 'tis fair and clear. The Reason of which is the great height of the Land.  
Here is no Thunder in Summer, says my Author, but the other Seasons are not free from it.  
In short, the Air of Feroe is very wholesome, free from Pestilence, Infection, and contagious Diseases. And how can it be otherwise where there is so much Wind and Thunder to purify the Air? Besides that a running Stream flows almost by every Man's House, washing away all Impurities that might infect the Air. To which add the salt Vapours of the Sea, which keep the Air from Corruption, as Salt itself keeps Bodies from Putrefaction.  
From the Air I proceed now to the Water. And the first that offers itself to our Consideration is the Sea, which surrounds these Islands on every side, and is sometimes a Terror to them; as you may guests by the following Exemples. Kolter, the little Island aforesaid, is exposed on the West side to the open Sea, and there is towards the Main a Promontory thirty Fathoms high. Yet the Sea does almost every Winter break over it with a Western Wind, and that in such Quantity, that the Inhabitants are sometimes in danger of being drowned. On a corner of the same Promontory there lay formerly a large Stone six foot long, and four foot thick and broad. Which Stone the proud Sea tumbled about, and threw some Paces off from the place where it lay before. This my Author urges for a perfect Truth; a thing more to be wondered at than easy to conceive.  
After a great Storm, when the Fishers row out to fishing, the Sea is still so agitated inwardly, that the Fishers sometimes can see no Land.  
The Tides are the same here as in other Places, where it ebbs six hours and flows the like space of time. Yet their Course is different, according as they beat against the Rocks and Points of Land, and as the Ground is under them. Eastward the Water rises but three Fathoms, but Westward it rises seven, though the distance be but forty miles that way. And one may easily perceive the Sea to rise higher at West of Suderoe than at East; though the Land, where it is broadest, be not above eight miles broad.  
Between these Islands there run also many strong Currents; and that in several manners, according as the Necks or Points of Land meet against the Streams, and according to the Situation of the said Land. Which causes especially in Winter, (when there is a Storm, and the Wind blows against the Tide) a terrible and turbulent Sea. For then the Sea does raise and tumble itself about, and breaks so strongly against the Land, that no Ship hardly can get safe over, even where it is deep enough. Now these Grounds, with breaking Waves, are called Buffs in the Language of Feroe.  
And it is observable, that in bad Wether the Sea breaks three or seven times together, without ceasing, and then resteth some time. Therefore, when the Inhabitants come to a breaking Place, and must needs over it, they lie still till the Buff has broken, and then get over it speedily with their Boat.  
But the Sea breaks also in still Wether, when it is very warm, or when there will be Frost or Snow. Also, when a Boat goes over too near the Land.  
Which strange Motion of the Sea has given occasion to the Inhabitants to think, that the Sea is sensible, and that those Breaking Places cannot endure the Iron of a Boat. But let us see in short our Danish Writers Philosophical Reflections upon it.  
As to the Seas breaking up a certain number of times, he looks upon't as an Arcanum Naturae; and only says that happens by the Providence of God, who has created all things according to Weight, Measure, and Number. And for the breaking of them against warm Wether, or against a Northwind, and Snow, thus he states the Case. All Motion, says he, that happens between the Elements and other Being's that have neither Sense nor Life, does happen by a magnetical Sympathy or Antipathy. And this he proves by the Loadstone, by Antidotes, Metals, and Minerals. At last he concludes thus. Though the Elements, says he, are in their Nature so contrary to one another; yet the one will not (nor can) be without the other, suffering each other by a Temperature. And, when this is wanting, so that there be either excess or defect, than Nature suffers, and is moved by Antipathy. By which Reason this unexpected Motion doth happen in the Water over those Grounds called Buffs.  
For it is seen in Feroe, that in still Wether, when the Air is warm, so that there arises a Fog from the Sea rendering the Air dusky, not only the Currents run much swifter and stronger than at other times, but also the Sea grows stormy, and the Buffs break. Which happeneth, because of that Antipathy that is between Water and Warmth in its Excess, whereby Water suffereth in its Nature.  
So, when in Winter there will come a strong Frost and Snow, the Currents grow stronger, the Sea beats, and the Buffs arise, though it be never so still Wether. The Reason is, because cold Wether altars the temper of the Water, and takes off from its natural warmth. So that it cannot keep its innate fluidity; but must, contrary to its own nature, let itself be changed to a standing rigid matter, called Ice. Which Change this Element perceives beforehand, and accordingly moves itself by the virtue of its magnetical Antipathy.  
But for the Buffs to break, when there comes a Boat over them, this perhaps has a far more hidden Cause. Though it may happen by a magnetical virtue of these Grounds about which they break. So that, the Loadstone by its sympathy attending the Iron of the Boat, the shallow Water not being able to endure it, rises itself upon it.  
As nature has wonderfully framed the Shell of a Snail, so she forms the like figures in the Air for Whirlwinds, and in the Ground for Whirlpools.  
Feroe, a Land of Prodigies, has no less than three Whirlpools. The one, between these three North-East Islands, Videroe, Suinoe, and Bordoe, not very dangerous. The other South of Sandoe, dangerous when there is a Storm, or a strong Stream. The third, at South of Suderoe, running about Sumboe Munk, very terrible and dangerous of itself, especially when there is a Storm and a strong Current. For than it draws to itself, and swallows up whatever comes near it. Neither can a Ship avoid it, if she approaches it too near; as I might bring Instances of it. And yet, when it is still Wether, a mild Sea, and the reflux of the Stream, folks will venture themselves to fish thereon.  
John Jonason of Suderoe is said to be the first that durst undertake to row over this Whirlpool, and to fathom it. According to his Relation, there are four several round Circles of Ground about it; with Channels between, and a deep hole in the middle. The uppermost Ground is from eight to twelve fathom deep; and the lowermost, from eighty to ninety.  
On the East-side, where the Ground gins, there is a Gulf where the stream runs in as through a Sluice. And on the Southside of the Hole there arises out of the Water a Rock ten fathoms high, called Sumboe-Munk. with six lesser Rocks North of that which rise a little above the Water. On these Rocks the Compass turns round, even as the Whirlpool; and is so spoiled, that afterwards it is of no use. To this purpose my Author makes mention of a Ship, which coming too near Sumboe-Munk, all the Compasses in the Ship were spoilt. And so had been the Voyage too, had not a Sea man of the Ship by chance had a Loadstone, wherewith he touched the Compasses a new.  
As for fresh Water, 'tis a wonderful thing to see a Cluster of such small Islands as these in the midst of the Ocean so well furnished as they are with well-tasted and wholesome Water. So that there is scarce a Cottage but there runs along a Spring-water, a Rivulet or Brook; whose Water is generally colder in Summer than in Winter. And yet there is but one healing Spring, viz. in Osteroe, the Water whereof is much warmer in Winter than other Water, and will keep a whole Year without Corruption. But the Inhabitants have no great occasion for it, neither is it easy to come at. In the Island Suderoe there is a little Lake pretty high on the Mountain, that ebbs and flows with the Sea.  
Thus having done both with the Air and Water of Feroe, let us now take a prospect of the Land. I said before, that these Islands in themselves are only some high Rocks arising out of the Sea, and covered with a thin portion of Earth, that is usually not above two foot thick. Which portion of Earth does not only produce a great plenty of Grass, but of Corn.  
And indeed in several Places Grass is found so plentiful, and withal so juicy, that Oxen feed thereon all the year round, and grow extremely fat. As for the Corn, could the Land be tilled every where, as in other Places, it would go beyond other Countries of the same bigness. But here a Countryman cannot sow above one or two Tuns of Corn. Now for one Tun of Seed, in many places, they reap again twenty or thirty Tuns, especially in the South Islands. Here is nothing sowed but Barley, for other Seeds will not come to maturity; and there being but little of that sowed, there is the more ground for Pastures.  
'Tis very remarkable, that the North and North-east Parts are the most fruitful, and produce the finest Pastures; as if the cold North or North-East Winds could cause more fertility than the South, or South-West, which are warm and moist, as having more the Sun's assistance. And, whereas the old Grecians called the West-wind Zephyrus, as that which caused Life in Plants, here (as in Greenland) we find the contrary in Pastures. Which may be attributed to the Saltpetre there is in North-East Rain and Snow. For Salt is a main Ingredient to make the Earth fertile; and 'tis well known that Dunghills, where the Urine of  remains and rots, are best for dunging. In Feroe they usually take Seaweeds from the shore, and lay them on heaps to rot, therewith to dung their Ground, which then bears abundance of Corn.  
One would think, that in these Northern Islands those Parts where the Sun shines most should be the most fruitful. But it proves otherwise, those Places that lie less open to the Sun being the most fertile. And indeed the fruitfulness of the Earth does not so much depend upon its being near the Sun, as from its own Constitution and natural warmth, by virtue whereof the Plants have their growing motion. The Sun's warming of the Earth in the Daytime would prove but fatal to Plants, if the Night did not cool and moisten what the Sun has dried in the day. And in the Torrid Zone nothing could grow for the heat of the Sun, if the Night there, being almost as long as the Day, did not by its Cooling and Dew qualify the Day's scorching Heat. And 'tis observable, that here in the midst of Summer, when in two months' time there is almost no Night, Corn grows but very little though it reins, or Herbs though they be watered in dry weather. But, when the Nights begin to be longer, both Corn and Herbs grow more in a Night and Day, than otherwise in fourteen.  
As Denmark is praised for its Scurvygrass, Norway for its Gentianes and Chamaemorus, and Iseland for its Angelica; so Feroe ought to bear the Prize for its Rhodian Root. Whose Water being distilled, is found in odour and taste to be most like Rose-water. Here grows also abundance of tormentil, Scurvygrass, and Angelica. The first is made use of by these Islanders to tan their Hides with, they having no Bark of Trees.  
For here grow no Trees, but some Junipershrubs, and Willow-bushes. Fruit-trees will not thrive here, because perhaps of the Saline damps of the Sea. But for Fuel, this Country is provided with abundance of Turf. Which is so rare good in some Places, that Smiths use it instead of Sea-coals to work their Iron with.  
As for Metals and Minerals, 'tis likely there might be found some Copper and Iron Mines, by reason of some small Rivulets running down the Hills in Summer, which are found to grow as green as Verdigreace in dry weather. In the North Islands there is Talk, but in very little quantity.  
On the Sand, near the Seaside, there are found in some Places little transparent Stones, so hard that with them one may write upon Glass. They are generally white, or of a bluish white Colour; and so polished, that they serve to put in Rings. They grow in the Cliffs, and the Sea washes 'em off. Here is also to be found some Crystal, but brittle, and not to be wrought.  
The Fairy's Kidney (which some call a Stone, and others a West-India Bean) is also frequently seen here. 'Tis shaped like a Heart, or Kidney; and it has been the Opinion of some People, that being kept long it brings forth another Stone. According to my Author, it has a hard outward Shell of a Chestnut colour, with a sweet Kernel within, and is brought hither by the Stream from such Places where it falls off its stalk into the Sea.  
The  of Feroe is for the most part little, but fat, according to the Ground it feeds on. The Horses, as little as they be, are incredibly strong, sure, and swift, though without horseshoes. They feed abroad both Winter and Summer, without ever coming under shelter. The Cows likewise go often out to Grass the whole Winter, provided there fall not too much Snow. But the Sheep feed abroad all the Winter over.  
'Tis true that in a hard Winter, when there falls a hasty and lasting Snow, they suffer incredible hardship, especially if the Shepherd be not present to drive them into the Snowshelter; Which is a Place in the open fields (like a Fold) enclosed with fences of Earth and Turf against the North, that Sheep may shelter themselves there. For than they gather themselves close together in the open field, where a great Snow soon covers them. So that sometimes they are not to be found, and remain a whole Month under the Snow. Where they are fain to eat the grass by the roots, and the Wool off of one another. The wild ones, that go often upon the edge of the Cliffs over the Sea, run also a great hazard after a great Snow. For sometimes the Snow tumbles down into the Sea, and they along with it, hundreds at once. Such Accidents as these fall heavy upon the Owners, considering that the Riches of these People does most consist in their Sheep.  
Which being half wild, and in some places quite wild, cannot easily be driven into a Pound, but must be taken with Dogs. Now these Dogs are so taught, that when the Shepherd will have but one Lamb of the Flock for some occasion, he goes into the fields with his Dog; and what Lamb he only points at, the Dog takes the same presently without hurting it. These Dogs are long and small, not unlike Greyhounds; which being well taught, are much valued, because of this Sheep's hunting. The Horses also are so well skilled in it, that, when a Horse overtakes a Sheep, he grasps it between his forelegs, till the Man takes it up.  
As wild as these Sheep are, they seldom go from their Owner's Ground into another Man's, but keep close together every flock by itself, and that too in the same Close, where it is usual to have several Flocks. Northward they are generally white, Southward black and coloured. A white Sheep set on Lille-Dimen (an Islet East of Suderoe) changes its colour, and grows black in process of time; first about the Legs, then on the Thighs, after that under the Belly, and finally all over. The Cause whereof is perhaps in the Earth, there being found much Brimstone and Saltpetre.  
Here is also great Plenty both of Land and Sea-Fowls, some profitable, and others damageable; some not unlike ours in England, others we are strangers to. But I shall not insist upon them.  
As for Venomous Beasts, such as Serpents and Snakes, there's none to be found here; the nature of the Earth being such, that it cannot bear them.  
Fish they have in great plenty, such as Whiteing, Flounder, a kind of Pilchards they call Murt, and Cod. They take also in Winter time a world of Sea●●●●gs in their Vaults or Caves under the Cliffs near the Sea, whither they retire themselves in September, to bring forth their young ones.  
To take them, first the Islanders have a peculiar sort of small Boats for to go into those Caves with, and they usually go thither with two Boats. Whilst the one goes in, the other stays without at the entrance of the Cave. Between the Boats there is a long Tow, of about eighty fathoms, that if the Boat which goes in should be filled with Water (as it sometimes happens) the other may pull it out with the People in it. The Cave being narrow, they have a pointed stake on each side, wherewith they thrust themselves in. And, that they may see to kill the Seals in so dark a place, they carry with them two Candles, as thick as a man's Arm. These Candles they hid in the Boat, till they be ready for execution. Being come so far in the Cave as to feel ground (which they try with their pointed slaves) first one man leaps out from the Boat into the water as deep as he can wade, with a Club in his hand, to fell the Seal-dog. Then leaps the second man after him, holding the Candles in his hands as high as he can, that the water may not put them out. After them comes the third Man, with his felling Club. An old Seal, especially if it be a He, will not flee from a Man, but stands it out stoutly. A she is not so fierce, and flees from the Man, if she can. The young ones lie all still, and never take notice of men nor light, till they come and kill them.  
They all lie on dry ground, for they are Amphibious. And, when the old ones begin to see the Light and the Men coming at them, they rise on their Paws, with their Jaws open, to meet the Blow with, or to do mischief if they can. Thus standing in their own defence, the first man comes on with his Club. And, whilst the Seal-dog snatches his Club from his hands, and casts it away, another man strikes him with his Club over the Neck. If he hits him right, the Seal falls down in a Swoon, and presently the Men cut his Throat. When they have done with the old, they come to the young ones, that lie all still far enough from the Water. The Slaughter being over, they hale the dead Seals to the Waterside, and tie them fast to the Rope, wherewith those in the Boat pull them out of the Cave. That being done, the Men get out with their Boat; or, if the Waves be great, the Boat and Men are also haled out.  
In this manner they get sometimes half a hundred Seals in one Cave, the old ones being twice as big as a Masty Dog. They use their Skins for Shoes, melt the Fat into train-oil, and eat the Flesh of them.  
They have also a peculiar way to take Whales, especially the small sort of them called Grind-Whales. Which sometimes come in great Flocks under the Land in foggy Wether, or with the Tide in a dark Night, and running on the Lands lie dry when it is low Water. So that, when Folks come out in the Morning, all their Business is to seize upon and hale them away.  
But the best Sport is, when the Inhabitants must drive them into their Creeks or Inlets to catch them. For then the Country to be sure must run, and be up in Arms. Presently they bring as many Boats together as they can, and their Whale-spears with them. They drive the Whale-flock before them, with great noise, and casting of Stones. And, if there be occasion, the Boats divide themselves into two Squadrons, the one lying below in the form of a halfmoon, to meet any Whale that would flee during the Slaughter; the other advancing into the midst of the Flock, and thrusting their Whales-spears into their Bodies. On the Land side there are Folks lying in an Ambush, till the Whales are come on Ground. Then they wade as deep as they can, and kill them with their Weapons. Which is done with such Fury on both sides, that the Water takes the Tincture of Blood; and that does so blind the Whale, that she cannot see to make her escape. These Creatures, as strong as they are, make little or no Resistance; but only plunge as well as they can before the Boats and People, till Death comes upon them. And then indeed they strike so terribly about with their Tails, that sometimes they beat the Boats to pieces, and the men are in great danger. Some of these Whales get again lose from the Sands, and carry the Boats a great way with them on their Backs, striking them full of Water, and sometimes overturning them. But the Rear-Squadron of Boats drives them in again, unless they do plunge and dive so long away under Water, that they must let them go.  
Here is also another sort of Whales, called Doglings, which is taken after an incredible manner. But the Inhabitants dare not venture upon the great Whales, such as the Roar and Witch-Whale.  
In the Year 1664. there appeared, says my Author, a Whale-Dog, that is a Sea Monster every way like a Dog, which swum about the Whales, between them and the Land. It was, says he, of a grey colour, hairy, and had long Ears like an English rough Spaniel. And in the Year 1670. there was seen West of Suderoe a Mermaid close by the Land, during two hours and a half. She stood upright above the Water, having long Hair on her Head spread on the Water, and holding a Fish in her hand, with the Head downwards.  
As for the People of Feroe, they live along the Seaside, and dwell where it is lowest and most convenient for them to get to Sea with their Boats, and ply their Fishing. Which Places are scarce enough, there being almost every where high Promontory's, whence no Body can come down. Their Houses are low built, and on all sides well defended with thick Walls, made of green Turf and Stones. They have a great many Creeks, Inlets, and good Havens; and amongst these Thorse-haven in Stromoe is the most considerable.  
The Air being pretty wholesome, and the Inhabitants using always one Diet, here are usually found Folks that live to a great Age, as 80, or 90, some 100 years and above. My Author makes mention of one Erasmus, who lived in Harold Sound in the Northern Islands. This Man, having got no Issue by his first Wife, and desiring to leave an Heir of his Body, married again, he being then about ninety Years old. He married a young Woman, by whom he got five Children, and he was 103 years old when he got the last. Neither is the thing liable to Suspicion, considering his Wife was a Woman of very good Repute, and that would not impose upon him. At last he died, 110 years old.  
Though this Country lies all upon the Sea, yet it is so far from being troubled with Agues, that some who had it, and could not be quit of it in other Places, lost it by coming hither, without using any Medicine. Neither are Children troubled here with the Small Pox, except it be brought hither from Foreign Parts. 'Tis true this Country, as well as others, has its particular Discases.  
In the Spring and after Harvest, they are generally affected with a strong Rheum, that makes them cough and spit, and causes such an Headache and pain in the Limbs, that many are bedrid with it, and some dye of it. Against this Sickness, which doubtless proceeds from a cold and moist Air, they drink sour Whey as hot as they can suffer it. This Sickness, when they come off well, does them a great deal of good; purging (as it does) the Body of all Impurity, contracted by the cold moisture of the Air, which might cause otherwise more dangerous Discases.  
They are also sometimes troubled with a Hot Sickness, causing acute Pains in the Head and Distractions, with Flux of the Belly, which carries off a great many People.  
The Scurvy is a Discase this People is also subject to, who cure themselves usually with new Milk boiled with Scurvygrass, and sometimes with new Milk alone.  
But Leprosy, the next Kin to Scurvy, is the worst and nastiest of all their Diseases. Now Physicians reckon three sorts of Leprosy, viz. Tyria, Alopecia, and Elephantiasis. In the first the Patient's Skin is soft, with many Spots and white Warts thereon, and sometimes it falls off in Shells. Those that are infected with the second have a red Face, and their Beards and Eyebrows fall off. The third sort is that which the People of Feroe are troubled with.  
And this is called Elephantiasis, from the Elephant, to whom they grow like in their Skin. The Face and Limbs of almost all the Infected are full of blue Knobs, that break out sometimes as boils, which deforms them strangely. They are hoarse besides, and speak through their Noses. This Sickness takes them most in the Spring and Fall, and then many dye of it. The same is caused as the Scurvy, by the Rawness of the Air; but especially by the wretched Diet of the poorer sort of People, who eat Flesh and Fish half rotten, and fresh Fish without any Salt. Whereby the Blood being corrupted, the Sickness gnaws itself a great while through the Body, till at last it breaks out. So that many People are infected with this contagious Disease long before they seem to be so; and many do marry together, thinking to be clean on both sides, when afterwards one of them is found to be infected. But 'tis very remarkable, that this Disease (which is commonly so catching in Conversation) is not so amongst married People, where one would think it should be most contagious. Nay, it has been frequently seen, that the Children of leprous Women, or of healthful Women married to leprous Husbands, have been free from that Uncleanness. Which is the Reason why these People in their Wooing take no great care whether the Parents have been clear or no.  
Flannel is the common Wear here. And, instead of Beds, they lie on nothing but Hay, with a piece of Flannel spread over it.  
They are pretty laborious and industrious withal, not inclined either to idle Pastimes or scandalous Plays. In their Weddings indeed, and at Christmas, they divertise themselves with Dancing, and singing of some old Champion's Ballad. And at their vacant Hours they love to play at Chess; wherein many, both Men and Women, are very expert. They are by Nature something inclined to Astronomy, and will not easily be weaned from their old Customs, good or bad. Their Language is that of Norway, but mixed with many Danish Words.  
As their Predecessors, together with those of Iseland, Schetland, and the Orcadeses, used to swear Allegiance to the Kings of Norway, so they have done the like to the Kings of Denmark, since they got the Crown of Norway. They have no particular Laws, as in Iscland, but govern themselves after the Law of Norway. And, as they got their Laws from Norway, so from thence they got their Religion. For here they are Lutherans, as in Norway.  
There are in all but thirty nine Parish-Churches, and those but little Churches neither, commonly built with Norway-deals, and without covered with Stones. As their Congregations lie very much scattered from each other, so their Ministers have a great deal of Pains, and undergo great Dangers in Winter. The Churches that are far remote on the little Islands cannot always be attended, because of Storms and bad Wether. So that the Parsons of those Places visit their Congregations but once in five or six Weeks, as the Season of the Year will give them leave. The Parson of great Dimen goes thither but in the Summer; and, when he comes there, such is the nature of the Island all surrounded with Cliffs, that he must be drawn up and let down with a Rope.   

Of Iseland, Greenland, New Denmark, etc.  
THese three Countries, all of them acknowledging the King of Denmark for their Sovereign, lie towards the North-Pole. The first, within the Arctic Circle, is counted in Europe; the second, in Terra Polaris Arctica; the third, in the Northern America.  
Iseland is a great Island, about 60 Leagues Northwest of the Isles of Feroe, and 180 West of Norway. The Arctic Circle runs almost through the very middle. It is called Iseland, quasi Iceland, from the abundance of Ice in it and about it, as being continually frozen for the space of eight months. And indeed, it is so vehemently chilled with the Northern Winds, that it yields neither Corn, nor Trees, except Juniper. Yet there is Grass in such abundance, especially along the Sea-coast, that the People sometimes keep their Cartel from feeding, for fear of a Surfeit. Whereas the Inland Parts are but hilly, and batrens.  
The Length of the Island from East to West is 130 Leagues; and its Breadth from North to South, 60. It is divided, according to the Quarters of the World, into four Parts; viz. North, South, East, and West Iseland.  
Here are Horses, Sheep, and Oxen; but the Oxen and Cows without Horns. Here is also a fine breed of little Dogs, known amongst us by the name of Iseland Dogs, and much like those of Maltha, the delight of Ladies. This Country is likewise noted for its white Falcons and white Ravens, Eagles with white Tails, Hares and Bears of the same colour. Fish is the Staple commodity of the Country, of which here is great plenty, and that of the best sort; a piece of Iseland Ling being counted with us a Noble Dish.  
Notwithstanding the cold Condition of this Island, yet it burns within in some places, and is full of Fire under ground. For there are three Mountains, whose Tops are always covered with Snow, and yet continually burning. The principal whereof is Hecla. Which (like the Sicilian Aetna) doth vomit out dreadful flames; then black Ashes and Pumice-stones, in so great abundance, that it darkneth the Sun, and makes the Country for six miles round about it to be uninhabited. And, as the gross Papists take Mount Aetna to be the Place of Purgatory, so the Superstitious amongst the People of Iseland fancy Hell to be under their flaming Mountain. Whereas to Judicious men the natural Reason of these Flames are plain and obvious, being occasioned by those Veins of Brimstone, on which the foundation of the Hill is laid.  
And indeed here is found so much of that Mineral, that a vast quantity thereof is exported from thence into Foreign Parts. Here are also many Baths and Fountains of hot Water, which have Sulphur swimming at the top. And Moreri tells us of a Lake besides, that petrifies whatever is cast in it.  
This Island has been generally conceived to be that Thule, which the Poets so often speak of. But I should rather conceive it to be Schetland, for the Reasons I brought (page 113.) when I spoke of that Island.  
At the first Planting of Iseland, the People did not trouble themselves with building Towns; but every one seated himself where he thought convenient, dwelling in Cells and Caverns digged in the bottom of the Rocks, near the Sea, for the conveniency of fishing. And to this very day the Inland Parts have not many Houses. Whereas the Seacoasts are grown pretty Populous, since the coming of so many Strangers. But especially about the Havens of Hanefiord and Keplawick, whereto the Danes, English, and Dutch, do commonly resort with their Commodities. The Buildings are for the most part of Timber, roofed with Flags, Turfs, or Skins, and having on the sides of the Roof a Hole to let in the Light. Some Houses they make of Fish bones.  
Besides the conveniency of Fishing and of Trade, they live near the Seaside, because there comes frequently great Flakes of Ice, that float hither from other Countries of the North, and bring them Wood and other Commodities.  
They live much (as in the Golden Age) on that which Nature gives them, without any great help of Art. Only they make Cheese and Butter, and the common Sort cat Bread made of Flower of dried Fish. They use neither Physic nor Physicians, and live perhaps the longer for it. For many of them attain to the Age of 150 years, and more. The Women are handsome; but their Dress differs so little from that of the other Sex, that it is hard to discern the one from the other.  
Some say this Island was discovered by Gasper, a Swede; others, by one Eric, a Norvegian; but when, it is not agreed. Heylin says, it was so far from being known unto the Ancients, that it was hardly known to those of Norway till the Year 874. At which time King Harold I, suppressing those petty Kings that were then in Norway, forced many of them to seek new Dwellings. Of which some arrived here, where they found room enough to plant in, and no great loss (if any) by the change of their Dwelling. Upon their Invitation, they were followed afterwards by many of their Friends and Countrymen, till at last the Fishing Trade drew thither a great many Strangers, especially from Denmark, England, Holland, and the Hanse-Towns.  
Hola in the North, and Scalholt in the South, both Bishops Sees, are the two chief Places of this Island. Bestede is a Castle, where the Governor makes his Residence.  
Those two Episcopal Sees were founded by the persuasion and procurement of Adelbert, Archbishop of Bremen, by whose means the People of this Island were first converted to the Christian Faith, Anno 1070. And to those two Bishops Sees were added, in tract of time, eight Religious Houses. But since this Island was brought under the Crown of Norway, that is in the Year 1260, it followed the Fortunes of it, in all Changes both of Church and State. It was made subject with it to the Kings of Denmark, and reform together with it in Matters of Religion, according to the Confession of Augsburg. Then the Bishops were reform into Superintendents, and the Revenues of Monasteries converted into other Uses, according to the Will and Pleasure of their Lords of Denmark.  
North and West of Iseland lies Groenland, in Terra Polaris Arctica. A vast Tract of Land, at least the Seacoasts thereof. Which being all that is discovered of it hitherto, leaves us in doubt whether it is an Island or Continent. It is called Groenland, or Greenland, from the Greenness of it in Summertime, that is in June, July, and August. During which time, the Inhabitants in the most Northern Parts of it have no Night at all. And yet they scarce feel any heat; which makes them go in Furs and Skins all the year round.  
This Country was first discovered, says Baudrand, by one Eric the Red-haired, a Norvegian, Anno 982. Who having thus made way for his Countrymen, they and the Danes followed him thither. So that this Country (at least the Seacoasts thereof) became Tributary to the Crown of Denmark.  
The most Southern Parts of it were afterwards discovered by Forbisher, Davis, and Baffin. But as yet we have no account of the Inland Parts. So that all I have to say farther of this Unknown Land is, that Whale-fishing has made it more famous than any thing else. To which purpose this Country is much frequented by the two greatest Seafaring Nations in the World, the English and Hollanders.  
New Denmark is a Country that lies in the Northwest Parts of the Northern America; and that was discovered by Munk a Dane, in the Reign of Christiern the Fourth. It's Discovery, Name, and Situation is all that I can hear of.  
In afric, upon the Coast of Guinea, the King of Denmark has a Place called Frederixburg, fortified with a Castle. It lies near Cabo Corso, and S. Georgio della Mina. In Asia likewise the Danes have their Colonies; and, before the late Troubles of Bantam in Java, there they had a Factory.   
FINIS.