THE LOW COUNTRY COMMON WEALth Containing An exact description of the Eight united Provinces, Now Made free Translated out of french ED. GRIMESTON Printed by G. Eld. 1609 TO THE WORTHY Knight Sir Peter Manwood. Sir. AFter the Edition of the netherlands History, I was entreated to peruse and translate this discourse, being a description of the united Provinces, written by john Francis Petit, one of the chief Authors of that History; who (as he himself doth aver) hath made a particular survey of all the Provinces, towns and forts, which are now under the government of the Confederate Estates. And finding it likely to give some contentment to the Reader, and necessary, as well for his better understanding of the History, as for his knowledge of the strength and state of those Provinces, which have maintained so long and difficult a war, against so potent a Monarch: I have spent such hours, as I could well spare, from my more necessary employments (since my coming into France) in the traduction thereof, that it might be printed as an Appendix to the History. The which I cannot recommend to any Gentleman better deserving of me then your self, unto whom I am much bound for many kind favours and respects. Accept it good Sir, though not worthy of your view, yet as a testimony of his love and thankfulness, who will always remain Yours, devoted to do you service. Edward Grimeston. Orleans April 10. stilo novo. 1609. A table containing all the names of Cities, Towns, Castles, Burgs and Villages in these eight united Provinces, with the Towns and Forts out of the said Provinces and yet included in their union: and first of Geldres. The Duchy of Geldres in particular. fol. 1 ARnham. folio. 6 Nymeghen. 9 Ruremond. 13 Venloo. 14 Gelder's. 15 Stralen. 16 Wachtendonck. 17 Erchelens. ibid. Echt. 18 Montfort. ibid. Harderwick. ibid. Elburg. 19 Hattem. ibid. Wageningen. 20 Tyell. ibid. Bommel. 21 Saint Andrew's Fort. 23 Culembourge. 25 Battenbourg. ibid. Buren. 26 The Earldoms of Holland and Westfreesland. fol. 36 DOrdrecht. 46 Harlem. 52 Delf. 60 Leyden. folio▪ 67 Amsterdam. 73 Goude. 78 Enchuysen. 87 Horn. 89 Alckmar. 94 Medenblick. 100 Edam. 101 Munikendamme. 103 Purmerende. ibid. Muden. 105 Naerden. 106 Gorrichom. 107 Worchom. 109 Heusdin. 111 Leerdam. ibid. Henclom. ibid. Aspren. 112 Oudewater. ibid. Rotterdam. 113 Schiedam. 115 Bryell. 117 Schoonhoven. 118 Iselstein. 119 Woerden. ibid. Viane. 120 Gh●ertruydenberg. 121 Hage. 122 Vlaerdinghe. 128 Sevenberghe. ibid. Goere. 129 Beverwick. ibid. Nieuport. 131 Scage. ibid. Nobility of Holland from 136. to 157 Description of the British Fort called L' Huis te Britain. 157 Zealand with the Islands, Towns & Burroughs. 159 WAlachry, or Walchren. 161 Middlebourgh. ibid. Vere or Camp-veer. 165 Fl●singhe. 168 Arnemuyden. 171 Dombourgh. 174 West-cappelle. ibid. Soetlandt. 175 Rammeken. ibid. Schowen. 176 Ziriczee. 177 Browershaven. 178 Zuit-bevelandt. 179 Rommerswall. 180 Goes. 181 Tolen the Island and town. 182 Saint martin's Dike. 183 Noort-bevelandt. ibid. Wolfers-dicke▪ 184 The County of Zutphen in particular. 189 Doesburgh. 192 Doetecum. 193 Bronckhorst. ibid. Lochem. 194 Groll. ibid. Sherenbergh. 196 Bredefort. ibid. Keppel. 197 Bourg. ibid. The Province and Signiory of Vtrecht in particular. 198 VTrecht. 199 Wickter-duyrsteede. 206 Amersfort. 208 Rhenen. 209 Montfort. 210 The state of Vtrecht in general. 211 Freesland in general. 219 LEwarden. 236 Dockum. 242 Franiker. 244 Bolsewaert. 245 Staueren. 247 Harlinghen. 250 Sneck. ibid. Sloten. ibid. Ilst. ibid. Worcum. 252 Hindelopen. ibid. The seven Forests. 253 overissel in general. 254 DEuenter. 259 Campen. 260 Swoll. 263 Steenwick. 265 Hassel. ibid. Oldenzeel. 266 Otmarse. ibid. Enschcede. 267 Vollenhoven. ibid. Geelmuyden. 268 meppel. ibid. Hardenbergh. 269 Coevoorden. ibid. Risen. 270 Diepenhem. ibid. Ghoer. 271 Delden. ibid. Almeloo. ibid. Wilsen. ibid. Graffhorst. 272 Gronninghen and the Ommelandts in general. 273 Damn. 287 Delfziell. ibid. Towns and Forts out of the united Provinces and yet comprised in their union. 289 In the Duchy of Brabant. BErghen upon Soom. 289 Breda. 290 Steenberghen. 293 William-Stadt. ibid. Cluyndert. 294 Lilloo. ibid. Ter-Heyden. 295 Towns and Fortresses that the States hold in Flanders. 296 Sluice. ibid. Ardenbourgh. 298 Ysendike. ibid. Lyefkens-hoeck. 299 Terneuse. 300 Axle. ibid. Fortresses held by the States beyond the Rhine. 301 BOrentang●▪ ibid. Bellinger-wolder-ziell. 302 FINIS. The Belgic Commonweal, Or A particular description of the eight united Provinces of the Netherlands. The Duchy of Gelder's. THere is great contradiction of opinions betwixt both ancient and modern writers touching the first beginning of the Geldrois, the which they can hardly reconcile, neither will I undertake the charge. Marlian saith, that in julius Caesar's time, the country which is now called Gelder's, was inhabited by the Menapiens. Others hold that it was the abode of the Sicambrians, whereunto I will yield, and that under that name the Cleuois were comprehended: through whose country, as well as through Gelder's the river of Rhine doth run: the which doth cast one of his branches betwixt the Duchies of Gelder's and Cleves, being called Wahal, at the division of the Island of Sgraven-weerdt, where that mighty fort was first built by Colonel Martin Schenck, and at this day in great esteem. For which Island there hath been long debate betwixt the Dukes of Gelder's and Cleves, the which is not yet decided, & was begun betwixt the Emperor Charles the fifth, and William duke of Cleves, father to this last Duke. The Battavians or Hollanders did also hold a part of that which is now called Gelder's. There is no doubt but in Caesar's time, the Sicambrians did inhabit on either-side of the Rhine, in the countries of Cleves and Geldres: as Wezel on the one side, with Burich, Cleef and others of the other side are of the Duchy of Cleves: And of Geldres, Nymegen lies of the one side and Arnham on the other, so as we may rightly say that the rivers of Rhine and Wahal do run through these two Provinces: for the Sicambrians having often been defeated by the Romans, Augustus (who succeeded Caesar as Strabo, Suctonius & others do write) to be the better assured of them, and to keep them in awe, transported a good number of them with other people on this side the Rhine, and there planted them. I will not deny that the Menapians did not first inhabit all that country which lies along the river of Rhine, to whom the Sicambrians did afterwards succeed, who enjoyed a great continent of ground, on the one side as far as the Vbiens, and on the other unto the ocean sea. The which Marlian confirms by these words. The Sicambrians planted whereas the two great rivers of Rhine and Meuse do meet and join, extend themselves unto the ocean sea▪ And in another place he saith. The Sicambrians are people wholly Germains▪ inhabiting beyond the river of Rhine near unto the Vbiens and Eburones, which are the people of Cologne & Liege. So as we cannot say that those which at this day are called Geldrois had the name of Sicambrians only, but that under that name were also comprehended, they of Cleves, Monts, Marck & juliers▪ all neighbours to the Rhine, and on the other side a part of the river of Meuse which passing by the country of the Eburones and the modern Geldrois, comes & joins with the river of Wahal (which is a branch of the Rhine) near unto Lovestein, and then retaining the sole name of Meuse, washing the towns of Dordrecht, Rotterdam, Schiedam, Vlaerdingen and the Brill, it falls into the British sea, and so into the great Ocean. The which Sydonius Appolinaris, an excellent Poet in his time doth witness by these verses. Sic Ripa duplicis tumore fracta, Detonsus Vahalim bibat Sycamber. So when the double swelling breaks the brink▪ Wahal shallbe the shorn Sicambrians drink. But no man can directly say when or how these Menapians & Sicambrians were divided in these Provinces thus distinguished, by which distinction they have lost their ancient name. This Province is at this day called Geldres, and the others Cleves, juilliers, Monts, Marck, Liege, yea & Westphalia: the Etymology of which name of Geldres seems ridiculous unto me, as it is set down in the chronicle of Holland: I would rather hold with them which maintain that the whole country hath taken his name of Gelduba, a town in old time seated upon the Rhine, whereof Tacitus makes honourable mention, but at this day there remains no memory thereof: Munster holds it for most certain, that the first Lords of this country (who long after carried no higher title then of Advocates, then of Earls, and in the end of Dukes) were two brethren, issued from the French Wyncard and L●●old du Pont, who built a Castle called Pont-Gelder, which castle hath long retained that name of Pont, and is now joined to the town of Geldre, which hath given the name to the whole Province, having at this day towards the North the country of Friesland, to the Norwest the Zuyderzee: upon the South the river of Meuse joins upon it, and divides it from the Duchy of Brabant: to the Southeast is the Duchy of juilllers. Towards the East is a part of the river of Rhine, and the duchy of Cleves, the which divides it into two very unequal parts: & to the West is Holland and the siegneurie of Vtrecht. This Province is plain and of a goodly situation, having few mountains, but main heaths, & great store of woods, which are both pleasant and profitable: among the which is that of Echterwald. All their soil or ground for tillage is very fertile in corn: and the pasture fat for cattle, especially that which lies upon the banks of the river of Rhine, Wahal, Issel and Meuse. Lewis Guichardin and other writers of our time, confound the Earldom of Zutphen with the Duchy of Geldres, as we will show in the particular description, and not confound it with that of Gelder's. The Duchy of Gelder's and the County of Zutphen, contain the towns of Arnhem, Zutphen, Nymegen, and Ruremond, which are the four chief of the whole country, making the four quarters of these two Provinces, & are situated (as we will show) upon four diverse rivers, and are subject to four several Bishops. Then are the towns of Venlo upon the Meuse: Geldres: Stralen: Wachkendonck and Erkelens in the champain country. Then there is Hatten upon the Issell, Elbruch, and Harderwyck upon the Zuyderzee, Wageningen upon the Rhine, Tyel and Bomel upon the Wahal. There are many towns which in ancient time were walled in, but through diverse accidents and disasters they are now wholly or in part spoiled, & in the●e last wars some have been utterly ruined: yet as touching that little which remains they do still enjoy their ancient privileges of towns, as Keppel, Burch, Ghendt, Batenburch, Montfort & Each with others, whereof we will make mention coming to their quarter, with the which there are above three hundred villages, having steeples & the rights of parishes. The Estates of this Duchy consists upon three chief members of the Barons, whom they call Vry Herens; of the Nobles whom they call Redderschap, and of the four foresaid chief towns▪ which Estates so far as they are fallen from the Princes of Austria, hold their College in the town of Arnham, whereas in like manner the Chancery and the Chamber of accounts remains, as well for the Duchy as the county of Zutphen. Wherefore although it may displease Nymegen, as the last member added to the Duchy of Gelder's, we will begin with Arnham as the chief town, and describe all the other towns in particular, according to their dignities. Arnham. THis town was in old time called Arnacum, it is a good town and somewhat spacious, seated upon the right bank of the river of Rhine: half a league from the which is Fossa Drusiana, which is now called Issel Dort: whereas Drusus (to keep his soldiers from idleness) caused them to begin to dig a channel, which drawing the water out of the Rhine, it fell into a little river called Issell near unto Dousbourg in the county of Zutphen, the which he did build, and called it by his own name, that he might have a shorter passage by water to go and make war against the Frisons: which channel or little river did so increase in a short time, as at this day it is grown very great, & is called Issel, passing before the towns of Dousbourg, Bronchorst, Zutphen, Deventer and Campen, where it falls into the Zuyder sea. This town of Arnham is the chief of the Estate and siegneury of the Veluwe, which is one of the four quarters of the Duchy of Gelder's: under which town are the towns of Hattem, Harderwyck, Elbruch & Wageningen, all walled; with many villages▪ burrows and castles, with their jurisdictions and particular officers, subject to the justice of the Drossart or Lieutenant general of that quarter, compassed in by the Zuyderzee, the Rhine, and the river of Issel, for which cause fish abounds there, and is very good cheap: besides there is great store of woods, underwoods and bushes, full of game for the pleasure of hunting. near unto the said town of Arnham, is an other member of the duchy, called Velwe Zoom, the which extends near unto Zutphin on the one side, and on the other it reacheth near to Wageningen: in all which soil there are nothing but meads, and very pleasant and fertile pastures: which quarter hath a particular officer, which is the judge of Arnham, with four assistants: and as for the Veluwe the Drossart hath ten assistants or councillors whereas he keep his courts of pleas. But touching the spirituality, the town of Arnham with the whole jurisdiction, before the troubles was subject to the Bishopric of Vtrecht. In this town the Dukes of Geldres did in former times make their residence, and there they were entombed in the great Church before the market place, from whence they go unto the Port which leads unto the river of Rhine. The Chancery & the council of Gelder's were established there by the Emperor Charles the fifth in the year 1543. when as he conquered it from William Duke of Cleves, who maintained himself to be true and lawful heir to Charles of Egmont last Duke of Gelder's, which council did serve as well for the Duchy of Gelder's as the County of Zutphen, jointly consisting of a Chancellor and ten councillors, that is, four of the Nobility of the four quarters above mentioned, and six Lawyers or others, the which administer justice with great authority, having an Attorney general, a Register and other Officers, from whose sentence there is no appeal. In which town the Chamber of accounts was also placed by Philip the second King of Spain and Duke of Geldres, succeeding the Emperor Charles his Father in the year 1559. whereas all the Officers of Geldres and Zutphen, as well of justice, as of the treasure, must yield an account of their charges and offices. This town within these thirty years is wonderfully changed, as well in fortifications and Boulwarks, as otherwise: it hath been often threatened and attempted to be surprised by the Spanish faction, but it was fruitless; the which might seem strange, considering the easy access they had, when as they held the towns of Deventer and Zutphen▪ Nymegen. IT is a free town and a fee of the Empire, of ancient foundation: Of the which we read that Magus King of Gaul, the Son of Dis, had been the first founder, who called it Maga, by his own name: And that afterwards Batto King of the Catthes (as we will show more amply in the description of Holland) coming into that quarter, pleasing himself in the situation, and in the remarkable antiquity, caused it to be repaired, and did both amplify and fortify it with new walls, whereupon it was called Noviomagum the which in the country speech, answers to Nyenmegen, unless that in favouring the little town of Megen seated upon the river of Meuse, preferring it in antiquity, we will maintain that Nymegen hath been built since upon the river of Wahal, by the same Magus, or his successor▪ the which I leave doubtful. Hessel Son to Batto favoured this town of Nymeghen, for that he was borne there, and did so enlarge it, as the lower part of the town is called Hessel-marckt unto this day. Among all the singularities and antiquities of this town the castle is yet standing, upon the top of a little hill, and over looks the town, the which some affirm was built and re-edefied by julius Caesar, to discover the Country thereabouts, and to command it; Neither is there any place in all that quarter to be found, which yields so goodly a prospect of the country, rivers, towns and villages, as this Fort doth, the which unto this day they call Des Wallicks Hoff, which is as much to say, as the Gauls Court, the which is a probable argument, that Magus or some other of the Gauls have built it. They have found in this town & about it within few years, memories of the Romans antiquity, as medals and goodly stones of sumptuous buildings and sepulchres, with inscriptions and Epitaphs of some Captains & famous men. There are also many ruins of the romans time along the river of Wahal, where as some think they planted their camp, and placed their garrisons: so as the passage which is near unto the town, is at this day called in the country language Roomsche Vort, which signifieth a Roman Fort. So as they have found great stones in the wall of the chief Port, which they call Hessell-Port, whereas these words are graven; H●c pes Romani Imperii: Here is the foot of the Roman Empire. And on the other side; Hic finis regni Stauriae, Here is the end of the command of Staurius, whereof we will speak hereafter in the description of Friesland. There was also found in St. Stephen's churchyard a great stone, on the which these verses were graven. Anno milleno postquam salus est data saeclo, Centeno juncto quinguageno, quoque quinto, Caesar in orb situs, Fredericus pacis amicus Lapsum, confractum, vetus, in nihil ante redactum Arte, nitore pari reparavit opus Neomagi, julius in primo tamen extitit eius origo Impar pacifico reparateri Frederico. Twelve hundred years (wanting but forty five) After Salvation did appear to men, Frederick (then peaceful Emperor) did revive The Pristine fame of ruin'd Nymegen, julius did build it long before; as then, His first foundations stood; but far unlike To the repairs of peaceful Frederick. This was when as the Emperor Frederick caused the old ruins to be repaired. Under this town are comprehended (as making one quarter of the Duchy of Gelder's) the towns of Bomel and Tyel which are walled in, and Ghendt which lies open, but yet it enjoys the privileges of a town. The jurisdictions are first that of the Bourgrave, that is to say, the Vicont of Nymegen, & of the officers of the said two towns, and of Bomelweerd: then that of the higher and lower Betuwe, and afterwards they that lie betwixt the rivers of Wahal and Meuse. In the year 1248. this town came under the subjection of the Princes of Gelder's by the means which follow. Otto Earl of Gelder's did lend unto William King of the Romans, Earl of Holland, Zeeland, etc. the sum of 21000. marks of pure silver, upon condition, that if within a certain time limited, he did not pay the said sum, he should enjoy the said Town with the jurisdiction as his own proper inheritance. The which the Emperor Rodolphus did continue since, & did augment the conditions for the Earl's advantage. And withal the said money was not satisfied: whether it were through the negligence of the Princes of the Empire, or that they had not means to pay it; whereby the Vicontie and signory of Nymeghen hath remained incorporated upon certain conditions to the Duchy of Gelder's, retaining the jurisdiction, sovereignty and prerogative to coin money, as an Imperial Town. In the year 1589. Colonel Martin Schencke of Nydeck, made an unfortunate enterprise upon the town, who retiring unto his boat being overladen, it sunk and he was drowned: Since the united Estates having built a mighty fort called Knotsenbourg on the other bank of the River of Wahal, opposite unto the Town, the which did hinder their navigation and much annoy them with their Canon, the townsemen did press the Duke of Parma to free them from this Fort, and to besiege it: But Prince Maurice coming thither out of Frieseland, and having defeated some of the Duke's men, he was forced to raze his siege, and to retire with his Army into Brabant, he himself going to the Spa: The Prince seeing him retired, made haste to besiege the said town, which he soon forced to yield unto the united Estates. In the year 1592. under whose obedience it hath ever since continued. Ruermond. IT is a reasonable good town, seated upon the River of Meuze, joining to the mouth of that of Ruoer, For Mondt in the dutch tongue signifies mouth or entrance, and so of that word and of Ruer the name of this town is compounded, as many others are found in the Netherlands of the like definitions, as Dendermond in Flanders, Isselmond in Holland and others: in Latin it is called Ruremunda, five leagues from Maistricht▪ & three from Venloo: A town well peopled, rich & well built, strong both by nature and by art of fortifications of ramparts and bulwarks. It is one of the four chief Towns of Gelder's, chief of one of the quarters, under whose jurisdiction are comprehended the Towns of Venlo, Gelder, Stralen Wachtendonck and Er●kelans, all walled and strong, with three small boroughs, Montfort, Vucht and Nyeustadt, one a league distant from another, which are under the judges and Officers of the said towns, as also they of Kessel, Middeler and Creykenbeeck. Within sixty years this town was appointed to be the Bishop's Sea for the whole Duchy of Gelder's: And there are at this day more Priests and Monks in i● then in any other Town in the Country. They have had their share of troubles in these last wars, but not in so great a measure as many others. A good league from Ruremond is the goodly Village of Kessell, with a strong Castle built upon a Mountain, belonging to a private Lord, from which Village there is a little Angle of the Country, called Landt-van-Kessell, which is of the domains of the Duchy. This place of Kessell was sometimes a town of great importance, the which Ptolomey calleth Castelleum, & makes it the Metropolitaine of the Menapians. This town of Ruremond with the whole jurisdiction, is at this day subject to the Princes of Austria. Venloo. IT is upon the right bank of the river of Meuse, three leagues from Ruremond and half a league from Stralen, it is a good and a strong Town, the people are martial and given to Arms, and hath in former times resisted an Imperial Army. And although it hath often had garrisons of Wallons, Germans, Spaniards and italians, yet they have always found means to free themselves by some device, and to set the garrison at division one against an other, the Citizens fortifying one of the parties, and chase away the other; then finding them strong enough for that which remained and which had favoured them, they expelled them also; as it happened in the year 1578. to the Signior of Esstournelles, and in the year, 1591. to Otto Bentinck their Governor: remaining notwithstanding always faithful to the Princes of Austria, to whom they knew well how to excuse themselves. In the year 1601. Prince Maurice made a gallant enterprise upon the said Town; but being ill seconded, the Burghers having taken arms and recovered their Ports, it succeeded not; so as he was forced to retire, with the loss of two of his Captains. In this Town William Duke of Cleves, having lost all his Duchy and a good part of juilliers and Cleves, came in the year 1543. and submitted himself to the mercy of the Emperor Charles the fifth, where he was received into grace, renouncing the league which he had with the French and marrying the daughter of Ferdinand King of the romans the Emperor's brother, & absolutely renounced all his interest to the Duchy of Gelder's, as we have showed more amply in another place. Gelder. THe Town of Gelder is (as we have said▪) that which hath given the name to the whole Ducthy, being within two small leagues of Stralen it hath a Castle which was wont to be without the town▪ but now it is comprehended within the fortification. This was wont to be the Court of the Lords of Pont, advocates, and afterwards Earls of Gelder's: it is divided into two habitations, separated by a water, upon the which there is a bridge, which gives access from one to the other, seated in a country somewhat Moorish, and not very accessible to plant the Canon. This town in the beginning of the last troubles, was under the obedience of the united estates. But the Earl of Leicester Lieutenant to the Queen of England, Protectress of the union, having placed Colonel patton a Scottishman for Governor there, he sold it for thirty thousand crowns in ready money to the duke of Parma, in the King of Spain's name, retaining to himself the horses and movables of Colonel Schenck, and the ransoms of some of the richest and best Citizens. And so this town returned under the power of the Princes of Austria, as it is yet at this day. Stralen. THis town is but a league and a half from Wachtendonck, a small town, but sufficiently fortified for the importance thereof, being too near to Venlo, in the which the Princes of Austria entertain an ordinary garrison under some Governor or Captain whom they place there. Wachtendonch. IS also a small Town with a Castle belonging to a private Lord: the which in the year 1588. holding the party of the united Estates, the duke of Parma after that he had failed at the siege of Berghen up Zoom, sent Cont Charles of Mansfeldt to besiege it, where in the end he forced them to yield. In the year 1600. Cont Lodowick of Nassau surprised it for the united Estates. After which the garrison of Gelder's, Stralen and others thereabouts surprised it again, but not able to take the Castle, they were forced to abandon it: So as in the year 1605. the Marquis Spinola went and besieged it, who received it by composition for the archdukes of Austria. Erchelens'. SOme will say that this town hath taken his name of Hercules Allemanicus: It is situated upon the frontiers of the Duchy of juilliers four leagues from Ruremond, it is a reasonable good town, obedient with the like garrison unto the Princes of Austria. But let us now come unto the towns which are seated as well upon Zuyderzee, as upon the rivers of Rhyne, Wahal, Meuze and Issell. First, Echt IT is a league from the Meuze, and as far from Montfort, on the side of that goodly Wood which they call Echterwout. Montfort. IT is a Castle of importance, the which was in ancient time a small town: it lies a league from Ruermond. Harderwick. IT is a an indifferent good town lying upon the Zuyderzee: yet the haven is bad, so as the ships are forced to lie in the Road: Notwithstanding Charles Duke of Gelder's, sending five ships well manned with soldiers out of that town, thought to surprise the Town of Horn in Westfreezeland, whereof he failed. In the year 1503. this town was by chance set on fire, the which was so violent, as in less than three hours it was all consumed to ashes, except five or six houses, with the loss of all their goods, and the death of many persons which were surprised by the fire, or smothered under the ruins of the houses and walls the which was a fearful and pitiful sight. Since it hath been in a short time new built, and made more beautiful and stronger than before. There are some rich and civil people in it: The Magistrate entertains a good School there: It hath not much tasted of the miseries of these last wars: sometime it hath maintained a small garrison of horse and foot, without any great charge unto them. Elburgh. IT lies upon the Zuyderzee like unto Harderwick, from the which it is distant two good leagues, and as much from the Town of Campen in Oueryssell It is a little town of small traffic, but yet good cheap to live in, and hath during these wars followed the same party that Harderwick. did Hattem. WAs in ancient time a good town, though none of the greatest, seated upon the left bank of the river of Yssell. There is a goodly strong Castle, which hath tasted of the miseries of these last wars, for the Drossart or Lieutenant of the Country thinking to deliver it into the Spaniards hands, being discovered, they thought to make it good in this Castle, whereas the Estates besieged them, and the Castle was so battered and torn with the canon (whereof the marks are yet to be seen) as they were forced and carried prisoners to Arnham whereas they lost their heads. Wagheninghen. IS a small ancient strong town, and is the very same which Cornelius Tacitus called Vada, as to speak the truth it ma● properly be so called, being in a manner compassed in of all sides with moors and bogs, which makes it in-accessible on those parts, it lies not far from the river of Rhyne, being of an equal distance from the towns of Arnham and Nymeghen, and four leagues from Culenbourg. Tyel. THis Town is the chief place of the jurisdiction or Bayliwick which they call Tyelerweerd, the which was wont to be a Peninsula: But since these last wars Derick-vick Signior of Soulen Bailiff of the town and jurisdiction, hath caused a channel to be cut through the Country to sail from the river of Meuze into the Wahal upon the right bank whereof the said town is built ● by which means the said Tyelweerd is now made an Island, for that there is no entrance into it but by water, or through the town: It is strong by nature and by art, through the diligence of the said Amptman or Bailyffe, who since the last troubles hath made sharp wars against the Spaniards, by the means of that garrison: In the year 1528. holding the party of Charles Duke of Gelder's their Prince, the Burguignons besieged it in the Emperor's name, but it was so well defended, as they were forced to raise their siege, to the great honour of the Inhabitants, and the few soldiers that were within it. Bommel. IT is a fair strong place, the chief town of all the Territory of Bommell-weerd, which the Rhine and Meuze do compass in, making it an Island, the which they say was called by Caesar, Insula Batavorum (if it extend no farther) the which we may say is now the higher and lower Betuwe, on the other bank of the river of Ryne, as far as Tyel, and beyond to Haerwerden, where at this present is the mighty fort of Saint Andrew (whereof we will presently make mention) whereas the Wahal and the Meuze kissing as the pass, join together at Lovestein at the end of the said Bomels-weerd in one body, the which soon after from Gorrichom takes the name of Meruve, until that having past Dordrecht, it resumes his name of Meuze, and beneath Bryell runs into the British Seas. In this Island there are many fair Villages and Castles, among others Rossem, whereas Martin van Rossem Seign ior of Puydroyen was borne; a famous Captain in his time, having been marshal of the field to the Duke Charles of Gelder's and William of Cleves, who in the year of our Lord, 1534. did terrify the Town of Antwerp, and thinking to do the like to them of Lovuain was forced to retire. In the year of our Lord 1598. Archduke Albert of Austria being gone into Spain to fetch his spouse, the Infanta Isabella, daughter to King Philip the second, and sister to King Philip the third now reigning; left (during his absence) Cardinal Andrew of Austria to govern the Netherlands, which were given in marriage to the said Isabella, and Don Francisco de Mendoza Admiral of Arragon, for general of his army: the which he sent unto the frontiers of Germany to make war against the united Estates that way, where having done what he listed, and taken from the Estates by siege the towns of Rhynberch and Deutecom, and then the Fort of Crevecaeur, he passed to the said Island of Bommell, with an intent to besiege the town, the which by reason of their works at the fortification lay half open. The which Prince Maurice understanding, he posted thither with all speed, and assured it with his presence and forces, causing a trench to be cast without the town, from one side of the river unto the other, whereas he lodged the greatest part of his Army, whereupon the Admiral seeing there was no way to force them, he retired farther into the Island busying himself about the building of Saint Andrew's Fort, so as the town of Bommel was freed. In this town was borne that learned man Elbert Leoninus, Doctor of the Laws▪ who died in the year 1601. being Chancellor of Gelder's and deputy for the general Estates of the united Provinces, being above 80. years old: he was sometimes Tutor to the Prince of Orange which now liveth. S. Andrew. THis Fort was so named by Andrew of Austria Cardinal of Constance, being Governor of the Netherlands (as we have said) in the absence of the Archduke Albert. It is the mightiest fort that hath been made in all the Netherlands, for the building whereof the Admiral of Arragon disfurnished the whole Island of trees: It is comprehended in five Bulwarks, after the form of the Citadel of Antwerp, whereof three are upon the banks of Meuze and Wahal, and the two others towards Haerwerden, either of them having a cavalier or platform to defend it, with broad and deep ditches, without the which is a counterscarp, the which hath also a ditch round about it▪ and small forts to warrant it, especially whereas these two rivers embrace one an other, towards Tyler-weerd, whereas the Fort of Nassau is set opposite to that of Saint Andrew, in a corner, which is also made an Island by art, being called Voorne, and is held by the Estates: which two Forts did daily salute one an other with their Ordinance. The Admiral having finished this Fort thinking thereby to keep the rivers of Wahal and Meuse and the whole Island in subjection, left a garrison of 1500. men in it, with store of artillery and munition, and then retired with his army to refresh it in Brabant. But Prince Maurice did not dissolve his army, but kept it together all the winter, as well in the town of Bommel, as in the trenches and ships which he had lying by: The spring time being come, having recovered the Fort of Crevecaeur, he went to besiege that of Saint Andrew, the which through want of victuals, was yielded unto him, with all the artillery and munition, the soldiers being about 1100. and some 400. out of Crevecaeur remained in the Prince's service, who afterwards at the battle of Nieuport showed themselves both valiant and faithful. And so this Fort of Saint Andrew hath unto this day remained under the obedience of the united Estates. Culembourg. ALthough this town be a fee of Gueldres, yet there is a question made whether it be of that territory. It is scituaed upon the left bank of the river of Lecke, a league from Buren, & two leagues from Vianen, on the same side of the river. It hath a goodly castle, whereas the Lord doth ordinarily reside, and a large jurisdiction, whereupon King Philippe the second erected it to an Earldom, whereof Florent of Palant was the first Earl, besides many other great possessions which he enjoyed, whereof his son is now Lord and Earl. Battenbourg. ALthough this town (at this present ruined) and the castle, be within the limits of the Duchy of Geldres, seated upon the bank of the river of Meuse, whereby the Baron of that place makes a great revenue of the toll and custom which is paid by all the ships that pass that way: yet the said signory is merely held of the Empire, as William of Bronchurst did take it up of Maximilliam the Emperor: His Son succeeded him, and dying without heirs, Maxmilian of Bronckhurst his cousin German did inherit, and is now Lord of it. This place is of very great antiquity. The Chronicles of Holland affirm, that it was the first Castle which Prince Battus (of whom Batavia or Holland took his name) did build upon the Meuze in the County of Sicambrians, which now is Gelder's. Buren. THis Town is neither a fee, nor of the territory of Gelder's, but a little country of itself, which holds of the Empire, carrying the title of an Earl with great jurisdiction, a large territory and many Villages, and yet shut up in the limits of the Duchy of Gelder's. This place is seated near unto the river of Lingen, upon a little Brook which in old time was called the ditch for muscles, a league from Tyl; it is not very big, but hath a very strong Castle joining unto it, where there is an ordinary garrison for the united Estates. That valiant and famous Prince Maximilian of Egmont was Earl of this place, who for his great services done unto the Emperor Charles the fifth, (whereof divers histories make mention) left his memory immortail to posterity: Dying at Brussels in the year one thousand four hundred & nine, to whom succeeded his only daughter the sole heir by her mother of the house of Lannoy: Who was the first wife of William of Nassau Prince of Orange, by whom she left a son and a daughter, that is Philip William of Nassau now Prince of Orange, Earl of Buren, Signior of Lannoy etc. And the Lady Mary of Nassau widow to Cont Philip of Hohenlo. This may suffice for the description of the Towns and chief Forts comprehended in the Estate of the Duchy of Gelder's. The people of this Province are valiant and warlike, from whence they were wont to draw a good part of them at Arms and Archers of the bands of Ordinance of the Low-countries. These were the last among the Belgic Gauls that submitted themselves to the yoke of the Roman Empire, & the first when this Monarchy began to decline, that freed themselves from their subjection. Afterwards they were made subject to the French: yet embracing the occasion when it it was offered, they did shake of this yoke, and began to be governed by private Lords of the country itself: the which happened in the time of the Emperor Chalres the bald King of France: Which Lords were simply called Tutors or Advocates of the country: The which according o their virtues and merits were chosen & created by the people, the first of which was Wrinchard (as we have showed before) to whom succeeded his son Gerlach in the year 910. so as there were seven Lords or Feofes successively issued from this family, the last whereof was also called Winchard, who left but one daughter called Aleyd or Alix, married to Otto Earl of Nassau: who was the first which carried the title of the Earl of Gelder's given him by the Emperor Henry the third, in the year 1079. But the said Aleyd being dead he married with the daughter of Gerlach Earl of Zutphen, who was slain in a battle given betwixt Conrard Bishop of Vtrecht and Thiery the sixth Earl of Holland. Whereupon (as we have said) the Earldom of Zutphen was also united unto the Duchy of Gelder's. Otto left these Earls after him, Gerrard, Henry, Gerrard & Otto the second, surnamed the stump-foot. It was he which did purchase the signory of Nymeghen, as we have said before, which he did wall in with divers others, which were but Burroughs, as Ruremond, Arnhem, Harderwicke, Bommel and Wageninghen all in the Province of Gelder's, and above it Goch in the country of Cleves: to the which he gave goodly privileges, as to great Cities. To this Otto succeeded his son Renald, and to him a son of his own name, who obtained in the year 1329. the dignity and title of Duke of the Emperor Lewis of Bavaria in an imperial Diet held at Francfort: As in like manner the County of juilliers was by him erected into a Duchy. After this Reginold the second; Geldres was governed by Arnold & Edward his two sons, but not without great contentions. Both of them dying, Arnold left two daughters of divers beds, joan and Isabella, who continued the division which had been betwixt their Father and Uncle: but Isabella dying without children, joan remained sole and peaceable Duchess, to whom succeeded William her son, who was the fourth duke of Geldres, but dying without heirs, Reynold his brother the fourth Duke of juilliers succeeded him, and was the fifth Duke of Geldres, who dying without issue male, the succession went to his only daughter, married to Arnold of Egmond, issued from a daughter of the first Duke of Geldres, by which means the said Arnold came unto the principality, whose Son called Adolphe, (who is numbered for the seventh Duke) repining that his Father lived so long, by the persuasion of his own Mother, caused him to be seized on in a night, and to be put in prison in the castle of Buren, where he detained him many years. Pope Paul the second and the Emperor Frederick the third, not able to suffer so great an impiety, gave authority to Charles the Warlike, Duke of Bourgongne to free this miserable Father by force of arms out of the hands and tyranny of his son: The which Adolph understanding, and seeing that the Pope and Emperor did embrace the cause, and that he was not able to resist Duke Charles his forces, he drew his father out of prison, and having obtained a passport from the Duke, he came unto him with his father to dourlan's in Picardy: before whom the father casting his glove, defied the son: But the Duke who loved this Adolph, laboured to persuade the father to resign the Duchy unto his Son, and that being now very old, he should retire to Grave, and content himself with that piece and three thousand florins rend, whereupon Adolph like an unnatural and barbarous son hearing this proposition made by Duke Charles of Bourgongne, answered, that he had rather cast his father headlong into a well, and himself after, then accept of that composition. That it was reason, seeing his father had governed, forty four years, that he should also come in his rank to the Principality, and enjoy it as his father had done. Adding that he was well content his father should have 3000 florins yearly for his entertainment, but he must depart out of the country and siegneury of Gelder's, and never enter more into it: Duke Charles hearing these speeches and noting the cruelty of a son towards his father, seemed so much incensed thereat, as Adolph fearing his fury, fled in a disguised habit, thinking to save himself in Gelder's; but being known, near unto Namur he was taken and put in prison at Villevord, & from thence carried to Courtray, where he remained till after the death of Duke Charles. In the mean time the father to be revenged of his son, sought to disinherit him; resigning his Duthcy of Gelder's & County of Zutphen unto Duke Charles upon certain conditions. By which resignation the Princes of the house of Austria have so much pretended unto the said Duchy, as in the end after the death of the last Duke Charles of Egmont, they have enjoyed it, although by right it should descend to William Duke of Cleves, whom the Emperor forced to yield it unto him. And to return to Adolph he was freed from his prison at Courtray by the Ganthois, who made him their General against the French king Lewis the 11. where this ungrateful son was slain before Tournay, receiving the fruits of his desert, having been so cruel to his father. Duke Arnould dying afterwards at Grave, he instituted (upon caution) the said duke of Bourgongne to be his heir, disinheriting his son Adolph of the succession, as contumax, ingrate & rebellious: But the Geldrois refusing to accept of Duke arnold's disposition & testament, the duke of Bourgongne went with a mighty army and by force took possession of the country, receiving their oaths of fealty & homage, whereunto he forced the towns & the Nobility of Gelder's, And the better to assure this new Estate he purchased from Gerard Duke of juilliers and his children, all the interest they had or might hereafter pretend unto the Duchy of Gelder's. This done he sent Charles and Philip the sons of Adolph whom he had by a Princess of the house of Bourbon, to be bred up in Flanders; and by that means the Duke of Bourgongne remained in quiet possession of the Estate of Gelder's, and dying left the succession to his only daughter and heir, who was married to the Emperor Maxmilian, but the Geldrois refusing to obey him, he raised a mighty Army, and came to Boisleduc, wherewith the Estates of Gelder's being terrified, they acknowledged him for their Prince in the right of his wife, and did swear obedience unto him. And so Maxmilian got the quiet possession without any effusion of blood, the which he enjoyed until that Charles the son of Adolph (who had been taken prisoner with the Earl of Nassau in an encounter near unto Bethune by the French, and afterwards by reason of his Alliance by the mother's side, set at liberty) with the help of the French King and his Kinsmen and friends, returned into Gelder's with a small Army, where without any resistance or difficulty, he was received by the people, as their lawful Prince, and numbered for the eight Duke of Gelder's. This Duke Charles of Egmont was in his time a valiant and warlike Prince: making war against all his neighbours, especially against Albert duke of Saxony feudatary of Freezland & of Groaning: Governor of a part of the Netherlands for the Emperor Maxmilian, and the Archduke Philip his son, who married the Lady joan of Castille, and was afterwards Queen of Spain, after the death of the King Don Ferdinand of Arragon and of Queen Issabelle of Castille, her father and mother: whereby the Realms of Spain came unto the house of Austria, and have continued unto this day. The said Duke had also great war against the Lieutenant of the Emperor Charles the fifth, son and successor to the said Archduke Philip: so as in the end there was a peace made betwixt them at Gorcum in the year 1528. and afterwards in the year 1536. there was an other general peace made in the Town of Grave: The conditions whereof were in substance that Duke Charles of Egmont should hold the Duchy of Gelder's and the County of Zutphen in fee of the Emperor or Duke of Brabant, and Earl of Holland, for him and his lawful heirs: But if he died without issue, his Estates and Seigneuries should accrue unto the Emperor and his heirs. This duke died without children in the year 1538. And so according to the said Accord and transaction, and the rights which his great grandfather the Duke of Bourgogne had gotten, these countries should descend unto the said Emperor: But john Duke of juilliers pretending an interest by reason of their ancient rights, (renounced and sold as we have said by his Ancestors) was not received by the Estates, so that after the death of Duke Charles of Egmont the Cleuois had laboured to draw some by love and others by force under the subjection of the King, and to make them his vassals, whereupon they took arms against him. And worshipping the sun rising more than the sun setting, neglecting the old Duke, they did chose and receive his son William, who was made sure to the daughter of the Duke of Albret and heir to the Crown of Navarre: which election was confirmed and better established in the year of our Lord 1539. by the death of the said Duke john: at which time neither the Emperor's title nor authority could prevail any thing to make him to be acknowledged Lord of this Province. But this was not all, for the Emperor being in Spain, his countries were suddenly invaded by the French King and this Duke William: Whereupon the Emperor being returned from his last unfortunate voyage of Africa, he went into the Netherlands with a mighty army, and suddenly subdued in a a manner all the towns of the Duchy of Cleves and juilliers, and among others those of Duren & Sittant. Wherewith Duke William being amazed, and fearing this mighty enemy, by the persuasion of the Princes of Germany, his Allies, he went and humbled himself unto the Emperor in the town of Venlo, to whom he was reconciled, yielding absolutely unto him the said Duchy of Gelder's and Earldom of Zutphen, renouncing also the league which he had with the French King and his pretended marriage with joan of Albret Princess of Navarre, and marrying with the daughter of Ferdinand King of Romans, the Emperor's Brother. In consideration whereof all his other Countries which the Emperor's men had taken from him were restored again. To which Accord the Estates of Gelder's did willingly consent, upon certain e conditions contained in their patent. And so Gelder's and Zutphen returned again to the house of Austria under the Emperor Charles the fifth in the year 1543. and in the year 1549. there was received for Prince and homage done unto Philip of Austria Prince of Spain, the only son unto the Emperor, as future and lawful Lord of the said Duchy & Earldom: who gave the governmennt thereof unto Charles of Brunen Earl of Meghen. Until that in these last wars the said Provinces having entered into the general union of the Netherlands▪ by the pacification of Gandt they have (notwithstanding the disunion of them of Arthois, Henau●t and others) continued always constant in the said union, and so remain at this present, having tasted the bitter fruits of the said wars, as the history of the Netherlands makes mention. The Earldom of Holland and of West-Friesland. BEfore I undertake to describe Batavia (which is now called Holland) in old time the mother of good horsemen, and the mistress of martial discipline, not tributary, but companions and allies to the people of Rome, I think it fit in the relating the original of the nation to make a repetition of that which hath been collected of their antiquity by ancient records, & redeeming them from forgettfulnesse to restore them to their ancient glory and honour. To which effect as I hold it very absurd to abuse the reader with fables and lies, so will I not altogether reject that which hath been delivered by our Ancestors. I know that the curious reader affects new things more than ancient, the memory whereof is almost extinct: but I will entreat them to give me leave to remember the honour which the Batavians have purchased by arms, registered by all ancient writers, whereof we will presently make mention. First of all it is well known that the Batavians are originally descended from the Cats a people of Germany, who driven from their native soil by intestine dissensions, having past the Rhine sought a new habitation, and seizing upon the borders of Belgia which were inhabited, they planted themselves in the Island which the Rhine doth environ. The which Tacitus a Knight and a faithful Roman writer doth witness in his book which he hath written of the manners of the Germans. Omnium (saith he) harum gentium virtute precipui Batavi, non multum ex●ripa, sed insulam Rheni amnis incolunt, Cattorun quondam populus, et seditione domestica in eas sedes transgressus, in quibus pars Romani Imperii fuerunt: manet honos & antiquae societatis ensign etc. That is to say: of all the nations (meaning the Germans) the Batavian are the most valiant not far from the banks, but inhabiting of the Island of the river of Rhyne. In ancient time a people of the Cats, and by their civil dissensions transported into these parts to make a portion of the Roman Empire, they yet enjoy the honour thereof. Batavi donec trans Rhenum agebant pars Cattorum, seditione domestica pulsi extrema Gallicae orae vacua cultoribus simulque insulam inter vada sitam occupavere: quam mare Oceanum a front, Rhenus amnis tergum ac latera circumluit. The Batavians whilst they remained beyond the Rhine were a part of the Cats, chased away by Civil dissensions, planted themselves upon the extremities of the Gaulish frontiers In an Island lying among the marshes having the Ocean Sea in Front, and the River of Rhyne behind and on either side. By these words we are taught that the Battavians must fetch their first beginning from the Catthes; but it is questionable in what part of Germany the Catthes did dwell; for john Stella who hath written the Philippi peregrination, saith, that they did reside at Heidelberg, Heilbrunen and the Othonian forest. Schonerus the Mathematician makes them Saxons: Marlianus sends them to the forest of Hongary, Irenicus will have then Turingians, all which opinions are full of obscure errors. But Stella flying a higher pitch like unto Icarus, one error drawing on an other, makes the Visipiens to be neighbours unto the Catthes, assigning those of Fancford and Conflens, even unto the river of Moselle whereas it falls into the Rhine. He affirms moreover that the Teucteres neighbours to the Catthes now called a part of Hessen, remaining along the rivers of Lave and Lip. For my part I hold them to be of Hesse, with the which many learned writers do concur, for Tacitus doth make them to be neighbours to the Cherusques (which are the people of Lunebourg) and to the Hermodures, which were they of Misnia, beginning their jurisdictions from the forest Hircinia: whereof the river Sala is a good witness for the enjoying whereof the Catthes were in continual quarrel against the Hermodures, which dividing the Bishopric of Naumburg and Merspurg falls into the river of Elbe limiting in old time the Signieury of the Cats. The river of Eder is also a witness running through the country of the Cats, which (as the same author doth report) the young men of the Cats did swim through when as Caesar Germanicus did charge them suddenly. This river falls into that of Fulda, upon whose bank Battenburg is seated, from whence we may conjecture that our Batto, or at the least they of the house of Battenburg are issued. The which also they of Catsenellebogen do testify, having a Castle upon the banks of theriver of Rhine of that name, showing the antiquity of the name of the cats Meliboces: In the country of Hessen, we have also for relics of this nation two villages of the Cats, the one upon the sea, called Catwyck up Zee, and the other near unto the village of Rinsburg called Catwycke upon the Rhine, both of them of the jurisdiction of Holland; and Cats a town of Zeeland, which some seventy years past was drowned, And since, with Cortgeen and the isle of Northbeveland (an Island of Zeeland) within this ten years recovered from the sea. There are some that affirm that the cause why the Cats removed from the place of their birth was, for that they lost a battle against the Hermodures, being in continual quarrel for their salt, which (as we have said before) was made of the water of the river of Sala, whereby the Hermodures became more puissant; but I hold it a detraction from the Batavian honour for that they by the assistance of the Romans having obtained a great victory, constrained the Cats to change their place, and to come to inhabit this Island of the Rhine. For which cause the Cats may with great reason be said to be the beginning andfirst Fathers of the Batavians, or Hollanders. A people renowned for their skill in war, Cornelius Tacitus attributing much to their industry and dexterity in the disposing of an army, and also in obeying their Commanders, to take or put of the combat as it should be thought fit; of great courage, firm and hard bodies, well limbed, of a fierce and menacing aspect, fearful for the horrible length of their beards and hair, which fashion and countenance he saith was not lawful for them to leave off, or change although they had brought victory from their enemies. Some say that Batto issued from the royal blood of the Cats, was moved to change his natural abode to a new one, not for the desire he had to find a better or more fertile country, or in regard of too great a multitude of people (which are the two main occasions that nations remove their ancient habitations) but that his stepmother laid divers ambushes for him, and fearing to be poisoned (being at odds with her) his father consenting thereto, or at least not opposing it: By reason whereof, what with the splendour of his heroical virtues, his gracious and amiable carriage, and his condition truly royal, he drew unto him a good part of the Nobility, and a great number of the people, who being out of hope of better times followed him willingly; and by the council of the King of Tongres (his good father) he addressed himself to the confines of Belgiae there to inhabit: and having past the Rhine, not far from the rivers of Wahal and of Meuze, he happily built the Castle of Battengbourgh upon the river of Meuze, which having passed at the parting of the Rhine, where the Wahal retires and takes his course apart, he enjoyed all the whole circuit, even to the Ocean Sea, parting the land amongst the Nobles and common people so that of his name it was called Battavia, which signifies nothing else but the heritage of Batto, as if one should say Batous Have, for Have in the old Dutch, and yet at this present signifies heritage: So that then this Province hath taken his name and that lawfully, from a Prince, the son of a King: all which is witnessed by divers authors, amongst whom the most worthy of belief is Cornelius Tacitus, a Roman Knight, a rare writer of the Story of Augustus, and Commissary for Gaul Belgic, who makes mention of Claudius Civilis descended from Batto, issued from a royal branch of the Batavians or Hollanders. Here you may see that Plyny, not without great reason, called this Isle the most noble Isle of Batto: The which name of Batto hath heretofore spread itself very far amongst the alleman's and Dalmatians, and Dion a Roman Historiographer makes mention of two Battoes; the first Batto duke of Bruces (which is a part of Pannonia, which I now hold to be the country of Prussia confining Poland & Hungary:) the other Batto Desidiate, who stirred up the Dalmatians (being too much exacted upon by impositions) to take arms against the Romans, to whom he gave many affronts. The same Dion reports in his 55. & 56. book a memorable answer that the said Battus gave Tiberius Caesar, who demanding of him why he had stirred up the people to so long and bloody a war? Answered that the Romans themselves were cause, in that they had sent them wolves for their guardians, not dogs & shepherds. But as it commonly happens amongst these barbarous nations, through the weakness or ignorance of the men of those times, we have nothing left us whereby we may know who were the kinsmen or successors to this Batto of Holland; so that we know not any thing for certain of their customs or manner of living, but that Tacitus hath touched at them, as if it were in passing by, and that briefly. Some say that this Batto re-edefied the Castle of Nymeghen, and compassed the town with walls, & that he being dead his son Hesus augmented it by adding thereto that quarter which is called Heselbergh, or the hill of Hesus. The which town the Kings that succeeded after him caused to be the metropolitaine of Batavia or Holland, and their siege royal. All which Gerard of Nymeghen recites, affirming that he had drawn them from the commentaries of Princes. Strabo the Geographer makes mention of one Peremire king of the Batavians, who had a daughter called Rhamis, married to the son of Siquier Duke of the Cherusques, who afterwards was led in triumph to Rome by Germanicus Caesar. I have not known any man that hath writ how great the limits were, or how far the inheritance of Batto extended; some have made it too little, in taking away a great part from it; wherefore I will assign him his confines to a hair (as it were) to remain firm and stable for ever. Batavia then which I call the ancient, took heretofore his beginning from the separation of the Rhine at the castle of Lober, & was enclosed on one side with that which we properly call the Rhine, (which had wont to fall near unto Catwick into the British Ocean, which gulf is now choked up, as we will show hereafter) and the Wahal, from whence falling again into the Merwe, and from thence into that which we call the Meuze, passing by Bryel renders him▪ self into the same Sea: In which compass and circuit of the Rhine there are a great number of Towns, and to begin above, first, Huessen, Tyell, Buiren, Wickterduirsted, Vtrecht, Viane▪ Culembourg, Aspeney, Hen●l●●▪ Leerdan, Iselsteyne, Montfort, Woerden Oudewater, Gorcum, Wandrichom, Schoonhoven, Dordrecht, Goud, Leyden, Delft, Rotterdam, Schiedan and the Bryell. I will not meddle with Nieuport right over against Schoonhoven and Haesrecht; for that by their ruins other towns have been augmented. If any oppose to the designments of the limits, saying that the Betuwe (which is a part of the Duchy of Gelderland) is that which properly ought to be called Batavia: I will send him to the judge and principal defender of the cause, Ptolomeus of Alexandria, who puts Lugodunum (which is Leyden) amongst the Batautans, where he says expressly 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Lugodunum Battavorum, which is a Town distant four thousand paces from thence. What will this controller say of Caesar's measuring of it, who reckons it to be fourscore thousand paces after it parts from the Rhine before it enters into the Sea; between which two rivers he cannot deny but that the Batavian Isle is enclosed: Tacitus himself ends it at the Meuze, from whence it descends to the Sea. This inheritance of Battus which I willingly call the old Batavia, for that certain hundreds of years after his death Drusus, of two branches or gulfs made three, the 3. falling into the middle sea commonly called Zuyderzee first passing by Campen in the country of overissel, amplifying thereby the territory of Batavia: the which he did to excercise his army to prevent idleness in them; beginning at Iseloort, which branch is called the river of Isell; it seems also that he gave them an other Isle of the Rhine more large and spacious which we may call a new Batavia. To express this name, all that is comprised between the gulfs of the Fly▪ the old Rheyne and the Meuze, render themselves into the British sea, the firmness of this middle gulf of the Rheyne being the cause hat all this land holds together. The which (by reason of the continual ditches or downs made to resist the rage of the Sea) separates Batavia from Freezland. Pomponius Mela the Geographer calls it a great Lake, which is not so until the flowing of the Ocean come into the Zuyderzee, and so to Amsterdam and Sparendam, and from thence by Scluses to Harlem: All which agrees very well with Tacitus, who says it is but a short passage from one side to the other, & yet it is so large from Encuysen to Harlinghen, that with a fair season and a good wind it will ask some four hours passage. To conclude who will know the manners, fashion of living and military virtue of the ancient Batavians or Hollanders, let him read for the ancient, particularly Cornelius Tacitus, and for the modern Hadrianus junius a Physician of the town of Horn, in his Batavia: wherein I doubt not but he shall find much to content him. Concerning their virtue and military discipline, I dare affirm that the Hollanders at this day, do not only equal their predecessors but far exceed them (both by Land, and Sea, wherein their Ancestors had no experience) as it hath well appeared for these forty years against all the attempts of that puissant Monarch of Spain. Dordrecht. THis town is the first in order of 28. in the County of Holland, & hath the first voice in the assembly of the Estates for that County. It is seated upon the Merwe, but so as this river is composed of the Rhine, the Wahall, the Meuze and Ling, which all being joined in one, pass before the town, so as we may say it is seated upon 4. rivers, the Merwe, Wahal, Meuz & Ling. And so they▪ represented the portrait of it by these two latin verses at the happy entrance of king Philip the 2. into their town in the year of our Lord 1549. Me Mosa, et Wahalis, cum Linga, Meruaque cingunt Aeternam Batavae virginis ecce fidem. Girt with the Meuse, Wahal, the Merwe & Ling See Holland's virgin faith un-altering. THere are great diversities of opinions about the etymology of the name of it, some there are that would have it called Durdrecht and not Dordrecht, saying that this word Drecht was heretofore as much as to say a Fair or a free market, called in latin Forum: Of the which name there are divers towns after the names of great personages, as Forum Varronis not far from Milan; Forum Cornelii in Emilia, which is now called Imola. Forum Claudii now called Tarentaise, Forum julii, Forum Livii and others, and so by that reason Durarecht should have its name from some certain man called Duret; yet the Annals of Holland make but small mention of any such. The same may be said of Haesstrecht three thousand paces from Tergoude, heretofore a town that had three Castles, and two Monasteries, now a Village in the midst of the Earldom of Blois, between the towns of Schoonhoven and Goude, which three towns were the proprietary inheritance of the Earls of Blois, as you may more amply read in the general history of the Netherlands. The same may likewise be said of Moore-drecht, Papendrecht, Suyndrecht, Barendrecht, and Slydrecht all Villages of Holland not far from Dordrecht, which is also witnessed by the old seal of the said town; the circumscription is Sigillum oppidanorum in Durdrecht: The seal of the townsmen of Durdrecht. It is also found in records, & amongst others in the Bull of the Emperor Henry the fourth, Thure-Drecht. Be as it may be in regard of the ancientness of the use and that it lasts to this day, we will give it no other name but Dordrecht. This Town is long in form of a compass rich and well peopled, and indeed a very storehouse of all things necessary for man's life: being since the year of our Lord, 1421. become an Island: the Wahal the Meuze, and the Sea, by the breach of a ditch filleth all the gulf (which before was firm land and joining to the Duchy of Brabant) and drowned 72. Villages, where there perished above an hundredth thousand souls, with all their substance. The time of this deluge is expressed by these two latin verses. DurDreChto InCVBVItVIs atroXInCIta VentIs Vrbs quâdIssILVItprotInVs haVsta MarI. In one thousand four hundred twenty and one DORT felt that fearful dissolution. THis deluge happened by the wickedness of a countryman that envying the prosperity of his neighbour, assayed to drown his land that lay near the Sea, or at least to spoil it, not thinking what would follow: and to accomplish this his cursed resolution, he wrought a hole through the earth and made a gutter, that the water of the Sea might drown his neighbour's land; but the vehemency of it was so great, that of a little stream, the Sea gaining more, it made such a gap, that it was unpossible to be stopped, and so all the country about Dordrecht, as it is yet to be seen was lost. Notwithstanding since by little and little Adrian Cornellis vander Mylen a Bourgue maistet of the said town and his children have recovered, and yet daily do recover a good part of it, by virtue of a grant given by Charles the fifth Emperor to the said Bourguemaister, so that at this day there are fair fields, in firm land, adjoining to the said Town, with the little Castle of Craesteyne, belonging to the said Ʋander Mylen. This Town especially the street called Den Langen-dike hath the most fair and lofty buildings that are to be found in all Holland, with their storehouses and caves for Wines all vaulted, so that they never see neither Sun or Moon. There is a fair great Church where there had wont to be a College of Canons. The history of Holland sets down certain foolish fables of the foundation of this Church, which I forbear to repeat for that they are too ridiculous. A Falcon shot from that part of the town towards Papendrecht; there are high and eminent relics of the Castle of Merwe near to the ditch where before the Inundation was, as also of the Village and Barony of Merwe, from whence the Lords of Asperen and Langueraeck have their Barony, enjoying yet both profits and pre-eminences in the town of Dordrecht. Holding upon certain days in the year, either in his own person or by his Bailyffe or sheriff, as large power in judging causes as the Bourguemaister and Council of the town whose authority in case of justice at this day ceases. In this drowned land and in the Merwe there are great store of Salmon and Sturgeons taken, besides it abounds in sundry other sort of fishes, the water being for four or five leagues sweet. The privilege and right of the staple for all sorts of Merchandise, as Wine, Corn, Wood and other commodities that pass by them coming out of Germany, Gelderland, Cleves and juilliers belonging to this town of Dordrecht. Well seeing we have made mention of this word Staple, it follows necessarily for the true understanding of it, that we say something both for the name and use of it. The word Estaple is a French word, derived from the latin word Stabulum, so that the word Staple is a market or public place in a town ordained for the bestowing of Wine, Corn, Wood and other Merchandise that comes from other countries; every Town having their several privileges, according to the grant of the Prince. Not without great grief and vexation to others both Merchants and Mariners that bring them thither. As for example, The town of Arras is the Staple for Arthois, and Valenciennes for Henault, for Wines that are brought out of France by land into the Low-Countries: So that the Merchants or carriers are constrained to bring them thither before any other place, and there to be stayed a certain time in the Staple to see who will buy in the Market, the which being done they may carry them away whether they think best. The town of Middlebourgh in Zealand is the Staple for Wines that come from France, Spain▪ Portugal and other Countries brought thither by Sea. But the privileges of the town of Dordrecht are more strict and compelling; for they are of fuch force and virtue, that whatsoever is brought either by the Rhine, or Meuze, be it corn, wine, pitch, coal or any other Merchandise passing by them, they are compelled (upon pain of forfeiture of all, if they be taken, not having paid their duty) to discharge their boats or barks in their Haven, and to pay all rights, customs, impostes and other duties whatsoever, and also to discharge their Merchandise in Ships of the town or of the Citizens and free Mariners: or else to make some agreement with them and so they may pass them in those that belong to the custom or impost. And notwithstanding that the privileges are at this present divers, and vary one from another, according to the nature of the merchandise and condition of the towns to whom such privileges are granted, yet they have ever from the first beginning been called by the name of Estaple. The which (being sometimes in one town, sometimes in another, either for the situation or some other occasion) cause a great commodity and benefit to the country both in general and particular, and a fair revenue and large profit to the Prince of the same. This town as the first in rank hath power to coin both silver and gold, a privilege denied to any other town of Holland whatsoever. In this town the Prince or Earl of Holland is put in possession of this county, taking his oath to the states of the country, and receiving their homage and feallty. Harlem. THe second town of Holland in rank and prerogative is the town of Harlem, which within this thirty years, before Amsterdam was made greater, was the greatest and fairest of all Holland, as well in fair buildings, as sweet and good temperature of air, having neither the Sea nor Marshes or Fens to annoy it, feared in the midst of a good land fit both for tillage and for pasture, environed with fair country houses, Farms, little woods and many castles and villages, and to conclude seated reasonable high, and very pleasant. It hath one very great Church with a high steeple supported with great columns or pillars, and much longer than any other in the Low-countries. There passeth now through it a river called Spar, which falls out of a lake of fresh water into the channel that runs towards the towns of Amsterdam and Leyden, which is called the sea of Harlem; which river hath been drawn with great labour and charge from that of Tie by the sluices of Sparendam, about half a league from thence: before the town on that side towards Leyden there was heretofore a very pleasant wood which during the siege of the Spaniards was cut down by the Allamaines that were quartered on that side in the village of Hemsted; But within a few years after the Magistrate of the town caused it to be replanted, so as in a short time it became as pleasant as it was before, serving the inhabitants of the town for delightful walks for the exercise of their spirits, and keeping many people of the town from the Taverns and such other places, in passing their time there. There is there likewise made very great store of fine white linen cloth, much desired and sought for from Spain, Italy, and other countries, and also good woollen cloth, which for the die equals any other country, and is likewise transported into foreign regions. Touching the Etymology or derivation of the name, I may not rely upon Lewis Guichardine, who hath followed the old Dutch chronicle of Holland, but rather follow that learned Physician and Historiographer of Horn, Doctor Adrianus junius, who affirms that the Harlemois are issued from the blood of the Kings of Freezland, who first built both the their town and castle in the year of the nativity of our Saviour jesus Christ five hundred and six. The castle was seated upon the channel that runs towards Egmont, not far from Heimskirk, all built of great and large brick, as yet at this day is to be seen by the ruins and ground work of the walls. The demolishment whereof some attribute to the tyranny of the Lord of the place, others to the fury of the people, who sought to extirp and root out the Nobility. This castle alone at this time was not demolished, but like a violent thunder they threw down all to the ground. Seeing we are speaking of this castle, I think it not amiss (although it be set down in the history of the Netherlands) to relate a memorable accident that then happened, as a strange▪ note of true conjugal love. And thus it was. The Lord of the place having by his exaction and cruelty made himself odious to all his people, and he and his wife being besieged, and so priest for want of victuals, that he was compelled (having no other means to escape) to enter into treaty for the rendering of the town. His wife (atrue mirror of piety and love towards her husband) among other articles for the rendering of the town, capitulated that she might have as much of her most precious movables as she could carry out at one time, the which being granted, she (with the help of her chambermaid) carried her husband locked in a chest out of the castle, leaving all her rings and jewels behind her: In imitation of the wife of Guelphe Duke of Bavaria, who in the like necessity prayed the Emperor Conrade, that she and her Ladies might carry out that which they held most dear and precious: the Emperor imagining it was nothing but their rings and jewels, she (and all the Ladies after her example) took her husband on her shoulders and her little child in her arms and so issued forth. But let us return to Harlem; to the which (and that justly) we may attribute the noble invention of the Art of printing, although some (to self-willed) maintain that it came from Mogunce ot Mentz, an imperial and electoral town of Germany; but it is for certain confirmed by many notable and ancient personages of the said town of Harlem that from father to son they have held, and yet to this day do hold it, that about a hundredth and seventy years ago there dwelled in the said Town in a very fair house, which is yet to be seen standing right against the royal Palace, one Laurence jans surnamed Sachristain (which was a good and honourable hereditary office in his family) to whom this place of honour (which some other heretofore have robbed them off) belongs. This man walking forth for his recreation into the Wood of Harlem (as it was the custom the of best Burguers after dinner & supper) began to cut in little pieces of wood the letters of his name, printing them on the back of his hand, which pleasing him he cut three or four lines, which he beat with Ink and printed them upon paper, wherewith being much joyed (as it is said the worekman delights in his work) he determined to find out an other kind of ink more fasting and holding, and so with his kinsman Thomas Peterse, who left four sons; who all came to the place of Burguemaisters (which I speak to that end that I would have no man think that so noble an invention could have beginning from low-spirited and mechanical men) found out an other way to print whole sheets, but of one side only, which are yet to be seen in the said town, and besides a book in Flemish called the mirror of health; which he did in the instancy of this art, no invention being brought to perfection at the first assay) and assaying to print the sheet on the other side, the right side took not, and so he spoiled the impression. Afterwards he changed his letters of wood into lead, and after that into tin to make them more firm, less pliant and more dnrable, the remainder of which Characters are yet to be seen in the house of the said Laurence, since possessed and dwelled in by Gerard Thomas an honourable old Citizen, who died within this fifty years. This new Art never seen before made every one so enamoured of it; that it yielded him much profit, and his business so increased that he was constrained to take servants to help him, but in the choice of them he was so curious, that he entertained not any, but he took an oath of them not to discover the art to any body, being very desirous to keep the principal secrets to himself; yet notwithstanding all his care, one of his servants called john of his own surname, who having learned to compose, cast the letters, and other things belonging to this Art, spied his time and opportunity to run away, the which he did upon Christmas day at night when every body was at Even song, and his master absent, taking away the Characters & other things belonging to this Art, running away like a Domestic thief with the goods and honour of his master to Amsterdam, from thence to Cologne, and afterwards to Mogunce or Mentz where he might live more safe and keep open shop of his theft. Laurens janse printed the Doctrinal of Alexander, a grammar then much in use, and the treatises of Peter of Spain. Behold then what hath been affirmed from time to time by many ancient and honourable personages of the first invention of it, besides the good and sufficient proofs that they of Harlem have; wherefore it were a great wrong to rob them of the honour of this invention, as that thief did his Master, to make his name famous in the town of Mentz. Polidore Virgil in his treatise of the invention of things, attributes it to one john Gutttenbergh a gentleman of Germany. I must needs grant that the art by succession of time was brought to a greater perfection then in Holland, but they like infants sucked their milk from Laurence janse of Harlem the first inventor. Well we see that it was sufficiently divulged, for in the year one thousand five hundred, forty eight, one Conrade (a Germane also) carried this art into Italy and so to Rome. After him Nicholas johnson a French man enriched it marvelously; but above all Aldus Manutius a Roman, a man well read and very learned in the Greek and latin tongues, brought this art to perfection, by his extreme diligence & great travail, never shrinking at any charge or trouble but only respecting his honour & the public good, so that every man desired his books of Aldus edition, they were so neat and exactly printed, he being the first that ever set up a printing press for the Greek tongue. The people of this town of Harlem had the honour of the taking of Pelusium (now called Damiette a famous town in Egypt) which the Christian princes had long time besieged, among whom was William Earl of Holland: While the Princes were consulting how they might first get the haven of the town, wnich was shut up with 2. great chains of iron, fastened to two strong Towers from one side to the other, they of Harlem caused a hulk or two be armed from the top to the bottom with saws made of iron a purpose to cut the chains, and with a good gale of wind at the return of the Sea, ran with full sails spread against the chains, which they broke: and notwithstanding all the arrows and other shot made at them from the two Towers, passed on and got the haven, making passage for the rest of the Christian ships and so the town was won The honour whereof was given to them of Harlem, and in memory of their valour their arms (which before was a dry Tree) were by the Emperor changed to a Sword compassed with six stars, to the which the Patriarch of jerusalem added upon the point a cross Patteé, which are at this day the Arms of the town of Harlem. This town was greatly afflicted and distressed in the year 1572. the Spaniards lying before it eight months to their great loss, yet in the end by reason of famine it was constrained to yield to the mercy of the the Duke of Alva, the violent fury of whose soldiers brought it well near to ruin. During this siege there was observed in the Burghers and inhabitants a marvelous resolution to defend, and constancy to maintain themselves; the garrison soldiers & they never dis-agreeing, which gave examples to the other towns of Holland to arm themselves against the Spanish fury, as we will show hereafter in the description of the town of Alcmar. Delf. THe Town of Delf (heretofore renowned) (but now much more) for brewing good beer which they transport through all Holland, Zeeland and other neighbour countries, not much inferior to that of England) holds the the third rank and suffrage in the session of the Estates for the Country of Holland. This Town hath his name from his situation, being seated upon a channel that comes from the Hage, and falls into the River of Meuze at Delfshaven, which channel cut in a right line cost a great deal of labour and charge before it was made. This town was first founded by Godfrey called the crookebacke Duke of Lorraine, who being called in and assisted by the Bishop of Vtrecht, chased out of Holland Earl Robert the Frison, the Lady Gheertruyd his wife and her little son that she had in her first marriage by Florent the first of that name and sixth Earl of Holland. This Duke of Lorraine enjoyed the said Earldom above four years, during which time he built the town of Delf. But the little son of Geertruyd being grown somewhat bigger with the help of neighbour Princes, both Germans (in regard of his mother) and others, re-entered with a goodly army into Holland to give him battle, where he overthrew him, and having chased him out recovered all his country: But shortly after one of his servants as he was at the privy run him into the fundament with a javelin, of which he died in the town of Maestricht. This town of Delf was straightly besieged by Count Albert of Bavaria (as you may read more amply in the history of the Netherlands) so as being constrained to yield, the Earl caused a great part of the wall to be thrown down. Yet notwithstanding shortly after they did him great service in the war he had with the Frisons (the other Towns refusing to aid him) and courageously released certain English soldiers engaged in a Fort besieged by the Frisons, for which duty and valour of theirs, the Earl consented to the rebuilding of their walls. There befell a pitiful accident to this town in the month of May 1536. being set on fire by casualty & the fire so dispersed that it was almost burned before there could be any help, yet they wanted not water, for it hath two channels that pass through the town. But the wind being very vehement, so dispersed the fire, that there scarce could any thing be saved; yet like the Phoenix renewing out of her ashes, this Town was built again more fair and magnificent then ever before, remedying their error in the first building (which was the chief cause of their ruin) by not suffering one house to be thatched with straw; but high and stately buildings without, with their inward ornaments and furnitures so neat and fitting that in the whole Netherlands it is not to be paralleled; the streets likewise so clean and well kept, that notwithstanding the greatest rain there is no dirt to touch the shoe, so as indeed they seem to be always washed. In this fire there happened so memorable an accident, that (happily) the like hath not been recorded in ancient or modern storries: It is most true that Pliny and other authors set down (as a matter of notable and great consideration) that the young Storks when the old ones are grown in years and past helping of themselves supply that want by feeding them, and when their wings fail in passing the Sea, the young ones take them on their backs: But that which happened of the same birds in the town of Delft is of greater consequence and more remarkable. This town is so seated for the feeding and bringing up of these birds that it is hard to see any house upon the which they are not nested to breed in: This fire happened upon the third of May in the year aforesaid 1536. at which time the young Storks are grown pretty and big, the old ones perceiving the fire to approach their nests, attempted to carry them away but could not they were so weighty, which they perceiving never ceased with their wings spread covering them, till they all perished in the flames. Gaspar Veldius (an author of reverent esteem) in his book of Storks recountes the same, and also D. Adrianus junius in his history of Holland, from whom I have drawn these latin verses following. Candida et obstreperis invisa Ciconia ramis. Pignora ab ardenti viderat igne premi. Aeripatne suos, et aperta pericula tentet? Hinc suadet Pietas, vitae amor inde vetat, Hanc luctam pietas generosa diremit, et urna Esse ●adem, et sobolis vult libitena suae. jam minor Assyrium Phaenicem fama boquatur Viverae quae busto quaerit, at ista mori. The white hued Stork that never sits on bow Seeing her young in flames; ah how it pains her! Shall she for them adventure life to lose? Piety bids her try, but fear restrains her: Yet piety her fear soon overthrows, And so one tomb with her poor young contains her, Give place thou Phoenix then: thou seeks new breath By being Burnt: but she sought only death. AT Delf there are excellent clothes made both great and small that are much desired in other countries, commonly called in their language Delfs puyck. In this town was borne that abominable Monster for heresy and imposture called David George, but his right name was Hans van Burcht a painter of glasses and the son of a painter, one that infected with the poison of his heresy the town of Munster in Westphalia; A man altogether unlearned, yet of so subtle a memory and understanding and withal so eloquent, accompanied with a kind of gravity, that he could persuade his followers to what he thought good, whereby he not only made himself chief head of a new sect, but caused himself by his disciples and followers to be adored as GOD himself, persuading them that he was the true Messias. This Gallant (or rather Devil) was married and had children, governing his family in outward show indifferent honestly, but in effect had neiher religion, virtue or any goodness whatsoever: notwithstanding (the people being for the most part light and inconstant, lovers of novelties, wicked and contentious, feeding their ambition by the first occasion offered) he sowed and dispersed his heresy under colour of divers extravagant laws throughout the lower Germany, being already so far advanced in this business that divers that followed him as his disciples bound themselves to the will of this damnable Arch-hereticke: But this impiety beginning to be discovered and the Magistrate making diligent pursuit and severe inquisition after it, as the case required, this monster fled to Basil in Suitzerland with his wife, children, household and all other his baggage, where being arrived he was taken to be a rich Merchant of the Netherlands fled thither for his religion, and to avoid the fury of the Imperial Placarts, where by his friends and confederates he was welcomed and much made off. When he went to Church with his wife and children he was accompanied (like a great Lord) with a troup of followers and servants, showing at his first coming great liberality to the poor, which made him to be much admired. Being well provided of money he bought a fair house in the town, and a Castle called Benningen half a league out of the town, dwelling sometimes in the one and sometime in the other: To augment his love and reputation with the Citizens he matched some of his children with the principal of the town endowing them very richly, still advancing and teaching in private his most damnable heresy, confirming those that were absent by letters and books which he caused to be printed in his Castle of Beningen: He died in the said town of Basil in the year of our Lord 1556. for mere grief that one of his followers was revolted, fearing that by his means he might be discovered and so punished. Before his death his disciples that thought him to be God seeing him draw towards death, he resolutely said unto them, be not amazed, I go to begin to show my power. Christ my predecessor (to show his power) rose again the third day, and I to show my greater glory will rise again at three years. O horrible blasphemy! The Magistrate being thoroughly informed of his life and doctrine caused his process to be drawn after his death, & by a sentence his body was taken out of the ground, and justice done as if he had been alive; his goods being confiscated, & his books burnt: some of his followers acknowledged & abjured their errors. and embracing again the reformed religion were with all courtesy and gentleness pardoned, and the whole history of it set forth in print, both in latin and dutch to the view of the world. In opposition to this wicked monster the town of Delf hath brought forth many excellent person ages & among the rest Ioos Salsbout an excellent Poet and Chancellor of Gelderland; Arnoult his son who succeeded his father in the same office of Chancellor, and since Precedent of the privy Counsel at Brussels, and from that to be Precedent for the affairs of the Netherlands in Spain▪ Cornelius Musa Provost of S. Agatha, a man of rare virtue and knowledge, a great Divine & an excellent Poet. who was unjustly put to death by the Earl of March about thirtyfive years since. Leyden. THere hath been much dispute and great diversity of opinions about the derivation of this name of Leyden, but I will content myself that Ptolemy called it Lugdunum Battavorum, & Antoninus in his Itinerary or guide for ways to Rome, calls it Lugdunum Caput Germanorum, the head city of the Germans, or the first City of the Roman Empire, from it beginning his journey to Rome; concerning the latin and dutch word of Leyden I will content myself with the ancient use, for that many learned latin Authors have also called it Leyda; be it as it may, yet this is most certain that it hath been heretofore a town of great importance, for the Roman Praetor that governed that quarter kept always his residence and garrison in that town; and the histories of Holland recount that from the first▪ Earles and long after it was called the chamber of Holland. It is seated in a low and even country, full of ditches and channels, beautified with farms, gardens and other delights round about. It encloses in itself thirty one Isles, passing from the one to the other in boats, besides nineteen more that have bridges to pass over. To conclude there are in this town 145 bridges, an hundredth and four built of free stone, and the rest of wood: It is one of the six chief towns of Holland, and the fourth in pre-eminence and suffrage: It is the chief for that quarter of Rind-Land, having under it 49. towns and villages, the most part of which bring their commodities thither (as butter, milk, cheese, lard, foul, fruits and other necessaries) to be sold in the Market, abounding in all things else that the earth may bring forth, and sufficiently stored with fish, the Sea being not above a league from it and compassed with many fresh waters. It is likewise so stored with sundry kinds of fowl, that it is incredible but to them that know it. This town is fairly seated in a delicate prospective, even in the heart of Holland, neatly built and fit for the muses to dwell in; for which cause the States of Holland in the year of our Lord 1575. after they were released of their long and dangerous siege erected an university there, furnishing it with professions in all languages, giving them good and sufficient stipends, drawing to them the sufficients men in all professions that can be found in Christendom, as at this day the Signior of L'escale, Clusius, Baudius, and others professing Philosophy, Physic and the laws: They want not also most excellent and learned Divines, having within this ten years lost three as rare ones as any were in Christendom, to wit the Lord of Saint Aldegond, D. Francis junius and Trelcatius●, professors in the greek and latin tongues, and in Divinity. In the midst of this town there is an old Castle seated upon a higher moat, in the which there is a great large and deep Well all of stone, but now dry, there is not a house in this Castle to dwell in, but compassed about the more and above with some trees, and although it be of no use, yet it is reserved for the antiquity of it. janus Douza a learned Gentleman and Poet of Leyden, hath written of it in these verses. Putatur Engistus, Brittanno orb Redux, posuisse victor. 'tis held, victorious Hengist builded me At his return from conquered Brittany. SInce called Bourg of which came the name of Burgrave (which is as much as to say an Earl of a Town, which we call Viscounts) the title remained long in the Noble family of the Lords of Wassenare, who held the Viconty of Leyden and the jurisdiction of Rhyn-landt, with the Dependences both of it and Ter-goud, until the year of our LORD 1251. after the death of Vicont james, his daughter Christienne being under the protection of the Earl of Holland who utterly spoiled it, yet the possession thereof was delivered again by the Countess jaqueline, unto the said family of the Wassenares, but Philip Duke of Burgundy succeeding in the said County took it away again; whereupon Viscount james, the son of Henry in a full assembly of the Estates contested against the Duke, demanding again his ancient patrimony, but his means being too weak against so puissant a Prince, he was constrained to cease his title, and to content himself with what it pleased the Duke to give him, which was but the bare title of Viscount. There are in this Town three parish Churches, in Saint Pancratius there is a company of canons, and in Saint Peter there is a loaf of bread turned to a stone, safely kept in a place yrond about for a perpetual remembrance of the strangeness of the accident, and this it was: In the year of our Lord 1316. a great famine happening in the town, a poor woman went to her own sister that was very rich to borrow a loaf of bread, to save her and her children from starving, her sister denied that she had any in the house, she insisted that she had, whereupon her rich sister fell a swearing and cursing, praying God that if she had any it might be turned into a stone, which God miraculously suffered to be done, to the confusion of this pitiless and perjured woman, it is not long since there were two loaves, but now there is but one. Two little leagues from Leydéns is Wassenare a fair and beautiful Village, with the two Catwicks, Voorburch and Voorscoten, belonging now to the Counts of Ligne, the masculine line of the viscounts of Leyden and Lords of Wassenare being utterly extinct. In this town Hans van Leyden a knife-maker by his trade was born a most disloyal Anabaptist, and one that by strange and extraordinary means so besotted the people that he made himself King of Munster in Westphalia to the great and pitiful ruin of it. In the end he was besieged by the Bishop (assisted by the Princes of Germany) and after almost a years siege this King of perdition and his complices were taken and punished according to their merits. This King and one of his chief Councillors (called Knipperdolinge) were put into two Cages of iron and hung out of a high Tower, where they ended their cruel and most miserable lives and reign. This town in opposition to this ill hath brought forth many virtuous and learned men, as john Gherbrand an excellent historian: Englebert of Leyden a rare Poet and Grammarian; Nicholas Leonce a good Retorician, and above all janus Douza Lord of Noortwick a most knowing man in the tongues and a most famous Poet, as his printed works testify. In the year of our Lord 1574. this town was straightly besieged by the Spaniards and blocked up with some thirty-sixe forts to famish them, wherein there died above seaventhousand men of famine and the pestilence: the raizing of this siege and deliverance of this town can be attributed to none but to GOD, although the Prince of Orange and the States of Holland did what they could as well by breaking of ditches and drawing up Scluses as otherwise, drowning all the country almost to the town, but not so deep that it would carry boats, until GOD sent a strong South-west-winde which drove the Sea into the rivers and land that great boats past a float and victualled the town: Which the Spaniards perceiving they quit all their Forts and fled for fear of being entrapped. But behold the wonderful and remarkable work of GOD who two days after the Town was victualled sent as strong a North-west-wind that beat back the Sea again from whence it came, as you may read more at large in the history of the Netherlands. Amsterdam LEt us now come to the town of Amsterdam, which within these hundredth years is become so rich and opulent that the very name of it is famous throughout the whole world. It takes name from the River of Amstell that runs clean through the town, and falls into the Zuyderzee, from whence they sail into all Seas, yea the most remote and far off of the whole world. They of the family of Amstell heretofore most rich and opulent (now utterly extinct) were the first that compassed it with palisadoes and h●ld the proprietary Lordship of it. This town since the decay of Antwerp is become the most renowned of all the Netherlands; rich in people and of all sorts of Merchandises, situate in the midst of Holland in a marish country: It is strong by reason of the situation, but stronger by art, the foundations of their houses being made of piles of wood armed with iron and other necessaries of or that purpose▪ so that the charge of building of most houses is more chargeable under ground then above. The ordinary course of their Navigation is to all other parts of the Netherlands, as France, England, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Poland, Denmark, Liflandt, Sueden, Norway, Ostlandt and other septentrional parts, where one may see twice a year, four or five hundred great ships arrive from Dantzick, Rye, Revel and Varna with divers and innumerable quantity of Merchandises; so as this Town is become a wonderful port or Staple, to the amazement of the beholders to see so many great hulks belonging to the Citizens and Inhabitants of the town arrive there, and within five or six days to be all unladen and ready for a new voyage. There is yearly built there a great number of tall & warlike ships as well for trade in Merchandise as for the war: Within this 25. or 30. years the town hath been made greater (as well in the circuit of the walls as in beautiful and fair building) by the half with a new church built where Saint Anthony's gate heretofore stood: It is flanked about with great bulwarks, that answering one na other makes it impregnable: what with the waters about it and the industry of man it is warranted towards the Sea with a long double palisado from the East to the West, in which above a thousand great ships and innumerable of lesser sorts may safely lie out of danger. There hath been of long time two churches, the one called Saint Nicholas the old, the other our Lady the new. To conclude this town is a most rich Storehouse, not only for the Low-Countries, but in a manner for all Christendom, where all things necessary for the use of man are as soon to be found as in all the world besides. D. Adrianus junius in his history of Holland hath writ certain acrostic verses in praise of it, which I think not unfit to be here inserted both in latin and English. A ureus, ut perhibent, quondam ab jove perpluit embar M agnificis turgentem opibus Rhodon: horrea Romae S icaniam esse Ceres, victuro munere ●essit. T orsit et huc occulos facilis Deus ipse benignos● E t me mactam opibus jussit, florereque rebus L aetis: at circundor aquis, pigraque palude O bsita: roboreoque solo stant culmina nix● D epactis altê trabibus, surgentia caelo. A lternansque statis vicibus, maris estus aperti M aenia subcingit, qua part exotica puppes V elliferae inuectant onera, exportantque frequenti M ercatu, Hesperias qua se dimittit in undas B arbaraque Eous pandit quâ littora Titan. E xpedio▪ quos nostra tamen non area verrit, L egifere cumulos Ceraris, genitalia dona, G argara proventu tanto non farris abundant. I nferior fuerit, vel Momo judice, mecum, C ontendit locuplete penu si Trinacris ora, Aequaleisque ferax non Africa stipat aceruos. H orr●um et agnoscit me non male Belgica faelix, O mnigenas, ut opes sic vitae altmenta ministro. R ecte ut quis saturae similem me dixerit aluo R obore defectos succum quae didit in artus. E ximiaes hine adeo Caesar me far coronam V ertutis decus, ac munus spectabile jussit. M ateriem, at linquo soribendi vatibus a●pla●. A shower of gold fell once from jove, men say: M any commend Rhodes wealth▪ Sicilia S ay divers) was the Storehouse unto Rome▪ T rue, once▪ but Ceres now is hither come; E ven she, and all the Deities have laid R itches on me. Be ever rich they said: D rowned is my seat thereof in fenny strand And on wood-piles do all my buildings stand: My walls are washed with waves that ebb and flow B ut from those waves doth mine advancement grow. E ache quarter of the world sends ships to me Laden with waves of worth, for use, for eye. G reat is my gain by trades▪ but greater yet I s that which by my vent of Corn I get. A ffrica, Sicilia and the Idaean field S et parallels with me for that must yield: Such is my state▪ recorded by fame's hand, To be the Store▪ house of all netherlands. O f all things man doth need (nay rathermore) R itch, needy, here may all have choice and store. even as the stomaches sole digestion, H elps Man's whole form with growth of flesh & bone. O ur worth thus tried, made Caesar set a Crown V 'pon our shield, as badge of due renown. S tay, now no more▪ but leave against our will E tern●ll matter for a purer quill. They of Amsterdam made a great present of money to the Emperor Maxmilian the first of that name, for the which he granted them leave to bear an Imperial Crown upon the Arms of their City, a dignity never granted to any Town before. There is yet to be seen in a glass window of the old Church certain purses painted with their mouths downward, scattering gold and silver, signifying this liberality of the Amsterdammers. All sorts of people of most nations have recourse and free leave to dwell in this town: as French, Germane, Italian, Spaniard, Portugesse, English, Scottish, Cymbrian, Sarmatian, Sueden, Dane, Norweghian, Liflander, and other of the Septentroniall parts. At the same time or shortly after that the Anabaptists domineered in Munster, there was a commotion of the same kind of people in this town, who one night after they had been at their private assembly, took arms and possessed themselves of the Market place and the Magistrates house, killing some Burgesses, and among the rest one Burguemaister, but they were repulsed and caused to fly some here and some there, by Boats into Freezeland and other places: Some of them both men and women as they ran up and down the streets all naked were taken and executed after divers and sundry fashions. An ancient Citizen of this town hath also made these verses following in honour of his country. Haec illa est Battavae non ultima gloria gentis Amnis cui nomen, cui cataracta dedit, Dicta prius Dammum, raris habitata colonis Cum contenta casis, rustica vita fuit. Hinc Amsterdamum, iam facta celebrior, atque Fortunae crevit tempore nomen item: Vrbs bene nota prope, atque procul dictant▪ bus oris Dotibus innumeris suspicienda bonis. Dives agri, dives preciose vestis et auri, Vt pleno cornu copia larga beet. Quod Tagus atque Hermus vehit, et Pactolus in unum Verê huc congestum dixeris esse locum. belgia's bright glory we this town may call Which had the last name from the rivers fall Whilom the name was Dam, the people such As had they meat & clothes, thought they had much▪ Hence hight it Amsterdam, and with the name The Fortune hath increased and the fame 'tis known unto far Coasts and Continents And may be well so, for the good it vents. 'tis rich in Corn, in Coin, in Flesh, in Fish And all abundance that the world can wish. Briefly it is so rich, it seems to hold All Tagus, Hermus and Pactolus gold. Goude. ALthough the Historiographers do dispute much about the name of this town, some saying that it came from a Lady so called, heretofore inheritrix of it, others from the golden leaves wherewith the Steeple of their church was covered to show their riches and magnificence: for Goude in the dutch tongue signifies gold, yet it seems to me most probable, that it is derived from a certain water called Goude, beginning from the sluice of Goude near unto Alphen, where heretofore the Romans had their abode, calling it Castra Albiniana, running even to the rivers of Yssule, upon the which at the entry of that water is the said town built. It is a strong town, populous and pleasant, environed with goodly fields & farms, strong walls and deep ditches, and within beautifully furnished with fair houses, but especially upon both sides of the haven and the Market place: Abounding in all sorts of victuals by reason of their commodious situation, and the continual passing of such infinite number of ships, whereby they have this advantage, by reason of their rivers and channels, that they may victual themselves and serve the Provinces of Holland, Zealand, Brabant & others, the greatest part of their wealth coming in by that means. The air by reason it is far from the Sea is more healthsome than any other part of the Province; there runs a channel of freshwater through every street of the town, by reason whereof (heretofore) there hath been in this town 305. Brewers, who served all the rest of the Provinces, their beer being called for the goodness of it the renenew of Goude; but the neighbour towns (notwithstanding the goodness of it) have taken that commodity from them. It hath a fair and spacious Market place in an oval form, and in the midst thereof a great and magnificent Statehouse, which the Lady jaquelin Countess of Holland caused to be built, when at the pursuit of Philip Duke of Burgundy (being abandoned by almost all the towns of Holland) she was forced to retire to the Castle of this town; yet notwithstanding it seems this State house was finished after her death, in the year of our Lord 1440. I have seen at the Hage a chair of wood, upon the back whereof their were two A. A. in gold, and these words Trou aen din. These two A. A. signify Gouda, which is in Dutch A. of gold & Trou aen din. faithful to thee, which was the devise of the said Countess, confessing that they of Gouda had been always faithful and true unto her: under the Statehouse is the Shambles of the town, curiously seated upon pillars not wrought by the hands of a simple Architect; and on the back part is a high place built upon the like pillars which is the place of execution, be it either beheading by the sword or otherwise. The parish-Church of this town is very magnificent & esteemed to be greater than any one in the Netherlands, exceeding both in length and greatness the Archiepiscopal Church of Cologne, passing all belief in the beauty of glass windows, made by two brothers borne in this town, whose equals in this art of painting have not to this hour been found: The 12. of january 1552. the steeple of this Church was burnt by thunder and lightning, of the date whereof D. Adrian's Iwius in his Batavia hath made this distique. LUX bIssena fVIt jani hora vespere nona, CUM sacra johannis Wlcano CorpVII aedes. The tWeLfth of IanVar●e SaInt john's SpIre. At nIne a cLoCk was MUCH Impaird with fire. The which mischievous fire burned nothing but the said steeple, and a part of the church, notwithstanding that it was environed with houses. But about an hundredth years before in the year of our Lord 1438. the 18. of August upon Saint Lewis his day, the town was wholly burnt, except three houses upon the Haven, the old ruins of them being yet to be seen. At this time the old charters and privileges of this town were burnt, whereupon this distique was made. FLetIbVs Id dIaICI qVIa GoVda Credit Mat LVdoWICI. Sorrow allowed with sighs proclaims, That Lodowick's Goude is all on flames. It is not long since, that about half a league from the said town were found divers pieces of silver with this circumscription on the one side, HLUDOVICUS IMP. and on the other CXRISTIANA RELIGIO, which seem to have been coined in the time of the Emperor Lewis the Debonair, the son of the Emperor Charlemagne, and the Father of the Emperor Charl●s the bald, who after he had settled Christian religion in those parts, gave the Earldom of Holland to Thierry of Aquitaine, the first of that name. There is mention made in the ancient charters and privileges of this town, how Florentius the fifth of that name Earl of Holland told a Knight called Nicholas van Cats, that this town had beginning in the year 1272. Others, and among the rest Doctor Adrianus junius 1262. notwithstanding that the said town hath been known to have been long time before, whereof many Gentlemen have taken their names, and chiefly among the rest Thiery Ʋander Goude, one of the privy council to Earl William King of the romans, and the privileges granted to them of Vtrecht in the year 1252. show the like. A quarter of a league out of the town is yet to be seen the place where the Church stood, and is commonly called the old Churchyard, where during the Romish superstition, they used to go on procession in Rogation week; and likewise a way called the old Goude. But for that this place was too far from the river of Issell, the Inhabitants for their more commodity removed from their former dwellings to the place where the Town now stands. The freedom and jurisdiction of this Town at the beginning was no more than the compass of it within the ports and walls, with very little land without, but was afterward in the year of our Lord 1484. much amplified by the Emperor Maxmilian the first, and the Archduke Philip his son▪ with at least a league of land in compass on both sides the river of Yssell. The government of this town appertained heretofore to the Earls of Blois, Lords of the same, and was seated in the centre or midst of the said County: john of Beaumond Earl of Blois by his wife, was made Lord of it and Schoonhouen with their dependences, by his brother William the Good Earl of Holland, to augment his revenues, in the year 1306 who by the consent of his brother, instituted the first payments and rights of customs, with the houses and sluices where he received his right: he enlarged and much beautified the Castle of the said town, the which long time after was chosen by the Estates of Holland (as a place very strong) for the keeping of the charters, privileges and laws of their County; which Castle (except the Tower where their charters were kept) was in the year 1577. demolished, at which time there were many others thrown down in the Low-countries. john of Beaumond Lord of Blois, died in the year 1456. leaving one only son likewise named john, who being a Knight of the Teutonique or Dutch order, went into Prussia against the Infidels, and there died, leaving two sons, john and Guy, Earls of Bloys and of Soyson. john of Chastillon Lord of Goude, rich and strong, issued by his father from the Earls of Holland, and by his mother from the Kings of France, married Madam Mathilda Duchess of Gelder's and Countess of Zutphen, at that time when the houses of Bronchorst and Heeckers assayed to shut out the said Lady from her patrimonial inheritance. To remedy the which the Earl of Blois came into Geldres, accompanied by many Lords and Knights, and a good troup of soldiers besieging Wagheningen and Groensvoerdt, which he took, and afterwards in the right of the Lady his wife, was received into Arnhem and acknowledged for Lord and Prince. This Lord and Lady as Dukes of Gelder's, gave privilege to the Citizens of Goude, to sail with their Merchandise throughout the Duchy of Geldres and Earldom of Zutphen freely, without either tax or toll. This privilege was given in the town of Arnham, in the year of on Lord 1372. john of chastilion died in the year 1381. without children, leaving all his goods to his brother Guy of Blois, who married Mary the daughter of the Earl of Namur (by whom he had one son called Lewis Earl of Dunois, who died young at Beaumond) the two and twenty of December 1397. After whose death the right line of john of Blois was extinct; so that the Signeuries of Goude and Schoonhoven, with their dependences (which were called the Baliage of the county of Blois) returned to the country of Holland, in the time of Albert of Bavaria: notwithstanding Guy of Blois left a bastard called john of Blois Lord of Treslon and Henault, who (as the history of the Netherlands makes mention) had by his wife six sons. It is apparent that the towns of Goude, Dordrecht Harlem, Delft, and Leyden, with the Knights and nobles of the country, represented the Estates of Holland and Westfreezeland long before the town of Amsterdam was received for a member, as it appeareth by divers records and letters of state, past under the seals of the said five towns, together with the injuries that they of Amsterdam have done to them of Goude upon the same. The said town of Goude for the good order which they have always held in discipline and Scholastical instruction hath brought forth many great & learned personages, to their eternal fame: as Henry and john of Goude, whom Trithemius Abbot of Spanheim puts in rank of the rarest writers. William Herman of Goude, whom Erasmus Roterodamus in his Epistles calls his delight, a most excellent Poet and Historiographer. Hermanus Goudanus a great Divine. jacobus Goudanus a famous Poet: Th●odorus Gerardi, Reinerius Suoy a Phi●●ion and historiographer, who have all written learned works worthy to be consecrated to posterity. But Cornelius Aurelius likewise borne in this town surpassed them all in excellent Poesy, as appeareth by the Laurel crown that the Emperor Maxmilian the first sent him by his orator Stephanus of Crocovia. It was he that first controlled Gerard of Nymegen in his book that he writ of the true situation of Batavia or Holland, between the Horns of the Rhine, which the said Gerard of Nymegen would have attributed to the Betuwe, a part of Gelderland; wherein the said Aurelius lively expresses the honour of the Hollanders, who in his youth was brought up by that so much renowned Erasmus of Rotterdam, being begotten at Goude, but by remove of dwelling borne and brought up at Rotterdam. There are many other learned & famous persons sprung from this town, too long here to rehearse, of whom justus Lypsius, janus Gruterus, and Dominicus Baudius of Lille in Flanders, have amply written in their works. Notwithstanding that throughout all the towns of the Netherlands many bloody decrees have been executed for religion on both parts, yet they of this town have been so moderate even to great Papists their neighbours and in their power, that in a hundredth years & more there have been but three executed upon those placarts or decrees, whereof one was an Anabaptist, who being secretly advertised by the Magistrate that he should retire himself, yet he came and rendered himself into the hands of the officer: whereby it may appear that they of Goude have ever detested tyranny and persecution, believing that it belongs only to God to command the conscience. ENCHVYSEN. THis town of Enchuysen hath taken name from the fewness of houses it had at the first, being by little and little become a great town, as is to be seen at this day: this word Enckle huysen signifying little ●r simple houses. It is a fair town and by the natural situation very strong, opposed to the rigour of the sea, standing upon a corner of the land, their traffic by sea makes them rich and opulent, it is for the most part built of fair masonry, having very few houses of wood, for fear of fire, which they have once or twice before had experience of; for you may read in the Annals of Holland, that in the year of our Lord 1297. the Lords of Arkell & Putten burned it all, and yet within twenty years after it was made greater by the half, for all the salt pits that were along the sea bank and the marshes behind, are now within the walls, with many fair gardens & fishponds. There are two passages out to sea, and three havens, at one of the which entrances there is a great tower, whereupon is engraven a Latin distique made by D' Adrianus junius, upon the attempt that Charles the last Duke of Gelder's made for the surprise of it that he might get an entrance into Holland, it expresses the time of the attempt, and is this. EnChVsaM InsIdIIs taCitIs sVh noCte sILentI Ob●Vere adnI Xa est Ge LrICa perfIdIa. The trecheroVs GeLDrols soVght by Violent Might T' haVe ta'en EnchVIsen, through the Veil of n Ight. This town is rich in salt pits, the Inhabitants fetching gross salt from Brovage by Rochel, or in Spain, and sometimes from the salt islands where they have it for nothing, and after boil it again, and refine it, multiplying it with sea-water brought them in boats, taking the heat away & making it white fit for the table, their are as sufficient store of sluices in this town and about it for the passage of sea-water as in France or Spain but the sharpness of the sun is not of that force to congeal and harden it as in other places; heretofore they made great abundance of salt of the ashes of turfs & sea-water, after the manner of making of saltpeter at this day, which they call Silt-sout, whereof they make a great traffic: but since that they have traded to Spain and France, & from thence brought in their great ships what quantity the will, this manner of making it is come to nothing, it being unpossible that that which they made in diverse places should be so good as that which is made of the pure sea-water. This town may very fitly be called Neptune's seat, for that their ships pass all the seas of the world, and have had the honour to carry and bring back the Emperor in diverse of his expeditions, and likewise sundry times King Philip his son, and since ●nne of Austria his wife the daughter of the Emperor Maxmilian the second. They carry in their arms three herrings argent and two stars or, in a field Azure, as a fatal and certain Augur presaging that after the manner of herrings they should cut through all seas, and trade to the one and other pole, which at this time they do: In this town dwelled Doctor Paludanus an exquisite Physician and great gatherer together of strange and rare antiquities, to such an Infinite number that they could hardly be seen piece by piece in three days, the marvelous works of nature as well proceeding from the land as the sea, and the secret works of God being therein to be contemplated & admired, but I understand since, a great part of them have been sold to the Landgrave of Hessen. HORN. ABout the year 1316. in the time of Count William the third of that name called the good Earl of Holland, Zeeland, Henault and Westfreezeland this town took his little beginning in this manner: When the town of Veronne near Alckmar was destroyed by the Frisons, there was a great sluice in the ditch where at this day the market place of the said town stands which was called Roestein by the which the country people entered into the sea with their barks. It happened that three brother's citizens of Hambourgh came and went thither with ships laden with beer, who caused three high houses of stone to be built there for the Frisons, for the Danes came thither ordinarily with oxen, kine, horses and other merchandise, passing the sea with their little ships, from the Cimbrique Chersonesus, or the country of Holstein, so that from time to time by little and little it began to augment in buildings, & first became a village, afterwards a town, and at last a good city: one of these three houses remained entire 220. years after, until the year 1430. The other two being ruined were built again but not with so great stones as this third. There is some diversity of opinion about the etymology of the name of Horn, which signifies as well a hunter's horn as otherwise, some say it is of the haven of the town that turns in form of a little horn; others say that this same place was full of bogs, where now the ditches and walls of the town are, and that there grew there certain plants in great quantity in form of a horn, the which being cut either above or below one might wind as of a cornet. The street of the said town that is called the New Dam, where the woodmongers and shoemakers dwell, and where the turue boats arrive was made in the time of the Count William when there was not water enough without the Sluice of Horn, but that the great ships of Denmark and Hambourge were forced to stay at the sea ditch, and therefore they caused a little long ditch to be made which they called the New Dam, beginning at the great ditch a good distance from the mouth of the sea, from whence they brought their horses and oxen to the town. All this is now within the town; fairly built, and called the New Dam. In the year of our Lord 1350. Duke William of Bavaria the son of the Emperor Lodowick and Marguerite Countess of Holland gave to the burgesses of Horn as large and ample privileges as they had given to them of Medenblick which to this day they enjoy. There is a street in the said town called Here Gerits Landt so called of Gerard of Hemskerke who caused a fair house to be built in a large garden now full of houses, the which Gerard died in the said town in the year of our Lord 1398. after he had served Duke Albert in his wars against the Frisons. In the time of the Lady jaqueline Countess of Holland etc. certain towns of West-Freesland rebelled against her, and called in Philippe Duke of Burgundy the Son of her Aunt, unwilling to be governed any longer by a woman, whereupon grew great wars, the Kennemers taking part with their Princess and making wars against the Waterlanders, and East Frisons, the Hornois by reason of their riches and great traffic that they had from North to South, being grown proud. It happened at this time that a young man of the said town, the son of one of the chiefest merchants called jan Lambrechts Cruyf, being in the town of Goude, where the Countess jaqueline kept her residence, seeing the said Countess pass by, said, without thinking any hurt: It is great pity and shame to use so noble a Dame in this sort, as if she were a common woman. These words were worse taken than they were meant. whereupon ●hee was committed to prison. Lambert Cruyff hearing of his sons restraint, posted thither with a good sum of money to redeem him. Having treated with the judges, and presented this money, they gave him good words, telling him that his son should not die, but should be only lead to the place of execution: Whereas the executioner drawing out his sword, the Countess should cry out, which should cause the headsman to stay, and so his son should be freed. The father was somewhat comforted with this answer, and seeing there was no other means, he recommended the cause unto God. The son being upon the Scaffold, and the e● ecutioner having drawn his sword, the Countess made no show of crying out, so as this poor young man was unjustly executed, wherewith the father being much moved, he said unto himself, being understood by some other. Thou shalt not remain countess of Holland neither shalt thou hereafter enio●e that Country in peace. And thereupon he returned with his money to his own house. Being come to Horn he acquainted the Magistrates and the Burghers with the wrong which the countess had done unto his son, in the town of Goude, whereupon a council was held of all the chief of the town, who concluded jointly never more to acknowledge her for their Princess, and to fortify themselves against her. The father of this young man that was executed, full of discontent and desire of revenge, did give or lend a great sum of money, to begin the fortification of the town. And this being in the year 1427. they began to compass in this town with goodly walls and deep and large ditches. Doctor Adrianus junius (a curious searcher out of Antiquities, as appears by his history of Battavia) was borne in that town, son to Peter de jouge a Bourguemaster. This town abounds with all sorts of victuals, half of it all along the sea, is defended with good palissadoes, and banks, made of a small grass which they call Vlyer, in Latin Alga, wherewith most of the banks in that quarter of Westfrisland are armed, for that it settles close together, and doth not rot in a long time, and being rotten it becomes firm earth. They gather ships ladings of this grass in a certain season of the year, in the sea about the Island of Wyeringhe, from the which it is named, and they keep great heaps thereof in store, to repair their banks at need when as they are any way decayed. It is strange that is reported of this herb, that wild swans at a low water pull it out of the bottom of the sea, the which floating upon the water, stays in a certain place, whereas they go to gather it. This Island of Wyeringhe is not far from that of Texel, nor consequently from Enchuysen, Medenbilck nor Horn, the which besides all other delights which it yields, brings forth abundance of great Skirrit roots, as delicate a meat as can be presented before a King, wherein Pliny reports that the Emperor Tiberius did so delight, as he caused them to be brought out of Germany to Rome. ALCMAR. THis town is three leagues distant from Horn, where ends the jurisdiction of the Canenefates, or Kennemers in the country language: It is in a manner environed round about with divers great Lakes, the which are made by the brooks which fall from the sandy Downs, so as in my opinion this name was given it by reason of the multitude of these Lakes, the which in the Cymbrians tongue they call Meer●n, as if they would say Almeer▪ and some in Latin call it Almeria. There are ten of these Lakes, the which by Sluices and Mills to drain out the water, upon hope of greater profit, have been laid dry, partly at the charge of the Lords of Brederode, and Egmont, as also by Thierry Teyling a Receyvor and other good Burghers of Alcmar; the names of which Lakes thus recovered, were Bergen, containing 1200. Acres of ground, Daele, Veronne, Suyn, Bouckler, Heyuluen, Grobber, Temple, Argillar and the Lake behind. There are yet five remaining, that of Diepee Voere, Scherme, Byems and that of Waerd: the which they have no meaning to lay dry, by reason of their depth, and the benefit they reap by the fresh water-fish which they yield. They say that this town was first founded by Adgill King of Friesland a Godly man, nothing resembling his impious father Radbod, who mocking at the Saints in Paradise, having demanded what was become of his predecessors which had died Infydells, and answer being made him that they were in hell, going to the Font to be baptised by the Bishop of Soissons, he retired back saying, that after his death he would go where his Parents were. Of whom these rough verses were made. O' jocus, ò dirum et tibi formidabile semper Elogium, Radbode, tuum post tristia fata. O jest, and dismal memory withal, (Radbode) for thee, and thy dire funeral. This Adgill, reigned in Friesland in the year 720. whose limits were very great, he founded the town of Alcmar but it doth not appear by any Annals, when it was walled in, yet of late years they have discovered the foundation of a Castle, which Petrus Nannius a learned Historiographer borne in the same town affirms that he hath seen: the question is if this castle were built by King Adgill, and if it were called Alcmar, which town (the Frisons having ruined some 450. years since) is now well fortified with goodly ditches, & mighty walls, flanked with nine great Bulwarks, which have been made within these 35. years, after that the Spaniards had besieged it, battered it and given main assaults, were in the end forced to raise their siege with dishonour and loss, the Burghers, yea the women and children showing themselves as courageous and resolute to defend their ramparts, as any martial men could have done, having a late precedent of the Duke of Alva's cruelty against them of Harlem after their yielding. It is a fair and pleasant town, and exceedingly well built, furnished with fish and foul at an easy rate, by reason of the Lakes: They have great abundance of butter, cheese, beef, mutton and coneys, the air is wholesome and the situation pleasing, having goodly meadows round about it. Besides the castle above mentioned, there were two others not far from thence to stop the incursions of the Frisons, who did annoy Holland daily; which two castles Martin van Rossen Martial of the camp to Charles Duke of Gueldres did burn and ruin some three score and ten years since. About a thousand paces from the said town, in old time was the town of Veronna, the which was fair, spacious and well peopled; of great wealth, and the Metropolitaine of all the base Frisons, whereof at this day there is nothing to be seen, but the ruins, the foundations whereof give good testimony what it hath been. In the fieds of Veronna (which be very fertile in corn) is a village called Saint Pancrat. We must believe that this town of Veronna hath been the chief of all the base Frisons, the Firebrand of war and all combustions against the Hollanders, to whom they were near neighbours: and for their treachery and breach of faith were often assailed by the Princes of Holland, so as in the end, john Earl of Holland, having conceived an irreconcilable hatred against them, caused it to be razed to the ground, and ploughed up, forbidding them ever to build it up again, for the ruining whereof he drew in the English, to whom he gave it in prey: the said town having been delivered unto him by the treason of Phobe Bourguemaster thereof, who had sold it for a boot full of silver, whos● sepulchre, (being cast al●●e into a hole, and covered with dung) is yet to be seen in a tower of these ruined castles, the which is at this day called Phobes tower. The History of the destruction of this town, (the which a certain Priest hath written) hath been for these many years kept in the cloister of Henloo, but I know no● what is become thereof since it was ruined in these last troubles. William Goudan Schoolfellow to Erasmus of Rotterdam in his History which he hath written of Hiero a Scottishman who was slain by the Danes, speaking of this town saith. Quos pris●i Frisios' olim dixere minorés Arctoò a fluvio, pelagique venitis ab ora, Tunc vobis Verona caput, nunc campus et arua etc. You, whom old writers lesser Frisons call Come from the Northern coasts the first of all, Then Veron was your head, that now lies waste etc. In an other place he faith. — Frisiis, si quando bella vocabant Dux Verona fuit ac tantae gloria gentis. — When unto wars the Frisons went Verona was their guide, and ornament. Whereby it doth plainly appear that this town of Veronna hath been very famous. But why the Annals have made so base a mention thereof, I can yield no other reason, but that it might either be through the ignorance of writers, or for the great malice and hatred they bore against this town, the memory whereof they desired to have extinct. This inscription doth witness the year of her destruction. frIsIae●303 ●303. There are yet two Bells to be seen that were cast in the said town of Veronna, the one in the village of Val●kenooge, and the other in the City of London in England. The rights of fishing which the said town hath had, in all the Lakes, the Rhine and the Meuse, which at this day they call Veronna, being annexed to the revenues of the Princes of Holland, give good testimony how rich and mighty it hath been: and the accounts which are held of the territory of the said town, which they call the accounts of Veronna, do well witness it. The seal of the said town hath been found within these fifty years; in which was graven an Eagle looking up to heaven, with the wings displayed, and on the side of it a sword, with this inscription. SIGILLUM CIVIUM DE VRONELGEYST. There was about a league and a half from Alcmar, a good part of the country called La Sype, twice or thrice drowned, until that the well affected Burghers, with the help of many Noblemen, Gentlemen, and others, both of Holland and Brabant, had (with their great charge) recovered it, and fortified it with so good banks, as they have no more cause to fear any inondation, whereof they have made a fertile country, fit both for tillage and pasture, with many goodly farms. Although that Adrianus junius would make Horn the Metropolitaine of West-Frisland, yet this town of Alcmar hath the first place and the first voice, in the Estates of the said Province. MEDENBLIC. MEdenblic is seated upon the sea, in the farthest part of North Holland, two leagues and a half from Enchuysen●; it hath a port made by art, fortified with that sea grass above mentioned; a safe retreat for ships in fowl weather, having a strong castle. It was quite burnt by the Frisons in the year of our Lord and Saviour 129●▪ and the castle was so long besieged, as they were forced for to ea●e horses. The ignorant multitude ●old ●n opinion that the Fabulous Medea gave the name, and that her Image of brass guilt, being set upon an heigh eminent place, did serve as a sea mark to all sailors: Also when as the Sun did shine upon this Image they did call up their servants to work, crying Medeeblinckt (Medeeshynes) and that thereof it took the name of Medenblyck. They hold that King Radbode, who (as we have said) went from the font when he should have been baptised, held his Court there. It hath within 34. years been so fortified with walls and bulwarks as it is now held impregnable; the country about it being entrenched with ditches, is full of meadows fit to sat cattle it is well furnished with victuals, and good cheap. EDAM. THat which at this day is called Edam, was in old time named Yedam of a current of water which is called Ye ury Yde, the which running about the Church, fell by a Sluse, (which they call Dam) into the great channel of the town, which goes unto the sea, that is to say, the Sluse of Yde. There is a certain village in the midst of this water, called Middelye. The town is at this present well walled in, and ditcht, it is famous for the good cheese which is ma●e there, it hath a long haven, to the which there belongs many great and goodly ships, which are built there every year, being as stately and of as great charge as any in Holland or Zeeland be it either for war or Merchandise. In the year of our Lord 1404. some women of this town going in barks to feed their cattle in the near pastures of Purmermeer, they did often see at the ebbing of the water, a sea woman playing in the water, whereat in the beginning they were afraid, but being accustomed to see it often, they incourraged one an other, and with their barks entered into this water, into the which she was come at a full sea, and could not find the way out again: these women having discovered her, made with their boats towards her, and the water being not deep enough for her to dive unto the bottom, they took her by force, drew her into a boat and carried her to Edam, where in time she grew familiar, accustoming herself to feed of ordinary meats: They of Harlem desired much to have her, to whom she was sent, and lived some fifteen years: she never spoke, seeking often to get again into the water, you may read this discourse at large in the History of the Netherlands. This town is two leagues equally distant as well by sea as by land from Horn. MONICKENDAM. THis town on the Southside looks towards, the I'll of Mark, which is opposite unto it: the sea therein reasonably still, for that it lies under the Lee of the said Island: It is not very spacious, and towards the Land it is walled and ditcht. It takes the name of a Lake near unto it called Monicker-meere, the which being at this day defended with banks, is made a sea, whereas great ships lie safely being covered with that Land. The arms of this town are a Monk clad in black, holding a mase in his hand whereby we may conclude that both the Lake and the town took their names from a Monk, but why or what he was, it is not, known. This town was built in the year of our Lord and Saviour 1297. When as the Frisons came thither with a fleet of ships to go and succour the Bishop of Vtrecht, it is but a league from Edam. PURMERENDE. THis town stands in the midst of Moors, lying at the end of the Purmer sea, where is a Sluice, by the which they of the town sail towards Edam, Monickendam and other places that border upon the said sea, on the other side there is nothing but Lakes, which coast the towns of rip, Graft, Wormer, even unto Alcmar. In these three boroughs, they are rich men which employ themselves most at sea, as well in fishing for herring as in trade of merchandise. At Wormer they make abundance of good biscuit, which they carry to sell in all the towns of Holland, Zeeland and Friesland, for the provision of their ships. This town is very small; it hath been fortified during these last wars, against the town of Amsterdam, the which in the beginning of the troubles held the Duke of Alva's party, but this was allied to the towns of Alcmar, Horn, Enchuysen, Medenblick, Edam, Monickendam, with other places of West-Frisland, against whom the Spaniards could not prevail, but lost many men in this waterish country, the which is rightly called Waterland: in the which are the said towns of Purmerende, the three boroughs above mentioned, and many other villages. This town was first built by a private person, but very rich, the which came afterwards with the castle to the Earls of Egmont, and joins unto his haven upon Alcmar side: It is very cheap living there, by reason of the abundance of flesh and fish. MUDEN. THe town of M●den is seated at the mouth of the river of Vecte: some forty years since it was but a poor paltry village, feeling then the miseries, which it had endured by the burning and spoils of the Duke of gelders, but within two years it was repaired. Since the last troubles (yea within these twelve years) it hath been wholly finished and beautified, with ramparts, goodly bridges and fair houses: It hath a strong castle upon the gulf whereas the Vecte runs into the Zuyderzee. This castle is famous by the taking of Floris the fifth Earl of Holland; who having forced the wife of a Knight called Gerard van Velsen, was (by the conspiracy of many noble men of Holland) taken being a Hawking, and carried into this castle, thinking to transport him from thence into England, there to end his days, and to call home Earl john, who had married the King's daughter: but they found no opportunity to effect it: besides the commons of the Waterlanders did rise of all sides to succour him; the which the conspirators finding, meaning to carry him by land into some other country, they led him from thence; but as they were eagerly pursued; Van Velsen being loath to abandon his prisoner, whom he had mounted upon a paltry jade, coming to leap o●er a ditch (as all the country is full of trenches) the horse falling, overthrew the Earl into the ditch. Van Velsen (seeing that he could no longer keep him,) with a furious desire of revenge, gave him eighteen wounds with his sword, whereof he died upon the mount of Naerden, whether the peasants carried him Van Velsen and the other conspirators saved themselves in the castle of Croenenburg, where they were taken and grievously punished: The Lords of Amstel, Woerden, and some others, escaped, and wandered long up and down. The Siegnior of Nyuclt is captain of this castle of Muyden, with a good garrison well provided of all things. NAERDEN. ALthough that this town hath suffered much, being first ruined by that warlike Prelate the Bishop of Vtrecht, of the house of Arckel, who changed the place of situation, and did cause them to build it where it now stands, being a fair and a strong town, the which we may justly say is but a shop of Weavers, whereas they make great abundance of very fine cloth. The houses of this town are very fair, being newly built within four and thirty years. For the Duke of Alva meaning to be revenged of the Hollanders, (who were for the most part revolted, by reason of his tyranny,) he sent Don Frederick his son thither with an army: who approaching near unto the town of Naerden: the Bourguemaister & council of the town, went forth to meet him, and to present him the Keys of the town: when being entered with his troops, the Burghers seeking to give them all the contentment they could devise: the Spaniards (contrary to their faith and promise) fell upon them, and murdered a great number (whom they had caused to retire into a church) in cold blood, forced and deflowered the wives and virgins, spoiled the town▪ and having carried away their booty, they set it on fire; the which was a good precedent for the other towns of Holland: by the which the towns of Harlem and Alcmar took example, the first being as cruelly entreated after their yielding, and the other so encouraged to defend themselves, as after a siege of six weeks and diverse assaults, the Spaniards were forced to retire to their dishonour and loss. This town of Naerden is the chief of the bailiwick of Goeland, which the Bishops of Vtrecht have often pretended to belong unto them, but since it is annexed to the revenues of Holland. GORRICHOM. THis town of Gorchum or Gorrichom, from a small beginning, is grown to the greatness and state wherein you see it at this day, for it takes his name from poor Fisherman, who had their lodgings or cabins along the river of Lingen, until it joins with the Meuse and Wahal, who by reason of their po●uertie; were in contempt called Gorrikens: whom john of Arckel the seventh Baron of that race, Lord of the country of Arckel, caused to come and dwell behind and about his castle, where by degrees he built a good town, the which he walled in about the year 1230. And to the end they should retain their name of Gorrikens, he called this town Gorrichom, as much to say (hom or h●ym, in old time signifying a house or abode) as the dwelling of these Gorrikens. There is in this town a great market of fish, fowl, and all other provision needful for the life of man, whereof they make a great trade, as well into Brabant, as other places, which doth much enrich the town: for the Burghers themselves are both merchants, mariners and factors, one man alone supplying the place of three: from the top of the highest steeple you may see in a clear day two and twenty walled towns, besides bourroughs and villages, which are very many, being a pleasant sight to behold; near unto it is the Champion country where (as they say) Hercules Alemanicus did camp. Whereupon they call all that quarter the country of Hercules, the which the common people did afterwards term Herkel, and from that to Arkel: when the said town was obscured by the house of Arkel, by reason of the continual wars which their Lords made against the Earls of Holland. Charles●uke ●uke of Bourgongne caused a goodly castle to be built there upon the river, nee ● unto the Port of Do●d●ect▪ the which since these last troubles hath been razed and fortified after an other manner; so as there remains nothing but a place for the payment of the custom: it is so fortified with twelve bulwarks, besides half▪ moons and counterscarps without it, together with that abundance of water, as one would say it were impregnable. It is made half bigger than it was twenty years since: the river of Linghen runs through the midst of it, being always full of ships: it falls into the Meruve, and mingles itself with the rivers of Wahal and Meuse: all which together pass before Dordrecht, Rotterdam, Delfs-hauen, Schiedam and the Briele, where it falls into the British sea. Master John Harry Chanoine of the Chapel at the Hage in Holland, was borne in this town; he was so great a lover of pity, virtue, and learning▪ as during his life he sought out (with great care, diligence and cost) all books, in all languages and faculties. When he came to reside at the Hage, he brought so great a number of books with him, as the people thought there were not so many to be found in all Holland: wherewith he made a goodly Library, the which he did augment with great care even to his dying day, which was in the year 1●32. where of he made the Emperor Charles the first his heir. WORCOM. ALthough this town be out of the limit●s of the County of Holland, beyond the river of Wahal, on Brabant side, right against the strong castle of Lovestein, having a little lower on the other bank the town of Gorchom, the which in ancient time did belong unto the Earls of Horn, which the King of Spain did confiscate, and since it was quite burnt: but the Estates of Holland having seized thereon, and fortified it with good ramparts, bulwarks and ditches, it hath been new built, and is made a fair town, where the Estates do entertain an ordinary garrison, with a Captain superintendant. Of late years the Estates (to cut of all controversy touching the jurisdiction of the said Town) agreed with the Lady Walburge Countess of Moeurs and Nyeuwenaert, widow to Philip of Montmorency the last Earl of Horn, who sold them the propriety of the said Town, with the castle and territory of Altena, not far from thence, being in ancient time all drowned, but now it is a country full of good pastures: So these two pieces of Worcom and Altena, are annexed to the revenues of the County of Holland, wherewith it is so much augmented. There is an other Worcum in Friesland upon the sea, not far from Hindelopen, the which hath the title and privilege of a town, although it be but a borough without any walls, but it is great, and almost three thousand paces long. HEUSDEN. IS a reasonable fair town and well built, situated on Brabant side, upon the river of Wahall, with a goodly castle, where the Governors do reside, the last of which was Floris of Brederode, Siegnior of Cloetinge, brother to the Lord of Brederode last deceased, who left one son the only heir of all the house of Brederode. The Siegnior of Locren commands there now for the Estates. It was long under a private Lord. They of Brabant pretended it to be of their jurisdiction, but Holland hath held it unto this day. It hath a large command. LEERDAM. THis town is small, yet walled in, standing upon the banks of the river of Lingen; it hath been so often ruined in the old wars, as they have had no great care to repair it, so as it is of small moment, it belongs to Philip of Nassaw now Prince of Orange, Earl of Buren, and hath a castle which is still maintained. HENCLOM. HEnclom is a town seated also upon the river of Lingen, opposite to Leerdam: it is a little town and very ancient, but goes to decay. It hath an old Castle which they say was built by Hercules Alemanicus, but GOD best knows how true it is. The Lords of this little town are descended from Otto, the younger son to john the eight Lord of Arkel, who gave him this Siegneurie in his life time. ASPEREN. IS situated upon the bank of the same river of Lingen, which the Inhabitants call Lyeven, that is as much to say as Love, for that the stream runs so gently. In the year 1516. it was grievously afflicted by the Geldrois, who being accompanied by some rebels and mutinous Hollanders, besieged it, and in the end took it by assault, notwithstanding all the valiant resistance of the besieged, whom they put to the sword, and set fire of the town, not sparing the very Churches, into the which the women and children were retired, whom they entreated so barbarously, as Turks in their greatest fury could not have exceeded them. OUDEWATER. THis word signifieth Old-waters, which they term in Latin Aquas veteres, it is a reasonable good town, and hath rich Burghers in it: it stands like unto Goude, upon the river of yssel, a league from Woerden, betwixt which towns they sow great abundance of hemp, wherewith they make ropes, cables and nets for fishing, which is the chief work of the poorer sort, & the greatest profit of the richer. This town was besieged by the Lord of Hierges for the Duke of Alva, and valiantly defended, but in the end it was taken by assault, whereas the Spaniards after they had used their accustomed cruelties, set fire of it, so as it is not yet repaired. ROTTERDAM. ROtterdam is situated near unto the Meuse, upon the mouth of the channel which they call Rotter, whereunto adding Dam (which is a Scluse) it makes Rotterdam, the Scluse of Rotter. Of that which Guichardin and Sebastian Munster write of the foundation and antiquity of this town, I believe no more than Doctor Adrianus junius doth: for it is a matter without all doubt or controversy, that the place where as the town now stands, was heretofore an arm of the sea, without the river of Meuse, which the remainder of the banks do yet witness, the which extended from the castle of Honingen (belonging to them of the house of Asendelfe) unto Croeswicke, which was a castle upon the Rotter, and so went on unto the village of Ouderschye, and ended at the ditches of Schiedam. Rotterdam is augmented more than a moiety within these two and twenty years, having removed the port of their haven (which they have made of goodly Freestone) from the old seat, at the least a hundred paces nearer unto the mouth of their haven, and to the point: near unto which port is a goodly Bourse for Merchants with three galleries, which stand upon pillars of freestone. The town doth daily increase in wealth, First by their fishing with their great ships, called Busses, the which are strong and well appointed both to encounter an enemy, and to resist the violence of the sea: and of late years by their trade to the East and West Indies, and seeking their fortunes against the Spaniards, from whom they have many times taken great prizes: The haven is long, built all of a blue stone, which doth resist the violence of the water, in which haven a great number of ships may safely lie. Every year there are goodly great ships built in this town for theselong voyages, and galleys where there is any need of them for the war, upon the coast of Holland and Zealand. Some five and thirty or six and thirty years since the Earl of Bossu having surprised it by the Duke of Alva's command (where some Burghers were slain) by the negligence of some insolent soldiers, it was fired, the which by the means of a great tempestuous wind, did consume above nine hundred houses, and some ships, where there were men lost. The loss was great, but it was soon repaired, and the houses built fairer and higher than before, the most of them being of blue stone. That great light of learning and knowledge Desiderius Erasmus Roterodamus was borne in this town, almost right before the Church door, in a street which goes unto the market place, of which town he doth often speak honourably in his writings. There is over the door where he was borne being a little house, where I have seen a Tailor dwell, a small round circle, whereas his face only is drawn, with an inscription in Latin and Spanish, saying, here that great Erasmus of Rotterdam was borne: and in the Market place looking towards the haven, his picture is planted at length with a book in his hand. He hath deserved this honour and much more for his great knowledge, whereof he hath given good testimony, by so many Books which he hath put forth to the honour of God, and the instructions of Christians: yet all men speak not equally of him, but envy never dies. He had been an Augustine Monk, and therefore the Monks were his greatest enemies: yet he was held in good reputation, and had a living from Pope Leo the tenth. He died at Basill in Switzerland, and is interred in the Cathedral Church, where I have seen his Sepulchre entering into the Quire. SCHIEDAM. IS a town situated upon a current of water, which comes not far out of a country called Schie: from whence it takes the name, as if one would say the Sluse of Schie. It hath a good haven upon the Meuse. It is apparent by the privileges of the said town, that it was made a town in the year 1274. and had their privileges granted from the Earl of Holland, with power to administer justice, with many good laws, whereof mention is made in the foundation & of the building of the said town, which was then called Nyeuwen-Dam, that is, the New Scluse, which name it carried until the year 1300. and since it hath been always called Schiedam. In this town there is an hospital, which for antiquity is equal with the foundation, the which they called the Hospital of the new Dam, which hath this privilege, that a Bourger or any other dying, either within the town, or in the liberties thereof, the best garment he leaves, doth belong unto the said hospital. The chief trade of this town is fishing for herring, to which end they do every year send forth a good number of Busses into the North sea, and from thence they transport and sell them far and near. It is a rich merchandise and much desired in France and the East countries, as at Danzig, Conixbergen, Hambourg, Lubeck, Bremen, and generally throughout all Germany. It is a common saying, that the herring is a little fish, but strong enough to ruin his Master, when he plays with his tail, that is to say, when he sells not, but when the fishing and the vent is good, it makes them rich. Besides this fishing, they commonly send forth every year many great ships, which traffic throughout all the seas of the world; so as there are many good masters of ships, Pilots, and expert mariners in the town. The Merchants and Burghers of this town are sincere and just in their dealings, who imitating the ancient pains of the old Hollanders, hate all pride, pomp, and superfluity, as well in banquets, apparel, as rich movables, wherein they are very moderate, with an honest parsimony, such as their predecessors used, which is an honour unto them. BRIELE. IT seems this town hath taken his name from the largeness of the gulf, where as the Meuse and the Rhine (joined together) fall into the Ocean or British seas, in which place they say that Claudius Civilis (issued from the blood royal of the Battavians did fight with the Roman fleet, but without any great gain to either part. This word of Briele, doth well agree with that of Hiele in Pliny, which for the largeness of the gulf may be called Bre-heile (which is a large heel) and by corruption of the tongue Briele. This town with that of Gheerulyet (a small town in the same Island of Vorne) are reasonably good, the Inhabitants for the most part are seafaring men, which get their living by fishing, and that which belongs thereunto. The air of this town is gross and heavy, lying so near unto the sea, so as it is every year visited with some disease or other. The country about it is very fertile, and yields abundance of good wheat, and all other victuals are plentiful and good cheap there. SCHOONHOVEN. THis town takes his name of the goodly and pleasant gardens, which are both within and about it, abounding in diverse sorts of fruits. For this word Schoonhoven, signifies goodly gardens. It is situated upon the left bank of the river of Leck: they hold that it was built of the ruins of the town of Nieuport, the which at this day is but a Bourg, on the other side of the said river, opposite to Schoonhouen: In all this passage even unto the village of Leckerke; there is great fishing for Salmon, which they sell in the said town, and the villages thereabouts. Christopher Longolius that excellent Orator, was borne in this Town, although that some would have him a Frenchman, or a Wallon. The which Peter Longolius his Uncle, a very learned man did witness, whose testimony is sufficient to confute all other opinions. There passeth a channel through this town which comes out of the river of yssel, very commodious to pass from one river unto the other. ISELSTEYN. IT is a small town but very strong, being so fortified by reason of their great wars. It is so called of a little channel which passeth, coming out of the river of yssel▪ There had been a long controversy betwixt the Hollanders and them of Vtrecht for the jurisdiction of this town, either party pretending an interest. Some four and thirty years since, the Church steeple was burnt by lightning from heaven but did no other harm unto the town. It is of the patrimony of the house of Egmont, whereof the last Lord was Maximilian of Egmont, Earl of Buren and Iseisteyn, who left one daughter, sole heir to the Lord of Launoy, whom William Prince of Orange did marry, being his first wife, so as all the inheritance of these houses of Buren and Launoy came to Philip William, and to the Lady Mary of Nassau Countess of Hohenloo his sister. WOERDEN. IS a reasonable good town and well built, with a market place, whereas all provisions are to be sold once a week: it stands in a more having a strong castle, whereas they keep prisoners of importance: as of late days the Admiral of Arragon, the Earl of Busquoy and others. The Lord of Hierges having taken Oudewater (as we have said) for the Duke of Alva, & the town of Schoonhoven, he went to besiege Woerden, where having begun to make his approaches, and to plant boats for his battery, they of the town let go all their Sluices, the which in one night drowned the country about, so as he was forced to rise and leave two pieces of ordinance. This town was built by Godfrey Bishop of Vtrecht, a man given to arms, to suppress the courses of the Hollanders. And therefore the superiority thereof was for a long time questionable betwixt the Earls of Holland and the Bishops of Vtrecht. It hath for long time had a particular Lord, among others a brother to the Lord of Amstel, who being one of the conspirators of the death of Cont Flo is the fifth fled and continued a vagabond; since b● the law of Arms the Hollanders have enjoyed it. VIANE. IT is a little square town seated upon the left bank of the river of Leck, a free Barony belonging to the house of Brederode, which would neither be subject to the King of Spain, nor to the Earls of Holland whereof there hath been some question, (yet it is held of the dependences of Holland but it is not yet decided. It hath a fair Castle, which is the ordinary abode of Walrard Lord of Brederode, Baron of Viane, Ameide, etc. having a large jurisdiction. It hath endured much after the retreat of Henry Lord of Brederode, in the year 1567. SAINT GERTRVYDENBERGHE. THis word signifieth the mount of Saint Geertruyde, it may be, for that the place had been dedicated to that Saint. It is a strong town both by nature and art, situated upon the left bank● of the river of Meruve: more famous for the taking of great Salmon then any part of all the Netherlands; and such abundance of Aloses or trout, as on a market day you may see above 18000. great and small, and many great sturgeons, which in a convenient season are transported to Antwerp, Brussels, Gand, Bruges and other places, besides that which is distributed into Holland, Zeeland and the rest of the united Provinces. The like is found in the river of Yssel near unto the town of Campen in the country of Oueryssel. In former times there hath been great controversy for the propriety of the said town, the Brabansons' pretending a title thereunto for that it stand▪ on their side, and the Hollanders making claim also unto it, by reason of their ancient possession. Which question proceeded so far, (there being no means to reconcile it) as the Estates of Holland (when they did receive their Earls) bound them by a solemn o●h to keep it under the said Earldom, and they of Brabant on the other side did bind their Dukes to recover it: Yet it appears plainly by the Chronicle of Holland, that when as their Earl (who was also Earl of Henault) intended to go to Mons, Valenciennes or any other place of the said Earldom, the Nobility of Holland came to accompany him to this town, whether they of Henault came to attend him, and did conduct him whether he would go, as also in his return they brought him thither, where as they of Holland did encounter him to convoie him into Holland. This town is of the inheritance of the house of Nassau, in whose name it was cunningly surprised in the year 1573. and so continued under the union of the united Estates, until that some lewd persons (under colour of an ill grounded mutynie,) sold it in the year 1588. to the Duke of Parma, for ready money. But since in the year 1593. it was recovered by siege in view of the old Earl of Manffeldt, who was general of the King of Spain's army, and governor by provision after the death of the Duke of Parma: It is at this day under the united Estates, better fortified then ever, and always manned with a good garrison, and furnished with all other necessary provisions. THE HAGE. BEsides Cities and walled towns which they account to eight and twenty in number, there are in Holland many great Bourroughs, which their Princes have enriched with goodly privileges being nothing inferior to some walled towns, both in greatness, buildings and beauty. Among the which no man can de●ie but the Hage holds the first place, which they do commonly call the Earls Hage: which place the old Earls and Princes did choose for their Court, and for the seat of their great council, whereas all causes are ended as well upon the first instance, as by appeal to the Earls of Holland, Zeeland and West-Frisland. This place is as stately, and pleasing, as well in buildings and houses of Princes, great personages and of the meaner sort, as in gardens and other delights, as any other in Christendom. The Palace is great and dicht about, where as all the councillors both for justice, government, war and treasure assemble. It was built by William King of romans and Earl of Holland who caused the councillors to be transported from Gravesandt (which is near unto the sea) to the Hage. The great hall of the Palace is built with wonderful art, being not strengthened with any great beams a cross, but only with a roof in form of an Arch, which binds the whole building; the timber was brought out of Ireland, which hath a property not to endure any poison, and therefore you shall not at any time see a cobweb there. On the North side it hath a great pool, and above it a little hill planted with great trees, where as there are pleasant shady walks for Summer▪ and feats to rest themselves on. Along these walks are many houses of Noblemen, Precedents, Gentlemen, Councillors and other men of quality▪ Going out of the Court-gate on the northside also, you come unto an other goodly place, which is appointed for the execution of justice, all so neatly paved, as the more it raynes the cleaner it is, the streets cleansing themselves with the rain: Passing on they come to an other great walk full of trees, one joining to an other, the which in the spring time yield a sweet and pleasant smell; this walk coming behind the houses and a street betwixt both, it goes to the gardens of the Harquebusiers and Crosbow-men, whereby they enter into the court on the backside. This Palace is the ordinary residence of the Governors of Holland, Zeeland and West-frisland, who at this day is that great captain Prince Maurice of Nassau, Marquis of Campver● Flussing etc. High Admiral for the untied Provinces, second son to that valiant and wise Prince of Orange, William Earl of Nassau. It is half an hours passage to go from the South which comes from Delfe, unto the end of the North, (which goes to Scheveling upon the sea-shoare) it is not much less from the East to the West, which are the two bredthes compass in the Bourrogh: going out on the eastside towards Leyden, you enter into a pleasant little wood some 1500. pace●●ong, but not so broad, well planted with oaks and all other sorts of trees, and full of Deer and Coneys, a very pleasant place, the which in the Summer time is much frequented; whether the Advocates and Proctors go often to walk when as they come from pleading, before they go to dinner. The Provincial council consists of a Precedent and fourteen councelors, (among the which is numbered the Advocate fiscal) an Attorney general, a Register and other Officers. There also doth the receiver general of the said country and of West-frisland remain. The Chamber of accounts which was wont to be there for Holland, Friesland, Groaning, Oueryssel, Vtrecht and Zeeland, is now restrained to Holland and West-Frisland alone: the other Provinces having withdrawn themselves, every one having his receiver and chamber of accounts apart: True it is they have subjecteth themselves to bring the money which riseth of contributions and taxations thither, and to deliver it unto the receiver general, and to be accountable unto the Treasurer general of the united Provinces, and to the Exchequer of the general Estates. In this Palace is yet remaining that great and royal Library, which was gathered together by that famous Chanoine john Harrie above mentioned. About three score and ●en years since Martin van Rossen came with his Geldrois of the garrison of Vtrecht, at noon day to spoil this goodly Bourg, all the councillors and Advocates flying away and abandoning their houses to these insolent soldiers, who carried away their spoil in boats to Vtrecht, without any opposition. They said that if this goodly Bourg had been walled in, they had not been subject to calamity. Within these six and thirty years they had attempted it, but by reason of the fury of the Spaniards it was not held fit: for such as were opposite unto it, said▪ that coming to be besieged it should be quite spoiled and ruined: whereas finding it open and the people fled, they did but lodge there sometimes as they passed, and sometimes they stayed there, whilst they did overrun the villages of West-holland. In this place was borne that learned Prelate john jugenhage being of a Noble family, of whom the Abbot Tritemius and William Vuytenhage make mention, being the first comical Poet of the Lower german. Of the same place was Gerard signor of Assendelf, who was Precedent of Holland, of an honourable house, very learned in Greek and Latin, and an excellent Poet, and his son Nicholas of Assendelf very learned also. In like sort Hippolytus of Persin Precedent of the Province of Vtrecht was borne there, with Splinter Hargene Siegnior of Oosterwyck, and Arnold Knebel, who was treasurer for the Estates of Holland, and his brother Philip councillor of the privy council at Bresselles, all men of great knowledge. Half a league from the Hage in our time was a goodly abbey of Religious Noblewomen of the order of Saint Bernard, called Losdune, whereas is yet to be seen in the Church of the said abbey which hath been quite ruined by these last furious wars) the tomb of the Lady Marguerite of Holland Countess of Hausberge, with her Epitaph both in Latin & Dutch, set there by reason of her strange & miraculous delivery of three hundred sixty and four children at one birth, whereof Erasmus Roterodamus, johannes Lodovicus Vives and many other famous Authors make mention in their writings, the which I forbear to relate being set down at large in the History of the Netherlands. An example of the like childbirth is to be found in the Annals of Brunswyck▪ with whom Albertus Crantzius, Historiographer to Ernestus Prince of Anha●t doth accord in his Commentaries of Vandalia, who writes that seven and thirty years after the said childbirth, the like happened to the Lady Marguerite daughter to the Earl of Holstein, the which were all baptised. Martin Cromer in his Chronicle of Poland writes that in Cracovia in the year 1269. the wife of the Earl Buboslas was delivered of six and thirty children all living, the which is against all the rules of Physic and natural Philosophy; yea against the course of nature itself, yet there is no rule but hath some exception, whereas the grace or divine vengeance interposeth itself, the which overrules Nature and the force of the Elements. VLAERDINGHE. ALthough this be but a Borroughe at this day yet it is put in the first rank of all the walled towns of Holland, the river of Meuse (upon whose banks it stands) having in a manner eaten it up with the castle, and by great tempests driven it into the sea. Thierry of Wasenare doth maintain that it ought be called Verdinge, by reason of the tolle which doth yet belong unto the Lords of Wassenare, where they did bargain as well as they could, it is two leagues distant as well from Delfe as Rotterdam. SEVENBERGHE. THis town is seated upon the river of M●ruve, three leagues beneath Gheertruydenberghe, and as much from Breda. The town lies open; it is small, but reasonable good, where there was a mighty fort during all the time of the last troubles, the which was held by a garrison for the united Estates: It belongs now to the Earl of Aremberghe, who hath liberty from the Estates, that paying contribution, it shall remaineneuter, as it hath done. All the above named towns although they be not so great as those of Brabant and Flanders, yet they are not much inferior, being for the most part greater by the half, stronger and better peopled than they were thirty years since: so as they which have not been there since, especially in Amsterdam, will not know it. Of all these towns there are five which should be held for Bourroughs, whereof we will presently speak some thing: that is to say, the Hage, (which deserves well the name of a town) Vlaerdinghe, Sevenbergh, Muyden and Voorn: yet there is an other town not walled in, called. GOEREE. WHich I find to be the last of the towns of Holland, it is situated in a little Island inhabited for the most part by fishermen, and makers of nets, which is their greatest labour and traffic: it hath as good and as deep a road as any is in Holland, where as great ships which go long voyages cast anchor, attending their last provision, and a good wind. This place hath of late years been spoiled by the garrisons of Would and Hulst, as also Hellevooet-sluys, opposite unto it, which is the Sluse of the Island of Voorn on that side towards the sea, whereas Bryle lies on the other side upon the gulf of the river, which they call the old Meuse. BEVERWYCK. THis word is as much to say as a retreat for Ba●arians for it seemeth that the Kings of France having subdued Holland, did divide the inheritances of the country amongst their old soldiers, whether they should retire themselves and inhabit, the which they did distribute by nations. This Bourg is two leagues from Harlem, upon the river of Tie, not above two thousand paces distant from the sea; it is well built and hath goodly farms about it. The Noblest of all Borroughes and Villages ending in wick, is Calwyck, whereof there are two, the one upon the sea, and the other farther up into the country: which have been built by the Cats, fathers to the Battavians or Hollanders, who following their Prince, Batto, went and seated themselves near unto the gulf whereas the Rhine dischargeth itself into the sea: which place by reason of the commodity of the situation, hath been heretofore ample, spacious and very fit to receive ships and merchandise, but divers times destroyed and ruined by the incursions of Barbarians and Pirates. Besides there is Suydwyck near to Wassenare, where there is a Mil upon the South side, the which by abbreviation they call Suyck: then there is Noortwyck on the North side, to the which it seems that the Normans which came out of Denmark and Suedland gave the name, whereof that worthy man janus Douza was Lord, and left it to his children. Then have you Osterwyck, which some hold was inhabited by the Vandals or Esterlings, unless that ●oppo Lord of Arckel gave it the name of Esterwyck. Then is there Naeldwycke, whereof the Lords of the direct line are dead, and now it belongs unto the Earl of Arembergh, where there is a canonry; Martin van Dorp a great divine and a Poet was borne there. After it is Riswyck near unto the Hage; Stolwyck famous for the good cheese which is made there near unto Goude: Bleyswyck belonging unto the Siegnior of Bronckhurst: Brerdwyck, being so called of the Bards, Gauls, or of the Lombard's a people of Germany: Brandwyck, Schalcwyck and Hontwyck, whereof it were hard to write the etymologies & beginnings. NIEUPORT. IS on the other bank of the river of Leck, right against Schoonhoven: It hath been in former times a good town, but as the condition of humane things is frail and transitory, it seems that the spoils of Barbarous nations, & the intestine wars which they have had in Holland hath brought it to decay, yet it is still a good Borough. SCAGE. IT is a good Bourg, well built like unto a town the market place is made of a triangle form, and goes into three streets, where there are little passages from the one to the other. It hath the best & most fruitful soil of all Holland, both for tillage and pasture; the Burghers are very rich. There is a goodly castle, all which belongs unto the Siegnior of Scagen and Barchom, who descends from Duke Albertus of Bavaria Earl of Holland. It were an infinite thing to describe the other Bourgs and Villages of the said county, the which we will omit and speak something of the castles; as well of those which have been ruined during the factions of the Hoocs & Cabillaux, as of the rest which are yet standing. Among those which are ruined are the castles of Brederode, half a league from Harlem, and of Egmont, being 5000. paces from Alcmar: It was first ruined long since, and afterwards in the last troubles, in revenge that the Earl of Egmont the father, left the Noblemen of the Netherlands, who had entered into league against the Duke of Alva, the which cost him his head, and for that the sons (in steed of revenging the ignominious death of their father) followed the Spaniards party. Then is the castle of Teylingen, where as the Countess jaqueline took great delight, betwixt Leyden and Harlem, ruined also near unto the walls, but it might be easily repaired. On the other side of the town of Schoonhoven, is the great and mighty castle of Lysfeldt, near unto the banks of the river of Leck, belonging unto the Duke of Brunswyck, if of late years he had not exchanged it together with the town of Woerden, with Philippe Earl of Hohenlo. At Vianen there is also a fair castle belonging to the Lord of Brederode as we have said, with that of Ameden, which is betwixt Viane and Nieuport, on the same side. We have heretofore made mention of the castles of Woerden, Goude, Gorchom, Medenblyke and Muyden. There is near unto the town of Alcmar the castle of Assenburg, which is the place of the Lord of Assendelf, who hath an other castle near unto Rotterdam, called Hemingen. The castle of Abcoude is one of the Noblest and most ancient, betwixt Leyden and Vtrecht; there is a remainder of a little castle near unto Hemskerke, seated upon a hill, with four towers, the which for the height doth some times serve as a sea-mark unto Mariners. Those of the house of Adrichom had a castle near unto Beverwyke, which the Frisons did raze and ruin; with the ruins whereof the Siegnior Antony Ʋander B●rcht heir of that place by his mother, hath caused a house and a farm to be built there, all walled about. The old castle of Riviere near unto Schiedam, as we have said, doth belong unto the Siegniors of mateness. After it is Kenebourg belonging unto james of Egmont van Merensteyn, or to his heirs. Then Mereburg to the Siegnior of Lochorst: and the castle of Duyven near unto Sevenhuysen to the Siegnior of Sprangen. There was near unto the Hage not far from Voorburg a castle called Elin, at this present wholly ruined. The ruins of the castle and temple of Hildegarde, within a league of Rotterdam are yet to be seen upon a high eminent place, whereas in old time there kept one Hildegarde a kind of Sibille or divine, whose Oracles did represent the times which we have now seen in Holland▪ There yet remains a tower all tattered, the ground of which castle is the inheritance of the house of mateness. Within the compass of the walls of Rotterdam there is to be seen the ruins of Bulgestein, and of the castle of Veen which they call Thoff, that is to say the Court, so as the gate which is set in that place, is called the Hoff-port. You may see upon the river of Schye the remainders of the castle of Sterr●burg the which belongs unto the signory of Duyvenvorde, there was also in former times an old castle in the village of Capelle, whereof the ruins are yet to be seen; it comes from the house of Naeldwycke, and doth now belong to the Earls of Aremberghe. The castle of Hodenpyle in the jurisdiction of Vlaerdinghe, is quite down. The like hath happened to the castle of Polanen, the which did belong unto one of the noblest families of Holland: All these ruins happened during their cursed factions of Hoecks & Cabillaux, whereof these Noblemen were the chief supporters, taking a devilish delight to ruin one an others houses, yea in towns the strongest factions of the Burghers chase away the others which factions continued not much less than two hundred years. The castle of Velsen, for that Gerarde van Velsen Knight had murdered Floris the fifth Earl of Holland was in like manner ruined, nothing remaining but certain old pieces of walls, the ground whereof belongs unto the heirs of janus Douza Siegnior of Nortwyck: nereunto which ruins Adrian Groeneveen a rich Bourger of Harlem hath built a fair house with large ditches, almost like unto a castle▪ Sandenburg which was a castle of the Earls of Holland, (after that the Court had been transported from Gravesandt to the Hage, by Count William King of romans) was also ruined, and so remains. The like happened to the castle of Zyle, in old time called Thoff van Zyle. The castle Ter Does had been also ruined, but within these fourteen or fifteen years it hath been repaired. Altena (that is to say, to near) so called for that it was feared by them of Delfe, by reason of the fort, being neighbour unto them, belongs to them of Almond: Croeswyck on the other side of the river of Rotter; and Croelinghen half a quarter of a league from Rotterdam are also ruined, but if the signor of Croelinghen had a good purse, it should be soon repaired. Lovestin right against Worcom, and Henselaers-Dyck near unto Naeld-Wyck are yet in being. Of the Nobility of Holland. I Will content myself with that which divers Authors have written touching Nobility, how it is purchased and maintained, what the duty is, and wherein true Nobility consists: who desires to be instructed, let him read Adrianus junius in his Battavia, in the chapter De Nobilitate Batavica, But I will here relate succinctly what the ancient Nobility of Holland was, how it came to decline, and what hath remained. The ancient Nobility of Battavia or Holland, took their greatest exercises in Arms, by the which they sought the degrees of honour, for as Tacitus saith. Vt Gallos pro libertate, Germanos pro praeda, ita Batauos pro gloria ad capessendam pugnam olim fuisse instigatos. As the Gauls for liberty, the Germans for prey, so the Battavians were in old time provoked to enter battle for the desire of glory. They were most commonly the best mounted, and had the fairest and most resolute troops of horse, that served under the Roman Emperors. After that Holland had a particular Prince, beginning with Thierry of Aquitane their first Earl, the Nobility of Holland began to show themselves, so they grew to have many great and worthy families, & a great number of gentlemen, who had purchased their nobility, either from their Ancestors, or by their own virtues and prowess. But I cannot but lament, that so many great, noble, rich and mighty families, are now extinct, as well by their intestine wars against the Frisons, as against strangers; for which consideration the heirs males failing, the successions fell to the women, and so came to other families: besides the fury of Gerard van Velsen had many companions, all which were put to death, and their nearest kinsmen pursued to the death, even unto the ninth degree (a most cruel revenge) and such as could escape, were forced to become vagabonds in foreign countries, such as had hidden themselves until this furious revenge was past, were afterwards forced to take borrowed names of other families, and to leave their own. To come then to that which remains, and to those which are past. We will say that the house of Wassenare (as we have said elsewhere) was the most ancient of Holland: as it appears by this common proverb Vassenare the most ancient; Brederode the most noble (for that they descend from the first Earls) and Egmond the most rich. We have scene in this last age, john of Wasenare, the subduer of the Frisons, a brave and valiant Knight, who was slain in those wars leaving one only daughter and heir, married to the Earl of Lingue, whereby this family and surname is extinct. The memory of the house of Brederode may easily be found in the Annals of Holland, being come from Ziphard the second son of Arnulph the third Earl of Holland and Zealand, who to avoid his father's wrath, retired into Freezeland, and there without his privity he married the Potestats daughter of the country, by whom he had two sons, Thierry and Simon: Being afterwards reconciled to his Father, he had certain land allotted him for his portion, which was measured by the great rod, the which in the country language is Brederode, f●om whence they took their name. His father gave him also the Castle and Territory of Theylingen; the which Zyphard at his death disposed to his two sons; to Thierry he gave Brederode and to Simon Teylingen, from whence are issued the two families of Brederode and Teylinge, the which ended by the death of two brethren, who were slain with their Prince William King of Romans in the war against the Frisons. As for that of Brederode we have seen four brethren of the right line die also in the wars against the French in few years, so as it fell by a collateral line unto Walraven Lord of the said Brederode, Vianen, Ameyden, etc. who having not any children, and not likely to have any by reason of his age and his wives; all must return to Floris of Brederode his Brother's son, who may raise up the house being now half extinct. The beginning of the house of Egmont is doubtful, for the Lords thereof cannot truly show a continuance of their descent for three hundred years: yet they say they are issued from Radbod (I know not which) King of the Frisons, but I think it would be a tedious thing to find out this pedigree. Such as contradict it say, that they are descended from a Receiver of the abbey of Egmond, which Office had been called Aduoe, and under this title having enriched themselves with the goods of this abbey, by little and little they attained to great wealth, and thereby to great alliances, which have augmented their house, as well in possessions, as degrees of honour, so as in the end they married a daughter of the famous house of Arckel, the which was heir to the Duchy of Geldres: Whereas Arnold of Egmond the first Duke of that house, had one son called Adolph, who did much trouble his father, yea he detained him in prison, until that Charles Duke of Bourgogne set him free. Adolph retiring into France, married a Lady of the house of Bourbon, who having one son named Charles▪ he was afterwards slain being General of the Ganthois before Tournay: After whose death the Emperor Charles the fifth under colour of some transport which he pretended, that Duke Arnold had made unto duke Charles of Bourgogne being in dislike with his son, he seized upon the whole Duchy: but Charles of Egmond, son to Prince Adolph (for he was never Duke) with the help of the Princes of the house of Bourbon, who stirred up the French King, returning into his Country he was received and acknowledged for Duke in many towns, & the Emperor's men chased away. Afterwards (being of a turbulent spirit) he had great wars, so as in the end he died, about the year 1536. without any children, and in him failed the distrect line of this house of Egmond: The Seignieury of Egmond falling to the younger house who was father to john the first Earl of Egmond, which john had one brother Maximlian of Egmond, Earl of Buren, Lord of Iselsteine, whose daughter being issued of a Lady of the house of Launoy and the only heir, married with William of Nassau Prince of Orange, so as the possessions of these two houses of Buren and Launoy are descended to Prince Philip eldest son to the deceased Prince of Orange, as well by his grandfather, as by his father. Some do account next among the most ancient and Noble families, that of Ʋander Merwue as descended from Merovee King of France, in honour of whom some believe that in that place the river of Wahall was changed into Meruwe: but this Original is far fetched: There is yet some remainder of a Tower in the midst of Meruve, which in old time was the place where they paid toll, the which is now received in Dordrect, whereas the Baron of Meruve, who is also Lord of Aspren, hath one day in the year all right of superiority and power to pardon murders and all other offences. The house of Arckel did for a long time command insolently in the Earldom of Teysterbandt, betwixt the Wahal and the Leck, the which the river of Linge doth cross, and passing through Gorichom it falls into the Meruve. In this County there are many other Towns than Gorichom with the Castle; as Leerdam, Henkelom, Haerstricht, Aspren, Euersteyn, Hagesteyn, and Gasprien, whereof the three last and Haarstrecht have been burnt and ruined: It seems that all the neighbour Princes have conspired against this house for their great pride: For Frederick Bishop of Vtrecht having taken Gasprens, Hagestein and Euersteyn, he ruined them quite. The Lord of Vianen wrested Rhynstein from him. Arnold Duke of Geldres took Leerdam and Steenvoerd. Albert Duke Bavaria Earl of Holland took Haestrecht from him and ruined it. Afterwards the said Duke bought of john the last Lord of so many towns, and Seigieuries, that of Gorichom, with consent of his son, and under his hand writing, who notwithstanding soon after disavowed the contract, the which he broke after his father's death, and found means to surprise the said town. The Countess jaqueline went thither with an army, besieged it, and took it by assault, whereas the said young Lord received the reward of his disloyalty, for he was slain there: These Lords of Arckel were so mighty, as besides the County of Teysterband (in the which are the towns above mentioned) they had living in Brabant, Lembourg, Bar, Vtrecht, Geldre, Holland and Zealand, which possessions made them proud, arrogant & hateful unto their neighbours, over whom they did insult, until they came to the end which we have spoken of. The house of Batenbourg is without all question one of the most ancient: taking their name from Prince Batto, from whom Battavia is come whereof there were of great fame for their virtue some five hundred years since, Albert, Rodolphus and Thierry Lords of Battenbourg, as of late Thierry, G●sbercht, and William, who being Lieutenant to the Prince of Orange, leading an army to victual Harlem, besieged by the Duke of Alva, was defeated by the Spaniards: This Town of Battenbourg was afterwards burnt, and the Castle held long by the Spaniards. The said Ghisbrecht had besides William three other sons, whereof one was traitorously slain at Collogne, Ghisbrecht and Thierry being taken prisoners in the War by the Earl of Arembergh, he delivered them to the Duke of Alva, who caused their heads to be cut off at Brussels, with other Gentlemen of their religion: But it was not long before this Earl received his due punishment, for before a year passed he was slain in Battle in the same Country where he falsified his faith to these two young Barons. The race of the Lords of Harlem is also very ancient, and noble, who they say took their beginning from the Kings of Freezeland, which had built the Castle of Harlem according to their name in the year a thousand six hundred. The ruins of this Castle are yet to be seen not far from Hemskerke. It appears by the Annals of Holland that one Isbrandt of the house of Harlem, did accompany the Lady Sophia Princess of Holland, and Prince Otto her youngest son in a Pilgrimage which they made through devotion unto jerusalem. Some Knights of this house unfortunate in the war against the Frisons, have lost their lives there. Of this house was Simon of Harlem knight, who converted a fair house which he had within the walls of the town, into a Cloister of Carmelites, in the year 1249. Of which house by changing of the name, they of the house of Assendelfe have obtained the inheritance and the Arms unto this day. Nicholas Lord of Assendelfe was wont to say, that his father having built the Castle of Assenburch, had repent him a hundred times that he had not set it upon the ruins of the Castle of Harlem, to preserve the honour of antiquity. This house of Assendelfe takes his name from the Village which is richer, the which in ancient time (as at appears by old Charters) was called As●maundelfe. Cralinghen or rather Carolinghen, is said to have had their beginning from the Emperor Charl maigne: for the French had for a long time caused a part of Germany and Gaul to be governed by them of Meruwe and Craelingen, which are two noble families, and very famous in Holland. We read that the house of Heusden (where there is a town and Castle) is issued some eight hundred years since from the Earls of Cleves, having carried the arms as well of Edmond King of England whose daughter Baldwin Lord of Heusden stole away and married her, who having many children by her, would have his nephews to carry a wheel of Geules in a field Or. The reason was that when as the King of England's servants sent to seek his daughter, came to the Lord of Heusdins, they found her spinning at the wheel, with some pretty children about her, which brought her into favour again. Since the year 1290. the Earl of Cleves resigned all the interest he had to the Lordships of Heusden and Altena, to Floris the sixth Earl of Holland to hold them of him in fee; but this resignation did not hold long; for the Duke of Brabant came and fell upon Heusden, and became master of it, but he held it as little, for Count William of Bavaria) being a mediator betwixt the duke of Brabant & the Earl of Flanders) dealt first for himself in such sort, as he should have Heusden the which hath been annexed to this day to the conty of Holland. Those of Duyvenuoorde are issued from the house of Wassenare. This word having taking his beginning, for that two brethren of the house of Wassenare being a fishing, the elder to cause the boat to advance, said to his younger Brother Dole Voort, that is to say, advance, which word as a good presage, remained to the younger house, whereof are come by corruption of the word, the Siegnior of Duyvenvoort. This name was first given to Philippe the second son of Aldewyn Vicont of Leyden Lord of Wassenare and of Rhinlandt, who also gave him liberty to carry his arms, which were three Croisants. Or in a field Sables. Philippe Curate of Wassenare doth report it somewhat otherwise: he saith this Philippe had five sons, whereof the eldest being heir of the name and arms, was called Thierry, the second Philippe signor of Duyvenvoorde: the third john Lord of Polanen, who carried in a field Argent three Croissants Sables: the fourth called Sandthorst who remained unknown, and the fifth Arnold of Groenevelt, who carried Sinople, and the Croisants silver: of which house the signor Arnold of Groenevelt is yet living, being Colonel and Governor of Nymegen for the united Estates. In the year 1353. William of Duyvenvoorde signor of Osterhout was so rich as he knew no end of his wealth, who having no children, he would not make his kinsfolks partakers thereof, but did build two Monasteries or Cloisters, near unto Gheertruydenberghe, the one of Chartreux Monks, the other of Saint Clare. And not content with this prodigality of his wealth, he caused a castle to be built at Osterhout, & made the town of Viane to be walled in and dicht, as appears by his Epitaphe at Brussels. The house of Polanen (as we have even now said) is issued from that of Duyvenvoorde, but it was of small continuance: for john Lord of Polanen having left one only son called also john, he died without any heirs male, leaving one daughter, the sole heir of Polanen, of Lecce and of Breda, the which she brought in marriage to Engelbert Earl of Nassau, who was the first Governor of the Netherlands for the Lady Mary Duchess of Bourgogne, so as the said Siegneuries do at this day belong unto the children of William of Nassau Prince of Orange. That of Naeldwyck was not of much longer continuance, whereof we find that one Baldwin a Knight, Governor of the castle of Windenesse in Westfrisland, a league from Horn, carried himself valiantly, until that for want of victuals and all other necessary provision, he was forced to yield up the place. Those of that house converted their goodly castle of Wateringhe into a Monastery, which was ruined in these last wars. I will make but one house of those of Would and of Warmont, for that the Siegnor of Would took more delight at Warmont, which stands in a good air and in a goodly country, then in the castle of Would which stands in a Moor, so as the castle of Would being neglected it fell to decay, and that of Warmont flourished. This house of Warmont was wont to bear in a field Or three Lozenges Geules, until that Thierry of Wassenare, Vicont of Leyden, giving the possession of certain Lands in the year of our Lord 1359. to james the fourteenth Lord of Warmont, he suffered him to carry his own Arms, which is a band Or upon a field Azure betwixt three Croisants Argent, which that house carries unto this day. But those of that house being partakers of the fury of Gerard van Velsen, the murderer of Count Floris the fifth, they were for the safeguard of their lives forced to abandon the country. But some five years after the death of Cont john the son of Floris, john of Henaut being Earl of Holland, to whom james Lord of Warmont did great service at the defeat of the Bishop of Vtrecht, all injuries being trodden under foot, this house was reconciled to their Prince, and so have continued in good Estate unto this day. Those of Poelgeest are also of a famous race the which in old time had a castle of the same name in the quarter of Oestgeest, the village whereof was called Kerkwerve, the which by changing of the name, is now called Alcmada, I know not by what title. Cont William King of romans gave the Lordship of Hoochmade to this house: as also an other William Earl of Holland and Henaut, gave them the village of Coudekerke upon the Rhine, a League from Leyden, where there was a mighty castle, the which was razed by the factions in the year 1489. It was before called Horn, whereof the proprietaries were called Lords of Horn; whose memory lies buried with their persons; Gerard of Poelgest a Knight did afterwards cause this ruined castle to be repaired, (with the consent of the Emperor Charles the fifth) as fair as ever: who died to soon for his children. The castle of Alcmada, from the which they of the house take their name, is situated in the jurisdiction of Warmond, whereof the ruins are yet to be seen: for that which is now called Alcmada standing upon the current of Marne, was wont to be called Poelgeest, as appears by the letters of Thierry Vicont of Leyden, saying that he had given the inheritance thereof to Isbrandt of Poelgeest. We find that Henry of Poelgeest and Floris of Alcmada brethren by the mother, lived in the year 1320. Those of Culembourg are descended from that Noble and famous Lord Ralph of Bosicom, of the race of the Earls of Teysterbandt: The town of Culembourg is reasonable good, standing upon the river of L●ck, two leagues from Viane, and one from Buren, it is now erected to an Earldom, belonging to the Lord of Palant. Abcoude was wont to be a famous and mighty family, the which had great possessions in the diocese of Vtrecht: the town and castle of Wyckter Duers●ede, did also belong unto them, the Lord whereof did build the castle of Abcoude in the Moors, midway betwixt Vtrecht and Amsterdam. One Ghisbert of Abcoude did purchase the Lordship of Gaesbecke, who gave it to his youngest son Asueres, who married a daughter of the Earl of Lygnes, by whom he had one son called james, very rich and mighty in possessions, for being Lord of Gaesbeck, he was Siegnior of Abcoude, Putten and Streven, all which are goodly Signeuries, having jurisdictions. It was he which founded the Chartreux near unto Vtrecht, who since, after the death of his son & only heir, being taken prisoner in battle by the Bishop of Vtrecht, was to redeem his liberty forced to yield him the Lordship, town and castle of wick (where since the bishops have kept their ordinary residence,) and the castle of Abcoude: which since hath been the abode of one of the Marshals of the Diocese of Vtrecht, and of his guard, which is there in garrison. The house of Persin is also an honourable family from the which are issued many Knights & gentlemen of Waterlandt and the I'll of Mark, right against Monikendam. It is at this time wholly extinct. The castle of Persin is yet standing without the wood at the Hage. The house of Raphorst is noble and very ancient whereof it appears that two brethren had been slain with their Prince Cont Floris, in the war against the Frisons. That of mateness hath in like manner with many others taken their beginning from the Lord of Wassenare, Vicont of Leyden. The house of Vlyet was in old time banished not as guilty of the murder of Cont Floris, but in hatred of his brother the Siegnior of Woerden, one of the chief conspirators, so as Gerard van Vlyet going into exile was dispossessed of his lands & degraded of his arms. But afterwards by the intercession of the Lords of Duyvenvoorde and Li●htenberg (for his valour showed in battle for the Earl of Holland, where the bishop of Vtrecht was slain) he was received into grace, and restored to the possession of all his goods. The honours which the houses of Woerden & Wesson were accustomed to have, were lost in the persons, of Herman van Woerden for the murder of Cont Floris, whereof Gerard being the first author & executioner, was cruelly executed, being rolled up & down in a pipe full of nails in the town of Leyden, where he died miserably; Herman his father in law, being brother to the Lord of Amstel, escaped, and died poor in exile. The house of Amstel was also blemished with this murder, namely Ghysbrecht of Amstel, Lord of Amsterdam, Amsterweel and Iselsteyn, who died in exile, poor and miserable, being dispossessed of half his goods, and the rest remaining to his wife & son Arnold, who were besieged a whole year in the town of Amsterdam, and were in the end forced to yield it, upon condition that for all their goods they should content themselves with the town & castle of Iselsteyn, which since came unto the house of Egmond, whereof the Emperor Maximilian the first created Frederic of Egmond first Earl of Iselsteyn & of Leerdam. john of Henaut Earl of Holland had given the signeuries of Amstell & Woerden to his brother Guy then Provost & afterwards bishop of Vtrecht, during his life, the which he caused to be built, but after his death they were annexed again to the revenues of the Earl of Holland, which then was Cont William surnamed the good. The signiors of Schagen are descended from a bastard of Duke Albert of Bavaria Earl of Holland and Henaut, who gave this goodly Siegneury with that of Burchorne to William the first Lord of Schagen, and from him successively to him that is now under the Estates of Holland. So the Signiory of Hoocht-wood, came from Duke William of Bavariae, called the mad Earl (for that after two battles which he had against the Empress Marguerite his mother, whereof he lost one with eight thousand men near ●o Vlaerdingen, and the other he won, he was distracted of his wits fifteen years, and as a mad man was kept close unto his death) to whom Duke Albert his brother succeeded. This William gave unto his base Son the possession of Hochtwoude and Aertswoude, which are two goodly villages. But this line failing, these two places have passed from one to an other; Hochtwoude belonging at this day to Cornellis Mirop Receiver general of Holland and Westfrisland, signor of Caelslagen, Sweiten etc. The house of Haemstede did begin at Wit who was the first Lord, and bastard to Cont Floris. That of Horst is of great antiquity, the which seems to have had many branches, as that of Bronckhorst in Gelder's; that of Lochorst in the country of Vtrecht, and that of Raphorst, whereof the old castle is yet standing betwixt the Hage and Leyden: then Bockhorst twice or thrice ruined, being a league from Nortwyck, but not in that estate it hath been. The family of Dune is also very ancient, the only daughter and heir whereof, married some thirty years since to Thierry the second son of the Lord of Brederode, who left the title thereof to his children, yet carrying the arms of Brederode and not their mothers: It continues still in that race, who do also enjoy the signory of Sprangen which came by marriage from them of Wyelsteyn. The house of Zyle have taken their name from a castle standing upon the bank of the current Zyle, which falls into a Lake thereby, so as there is yet in the town of Leyden the Court of Zyle, the port and bridge of Zyle: Gerard van Zyle a Knight, Siegnior of Purmerende and of Purmerla●dt, hath made this house very famous by his virtues. That of Hattinghen is one of the most ancient races in Holland, whereof histories make mention above seven hundred years past. Among others they make mention of one Hasting a Duke or Captain General of the Normans who in the year eight hundred sixty eight should have entered into the mouth of the River of Loire, and overrun a part of Britain, Anjou, Turene, and Poittou, who having defeated Robert and ranulph, French Captains that pursued him, and were slain in battle, he brought his army (being laden with spoils) bravely back unto his ships. There have been in Holland many abbeys, and Monasteries, both of men and women, founded by the Nobility of the country, besides Covents of begging Friars or Bribers, which we will omit; and treat succinctly of those which were appointed for Noble persons. First Thierry of Acquitane, the first Earl of Holland founded one all of wood for women: the which his son caused to be built of stone for Monks, and be made an abbey near unto the Village of Egmond (whereof the Abbot did afterwards wear a Mitre) enriched with great revenues, which made both the Abbot and his Monks too idle. And seeing we are discoursing of this abbey, I must by the way deliver a trick which this Abbot played in the year 1565. with the Earl of Egmond: The Prince of Orange, the Earl of Horn and the Baron of Brederode went with the Earl of Egmont to dine in this abbey, where they were very honourably entertained, when as they should wash, my Lord Abbot (who was but a Monk) took these three Noble men by the hands to wash: The Earl of Egmond coming to present himself, the Abbot said unto him; No, for you are my Vassal, it becomes you not to wash with your better, yea he offered to put the towel upon his shoulder, to give it unto the other Noblemen, when they had washed, whereat the Earl of Egmond was much discontented, and went away cursing the Monk. One of the Abbot's servants, who was then present, reported it unto me for a very truth. Without doubt it was a great affront unto this Earl, who was proud and high minded, valuing himself more than the Prince of Orange, who was issued from the race of the Emperors, by the Emperor Adolph of Nassau. There were four abbeys for women, into the which not any one might be received, that was not Nobly borne, or at the least that had not their Arms quartered. These were Rhinsburg; Conninxsfieldt, Levenhorst and Losdunen: this last in the end had little respect of Nobility, receiving as well the children of Merchants as of Gentlemen, for that it was none of the richest: Rhinsburg took the name of a Castle which was situated upon the Rhine near unto the Gulf: It was pleasantly seated, & a very commodious building. There is this thing memorable, that the Lady Elburg the Abbess, caused a quarter of a lodging to be built for strangers that should come to see it. Upon the Front whereof there were two Latin verses, made by Doctor Adrianus junius, showing the date of the time. NoBILItas prob ItasqVe IsthVC sIbI IVre LegVnto HospItIV M ElbVrgIs dVLCES qVod feCIt ad VsVs. Nobility & Worth MaDe ChoICe to rest, In ELburg as a place for pLeasure best. THis abbey was founded by the Lady Petronel Sister to the Emperor Lothaire; wife to Floris the second Earl of Holland, the which was quite ruined by the soldiers in the first troubles. Levenhorst was but a League from Rhynsbourg, and fifteen hundred paces from Noortwick, in a very pleasant seat: whereof Arnold of Sassenheim was founder, who spent largely as well in the foundation of this Cloister as in an other religious house in Harlem, which was about the year 1262. Coninx-Feldt, signifies a royal field, founded by the Lady Richlan●t, Sister to William King of romans, in the suburbs of Delft. But in the beginning of these wars, for that it was too near the Town, fearing some surprise, it was purposely set on fire, which did consume it unto the foundation. Losdunen is two miles from the Hage, whereas there are yet to be seen the two Basins in the which the three hundred sixty four children of the Lady Marguerits countess of Henesberg were baptised, with her Tomb and Epitaph. This abbey hath felt the fruits of war with the rest, whereof we have made mention in the description of the Hage. Behold what we could say briefly of these abbeys, omitting so many other Cloisters, Monasteries and religious houses, who have all tried the like fortune.: And so we will make an end of the description of Holland (in the which is also comprehended Westfreezeland, which they call Northolland) to come unto Zealand. But first I may not forget that remarkable Antiquity, which is near unto Catwicke the Arsenal of the romans, which some say had been built by the Emperor Caligula, whereas he prepared to pass into great Britain with his army. But having advanced nothing but only put forth to sea, he returned suddenly, and went to land, commanding all his Soldiers by thesound of Trumpets and Drums, to fill all their headpieces with cockleshelles which they gathered upon the sands, and to carry them unto the Capitol, in sign of triumph, and as a trophy that he had beaten the Sea. Which Arsenal (whether that he built it or not) was afterwards called the British fort or Castle, from whence there was a short cut into England: And this it was. A Description of the British Fort called T'huis te Britten. THis fort in the beginning did serve as a Beacon to set a Fire in the night for the direction of Mariners that should sail upon the coast, as we see at this day the Tower D'ordre or old man near unto Bologne in Picardy, very old also, the which the Emperor Charlemaigne caused to be repaired, & so did the Emperor L. Septimius Severus this arsenal or Britten fort, whereof the memory remains yet graven in a stone, brought to the house of the Lord of Wassenare at the Hage upon whose Territory before the Inondation this fort was built, being now swallowed a good league into the sea, which is sometimes seen, when as the wind drives back the sea at their lowest ebbs, as it happened in the year, 1520. when as this stone was found with this Inscription. Imp. Caes. L. Septimius Severus Aug. Et M▪ Aurelius. Antoninus Caes. Coh. XV. Vol. Armamentarium Vetustate collapsum, restituerunt sub. Val. Pudente, Lec. Au. Pr. curante. Caecil. Batone Prae. This Arsenal was built of a square form, every corner of equal distance, that is, four hundred feet; each corner had two Towers joining together and in the midst from one corner to another a Tower all flanked with great broad stone, to resist the flowing of the Rhine, upon whose bank it was seated: some forty of these stones were digged up in the year 1552. the which were four foot long and three broad. There was also pieces of brick found a foot square, on the which were these letters X. G. I. which seems to signify Ex Germania inferiori: Moreover an other stone broken at both the ends, in which there did yet remain these imperfect words, ever. Pius. An. max. Trib. Pot. XIII. ntonin. Pius. ec. Milit. Leg. I. me. Euidiorum. There wore also Pieces of silver with this inscription, L. Septimius Severus. Pertinax. Aug. Imp. Besides there was an other stone all eaten with the waves of the sea, and winds, representing victory with wings, and on the left hand an Eagle, with these letters, Imp. Caes. Ant. ne. Aug. Coh. M. To. Ru. Pe. There were other stones, one with a ship, such as the Saxons used in those times, an other with a man's face, having a beard and long hair: an other having the figure of Hercules with his mace. Besides an other long stone broken at one end, whereas these words were comprehended. Brittanic. Germanic. Pius. Faelix. Augustus. Pont. Max. Trib. Pot. XVIII. four P. P. Imp. III. Aram. a Divo. Claudio. et. postea a diuo Severo Patre suo restitutam: In the same year 1520. there was a Key found which they did suppose was that of the Arsenal. There were also found many figures, vessels, pots, lamps and other square stones, where there was graven X. Ger. Inf. There have been also found pieces of gold, silver and Copper of julius Caesar and others. In the year one thousand five hundred sixty two, the foundations of this Arsenal were discovered above twenty days together, from whence the people thereabout drew many thousands of stones. It hath been discovered again of late years, but the sand of the sea hath buried much. Zeeland, with the Islands, Towns and Bourroughes. NO man can deny, but the Danes and Normans have overrun these Islands, as well as Holland and other farther Regions; who (as it is the custom of conquerors to impose new names to places which they have conquered, especially the names of countries and towns from whence they are come) some think have given this name of Zeelandt of one of their chief Islands so called; in the which is the royal town of Coppenhagen. But admit it were not so: and let us draw their beginning from the signification of the word itself. Zee signifying the sea, and Landt country, which is, a country of the sea, as in truth it is. There is no need then to make any further search for the Etymology, but we will content ourselves with it. The county of Zeelande which hath now more power and authority than it ever had, is for the most part comprehended in seven principal Islands, the which are Walchren where Middlebourg stands; Schoven and there is Ziricxee: Zuytbevelandt where Ter Goes is; Tertolen, where there is the town of Tolen; Noortbevelandt recovered from the Sea within these ten years: Duyvelandt and Wolfersdick: there are other small ones, whereof we make no mention. Those of Walchren and Schoven lie most open to the sea on the West part, on which side they be naturally defended with these sandy hills which they call Downs; and where there are not any, they have made good and high banks, strengthened with thick turfs and wads of straw, which bind them firmly together, the which they call dikes: True it is that the ordinary charge to repair and entertain them, is very great, and the time and toil they employ greater. But they observe a good order, with such proportion, as such as have the propriety of the land adjoining, bear the charge for the entertaining of these dikes, every one according to his portion. All the country of Zealand is fat and fertile, for all kind of Tillage, but especially for fair white wheat, and of a grain to die red, which is a rich commodity, and distributed through all Europe: There is also a certain kind of turf for firing, which they call Dary, the which they are forbidden to cut near unto the dikes, for that it is their foundation and defence. There are none but the poorer sort that use it, for that it yields a stinking smoke. There is generally as pleasant and fat pastures for cattle, as in Holland: But the better to know the whole country, we must begin to describe the islands, and the particular towns of every of them. Walachrie. IS in the country language called Walchren, the most famous and most rich of all the islands of Zealand, not for the greatness, for it hath not ten leagues circuit, but for the strength and safety of the Seat and the quality of the soil, the infinite number of people that inhabit it, their great commerce and the grea● riches, which the Sea brings unto them by their navigations: This Island hath four walled towns, Middelbourg which is the Metropolitaine of all Zealand, where the Court remains, Flissing, La Vere, Teruere, or Camp Vere, which are all one, and Arnemuyden: Doubourg is the most ancient town of Zealand, but now it is but a Bourg being covered with the sands of the sea where it is situated, yet it retains still the municipal privilege of a town, we will then begin with Middelbourg. Middelbourg. SOme attribute the beginning of this town to one Metellus a Roman Captain, who first built the Bourg, that is to say the Castle, the which is in the midst of the town, whereas now the prisons are. Of which Mettellus, by this Castle, it hath been called Metelli Burgam; and so Middelbourg in Ducth. But let us leave this definition, and say that it hath taken his name of these two words; Middel which signifies the midst, and Bourg a Castle, as much to say as a Ca●●le in the midst, as being situated (before the Sea had gotten so much on that side) in the very centre of the Island. It stands in 50. degrees ¾ of Latitude: It is but a quarter of a league from Arnemuyden, unto which it was wont to have a narrow and crooked haven, which went unto their salt pits: But within these fifty years they of Middelbourg have made a new strait haven from their port of Dam unto the Sea, the which is good and deep, able at a full sea to carry ships of 4. or 500 tons. Within these twelve years they have augmented their Town more than half round about, wherein they have done prejudice without any recompense to them that had gardens and possessions in the Suburbs: yet all this great increase serves for no other use but for houses of pleasure and gardens for Merchants, although there were place to have built above 3000. good houses, for the commodity whereof they might make many channels to pass from the one to the other: but God knows when all this void place shall be filled with buildings. The ramparts of these new works are but of earth, with mighty bulwarks flanking one another, where there is always something to repair. At the same time when as these works were made the Magistrate caused the Steeple of the abbey Church to be new built up, whereas they now keep the Court of Zealand, they have drawn a ●ell up into this steeple of eighteen thousand weight to strike the hours on, and some 24. small ones, which serve for the chime; but this steeple is fallen crooked, else it were one of the goodliest pieces in the whole country. The Court which was wont to be an abbey is fair and spacious, and is the lodging of Princes when they come into Zealand. There the Councillors of Estate for the County are established, as also for the Admiralty, the Chamber of account and the treasure. The Admiral and in a manner all the Councillors are well lodged there. This house was founded by Goudebault the three and twentieth Bishop of Vtrecht, and afterwards amplified, and in a manner built a new by Cont william King of the romans, who lies there interred with Queen Elizabeth his wife: the foundation was made in the year one thousand two hundred fifty six. The town is good of itself, fair and neat and of great traffic, which the Galleys of Spain which came to Scluse under the command of Dom Frederic Spinola restrained for a time: But since they have undertaken long voyages to the East & West Indies as well as the Hollanders, from whence they draw great commodities, & withal since the taking of the Scluse, the said galleys being fallen into the Estates handsthey are no more annoyed, neither have they any more fear on that side: this town alone hath the right of the staple for all wines that come from France, Spain, Portugal, Candy, the Canaries, & other places by sea: not many years since they purchased the Town of Arnemuyden (being then but a Bourg) in regard of their roads and the Salt-pits, the which they had good cheap from the Proprietary. But this sale was afterwards changed, as we will show in the description of the town of Arnemuyden. In this town the ordinary Sovereign judge doth commonly remain, they call him the Receiver of Beverslersheldt, to whom all commandments come from the higher powers for the execution of justice by the sword in his precinct. Many learned & excellent men were borne in this town. Among others Paul surnamed of Middelbourg a famous Mathematician, who for his great knowledge was called to Rome and presently made a Bishop. Then Nicholas Euerardi a great Lawyer, and well seen in matters of State, Precedent of the Provincial Council of Holland, and afterwards of the Parliament or great Council of Macklin, where he died in the year 1532. leaving many children, all men of quality, & worthy of such a Father. The first was Peter Nicholai, Doctor of Divinity and Civil Law, Prelate of the abbey of Middelbourg. The second was Euerardi Nicholai, a Licentiat in the laws, who was Precedent of the Council in Friesland, & afterterwardes (as the father) of the great Council at Macklin, where he died in the year 1560. The third was Nicholas Nicolai, Licentiat in the laws, & very learned in all faculties, a good Poet, & Historiographer, which advanced him ●o be Councillor to the King of Spain, and Register of the order of the golden fleece. The fourth was Adrian Nicolai, who was Chancellor of Geldres. The fifth was john Nicolai, (surnamed the second) who was an excellent Poet, giving great hope of him, but death prevented him in his course. Veer or Camp-veer. Veer or Camp-veer is a good Sea-towne, one of the four of the Island of Walchren, it retains this name of the passage it was wont to have unto the Village of Camp in the Island of Northbevelandt right against it: Which Village within these ten years with the whole Island hath been recovered from the Inondation which happened in the year one thousand five hundred twenty four. This town was in the year one thousand three hundred sixty eight walled in by the Lord of Borsell: Being since made greater, it was endowed with goodly priu●lidges, so as in the time of Maxmilian of Bourgongne their Lord, it was made a Marquisate. And for the commodity of the feat, the goodness of the haven and of the road; it was frequented by many nations. They were the first that sent unto the Canaries, from whence they brought in the year 1508. a ship laden with sugar. They have trade into France, where they have privilege of Franche grew, that is to say, free lading and unlading: In like manner into the East-countries they had liberty to traffic, before that the towns of Antwerp and Amsterdam had any trade thither: As also into Scotland; the Scotishmen having many years since held their staple there, for divers sorts of Merchandise, as they do at this day for their cloth and frizes, and for their Saltfish. This town hath also the fishing for herring whereof there is a staple, and the mark is well known in divers Kingdoms, where the Burghers traffic most, as to Spain, France and other countries, and of late years they have trade to the East & West-indieses. This town was in the old time honoured with the Residence of the Admiral General and the Admiralty of the Netherlands. To which end the King of Spain, as Prince of the said countries, caused a goodly Arsenal or Magasin for munition to be built in the year 1568. wherein they laid all their provision and furniture belonging to the sea. The Inhabitants of this town are grown civil and courteous by the daily frequentation of their Lords and their Attendants, keeping their Court within an arrow shot of the Town at the goodly castle of Sanderburg, which is quite ruined in these last troubles, as being too near a neighbour unto the town. This Marquisat was sold by decree for the debts of the said Marquis Mazimillian, which Philip King of Spain caused to be bought in his name: But when the creditors were not paid, it was sold again and bought by the Prince of Orange: who to the great contentment of the Burghers and all the subjects, received the possession in the year one thousand five hundred eighty one, giving them goodly privileges, with high and base justice in nine. Villages depending thereon: whereof Oest capel is one. By the death of which Prince, and by his Testament the most worthy Prince Maurice of Nassau Governor, Captain & Admiral general of the united Provinces his son, was left heir of the said Marquisat, and put in posssion in the year one thousand five hundred eighty eight, and in the year after of that of Flissinghe. Besides other particularities, one thing is specially to be noted, that the Magistrate of this town never showed any rigour against them of the reformed religion, yea hath always favoured and supported them as much as he might, so as in the beginning of the wars and troubles since, the year one thousand five hundred seventy two, they have with all their means both of bodies and goods, with them of Flissinghe more than any other of their neighbours, repulsed the tyranny of the Inquisition of Spain in divers exploits and enterprises of war both by Land and Sea: And especially with their brave Captains at Sea, in the beginning of the year 1578. they did before Bergen up Zoom, aid, to defeat that mighty Spanish Fleet in view of the great Commander of Castille, which went to victual Middelbourg, being straightly besieged by the Prince of Orange, so as this victualling failing them, they were forced to yield unto the Prince. Afterwards their Captains did in the like manner help to confound that fearful and invincible sea-army (as they did write it) which the King of Spain sent in the year one thousand five hundred eighty eight, to invade England. Flisinghee. OR Vlissinghen is the third town of the Island of Walchren, right against Flanders, and a league from Middelbourg. It is also a Marquisate, belonging to Prince Maurice of Nassau, as La Vere, not that they are two Marquisats, but one only, every one apart carrying divers arms. Flissinghe was in old time but a country village, and did serve only for a passage into Flanders. But within these hundred years, Adolph of Bourgongne, Lord of La Vere and Flissinghe, caused it to be walled in, and then it began to take the form of a good town. So as in the year one thousand five hundred seventy one, the Duke of Alva pretending to build a Castle on the ditch side towards Ramekins, which should also command the haven: After that the Prince of Orange Governor of Holland and Zealand, had by the Earl of March Lord of Lumay his Lieutenant surprised the Island and town of Bryel, when as the Signior of Wakenes, the Vice admiral pretended to put a Spanish garrison into the town, being favoured by the Magistrate, the people discovering it, fell to arms, forced the Arsenal, and chased away the Burguemaisters and Aldermen, and being master of the Ordinance and of the town gates, they shot at five or six ships full of Spaniards, which thought to enter into the Town, who by reason of the contrary tide, sent a man swimming to land, to entreat them that they would not sink them, promising them to retire upon the first ●●oud, as they did, going towards Berghen up Zoom, whereas they could not be entertained. This town being thus freed from the Spanish yoke, it was in a short time fortified, and in a short time with the help of the Prince of Orange (who presently sent them a garrison of Walloons) they made sharp wars with them of La Vere against Middelbourg and Arnemuyden, which were held by the Spaniards: going to Sea with their ships of war, they brought in good prizes, and many good prisoners, among others the Duke of Alva's Cousin, who notwithstanding any ransom that he offered, could not redeem himself from the gallows, so hateful the Spaniards were unto the Flessingers in the first wars, as all that they took, they either cast them overboard or hung them at land, wherein the women and children took great delight. They had an Admiral called Captain Worst, who did continually annoy them of Antwerp and Scluse, and did set upon all ships going up to Antwerp: one day he encountered a Spanish Fleets, in the which was the Duke of Medina Celi, who came to govern the Netherlands in the Duke of Alva's place. The combat was very furious near unto Scluse, but in the end the Duke was forced to leap into a boat and to save himself in Sluse. It is infinite to tell what the captains both by sea and land, that were at time in Flissinghe, did against the Spaniards. They besieged the strong castle of Ramekin, (called Zeebourg▪) both by sea and land, standing upon the Dyke betwixt Flissinghe and the head of Middelbourg, the which they took in less than ten days. At the battle of Berghen and in all other encounters the Flissinghers were always the foremost. Snce they have much enlarged their town, especially on that side where as the Duke of Alva had begun to build the castle, where there are three goodly Bulwarks, two towards the land, and one to the sea, which defends the haven on that side, flanking it at the port. In this enlargement they have drawn in a new haven and a Sluse, capable for many great ships, where they have also built a new temple for the English nation: within these twelve years they have built a fair townhouse upon the market place, not in greatness, but in building much like to that of Antwerp▪ To conclude the town, as well in fortifications, as in buildings is now so changed, as he that hath not seen it these thirty years, would not now know it. It is second to Middelbourg in merchandise, but it exceeds it in herrings, where they are barreled up, and marked, and from thence are transported throughout all Christendom. This important town (to speak truly) nay rightly be termed the Key of the Netherlands for the sea: for at all times it cuts off the navigation from Antwerp so as nothing can come unto them by sea: wherefore the Duke of Alva should have been more careful to keep it in time, and not to have esteemed it so little, as he did when the news of their revolt came unto him: answering only. Pitcilingo (so he called it) es nada. And in truth the Emperor Charles the fifth, knowing better the importance of that place then the Duke of Alva, going last out of the Netherlands to return into Spain where he died, upon his departure, he did secretly and seriously recommend this town unto the King his son. But as they say. He that contemns the father's admonitions, will be deceived, as it proved in this town. ARNEMVYDEN. OLd Arnemuyden (which was wont to be situated in an other place, not far from that where it now stands) was a goodly village with a good castle, well peopled with rich Burghers & Merchants, having a good commodious haven, whereas many great ships might lie safely, where at that time there was greater traffic than at Middelbourg itself. This old Arnemuyden is by Inundations quite eaten up by the sea, so as there are no relics to be seen, neither can they conjecture that it stood in any other place, but betwixt the haven of Middelbourg and new Arnemuyden, upon the plain which is betwixt S. Io's Lands, and the right channel of Arnemuyden, as it is at this day. The greatest breach which happened to old Arnemuyden, was in the year 1438 in the time of Gyles of Arnemuyden the Lord of that place, who caused all the Burghers and the Inhabitants to go with their families unto the Dyke out of the danger of the sea, whereas now the town of Arnemuyden stands. The which as well for the commodity of Roads and Deeps, as for the situation upon the sea, hath and doth retain unto this day, the trade of many great ships which arrive there daily laiden with divers sorts of merchandise, and from thence is transported into the other Provinces of the Netherlands, except salt coming from Spain, France and other places, the which remains there to be refined: for the which there are many salt-pannes ' built along and upon the top of the Dyke, where it is boiled and made white, and then they lad it and transport it to other places. And although that new Arnemuyden was not walled in until the year 1572. yet hath it been held of all foreign nations for a town of good esteem, by reason of the navigation and traffic; for which respect the Earls of Holland and Zeeland, did in old time establish their tolls and customs due unto the county of Zeeland. This town hath always enjoyed the like privileges with the town of Middlebourg, as Bourgeses and subjects thereof, until the year 1572. that they followed the Prince of Orange's party: Soon after the Spaniards surprised it, spoilt it, slew some and the rest fled wandering up and down, until that in the year 1574. the town of Middelbourg being forced to yield unto the Prince of Orange, Arnemuyden was also comprehended in the Accord, so as the I'll of Walchren being then freed, every man returned to his house, so as by little and little the town was fortified as you see it at this day. For the reedefying whereof the Prince gave it goodly privileges and freedoms, being exempt from the subjection of Vasselage, being subject to Middelbourg by virtue of their contract: and causing it to be walled and ditcht, he gave them the rights and prerogatives that belong to a good town, governed by their own Magistrates, Bailiff, Bourguemasters, Aldermen and other Officers, which they of Middelbourg were accustomed to choose: but now they dispose of all matters concerning justice and government themselves. The town of Arnemuyden had for many years a particular Lord, carrying the title of Siegnior of Arnemuyden; the last was called Gyles of Arnemuyden, who in the year 1418. was made Knight, and married the daughter of Wolphart van Borsselle, by whom he had two daughters, the one Mary, the other Marguerite of Arnemuyden: Mary married with Nich●las of Borssele Siegnior of Brigdame, Coudekerke, Soeteland and Saint Laurence; from whom is issued the house of La Vere. Marguerite married William of Vriese. Siegnior of Oosteinde, from whence is descended the house of Trasigny. And as the said Giles was the last Lord which carried that name, his house fell to the distaff. Those of this town for the love of him carry his arms in their seals and armouries, which they use to bear, and they are at this day two Eagles Or in a field Geules, armed and encompassed with Azure, and in the midst a sandhill rising out of the waves of the sea. DOMBOURG. ALthough this be but an open place, which is daily more and more covered with sand, notwithstanding all remedies, by reason that the wind drives the sand of the sea and downs, which covers their gardens and pastures, yet being esteemed the most ancient town of the Isle of Walchren, whereof there are yet to be seen some old ruins of walls, it retains still the ancient privileges & municipal rights, as the best town of the said Island. WEST CAPPELLE. THis place, Bourg or village, (howsoever you will call it) doth enjoy the like privileges of other towns: for that the ancient West Cappelle which stood in the same place, was wont to be a good town, and had the best port in all the Island of Walchren, which about 150. years since was carried away by the inundations of the sea, so as there remains nothing but what we see of the old buildings, having notwithstanding been enlarged with new houses within these thirty years, the which makes it more commendable. SOETELAND. IS yet at this day a good place, so termed as a sweet country, and so it is the sweetest soil and the best seat in all the Island, which makes the Merchants of Middelbourg and Flissinghe to walk thither, whereas after they have recreated themselves, they return at night to their houses. There are also in this Island many goodly villages, as Oost and West Suybourg a quarter of a league one from the other, betwixt Flissinghe and Middelbourg: At West Suybourg there is a good castle the which with the village, doth now belong unto the heirs of Phillippe de Marnix, Siegnior of Saint Aldegonde, the light of learned men of our age, in which castle the Emperor Charles the fifth remained, until the wind prooned fair to embark, to make his last return into Spain, but we may not forget the important castle of RAMMEKEN. OTherwise called Zeebourg, which about 60. years since, the Lady Mary Queen of Hungary, sister to the Emperor Charles the 5. governess of the Netherlands, caused to be built upon the Dyke betwixt Middelbourg, & Flissing, serving as a bulwark for all ships that are forced for want of a good wind, to come and anchor in the Road. This castle is always well manned with a good garrison, and with all things necessary for a place of so great importance, being as necessary to be entertained and well kept, as any other in all the united Provinces. By reason whereof, the Queen of England desired to have it with the towns of Flissinghe and Bryele for caution of the money which she did lend unto the united Estates some twenty years since. SCHOWEN. IN Latin called Schaldia, a Flvuio, Schaldi, of the river of Escault, in old time a great Island, but the tempests and breaches of the sea have wonderfully diminished it. It hath yet at this day above eight leagues in circuit: and it was in those days so near unto the Island of North-bevelandt, as the Inhabitants did talk together from one bank unto the other; whereas since there hath been a great distance. But within these twelve years that the said Island of North-bevelandt hath been recovered, they are nee●er. This Island is as fertile and plentiful of all things, as any other in Zeeland, and therefore it holds the second rank at the Estates of the said Province, in the which the sovereign judges of the East of Zeeland do commonly reside, whom they call the Receiver of Be●osterghelt▪ who hath all power of criminal causes in that quarter; the chief town whereof is. ZIRICZEE. THis town is held for the first and most ancient of the county of Zeeland, and as some say, it is found in the Annals of the Netherlands that it was built in the year of our Lord 849. by one called Zyringus, whose name it carries: in ancient time very famous for the trade of Merchandise, whereunto it was very commodious by reason of their goodly port, which the merchants did usually frequent; But the sands having in tract of time stopped up the haven, it is now less frequented: within these twelve or fourteen years the townsmen have made a new haven which goes directly unto the sea, the which is fair, large and commodious, notwithstanding since that Middelbourg grew so famous, it cannot recover the accustomed traffic touching navigation, yet is it good, fair and strong, retaining their ancient trade for salt and grain to die withal, with the fishing for herring. In this town the Receiver of Beoosterschelt doth commonly remain, who is (as I have said) chief justice for the county of Zeeland, to whom (as to him of the Beversterschelt at Middelbourg,) all commissions are directed, coming from the superiors, to put them in execution every one in his jurisdiction. In this town was borne that famous Amandus Ziricxeus, a religious man of the order of Saint Francis, who hath written many goodly Poems; as may be seen in the Library of Cornelius Gesnerus. From thence also came Levinus Lemnius Doctor of Physic, & a man of great knowledge, as his works do witness: whose son called William of the same profession was called to be Physician to the King of Sueden. Pe●rus Pe●kius was also borne in this town, a man of rare learning, who hath written many printed books. BROWERSHAVEN. IN this Island of Schoue● two small leagues from Zi●icxee, is that great Bourg of Browershaven more inhabited by fishermen then any other: and yet there was borne one Petrus, carrying the surname of his town, a learned man, who writ many books in divinity. This town did sometimes belong to Maximilian of Bourgogne, Lord of Beueren Admiral of the sea: thus having fallen unto him with many other goodly Siegneuries by the Lady Anne his Grandmother issued from the Noble house of Borssele: which family hath failed long since for want of lawful heirs; which Maximiliam died also without children in the year 1558. whose succession fell to the children of the Earl of Bossu, who had married one of the Sisters of the Lord of Beueren, and to the children of the Siegnior of Cruminghen, who had married the other Sister, from whom is issued the Siegnior of Cruminghen, who keeps commonly at the Hage in Holland. In this Island of Shouven, there are many castles and villages, belonging to certain Gentlemen and other private persons, amongst the which is the village of Bomene seated at one end of it, very famous for the great loss of Spaniards which the great Commander of Castille had entering into the said Island, the which in the end he took by force, and slew all that were in the fort, except one man who escaped dangerously, but let us pass to the other Islands. ZVYT-BEVELAND. THis Island is so called for that before it was rampared with Dykes, it trembled (for Beven signifies to tremble, and Bevelandt a trembling country) as if it had no firm seat and foundation. This Island is the greatest of all those of Zeeland, and at one time it had twenty leagues circuit: but by reason of the tempests and inundations of the sea, and the continual flowing and ebbing of the river of Escault, which runs with a violent stream betwixt Romerswael and Berghen up Zoom, it is half consumed. In this Island of Zuyt●euelandt there was in old time three towns of Mark, the chief whereof was Romerswal, than Borssele, which stood towards the South: but in the year of our Lord 1432. the Dykes were broken by the high tides and great tempests and it drowned, with the country depending thereon, which they called the Siegneury of Borssel. ROMERSWAL. HEld in that time the first rank among the towns of the said Island, looking towards Berghen up Zoom upon the East, from the which it is not above a league distant, but the same tempests and inundations (wherewith Borssele was swallowed up) divided this town from Zuytbevelandt, leaving it a part in a small Island, being forced to defend itself continually with great toil, cost and amazement, for fear of the sea and the river of Escaut, against the which they must fight continually, as a citizen of that town, a man of great knowledge doth wittily show by these verses following, which he planted at his door in the year of our Lord 1549▪ when as Prince Phillippe, (afterwards the second of that name, King of Spain) came thither to receive the oaths of the county of Zeeland, and to take possession thereof as followeth. Vidimus assueto privatum lumine solemn, pallida turbato vidimus astra die: Vidimus vndantes horrendos aequoris aestus, nos miseros Belgas, cum obruit Oceanus. Vidimus ast postquam te gloria nostra Philipe, Caesareaproles, semi-deumque decus: Cuncta refutamus transacti tristia saecli, quod praesens nostrum testificatur opus. Sit licet exiguum, sit pro ratione voluntas, nil facit ad vastum parva catena fretum. We have beheld fair Sol deprived of sight pale stars at noon, and noonday like the night: We have beheld the furious waves make way, through all the strengths of wretched Belgia. But when we but beheld that face of thine, great Philip, glorious bud of Caesar's line: It cleared our hearts from woes, our eyes from showers: witness this present monument of ours. Which be it small, our loves must be our pleas: small chains cannot o'erreach the broadest seas. GOES. WHich is otherwise called Tergoes, is the only places which is left standing on the northside, upon an arm of the Escault, called Schenge. It is now a good town, being since these last troubles much enlarged and fortified with large ramparts, and goodly bulwarks, there is reasonable good-trade, especially of grain for dyer's, wherewith the country abounds. There grows also the best wheat of all Zeeland, more than they need for their own uses, transporting the surplusage into the other Islands. Their haven is long and strait, at the mouth whereof there are two forts, one of either side, so as nothing can pass without descovery. Not far from this town is the village of Cloetinghen, belonging to the son of the deceased Floris of 〈…〉 heir apparent to all that house: a little farther off is the village of Barlandt, where that learned man Adrianus Barlandus, who hath carefully written the chronicles of Brabant, and a summary of the Earls of Holland. Then Cruyningen, Zeaetskerke, Hynckesandt, Capelle, Catten-dyke which are all villages, and many others. In this Island of Zuytbevelandt there are yet some pleasant groves and bushes fit for hunting for there are many hares found in the Island, and great store of wild foul. TOLEN. IS one of the East Islands of Zeelande, belonging to the country, it is now wholly environed with good trenches and some forts betwixt, fearing the eruptions of the Spaniards, who have twice or thrice attempted to get footing, for there is but one channel to pass upon Brabant side: It is very near the Dyke of Saint Martin, for there is but one little channel which divides them, and therefore some affirm (as it is likely) that in former times they were two Islands, although in effect it be but one, in the which are two good little towns, both well fortified with bulwarks, ramparts and counterscarps, whereof the first is called by the name of the Island. TOLEN. THis town shows the effect by the name, being the toll or custom of merchandises due unto the Prince, and now unto the Estates of the country, who choose the Officers of justice, as Bailiffs, Sheriffs and others. Saint martin's Dyke. IS a pretty town, some times belonging to Adolph of Bourgogne, Siegnior of Beuren, the which came afterwards to the house of Buren, and now belongs to Philip of Nassau, Prince of Orange, Earl of Buren by his mother. In this territory is the village of Saint Annelandt, which is as much to say, as a good Bourg, belonging also to the said Prince: joining unto it is a little Island called Philip's Landt: these are the four principal Islands with the●r towns. Noort-bevelandt. THis Island was drowned (as we have said) in the year of our Lord 1532. in which inundation there perished the towns of Coortgeen and of Cats, the villages of Campen, We'll, Emelisse, Haemste and others, being also the patrimony of the Prince of Orange, which Cont Philippe of Hohenloo his Brother in law within these ten years, by an agreement made betwixt them, hath recovered from the sea, and fortified it round about with good banks, so as at this day it is a good country both for tillage, and pasture, likely to be soon built again with goodly villages, as it was wont to be. WOLFERS-DYCK. SO called by the name of the Lord Wolphart, as much to say, as the Dick of Wolphart; it is the least of all these Islands above mentioned, in the which there are but three villages, Wolfers Dick, Sabbinghe and Hogersdyck, but there is good pasture for cattle, the Inhabitants being most given to fishing. There are moreover in Zeeland some other small Islands, which are daily recovered from the sea, rising first like banks of sand, so as seeing them thus rise by little and little and to bear grass, they send their sheep over to feed there, whereas the shepherds have little lodges, and for their cattle they make great barns or stables, where they lie dry in foul weather, and there the owners provide them haye before winter. It seems also that these Islands of Zeeland have been recovered from the sea, long before Charles Martel Duke of Brabant, father to King Pepinne of France: wherein the Danes laboured much, who in those days had continual war against the French and great Brittany: for they did choose these sand-hills, as a safe retreat for their Incursions upon the neighbour countries, which they made their Rendezvous, making it the magasin of their spoils. First they seized upon the Isle of Walchren, the which they did fortify as well as they could against the violence of the sea: before which enterprise they made many high mounts of earth as are yet to be seen, here and there, which remain unprofitable, some near unto towns, applied to the use of Gardens: unto which mounts (being any extraordinary tide) they did drive their cattle, and retired thither themselves, until the waters have fallen, and then they returned to their lodgings. These Danes or Noortmen having thus recovered the country, began to Tille it, especially after the descent of their great Captain Duke Rollo: who was head of the Norman Nation in France: But in the end the Danes being expelled out of great Britain, they were chased also out of these Islands: the which in succession of time were peopled and made civil: And so after many Accidents, revolutions & quarrels in these watery parts, in the end they were by force made subject to the Earls of Holland, being given unto them long before, & made a County by the Emperor Lewis the gentle: as the Emperor Charles the bald his father had made Holland a County and given it to Thierry the first Lord of these two Earldoms. But after that the Emperor Henry the third of that name, had given unto Baldwin Earl of Flanders, this Island of Walchrens and other small neighbour islands, there fell great wars betwixt the Flemings and the Hollanders: especially that furious battle in the year one thousand two hundred fifty three: whereas Floris brother to Cont William King of romans, and the Prince of Cleves defeated the Lady Maguerit countess of F lander near unto Walchrens before the King came, in which defeat (as histories report) there were fifty thousand Flemings slain, as many drowned, and almost as many prisoners, whom the victors entreated ignominiously, stripping them naked: among the prisoners were the two Commanders, john and Guy of Dompierre, sons to the countess Marguerite; with Thybault Earl of Guise, Geffrie Earl of Bar, and above 230. Noble men, Knights and men of account: King William being puffed up with this victory, having such prisoners, would not give ear to any conditions of peace, but such as he propounded to the countess, which she would not yield unto. But the King being slain two years after in Freezeland, a peace was made betwixt the countess and Floris Brother to the deceased King, Uncle and guardian to his son, who was Earl of Holland and Zealand, named florence the fifth. By the which peace it was said that all prisoners should be set at liberty, paying great ransoms: And that the young Cont florence should marry Beatrix Niece to the countess Marguerite, Daughter to Cont Guy her eldest son. By which Accord and marriage, the Flemings did transport and give in marriage to the said Beatrix all such rights and pretensions as they might have in the Conties of Zealand and in the Conty of Alost. But this was but a counterfeit peace, and of small continuance: for that Guy of Dompierre, being Earl of Flanders could not endure that the Earls of Holland should enjoy this Island of Walchren, but began to make war to his great dishonour and prejudice, the which could never have any end until that all th● Seigneuries of Henault, Holland, Zealand and Friesland fell to the house of Burgonne, at one instant in a m●nner with the Duchy of Brabant, under the good Duke Philip. The Estates of the conty of Zealand, which we have described, consists of the Nobility, and of the towns of the islands of Walchren, Schowen, Zuit-bevelandt, Tolen, Noort bevelandt (newly recovered from the Sea) Duyvelandt, Wolfersdick, and Phil●ipslandt; whereof Prince Maurice is Governor & Admiral general: which Estates hold their general Assembly in the town of Middelbourg, whereas commonly the college of their Deputies do reside who Assemble every day to treat and determine of all occurrents touching the Estate, or otherwise in stead of the Court of Zealand, in the said town the which was wont to be the abbey of S. Martin: At which College doth first appear by his Deputy the said Prince Maurice, in quality of Marquis of La vere, the first Gentleman of Zealand speaking for the whole Nobility of Zealand, than the Treasoror general of the country; then the Deputies of the towns of Middelbourg, Zirczee, La-Vere, Flissinghe, Tergoes & Tolen, which are the six principal towns (the rest having no voice nor access unto the said Estates) with their Recorder and Secretary. Behold wherein the Estates of Zealand consist: In that Court there doth also remain the Council or College of the Admiralty of the said Contie, consisting for the most part of the Deputies of the said Estates, with an Advocate ●scall and a Secretary in which Counsel all Sea-causes are determined. The County of Zealand hath drawn unto itself as we have said before the chamber of accounts, touching the domains, and of all the revenues proceeding as well from customs, Imposts, rents, collections and contributions, as other dependences of the receipts, concerning the whole Estate, which was wont to be entreated of and decided jointly with the Contie of Holland and Westfreezland, for which three there was but one chamber of accounts at the Hage. This Chamber of Zealand hath a Precedent, Masters, Auditors, Registers, Ushers and other Officers. The said Conty of Zealand, hath now a particular coin, established in the Court of Middelbourg, which they were not accustomed to have no more then Westfreezeland; having but one Mint thirty years since for all three in Dordrecht the capitol town of Holland, where it remained long and was much privileged during the reign of the Emperor Charles the fifth. As for their government and religion, it is all one with the united Provinces their Confederates: Ecclesiastical causes, as well for their discipline as otherwise, are referred to their Synods, whereas some Deputies of the Estates do assist. All Appellations in civil causes, be the sentences provitionall or definitive of all the Towns, Bailywiks and jurisdictions in the Conty of Zealand (Notwithstanding the Estates of this Province have sought to sequester themselves) resort to the Provincial Council at the Hage in Holland: Except they of Middelbourg, who by a special privilege have choice to appeal to the said Provincial Council or to the great Council, which is also at the Hage, like unto that at Macklyn: whereof there is but a revision before the Councillors deputed out of the united Provinces. The sentences of which revisors are held for holy and inviolable decrees. But criminal sentences are executed without Appeal, by every officer in his jurisdiction. They have also in Zealand their Dickgraves', as in Holland, which are judges, having their jurisdictions apart, with certain assistants or Sheriffs whom they call Geswooren, that is to say jurats, to hear & determine of all controversies concerning the entertainment of dikes, Sluices, large ditches, ways, floodgates; which Dickgraves' & jurats' are in the Island of Walchren, in manner of a College, the which consists of the Marquis of La Vere, or his Deputy of the towns and of the Deputies of the best proprietaries in the Island of Walchren. The like is observed in the other islands of the Conty of Zealand, every one according to his privileges. The Contie of Zutphen. THis Conty hath taken his name of the Capitol Town of the country, which is Zutphen, standing upon the right bank of the river of Issel, by the which the river of Berckel doth pass, which falls into Issell. This town before the first troubles, and that the Duke of Alva did exercise his cruelties, was rich, well traded, fair and great, with a goodly Bridge to pass towards the town of Arnhem in Geldres, the which was broken by the Spaniards, part of the town burnt, and the Inhabitants miserably entreated; which were the first fruits of the Spaniards government: Since it hath been twice or thrice taken and retaken by the one and the other party, having continued since the year one thousand five hundred ninety one, under the united Estates. Although that this town and the jurisdiction thereof be numbered for the third member or quarter of the Duchy of Geldres, it hath yet a long time been a Conty of itself, having a particular Earl, the last whereof was the Earl Gerlache, who left no other heirs but one Daughter, the which was married to Otto Earl of Nassau and of Geldres, who brought him the said Earldom of Zutphen for her Dowry: by means whereof he augmented his Domains: Since which time the said Town with the jurisdiction hath been incorporate to the Duchy of Geldres, subject to one Chancery, Government, Chamber of accounts, and making one member at the general Estates of both Countries, which as we have said before are held in the town of Arnhem: whereas they of the said Town and Contie have their Assistants and ordinary Deputies, who assist in the Assembly of the general Estates of the United Provinces, that is to say of every one of the said quarters and of the Nobility of Geldres; who change as the Estates of the Province shall think it fit. The Towns and jurisdictions of the said Contie are these which follow., after the chief Town; Doesbourg, a league and a half from thence, Dotecome, Bronckhorst, Lochom, Groll, Bredevoerd, Keppel, Bourg, Sherenbourg, which are or have been heretofore walled Towns, besides many good Villages. So as this Conty hath larger limmittes, and is richer than that of Namure: Wherefore it merits to be held, as it hath always been, and as the Emperor and King Philip have carried it in their Titles, for one of the seventeen Provinces of the Netherlandes: And at this present one of the eight united and confederate. There is in this Contie a general Officer called Drossart, which depends upon the Chancery of Arnhem: Whose jurisdiction extends chiefly to the champain country▪ who is bound to bring all Offenders to Arnhem, or to the other towns that have right to take knowledge thereof: The towns are governed by their Governors, Council and other ordinary Officers. DOESBOURG. IS an ancient Town which some call Drusiburgum, other modern writers will have it the same town which Tacitus names Asciburgum. It is seathe at the mouth of Fossa Drusiana or Drusus ditch, the which is a channel which Drusus (to keep his soldiers from idleness) made them to dig at Isseloort, drawing it out of the Rhine, and carrying it into the River of Issell at Doesbourg, the which he made to have a shorter passage to make war against the Frisons, then if he should have been forced to have gone down the river of Rhyne, and so entering into the British sea, to have compassed about all the country of the Battavians, and so to have entered into Friesland by the river of Flye. It is a good town and well peopled, the which during these wars hath not felt so many alterations as many other towns. In the year one thousand five hundred ninety eight the Admiral of Arragon Lieutenant of the Archduke Albert having taken the Town of Berck upon the Rhine, and past his army there, he resolved to besiege this town; But Prince Maurice raizing his camp out of the I'll of Geldre (which they call Gelderscheweert) he went and put himself into the said town lodging part of his troops in a little Island right against it, in the midst of the River of Issel, and the body of his army lay entrenched without the town towards the fields, whereas the Admiral thought to make his approaches, to besiege it, but finding such lets, he durst not affront the Prince, who attended him long in battle, but retired, and went to winter upon the Territory of the Empire: where he carried himself as you have heard in the history of the Netherlands. DOETECUM. THis town stands in ihe Champion country, a League from Doesbourg▪ upon the old Issel, it is a reasonable good town, with a double wall, yet none of the strongest. The Admiral of Arragon having past the Rhine to besiege Doesbourg, he went first before it, and took it by composition within three days. But the Admiral being retired, Prince Maurice went and besieged it again, the which was as easily yielded to him as to the Spaniard, remaining at this day under the obedience of the united Estates, as it had been above thirty years before, except those few days the Admiral's men held it. BRONCKHORST. IT is within a league of Zutphen, seated upon the right side of the river of Issel, erected to a Contie, having a particular Earl. The family of Bronchoorst is ancient, from the which are issued the houses of Battenbourg, Anholt, Megen and others. The town hath been much ruined during these wars: But the Castle which is of a reasonable strength) stands still, where there is a continual garrison for one party or other. LOCHEM. IS a good little town▪ two leagues from Zutphen, well fortified for the importance thereof, being very necessary during the troubles: for holding the State's party in the year one thousand five hundred eighty two, the Duke of Parma sent Charles Earl of Mansfeldt to besiege it in the King of Spain's name: But the Prince of Orange knowing that three of his Nephews Herman, Frederic, and Adolph vanden Berghe, sons of his Sister and of Cont Van Sheeren Berghen were within it, he sent the Earl of Hohenloe with an army to raise the siege, as he did, and freed them; forcing Mansfeldt to retire with loss: Since which time the said town hath continued constant under the obedience of the Estates, until that in the year 1605. the Marquis Spinola Lieutenant to the Archduke Albert of Austria, besieged it, and took it by composition, but soon after it was recovered by Prince Maurice, and continues as before. GROLL. IN old time was a good Borough, but by these last wars within these thirty years, it hath been walled in with ramparts and Bulwarks having broad and deep ditches, fortified with casemats and counterscarps. Being held by the Spaniards Prince Maurice went and besieged it for the united Estates: Whereof Peter Earl of Mansfeldt Lieutenant for the King of Spain by provision, being advertised, he sent Colonel Mondragon Captain of the Castle of Antwerp, with a small Army, to raise his siege, or at the least to cut of his victuals. The Estates being ill informed of the strength of this Spanish army, which was made greater unto them than it was, they commanded Prince Maurice to retire as he did: But hearing what mondragon's forces were, who retired towards the Rhine to pass at Berck, he pursued him beyond the town of Wezell, in which pursuit Cont Philip and Ernest of Nassau Brethren, Cousins to the Prince, and Cont Ernest of Solms, being too far advanced contrary to the Prince's order, after they had defeated two Cornets of Spaniards, were themselves in the end put to rout, and the two Earls Philip of Nassau and Ernest of Solms slain, and Cont Ernest of Nassau was taken prisoner: Whereupon the Prince leaving his pursuit brought back his Army and Mondragon repassing the Rhine, returned with his into Brabant. But two years after, in the year 1597. the Prince went again to besiege it, in the which Cont Frederic Vanden Berghe commanded with 1200. men who finding himself very hardly priest, he yielded it by composition: Since in the year 1605. the Marquis Spinola recovered it (although it were held very strong) being yielded upon an honourable composition: It is two leagues from Breefort. SHEEREN BERGHE. A Town and Castle erected to an Earldom, whereof the last Earl was called William, whom King Philip the second made Earl: he had to wife the Prince of Orange's sister, by whom he had many sons, the eldest called Herman is now Earl: He with two of his brethren being besieged in Lochem, were delivered by the diligence of the Prince their Uncle: But soon after abandoning him ungratefully, they followed the Spaniards party: yet the Estates seized upon the town in the which they had their garrison: until that the Prince passing that way in the year 1597. the countess their mother obtained of him that the town should remain neuter▪ and that she and her daughters living in the castle should be freed from garrison: The like she obtained from the Archduke Albert: It is a little town of small importance, a League and a half from Dotecom. BREDEFORT. IS but a small Town with a Castle situated in a Moor, to the which there is but one passage to come unto it upon a Causey, so as it is of hard access: yet in the year 1597. Prince Maurice surmounting all difficulties, did besiege and batter it, and having caused it to be summoned, the Burghers having a disposition to yield, yea the women and children falling on their knees upon the rampart, and crying for mercy, the Captain who commanded them being resolved for to hold it, the Prince caused an assault to be given, and took it by force, commanding the soldiers to spare the Inhabitants. The Captain like a coward fled with his soldiers into the castle, and hid himself: The Prince caused certain pieces of Ordinance to be brought to batter the Port, which the soldiers seeing, they yielded upon condition that they should be all taken to ransom. This brave Captain was found hidden in a seller, yet he was no worse entreated than the rest: only he endured many affronts for his cowardly bravery. This town lies two leagues from Anholt: since it hath been well fortified by the united Estates. KEPPEL. IS a little town of small importance, as all other Land-townes be▪ it stands upon the old stream of Issel, half a league from Doesbourg. BURG. IS not much better than Keppel, seated upon the same torrent, a League from Doesbourg. here you may see ten towns as well great as small, strong as weak, in the Contie of Zutphen, besides boroughs, Villages and Castles, whereof there is good store, which make this Province to have a large jurisdiction: It hath endured much in these last war, but now they begin to take breath, whereof they have great need as well as divers others, but we will content ourselves with this description. The Province and Seigneiurie of Vtrecht. THis Estate and Seignieurie in old time belonging unto a Prince and particular Prelate, whom they called the Bishop of Vtrecht, was first given by the mere liberality of the Kings of France, unto S. Wildeboord the first Bishop, and afterwards by the Emperors to his successors, all under a colour of piety, which Estate did consist of two Dioceses: the one called the lower Diocese, where are the capitol Town of Vtrecht, Wick-ter-Duyrsted (called Batavodurum) Amersfort, Rhenen, and Montfort, with above sixty Boroughs and villages. The other was called the high Diocese, which contained all the country of Ouerissel, where there are fourteen or fifteen towns, whereof the three Imperial and Hans towns are Deventer Campen and Swolle: the which together with the rest, now make a Province a part: which we will describe hereafter. The lower Diocese is good and fertile, better manured then the upper, a higher ground and much drier than Holland, which is near neighbour unto it, to describe which we will begin with the chief town. VTRECHT. WAs first (as some write it) called Antonia or Antonina, of one Antony a Roman Senator, who (flying Nero's tyranny) retired into that quarter, and did begin this place. Others say that Marc Antony was the founder, from whom it took the name: Some also maintain, that it was so called of Antoninus Pius. But be it what it may: it is most sure (as many affirm, and as it may be gathered by Medalles and other Antiquities) that this town of Vtrecht was for a long time called Antonina, whereof there are yet some marks to be seen upon the Town-house. After that the Wiltes had taken and ruined it, they built a Fort which they call Wiltenbourg, the which was taken by Dagobert son to Clotaire King of France, who did fortify it more than before, and called it Traiectum, for it was a travers or passage whereas an Impost was paid (which in many places in France they call Le droit de Travers, the due or right of travers or passage) for all Merchandise, that was carried and recarried on either side: and it retains at this day the name of Traiectum. It stands upon the head of the Rhine, the which passed directly there, before that they forced it (in making a Scluse at Wicter-duyrsted some eight hundred years since) to cast itself into the river of Leck: passing through which town, it did pierce through Woerden, Oudwater and Leyden, and did engulf into the Sea at Catwick; yea since it had an other course: the waters and channels which pass by the said towns, are at this day called the old Rhine: It is an admirable thing, that this town is so situated that they may go to what town they please of fifty, which lie round about them in a day, the which being showed visible to Philip the 2. King of Spain, being upon the place, he took a wonderful delight. And it is most certain that there were some Noblemen which laid great wagers for the trial thereof, and found it true. Moreover in one of the longest days in Summer, if one parts early in a morning from Vtrecht, he may dine at any one of 26. towns, where he please, & return to his own house to supper: the Emperor Charles the 5. in the year 1542. caused a castle to be built near unto S. catherin's port, to keep the town in awe, when as by the session of the Bishop of that place, he was put in temporal possession of the said town & the dependences: the which he called Vredenbourg, that is to say a Castle of peace. The City is great & mighty, well fortified with ten good Bulwarks flanking one another, with their counterscarps and ditches all of Mason's work, and the ramparts in like manner: some Bulwarks are also of stone, the rest only of earth: there are goodly buildings, furnished with caves & vauted sellers. There are also goodly churches, among the which there are five, that have chanoins: The first which is the cathedral church, is called Saint Martin's, the second Saint Saviour near unto it, but now pulled down: the 3. Saint Peter the 4. Saint john, and the 5. of our Ladies, founded by the Emperor Frederic Barberossa, having been enjoined thereunto by the Pope, to expiate the fault which he had committed in ruining the town and all the churches and monasteries of Milan: But above all, the cathedral church is stately, having a fair high goodly tower, transparent: in the which the said Emperor Charles the 5. did celebrate the order of the golden fleece, in the year 1546. the old temple was pulled down by the bishop Adelbold, for that he held it to be too little, and did reedefie it in the estate we now see it. This new temple was consecrated in the year 1023. in the presence of the Emperor Henry the 2. by 12. bishops. There are also in the same town two commanders, one of the knights of Malta, and the other of the order of the Teutons, under the great Master of Prussia, both having churches and very stately lodgings, either of them having his commander. He of Malta is called the Bailiff of S. catherin's, and the other carries the name of commander or great Prior of the Province, by reason that he hath under him many small commanderies, and great possessions in many places of the Netherlands. They hold an honourable rank and do good to many which are entertained by the bounty of these men, as chanoins, abbeys and monasteries which are in the said town, who (although there be no other public exercise then of the reformed religion) hold their prebends and entertainments, the cloisters within precinct of the town standing as they did, except the houses of begging Friars which are applied to other uses: Of which abbeys and cloisters there is that of Saint Paul of the order of Saint Benet, and two of gentlewomen. There were also three of gentlewomen without the town, but these last wars have been the cause of their ruin, fearing to leave lodgings for their enemies, being to near the town, but the Nuns enjoy their entertainment; and when any Monk or Nun dies, the Estates of the Province put others in their places, to ease the poorer sort of the gentry. The citizens of this city are courteous, civil, industrious and rich amongst whom there are, and have always been men that are virtuous and of great valour; and above all Pope Adrian the sixth of that name, first of all a Doctor of both laws, whereon he hath written goodly works, and withal he was a great Mathematician. He obtained in the university of Louvain, (where he studied long) without seeking it, divers degrees of honour, and not without profit; and so sparing his revenues, he founded and built a college which at this day doth honour his memory: whose fame was so pleasing to all men, as he was chosen to be Schoolmaster to the Emperor Charles the fifth in his Infancy: by whose Majesty he was sent Ambassador into Spain, to the King Don Fernando of Arragon, who for his merits made him bishop of Tortoso. Being afterwards recommended to the Pope by the Emperor Maximilian the first he was made Cardinal. The King Don Fernando and the Archduke Philippe his Son in law being dead, cardinal Adrian was chosen for a time to be Governor and Viceroy of Spain in the name of Prince Charles who was soon after Emperor. In the end on the sixth day of january in the year of our Lord 1522. he was chosen Pope, the news, whereof being carried him into Spain, he made no show of joy; being anointed he would not change his name as others did; he lived but twenty months and some days after, in continual trouble of mind and grief: Amongst all his Epitaphs this agrees best with him. Hadrianus sextus hic situs est, qui nihil sibi infelicius in vita duxit, quam quod imperaret. here lies Adrian the sixth who thought nothing had happened unto him more unfortunate in all his life, then that he had commanded. He caused a goodly house to be built in Vtrecht the place of his birth, which they call at this day the lodging of Pope Adrian. In this city resides a Provincial council to the which all the appeals of the town, country and Siegniory of Vtrecht do resort: In which council there is a precedent and nine councillors, a receiver of the Province, Registers, and other Officers. This Siegneury was greater in the time of King Dagobert, who joined the temporalty to the spiritualty, giving it to Saint Willebrord, who was an English man borne, and the first bishop, to whom succeeded Boniface, in whose times this city was in great reputation, having the title and dignity of Archbishop, but Boniface having been martyred by the Frisons, this pre-eminence and authority, was with the consent of the chapter (than much afflicted by the Danes, and Normans) confersed to the bishops of Cologne who have ever since retained this dignity: notwithstanding Pepin and Charlemagne Kings of France restored this city, who not only established the Episcopal dignity, but to the end the bishop might defend himself from his adversary, he did so augment his jurisdiction, as his Siegneury did extend itself in a manner over all the country of the Battavians: And although the Frisons, Danes and Nortmen did spoil and burn it often, yet they did soon recover their former estate and gather new forces: To confirm that which we have said, it shall not be from the purpose to insert here some Latin verses though ill polished savouring of the harshness of the stile in those days, the which were written in two great tables of wood, hung upon two pillars before the Quire of the said cathedral church, written in great Letters, half worn out by continuance of time, those of the right side were. Circumquaque fluens Hollandia gurgite Rheni, cingitur Oceano fluminibusque maris. In qua cum muris urbs Antonina novellis, tempore Neronis aedificata fuit. Hanc devastavit fera Slavica gens, et ibidem castrum Wiltorum conditur inde novum. Turribus excelsis, quod adhuc plebs Abroditorum, funditur evertens dirruit usque Solum. Hinc Traiectense castrum cum maentbus altis, conditur a Francis Christicolis; sed idem Vulgus Danorum confregit humo tenùs, omnes cum clero cives, insimul ense necans. Denique Baldricus Praesul nova maenia struxit, quae modo subsistunt auxiliante Deo. Sic Hollandensi terrae veraciter omni, Traiectum constat urbs capitalis adhuc. The famous Rhine through Holland's bosom glides and (with the sea) enguirts it on all sides. Here, Vtrecht stands, first built (as authors say) in Nero's time, and called Antonia. These walls the Slauons razed, upon repair, of which, the name of Wiltenburch it bare. Then came the Abrodites, a nation wood, and levelled it even with the place it stood. In place whereof the christian Frankeners came and built a fort called Vtrecht: but the same Was by the Danes made a rude heap of stones, and they that held it slanghtered all at ones. stand yet, But bishop Baldric since repaired it, and raised those walls which (God be thanked) And thus remains it Vtrecht still, of all, the land of Holland, first, and principal. On the second pillar on the left hand hung these verses. Tempore Francorum Dagoberti regis in isto, presenti fundo conditus ecce decens. Primitus Ecclaesia Sancti Thomae prope castrum Traiectum, quam gens Frisica fregit atrox. Sed prior Antistes, Dominus. etc. This church which men S. Thomas-his do call, upon this plot was founded first of all. When Dagobert ruled France, near to the town of Vtrecht: the fierce Frisons razed it down. But the first prelate, Lord. etc. The rest of these verses were so worn as it was not possible to read them. WYCK-TER-DVYRSTED. IT appears by the ancient Histories, that this town of Wyck-ter-Duyrsted, hath in ancient time been a great and spacious town, in the which they write were 32. parish churches. It was before this town that the Rhine was damned up, and forced (some 8●0. years since) to leave his right course and to cast itself into the Lecke, as we have showed before. But they set not down the cause why they cut it off in this place, and made it take the course it now holds. The which happened, for that when as the wind was at the northwest, and blew hard, the river of Rhine being driven back, and not able to pass out by his gulf at Catwyck into the British sea, was forced to disperse itself over all the conntries of Holland, Vtrecht and the Betuve, which is of the Duchy of Geldres. The which happened often, whereby they sustained great losses, wherefore the Estates of these 3. Provinces assembling together, they consulted how they might prevent it, & in the end resolved to turn the Rhine from his right course, which was to the northwest, and to give it an other, which should fall, crookedly into the sea, as it doth at this present: for the effecting whereof they damned it up, drawing it by little & little into the Lecke which is near unto it making high banks of either side, so as in succession of time it is become a good navigable river, falling into the Meuse beneath Dordrecht, and so enters into the Ocean sea before Bryele. This town of wick is very ancient; Whereon Cornelius Tacitus a Knight and Roman Historiographer makes honourable mention, calling it Batavodurum. It was ruined by the Danes and Normans, but afterwards built again: yet nothing so big as at the first, notwithstanding it hath always been, as it is at this present, for the commodity of the situation▪, a good and a rich town, having a very strong castle, whereas the Princes, Bishops of Vtrecht did for a long time keep their court, when as they would lie in the lower diocese, as they did at the castle of Vollenhof Gheelmuyden in Oueryssel, a league from Campen, when as they kept in the higher Diocese. This town had in former times a private Lord, who was also Siegnior of Abcoude; But the bishops of Vtrecht would never be quiet until they had gotten it, this house declining as we have showed in the chapter of the Nobility of Holland. AMERSFORT. THis town was in old time built at twice, for there is a little town all walled about in the very midst of an other greater, the which at this present is very strong with ramparts and bulwarks flanking one an other, and large ditches. It is three leagues from Vtrecht standing upon a little river which they call Do. It hath been often taken and retaken by the Geldrois, the last was in the year 1543. when as Martin van Rossen Martial of the Duke of Geldres army took it by force: but he suddenly yielded it again according to the accord made in the town of Venlo, betwixt the Emperor and the said Duke. To speak the truth it is a fair and a good town, well peopled for a land town; the inhabitants are courteous and of good conversation, among the which there are many learned men and lovers of music, who in certain days of the week meet together in honest company to make music: for the which they have certain gardens and fair chambers of the sworn companies, as pleasant in summer as can be seen in any place wheresoever, and in winter they make choice of some of their houses: Master john Fouck Provost of our Lady's church in Vtrecht, was borne in this town, he was honoured with other degrees and Ecclesiastical dignities, a learned and virtuous man, and therefore he was called by the King into Spain, and there made Precedent of the council of the Netherlands, for the affairs of Flanders. In this town was also borne that great parsonage, john of Oldenbarneuelt Knight, Siegnior of Tempel and Groeneuclt, first councillor and advocate for the county of Holland and West-Frisland, a man of great judgement and experience, upon whom the affairs of Estate do chiefly depend, not only for the said county, but also of the general Estates of the united Provinces, which remain not at the Hage in Holland. RHENEN. SO called for that it is situated upon the bank of Rhine five good leagues from Vtrecht, & as much from Arnhem in Geldres, whereas they do most commonly dine, going or coming from one of these two towns unto the other, which is a great passage towards Deventer, Zutphen, Doesbourg and other places, as well in Geldres, as Cleves, or to Cologne or any place where they please in Germany. This town hath towards Vtrecht a large country, the soil whereof is fit to make turfs to burn, but not so good and durable, neither make they so good a coal as those of Holland: And a league from thence, there hath been within these 60. years, a village built, more for the making of these turfs, then for any other reason. There remains yet some form of a castle in this town, the which is little and of small importance, if this great passage were not, which makes it to be frequented. It consists most of Inns and Taverns. It hath also suffered much during the wars against the Geldrois. MONTFORT. THis town hath a particular Lord at this day▪ who writs himself Vicont of Montfort, it stands upon the river of Yssel, a league in equal distance from the towns of Woorden, Oudewater & Iselsteyn. The place is little but strong, founded by Godfrey of Rhenen bishop of Vtrecht, to serve as a bar & frontier against Holland, who did also build against the Geldrois the castle of Horst, against the Traiectins the town of Woerden, and against the Frisons, Vollenhoven in the country of Oueryssel: the which appears sufficiently by his Epitaph. Godefride tui Rhenanam providus arcem donasti juris▪ aereque mox proprio, Quatuor en patriae, largus munimina nostrae, Horst, Woerd, et Monfort construis et Volenhoe: Wise Godfrey first with Rhenen did enlarge our state, and then at his own cost and charge. He Montfort, Venlo, Horst, and Woerdt, did rear, the four chief forts that keep our foes in fear. Lambertus Hortensius, a learned man who hath composed many good books, was borne in this town. Of the Estate of Vtrecht in general. THe Bishopric and Estate of Vtrecht was in former times very great and powerful, the which Charles the Bald King of France did with the temporalty make an Earldom, whereupon there grew great and long wars, betwixt the bishops of Vtrecht & the Earls of Holland, for that the bishops sought to recover by favour of the Emperors, all their ancient demeins, granted unto them by Dagobert, and Charles the Bald: And the Earls of Holland seeking to maintain, yea to augment that which had been newly given them, were supported by the Kings of France. I say that this Estate was in old time so great and their territories so large, (as Aeneas Silvius otherwise called Pope Pius the 2. doth write) as the bishop or prince thereof, might at need, put 40000. armed men of his own natural subjects to field. And although they had continual wars against their neighbours (whereof they themselves were ever the first motives) as the Hollanders, Frisons and Geldrois, yet they made head against them all, as well as they could, as appeared by Godfrey of Rhenen. But in the latter age Charles of Egmond duke of Geldres, a proud Prince, warlike and fierce, made such sharp wars against the Bishops of Vtrecht, as he reduced them to great extremity, & especially Henry of Bavaria, brother the the Cont Palatin of Rhine from whom he took a great part of his Siegneury, as well of the higher as the lower diocese. Moreover the citizens of Vtrecht were grown so proud by reason of their freedoms and privileges, and so insolent by reason of their wealth, as they grew into factions among themselves, causing many disorders in their town, and attempting against their bishops; they did often revolt against them, & if they were not chosen according to their humours, they would not accept them, but did them a thousand indignities, yea kill their Officers, & taking some prisoners before their faces, not without danger to the bishops own person, who was forced (to escape their fury) to fly to his castles of Wyok or Horst. The last revolt and affront which they did unto their Prince and bishop, was unto the above name Henry of Bavaria, who had enjoyed this dignity four years, being incensed against him, having been one day abroad in the country, and returning home at night, they shut the gates against him, and would not suffer him to enter into the town: and (which was worse) soon after they received Martin van Rossen, Martial of the camp to the Duke of Geldres, into the town with a garrison of Geldrois, who from thence did wonderfully annoy the Hollanders, and at one time made an incursion as far as the Hage, the which they spoiled, and retired safely with their booty to Vtrecht. Bishop Henry seeing himself thus braved by the Geldrois, and by his own subjects, resolved to cast himself into the arms of the Emperor Charles the fifth and to transport unto him all that he held of the temporalty: to the end he might succour him, to preserve that which belonged unto the spirituality in this town and state. And for that the Emperor was then in Spain, he did impart it to the Lady Marguerite his Aunt, who was Dovager of Savoy and Regent of the Netherlands: so as in the end it was concluded, that on the 15 of November 1●27. he should come in person to Schoonhoven, whether the Emperor should send some men of account on his behalf▪ amongst which were the Earls of Buren & Hochstraten, the chancellor of Brabant and the Precedent of the Provincial council of Holland: where being arrived at the day appointed, after many consultations, they concluded that the Bishop should yield up, resign & transport, all the rights, interest and pretensions, which he had to the temporal jurisdiction in the diocese of Vtrecht, and the country of Oueryssel, to the benefit & profit of the said Emperor, of which rights he did put his Imperial Majesty in possession, as Duke of Brabant & Earl of Holland, (not in quality of Emperor) as well for himself, as for his successors descended of his blood: whereupon the Earls of Buren and Hochstraten, the chancellor and other deputies, did promise unto the bishop in the Emperor's name their master▪ and did bind themselves to make war against his enemies, and to settle him in his Episcopal seat, and make him duly to enjoy his spiritual dignity. The Duke of Geldres being advertised of this treaty and accord, he made sharper wars than before, and so incensed the citizens of Vtrecht against their Bishop Henry, as they sought by all means to deprive him of his Episcopal dignity, choosing in his place (by the Duke's instigation and council) the Earl of Bilg, a chanonine of Cologne. Then did there grow a furious war betwixt the Emperor and Bishop▪ Henry, against the Duke of Geldres and the comunalty of Vtrecht, holding the Duke's party▪ and their new Bishops: So as after much blood spilled, and many spoils done in the country; there were some citizens of Vtrecht well affected to Bishop Henry, who brought the Emperor's men into the town the 1. of july 1528. who entered early in a morning by surprise, where there was some little opposition, & the Earl of Maeurs (lieutenant to the Duke) was taken prisoner, with many of the chief of the town, and some chanoins. Three days after the bishop entered, and caused some of the mutines to be executed by the sword, yea he made two chanoins to be put into a sack and cast into the river, and he would have taken a sharper revenge without the intercession of the Earl of Hochstraten: eight days after he assembled the three Estates in the public place, by the which he was acknowledged to be their bishop & Prince, all solemnly swearing fidelity & obedience unto him. Afterwards the bishop having conferred again with the said Estates, he propounded unto them, how that being in the town of Schonhoven, he had let them understand his resolution to submit the temporalty of his Siegneury to the Emperor, showing them how necessary it was, for their quiet and public preservation, to the end that this Estate being under the guard and protection of so mighty a Monarch; it should be defended and preserved from all enemies which did environ it; entreating them to like well of that which he had resolved, and to yield unto it. The matter being diversly debated after many allegations on either side, in the end (for that they could not avoid it, the Emperor's men being already in possession of the town) seeing they had committed an error, and that their oppposition would avail them nothing, but incense the Emperor & their Prelate, they yielded unto it. That is, that the city of Vtrecht, with the jurisdiction and limits of all the towns, villages, boroughs, forts, territory, champain country, mountains, woods, forests, rivers, pools, lakes, mills, rents and revenues to conclude all that was of the temporal demeins, of the said Estate and country of Vtrecht, together with all the right, title and interest, which he had to the high diocese, that is to say, to the country of Oueryssel, and over the town of Groaning, the jurisdiction of the Groningers and the Omelands, with all their rights, should be united and incorporated to the demeins of the Dukes of Brabant and Earls of Holland. The which having been agreed upon and concluded, the Traiectins were absolved of their oath of fealty which they had taken unto the said bishop, who freely discharged them, upon condition that they should take the like oath, and do homage to the Emperor, and to his lawful heirs issued of his blood, Dukes of Brabant and Earls of Holland: The Bishop reserving nothing for himself and his successors, but the spiritual jurisdiction and revenues, and that sumptuos Palace in the town, joining to the cathedral church, built by Charles Martel Duke of Brabant, father to Pepin King of France, who gave it to Gregory the third Bishop of Vtrecht. All things being thus concluded betwixt the Bishop Henry of Bavaria, and the Emperor; Charles Duke of Geldres finding his forces to weak to encounter so great a Monarch, he purchased a peace with his Majesty, the which was concluded the first of October following: And the 21. of November the Earl of Hochstraten, as governor of Holland for the Emperor, was sent by the Lady Marguerite Regent into the said town of Vtrecht, who took a solemn possession in his majesties name (as Duke of Brabant and Earl of Holland) and received their oaths and homages: the like he did at Amersfoort, Wyck-ter-Duyrsted, Renen, and Montfort, (as for the sovereignty this last town having a particular Lord and Vicont of that place) returning back to Vtrecht the chief town of the country; he disposed of the Estate & government. And as all things were well settled under the Emperor's authority, bishop Henry had a desire (for some reasons) to retire into Germany to his other Bishopric of Worms choosing for Bishop & substituting in his place William of Enckwoort borne at Boisleduc Cardinal and Bishop of Tortone, as Pope Adrian the sixth had been before he was Pope, who resigned the said bishopric unto him before he came to the Popedom. This Enckwoort was a Courtier at Rome, and came not to his Bishopric of Vtrecht (making james Vte●engen his Vicar) until he died in the year 1533. In the mean time Pope Clement the seventh having seen the Contracts and Instruments of the session and transport made by the Bishop Henry of Bavaria to the Emperor of the temporalty of Vtrecht, and the appourtenances, having had therein the advice and consent of the College of Cardinals, they did approve and ratify all, decreeing that this session and transport should be of force, and take full effect. But for that this Estate and Seignieury is a fee of the Empire, and doth hold of the Imperial Chamber, the Emperor was forced to demand the investiture of the said Chamber in his own private name, as well for himself as for his successors lawfully descended from him. The which he did easily obtain. And by this means the Cities, Towns, territory and jurisdiction of the Estate and Seigneiury of Vtrecht (which had been governed by their proper Princes and Bishops; above nine hundred year) came under the obedience of the Emperor Charles the fifth, and after him to his son Philip the second King of Spain, Duke of Brabant, Earl of Holland etc. Of which Estate of Vtrecht (being two Dioceses) the Emperor made two Estates, reducing them into two Provinces, which make the number of seventeen in the Netherlands; that is, into the province of Vtrecht, & that of Oueryssel: That of Vtrecht making the fourth in rank of the confederate Belgic Provinces, under the general Estates, and that of Oueryssel the fifth, having their voices and suffrages in that order in their Cessions. The Estates of which Province of Vtrecht consist at this day, as in former times, of three members; the Clergy of five Colleges that have canons, the Nobility, and the towns: Of which Colleges the Deputies are indifferently chosen, to assist daily in their Assemblies, with them of the Nobility and towns; who have their Secretaries and other Officers. This signory of Vtrecht hath (as we have said) a Provincial Council, from which at this present there is no appellation, as had been heretofore to the Imperial Chamber at Spier, at such time as it was merely a member of the Empire: but since that the Emperor Charles the 5. did unite it to his domains, excluding the said Imperial Chamber, he made it subject to the great Council at Macklyn: until that the Estates of the said country and of Oueryssel, having within these thirty years recovered their liberty, it hath been discontinued. Notwithstanding in case of remission they may have their recourse unto the Estates of the Province; where as the revision is made by the same Acts: In which Provincial Council there is a precedent, six Councillors, an Attorney general, and a Register. The Chamber of account, is kept by the college of the Estates, whereas the Tresorers as well general as particular are bound to come and yield up their Account. The said signory hath also a particular Mint, as it hath always had; the which is also subject to the general of the mint for the united Estates. The government and Religion is generally maintained as in other Provinces their confederates. There are four Marshals for the whole signory, every one of which having charge in the quarters that are assigned them, where they are to command their Archers to apprehend all vagabonds and other offenders which they shall meet in the country. The deceased Prince of Orange of famous memory, was Governor of this Province, as of Holland and Zealand, placed there by King Philip, before his last return towards Spain; after the violent death of the said Prince, the united Estates did subrogat Prince Maurice of Nassau his son, Marquis of La Vere, and Flissingue, making him more over their Captain General and Admiral of all the united Provinces, as he is at this present. FRIESLAND. NO man can deny but this Frison Nation is very ancient, as it appears by the ancient greek and latin writers, as Strabo, Ptolomey, Pliny, Tacitus and others: for it retains at this day the same seat and the same name, which they gave them and had before them▪ Seeing that in a manner all other Nations of Germany have either quit their old abodes, or else have received new names: the which needs no far fetched proofs, seeing their nearest neighbours do verify it. For the names of Holland, Vtrecht, Ouerissel, Westphalia and others, were never known by any of the above named Authors: neither was the name of Geldre ever in use (the Inhabitants whereof, and of Cleves, juilliers, Monts, & Berghe were then called Sicambres) but eight hundred seventy eight years after the Nativity of our Saviour JESUS CHRIST. That which they now call the country of Saxony, was not the abode of the ancient Saxons, whereof Ptolomey makes mention. So as it is hard for modern writers to judge (by reason of the alteration of names) if those which be at this present neighbours unto Friesland, be the same Nations which in ancient time were wont to be, or whether they be now more remote. But as for the Frisons there is no dispute nor doubt, whereof to give more firm and solid reasons both of the name and of the Antiquity, the Reader shall understand that the succession of their Princes, the families, the foundation of towns, castles and villages, may in their regard, be drawn, if not farther, yet with more certainty than any other Nation of Germany. The Danes although they be very ancient, and equal touching their beginning with the Frisons, cannot make a true extraction, nor give a reason of the time, but since their King Frotho the third; during whose reign our Saviour JESUS CHRIST was borne. The Franconians likewise although they be very old (whatsoever they pretend that their freedom was purchased in the service of the Roman Emperors) yet are they in doubt of their first beginning, issue and denomination: so as they cannot decipher their true and contained Chronologie, but since charlemagne time. But the Frisons having to this day always kept one name and one dwelling, may directly and by a plain computation of times, report their gests from the beginning unto the ending: so having taken beginning 313. years before CHRIST, and since that time four times made proof of the change and Estate of their Common weal: they may by a clear computation of years, show how long they were under princes, then under dukes▪ after under Kings, unto Charlemaigne, and since under Podestates, until their Anarchia; how long also under the Factions unto the resignation which George Duke of Saxony made unto the Emperor Charles the fifth, and how long under the house of Austria until their Emancepation and liberty, which they enjoy at this present, proving from the beginning of their Princes the foundation and building of the town of Staueren, which then was the chief of all the Realm of Friesland. By reason of which Antiquity this town hath had a prerogative from the Kings of Denmark, that in passing the strait of the Sonde; their ships have privilege to go first before all others, either going or coming out which must attend their turns, but not those of Staueren, which must be presently dispatched by the Impost gatherers. To describe the questions which are betwixt the ancient and modern Authors, to find out the truth from what place Friso and his two brethren Bruno and Saxo are first descended, were in my opinion a tedious and endless labour, seeing they can determine nothing that is certain, no more then of the Ancestors of these three princes; which some maintained to be descended from Ragau, son to Sem, the son of No: But it appears plainly that they were of the relics of the Macedonian Army, having served Alexander the great in his conquest of Asia and the Indies, who placed them in garrison in the Emodian Mountains. But the Indiens after the death of Alexondar, being persuaded by Sandrocotus to rebel; Friso with his two brethren and all their friends embarked in three hundred ships in the year of the creation, 3642. & before the Nativity of Christ, three hundred twenty one, & so put to sea, sailing from one country to another, seeking some new dwelling, but they wandered up and down eight years and could not be received: In the end of so many ships (whether that the Seas had swallowed them up, or spoiled with age, or otherwise lost) there were but fifty four which arrived at a safe Port, whereof eighteen landed in Prussia, twelve in Russia, and twenty four (in the which were Friso and his brethren) entered by the Fly about Autome into these quarters of Friesland without any let or opposition of the Suedens, who at that time (for fear of tempests and Inondations) where retired into the highest part of the country. Having taken land they presently built a Temple to jupiter, which in their language the called Stavo▪ and there they built a town, which of the name of their God they called Stavora, which is now the town of Staueren standing upon the Frisons sea, the which they fortified: whereby they defended themselves not only against the Suedens, but also against the Danes, Britons and others, getting their living as well of piracy at sea, as by tilling of the ground, until the people being multiplied, and questions growing daily among them by reason of the straightness of their country, which was not sufficient to feed all their cattle: Prince Friso fearing that this contention of the Commons (he being the elder of his brethren) might breed some dislike betwixt them three, propounded a means to maintain love & amity betwixt them; who having imparted it unto the people; this was found the most expedient: That Bruno and Saxo with their families (leaving this part of Friesland) should seek forth some new habitations near unto it, as well for themselves as for their successors: So as being neighbours one unto an other, they might not only entertain themselves in the Discilpine and Institution of their Ancestors, but also succour one another with their common forces, against all incursions of their enemies So three hundred years before CHRIST, Saxo and Bruno parted from Staueren, and passing by the Fly, they sailed towards the East, until they came to Haldr●cht, or Saxony, near unto the german Sea, whereas entering into the gulf of Albis, they landed by little and little, and having chased away the Inhabitants by force, they won a great country. Bruno (for that he would not discontent his brother) went towards the West, by the Visurge or Wezer, where he founded a City of his own name called Brunswick. (What this word of Wick signifies we have showed before) the which although it hath been often destroyed, built again and augmented, yet when as the posterity of Bruno came once to fail, it hath always retained the title of a free town: So as in the time of Charlemaign it was wholly destroyed, but in the year eight hundred sixty one it was re-edified again by Bruno Duke of Saxony, son to Ludoph; whereof I thought good to make mention, for that Albert Crantz doth maintain, that the town of Brunswick was first founded by this Bruno son to Ludolph. Touching the gests of Bruno and Saxo, and of their successors Saxons and Brunswickians, we will leave them to such as have written the histories of Saxony and Brunswick, and will only speak of our Friso: who being the first Prince of the Frisons, after the departure of his brethren, retained all Friesland for his inheritance, the which did extend itself along the North-sea coast, from the rivers of Fly and Ems (or Ameris) on the West side on the river of Zidore to the East, which is the length and breadth from the North and the British sea, unto the Battavians or Hollanders, and to the Sicambrians: which are the Geldrois on the South side. All which country Bruno divided into seven parts, according to the number of his sons, which he called Zeelandts, for that they are all upon the sea, most part islands or Peninsules joined to the continent: his sons were Adel his eldest, and the second Prince of Friesland, Witto, Hetto, Hayo, Scholto, Gailo & Aesgo: to whom he gave by his Testament certain precepts of that which they should do or not do to entertain amity and correspondency with their neighbour Princes: he himself left unto his sons their portions in writing, and also a certain treaty of alliance which he made with the Princes of Germany: who by a common Accord and consent made him and his successors Gardiens of the North sea, to defend the whole country from the Inondation of the sea, as also of the public ways against robbers and thieves, to that end that Merchants might pass and traffic freely unto the Rhine: and in this respect he was allowed to take customs & imposts of merchandise at divers passages: he had also an Immunity of Arms granted him, which was a privilege, whereby neither he nor his were bound to go to the war when as the other Princes and Provinces went to defend the liberty of Germany. The Frisons had many other good privileges, of their liberty & freedom, the which were given them by Cesar Augustus, Charlemaigne and other Emperors, and ratified by Charles the fifth, which they have always maintained. These seven parts of Friesland called Zeelandts, were divided & compassed in by certain rivers, whereof betwixt Eldere and Flye were five▪ that is, Lanwer, Eems, Wezer, Elbe, and jadua. Betwixt the Fly and Eems there were three of these Zeelandts, very well peopled upon the South side, for that the North part was not habitable by reason of the lakes, moors, & bogs, which were inaccessible, & for want of banks to defend them from the Inondation of the sea. wherefore the places most frequented were that of Staueren, the seven forests, Steenwick, Twent, Drent, a part of the Territory of Groaning, Benthem and Oldenburch, all which lay together upon the main land: All which until charlemagne time was called High Friesland, as it may appear by the writing of some Saints which have preached the Word of God there. But 120. years before CHRIST, Friso the young (whom they also call Frisius) son to Grunnius who was founder of Groaning, son to Gaylo the son of Hago the 4. son of Friso the first Prince of the Frisons, made a new Colony of Frisons not far from the rest; having had to wife the daughter of Vbbo third Prince of Frisons who was named Frou, which signifies Lady, by which name Oppianus saith, the Emperor Severus wife was called. This Friso obtained from his father and father in law, a troop of men, with the which he passed the Fly on the West part, into an empty Island, where he stayed, and there made his abode, calling it new Friesland, whereof the Inhabitants were called Frisiabenes: And on a certain place (where as since the town of Alcmar was built) he seated a town which by his wives name he called Frougast: But as in the Frison tongue as well as in the german, they do usually pronounce a V. consonant for an F. In succession of times this word is changed into Vrougast or Vroulegast, with which word Geyst there are many places end in Friesland. This town of Vrougast became afterwards, great, and of good traffic: The which the romans making war against the Battavians and Frisons, for the affinity which this name had with their town of Verona in Italy, they also called it Verone. Of this West-Frisland is that to be understood which Tacitus writes was done by the Frisons for their neighbourhood with the Battavians. In this Estate was Friesland maintained since the coming of Friso their first prince the space of one hundred ninety three years, whereof Staueren was the chief town, whereas the Princes kept their Court, governing the other quarter's called Zeelandts by their Lieutenants. This Town of Staueren grew so proud by their wealth and Navigation, as they seemed all gold, gild the posts of their houses, and their vanity was so great as a rich widow having commanded the Master of her ship to bring her the best Merchandise he should find in the East Countries: For that he brought nothing back but Wheat, which he held to be best; This vain woman commanded the Master, that if he had laden it on the larboard side, he should cast it into the Sea on the starboard side▪ which having done, God sent a tempest which did so move the sands of the sea, as in the same place where the Wheat had been cast forth, there did rise a bar or bank of sand, which hath ever since spoiled the Haven of the said Town, which hath deprived them quite both of their Navigation and wealth, so as since the Inhabitants (having been often spoiled) are now grown more modest. All that Prince Friso had left in writing, was not done in the Frison tongue, but in Greek letters: having reigned sixty year he died, two hundred twenty seven years before Christ▪ Adel his eldest son succeeded him, who reigned ninety four years, and died one hundred thirty one years before Christ. After him came Vbbo his son who governed eighty years, and died fifty one years before Christ. Friso or Frisius son to Grunnius who built the town of Groaning (as we have said) married the Lady Frou; To whom succeeded his son Asniga Ascou 4. Prince of Friesland, who reigned 82. years, and died 31. years after the birth of Christ: Diogarus Segon was 5. Dibaldus Segon 6. & Tabbo 7. all which together lived 443. years: them had they as many Dukes, whereof Ascon was the first, who had four sons, whereof Adelbold the eldest succeeded him, and was second Duke of Friesland; dying without children he left his brother Tito Bocaial his successor, who dying also without children, had Vbbo son to his brother Richold, Nephew to Ascon for his heir, who was 4. Duke of Friesland: To whom succeeded his son Haron fifth Duke, who died in the year of Christ three hundred thirty five. After him came his son Odibald sixth Duke, than Vdolph Haron seventh and last Duke. For after him unto Charlemaigne Friesland had nine Kings. These seven dukes altogether reigned two hundred sixty two years. Then came Richold Vtto who was first King of East Friesland. (we call it so in regard of Westfreezeland, into the which Friso the young son of Grunnius led the first Colonies.) To him succeeded Odibaldus, second King of Friesland: Then Richold third King. And after him Beroald son to Valck fourth King of Friesland, in the time of Clotaire King of France, and by him slain in battle. Adgil was fifth King of Friesland: Radbod the first of that name, 6. King of Friesland: After whom came Adgil the 2. the 7. King who had three sons, Gombauld the 8. King of Frisons john called the Priest, & Radbod: Gombauld was a good Christian, & went to serve Charlemaigne, where he was slain with Rolland and other peers of France, at the battle of Ronseval. john called the Priest (so called for his holiness of life) followed Charlemaigne in his voyage to jerusalem: from whence (as Suffridus Petri a Frison writer sayeth) he passed on with a Colony to the East Indies, where he erected a Kingdom, the which was called by his name, the Kingdom of Prestre jean: whose successors which came afterwards into Africa, into the Kingdom of the Abissens, are at this day called Prestres Ieans. Radbod the third son of Adgil, the second of that name, was King of Friesland, a great persecuter of Christians, he was twice vanquished by the French. It was he which retired from the font, being ready to be baptised, upon a foolish answer which the Bishop of Soissons made him, going to baptise him. He did great spoils unto Christians, as far as Vtrecht●, the which he ruined▪ and destroyed the Temple of S. Thomas, which King Dagobert had built. He reigned fifty years; and with him ended the Kings of Friesland; the Realm being after that annexed to the Crown of France. We have before made mention of Friso the young, who led the first Colony into West Friesland: let us now speak of the second, who was brought into that quar●er which is now called Waterlandt, which happened in this manner: we have before said that Ascon first duke of Friesland, had four sons, Adelbod, Tito, Richold & Radbod: that the two first were dukes successively, and that Vbbe the son of Richold, was the 4. Duke of Friesland; there than remained Radbod the 4. son of Ascon: having taken a wife out of West-Frisland, of the race of Friso the young; he had by her one son, called Thierry, who in the 300. year of CHRIST'S nativity, which was the 2. of the reign of Haron the 5. duke of the old Frisons his cousin, led a Colony into that quarter of West-frisland, with the help of the said Haron, and other four of his cousins, the which at that time by reason of the multitude of islands, Moors, Lakes, and other still waters, was not yet inhabited: yet with that aid and the interest he had by his wife, he made this second part (which at this present is Waterlandt) habitable and fertile, in the which are Edam, Monikendam, Purmerends, Woormer, rip, Graft and other good villages, so as of these two parts joined together, with that which he added afterwards on the west part, he made an Estate, and built a Palace at Medenblike, which he made the chief town of the whole country. Who pretending to make it a Kingdom, Haron his Cousin, Duke of East Friesland hindered him, for the which they were long in controversy, till in the end Haron forced him to content himself with the title of a Duke. This Thierry Duke of West-Frisland had one son which succeeded him, named William the first, who had Dibauldi, Dibauld had William the second, who had Elim, he died without heirs male, and in him failed the line▪ of this Thierry: Having before his death adopted Beroald (being but seven years old) the son of Richold the second of that name, the third King of Friesland: so as all these Dukes of West-Frisland successively reigned two hundred thirty three years, five and twenty years after the death of Elim, in the year of Christ five hundred thirty three. Beroald after the death of Richold his father did inherit the Realm of East Friesland. Thus were the two Frislands united together; the which Beroald enjoyed sixty years: whereof he was afterwards deprived, and of his life also, by Clotaire the second of that name King of France, father to Dagobert: Notwithstanding Adgill the second succeeded him, and after him Gombauld, then Radbod the second, whom Charlemaigne vanquished, and freed the Frisons from the yoke of Kings: restoring them to their liberty, to whom he gave goodly privileges, the which they have long maintained with the prize of their bloods. Since the Frisons were long under an Aristocratical Government, sometimes under Potestates whom they did chose themselves, and not able to agree upon the election by reason of dangerous factions, the Earls of Holland having in succession of time and long wars, seized upon that part which they now call West-Frisland and Waterlandt, the which the Hollanders will have, (but the Inhabitants of the country cannot endure it) called Northolland. On the other side, the dukes of Brunswick, the Hans towns of Breme and Hambourg, the Earl of Oldenbourg, Schowenbourg and Embden have usurped much of East Friesland, even unto the Territory of Groaning: the which although it be an Estate & territory apart, is comprehended notwithstanding under the territory of that which hereafter we will simply call Friesland, enclosed betwixt the Fly and Ems, to distinguish it from East-Frisland held by the Earls of Embden, and West-Frisland, annexed to the county of Holland. That than which we will simply call Friesland, and the Inhabitants Frisons, as Tolomcy and Tacitus term them, saying that they are Germans, and people from beyond the Rhine, whom Pliny calls Cauches, the great and the less, are Aborigines, or originally come from that place: who above all the people of Germany retain their ancient appellation, keeping in their ancient and first seat, having the same language they have always had. True it is that in the chief towns they use the Dutch-tongue, but in the champain country they keep their Frison language, which the gentlemen take pleasure to entertain in regard of the antiquity. Although I be well acquainted with the high and low Dutch tongue, yet I must confess that in this ancient Frison language I understand nothing. We have said before that the Frisons did for a time entertain themselves under factions, we must therefore relate succinctly the beginning thereof: which was that in the year of our redemption. 1390. there did rise two factions in the country of Friesland, the one Vetcoopers, which signifies in their vulgar tongue, merchants of grease, that is to say, merchants of fat oxen, which they hold for an honest kind of merchandise, and of Schyeringers, which are butchers and sellers of tripes, which is a base kind of trade, which factions they say came from East and West Friesland. The first spring and beginning thereof was; that all these merchants of cattle and the butchers being together at a public banquet according to their custom, there was a guest to choose a Provost, a Dean or a King amongst them, whose charge should be to look that no disorder should be committed, which might trouble the company. There was amongst them of either of these two companies, one that exceeded the rest, and both equal in wealth, in respect and love towards all the guests. Whom both the one and the other party contended to choose, their Dean, Provost or King: the one and the other maintaining that this dignity & authority at the table, was most befitting him that had the honestest trade. Whereupon a question grew among them, which of those two merchandise was the honestest: the one preferring the merchants of cattle, the other the butchers. Upon which dispute their brains being haet with wine, in the end they fell from words to blows one against an other, party against party, every one with his Allies and Kinsmen, meaning to maintain the one quarrel or the other: so as in the end there was a great fight, in the which many were either hurt or slain. In revenge whereof, either party holding itself wronged, they began to make factions, and to bandy one against an other: so as this canker eating more and more; strangers (who had no interest, nor were any way wronged) engaged themselves, upon hope of booty of the one or the other party: every one wresting what he could from his Adversary, without either law or justice (so confused were things then and full of disorder) but such as they made by the sword, where as the strongest carried it. The fruits of these factions were such, as they not only reigned amongst private persons, but amongst whole families, villages, bourrougs and towns, yea among whole Provinces, so as the whole country was full of thefts and murders, and no man was free from their insolencies. In like manner about that time Holland was afflicted with the factions of Hoecks and Cabillaux that is to say, the Hamesons and the Merlus, whereof we have made mention heretofore: which was, that the one party (as the Merlus or cods be fishes which prey) did threaten to devower the other: and they of the Hamesons did threaten to take the others by the throat: which to speak truth were quarrels scarce fit for children. And at that time were the factions of Gelphes & Gibelins in Italy: Of the diversity of coloured caps in Flanders, & of those of the star in France, all which were factions raised from the devil. This mischief proceeded so far in Friesland, as from the less it came to the greater, and from Merchants and Burghers to the Nobility and Clergy: The gentlemen ruining the houses & castles one of an other: and the Abbots and Monks doing all the mischief they could one unto an other: So as to appease these factions, and to reconcile the Noblemen, the Emperor Maximilian the first, sent Otto van Langen to persuade them to choose a Potestat amongst them, which should govern the country according to their privileges, under the authority of the Empire. But their spleen was so great, as every one seeking to choose one of their faction, the said commissioner prevailed nothing, but returned as he came. So as the Emperor to force them to an accord, took occasion to give the government hereditary of all Friesland and Groaning to the house of Saxony, to hold it in fee of the Empire. For the attaining whereof, the Dukes of Saxony having spent a great part of their means with small profit, finding this people so impatient of a stranger's yoke, in the end Duke George resigned all his interest unto the Emperor Charles the fifth who enjoyed it quietly, as his son Philip King of Spain also did, till within these thirty years that they freed themselves by their adiunction unto the general union of the confederate Provinces of the Netherlands. Thus much we have thought good to speak of the beginning and Estate of Friesland in general; Now we will describe the towns in particular. LEEWARDEN. IS at this day (as in old time Staueren was wont to be) the chief town of Friesland, situated almost in the centre of the country, called in ancient time during the Paganisine, Aula Dei, and in the vulgar tongue Godts▪ hoff▪ that it to say the court of God, in the which was a college or school for the Druids, Philosophers and wise men of that time, which were come out of France to plant their colleges there. In witness whereof, there are yet in this town two Temples, the one named the ancient court, the other the new, whereof the gentlemen of the country were in former times called Hovelingen, that is to say courtiers, for that they were constituted public defenders of this house of God taught by the Druids. And in truth this town hath more gentlemen in it, than any other in Friesland. Of this school of the Druids, Synard the wise, a divine and councillor to Radbod the last King of the Frisons was Rector, whom he counseled to persecute the Christians; he censured and caused Tully's books of the nature of the Gods to be burnt, condemning them as full of errors and contrary to the doctrine which they taught, of the false Gods of the Gentiles. This town in process of time having taken the name of Leewarden, and the country being converted to the christian Religion, this school of the Druids was changed into a cloister of Nuns, by Vboalt in the year 1233. the which Dodo the fourth Abbot of Fleurencamp, would have also called, Aulam Dei, for that he would not have the memory of that name lost. But in the vulgar tongue it hatth been called Nyen-clooster, that is to say a New cloister. They of Leewarden have always continued (as it appears by all ancient and modern writers) and entertained their school in good learning: which hath ever been the chief of all Friesland. Until that within these 20. years, the Estates of the Province have erected an university in the town of Franiker, two leagues from thence; for the entertainment of which school, as at this present of the university, and of the learned professors which are there, in all faculties, the magistrates of Leuwarden have never spared any charge. In this town is the court of Parliament for all Friesland, which doth determine of all causes both criminal and civil: whether all causes come and are to be decided according to the sincerity of the Roman laws, the which are observed there with the like purity as they were made by the Emperor justinian, and as they are taught in universities, having not above twenty municipal laws or customs, derogating from the written law. All proceedings and other public acts are made in the Dutch tongue, their stile of writing, and the form of their letters and characters, as well printed as written, are as pure and neat as in any other courts of Brabant, Flanders, Holland, Vtrecht, and other places of the Netherlands: So as the natural Frisons as also the Brabansons, Hollanders, Flemings and other dutch, may easily execute all Offices of Magistrates, Secretaries and Notaries, as well in one country as in an other, depending upon writing, be it of justice, Policy, Account, Treasure or otherwise. This town of Leuwarden is seated in the quarter of Ostergoe, being great and spacious, and containing in circuit near half a French league; the streets are fair, large and strait, in the which it is not lawful to leave any filthiness, every house having a boat, into the which they cast it; the which being full, they transport it by barks into the fields: the town being so divided by navigable channels (whereon there are many bridges) to serve as well for the traffic of merchandise, as for other commodities, so as most houses may bring their provisions up to their doors, or not far from them: The which do also serve greatly for the cleansing of the streets, the rain washing away all the filth (if any remains in the streets) into the channels. The air is clear, but somewhat brackish by reason of the exhalations of the sea which is near: which is the cause that it doth not lightly engender any putrefaction, neither is it often infected, with any contagious disease. It stands in a very pleasant country, full of goodly Meadows, even unto the towne-ditches, being a pleasant sight on Sundays and Festival days, to behold the Burghers walking and supping upon the green grass by troops. It hath also many pleasant villages round about the town, which seem as walks for the Inhabitants. The situation is (as we have said) in the midst of Friesland, so as on a summers day they may go either in waggon, or horseback or on foot on which side they please, either to Ostergoe Westergoe, or the Seven Forests, out of the country, where they have good means to go and transport their merchandise by shipping either great or small. In regard of which commodities and the goodness of the seat, Albertus' Duke of Saxony and George his son, having obtained the hereditary government of Friesland from Maximilian the Emperor, did there settle the Parliament for the whole Province, which the Emperor Charles the fifth and his son King Philippe, have since allowed and confirmed; moreover Friesland hath good havens on every side, by the which they may commodiously and speedily bring all sorts of merchandise and commodities unto the town, which makes it cheap living there. This town hath under his Griteny, that is to say, Baylewicke or jurisdiction, which they call Leewarderadeel seventeen good villages depending thereon: for in all the quarter of Ostergoe, whereof this town is the chief, there are ten Gritenies, every one of which hath his villages depending thereon, some more, some less, containing altogether one hundred thirty and two villages in the said ten Gritenies▪ besides the town of Dockum which is the second town of that quarter of Ostergoe, whereof we will presently speak. In this town doth commonly reside the college of deputies for the Estates of the whole Province, consisting of the nobility and towns, which govern the whole Estate, as well for matters of policy and war, as for religion, who with the voices of the Gritenies, dispose of all Estates and Offices, both of justice, treasure and demains, as also of captains places, and others concerning the war and the Ecclesiastical Estate. There is also the mint for money for the whole country, both for gold and silver according to the order which the deputies for the Estates shall fet down: the which notwithstanding is subject to the generals of the mints of all the united Provinces, when need requires. The people there are as courteous, humble and affable, yea more than in any other town of the whole Province, or in Holland & Zeeland, although the Frisons have been held to be somewhat rude and incivil; the which appears contrary by the frequentation of learned men of the court of Parliament, & by the exercise of learning: for that there is not a Bourger, if he have any means, but he sends his children to school: The which is seen at this day by many learned men, whom I will not now flatter, for that they are yet living, as also by those which for their knowledge have been of great authority: Amongst which was George Ratalder, councillor to the King in the great council at Macklin, doctor in the laws, and a good Poet, who in the year 1566. was sent by the Duchess of Parma, Governess of the Netherlands, in embassage to the King of Denmark, for the affairs of the said countries. And since in regard of▪ his virtues and sufficiency, he was chosen Precedent of the Provincial council at Vtrecht. A league from this town is the village of Zuychem, famous at this day by the memory of Viglus Aita Zuychemus, in his life time Precedent of the council of Estate for the King of Spain at Brussels, whose wife being de●d, he was made a Bishop and Provost of Saint Bauon at Gant: where he built a goodly house, where one of his heirs lives whom I have visited within these ten years: He also erected a free school for a certain number of poor children and a schoolmaster, and beside s it an Hospital for old men and women of that village, the which are well lodged and entertained according to the capacity of the foundation. DOCKUM. IS the second town in all that quarter of Ostergoe, having a channel which goes unto the sea, and an other which leads unto Groaning, which is five leagues distant from thence, and eight from Franiker, whereas commonly the council or college of the Admiralty for the whole Province of Friesland doth remain. This town hath suffered much during the first troubles, as well in the Duke of Alva's time as afterwards, being sometimes forced to obey the one party and then the other; so as yet to this day there appear some ruins of this intestine war. I have not been in any town in Holland, whereas they live better cheap in their Inns then here, whereby we may judge how the Burghers do, which make their provisions at the best hand. I have found there learned men and very courteous, and it is famous for that it is the place where- Gemma Frisius was borne, whom in my youth I knew at Lowain a great Physician and Mathematicien, whereof his works give sufficient testimony. He died at Lowain in the year 1555. leaving one son called Cornelius Gemma Frisius, of the same profession that his father was. In this town is carefully kept and with great reverence, the book of the holy Evangelists, written by Saint Boniface himself, who was before called Winfrid, he who after Saint Willebroard (otherwise called Clement) did greatly augment the faith of JESUS CHRIST in Friesland, where afterwards he was made a martyr, with 52. of his companions, in Westfrisland: where they say there are yet some of that race which massacred them, who from their birth carry a white mark, or rather a tuft of white hair on their heads. They may go easily from this town by boat unto all the towns of Friesland, and by sea to all parts of the world. FRANIKER. THis is one of the most ancient and renownedst towns in Friesland, in the which not far from the port of Harlingen, there is a little castle, in the which Henry son to Duke Albert of Saxony was for a time as it were besieged by the other towns of Friesland, which he took so disdainfully., as he resigned all his interest in the said country to his Brother George, who since sold it to the Emperor Charles the fifth. Although that the castles of Leuwarden and Harlingen, were during the wars ruined, yet this being of small importance stands still; for that it hath no means to annoy the town, having no passage without it whereby they might give entry unto the enemy, but doth only serve for a gentleman's lodging. The town is seated in the quarter of Westergoe, which is the second part of Friesland, in the which besides Franiker there are eight towns more, which are, Harlingen, Bolswaert, Sneck, Ylstt, Worcum, Hindelopen, Staueren and Sloten, under which quarter there are eight Gritenies or Baylewycks, the which one with an other have 125. villages depending on them. It is a good town, being three quarters of an hours circuit, in which many gentlemen of the champain country make their residence, and some living in the country during the Summer, retire thither in the Winter. The Estates of Friesland desiring to provide for the instruction of their youth, have within these twenty years erected an university in the said town, with great privileges, the which makes it the more famous, in the which they entertain many professors in all faculties, with good pensions, which draws many scholars thither from all parts, even out of Poland and France: whereas the Estates of the country have a sworn printer. They of the Magistracy have of late years built a fair town house. It is two leagues from Leuwarden, and one from Harlingen, whether they may go in Summer both by water, and by waggon, but in Winter only by boat. BOLSWAERDT. IS a free Hans town, situated in the third division of the quarter of Westergoe, in a good country, a league equally distant from Sneck, Ylst and Worcom, a league and a half from Hindelopen, and two leagues from Staueren, Sloten, Franiker and Harlingen: three from Leuwarden, and five from Dockom, and so environed in a manner by all the towns in the country. It is a good town, with a channel which goes to all these other towns and villages: whereby the streets are always clean from filth, by reason that the rain doth cleanse them: it is equal with Sneck in bigness. The Inhabitants for the most part live of their handiworkes, merchandise, and navigations, trafficking for the most part with the Hamburgers. It hath a passage unto the sea by the Sluse of the village of Mackum, a league from thence, whereas the ships of the said town lie as safely as in a good haven. The Governors of the Estate of this town are called Bourguemasters, Aldermen and Council. The Bourguemasters and Aldermen have the administration of justice, being six in number. Two which are of the council have care of the works, reparations and entertainment of the fortifications and gates of the town, and meddle not with the justice, but their charge is also to look unto all crimes that are committed, and to deliver the offenders to the Officer, to be punished according to the exigence of the fact: which Regent's and Administrators receive their authority and commission yearly from the Governor and council of the Province. There was in old time three Monasteries in the town. The poor have good entertainment, the Orphins founded by Rhine, Bourguemaster of the town, the which was endowed with more living by Hyde the daughter of Hero, being a widow. Then the rich Hospital, whereas many poor people are fed all at one table, with their lodging. Then the poor Hospital, whereas many poor old people have every one a chamber a part and are entertained there with bread, beer, butter and firing, from whence the poor people of the town have once a week relief. This town is since the year of our Lord 1572. much increased, and well fortified as well in ports, ramparts, bulwarks, as otherwise. The Burghers have endured much, as well in their traffic at sea, as in lodgging of soldiers. This town hold a market every Saturday, whether the inhabitants of all the nearest towns and villages, Greteines or Baylewycks come and bring their merchandise and victuals, with greatstore of wildfowl & venison: they want no fish also, both from the fresh water and sea. The Bailiff of Wouseradeel comes thither every market-day, to hold his seat of justice, and to do right to all men of his jurisdiction, where the G●ieteman or bailiff doth preside, with his Assessors & jurats, having under them 29. villages, and two monasteries, that is the abbey of Fleurecampe of men▪ and one of women called Oogecloester, now ruined in these last wars, & their revenue applied to the common cause. Near unto this town is a village named Womels', famous for the birth of that learned man Cyprianus Womelius a doctor of the law and a great Poet, councillor in the Imperial chamber at Spyer. These of this town of Bolswart did many years since join themselves to the Hans towns o● Germany, with whom they are confederate, and are registered among the members thereof, enjoying the like privileges freedoms and exemptions of imposts and customs, as the other towns of Denmark, Sueden, Norway, Livonia, Prussia, East country, and other Principalities and commonweals. Having also their chamber or lodging of Esterlings in Antwerp, and at the Stylliard in London, the which is now out of use, which privileges the inhabitants of the said town enjoy, bringing only a certificate of their Bourgesie under the seal of the town of Bolswaert: The which was wont to yield them great profit in navigation and traffic: It was practised generally throughout all the Hans towns, the better to entertain their commerce, and mutual correspondency, and to train up their youth in the trade of merchandise, from one Province to an other, no married men being admitted in those places of London and Antwerp, only young men doing their own business or their Masters, so as they be members of this company. As for the foundation of this town of Bolswaert we find that it was built by the Lady Bolswine daughter to Radbod King of Friesland, in the year 713. which Lady was married to the Siegnior of Teekenbourg, issued from the Noble house of Dockenburg, the which of a castle was made a town, and is now called Dockum. This Lady being a widow, retired herself from Teekenburg, into this quarter of Friesland whereas King Radbod her father gave her a house of pleasure, and there she built a small town, which she called by her own name Bolswaert, for that it was seated in a half Island: the which the Danes and Normans did often ruin, yet in the end it became a good town of traffic. Being in that town it was told me that at that time of the foundation, the sea came up unto it, but since the land hath won much of the sea, so as it stays at the village of Mackum. STAVEREN. IT is the most ancient, and was in former times, the chief town of all Friesland, whereof we have sufficiently discoursed, of the same society and company, but more ancient than that of Bolswaert, whose privileges (especially their precedence at the Sound in Denmark before all other ships) we have made mention of before, being needless now to make any further repetition: it stands upon the sea on the South side, on the entry of the gulf of Zuyderzee, at the point which looks towards Holland, almost opposite to the passage of Enchuysen, half a league from Hinderlopen upon the same shore. It seems that this is the place whereas time the people kept, whom Pliny calls Sturi, of which name all Friesland was sometimes called Regnum Stauriae: Which Kingdom did extend to Nymegen, where was wont to be engraven on the East Port, hic limes Imperii, here is the bounds of the Empire, and on the West gate, Hic finis Regni Stauriae, here is the end of the Stauriens Kingdom: so as there is no doubt but heretofore it hath been a rich and mighty Town, but the tempests and Inondations of the sea have often annoyed it, and driven it farther into the country, being told me when I went to view it, that the old town was a League nearer to the Sea, and now in the bottom of the Sea: Besides certain bars of Sand have stopped the Haven, and taken away their navigation, as we have formerly observed. There was wont to be a strong Castle at the end of the town, looking towards the Sea and the Haven: But during these last troubles, the Captain which was put in guard there with a garrison, being besieged by the Estates, growing wilful and resolute to keep it, his soldiers having small hope of any succours, yielded up the place, and delivered their Captain to the Estates; who caused it to be presently razed, as we may see by a great part of the ruins. The town is long and narrow, enlarged and fortified with ramparts and bulwarks, but of small importance and ill entertained, as being held at this present time not greatly necessary: The houses in the great street are reasonable fair and well built, the Inhabitants live by their handy-workes and by the Sea, but not of such navigation and traffic as they were wont to have. HARLINGEN. IT is now a good and spacious town, and of good traffic, since that Gasper Robles Lord of Billy, Governor of the country of Friesland and Groaning, for the King of Spain caused the banks behind the Castle, to be repaired and enlarged, with great labour and cost, which doth now defend it from the tempests and waves of the sea which beat against it, which work the Inhabitants (notwithstanding the hard government of the said Robles) cannot sufficiently commend. The Estates of Friesland having since these last troubles resumed their liberty, have caused the said Castle to be ruined so far as it did overlook the Town, retaining the fortification which looks towards the Sea and the Banks, having in the same place where the ditch was drawn a goodly new Haven into the Town, which passeth under a great drawbridge, to go unto the Port and not far from it, whereas a great number of Ships may lie safely. The rest of the Town that is enlarged, is fortified with good ramparts and Bulwarks. There are two channels which coming from the sea to the old haven, pass through the town, whereof the one goes to Franiker a league from thence, from whence at all hours of the day Boats do go with passengers, at an easy rate. This town being thus situated upon the Sea, hath the best haven and nearest unto the sea of any other in all Friesland, where they are rich Merchants, who besides their ordinary trade in the country, adventure much in long voyages, for the which they make goodly ships. SNECK. IS a good little country Town, seated in a plain three leagues from Leuwarden, and one from Ilst: the which hath Deputies also at the Estates of Friesland: Heretofore it had goodly Cloisters, both within and without the town, the which at this day are all ruined and applied to other uses, and their revenues employed to the common cause, or to some works of Hospitality, Piety or Schools. It is honoured for that it is the place where Doctor Hopperus was borne, who hath written many goodly works with great credit, and hath joined practice & wisdom to his knowledge: for which respect he was first of the Prive Counsel for the King of Spain at Brussels, and from thence was called into Spain to supply the place of Tisevach Precedent of the Counsel of Estate for the Netherlands. SLOTEN. A Little town near unto the gulf of the Zuyderzee lying on the South part upon the sea, a league and a half from Staueren; it hath no other trade then Navigation, and that which depends on the sea. ILST. Stands upon the West, half a league from Sneeke, and upon the Nortwest a League from Bolswaert, on the South side as far from Sloten: It is an open town, yet hath it municipal laws, it is environed with a large ditch, which may defend it from the incursions of the enemies, or of any other insolent persons. It consists of two long ranks of fair houses, from the East unto the West: through the which doth pass a channel, the which on either bank is planted with high trees, which do beautify the town. There is but one Parish Church, which was wont to be a Covent of Carmelites; being ruined in these last troubles, but the Temple stands still. It appears by the Antiquities of Friesland, that in the year one thousand two hundred sixty three, this town was one of the most ancient of the country, famous for their Navigation and traffic. Now it is the Storehouse for ship-timber, for such vessels as pass from one place unto an other within the country, more than to any other town in Friesland. Albert Duke of Saxony, according to the Donation made unto him by the Emperor Maxmilian the first of the Hereditary government of Friesland, took possession of that town, as the whole jurisdiction of Westergoe▪ and moreover being near unto that of the seven Forests, after that he had razed the siege and freed his son at Franiker, he became in a manner Master of all Friesland. WORCUM. TO speak truly, is but a good Bourough, yet hath it the privileges of a Town joining upon the sea, entering into it by a great Scluse which pierceth the bank, a League from Bolswaert, from whence I have gone thither both by water and by land. It hath also a Channel from one end unto an other which goes unto the said Scluse. According to the situation it is a place which hath good means to live in, and good cheap. It is governed by Bourguemaisters and Aldermen, but for all matters of justice it resorts to the Provincial Council at Leuwaerden. HINDELOPEN. SO called by reason of the retreat of the wild beasts (at such time as Friesland was half Forest) which they do call Hinden in their country language, and Loopen which is to run, which is as much to say, as the course and recourse of Stags and Hinds: it was first a place for hunting, then by a little and a little made a Village, and the Sea eating up to it, which gave it a good road it became a Bourough, well known at this day, for their Navigation, which is the people's chief practice. Having described the two principal quarters of Friesland, that is Ostergoe and Westergoe, with their towns: we must now speak of THE SEVEN FORESTS. THis quarter so called by reason of the seven Forests which were wont to be there, but now turned for the most part into pasture and land for tillage, which make the third quarter of Friesland, consisting of eight Gretenies or bailiwicks, all which together have seventy five villages, among the which there are good Borroughs, the which jointly have their Deputies (be they Gryetmen or others) at the ordinary Assembly of the Estates of the said Province, in the town of Leuwaerden. These names should be troublesome to the Reader, by reason of the strangeness thereof. to set down in writing the appellations of all the Gretenies of the three quarters of Friesland, being in number 28. the which I cannot term more properly, than Bailywicks, & their Grietmen Bailiffs. There are some Islands depending upon Frisand, among the which Amelandt & Schellinck are the chief, the first belonging to a particular Lord, who during the troubles hath held it free and neural paying some contribution unto the Admiralty, of Dunkirk, so as the ships of the said Island might sail freely to all places, as also the Dunkirk might go and refresh themselves in the said Island. there are three good Villages in the said Island, besides Amelandt (whereas the Signior hath his lodging) recovered from the sea▪ The Estates of the said country have also within these thirty years a good portion of ground which they call the Bildt, which is now well defended with Dikes, and is made the fertilest quarter in all Friesland, where they have appointed a Bailiff or Receiver, for it is of great profit and revenue. There are in divers parts of Friesland turfs▪ some hard and firm, others more light, which make not so good coal as the first: and whereas they have no turfs, the Peasants use the dung of their cattle, with which they cut reeds very small, and mingle it together, and then they dry it for the Winter: they say that bacon dried with this fire, is more firm than any other. This Country yields many good and strong Horses, which are transported through all Europe: as also great Oxen and very fat. Their Kine are very fertile, the which do often bring forth two calves at once; & the ewes two or three lambs, and sometimes four together, where the Sheep are very big of body, but not so sweet and savoury as those of Berry, Arthois, Cempenie in Brabant, which have a dry feed, and are less. OVERYSSELL. THis Conty of overissel in former times under the principality of the Bishops of Vtrecht, was then called the high diocese, But sense that the Emperor Charles the fifth obtained from the bishop the temporality of both dioceses the higher and the lower; he made two Provinces, one of Vtrecht and the other of Ouerysel, the which are numbered among the 17. Provinces, and now under the union of the General estates of the confederate Provinces: who by arms have shaked of the Spanish yoke, and have purchased their liberty, which they enjoy at this day. This country is so called for that it lies beyond the rive of Yssel: this Dutch word Over, signifying beyond, and in Latin Trans, so as it was called Transissalana. On the north side it hath Friesland, and a part of the country of Groaning; on the South the Conty of Zutphen: to East the country of Westphalia, and upon the West the Zuyderzee. It is watered by many rivers, the Yssel, Vidre, Regge, Dan-noire and Wahal, besides the channels which are kept in by the Sluice: A good and fertile soil, and fat pastures, where they do yearly feed many fat cattle. There is abundance of good butter and cheese and all other sorts of victual. The whole Province is divided into three great bailiwicks; that is of Salandt, of the old Saliens: of Tuent, so called of the ancient Tubantins': and of Vollenhoven, which is in the midst of the other two, whereof the one bends to the North and the other to the South. The quarter of Salandt comprehends under it many good towns among the which are these three Imperial Hans towns. Deventer, Campen and Swolle: the lesser are Hasselt, Covoerden, Genemuiden, Ommen, Hardenbourg, Wilson and Graffhorst: That of Tuent hath the towns, of Oldenzeel, Otmarson, Enschede, Ghoor, Diyepenham, Delden, Risen, and Almeloo: The quarter of Vollenhoven hath a town of that name with a Castle which was wont to be the Bishop of Vtrechts Palace when they came into the high diocese: then the town of St●enwicke, to which the Cuyndert did belong, which was wont to be famous for the strength of the Castle, the which was ruined in these last wars. Among the fortified towns, besides the three Imperial Hans towns of Deventer, Campen and Swolle, are those of Hasselt upon Vidre (to distinguish it from Hasselt a good town in the country of Liege) Oldenzeel, Steenwick, Otmarsom and Enscheede. There are also a great number of castles and above 120. Borroughs and villages. The sovereignty of this Province, before the troubles in the Netherlands, did belong unto Philip the second King of Spain, who succeeded the Emperor Charles the fifth his father, who had the interest (confirmed by the Pope) from Henry of Bavaria Bishop of Vtrecht, upon certain conditions, the chief whereof was, that he should maintain their privileges; for want whereof and to free them from the oppression of the Spaniards, they have (as all the other united Provinces) freed themselves and recovered their liberty: whereof the people (as well as the Frisons) are wonderfully desirous, and impatient to bear the yoke. The said Province hath never acknowledged but two members in their government, that is, the Nobility, of the which are chosen the particular governors, and high officers, and they three Imperial towns, Deventer, Campen and Swoll, and no others. By the voices & suffrages of which two members, all difficulties in the Estate are decided: And whatsoever hath been decreed by them according to the constitutions of the country, shall remain firm and stable: And as the nobility in precedence yield not to any; no more do the towns, but in their order and degree: whereof Deventer is the first, than Campen, and last Swoll: every one of which towns judge by decree as well in civil as criminal causes; and either of them hath privilege to coin money. Let this suffice for a brief description of the Estate of the country of overissel: Let us now come to a particular description of the towns▪ DEVENTER. THE first of the three Imperial Hans towns is seated upon the right bank of the river of yssel three leagues from Zutphen, and four from Swoll. It was a goodly great town, and of great traffic before the last troubles: But the two sieges which they have been forced to endure with in these thirty years by the united Estates, hath much decayed it. The first time in the year 1578. when it was yielded to the Earl of Reneberg, Lieutenant for the said Estates and the country, since the earl of Leicester governor for the Queen of England Protectress of the united Provinces, gave the Government thereof to Sir William Stanley an English Colonel, who sold it to the Spaniard: So as it remained subject to the Spanish insolencies, from the year 1587., unto the year 1591. when as Prince Maurice went to besiege it with the said Estates, in the which Cont Harman Vanden Bergh, Cousin german to the Prince commanded, whom he forced to yield by composition, after a great battery; the ruins whereof will not be easily repaired in many years, especially towards the kaye. But whereas the cannon could not annoy them, it is well built, with fair high houses, the streets broad and clean with a fair market place, in the midst whereof is the house of the sworn companies, whereas a guard is kept day and night, before the great Collegiall Church is the townhouse which they call Raed huys that is to say, the council house, whereas the Bourguemasters and Senators do assemble daily to do justice to every man. The Magistrates there show themselves modestly grave, and the Burghers civil, among whom there are rich Merchants, by the traffic which they have of all sorts of Merchandise, as of merchandise, as well by Land into Westphalia and other places of Germany, as by the river of Yssel, which on one side mounts up the Rhin unto Cologne, and descends down before Campen to the Zuyderzee, unto Amsterdam, Horn, Enchuysen and other Towns of Holland and Friesland, Since it was last yielded, it is wonderfully fortified with ramparts and good Bulwarks, besides that it hath always had a double wall of Brick round about it. In old time when a matters succeeded not well in the diocese of Vtrecht, the Bishops retired themselves to Deventer, as we read of Bishop Baldric, who to fly the fury of the Normans and Danes which ruined the town of Vtrecht, retired with all his clergy to this town: then the Danes being chased away, he returned and repaired the Cathedral Church, which they had made a stable for their horses. In this town doth usually reside the Drossart (or great Bailiff) for the quarter of Salandt, whereof this is the chief town, and in the which there is great store of gentlemen. CAMPEN. THis is the second of three Hans towns in the Province of Ouerysell, although it be not like to all the rest, on the other side of the river of yssel, but on Gelder's side, it is a fair great town, of more length than breadth, the which after that it had been yielded unto the Earl of Reneberg in the name of the Estates, it was much better fortified then before. It hath agoodly bridge upon the river, at the end whereof they did then build a good fort to defend it; by which bridge they may go both on horseback, Wagon and foot, to all the towns of Ouerysel, Friesland and Groaning, or else if they will by the channels which run through the country. Having past this bridge, going towards Vollenhoven & Geelmuyden, you enter into a goodly great and spacious pasture, full of ditches, which they call Maester brouk, which yields as good butter and cheese as any part in Holland: besides, that in a short time it fat's a great number of goodly Oxen. This pasture hath at the least four leagues in circuit, from the bridge of Campen unto Geelmuyden along the river of Vidre, passing before the town of Hasselt, then passing on to Swolle, it returns from thence to Campen, which circuit is a half days journey. It is good cheap living in this town, there is abundance of fresh water fish and good cheap, as Salmon, Sturgeon, Carp, Barbels and Pikes. I did once buy three Carp there, either being a foot and a half long for six Patars a piece, the which tide to the bark, and swimming in the Zuyderzee, I brought a live to Amsterdam, All sorts of victual are good cheap there, especially fowls and Duck and Mallard. This town is full of Gentlemen and learned men: the houses are fair and high built, and streets very clean. It is much enlarged and beautified within these twelve or thirteen years. The Magistrates are affable and the people civil and courteous, whereas those that are fled thither for religion are kindly entertained, yea they are drawn thither to set up their trades, being very fit for it, for that the Merchants and workmen may go in one night with a good wind to Amsterdam, and going from thence at night, after the dispatch of their business, they may be the next day again at their own houses, which is a great commodity. This town hath privilege to coin money, and they carefully entertain a free school. SWOLLE. IS a land town, of a round form, situated upon a little Brook running into the river of Vidre, and from thence by the black water into the Zuyderzee: It is held to be strong, having ever had double walls and double ditches: since these troubles it hath been fortified with new ramparts and Bulwarks. In former times it was wont in time of danger to be the retreat of the Governor and of the Council of that country, who made his residence at Vollenhoven. It is good cheap living there, but the streets are not so clean kept as at Campen, by reason of the cattle which they keep within the town and the great multitude of Wagons which come thither from all parts; for it is of greater traffic than Campen. It hath not been any way annoyed by siege during these troubles, like to Deventer and Campen, being fallen into the Estates power, by the prevention of the well affected Burghers, who chased away them of the Spanish faction, whereby they are become rich. It hath two channels which pass through it, upon the greatest of them stands the Market place, which is fair and spacious, and joining unto it the great Temple of Saint Michael; then a little lower, is our Lady's Church. In honour of this Town these four latin verses were made. Swolla diu celebris meruit virtutibus arma, Quae populum fortem nobilitare solent: Ind salutifera vetere p●etate, fid que, In Tripolim recipi faedere digna fuit. Swolls virtue whilom got these arms, that grace, the undaunted troop that won them and their race: And for her faith and Martial brood, 't was she was only held fit guard for Tripoli. For that it is the third imperial Hans Town of this Province of overissel, having privilege to coin both gold and silver, as the two others, we have described these three chief Towns: let us now come unto the lesser, but strong and well fortified. STEENWYCK. IS situated upon a brook called Blockerzyel, coming out of the country not far from the town, and falls near unto Vollenhoven into the Zuyderzee; In less than twenty years it felt two sieges, the one by Charles Earl of Mansfeldt for the Prince of Parma, who was forced to retire, the town being victualled by Count William, Lewis of Nassau, Philippe Earl of Hohenloo and General Norris. Being afterwards surprised by the Spaniards, Prince Maurice went to besiege it in the year of our Lord 1592. the which he did so importune both by battery and mine, as (notwithstanding the great loss of his men, he himself being also shot, in the cheek,) he forced them to yield by composition. It is not ten years since the Spaniards made an other enterprise, but it succeeded not. It was much defaced by these two sieges, but it now begins to recover itself. HASSEL. THis town is called Hassel upon the Vidre, to distinguish it from Hassel near unto Tongre in the country of Liege: it is two leagues from Volenhoven, in ancient time a good and rich town by reason of the commodity of the river of Vidre which runs into the Zuyderzee, at Gheelmuyden, being mingled with the two little rivers of Regge and Veecht. It is at this day reasonably well fortified, but it hath no such traffic as it it was accustomed, yet it is a pretty town and well governed. OLDENZEEL. IS the town which they call in Latin. Veteres Salij, from whence some will maintain (but without any great ground) that the law Salic comes. It hath also felt the fruits of their last wars, having been besieged in the year of our Lord 1605. and yielded to the Marquis Spinola, for the Archdukes Albertus and Isabella of Austria, Dukes of Brabant Earls of Flanders etc. It is a reasonable great town and of good trade, where they make great store of fine linen cloth, which they sell in the Netherlands, and is sent into Spain. OTMARSUM. IS called in Latin Veteres Marsii, which are the old Marsians whom Pliny and Titus Livius do often mention, being seated in the country of the Tubantins, which at this present is Tuent, a quarter in the Provice of Oueryssel. It is a little town and of small importance, yet hath it thrice tasted the fruits of war, as well by siege as otherwise: Being unable to endure a long siege by reason of the weakness thereof, lying in an open country, whereas either party (being Master of the field) might easily cut off their victuals. In the year 1592. Prince Maurice took it in less than four and twenty hours, where as the Siegnior of Famas, General of the artillery for the Estates was slain, a gentleman much lamented by the Prince, and of all men of war of his party: within these three years the Marquis Spinola recovered it with as much ease. To conclude this town and Oldenzeel are so weak, as they must yield to the first enemy that comes with any force for to besiege them. ENSCHEDE. THis town is of reasonable good traffic, situated in the open country, in the quarter of Tuent, a league from Oldenzeel, and two from Otmarsum: it felt in the year 1597. the weight of Prince Maurices forces, to whom it was forced to yield by composition, at the same time when as Grolle, Brefort, Lingen and others were taken. VOLLENHOVEN. WAs not 30. years since a good town, lying upon the gulf of the Zuyderzee. two leagues from Steenwyck. It was wont to have a fair, great and pleasant castle, which was the court of the Princes, Bishops of Vtrecht, when as they came into the high dioceses, and therefore it was a town renowned, where there was good commodity of victuals, brought thither both by water and by land: And moreover after that the temporal Estate of Vtrecht came unto the Emperor, the Governor of the Province and the council made their residence there. But the last troubles have greatly impaired it, and the castle is ruined. GHEELMVYDEN. HAth run the same fortune that Vollenhoven, from whence it is a league distant, and as much from Hassel, that stands upon the Gulf of Vidre, towards the Zuyderzee, having towards the land the pleasant pastures of Maesterbrouck, in like manner a league from Campen. The castle wherein the King of Spain was wont to keep a garrison, hath been also ruined. MEPPEL. THis town is seated upon a little brook, which near unto Gheelmuyden falls into the Vidre. It was never of any great importance, and now it is in a manner all ruined. HARDENBERG. WAs in ancient time a good town upon the same river of Beecht, where there was wont to be a good castle, whereas the Bishops of Vtrecht took great delight, for that it stood in an open country. It is midway betwixt Coeworden and Ommen, both the town and castle are to this day almost ruined by these last wars. COEWARDEN. BEfore the last siege which Prince Maurice of Nassau laid before it, the which he took by composition, it was but a little base town, commanded by a great and strong castle. The Drossart hearing of the Prince's approach, caused the said town to be burnt and ruined, to the end the enemy should have no commodity to lodge there: yet he did so press this town both by battery and mine, as the Drossart was forced to yield it; some two months after the taking of Steenwyck by the said Prince, lying in the same country of Oueryssel, in the year 1593. Cont Herman vanden Berghe and Verdugo went to besiege it, but when as they saw, they could not prevail any thing, neither by battery nor mine, having changed their first resolution, and thinking to famish it in time, they stopped up all the passages with forts, so as nothing could enter into it: yet the Prince's men that were in garrison within the castle, maintained themselves with great constancy and resolution a whole winter; until the Spring, when as the Prince came with a good army to victual it in despite of all these forts: which Cont Herman and Verdugo seeing, abandoning all their forts or burning them, they retired: wherefore the Prince having victualled it at ease, and supplied it with fresh men, the same Summer, being in the year 1597. he went to besiege the town of Groaning, the which he took, as we will show hereafter. Since the Estates have given order for the repairing of the town, for that it is a good passage to go by land into Friesland, the countries of Groaning, Westphalia, Breme and other places. RYSSEN. IS seated upon the river Regge, the which runs into Vidre at Hessel, and passing from thence before Gheelmuyden, it falls into the Zuyderzee. It is so little and at this day so deformed, as it merits not the name of a good town. DIEPENHEM. Upon the same river of Regge, it is a league or little more from Ryssen, and two leagues from Enschede. At this present it is but a Bourrough, although with all the small towns, it hath the privileges of a town. GHOER. IS a Borough standing upon a brook which runs into Regge at Diepenhem, from whence it is a league distant. It hath during these wars had a great fort, which was always taken, when as either party was master of the field. DELDEN. THis was wont to be a good town, and of traffic but now is much decayed by reason of the last wars; having been subject to the passing and lodging of soldiers of either party, for (as I have said) he that was master of the field, was always master of those petty places. AMELOO. IS built upon a brook coming from Oldenzeel, the which two leagues from thence falls into the Vidre, it is at this present but a Bourg. WILSEN. IS at this day but a village, seated upon the way as you go from Campen to Swolle, yet hath it the privileges of a town, and is numbered among the lesser towns. GRAFFHORST. IS situated upon the gulf of the river of Yessl, entering into Zuyderzee, half way betwixt Campen and Gheelmuyden. It is but a small village, not so good as Wilsen, yet hath it the title and rights of a town. All this is comprehended in the country of Oueryssel, which is the seventh in rank of the eight united Provinces of the Netherlands, which have recovered their liberty by arms, and acknowledge at this day no Sovereign Prince but the general Estates of the said union: which eight Provinces are, the Duchy of Geldres, the Earldoms of Holland, Zeeland and Zutphen, the Siegneuries of Vtrecht, Friesland, Oueryssel and Groaning. West-Frisland (whereof they might make a Province by itself) is comprehended under the county of Holland, who give it the name of Noort-holland; which the West-Frisons will not willingly hear of▪ for they have their particular Estates, Admiralty, Officers and mint. Prince Maurice of Nassau hath this Province of Oueryssel, under his government, with Geldre, Holland, Zeeland, Zutphen and Vtrecht. The assembly of the Estates of the said Prounice, both general and particular is diversly made, according to the ancient customs & pre-eminences of every quarter, not tied in that regard to any towns, but according their order and rank; the deputies changing often. I have seen them held in a country house. Wherefore we cannot specefie any certain place of their assembly, by reason of their often change. Yet there remains a certain form of a college of Estate in the town of Deventer: But it cannot resolve of any affairs of importance, which must be referred to the assembly of the Estates for the whole Province, wheresoever it shallbe held. Yet when as the affairs shall tend to the good or prejudice of the generality of the union, they must refer them to the assembly of the general Estates of all the united Provinces, the which is commonly kept at the Hage in Holland. Groningue with the Ommelands. THe Estate of the town of Groningue, and the Ommelands (which are country jurisdictions consisting of many good Borroughs Villages, abbeys and Monasteries) are situated betwixt the rivers of Ems and Lanwers, and make a Siegneury or Province, which is numbered among the 17. of the Netherlands, and the eight in rank of the united Provinces: which are represented and governed by the common consent of the Estates of the said Province. Before that we treat of this Estate in general, we will first speak of the town of Groningue, which gives the name unto the whole Province: which name some hold was given it by Grunnius, issued from the blood of the Kings of Friesland, who was the founder, and not that Trojan of whom Sebastian Munster speaks. This town is seated in a pleasant soil, environed with goodly pastures, some thinking that it hath taken the name from the greene's thereof; this word of Groen signifying green, Ingen being as an adjective which makes up the word, whereof there are many both in this and other Provinces of the Netherlands, as Husinghe, Finelinghe & others in the country of Groeningue; Harlinghe in Friesland, Vlaerdinghe in Holland, Flissinghe in Zeeland, Poperinghe in Flanders and others else where. This town with the dependences, was heretofore given to the Bishops of Vtrecht in the year 1057. by the Emperor Henry the third and others going before him, and by their successors, (since that the Normans destroyed the town of Vtrecht): whereof they gave letters of Estate to the said Bishops, of the which they have always made use, until the end of the last age. The which notwithstanding was often taken from them, as well by the Groningers themselves, as by the Princes which have seized upon that Siegneury: amongst others Albert and George Dukes of Saxony, who had the gift from the Emperors Frederic and Maximilian, and Edsard Earl of Embden, whom they accepted for their Lord, all which did not acknowledge the Bishops of Vtrecht. This town is enriched with two small rivers, Huneso and Aha, coming out of the country of Drenthe, through the Ommelands the which compassing about the town, meet in the suburbs which is called Schaytendyep, from whence passing by the town of Dam, with other small brooks which join there, they fall by the Sluices of Delfzyele into the Dullart, which is of the river of Ems: by the which all ships both great and small take their course, to join with the greater, which anchor upon the Dullart, and so to go from thence to sea whether they please. There were wont to be twelve churches in this town, whereof three were parish churches: the first was Saint Martin's, the second Saint Walburge (which Temple hath the form of a Mosque, which they say was built by Pagans, the Parish being now annexed to that of Saint Martin), and the third is that of our Lady, joining to one of the Market places. Other five are Monasteries, and the four which remain Hospitals: among the cloisters that of Franciscains, being in the midst of the town, is converted to a college for scholars, for the study of humanity, whereof at my being there, doctor Vbbo Ems was Rector, the other cloisters & monasteries are applied to better uses, then to feed idle bellies. The four hospitals are entertained, whereof the first, which is great like a parish, is called of the Holy Ghost, the second Saint Gheertruyde: the third Saint james, and the fourth Saint Anthony. There are in this town two goodly market places, the one for the greatness, was called Dat-brede marked, very great and spacious, the like whereof is not be seen in any other town, beginning from Saint Martin's churchyard, going toward the west, at the end whereof is the townhouse: near unto it is the other marketplace not much less, which goes to our Lady's church, which they call Ter Aha, or fish market; At which two market places (which is a goodly thing to see) there meet 17. of the greatest streets of the town: whereof six go to several gates, (being eight in all) that is to Poel port, Ooster port, Herens port, Ter Aa port, Botteringe port, & Ebbing port, which gates are called by the name, of the said streets: The Spaniards in the Duke of Alva's time did build a Citadel at Herens port, which the Burghers did ruin, when as Gaspar of Robles, Lord of Billy, a Spaniard, Governor of the town, was detained prisoner by his own soldiers and the town reduced under the union of the Estates, but afterwards it was treacherously yielded unto the King of Spain by George of Lalain, Earl of Rheneberg, with the murder of the Burguemaster and some Burghers: until the year 1594. that Prince Maurice of Nassau did force it by a siege and furious battery to submit itself under the obedience of the said general Estates, as it continues unto this day with the Ommelandes. This town hath between Poel port and Steeneille port, a goodly suburbs with a channel, where the ships arrive which come from Dam, Delfziell and other places of the country, with turfs and all sorts of provision, necessary for the town which suburbs are so fortified as the Inhabitants think themselves as safe there as within the town: it is called Schuytendiep. Within these ten years the general Estates (for some jealousy which they had of the said town) as well for fear of intelligences of some Burghers with the Spaniards, as also to take away all occasion for Enno Earl of East- friesland to attempt against the said town, caused a citadel to be built, in the which they entertained an ordinary garrison the which kept the mutins in awe. There is yet an other suburb rampared like unto a fort, at the Port Ter Aa; an other at the Port of Botteringe, and an other beyond the Citadel, all which suburbs have much endured during the siege, and in the last wars; as many goodly houses of pleasure, as well of gentlemen, citizens, as rich farmers, most part ruined do yet smart for it. Finally the situation of this town is such, that as they may carry and transport whatsoever they please by water: so may they also do by land at all seasons of the year, by the Drenth and other neighbour places to the frontiers of Germany, which brings great profit to the town. As for the Ommelandes, that is to say, the champain country thereabouts, which consists of many good Bourges and villages, although they be not subject to the town, yet by a mutual accord, there is such unity among them, as in many things, they have yielded unto the town; as the right of the market, the staple of merchandise sold by great or by retail, to sell no strange beer nor ale throughout all the country, but only such as they do brew within the town: the which is set down at large in the letters of the statute, in the year of our Lord 1455. renewed and augmented in the year 1482. And the chief point wherein the Ommelands have yielded unto the town, the which they have enjoyed for these many years, is touching matters of justice, by the which the wise men of the country are governed, Inferior judges kept in awe, the jurisdiction maintained, the pride of the rich and mighty restrained, and the Edicts belonging to the commonweal, concerning their authority published. For the which the Magistrate or Senate of the town choose five honourable persons fit for those charges to be renewed every year, if for their sufficiency and merits they be not continued two or three years, these are called Hoft-mannem, they are seldom chosen if they have been Bourgue-maisters, Senators or of the council. These five Hoft-mannem took knowledge of all things were it by themselves alone or jointly with the Senate. Their Court was called, their judicial chamber, their authority was great over all the champain country: which by little and little did extend beyond the river of Lan●vers: and then into Ostergoe and Westergoe, two chief Cantons of Friesland, whereby there grew great quarrels betwixt the Groningers and Frisons: yea among the Frisons themselves, divided into those two cursed factions of the Schyeringers and Wetcoopers. To pacify the which the Emperor Frederick the 3. sent Otto van Langhen a Chanoine of Ments and his councillor into Friesland: but he returned without any effect, by reason of the wilfulness of the Schieringers. The Emperor Frederick dying soon after, Maximilian the first his son, succeeded in the Empire, who sent the same Otto van Langhen again into Friesland, with an ample commission, giving them authority (as they had before time) to choose a Potestate, (which is as much to say as a Provincial Governor) and to settle the Frisons in their ancient liberties: whereby the Groeningers had been excluded from the confederation which they had with them of Ostergoe and Westergoe. But although the Frisons were well inclined to this Election of a Potestate, (wherein they proceeded so far, as there was one chosen of the chief of their Nobility and well qualified) yet one of the factions held him for suspect, either party desiring to have one of his league, whereupon their hatred did so increase, as Otto prevailed no more than at the first, which made the Emperor Maximilian to give the government Hereditary of Friesland and Groningue to Duke Albertus of Saxony; as we showed in the description of Friesland. Duke Albertus having afterwards broken this confederation betwixt them of Groening and Friesland; over whom he held himself half Master, seeking to dispose of all things at his pleasure, as well within the town of Groening as in the Ommelands, where he pretended an absolute superiority: which they being unwilling to yield unto, he went to besiege the town of Groening, the which after a long siege, having endured many Indignities from Duke Albertus, and fearing in the end a bad issue of this war, they did call in and receive for their Protector Hereditary, Edsard Earl of Embden, or rather of East-Frisland (Lieutenant at that siege to the Duke, but discontented with Colonel Vyt) upon certain conditions, amongst others, to build a fort or blockhouse, the which was done. The Duke seeing himself deceived by the Earl, and disappointed of so goodly a prey, meant for the recovery thereof to employ all his means, holding the Frisons to be half vanquished. The Groeningers seeing the Emperor to embrace the Duke's quarrel, and that there was a proscription sent out by the Empire against Cont Edsard, who could hardly free himself, & much less protect them: rather than to fall under the proud government of the Saxons, they called in Charles Duke of Geldre, a Prince that was stirring & high minded to undertake their protection, & upon the same conditions that they had received Cont Edsard only the fort which he had built should be razed, the which the Geldrois (to augment his Signeuries) would not neglect, sending the Signior of Oyen to take possession: and thus the town and state of Groaning fell into the hands of the Geldrois which was the cause of great wars betwixt the two Dukes of Saxony and Geldres. The Geldrois being put in possession of the town in the year, 1518. and of the Ommelandes, 1521. (as such an active spirit cannot contain himself within his bounds) he began soon after to attempt as well up on the rights of the town as the privileges of the Ommelandes, The Groningers having discovered his practices with Captain Meinard van Ham, for the King of Denmark, upon the town of Dam, which is of their jurisdiction, the which he pretended to fortify to keep Groening in subjection, and then to do all things at his pleasure. They seeing themselves thus circumvented, and knowing the duke's intention, grew cold in their affection which they did first bear him, turning it to the house of Bourgongne, whereupon having resolved with the consent of the Ommelands they did write unto George Schencke, Baron of Tautenburg, knight of the order of the Golden-fleece, governor of Friesland for the Emperor Charles the fifth according to the resignation which the Duke of Saxony had made unto him, to which effect the said Seignor Schencke (having received commission from the Lady Mary Queen of Hungary, sister to the Emperor) marched with all the forces he could thither, where he entered in june in the year. 1536. and there received their oath of fidelity, in the Emperor's name, as Duke of Brabant, Earl of Flanders, Holland, Zeeland, etc. Lord of Friesland and Ouerissel, but upon certain conditions, that the members and state of the signory of Groaning should hold their privileges, right and statutes, as they had received them from their ancestors: that the town should hold their ancient Preture and the foreign: that they should build a palace in the town for the Emperor fit for a Prince, but without any fortification: the forts in the country should be razed, & no new built, if necessity did not require it for the defence of the country and of the town, out of whose revenues there should be yearly paid unto the Emperor & to his successors 12000. crowns, upon which condition Philip K. of Spain was receivedin january. 1550. Among all the privileges of the said town, they have one very notable, which came from their ancestors, with an inviolable continuation, which is; That no King▪ Prince, Estate nor commonweal, can call any Bourger or Citizen of that town into justice, nor cause him to be cited or adjourned before any court, but only before the Senate or his ordinary judge: moreover that no man might appeal from any sentence that were given, either in civil or criminal causes, neither from the court of Hoffman's or judicial chamber, in that which concerns their jurisdiction, from the which no man of what quality so ever may decline▪ moreover the town is Lady and mistress of her own laws and statutes, the which by a sovereign power they may make and undo, create and abrogate without the authority of any person. The Estates of the Ommelands have also the like authority in their regard. The town hath had a privilege to coin silver and copper for these four hundred years, and gold since the year. 1474. The Magistracy of the town consists as it hath done time out of mind, of four Bourgue-maisters and twelve Senators (but of late days, for before they were wont to have 16.) which are the head of the commonweal, all having equal voices, but not equal in dignity and authority. This Senate takes knowledge of all that concerns the town: they have power to choose the Hoftmen or Praetors of the country & to send ambassages where need should require: to conclude, their duty is to provide both in general & particular for the good of the common weal. Their charge is for two years and they are created with such order as every year eight are deposed, and other eight subrogated in their places, among the which I comprehend the Bourguemaister. After the Senate and Hoftmen, there is within the town a college of 24. men, chosen out of the best families, which they call the sworn councillors for that from year to year they bind themselves by oath to the Commonweal of Groaning, without whom the Senate cannot resolve of any matters of importance, concerning the whole commonweal as to undertake a war, or to give it over; to contract alliances, make laws or to break them, build new forts or other public works: change their money; bring the town in debt or chtage it with rents otherwise: To treat of which things, the senate causeth them to be called, which have been deposed, whom they call the old senate: and sometimes they call some of the best citizens of the town, as the Deans or master of the chief trades, men of great credit among the people. This college of four and twenty sworn men, hath as it were a triumvirate, which speaks for them all, and bind themselves by oath unto the Senate, to procure the towns good, and to make a faithful report of all, the which may properly be called Tribunes of the people. There are many other offices in the town, serving for the entertainment and preservation thereof: as Provosts of the wacth, Masters of quarters: Heads, Captain or Deans of the sworn companies, whom the Senate doth choose for life: Masters of works, overseers of the weights and measures for bread and beer. To conclude, it seems there wants nothing for a well governed commonweal. The manner of choosing the Magistrate in that town is as followeth. One half of the council which are sixteen and of the twenty four sworn men are yearly deposed, whose places are filled by five personages well qualified among the twenty four jurats whom the Governor of the Province doth name, which five do choose out of all the town eight new councillors, to fill up the places of them that are deposed, which eight newly chosen, with eight old remaining, chose four Bourgue-maisters, moreover the Governor names (besides the twenty four sworn men) five other men who choose twelve among the commons of the town, to fill up the place of twelve that were deposed, so the twelve new jurats with the of the old remaining, make up the number of twenty four, all which together choose the three Tribunes. There is also in that town an ordinary free school or rather a college, which is very famous by reason of Doctor Vbbo Emmius, an excellent Historiographer, who was Rector and governed it: of whose writing we have for the most part made use, in the description of Friesland. The Ommelands are divided into three quarters; the Fevelingo, Himsing, and the west quarter, every one having their privileges written in divers Seigneuries, as places of judgement, which they call Redgerrechten, Gretenies or Baylewiks, whereof the bourguemasters, and council of the town have some, and the Nobles or proprietaries of the said town and Ommelands have the rest: in the which the Redgers, Gryetmen or Bailiffs take knowledge both of civil and criminal causes, and determine of them according unto equity and justice, from which sentences in every jurisdiction & signory, touching the right thereof duties, Inheritances, mortgages by writing or otherwise, they may appeal before the assembly, which they call Varwen, composed of a Lieutenant, four Capitoux, with their Assessors, Redgers, Nobles, Proprietaries, Grietmen or Bailiffs. In other causes not concerning the matters above specified, in case of appeal, they go unto the Lieutenants and Captains of the town of Groaning, as the chief, and of the Ommelands, who in such cases judge also by decree, (as we have said) without any appeal, evocation or remission: Being always to be understood, that the said lieutenant: who is chosen by the Estates of the town & country, and the 4. Capitoux by the Burguemasters and council, may not meddle with the superintendency, nor the politic government of the Ommelands, but according to the commission, oath and instructions which they have from the Estates chosen by the town and county: In the name and behalf of the sovereignty of the whole Estate, and Siegneury, they may administer justice, according to the right & ancient customs of the Province. By the which Lieutenant & Capitoux, in virtue of a certain grant made by the Emperor Charles the 5. in 1538. unto them of Wed & Westuveldinger-landt, even in cases of appeal all matters within the said quarters of Wed and Westuvoldinger-landt, are decided, without any further evocation, provocation or revision. Of this town doth merely depend the town which they call. THE DAM. THis town is two leagues from Groaning, in ancient time a good town of traffic, as being the Sluse to go to the sea, the which is now at Delfzyel (for that which they call Zyel or Dametas is all one, signifying a Sluse) but since the year 1536. being taken by assault for the Imperialists, when as the Geldrois did hold it, the walls were demanteled: and then it was accorded that it should not be lawful for the Groningers to wall it in any more, nor to make any fort. The which notwithstanding could not be observed, for since the last wars, it hath been fortified, and taken and retaken again. Now it lies open, yet holding the form of a town, through the which passeth the channel which goes to Delfzeyl, and from thence by the same Sluices to the Dullart, or into the river of Ems. DELFZYEL. IS at this present a great and mighty fort in form of a town, much greater than before: for many years since there was one, but it hath been often ruined and repaired again: It was concluded betwixt the Emperor and the Groeningers, that this fort should be razed, and that they should not build any one there, or in any other place without the consent of both parties, yet in these last wars they have suffered both that and others to be built, whereof some are ruined as unprofitable, some are yet standing, which in time may be also razed. But that of Delfzyel, for the greatness: number of inhabitants, strength and commodity, standing upon the Dullart, is likely to stand still, and in time to become a good town of traffic, yet under the subjection of the Groningers. This is all we can say in brief of the town, Estate and commonweal of Groaning and their Ommelands; yet we may not forget that out of this town are come great and learned men: among others Rodolphus Agricola, of whom that great Erasmus of Rotterdam, gives an honourable testimony, for that he was expert in the Greek, eloquent in the Latin, an excellent Orator; a good Poet, a subtle Philosopher, a perfect Musician, being able to make Musical instruments himself as he did the Organs of the great Church and others, of whom also that most learned Hermolaus Barbarus doth make mention in an Epitaph which he compounded upon his untimely death, which was in the forty year of his age, in the city of Heidelberg, in the year 1585. where the Precedent Viglius Aita of Zichem passing that way, as one honouring the memory of his countryman, he caused a fair stone to be set upon his tomb, and the Epitaph of the said Hermolaus graven thereon, as followed. Inuida clauserunt hoc marmore, Fata Rudolphum, Agricolam, Frisij, spemque, decusque soli, Scilicet hoc vivo meruit Germania laudis, Quicquid habet Latium, Grecia quicquid habet. The glory of the Frisons show is gone, through envious fate, and lieth within this stone: Rudolph Agricola, whose life did see, All Europe's praise deserved by Germany. In this town, and in Agricolas time was also borne, the learned Wessel Basillius an excellent Philosopher who died in the year, 1489. who we may say, were the two stars of Groaning. Towns and places out of the eight Provinces, yet comprehended under their union. Having described as particularly as we could, the estate of the said eight united Provinces, the situations, the commodities, the traffic and the ornamants of every one of the towns, & the forts comprehended within them, and which are of their jurisdiction, although that the general estates, have not all at their commandment; as there are some in Gelder's and beyond the Rhine, held by the Archduke Albertus and Isabella of Austria, yet the united Estates have the greatest part and the chiefest places under their obedience: we must now also described the towns and forts, which they hold in those Provinces, which are under the said Archdukes, especially in the Duchy of Brabant, and Conty of Flanders, gotten by arms, the which they keep. First. In the Duchy of Brabant. BERGEN UP ZOOM. WE place this town first of all those which the united Estates hold in Brabant, for that it is made a Marquisate, although that Breda be one of the first Baronies of the Duchy: This town hath a good haven, at the mouth whereof there is a mighty fort which defends it: it is right against Tertolen one of the islands of Zeeland. Before the town of Antwerp was in credit, and that Bruges began to decay, it had the chief trade for Merchandise. There were wont to be goodly buildings, the which being abandoned in these last war by their proprietaries, and remaining as it were desert, they have served to no other use but to lodge soldiers, and are much decayed. It hath been always a good garrison for soldiers, who went to seek there fortunes far and near, to the gates of Antwerp, and as far as Luxembourge, bringing home often times very good booty, with whom the Burghers, Innkeepers and Taverners did so well agree as they reaped great benefit by the soldiers. This town hath constantly maintained the party of the general Estates of the united Provinces, sense the time that it was yielded in the year 1577. by the Germans, who delivered up their Colonel Fronsbergh with the town unto the general Estates. In the year 1588. the Duke of Parma came to besiege it with a mighty army, thinking to take the great fort by practice with an Englishman, but he was disappointed of his purpose, and was forced to retire with dishonour and loss: And in the year, 1605. the Marquis Spinola, Lieutenant to the Archdukes, made two furious attempts, the which in a manner succeeded, but they were repulsed by the valours of the Burghers and soldiers with great loss. Although it be under the obedience of the united Estates, yet do they retain still their ancient rights and privileges. BREDA. IS a fair great town, with a pleasant Castle joining unto it; which was wont to be the Palace whereas the Earls of Nassau held their Court, as the deceased William of Nassau Prince of Orange, did for a time for it is but twelve leagues: from brussels. It was wont to have a goodly Heronrie in the great Churchyard, but now they are dispersed, yet there are some of them remain still behind the Castle. Colonel Foucker with his Germans, having escaped out of Antwerp in the year 1577. he retired into this town, whereas Philip Earl of Hohenloo went and besieged him, in the Prince of Orange's name (the town being his patrimony) and for the United Estates: the which the soldiers delivered unto the Estates, with their Colonel, as they had done Fronsbergh at Berghen up Zoom, under whose obedience it did continue, until that the Baron of Fresin being prisoner in the Castle having corrupted some soldiers, found means in the year 1580. to deliver it to the Duke of Parma: from whom it was recovered in the year 1590. by a hardy and dangerous enterprise which Chaptaine Charles of Heraugiere a gentleman of Cambray, serving under Prince Maurice, made with 72. resolute soldiers, who being hidden in a boatefull of turfs, in a thousand dangers of their lives, having entered at noon day into the castle, without descovery the night following they surprised it, cutting the Corpse de guard in pieces, & giving entry unto the Prince and the Earl of Hohenlo, with their troops, which lay not far of: which the Captains of the garrison seeing, fled, and the town was also yielded by composition, since which time, the town hath continued under the obedience of the Prince and the said Estates, who made Herauguiere governot as a recompense of his valour, and gave good reward unto the soldiers with promise of advancement, as most of them have had upon the first changes. STEENBERGHEN. IS a little town betwixt Berghen up Zoom, and Breda, along the sea-coast, the which the Spaniard did hold, until the year 1590. when as Charles Earl of Mansfeldt, by commandment from the Duke of Parma, went to besiege the fort of Sevenberghe, the which he battered, and did what he could to take it, but finding he should profit nothing, he retired. The Prince hearing that the fort was thus freed, he went to besiege this town of Steenberghen, the which he forced to yield by composition, and since it hath continued under the obedience of the united Estates. WILLEMSTADT. THat is to say William's town, built within these 30. years, by William of Nassau, Prince of Orange who gave it that name. It is in the Island of Rogheville, which is in the duchy of Brabant, a good and a strong town, at this time almost all built. It serves as a Rendezvous to the Estates army, when they have any incursion or enterprise to make; at it was at the enterprise of Breda whom it doth much import, as well as the town of Dordrect to have it well kept: whereof the Estates do entertain a sufficient garrison there, with a Governor, Sergeant Maior and other Officers. CLVYNDERT. IS a good bourg in the Duchy of Brabant whereas the Estates have built a mighty fort, where for the importance thereof they entertain an ordinary garrison, with a Captain, superintendant, and other officers. LILLO. IS a mighty fort upon the river of Escault, within three leagues of Antwerp, not far from the gulf of the said river, built within thirty years. It is a place of great importance, to stop the navigation to Antwerp: which the Colonels and Burghers of the said town, (during the time they were under the union) did carefully (and to their great charge) preserve. And when as the Duke of Parma did resolve to besiege it, they did reinforce the garrison, and sent the Seignor of Teligny, Son to Mounsieur de la Nove to command their, and Colonel Godin to provide for all things before the coming of Colonel Mondragon Captain of the Castle of Antwerp: who having besieged it, and seeing no means to cut of their succours by water, after that he had spent some cannon shot, he raised his camp and retired. It hath continued ever sense unto this day under the obedience of the united Estates, who in my opinion will not suffer it to be ruined by the peace, but rather to convert it to a good town, the which in time, in steed of a place for war, may have good trade of merchandise, and prove rich, being seated upon so goodly a river and so near the gulf thereof towards the sea, right opposite to another fort which the Estates now hold on Flanders side called Lyefsken hook. TERHEYDEN. IS a fort at the mouth of the river, the which coming from Breda falls there into the sea. It was first built by the Spaniards, but the town of Breda being surprised, and won (as we have said) Prince Maurice (to the end that town should not be bridled on that side) went to besiege it until it was yielded unto him by composition, the which he caused to be presently raised. For all which towns and places, together with their Baylewickes' and jurisdictions, there is a form of council of Brabant at the Hage in Holland, before the which there is appeal from subalternal and inferior judges. Towns and Forts which the Estates hold in Flanders. SLUCE. THis town is a good port of the sea, the which during the prosperity and traffic of the town of Bruges, some 100L. years since. when as the nations flourished there was their Magasin or Stoor-house, as their great and goodly Caves do witness, serving for the wines that came from Spain, the Canaries and France. For Flissing (which is but three leagues distant) was then but a village, and Middelbourg no great matter; the whole traffic at that time was either at Bruges or at Berghen up Zoom, and since at Antwerp. Since the pacification of Gant, until the year 1587. this town was under the obedience of the Estates, entertained, with a good garrison, whereof the Siegnior of Groenevelt was Governor. But the same year the Duke of Parma went to besiege it with all his forces, the which notwithstanding his continual battery, mines and furious assaults, was for a long time valiantly defended. In the end seeing no hope of any succours, which they had expected from the Earl of Leicester (Lieutenant for the Queen of England in the united Provinces) and from the Estates, they were forced to yield it upon an honourable composition, for want of munition and other necessaries. Since which time, this town did much annoy the Estates, especially the Zelanders, by the means of ten Galleys which Don jeromino Spinola, brother to the Marquis Spinola brought out of Spain, with the which he did often affront the ships of Holland and Zeeland, until in the end he was slain in a sea fight, with great loss of his men & spoil of his Galleys, the which being repaired, sought still to cut off the victuals and succours which the Estates sent to Ostend, during the time of three years & three months, that the Archduke Albert and the Marquis Spinola held it besieged, the which in the end he took by an honourable composition: after that by an other siege Prince Maurice had forced them of the garrison of Sluse to yield by composition, being priest by famine: which town he took without battery or any other force, with all the Galleys and other ships, setting the slaves at liberty, with many other forts of importance, as you shall hear, whereas the Archduke on the other side got nothing but a heap of stones and earth, there remaining no form of a town at Ostend, but only the ramparts. Thus was Sluse reduced under the Estates command, much against Spinolas mind, who attempted twice to relieve it, but in vain. It was yielded unto them a month before Ostend, which from that time was unprofitable unto them and of great charge, seeing they had Sluse, so as their gain was much greater than their loss. For they did win at one instant the Islle of Cadsandt, and all the other forts opposite to the haven of that town, than ARDENBOURG. WAs wont to be a pretty country town, about the which and in the Island of Cadsant they did breed good horses, whereof there was twice a year a fair at this town. But these civil wars by the breach of dykes and inondations, have spoiled much of the country. Prince Maurice besieging Sluse, did also besiege this town, the which was yielded unto him, and is now stronger than ever. YSENDYCK. IS a mighty fort on Flanders side, right against Flisingue, standing toward the Sas of Gant & Bocholdt, whereas the Archduke, for the importance of the place, did continually entertain a great garrison both of foot and horse, to stop the incursions of them of Flissingue & Berghen up Zoom in that quarter of the Wast of Flanders. And although he did much rely in his fort, imagining it could not be easily taken: yet notwithstanding that there were 800. men in the fort, Prince Maurice besieged it, battered it, and forced it to come to composition in less than eight days, before he gave any assault. Since the Estates have enlarged it, & it is now like unto a town; likely in time to be of good traffic, for that the haven is able to contain many ships of 4. or 500 tuns a piece, being well situated upon the sea, wherefore in my opinion the Estates will not suffer it to be razed; nor leave it in any sort, being so commodious for them. As for the other lesser forts about Sluse and in the Island of Cadzand, we will pass them over, having spoken of the principal. LYEFKENS-HOECH. THis fort was built at one instant with that of Lilloo, being opposite unto it upon the river of Escault, so as all ship s that come from the sea to go to Antwerp, must pass betwixt these two forts: But it could not resist the enemy's attempts like unto Lilloo: for in the year 1584. the Vicont of Gant Marquis of Roubay besieged it, and took it by assault, by a stratagem which he made with a heap of straw and hay, which he caused to be burnt on the dicke-side where he gave the assault, so as the smoke being driven with the wind, did so trouble their sights that defended the breach, as they were forced with great fury, the Vicont killing Colonel Petain, (who commanded there) with his own hand, in cold blood, and causing many Burghers of Antwerp to be hanged: the which was afterwards revenged upon the Spaniards and other prisoners which they held in the united Provinces. It was since recovered by the Estates▪ under whose obedience it hath continued unto this day. Yet it is not like to continue as Lilloo, but may well be razed upon the conclusion of a peace, being of no such importance as the other. TERNEUSE. Is a good village of that quarter of Flanders, which hath a Bailiff, Alderman and other officers, whereas the united Estates did long since build a fort, and entertained a good garrison: it is situated in the midst of a drowned Land, and therefore not easy to approach nor to camp before it; for which consideration the Spaniard (who will not willingly wet his feet) would not attempt it: remaining unto this day under the Estates, being commanded by a captain, superintendant for them. AXELLE. IS a little town in the land of Waes (which is one of the best quarters of Flanders) which Seruaes' van Steelandt great Bailiff of the said country of Waes delivered unto the Spaniard, when as the Duke of Anjou was retired, after that great folly committed at Antwerp. Six or seven years after Sir Philip Sidney Governor of Flessingue, and Colonel John Peron surprised it, and delivered it unto the Estates in the year, 1587. the which they much fortified since, by drowning of the great part of the country, which makes it inaccessible, whereof the said Peron hath recovered a good part, during the time that the Estates, left him governor of the place. There are other forts in that quarter of Axelle and of ●erneuse, upon Flanders side, as that of Blockersdyek, Saint Marguerits and Saint Anthonis-hoeck the which we omit, being of no great importance nor likely to continue. Forts beyond the river of Rhine. BOERENTANGHE. IT is a goodly fort, none of the greatest, but at this present like a little town upon the frontiers of the county of Lingen, which is the highway to go out of Friesland and Groaning into the country of Westphalia, and by Cloppenbourg to Delmenhorst and Breme, and so to Hamburg, Lubeck and other towns of the East country, along the Baltic sea. Is is entertained with a good ordinary garrison, consisting of many half companies (at the least when I was there) whereby (in my opinion) the Estates did wisely cutting off many Monopolies and occasions of mutinies, for that there is seldom any accord where there is diversity. The country about is all moorish or full of turfs, wherewith they do both furnish the place and the country about it. BELLINGER-WOLDER-ZYEL. IS a good village or rather a Borough, at the end of the Dullard▪ where as the river of Ems grows narrowest, by the which they must pass coming from Embden by water to go to Boerentanghe, leaving the castle of Wed upon the right hand: where the Estates have made a fort to defend the county of Lingen: yet is it not so well fortified, but it must yield to the first enemy if he be Master of the field. As for the other forts dispersed here and thereupon rivers, frontiers and passages, being many in number, throughout all the united Provinces, I have thought it superfluous to describe them here particularly, having only undertaken the chief. By this description may be seen, that in the said eight united Provinces, which make the Estates of the Belgike Commonweal, there are above sixscore towns▪ great and small, and above a hundred castles and forts of all sorts, entertained with ordinary garrisons, besides their troops of reserve which they put into towns, especially in winter, or when they have need to refresh their companies either of foot or horse, where they are well lodged and accommodated. Touching the ships of war which the united Estates do usually entertain, as well at sea, as upon the rivers of Rhine, Meuse, Wahal, Ems and others, I cannot set down the number, the which is great, sometimes more, sometimes less, according to the necessity of their affairs: they have sometimes a hundred and twenty ships of war in pay, well armed and appointed with men and munition. Their navigation and traffic of merchandise extends to the East, West, North and South. I dare boldly say, that the Commonweal of Venice, which is held so rich and mighty an Estate, could not have continued such intestine wars three years, as they have done many, and doyet like the ebbing and flowing of the sea, whom all the forces of Spain could never vanquish. Wherefore we must conclude that the King of Spain was ill advised to entreat them with such rigour, as they have been forced to oppose themselves and to shake off his yoke. Whereas contrariwise, the King his son now reigning, (for fear of some greater inconvenience) hath with good advice, declared them free Estates, seeing that his father could not with all his forces and treasure, deprive them of their liberties and freedoms: offering then peace, without attending the prejudicial event of a war of a hundred years: as the Princes of Austria his Predecessors had against the Cantons of Swisses, who almost for the like occasions, did shake off their yoke, near three hundred years since. Let us pray unto God, that their union may continue: the which may restrain the insolency of some of their Neighbours and norrish peace among them. Which God grant. FINIS.