A TRUE DISCOURSE HISTORICAL, OF THE SVCCEEDING GOVERNORS' IN THE NETHERLANDS, AND THE Civil wars there begun in the year 1565. with the memorable services of our Honourable English Generals, Captains and Soldiers, especially under Sir JOHN NORICE Knight, there performed from the year 1577. until the year 1589. and afterwards in Portugal, France, Britain and Ireland, until the year 1598.  
TRANSLATED AND COLLECTED BY T. C. ESQUIRE, AND RIC. RO. OUT of the Reverend E. M. of Antwerp. his fifteen books Historiae Belgicae; and other collections added▪ altogether manifesting all martial actions meet for every good subject to read, for defence of Prince and Country.  
AT LONDON Imprinted for Matthew Lownes, and are to be sold at his shop under S. Dunston's Church in the West. 1602.   

TO THE RIGHT NOBLE AND RIGHT HONOURABLE, SIR EDWARD SEYMOUR, KNIGHT, BARON Beauchamp, earl of Hartford, and Lord Lieutenant general for the Queen's most excellent Majesty in the Counties of Somerset and Wiltshire: Thomas Churchyard Esquire, wisheth long life, happy health, with increase of Honour temporal, and the fruition of heavenly beatitude in Christ jesus eternal.  
IN CALLING TO mind (Right Honourable) the manifold favours of your most noble father, showed me in the reign of the rare Imp of grace King Edward the sixth, 
1547. 1. Edw. 6.  and weighing I served under him, at the battle of Muscleborough, your father then Lord Lieutenant General of the English Army: I found myself for sundry causes much bound to all his most noble house and family. And so a long season watching opportunity to do some acceptable service to his noble children, I could not happen on any matter (touching my pen) worthy acceptation. Then reading of a book in Latin, written by a grave writer, called Emanuel Meteranus: who wrote fifteen books de Historia Belgica. I found so great profundity in the man and matter, chiefly because he exactly (without adulation) wrote of martial affairs, and exploits done by mighty Governors and valiant soldiers: that not only attained honour in the field (some of them honourably borne) but also wan everlasting fame by their prowess and service. A while considering the consequence and worth thereof, I thought God would be offended, my country dishonoured, and worthy men should be in time to come forgotten and discouraged: whereon I took in hand to revive dead men and their actions (for fame's sake which all men shoot at) that time past and time present should be so remembered, as time to come, and all ages should admire on, and marvel at the most manly enterprises (make Sir Francis Vere and the true Captains of Ostend an example) that courageous soldiers dare adventure, take in hand, and accomplish. I being pricked on with their incredible valour, divine virtue of mind, & manly resolution (considering mine own profession long that way) I took it as an injury done to all Soldiers: if I a poor plain writer should not as much honour them with my pen, as they have honoured God & Prince with their sword: So in my great age I clapped on a youthful courage (imagining I saw all the worthiness of men) and stoutly stepped into the translation of Meteranus works of Historia Belgica: but often falling sick, and like to pass from world, I called unto me one Richard Robinson (a man more debased by many then he merits of any, so good parts are there in the man) one whom I might commanud and keep a long while for this purpose, and who took great pains (I being sick) in the translation, and in writing the other Collections of this book: but my study, knowledge, experience, and eye witness for all or most actions in this book, perfected every point and piece of matter pertaining to the truth of all here in this volume printed: myself beholding herein a world for a great parsonage to patronage, bethought me of your honourable Lordship. So advisedly & somewhat fearfully to presume, I have humbly presented my pains to the well liking of your honour: accepting my good will & boldness as far as my honest regard leads me. I protest neither matter of State, nor vain inventions drew my muse to this hard attempt and presumption: but the love and laudation of Lordly minded soldiers, loyal subjects, unconquered courages, and aspiring minds, that dare fight with fortune, fly in the face of all foreign enemies, and daunt the pride of all false hearted people of the whole world whatsoever. So for the commendation of an infinite number of Lion-like champions, this work was compiled, printed, & presented: hoping it shall purchase favour of your Lordship, and of all noble minded personages, that prefer every excellent exercise above all slothful dronish idleness.  
Your good Lordships in all at commandment, THOMAS CHURCHYARD.   

STRENVO, FORTI, SPLENDIDO, GENEROSO, atque Illustri D. D. JOHANNI NORICEO, Equiti Aurato, & Anglorum Militum in Inferiori Germania Colonello Generali, & in absentia Illustriss. Comitis Leycestriae Supremi Gubernatoris ibidem Praefecto fidelissimo, & Vigilantissimo, Viro ex veteri Prosapia oriundo, & summa quadam Integritate, justitia, Prudentia, Temperantia, & rei bellicae gloria, in eaque (quod minimè in multis reperiri est) faelici ac fortunato, admodum Insigni atque conspicuo: In quo sunt omnes Imperatoriae Virtutes, nempe, labor in negotijs, fortitudo in Periculis, Industria in agendo, celeritas in conficiendo, & Consilium in providendo. PETRUS BIZARUS, cum nihil aliud in praesentiarum habeat, in quo suam (erga Ipsius Illustrem Dominationem) obseruantiam & summissi animi promptitudinem testetur, hoc breve Carmen dedicavit.  

VT primum Genitrix hanc te produxit in auran,  
Lactavit tenero casta minerva sinu;  
Mox solido victu pavit, mensaque Deorum.  
Atque instillavit jussa Verenda iovis.  
Addidit & pectus sapiens plenumque decoro,  
Facundum eloquium, Consiliumque grave:  
Mars verò ut vidit, quanta sapientia & arte  
Formasset Pallas, qui sibi Alumnus erat,  
In Natum accepit, Diua rogitata, & amorem  
Indidit armorum, ac bella subire dedit.  
Et simul ostendit, quo pacto Castra locanda,  
Quidque etiam prosit, Vel nocuisse queat.  
Bellica quid ratio, seu disciplina requirat,  
Sedulus ut perstet Miles in officio.  
Quinam acies media & Cornu dextrum atque sinistrum  
Instrui & aptari, legitimè deceat:  
Vtque acie instructa procedere longius ausit,  
Incensisque animis totus in Armaruat;  
Quo tormenta loco disponi & quid faciendum,  
Vt Polyorcetes quis queat esse brevi.  
Quando itidem Fabij exemplo cunctandum & inani  
Spepugnae facta, continuisse juuat.  
Infectis donec rebus in pest prematur.  
Vel Fame dissoluit Castra domumque redit.  
Num dolus an metus potior sit, quidue petiri  
Successu efficiat, commodiori Via.  
Quando Equite aut Pedite est utendum, quidue moretur,  
Euentum; Induciae an Pax sit habenda magis,  
Num pugnare die, Nocturnoue tempore, quidque  
Multos an paucos praestat habere bonos.  
Quidue agat interea Miles dum cessat ab Hoste  
Ne se desidiae dedat, Inersque siet,  
Denique faelici postquam fera praelia dextra  
Egeris, & volitas clara per ora virûm:  
Parcere num victis deceat, vel perdere prorsus:  
Quidque horum illustret, nobilitetque prius.  
Haec tibi MARS plene ostendit, docuitque ut Alumnum,  
PALLADIS ut fueras ante in amore pari.  
Et quoniam in bello multum sibi vendicat Ipsa,  
FORTUNA hanc flexit, quo tibi adesse velit;  
Annuit, haec siquidem fausto tibi Numine & olim,  
Praesenti ac prompta se fore dixit ope.  
Ergò ut caepisti pergas DVX Inclyte bellum,  
Quod nunc prae manibus provehere atque sequi,  
Donec ad optatum finem perduxeris: aqua  
Cum sit causa DEO grata & amica bonis.   

Idem. Ad Eundem.  
FOrtunae donum est, generis quod Clara propago  
Te Illustrem efficiat, nobilitetque Domum,  
Quod verò proprijs meritis virtuteque adeptus,  
long praecellit, splendidiusque nitet:  
Namque tua in bello Generosa & fortia facta,  
Fermè Orbis totus novit, ad Astra vehens.  
Haec te perpetua decorabit gloria, laud,  
Et tibi post obitum Vita perennis erit:  
Tu, interea PYLII transcendas Nestoris Annos  
Et placidos habeas ac sine nube dies;  
Vt Patriae, atque Orbi praesis victricibus armis  
Et cum Pax fuerit, Consilio atque fide.   

In illustrissimi eiusdem D. Effigiem depictam.  
MAgnanimi effictam quicunque conspicis arte  
NORICEI, effigiem, nobile cernis opus:  
Sed si animum videas, quem picta ostendit Imago,  
Dices nil toto magis in orb micat.  
Omne ensign huic uni fata simul dedere,  
DII superi, unde hominum constat tutela,  
Hunc tegite & vestris accumulate bonis:  
Vt Victor referat multos ex Hoste triumphos,  
Semperque aeterna gloria Illustris vivat.  
Petrus Bizarus Belga.    

A Table of the principal contents in this Book.  

THe translators Collection of the succeeding Governors in the Netherlands, and the original causes of the civil wars there 1565. page 1.  
The Original wars there under the Duchess of Parma. page 4.  
Captain Churchyards service. page 5.  
The civil wars there under the Duke of Alua. pag. 15.  
The wars there under Don Lewis Requisensius. pag. 20.  
The wars there under Don john de Austria. p. 24.  
The wars there under Alexander Prince of Parma against the Archduke Mathias for the States. p. 30.  
Master Henry Knowles service. p. 46.47.  
Sir john Norice knight, his first coming into the Netherlands 1577. p. 27.  
His proceedings there until 1588. p. 102.  
The wars there under Francis Duke of Anjou for the States, against Alexander Prince of Parma. p. 43.  
Captain Edward Stranges' service. p. 45.  
The wars there under Parma against the Prince of Orange. p. 54.  
Five several messengers sent to murder the Prince of Orange. p. 55.  
His death and funeral. p. 59  
His Title and Epitaph. p. 65.  
The wars there under the Prince of Parma and the States. p. 67.  
The wars there under the Prince of Parma & the Earl of Leycester. p. 74.  
Captain Thomas Lovel, Captain Charles Blunt, now L. Mountioy, Captain Thomas Vaviser, now Sir Thomas Vaviser. p. 74.  
Captain john Pryses service. p. 79.  
Sir Phil. Sidneyes service there, his death & funeral. p. 88  
The Earl of Essex his service at Zutphen. p. 89.  
The Lord Willoughby his services there. p. 88.103.104.  
Sir Thomas Sicily now Lord Burley. p. 84.  
Sir Henry Norice. p. 88.89.  
Sir William russel's service there. p. 95.  
In Ireland. p. 145.  
The wars there under the Prince of Parma against Count Maurice. p. 103.  
The death of Parma where the Belgic history endeth. p. 111.  
The service of Sir Thomas Morgan p. 18.19.32.41.47.106.  
The service of Sir Roger Williams. p. 38.42.97.98.  
His service in the Portugal voyage. p. 113.  
The voyage to Portugal. p. 112.  
Sir Edward Norice his service there. 113.116.  
A journal of Sir john Norices service in France. 1591. p. 119.  
His memorable service at Breast in Britain 1594. p. 134.  
A brief discourse of his service in Ireland against the arch-rebel Tyrone 1595. p. 144.  
Sir Thomas Baskeruil, Sir Francis Vere, and Colonel Huntley. p. 98.  
Sir William Pelham. p. 101.  
Sir Thomas Knowles. p. 74.138.   
FINIS Tabulae.   

THE TRANSLATORS COLLECTION OF THE succeeding Governors in the Netherlands, and original causes of the wars there.  
BEfore I come to the Consequent, I must begin with the Antecedent; before I frame the upper building, 
Exordium de quatuor circumstantijs.  I must fix a foundation: so before I come to the causes of the Civil wars in the Netherlands, I must by due course of the Dutch and Latin History (which I fellow) set down the succeeding Governors in those Countries, by four circumstances, briefly gathered out of my Authors first book Histor. Belgic. as he largely by substance delivereth for former causes of later consequents.  
The first circumstance is this: The derivation of the government of those Countries, 
The first circumstance. Historia Belgica lib. 1.  by process of time for many years under four Dukes of Burgundy, and as many Archdukes of Ostrich: of which, that Philip was the later Archduke, who (being son of Maximilian, before Archduke of Ostrich, and Emperor of Germany, and son in law to Ferdinando King of Spain, leaving behind him his two sons, Charles the elder, and Ferdinando the younger, with four daughters surviving) deceased out of this mortal life in the year of our Lord. 1505.  

The second circumstance.  The second circumstance is this: That the said Charles (as elder brother Archduke of Ostrich and King of Spain) sailing by sea thence into the Netherlands Anno 1517. taking possession of those Countries for his own behoof, 
Historia Belgica lib. 1.  within two years after (that is to say Anno 1519. on the 28. of july) was elected at Frankford in Germany, both King of Romans and Emperor of Germany, by the name of Charles the 5. Emperor: and so continuing in magnificent and memorable honour and renown many years governed those Countries: yet, not without some severity, as it is said: Much like the Eagle, which (seeming naturally to affect her young ones) will yet nourish them with great austerity. Although even in his time (for the Religion of the Gospel) the civil broils beginning in Germany, he sought by his great wisdom and gravity to appease the same: yet happily lived he after this in great honour and felicity: for he lived and saw his foresaid younger brother Ferdinando chosen Caesar at Colen Anno 1530. and on the fifth of january 1531. crowned King of the Romans, who became an earnest favourer and furtherer of the Gospel. He lived also and saw the felicity of his lawful begotten son Philip, both Duke of Burgundy, Archduke of Ostrich and King of Spain Anno 1542. but he lived not to see the life and death of his base begotten son Don john de Austria, who died (as afterwards shall appear in this history) Anno 1578. To be short, he lived yet to see his said son Philip married with Mary Queen of England on the 19 of july 1554. and in the next year following 1555. he gave this his said son Philip full possession and principality over the said Countries of the Netherlands, which he had himself so governed (not without some severity) 38. years. Finally, omitting larger discourses of this Charles the 5. Emperor, (of his so many notable and memorable expeditions in in his life time performed) let these few words suffice; that he made nine into Germany, seven into Spain, seven into Italy, ten into the Netherlands, four into France, and two into England, which in all were nine and thirty. After all this (to make an end of his memorial) he resigning up the Empire and jurisdiction thereof unto the Prince's Electors of the same, in the year of our Lord 1557. and so leaving Germany departed into Spain, where he finished the race of his mortal life on the 20. day of September in the year of our Lord 1558. having been Emperor for the full space of nine and thirty years.  
The third circumstance is this: That his aforesaid younger brother Ferdinando, 
The third circumstance.  succeeding him in the Empire, on the 18. day of March 1558. did so godly, and so religiously govern the same, 
Historia Belgica lib. 1.  from his first inauguration thereunto, that he had much ado to be confirmed in this Imperial dignity, by Pope Paul the 4. of that name Bishop of Rome; because he this good Emperor granting peace unto the Churches of Germany, & preferring the Gospel, the same Pope Paul withstood him in Italy, and thwarted him with warlike forces out of France, to come of purpose to Rome, there to disgrace and disannul his government even in that same very year 1558. aforesaid. This good Emperor notwithstanding persevering an Imperial sincere Patron of the sacred religion (to his great comfort) saw his son Maximilian also chosen and crowned King of Romans, in the month of November 1564. And so he himself having been Emperor six years and upwards, was by the God of peace called out of this troublesome world on the 25. of july Anno 1565.  
The fourth and last circumstance, yet not the least which I gather out of my Authors first book is this: 
The fourth circumstance.  That as the said King Philip of Spain had been from the year of our Lord 1555. aforesaid, 
Historia Belgica lib. 1.  possessed in his sovereignty over the Netherlands, until this year 1565. aforesaid; so his father Charles the 5. Emperor in his time was not so severe an Eagle, but this his son now becomes as sore a Lion, joining hands as it were with the Pope of Rome: And whereas they two made other Christian Princes believe they became right restorers of Christian policy; in process of time they proved themselves to be destroyers of the peace and weal public of a good government, in sending forth the Spanish Inquisition, as the ground of all the grief in the Netherlands, and the original cause of the civil wars there, now following.  

The original civil Wars in the Netherlands under the Duchess of Parma.  
FOr first by the said Inquisition sent from the Pope and the Spanish King into the Netherlands, 
Historia Belgica lib. 2.  against the professors of the Gospel, or of the reformed religion, thus it fell out: That the King having chosen new Bishops for the purpose, 
Anno 1566.  sent them thither to execute the said Inquisition amongst them. 
The States finding themselves greatly injuried and grieved by the Spanish Inquisition, do exhibit unto the Regent a just protestation of their cause.  They of the reformed religion hereupon exhibit to the Lady Margaret Duchess of Parma and Placencia (sent by the King thither for their Regent and Governess under him) a little printed book: wherein they crave mitigation of the King's Decree, hoping (as they alleged) that he would not infringe and frustrate their ancient privileges and franchises in those points, and for that cause they were reputed and called Geusij, viz. poor men. Which thing being interpreted to the worst in Spain, and sore stomached by the King, they of the reformed religion perceiving the same fire every day more and more to burst forth (to quench, 
The keys and custody of Antwerp in Churchyards hands at this uproar, witness Master joseph and his brother Master Richard Candeler.  or at least as it were to avoid the same) by public assemblies at Sermons, and convenient places, do provide for their profession and for protection of their particular estates. Hereupon on the other side began Idolatry to outface and disannul their doings by the Papists: yet for all this the said Lady Margaret Duchess of Parma, than Regent, was commanded by the King, to grant security unto the Nobility of the professors (who had been before suitors unto her for the same) that they might freely have their assemblies and Sermons, till further order were taken therein. Then they of the reformed religion laid away their weapons, and some Idolatrous personages were put to death. Mean while the Regent having gathered under her some forces, 
Churchyard Captain of 30. thousand in this time at Antwerp.  began to sow discord and debate amongst the reformed Nobility: whereof the lesser part being stirred up, or rather enforced by her menacings and threatenings, do again take them to their weapons: whereupon at Antwerp did sedition and tumult arise. To avoid future danger, William Prince of Orange and Count Nassaw hereupon departeth out of the Netherlands in happy time. 
The Prince of Orange and Count Nassaw departeth out of the troubled Low Countries in happy time.  Again at Antwerp was commandment given in certain places that Sermons should be prohibited; and so all things seem to stand in uncertainty, though some hoped that the King's displeasure would be pacified. To conclude, yet so many as were suspected of the reformed religion were taken and violently put to death: many others taken endured long imprisonment: many others fearing worse to come, 
Churchyard then fled to England in a Priest's apparel, and came to the Queen.  fled these Low Countries, dispersing themselves into divers parts of Europe. And all this continued under the said Duchess of Parma, Regent for the space of twenty months.  
In the time of these troubles and grant of an Interim (to have free liberty in preaching the Gospel) there fell out a bloody conflict near Antwerp, at a place called Austeruile: for one Monsieur de Toloze a Protestant (suspecting bad practices of the Regent) gathered and assembled two thousand soldiers in a fortification, not fully accomplished at the said Austeruile, meaning with that force to aid them of Antwerp, if ill measure were offered them; which the Regent went cunningly about: for she (in all secret manner) raised a thousand horse and four thousand footmen, and gave the charge of them to a gallant Captain called Monsieur Beauvois (albeit a cruel man) who immediately marched privily towards this new fortification, and before Monsieur Toloze could make himself strong to withstand his enemies, the Regent's power in the break of day set upon the unready and feeble force of Toloze, and charged them so furiously and hotly, that they entered the weak fortifications, & overthrew the whole company of Toloze, saving a few that escaped dangerously into Antwerp; among which soldiers Captain Churchyard saved himself and entered Antwerp. Notwithstanding Toloze being slain, and almost all his men, the enemy (after the victory gotten) marched with all possible speed towards Antwerp, where forty Ensigns of the Regent's power were in battle on the Market place ready to receive them, and kept the Town gates as open as they could for that purpose: but the Protestants fearing mischief and misery, ran to the gates in all haste and shut them fast, carrying away the keys into the heart of the town. The Prince of Orange, the Count de Horn, and Count Hostraet, with Monsieur Decardes, and many more Signior and Noblemen beholding the danger they were in, knew not what to do, nor durst make any resistance, for offending the Regent, and loss of lives, goods and lands: and so refusing all charge against the Regent, they left the common people in a great uproar and hazard: to avoid which extremity, the Commoners began to clap on armour, and made a most resolute mutiny, crying Vive les gueulx, that is to say, live poor men: and beholding over the walls Monsieur Beauvois and his people proudly marching (after so much bloodshed) within a mile of Antwerp, the Protestants resolutely determined to encounter Beauvois in the fields: but wanting a general Captain, and horsemen to match against horsemen, they fell in a great murmuring, and knew not what was best to take in hand: yet seeing all their governors refuse them, called courage to themselves, and so resolved to make a stranger their Captain, they being interlarded with many valiant soldiers (that came from the siege of Valenciana) came suddenly to Captain Churchyards lodging and burst open his door, commanding him in all haste to come out, and take the charge of those that would fight for the Gospel, which attended his coming well armed in the streets: Churchyard told them he would serve among them, 
The Protestants choose Churchyard their Captain  but was unable to govern a multitude. Whereon they bent their pikes on him, and threatened to kill him if he did refuse their loving offer. He thereupon gave his promise to obey, and so without any armour came into the street, where was raised such a shout and noise of people (and so many caps flung up) that it was a wonder to hear and see it: he presently guessed their number was great and their quarrel good, so in a few words he desired that such as would not fight, to depart to their wives and children: whereat all the people shouted and cried, Go forward and we will follow. Then unto the gates goes the assembly of 25. thousand, saving the soldiers were left by direction to make head and beard the forty Ensigns in the Market place: so the Protestants breaking with bars of iron a postern gate (because the keys were hidden) their Leader still advancing his Ensign full in the enemy's view, their horsemen somewhat slack (for the rifling Tolozes Camp) cast in the Rearguard: and not ready to charge the forefront of the Protestants, made the Protestants use the more advantage both of shot and service, whereby they got so much blood and victory, that their Leader (of some great consideration) made his people retire into the town again, the number that sallied were eight thousand. They were no sooner entered but the Prince of Orange and Noblemen welcomed (with embracings) the Leader and all his followers, promising great matter for their boldness. But the Captain and his people hoping to rid the whole town of Spaniards, marched with the advantage of the time (the gates fast shut) towards the Market place, order being given that five thousand shot should enter at the backs of the enemies, when one shot of Canon should be discharged against the Protestants from the Market place (where 24. great pieces were rammed full of stones and chains) and resolutely the Protestants holding this course, marching thorough Cooper strote in as great bravery and terror as may be imagined, they approached near the enemies with such a thundering noise and cry as seemed marvelous. The Prince and great Earls before named, pitying the great slaughter that might follow this bold attempt, on horseback (as all the Nobility were) the Prince presented peace to the Protestants: who disdaining his offer cried kill him, and so bend their pikes on him. What, what (quoth the Captain) will you kill your governors, fie for shame, hold still your weapons: but the Prince and the rest with him, drew back their bridles so hard and so disorderly, that down came the Prince and his company all flat backward in the place. The enemy then amazed at that sight (besides regarding the privy stratagem or practices at their backs near the rivers side) began after their musing and amaze to discourage themselves, in so much that the Cannons they would have shot off, and the service they intended was utterly forgotten, so that suddenly they let fall their pikes, and at the Protestants approach then at hand, the enemies cried (to save their own lives) Vive le gueulx aloud, and in such sort that they suffered all their Captains and Leaders to the number of six score to be taken prisoners, losing all their Cannons and Munition, putting every thing they had into the Leaders hands of the Protestants, he using victory in the great advantage of that season, caused all their Camnons' to be drawn with ropes from the Market place to the Mere bridge, a great street near the Burse, and filling every window full of shot to flank each part and corner of the streets and Burse, he chained carts together with shot in them, and thereon pitched strait ways a Camp full upon the Méere-brugge, having then at command thirty thousand resolute soldiers, for the space of three days and nights: all which time the General appointed Captains and officers for every company, and all warlike orders set in stay, he thought all had been well and in surety: but a vile cunning and unchristian brute was raised, that the Caluinists would cut the Martinists' throats: on which false brute, in one night the Protestants lost much more than ten thousand men, who joined as they might with the Papists: yet God moving the minds of good men, made the Protestants and their General courageously to pluck up their hearts, and the General with five hundred shot, match fired in cock, marched to the Prince of Orange his presence, and told him that this drift of the Martinists going from the Protestants, smelled of two much subtle smoke, the smother thereof might set all Antwerp on a flaming fire, desiring him to see a quick redress herein, or else presently the Protestants would give all the enemies a battle, to the whole spoil and overthrow of the town: and therewithal he departed from the Prince, and used his five hundred shot, to house and drive in all the Martinists into their lodgings: for as yet they had not joined with the enemy's force, they were so weary with watching before, and so glad of rest, liberty, and company of their wives and friends at that present.  
The Prince then with great prudence and policy, sent word to the Protestants that they should have free access to Sermons and preachings, which they sought, (for the which was a goodly preaching place built) and further the Prince promised that the Martinises and all other enemies should lay down their weapons and pass quietly every man to his lodging, requiring that the Protestants would make no further stir, but as quietly as were possible to march by every man's own door, and there to leave the towns men in their dwelling places as they marched: which request of the Prince was to God's glory and his honour in perfect order performed, always the Protestants kept them strong till the enemy were all lodged, and then each man went home in peace. All these things being done and brought to a good end, without shedding of blood or spoil of any Christian creature: yet the Prince was after forced to flee to Breda, as the story now shall show you following.  
The noble Prince of Orange in Breda (his own town) seeing his son and heir taken from Louvain at school, by the cruelty of the Duke of Alva, and thoroughly considering the calamity of Flaunders (by the dealing of a tyrannous governor): this warlike wise Prince with a fatherly regard and true affection to God's word and the Netherlands, began to stomach the wrongs received when he governed Antwerp (and the imminent danger that Flanders stood in) and calling to mind all promises were broken that were solemnly made by the late Regent, he consulted and communed of this matter with the States of Germany and his friends there, who counseled him to take arms in hand and raise a power, at his own house in Dillenbrough, a parcel of Germany (ten great leagues from Colen) and these great Captains and worthy Germans promised not only in person, but also in purse and munition to assist him, which they performed with great expedition, at the time when he arrived at Dillenbrough, where Churchyard being sent (from the Lord high Chamberlain of England) saw the meeting of all this mighty assembly, and served under Monsieur de Lume (Count de la March) as Cornet-bearer to two hundred and fittie light horsemen all that wars, which was against the Duke of Alva in his first coming to Flanders. The Prince passed his musters beyond the Rhine, between an Abbey and Andernake, a walled town in Germany, and had in his Army two and twenty thousand foot, and thirteen thousand horse, all Swartrutters: so paying his soldiers with Dollars two months pay afore hand, he passed this great army in boats very near Andernake, marching from thence towards Aken, a strong town: but by the way was a great mutiny between the Almains and Burgonians, who said the Almains had lost the battle of Groaning, where Count Lodowick and all his power was overthrown, those words made many a man be slain: but the broil was pacified by the Prince, who marched straightways to Aix, a great City, and the Army encountered anon after the Duke of alva's soldiers, horsemen, some valiant of mind, and some by sorcery with words and characters in their doublets, more mad than manly, yet hoping in sorcery ventured too far, and could not be killed with shot; a desperate roister beholding the boldness of these enchanted persons against shot, drew his sword and stroke one of these men on the face, who quickly yielded himself (as after his fellows did) to the mercy of the sword. The matter marshally a long while pleaded and orderly by Marshal law disputed, the enchanted men were all condemned to be hanged, because against the law of Arms they had used unchristian and unlawful means to murder men and shed Christian blood. These men executed the Prince's army (after a good sum of money paid for the ransom of Aix the great town) departed towards Senttro, another walled town, which redeemed itself in like manner. All this while the Duke of Alva with thirty thousand shot and four thousand horse, waited on the Prince's power, still skirmishing with brave soldiers against the Prince's forces. But almost forgotten at the entering of the Prince's army, he bruited that he would pass thorough Liege, a marvelous mighty town, where the Duke advertised by espial, attended the Prince his coming: suddenly without sound of Drum the Prince parted a contrary way towards a ford on the Maze near Mastricke, marching all the whole dark night very fast, (which lost some men) and at break of day came to a bare Village where the ford was, to enter into Flanders: so in all haste possible the horsemen passed, bearing a croope behind them each one a soldier: but the horses so many, and their legs holding up the water, the river rose so high that many footmen were drowned, and much victual wet and lost: yet before night all the army left alive were landed in as great safety as could be wished. But resting three days there, the Duke was in Mastrick (not very far off) to give the Prince battle: so God sent a most fair day for that cause, in his gracious pleasure. The Prince ranged and set in battle, marched on a goodly plain towards Mastrick, and the order of the field by excellent soldiers set and ranged in the most princeliest manner that might be (Churchyard at all this): The vanguard, battle and rearguard so shining in armour, and other awful troops of horsemen, which seemed a great wood and terror to behold, that in very deed the show and fight thereof would have delighted any man living to behold: for the march and order of the field was miraculous to consider on, and most fearful to match withal and encounter. Yet the Duke of Alva (a great noble soldier) determined (as it was thought) valiantly to fight with all this brave army, so in short time the very same day the Prince came within shot of Cannon (and at the length of Musket) so near the Duke, that he sent a number of horsemen to make a bravado, and plied it so fast with small shot out of the trenches (for he was entrenched) that it was thought a great slaughter would ensue.  
Thus continuing all the latter end of the day in skirmish and great service, at night the Prince was fain to lodge his power near the very face of the Duke's army, far from water or wood: but in the night season the Duke removed his Camp, and a far off waited on the Prince daily, who never did march backward, but came (as afore is said) to Aix, Senttro, Tongre, and other towns of good moment, making his profit as he might every where, because some had broken promise with him in a most odious manner. For some had falsified their faith, besides odd trumperies they devised, and othersome poisoned the standing waters and pools: yea and in some places milk and drink was infected, Milles were all broken down, and no corn to be grinded: by which Heathenlike & foul hellish practices, the Prince's army was like to perish: yet a shift was found to bring the army by little & little from these miseries: but forced to skirmish with Alva often. The Prince came cunningly to a town called Tongre, finding there much of the Duke's provision, and a number of wagons full of corn and other necessaries, succoured and made somewhat in strength, and in hope of good fortune: the army meant to pass over a little river near Tielmount, but by the way were sharply encountered with the whole power of the Duke of Alva, where in hazard the Count de Hostraet was shot in the leg, of which wound he died andn after. The Duke likewise (a politic soldier and great governor) bearded the Prince a while with hot and cruel countenance, and so sent julian Romero to lie in ambush between a bridge and passage, full in the face of the Prince's Camp, marching to pass the water: which Romero most like a rare great soldier, in a fine warlike sort, couched his force flat on the earth behind the Forlorn hope, sent from the Prince to view and make place for his army's passage: Romero came before as one that knew the advantage of time, couching close as flat as they might, and so the day consuming, all was in rest, and both parties in a great wood lay as close as they could. The Duke maintaining skirmish, followed still after the Réergard of the Prince. Romero suffered both the Carriage, Vaungard and Battle to pass the bridge: and as the Reergard advanced themselves to march over the passage, Romero descried his power of six thousand shot, and so put all the Forlorn hope to flight, or slew the most of them. A noble Frenchman called Monsieur de Malberg, and all his company of four thousand brave soldiers were there defeated, with others to the number of eight thousand men: which fight and slaughter endured in great and bloody broil till the very night approached, and compelled both the Camps to lodge within Cannon shot one of another, and in the night the Duke privily stole away, for some hidden cause and policy: for the next morning Monsieur janlis and seven thousand footmen, with fifteen hundred horse, marched full upon the Duke's power in a fair plain near unto Namur. The Duke dreading janlis boldness (and the Prince's Camp not far off) turned him back another way, and made his march very fast, for fear of a blow: then janlis and all his noble troop joined with great joy with the Prince's power. Immediately the Prince prepared to besiege a town called Chasteau Cambresi, and marching thitherwards, the Duke waited at hand, but the town was strongly besieged: notwithstanding the Duke (as the Prince had intelligence) minded to disturb him: the espials of the Duke's Camp were by the Prince taken, which declared in what disorder the Duke's Camp lay: whereon without sound of Drum (most secretly) the Prince marched to meet the Duke, and the barking of dogs under the Ruitters wagons, gave warning how both the armies were almost mingled together (the night being dark) whereat a great alarm arose on both sides: but the Duke's Camp within two hours was entrenched, and so a great encounter of horsemen a long time passed out the morning in skirmishing, with many slain and hurt. The Prince then departing from Flaunders came into France near Guise and S. Quintin's, and marched after to disperse his army towards Strasborogh: in the which way Churchyard (departing from the Prince to England) so leaves this true testimony for a witness, that the author which wrote the other history (which Robinson translated) left partially out of his book, whereas these matters at that season were worthy of memory.  
Written from pag. 5. hitherto by Thomas Churchyard.   

The civil Wars proceeding in the Netherlands, under Don Ferdinando Aluares de Toledo Duke of Alva: sent thither by the King of Spain as Commander General.  
AFter all this, King Philip still prosecuting his former purpose with further extremities, in the year of our Lord 1567. sent thither Don Ferdinando Aluares Duke of Alva, by the title of the King's Commander General: a noble parsonage no doubt, but a notable cruel Tyrant, tall of parsonage, lean of body (like unto Brutus or Cassius whom Caesar censured to be feared) strong of members, upright in stature, long and lean faced, hollow eyed, of fierce and grim countenance, with a long and grey beard, haughty of mind, stout of courage, and (as my Author saith) Magnus Aulicus, Insignis Dissimulator: yet of surpassing skill and knowledge in feats and policies of war, 
The Duke of Alva sent as Governor over the Low Countries under King Philip.  exceeding therein all Spaniards of his time: who as he exercised most severe martial discipline in his wars, so used he great judgement in leading forth his armies, pitching his Tents, and pointing out harbours for his soldiers, because he was of long time a continual practitioner in wars defensive and offensive: and so bold he was and of such stout self-conceit, as one fearing no danger, that he would take upon him no charge of any army, except he might have the chief place and prerogative of Commendator General, as the Spaniards call it. As certainly he served both the father Charles the 5. Emperor before remembered, and Philip the son now mentioned, in chiefest place or calling of Martial affairs, and that in most important and difficult enterprises: 
Lib. 3.  managing their wars in Italy, Spain, France, Hungary, Germany, afric and the Netherlands: who now entering there in person all armed, found all things in peaceable state: But within a year after, he began to be stir him in the ininoyned Inquisition afresh, every where grievously vexing and persecuting the inhabitants with new impositions, mutinies, confiscation of goods, imprisonment, civil wars, and unmerciful death: daily inveighing against them, that they had broken their allegiance to the King and his supreme authority, and that they had lost all privilege of liberty, life and possessions: therefore he calleth a general new Council of the States, abrogating old, and establishing new laws, quite contrary to the ancient former customs of those countries; urging daily the new Bishops to be diligent in executing the said Inquisition, Summo iure (or rather Summa iniuria) according to that saying, Sic volo, sic jubeo, stet pro ratione voluntas: he himself setting all things in order for civil wars, fortifieth old and erecteth new fortresses, Castles and muniments, making provision for prisons, and other such preparations. This being in the year 1569. our English Merchants and Mariners (amongst whom, myself a poor Clerk travailing towards Antwerp, for my preferment) they some in one place, some in another, I at Flushing (upon Christmas eve) were taken out of our beds, 
He made a general restraint of Englishmen ships & goods.  and (our ships and goods by the King's commandment imbargued) so carried to the Geuarghen huise, as they called it. The cause whereof was, that certain ships with the King's treasure driven near the coast of England by tempest of weather, were taken by the queens majesties ships & brought into the Themes: by means whereof both English Merchants and Mariners were detained in prison, and their ships and goods restrained as well in all the Spanish King's dominions; as also on the other party the King of Spain's subjects and goods were arrested in the queens majesties kingdoms of England, Wales and Ireland: which continued for the space of two years following, till that order was then taken for the same: when the Merchants, Mariners and their ships were released and dismissed, but the goods liable to the value of the Spanish King's treasures was answered accordingly.  
Thus the cruelty of the time and state in the Netherlands increasing most odious unto other Christian princes, 
Historia Belgica lib. 4.  it was Gods good pleasure to put into the minds of the States of Germany, 
Anno 1569.  also of Charles the 9 King of France (for mitigation of these calamities) to enter a league with William Prince of Orange and Count Nassaw, 
Certain Christian Princes assist the Prince of Orange to fortify the Low Countries.  to levy forces of men and munition under conduct of the Count Lodowick of Nassaw brother to the said Prince, being also associated with the two valiant Captains, jenlisij and the Lord of Laxone: who (with their said forces part Germans, part Frenchmen, part Dutchmen, 
Historia Belgica lib. 3.  and part English voluntaries) bending their endeavours to the surprising of the strong town of Mounts in Henault, on the 24. of May in the foresaid year obtained the town by fight, and possessed the same by strong fortification thereof. In that year (saith my author) King Philip upon suspicion that he had of his only son Charles Prince of Spain (that he should prepare himself with habiliments by sea to step away into the Netherlands, 
King Philip imprisoneth his own son.  and join with the States, uz. the Prince of Orange, Count de Egmont, Grave van Horn and others, to manage civil wars against his father and his Commander before named) for that cause cast his said son into prison, where continuing a certain time he died, yet as it was thought by bleeding. The foresaid Governess Duchess of Parma and Placencia departed about the end of july home into Italy, 
The Duchess of Parma departeth into Italy.  being conducted upon the way to the sea side by the Commander General: who returning to his Court at Brussels, cited thither the said Prince of Orange, 
The King of Spain proscribeth the Prince of Orange, and two other estates.  Count de Egmont and Count Horn (having before proscribed them) to appear upon their allegiance to the King, before him as his Lieutenant general over all those Countries. The Prince of Orange kept him aloof out of his danger: the other were taken, laid in prison, and afterwards beheaded in the Market place at Brussels. In that year also was Tergoas besieged the second time by Tseratius for the Prince and the States, 
Tergoas besieged.  who was afterwards made Governor of Flushing: there at Tergoas having made his ditches and plotted his stations for his Ordinance to be discharged, by and by made he a breach in two places of the walls. At the which assault the French soldiers under Monsieur and the English stipendary hired soldiers under Captain Thomas Morgan and others, near unto the chiefest gate of the town, being 25▪ paces broad, about midnight made entrance into the City: whilst Creitius the Colonel, being by his Frenchmen greatly furthered therein, bestirs him to scale the other side of the gate: but being countermanded by the soldiers within sufficiently defending that place, both he and they were repulsed, and forced to give back from that assault. Whereby Mondragon the Spanish Captain (newly thereupon come thither) reserved T●●goas from any further siege (himself and his soldiers wading thorough deep waters, sent thither in great opportunity by the Commander General) as it were to resist the assault and rescue the town, which was performed with the loss of two hundred English and French soldiers slain and fallen into the waters there.  
Frederick the son of the Duke of Alva, 
Frederick the son of Ferdinando besiegeth Zutphen.  having been with his said father very forward in all actions, about the 21. of November 1572. with the forces which he had under him from his father, besieged Zutphen in Gelderland, and shortly after took it. Thus the Duke of Alva having with great cruelty governed for the King, making havoc of all with little mercy wheresoever he came, casting down strong holds, and kill man, woman and child: to make an end of his mischiefs, when now the city of Harlem in Holland had for her own best safeguard received the Garrison of the said Prince of Orange, pitched there his Tents, 

Harlem fortified by the Prince of Orange.  
Captain Barnabey Rich his notes.   bringing thither his army, consisting of Walloons and Frenchmen, under their Captains: also Englishmen and their Captains, by name Captain Turner, who served there some 8. years, Captain Cotton, Captain Christopher Hunter, Captain Candish, Captain George Gascoigne and others, which were all voluntaries; and of certain Scottish Regiments, sending thither also all kinds of necessary victuals, furniture and provision for the said army: thither then came the said Frederick son to the said Duke of Alva, and with his fresh forces of divers countries (sent thither by the King of Spain) layeth great and long siege unto the same: 
The same besieged by Frederick the Duke of Alva his son.  which enduring from the said year 1572. near at end, till the 15. of August 1573. he at length prevailed so far, that profligating the Prince's army, and dispersing them here and there, he entered the same city, and obtained and kept it in possession for the King, using the inhabitants thereof with no little extremity. 
Anno 1573.  About the 20. of August in the said year 1573. his said father Don Ferdinando Duke of Alva (partly his cruelty being by the King perceived, 
The Duke of Alva departeth out of the Low Countries.  and partly by the States of the Netherlands complained upon, leaving his said son to govern and bea●e arms for the King) with a convenient retinue departeth out of those Countries, not without many a curse, banning and exclamation made upon him for his farewell, when he had so there tyrannised about the space of 6. years little more or less. Vide Hieronymum Connestagium in Historia Portugaliae.   

The Wars in the Netherlands, under Don Lewis Requisensius Governor for the Spanish King.  
ABout the beginning of October 1573. succeeding the said Duke of Alva, came thither sent by the King of Spain another Noble man named Don Lewis Requisensius, 
Don Lewis de Requisensius a Spaniard succeeded in that government.  he taking government upon him, smally enterprised to purpose in the latter end of that year. In the next year following 1574. he bestirreth him by all means possible to levy his forces to besiege divers towns, 
Anno 1574.  and to fortify some others: amongst which when the Zelanders had attempted to besiege Midleborow, they so far proceeded that the town suffered great penury and distress of all things both by sea and by land; 
Midleborow yielded to the Prince of Orange.  and by means thereof was in the end yielded unto the said Zelanders for the Prince of Orange, who supported their powers and forces therein.  
What time in the year aforesaid 1574. this newcome Commander brought his forces to besiege the city of Leyden, one of the chiefest cities in Holland, 
Historia Belgica lib. 5.  the said Prince of Orange sent thither for safeguard thereof under Lieutenant Edward Chester an Englishman, ten Ensigns or companies of English soldiers, all voluntaries, who appointing certain of them for a garrison in the city, 
Leydon besieged by Spanish forces.  procureth the citizens to make speedy provision of corn and grain for the necessary sustentation of his soldiers. But finding the want thereof at his coming, and their slowness in preparing the same at that time, he complaineth greatly that they the less regarding or foreseeing the same in time, do not so speedily provide for the premises: and still he earnestly calleth upon them to look well to the present necessity in time, & so for their safety and defence he doth the part of a good careful Captain, 
Lack of looking to necessity in time, loseth all in fine.  that in the mean time they resisted and repelled the enemy's forces for three months. And he telleth them they should lack no help that he could perform or procure any way: notwithstanding they of the city being to too negligent and slow in following his advice in time, shortly after (for want of better provision in due time) five Ensigns of those English soldiers were constrained to step aside to the enemy, contrary to their promise to the States. This town was rescued by cutting certain banks and letting in the sea, which drowned many of the enemy's troops.  
In the beginning of the next year 1575. the King of Spain having victuals, 
Anno 1575.  manned and rigged a Navy of soldiers purposely sent to invade the Netherlands, a great part of the same Navy arrived by contrary wind and weather upon the coasts of England: all for the most part of these ships were such as they call Assabres, Pinasses, so small as that they might pass thorough the narrow and deep rivers of those countries: who when they chanced upon the coast of the I'll of Wight in England, such a friend was the queens Majesty unto them, that by the help of certain her Highness and subjects ships, they were wafted over to Dunkirk, where (after they had landed their soldiers and conveyed their treasure which they brought to the Commander) staying upon those coasts the latter part of that winter, 
The Spanish kings Armado sent into the Low Countries, cast away by tempest.  these ships (with those that were left in them) by huge and terrible tempests there arising, were (one frushed with the other) quite sunk and cast away; a thing surely reputed for God's wonderful work.  
This year also the States of Holland and Zealand (by the chief persuasion of the Prince of Orange) after much and grave consultation, with no less advice and deliberation determined, condescended, and agreed to make suit unto some foreign Prince, to protect and defend them from the horrible furies and outrageous tyrannies of the Spanish government.  
In that year 1575. was Ziricksea also besieged by the enemy's forces, 
Ziricksea besieged.  which continued for nine months space: where when the Prince of Orange had resisted the enemy what he could with men, munition and money, to his power, it was afterwards (sore against this good Princes will) yielded up unto the Spanish King and his forces in the next year following 1576.  
The same next year following 1576. what time the said Commander General with his Spaniards and others, 
Anno 1576.  
Historia Belgica lib. 6.  bent their forces to invade Antwerp: there than the Marquis of Hauery being General, and Champigny another valiant Captain for the States, joined their forces to the full resisting of that invasion, and valiantly withstood the enemy. But then the Earl Obersteyn making haste from the Offerlings house in Antwerp (being pursued by the Spaniards) thinking by flight to escape that danger, rushed into a Flemish ship in the river, where by the way (through the heaviness of his armour borne down) he fell from that ships side and was drowned. At that invasion also were missing (pursued by the Spaniards) certain others of the chiefest personages of authority and valour in Antwerp: There then also the young Count Egmont was taken prisoner in the Abbey of S. Michael, and with him Capreyse and Gogneyse two Noble men, and so carried captives away. Then the Spaniards thus invading the noble city of Antwerp, entering it with fire and sword most furiously sacked, ransacked and spoiled the same city in horrible manner: so that they were Lords and conquerors of the same by the fourth day of November in the year aforesaid 1576. where I note (by the way) that on the self same day when the noble city of Antwerp most tyrannously and most lamentably was thus taken, burnt and spoiled by the Spaniards, even than the same day Don john de Austria the bastard son of Charles the 5. Emperor before remembered, and new sent Commander General for the King of Spain, came into the Netherlands to govern the same. As for the late Commander Don Lewis Requisensius, when he had so served his Prince King Philip as General of the Netherlands four years, he deceased at Brussels: upon whose death by the author were written these verses following.   

IN MORTEM LUDOVICI REquisens. Regis Hispan. Commendatoris magni praedicti in Belgia. 1576. Carmen.  
ILle Requisensus Regi percharus, & ipsi  
Vrbis Quirini flaminis,  
Nunc chlamydem, quandoque togam, quandoque cucullum  
Triplex chimera gestitans:  
Belgarum genti Rector datus, ante faeraci  
Praefectus & Insubriae.  
Mitis & Horrenaus, turgens abdomine, Praedo  
Provinciarum subdolus;  
Emunctor populi, Procerum Calcator, Asylum  
Rasis, Piorum Carnifex.  
Numen Iberorum, Batavorum terror, Iniquus  
Belli atque Pacis Arbiter.  
Ad generum Caereris subito se contulit, illuc,  
Citatus à Vitellio:  
O stupidos Belgas, passi qui talia Monstra,  
Adhuc supini stertitis?  
FINIS.   

The civil Wars there under Don john de Austria.  

Historia Belgica lib. 6.  IN january following the next year 1577. (after he was there settled a certain space▪) the Prince of Orange and divers of the chiefest of the States (by a certain humble endeavour to do all things for the best) do offer him in friendly manner for his present entertainment, 
The offer made by the Prince and States unto Don john of Ostrich.  use and benefit, the possession of Louvain and Machlin, to the intent to have some treaty of pacification confirmed by him: The said Prince and States (at his request first demanding the same) on their parts giving for hostages the before named Marks of Haury, the Burgrave of Gaunt, and the Abbot of S. Gertrude. He accepteth their proffer made, receiveth the hostages, and bearing them in hand (if he might be believed) he would remain either at Machlin or at Louvain, where he would further proceed in treaty according to their former request to him so made.  
In so much as the same being on the 5. of january 1577. condescended, confirmed & published by the aforesaid Prince of Orange and the States at Brussels: Don john (then as it seemed) being moved by many reasons to make unity with the States, promised them first to send away and quite dismiss the Spanish King's forces out of those Countries, and after that maketh them many fair promises on his part to be performed, to the number of 19 Articles, 
The pretended contract of Don john with the Prince of Orange, proveth in fine fraud in friendship.  which were on the other party likewise by and for himself and his Council on the 17. of February 1577. condescended, confirmed, exhibited and published. But howsoever this appeared in outward show (as the Poet saith) it fell out Exitus acta probat, caret successibus opto: For the Prince of Orange and the States looking into his water more judicially and prudently preventing the worst, sought by all means to provide in time for their own security and safety, and like prospecting Patriotae for the protection of themselves and their country, fortified themselves and the same every where. Notwithstanding on the 7. Ides of April Anno Dom. 1577. King Philip confirmeth this as a perpetual decree: Hereupon the Prince and the States do call upon the new Governor (Don john the Bastard of Ostrich) for money, and having received some certain pay, do satisfy in part the soldiers there so long sojourning. So the Spanish, Italians, and Burgundian soldiers, as well footmen as horsemen, on the 11. of May do forsake and depart from utrich, and from all the Castles and Fortresses thereabouts. About the same time the before named County Egmont captive, with the other two Noblemen taken by the Spaniards the last year, and besides these, Valdesius with five or six others taken by the States, were all dismissed and sent home, and at length all other strangers also, unto whom (their promised pay being now made) County Maunsfeld Governor of Luxenberg performeth safe-conduct, departing out of Luxenberg into Italy very rich and passing joyful. To conclude, Don john who (before the departure of the Spaniards out of the Netherlands, 
Historia Belgica lib. 6.  could not be made governor of the same) now in the mean time prepareth himself to take upon him that government at Louvain: 
Don john made Governor General for the Spanish King.  where (when very many Noblemen came to congratulate his thither coming on the Calends of May, this said year 1577) he with a great number of Noblemen of his train, in great solemnity, honour and triumph went to Brussels: where on the 4. of May he was installed Governor General for the Spanish King over all those Netherlands: The people verily persuading themselves, that henceforth now perfect stability of peace would possess their expectations.  

Anno 1577.  But within a while after he (seeing the government of the Country in his absolute power and possession) began forthwith to execute that authority, 
Historia Belgica lib. 7.  which in secret manner he had from the King enjoined him: And hereupon privily conferreth out of hand with the German soldiers (as yet staying in the Netherlands) to this end especially, that he may have certain chief Cities there by some subtle sleight or cunning device rendered into his hands. 
The double dealing of Don john discovered and defeated.  But his Letters mentioning those secret devices, were intercepted (as God would have them) in France: and so his fraud or guile being now discovered, he aforehand taketh the city of Namur. But when he attempted the like thing against Antwerp, his enterprise had no success: for the Castle being fortified and defended by Boursius in the behalf of the States, this means, policy and power sufficiently prevailed against the enemy's enterprise. Again also Bergen opt Zome, Breda, and Shertogenbusch, this Don john's forces were discomfited by Champigny in the State's behalf, valiantly encountering and overmatching the enemy at all assates.  
Hereupon the Prince of Orange and the States do write unto the Spanish King, 
The States write to the Spanish King of Don john's indirect dealing.  accusing the said Don john of his indirect dealing, contrary to the confidence they reposed in him: They also certified his Majesty that this Don john feigning peace, and the procuring thereof amongst them, would not stick to depart the country, if he were sure to bring it to pass thereby that the Catholic Religion (as he termeth it) and the king's authority might so rest in safety. And yet in the mean time after all this protestation, this Don john sendeth for the Spanish and other dismissed soldiers to come back again. To cross him therefore another way, preventing his purpose the States do cast down the Castle of Antwerp, mistrusting he would forth with be their evil neighbour there first of all: and incontinently they prepare them to war against Don john. Therefore they send speedily for the Prince of Orange, not far off as then, whom they condescend to make the chief Governor of Antwerp. Hereupon groweth a jealousy, whereby many of the Noblemen being moved in some manner contrarily, do send for the Archduke Mathias, 
The Archduke Mathias sent for by the States.  brother to the then & now still Emperor Rodolphus 2. and son of Maximilian before Emperor, hoping under his authority to have particular jurisdiction in the several Provinces there: which thing when they of Gaunt did hear of, they take the Duke of Ascot with others of that faction, and commit them to safe keeping.  
Here it is especially to be remembered, that on the 17. day of july that year 1577. came first to the Prince of Orange, 
Sir john Norice his first coming into the Netherlands.  a worthy and forward soldier Master john Norice, second son to the Lord Henry Norice, Baron of Rycot in Oxfordshire, a Gentleman of great courage and dexterity, who (as Captain Peter Cripse, a follower of him in this his first service, and in all others afterwards for a long time, saith) landed first at Dunkirk with three hundred Englishmen, 
Captain Cripses note.  where he arming them, marched toward Antwerp with them, where the said Prince of Orange remained: and so from thence to Brokam, where he made pay to all his soldiers the last day of that month of july 1577. aforesaid.  
Duke Mathias being come into those countries, and at the first thus forsaken of them whom he should have had his assistance, by the persuasion yet of the Prince of Orange, is by the States chosen and ordained their chief Governor for the King: and Don john is publicly proclaimed an enemy to all the Low Countries, Datum Bruxellae 7. Decemb. 1577.  
The States in this year send their Ambassadors unto divers Monarches and Princes of divers kingdoms and countries, to excuse themselves and accuse Don john of the misgovernment of the Netherlands: In France they were offered by the King his brother and Queen Mother both favour and furtherance for their defence.  
And here it is to be remembered, that whereas (by reason of the same request of the States made unto the queens Majesty of England) certain evil disposed persons flattering the King of Spain, bore him in hand that the queens Majesty did ambitiously seek to usurp the government of those Low Countries, contrary to his good pleasure: Her Majesty therefore being given to understand of those slanderous and false bruits given out against her (to purge herself of such sinister dealing, 
Envy and slander evermore enemies to good enterprises.  and of that false and undeserved surmise suggested to the said King, and dispersed abroad to blemish her highness credit and estimation with other Christian Princes) to the intent she would rather be known to God and the whole world, To eschew evil and do good, to seek peace and ensue it, Psal. 34.13. and not to be an intruder into those troubles (as it was falsely surmised) to nourish the civil wars in those Countries, laboureth by princely and friendly means of persuasion to the Spanish King for careful conservation and preservation of the same: and likewise in Christian and friendly manner exhorteth the Prince of Orange and States of those Countries to submit themselves to their sovereign Lord and King in all humility and obedience, and so ceasing from civil discord, if that they would reject their weapons, and practise to appease those troubles with patience, no doubt of it God would work in the King's heart to forget and forgive all that was past, 
john Stow pages 1167.1168.1169.  to remedy all evils present, and provide for the best to come. These friendly motions made by her Majesty for both the King and his subjects, written in Latin and in English, several copies were sent from her Majesty to the King of Spain by a wise and learned Gentleman named Master Thomas Wilks, on the 20. day of December Anno 1577.  
In the beginning of the year following 1578. the said Don john brought in a new, 
Historia Belgica lib. 7.  Alexander Farnesius (the son of Lady Margaret before named, Duchess of Parma and Regent of the Low Countries) now by the name and title of Prince of Parma, 
Alexander Duke of Parma brought into the Low Countries by Don john.  as another enjoined General for the Spanish King, with his Spanish and Italish soldiers come into those countries: In whom Don john having great confidence, proclaimeth open wars against the Prince, the States and those Countries. The Pope Gregory (alias ante Hugo) the 13. of that name on the other side, sendeth his Cross, and denounceth his curse against the Prince of Orange, all the States and their partakers in those wars. Hereupon Don john taking great encouragement unto himself, 
The State's forces then at Gembleu overthrown by Don john▪  and those whom he had in charge under him, set upon the army of the States at the town of Gembleu in the County Namure: and there discomfited them with great spoil and overthrow of them on the 30. day of january 1578. And so still prosecuting his purpose in hope of further victory, he subdueth afterwards, Louvain, Phillipville, Limburge, and certain other towns; which he together with the Duke of Parma his forces had accomplished before july following.  

Duke john Casimire cometh into England.  In that january, uz. on the 22. day about 7. of the clock at night, Duke john Casimire County Palatine of Rhine and Duke of Bavaria, landing at the Tower-wharf in London, was there by divers Noblemen and others of England, honourably received and conveyed to Sir Thomas Gresham's house, the Queen's Agent, in Bishop's gate street in London, where he was feasted and lodged till Sunday next, that he was honourably brought to her majesties Court royal at Whitehall, and after lodged at Sommerset-house on the 8. of February following; he was made Knight of the Garter: and on the 14. of February he departed homewards with great rewards, given by the queens Majesty, the Nobility and men of honour. This noble Duke being a valiant Martialist, became afterwards a stipendary warrior of great valour and account, and did much good service against the Spaniards, for the Prince of Orange and the States of the Low Countries.   

The Wars in the Netherlands, under the Prince of Parma for the King, and the Archduke Mathias for the States.  
Upon the first day of August (amongst us English commonly called Lammas day) in the year of Christ our Saviour 1578. (which day the Spaniards do highly honour, 
Captain Whitstocks note.  especially Don john, who as this day overcame the Turks in a battle by sea) they endeavoured by all means to enterprise some great exploit: so as they sent out of Louvain two scouts or espials in very base apparel, to pry about and descry the Prince of Orange his Tents, 
The battle on Lammas day between Louvain and the Leger.  at that time remaining in the Leger: which two soldiers should indeed use all their endeavour to burn up the houses near unto those Tents: and whilst they should so set the inhabitants on work to quench the fire, all the whole Spanish host, which consisted of four thousand horsemen and seven thousand footmen, 
Anno 1578.  under conduct of Mondragon a Spanish Captain (although Don john the Bastard of Ostrich, 
Historia Belgica lib. 8.  and Alexander Fernesius Duke of Parma were both in person there also) should suddenly and at unwares surprise and suppress the Prince of Orange his army.  
But (as it was Gods good pleasure and favour to the contrary) those same two Spies were taken, and the enemies were disappointed of their purpose, being valiantly encountered by the English, 
A fierce fight for 7. hours.  Scottish & Frenchmen, from nine of the clock in the morning until four of the clock in the afternoon of the same day: and that with a hot and fierce fight (fortune so favouring the States and their forces) that they put their enemies to flight, and pursued them to the utmost the space of three miles and more.  
The first of the English Captains which set upon the enemies, was that valiant Lieutenant William Marckham, a Nottinghamshire man, stern of countenance, strong of hands, and courageous of heart, like a Lion casting down, overthrowing, and overmatching whomsoever he met with: In whose commendations the States themselves sent divers Letters into England. But in truth the greatest glory of this fight fell to the then courageous Colonel Norice, who coming that Lammas day from Brokam (aforesaid) very early in the morning to Remingham Leger, 
Captain Cripses note.  where the State's army were in fight with Don john of Ostrich (the Grave van Bushy being General of the State's army) he the said Colonel Norice joining with eleven companies of Englishmen more, uz. of Colonel Candish, Colonel Morgan, and Colonel Cotton (who spent fifteen several barrels of powder upon the enemies at that time, before they entered the Camp of the States) even there the said Colonel Norice having three several horses one after another slain under him, 
General Norice hath the honour of the field.  with greatest valour pursued and subdued his enemies, being only weaponed with single sword and his pistols which he used: even so surely, as who had seen how courageously he laid about him on every side, might well have said he had seen a new Hector, another Alexander, or rather a second Caesar foiling his enemies every where. There were also present at this conflict three English valiant Gentlemen, by name Bingams, all brethren, valiantly behaving themselves, 
Three bingham's brethren.  until two of them, uz. Roger and Thomas, were pursued by the enemy unto the very death: but the third (which was Richard Bingham, as it pleased God so to favour him, safely then escaping the enemy's danger) survived, 
Historia Belgica lib. 8.  a man of good valour, for his service afterwards in Ireland was knighted, and there preferred to the government of Connaugh: of whose prowess and fame they that will may read more amply both in john Stows Chronicle, 
Sir Richard Bingham deceased in Anno 1598.  and in the History of the wars in Ireland. In this fight for seven hours space were slain of the enemies five hundred, besides a number drowned: 
Five hundred Spaniards slain.  and of our Englishmen and of the Scots were slain to the number of one hundred at the most: yet it was thought the Camp of the States would have been utterly overthrown that day, if the English forces had not come in as they did.  
Towards the latter end of the year 1578. after all these troubles and broils, 
Historia Belgica lib. 9  Don john de Austria having thus made his last mounting upon the stage (summoned by Death to sound a Catastrophen) sickened in his Tent at Namours about the Calends of October: 
The death of Don john.  and died (as some think) of the plague: others (rather believing) have given it out that he (being sore grieved with a certain odious disease) what for sorrow in mind conceived at the hatred of the country upon bruiting of his base birth, & what for stomacking and furiously fretting at his evil success in government, took such extreme thought, that it shortened his life so much the sooner. This Don john (as my Author saith) was a lusty young man of thirty years of age, of mean stature, hastle, 
His birth and properties described.  rash and proud: yet at length manifesting his malicious mind and furious fierce outrage in undeserved troubles which he brought upon the inhabitants of those Low Countries: because he saw he was despised of them for his base and unlawful birth. For indeed the high and low Germans do most of all others despise and disdain bastards: and the rather for that his mother which bore him was a German, at that time dwelling in the Low Countries (whose report being not so good) the Emperor Charles the 5. father bruited of this Don john, caused her to be the sooner conveyed thence into Spain, that she might there lead a new life, and appointed her a Nurse there to attend upon her and the child: where notwithstanding perhaps the mother afterwards growing malcontent, would rather name another man to be Don john's father, then that he was begotten by the said Emperor.  
In the year following 1579. the said Colonel Norice, with other English Captains and their forces, 
Historia Belgica lib. 9  had many small skirmishes with the enemy in Brabant and Holland: but neither part attempted any notable exploit for game or loss of that which they had hitherto gotten, but watching their opportunity from time to time, passed forth this year without any memorable thing done.  
In the winter of this year the before named Duke john Cassimire (for a certain time before retained by the States as a worthy warrior) came with his forces to Teen and Areschot, and lay there in camp all that winter, and now and then skirmished with the said Prince of Parma's other forces. But the Prince being too strong for him, drive him to the worse, so that with very little or no great glory the Duke departed again into high Germany, and left his own soldiers in the Netherlands, some under one Captain, some under another: but in the end they followed their first Captain with better contentment to go then to stay any longer.  

Anno 1580.  Anno Dom. 1580. when the Lord George Lelain Earl of Renenbergh, so commonly called (in times past) a faithful consort of the States, 
Historia Belgica lib. 10.  and a valiant Leader: but afterwards (his fates so framing, or rather frowning) being taken prisoner by this Alexander Prince of Parma, became a Revolt or Apostata: he thenceforth made Lieutenant general under the same Duke of Parma, when (I say) he should take his journey on the 18. day of October this year 1580. towards the city of Steenwick to besiege it (then being under the States) coming with his forces against the same, he found the City of very little ability or strength to resist him, and very slenderly manned with one small company in garrison: yet (as he thought) if he might win this, he persuaded himself it would be for his special advantage, serving to strengthen Drent, and so in his passage to Frizland fit him for the defence of Vallenhove. Therefore this County Renenbergh laid siege to Steenwick, bringing to the field 28. Ensigns or companies of soldiers, every one having two hundred footmen, severed in this manner, that is, fourteen bands of Frizlanders, nine bands of new Gelder's, and five bands of his own province of Renenbergh: all which 28. Ensigns or bands contained six thousand footmen and more, and he had moreover of horsemen twelve hundred special chosen Lansiers'. There was for the States within this city a man of good valour named Olthoff, as chief governor, having but one Ensign or band of men lying there in the garrison. There was also another worthy man and a notable good Leader named Corruput, 
Historia Belgica lib. 10.  with his band or company, and with these were also two companies of Germans under conduct of the Lord Hohenlo, commonly called County Hollock, whose under Captains were Plate and Stuper, with their Leader john Berenbrooke governor of Gelder's: 
The Garrison in Stenwick.  but the soldiers of these two last companies were in manner Novices, and untrained to the wars. There were over and beside these about three hundred citizens, but yet amongst them scarce fifty persons which a man might well trust unto: They had not as yet any General sent unto them, neither had they any great ordinance, nor any horse; only the officers of the bands had some twelve or fourteen horses for themselves: All these adiuments or helps thus here recited, were the besieged citizens utterly void and destitute of, wherewith they might the better resist and repulse their approaching enemies. Wherefore in this present distress, the Governors, Captains and Burghers (sending speedily Letters unto the States) do humbly and earnestly entreat them to send them speedy succour and rescue. 
The Governors of Stenwick send to the States for supply.  But yet only the said courageous Corruput and prudent Leader (before named) was after a sort against this intendment: for he conceiving and pondering with himself another thing, with great heed and foresight showeth and seeketh other means otherwise how to defend the city: whose opinion the foresaid Captain Plate and his soldiers do also well allow of. In the mean time, notwithstanding while the Noblemen of Frizland sent thither for succour and rescue four Ensigns or companies of footmen and a few horsemen, 
The first supply sent, surprised and set upon.  County Renenbergh addresseth certain of his soldiers against them: They which were sent for rescue, defending themselves what they could, were by the way set upon and slain of the Renenbergers, few or none escaping.  
Once again the grave counsel and advice of the said Corruput the second time given in presence of the Governors, Captains and Burghers, touching the city's safety (as aforesaid) being still contemned or neglected: certain of the chiefest personages in the city by writing make and dispatch another motion to the States to have yet again more help sent unto them, 
Historia Belgica lib. 10.  and that the city with all possible speed might be delivered from the enemy's siege. But now Corruput and the said Berenbrook by their letters persuade the States to deal more advisedly, lest they afterwards repent themselves again, as they had done once erst before. The States then willing to satisfy the citizen's expectation, 
The second supply sent also surprised by the enemy.  yet for all this send another fresh supply of six Ensigns of footmen under Heighmen conduct, and appoint them for S. john's Camp, a place so called, not far from Stenwick: But or ever these came thither they also were set upon by the Renenbergers; and although they manfully defended themselves, yet were they by the enemies taken, slain, and put to flight. Hereupon the enemy seeing his advantage, marcheth with great courage to the city, fireth the suburbs and scaleth the walls. The citizens seeing the fire fiercely flaming in divers places, as men out of their wits, be stir them by all means (yet little enough) to quench the same, and the soldiers resist the enemy here and there what they can, and with their ordinance beat the enemy back from the walls: they so gathering strength and taking courage unto them, do for a certain season keep out the enemy and fortify themselves.  
These things thus befalling, the States (more advisedly consulting how to deliver Stenwick) go now another way to work: Here at length prevaileth their purpose: they therefore with all possible speed having prepared a stronger power wherewith to deliver this ●●stressed city, 
The States better advising themselves, send now thither Colonel Norice.  levying and gathering money for their soldiers: for this new prepared supply, do ordain the before named Colonel Norice chief conductor and General of their troops, sending him with them to raise the siege. Who so soon as he came with his Regiments to Swart Sluice, found there a certain fresh band of the enemies newly arrived under Othon Sanches a Spaniard: These he setteth upon, killeth most of them, and putting the rest to flight, burneth up the Village on the 15. of December. From thence he marcheth to meppel with 24. Ensigns, which scarcely contained sixteen hundred fight men, 
Historia Belgica lib. 10.  with whom were joined a few horsemen: and so leaveth at Sluice three Ensigns only for a Garrison by the way as he passeth.  
Renenberg sendeth thither eleven Ensigns of footmen, and six troops of horsemen, which by a convenient passage through the ice, 
The now General Norices' victory over the Renenbergers besieging Stenwick.  set upon General Norice his soldiers. But when they had courageously defended themselves for a long time against the Renenberg, in the mean season the General in person (having good opportunity to succour & rescue his people) with all speed suddenly rusheth upon the Renenbergers, and putteth them to flight, in such sort as many of them were slain, and many amidst the broken ice were drowned. So the said worthy General departing with victory, having taken two of the enemies chief Ensigns, and gotten so much armour as might well serve for furniture of five hundred soldiers, sendeth one of those Ensigns into the city of Stenwick aforesaid, accompanied with forty soldiers, 
This affirmed by Captain Strange.  which carried into the same City also 570. pounds' weight of gun powder put in leather bags, very needful and necessary as the time present then required.  
The day before the Calends of january, the said General again with his forces made an assault upon the enemy, still besieging the city, issuing upon them hard at their backs beyond the marish ground: and even then the very Garrison themselves with a great force fell out of the town also, who set upon the enemies in such sort, as they made them to give ground and run away, yea and with Smiths hammers broke in pieces certain ordinance and field carriages, left there by the enemies at their fleeing away. The said Renenbergers not perceiving how they could by any means prevail against the towns men, do yet (in a bragging bravery take a kind of courage unto them) devise to pass away the time with some sports: whereupon it happened that a certain Captain amongst others of County Renenbergs soldiers, named Thomas of Alba, chief Captain of those which came from Albania, 
The enemies bragging challenge.  presumed insolently to challenge the said General Norice at the single combat hand to hand with Lance and Sword: upon whose behalf that renowned Captain and soldier Sir Roger Williams (since that time for his worth and valour knighted) replied, as Lieutenant general of the horsemen under the said General Norice, that he in his steed would defend the cause against the challenger, 
Historia Belgica lib. 10▪  and fight with him hand to hand. Which being determined by both parties in certain prescribed Articles, the day is appointed, each of these champions enter the lists between both the Armies, they marched forth and fall to buckling one with the other; where after certain fierce blows given and taken by either party (yet neither of them being hurt) the one drinks a carouse, and the other pledgeth, and so both of them depart the place.  
After this, on the 24. of january this year 1580. while the said General Norice with his army was settled in S. john's Camp aforesaid: against him thither cometh County Renenberg in person with all his most strong power, and besieging him round about with great shot, 
The fight in S. john's Camp between General Norice and County Renenberg.  assaileth and forceth him mightily. Here the said General and his soldiers enduring great danger, and suffering great penury for lack of victuals (necessity so compelling them) were enforced to feed upon horse flesh: until such time as the Lord Nienort (sent from the States with his own soldiers, and six other Ensigns of Frizlanders) furnished with wagons loaden, brought thither all kind of provision to strengthen and relieve the besieged persons: which Renenberg well perceiving, secretly and suddenly breaking up the siege, 
This affirmed by Captain Strange.  leaving his soldiers there some hurt and some slain, fled away with great abundance of all things necessary.  
And here now this one thing thus happening worthy of memory, may well be told for a miracle, as in truth it proved, that in the time of th●● siege, three Partridges flying over the city of Stenwick on the 4. of February in the morning, were taken and brought to the before named Captain Corruput. He interpreting it for a good presage, said: That God in Trinity who in the old time gave quails (such like food as these) unto the fainting Israelites, 
Exod. 16.13.  would also even now without doubt feed and relieve the besieged and distressed city of Stenwick. These words spoke he, who little knowing what certainty be foresignified; found not long after the assured event of his speech. 
Historia Belgica lib. 10.  For of truth first the aforesaid General Norice on the 20▪ of that February, sendeth from out of his Camp certain soldiers which brought to Stenwick so besieged one hundred and fifty Cheeses, 
General Norice relieveth Stenwick (besieged) with victuals, the 20. day of February 1580.  three hundred and fifty loaves of bread, and some quantity of gunpowder. Secondly, even the very same day between three and four of the clock in the afternoon, he sent thither also by certain husbandmen a great number of horses loaden with corn, bran and gunpowder, and certain of his footmen with speed carried more Chéeses and loaves of bread into the said city.  
In April following that year 15●0. the said General Norice, accompanied with Monsieur Charles leaven, also Monsieur Temple governor of Brussels, and their bands of horsemen and footmen marching in good order with manly courage, leaving Liere in Brabant, 
Captain Whitstocks note, confirmed by Captain Cripse.  where they had been before, do now attempt to besiege Machlin in Brabant: on the 9 of that month very early in the morning they scaled the walls and fired the port in such sort, and so valiantly behaving themselves, that before break of day they entering with their forces surprised the town, got great booties shared amongst the soldiers, and that with no little slaughter of the enemies, which had so before resisted them within the town. Amongst whom (as saith my Author, and which also others affirm) that General Norice encountering with a Spanish Friar (a tall and stout fellow in arms) named Pedro Lobo (who had before caused all the great ordinance in the town to be shot off against him and his forces) after a while bickering with him hand to hand, gave him his death's wound, whereof the said Friar died presently. Confirmed also by Captain Cripse, that after the said General Norice with his forces had lain there fifteen days, sacked the town and taken the spoil, they were commanded by the States to deliver the town to Monsieur Famoise: who then to take the charge of the town (with his Dutch soldiers and Monsieur Temples Walloons) perceiving the English forces to depart away very rich out of the town, fell upon them suddenly for the spoil, where they killed more of the English then were killed at the winning of the town: where General Norice himself was shot thorough the buttock, and had his horse killed under him: and even then Captain Price a brave soldier forsook his own horse, and mounted him upon the same: and so altogether they marched out of the town toward Antwerp.  
The States again send the Lord Nienort with his company thither: he in his own person with the same company of soldiers boldly assaileth Renenberg with often skirmishing, he killeth a great number of the enemies, putteth them to flight, and as they were flying pursueth them hard at the heels even to the very walls of Groaning, giving them a great overthrow, where he slew above six hundred of the Renenbergers: 
The Lord Nienort his victory over the Renenbergers the 9 day of july 1580.  so as there was left for the said General Norice four of the enemy's Brass pieces of ordinance, a great number of farthels, and very many horses. This victory by the Lord Nienort, thus gotten the 9 of july 1580. he pitcheth his Tents not far from the town of Groaning, there resting in better security for a season. And so the city of Stenwick, after four months siege, was in this manner at length by God's good providence delivered. And within a little while after, 
Renenbergs death.  namely on the 23. of the said month of july County Renenberg himself (after he had been certain days sick) deceased in his Camp, as some suspect by poison.  
After all this on the 17. of September this year 1580. a consultation was had at Lewarden in Frizland: 
Historia Belgica lib. 11.  where it was decreed (on the behalf of the States) to send the said General Norice to resist the enemy. Speedy dispatch herein was made, and an army was furnished out against a Spanish General named Verdugo: They (I mean the States) having levied and armed certain bands of horsemen and footmen, also mustering their companies, and paying them one months pay aforehand, do make the said General Norice chief Governor of them. He with convenient speed (having these his forces well fortified with six Brass pieces, marcheth manfully to meet the said enemy. 
General Norice marcheth to meet Verdugo.  But it fell out so that in both armies the plague was very contagious, whereby many officers of this army died in their Tents. Here for a certain space, while both armies were thus settled, afterwards Verdugo pitcheth his Tents at Northorne: Him pursueth hard the said General Norice, unto whom came eleven Ensigns of Englishmen, under the conduct of the valiant Colonel Sir Thomas Morgan: he himself having under his charge nineteen Ensigns of all these countries, uz. four of Nassawes Regiment, nine of Monsieur Sannoy, and six of Nienorts Regiment: so being under them thirty Ensigns, which made in all scarcely three thousand footmen. To these were joined the troops of horsemen under their several Captains, as the Colonel Gore, Captain Elenborne, and Henry van Eky, who were in number scarce five hundred: So then with such a brave army marcheth forwards the said worthy General Norice on the 30. day of September that year 1580. towards Newziel, 
Historia Belgica lib. 10.  a place in Frizland.  
Now Verdugo setting his forces in order and battle array, had got (to his greatest advantage) for his station the upper ground near the ditches: where the valiant worthy soldier Captain Roger Williams (before named) with the English horsemen under his charge, together also with Elenbornes' horsemen aforesaid, do set upon one great band of Verdugoes footmen, of whom they killed many, and put many to flight. But as even then one Wingard a Captain & companion of Verdugo, made towards them with certain especial troops (while the horsemen of the States had the enemy in chase) Verdugo with two troops of Lansiers' by main force charged into the army of the States: 
The battle at Northorne.  and so assailing them, not only found Munition, provision, wagons, and other necessaries, but also carried them quite away, and took also from them many Ensigns, where many of the States soldiers were slain and taken prisoners: but few of Verdugoes company (of any reputation) were then either slain or taken. And so afterwards Verdugo himself confessed, that (if this army of the States had forborn and prolonged a few days more from this fight) a great number of these enemies had departed determinately, and would otherwise have provided for their safety elsewhere, without any field there fought at that time.  
Here in this conflict had the said General Norice his right hand hurt with a bullet, and many of his soldiers which escaped the enemy's hands, were for the most part spoiled of their armour and weapons: very many of them leaving their armour in those places, where necessity compelled them either to leap or swim over those ditches. This also confirmed by Captain Cripse, who being there an actor, was in eight several places hurt at the least. Thus much my author mentioneth of the conflict at Northorne: and thus far he writeth of the wars managed between Alexander Prince of Parma for and in the behalf of the Spanish King, and the Archduke Mathias for and in the behalf of the States of the Netherlands: which Archduke by occasion of displeasure of the King, departed shortly after towards Ostrich, 
The Archduke departeth the Netherlands, the Prince of Orange succeed.  leaving the government of those Low Countries and the ordering of the wars unto the Prince of Orange, who by general consent of all the States, ordering all things with wisdom and provident foresight, held the enemy at the sword point for one whole year, from the end of 1580. to the beginning of the second year after 1582. at what time Monsieur the Duke of Anjou and brother to Henry the 3. King of France, was sent for and chosen to succeed in government of those Countries and ordering of the wars, in manner and form following.   

The Wars in the Netherlands, under Francis Duke of Anjou against Alexander Pr. of Parma.  
AFter that the said Monsieur, 
Historia Belgica lib. 11.  with other Noblemen of France arriving in Kent on the first of November 1581. had been honourably received at London, and entertained at her majesties Court at Whitehall, 
Francis Duke of Anjou cometh into England.  with princely feastings and banquetings all that Christmas: and being accompanied with the queens Majesty of England, she with her Nobles brought him on his way to Canterbury, feasted him there also, and each of them took leave of other: And after that the queens Majesty had sent with him in fifteen ships the Right Honourable Robert Earl of Leicester, Henry Lord Hunsdon, Charles Lord Howard Baron of Essingham Knights of the Garter, the Lord Willowby, the Lord Windsor, the Lord Sheffield, Master Philip Sidney, Master George Cary, and Master john and Master Robert Carry his brethren, with many other Gentlemen, who arrived at Flushing in Zealand, where he withal these Nobles of England and his own and their train in princely and friendly manner was received, by the aforesaid noble Prince William County of Nassaw, 
Captain Churchyard was with the Duke all that while.  and the other Nobles of the Low Countries, conducting them from thence to Midleborow and so to Antwerp in Brabant, where on the 19 of February Anno 1581. the said Duke of Anjou was created Duke of Lothier and Brabant with great solemnity: which being ended, the Nobility of England returned home again, and left him there Governor of those Countries, he repaired with his train of French Noblemen and Gentlemen into France, where the King his brother Henry the 3. of that name furnished him with men, money and munition, for the better supportation and countenancing of his princely port and new attained authority in the Low Countries aforesaid: And so on the 27. day of August in the year following 1583. for greater security of himself and his charge now taken upon him, he returned into Brabant with those forces, containing in all companies four thousand fight men. 
The preparation of the Prince of Parma and Duke of Aniowes forces for the fight.  These being placed in a certain Village near unto the city of Gaunt: straightway the Duke of Parma hereof understanding, and having in a readiness a great number of his most valiant soldiers, with their carriages and furniture maketh all haste possible to encounter him. Again, his coming being no sooner perceived by the Duke of Brabant's espials, but advertised unto him, the Lord Pierri a noble Frenchman, camp-master of the Duke of Brabant, commandeth his companies quickly to arm and encounter: 
Lib. 11.  and with all careful diligence and skilful experience he adviseth them of due observations in their warlike order of fight, and how to march softly and fight slowly with the enemy. Martialling his men on this manner: first in the front of his battle next unto the enemies were the band of English soldiers, and to them were joined the troops of Germans, next these were the bands led by Bouquoy, and after these marcheth the worthy General Norice in the Rearward with three troops of English horse, & four troops of French horsemen: after these followed three troops of French horsemen, with certain footebands of Flemings and of Scots: and last of all in the Rearward marched a band of English footmen, and a great company of pikemen. chose again the Duke of Parma had in his Vanguard or front all Spaniards, a great multitude whereof were very many footmen, and more than a thousand horsemen: for whom every where by the way the Duke of Aniowes espials lay in ambush, so as not a few enemies were slain with the shot of the Ambush; only of the Duke of Anjou's company amongst others were wanting three or four Captains of hundreds.  
After this welcoming made by the Duke of Aniowes soldiers unto the Prince of Parma's and his forces thus approaching towards him, which was short of Gaunt two Dutch miles, being six of our English miles: 
Captain Edward Stranges' relation of the service at Gaunt.  the Duke of Anjou and the Prince of Orange thought good to send Sir john Norice to the Camp where the forces lay: and thither he came with the three troops of English horsemen, and four troops of French horsemen (as aforesaid) for his convoy into the Camp about twelve of the clock at night aforesaid, where there were of all nations, English, French, Dutch and Scottish some six thousand men. And coming into the English quarter, he inquired where his quarter was, and where Captain Edward Strange lay, who had the command of all his house and his horses: where finding him lying in a little cabin hard by his Tent, he asked him how he had bestowed all things, for the enemy was hard at hand. To whom Captain Strange answered, he had delivered all unto Captain Peter Cripse to send it away to Gaunt. Then said the General: We have the Vanguard to day, but I think the French are fled from us, and we must then have the Rearward in spite of our hearts. So he having a squadron of horse, lay from the Camp a quarter of an English mile, where one William Winter a tall soldier, being one of the Corporals, and commanding the squadron, 
The enemies forces discovered at hand.  sent out a very good watch, so as the enemy must of force come by them, and by no other way. Two hours before day there came from the Prince of Parma certain troops of horse Albanoyses and Italians talking together: and being within hearing of the watch, those which stood Sentinel discovered them, and presently sent word to their guard lying in a house hard by, to certify the General that the enemy's forces were at hand. The word coming to the General, he presently commanded that every company should be ready to answer the alarm: but it was found that as well others as the French were marched and retired towards Gaunt. There the General stood fast until his own company came unto him: and presently three companies of Albanoyses came thither and offered to charge him, he being accompanied with Master Henry Knowles (a most worthy and gallant Gentleman) all that day. So the General marched from the quarter down the hill, and at the foot of the hill, by the counsel of the said Master Knowles, he armed himself, ask Captain Strange where the Turney horse was, for he would ride upon him that day, having three other horses led, every one by two grooms a piece to serve for that day: and being first mounted upon the Turney horse, the said Albanoyses durst not come down themselves, but sent against him those English Rebels, which a little before ran away from before Bridges. They being both Targatiers and musketeers came down the hill, as the General made his retreat towards his own battle of Pikes, the English Rebels very hardly assaulted him: amongst whom one of them calling to the General as he was in retreat, 
General Norice and Sir W. Knowles four english miles from Gaunt, assailed by English Rebels.  which he could not long endure, but turning upon that Rebel with his Rapier, he struck the Rebel on the head with such a force, that his Rapier bowed to his very hand: upon this came down the troops of the enemy's horse, and charged the General three ways, uz. upon the Rearward, so that he and Master William Knowles were both feign to put their horses among their pikes for their safeguard, and so marching at the push of the pikes four English mile they continued the fight still, and none but this General's Regiment consisting of seven Ensigns, which might be in number some one thousand strong, until they came to the very walls of Gaunt. The enemy forcing them so near that they came and attempted to pill the wagons, putting the whole force of the Camp so near as the very town ditch: until such time as the ordinance played so fast out of Gaunt, that thereby the enemies were enforced to retire from those places: 
Colonel Cotton and Colonel North.  Where the English forces, uz. Colonel Thomas Morgan, Colonel Cotton, and Colonel North with their forces joined themselves together by the General's direction in continual fight, from the Sun rising until the Sun setting: within which time about four of the clock in the afternoon Monsieur Rochpot the Duke of Anjou's Lieutenant, and Monsieur Byron Marshal of the same Duke's Camp, came forth unto the said General, who said unto him: 
General Norice honoured by the French forces.  The Duke of Anjou our Master hath sent us unto you, to give you the honour of this service this day, as most worthy thereof above all other Commanders. The General gave them thanks, praying them to do his humble duty unto his Alteze, and to the Prince of Orange, and so continued his service till after Sun set, as is aforesaid. And besides this, there came voluntarily divers brave French Gentlemen out of the town of Gaunt unto the said General, 
The offer of the French Nobles to the English General Norice.  and besought him to vouchsafe to accept of their service, that they might trail their pikes under his Colours: of which offer he courteously accepted at their request: they also passing through the whole company, desired the soldiers to accept of them as their companions, vowing to live and die under those Colours.  
While they were thus bickering both Armies together, the Duke of Anjou and with him the Prince of Orange stand upon the walls of Gaunt beholding them, 
Historia Belgica lib. 11.  and encouraging their soldiers to the fight, command them politicly to go somewhat aside, to the end that their enemies pursuing them, might be the better beaten and foiled with the shot from of the Rampires and Bulwarks of the City. Here again with hot skirmishing a number were slain on both sides, as also divers hurt and killed within the town with the enemies shot, at which time one john jux (then serving the Duke of Anjou, 
The Prince of Orange and Duke of Anjou behold the fight.  and now the queens majesties Trumpeter) standing by the Duke upon the walls of Gaunt, was shot in at the mouth, and Parma's forces were compelled with the shot of their great ordinance to retire. So did the Duke of Anjou's army covet in ranging to approach near the city still, and the enemy returning with some breathing freshly assailed them: From the wails still was the ordinance discharged with horrible shooting, to the great slaughter of the enemies. Here were slain very many of Parma's company, but very few of the Duke of Aniowes soldiers were either hurt or slain. In the evening Parma with his wearied remnants making haste out of the field, as he that might have done more harm if he had been more diligent than he was: near unto the city he burieth about two hundred of his slain soldiers; the wounded persons he gathereth up where he can find them, carrieth them away in wagons, and so departeth the field without more fight at that time.  
That night the English were appointed to lie in a little Island or piece of ground environed with water, and had reeds to make them cabins for their succour. Then the town of Gaunt sent them very great store of victuals, and Sir john Norice at his own charges sent them a pipe of Rhenish wine, and three hogsheads of Claret wine to make merry withal: And upon this Monsieur the Duke of Anjou made his retreat for Antwerp in Brabant, and all the forces went after him, where happened as followeth.  
Now come we to the end of this Comedy, interlaced, with an interchaunge Tragicallie metamorphosed, I mean of this Duke of Aniowes fair flourish at the first, where, in his fair show and sun shine he said of his honour; Sol discutit & fovet; now chose, nubibus obtenebratur & fallit in the end. The history affirmeth what time this Duke of Aniowes forces by conduct of Byron the french Marshal came first out of France (as before we have mentioned) after speeches and consultations had with him of divers weighty enterprises, 
The Duke of Aniowes metamorphosed mind and manners.  amongst others he deliberately advised himself how he might attempt to take into his jurisdiction many of the Cities in Brabant, Holland, and Zealand: he determined to lose no opportunity nor occasion to accomplish his desire, and use his absolute authority herein: So as first he took Dunkirk, for that was in his way out of France, next after that Dixmew, and afterwards Dendermond: in process of time he attempted further, but that enterprise brought him evil success at Bruges, Aloste, Newport, and Antwerp; especially at Antwerp he had his hardest success, and greatest dishonour, grown by his mind alienated from his oath, and metamorphosed in his manners. For where before he smothered his affections with a kind of hot friendship, now the sparks fly first, and the flame followeth of his fraudulent infidelity. For ambition had kindled the fire, vain glory blown the bellows, and hypocrisy had made way for the flame: So as attempting to rule all things after his sensuality, when he went further in wilfulness then wisdom required, 
The City of Antwerp all on a tumult by the Duke's displeasure.  the Citizens of Antwerp spying the flame of his furious outrage to burst out against them, whereby the City was in an uproar, they seeking their own security do strengthen themselves by force of arms to withstand his wilfulness: insomuch, as every street and gate was out of quiet, and a quarrel thus begun was not so soon ended till this Duke had seen the slaughter both of many a Citizen and many a soldier: who before feeding the humour of their grand Duke and Captain, by their unbridled wilful boldness, mooning a most cruel tumult in the City (spurred forth with hope of rich spoils) as if they all had been of one mischievous mind, with one & the same voice, making a clamorous outcry upon the Citizens, they rush and run against them in hostile manner with their weapons shaken in their hands, 
Historia Belgica lib. 11.  terribly thus crying, Ville Gaigne, Vive la Messe, tue, tue: the town is won, the Mass prevail, kill, kill. The cause hereof as it might best be imputed to the said Duke's displeasure conceived against the City; so a little after all this tumult, he road in a hot choler out of the City into his Pavilion which he had prepared for himself without in the fields: whom when a certain noble French man accompanied, as he went with the Duke out of the gate called Kipdorp, he (feigning to have broken his own leg by mischance) the more exasperated the Duke's anger against the Citizens, & caused here another tumultuous terrible slaughter of Citizens and soldiers within the said gate called Kipdorp; insomuch as 1500. French soldiers were there, and at that time slain, amongst whom were about 320. Noblemen and Gentlemen of great name and authority.  
The Duke of Anjou hearing the thundering thumps of the guns of the City, supposing that this should signify some evil presage to him and his retinue, making haste away into his Tents, and next day after removing them thence, got him and his retinue to the Castle of Bercheny, a lodging place scarce fit enough for him, altogether destitute of household furniture, victuals and other provisions needful: from thence yet very greatly abashed at his own doings and with penury of all things distressed, he takes his way towards the Abbey of S. Bernard; from thence purposing to pass over the river Schaldis and Dermonde, the Citizens of Antwerp with all festination, sending their ships of war against him, do stop the way at Macklin in Brabant.  
Hereupon also forthwith was the noble General Norice addressed with 23 Ensigns of English men and Scots into the country of Waste to withstand his passage that way, 
General Norice sent to meet the Duke.  who out of hand drowneth a great part of the country near unto Dermond with the waters there about: but the Duke (necessity so constraining him) with great hazard passeth at Duffle over the river Nete; and so with no little shame returned home into France, 
Historia Belgica lib. 11.  where he afterwards for very sorrow (sore repenting him of these things) ended his life in such manner, as I shall declare truly reported in the history thus proceeding.  
This Duke of Anjou and late Duke of Brabant by the States so created as before you have heard, thus being sore abashed at his own indirect dealing, and returning (as he came first with his powers) by Dunkirk into France: when he was there arrived, the Duke of Parma presently besiegeth the same town of Dunkirk, and taketh it with certain other Cities left at all adventures, being therein aided by the Citizens of Gaunt, and by the Prince of Chymay the Governor. And the said Duke of Anjou then being in France, notwithstanding all former inconveniences tolerated by the States, 
Historia Belgica lib. 11.  they yet once again seek for mutual reconciliation with him, and offer their friendships to receive him again, upon good assurance of better expectation: but he (newly returned with his soldiers, 
Coming into France he falleth sick.  dismissed, scattered abroad and discouraged) as well falling sick in body, as wearied in mind with thinking upon his former great misfortunes, saw in himself now that which he loathed; being laughed to scorn of his adversaries, and besides that little accounted of with many others, by reason he was at some discord and odds with the King his brother. Again, the Queen mother a woman of most subtle wit and perilous mind (who had first fostered the discord between these her two sons, to the end she might prevail in her purpose otherwise) then practised to reduce them to unity, 
Practise of Queen Mother.  and brought the matter to that pass that the Duke as humble suitor for favour, acknowledging his fault, should crave pardon of the King his brother. Being constrained so to do that he might again insinuate a renewed mind into the affections of the States to make the former breach a more firmer knot of amity, concord and league with them: who had by experience well learned that the Duke without the king his brother's countenance and supportation, could not well accomplish any thing answerable to their expectation: for they hoped hereby only the French forces should the rather return unto them, and by his more careful consideration all should yet again be amended which before was far amiss. And in this behalf the States beforehand prudently providing for their security do send the Lord Schonwalley as their Ambassador unto the French king and the said Duke his brother: 
They provide for their safety.  but or ever this embassage could take effect, or once be solicited, the said Duke of Anjou removing himself to the Castle of Theodor, incontinently fell most grievously sick, the blood gushing out of all the pores of his body, as if his veins had been burst with too much vehement riding: So as at length refusing natural sustenance, after the fortieth day of his sickness come & gone, he died on the 10. of june in the year of our Lord 1584. At his death being in good mind & memory, it is affirmed, he would not have any Monk or such other person for his Confessor. He acknowledged, professed, and protested to such as were present at his death, That he reposed all his hope in the bloodshedding of jesus Christ only, as his only and alone Saviour; which thing for certain the author of this history had related unto him by credible persons then present: which his death some say was not without suspicion of poisoning. His desire before he died was to be buried as Governor and Duke of Brabant, with his coat armour, shields of arms and such other appurtenances to the same dominions usual and accustomed: but his brother the French kings Counsellors thought it not so convenient, 
His description and properties.  for favour that they bore to the king of Spain. He was somewhat above the mean stature of men, well compact of body, of a swart complexion, black eyed, black head curled, of a high forehead, a greater nose than any his ancestors had, he was very fierce of nature, witty, eloquent, affable, nobly minded, bountiful, ambitious, nothing blood thirsty or desirous of revenge, but merciful and courteous: not contemning any man for religion sake, yet unquiet, quick and hasty in his doings, but for all this, as his disposition sufficiently well showed) a peaceable person, as appeared by his endeavours when he went unto the king of Navarre (now king of France) as then being his adversary, the Ambassadors of the Low-countries then thither accompanying the said Duke.  
Men say that he (two days before his death) sent a copy of his testament unto the king his brother, and therein declared the great sorrow of his heart in that he had offended his Majesty with his doings and enterprises: he requested of him many things, especially, he humbly beseecheth him to be gracious Sovereign Lord unto many his retained Nobles and Officers at arms lately serving him in the Low-countries, 
Historia Belgica lib. 11.  and there impoverishing themselves. And further, where he in conscience was touched with consideration of a certain debt to the sum of 300000. florence which he had not yet satisfied, he humbly besought his Majesty of all brotherly love between them, to take some order for the payment thereof: acknowledging touching his presentabilitie, that he could not leave behind him sufficient restitution or satisfaction, neither should he carry away with him out of this world into his grave any other riches, but the tears and sighs of sorrowful persons: to conclude he desired neither sumptuous nor stately funeral but wished the monument of his memory to be founded and fixed in the minds of his friends and vassals. Whose funeral in decent and honourable manner the king his brother accordingly accomplished within the City of Paris in the month of August that year, 
His funeral.  1584. Thus much for the manner of the government, actions, life and death of the said Duke of Anjou after he was Governor in the Low-countries, being for the space of two years and a half, as before is declared.  
You have heard hitherto what interchange of Governors have been on both sides, as well for and under the king of Spain, as for the States; what wars, what slaughters of men, and what infinite charges and troubles it hath been for all parts; and yet no placart of peace purchased at the Pope and King of Spain's hands: but rather the one more like blood thirsty Baalac cursing the Israelites, and the other more like Pharaoh persecuting and oppressing them; 
Numb. 22.5. Exod. 7.3.31. Prou. 28.15.  but both of these most like the roaring Lion, and hungry Bear which Solomon speaketh of, seeking now more and more the pray and spoil of the chief godly Governor the Prince of Orange now ruling the Low-countries, and defending their wars with the States, whom the Pope and Spanish King had proscribed certain years agone, and could no way come by his body to bring it into thraldom by wars, threatenings nor subtle sleights to cirumvent him. Now therefore they the said Pope and king of Spain, practise subornation of murdering messengers to hunt and haunt his Court under colour of some far fetched and dear bought false friendship: 
The first messenger sent to murder the Prince of Orange 1582.  as in the last year 1582. one john jaureg with full purpose sent from the Pope and Spanish King to murder this good and godly Prince and Father of his Country, then keeping his Court within the Castle of Antwerp, accompanied with the foresaid Duke of Anjou, the Council of the States and the noble General Norice, with others his faithful friends: even than the said murdering messenger when he had discharged a dag at the good Prince, the wound (as God would) was not so desperate but that he recovered within a while after: & the malefactor in the very deed doing was apprehended, stabbed with 27. wounds, and afterwards beheaded, bowelled and quartered in the market place of Antwerp. And praised he God (who preserveth his Elect) the said good Prince so recovering lived afterwards full two years. 
The second 1583. one Peter Dordoigne Lib. 11.  Although even in the next year following 1583. another caitiff of Cain's crew named Peter Dordoigne a Spaniard, sent from that Romish Babylon and Spanish Periander coming in the month of May to Antwerp about the like purpose, was taken at Antwerp before he could do the deed as God would have it: who being thereupon imprisoned, confessed that he was sent out of Spain from the king himself, with whom he had secret conference and encouragement to do that mischief upon the Prince's person: but the king concealing it not to be his fault, commanded him to lay the fault upon one of his Secretaries, and so this messenger had his judgement and was put to death at Groaning, as guilty in mind, will, and purpose to kill the said Prince.  
But now in this year 1584. the good Prince being assaulted by three other several champions of Satan, might seem to have sufficient warning by the former persons, whom he should simply suffer to be brought unto his presence, when that subtle Serpent the Devil, that old craftsmaster of theirs, deviseth sundry means to work mischief by: 
The third 1584. one john janson. Lib. 11.  As here by the first of these three whom I am to speak of, upon the 13. of April one john janson a rich Merchant (upon hatred which he conceived against the good and harmless Prince) coming into a seller near unto a place where the Prince was then lodged, had provided with gunpowder to blow up and destroy the Prince and all his retinue: but though the Prince saw not the person, yet he smelled the rat, found him and laid hold upon him (as God would) or ever he had power to perform that mischief, and so the malefactor was headed, bowelled and quartered for the same.  

The fourth 1584. a French man. Lib. 11.  The second of these three and fourth in number of the murdering messngers hitherto sent, was a Frenchman and Captain of a band named Gottus, who being captived a little before by the Marquis of Rombase, one of the Duke of Parma's Generals, promised the said Marquis if he would set him at liberty, he would work such way, being very well acquainted with the Prince of Orange, that he would with all possible speed dispatch him out of his life: saying, that as he was very familiar with him, and could easily upon any occasion come to his presence, and have full conference with him; so especially (saith he) if I shall be invited to the Prince's table, to eat of his meat, I can subtly cast (that few shall perceive) into some Eel broth (which the Prince loveth very well) such a powder, as infecting the whole dish of meat, shall (if he eat thereof) without long delay destroy him. But this French Captain Gottus, having gotten himself at liberty, haunting the Prince's presence, yet not so far put in trust nor so much made of as he made account to have been, and yet employed in service for the Prince and States in a certain Sconce (before he either put his purpose in practice, or performed his promise to the before named Marks) was by God's good will no doubt prevented, and in defending that Sconce, being overseen with drink, was shot into the head by a Musket, and so died presently in the said Sconce.  
The last of the three missive Manquellers this year sent, being the fifth and last of all that were sent hitherto, 
Historia Belgica lib. 12.  and most mischievous soldier of Satan's cursed crew, was a young fellow named Balthasar Gerard a Burgunnian, 
The fifth and last messenger which murdered the Prince of Orange, Anno 15●5.  of seven and twenty years old, of short stature, hard favour, and base constitution (dissembling himself otherwise to be called Francis Guyon the son of one Peter Guyon, put to death for preferring the reformed religion) when indeed this is that messenger of Satan, here of all others chiefly transforming himself, as Saint Paul saith, into an Angel of light: 
2. Cor. 11.14.  This villain cometh in the beginning of the month of May in the foresaid year 1584. unto the Prince of Orange his Court, (O that he had here been so simple as the Dove to have shunned by flight this mischief at the first; 
Matth. 10.16.  or as wise as the Serpent, to have vanquished the wisdom of the viperous wretch at the last) and pretending to bring letters unto the said noble good Prince, importing great and rare news out of France, using a certain protestation in express words of his zealous mind unto the Gospel, and adding for that cause he came far to prefer his service unto the Prince himself, above all other Princes; bringing with him and showing forth also unto the Prince certain writings signed by County Maunsfeld (called commonly flying seals) under colour of friendship purporting enmity, namely how Luxenburge and the cities of other Provinces might craftily be taken by the Prince of Orange his soldiers. The Prince perusing over the writings, and marking well the seals, saying, there could be no great matter performed by them; commanded him for a while to depart away. Here before he went, this villain begged of the Prince some money to buy him hose and shoes: whereupon the Prince commanded his Secretary to give him some money for his said necessity, 
Lib. 12.  upon the 8. of july that year 1584.: which he no sooner received, but incontinently going his way from the Prince's presence, and coming to the uttermost court, he bought with that money of two stipendary watchmen two hand-dags. But when this villain had bought them, 
The Caitiffs deceitful doings.  calling to mind (as he afterwards being taken confessed) what the Prince of Parma and one other named Assonuil had before said unto him concerning this his mischievous act (they as it seemed setting him on thereunto) he then on the tenth of that july about dinner time repaireth unto the Prince, and as one falsehearted and fearful to speak, desireth letters of passport and safeconduct. Within a while after the Prince had dined, he went through the Court and stood at the gate (forgetting, or at least mistrusting not that mischief which this judas was now meditating, nor that joabs congée which was consulted of before against his person) for notwithstanding all the fair show of those writings and their seals, yet it fell out this false conclusion: 
Virgil. Ecloga secunda.  O formose puer nimium ne crede colori; Alba ligustra cadunt, vaccinia nigra leguntur. He good Prince believing all for the best, standing (as I said) at the gate, then comes this villain unto him, and feigning his false purpose under a fair show of requesting his said letters of passport and safeconduct, he crowcheth and creepeth near the Prince (not then so well aware of him) where suddenly he dischargeth one of his new bought dags, having three bullets in it, full upon the Prince: who feeling the wound, lift up his hands and eyes, saying: Lord God be merciful unto my soul, I am sore wounded: Lord God be merciful unto me and unto this thy afflicted people. Within a while after, being borne into his parlour (where he had a little before dined) he was laid upon his bed, and so gave up the ghost, to the unspeakable sorrow and lamentation of the Princess and her people. The murdering messenger and cursed caitiff of Cain, 
The villainous murdering of the Prince of Orange.  or rather of Tubalcains crew, having perpetrated this villainous act, took his heels and fled thereupon through the postern gate of the Prince's palace with all haste he could: and casting away his other dag out of his hands, running by the street near the ditch of the city of Delft, as he prepared himself with two bladders to swim over, he was taken by two of the Prince's servants, brought back again to the Prince's palace, and carried to prison. Where he (being of the Senate or chief men of the city examined) writ and affirmed his intention and confession full and whole: adding most desperately and divillishly, 
Lib. 13  that if the deed were again to be done upon the said Prince, he would yet do it, yea if the Prince were guarded with 500000. men round about. For the which cause, 
The execution of the villainous murderer.  sentence of law and judgement definitive being given upon this his mischievous act, he was condemned to be carried to a gibbet, set up before the townhouse or Senate-house of that City: here first he had his right hand with a hot iron seared and cut off, which did the deed, and cast into the fire: next of all, with fiery hot pincers he had his flesh torn and plucked off from six parts of his body which were most fleshy, uz. of his breast, arms, legs and buttocks, and those cast into the fire, and his body beginning from the lower part was with an axe chopped in pieces, his belly was ripped, his heart was plucked out & cast at the villains face (yet in some life) and afterwards his head being chopped off, was (with other four parts of his body, as arms and feet set upon four poles on four turrets or ports of the city) fastened upon a long pole set upon the turret of the schoolhouse, on the backside of the Prince's lodging; and whatsoever he had in his life time about him was taken from him and given away. This execution was done upon Saturday the 14. of july Anno 1584. within the city of Delft in Holland.  
Now, not without sorrow and lamentation for the loss of so noble and painful a Prince, 
The funeral and solemn order of the Prince's burial.  let us return to describe the manner of solemnity used, and the whole order of his funeral, which in so few words and as briefly as I can I will set down.  
Upon Friday the third day of August 1584. the body of the Prince was buried at the ordering of the States of Holland, Zealand, Frizland and Vtrecht, in magnificent manner, according to the dignity of his excellency; and specially in remembrance of his honourable virtues and most princely deserts towards them: for he was the fourth of five brethren of the house of Nassaw, which lost their lives in the faithful defence of the States and of those Countries.  
The order of his burial or funeral was thus observed:  
1 First went the Citizens of Delft in armour, with long mourning cloaks.  
2 The dumb show of the Trumpeters in mourning apparel likewise.  
3 Then followed eight horses covered with black mourning clothes, every of which horses were led by two Noblemen, one on the one side, and the other on the other side going on foot: and behind every horse was also borne the Military Ensign of so many several Countries as the Prince in his life time had under his government, which Ensigns were borne by eight other several Noblemen in mourning cloaks down to the feet.  
4 After them went the Lord Mansert, bearing the Military Trumpet. Next to him the Lord Rihovius with the Prince's Standard, and next to him the Lord Naelwik with his Military Ensign, each of them bearing in them several Arms emblazoned.  
5 Then followed the four several Shields with their several Arms of the Prince deceased, which other four Noblemen mourners bore likewise.  
6 After them two other Lords, whereof one bare all his whole Arms, with his Helmet and his Crest: the other being Captain of his Guard bore his sword of war, both mourning also.  
7 Then followed the funeral Horse covered all over with black Velvet down to the ground: being led forth by the Lord Bredroed on the one side, and the Lord Maldre on the other side, two stately personages mourning in foot side cloaks.  
8 Next unto them went two other Noblemen tall and stately personages: the one bearing the Prince's naked Sword, the other his golden Coronet, both mourning in long side gowns likewise.  
9 And last of all went the Princes three chief Stewards of his retinue in mourning cloaks, each of them going with a black staff in his hand.  
10 After all these was borne the body of the deceased Prince in a coffin, embalmed, seared and covered with black Velvet hanging down near unto the ground: where about were fired divers scutcheons of Arms, and penants of the Prince's honours and dignities: The body being borne upon twelve tall gentlemen's shoulders, all bareheaded and in long mourning cloaks.  
11 Next unto the body went the four principal Lords of the States, as john of Burgundy Lord of Fruymont, etc. Walraeffe of Bredroed Lord of Loredwod, etc. john of Merode Lord of Soeterwould, etc. with hoods covered over their faces, which were the chief Mourners for the Low Countries.  
12 After these followed Earl Maurice of Nassaw, second son to the deceased Prince, in a long black fine mourning cloak, the train whereof was borne by another Lord: on the right hand of Prince Maurice went the Prince Elector of Colen, by name Truckses: on the left hand of him went the Earl of Hoghenlo. There followed these personages, three other Lords, uz. William earl of Nassaw, Philip earl of Nassaw, and the Earl of Solmes, which were the last of the chief Mourners for this deceased Prince.  
13 Then came after these the General States.  
14 After them the Council of those States.  
15 Next unto them the States of Holland, 16. and their Council.  
17 Then followed the Provincial Council.  
18 The Precedent of Holland.  
19 Then the high Council and the Precedent.  
20 The Secretaries of the States.  
21 The Consuls and Senators of Delft.  
22 The learned Preachers.  
23 The Captains of the Guard.  
24 The Captains of the wars.  
25 The chief officers of public authority in the Common wealth, whom last of all followed a multitude of common people innumerable.  
With this solemn, sorrowful and mournful funeral was the good Prince of Orange buried in the chief Church of the city of Delft on Friday the third of August 1584. as aforesaid. He lived almost 52. years, uz. 51. years 11. months and 25. days, accounted from his birth. 
The time of his life, and description of his parsonage.  He was of body well compact, of stature little more than mean, of good complexion, aburne beard, somewhat full faced. Who so will desire to know his sharpness of wit and disposition of mind, may best discern them by his honourable actions and godly government so many years.  
26 His title was this. William by the grace of God, Prince of Orange, 
Lib. 12.  Earl of Nassau, Catzenelenburg, Dietst. Viand, etc. marquess of Der Vere, and Flushing, Burgrave of Antwerp, 
His Style.  Barron of Brede, Diest, Grymberg, Arkize, Nozeroy, etc. Lord of Castebelyne, etc. Governor General of the Low Countries, viz. of Brabant, Holland, Zealand, Vtrecht, and Frizland, Admiral of the seas in the lower Germany.  
27 His matrimonial state was first joined with the only daughter and heir of Maximilian of Egmond, 
His Matrimonial estate.  and Earl of Buren and Leerdam, etc. of whom he begot Philip Earl of Buren, which in the year 1577. was captived by Duke de Alva, & sent into Spain, who is now Prince of Orange: Also by the same wife he had one only daughter named Marie, married to the Earl of Hohenlo. He had to his second wife the Lady Anne only daughter of Maurice Duke of Saxony & Prince Elector, by her he had one only son named Maurice, at this present General of the united Provinces, and Admiral of their seas: and by his said second wife he had also two daughters, the one named Anne, and the other Emilia. 
His Issue.  He had to his third wife Charlot of Bourbon daughter to the Duke of Montpensyer, of whom he begat six daughters, namely, Ludovica, juliana, Elizabetha Flandrina, Katherine Belgora, Charlot Brabantina, & Aurelia Antwerpiana. And he had to his fourth and last wife the Lady Loyse daughter of jasper de Coligni, Lord chastilion and high Admiral of France slain at Paris in the year 1572: of her he begat two sons, the one named Frederick, the other Henry of Nassau: and he left begotten of an unknown woman his base son named justine of Nassau, at this day Admiral of Zealand. These twelve sons and daughters left the said deceased Prince of Orange behind him as aforesaid.  
28 His progeny was this, 
His Progeny  he was the son of William of Nassau the brother of Henry of Nassau, who had both to father john brother of Enghelbert: both which had for their father also john Earl of Nassau, and the Lady Leona his wife to their mother.  
29 His brethren were these. 
His Brethren.  This Prince William of Nassau was the eldest of five brethren, with himself, namely the four other were Lodowick, Adolphe, and Henry, which three were slain in these wars of the Low Countries: the fourth being john the second son of Nassau as yet living at Dilemberge. This Lord hath living also many sons and daughters, of which sons the two eldest Earl William and Earl Philip did bear arms in the Low Countries, stoutly against the Spanish forces.  

His Sisters.  30 His sisters were many, married to many & mighty personages, full of issues: so as julian mother of this Prince William Countess of Sheerenbergh, a chaste wife and painful Lady, when she had lived seventy five years, in the year of Christ 1578. saw (which came of her and her issue) Earls Sons and Nephews, to the number of 123. personages. A goodly, great, and most rare blessing of God no doubt, and a token of God's great loving favour and comfort unto those noble Parents in their life time, and a singular great comfort and mutual consolation, unto the posterity after their death, upon which Princes death the author of this Belgic history hath written both this title, Epitaph, and verses in Latin following.    

ILLVSTRISS MEMO GULIELMI PRINCIPIS AVRAIci, Comitis Nassoviae, Cattorum, Dietzii, Viandae, Marchionis Verae & Vlissingae; Burgravi Antwerpiae, 
Historia Belgica lib. 12.  Vicecomitis Bisontij; Baronis Bredae, Diestij, Grinbergae, Arlei, Nozereij▪ etc. Domini Castrobellini, etc. Propraesidis Generalis per universam Belgiam; Praesidis Brabantiae, Hollandiae, Zelandiae, Vltraiectini Frisiorum, etc. Admiralij;  
HEROIS FORTISSIMI, ORTHODOXAE Ecclesiae propugnatoris, literatorum maecenatis; Patris Patriae; Belgarum Assertoris, pro quibus nec sibi, nec suis pepercit; Delphis sclopi ictu transuerberati: joh. Esychius  
Quod habuit extremum in Dominum suum Clementiss: Honoris Monumentum, cum luctu posuit.  
Vixit Annos, LI. Menses, II. Die, XXV, obijt Anno Christi, M. D.XXCIV. Sexto Idus julij.  

CARMEN EPITAPHIUM.  
QVem non Hispani imperiosa potentia Regis,  
Dirùm tot annos fulminantis impulit;  
Quem non insidiae, scelerum noxâ, ante reclusae,  
Terruere; non tot Principum inconstantia  
Princeps Auraicus Belgarum assertor & vltor  
Ecclesiae; Ille terror inquirentium  
Horrisonis (present Deo) Tranquillus in undis  
Burgundio superatur à 
* Qui falsis subscriptionibus insinuatus Aulae.  Falsario.  
Oppetit & Quartus pulchram per vulnera mortem  
Nassoviorum, qui jacent pro Belgica.  
Vah Satan? ad facinus quem Auri sitis alta coêgit,  
Os dum latice 
* Quae promulgata A.C. M. D.XXC. proposito percussori praemio 25000. coron.  Proscriptionis proluis.  
Infaelix de morte 
* Andegavensis qui obierat eodem die mensis praecedentis.  Ducis modò nuntius: atra  
Nox tequé & Auctorem premant oblivia  
Sicut agit penna solvi metuente superstes,  
(Rumpatur Invidens Iberus) Gloria.  
Auraicum summis certantem Heroibus & iam  
Dijs fidelium Triumphis institum.  
unum hoc, O Proceres, advertite, quemlibet ista  
Scelesto ab uno posse tolli machina:  
Infestam Hispanus capitis septemplicis Hydram  
Quo iure, quáve iniuria, dum promo vet.   

AD MAURITIUM NASSOVIUM. G. F.  
VLturus Patrem & Patruum, Virtutibus, annos,  
Olim Africanus antevenit Scipio:  
Mauriti, Patrias si vis ulciscier Vmbras,  
Paterna string Scipio, Vestigia.  
FINIS.    


The Civil Wars there under the Prince of Parma and the States.  
Manifestly thus it appeareth in the sight of God and all the world, what impiety, malice, mischief and cruelty the Pope and Spanish king hath with foxlike subtlety, & lion-like force practised against the nobles and States of the Low Countries, infringing their ancient privileges, breaking fidelity in contracts, violating the bonds of amity, and violently oppressing all integrity of loyal subjects and faithful servants of God, seeking to make havoc of high and low, rich and poor, young and old, with more than Turkish tyranny in those dominions most untolerable. Neither rest these two there contented with the great effusion of innocent blood like conquerors, preying on, or spoiling every silly sheep with their jaws imbrued, waxing ever more hungry, never rest raging hither and thither, casting down Bulls, threatening silly lambs, swift of foot, and greedy of tooth to tear in pieces the christian members, and to quaff up their blood in their unquenchable thirst in those Countries: but this Antichrist and his adherent unjustly without cause given them (as the just God judge and revenger of all wrongs knoweth) do now also bend all their forces even in this year, against the most lawful, natural, christian, and religious Phoenix of feminine sex, and the most peerless Paragon of true professing Princes, Elizabeth Queen of England her gracious Royal person, her noble lawful kingdoms, natural faithful subjects, and happy peaceable estate and government. This Antichrist, I say this Romish seven headed, ten horned, and triple crowned Dragon (whose tail draweth the third part of the stars from heaven and casteth them to the earth) presumeth to approach near the woman, 
Revel. 12.  the Church of God, the defender of the faith, and watcheth wilily with inward and outward Serpentine malice to devour the innocent & harmless child: 
Lib. 13.  whereupon although this Dragon send forth his angels to war with the woman, though he send forth his jesuits the English fugitives, whom he hath nu●led up in Popish abomination many years, and though he again likewise infect, 
Reu. 15.14.16.  and enforce the Locusts and Scorpions of the bottomless pit with his infernal fury: such as Francis Throgmorton, and many other vipers, which would have wrought intestine wars, and civil bloodshed against their natural most gracious Prince, their country and friends by foreign confederacies of the Pope and Spanish King, their abetters, subborners, and supporters, yet to the perpetual glory of God, these wicked Angels, Locusts, and Scorpions (having no power to hurt any good or godly member, but such as themselves which have not the seal of God in their forehead) were overtaken by God's power and providence, and cast out into the earth: and so the Lord of hosts fought for our Queen and us in peace & mercy to our comforts, but in his justice and judgement against our inward and outward enemies, for which God make us thankful to his glory for ever.  

Historia Belgisa lib. 13.  After the death so sought for, and procured of the aforesaid noble Prince of Orange by the said Pope and Spanish king as afore mentioned, the ordering of the affairs both civil and politic, rested in the wisdom of the Nobility and States of the Low Countries: who seeing themselves like sheep left without a Shepherd, a nation without a Governor, and a body without a head, plucking up their spirits unto them, taking heart and christian courage unto them, in their godly, just, and lawful cause for defence of God's true religion, of their ancient privileges, themselves, their wives, children and country; and for eschewing the horrible tyranny of the foreign usurping Pope and Spaniard, their Idolatry, unjust exactions, oppressions, unmerciful vexations, and horrible desolations: do with most careful consideration take opportunity of time, and with mature deliberation to consult upon some peculiar and special protection of themselves and their countries thus grievously distressed. Whereupon in the next year following 1585. (after conference had amongst themselves in the month of May that year) they dispatched into England an honourable ambassade, which arrived at London on the 26. day of june, being personages of great account in the Netherlands: Namely, the Lord james Gryse, the Lord Roger Harsellus in the behalf of Gelderland, Master Noelus Caronus, Lord of Schonwall: (who at this day is resiant in England, Agent for the Estates) and john Dousta Lord of Nortwich for the south part of Holland with eight others, men of great account, which for brevity I do here omit: whom they substitute as their deputies to solicit their cause unto the Queen's Majesty of England: these were lodged about the Tower street, and had their diet in worshipful manner appointed at Clothworkers hall in London upon her majesties own charges. On the 29. of june they repaired to the Court at Greenwich, where they presented unto her Majesty, the Sovereignty of those Countries, which being ratified contained at large 31. several Articles, as to the Dutch history I refer the Reader.  
With godly and neighbourly commiseration, 
The articles contained the yielding of certain towns as pledges to the Queen's Majesty.  whereof her Majesty being pitifully moved to put forth her helping hand, to save that which was in extreme peril; considering well by former accidents how sinister a mind the Spanish king by the Pope's instigation had of long time unjustly borne, of late put in practice, and would now likely proceed further if God and good regard in due time were not her best friends: her excellent Highness therefore to prevent the worst, provideth first for her own safety and her subjects at home, training and mustering of able men in all places of the realm for necessary domestical defence whatsoever might befall; and afterwards in the month of julie, presseth out of the City of London certain convenient companies of Soldiers furnished for the wars, at the charges of the Fraternities, or Societies of the same City, and on the 13. of August following, with certain special brave Knights, approved Captains, and worthy Servitors over them, transporteth all these into Holland, Zealand, Brabant, etc. as other the like Soldiers had been before time sent out of other parts and places of the realm. Of these several Companies at this time, was sent the before named valorous General Norice chief Commander (who coming from thence for that purpose a little before) taking his leave of her Majesty and her Nobility, embarked himself and his retinue on the 24. of August this year 1585. and with a prosperous wind arrived in Holland about the 26. of the same, where his forces being before arrived, he disposed of them as was most convenient, till time and opportunity served for their purpose.  
About this time the Right noble by birth and for virtue renowned Knight Sir Philip Sidney (son and heir of that most noble Sir Henry Sidney Knight, 
Sir Philip Sidney sent over and made Lord Governor of Flusshing. Lib. 13.  sometime Lord Deputy of Ireland, and then Lord Precedent of Wales) was by her Majesty sent over after the said General Norice on the tenth day of October in the year aforesaid: who arriving in safety at Flushing, was on the nineteenth of that month by the States established Lord Governor of Flushing in Zealand: where by his valour, wisdom and great diligence he surprised the town of Axel in Flaunders, and at Doesburgh in Gelderland, 
His honourable actions in the Low countries this year 1585.  made manifest proof of his valour and magnanimity. But as he had lived always in honour, excelling by the Laurel and the Lance (I am but parvus Laodocus in re tam magna, to describe his demerits of fame condignly) so yet amongst others, feeling in his life time his honourable favour, and finding after his death the want of his furtherance unto my poor distressed Muse) I cannot but in duty honour his virtuous, godly and learned life, and with dolour deplore his untimely death, with his honourable actions than lastly performed, as in the next year following hereafter shall appear.  
But to return to the order and proceeding of the history for this year 1585. aforesaid, after that the said General Norice had disposed those several companies under their several Colonels and Captains, and placed convenient Garrisons in the frontier Towns before resigned to her Majesty, namely Briel, Flushing, Oftend, and Berghenoptzome, the very entries into Holland, Zealand, Flanders and Brabant: the said General departed with his forces into Gelderland, where by the special help of God, his own great valour and diligence of his soldiers, he took the Sconce by Arnhem called Iselwerdt, erected where the Isel falleth out of the Rhine: wherein for better success in the enterprise he placed five Ships and two Hoys, which sped very ill for that they were on ground and in the enemy's reach, knowing no way to escape the imminent danger. Which Captain Hunnings on the said fifteen of November that year 1585. perceiving, and seeking to escape the enemy's hands (being already hurt very sore) thinking to leap out of a ship into a boat; but by reason of his armour somewhat heavy, and lighting short, he was unfortunately drowned. Notwithstanding the said General Norice still continued his skirmish on land (in a Sconce which he had butted against them) so manfully, that having sore discomfited them by means of his Fort and that hot assault, the day drawing near to an end, they rested without any more ado.  
On the next day the General, both in respect of his own valour and his country's credit, continued in his determination and purpose to give a new assault. But the enemies knowing the want of ability to withstand his force, and being without hope of help, voluntarily appealed to the law of Arms, that they might depart with bag and baggage: and so they surrendering the Sconce into his hands, the said General with no small credit to his country and honour to his name, yielding humble and hearty thanks unto God for his clemency, entered the said Sconce of Arnhem: in the which he placed such a Garrison, as was fit and convenient for the keeping thereof.  

Histor. Anglica Anno. 1585.  Moreover, the said General Norice determining to leave no thing unattempted that might any way annoy the enemy, and profit his Prince and Country, with a mind unconquerable marched with his forces towards the city of Nimeghem; where by honourable force and Knightly chivalry subduing another of the Enemy's Sconces, he partly cleared the River Rhine: by which deed he opened the passage from Colen and all the high Countries, which was a very profitable and ready help to all the English Campe. This done, by serious pains and industry (as a wise and politic General, letting slip no occasion that might profit his purpose) he raised a mount before the city, and that of such a height and strength, that thereon he planted his ordinance: for that the situation of the town was such, that otherwise he could have done it small hurt, but by means of this new raised mount: On the morrow he shot furiously into the Market place, greatly terrifying the enemies and all the inhabitants of the city.  
The Prince of Parma hearing what had happened, presently marched toward the succour of the city, purposing fully to have given the said English General the repulse: who for the better and more easy accomplishment thereof intended to travel secretly in the night, thinking thereby to take the Englishmen unprovided for their coming. As indeed so they had done, if the commendable and diligent care of our Spials had not prevented that inconvenience, 
The Prince of Parma marcheth to meet General Norice.  before warning the Camp of their coming, who at that instant were not far off. At length the enemies approaching, having for their guide and governor the said Prince of Parma (a man of great force and dexterity in feats of wars) and the English having for their Governor the said noble General Norice, a man of no less courage than activity, he with a most valiant heart and cheerful voice encouraged his soldiers to the encounter: wherein he himself, 
The battle bidden by the Prince, but the General had the victory.  for better emboldening of all under his charge, and for their only evident example of valour and courage, gave the first charge, and that so terrible to the enemies, that turning their backs they fled away as men amazed, not being able to sustain the force of his hands: which the Englishmen well perceiving, most venturously followed their fleeing fainting foes, with such fury that the Spaniards were by heaps laid level with the ground. In which conflict were slain of the enemies, to the number of three thousand: at what time also there was taken from them in the field nine Ensigns, which loss was no small grief to the enemies, greatly bewailing their unfortunate success: which was done with very small loss of the English, as it was found by the due survey and view made of such as were then missing.  
This skirmish was sought on Monday the 15 day of November in the said year 1585. after our English General, with those worthy Knights, Colonels and Captains were employed in the said Low Countries as aforesaid. For which gracious victory by God given unto them at this present, great and memorable thanks and praise with singular joy and comfort as well by the actors as by the inhabitants of those Countries, were rendered unto Almighty God, and made manifest amongst them with mutual consolation unspeakable. And not thereabouts only where this honourable exploit was performed, but also where and when the said General and the Camp returned thence to Briel (being made Governor thereof under and for her royal Majesty) he was in most honourable manner received by all the States and Burghers with great triumph and joy: 
General Notice made governor of Briel.  who in every corner of the City made great bonfires, in every Church rung their bells, and many a great volley of shot for to welcome him into the City: where all the people with loud voices every where said, God save good Queen Elizabeth, God save the good Queen of England.  
The names of such Captains as were hurt before this conflict at Arnhem Sconce were these: 
Captain Thomas Louels note.  Captain Thomas Lovel Sergeant Mayor, Captain Borowes, Captain Thomas Knowles, now Sir Thomas Knowles, Captain Charles Blunt, now Lord Mountioy, Captain Vauisor brother to the now Sir Thomas Vauisor, and Captain Thomas Wilson. In all six Captains hurt at that time. The number of the English slain at this conflict at Nemeghem, as Captain Thomas Lovel told me, was some 60. persons and not above.   

The civil Wars there under the Prince of Parma, and the Earl of Leicester.  

Historia Belgica lib. 13.  AFter the said Ambassade sent by the Estates of the Netherlands unto the queens Majesty of England Anno 1585. (as before by composition in 31. several Articles contained) which for brevity I omit: And also after the memorable enterprise by the noble General Norice and the English forces happily achieved against the Enemy at Arnhem and Nemeghem, last before recited in the same year: it pleased her gracious Highness to send now over into the Netherlands the most nobly renowned Lord Robert Dudley Earl of Leicester, Baron of Denbigh, and one of her majesties most honourable privy Council, etc. with a magnificent and worthy train of Noblemen and Gentlemen attending upon 〈◊〉 into those Netherlands: where he (arriving at Flushing in Zealand the 19 of December Anno 1585.) was of the Magistrates and Townsmen most honourably entertained, and also with him the Lord Robert Devoreux earl of Essex, and other English Nobles and Gentlemen to the number of seven hundred horse. From thence out of Zealand they sailed into Holland, where in all Cities and places as they passed they were joyfully received, until they came unto the Hague in Holland, in the month of january 1585.: and there the Estates general and Provincial came unto his Excellency, friendly embraced him, and honourably entertained him, and all his train with surpassing joy and welcome: and on the Calends of February following surrendered unto him (as to her highness Lieutenant General of all her forces there) the government of those united Provinces, uz. of the Duthcie of Gelder's, Counties of Zutphen, Holland and Zealand, the Seigniouries of Vtrecht, Frizland, and Ouerissel, and of other Towns and places which as yet they possessed in Flanders and Brabant. Promising and binding themselves by virtue of their oath in all and every degree from the highest to the lowest, by land and by sea to yield and perform all diligence, obedience and fidelity for their and our general good of peace and wars, from time to time during his government: His Excellency making like promise of his part for the defence of the said Estates, people and Provinces accordingly. Actum Hagae in Hollandia Cal. Februarij 1585. Subscripsit Aersius.  
According to the rule and form of these ordinances the said Earl General taketh upon him the said government: 
Historia Belgica lib. 23.  confirmed in full and absolute authority thereunto by common consent of the said Estates in general, there bearing public offices with the several Governors of those Provinces, Colonels, Captains & soldiers under their charge: for whom and in whose name especially County Maurice of Nassaw and County Hoghenloe, with other Martial Governors, do promise to perform all possible endeavours, assistance, defence and supportation in all points.  
The queens Majesty of England receiving news hereof, was moved in mind, and (thinking these things chiefly done to the end she should be more bounden or tied to inconvenience than she determined) sendeth forthwith thither Sir Thomas Hennage Knight her Vizechamberlaine with letters the 13. of February Anno 1585. aforesaid: 
The Queen's majesties letters unto the States of the Netherlands.  wherein she signified herself hardly to allow the absolute government of those Countries so surrendered unto the Earl of Leicester, and that it seemed very absurb unto her, for as much as her Highness had refused such proffer to be made unto her: and to lay the burden of that government upon her Minister or Officer (before refused of her Majesty) without her Counsel, seemed indeed to be a great sign of manifest ignominy or injury done unto her Highness: as though her majesties wisdom and judgement were wanting, and could not discern what were to be received nor what to be refused. So as that thing was quite contrary and repugnant especially to the Declaration published in print, as touching these affairs: wherein was openly testified, that her Highness gave only succour unto the Netherlands, and unto her Neighbours, and not indeed to intrude or thrust herself into absolute protection or supreme government of those people and Provinces. For these things being so done, now would every man take occasion to think and judge otherwise then her Highness meant herein: especially such persons would do that, who think they may lawfully censure and judge upon Princes doings as they list, 
Historia Belgica lib. 10.  and after their sensuality, so as thereby her majesties fame and honour might chiefly be detracted. 
Note here her majesties meaning and commandment.  And therefore that all the world might know, how justly and uprightly in this behalf she determined to procoode; her highness pleasure is, and she commandeth the said authority to be revoked, and forbiddeth that the Earl shall not use any other authority, then is contained in the mutual Contract made and published. And that thing being so observed, no doubt it would be profitable to the Commonwealth in time to come. And her Majesty further addeth, she made not refusal for that cause that she had not any care of the welfare of those Provinces, but for that she had provident care of her own Honour, and how to stop the mouths of the malignant, and such as were her enemies. The residue which were to be spoken herein, were expressed in her highness letters so written.  
The Estates seeing these letters were in much doubt, and do send answer unto her Majesty touching the same on the 25. of March 1586. out of the City of Amsterdam: 
The answer of the States to her majesties letters.  and excuse the same authority so given to be with all humility and commodity for both parts, and affirm that these things were not done to burden or bind her Majesty more than the Contract contained, but (as cause of necessity so required) they were thus done and passed. They allege how that authority must especially be necessary, and better it was the Provinces to have but one, than two Governors, and it seemed far safer for them to entertain her majesties subject and Deputy, then to choose and authorize another: and such a one as they had before, and such authority to give him, as the same might be revoked at any time. 
The word Absolute interpreted  But for the word (Absolute) they allege, that was only added to distinguish the government, that the same might be discerned from others, that they (by a Proviso) might be ordered, and by commandments and instructions might be bounden and tied the better to perform their duties: and for better execution of Martial discipline, and not that sole and sovereign rule might be given him. That it was by example of the Romans, and other people (salva dignitate Principatus & Dominij, 
Exemplum Romanorum.  quae remansit penes populum) saving the dignity of the Principality and sovereignty which remained in the power of the people: and moreover to the end they might more easily withstand and resist the enemy's practices and enterprises, and that the people's hearts troubled and altogether broken with fear and furious outrage, might be the better succoured and comforted. And so they beseech her Majesty not to forsake them now, in their distress; and promising all duty answerable to her majesties most royal expectation, they return other more words of answer by the said Sir Thomas Hennage, to be related unto her Majesty at large by word of mouth. Actum Amsterdami in Hollandia, 25. die Martij Anno Christi 1586.  
This was the manner of the answer made by the Estates to the Queen's Majesty, concerning the authority wherewith they had invested the Earl of Leycester as Governor General in those countries, and although her Highness was with this excuse somewhat pacified, yet (saith my Author) the Earls authority was amongst many by reason hereof little impaired or diminished.  

The Earl General receiveth contributions, etc.  In the Earl General his name, were received all manner of contributions, payments, taxes, and tallages levied for maintenance of the wars, and for defence of those people and Provinces: which might amount yearly to the sum of 2500000. Florins, besides the commodities of licences and other common provision made for the service by sea, and the assistance or help of the Queen's Majesty: but unto the Earl for his ordinary expenses, the Provinces allowed 100000. Florins to be levied and delivered yearly.  
After this be publisheth orders of military discipline, and by a decree of the 4. of April 1586. at Vtrecht, he forbiddeth the transporting or carrying away of all manner provision of corn, armour▪ and munition, or any merchandise unto the enemies and their confederates: yea, and to the places or ports of such others as were neutral. 
The General maketh orders for Military Discipline.  Moreover he forbiddeth all traffic and natural trade by letters, contracts, or whatsoever other covenants with the enemies to the Queen's Majesty, and to the Estates and people of the Netherlands. Besides all this, he levieth impositions, and contributions upon all Mariners and Shipmaisters of whatsoever foreign Nation coming thither into any Port within the united Provinces, for their private affairs.  
Here I am now to report of a Honourable, true and rare piece of service performed immediately after the Earl of Lecister had taken his oath at Hague, 
Captain john prise his relation of the service performed at the City of Grave. Anno 1586.  and then coming to Vtrecht for special service of the land, which the States most earnestly required for the relief of the City called the Grave being a key into Gelderland: which was between the months of April and May Anno 1586. The said Earl of Leycester with the consent of the States, sent for that honourable great soldier Sir john Norice from Arnhem, demanding of him his opinion of the said relief of Grave: To be short his answer was, that if it would please his excellency to send him with a sufficient force of Foot, he would be ready to perform the uttermost of his service therein. Whereupon Count Hollock was appointed to go up the river of Grave with certain Ships of war for that service, a little higher than Battenborow, and there stayed, until Sir john Norice then colonel General of the said land forces came unto the same Island on this side Battenborow: bringing with him some eight Ensigns all English, and sending for Captain john prise, who was at that present Sergeant Maior of the Army. he came from the City of Amersford with eight Ensigns more, all English, marching towards Sir john Norice. And so soon as Captain prise was come the said Sir john Norice rose with his troops, & marched within half a mile of Battenborow Castle, which the enemy then possessed, which was upon a dike for most part, and there the camp set down for a day or two, until they had further direction. Presently the said Sir john Norice went aboard of Count Hollocks Ship, where they took counsel how they should relieve the Grave: 
General Norice taketh counsel with Count Hollocke how to relieve Grave.  for the enemy was set down being 12000. strong before it, and had also chained up the river with a bridge made over for their men to pass to and fro, and a sconce at either end of the bridge. The said Count Hollocke & General Norice concluded, that there should be a certain loop sconce set up within a little English mile of the enemies bridge, and so to come nearer and nearer to the enemy: whereupon the said General sent unto the said Captain prise (who in his absence had the command of the troops) to bring him 200. pioneers, and 200. chosen soldiers. Who so soon as they came fell to work and cast up the said Sconce, and working most part of that night, and the next day, the enemy (imagining and seeing plainly that they were about such a matter) sent out 2000 men, and procured a small skirmish with us, we having advantage upon the said ditch: but what with Count Hollocks men of war, playing upon them, and the land forces they were enforced that afternoon to retire to their Campe. But this great soldier Sir john Norice knew very well it was needful to fall to his work again very hard, for he knew well that the next day the enemy would be doing with him again, 
The General appointeth Captatne prise to his charge.  and would not suffer him there to rest, and therefore he called unto him the said Captain prise, and willed him to go back again to the Camp and to choose out 300. more soldiers out of the 8. Ensigns of the best and choice men, which the said Captain did send him with his own Lieutenant called Anthony de Boys. And besides all this the said General Norice sent to the said Captain prise that he should come himself, and bring with him 7. whole Companies, which were in all 800. men, and be with him by break of day or there about. But before the said Captain prise could come with these Companies, the enemy was approached and come to the said General's sconce with 4000 brave choice men of his Army, the said General being in the Sconce with 500 choice men, and a brave Captain with him named Sir john Burgh, mother to the late Lord Burgh, the enemy and General Norice being in fight a long hour upon the Sconce at the push of the pike, there were many slain on both sides: so as the said enemy getting the Sconce, the said General was hurt, Sir john Burgh lost one of his fingers, and was hurt very sore beside: also the enemy following in chase, and killing our men▪ until such time as the said Captain prise came with his 7. Ensigns, who having great care in placing of his men to gain all the vantage of the dike, had put with a Sergeant 50. Musketeers on the one side of the dike, which was of some good breadth, and 50. more with another Sergeant below the dike on the other side, 
Captain john Pryses good service against the enemies.  and also placed two or three Officers in the Rearward, giving them straight charge that if any man should retire or run away to kill him. Presently the said Captain prise met with the said General Norce all bloody about his mouth, which was no small grief to the said Captain to see the same. Quoth the said General, O Captain prise, welcome, now for the honour of England, behold there is the enemy, which was hard at his heels. Captain prise hereupon commanded all his Shot courageously to deliver a volley in the very teeth of the enemy: and presently came upon them with their pikes, so that the enemy retired with the loss of a great number of men, for the said Captain prise and his soldiers had the kill of them even at his will the space of two English miles and a half, until he came unto a place where a windmill stood, whither were sent by the enemy a thousand fresh men to second the others: the said Captain prise being foremost went so fast, and the rest behind still following the execution of the enemy and weary, had not with him at the encounter with this supply above 50. or 60. men at the most: whereupon this fresh company of the enemy delivered a volley of shot upon the said Captain, and shot him through the thigh, and killed some of his men: but the said Captain by the help of some special men about him was rescued from the enemy, and presently the said General Norice sent him a horse to carry him away down to the water side. Then the enemy following and killing some few of our men, the ships of war played upon them so hotly, that they made them to retire to their Army. The General and Sir john Broughe were carried into Count Holloks Ship, where being very weary and wounded, they rested until the next day, where there was a general revew what men were slain on both sides, 
A view of the loss of men on both parts.  & there was found by the revew taken by the Count Hollocke and the English Officers of the enemy above 700. men slain at the secong charge: besides them which were slain by the said General Norice, at the Fort before the coming of the said Captain prise, being some hundred or there about. There were slain of our men that day, not fully 150. men, as was found by a general revew of the said Officers. And so the next day the said City of Grave was relieved, the enemies bridge broken, and Count Hollocke sent into the town seven horses laden with butter, cheese, munition, and other necessaries: which was to the great honour of our English nation, and the great comfort of that distressed garrison.  
The Belgic history maketh this report of the field fought at Battenborow aforesaid, 
Historia Belgica lib. 13.  & of the siege of Grave, viz. Parma in the beginning of winter, Anno 1586. by Count Charles Maunsfield, causeth the City of Grave to be besieged and compassed about with four Bulwarks or Forts, and entering upon the bridge of Naia near the river, he causeth all the passages to be made sure within, and without, and all manner of victuals to be kept within the City. In the Bulwarks he had placed some 1500. soldiers for a garrison, and besides 5000. Spaniards more or less, the rest were serving in the Tents, almost half a mile from the City. After these had for 3. months' space and more besieged the Grave, the Earl General came from Hague by Harlam and Amsterdam in Holland unto Vtrecht, and sent about 400. horsemen into Velonia or Velna as far as Niekerke to help the Citizens of the Grave.  
General Norice and Count Hoghenlo marched unto them with 2000 footmen which carried victuals and provision into the City, for with their horsemen they could do no good. These footmen at the first invade the Bulwark called the Molensconce half a mile from the Grave, and after that fortify themselves in a new sconce not far from the Spaniards Bulwarks: which they perceiving came fiercely upon them with 3000. of their chosen soldiers to surprise them, and at the second or third assault drive away their workmen even in the very erecting of their Sconce, who meet some 900. of the garrisons, and there make a stand: which the Spaniards perceiving, charged them a fresh, and drove them away to the next Sconce, though the Spaniards so doing five hundred of them were slain, & many were wounded: amongst whom were seven Captains of companies, and two men of great account, from whom the Englishmen took away a brass piece of Ordinance. And thus was the field fought at Battenborow, as that history mentioneth: so of the siege of Grave when Parma had beaten it with 24. pieces of battery, he so battered and rend the walls thereof, that he compelled the Citizens and their garrisons to yield the Town unto him: who entered the same with his forces, and gave them leave to depart with wife and children and all that they had, whither soever they would with bag and baggage.  
Immediately after the service so done at the Grave, and surrendering or yielding the same unto the enemy, the Earl General caused the Lord Hemert a Martial governor, with certain others, to be apprehended, carried to Vtrecht, prosecuted by order of law, and put to death in the presence of all the Captains for most part & of the soldiers lately serving at the Grave: although (saith my Author) they had done no treason, nor made any secret confederacy with the enemy. But through a certain youthful want of skill in Military service, had rendered up the town of Grave unto the enemy: which act of the General (saith my Author) turned away the hearts of many Noblemen, and inhabitants there from him, especially because they saw one Welsh, sometimes a Captain of the English forces▪ and a notable Traitor (before taken by County Hoghenloe) which with others more such as himself was, betrayed the city Alosto in Flanders, and delivered it unto the Enemy) was not put to death, but preferred in Military service: and also Sir William Stanley and Rowland York, two notable fugitives and false forsworn Traitors to their Prince and Country, escaping unpunished likewise.  
The Earl General in the month of August 1586. having gathered a convenient army of English, Dutch and other Nations, sent the first company under Sir john Norice and Sir Thomas Cicill, 
Historia Belgica lib. 13.  now Lord Burley, Knights, who placed them near unto Seuenter in Cleveland, purposing to march towards the Prince of Parma and his forces. But the Earl General himself the 6. of September Anno 1586▪ departeth from Arnhem in Gelderland towards Eltem in Cleveland, 
The Earl General marcheth to meet the Prince of Parma.  honourably accompanied with Prince Emanuel son of Anthony King of Portugal, the Lord Truxsis the Prince Elector of Colen, County Maurice of Nassaw, County Philip of Nassaw nephew to the deceased Prince of Orange, the Counties Solmes and Obersteyn, the Earl of Essex General of the horsemen, the Lord Peregrin Bartu Lord Willoughby, the Lord john North Baron of Kirtlington, Sir Philip Sidney Lord Governor of Flushing, and others of great authority. And having taken a view of his host, his Excellency numbered his footmen to be about 7000. and his horsemen 1400. But this army seemed unto him insufficient to give Parma the repulse (who was said to have 12000. footmen and 3500. horsemen). And for that he would deliver the city of Berck upon the Rhine from the present siege of the Enemy, he determined therefore first by policy to assault Doesburgh in the County of Zutphen, to withdraw the Prince of Parma from the siege of Berck aforesaid.  
This town of Doesburgh was in times past called of Drusus the son of Tiberius Caesar Roman Emperor, Drusburg, who caused the River of Rhine from a very ditch to be digged and enlarged beyond Arnhem aforesaid, into an Island at the town of Drusburg, which at this day is now also called Drusus Ditch. The city is high walled, after the old manner, and environed with large and deep Ditches. There were within the same three hundred Walloons in garrison sent from the prince of Parma thither, and also armed citizens five hundred more or less. The Earl General sendeth County Hoghenlo, Sir Philip Sidney, and others the Leaders of the forces with five hundred horse and eight hundred footmen in the night time to discover and beset the city about: himself with the rest of the army came after them the ninth day of September: his Excellency commands them in warlike wise quickly to entrench themselves, and to make provision for a battery. On the Thursday five pieces of ordinance were mounted, which made two great breaches: which the towns men with all possible haste and diligence made up again and fortified. And whereas the Ditch being three foot broad and more, and thirty foot high encompassed the City, the assault seemed very difficult to be made: but the soldiers being thereunto encouraged, the Earl General determined to try the assault: whereunto he appointed County Hoghenlo with his Germans and Scots, and Sir john Norice with his Englishmen and Zelanders to give the assault. When the besieged townsmen saw that, they offered to yield upon certain conditions: which being refused, they yield up the city (only with safety of their lives) the Lord Borough and Sir William Stanley (the government being given unto the Lord Borough) entered both into the town.  
And to the end his Excellency might now next of all withdraw the Prince of Parma from the siege of Berck, he taketh his journey towards Zutphen, one of the four chief cities in Gelder's, famous by name in respect of other cities, populous and well defended: when he understood it lacked victuals, he went about either to take it, or else to withdraw the Prince of Parma from Berck, which thing so happened. Zutphen was in the keeping and defence of john Baptista Taxis, a man courageous in fight, the Lieutenant Colonel to Verdugo Governor of Groaning: and seeing even from this city there situate over the River of Issell all the country of Velue and Holland were troubled and molested with the Enemy (and therefore the Estates not long before had builded a Fort or Sconce of defence: but by reason of the great floods and too much violence of water there increasing, incontinently after they were driven away from thence) therefore the citizens of Zutphen strengthened and fortified the same again. And because they of Zutphen extorted spoiling exactions throughout all the Velue, by reason of the commodity of these their new erected Fortresses, the Hollanders two years passed besieged the same in vain almost for ten months space. The Earl General now increasing his army, joineth a great part of those soldiers (which under the Lord Rihovias' and Cosmus Pescarengio were gathered to invade Flaunders) and forthwith pitcheth his Tents by the River side and before Zutphen itself, on the 18. day of September 1586: and with boats chained together cross the River almost a mile from the city made a bridge to pass from the one side to the other.  
When his Excellency had thus pitched his Tents there, he took his journey thence with all speed towards Deventer in Ouer-Issell (for as yet there were jars and discords within the City) and though the city also did contribute with other cities, yet did it refuse to conserve or keep orderly mutual league with them: he entereth into the city, having for his guard about four hundred footmen, and two troops of horsemen: and when he had received news that Parma had left Berck, he made towards his Tents with all speed that he could, and strengthened them so soon as possible might be, the more confidently to besiege the said city of Zutphen aforesaid. The Prince of Parma fearing lest the Earl General should prevail against Zutphen, and understanding that the town of Berck aforesaid, was well defensed and hard to be won: when he had already fortified the Isle before the town in the River of Rhine, and blocked and besieged it about with other Forts and Sconces, and thought he had sufficiently furnished it with victuals and all other necessaries, departing from thence on the 22. ot September Anno 1586. he marcheth towards Wesel in Cleveland and the Castle there, and making a bridge of ships had passed over the River of Rhine, and had made Forts from the other part of Resa upon the Rhine and other places, whereby he might both fortify the Bridge & defend himself in his journey more safely, he came to Bercklo, and from thence he sendeth his provision to be conveyed into Zutphen aforesaid.  
The Earl General so soon as he perceived that the Prince of Parma's provision so carried in was not sufficient for the Garrison there, the next day he determined to set upon the Garrison: and committed that service to Sir john Norice and Sir William Stanley, with a great number of footmen, and to certain others with a great number of horsemen. And when on the 23. of September the Prince of Parma had again commanded some more provision to be that morning conveyed into the town, 
Historia Belgica lib. 13.  guarded with seven troops of horsemen, and two thousand Harquebuziers, they performed his commandment: and in a certain well fenced place near the Village called Warresfeld (in the way almost a mile off from the City) they made a stand. In the mean time while the carriages and wagons do enter into the city, presently the Earl of Essex, the Lord Willoughby, Sir William Stanley, Sir Philip Sidney, Sir William Russell, 
The English forces suddenly assail their enemies.  Sir Henry Norice, and his brother the General Sir john Norice, having with him about two hundred horsemen, also fifteen hundred Musquetters, and Sir William Stanleys' Regiment, with as much speed as they could marching thither, do suddenly and fiercely charge the enemies sooner than they thought for, by reason of a great mist which dimmed and darkened their eyes at that time. But even these English forces were by and by encountered by certain troops of the enemy's footebands out of a very commodious place like unto a Fort: and yet did the English very courageously and valiantly pass through and endure the manifold stormy hot batterings of the bullets, and yet not one of them once broke his order: all keeping themselves constantly together in a wonderful manner. Then the enemies not knowing what number of Englishmen these were whom they saw approach nearer unto them, they quickly send out under Captain George Cressy Albanoy a troop of horsemen: which being well beaten and dispersed here and there (whereof many were slain and taken) they send out again County Hannibal Gonzaga with his troop, 
The enemies well beaten and scattered.  which in like case were overthrown, and he himself by a deadly wound there slain. So the victor's pressing through the thickest of the Harquebuziers, there the third troop being a troop of the Enemy's horse, seemed as if they would resist them: but by and by they turn their backs, run away, and so depart the field, after two victorious troops of the English forces had slain and sore wounded 180. of the enemies: themselves having of theirs only but thirty persons of all their companies slain and wounded: amongst whom was that right nobly renowned Knight Sir Philip Sidney before remembered, of whose action and manner of death at large I have thought good here, according to the report of George Whetston and others, actors and eye-witnesses there, thus to declare the same.  
I have before (by occasion ministered unto me) made mention of the virtuous life and valorous service of that renowned Knight Sir Philip Sidney, the last year in the Low Countries, spent to the advancement of God's glory, honour of his Prince, and benefit of God's Church and of the kingdom of Christ: now is occasion given me to set down his honourable enterprise a little before his death, and so thereby to make his virtuous life, valorous service, and honourable death more rightly renowned unto the posterity. Thus it happened in the latter end of the next year following 1586. the English Nobles, 
The English forces approaching towards Zutphen.  uz. the Right Honourable Robert Earl of Essex, by his valour reviving his father's fame; the Lord Willoughby, the Lord General Norice, Sir William Russell, and Sir Thomas Parrot, Sir Henry Norice, with divers others both Knights and Gentlemen of good account serving then on horseback; this famous worthy Knight Sir Philip Sidney as forward as the best (all these being mounted against the enemy, and his power approaching on the 22. of September 1586. unto the town of Zutphen in Gelderland: 
Sir Philip Sidney mortally wounded. ) This noble Knight like Caesar charged the enemy so sore, that first an envious Musketeer from the spiteful Spaniards espying his opportunity slew his horse under him: who getting to horse again, was with a poisoned bullet from the enemy shot in the thigh, wanting his Cuisses, which might have defended him. The wound being deep and shivering the bone, yet his heart was good, and his courage little abated, one udal a gentleman alighted and led his horse softly, to whom he thus spoke: Let go, let go till I fall to the ground: The foe shall miss the glory of my wound. And so riding out of the field with a rare and constant courage, his wound was searched, no salve too dear but was sought, no skill so curious but was tried to cure, ease, and recover this noble Soldier languishing in pain, all remediless. Who feeling death drawing on, desired yet (were it Gods will so to be) that he might live to do his Country more good service: alleging that he feared not death, but lamented that his years as yet (being but green) brought forth but leaves, the blooms being fair, no fruit yet appearing, his life could not be lengthened for the enlargement of that good, which both in heart he wished, and in power he would have performed towards his Prince and country, had he lived here longer: who being demanded if he feared not any whit to die, answered: No whit because I live thereby.  
Touching the honour of the field there fought, as all our English Lords and Knights by their valours much diminished the enemy's force and daunted his courage: so amongst them Sir Thomas Parrot stroke down Gonzaga at a blow, County Hannibal was left for dead in the field, and Captain George one of the enemy's commanders, was by the worthy Lord Willoughby taken prisoner: only Captain Thomas and Captain Martin amongst our English were slain in that fight, and not any more of account missing. So by this honour ensued the untimely death of this renowned noble Knight on the 17. day of October 1586. living just 25. days after his received hurt, in hope by death to inherit with Christ the Crown of life and glory. Whose mortal death how greatly it was lamented of all sorts, from the highest to the lowest, who so please may look and read in the Reportarie of this action, afterwards penned by George Whetston Gentleman: where he declareth how the corpse of this noble deceased Knight being brought over in the Black Pinnace, so called, was shrined in a Hearse within the minories in London: and his funeral day being appointed upon Tuesday the 16. of February next after following in that year 1586. The solemn order of the same was thus martialled in honourable manner, uz. having three Earls and other Lords of the States his chief mourners, with all their train as they followed the Corpse. After them went Sir Wolston Dixi Knight then Lord Mayor of London, and the Aldermen mourning in their purple robes. And last of all a warlike band of worthy Citizens his well-willers, with weapons trailed in solemn wise, brought the Corpse from out of the Quire of the Cathedral Church of S. Paul in London (after a learned Sermon there made) to the upper North-east end of the Isle above the Quire by the second pillar, where with solemn honourable ceremony usual, the corpse was laid to his rest in Christ jesus: which done, the said soldierlike Citizens bestowed for their last farewell of their beloved noble friend and Captain, two volleys of shot, and so returned home every man to his house, heavy, mournful and sad for the loss of so virtuous, honourable and true renowned parsonage: upon whose death the aforesaid George Whetston made this Epitaph.  
HEre under lies Philip Sidney Knight,  
True to his Prince, learned, stayed and wise:  
Who lost his life in honourable fight,  
Who vanquished death, in that he did despise  
To live in pomp, by others brought to pass:  
Which oft he termed a Diamond set in Brass.  
There is another Epitaph usually pendant at the said pillar under his Crest, Coat Armour, and colours there fixed.  
ENgland, netherlands, the Heavens and the Arts,  
The Soldiers, and the World, have made six parts  
Of the Noble Sidney; for none will suppose,  
That a small heap of stones can Sidney enclose.  
His body hath England, for she it fed,  
netherlands his blood in her defence shed:  
The Heavens have his soul, the Arts have his Fame,  
All Soldiers the grief, the World his good Name.  
After the death of this nobly renowned Knight Sir Philip Sidney, so greatly lamented as well in the Netherlands as in England, 
Historia Belgica lib. 13.  the Earl General maketh attempt to take the Fort on the other side of Zutphen, placing his Tents in i Velawe; there is a little Island before the Town of Zutphen, whereunto out of the City, there is an open passage almost on dry foot, by a Ford which now and then hath been kept by a garrison of thirty soldiers only, 
Anno 1586.  this he battereth with his Ordinance and taketh it.  
The Prince of Parma seeing this Island taken, marcheth to the said City of Zutphen, on the fourteenth of October following Anno dicto with a strong power, furnished with great store of all manner of provision, and the next day after returneth back two miles from Zutphen, unto Barcklo, from thence to Wesel and so to Burck: then making a bridge over the Rhine, he falleth sick in his way coming to Brussels, & there being enfeebled by sickness, be ordaineth the marquess of Renty, 
Parma falleth sick.  Lord of Montigni (descended of the house of Lalaigne) chief Governor of the Army in his steed.  
The Earl General battereth with his Ordinance (on the 16. of October anno dicto) the lesser Fort towards the North and commandeth it (after dinner) to be razed to the ground, and in this place there were 300. in garrison: but in the greater Fort were 800. and in the City 2000 when the Prince of Parma himself was absent from thence scarce two miles. 
The Earl General assaileth the little wing near Zutphen.  So as what time neither out of the City itself, nor out of the Fort any man came to resist or withstand the Earls forces, this was by them sharply assailed: in the assailing thereof Edward Standley an English Gentleman (together with Sir William Standley being a Colonel) behaved themselves very courageously. For master Edward Standley climbed up the rampere of the Fort, out of which one supposing to strike him through with a pike, the said Edward took it perforce out of his hands, and held it stoutly, and the more the enemy strove to wrest it from him again, the higher he raised the said Edward Standley so much more out of his reach: whereby he escaped the enemies danger, 
Master Edward Stanley Knighted.  which deed was the chief cause of the victory. For which enterprise the Earl General dubbed him Knight, as by desert, and gave him a yearly pension of 600. florence: in this assault there were no more but eight of the General's men slain, and there the Count Hoghenlo was wounded in the face.  
His Excellency on the next day after this battereth, and so taketh the said greater Fort by commodity of the lesser Fort, and the I'll on the north part aforesaid, so as thereby he might utterly stop the passage between the great Fort and the City: and while the garrison were in fear thereof, leaving their Ordinance there at random, 
The Earl taketh certain Castles.  before the Englishmen had placed their Ordinace, they fled into the City, and so these Forts together with the Castles of Newbeken, Boxburgh, and other places near adjoining were taken, whereby all the Country of the Velawe was delivered from the violent extortions, and burning spoilers there before raging.  
His excellency thought not good to assail the City of Zutphen, because it was strongly fenced, encompassed with waters, environed with walls, and situate between Deventer, Doesburgh, Lokam, Doeterum and the said Fort: for he hoped they would then especially yield unto him: if penury so constrained them by a little and a little. Therefore almost in the midst of winter he removeth his Camp (which thing also Parma doing) the Earl General disposeth his garrisons in good order every where, advanceth certain Leaders, and English Nobles for their approved valours with great honour, and made some others of them Knights.  
And so the Earl General having performed all these services in the Netherlands, was worthily, well, honourably & highly reputed of them hitherto: but after this (he is said by my Author lib. 13. fol. 391. pag. 2. (whether and how he deserved it I know not) to incur the disliking of the Estates in some points, as also in that he placed Rowland York aforesaid Governor of the Fort at Zutphen; 
The Earl incurreth the State's displeasure.  for although they had used him in divers services for his benefit before time, yet he was not found so faithful to them in those causes as he ought to have been, and as was expected. Also for that the said earl General made Sir William Srandley knight, giving him charge over 1200. English and Irish footmen, and over 200. horsemen: into whose doings the Estates General advisedly looking, found him also far more unfaithful then either he should have been, or they worthily deserved at his hands.  
The Earl General when in the deep of winter he understood that Parma was departed out of Gelderland, and knowing for certain that the soldiers appointed in the Osteland (by the confederacy and secret conspiracy of certain false forsworn soldiers which he had in his government) had revolted from him, yea and to their great shame (no necessity urging them) to run away from him: and when he now also saw, that neither time nor place was given him for performance of any further service, and the Town Berck was delivered lately from the siege (from whence Colonel Thomas Morgan was now returned) the Earl General I say now departeth towards Hague in Holland. But when his soldiers leaving at random the I'll before Zutphen, removed their Tents, they were suddenly & fiercely charged by john Baptista Taxus the Spanish Colonel: but they escaped away from the enemy, 
Lib. 13.  with the loss of some six or seven of the Englishmen and no more.  
At that time the Estates finding themselves aggrieved at the Earls indirect doings (as my Author saith) in those countries, do make and exhibit unto him certain requests for divers respects: whereof the whole reformation was reserved until his return again out of England, when God and her Majesty should so permit. And so his Excellency taking his leave of the Estates General (not sufficiently contented with his doings) he taketh shipping at Flushing passeth into England, and arriveth at London on the fourth of December Anno 1586.  
About this time (for as much as Sir Philip Sidney late Governor of Flushing was slain at the siege of Zutphen, 
1586.  
Historia Belgica lib. 14.  as before is said) the Queen's Majesty of England, in his place gave the government thereof to Sir William Russell Knight (son to the Earl of Bedford) a man of great account and worthiness: 
Sir William Russel.  He arrived there at Flushing, and with him Monsieur Tyrlone, sometime Admiral of Zealand, who for suspicions in some points, was a long time kept in prison: but being afterwards set at liberty, and discharged of all matters, went into England to render his due and condign thanks unto the queens most excellent Majesty.  
Before that the Prince of Parma purposed to besiege Sluice in Flaunders, he levied an army throughout all the Provinces of his jurisdiction, making as though he would take his journey through that part of Flaunders, which we call the land of Waste: These forces about the beginning of the month of May next following, which was in Anno 1587. were dispersed into sundry parts about Bridges by little and little increasing. And to the end they should the less suspect them, they give out speeches that they were sent with monsieur de Lamot to the Town of Oudenburgk in Flaunders, 
Anno 1587.  to the end they should repress the outrageous spoils of the Soldiers at Ostend and of Sluice: when now all his host was in a readiness, 
Lib. 14.  and as well the Bands come out of Germany as out of the Netherlands, and other Nations were gathered, they passed on forwards to the siege of Sluice. The Prince of Parma himself on the seventh of june departeth out of Brussels, and the next day came to Bruges leading with him 9 Troops or Companies, after whom the rest of his whole host followed: 
Parma's preparation to march towards Sluice.  the coming of these, and the forerunning fame of their prepartion throughout Flaunders greatly amazed the minds of them at O●tend, and Sluice. Insomuch as from the Governors of both towns, divers messengers were sent into Zealand and Holland to provide themselves of soldiers, victuals, armour, and other necessary warlike furniture against the coming of the enemy towards them.  
I have seen (saith my Author) amongst others the letters of Arnold Greeneveld then Governor of Sluice, written to the foresaid Sir William Russell newly made Governor of Flushing dated the 9 of june 1587. wherein he signified unto him, 
Sir William Russel made General of Flushing.  that he (having made diligent search and view as well throughout all the public magazine or garners of the City, as through all the private garnets within the inhabitants houses of the City) could not yet find any more store of corn, and grain in them all, then might serve for sustentation of their own families even for a very few days.  
Sir William Russell being with the reports of these letters throughlie moved, had a few days before sent for certain companies of footmen from the garrison of Berghen, which within a while after came timely enough: and moreover on the 11. of june dicto he writ unto the States for sovidiers also. But for corn, and grain, and warlike munitions, he writ unto the States of Zealand only, by Peter Vanhela, a Netherlandish gentleman, together with Nicholas Meetkirck Lieutenant Governor of Sluice, sent thither for that very purpose: of whom when they received but only promises for their answer (because the Zelanders denied that the danger was not so much as they made report of in writing.) Sir William Russell therefore by these messengers, 
Sir William russel's care for provision.  instanteth the Zelanders on the tenth and eleventh of that june for speedy dispatch of the requisite provision, and yet (fearing in mean time their wont delays) expressly commandeth Vanhela, that (taking unto him the Magistrate of Flushing for his helper in this case) he would find out some store of corn and grain wheresoever he could get it, and that he without all delay should send it over to Sluice: who the very same day (by diligent search made) commanded by authority so given him, a Ship which he found laden with corn to depart with all speed unto Sluice, which hereby was sufficiently provided of corn and grain for, and during the whole time of the siege.  
The same day arrived three Companies in Zealand which came from the garrison of Berghen, to whom Sir William Russell adding one of his Companies with certain chosen soldiers, made up four just companies, 
Sir Roger Williams.  which were in all very near 800. men: there arrived then also out of England, that worthy soldier Sir Roger Williams, and certain other English gentlemen come thither, by reason of the rumours of the enemies approach, daily about Ostend. So the garrison of Sluice by this means increased to the number of about 1600. men.  
For by this time the Prince of Parma had pitched his Tents in Cadsandt, an Island in Faunders, 
Lib. 14.  & had there the greater part of his host, which was at Bersquin in Flaunders: so that all along that part of the Country they might be safe from the English forces at Ostend: the garrison of Sluice so besieged, made often and stout sallies upon the enemy, wherein although they made great Skermishes to the foil of the enemy, yet lacked they many of their company. Amongst the nobility and gentry of the Netherlands great commendation for their valour gained Nicholas Meetkirck, from whose side his youngest brother Adolphus never departed: also Charles Herogier, Nicholas Mandy, and very many other Captains: amongst the English warriors Sir Roger Williams, Sir Thomas Baskervile, 
Historia Belgica lib. 14.  Sir Francis Vere, and Colonel Huntley, deserved also most worthy and memorable commendations.  
In the mean time when no sufficient power came to succour the Slusians, nor any preparation (before written for) was made by the Estates, all men had then their voices at large towards the before named Earl of Leycester, their late Governor General: saying, that of duty his presence and authority was now requisite, that he might the better succour and defend them in this their present danger.  
The Earl General then being in England well understanding these things, 
The Earl General returns into the Netherlands.  and thinking occasion was now given him to gain praise and glory, means being made thereunto, he embarketh himself with a good number of new soldiers for Zealand: and arriving at Flushing on the 6. day of july 1587. was there received with great expectation and joyful welcome of all men. By this help of his presence and of the Englishmen arrived with him, the Earl (bestirring him by all means possible to deliver Sluice from the present siege) prepareth all necessary adiuments and muniments by sea and by land to repel and raise the enemy from the siege thereof.  
County Maurice of Nassaw when he had intelligence of the Earl Governor General his return out of England into Zealand, came unto him, leaving County Hoghenlo in Brabant with three thousand men, hoping greater helps would come out of Gelderland, Frizland and Vtrecht, to succour him, which came not so well to pass.  
In the mean time the Prince of Parma with his forces so mightily battered the town of Sluice, that he first taking the Fort, battered continually the walls of the town with thirty pieces of Cannon, and eight culverins. To be short, spending upon them 17400. shot (of which on S. james day from three of the clock in the morning until five in the afternoon, were four thousand shot made) so that the Prince of Parma himself confessed, that (to his remembrance) he never performed against any others in one day such violent force and continual assault. By which great and vehement assault given and exceeding battery of his ordinance, there was a breach made in the walls of 250. paces long: into which breach the besieging enemies oftentimes with all their forces made assault upon the townsmen, but were of them with Pikes, 
The resistance of the Slucians'.  Halberds and other weapons so worthily entertained, that after a great slaughter made of them, the rest were glad to retire into their Trenches again.  
In which assault, which lasted from nine of the clock in the morning one day until eleven of the next at noon, the Marquis of Renty was hurt, 
The loss on both parts.  Monsieur Lamot lost his right arm, Strippen the Leader of the Burgundians, with many Captains of great account, besides others, were slain, and (as the Enemy himself afterward confessed) as many hurt also: when they of Sluice so besieged lost but 150. men only, as was found by a just review taken thereof. And although that the Prince with his pioneers often and dangerously annoyed the inhabitants of Sluice, yet such vigilancy and diligence they used, that they met with their enemies in like manner; almost every hour fight with them continually for nine days space, with Swords, Targets and Harquebuziers, so long, until of the 1600. (which were at the first there placed for garrison) there were in five but seven hundred left alive in the garrison, as hereafter more plainly shall appear.  
When the town had thus been besieged now full seven weeks, the Earl General having gathered his forces every where by sea and by land, he entereth into conference with the Estates, taking counsel of his Leaders how to relieve Sluice with all possible speed. A great Navy was then prepared, 
The Earl General prepareth forces to relieve Sluice.  furnished with soldiers by the said Estates. To him came justine or Nassaw Admiral of Zealand, and other Netherlandish Governors by sea. The Earl General with 31. companies of footmen and six troops of horsemen passeth out of Zealand unto Ostend: where the Right Honourable Lord Charles Howard Lord high Admiral of England, and the Right Honourable George Earl of Cumberland with certain ships, wherein went a great part of the Nobility of England, sailed into Zealand, purposely as well to help his Excellency, as to see how he did.  
His Excellency had determined to invade the Port or Haven of Sluice in the very entrance thereof with certain ships, well and strongly furnished, at a certain deep place under the town where the ships might ride safely. But the Sea-governours, Shipmasters, and others experienced in marine affairs (especially they of Zealand) were of a contrary opinion, thinking it not so convenient a thing to attempt that which they could not accomplish, but in so doing should rather bring their ships into assured danger. Touching this enterprise divers were the opinions, which with great dislike troubled their minds.  
Therefore the Earl General seeing he could not so do any good with his ships by sea, seeketh now by what device he can to try the enterprise by land. Wherefore when he arrived at Ostend on the 30. day of july 1587. and unto him were come many English Nobles, besides five thousand men which he brought over with him this later time (though he had not so great a power with him as needful it was for him to have) yet with those which he had going out of Ostend, he gives assault to the Fort of Blanckberg in Flanders, and with determination to have taken Blankenburgh, 
The Earl assaulteth the fort of Blanckberg.  he sent from Ostend some five thousand foot, and certain troops of horse, with two small field pieces, under the command of the Lord Willoughby Colonel general, and Sir William Pelham Lord Martial, his Excellency went in a Pinnace by sea: where when they came they found the Sconce too well manned and provided to be assailed, but with great loss: wherefore his Excellency commanded them to retire to Ostend, where the next day they embarked, and sailed to the entrance into Sluice, where they lay seven days.  
In the mean time the besieged town of Sluice (which had so valiantly endured with so little help such and so great storms with the Enemy, as before is said) now also still for two months space fully continuing, and saw not any man come to help them (but two only Englishman named Captain Allen and Captain Hart, which twice or thrice swum over from Sluice▪ to make relation unto the Earl General and the Estates of the present estate of the town): They I say, now half despairing of any help, by reason the Earl General was at some jar with the Estates, began to wax faint and feeble both in courage and power. For the enemy was now lodged in the Counterscarp, and had sapped into the Rampart, daily undermining further into the town, so as there went a noise amongst them that he was already come into the city. Besides these things, of twenty pieces of ordinance (which they had at first in the town) they had now but four only left, which the Enemy with his vehement shot had not yet broken, neither had they so much powder left them wherewith they were able to hold out fight even for half a day. Wherefore by all men's judgements they were not able to endure the enemy's assault twelve hours longer together, no, not by all means they could possibly devise.  
Therefore incontinently after, hereupon they received compositions from Parma worthy of their valours, uz. That with their bag and baggage, with their Ensigns flying, the match in cock and bullet in mouth, they should also presently depart out of Sluice, and march away down to the ships in Zealand: 
The yielding up of the Sluice.  And all these were in number only but seven hundred (as I said before) residue of that sixteen hundred, which so left the town of Sluice, yielded up unto Parma and his forces on the 4. day of August Anno 1587. aforesaid.  
So the Earl departing on the 17. of August 1587. out of Zealand by ship, he came the next day unto Bergen, where forth with he sent away all the forces which he brought with him, to take the Castle of Hochstrate in Brabant. But that enterprise had no success.  
On the 24. of August he passeth from Bergen to Dordrecht in Holland, where the Estates do meet him and take their leave of him. The 14. of November returning into Zealand to visit the Cities there, and so at Vere in Zealand reconciling unto him certain Captains of the Garrison in secret manner, 
The Earls last return into England.  he departeth thence the 21. of November, and at length taking ship at Flushing the 17. of December Anno 1587. he returneth the second and last time into England.  
The Earl of Leycester (late Governor General, as before remembered) returning into England, lived until September following 1588. in which time the Estates were about once more to entertain him as Governor General again amongst them. But he dying on the 14. of that month Anno 1588. within a homely house in a certain wood near Langley in Oxfordshire at 63. years of age, 
The death of the Earl General.  was buried the 20. day of October Anno 1588. at Killingworth, trying all fortunes.  
In the mean time from the Earls said departure out of the Netherlands, let us leave him so dead and buried, and return to the government of those Provinces again by County Maurice, against Alexander Prince of Parma.  
And concerning the remedy of those evils in the Netherlands, her Highness sendeth her express Letters unto the Lord Willoughby &c. (who had then been in the Netherlands her majesties Lieutenant general under County Maurice, since the Earl of Leicester's first return into England) of whose service from time to time I have here fit place, occasion and time now offered me, to set down all occurrents, as the order of the present history requireth.  
This noble Gentleman by birth, and virtuous Lord by his life, Lord Peregine Bartu (by his title Lord of Willoughby, Eresby and Beck) the only son and heir apparent of the Right Worshipful, or rather Right Honourable (for his birth, virtue and learning) Master Richard Bartu, descended of the Noble house aforesaid (who married the Right noble and virtuous Lady Katherine Duchess of Suffolk, 
The Lord Willoughby his birth.  widow of that nobly renowned Soldier Charles Brandon Duke of Suffolk) being borne at weasel in Duchland in Queen Mary's time (his parents making their journey out of England for the profession of the Gospel) by the tender care and good education of his parents being named Peregrine (as borne in a strange country) in process of time from his youth forwards to his manhood proved pregnant in wit, prompt in knowledge, and practised especially in martial or Military actions: whereby he became the most rare, and surpassing ornament of his noble progeny, and a most honourable and worthy Instrument for the service of his Prince and Country.  
In somuch as his first service wherein the Queen's Majesty employed him, was when in his Adolescency he was sent her Ambassador unto Fridericke the second of that name king of Denmark, 
His services from time to to time.  towards whom he so wisely behaved himself, & from whom he so discreetly demeaned himself towards her Highness in his return and answer, that seldom a better or the like Ambassade hath been in the like case found in one of so young years for her Royal Majesty unto any foreign parts, either before or since his time.  
Next after that his Heroical spirit, yet further affecting Military affairs, as one more desirous to serve his Prince and Country, it pleased her Highness with the advise of her most Honourable privy Counsel (upon the great good opinion and liking they had conceived of his dexterity) when the Earl of Leycester was the first time returned into England, to send him over to the Netherlands as Lieutenant General of the English forces there, 
His service in the absence of the Earl General.  Anno 1586. where his noble courage so conjoined with dexterity, and his forwardness with such fortune, that he himself was foremost in all attempts and enterprises of his forces, fiercely like a Lion he assailed the enemies, fought with them, spoiled them, and foiled them, wheresoever he came. So verily and in such sort, as the Duke of Parma then himself confessed of this worthy Lord Willoughby and his service (for four years space in those Countries) never any English man enterprised more boldly to meet his enemies in the face, more bravely encountered them, nor more painfully pursued and sought them out near and far off, to their disgrace, spoil, and foil, wheresoever he found them.  
At Sutphen (as before is mentioned) when the Prince of Parma came thither to relieve that Town, this worthy Lord Lieutenant Willoughby (under the Earl of Leycester who came not into the fight) being in place more forward than the rest, marched well mounted, met the enemies courageously, broke his Lance in the midst of them, made way with his sword every where, and so forcibly adventured his noble person through the thickest of them: 
His service at Zutphen.  that all his men nearest him much feared, when his bases were bereaved from his body, his plumes plucked away from his head, & his Arms be battered with blows, (except God would then mightily preserve and protect him above all expectation) he should utterly have been foiled in the fight, and spoiled both of life and all things else about him, he was so desperately endangered every way.  
Yet so mightily God himself doubtless prevailed with him, and for him in the instant hazard of his life, that he pressed through the thickest of them without any bodily harm, and in this hot broil, with his own hands caught hold of Signior George Cres●yonyer Albanoys before mentioned page. 88 one of Parma's ch●ef● Commanders of his horse, carried him away prisoner perforce, 
He taketh an Albanoys Captive.  and (maugre all resisting force of the enemies) sent him to the Estates to be kept their Captive.  
No Convoy could at any time escape his victorious hands, neither durst any enemy approach the Town of Berghen, where and while he was then Governor. Such by the favour of God was his virtue joined with his fortune in his said government, 
He challengeth the Marquis of Guasto.  that he was highly honoured of his own garrison, and also greatly feared of his enemies: when he often times made challenge of the bravest of them, as namely the marquess of Guasto (a Nobleman of chiefest account with the Duke of Parma) who yet for all that refused to encounter with him hand to hand.  
After the return of the Earl of Leycester General of her majesties forces in the Netherlands, this worthy Lord Willoughby (as lieutenant) with great wisdom, circumspection, diligence, & fidelity discharged his duty so honourably and uprightly in all points, and at all times, that he withstood the enemies attempt, gained the good will of the people of those Provinces, appeased their troubles, and ended all controversies in the Towns of Medenblick and Narden in Holland, and also of Camphor and Armude in Zealand to the great peace and common quiet of the same Towns and Countries.  
For when Count Maurice and the Estates had with their forces ensconced the Town of Medenblick aforesaid, and had opposed their forces against the soldiers in that Town, they did what they could to surprise, and take the spoil of the Town from monsieur Snoy Governor thereof: but little therein did they and their forces prevail, until (by her majesties most Princely care, and chargeable expenses) this worthy Lord Willoughby treated a reconciliation between the States and those towns: so as those towns were rendered into the State's hands again without bloodshed.  
After all this the Enemies having vainly invaded the Isle of Thole, 
Historia Belgica lib. 15.  lost four hundred of their men: They than marched with their forces towards Berghen opt Zome, near the River of Schalde, 
Parma marcheth toward Berghen opt Zome.  which city they prepared to besiege, seeing they could not obtain the Isle of Thole, being therein hindered, by the watchfulness, virtue and valour of the Count Solme, who in his own person watched night and day in the Fortress all the time that the Duke of Parma's soldiers besieged Berghen.  
This city or Marquisate of Berghen opt Zome hath a dignity, which (after the death of the last Marquis of that house named john, being poisoned in Spain Anno 1567.) descendeth unto his Sister's daughter begotten by the Lord of Merode and Peterson: who is married to the Lord of Bersole Baron of Brabant, a follower of the Spanish King's wars and his adherents, yea though he dwelled at Leyden.  
This city is situate in Brabant by the River of Schalde, and is very large and commodious, builded at the flood Zoma, now by overflowings somewhat distant from Schalde; but with a fit Haven stretching toward Schalde, where it hath a certain head or foreland, which (being environed with strong Ramparts and munitions) a Garrison did use to keep the same sometime.  
There was the same time Governor of that City a certain Colonel named Sir Thomas Morgan (since for his valour knighted) a Welshman borne, he succeeded that worthy Knight Sir William Drury in that government: 
Colonel Drury. Colonel Morgan.  The Garrison in that City were Englishmen, unto whom were adjoined some few Netherlandish horsemen; & amongst all these certain adventurers which made great spoil and took many booties from the enemy, and therefore were called Boot-halers, 
Historia Belgica lib. 15.  in Dutch Buythaillers. These daily made excursions into Brabant, ransacking all places penetrable, making havoc of all they could lay their hands on, 
Outrageous spoilers.  besetting the high ways to Antwerp, Brussels, and Machlin, by land and by water: yea they rob and spoiled travelers by high ways (although they were guarded with convenient companies of soldiers) and miserably bereaved them of all that they had about them, carrying away back with them into the City of Berghen great riches and spoils every day. Moreover, they took very many Merchants and citizens of great account as their Captives, which gave them for their ransoms, ten or twenty thousand Florence's a piece.  
The Duke of Parma therefore on the 24. day of September Anno 1588. sets his soldiers on work to fall to the siege: and for speedier dispatch of the matter he causeth some to convey thither warlike engines, and great ordinance for assault and battery: 
The Prince of Parma layeth siege to Berghen.  and others he maketh to bring thither great and small gabions, Masts, Dealeboords, sparres and boats. He also sendeth thither Carpenters and Smiths with their necessary tools: And first he sets upon the Fortress on the foreland of Berghen, which is called the North Sconce, to cast it down, placing his ordinance upon a bank, and so battereth the same Fortress with many sore blows: and withal he practiseth by subtlety also to further the enterprise by suborning two Englishmen to serve his purpose (as he made account by playing a false cast) whom he knew long since when he kept them his captives. These making themselves moved by Parma's request, took upon them (under colour that most of the garrison were Englishmen) as they bore him in hand to betray the City unto him: 
A pretty practice of two Englishmen to beguile Parma.  and to the end they might more probably perform this action, they alleged unto him that the Garrison were for many causes grown malcontented. These two were called the one William Grimston, and the other Robert Redhead (both of them being before instructed of the Governors of Berghen, 
The politic devise of Redhead and Grimston.  how they should herein demean themselves) with whose privity they performed all this service. They handled the matter so cunningly, that they had by this time gotten of Parma rich chains of gold, and withal large and liberal promises. This politic device was so far forwards brought, that what was promised unto Parma from such persons of the Garrison within Berghen, should be performed on the 24. of October that year 1588. in the chief Fortress which was on the North side of the city: and to the end Parma should be in the greater security and assurance hereof, Redhead pledged unto him his own person, and was bound hand and foot to be killed outright, if he brought not Parma's soldiers within that Fortress.  
Now there were some thirty or forty of his soldiers received into the gate, amongst whom was the said Robert Redhead, when the Lord Willoughby Governor of the town and of the English Garrison let down the Port Cullis of wood over the gate. But the Captains and Leaders of the enemies seeing themselves pressed and thrust at their backs by four thousand of their company, whereof fifteen hundred were Spaniards, (and that in a very narrow place) determined with courage and manhood to assail the Fortress. 
The enemies ●ntrapped, slain, and drowned.  Using the occasion of the low water, and the ebb of the sea, they passed through the Ditch, and coming to the Rampart pulled down the palisado, and fought with our men at push of pike upon the top of the Rampart. But all things were there prepared for Parma's coming, in such sort that they which gave the assault, were to their great loss beaten back. Whereunto also happened that the side of the sea coming in again upon them many were drowned in the Ditch, whose number being added to the multitude of those which were slain, arose to many hundreds, and amongst others were taken there eighteen or twenty Spaniards Gentlemen of some account. This heavy hap and misadventure Parma tolerating so patiently as he could, all sad and melancholic in mind, 
Historia Belgica lib. 15.  caused his forces by a little and a little to raise the siege from Berghen, and so to depart towards Brussels. 
Parma raiseth his siege, and departeth from Berghen.  By this means was Berghen delivered from the siege of the enemies, to their great overthrow and detriment, many of whose chief men of war and of the Nobility were left there behind captived: and the town of Berghen itself from thenceforth became in far much better and safer state, uz. both better fortified and more largely re-edified with new and beautiful buildings.  
After the siege so raised from Berghen, Count Maurice of Nassaw being inaugurate the Marquis of Der Vere in Walchern, in the province of Zealand, 
Count Maurice inaugurate the Marquis of Der Vere.  on the 20. day of November 1588. there in that solemnity, caused new Coins of silver money to be made, which he cast abroad unto the people, having the Arms of Nassaw and of Der Vere stamped upon them with this inscription: on the one side; Nodus Indissolubilis: and on the other side; je Meyntiendray. Other pieces of money were by him also cast abroad, having two hands the one joining with the other, holding between them Mercury's Sceptre or Rod, with this inscription: Auxilia humilia, firma consensus facit.  

In obsidionem Bergensium solutam, Carmen Numerale.  
Hosts, Ausoniâ ut Rapina par Ma;  
Zonae Berga tuae auferatur, instant;  
Cunctas Dux ad istud adhibetque arts:  
Queis, & te & tua possit occupare;  
Frustra hos vertere Berga terga cogit.   
In the month of May 1589. three troops of horsemen which were of Count Maurices and of the Marshal Villers now deceased, and of Chymscies Regiments issuing out for adventure, fell amongst the Garrisons of Gertrudenberg, and others their companies, which put them to flight so far as the town of Osse in Brabant: 
Historia Belgica lib. 15.  There were taken (amongst others of the Netherlanders) Captain Riscier, and the Lieutenant of Skymsky with many others.  
When now Parma's host by the siege of Hewsden, the overthrow of Hyemert, the yielding up of Heyl and other Fortresses unto them, they thought themselves now strong and safe enough in that part of Brabant: Their Leaders determined in the month of September to pass over the River Moza, with a purpose to invade the country of Tile in Gelderland, from whence they would pass either to Buren in Gelderland, or to Vtrecht. But the Spaniards by occasion of a sedition or mutiny risen between them and the Italians (which thing the Duke of Pastrana & the Duke of Ascoly were had in belief to maintain against the Duke of Parma) they refused to pass over the River, crying aloud, Vive il Re, fuora il mal governo: that is, God save the King, let us cast off evil government. 
A sedition amongst the chiefest of the Spaniards.  And when Count Maunsfeld went about to take them, they shot at him with their dags and great pieces, put him to flight, and drove him into the Garrison of the City of Grave. And when Count Maurice having now gathered some forces about him, endeavoured to stop their passage every where again, planting his ordinance and Munitions round about Heyl to besiege it: so it happened that Parma was constrained (winter coming on) to dismiss his host, and furnishing with convenient forces of their Garrisons the Castles of Heymert and Heyl and other his defences, he departed to the mouth of the River Deynsa, adjoining near unto the town of Sherteghanbusch.  
The Duke of Parma in this year 1589. was overtaken by a grievous disease or sickness, many were the causes supposed to be thereof; namely and first that on the tenth day of November 1588. as he was riding from Berghen to Machlin, he fell off from a bridge into the water. Unto which chance happened many other evils, 
Historia Belgica lib. 15.  such as were the sorrow which he conceived by the evil success of the Spanish Navy in the invasion of England a little before in that last year 1588. 
The Prince of Parma falleth into many griefs.  And the siege of Berghen, from whence he was enforced to depart without any thing done by him. Also that by the Duke of Pastrana and the Prince of Ascoly many things were spoken and done to his reproach and disdain. And again, because he understood that certain letters of Exchange (as they call them) sent by him into Spain (by the instigation of some evil willers which perchance he there had) were neither received, nor yet the money for them paid: when those letters mentioned that the money amounted unto 100000. Ducats: wherefore he laboureth greatly by some means to satisfy the Italian Merchants, and about the same time deceased his Uncle by his father's side called the Great Cardinal Farnesius, by whom he had great help and furtherance. 
The Prince of Parma his death.  To be short therefore, he falling sick in the month of May 1589. all unhealthy and heavy in plight, then departed to Spada a Fountain in the land of Luke, there to use the benefit of a Bath, taking his lodging at Montfort, or in the town adjoining: where he drank the waters of Spada or Spau for his health sake, and lived after that until the 12. day of November 1592. and then died in the city of Arras in Artoys one of the seventeen Provinces of the Netherlands.   
Thus far translated out of Emanuel Meteranus, his Belgic History.   

A BRIEF DISCOURSE OF THE MEMORABLE VOYage to Portugal, Anno 1589. by Sir john Norice and Sir Francis Drake Knights, with the English forces.  
INprimis, to the glory of God and honour of her Majesty be it specially remembered, that the two Generals aforesaid made certain orders in number 14. for the Soldiers and Mariners going to sea: and other 54. orders for the Captains, Soldiers and Sailors, during the voyage, to be by them and every of them duly and dutifully observed and performed.  
Their Navy consisting of Ships great and small, and of men, set forward from Plymouth the 17. of April Anno 1589. to the sea.  
The Admiral, The Ark: Sir john Norice, Sir Francis Drake two Generals.  
The Vice-admiral, The Golden Lion: Captain Thomas Fenner.  
The Rereadmirall, The Dreadnot: Captain William Fenner.  
The six principal Masters of the queens Ships: Thomas West, Robert Wignald, john Bennet, Robert Hart, Roger talent, Richard Burnet.  
The five Colonels of the five Regiments in the Navy and Army: Sir john Norice, Sir Francis Drake, Sir Roger Williams, Sir Edward Norice, and Captain George Fenner.  
The five Lieutenants Colonels of the five Squadrons: Captain Thomas Drake, Captain Sachuile, Captain Garton, Captain Goring, and Captain Winter.  
The five Captains of the Watch of the five Squadrons and their Corporals: Captain Web of the Revenge, Captain Champernoune of the Non per illa, Captain Gifford of the Dreadnought, Captain Norwood of the Foresight, Captain George Drake of the Swiftsure.  
Corporals: Captain Young, Captain Seigar, Captain Thomas Baker, Captain wild, Captain Cripse.  
The seven Commissioners: john Sachuile, William Winter, Alexander Musgrave, William Fenner, Thomas Drake, james Lancaster, john Goring.  
The Secretary of the Navy, Master Anthony Ashly.  
The Surveyor general of the victuals, Master Marmeduke Daryell.  
The Treasurer of the Navy,  
The Viztreasurer, Master Stalling.  
The Surveyor of the Navy, Captain Ro. Flicke.  
The Lieutenant of the ordinance of the Navy, Captain james Lancaster.  
Captain general of the Watch, Captain Bowyer.  
The Master of the Discoveries and Lieutenant Colonel of the Pinnasses, Captain Foxcroft.  
The Transport Master, Captain Alexander Musgrave aforesaid.  
The Clerk of the store, Master Aldridge.  
The five Corporals of the five Squadrons: Captain Young of the squadron of the Revenge Captain Seigar of the Non perilla, Captain Thomas Baker of the Dreadnought, Captain Wild of the Swiftsure, Captain Peter Cripse of the Foresight.  

A Journal of the Portugal Voyage Anno 1589.  
WEdnesday the 17. of April 1589. they embarked at Plymouth.  
Tuesday the 23. of April they fell with the Coast of Galizia.  
Wednesday the 24. of April they landed at a little Hermitage East side of the Corunna or Groin, supposed 12000. strong. From thence to Andyas, where they had a small skirmish with no loss to the English.  
The 25. of April being Thursday, our men wasted and burned in the country what they could with fire and sword.  
Saturday the 27. of April they assaulted the base Town of the Corunna and won it, with small loss to them: and the Enemy retired into the high Town, not above seven Ensigns strong as was thought.  
Sunday the 28. of April they so battered a great Galeaz (wherein Ricaldo served the last year 1588. as Vice-admiral of that Navy sent into England) that the Spaniards now not able to keep her, discharged her ordinance, fired her, and ran her on ground, with no hurt to us at all.  
The same day they went from Andyas to the base Town of the Corunna, where they found much Beef, Salt, Meal, Wheat, Oil, Fish and Wines as was thought to victual 40000. men a quarter of a year: besides Gables, Hemp, Rosen, Wax, Pitch, Tallow, and other things for shipping store: which was levied for a new force to have come into England this Summer. But in fourteen days there was hardly one bit of bread, wine or other victuals to be had in any quarter of the Town, except by some private officer or Captain.  
The same day the Enemy lying not far off thence, presented a Bravado before the Town gates: against whom when our men sallied forth, without more ado or any encounter they fled, and twelve of them were slain.  
Monday the 29. of April our men summoned the high Town, who refused all parley. There all the Spaniards that our men could gather (after they had taken them) they slew, to the great amazing of the Enemy beholding the same.  
That night the Spaniards desired parley, and not long after fired certain houses near their upper town walls.  
Wednesday the first of May 1589. our English laid their battery unto la Corunna the great, where through the weakness of the Rampire between our great ordinance and the Enemy (which fell down with oft shaking) they were driven from their pieces by the enemy's Musket shot from the town wall. There was slain Captain Spencer, and some few others, and Captain Goodwin shot through the face. The same day (in parley time) a Spaniard shot at an Englishman, and was hanged therefore by the Enemy: In this parley the Enemy desired to have fair wars with us.  
Saturday the fourth of May they made a breach in the West side of the Corunna, four of our men making an assault retired again without hurt. The same day Captain Young being dangerously shot died soon after.  
Sunday the fifth of May they assaulted the breach, filled up by the Enemy, to the hurt of some of our armed men. Two Captains shot thorough, and Captain Breyton hurt, Captain Sydenham slain, and one Cuckfoot an Ensign to Sir Francis Drake.  
Monday the sixth of May john Kempston Marshal of the ordinance was slain with a shot from the high Tower.  
Tuesday the 7. of May we marched forth nine Regiments upon the Enemy, which had encamped themselves at a town called Faro, four English miles from the Corunna, our men charged on them being eight thousand, and took their bridge there. On either side the bridge our men entered the water, drove them away, killed some Colonels, wan their Town, victuals and provisions, fired the rest of their Villages near, drove them to retreat, pursued them in chase three miles or more, and slew of them in all three hundred at least: of us Captain Cooper was slain, and not above three more. There were only hurt of our chief Commanders Sir Edward Norice, and Captain Hender, who recovered both thereof, and Captain Fulford who died thereof. Of those Spaniards at Faro was chief Don ivan Pacheco Marques de Guasto, and Governor of all Galizia, who fled on horseback with the foremost.  
Wednesday the 8. of May our Sailors went on shore, ranged the country, burned and spoiled above five miles, returning with some victual and pillage, without any resistance.  
The same night the Non per illa was fired about five of the clock by negligence in the harbour of Corunna, and about twelve of the clock that night the Merchant Royal was fired, six men blown up with powder, and some few hurt beside, without more harm, praised be God.  
Thursday the 9 of May we raised our siege from the Corunna, fired some of their ships in the harbour, burnt and razed the base town and Mills up to the high town, and so embarked away thence that night.  
Friday the 10. of May we set sail from the Corunna, and that day about noon met with us again six sail of our Fleet, which at our setting forth parted from us about the Coast of France.  
Tuesday the 14. of May we doubled Cape finister, the wind then at the East.  
Saturday the 22. of june we departed from Vigo in Galizia to go towards Peniche. From Peniche the Army came to Lisbon, where they stayed some two or three days expecting the coming of the Fleet to Lisbon: of which preparation and stay there Sir Anthony Wingfield writeth thus: It may be demanded (saith Sir Anthony Wingfield, writing upon this voyage) why a matter of so great moment should be so slenderly regarded, as that the General should march with such an Army against such an Enemy, before he knew either the fullness of his own strength, or certain means how he should abide the place when he should come to it. Wherein (saith he) I pray you remember the decrees made in the Council at Peniche, and confirmed by public protestation the first day of our March. That our Navy should meet us in the River of Lisbon, in the which was the store of all our provision, & so the mean of our tarriance in that place: which came not though we continued till we had no munition left to entertain a very small fight. We are also to consider that the King of Portugal (whether carried away with imagination by the advertisements he received from the Portugals, or willing by any promise to bring such an Army into his country, thereby to put his fortune once more in trial) assured the General that upon his first landing there would be a revolt of his subjects: whereof there was some hope given at our first entry to Peniche, by the manner of the yielding of the Town and Fort: which made the General think it most convenient speedily to march to the principal place, thereby to give courage to the rest of the Country. The Friars also and the poor people that came unto him promised that within two days the Gentlemen and others of the country would come plentifully in: within which two days came many more Priests & some very few Gentlemen on horseback: but not till we came to Torres Vedras, where they that noted the course of things passed, might somewhat discover the weakness of that people. There they took two days more, and at the end thereof referred him till our coming to Lisbon, with assurance that so soon as our Army should be seen there, all the inhabitants would be for the King and fall upon the Spaniards.  
After two night's tarriance at Lisbon, the King promised a supply of three thousand foot and some horse: but all his appointments being expired even to the last of a night, all his horse could not make a Cornet of 40. nor his foot furnish two Ensigns fully, although they carried three or four Colours: and these were altogether such as thought to enrich themselves by the ruin of their neighbours: for they committed more disorders in every place where we came by spoil, than any of our own.  
So while we stayed at Lisbon we both failed of the aid which the King Don Anthony promised us, and we expected, and also because our English Fleet came not unto us thither to Lisbon, we rose up thence and went for Cascayes: where meeting with our Fleet we returned altogether into England, where some of us arrived at Plymouth, others at Portsmouth, and others at London in the beginning of the month of july Anno 1589. aforesaid.   
Here endeth the journal of the Portugal Voyage.   

A journal of the Honourable service by the renowned Knight S. john Norie, General of the English and French forces, performed against the French and Spanish Leaguers in France. 1591.  
THis morning being Sunday, my Lord General with Sir Henry Norice, 
April. 11.  Captain Anthony Shirley, Master William Devoreux, etc. took Post-horses at London to ride to Southampton: where (in taking order for shipping & for divers considerations) his Lordship stayed until Sunday the 25. day.  
Monday the 26. dict. we embarked and fell down with the shipping to Portesmouth: where his Lordship stayed that night at Captain Richard wingfield's house.  
Tuesday morning the 27. dict. we set sail being of us in all 23. ships and other small vessels, and having a scant shifting wind at north and north east, we cast an anchor before Saint Helenes' point in the Wight.  
Wednesday morning about ten of the clock (being until then becalmed we happened of a small gale of wind blowing N. N. west, wherewith we recovered the Haigue. 
28.   
Thursday about ten of the clock at night, 
29.  we anchored before the Castle of Gernsey: and my Lord General and some other Gentlemen with him lay at the Castle that night.  
Friday morning we set sail from thence, 
30.  and about five of the clock in the evening we put into the road of jarsey.  
Monday my Lord General expecting the Companies out of the Low Countries, 
1591.  were this day arrived with Captain Anthony Wingfield Sergeant Mayor of the Camp: 
May. 3.  his Lordship went aboard, and lay at anchor in the road all that night.  
Tuesday in the morning we loosed from thence, and having a fine wind at North and by West, about eight at night we anchored in the road of Pimpowle arriving in the road called Lemoys de Guelle near Pimpoule.  
Wednesday the 5. of May we discovered divers shippings and boats that came from Brehake, and made towards S. mallows: whereof we took one laden with salt and fish. It is to be remembered that those of Brehake and of the Castle taking knowledge of our approach abandoned the Castle, and yielded themselves to the king's authority.  
Not long after the enemy fled from the Castle of Lantegard, which was fortified for the king by the Prince Dumbeez now Duke Mountpenser at this day.  
My Lord dispatched letters into England from the Abbey of Beauport.  
Thursday the 6. of May was spent in unshipping the horses, munition and soldiers.  
This day also the Prince Dombeez sent 20. Moils laden with bread to the Abbey for provision of the soldiers.  
Wednesday the army marched towards Guyngamp, and lodged in a small village in the way (near the Abbey) and this night the Guyngampiers hearing of our approaches, 
12.  set fire on their suburbs, which we might plainly discern.  
This night likewise my Lord General road before to the Town to take view, and to save as much as might be of the suburbs for the lodging of the troops.  

13.  Thursday, our troops being with the French accompanied, were lodged in such houses and other places of the suburbs as were left unburned: the same day the enemy sallied out of the town in pursuing us, Captain Wolf an englishman's colours were taken, which we recovered again at the winning of the town and delivered to him.  
friday, 
May. 14.  those within the town (not believing that we had any Cannon with us) sent out divers spies to discover, which we took: This day our Artillery (being a Cannon and two culverins) came to us.  
Saturday, it pleased my Lord General to put them within the Town out of doubt; 
15.  for the Artillery being planted, our first shot was so exceeding well made, as that it dismounted a piece which the enemy played withal from a steeple: the Prince Dombeez being present.  
Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday were spent in drawing platforms, and in planting the Ordinances.  
Wednesday the Canons were ready to play being planted in a Cloister in the French quarter on the north side of the town. 
19   
Thursday morning we having expected certain Artillery of the Princes to have come from Breast, (which came not to us) we began the battery with our own 4. pieces: continuing the same all that day, and the next until three of the clock in the afternoon to the number of 400. shot: at which time, notwithstanding that the breach was very unassaultable and small (the wall being passing strong) yet the French humour urged my Lord General very hotly to an assault. Which upon so small a possibility of doing any good, his Lordship was hardly drawn unto: only (in regard of the honour of our nation) he made choice of certain out of divers companies, whereof Captain jackson, Captain Heron, and Captain Hayes, to have the leading: and afterwards (the dice being cast) the chance fell to Captain jackson and Captain Heron to have the point of the assault, and to be seconded by Captain Hayes, as occasion should serve: who being accompanied with Captain Catesby and many other English gentlemen (although the breach was very unassaultable as before, and exceeding troublesome by reason of the height thereof, and the light falling of the moulder of the wall, and the great number of the featherbeds, 
May.  and such like (which the Cannon had beaten down) yet a great part of our men perforce obtained the very top of the breach, where they endured a hot and long assault: Captain Heron receiving a push with a pike under his gorget was there slain, and about some ten or twelve of the common soldiers, and besides thirty hurt with stones, the residue not being able to maintain the assault any longer (for the causes before remembered) were driven to retire. The Baron Monluc (having in this service the conduct of certain French) showed himself very courageous, and gained at that time unto himself great reputation: but the residue (for the most part) came forwards very coldly. It was thought good that Captain Hayes and his company should not at this time come forwards, but be reserved until the next day, at what time the finishing of a Mine (then in hand) was appointed: during this assault Captain Dennis an English man (offering a Scalado on the other side of the town) was shot with a Musket in the belly, whereof he died shortly after.  

23.  Sunday next following (being Whitsonday) beginning again to play (after a three or four tire) the enemy summoned a Parley: which in fine grew to a capitulation in this sort viz. That the next day the horsemen in the town should depart with their horses and harquebuses (leaving the Cornet behind the footmen with their swords) and the Townsmen to Fine 40000. crowns to the Prince.  

24.  Monday, they came forth accordingly, to the number of 200. horse and 260. foot: and the town possessed monsieur de Cargamart, being appointed Governor of the same. There was found in the town (being yielded up) four Ensigns, one Cornet, one Cannon perier, one demi Culvering, six Sacres, and of Minions 2000 weight.  
The town was found to be very strong, defensible and sufficient able to have kept the same for a far longer time, if they within had been honest men: 
May.  my Lord General doubted not but to have drawn them of the town to far stricter conditions than is said, had not the Prince Dombeez seemed to be very glad of this, and that his hap sorted to so good success, and therefore would not further stand upon it.  
Wednesday than next following my Lord General dispatched letters to certain the Lords of her majesties most Honourable privy Counsel, 
26  to my Lord Norice his father and to my Lady his mother, and other his friends in England.  
Thursday the 27. dicto a Muster was taken of the Army.  
Tuesday the first of june anno dicto, upon the taking of Guyngamp, 
june. 1.  it was purposed that we should have gone for Morlayx, but (by certain after Counsels) that intent was altered: for that it was said that the Duke Mercoeur was removed from Pontiny, where he joined with 4000 Spaniards under the leading of Don john de Laguna, who was marching towards Morlayx by the way of Corlay.  
Monday next following the Duke Mercoeur, arrived at Corlay (a Castle pretending to hold for the King) but in the possession of Madam de Guyneny, whose brother monsieur de Bodolphin is the Duke's Lieutenant: so the party being made before hand, the Castle was rendered without one shot of the Cannon.  
Tuesday we dislodged towards the enemy and lay at Chateau Lodune. To this place the Duke sent a Trumpeter to the Prince with letters; whereunto he answered, ut patet per copias: here likewise the Prince sent an other Sartell to the Duke, wherewith he seemed so moved, that he vowed to offer battle to the Prince.  
Wednesday the Duke dislodged and encamped at Queremen a village distant a league and a half from Chateau Lodune, situate on the foot of a hill: which (by deep ditches, enclosures and hedges) confronted a little heath of two miles' compass. To which heath (upon discovery of the approach of the enemy, by my Lord General (who then with the Prince was ridden to take view of a place convenient) our battle was drawn.  
Thursday the enemy within one quarter of a league of the heath showeth his whole Army in order of battle upon the top of a hill: 
10.  whereupon my Lord General disposed the troops into three battailions, whereof the infantry English made two, and the Lance Knights the third. This day was spent in some sleight skermishes.  
Friday the enemy drew his Army to the foot of the hill, 
11.  and placed his Artillery upon: he sight of the heath in a place of such advantage, as it commanded in the nature of a Cavalier the whole heath: where he bordered all the hedge with shot. Now my Lord General sent out 200. footmen to see the countenance of the enemy, who drove them to their strengths, put them to their hedges and Baricadoes, and slew divers of them upon the retreat: to these the Duke put forth 500 French and 300. Spaniards to repossess the place, whom he followed with the Army. Which being perceived by the Prince removing in the heath with monsieur de la Hunnaday commanding the avantgard, and having his regiment of horse in battle: (my L. General, with monsieur de Pogny, de Pruneanx, Momartin, Bastinay) order was given to put forward 300. foot commanded by Captain Anthony Wingfield, Captain Moreton, & the English horse led by Captain Anthony Shirley: this direction was valiantly prosecuted by ours, but specially by the English: so as the enemies horse and foot which were in the plain were enforced to flee, many slain, and the rest driven to save themselves within their Artillery: being taken in this charge monsieur de Guybreun Colonel of the foot of the Army, and slain Don Rodrigo chief Marshal of the Spaniards, one Spanish Captain, also the number of 200. French, and 60. Spaniards.  
This resolute charge so amated the enemy, 
june.  as that they suffered within 200. paces of their Cannon to disarm the dead, and to retire at their ease.  
In this charge Captain Anthony Shirley gave such an example to the French horse as was admired, and the Companies on foot performed their parts with no less valour: namely the Sergeant Maior and Lieutenant Long, who received in his body five Harquebuz shot: the rest of the day was spent in skirmishes.  
Saturday the enemy made a great show to come forth, 
12.  and sent out some number of shot: against whom Captain Anthony Shirley with fifteen horse, and some few foot made them quickly take their heels, pursuing them to their Baricadoes, where his horse was shot in the head, and some small hurt done.  
Sunday, little was performed that day. 
13.   
Monday being S. john's day (as they write after the Roman Calendar) with them it was thought somewhat would have been done in the honour of the day, but in deed nothing at all: for the Duke used it rather as a colour whereby to run away, having that night withdrawn his Cannon, and retired himself to Queremen.  
Wednesday the 16. of june, monsieur de la Noë with the troop of the Count Mongomery consisting of 100 Cuirasses, and the Count de Comburg came unto Chateau Laudra: whose arrival promised some good success to the king's affairs.  
Thursday being Midsummer day the Nativity of S. john Baptist, we dislodged to Quintine. 
24   
This night the enemy being lodged at Corlay within 3 small leagues of us, an enterprise was made upon some of their light horse that lay wide of their Camp: which for that it was not attempted by footmen (as my Lord General earnestly persuaded them unto) it took no great effect: saving that there were killed some 16. of a Corpse du Guard, and their horse taken. The rest might easily have been had as good cheap, if the horsemen would have lighted and forced their Baricadoes: the French thought they had done wondrous well, 
june.  and so that service ended.  
monsieur Tremblay (who had the command of the French Light horse) was now slightly shot in the thigh: other hurt we received none.  
Friday the 25. day the Enemy attempted a revenge, and came forth with some horse and foot, and gave us an alarm: which was performed so favourably, as they neither hurt man nor beast.  
Tuesday being S. Peter's day, my Lord General dispatcheth certain letters by Peter Browne to certain the Lords of her majesties most Honourable privy Council, 
29.  to my Lord Norice his father, and to other his friends in England.  

julie. 2.  Friday the second of July Anno 1591. the army dislodged to Pleu or Plessue.  
Tuesday the sixth day we marched towards Lamball, and lay in a small Village in the way.  
Wednesday about ten of the clock in the morning the town of Lamball was entered at the West south-west, and by Captain Symmes and Captain Richard wingfield's Ensign, who led two hundred shot: The Southside of the town was entered by Captain Hall and Captain Guest with other two hundred shot. Both these were seconded by Captain Dolphin with one hundred Pikes, whom Captain Maine was appointed to have followed, if occasion had so served. But the aforesaid Captains Symmes and Hall with their troops came so resolutely upon the Baricadoes of the Town, that the enemy was forced to abandon the same, and to make a hasty retreat into the Castle. From whence Captain Baynton and Barbar Lieutenant to Captain Symmes were both shot, and died that day: Captain Richard wingfield's Ensign bearer having received from the walls of the Castle a shot through both his thighs at that time.  
Thursday there were two of our Cannons mounted on the south-west side of the Castle; and that day the Enemy made some proffer of a sally upon Captain halls quarter.  
Friday, 
july. 9  a Spur which covered the Gate of the Castle was made assaultable: by two of the clock in the afternoon two Frenchmen were sent to discover the breach; and it was appointed that other French should have entered the same, who should have been seconded by the Lieutenants one Guest and Braconbury. But the first of the French performing but badly, and the second flatly denying, Monsieur de More Martin was enforced to advance himself somewhat further than his place required: whereby he received a arqebus shot in the thigh. Being judged by my Lord General and Monsieur de la Noë, that the Spur (when it should have been taken) was not assaultable, it was thought good that certain shot should be sent out in the smoke of the Cannon, to lodge themselves directly under a Bulwark upon the right hand of the gate, whereby the breach might in some sort be flanked: Whiles Monsieur de la Noë stood behind a Baricado, to behold how those that were sent performed this service, he was shot in the head with a Musket, whereof he died soon after.  
At the time of this service one Monsieur de Boa Captain of a Company of Light horse, was slain with a small shot.  
My Lord (well weighing the slow success of this enterprise) thought it best to defer the service upon the Spur, until the darkness of the night following: His Lordship's purpose was to assault with some thirty shot and Pikes well armed (if the height of the breach would have been taken) whereof little doubt was made.  
The leading of these men was committed to Lieutenant Guest: it was further resolved, that Captain Hender with other thirty shot and Pikes should lodge himself under the great Baricado on the right hand of the Gate; and to assay by all means he could to work himself further under the very foundation thereof.  

july.  In the darkness of the night my Lord General caused two with firelocke pieces and two Pikes to discover the breach, who made their way without any great difficulty: Lieutenant Guest followed with two Pikes only, and six musketeers, who winding to the height of the breach (besides many sore blows with stones) received two shot upon his armour, whereof one was a very dangerous wound, and so retired from the place which was so flankered, as it could not well be kept.  
Sunday the 11. day of july 1591. Master Danyel desirous to see out of the height of a Tower, received a shot in the shoulder with a Harquebuz: And in the same place one Master Pawlet was shot in the head, whereof he died presently.  
Upon an assured intelligence that Duke Mercoeur with his whose force was come to Pleny Ingot with a resolution to raise our siege; my Lord General at the instance of the Prince (most of our French having at that time forsaken us) thought good to dislodge and to meet the Enemy. We dislodged, and that night the Army came to Queymer, where we continued until the last of july present.  

26  Monday fortnight following my Lord General sent letters to the Lords of the Council by Master Browning.  
Tuesday the 27. Monsieur de la Verdune came to the Prince with 220. horse, and 700. foot: The Marquis de Villeures did accompany him.  

30  Friday the Army dislodged and lay that night at Brehake.  

August.  Sunday the first of August, the Prince Dombeez, my Lord General, 
1  Monsieur de la Verdune, and the principal Commanders amongst the French being followed with twelve hundred shot, whereof four hundred were English (twenty being taken out of every Company) and all the cavalry did march from the army at Brehake towards the Enemy encamped by Ingon. 
August.  The intention was to have cut off three Cornets of the Enemy's horse which lay at a little Village about a mile and a half off from the strength of the Army. But (upon an advertisement taken) it was found that they dislodged themselves that morning, and had drawn themselves to another Village, not five hundred paces from their Army: We coming to the first place and missing the Enemy, sought them in the second, from whence likewise (upon their alarm given by their Sentinels) they had withdrawn themselves to the army. Yet in this second place some small resistance was made by French shot: which being soon overthrown, and some 25. of the Enemy's horse taken (which in a hasty fear they left behind) Monsieur Tremblay seeing some three or four score of the enemy's horse begin to make a head and proffer to pass a River, determined to charge the first that would attempt the same. In which charge, being least of all the rest (four only excepted) that charge with him, his horse stumbling and so falling with him, he was taken prisoner, after a sleight hurt received in his face with the shot of a Pistol.  
Tuesday our Army dislodged to Kerso.  
Thursday to Monconter. 
3.   
Saturday from thence to S. Brieux. 
5.  
7.   
Sunday my Lord General dispatched letters into England by Peter Browne the Post. 
8.   
Saturday we removed to Ville Rabel. 
21.   
To this place place came Master Barker with my Lords horses out of the Low Countries.  
At this place considerations were drawn by the Prince and his Council, which implied a necessity for the marching of the Army in the high parts of Brittany, whereunto my Lord General in writing answered his opinion.  
Tuesday the 24. of August dicto, 
24.  the Army came to Collinee.  

The 26. of August.  Thursday the Army dislodged, and because the Prince was certainly informed that monsieur de Mercover came to Been, it was certainly resolved that the Army should that day march to S. Meyn: but through the unredines of all things appertaining to the Cannon, and distance of place, that course was altered, and for that night we lodged at Medrimak a reasonable fair village in the mid way between Collinee and S. Meyn. Here the Prince Dombeez understood that monsieur de Mercoeur had in all secrecy dislodged that night before from Divant and was come to Pleumalan, with a resolution to prevent us of our lodging at S. Meyn: Pleumalan is two leagues from Divant, and four from S. Meyn; from Medrimak to S. Meyn but three leagues. Whereupon it was concluded, that monsieur de la Verdune accompanied with 80. cuirasses, 300. Harquebuz, a Chevall, and 400. English should dislodge about midnight: and assay (if by a speedy march towards S. Meyn they could) before the enemy should invest the town with those forces.  

27.  Friday we dislodged very timely, and (in our march) were certified that S. Meyn was invested with those forces, sent the night before with monsieur de la Verdune: and that it was not heard that the enemy had any such intention as before.  

31.  Tuesday the thirty one, and last of August we dislodged to Yfendit. Here monsieur de la Verdune left the Prince.  

The second of September.  Thursday the second of September anno dict. the Army removed to Breal.  

3.  Friday the third, from thence to Moyal.  
Saturday from Moyal to Chasteavieron.  
Sunday my Lord General was invited by the inhabitants of Rheyas, to visit their City.  
Thursday we dislodged to Chasteau burg.  

11.  Saturday from thence to S. Hulbin.  
At this place lay the Army when the Castle of Chastileon was taken in by assault.  
Friday my Lord General sent letters into England by Captain Maxie. 
24.   
Tuesday we removed to Feigns. 
28.   
Thursday the seventh of October anno dict. we dislodged to Bavongie Simples. 
The seventh of October.   
friday from thence to S. Oven. 
15.   
Sunday from S. Oven to ferry.  
Monday we removed to Bavongie.  
Monday from Bavongie to S. Hilary.  
Monday the eight of November dict. we dislodged to Tilyel.  
Thursday the eleventh day we dislodged from Tilyel to Fugeralles.  
Wednesday to the Castle of Dorec.  
This fort seemed of such strength unto the Prince Dombeez, and some of his Counsel (as monsieur la Verdune) that they thought it not meet to be undertaken without special means, such as we wanted: having neither munition nor any other thing fit for service, saving two or three small iron pieces for battery. Our men (such as were reserved from the extremity of the then late sickness amongst us) being very weak and feeble, having wanted of long time before both clothes and money: yet it pleased God that by the most politic and circumspect direction of my Lord General, the enemy was drawn to abandon the same this present night, to the great freeing of those parts there about: and Captain Latham was put in as Governor of the same.  
The same Sunday at night my Lord General sent monsieur Carmarak with letters to the Lords of the Counsel.  
Friday the Army dislodged to Pyboray.  
Monday from thence to Ernye.  
Thursday the second of December anno dict. the Army dislodged from Erny to Gorrone. 
The second of December.   
From this place my Lord sent letters into England by Captain Richard Wingfield, Captain Moreton, and Captain Dennis, who had licence to repair thither.  

19  Sunday our Army dislodged to Ambrizer, where my Lord General kept his Christmas.  

28.  Tuesday we dislodged from thence to S. George's.  

29.  Wednesday, and so from S. George's to S. Germyns.  

january.  Saturday the eight day of januarie anno dicto the Army removed to S. john sur le main. 
8.   
Sunday from thence to Baconiere.  

9  Monday from Baconiere to Bourne en le Forest.  

10.  
11.  Thursday the Lord General road to Vi●terie, where the Princes of Condy and Dombeez (by commandment from the king) met together for the determining of some present service against the league, which was concluded: and in fine, Sir Henry Norice (at the request of the Prince Dombeez) was sent over with letters to the Lords of the Council, to my Lord his father, and my Lady his mother, and others his friends in England: and withal to know her majesties resolution, whether for the reenforcing of the troops in Brittany, or for the disposing of them elsewhere.  

28.  Monday Sir Henry Norice departed from Laual, to embark himself at Cane.  

February. 1.  Monday the first of February anno dicto, at night M. Carmerek returned with letters to my Lord General: wherein his Lordship had licence to come over.  

18  Thursday the Lord General departed from Goron (where the Camp at that time lay) for England: leaving Captain Anthony Wingfield Sergeant Mayor sufficiently authorized till his return.  
Sunday the Lord General came to Cane, where for want of sufficient tide he was driven to stay until the last of this month. 
21.   

March. 1.  Monday the first day of March anno dict. his Lordship finding a Bark of M. Champerneyes, he embarked himself in the same, whom Colonel Shirley, and Captain Lo with others also accompanying, they had a very good gale blowing full south-west, which continued until three of the clock the next morning: after which time we were very much becalmed, until ten of the clock. When having a reasonable fair wind at west south-west, we recovered the Isles of Wight: where we had very much foul weather. So that his Lordship's horses being in a small Fleebote, some doubt was here of the safety of them: which afterwards (God be thanked) obtained safely the harbour: we being within the point, there anchored, and the next morning his Lordship landed at Portesmouth.  
Here endeth the journal of the service in France against the Leaguers. Anno. 1591.   

THE MEMORABLE SERVICE OF THE NOBLE General Sir john Norice Knight, performed Anno Dom. 1594. at Breast in Britain.  
THe first of September our worthy General Sir john Norice, landing with new forces out of England at Penpole, received letters presently from Marshal D'Aumond and Sir Thomas Baskeruil, who commanded in his absence the English troops, being then before the Castle of Morlayx, in what terms they stood expecting every day to be fought withal by the enemy Duke Mercoeur, who was advanced for the same purpose within three leagues of them, and did but only attend the coming of Monsieur Boisdolphin, with some French horse to join with them: but this their temporize in the end cost them the Castle, for immediately the very next day after the General's landing with great expedition, to wit, the second of September he put himself upon the way to Morlayx, and upon the fifth of the same month arrived there, being fourteen leagues distant.  
His coming was generally joyed at by all the Britons, but especially by the inhabitants of Morlayx, whose good or ill estate depended on his coming: for both the Castle (a cruel neighbour) held against them, and the Duke Mercoeur was at hand to rescue the defendants, who in assurance of relief from him acquitted themselves manfully, namely the Governor himself Monsieur Rochempoul, the Count Magnion, and Monsieur Rostin, with divers other gallants. But the General so amated the Enemy, that the Duke Mercoeur not only stayed from marching nearer unto us, but the tenth of the same retired with all his forces both French & Spanish, assuring himself that he could expect of Sir john Norice nothing but blows. They of the Castle acquainted therewith, within two days after the Duke's retreat yielded up the Castle. So that only his presence without the hazard of any of her majesties subjects, both enforced the Duke to retire, and the Castle to yield.  
This Castle thus rendered, we stayed there ten days, in respect that the Marshal wanted money for the satisfying of his people: whereof at the last he was furnished by those of the town of Morlayx. Then Mounsieur de Lyscot, a wonderful brave man, and the Baron of Molac were sent before with some Harquebuziers, to the end they might block up the Fort of Croyzon by Breast, and preserve the quarters about, who were further assisted with four hundred men out of our ships by Sir Martin Fourbysher who commanded the English shippings. And presently the army dislodged to a place called juez, thence to a Village called La Fou, next to Chastrau-lin, the next day to Lacornan a village three leagues from Quinper-Corentin which was held by the Enemy.  
The same night the Marshal with four hundred French, and Sir john Norice with as many English marched to Quinper-Corantin, and on a sudden surprised the suburbs, and possessed them with small resistance. The town was willing to yield, but that the Garrison would not suffer them. But Sir john Norice, whose mind was still to do some exploit against the Spaniards at the Fort of Coryzon, leaving this town invested by the Marshal and three of our English Regiments, commanded by his brother Sir Henry Norice our Lieutenant General, 
October.  himself only with his own Regiment, and his own company of horse, marching towards the Fort, and lodged that night at Croyzon. And the next day sat down before the Fort.  
Three days were spent in unshipping & bringing up the Artillery, 
2.3.4.  which were fourteen pieces (whereof the Marshal furnished but two culverins) and in making of approaches, which was greatly hindered by the want of Gabions, pioneers, and other provisions for the making of platforms, which we hoped by promise to have had in a readiness sent us from the Governor of Breast: but our General could procure almost nothing from thence but with many difficulties by reason of the weather.  

5.  The fifth of this month we had news that the Marshal and Sir Henry Norice had Quimper yielded unto them.  
The sixth of this month the Enemy made a sally out upon our trenches, 
6.  but were very bravely beaten home again with the loss of seven or eight of their men: but yet this their loss was very unfortunately answered by the death of Captain Anthony Wingfield our Sergeant Mayor general, 
Sir Anthony Wingfield slain with a Cannon.  being shot with a Cannon out of the Fort, as he stood by the Gabions with his Rapier drawn, the which with the shot was beaten through his bowels. This man with great reputation had long time served her Majesty both in the Low Countries, Portugal, and France: and at his last going into Britain, so disposed of his estate as if he were never to return; and the same day, or the day before his death, took such order for his debts, as if he had a presage of his end.  

7.8.9.10.11.  The next day the Marshal D'Aumond and Sir Henry Norice with our English Regiments, came to us from Quimper, and were quartered at Croyzon & thereabouts. After whose coming four days were spent in mounting of the Artillery, planting of our ordinance, and making of platforms for them to play.  
On the 12. day the Enemy made a sally upon the French trenches: who having not the leisure to arm themselves, lost between thirty and forty men, and as many hurt: and from thence they advanced themselves towards our trenches, where we lost in their defence ten or twelve men: but we did put them again in possession of their trenches.  
Having now all things ready for the battery, I will as well as I can describe unto you the Fort.  
You shall understand that more than two parts of the Fort was defended by the water, the rest was made so exceeding strong, as either by art or charge could be done.  
On the South front thereof on each corner were two exceeding strong Bastions; that on the West side was seventeen paces in the front, that on the East side ten paces: the Curtain between both was 37. foot thick at the top; and within these they had made a very large entrenchment, and the Bastions were exceeding well flanked from the Rock by the water side, planting both on the flankers and bastion some great ordinance. We lay entrenched within three or four paces of their Counterscarp: the Frenchmen on the East side, and we on the West side, the battery lay in the midst between the trenches. These things thus providently ordered by the Marshal and our General; on the 23. our Artillery began to play, and continued some seven hundred Cannonodos, but did so little harm by reason of the strength of the place, as scarce any show of a breach appeared, only we did beat away their parrapete and some of their flankers: whereupon some hundred men commanded by Captain Lyster, were sent to view and see if they could hold the Counterscarp. Then many of our brave men and gallants thirsting after honour, desirous to do somewhat further, having possessed themselves of the Enemy's Counterscarp, which only they were commanded to attempt, undertook the breach, which they performed so well, as that notwithstanding the unsatiableness of the place, and the great resistance the enemy made. Yet the most part of them attained to the very top thereof, which they held for a while, but were afterwards repulsed. This enterprise was with wonderful great resolution and valour seconded by S. Thomas Baskeruil, who likewise got so far as the point of the breach.  

There were lost in this attempt many brave men, namely,  

Slain in the assault.  
Captain Barker.  
Captain Prudder.  
Captain jackson, Sergeant Mayor of Ostend, who had no charge there.  
Haynes. Ensign to sir Henry Norice.  
Corporal Essex.  
M. Throgmorton, and some 16. or 18. soldiers▪   

Hurt in the assault.  
Captain Audley.  
Captain Bartley.  
Captain Couch.  
Captain goodwin's Lieutenant.  
Captain William's Lieutenant.  
Captain Bucks Lieutenant, & other private men.   

Burned with Powder.  
Sir Thomas Knowles.  
Captain Ashendon.  
Captain Bishop.  
Lieutenant Larkeley.  
Captain Lopeley.  
Master Waineman, and divers others.   
You are to understand that this attempt was only made by the Englishmen on the bastion of the west side, for the Frenchmen never attempted any thing against their Bastion, alleging that it was not Assaultable.  
The Marshal and our General seeing the little effect that our Artillery wrought, 
24  devised to make a mine on one of the bulwarks, namely on the East bastion towards the French trenches in perfecting thereof some 17. or 18. days were spent.  
But on the 30. being an exceeding wet morning whereby our powder and match were not fit for service, the enemy again found thereby opportunity to fall out upon the French trenches, and killed so between twenty and thirty of them at the least, among whom was monsieur Lyscot, a very brave gentleman one of the Marshals of the Camp, who was abandoned by the French and their trenches wholly possessed by the enemy, but our English men did presently repossess them of their trenches, and killed some of the Spaniards. Our nation lost an exceeding great friend of this monsieur Lyscot, he exceedingly loved our General, as if he had been his own father, and generally favoured all English men, and gave us the reputation to be very brave soldiers.  
By the seventh of November our mine was reasonable well perfected, 
November. 7.  and a determination held again to begin the battery, with a resolution that so soon as the mine should be blown up which was made towards the bulwark by the French trenches, that the Frenchmen should assail that part, and the Englishmen their Bastion, and that others with scaling ladders should make attempts in every corner, so that the defendants should be on every part assailed. But the Marshal being that day sick, sent in the morning for our General, and showed him his letters from the Governor of Rennes, and from divers others, by which he was advertised that john Don joan de la Auquilar General of the Spaniards, was marching towards Croyzon with all his Spanish forces to rescue the fort, & was already advanced to Lacornan a village within five leagues of us, and therefore advised our General to dislodge to Croyzon, thinking it not fit to hazard any men, having so strong an enemy at hand ready to join battle with them. But Sir john Norice having his courage nothing daunted with the approach of the enemies, his heart serving him both to win the fort by assault, and to encounter his enemy in the field: showing what a dishonour and disreputation it were to abandon the siege, and also what little cause the enemy should have to advance himself farther if the fort were gotten, his coming being only to resue it. He so much importuned the Marshal, that he gave him wholly the ordering of that days service. Immediately our General gave order to the canoneers for the battery, and caused the Artillery to play. Every man was assigned his charge, some to the assault, other with scalados to attempt to enter, and by 12. of the clock he caused fire to be set to the mine: which albeit did not so much as was looked for, yet it made the access so easy unto the French, as that a man might have ridden upon horse back: and our men, namely Captain Latham, Captain Smith, and Captain john Norice, with divers other gallant gentlemen gave up on the other bulwark, and continued the assault without losing one pace of the height until half an hour past four, and in the end first entered the same, and seized up on three Ensigns that were there, and put every man they found in the fort (saving one alferezes) to the sword: some of the Spaniards leapt from the rock to the water, but our Mariners with their small boats met with them and slew them: some three or four others being taken escaped with their lives, no man was found, Au sang Froyd.  
Sir Thomas Baskeruil served this day with great valour and industry, to the admiration of all men. Our seamen and Mariners this day acquitted themselves wonderful bravely, and were exceeding forward in all attempts, as may well appear by that valiant Knight Sir Martin Fourbisher, who in the assault receiving a hurt, is thereof now dead.  
The chiefest of the French men, namely such gentlemen as serving on horseback, putting themselves that day on foot, did exceeding g●llantlie, namely. monsieur Roumege, un Maistre du Camp, a man of great courage, and who most entirely loved our General, was slain upon the rampart, and his Ensign by him: who if they had been well seconded, undoubtedly they had carried it first, and had got the reputation of the first entry. As for the rest I hold them nothing worthy of commendations in this action.  

Slain in the assault.  
Captain Edge once Captain of our General's Guard.  
Lieutenant Flood.  
Captain Smith's Lieutenant.  
Ensign to Captain Brett.  
Eight Gentlemen of our Generals own company.  
Many other Gentlemen, and between twenty or thirty private men.   

Hurt in the assault.  
Sir Thomas Baskeruil.  
Sir Martin Fourbisher, who is now dead.  
Captain john Norice.  
Captain Brett.  
Captain Smith.   
The victory being thus gotten by the great virtue and admirable industry of our General, the fort being appointed to be raised, 
1.  we dislodged the next day to Croyzon to join with the rest of our troops, to attend there what the enemy durst do, who within two days after, found reason to retire themselves five leagues further from us.  
Thus have I finished I assure you truly, although not largely: all that was most remarcable in this days service.  
It may be I give not namely to every man the honour he deserved, but therein I excuse myself with my shortness in writing, & also myself being herein an Actor, my eye was not at leisure to note every man's desert. There was found in the fort 29. barrels of powder, some match, and very few small shot: and of meat, biscuit, wine and beef reasonable good store. I must a little commend the defendants, for an enemy deserveth his just praise, especially the chief Commander. He never in all these attempts showed himself daunted, he made sundry sallies, but most upon the French, to his great advantage and reputation. He lost before this last days service 60. men, some at his sallies, some with our Cannon, and some at our first attempt upon the breach, also this very last day our Cannon playing incessantly upon the main curtain, between the two bastions slew fifty of his men. This last assault continued almost five hours without intermission, they never quailed until he was slain, which was a small time before the entry, and then the greater part being slain, the rest over tired and hurt, were forced by our Gallants to retire, and so there were slain of Spaniards in this fort almost 400. I note another sign of his great resolution, for if he found any willing only to speak of yielding, he would cause him to be bound to a stake or post, and exposed him to the breach, leaving his arms at liberty to fight for his defence. I hope no man will dislike if I commend the valour of the enemy which was conquered, for the greater is the honour of them that were the conquerors. This their vain resolution might well have served their turns, if they had not dealt with our General who was as resolute as they, and therein overmacht them. For the next day, Don joan de l'Aquilar sending a trumpet for the redeeming of prisoners, our General sent him answer that their ransoms were paid, and that he was now as ready and at leisure to fight with him. This victory achieved, he sent the three Spanish Ensigns into England, and presented them to her Majesty, who as a most sacred and gracious Prince, most highly esteemed, and lovingly accepted them. God of his infinite mercy send her daily so to triumph over her enemies, and that it will please him to protect our General for her greater services.  
FINIS.   
Here endeth the memorable service of S. john Norice knight, at Breast in Britain. 1594.   

THE MEMORABLE SERVICE OF THE NOBLE General Sir john Norice Knight, in Ireland (after his return from Breast) 1595. with his death there, and burial here in England 1597.  
THis noble Knight and renowned General of her majesties forces in Britain (immediately after the said service done by him at the Fort of Breast in that Province) arriving in England in the month of March Anno 1595. after he had stayed at London a month or thereabouts, 
March. 1595.  
General Norice departeth for Ireland.  was thence by her Majesty commanded over into Ireland: and with him to embark his forces appointed directly over thither under the conduct of his brother Sir Henry Norice Knight; there to have his Commission drawn, as General of her majesties forces in that kingdom.  
After his landing at Waterford (which was about the fifth or sixth of May Anno dict.) he dispatched letters to Sir William Russel Knight, 
May. 5.  Lord Deputy of Ireland, signifying his landing at Waterford aforesaid, and withal craving leave for the ease of his body, that he might stay in his government of Munster for some short time: which as it seemed was granted him, 
He landeth at Waterford.  in regard that he stayed there about three weeks, and then removed thence to Dublin, to the said Lord deputy there resident.  
Immediately after the same stay there, 
julie.  his Commission was drawn, his counsel used, and he required to accompany the said Lord Deputy into the field, 
Sir William Russel Lord Deputy.  together with his own Company of horse and foot. The place appointed for the Rendezvous of the Army was by Dundalk a town bordering on Ulster, from whence the said Lord deputy, Sir john Norice, and others of the Council with the Army, marched altogether unto Armah, where they found a ruined Church or Abbey. But afterwards by the advice of the Lord deputy and his Council, that place was thought fit for a Garrison, in regard that it bordered upon the entrance of Hugh Onele the Earl of Tyron that Archrebels country, and was situate within two or three miles of the Blackwater in the country of Tyrone, where her Majesty had heretofore a Fort. So this place was forth with made defensible, and there were left in Garrison three or four of the Companies which came out of Britain.  
Now after the fortifying and victualling of that Garrison, and other necessaries fit for the holding of it, the Deputy, with Sir john Norice and the rest of the Army, marched to Monohan, another ward bordering upon the said Archrebels country, and held as then by Sir john Dowdal an English Knight and his company. So after order taken for the victualling of that place, and other necessaries, 
The Lord deputy coming forwards, Tyrone returned back.  the Army marched back towards the Newry in the Province of Ulster, where Sir Henry Bagnal Knight (the Marshal) commanded five Companies which lay there continually in garrison. But the Archrebel Tyrone hearing of the Lord Deputies return back, did purpose (as it was thought) to have possessed himself of the pace before him, that lieth between the Newry and Dundalk aforesaid, thereby to offend him in his passage. Word being brought to the Lord deputy hereof, and he knowing that the said Archrebel purposed to pass within four or five miles of the place where the Lord deputy encamped: the next night thereupon there were Scouts sent out, & word brought by them that they had descried the said Archrebels army. Whereupon order was given, that there should be certain horse and foot made ready, to attend the Lord deputy and Sir john Norice, who went forwards with those men, until they came within sight of the Archrebels whole army, being then reputed four thousand strong of horse and foot. But whether the Lord deputy were ill guided, or whether the enemy in fear to save himself made more haste than the English could follow, I know not, but for that time they escaped. But it seemed that fear served to some good purpose: for afterwards in our passage through the place we were not at all intercepted, although the Enemy might have done it with great advantage.  
Now, after leaving some companies at the Newry and Calingford, 
1595.  the English returned to Dundalke, where (after the establishing of that Garrison, 
August.  and others in the English pale) the Lord deputy, with Sir john Norice and the rest of the Council, went to Dublin. Shortly after their being there, it was concluded upon, that Sir john Norice then General should draw an army into the field. The place for the companies to join was appointed, and other preparations for the army, as carriages, pioneers, victuals, etc. sparingly provided. Not fully so well provided, as when the Lord deputy went himself, and therefore not so much expected to be performed by him, as by the Deputy) although the numbers of men were left unto himself for to name: it was given out that the General should go to victual Armah, whatsoever was beside pretended: and indeed that charge was faithfully performed by him, and as much for the Queen's honour, as any thing that hath been done since the Archrebel Tyrone first entered into his rebellion.  

September.  For after that by a tedious travel with the whole army to and fro about four or five times from the Newry to Armah (which the General was fain to do in regard he was but sparingly furnished of carriages, besides his army which were but thirteen hundred strong thereby much weakened) at this time did the said Tyrone take all the advantage he could. And at the General's last return from Armah, the Enemy sent three hundred of his best shot to lodge in a place, where our English army should pass through, to meet the General and intercept him in his passage. But it fell out that our men in their march had possessed themselves of that pace before the Enemy: which the General perceiving, and withal knowing himself followed in the arrear of our army both with horse and foot of the enemies, made a halt in the place where he perceived them to follow, and so stayed until two hundred of the archrebels horse came up to charge him. But they (finding him as ready to join as they) retired back to the archrebel, who was ready with other horse to have seconded them, if they had attempted any thing to any purpose.  
Hereupon Tyrone sent down of his foot 200. Scots and 300. shot to have galled the General's troop of horse: but he (although unarmed) made good that place where he first made a stand (which was with the loss of some of his best horse) until he had sent for three or four wings of shot from the Colours; himself in this stand (which was in effect against Tyrones whole army) was shot in the arm, and in the belly, his horse under him shot in three or four places. His brother Sir Thomas Norice shot thorough the thigh: Sir Richard Wingfield Commander of the General's horse had his arm broken with a shot (no other man hurt of any name) only of horse and foot about eighteen slain, besides some twenty or thirty hurt. This stand so honourably made by him was to good purpose, otherwise it could not be but that our whole army had been overthrown: but how Tyrone (upon the slaughter of two hundred of his Scots, besides some of his best shot) was followed, he liveth to make report of it, if he list: but I am sure (so botly) that in four days he could not hear of twenty of his men together in a company, they had so dispersed themselves in the pursuit.  

October.  After this service done by the General, within short time he came to Dublin: where after a month of six weeks stay there he went down to his government of Munster. Tyrone oftentimes after this conflict, did send a feigned show of submission unto the Lord deputy, (namely whiles that the General was in Munster) and thereupon he was harkened unto, 
November.  and Commissioners were sent from the Lord Deputy to talk with him upon some Articles: beside, Sir Henry Warren Knight was employed in that service, and had free access to Tyrone. The cause why Sir john Norice the General retired himself from those public affairs, after his good service done, is known to many, and every private man could speak of the cross between the Deputy and him, whosoever was faulty: But the state (whiles they governed) stood in better terms, than it hath done since, howsoever it hath been thought that the treating of peace did prejudice any good proceedings.  
At this time Munster was quiet and most part of Lemster (except Feaugh Mack-Hughes country) kept in good terms: In Conacht, the misery that they had endured before, 
Munster in good quiet.  taught them to desire quietness, only they would speak reproachfully and bitterly against Sir Richard Bingham their Governor. The towns upon the borders of the North, and those of the English pale were defended by garrison, so that there was no great harm done to the English pale, but by the incursions of some of the Orrelyes, who were continually prayed and seized upon by our garrisons: all Ulster both at that time, and now continueth still rebellious, and this was the state of the country at that time, when Sir john Norice withdrew himself into Munster.  
After his being at Munster, the said General Norice came to Dublin, where staying some two months, there came order out of England, 
1596.  that he and Sir jeffrey Fenton should be joined in Commission to treat with Tyron upon some Articles of peace. 
April.  There was (as I have formerly said) Commissioners appointed by the deputy to treat concerning the same business: but after the order came out of England that Commission ceased, 
Messengers appointed between the Commissioners and Tyrone.  and the said Sir john Norice, and Sir jeffrey Fenton were authorized in their places. Those that were appointed as messengers between the Commissioners & Tyrone were Sir Warram Sellinger, and Captain William Warren, both of them sufficient men, and of Tyrones old acquaintance, and those who faithfully proceeded according to their instructions. These men brought to that pass by the direction of the Commissioners, that he was to have his pardon: and no question had he meant to be loyal, those sleight doubts that he made of his safety would never have made him unmindful of so high and merciful a grace and favour, after his most vile and treacherous offence.  
It may be doubted because there was some private cross between men of high place, that their cross would have hindered his hope of deserving well hereafter: It was reported that he should say so much, surely (which if he did) it was but to excuse his intended treachery, as he hath often done since. Now during the Commissioners stay on the borders, Tyrone sent his own submission in by the aforesaid two Agents: and beside sent into Dundalk (for to make the better show of his feigned submission) some of the chiefest men of Ulster. As namely, Mack Gwyer, Mack Mahun, the Orrelyes and others to deliver their submissions to the Commissioners: so after the receiving of them in, 
May.  the Commissioners repaired to Dublin to the State, and so shortly afterward from thence, they went towards Conacht, according to their Commission. Where they were to meet with Odonele, and others of his country, there to receive them into submission, as they had those of Ulster.  
Sir john Norice being chief Commissioner with Sir jeffrey Fenton, held notwithstanding his place as General of the Army, and did carry the same into Conacht, most part of which Army, continued in the Province all the time of his being there: At his coming thither he found all the country in rebellion, and in great misery, yet most part of the best men in the country were ready to receive her majesties gracious pardon, most of them did come in very submissively, and made offer to do her Majesty good service.  
Sir Richard Bingham was grown somewhat grievous amongst those of Conacht, and they would bitterly complain against him, alleging that he was the cause of their revolt: but that is their custom, and he must be a man of very rare government, that shall every way satisfy, or give content to their rebellious affections. Upon the country's complaint, Sir Richard Bingham was sequestered from the government of that Province, & they were harkened unto in whatsoever they could allege against him: so gracious and just is her Majesty in every way, righting a nation, 
1596.  which notwithstanding prove most disloyal and rebellious.  

November.  Now during Sir Richard bingham's sequestration, Sir john Norice had absolutely the command of his said Province, and did (during his time) very good service: namely, in bringing into her majesties obedience many of the best gentlemen of the country, and continually praying, spoiling, and killing of the rest, who (being desperately obstinate) held themselves still in rebellion. This his good service so performed against those persons, was sometimes by the garrisons, and sometimes by the Army, as they marched through the country: insomuch, that at the General's departure forth of the country, he left it in good terms.  
So about December, he was called from thence to Dublin, where (after some stay there) the State having notice, that the garrison of Armah was like to be distressed (if they were not presently relieved) the General was appointed to draw an Army into the field, for the victualling of that place: but it should appear he was authorized to treat with Tyrone, about the victualling of it. For the Army being drawn together by Dundalk, and ready to march, there was such order taken, that he the said Tyrone should suffer it to be victualled by two or three Companies from the Newry: which was performed, 
januarie.  and so the Army disposed into the garrisons again.  
It should seem, that besides the victualling of that place, it was appointed that the said Tyrone should speak personally with the Commissioners: for that after it was agreed, that he should suffer it to be victualled, he appointed a day to speak with the Commissioners, Sir George Bowser being then joined with the others in Commission. What their conference was when they met, I know not altogether: but the manner of their meeting was this.  
Tyrone having his Army near unto the place appointed for the Parley, caused four or five hundred of his shot, together with his best horse, to lie within a mile of the same his Army, who were then encamped on the side of a hill near Dundalk: there was six gentlemen of the General's troop of horse appointed to stand on the one side of the ford of a little river there, where the parley was, and six others of Tyrones to stand on the further side with him in sight of the Commissioners: he seeing the Commissioners come down from our Army, began to come forward himself, not suffering any other to come with him, so saluting Sir john Norice, told him he was glad to see him, being of his old acquaintance. Sir john Norice likewise told him, that he would be glad to see him become a faithful subject: withal remembering him of the great favours that her Majesty had showed him heretofore, and that (yet) her Highness was mercifully inclined to have him received into grace, if there were any hope he would forsake his treacherous course, and become a faithful obedient subject.  
He answered with great protestations, that he was sorry for his offence, and that there was no Prince in the world, whom he did or would more honour and reverence, than her Majesty; never naming her Highness, but with his hat off: 
Tyrones' answer.  all which shows of obedience in him, made many believe that he meant to become otherwise, then since he hath proved himself. But those that have lived long in that country amongst them, know by experience, that they are a people full of malecontentment, inconstancy, rebellion and treason: desiring no other government, but their own rude barbarous and disordered kind of life and manners, most horrible and odious to all that fear God, obey their Prince, and love their Country.  
It was ever doubted by Sir john Norice, and to be believed of every one that know the Rebel Tyrone, that he never meant to be faithful in his word: wherefore his treacherous delays could not be imputed to any remiss course held by Sir john Norice towards Tyrone. But there is no question, 
Sir john Norices doubt of Tyrone.  had Sir john Norice lived, he would have made it appeared unto the world (as he hath done heretofore) that the zeal he did bear to do her Majesty and his Country service, was such, as that private malice in crossing him should never have had power, either to make him fail in the least point of his allegiance, or to bury any of his honourable intended enterprises.  

1597.  I have heard him say myself, and so have others which now live in Ireland, 
April.  that if he could but hope, that the Rebel Tyrone would unfeignedly accept of her majesties grace and mercy towards him, and that he the said Sir john Norice might have been the instrument to have persuaded him to become a faithful subject, he would not have cared what labour or pains he endured to be assured thereof.  
It was thought that the prosecuting of Feugh Mac Hugh was contrary to the Articles agreed upon between the Commissioners and the Rebel Tyrone; and it should appear that he disliked thereof. For after his pardon was sent him by Sir Edward Moor, and he in all things (to the show of the world) ready to have accepted thereof: on the sudden his pardon was brought back, and he returned exceedingly discontented. After the time of this last treaty with Tyrone, which was in the latter end of january aforesaid, he remained upon the borders of the North, still expecting direction how to proceed in those Northern affairs, which continued from the month of january aforesaid 1596. until the month of May in the year 1597. following, 
1597.  for the space of four months. 
May.  At which time he the said General Norice received advertisement out of England, that the Lord boroughs should come over Deputy into Ireland: So until his coming the General kept himself upon the borders of the North.  
It was thought at the Lord boroughs coming over, the old grudge would be renewed: but I think that matter was carried into England, before the Lord Borowes departed thence. For that after their meeting (contrary to the expectation of many) Sir john Norice carried himself very discreetly and respectively towards him: besides that, he made known unto him the state of the country at that present, together with his best counsel and advice, for the reforming of the desperate estate that then the kingdom was left in. In so much as it was thought, before Sir john Norice his going into his government of Munster, that they were both good friends.  
But now upon the Lord Borowes his receiving of the Sword, Sir john Norice was absolutely sequestered from all command, except that of the Province, and so sent down into Munster, with an opinion to get leave to pass into England: But that fell out contrary to his expectation. So he hast over three months, with a show of his health, although inwardly he felt his own grief. 
General Norice conceiveth a grief.  And thus the cause of his conceived grief was the hastening of his death, and so judged of by most men which knew the same.  
The manner of his death was answerable to his honourable life, 
The good General Norice deceased in Ireland 1597. at his brother's house at Mayallo.  and known to some of his servants and followers, who now with great grief must rue it. He died the third day of September 1597. at his Brother Sir Thomas Norices house in the town of Mayallo in the Province of Munster within the kingdom of Ireland, at the 50. year of his age: having spent 26. of them (being the most flourishing time of his life) in her majesties service against her enemies, in the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, France, Britain and Ireland, as particularly before and here finally is mentioned.  
The Honourable Lord Henry Norice Baron of Rycot, father of the said Lord General, had five sons more all Martial men, uz. Master William his eldest son serving in Ireland, and there deceased: Sir Edward his third son serving lastly at Ostend, now living: Sir Henry Norice his fourth son, and Sir Thomas his fifth son, both serving lastly in Ireland, hurt and died there, but buried in England: and Master Maximilian his sixth and youngest son died in France. The honourable Lady Margery Mother to all these died at London 1599 The said honourable Lord Henry their father died at Rycot Anno 1601.  
Thus being entreated to set down what I knew that passed upon Sir john Norices side, at his latter days in Ireland; I have (although not iournally) yet of my certain knowledge truly and duly described all the notable occurrents that passed from his last coming out of Britain, to the time of his death in Ireland, as before is said. All this service in Ireland was set down by Daniel Gyles, sometime Page, and after lately servant to the said General Norice at his death, as aforesaid.  
FINIS.