john iij King of POLAND Great Duke of Lithuania, Russia, Prussia Samogitia, &c  
Pag. 163    

The History of POLAND, IN Several LETTERS to Persons of Quality.  
Giving an Account of the Ancient and Present State of that Kingdom, 

Historical,  
Geographical,  
Physical,  
Political, and  
Ecclesiastical;   VIZ.  
It's Origin and Extent, with a Description of its Towns and Provinces, the Succession and remarkable Actions of all its Kings, and of the Great Dukes of Lithuania: The Election Power and Coronit●●● o●● the King: The Senate, or House of Lords: The 〈◊〉 and Form of Government: The Privileges of the G●●●●ry their Religion, Learning, Language, Customs, Ha●●●s, Manners, Riches, Trade, and Military▪ Affairs; together with the State of Physic and Natural Knowledge 〈◊〉 also an Account of the Teutonick Order, and of the Duke of Curland, his Family and Territories. With Sculptures, and a new Map after the best Geographers.  
With several Letters relating to Physic.  
VOL. I.  
By BERN. CONNOR, M. D. Fellow of the Royal Society, and Member of the College of Physicians; who in his Travels in that Country collected these Memoirs from the best Authors, and his own Observations.  
Published by the Care and Assistance of Mr. SAVAGE.  
London, Printed by J. D. for Dan. Brown without Temple-Bar, and A. Roper in Fleetstreet. M DC XCVIII.   

THE PREFACE.  
HAving neither a Genius, nor a Talon for History, much less for Politics, and having passed but a very small time at the late King of Poland's Court, I can neither promise the Critics, nor Politicians, that Politeness of Style, nor those exact Rules and Circumstances of History they generally expect, and are accustomed to meet with in Rela●●ions of this nature. For the Memoirs I collected, and the Remarks I made in that Nation, as well as in other Foreign Countries, were first intended for my own Curiosity; until being come some few Years ago from my Travels into England, and finding there had not been yet published in our Tongue any Account of this vast neighbouring Kingdom, I was often discoursed, chiefly during this last Election, about the Constitution of that Country, and was desired to communicate to the Public what I knew of it. This gave me occasion to revise my Memoirs, and to consider that if they were put into good order, they might perhaps be of some use, because the Form of Government in Poland is in some respect like that of ours. But the first Year I came over, I spent some Months at Oxford to publish a small Latin Treatise of Physical Matters, and to communicate to the Ingenious Gentlemen there what small Insight I was thought to have in Anatomy, and in the Materia Medica. The Summer following I made some Chemical and Anatomical Demonstrations at Cambridg. These two last Winters I have been much taken up here in Town in trying a great many Chemical and Anatomical Experiments, and in publishing my Treatise de Medicina Mystica; and besides, being busied in my other Occupations in the Practice of Physic, to which I have entirely applied myself of late, as being more suitable to my Temper and Profession than Historical ones, I neither could take any Delight, nor have any Leisure to write over, or to put into due method the Memoirs I brought from Poland: so that the Public is indebted to my ingenious Friend Mr. Savage; for without his help this Account of Poland could not doubtless have thus appeared these several Years.  
I hope Ingenuous and Candid Persons will excuse the Faults and Defects they will undoubtedly meet with in this Historical Relation; since what I designed only to do at my own leisure in some Years, I have dispatched with too much Precipitation in few Months, to satisfy the Curiosity of People during the late Election in Poland, who longed to see some Account of that Kingdom published. Wherefore I neither deserve nor desire any other Reputation by it, than that being the first that has given any History of that Country in our Language, I give occasion to others that may travel after me in Poland, to give a more satisfactory Account thereof.  
I admire our English Gentry, who travel into Germany, have never the Curiosity to go either from Berlin through Prussia or Posnania to Warsaw, or from Vienna through Silesia to Cracow. They may with ease perform this Journey in three months' time, and not think their time lost; for though there are not so many Rarities to be seen, nor that Conveniency of travelling ●●s in most other Countries, yet they may observe the most remarkable Places in Poland, the peculiar form of Government, the Splendour of the Court, and the extraordinary Grandeur of the Nobility, who are not so barbarous nor so unpolished, as they are generally represented. For these sixty or seventy Years past, the Poles have taken a Humour to travel, and have of late refined themselves extremely, having had French Queens and French Factions reigning amongst them during the four last Reigns successively; which has produced this good Effect, contrary to the private Designs of France, that not only the rough Temper of the Poles is made more polite, and their Behaviour more civil, but likewise their Judgement improved, and they themselves rendered more capable of knowing their own Interest, and more wary than formerly of a Despotic Power, which their Kings of late, assisted by the French, have laboured to introduce: for the Poles are now sensible that the French King, who is absolute at home, and well known to be ambitious enough to enlarge his Conquests abroad, has just reason to think that it would have been casier for him to manage his Interest against the Empire with a King of Poland, who was likewise absolute, than it is now with one who entirely depends on the uncertain Resolutions of a free Parliament: Because, let a King of Poland be ever so Despotic, his Kingdom being poor, he will always want Money either to satisfy his Pleasure, or to gratify his Ambition, and will scarcely ever be proof against fifty thousand Louis-d'Or's.  
The Poles are not only watchful against the encroaching Factions of France, but likewise they begin to consider the unhappy Condition of their enslaved Neighbours, the Muscovites, Swedes, Danes, Germans and Turks, who groan under the heavy Yoke of the unlimited Power of their Sovereigns. These visible Examples make them so very jealous of their Kings, and so extreme fond of their Liberty, that they will not only always keep their Crown elective, but likewise oblige their new King to enlarge their Privileges, which are at this time more ample than ever they have been before. And it is not to be imagined that the King of Poland will become Despotic as the King of Denmark did; because in Denmark the King, Clergy and common People being kept under by the exorbitant Power of the Nobility, joined together, and soon brought the Nobility to declare the King Absolute, choosing rather to be under one Master than under several petty Tyrants. But in Poland, both Gentry and Clergy, who are very numerous and powerful, have a joint Interest to limit the King's Power, and to keep the Common People in subjection, who are stupidly pleased with, or rather insensible of their Slavery. And the Notion of Liberty is so inbred with the Polish Gentry, that if they should suspect that their King did aim at making any Breach upon their Laws, they not only think themselves no longer obliged to pay him Allegiance, but likewise exclude his Children: For they maintain, That ●●ex est Rex, their Law is their King; and that they elect a Prince only to head their Army, against the Invasion of Foreigners, and to govern the turbulent Spirit of the Gr●●●●●● who think they are all equal among themselves, and their King but the first among his Eq●●ls. So th●● the ●●urest way for a King of Poland to ma●● the Crown Hereditary, is never to 〈◊〉 but to ●●ave entirely to the free will of the Di●● to ●●ouse whom they please. Which 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 by the bad Success Prime 〈◊〉 had in the ●●te Election, caused by the ill Con●●●● of King ●●obieski his Father, who prompted by his 〈◊〉 and French Counsel, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ●●ears before his Death, to persuade the Die●● i●● those a Successor; which drew such 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Jealousy upon his Children, that very few appeared for them in the last Election, th●● he obliged the Chief Officers to whom he 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ●●onsiderable Employment, to take an Oath to 〈◊〉 his children's Interest after his 〈◊〉 But the Poles, who think themselves to longer ●●ound by their Oaths, than they find them conformable to their Laws and Interest, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 t●● abandon those Princes to choose the Elector of Saxony; and to give a new Precedent for two things they never practised before, to exclude their own King's Sons, and to elect a Germane Prince. For the distance and situ●●i●●n of the Elector of Saxony's Hereditary Dominions, and the Jealousies the other Germane Princes would have conceived, had he usurped more Power than the Laws allowed, took away from the Poles all suspicion that this Prince would ever attempt to invade their Privileges, as they apprehended the Prince of Conti, and perhaps John III's Children would have done.  
When I came first into this Nation, my chief Design was to converse with Physicians, and other Naturalists, to improve my Knowledge in the Practice of Physic, and in Natural History: But finding little here to satisfy my Curiosity in these Matters, that I might not lose my Labour in travelling in so remote a Country, I resolved to look into their Chronicles, to inform myself of the Origin of the Monarchy; of the Succession, and Remarkable Actions of all its Kings; of its Geography, and its Products; and to inquire into the Ancient and Present State of that vast Kingdom. Which I have done with as much Care and Accuracy as I could well compass in so short a time.  
People perhaps will admire how I could pretend to give an Account of so large and Ancient a Kingdom, not having been in it a full Twelvemonth. I own this were no small presumption in me, had I undertaken to give a complete History thereof; but as I only relate briefly either what I have gathered from the best Polish Authors, learned from the most Intelligent Natives, or observed myself, I hope the Public will have no ill Thoughts of me for this Attempt.  
The first Writers of the Polish History, like most other Historians, were credulous and superstitious, and have filled their Writings with a great many Romantio and almost fabulous Stories, which I have omitted, though I have inserted some, as the golden Tooth, the devouring Dragon, Popiel's being eaten by Rats, and some others; not with a design to make the Public believe them, or that I believed 'em myself, but only to show how the Ignorance of some, and the unfair Relations of others, have imposed upon the World in all Ages.  
I knew something of the Constitution of Poland before I went thither, having formerly conversed with several Gentlemen of that Country at Paris, in Italy, and Germany; which inclined me in some measure to travel with some of them from thence into that Kingdom. Besides, I came out of Poland with the Electoress of Bavaria, the King's Daughter, in Company with several Natives thereof, who attended her Highness from Warsaw to Brussels. In this long Journey I had likewise opportunity to inform myself further of the present State of that Country. So that I have not only collected this imperfect Account, which I have ventured to give of it, during the little time I resided at the King's Court, but likewise before I came thither, and since I left it.  
I did not at first design this Historical Account should swell to so great a Bulk, nor that chiefly the Geographical Part should be so tediously long, but thought to reduce the whole to the narrow compass of one Volume; until Mr. S— considering the Inconveniency of too small an Epitome, enlarged the Geography of the Kingdom of Poland, and of the Great Duchy of Lithuania, to make the Relation of them both more exact, and more satisfactory to such as are desirous to compare the Towns and Provinces with the Map.   

THE CONTENTS OF THE First Volume.  

Letter I. TO the Right Honourable William Lord Dartmouth. 

Of the Origin of the Kingdom of Poland, with the Succession and remarkable Actions of its first Dukes from the Year 550 to 830.    
Let. TWO: To the Right Honourable Laurence Earl of Rochester, Ambassador from his Majesty Charles II. into Poland. 

Containing the second and third Classes of the Kings of that Country, or the Succession and Remarkable Actions of the Families of Piastus and Jagello, from the Year 830, to the Year 1574.    
Let. III. To his Grace William Duke of Devonshire, Lord Steward of his Majesty's Household. 

Of the Succession and remarkable Actions of the four Classes of the Kings of Poland, consisting of mixed Families, from the Year 1574, to 1674.    
Let. IU. To the Right Honourable William Earl of Yarmouth. 

Concerning the Family and remarkable Actions of John III. King of Poland. As also his Daughter's Marriage to the present Elector of Bavaria, etc.    
Let. V. To the Right Honourable Charles Lord Townsend. 

Of the Extent and Products of Poland, together with a Description of the chief Towns and Provinces of that Kingdom.    
Let. VI To George Stepney, Esq; His Majesty's Envoy Extraordinary to the Princes of the Empire. 

Of the Extent and Products of the Great Duchy of Lithuania, with an Account of its chief Towns and Provinces.      

The CONTENTS of the Second Volume, being the present State of Poland. In several Letters.  

Letter I. To his Grace Thomas Lord Archbishop of Canterbury. 

Of the Form of the Government in Poland, and of the King's Power and Revenues.    
Let. II. To his Grace the Duke of Norfolk. 

Of the Senate of Poland, or House of peers, consisting of Bishops, Palatins, Castellans, and the ten great Officers of the Crown; as likewise of the Starosta's and other Persons of Note.    
Let. III. To the Right Honourable James Vernon, Esq; Principal Secretary of State. 

Of the Diet or Parliament of Poland, and other Courts of Judicature.    
Let. IU. To the Earl of Marlborough. 

Of the Election and Coronation of a King of Poland, with the Interregnum.    
Let. V. To the Lord Marquis of— 

Of the Power of the Gentry, and Slavery of the People in Poland; where the Genius, Character, and manner of living of the Poles are related.    
Let. VI To his Grace the Duke of Ormond. 

Of the state of the Army, Forts, and Military Affairs in Poland.    
Let. VII. To his Excellency Monsieur de Cleverskerk Ambassador from Holland. 

An Account of the Trade and Riches of Poland, as likewise of the City of Dantzic.    
Let. VIII. To the Earl of Burlington. 

Of the Origin of the Teutonic Order, and the Succession of its great Masters in Prussia, and in Livonia; with its present State in the Empire.    
Let. IX. To Sir Thomas Millington, Precedent of the College of Physicians. 

Of the state of Learning, of Natural Knowledge, and particularly of the Practice of Physic in Poland; with an account of some natural things, chiefly of a Disease in the Hair peculiar to the Poles, called Plica Polonica.    
Let. X. From Baron Blomberg, his Highness the Duke of Curland's Minister, to Dr. Connor. 

Giving an Account of the Duke of Curland's Family, Strength and Revenues, as likewise the Extent and Products of his Territories.    
Let. XI. To the Honourable Mr. Bridges, eldest Son to my Lord Chandois, and Fellow of the Royal Society. 

Giving an Anatomical Account of the Natural Cause why People must necessarily die of old Age alone, attended with no other Disease.    
Let. XII. To— 

Explaining the Nature of curable and incurable Wounds, demonstrating by Practical Observations, and Anatomical Experiments, the small number of Wounds which are of themselves absolutely mortal, and showing the true use and common abuse of Styptic Waters and Powders in the Practice of Surgery.      

A Catalogue of such Authors as have been consulted in both Volumes of this Book; whereof some have been quoted, and others omitted on account of Consent in Opinion.  

POmponius Mela de Sarmatiâ  
Commentariolus Hartmanni Schedii de Sarmatiâ  
Aeneas Silvius de Poloniâ, Lithuania, & Prussiâ, five Borussiâ.  
Martini Cromeri Polonia.  
Alexandri Guagnini Rerum Polonicarum.  
Sigismundi Liberi Baronis in Herberstein Descriptio Lithuaniae.  
Jacobi Pritusii de Provinciis Polonicis.  
Chronicon Poloniae Vincentii Kadlub●●i.  
Matth. de Michovia Chronica Polonorum.  
Polonici Regni tredecem Mutationes.  
Johannes Duglossus annal Polonorum.  
Salomonis Neugebaveri Historia Polonica.  
Johannes Herburtus à Fulstin Compendium Historiae Polonicae.  
Flosculi Legum Polonicarum.  
Stanislai Orichovii annal.  
Mariciani Mattbiae Ladouli Constitut. Polon. Compendium.  
Pastorii Florus Polonicus.  
Johannis Boteri Poloniae Descriptio.  
Historia Reformationis Polonicae. Authore Stanistao Lubiensko equity Polono.  
Stanislai Krzistanowicksi Status Poloniae.  
Simonis Star●●vols●●ii Poloniae.  
Relation Historique de Pologne. Par Mons. Hauteville.  
Hartk●●●bii Respublica Polonorum.  
Adam Bremensis Seculi IX. Scriptor, Historia Ecclesiastics.  
Alhini Chronicon.  
Hornii Arca Noae.  
Historia de Vitâ & Obitu Sigismundi Augusti.  
Heidenstein de Rebus Polonicis ab exoessii Sigismundi Augusti.  
D●●●●soanorum Clades a Johanne Lasicio Polon●●.  
●●ob●●slaus Balbinus Historis Bohemiae.  
〈◊〉 Historia Bohemiae.  
〈◊〉 Chronica Pomeranie.  
Alberti Cranzii Polonicarum Rerum.  
〈◊〉 Annal●●s Polon.  
〈◊〉 I. Regis Poloniae cum Fragmentls 〈◊〉.  
Vladislai Boloni●● & Sueciae Principis Vita.  
Casamir Roy de Pologne.  
Guerre Civili di Poliniae, di Alberto Vi●●ina.  
Description d' ukraine, par Beauplan.  
Cuerres des Turcs avec la Pologne.  
Histoire des Cosaques & leurs Guerres contre la Pologne.  
La Politique des Polonois.  
〈◊〉 diere Histoire des Dietes.  
Philippi Honorii de Interregno.  
Grammatica seu Institutio Polonice Linguae.  
Effata Regum Poloniae.  
〈◊〉 Polonica.    

Books printed for Daniel Brown and Abel Roper.  
1. FOur Treatises of Physic and Chirurgery. 1. A Physico-Medical Essay concerning Alkaly and Acid. 2. Farther Considerations on the said Essay. 3. A new Light of Chirurgery. 4. The new Light of Chirurgery vindicated from many unjust Aspersions. By J. Colebatch, a Member of the College of Physicians.  
2.— His Treatise of the Gout.  
3.— His Doctrine of Acids in the Cure of Diseases farther asserted; in which is contained some things relating to the History of Blood, etc.  
4. Nature and Qualification of Religion, in reference to Civil Society. Written by Sam. Puffendorf, Counsellor of State to the late King of Sweden. Translated from the Original.  
The Present and Ancient State of Muscovy, in which is inserted all things material to be known in relation to that vast Country; with several Sculptures, and a new Map.   


A New Map of POLAND Exactly delineated after the best Modern Geographer.    

THE sentient and Present STATE OF ●●OLAND.  
PART I. The Ancient State.  

LETTER I.  
〈◊〉 the Right Honourable WILLIAM Lord Dartmouth.  
〈◊〉 the Origin of the Kingdom of Poland; with the Succession and Remarkable Actions of its first Dukes, from the Year 550, to 830.  
MY LORD,  
HAving had the good Fortune, some Years since, to meet your Lordship at Venice, in my Travels from France, ●●hrough Italy and Germany into Poland, I ●●ound, that not contented with a superficial ●●nd transitory Account of Places, your Genius led you naturally to inquire not only into the Government, Laws, and Characters of the several Nations you passed through, but likewise to examine nicely into their Maxims of State, and their different Interests; and this, that by discovering the Excellency of some of their Constitutions, and Defects in others, you might, like a wise and thinking Patriot, admire the Perfections of our own Government, Goodness of our Laws, and Wisdom of our Senate, whereof you yourself are so worthy a Member.  
My Lord, You may remember, that after your Resolution to take Medicines, as well as my small Skill in prescribing them, had had the good Effect of curing your Lordship at Venice of that acute Disease which made me almost despair of your Recovery, I left you at Milan with the Earl of Kildare to gather strength; and went through Tyrol, Bavaria and Austria down the Danube, to Vienna; where having stayed for some time to see the Emperor's Court, I set forward, with some Noblemen of Poland, through Moravia and Silesia to Cracow, the Capital City of that Kingdom; from whence, in eight days, we arrived, with a numerous Attendance, at the King's Court, which always resides at Warsaw; where I was kindly received by the late King John Sobieski, who did me the Honour to intrust me with the Care of his decaying Health: and sometime afterwards his Majesty sent me with her Electoral Highness the Princess Tcresa, his only Daughter, then married to the Elector of Bavaria, to take care likewise of her Health in her long Winter Journey from Warsaw to Brussels; which gave me opportunity to come sooner out of that Kingdom, than I at first apprehended I could.  
Tho, my Lord, my chief business both in Poland and other Countries has been always ●●o improve myself in what related pecu●●iarly to the Practice of Physic, and to Natural Knowledge; yet for my own Satisfaction and Curiosity, I was desirous to be in●●ormed further, both from the Natives themselves, and their Historians, of the true State and Origin of this vast Kingdom. I found that Poland has met with the same Fate with most other Countries, that is, to be little known from its Minority: For when this Monarchy was first founded by Lechus, there were no Learned Men to hand down to Posterity by their Writings the true State thereof from ●●ts Infancy; but what small Account there is extant of it, was written some Ages after: Wherefore, not having besides been a twelvemonth in that Kingdom, I cannot presume to give that satisfaction which perhaps your Lordship might otherwise expect from the discourse I lately had with you; yet I can securely assert, that the following Relation of the Origin of that Country is drawn out of its most authentic Historians.  

Origin of Poland.  POLAND, by the Romans called 
* Pomp. Mela lib. I. de situ Orbis, cap. 3. & lib. III. ●●ap. 4.  Sar●●natia Europaea, came to be a distinct Nation, and to be governed by Elective Princes, much about the Middle of the Sixth Century, sometime after that the Goths and Vandals had ravaged the South parts of Europe, and abandoned their own bleak Northern Habitations to establish themselves in warmer Regions, Italy, France, Spain and afric, which gave occasion to the 
* Albinus tit. 6. pag. 70, etc.  Sclavonians, as Sabellicus, Thuanus, and other Authors have it, to quit the Cimmerian Bosphorus or Straits of Caffa, Great Sarmatia, and Great Russia, or Moscovy, to inhabit those desolate Countries. Afterwards, this People, dividing themselves into two considerable Bodies, one passed the Danube, and settled in Dalmatia, Istria, Bosnia, Carynthia, Bulgaria, as far as Greece, and in some part of 
† Adam. ●●remens●●s seculi 9 scriptor, in lib. I. Hist. Ecclesiast. cap. 10, etc.  Germany; while the other, under the Conduct of three Brothers, Lechus, Cechus and Russus, turned towards the North to possess themselves of those Provinces which the Goths and Vandals had forsaken.  
These Brothers 
𝄁 Guagnini Rerum Polon. p. 50.  are said to have built Bremen in Germany, so naming it from a Sclavonian Word, signifying a Burden, because they had there, as one may say, laid down their Burden, and were in great measure freed from their former Miseries. These Princes likewise divided their Followers into three Parties, whereof one commanded by Cechus, settled in that Kingdom which lies between Poland and Germany, now called Bohemia; the other, headed by Lechus, fixed in the lower part of Great Sarmatia, a Flat and Champain Country; whence the Natives have since called it Polska, from the Sclavonian word Pole, which 
Whence so called, and what by the Inhabitants.  either signifies Plainness, or Hunting; and the Germans, Poland, or Even-Ground. 
* Lib. I. cap. 2. pag. 21.  Hartknoch is of Opinion that Poland was an ancient Name of Sarmatia in the time of Ptolomey, before the Poles inhabited this Champain Country, which it might have taken from the Bulani or Bolani, that are said to have settled near the Vistula, and to have come from Sarmatia. The third Brother 
† Hornii Arca-Noae, & Pet. Lucari in Annal. ●●agus●●is.  Russus established himself in that Province of Poland, which is now called from his Name Russia.  
Not only the Testimony of Authentic Writers, but also our own Reason will convince us, that all these Nations have originally been the same; which may appear by their Languages, being but as so many Dialects of one Mother-Tongue, the Sclavonian; which is now spoke in more Countries than any Language of Europe.  

Founded by Lechus.  Here Lechus had no great need of Force to establish himself; he met with but little resistance, all this Country having been left desolate for some time before by the Vandals: Only 
𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁 Guagnini Rerum Polon. p. 51.  Regulus, a Germane Prince, is said to have oppos d him at first, and to have challenged him, but was soon vanquished by him in a Duel; whereby he became Master of Pomerania, which was then Regulus his Country.  
In these days there were no Cities in Poland, no Money was yet known, nor any Laws writ, such as they had being only pronounced 
What Laws.  by their Prince's Mouths, and handed down by Tradition to the People. 
* Herburt. de Fulstin. Senat. Polon. in Chronico p. 2.  Princes were then rather Fathers of Families, than Lords and Masters; and their Revenue consisted only in a moderate Imposition on their Subject's Labour.  
Lechus, my Lord, settled in that great Province which joins the State of Brandenburg, since called Posnania, where he built the first 
The first City.  City, naming it 
† Id. ibid.  Gnesna, from the Sclavonian word Gniazdo, which in that Language signifies a Nest; and this because, that where it was building, a Tree was cut down which had an Eagles' Nest on the Top of it: which Lechus taking for a good Omen, not only called his City Gnesna, and made it the Metropolis of his Kingdom; but also ordered, that the Arms of Poland should for ever after be a Spread-Eagle, which has so continued even down to this day. He likewise built 
Second City.  another City in a Wood, eight Miles from the former, which he named Posnania (by the present Inhabitants called Posnan) signifying in the Polish Tongue Knowledge, because he there met and knew his Brother Cechus, Prince of Bohemia, after above twenty years' absence. This City gave occasion for naming the Province Posnania.  
In Memory of Lechus to this day, the Poles style their Country in their Poems Lechia: and Mr. Montague North, who lived for sometime at Constantinople, has lately told me, that the Turks call a Polander, in their Language, Lech, making the Poles likewise derive their Name from their Founder.  
Tho, my Lord, this Lechus brought that People under a kind of Monarchical Government, yet neither he, nor any of his Successors could ever so far prevail upon them as to make the Succession Hereditary; they having continued Elective for above Eleven hundred years; always reserving a full Power and Authority to themselves, of choosing whom they pleased for their King. Nevertheless, it is to be observed, that they have still hitherto elected one of the Royal Family, where the deceased King had any Issue left, except in this present Election, which is like to go otherwise. I find by their Chronicles, that not so much as a Daughter has been excluded when there has been no Son: However, they always thought fit to acquaint 'em at the time of their Election, that they were not to attribute 
Policy of Poland.  their Accession to the Throne to any Right contracted from their Parents, but were altogether obliged to the Senate and Gentry for putting that Sceptre into their hands. Hereby they intimated how much their Kings were indebted to 'em, and what Necessity they lay under to behave themselves well towards a People that were pleased to raise 'em to a Supreme Dignity, which they had no better Claim to than the meanest Gentleman in the Kingdom. They acquainted them likewise, that they thought themselves no longer obliged to pay them Obedience, than that they kept to their Oaths: And moreover, they always reserved to themselves a Right of deposing them whenever they violated their Laws.  
This Maxim has hitherto proved very beneficial to the Poles for enlarging their Country, and maintaining their Privileges; and might well have extended their Dominions beyond those of any State in Europe, had their other Constitutions been as well grounded, or as exactly observed: For though the Poles have been constantly molested by their Neighbours, the Suedes, Moscovites, Tartars, Turks, Hungarians, and Germans, and their Kingdom been several times reduced to Extremities, burnt and plundered by frequent Incursions, put into Convulsions and Desolations, and thousands of their People been carried away into 
Policy of its Kings.  Captivity; yet by the prudent Conduct and Courage of their Kings, through a desire of gaining the Affection of their Subjects by serving their Country zealously, to the end their Fame and Merits might raise their Children to the Throne after their deaths, the Poles have not only always opposed, but likewise repulsed the exorbitant Force of their Enemies: They have also by degrees enlarged their Country by vast Conquests, and rendered it several times the most formidable of any Kingdom in Europe: They have likewise never submitted to any Foreign Power, no not even to the Romans by force: They have also hitherto inviolably maintained their Liberties, Properties and peculiar manner of Government, against all the Attempts, both of their Enemies abroad, or the Cabals formed either by themselves or their Kings at home: and I believe I may say to their great Commendation, that they are the only Nation in the World who have kept the longest Succession of Kings without subjecting themselves either to a Despotic or Hereditary Monarchy; their Princes being now, as most are thought to have been at first, wholly elected by the People.  
Tho, My Lord, I have said the Poles have never excluded their King's Children, yet must it be understood that their Crown has not always been in the same Family, by reason that from time to time the Royal Line has failed; and therefore they have consequently been obliged to elect Princes out of other Families; but still I may very well affirm, that there has never been any Stranger chosen, except in the present Election, where the preceding King had any Issue surviving.  

Number of Princes.  The Princes and Princesses of this Kingdom have in all been fifty, two whereof were Women, as Venda, and Hedwigis, both having had the Government for some time; and the other forty eight were Men. 
* Hartknoch Respub. Polon. p. 22.  At first these Princes were only styled Deuces, Dukes or Generals of Poland; as if their Office in those times had been no other than to head Armies: for 'tis to be observed that to Boleslaus Chrobry they were not so much as crowned. This Title continued from the Year 550, to the Year 1005. when the Emperor Otho III. created Boleslaus I. the Sixteenth Duke of Poland, 
The First King.  King, being the second Christian Prince that had governed that Country, all before him and Miecislaus I. his Father having been Pagans; as were likewise the Poles themselves till the tenth Century, when this Miecislaus the fifteenth Duke of Poland turned Christian in the Year 964, in Pope John the XIIIth's time; by which means his Son Boleslaus came to have the Title of King.  
All the Princes of Poland may be divided 
Four Classes of Kings.  into four Classes, whereof the first and last are of different Families; the second and third of but one, in which the Crown passes from the Father to the Daughter. The first Class reigned from the Year 550, to the Year 830; The second from 830, to 1382; The third from 1382, to 1574; and the last from thence down to our Time.  
I shall now proceed to give your Lordship some short Account of the Succession and most Remarkable Actions of the first Class of the Dukes of Poland, from the Year 550, to the Year 830.  

Lechus. 550.  LECHUS 
* Kadlubkon in Praefat. p. 8.  Son of Anon, first Duke of Poland, as I said before, founded this Nation: 
Gnesna and Posnan built.  He built the first City there, naming it Gnesna, now the Primate's See; as likewise the City of Posnan, Capital of Posnania. 'Tis uncertain how many governed before his Race came to be extinct, and there is great Contest among the Polish Historians about his Successor: but some affirm that he ordered by his last Will (like Alexander the Great) that they should elect the most worthy Person among them.  

Visimirus.  VISIMIRUS his 
† Guagnini Rerum Polon. p. 52.  Nephew was thereupon chosen, who is reported to have extended his Dominions even to the very Borders of Denmark, and to have built a very great Ship which was an exceeding Terror to the Danes. He is also said to have given that Nation a great Overthrow by Sea, and to have pursued his Victory into the very Bowels of that Kingdom, where he subdued many Provinces, and 
His Conquesis.  built several Cities, whereof one was Wismar, which retains his Name to this day. In one Battle this Visimirus is said to have taken the Danish King Prisoner, and to have carried him into Poland; whence afterwards being released, and conspiring together with the Swedes and Holsatians, he made an Incursion into Poland with a numerous Army, but was soon met and vanquished again by Wisimir, who thereupon pushed on his Victory so far as to reduce the greatest part of Denmark, which he then united to Poland. In opposition to this Story Monsicur Pauli, Minister here from Denmark, has assured me that the Poles never made any Conquest in that Country, which may give some Exception to the truth of this King's Reign: though it may very well be supposed that several Kings reigned during the space of 150 Years, there being so much time between the beginning of Lechus his Reign and the Election of Cracus. However, to gratify the Curiosity of the Public, I hope I have not done amiss to insert it, since I withal quote my Author. After many glorious Actions, having greatly augmented his Dominions, this Wisimir died 
His Death.  without Issue.  
Vapovius says that Lechus his Posterity reigned all that space of time between him and Cracus, being 150 Years: yet having consulted all their Historians, I can find no manner of Account given of their Reig●●▪ nor of the Government of Poland in all that space of time.  
Lechus his Issue being extinct, 'tis certain the 
Twelve Woievods.  People elected twelve Woievods (in the Polish Language Captains of War) to govern 'em, who divided that Country into twelve parts: for the Poles sticking close to their Liberty, would then by no means put the Government into one Man's hands. But soon after these 
Deposed.  Palatins disagreeing among themselves, the People chose one  

Cracus. 700.  CRACUS for their Head, a very Rich and Popular Person, reported to have been of the Race of the Gracchis at Rome, who were banished into this Country by King Ancus. Who this Cracus was all Historians do not agree: The Polish Writers say he was one of the twelve Woievods; but the 
* Vide Bohusl. Balbinum, lib. 1. Hist. Bohem. cap. 10. p. 82, etc.  Bohemians affirm he was a Prince of their Country. He gained extremely upon the good Will of his Subjects, for he soon appeased the impending Storms of a Civil War, built a City on the River Vistula, 
Cracow 〈◊〉.  calling it after his own Name Cracow, and transferred his Residence from Gnesna thither; which is the reason that this City has ever since been the Metr●●polis of Poland, in which all the Kings by the Constitution are to be crowned, though they are to live at Warsaw.  

† Guagnini Rerum Polon. p. 55.  There goes a frivolous Story of a monstrous Dragon that raged in those days near this City, who with his poisonous Breath killed all that came near him, and likewise sometimes sallied abroad to the Destruction of thousands; to prevent which they were wont to throw him every day three Oxen, which at length almost causing a Famine, Duke Cracus made use of a Stratagem to destroy him, which was this: He ordered an Ox's Hide to be stuffed full of Sulphur, Nitre, Pitch, and the like, and to be cast to the Monster, who taking it for no other than his daily Offering, greedily devoured it, but quickly found himself inflamed with so great a Drought, that he soon after burst with drinking in the River Vistula.  

His Death.  After this Duke's Death he was yburied, by his own Orders, on a little Hill in sight of the Town, and this to put the Citizens in mind of their Founder. He left three Children, 
His Issue.  Cracus, Lechus, and Venda, whereof  

Lechus II.  LECHUS II. to obtain the Principality murdered his elder Brother Cracus in a Wood; 
His Banishment and Death.  which being soon detected, he was banished the Country, and died in Exile.  

Vend●● 750.  VENDA a Virgin (which shows the Affection the Poles have always had for the Royal Family) succeeded him. She was a very beautiful Princess, and amongst several others was courted by one 
* Micralius lib. 2. Chron. Pomeran. num. 22. p. 161.  Ritiger a Germane Prince, who not proving much in her Favour, came with an Army to force her to marry him, but was bravely opposed and vanquished by her, as the Polish Historians will have it; though the Germane affirm the contrary, and say she drowned herself upon his pursuing her close, 
Her Death.  which the others pretend was occasioned by her hearing Ritiger was a handsome Man, and had killed himself in a rage.  
With this Princess Cracus his Family being 
Twelve Woievods.  extinct, the Poles chose a second time twelve Woievods, who falling out as before among themselves, and the Hungarians and Moravians 
Deposed.  invading their Country, they thought fit to elect one Premislus a Goldsmith for their Duke, afterwards called  

Lescus I. 750.  LESCUS I. The reason of whose being chosen was a Stratagem he had contrived, that saved the Poles when they were in Distress. 
How he came to be elected by  The manner of which was as follows: They being in the Field against the Hungarians and Moravians, and finding themselves much inferior in number to their Enemies, this Goldsmith contrived a way to make 'em seem more numerous, and at the same time to gain 'em a complete Victory; to effect which he got a certain number of Helmets made of the Bark 
A Stratagem.  of Trees, which he daubed over with Quicksilver and Gall, and by Night hung 'em in order of an Army on small Boughs at the side of a Wood, which the Enemy next Morning perceiving, by Reflection of the Sun upon 'em, believing it to be the Polish Army, marched directly towards 'em, when the Poles who were behind the Trees removing the Helmets, the Enemy thought they had retreated for fear; whereupon hotly pursuing 'em into the very heart of the Wood, the Poles, who lay in Ambush, surrounded and cut 'em all to pieces.  
He governed the Poles in Peace and Quietness for a good while, none during his Reign daring to molest that Country. How long he 
His Reign and Death uncertain.  reigned, and where, and of what Distemper he died, is uncertain.  

Election by Horse-race.  This Duke leaving no Issue, a Horse-race was instituted, wherein the Victor was to succeed in the Government. Hereupon a Stone Pillar was raised before Cracow, on which were ●●aid the Crown, Sceptre, Globe and other Regalia, and at the same time a Herald proclaimed the Throne to him that got first from the River Pardnic to the Goal. Upon which several Candidates appearing, one Lescus thinking himself wiser than the rest, laid Iron Spikes in the Road where the Race was to be run, by which the others Horses being 
A Stratagem defeated.  ●●am'd, he came first to the Pillar: but this Fraud being soon detected, instead of being chosen, he was torn to pieces on the spot, and  

Lescus II. 776.  LESCUS II. a poor Country Fellow, whom the Poles looked upon to be destined for their Prince, was elected in the Year 776, who while the others Horses were hampered by the way, running the Race on foot for want of a Horse, though rather to show his Swiftness than out of any thoughts of the Crown, got next the Impostor to the Goal.  

A Commendable Example.  This Duke in Commemoration of his former Condition would once a Year solemnly ●●ay by his Robes, and put on his Country Clothes, which he preserved whilst he lived for that purpose, and which induced all the Courtiers to be as meanly clothed at the same time. They write that he was killed in the 
His Death.  Wars against Charles the Great.  

Lescus III. 804.  LESCUS III. his Son succeeded him, being chosen in the Year 804. He soon forced the 
His Death uncertain.  aforesaid Emperor to a Peace, but when he died I find no mention made. He is said to have had above twenty natural Sons.  

Popiel I. 810.  POPIEL his Son succeeded him in the Year 810. This Prince had none of the good Qualities either of his Father or Grandfather, his greatest 
His Vices.  care being to make much of himself without any regard to the Public. He thought Cracow too much exposed to the Incursions of the Hungarians and Russians, and therefore, for security of his Person, withdrew into the Heart of the Country, first to Gnesna, and afterwards to Cruswitz, where he soon after 
His Death.  died suddenly. 
* Herburt. de Fulstin. p. 11.  His common Execration was wont to be that he might be devoured by Rats, which though it happened not to him, yet his Son Popiel perished by that Fate.  

Popiel II. 815.  POPIEL II. Son to the former, was elected next in the Year 815, and reigned to 830, who being a loose and profligate Prince, was more universally hated than his Father; which his Wife perceiving, as likewise that his Father's Brothers were more beloved, contrived a way to poison them, thereby the better to secure the Succession to her Children. Hereupon, 
A cursed Stratagem.  by her Stratagem, Popiel feigns a dangerous Sickness, and invites his Uncles to visit him; which they speedily obeying, he caused 'em to come to his Bedside, where taking 'em by the Hands, as if just going to leave e World, he recommends to 'em a Cup to ink, which they, little suspecting any Poison, urteously accepted, and drank off; when king leave of their Nephew, a little while ter they fell into excessive Pains, and soon ed. Upon which this barbarous Duke, by e instigation of his Wife, gave out that it as a Judgement from the Gods upon 'em for ●●e treacherous Designs they had formed against him and his Children; and therefore ●●dered their Bodies to lie unburied for a conquerable time, the better to take away all spition of his Crime. Hereupon no body ●●er so much as suspected either Popiel or ●●s Wife of their Deaths, till at length Dine Justice discovered, and punished the Offeners after an extraordinary manner: For all ●●e Chronicles, Histories, and general Tradions of Poland agree, that out of these dead odies came a vast number of huge Rats, 
Judgement upon Popiel by Rats.  schich guided by an unknown Intelligence, ●●llowed Popiel, his Wife and Children wherever they went; neither Rivers, nor strong ●●alls, close Rooms, nor their very Guards as they say) were able to prevent these Ani●●als from crawling about 'em, and continually eeding on their Bodies both night and day: They first devoured the Sons, afterwards the Wife, and lastly Popiel himself, though he retired or safety to an Island in the River Vistula. 'tis said the Watermens were afraid that hey should gnaw through their Boat, and sink ●●m before they reached the Island; for they always pursued through Fire, or whatever else was opposed to 'em with a great deal of Noise ●●nd Fierceness.  
This doubtless your Lordship will think f●●bulous; yet since all their Historians unanimously agree in it, I thought myself oblige to relate it as they do. 'Tis certain the Po●● would never elect any of Popiel's Nephews, ●● any other of his Relations, for the Aversio●● they had conceived to his Name after this ●● normous Crime; so that he was the last of h●● Family that reigned, and likewise the last ●● the first Class of the Dukes of Poland.  
After the Death of Popiel, the Poles elect one Piastus, a Wheelright, nothing related ●● ther to him, or any of his Predecessors. H Family reigned successively, without interru●●tion, for about 800 Years, of which it wolf be too tedious to trouble your Lordship wit a Relation, and therefore I will conclude wit giving you only this imperfect Account ●● the first Princes of Poland, and with subscribing myself,  
My LORD, Your Lordship's most obedient Humble Servant, B. ●●   

LETTER II.  
To the Right Honourable LAURENCE Earl of Rochester, Ambassador from his Majesty Charles II. into Poland.  
Containing the second and third Classes of the Kings of that Country, or the Succession and remarkable Actions of the Families of Piastus and Jagello, from the Year 830, to the Year 1574.  
My LORD;  
THE great Character I found your Lordship had left behind you in Poland, to the Honour of the English Nation, makes me as well admire your prudent Conduct, and circumspect Behaviour at that Court, as the happy Choice so great a Prince made of you, to represent his Royal Person there: for though this Western part of Europe will hardly allow the Poles the same proportion of Sense and Judgement with most other Nations, yet Politicians readily own that there is more Art and Policy required in an Ambassador to manage his Master's Credit and Advantage with the turbulent Spirit of the Senate of Poland, than with any other Court whatever governed by well regulated Methods, and refined Maxims.  
This, my Lord, the vigilant Court of France and wise Republic of Venice have long experienced, and therefore of late, have sent into that Kingdom none but their most accomplished Statesmen.  
The Esteem the Court of Poland professed for your Lordship's Memory was fresh enough in my time to convince me, that you were throughly acquainted with the Genius and Constitution of that Nation; Two things Public Ministers ought chiefly to be versed in, and which are the Rules they generally go by in their Ministry, to compass more effectually their Designs. It would therefore, my Lord, appear vain in me to presume to tell you any thing New as to the present State of that Kingdom, since, by conversing with your Lordship, I have learned some Particulars of that Country I knew nothing of before. The Subject I thought most agreeable for your Entertainment, was a short Account of the Renowned Families of Piastus and Jagello, who reigned about eight hundred Years, and whose remarkable Actions were doubtless out of the Memory of those Grandees you conversed with, being only recorded in voluminous Annals, which, probably, Public and more Important Affairs might not allow your Lordship leisure to peruse.  
The Kingdom of Poland beginning to make some considerable Figure in the World about the 
* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 38.  ninth Century, and having embraced the Christian Religion in the tenth, foreign Nations, particularly its Neighbours, began to look more nicely into it, and to embody its History with their own; so that from thence forward I can promise your Lordship a more certain Account of this Country than hitherto I have given from the sixth Century to that time.  
After the Death of the inhuman Popiel, the last of the first Class of the Princes of Poland, his Cousin Germane, whose Father he had poisoned, aspiring to the Crown, were unanimously rejected by the Poles, either because they were thought unqualified or undeserving, or by reason of Popiel's Crimes, which had entailed a kind of Odium both on them, and all his Posterity. Whereupon a General Assembly or Diet was called at Cruswitz, a small Town in Lower Poland; but not being able to agree, their Session was dissolved. A little while after another was convened in the same place, which being resolved to pitch upon some body to prevent farther Disorders, elected one  

Piastus. 830.  PIASTUS a Wheelright, Son to Cossisco a Citizen of Cruswitz, in gratitude for having supplied their want of Provisions after the following manner.  

* Guagnini Rerum Polon. p. 64. Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 1. p. 13. & Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 68, etc.  
'Cause of his Election.  Piastus having provided a small Collation for the naming of a Child, born about the time of that Convention, happened to be visited by two Pilgrims, Paul and John, whom they report to have been afterwards Martyrs at Rome. These Mendicants being repulsed at the Hall of Election, were notwithstanding kindly received by him, whereupon to return his Civility, they named his Child Ziemovitus, and departed. Afterwards, by the great Concourse of Electors, Provisions growing scarce at Cruswitz, and many applying themselves to Piastus for Relief, he furnished them all gratis, (but that not without being thought a Miracle, for 'twas believed the Blessing of those good Men remained upon him) and extended his Bounty much beyond his supposed Ability, which made 'em look upon him as a Man sent from the Gods to govern 'em, and therefore unanimously chose him for their Prince.  
This good Man, having thus obtained the 
His Virtues.  Principality, did not yet change his Life with his Condition; but his Power being increased, continued his Bounty comparatively. In his Reign there arose many intestine Disorders, all which he soon quieted rather by his Clemency than Severity. So being beloved by good Men, and respected by bad; and having removed his Court from Cruswitz, which he abominated for having been the Scene of 
His Death.  Popiel's wicked Life, to Gnesna, he died in the 120th Year of his Age.  
His Family reigned above 600 Years in Poland, nay, a Branch of 'em were 
* Hartknock. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 74.  Princes of Silesia a long while after, to the Year 1675, when George William, the last of that House, dying without Issue, the Dukedoms of Lignitz and Brieg in Silesia fell to the Emperor. In memory of this Piastus, when any Native ever after obtained the Crown of Poland, they called him a Piasto. He was succeeded by his Son  

Ziemovitus. 861.  ZIEMOVITUS by his Wife Repicha, a ●●rave and warlike Prince. This Duke had considerable Advantages by having the Administration of the Government long before his Father's Death, who for some time was super●●nnuated. He obtained great Conquests over the Hungarians, Moravians, and Germans, and 
His Wars.  was the 
* Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 1. p. 15.  first that brought the Polish Army to a Discipline, by instituting Generals, Colonels, Captains, and other Subaltern Officers among them. He regained what the Popiels ●●ost, and besides, considerably enlarged his Dominions by new Conquests.  

His Character.  He was a Person of a boundless Resolution, seemed destined for War 
† Florus Polon. cap. 12. p. 22.  (being able to undergo the greatest Fatigues) and consequently was exceedingly admired and beloved by his Subjects. He died at Gnesna, was buried 
His Death.  there, and was succeeded by his Son  

Lescus IU. 892.  LESCUS IU. who being elected young, was under the Care of Governors for some time. He was of a quiet and peaceable Disposition, 
His Character.  inclined rather to Peace than War, and contented to preserve what his Father had left him, without ever aiming to enlarge his Dominions. He died in the Year 913, and was 
His Death.  succeeded by his Son  

Ziemovistus. 913. His Character.  ZIEMOVISTUS, who reigned 51 Years. This Prince was much of the same Temper with his Father, there having been no Wars in his time. He had but one Son ●●ecislaus I. who being born blind, was miracu●●ously restored to his sight about the Age of seven Years, when he was about to have his Head shaved according to the Pagan Custom; which gave occasion to the Magis of that Kingdom, to prognosticate that he should be the Light of Poland, which, not long after his Election, 
His Death.  came to pass. Ziemovistus died, and was buried at Gnesna, and his Son  

Miecislaus I. 964.  MIECISLAUS I. came to the Crown next. He had seven Wives at a time, yet could have no Children by them, which opened a way 
How the Poles became Christians.  for the Christian Faith to enter Poland; for there being then several Christians wand'ring up and down that Country to convert those Pagans, they came to this Duke, and told him he could never have any Issue till he had turned Christian; which Miecislaus harkening to, immediately put away all his Wives, and 
His Christian Wife.  married Dambrawca Daughter to Boleslaus Duke of Bohemia, on condition to turn Christian and be baptised. Whereupon Pope John XIII. sent Cardinal Aegidius with a great number of Priests into Poland, to preach the Gospel there, which before had been altogether unknown in that Country.  
This Duke erected the Archbishoprics of Gnesna and Cracow, with several Bishoprics. In the mean while Miecislaus had a Son called Bolesl●●us, which mightily augmented his Zeal to oblige his Subjects to be converted: 
* Cromerus▪ lib. 3. p. 43. Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 70. Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 2. p. 19  for he caused a Law to be made, that while any part of the Gospel was reading at Mass, every Man should half draw his Scimitar, to testify their forwardness to defend that Faith.  

His Wars.  This Duke had Wars with Vlodimirus▪ Duke of Russia, to whom he lost Premislia and other Towns. He sent Lambert Archbishop of Cracow to Rome, to obtain leave of Pope Benedict VII. for the Princes of Poland to be styled Kings, but was refused, this Pontiff not being yet disposed to grant that Favour. He buried Dambrawca, and afterwards married Judith Daughter of Jesse Prince of Hungary, and was succeeded by his Son  

Boleslaus Chrobry. 999.  BOLESLAUS CHROBRY, a virtuous Prince, who was elected in the Year 999. and 
* Dubravius lib. 6. Hist. Bohem. p. 49. & Albert. Cranzius lib. 2. cap. 36. Kadlubkon. lib. 2. Chron. Epist. xi. p. 130.  after some Years reign by Consent of the Pope, was dignified with the Title of King by 
Created first King 1005.  the Emperor Otho III. who also remitted the Pretensions his Predecessors had to Poland as being Emperors of the Romans, and this in consideration of a kind Entertainment made him by Boleslaus in his Pilgrimage, on account of his Health, to the Tomb of St. Adalbert Bishop of Prague, who was martyred by some Pagans to whom he offered to preach the Christian Faith. Of these Barbarians Boleslaus bought his Body, and caused it to be buried at Gnesna, whither great numbers from all parts came to pay their Devotion at his Shrine.  
The Emperor Otho also at the same time married his Niece Rixa to Boleslaus his young Son Miecislaus, who succeeded his Father in the Kingdom. To confirm his being crowned King by Otho the Emperor, it would not be amiss to recite part of an old Epitaph written upon him; 
Ob famam bonam tibi contulit Otto Coronam,  
Propter Luctamen sit tibi salus. Amen.   

* Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 2. p. 22.  This King was surnamed Chrobry (signifying in Polish Acute) from the Quickness and Excellency of his Parts. Boleslaus made Bohemia, Moravia and Prussia tributary to Poland. 
His Wars.  He also declared War against the Saxons, who made Incursions into Pomerania, which was then governed by Lescus iii Family. He 
Twelve Senators Assistants.  likewise instituted twelve Senators to assist him in the Government. This King's Death was so sincerely regretted, that for a Year's time there was no Mirth nor Splendour in Poland. 
† Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 71.  This Prince was of an undaunted 
His Character.  Spirit, though withal modest, courteous and endearing. Both Boleslaus and his Father lie buried in the middle of the Cathedral Church 
His Death.  of Posnan, whose Tombs I have there seen. His Son  

Miecislaus II. 1025.  MIECISLAUS II. being about 35 Years old was elected next, being crowned by Hippolytus Archbishop of Gnesna. He degenerated in all respects from his Father, and lost most of those Conquests which he had added 
His Wars.  to the Crown. To him the Bohemians and ●●avians refused to pay Tribute; yet he ●●ued Pomerania, which belonged of right he Polish Crown. He was a Person very ●●y and stupid, and chose rather to be 
His Character.  ●●ed by his Queen and Companions than Council, which made him soon slighted and ●●is'd both by his Friends and Enemies: Yet reigned almost nine Years, and lived forty 〈◊〉 'Tis said he died mad, and left but 
His Death.  Son,  

Casimir I. 10●●4.  CASIMIR I. who being elected young, his ●●ther Rixa officiated the Regency during 
Queen Regent.  Minority. This King was not chosen with●● much difficulty, for many of the Electors, ●●ing he might follow his Father's steps, vi●●ously opposed him at first: Also the Poles ●●re dissatisfied with his Mother's Admi●●ration for several Reasons, among which 〈◊〉 was, her robbing the Treasury, and afterwards flying with her Son to her Brother ●●sar in Saxony.  
This young Prince being sent afterwards his Mother to study at Paris, became a Bedictin Monk at the Abbey of ●●luncy in France. the mean time the Poles, having no body to ●●eside in their Government, had great Dis●●sions among them; and therefore earnestly entreated the Pope to dispense with Casi●●r's Vow, that he might return to his Throne, schich they at length obtained upon 
* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 71.  Agreeent, that for each Head, except those of the obility and Clergy, they would contribute early a farthing to maintain a Lamp perpetually burning in St. Peter's Church at R●● and moreover, for ever after cause their H●● to be shaved about their Ears like Mo●● (which is practised to this day) as like●● stand in a white Surplice while Mass was ●●ciating 
Casimir recalled.  on all Holidays: upon these Conditor they had their King again; but when he ●● crowned I could never learn.  
He entered into an Alliance with Jaro●● 
His Marriage.  Duke of Russia, Son to Vlodomirus, and 〈◊〉 ryed his Sister Mary afterwards, called Do●●neva, whose Mother was the Princess 〈◊〉 Sister to Basil and Constantine, Emperoun Constantinople.  
He conquered the Province of Maso●● 
His Wars.  where now lies Warsaw, and defeated ●● Army of Maslaus, than Duke of that Co●●try; who retiring among the neighbour●● Barbarians, not long after returned 〈◊〉 greater Force, and ravaged Masovia ●● along to the Vistula, but was soon met 〈◊〉 overthrown a second time by Casimir; wh●● flying to his Friends, as he thought, that 〈◊〉 assisted him, they took, flayed, and fastened 〈◊〉 to an exceeding high Cross, saying, 
* Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. ●●. p. 34.  That was but just that he should be exalted whose Action was so boundless. Afterwards Casimir bei●● mindful of the Benefits he formerly receiv●● in the Abbey of Clunie, sent thither great Pr●●sents and Offerings.  
At length this good King having settled h●● 
His Death and Issue.  Kingdom in its former Tranquillity, died, and left three Sons, Boleslaus, Vladislaus, and Mi●●cistaus, and one Daughter Suentochna. He was ●●y'd at Posnan in the Year 1058.  

Boleslaus II. 1059.  BOLESLAUS II. his Son, surnamed the d, succeeded him, who reigned 23 Years. n the beginning of his Reign he had Wars 
His Wars.  ●●h the Hungarians, Bohemians, Russians and ●●ssians, all caused by the protecting of three ●●les. He vigorously maintained the Cause Bela Prince of Hungary, who was then mar●●d to his Aunt, and banished by King An●●. Whereupon he dethroned Andrew, and ●●wn'd Bela King of Hungary, notwithstand●● the considerable Succours sent to Andrew ●● of Germany and Bohemia. Afterwards, re●●ning into Poland, he married Viseslava, 
His Marriage.  ughter and Heiress of the Duke of Russia, by am he had that Dukedom for a Portion.  

* Hartknoch. lib. 〈◊〉 cap. 2. p. 73.  Towards the latter end of his Reign he came very dissolute and lewd; oppressed the ●●ple with extraordinary and insupportable xes; took away publicly gentlemen's dies to satisfy his Lust; could not endure ●● that took notice of his Irregularities; wished such as complained of his Tyrannical 
His Vices.  government, and at length killed Stanislaus ●●zepanovius Bishop of Cracow, for refusing ●● the Sacrament of the Altar; the manner which was thus: Boleslaus continuing in enormous Crimes and Extravagancies, this odd Man earnestly entreated him to amend Life; but perceiving his Obstinacy, only he refused him the Communion: Which s Prince being highly offended at, watched an opportunity to revenge; and a little while after, as the Bishop was officiating at Mass, he gave him such a blow with his Sabre, that he made his Brains fly against the Wall; and afterwards his Guards entering, cut the good Bishop to pieces. Hereupon he was soon pursued with Vatican Thunder, and consequently rendered odious to his Subjects: Wherefore fearing some Conspiracy might be 
His Flight out of the Kingdom.  raised against him, he left his Kingdom, and retired with his Son Miecislaus, which he had by his Queen Viseslava, to Ladislaus King of Hungary, where 'tis reported, that out of 
His Death.  mere Madness he afterwards killed himself.  
This Bishop Stanislaus was Canonised by Pope Gregory VII. and has all along from thence 
Patron of Poland.  been received for the Patron of Poland. The Pope also excommunicated the whole Country, and Boleslaus his Successors were for a 
Title of K▪ ceases.  considerable time 
* Hartknoch. lib. I. cap. 2. p. 40.  deprived of the Title of Kings. Next came  

Uladislaus I. 1082.  ULADISLAUS HERMANNUS, Brother to Boleslaus, to be elected; who being afraid of the Pope, or else fearing his Brother's return, would only accept of the Title of 
† Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 4. p. 45.  Prince. He recalled his Nephew Miecislaus, who died in six Years after. He built many Churches and Monasteries, all which he richly endowed.  
This Prince also brought over the rebellious 
His Wars.  Pomeranians and Prussians, and defeated likewise the Army of Vratislaus Prince of Bohemia, whom the Emperor Henry IV. had dignified with the Character of King, giving him moreover a Right over Poland, though he had no Title to dispose of it, his Predecessor Otho III. when he crowned Boleslaus I. King of Poland, having renounced both for himself and his Successors all Claim to that Kingdom. Nay, I heard the Poles themselves say that this was rather a piece of Civility in Otho, than any Obligation upon them, their Country having never been conquered by any Foreigner, not even by the Romans themselves.  

His Marriage.  He married Judith, Daughter of Vratislaus King of Bohemia, by whom he had Boleslaus III. surnamed Krivoustus, or the Wry-mouthed; and afterwards by a Daughter of the Emperor Henry IU. he had three Daughters. He died 
His Death.  in the fiftieth Year of his Age, was buried at Ploscow, and succeeded by his Son  

Boleslaus III. 1103.  BOLESLAUS III. surnamed Krivoustus, or the Wry-mouthed.  
He was the most warlike and successful Prince that Poland ever had, and at length subdued his Bastard Brother Sbigneius that rebelled 
His Wars.  against him, whom at last he was forced to cause to be 
* Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 4. p. 60.  murdered. But of all others, his Contest with the Emperor Henry V. is most famous, which is as follows.  
This Emperor having declared War against Colomannus King of Hungary, and engaged the Bohemians on his side, Boleslaus joined Colomannus, and to make a strong Diversion entered Bohemia, and destroyed the greatest part of that Country; whereupon, to be revenged on Boleslaus, the Emperor surprised the Provinces of Silesia and Marchia, which were then in the hands of the Poles, and had been absolute Master of them had not Boleslaus speedily marched with an Army to oppose him; who finding his Enemies much superior in number, at first thought it better to compose the matter amicably, and therefore sent an Ambassador to treat of Peace; to which the Emperor, thinking he had the Advantage, would by no means condescend, except upon very dishonourable Terms for the Poles. 
* Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 4. p. 55.  And hereupon leading Scarbicus the Ambassador to see his Treasure, he told him, that that (pointing to his Gold) would bring the Poles to what Terms he pleased: at which Scarbicus being highly affronted, took off a Gold Ring from his Finger, and throwing it into the Treasury, said, Whatever be your Imperial Majesty's Opinion, I do not question but the Polish Iron (meaning their Swords) will prove as good Metal as the Germane Gold. Which said, he immediately took his leave, and returning to his Master, acquainted him with his Negotiation; which the haughty Pole highly resenting, resolved to hazard a Battle, which he did, and by the Bravery of his Army obtained a signal Victory in the Dogsfield near Breslaw chief City of Silesia: whereupon the Emperor immediately struck up a Peace with him, gave him 
His Marriage.  his Sister Adleida in Marriage, and his Daughter Christina to his young Son Vladislaus. This Prince forced the Pomeranians to the Christian Faith, which they had often rejected before. The Poles all this while were in possession of Silesia, but afterwards the Kings of Bohemia conquered it, and therefore it consequently now is under the Emperor.  

* Hartknoch. lib. ●●. cap. 2. p. 74.  It is reported of this Prince, that he had fought forty seven Battles with success, except 
His Valour and Success.  one only▪ with the Red Russians, which was merely lost through the Cowardice of a Woievod of Cracovia, to whom the King after the Fight sent a Hare-Skin and Spinning-wheel for Recompense. Nevertheless, this one Defeat stuck so close to him that he soon after died, leaving four Sons, among whom 
His Death and Issue.  he divided his Kingdom. This King performed a great many more memorable Actions, which, my Lord, because they might be too tedious to insert here, I have omitted.  

† Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 4. p. 72.  
His Character.  He was of an undaunted Spirit, a great despiser of Danger, and no less an observer of Truth and Right; very liberal and generous upon the smallest Occasions, and moreover endued with singular Clemency and Modesty. He was further very ambitious of Glory, but at the same time no Enemy to Peace, though he is said to have been trained up to War from his very Cradle. To  

Uladislaus 11. 1140.  ULADISLAUS, surnamed the Driveler, his eldest Son, he left the Supreme Power, which was confirmed, and he elected in the Year 1140, but reigned only six Years: and to the other three he gave only some separate Provinces, which afterwards was the occasion of great Disorders in Poland; for the elder Brother Vladislaus pretending to dispossess 
Persecutes his Brothers.  the other three, turned his Brother Boleslaus out of the Palatinates of Ploskow and Masovia, and his Brother Henry out of the Province of Sendomir, who both retired to their third Brother that governed Posnania.  

* Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 7. p. 73.  Vladislaus had always with him a Nobleman, call d Peter Dunin, whom taking out one day to hunt, they happened to be so late abroad, that they were obliged to lie all Night in a Wood; where, for Diversion, the King began to joke with his Companion after this manner. Dunin (quoth he) I. believe your Wife lies more at ease to Night with the Abbot Scrinnen, than we do: To which Dunin, forgetting himself, tartly replied, And it may be your Majesty's does the same with Dobessus: Who, it seems, was a handsome Fellow about Court that his Queen Christina loved. This Answer so nettled the King, that he afterwards employed the same Dobessus to be revenged 
A severe Revenge.  on Dunin, which he effected by pulling out his Tongue and Eyes.  
Hereupon the People perceiving how cruelly Vladislaus persecuted his own Brothers, and at the same time how ill he treated his Subjects, began to be daily more and more disaffected to him; whereby his Brother's Party greatly increasing, he was beaten by them as he was going to besiege Posnan. Wherefore discovering new Factions hourly appearing against him, and fearing some ill Fate from a universal Hatred, he timely withdrew into Germany to the Emperor Conrade III. Cousin 
His Flight out of the Kingdom.  German to his Queen Christina, who several times endeavoured to restore him, but all in vain; for his Brother Boleslaus Crispus having got possession of the Crown, Vladislaus was forced to compound for Silesia only, which afterwards fell to the Principality of Bohemia, and has ever since been out of the possession of the Poles. This Prince lies buried at Attenburg, 
His Death.  a City of Germany in Alsace. Vladislaus with his Son having abdicated the Crown of Poland, his second Brother,  

Boleslaus IU. 1146.  BOLESLAUS CRISPUS, or the Frizzled, was elected in the Year 1146, and reigned to the Year 1175; yet the Emperor Conrade did what he could to restore Vladislaus. To effect which, he first sent Ambassadors into Poland, but to no purpose: Then he resolved to make War with the Poles, but deferred it till his Expedition against Asia was over; to facilitate which he had obtained leave to pass through Boleslaus his Dominions to the Euxine Sea: But at his return being constantly solicited by Vladislaus and his Queen, he marched with a powerful Army against Poland; yet 
His Wars.  what with Delays, Stratagems, and Ambuscades, he was so fatigued by the Poles that he could do nothing, till at last he was called home to appease some Intestine Broils in his own Dominions, which having effected, he soon after died. His Successor Frederic Barberossa also espoused Vladislaus his Cause, but not being able to do any thing in his Favour by Ambassadors, he marched with a numerous Army against the Poles, which they likewise harassed and wearied out, till they had obliged that Emperor to strike up a Peace with 'em, he being in War at the same time against Milan; by which it was agreed, that Boleslaus should remit Silesia to Vladislaus, whose Posterity afterwards divided it into several Dutchies, till at last it came to the Empire. This great Province, my Lord, as I observed in my Journey through it, is one of the most fertile and plentiful Countries in all Germany.  
Boleslaus began another War against the Prussians for refusing to pay him Tribute, and forced them to this Compliance, that they should submit in case he left 'em to their Religion; but otherwise they boldly declared, that they would rather die than become Christians again. Whereupon Boleslaus was forced to grant them Liberty of Conscience; yet they soon revolted, and by a 
* Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 8. p. 78.  Stratagem entirely routed the Polish Army, and 
His Death.  killed his Brother Henry. This King died not long after, and was buried at Cracow.  

Miecislaus III. 1174.  MIECISLAUS, surnamed the Old, Brother to Boleslaus, succeeded him, being elected in the Year 1174, and reigned only to 1178. He was called the Old from his great Sagacity and Prudence in his Youth. His Covetousness 
A bad Policy.  induced him to hoard up great Sums of Money by oppressing the Gentry and People with unreasonable Taxes, and selling all Employments, though against the Constitutions of the Kingdom. This extreme Avarice brought him to be generally hated by the Clergy, Nobility and People: whereupon 
* Ib. p. 80. & Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 5. c. 9 p. 88  Gedeon Bishop of Cracow endeavoured several times to incline him to pity his Subjects, and despise Money, since he had no need of it; but he would by no means hearken to his Advice, wherefore this Bishop concerted together with the Gentry to dethrone him, and remit 
dethroned.  the Crown to Casimir his Brother, who more deserved it, which they effectually did after some little Bloodshed.  
Here we may observe, that Covertousness is the greatest Vice that any Prince can be guilty of, especially a King of Poland, whose Subjects, as your Lordship doubtless has observed, are generally liberal even to Extravagance.  
At first Casimir refused the Crown offered him, alleging it was his Brother's Right, and that such an Alteration might occasion Civil Wars, which he by no means had any mind to be the Author of. But when they unanimously declared they would have no other King, and could never more obey Miecislaus,  

Casimir II. 1178.  CASIMIR II. consenting to accept of the Government, was elected in the Year 1178, and reigned to 1195. He was surnamed the Just, being altogether unlike his Brother, as appears by the following Particular. 
† Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 75. Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 9 p. 82.  Being at play with a Gentleman of his, named Conarius, whilst he was Prince of Sendomir, and having won all his Adversary's Money, the Gentleman in a Passion struck him over the Face, and fled; but next day being brought before him, was adjudged by every body to have deserved Death for his Insolence. Not 
A commendable Example.  at all (replied the good Prince) for being affected with his Loss, and not having it in his Power to revenge himself on Fortune, it is no wonder if he fell foul of her Favourite: and moreover, rather blamed himself for condescending to play with him, and likewise thanked him for putting him in mind by that Blow, how unworthy it was for a Prince to bestow his time so ill: And lastly, as a further. Argument of his dissenting from his Brother's Principles, he returned the Courtier all his Money again.  

Miecislaus endeavours to be restored.  Miecislaus being excluded, retired with his Princess and Children to Ratisbon to the Emperor Frederic his Kinsman, who yet could do him no good, he being engaged at that time in War both in Italy and Asia; therefore his next Recourse was to his Brother's Clemency. This so far wrought upon Casimir, that he made a Speech to the Senate to recall him, but was extremely blamed by them for offering to prefer a private Kindness to the Public Safety. All this while Miecislaus was little sensible of his Brother's good Nature, though he afterwards underhand endeavoured again to get him restored.  
Casimir begun his Reign by easing his Subjects of the Taxes his Brother had imposed upon 'em, and restraining the Power of exorbitant Magistrates. While he was absent in Russia, on account of composing some Differences, by instigation of Miecislaus, some of the Nobles conspired against him, and endeavoured to reinstate Miecislaus; which the better to bring about and satisfy the People, they pretended that Casimir was poisoned in Russia. Hereupon Miecislaus readily arrives in Poland, and was received every where but in the Castle of Cracow, which Bishop Fulco held out against him. Of all this Casimir being soon informed, by Assistance of the Russians, overcame his Brother, and gave both him and his Army their Lives; which Goodness of his at length so wrought upon Miecislaus, that he never after aimed at the Crown. 
Submits.   
After Casimir was well settled, being not unmindful of the rebellious Prussians, nor of the Death of his Brother Henry, he marched with so great fury against them, that he had regard neither for Man, Woman nor Child, but put great numbers of all sorts to the Sword, and burnt and plundered their Country to that degree, that at last they quietly submitted to the absolute Dominion of Poland.  

Dantzic made a City.  This King made a City of 
* Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 10. p. 85.  Dantzic in Prussia, which before was only a poor Fisher-Town on the Baltic Sea. He lies buried at Cracow, having left two Sons Lescus and Conrade, 
His Death and Issue.  and one Daughter Adleida. He lived to the Age of six and fifty Years. After his Death the Poles elected his Son  

Lescus V. 1195.  LESCUS V. surnamed the White, in the Year 1195, who being very young had for Guardians, his Mother Helena, with the 
Under Guardians.  Bishop and Palatin of Cracovia. In the mean time his Uncle Miecislaus being yet alive 
His Wars.  came with a powerful Army of Poles and Silesians to dethrone him, and gained a bloody Battle over the Palatin of Cracovia, who commanded Lescus his Army. Hereupon he immediately dispatched Ambassadors to Helena, to represent to her his unquestionable Right to the Crown, his Strength; the Disorder among Lescus his Tutors, who being too young, was not able of himself to govern; the great Advantages he had obtained in the late Battle; and lastly, his great Party in the Kingdom. He moreover desires Helena to make him Guardian over her Son, and promises to adopt him for his own, to leave him the Succession after his Death, and that he will do nothing but what shall be according to the Constiutions of the Kingdom. All these 
dethroned.  Proffers having been throughly weighed by 
Miecislaus III. restored, 1199.  the Queen and Council: At last Miecislaus was recalled a second time in the Year 1199. after having taken a solemn Oath to perform all his Promises. But being once reinthroned he soon forgot his Oath, and fell to confiscating several of his Subjects Estage, and giving 'em to others, saying, 
* Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 6. p. 99  That a King was no longer obliged to keep his Oath, than when it was neither safe nor beneficial for him to break it. Hereupon 
dethroned.  the Palatin of Cracovia seizes on the 
Lescus V. restored.  City of Cracow, and receives Lescus a second time, whilst Miecislaus, being then absent, by all the Intrigues imaginable endeavoured to be restored: Whereupon he flattered the People, persuading them that Lescus his Party had cast false Aspersions upon him; and that if he did any thing contrary to his Oath, he was merely betrayed to it by the malicious Persuasions of his pretended Friends. By these and such like fair words he julls asleep the credulous People, and gains their Affections the third time: Whereupon he sends to the Queen to inform her that Nicholas Palatin of Cracovia had been the Author of the late Disturbances, and therefore wills her to remove him from Court, and receive himself again; which she, pitying his unfortunate Case, even in prejudice of her own Son, was inclined to do, and would therefore admit of no Justification from the Palatin. Whereupon this Person being a Man of great Authority in the Kingdom, goes and joins Miecislaus; many follow his Example, and in short, the Queen was quickly forced to recall Miecislaus a third time 
Miecislaus reinthroned, 1202.  in the Year 1202. When being reinthroned, he requited Queen Helena for her Services by seizing upon the Territory of Voslicia, and three other Places in Sendomir, which of right belonged to her: and being about to do the same to several others, he was prevented by a sudden Death in the seventy third Year of 
His Death.  his Age, leaving two Sons, Otho and Vladislaus Lasconogus.  
After Miecislaus his Death, the greater part voted for Lescus V. that was still alive; but Nicholas Palatin of Cracovia, and the Bishop of Cracow his Brother, would by no means consent to it 
* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 75, 76. Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 6. p. 102, 103.  unless Lescus would banish out of the Kingdom Govoric Palatin of Sendomir, of whom they were both very jealous. Lescus answered, He would not buy a Kingdom (which by right was his own) by doing an Injury to his Friend. Hereupon by the Bishop and Palatin's Interest he was put by, and  

Uladislaus Lasconogus. 1203.  ULADISLAUS LASCONOGUS, that is, Thin-foot, elected in the Year 1203. But this good Prince, considering Lescus his Right, after 
Surrenders his Crown.  three Years Reign, voluntarily surrendered to him, when  

Lescus V. re-established. 1206.  LESCUS was received the third time, in the Year 1206, and reigned to the Year 1226. Under his Reign the Poles heard first of the Tartars, a barbarous Nation that came from the Caspian Sea and Mount Imaus in Asia, who made Eruptions into Taurica Chersonesus, and the Frontiers of Podolia and Russia, and have ever since been most inveterate Enemies to Poland. Lescus had a Brother called Conrade, to whom he gave the Provinces of Masovia and Cujavia, and made one Suentopelus Governor of Pomerania, whereof one was Author of Lescus' Death, and the other of most blood Wars in Poland: For this Suentopelus thinking to make himself absolute in Pomerania, employed People to 
* Guagnini p. 92.  murder Lescus, which they not long after effected accordingly, 
Murdered in a Bath.  when this good Prince was in a Bath: Whereupon, after his Death, Suentopelus declared himself Duke of Pomerania and Conrade, and 
† Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 2. p. 94. & Herburt. de Fulstin. p. 111.  called into Poland the Knights of the Teutonic 
Teutonic Knights called into Poland.  Order, (who were then banished out of Syria by the Saracens, and settled in Germany) to help him against the Prussians, who were wont to make frequent Incursions into his Country, to whom for Recompense he gave the Territory of Culm, and some other small Places, on condition they should act vigorously against the Prussians; but after they had conquered those People, they were to resign Culm, etc. and have the half of their Conquests to themselves. These Auxiliary Troops proved afterwards very pernicious to Poland, having been the Cause of many bloody Wars in that Country. This Agreement between the Knights of the Cross (as they were likewise called) and Conrade, was approved and confirmed by Pope Gregory IX. in the Year 1228. In a short time these Knights effected what they undertook. This Lescus lies buried in the Cathedral at Cracow, and left behind him a young Son,  

Bloeslaus V. 1228.  BOLESLAUS V. surnamed the chaste, whose Guardians he ordered to be his Brother Conrade, and Henry Duke of Breslaw his Cousin. This young Prince, notwithstanding the many Intrigues and Cabals Conrade formed against him, who designed to make himself King, was elected in the Year 1228, and reigned to the Year 1278. He married Cunigunda, Daughter 
His Marriage.  to Bela King of Hungary; but after they were bedded, he had not the courage to consummate the Marriage, and therefore by mutual Consent both made a Vow of Chastity.  

In●●ad of Tartars.  
* Ib. p. 96. & Herburt. de Fulstin. p. 116.  'Twas in this Prince's Reign the Tartars made their first Eruptions into Poland, whereof there were three at several times. In the first they ravaged all the Country about Lublin and Russia, and carried away an incredible Number of Prisoners with great Riches. In the second they returned with more fury, and not being contented with the Plunder of Poland, spread likewise all over Silesia, where near Lignitz they entirely defeated the Confederate Army of the Christians; wherein Henry Duke of Breslaw, Boleslaus Son to the 
His Troubles.  Duke of Moravia, Pompo Great Master of the Teutonick Order, and several other Persons of Note were killed. 
† Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 76. Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 7. p. 119.  The Number of dead Bodies was so incredible, that they filled nine great Sacks with the Christians Ears, cutting off each Head but one, after the same manner as Hannibal at the Battle of Cannae filled several Bushels with the Rings cut off from the Fingers of the Roman Knights only, that were there killed. Boleslaus had not the courage to march in Person against the Tartars when they came a second time to invade him, but retired with 
Retires into Hungary.  his Court into Hungary, and thereby left his Subjects to the Mercy of their Enemies. Which base Action the Poles being extremely offended at, intended to have elected a new King; whereupon Boleslaus, Son to Henry Duke of Breslaw that was killed in the Battle afterwards, was named; but Conrade vigorously opposing him, and pretending to have more Right, the Gentry, to prevent Civil Wars, recalled their former King Bolestaus from 
Returns.  Hungary, and in the mean time Conrade died. Not long after the Tartars, together with the Lithuanians, which were hitherto Pagans, made Incursions a third time into Poland, when they pillaged the Country up as far as Cracow; which City, meeting with no body in it to resist'em, they both plundered and burnt. Afterwards they went to Vratislaw, which they found 
His Troubles and Wars.  ready fired to their hands; for the Townsmen having had timely notice of the coming of the Barbarians, had got all their Treasure together and fled, whilst the Soldiers, distrusting the Strength of the Place, and searing it might become a Prey to the Enemy, set fire to it, and retired into the Castle; which having greatly incensed the Tartars, they laid Siege to the Castle with all imaginable Vigour, and would soon have taken it, had they not been frighted from before it by a Prodigy. During this, Boleslaus marched in Person against the Lithuanians, whom he overthrew, and killed their Duke Mindacus. The Prussians likewise being yet Pagans, sided with the Lithuanians, when the Teutonick Order, which was then settled in Prussia, called to their Assistance 
* Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 13. p. 103.  Ottocarus King of Bohemia, who quickly reduced the Prussians; and the better 
Koningsberg built.  to keep them in Awe, built a Fort called Koningsberg or Royal Hill.  
Boleslaus was a pious and good Prince, and lies buried at Cracow in a Monastery founded 
His Death.  by himself. He built other Religious Houses, and reigned near 50 Years; and having made a Vow of Chastity, left no Children: Wherefore his Uncle's Son, by the Father,  

Lescus VI 1279.  LESCUS VI surnamed the Black, succeeded him, being elected in the Year 1279, and reigned only to the Year 1289. In the beginning of his Reign the Russians, summoned by the Lithuanians and Tartars, made Incursions into 
His Wars.  Poland under Command of Leo their Duke; but were defeated, first by Varsias the King's General, and afterwards were beat by the King himself out of a Village where they had entrenched themselves, which from that 
City of Leopol, whence so called.  General's Name has been since called 
* Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 8. p. 136.  Leopol, and is now a sine City. Upon this Defeat the Enemy were forced to retire with great Loss. Not long after they returned again, but more to their prejudice than in the former Irruption: for then, though their Army consisted of a Prodigious Number of Men, and an innumerable Company of Mastiff Dogs trained up to War; yet were they a second time routed by Lescus, insomuch that a certain People called Jazyges, who then inhabited a part of Lithuania, and came only to plunder in Poland, were so totally destroyed, that there remains nothing left of 'em except the Name. But at Length the Tartars making another Irruption, had better success; for they not only vanquished Lescus, but also carried away, besides Men, married Women and Children, above twenty thousand Maids into Captivity.  

An Insurrection.  After this Defeat, an Insurrection was raised against Lescus by Paul Bishop of Cracow; for that under the Reign of Boleslaus the chaste, Lescus had kept him about a Month in Prison. Hereupon, Conrade Duke of Masovia was invited to accept the Crown; who, coming into Poland for that purpose, was met at Sendomir by General Varsias, Paul the Bishop, and a great Number of the Nobility. Upon this, Lescus perceiving himself forsaken, fled into 
He retires into Hungary.  Hungary to King Vladislaus; but the City of Cracow still bearing a respect to him, continued Loyal, and prepared to sustain a Siege: Whereupon having been summoned to surrender, their Answer was, That they could not be trea●●berous to their lawful Sovereign Lescus, but would defend his Right to the last drop of their Blood. Hereat the Nobles being grievously nettled, resolved to sit down with their Army before that City; but, upon their Approaches, finding it empty, the Inhabitants being retired into the Castle, they set sire to it, thinking by those means to bring the Enemy sooner to a Compliance. This done, Lescus having obtained a considerable Army of King Vladislaus, was marching directly towards Cracow, to relieve his besieged Friends; when meeting with Conrade, who came to oppose him, near the River Raba, he entirely routed 
Returns with success.  him, and forced him back again into his own Country. This happened about the Year 1285.  

His Death.  This Prince died, and was buried in the Monastery of the Trinity at Cracow.  
Lescus the VI leaving no Children, his Kingdom consequently fell into great Distractions; for Vladislaus Locticus his Brother seized on the Palatinate of Siradia, and Boleslaus Duke of Ploskow, Brother to Conrade Duke of Masovia, on the Palatinates of Cracovia and Sendomir; but this latter was soon dispossessed by  

Henry 1. 1290.  HENRY Duke of Breslaw, surnamed the Honest, of the Family of Piastus, in the Year 1290; who was likewise not long after turned out by Locticus, but soon restored, and reigned in quality of King for the space of five Years, though I do not read he was crowned. He appointed Premislus Duke of Great Poland, for his Successor, being of the Family of Piastus likewise. This Premislus also had the Province of Pomerania left him by Miescingus Prince of that Country.  

Premislus. 1296.  PREMISLUS, in the thirty eighth Year of his Age, was crowned King at Gnesna by James Swinka Archbishop of that City, in the 
Title of King restored.  Year 1296, which was an Honour that had not been 
* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 40.  done to any Prince of Poland before for above two hundred Years, since Boleslaus the Bold killed Stanislaus at the Altar; but Premislus did not long enjoy this Title, for seven Months after his Coronation, he is said to have been 
Murdered.  
† Florus Polon. lib. 2: cap. 15. p. 113. Guagnini Tom. 1. p. 97.  murdered by some Brandenburg Emissaries, that Marquis being afraid of this King who was Master of Pomerania which joined to his Country. He was buried among his Predecessors at Posnan. After the Murder of King Premislus,  

Uladislaus III. 1296.  ULADISLAUS LOCTICUS, (so called from the word 
𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁 Hartknoch. p. 77.  Lokiec, an Ell, having his Name from his low Stature) Brother of Lescus the Black, was chosen in the Year 1296, and reigned only four Years. He went upon an Expedition against the Silesians that were 
His Wars.  inclined to assist the Bohemians against him, who then pretended a Right to the Kingdom of Poland. These Locticus subdued, and having considerably ravaged their Country, returned home, where he afterwards gave himself up to a lewd and debauched Life, insomuch that 
His Vices.  he neglected the care of all Public Business, and minded nothing but his own private Pleasures. These his intolerable Vices brought upon him the Ill-will of his Subjects, insomuch that after three years' Reign they pronounced him unworthy of the Sceptre, and resolved to elect another. Hereupon Locticus being dethroned, 
dethroned.  they invite  

Winceslaus K. of Bohemia. 1300.  WINCESLAUS King of Bohemia to accept their Crown, who was married to Rixa, Daughter of King Premislus, and crowned King of Poland in the Year 1300, but reigned only to 1305. After he came to reign he persecuted Locticus, who hid himself for some time, but was forced at last to quit the Kingdom. When Winceslaus thus saw himself secure at home by the flight of Locticus, and after having put Bohemian Garrisons into the several Cities of Poland, which seemed very 
False Policy.  uneasy to that Nation, he thought it high time to go and settle Affairs in Bohemia.  
During this, Vladislaus Locticus having a considerable Party in the Kingdom, which daily increased on account of discontent against Winceslaus; and having got together several Troops out of Hungary, he marched directly 
His Wars.  towards Poland, hearing that the Bohemian Government was somewhat burdensome to that Nation. At first Locticus had considerable Advantage over the Bohemians, but by the Death of Winceslaus, which followed soon after, he had all the Success he could desire; for the Bohemians, who had possession of the Garrisons, finding themselves in a strange Country, and moreover hated and ill thought on by the People, were afraid of an Insurrection against 'em, and therefore made no great difficulty of surrendering to Locticus all those Cities and Towns they had possession of, as Cracow, Sendomir, etc. In the mean time young Winceslaus coming with an Army to dispute his Father's Kingdom with Locticus, was 
* Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 17. p. 118.  murdered in the Expedition, 'tis thought, by Orders of the Emperor Albert; and since his time the Bohemians have ever been governed by foreign Princes. Winceslaus King 
His Death.  of Poland and Bohemia died, and was buried at 
† Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 9 p. 147.  Prague in the Year 1305.  

Uladislaus IV. restored. 1305.  After the Death both of Winceslaus the Father and Son, Vladislaus Locticus was restored, almost by common Consent, in the Year 1305, and reigned to the Year 1333. And this they did, either because they thought he had had time to repent and mend his former Life, or by reason they were afraid of Civil Wars if they should elect any other. 
𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁 Ib. p. 148. & Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 18. p. 119.  Notwithstanding 
Meets with Difficulties.  the Palatinates of Posnania and Kalisch having a fresh Memory of his past dissolute Life, would never acknowledge him their King. Also the Governor of Pomerania, which then belonged to Poland, being bribed by the Marquis of Brandenburg, delivered up to him all the Cities of that Province, as likewise the City of Dantzic, except the Castle which the Governor thereof, one Bogussa, being truly loyal to his King, would by no means surrender.  

Teutonic Knights established in Prussia.  In these days the Knights of the Teutonic Order were fully settled in Prussia, being both very Strong and very Rich. They were established there by Agreement with Conrade, Brother to King Vladislaus Lasconogus, for assisting him against the Prussians when he was oppressed by them. They there built, some years before, the City of 
* Ib. p. 120.  Marienburg, appointed for 
City of Marienburg, when built.  Residence of their Great Masters. Here Locticus was obliged to crave their Aid against the Rebels of Pomerania and Dantzic, which they readily granted, on condition that half the Garrison of the Castle of Dantzic should be of their Troops, by which means they soon became Masters of the whole; for they afterwards not only turned the Poles out of the 
Teutonic Order troublesome to the Poles.  Castle, but both Brandenburghers and Pomeranians out of the City of Dantzic itself; and likewise under pretence of assisting the King of Poland, conquered all Pomerania for themselves; when being Masters thereof, they offered to buy the Title of Locticus for Money, which he refused. Then they offered the same Sum to the Marquis of Brandenburg to renounce his Right to that Province; which he, though he had no Title to sell, yet was wise enough to accept their Prosser.  
The Poles were very sensible of all these Affronts and Injustices offered 'em by the Teutonic Order; but before they proceeded to Revenge, they thought it advisable to 
* Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 18. p. 123.  acquaint the Pope therewith, who lived then at Avignon, who, after four years' Delays and Debates, ordered the Knights to give due fatisfaction to the Poles: but they having had four years' respite to fortify themselves, and to make strong Alliances with some Neighbouring Princes; and besides, having a very considerable Army on foot, answered his Holiness, That they had often done great Services for Poland; that that Kingdom owed them Sums of Money; and that they presumed that not only the Lands they were in possession of in Prussia and Pomerania, were lawfully theirs; but that also they thought the Poles obliged to give 'em either more Land or more Money to recompense the several Kindnesses they had done 
And therefore excommunicated by the Pope.  them. Hereupon the Pope excommunicates this Order; and the Poles, under command of their King, marched directly against 'em.  
Here Locticus made an eloquent Speech to 
Locticus his Speech to his Army.  his Army, representing the many Affronts and Injustices they had received from a little Sect of People, to which his Predecessors the Kings of Poland had out of mere Goodness given their Protection when banished from their own Country by the Saracens. Then he enlarged upon the Covetousness and Ambition of this Order, and concluded by encouraging his Men to fight bravely, and not suffer those to become their Masters, who were at first their Vassals. Hereupon the Poles, animated by this Speech of their King, though much inferior in Number to their Enemies, yet fought so fiercely and bravely, that they entirely routed the Teutonic 
Overthrows the Teuronic Order.  Order, and killed about twenty thousand of their Men, though they themselves have had the presumption to affirm that they did not lose above five or six hundred.  

* Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 18. p. 131.  Among the wounded, there was one Florianus Szari, Knight of that Order, who having his Belly opened with a Scymiter, and his Guts dropping out, which he held up with his hands; the King passing by, pitied him: Whereupon the Knight said to him, Sir, A Man in his Village suffers more than I do when he has bad Neighbours. The King admiring at this dying man's Thought, immediately caused his Surgeons to take care of him; and when he was well, gave him Land that had no bad Neighbours about it.  

>𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁 Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 9 p. 153. Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 77, 78.  This Vladislaus, it seems, not being throughly satisfied with Premislus his Right, to transmit the Title of King to his Posterity without leave of the Pope, sent an Ambassador to his Holiness to request a liberty for himself 
Is crowned, together with his Queen, by Order of the Pope.  and his Queen Hedwigis to be crowned, which was forthwith granted, and the Ceremony performed in the Cathedral of Cracow by the Archbishop of Gnesna, and other Bishops, in the Year 1320. The King long after died, and was buried at Cracow, in the Year 1333.  

Casimir III. 1333.  CASIMIR the Great succeeded his Father Locticus, being elected in the Year 1333, and 
Makes Peace with the Teutonic Knights.  reigned to the Year 1370. He made a Peace with the Teutonic Order, that was not at all advantageous or honourable to the Polish Nation, the Knights being thereby still to remain in possession of Prussia, Dantzic and Pomerania, notwithstanding the threatenings of the Pope, and his Bulls of Excommunication. This Casimir had no Children: He is the last Male of the Family of Piastus: Wherefore that the Crown might not go altogether out of his Family, before his Death he 
* Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 10. p. 166.  prevailed with the Poles to elect Charles King of Hungary his own Sister's Son; but he dying before Casimir, his Son Lewis was chosen. The Poles had several 
His Conquests.  times conquered Russia, but it was never enjoyed peaceably till Casimir's time; who having had better success than any of his Predecessors, annexed it as a Province to the Crown of Poland. The Province of Masovia was likewise conquered by him, and annexed to the Crown. 
† Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 19 p. 135.  The Poles had never hitherto any written Laws, and but very few made 
His other good Deeds.  till Casimir began to make Institutions, name Judges, create Magistrates, build Forts, and to establish a better Oeconomy in the Kingdom than any Prince before him. The Laws and Constitutions of the Teutonic Knights seemed very rational and political to him, having had a sensible Experience of the good Government of this Order for a considerable time: Wherefore he introduced their Laws into Poland, which have continued ever since, and are called the Magdeburg Laws.  

His Character.  This Casimir was a very lewd Prince, but withal exceeding Liberal and Just: He kept a Jewish Concubine, at whose request he granted great Privileges to that People: He gained so well the good Opinion and Affection of his Subjects, that he was styled the Father of the Poor; and a great many 
* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 78. Starovolseius Descript. Polon. p. 122.  Germans, who were oppressed by their own Princes, in his time came into Poland, and have ever since inhabited the Foot of the Carpathian Mountains. The Daughter of Boguslaus, Duke of Pomerania, was then married to the Emperor Charles IU. Casimir celebrated the Nuptials with great Splendour and Magnisicence at Cracow, where assisted Lewis King of Hungary, Sigismond King of Denmark, and Petrua King of Cyprus, with the Emperor, and many Princes of Germany, Poland, and other Countries.  
Valachia at that time was a kind of Republic of itself, having before had Governors, which they called Hospodars; the last of which being dead, and his Children aspiring to the same Dignity, Casimir sent an Army to support 
His Wars.  'em, but by an Ambush of the Null, placed in a Wood, was entirely defeated. Casimir died soon after this of a Fall from his 
His Death.  Horse, and was buried at Cracow. This King reigned thirty seven Years, and lived sixty. 
† Bizardiere Histoire des Dietes, p. 1. Guagnini Tom. 1. p. 102.  He was surnamed the Great (being the only Person that had had that Title among the Polish Princes) not because he had gained a great many Victories, but by reason of the many beautiful Structures and Fortresses he had built, as likewise of the many beneficial Laws and Constituions which he had made.  
Casimir, being the last King of the Family of Piastus, had caused his own Nephew by his Sister,  

Lewis King of Hungary, 1370.  LEWIS, King of Hungary, to be elected for his Successor during his Life-time, who was crowned accordingly in Poland in the Year 1370, and reigned 12 Years. The Poles were not extraordinarily well satisfied with him, being a Foreign Prince, and therefore 
Obliged to take an Oath.  obliged him before they would crown him, to take an 
* Radevicus lib. 1. cap. 3. p. 13.  Oath, not only to maintain their former Privileges, but also to enlarge 'em; for hitherto the Successors of Piastus had almost had an absolute Power in Poland, a great deal more than their present Kings have.  

Returns into Hungary.  After some time Lewis was forced to return into Hungary to settle some Affairs there, when he left the Administration of the Government, during his Absence, to his Mother Elizabeth. His going away occasioned great Troubles, for the Russians rebelled, and the Lithuanians made Incursions into the very Heart of Poland. The Poles also were divided among themselves; they could not endure to see their Towns in the hands of Hungarian Garrisons; and besides, they were so much displeased with their King's leaving 'em to the Government of his Mother, whom they neither loved nor esteemed, that they sent to acquaint him, that they thought it Honour enough for himself to govern Poland. All these Troubles and Distrusts soon obliged the King to return into Poland with a strong Army of Hungarians, where he first marched 
His Wars.  against the Rebel Russians, and subdued them; next against the Lithuanians, and obliged them to a Peace: soon after which he died, and was 
His Death,  buried at Belgrade in Hungary, in the 56th Year of his Age, having reigned 12 Years. He 
And Issue.  left two Daughters, but no Sons, one of which married to Sigismond the Emperor's Son, and the other, named Hedwigis, he left to succeed him in the Kingdom of Poland.  

* Chwalkowski singularia Polonica p. 20. Florus Polon. lib. 2. cap. 20. p. 145, 146. Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 11. p. 189, etc.  This Prince was very curious to know what Opinion People had of him, and was also exact in reforming the Faults they laid to his 
A commendable Example.  Charge. For this purpose he was wont to disguise himself, and inquire among the People how they liked their King, and what they thought amiss in him; and according to their Answers he redressed the Grievances suggested to him.  
My Lord, I have hitherto given you a succinct Account of the Family of Piastus; next I shall proceed to present your Lordship likewise with that of Jagello, being still a Continuation of Piastus his Family in the Line of a Daughter.  

Of the Family of Jagello.  
When Lewis King of Poland and Hungary died, his Daughter Hedwigis being with her Mother the Queen Dowager in Hungary, the Poles, though there were several Princes of the Race of Piastus left in Poland and Silesia, yet either because they did not think them deserving, or else by reason that they believed 'em engaged in their Enemy's Interests, sent a solemn Embassy for the young Princess  

Queen Hedwigis 1382.  HEDWIGIS, who soon came into Poland, with Cardinal Demetrius, the Bishop of Strigonia, and several others of the chief Nobility of Hungary. At her arrival the Poles received her with great Joy, Splendour and Magnificence; and the Archbishop of Gnesna, Bozenta, crowned her after the usual Ceremonies at Cracow, on the Feast of St. Hedwigis (always religiously observed in Poland) in the Year 1382, and she reigned alone four Years. This young Princess, being not yet married, 
Has several Suitors.  had several noble Suitors, among which Ziemovitus Duke of Masovia was the first, whom she refused; the next was William of Austria, who came in Person to court her: Him she liked, but the Senate of Poland would by no means consent to a Marriage with him, having always had a Maxim (which they never hitherto broke) that they would by no means admit any of that Family to their Crown, and this, fearing so powerful a Neighbour might one time or other find means to make himself Absolute in their Country. But at last Jagello great Duke of Lithuania had better Fortune, for he soon obtained her by the great 
Is married to Jagello, who becomes a Christian.  and advantageous Proffers he made the Poles. He first promised to embrace the Christian Religion with all his Country, who were before Fagans: Next to unite Lithuania to Poland, during his time, under the same form of Government; and lastly, that in case his Male Race failed, it should for ever after be annexed to that Kingdom. Hereupon Jagello was baptised, and takes upon him the Name of  

Jagello, or Uladislaus V. 1386.  ULADISLAUS V. and after having consummated the Marriage with Hedwigis, was consecrated by the Archbishop Bozenta in the Year 1386. and reigned 48 Years. Not long after his Coronation he went with Priests into Lithuania, 
Converts the Lithuanians.  and in a twelve Month's time converted all that Nation; but this not so much by their Preaching and Vigilance, as by his own exemplary Zeal and Persuasion. 
* Herb. de Fulst. l. 13. p. 207. Hartkn. l. 1. c. 2. p. 87.  After 
Found'st the University of Cracow.  this he erected the University of Cracow, which Casimir the Great had only begun, and sent to Prague in Bohemia for learned Men to instruct the Youth in all manner of Sciences, which had never before been taught in this Country. About this time Queen Hedwigis 
Hedwigis dies.  died, after having endowed the University, to encourage Learning.  

His Wars with the Teutonic Order.  This Prince had long Wars with the Teutonic Order, which then very much insulted over the Frontiers of his Kingdom; whereupon the Poles were not a little inclined to be revenged on this proud and powerful People. Now Poland not being alone sufficient to withstand 'em, Jagello made up a considerable Army of Poles, Lithuanians, Russians and Tartars, with all which he marched directly towards them, who were got ready to receive him with a Body of about 140000 Men; yet notwithstanding, after a long and doubtful Fight, the Poles happened to have the better, and entirely routed the Teutonic Army, killing their great Master Conrade of Thuningen with about 30000 Soldiers, and near 15000 taken Prisoners. This Victory the Poles pursued so far, that they took most of the Towns in Prussia, and doubtless had entirely destroyed that Order had not the Emperor Sigismond ' come to their Relief, who soon forced the Poles to make Peace with 'em, and to restore all they had taken from 'em. Afterwards Jagello had several other Conflicts with the Teutonic Order, in all which he conquered.  

His Death,  He died of a Fever in Russia after having reigned forty eight Years and some Months, and lies buried in the Cathedral at Cracow. This King had had four Wives, all which he 
And Issue.  caused to be crowned, and two Sons, Vladislaus VI and Casimir IU. Tho his Son  

Uladislaus VI 1435.  ULADISLAUS the Sixth was but nine Years old when his Father died, yet after long Debates and great Opposition in the Diet, he was elected at Briescia in the Year 1435, and reigned ten Years. 
* Florus Polon. lib. 3. cap. 2. p. 167.  He was so young when he was chosen, that his Coronation Oath was fain to be dispensed with, his Mother Sophia and some of the Peers having promised he should take it when he came of Age. 
The Senate, Regent's.  In the mean time the Senate were Regent's during his Minority.  
Some while after the Tartars made great Incursions into Podolia which then belonged to Poland, when having killed the Polish General Bucarius, and the greatest part of his Army, they retired with great Booty into their own Country.  
After this, by the Death of the Emperor Albert, Hungary having no King to defend it against the Turks who threatened it on all sides, sent Ambassadors to Vladislaus to entreat him to come and be their King, which, after some Deliberation, he accepted of; and going into that Kingdom, notwithstanding the Cabals and Party of the Empress Elizabeth, who was left four Months gone with Child, he was crowned King of Hungary at Buda. The Child 
Uladislaus crowned King of Hungary.  the Empress went with was afterwards born, and called Ladislaus; but she dying not long after, left King Vladislaus in Peace, at least at home, till the Turks obliged him to take Arms for his Defence abroad; for Amurath, Emperor of the Turks, was not only then on his March to besiege Belgrade in Person, but also commanded the Hungarians to pay him Tribute. Hereupon Vladislaus was forced to declare 
His Wars with the Turks.  War against him, and under the Command of Huniades sent an Army made up of Poles and Hungarians to oppose him, which coming upon him by Night, surprised the Turkish Army near the River Morava in Hungary, and made such a slaughter of 'em that 'tis thought the Turks lost above 30000 Men that day. After this happy Victory Vladislaus banished all those Infidels out of Hungary, and pursued 'em to the very Frontiers of Macedon in Greece, where he gained a second Battle over Carambeius General of the Troops of Asia, took him Prisoner, and drove his Army into Mountains and inaccessible Places. The King was wounded in this Action.  

* Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 14. p. 172, etc.  Upon this occasion John Palcologus Emperor of Constantinople, the Pope, and many other 
Complimented by Christian Princes on his Victory.  Christian Princes, sent Ambassadors to compliment him. Afterwards Amurath, under pretence of ransoming Carambeius, sent Ministers to treat of a Peace, but Vladislaus would only agree to a Truce for ten Years. After this the Gentry of Poland sent to their King Vladislaus to return among 'em; but he being advised by several Christian Princes, especially the Pope who sent a Nuncio to him on purpose, to break the Truce and continue the War, instead of complying with the Poles Request, marched immediately with all the Troops he could get together, into Bulgaria, and came to Nicopolis Capital of this Province, where 
† Florus Polon. lib. 3. cap. 2. p. 175.  Dromla or Dracula, Palatin of Moldavia, meeting him, he earnestly entreated him to keep his Royal Promise with the Turks, though Enemies to the Christian Belief; but perceiving the King's inflexible Resolution to continue the War, gave him 4000 Men under his own Son's Command. In the mean while Amurath, who after the Truce agreed upon with Vladislaus went to conquer a certain People of Asia, called Caramani, hearing of this great Army's marching against him, turned his Forces, consisting, as Jovius relates, of about 80000 Men, to meet 'em, and near the Town of Varna fought 'em; where by his Camels frighting the Polish and Hungarian Horse, together with the invincible Courage of his Janissaries, he entirely defeated the Christian Army, and killed King Vladislaus 
Killed and routed by the Turks.  in the Year 1445. Whereupon some body made a Satirical Epitaph upon this unfortunate King, as follows.  

* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 88  Romulidae Cannae, ego Varnam Called notavi:  
Discite Mortales non temerare fidem.  
Me nisi Pontifices jussissent rumpere Foedus,  
Non ferret Scythicum Pannonis Ora Jugum.  
Ever after this, the Turks always fortified themselves against the Christians, who they thought could never keep either their Oaths or Word; and not long after Mahomet the Great took Constantinople in the Year 1453, wherein Constantin Paleologus, the last Christian Emperor of the East, was crowded to death in one of the Gates. King Vladislaus leaving no Children, his Brother  

Casimir IU. 1446.  CASIMIR, great Duke of Lithuania, was elected next, and crowned in the Year 1446, and reigned forty five Years. He married 
His Marriage.  the Princess Elizabeth, Daughter to the Emperor Albert II.  
In the beginning of his Reign the Prussians threw off the heavy Yoke of the Teutonic Order, and put themselves under Casimir's Protection. 
Assists the Prussians against the Teutonic Knights.  Hereupon this King went in Person into Prussia to take their Allegiance and Fidelity, where he likewise granted them many Privileges; who thereupon obliged themselves, especially at Dantzic, to maintain the King and his Court for four days, whenever he should please to come again in Person among 'em. In the mean time the Teutonic Knights got together a strong Army in Bohemia and Germany, with which they immediately marched against Casimir, and routed him before he could execute his Designs of besieging 
Is routed by that Order.  Marienburg, and several other Towns which that Order had yet left in Prussia. Casimir, not a little sensible of this Affront, to lose a Battle where he himself was like to have been killed, called a Diet, and prevailed so far upon the Gentry as to grant him half their Yearly Revenues to carry on the War against the Teutonic Order. By which means after a long and obstinate Dispute, he at last obliged 'em to accept of Articles of Peace, wherein the Pope's Nuncio was Mediator. By this Agreement they were to restore to Poland all 
Tet obtains an advantageous Peace.  Pomerania, the Territories of Culm and Michalow, with the Cities of Marienburg, Stuma and Elbing; and were to be left in possession of the rest, only on condition that their Great Master for ever after should be Prince and Senator of Poland, and take Oath of Fidelity to the King. The Moldavians likewise by their Hospodar desire Casimir's Protection against the Turks, and offer to take an Oath to him as Vassals, and a Tributary Nation, which they continued for a long while after.  

His Issue.  This King had four Sons, whereof Vladislaus was first chosen King of Bohemia, and afterwards of Hungary; for this last Kingdom, after their King's Death, had entreated Casimir to send one of his Sons to reign over them. Whereupon Vladislaus, than King of Bohemia, marched speedily into Hungary with a small Body, to prevent any of his Brothers pretending to that Crown: Nevertheless, his Brother John Albert went soon after with another Army to oppose him, and met and fought him; but Vladislaus having got the better, was crowned not long after; yet he was kind to his Brother, and gave him some Towns in Silesia, which then belonged to Bohemia.  

Deputies first admitted to the Diet.  In the time of this King Casimir, the Deputies of the Provinces first appeared at the Diet: For before, the King and Senators had the supreme Power of making Laws. 
* Lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 89.  Hartknoch says, that till this King's Reign the Latin Tongue was very rarely spoken in Poland; for that when the King of Sueden had a certain Interview with Casimir at Dantzic, neither Casimir nor any of his Court could discourse with him in Latin, but were fain to be beholden to a Monk to do that Office for them; which Casimir being much ashamed of, publicly commanded all his Officers forthwith to set about the Study of that Language; from which time the Poles have continued great Prosicients therein, nay, beyond any other Nation whatsoever.  

His Death.  This Prince died in the Year 1492, and lies buried at Cracow, having reigned forty five Years, and lived sixty four.  

John Albert. 1493.  JOHN ALBERT succeeded his Father Casimir, being thought the fittest, though I do not read he was the eldest of his Sons. He was crowned King in the Year 1493, and reigned 
His Character, with that of the Null.  nine Years. This Prince was very ambitions, but withal unfortunate; for designing to reduce the Null, who were then Vassals to Poland, and who, according to the Condition they saw that Kingdom in, would refuse or pay Obedience, and who would sometimes side with the Turks and Tartars to ravage it: 
* Florus Polon. lib. 3. cap. 4. p. 198.  He, the better to compass his Intentions, pretended to make War against the Turk, and for that purpose marched with his Army through Valachia, as if he designed nothing but to make his way into Turkey; but being once got into this Country, he caused his Soldiers to pick a quarrel with the Null for not providing them with Forage as they desired; which however was not an easy matter to do for an Army of 80000 Men which he 
His Policy and Army defeated by the Null.  had with him. Hereupon he besieges' Sozisaw, one of their strongest Towns; but the Inhabitants defended themselves so well, and Stephen their Hospodar so fatigued the Besiegers by taking their Convoys and intercepting their Provisions, that at last Albert was forced to raise the Siege, and return into his own Country; when the Hospodar greedily pursuing him, destroyed great ●●art of his Army in a Wood, where he had laid an Ambush. Soon after this the Hospodar, to be farther revenged on the Poles, called to his Assistance the Turks and Tartars, who all joining together, entered Poland with a prodigious Army, and carried away about 100000 Captives, of which the greatest Part were Russians. The Moldavians and Null quickly returned home, but the Turks out of covetousness of Plunder, stayed till the great Frosts and Snow surprised 'em, when not being used to such excessive Cold as this Country is subject to, above 40000 of them were frozen to death. 
* Florus Polon. lib. 3. cap. 4. p. 201.  Some among 'em that escaped were forced to cut open their Horse's bellies, and thrust themselves into them to preserve their natural Heat. After this, 
Makes Peace with the Null and Turks.  John Albert made peace with the Null, and Bajazet Emperor of the Turks. Next he went in Person into Prussia to oblige Frederic Duke of Saxony, then Great Master of the Teutonic Order, to take Oath of Fidelity to him, which he had for some time refused, but died suddenly at Thorn before he could effect 
His Death.  his design. Albert leaving no Children, the Diet thought fit to elect his Brother  

Alexander. 1501.  ALEXANDER, Great Duke of Lithuania, the better to renew their Alliance with that Country. This Prince being proclaimed King, comes to Cracow, where by his Brother Frederic, Cardinal and Archbishop of Gnesna, he was crowned in the Year 1501, and reigned only five Years; but the Archbishop 
† Herburt. de Fulstin. lib. 19 p. 348. Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 90.  refused to do the like Office for his Queen Helena, because she was of the Greek Church, being Daughter to John Great Duke of Muscovy; which Country are all of that Persuasion. Soon after that he was crowned, his Father-in-Law, 
His Wars.  the Great Duke, made War upon him, and besieged the City of Smolensko, Capital of a large Province of the same Name; but Alexander coming in time to relieve it, obliged the Muscovite to make Peace for six Years. In his time also the Moldavians and Tartars made Eruptions into Poland, but were beaten back with great Loss; insomuch that 'tis said, there were killed only of the Tartars in that Action near 20000. The King was not in Person at this Victory, he then lying sick at Vilna, Capital 
His Death.  of Lithuania, where he died soon after, and was buried in that City.  

His Character.  
* Fulstin. lib. 20. p. 356.  He was of a middle Stature, had a long Visage and black Hair; was very strong built, but exceeding dull-witted, and consequently but a little Talker. He exceeded all his Brothers in Generosity, and was wont to delight much in Musicians and such trifling Artists. Nevertheless, this his Liberality was generally esteemed but Prodigality, insomuch that some were so hold as to say, That he died in time, or else both Poland and Lithuania might have been lavished away. To prevent the like pernicious Generosity for the future, 
† Hartkn. l. 1. c. 2. p. 90.  the Diet made a Law, calling it Statutum Alexandrinum, by which they revoked all this King's profuse Gifts. Alexander leaving no Children, and but two Brothers, the Archbishop of Gnesna dying before him,  

Sigismond I. 1507.  SIGISMOND was preferred to Vladislaus, King of Hungary and Bohemia, either because the Gentry were more affected to him, being bred among 'em, or by reason they were afraid of Vladislaus' great Power. He was elected at Petricovia in the Year 1507, and reigned forty one Years.  
When Sigismond left his Government of Lithuania to come into Poland, he substituted one Glinski, a great ●●avourite of the late King's, in his room. 
* Florus Polon. lib. 3. cap. 6. p. 213, etc.  This Palatin having great Authority among the Lithuanians, became so ambitious as to think of making himself Absolute; which concealing for a good while, at length he agreed with Basilius Great Duke of Muscovy, to allow him his share of that Province in case he would afford him his Assistance; which Proposal the Great Duke being pleased with, readily consented to, and with all Expedition dispatched away an Army to Glinski: but as such great Designs are not 
Defeats a great Conspiracy and Army.  to be carried on without great Noise and Suspicions, Sigismond came soon to hear of this treacherous Enterprise; whereupon drawing up all his Forces to oppose the intended Invasion, he meets and defeats their Army, ravages and destroys their Country, and at last obliges them to sue for Peace, which he not without some difficulty granted.  

His other Wars.  Afterwards the Null and Tartars making Incursions into Russia and Poland, he forces them to return home with great Loss. The Muscovites likewise making War upon him a second time, and taking the City of Smolensko, with all the Country about it, he beat their Armies in several Engagements, and having killed in all above 30000 of their Men, retook Smolensko, and made 'em accept of a Peace the second time for five Years. He soon after 
His Marriage.  married Buona Sforza, Daughter to John Galeatio Duke of Milan. Afterwards he made 
His War with the Teutonic Order.  War with the Knights of the Teutonic Order, the reason of which was, because Albert Marquis of Brandenburg his Sister's Son, and then Great Master, refused to take an Oath as it was agreed in the late Wars. Hereupon Sigismond took from him some Towns, and had great Advantages over him in several Engagements; but however Albert having considerable Succours sent him from Germany, prolonged the War for a good while in Prussia.  
About this time Martin Luther's Doctrine came to be known in these Parts, and most of the Citizens of 
* Florus Polon. lib. 3. cap. 6. p. 226.  Dantzic embraced it; for which at first the King was very severe with them, but at length, fearing that to preserve their Religion they might side with the Teutonic Order against him, he granted them Liberty of Conscience. All this while that Order made vigorous Resistance, and with equal Loss on both sides, fatigued the Polish Army, till at last it was agreed by both Parties to make the Emperor Charles V. and Lewis King of Hungary Arbitrators; who determined that Sigismond should relinquish to the Marquis of Brandenburg all the Eastern part of Prussia (which is above half of that great Province) and that he and his Heirs should 
Ended by Mediation.  for ever enjoy it (as they have actually done ever since) without any disturbance from Sigismond; but the Marquis of Brandenburg, as Duke of Prussia, for himself and his Heirs was to take an Oath of Fidelity to the Kings of Poland, and to send to their Service every Year in time of War a hundred Horse ready equipt, which those Kings were to maintain at their own Charges from the time they went out of Prussia.  
At this time the House of Austria was not a little jealous of the exorbitant Power and vast Dominions of the Family of Jagello: for not only Sigismond possessed Poland, the great Dutchies of Lithuania, Smolensko and Severia, and likewise all the Countries between the Euxine and Baltic Seas; but also his Nephew Lewis, Son of Vladislaus, was King of Hungary, Bohemia and Silesia, insomuch that they secretly raised several Enemies against them; whereupon the Muscovites, Moldavians and Tartars came a third time to molest Poland, but were forced to withdraw after having done some Mischief. About this time Solyman the Great, Emperor of the Turks, made War with Hungary, and gained the famous Battle of Mobac, where King Lewis and the flower of his Army were slain, and the better part of Hungary subjected to the Turk. This King Lewis left only one Daughter, 
How the Emperor came by Hungary, Bohemia and Silesia.  which was married to Ferdinand of Austria, whereby that House came into possession of the Kingdoms of Hungary and Bohemia, as likewise of Silesia, all which it enjoys to this day. Sigismond died not long after the Council of Trent begun, being 82 Years old, and having reigned about 40 with great Success.  
Paulus Jovius says that in this King's time there were three Heroes, viz. the Emperor Charles V. Francis I. King of France, and Sigismond I. King of Poland, each of which deserved alone to govern the Universe, had they not happened to live at the same time.  

His Character, Marriages, and Issue.  This King was as famous in Peace as War, being adorned with more Virtues than any Prince of Poland before him. Besides which Perfections of his Mind, he had also great Strength of 
* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 90.  Body; for he is reported to have been accustomed to snap Horseshoes asunder, and to have broke the strongest Ropes with his Hands only, as I am credibly informed the Elector of Saxony, at present King of Poland, has often done. He had two Wives, Barbara Daughter of Stephen Woievod of Transilvania, by whom he had one Daughter named Hedwigis, married to Joachim, Marquis of Brandenburg; and another Wife Buona Sforza, mentioned before, who brought him four Daughters, which were Isabel, married to John King of Hungary, Sophia to the Duke of Brunswick, and Ann and Catherine, both successively to the King of Sweden; and one Son Sigismond Augustus, who succeeded his Father in the Kingdom of Poland.  

A false Christ.  
† Guagnini Tom. 1. p. 125.  Martin Bielski, a Polander, who writ the Annals of his Country in his Native Language, mentions, that in the beginning of this King's Reign, a certain Gentleman named James Melstinski Starosta of Brezina, being not a little beside himself, pretended to be Christ descended again upon the Earth; and consequently, together with one Peter Zatorski, a Citizen of Cracow, and eleven others of the same stamp, set forward through divers Cities and Villages, canting and imposing upon the common People all along as they went; sometimes he pretended to raise the Dea●●, which he seemingly effected by help of 〈◊〉 Compact with some of his fellow Impostors. Next he worked several pretended Miracles by Legerdemain, as by finding things in places where it was almost impossible for them to be, which nevertheless he had prudently taken care to lay there before, as Fish in Bogs, and the like. Afterwards he went to the Monastery of Cestochow, where it seems he was not known. Here he caused one of his Followers to pretend to be possessed with the Devil, who thereupon being immediately seized on was led by the Monks to the Altar at a time when a great Concourse of People were gathered together to hear Mass; but the Impostor having provided himself a large Coat with several deep and winding Plights, as likewise of divers small Pebbles which he had wrapped up in his Sa●●, broke furiously from those that held him, and immediately leaped upon the Altar, where seizing upon all the Offerings, he soon conveyed them into these obscure Folds of his Coat, when the Monks going to search him with great Violence, found only the Stones in his Sash, which they believing to be the Money transmuted by the Power of the Devil, immediately fell to exorcising the Stones; but finding the same Species still remain, they threw down their Books in great Indignation, and cried, Talem Daemonem nunquam experti sumus, abite cum eo ad omnes Daemons. By help of the Money they had thus got by this Cheat, they travelled all over Silesia, and at last came to a Gentleman's House where they told his Wife, that Christ and his Apostles were come to visit her, and that she must make some Offering, and her Soul should be saved; to which the Woman replied, that her Husband was from home, and therefore she could not possibly comply with their Requests: whereupon they demanded of her, if she had any Linen to sacrifice; she answered, she had, and presently fetched them down a small parcel, which they receiving from her hands, told her, they would keep that for themselves, and Christ should bless her, and increase her Store: whereupon, enquiring farther if she had any more, she showed them another Parcel; but they being about to do the like by that as they did by the other, she told them, her Husband not being within, she durst by no means part with it: which Answer displeasing these Impostors, they privily slid a piece of lighted Coal among the Linen, which the Woman not knowing any thing of, took the parcel and locked it up in her Chest as before, but which not long after bursting out into a Flame, first burnt the Chest, and then the House. The Husband coming home and finding his House on fire, enquired into the cause of it; whereupon his Wife answered, that because she had treated Christ disrespectfully who came to visit her, this Judgement had befallen them. At this the Man flying out into a Passion, cried, This was an Impostor, and no Christ; wherefore calling his Neighbours together, they pursued them close till they heard of them in a Village hard by, which the false Saviour being informed of, said to that Apostle of his, named Peter, Peter, now is my Hour come, and the time wherein I am to drink that bitter Draught approaches, which I have no other way to avoid but by leaping out at this Window: To which Peter replied, I also will follow my Master's Example, that I may live. Whereupon they both leaped out at the Window, and the rest of the Apostles fled also their several ways; but the deluded Countrymen closely pursuing them, at length overtook them, and surrounding them, with Clubs, Scourges, and the like, laid them on most unmercifully, crying all the while, Prophecy to us, O Christ, with thy Disciples, in what Wood did these Clubs and Scourges grow. By this severe Discipline these Impostors having been totally reformed, confessed that it was no small Task to imitate Christ and his Apostles.  
Before his Death, Sigismond got the Diet to elect his Son  

Sigismond II. 1548.  SIGISMOND II. surnamed afterwards Augustus, who was crowned in the Year 1548, and reigned to 1576. 
* Florus Polon. lib. 3. cap. 7. p. 238, etc. Guagnini Rerum Polon. Tom. 1. p. 128, etc.  The Diet was very angry 
His Marriage displeases the Diet.  with him, that after his Coronation he married the Lady Radzivil Widow to a Woievod without their Consent, which is against the Constitution of that Kingdom; but this Queen dying soon after without Children, they agreed to his Marriage with the Princess Catharine, another Widow of the House of Austria, which was before married to Francis Duke of Mantua.  
In his time Livonia, which is a great Province that lies between Prussia, Swedeland, Muscovy and Lithuania, whereof part belonged to the Teutonic Order, and part to the Archbishop of Riga, being the whole under Protection of the Empire, was like to have been overrun by the Great Duke of Muscovy, who brought thither a powerful Army for that purpose, and took most of its Towns. Whereupon the Inhabitants finding they were not able alone to resist so great a Force, sent to the Emperor Ferdinand for Relief, who, being then busied in other Wars, answered, he could spare 'em none; but gave 'em leave to have recourse to whose Protection they thought fit. Some therefore among them put themselves under Eric King of Sweden; but the Archbishop of Riga, and the Great Master of the Teutonic Order, with all the Nobility and Gentry, requested the Assistance of Sigismond King of Poland, who would by no means grant it them, unless they would submit themselves entirely to his Obedience, and take Oath of Fidelity accordingly; next that they should give up all their Towns and Country, and lastly, annex Livonia for ever to Poland. To these Terms the Livonians were neither ready nor willing to submit; however, at length they thought it better to condescend to these Proposals, than be forced to accept of worse from the irresistible Fury of the Muscovites; and therefore, 
Livonia united to Poland.  having maturely deliberated on the matter, consented that Gothotred Ketler, a Gentleman of Westphalia, then Great Master and General of their Army, should publicly abdicate his Mastership, and give up to Nicholas Radzivil Palatin of Vilna, deputed for that purpose by the King, the City and Citadel of Riga, and declare Livonia from thenceforward subject to Poland, which was accordingly done; and at the same time, by Order of the King his Master, Radzivil proclaimed 
First Duke of Curland and Semigallia.  Gothotred Ketler 
* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 8.  Duke of Curland and Semigallia, which are two Provinces of Livonia; and next day by further Orders, declared him Viceroy and Governor of Livonia. These two Provinces of Curland and Semigallia Ketler's Posterity have enjoyed ever since by Hereditary Succession, but still as Vassals to Poland.  
Upon this Agreement the King declares 
His Wars with the Muscovites.  War immediately against the Muscovites, who were then very strong, having just before taken from the Tartars the Kingdoms of Astracan and Casan; nevertheless he defeated their Army upon the Frontiers of Lithuania, and forced 'em to retire into their own Country, but they soon returned a second time, commanded by their Czar, John Basilowits, though with as little success as before.  

* Florus Polon. lib. 3. cap. 7. p. 255.  This Czar is reported to have been a most cruel Tyrant, it having been his chief Diversion to invent new ways of torturing, insomuch that 'tis said, that to boil and roast both his own Subjects and the Prisoners he took, was the least Punishments he made 'em suffer. It would be both tedious and horrid to hear all the Tortures he used towards Men, Women and Children. He was wont to recompense such as invented new ways of Torture; but these his inhuman Cruelties did so exasperate his Subjects, that Sigismond found no great difficulty to force him to a Peace.  
After this Sigismond sent a small Army into Valachia, to support Bogdan in his Intentions to make himself Prince thereof; but the Null, assisted by the Turks, soon obliged the Poles to return home.  

Lutheran Religion propagated.  
† Neugebaver. lib. 8. Hist. Polon. p. 572, etc.  In this King's Reign the Lutheran Religion got great ground in Poland, the cause of which was a Quarrel, upon account of a Whore, between the Courtiers and Scholars, which induced the latter to retire into Germany, where they first imbibed these Principles, and which upon their return they not a little propagated in their own Country. The first Person of note that embraced this Religion, was Johannes a Lasco Palatin of Lanschet, who in the Year 1540 left his Government, and went into Holland and England; and at his return, converted several to that Persuasion. All this while the King gave disturbance to none that abjured the Roman Faith, but rather 
* Sarnitius lib. 8. Annal. Polon. ad An. 1552. p. 394.  favoured them, having heard several of their Preachers in his Court, particularly two, Johannes Cosminis and Laurencius Prasnitius, which occasioned most of the Bishops to be inclined to that Belief.  
Here cannot well be omitted a great Escape King Sigismond had at Koningsberg in Ducal Prussia, whither being invited by Albert Marquis of Brandenburg, and at his Reception saluted with all the Cannon, by negligence of a Gunner a Bullet was left in one of them, which when fired came so near the King as to dash out one 
† Neugebaver lib. 8. p. 585, etc.  Wisnoviec's Brains, who marched just behind him.  

The Commonwealth of Babina.  In Sigismund's 
𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁 Sarnitius lib. 8. Annal. Polon. p. 395.  time flourished the jocular Commonwealth of Babina, consisting of several merry Gentlemen of Lublin, who met together at a place called Babin to exercise their Wits upon all occasions. This Meeting, to procure the greater respect for their Proceedings, they modelled into the form of the Government of the Kingdom, electing a King and Senate, together with divers Officers and Magistrates. As whenever any among them talked out of his Sphere, and meddled with matters that did no ways belong to him, they created him an Archbishop or Palatin; such a one as made a great many Blunders, and delighted in Contradictions, they chose for their Speaker or Chancellor; and whoever boasted too inordinately of his Valour, they preferred to be their General, passing immediately a Patent for that purpose, and which was to be presented to him with a great deal of Submission by the Bragadochios of a Minor Character; but if the Person elect refused this Command, they persecuted him with hissing and hooting till he had accepted it. Thus they created several other Senators of different Qualities, whence it followed that in short time they became judicious Censurers, wary Talkers, modest Observers, humble Performers, and true Relaters of any Exploit. Whenever they admitted any of their Society, they first enquired into his Abilities, and required a Specimen of his Parts, and this to determine the better what Office or Employment he was fittest to execute in their Commonwealth, they having several others of an inferior Rank besides those we have already mentioned: As if any one introduced an impertinent Discourse of his Hounds or his Hawks, him they immediately made either their Huntsinan or their Faulkoner: Likewise if a Man run out too much upon Religion, he was constituted their Chaplain; and where any dealt too much in Matters of Controversy, he was forthwith ordained their Inquisitor: lastly, where a Man was too exuberant in his Discourse about Horses, or Household Affairs, him they either promoted to be their Master of the Horse, or their Majordomo. By these means in a little time they reformed most of the Abuses and Indecorums crept into the Government of Poland, and proved than the force of satire is of no less benefit than that of Oratory. At length this pleasant Constitution came to the King's Ear, who was often delighted with hearing of their Transactions; and one day enquiring after their dignified Members, he asked, whether they had any King among them? to which the Starosta of Babina, who was most celebrated for his pleasant Countenance and jocular Humour, replied, Far be it from us, most Serene Monarch, that we should make choice of any other King while your Majesty is living. Which Answer so extremely pleased Sigismond that he laughed heartily, and was so far from showing any signs of Dislike, that by several Expressions which dropped from him he occasioned great Mirth in all the Company. Afterwards there arising some grave Disputes in this Society about the Antiquity of the Monarchies of Persia, Greece and Rome, a certain merry Fellow started up and cried, What makes you thus boast, Gentlemen, of the Antiquity and Extent of these Monarchies, when ours of Babina is much more ancient and of wider Bounds than them all? What says David? Omnis Homo Mendax, all Men are Liars; wherefore the whole Earth must consequently have been comprehended within the Limits of our Jurisdiction from all Ages. His Opinion was unanimously received with Applause. This Society further boasts of having always had Privileges and Immunities from Emperors and Kings: but still such as were too severe in their Reflections, were not to be admitted of this Republic. The place where this Assembly met the Members termed Gelda, being the word that the Dantzickers use for a Tavern, and which the Poles apply to a merry Company of witty Fellows.  

His Death.  Sigismond died of a Chronical Distemper at Knyssin in the Confines of Lithuania, &c, and left no Children, but had two Sisters surviving, Catherine and Ann, the former of which was first married to John Duke of Finland, and then to the King of Sweden; she was Mother to Sigismond III. who was afterwards King of Sweden and Poland. Ann lived a long while a Maid till she was married to Stephen Batori Prince of Transilvania, and afterwards King of Poland.  

Jagellonic Family extinct.  After this Sigismund's Death the Male Race of the Jagellonic Family was quite extinct.  
I am afraid I have almost tired your Lordship's Patience with this prolix Narrative of the second and third Classes of the Kings of Poland, yet I can safely aver that I have been as concise as the Subject Matter would hear, since I have run through the Course of about 800 Years; where your Lordship may observe, that though these Princes could never prevail with their Subjects to declare their Kingdom Hereditary, yet they had sometimes Influence sufficient over them, to cause them to elect their Children for their Successors while they themselves were yet alive: And likewise sometimes the great Service they had rendered their Country, obliged the Poles in Gratitude to advance their Issue to the Throne after their Deaths: Besides, the natural Affection which this Country always bore to the Royal Family, inclined them to elect the next Relation to the deceased King. But notwithstanding after Sigismond the Second Death, though there were several of the Family of Piastus and Jagello remaining alive, both in Poland and Silesia, yet the Poles, for fear so long and so uninterrupted a Succession of Princes of the same Line might subject them to a Despotic Monarchy, as they almost were in Sigismund's time, resolved to choose Kings out of other Families, as they effectually did afterwards out of France, Transilvania and Sweden, which it would be too tedious to give your Lordship a Relation of; and therefore to ease your Impatience, I will subscribe myself,  
My LORD, Your Lordship's most Obedient Humble Servant, B. C.    

LETTER III.  
To his Grace WILLIAM Duke of Devonshire, Lord Steward of His Majesty's Household.  
Of the Succession and Remarkable Actions of the fourth Class of the Kings of Poland, consisting of mixed Families, from the Year 1574, to 1674.  
My LORD;  
THE great Esteem and true Respect which your eminent Qualities and gallant Behaviour, both beyond Sea and at home, command from all those who have heard of your Name, made me ambitious to give your Grace, in this Account of Poland, a Testimony of mine, and congratulate myself in the Honour of being known to so great a Person. The Subject, my Lord, I thought most suitable to so great a Mind and Genius as yours, is a Relation of Heroic Actions, I mean the Lives of the Kings of Poland, from the last of the Jagellonick Family, to the Election of the late King John Sobieski, comprehending the space of a hundred Years.  
By Sigismond the Second Death, the Great and Renowned Family of Jagello came to be extinct as to Males; for he left no Children, and had only two Sisters, Catherine and Ann. The former was first married to John Duke of Finland, and next to John III. King of Sueden, having been Mother to Sigismond III. who was afterwards both King of Poland and Sueden. The latter Ann lived a Maid for a considerable while, till Stephen Batori, Prince of Transylvania, being elected King of Poland, married her, but had no Issue by her.  

A Diet called.  The ABp of Gnesna, James Vchanski, having notified the late King's Death to all the Gentry, called a Diet after the usual manner, to Elect another; whereupon several Candidates appearing, they all had their different Parties and Friends in the Kingdom. The chief Pretenders were Ernest of Austria the Emperor's Son, John III. King of Sueden, the Great Duke of Muscovy, and Henry of Valois, Brother to Charles IX. of France, besides several Natives of the Country. After a long deliberation, they pitched upon  

Henry of Valois. 1574.  HENRY of Valois Duke of Anjou, and sent 
* Heidenstein Rerum Polon. lib. 1. p. 30. col. 2.  Adam Conarsky Bishop of Posnan, and Albert Laski Palatin of Siradia, in quality of Ambassadors, together with several other Senators, into France, to bring him into his Kingdom, after having agreed to the following Articles; to the performance of which, both the King of France and his Brother the King of Poland, took a solemn Oath. The Articles were as follows:  
Imprimis, That Henry of Valois should transport all his Effects and Annual Revenues in France into Poland.  
2. That the King of France should pay Sigismond the late King's Debts with his own Money.  
3. That the French King should maintain a hundred young Polish Noblemen at his Court, and fifty in other Places.  
4. And lastly, That he should build a Fleet in the Baltic Sea, and help the Poles to carry on the War against the Muscovites.  
There was another Article the King would by no means consent to till he came into Poland, and that was,  
5. That he should marry the Princess Ann, Sister to Sigismond late King of Poland.  
King Henry having thus chiefly satisfied the Conditions, he set forth from Paris about the beginning of October, in the Year 1576, and passed through Lorain and Germany, directly to Posnan in Poland; whence he soon after 
His Coronation.  went, and was crowned at Cracow the 21st of February 1577: but in four months' time after his Coronation, receiving Letters from France that the King his Brother was 
* Heidenstein lib. 1. p. 62. col. 1.  dead without Issue; and being begged to return to enjoy his Right, he communicated those Letters to the Senate, acquainting them withal, that it was necessary he should return into France to prevent Civil Wars, and maintain his Title to that Crown. But fearing lest the Poles might have detained him, (as I have often heard them say they would certainly have done) on the 18th of March he stole away, 
Abdicates Poland.  and rid Post through Silesia and Germany into Italy, and thence to France. The King being missed next morning, they sent several Senators after him, who overtook him in Silesia, and begged of him to return, and not abandon a Nation so shamefully which had elected him with such Universal Affection; yet nothing could prevail upon him, but he however promised, that as soon as he had settled his Affairs in France, he would return among them; and moreover acknowledged, that he was extremely obliged to the Polish Nation for their Kindness and goodwill towards him. Hereupon the Senate afterwards 
Polish Embassy into France proves fruitless.  sent two Ambassadors into France to entreat him to return, which the King had several times a mind to comply with, for he loved that Nation extremely well; but his French Subjects still prevailed upon him to change his Mind, representing to him the many Dangers he would expose France to by such a Journey.  
Thus the Poles having lost all Hopes of having their King again, the Primate Vchanski calls a Diet at Warsaw the 4th of November following, to proceed to a new Election, where two Princes were principally proposed, which 
Candidates for a new Election.  were the Emperor Maximilian, and Stephen Batori Prince of Transylvania; but they could never unanimously agree which of the two to choose, and therefore the Diet was dissolved. Maximilians Party sent Ambassadors to acquaint him that he was chosen, and that they expected he should speedily come and be crowned, while Batori's Faction did the like for him, and invited him to come forthwith into Poland. Hereupon  

Stephen Batori. 1577.  BATORI made more haste than the Emperor to comply with their Request; for he immediately left Transylvania, and passing through Valachia and Russia, quickly arrived at Cracow; where, on the 18th of April 1577, he was received and crowned by Karnkovius Bishop of Vladislaw, the Archbishop of Gnesna being for Maximilian; who yet afterwards, rather than he would undergo a Siege in his Castle of Lowitz, quietly submitted to Batori.  
In the mean time the Emperor was more slow, resolving to come with an Army to dispute his Right; but his Party growing less and less every day, at length the Senate sent Ambassadors to acquaint him, that his Slowness and Indifference had superseded his Right to the Crown, it being resolved to be given to him that arrived first. Hereupon the Emperor, who was then at the Diet at Ratisbon, ordered the Ambassadors to be put in Prison, and forthwith determined to go for Poland himself, but was prevented by a dangerous Sickness; of which he soon after died, Octob. 12.  
Batori, 'tis true, was chiefly indebted to his Merit for the Crown of Poland; yet at the same time the Family of Zborowski was not a little assisting to him, occasioned by his civil Reception of one Samuel of that Family, who had been banished his Country for striking John Teczynski Castellan of Wounitz in the King's Court. Whereupon Samuel employed all his Interest for Batori, for at the time of the Election he writ to several of his Relations and Friends to Vote for that Prince; but it being the Temper of the Polanders never to think themselves sufficiently recompensed after they have done a Service, Batori, though he sought all he could to oblige that Family, yet could not keep them from proving his most inveterate Enemies, by reason that he would not submit to govern according to their Humours: which not long after cost 
* Florus Polon. lib. 4. p. 340.  Samuel his Life by a formal Proceeding in a Court of Justice.  

His Rise.  Batori was first, as I find him, a private Gentleman in Transylvania; but at length by his Merit and Valour came to have great Authority among the People of that Country, for he was once sent Ambassador to the Emperor's Court, where he managed Affairs to the satisfaction and advantage of both Parties; so that after Prince John Sigismond, Son to the Sister of Sigismond II. of Poland, died, they elected him Prince of Transylvania.  
After he was crowned King of Poland by Karnkouski, whom he made Archbishop of Gnesna, he endeavoured to appease the Disorders among the great People, and to win the Affections of the Malcontents, which at last he effected by marrying the Princess Ann, 
His Marriage.  Daughter to Sigismond I. and Sister to Sigismond II. by whom he had no Children.  

The Dantzickers reduced.  
† Florus Polon. lib. 4. p. 302. Sleidan. lib. 65. p. 325, etc.  About this time the Emperor fomented a Sedition among the Inhabitants of Dantzic, which induced them to refuse to take an Oath of Fidelity to Batori, and moreover to raise an Army and stand upon their Defence. But the Senate of Poland having declared 'em Rebels, their Army was soon defeated, and Town besieged; and at last they were obliged to comply by Mediation of the Electors of Saxony and Brandenburg, and Landgrave of Hesse. The chief Cause of this War was, that the Citizens of Dantzic pretended not to be subject to the Republic of Poland, but only to the King; yet notwithstanding this Treaty, they were forced to submit themselves to both.  

No Courts of Justice.  
* Florus Polon. lib. 4. p. 306.  Hitherto there were no Courts of Judicature in Poland, all Differences being decided by the King and Council. But the Gentry finding this way of Procedure too tedious to the Nation, and too burdensome to the King, obtained leave of Batori to erect two Courts of Judicature, which they commonly call Tribunals; one at Petricovia, and the other at Lublin, where all Civil Causes were to be determined absolutely without any Appeal to Court, unless upon any Matter relating to the State; in which Case, the last Decision was to be reserved to the King and Diet together.  

† Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 102, etc.  This King was more severe in his Punishments than the Polish Laws allowed, yet he molested none on account of Religion, always affirming that three Things God had wholly reserved to himself, which were, to make something out of nothing, to foretell Things to come, and to govern and direct Consciences. This Prince, like Sigismond I. very much encouraged speaking Latin in his Dominions, being reported to have said often to the gentlemen's Sons, Discite Isatinè, nam unum ex vobis aliquando faciam Mosci Pan, (a great lord) Whereby the Youth being all in Hopes, practised that Language with great Diligence, which very much contributed towards the Increase of Arts and Sciences in this Kingdom. When Sigismond I. sent the Bishop of Varmia his Ambassador to Vienna, the Emperor was surprised to hear even the Polish Coachmen speak Latin fluently. Also after Sigismond the Second Death, when Ambassadors were sent to bring Henry of Valois into Poland, the French wondered that not one of all their Train but spoke this Language with great Address.  
This King, in the beginning of his Reign, was like to have been overrun by the Muscovites; for they had so great Advantages over the Poles, that they took several Towns from them in a Dutchies of Severia, Smolensko and Lithuania. In these Wars the Muscovites were 
His Wars.  not a little politic, for they took occasion to invade the Poles, either when they had Wars abroad, or Disturbances at home; but at last King Batori having appeased his own intestine Jars, and made Peace with his Neighbours, by the concurrence of a general Diet declared War against the Muscovites, and poured in upon 'em with such Vigour and Success, that in three Years time he retook all his own Towns, and besides carried the War into the very heart of their Country, plundering and destroying wherever he came. In this Expedition he got from them above twenty great Cities and Provinces, such as Polotia, Sokola, Sussa, Krasna, Vsviata, Sitna, Jeseriscia, Kossiano, Nescerda, all the Duchy of Plotia, Lukis, Nevela, Zavolotia, Ostrovia, etc. All this put the poor Muscovites into such a fright that they immediately dispatched an 
* Bizardiere, p. 59  Ambassador to the Pope, to give him hopes, that if he could prevail upon the Poles to withdraw their Army out of their Country, and make an honourable Peace with 'em, they would all submit to the Roman Church.  
This your Grace may imagine soon put the Holy Father upon a pious Stratagem; for he sent his Nuncio Possevinus to assure the Czar, that he would employ all his Interest in his behalf. Whereupon the Poles, having besieged Pleskow, the strongest Town in Muscovy, with ill success; and moreover, having lost above forty thousand Men during the War, at length, through the prudent Management of Possevinus, 
15 of Jan. 1582.  they agreed to a Suspension of Arms for ten Years; and farther, that the King of Poland should restore to Muscovy all the Provinces and Towns he had taken in this War; and that, on the other side, the Czar should give up to the King all Livonia: yet the Czar made no Alteration in his Greek Religion, as he had made the Pope believe he designed to do. Thus ended the War with Muscovy, which was like to have proved so fatal to that Country.  

* Bizardiere Hist. des Dietes, p. 59, etc.  The Tartars durst not make any Incursions into Poland during his Reign; and their Cham having sent Ambassadors thither to demand the Tribute formerly paid them for Transylvania, he dismissed their Embassy with a great deal of Indignation, declaring he would pay Tribute to no Man. The Turk likewise showed great Deference for this Prince, for he never made any Hostilities in Transylvania while Batori governed there; but his Nephew being elected Prince of that Country, the Port would have augmented their Tribute; but Batori espousing his Cause by an Embassy to the Grand Signior, the Port chose rather to be contented with little than to hazard the losing of all by disobliging so powerful a Prince.  
All that huge Tract of Land, above three hundred Miles long from East to West, and above a hundred broad from South to North, was for fifty Years before in possession of the Poles. It is called by one general Name Vkraina, 
Ukraina Whence so called.  which, in the Selavonian Language, signifies a 
† Ibid.  Frontier, serving for Bounds betwixt them, the Turks and Tartars. This vast and fertile Country is divided into two great Provinces, Volhynia and Podolia. Of Volhynia, the capital Town is Kiovia, built on the Borysthenes, which was formerly, as they say, one of the largest in Europe. It anciently belonged to the Dukes of Russia, but now is entirely ruined between the Turks and Tartars. The capital Town of Podolia is Caminiec, a fortified City built on a Rock. The Inhabitants of Vkraina 
Inhabitants termed Cosacks.  are commonly called 
𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁 Heidenstein Rerum Polon. lib. 9 p. 326.  Cosacks, which in the Sclavonian Language signifies Robbers. At first they were Peasants that came from Russia and other neighbouring Countries, settling in the Islands of the River Boristhenes, and who afterwards spread all over Vkraina, and lived on Robbery; for they used to make Inroads into Tartary and Turkey, plunder Trebisond and Sinope, and ravage even up to the Gates of Constantinople. They also used to pirate on the Black Sea, and have been very useful to the Poles when they were engaged in War against the Infidels. I can compare 'em to no People better than to the Miquelets of Spain, or Highlanders of Scotland.  

* Chevalier Hist. de Cosaques, p. 3.  King Stephen, to make this People more serviceable to the Crown of Poland, put 'em 
Reduced to a Discipline.  under a good Discipline, ordered 'em Officers and a General; and moreover, gave 'em the Town of Techtimoravia upon the River Boristhenes, which they made a Magazine, as also the Place of Residence for their Governors, to be a Bulwark against the Eruptions of the Tartars, who frequently infested them. He endowed 'em likewise with many Privileges; for all which they afterwards did him considerable Services.  
It will not here be amiss to give your Grace some farther Account of this People, who are often much talked of, and yet at the same time but very little known.  

† Guerre Civili di Polon. lib. 1. p. 7.  
Whence their Name.  Alberto Vimina in his Civil Wars of Poland says, it is certain that they have their Name from the Sclavonian Word Coza, which signifies a Goat; and this either because they were wont to be clothed with Garments of Goat's Hair, or that they lived like Goat-herds in Huts; or else by reason that they skipped about like Goats, and found no Country of too difficult Access for them.  

Extent of their first Dominions.  The Country they first possessed was not above eighteen Leagues on either side of the Borysthenes, not far from the Place where Ovid was sent into Banishment, and where they affirm is a Castle still that goes by the Name of Ovidova, where Ovid may be supposed to have been buried: This Vimina says he does not at all discredit, the Country agreeing with a Passage of Ovid in his Elegies writ to Rufinus.  
Non Ager hic Pomum, non dulces educat uvas;  
Non salices Ripa: robora monte virent:  
Neve fretum laudes terra magis, aequora semper  
Ventorum rabie, solibus orba tument.  
And the Fierceness of the People described by Ovid in another place, increases his Opinion.  
Maxima pars hominum, nec te pulchorrima curate  
Roma, nec Ausonii Militis Arma timet.  
Notwithstanding all this, we must not pretend to derive this Modern People from Antiquity, for it is certain they were at first a Body of Vagabonds that fled from Justice into this Country, where they lived only upon fishing and hunting, and at last, as now, upon Piracy and Robbery.  

Their present Extent.  
* Hist. des Cosaques, p. 26, etc.  The present Extent of their Country is much larger than formerly, for now it reaches 100 Leagues in length, and above 40 in breadth. They report the Grass here generally grows so high, that a Man on Horseback is easily hid under it. This Country abounds so with all sorts of Grain, that the Inhabitants know not what to do with it, their Rivers being shallow, and therefore not capable to transport it to other places. They have also all sorts of Beasts, Fish and Fowl, with most other Necessaries, except Wine and Salt, whereof the first comes from Hungary, Transilvania, Valachia and Moldavia; and the second is fetched from the Mines of Poland.  

Their Buildings,  
† Beauplan. Descript. d' Ukraine, p. 3.  The Houses of this Country are generally of Wood, built in like manner as in Muscovy and Poland, and rarely above one Story high. The Walls of their Towns are most commonly made of Earth kept up with Stakes and Planks, such being most proper to resist the force of Cannon.  

Character,  
𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁𝄁 Hist. des Cosques, p. 32.  The Inhabitants of Vkraina are for the most part robust and strong, generous, and great Despisers of Covetousness, inconceivable Lovers of Liberty, and impatient under the mildest Slavery: They are likewise indefatigable, bold and brave, but withal excessive Drunkards, treacherous Friends, and perfidious Enemies: Their common Employments are Hunting and Fishing, and they are indifferently skilled in all the necessary Arts of Peace and War; but what they excel most in is, the preparing Saltpetre, with which they furnish several parts of Europe. They are moreover excellent in making Gunpowder.  
The Peasants of this and the Neighbouring Countries are very Slaves, being forced to work three or four days in a Week for their Lords gratis, and to pay besides several rigorous Duties; but still this is nothing, for their Lord's Power extends not only over their Goods, but also their Lives; wherefore it cannot be wondered at if these miserable Wretches have often rebelled, and defended their Liberty with great Obstinacy.  

Religion.  Their Religion is generally the Greek Persuasion, which they received in the Year 942, under the Reign of Vlodomir Prince of Russia; yet the greatest part of the Gentry profess either the Roman or Reformed Religion. These Greek Principles extend all over Muscovy, Moldavia, Valachia, Turkey and Persia. The Cosack Priests are called Pops, which in their Language signifies Guides.  
Their Fasts are very frequent and rigid, for than they not only abstain from Flesh, but also from Butter, Milk, Cheese, Eggs, etc. feeding only on Herbs, Pulse, Roots, and the like. There are some among them so excessive devout, that they will never eat Bread, nor drink Water but on Saturdays and Sundays. The Women court the Men in this Country, which is so common, that it is not at all thought immodest, for they speak only to the Person's Relations whom they design to make their Husband.  

Abundance of Flies and Locusls.  This Country is so very much incommoded by Flies, that in Summer the Inhabtaints are forced to fortify themselves several ways against them; but it abounds much more with Grasshoppers, who in a dry Season come in Clouds of five or six Leagues long, and four in breadth, and darken the Sky even at Noonday: wherever they settle they make a clean Harvest in less than two hours: They live but sixth Months. Where they reside in Aumun they lay their Eggs, each having about three hundred; these they hatch in the Spring, of which but very few prove addle: Great Rains, or a violent North-East Wind can only remove them. Before the young ones are strong enough to fly, they creep into the Houses, hop upon the Beds, Tables, Victuals, and the like, insomuch that scarce a bit can be swallowed without two or three of them along with it: At Night they lie in the Roads and Fields, which are most commonly covered with them above a Foot thick; and when a Couch or Wagon passes over them, it raises a most intolerable Stink.  

Language,  The Language of the Cosacks is a Dinlect of the Polish, as that is of the Sclavonian. It is very soft, and full of Diminutives, and consequently very delightful both to the Hearer and Speaker.  

Customs and Manners.  The chief Study of the Cosacks is Arms, which, though they practise for the most part on Horseback, yet they will sometimes alight to do the Duty of Foot. They endure the Hardships of War to a wonder, and will live upon little or nothing: They commonly content themselves with a sort of black Biscuit, which they eat with Garlic and Onions. They manage their Archibuss and Bow with great Dexterity, and also make use of a kind of Scimitar. They are very little acquainted with Luxury, only they love Aquavitae extremely, with which when mixed with Honey they will often get drunk.  

Customs and Manners in Peace and War.  They have all sorts of Handicrafts among them, and their Women are employed chiefly in spinning Linen and woollen. The Peasants understand perfectly all sorts of Agriculture; and the Inhabitants in general are well skilled in brewing Beer, making Mead, Aquavitae, etc. There is scarce any among them, of what Age, Sex or Condition soever, but will strive to outdo each other in drinking and carousing: and I believe there are no Christians in the World that are more careless or negligent, though they are by Nature almost capable of any thing. When they are in the Field against their Enemies, they are always extremely sober. Where the Cosacks show the most Courage is in their Tabords, which are certain Chariots they use to fight in; though by Sea also they are not contemptible, but on Horseback they are little worth, for two hundred Polanders would easily drive two thousand of their best Troopers; yet their Foot will stand to the last Extemity. When they discover any Vessel by Sea that they have a mind to take, they lie concealed with their Boats till about Midnight, when they row towards her with great Swiftness, and having encompassed her round, easily take her by Surprise. When they have drawn out all her Lading, they generally sink her, because they are not able to carry her off.  
Having thus given your Grace a short Account, by way of Digression, of the Cosacks, I will return to King Stephen, who having no Children, proposed to the Diet to elect his Successor while he lived, and that to prevent Disorders that usually happen in Interregnums; 
Batori is refused to name his Successor.  which this Grand Council would by no means condescend to, imagining he intended to force one of his Brother's Sons upon them, or else for fear of giving a bad Precedent for future Elections, which might tend in time to the utter abolishing of their Privileges and Power▪ This King, by the Solicitations of the Pope and other Christian Princes, being ready to engage in a War against the Turks, died after ten Years Reign, and about the fifty fourth Year of his Age, at Grodna in Lithuania, where he had established his Residence under pretence of its being a fine Country for hunting, though the true Reason is thought to have been, because he did not care to live with his Queen Ann, who was above sixty Years old when he married her.  

His Character.  He was a prudent and circumspect Prince, courageous, and just even to Severity. He not only enlarged his Dominions, but also settled a better Order in 'em than any before him; and I have heard the Poles speak of him with the greatest Respect and Veneration.  

His Death, Sept. 13. 1586.  On this Wise and Valiant Prince a certain Person composed the following Elegy, found in an ancient Manuscript.  

* Florus Polon. lib. 4. p. 349, etc.  In Templo plus quam Sacerdos.  
In Republicâ plus quam Rex.  
In Sententiâ dicendâ, plus quam Senator.  
In Judicio plus quam Jurisconsultus.  
In Exercitu plus quam Imperator.  
In Acie plus quam Miles.  
In Adversis perferendis, Injuriisque condonandis, plus quam Vir.  
In publicâ Libertate tuendâ, plus quam Civis.  
In Amicitiâ colenda, plus quam Amicus.  
In convictu, plus quam Familiaris.  
In Venatione, ferisque domandis, plus quam Leo.  
In totâ reliquâ vitâ plus quam philosophus.  
The Death of Batori put Poland into the same Confusion it had been in twice before, from the time of Sigismundus Augustus. The Provincial Diets assembled in 1587., whose business it was to secure the Frontiers from Invasion, and settle the Peace of the Republic. Next the Primate Stanislaus Karnkowski notified the Death of the King according to 
A Diet called.  Custom, and called a General Diet to meet at Warsaw in March, where it was afterwards agreed that the Diet of Election should meet in June following.  
The Lutherans contended so high for their share in the Government, that for Peace sake they had more granted them than the ancient Laws of the Kingdom allowed: For in this Assembly their Party was so strong, that they not only obtained Toleration, but also perpetual 
The Lutherans obtain Liberty of Conscience.  Liberty of Conscience. This the Bishops vigorously opposed, which made the Primate and Bishop of Vladislaw leave the Diet dissatisfied, when Demetrius Sulikowski Archbishop of Leopol, presiding in the Assembly, in conjunction with Laurence Goslicki Bishop of Caminiec, considering the Confusion occasioned by the Absence of the Primate, thought it either necessary to comply with the Lutherans, or to dismiss the Diet; but the Bishop of Caminiec at last found a midway, which was to grant the Lutherans their Demands, but withal to insert a Clause, that what had been done at that Session was merely to preserve the Public Peace.  
The time of the Election being come, Christopher Zborowski, who was banished during Batori's Reign, and now recalled by the Power of the Lutherans, appeared at the head of 500 French, with as many Germans and Lutherans 
The Lutheran and Catholic Factions  as amounted to near 10000 Men; with these Stanislaus de Gorka, Palatin of Posnania, joined: He was a Person of Wit, and extremely popular; for though he was crook-backed, yet his great Estate and generous way of spending of it made him looked upon with universal Esteem. Zamoski was also at the head of a considerable number of Troops, which, though they were fewer than those of the opposite Party, yet were they much better disciplined; with these he encamped within two Miles of Warsaw, and entrenched himself within Lines of Circumvallation.  
The wiser part of the Diet having a mind to accommodate these two Factions, ordered them Audience one after another, forbidding either to appear in Arms before them. They also showed an Inclination to reverse what had been decreed in favour of the Lutherans, which these last would by no means hear of, 
Not to be ●●nit●●d.  promising themselves a sufficient Defence from their Number, which Zamoski ridiculed, relying upon the better Discipline of his Followers.  
The Lutherans perceiving there was no Justice to be expected from the Diet, without any regard to their Orders, came in Arms before them: After which they retired, complaining that they were deprived of their Liberties. This had soon occasioned a Rok●●z 
The Lutherans 〈◊〉.  (being an Association in which the Gentry are obliged to engage when they are oppressed) had not the Primate timely prevented it. During all this the Lithuanians had not yet declared themselves; and it may be it would 
Suppressed.  have been difficult to have known their Minds, had not a Confusion given them occasion to explain them.  

Three Factions.  There were three Factions at this Election, whose Power was almost equal. The first was that of Lithuania, which was for electing Theodore Odonowic, Great Duke of Muscovy, he having proffered to unite his Dominions to those of Poland. This Proposal might have been thought plausible enough had it been made by any but Muscovites. The hopes several of the Gentry gave the Czar were apparently only to amuse him, fearing he might invade the Kingdom during the Interregnum. The second Party was that of Zborowski and Gorka Palatin of Posnania; they were entirely in the Interest of Maximilian Archduke of Austria, Brother to the Emperor Rhodolph. These 
* Heidenstein Rerum Polon. lib. 8. p. 253. col. 1.  Anibal of Capua the Pope's Nuncio joined notwithstanding they were Lutherans, yet he all along fed them up more with Promises than Presents. The third Faction was that of the Senate, being the strongest of the three, by reason that Zamoski with the Flower of the Polish Army was on their side.  
It was much doubted upon which of the 
Several Candidates.  Competitors the Election would fall. The Czar of Muscovy and a Piasto were talked of only for fashion-sake. The Batori's of Transilvania had their Envoys at the Diet, but they had no other Orders from their Masters, than to demand the Personal Estate of the late King, when, had they asked the Crown likewise, it is highly probable some regard might have been had to Batori's Family. Sweden was upon the Roll a third time, though its King John had been rejected in the two former Elections, by reason he was thought a Lutheran; but by the Catholic Liturgy published in that Kingdom in 1575., the Poles were disabused in that Opinion, wherefore his Son Sigismond was no longer suspected; for the Poles had occasion to oppose some great Power to the House of Austria, and what could be sitter for that purpose than the Family of Jagello, from which Sigismond was descended by his Mother? King John also caused his Emissaries to give out that Lithuania of right belonged to his Son, as being of the Jagellonick Race. This bold Claim might well have raised a War between Sweden and Poland, had not the latter prudently thought fit to avoid it.  

The Lutherans Policy.  In the mean time the Lutherans were firmly disposed to Maximilians Interest, but Zamoski broke all their Measures: They had a mind to kidnap the Primate, but by the Advice of this General he retired to the Castle of Warsaw. Nevertheless Cardinal Radzivil, to whom the House of Austria had given a Principality, declared for Maximilian, as likewise did several others by his Example. This augmented the Courage of the Lutherans, yet did not in the least diminish that of Zamoski's Followers; both Parties were like to come to Blows, had not the Bishops mounted on Horseback and interposed.  
While these Prelates were thus doing their Duty, the Pope's Nuncio, though lame, clambered up the highest Tower in Warsaw to view the Army: He doubted not but his Friends the Lutherans would get the better, their Number being greater. At this the Catholics were extremely offended, and used to say that Maximilians Interest must needs fall, being only supported by a Hook-back and a Cripple.  
The Lutherans perceiving that both the Name and Family of Maximilian were odious to the Poles, agreed together to relinquish him, and propose the Czar, by which means they brought over to their Party those who were neither for Maximilian nor Sigismond.  

Ministers admitted to Audience.  After this the several Ambassadors had their Audience; the Pope's Nuncio spoke first, and made his Harangue chiefly on the good Qualities of Maximilian; but this Candidate was not better liked of than his Orator, or his Panegyric. Stanislaus Pawlowski, the Emperor's Minister, was heard next, who run also out in Commendation of his Master's Brother; but from whom there being more Ill to be feared than Good to be hoped, his fine Speech was but little minded. Then came the Ambassadors of Sueden to be introduced, which were 
* Heidenstein lib. 8. p. 256. col. 2.  Eric Sparre Senator and Grand Chancellor of that Kingdom, and Eric Brahé Great Master of Prince Sigismund's Household. These insinuated that their Master did not send sooner, because he knew the great Affection the Poles always bore the Jag●●llonick Family, of which his Son was descended. They made no great Proffers, knowing well that the fear of Maximilians carrying it would not give the Diet leave to ask that of them which at other Conjunctures they would surely have demanded.  
The Primate being not unmindful of the fright the Lutherans had put him into when they formed a Design to carry him away, had a mind to make a speedy End of the business the Assembly met about; and therefore, without 
Election.  being deterred by any Threats, proceeded to an Election the 9th of August 1587. At which time the Number of the Lutherans was much lessened, Gorka their Leader having ahused several of them; wherefore, to be revenged, they went over to the contrary Party. Upon the Poll, the Majority of Voices was found for  

Sigismond III. 1587.  SIGISMOND DE VASA, whom consequently the Primate proclaimed King of Poland. After the usual Acclamations the Assembly separated; and the Archbishop, accompanied by the Senate and Gentry, went directly to the Cathedral of Warsaw to give Thanks for having so happily ended this great and dangerous Affair. Hereupon Ambassadors were immediately dispatched to Su●●den to bring the new King notice of his Election, and that his Coronation was designed to be the 7th of October following.  
Whilst the Catholics were thus labouring at the Election of a King, the Palatine Gorka and those of Zborowski's Party minded nothing 
Lutheran Party dissents;  but Drinking; yet when they heard of what had happened, they were extremely surprised; but at the same time endeavouring to repair their Faults, they fell into much greater. They immediately protested against the Election as both Irregular and Illegal. Their Assembly ordained, that the King that was to be chosen should annul all that had been done against Christopher Zborowski during the late Reign. They likewise made several other Regulations, which were all so very extravagant, that they were but little regarded. To this Faction the Gentry of Lithuania offered their Mediation, which yet they would not accept of, declaring they were resolved to elect Maximilian. Whereupon on the 21st of August, Gorka, with his Associates, proclaimed Maximilian King 
Elects and Proclaims Maximilian;  of Poland, and sent Ambassadors to acquaint him therewith. Whilst this was doing, the Lithuanians declared against both Elections, and thereby disengaged themselves from favouring either Party, till they saw which was like to have the better.  
The Diet as yet was luckily not dissolved; 
But pronounced Traitors by the Diet.  which Assembly pronounced the Election of Maximilian Seditious, and immediately nulled all that the Lutherans had done: but as the best Considerations become useless, if there be not force sufficient to put them in execution, they at the same time provided for the safety of the Kingdom against the Attempts of Maximilian and his Party; for this Prince was then but at Olmitz in Moravia, and therefore might quickly have come into Poland, when Sigismond had not yet passed the Baltic, which is a very dangerous Sea in Autumn. The Diet, before they separated, charged Zamoski with the Care of the Commonwealth.  

A Comical Prophecy.  I may here acquaint your Grace of a famous ginger or Magician, who happening to dine with Zamoski some hours before Sigismond was chosen, that General asked him, If he could tell by his Art who should be elected King? To which this Person, after a little Consideration, replied, Quem Deus volet: Which Answer not in the least satisfying Zamoski, was but little regarded by him. The next day after the Election, the same ginger sent a Note into the Assembly, addressed to Zamoski with these Words: Sir, You understood not yesterday the Answer which I made you, but now read the word 
† Sued.  Deus backwards, and you will find the Mystery explained.  

The two Candidates come into Poland.  Afterwards Maximilian and Sigismond both arrived in Poland. The latter being at Oliva, a Monastery near Dantzic, received the Oath of Fidelity; and preparing to march towards Cracow, which the former then besieged, for want of Troops was forced to retire to Rava. The Archduke hoped to have taken this Place by the Intelligence he had with the Germans which inhabited the Suburbs, who had promised him to harbour two Regiments in their Houses, which might seize on the weakest Gate, and so let him into the City; but this Stratagem was detected by Zamoski, who marching to raise that Siege, had notice of these Designs; whereupon first suffering the two Regiments to enter, he set fire to the Suburbs, and burned them and their Friends together.  

Maximilian routed by the Polish General.  Afterwards the Siege was raised, but the Archduke did not go far off from the City, but drew up in Order of Battle in a Great Plain, which infinitely pleased Zamoski, who had no less Inclination to fight than he. At length they came to Blows, and the Fight lasted two Hours; but in the end Maximilian being defeated, retired to Cestochow, whither Zamoski did not think it proper to follow him. A little while after Sigismond came to Cracow, where he was harangued by the Bishop of Caminiec, whom he answered in the Polish Language which his Mother had taught him. His Entry was ushered in with that Solemnity, which was thought almost impossible to have been performed in time of War. After some Difficulties surmounted, his Coronation was fixed for the 27th of December following, when he was Crowned by the 
Sigisimund Crowned.  Archbishop of Gnesna. The Lutherans still insisted upon those Demands they had formerly made, which were fain to be granted them, because Maximilian was again ready to take the Field, notwithstanding his last Defeat.  
In 1588., the Archduke came again into Poland, and Zamoski marched directly to meet him; but Maximilian expecting more Assistance, went aside into Silesia, whither he thought the Enemy would not dare to follow him: But this valiant General not only overtook and fought him, but also routed and took him Prisoner in the City of Biczycna, after having belieged it some small time. Having taken this noble Prisoner, Zamoski gave him all the respect due to a Person of his Quality; and moreover, that he might not appear under confinement at Cracow, which he had formerly besieged, he left him in the Citadel of Crasnostow, whence Zborowski's Party were like to have recovered him, had not their Design been discovered by Mark Sobieski Governor of that Place. In all other Respects, Zamoski treated his Prisoner very honourably, which gained so much upon the Archduke, that he afterwards stood Godfather to one of his Children.  

Maximilian beaten again and made Prisoner.  The taking of Maximilian, with all his Artillery and Baggage, was not the only good Event of this Victory, for hereupon the Malcontents immediately acknowledged Sigismond. Also Zamoski's generous Usage towards the other Prisoners, whom he released all upon their Parole, contributed very much to confirm Sigismond in the Throne. The Kingdom of Poland now was become no more a matter of Dispute. All the House of Austria aimed at, was to procure the Archduke's liberty, which at length was obtained through the Mediation of the Pope, who sent Cardinal Hyppolito Aldobrandin into Poland to treat of his Ransom, which by that means was rated much lower than the House of Austria could have expected: For although it was urged to Sigismond, that as Charles the Vth dealt formerly by the King of France on the like occasion, so he ought to have a Sum of Money paid down suitable to the great Quality of his Prisoner; yet Sigismond answered, That it was 
Offered Liberty on honourable Terms.  to no purpose to propose Charles the Vth as an Example in this Case, since that Prince had been guilty of an Action unbecoming his Grandeur: When, for his part, he did not look upon it sufficient Advantage to have got the better of his Enemy, unless he likewise had the Glory to give him his Liberty, and not to make him buy it. By this Mediation Maximilian was to quit for ever his Title to the Kingdom of Poland, to restore some Places which had been surrendered to him, and to remain in a perpetual Amity with Poland; to all which the Emperor his Brother was made Guarantee. But although these Conditions were so very reasonable, yet Maximilian would not ratify them till 1589. Wherefore his Wilfulness detained him in Prison 
Dissents.  till that time, when he escape 〈◊〉 to his Parole of Honour. Nevertheless, he was afterwards brought to sign them by the Power 
Consents.  his Brother had over him.  

Sigismond 's Marriage.  
* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 105, etc.  Sigismond III was first married to Ann Daughter of Charles Archduke of Austria; and after her Death to Constantia her Sister, by both which he had three Sons, Vladislaus by the former, and Casimir and Ferdinand by the latter, the two first succeeding him in the Kingdom. When the King his Father was dead he went into Swedeland, and was there 
Crowned King of Sweden, 1592.  likewise crowned King of that Country in the Year 1592., on condition that every fifth Year he should come and reign over Sweden in Person; but being engaged in a long War against the Muscovites, Turks and Tartars, he could not be spared in fifteen Years, and therefore sent a Senate of Jesuits to govern them and suppress the Lutherah Doctrine, which was then mightily spread in that Country. 
* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 105.  Here it must be observed, that this King's Mother Catherine strictly adhered to the Roman Church by the permission of her Husband John III. King of Sweden, who also leaned a little that way. Whereupon, when Sigismund's Tutor Arnold Grothusius would have seduced him from that Persuasion, his Father John being in a great Passion, and drawing his Sword upon the Tutor, cried, I will have my Son educated in hopes of both Kingdoms, meaning his own and that of Poland.  
These Jesuits the King ordered to be received with the same Honour as if he himself had come in Person; at which the Swedes being grievously nettled, sunk them in the Harbour of Stockholm in the Ship that brought 
Deposed, and Charl. IX. proclaimed in Sweden.  'em from Dantzic, and immediately thereupon proclaimed Charles Duke of Sudermannia, Sigismund's Uncle, their King, who had embraced Lutheranism some time before, and which the Swedes have professed ever since. This occasioned bloody Wars between these two Nations; but Sigismond being likewise engaged with other Countries, was forced to accept of a dishonourable Truce. In the beginning of this War King Charles IX. took a great many places from the Poles in Livonia, most of which were afterwards retaken by the Polish General and Chancellor Zamoski. Besides this the King of Sweden was vanquished in a great Battle fought near Kirckholm and Riga, where he narrowly escaped himself: but some intestine Divisions arising between the King and Nobility of Poland, he got time to recover Breath.  

What caused the War with the Muscovites.  The occasion of the Wars between the Poles and Muscovites was this: A certain Person coming into Poland, pretended to be Demetrius' Son to John Basilowitz, Great Duke of Muscovy, and that he was to have been murdered by order of Boris Gudenow, afterwards Grand Duke, who hoped thereby to secure the Succession after the Death of Theodore, eldest Son of the said Duke, but that another had been killed in his stead. Hereupon he found so great Encouragement from George Mniszeck, Palatin of Sendomir, that he married his Daughter to him; and by the Assistance of some other Polish Lords, gathered together a great Army, and marched with Demetrius into Muscovy, when Boris Gudenow, then Grand Duke, happening to die suddenly, he was received by the Muscovites, and proclaimed Czar in Moscow. Hereupon he sent into Poland for his Bride; but while the Nuptials were celebrating in Moscow, the People, suspecting him to be an Impostor, gathered together, raised a Tumult, and attacked the Castle, where they cut to pieces Demetrius with most of the Poles that came along with him and his Bride, and took her Prisoner. Then Basilius Suski, descended from the Grand Dukes by the Mother's side, having got together about ●●0000 Men, was proclaimed Czar: immediately after which a Rumour being spread abroad that Demetrius had escaped, though Suski had taken care to expose his Body to view, which was so mangled that none could know him, and a Person pretending to be him, the Poles acknowledged him as such; whereupon they together with the Cosacks assisted this Person to recover his pretended Right, and several times beat Suski, and obliged him to set at liberty the Captive Bride. She also acknowledged this Demetrius for her Husband; but whether he was really so or not, could never yet be determined. Sigismond laid hold of this opportunity, to try at least whether he could recover Smolensko and Severia; whereupon he besieged the former in the Year 1609, but could not make himself Master of it till the Year 1611, when he took it by storm. In the mean time the Poles, who had hitherto sided with Demetrius, were recalled by Sigismond, who thought it not convenient that so considerable a part of his Forces should be under the Command of another. By the removal of this Army Suski had leisure to recover himself; whereupon with the Assistance sent him out of Sweden, he marched directly against the Poles, who then were besieging Smolensko, but was shamefully defeated by them near Clusin. By this Overthrow the Affairs of the Muscovites were again in a very dangerous Condition; wherefore to avoid the danger, they resolved to depose Suski (who by his Misfortunes became odious to them) and to offer their Crown to Vladislaus, Sigismund's Son. This Suski was afterwards surrendered to the Poles, and died at Warsaw in Prison. Whereupon Vladislaus marching towards that Country with a powerful Army in the Year 1610, and they hearing of it, thinking he came rather to conquer than accept their Crown, unanimously revolted against him, especially when they heard that Demetrius had been murdered by the Tartars who were his Guards. Hereupon Prince Vladislaus his Expedition was made to no purpose, he being forced to make a Truce with the Muscovites for fourteen Years, whereby it was agreed, that in the mean time the Poles should keep in their possession the several Dukedoms of Severia, Zernikow and Novogrod, which they had taken during the late Troubles in Muscovy. In the mean time George Farenbach surrendered several Places in Livonia to the King of Sweden, Gustavus Adolphus: but it was suspected that he intended to betray that King; for soon after the said Farenbach was reconciled to King Sigismond, to whom he restored all the Places except Pernau.  

The Poles in War with the Turks▪  In the Year 1620, the Poles were engaged in a War against the Turks, fomented, as was supposed, by Bethlem Gabor Prince of Transilvania, for which the Turks afterwards endeavoured to banish that Prince for siding with the Poles. In the Year following the Turks marched with their whole Forces against Poland, but were met by the Poles near Chocim under the Command of Prince Vladistaus, who with an Army of about 65000 Men, repulsed above 392000 Turks commanded by their Emperor Osman in Person. The Turks attempted three times to force the Polish Camp, but were as often beat back with Loss. Nevertheless in the mean time the Poles suffered extremely for want of Ammunition and Provisions, and besides were mightily weakened by Sickness and a huge Mortality among their Horses. Notwithstanding all this, at length the Turkish Emperor was forced to strike up an honourable Peace with them after having lost about 60000 Men in the several Attacks he made upon their Camp, and a greater number in his March back to Constantinople.  

Invasion by Gustavus Adolphus.  In the mean time Gustavus Adolphus falling into Livonia, took the City of Riga without any great Resistance; and all the rest of that Country except Dunneburgh was conquered likewise by the Swedes in the Year 1625. Afterwards Gustavus entered Prussia in the Year 1626., where he took the Cities of Marienburg and Elbing, besides some other Places. This War was thus carried on without any general Engagement till the Year 1629, when Hans Wrangel the Swedish General defeated the Poles near Gorzno. Then the Emperor sent some Forces to the Assistance of the Poles, who in a Battle fought near Stuma were very near having made Gustavus Prisoner. But however, the Polish Affairs after this Battle falling into great Confusion, they were forced to clap up a Truce till the Year 1634, by the Mediation of Charles the First, King of England, and of Lewis the Thirteenth of France; the Swedes in the mean while being to keep possession of Elbing, Mcmel, Braunsberg, Pillau, and what besides they had taken in Livonia.  

Sigismund's Death.  After this Sigismond died the last day of April in the Year 1632, being sixty Years old, and having reigned forty four.  

His Character.  
* Bizardiere, p. 89.  He had all the Qualities that could be required in a great Prince: He loved Justice, and all the World commended his Piety. He was always of an even Temper either in good or bad Fortune; and the Lustre of the Polish Crown obtained when he was but young, together with the loss of the Kingdom of Sweden to his Uncle, might well have either exalted or debased him, had he not had a great Soul: yet among all these good Qualities, he was too much wedded to his Opinion, which was the cause of some Misfortunes that happened to him.  
Prince Vladislaus was absent when his Father Sigismond fell sick, yet he arrived at Court just as he was expiring, whose Presence so much revived the King, as to give him Power to put the Crown of Sweden on his Son's Head, though he was to leave that of Poland to Chance. This Election was much 
A peaceable Election.  more peaceable than his Father Sigismund's, in that he had no Competitors to oppose him. Some thought Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden had a design upon the Crown; and his boundless Ambition, joined with the great Number of his Friends the Lutherans, dispersed throughout the whole Kingdom, might very well support that Opinion: yet the Gentry of Great Poland which were most to be suspected on account of Conformity in Religion with him, were the first that strove to exclude him; for they declared those Enemies to their Country, that should in the least dare to propose him. Likewise at another Assembly, a Palatin offering but to insinuate that it would be proper to choose a Foreign Prince, the Gentry were so unanimously offended at him, that he was fain to retire betimes to avoid their Fury. Also Gustavus Adolphus had then too many Irons in the Fire, to draw any more Enemies upon his Back.  

Prince Casimir suspected for a Competitor.  John Casimir, Brother to Prince Vladislaus, was likewise suspected to have a mind to the Crown, and this Conjecture had a more plausible Foundation than the former. These two Princes were both Sons to Sigismond III. yet had they not the same Mother. That of Casimir did all she could to advance her Son to the Throne: At the Diet met at Thorn she endeavoured to have a Successor elected whilst the King was living; whereupon she employed a certain Bishop to propose her Son, but with which the Diet was so extremely incensed, that they would have immediately tried that Prelate for infringing the Public Liberties, had not more weighty Affairs intervened which caused them to lay those Intentions aside. During this Prince Casimir did all he could to satisfy the Public that he had no Design upon the Crown, but that all his Aim was to promote the Interest of his elder Brother.  

A Diet called;  The Primate John Vezik having notified the Death of the late King, convened the Diet on the 27 th' of June, where the Lutherans continued their Cabals and Factions as formerly, but did not favour any of Vladislaus his Competitors as before. The Diet of Election was fixed for the 27 th' of September in the same Year, whither the Gentry all flocked at the time appointed, but that more to ingratiate themselves in their Prince Vladislaus' favour, than to sell their Suffrages. One thing was proposed at this Diet, which had it been followed, might have delivered the Kingdom from great Oppressions. This was to digest the Laws into a Code, and to get the King Elect to confirm it: Also to reform the many Abuses crept into the Practice of the Law; but this was too vigorously opposed by the interessed Party, and therefore was fain to be let fall.  

Proceeds to Election.  Hereupon the Diet devoted themselves wholly to the Election: Prince Casimir first proposed his BrotherVladislaus, which Henry Firley Bishop of Premislia seconded by a Speech to this purpose, That though that Assembly had a Right to elect whom they pleased, yet they had ever had a particular regard to the Offspring of their Kings; that every body there acknowledged the Candidate to be of the Blood of Jagello: That even the Merit of his Father pleaded for the Interest of the Son: That Uladislaus his own Conquests had sufficiently testified his Valour; and lastly, that a favourable Result was to be expected from that Assembly, since each knew as much of the Merit of that Prince as he. This was courteously answered by the Primate; after which they proceeded to admit the Ambassadors.  

Foreign Ministers admitted.  First Honorius Visconti, the Pope's Nuncio, had Audience; who being placed on the left hand of the Primate, first desired the Assembly to choose a Catholic Prince, and then recommended Prince Vladislaus. Next the Ambassadors of the Emperor and King of Sweden contended for Prior Admittance, when the latter being prevented by the Gout, or at least so feigning it, was forced to yield. The Emperor's Minister therefore was introduced, who in the Name of his Master recommended likewise Prince Vladislaus. Afterwards the Swedish Embassador's Indisposition gave him leave to be admitted; he proposed a strict Alliance between Sweden and Poland, in case the Diet would elect none of Sigismund's Issue, but on condition that he should first renounce all Right to the Kingdom of Sweden. This Proposal was not at all approved of: and there was something else said also by this Minister which mightily displeased the Diet; yet at that time they thought it better to dissemble their Dislike, than provoke so powerful a Prince as Gustavus by a Resentment.  

Dantzic first allowed a Vote.  At this Diet the City of Dantzic had a great Favour granted them, which was for the future to have a Vote at the Election of the Kings of Poland; which Privilege had never been granted before but to the Cities of Cracow and Vilna, one being Capital of Poland, and the other of Lithuania. Prince  

Uladislaus VII. 1632.  ULADISLAUS was chosen the 13th of November 1632. when he took the usual Oaths, was proclaimed by the Primate, and afterwards crowned on the 18th of February 1633.  

His Marriage.  He was first married to Coecilia Renata, Daughter to the Emperor Ferdinand II. and afterwards to the Princess Mary Ludovica di Gonzaga, Daughter to the Duke of Nevers of the House of Mantua. The Kings of France always matched the Princesses of Nevers and Nemours, as Princesses of the Blood, to Crowned Heads.  

His Wars  The Year after his Election, Vladislaus not only forced the Muscovites to raise the Siege of Smolensko, and obtained a signal Victory over them, but likewise brought their Army to such Extremities, that they surrendered themselves; and the Turks, who had made a Diversion, were also at the same time bravely repulsed. Not long after Vladislaus made an advantageous Peace with the Muscovites, by virtue of which they renounced their Protensions to the two large Dukedoms of Smolensko and Zernikow, which begat such a Terror in the Turks, that they also freely made Restitution for the Damages sustained in their last Incursion, and strangled their Bassa who commanded those Forces. He forced likewise the Swedes to restore him those Places they possessed in Prussia, and to prolong the Truce for 26 Years; which they the easier consented to, by reason that their Affairs in Germany were but in an ill Condition after the Battle of Norlinguen.  

* Heidenstein lib. XI. p. 327, etc.  In the Year 1637, the Foundation of the 
With the Cosacks.  War with the Cosacks was laid, which brought unspeakable Damages upon the Poles, and which was occasioned thus. The Privileges the Cosacks had obtained from King Stephen, made them to increase in Number, and grow much stronger than they were before; for the Peasants of all the neighbouring Countries, having been exceedingly oppressed by their Lords, to deliver themselves from Slavery, ran in great Numbers into the ukraine, whereby the Cosacks soon grew very formidable both to the Poles and Turks, which emboldened them to make frequent Incursions into Turkey, and which was afterwards the occasion of many bloody Wars between these two Nations. The Great Men of Poland having purchased divers Estates in Vkraina, thought their. Revenues might be considerably augmented, if the Privileges of the Cosacks were but reduced to a narrower Compass; and if instead of plundering their Neighbours the Turks, they were restrained to manure the Ground, and live upon the Products of their own Labour. Whereupon the Poles prevailed upon their King Vladislaus to send General Konicepoliski to reduce them. Hereupon at first the Cosacks made a vigorous Resistance, and opposed the Building of the Fortress Hudack just at a Point, where the River Zwamer falls into the Boristhenes. But being at last entirely defeated by the Poles, they were obliged to surrender their General Paulack, with some others of the chiefest among them, who, notwithstanding a Pardon promised them beforehand, were all beheaded. Besides this, it was decreed in the Diet, that all their former Privileges, together with the Fortress of Tectimoravia, granted them by King Stephen, should be taken from them, and a new Body of Militia settled there in their stead. To put this Decree in execution, the Polish Army marched forthwith into the ukraine, but were opposed by the Cosacks with great Bravery; who yet nevertheless promised to be faithful to the Crown of Poland, Provided their ancient Privileges might be continued to them; which the Poles readily agreed to, but however never performed: Nay, treated several of them very ill; for among other oppressive Methods, they took from them some of their Greek Churches. Afterwards the Cosacks recovered in some measure under their General Bogdan Chmielinski, who having been justly enraged by Jarinski's ravishing his Wife, and afterwards murdering both her and her Son, resolved on some Expedient to revenge this Affront, and rid his Country of the Tyranny of the Polish Government.  

* Constit. Ann. 1647. p. 9 tit. Ordinacya Poszty.  In this King's Reign Posts were first used in Poland, settled after the Germane manner, in the Year 1647.  

His Death.  King Vladislaus, after an indifferently happy Reign, died of a malignant Fever at Merick in Lithuania the 20th of May, in the Year 1648. The Muscovites vanquished under his Reign; The Turks forced to sue for Peace; The Inclination he ever had to oblige every body, and the concern he was always under, when it was out of his Power to give sufficient Proofs of his Liberality, were powerful Motives to induce the Poles to regret his Loss, whose Consternation was the more augmented after his Death by their Defeat, and the taking of divers Places by the Cosacks, for want of him. Vladislaus leaving no Issue, his Brother  

John Casimir. 1648.  JOHN CASIMIR, who had led a religious Life for some time, and was afterwards created 
* Piasecius ad Annum 1648. fol. 599.  Cardinal by Innocent the Xth. succeeded him, being elected King in the same Year that his Brother died, with the following Circumstances.  
The Primate Mathias Lubienski having signified the Death of the late King by Circular 
A Diet called;  Letters, and convened a Diet to meet on the 25th of June, (the Diet of Election having been fixed for the 6th of October) all the Senators and Deputies met at the time appointed; but there were no such Heats and Intrigues among them as formerly, by reason that the Cosacks and Tartars had raised too great Disorders in Poland for them to think of any thing at that time but Union: for the News of such prodigious Preparations made against them, were enough to stagger any Resolution but that of the Polanders, whose Valour has generally procured them the greatest Success.  
Hereupon Orders were immediately issued out to raise Troops to oppose these cruel Invaders; 
Proceeds to Election.  and afterwards the Gentry proceeded to the Election of a Successor to the Throne, at which time no body thought that Prince Casimir, who was then complimented with the Title of King of Sueden, would have had any Competitor; for the Great Duke of Muscovy, and the Prince of Transylvania, who both put in for the Crown, were looked upon to have little or no Interest.  
The Czar very bluntly demanded the Crown, or upon refusal threatened to come and force a Compliance: But George Ragozzi seemed to have recourse to a milder Method; yet though he offered his Army of 30000 Men to the Republic to assist them against their Enemies, he was suspected to have designed it against them. But at length the Threats of the one, and Promises of the other, had no better Effect than that they were both equally despised and rejected.  

Prince Casimir opposed.  The Competitor that Casimir expected least, was Prince Charles Ferdinand Bishop of Breslaw in Silesia, and Ploczko in Poland, who solicited the Crown for his Brother, but designed it for himself. It was believed he had written into Sueden to engage the Queen in his Interest. He had also lent a Million to raise Troops; but this seemed no extraordinary Policy, since his Brother Prince Casimir had before been declared Generalissimo of the Army. Stanislaus Zaremba, Bishop of Kiovia, was thought to have given Ferdinand this bad Counsel, thinking if he could advance that Prince, he might withal procure himself the chief Dignity in the Kingdom, the Archbishop of Gnesna being then fourscore Years old, and therefore not likely to live long.  

His Character and Travels.  Prince Casimir had always shown an uncommon Virtue in all his Actions. He loved War, and had ever a great Inclination for Travel: Whereupon in 1638, he embarked at Genoa for Spain with design to assist that Kingdom against France; but being taken in Provence, he was kept two Years, till he was restored to his Brother Vladislaus by means of an Embassy sent to the Court of France. This Disgrace which happened to this Prince, did not hinder him from undertaking other Voyages; for in 1643, he left Poland a second time, and passing by Loretto, became a Jesuit there, without acquainting the King his Brother therewith. To withdraw him honourably from this Company, and prevent the Public from blaming his Inconstancy, Pope Innocent the Xth made him Cardinal in 1646, which Dignity Casimir seen after resigned; for his Brother's Son dying in 1647, and his Brother being neither like to have any more Children, nor to live long, he prudently bethought himself of other Measures: wherefore in 1647, he sent his Renunciation to his Holiness by Francis Fredt de Moulinet, a French Gentleman, a Person he had always cherished and employed upon divers Occasions, and whose approved Fidelity made him often say, That a Prince was always better served by Strangers than by his own Subjects.  
This Retreat of Casimir among the Jesuits, 
Like to be excluded.  gave occasion to the Bishop of Kiovia to labour at his Exclusion, in which he was zealously assisted by the Protestants, who mortally hated that Society. This Bishop likewise imagined he had got the major part of the Gentry on his side, who seemed also dissatisfied with the Jesuits; but he was not a little mistaken, for Prince Casimir being the Elder, and King Vladislaus his Brother having recommended him by his Will to the States, the Faction against him only retarded his Election for a few days, the Senate in that time having a mind to reconcile the two Brothers.  
The 6th of October began the Diet of Election, where almost all were unanimous, and only studied to hinder the Progress of the Cosacks. First John de Torres, Archbishop of 
Foreign Ministers admitted.  Adrianople, the Pope's Nuncio, the young Marquis of Grana Ambassador from the Emperor, the Count of Arpajou Ambassador Extraordinary, together with the Viscount of Bregi Ambassador in Ordinary from France, recommended the Interest of Prince Casimir; whereupon, the 29th of the same Month, John Tyskiewitz Bishop of Samogitia, made an elegant Harangue in his behalf, alleging the Case of Casimir the IId. who had retired into the Abbey of Clunie, but nevertheless was not excluded the Throne.  
The next day the Minister of Ragozzi, Prince of Transylvania, had Audience, who, contrary to all Expectation, recommended Prince Casimir; yet at the same time insinuated, that if they did not think fit to elect him, his Master, who had always had so sincere Affection for Poland, would gladly be their Prince. The Diet, although they detested his Flattery, yet expressed themselves grateful to his Master for the kindness he had professed.  
The 3d of November Prince Ferdinand's Ambassadors were introduced with the Bishop of Kiovia at their Head. The Proffers these made were received with a great deal of Indifference; but when the Bishop began to speak with disrespect of Prince Casimir, he was soon silenced by a universal Confusion of Voices, which seemed all to be against him. Whereupon Prince Ferdinand sent forthwith his Excuses, and publicly resigned his Pretensions to his Brother; which prevailed so far upon Casimir, that he granted him his Friendship; and moreover, made him a Present of the Principalities of Oppolen and Ratibor in Silesia, and likewise reimbursed the Charges he had been at to oppose him in his Election; which generous Usage so influenced Ferdinand, that he expressed less Joy for all these noble Presents than Sorrow for having been concerned against so deserving a Brother.  

Casimir elected.  The 17th began the Election, when all Obstacles being removed, Casimir had been proclaimed the same day, if his Ambassadors had signed the Articles proposed to them; but nevertheless on the 20th, he was admitted to the Throne on the same Conditions with his Father Sigismond.  

His Marriage.  He married, by the Pope's Dispensation, the Queen-Dowager Mary Ludovica his Brother's Queen. She being a French Lady, and meddling too much with Affairs of State, perhaps with design to promote a Successor of her own Country, is thought to have contributed in great measure towards the Troubles which 
His Wars.  afterwards ensued. Soon after he came to the Crown, the Cosack General Chmielinski began to put in practice his Revenge: Whereupon calling the Tartars to his Assistance, he marched at the Head of a formidable Army into Poland; where burning, plundering and ravaging wherever he came, he did all the Mischief he could, defeated the Polish Army, took the City of Kiovia, and afterwards besieged Leopol, Capital of Russia, with an Army of near 300000 Men, yet could never take it, though its Fortifications are but very inconsiderable. They nevertheless ravaged the Country all about it for many Leagues together. To revenge which Affront, the Poles summoned the seventh Man throughout the whole Kingdom, and marched against the Cosacks without the Consent of their King, who had before refused to head them, but were again miserably beaten. Nevertheless the King's Army at other times had considerable Advantages over them; for though they found they were not able to fight them, yet they fatigued and weakened them so, that they were forced to call the Muscovites likewise to help them forward with their intended Work. Whilst some put themselves under the Protection of Muscovy, others had recourse to the Port, so irreconcilable were they ever to have any more to do with the Crown of Poland, and have been so ever since to their own Ruin, and the great Disadvantage of the Poles. The only Damage they sustained, was, when Chmielinski was celebrating the Nuptials of his Son with the Daughter of the Prince of Valachia, where the Poles surprised them, retook the City of Kiovia and plundered it, as likewise made the Grecian Patriarch Prisoner. Then the Cosacks sent to the King to know if this had been done by his Majesty's Order; which being answered in the Negative, and moreover, that the Nobility had done it to be revenged on them for the frequent Damages they had done them, they immediately, in conjunction with the Tartars, fell into Poland with the greatest Fury imaginable. Against these the King went in Person at the Head of the Nobility, and defeated them in Battle. But nevertheless the King was afterwards forced to clap up a Peace with them, though the Gentry were very much displeased at his granting them their own Terms, by which the Muscovites were left in possession of Smolensko and Kiovia, which they enjoy to this day. The Muscovites likewise took Vilna in Lithuania, with some other considerable Cities in that great Duchy.  

The King of Sweden invades Poland.  In the Year 1655, Charles Gustavus, King of Sweden, raised a more fatal Storm in Poland; for with an Army of chosen Men he entered that Kingdom, and in two years' time made himself absolute Master thereof. He first conquered Great Poland and Masovia, and afterwards the Lesser Poland, with Cracow, the capital City of the Kingdom; from whence he marched into Prussia, where almost all the Towns immediately surrendered to him except Dantzic, wherein at first were a great many Citizens that favoured the Suedes; but who not long after, by the Persuasions of some Ministers, continued their Obedience to Poland. The Resistance made by this one City, was the main Reason why all the Advantages got by the Swedes at last proved fruitless, and that they could maintain themselves no longer in Prussia: notwithstanding that, not only the whole Militia of Poland, and that part of Lithuania which was under the Muscovites, had submitted to the Swedes, but also King John Casimir was fled into Silesia; for the Poles having recovered themselves after their first Consternation was over, and being moreover joined by the Brandenburgers and Tartars, fell upon such of the Swedish Forces as were scattered up and down the Country. The Lithuanians also rose up in Arms, and killed all the Swedes that were in Winter-quarters among them.  

'Cause of his Invasion.  The Occasion of this Swedish Invasion was some familiarity King Casimir had had with the Wife of the Vicechancellor Radziouski, Father to the present Cardinal Primate. This great Senator could by no means brook a Scandal so public; and therefore having first made a Party in the Kingdom, he called in the Swedes through Livonia to revenge his Quarrel, who soon got the Duke of Curland's Country, and took him Prisoner. Afterwards they had such vast Success in their Progress, that all the Towns of Poland soon submitted to them, none being able to withstand a Siege. It is to be observed, that there are but few fortified Places in Poland; it being a Maxim of State there, That their Kings should not strengthen themselves at home, whereby their Enemies might take footing from abroad.  
This vast Conquest made all the neighbouring Princes very jealous of the Power of Sweden; for on one side Ragozzi, Prince of Transylvania, thinking perhaps to obtain that Crown for himself, entered Poland, but with no Success. The Danes likewise made a considerable Diversion on their part by attacking Sweden. Also the Muscovites came upon Livonia, and the Emperor sent Troops to succour the Poles; whereupon, by Assistance of the Brandenburgers and Tartars, and the prudent Conduct of General Czarneski, the Polish Nobility in six months' time restored Casimir to his Throne.  

Cracow took by a Stratagem.  This Czarneski retook the capital City of Poland by a Stratagem, which was by contriving to have some Cartloads of Wood enter the City betimes in the Morning, and to break in their Passage through one of the Gates; by which means, with 800 Men, he forced his way into the City, and destroyed the Swedish Garrison. The Advantage of an unfortifyed Kingdom will always be this, That though it be soon conquered, it will nevertheless be as easily recovered.  

King of Sweden enters into a League with the E. of Brandenburg.  When Charles Gustavus, King of Sweden, had met with an Opportunity to make War with Poland, he made several private Treaties with the late Elector of Brandenburg, Frederic William, and at length entered into a League with him, on condition, that when he had conquered Poland, he should give him the Sovereignty of Ducal Prussia; whereupon they both joined their Forces together, and soon conquered the Poles. But afterwards the King of Sweden being called home to take care of his own Dominions, which were then invaded by the Danes, he was forced to compound with Poland for 800000 Rix Dollars, which the Poles, not having had any Intelligence of the Danish Invasion, were glad to agree to. But the Elector of Brandenhurg observing that the Money stipulated for, was not like to be easily raised, offered, unknown to the Swedes, to give the Poles that Sum; and moreover, to help them to drive the Swedes out of their Kingdom, in case they would but confirm to him and his Heirs the aforesaid Sovereignty of Ducal Prussia. To this the Poles, being in extreme Confusion and Necessity, quickly condescended, with this Restraint only, That whenever the said Elector's Male-Issue failed, that Duchy should revert to the Crown of Poland. Whereupon the Elector of Brandenburg having been proclaimed Sovereign Duke of Prussia, he immediately joined the Polish Forces, and in short time drove the Swedes out of their Kingdom, which he before had been instrumental in bringing in.  
This is the Account I have heard the Poles give of their Deliverance from the Swedish Yoke; and Sir Robert Southwell also gave us lately the same Account at the Royal Society, which he had had from the late Elector of Brandenburg's own Mouth.  

Treaty of Oliva.  At this 
* Pufendorf. Rerum Brandenb. lib. VIII. Sect. 55. etc. fol. 508. col. 2.  Treaty of Oliva (a Monastery near Dantzic) the Poles likewise were to renounce all the Pretensions they had to Livonia.  
Casimir, after having routed the Swedes, raised an Army of about 30000 Germans, under pretence of being revenged on the Tartars for detaining several Poles Prisonners, which he had betrayed himself, the better to curb his Subjects. But Prince Lubomirski, Crown-Marshal, having discovered his private Design, which was to render himself Despotic, raised an Army likewise, and attacked that of the King with so good Success, that he entirely routed it, took its General, a Frenchman, Prisoner, and quickly obliged the King to disband his Germane Forces. At this 
Motive and Means of Casimir's Abdication.  Affront received from his own Subjects, Casimir was extremely nettled, insomuch that he abdicated the Crown not long after. But some time before his Abdication he convoked a Diet at Leopol to pay off the Army. The best Expedient to effect this was thought to be, to call in all the Gold and Silver of the Kingdom, and re-coin it; but this having been found deficient, the States consented to have vast Quantities of Copper coined, which before had been very scarce in that Country, and to raise its intrinsic Value to almost double the common Standard. With this Money the King paid the Public for what they brought in, as likewise the Arrears of the Army, but kept all the Gold and Silver, which he afterwards privately remitted into France, and soon followed himself, whereby he beggared the Nation; for which the Poles condemn him even to this day. They also hate his Memory for having favoured the Cosacks Rebellion to the empoverishing those Gentlemen that had Estates in Vkraina. This appeared unquestionable by a private Letter intercepted, sent under Casimir's own hand to Chmielinski and Doroczinko, Generals of the Cosacks Army, whereby he invited them to make War against himself for not having been redressed in the Grievances they had sustained under the Jews, the Nobleman's Stewards in the ukraine; by which means he gave them occasion to deliver themselves from the Polish Slavery, as they continue to this day.  
All this while the Cosacks were not a little troublesome to the Poles, taking advantage of these intestine Disorders, and the ill Condition the Affairs of Poland were in during Casimir's Time, who at length, after 20 years' Reign, being tired out with Vexations, publicly resigned his Crown, like Charles V. at St. John's Church at Warsaw the 16th of September, in 
Casimir 's Death. 1671.  the Year 1668; and retiring into France, died afterwards at Nevers, the City where his Queen was born.  
While I was at Warsaw, I spoke with several old Gentlemen about this King's Abdication, who told me that Casimir, the day after his Resignation, observing the People hardly paid him the Respect due to a Gentleman, much less to a King, seemed to have repent heartily of the Folly he had committed.  
The Officers which this Prince had reserved to himself in his Retreat, raised a stately Monument to the Memory of their Royal Master in the Abbey of St. Germains at Paris, whereof he was made Abbot. The Brass and Marble of this Monument shall not outlast the Latin Epitaph which Father Francis Delfault made on this Prince, and which for the Excellency in its kind, I shall beg leave of your Grace to insert.  

 Aeternae Memoriae; 
 REGIS ORTHODOXI, 
 HEIC; 
 Post Emensos Virtutis 
 Ac Gloriae Gradus omnes, 
 Quiescit, Nobili sui Parte, 
 JOHANNES CASIMIRUS, 
 Poloniae 
 Ac Sueciae Rex; 
 Alto E Jagellonidum 
 Sanguine, 
 Familia Vasatensi 
 POSTREMUS, 
 Quia Summus 
 LITTERIS, ARMIS, PIETATE. 
 Multarum Gentium Linguas 
 Addidicit, quo illas Propensius 
 Sibi devinciret. 
 Septemdecim Praeliis, collatis 
 cum Hoste signis, 
 Totidem uno minus vicit, 
 SEMPER INVIGTUS, 
 Moscovitas, Suecos, Brandeburgenses, 
 Tartaros, Germanos 
 ARMIS; 
 Cosacoes, aliosque Rebels Gratid, 
 ac Beneficiis 
 EXPUGNAVIT; 
 Victoriâ Regem eis se Praebens, 
 Clementiâ Patrem. 
 Denique totis viginti 
 Imperii Annis, 
 Fortunam virtute vincens, 
 AULAM HABVIT IN CASTRIS, 
 PALATIA 
 IN TENTORIIS, 
 SPECTACULA 
 IN TRIUMPHIS. 
 Liberos ex legitimo connubio 
 Suscepit, queis postea orbatus est, 
 ne si se majorem reliquisset, 
 non esset ipse Maximus; 
 Sin minorem, stirps degeneraret. 
 Par ei ad fortitudinem 
 Religio fuit, 
 Nec segnius Coelo Militavit, 
 QVAM SOLO. 
 Hinc extructa Monasteria, & 
 Nosocomia Varsaviae, 
 Calvinianorum fana in 
 Lithuania exoisa; 
 Sociniani Regno pulsi, ne Casimirum 
 haberent Regem, 
 Qui Christum Deum non 
 Haberent. 
 Senatus A Variis Sectis ad 
 Catholicae Fidei Communiousm 
 Adductus, 
 Vt Ecclesiae legibus 
 Continerentur, 
 Qui Jura Populis Dicerent. 
 Vnde Illi praeclarum 
 ORTHODOXI NOMEN 
 Ab Alexandro VII. 
 Inditum. 
 Humanae Denique Gloriae 
 Fastigium Praetergressus, 
 Cum Nihil Praeclarius Agere 
 Posset, 
 IMPERIUM SPONTE 
 ABDICAVIT 
 ANNO M. DC. LXVIII. 
 Tum Porro lachrymae, Quas 
 Nulli Regnans Excusserat, 
 Omnium oculis Manarunt, 
 Qui Abeuntem Regem, non secus 
 Atque Obeuntem Patrem, 
 LV: XERE. 
 Vitae Reliquum in Pietatis 
 Officiis cum Exegisset, 
 Tandem Audita Kameneci●● 
 Expugnatione, ne tantae cladi 
 Superesset, 
 CHARITATE PATRIAE 
 WLNERATUS OCCUBVIT 
 XVII. KAL. JAN. M. DC. 
 LXXII. 
 Regium cor monachis Hujus 
 Coenobii, cui Abbas praefuerat, 
 Amoris pignus reliquit; 
 Quod illi isthoc tumulo Moere●●tes 
 condidorunt.  
If King Casimir's Resignation procured Quiet to himself, it occasioned no less Disturbance to the Polish Commonwealth; for thereby none of the Family of Vasa remaining, several Princes raised Factions to get the Crown into their Families, and consequently each endeavoured to hinder him that was most like to obtain it.  

A Diet called.  Stanislaus Prasmowski the Primate had convened a Diet to meet at the beginning of December, where, after some innocent Heats, the second of May 1669 was pitched upon for the Diet of Election. This Interregnum, unlike the former, was not disturbed by the Protestants; King Casimir having taken such Measures, that the Socinians were in his time banished; and the other Sects being looked upon with Contempt, were consequently discouraged in their Advances.  

Competitors for the Crown,  At this Diet of Election, four Competitors appeared, viz. The Son of the Great Duke of Muscovy, who had been bred in Poland, and spoke that Language; on whose behalf the Great Duke his Father offered, 1. That his Son should change his Religion for that of the Roman Communion. 2. That he should make a Public Renunciation to Muscovy. 3. That all Places formerly taken from the Poles by the Muscovites should be restored. 4. That four Millions should be advanced as his free Gift towards the Payment of the Arrears of the Polish Army. And lastly, That he would be obliged to assist Poland against all Enemies whatever with an Army of forty thousand Men; and moreover, enter into a firm and perpetual League with them. The next was the Duke of Neuburg, supported by the French Interest. The third was the Duke of Lorain, upheld by the Germane Faction. And the fourth was the Prince of Conde's Son, whom the Archbishop of Gnesna, and General Sobieski were thought to favour.  

Reduced to two.  At length the Contentions for the Crown of Poland were altogether lodged in two Pretenders, for the Duke of Muscovy declined sending his Ambassadors out of Pride, as being displeased with the Poles; and the Prince of Conde had quitted his Pretensions on account of Discouragement; wherefore the two Competitors that remained had the Gentry almost equally divided between them, and which arrived to those Extremities, that almost every Night twenty or more were found murdered in the Streets. These Disorders the Marshal of the Diet used several Means to suppress, but at length found none so plausible as to proceed forthwith to an Election.  

Foreign Ministers admitted.  The 4th of June the Ambassadors were first admitted to Audience, when the Pope's Nuncio made a Speech in Latin, and exhorted the Assembly to elect a Catholic Prince. The 7th of the same Month Count Schafgots had Audience, who, contrary to the expectation of every body, recommended the Duke of Neuburg in the Name of his Master the Emperor.  
On the 12th the Duke of Neuburg's Minister had Audience, who promised in the Name of his Master two Millions to pay the Army; next to maintain always 4000 Men for the Service of the State out of his own Coffers; and lastly, to build three Fortresses on the Frontiers of Poland, as likewise to found a College for the Polanders in Germany. The Prince of Leixin, who had Audience next, proffered almost the same on the part of his Nephew the Duke of Lorain. To which the Abbot of Riquet also added, that the same Prince, for whom he likewise spoke, was ready to dispute the Crown in single Combat with his Opponent, to the end he might obtain it by the most honourable Means. But nevertheless, the Pride of the latter of these Competitors had not better effect than the Promises of the former.  
In the mean time the Gentry were very impatient at the tediousness of the Diet, and at 
Heats arise;  length were ready to go together by the Ears; when Opalinski Palatin of Kalisch, to appease the Disorder, made an elegant Speech, alleging, That it was mere Madness for them to cut one another's Throats about choosing of Princes which they never saw, and that it would be more prudent to reject them both, their Birth and Alliance with the House of Austria being sufficient to merit their Exclusion. And proceeding in his Harangue, he put them in mind that the Austrian Family, providing they persisted to make choice of a Prince out of it, might in all probability serve them as it had formerly done the Kingdoms of Bohemia and Hungary; and that therefore it was not only unsafe, but also contrary to the Constitutions of their Kingdom to have any thing to do with them. Hereupon the Tumults began something to abate, which gave him encouragement to go on and show, that formerly, when Heats grew high, a Native, meaning Piastus, had been chosen, who governed the Kingdom so prudently, that even at 120 Years of Age his Death was regretted. These 
Appeased by a Speech.  Precautions (continued he) our Forefathers had against the Ambition, Envy or Avarice of such as pretended to the Crown: Let us therefore (quoth he) leave the Duke of Neuburg to govern his small Estate and numerous Family; and let the Duke of Lorain exhaust his Treasures to recover his Paternal Dominions. For our parts a Piasto would be most proper for us, as we may find by a serious Reflection on these Divine Words, Admit ad te alienigenam, & subvertet te; Admit a Stranger among ye, and he shall undermine and ruin ye.  
By these means the Palatin of Kalisch having pretty well calmed the turbulent Spirits of the Diet, and moreover influenced them with kind thoughts of a Piasto, he immediately posted, together with the Palatin of Posnania, 
A Plasto proposed.  to Wiesnowiski then at Warsaw, where finding him in the Church of the Recollects, they both earnestly begged of him to accompany them to the Field of Election, which Request, after some difficulty, he complied with. Whereupon all three arriving while the Partisans of the two Competitors were ready to go together by the Ears, the Palatins of Kalisch and Posnania took occasion to propose Wiesnowiski; and the Illustrious House he was 
* Hartknoch. lib. ●●. cap. 2. p. 109.  descended from soon determined the Gentry in his Favour. It must be understood that Wiesnowiskis was not lineally of the Race of Jagello, for that ended with Sigismundus Augustus, but collaterally descended from Korybuth Jagello's Brother.  
Mr. Yard who went with Sir Peter Wyche to compliment King Michael on his Accession to the Throne, told me lately, that the Palatin 
Policy disappointed.  of Culm acquainted them at Warsaw, that when Michael was proposed, the Intention was not to have him elected, but only by proposing of him to discover how far the Diet would relish a Native; some of the Great Men among them having secret Designs to advance one of themselves to the Throne, but which they were unexpectedly disappointed in by the Election of this poor Prince.  
Wiesnowizki was not a little surprised when he heard himself named, and which also increased upon him when they seated him by force in the midst of the Assembly, and begged of him to accept the Crown. At first he 
Michael refuses the Crown;  burst out into Tears, and declared he was not capable to sustain so great a Burden; but the major part of the Diet persisting in their Demands, at length he thought fit to acquiesce 
Accepts it.  and accept their Proffers. The Dukes of Neuburg and Lorain were hereby immediately deprived of their most professed Friends: But the Lithuanians would by no means accept of a Prince they had not first named, and therefore proposed others. This dissenting of theirs occasioned new Disorders, which grew so high, that a Gentleman speaking his Mind too freely, was cut to pieces on the spot; yet at length, the latter being the weaker side, they were forced to comply with the former, and confirm Prince Wiesnowiski.  

The Primate conforms.  The Primate not approving of this Election, retired to his Castle of Lowitz; but the Gentry threatened to force him, and the Senators entreated him to consent, which at length he agreed to, and according to custom proclaimed him.  
It is said that whilst the Palatin of Kalisch was haranguing, a Swarm of Bees and a Pigeon happened to fly over their Heads, which the Poles immediately taking for a good Omen, cried out unanimously, God save King  

Michael Wiesnowiski 1670.  MICHAEL WIESNOWISKI. This his Excellency Monsieur de Cleverskerk, now Ambassador from the States of Holland in England, assures me to be true, he having been present at Warsaw as a Traveller at the time of this Election.  
King Michael being thus chosen, chiefly indeed by the Minor Nobility, was proclaimed by the Primate, and crowned the 17 th' of September in the Year 1670, and reigned to the Year 1673.  

His Marriage.  He married Eleonora of Austria, Daughter to Ferdinand III. and Sister to Leopold the present Emperor of Germany; by reason of which Alliance Jealousies were raised, that his Majesty had a mind to make himself Absolute and Hereditary, and to subvert the Polish Liberties, all which he soon appeased by a timely compliance with the Demands of the disaffected.  
This Prince before he was advanced to the Throne was very poor, subsisting only on a Pension of 6000 Livres, which had been charitably allowed him by King Casimir and his Queen Mary Luduvica di Gonzaga. He had, 'tis true, formerly a vast Estate in Vkraina, but which the Cosacks were then in possession of. He was, as I am informed, Gentleman of the Bedchamber to the present Emperor of Germany, which yet that Prince did not think sufficient reason to exclude him from marrying his Sister after his Election.  

The Cosacks Rebellion  In the Year 1672, the Cosacks, assisted by some Tartars, having again fallen to their old Custom of rebelling, General Sobieski with the Forces of the Crown soon chastised them, and forced their Leader Doroczinko to retire. 
Favoured by the Turk:  Hence the Turk took an occasion to quarrel with Poland, upon pretence he had taken the Cosacks into his Protection, whom he would needs have to be oppressed.  
This King was by no means endued with the Warlike Spirit of his Predecessors; for in his time the Turks not only overrun Podolia, but also took its Capital City Caminiec, and 
Produces a bad Peace.  likewise obliged the Poles to dishonourable Articles of Peace, whereby Michael was to pay the Turks an Annual Tribute. The farther Particulars of this Matter are as follows: Sobleski, made Great Marshal and Crown-General by Casimir for having always adhered to his Interest, presenting King Michael when elected with a Coach and six Horses to comply with the Custom only, for it must be understood Sobieski was his Enemy; the King by the Persuasions of his haughty Mother refused the Present, which the General greatly resenting sought all manner of ways to be revenged on him, and in order thereto, frequently caballed with the Gentry assembled in Parliament against him, and at length obliged the Diet to be dissolved without concluding any thing to his advantage; while in the mean time, I am positively assured, he kept Intelligence with the Turks and Tartars, as may appear by their taking of Caminiec, and besieging of Leopol. Mr. James Walker a Scots-man, who was in the City when besieged, and is now in London, told me lately, that there were 90000 Turks, 20000 Tartars, and 10000 Cosacks and Moldavians at that Siege which happened in the Year 1672, all which begirted the Town close, playing continually upon it from five Batteries. The Governor that held out against them was one Lonsky, a Colonel of Dragoons, who had, as Mr. Walker assures me, but five hundred of his Men in Garrison without any Horse, besides 1100 of the Inhabitants in Arms: With these Lonski defended himself vigorously, insomuch that what by the Correspondence he kept with the Christians in the Turkish Army, and by the Bravery of his own Men he maintained his Defence three Weeks, when the King sent Count Morstin and other Commissioners to treat with Caplan Bassa General of the Turks, who agreed, that for raising the Siege the King should pay 22000 Gold Ducats yearly Tribute to the Grand Signior, 100000 Lion-Dollars down on the nail to save the City, whereof the Inhabitants paid 10000 presently, and the Public were to pay the rest; this they gave eight Hostages to perform, who were kept Prisoners at Caminiec, and died there by reason that the Debt contracted for was never paid. Besides, the Turks were to remain in possession of Caminiec and all Podolia. But General Sobieski, and the rest of the caballing Party being ashamed of this dishonourable Treaty, came to a better Understanding among themselves, and sided with the King to recover what had been lost.  

The Poles march to recover Podolia;  Hereupon the Armies of Poland and Lithuania marched directly towards Podolia to retake it, that of the Kingdom being commanded by General Sobieski, and the other of the Duchy by General Patz. These two Generals soon obtained a signal Victory over the Turks near Kochim five Leagues from Caminiec, by the Treachery of the Moldavians and Null, who never hitherto signalised themselves but perfidiously, which yet proved very advantageous to the Poles, who were then in want of every thing but Courage. Caplan Bassa commanded the Turkish Army, being joined by the Moldavian Troops, headed by their Hospodar; but the former being displeased with the Conduct of the latter, his Soldiers being not so many as he expected, and those not well equipt, struck him over the Head with his Scimitar, which the Hospodar highly resenting resolved upon Revenge, which he afterwards effected, by deserting the Turks in conjunction with the Null who took his part, and going over to the Poles. This mightily facilitated Sobieski's Entry into the Enemy's Camp, which gained him a complete 
Conquer;  Victory. This Defeat had doubtless put the Affairs of Poland into a good Condition had the Generals sufficiently pursued it. But, as it has always been the unfortunate Custom of the Poles, they immediately withdrew their 
But fail in their Design.  Troops into their Country, and so have since left the Turks in full possession of Podolia. This famous Battle began upon Saturday, and was scarce fully over in three days.  
Some few days before this Victory obtained, King Michael died at Leopol, November the 10 th' 
Michael's Death;  1673, supposed to have been poisoned by a Frenchman at Zamoisk, being about 32 Years old, and having reigned about four Years, leaving the Poles less afflicted at his Death, than ashamed at the bad Choice they had made of him for their Prince.  
This Prince not long before he died, had the Misfortune to see an Aga come from the Grand Signior to demand Tribute of him, who brought him from his Master a Commander's Staff and a Turkish Vest, both being Badges of Vassalage. He left no Children, though his 
Leaves no Issue.  Queen, who was afterwards married to Charles late Duke of Lorain, has since had several. She is lately dead, and in my Travels from Italy to Germany resided at Inspruck, the Capital Town of Tyrol, where I had the Honour to kiss her Majesty's Hand, being introduced by my Lord Carlingford. Her Brother the Emperor allowed her and her Children a Pension out of the County of Tyrol; for she received nothing either out of Poland or Lorain, the latter having been hitherto in the French Hands; and the Constitution of the former being, that when the Queen Dowager marries, she forfeits her Pension settled upon her by the Diet at the King's Coronation.  

* Hartknoch. lib. 1. cap. 2. p. 109, 110.  
An odd Story.  An odd Story goes of a Child that was born in this King's Reign in the Year 1670, at Vilna in ●●ithuania, with a Golden Tooth, which was esteemed truly such by all the Physicians, Surgeons and Goldsmiths about that City, being also tried on the Touchstone in the presence of the Bishop of that place: But what is yet more wonderful, that Child having a Fever afterwards in the Year 1673, his Golden Tooth was changed into Bone. How worthy this is of Credit I leave to the Judicious Naturalists; I have only this to say for myself, that I found it in an authentic Author.  
King Michael being dead was succeeded by John Sobieski the late King of Poland, who was Captain of the Guards, and Gentleman of the Bedchamber to King John Casimir. Whilst he had these Employments he married Prince Zamoski's Widow, who had 10000 Rix Dollars left her for a Jointure, by the contrivance and management of King Casimir and his Queen, to whom she was then Lady of the Bedchamber. At this Juncture Sobieski's own Estate was not 2000 Pounds Sterling a Year: But however, the King promised to advance him after he had married this Lady, which he accordingly performed, and I may say that it was through the means of this Marriage that Sobieski was gradually promoted to the Supreme Dignity of the Crown.  
Thus, my Lord, I have given as short and exact an Account of the memorable Actions of the fourth Class of the Kings of Poland, as my Incapacity, and the Precipitation with which it was published, would allow. But before I put an end to this Letter, I must beg your Grace's leave to take notice, that the Crown of Poland, though always Elective, yet has been successively in the same Family from Father to Son, or at least from Father to Daughter or other Relation, from the Year 830 to the Year 1674, which is from Piastus his Reign to the Election of the late King John Sobieski, except only the five Months that Henry of Valois reigned, I mean Henry III. of France, who was killed by a Monk. To evince this, your Grace may be pleased to understand, that the last of the Family of Piastus in a direct Line was the Princess Hedwigis, who married Jagello, Great Duke of Lithuania. His Male Race by her reigned to Sigismond the Second time, of whose two Daughters, one was married to King Stephen Batori his Successor, and the other was Mother to Sigismond III. who with his Sons were successively elected to the Throne to the time of King Michael Wiesnowiski; who, though he was not lineally descended from Jagello, yet came laterally from the Race of Koributh Jagello's Brother: So that it is evident that the Poles have reconciled a free Election of their Kings with an uninterrupted Succession of the same for 844 Years; as likewise that they have never excluded the deceased King's Son, nor ever elected any Germane Prince to the Throne before this last Election of the Elector of Saxony, Frederick Augustus, now King of Poland. But as it is lawful for all Governments to alter their Constitutions at often as they find it convenient for the good of the Public; so the Poles observing that their Native Kings have not of late sufficiently promoted the Interest of their Country, were wise enough to choose a Foreign Prince, whose Wealth and Courage would enlarge their Dominions, as their present King Frederick Augustus is very likely to do, being in League with the Emperor, Muscovites and Venetians. I hope your Grace will be pleased to pardon my Indiscretion in presuming to write of Matters which are altogether out of my Element, since it was only to show with what Deference and Respect I am,  
My LORD, Your Grace's most Obedient and most Humble Servant, B. C.   

LETTER IU.  
To the Right Honourable WILLIAM Earl of Yarmouth.  
Concerning the Family and Remarkable Actions of John III. King of Poland: As also his Daughter's Marriage to the present Elector of Bavaria.  
My LORD;  
THE Obligations I owe to your Brother Mr. Alberti and his Lady, joined with the Value I have always professed for your Lordship's Friendship, makes me glad to find this occasion of giving both you and them a public Testimony of my Respect and Gratitude; and since you have often showed yourself willing to know something of the Affairs of Poland, I thought nothing could be more agreeable to your Temper, than that I should inform you chiefly of the Heroic Actions of that great Prince, with whom your Brother for so many Years so prudently managed the Interest of the wisest Republic in the World in a long lingering War against the Ottoman Empire. It is to his Kindness that I must own myself indebted for the Honour I have had of being in the Esteem of so Warlike a King, and of being moreover entrusted with the Care of what was most dear to him.  
John Sobieski, my Lord, is not so much to be esteemed for his memorable Exploits after his Election, as for his Merits, and the wise Conduct by which he advanced himself from a private Gentleman of an indifferent Fortune, and nothing at all related to any of the former Kings, through all the Posts of the Army to the Crown of Poland, notwithstanding the several powerful Factions which appeared against him.  
Immediately after the Death of the late King Michael Wiesnowiski, John Sobieski then Crown-General gave a signal Overthrow to the Turks near Caminiec, which caused a great Alteration in the Republic of Poland; for thereupon the Turkish Aga and Treasurer were not so peremptory in their demanding Annual Tribute shamefully stipulated for by Michael, as they had been before, but were contented to be put off to the Diet of Election.  

A Diet called;  The Senate being assembled, ordered public Rejoices, and began their Session by leaving off their Mourning for the late King. The Diet which preceded that of the Election was appointed to meet the 15 th' of January 1674, which was designed to be terminated in 15 days; but the ordinary Disturbances that arose in these sort of Assemblies, together with the Inclination which every body had to advance General Sobieski, occasioned it to be prorogued till the 22 d or 23 d of February, without doing any thing but assigning a Jointure to the Queen Dowager.  
The 20 th' of April began the Diet of Election; 
Poceeds to Election.  the Candidates were in great number, and every one's Pretensions were heard. The Czar of Muscovy, who had been so often baffled at preceding Elections, yet made fresh Interest at this. His Envoy demanded the Crown for his Master's youngest Son, who was then about thirteen or fourteen Years of Age; but however he neither made so great Proffers as formerly, nor used any Threats, for he would then have been laughed at, Poland being at that juncture in a much better condition than before. Next the Prince of Transilvania offered fifteen Millions of Money, as likewise that he would unite his Principality to Poland, and maintain fifteen thousand Men in the Service of that State against the Turk: but these Propositions were looked upon too considerable to be either real or possible; for the Poles believed that they had possessed themselves of the greatest Treasure of Transilvania when they chose Stephen Batori for their King. The Elector of Brandenburg likewise had some hopes in favour of the Prince his Son, when he proffered that he should change his Religion as soon as ever he was elected; but he soon quitted his Pretensions when he considered what had passed in regard to the Germans and Protestants in former Elections. If this Prince had been a Roman Catholic, his Family might have had just Pretences to Poland by the Interest of uniting Ducal Prussia to that Kingdom.  

Several Candidates.  The Dukes of Modena and Parma had also their Envoys at this Election; but whereas every body thought their business was to ask the Crown, they only came to condole the Death of the late King, and congratulate the Poles on their Victory at Chochim, so that they did not add to the number of the Competitors.  
Don Pedro di Ronquillos came from Spain without taking upon him the Quality of Ambassador: His Instructions were to recommend Duke Charles of Lorain, after he had done his best in favour of Don John of Austria; but this Policy did not take, and the Council of Spain afterwards found another Expedient to rid themselves of this Prince.  

A French Prince proposed, but not named.  A French Prince, whose Name was not mentioned (though I suppose it was the Prince of Conde) occasioned the most Jealousy of all the rest. The other Pretenders to the Crown were not a little pleased that this Prince was not named. The Duke of Neuburg renewed his former Pretensions, though they had succeeded so very ill. He did not desire the Crown for himself, but for his younger Son Prince Philip. This Duke made the like Proffers for his Son as he had done for himself at the preceding Diet. The Duke of Lorain solicited powerfully on his part, and 
Queen Dowager's Zeal.  the Queen Dowager had pawned even her Jewels to augment his Party; but a false Report, of which some Letters from Rome gave the occasion, was intended to frustrate all his Endeavours: It was reported that this Prince was married to the Empress Dowager. Every body knew the Obligations he had to that Princess, and how she granted him Protection, and made the Emperor his Friend after he had been deprived of his Patrimony by France; but notwithstanding the Queen Dowager still continued her Esteem for him, and soon dissipated the Rumours raised against him, by which she brought over the Lithuanians, who seemed altogether to have forsaken the Interest she had before engaged them in.  

Only three Competitors and Factions left.  At length the number of Competitors was reduced to three, in favour of whom as many Factions were formed, all which threatened had Consequences. The first Faction was that of Lithuania, headed by the Grand General Patz, who declared for the Duke of Lorain. It was observed that whilst Patz was discoursing with Sobieski, Grand Marshal of the Crown, at the Camp of Choczin, Sobieski said, that it was convenient to choose a King that was rich, valiant, and not young; to which Patz added, And who above all is not married. This sufficiently showed, that whether the French Prince or Sobieski was proposed, it would be no small difficulty to obtain the Consent of the Lithuanians, who would have no King but such a one as was in a condition to marry after his Election. The second Faction was that of the Polish Gentry, which was not at all considerable by reason that it was divided, one Part being for a Piasto, and two others for the Duke of Neuburg, and the Duke of Lorain. The Army composed the third Faction, which was the most to be feared. General Sobieki proposed the French Prince, but in reality worked underhand for himself. France employed its Interest for the Duke of 
Whose Interest France espouses.  Neuburg, looking upon him as less engaged to the House of Austria than the Duke of Lorain, who was indebted to that Family for all he either had or could expect. If this French Prince had been but named when he was put up, doubtless he would soon have ruined the Measures of the Germans, for whom the Republic never had any Kindness, who consequently might have saved themselves a great deal of fruitless Charge had they never thought of the Crown of Poland; but on the contrary, their Ambition has all along hitherto surmounted the Dictates of their Reason.  

Magnificent Trains.  The Gentry arrived at the Diet one after another with their Followers; but however. none had any thing like the Train of the two Marshals of the Crown and of Lithuania: their Parties seemed too numerous to assist at a Diet where there is so much Freedom as in that of Poland. Nevertheless Sobieski must be indulged considering the great Services he had done the State, and common Justice required the same Liberty for the Lithuanians. These two Generals no doubt had different Intentions. Sobieski apparently sought the Crown from himself, and Patz his Design was to hinder him from obtaining it. Both had a fair opportunity to come to Blows, but it seems Fate had ordered it otherwise, though the Duke of Lorain was with an Army on the Borders of Silesia to animate his Friends.  

Lithuania against a Native.  The Lithuanians, who plainly perceived that Sobieski aimed at the Crown, omitted nothing that might prove a means to exclude him from it: They therefore endeavoured all they could to raise ill Thoughts of a Piasto, and proclaimed those Enemies to their Country who were not of their Opinion. This was thought so very unjust, that most of the Diet protested against it, and that with so great Indignation, that there would doubtless have been a great deal of Blood shed had not the great Prudence of Sapieha grand Treasurer of Lithuania, and Marshal of the Diet, intercepted and appeased their Fury.  
The first that had Audience of this Assembly 
Foreign Ministers admitted.  was Francis Bonvisius the Pope's Nuncio, who desired them in the Name of his Holiness to elect a Catholic Prince. Next Christopher Count of Schafgots the Emperor's Ambassador, recommended the Duke of Lorain; as likewise did the Bishop of Marseilles the eldest Son of the Duke of Neuburg, in the Name of his Master the King of France. The Ministers of these two Competitors made almost the same Proffers as they had formerly done; yet notwithstanding the beforementioned different Factions, did not forsake the Interest of those whose Party they had espoused; for that of Sobieski continued to insist, in all outward appearance, on the Anonymous French Prince, whose Character had procured him a great many Suffrages. And the other of the Great Chancellor Patz, though not so strong, yet was not a whit less constant to the Interest of the Queen and Duke of Lorain. Both these remaining 
A double Election apprehended.  so obstinate in their Pretensions, gave great reason to apprehend a double Election, which caused some of the more prudent sort to represent the great Disorders that had ensued from thence in the preceding Elections of the Kings Batori and Sigismond, but this with little or no effect.  
These Contests and Heats occasioned the Diet to be prolonged to the 19 th' of May. The Senate deputed four or five Bishops to the Queen to acquaint her, that if her Majesty would please to forsake the Interest of the Duke of Lorain, they had orders to offer her Prince Philip of Neuburg for her Husband, together with the Crown. These Ministers the Queen received very civilly, and thanked the Senate for their Kindness to her, but withal insinuated, that she did not believe that 
The Queen and Patz endeavoured to be seduced.  they were yet absolute Masters of the Election, since her Friends the Lithuanians had not forsaken her. The same Prelates perceiving the unalterable Resolution of the Queen, went in quest of the Grand General Patz, whom they also found firm in the Duke of Lorain's Interest, which yet they could not but commend in him, he having had great Obligations to the Queen.  

Lithuania tends towards a Civil War.  The next day all the Gentry of Poland and Lithuania met again, each Party resolving to maintain what they had undertaken. It was plainly to be perceived that Sobieski was strong enough to make himself Head of the Election, and therefore the other side had thoughts of joining the Duke of Lorain's Army; but this made all Men tremble who had regard to the Good of the Public. At last the Palatin of Russia made a Speech to the Assembly, representing, That the Queen having refused a Husband which the Government had proffered her, the Republic had no more to do with her; and that they had done but too much already for the House of Austria and Germany, neither of which had ever done them any Service; that notwithstanding the Opposition of the Lithuanians who did but dishonour their Country by excluding a Piasto, yet they ought to choose one, to show the World that if their Ancestors had not done the like oftener, it was because they had a mind to avoid the Jealousies which would have arisen between so many Subjects that deserved the Crown; and that since now there was one present whose Merit was not to be questioned, they ought forthwith to elect him. Then he proceeded to name John Sobieski with this Character, That his Life had been entirely devoted to the Service of the State, which even while he was speaking, peaceably enjoyed the Fruits of his late Victory at Chocim; and further, that this present Happiness was but a Specimen of what he was able to do for his Country: and lastly, that the Crown was due to Sobieski out of mere Gratitude and Acknowledgement, since it was through his means that they sat there, and had a Power to dispose of it.  

Poland and part of Lithuania biased to Sobieski by a Speech.  The Gentry of Russia being influenced by what their Palatin had said, immediately declared for Sobieski, who was a Native of their Province, and all the rest of Poland soon followed their Example; together with some Palatinates of Lithuania, brought over by the Management of Prince Radzivil Vicechancellor of that Duchy; every one being forward to deserve Favours from one whom they had acknowledged for their Prince.  

Patz retires and dissents;  The Great General of Lithuania being highly displeased at all these Proceedings, left the Diet in a Heat, and together with his Friends marched out of the Field about Nine at Night, no body being able to bring him back. Hereupon he immediately enters▪ Protest against this Election, alleging that it was against the Constitution of the Kingdom for any King to be chosen without the common Consent. The next day, being the 20 th' of May, the Lithuanians returned into the Field, but retired after having made their Protestations against this Election; whereupon several Senators and Nuncio's were sent to recall them, but their Answer was, that they were going to deliberate upon the Matter, and would inform them of their Resolutions by their Deputies. The Poles and Lithuanians who had espoused Sobieski's Interest, forthwith commanded the Bishop of Cracow to proclaim him; which notwithstanding this Prelate declined, wisely foreseeing the Disorders so rash an Election might occasion, and which might probably end in a Civil War.  

Complies, with the rest of Lithuania.  The Deputies of Lithuania arrived a little while after; whereof the Chief being the Bishop of Vilna, Brother to the Grand General, delivered the Message, giving Sobieski the Title only of Grand Marshal; yet in the conclusion of his Discourse he told them, that he was ready to give his Vote for him, but desired the proclaiming him might be deferred till next day, to the end the Lithuanians might assist at it, and thereby the Election become unanimous: which Request of his was readily granted. Whereupon the 21st of May Andrew Trzebicki Bishop of Cracow, who presided at the Diet in the room of the Primate Czartoriski just then deceased (which happened very well for Sobieski, the Primate having been no Friend of his) went with the Senators before the New Prince to the Place of Election, where they were met by the Lithuanians with their General Patz at their head, who was too politic not to assist there with his whole Family.  
JOHN SOBIESKI was soon after proclaimed, 
John III. 1674.  and the Gentry proceeded to sing Te Deum in the Cathedral of Warsaw, ending the Day with usual Acclamations and Rejoices.  
This Prince was descended of a Noble and Ancient Family, though none of the most considerable, nor richest in the Kingdom. His Father 
His Father.  James Sobieski was Castellan of Cracovia, a Person no less eminent for his Abilities in Affairs of State, than renowned for his Courage and Conduct in the Field. He was employed in the Year 1621., as Ambassador and Plenipotentiary upon a Treaty of Peace, which by his Prudence and Address was honourably concluded with Sultan Osman. He distinguished himself likewise on many other important Occasions; and after several other great Services faithfully performed for his Country, he died in the Year 1646.  

His Mother.  His Mother was one of the Daughters of Stanislaus Zolkiewski, Grand Chancellor and Grand General of the Crown, who bravely fought that memorable Battle at Cicora on the 10th of September 1620; and though he was again five times attacked by the Turks on the 2d of October in the same Year, yet he gallantly repulsed them, till at last being overpowered with Numbers, and forsaken by his Followers, he was slain, courageously fight among the thickest Troops of his Enemies.  

His Travels.  This Prince was carefully educated by his Parents in his Youth, and sent to travel into France, where his Father bought him a Captain of Horse's Commission, which gained him great Experience: He also travelled into England, Germany and Italy; where having observed all the different Manners, Interests, Laws, Military Discipline, Strength and Policies of those People, and, in a word, all else that was necessary for a Person of Quality to learn in his Travels, he at last returned home, when Casimir after several Trials both of his Valour and Discretion, and admiring at his great Merit and quick Parts, which he had improved so well both in Languages, Sciences, and Military Accomplishments, made him first a Colonel of Foot, and afterwards Captain of his Guards; and from thence advanced him gradually through all the Posts of his Army, till he arrived at being Grand Marshal of the Crown in the room of Lubomirski, and Grand General of Poland in the room of Potoski. He behaved himself in all these Employments with that Courage and Prudence as became a Soldier, and was reputed the Hero of his Age, and the Terror of the Ottoman Empire.  

His Marriage.  He married Mary de la Grange, Daughter to the Marquis of Arquien (not long since made Cardinal) of the Family of La Grange in Nivernois in France. She, by the contrivance of King Casimir's Queen, to whom she was Maid of Honour, was first married to Prince Zamoiski, one of the greatest Palatins in the Kingdom, and after his Death to the Grand General Sobieski, by whom she had several Children, and amongst the ●●est three hopeful Princes, the eldest of which has the Honour to be Brother-in-Law to the Emperor, King of Spain, King of Portugal, and to the Duke of Modena, by marrying one of the Princesses of Neuburgh.  
This Prince was not Crowned till above fifteen Months after his Election; during which time, he gained great Advantages over the Turks, and forced them to a Peace at Zorowna, whereby they were obliged to remit the yearly Tribute, stipulated for by King Michael, but were still to be left in possession of the Fortress of Caminiec.  
At the time of his Election he was pleased 
His Generosity.  to promise, of his own free Will and Motion, that the Queen-Dowager should be provided for suitably to her high Quality and extraordinary Merit; as also, that the Arrears of the Army should be forthwith discharged out of his own Revenues, since the public Stock was then hardly able to do it. He conferred the Command of Grand Marshal on Prince Demetrius, Uncle to the late King, and that of Lieutenant General of the Crown, thereby becoming vacant, on the Palatin of Cracovia. But as he signified his Resolution to prosecute the War against the Turk with the utmost Vigour, so he promised that at his own particular Charges he would raise one thousand Foot, and maintain them during the War; and this to encourage the Senators and other Great Men of the Kingdom, to do the like proportionably: For which reason, he desired that he might retain the Command of Great General in his own hands till the Campagn was ended, for that the present Urgency of Affairs was like to prevent his Coronation▪ To which Propositions the Nobility immediately assented.  

A Jointure assigned the Queen-Dowager.  Pursuant to the King's Promise, the Queen-Dowager, by the Consent of the Diet▪ had a yearly Revenue of two hundred thousand Guilders assigned her, with Liberty to reside in any of the Polish Dominions, except Cracow, or some other fortified Places on the Borders of Silesia; whereupon her Majesty made choice of Thorn in Prussia for her Residence.  
Tho the King was most solicitous to carry on the War against the Turk, yet the Nobility and Senators were generally as remiss therein: for though they had promised him Maintenance for sixty thousand Men, yet he now desired but forty thousand; however, such were their Dissensions and Jealousies, that they would not afford him so many.  
Notwithstanding, to oppose the Turks, Muscovites and Tartars in the ukraine, he got together a small Army of about fifteen or sixteen thousand Men, with which he marched from Warsaw the 22d of August, towards the Frontiers; when at the same time the Muscovite General's Army consisted of above one hundred thousand; but which nevertheless did no damage, being diverted by the Turks by a Stratagem, insomuch that these, with the Tartars, quickly got possession of all Vkraina, except two or three Places.  
The Troops of Lithuania, consisting of about twelve thousand Men, came up to the King, which made his Army amount to near thirty thousand; so that he immediately called a Council of War at Slotzow, and resolved to march directly toward the ukraine, with design to fall upon the Enemy with all the fury imaginable, notwithstanding some Overtures of Peace made him by the Vizier: But this was looked upon by the Poles only as a Stratagem to amuse them, and foment the Jealousies of the Muscovites; by which means the Turks thought to divide them.  
Accordingly, upon his Approaches, he sends out the Woievod of Russia to learn the Condition of the Enemy, who, near the Walls of Caminiec, surprised and defeated a thousand Turkish Horse, and brought a hundred and fifty away Prisoners. Whereupon he proceeds vigorously, and takes several Towns of great Importance in Podolia.  
But at this time the Lithuanians would needs leave his Majesty and return home, alleging, that they were not able to bear the rigour of the Winter. But nevertheless the King with his Gallant Poles resolved to continue the Campagn, 
His Conquests.  and push on his good Fortune; scarce a Week passing, but some considerable Place or other was yielded to him, the Turks all this while not daring in the least to oppose him. So that now his Majesty had subdued all that part of Vkraina, which lies Westward of the Nieper, except only the City of Czebryn.  
In April 1675, the Turks and Tartars began in numerous Bodies to take the Field: notwithstanding the King, animated by his natural Courage, resolved not to stir a foot, but forthwith reinforced the several Garrisons of Mohilow, Braclaw, Nimirow, Kalmick and Bialicierkiew; which done, he had hardly forces enough left to deserve the Name of an Army.  
The Turks and Tartars, after having been baffled at Slotskow, marched directly towards Leopol, where the King's Army lay within a Mile of the Town. That way the Enemy was to approach, there was an Ascent of about three hundred Paces, when one was to descend again by a very narrow Way, amidst a Wood that had lately been cut down. At the foot of this Hill there was a Plain, through which the Tartars must necessarily pass to come at the Poles. Here the King posted his Brother-in-Law Duke Radzivil with some Troops for Guard of the Pass on the Right-hand of his Camp. And General Kariski on the Left, caused several Cannon to be planted on a Hill, whence they might annoy the Enemy in the Plain. He also caused the Wood on each side the narrow Way to be well lined with several Companies of Musketeers. After which his Majesty ordered some Troops of Horse to advance into the Plain to oppose the Enemy, who about four in the Afternoon appeared in such Numbers, that they almost covered the Ground. In the mean time the King from a Hill observed their Motions: After which with his usual Air of Gallantry, common to him in time of Action, at the Head of the remaining part of his small Army he descended into the Plain, encouraging his Soldiers, by telling them that he came there with full Resolution either to conquer, or die. Whereupon, 
A Battle.  repeating thrice the Name of Jesus, he briskly advanced towards the Enemy. The Fight began with great Fury on both sides; the King omitting nothing either as to Courage or Conduct, but performing both the part of a most prudent General and a valiant Soldier, by his Example inspiring all the rest of his Officers, insomuch that with this small handful of Men he forced Multitudes of the Enemy to fly before Night, leaving behind them incredible Numbers slain upon the place.  
The King would gladly have pursued the Enemy, but that the Night prevented; and that he feared likewise, lest the Cham might come up to their Assistance. In this memorable Victory, the greatest perhaps that has been known in any Age, the King had not actually with him much above five thousand Men, the rest having been left to secure the City of Leopol and the Passes. With this small Party, to defeat by downright Fight an Army of threescore thousand Men, has more of Prodigy than Probability in it; yet so great was the Fright and Consternation of these Tartars, that they fled in one Night as many Leagues as they had marched in three Days before.  
But here this Dispute did not end, for the Cham and Ishmael Bassa, to show they were not dismayed at this ill Success, resolved to march against the King; and in order thereto, commanded a Body of two thousand Janissaries out to attack a Castle near Brzeziani, wherein were only sixty Poles, who defended themselves so bravely, that they repulsed the Enemy with great Loss.  
Soon after a Body of ten thousand Tartars advancing somewhat near the City of Leopol, the King sent out the Lord Harkownisky with a good Squadron of Horse against them, who after a brisk Engagement forced them to take to their Heels, leaving Thousands of their Companions dead upon the Spot. In this Action there were several brave Polish Gentlemen slain.  
Afterwards the King being again joined by the Lithuanians, by which his Army amounted to fifteen thousand Men, marched to seek out the Enemy, though by a modest computation they might be reckoned seven times as many. But understanding that the Enemy had besieged 
Podhais taken by the Turks.  Podhais, he was marching thither to relieve it; when, by the way, he received Intelligence of its being surrendered, burnt and plundered, and twelve thousand Persons made Prisoners, though the Garrison had expressly capitulated to march out with Bag▪ and Baggage. The King was extremely nettled that so many Christians should be made Slaves, and his Territories laid desolate; therefore he resolved forthwith to remedy it, or perish in the Attempt, for he marched the same day towards the Enemy, who were then set down before Buozalz; but upon notice of his Approaches, they raised their Siege, and retreated with all their Forces to Trembowla, which they likewise invested. Here they were often repulsed with great Loss, yet continued obstinate to pursue their Enterprise, till at last happening to intercept a Peasant that was carrying a Letter from the King to the Governor, wherein his Majesty assured him, that he was coming with all speed to his Relief; the Terror of King Sobieski's Name struck such a faintness into the Infidels, that they immediately dislodged their Cannon from their Batteries, which consisted of a hundred Pieces, and forthwith marched towards Caminiec with a great deal of Confusion. Nay, so great was their Consternation, that under the Cannon of Caminiec they thought not themselves sufficiently secure; for not daring to stand an Engagement with the Poles, they resolved to pass the Niester, and march towards Valachia: Yet this they could not do so speedily, but Prince Lubomirski, with part of the King's Army, fell upon their Rear, and slew great Numbers of them. The Turks, by the Fear they were in of being farther pursued, repassed the Danube, and the Tartars returned home with great Precipitation by the way of Bialogrod. Whereupon the King resolved to put his Army into Winter-quarters, and so to return home; which he did to the Joy and Satisfaction of all his Subjects.  
It being now high time to prepare for the Ceremony of the Coronation, January the 17th the Corpse of the late King Michael was conveyed from Warsaw in a Hearse drawn by eight Horses, attended by all the Officers of his Household, and several Persons of Quality, to Cracow; where, together with the Body of King Casimir, likewise brought lately out of France, it was honourably interred, all Decency and Respect being paid to both their Memories. This Ceremony being dispatched, 
His Coronation. 1676.  John Sobieski, with his Queen Mary, were both Crowned in the Castle of Cracow the 2d of February, in the Year 1676, with great Pomp and Magnificence.  
After this the King applying himself to supply the Vacancies (as usual) made Lubomirski Grand Marshal of the Kingdom; the Lord Siniawski Court-Marshal, and Prince Demetrius Wisnowiski Palatin of Beltz. He likewise bestowed the Command of General of the Forces of the Kingdom on Jablownowski Palatin of Russia, at present Great General of Poland.  
In June following Sultan Nuradin, with the two Sons of the Great Cham, passed the Niester with a great Army, having sent out Parties before to ravage the Country. At the same time Ibrahim Bassa advanced likewise to several Posts about Caminiec. Whereupon the King ordered what Troops he could get together near Leopol, where they were to rendezvouz, and likewise convoked the Pospolite, or Militia, for the defence of the Country.  

My Lord Rochester's Embassy into Poland in the Year 1676▪  The same Year his Excellency Mr. Hyde, now Earl of Rochester, was sent Ambassador from his Majesty Charles the IId to the Court of Poland, to congratulate the King upon his Accession to the Crown, and to stand for his Master Godfather to the young Princess, now Electoress of Bavaria. He arrived at Dantzic in August, where meeting with the Queen of Poland, who made a Journey thither while the King was in the Field, he had Audience of her Majesty there, and presented the young Princess her Daughter with a very rich Jewel, a Cross of Diamonds of great Value: He afterwards set forward for Poland, and was received by the King in his Camp near Leopol in Russia, with Demonstrations of Respect and Kindness suitable to his Character and Person; where his Majesty sent some of his chief Officers to show him the Army, and their way of Encamping.  
The Turks and Tartars began to appear now very formidable, and yet at the same time continued so sensible of their last Year's Defeats, and so dreaded the Name of King Sobieski, that they seemed to desire nothing more than Peace; for which purpose the Grand Signior, by the Prince of Moldavia, made 
Peace concludedwith the Turks.  an Overture for a Treaty, which was accepted after a Battle gained by the Poles, and some other small Mischiefs done on both sides.  
The Peace being thus happily concluded to the Advantage of Poland, his Majesty returned in November to Zulkiew, his own Patrimony, whither my Lord Rochester waiting upon him, 
Audience to the English Ambassador.  had his public Audience there in a more solemn Manner than before. He was first carried in the King's Coach, and then received by the Court-Marshal, (who is in the Nature of a Lord Chamberlain) at the Stairs-foot of the Palace, and was conducted to his Majesty, who received him standing under a rich Canopy of State: and after two Months residing there, his Excellency had his Audience of Leave, and returned into England through Silesia, Austria, and the Empire.  
The Poles enjoyed this Peace with the Turks till the Year 1683, when they came under the Command of Cara Mustapha their Grand Vizier, to besiege Vienna, whereof Count Starenberg 
He relieves Vienna.  was Governor. The King, with his Son Prince James, Prince Lubomirski, and most of the Polish Grandees, came with an Army only, as they assured me, of twenty four thousand Men to relieve it. This the King of Poland was obliged to by the Alliance signed with his Imperial Majesty in 1683. When being joined by the Imperial Army, together with the Electors of Bavaria and Saxony, the Duke of Lorain, and a great Number of other Princes of the Empire, in all amounting to near fifty thousand Men; he attacked the Turks with such Bravery and Conduct, that on the 12th of September they, though consisting of 191800 Men, as appeared by a List found in the Grand Vizier's Tent, were obliged, after an entire Defeat, to raise the Siege, and retire 
Defeat of the Turks.  towards Hungary. The great Standard and the Horse's Tail were taken by the Poles, who obstinately pursued the Turks in their flight, though no great way, being too much fatigued before. There was also great Booty found in the Turkish Camp, which was wholly plundered, even to the Tent of the Grand Vizier, where they met with great Riches in Gold, Silver, and other precious things. All their Ammunition and Baggage, with their Artillery, consisting of above a hundred Pieces of Cannon, were taken.  
This mighty Victory was obtained with not above the Loss of a thousand Men on the Christians side, and of those very few Persons of Quality. This Overthrow was chiefly ascribed to the great Conduct and Courage of the King of Poland, who exposed his Person among the thickest of the Enemy, having always by him the Prince his Son, who thus early signalised himself. Nor ought the Electors of Bavaria and Saxony, the Duke of Lorain and Prince Waldec, to go without their share in the Glory, since they all behaved themselves so wonderfully well in this memorable Action.  

His Entry through the Breach of Vienna.  The King made his Entry into Vienna, through the Breach, with great Acclamations of the People, the great Turkish Standard being carried before him, which he afterwards sent to the Pope, and which I have seen hung up in the Church at Loretto in Italy. Next day after his Entry, the Emperor came to meet him, and made him his Acknowledgements with the most endearing Expressions imaginable, while K. John received his Compliments with a Modesty equal to his Courage. After his Imperial Majesty had ordered a rich Sword, set with Diamonds, to be presented to Prince James, he departed, and the King of Poland decamped with his Army, and marched towards 
He pursues the Turks.  Wisena in Hungary, and thence by a Bridge of Boats over the Danube, about a Mile below Presburg, on the twenty fifth of September; and on the twenty seventh the Imperial Army followed him over the same Place.  
On the ninth of October, understanding that a Body of about fourteen thousand Turks lay encamped near Barkan, being the choicest of the remaining Troops, under the Command of several Bassas, the King of Poland, and some of the Imperial Troops, advanced thither. The Turks no sooner saw them, but they marched briskly up, and charged them very desperately; but being as warmly received, after a sharp Encounter the Infidels were put to flight; one of their Bassas slain, another taken, and the rest of them hurrying over the Bridge at Gran, the same broke, and all that were upon it drowned; so that of all that great Body of Men, there were scarce four thousand escaped.  

Takes Zytchin in Hungary.  The next considerable Exploit was the taking of Zytchin, a Place of great Importance in Hungary; for the King having parted with the Duke of Lorain, and understanding that the Turks had a considerable Garrison at that Place which might incommode the Communication betwixt his Troops and the Imperialists, he sent his Son with the Palatin of Lublin to invest it; but the Garrison soon retired into the Castle, which the King immediately commanded to be stormed: Whereupon the Turks hung out a white Flag, and the Commander in Chief, with two others, came out and begged his Majesty to permit them to march to Buda; which was granted, and they left behind them a great Quantity of Provisions and Ammunition. This Town he put into the hands of the Imperialists. Next the King sent to summon two Castles, Brigh and Holoch, which soon yielded at Discretion. Then he returned to his own Kingdom, but left the Lithuanian Troops in Winter-quarters behind him. He arrived at Cracow the 21st of December, where he was joyfully received with Testimonies of an universal Affection from his People; and to render his Triumphs yet more complete, he was saluted at his Arrival with the News of the General of the Cosacks, the Sieur Kiniski's having obtained a great Victory over the Turks and Tartars in the ukraine.  
He afterwards made a League Offensive and 
Enters into a League against the Turks.  Defensive with the present Emperor, the Pope, and Venetians against the Turks, which has continued ever since, though very little to the advantage of either Party. The Poles, since the Siege of Vienna, have been highly disgusted at the ill Treatment they received from the Germans, whom they had delivered from the Turkish Invasion; and besides, it is thought that the King for several Years leaned towards the French Interest.  
'Tis certain, that at last he loved Money so 
Is immoderately Covetous.  well, that I heard the Poles themselves say, That he was the most covetous and richest Prince that ever swayed their Sceptre. Every Year, for the 22 Years he reigned, they computed that he laid up a hundred thousand Pound sterling; all which should have been disbursed in the Expenses of the War, as all his Predecessors were wont to do. Some of the Gentry told me moreover, that if his Son James happened to succeed him, he would be obliged to disburse the best part of that Treasure to pay the eight Years Arrears due then to the Army.  
As for what relates to King Sobieski's Person, 
His Person and Dress.  He was a tall and corpulent Prince, large faced and full eyed, went always in the same Dress with his Subjects; which because it is different from any other in Europe, I thought an Account of it would not be unacceptable to your Lordship. They have all their Hair cut round about their Ears like Monks, and wear 
The Habits of his Subjects.  furred Caps, large Whiskers, and no Neckcloths; a long Coat hangs down to their Heels, and a Waistcoat under that of the same length tied close about the Waste with a Girdle: Their Sleeves are extreme close, like those of Mariners, coming down to their Wrists, with a Flap on the back of the Hand, which reaches as far as the middle Nuckle, which they turn up in hot Wether, and let down in cold, for they never wear any Gloves. This long Coat is of strong Cloth, and is lined in the Winter with rich Fur, but in Summer only with light Silk; though I have seen at Court some of the Persons of Quality wear Furs as they used to do in Winter, for it is a fine Ornament: under this Waistcoat they wear wide Shirts like women's Smocks, tied loose about their Necks, with wide Sleeves coming down to their Wrists. As to their Breeches they are likewise very wide, and with their Stockings make one continued piece. Instead of Shoes they always wear both abroad and at home Turkey Leather Boots with very thin Soles, and hollow deep Heels made of a blade of Iron bend hoopwise into the form of a Halfmoon. They carry a large Scimitar, the Sheath equally flat and broad from the handle to the bottom; it's generally set richly with Diamonds, according to the Quality of the Person. It's customary all over the Kingdom, not only among the Gentry, but also amongst the Vulgar, to carry Pole-Axes in their Hands, or on their Arms; they take care that this Pole-Ax be kept bright and shining, with Plates of Silver round the handle, and sometimes set with Jewels. I have seen the Palatins and other Senators come with those Pole-Axes into the King's Presence, which seemed when I came first to Court a●● frightful Sight, though reckoned an Ornament; but I was informed that at first it was for Defence, the Nation being tumultuous and quarrelsome, that they might make use of these Pole-Axes in a Throng where their Scimiters could be of no use. This Dress looks extreme manly, particularly on Horseback, and is the most expensive of any that I have seen in Europe; for their Furs are very fine and dear, their very Fur Cap cost sometimes 20 or 30 Guineas: they change the Fashion of making their Clothes as often as our Western Countries do.  

His Character.  The King was a well spoken Prince, of very easy Access, and extreme civil, and had most of the good Qualities requisite in a Gentleman; he was not only well versed in all Military Affairs, but likewise in all Polite and Scholastic Learning; besides his own Tongue the Sclavonian, he understood the Latin, French, Italian, German and Turkish Languages; he delighted much in Natural History, and in all the parts of Physic; he used to reprimand the Clergy for not admitting into the University and Schools the Modern Philosophy; he loved to hear Persons discourse of those Matters, and had a particular Talon to set People about him very artfully by the Ears, that by their Disputes he might be diverted, as happened often in my time, especially 
He engages the Author in a Physical Dispute.  once when I was undesignedly concerned myself; the King being at Dinner, and having the Bishops of Posnania, Plosko, Vilna, and other Divines about him, particularly Father Vota, an ingenious Jesuit, the King asked me in Latin, What part of the Body I thought the Soul was in? I was willing to decline talking of that Subject, and told the King, That being a Physician, my chief Enquiry was about the Body, and that the Divines there present were able to satisfy his Majesty. The King replied, That since the Soul has an Influence upon the Body, and since the Passions of the Mind, as Anger and Fear, breed Fevers and other Distempers, it was necessary that the Physicians should examine the Soul in that respect as well as the Body. I answered, That Physicians did inquire into the Nature of Passions, and observed that there was such an Influence of the Soul upon the Body, and of the Body upon the Soul, that altered the thoughts of the one as well as the Operations of the other; but that the Soul being a Substance invisible, and without Extension, it was impossible for Physicians to conceive the Nature of it themselves, or explain it to others, as they do that of the Body, which they take into pieces by Anatomy, and resolve into its minutest Elements by Chemistry; that the Physicians only agree in the main, that the supreme Author of things has established such Laws between the Soul and the Body, which make a mutual Correspondence between them; that as for the Seat of the Soul, I might perhaps differ from the Divines then present, and consequently oppose the common Doctrine of the Schools, for they hold, with Aristotle, that the Soul is entire in all the Body, and wholly in every part of the Body, which was impossible to conceive; for if the Soul was entire in every part of the Body, there would be as many Souls in the Body as there are Parts, since it is impossible that the selfsame Substance, though an indivisible Spirit, can ever be in two places at the same time; besides, the Soul can't be but where it does think▪ and every one finds by Experience, that his Thought is not in his Hands nor Feet, but is conscious to himself that his Thought is in his Head, and that consequently the Soul must be only in the Brain, which is the Seat of Sensation, and the Origin of all the Nerves, which are the Organs of Perception and Motion. Father Vota being alarmed at this Doctrine, which seemed altogether new in that part of Europe, said, That if the Soul was only in the Head, the rest of the Body would be dead, since the received Opinion was, that the Soul was the Life of the whole Body, and that to enliven the whole Body, the Soul must be wholly present in every part of it. This drew on a longer Dispute than I expected; for I answered, That the Rational Soul was not the Life of the Body, but the Blood only and the Animal Spirits, and that this Blood and Spirits circulated equally all over the Body, and gave it its natural Heat and Motion, which is properly its Life: and that this Circulation of the Blood and Spirits could not possibly depend on the Rational Soul, because it was an involuntary Motion form by the Mechanic Structure of the Body, and by the natural Impulse of the Heart, which is the Primum Mobile of the whole Machine; and that though they all held not only in Poland, but in other Countries, that the Rational Soul performed every minute Action in the Body, yet this Opinion was irreconcilable with the free Will of the Mind, which they all admitted▪ for since they allow that whatever the Soul does, not only it is conscious of it, but likewise does it freely without being necessitated thereto; when as it is evidently obvious to every one, that the vital Motions in our Bodies, I mean the Motion of the Heart, and that of Respiration, with the Peristaltic Motion of the Stomach and Guts, are performed naturally with such Mechanism that the Soul can't stop them; no nor as much as hasten or retard them, and that the Soul is not at all conscious of them; for if we think of any Object, or not think at all, as when we are asleep, or in an Apoplex, those vital Motions go on equally the same.  
The Bishop of Posnania, who was bred up in his Youth a Physician, seemed to speak in favour of this Opinion, as did likewise some others of the Company; which made the Jesuit very angry, insomuch that he acquainted them in a kind of Passion, That neither the King nor they ought to hearken to any Discourse contrary to the received Opinion of the Church; that it might have been a pernicious Discourse had it been public: for (says he) if the Soul be not in all the Body, and if it does not animate the Body and perform all its vital Functions, it would be of no use, and consequently we should live like other Animals. I answered him, That doubtless the Operations of Life were performed by the same Mechanism in us as they were in Brutes, since we have the same Organs with them, as likewise the same Fluids to enliven us: That the Prerogatives of the Soul are not less for its not being present to every Action of the Body; for the Soul, though it is not the cause of spontaneous or vital Motion in us, yet it performs all voluntary Actions, as speaking, walking, and all other free Motions of the Body; it received all Impressions from the five Senses; it forms to itself all Ideas of ambient Objects: it reasons upon them, to know what's most useful and hurtful to itself, and to the Body. The Soul, in short, is like the Pilot, though it does not set the Body in motion, as the Wind does a Ship, yet it is capable of governing its Actions, and directing voluntarily its Course.  

The Dispute continues.  The King being thus satisfied, that the rational Soul did not actuate, as they call it, or enliven all the Parts of the Body, desired to know what was properly Death. The School Divinity maintains that Death was a Separation of the rational Soul from the Body. I owned indeed that in Death the Soul was actually separated from the Body, but I could not allow that that Separation was the cause of Death, but that the Death of the Body was the Cessation of the Motion of the Heart, of the Blood, and of the Spirits; which Cessation could not proceed from the Separation of the Soul, since these don't at all depend upon it, as I proved before; but it was occasioned by some Defects in the Organs and Fluids of the Body, which losing their due Disposition, and their mutual Correspondence with one another, all their Actions cease, which Cessation is properly called Death; so that the Soul finding them incapable of receiving its Influence, and of obeying its Commands, quits the Body after it is dead: by which it appears that the Separation of the Soul is not properly the Cause of Death, but that the Death of the Body is the cause of the Separation. The King himself illustrated this Opinion with a familiar Example of an Organ and an Organist: While the Organs were in their due order and symmetry, the Organist played upon them; but when by length of time they were either broke, used too much, or any other way quite put out of Tune, he leaves off playing on them.  
This Discourse, my Lord, held from three of the Clock till seven, and the Divines were extremely warm in it; and some of them had the boldness to tell the King, that his Majesty should not suffer such Heretical Opinions (as they called them) to be introduced before such a great Assembly, contrary to the received Doctrine of the Church. This Discourse caused a great many other Matters to be talked on, of which it would be too long to inform your Lordship. By this you may plainly see how fond the Divines are of their old Opinions, relying upon the Doctrine of Aristotle, whom we can't suppose to be so throughly acquainted with the Structure, Springs, and Motions of the Humane Body, nor indeed with all other Natural Causes, as the Modern Physicians are: yet it is the Policy of the Divines, not only in Poland, but in Spain, Italy, and in most other Countries where their Power is very great, not to let any Opinions creep in among them, that would seem to contradict those of Aristotle; for having built their Systems of Divinity upon the Principles of this Pagan Philosopher, they are justly afraid, that if Experience and Reason should shake the Foundation, the Superstructure would fall to the Ground, as doubtless it would for the most part.  

His Buildings.  This King built several fine Houses both in Russia, and other parts of the Kingdom, particularly three Miles from Warsaw, a neat Country House called Villa Nova, very richly furnished. He has had several Natural Children, but took no care of any of them; for it is not customary in Poland to have that Consideration for them as there is in other Countries: but he left vast Riches to his Lawful Children, and made a Motion in the Diet five 
His Care of his Children.  or six Years before he died, to settle the Succession on one of them. He told the Assembly of the Disorders that usually happened in Elections after the King's Death; that the Turks and the Tartars took then Opportunities to make Inroads into the Country and ravage all before them; that the Nobility of the Kingdom were generally divided, headed by Factions, and biased by Self-interest against the public Good of their Country; and that he himself would be glad to prevent all those dangerous Broils before he died, out of the Love he bore to his Country, and Subjects. But the Diet finding that his private Design was to get one of his Sons elected, answered, That they hoped that his Majesty would live yet a long while; that it was necessary to take a long time to consider of a Matter of that great moment: which the King seeing it was a civil way of refusing to enter upon that Subject, never after intimated any thing to them like it, but took all possible care to enrich his Children in case none of them should be elected after his Death. It was exactly computed to me that he laid up every Year for above twenty Years 100000 l. Sterl. which 
His great Riches.  he left partly in Bankers Hands at Dantzick, Hamburgh and Amsterdam, and put the rest into the hands of the Jews, who are very numerous in that Kingdom, to trade with it; besides, he bought great Territories in the Kingdom, though it is against the Constitution; so that his three Sons, James, Alexander and Constantino, if they manage their Affairs right, may be worth each above 50000 l. Sterling per Annum; for it is the Law in Poland, to divide equally the Estate among the Children.  

The Queen's first coming into Poland.  The Queen was but ten or twelve Years of Age, when she together with the present Duke of Gordon's Aunt, afterwards married to Count Morstin great Treasurer of Poland, came from France into this Kingdom, with Ladislaus King of Poland's Queen, who made them both her Maids of Honour, and took great care of Madamoiselle d' Arquien, being very ingenious 
Her first Marriage.  and beautiful: She got her married first to Prince Zamoiski, who soon left her a Widow, with a Jointure of about 2000 l. a Year; she was afterwards married in Casimir's Reign to John Sobieski, than Captain of the Guards, who was not very willing to marry her until the King promised that he would give him considerable Places, which he accordingly did by the Instigation of the Queen, for he made him Great Marshal, and Great General of Poland, which gave him Authority and Interest enough to make himself afterwards King, and her Queen; so that this Marriage was the occasion of his Rise in the World, which he was so sensible of, that he refused to be divorced from her, as the Diet would have persuaded him to do after his Election.  

Her Age, and Qualifications.  The Queen is now about fifty four Years of Age, though she appears not to be forty; she goes in the French Dress, as all the Polish Ladies do; she speaks almost naturally the▪ Polish Tongue; which with liar sweet Temper, refined Sense, and majestic Air, gained her such Affection with the Poles, such Influence over the King, and such Interest always in the Diet, that she managed all with a great deal of Prudence, and that to the advantage of her native Country France, whose Interest she generally espoused upon most occasions during the King's Life; which was believed to be the Cause that he did not carry on the War with vigour these late years against the Turks and Tartars. She maintained at her Court her Father Cardinal D' Arquien, and her Brother Count Maligny, who had but a very small Estate of their own. She has two Sisters, one is the Widow of the late Count Bethune, who was Ambassador from France in Poland, and afterwards died in his Embassy in Sweden; the other is the Widow of a Nobleman in Poland.  

Her Address in disposing of Employments.  The Queen had the Art to dispose of all the Employments in the Kingdom for Money; for the King, who by the Constitution ought not himself to sell any Place, gave to understand privately, that all Persons should apply themselves to her first, that she might secretly negotiate the Price of every Preferment; which she did very industriously, and obliged them furthermore to take an Oath to espouse the Interest of one of her Children after the King's Death. The Poles never scrupled those Oaths, though they were resolved to keep them no longer than they thought it for their Interest, which was manifested at this last Election, in which so few appeared for Prince James; for this unlawful way of treating the Nobility, together with the King's extreme Covetousness, and Prince James' Inconstancy towards his Friends, set the Minds of the Gentry against them.  

Pr. James his Character.  This Prince is black, has a thin and meager Look, and is of a low Stature, more like a Frenchman or a Spaniard than a Pole; he is very sociable and courteous. He is now about the Age of thirty, and has made several Campagns with the King his Father, particularly that of Vienna; and had his Conduct been answerable to his Courage, he would doubtless have made a more considerable Party: He is extremely Liberal, which is the only good Quality he excels his Father in: He was first contracted in Marriage to the rich Heiress of the House of Radzevil in Lithuania, who was Widow of the present Elector of Brandenburg's Brother, who died without Issue. An Envoy was sent to Berlin to negotiate the Marriage, which was agreed upon by the Elector's and her Consent, and the Prince himself came thither in Person with a numerous Attendance to consummate it. At the same time came to Berlin the Elector Palatin Brother, Prince Charles' of Newburg, Brother to the Empress, to see the Ceremony of the Marriage; but this Princess taking more fancy to him than to the Prince of Poland, gave him encouragement 
His intended Marriage disappointed;  to make his Addresses to her; which he did with that success, that he engaged her so far, and so unexpectedly, that he was privately married to her the night before she was to be married to the Prince of Poland, so that Prince James was forced to return back shamefully: which the King his Father resented so highly, that he was resolved to have satisfaction from the Elector of Brandenburg for suffering his Son to receive so notorious an Affront at his Court; but the Elector knowing nothing of that private Intrigue, justified himself, and all Animosities were at last adjusted by Prince James' marrying his Rival's Sister, 
But married to another.  the Princess of Newburg, who was sent into Poland, and has two Daughters by him. This Account I learned in Poland, which was lately confirmed to me here in Town by the Sieur Dankelman, now Envoy Extraordinary from the Elector of Brandenburg at our Court.  

A Character of his two Brothers.  Prince James has two Brothers, Alexander and Constantine, who were not taken notice enough of in my time, to give your Lordship a Character of them, the eldest being but eighteen, and the other sixteen. Alexander was a tall and proper young Man, of a true Polish Complexion. The Queen had more kindness for him than for Prince James, as I observed when he was any ways indisposed; she was very careful of his Health, and did not seem much concerned for Prince James, though he was a weak and sickly Person.  

Little Respect paid to the King's Children.  I was surprised to see the little deference the Nobility paid to these Princes, who did not seem to take much more notice of them than of other Gentlemen, and treated them very familiarly: for they say that the King's Sons, by the Law, are no more than Gentlemen; and that if they give them the Title of Prince or of Highness, it is more out of Courtesy to them, and Respect to the King, than out of any Obligation they lay under to do it. The People had more Esteem for Prince Alexander and Constantine, because they were born after the King's Election, than for Prince James, who was born before; for they superstitiously imagined that some Royal Stamp was engraven upon them, or some Royal Tincture infused into their Blood, to give it a more exalted Nature. Prince James was Knight of the Golden Fleece, which made him obnoxious to the French Party. Prince Alexander and Constantine are, since my time, made (as I am told) Knights of the Holy Ghost, as the King himself was, which makes them suspected to the House of Austria to be of the French Faction.  

The Character of the Princess.  The King had one Daughter, the Princess Teresa Cunigunda, now about twenty three years of Age, who, though she be not a complete Beauty, yet is a very comely Lady, of a middle size; and though she has not the Life and Vivacity, nor the Air and Wit of the Queen her Mother, yet has she a great deal of Sense, Modesty, and all the Accomplishments becoming her Birth: She is well versed in the French, Italian, Latin, and the Polish Languages; though she seems in her Carriage and Discourse to be humble, obliging, and of an easy affable Temper, yet she is of herself high-spirited and 
Her Marriage.  imperious. She was married in my time to his Highness the present Elector of Bavaria, who twice sent thither Baron Zell, and afterward Baron Simeoni, his Envoys Extraordinary, to negotiate and conclude this Marriage: for the Duke of Bavaria having had but one Son by his deceased Electoress, the Emperor's Daughter by the Infanta of Spain, younger Sister to the late Queen of France; and this young Prince being designed to be King of Spain, if the present King should die without Issue, as is likely to be, the Bavarians were afraid their Country should be reduced into a Province, and therefore desired the Elector to marry a second time, to have more Children that might reign over them, in case the eldest Son should be called into Spain.  
The King and Queen of Poland agreed to this Match, and gave 500000 Rix Dollars for 
Her Portion.  her Portion, besides Jewels and other Expenses in her Journey, and the third part of her Mother's personal Estate when she dies, which is reckoned at 50000 Rix Dollars more. The Ceremony of the Marraige was performed 
Ceremony of her Marriage.  in the Month of August at Warsaw in the Year 1694, with a great deal of Splendour and Magnificence. Most of the Persons of Quality and their Ladies and Children came to this Solemnity from all Parts of the Kingdom; for there had not been a Princess of Poland married for above 150 years before. The Ladies were very richly dressed, and I saw at that time more Jewels in that Court, than in any other that ever I was at. The Gentlemen and Ladies, after the usual Custom in Poland, gave great Presents to the young Princess, some fine Pieces of Plate, some Watches set with Diamonds, some precious Jewels, every one making a Compliment to her in a very formal manner. It was thought that the presents amounted to the value of 100000 Rix Dollars. The Hospodar of Moldavia sent her a pair of Pendants of a considerable Value. This Custom of making Presents to the Bride is not only for King's Daughters, but for every one else according to their Quality; and the gentlemen's Daughters do not so much reckon upon the Portion their Fathers give them, as upon their Number of Relations and Friends, who are to make them Presents; and the Husband is as diligent to know how many Relations she has, as how much her Father will give her.  

Pr. James officiates as Ambassador.  Upon the day of Marriage Prince James, the young Bride's Brother, took upon him, by the King and the Elector of Bavaria's Consent, the Quality of Ambassador for that day, by reason that the Court would not receive (as was secretly whilspered) Ambassadors from the Duke of Bavaria, as being not an absolute Prince: He went three Miles out of Town in the Morning, and about two of the Clock in the Afternoon made a most solemn Entry on Horseback, having his Brother's Prince Alexander on his Right-hand, and Prince Constantine on his Left, preceded by a great Number of Coaches with six Horses, and a noble Cavalcade of the Polish Gentry, who went two by two.  

The Ceremony continues.  Thus he marched through the City to the Palace, where he was received by the King and Queen; and after half an hour the great Officers of the Crown, the Palatins and other Senators, with an incredible Number of Gentry, began to march from the Palace on Foot two by two, upon Scarlet Cloth spread all along to St. John's Church, being about three hundred Paces; after them Prince James led the Bride, the French Ambassador Monsieur de Polignae led the Queen, and the King came last alone with a grave majestic Countenance. The Ceremony of the Marriage was performed by Cardinal Radziouski the present Primate, who was the King's Relation. Afterwards they returned to the Palace where they were nobly entertained for four days together, with Feasts, Balls, Fireworks, and an Italian Pastoral in nature of an Opera, made upon this occasion by the Secretary of the Pope's Nuncio.  

Equipage for her Journey.  After the Ceremony was over, a splendid Equipage was prepared for the Princess' Journey from Warsaw to Brussels. The Bishop of Ploskow was named Ambassador, and the Palatine of Vilna's Lady, Prince Czartoriski's Daughter, was appointed Embassadress: Monsieur Zalowski the Bishop's Brother and his Lady were likewise named, besides abundance of Gentlemen, and about forty of the King's Lifeguard, to attend her Electoral Highness. The Ambassador represented to their Majesties, that in such a long Journey of near 1000 Miles, and in frosty Wether, it was necessary to send a Physician with the Princess for fear of any Accident or Distemper by the way: one Signior Revelli an Italian, and several other Physicians made Interest for this place; but the Queen would by no means employ any of them, having no Opinion of their Skill. Hereupon, my Lord, I spoke to Mr. Alberti your Brother, Minister there from the Republic of Venice, who had great Interest with the King and Queen, and desired him to get me employed in that Journey, for I longed to be out of that remote Country (though I had not been a twelve Month in it) to come for England: for though the King and Queen had a great deal of Kindness for me, and Prince James (whom the Court Party looked upon to be the King's Successor) promised me a considerable Pension after the King's Death, yet seeing that the King, then being sixty four Years of Age, very corpulent, and labouring under several Distempers, as the Dropsy, Gout, Rheumatism, and Oppression of the Lungs, could not live long, and that Prince James was not beloved; and besides having never had any mind to engage myself to live in any Foreign Country, I resolved to come out of that Kingdom. Their Majesties, not knowing my private Resolution of coming for England, did me the Honour to name me Physician to wait upon the Princess in her Journey, which I was very ready to comply with, though to outward appearance I did not seem much desirous of it; this, my Lord, gave me opportunity to come out of that Country sooner than I could have decently done till the King was dead; which I must owe entirely to the Friendship and Interest of Mr. Alberti, who is a great Lover of the English Nation.  

Begins her Journey.  The Princess set forward on the 11 th' of November following with a Retinue of about two hundred Persons, all which came to Brussels with her, besides abundance of the Nobility who waited upon her Highness to the Frontiers of Brandenburg. The Palatins of the Provinces received and entertained her in all the Towns she passed through with a great deal of Splendour and Expense: our first Reception was at Lowitz, the Cardinal Primate's Castle; here the Princess lay one Night, and was most magnificently entertained. The next was at Posnan, a considerable City in the Province of Posnania, where she lay two Nights: the Palatin and the City made her a Present, entertained all her Retinue, and got Fireworks ready for her Reception. From thence we went to Frankfurt upon the Oder in the E. of Brandenburgh's Country, where his Electoral Highness sent his chief Officers to attend and compliment her: from thence we went to Berlin, where the Elector and Electoress came two Miles out of Town 
Her Reception as Berlin.  with a numerous Attendance to receive her; they took her into their own Coach, and marched in order to the Palace, giving her with roaring of Cannons, and ringing of Bells, all Demonstrations of Respect: Here she lay two Nights; the Court appeared most splendid and very numerous, and the Elector got some Fireworks which represented the King and Queen of Poland, and the Elector and Electoress of Bavaria's Names; there were Balls both Nights, and English Country-Dances, which the Electoress of Brandenburg, being descended from the Blood-Royal of England, delighted extremely in; it was the first time the Princess of Poland had seen any, and therefore was extremely pleased. I was glad to see some of our English Gentlemen, who travelled in Italy in my time, as Mr. Archer, Mr. Ward, Mr. Duncomb, and the late deceased Mr. Tent, made so much of at this Court, and behave themselves so handsomely at the Balls. The Princess of Poland made Presents to the Electoress of Brandenburg, and to most of the chief Officers of the Court; and the Electoress of Brandenburg likewise made her a rich Present of a Poesy set with Diamonds, and to the rest of her chief Officers other Presents. Afterwards we set forwards on our Journey, and were entertained for twelve days together in the Elector's Country; it's usual with him to defray the Charges of all Princes while they are within the limits of the Marquisate of Brandenburg: But when the Princess of Poland went out of it into the other Territories of his Electoral Highness, she bore her own Expenses; the chief Towns notwithstanding, as Magdeburgh and Menden, entertained her, as did likewise the Elector of Hanover, the Bishop of Heidelsheim, and the Bishop of Munster, for we passed through some Skirts of their Territories.  
I must take notice to your Lordship, that passing through a part of the Elector of Hanover's Country, we received News that Count Koningsmark, a Swede, thought to have been familiar with the Princess of Hanover, the Elector's Daughter-in-law, was made away with at that Court, and never heard of since. At last we arrived about the latter end of December at Wesel, a fortified Town belonging to the E. of Brandenburg, upon the Borders of the Rhine, near six days Journey from Brussels; the Elector of Bavaria with his Court came hither to receive his Princess, but the River being full of great Flakes of Ice, he could not pass it in two days: but at last being impatient to see his Bride, he ventured over in a little Boat with Prince Chimay, 
Is met by the Elector.  Baron Simeoni, and two or three more of his Courtiers; I happened to be in the Room when he came in alone by way of the back Stairs, and saluted his Princess with all the tender Expressions of Joy and Affection; and after having spent about half an hour with her in Compliments, he turned to the Ambassador and to the rest of the Company, and thanked us all for the Trouble and Fatigue of so long a Journey; then he and the Princess with the Ambassador and Embassadress withdrew into another Room, where they passed about an hour and an half. In the mean time a great many other of the Elector's Retinue came in, so that the Court was very numerous at Nine of the Clock at Night; and thus the Elector passed till Ten of the Clock, than went to sup abroad, and immediately after Supper came to wait on the Princess again, and about One of the Clock in the Morning he left her and went to Bed to his Inn. He came to her the next Morning to make his Court, and to desire her Consent that the Marriage might be consummated that Night, which being accordingly done, he sent a Courier after Midnight to the King his Father-in-law, to acquaint him therewith. The next Morning there was a rich Hungarian Suit of Clothes given him to wear that day from the King of Poland, valued at 30000 Rix Dollars; it was a long Coat of Crimson Velvet, the Button-holes set with Clasps of Massy Gold, and a Waistcoat of Cloth of Gold set with Diamond Buttons, and a Girdle of fine Turkey Leather wrought with Gold, with massy Gold Clasps likewise set with Jewels, a Scimitar with the Handle richly adorned with Diamonds and Rubies, and an Emerald Ring of great Value, with a rich Zibelin Muff. In the Afternoon we all 
Proceeds on her Journey.  past the River, and next day the Baggage followed: all the Coaches, the King's Guards, and most of the Retinue returned back into Poland; for by the Articles of Marriage no body was to stay with her except two Pages, two Women, and a she Dwarf. The Elector's Guards and Coaches were on the other side of the River to receive the Princess: She went through Antwerp to Mecklin, and from thence to Brussels, where we arrived, after two months' Journey, on the 12 th' of January. I need not acquaint your Lordship with all the Preparations made here by his Highness for the Reception of his Electoress, nor of the Presents he gave to her Retinue, nor the Operas and Comedies purposely made for the Solemnity of her Marriage; I will only say, that I never saw a genteeler Court, better Order, more Formalities, more variety of Dresses, nor the Punctilios of Honour and Courtesy more strictly observed. There were great Rejoices all the first Week, until the Court received the unwelcome News of the Death of our late Queen Mary. Sometime afterwards, having left the Care of the Princess' Health to Monsieur Pistorini the Elector's Physician, I took my Leave of her Highness, and went for Holland, from whence I arrived at London in the Month of February, in the Year 1694/5.  

The King's Sister.  The King of Poland had no near Relations except one Sister, who was married to that Duke Radzivil, who writ in Latin his Travels into the Holy Land, and describes the Pyramids of Egypt; he has been dead several Years, and his Duchess died at Warsaw in my time. What small Reputation I got in that Country in the Practice of Physic was by her Death; for when I arrived at Warsaw, the 
A Consultation of Physicians.  King made me consult with all the Physicians of the Town, which were about ten, concerning her Disease. His Majesty's first Physician was Dr. Ionas an Italian and professed Jew; for your Lordship must understand, that in Poland, particularly at Court, Religion is no Objection against any Person, especially a Physician, since the King at his Coronation promises to protect four Religions, the Roman, which he must seem to be of himself, the Protestant, the Greek, and that of the Jews. I examined the Princess' Disease, and found it was an Ague fomented by an Abscess in the Liver, which made her vomit up all that she took; I thought her Case very desperate, though her ordinary Physicians made no account of it, thinking it was only an Ague which the constant use of Jesuits Powder would infallibly cure. I discovered they were not acquainted with the inward Cause of her Disease, being not versed in Anatomy; wherefore I desired that most of the Learned Gentlemen at Court would be present to hear their Reasons and mine. Dr. Ionas, who spoke first, gave his Opinion that there was no fear; and that she should persist only in the use of the Bark, with which they had crammed her for three Months before; all the rest followed his Opinion. I spoke last, and summed up all their Arguments, to compare them with her Distemper, and declared against their Method, and intimated that I believed she could not live long let them change their Method ever so much for the better. This alarmed the whole Court in a quarter of an hour. The Physicians assured the contrary, and urged that I was a Stranger to the Climate, and to the Princess' Constitution and Disease; and they promised in a little time, though some of them began to be dissident, to set her upon her Legs again: notwithstanding she grew worse and worse every day, and died in a Month's time in the 62 d Year of her Age. The Queen ordered her to be opened, and three Bishops were present, but none of the Physicians would come but myself; we found not only an Abscess in her Liver, but likewise a great many square Stones like Dice in her Gall, Bladder, and other Stones in one of her Kidneys, besides a great deal of Gravel in her Liver, which grated and crumbled its whole Substance into putrid Matter.  

Her Issue.  This Princess left only a Son and a Daughter: Duke Radzivil her Son married a Relation of Prince Sapieha; and her Daughter was married to Prince Lubomirski. Duke Radzivil told me that he travelled here in England when King James II. was Crowned, and that the King his Uncle sent him the Character of Envoy to compliment him upon his Accession to the Throne: He used to admire the Government of England, and to say that it was the best in Europe, except that of his own Country; and the chief Reason he gave me why he preferred the Constitution of Poland, was, that the King of England had a Power of turning People out of Employments, and the common People had the Benefit of the Law, and could buy Estates as well as the greatest Nobleman. This Prince showed me an old Roman Scimitar which his Father brought from Jerusalem, and told me it was that with which St. Peter cut off Malcus' Ear: which a great many had either Faith or Superstition enough to believe, and paid it a great deal of Respect.  
The year after I came into England, the King of Poland's Symptoms increasing more and more, the Ambassador Monsieur Zalowski, Bishop of Ploskow, sent me from Warsaw to London the following Letter, desiring Advice concerning his Majesty's Distemper, which was very uncommon and extraordinary.  


A Monsieur le Docteur Connor à Londres.  
Varsovie 2 Juin 1696. Monsieur,  
EN Attendant que Je vous Envoye les Memoires que vous Souhaitez pour l' Histoire de Pologne & de nôtre Roy, qui requierent quêque loisir, que Je n'ay pas encore pû prendre, comme Je tacheray de faire le plutôt qu'il me serà possible, Vous obligeriez beaucoup sa Majesté si sur l' Information, que vous verrez au bas de cette Lettre touchant l' Etat de sa Santé, Vous vouliez bien prendre la peine d'en donner vos Avis, & Conseils, & d'en prendre aussi des plus habiles Gens de la Profession, dont votre Royaume est si fertile; Vous asseurant que vous en aurez du Merite auprez de leurs Majestez, & que vous travaillerez à votre propre Gloire, que Je Soûhaiteray de voir par là augmentée, étant  
Monsieur, Votre tres-humble Serviteur, E. de Ploskow.   

Information de l'Etat de la Santé du Roy de Pologne.  
SA Majesté à les pies, les jambes, & les cuisses, même la Region Inferieure du bas ventre tumifiées considerablement depuis quêque tems, que ces Tumeurs sont augmenteezde jour en jour depuis cette Eté quelles avoient commencé à paroitre, quoique l'on appliquât les plus efficaces remedes interieurs & exterieurs pour en empecber le Progrez, & pour les dissiper. Lors qu'on presse du doit ces Tumeurs, il ne reste aucun vestige du doit; Carces Tumeurs ont la dureté du Fer & la pesanteur du Plomb: Quand sa Majesté marche elle croit avoir un poid pesant attaché à ses jambes, la dureté de ces Tumeurs ne peut étre amollie, cependant lors qu'on frotte avec un linge chaûd les parties embarrassées & affligées, elles semblent d'abord être Degagées & Soûlagées. Mais peu apres elles retournent à leur premier Etat: La Couleur de ces Parties tumiflées n'est point Pale, mais Pourprée tirant vers le rouge.    

Englished thus.  

Warsaw the 2d of June 1696. SIR,  
I Will send you as soon as possible the Memoirs you desire for the History of Poland and of our King, which require more leisure than I could have hitherto had. In the mean time you would mightily oblige his Majesty, if upon the Information you will find at the bottom of this Letter concerning the State of his Health, you would please to give your Opinion and Advice thereupon, and likewise consult with the Ablest of your Profession, who are so very numerous in your Kingdom, about it. I assure you, you will greatly gain their Majesties Esteem thereby, and advance your own Reputation, which I wish increased by these means. Being,  
SIR, Your most humble Servant, E. Ploskow.   

An Account of the State of Health of the King of Poland.  
HIS Majesty's Feet, Legs, and Thighs, as likewise the lower Part of his Belly, have been considerably swelled for a good while. These Swellings have daily increased since they began this Summer, notwithstanding the most effectual Remedies, both Inward and Outward, which have been made use of to prevent their Progress, and to discuss them. When these Tumours are pressed with one's Finger, they do not pit, for they are almost as hard as Iron, and as heavy as Led. When his Majesty walks, he imagines he has a great Weight tied to his Legs. The hardness of these tumors cannot be softened: Nevertheless, when the swollen Parts are rubbed a little with a hot Cloth, they seem immediately to be abated and eased; but soon after they return to their former condition. The Colour of the Swellings is not pale, but reddish, something inclining to Purple.    

The King's Death.  A Week after I received this Letter, news came that this Prince was dead, as I could not but reasonably expect he would be, labouring under so rare and dangerous a Disease, being a Dropsy turned into a Schirrus, or into a hard and insensible Tumour. Cases of this nature, my Lord, are very seldom seen. I have spoke lately with some old Practitioners in Physic that had never met with any; for my part, I have never observed any Disease like it; and I was at first surprised that the King's Legs, that used to pit an Inch deep when I was at his Court, should become so very hard and so heavy afterwards; but considering that in our Mass of Blood there is, even naturally, a great deal of earthy Parts or Dregs, and that these Lees may, by way of Sediment, fall into the Legs, and that their Weight and Quantity can hinder them from ascending to the Heart with the circulating Fluids, I rather admired why Cases of this nature do not more frequently happen, particularly in old and Plethoric People, as the King was. These hard Swellings of his Legs hindered the Blood to circulate downwards, and so drove up all the Humours to the Head; which oppressing and overflowing the Brain, caused an Apoplexy, of which he died the 17th of June, fifteen days after the date of my Letter, in the Year 1696, in the sixty sixth Year of his Age, and the 22d of his Reign. He was the oldest King then in Christendom. He kept his Subjects in great Awe, and the greatest Noblemen paid him all the Respect imaginable; they never used at Court to eat with him at his Table. He dined always in Public, and the Great Men waited upon him, served him with drink, and none of his Subjects ever covered themselves in his Presence. And I admired to see the Persons that abused him in the Parliament-house, and spoke to him with all freedom when he sat on the Throne, pay him so great a Submission and Respect everywhere else. But the Liberty of a Member of that Parliament is such, that he can speak what he thinks, and think what he pleases, without any Fear of the King.  

The Interregnum.  After the King's Death, Cardinal Radziouski, Archbishop of Gnesna, and Primate of the Kingdom, took the Administration of the Government, as is usual, upon him, and notified the King's Death to foreign Princes, and to all the Governors of the Provinces, and advised with the Senators that were then at Warsaw of the proper Method and fit Time to ohoose a new King. They fixed upon the 29th of August 1696, for the Convocation of the Grand Diet; but there appearing several Competitors, which made powerful Factions, it was thought necessary to take more time to appease the Dissensions of the Nobility. Wherefore the Overture of the Diet was deferred to the 15th of May 1697. They chose the Sieur Belinski for their Speaker, whom they call their Marshal. The chief Competitors were at first 
Competitors for the Crown.  Prince James of Poland, and his Brother Prince Alexander; the Prince of Conti; Don Livio Odeschalchi, and Prince Lewis of Baden: but at last the Elector of Saxony unexpectedly came to the Frontiers of Poland with 8000 Men, and declared himself Candidate, having a twelvemonth before privately abjured his Religion to qualify himself for this Crown, which procured him the Interest of the Pope and Clergy. So that at length no considerable Party appeared but for him, the Prince of Conti, and Prince James. The Cardinal Primate, with a great Number of the Palatins, supported with all their Interest the Prince of Conti, the French having for several years before, as I observed when I was in that Kingdom, given a great Character of his Merit and Valour, which made the King of France believe that he would undoubtedly carry that Crown against all Opposers; as it is probable he would have done, had he been in Person as near the Place of Election as the Elector of Saxony was: For on the 26th of June, being the day of Election, the Diet drew out into the Field, and he had that day more Votes than either the Elector of Saxony or Prince James; which the Primate observing, went with his Party, and immediately proclaimed him King: but the two other Parties knowing this could not be legally done without the universal Consent of the Diet, protested against it as Illegal; and Prince James perceiving his Party to be the weakest, and having always been in the Interest of the House of Austria, as being married to the Empress and Queen of Spain's Sister, resigned all his Interest to the Elector of Saxony, who was likewise supported by the Emperor. These two Parties being thus united into one, were more numerous than that of the Prince of Conti: Wherefore coming next day into the field, they got the Bishop of Cujavia, after the Primate had refused it, to proclaim  

Frederic Augustus. 1697.  FREDERIC AUGUSTUS, Elector of Saxony, King of Poland, and sent Ambassadors to acquaint him therewith, and to desire him to accept of the Crown. All this while the Primate and Prince of Conti's Party stood firm to the first Election, and dispatched Couriers into France to desire that Prince to come with all speed into Poland. The Generals of the Army were divided. Count Jablonowski, Great General of the Kingdom, declared for the Elector of Saxony; Prince Sapieha, Great General of Lithuania, seemed to favour the Prince of Conti: but the Governor of Cracow being for the Elector of Saxony, invited him and his Army to take possession of that capital City, where he was crowned the 15th of September 
Crowned K. of Poland.  following, which did extremely facilitate the good Success he has since had in that Kingdom. For though the Primate and many other considerable Persons did insist on the pretended Legality of their Election; though the Prince of Conti himself came in Person to Dantzic with a Fleet, vast Sums of Money, and some disciplined Troops; though the French Ambassador Monsieur de Polignac had managed a good part of the Army, and a great many of the Senators, with great Art and Policy; though the Turks and Tartars threatened an Invasion to support his Election; and though the Hungarians made an Insurrection in their Country, to divert the Saxon Forces: yet the Poles seeing the Elector of Saxony was actually Crowned; that he was in possession of the Metropolis Cracow, the strongest Town in Poland; that 8000 of his disciplined Troops were in the Kingdom; that the major part of the Army had declared for him, and that the Czar of Muscovy threatened an Invasion if they persisted to support the Prince of Conti; they thought it more advisable to quit his Interest than to give occasion for a Civil War: for I have often heard▪ them say, That Kings were easy enough to be had without shedding Blood for any; and that they were easily deposed if they usurped any greater Authority than the Laws allowed. And therefore they think it more prudent, after having sufficiently emptied the Candidates Pockets, to declare for the first of them that joins his Party, and appears in Arms, since he is deemed qualified, than to expose their Country to ruin and devastation, by adhering to an illegal Election, of which the success is always doubtful: for by their Constitution no Election can be really lawful, nor any Law can be legally made without the universal Consent of the Lords and Commons of both States, Poland and Lithuania, assembled in Parliament.  
The Prince of Conti having full Intelligence of the Posture of Affairs in Poland, did not think it politic to conside any longer in the Promises of the Great Men, who in that Country are naturally sickle, and biased more to their own Interest than any Inclination they have to serve any Prince; for they have no other Notion of Princes than of Tools to raise their own Fortune by. Wherefore this Prince foreseeing no probability of success, the Town of Dantzic having declared for the Elector of Saxony, he thought it more prudent timely to quit his Pretensions by sailing back into France, than to expose his Reputation by being forced to retire when the New King's Authority was more confirmed, as it is looked upon to be at present.  
King Frederick Augustus the IId, being thus left in sole Possession of the Kingdom, is likely to restore the decaying State thereof; for having large hereditary Dominions of his own, out of which he can have both Men and Money, and being likewise naturally animated with a martial Spirit, and moreover King over a most Warlike Nation, which is at present in league against the Infidels with the Emperor, Muscovites, Pope and Venetians: He has opportunity sufficient to enlarge that Kingdom, and extend it to its ancient Bounds the Euxine Sea, by retaking Caminiec and the ukrain.  
I may here take notice that this is the first time the Poles have elected a Germane Prince, and likewise the first that they have excluded their King's Son; for from the Year 550, when this Monarchy began, to this present Election, the King's Children have been always chosen, and the Crown, though elective, has been in the same Family successively for above eight hundred Years. But hereafter it is likely to prove otherwise, for the Gentry of Poland are so jealous of their own Kings, and so covetous to be enriched by foreign Princes, that probably henceforward they will choose no Native. Besides, the Pope will undoubtedly always use his utmost Authority and Interest in that Kingdom to get Protestant Princes elected. For when I was formerly at Rome, I heard the Politicians say, that the best method to make the Protestant Princes of the North Roman Catholics, was to elect them successively to the Crown of Poland. So that if the Pope sees that the present King of Poland's Children are confirmed in the Doctrines of the Church of Rome, he will doubtless after his Death make the same Endeavours to advance to that Throne either the King of Sweden, the Elector of Brandenburg, or the Elector of Hanover, as he has done in favour of the Elector of Saxony; who has been elected to the Crown of Poland, not so much by the Power of his Wealth and Credit in the Kingdom, as by the Influence of the Clergy, privately instigated by the Authority of the Pope. This I gather from a Letter sent me last Summer from Warsaw by my Friend Baron Scarlati, Envoy Extraordinary at that Court from the Elector of Bavaria.  
Thus, my Lord, I have given you as large an Account of John the IIId's Life, and of what passed remarkable at Warsaw in my time, as we need perhaps know of so remote a Country, or I could myself learn in so short a time as I had the honour to reside at that Prince's Court; where I was so much taken up in the Practice of Physic, that I had neither Opportunity nor Time to make all the Political Remarks, which another perhaps that had nothing else to do but to converse with Courtiers and Ladies, might have leisurely done.  
I cannot therefore pretend to give (as is usual) a Character of the King's Favourites, nor of other Great Men about him, nor to acquaint your Lordship with the different Cabals and private Intrigues of that numerous Court. That were a Subject fitter for a Statesman than for me to write of, my Genius and Profession prompting me only to make Observations in Physic, and not in State-Affairs. I hope therefore your Lordship will excuse the deficiency of this Letter, when you consider it was writ by a Physician, and one who values himself only upon it in being with all Respect,  
My LORD, Your Lordship's most obedient humble Servant, B. C.   

LETTER V.  
To the Right Honourable CHARLES Lord Townsend.  
Of the Extent and Products of Poland; together with a Description of the chief Towns and Provinces of the Kingdom.  
My LORD;  
I Know your natural Sagacity, improved so much by your Travels, and constant Application to Sciences and Politics, is no less inquisitive after the Extent and Products of Countries, than after their Maxims of State and Forms of Government: And this I discovered in your Lordship, as well when I met you some years ago in Holland, as since your return to England; and because you then discoursed me often about my Travels into Poland, I thought a Geographical Description of that Country might not be unacceptable to you. I must confess I were not long enough in that Kingdom to survey it exactly, therefore have taken pains to learn not only from the Natives themselves, but also from their correctest Authors, an Account of such Parts of that Kingdom which I could not visit myself.  
I must first take notice to your Lordship, that the King of Poland's Dominions are divided into two different States, which are the Kingdom of Poland, and the Great Duchy of Lithuania. The Constitutions, Language, Customs and Genius of both which Nations are as different as those of England and Scotland, except that one Parliament or Diet serves both, which must nevertheless have one Session in Lithuania to two in Poland, and the Senators and Deputies of each Nation must meet together, as well in the Great Duchy, as in the Kingdom; for no Law can be legally made without the mutual Consent of both. Poland therefore being a distinct Nation of itself, I will here, as I have promised, present your Lordship with a short Description of it alone.  

My Lord;  

The Ancient Extent of Poland.  POLAND, when first founded by Lechus in the Year 550, like all other Nations in their minority, was but a small Tract of Land, in respect of what it afterwards grew to be: for at first it contained only High and Low Poland with Silesia; but in process of time, either through Marriages or Conquests, it became the largest and most powerful Kingdom in Europe, and raised as well the Envy as Jealousy of its Neighbours.  

It's Increase by Conquests:  The first Acquisition to this Crown was the Province of Pomerania, conquered by Lechus, by his having killed Regulus its Prince. Boleslaus Chrobry likewise made Bohemia, Russia, Moravia and Prussia Tributary: But Casimir II. entirely conquered all Prussia in the Year 1183, and Casimir the Great subdued all Russia in the Year 1338, when Maslaus the Duke of Masovia also submitted to the Polish Crown.  
Some time after, Valachia and Moldavia were united to Poland by Conquest; and the Great Duchy of Lithuania added by Jagello's Marriage with Hedwigis Queen of Poland. The large and fertile Province of Livonia was conquered about the Year 1500; and afterwards the Poles extended their Conquests towards Moscovy, when they took the Great Dutchies of Smolensko, Severia and Czernicovia, and in Vladislaus the VIIth's time conquered all that Country. They in like manner enlarged their Dominions towards the Black Sea, for they made themselves Masters of all Vkraina.  

By Policy.  Over and above these vast Conquests, the Poles likewise grew very considerable by electing several potent Neighbours for their Kings, whereby they added to their own Strength that of Bohemia, Hungary, Sweden, and Transylvania, as they have likewise at this juncture that of the Electorate of Saxony. In short, the Poles, in process of time, grew so exorbitantly Powerful, from the XIIIth, to the middle of the XVIIth Century, having in their possession all the Lands between Austria, Moscovy, and the Baltic and Euxine Seas, that they gave their Neighbours the Turks, Tartars, Muscovites, Swedes and Germans, just reason to grow jealous of them: Whereupon these several Potentates, at different times, made most bloody Wars upon them, till by degrees they had brought their Territories to a narrower Compass, and made themselves Masters of the greater part of them. For the Emperor got from them the several Countries of Hungary, Bohemia, Transylvania, Silesia, and Moravia. Valachia and Moldavia now choose Hospodars or Governors of their own, though they are nevertheless Tributary to the Turk. The Turks and Tartars are Masters of Podolia, and the best part of Vkraina, which they overrun in King Michael Korybuth's time; and the Muscovites conquered the other part of it, Kiovia, as likewise all the vast Dutchies of Severia, Smolensko and Czernicovia. The King of Sweden also is now in possession of all Livonia, except the Duchy of Curland, which is left still Tributary to Poland. Ducal Prussia is entirely in the Elector of Brandenburg's hands, of which he is of late an Independent Sovereign. Pomerania is now possessed by the Swedes and Germans between them; and Dantzic is in the Nature of a little Republic or Hans-Town, yet under the Protection of Poland.  

Present Extent.  Thus your Lordship may observe, that the neighbouring Princes have clipped so close the Skirts of this vast Empire, that they have reduced it to one Third of what it has heretofore been. Yet notwithstanding all these Losses, it is still reckoned to the full as large as the Kingdom of France; but its Frontiers towards Tartary are altogether desolate, most of the Inhabitants having been carried away into Captivity, either by the Turks or Tartars.  
To give your Lordship a just Account of the present Extent of Poland, I must divide it into its several remaining Provinces, which are but Eight, Viz.  


Little & Great Poland.  
Regal Prussia.  
Russia.  
Masovia.  
Samogitia.  
Volhynia  
& Podlachia.    
But first a word or two of the Country in general.  

Its Bounds.  Poland, together with the Great Duchy of Lithuania, is now bounded on the North by Moscovy, Livonia, and the Baltic Sea; On the South by Moldavia, Transylvania, and Hungary; On the East by Vkraina, which belongs to the Turks, and the Dutchies of Smolensko, Severia, Czernicovia, and Kiovia, which are now in possession of the Muscovites; and on the West by Pomerania, Brandenburg, Bohemia, and Silesia. It extends itself from South to North, that is, from the Carpathian Mountains to the Gulf of Riga, about 200 Leagues, from the 45 Degree 36 Minutes, to the 55 Degree 29 Minutes of Latitude; and from East to West, that is, from Smoleusko and the ukraine, to the Frontiers of Pomerania, Bohemia, and Silesia, above 240.  

Soil.  It's Soil, for the most part, is Champain, though towards the Borders of Hungary very mountainous and woody; yet as it declines from thence, it generally grows more fruitful. There is only one great Mountain in the middle of Lesser Poland, called Mons Calvus, The Bald Mountain, though it has a Monastery on the top of it, surnamed the Holy Cross, and dedicated to our Saviour. What others you shall meet with may be rather termed little Hills than Mountains. The Eastern Part of this Kingdom is full of Forests, Woods, Marshes, Lakes and Rivers which afford a delightful Vista to the open Country.  

Its Products.  Heretofore Poland is said to have been almost all Woods; but now, being cultivated by the Industry of its Inhabitants, it produces everywhere all kinds of Fruits, Grains, and Herbs: Nay, it wants for neither Fowl nor Fish; and moreover, abounds with all sorts of tame and wild Beasts. There are also Vines in many Places, whose Grapes are not ungrateful to the palate, especially if the Summer and Autumn are never so little favourable; but the Wine is generally very sharp when it has once been drawn off. In the Mountains are to be found Mines of Silver, Copper, Led, and Iron, with divers other kinds of Minerals; as also Salt, which is commonly taken out in huge Masses, like Stones out of a Quarry. The Western part of this Kingdom produces a great deal of Corn, which is transported in considerable Quantities into foreign Countries; and besides, it abounds with Honey, Wax, Hemp, and Linen for Sails: All which are carried to Dantzic, and from thence transported.  

Number of Towns and Villages.  The greatest Part of the Towns, and all the Villages of this Kingdom, are of Timber and Thatched, the gentlemen's Houses in the Country being also of the same Make. The whole Number of Cities, Towns, Boroughs and Villages in Poland amounts to near a hundred and seventy thousand, whereof there are not much above twenty walled. There are two sorts of Cities in this Kingdom; the First belong to the Republic, of which the King names the Governors and other Officers; and the Second are under the Dominion of particular Signior by hereditary Succession, of which there can be no other Starostas but their own peculiar Lords.  

Climate.  The Air of this Country is suitable to the Climate, and sometimes so exceeding cold, that Water freezes ere it falls to the ground. And Lakes and Rivers are so frozen up, that Coaches and loaded Carts pass over them for five or six Months together, even to the end of March.  

Rivers,  The most remarkable Rivers of this Country are, 

The Weissel or Vistula.  
The Wart or Varta.  
The Nieper or Boristbenes.  
The Niester or Tyra.  
The Dwina or Duna.  
The Bog or Bobus.  
The Bug or Bugus.  
The Niemen or Nemenus.    

Their several Courses.  The Weissel or Vistula takes its rise in the Duchy of Teschen in Silesia, out of Mount Carpathus (now Crapack) and runs by the several Cities and Towns of Oswieczin, Cracow, Sendomir, Casimir, Lublin, Warsaw, Plocskow, Vladislaw, Thorn, Culm, Bromberg, Grandentz, Newenburg, Elbing, Marienburg, and Dantzic. This River anciently separated Sarmatia Europea from Germany, and having continued its Course for above a hundred Polish Miles, divides itself into two Streams, emptying one into the Bay of Frischhaff, and the other into the Baltic Sea, vulgarly called De host Zee.  
The Wart or Varta arises in Lesser Poland; and after having watered Siradia, Kalisch, Posnan, Olstin, etc. falls into the Oder, a River of Silesia.  
The Nieper or Boristhenes, waters Smolensko, traverses part of Lithuania, runs through Kiow or Kiovia, crosses the ukraine, and at length rolls into the Black Sea near Ockzakow.  
The Niester rises near the Lake of Leopol; and having run by Halitz, Caminiec, etc. discharges itself in like manner into the Black or Euxine Sea near Bialogrod.  
The Duna, or Dwina, springs near Biata in Moscovy; when having passed by Witebsko, Polocz, Dunenburg, Kokenhauz, etc. with a Course of 130 Leagues, it at last throws itself into the Gulf of Riga in Livonia.  
The Bog, or Bobus, takes its Origin from a Lake in the Frontiers of Podolia; and having passed by Constantinow, Bar, and Braclaw, it falls into the Nieper near Ockzakow.  
The Bug springs in Red- Russia, near Olesko, or Zborow; and having run by the several Places of Glituani, Beltz, Sokal, Vlodzimierz, Chelm, Bresty, and Warsaw, falls into the Weissel by Wischegrod.  
The Niemen, or Nemenus, arises near Slonim, or rather Nessivicz, in the Palatinate of Novogrodec, and waters the Sides of Novogrodec, Bielcz, Grodna, Troki, Vilna, and after runs into the Baltic near Tylsa.  

Its Lakes.  In Lower or Greater Poland, Cujavia, and the Territory of Lublin, there are several considerable Lakes, replenished with all sorts of fresh Fish. The chief of these Lakes is Goplo, five Miles long, and half a Mile broad. Next there is Biale, otherwise named The White Lake; which might be so called by an Antiphrasis, because in the Months of April and May it dies Skins with a sort of swarthy Tincture.  
To proceed according to my Division of this Country, in which I have followed Starovolscius, I must begin with the first Province of this Kingdom, which is  

I. PROVINCE.  Great or Low Poland, bounded on the North by Pomerania and Prussia, on the South by Upper or Lesser Poland, on the East by Masovia, and towards the West by Silesia, and the Marquisate of Brandenburg. It is called Great Poland, because Lechus, the Founder of this Kingdom, first settled there, and divided it into two Parts: Viz. 
It's Division.   

1. Greater Poland, properly so called; and  
2. Cujavia.   
Both which contain seven Palatinates; Viz. The Palatinates of 

Posnania, to which belongs the Territory of Wschow.  
Kalisch.  
Siradia, to which belongs the Territory of Vielunia.  
Rava.  
Lanschet.  
Bresty, and  
Inowlocz.    
Of these, the two last only belong to Cujavia.  
The chief of all these seven Palatinates is  

I. Palatinate.  Posnania, in which are these several Cities and Towns; Viz.  

Posnan 

Bishopric.  
Palatinate, and  
Castellany.    
Gnesna 

Archbishopric, and  
Castellany.    
Koscien.  
Vskow.  
Sremsk.  
Miedzyrzeeze.  
Nacum.  
Curnic.  
Slupeia.  
Pysdra.  
Kcina.  
Conin.  
Premecz, and  
Ragozno.   

Cities and Towns of Posnan.  The capital City of all which is  
Posnan, called by the Germans Posen, situate upon the River Varta in the 39th Degree of Longitude, and 52 of Latitude. It is 7 Miles distant from Gnesna to the West, 20 Germane Miles from Vratislaw to the North, and 50 from Cracow to the South. It lies in the midst of several little Hills environed with a strong double Wall, and a very deep Ditch. The City itself, it must be confessed, it but small, yet nevertheless exceeding beautiful and well-built, its Edifices being for the most part of Freestone. Among the public Structures, the most considerable is the Castle raised upon a small Eminence between the Rivers Varta and Prosna. It is generally provided with all sorts of Ammunition, and wants for neither Strength nor Beauty. The rest of the Public Edifices may justly claim the like Character, though the most stately lie on the other side the River Varta in the Suburbs, which are very large. Here is the Cathedral Church with a College of prebend's, and the Bishop's Palace situate among the Marshes. This Pile of Building is commonly called Valisovia, and built so strong, that like the Town, it is able to withstand a Siege. John Lubranscius, a Bishop of this See, founded here a College to be visited by that of Cracow, and which was afterwards very much augmented and beautified by Adam Conarius his Successor, and farther enriched by one Rosrasevius with several noble Gifts: So that now the Jesuits have a College in the City, where Learning is greatly encouraged. Yet this also in the Suburbs does not want for noble Youth, who daily flock thither to be instructed by the Lectures of Mathematics and Law. These Suburbs are all surrounded by a Morass and a great Lake. They are frequently laid under water by the overflowing of the Varta, insomuch that sometimes with the neighbouring Villages for several Miles together, the tops of the Houses are only to be seen. This Inundation likewise often extends to the Town itself, notwithstanding its high Walls, in a manner that Boats have been known to swim about the Streets: But this lasts not long, for the Waters commonly retire in two or three days at farthest. There are three very famous Fairs kept in this City, whither the Germans, both Traders and Gentry, come in great Numbers. The first of these is kept about the beginning of Lent, and lasts a Month. The second at Michaelmas, and continues five Weeks; and the last at Midsummer, which is for the same time.  
The Inhabitants of this City are generally Roman Catholics, though vast Numbers of Jews live also among them. The Government is executed by a Starosta, chosen yearly out of the Schipins, or Aldermen, who, as long as this Office lasts, enjoys also the Title of General of Great POLAND.  

Gnesna.  Seven Miles from hence lies Gnesna, situate among Bogs and Hills, and called also by the Germans Gnicsen. It is an Archbishop's See, and gives Title to the Primate of all Poland. It is distant three Polish Miles from the River Varta to the North, seven from Kalisch to the South, as many from Posnan to the East, and about thirteen from Thorn, thirty from Dantzic, and thirty three from Warsaw to the Northwest. It was formerly Metropolis of the whole Kingdom, having been built by Lechus, the first Founder thereof, and so named from an Eagles' Nest, as is to be seen in the Life of that King.  
This City was almost consumed by Fire in the Year 1613. and is at present chiefly considerable for being the usual Residence of the Archbishop and Primate of Poland, who yet enjoys very great Privileges. In the Cathedral is reposited a great quantity of inestimable Treasure, most of which is owing to the Tomb of St. Adalbert raised in the middle of the Church, cased about with Silver by Sigis●●nund III. and to the Gifts of Henry F●●rleius, late Archbishop of that See, who, among other Rarities, gave his own Mitre, valued at 24000 Polish Gilders, or near 2000 l. Sterling. The Gates opening to this Church are all of Corinthian Brass curiously wrought, which were first taken from the Monastery of Corsuna in Taurica Chersonesus, afterwards removed to Kiow, and thence brought hither by order of Boleslaus II. Here are several Fairs kept, the chief whereof is that on the Feast of St. Adalbert.  

Koscien.  Koscien, a Town built in a Plain among Marshes, and defended with a double Wall and a broad and deep Ditch: It is about seven Miles from Posnan.  

Uskow.  Vskow, a walled Town situate in a Plain likewise, and about eleven Miles from Posnan.  

Sremsk, etc.  Sremsk, Premeezes and Ragozno, three Timber built Towns belonging to the Jurisdiction of Posnan.  

Miedzyrzecze.  Miedzyrzecze, a Town built for the most part with Wood in a Plain amongst Rivulets and Marshes, and which also its Name imports: It is situate upon the ●●onfiries of Silesia and Pomerania, and has a strong Castle fortified both by Art and Nature, and, which 'tis commonly conjectured, could hardly be taken unless it were starved. This several Germane Princes have experienced at their Costs, who after a long and fruitless Siege of it, have at length been forced to return home again re infectâ. It is about 15 Miles from Posnan.  

Slupcza.  Slupcza, a Town upon the Wart with a very strong Wall, and other suitable Fortifications.  

Pysdra.  Pysdra, a Walled Town upon the Wart likewise, built in a Plain among Woods, and nine Miles from Kalisch.  
The other Towns of this Palatinate are some of them walled, and chiefly built with Wood, except only the public Edifices, such as Castles, Towns, Churches, Monasteries, Abbeys, etc. which are all either Stone or Brick.  

Senators of Posnania.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, 

The Archbishop of Gnesna,  
The 

Bishop  
Palatine and  
Castellan   of Posnania.  
The Castellans of 

Sremsk,  
Miedzyrzecze,  
Premecz,  
Ragozno,  
Kriven, and  
Zandoc.      
There are moreover several other Officers in this Palatinate, as well Civil as Military. The Starostas or Governors of Cities have some of them Jurisdiction, and some none, as it is likewise all the Kingdom over.  

It's Arms.  The Standard and Arms of this Palatinate are an Eagle expanded Argent in a Field Gules.  

II. Palatinate.  The second Palatinate of Great Poland, is that of  
Kalisch, in which are these Cities and Towns,  

Kalisch 

Metropolis, and  
Castellany,    
Kolo,  
Land,  
Naklo,  
Odolanovia,  
Chocia,  
Stave,  
Cosmin,  
Dohra,  
Grabow,  
Opatovec, and  
Plesovia.   

Cities and Towns of Kalisch.  The Chief City of all which is  
Kalisch, built among Marshes upon the River Prosna, and fortified only with a Brickwall, and some low Towers. It has in it some Religious Houses, and a very magnificent College for Jesuits, founded by Stanislaw Karncovius, Archbishop of Gnesna. Here are the Ruins of a strong Castle remaining, which had formerly been destroyed by the Teutonick Knights.  

Kolo.  Kolo, a Timber-built Town, walled with Mud and Dirt: At certain times it is encompassed and washed by the River Wart, near which it is built. It is about eight Miles from Kalisch.  

Land.  Land, a Town upon the Wart, about four Miles from Gnesna.  

Naklo.  Naklo, a Timbered Town near the Lake Goplo, with a walled Castle situate among the Marshes.  

Odolanovia.  Odolanovia, a Town with a Castle, built likewise among the Marshes.  

Chocia.  Chocia, in which Andrew Lipski, Bishop of Cracow, founded a Collegiate Church with vast Expense.  
The other Towns of this Palatinate are not very considerable, and therefore are omitted.  

Senators of Kalisch.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, 

The Palatin and Castellan of Kalisch,  
The Castellans of 

Land,  
Naklo, and  
Kamin.      
The Standard and Arms of this Palatinate, It's Arms. are a Buffaloes' Head erased, Sables, with a Crown between his Horns, all in a checky Field, Argent and Gules.  

III. Palatinate.  The third Palatinate of Great Poland is that of  
Siradia, situate along the River Varta, or Wart, being divided into four Districts, viz. The Districts of 

Siradia,  
Schadkow,  
Radomsko, and  
Petricovia.    
In all which are the several Cities and Towns of 

Siradia Cap.  
Rosprza,  
Spicemir,  
Petricovia,  
Konarzew,  
Wart,  
Lask,  
Vidavia, and  
Pabianice.    

The Cities and Towns of Siradia.  The chief City of all which is Siradia, situate in a Plain, and fortified with a strong Wall, with a Castle built on the Wart. Subject to the Jurisdiction of this City are the following Cities and Towns.  

Rosprza.  Rosprza, a Timbered Town seated amongst the Marshes.  

Spicimir.  Spicimir, a Town built likewise with Wood  

Petricovia.  Petricovia, a Walled City by no means inconsiderable, situate among Rivulets and Bogs. Once a Year one of the great Tribunals of the Kingdom is kept in the Suburbs of this City in one of the King's Palaces. Not far off there is another Palace of the King's called Byki of a regular Structure, whither his Majesty with his Court sometimes retires for his Pleasure at the time of the meeting of the Tribuaal. There are several other Eminent Edifices built about this City, belonging to Bishops and other Great Men, among which the most famous is the Abbey of Vitrovia, and the Palace of Crusmen, after the Italian manner.  

Konarzew.  Konarzew, a Town of no great Importance.  

Wart.  Wart, a large City built upon a River of the same Name.  

Lask.  Lask, where formerly Johannes Lascus Archbishop of Gnesna, founded a Collegiate Church, and richly endowed it at his own Costs.  
To this Palatinate also belongs the Territory of  

Territory of Vielunia.  Vielunia, which has a Castellan and other Magistrates of its own, and is divided into two parts, viz. Vielunia, and Ostresow. Both which contain some Towns, and a great number of Villages.  

Towns of Vielunia.  The principal of the Towns is Boleslaw, which is defended with a very strong Castle.  
Vielun, environed with a high Wall and a very deep Ditch, having likewise a Castle on the River Prosna. Its Buildings are generally of Brick, whereof there are several very stately.  
Ostresow, a Timber-built City on the Borders of Silesia, situate in a very large Plain, and encompassed almost every way with Woods.  
In this Palatinate the Gentry formerly had a Privilege of sealing their Letters with Red Wax, which was only allowed to the Senators in all the rest of the Kingdom, and which they obtained by recovering the Standard of the Palatinate of Lanschet, after it had been lost to the Prussians, and Teutonick Knights.  

Senators of Siradia.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, 

The Palatin and Castellan of Siradia.  
The Castellans of Rosprza, Spicimir, and Konarzew.    

It's Arms.  The Standard and Arms of this Palatinate are in a Field Vert, a Lion Gules, and Eagle Sables, both counter-couped in the middle.  

Arms of Vielunia.  The Territory of Vielunia has its own Ensigns, which are an Agnus Dei with a Cross Argent in a Field Guiles.  

IV. palatinate.  The fourth Palatinate of Great Poland is that of  
Rava, which is divided into three Districts, viz. The Districts of Rava, Sochaczow, and Gostinin.  
In all which are the several Cities and Towns of 

Rava, Cap.  
Lowitz,  
Volboria,  
Gombin,  
Sochaczow,  
Gostinin,  
Viasdum, and  
Biala.    

Cities and Towns of Rava.  The Capital City of this Palatinate is Rava, situate in a Plain, built for the most part with Wood, and tolerably populous. It has a Castle on a small River of the same Name, in which Prisoners of the best Rank are kept. The fourth part of the Revenue of this Castle goes towards the Payment of the Soldiers. The same Constitution was in Podolia, where former Kings thought fit to establish the best Guard they could against the frequent Incursions of the Tartars. In this City is a very considerable College of Jesuits, much visited by Learned Men.  

Lowitz.  Lowitz, a City much more populous than the former, and about five Miles distant from it: It is famous for being sometimes the Residence of the Archbishop of Gnesna, or Primate of Poland. His Palace there is built among the Marshes, yet nevertheless consists of several fair Piles of Building: The Church also is a beautiful Structure, and enriched with several noble Gifts. It has likewise a great many considerable Monasteries, Abbeys, etc. In this City are divers famous Fairs kept, which the Gentry very much frequent from all Parts.  

Volboria.  Volboria, a Town wherein the Bishop of Cujavia commonly resides, and where he has a Noble Palace. This Place is also very populous.  

Gombin.  Gombin, a large Timber-built Town, situate in a Plain.  

Sochaczow.  Sochaczow, a Place defended with Palisades, and a Castle built on a Rock, which is washed by the River Bsura.  

Gostinin.  Gostinin, a Wooden City built in a Plain among Marshes. This Place is famous for having in it the Prison where Demetrius Suski the Czar of Muscovy, was kept for a long time, and where he at length died.  

Viasdum.  Viasdum, remarkable for its Strength and Beauty of its Castle, and situate not far from Rava on the Lefthand.  

Biala.  Biala, a Town belonging to the Bishop of Chelm.  
This Palatinate contains likewise a Noble Palace of the Archbishop of Gnesna, called Squernevicid.  

Senators of Rava.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, 

The Palatin and Castellan of Rava,  
The Castellans of Sochaczow, and Gostinin.    

It's Arms.  The Standard and Arms of this Palatinate are an Eagle Sables, with the letter R on his Breast in a Field Gules.  

V. Palatinate.  The fifth Palatinate of Great Poland is that of  
Lanschet, divided likewise into three Districts, viz. The Districts of Lanschet, Brezini, and Orlow.  
In all which the most considerable Cities and Towns are, 

Lanschet, Cap.  
Orlow,  
Bresina,  
Piontkum, and  
Vniejovia.    

Cities and Towns of Lanschet.  The Capital Place of this Palatinate is  
Lanschet, a walled City built among the Marshes in a Plain, and surrounded with a very broad and deep Ditch; it has a Castle well fortified on a Rock, and which is washed by the River Bsura. Not far off in a Village called Kosciol there is a very neat Church built with Freestone. There are several famous Fairs kept in this City, where one of the Little Diets is also convened pursuant to the King's Command.  

Orlow.  Orlow, a Timber-built Town seated between several small Lakes and a large muddy River. It is four Miles from Lanschet.  

Bresina.  Bresina, a wooden-built Town, indifferently large, situate among Bogs, and about seven Miles from Lanschet.  

Piatek.  Piontkum or Piatek, built among the Marshes on the Banks of the River Bsura. This Place is famous for well-tasted Beer, which is transported from hence all the Kingdom over. Here is a Monastery erected to the Honour of St. Paul.  

Uniejovia.  Vniejovia, a Town where there is a very famous Castle founded on the Wart. Both these Places belong to the Archbishop of Gnesna.  

Senators of Lanschet.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, 

The Palatin and Castellan of Lanschet.  
The Castellans of Bresina, Brezina, and Biechovia.    

It's Arms.  The Standard and Arms of this Palatinate are an Eagle Argent, and Lion Sables, both counter-couped in the middle, and the latter crowned Or, all in a Field Gules.  
The sixth and seventh Palatinates are comprehended 
Territory of Cujavia.  in Cujavia, whereof the former is  

I. Palatinate of Cujavia.  The Palatinate of Bresty, which is divided into four Districts, viz. The Districts of Bresty, Cruswick, Coval, and Predek.  
In all which are the several Cities and Towns of 

Vladislaw, Cap.  
Bresty,  
Nisavia,  
Radzieow,  
Voisinow,  
Kowalow, and  
Sluzevia.    

Cities and Towns of Uladislaw.  The Capital City of this Palatinate is  
Vladislaw, built among the Marshes near the Vistula. This City is famous for being the Episcopal See of the Bishop of Cujavia, who always crowns the King in case either of the Death, Indisposition or Obstinacy of the Primate: It has a neat Cathedral built after the Gothick manner, and about it stand the prebend's and Canons Houses, with a large Free-School. The Buildings of this City are generally of Brick, with which the Castle is also built on the River Vistula. The Country hereabouts is all Boggy, and there is so great scarcity of Wood, that the Inhabitants suffer very much for want of it.  

Bresty.  Bresty, a City seated in a Plain among Marshes, and defended with a very strong Wall and deep Ditch. The Houses here are for the most part of Brick.  
Upon the same shore with Vladislaw lies 
Nisavia.  Nisavia, being not far off from it; it is a walled Town.  

Radzieow.  Radzieow, a Timber-built Town, situate in an open Country near a very large Lake.  

Koisinow.  Koisinow, a Town defended with a strong Castle.  

Kowalow.  Kowalow, a Timber-built Town, seated amongst the Marshes.  
This Palatinate is very fertile, and abounds with all sorts of Corn, which not only suffices the Inhabitants, but is also transported in vast quantities to Dantzic by several Navigable Rivers, whence it is carried out of the Kingdom.  

II. Palatinate.  The latter and seventh Palatinate of the Province of Great Poland is that of  
Inowlocz, which is divided likewise into three Districts, viz. The Districts of Bydgosty, Bobrounitz, and Inowlocz.  
This Palatinate extends itself from the Lake of Goplo and the City of Cruswick, to the Vistula, and Confines of Pomerania, and has several Cities and Towns, whereof the chief are, 

Cruswick,  
Bydgosty,  
Gnieukow,  
Vratislaw,  
Solec,  
Dibow,  
and Strelce.    

Cities and Towns of Cruswick.  Cruswick, an ancient City next to Gnesna for Antiquity, built upon the Borders of Bresty, with a strong walled Castle near the Lake Goplo, out of which it is said the Rats came that devoured King Popiel II. his Wife and Family by a Divine Judgement. In the Suburbs of this City is the Church of St. Peter, built with Freestone, together with a College of twenty four Canons. Here formerly the Court resided, but was afterwards removed to Cracow.  

Bydgosty.  Bydgosty, a walled Town, in a Plain, washed by the River Barda; by which several things are transported to Vladislaw, being only six Miles distant.  
The other Towns are not to be despised, being generally very populous.  

Senators of Cujavia.  The Senators of Cujavia are, 

The Palatin, and Castellan of Bresty.  
the Palatin, and Castellan of Inowlocz.  
The Castellans of Kowalow, Cruswic, and Bydgosty.    

It's Arms.  The Standard or Arms of Cujavia is in a Field Or, an Eagle Gules, and Lion Sables, counter-couped in the middle.  

II. PROVINCE. Lesser Poland. Its Bounds.  The Second PROVINCE of this Kingdom is  
Upper or Lesser Poland, which is bounded on the North by Masovia and Podlachia; on the West by Lower Poland; on the South by Hungary, and on the East by Russia; and is about fifty Germane Miles as well in length as breadth.  
It is generally divided into three Palatinates, Viz. The Palatinates of Cracovia, Sendomir, and Lublin.  

I. 〈◊〉.  The first Palatinate of Lesser Poland is that of Cracovia, which besides four Districts, contains also three Dutchies and one County.  
The four Districts are 

Cracovia, wherein are two Subdivisions, Viz. The Subdivisions of Xianzen, and Prossovia.  
Lelovia,  
Briecz, and  
Sandecz.    
The three Dutchies are, Oswieczin, Zator, and Severia.  
Which are part of Silesia, and the County is that of Scepuz, which belongs to Hungary, and contains thirteen Towns, the chief of which is Luboul, having a well-fortifyed Castle, wherein constant Guard is kept.  
The chief Cities and Towns of this Palatinate are, 

Cracow 

Bishopric and  
Metropolis.    
Biecz.  
Wounitz.  
Sandecz.  
Lelow.  
Kyaz.  
Oswieczin.  
Zator.  
Severia.  
Proszovice.  
Czenstochova.  
Slaucovia.  
Ilcussia.  
Wicliczka.  
Bocknia, and  
Dobcitia.    

Cities and Towns of Cracow.  Of all which, the Capital of the Province and Metropolis of the Kingdom is,  
Cracow, a famous City, seated in a spacious Plain near the Weissel, by which Merchandizes are transported to Dantzic. It lies nine Polish Miles East of the Frontiers of Silesia, eleven from those of Upper Hungary, twenty three from Sendomir, thirty from Olmitz, thirty five Southeast of Vratislaw, forty from sienna, and about fifty from Buda, and is placed in the 42 Degree of Longitude, and 50 of Latitude.  

Why so called.  It takes its Name from Cracus, Gracus or Gracchus, one of the first Dukes of Poland, though some others will have it to be the Cawdanum of Ptolemy corrupted into Cracow. But let its Name come from whence it will, it is certain that now, considering the stateliness both of its public and private Edifices, and the great Plenty of all manner of Necessaries, it is equal to most Towns of either Germany or Italy.  
If this Character given to it by Starovolscius be disputed, no body can deny but that it is the largest and best built Town in all Poland, being divided into four Quarters, Viz.  

Cracow, properly so called.  
Casimir.  
Stradomia, and  
Cleparia.   
The first Cracow is encompassed with a very high Wall, and flanked with round brick Towers, with a broad deep Ditch, walled likewise, 
The Castle.  and a stately Castle about a Mile in Compass, sounded on a Rock called Vavel, on the Banks of the River Vistula. It is a large stone Building, consisting of two Wings, magnificently raised about a Square-Court, having Galleries, supported with Pillars, and paved with black and white Marble. The King's Apartments, with some others, are adorned with divers curious Paintings and Statues, and the Country round about affords one of the most delightful Prospects in Europe.  

The Cathedral.  Here is the Cathedral of St. Stanislaus, in which a late Bishop of Cracow, Martin Szyscovius, repaired and beautified his Tomb, which before had been all of Silver. This, Sigismond III. and his Son Vladislaus VII. greatly augmented, bestowing on it many Offerings of Gold and Silver Vessels. Sigismond I. also in honour of this Saint, built a Silver Altar near his Tomb, bestowing on it several Golden Crucifixes, and as many Vestments richly embroidered with Gems of all sorts. His Daughter Ann likewise, Wife to King Stephen, built another Silver Altar in the Chapel of the Annunciation, whose Roof is all gilded, and wherein the Kings of Poland are wont to be interred. This Cathedral is principally to be noted for its Chapter and Treasury.  
I pass by several other inestimable Riches which are to be seen here; but I cannot omit one thing, which is, that God is so incessantly praised in this Church, that the Priests are never silent Night nor Day. The Bishop of 
The Bishop and Chapter.  this Diocese is Lord over thirteen Cities, and Prince of the Duchy of Severia. His Chapter, which consists of about thirty Canons, with several other inferior Priests, having a proportionable Revenue. This City was erected into a Metropolitan See upon the first Planting of the Christian Religion in Poland by Miecislaus I. but within a hundred Years after it degenerated into a Bishopric under the Archbishop of Gnesna, in regard that Lampert Zula could not be persuaded to receive his Pall from the See of Rome; yet upon submission he was afterwards restored to that Dignity, but which lasted only for his Life, his Successors having been ever since only Bishops.  

Other Churches.  There are about fifty other Parish-Churches, as well in the Castle as the Town: whereof the most celebrated is that of the Virgin Mary in the Circle of Cracow, which is governed by an Arch-Presbyter, and fronts ten large Streets, having moreover on all sides four Rows of magnificent Structures.  

The University.  A University was first begun here by Casimir the Great, and finished not till the Year 1401, by Vladislaus Jagello, conformable to the last Will and Testament of his Queen Hedwigis, and had its Privileges soon after confirmed by Pope Vrban VI However the Scholars forsook it in 1549, by reason that the Magistrates had refused to do Justice on the Servants of Andrew Czarnkowski, who in a Quarrel had slain a great Number of them. They afterwards dispersed themselves into several Parts of Germany, and becoming Protestants, spread the Lutheran Religion throughout Poland, and gained a great Number of Proselytes. Yet notwithstanding all this, at last they returned to the Obedience of the See of Rome.  
In this University are taught all sorts of Learning, and which is now as great an Ornament to the Polish Kingdom, as Athens was formerly to Greece. It contains in all eleven 
Its Colleges.  Colleges, which are,  

The Great College, which is only for Philosophers.  
The Law-College, where the Professors of that Art cohabit and read Lectures.  
The Physick-College, which the Physicians do not live in, because they are generally married, and have Families.  
The College of Dlugossus for young Students in the Law.  
The College of the Poor, for such as we call King's-Scholars here.  
The College of Nascovius for other Sciences.  
The College of Jerusalem or of Olesnicius.  
The College of Zisinius, newly erected.  
The College of Staringilius.  
The College of Smiescovicius, and  
The College for Human Learning.   
To these may be added fourteen Grammar-Schools, scattered throughout the City; in which also sometimes University-Learning is taught.  

Vicechancellor.  All these Colleges and Schools are governed by a Rector or Vicechancellor, who takes care that Orders be duly observed, and Functions rightly administered; which is so great Encouragement, that there is scarce any Ecclesiastical or Political Dignity in the Kingdom but is filled by Persons that have been educated in this University.  

Monasteries.  In the Monasteries also are taught both Philosophy and Divinity, but more especially in that of the Dominicans of the Trinity, where there are daily Lectures kept, and several kinds of Moral Learning also promoted.  

Mendicants.  There are likewise several sorts of Mendicant Friars in this City, who upon solemn Feasts, according to the ancient Custom, go in Procession, clothed in divers Colours, such as 

Mendicants of the Rosary in Red.  
Mendicants of Mercy in Green.  
Mendicants of the Mantle in Blue.  
Mendicants of the Passion in Black.  
Mendicants of the Body of Christ in White.  
Mendicants of Saint Sophia in Purple.  
Mendicants of Saint Ann in Ash-colour.  
Mendicants of Saint Monica in Crimson.    

Houses of this City.  The Houses of this City are for the most part of Freestone, and four or five Stories high, but covered on the Top only with Board's instead of Slate or Tiles.  
The Quarter of Casimir is joined to the rest by a fair Timber Bridg, erected over the River Rudawka, a Branch of the Weissel, whilst the other two, Stradomia and Cleparia, are watered by the Weissel, and lie between Cracow and the aforesaid Bridg.  

Biecz.  Biecz, in the Territory of the same Name, is a walled City in a Plain, watered by the River Rapa, a Branch of the Vistula, out of the Froth of which they make Sulphur. It is about fifteen Polish Miles from Cracow, and five from Sandecz.  

Wounitz.  Wounitz or Woynicz, a Timber-built Town on the River Dunaiecz, from Cracow about nine Miles.  

Sandecz.  Sandecz, a walled Town, in a very pleasant Plain, in the Territory of the same Name, washed by the River Dunaiecx, and about eleven Miles from Cracow. It has a Collegiute Church and several Monasteries, etc. Its Inhabitants are Active and Industrious.  

Lelow.  Lelow, in the Territory of Lelovia, of which it is the Capital, environed with an old Wall, and a strong Castle built upon a Hill, wherein is a Palace and several Gardens after the Italian manner. It is washed by the River Biala, and about eleven Miles from Cracow.  

Kyaz.  Kyaz, a wooden-built Town about seven Miles from Cracow.  

Osvieczin.  Osvieczin, Capital of the Duchy of the same Name, a Timber-built City in a Plain among the Marshes, with a wooden Castle plastered only with Clay. It is about seven Miles from Cracow.  

Zator.  Zator, Capital of that Duchy, built with Wood in a Plain near the River Vistula, and about five Miles from Cracow.  

Severia.  Severia, Capital of the large Duchy of the same Name. It has a very strong Castle in an Island in the middle of a very broad Lake, and another at Lipovecia upon a high Rock, famous for being the Prison of the insolent Clergy of the Diocese of Cracow; for that Bishop being Temporal Prince of this Duchy, which contains some Towns, and Lipovecia among the rest near Cracow, it is most convenient for him to imprison Dclinquents there.  

Czentochova.  Czentochova, a Town famous for good Beer, which is not only fetched from all Parts of Poland, but also from the neighbouring Provinces of Germany. Without this Place is a very famous Monastery, situate upon a Hill, where is a Picture of the Virgin Mary, said to be painted by Saint Luke, and to which Pilgrims from all Parts come to make their Offerings.  
We went upon our Journey from Silesia to Cracow to see this Convent, where they showed us vast Quantities of Gold and Silver Plate, of rich Ornaments for Altars and Habits, enriched with all sorts of Jewels, particularly with Pearls; for the great Families in Poland think it a mighty Honour for their Posterity to have given any thing of value to this Place, to be a Monument of their Devotion as well as Liberality. The Monks told us of a great many Miracles that were wrought here, with which they worked such Effects upon the Minds of those credulous People, that they scruple not to impoverish themselves to enrich this Place. Not only the Church is very rich, but likewise the Monks are Masters of a great Territory round about it, and they maintain a Garrison of 300 Men upon their own Charges, whom I have observed to be in a better Condition than any other Soldiers of the Kingdom. I can compare this Place to none more properly than Loretto in Italy, both for Wealth and Bigotry.  

Slaucovia.  Slaucovia, in the same Duchy, famous for Silver Mines, which bring great Profit to this Bishop.  

Ilcussia.  Near to this City lies Ilcussia, a Royal Town, abounding also with Silver and Lead. Its Citizens are very Luxurious, but notwithstanding no less Devout. This Town is encompassed with a Wall, and its Houses are for the greatest part of Brick. The Bread here is extraordinary, and Beef not to be equalled in Cracow, whence it is scarce distant above five Miles▪  
On the Eastern side of the City of Cracow lies Velisca or Wieliczka, not above two or 
Wieliczka.  three Miles from thence; a Town abounding with Crystal Salt, but which is not so transparent as that of  

Bochnia.  Bochnia, about five Miles from Cracow, where Salt is dug out in great Masses, and exceeding clear.  

Dobcitia.  Next towards Hungary lies Dobcitia, a strong Town with a Castle.  

Proszovice.  To the North of Cracow lies Proszovice, a Timber-built Town, seated in a Plain, where there is a Palace of the King's raised on the Banks of the River Sozeniava, about four Miles from Cracow, in which is kept a Provincial Diet.  
There are several other Cities and Towns belonging to Noblemen, as likewise a great Number of Castles, Palaces, Religious Houses, etc. of no ordinary Structure in this Palatinate: but all which, for brevity's sake, I have omitted.  

Mines of Poland.  This Palatinate excels all the rest in Mines, except that of Sendomir only. Silver and Lead are found about Ilcussia, Slaucovia, Severia, and Novogora; and Copper and Gold at Novotargus, and in the Mountains about Sandecz; Mineral Salt, like to huge Masses of Stone, at Bochna and Wieliczka; Marble of all Colours at Selecia, belonging to the barefooted Friars; Nitre at Wislicz; Vitriol at Becia; Pit-coal at Tencinum; Iron-Mine and Glass-houses at Obstinia, as likewise at several other Places in this Kingdom.  
But what I shall give your Lordship a more particular Account of, will be of Salt and Glass, which I have taken from my Observation in the Country. That of Salt properly comes in here.  

Account of Salt Mines.  You go down into the Salt Mines near Cracow by four or five pair of wooden Stairs, by which you go from one into the other. The Horses also descend the same way. The whole Depth of this Mine is thought to be near three hundred Geometrical Paces. Below you may meet with a thousand Turnings and Windings, and many Alleys and Streets like to a Town; all which the Proprietor and hereditary Governor, Monsieur Morstin Covalski, told me would require above a Week's time to go over. In some Places there is a great deal of fresh Water in these Mines which the Miners drink, but in most it is salt, of which they make Salt by Evaporation; but still the best sort is that which is natural, without Preparation. Sometimes there are such fierce Winds in these Mines, that nothing almost can withstand them; and generally there is so much Cold, that it is hardly to be endured. Whilst it reins, the Salt is commonly insipid. They have Engines to crane up the Water that it may not any ways incommode the Miners. The Revenue of this Mine amounts to about eight hundred thousand Timfs or Polish Florins annually, which makes about 400000 French Livres, whereof 50000 go to the King, 10000 to the Queen, and some thousands more to the Officers of the Crown, and the Miners and other Labourers; yet over and above all this, the Proprietor is obliged to make a yearly Present to all the Cities and Towns of Poland, and more particularly to their Starostas. A Cobbler about the Year 1548, first found out this Mine, who digging a Well near this Place, perceived a Fountain with a thin Wall of Salt in the middle of it; which breaking, and not knowing what to make of, he discovered to the Owners of the Land, who were then the Family of Morstin; who digging deeper, by reason they did not meet with much Salt near the Surface, found it in so great Quantity, that they have not been able to exhaust it during the Space of 150 Years. The Miners say, that the Lumps of Salt weigh a great deal less in the Mine than when taken out, which I have not seen confirmed. There are four sorts of Salt in the Mine, whereof one is extreme hard and rocky, like Crystal. Another less hard, and clearer. A third brittle and softer, as also white and pure. All these three sorts are brackish, when the fourth only is somewhat fresher. In these Mines you shall have on one side a stream of salt Water, and on the other one of fresh. There are some places in these Mines where you can't work, because you dare not carry a Candle for fear of setting the Vapours on fire, which are always Nitrous, and easily susceptible of Flame.  

Manna found.  In this Palatinate, and in some others, there is a particular sort of Manna, which they gather in the Months of May and June by sweeping it off the Grass with Sives, together with the Dew. They eat this Manna, and make several sorts of Dishes with it for their Tables. More of this I shall take occasion to speak of hereafter.  

Senators of  The Senators of this Palatinate are, 


Cracovia.  The Bishop Castellan, and Palatin of Cracow.  
The Castellans of 

Wounitz.  
Oswieczin.  
Sandecz, and  
Biecz.      

The Castellans' Power.  The Castellan of Cracow precedes the Palatin for Reasons given before in the Life of Boleslaus III. otherwise called Krivoustus. This Palatin's Jurisdiction is very large, and extends several ways, not only over the Citizens and Countrymen, but also the Nobility or Gentry of his Palatinate.  

Mayor of Cracow.  Next is the Praetor or Mayor of Cracow, which Office, Guagnini says, has been discontinued ever since a Praetor, in the time of Vladislaus, betrayed that City to Boleslaus Duke of Oppelin; for which he, together with his Accomplices, afterwards underwent deserved Punishment, and the Praetorship devolved to the King, who now thinks fit to name a Mayor himself, who, in my time, was a Scotchman.  

Government of the Castle.  The Castle of Cracow is principally under the Command of the Palatin, who has ten Deputies or Burgraves, who, both in time of Peace and War, cause a strict Guard to be kept therein both Night and Day. These Burgraves, must always be chosen out of the Gentry. Here the Crown and other Regalia are kept.  

Arms of this Palatinate.  The Standard or Arms of this Palatinate are an Eagle expanded Argent, crowned Or in a Field Gules, with a Baton cross its Wings of the Second.  

Of Sandecz.  The District of Sandecz has a peculiar Ensign, which is Party per Pale, Argent and Azure.  

Of the Duchy of Oswieczin.  The Duchy of Oswieczin has for Arms in a Field Gules, an Eagle expanded Sables, bearing an O in its Breast.  

Of that of Zator.  The Duchy of Zator has also a peculiar Scucheon, which is an Eagle expansed Azure, with a Z in its Breast.  

II. Palatinate.  The Second Palatinate of Lesser Poland is that of  
Sendomir, which is divided into eight Districts, Viz. The Districts of 

Sendomir.  
Radom.  
Stenziecz.  
Corzin.  
Wislicz.  
Chencin.  
Opoczno, and  
Pilzno.    
In all which are the Cities and Towns of 

Sendomir, Cap.  
Opatovia or Opoczno.  
Viazden.  
Radom.  
Jedbinsk.  
Solecia.  
Ilza.  
Cunovia.  
●●ozontin.  
Kielcz.  
Malogost, Cast.  
Sulovia.  
Drevicz.  
Inowlodz.  
Sydlovecz.  
Janovecz.  
Slupe●●z.  
Lagovia.  
Racovia.  
Corzin.  
Wislicz.  
Pilzno.  
Chencin.  
Poloviec.  
Zawicost.  
Zarnow.  
Zaclicin.  
Lezaisk.  
Osiec.  
Stasow.  
Polanecz.  
Stobnicz.  
Olesnicz.  
Ossolin.  
Paczanovia.  
Sendisow.  
Zarnovec.  
Sokolow.  
Praeclavia, and  
Zaclycin.    

Cities and Towns of Sendomir.  The chief City of this Palatinate is  
Sendomir, a very pleasant City, seated on a Bank or small Hill of the River Vistula, enjoying a very delightful Prospect, and being much frequented by the Gentry on occasion of several Assizes of Justice held there by the Magistrates of this Palatinate. It lies near the Confluence of the San with the Weissel, and is twenty eight Polish Miles East from Cracow, and thirty-two South from Warsaw. It is fortified with strong Walls, and a considerable Castle built to the South, and washed by the Vistula, in which the Palatin resides, with some other regular Works raised by Casimir the Great. Among the Public Buildings, the Monastery of Dominican Friars, founded by Ivo, formerly Archbishop of Cracow, is most remarkable. A Synod was convened here against the Heresy of Stancarus in the Year 1570; and another, wherein the Confession of Ausburg, Bohemia, and Switzerland, were reproved. This Town was sacked by the Tartars in the Year 1240, and taken by the Swedes in 1655, but restored to the Poles the Year following.  

Opatovia.  Opatovia, four Miles from Sendomir, situate in a very pleasant Country, and washed by the River Pilcza. It has several famous Religious Edifices.  

Viazden.  Viazden, a new-built Town, much frequented, and well fortified.  

Radom.  Radom, Capital of that District, built in a Plain, and environed with a strong Wall and other Fortifications.  

Jedlinsk.  Jedlinsk, famous for a School, and a well-built Church.  

Solecia.  Solecia, situate upon the Vistula, and celebrated for its Castle; repaired and beautified by its ancient Duke Christopher Zboravius.  

Ilza.  Ilza, a neat Town, built with Brick, and belonging to the Bishop of Cracow. It is famous for Earthen Ware, with which it furnishes all Poland. It has a Castle adjoining, consisting for the most part of old Buildings; yet the Bishop's Palace is all new, and very stately.  

Cunovia.  To this Town belongs Cunovia, or Kunow, celebrated for all sorts of Marble, and that of all Colours.  
Iron is exceeding plentiful in this Palatinate, 
Bozentin.  but more especially at Bozentin, the Bishop of Cracow's City and Residence. This is a very beautiful Place, well fortified, in which the aforesaid Bishop has a very neat Palace with exceeding delightful Gardens. This City is seated near the bottom of the Bald Mountain, by much the highest in Poland.  

Kielcz.  Towards the West lies Kielcz, famous for Mines of Copper, and Lapis-Lazuli. These two belong to the Bishop of Cracow, who has here a very fair Collegiate Church and Episcopal See.  

Chencin.  Chencin, about three Miles from Kielcz, abounding likewise with Silver, Led, and divers kinds of Marble. This Place belongs to the King. Here is a Castle seated on a Rock, where Justice is distributed to the District of the same Name.  

Malogost.  Malogost, or as some will have it, Malogsch, noted for being a Castellany. It is a wooden-built Town, and has nothing in it very remarkable.  

Sulovia.  Sulovia, a Town of some Note, by having Command over several neighbouring Places.  

Drevicz, and Inowlodz.  Drevicz and Inowlodz, two Towns remarkable for the superb Ruin of two old Castles.  

Sydlovecz.  Sydlovecz, the Name of a County formerly belonging to the Dukes of the Family of Radzivil, abounding with Iron Mines, good store of Fish, and vast Quantities of Wood It's chief Town is encompassed with an old Wall, and a Castle pretty well fortified. Nevertheless, it is not to be despised, having in it a great many fair Edifices.  

Stenzicz.  Stenzicz, Capital of the District of the same Name, and adorned with a very stately Monastery of Benedictin Monks.  

Janovecz.  A little higher lies Janovecz, with a Castle on the other side of the River.  

Slupecz.  Slupecz, belonging to the Abbey of the Holy Cross, on the Top of the Bald Mountain, this Town being situate at the Bottom of it.  

Lagovia.  Lagovia, a City belonging to the Bishop of Cujavia, famous for making Earthen Ware.  

Racovia.  Racovia, a Nest of the Socinians, formerly a City indifferently populous, with a considerable Academy to instruct Youth: but which being now prohibited by a Public Edict, the Catholic Religion is restored, but not therewithal the Grandeur of the Place.  

Corzin.  Corzin, Capital of the District of the same Name, a new Timber-built Town with a Castle, seated near the River Vislock, and surrounded every way with Marshes.  

Wislicz.  Wislicz, a Town built with Wood, and watered by the River Nida. It has a strong Wall, and is moreover situate upon a Rock in the midst of a boggy Country. Here is to be seen a Cathedral Church, built with square Stone, with a very beautiful Close for the Habitations of the Canons. The Country round about this Place abounds with all kind of Serpents and Infects; but as the Inhabitants tell you, being interdicted by the See of Rome, they have no power to do you any harm, and being transported out of that Place they immediately die. This City is a Castellany.  

Pilzno.  Pilzno, a Timber-Town built on the River Wislock.  

Poloviec.  Poloviec, a Timber-built Town lying among the Hills. This is a Castellany.  

Zawichost.  Zawichost, a Wooden City on the River Vistula, with a double walled Castle on the other side: This is likewise a Castellany.  

Zarnow.  Zarnow, a Town built with Wood, in which there is nothing remarkable, but that it is a Castellany.  

Zaclicin.  Zaclicin, famous for a very considerable Market.  

Lezaisk.  Lezaisk, a Town celebrated for a Monastery, wherein they pretend are miraculously kept several Relics, and which draw great Crowds of Pilgrims from all Parts.  

Senators of Sendomir.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, 

The Palatin and Castellan of Sendomir.  
The Castellans of 

Wislicz,  
Radom,  
Zawichost,  
Zarnow,  
Malogosch,  
Poloviec, and  
Sechow.      

It's Arms.  The Standard and Arms of this Palatinate are Party per Pale Argent and Azure, in the first three Bars Gules, and in the second three Stars Sables, two and one.  

III. Palatinate.  The third Palatinate of Poland, is Lublin, joined also by the Territory of Lucovia, which contains near two thousand gentlemen's Houses. This Palatinate, with both the others, is within the Diocese of Cracow, which comprehends a thousand and eighteen Churches, thirteen whereof are Collegiate.  
In this Palatinate are the several Cities and Towns of  

Lublin, Cap.  
Casimir,  
Czemiernikow,  
Vrzendow,  
Lulow,  
Parkow,  
Opolia,  
Curovia,  
Crasnicz,  
Levartovia,  
and Lenczna.   

Cities and Towns of Lublin.  Whereof the Capital City is  
Lublin, situate in the 45 th' degree of Longitude, and 51 of Latitude, and which lies five Miles from the Confines of Red Russia, twelve West of Chelm, fourteen from Sendomir, twenty four South of Warsaw, and thirty six North-East of Cracow. It is seated at the foot of a Hill, watered by the River Bystricza, and defended by a high Wall, a broad Ditch, and a huge strong Castle, which owes its Foundation to the Russians. This City is not very large, but nevertheless exceeding healthy, and well built, and much frequented by the Turkish, Armenian, Muscovitish and Germane Merchants, especially at the time of the four famous Fairs that are annually kept there. It is encompassed every way almost by Marshes, and was walled round by Casimir the Great. The Jews generally inhabit the Suburbs, where they have a Synagogue. The principal Church here was erected by Lescus Niger on occasion of a signal Victory he gained over the Lithuanians near this place. This Church he dedicated to St. Michael, who, 'tis said, had promised him good Success the Night before he fought. There are several other well-built Churches in this City, as likewise divers magnificent Monasteries, the chiefest of which was founded by Vladislaus Jagello. This City is noted for two Courts of Justice, or great Tribunals for all Poland, which occasions a great Concourse of the Gentry to this Place.  

Casimir.  Casimir, a very fair Wooden City built among Rocks near the Vistula, whose overflowing sometimes lays the Houses above half under Water. It is about seven Miles from Lublin.  

Czemiernikow.  Czemiernikow, famous for a very beautiful Palace, formerly built by the prudent and illustrious Henry Firleius Archbishop of Gnesna, and adorned with several delightful Gardens.  

Urzendow  Vrzendow, a large Timber-built Town, situate on a Lake, and about seven Miles from Lublin.  

Lulow.  Lulow, Capital of the Territory of Leucovia, a City built with Wood in a Plain, partly defended by a Bog, and partly by Palisadoes: It is about fourteen Miles from Lublin, and has a very considerable Jurisdiction.  

Parkow.  Parkow, a Wood-built Town, seated in a Plain near a very large Lake, and about nine Miles from Lublin.  

Senators of Lublin.  This Palatinate sends only two Senators, viz. The Palatin and Castellan of Lublin.  

It's Arms.  It's Standard or Arms is a Stag Passant, Argent, Collard Or, in a Field Gules.  

III. PROVINCE.  The third PROVINCE of Poland is  
Prussia, which depends only in part on the Jurisdiction of the Crown of Poland; for it has its peculiar Laws, Customs and Courts of Justice. It is a Country of great Extent, and everywhere watered with commodious Rivers, and moreover towards the Baltic enriched with many convenient Ports and Havens. In length it is about sixty Polish Miles, and near fifty in breadth, and is bounded on 
Its Bounds.  the West by Pomerania, on the South by Cujavia and Masovia, on the East by Lithuania and Samogitia, and on the North by the Baltic Sea.  

Its Products.  This Province, though it has no great store of Mines, yet it abounds with all sorts of Cattle, wild Beasts, Fish and Fruit, and enjoys a very temperate Climate. The Merchandizes which it has from Poland, Russia and Lithuania, it transports in great quantities, and likewise imports whatever either Europe or the Indies afford, and that chiefly by way of Exchange. Hence it comes to pass that its Inhabitants are generally richer, and live better than in any of the other Provinces of Poland.  
In this Province they make Glass of certain Wood-Ashes, or of the largest sort of Pebbles. These they boil for twelve hours before they will vitrify. When they would have their Glass clearer than ordinary, they mix a certain Earth with the Ashes of the Colour and Hardness of Tartre, which renders the Glass of different Colours, according to the quantity of this Earth mixed with it. Here may be remarked, that if Salt be mixed with Glass, it becomes much easier to be blown by the Artificer.  

Its Rivers.  The principal Rivers of this Province are, 

The Weissel, or Vistula.  
The Niemen,  
The Nogat,  
The Elbing,  
The Wesser,  
The Passar,  
The Alla,  
The Pregel,  
The Ossa,  
The Drebnicz,  
The Lica, and  
The Lavia.    

Its Lakes.  Together with a great many Lakes replenished with all sorts of Fish, the chief of which are,  
1. Habus, near fifteen Miles long, and about two in breadth, disjoined from the Sea only by the Isthmus Neringa, or rather a small Neck of Land; for I find it has Communication with the Sea, where the Inhabitants gather Amber in small Nets of a Conic Figure, with a large Mouth, and narrow at the bottom. This Net they tie to a long Pole, and set out in the Sea when the Waves begin to come in, wherewith they take pieces sometimes as big as one's Fist. This Amber is thought to be formed by the great number of Fir-Trees that grow along this Lake, which dropping great quantities of Resina, or Turpentine, into it, is carried into the Baltic Sea, where being laboured by the Waves it is congealed into Amber, wherein are found Flies and other Infects. But I am since better informed, that Amber is a Mineral Juice that runs into the Sea; which at first taking is soft, but quickly hardens in the Air. It is also to be got all along the Sea-coast in this Province.  
2. Curona, another Lake something larger than the former in Ducal Prussia.  
Prussia is generally divided into  
Regal and Ducal.  
This Province was at first subject to certain Sovereign Dukes, until the Knights of the Teutonick Order got possession of it in the XIII th' Century after a tedious War. In the Year 1454, the Western Part was subdued by the Poles; and in 1520, Albert Marquis of Brandenburg, the 34 th' and last Master of that Order, having shaken off the Polish Yoke, obtained the Eastern Part under the Title of a Duchy; so that ever since it has been divided as abovesaid. The same Albert embraced Lutheranism, persuaded most of the Knights to marry, and introduced the Reformed Religion into this Country, whereof the ancient Inhabitants are long since extirpated; and the present Prussians are a mixed People sprung from the several Colonies of the Swedes, Poles, Germans, and other Neighbouring Nations.  

Royal Prussia.  Regal or Royal Prussia is divided into four Palatinates, viz. The Palatinate of Pomerania, Culm, Marienburg, and Varmia.  

I. Palatinate.  The first Palatinate, Pomerania, being not in possession of the Poles, requires no Description.  

II. Palatinate.  The second Palatinate of Royal Prussia is that of Culm (to which also the Territory of Michalovia, lying to the South, belongs) and has in it these Cities and Towns, viz. 

Culm 

Bish. &  
Cap.    
Thorn,  
Graudentz,  
Colmensee,  
Brodnicz,  
Radin,  
Golubia,  
Rogozna,  
Brathian,  
Lubavia,  
and Kopriunicza.    

Cities and Towns of Culm.  Of all which the chief City is  
Culm, an ancient and famous Place built on a Hill, the foot whereof is watered by the River Vistula. It lies about four Germane Miles from Thorn to the South, and fifteen from Dantzic to the North. It was built by the Knights of the Teutonic Order in the Year 1223, who likewise fortified it against the Eruptions of the Heathen Prussians; and Herman Desalza, Master of that Order, gave Laws and Constitutions for its Government. This City suffered much Damage during the Swedish Invasion, and is now very thin of Inhabitants; insomuch that the Episcopal See, subject to the Archbishop of Gnesna, has been for some time removed to the neighbouring Town of Colmensee. It has in it very fair Churches, enriched with many valuable Ornaments and precious Offerings.  

Thorn.  Thorn, seated upon the Bank of the Vistula, by which it is divided into two parts: It lies four Polish Miles from Culm to the South, thirteen from Marienburg, twenty two from Dantzic, fifteen from Lanschet, and twenty nine from Warsaw. It was heretofore an Imperial and Free City, but was afterwards exempted from the Jurisdiction of the Empire, and as yet enjoys very many Privileges. It's Name seems to have been taken from the Germane word Thor, signifying a Gate, because built by the Teutonick Order as it were for a Gate to let Forces into Prussia whenever occasion served: Whence its Arms are supposed 
It's Arms.  to have been taken, being a Castle and Gate half open. This City does not stand in the same place where the old one did, that having been seated a Mile Westward from hence, where are now to be seen the Ruins of an ancient Castle, and some other Monuments. However this City at present is the fairest and best built of any in Royal Prussia, the Streets being much broader, and Houses more stately than at Dantzic. It was very much beautisied by one of its Burgermasters Henry Stwband in the Year 1609, who built a small University here, and endowed it with a considerable Revenue. He likewise founded an Hospital, and a Public Library, where two of Cicero's Epistles are preserved written upon Tables of Wax, and a Townhouse built in the middle of the Marketplace. The Inhabitants revolted from the Knights of the Teutonick Order in the Year 1454, and put themselves under the Protection of Poland. 
Native Town of Copernicus.  In this City the famous Astronomer Nicholas Copernicus was born; and John Albert King of Poland died here in the Year 1501. It was taken by the Swedes in the Year 1655, and regained by the Poles in 1658. Afterwards the Swedes recovered it, and the Poles surprised and retook it in 1665.  

Graudentz.  Graudentz, only famous for a Castle and very strong Wall.  

Colmensee.  Colmensee, or Culmensee▪ the Episcopal Seat of the Bishop of Culm, translated hither from Culm. It is distant nine Miles from Thorn to the North, nineteen from Graudentz, and twelve from Culm to the Southeast.  

Territory of Michalovia.  The Territory of Michalovia is a straight Neck of Land between the Rivers Brodna and Drebnicz, which was the occasion of bloody Wars between the Teutonick Knights and Poles: The chief Town is Michalovia, which, with some others that are in this Territory, deserves no Description.  

III. Palatinate.  The third Palatinate of Royal Prussia is that of  
Marienburg, in which are these Cities and Towns, viz 

Marienburg, Cap.  
Elbing,  
Stuma,  
Mewa,  
Gniew,  
Now,  
Stargardie, and  
Ornet.    

Cities and Towns of Marienburg.  Of all which the chief City is  
Marienburg, seated upon the Nogat, a Branch of the Vistula, about six Miles from Dantzic: It is defended by strong Walls and high Towers, together with a very large Castle, wherein the better sort of Prisoners in time of War are kept. This City receives no small Benefit from the Neighbourhood of the Island Zulava, which is a very rich spot of Earth. This Island is divided into two parts, viz. 

1. The Greater, which lies next Marienburg, and  
2. The Lesser, next to Dantzic, to whose Inhabitants at present belongs    

Elbing.  Elbing, a well fortified and trading Town, in which the English they say had formerly a Consul. Here Albert, first Duke of Prussia, founded an Academy in the Year 1542. but of no great moment.  
The other Towns I find no Description of.  

IV. Palatinate.  The fourth Palatinate of Royal Prussia is  
The Bishopric of Varmia, whose Gentry are exempt from all Regal Jurisdiction, being wholly governed by the Laws and Customs of Prussia, and by the Bishop who is a Temporal Prince: It has in it these Cities and Towns; 

Heilsberg, Cap.  
Fraumberg,  
Brunsberg,  
Gutestadt,  
Allestein,  
Resla,  
Vormitz,  
Messac,  
Vatemberg,  
Seberg, etc.    

Cities and Towns of  Of all which the chief City is  

Heilsberg.  Heilsberg, famous for being the Residence of the Bishop, and defended with strong Walls and other suitable Fortifications.  

Fraumberg.  Fraumberg, celebrated for the Cathedral of the Bishopric of Varmia there built, of which the famous Astronomer Copernicus was Canon.  

Brunsberg.  Brunsberg, situate on the River Passar, so much frequented, and so worthily esteemed, that it is reckoned among the chief Towns of Prussia. It has a College of Jesuits built by Cardinal Hosius.  
There are several other Cities and Towns of which I find no Description, and therefore have omitted them.  

Ducal Prussia.  Ducal Prussia, now entirely belonging to the Elector of Brandenburg, has these Towns in it, viz. 

Koningsberg, Cap.  
Pilaw,  
Memel,  
Welaw,  
Tilsa,  
Marienwerder, etc.   To the number of 60.  

Town of Koningsberg.  The Metropolis Koningsberg is a Market Town divided into three parts, and defended with a very considerable Castle: It lies in the 43 d degree of Longitude, and 54 of Latitude, and has a small Academy founded by Albert Great Master of the Teutonick Order, and first Duke of this Country in the Year 1544. The Citizens are generally Lutherans, as are likewise most part of this Country, which occasioned Sigismond III. when he received Homage of this Duke in the Year 1621., to impose a Law, that the Catholics should have free Exercise for their Religion there.  

Senators of Prussia.  The Senators of Prussia are, 

The Bishop of Varmia, who is the Chief.  
The Bishop Palatin, and Castellan of Culm.  
The Palatins of Marienburg, and Pomerania.  
The Castellans of Elbing, and Dantzic.    
There are other Officers which belong to the Senate or Great Council of Prussia, which they hold among themselves, except when they are commanded to the Grand Diet of the Kingdom. These are The Vice-Chamberlains of 

Culm,  
Marienburg,  
Pomerania,  
Thorn,  
Elbing, and  
Dantzic.    
Besides these several Magistrates, the Prussians have also a Treasurer, Burgraves of Castles, Sword-Bearers, Judges, and Sheriffs; but none of all these have any Place in the Council.  
The Palatins of Prussia have far greater Power than those in any other Province of Poland.  

It's Arms.  The Arms or Standard of Prussia are an Eagle expansed, Sables, with a Sword evaginated, and held by a dexter Hand Argent: Both in a Field Or.  

IV. PROVINCE.  The Fourth PROVINCE of this Kingdom is  

Red-Russia.  Red- Russia, the other being White- Russia, and belonging to Lithuania. This Province 
It's Extent.  extends itself from the Frontiers of Lithuania, as far as the Mouth of the Nieper in the Black Sea; which River separates it from Moscovy to the East, as likewise do the Carpathian Mountains from Hungary to the South-West. It is extremely fruitful in Corn, Beasts of all kinds, Fish, and Honey. In this Province there are several Trees daily found along the Shore of the River San, which are very hard, and black as Ebony. The Country People say they have lain there ever since the Deluge, but it is probable they might have been washed down by the Course of the River a great while since. It is bounded on the South by Hungary, Moldavia, and Bessarabia; on the East by the Scythian Deserts, and especially Moscovy; on the North by Russia Alba, separated by the Rivers Stiro and Pripecz; and on the West by Lesser Poland, from which it is divided by the Rivers Vislocz and Vepre.  
This Province comprehends seven Palatinates, Viz. The Palatinates of 

Russia,  
Podolia,  
Braslaw,  
Kiovia,  
Volhynia,  
Belsko, and  
Chelm.    

I. Palatinate.  The first Palatinate of this Province is that of  
Russia, which is divided into four Districts, which are, The Districts of 

Leopol,  
Premislaw,  
Halicz, and  
Sanoch.    

I. District.  The first of these Districts has in it these remarkable Cities and Towns, Viz. 

Leopol 

Archbish.  
Cap.    
Grodeck,  
Javorisvia,  
Zolkiew,  
Gliniani,  
Zloczow, and  
Komarna.    

Cities and Towns of  Of all which, the chief City is  

Leopol.  Leopol, called Lwow or Luwow by the Polanders, and Lemberg or Russe-Lemberg by the Germans. It is the Metropolis of this Palatinate, and lies in the 46 Degree of Longitude, and 49 of Latitude. It is built amongst the Hills, on the Banks of the River Peltaw, fifteen Polish Miles from Mount Carpathus to the South, and as many from Premislaw to the West, thirty from Caminiec, forty from Cracow, and about fifty from Warsaw to the Southeast. This City is large and well fortified, having two Castles, one within the Walls, and one without on a rising Ground, which commands the Town; both which, together with the City, were founded by Leo (or, as they call him, Loo) Duke of Russia, about the Year 1289. The Archbishop of Leopol is both Spiritual and Temporal Lord of his Diocese. His See was translated hither from Halicz in 1361, by Order of King Casimir. Here also reside an Armenian Archbishop, and a Russian Bishop depending on the Patriarch of Constantinople, with several Churches belonging to each Bishopric. The Armenian roman-catholics have inhabited here time out of mind, and are governed wholly by their own Prelate. They enjoy very great Privileges on account of the considerable Commerce they maintain with the Persians and other Eastern People. This City is famous for several 
Several times besieged.  Sieges it has sustained. As first, it was besieged by the Cosacks and Tartars with a dreadful Army. Secondly, by the Moscovites and Cosacks in the Year 1648, with an Army of above 120 thousand Men, without being able to take it in two Months and a half; but the last time the Turks became almost Masters of it in the Year 1672, yet by an Agreement obliged themselves to quit it. This happened under the Reign of King Michael Wiesnowiski, who died here in the Year 1673. This City gives great Encouragement to Learned Men, who are very civilly received by their Academy, which is supplied with Professors from that of Cracow. Here is kept a very famous Winter-Fair, whither the Hungarian, Moldavian, and, in time of Peace, Turkish Merchants resort in great Numbers. Amongst other Rivers, it has Roxolania, wherein Barbels are taken of a great Size. It has likewise an innumerable Company of Fishponds all about it, replenished with several sorts of very fat Fish, which are salted up in great Numbers, and transported all over Poland. The Churches here are generally very fair and well-built, and abound with all kinds of costly Ornaments.  

Grodeck.  Grodeck, a palisadoed City, with a Castle built in a Plain, and surrounded with Bogs. It lies about four Miles from Leopol.  

Javorisvia.  Javorisvia, famous for a natural Bath arising in the next adjoining Village of Sclovia. This alone suffices to disperse several stubborn Distempers, as Sixtus Leo, a Physician of great Experience, testifies in his Treatise concerning it.  

Zolkiew.  Zolkiew, a Town adorned and defended by a Castle, and intermixed with several delightful Gardens, with a fair Church in the middle of it, built with various sorts of Marble. It was the Seat of the late King John Sobieski, where my Lord of Rochester had Audience of him.  

It's Arms.  The Standard and Arms of this District are a Lion Passant Crowned Or, by a Rock Sables, all in a Field Azure.  

II. District.  The second District of this Palatinate is  
Premislia, which has in it these principal Cities and Towns, Viz.  

Premislaw, Bish.  
Sambor,  
Jaroslaw,  
Lancut,  
Resovia,  
Fulstin,  
Visnia,  
Zidaczow,  
Moscisca,  
Dubiecz,  
Canczuga, and  
Prevorscia.   

Cities and Towns of  Whereof the capital City is  

Premislaw.  Premislaw, built on the River San with good strong Walls and a Castle, situate upon a Rock on the other side of the River. This City lies about six Leagues above Jaroslaw, and twelve from Leopol towards the West. There are in it two Bishops, one of the Place, and the other a Russian Prelate of the Greek Church. Orichowski, a Canon of this Cathedral, maintained▪ that Priests might marry. Here is a College belonging to the Jesuits for the Education of Youth. The Citizens are very much addicted to Trade, and have several famous Fairs every Year. Near this City is a very spacious Park of the King's, full of all kinds of wild Beasts, and strongly walled in, that they might do no mischief. The Country hereabouts abounds with Castles for defence against the Incursions of the Tartars; the chief of all which is the Castle Crassici, lately built on the River San.  

Sambor.  Sambor, a Palisadoed City upon the River Tyra, with a Castle built near the Borders of Hungary.  

Jaroslaw.  Jaroslaw, famous for a Fair kept on Lady-Day, and the most celebrated of any in all Poland. Where, besides several Merchandizes brought from Persia, Constantinople, Venice, Muscovy and Amsterdam, they say, it is wont to have above four hundred thousand Head of Cattle, and half as many Horses. In this Town the Jesuits have a College for Students, and without it there is a very stately Nunnery of modern Architecture. Neither is its Castle to be despised, which is seated to the East on the River San.  

Lancut.  Lancut, famous for several magnificent Churches, founded by Stanislaus Lubomirski, Palatin of Cracow, together with a Castle well fortified against the Tartars.  

Resovia.  Resovia has in it a considerable Castle, with several Monasteries, and a Fair kept on the Feast of St. Albert. This Town is famous for a Linen Manufacture performed by the Germans, whose Ancestors having been taken Prisoners by Casimir the Great, were settled in and about this Place.  

It's Arms.  The Standard or Arms of this District are an Eagle expansed with two Heads, both Crowned Or, in a Field Azure. 
III. District.   
The third District of the Palatinate of Russia is that of  
Halicz, encompassed towards the West with the Mountains of Transylvania, to the South by the Boechy-Woods of Walachia, and towards the East is divided into two Parts by the Tyra or Niester, a rapid River, which arises among the Carpathian Mountains, and discharges itself into the Euxine Sea. The South Division of this District is called Procutia. The whole District contains these remarkable Cities and Towns, Viz.  

Halicz, Cap.  
Sniatin, Cap. of Procutia.  
Colom.  
Martinow.  
Dolina.  
Strium.  
Podock.  
Brezana.  
Buczavia or Busko,  
and Podhajecia.   

Cities and Towns of  The chief all which is  

Halicz.  Halicz, formerly Metropolis of the Russian Kingdom, which was then divided into several Tetrarchies, each of which had its proper Duke. It is a large Timber-built City, divided from Moldavia by the River Prud, and on the other side washed by the Niester. It has a wooden Castle situated on an Eminence hard by the Niester. Its Inhabitants are somewhat Rustical, and addicted more to Agriculture than Trade.  

Sniatin.  Sniatin, a wooden Palisadoed Town on the Borders of Walachia, watered by the Prud, and is Capital of Procutia. In it were wont to be Fairs kept, which the Null made their Magazine; whence it became very well furnished with Cattle, Honey, Wax, and an excellent Breed of brave Horses in great Numbers.  

Colom.  Colom, a wooden Town, built under a Hill near the River Prud. It is very much frequented on account of its Refining Salt, with which it furnishes all the rest of Russia and Lithuania, there being none in those two Provinces, except only in the District of Premislaw. Almost all over this District there are deep Wells, whose Water is boiled up into Salt. In the Deserts likewise of the ukraine, near the Boristhenes, there is a certain Lake, whose Water by the power of the Sun is congealed into solid Lumps of Salt, and which the Inhabitants thereabouts only use.  

Martinow.  Martinow, a Town in Procutia, having a Castle built among the Marshes.  

Dolina.  Dolina, a wooden-built Town, situated among the Hills.  

Strium.  Strium, built likewise with Wood, near the River of its own Name.  

Podock.  Podock, on the other side of the Niester, defended by a Castle, and adorned by a fair Monastery, built by Steven Potucius, Palatin of Braclaw, who died and lies buried there.  

Brezana.  Brezana, a populous Town, built with Wood, having a walled Castle on a Hill hard by.  

Buczavia.  Buczavia, or Busko, built among the Marshes, near which the River Bug has its Rise; by means of which several Merchandizes are transported to Leopol.  

Podhajecia.  Podhajecia, environed with a Wall, and other Fortifications, having not far off the famous Castle of Zavalovia.  

IV. District.  The fourth District of the Palatinate of Russia is that of  
Sanoch, near the Mountains of Hungary and Transylvania, and consequently abounding in little Hills except only towards Crosna. In it are these Cities and Towns, Viz. 

Sanoch, Cap.  
Crosna,  
Brozovia,  
Rimanovia,  
Dinovia, and  
Lesko,    

Cities and Towns of  Of all which the principal City is  

Sanoch.  Sanoch, built with Wood, among the Hills, and near the River San. It has a no-ways contemptible Castle, founded upon a Rock.  

Crosna.  Crosna, the Staple of the Hungarians, whither they bring all their Merchandizes and Wines; and therefore the Fairs and Marts here are more celebrated than those of their Neighbours. In this City likewise the Jesuits have a College for Human Learning. It exceeds Sanoch in its Number of Inhabitants, and Concourse of Strangers.  

Brozovia, etc.  The other Cities and Towns of Brozovia, Rimanovia, Dinovia and Lesko, are Places of no small Strength against the Incursions of the Tartars.  

Senators of Sanoch.  The Senators of the Palatinate of Russia are 

The Archbishop of Leopol.  
The Bishops of Premislaw, and Kiovia.  
The Palatin of Russia.  
The Castellans of 

Leopol.  
Premislaw.  
Halicz, and  
Sanoch.      

II. Palatinate.  The Second Palatinate of the Province of Red- Russia, is that of  
Podolia, famous for the frequent Eruptions of Barbarians, and the many Battles fought with them there. If these People (says Starovolscius) might enjoy a wished-for Peace like the Western Countries of Europe, they would have no reason to envy either the Plenty or Riches of Italy or Hungary. This Palatinate has in it divers sorts of Marble and Alabaster in several Places, and is divided into three Districts, Viz. The Districts of Caminiec, Trembowla, and Laticzow.  
In all which are these principal Cities and Towns, Viz. 

Caminiec, Cap.  
Trembowla.  
Laticzow.  
Bar.  
Husiatinow.  
Czartikow.  
Janow.  
Czvaniec.  
Chmielnic.  
Miedzibosz, or  
Misdzibozia.  
Zinkow.  
Jesupolis.  
Jacloveck.  
Satanow.  
Tarnopolia.  
Kitaigrod, and  
Dunaigrod.    

Cities and Towns of  The Chief City of all which is  
Caminiec, situate on the Confines of Walachia, 
Caminiec.  among Rocks and Hills. It is well fortified both by Nature and Art, and has a very strong Castle, built on an adjacent Rock which commands the Town. It's Avenue is covered with a Horn-work, which is separated from the Body of the Place by a deep Moat. Both City and Castle are almost encompassed by the River Smotrzick, which a little below falls into the Niester. The Rocks lie every way so high about this City, that you can discover only the Tops of the highest Houses. It lies fifteen Polish Miles from Bar to the West, thirty from Leopol, thirty six from Jassy, thirty from Kiow, eighty from Warsaw, and about a hundred and seventy from Constantinople. This strong City, which is the See of a Prelate, Suffragan to the Archbishop of Leopol, was very much damaged by a Fire in the Year 1669, and has been often in vain attacked by the utmost Fury of the Turks and Tartars, till in the Year 1672 it fell into the possession of the former, in which it still continues. It was blocked up by Motula, General of the Cosacks, in the Year 1687; and the Poles afterwards made great Preparations to join his Troops, but were both obliged to retire upon the Approaches of the Ottoman Forces. Afterwards another Blockade was formed by the Polish Army in 1688, and the next year they actually invested the Place, and began a formal Attack in the Month of August; but the Siege was raised in September following, and never since attempted, so that the Infidels remain at present in quiet possession hereof, together with several other considerable Places in this Palatinate.  

Trembowla.  Trembowla, a City lying under a great Mountain, with a Castle built upon an adjoining Hill.  

Laticzow.  Laticzow, well fortified against Incursions, with an adjoining Castle and Warlike Inhatants.  

Bar.  Bar, a City built and palisadoed round by Buona, Daughter of John Sforza Duke of Milan, and Queen to Sigismond King of Poland, so naming it from the Place where she was born. It has a Castle on a Hill, surrounded every way with Bogs and Lakes.  

Husiatinow.  Husiatinow, well fortified also against Incursions.  

Czartikow.  Czartikow, with the like strong Fortifications and a Castle.  

Janow, etc.  Janow and Czvaniec, with several others, are very strong Places.  

Chmielnick.  Chmielnick, a Timber-built Town, defended only with Palisado's, with a wooden Castle, built upon the River Bog.  

Miedzibosz.  Miedzibosz, a Town with a large Timber Castle, situate among the Marshes, to which there is no Avenue but over Bridges. This Place was formerly much infested by the Tartars.  

Senators of Podolia.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, 

The Bishop,  
The Palatin, and  
The Castellan   of 

Caminiec,  
Podolia,  
Caminiec.    

●●s Arms.  The Standard or Arms of this Palatinate are the Sun in its full Glory in a Field Azure.  

III. Palatinate.  The Third Palatinate of the Province of Red- Russia, is that of  
Braslaw, or Braclaw, lying beyond Podolia, upon the Borders of Tartary, now out of possession of the Poles; in which are these Cities and Towns, Viz. 

Braclaw, Cap.  
Vinnicza,  
Zitomir,  
Sarogrod,  
Morachua,  
Jarosow,  
Felstin, and  
Chmielnic.    

Cities of  Of which the capital City is  

Braclaw.  Braclaw, built on the River Bog, with a wooden Castle and other Fortifications. It lies a hundred and ten Miles from Caminiec to the East, fifty five from Bar, and fifty from the Confines of Walachia to the North, towards Kiow. It was taken, and miserably wasted by the Turks in the Year 1672.  

Vinnicza.  Vinnicza, a wooden City likewise, built on the River Bog, and defended with a Castle and a Wall. This City is famous for a Meeting of the Gentry and a Court of Justice; where the Jesuits also have a College to instruct Youth. These two Cities have been very much infested by the Tartars. I find no Description of the rest.  

Senators of Braslaw.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, The Palatin, and Castellan of Braslaw.  

IV. Palatinate.  The Fourth Palatinate of the Province of Red- Russia, is that of  
Kiovia, bordering on one side on Tartary, and on the other on Moscovy. It is divided in the middle by the famous River Boristhenes. This Palatinate extends a great way towards the Euxine Sea, to the Confines of White- Russia in Lithuania. In it are these principal Cities and Towns, Viz. 

Kiow 

Bish.  
Cap.    
Kaniow,  
Circassia,  
Oczakow,  
Stepanow,  
Fastovia,  
Bohuslaw,  
Pereslaw and  
Bialerkiow.    

Cities and Towns of  The chief City of all which is  

Kiow.  Kiow, or Kiouf, according to the Pronunciation of the Inhabitants, an ancient, large, and very populous City, fortified with strong Palisado's, a Castle, Trench, and some other Regular Works, and situate on the Boristhenes or Nieper. The old Kiow was built on a Hill a little beyond the River, where are still to be seen the Ruins of many Arches, high Walls, Churches, and Burying-places of divers Kings with Greek Inscriptions. Of these Churches, two remain in tolerable good Condition, viz. those of St. Sophia and St. Michael. The Walls of the former are lined with curious Mosaic Work, and the Dome consists of Earthen Pots, well cemented and filled with Mortar. St. Michael's Church is chiefly remarkable for its gilded Roof. The Burying-places of the ancient great Men of Russia were in several Caves near this City, some of which are said to extend into the Borders of Moscovy above eighty Miles in length. The Bodies here are preserved whole and entire, especially those of two certain Princes, which are dressed in Antique Habits, and have been not long since shown to Travellers by the Russian Monks. The Place where these Sepulchers are made is of a sandy Stone, very dry, and seems to be of the same Nature with the Catacombs of Rome. Kiow was heretofore an exceeding large City, as may appear from the Ruins of the Walls, which extend themselves above eight Miles in compass. It is said to have been first founded by a Russian Prince named Kius, in the Year of Christ 861, and then constituted Metropolis of Tauro-Scythia. Next it became the Seat of the Russian Empire, and was afterwards governed by its own Princes. It was stormed and pillaged by the Tartars in the Year 1615, and has ever since declined from its primitive Grandeur. It has been often taken and retaken within the Space of thirty Years, but now remains wholly in possession of the Ozar of Moscovy, to whom it was lately pawned by the Cosacks. The Episcopal See of Kiow is subject to the Metropolitan of Leopol. Here resides the Russian Archbishop, supreme over all of the same Persuasion throughout Poland. Here are divers Roman and Russian Churches, and a great many Monasteries, etc.  

Kaniow.  Kaniow, seventeen Miles from Kiow, whose Inhabitants with its Neighbours round about, are a very Warlike People.  

Circassia.  Circassia, a Timber-built City on the River Boristhenes, about twenty five Polish Miles from Kiow. Its Inhabitants were formerly the Circassi, a Warlike People, and much celebrated in History, who likewise dwelled all along the Boristhenes.  

Oczakow.  Oczakow, built upon the Mouth of the Boristhenes, and inhabited by Tartars, though commanded and governed by Turks.  

Stepanow.  Stepanow, fortified with a Castle, a Wall, and a Ditch.  

Fastovia.  Fastovia, famous only for being the Residence of the Bishop of Kiow, and the Jesuits College translated from Kiow.  

Bohuslaw.  Bohuslaw, Pereslaw, and Bialerkiow, are all Towns indifferently populous, and each defended by a Castle.  

The Senators of Kiovia.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, The Bishop Palatin, and Castellan of Kiovia.  

It's Arms.  The Standard or Arms of this Palatinate are Party per Pale Argent and Azure. In the former the Charge of Lithuania, and in the latter a Bear Passant.  

V. Palatinate.  The Fifth Palatinate of the Province of Red- Russia, is that of  
Belsko, joining to the District of Leopol, and Palatinate of Chelm, and placed about the middle of Red- Russia. It is divided into four Districts, Viz. The Districts of 

Belsko,  
Busko,  
Grodlow, and  
Grabow.    
In all which are the several Cities and Towns of 

Belsko, Cap. of the Palatinate.  
Busko, Cap. of its District.  
Grodlow, Cap. of its District.  
Grabow, Cap. of its District.  
Sokal, etc.    

Cities and Towns of  The chief of all which is  

Belsko.  Belsko, or Belz, a Timber-built City, indifferently large, and situate among the Marshes, between Leopol and Zamoisk, and about five Miles from the River Bug. It has a wooden Castle, built on a Hill, surrounded every way with Bogs.  

Busko.  Busko, or Busk, a Town seated in a Moor, where the River ●● g takes its Rise, by which Merchandizes are ansported to Leopol only five Miles distant.  

Grodlow.  Grodlow, a palisadoed Town, with a Castle upon a Hill washed by the River Bug.  

Grabow.  Grabow, a wooden Town, seated in a large Plain, with a Castle fortified both by Nature and Art, and of very difficult Access.  

Sokal.  Sokal, a Town seated on the Bug, and defended only with Palisado's.  

Senators of Belsko.  The Senators of this Palatinate are The Palatin and Castellan of Belsko.  

It's Arms.  The Arms or Standard of this Palatinate are a Griffin Volant, Argent in a Field Gules.  

VI Palatinate.  The Sixth Palatinate of Red- Russia is that of  
Chelm, lying between Lublin, Lithuania, and Volhynia, and is divided into two Districts, Viz. The Districts of Chelm, and Crasnistaw.  
In both which are these Cities and Towns, Viz. 

Chelm 

Bish.  
Cap.    
Crasnistaw,  
Zamoisk,  
Ratno,  
Lynbowlya,  
Rozana,  
Vlodavia.  
Scebresin,  
Turobin,  
Tamogrod,  
Tomasow, and  
Ctesow.    

Cities and Towns of  The Capital of all which is  

Chelm.  Chelm, a small City defended with a Castle, the Outworks whereof are made of Wood It lies about ten Miles from Lublin to the East, twenty four from Premistaw to the North, and twelve from Belsko. It has been sacked and burnt by the Muscovites and Tartars during the late Wars, which occasioned the Residence of its Bishop to be translated to Crasnistaw. Nevertheless, an Oriental or Russian Bishop still resides there.  

Crasnistaw.  Crasnistaw, a walled Town upon the River Vepre, where the Bishop of Chelm at present has his Residence in a Palace of modern Architecture. Near this place the Archduke Maximilian, when he came with an Army to seize the Crown of Poland, was shamefully repulsed by John Zamoiski, who immediately afterwards built a Town in that Neighbourhood, calling it after his own Name,  

Zamoisk.  Zamoisk, well defended by high Walls, deep Ditches, and other strong Fortifications, after the modern Manner. He likewise built a fair Cathedral here, and enriched it with all manner of Necessaries; also a noble Academy, furnished with Learned Masters from the famous University of Cracow. This Person was so great a favourer of Learning. that not only Zamoisk, but also several other Places of the Province of Russia found the Effects of his Bounty.  

Ratno.  Ratno, a wooden Town, built among the Marshes, with a Castle washed by the River Perepet on one side, and defended on the other by a Bog and the Niester. It lies 'bout twenty four Miles from Chelm.  

Lynbowlya.  Lynbowlya, a Town upon the Bug, with a tolerably fortified Castle.  

Senators of Chelm.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, The Bishop and Castellan of Chelm.  

It's Arms.  The Standard or Arms of this Palatinate are a Bear Argent passant between three Trees proper in a Field Or.  

V. PROVINCE.  The Fifth PROVINCE of this Kingdom is  
Masovia, situate almost in the Heart of the Kingdom of Poland, and bounded on the North 
Its Bounds.  by Prussia, on the East by Lithuania, on the South by Upper Poland, and on the West by Lower Poland. It was formerly governed by its own Princes, but in the Year 1526▪ by the Death of its Duke's John and Stanislaus, that Duchy fell to the Kings of Poland. The 
Inhabitants.  Inhabitants hereof are generally Warlike: They speak the same Language with the Poles, only they differ in some few guttural Accents: Their Manners, Habits and Religion are much the same. This Province is divided into three Palatinates, which are, 
Division.  The Palatinates of 

Masovia, properly so called.  
Ploczkow, and  
Dobrina.    

I. Palatinate.  The first Palatinate of this Province is that of  
Masovia properly so called, which in spiritual Matters is subject only to the Bishop of Posnan, but in Temporal is divided into twelve Districts, viz. The Districts of 

Warsaw,  
Wisna,  
Cyrna,  
Zembrow,  
Nuren,  
Wissegrod,  
Zakrow,  
Cickanow,  
Lombze,  
Rozan,  
Makow, and  
Liw.    
In all which the principal Cities and Towns are those of the same Name with the Districts, adding moreover these following, viz.  

Pultovia,  
Czerniensk,  
Czersko,  
Akroczim,  
Varka,  
Blonye,  
Pultowsko,  
Tarcin,  
Grodzyec,  
Prasniz,  
Garvolinia,  
Vengrovia,  
Stanislanovia,  
Broc,  
Viskow, and  
Seroicz.   

Cities and Towns of  The chief City of all which, and Metropolis of the Province is  

Warsaw.  Warsaw, defended with a Castle, Wall and Ditch, seated in a Plain in the very Centre of the Kingdom, and therefore pitched upon for the convening of the Diet. It lies upon the River Vistula, in the 43 d degree of Longitude, and 52 of Latitude, and is divided into four Parts, viz. 

The 

Old and  
New   Town, with  
The Suburbs of 

Cracow, and  
Prag.      
This City is adorned with divers stately Piles of Buildings, particularly a spacious foursquare Palace founded by Sigismond III. and much improved by his Successors, where the Kings of Poland most commonly reside. Opposite to this on the other side of the River, stands another Royal Palace in the middle of delightful Groves and Gardens, built by Vladislaus VII. and called by the Name of Viasdow, where the States or Diet of Poland formerly used to sit and debate the most important Affairs of the Kingdom. There is moreover the Palace of King John Casimir, as likewise a very stately one built by Count Morstin, Great Treasurer of Poland. Also a League from this City King John Sobieski built a neat Country Palace by the Name of Villa Nova. The other Public Edifices are no less remarkable, being the Church of St. John Baptist, where Secular Canons officiate; the Arsenal, Castle, Market-place, etc. Divers kinds of Merchandizes are conveyed hither along a River from the neighbouring Provinces, and from hence carried to Dantzic to be transported into Foreign Countries. In the Suburbs of Cracow is a small Chapel built on purpose for the Burial of John Demetrius Suski, Great Duke of Muscovy, who died Prisoner in the Castle of Gostinin, together with his two Brothers. This City was taken by the Swedes in the Year 1655, and is scarce three Polish Miles distant from Lesser Poland, about twenty four from Lanschet, as many North-East of Lublin, twenty nine Southeast of Thorn, thirty to the North from Sendomir, thirty three West of Gnesna, and forty to the North-East from Cracow and Posnan.  

Wisna.  Wisna, a Town in a Plain near the River Narew, with a Castle upon an adjoining Hill.  

Wissegrod.  Wissegrod, a Wooden Town built in a Plain near the Vistula, with a considerable Castle: It lies about twelve Miles from Warsaw.  

Ciekanow.  Ciekanow, about the same distance from Warsaw, being a Town built in a Plain likewise, with a Castle among the Marshes.  

Lombze.  Lombze, a large City upon the navigable River Narew, consisting of fair Buildings, and about twenty Miles from Warsaw.  

Rozan.  Rozan, a Town built in a Plain near the River Narew.  

Liw.  Liw, a Timber-built Town, with a Castle founded on the Banks of the River Liwijecz.  

Pultovia.  Pultovia, famous for being the Residence of the Bishop of Plosko. It is a Town built with Brick, with a good Castle, and some other tolerable Edifices.  

Czerniensk.  Czerniensk, a large Wooden Town built on the Vistula.  

Akroczim.  Akroczim, a Wooden Town likewise seated on the Vistula, with a Castle. It is about eight Miles from Warsaw.  

Varka.  Varka, a large Town built in a Plain near the River Pilza, and about eight Miles from Warsaw another way.  

Blonye.  Blonye, a Town about four Miles from Warsaw.  

Pultowsko.  Pultowsko, a Walled Town with a Castle, situate on the River Narew.  

Tarcin.  Tarcin, a Timber-built Town, about five Miles from Warsaw.  

Grodzyec.  Grodzyec, about seven Miles from Warsaw, and two from Tarcin.  

Prasniz.  Prasniz, a large Town, intermixed with a great many fair Stone Edifices. 
Senators of the Pal. of Masovia.   
The Senators of this Palatinate are, 

The Palatine of Masovia.  
The Castellans of 

Cyrna,  
Warsaw,  
Wisna,  
Wissegrod,  
Zakrow,  
Ciekanow, and  
Liw.      

It's Arms.  The Arms or Standard of this Palatinate, are an Eagle expanded Argent in a Field Gules.  

II. Palatinate.  The second Palatinate of the Province of Masovia is that of  
Ploskow, lying towards the East between the Vistula and Prussia. It is divided into four Districts, viz. The Districts of 

Ploczkow,  
Zancren,  
Mlava, and  
Stenen.    
In all which are these principal Cities and Towns viz., 

Ploczkow 

Bish.  
Cap.    
Sieprcz,  
Srensko,  
Mlaw, and  
Radzanow.    
The Capital of all which is  

Ploczko.  Ploczkow, or Ploczko, Metropolis of the Palatinate of that Name, which stands on a high Bank of the Weissel or Vistula, from whence one may have a very fair Prospect of a pleasant and fruitful Country. This City is considerably enriched by the Navigableness of its River, is very populous, and has been long dignified with a Bishop's See. Besides the Cathedral, there are divers other Churches and Monasteries richly endowed, especially the Abbey of Benedictins in the Suburbs, where amongst other Relics, the Head of St. Sigismond is kept in Gold which was given by King Sigismond III.  

Sieprcz.  Sieprcz, a Wooden Town built on a Hill among the Marshes, and about five Miles from Ploczkow.  

Srensko.  Srensko, a Timber-built Town, seated in a Plain, with a Castle founded among the Bogs. This Place is about ten Miles from Ploczko.  

Mlaw.  Mlaw, a Town built on the Confines of Prussia, and washed by the River of its own Name. It is also about ten Miles from Ploczkow.  

Radzanow.  Radzanow, a Timber-built Town on the River Vkra, with a Castle founded upon a Rock amongst the Marshes. This Town is about eight Miles from Ploczkow.  

Senators of Ploskow.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, 

The 

Bishop  
Palatin and  
Castellan   of Ploskow.  
The Castellans of Sieprcz, and Radzanow.    

It's Arms.  The Standard or Arms of this Palatinate, are an Eagle expansed Sables with a P on the Breast: All in a Field Gules.  

III. Palatinate.  The third Palatinate of the Province of Masovia, is that of  
Dobrina, lying towards the West between Cujavia and Prussia: It abounds with all sorts of Fruit and Fish, and is divided into three Districts, viz. The District of 

Dobrina,  
Ripin, and  
Slonsk.    
In all which are these principal Cities and Towns, viz.  

Dobrina, Cap.  
Ripin,  
Slonsk, and  
Gorzno.   

Cities and Towns of  The Capital City of this Palatinate is  

Dobrina.  Dobrina, a Timber-built City, seated on a Rock near the River Vistula. It had formerly a Castle which was demolished by the Teutonick Knights.  

Ripin.  Ripin, a Wooden Town, built in a Plain on the River Odleck: It is about five Miles from Dobrina.  

Slonsk.  Slonsk, a Town in a Plain, situate upon the River Vistula, and about two Miles from Dobrina.  

Gorzno.  Gorzno, or Gurzno, a Wood-built Town, tolerably well defended by Nature and Art: It is about six Polish Miles from Dobrina.  
This Palatinate was formerly the cause of frequent Wars between the Poles, Teutonick Knights, and Prussians.  

Senators of Dobrina.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, The Castellans of 

Dobrina,  
Ripin, and  
Slonsk.    

It's Arms.  The Arms and Standard of this Palatinate, are a Man's Head proper, doubly crowned Or and Argent: All in a Field Gules.  

VI PROVINCE.  The Sixth PROVINCE of this Kingdom is  
Samogitia, having in it no Palatinate, though many Capitanies, of which the chief Starosta is he of the Province who has a Place in the Senate, though no other of the same Dignity have the like throughout the whole Kingdom, except he be otherwise qualified. This Province is indifferently large and fruitful, though it be very much overrun with Woods. To the North it is bounded by Curland and the 
Its Bounds.  Baltic Sea: On the West it has Ducal Prussia and the Baltic; and towards the South and East it borders on Lithuania. It has several Cities as well belonging to the King as the Gentry, which for the most part are all built with Wood This Province takes its Name from its Situation, which is low and marshy; the word Samogitz in the Language of this Country denoting as much. It abounds with Lakes and inaccessible Mountains, yet affords great quantities of Honey, purer than that either of Lithuania or Livonia, and breeds Horses which are very much admired for their Swiftness. The ordinary People here live in 
Manners of the People.  Cottages for the most part seated near Lakes or Rivers, and covered either with Thatch or Board's. They plough the Ground not with Iron but Wood, though the Soil be most commonly fat and stiff; which Custom they are addicted to even to Superstition: for when a certain Starosta of that Country thought to introduce Iron Plowshares among them, and the Season not happening to prove as kind as usual, they attributed all the cause to this change of Instrument; whereupon they were permitted to return to their old way for fear of an Insurrection. Their Horses are generally so small, that one would wonder how they could undergo the Fatigue they put 'em to. Most of the Inhabitants of this Country differ little in Manners, Habit or Language from the Lithuanians; yet some of them still retain several Idolatrous Worships, especially 
Their Superstition.  in the Deserts, where they pay Devotion to a fourfooted Serpent, under the Name of Givosit; and you'll hardly find a Family in these Parts without one of these Household Gods. Nay, even at this day in many Villages both of Prussia and Lithuania, the poor Peasants, although they profess Christianity, yet keep Adders in their Houses, to which they pay a more than ordinary Veneration, imagining that some great Mischief would befall them if these Idols should come to any harm. To be more particular with this Country, your Lordship may understand that their Houses (except only those of the Gentry) are built low and long-ways, with an Hearth in the middle, and but one Room, which serves not only for themselves but their cattle. The better sort drink out of Horn Cups, and eat out of Wooden Platters. The Honey here is extraordinary, having but little Wax; and some of it is perfectly white, with which the Woods are every where almost lined. 
Manrer of sacrificing.  The manner of the Pagan Sacrifices and Feasts in Samogitia kept at this day about the end of October, is as follows. First, the Place of meeting being assigned, the Men with their Wives, Children and Servants, punctually appear thereat, when spreading a Cloth upon the Straw, several Loaves are set in due order, and between each Loaf a large Pot of Beer; then Beasts of divers kinds both Male and Female are brought in, and sacrificed after the ancient Custom, thus. First, the Augur or Priest, after having mumbled over some few words, strikes 'em with a Wand he holds in his hand on the Back, Belly, etc. when all that are present likewise follow his Example, crying out, O Zimiennick! (for so they call their God) these Offerings we make to thee for protecting us so mercifully hitherto, and we most humbly implore thee to have the like Compassion on us for the future, as to preserve us from Fire, Sword, Pestilence and our Enemies: Which said, they immediately fall to, but first cut off a bit from every Plate, and throw 'em about the Room, crying, O Zimiennick, graciously partake of our Sacrifices, and favour thy Adorers! After which they eat and drink heartily, and so the Ceremony concludes. These Sacrifices are also still observed by the Countrypeople in several places of Lithuania and Russia. This Province is divided into three Districts, which are, The Districts of 

Rosienia,  
Mednick, and  
Poniviess.    
In all which are these principal Towns, viz.  

Rosienia, Cap.  
Mednick,  
Poniviess, and  
Cowna.   

Towns of  The Capital of all which is  

Rosienia  Rosienia, a small ill-built Town, though the chief of the Province of Samogitia, being seated on the River Dubiss, about twelve Polish Miles from Cowna to the North, thirty from Riga, and twenty seven from Vilna to the West.  

Mednick.  Mednick, somewhat better built than the former, and famous for a Suffragan's See belonging to the Archbishop of Gnesna. This Town is seated on the River Wirwitz.  

Poniviess.  Poniviess, Capital only of the District of that Name.  

Cowna.  Cowna, situate on the River Niemen, and famous for a College of Jesuits, and several considerable Monasteries. This Town was formerly much frequented by the Germane Merchants, who built here divers splendid Edifices both with Stone and Brick, which the Inhabitants have since imitated, and in some things excelled.  

Senators of Samogitia.  The Senators of this Province are, The 

Bishop  
Starosta, and  
Castellan   of Samogitia.  

VII. PROVINCE.  The Seventh PROVINCE of this Kingdom is  
Volhynia, which is divided into two large Districts, viz. The Districts of Luccoria, and Cremen.  
In both which are these principal Cities and Towns, viz. 

Lutzko 

Bish.  
Cap. of Luceoria.    
Vlodimir, or Woldzimiers.  
Krzemenec, Cap. of Cremen.  
Brodi,  
Olika,  
Constantinow,  
Zsbarasz,  
Ostropium,  
Wisniovec,  
Zaslaw,  
Basilea,  
Miedirecz,  
Rubesow,  
Dubna,  
Czartorisk,  
Olesk,  
and Krilow.    

Cities and Towns of  The Capital City of the District of Luceoria, and Metropolis of Volhynia, is that of  

Lutzko.  Lutzko, or Luzuk, a Timber-built City, situate on the Banks of the River Stir, near a Lake which encompasses part of the Castle. It is hardly seven Miles from the Frontiers of Red Russia to the East, and twenty from Leopol to the North-East. It is a large City, and is an Episcopal See, and the Residence of a Bishop subject to the Metropolitan of Gnesna. The Cathedral and Chapterhouse are in one of the Castles, there being two built on adjoining Hills near this City. Here likewise resides a Russian Bishop.  

Ulodimir.  Vlodimir, a Wooden Town, with Wooden Fortifications, and built among the Marshes. It lies not far from Lutzko, and is the Residence of a Russian Bishop with a considerable Jurisdiction.  

Krzemenec.  Krzemenec, Capital of the District of Cremen, a large Timber City with a Wooden Castle and Mud Walls.  

Brodi.  Brodi, a Town built by Stanislaus Konicepoliski, Castellan of Cracovia, with strong Fortifications, a Collegiate Church, and a public Academy.  

Olika.  Olika, a Town belonging to the House of Radzivil, adorned with a fair Cathedral, and Academy for all sorts of Arts and Sciences.  

Constantinow.  Constantinow, adorned and defended by a well-fortified Castle.  

Zsbarasz.  Zsbarasz, formerly a Free City, with a Territory or District of its own, but now subject to that of Cremen.  

Senators of Volhynia.  The Senators of this Province are, 

The Bishop of Luceoria.  
The Palatin, and The Castellansof Volhynia.    

It's Arms.  The Standard or Arms of this Province of Volhynia are Party per Pale, Argent and Azure, the former containing the Arms of Lithuania.  

VIII. PROVINCE.  The Eighth PROVINCE of this Kingdom is  
Podlachia, a large Province and Palatinate, bounded on the West by Masovia, and on the 
Its Bounds.  East by Lithuania, to which it formerly belonged till Sigismundus Augustus in the Year 1569 united it to Poland. In Spiritual Matters it is wholly subject to the Bishop of Luceoria, but as to Temporal it is divided into three Districts, viz. The Districts of 

Byclsko,  
Drogiczynen, and  
Mielnick.    
In all which there are these Principal Cities and Towns, viz. 

Byelsko, Cap.  
Drogiczin,  
Myelnick,  
Tykoczin,  
Knyssin,  
Augustow,  
Mordi,  
Wasilkow,  
Narew,  
Bransko,  
Visokie, and  
Holovacz.    

Cities and Towns of  Of all which the Capital is  

Byelsko.  Byelsko, a large Timber-built City, Metropolis of this Province, and seated on the River Byala dividing it from Lithuania. It's Castle was burnt down by Lightning, and never since rebuilt.  

Drogiczin.  Drogiczin, Capital of the District of that Name, and built on a small Rising near the River Bug. This City is famous for a Court of Justice, wherein the Causes of the Gentry are tried. It lies about ten Miles from Bielsko, and thirty from Warsaw.  

Myelnick.  Mielnick, a Town on the Bug likewise, only famous for being Capital of its District. It is about five Miles from Drogiczin.  

Tykoczin.  Tykoczin, a Town built in a Plain upon the River Narew. It has a Castle well fortified both by Art and Nature, being surrounded by vast Bogs, and defended every way with several large Cannon. Here part of the King's Treasure is kept; and here likewise Sigismundus Augustus caused Money to be coined. It lies about ten Miles from Byelsko, and forty two from Vilna.  

Knyssin.  Knyssin, a Wood-built Town, seated among Marshes and Woods. Here the King has a Palace, and a very large Park, abounding with Deers of all sorts; and huge Fishponds, replenished with all kinds of freshwater Fish.  

Augustow.  Augustow a very large City, built by Sigismundus Augustus, and which lies about twenty Miles from Byelsko.  

Mordi.  Mordi a Timber-built Town, seated on a very large Lake, and about five Miles from Drogiczin.  

Wasilkow.  Wasilkow a Wood-built Town on the River Narew, where the King's Starosta resides.  

Narew.  Narew situate in the midst of Woods, and near the River of that Name. This Town lies about four Miles from Byelsko.  

Bransko.  Bransko built on the River Nar, only famous for a Court of Justice held there. It lies about three Polish Miles from Byelsko.  

Suras.  Suras a Town built at the foot of a Hill near the River Narew. It has a Castle which commands the Town.  

Senators of the Province of Podlachia.  The Senators of this Province are, The Palatine, and Castellan of Podlachia.  

It's Arms.  The Standard or Arms of this Province are Party per Pale, Argent and Gules: In the former the Arms of Lithuania, and in the latter an Eagle Expansed of the first.  
Thus far, my Lord, have I traced the Extent of Poland, and the Divisions of its Provinces, and have taken notice of what I have both observed and heard to be most remarkable in them; whereby your Lordship may find that this vast Kingdom is not so contemptible as we of the Western Parts of Europe have imagined: for this Country abounds with all Necessaries to support itself, both in Peace and War, without the help of its Neighbours; and had it been as well improved by Art, and enriched by Trade, as it is made fruitful by Nature, it would doubtless have been able to vie with any Kingdom in Europe: Which the King of France, and other Princes, are now sensible of, since they have profusely spent vast Sums of Money, to advance either themselves or Friends to that Crown, though they were no ways certain of Success, knowing, that let the Sums they spent be ever so considerable, they would be fully recompensed when they obtained their Ends; for a King of Poland can raise as considerable an Army, and that chiefly of Horse, as any Christian Prince. He has ever had a great Reputation with the Eastern Princes; and considering their History, I find as remarkable Transactions and Exploits in the Lives of the Kings of Poland, as in any other History whatever.  
I must confess, the Poles have not been such refined Politicians, nor so prudently managed their own Interest as some of their Neighbours have done; for by their ill Conduct, and supine Negligence, they have lost the best Part of their Ancient Dominions: which yet has happened to them, neither on account of their Deficiency in Courage or Bravery; but at present the Poles beginning to inquire into the State of Foreign Countries, and into their Maxims of Government, they are become more Vigilant and Political, and are likely, under the Command of their present King, as well to retrieve their Honour, as recover their lost Dominions.  
I would, my Lord, have presented you with a great many other entertaining Matters relating to the Geography and Natural History of this Country, had I either seen them myself, or been secure of the Relation of others; but I would rather choose to be deficient in this Account, than to give your Lordship just reason to believe that I were too credulous. I am,  
My LORD, Your Lordship's most obedient humble Servant, B. C.    

LETTER VI.  
To GEORGE STEPNEY Esq; late Envoy Extraordinary from his Majesty to the Electors and Princes of the Empire.  
Of the Origin and Extent of the Great Duchy of Lithuania, with the Succession of its Great Dukes, and Description of its chief Towns and Provinces.  
SIR,  
THE Zeal you have showed for his Majesty's Service in your Ministry at the Courts of the Empire, and the Reputation I found you left behind you in those Places, to the Honour of so great a Master, deserve not only the repeated Proofs of his usual Bounty, and the Choice he wisely made of you a second time to represent his Royal Person, but likewise the Esteem of all those that are acquainted with your Merits. To pretend to inform you of the Constitution of any State in Europe, would not be only the calling in question your Experience in Foreign Affairs, and your undoubted Knowledge in Politics, but likewise exposing my own Judgement to the just Censure of the World. Wherefore, Sir, thinking by our late Discourse about Poland, that nothing could be new to you, but what was either very remote or very ancient; I will endeavour only to give what I know of the Origin and Extent of the Great Duchy of Lithuania, which is that vast Tract of Land that lies between the Kingdom of Poland, and the Frontiers of Moscovy.  

Lithuania how called by the Inhabitants.  The Great Duchy of LITHUANIA, called by the Inhabitants Litwa, though subject to the King of Poland, as Scotland to the King of England, yet is a distinct Nation from this Kingdom, having different Customs, a different Dialect, and particular Privileges, though one Diet serves them both. It lies between 
It's present Bounds.  Moscovy on the East, Livonia, the Baltic Sea, and part of Moscovy to the North; Samogitia, Prussia and Podlachia to the West; and Russia, Volhynia and Podolia towards the South. It extends near ninety Germane Miles in length, that is, from the Borders of the Palatinate of Lublin to the Confines of Livonia, and about eighty in breadth from the River Niemen to the Nieper. In the time of 
Ancient Extent.  its Great Duke Vitoldus it was of much larger Extent, for than it reached from the Euxine Sea to almost all along the Baltic.  

Soil and Products.  This Province is a flat and Champain Country, formerly all overrun with Woods, and of which a great Number still remain: Yet what with the Industry of the Inhabitants, and the Peace they have enjoyed ever since Sigismond the First's time, it is now very fruitful, and produces all sorts of Grain; as likewise affords great quantities of Honey, Pitch▪ Tar and Timber, with good store of Fish and Flesh: Nevertheless the Air is generally unhealthy, which occasions many places to be little inhabited, and some quite Desert.  

Union with Poland, and Privileges.  This great Duchy was only begun to be united to Poland by Jagello, in the Year 1386; for though that Union was afterwards renewed at Grodno in the Year 1413, yet Lithuania still retained its own proper Dukes till the Year 1501, when the great Duke Albert was chosen King of Poland, by whose means this Country became absolutely under the Dominion of that Crown, and which was afterwards confirmed by a Diet held at Lublin in 1569, under the Reign of Sigismundus Augustus, where it was agreed that Lithuania should enjoy its own peculiar Laws and Privileges, and be constituted a part of the Polish Commonwealth; insomuch that nothing of Importance was for the future to be transacted therein, without the voluntary Concurrence of these States.  

Division.  This Country consists of two Parts, viz. 

1. Lithuania properly so called; and,  
2. Lithuanic, or White- Russia.   Both which are divided into several Palatinates, and those again into Districts; and all of them may be properly termed Dutchies, each having formerly had its peculiar Duke.  

Arms.  The Arms or Standard of Lithuania are, Party per Pale, Gules and Azure: In the former a Horse in full career Argent, with a Warrior insiding Proper, brandishing a Sword over his head. And in the second the Virgin Mary with our Saviour in her Arms, surrounded by a Glory.  
Before I proceed to a Topographical Description of this State, I hope a short Account of the Origin of Lithuania, with the Lives and most remarkable Actions of the several Dukes, and Great Dukes of that Duchy, Samogitia, etc. may not be unacceptable, which are as follows.  

Lithuania, whence so called.  Lithuania, as Guagnini thinks, took its Name from this Occasion. When the first Prince thereof Palaemon left Italy, on account of Nero's Tyranny, he together with several of his Countrymen, fled, by a long Voyage, into these Parts: Where after some time having been saluted Prince by the Inhabitants thereof, he called their Country after the Name of his own, La Italia; which in process of time, by mixing with the Idiom of those Barbarians, might (as he says) have degenerated into Lithuania. Others will have it to be so named from the Latin word Littus a Shoar, because, say they, this Prince settled along the Shoar of the Baltic Sea before 
Different Opinions.  he descended into Lithuania. To confirm this Prince's Expedition into this Country, there are several Italian and Latin words intermixed with its present Language. As likewise most of the Noble Families have great similitude with the Roman Names, though the Vulgar sort are altogether Sclavonian. Notwithstanding this Assertion, Hartknoch, with several others, positively affirm, that this Country had its Name from Littuo, one of the Alani, a certain Duke therefore long before Palaemon's Voyage: So that from Littuo Alanus they called his Country Littualania, which afterwards was contracted to Lithuania.  

Palamon.  Palaemon first Duke of Lithuania being descended from the Roman Patricii, after having undergon great Dangers, and effected many glorious Erterprises, died peaceably, leaving three Nephews Borcus, Cunossus and Spera, all which separately succeeded him in his Dominions.  

Borcus.  Borcus took for his Share part of Samogitia, where he built a Castle on the River Juria, a Branch of the Niemen, and called it after his own Name, and that of the River whereon it stood, Jurburg, which continues even at this day.  

Cunossus.  Cunossus extending his Dominion a different way, built Kunossow another Castle, call it after his own Name, and which remains to this day.  

Spera.  Spera likewise built a Castle near the River Swenta, where he began his Reign.  
At length Borcus and Spera dying, Cunossus seized on both their Dominions; but soon after died also, and left two Sons, Kyernus and Gybutus; whereof  

Kyernus.  Kyernus settled in Lithuania, and built the Castle Kyernow, which he made the Place of his Residence; and  

Gybutus.  Gybutus resided in Samogitia, which he likewise governed. Both these Brother's joining together, made huge Devastations in Russia, and carried away great Booty; but upon their return home, found Samogitia served the like Sauce by the Livonians: To revenge which, they forthwith entered Livonia, and burnt and plundered all that Country wherever they came.  
Kyernus' dying, was succeeded in Lithuania 
Zivibundus. Muntwil.  by his Son Zivibundus, and Gybutus in Samogitia by his Son Muntwil; which last having reigned but little, died and left his Son  

Uikint.  Vikint to succeed him in Samogitia; but  

Zivibundus.  Zivibundus lived a great while after, and proved no small Victor over the Russians and Tartars: for being willing to shake off the Russian Yoke, he sent his Brother Wikinti 
Erdzivil.  Erdzivil to invade that Country; who so far succeeded as to take the City and Castle of Novogrodec, and to fix the Seat of a Duchy there: And after proceeding further, he built the strong Castle of Grodno on the River Niemen. Then he descended into Podlachia, where he took several Towns, and soon reduced all that Province. Afterwards he conquered Kurdassus' Prince of the Tartars, at a Town called Mozera, near the River Okuniowka. This Erdzivil, after many Heroic Actions, and succeeding his Brother Zivibundus, died and left two Sons, Mingailus and Algimuntus, and divided his Dominions between them.  

Algimuntus.  Algimuntus chose for his part Samogitia; and  

Mingailus.  Mingailus ruled over Lithuania and Polocz; which last Country he took from the Russians, and likewise extended his Dominion over all the Duchy of Novogrodec. This Duke died, and left two Sons, Skirmunt and Ginvil.  

Skirmunt.  Skirmunt having performed his Father's Obsequies, entered upon the Government of Lithuania, with the Duchy of Novogrodec. And  

Ginvil.  Ginvil by natural Right seized upon Polocz; which having governed for some time, he died and left to his Son  

Boris.  Boris, who ruled a great while in Polocz, and built a famous Church there with Brick, calling it Sancta Sophia. He likewise founded several other famous Edis●●ces, with the Town and Castle of Borissow upon the River Beresina. To him succeeded his Son  

Basilius Rechwold.  Basilius Rechwold, who lived to a great Age, and left behind him a Son called Hlebus, and a Daughter named Poroskavia.  

Hlebus and Poroskavia.  Hlebus survived his Father but a little while, and  
Poroskavia wholly devoted herself to the Greek Religion; but afterwards went to Rome where she died, and was Canonised for a Saint. Now to return to the Dukes of Lithuania.  
Skirmunt obtained great Conquests over the Tartars and Russians, and dying, left his Uncle  

Kukovoitus.  Kukovoitus to succeed him in Lithuania and Samogitia; who having governed a good while, died, and left his Dominions to his Son-in-Law  

Giedrussus.  Giedrussus who had married his Daughter Poiata. This Duke dying, left for his Successor his Son  

Ringolt.  Ringolt, who having performed his Father's Funeral-Rites after the Pagan manner, entered upon the Government of Lithuania and Samogitia. Against this Duke the Russians, joined ●●y the Tartars, marched with great fury to reduce him to pay Tribute; but he timely opposing them with equal Force, gave them a signal Overthrow near Mohilna on the River Niemen. At length this Ringolt, famous likewise for several other Victories, died and left his Dominions to his Son  

Mindog, 1240.  Mindog, or Mendog, in the Year 1240, who had various Conflicts with the Dukes of Smolensko and Volhynia, both which at last he totally subdued. He likewise fought several Battles with Boleslaus the chaste King of Poland, and Daniel Emperor of Moscovy, in most of which the Christians were worsted with great slaughter. He frequently made Incursions into Masovia, Dobrina, Cujavia, etc. and returned with great Booty. He also had bloody Wars with the Teutonic Knights of Prussia and Livonia: But at length in the Year 1252, being over-persuaded by the then Great Master Henricus de Zalcza, he gave up all his Dominions to that Order, in acknowledgement of several Honours and Services done him, and moreover consented to turn Christian, and afterwards sent to Rome to pay his Devoir to that See. Whereupon Innocent IV. deputed his Brother Heinderic to consecrate him King. But whether it were that Mindog repented the loss of his Dominions, or for any other Cause, it is certain that he refused to receive this Nuncio; and the very same Year, together with all his Country, returned to their former Idolatry. Nevertheless 
Acknowledged King.  the Teutonic Knights suffered him to continue King, and under him, in conjunction with the Lithuanians, Samogitians, etc. invaded Masovia, and made great Havoc of that Country. But afterwards Mendog being unmindful any farther of the Civility of those Knights, turned his Arms against their Country, destroying most of their Cities, and returning with great Spoils.  
Next Mendog having gathered together a great Army, and being likewise assisted by Swarno Duke of Russia, marched against Semovitus Duke of Masovia, whom together with his Son Conrade, he surprised in his Palace of Jasdow; where Swarno struck off Semovitus his Head with his own hand; but Conrade was preserved by Mendog, and afterwards ransomed by his Countrymen. Soon after this the Lithuanians and Russians having made great Devastations in Masovia, retired with the Spoils and Captives into their several Countries. The next Year the same People not being content with their former Eruptions, marched again into Masovia; but scarce finding any thing left to prey upon by reason of their last Year's Work, they only burnt and plundered a House belonging to the Archbishop of Gnesna, and so returned home.  
At length Heaven thought fit to favour the Polish Christians, by taking away King Mindog, who was murdered by his Nephew 
K. Mindog murdered.  Stroinat, and his Son-in-Law Dowmant, in the Year 1263.  

Stroinat, 1263.  Stroinat begun his Reign in the Year 1263, by the murder of his Brother Towcivil Duke of Polocz; but not long afterwards Woisalk Son of Mendog, though then a Russian Monk, being mindful of his Father's Death, deprived him also of Life, and immediately seized on his Dominions.  

Woisalk, 1264.  Woisalk took upon him only the Title of Duke, and began his Government with frequent Eruptions into Poland, Mascovia and Prussia: But in the Year 1267, endeavouring to subdue Russia, he was circumvented by Leo Duke thereof, (who built Leopol) and slain in the Monastery of Wrowsko.  

Great Dukes of Lithuania.  With him the Family of the Dukes of Lithuania being extinct, Vtenus, or Vcienus, 
Utenus.  descended from the Kitauri, Princes in that Country, was unanimously elected first Great Duke of Lithuania and Samogitia; who having had divers Wars with the Russians and Prussians, died, and left his Dominions to his Son  

Swintorohus.  Swintorohus, who reigning but little, though very well, died, and left behind him his Son  

Germontus.  Germontus, who ruled also a very little while, and was succeeded by his Son  

Trahus.  Trahus, who governed well both in War and Peace for some time, and built a Town and Castle after his own Name. This Great Duke left behind him five Legitimate Children, viz. Narimundus, Dowmantus, Holsanus, Giedrutus, and Troidenus, who all separately succeeded their Father in his Dominions.  

Narimundus.  Narimundus the Eldest had for his part the Great Duchy of Lithuania, with Samogitia; both which he had a Right to by the Prerogative of his Birth. He translated the Ducal Seat from Novogrodec to Kiernow. His first Wars were in conjunction with his Brothers upon Poland, Russia, Masovia and Prussia. Then he declared War against his Brother Dowmant for taking away his Wife, whom he soon recovered, and drove his Brother out of his Dominions; who flying to the Russians of Polocz, was universally received for their Prince.  
This Duke is recorded, in the Russian Annals, to have been the first Inventor of the Lithuanian Arms; which are in a Field Gules, a Person armed Cap-a-pe, Sables, riding full speed on a Horse Argent, and flourishing a Sword over his head of the third. To him succeeded his Brother Troidenus; but first an Account of the other Brothers.  

Dowmant.  Dowmant had for his Share the District of Cosnia, where he built the Castle of Vcian.  

Holsanus.  Holsanus, the third Brother, was allotted his Division beyond the River Wilia towards the East.  

Giedrutus.  Giedrutus, or Giedrotus, the fourth Brother, built a Castle upon a Lake, calling it after his own Name, and where he fixed the Seat of his Duchy. Whose Descendants are famous even to this day.  

Troidenus.  The fifth Brother Troidenus, succeeded Narimundus in Lithuania and Samogitia; who having gathered together an Army of about 30000 Men, divided them into three Parts; one whereof he sent against Masovia, and the other two against the Teutonick Knights in Prussia; where having destroyed divers Towns, he returned with a great Booty of Captives and Cattle. The same Year Cujavia was overrun by the Lithuanians. Some small time after which, Dowmant Prince of Polocz, being provoked to see his younger Brother on his Father's Throne, hired three Rustics to murder him as he went into a Bath; which they effected. But Dowmant marching with a formidable Army to take possession of Lithuania, was met and vanquished by  

Rimunt.  Rimunt Son to Troidenus; who thereupon succeeded his Father for a while: but afterwards calling a Diet at Kiernow, he publicly renounced his Right, and retired to a Monastical Life, constituting  

Vithenes, 1281.  Vithenes, of the Family of the Kitauri, descended of the Roman Princes, Great Duke. This Prince was a Person of a brave and warlike Spirit. Wherefore Rimunt, when it was demanded of him, Why he put by the Families of his Uncles, Giedrutus and Holsanus? answered, Because there were none but Children among them, when a Prince of Lithuania ought to correspond with the Arms of that Country, invented by his Uncle Narimund, which were a Warrior on Horseback, armed Cap-a-pe, and posting to subdue his Enemies. This Great Duke Vithenes began his Reign in the Year 1281. The Year following he invaded the Palatinate of Lublin, and continued destroying it for fifteen days together; till at length Lescus the Black, King of Poland, being animated thereto by a Vision, met and fought him between the Rivers Narew and Niemen, where the latter gained a signal Victory. In testimony whereof he founded a Parochial Church at Lublin, and dedicated it to St. Michael the Archangel.  

1287.  In the Year 1287, the Lithuanians, Prussians, and Samogitians, made a Descent upon Dobrina; and surprising the Capital City thereof on Sunday, when its Inhabitants were busied at Devotion, killed and carried away great Numbers of them into Slavery.  

1289.  Afterwards in 1289, the Lithuanians, to the number only of 8000, invaded a part of Prussia, burning, kill, and destroying wherever they came; but before the Country could make head against them, they were retired with great Spoils. To requite which, next Year the Prussians marched into Lithuania, where they killed and took vast numbers of the Inhabitants, as likewise possessed themselves, under the Conduct of the Commendador of Koningsberg, of the strong Castle Merabde. Afterwards Memer, great Master of Prussia, entered Lithuania with a formidable Army, and entirely destroyed two Districts.  
Not long after this Vithenes invaded Cujavia, and burnt and destroyed all the Country about Bressici, and likewise carried away great Numbers into Captivity.  

1293.  In the Year 1293, Conradus Stange, Commendador of Ragneta, took the Castle of Mindog in Lithuania; which Vithenes soon requited by entering Prussia, and destroying it eighty days together.  

1294.  Afterwards in 1294, Vithenes, with a Body only of 1800 Horse, marching through Woods and By-roads, surprised a great Concourse of People met in the Collegiate Church of Lanschet, whereof the greatest part he killed, and the others, consisting chiefly of ecclesiastics, he carried away for Slaves. The Church he robbed, and those that fled he stifled by firing all the House around them. After which marching about the Country, he drove away all their cattle; but upon his return, meeting with Casimir Palatine of Lanschet, he was bravely opposed for a while, till Numbers supplied the defect of Valour, and he entirely routed the Christians near So●●aczow; which having effected, he returned peaceably into his Country.  
This Vithenes had a Master of the Horse named Gediminus, who being of a haughty and ambitious Temper, conspired, together with the Great Duchess, to take away his Master's Life, which in a short time he brought about; and having married his Princess, he seized upon the Crown.  

Gedeminus. 1300.  Gedeminus became Great Duke of Lithuania in the Year 1300; in the beginning of whose Reign the Prussian and Livonian Knights, having got together a numerous Army, invaded Samogitia, which they soon overrun, burning and destroying wherever they came, and taking the strong Castle of Kunossow by Assault, wherein they made Prisoner the Grand General of Lithuania. The Year following Gedeminus, to revenge these insupportable Injuries, having raised a considerable Body of his own Subjects, together with the Assistance of the Russians and Tartars, marched directly against the Teutonic Knights; when meeting them near the River Okmiena, both Armies came to Blows, and so continued for several Hours, till at length the Samogitians forsaking the Knight's side, came over to Gedeminus; whose Strength thereby being greatly augmented, as that of his Enemies weakened, he fell furiously in among them, and soon put them to flight. This Victory being thus luckily obtained, Gedeminus prosecuted it into the very heart of Prussia, where he found nothing able to withstand him, except only the two Castles of Ragneta and Cilza; but which nevertheless he took in a short time. Afterwards having made a miserable havoc in that Country, as also totally regained his Duchy of Samogitia, he returned peaceably home.  

1304.  In the Year 1304, this Great Duke having a Quarrel with some of the Russian Princes, made great Preparations against them; when marching forthwith into Russia, he first met and fought Vlodomirus Duke of Volhynia, whom he slew, and routed his whole Army. Then he bent his force against Leo Duke of Luceoria, whom he also vanquished, and took his chief City Lutzko: both which Princes being thus defeated, made him absolute Master of all Volhynia. Next Spring, being tired out with Idleness, he carried his Arms against Stanislaus Duke of Kiovia, whom he overthrew, together with several Princes his Neighbours that came to assist him. With this Victory Gedeminus being not a little encouraged, proceeded and took most of the Cities and Towns of Russia; when after having completed a glorious Conquest, he returned Triumphantly into his own Country.  
Afterwards Gedeminus going to hunt about five Miles beyond the River Wilia, occasionally built a Castle there near a Lake, and a City, naming it Troki, whither he then translated 
Troki built.  his Court from Kicrnow. After this, in the Year 1305, Gedeminus going a Hunting again towards the East, after various Fortune became greatly fatigued with that sport. Whereupon, Night drawing on, he was forced to take up a Lodging upon a Mountain, then called Krzyunagora, now Turzagoria or Lissa; where soon falling asleep, he dreamt that he saw and heard roar a huge Iron Wolf, which had above a hundred Wolves of the same Mettle in his Belly, which roared likewise after an amazing manner: whereat being extremely frighted, he waked, and next Morning put this Dream to his Courtiers to expound; when every one having delivered his Opinion a different way, at last a Pagan Priest named Ledzieiko (said to have been found in an Eagles' Nest) whose Practice was to foretell Futurities, expounded it thus: The Iron Wolf (quoth he) denotes a strong City, and the other Wolves in his Belly a formidable Multitude of Inhabitants. Hereupon he immediately advises Gedeminus to build a fortified City and Castle there. Whence this Priest came to have the Name of Radzivil, that is, A Counsellor to build Vilna. From this Person's Family have descended a great many famous Heroes, who have all sufficiently distinguished themselves both in times of Peace and War. Gedeminus being easily moved by these Persuasions, forthwith erected two Castles near that Place, one on a high Hill, and the other in 
Vilna built.  a Plain; adding moreover a City called Vilna, from the River Wilia, running by it; which is now very populous, and Capital of that Great Duchy; to which City he not long after transferred his Residence from Troki.  

1306.  In 1306, the Lithuanians having had Intelligence that the Poles were lulled in Sloth and Security, marched through Woods and By-roads into Lower Poland, where they burned and plundered Kalisch, with several other Cities and Towns, killing the old People and Children, and carrying the others away Captive. The same Year Henry de Pleczko, a Saxon, Great Master of the Teutonic Order in Prussia, surprised and took the Castle of Gartin in Samogitia, and put all the Lithuanians, found therein, to the Sword. They likewise proceeded in this War by help of the Germans; and after having totally destroyed the District of Karsovin, returned with great Numbers of Spoils and Captives into Prussia.  

1307.  In 1307, the Lithuanians made an Irruption into Siradia and Kalisch, where doing a great deal of Mischief, they suddenly returned into their own Country.  

1308.  In 1308, Olgerdus, Son of Gedeminus, marched with a great Army into Prussia, where he made havoc with Fire and Sword wherever he came, carrying off likewise great Booty. These Favours the Lithuanians and Prussians did frequently and alternatively for one another within the space of few years. In 1315, the Lithuanians surprised the Territory 
1315.  of Dobrina, where they made great Devastations, and likewise took the City of that Name, and burnt and plundered it. In 1322, 
1322.  they likewise entered Livonia, laying all waist for many Miles together. In the same Year, in Wintertime, David, Starosta of Gartin, not being discouraged by Cold, destroyed that Country up as far as Raval, carrying away great Spoils and many Prisoners. Afterwards, in the same Winter, they took the Castle of Memel, and also entered Prussia, and killed the Comendador of Capion in a set Battle. David of Gartin likewise invaded Masovia at the same time, and entirely ruined a great many Towns and Villages.  

1323.  In 1323, the Lithuanians came clandestinely upon Dobrina again, and did a great deal of Damage there. In the following Year the Starosta of Gartin entered Masovia again near Ploczko, wherein he destroyed and burnt above one hundred and thirty Villages, thirty Towns, and carried away about four thousand Captives; whilst another Army made a Descent upon Livonia, and served that Country after the like manner.  

1325.  In 1325, Ann Daughter to Gedeminus married Casimir, Son to Vladislaus King of Poland, by which all that had been formerly taken from the Polanders was restored, and a Peace concluded between those two Nations.  
Afterwards, at the Siege of the Castle of Fribourg, belonging to the Teutonic Knights in Samogitia, this Great Duke Gedeminus received a Wound with an Arrow which cost 
His Death.  him his Life. This Prince had seven Sons, Viz. 

Montividus,  
Narimundus,  
Olgerdus,  
Keijstutus,  
Koriatus,  
Jawnutus,  
and Lubartus,   with some Daughters, one of which was married as before. Among these Sons, he divided his Dominions while he lived; giving to  

Montividus.  Montividus his eldest, Kyernow and Slonim, with the Territories thereunto belonging. To  

Narimundus.  Narimundus his Conquests, and other Acquisitions in Russia. On  

Olgerdus.  Olgerdus he bestowed Krewo, and all from thence to Beresina. To  

Keijstutus.  Keijstutus he gave Samogitia, Troki, Witebsko, etc. To  

Koriatus.  Koriatus the City of Novogrodec, with its Territories. But on his Beloved  

Jawnutus.  Jawnutus he conferred the Metropolis of Lithuania, Vilna, as also Osmian and Braslaw, together with the supreme Command over all his Brother's Dominions.  

Lubartus.  The youngest Son Lubartus had no share with his Brothers, because by his Marriage with the Duke of Russia's Daughter, in his Father's Life-time, he had obtained the Succession to that Duchy.  
Among these Brothers, Olgerdus and Keijstutus being most vexed to see their younger Brother Jawnutus so highly promoted, conspired together, after their Father's Death, to drive him out of Vilna; for the execution of which, they fixed a certain time: but Olgerdus happening then to be absent on some extraordinary Occasion, was forced to fail of his Appointment. Nevertheless, Keijstutus firmly adhering to his Vow, resolved to accomplish the Design alone, and consequently marching secretly towards Vilna, surprised and took it, with both its Castles. When Jawnutus, flying towards a neighbouring Wood, was there taken by Keijstutus his Men; and being brought back to his Brother, was by him ordered to be clapped in Chains. A little while afterwards Olgerdus returning, Keijstutus would have surrendered to him the Crown, as being his elder Brother; but which Olgerdus refused, saying, It was due neither to his Fortune nor Merit, and therefore he would not pretend to deserve it by Birth. But at length they both agreed to divide those Dominions between them, and Vilna, with the supreme Authority, fell to Olgerdus; but nevertheless, they both bound themselves by Oath to entrench upon neither's Dominions. To their Brother Jawnutus they yielded the Palatinate of Braslaw in Russia.  

Olgerdus.  Olgerdus, being thus possessed of the Throne, began his Reign with invading Prussia and Livonia, where the Teutonic Knights did not dare to oppose him; so that having overrun all those Countries, and loaded his Army with Spoils, he returned triumphantly to Lithuania, where he sacrificed the Captive Knights to his Father's Ghost whom they had killed. The same Year Olgerdus marched silently against the Marquisate of Brandenburg, which he destroyed and plundered up as far as Frankfurt, and all along the Banks of the River Oder.  
Next he drove the Tartars out of Podolia, 
Caminiec built.  about which time Caminiec was built by his Brother's Sons. Afterwards Janowitz, Czar of Muscovy, being puffed up with his great Power, sent to Olgerdus, then lying sick of a Fever at Witebsko, That before a Month were at an end, he would make him such Visit as should fright him into an Ague. To which haughty Message Olgerdus only returned, That since he knew his Mind, he would prevent his Journey, and wait on him at Moscow. Whereupon leaping out of his Bed, he exposed his Life to his Honour, (but which, as it happened, did well enough, for he recovered in few days) and getting speedily together a considerable Army, he marched forthwith into Moscovy, laid Siege to Moscow, and took it, together with the baffled Czar, whom he forced, before he left him, to agree to a dishonourable Peace, and leave him in possession of great part of his Empire. After which he reduced the major part of Russia, which he joined to his Dominions, they having formerly been only wont to pay Tribute to Lithuania.  
This Prince had by Mary his Wife twelve Sons, of which Jagello and Skiergelo only were Great Dukes of Lithuania after him. His Brother Keijstutus had six Sons, whereof Vitoldus and Sigismundus came to be Great Dukes of Lithuania.  

Jagello 1381.  Olgerdus dying in the Year 1381, Jagello ascended his Throne with consent of his Uncle Keijstutus. This Duke had a favourite Courtier, one Voidilus, a Man of an obscure Descent, and whom he had raised from his Baker to be his Secretary and prime Minister. This Person he affected so dearly, that he gave him his Sister in Marriage, which was highly displeasing to his Uncle, who protested earnestly against it: whereupon this subtle Upstart, fearing lest Keijstutus might one day or other put him out of favour with his Prince, he prevailed with Jagello to look upon his Uncle as his Enemy, and to proceed against him accordingly; which Jagello, being young, was easily persuaded to do: therefore clapping up a secret Truce with the Teutonic Knights, with whom he was before in War, he made all imaginable Preparations against his Uncle: which Keijstutus being informed of, was immediately alarmed at, till his Son Vitoldus quieted his Suspicions, by persuading him that Jagello would never attempt any such thing: but at length Jagello marching against the Russians of Polocz, which were then his Uncle's Subjects, his design was passed all doubt; and therefore Keijstutus got together what Forces he could upon so short a Warning, and invaded his Nephew's Territories, where he took Vilna, and would have proceeded, had it not been for his Son Vitoldus, who still continued Jagello's Friend. But afterwards Keijstutus being busied in subduing the Traitor Koributh Jagello, not only retook Vilna, but also besieged and gained Troki by Treachery; which Keijstutus marching to recover, he, together with his Son Vitoldus, was betrayed into Jagello's hands by means of his Brother Skergelo, who pretended to bring these two Princes amicably together; but Jagello having once got his Uncle into his Clutches, detained him, and threw him into Chains, and afterwards ordered him to be strangled in his Prison at Kreva. His Cousin German Vitoldus he ungratefully kept a long while in Bonds at Vilna; who afterwards being removed to Kreva, and a time appointed for his Death, escaped by means of his Wife, who always having free Access to him, by exchanging Habits with one▪ of her Servants, got her Husband away in her own. Hence he fled to his Kinsman John Duke of Masovia; but not thinking himself secure there, he afterwards went into Prussia, where at first he was reproved by the Knights of the Teutonic Order for having recourse to them only in time of Adversity; but afterwards he was more courteously received, and promised their Assistance to re-establish him in his paternal Dominions. Whereupon, together with the Samogitians, who favoured Vitoldus his Interest, they made an Inroad into Lithuania, and took Troki; but they were afterwards nevertheless forced to surrender it. At length Jagello by secret Messages, recalled his Kinsman out of Prussia; and upon his Promise to be faithful to him, settled him in his Hereditary Estate. A little while after this, the Throne of Poland becoming vacant by Lewis of Hungary's Death, Jagello was invited thither to accept that Crown under certain Conditions, which may appear more at large in his Life among those Kings.  
Whilst Jagello was thus absent in Poland with great Numbers of his Subjects, who went to wait on him into that Kingdom, the Great Masters of Prussia and Livonia finding a fit opportunity, entered Lithuania, destroying with Fire and Sword as far as the Castle of Lucom in Russia, which also they took, and having furnished with all necessary Defence, placed in it Andrew Jagello's Brother, upon whose Request this Expedition had been undertaken. About the same time Swetoslaus, Duke of Smolensko, invaded Russia, and took Mscislaw and several other Places by force; both which Actions Jagello being soon informed of, immediately dispatched away his Brother Skirgelo, and Kinsman Vitoldus, into Lithuania; who finding the Teutonic Army retired, forthwith laid Siege to the Castle of Lucom; which having taken, they proceeded to Mscislaw, which they likewise took, and killed Swetoslaus, who was in possession of it. Afterwards having recovered all the other revolted Dominions which had sided with Duke Andrew, they made him Prisoner; and carrying him into Poland, he was ordered by his Brother Jagello to be cast into a noisome Dungeon, whence, upon the request of the good-natured Vitoldus, he was not long after delivered.  
After Jagello's Death, though there were several Great Dukes of Lithuania; yet seeing they were Tributary to the Kings of Poland, and Lithuania itself was afterwards united to Poland under one Form of Government, I need not insist any longer upon the Succession of its Dukes, since what past remarkable in their Time, is comprehended in the History of the Kings of the Jagellonic Family, who reigned in Poland from Jagello's time to the late King Michael Wiesnowiski; therefore I will proceed to enter upon the Geographical Description of this great Duchy.  
The two Provinces of Lithuania contain these Palatinates, Viz.  

I. PROVINCE.  Lithuania Proper contains the Palatinates of 

Vilna,  
Troki, and  
Briescia or Polesia.    

II. PROVINCE.  Lithuanic-Russia contains the Palatinates of 

Novogrodec.  
Mscislaw.  
Vitebsko or Witebsko.  
Minski, and  
Polocz.    
Lithuanic-Russia is commonly called Russia-Alba, or White- Russia, either because its Hills are generally covered with Snow, and which lasts longer there than in any other Parts of this Country; or else by reason that the Animals bred there are generally inclined to be white, though in other Countries the same Species be of another Colour. Both these Provinces abound with all manner of Necessaries, besides several Merchandizes, part of which they transport by the River Duna to Riga in Livonia, and part by the River Niemen to Koningsberg in Prussia.  

I. Palatinate.  The first Palatinate of Lithuania Proper is that of  
Vilna, whose Palatin is chief Governor of the City of that Name. This Palatinate comprehends three large Districts, which are The Districts of 

Osmian,  
Bratislaw or Braslaw, &  
Wilkomitz.    
In all which are the several Cities and Towns of 

Vilna 

Cap.  
Bish.    
Osmian,  
Bratislaw or Braslaw.  
Wilkomitz,  
Ikaznia, and  
Drizwiatz.    

Cities and Towns of  The chief City of all which, and Metropolis of the Great Duchy of Lithuania, is  

Vilna.  Vilna, called also Vilenski by the Inhabitants, and Wildaw or Die Wild by the Germans, and is situated near the Conflux of the Rivers Wilia and Wiln, from whence it has its Name. It lies about 130 Polish Miles from Cracow to the North-East, 48 from Riga to the North, 70 from Warsaw, and a hundred from Smolensko to the East. It is a large and very populous City, well fortified with two Castles, whereof one is built in a Plain, and the other on a Hill; the former washed by the River Wilia, and the latter by the Wiln. The first of these Rivers is large and navigable, whereby the Inhabitants transport Merchandizes to Dantzic; and the other small and inconsiderable. The Houses of this City are generally low and mean, being most built with Wood, except some belonging to the Gentry, others to Foreign Merchants, and several public Edifices, which are all either of Stone or Brick. Of the two Castles, that on a Hill is very ancient, and almost ruined; but the other is a Pile of beautiful modern Architecture. The Churches here are all of Stone, both those belonging to the Roman and Russian Persuasions. The Cathedral stands in the Lower Castle, wherein lies the Body of St. Casimir, canonised by Leo X.▪ in a large Silver Tomb of great Value. Here also is a very large Bell, like to that of Cracow, which requires above four and twenty strong Men to ring it. Within this Castle is the Archiepiscopal See of the Metropolitan of Russia. Among the other public Edifices is the Great Duke's Palace, in which is a famous Guard-Chamber, furnished with all sorts of Arms; and about two English Miles from this City stands another Ducal Palace, named from its Situation Rudnick, that is, Near the Water. This Palace is entirely built with Wood, and beautified with a Park, pleasant Gardens, Orchards, etc. Next comes the Academy of this City, founded by King Stephen in the Year 1579, and erected into a University by Gregory XIII. the same Year, at the Request of the Founder Valerian Bishop of Vilna. In this University are six Professors of Divinity, five of Philosophy, four of Laws, and seven of Human Learning. Among the Merchant's Houses, there is one particularly neat, erected by the Moscovite Company for the Repository of their Furs, Ermines, and other rich Merchandizes brought from Moscow. Here are also many other fair Edifices, which I pass by for brevity's sake. In this City Guns of all sorts are cast, and likewise divers other Warlike Instruments of excellent Workmanship made. Vilna has the Honour to have a Tribunal for all Lithuania. The Moscovites found means to make themselves Masters of this City in the Year 1655, but were soon forced to surrender it to the Poles, who are at present in possession of it.  

Osmian.  Osmian, a wooden Town, Capital of its District, about seven Miles from Vilna; to which belongs a large Jurisdiction, with several eminent Towns.  

Bratislaw.  Bratislaw or Braslaw, a Timber-built City, situate on a large Lake, with a Castle founded on a Rock. This Place lies about twenty Miles from Vilna with a considerable Jurisdiction.  

Wilkomitz.  Wilkomitz, a Wood-built Town upon the River Swienta. Here is kept a Court of Justice to try the Causes of the Gentry. To this District belongs a very large Jurisdiction, in which are several considerable Towns belonging to the King, Bishops, and Gentry.  

Ikaznia.  Ikaznia, a Town built with Wood near a River of the same Name. It lies about three Polish Miles from Bratislaw.  

Drizwiatz.  Drizwiatz, a Town built on a Lake near a River of the same Name, and about five Miles from Bratislaw.  

Senators of Vilna.  The Senators of this Palatinate are only The Palatin, and Castellan of Vilna.  
For it must here be observed, that there are no Minor Castellans in all Lithuania.  

It's Arms.  The Arms or Standard of this Palatinate are of four sorts: The first of the Palatinate itself, which are Argent and Azure; in the former the Arms of Lithuania, and in the latter two Pillars of the first. Besides these, each District has its Arms, which are, First, of Osmian, those of Vilna differing only in changing the Columns or Pillars to erected Swords. That of Bratislaw a Field Gules, with no Charge. Thirdly, That of Wilkomitz the same with that of the Palatinate, changing only the Pillars to the Image of St. Michael.  

II. Palatinate.  The Second Palatinate of Lithuania Proper, is that of  
Troki, which has in it these four large Districts, Viz. The Districts of 

Grodno,  
Lida,  
Cowno, and  
Vpita.    
In all which are these principal Cities and Towns, Viz. 

Troki, Cap.  
Grodno,  
Lida,  
Cowno, and  
Vpita.    

Cities and Towns of  The chief City of all which is  

Troki.  Troki, otherwise called Troccum or Trocum, built with Wood, and seated on a Point of Land that shoots out into a Lake, and which lies about four Miles from Vilna to the West. This City had formerly a strong Wall to defend it, but which was long since destroyed by the Prussian Knights; but yet it still has a Castle founded in the Lake, and sufficiently fortified both by Nature and Art. Gedeminus, Great Duke of Lithuania, laid the first Foundation of this City, which was the Ducal Seat before it came to be translated to Vilna. The Moscovites stormed, burnt, and pillaged this Place in the Year 1655.  

Grodno.  Grodno, a Timber-built City on the River Niemen or Cronon, having a strong Castle on a Rock near adjoining, founded by King Stephen, who was wont to reside here for conveniency of Hunting. Sigismond III. built a fair Bridge here over the Niemen, which is thought not to have an Equal in all Poland. The Jesuits have a College or Academy in this City for Instructing of Youth. From hence divers kinds of Merchandizes are transported from several Parts of Lithuania to Dantzic. The District of Grodno is indifferently large, having been formerly a considerable Duchy.  

Lida.  Lida, a Town, Capital of its District, built with Wood, having in it a tolerable Castle, and a Court of Justice for the Gentry.  

Cowno.  Cowno, a famous Timber-Town, though there are several Houses in it built with Stone, situate on the Conflux of the Rivers Niemen and Wilia, with a strong ancient Castle founded on a Rock.  

Upita.  Vpita, a Wood-built Town, and Capital of a very large District, wherein are several Towns.  

Senators of Troki.  The Senators of this Palatinate are The Palatin, and Castellan of Troki.  

It's Arms.  The Arms or Standard of this Palatinate are the Arms of Lithuania in a Field Azure.  

III. Palatinate.  The third Palatinate of Lithuania Proper, is that of  
Briescia or Polesia, adjoining to the Palatinate of Lublin, and partaking in all respects of the Manners thereof. It has but one very large District, which is that of Pinsko.  
This Palatinate contains these Cities and Towns, Viz.  

Briescia,  
Pinsko,  
Biala,  
Prepetus,  
Camenecia,  
Cobrinia,  
Janovia,  
Voinia,  
Rososia, and  
Vlodava.   

Cities and Towns of  The chief of all which is  

Brescia.  Brescia or Briescia, a large wooden City, built on the Confines of Lithuania, on the Banks of the River Bug, with a Timber Castle founded on a Rock, and washed by the River Muchavecz. This City is distant about twenty five Miles from Lublin, and thirty from Warsaw to the East. In it is the most famous Academy for Jews of any in Europe, whither that People resort from Italy, Germany, Moravia, Silesia, etc. not only to study, but take Degrees in that Religion. Without this City also is a Regal Palace of Modern Architecture, with variety of pleasant Gardens.  

Pinsko.  Pinsko, a Timber-built City, and indifferently large, seated on the River Perepet; which passing by divers Towns in Russia, falls into the Boristhenes. The Inhabitants of this Place are very Industrious, and make frequent Journeys into Muscovy and Germany on account of Merchandizing. They are generally of the Greek Persuasion, and have a Bishop of that Sect who resides among them.  

Biala.  Biala, famous only for a Palace built by the Dukes of the Family of Radzivil, which is now converted into a College for the Instructing of Youth.  

Prepetus.  Prepetus, a Town with an old Castle, built on the River of the same Name.  

Senators of Briescia.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, The Palatin, and Castellan. of Briescia.  

It's Arms.  The Arms or Standard of this Palatinate are the same with the former, differing only by a B in the middle.  

I. Palatinate.  The first Palatinate of Lithuanic-Russia, is that of  
Novogrodec, which is divided into two Districts, which are The Districts of Novogrodec, and Slonim.  
In both which are these principal Cities and Towns, Viz. 

Novogrodec, Cap.  
Slonim,  
Wolkowisko,  
Lacowickz,  
Mysza,  
Zlucz,  
Rozan,  
Neswitz, and  
Selecz.    

Cities and Towns of  The Capital of all which is  

Novogrodec.  Novogrodec, a large Timber-City, which formerly belonged to the second Sons of the Princes of Lithuania. Here interchangeably with the Town of Minski, is held a Parliament for the Great Duchy of Lithuania.  

Slonim.  Slonim, a wooden City, whose District was formerly a Duchy.  

Wolkowisko.  Wolkowisko, a large Town containing a Court of justice or Tribunal for the Gentry.  

Lacowickz.  Lacowickz, famous for a very fair Palace, built by a Grand General of Lithuania, and well fortified after the Modern way.  

Mysza.  Mysza, a Town with a Castle, seated by a Lake, and all surrounded by a Plain.  

Zlucz.  Zlucz, one of the largest Cities in this Country, but nevertheless is all of Wood, except only the Cathedral and Ducal Palace.  
This City had not long since a Sovereign Prince with large Territories, but he was always Tributary to Poland. It is at present in possession of the Family of Radzivil.  

Rozan.  Rozan, a well-built Town with very fair Streets.  

Neswitz.  Neswitz, where Nicholas Radzivil, surnamed the Pilgrim, has founded several noble Public Edifices; a Description whereof I have omitted for brevity's sake.  

Senators of Novogrodec.  The Senators of this Palatinate are The Palatin, and Castellan of Novogrodec.  

It's Arms.  The Standard or Arms of this Palatinate, are that of the Great Duchy in an Azure Field.  

II. Palatinate.  The Second Palatinate of Lithuanic-Russia, is that of  
Mscislaw, lying between the River Peripet to the South, and the Boristhenes to the East, in a kind of Triangular form, being, for the most part, either overrun with Woods, or overflowed with Water. What plain Land it has, is generally very fruitful. It likewise abounds with Cattle of all sorts, and great Numbers of excellent Fowl, and is divided into two very large Districts, which are The Districts of Mscislaw, and Modziria.  
In all which are these Cities and Towns, viz.  

Mscislaw, Cap.  
Modzir,  
Dambrownuna,  
Bychow,  
Kopysz,  
Sklow,  
Reczycza,  
Viszchorod,  
Strissin,  
Cleckum,  
Ouruckum,  
Homlia,  
Criczow, and  
Ostrskum.   

Cities and Towns of  The Capital of all which is  

Mscislaw.  Mscislaw, a Timbered City built on the River Sosa, with a Castle defended by Palisadoes. It lies upon the Borders of Moscovy, and therefore is strongly garrisoned. This District was formerly a Sovereignty, but it is now reduced.  

Modzir.  Modzir, a City, Capital of its District, built among the Marshes.  

Dambrownuna.  Dambrownuna, a Town with a strong Castle built upon the Confines of Moscovy, about fourteen Miles from Smolensko.  

Bychow.  Bychow, a Town with a Castle seated on the River Boristhenes, about twelve Miles from Mohilow.  

Kopysz.  Kopysz, a Town with a Castle on the Boristhenes.  

Sklow.  Sklow, a Town with a Castle on the Boristhenes, reputed to be a County, and of which the magnificent John Chodkiewil writes himself Hereditary Palatin.  

Reczycza.  Reczycza, a Town with a Castle situate on the Boristhenes.  

Viszehorod.  Viszehorod, situate upon the Boristhenes about three Miles from Kiow.  

Strissin.  Strissin, a Town and Castle on the Boristhenes.  

Senators of Mscislaw.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, The Palatin and Castellan of Mscislaw.  

It's Arms.  The Arms and Standard of this Palatinate, are the same with those of the Great Duchy, differing only in an M placed in the middle.  

III. Palatinate.  The third Palatinate of Lithuanic-Russia is that of  
Vitebsko, like the former, bordering upon the Duna towards the East, having but one large District, which is  
The District of Orsha.  
In this Palatinate are these several Cities and Towns, viz.  

Witebsko, Cap.  
Orsha,  
Mohilow,  
Czasniki,  
Sienno,  
Leplo, and  
Woroniec.   
The Capital of all which is 
Cities and Towns of   

Witebsko.  Witebsko, a Timber-built City, indifferently large, situate on the River Dwina, by which divers sorts of Merchandizes are transported from hence to Riga in Livonia. It has two large Castles well defended both by Nature and Art against the Incursions of the Moscovites, who have been often repulsed thence with considerable Loss. In this City there are always four Companies of Foot Soldiers, each consisting of 500 Men, one whereof (says Guagnini) I myself commanded for near ten Years. This Place lies about fourscore Miles from Vilna, and had formerly a Prince of its own.  

Orsha.  Orsha, a large Wooden City, defended on one side with sharp and strong Palisadoes, and on the other by the River Boristhenes, together with a Stone Castle washed by the River Orshicza. This Place lies about eighteen Miles from Witebsko.  

Mohilow.  Mohilow, a very large Market-Town much frequented by the Moscovites, whence they transmit their Firs into Poland and Germany.  

Czasniki.  Czasniki, a Wood-built Town lying on the River Vla.  

Sienno.  Sienno, a Town with a Castle, about six Miles from Czasniki.  

Leplo.  Leplo, a Town with a Castle well defended, situate on a Lake, and about seven Miles from Czasniki.  

Woroniec.  Woroniec, a Town with a Castle lying upon the River Vsacza, and about three Miles from Polocz.  

Senators of Vitebsko.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, The Palatin and Castellan of Vitebsko.  

It's Arms.  The Arms or Standard of this Palatinate, are the Arms of the Great Duchy, in a Field Vert.  

IV. Palatinate.  The fourth Palatinate of Lithuanic-Russia is that of  
Minski, which is divided into two Districts, viz. The Districts of Minski, and Borissow.  
In both which are these several Cities and Towns, viz.  

Minski, Cap.  
Borissow,  
Koidanow,  
Radoskowice,  
Lohoisko,  
Swislocz,  
Bobroisko,  
Odruczko,  
Smolniany, and  
Turkow.   

Cities and Towns of  The Capital of all which is  

Minski.  Minski, a large Timber-built City, with a double Wall, a strong Castle, and a very deep Ditch, with other Fortifications. It is washed by a River that turns a great many Mills. It was formerly the Custom in Russia, under whose Dominions this Palatinate was when this City was built, to fortify their principal Towns with a double Wall and two Castles. Here formerly the Diet was kept alternatively with Vilna and Novogrodeck.  

Borissow.  Borissow, a Wooden Town seated on the River Beresina, which has a Castle well fortified: It lies about forty Miles from Vilna, and has in it a good Garrison against the Incursions of the Moscovites.  

Koidanow.  Koidanow, a Town with a Castle about twenty five Miles from Vilna.  

Radoskowice.  Radoskowice, a Town with a Castle, where Sigismundus Augustus mustered above 100000 Men at once in the Year 1568.  

Lohoisko.  Lohoisko, a Town and Castle about eight Miles from Borissow.  

Swislocz.  Swislocz, a Town situate upon a River of the same Name.  

Bobroisko.  Bobroisko, a Town lying on the River Beresina.  

Odruczko,  Odruczko, a Town and Castle which formerly gave Name to a Duchy, whereof several Noble Russians had the Title.  

Senators of Minski.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, The Palatin and Castellan of Minski.  

It's Arms.  The Arms or Standard of this Palatinate are the same with Lithuania, only an M placed side-ways.  

V. Palatinate.  The fifth Palatinate of Lithuanic-Russia is that of  
Polocz, which is divided into two Districts, viz. The Districts of Polocz, and Vsacz.  
In both which are these Cities and Towns, viz.  

Polocz, Cap.  
Vsacz, or Vsalza,  
Disna,  
Drissa,  
Druha,  
Starzitia,  
and Volisia.   

Cities and Towns of  The Capital of all which is  

Polocz.  Polocz, seated on the River Duna, or Dwina. It was formerly a City very considerable, but in the Year 1562, John Basilowitz Great Duke of Moscovy took it, and carried most of its Inhabitants away Prisoners. This Place remained in the hands of the Moscovites to the Year 1579, when Stephen Batori recovered it, together with its whole Territory. It was formerly a Duchy, and subject only to its own Princes. Here at present resides a Russian Prelate. The Jesuits also have a very fair Foundation in this City built and endowed by Stephen Batori.  

Usacz.  Vsacz, distant about three Polish Miles from Polocz, and situate on a River of its own Name.  

Disna.  Disna, built on the Duna, and tolerably fortified. It lies about six Miles from Polocz, and forty from Vilna.  

Druha.  Druha, upon a River of the same Name.  

Senators of Polocz.  The Senators of this Palatinate are, The Palatin and Castellan of Polocz.  

It's Arms.  The Standard or Arms of this Palatinate, are the Arms of the Great Duchy, with a P ● sideways placed in the middle of the Coat.  
Having thus, Sir, described to you the present Extent, and chief Towns of the Great Duchy of Lithuania, it would seem requisite (as usual) to give you a particular Character of this Nation; but having a design to proceed to a second Volume of this Undertaking, where I will examine into the Genius, Manners and Customs of both Poles and Lithuanians, at present I can only take notice, that to Jagell●●'s time, being the XIV th' Century, the Lithuanian were Pagans, and worshipped many Gods, or rather Devils. First, they paid Divine Adoration to Fire (which they called in their Language Znicz, signifying sacred) and kept it always alight in some of their most famous Towns. For thi●● end they assigned several Priests, by whose Neglect, or otherwise, if ever it came to be extinguished, they were immediately beheaded. Next, they worshipped Thunder, call it in the Sclavonian Tongue Perunum. Also they had divers Groves where they prayed to tall straight Trees, which they held it Sacrilege but to touch. The Devil, (or rather the cunning Priest) it seems was so politic in those days, as to promote all these Superstitions, by frightening these Idolaters when they offered in the least to forsake them. When the Sky was clouded, they were of opinion the Sun was angry with them, and therefore used their utmost Art to appease him by Prayers, Music, etc. They likewise believed Serpents to be Gods, which were their Lares, or Domestic Deities, and therefore each Family kept one in their House, to which they daily sacrificed Milk, Fowls, and the like; and one of which if they happened at any time to offend, they looked upon it to be an Omen of Destruction to their whole Progeny. They had also a set time appointed for a Solemn Sacrifice, being about the beginning of October, when together with their Wives and Children, they feasted riotously for three days, in like manner as we have said before in Samogitia. Upon their return from the Wars they were wont to sacrifice one of the chief of their Captives with all their Booty to the Fire. They used to burn their Dead with all their richest Ornaments on, which they wore whilst living, together with one of their most faithful Servants, their Horses, Arms, Dogs, etc. whilst all their Relations and Friends brought Milk, Honey, Beer, and the like, and merrily feasted and danced about their Funeral-Pile to Music of various kinds.  
All these Pagan Superstitions and Errors Jagello, after he became Christian, in great measure abolished; to effect which, He, together with his Queen Hedwigis, the Archbishop of Gnesna, a vast number of Priests, and several other Learned Men went into Lithuania about the beginning of Lent in the Year 1387, where at Vilna he first caused the sacred Fire to be extinguished, and the place wherein it was kept to be converted into the Church of St. Stanislaus; then he proceeded to kill the Serpents, cut down the Groves, pull down their Altars, and the like, which the poor bigoted Lithuanians wondering at, cried out, How can our Gods dissemble with these wicked Christians, so far as to suffer 'em to profane their Divinities with unhallowed hands, when if we had but offered to injure them in the least, we always immediately underwent their Revenge! But at length when they perceived no Judgement to follow the supposed Sacrilege of the Poles, they unanimously acknowlegded their false Worship, and consented to be baptised, whereof about thirty thousand were brought to the Font in one day. From henceforward the Lithuanians have for the major part continued Christians, though there are yet some Idolaters among them of different Beliefs towards the Frontiers of Moscovy and Samogitia, in the great Woods, who still worship Serpents, etc. as they used to do. There are also in this Great Duchy about thirty thousand Tartars with liberty of the Turkish Religion, who have enjoyed this Privilege for some hundreds of Years, on condition that they shall send every Year twelve hundred Men to the Wars against the Turks and Tartars. These Mahometans call their Church's Meczets.   depiction of child with bear in cave. 
Page 342.  
Upon this occasion I was assured by the King himself, several Senators and other Great Men of that Kingdom; and moreover, it is the common and undisputed Report, that Children are oftentimes nourished and brought up by Bears in these Parts. They say likewise, that if a hungry He-Bear finds a Child that has been carelessly left any where, he will immediately tear it to pieces; but on the contrary, had it been a She-Bear then giving Suck, she would undoubtedly have carried it safe to her Den, and nourished it among her Cubs, which after some time might probably have been rescued from her and been taken by Hunters, as it happened in another Case of this nature in the Year 1669, which has been positively asserted to me in a Letter from his Excellency Monsieur de Cleverskerk, now Ambassador here to his Majesty King William from the States of Hollond, which Letter I thought not amiss to insert.  

A Monsieur Connor.  
Monsieur,  
JE veux satisfaire en partie à votre desir, & vous rendre conte d'un Enfant que J'ay veu à Varsovie, en l'an 1669. Me rencontrant en cette Ville de Pologne pour étre present au tems de l'Election d'un Roy, qui se devoit faire à la place du Roy Jean Casimir, qui s'étoit démis de la Couronne: Je m'informay à cette occasion de ce qu'il y avoit à voir en ce lieu, & J'ay appris, entre autres choses, qu'il se trouvoit au Fauxbourg de la Ville (qui va vers le Palais que le Roy Casimir y avoit fait batir) chez des Religieuses un Enfant Male qui avoit été nourri des Ours, ayant été pris, quêques tems auparavant, à la chasse de ces Animaux. J'allay à ce lieu pour Satisfaire ma Curiosité, & trouvay a la Porte le dit Enfant jouant dans les Sables, sous l'Auvent qui étoit devant la Maison. Il étoit, selon ma meilleure Memoire, de l'age de douze à treize ans. Quand Je l'approchay il vint sauter, comme par surprise à mon habit, & prit par la main avec beaucoup de precipitation un des boutons d'Argent que Je portois à mon Justaucorps, & approcha le Nez pour le Sentir. Puis Jl se jetta, tout d'un coup, à un coin par terre, faisant quêque bruit comme une espece d' Hurlement. J'entray dans la Maison, ou une Fille m' informa plus particulierement de lá Prise de cet Enfant; Mais comme Je n'ay point avec moy le Livre ou J'ay écrit les Observations que J'ay fait dans mes Voyages, Je ne sçaurois vous en faire le dêtail. Cette Fille appella & fit entrer, le dit Enfant, & luy montra un grand Morçeau de pain; ce que luy voyant il se jetta sur un Plancher qui étoit fait contre la muraille dans cette Chambre; Il y marcha comme à quatre pattes: Il se leva avec une grande vitesse; prit par les deux mains le pain qui luy fut presentè; le porta ainsi au nez, & se Jetta en bas faisant encore un bruit étrange comme auparavant. On m'informa qu'il ne parloit point encore des paroles, mais qu'on esperoit avec le tems luy en apprendre, d'autant qu'il avoit l'ouiè bonne: Il avoit quêques marques au visage qu'on pensoit avoir été des Egratigneures de l'Ours.  
Voilà Monsieur tout ce que ma Memoire me peut fournir d'une Particularité qu'il y à si long tems que J'ay veüe, Mais Personne ne doit trouver étrange que cela soit arriué d'autant qu'on a d'autres Exemples dans les Histories: Et on m'a informé en ce Pais, que les Tartars y font souvent des Invasions par des courses qu'ils font avec unc si grande vitesse qu'ils entrent ●●n peu de tems bien avant dans le Pais qui est ouvert, leurs chevaux étant capables de faire un tres-grand cheminsans manger ni boire; qu'étant allez jusques où ils ont proposé, la ils Etendent leur grande Troupe & prennent, comme dans les filets, toutes les Personnes qu'ils rencontrent en leur retraite, & les menent en Esclavage: qu' d ces occasions les Hommes & les Femmes tachants fuir n'ont bien souvent pas de tems de sauver leurs Enfants, & qu'ainsi celuicy peut avoir été laissé, & trovué par quêques Ours, qui sont en ces lieux de Lituanie ou de Pologne. Je suis marri, Monsieur, ne vous pouvoir pas informer & satisfaire à votre Curiosité avec plus d'exactitude: cependant, vous receurez, s'il vous plait, cette Relation comme un petit témoignage de ma bonne Volonté, comme etant,  
Ce 1, Jan. 1698. Monsieur, Votre tres-Affectionné Serviteur, J. P. Van den Brande de Cleverskerk.   

Thus in English.  
SIR,  
I Shall endeavour partly to satisfy your Request, and to give you an Account of a Boy that I saw at Warsaw in the Year 1661., who had been brought up by Bears. Coming to this City of Poland with design to be Present at the Election of a King after John Casimir, who had Abdicated the Crown, I enquired what was worth seeing in or about this Place: whereupon I was informed, among other things, that there was in the Suburbs of this City (which go towards King Casimir's Palace) in a Nunnery, a certain Male Child, who had been brought up among Bears, and who had been taken some time before at a Bear-hunting. Upon this Information I went immediately to that place to satisfy my Curiosity, where I found the aforesaid Boy playing under the Penthouse before the Nunnery Gate. His Age, as well as I remember, I guessed to be about twelve or thirteen. As soon as I came near him he leaped towards me as if surprised and pleased with my Habit. First, be caught one of my Silver Buttons in his hand with a great deal of eagerness, which he held up to his Nose to smell; Afterwards he leaped all of a sudden into a Corner, where he made a strange sort of Noise not unlike to Howling. I went into the House, where a Maidservant informed me more particularly of the Manner of his being taken. But having not with me the Book wherein I wrote my Observations in my Travels, I cannot possibly give you an exact Account of it. This Maid called the Boy in, and showed him a good large piece of Bread; which when he saw, he immediately leaped upon a Bench that was joined to the Wall of the Room, where he walked about upon all-four: After which, he raised himself upright with a great Spring, and took the Bread in his two Hands, put it up to his Nose, and afterwards leaped off from the Bench upon the Ground, making the same odd sort of Noise as before. I was told that he was not yet brought to speak, but that they hoped in a short time he would, having his Hearing good. He had some Scars on his Face, which were commonly thought to be Scratches of the Bears.  
Thus, Sir, you have all that I can remember of a Curiosity, which I saw so long time since; the Truth of which no body ought to question, since there are several parallel Examples in History; and I have been informed in this Country, that whenas the Tartars make frequent Incursions there, which they perform with such extraordinary Swiftness, that they can overrun great part of the Country in a very short time, their Horses being able to Travel a whole Day together without drawing Bit; being arrived at the proposed Place, they immediately quarter themselves in a great Circle, whereby, as it were in a Net, they take all that come within their Clutches, and carry them into Slavery. So that either the Men or Women finding themselves thus ensnared, and endeavouring to escape, have oftentimes not leisure to take care of their Infants, and therefore probably this Boy might have been left behind after the like manner, and found and born away by the Bears; Of which there are a great Number both in Lithuania and Poland. I am sorry, Sir, I cannot give you a more satisfactory Account of this matter, but I hope this will suffice for a Testimony of my good Will, and to assure you that I am,  
Jan. 1. 1697/ 8. SIR, Your most Affectionate Servant, J. P. Van den Brande de Cleverskerk.   
For another Confirmation of this Matter of fact, I have the Testimony of an authentic Author, M. Christopher Hartknoch of Passenheim in Ducal- Prussia, who writ two Books of the State of Poland. He says, that during the Reign of King John Casimir, in the Year 1669, there happened an Accident which perhaps might hardly be credited by Posterity; which was, that there were then two Boys found by a Company of Soldiers among the Bears in the Woods near Grodna; one of which, as soon as he saw the Bears assaulted, fled into the neighbouring Morass, whilst the other endeavouring likewise to escape, was taken by the Soldiers and brought to Warsaw, where he was afterwards christened by the Name of Joseph. He was about twelve or thirteen years old, as might be guest by his height, but his Manners were altogether bestial; for he not only fed upon raw Flesh, wild Honey, Crab-Apples, and such like Dainties which Bears are used to feast with, but also went, like them, upon all-four. After his Baptism he was not taught to go upright without a great deal of difficulty, and there was less hopes of ever making him learn the Polish Language, for he always continued to express his Mind in a kind of Bear-like Tone. Some time after King Casimir made a Present of him to Peter Adam Opalinski, Vice-Chamberlain of Posnan, by whom he was employed in the Offices of his Kitchen, as to carry Wood, Water, etc. but yet could he never be brought to relinquish his native Wildness, which he retained to his dying-day; for he would often go into the Woods amongst the Bears, and freely keep company with them without any fear, or harm done him, being, as was supposed, constantly acknowledged for their Fosterling.  
I might here, Sir, give you several other Accounts of this Nature, which I had related to me when I was in Poland; and I am told Mr. Gibson, a Parliament-man, has formerly seen some other Examples of this kind in that Kingdom; but by what I have already mentioned, I believe you will be sufficiently convinced, that the History of Romulus and Remus is not so fabulous as it is generally conjectured to be, and as I thought myself it was before I had been in this Country; for considering that Brutes (since Philosophers and Divines will allow them no Rational Souls) breed up their Young merely out of a Natural Instinct or Sympathy, which I need not describe here, I see no Improbability why they may not likewise bring up those of another Kind, as we have several Instances daily. But I will not insist longer upon these Philosophical Matters, nor examine here whether Examples of this nature refute or establish innate Ideas, as I have done in my Medicina Mystica, but will conclude,  
SIR, Your very Obedient Servant, B. C.   

A Chronological Table of the Succession, Reigns and Deaths of the Dukes, Governors, Princes and Kings of Poland; together with an exact reference to the Page where they are treated of.  
  Began his Reign. Reigned Years. Dved A. D. pag. I. LEchus, I.— 550 uncertain 10 II. Visimirus— Guagnini only mentions. III. XII. Woievods—   Deposed. 12 IU. Cracus— 700 — — ib. V. Lechus, II.— — — — 13 VI. Venda— 750 — — ib. VII. XII. Woievods— — — deposed 14 VIII. Lescus, I.— 760 16 776 ib. IX. Lescus, II.— 776 28 804 16 X. Lescus III.— 804 6 810 ib. XI. Popiel, I.— 810 5 815 ib. XII. Popiel, II.— 815 15 830 ib. XIII. Piastus— 830 31 861 21 XIV. Ziemovitus— 861 31 892 23 XV. Lescus, IU.— 892 21 913 ib. XVI. Ziemovistus— 913 51 964 ib. XVII. Miecislaus, I.— 964 35 999 24 XVIII. Boleslaus Chroby— 999 26 1025 26 XIX. Miecislaus, II.— 1025 9 1034 ib. XX. Casimir, I.— 1034 25 1059 27 XXI. Boleslaus, II.— 1059 23 1082 29 XXII. Vladislaus Hermannus 1082 21 1103 30 XXIII. Boleslaus, III.— 1103 37 1140 31 XXIV. Vladislaus Sputator 1140 6 1146 33 XXV. Boleslaus Crispus— 1146 28 1174 35 XXVI. Miecislaus, III.— 1174 4 1178 36 XXVII. Casimir, II.— 1178 17 1195 37 XXVIII. Lescus, V.— 1195 8 1203 39 XXIX. Vladislaus Lasconogus 1203 3 1206 42  
  Began his Reign. Reigned Years. Died A. D. pag. XXX. Lescus V. Reestablished 1206 22 1228 ib. XXXI. Boleslaus, V.— 1228 51 1279 43 XXXII. Lescus Niger— 1279 11 1290 46 XXXIII. Henry I.— 1290 6 1296 48 XXXIV. Premislus— 1296 7 Mon. 1296 ib. XXXV. Vladislaus Locticus 1296 4 1300 49 XXXVI. Winceslaus K. of Bomia— 1300 5 1305 ib. XXXVII. Locticus restored— 1305 28 1333 50 XXXVIII. Casimir III. the Great 1333 37 1370 54 XXXIX. Lewis K. of Hungary 1370 12 1382 56 XL. Queen Hedwigis— 1382 4 1386 58 XLI. Jagello, or Vladislaus, V.— 1386 49 1435 59 XLII. Vladislaus, VI— 1435 21 1446 60 XLIII. Casimir, IU.— 1446 43 1493 63 XLIV. John Albert— 1493 8 1501 66 XLV. Alexander— 1501 6 1507 67 XLVI. Sigismond, I.— 1507 41 1548 69 XLVII. Sigismond, II.— 1548 26 1574 75 XLVIII. Henry of Valois— 1574 5 Mon. 1577 85 XLIX. Stephen Batori— 1577 10 1587. 88 L. Sigismond, III.— 1587. 45 1632 106 LI. Vladislaus, VII.— 1632 16 1648 121 LII. John Casimir— 1648 22 1670 124 LIII. Michael Wiesnowiski 1670 4 1674 145 LIV. John Sobieski— 1674 23 1697 163 LV. Frederic Augustus now reigning— 1697 5 Mon. — 207  
FINIS Partis Prima.    

A Compendious Plan OF THE Body of Physic.  

A Letter from a Gentleman in Cambridg to Dr. Connor, concerning the Method he used in his Physical and Anatomical Lectures, and in explaining the Materia Medica, at Oxford, in the Year 1695.  
SIR,  
WE have here some Account of the accurate Course of the Chemical and Anatomical Lectures which you performed last Spring at Oxford, and of your new method of explaining the Virtues of Medicines there, with the Approbation and Improvement of all that had the Happiness to assist at them. I have spoke with some curious Genntlemen that some Years ago saw your Dissections at Paris with the like good Success: And I doubt not but your Skill and Insight in all the Parts of Physic is considerably augmented since, by your Travels into Italy, Germany, Poland, and the Low Countries, having had thereby the Opportunity of conversing with Malpighi, Bellini, Redi, and the most celebrated Physicians of those Places. I have also, with a great deal of Pleasure, perused your ingenious Dissertationes Medico-Physicae, or Latin Treatises lately printed at Oxford, concerning malignant Damps, pestilential Steams, infectious Air, and Subterraneous Poisons, with certain other stupendous and rare Phaenomena. From all this I conclude, that you not only understand Chemistry, Anatomy, and the Materia Medica very well yourself, but that also you are capable to lead others into the Knowledge of them, by a most easy and compendious Method; in which Opinion I am confirmed by my Correspondent in Oxford: Many besides myself in this University do earnestly wish, that your other Occupations would permit you to pass some Months here with us, as indeed we expected you should, when you left Oxford last Summer. But since it so falls out that your Practice keeps you at London, we entreat the Favour of you to let us understand, whether we may obtain a Scheme of your Method in those Physical Exercises, or whether at London you can spare any time to such as are desirous to wait upon you to this purpose. Sir, by so doing, you are like to oblige several, but more particularly,  
Cambridg, Octob. 15. 1695. Your most humble, and obedient Servant, C. P.   

Dr. Connor's Answer, containing a Plan of his Corpus Rationale Medicum; or of his new and compendious Method Chemical and Anatomical, for understanding the Oeconomia Animalis, the nature of Diseases, and the Materia Medica.  
SIR,  
WHatever you are pleased to say in Commendation of me or my Book, I must wholly attribute to your Civility, and will return no other Compliment to you for it, but that I shall endeavour to deserve your good Opinion. I am extremely obliged to your Correspondent in Oxon for the advantageous Character he gives of me; and I assure you that I have not met with better Discipline, nor with Persons more universally learned in any University of Europe.  
As for the Method or Scheme I observed at Oxford to lead the Proficients in Physic, and other ingenious Gentlemen there into the Knowledge of the Fabric, natural Functions, and Distempers of the Human Body, as likewise into the Knowledge of the Materia Medica to cure the same Diseases, it is as follows.  
I considered Man, in the first place, as a Being compounded of Spirit and Matter: But seeing it is only the last of these Parts wherein our Faculty is concerned, I took a stricter view of the Human Body, and find the Structure of it like that of most other Animals. But to have any accurate Knowledge of Man, we must not only have a distinct Account of his constituent Parts, but likewise of all the external Bodies which any way affect him, or contribute to his Preservation. Since therefore he cannot live without Earth to tread upon, Air to breath, Animals and Vegetables to feed upon, Sun and Stars to afford him Warmth and Light, etc. we must by consequence examine the System and Elements of the World, and particularly as they concur to the Preservation or Destruction of Man. We must be very well acquainted with the nature of the three mixed Bodies of our Globe, viz. Animals, Vegetables, and Minerals, before we can give any tolerable Account of the Generation, Nourishment, Health, Diseases, or Death of Man; before we can discover the admirable Fabric and Contexture, the Mechanic and Hydraulical Actions, Chemical Preparations, the various Operations of Medicines, and an infinite number of other surprising Phoenomena in the Human Body.  
The best Method therefore, I presume, is to proceed Analytically from the previous Examination of all the known Parts of the great World, to particular Inquiries into the Microcosm. Now the first step to this Method, is a good Insight by Chemical Experiments into the Nature, more especially the Figuration and Qualities of the Principles of mixed Bodies, and chiefly of the Blood: For the want of such a Discovery (which is not impossible) has hitherto been a great Obstruction to the Improvement of Natural Philosophy, and the Practice of Physic. It is plain to me, that a Man void of all Prejudice, and who considers that all the Operations of Bodies are performed by natural Causes without Miracles, may be easily convinced that the Causes of Diseases, and the true use of Applications to cure them, can be rendered very intelligible; so that vulgar Axiom, That there's no certainty in Physic, will be found most erroneous.  
I done't, Sir, pretend to have discovered this just Method, which I hold necessary to lead us into the abstruse Secrets of Nature; but I would fain hope that the following Scheme, which is that I observed at Oxford, may approach it in some degree; which Method, though it may be called altogether new, may perhaps be a just Model for others to imitate hereafter in the true Theory and Practice of Physic, which rightly considered are one and the same thing.    

A NEW PLAN OF AN Animal Oeconomy:  
Demonstrated at Oxford in the Spring Anno 1695, at London the Winter following, and at Cambridg in the Year 1696.  
1. OF the Elements, Fabric, and System of the World, with the mutual Cohesion, Influence, and Dependence of its Parts.  
2. Of the Elements of Terrestrial Bodies, where (after various Chemical Experiments) are considered the Nature, Properties, Figures and Effects of the four Chemical Principles, Earth, Water, Salt and Sulphur, and their main mutual Action, Fermentation; as also the Productions of Animals, Vegetables, and Minerals.  
3. Of the Structure of the Human Body, and its division into fluid and solid Parts; where a particular and new Account is given of the Nature and Contexture of the solid Parts, being all made of Vascular Fibres, and demonstrated to the Eye by Dissection.  
4. Of the fluid Parts of the Human Body; of the Nature, Principles, Fermentation, and Circulation of the Blood; of Nutrition, of the Temperaments, of the Humours contained in the Blood, of the seat and nature of Fevers, where likewise of Youth, old Age, and Death.  
5. Of the Reparation of the Blood, of the Chyle, Lacteous Vessels, Chyliferous Dust; of Appetite, Mastication, Digestion, and the Ferment of the Stomach; of the Precipitation or Separation of the Excrements from the Chyle, where of the Structure of the Oesophagu. Or Gullet, of that of the Stomach, and all the Intestines, of the Peristaltic and Antiperistaltic Motions of the Guts, of the Glands, of the Mesentery, of the Lympha, and the Lymphatic Vessels.  
6. Of the Structure, Motion, and Use of the Heart, where of the various kinds of Pulses, of the Polypus in the Heart, Palpitation, and Swooning; likewise a new Hypothesis of the Motion of the Heart, and of Sanguification.  
7. Of the Contexture of the Windpipe, or Trachea Arteria, and the Lungs, where of the Cause and Use of Respiration; a new Account of the Nature of the Air, Nitre, and of the Vnvoluntariness of Respiration, of the Hiccock.  
8. Of the Praecordi. Or sanguiferous Vessels appended to the Heart, where the Structure, Motion, and Difference of the Veins and Arterics are demonstrated.  
9 Of the numerous Ramifications of the Vena Porta, and both the Vena Cava 's, of Varix 's, Hemorrhoides, Bleeding, etc.  
10. Of the Ramifications of both the Aorta 's throughout the whole Body; of an Aneurism.  
11. Of the Brain and Cerebellum; a new Account of the Animal Spirits, their Generation, Motion, and Use; of Perception, Sleeping Waking, and the Influence of the Soul upon the Body, where of Sensation, and the five Senses.  
12. Of the Eye, Tears, Nasal and Aqueous Ducts; Of Sight, Blindness, Light, Colours and the sharp Sight of some Animals.  
13. Of the Fabric of the Nose, the Membrana Pituitaria, Snot, Smelling, and Sneezing; Of the mutual Influence of the Nose and Tongue.  
14. Of the Tongue, palate, and Gums; of the Muscles and Motions of the Tongue; of Taste, Voice, Stuttering, and Dumbness.  
15. Of the Larynx, Pharynx, the Os Hyoides. Of the Glands, Salivation and spital; of the Almonds, and Uuula, etc.  
16. Of Feeling, the Cuticula, Skin, Hairs, miliary Glands, the mucous and reticular Bodies; of Fat, Transpiration, Sweat, the Itch, cutaneous Diseases, Palsy, and Plica Polonica.  
17. Of the Ear, Aquaeduct, Hearing, Deafness, Tinnitus, etc.  
18. Of the Structure, Use and Number of the Nerves; of Motion and Sense; of the Par vagum, and the Intercostal Nerves spread over all the Viscer. Of the Breast and Abdomen.  
19 Of the Structure and various Figures of the Muscles, the vascular Fibres, where Muscular, Natural, and free Motion are explained, as likewise stretching and gaping, leaping, swimming, and flying, with Convulsive, Tonic, Systaltic, Epilectic, and Hysteric Motions; of Vapours and Rheumatisin.  
20. Of the Liver, Gall, and Pancreas, where the Secretion, Motion and Mixture of the Bile, and Pancreatic Juice, with the Chyle are shown; of the Green Sickness, Yellow Jau idice and Pica.  
21. Of the Nature and Differences of all the Glands or Strainers of the Body; a new account of the various Filtrations of the excrementitious and recrementitious Humours, as Lympha, spital, Gall, Urine, Seed, etc. Of Obstructions and Dropsies.  
22. Of the Structure and Use of the Spleen, and what Melancholy is; what Symptoms happen when the Spleen is taken out of the Body.  
23. Of the Reins or Kidneys, the Atrabilary Glands, the ureters and Bladder; where of the Scrum of the Blood, Urine, and what is contained therein; of the Stone and Gravel.  
24. Of the Structure and Use of the Bones, Marrow, Ligaments, Periosteum, and Apophyses; of the different Articulations or Joints; of the Nature and Seat of the Gout, Spina Ventosa, Caries, Exfoliation, and Rachitis.  
25. Of the Parts of Generation in Man; of the Nature and Formation of the Seed, with its Effects in the Body of the Woman; the Cause and Seat of Venereal Diseases.  
26. Of the Parts of Generation in the Woman, of the Eggs and Ovarium; of Generation, Conception, going with Child, Flowers, Birth, Monsters, Floodings, false Conceptions, Whites, etc.  
27. Of the Posture and Nourishment of the Embryo in the Womb; of the umbilical Vessels, the Afterbirth, the Force of the Mother's Imagination, and the peculiar way of the Circulation of the Blood in the Foetus; of Longings.  
28. S ome Considerations of the Union of the Soul and Body, where the Laws and Effects of that Union are inquired into.  
You see, Sir, that after having examined the different Parts of the World, and the Elements of Bodies by Chemistry, I have divided the Human Body into solid and fluid Parts. Before I considered the solid Parts in particular, I thought it necessary by way of Chemistry, to be acquainted with all the Humours, and specially with the Principles and Motions of the Blood, which is the Primum Mobile of the whole Machine; for which purpose it is fit to know how by Digestion the Meat becomes Chyle, the Chyle becomes Blood, how the Blood becomes Flesh and Bone, and consequently how it must be continually repaired by Aliment; how the Heart is put in motion to communicate the same to the Blood; how the Blood expelled by the Heart, after having been rarefied by the Air in the Lungs, is conveyed by Arterial Tubes to all the Parts of the Body, and from these Parts is brought back again by the Veins to the Heart. To know why this Blood is carried to all the Parts, and what Alteration it receives in them, we must by ocular Inspection see the different Structure of all the Parts of the Body, and first follow the Blood to the Brain, to generate Animal Spirits, which Spirits furnish the Soul with Ideas in the Brain, and conveyed through the Nerves to all the Parts of the Body, they are the Causes of Motion in the Muscles, and of Sense in the five Organs, which convey the Impression of exterior Bodies to the Soul. I follow the same Blood into the Liver, where it discharges its Bilious Juice; and into all other Glands, where it leaves some superfluous Humonr, into the Spleen, where its Motion is moderated; into the Reins, where it leaves its serous Particles; into the Testicles, where is strained from it a glutinous oily Substance called Seed. In short, after knowing Man in himself, I examine the natural Ways which he uses to propagate his Kind, in begetting another by way of Generation.  
Man, as I said before, is made of two Substances, Soul and Body. The Soul preserves the Body by Reason, and governs it by voluntary Motion. The Body furnishes the Soul with Ideas of Corporeal Being's. The Life of Man is the Correspondence between Soul and Body; but the Life of the Body is the natural Motion of the Blood and Splrits, the Cessation of which Motion is Death. The solid Parts of the Body have no Motion (or Life) of their own, but such as they borrow from the Blood and Spirits. The Blood and Spirits have none neither, but such as they are allowed by the general Laws of Nature established by a Supreme Being. To maintain this mutual Correspondence and Dependence between Soul and Body, all the Organs, Springs and Humours of the body, must be in their due Disposition; for the Death of the Body is properly the loss of this Disposition, and not the Separation of the Soul, as is commonly believed: for the Body is dead before the Soul is gone out of it; and the going out of the Soul is but the Cessation of its Correspondence with the Body for want of Motion in the latter. This Disposition is disordered or ruined by Diseases, all which Diseases have their first Seat in the Blood, from whence they are communicated to the solid Parts; and the solid Parts being affected, they reciprocally infect the Blood. But though the Blood was never infected, and Man never sick, yet he should die of course, by the Relaxation and Attrition of his solid Parts, from the long and continual Circulation of the humours through them, which we call Old Age.  
As to what relates to the Materia Medica, or the Account I have given of the Virtue and due Application of inward Medicines in the Practice of Physic, I should likewise give you a Series of the different Subjects I treated of, as I have in my Plan of the Animal Oeconomy; but finding it too tedious, and needless, I will only mention in general, that all inward Diseases have their first Seat in the Mass of Blood, that they are caused by a Ferment or Matter hid in it, which derived its Origin from some outward Causes: That there are no Specific Medicines for any part of the Body, as for the Head, Heart, Liver, Stomach, Spleen, but that they must all operate upon the whole Mass of Blood; that consequently outward Applications cannot avail much for inward Distempers, that the Medicines must be carried in a convenient Vehicle through the Blood to the place where the Distemper lies, and that then they either carry its Cause out of the Body by Evacuation, or change the Nature of it within by altering the Mass of Blood.  
I may therefore reasonably divide all the Materia Medica, described by so many voluminous Authors, only into two Classes of Medicines, Evacuating and Alterating. I did not so much talk of those Remedies that evacuate only from some parts of the Body, as Bleeding, Clysters, Leeches, Issues, Blisters, Seton's, Gargles, Snush, and the like, for they can hardly ever cure any inward Disease; but of such as evacuate the Morbific Matter from the whole Mass of Blood by the five general ways, Stool, Vomit, Urine, Sweat and Salivation; where, without recurring to occult or precarious Qualities, I reduced to the Principles of Chemistry and Reason, the Nature and Operations of Purgatives, Emetics, Diuretics, Diaphoretics▪ of Antimony and Mercury, of Venereal and other Diseases, as likewise the Nature and Usefulness of Baths, and other Mineral Waters.  
I have likewise examined and endeavoured to explain the Nature and different Effects of Alterating Medicaments, which operate in the Mass of Blood without any Evacuation, such as sweeten the Blood when sour, that thin it when gross and thick, that hasten it's too slow Circulation, that stop it's too rapid Motion, as in Fevers; that cool the Blood, that heat it, and raise the Spirits, as Cordials; that calm the Spirits, as Narcotics; that strengthen the Tone of the Parts, as Styptics and Astringents; that open Obstructions, as Aperitives. Here therefore I had occasion to consider the Virtues and Operations of Steel, Opium, Jesuits Powder, of Alcalious and Acid Medicines, and of the whole Tribe of other alterating Remedies.  
It would, Sir, be too prolix and needless to mention to you all that can be said in this nice and weighty Subject, which includes in a manner the whole Machine of the Universe, which requires several Years fervent Application for any one to attain a tolerable Knowledge of, and which cost me some Months Labour to demonstrate at Oxford what small Insight I was thought to have in it: Yet still I am not unwilling to comply with your Desires, and to spare some time from my other Business here, to communicate what I know of these Matters to any Persons of both Universities, or to such other ingenious Gentlemen as have a Curiosity for things of this Nature. And I shall take care that all be performed in such a decent and creditable manner, as may be for the Benefit and Satisfaction of others, as well as my own particular Reputation. For not only my Duty, but likewise the Usefulness and Agreeableness of my Profession, though in itself very abstruse and difficult, inclines me naturally to improve it as much as I can; and I hope I shall be able in few Years to publish a Latin Treatise of the Principles of Physic, and of the Oeconomia Animals, which perhaps then will give You and the Public more Satisfaction than they or yourself can at present expect from,  
From Bow-street in Covent-Garden, London, Nou. 2. 1695. SIR, Your very Obedient Servant, B. Connor.   

A LETTER to James Tyrrel, Esq; from Dr. Connor, Fellow of the Royal Society.  
Containing a further Explanation and Vindication of the Plan of the Animal Oeconomy, or of the Chemical and Anatomical Method for understanding the Fabric, Springs, Tempers and Diseases of the Human Body.  
SIR,  
IT is upon all hands acknowledged, that the Acquaintance of Men of Learning and Worth is of great benefit towards acquiring not only the Knowledge of Men and Manners, but of Nature too. But of all the Advantages to be reaped from their Conversation, that of correcting our Prejudices or Mistakes, and of setting us in the right way is the most valuable. I should be too disingenuous, Sir, if I should not concur with the Public, in justly allowing you to be as discerning a Judge as you are a true Friend. The World is convinced of the first by your showing yourself so great a Master as well of the Laws of Nature and Nations, as of those of your own Country; and none that have the Honour to know you can be ignorant of your Sincerity a●●d Zeal, in correcting the Errors and Oversights of your Friends. To whom then should I more allowably communicate my Designs? After begging your Pardon therefore for the Ambition of numbering myself with your Friends, I must tell you, that being desired by several, and willing myself, not to conceal the small Insight I was thought to have in Anatomy, Chemistry, and the other parts of Physic; I thought first convenient to borrow from some Ancient or Modern Authors the most easy and compendious Method, for the benefit of my Auditors. But I was frustrated of my Expectations; for after having examined the voluminous Works of most Writers in our Faculty, I did not find it altogether fit to follow their Method, nor safe to espouse their Opinions. But the best course, I think, is to pick the best out of each, especially what relates to Matters of Fact, applying their Observations to my own Design, and taking Reason and Experience to be my surest Guides. But seeing several Persons either out of Malice or Rashness, have very industriously misrepresented my Undertaking; I shall now give a larger Account of it than formerly, as well to satisfy my Friends, as for my own Justification.  
My Design therefore, Sir, is to find a short, easy, and clear Method, to be acquainted with the Fabric, Functions, Tempers, and Diseases of the Human Body: For which purpose I must not only know Man in himself, but must also know all Bodies that are about him, and concur to his Preservation or Destruction. For as I cannot understand all that belong to my Finger, without I understand my whole Body, which searches to nourish and move it; so I cannot understand my Body without I understand the whole Universe: And as I cannot reasonably know any one Distemper of my Body, without I know the general Sources of all Distempers; so I cannot methodically cure any one Distemper without I understand the Rules of curing all Distempers: Which shows that Quacks, and other ignorant Pretenders, may not presume to have methodical Cures for any one Distemper whatsoever. Since therefore it is necessary to have a general view of the whole Universe to be competently acquainted with Man, the first thing we must examine is Matter, which is the general Principle of all Bodies, or rather all Bodies are Matter.  
Matter is the only thing, in my mind, that we have any clear Notion of, if we have of any. We conceive very well that an Atom has at least six Sides or Surfaces, of which one is nearer the East than the West, another nearer the South than the North, and another nearer the Zenith than the Nadir: consequently between all the six Surfaces we conceive a Space or Extension, which we call Matter or Body, though never so little; and since we consider a real Space between them, we can mentally divide it into several lesser Spaces, and each lesser Space into as many other lesser ones as we please; so that every minute Particle will be infinitely divisible. Besides, the distance between the six Sides of the Atom is so filled up and occupied by the Atom or its Extension, that it is impenetrable by any other Extension whatsoever. By an Atom I mean the minutest part in a Body actually divided from others, and still divisible in itself. Then the Properties of Matter will be Divisibility and Impenetrability.  
There is no essential Difference between one piece of Matter and another, since all Matter is extended, divisible and impenetrable. But since the Machine of the World is formed of different Bodies, and all Bodies formed of Matter, we must derive their difference at least from the Accidents of Matter: We find then that one part of Matter cannot be different from another, but in Bulk, Motion or Figure; and according as it differs from others in one or more of these Qualities, they will constitute different Bodies: By these three Qualities of Matter we can give a general account of the different parts of the World, as the Aethereal Fluid, and Terrestrial Bodies. We may observe that the Stars and Planets, the Air, the Earth, and the Water, are made of three different sorts of Matter. The Atoms of the first Matter have a lesser Bulk and more Motion than all the rest. The Atoms of the second Matter are probably spherical, have as little Bulk as the first, and less Motion: The Atoms of the third Matter are of an irregular Figure, but have greater Bulk, and have none, or a slower Motion than all the rest. We may lawfully suppose all the Stars to be made up of the first Matter: The Aetherial Fluid, or the Heavens of the second, and the Planets and Terrestrial Bodies to be made of the third. For the Parts of the first being extreme subtle, and extremely rapid, must be fluid and thin enough to pass through the Pores and Intestices of all other Bodies, and leave no Vacuities; and influence upon us the same way as the Sun does, by keeping the Air in a perpetual Fluidity, and by producing Fermentations in the Ground in such solid Bodies as have no invincible Resistance in their Parts. The Parts of the second Matter being likewise subtle, round, and consequently agitated perpetually by the Subtlety and Rapidity of the first Matter which pass through it, must form a Fluid and Transparent Extension, as the Expansum or the Heavens are. The Parts of the third Element being more bulky, more irregular, and having no Motion, or at least an inconsiderable one, must form gross, irregular, solid, opaque, and sensible Bodies, such as we see the Planets and Terrestrial Bodies to be. The two first Matters which I made mention of, are exterior Agents, which Nature, or God makes use of rather to influence a Motion into Terrestrial Bodies, than to enter into their Composition, contrary to monsieur des Cartes. So this last Element of the World, is that which I am to consider most, being the only thing that our Faculty is concerned in, because it constitutes Minerals, Vegetables, and Animals, which are the three Things that I design chiefly to examine, because they furnish us with Aliments and Remedies, and are the Causes of most Distempers.  
Tho we find an innumerable variety of Terrestrial Bodies, and this variety depending upon the difference of their Atoms, yet by tracing exactly the particular Effects of these Atoms, and by several Experiments of Chemistry, I can reduce all parts of Bodies to four only, viz. Atoms of Earth, Atoms of Water, Atoms of Salt, and Atoms of Sulphur. But when, for Example, I am to give Rhubarb, Jesuits Powder, or any other Remedy to a Patient, to be sure of its Effects, and due Application, it is not enough to know that it is made of Earth, Water, Salt, and Sulphur, but also I must know what Earth, Water, Salt, and Oil themselves are: Besides, I am to know their Proportion, and which of them predominates in it; which Physicians neglecting to discover, have left the Practice of Physic very obscure, and will ever continue so, until they give themselves the trouble to examine with more Exactness and Nicety the Nature (I mean the Figure) and Effects of the Principles of the Blood, and of all Remedies likewise.  
I know that the Chemists will immediately answer, That they have with a great deal of Toil and Labour, not only separated from mixed Bodies the before mentioned four Principles, but also discovered their Nature; for they confidently tell us, that the nature of Earth is to be porous, to absorb Water, Salt and Oil; that the nature of Water is to dissolve Salt; of Sulphur to be inflammable; and of Salt to prick, and be dissolved by Water. But they need not take so much pains to tell us of a thing that every body knows without the least insight in Chemistry. A Countryman knows that a Pot full of Ashes will soak a great deal of Water, or any other fluid Body: That Water dissolves Sugar and Salt; that Oil burns, and Salt pricks the Tongue. This is not answering the Question, for they take the Effects of those Elements for their Nature. To say that Earth absorbs, that Water dissolves Salt, that Oil takes flame, and that Salt bites, is to tell me only what these Principles are capable of doing, not what they really are in themselves. If being asked by a Person, What is Man? I should answer, that he is a reasonable Animal, or an Animal capable of Reason; he should not doubtless be satisfied with my Answer, because I tell him what Man can do, not what he is, since he exists before he can reason. I desire to know what is the particular Figure, the Specific Fabric, and the inward Nature of Earth, that makes it produce an Effect different to that of Water; and of Salt, to produce a different Effect to that of Oil.  
Until therefore we are more intimately acquainted with the different Bulk, Texture, and Figure, which are the ground of the Virmes and Qualities of all these Elements, we can give no satisfactory Account of their Effects; and we must consequently be uncertain as to the Operation of a Remedy, which has any of 'em predominating in it. I confess it will be a difficult matter to determine the different bulk and figure of the Atoms of Principles, à priori, as they term it; for they are so small and imperceptible, that we cannot discern any of 'em even with the most refined Microscopes: Yet I do not despair, but by calculating and summing up all the Effects and Proprieties of each of 'em by Reason, I may discover at lest à posteriori, as they call it, their different Bulk and Figure, which are the only primary Qualities they differ in. For it is plain to me, that when I consider that a drop of Water is insipid, transparent, easily evaporated, that it penetrates most Bodies, and dissolves all Salts; I can reasonably determine the Figure and Bulk of its Particles that are suitable to these Phenomena. I can say as much of a spoonful of Earth, when I observe that it is spongy, solid, poroud, friable, opaque, insipid; that it sinks in Water; that it cannot be raised by Fire in Distillation; that it is the Matrix and Support of the rest of the Principles of any mixed Body. Likewise of Oil or Sulphur, when I find it is fluid, insipid, ropy, inflammable, extremely penetrating, and immiscible with Water; I can guests the Nature or Texture of Parts, which is capable of such Effects. When I see that an Acid Salt is always of its own nature, fluid, sharp, transparent, penetrating; that it dissolves solid Bodies, and coagulates sulphureous ones, as Blood, Milk, etc. When I consider that an Alkali Salt is always of its own nature solid, white, porous, friable, sharp, dissolvable by Water, easily movable; that it ferments with Acids, absorbs them, and dissolves sulphureous Bodies; I can reasonably conjecture the Figure that renders both Salts capable of producing such different, nay contrary Effects; which I endeavour to perform in the Chemical and Anatomical Experiments, which I make at present in my Lord Archbishop of Canterbury's Library, which his Grace, out of his wont Inclination to serve the Public, has been pleased to give me the use of for this purpose.  
After having examined the nature of the different Atoms of Matter, I trace their Effects and Operations, all which I find are performed by Motion, which is the only Cause of all things, and which has no other Cause or Nature itself (that I know) but the pure Will of the Deity. For a Body cannot be moved without it receives all its Motion from another Body that is in motion; which Motion this second Body received from a third, that was put in motion by a fourth, and this fourth by a fifth. So tracing backward to the Creation the successive Transit of Motion from one Body to another, we must come to a first Motion of Bodies, which flowed immediately from the Creator. A Body cannot lose its Motion without communicating it all to another Body; consequently there must be the same quantity of Motion now in the World as was in the beginning. For no Motion can be lost, and no new Motion can be produced. By examining the Laws and Occasions of Motion, I consider the Nature, Conditions, and Effects of Fermentation, which is the chiefest and most universal Motion in Nature; by the means of which are form so many different Minerals, Vegetables, and Animals of the different Proportion, different Situation, and different Application of our four Elements, Earth, Water, Salt and Sulphur. But my chief Design is to show how the different Parts of Man's Body, which is the principal Subject of this Animal Oeconomy, are made of them: For out of his Bones, his Flesh, his Viscera, and even his Blood and other Humours, I draw in more or less quantity, first Water, then Volatile Spirit, or Salt, afterwards an inflammable Oil; and there remains the Earth, out of which I draw by Water a fixed Salt. I do not only examine the Nature and Proportion of the four essential Principles of our Body, but also, what is more necessary, I design by Anatomy to demonstrate to the Eye the Structure, Texture, and Use of its solid, sensible and integrant Parts, as Bones, Cartilages, Ligaments, Muscles, Membranes, Veins, Arteries, Nerves, Lymphatic Vessels, and Glands; all which I find to be form of vascular Fibres of the same kind: for I do not see that the Fibres of a Muscle differ from them of a Tendon, nor the Fibres of a Membrane from them of a Ligament, nor them of a Cartilege from the Fibres of a Bone, nor the Fibres of any part, as for their Structure, from the Fibres of all the parts. I confess the Fibres of some parts of the Body are more strictly united together than others, which makes the Compactness of some Parts, and the Limberness of others; so all parts differ from one another, only in a stricter or loser Union of their Fibres; since we find by Experience, that Flesh becomes as hard as Bone, and Bone as soft as Flesh: For we frequently discover in dissecting dead Bodies, that the Centre of the Heart, which is naturally fleshy, that the Aorta near the Heart, that Ligaments, and Cartilages turn to solid Bone; we observe likewise that Bones in the Rickets, and by Monsieur Papin's way of boiling them, become as pliable as the Flesh of Muscles.  
Before I show the Parts of the Body, I shall first examine the Humours, and chiefly the Principles, Texture, Fluidity, Circulation, and Fermentation of the Blood, the Seat of the different Constitutions and Distempers of Mankind. Afterwards I shall consider how the Blood is repaired by Digestion and Chyle; how it is rarefied by the Air in the Lungs, how it furnisheth Animal Spirits in the Brain for motion in the Muscles, and Sensation in the five Organs: What Alteration it receives in the Liver, in all Lymphatic Glands, in the Spleen, Kidneys, and in the Parts of Generation; how it nourisheth so many different Parts of the Body at the same time, as the same Water seeds several thousands of different Plants in the same Garden; and how after some Periods of Years the Springs of the solid Parts must be worn out, the Vigour of the Body decay, old Age must come on, and be necessarily followed by Death; where I must examine the Laws of the Union, Correspondence, and Separation of the Soul and Body.  
You have here, Sir, a short Extract of my Animal Oeconomy, by which you may perceive that my Design in it, is, by dissecting many Animals, (as they shall best serve my purpose) and by several Experiments of Chemistry, to discover and explain the Fabric, Springs, Humours, and Functions of Organical Bodies, but chiefly of the Human, which, I hope, will considerably facilitate the Practice of Physic, and satisfy the Inquiries of the Curious. But those Gentlemen do me an Injury, who give it out that this is a bare Course of Anatomy. Truly that were a mean and useless Business: for, as I have often hinted, I am of opinion that Anatomy can never be well understood without not only Chemistry, but a tolerable Insight into the other parts of Natural Philosophy; for which reason I comprehend them all together, to show their mutual dependence, and how they contribute to the knowledge of one another, which is perhaps a Method not commonly followed. Tho several may be more capable of it, yet none can be more willing to communicate it to the Public than I am.  
As for what other Persons have taught or asserted in I hysick, I am not to consider their Authority, or the number of their Followers, but how well they have performed what they pretended to. Without this liberty, there would be no hopes of Improvement, or any further progress in Physic, nor no other Labour be necessary to attain it, but much Reading and a happy Memory. It would be needless for us to be at the Pains and Expenses of travelling into foreign and remote Countries, to converse with learned and experienced Persons, to learn their different Methods and Maxims of curing Diseases, to observe a great variety of Distempers and Symptoms in infectious Hospitals, to open so many dead Carcases, and to try a great number of Experiments, if the Dictates of Hypocrates, or Galen, or any other Author, were infallible Rules for us to follow in the Practice of Physic. Since therefore Experience and Reason are our only Guides, no Body is to take it amiss if I censure such as wrote before me, with as much Justice as they did their Predecessors; for I'm sworn to no Master.  
You know, Sir, that the Place and Time are most convenient, and I hope you may give us often the honour of your Company, and according to your wont Candour, both do me Justice to your curious Friends, and, where I speak amiss, convince me of it, in which you will oblige,  
Lond. Feb. 12. 1695. Worthy Sir, Your very Humble Servant, Bernard Connor.   

A LETTER to his Reverend Friend Dean J. R. concerning Evangelium Medici, seu Medicina mystica de suspensis Naturae Legibus:  
OR, A Latin Treatise lately published at London, in which supernatural Effects are philosophically compared with natural ones, and explained by the Principles of Physic, the not considered within the reach of Natural Causes.  
SIR,  
I Should be proud to meet with some occasion to give you a Testimony of my Respect and Gratitude, and to show you how sensible I am of the Happiness of having been educated in my Youth by so learned a Master: I am sorry the distance between us, and the difficulty of Carriage gives me no opportunity of sending you the Treatise you heard of concerning the Suspensions of the Laws of Nature. I can only at present promise to give you a general Idea of my Design in that Book, and of the occasion that put me upon examining these Matters. I have been present often at some Disputes about supernatural Effects, in which some maintained that there could have never been any performed: and last Year I happened to be accidentally engaged against the Objections of some Persons, who pretended they could not conceive either the possibility, or the manner of them.  
These Objections I looked upon as weak in themselves, and seeming to imply, That either a Supreme Being could do nothing but what their Faculties were capable to comprehend; or, that there was a necessity, that, to convince Unbelievers, to confirm some important Truth, or to bring about some other great or weighty End, it were requisite that the Deity should not only work an extraordinary and surprising Effect, but also show them the way and manner how it was performed. We freely owned, That such Operations as are looked upon supernatural, cannot be performed by the stated Laws of Nature, but immediately by a Supreme Power, for some great Design.  
This Answer, as being undeniably true, they could not but admit: and though where the Relaters were of an undoubted Credit and Veracity, they could not but believe those Performances were supernatural; yet, for their clearer Satisfaction, they desired my further Thoughts concerning the manner of such Supernatural Effects.  
This being above my Sphere, which reaches no further than Physic, or Nature in its ordinary Operations, wherein, however, I find Matter more than sufficient to employ my Time and Thoughts, and wherein I plainly see the Existence, and can never sufficiently admire the constant Providence of a Deity; yet being willing to comply with their Desires, I promised I would give them what Satisfaction I could therein.  
This, indeed, was not the first time the very same Difficulties had been proposed in my hearing; for I had formerly discoursed with others, both in this and other Countries, upon the same Subject, and had some Years ago drawn up a rude Scheme of an Essay towards the clearing of this Point. But if this, or the like occasion, had not put me upon reviewing this Paper, I might never have given myself, or any body else, the trouble of reading it. But having thus unwarily engaged myself, I resolved to revise this Design, and to give those Persons a sight of it: This I did accordingly, and afterwards showed it to some Friends.  
They owned the Notions I advanced, and the ways of Explication I proposed were new to them, and might be so to others; and though they were not, nor could be convinced that these were the very ways the Supreme Power proceeded in the effecting of such Operations, yet they seemed inclinable to imagine, that upon these Principles supernatural Effects, and the Operations of them, were conceivable by such as know any thing of the Nature and Laws of Motion.  
This Communication of my Thoughts gave oecasion to others to discourse with me about them, and to desire that if I did intend to publish them, I would in the mean time give them, at least, the general Heads of my Design.  
This I was willing to have been excused in, as having not digested them into that Order I might at last publish them in, and was willing to reserve to myself a Power of making what Additions or Retrenchments I should afterwards think fit to make; but the Plan of the Essay happening not to be fully represented, and afterwards being worse understood and commented upon, I at last resolved to publish it as soon as I could, seeing Persons industriously reported things I never thought of.  
My Design therefore, Sir, is to endeavour to make it no longer a Difficulty to conceive, and make evident by Reason, and the Principles of Physic, I mean the Principles of Nature, all the supernatural Effects authentically delivered to us concerning Bodies chiefly, but particularly the Humane: I mean, supposing those Effects to be true Matters of Fact, and all Matters of Fact, as well Natural as Supernatural, to be immediate Effects of a Supreme Being, which must be granted; it is as easy to conceive the manner how this Infinite Power may be applied to Bodies, to work supernatural Effects, as to produce the common Phaenomena of Nature. By this I hope to convince our Sceptics, the Deists, who must give their Assent, when they have the same evident Reason to conceive the Possibility, and consequently to believe the Truth of such miraculous Effects, that are authentically related, as they have to conceive that Straw can burn in a flaming Fire.  
The Foundation I go upon, is the Structure of the Human Body, which I have often taken to pieces by Anatomy, and resolved into its essential Elements, or minute Particles by Chemistry: for I find it as necessary to be acquainted with its Fabric, to give an Account of the miraculous States it is supposed to have been in supernaturally, as it is to explain the natural Effects commonly produced in it. For want of a sufficient Insight in this matter, several Divines of the latter Ages have given very gross Ideas of the supernatural Effects they have pretended to explain; and in several places where I have been, I saw them, either through Ignorance, or for Interest, give out for Miracles, Phaenomena, that were only surprising Effects of Natural Causes, which has given so great an occasion to Scepticism, and increase of Deism.  
Having laid down for my Basis the Structure of the Human Body, as far as I could discover from my Senses, Anatomy, Fire, Microscopes, and Experiments, I proceed to examine, and endeavour to explain the different ways its natural State is supposed to have been supernaturally altered by an Infinite Power: For, finding that the Human Body is all Matter, and that all this Matter is nothing but a Union of Particles with Bulk, Figure, and respective Situation, I thought that all the Alterations that could supernaturally happen to this Bulk, Figure, or situation, could be conceived. But before I enter upon those nice Subjects, I find it first necessary to inquire into the Cause, Nature, and Laws of Motion, because Motion is the only true Cause of all Natural Phaenomena; and the Suspensions of the Laws of this Motion, are the only Causes of all supernatural Effects. I conceive the Laws of Motion can be suspended three different ways; and by one or more of those Laws of Suspension, it is as easy to solve clearly all supernatural Effects, as it is to explain the most evident Effects of Natural Causes by the common Laws of Motion.  
Tho I mention, that all supernatural Effects whatsoever can be easily reduced to some of the three Laws of Suspension of Motion, notwithstanding I do not design to speak of them all in particular, but of such only as are most in dispute among the Learned: Yet any understanding Man may easily make his Application, and resolve all other miraculous Effects into one or other of 'em.  
By the Suspension of the Laws of Motion, I do not mean that these Laws are changed or abrogated, but only that their Course is stopped, while an Effect is produced by the immediate Action of the Deity, without any Influence of theirs, for some particular end: and it cannot be denied but that the Supreme Legislator, who made first the Laws, may suspend them when he pleases; and in that state of Suspension produce of himself alone, without their Concurrence, the same Effects, which are wont to be produced only by the same Laws put in Execution. So that though a Body, for Example, of a hundred Pound Weight, by the established Laws of Motion must be moved by another that has several degrees of Motion, yet an Infinite Power may of himself, either move it without the Concurrence of another Body, or hinder its being moved by any other Body of what weight soever, though put into the most rapid Motion; as if combustible Matter should be in a flaming Fire without burning.  
Because my Design in that Book is to explain all the supernatural States that our Body is supposed to have been put into; and since its being in two places at once, is the State the most disputed and doubted of, I thought it convenient to examine the Reasons of those that assert it capable of being in several places at once, to see whether they are reconcileable with our Senses, and with the Nature and Structure of a Human Body, which is the chief thing to be considered. I find it impostible to conceive that a Human Body can be in two places at the same time, after the manner they have hitherto described, since the same Human Body can never be in two places at once, with the same Bulk, and with the same quantity of Matter.  
It is true, that considering the Divisibility of Matter, the Structure of the Human Body, the smallness of the first Stamina of the Embryo and Foetus, and the Principles and Mechanism of Generation, I have thought of one particular way, different from all that has ever been said upon this Subject, by which I may conceive, that though the selfsame numerical Particles of Matter can never be in two places at once, yet a Human Body, though not the rational Soul, can be multiplied by an Infinite Power: But since we have no evident Proof, or Experience, that any Human Body has ever been thus multiplied; and because from conceiving the poslibility of it, it is thought People may perhaps hereafter take occasion to draw several Consequences that may be liable to dangerous Constructions, and lead into erroneous Speculations, I was advised, and was willing to decline treating of this Subject, having no mind to meddle with Scripture or Religion, being not my Province. Wherefore I have endeavoured only 〈◊〉 explain those supernatural Effects that most People agree upon, submitting my Judgement to greater Capacities: For I had no other Design in that Book, but to inquire how far we may look into, and confirm Supernatural Effects, those chiefly that r●●●te to Organical Bodies, by the Principles of Physic.  
Sir, the Learned and Judicious Gentlemen of your Gown can have no reason to complain that I have invaded their Province, or encroached upon their Prerogatives: For I do not undertake to prove that there were ever any supernatural Effects produced, that matter I think belongs entirely to Divines to make evident from authentic Testimony; I only endeavour to demonstrate the Possibility of them, and if there were ever any, to explain the Mode and Mechanism with which we may conceive how they might have been performed: This is not doing any Prejudice to your Profestion; for I have that Respect to the Church, and that Deference to the Clergy, that I did nothing in this matter without the Advice and Approbation of those of them that are in the highest Station: And they owned, that though this Subject had never been yet handled by any Physician, nor indeed by any Divine that I know of, yet it was only a Physician's business to treat of, according to the Principles of Natural Philosophy and Physic. For since it is on all sides acknowledged, that miraculous Effects are above Natural Causes, no People can better judge whether any Effect is really supernatural, than those that make it their Business and Profession to know how far the Activity of Natural Causes can reach. For Physicians may find sometimes that what the wilful Mistakes of some, and the Ignorance of others take for supernatural, is the visible Effect of a Natural Cause, as I observed once at Rome some Years since: passing by chance through the Strada del Popolo, I saw a multitude of People hurrying a Man to St. Mark's Chapel, which belongs to the Venetian Ambassadors; they told me that he was possessed with the Devil, and that they, were carrying him to be exorcised: I crowded thro' the Throng into the Church, and felt the Man's Pulse; I found him in a Fever, making hideous Grimaces and Motions with his Face, Eyes, Tongue, and all his Limbs, which were nothing else but a fit of Convulsive Motions all over his Body, occasioned by disorder of his Blood and Spirits, being a Hypochondriacal Person. The Clergy and People began very devoutly to fright the pretended Devil out of him, and in a little time his disorderly Motions ceased, which, as they thought to be the miraculous Effect of their Prayers, I attributed to the natural abatement and usual cessation of such Fits.  
Every understanding Naturalist knows that an able Chemist can work such surprising Effects in his Art as may very easily pass for Miracles with such as are unacquainted how far the force of Natural Causes can extend. It would seem to 'em very astonishing to see two Liquors, that are cold of their own nature, ferment, boil, and become very hot, without any visible Cause to put them in motion: To see Aqua Regalis dissolve Massy Gold, Aqua Fortis dissolve Silver, Iron, Mercury, and most other Minerals; to see the Spirit of Nitre, and the Oil of Cloves, which separately are very quiet, turn into a burning Flame when mixed together; to see transparent Liquors when mixed, turn red, green, white, and into all sorts of Colours. I say nothing of the Phosphorus, of the surprising Effects of the, Air Pump, of the Elasticity of the Air, of the Magnet, nor of an infinite number of other wonderful Phaenomena in Nature: which though they may be common, yet they are not the less surprising, because their Cause is as hid from those that do not, and even to those that do study Nature, as that of supernatural Effects is to those Naturalists who trace Natural Causes to their highest Sphere of Activity. I do not doubt but that if the Missionaries that are sent from the Western Churches to convert the Pagans of the Eastern Nations, were as well versed in Anatomy and Chemistry, as they are in the Tenets of the Christian Religion, and in the Mathematics; and that if they did but dazzle the Eyes of these ignorant People with a great many curious and useful Experiments in these two fundamental Branches of Physic, they would perhaps make as deep Impressions upon their Minds, and give them as convincing Testimonies of the Power and Legality of their Mission, as they can at present by the spiritual or indelible Character, they say is inherent in them by virtue of their Commission.  
Pope Clement the Tenth knew well the Effects Chemistry artfully applied might produce in the minds of ignorant People, when he secured the Person of the famous Italian Signior Borri, who about five and thirty Years ago by his Skill in Chemistry did work several extraordinary Cures on Diseases in Germany, and gained such universal Reputation all over the Empire and the Northern Kingdoms, that (as it was reported of him) he thought he had Credit and Opportunity sufficient to invent and propagate a new Religion, by making his surprising Experiments in Chemistry pass for Miracles; which he might easily have done, since Chemistry being then in its Minority, was not much known in the World. But the Pope foreseeing the ill Consequence such a Design might produce, gave timely Orders to his Nuncio, then at Vienna, to desire the present Emperor to get him seized; which being accordingly done, he was sent Prisoner to Rome, on condition nevertheless that his Life should be safe, here he lived in Castello St. Angelo for several Years, where I saw him, and his curious Laboratory for Chemistry allowed him for his Diversion; no body was admitted to discourse him without special leave, for fear, I suppose, he should inform the World either of his pretended new Doctrine, or of the Injustice he might intimate that was done to him. He died lately in this close Confinement since I have been at Rome.  
Thus, Sir, I have given you as succinct and comprehensive an Account of my Design in that Book as I could well express in so few Lines, by which you will believe perhaps that I have done nothing in treating of those Matters, but what belongs peculiarly to one of my Profession to examine; and though I do not pretend to have explained this nice Subject with that Satisfaction the Public might perhaps expect, yet I hope that having been the first Person that has ever handled it after this manner, no body will blame me for having at least given occasion to others to examine it better after me, and to give a more satisfactory Explanation of it. I conceive the Subject I have undertaken to treat of in that Book is nice as well as ungrateful, wherein the Principles of Physic, the Experiments of Chemistry, and the Anatomy of the Humane Body are philosophically made use of as a Foundation to illustrate the Metaphysical Account I have given of these Supernatural Effects, which perhaps makes it not so much universally understood as I designed; however I am resolved not to meddle any more with Matters of this kind, but to apply myself entirely to the Practice of Physic. I am,  
London, the 21st of January, 1697/8. Worthy Sir, Your Obliged Friend, and Humble Servant, B. C.  
FINIS.