THE RARITIES OF TURKEY, GATHERED By one that was sold seven times a Slave in the Turkish Empire, AND Now exposed to view for the benefit of his Native Country:  
LONDON Printed for the Author 1661.   

To the Right Reverend and Illustrious, CARDINAL de MONTE.  
THE horrible fierce Discordances, and intestine Civil Wars of Christian Princes, had reduced me (most noble Cardinal) to this condition, That being despoiled and plundered of all Estate, bound in Chains, and haled thorough the Mountainous & dangerous Passages of Thracia and lesser Asia, dragged about from place to place, like horse unto a Market, I became seven times sold to the sundry and toilsome sorts of rustic labours; where under an heavy Turkish rod, & sharper provocations, in hunger and thirst, in cold and nakedness, exposed to all openness of Airs, I was compelled to attend the feeding Sheep, Goats, and all other sorts of , and oftentimes to exercise their discipline of war. For prevention therefore of a lasting misery, I endeavoured an escape; and wandering up and down, guided by the Northern Pole, sustaining Life with Acorns, wild herbs, and their bitter roots, sodden with a little salt, I spent my time in solitariness, amidst even ravening Beasts; till at length, having fastened together some few Timber pieces with cords and wythes, I ventured to pass the Hellespontick Sea; but was retaken, and brought back again unto my Master; where tied both hands and feet, and prostrated on the ground, I was most cruelly and severely scourged and threshed; and after, for the space of thirteen years, tossed and tumbled on the waves of a sad and adverse fortune under the Turkish Government. I endured and suffered many miseries, calamities, afflictions, and persecutions for my Religion's sake.  
But when I had found by sad exprience, that the former more compendious way through Thrace, could not free me from their Tyranny, and grievous Slavery, I resolved to steer another course by observation of the Southern Pole, to pass the Deserts and perilous places of Caramania and Syria: and so through many and various difficulties, I at length arrived in the holy Land, and was received by the Brethren of Saint Francis of Jerusalem inhabiting Mount Zion: from whence, after the refreshment of a year, as a man revived from death, (by God's Almighty providence) and as snatched from the claws of the hellish Dragon, & freed from those cruel tortures, I returned home amongst my Christian Friends, a true witness of the Turkish cruelties; that they with due repentance for their sins and errors, might learn to avoid like crucifyings and tortures; and likewise understand what high degree of hate those men deserve, whose foul ambitions stop and hinder the employment of Christian swords from destructing and abolishing that Satanick-Turkish Government, which may (by God's assistance) be the only preventor of our future miseries; and which hath been long-since, and prophetically spoken of, both by Christians and Infidels.  
Therefore having finished a large perambulation of the holy Land, and visited good part there of the West, and described rudely the Tragedy of their cruelties, together with other circumstances of that Government, all which I gathered from daily conversation, experience, & long practise in Courts and Camps of the Turkish Emperor; and what more I could ever learn from ratiocinations with wise and experienced men, or by reading, I committed still to memory, and at several times & stations, remitted them to writing, and made them after public; which divers learned and sober persons translated into their several Idioms: which when I found, and perceived they might prove necessary, or somewhat useful, & favourably accepted by the Reader, I recollected them, and bound them up into this little bundle, and have dedicated the whole unto your Grace, the best of Patrons, printed in this famous City, Rome, receptacle of all Natoins, to be difpersed to all Friends and Strangers.  
Do you therefore by the example of our Saviour Christ, who preferred the poor Widows mite, before the gifts of Princes, & with that purchased the inheritance of immortality, favourably & in good part accept of this poor oblation, from  
Your Grace's most devoted Servant, Bartholomeus Georgic viz, Pilgrim.   

THE PILGRIM TO HIS Christian READER.  
I Once had fixed my intentions, (worthy Reader) that these my poor endeavours should come abroad (for your utility and pleasure) in a far comelier habit, clothed with augmentation of Arguments, and more p … ed Expressions: but my poverty, and nakedness of necessary Implements, diverted all such thoughts, and stopped my undertaking such a labour; wanting besides both time and place of fit retiredness for studious desires.  
Sumptuous and smooth Garments, or Men well moneyed, have only entrance into Prince's Palaces, and great men's Gates; that if n●w Homer should even himself otherwise appear, a rude and surly Porter thrusts him out of doors. And I confess in conscience, in this degenerate Age, men take more pleasure, spend more thoughts and money in sculpture, picture, hawking, hunting, and worse things, unnecessary, then in due observance of our Saviour Christ's exemplary divine moralities, then in the service and advancement of their Laws and Country, or relieving wants of distressed poor or Pilgrims, Do y●u not so, (good Christian Reader;) but first in all humility, and reverence, obey, and worship your Great God, Creator, and Redeemer; next, be more careful to supply the needy and poor-Man, who is a Temple of Christ, an Habitation of the Holy Ghost: then, not only love and study the prosperity of your Country, (which God exacts above all private interests) but love all good Supporters of your just Laws and liberties, and all true Patriots therein. And if you shall receive by this my pains, the least of delectation, impute it not to your well-wishing PILGRIM, but the benignity and liberality of his noble PATRONS and BENEFACTORS: and where you find Him pass the limits of Sobriety or Modesty, or to come short and flat in Elecution, let your great prudence and humanity correct Him; and be pleased to consider Him, to have spent the ablest and best portion of his time and Age, in rude and rustic servitudes, under the Turkish Nation, and not in application to liberal Arts and Sciences.  
Farewell.   

The TRANSLATOR TO THE READER.  
HE that desires to move compassion or suchlike affections in others, must have some sympathy and natural inclination thereto himself. The perusal of this small Treatise, brought sadness to my thoughts, and tears into my eyes, even to a fellow-feeling of the bitter and disastrous condition of Christian Captives. What heart so flinty, as to forbear lamenting for them? The rigid old opinion of some Stoics, who fancied & taught not be grieved at any event, Not to be disturbed with dolency at any accident befalls mortality, is a doctrine no way suitable to Christianity. All man must be resigned, surrendered, unmanned, and quite put off, if affections be taken from him. The sense and tenderness whereof, wrought me to this Translation: and remembered thereby, to praise and glorify our good and gracious God, who hath preserved us from such calamities; and likewise hoping to increase the number of relenting minds, and charitable dispositions. My poverty and weak capacity, could find no other means to be instrumental for them. Thick and dark clouds have eclipsed the warmth and comfort of the Sun from me: but, Be you merciful, as your heavenly Father is merciful.  
Farewell.   

ERRATA.  
Page. Line.  12. 23. for and paid, read are paid. 14. 16. put out Troy-weight. 28. 5. for teh, read the. 44. 8. Passengers, read Passages. 79. 1. do kill, read do not kill. 102. 14. for their fenars, read their defence. 117. 21. for drunk, read drink. 123. 8. for Rocks, read Rocks.   

Of the Rites and Ceremonies of the TURKS.  
CHAP. I.  

Of their Oratories.  
THe fabrics of their Churches are sufficiently large and sumptuous, and called by the name of Meschites: in which I never could perceive any sort of fancies or imageries (for Idolatry is held by them the worst of abominations) but only these, or one of these inscriptions following, in the Arabic Language, There is no God but one, and Mahomet his Prophet; or, One Creator and Prophets equal: or, None is strong as God. Then there is seen a great abundance of burning Lamps, the whole Church whited, the Pavement covered with Mattresses, and on them the Ornaments of Tapestries. Near the Church, is erected a Tower of great height, to the top whereof the Priest ascends before the time of Prayers, and with a loud voice, his ears stopped with his fingers, he thrice proclaims these words; God, True, One: which Clamour or Outcry (for they have no Bells) being heard, the Nobility, and all unbusied persons, repair to Church, as bound to that devotion. Afterwards the said Priest descending, prays with them; (and then they turn their faces towards Mecha:) And this he is tied to do by his Office, five times day and night. But whosoever cometh to these Prayers, must wash his hands, his feet, and privities, and his head thrice sprinkled with water, and these words pronounced: Glory to my God. Then, their shoes put off, and left at the Church-door, they enter in, some , others having new Shoes or Socks, and so tenderly touch the ground. Women come not into Churches, as being not excised, and for fear of disturbing men's devotions; but meet apart in severed places, altogether shut off from eyes and ears of men; and more seldom frequent their Churches, except in time of Passeover, or Easter, and on Fridays; which days, from Mahomet's Traditions, for distinction and imitation, they almost respect as much as Jews their Sabbaths, or Christians the Lord's day. They pray from nine a clock at night till twelve; and in their praying, their bodies are ever in great motion and agitation, wherewith they marvellously afflict themselves, with loud cry and fierce ejaculations; so as oftentimes, their strengths and spirits failing, they sink unto the ground; and if it happen, any of them conceive herself with child, she than assures herself, that pregnancy proceeds from favour of the Holy Spirit; and when delivered, the Infants born are called, Sons, or Souls of the Holy Ghost. This hath been related to me from their Handmaids; for I, nor ever any man else, were present at that spectacle. At men's devotions I have been often present with my Master; whose customs are in manner following: in their prayers they ne'er take off (their Turbans) cover of their heads, but with the tops of their fingers gently touch them, in token of taking them off; they fall upon their knees and often kiss the ground: they hold it for great wickedness, to have a Christian present at their mysteries; for they believe their Churches (as they say) to be polluted by men unwashed; and that Christians use not such Lavatories. Every Church in Turkey hath a peculiar place for Baths and washings, with lodgings for a Priest. Now here the Priest ascends his Pulpit (reads a piece of the Alcoran, and sometimes expounds it) and there preaches about two hours; his Sermon ended, two boys come up to him, who pronounce their prayers singing with responsals; which Songs being ended, the Priest with the whole People in a low voice, beating upon their sides, repeat these words, There is but one God; which for the space of half an hour they do, and so departed. But this manner of Prayers and Ceremonies of Preaching and singing, are not done every day, unless in time of Lent, Festivals, some Sundays; and most observe the Fridays for religious worship.   

Of their Lent.  
THey keep their Lent by fasting one Month and one Week every Year; but not always the same: for if this Year they fast out January, the next they fast out February, and keep on that course; so as in twelve Years space, they dedicate to God (in lieu of tenths) one Year and twelve Weeks. Travellers and sick Persons are excused from present fastings; but are enjoined to supply it, by fasting so many days at other times. When they fast, all that Day they taste nothing, not so much as Bread or Water; then the Stars appearing, it is lawful for them to eat of all things which are not strangled, or Hoggs-flesh, which they esteem as carrion, most unclean. Their Lent being past, they observe Easter for three days, with great solemnity, anointing the Nails of their Feet and Fingers with an Oil which they call Chna, which maker those Nails to shine like Gold; and with the same, they sometimes slain or colour the Hoofs and Tails of Horses. This Tincture holds very long, & can hardly be wiped away; so, as until new Nails thrust out the old, they still retain that dye: but Nails of the Hand, by frequent washing, abate in time. Women do not only anoint the Nails, but their whole Hands and Feet also with that Oil.   

Of their Circumcision.  
THey Circumcise not on the eighth day, as the Jews do, but when the newborn arrive at the age of seven or eight years, and be of perfect speech: the mystery whereof, is from the words of confession required before circumcision, which are some of those sentences  in their Churches, which they repeat, and give assent thereto, by holding up the Thumb of the right-Hand. The Youth is not for this mystery brought unto their church, but is circumcised in his Parent's House. I have been often present at this solemnity, which is performed in manner following: first, the friends are all invited to a feast, sufficiently furnished with all sorts of delicate flesh, lawful for them to eat; and almost everywhere, especially amongst the wealthier sort, an Ox is killed, bowelled, and flawed; in the body whereof, they include a Sheep; and in that Sheep, a Hen; and in her, an Egg; all which are entirely roasted together, for the solemnity and splendour of that day. Then in their Feast and time of Supper, the Boy that is to be circumcised, is brought to a Physician skilful in that Art, who fixing between a pair of pinchers the foreskin of his privy Member, to prevent all fear in the Boy, he telleth him, that the next day he will circumcise him, and so departs; but presently feigning to have omitted something appertaining to this preparation, on a sudden he cuteth off the foreskin, applying thereunto a little salt and bombace; and then he is called a Musselman, that is, one circumcised. Yet their Names are given the day of their Nativity, not Circumcision. After continuance of this Feast for three days, the Boy with great pomp and solemnity is accompanied to the Baths; and being returned to his House, he is brought before the Guests, and by them presented with gifts prepared for him; some give Silver, Silken Vestments; some, Silver Cups; others, Money; and sometimes, Horse. Women present him likewise, some, with Shirts, Handkerchiefs, and such like, according to the several pleasures and abilities of the Guests. Women are not circumcised, only they confess the aforesaid words, and so made Musselmen. And if any Christian voluntarily confess a Faith in Mahomes, and suffers Circumcision, (which often happens, by the heavy yoke and burden of their Tribute) this Man is led through all the Streets and open places of the City, to the great joy and honour of the people, with acclamations and ringing of Bells: him also they present with gifts, and after free him from all Tribute. For covetousness of this profit, many Greeks and Albans become circumcised. But if any be forced thereto, as he that shall strike or otherwise disgrace a Musselman, or blaspheme Mahomet, (as it befell a certain Grecian Bishop which I did see) that man is circumcised, and hath nothing presented to him, yet shall be freed from Tribute as others circumcised.   

Of their Priests.  
THeir great Musty (as the Pope among catholics) cannot err, and is the highest Minister of all Religious and Lay Persons: an Officer of great power and trust: his conclusions and sentences in State and Church-affairs, are irrevocable; and his person held in most esteem and reverence next the Emperor: his habit most in green, being Mahomet's colour. There is small difference between their other Priests and Laymen, nor much from the Governors of Ceremonies (such as our Bishops are) neither is much learning required from them: it is sufficient, if they can read the ALCORAN and MUSSAPH; yet they that can interpret on the Text, are esteemed most learned, because the Traditions of Mahomet are written in the Arabic, not vulgar Turkish Character; and they hold it for most detestable, to have them interpreted in the vulgar Language. These Priests and Governors are elected by the People; but their rewards are stipends for their labours, and paid by the King. They have Wives, and Habits like Seculars: and if their stipends be not sufficient to maintain the number of their Children, they otherwise supply themselves by Handicrafts, and Trades, or what else befits a Freeman; as teaching Schools, transcribing Books, etc. I ne'er could see amongst them any Printers; but Paper is there very well made. Some make profit one way, some another, as Tailors, Shoemakers, etc.   

Of their Monks.  
THey have likewise Monks of several Orders; but chief of these three: the first have no propriety in any thing, they go almost wholly naked, saving their privities covered with a Sheep's skin, and in cold weather they use the like to cover their backs; their sides, their feet and hands, are never covered. They beg alms as well of Christians as Turks; and, For God's sake. These Monks having eaten an Herb called Maslach, are possessed with a kind of fury and madness; they cut and wound their breasts cross and overthwart, and so their arms, dissembling all trouble or pain; then clap on their heads, hands, and breasts, the sponge or mushrooms of old Trees light burning, and not remove them till they are reduced to ashes. Another Order I have seen, who go with their privy part bored thorough, and a Ring included of the weight of three pound Troy-weight; and this to preserve chastity. The third Order is rarely seen abroad; but remain both day and night in Churches, where within some little Angles they have small Cabins, no shoes, vestments; or cover of the head, wearing nothing but one shirt; their exercise is fasts and prayers, that God would reveal things future to them. With this sort of Monks, the King of Turks usually consults, when he intends a motion or expedition to War.   

Their reverence to Mahomet's Traditions.  
THey give so much respect to Mahomet's Traditions and Statutes, that, not only they never blaspheme GOD or his Prophet; (which amongst us sometime happens) but if they find the least leaf or scroll thereof, lying on the ground, they take it up and often kiss it, and place it on some shelves or chinks of walls; affirming it a sin, to suffer that wherein the Name of God, and Laws of Mahomet are written, to be trodden under foot. And no man dares to sell the Alcoran, and other writings of their Law, to any Christian, or any other differing in Religion or Faith with them, lest they should be trodden on, or touched with unclean hands: and whosoever should so do, is severely punished. And in this regard they may be styled fare more reverend than Christians.   

Of their Schools.  
THey have places for Instruction, and Teachers both of Men and Women: in several Towns, Men, the Boys; and Women, the Girls: some teach Astronomy, Physic; and some, the Art of Poetry; which when they do, they speak out with loud voice; and moving their hands unto their sides, they pronounce their meanings. They understand no artificial Music; but frame verses to certain rules, which consist of eleven syllables. The hotness of the Climate, & often sicknesses, makes most inclined to Physic, wherein they have some small knowledge. They learn Astronomy, to be thought able to tell fortunes. Printing is supplied by a number of writing Priests; and perhaps neglected (as all learning is) to maintain the people's ignorance, and keep them off from search into the gross absurdities of their constrained Religion.   

Of Marriages.  
THey marry without Vows or Oaths, take Wives without portions, and for the most part buy them; contrary to the Roman custom, where the Son in law was bought with Money to take a Daughter. This married Woman carries nothing with her for use or ornament, which she is not forced to redeem or purchase from her Parents. Evil manners or sterility, are causes of Divorces; for which there is a peculiar Judge. They permit their bondmen or purchased servants to marry; but the issue of them are all born slaves. The Alcoran persuadeth marriage, as pleasing God and Man; and it allows plurality of Wives and Concubines, as many as Man pleaseth. The Turk amongst his (whereof he hath above five hundred in his Seraglios) nameth her for his Wife or Sultana, by whom he hath his first-begotten Son. All their Wives are used with equality of respect, in diet, , returns, and what concerns them; and are most obedient to their Husbands. They nurse their own Children, and bear them on their Shoulders, not in their Arms: no men, but Eunuches, are suffered to be with them, not their own Sons, if above twelve years of age: they never go abroad, but accompanied with only Women.   

Of Strangers.  
Pilgrim's of several Nations travel to visit holy places, which the Turk possesseth; as Mecha and Medinum, (as Christians, Jerusalem) where they say Mahomet was buried; but this is done as well for gain and profit, as for devotion or Religion's sake. And there having seen a gilded  hanging from the roof of the Church, & bought such fine linen and cloth as they please, they return home with great advantage; some carrying about the Streets, water, from thence, in glasses, for devotions' sake, and freely give it to any that are thirsty; others, do the like for profit. And if any one of them happen to die in this Pilgrimage, by what occasion soever, although he ne'er arrive near Mecha, yet he hath the estimation, and shall be placed in the rank of Pilgrims.   

Miracles done by Mahomet at Mecha, which, they say, he still doth in these times.  
I Know not whether I should call them Miracles, or rather Monstrous toys, written in their book called Mehemedine, wherein they are persuaded, that when Mecha was a building, GOD, by the prayers of Mahomet, commanded divers mountains to bring their stone to the Fabric of that Church, every Hill his tenth: and when divers Mountains had brought their portions, and Mecha built and perfectly completed, a certain Hill called Araphat, and some other more remote, coming thither with their tenths somewhat too late, and finding Mecha built, and no use of their stones, they began most bitterly to weep; which when Mahomet perceived Hills so distressed, and understood the cause, he said unto them, Be of good cheer, weep not, but store your tenths up in a place which I shall show you; and whosoever shall not pray upon your stones, his pilgrimage shall be unprofitable and unaccepted. And after so doing, Mahomet struck the stones with his foot, and there issued out Water, not useful to drink; and imposed a name, and called it, A water of purification, whereof every Pilgrim carrieth at his return, some portions thereof in vessels; and whenever any die, the vestures wherewith the body is to be covered, are sprinkled with this water, for remission of their sins. And they further affirm, That no man can come to Mecha, whose visit is not known to Mahomet, who reveals the persons to the Keepers there (all Eunuches:) and if a Pilgrim come, a Ravisher, or wicked Man, a Christian, or any of Religion different from theirs; these said Keepers forbidden him entrance into Mecha. But the body of Mahomet is not there, as some affirm, but only an imaginary form in the Wall of the Church, expressing the lineament of a body, which is often kissed; and so they return home again. Such lying follies, for miracles, these Infidels are possessed with, concerning Mahomet; and divers others, so ridiculous, as I omit for modesty's sake: yet must advise the Reader, if he please, to interrogate any Turk therein, and he will find I have spoke nothing but mere Truth.   

Of their Alms.  
THe Alcoran obligeth men to Alms, as meritorious, and much pleasing God; and saith, The contrary comes from the Devil. They have Hospitals for poor travellers, built by the Wills and Legacies of their Kings; where they have meat in different manners: some allow Rice with flesh, others prepare Wheat Bread, and Water to drink; but for rest or Lodgings, there is no place allowed: yet there are some few public receptacles, where they are received without charge, or other bedding than Straw or Hay; but they repose under a good Roof.   

Of their Sacrifice.  
THeir Offerings or Oblations are for the most part upon promise or vows, in sicknesses or other dangers; and then they kill an Ox or a Sheep, according to abilities; and promise to sacrifice it in some certain place. This Offering is not burnt, or placed on an Altar, after the custom of the Jews; but the beast being killed, the skin, head, and feet, and a fourth part of the flesh, is given to the Priest; another part, to the poor; a third, to neighbours; and the remainder they keep for themselves and friends to rejoice withal. Neither are they tied to perform these vows, unless they escape the disease or danger for which they intended them: all things with them being conditional; I give you, if you give me. And the like is observed by the Greeks, Armenians, and other Asiatic people, even of the Christian Faith.   

Of their Wills and Legacies.  
IF any of their Musselmen make a Will, their Legacies are given before Friends or Neighbours; and they are commonly for cutting Watercourses, for conveying Springs from some remote places, to Hospitals, Churches, or dry habitations; and that for Piety sake, and their souls benefit. Others give money to free bondmen out of thraldom. But Women for the most part (as most superstitious) bequeath their gifts to Soldiers, for a certain slaughter of Christians, which they conceive to be greatly beneficial for their Souls. The Legacies of their Kings are for the building of Hospitals, Churches; and so likewise are those of eminent and great personages.   

Ceremonies of the Dead.  
When any of their Musselmen die, men take the Funeral-care of men, and women of women. They wash the departed body very clean, and wrap it in fine linen; then they carry it out of Town, into some remote place, (for they hold it sinful to bury in their Churches.) first, Friends of the deceased and Priests meet and go in progress, certain Monks bearing wax Candles; then follow some of their Priests singing till they come to the Grave, shaking their heads, & often turning round, fall down with giddiness, as in a trance. The better sort have their Graves lined with Board's at bottom and at sides, and covered with Board's, on which they throw the Earth, and strowe sometimes the seeds of Flowers thereon. Great Men and Bassa's have peculiar Chapels for themselves and Kindred. The poor are buried by highways, or in open-field. If the deceased be of poor ability, there is then money gathered for satisfaction of labour for those religious Men, which is offered in the Streets.   

Of the edifice of a Sepulchre, called Tulbe.  
OVer this stately Tomb, (being Princelike) there is erected a goodly Temple, wherein their Kings are buried in the City with great magnificence. Both rich and meaner, have an Altar built of such an height, as Beasts cannot annoy or pollute it with any foulness: thither with lamentations & weep they often return; and spread upon the monument sacrifices of meats, bread, flesh, cheese, eggs, milk. This Solemnity or Funeral-Supper continues for nine days after the party's burial, (according to the Heathen manner) for the soul of teh departed: and it is left to be eaten by the Poor, by Aunts, or Fowls of the Air. They say, It equally pleaseth God, to give alms to Beasts that want, as men, when they are given for God's sake. I have seen many buy birds in cages at good values, only to set them at liberty, and see them fly away; others, throw Bread into Rivers for Fishes, and that for the love of God, saying, That such charity towards the needy, doth obtain a great reward from Heaven.   

Concerning War.  
THe Turks have all one Emperor or King of the Race of Ottoman; who hath next to himself in Authority two Sangiaches, or Viceroys, chief Governors, th' one of Europe, th' other of Asia; and these have under them Lieutenants of lesser quality, who command the ordinary Soldiery; and if they fail, being called to any expedition, are presently punished with death. He hath others always following him; as Councillors, Guardians of his body, ever near him; chamberlains, chancellor's, & exactors of tribute, for moneys and young people; with certain numbers of light-horse, messengers, & divers others that continually follow the court. His greatest strength is in his Slaves; Children (for the most part) torn from Christian Parents, with Tribute-childrens bred and educated in several Seraglios, Captives taken in War, and Renegadoes. Of these, some are trained up, and serve on horse; who have a double stipend to the Foot, and always ready at command, in stables keeping four hundred horse together. The great body of Foot-Souldiery are the Janissaries, all commanded by a Chief, called their Aga, a person of mighty trust, and like importance; who hath under him divers inferior Commanders, and have Seraglios apart. Of these, and Auxiliary Forces, the Turk can draw three hundred thousand to the Field. A great part of these Janissaries attend the Court, Ambassadors houses, and protect all Christian Inhabitants and Travellers, for rewards; and are faithful in those employments. Their Standard in the Field, is an Horse-Tail tied upon a pole; an Emblem of their first barbarity and rudeness. His strength at Sea is not considerable, consisting most in Galleys, and those not equal to some Italian Princes; nor hath he many, for want of Slaves, whom he employs more for Land-services. The best of Shipping, is under the Bassa's of Algiers and Tunis, whom he manageth with much policy; sometime as Rebels, and sometime as good Subjects, to his best advantage against Christians: for if they complain of loss, the Turk then says, He cannot rule them. If th' other do the like, he'll take triple damages.   

The Condition of Neblemen.  
THere is not any of those great Personages that possess by right of inheritance any Province, City or real Estate, to derive unto his Children or Successors, without consent of the King. If any of their Dukes or Princes desire possessions, it must be with this condition; the value of the Place or Territory is first considered, and the Revenues thereof, whereby the Turk apportioneth what number of Soldiers that can annually maintain: then the Lord is enjoined always to keep in readiness that number, for any his commands; and in default, his head is lost: nothing can excuse his presence in any commanded place, but known want of health and sickness. And whensoever it please the Turk to ease him of this benefit, it's at his liberty; but if not deprived, he enjoys it during life: after death, if his Successors will observe the fame conditions, they are often admitted; if not, 'tis then disposed to others. And if it happen, any one of these great ones have occasion to speak unto their King, with eyes fixed on the ground, they dare not look him in the face.   

Of Bassa's, who may be called Counsellors, Chancellors, or Secretaries.  
THese for the most part are all Eunuches, castrated when Youths, and bred in Seraglios, for attendants on the Turkish Concubines: and of later years, some of them (as I was informed, being a Slave to a great Man in Constantinople) are cut so close the body, that they often die by th' incision; and if live, they ever after use small pipes for discharging their water: such is their cruel jealousy, introduced (as 'twas said) by an Emperor that perceived a Gelding leap a Mare. These Bassa's are of greatest esteem with the Turk, next to the Sangiaches; and they are almost all that are preferred to that dignity; Children of Christian Parents, violently taken from them: and none of them, although he hath to Wife a Daughter of a Turk, (as Hurstan Bassa had) can enjoy a Parish, Castle, or Village by inheritance; but if he be promoted to any dignity or possessions, he enjoys it till his death, or so long as the Turk pleaseth. Each Bassa hath a Court of Justice in the Province he commandeth, from whence appeals are to the King, or great Mufty; whose sentence is concluding and .   

The obedience of Turks to the King.  
NOne of their Janissaries or great Captains have licence to wear Swords or other Arms within the Cities, unless the King go forth his Palace, for Devotion sake or Hunting. And where there are Magistrates or Governors of Towns, Porters carry with them staves or clubs; and finding any quarrelings or offer at injuries, they presently punish them with those instruments; and no man speaking to them, dares look them in the face; but falling on the earth, kiss their feet, with eyes to the ground, and speak as to themselves. And whensoever they send forth Messengers with Letters to Governors, Cities, or Provinces, whose horse grows faint by journeying, this Messenger hath full authority to dis-horse whom ere he meets; and meeting none, he turns into the next Town or Village, and repairs to the chief Officer; and if he presently provides him not an horse, he's hanged before his door: and for this cause, many make use of asses, rather than keep horse. And when this Messenger shall come to whom he was sent, he is most honourably received, his Letters kissed with great humility, and their Contents answered with incredible celerity and quick dispatch. No Princes dare contradict one syllable therein. None dare (as here) rebel; all men live in such awful fear and trembling: Tortures and present death depending on his will.   

The Turkish strength, how diminished.  
THe Emperor distributes in some equality all Provinces to his Noblemen; but with condition, that such a Soldiery shall be continually maintained by him with the Revenues of that Province, both in time of Peace and War. A Soldier killed, is not loss to him, unless the Province likewise be lost: as for example, The Turk hath now four hundred Soldiers, whereof one hundred is maintained by Hungary; now if he lose Hungary, those Soldiers are lost: if he lose no Province, he loseth nothing; for he can raise more in their rooms; as Church-Officers, or benefits, easily find in vancancies Successors.   

The condition of Chazilars.  
THese are stout Soldiers, and excellently versed in military affairs, who in their first encounters break their Lances, without other Armour, than a Sword, Lance, and Target, using it as we do with Coat of Fence and Helmet; the Lance being broke, they use the Sword, and fight valiantly, always aiming at the head or hands, and think it ignominious to thirst at their adversary, or an horse, with point of Sword. These Men spend all their lives and hopes under the protection of a Goddess, Fortune; having a Proverb with them, What is written, will befall them; that is, What that Goddess hath printed on the head at each Man's Nativity, cannot be possibly avoided, though he were preserved in a Castle unexpugnable. The actions of these men are writ in verses, and sung by all Men; that others stirried up by like praise and honour, might, with like audacity, advance against an Enemy, courageously and valiantly: and, for each victory of these Men, their stipends are doubled; and, are obliged attendance on their King, on horseback, with Lances, Swords, and Iron Clubs: some, have Targets; some, none; and are paid as well in Peace as War.   

The order of their Foot.  
THeir first are Bowmen, with Arrows, Bows, and Javelins; they are distinguished from Janissaries by cover of the head. The second is of Janissaries, who instead of Bows, have Guns, with short Hatchets: all these are gathered from amongst Christians living under Tribute, by force snatched from their Friends being young, circumcised, and educated as aforesaid. These fight most valiantly against Christians, yet have but slender stipends for their maintenance; some four, five, or six Asper's a day; of which, sixty make a Crown English. And these are prohibited on pain of death, to come on horseback, unless sick. There are some few likewise, sons of Turks, made Janissaries. There is a third order, whom they call Azaplars, whose stipends determine with the War, and are all sons of Turks. These use a longer Lance, with Swords, and red hats or bonnets, or other coloured cloth, with crooked angles like half Moons; and so distinguished by Arms and Habit, from th' other orders. There is a fourth of the Grecian sect, who have no other stipend, than freedom from paying Tributes and Tenths. They commonly attend the Turks horse of pleasure, keeping them at their own charge, and well managing them for war.   

Of the Turks Pavilions.  
WHen the King removes from Constantinople, to any Expedition of War, he carrieth with him double Tents, that when one is planted this day, th' other is carried to the next station, ready to receive him the day following: the number and magnitude of these Pavilions is such, that afar off they seem no less than Cities: round about the King's Pavilion, are the Tents of Princes and great Men, encompassing his in circle. Then the horsemen of Arms, two or three together, have their Tent: the footmen have the like for discipline sake, and to keep them from cold Air. When the body of the Army moves, Yeomen footmen clear the ways, and here and there make heaps of stone, or piles of wood, for ease and direction of the passage; so as even in darkness of the night they can hardly err. The Army moveth at midnight, and till midday following marcheth. The King rides between two Bassa's talking with him, before whom marcheth some of the order of Janissaries on horseback, bearing lighted Candles in time of night. Certain Captains follow them with iron Clubs round pointed, who keep off men from sight of the King a good large distance: amongst these, are numbers of the King's Guard; and amongst them, a Chariot of Women and Boys, fitted for use of the Turk and his Nobility. These great Men, go some before, some follow these Captains with great multitudes of Soldiers, horse and foot, and all conditions; some for stipend, some for plunder; but all men.   

Their carriages of Beasts.  
THen follow a multitude of Camels, Mules, Horse, and sometime Elephants laden with Victuals, Pavilions, and all necessaries for military uses; and where the Turk pitcheth his Tent, there every one, according to his condition, (as in a City) sets up his habitation; Booths for Tailors, Bakers, Butchers, Sutler's, and all sorts of Victuallers: some sell dainty flesh, and fowls; and when fresh meat cannot be had, than what is brought upon their Beasts, they expose to sale; biscuit, dry meats, cheese, curds, and milk. All Turks are generally most patiented in suffering hunger, thirst, and cold. They seldom lodge in Towns, but field it in their Tents, near water-springs, Rivers, or Meadows, taking more care of their  then themselves; content with little and coarse diet, curds mingled with water, bread with milk, sometime biscuit: master and servant eat together. They keep deep silence in the night; they neglect stirring after fugitives, for fear of raising clamours; which are forbid upon great mulcts and punishments: but when they go to rest, or rise to march, all with an unanimous noise, cry out, Allah, Allah, Allohu, that is, O God, thrice repeated.   

Of justice exercised in War.  
THere is so much severity in military discipline, that no Soldier dares unjustly seize on any thing of another's; for if he do, he dies without mercy. They have amongst them certain Guardians, Defenders of all Passengers from Soldier's violence, with Boys of eight or ten years old, carrying bread, eggs, fruit, oats, and suchlike things to sell. These Guardians are bound to free and preserve all Orchards, Gardens, Closes, they pass by; so far, that they themselves dare not touch an Apple, Pear, or Grape, or any suchlike thing, without the owner's licence; otherwise they lose their heads. When I was present in the Turkish Army in an Expedition against the Persian, I saw a great Commanders head, with horse and servants, all three cut off, because that horse had been found grazing in another man's pasture unsatisfied for.   

Celebrations of a Turkish victory.  
WHen a Conquest is declared, the Cities strait throw themselves into all delights and joy. At entrance of night, for good auspice of the solemnity, Torches, Wax-candles, Lamps, Firebrands, Fireworks, and all things that give light, are everywhere disposed of throughout the City; with Garpets, costly Hang, Tapestry, and Silken, Silver, and Gold Vestments, their houses all are covered, but especially that way, by which the Emperor entereth. The chiefest triumph is made in Constantinople, his conftant residence, unless occasioned by war into some other Region. And he is bound by Law at every three year's end, to undertake some expedition into Christian Territories, for advancing or defending his own Kingdom. I verily believe, and do confess, for those days he celebrates for Victory, no Mortal eye, (nay, not the Moon or Sun) did ere behold a spectacle more glorious and resplendent, for order, number, silence, richness, state, and magnificence in all kinds. It is impossible for only man to be exalted to a loftier degree of sublimation, than this Pagan when triumphful.   

Of their hunting and hawking.  
NO Nation under the Sun delights so much in hunting, as doth the Turkish; they'll follow game through rocky, steepy, craggy mountains, and that, on horseback, taking diversities of Beasts; but if any chance to be killed, or suffocated by dogs or chase, they never eat thereof, nor any Christian that lives in those Regions: and if they kill wild Boars, they give them to the next inhabiting Christians, Musselmen being forbidden to feed on Hog's flesh. The Turk hath multitudes of Faulkoners (above thousands) in constant wages through his Empire. Their Hawks both long and short winged very hardy. The like charge he's at, for all sorts of dogs: nothing can move in th'Air, or stir on Land, that shall not be encountered, and seized on. These charges, with the Soldiery, Officers, Seraglios, and Court-attendances, are in a manner infinite; and yet supplied more by casualties than Revenues constant: for he commands all men's fortunes at his pleasure, and is the general Heir of all that by nature die, or violence.   

Of Artificers and Husbandmen.  
THe Countrypeople with their Servants blow their Lands, and pay the Tenths of all increase unto the King. Artificers maintain themselves by Trades: who live in idleness, consume in hunger. They eagerly pursue all sorts of Merchandizing; travelling the lesser Asia, Arabia, Egypt, and States of the Venetians. They have their Baths in every City, where in solemn manner they wash themselves. When they make Water, they wash that part; and the like, when they ease their bodies. The like is done by Women, who have handmaids following them, with Vessels filled with Water; and when they bathe, they anoint themselves with such an unguent, that within the space of half an hour, roots off all hair from parts anointed. Men and Women do the same; not suffering hair to increase: and this is done twice or thrice each month, especially when they frequent the Church; otherwise, (as violators of sacred places) they are burnt with fire. They have divers sorts of Artificers; Tailors, Shoemakers, Gold and Silversmiths, and for all sorts of Metals; Painters, Carpenters, Stone-cutters; but not of such wits and exquisite inventions, as in our parts.   

Of Justice among Citizens.  
THey have one Judge as well of Christians as Turks, but always chosen from amongst the Musselmen) to administer equal right to all men. If any kill another, he suffereth death: if steal or violently taketh from another, he is hanged; as it happened to a Janisary, who drunk milk of a poor Woman's, brought to sell, and paid not for it; and accused before the Judge, denied the fact; whereupon, being strerched up by cords at his feet, and about his middle, he forth with vomited the milk, and was immediately by the Judge commanded to be strangled: this happened: in my presence at Damascus, when I travelled from Armenia to Jerusalem. If any commit adultery, the Man is cast into strict Prison; yet after divers months may be redeemed: the Woman is carried about the streets riding on an Ass, beaten naked with whips, stones thrown at her, and a Bull's pizzle tied about her Neck. He that gives a blow, is cut cross the face, and led about the streets for terror. All suits have this good piece of Justice, that right or wrong they last not above three days. Their differences are few, because they buy and sell for ready Money; their chiefest wealth consisting in it: for few have Lands or Revenues, but who command the Soldiery: but generally the Turk 's Law and Equity is in his Sword, and both opppressed and stifled with Fear and Bribery, two potent and prevailing Agents. To spoil, to rob, to kill, to murder, upon design of interest, he says, 'Tis Justice; devastation and destruction of whole Provinces & Kingdoms, he calleth, Peace. And if in aught he advise with Counsel or the great Mufty, 'tis not for substance, but formality of justice, as well assured from gainsaying an opposition.   

Of Husbandry.  
BOth Christians and Musselmen manure and till their Grounds, Vineyards, and Pastures, and have like Fruits and Corn to ours; Wheat, Millet, Barley, Oats, winter-Wheat, Pease, Beans, and all kinds of Pulse, and Rice in abundance; Linen, and Cotten wools, more than these Nations; Vineyards like ours; but use their Grapes in different manner; where we make Wine, the Turk hath a kind of Honey with them; so medicining their Grapes, that both in taste and colour they appear always fresh: other Fruits they have in great plenty; Melons, Cucumbers, Pumpions: replenish well their Fields and Gardens in their seasons: Nuts, Pears, Apples, Peaches of all sorts, Apricocks, Chestnuts, Figs, Lemons, Oranges, Cherries, and suchlike, at small rates; but not in equal plenty in all Kingdoms: and there are some within the Turks Dominion, as Cappadocia, and less Armenia, where, in regard of cold, they have no suchlike Fruitages.   

Of diversity of Cattle.  
THey have Shepherds, (whom they call Sobanlars) always living in solitary places, and every Month remove their stations; they neither have possessions or houses, other than their Tents, and Cattle; as Camels, Mules, Horse, Cows, Oxen, Sheep, and Goats; whom they feed, make Cheese and Butter; shear the Wool, and so make Cloaks, Mantles, and Tapestry, which they sell, and supply thereby their Families with Corn and necessaries. All these Shepherds pay the King tenths of all annual increase; and ●ll Christians further pay Tribute, that live under the Turkish Government, for every Male, one Crown yearly; and, that which is most cruel, their sons unmarried, are taken forcibly from them every fifth year, when their Tents are visited.   

Of Houses.  
THey have no great magnificence of buildings; most of them are of bricks, but differing; some are burned in Furnaces, some dried by the Sun. Their houses are contiguous, like ours in Europe; but in Anatolia, they are flat tabled without elevation; from whence by Gutters, Pipes, and Channels, Rain-water flows down to them. The houses low; none above two stories, and meanly furnished, if not poorly.   

Of their Garments.  
THeir Vestments are made of Wool, Flax, and spun Silk, sufficiently magnificent. They use a Garment (which is called Chaucan) strait, full of plaits, and of length even to their ankles; abhorring breeches, as too much directing to, and expressing privities. Their shirts or smocks are died in colour Violet. Their heads are covered with great rolls of calico, or suchlike stuff, wound about in fashion of Pyramids; which they call Turbans. Women of quality go always with their faces veiled; which are never seen of strangers, or in public places. Their shoes are high, with strong soles, for longer service both of men and women. Some say that Mahomet had a bald or scalded head, which he covered with white linen rolled up, as their Turbans, from thence derived, and still continued, for they never alter fashions. They wear long beards, as tokens of their freedom, all Slaves being shaved. No great difference in habit between rich and poor; but in the stuffs. They are religiously cleanly, and never seen to unburden nature, but always after wash.   

Of Viands.  
THey use, as we, bread white and course, which they sprinkle with certain seeds before 'tis baked, and yieldeth a great sweetness to the eater; which with us is only used in Granada, and about Sivilia in Spain. They use much art and sauces in their Cookeries: but ordinary food is pulse of Rice, so thickened, that it must be parted with the hands: they feed on all flesh but Hogs. There are no Taverns or Inns allowed; yet in the streets, divers sorts of victuals are sold, and all things necessary for man's sustenance.   

Of their Beverage.  
THey have three sorts of drinks: the first made with Sugar and Honey mingled with Water. The second of Raisins, the stones taken out, and boiled in Water, whereto they add some Rose-water, and a little perfect Honey; and this is to be sold in most parts thorough Turkey; for it is sweet, and puffeth up the belly. The third is made of a Fruit (called Pechmez) into Must, and hath a kind of Honey-taste and colour with it; this, mingled with Water, is given to their Servants. The Houses where they sell, are frequented as Osteries in Italy, or Taverns with us. Turk's for the most part drink only Water; they are not suffered to buy or swallow Wines; and who happens to be accused, and proved to have drunken thereof, his testimony in all occasions and actions in invalid: and yet in private Christian houses, they do not abstain.   

Of their manner of eating.  
WHen they go to Dinner, they first strew Mattresses on the floor, and spread upon them Carpets or Pillows; some sit on the bare ground. Their Tables are made of skins, and plaited, to be drawn open more or less, like to a budget. They neither sit, as we do, nor lie along on elbows, as the ancients; but like a cross of Burgundy, with legs enfolded, they sit Taylor-wise. They always Pray before they eat, then eat greedily and hastily, but with deep silence; and in that time their Wives secluded from them. Man-servants after twelve year's age, are never suffered to co-habitate in houses where Women are; but under such age, they go about the houses, serving their Master's occasions. Captive women have never liberty to go abroad, unless their Mistresses or Ladies go to Vineyards, Graves of Friends departed, Baths, or Gardens out of Town (which they often do) for recreation sake; and otherwise are kept strict at work in houses, not suffered to converse with other captive Servants; as shall be more at large declared in the following Chapter. Their dishes are commonly placed at such distance one over another, as 'twere on Pillars, that each man may make choice of three, which pleaseth best. They eat three times a day; but quick therein, unless at a Feast, where they sit all day.    

CHAP. II. Of the afflictions of Captives, and Christians under the Turkish Tribute.  
WHen the King of Turks makes Expeditions against Christians, amongst divers sorts of Merchants, there always follow him on Camels, a mighty number of Buyers or Scorcers of Children or Men, who in hope of getting Slaves, carry with them bundles of long Ropes, wherewith they easily tie together fifty or sixty men. These traders purchase of the Soldiery or Freebooters, whomsoever the Sword hath not devoured; which is granted them, upon condition that the King may have the tenth of what is trafficked for, the rest unto themselves to sell. Nor is there any Merchandise so profitable amongst them, nor so frequent; as anciently among the Romans, who called things fairly bought, their proper Goods and Rights, as just as that of Slaves.  

How the Turks employ their slaves.  
THe youth and aged of both Sexes, whom Chance by tenths appropriates to the Turk, he thus disposeth; the elder in years he sells for Husbandmen, who yet are rarely or cheap bought; for they seldom escape the Sword; their age making them less vendible. Young men and Maidens, they confine them in Seraglios, there to be instructed in useful Arts for future times. But first, they must deny their Faith in Christ, and then be circumcifed. And thus initiated in their Ceremonies, they diligently examine their physiognomies, and the several lineaments of their bodies, and then the whole composure; and according to conceived strength, forwardness of wit, and dispositions, they are destinated to learn Laws of the Country, or discipline of Wars; and in the mean time are allowed a daily stipend of two or three Asper's, sixty whereof make five shillings, which they conceive a liberal sufficiency for diet and clothing, until they are fitted for employments. In the elements of War, they thus are trained, according to each strength: they first have given them a light bow; skill and strength increasing, they have a greater and a heavier; so by degrees they are fitted for expedition. They have Instructors, severe Exactors of their daily Exercises; and whensoever they err much from the mark, so often are they cruelly whipped with scourges. These are enrolled in the order of Bowmen. Others are instructed and made fit for Janissaries, who have appointed Masters and Teachers every day to fight, two together with Cudgels. Others (an horrid thing) who have more lovely faces, are so close cut, that nothing like Man is left them; and this not done without great and eminent danger to life: and if the party escape death, his health is for no other use, but their most wicked lusts; and after youth's grown aged, they are put to the offices of Eunuches, to attend on Ladies, Concubines, Horses, Mules, and some Kitchin-imployments.   

The condition of Virgins and other Women.  
SUch as are of extraordinary beauty, comeliness, or composition of body, are chosen out for Concubines; mean and indifferent Faces, are appointed Matrons, handmaids; amongst whose offices some are so filthy, and so loathsome, as were before (though somewhat uncivilly) related. Others are set to women's work, as spinning, carding, weaving. It is free for none of them to profess the Christian Faith, or hope of liberty during life. There is some content in hope, but these have none.   

How private Turks use Prisoners.  
HItherto hath been spoken how the Kings use Captives; now how private men their Prisoners newly taken: first, they threaten them with all sorts of meancing sharp words, promises, and allurements to entice them to Circumcision; which if yielded to, they are treated somewhat more courteously; but then all hope of ever returning to their Country is clean cut off; and whosoever endeavours it, burning is his appointed punishment. Such as are thought more firm and less fugitive, are admitted to their Master's Military employments, and can only be made free, when age hath made them useless; and then he is rather turned off, then remitted orderly; or when the Master by hurt in War, or danger of death, bequeathes him liberty. They are permitted marriage; but their Children are disposed at the Master's pleasure; which makes the more understanding sort utterly abhor marriage. They who refuse Circumcision, are miserably and unhumanely treated; of which I have had the experience of thirteen year's sufferings: nor can I express in words the great calamities of such people.   

How Christians ignorant in mechanic Arts are used.  
THe condition of such unskilful men is wretched. Those whose toil brings profit, are only in reputation with them: and therefore learned Men, Priests, and Noble men, who have lived in retiredness and pleasures, when they fall into the hands of Turks, are of all most miserable; the Merchant or Manscourser bestows no cost on them, as scant vendible; they walk with naked head and feet, and often their whole bodies; no new  succeed, the old worn out; they are hurried through Mountains, Rocks, from place to place, Winter and Summer, and have no end thereof till death, or that they find a foolish Purchaser, that (they think) buys ill Merchandise; but no man is so happy, or esteemed amongst them, for Age, Art or Beauty, that they being sick will leave behind them. First, they are whipped to go on; if they cannot do that, than they are put on horseback; and there not able to sit upright, their bellies are tied on horseback, no otherwise then a sack of Corn or Cloak-bag; if he die, he's stripped of all , and thrown into the next ditch, to be devoured by dogs and vultures.   

How Prisoners newly taken are used.  
THey do not only bind them in endless chains, but, in their journey, also manacle their hands; they march the distance of a large pace one from another, that mutually they do no hurt; and tie their hands, lest with stones they mischief do their Masters: that when sometimes they lead great multitudes, as ten times five hundred chained together, the strength of whom, if hands at liberty to throw stones, might much annoy them. At night when they rest, their feet are likewise chained, and exposed to all injuries of weather. The condition of Women is a little more humane; they who have strength of limbs, are driven on foot; those more tender, are set on horses; such as are infirm and cannot ride, are put in baskets or ripiers, as we use geese. Afterwards their condition is sadder; either they are included in strong Turrets, or forced to endure the wicked lusts of their Merchants. Where still they are, is ever heard vast and hideous howl of both sexes, suffering violations from them; neither doth the age of leaven or six years, defend them from those vicious actions: a people incomparable wicked, both against nature, and before libidinous.   

How used that are exposed to sale.  
AT the break of day they are brought to Market, like droves of sheep, or herds of goats: Merchants appear, prizes are set; if the prisoner be liked, his  are stripped off, he is viewed by the buyer, all members suveyed, tried and throughly searched for faults in joints or arteries; if he please not, then returned to the owner▪ and this is done until he find a purchaser. When bought, he's carried to some heavy servitude, to blow, keep sheep; omitting base Offices. They endure there many unheard examples of calamities: I have seen men tied together with yokes, to draw the plow. Maidens are severely forced to perpetual labours; separated from the sight of men, nor are they suffered speech or conference with other Servants. If any man be taken Prisoner with wife and children, him some great person willingly purchaseth, to be employed in his Countryhouse, in Tillage, Vineyards, Meadows, Pastures; and Children born of them, are all his Slaves: and if they persevere in Christian Faith, a certain time is allotted them to servitude, and then made free; their Children notwithstanding continue Slaves at the Master's will, and employed where he pleaseth; for they have no certain nor enroled Estates of Lands, and so no assured seats of residence. If after making free, they desire to return to their Country, they have Letters Patents given for their Journey. But to such as abjure the Christian Religion, no certain time of bondage is prescribed them, nor right of return; all hopes of their liberty, totally depends upon the Master's pleasure: and when they have got freedom, they pay the Tenths, as other Turks, but freed from other Taxes with which Christians are burdened.   

Of Captives made Shepherds.  
THe Husband— man hath an hard and sad condition, but the Shepherd far more grievous; they always live in solitariness night and day, covered only with the roof of heaven. The Master and the Wife have some small Tents; no shelter for the Shepherd, unless at spare times compelled to work on Tapestry or Carpets. Every month they change their Pastures, and drive their flocks from one Mountain to another. Some Masters that have more humanity, now and then give small rewards, which the Servant keeps as his proper Goods, and preserves, to bear the charge of a return to his Country, if ever he get liberty; but these largesses are seldom done, and then, but as a miserable enticement to servitude, thinking thereby to withdraw their hopes of shifting from them. To such as deny Christ, and are circumcised, knowing they dare not run away, no like indulgence offered.   

Escapes of prisoners out of Europe.  
European Slaves may more easily escape, than those sold into transmaritime Regions; they pass Rivers only, that may be swimmed over; others, with great difficulty must pass the Hellespont. Such as intent escapes, usually attempt it in Harvest season, to hid themselves in Fields of Corn, and by it live. The Nights they Travel; the Day lie close, in Corn, Woods, or Marshes; and rather choose to be devoured by Wolves, than brought back to their Tyger-Masters.   

Out of lesser Asia.  
WHo fly from thence, repair to the Hellespontick Sea, between Callipolis, and those Towers of Sestos and Abydos, now called by the Turks, Bogaz Aser, that is, Castles on the mouth of the Sea, where the Waters are strait and narrow; hither they come with Saws and Ropes, cut Timber-Trees, and tie them fast together, to serve and save themselves for shipping; carrying nothing with them but salt. If Wind and Fortune favour, in three or four hours they are wafted over; if otherwise, they perish in the Sea, or reforced again upon the Coast of Asia; if safely pass, they then betake themselves to the Mountains, and by inspection of the Pole and the Star Boötes, they tend their way Northward; and sustain themselves with Acorns and Herbs sod in salt. If many fly together in society, sometimes in Night, they set upon the Shepherds, and what they find of Victuals take from them; sometime they kill, and are sometime killed, or taken, and returned to their old Masters and Drudgeries: but the several dangers of travelling, consumes more than escape, by shipwreck, the enemy's sword, wild beasts, and starving hunger.   

The punishment of Fugitives.  
SOme are hanged up by the heels, and most cruelly scourged; and if commit murder, the soles of his feet are all slashed into furrows, and salt stuffed in. Some have great iron Chains, fastened on their necks, and forced to wear them day and night, and as long as the Master pleaseth.   

The charity of Greeks and Armenians to Captives.  
DEath, and confiscation of all sorts of Goods, is inflicted on those who undertake, procure, or assist Captives in their flight, or running away; yet notwithstanding both Greeks and Armenians cease not to entertain them, being Christians, to hid them, and in disguises to conduct them unto shippings of the Venetians or other Christians, and freely give them good provisions and all things necessary for their journeys; nor do they spare or omit any kind of piety towards them; for they confess to have had heard the like experience from Christians charity, when as they travel for conscience sake to Rome or Compostella.   

The Incantation of Turks against Fugitives.  
THey have certain kind of Charms, which they think can draw them off from flying. The name of the Slave is written in a Schedule of Paper, which is hung up in his Tent or House: then with vengeable and horrible Curses, his head is charged and threatened, conceiving this by the Devil's help, the Fugitive will be affrighted with meeting of Lions and Dragons in his Journey, or that the Seas or Rivers will swallow him, the heavens will grow dark, and these astonishments will bring him back again.   

The memory of Christ by degrees lost in former Christian Provinces.  
THere is some memory yet left of the expugnation of Constantinople, the Kingdoms of Greece, Albania, Valachia, and Servia, now reduced to Provinces. These, for a long time, constantly retained the Christian Faith, but their Children have forgot it; and there will come to pass a full oblivion of Christ. And likely it is to fall out so in Croatia, Hungary, and Sclavonia, which are now additaments and adjuncts to the Turkish Empire.   

The condition of the conquered.  
When a Province is subdued and taken, all sorts of Goods movable and  are given away for spoil. They totally extirpate the whole Nobility; but especially the Princely Issue. And when they took John the King's Son of Hungary, and favoured him with life, it was on good advice, that if Hungary were lost again, they might employ and involve him into any new encumbrances; and when the Province should be in a quiet and calm condition, then to dispatch him: for in such respects, the Turk regards neither Kindred, Father or Brother; he spares none. And if they do kill and murder not all Church and Clergymen they take; yet they expose them to all scorn, nakedness and beggary, despoiling them of all their Fortunes, Goods, and Dignities. Their Bells, their Organs, and other Instruments and Ornaments of Churches, Chapels, and Devotions, they raven and tear from the Temples, profaning them with consecration to their Mahomet; leaving only the most miserable and wretched Chapels to the Christians, wherein they are forbid public Prayers, and may pray seemingly in silence: which Chapels, when either Earthquake, Fire. Tempest, or Age destroy, they must in no sort re-edify. Preaching or reading parts of the Scripture is utterly forbidden. It is a sin to admit a Christian to any public Office, to wear, have Arms or habit like a Turk: or else to use the recreations of cheerfulness, as Pageants, Plays, or Dance. If they injure Christ or you, with bitter or contumacious words, you must be silent, and endure it. If you speak aught against their professed Religion. you are forced to circumcision; and but to whisper again Mahomet, Fire and Brimstone followeth. If a Christian on horseback pass by a Musselman, (that is, one initiated in the Turkish Faith) he must, on necessity, light from his horse, and bowing down his head worship him; which if omitted, he strait is knocked down with clubs.   

The condition of Priests and Friars under Tribute.  
THey are held the worst of Men, and are esteemed by Turks the very Sacrilege and Scandal of God and Mankind. They have no benefit from Churches. Upon some festival days, a little bread is given them by poor Women, and not on other days. They get their livelihood by carrying Wood; their custom being, to cut down sticks in Woods, lad them on Asses; and with this Merchandise, they cry about the Streets, Wood to be sold.   

The Tribute of Christians.  
THey pay a part of all increase, not only of Corn and Cattle, but even Mechanics pay it out of all their profits. And then they pay another subsidy, for every single man through a Family, each head a Crown. If Parents refuse this Tribute, their Children are taken from them, and made Slaves. Others are bound in Chains, and beg from door to door to pay this Crown; which if they cannot this way procure, they are cast into perpetual Prison; and when all Duties are performed, it is yet lawful for the Turk to choose the best amongst his Children, whom he circumciseth, and removes from all approach or sight of Parents, and breeds him for his Wars, ne'er to return to Friends; and so a child easily forgets both Christ, his Parents, and his Kindred; that after, if he chance in company with them, he shall not know them. No Man can express by Words, the Lamentations, Cries, Tears and grievous sighs, at this distraction of Children. The Father to see his Son (educated in the fear of Christ) torn from him, and made an Instrument of Satan, to oppose Christ: hurried from his Mother, to live perpetually with strangers, leaving whatsoever is dear in blood, pleasing in society, or loving in familiarity, with an everlasting dereliction: after listed in the ranks of those the Greeks call Fatherless and Motherless; yet many of these although they have denied Christ, carry about them the Gospel of St. John, (In the beginning was the word, etc. in Greek or the Arabic tongue) as an amulet or preservative in their Armpits; and with great desire they expect the Christian Sword (according to some Turkish prophecies) should revenge and free them from those great afflictions and persecutions; and that if Christians do it not, whatever is the cause, or with what minds soever hindered; all very ill deserve of Christian Religion.    

CHAP. III. A Narration of a dispute with a TURK.  
AFter I had traveled with much labour and many dangers the better parts of the world, and seen many pleasant Towns & Countries, as Socrates, Plato, & other Philosophers had diligently done; at length I arrived at the famous City of Hungary, Varadinum, where by chance I met one Dervis Gsielebi, a skilful man in the Laws of Mahomet; who having dispatched his business with the Governor, he very much desired conference with some Christian about Religion on either side. This motion of his being published by an Interpreter, and none for divers days appearing to encounter him, in defence of the Christian cause, though many religious persons were in that Town, (struck mute and speechless at the courage of one Ethnic Infidel) who seemed to me like Israelites, that durst not adventure on one uncircumcised Goliath, provoking them. This I perceiving, and grieving in my spirit, that in such plenty of Clerks and learned men, none was so well armed with Truth, as durst (though by Interpreters) reprove the insolence of such an Heathen; And fearing that so wicked and detestable a silence, in so good a Cause, with so bad a Man, would betray the Truth, and render our Saviour Jesus Christ's Opinion with him more ignominious; I myself, though never called to Ecclesiastical Function, undertook the charge of arguing this point of Piety with him; and so a prefixed day was agreed on between us: when multitudes of people of each Religion, came Spectators of the event. The place was in a Monastery of Franciscans; the day, Whitson-Sunday, day of Pentecost; where he moved to me first this Question: Where God had his being, before the Heavens and Earth, and therein all things else were created? Which Question, though it seemed to me not much pertinent to our purpose, yet lest he should imagine us ignorant of our great God's universal presence, I said, He then was in his own being. But when that seemed to him somewhat obscure, and that he did not sufficiently understand it, I then told him, He was where he now is. Which he understanding, denied in the general, and said, Not so; but that he then was in a bright cloud. Which, when he earnestly affirmed, I quoted Genesis; (for they also read the books of Moses and the Prophets) and said, If God were in a Cloud, before the Foundation of Heaven and Earth, than that Cloud must be created before them both: and upon further argument on this point, being at last convicted, he would dispute no further in it; but gave me leave to propound some Question to him; and for solemnity of that day's sake, I thought fit to say something thereof; and finding these words (In the name of God, his mercies, and the Spirit of them) in their Alcoran, in the Arabian Tongue and Character, I desired him to read them: The mystery of the holy Trinity. Which when he had considered, and wondered at, he said, Christian, from whence had you this? for in the beginning of all our actions, we Musselmen use these three words, and prefix them to every Chapter of our Alcoran; when we sit down to eat, when we go to prayers, when we wash our hands, or other parts of our bodies, these words we first pronounce; and these actions finished, we sprinkle our heads with water, and repeat these words, In the Name of God, his Mercies, and the Spirit of them. When thus he had confessed the Truth, I desired to understand from him what he meant by the word Mercies: who replied, He understood it literally, without other signification. Then I applied myself to the mystical Interpretation, and divided it according to Truth into three Persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, and shown them written in the Arabic tongue. And when he saw I had mentioned the Son of God, he questioned, How God could have a Son? since according to their Law and Doctrine of Mahomet, God had neither Wife nor Child. To whom I answered, according to my weak understanding and capacity; We Christians call God the Father, for his Creatures sake, being the first creating Cause, and sole Preserver of all created, who was for ever in the same Essence he now is in, and will be for Eternity; and is the first Person in the Trinity. We believe the Son, (who by Mahemet in the Arabic phrase is called Rahman, and signifieth Mercies, so changed by him) to be likewise God, not according to flesh (for God is a Spirit) born of a Woman; but of the Essence and substance of God Omnipotent, begotten by God the Father, to put away the sins of the World, and so took humane flesh, by the Holy Virgin Mary, suffered for us, died, and was buried, and according to the say of the Prophets arose again the third day, and ascended into Heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father, there to judge the quick and the dead, to render immortal happiness to those that have faith in him, and to the unfaithful everlasting punishment.  
I than presented him a Crucifix, and said, Behold this now, and see if Mahomet did unworthily call the Son of the eternal God by Name of Mercies, when with Arms thus stretched forth, he calls poor sinners to his embraces, saying, Come unto me all ye that labour, and art burdened with sins, and I will refresh you. And to render him more capable of the Trinity, I pointed to the Sun, saying, You have a fair similitude here: as there is but one Sun, that hath form, heat and light; so there is but one God the Father, who hath Son, and the Holy Spirit, which you call Ru●ahim, consisting of three Persons equally of one substance, and from Eternity coexisting.  
This comparison wrought in him a belief in God the Father, his only begotten Son, and the Holy Ghost; a Trinity in Unity. And when he had heard my weak discourses of God the Father, God the Son, and God the holy Ghost, he much admired, with saying, O God, O God; I, nor any of our Sect, could ever imagine, you had such good thoughts of God; for we conceive you live in darkness of understanding: but by your relation, it seems you have great apprehensions of him; and believe well, if you did not neglect our great Prophet of God, Mahomet. I said, What shall we do with the toys and dreams of Mahomet? for besides Baptism and the mystery of the Trinity, which were had from Christians, we know the Alcoran contains nought that tends to Truth. Then I alleged to him the fancies and silly trifles of Mahomet's two Angels called Arot and Marot, whom Mahomet says, That God did send from Heaven, to minister justice unto mortal men, commanding them to forbid drinking of wine, and unlawful mixtures with women, & to show the ways to heaven to no man. These Angels transgressing Divine Commandment, were defiled, deceived, and made drunk by a Woman, and shown to Mahomet the way to heaven; whom, when God saw there, he asked the Angels standing by, who it was that came in that shape thither? And the Angels telling him it was by the error of Arot & Marot; he turned the Woman into a Star, and sent those Angels chained into a well, to be punished everlastingly. Divers like ridiculous stories I related, as that of the Beast Baraile, who could speak as man, who carried Mahomet to heaven, where himself confesseth to have seen great Angels with many heads, and those speaking many Languages in divers Tongues; which is sufficiently foolish, & unworthy the name of a Prophet; but said, I knew not whether oppressed with Wine, in sleep he dreamt to have seen such miracles, or monstrosities in his imaginations. And therefore when he inserts such follies in his Alcoran, he deserves nor the Title of a Prophet from any reasonable man.  
Having heard this, somewhat abashed, he arose, and would argue no further: but led me into the Temple, and shown me certain Images carved in wood; and asked me, If we did worship those silmilitudes of men, or adore them? I answered, No; think not we worship the stones or timber wherein these figures are engraved; they are used and respected only as records and remembrances to men's minds of the passions and sufferings of our Saviour Jesus Christ, for the redemption of our transgressions: and we worship our true God in mind and Spirit, remembered by that Crucifix; neither are you denied the like remembrances of your great Princes, and famous men, nor we of holy Saints; but 'tis to give God thanks for their examples of holiness, and our prayers to imitate their charity and pieties.  
In these discourse, he spies some dogs walking in the Church, and doing something against an Altar, (an evil custom, and to be condemned by all) and asked whether it was lawful for Beasts to enter our Churches? and blushing with shame, not knowing how to defend this negligence of Christian Pastors, I told him, It was neither lawful nor seemly; and desired him to conceive it a mere negligence of Officers.  
When he heard this, he commended it very much, and desired me to instruct him in our Saviour's Prayer, which I gave him after, in the Arabian Dialect.   

CHAP. IU. A Lamentation for loss of Christians destroyed.  
AFflicted with an infinite and incredible sorrow (most high and mighty Monarches and Governors of Christian Commonwealths) to see the sad condition, and most miserable being of our Brethren under the Turkish slavery; whereof some seduced from the bosom of our Church to heretical unhappiness; others with civil and hostise sword, slain, murdered, and cast to devouring Beasts; others made captive to perpetual servitude, and most cruelly afflicted. They all by me in lamentable sobs and groan complain, O monstrous, mischievous ambition of ill men, and wicked covetousness of ruling! How many equal souls consecrated to God's Divine Worship, have you betrayed to Death and to the Devil? How many Principalities and Kingdoms of great Kings, and all sorts of Nobility, have you destroyed? How many walls of stately Towns have you demolished? How many sumptuous Palaces and strong stately Castles have you leveled with the ground? How many lawful Owners have you dejected from eminent Estates and quiet Conditions, and banished to perpetual disconsolations?  
And although I intent not to write the acts of Princes, but to delineate the calamities and tragedies of Captives, I cannot forbear remembrance of that abominable discord of the Earl of Scrvia, a potent and proud Prince, who agreeing (a shameful foul example of a vicious ambition) with the Bassa of Bosnia, (his neighbour-Enemy) and having many Castles and strong holds upon the Turkish Confines, even to the River Savus, (which divides Illyria from Croatia) and defended all those Provinces which lie between that River and the River Dravus, from Turkish violences and incursions: This Earl or Lord of Servia, falling into variance and some petty controversies with the Nobility of Sclavonia, made friendship with the said Bassa, and joining their Armies both together, invaded the Sclavonians, partly at difference between themselves, and partly impotent; wholly destroys them and their Province with fire and sword, ruining their Towns and Castles, some by violence and force, some by craft and treachery, (customary with wicked men and Turks) and so totally vanquished and conquered them. And after a few Months had passed, this Bassa beholding the Earl's rich Provinces, and neighbouring with his, he took or made occasions to invade him, whom at length he killed; and so reduced all his Territories under the Turkish Government. Thus this seditious Atheist, Traitor to his Country and his Brethren, most ignominiously lost his life: for such are the Turk's rewards to whomsoever by craft, policy, or villainous fraud, he can lay hold on or ensnare. The like was done with some Noblemen of Hungary, whom they reduced to miserable captivity.  
Wherefore (most Christian Monarches) the cruelties of this Tyrant, aught with all industry and vigilance, be both feared and prevented; lest considering your fair Provinces, and viewing them with a fascinating eye, he find you disagreeing, and thereby enfeebled, he assault you on all sides, not only Candia, Calabria, Malta, and Sicily, but even Italy, France, Spain, and Germany; and prove an universal scourge and terror to all Christendom. They are wise, who by others harms prevent their own: you are concerned, when your neighbour's house is fired. But not to trouble you in this kind, I recommend to you, most prudent Governors, the correction and amendment of this great error, and return to the deplorable calamities and afflictions our Brethren suffer under the yoke of Tribute in the Turk's Dominions, where some with chains about their necks, are dragged through sharp and spiny parts of Thracia and lesser Asia, with naked feet, in thirst and hunger: and if by labour of long journeys, diseases, or other griefs they die (as often happens to men of Quality and bred in ease) are hurled stripped in the next ditch, (though not half dead) to the care of ravenous fowls; others, that is, young people of either sex, endure perforce the filthy lusts of their buyers and their fenars, with hideous cries and howl of violated and vitiated people; the age of six years not defending them: others ignorant in husbandry or Mechanic Arts, and literated men (who are least saleable) are for long time driven from Town to Town, from street to street; and being once sold, compelled with clubs and scourges to learn Trades and daily employments in base businesses and grievous pains: others of more robustious strength, are made slaves to Galleys, tied by the legs with chains, and most miserably tortured; whose sad calamities the power of humane wit cannot express in words. And if these poor unfortunate souls, could have foreknown that miserable being, they'd rarther have chosen a thousand deaths. If pains of life and death were e'er commixed together; yea, if to live long and many days, and die every hour, were ever extant, it is in Turkey: Egyptian servitude, Babylonian banishment, Assyriack captivity, Roman destruction, are toys and trifles to these calamities. People, who live as it were in the fiery Furnace of the Chaldean Hur, and crying up to heaven with sighs and groans, O Lord, how long! arise and forsake us not in the end: and when oppressed and grieved beyond all hope, they turn their eyes again on their own Countries, likewise in captivity; yet wish themselves rather slaves there, then where they are: their prayers are not for liberty, but change of place; and for that cause, indifferent for death or life, they turn Fugitives; and some leaving their flocks in deserts, their Oxen at plough, expose themselves to devoration; some murdering their Masters and their Children; some burning their houses in revenge; some run away, hiding themselves in Caves and hollow Trees, with fearful wants and dangers; which I here forbear, having given the Reader some taste thereof before. And now they turn their cries to you all Christian Monarches and Governors of Commonwealths:  
Imploring and beseeching the Pope of Rome, who should be Father of our Country, and all sorts of men belonging to Christ his holy Church, That they uniting all sects of men in peace and concord, would labour to suppress this common enemy, and restore their Brethren unto liberty.  
Imploring and beseeching the Emperor and all Imperial Princes, Dukes, Cities, and Nobilities, to cool their hot Calentures of ambition, and avarice of neighbours rights, and set apart domestic quarrels, & call together and unite their strengths against so cruel an Usurper, and hostile Enemy, and labour to defend their present, or else recover their lost Territories: and then be assured, the circumspection of the Spanish Soldiery, the warlike fierceness of the Belgic Provinces, the quick prudence of the Italian wits, the robustiousness and stoutness of the Germans, will be easily persuaded by the King of Romans, against this universal Enemy; remembering you withal, No Crown sits so gloriously on an Emperor or Prince's head, as that which beareth a true Title of the People's safety and lawful Liberties.  
Imploring and beseeching the most Christian King of France, to employ his helping and heroic Arms, in safeguard (according to his Title) of his Christian brethren's liberties, and his own from Turkish Tyranny.  
Imploring and beseeching the most mighty and potent Kings of England, Poland, Denmark, Swedeland, with all Republics, Cities, and Corporations Christian, to unite, and join in one, their strengths and powers in war against this cankered common Enemy of their Religion, Crowns and Dignities.  
Imploring and beseeching, all sorts of Powers and Authorities spiritual and temporal, to employ their diligence, and show the worthiness of their callings, by correction and amendment of wicked and dissolute lose livers, by whom God's wrath is kindled against us; and to reduce them to holy Rules of Christian Exercises, in living justly, soberly and religiously, and so render God a true account of Stewardship, and prevent the miseries have befallen others drowsy and sleeping inadvertencies.  
Imploring and beseeching both young and old, of all sects and conditions, godly Christians religious and secular, beloved Fathers, dear Brethren, respected Friends, Neighbours, and Companions, That you all, with humble face and countenance, pure and sincere hearts and hands, devout minds, mournful voices, and weeping eyes, condole, grieve, and lament the miseries, the calamities of Turkish captives; and call unto the Lord of Hosts with violence in pity to his people, to avert his anger, and not to give them up to the perpetual rebuke of this wicked Infidel, most cruel Enemy of Christian Religion and Liberty; but to inspire the minds of Christian Kings and Governors, with light of his holy Spirit, to reduce them all to unity and concord, against this ravenous and insatiable Dragon; and grant others such success, that these wretched captives, their Christian Brethren, may be restored to liberty in the worship and adoration of their God, our Christ, and only serve him, who is for ever blessed; that at length the Christian World may be refreshed and eased from such perpetual slavery.   

CHAP. V An Exhortation against the TURK.  
I Have often marvelled with myself, most mighty Monarches, when I considered the advantages which promise Christian's victories against the Turk; and yet inso many years they attempted none, or failed. We have Jesus Christ our God, who in one only night destroyed the host of Sennacherib; who drowned Pharaoh; who with a maiden hand of Judith, struck off th● head of H●l●phernes; and, to be 〈…〉 a God, whose will is victory. Con●●ary to which, they have a Mahomet, a wicked man of life & conversation, in death, yet hanging in his Sepulchre without Resurrection: so as there is as much difference between them, as is between an ever living Son of an ever living God, and a putrid carcase of a son of a mortal man; that if we diligently examine the nature of each Power and Authority, it would appear like dead men, superiors in strength to living. Now in abilities of bodies, capacities, and gifts of understanding, we exceed them; which are good strengths and fortifications against an enemy: and yet we are still defeated. Who is more hardy than the Hungarian? more stout and robustious than the Germane? more quick and nimble than the Frenchmen? more grave and solid than the Spaniard? more cautelous and prudent than the Italian? more valiant and daring then the English? forbearing other Nations, the endowments of whose minds, are better or at least equal. All these abilities seem able singly to get a victory, or at least well to forward it. Courage often without much force, generosity of mind, wisdom, forecast, ambition of honour, and policy, oft subdues an Enemy; yet notwithstanding, wretches as we are, amongst so many victorious attributes, we get no victories. Then if we consider the easy preparation & great furnitures of all sorts of arms, we shall appear far to exceed the Turk. Guns of all sorts have been our own inventions, and the divers kinds of complete harnesses for horse and foot. The Turks, Persians Subjects, naked, or half so, march forth to war: they have bows, we guns; that is, fire and thunder: they have arrows, which hardly pierce an Armour; we Cannons, which Rocks cannot withstand: and yet now some Musselmen have Guns and Gunners; but few, and unskilful.  
Now I pray, what other kind of people use they most in Expeditions? Scythians and Thracians, who have no Italian or Spanish Spirits, only a kind of inhuman fierceness, ignorance and stolidity: to these are added Grecians, lost men with ease and laziness; Asians, corrupt with luxury; Egyptians, no less in mind then bodies, feebled; Arabians, bloodless, thin, and parboiled with the Sun. Who could imagine such-kinde of Soldiery should subdue the great advantages and abilities of those fore named Nations? yet (be it spoken with grief) our Christians by these are overcome, and mastered into servitude, and our great Captains are forced to bear arms against us, who were born and bred by Ancestors to liberty: and in the mean season, the Turk laughs at us, and the Jew rejoiceth.  
Now if I shall consider the Laws and Institutions of Nations, we shall be found abundantly superior in that respect: for, what is more righteous and divine then the Decalogue and holy Gospel, written by God's own Finger and his Spirit? what more regular than the Canon-Law? more just and equal then the civil Law? Whereas the Turks live by Direction & Dictates of the Alcoran; a book of stuff as foolish, as full of vanity; a book of sport and mirth, if pity for the seduced did not allay it; though now spread abroad too much, and handled amongst Christians; so as it may be truly feared, we shall learn other Laws, or shortly lose our own, and turn Turks in our minds and approbations, sooner than in our bodies to their Dominion. What is then the cause, having so many prerogatives of hopeful war, we are always beaten? why are our Ensigns adorned with Crucifixes, fearful formerly to infidels and devils, now trampled on & frighted? I shall tell you in few words, and truth, We have a God most great, most good; but alienated from us so far, that according to the Prophets saying, We scarce are to be named his people: for why should Christ remain with us, whom we have rend and torn in far more pieces, than the Soldiers did his Garment, by our hideous Sects, Schisms and Heresies? Besides his Name, what of him is dear unto us? The very Blow man these times is impudent and factious, the Citizen fraudulent and avaricious, the Magistrate seeks retributions and rewards, the Nobility is riotous and lazy, the Gentry contentious and proud; the Soldier, beyond his pay and spoil, craves nothing from the war; let Sceptres fall as they will, he is no less grievous to friends and companions, than Enemies. Churchmen besides pomp ecclesiastical, have little of the Church; not sanctity, not piety, & some not fitting erudition; seeking their own, not Christ's advancement; that we may say with the Prophet, All have declined the ways of God, and are unprofitable; there's none that doth good, not, even one. Why should we marvel then that Christ is not our Friend? We therefore go to war without a God, and what is more calamitous, with God our adversary. We carry Bibles & Crucifixes with us, but the crucified by his favour converseth with our enemies; our actions therefore perish, & are involved in losses And when one Nation fights against the Turk, another is employed in civil wars, calling to his aid, Pagans, Schismatics or Heretics, more eagerly to oppose Christ; others tend their home-affairs, to indulge themselves in ease & voluptuousness. The soldier sets not forth for Christ, but money; which failing, soon deserts the field, & turns home back again. What have we then from those rich Attributes & Eulogies of Germany, France, England, Spain, & Italy, when the Soldier neglects both God and Honour, and goes to war, as to market, a brothel-house, or stews, to exercise all rapine, spoil, and lewdness? We have good laws, but evil manners; good furniture of arms, but wicked dispositions: it is our glory to fight among ourselves; and if we prove coward to enemies, there follows little shame or punishment. When do we see a Soldier quitting Colours or disbanding, severely handled? which crimes were anciently capital; and whole Legions have been decimated and tyth'd for less offences. We therefore march with men few in numbers, and those corrupt in manners, against millions of men well disciplined; for Tu●ks leave their vices in their houses, from whence we carry ours. In their Pavilions and Tents, no deliciousness; arms only, and necessary provisions: in Christians, all sorts of Table-delicates, luxury and riotousness; and commonly, as many light lascivious Women, as Men. What wonder then if they conquer who are preserved by sobriety, parsimony, diligence, fidelity, and obedience? Let them perish then, who lose a field to get a prey; who are oftener found amongst whores, and drunk, then in good actions: but 'tis the fault and error of Superiors, when Subjects are not kept in due observance; which if Christians were, we could not be inferior to Turks. And yet a greater fault, behold, Princes themselves, while they contend in mutual quarrels, are causes why they cannot muster equal forces against the Turk; for whilst they fight and combat for some little Town or other, after grievous strife, conflictation and exhaustion of men and treasure, they grow weak, impoverished and heartless. What brave actions might those streams of Christian blood have done, which civil wars most impiously have drawn out, emptied, and dried up? But 'tis too late to mourn in complaints: Asia and Africa are lost; Greece, extinguished; Hungary, desperately sick; Illyria and Sclavonia, joined to the Turk; Austria, much enfeebled; and this plague much threatens Germany, and Christianity universal; and that so far, that no great Prince or Monarch ought to be secure, or think himself so free, but that he may be forced to defend his own, without invasion of his neighbour's Territories, whether it please or not; unless they will become of Princes, Servants; of Freemen, Slaves, detained in perpetual chains, or slain and murdered, that their Subjects may want Captains and good Leaders.  
Now, most mighty Monarches and high Governors, for God's cause, banish from amongst you all discord & ambitious tyrannies (which are the Devils instruments to maintain oppressions & impieties, thereby to prolong God's wrath upon you) and restore to each proprietor his due rights and privileges; and then, as Rivers having free course, haste all smoothly to the sea, & make one mighty body; so your strengths united in the bond of peace, would startle, astonish and drown this great Tyrant Turk: which blessing on bended knees, I humbly pray for, and recommend unto the God of Peace. And being reconciled among yourselves, if you would say as Moses said to Joshua, Choose you a man, and go and fight with Amalek; If you would reduce yourselves to this peace and concord, (which is only hopeful) and put your helping hands and powers, toward so greatly honourable, so blessed, so necessary and profitable a war against the Turk; who can imagine, but that ye should at least equal the number of his Soldiery, if not far exceed them? He is now swelled up to the very height of Tyranny, and hath there remained so for divers years, as if expecting, as if waiting an attempt. All full Seas have their ebbings, all ripe fruits are quickly shaken down; there wants nothing to this general and glorious work of Christian Princes, but God's blessing, unanimity, and an Heroic courage, brave and masculine. For the Emperor can with easiness, raise, arm and muster 50000 horse, & 100000 foot; the like may hopefully be expected from France, from Spain, and Italy; the yet remaining parts of Hungary, and Illyria, with the Provinces under the King of Romans, will raise and maintain 60000. These Christian Forces may make 400000 horse and foot, besides, the Maritime great assistances of England, Denmark, united Provinces, Venetians, Portugals, and Swedes, and all other Christian Commonwealths, who, if once unanimous, and freed from jealousies, and petty, wretched, wilful home-contentions, the Turkish power could no more resist ye, than Darius, Alexander; Xerxes, Themistocles; or Antiochus, Judas Macchabeus: and having gotten but one victory, and once passed the Danube towards Constantinople, God being pleased, and our lives amended, these enemies of our faith would easily be trodden down. All Greece and Thrace, (where yet great part retain the law of Christ) expect with greediness the Christian Sword, and readily would revolt upon such occasion, and manfully assault and fight against those Lords and Masters, that have so cruelly afflicted them: which circumstance alone, would much hasten, if not perfect a speedy victory.  
I would to God, and wish hearty, most Christian Monarches, That your civil, fruitless, home-contentions, would permit and suffer you seriously to consider, and calmly to examine these offered motions; you then would find all men's wills and arms concur with yours; no age, no sex, no conditions of men would leave your Ensigns: Each Turk would have his Executioner at home, his Traitor in his Tent, and fugitive in the field. All Christians amongst them have contemptuous opinions of their arms, and know them only fitted for light Skirmishes, and Pickerings; who, if their noise, like shoals of clamouring Rocks, affright you not, they fly. And whensoever it shall please God to root out from amongst us these perpetual Enemies of his faith, and send them to their old lurking holes and caves, and corners in Bythinia, by the Christian Sword, (according to some of their own Prophecies) or else to reduce them to the bosom of our Catholic Church; no man can doubt, but in short time the Emperor will be seated in his chair at Constantinople, and invested in his Imperial Roman Territories; The King of Romans reestablished, and recover Hungary, and Thrace; France, lesser Asia; England, part of Egypt; Spain, part of Africa; Italy, all Shores and Banks of the Mediterranean Seas; and last, the Pope, as a great Pastor of the Christian Church, will be extolled & magnified for such an union.  
These are the apprehensions of all Christian captives under the Turkish Tribute, and even Turks themselves, who have knowledge and long acquaintance in military affairs. And this myself have learned by thirteen year's experience, The Turk is valiant against a flying, and flying against a valiant Enemy; when therefore he by nature is fugitive, impiety flies without pursuit. Let God arise and scatter all his Enemies: let those that hate his Doctrine, avoid his presence: let them like smoke vanish, and melt like wax against the fire: so may all Infidels perish, before the face of God and his holy Church, that there may be but one Flock, and one Pastor, Jesus Christ the righteous. Which grant, Oh ever blessed Trinity and Unity, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost.  
Amen.   

Contents.  

OF Oratories. pag. 1.  
Lent. pag. 6.  
Circumcision. pag. 8.  
Priests. pag. 11.  
Monks. pag. 13.  
Reverence to Mahomet's Traditions. pag. 15.  
Schools. pag. 16.  
Contracts of Marriage. pag. 17.  
Of Strangers. pag. 19  
Miracles at Mecha. pag. 20.  
Of Alms. pag. 23.  
Sacrifices. pag. 24.  
Wills and Legacies. pag. 25.  
Ceremonies of the dead. pag. 26.  
Of a Sepulchre called Tulbe. pag. 27.  
Concerning War. pag. 29.  
Condition of Noblemen. pag. 31.  
Bassa's and Councillor's. pag. 33.  
The obedience of Turks to their King. pag. 34.  
How strength diminished. pag. 36.  
Of Chazalars. pag. 37.  
Order of foot. pag. 38.  
Pavilions of Turks. pag. 40.  
Carriage of Beasts. pag. 42.  
Justice in war. pag. 44.  
Celebration of Turkish Victories. pag. 45.  
Of hunting. pag. 46.  
Artificers and Husbandmen. pag. 48.  
Justice amongst Citizens. pag. 49.  
Husbandry. pag. 51.  
Diversity of Cattle. pag. 53.  
Of Houses. pag. 54.  
Garments. Ibid.  
Of Viands. pag. 56.  
Drinks. pag. 57  
Manner of eating. pag. 58.   

CHAP. II.  
Afflictions of Captives. pag. 60.  
Employment of slaves. pag. 61.  
Women and Virgins. pag. 64.  
Private Prisoners. pag. 65.  
Artless Prisoners. pag. 66.  
Prisoners newly taken. pag. 68  
Exposed to sale. pag. 69.  
Shepherds. pag. 71.  
Fugitives out of Europe. pag. 73.  
From Asia. Ibid.  
Their punishment. pag. 75.  
Armenians charity. Ibid.  
Incantations of Turks. pag, 76.  
Memory of Christ lost. pag. 77.  
Condition of the conquered. pag. 78.  
Priest and Friars. pag. 81.  
Tribute. pag. 82.   

CHAP. III.  
Narration of a dispute. pag. 85.   

CHAP. IU.  
Lamentation. pag. 97.   

CHAP. V.  
An Exhortation. pag. 109.   
FINIS.