• 1 A discourse of the auntient and first beginning of the Spaniards.
• 2 Their religion and language.
• 3 The auntient and (may be) fabulous kings and captaines of vagabond troups in Spaine, vnto Ge­rion, and so to Hercules the Great.
• 4 Many petie kings, or Italian pirats, spoyling Spaine.
• 5 Discourse of the absurdities of these antiquities.
• 6 Greekes spoyling Spaine.
• 7 Affricanes entring and wasting Spaine.
• 8 Confusion and medley of the people which vsurped the countrey of Spaine.
• 9 Phenicians and Gaditanes, their ofspring.
• 10 A Chorographicall description of the firme land of Spaine.
• 11 Islands about Spaine.
• 12 Distinction of the gouernments of Spaine, according to the Romans and Carthaginians, and others after them vnto the Arabians.
• 13 Distinction of the kingdomes of Spaine, which are now of fame.
• 14 The fertilitie of Spaine, both antient and moderne.
• 15 The manners of the antient Spaniards, and of those which now hold it: their armes and discipline.

1 THe beginning and antiquitie of nations farre fetcht,The beginning of nations are fabulous for the most part. is alwaies fabulous: for most of them that haue vndertaken to write hi­stories, either generall, or particular of some one nation, haue thought it expedient (for their reputations) to offer a perfect worke vnto the world; and not to passe any season without some memorie of them of whom they write: imagining that the studious Reader would hold it an argument of their sloth or negligence, to leaue any thing in blancke. And therefore when as they wanted the testimonie of graue authors, they haue countenanced their owne imaginations; or haue imita­ted the fabulous inuentions of others, imploying their time, toyle, and eloquence in vaine things: wherin they may hap­ly satisfie some curious heads, but not such as desire to leame. For as a lye cannot be so disgui­sed, but either the conference of ages doth discouer it; or a spirit knowing the force and effect of things created, doth reject it; or the religious condemne it, as it is fit; when it shal once ap­peare that the author of any historie hath supposed things doubtfull and vncertaine, for true, thereby to enlarge his volumes. He that is studious, and loth to loose his time, growes discon­tented, [Page 2] and reads it with distast.Truth the sub­iect of a History Wherefore men of best judgement, hold, that the subject of a historie is truth, in serious matters, and worthy to be imparted to posteritie; giuing libertie to them that write, to season the examples with praise or blame: obseruing the rewards & pu­nishments which haue followed, without respect of persons, or yeelding to any passion, either of loue or hatred, but stirred vp by the merits of vertue, or the horror of vice; to the end that such as read their writings,The end of rea­ding histories, is to follo [...] vertue and to flie vice. may be encouraged by the worthy acts of some, to liue vertuously, and diuerted by the dishonour and vnfortunat successe of others, from all bad affections: and the rather, for that they do therein find imitable steps of vertue. And for that the memorie of many things is buried in obliuion, or miscaried, they haue not been so strict, as to forbid them that find themselues ingaged in the desars and obscuritie of the antiquitie of nations, to ob­serue some steps, and go by probable conjectures, to a way passable. This is allowed them, so as they doe it by constraint, and with judgement; remembring, that a good huntsman can judge of a wolues footing from a dogs, which are something like.

The historie of Spaine, which we resolue to write, is herein defectiue, as in a manner all o­thers be:Spaine vnknown before the Car­thaginians. for before the comming of the Carthaginians into that country, and the wars of the Romans, it cannot be directly said, by what people Spaine was held, nor at what time, nor by what policie it was gouerned, but by ill grounded conjectures. For of the acts of the first men which were dispersed vpon the face of the earth after the deluge, we haue no author but Moy­ses, who is carefull to describe the estate and succession of the Hebrues, in that chiefely which concernes the establishing of the Church of God. Of other nations he speakes but by occa­sion, and as God would doe good vnto this nation by them, or punish it for their ingratitude. Wee must not then seeke for any mention of Spaine or Spaniards in him. The Grecians had so little care of other nations, & haue so much respected their own, as they haue scarce vouch­safed to speake of them, but with contempt; and to amplifie their own glorie, they haue some­times fed the Latines with fables: who haue adorned and enriched their Rome and Italie, and haue had care to proclaime their gests,The Grecians authors of lyes. making vse (in regard of antiquitie) of Grecian fa­bles, or of conjectures; as the moderne haue in like manner done. What can we then do in matters which are so doubtfull, but onely touch these conjectures as farre as they shall seeme receiuable; passing that slightly ouer, which the Historians haue written of our first Spaine, to the end we busie not our selues in a vaine labour more than is fit.

Wherefore, according to Iosephus report, and vpon their consciences which haue supposed vnto vs a Berosus, Tubal. we say after many others, that Tubal, one of the sonnes of Iaphet, otherwise called Iubal, or Iobel, is father to the Spaniards, although it be verie likely, that he neuer set foot in Spaine, being then a countrey without a name: but that from Armenia or the neigh­bour places, taking his way towards the North, he stayed in a region since called Iberia, situ­ated vpon Mont Caucasus, which couers it from the North, betwixt the Caspian and Eu­xine seas: a countrey then inhabited by them which we call Georgians, whereas afterwards the Chalibes, or Alibes were, a name approaching to Iubales, as some would wrest it, chan­ging some letters, as it happens in the corruption of tongues. These people were Smithes, handling yron, whereof the countrey abounds, and applying it by their art to many good vses. The descendants of Iubal in these places, were afterwards called Iberians, and the country Ibe­ria, by some man of qualitie which caried that name, and whose memory they would preserue, as it is likely. From thence the most receiuable authors doe maintaine, that the Iberians Spa­niards parted some ages after Tubal, or Iubal, and that the people being so multiplied, as the countrey could not well feed them, nor containe them, a part of them were constrained either by force, or by casting of lots, to abandon the place, and seeke some new abode: the which hath beene ordinarie among all nations, and in all ages, but especially in the first age, when it was necessarie the world should be peopled and inhabited: and it is credible, that nature was at that time wonderfull fruitfull, God prouiding for the propagation of mankind. The com­mon opinion is, that these Iberians hauing wandred much, being arriued vpon the frontiers of the region whereof we treat, staied in the vallies of those mountaines, which were since called Pyrenee,Pyrenee moun­ [...]taines full of yron mynes. and that they did liue long there, finding them fit to entertaine them in their first in­clination and breeding: for that country abounds in yron mynes as much as any in Europe; and therefore they found means wherewith to imploy themselues, and to feed, for that these mountains were ful of all things wherof these new come men, and ill prouided, had need, that [Page 3] is to say, chestnuts, hazlenuts, pears, plummes, cheries, and all other wild fruites, with great store of acornes, especially towards the West parts.

2 That there was either good religion,The first Spani­ards were grosse, without art or religion. knowledge, gouernment, or any thing else, but great simplicitie, ignorance, and pouertie, we can hardly beleeue: and wee persuade our selues, that ciuilitie, industrie, experience and knowledge of valour and profit of things, was taught them by necessitie, the mistresse of Artes, and by strangers which came into their countrey from Phenicia, Aegypt, Greece, Carthage, Gaule, and elsewhere; to whom they were for a long time a prey, and in the end they learned armes, and many other malicious practises, whereof they had the root in their hearts, but grosly planted. As for religion, wee shall find by this discourse, that it was most barbarous and infamous among them. And who doubts, but the successours of Tubal did suddenly forget the true God, and his pleasing seruice, seeing this corruption did so soone enter among the sonnes of Sem, and namely those of the family of Heber, of whom the Eternall did frame his chosen people and his church. I wil not busie my self to contradict them which belieue, that their first language was that of the Biscanes in those times; discoursing, that seeing it hath so long maintained it selfe in that proprietie, and that it cannot be discerned that this tongue hath taken any tearms from other auntients,Biscane tongue verie antient, & held the first the Spaniards vsed. nor from other nations which inhabit about their countrey, with whom not­withstanding they conuerse and traffique, wee must beleeue that there is something verie re­markable in this language, and thereby conclude, that it was one of the first tongues which did confound the builders of Babel, and by consequence the whole world, God being pleased to haue preserued in Spaine this note of the first inhabitants thereof. Admit it be so, and that the Bascongade, which the Biscanes at that time did vse, a part of Nauarre, and they of Alaua, are the first, or of greatest antiquitie vpon the frontiers of Spaine.

3 Let vs be no lesse difficult to beleeue the opinion of a certaine Spanish doctor,Coniectures vp­on that Sepha­rad did hold Spaine. who maintaines, That one of the nephewes of Sem, or else of Cham, called Sepharad, came along the coast of Affricke to the strait, and hauing crost it with great troups, he did people the bankes of the Ocean and the Mediterranean seas, whereas the riuer of Guadalquiber doth ingulph, grounded vpon that the Hebrews call the Spaniards Sepharadin, & that they may apply the beginning of many names of towns, riuers, islands, and mountains of the countrey, to the He­brew, Caldee, and Syriake tongues; as Gaddir, Sepyla, Betis, Calpe, Auila, and the like. All this is not strange, although there were no danger to deriue these names from the Phenicians, who vsed the Syrian tongue, and had great affinitie with the Hebrew which was vsed among the Iewes, a nation also of Syria: and to beleeue that they were brought into Spaine by the Tyrians and others which inuaded those quarters, when they came to spoyle the treasures thereof. That Spaine hath alwayes from the beginning beene peopled in two seuerall parts, vpon the East and Pyrenee mountaines by the Iberians of Asia, and Caucasians descending from Tubal; and towards the South at the strait, by Sepharad and his troups, which came out of Syria and Affricke: and that of either side,Iberians gaue the name vnto Spaine. as the people multiplied, they aduanced farther into the countrey: we may vndoubtedly beleeue, that those of the Pyrenee mountaines pas­sing the vallies by little & little on the West side, did people such a part of the country as they gaue their name to the first nauigable riuer, and to the whole region, celebrating the memory of their natiue countrey, and of this Iberus, of whom they were named, whatsoeuer he were.

4 Among the most auntient captains or kings of this vagabond nation, they make mention of one Idubeda, of whom the mountaine of Iubalda, or Idubeda, might be named,Idubeda. whereof we will speake hereafter. Then they produce Brigus king or gouernor of these troups,Brigus. who began a ciuile gouernment, and built (as they say) many castles in Spaine, which carried the marks of his name, all in a manner ending in Briga, as Nemetobriga, Mitobriga, and such like, by rea­son whereof he carried painted in his standard a castle (although the skill to blaze Armes was not then well knowne:) and the authors of the Spanish antiquities say, That of him the assem­blies of people were called Brigies, and afterwards Brigues, and Brigades: the which did so multiplie vnder his gouernment and conduct, as they were forced to send whole armies out of the countrey, to seeke new habitations; wherof some of these Brigues comming into Thrace, and then into Asia, they brought the name of Brigie thither, the which since by corruption hath beene turned into Phrigia: and that Castille, now called Viegia, was in old time tearmed Brigia, and that the new Spanish tongue hath since turned it into Biegia, [Page 4] calling it Castille la Biegia, in stead of Brigia. For my part I beleeue, that this word Briga, was brought into Spaine by the Celtes,Coniectures that the Celtes were mingled with the Iberians from the beginning. which did hold a great part of that countrey, for that it is of the language of the old Gauls, by the which was signified people, town, or assembly. More­ouer, there were many townes in France, which had their names deriued from it; as the lake Brigantin vpon the Alpes, which is that of Constance at this present; and Brigantium, which is Brianson in Daulphine; the Latobriges neere vnto the Suisses, and others, wheras the Cel­tes did in old time inhabit. And if there were a king so named, it is verie likely he was a Gaule, captaine of some troupe of Celtes, in whose time there were great alterations of people, and by consequence ambitious thefts,To rob was pra­ctised by the an­tients. the best exercise the noble men then gaue themselues vnto. This is what may be spoken of this Brigus.

After whom Tagus was famous,Tagus. from whom it may bee the riuer Tayo tooke her aun­tient name. Hee following the steps of his predecessour, sent many superfluous and vnne­cessarie troupes out of Spaine, to seeke new habitations, whereof some past into Asia.

Betus came after,Betus. who was also called Turditanus, hee gaue that name to the countrey which is betweene the holy Promontorie, now called Cape S. Vincent, and the riuer of Guadalquibir, the which was also called Betis: and in succession of time did communicat that name to a great part of the neighbour countrey, whereof they did afterwards name one of the chiefe prouinces of Spaine. In regard of him that countrey vpon the strait towards the West and South, began to be famous, and knowne to strangers, especially to the Aegyp­tians, and other Affricanes, nations which were then mightie and warlike, and withall cun­ning and politique, good mariners, and abounding in ships, to whom the entrie into this part of Spaine did offer it selfe, and was more commodious than any other. And therefore the names of other inhabitants within the countrey, did for a long time after remaine ob­scured and vnknowne. They doe attribute some lawes and policie vnto this Betus, and the bringing in of some learning into Spaine, but what it was, is vnknowne.

5 To confirme that which is said, That in the raigne of Betus strangers began to tast the riches and commodities of Spaine: Authors report, that presently after his death, a captaine, mightie in shipping and men, came out of Affricke, landed in Turditane, and seised thereon. Hee was a Libian,Gerion. and was called Gerion, and by some Deabus, surnamed by the Greekes Chrysee, as one would say, of gold, or gilt; by reason of the treasures he gathered by violence and tyrannie.Strange princes tyrannize spain For knowing that Spaine was full of mynes of all sorts of mettals, he became curious to search for them, forcing the people to worke with such rigour, as if they had beene brute beasts; many fainting vnder their burthens, ended their miserable liues: so as the brute of his crueltie (an inseperable companion to couetousnesse) infected in a manner the whole earth, in places most remote, and was abhorred of all those that had any feeling of humanitie.

Osiris Denis then raigned in Aegypt,Osiris who mooued with pitie, and of a generous spirit, came into Spaine with a great armie of Aegyptians, Syrians, Arabians, and other neighbour nations, to ruine this detestable tyrant; whom he vanquished in battell, and slew: which is the first that was giuen in Spaine, that any mention is made of since the deluge. And for that he came neither to conquer,A iust cause of warre to deliuer the oppressed. nor to enrich himselfe, being mooued with a zeale of justice, hauing setled the affaires of the countrey, he deliuered the seigniorie of the Turditanians to three of his children, who had beene punished for his wickednesse, admonishing them not to follow the wretched auarice of their father, least their ends were like vnto his. Some Arabians Scenites of his troupe, would needs remaine in Spaine, to whom he assigned the countrey about Cape Saint Vincent.

Neere vnto it (and where as the riuer Anas disgorgeth it selfe) dwelt the Curetes,Curetes. discen­ded from Curis, nephew (they say) to Champ among the Tercenian, or Tartessian forests, which did run along the shore vnto the island of Gadir, then called Tartesse (in our time Ca­lis:) in which island Gerion was interred,Gadir and Tar [...] ­tesse. the first of any dead bodie that was put in the ground in Spaine; for before the custome was to cast dead carkasses into the sea, or into ri­uers, or to hang them vpon trees, or else they left them in the fields.

Osiris left in this island a sister of his, called Erythree, who (it may be by one of these young Gerions) had a sonne called Norac, Nora the first habitation in Sardinia. who (as some say) did build Nora, the first mansion in the island of Sardinia.

[Page 5] These three young princes, who were called Lominians, were so like in face and manners, and did agree so well together, as the Poets haue fained, that they were but one king which had three bodies. They gouerned their subjects with more modestie than their father. Ima­gine that the feare of punishment kept them in awe, yet could they not so subdue their coura­ges, but they sought all vnworthie meanes to reuenge their fathers death.The desire of re­uenge a brutall vice in man. Wherefore the seas being now open to the Turditanes, & commerce brought in from the West to the East, they had secret practises with Tiphon, whom they knew to be ambitious, and procured him to kill king Osiris his brother, and to seise vpon the kingdome of Aegypt.

Osiris left many children,Hercules Oron. among the which was Hercules the Great, whom they surname the Aegyptian Apollo, Mars, & Oron: by him the Gerions Lominians receiued a worthie reward for their ingratitude. For hauing gathered together a great armie of diuers nations, he past in­to Spaine, whereas these three brethren were readie to make head against him: yet Hercules grieuing that so much innocent bloud should be spilt for the offence of three men,Great equitie of Hercules the Aegyptian. he offred to fight alone with them all three in single combats: which being accepted by the Gerions, they lost their liues. They say, that this passage of Hercules, was at the same time when as Iacob and his family went into Aegypt, or a little before. By this victorie Hercules was receiued and ho­noured of the Turditanes, and other Spaniards: who after that he had setled their affairs, and planted two pillars vpon the straits, the one in Europe, and the other in Affricke; and two o­thers in the island, since called Gadir: which some hold were towers, and not pillars, for a marke and testimonie of his conquests and toyles, he tooke his course towards Italie, leauing the gouernment of Spaine to one of his captaines called Hispal, which some will haue to bee his sonne.Hispal sonne to Hercules. They say also, that he left in those islands, which are now called Majorca and Mi­norca, a Gouernour called Balee, of whom they since tooke the name of Baleares: although that most men beleeue they were so named, for that the inhabitants were expert in slings.

Hispal remaining Gouernour of this part of Spaine, which is at the straits and thereabouts neere vnto the two seas (for as we haue said, those that liued within the countrey, had not felt much of these forraine inuasions) he began a towne called by him Hispalis, since named Sepi­la,Hispalis or Se­uille. and at this day Seuille.

Hispan succeeded him,Hispan. a wise and an actiue man, and a louer of vertue, as they write of him: and we must beleeue that he was some great personage (if there were euer any such in being) seeing the whole region whereof we treat hath retained his name, and preserued it in such sort as it hath not beene changed since. Others notwithstanding acknowledging in no sort this Hispan to be the author of the name which hath remained to Spaine,Spaine why so called. affirme, and it may bee not rashly, That it came of the people of Iberia in Asia, the which in old time was called Pa­na, of the name of one Pan, who gouerned there vnder his father Liber: and therefore this of Europe was indifferently called Iberia and Pana: but those that came after, corrupting the word, did adde some letters, and called it sometimes Spana, and sometimes Spania, as in truth the Latines did name it in the beginning, terming it Spania, and not Hispania. The Spaniards comming afterwards to imbrace the Roman tongue, added an E, and called it Espania, as they haue beene accustomed to do to all Latine words which begin with S; as Escola, Escala, Escu­do, Escriber, and the like. These Iberians did also call themselues Abasgi, whereof it may bee came Vasco, Basco, and Bascongado. Such as beleeue that Hispan raigned in Spaine, say, That he was the first which tooke the royall diademe, and that he caused towers to bee built in the island of Tarlesse, and in Galicia, which they call Phares, or Beacons, for the helpe of saylers: yet others hold with more reason, that that in Galicia, which is yet standing, was the worke of Octauius Caesar.

Hercules hauing done many great exploits in Italie, he left Atlas Kitin there to gouerne, ca­rying back his brother Hesperus, Hesperus, of whom Italie and Spaine are na­med. he returned into Spain, where he found Hispan deceased: wher­fore he himselfe did gouerne it in person for many yeares, and dyed there, as they say. His bo­die was buried in the island of Tarlesse, where at that time the kings court was, in a sumptu­ous and stately tombe.

After him raigned Hesperus, Atl [...]. brother to Atlas Kitin, of whose name they say that Spaine and also Italie were called Hesperies; that is, Italie Hesperia the great, and Spaine the later He­speria, for that he raigned sometime both in the one and the other. But Atlas enuious of his brothers greatnesse, came with an armie and dispossessed him of the kingdome, forcing him [Page 6] to flie into Italie, from whence Hercules had brought him: where hee was well entertained, and raigned. The which Atlas vnderstanding, hee suffered him not long quiet, but re­turned into Italie with a good number of Spaniards, and chased him away; meaning to hold Italie as his royall seat, and Spaine as an accessarie, to draw gold, siluer, and all other com­modities from thence.

Atlas parting from Spaine,Oris. he left the gouernement to Oris his sonne, who was called Sit Oris, Sic seruing as a fore-name.Sigro [...]. Of him they say the riuer Sicoris, now called Sigro, was named: the which passeth by Lerida, and falls into Ebro. But no man can tell vpon what occasion he was so called, nor how hee extended his limits thither, being so farre from the straits, and isle of Gadir.

Anus succeeded Oris, Anus. whom they also called Sicanus, and of his name the riuer of Guadi­ana tooke the auntient denomination. Wee must conjecture, that his predecessour Oris did establish some estate and principalitie, or made some fort and retreat about the riuer of Si­gro, whereof this that succeeded him had the first gouernement: seeing they place along the bankes thereof,Sicanians Spa­niards. the people which are called Sicanians, so named of this Sicanus, who it seemes were his souldiours, and the troupes which he commaunded. Some of those bands hauing past into Italie, to helpe their countrey-men, which had beene led thither by Atlas Kitin, and hauing inhabited the countrey of the Latines (which is the territorie of Rome) they were there encountred by the naturall Italians. Passing on, they carried the name of Sicanians,Siclle, why cal­led Sicania. into the island then called Trinacria, and since Sicile: into the which, they say, that Sicanus past in person, hauing in Italie fought with the Ligurians, Oenotrians, Lestri­gons, and others: and that he was there encountred by the Cyclopes, cruell and barbarous men, who would not suffer the Sicanians to come and dwell in their island: but they were forced to yeeld.

Siceleus the sonne of Sicanus raigned in Spaine,Siceleus gaue the name to the isle of Sicile. after his father, and passed in like manner into Italie and Sicile, where he changed the former name, calling it Sicile, the which it holds. The occasion of his passage, was the controuersie betwixt Dardanus and Iasius, his cousins, sonnes to Electra the daughter of Atlas, for the rule of Italie; the which he reconciled. But Dardanus hauing afterwards slaine Iasius his brother treacherously, Siceleus pursued the re­uenge so vehemently, as Dardanus was forced to abandon the countrey, and to go into Samo­thracia, and then into Asia, to seeke a new habitation. This mans raigne concurres with the time that God sent plagues vpon the Aegyptians, by Moyses and Aaron.

Siceleus being dead,Lusus, of whom comes Lusitania. his sonne Lusus held the scepter of Spaine; of whose name some will haue Lusitania (a part therof) to be called. He past also into Italie, and at his returne brought many Italians into Spaine.Vlus. Where, after him, Vlus, or Siculus, his sonne, raigned: whom they called Neptune, for that he entertained many ships and gallies at sea. He past, as his predeces­sors had done, into Italy and Sicile, to succour the Spaniards which were seated in those regi­ons, against whom the Cyclopes and others of the countrey renewed the wars. After him ma­ny stranger thrust into Spaine, vpon diuers occasions, but for one only cause, which was, for spoyle, being easie to take, by reason of the simplicitie of the Spanish people.

Hee that shall consider duely hereof, will not thinke it to agree with that which we haue said before, as in truth it doth not: For if these kings (of whom we haue made mention since Atlas) which haue raigned, according to Historians and Croniclers, for two hundred and fiftie yeares, haue not onely had the meanes to defend Spaine from strangers, but to lead forth many armies, and to subdue the people of Italie and Sicile; to make themselues vm­piers of kings quarels, to build townes there, and to commaund the seas: and that from Spaine to Italie, and from Italie to Spaine, the passage and commerce was ordinarie: How could it be, that so soone after the death of Siculus, the Spaniards should grow so simple and vnwarlike, as if they had neuer seene armes? And that it was in the power of the first py­rat that came from Affricke, Phenicia, or Greece, to seise vpon it, and insult ouer them, with­out any resistance? Had they learned nothing? had they gotten no courage in so many warres which they had seene in Italie? What was become of those captaines which these late kings had so happily imployed? had they all cursed their countrey, or found some Lethe floud, to make them forget it, and to stay in Italie? Or if they were dead, did they leaue no discipline, nor any impression of vertue in their youth? It is not likely, and there­fore [Page 7] we must put all these discourses among idle tales, or find some meanes to vnfold this difficultie. Euery one hath free libertie to discourse: For my part I beleeue, that these men which they say had reigned in Spaine since Atlas, haue beene Italians, acknowledging the Soueraignetie of Italie, and gouerning Spaine as a subdued Prouince: or else respecting onely their profit, they made voyages like vnto pyrats, shearing them to the bloud, and then carrying their spoyles into Italie, employing the lewdest people in the countrey to oppresse the rest; and in the meane time, through the fauour of some fort, which they did maintaine to assure their landing and their shipping, they caused themselues to be called Kings. Then seeing that the Spaniards (which had joyned with them to doe ill) did multiplie too fast,What the first kings of Spaine were. or grew more cunning than was fit for their purpose, they found meanes to embarke them, and to send them into Italie vpon some vaine hopes, whereas being once arriued, there was no more any meanes to returne into Spaine. Such in my opinion were the armies which those kings led out of Spaine into Italie, that is, troupes of theeues, of whom they would be as­sured, that they should not conspire against them, nor take their practise from them, after they had instructed them in their trade. By these subtile practises they did spoile Spaine both of men and treasure, holding the grosse and rude multitude in ignorance, and setling an opi­nion in them, that they were good men, and louers of justice; yea religious, for that they dealt in the pacifying of controuersies, which happened among the people, and sometimes they payed vowes, or made some superstitious dedication of a Temple or Chappell.Religion is a cloake for Ty­rants, with the rude multitude. I say moreouer, That those which we haue before named were not alone, which made this worke in Spaine; but in their times, and whilest they were busie in one part, other nations did the like in some other quarter of the countrey. So as it is no maruell, seeing the Spaniards had yet no meanes to see a lawfull and setled Estate among them, and that those which did gouerne them, had alwayes this affected end, to entertaine them in their simplicitie; an assured marke of Tyrants. So as the race of these men fayling, this poore nation was pre­sently made subject to the first that did inuade them, the children proouing as vnable as their fathers.

6 They report, That about that time some Greekes of the Island of Zante, in old time called Zacynte, arriued vpon that coast whereas since the towne of Valencia was built, and there made a little fort, or store-house, for their traffique, the which they called Zacynthium; the which did since encrease in people and building, and became a good towne, from whence Sagunte had her beginning,The beginning of Saguntum. renowmed for the loyaltie of the citizens to the people of Rome, and for the occasion which shee gaue of the long and bloudie warres betwixt the Romanes and the Carthaginians, which they called the second Punicke warre. These Zacynthians traf­fiquing with them of Iberia, which dwelt within the countrey, and were neighbours to the mountaines, did receiue from them gold and siluer, little esteemed by these simple men, for that these mettals grew in their countrey, giuing them in exchange trifles of small value: so, as growing rich in a short time, they published among the other Grecians, and among the nations of Asia, the fame, happinesse, and aboundance of treasure in Spaine, inciting ma­ny thereby to goe and discouer the countrey, and to attempt something. And for that (as we haue said before) religion hath alwaies beene a lure for cunning and malicious men to assure the simple, to whom they intend some mischiefe, these Zacynthians caused a good­ly Temple to bee built to Diana, in the place which is now called Denia, according vnto some, but falsely, prouiding by that meanes and maske of religion, for their Zacynthium, which they had built vpon that coast, that by the reuerence of this Temple they might be assured from all violence.

7 In the meane time an Affrican called Testa seized vpon Gadir,Testa. and of all the maine land thereabouts, calling himselfe king of Spaine. It may be that of his name they were cal­led Contestans, which did inhabit along the bankes of the Mediterranean sea, whereas Mur­cia and Carthagena are at this present.

After him he left the gouernment to his sonne Romus, Romus. to whom they attribute the building of the towne of Valencia (yet Titus Liuius doth not make it so auncient) the which was first called Rome, of his name, since by the Latines, holding this name to be Greeke, they turned it in their language to Valencia, which was all one; for Rome in Greeke, and Valencia in old Latine, is power and force.

[Page 8] In this kings time there came a pyrat into Spaine, well followed by men of his owne sort, who spoyled the whole countrey adjoyning vnto the sea, and then hee returned with his spoyles,False Denis. leauing an opinion of him, that hee was the father Liber Denis, or Bacchus: for the custome of those obscure times was, That great pyrats and heads of vagabond people (where­of the world did then abound) did take vpon them the names of great personages and fa­mous men, who had gone before them, and whom foolish superstition had deified; giuing the people where they came to vnderstand, That they were gods, which came to visit them, to deliuer them from tyrants, and to doe them good; so as they were often deceiued. By such fained deuices these Harpies found lesse resistance in their enterprises. It may be this Denis was the sonne of Semele, and nephew or grand child to Cadmus king of Thebes in Beoce, but not that great Denis, Conqueror of the Indies, who was much more auncient. They say, that he built the towne of Lebrissa (the which he called Nebrissa) vpon one of the chanels of the riuer Betis;Lebrissa, and the beginning. the which in those dayes fell into the sea with two gulfes. Nebros in Greeke is a Hynds calfe, with the skins whereof they did attire those that did celebrate the Bacchanalia. It was at the same time when as the Phoenicians began to encroch much vpon the Spaniards, and to come with whole armies into their countrey,Phoenicians spoyle Spaine. and to make their prey, as the Grecians, Aegyptians, and others of Affricke did.

To Remus they make Palatuus his sonne to succeed him;Palatuus, Palenza. who as they say was founder of the towne of Palenza: but there did rise a petie king or captaine against him, out of the moun­taines, neere vnto the riuer Ebro, called Cacus Licinius, who in the end became master there­of, and Palatuus was forced (being yet young) to flye out of the countrey,Cacus Licinius. and to sue for suc­cours in vaine, begging his bread in a manner for many yeares, of forraine princes and poten­tates. This Cacus was industrious, and the author of many subtile inuentions; to purge and forge yron, and to fashion it to diuers instruments fit for the warre: for hee taught how to make breast-plates and other furniture for the defence of the bodie: and some beleeue, that he had the art to make that infernall pouder, which they vse for artillerie. For these inuenti­ons, wherein he was very expert,Gunpouder an auncient inuen­tion. he was celebrated by the Poets, as the sonne of Vulcan, the god of Forges. Palatuus after that he had long sued in vaine to princes and townes, whereas hee expected some succours, to recouer his estate, hee resolued in the end to returne into Spaine, and to obserue, if the inconstancie of humane things had not prepared him some meanes to recouer his dignitie, and to chase away his enemie: whereas he arriued so happily, as the Spaniards, whether mooued with pitie of his calamitie, or wearie of the others com­maund, they receiued Palatuus, and gaue him men and meanes to recouer his kingdome. So Cacus being dispossessed of that which he had held, fled into Italie, where they say that Hercu­les the Grecian slew him (whereof we will make mention) although that the author thereof doe not agree well vpon this point. There Cacus bred discord betwixt all the people and townes of Italie by his lend practises.

Palatuus being dead, the Tyrians of Phoenicia, who had now learned the way to Spaine, came with their king Erythree, Erythree. and good store of ships, who giuing them to vnderstand, That he had beene commaunded by the Oracle to come and build a Temple to Hercules Libique, in the Island of Tartesse, that is, Calis; they were not onely receiued, but Erythree was also chosen king of that part of Spaine; who built a stately Temple in the Island to Hercules, chan­ging the name thereof,Gadir called Erythree. and causing it to be called Erythree, or else renewed that name, which it might haue had from the sister of Oris aboue mentioned, or of the Erythreans of the East, who followed Hercules Orus, which had dwelt there. To this Temple, which some hold was built vpon the maine land, where at this present Medina Sydonia stands, was due the tenths of all the thefts and spoyles of the West, by a perpetuall decree, the which was long ob­serued.

Of this king Erythree there is nothing more spoken: to whom they giue for successour Gargoris, Gargoris. a Spaniard: he taught the people the vse of honey, and was therefore called Mielle. The chiefe force of this kings estate and others his predecessors, were the Curetes, a brutish and sauage people, dwelling in the forrests of Tartesse, which contained a great part of the Ocean shore, from the holy Promontorie, or Cape S. Vincent, vnto the Island of Erythree.

In his time Hercules the Grecian,Hercules the Grecian. sonne to Alcmena, passed into Spaine, to whom the Greek Poets, and others that haue followed them, did attribute such prowesse, but falsely: for [Page 9] this Hercules was but an insolent man, yet well beloued of the Grecian princes, by reason of his boldnesse and his strength of bodie fit to rob and steale,Theeues counte­nanced by prin­ces in old time. whereunto the nobilitie of that age was commonly addicted. The wealth of Spaine, which was so much spoken of in Greece and Asia, made him affect this voyage, after the first Trojan warre, against Laomedon. Hauing then gathered together all the pyrats and theeues he could, as well in Europe as in Asia, hee set sayle, and coasting along Italie, he landed in the place of Tuscane, which since hath beene called Port Hercules. From thence he arriued in Sardinia, where he found some few inhabi­tants, where he left one Sardus, with some of the idle multitude that was in his armie. Of this Sardus, Sardinia tooke the name. Before he passed on, he made a great sacrifice vnto the gods, in a little Island, betwixt Corsica and Sardinia, the which for that cause doth still retaine the name of Isle Hercules. Baleares called Gymnasies. Then he directed his course towards the Islands of Baleares, then cal­led Gymnasies, whereas the inhabitants made some weake resistance with their slings: in the least of which Islands he dedicated a Temple to Ianus, whereas since the towne of Ciuitella was built. Then continuing his voyage, he toucht the Islands of Pituyses, and gaue the name of Ebusa to the greater. In the end he arriued vpon the maine of Spaine, whereas Dianaes Temple was built, the which he enriched with gifts, and did reuerence with sacrifices, for his prosperous voyage; and for that Diana was held to be the goddesse which had care of trauel­lers. Then sayling along the coast, hee came through the strait into the Ocean, and to the Island of Erythree, where he landed his armie vpon the firme land, and stayed there some few dayes to refresh his men; he in the meane time honouring his Temple (whose name he carri­ed, and did challenge his acts) busied himselfe in making of playes and sacrifices. Hearing then that the Curetes and other Spaniards had put themselues in armes to fight with him, he went to meet them, gaue them battaile, and did easily defeat them, repulsing them into their forrests,Hercules defeats the Curetes. out of the which they durst not fally like enemies. This combat is supposed by the Poets for that of the Titanes against their gods, faining, that the Herculeans were gods, and the Curetes and Spaniards the Titanes.

After this victorie, the whole countrey was at Hercules deuotion: who imitating the aun­cient Hercules of Lybia, planted pillars in the straits; the one in Europe, the other in Affricke; enlarged the towne which was in the Island of Erythree, and left many Tyrians and Sydoni­ans, which had followed him, there: and it may be it then tooke the name of Gadir, or Gades, which in the Phenician tongue signifieth a Terme, or Limit: and tearming himselfe a god, would haue all diuine honours done vnto him. And some hold, That it was he which made a law, to pay the tenth of the enemies spoyle, and to offer them to Hercules Temple: at the least he did exact it being in Spaine, that he might haue part of other mens spoyles, and know the greatest theeues. This done, he marched towards the Pyrenee mountaines, spoyling the coast vpon the Mediterranean sea, and drawing after him a great traine of all nations, which came at the bruit and fame of this great theefe, and the treasures of Spaine: He passed into Gaule, and from thence into Italie, polluting all good families where he passed, as hee had beene accustomed to doe all his life time. The cause of his suddaine departure, was the news he heard of the great preparation which the Grecian princes made, to warre against the Tro­jans, for the rape of Hellen, whither he was inuited by his friend Telamon of Salamine. Thus was Spaine in a short time beaten, and deliuered from a great scourge. Of this Hercules the Poets haue fained all that is written, of the conquests, prowesse, and trauels of many other Hercules, more auncient and better men than he: he was a Grecian, but not of Greece it selfe, but of that part of Italie which they call the great Greece, and of Tarentum, conceiued in a­dulterie by Alcmena, Hercules Taren­tina bastard. the wife of Amphitrion, a priuat man, and an vnknowne father, bred vp at Thebes in Beoce, and nourished in theft, fornication, and execrable murthers: a compani­on and counsellor to Iason, in the voyage of Colchis, at the spoyle of the treasures of Aeete, and the rape of his daughter Medea: the author and executioner of the ruine and death of Laomedon king of Troy; whose daughter Hesione, a noble and innocent virgine, he did prosti­tute to his companion Telamon, bold and hardie in all bad actions: so as hee purchased the name and reputation of a valiant captaine, and was readily followed into Spaine by men of his owne sort, whereof there were store, and finding nothing left to steale in Asia.

As he carried away many bad persons when he went into Spaine, so he left others of di­uers nations behind him, who built cities and townes, or finding some of their countreymen [Page 10] alreadie seated,Calpe. [...] planted themselues among them. Calpe, which was called Heraclea was then built. In this passage also, Barcino, so named of fishermens Cabbins, made of oyziers, which were first there, was enriched with a Temple, which this Hercules caused to be built to Iupiter. Turiasso neere vnto Montcaio,Ausonia. was the Tyrians worke; Ausonia the Italians, it is now called Vic: Ilerda, now Lerida, the Illyrians, and others of other nations, whereof Hercules army was composed.Lerida. To Dianaes Temple (which the Zacynthians had begun before his comming) there were (by him, or by the Zacynthians of his companie) great beames of Iuniper set; the which were spared by Hanniball when as he ruined those places, and continued vnto the time of the Roman Emperors. There remained many other marks of this passage long after in Spaine.

As for Gargoris, who was king, he recouered his authoritie with great difficultie, and kept it with more paine; yet he reigned some yeares, and left the realme to his grand child, which his daughter had by stealth; wherewith Gargoris was so much offended, as he caused this child to be left in the fields,Crueltie of a grandfather. to be deuoured of wild beasts; the which, by the will of God, did not only leaue him vntoucht, but did also nourish him with their vrine: whereof the old man being ad­uertised, he commaunded him to be laid in the high wayes, that oxen, horses, hogs, and such like going and comming, might tread him vnder their feet: yea, he caused him to be presented to famished mastiues, which had bin kept hungry of purpose: but he was still preserued by the fauor of heauen; and the brute beasts (more kind than his grandfather) turned from the infant, and did not hurt him. In the end, this cruell man not content to put the poore child to an or­dinarie death, he caused him to be carried far into the Ocean sea; yet could not his desire suc­ceed: for the infant was cast by the waues vpon the sands, wheras a hynd hauing newly calued, was so farre in loue with it, as she forgat her own fruit, and nourished the child, vntill he grew great, and got his liuing in the woods and rocks, feeding vpon wild fruits; who in the end grew strong, and so actiue, as he ran as swiftly as any stagge. He was often seene, and pursued by the huntsmen of the countrey, who could not conceiue what it was; yet they layd so many ambu­shes, as in the end they tooke him, and presented him vnto Gargoris their king: who hauing carefully considered and viewed the countenance of this sauage prisoner, he was of opinion, that it was his grand child: whereof he was the better assured by certaine marks which he had made vpon his bodie, and caused him to be attended on as his Estate required; then dying, he left him heire of his realme of Spaine: where he shewed himselfe wife, vertuous, and a louer of the good of men, notwithstanding that he had bin bred vp among wild beasts in his youth. For they say he made politicke lawes, and taught them to tyll the land; accustomed the bar­barous people to a more ciuile life, and sought the meanes to better the fruits of the earth by manuring, remembring his hard and rough breeding in his younger yeares. Hee is called by some Albius, Albius, Habidus, or Habis. by others Habidus, or Habis. He appointed exercises for the Spaniards, and diui­ded the people into seuen townes or cantons.

8 After him there is no mention of any kings in Spaine for many ages: which giues some occasion to conjecture, that they erected many Commonweales; or that this region lay open to the inuasion of many strangers, which came from diuers parts; namely, after the destruction of Troy,The Celtes passe into Spaine. which happened in the time of this Habidus; in whose life time certaine Celtes com­ming out of Gaule, came into Iberia, where they had long and sharpe warre against the inha­bitants of the country, with whom they would share their lands; & in the end forced the Ibe­rians to receiue them, and to contract alliances with them, giuing them their daughters in ma­riage: and so communicating both ayre, country, and names with them, they made of two na­tions one,Celtiberia. which was called Celtiberian, and the countrey of Celtiberia; which is, all that lyes betwixt the Pyrenee mountaines and the riuer of Ebro. Other Celtes and Gaules had passed farther into Spaine, it may be, before the Iberians came there, and had run beyond the riuer of Ebro, vnto the West Ocean, where they had held a part of Portugal and Betica; in which pro­uinces they did also carry the names of Celtes, Celtiques, Galates, and Gallicians, and there did build townes. Ephorus (for that the Celtes did hold all that North part of Spaine, and part of Portugal) extended Gaule vnto the Island of Gades. Habis reigned yet, when Elna, a towne in the countie of Rossillon, was first founded; the which some haue ignorantly written, was named by Helene, mother to Constantine the Great, or built by her grand child Constans.

Many Grecians in those times came into Spaine, among the which (as they say) was Teu­cer the sonne of Telamon, who (hauing beene chased away by his father, and after his death ex­cluded [Page 11] from the succession) landed whereas new Carthage now stands, and so passed on into Galicia. They attribute vnto him the foundation of the towne of Salamanca;Salamanca. a name which commeth neere vnto that of Salamina, where Teucer was borne: yet some affirme, That in auncient time it was called Elmantica, and more properly. Diomedes also came into Spaine with certain Aetolians, and they hold, that the towne of Tude vpon Mynio was his worke,Tude. for that this name hath some affinitie with Tydeus, the father of Diomedes. Astur, who was coach-man to king Memnon (no small office in those dayes) being come with the Grecians into this Region,Asturia. gaue the name vnto the Asturians, and to the towne and riuer of Astroga. Some maintaine,Lisbon. That Lisbon, Olyssippo or Vlyssippo, hath beene built by Vlisses, and in it a Temple to the goddesse Pallas. Of Mnestheus of Athens (to whom there were diuine honours confer­red after his death) was named the port of Mnesthee, neere vnto Gades. Finally, infinit Gre­cians, which could not or would not returne into their country, after the destruction of Troy, came into Spaine, and erected many pettie Estates: and among them there were many other nations, who had some strength at sea, and were expert in nauigation, but at diuers seasons, and very vncertaine;Almerie. as the Thracians, whereof the towne of Veta, or rather that of Almerie, giue some testimonie: for in old time it was called Abdera, as another which was in Thrace. The Rhodians did build the town of Roses,Roses. now desart, at the foot of the Pyrenee mountains, whereas the Consull Cato first landed, when hee came to make warre in Spaine. These men taught the Spaniards the vse of hand-mylls, and to coyne money. The Phocians of Asia did build Marseille,Empurias. and founded the towne of Empurias, which in like manner is now ruined. It was in auncient time inhabited by three kinds of people, of diuers manners and languages, di­uided by wals, and liuing in continuall jealousie one of another, which were naturall Spani­ards. These Phocians, and afterwards Romans, which were added by Iulius Caesar, who hauing reduced Spaine vnder his obedience, and chased away Pompeyes children, and their faction, made one bodie of these three nations, and a towne well vnited. The Milesians and the Cary­stians came also to inhabit there; and the Lesbians issued from the Massegetes, to whom they attribute the foundation of Concauo,Concauo, Caslo­na, called Par­nasia. Castulo, at this present Caslona, in old time a great towne, and the limit of two gouernments of Spaine: vnder the Romane Empire it was called Parnasia; which maketh some thinke, that they of Phocide in Europe were the founders, for that Parnassus hill is in their country. Then came the Phrygians, which were extract (as some say) of Spaine and the Aegyptians, vnder the leading of a captaine called Tarracon, of whom the towne of Tarracone tooke the name.Tarracone. Hauing taken great spoyles along the Mediterranean shore, he went and payed the tenths of his thefts to Hercules temple at Calis, according to the auncient order. He had a nobleman of the country, whose name was Teron, that opposed him­selfe, but he could not hinder him from spoyling of the countrey: For in truth the Spaniards, vntill the warres betwixt the Romanes and the Carthaginians, had no commendation to bee good warriors, in regard of other nations. When as the Aegyptian was gone, Teron demaun­ded of the Gaditanes the offerings which this theefe had made vnto their Temple, as taken a­way by violence and injustice: whereunto the Gaditanes opposed themselues, and did so well defend the rites of their god, as they slew Teron, and defeated his men in a battaile at sea.

Some Cipriots came also to dwell in Spaine, and moreouer they beleeue, that the towne of Biana,Biana, Madrid, some­times Mantua. in old time Alba, and of Madrid, first called Mantua, be the worke of the first Latines and Italians.

The reason why so many nations came into Spaine, was the aboundance of mynes, and the ignorance of the Spaniards, which made them lesse couetous, and by consequence lesse giuen to armes, and therfore they were a prey to all these theeuish nations: whom (as all things haue their changes and reuolutions) they haue in this last age not only imitated, but exceeded them farre in crueltie, couetousnesse, and insolencie, to simple rude nations discouered by them, as will appeare by the discourse of the Historie.

About 880 yeares before the Natiuitie of Iesus Christ was that memorable fire in the Pyrenee mountaines (I speake it according vnto the Spanish Authors) the which discouered more plainly the treasures of Spaine:A fire, from whence the name of the Pyrenee came. For the heardsmen hauing set fire of the woods (where­of the mountaines were full) and it continuing many dayes, the veines of the earth were so mooued with this violent heat,The treasure of Spaine casually discouered. as the siluer melting ran downe by streames: whereof py­rats and strangers which did traffique there, being aduertised, they came running to this booty. [Page 12] The Phenicians among others, vnder a kind of traffique, and with the exchange of certaine trifles of small value, laded their ships aboue once, being conducted (as some write) by Sichee, husband to Elisa Dido; yea, in so great abundance, as they made the anchors of their ships of siluer; so as Sichee grew so rich, as his brother in law Pigmalion through enuie and couerous­nesse slew him: who afterward bent his course for Spaine; but running vp and down the seas, he died: wherefore his companie wanting a head, came to Gadis, to their brethren and coun­trymen, which were planted in this Island;Tyrians did first people Cali [...]. who entertained them courteously, and the towne was better peopled by them: so as in the end it became a mightie Commonweale, inhabited first without all doubt by this nation of Tyr.

9 Tyr was at that time, and long after, one of the most famous cities in the world, and and most abounding in people and wealth; which the townes that haue taken their beginning from her, in diuers parts of the earth, doe witnesse. And although it had in a manner no terri­tories, and that it was often taken and spoyled by the kings and potentates of Asia, and by A­lexander the Great, yet did they easily recouer their first happinesse, by reason of the industrie of the inhabitants,Tyrians great seamen. and the commoditie of the sea; the which they did frequent with more ex­perience and knowledge than any other nation of that age. It was the mother citie of that mightie Commonweale of Carthage, which for so long a time did contend for Emperie with Rome; the first foundation whereof was layed by one Carchedon a Tyrian: it was afterwards enlarged by Dido, sister to Pigmalion, about 135 yeares before the foundation of Rome, and did encrease daily both in people and wealth. The citizens whereof some 562 yeares before the Natiuitie of Christ, bent their course for Spaine, to spoyle as others had done, by reason of them of Gades: who hauing gotten a great territorie in Spaine, which made them to bee feared and honoured of their neighbours, yet not contenting themselues with their owne, they sought to take from others:Tyrians made profit of all things. yea, being right merchants, and seeking to make their profit of all things, they tooke away men from the neighbour townes and villages, and caried them to sell as slaues in strange countries: a traffique which had beene alwayes vsed by the Pheni­cians of Syria, their progenitors, to the prejudice of the people of Palestina and Iudea, who bordered vpon them. These inhumane fashions did in the end stirre vp the other people of Spaine against the Gaditanes, whereof followed much warre of small fame, by reason of the weakenesse of the Commonweales and Potentates which did manage them, if wee will com­pare them with others of those times.

Onely there is an honourable mention made of a noble man commaunding vpon the coast of the Ocean,Arganthon. neere vnto this Island of Gadis, called Arganthon, happie in wealth and long prosperitie of his affaires; for they say he liued 155 yeares, and reigned 80, and withall loued justice: whose time is conferred with that of Ancus Martius, reigning in Rome about 150 yeares after the foundation thereof. The Gaditanes were kept somewhat in awe by him and others; yet not so subdued, but they tooke armes vpon all occasions; so as the people round about conspired against them: who finding not themselues strong ynough to oppose against so many enemies, they resolued to call the Carthaginians to their aid; who in the end became masters of Spaine,Carthaginians called into Spain by the Gaditanes vntill the Romanes stayed the course of their victories and con­quests: the which shall be related in the following Bookes with more delight, for that we are better assured than of these things.

Hitherto we haue discoursed of the beginning and antiquitie of those nations which came first to inhabit Spaine, following the obscure steps of those that haue left any thing in writing, or read or conjectured, hauing scarce obserued any order of times, being without any sure grounds: for euen the places, whereas euery one of the Gouernors, Captains, or Kings, wher­of we haue made mention, did reigne, is not very certaine. Yet it is most apparent, that the Isle of Gades hath been the most famous place of all Spaine, and that the superstition of ido­latrous people hath preserued it from the inuasions and spoyles of strangers,Religion what­soeuer it be, is [...]aturally re [...]e­re [...]ed. by reason of the famous Temple of Hercules, which was built there: and that the maine land which is about this Island, and the strait which is neere vnto it, haue beene sooner and more particularly knowne than other places within the heart of Spaine, by reason of the commodious landing for Armies, and the abourd of merchants strangers, which came thither by sea. And it is cre­dible, that within the countrey there were many pettie kings, heads of people, without fame and it may be without any good and lawfull policie; and it is not impertinent, that some [Page 13] townes, famous in after ages, and euen in our times, whose beginning is not known, haue had their first foundations from these vnknowne people.

Wee haue willingly omitted many discourses written by others, for that wee haue held them fabulous, or at the least very doubtfull: as the comming of Noe into Spaine, and the voy­age and conquest thereof by Nabuchodonozor, and such like, which we may read in counterfeit Berosus, or in Iosephus, being deceiued by the memorials of the Chaldeans, who put this last Nabuchodonozor aboue all the Hercules that euer were, to whose acts (the which in truth were great, as we may gather by the holy Scriptures) wee doe not any way derogate, by calling in question his comming into Spaine, for that Asia, Aegypt, and Africk, which were neere, might furnish him wherewith to erect his trophies.

The great drought (whereof some haue left remembrance) seemeth as incredible vnto vs;A prodigious drought. the which continued six and twentie yeares, and burnt all the trees and plants in Spaine, ex­cept some Oliue and Pomegranet trees, as they say; as if these trees could not be hurt by the extreame heat, as well as the rest: it dried vp all the riuers, except Ebro and Guadal­quibir, which became small vnprofitable riuers; so as the people were forced to goe out in great troupes, to seeke for other dwellings. These things, for that they haue not beene written by any auncient and good Authors, who would not haue passed ouer so memo­rable an accident with silence, and for the absurdities which follow, they are with reason rejected.

And for as much as in that which we are hereafter to treat of, we shall find Spaine more manured, better peopled with men, townes, and burroughes, limitted and distinguished by more apparent bounds, and hauing some better forme of gouernment and policie than it hath hitherto had, we haue thought it expedient (for the Readers ease) before we enter into the subject, to make a particular and briefe description thereof, making some mention of the fertilitie of the soyle, qualitie of the ayre, and nature and manners of the Spaniards, both auncient and moderne.

10 Spaine in generall,Description of Spaine. and in regard of other countries, had from the beginning natu­rall limits, as they are at this day; vnlesse they will say, that the continuall beating of the waues of the sea hath made some breaches, or hath diuided it from Africke, to the which some beleeue it was joyned in the beginning, or that the forme hath beene changed by some other accident. There may well be some diminution: for in Islands, the which (for that they are little) are better comprehended and measured by the sences, we find without all question, that some at this present are much lesse than they were in former ages, and others that haue beene famous, are now perished, and are no more, hauing beene vndermined by the waues, and swallowed vp in the sea. But whatsoeuer hath happened since that Spaine had any fame vnto this day, it doth not appeare that there hath beene any great portion cut away, or that it is much altered or changed.

This Region hath beene very fitly compared by the Auncients to an Oxes hyde spread abroad:Spaine like to an Oxes hyde. for beginning by the necke somewhat narrow (which is the passage of the Pyrenee mountaines, by the which it is joyned vnto Fraunce) it extendeth it selfe to the right and to the left, going towards the West: so as making in a manner a square forme, the Pro­montories or heads which thrust into the sea, on the one side vpon the coast of Biscaye, and at Finis terrae, and on the other at Cap de Gates, and at the strait of Gibaltar, repre­sent the legs; then the point of Cap S. Vincent, stretcht forth behind towards the West, makes the tayle.

That which is taken for the East part of Spaine, runs along the Pyrenee mountaines, be­ginning neere vnto the towne of Bayonne, vpon the limits of Fraunce, where was nerctofore the Promontorie Easo, and runs vnto Cap de Crux, whereas Venus Temple was in old time; that is, from the Ocean to the Mediterranean sea, being 80 leagues, or thereabouts, taking the way by Fraunce: for these mountaines haue no strait course, but bend much towards Spaine, and hold a great part of that countrey: so as he that would goe from the Ocean to the Medi­terranean sea within the countrey of Spaine, on that side of the mountaines, should find it much more than 80 leagues. Although that this coast of Spaine be called the East,The East part of Spaine. yet all this passage of the Pyrenee mountaines turnes much towards the North, and is subject to that wind which the Italians call Gree, and by our mariners Northeast.

[Page 14] From Cap de Crux, or Venus Temple, along the Mediterranean sea, and passing by the strait into the Atlanticke Ocean, vnto the holy Promontorie, or Cap S. Vincent, is the South part of Spaine; the which notwithstanding turning towards the East, is for the most part subject to the wind which the Italians call Siroco,The South coast of Spaine. and we Southeast, and contains about 275 leagues; that is, 202 leagues to Gibaltar, and 73 leagues from thence to Cap S. Vincent, the which are distinctly measured after this manner.

• From Cap Crux to Barcelone 30 Leagues
• From thence to Tarracone 16 L.
• From Tarracone to Valence, by the mouth of the riuer of Ebro and Tortosa 30 L.
• From Valence to Denia 17 L.
• From Denia to Alicant 18 L.
• From thence to Carthagena 17 L.
• From Carthagena to Vera 18 Leagues
• From Vera to Almerie 13 L.
• From Almerie to Malaga 20 L.
• From Malaga to Gibaltar 23 L.
• From Gibaltar by the strait to Calis 20 L.
• From Calis to the mouth of Guadiana 26 L.
• From thence to Cap S. Vincent 27 L.
• All which together are 275 Leagues.

The West part of Spaine is directly towards the Equinoctiall,West part of Spaine. and containes 126 leagues, or thereabouts, along the Ocean sea, from Cap S. Vincent, vnto that which the Ancients cal­led Nereum, and we Finis terrae; whereof the distances are these.

• From Cap S. Vincent to the mouth of Tagus or Tayo 38 Leagues
• From thence to the riuer of Munda 25 L.
• From Munda to Duero, a riuer, and where it fals into the sea 25 L.
• From thence to Ponteuedra 19 L.
• From Ponteuedra to Cap Finis terrae 18 L.

All which together make 125 Leagues, whereof there are about 100 of the jurisdiction of Portugall.

From Cap Finis terrae vnto the Promontorie Easo, neere vnto which is Bayonne, a frontier towne of Fraunce against Spaine,The North part of Spaine. is the North part thereof, running some seuen score Leagues along the Ocean, sometimes called Britannicum. For

• From Cap Finis terrae vnto Ninerio, or S. Marthe, they number 40 Leagues
• From thence to Hianeo or Cap Stationes 30 L.
• From thence to S. Ander 30 L.
• From S. Ander to the last bounds of the Pyrenees 40 L.
• All which makes 140 Leagues.

All the circuit then of Spaine shall be of 620 Leagues, counting foure Italian myles to a League,The circuit of all Spaine. that is, 80 Leagues by land, and 540 by sea, sailing round about it, where it is washt with the two seas, which makes it almost an Island.

We are not ignorant, that in old times was comprehended vnder the jurisdiction of Spaine, on the one side the Prouince of Gaule Narbonoise, which is now called Languedocke, and on the other side a portion of Mauritania in Africa,Prouinces out of Spaine vnder the iurisdiction thereof. beyond the strait, as well in the times of the Romane Emperours, as of the Gothes: but for that it was an accessorie onely for a time, and vpon extraordinarie occasions, and that it is most certaine that these people are by na­ture excluded out of the limits of Spaine, and haue alwaies had diuers humors and manners to the Spaniards, wee will containe our selues within the compasse which wee haue described and measured, in the whole course of this Historie; and if we be forced to goe out of it, wee will hold our selues there as strangers. Hauing turned round about Spaine, let vs now come into the heart of it, and before we speake of the particular Prouinces, let vs see what moun­taines and riuers are famous in the whole country, the better to distinguish euery nation, both auncient and moderne.

The Pyrenees, which haue taken their name either of the great fire, whereof mention hath bin made (for Pyr in Greeke, is fire) or from the ordinarie lightening which fals vpon the tops of the hils,Pyrene [...]s, why so called. or else (if we will receiue fables) of the nymph Pyrene, daughter to Bebrix, whom Hercules did get with child as he passed that way, extend their greatest masse from Venus Tem­ple, or Cap Crux, vnto Bayonne, that is to say, from the one vnto the other sea, stretching farre into Spaine, where they doe hold a great part of the countrey, which lyes betwixt them and the riuer of Ebro, casting moreouer many braunches along and crosse this Region, from whence doe fall many riuers and small streames, the which some haue numbred to be 150, [Page 15] meriting the names of riuers. The front of these mountaines, which stretch vnto the Ocean neere vnto Bayonne, bending in that part, runs along the Cantabrians, Asturians, & Gallicia, vnto the last Westerne limits, extending it selfe far into the country, and making almost halfe Spaine crooked and hilly, whereas the riuer of Duero doth passe, and further. These hils were heretofore called Cantabres and Vindius, and since they took diuers names, which were giuen them by the people which dwell thereabouts, and in the vallies thereof. At this present they be the mountains of Biscay, Nauarre, Sentillana, the mountains of Oca, Asturia, and Gallicia. Out of them doth flow the riuer Ebro,The spring of the riuer Ebro. in old time Iberus, neere vnto a place which they call Fuent Ibre, & hauing run a little towards the East, she turneth her course to the South, by the ancient country of the Autrigones,The course of Ebro. Vardules, Vascons, Ilergetes, Edetanes, and Ilercaones, the which are in our time the Nauarrois, Arragonois, and Cattelaunians, and hauing run aboue 120 leagues through the country,The spring of the riuer Duero. it fals into the Mediterranean sea, beneath Tortose. Duero doth also take her beginning in these mountains, a great riuer, and the auncient limit betwixt Portugall and Tarraconese, two of the principall Prouinces of Spaine, neere vnto a Bourg called Aquilar, not farre from Soria, bending in the beginning towards the South, but after­wards she takes her course to the West Ocean, into the which it dischargeth it selfe neere vnto the towne of Porto Galego, hauing run about 120 leagues by the Areuaces, and betwixt the vallies of the Galliques and Lusitanians, which in our time are those of Castille the old, Leon and Portugal, towards the North. Into it fals the riuer Auia,Auia. vpon the banks whereof they say that no tree that is pricking will grow; although that all the countrey thereabouts is full of Pomgranets, Oranges, Cytrons, and such like, the which it hath common with another riuer in Galicia, called Aleste.

From the same Pyrenees,Mountaine of Idubeda. as from a common stemme, parts the mountain, called in old time Idubeda or Iubalda, the which thrusts forth into two other branches, the which diuides Spain from the East vnto the West, and passing by diuers people, gets also diuers names: for in the beginning they call it Sierra, or mountaine of Acienca, by reason of the auncient towne of Auca, the ruines whereof are yet to be seene, aboue the towne of Bourgos: then it is called Sumo Sierra, Puerto de Tablada, of Palomera, of Abilo, Pico, of Tornauacas, & in the end en­ters into Portugal, making a great front neere vnto the Ocean, the which they call the mount of Strella,The mountains of Strella in Portugall, and the wonders thereof. vpon the top of which is an admirable lake: for they doe often find in it pieces of ships which haue suffered shipwracke vpon that coast, notwithstanding that the mountaine is very high, and a good way from the sea: and they say moreouer, that when the sea is troubled with tempests, they doe heare the waues beat, and all that lake and mountaine make a noyse, with the horrible sound of the winds and tempest, as if they were in full sea.

This course of the mountains running betwixt the riuers Duero and Tayo, doth now cause a distinction of the people of the Prouinces of Spain;Distinction of Spaine within the countrey. for which reason they are called, on this side, or beyōd the mountains. The other branch of this moūt Idubeda runs towards the South, neere vnto the towns of Siguensa and Cuenca, keeping in the riuer Ebro, that it bend not to­wards the West, the which in our time hath also gotten diuers names, that is, Solorio, Sierra Molina, Sierra d'Alcarras & Sigura, in old times, Mons Argentum; and sometimes rising high, and sometimes falling and opening in some places, it is in a manner plain neere vnto Valence: then it riseth againe, and passeth to Carthagena, and to Cap de Palos, in former times called Scombraria, the ancient limit of two gouernments of Spaine, at what time this mountain was called Orospeda or Ortospeda.Orospeda. Mo. Illipula. M. Passing on by the sea shore riseth the mountaine, in old time called Illipula, and now Sierra Vermeia, Sierra de Rondas, and other hils of the kingdome of Granado,Calpe. M. which is Gibaltar. which extend vnto the strait whereas they make Mont Calpe, called at this time Gi­baltar; the which should properly be called Gibal Tarif, a name gotten by the discent of a cap­taine Moore, called Tarif, who landed in this place with the first armie of Moores that came out of Africke into Spaine, when as the Gothes kingdome went to ruine. Other mountaines diuiding themselues from this, and going far from the sea, run aboue Cordoue and Seuille, the which in old time were called Mariani Montes, and Castulonensis Saltus, now Sierra Morena.Mariani. M.

Out of these aboue named mountaines, which keepe in the riuer Ebro, bending from the North to the South,Tayo, Tagus, Guadiana, A­nas, Guadalqui­bir, or Betis ri­uers. there flowe three great flouds or riuers, Tagus, Anas, and Betis, accor­ding to the ancients, but now called Tayo, Guadiana, and Guadalquibir, besides many others of lesse fame, which these doe receiue and carrie into the Ocean.

[Page 16] Tayo hath his spring at a place which is now called Sierra Molina,The course of Tagus. neere vnto the towne of Cuenca and Toralba, the which passing almost through two parts of Spaine, runneth by Toledo, the country of Estrema Dura and Portugal, towards the West Ocean, where it enters by a large and spacious channell beneath the royall citie of Lisbone. This riuer was famous among the Auncients, by reason of the little graines, and as it were scrapings of pure gold, which they did often find in the grauell and sand, which the torrent and streames of water had brought from the mountaines.

Guadiana commeth out of the countrey which in old time they called Campus Laminita­nus,The beginning and course of Guadiana. and now Campo de Montiel, a place which is otherwise drie and wanting water. This ri­uer directeth her course in the beginning towards the West, neere vnto the towne which was called Pax or Pezaugusta, but now Badaios: turning there to the South, it dischargeth it selfe into the Atlanticke sea, bounding in at this day the kingdome of Portugal on the South side, as in old time it diuided the prouince of Betica from Lusitania. Towards the Spring they call it Rodiera,A singularitie of Guadiana. and from thence (which is admirable) hauing run some leagues in the coun­trey, it hides it selfe vnder the ground, neere vnto a place called Argamasilla, and runneth so hidden aboue eight great leagues: then it comes forth againe into certaine moores, continu­ing her course in that manner, neere vnto the auncient townes of Cecilia, Gemela, Emerita, and Pezaugusta, towards the sea; by reason whereof the Spaniards breed admiration in stran­gers, bragging, that they haue a bridge in their countrey, vpon the which aboue ten thousand cattell feed daily.

As for Guadalquibir,Guadalquibir, the name, spring, and course. so named by the Moores, which is as much to say, as a great floud, and in old time Betis, her beginning is vpon Mont Argent, called now Sierra d'Alcarras, and runneth towards the West into the Atlanticke sea, beneath Seuille, by a large channell; al­though in old time it had two: whereof the one passed along the wals of Nebrissa, which at that time was Lebrissa; the which is at this day aboue two leagues off, for that the channell is filled vp: vpon the which Asta did also stand, which in those times was also called Zeres de la Frontera.

There are other mountaines in Spaine of lesse fame,Cayo. as Mont Cayo,Iui. neere to Tarrassone in Arragon,The ladders of Hanniball. in old time Caunus; M. Iui or Mons Iouis, neere to Barcelone; the ladders of Hanniball, called in that time the coast of Garaph, and others. Moreouer, there are many ri­uers besides those which we haue described, giuing the names or bounds to Prouinces: as the riuer of Ruscino, whereof the towne and countrey was named; of the ruines whereof Perpignan was built: Astorga, which seemeth to giue the name vnto the Asturians: the ri­uer of Calybs, which passeth according vnto some, neere vnto Tarrassone, and in his name carrieth the marks of the beginning of the Spaniards, the water whereof is excellent to steepe yron: Sicoris, or Sigro, which passeth at Lerida; about the which were the Sicanians, which passed into Sicilie, Cinpa or Senga, and the greater and lesse Arragon; flouds whereof the kingdome of Arragon is named, with others which are obserued by the curious. But it shall be easie for vs, among these great mountaines and riuers which we haue described, to find out euery people and prouince, and the particular places of Spaine, as well according to the distinctions of the Auncient, as their limits and diuisions, since the euersion of the Romane Empire.

Beginning then with the Westerne point, we say, That from Cape S. Vincent vnto the Island of Gades or Calis,Turditanes. did dwell the auncient Turditanes, vpon the sea, and within the land, holding both bankes of the riuer Anas, and the countrey which lieth betwixt it and Be­tis, beyond the which they did occupie some leagues of the countrey towards the South. This Region was in the beginning full of woods and forrests, which they called Tercenians and Tartessians, but being cut downe, it hath beene alwaies very fertile and abounding in all things. The towne of Hispalis, called after Sepila, and since Seuille, was of this nation, being also called Romulensis Colonia, situated vpon the bankes of Betis, a great and nauigable ri­uer, and lower towards the sea, Nebrissa, and Asta Colonia, and within the countrey Italica, whereas the Emperours Traian, Adrian, and Theodosius were borne, with the Poet Silius, and Carmon retaining still the name, Pax Iulia and Beia, at this present Portugall.

Neere vnto them towards the East were the Turdules,Turdules. whose countrey is also bathed by Betis,Cordoue. and vpon this riuer is the towne of Cordoue, called Colonia Patricia, built by the [Page 17] Consull M. Claud. Marcellus, about the yeare of the foundation of Rome 602. Which countrey of the Turdules did extend to the Turditanes and the Bastules, from the Isle of Gades, vpon the Ocean, vnto the Mediterranean sea, neere vnto the Promontorie Cha­ridemum, or Cap de Gates. The places which the Turdules did hold lying vpon the Ocean shoare, towards the strait, were the port of Mnesthee, the Temple of Iuno built by Hercules, and the citie of Belon, on which side there are at this day S. Marie, Trafalgar, and Tariffe: and within the countrey the mountaine Ilipula, and Ilipula Magna, at this present Ilpa; Illiberis, or Liberia, which some thinke was Granado in those times; and Astigi, one of the judiciall seats of Spaine, which may be Eccia at this day, although there were another of that name vpon the sea shoare. Among this nation it may well be the Melessians were, and their towne Oringe, taken by L. Scipio, which they say was Aryona.

After were the Bastules,Bastules, and their townes. within the straits, and along the Mediterranean sea, who were surnamed Poeni, continuing vnto the Promontorie of Charidemum, or Cap de Gates, and to Balaria, now Bara, or Vera, next vnto the Turdules, of which nation Calpe was, other­wise called Heraclee,Gibaltar. the which at this day they name Gibaltar, neere vnto the which in old time was the towne of Carteia, called also Tartesse; the which was a common name in old time for the riuer Betis, the Island of Gades, and all the neighbour countrey. It is likely,Algezire. that this towne of Carteia was situated whereas Algezire now standeth. Titus Liuius setteth it without the strait, vpon the Ocean. Then Malaga, a port which retay­neth his name; and Abdera, which is Almerie, vpon the Mediterranean sea, belonging vn­to the Bastules; and it may be Munda, whereas Pompeyes eldest sonne was defeated, if it be that Ronde which is at this day, as some will haue it. The countries inhabited by these three nations, are at this day comprehended in Granado, Andaluzia, and a part of Portugall, and made the Betique Prouince one of the chiefe members of the king­dome of Spaine.

Next vnto them,Bastitans. Contestans. and continuing along the coast of the Mediterranean sea, were the Ba­stitanes and Contestanes, whereas in our time lyeth Murcia and Valence, seperated by the mountaine Orospeda. The towne of Basa was in old time the chiefe mansion of the Ba­stitanes, otherwise called Basitanes, to whom Acci did belong, now called Guadix, and vnto Beiar and Origuela, in old time called Bigerra and Orcelis. But Murcia, then cal­led Menlaria, Saetabis, which is Xatiua, and towards the Promontorie Scombaria, now cal­led Cap de Palos, new Carthage, Alone, which at this day is Alicant, Illici, it may be El­ches in our time, and the citie of Valence, were belonging vnto the Contestanes, among the which it may be Illiturge was, lying farre from the sea, or else among the aboue named Bastitanes.

Then followed the Editanes and Ilercaones,Editanes, and their townes. from Valence vnto the mouth of the ri­uer Ebro. The townes and places renowmed among the Editanes, or, as others tearme them, Seditanes, were Dianium vpon the sea, and Sagunt higher, destroyed by Hanniball, whereas now Moruiedro standeth, Caesar Augusta, farre off from the sea, is Saragossa, in old time Salduba.

Among the Ilercaones were Dertosa,Ilercaones, a people. in these times Tortosa, and old Carthage, ruined by the two Scipios brethren.

Ioyning vnto them, and still coasting along the sea shoare, and on this side the riuer of Ebro,Acetanians. were the Acetanians, Laetanes, Castellanes, and Indigetes, all which are com­prehended at this day in Catelogne, vpon the sea. To these Acetanians (who were al­so called Cosetanians) belonged Terraco; of the which, the greatest part of Spaine was named; a towne peopled by the two brethren Scipios, to oppose it against new Carthage.

Barcelone growne great of a small beginning,Barcelone. by the ruines of Rubicata, a Colonie of the Africanes, situated vpon the riuer Rubricatus,Laetanes. at this present Lobregat, was of the Laetanes or Laletanes.

The Castellans (who,Castellans. according vnto some, haue left their name to our Catelogne) were whereas it may be the Duchie of Cardone now is.

[Page 18] Vpon the declining of the Pyrenee mountaines,Indigetes. were the Indigetes, or Endigetes, where­as the towne of Empurias or Emporium now is, and Rhoda, or Roses, now ruined, and in old time the Temple of Venus, whereas now Coelibre stands, a name taken from Illiberis, which was at the foot of the Pyrenees, as some suppose.

For a frontier to Spaine on that side,Ruscino Rossillon. we will place Ruscino, which is the Countie of Rossillon, although it were in old time of the Prouince of Gaule, but it hath of long time beene annexed vnto Spaine: there was Elna, which hath not changed her name, and Rusci­no, both riuer and towne, of whose ruines Parpignan was built. Neere vnto it is a small riuer, called Illeris, and since Tetrum, that is to say, filthie, for that the water thereof is blacke, by reason that it passeth among the mynes of mettall, whereof those moun­taines are full. In this countrey there was also a towne called Illiberis, as that of Gre­nade, whereas the first Councell of Spaine was held: but at this day there remaineth no marke of it.

Comming now to the holy Promontorie, or Cape S. Vincent, from whence wee are parted, we will describe the people dwelling along the Westerne and Northerne Ocean, vnto the other end of the Pyrenees, neere vnto Bayonne; whereof the first were called Cel­tiques, who came without all doubt from Gaule,Celtiques. after that the Celtes and Iberians were mingled together, comprehended partly vnder the Lusitanians, who held a great Continent of the countrey, as well by the sea side, as within the land, and gaue the name vnto one of the chiefe members of Spaine, containing the Vergons, of whom wee will make mention hereafter.

These Celtiques and Lusitanians comprehended a great part of our Portugall,Lusitanians. of E­strema Dura, and Castille the new, and entred as farre as Andelouzia into the Celtiques countrey. The auncient townes which they had, and the places most renowmed, were Vlysippo or Olysippo,Lisbone. now Lisbone, at the mouth of Tayo, the mouthes of the riuers of Monda and Duero, and within the countrey Scalabis, or Turris Iulia, now Trugil­lo, Talabriga, Talauera now, Ebura, Norba Caesarea, at this time Alcantara, Augusta Emerita, now Merida. These two last were betwixt Tayo and Guadiana, and Norba Cae­sarea was ruined by Pompeyes faction, for that they had beene two faithfull vnto Caesar: of the ruines whereof, and the remainders of which people, Emerita was afterwards built, in Augustus his time. There were also Euandria, Cecilia Gemellina, now called S. Marie of Guadalupe: Aronda among the Celtique Betiques, called also Munda, not that whereas Pompeyes eldest sonne was defeated. Beside these townes, there were vpon the marches of the Lusitanians, Ilipa, which it may be is Niebla at this day; Oxtraca, Carmel, Ituca, and others, whereof there remaine no markes.

Beyond the riuer of Duero were the people called Callaiques or Galliques,Callaiques or Gallegos. now Gal­legos, so named of the Gaules, Galates, or Celtes, holding a great countrey, which was barren and hillie, for the most part, but where it joyneth vpon the Lusitanians; which is that which is contained betwixt the riuers of Duero and Minio, belonging at this pre­sent to the realme of Portugall; the which hath taken this name since the comming of the Moores,Portugall whence it was so named. of the towne of Porto, right against the which, they or the Gaules pyrats built a fort, which was called Gal: it may be it is that which is called the tower of Gaya, the which is in this countrey, whereas Duero falleth into the sea. These people of Callaiques were diuided into two; those which were called Brecaires, by reason of the towne of Bre­car Augusta, which was among them (the which is now Braga, Metropolitane of Por­tugal,) and the Callaiques Lucenses, by reason of the towne called Lucus Augusti, now Lugo.Brecaires. Of the Brecaires was the riuer Lemia, called Lethes, for that the Celtes inhabi­ting about the riuer of Guadiana, comming with other of their neighbours into this coun­trey, after some tumults, and the losse of their captaine, being vagabonds, and without counsell, they wandered vp and downe without conduct, and without any care to returne from whence they came, as if they had forgotten their first abode. The Brecaires and their towne Brecar tooke their name from certaine souldiors of Affricke, which were leuied about the riuer of Bragada, in the Prouince of Carthage, and then mingled with the Celtes, or Gaules, were called Callaiques, or Galliques Brecaires.

[Page 19] Among the Lucenses were the Artabres,Artabres. about the Promontorie Nereum, which is now Finis terrae: there were the altars of the Sunne, and Flauium Brigantium, it may be Compo­stella at this day, or Betauzos, or rather Corunra, and Trileucum, a Promontorie, and Iria Flauia, at this day S. Marie of Finis terrae, or Padron, and Aquae Calidae, now Orense.

Asturia joyned to these Callaiques,Asturians. at that time diuided into many jurisdictions: there was Lancia the chiefe towne, taken by Augustus captaines, Legio Germanica, or Gemina, at this time Leon, a royall towne: Bregetium, called since (according vnto some) Ouiedo, an assu­red refuge for Christians, when as the Moores did ouerrun Spaine: Asturica Augusta, at this day Astorga: Forum Egurrorum, Medina of Riosecco, and towards the sea Flauionauia, neere vnto the which began the Cantabrians,Cantabrians. which are now the Biscanes, those of Guipus­coa, and part of Nauarre. Their sea townes were Flauiobriga, now Bilbao, Easo, S. Sebastian, neere Fonterabie, the furthest limit of Spaine, where as in old time was the Promontorie O­larso, or Oeoso. Among them was the towne of Segisama, taken by Octauius Caesar. They did comprehend the Antrigones, Caristes, Bardules, and Vascons, the which extended them­selues farre from the sea into the countrey, on this side the riuer of Ebro, and coasted the Py­renee mountaines. The neerest vnto Asturia were properly called Cantabrians, to whom Vel­lica did belong, about the place where as now Victoria stands, the chiefe towne of the Pro­uince of Alaua, Iuliobriga, at this day Logrogne. The riuer of Ebro did run through the middest of the Autrigons.Vardules. Alba was among the Vardules, since called Viana: and to the Vas­cons belonged Pompelon Martua, which is now called Pampelone Iacca, which according to Ptolome hath held the old name: Calagorina, now called Calaorra, or Calahorra: Bascon­ton, of the name of Basco, or Vasco: Suessa, which may be Sanguessa, and others.

Hitherto we haue briefely described the people and prouinces of Spaine, which joyne vp­on the seas, and obserued the chiefe places thereof, applying them as neere as might bee to these times: Let vs now enter into the countrey, beginning with the confines of the Callai­ques, Asturians, and Cantabrians, towards the North, and comming to the South.

The Vacces did joyne vnto the Gallicians Brecaires of the West,Vacces. to whom the Murbo­ges, Areuaces, those which were called Belli and Titthi, confining with the Celtiberians, the Pelendones, and Berones were neighbours, approching neere vnto the riuer of Ebro, which was to the East of them, and that of Duero vpon the South. All this compasse is comprehen­ded in our time within Castille the old, and the realme of Leon.

The townes of Viminacium, Auia, or Liuia, which is now Villalon, Segisama Iulia, at this present called Tordesillas, which they call otherwise Turris Sillana; Palantia, which hath preserued the name of Palence; Pincia, which is Vailledolit, Septimance, or Simanca; Sen­tica, or Sarabris, at this day Zamora, and Cauca, where as Lucullus committed great cruel­tie, and Intercatia. These townes I say were among the Vacces: But Branum, or Auca, of whose ruines the towne of Burgos hath beene built, belonged to the Murboges.

Among the Areuaces,Areuaces. whose country is washt with the riuer Duero, running through the middest thereof, were the townes of Clunia Colonia, Segortia Lacta, at this present Sepul­ueda, Ocilis, Segobia, which keepes his name, Termantia, and the old Numance, whereas at this day Soria stands.

Vnder the said nation were the Vergones or Vectons,Vergones and Vectons. confining vpon the Lusitanians, and making a part of that prouince: which countrey is now comprehended betwixt the frontier of Portugall, towards Cite Roderigo, the kingdome of Leon, Castille the new, and Tole­do. To these people Elmantica did belong, now called Salamanca, a famous Vniuersitie. On the East side were the Carpetanians,Carpetanians. there stood Toledo, which retaines the name, called al­so Serezola, Aebura, Hippo, Complutum, now called Alcala Enares, Mantua, now Madril: and it may be among them were the Olcades, and their townes Althee.

Towards the South were the Oretanes,Oretanes. confining on the East with the Celtiberians, and on the West with the Beturians, neighbours to the Lusitanians, which are those of Estre­ma Dura. The countrey of the Oretanes makes at this day a part of the realme of Toledo; it comprehends the fields of Calatraua, the passage called the fields of Alcocer, and part of the mountaines Marianes, at this present Sierra Morena, vnto Iaen, and to the frontiers of Granado. Oreton of the Germanes, which some thinke to bee Calatraua, Castulo, then a great and mightie towne, and now a small burrough, called Caslona, vpon the riuer Guadi­ana, [Page 20] where Himilca the wife of Hannibal was borne, issued from the race of Milicus, who built it: Mentisa, which is Iaen, according vnto some, and Astapa, a famous retreat of desperat theeues; Nobilia, Cusibis and Illusia, were of the Oretanes.

Among the Celtiberians were Ergauica,Celtiberians. Alce, Turiasso, (that is Tarassone) Bilbilis, at this present Calataiub (whereas the Poet Martiall was borne) Saguntia, now Siguenza, Contre­bia and Valeria, which is Concha.

Betwixt the Celtiberians and the riuer Ebro,Lobetanes. were the Lobetanes, and on this side Ebro, vn­der the Vascons and mount Edulius, dwelt the Ilergetes, and towards the Pyrenee moun­taines, and at the foot of them,Suessetanes. Lacetanes. [...]usetanes. Cerretanes. the Suessetanes, Lacetanes, Authetanes, or Ausetanes, and Cerretanes, being all contained partly in Nauarre and Arragon, and part in Catalogne at this present. Suessa the chiefe towne of the Suessetanes, may be Sanguessa in Nauarre: and Iac­ca at that time was of the auntient Lacetanes. The towne of Ilerda, which is Lerida, gaue the name to the Ilergetes: to them there also belonged Osca, Huesca at this day, and Bergidum, which is Vrgel, and Anitorgis, or Athanasia.

As for the towne of Iliturgis, it is obscurely limited by the auntients. Some of the later will haue it among the Ilergetes, others place it in the Oretanes countrey, and others in the Betique prouinces, places farre distant one from another.

The Authetanes, or Ausetanes, did possesse Geronda, in our time Girone: and a­mong the Cerretanes, were Ausonia the auntient, and Iulia Libica, which some hold to be Linca.

This is all which I haue thought fit to gather of the people inhabiting the firme land of Spaine, the which were found there, and augmented by the Carthaginians and Romanes, when as they contended for the possession thereof, whereof some markes appeared at that time, and that they had immutable limits, the which doe now assure vs of their ha­bitations.

11 There is mention made by some authors,Islands about Spaine. of many islands about Spaine, whereof some are no more, others are yet famous. The Cassiterides, fertile in tinne, were placed by the Cosmographers neere vnto Cap Finis terrae:Cassiterides, lost islands. but there is no more any mention of them; whereby it seemes they haue been swallowed vp in the sea, vnlesse they will say, they be those of the Axores, which are too far from Spaine.

The islands of the gods in the West Ocean,Islands of the gods. may be those of Bayone, neere vnto Ponteuedra in Gallicia.

The island of Gades was in old time called Tartesse Erythrea,Calis and the antient names. or according vnto some E­rythie, Cotynusia, Aphrodisia, Gadira, Gadir, and Gaddir (although that Gaddir in the o­pinion of some, is a common name to the island, and to other places of Betique Spaine, neere vnto it, as well as Tartesse) and now they haue named it Gadiz or Galis. It hath beene the most famous of all others about Spaine, and is yet renowned and rich, but much more in auntient times. For although that in the Romanes time they had scarce any territorie, yet was it one of the greatest, the richest, and best peopled townes in Europe. It appeares by the description of Censures at one time, That there were fiue hundred heads of families, of the order of Knights, among the inhabitants thereof. One Balbus a Gaditane enlarged the towne almost halfe bigger than it was, and called his new worke Neapolis.

In this island there was a fountaine flowing and ebbing dayly with the sea. Ioyning vn­to it there were two other small islands, whereof the one was called Didima. They write, That in old time the island of Gadis was much greater than it is now. It hath in length from the South to the North, some ten or twelue miles, and is seperated from the maine land by a narrow channell, and distant from the strait of Gibaltar some threescore miles, or fiftie leagues.

In the Iberique,Islands Baleares Maiorca, Mi­norca. or Mediterranean sea, are the two islands Baleares, called in these times Majorca, and Minorca; for that the one is bigger than the other. Their first name was Gymnasies, for that the inhabitants thereof went all naked: Gymnos in Greeke, is naked in our language. But for that the men of this island were good Archers, they were called Baleares, vnlesse wee will beleeue that this name was giuen them by one Balee, whom Hercules gaue them for their Gouernour, as some write. In those dayes great Commonweales drew good souldiours from thence, who did commonly vse slings, [Page 21] and did euer carie three; with the one he did bind his head, with another he did girt himselfe, and the third he held in his hand: and with these armes they wrought great effects, and did much amaze their enemies;Maiarquins ex­pert in slings. for they were practised in it from their youth by their mothers, who set their breakfast bread vpō the top of a post, the which they must beat down with their slings, or else they fasted. These islanders were long before they would vse either gold or siluer, remembring the great calamities which Spaine had suffered, by reason of these mettals: wher­fore they held themselues to bee well assured in forbidding the vse of it.Gold and siluer forbidden by the antient Maior­quins. They did sometimes capitulate with the Carthaginians, who often imployed their souldiours in their warres, that they should guie them wiues and wine for their pay, and no siluer.

These are two fertile islands, hauing this benefit moreouer, that they doe not breed any hurtfull beast, although the warre which they had with the conies be no fable; but they were brought from other places, and of one bucke conie and a doe, they did multiplie in such great numbers, as with the working of their holes and burroes vnder ground, they vnrooted trees, and vndermined the foundations of houses, so as the inhabitants sent embassadors to Rome, to demaund helpe and succour of the Senat against these beasts (a certaine argument of their simplicitie) but afterwards they learned to take them. The greatest of these islands is about fifteene leagues long, and verie narrow. The lesser yeelds nothing to the other in bountie and fruitfulnesse.Cabrera and Dragonora. Pityuses. About them are the little islands of Cabrera and Dragonera. Neerer vnto the maine land, and more Westerly, are the two Pityuses, whereof the greater was called E­busus, which hath about twentie miles circuit of hard accesse, hauing a port vpon the South side: It is now called Yuica, the which they say hath no serpents, and, if they bee brought from any other place, they die. But the other, Ophiusa in old time, and now Fromentaria, is so full of them, as the island hath remained desart and not inhabited. In Yuica they make excellent salt. These islands are right against the shore betwixt Barcelone and Valence.

The islands of Sardinia and Corsica were in old time giuen by the Popes in fee to the kings of Arragon, who haue contended by armes for the right thereof, against the Geneuois and Pisans, for many yeares, till that in the end the Arragonois got the quiet possession of Sardi­nia; of which conquest we shall speake often; wherefore wee will describe it briefly, without making any particular mention of that of Corsica, which the Geneuois hold.

The isle of Sardinia lies in the Mediterranean sea,Description of Sardinia. hauing that of Corsica neere vnto it vpon the North. It runs out in length from North to South, neere threescore leagues, accounting foure miles to a league. It is held to be about an hundred and fiftie leagues in circuit: It is fiue and thirtie leagues from Africke, the neerest place vnto it is Tunes or Bizerte. Betwixt it and Corsica are but foure leagues, and in some places but three: in the which there are many smal islands, which they cal Businares. This island was in old time called Ico, Ichnusa, and San­daliotis, for that it hath the forme of a sole, or of a mans foot. The first inhabitants were Tus­canes, and then Grecians, led by Iolaus and Sardus, companions to Hercules. After which there arriued some Troianes, and then Athenians. After them the Carthaginians seised vpon this island, who were dispossest by the Romanes, which was the cause of the third warre betwixt them.

Hauing beene long vnder that commonweale, and consequently vnder the Romane em­pire, the Sarasens got footing there, against whom the Geneuois and Pisans, then mightie commonweales, did arme, by the Popes persuasion; conquered it, and planted themselues there. But for that it was a subject of their warre and quarels, and withall the Popes bearing a spleene against the Pisans,Fertilitle of Sardinia. it was giuen in fee to the kings of Arragon. It was heretofore a store-house for the Romanes, it was so fertile, and would be so still, if the people were indu­strious; much better for tillage than Corsica, especially that part which lies towards Africk, which is a plaine, and lyes lower than the other towards Corsica, which is hilly. In it there grow vines and all sorts of fruites, as in Corsica, except oyle, by reason of the negligence of the Sardinians: for nature bringing forth in the woods and mountaines, infinit-store of wild oliues, shewes it is their owne fault if this plant be not made good. The island abounds in cat­tell of all sorts, as it appeares by the great quantitie of hides and cheese which they transport into Italie and other places. There are great store of wild goats, called by the countreymen Musines, or Mu [...]les, which haue their haire like stagges, and their heads like rammes, but their hornes bending backwards: they are verie light and nimble, and liue in the mountains, where­of [Page 22] of the Sardinians (who are better huntsmen than the Corsicans) take three or foure thousand at a time, the which they flea to sell their skinnes, whereof the Cordeuan leather is made, leauing the carkasses in the fields, notwithstanding that the flesh be reasonable good to eat; wherewith it may be the ayre is impaired,The a [...]re in Sar­dinia corrupted by nature and by accident. the which doth naturally infect that countrey, by reason of certaine South windes which blow in Summer. The horses of Sardinia are hot, strong headed, and hard to be broken, but they last long; and there are many wild. Among their tame cattell there are certaine small bullockes, which amble naturally, which the coun­trey men vse like Asses and Mules, to goe from one place to another. Heretofore there haue beene mynes of sulpher or brimstone,Mynes. alume, siluer, and salt; and it is but the negli­gence of the people, that they are not found at this day, and with good profit. Neither doth it want bathes which are good for many infirmities,Bathes. especially betwixt Montreal and Saint Iohn. In Sardinia (as some maintaine) there are no wolues, nor any venimous nor hurtfull beasts, the which they haue common with many other islands: yet they haue verie great foxes, fierce and cruell, which easily kill a sheepe or a goat. There growes the hearbe Sardonique, which causeth death, with such a contraction of the sinewes, as they seeme to smile when they are dead.

This island hath in former times beene better inhabited than it is at this day, and they haue beene more warlike than now they are. When as the Geneuois and Pisans did hold it, they distinguisht it into two prouinces, that of Cap Caillery which lookes towards A­fricke, the which was the Pisans part, and the greater; and Cap of Lugodori, joyning vpon Corsica, which the Geneuois held for them. Then the Sardinians had their rulers and Go­uernours, whom they call Iudges,Iudges is foure [...]urisdictions. diuided into foure jurisdictions or prouinces; one at Ca­illery, another at Arborea, since called Oristagny; one at Turrita, or Torre, and the fourth at Galluri. This kind of gouernement was entertained vntill the conquest of the island by the Arragonis, and the Spaniards rule. At this day there is a Viceroy resident at Caille­ry, with absolute authoritie, who of necessitie must bee a Spaniard, and is assisted by a Councell, or royall audience, consisting of a President, and a certaine number of Coun­sellours. The two prouinces aboue mentioned, into the which the islands is diuided, haue either of them a Gouernour, who is a Spaniard, or of the island indifferently, which doe gouerne and haue authoritie in the absence of the Viceroy, but hee beeing present, it ceaseth.

The townes and chiefe places of this island,Chiefe townes in Sardinia. bee Caillery, commonly called Calger, a towne seated vpon the side of a hill towards Africke, hauing a goodly port, haunted by merchants and saylers from all parts: it is well built, and enriched with diuers towers, and a stately temple, built by the Pisans, and an Archbishops seat. This citie hath by priuiledge a jurisdiction apart, besides the Viceroyes authoritie, and is gouerned by the citizens them­selues. Next is Oristagny, in old time called Arborea, the which is also a bishopricke, and was sometimes a marquisate with a particular lord: but one of them rebelling, the kings of Arragon haue vnited it vnto their demaines. There is a port also towards the West. Ar­ghero, or Alguero, followes on the same West part, the which hath no port, but onely a road. Bossa vpon the Sea, the tower in old time was called Libisson, a Colonie of the Ro­manes, and afterwards called Torre, or Turrite, the which is now ruined. Sassari, ten or twelue miles from the sea, where there is an auntient conduit of water, the which con­tinues about twelue miles, vnto Saint Gauins temple. Then castle Arragonois towards Corsica.

There are many other burroughes and castles in the island, of small fame. The ruines of old buildings which are to bee seene in many parts of the island, shew that in auntient time there were many cities and great buildings. In places not inhabited there yet are many towers to bee seene of a round forme, built of a verie hard stone, hauing the doores and entries narrow, and the stayres in the maine walls. Those buildings are called by the inha­bitants Noracs, a marke of great antiquitie, some thinking that Norac sonne to Erithree did first inhabit this island, by whom the buildings were so called. The islands which are about Corsica and Sardinia, are few, and of no fame. Asinara and Tolaro, are towards Cap Logudori, the one of the East side, the other of the West, the rest are rather shelfes than islands.

[Page 23] The Sardinians had in old time a proper language, but the often change of their lords,The Sardinians language. and the accesse of diuers nations, hath corrupted their speech: The most ciuile at this day speake Spanish Cattelan: the vulgar sort haue a language mixt of the Cattelans, Italians, Moors, and other strange and barbarous words. Among the ruder sort, there is not in a manner a­ny religion, and not much in townes; for in all Christendome you shall not find Church­men more ignorant than in Sardinia. Their religious exercises are to heare masse on Sun­dayes, and on some Saints daies, and then they feast and daunce euen in their Churches, men and women together, with immodest songs and jestures.

In townes their apparell is verie stately,Their habit. especially of the women; but the countrey peoples is simple and grosse. The men are of a small stature, but strong and rough, and great huntsmen with crossebowes: quiet and peaceable among themselues, and courteous to strangers.

Spaine,Diuisien of Spaine accor­ding to the aun­tients. as wee haue described it by the prouinces and particular people, was diuided into three principall members, or three great prouinces; that is, Betica, Lusitania and Tarraconoise. Betica was so named of the riuer Betis, that is, Guadalquiber, which pas­seth through the middest of it. It did containe that which is inclosed by the riuer Anas, or Guadiana, on the one side, and by the Ocean sea, from the mouth thereof stretching to­wards the strait,The confines of Betique. and then running along the coast of the Mediterranean sea vnto Cartha­gena, or the Promontorie Charidemum, called Cap de Gates: From whence going by land to Castulo, or Caslona the old, it was bounded in on that side by the mountaine Idu­beda, which is at this day called Sierra of Alcarras, and others, as if they would draw a direct line from Muxacra, which is neere vnto Cap de Gates, vnto Almagra. This pro­uince was the best and most fertile of Spaine, and the first affected and vsurped by the Phenici­ans, Africanes, and other strangers.

From the riuer Anas,Iusitania and the confines. or Guadiana, and his entrie into the sea, mounting to the place whereas Duero falls into it, was the West part of Lufitania, the second member of Spaine, the which did lye betwixt those two riuers, on the North and South sides, and within it had for the Easterne limits, the Carpetanes and Oretanes, going from Castulo, or Caslo­na, vpon Guadiana, vnto Septimanca, at this present Simanca, in Castille. The riuer Tayo passeth through the middest of this region, where in some places there are store of all sorts of fruits.

All the rest of Spaine,Tarraconoise & the limits. from the mouth of Duero along the shore vnto Fonterabie, or Easo, and from the Promontorie Charidemum, or Cap de Gates, or else Bara, or Vera, or Muxacra on the Mediterranean sea, vnto Venus Temple, or Cap de Crux, and all the people which are betwixt the Pyrenees and the limits which wee haue giuen to the prouinces of Betica and Lusitania, made the third member of Spaine: yet if wee shall beleeue Mela, the Calaiques,Gallicia the fourth member. that is, the inhabitants of Gallicia, were comprehended among the Lusita­nians; and that others haue made a fourth prouince of them during the emperours: accoun­ting also the Carthagenoise for a fift,Carthagena the fift. and adding the sixt in Africke: for as much as all that which the Romane Emperours did possesse beyond the strait in Mauritania, was subject to the justice of Spaine.Mautitanta the sixt member. But this tripartite diuision of Spaine, is the most auntient, and is not entertained by the Romanes, during their great exploits of armes, and conquests there­of; especially for the gouernement of justice among those nations, hauing wholly subdu­ed them: for they erected Courts, which they called Conuents, appointing to euerie pro­uince his jurisdiction. In Betica there were foure established, at Gades, Corduba, Astigi, and Seuille. In Lusitania three, at Emerita, Pax, or Pezaugusta, and at Scalabita, or S. Iren. And in Tarraconoise seuen, at Carthagena, Tarracone, Caesar Augusta, Clunia, Astorga, at Lugo, and at Bracar.

12 As for the diuision of Spaine into the hither and further,Another diuision of Spaine in re­gard of the war. that happened in the begin­ning when as the Romans came to make war against the Carthaginians, who held it in a ma­ner all, or at the least had reduced it vnder their obedience. The riuer of Ebro made this sepe­ration, and the Romans called that part of Spaine where they first entred, the hither part, and the other beyond Ebro, the further: for they came first by sea vpon the coast of Cattelogne, to Roses, to Empurias, or to Turracon, notwithstanding after they had enlarged their command on the other side Ebro, they did also extend the limits of Spain by little & little on that side, so [Page 24] as in the end it was bounded by the Promontorie of Scombraria, or Cap de Palos, neere to Carthagena, and the descent of the mountaine Idubeda, and so through Castille, by the townes of Cuenca and Seguenza,Spaine reduced to one gouern­ment. vnto the Cantabres, or Biscanes. And this distinction con­tinued in two principall gouernments, for matters of warre and state, till Augustus Caesar, the Romanes sending sometimes Consuls, sometimes Proconsuls, or Pretors, euerie one to go­uerne in his jurisdiction. Afterwards Augustus reduced Spaine into one prouince, the which was entertained by his successours in the empire, at the least vnto Constantine the Great, who changed the Courts of justice into another forme,Fiue seats of iu­stice estaclished in Spaine by Constantine the Great. making fiue chiefe towns, and as many pro­uinces, that is, Tarracone, Carthagene, Seuille, Merida, and Bracar; the which was afterwards entertained by the Gothes, vpon the declining of the empire, who notwithstanding made it but one kingdome while they enjoyed it.

13 But after that the power of the Arabian Mahometists,Many kingdoms erected in Spain by the Arabians and Christians. who had subdued the empire of the Persians, and extinguished the name of other Potentates in the East, had extended it selfe vnto the farthest bounds of Africke, and into the prouinces of Europe, which lay neere vnto it; Spain which was not without vices and defects in the chief members therof, being sudden­ly inuaded & ouerrun by this nation, being euer an enemie to peace and good gouernment, was dismembred, & diuided again into diuers principalities, the names wherof we retaine vn­to this day; that is. Ouiedo and Leon, Nauarre, Arragon, Cattelogne, Valence, Murcia, Gra­nado, Tolledo, Castillia, Gallicia, and Portugal, which for the most part had distinct titles of kingdomes, some being held by the Moores, and others defended by the Gothes and them of the countrey. Of euerie of which kingdomes we meane to make mention in this historie, and to continue it, with the helpe of God, vntill that all Spaine was reduced vnder the command of one king, although it hold still the former diuisions, and their limits, as they were set downe in the time of the Arabians and Moores.

For Cattelogne,Cattelogne and his limits. which comprehends the auntient Indigetes, Castellans, Leetanes, and Acetanes, runnes along the Mediterranean shore, from Cap de Crux, vnto Alfaques, to the mountaine of Moncia, and S. Peters fountaine, where there is a little brooke called Cinia, which makes the limits.

Hauing past this riuer, the Bourg of Vimero is the beginning of Valence, which holds on to Alicante,Valence. and in this realme in old time were comprehended the Edetanes, Ilercaones, and Contestanes.

Then they enter vpon the borders of Murcia and Carthagene,Murcia & Car­thagena. which extend as farre as Almerie, by the Contestanes, Bastitanes, and some part of the Bastules.

From Gibaltar to the mouth of Guadiana,Andelusia. are the bankes of Andelouzia, which some say was so called, for that it is before Lusitania, as if they would say, Ante [...]Lusitania. Others de­riue the name from the Vandales, which haue held it, and cal it Vandalusia: There did the Tur­ditanes, and a part of the Celtique people dwell.

After which they enter into Portugall,Portugal. which runs on vnto the riuer Minio, where it fals in­to the sea, the auntient limits of the Lusitanians, and of the Gallique Brecaires. This realme according to the suruey which king Sebastian caused to bee made in our time, containes 260 leagues in circuit, whereof there is an hundred and twentie towards the sea, and an hundred and fortie to the land.

Gallicia follows from Minio,Gallicia. Bagone, and Ponteuedra, vnto Ribadeo; they were in old time the Lucenses.

Then they come to the Asturians of Ouiedo;Asturie and Ouiedo. from Castropol to Llames, from Llames to Castro Deordiales, are the bankes of the Asturians of Sentillana. These people alone haue retained their auntient name. After which followes the coast of Biscaie, where is Portuga­lette and Bilbao, and stretcheth vnto Ondarroa. Then they come to Guipuscoa at Montrico, which ends at Fontarabie. These were antient Cantabrians, and part Autrigones, Caristians, Vardules, and Vascons vpon the sea.

Nauarre lyes for the most part vpon the sides and vallies of the Pyrenes,Nauarre. which enter into the countrey of Spaine by Romseual, by the valley of Salesar, and the valley Roncal, vnto Hisana, which is the limit of Arragon, and passeth vnto Logrogno, where it confines with Castillia the old. It was the countrey of the Vascons, Vardules, Caristians, and other their neighbours.

[Page 25] Arragon of a small beginning hath imbraced part of the Vascons and Ilergetes,Arragon. on this side Ebro, and on the other side a part of the Celtiberians country. And it was determined in the time of king Iaques the first, from the riuer Cinga at Farisa, and of S. Christine, to the top of the Pyrenees at Aluentosa.

Leon was in old time part of Asturia.Leon.

Castillia the old and new,Castillia. comprehended all the middle countries of Spaine, betwixt the nations aboue named.

As for the passage of the Pyrenees, if these hills went in a direct line, the passage would bee short betwixt the two seas, for they say, that both the one and the other may be easily seene in a cleere day from the tops of some of them, yea from that of S. Adrian.

Spaine is then both in generall and in particular, as we haue described it: and if we consi­der well the situation of this region,Spaine rampa­red vp by nature we may rightly say, that it is rampared and defended by nature against all the attempts and enterprises of strangers, as much as any countrey in the world, being compassed in with the daungerous gulfes of the two seas, and walled vp behind with the hard passages of the Pyrenee mountaines: being moreouer of a temperat and whole­some ayre,Spaine a tempo­rat ayre. and hauing a soyle fit to nourish all things. For there are neither violent winds, nor thicke foggie vapours, nor any insupportable heat of the Sunne: but the aire is sweet and calme, being continually refresht with the North and Westerne winds which come from the sea.

14 Of the fertilitie of Spaine,Fertilitie of Spaine. and the great diuersitie of good things which it produceth, the auntients haue left vs ample and true testimonies, whereof the most autentique are, That the Romanes hauing made warre in the heart thereof, both against the Carthaginians and them of the countrey for aboue two hundred yeares, it did in a manner continually feed these great armies on either side, with that which it did bring forth, and did not onely supplie them with victuals, but also with treasure to entertaine their souldiours, and to satisfie the greedie desire and couetousnesse of their commaunders and captaines; and moreouer hath filled their treasuries full of spoiles both at Rome and Carthage, as shall appeare by the particularities in the progresse of the Historie.

It was Spaine which gaue courage to the Carthaginians to attempt those high enterprises which wee read of them, and did furnish them with meanes to entertaine so many mercina­rie souldiours, wherewith for so many yeares they did trouble and annoy the Romane em­pire, and other nations, without cost or daunger to their owne citizens, who in all these wars did hunt after nothing but honour and profit, to the prejudice of Spaine, and with the bloud of other people.

Wee haue before made some mention how rich it was in mynes of gold,Riches of Spaine. siluer, and all other kinds of mettall: let vs now say boldly, that nature had heapt vp mountaines of trea­sure there, and that the auntients did rightly say in tearmes befitting their Idolatrie, That Pluto dwelt vnder the couering of this earth: the which was the cause of infinit calamities to the Spaniards. For these greedie robbers came from all parts, being drawne thither with the desire of gaine: so as the best aduised were forced to forbid the vse of gold and sil­uer among them by an expresse law. Among others the Betique prouince, which now hath the name of Andalusia, Granado, and thereabouts, was exceeding rich of mines of gold and siluer, and yet the soyle was verie fertile in fruits, the which seemes to bee against naturall reason.

When as the Carthaginians came first into Spaine, vnder the conduct of Amilcar Barca, they found among the Turditanes, the verie mangers for their horses, and hogges­heads, made of pure siluer. Then they began to digge new mynes, and did cruelly toyle the people in those workes;Bebelo a rich myne. and it is said, that out of one onely myne or pit called Bebelo, of his name that found it neere vnto the frontier of Aquitaine, Hannibal did draw aboue three thousand crownes profit euerie day.Rich mynes neere vnto Car­thagena. The Romanes discouered others neere vnto Cartha­gena, where they had foure hundred daily at worke, and did receiue euerie day fiue and twen­tie thousand Drachmes, amounting in a manner to two thousand and fiue hundred French crownes. Yea the plough-men many times in their tillage, raised vp with their plough­shares crusts of gold: and many times vpon the sands the fisher-men did find great store of [Page 26] graines of this mettall, verie pure, which had beene brought from the mountaines with the flouds: yea if they carried water into a drie ground, and watered the earth, the gold would presently shine: so as there were more found in Spaine gathering vp of gold, than in digging it out of their mynes and pits.Copper, Irun, and Tinne. There was as great aboundance of copper, yron, tinne, and all other sorts of mynes, and exceeding good.

Their large and spacious plaines and mountaines did feed infinit troupes of all sorts of cat­tell: the forests were full of red deere, wild boares, and other wild beasts, and all sorts of foule. They say, that in South Spaine there was oftentimes such aboundance of conies, as they were a great ruine vnto their fruits,Caules spoyled their fruits. spoyling the roots vnder the ground, with their working, so as they were much annoyed with them, being ignorant by what meanes to take them, vntill they were taught to vse ferrets, the which were brought them out of Africke.

If the land did so abound in all things,The sea fruitful what shall wee thinke of the sea? The shore (saith Strabo) is full of oysters, and of all other shell-fish: yea in the Ocean, whereas all things exceed in greatnesse and multitude those which are in the other sea, by reason of the flow­ing and ebbing thereof. There are to be seene huge Whales, Grampasses, and other such monsters of the sea, which spout out water, the which seemes a farre off, to bee great pillars or towers of cloudes. How much shall we say that the Congres and Mullets of that Ocean doe exceed ours? About Carteia the Pourcelaines are of ten pounds weight, but without the strait the smaller Mullets and Congres weigh commonly fourescore pounds, the Poulpe or many feet, threescore, the fish called the Cuttle, are two cubits long: the Thon comes thi­ther in great aboundance, delighting in the acornes which fall into the sea, from a certaine kind of small oake which growes along the shore, yeelding such aboundance of this fruit, as being afterwards cast vp by the waues of the sea, the bankes both within and without the straits, are exceeding full, but especially the Ocean, wherewith this fish (which is verie common in that sea) is much delighted, and growes verie fat with it. Many other commen­dations are giuen by the auntients to Spaine, whereof they might well judge, that neuer went out of Italie, by the number of great shipping laden with merchandise and prouisi­on of victualls, which came daily out of that countrey, to the ports of Ostia, Puzzol, and others of Italie, wherein Strabo, Plinie, Mela, and other authors, may satisfie the curious. So as it hath not beene impertinent, if the Poets haue placed the delightful Elisian fields in this part of the world.

Wee cannot with reason doubt of that which they haue written: for although that the mountaines of Gallicia, Asturia, Biscaie, Nauarre, and Arragon, which containe a great countrey, seeme rather to bewray a defect than any great aboundance of fruits; and that in Castille, and part of Portugall, the drought is not fit to bring forth corne: yet conside­ring Spaine in generall, and the whole circuit, wee shall find daily by experience, that it is rich and plentifull of all those things, wherewith it was in old times furnished. For if at that time they did feed whole armies,Spaine fertile as this day. so doe they at this day great and well peopled cities and townes, better frequented and inhabited than in those times.

As for rich mettals, we must confesse, that it yeelds now to antiquitie, and no wonder, for how could the earth supplie the greedie couetousnesse of men, who haue not ceased for ma­ny yeares, and with great toyle to digge into the bowels of the earth? Wee see at this day the pits and caues, out of the which the Romanes drew their siluer, neere vnto Car­thagena, with great heapes of drosse like vnto mountaines. But yet this countrey is not so bare and wasted, but that they haue found in our age, at Guadalcanal, a myne as rich as any at the Indies, which our elders doe witnesse: and there is no doubt, but that gold, siluer, and copper, are to be found in other places.

Biscaye and Guepuscoa alone can furnish yron and steele ynough for a world,Iron and steels abounds there. and with workes which are made of this mettall, namely with Armes, beeing the verie store­house of Spaine. Vittiol, Brimstone, Alum, Orpigment; minerall salt, and such other things, are found in Spaine, both for their owne vse and their neighbours. What wan­teth it of the fertilitie and diuersitie of all sorts of good fruits in a good part of Portu­gall, Andalusia, and almost all alongst the Mediterranean sea? But who can condemne [Page 27] euen the montaines of this region, of barrennesse, which beare so good wines, and so many sorts of fruits?

To conclude, Fraunce, England, and Flanders, are familiar-witnesses of the fruitful­nesse and delights of Spaine: and if they will not serue, wee will appeale to Asia it selfe. Their raisins, oliues, figges, oranges, limons, dates, cytrons, pomegranets, sugar, saf­fron, and such things, are dispersed into all countries, and are better, and more sauorie than in any other place.

In what place of the world doe you find mote sorts of good hearbs,Gardens of Va­lexia. or more pleasant gardens, than in the prouince of Valence? From thence wee haue the best silkes in the world, cotton of Murcia, scarlet, crimson, and other precious colours, with sweet and pleasant perfumes. Finally, all the sences of man are wonderfully pleased with that which comes from thence, and growes in that happie region.

And as for the hilly countrey, which they hold to be barren, and the plaines to be drie, eue­rie one knowes what commoditie those places doe yeeld: and wee find it by experience in Spaine. There they feed infinit troupes of sheepe, whose wooll is admired throughout the world: and yeeld vs also infinit store of Spanish leather, necessarie for many vses, and verie profitable for their neighbours.

They haue timber to serue them as well for the building of houses, as for shipping, whereof they haue great store. And who can denie, that in Nauarre, Asturia, and Gal­licia, there are goodly and fruitfull vallies?Fertilitie of the country betwixt Duero and Mimo. Can wee desire a countrey more abounding in all good things, than that which is betwixt the riuers of Duero and Minio, at this time belonging vnto the Realme of Portugall? the which being scarce a day and a halfs journey in length, and much lesse in breadth, hath an Archbishopricke, which is that of Braga, Porto Gallego, a bishopricke, and containes in it aboue one thousand and foure hundred parishes, fiue hundred Colledges of Canons, and one hundred and thirtie. Conuents: it hath six ports of the sea, aboue two hundred bridges of stone, and two thousand and fiue hundred fountaines.

But who doth not admire the Genets of Spaine,The horses of Spaine. which I had almost forgotten, their beautie, swiftnesse, and easinesse to breake, especially of those of Andalusia, which drinke of the water of Guadalquibir, whereby, according to the Spaniards opinion, they are made more nimble and swift? Of this race was the horse which Iulius Caesar esteemed so much, as when hee was dead, hee caused his image to be set vp in Venus Temple at Rome. Of them and of the Lusitanians their neighbours,Mares conce [...] ­uing by the wind. the auntients would make vs beleeue, that they were conceiued by the winds which the mares did receiue when they were desi­rous of the horse, blowing from the West, namely from the places where the horses feed; the which some thinke not impossible. Of all these things no man that hath any knowledge of the world can doubt.

And if any one would object, That Spaine cannot bee so fertile as wee make it, for that they are supplied with corne from Fraunce, England, Sicile, and Germanie: and that they carrie great store of linnen cloth, and other merchandise, out of Brittaine, Normandie, Flanders, Holland, and elsewhere, without the which the Spaniards must of necessitie perish: Let him consider the great regions discouered by the Spaniards, within these hun­dred and twentie yeares: what great fleets Spaine hath continually entertained, rigged, and victualed, as well for the East as Westerne voiages; and what need they haue to furnish those countries whith such things as they borrow, whereof without doubt they should haue sufficient for themselues, but not to furnish a new world: the which doth also wast their men daily to people these discouered countries:The nature of the Spaniards. And withall let him adde the haughtie and couetous disposition of the Spanish nation, who doe willingly leaue their labour, to goe vnto the mynes, or to goe to the warres, and neuer follow any worke, but when they are forced by necessities.

15 Hauing hitherto discoursed of the situation and fertilitie of Spaine,The manners of the Spaniards. let vs speake something of the manners and kind of life, which the Spaniards haue from time to time obserued; that being entred into our discourse, wee may not bee interrupted therewith. When as the Carthaginians came into Spaine, and long after the Romanes had got some [Page 28] footing, there were few walled townes in the countrey, but many great burroughes and vil­lages. The most ciuile were they of the Betique prouince, and the worst souldiours of them all, giuing themselues to trade of merchandise by sea, and somewhat to letters, and in a ma­ner like vnto those that liue vpon the coast of the Mediterranean sea. But as for the rest, they were all rustick and barbarous,The qualities of the mountaine Spaniards. namely the Mountainers, and aboue all the Gallicians, Astu­rians, and Cantabrians, whose ordinarie trade was to rob and steale, contemning labour, vn­till that the Romanes taught them to liue more ciuilly and peaceably, ruining their forts and retreats. They were traitors, spies, and readie vpon all occasions to steale. They carried tar­guets two foot long, & a dagger at their sides, clothed in a doublet of linnen cloth stifned and quilted:Armes of the an­tient Spaniards. and these were their armes. For there were no cuirasses nor head-peeces among them, but on their heads they carried high hats made of sinewes, and on their legges boots of haire, and in their hands many darts: some of them carried jauelins whereof the heads were of copper. They wore long haire like women. Their exercises were fencing and run­ning both on foot and horsebacke, and their combates by troupes: They loued libertie aboue all things,Libertie deere to the Spaniards. which made the Romanes to see many examples of crueltie, euen in the weakest sex: for there were many mothers among the Cantabrians, which slue their own children, ma­ny daughters who for the like cause murthered their parents: so deere libertie was vnto this nation; to maintaine the which, and fearing they might be forced in any thing, they did vsual­ly carrie poyson about them: and if they were surprised and made slaues, they sought by some notable villanie to giue their masters occasion to kill them. It was often seene, that when they were tyed to the crosse to be executed, they did sing for joy of their approaching death: but some haue shewed this resolution vpon good and commendable occasions, as to conceal the secrets of their masters and friends, or after they had reuenged their death, or the wrong which had beene done them.

Their religion was infamous,The Spaniards religion infa­mous. for they sacrificed humane creatures vnto their gods, euen their prisoners, cutting off their right hands, to offer them vp: Their Priests and Diuines tooke their conjectures from the intrals both of men and beasts; but aboue all they tooke their diuination from their countenances, when as they receiued the deadly blow, and fell to the ground.

As for their manner of liuing,The Spaniards liuing simple and rude. it was simple and rude: they dranke water, lay vpon the ground, and did eat the flesh of goats which they did sacrifice vnto Mars: they made cakes of dried acornes, the which they did eat warme. They did willingly banquet with their parents, and had tables and seats of stone, against the wall, where they did appoint the most honourable places according to their ages and dignities. They had no vse of siluer coined, but did exchange ware for ware. They had a beastly and filthie manner of washing and per­fuming themselues, with vrine which had stood long stinking, with the which both men and women did rub their bodies and faces, yea euen their teeth, imagining that it was a preser­uatiue against many infirmities; the which is not disallowed by the Physitians. This filthie obseruation was common then in Spaine among them all.

They did seuerely punish malefactors,Their manner of iustice. and especially parricides, whom they did stone without their confines. If any one were sicke, they carried him into the highwayes, and cor­ners of the streets, after the manner of the Aegyptians, to take counsell and helpe of such as had beene troubled with the like diseases.Their manner of beats. Vntill the time of the Romane emperours, they had vsed boats made of beasts skins; afterwards they began to make them of wood, taking the bodies of great trees, and making them hollow like vnto troughes.

In this simplicitie and rudenesse did the auntient Spaniards of the mountaines liue, which were those of Gallicia, Asturia, and Cantabria, and the inhabitans of the Pyrenees, whose countrey was full of wood and water,Pouertie assures the peoples libertie. but otherwise verie barren, by reason where­of they enjoyed their libertie long, and were last of all subdued by the Romanes; so as in the time of the emperour Tiberius Nero, there was yet some contention. The Iberians, and Cel­tiberians were somewhat more ciuile, for that they had more commerce with strangers, and were neere unto the Mediterranean sea, which was more frequented than the Ocean. In the war they carried round targuets,The discipline of the Celtiberians. fortified with sinewes, short swords, darts, and slings: in their battails they did mingle some light horsemen with their footmen: they did accustome their [Page 29] horses to hills and vallies, and by that meanes kept them in breath, and made them swift, yea they did teach them to kneele when they made a certaine signe. They attired themselues of blacke wooll and short.Preparation for yron. They prepared yron to forge their armes and harneis, driuing it out into plates, the which they buried in the ground for certaine dayes, vntill the rust had eaten a­way that which was vnprofitable, & then they made their swords and other cutting weapons. They did commonly carie two swords, and did fight more willingly on foot than on horse­backe: for when as they found themselues to haue any aduantage vpon the enemie, they left their horses, to joyne with their footmen, pursuing them that fled with great agilitie, the which was naturall to all Spaniards. They were reasonably courteous to strangers; but they did punish them that had done them any wrong verie cruelly. They did liue of flesh and fruits, and did drinke water with honie, whereof their countrey did abound; and sometimes they had wine, which they bought from strangers comming from the neighbour coasts. Their neighbours with whom they had the greatest amitie and commerce, were the Vaccees, and Areuaces, at that time a part of Castillia the old: they agreed well with them in all sorts of traffique. Euerie yeare they made a diuision of their lands, and assigned them by portions and lots to certaine particular persons, who did till and sow for the rest, whilest that others were imployed in the warres, or about some other affaires: then they diuided the fruits which they gathered. And if any one were conuicted, that he had embesiled any thing, he was pu­nished with death. In time of peace they did banquet and daunce, leaping and frisking with great agilitie: and they went to the warre according to the measure of instruments, singing rusticke and militarie songs.

Such in a manner were the Lusitanians, with whom the Celtes were mingled, and seated in their countrey, leading their liues for the most part as theeues, which they learned from them of Gallicia and Asturia,Manners of the Spaniards in generall. their neighbours. Generally all the most barbarous Spaniards were nimble and actiue, so as they could easily escape from their enemies, or pursue them when they had the better; neither were their spirits lesse actiue than their bodies: great vndertakers: of few words: patient and hardie in trauell, enduring hunger, thirst, and other discommodities. Their women were nothing daintie,The women halfe men. but did exercise themselues like vnto the men: and if they were deliuered of child, they lay not long, but fell soone to their worke: they washt their chil­dren as soone as they were borne in the neerest brooke, and then they wrapt them vp in their swathing clothes. But after that the Romans were entred, and somewhat setled in Spain, these people were forced by little and little to learne another discipline, and to frame them­selues to a more ciuile kind of life, being gouerned by more politike lawes, they of Betica and the Turditanes exceeding the rest alwaies in mildnesse and humanitie:The tractable­nesse of the Spa­niards of Ande­lousia. for these were present­ly changed to the Romans manners and discipline, forgetting their owne language, to im­brace the other. Many townes were also built and peopled in diuers parts of Spaine, and the Romans and Latines mixt with the Originaries of the countrey, who accustomed themselues so well to the Latine tongue,The Spanish tongue a corrup­ted latine. as it since continued in Spaine: for the Castillian tongue at this day is nothing in a maner but a corrupted Latine. And the Spaniards grew such, as many a­mong them did make their fame equall with the most esteemed among the Romans: the two Senecas were Spaniards,Great persona­ges Spaniards. with Silius, Martial, Lucan, Pomponius Mela, Portius Latro the Orator, Quintillian, Columella, and the good emperors Traian and Theodosius, were Spaniards.

The Romans by the experience which they had, and the more to augment their owne glo­rie, giue great titles of honor and commendation to this nation, whom they found somewhat instructed in armes, and some discipline, by the Carthaginians. They call it rich in souldiours, and a seminary of the enemies armies, which had fashioned that great captain Hannibal; and in all they speak highly of Spaine, & not without reason: for the great courage and resolution of them of Numantia, was memorable, a towne without walls, without towers, and without de­fences, seated only vpon a little hill,The magnan [...] ­mitie of the N [...] ­mantin [...]s. and couered on the one side with a riuer, and defended by a few souldiours, who notwithstanding withstood the force of mightie Roman armies for the space of 14 yeres, & not only made head against them, but also repulst them oftē to their great losse. In the end being besieged by aboue 40000 men, or, as some say, 60000, being prest by fa­mine, and forced to demaund a peace, finding no grace with their enemies, who had compast them in with forts and trenches, being resolued vpon the last refuge, which was death, they [Page 30] made so furious a sallie vpon the Romanes, as an infinit number of them were slaine vpon the place, which was a deere purchase vnto the enemie. This happened during the Celtiberiqu [...] warre, which continued twentie yeares. This magnanimitie, courage, adresse and militarie dis [...]cipline, were thus begun, and by little and little augmented in this nation by the Carthagini­ans and Romanes, in making warre against them: whom without doubt they might haue bin able to haue resisted,Ignorance makes people subiect. if they had knowne their owne force and wealth, and if they had sooner learned good lawes and policie, which maintaine people in amitie and concord. This was the first prouince which the Romanes did assaile vpon the firme land, and the last which they sub­dued. The strength of Pompeyes armie when he encountred Caesar in Macedonia, were the Spa­nish bands, which were in his armie, if he could haue vsed them.

Faith and constancie in the end tooke place among this nation, whereof Hannibal had often made triall. But what example can we find more memorable, than the fidelitie of the Sagun­tines to the people of Rome, for the which they lost wiues, children, citie, and liues?

By little and little they also left that diuelish superstition of sacrificing of men, accustoming themselues to more mildnesse and humanitie, and practising daily better discipline vnder the Romans commaund; as if God would reforme them by their meanes, and prepare them to receiue the true and wholesome doctrine of Iesus Christ:The true religi­on receiued with great affection by the Spaniards the which this nation did imbrace happily in the beginning, with great fruit and notable examples in the Church of God. But after that the barbarous nations were dispersed ouer all Europe, hauing troden vnder foot the Majestie of the Romane empire, and inuaded the chiefe prouinces thereof, chased a­way all learning, and good discipline, and infected the earth with heresies and superstitious ce­remonies, the ignorance of God and of his seruice, entred into Spaine, which our age doth yet feele.Damnable arts in Spaine. Then was a time when as they kept publike schools of Magicke arts and conjuring, to the which they had made subject Philosophie, Astrologie, Physicke, yea and Diuinitie it selfe.

But leauing these things which belong to other discourses, let vs say, That the Spaniards in those dayes were of diuers conuersations, as they were a mixture of diuers nations. They are apt to receiue discipline in all things,Manners of the Spaniards in these times. according to the disposition of princes and lords, whom they serue, they are faithfull and constant vnto them, desiring to be in perpetuall action, by reason of the agitation of their spirits, which is like vnto the agilitie of their bodies, who for the most part are leane and drie. They are sober and vigilant, but verie couetous, patient of heat, cold, hunger, thirst, and all other discommodities, especially if there be any hope of profit or honour, for the which they hazard themselues resolutely to all dangers: they desire to bee well apparelled, and esteeme armes and horses aboue all things: they are impudent braggers of their owne actions, vertue, and nobilitie: ciuile to conuerse withall, louing good townes, copious in their language, much giuen to women; for the most part vnlearned, shewing little art in that they do, disdaining labour, & a country life. The women are sober, louing their hus­bands or their friends deerely, but wonderfull delicat, and curious of painting and perfumes, retaining therein nothing of the auntient Spaniards: they nor their children drinke not any wine.Language in vse among the Spaniards at this day. The countrey language at this day, is for the most part Roman or Latine corrupted and mingled with some other words of such nations as haue held it in these last ages. The Biscane tongue is preserued in Biscaie, and part of Nauarre, and other their neighbours: but in Gra­nado, Andalusia, Murcia, and Valence, especially among the rusticke multitude, the Moorish and the Arabian tongue is in great vse: and in all ages almost, the people of Spaine haue vsed diuers languages, and were different one from another. Making an end of this booke, we will relate in the following, by what meanes and titles euerie nation hath from time to time held it.

THE SECOND BOOKE OF the Historie of Spaine.

• 1 THe reasons which moued the Carthaginians and Romanes to inuade Spaine vpon the West and South parts, lying vpon the sea.
• 2 The Island of Ebusus or Iuisa first conquered by the Carthaginians.
• 3 Spaine exposed to the spoyle in the first Punicke warre.
• 4 Sagunte taken by Hanniball, which was the occasion of the second Punicke warre, and of the set­ling of the Romanes Empire in Spaine.
• 5 Hannibals passage into Italie.
• 6 Cn. Scipio in Spaine, and his gouernment.
• 7 P. Scipio goes into Spaine: the war of the two brethren against Asdrubal Barcinien, and others.
• 8 Separation of the two armies, of P. and Cn. Scipios, whereof followed their defeat and death.
• 9 The Romanes Estate reuiued in Spaine by the vertue of Lucius Martius.
• 10 Discourse of the doubtfull euents of warre.
• 11 C. Nero sent from Rome into Spaine, circumuented by Asdrubal.
• 12 P. Com. Scipio comes into Spaine as Pro-consul; his manners and vertues.
• 13 The taking of new Carthage, the store-house for the Carthaginians in Spaine.
• 14 Scipio his acts after the taking of new Carthage: his iustice, religion, discipline, and gouernment: his temperance, liberalitie, and policie towards the Spaniards: care, preparation, and prouision for the warre.
• 15 Reuolt of many Noblemen and Townes of Spaine.
• 16 Asdrubal defeated at Becula, a Towne and Riuer, with other things done by Scipio.
• 17 Asdrubal Barcinien passeth into Italie, and abandons Spaine. M. Sillanus exploits against the o­ther Carthaginian captaines.
• 18 The exploits of L. Scipio, brother to the Pro-consull.
• 19 Other acts done by the Pro-consull Scipio: the last attempts of the Carthaginians in Spaine, and the retreat of Asdrubal, sonne to Gisgo.
• 20 Practises with Masinissa Prince of Numidia. P. Scipio the Pro-consull passeth into Africke, to stirre vp enemies against the Carthaginians in their owne countrey.
• 21 The taking and punishing of the townes of Illiturgis and Castulo, which had beene trecherous to the Romanes.
• 22 Diuers Playes, Shewes, and Sacrifices made at Carthage the new by P. Scipio, in honor of P. and Cn. Scipio his father and vncle.
• 23 Exploits of L. Martius, and the miserable end of the Astapeens.
• 24 Reuolt of Indibilis and Mandonius captaines, and of the Roman souldiors wintering neere vn­to the riuer of Sucro, and of their punishment.
• 25 Masinissa woon by the Romanes.
• 26 Departure of Mago Barcin out of Spaine: his fruitlesse enterprise against new Carthage: his crueltie against the Gaditanes: their reuolt vnto the Romanes: Mago his passage into Italie.
• 27 P. Cornelius Scipio his returne to Rome, hauing gotten an absolute victorie of the Cartha­ginians in Spaine.

[Page 32] SOme ages before the first warre betwixt the Romanes and the Cartha­ginians, which grew by reason of the Isle of Sicile, the Gaditanes ex­tracted from the citie of Tyr, couetous and malicious according to the nature of slaues,The Tyrians of the race of slaues from whence it may be they were issued (for we read, that the bondmen of the Tyrians on a time slew all their masters, and made themselues Lords of the towne; the which they held vntill A­lexander the Great, who did root out the race of them) began to tor­ment the Spaniards their neighbours, chasing them out of their lands and possessions, making them slaues, and entreating them in the vildest manner they could; which was the cause of great warre and diuision in that quarter of Spaine: so as injuries on either part encreasing daily, the naturall borne disdaining the arrogancie of these strangers, and enuying their greatnesse, made a generall league of many Communalties against them: whereupon they of Gades finding themselues too weake to make head against so great a mul­titude, they resolued to call in to their succour, and to the spoyle of Spaine, the Carthagini­ans of Africke,The Gaditanes call the Cartha­ginians into Spaine. their brethren, comming from the same race and towne. The citie of Car­thage was then a great Commonweale, the which had a great jurisdiction among the Afri­canes, and sought onely to enlarge their Empire; so as they were readie to run into Spaine, with this honest and religious pretext, to succour the oppressed: whereas they not onely freed the Gaditanes from all feare of the Spaniards, but did also subdue the people of Spaine, setled themselues there,Carthaginians desire more to be great than iust. and gouerned it as their Prouince: from whence they drew after­wards so great treasure and other commodities, as they presumed to assayle the greatest Po­tentates in the world.

The name of Spaniards, before this warre, had beene great among other nations, onely in regard that they serued as a prey to all strangers: which were they only which held the lower countrey, and the coast of the Mediterranean sea, and part of the Ocean, South and West: a­mong the which, some nations of Europe and Asia had built and peopled some townes. As for those which liued in the heart of the countrey, and in the mountains, their fame was more obscure, being for the most part rough and barbarous, hauing scarce any commerce with strangers, but to rob and steale, which was their best practise: and therefore vntill the com­ming of the Carthaginians, they had beene as it were free, and assured both from inuasion and trade, doing wrong rather than taking any: but afterwards they did all in generall learne to manage armes with discipline, they vndertooke parties, contracted alliances among them­selues, and with other nations, growing by little and little more politicke, ciuile, and cour­teous. The Celtes were alreadie mingled with the Iberians about the riuer of Ebro; and pas­sing on, they obtained lands and habitations in Lusitania, and in a corner of Betica, which was neere vnto them: then passing the riuer of Duero, they planted themselues betwixt it and Minio; and consequently to the mountains, in the countrey, which from them tooke the name of Gallicia, and doth still hold it; whereas they built the towne of Porto, vpon the con­fines of the Lusitanians, which is at this time a Bishopricke, retaining the name of Portugall, and so goes on to the Westerne sea.

2 The Celtes, Iberians, and other Spaniards farre from the sea, as they were almost like in manners, had (as is sayd) maintained their reputation free and vnited, vntill this descent of the Carthaginians: who hauing resolued to settle themselues in Spaine, sei­zed first vpon the Island of Iuisa,Masee the first Generall of the Carthaginian arme in Spaine 562 yeres before Christ. and fortified it, Masee being Generall of this Armie. This was fiue hundred sixtie two yeares before the comming of Christ, and an hundred eightie nine yeares after the foundation of Rome. After which time, watching their op­portunitie, eight and fortie yeares after, they sent a great fleet of shippes into Spaine, led by one Maherbal, vnder colour to relieue the Gaditanes, who had beene vanquished by Baucius Capis, then reigning ouer the Turditanians, their neighbours. The name of the protection and support of this puissant Commonweale of Carthage, purchased the Ga­ditanes a peace and free trade; the which drew so manie families from Carthage into the Island and Citie, as exceeding the rest, they got the absolute commaund thereof, Ma­herbal yet liuing.

The Carthaginians continued for a time without any care of the affaires of Spaine, beeing very much afflicted with drought and other discommodities, they hauing great [Page 33] warre in Sicile and Sardinia, but about the yeare 255 they vndertooke againe the conquest of Spaine, whither they sent Asdrubal and Amilcar, sonnes to Mago. Passing by Sardinia, As­drubal was slaine there, leauing three children, Hanniball the eldest, Asdrubal, and Psappho. A­milcar was diuerted from Spaine by the warres of Sicile, where he was also slaine, and had three sonnes in like manner, Himilco, Hanno, and Gisgo. The yeare 272 after the foundation of Rome, they sent a small supplie of nine hundred souldiors into Spaine, whom they would haue land in the Islands of the Baleares; but they were repulsed: and soon after Psappho, sonne to Asdrubal, had charge to keepe the Spaniards in awe (who were sollicited by the Africane Moores their neighbours, to joyne with them against the Carthaginians) who by his wise­dome restrained them; and moreouer, got sufficient forces from them to force the Moores to sue for peace, and to giue ouer their enterprises against the citie of Carthage. In this warre the vertue of Saruc of Barce (a towne neere vnto Carthage) author of the Barcinian faction, was very famous. Psappho liued in great reputation, who after his death was by opinion re­ceiued into the number of the gods; the which he had procured during his life. For he had caused certaine birds to be taught to speake, and made them learne to say, That Psappho was a great god. Which birds being let flye, they chattered out those words in the fields, to the great admiration of the people. After his decease the Prouince of Spaine was committed to Himilco and Hanno (the sonnes of Amilcar) his cousins, who tried by faire and plausible means to draw the inhabitants of the Baleares to liue in amitie with their Commonweale.

Hanno being arriued at Gades, and desiring to discouer the country, and the coast of Spaine without the strait, he sayled vnto the holy Promontorie, or Cap S. Vincent: and hauing gi­uen aduice vnto the Senat of that which he had seene and vnderstood, he obtained leaue to continue his discouerie as well vpon the coast of Spaine, as Africke, in the Ocean sea: where­upon he prepared two fleets; the one for the coast of Europe, and to passe vnto the Gaules, and farther if he might; the charge whereof he gaue vnto his brother Himilco, and of the o­ther he would be captaine and conductor himselfe, and sayle towards Africke: so in the begin­ning of the yeare 307 of the foundation of Rome they set sayle, either of them taking his course. Himilco parting from the port of Heraclee, which was in the strait, coasted the Me­senians and Selbitians, passed the Promontorie of Iuno, and the mouth of the riuer Cylbis, which runneth betwixt Barbarie and Huelua, neere vnto the which in old time was the Island of Erythrea, which is not to be seene at this day, vnlesse it be that of Gades it selfe: and then he discouered the Tartessian forrests, and did see the Turditanes coast, whereas the riuer Betis fell into the sea at that time by foure mouthes, afterwards reduced to two, but now there is but one. Passing on, there came into his sight Mont Cassius, rich in veines of Tynne, from whence it is likely it tooke his name: beyond the which, the riuer, which they now call Tinte, (whose water is excellent good to dye blacke) fals into the sea, neere vnto Palos of Moguer. This riuer was in old time called Iberus, as that which passeth and looseth it selfe at Tarra­cone. From thence Himilco passed neere vnto Proserpinas Temple, built vpon a point which runneth farre into the sea; vnto which place come the Marian hils: and a little more forward riseth Mont Zephirus, whose top is alwaies hidden in the clouds: about the which for a good distance the shoare is full of rockes vnto Mont Saturne, the which is among the Cenits, by the which the riuer Anas or Guadiana doth run; at the mouth whereof were two Islands, where­of the greatest was called Agone. Passing on by a long course towards the holy Promonto­rie, and hauing doubled it, this Carthaginian armie came to the port of Cenis, neere vnto the Islands which they now call Persegueres. Not farre from thence dwelt the Dragans, a people of Lusitania, compassed in by the mountaines Cephis and Sempis, right against the Islands of Stremnie, the which stands farre into the sea: but neerer vnto these Dragants was another Island called Acala, about the which the waters were blew and wonderfull cleere, but very stinking, whereof there are at this day no markes. Aboue Alcala was the mountaine Cyprilian. Himil [...]o hauing sayled along the coast, hee discouered the Island Pelagie, full of greene trees, the which he durst not touch, being consecrated to Saturne, hearing, that if any saylers would land there, the sea was troubled. The shoare which goes vnto the mouth of Tayo was inhabited by the Saries, a cruell and a barbarous people, whose Promontorie was for that cause called Barbaresque. There notwithstanding was planted the Greeke Colonie Olysippo, which is Lisbone at this day. These Nauigators came to the Promontorie Nerium, [Page 34] which is Finis terrae, and to the neighbour Islands called also Stremnies, for that the inhabi­tants of the Island of Stremnie aboue mentioned, being forced to leaue it for the multitude of Serpents which were there, they retyred into these Islands. There is no further mention made of Himilcos nauigation.

As for Hanno, Hannos voyage vpon the coast of Africke. he made a longer voyage: his armie consisted of many vessels, carrying a­boue thirtie thousand persons of both sexes: hee planted a Colonie vpon the sea coast of Africke (the which is now Azamor) the which he called Thimateria: he passed on beyond the foot of Mont Atlas, towards Numidia and Lybia: he discouered the fortunat Islands, which are the Canaries, and those of Cap Verd, which is the point of the Hesperides; the Island of Argin, in old time Cerne; and the Gorgones, so named by him; the mouths of the great riuer Niger, the which hath Crocodiles in it, and sea horses as well as Nil, vntill he came vnto the Island named at this day S. Thome, vnder the Equinoctiall. Some say, that hee doubled the point of Africke, or Cap bonne Esperance, and passed as farre as the Arabicke sea, and from thence returned to Carthage by Aegypt, reporting, That he had seene men all couered with haire; which it may be were Apes, for there are very great and dangerous ones in some part of Africke; and other wonders. He returned to Carthage fiue yeares after his departure.

It was in the yeare 312 of the foundation of Rome, when these two captaines vndertooke their voyages; Gisgo their brother gouerned Spaine in their absence: and thinking to returne to Carthage, to be partaker of the feasts and joy which were made in regard of their prospe­rous voyages, he perished with all his ships at sea.

Hannibal Hannibal sent into Spaine. brother to Psappho, and cousin to these, surnamed the ancient, was sent into Spaine, and with him Mago his kinsman. Mago stayed at the Baleares, and he passed to Calis: and some hold, that he built a fort at the place which is called Lagos, the which was named Port Hannibal: there was also built in his time, at the mouth of the riuer of Betis, Lucifers Temple, dedicated to the goddesse Venus, whose starre was called Phosphoros, or Lucifer: it is S. Lucar of Barraneda at this present. During their time and gouernment there grew great warre betwixt the Spaniards of Betica and the Lusitanians, dwelling by the riuer Anas, the which was nourished by the Carthaginians and their captaines Hannibal and Mago.

The Commonweale of Carthage had then great warres in the Island of Sicile,Warre in Sicile by the Carthagi­nians. kindled a­bout the yeare 346 of the foundation of Rome, by the Agrigentines, who did murther the Carthaginian garrisons, being busie at their sacrifices: wherefore by decree of the Senat there were leuies of men made in Spaine, and in the Islands of the Baleares. But the Agrigentines were defeated in battaile, and then besieged for the space of two yeares, who in the end were forced to yeeld to their mercie, who entreated them very roughly: whereupon they had re­course vnto Denis the old, by whose aduice they freed themselues of those that did oppresse them, and tooke from the Carthaginians the townes of Camerine and Gele. Denis although he dissembled, seeming to be a neuter, found himselfe so ingaged, as he was forced to take armes against the Carthaginians, by whom hee was vanquished, but with great losse of their men: the rest of the Carthaginian armie, where Himilco Sepas had the leading of tenne thou­sand Spaniards, was consumed by the plague: whereat Himilco was so grieued, as being retur­ned to Carthage, refusing to see either children or friends, he slew himselfe in his house. After these ruins, by the industrie of Denis a peace was concluded betwixt the Carthaginians & the Sicilians, or rather a truce for 30 yeres. This was in the yere 356 of the foundation of Rome.

About that time some ships of Carthage, dispersed by tempest, or else of set purpose fol­lowing Hannos discouerie, or imitating his designes, came vnto a great Island, which wee may thinke to be that of S. Dominique at this day: which made them of Carthage to affect these voyages with such vehemencie, as to diuert them, the Senat resolued to cause them to be slaine which were returned, and had brought the newes, fearing least their citie and coun­trey should be vnpeopled.

The truce being expired,New warres in Sicile. the Carthaginians prepared againe to warre in Sicile; during the which truce, they had aduanced their authoritie and credit among the Spaniards, entertaining diuisions among them, and taking parties: so as they had meanes at one time to bring to the warres of Sicile 20000 foot and 1000 horse of that nation, making them by this means weake against their own designs: to which forces they added 300 Majorquins, which vsed slings, and 10000 Africanes, making Hanno chiefe of this armie, who should suddainly inuade the Island, [Page 35] whilest that Denis made warre in Italie. But Suniat a Carthaginian enuying Hannos charge, aduertised Denis of this preparation; and as he continued in this trecherie, he was discouered by the taking of a ship in the strait by them of Carthage, in the which were found his letters and aduertisements to Denis, written in Greeke; whereupon he was taken and punished: and it was decreed at Carthage, That no Carthaginian should learne the Greeke tongue: but Denis his armie at sea was defeated, whereby the Carthaginians affaires prospered in Sicile.

Denis being dead,Truce with the Sicilians. and his sonne of the same name succeeding him, vnder the gouernment of Dion his kinsman, the warre ended by a long truce betwixt the Carthaginians & Sicilians, and Hanno returned with great treasure which he had gottē of those spoiles. He was presently sent to Calis, and Bostar to Majorca, and to that part of Spaine which is opposit: Hanno tyrannizing ouer the people in his gouernment, prouoked them to rebell; so as to subdue & punish them, he called the Moores into Spaine, who afflicted them cruelly. The complaints being come vn­to Carthage, Hanno was called home and discharged of his gouernment; who in disdain there­of attempted to poyson the whole Senat in a banket which he prepared for his daughters mar­riage.Hannos trecheri [...] against the Se­nat of Carthage. This trecherie being discouered and dissembled, they presently made Sumptuarie law, limitting the number of persons, and the sorts of meats at such feasts. But hauing escaped pu­nishment, yet fearing it, he sought notwithstanding to trie his force, with a multitude of slaues which he, his kinsmen, and friends had: wherewith the people being incensed, they besieged him, & tooke him in his house, and then deliuered him to the Iudges; by whose decree his eies were put out, his lims broken, his body torne with whips, and then hung vpon a crosse: his chil­dren and all his kinsfolkes were also put to death, that they should haue no desire of reuenge. A cruell example, but excusable in the Africans, for the foulenesse of the offence and the inte­rest of their countrey.The Carthagini­ans continue in the conquest of Spaine. The Carthaginians affecting much the conquest of Spaine, pursued it without any disturbance, sending good Gouernors and wise captains: wherein they prospered daily in such sort, as they might terme themselues masters therof, and so did enjoy it for aboue 350 yeares, all the people of Spaine being their subjects or allies; vntill that the Romanes be­gan 3 to make some practises,The Romanes seeke to get foo­ting in Spaine by emulation. seeking to draw the people vnto them, and to be assured of them, when any occasion should be offered. So either of these Commonweales made way for their great designes, yet not entring into any ouert action: but the Island of Sicile assayled by the Carthaginians, and especially the towne of Messina, did so engage them, as it could not be ap­peased but with the ruine of the one party.Messina the cause of the first Punicke warres. For the space of 115 yeares there was either open war, preparations for war, or a counterfeit peace betwixt the Romans and the Carthaginians. They entred into this hostilitie 489 yeres after the foundation of Rome, and about 262 yeres before Christ. This first warre was decided in Sicile, and in the Mediterranean sea, during 24 yeares; in which time the people of Spaine did adhere sometimes to one partie, sometimes to another, as their affaires succeeded: the Carthaginians being in the end forced to demaund a peace of the Romans,Spain nourisheth the hatred be­twixt the Ro­mans and Car­thaginians. the rest of their hatred and splene continued yet in Spaine for a time: for those which had rebelled against the Carthaginians, sought to maintaine their liberties by the fauour of the Romanes, who encouraged and assisted them vnder hand: yet Amilcar, surnamed Barca, father to Hannibal, being appointed Gouernor and Lieutenant generall for the Cartha­ginians in Spaine, subjected vnder their obedience almost all the nations and townes which had beene distracted, and did shake the allies of the contrarie faction. He was an irreconcilia­ble enemie to the Romanes,Priuat passion in Amilcar was the ruine of his countrey. and would that his sonne Hannibal should succeed him in the like affection, and (as we say) should sucke it from his mothers breasts; binding him thereunto in his youth by othes and religious ceremonies. For as he prepared to passe into Spaine with the ar­mie, offering the accustomed sacrifices vnto their gods, to haue a prosperous voiage, he caused his sonne Hannibal (being then scarce nine yeares old) to approach vnto the altar, and hauing commaunded him to lay his hand vpon the sacrifice, he made him sweare, That as soone as he should be able to beare armes, he should employ them to annoy the Romans, and declare him­selfe their enemie.Amicar slaine by the Spaniards Whilest that Amilcar relies too much on his good fortune, and pursues the rebels in Spaine inconsideratly, he was slaine, hauing done great exploits in nine yeares space. They attribute the restoring and enlarging of Barcelone vnto him, and according vnto some, the naming of it.

Asdrubal his sonne in law succeeded him, a wise and a valiant man, vnder whom Hanni­bal learned his first precepts of warre. And as the troubles did not onely continue, but also [Page 36] encrease in Spaine, new rebellions growing daily,The Carthagini­ans tyrannie ad­uanced the Ro­mans credit in Spaine. by reason of the Carthaginians crueltie and tyrannie, the Romanes were sollicited by many to take them into their protection; where­unto they did willingly giue eare. Wherupon these two Commonweales were vpon tearmes to enter into a more cruell warre than euer: to auoid the which, it was aduised by the Senate of Rome to send Quintus Luctatius into Spaine, to treat with the Carthaginians, and to settle some good course for the affaires of that countrey. So as betwixt Luctatius for the Romans, and Asdrubal for the Carthaginians, there was a peace renewed and confirmed betwixt those two Estates,A new accord betwixt the Ro­manes and Car­thaginians. and the friends and allies of either part in Spaine; appointing the riuer of Ebro for a limit and barre betwixt them, beyond the which they might not lead any armie. And for that the towne of Saguntum being then rich and populous, held them long in debate, either desiring to haue it on his faction, in the end (not able to agree) it was concluded, That it should remaine neuter, vse her owne lawes, and be maintained in her libertie, and that neither partie should attempt any thing to the preiudice thereof.

The Estate of Spaine being thus ordered, the peace (which was not well assured betwixt the Romanes and Carthaginians) continued three and twentie yeres, or thereabouts, accoun­ting from the day that it was concluded in Sicile. Asdrubal gouerned Spaine beyond Ebro eight yeares, and aduaunced the affaires of his Commonweale more by mildnesse than by armes; whom they make the founder of new Carthage: but returning to a rigorous course, his crueltie incited a Gaule,The great reso­lution of a ser­uant louing his master. who serued him, to murther him, reuenging the death of a Lord of Lusitania his master, whom Asdrubal had caused to bee slaine, whose head he caused to bee carried through the countrey vpon a launce, after that he had hanged the bodie vpon a crosse. This seruant being taken, died in the extremitie of his torments, singing and laughing for joy that he had done the deed.

4 Before the death of Asdrubal it was propounded in the Senat of Carthage, If it were expedient to send Hannibal into Spaine, vnder the discipline of his brother in law, who de­maunded him? Among the Senators there was one of great esteeme, called Hanno, being of a contrarie faction to the familie of the Barciniens, which also was great and rich, either ha­uing their partisans.Factions in the Senat at Car­thage. These pleaded vehemently, letting the Senat vnderstand on the one side, that Hannibal was bred vp in armes, and by that meanes did imitate his fathers vertues: the o­thers to hinder this resolution, feared least the hatred which Hannibal bare vnto the Romans, and whereof he made publicke profession, would ingage and draw their Commonweale into new troubles and calamities:The ambitious enuie all men. For although the Carthaginians were exceeding ambitious, and in that regard enemies to all mankind, yet did they feare the magnanimitie and constancie of the Romans, and their valour, which they had tried. Besides, the forepassed warres as well against them, as against others, yea, against their owne mercinarie souldiors, had wasted their treasure, vnfurnisht them of ships, and consumed their best captaines; so as it behoued them to liue many yeares in peace, before they vndertooke any difficult warre. But their miserie, and that of Italie, would haue the Barciniens preuaile; and so Hannibal was sent into Spaine to his brother in law Asdrubal, vnder whom he liued some three yeares: after whose decease, he was demaunded for head and Generall by the men of warre, and by their fauour obtained of the Senat and people of Carthage the gouernment of Spaine, being then about two and twentie yeares old.Hanniball made Gouernour of Spaine. There was not in any age a more remarkable man than this, as well for his great vertues as vices: for he was of a generous spirit for great attempts, and inuincible in all dangers:His disposition and vertues. bloudie combates were his delights, neither did he want judgement nor coun­sell: in the warre few men had better practised the knowledge how to obey, and how to com­maund, than he: he was neuer tyred with any toyle: he endured heat and cold indifferently: he gouerned his feeding as nature required: he hated rest, and slept onely when hee found himselfe idle, not vpon a soft and delicate bed, but most commonly vpon the ground, in a Corps de guard, among the souldiors: he was not curious in his habits, but delighted much in faire Armes and good horses; being alwayes the first in fight, and the last at a retreat. So many vertues had for companions in the same subject,His vices. a brutish crueltie, damnable infideli­tie, sacriledge, and contempt of all religion. When as he found himselfe possessed of these forces, he sought all meanes to breake the peace with the Romanes; propounding within himselfe, not onely to chase them out of Spaine, but also to assaile them in Italie within their owne strength, and in the very seat of their Empire. He began to make warre against the Ol­cades, [Page 37] a people beyond the riuer of Ebro, who were in good termes with the Carthaginians, but not their subjects, and tooke Althee their chiefe towne, and sackt it; the which did very much terrifie their neighbours. Then he quarrelled with the Vaccees; sometimes pretending a right, as being subject to the jurisdiction of Carthage; sometimes doing them injurie, or pretending that he had receiued some wrong from them, hee so prouoked them, as among many acts of hostilitie, after the taking of Hermandica and Arbocala, townes of the Vac­cees, and a great defeat which he gaue vnto the Carpetanians and the rest of the Olcades and Vaccees, and in the end the conquest of all those Prouinces, he came vnto that which he had propounded vnto himselfe; which was, to besiege Sagunt. The complaints of his excesse came daily to Rome; yet the Senat being busied with the warres of Gaule, and against the Il­lyrians, were not much mooued, vntill that the Saguntines seeing a siege comming before their towne, quickened the Romanes by their embassadours, letting them vnderstand, That if they made any account of Spaine, it was now high time to oppose themselues against the violence of Hannibal; A friend doth not often stirre for his friends harme, vnlesse himselfe be in­teressed. who hauing broken their treaties and accords in a thousand sorts, might be at that instant about their walls with an hundred and fiftie thousand fighting men. This did moue the Senat of Rome not to neglect their allies, and to apprehend the dangers which did threaten themselues, if they suffered the Carthaginians their enemies to prosper. Where­fore they sent two embassadors to Carthage, which were, Publius Valerius Flaccus, and Quin­tus Bebius Tamphtlus, with charge to passe to Hannibal, and to summon him to retyre, and to leaue their allies in peace; otherwise to let both him and the citie of Carthage vnderstand, that they would not endure the wrongs and injuries which had beene done them. But Sa­gunt was besieged vnder colour of some controuersies and quarrels which they had with their neighbours.Sagunt besieged. Hannibal being entred into their territorie, abandoned it to the spoyle of the souldiors, and then assayled the towne in three places. There was one part plainer and more accessible than the rest, where he intended to begin his batterie: but hauing made his approaches with great toyle and difficultie, the successe was not answerable to his designe: for there hee found a strong tower, and the wall raysed higher; besides, the place where there was most danger was manned with their most valiant souldiors; who at the first repul­sed their enemies with their arrowes: but in the end not contented to shoot from their tow­ers and defences, they made sallies, and came to fight with them hand to hand: in which skir­mishes there was no great aduantage on either side. Hannibal himselfe approching too ven­turously neere the wals, was wounded with a jaueline in the thigh, and ouerthrowne; the which did much amaze them that were about him,Hannibal woun­ded. so as they fled; and it did so trouble the rest, as they abandoned all their workes. Then had the Saguntines some leysure to breath, and the towne was for a time rather besieged than assaulted, whilest that Hannibal was vnder cure; yet they ceased not to make all sorts of engines to batter the towne: the which was done afterwards, and more violently than before, and in so many places, as the besieged were scarce able to make their defence: and there were three towers with their courtines betwixt them alreadie ruined, so as the towne was discouered, and seemed to lye open; which made both assaylants and defendants to run thither: where they did fight with such obstinacie, both parties being in battaile betwixt the ruines, not as at the entrance of a breach, but as in an open champaine, animated by two seuerall passions, the one hauing hope to vanquish,Hope & despaire breed like effects at this siege. and the other no hope of mercie in their enemies. In the end, the Carthaginians were for­ced to retyre; and soone after the Romane embassadours arriued in the rode of Saguntum: but Hannibal would not heare them, but let them vnderstand, That a man busied with so many affaires as he was, could not spend his time in words, and that he saw no great safetie for them, if they landed among so many souldiours, of diuers barbarous nations. Where­upon they passed into Africke, and hauing deliuered their charge vnto the Senat of Car­thage, and demaunded in vaine, That Hannibal (the author of the warre) should be deliue­red vnto them, after many protestations, they returned with bare words: For after much contention among the factions in the Councell of Carthage (whereas Hannibal had ma­nie kinsmen and friends) answere was made vnto the embassadours, That the warre had beene begun by the Saguntines, and that the Senat and people of Rome should not embrace their quarrell against the Carthaginians, with whom they had liued in peace and amitie for so many yeares.

[Page 38] Whilest the Romans were thus busied to resolue and to send embassadours,The simplicitie of the Romans. Hannibal pur­sues his siege, and presseth Sagunt by all means possible: He builds new engines, animates his souldiors, and promiseth them the spoile of a rich towne: the Saguntines rampar vp their breaches, and labour day and night: the batterie begins afresh, and they haue many assaults giuen, and with greater furie than before. In the end, being tyred with the multitude of assay­lants, who had fresh supplies continually, they could not keepe the Carthaginians from en­tring by their breaches, their walls being newly repaired with earth, after their accustomed manner, and therefore easie to pierce: so as they seized vpon an high place within the pre­cinct of the towne, whereas they planted many of their great crosse-bowes and artillerie after their manner, and casting a wall about it, they made as it were a citadell; against the which the Saguntines did presently make a trench, diuiding it from the rest of the towne, which was not yet taken. And as it happened diuers times, that the one getting the other, must needs retyre, the towne was reduced to a small compasse, and withall they had great want of victuals, and of all other necessaries, by reason of the long siege, Hannibal was then forced to march into Oretania and Carpetania, where there was some likelyhood of a tumult, for that those which he had sent to enroll souldiors, were retained by them of the countrey, by reason of the great rigour which they vsed. As his absence from the campe gaue some rest vnto the Saguntines, so his comming among those people caused peace, and reduced them to obedience. In the meane time Maharbal, sonne to Himilco, who had the charge to continue the siege, vsed such diligence, as there was no shew of Hannibals absence. To conclude, hee wrought so well, as at his returne he shewed him large breaches, sufficient to giue a generall assault, which were made on the side of the castle, the which the Carthaginians did win. The miserable Saguntines being thus prest, and out of all hope of succours,Friends a farre off are slow to succour. which could not come vnto them but from Rome, which was farre from them, Alco one of their citizens cast him­selfe from the rampar, and went to Hannibal, without the priuitie of the Senat, that he might moue him to some reasonable conditions: but Hannibal offered them their liues onely, and that they should depart the town with one robe only, and to go and dwell where they should be appointed: whereupon Alco durst no more returne vnto Sagunt, beseeching him to giue him leaue to remaine within the campe: then there was a Spanish souldior named Alorco, who offered himselfe to carrie these conditions vnto the Saguntines, and to persuade them to ac­cept thereof. But he preuailed as little as the other: for being heard in their Senat, they were so farre from yeelding in that manner, as by a common consent they resolued to bring all their gold, siluer, and other goods into the market place, where they set it on fire, and con­sumed it: and there were some so desperat, as they cast themselues into the fire, to be consu­med with their goods. In the meane time there was a great noise heard from a tower which fell suddainely, hauing beene long battered, the which gaue free entrie vnto the enemies: 5 a band of souldiors then being entred by that breach, they made a signe vnto the campe: whereupon Hannibal being vigilant to embrace all occasions,Sagunt taken by assault. marched thither with the whole bodie of the armie, and tooke the towne, hauing giuen charge to his souldiors, to kill all that had past the age of foureteene yeares: a cruell sentence, but he held it necessarie, seeing hee had to deale with such obstinat enemies, who being in fight, neuer yeelded but by death, and being shut vp within their towne, with their wiues and children, would rather burne them­selues in their houses, than yeeld. And although that many things were spoyled and consu­med by the fire, yet the bootie was great. Thus Sagunt fell into Hannibals hands, eight moneths after the beginning of the siege. And during this siege, his wife Himilce was deli­uered of a sonne called Aspar, which doubled his joy. Then did the Romanes resolue to pro­claime warre against Carthage,The Romans resolue to warre against the Carthaginians. mooued partly with the vnworthie calamitie of their friends and allies, and partly with the feare of their owne estate: the which happened 536 yeares af­ter the foundation of Rome, Pub. Cornelius Scipio and Titus Sempronius Longus being created Consuls.

Honnibal was so farre from any remorse to haue drawne these two Commonweales in­to armes, as contrariwise, when hee had brought backe his armie to new Carthage, and diuided the spoyle among his souldiors,Good fortune transports Han­nibal to ouer­great enterprises he began to make preparations to march into Italie; from whence he meant to chase the Romans, and to driue them (if it were possible) out of the world. Hauing therefore disposed of the affaires of that Prouince, and well fortified and [Page 39] manned the townes, he left the gouernment generall thereof to Asdrubal his brother, and ta­king his way by the Mediterranean shore to Empurias, he entred into Gaule, and came vnto the Alpes without any opposition of the Gaules,He marcheth to­wards Italy. although they were much prest thereunto by the Romans; leading an armie which consisted of Numidians, Africanes, Spaniards, some Gaules, and other nations, the which he entertained and supplied often with the same nati­ons, as well with the reuenues of the mynes of Spaine, as that which he tooke from the ene­mie, but most of all by his onely authoritie, and the reuerence of his name, so long as he con­tinued the warres in Italie, which was 16 yeares.

6 Whilest that the Consul P. Scipio attended him at the entrie of Italie,Cn. Scipio sent into Spaine. at the foot of the mountaines, Cn. Scipio his brother (sent by him into Spaine) parted from the mouth of Rosne, with a good number of gallies and other vessels, well manned with souldiours, and coasting along the Gaulish shore, he came to Empurias without any encounter: where hauing landed, he gouerned himselfe so discreetly in all his enterprises, and with so great humanitie towards the Spaniards, as in a short time hee reduced to the deuotion of the Romanes those which had beene drawne away either by force or feare,He wins the Spa­niards by mild­nesse. assured himselfe of the old allies, and got new, not onely among the people which lay neere vnto the sea, but also of those which dwelt farre into the countrey, and euen of the mountainers, although they were very rude and bar­barous; wherewith he encreased his armie, and had willingly from them, without any con­straint, victuals, and all other necessaries. Hanno appointed Gouernor of the countrey on this side Ebro, for the Carthaginians, went to field to make head against the Romans, whilest that Asdrubal, Gouernour generall of the Prouince, made hast to joyne with him with a great ar­mie.Hanno defeated by Scipio. But Scipio went speedily to charge Hanno, and did easily defeat him, where he slew 6000 of his souldiors, tooke 2000, forced his campe, and not onely spoyled the baggage of his ar­mie, but also that which Hannibal had appointed for Italie, wherewith Scipios souldiors were made rich. In the meane time Asdrubal arriues, hauing had no certaine intelligence of the de­feat of Hanno: whereof being aduertised, he marched towards the sea, where he found many Romane souldiours and mariners stragling after some spoyle; of whom he slew many, gi­uing them a worthie reward of their negligence; the which happened neere vnto Tarracone: yet hee made no long abode there, but presently repassed the riuer of Ebro. Scipio hauing rested his armie foure dayes, resolued to pursue him, but he would first assure himselfe of Tar­racone, the which was not very well furnished.The Spaniard inconstant. Asdrubal seeing him retire, aduanced againe, and did sollicite the Ilergetes to rebell, who notwithstanding had giuen hostages to the Ro­manes, making them to spoyle some of their allies countrey; whereupon Scipio went to field, and Asdrubal retyred. Scipio meaning to punish these Ilergetes, besieged Athanasia, their chiefe towne, and forced them to redeeme themselues with mony, and to giue new hostages: then he went to the Ausetanians, allied to the Carthaginians, neere vnto the riuer of Ebro, whom he besieged, and defeated the Lacetanes who came to succour them, whereof there re­mained 12000 vpon the place, and the rest were dispersed, returning disarmed to their houses. This siege continued 30 daies in the heart of winter, the snow being almost foure foot deepe, wherewith their engines of batterie were in a manner couered, the which did preserue them from the fire which was cast by the enemie. In the end, Amusite their captaine hauing abando­ned them, and being retyred to Asdrubal, the towne yeelded to Scipio, redeeming it selfe from spoyle for 20 talents, amounting to 12000 French crownes: from whence Scipio led his ar­mie backe to Tarracone.

The second yeare of the second Punicke warre, Asdrubal Generall of the Carthaginians resolued to charge the enemie wheresoeuer he should encounter him, either by sea or land, hauing armed out thirtie gallies which Hannibal had left him, and tenne others which he had; of all which, he gaue the charge to Himilcon, commaunding him to sayle along the coast in view of his land armie, with the which he parted from Carthagene, keeping still neere the shoare: whereof Scipio being aduertised, he resolued also to fight with Asdrubal, if any oppor­tunitie were offered. Yet hauing intelligence, that he had beene reenforced with some fresh troupes, he resolued not to hazard a battaile by land, but to set vpon them at sea. Hauing to that end embarked the flower of his armie, hee parted from Tarracone with fiue and thirtie ships of warre, and came within foure or fiue leagues of the mouth of the riuer of Ebro: there he was aduertised by two galliots of Marseilles, that the enemies gallies were at anchor in the [Page 38] [...] [Page 39] [...] [Page 40] mouth of the riuer, and their land armie camped neere vnto them: wherefore Scipio desiring to surprize them, commaunded his gallies to set forward, making great speed towards them. Spaine had then many watch-towers vpon the coast, set vpon high hils, for the safetie of pas­sengers against pyrats. The Roman army was discouered by them, and an alarme giuen to the Carthaginians, being sooner discouered by the army at land, than by the gallies. Asdrubal dis­patching many horsemen, gaue charge, That euery one should retire presently to his gally, and prepare to fight, for the enemie had bin discouered. Most of the souldiors and marriners were at land, dispersed here and there in the tents and villages, making good cheere with their com­panions, fearing nothing lesse than the comming of the Romans that day, who were hidden by the high clyffes which run into the sea, for that they could neither heare the beating of their oares, nor any noise of their fleet. And as all was full of disorder and tumult among the Car­thaginians, Asdrubal put his armie in battaile neere vnto his fleet, whilest the rest embarked, who ran without order or discipline, as if they had bin chased from the land, and would haue saued themselues in the sea. The confusion was so great, that hindering one another, the soul­diors could not vse their armes, nor the marriners launch out, nor doe their duties, so as they were forced to cut their cables; and doing all things in hast, they were defeated more by their owne disorder than by the Romanes; who aduancing, tooke two gallies at their first joyning, and sunke foure:The Carthagini­ans defeated at sea by Cn. Scipio. the rest of the Carthaginian fleet being dispersed, and not able to hold toge­ther, they ran aground willingly, so as the men saued themselues, and fled to their army which stood in battaile: who being spectators of this combat, saw their gallies pursued and taken, ca­rying all away that were not run on ground, or broken vpon the coast, so as the Romans drew 25 out with them to sea. This victorie did not only disarme the Carthaginians of their sea for­ces, but also made them forsake all that coast. Wherfore the Romans being landed at Onusta or Honosca, became masters thereof without any resistance, spoyling the countrey vnto the gates of new Carthage, whereas they burnt the suburbes. Returning from thence laden with spoyle to Longuntica (which at this present is Guardamar) they found-great store of a kind of broome, wherwith they did vse to make cables for ships, the which Asdrubal had caused to be gathered together, whereof they tooke what they pleased, and set fire on the rest. Then retur­ning to their ships, they passed into the Island of Ebusus or Iuisa, and battered the fort that was in it; from the which they were repulsed. So as after they had spoiled and burnt the coun­try, they embarked againe, and being ready to weigh anchor, embassadors came to them from the Islands of the Baleares, to demaund peace and friendship with the Romans.

Scipio being returned into Spaine, he gaue audience to the embassadours of all the people that dwell about the riuer Ebro, and not onely to them, but to others of farther regions, desi­ring to enter into league with the Romans. They hold, that he receiued hostages at that time of aboue 120 Townes or Communalties. Scipio being fortified by this means, and thinking he should be able from that time to keepe the field against his enemie, he led his armie towards Castulo, & the mountaines which are now called Puerto Muladar, Asdrubal being retired into Lusitania, towards the limits of our Portugal, vpō the Ocean, so as there was no great shew of any warres that Summer. But the turbulent spirits of the Spaniards prouided worke for Scipio: for a nobleman of the Ilergetes (the which is now a part of Catelogne) called Mardonius, Mardonius and the Ilergetes hold the Car­thaginian party. when as the Romans retired towards the sea, had sollicited many of the neighbor people to armes; and seeing the Romans otherwise busied, he went with his troupes, and spoiled the country of their allies: against whom, Scipio sent 3000 men, with the helpe of some of his friends, who de­feated these spoylers, flew many, tooke some, and made the rest glad to quit their armes. This made Asdrubal to leaue the sea coast, and to march vp into the countrey, to assure his confede­rats which dwelt on this side Ebro, and to succour them if need were: he came and lodged in the countrey of the Ilercaones, which are of the country of the Ilergetes: but a tumult arising, drew the war elsewhere:The Celtiberians take armes for the Romans. for the chiefe men among the Celtiberians, which make now a part of new Castille, and of Arragon beyond Ebro, being entred into alliance with the Romanes, and had giuen them hostages, hauing taken armes at Scipios persuasion, were entred into the Carthaginians territorie, spoyling, burning, and putting all to the sword: they tooke three townes from them, and in two encounters slew 15000 men, and tooke 4000, carrying away many of their enemies ensignes.Pub. Scipio Pro­consul in Spaine. At the same time P. Scipio arriued in Spaine, in qualitie of Pro-consul; in whose absence Cn. Scipio his brother had vntill that time gouerned the warres: [Page 41] for it was the Prouince which had fallen vnto him the yeare before, being Consull.

7 His gouernment then being continued, he arriued at Tarracone with 30 ships of warre, and many of burthen, carying 8000 souldiors, and great store of victuals and other prouision: where hauing landed his men, he went and joyned with his brother; and from that time the affaires were gouerned by two captaines well vnited, and agreeing in all things: who whilest that Hannibal was in action against the Celtiberians,The resolution of the two Sci­pioes of great consequence. resolued to goe directly to Sagunt; in which towne they knew, that all the hostages which Hannibal had drawne from the townes and people of Spaine, were kept with a small guard; which was the onely gage which the Carthaginians had to assure them of the Spaniards fidelitie, and the onely bond wherewith they tyed them: but one man brake it. He was a gentleman, who was then in garrison at Sa­gunt, a Spaniard by nation, called Acedux, who had alwaies before shewed himselfe very faith­full to the Carthaginians, but then (according to the manner of the Barbarians) he applied himselfe according to the time and euents. This man hauing a desire to follow the Romans partie,A notable tre­cherie of a Spa­niard. and imagining, that such as reuolt, are commonly esteemed but base and infamous creatures, if withall they doe not bring some notable commoditie to them that doe receiue them, he bethought himselfe of an occasion, whereby he might purchase the grace and fa­uour of the Romanes, by one of the greatest aduantages they might haue, if he could find meanes to deliuer all these hostages into their hands: but for that they were straitly guarded by men that were appointed by Bostares, Gouernour of the Prouince, there was great diffi­cultie in the execution of this enterprise. He came therefore vnto the Gouernour, who lay in campe without the towne, to defend the landing vpon the sea shoare, being somewhat farre off, and letting him vnderstand the dangerous estate of the Carthaginians affaires, after so many defeats, and how little faith and constancie there was in the townes and confederat people of Spaine, seeing so great a power of the Romanes neere them, fortified by so many people which had taken their partie, and the goodly succours which the Pro-consull Scipio had brought out of Italie, he aduised him to make the Spaniards more bound vnto the Car­thaginians by an honourable bountie, than they were by the gages which he had from them, in sending backe to euery Towne and Communaltie their hostages. And to the end hee should assure himselfe he would be readie to put in practise all that he should hold fit for the good of the Carthaginians,Treason of a Spaniard lea­ [...]ing to the stronger party. he offered to conduct these hostages to their parents, and to goe from towne to towne, confirming and encouraging his countreymen to be loyall to the Carthaginians, and that thereby they should find they had so good an opinion of them, as without any necessitie they had freely sent home their hostages vnto them. To conclude, he could so well persuade this Gouernour, as (notwithstanding it seemed hard vnto him at the first) he consented, appointing a conuenient time to send the hostages to their houses, vnder conduct of this traitour: who in the meane time found meanes to slip vnto the Ro­manes campe, and hauing met with some Spaniards in the armie, he caused them to bring him vnto the Pro-consull as secretly as might be; to whom he imparted this businesse as he had designed it; and a fit conclusion was taken betwixt them for this enterprise. This mer­chant being returned againe to Sagunt,The indiscretion and rashnesse of Bostares in yeel­ding the hostages deliuered him by his Generall. and hauing againe conferred with Bostares the Go­uernour vpon this restitution at the time appointed, the hostages were in the night sent out of the towne with a good guard, as it seemed: but they went not farre, before they fell in­to an ambush which the Romanes had layed for them, where they were all taken, and led vnto the campe. The same counsell which this Spaniard had giuen to Bostares, was by him propounded to the Romanes, who made good vse thereof, and restored the hostages to their parents and friends, and by that meanes made a wonderfull breach in the Carthagini­ans Estate in Spaine: For the people and townes did soone find what an aduantage it was to change their master; for that in stead of the Carthaginians commaund, which was impe­rious and proud, the Romanes were entred with bountie and mildnesse. So euery one com­mending the wisedome of this Acedux, sought some fit opportunitie to reuolt as he had done. And if Winter had not forced them to surcease, the effects had followed with out delay. Asdrubal finding himselfe too weake, was retyred into places of strength, farre from the Romanes. The two Scipioes hauing diuided their charges, Publius conducted the armie at sea, and Cneus that at land. Asdrubal durst not oppose himselfe neyther against the one nor the other, but hauing after many petitions and much solliciting obtained from [Page 42] the Carthaginians a supplie of foure thousand foot and fiue hundred horse: as soone as they arriued, he went to field with his armie, approched neer vnto the enemie, began to repayre his shippes, and to make a fleet for the defence of the coast and Islands. Being busie about these things, the reuolt of the sea captaines, which had beene defeated the Summer before, troubled him much. These after the battaile hauing beene much blamed by Asdrubal, did neuer afterwards shew themselues neither faithfull to their Generall, nor well affected to the affaires of the Carthaginians: so as by practises there were some townes yeelded to the Romanes in the countrey of the Carpesians, where the Realme of Toledo is at this day; and had taken one by force: so as all the warre was drawne by the Romanes into this coun­trey. Wherefore Asdrubal entring the countrey in hostile manner, affronted a captaine of this nation called Galbus, who lay in campe neere vnto the towne which had beene taken. Hauing sent some souldiours lightly armed to the enemies trenches, to draw them forth to skirmish, and some others against them that were gone to forrage, there was at one in­stant a great tumult in their campe, and slaughter and flying without it, so as manie sa­ued themselues within their fort: yet in the end they were so well assured, as they not one­ly defended their rampiers, but also sallied forth, and presented themselues in battaile a­gainst the Carthaginians, going resolutely to the charge, leaping and skipping after their accustomed manner, the which strucke terrour into the enemie, who retyred as hee could with credit. Asdrubal hauing recouered a hill flanked with a riuer, he brought his armie thither, thinking it needfull to fortifie himselfe there. So these two armies giuing feare for feare, there were some skirmishes among the souldiours on either side, whereas to speake truth, the Numidian horseman was not equall to the Spaniard, nor the Moores darts able to pierce their aduersaries targuets, who were as nimble and actiue as they, and had more force and courage. The Spaniards seeing that by running about the Carthaginians campe they could not draw them forth to battaile, and that it was not easie to force, they went to besiege a towne called Asena, whereas Asdrubal comming into that Prouince, had made his store-house for victuals and munition;Contempt of mi­litarie discipline followes a victo­rie. they tooke it by force, and spoyled all the coun­trey about it: but after it there was neither order, obedience, nor conduct among them, as it happeneth often after a good successe. Asdrubal seeing their disorder and negligence, thought good to embrace this occasion:Asdrubal takes aduantage of his enemies negli­gence. Wherefore hauing aduertised his souldiors there­of, he left his place of strength, and led his armie in good order against these Spaniards, who were dispersed here and there in disorder, and without ensignes. Being discouered by them that were in sentinell, euery one runs to armes, and so went to encounter the enemie disorde­red, without ensignes and without commaundement. Some began the fight, whilst that other arriued in troupes, the greater part being not yet come out of their campe: yet they encoun­tred them with such furie, as they stayed the first charge of the Carthaginians: but finding themselues few in number, faint, and not well vnited, against many in good order, they were soone broken, and forced to seeke their companions; and in the end they were so prest, being on a heape, and not able to vse their arms, as they were for the most part slaine; some making way by force through their enemies, saued themselues in the mountains and forrests neere ad­joyning. Their campe was in this amazement abandoned, and the whole Prouince was in one day reduced vnder the obedience of the Carthaginians.

During these actions, Asdrubal receiued commaundement from his superiours at Car­thage,The Councell of Carthage thin­king to get Ita­ly, neglect Spain. That hee should march with all speed with his armie into Italie: the which being knowne in Spaine, all the people in generall began to wauer, and to follow the Romane par­tie: whereof Asdrubal did aduertise the Senat, letting them vnderstand what prejudice this bruit did bring vnto the affaires of the Commonweale of Carthage; and that it was appa­rent, if he parted from thence, before he should passe the riuer of Ebro, all Spaine would fall into the Romanes power: for besides that he neither had men, nor a sufficient captaine to leaue in his place, to guard that Prouince, the Romane captaines were such, as they could hardly be resisted with equall numbers: wherefore he aduised them (if they had any care of Spaine) to send a good Commaunder and a strong Armie in the place of that which he should lead away: and although that all things should succeed as they desired, yet should they euer find some alteration among the people of that countrey. Asdrubal his letters did somewhat mooue the Senate, but for that they did more affect the affaires of Italie, [Page 43] they did not alter any thing that had beene decreed touching his departure with his army, but they onely sent Himilcon with some bands, and did arme some ships, which they held suffici­ent to keepe the people of Spaine in awe, as well vpon the sea coasts, as within the countrey. This captaine hauing past the sea with his forces, layed vp his ships in safetie, and fortified his campe, he tooke some of his best horsemen, and past through friends and enemies countries, vntill he came to Asdrubal, to whom he presented this decree of the Senat: and hauing con­ferred with him, and vnderstood the course that he was to hold in the warres of Spaine, he re­turned to his troups, hauing nothing that did assure him more from encounter vpon the way, than his diligence and speed: For before they could haue meanes to assemble their forces, they had news of his returne. Asdrubal seeing that he must needs go, he exacted great summes of money from all the townes and people that were vnder the Carthaginians jurisdiction, be­ing well aduertised, that he must purchase the passage and fauour of the Gaules with readie money, as Hannibal his brother had done. This done, hee tooke his way towards the riuer of Ebro.

The Romane captaines being aduertised of all these things,Asdrubal pre­pares to goe into Italie. and knowing of what conse­quence Asdrubals passage into Italie was, whereas Hannibal alone did much trouble the Ro­mane state, they imployed all their wits and meanes to stop him. Wherefore leauing all other affaires, they joyned all their forces in one body, and passing the riuer of Ebro, towards which Asdrubal approached, being doubtful whether they should fight, or by assailing some towne or countrey that was confederat to the Carthaginians, seeke onely to stay and diuert him. In the end they made a shew to besiege Ibera,The policie of the Roman and Carthaginian captaines. a towne which was rich and mightie in those quarters. But Asdrubal to diuert them, and to succour his allies, marched with his armie to­wards another towne, which a little before was yeelded to the Romanes: wherefore they left the towne, and went directly towards Asdrubal. The armies were some dayes within a league and a halfe one of another, before they came to battell, making light sallies one vpon another. In the end, as if it had beene agreed vpon, they put their armies in battell. The Ro­manes diuided their troupes into three;The order of the two armies. some of their footmen were placed before, and some behind their ensignes, and the horsemen vpon the wings on either side. Asdrubal set the Spa­nish footmen in the middest of the battell, the Carthaginians on the right hand, and the A­fricanes on the left. To the Carthaginians he added the Numidian horsemen that were mer­cinaries, and the other Africanes in the head of the battell; yet he put no Numidians on the left hand, but such as had beene accustomed to go with two horses together to the warre, and when they had wearied one,Agilitie of the Numidian horsemen. they leapt nimbly on the other, which was fresh, being armed, in the hottest of the fight: so actiue and nimble they were, and their horses so gentle and tracta­ble. Being thus in battell, the Generals had equall hopes, for there was no great difference betwixt their forces, either in number, or qualitie of men of warre: but among the souldiours it was not so. The Romanes were persuaded, that the safetie of Rome and Italie, and their re­turne to their houses, depended vpon this battell; and therefore they were resolued to van­quish or die. But the Spanrards (whereof the most part of the other armie did consist) had not that resolution, desiring rather to be beaten in Spaine, than to be drawne into Italie, con­querours: Wherefore at the first charge their battailons in the middest were forced, and tur­ned their backes, the fight was more furious on either hand, for the Romans were furiously charged on the one hand by the Carthaginians, and on the other by the Africanes, and in a manner compassed in, when as their whole armie (being joyned together in one bodie) easily repulsed them. So fighting in two parts, the Romans had the aduantage euery where, and were masters of the field. The slaughter was great, and had beene greater, if the Spaniards had not fled so fast in the beginning. The horsemen did not in a manner fight: for when as the Moors and Numidians did see their squadron in the middest wauer, they began to flie, leauing their wings naked, and leading the Elephants away with them. Asdrubal hauing continued vntill the end of the fight, retired out of the prease with some few that followed him. The ene­mies campe,A victorie of great conse­quence for the Romans. and all their baggage, was spoyled by the Romans. Through this victory, if there remained any people in Spaine which were not firme and constant to the Romans, they were now confirmed. On the other side▪ Asdrubal saw himselfe not onely out of hope to lead an armie into Italie, but also in some doubt where he should find a place of assurance in Spaine. These newes being aduertised to Rome by the two Scipioes, were verie pleasing; not so much [Page 44] for the victorie which they had obtained,Asdrubals pas­sage [...]nto Italy broken. as for that Asdrubals passage was broken. This Sum­mer was prosperous for the Romanes affaires, but they began to want victuall, and the sea­men, both mariners and souldiors, were in a manner naked. Wherfore the captaines gaue the Senat to vnderstand, That they must of necessitie prouide for these wants, else they should not be able to entertaine neither the armie, nor the countrey. For the which the Senat gaue or­der, by the good husbandrie of the magistrats, and the willingnesse of priuat persons; so as there were some found which did vndertake to furnish the armies in Spaine, of all things ne­cessarie for three yeares.

Asdrubal accompanied by Mago, and Amilcar sonne to Bomilcar, Illiturgis besie­ged by the Car­thaginians, re­lieued by the Romane. Carthaginian captaines, were come to besiege the towne of Illiturgis, which had reuolted from them to the Romane party: about the which they had made three camps, through which the Scipioes, two brethren, past by force, with great slaughter of their enemies, and put victuals into the towne, whereof they had great need: and hauing encouraged the inhabitants to carrie themselues valiantly in the defence of their walls, as they had seene them do which came to succour them, they resol­ued to make a furious sallie vpon the enemies fort, in Asdrubals quarter. Which Mago and A­milcar seeing, they ran thither with all their forces; so as that day the Carthaginians had 60000 men in battell without their campe,A memorable defeat by the Carthaginians. against 26000 Romans, or thereabouts; who notwith­standing had the victorie, without any doubt, hauing slaine more of their enemies than they were themselues, taken aboue 3000 prisoners, woon about 1000 good horses of seruice, cari­ed away 59 ensignes, slaine fiue Elephants in fight, made the enemies to raise their camps, and (which was their chiefe designe) freed the towne of Illiturgis from siege. The Carthagini­ans to recouer their honour,Spain fit to sup­plie armies. went to besiege Incibile, another place allied to the Romans, ha­uing filled their bands, and made new supplies in the country, who demaunded nothing more than warre, so as there were any hope of spoyle: for at that time Spaine did abound in youth. There they did rather increase their shame:Another victory by the Romans. for being assailed by the Romans, they lost 13000 souldiours more, which were slaine vpon the place, 3000 prisoners, two and fortie ensignes, and nine Elephants. Then in a manner all Spaine did adhere vnto the Romans, to whom this Summer was verie succesfull.

The yeare following, when as Q. Fabius, and M. Claudius Marcellus were Consuls, and the fift of the second Punicke warre, had diuers euents: for Asdrubal and Mago defeated great ar­mies of Spaniards, which were allied to the Romanes, before they had left their garrisons, where they had wintered, to passe the riuer of Ebro: and in a manner all that part of Spaine was recouered by the Carthaginians: but the diligence of P. Scipio, who marched thither with his armie, kept them play, and assured the countrey. Hee came first and camped at a place called Haut-Chasteau, or High-Castle, famous by the death of that great Amilcar; the which was strong,A castle where great Amilcar was slaine. and well furnished with come which they had brought thither a lit­tle before: but the countrey round about was full of enemies, and some of the Romans, which had taried scattered behind from the bodie of the armie, had beene charged by the enemies horse,Romans de­feated. who slew two thousand, and retired without any losse. This made P. Scipio retire into a countrey of more safetie: who fortified his campe, and entrenched it neere vn­to the mount of Victorie, whither Cn. Scipio his brother came with all his forces. And in a manner at the same instant, Asdrubal, sonne to Gisgo the third, a Carthaginian captaine, presented himselfe with a complet armie, in view of the Romanes, and planted his campe right against them, hauing a riuer betwixt them. There P. Scipio hauing taken certaine men at armes with him, parted secretly to discouer the enemie and the countrey: but being him­selfe discouered by the enemie, hee was in daunger to be defeated, had hee not recouered a little hill neere adjoyning, whereby hee had meanes to defend himselfe, and to make head against them that did enuiron him, vntill that his brother Cn. Scipio came to vngage him. The towne of Castulo which was so great a friend,Castulo yeelds to the Romanes. and so strictly allied vnto the Carthaginians, as Hannibal had taken a wife there, yeelded vnto the Romanes. The Carthaginians retur­ned vnto the siege of Illiturgis, in the which there was some garrison of Romane souldiours, hoping to take it by famine.Illiturgis relee­ued againe by the Romans. Cn. Scipio to releeue both the garrison and the inhabitants allied to the Romanes, marched that way, past valiantly betwixt two armies, and put a legion of re­solute souldiours into the towne, with great slaughter of the enemie.

The next day was no lesse happy vnto him, in a braue sally which he made, where there were [Page 45] slaine in these two encounters twelue thousand Carthaginians, and aboue ten thousand pri­soners, with fiue and thirtie ensignes, so as Illiturgis was againe freed from siege. The enemie being chased from thence, they went to besiege Bigerre, another towne allied to the Ro­manes; but they retired presently vpon the brute of Scipioes approach, and marched towards Munda, where they were also pursued by the Romanes. There they had a sharpe encounter, which continued foure houres; but as the Romanes had the victorie, they sounded a retreat, for that Cneus Scipio, Cn. Scipio hurt. Generall of the armie, had beene thrust into the thigh with a Numidian launce: which wound his souldiours that were fighting about him feared to haue been mor­tall; without which accident it is certaine the Carthaginians campe had been taken that day, and the victorie absolute.The Carthagini­ans put to rout. For the souldiours with their Elephants had been repulst vnto their palisadoes and rampars, vpon the which there were nine and thirtie slaine with darts: Yet they say, that in this fight the Romanes slew aboue twelue thousand of their enemies, and ca­ried away seuen and fiftie ensignes. The Carthaginians being defeated, retired to Auringe, where they were pursued and prest by the Romanes, during this amazement; and were againe charged before they had leasure to assure themselues, and to recouer their spirits, Scipio cau­sing himselfe to be carried through the battailons in a litter. Here he had an absolute victo­rie, but with much lesse slaughter by the halfe,Another defeat of them. for the enemies were reduced to a smaller num­ber. But as those people were prompt by nature, to renew the warres, and presently to sup­plie their armies, the countrey being fertile of souldiours, their bands were presently filled by the diligence of Mago, brother to Asdrubal, being sent to make new leuies, so as they durst hazard another battell: the euent whereof was like vnto the former, most of the Carthagini­an souldiours comming faintly to fight, as for a partie which had beene often beaten, and in few dayes.Carthaginians againe defeated. They lost in this conflict eight thousand men slaine vpon the place, and almost one thousand prisoners, with eight and fiftie ensignes, and great store of baggage, rings, chaines, and bracelets of gold: two great noblemen of Gaul were also slain, the one called Moenicaptus, the other Ciuismarus: eight Elephants were taken, and three slaine. Thus the Romans affairs prospered in Spaine, who in the end were ashamed, that the townes of Sagunt, for the which this war was begun, had continued fiue yeares in their enemies power. Wherefore they ap­proached neere vnto it, and by fauour of the battels which they had woon, did easily chase a­way the garrison that was within it: and hauing conquered the place, they called home all the old inhabitants,Sagunti [...] re­stored to their goods. and restored them to the possession of their goods, rased the Turditans towne, which had beene the motiue of their desolation, and sold the inhabitants thereof for slaues, to them that would giue most.

The Romanes to haue the better meanes,The Romans stir vp enemies to the Carthaginians in Africke. not onely to represse the injuries of the Cartha­ginians, but also to assaile and annoy them, did stirre vp new enemies against them neere vnto their towne, and drew vnto their alliance Siphax, king of a part of Numidia, who was alreadie somewhat discontented with them: so as they were forced to haue their recourse vnto Gala, a­nother king of the same nation,Gala father to Masinissa. and to incense him against Siphax. This Gala was father to Ma­sinissa, from whom the Romans did afterwards draw many good seruices: but at that time he shewed himselfe a bitter enemie to Siphax, and did often defeat him. In the meane time no­thing was done worthie of memorie in Spaine; only the Celtiberians which were in pay with the Carthaginians, were drawne away by the Romanes, whom they entertained with the same conditions: and these were the first mercinarie souldiors which the Romans vsed, to their great prejudice. Moreouer, the two Scipioes sent aboue 300 Spanish gentlemen into Italy, to solicite them of their nation, which were in Hannibals armie, to leaue his partie, and to joyne with the Romanes.

After this, there were two yeres spent before there was any memorable act done in Spain, both parties encountring one another rather by counsell and practises, than by open hostili­tie. The seuenth yeare of this warre, the Romane captaines assembled their forces, and it was resolued in counsell, That they must not content themselues onely to haue stopped Asdrubals passage into Italy, but they must seeke some meanes to end all the warre in Spaine: presu­ming they had forces ynow to doe it, hauing this Winter drawne vnto them, and armed 30 thousand Celtiberians. The enemies had three camps, two whereof were commaunded by Asdrubal sonne to Gisgo, & by Mago, being both joyned together. They were distant from the Romanes some fiue dayes journey: But that which Asdrubal, sonne to Amilcar, the auntient [Page 46] Gouernour of Spaine, led, was neerer, being lodged neere vnto Anitorge. The Generall of the Roman armie would first giue him a charge, hoping to defeat him easily. One onely difficultie troubled them, which was, how they should hinder the other two armies (after the defeat of this Asdrubal) from retiring into some place of aduantage among the mountaines and forests;The two Scipi­oes attempting too much, ruine themselues. and by that meanes should draw the warre in length. Hauing then a conceit to make warre against all Spaine at one instant, they resolued to diuide their forces betwixt them: so as P. Scipio with two third parts of the Romane armie, and the bands of their al­lies, should goe and affront Asdrubal sonne to Gisgo, and Mago; and that Cneus Scipio should lead the rest of the old legions and the allies against Asdrubal Barcin.

This being concluded, these two armies with their commaunders parted at one instant: the Celtiberians marching before, came and encamped neere vnto Anitorge; in view of the ene­mie, being seperated the one from the other by a riuer. There did Cneus Scipio stay with his troupes, and P. Scipio marched on where he was to make warre. But when as Asdrubal saw them diuided, and one farre from the other, being a wise and politique captaine, considering that the sinewes and strength of the Romane armie consisted of their allies, and in mercina­rie souldiours, and knowing the treacherous and inconstant disposition of the barbarous, euen of the Spaniards in those times, by the experience he had had in that long warre, hee resolued to trie all means possible, to corrupt the Celtiberians, which were vnder the Romans pay, be­ing 30000: the which he did happily effect, by the meanes of some of the same nation which were in his camp; who vsing the same language, and hauing means to haue secret conferences one with another,The mercinarie Spaniards make no account to a­bandon the Ro­mans at need. they concluded with the captaines of the Celtiberians, that for a good summe of money they should retire with their men, and returne to their houses. It seemed a matter of small moment to them: for they were not prest to turne their armes against the Ro­manes, but onely to retire, and not to make warre: besides, most of the souldiors were glad to rest, and desired to see their kinsfolkes and friends, goods and possessions. Wherefore it was easie for the captains who were corrupted, to persuade them to dislodge, being without feare to be staied, or forced by the Romanes, who were but few in number. Let this be an example to all estates that make warre,The force of an armie ought to be of naturall subiects, and not of strangers. neuer to fortifie themselues so with mercinaries and strangers, as they may prescribe them a law; but let their greatest strength be of their own nation. These Celtiberians then hauing taken vp their ensignes, and trust vp their baggage, departed sud­denly: neither could any intreatie nor prayers preuaile to stay them, pretending, that they had warre at home,The infidelitie of the Celtiberi­ans. and that they must goe and defend their owne houses. Cncus Scipio see­ing himselfe thus abandoned, and not able to preuent it neither by intreatie, force, nor any good counsell, finding himselfe too weake to hold the field against so great and mightie an armie, hauing also no meanes to joyne with his brother P. Scipio, he meant to trie if he might retire safely and with his honour, and flie all occasions to be forced to fight. But Asdrubal hol­ding him vanquished, would giue him no rest, but followed him continually at the heeles. The like terrour,Two Roman ar­mies in p [...]ey to the enemie. but a farre greater daunger, did at the same time presse P. Scipio, being freshly charged by a new and a valiant enemie: it was Masinissa a young prince, then allied to the Carthaginians; who afterwards was famous, and made mightie by the amitie of the Romanes.Masinissa a fierce aduersarie to the Romans. P. Scipio at his first arriuall found him in front, with goodly troupes of Numidian horsemen, comming continually day and night to his trenches, keeping his armie in perpetu­all alarme, so as not any one durst goe farre out, either for forrage or for wood, dislodging their sentinels oftentimes, and pursuing them euen within their gards, and to the ports and rampars of their campe, whereas the Romanes were shut vp as if they had beene besieged, and in want of all things, wherewith they were likely to be daily more and more opprest, if a Spaniard called Indibilis should come and joyne with the Carthaginians, where he was expe­cted with seuen thousand and fiue hundred Suessetanians. For so graue and wise a comman­der as P. Scipio was, he tooke a bad and rash resolution: for hauing left his campe to the gard of a few men, vnder the commaund of T. Fonteius his lieutenant, hee parted about midnight to goe and encounter Indibilis, and to fight with him: the which he did, and had easily de­feated him, if the Moores and Numidian horsemen (who had watched Scipioes departure) had not come and charged the Romanes in flanke, the which caused a great terrour among them; and besides they were charged in the rereward with all the Carthaginian armie, which had followed them. Being thus enuironed of all sides, doubtfull where they should make head, or [Page 47] which way they should force through the enemies, and escape that daunger, their Generall P. Scipio fighting and encouraging the souldiors, and going to all places where his presence was needfull,P. Scipio slaine, and the Romans defeated. was thrust through the right flanke with a launce, so as he fell downe dead from his horse. Then the enemies which had charged that troupe which was about Scipioes person, seeing him on the ground, went running throughout the armie, leaping for joy, and crying out that the enemies Generall was slaine. This accident gaue the Carthaginians an assured victo­rie, the Romans (being destitute of a head) thinking onely how they should flie and saue them­selues. It was easie for them to make way through the Numidians, who were but lightly ar­med, but to saue themselues by flying against so many horsemen, and footmen who did run in a manner as swift as horses, there was no meanes: so as the slaughter of the Romans was very great, both in the fight and in the flight, and hardly had any one escaped, if the darkenesse of the night had not fauoured them.The victorious Carthaginians pursue the victorie. The happinesse of so great and important a victorie of the Carthaginians, was no whit impaired by the negligence of their captaines, but making good vse thereof, presently after the conflict, hauing giuen some little rest vnto their souldiours, the armie dislodged, and marched with all speed to Asdrubal Barcins campe: being assured, that all their forces vnited together, they should easily vanquish the other Romane armie which re­mained, and by that meanes end the warre in Spaine. Being arriued, the joy was great a­mong the captaines and armies, rejoycing at this late obtained victorie, whereas so great and redoubted a captaine of the enemies had beene slaine, and all his armie defeated: wherefore being full of hope, they assured themselues to doe as much vnto the others.

There was yet no newes of this lamentable defeat in Cneus Scipioes armie,Heauinesse in Scipioes armie without any ap­parant cause. but there was seene a sad mournefull silence, as if they had had some secret presage, as it happens often to such as doe diuine of an approaching mischiefe. The Generall of the armie, besides that he found himselfe weakened, and abandoned by his allies, hearing that Asdrubals armie was so much renforced, was much perplexed, and could not by any conjecture and reason of warre imagine other, than what had happened: For what reason were it to thinke, that Asdrubal and Mago could passe without fighting, if his brother had beene liuing? Why did he not hinder them? or at the least coast them and follow them, to come and joyne with his brother, if he could not keep the enemies armies from joyning? Being in this perplexitie, see­ing no other meanes to assure himselfe, but by a retreat, hee parted secretly in the night, vn­knowne to the enemie, causing his armie to make a long march: But the day hauing discoue­red his departure, the Numidian horsemen were presently sent after; who ouertooke the Ro­mane armie toward the euening, and skirmishing, stayed them much, charging them some­times behind, and sometimes vpon the flankes. Scipio gaue order, that in fighting the armie should still aduance, fearing the enemies battailons of foot, which marched with all speed after their horse. In the end night approached, and yet the Romanes had not much aduan­ced, being forced to make often stands against the Moores, who did continually annoy them. Wherefore Cneus Scipio retired with all his troupes to a little hill, a place of small aduan­tage for them that were alreadie wauering; yet the seat was somewhat higher than the fields about it: There he lodgeth, and puts his horsemen and all his baggage in the middest, and his footmen make a circle round about, and so did easily resist the attempts of the Moores. But when as the Generals with their complete armies were joyned together, hee saw there was no meanes to make it good by fighting, if he did not intrench himselfe after the accusto­med manner: Wherefore he began to aduise by what meanes he might make his palisadoes; but he was come into a bare, barren, and drie soyle, where there was neither trees nor bushes, nor any ground fit to make flagges; neither could they digge into it, nor make it hard for the enemie to approach, for the ascent was easie on all sides: yet to make a kind of rampar, hee caused them to take their packe-saddles and dorsers, and to tye them together, wherewith the souldiours made as it were a wall of a conuenient height round about them, filling vp the pla­ces which wanted, with such baggage as they had.

The Carthaginians being arriued, put themselues in order to assaile this little hill, but discouering a new kind of rampar, and not accustomed, they were somewhat amazed: but their commaunders began to crie; How now souldiours, why stay you? why doe you not speedily pull vp and scatter this baggage which doth amaze you, and is not fit to stop women nor children? The enemie is ours, wee hold him fast, being hidden behind those [Page 48] cofers and burthens. Thus contemptuously did the captaines speake, yet was it not so easie to make a breach,The Roman ar­mie forced and defeated. nor to passe ouer them: but in the end they forced them, and the souldiors found passage in diuers places, so as they made a great slaughter of the Romans; yet the grea­test part of the vanquished saued themselues by flight, who finding woods and forests, a good number of them, after a long and tedious journey, came vnto P. Scipioes campe, commaun­ded by T. Fonteius, Cn. Scipio slaine. the lieutenant. Cn. Scipio was also slaine in this assault at the hill, as some say, in the beginning of the fight: others notwithstanding affirme, That he thought to saue himselfe with some few men, in a tower which was there adjoyning, the which being enuiro­ned by the enemie, and the gates set on fire, they were all taken and slaine. Behold two great captaines, brethren, dead, and their armies defeated, in lesse than a moneth, leauing the Ro­mans affaires in Spaine so troubled, and in such despaire, as they might well say, all was lost: But humane things are gouerned by a higher power, who doth not alwaies impart his decrees to our discourses.

9 There was a Roman knight called L. Martius, Anno 541 of Rome. sonne to Septimius, a yong man, actiue, hardie, and of greater courage than could be expected in a man of his condition, who assured the remainders of the legions, and the faithfull allies of the Roman state, and reuiued Spaine from their sorrow and mourning,The courage of L. Martius re­ [...]i [...]es the Ro­mans from de­spaire. for the losse of two such great personages, and of so ma­ny good men, and from the calamitie and daunger they were then in: and in the end recoue­red the honour and fame of the Romanes, which was growne contemptible. Hee had with his generous disposition learned good discipline vnder Cn. Scipio. And hauing gathered many of them together which had fled from the defeat, and drawne a good number of souldiours out of the garrisons and vnited townes, he made a little armie, and came and joyned with T. Fonteius, P. Scipioes lieutenant. This armie being on this side Ebro, in a campe well fortified, it was resolued to chuse a head that should commaund ouer all, and that they should take their voyces therein, as the bands should enter into gard one after another. L. Martius be­ing but a knight, was so gracious, as all in generall gaue him their voyces, and he was chosen Captaine Generall of the Roman armie.L. Martius cho­sen Generall of the Roman army After which time hee was verie carefull to fortifie himselfe in places of strength, and to prouide store of victuals and munition, finding the souldiours readie to execute whatsoeuer hee commaunded. But it was not long before there came newes vnto the campe, That Asdrubal the sonne of Gisgo marched towards them, to make an end of the warre, and to free the countrey of those few Romanes which were yet remaining in Spaine. Then the souldiours remembring their old captaines, began to faint at their new captaines commands; so as the centeniers and other officers and bands, yea and L. Martius himselfe had much adoe to reuiue them, reproaching them, that they be­haued themselues faintly like women, making fruitlesse lamentations, which was not the meanes to reuenge the deathes of their Generals, nor to recouer their lost honour. The ene­mies were not far off, and it was time to preach to them; when as suddenly there was seene a strange alteration throughout all the Romane campe: Their mourning was conuerted into furie, euerie man fell to his armes, and they cried out, that they should bring them to the ene­mie. They sally forth of their gates,The Carthagini­ans proud of their great vi­ctorie, are de­feated by the Romans. and with great courage receiue the Carthaginians, who came disordred, and in a manner contemning them whom they had alreadie vanquished. This resolution of the Romanes amazed them, wondering at the number and order of these men, who had gathered them together, or what captains they had remaining after the death of the two Scipioes. But in the end they were forced to flie, and were hotly pursued that day, vntill that Martius thinking the souldious did abandon themselues too much,L. Martius re­straines the fu­rie of the Ro­mans. caused a retreat to be sounded, and himselfe standing before their ensignes, stayed their rashnesse, which might haue drawne them into some disorder, and so (desiring nothing but reuenge and bloud) hee brought them backe to the campe. The Carthaginians being thus roughly repulsed from the Romane trenches, seeing they were no more pursued, they presumed it had beene feare, and therefore they retired softly, and without care. Being in their campe they vsed the like negligence in their gards and watches: for notwithstanding they did see the enemie neere them, yet they did esteeme them to be but the reliques of two armies which they had beaten and defeated some few dayes before.

Martius being aduertised by good spies, what was done in the enemies campe, hee vnder­tooke rather a rash than hardy attempt, but the issue was fortunat. Knowing that he had the ar­mie [Page 49] of Asdrubal Gisgo now in front, the which was followed by the two others, hee thought it lesse daunger to aduenture to fight with that alone, than to attend and bee beaten by all three together: If he vanquished, he should restore their affaires, which were almost ruined, and if he were beaten, at the least he should haue the honour to bee the assailant. Hauing therefore assembled the captaines, centeniers, and chiefe souldiors, he deliuered vnto them the pitifull estate of their affaires, and how that for the honour and reputation of their coun­trey, for the loue they bare to the deceased Scipioes, and for the interest of their owne liues, they were to carrie themselues valiantly and couragiously against their cruell enemies which pursued them; whose negligence and contempt did inuite them to goe and assaile them, and did promise them a certaine and easie victorie, especially if they made hast before all their for­ces were vnited: the which afterwards they could not withstand, concluding, that there was no other meanes to make warre, than to issue forth the next night, and to goe and force the Carthaginians in their trenches. He found the souldiours well disposed at this motion, where­fore he commaunded them to prepare their armes, and to be readie to depart when he should commaund.The ouer great boldnesse of Martius, which proued suc [...]esfull by the enemies negligence. The Carthaginian armie made two lodgings, about a league and a halfe one from the other: betwixt both was a great valley couered with trees. In this forest was an am­bush of Romane souldiours layed, with some horsemen, to stop the passage for such as would runne from one campe to the other: the rest of the Romane armie was led with great silence against the enemies, where finding neither gards nor sentinels, nor any thing else to stop their passage, they entred farre, as if they had beene within their owne campe: then suddenly the trumpets sounded, and making great cries they fell to the execution, killing all they met, without mercie, and setting fire of the enemies lodgings and tents; but aboue all they seised vpon the ports and issues, that not any one might escape. The amazement, fire, cries, and slaughter, did so trouble the Carthaginians, as they could not heare one another, nor giue any order for any thing. They found themselues among troupes of armed men: thinking to flie, they were slaine at the gates, if any leapt ouer the rampars, they fell into the ambushes, so as the enemies which were in the other lodging, could haue no intelligence of this surprise, but by death, which was presented vnto them at the Romanes comming, who with great celeritie (boyling with furie, and implacable desire of reuenge) came thither, and there found greater negligence than they had done in the first campe: For these were farther retyred from the enemie, and vpon the breake of day many were gone forth for forrage and wood. There were armes at the ports, but no souldiours, some here, some there, some a­sleepe, and some walking in their gownes in the trenches. The Romans fell vpon these care­lesse people, hauing no resistance made at the ports: they entred within the campe, and in the middest thereof began a bloudie fight, the enemies running from all parts at the first crie and tumult, striuing vertuously to repulse the Romanes. Which conflict was likely to continue long: but when as the Carthaginians discouered their enemies targuets all pol­luted with bloud, they fainted, hauing thereby an assured argument of the defeat of their companions.A great defeat of the Carthagi­nians. This feare put them in rout, and to a miserable flight, euerie one sauing him­selfe where he found any way open to escape, and abandoning the campe. So in one night and the day following, there were two campes taken, vnder the conduct of L. Martius. The number of the dead, according vnto some, was seuen and thirtie thousand, and aboue eight hundred prisoners. The spoyle was verie rich, and among other things, there was found a great targuet of siluer, weighing one hundred thirtie and eight pounds, on the which was grauen the picture of Asdrubal Barca, A targuet of sil­uer a monument of Martius vi­ctorie. the which was afterwards set in the temple of the Capitoll, and it was called Martius targuet, remaining for a memorie of the victorie which hee had gotten against the Carthaginians, where it continued vntill the Capitoll was burnt.

This action restored the Romans power and authoritie in Spaine, and was the cause that some time was spent without any enterprises of either side, either fearing to hazard any thing after so great losses.

10 These diuers and contrarie accidents teach vs how little wee should relye vpon the euents of war, and that it is not in the power of man to maintaine himselfe one day: where­fore if modestie be necessarie in humane things, yea in greatest prosperitie, and to beare a re­spect [Page 50] to the diuine power, presuming little vpon our owne judgements, wisedomes, happi­nesse, and fame, it is chiefely in the conduct of warre. There wanted no qualities in the two Scipioes, to make them great and famous captaines; yet they tooke bad counsell, both to­gether, and diuided and ruined themselues by their ouerweening, and by too much attemp­ting at one instant. The Carthaginians by the victorie which they had gotten, had made the way open to ouerrun all Spaine at their pleasures: and moreouer, considering the cruell warres which the Romanes their aduersaries endured with much difficultie in Italie; they had now time, and a wished opportunitie to ruine them quite, drawing all their forces into those parts: but being growne insolent and carelesse in this great prosperitie, they are suddenly stai­ed by a souldiour of no fame, without qualitie, and almost vnknowne, whom the diuine pro­uidence would make an instrument to shew that it is he,God onely doth raise and ruine estates. and not the wisedome of man that doth raise or ruine estates. The griefe which they had conceiued at Rome, for the defeat of their armies, and the death of such excellent captaines as the two Scipioes, was somewhat appeased by the successe of Martius enterprises: and consulting in the Senat touching that which hee had written, there was not any one but did allow his actions to be high and gene­rous, and did much commend him: But as for the title which he gaue himselfe, of Propre­tor, or Lieutenant to the people of Rome, the gouernement being vacant, that seemed vn­to them all arrogant and ambitious, yea a verie bad example, and of worse consequence: For that (said they) if they should suffer the souldiors to chuse captaines at their pleasure, it would blemish and ouerthrow the authoritie of the Senat,A comm [...]ndable seueritie in the an [...]ient Romans. of the people, the lawes and magistrats. Some were of opinion, they should treat of that in Councell before all other things: but it was thought fitter to deferre it for a time, and to send backe those knights which had brought these letters to Rome, with a good answer. Wherefore they did write vnto L. Martius (with­out giuing him any other title) touching the prouision of victuals, apparell, and other things belonging vnto the armie.

These men being dispatched, it was first of all resolued by the Consuls and Tribunes, to propound vnto the people, to name some one to be sent into Spaine, to commaund the army whereof Cn. Scipio had had the charge.Anno Rome 542 C. Nero sent Propretor into Spaine. But this was deferred vpon some new accident, so as by way of prouision they sent C. Nero with twelue thousand foot, halfe chosen out of the Ro­mane legions, and halfe of their allyes, three hundred Romane knights, and eight hundred of the confederat townes. With which forces he past into Spaine, and landed at Tarracone, whereas he presently went to field, hauing armed all the mariners, to make the greater shew. To him, as Propretor, and lieutenant generall for the people of Rome, T. Fonteius, and L. Martius, deliuered vp the legions, and all the forces which they had preserued, and happily imployed after the defeat of the two Scipioes. With this armie Nero went to seeke out the e­nemie, who was camped at a place called Pierres noires, or Blacke stones, in the country of the Oretanes, betwixt the townes of Illiturgis and Mentisa. Nero had seized vpon the straits, and so prest the enemie, as Asdrubal for feare of a worse accident, sent a herauld vnto him, to offer and promise him, That if he would suffer him to goe out of those passages, hee would breake vp his campe, and send his souldiours out of Spaine. This was pleasing vnto Nero, wherefore a day was appointed to conferre and capitulate betwixt the heads of the armies. At their first meeting there was propounded by the Romanes, That the Carthaginians should deliuer vp their citadels, and at a certaine day draw their garrisons out of the townes which they held, and that they should haue libertie to carrie away all that was theirs. All this being granted them,Asdrubal a poli­tique captaine, circumuents Nero. Asdrubal gaue order in the night (whilest that the Romanes were fed with a hope of peace) that they should begin to packe away their baggage secretly, and to draw away that which was most troublesome in the army, which way they could: yet he pro­uided, that few men should goe out of the campe, least the enemie should discouer his fraud. The day following they entred againe into conference, where as many friuolous things were propounded, to passe away the day: and at night the Carthaginians did as they had done before, spending many dayes after this manner, in disputes and difficulties, and still discharging that at night which hindered them most. After that they had drawne all their footmen and baggage into a place of safetie, there remained nothing but the horsemen and Elephants.

[Page 51] Asdrubal, Asdrubal makes no conscience how to deceiue his enemies. as his feare decreased, so did his faith diminish, hauing no care to keepe that which hee had promised: Yet they were to meet againe one morning, when as a thicke foggie mist had couered all the earth. Asdrubal making vse of this occasion, sent to intreat Nero to ex­cuse him, if he came not to the parley, for that it was a festiuall day with the Carthaginians, and therefore he could not with a good conscience treat of any businesse. This was well ta­ken by Nero. In the meane time Asdrubal through the fauour of this mist, escaped with all his horses and Elephants. The third part of the day being spent, the Sunne dispersed this fog, and then the Romanes found that they were deceiued, and that the enemie was escaped: whereat Claudius being much grieued, began to follow him, but hee could not force him to fight, there were onely some light skirmishes made betwixt the forerunners of the Romane armie, and the Carthaginians rereward.

All things standing in this estate, Spaine remained quiet: such as had forsooke the Romans after the aboue mentioned defeats, returned not; and such as had continued constant vntill that time, reuolted not. At Rome the Senat and people were troubled to send a commaun­der into Spaine, that were of such authoritie and vertue, as he might deserue to succeed the two brethren, the Scipioes. Euerie one was carefull to whom he should giue his voice: and as there was much dissenting in such a choice, in the end it was decreed, that the election of him which should be sent Gouernour into Spaine, should be made in a generall assemblie of the people, by the voyces and suffrages of the companies: For the which a day was appointed by 12 the Consuls.All affect honors but euery man slies the danger. They supposed this charge would haue beene affected and sued for, like vnto o­ther dignities; and that some would present themselues, and desire to be admitted: but no man appeared: for euery one feared to go thither, where as two of the greatest souldiours that were among the Romane captaines, had beene defeated and slaine in lesse than thirtie daies, one after another.

The people being assembled at the appointed day, in great care and amazement, to see the magistrats and prime men of Rome gazing one on another, without a word speaking, euerie one apprehended the ruine of their commonweale:Great confidence of P. Corn. Scipio son to P. Scipio slain in Spaine. but P. Corn. Scipio, sonne to him that had beene slaine in Spaine, shewes himselfe in a place somewhat higher than the rest, and declares openly, That hee demaunded the gouernement. Euerie one then began to crie out for joy, and to shew him some signes of fauour, as presaging vnto him a happie and prospe­rous successe in that charge. The voyces being gathered, he was by a general consent chosen head and Gouernour of Spaine for the people of Rome. Scipio was not then foure and twen­tie yeares old:People inconsi­derat do often repent. wherefore after this election made, the people repented them to haue been so inconsiderat, as to giue so great a charge to so young a man, euerie one calling to mind the late misfortune of that house, and euen with horrour of his name, who was so neere allyed to two such desolate families; who went to make warre in a place where both his father and vncle had beene slaine, and euen among their sepulchres. But Scipio finding this suddaine alteration, spake vnto them, of his age, and of the charge hee vndertooke, with so great an assurance, as hee purchased a good opinion with the people, and filled them all with great hope.

If there were euer any one among the Romans indued with singular vertue,Scipio vertuous and hypocriticall and that could put it in practise, and make good vse of it, from his youth, it was this Scipio, so as wee may rightly say, that he had both the apparence and effect of vertue. He was I say, both vertuous and an hypocrite both together, making vse especially of religion to win the peoples fauour, and the obedience of such as he commanded; an vsuall policie which hath beene practised by the great and wise men of this world in all ages,The antients v­sed religion to keepe the people in awe. saying, that they must keep the people in awe with the terrour of religion: the which were commendable, if they would adde vnto it, the ti­tle of True: and that in stead of making men religious, they would not draw them to superstiti­on. Scipio did neuer begin day, but by prayers vnto his gods, faining often, that hee had visions in the night, and receiued diuine commandements; and finally, that he had secret conference with the gods, which in his time they did worship at Rome. Such was the peoples opinion of his vertue, as they held him to be somewhat more than an ordinarie man, and they told a fable of his birth,A fable of Sci­pioes birth. somewhat like vnto that of Alexander the great: which was, That he had been in­gendred of some god, who in the forme of a great serpent came & lay with his mother, and that oftentimes such as entred into her chamber, had seen this apparition, but it vanished presently.

[Page 52] He maintained himself in this reputation with such art, as neuer any one complained that he had been deceiued by his reuelations or myracles, finding means to breed an impression ther­of in the hearts of men, without affirming or denying them directly. The people of Rome re­ferred to the direction of a man thus qualified, and so young, one of the most important go­uernments, and of the greatest charge in their whole estate. At the same time when as he la­boured for the gouernment of Spaine, Marcellus returned out of Sicile, where hee had taken Siracuse, by the treason of Meric, a Spanish captaine, entertained by the Siracusans. There were appointed for Scipio (besides the forces that were in Spaine) 10000 foot, and 1000 horse; and there was giuen him for his lieutenant and assistant,M. Iulius Sylla­nus lieutenant and counsellor to Scipio. M. Iunius Sillanus: who parting out of the mouth of Tiber with 30 galleasses, hauing fiue oares on a side, and coasting along the shore of Tuscane and Gaule, they arriued at Empurias, at the foot of the Pyrenee hills, a Gre­cian towne, founded by the Phocians, where Scipio landed with his armie, the which hee led a­long the shore to Tarracone, causing his fleet to follow close by the shore.

Being at Tarracone, he held a generall assemblie of all the confederat townes of Spaine, who sent their deputies and embassadours vpon the brute of his arriuall. He laied his ships on ground, according to the auntient manner, and sent backe foure Marsilian galliots, which had come to doe him honour. There hee heard the embassadours of the countrey, which wauered, and were amazed at the accidents past. And although he had a great presumption of himselfe,Malestie ioyned with modestie in P. Scipio. and of his vertue, yet did hee neuer let slip any proud speech, or that was ill taken by any: but carried such a majestie in his words, as they were forced to beleeue what he said.

Parting from Tarracone, he went to visit the confederat townes, and came vnto the place where as the old armie did winter; whereas he did commend the souldiours, that after two such great defeats, they had vertuously defended and preserued the prouince, not suffering the enemie to enjoy the fruits of his victorie, but hauing chased him out of the countrey on this side Ebro, had assured, and faithfully defended the friends and confederats of the peo­ple of Rome.Scipio honors L. Martius, yet without dispa­raging himselfe. Hee did greatly honour L. Martius, yet so, as he would haue the world know, that his owne glorie could not be ecclipsed by another mans. Syllanus tooke the place of C. Nero: and lodgings were appointed for the new come souldiours to winter in. Scipio hauing thus disposed of all things, and visited all places where his presence was required, hee returned to Tarracone. His fame was no lesse among his enemies than friends, and euen now their hearts were seised with some feare, but could giue no reason for it: which was as a presage vn­to them of that which should happen. The Carthaginian armies were retired into diuers places to winter. Asdrubal sonne to Gisgo, was lodged farre off, about Calis, neere the Oce­an, Mago more into the land, aboue Castulo, in the straits and neere forests: and Asdrubal son to Amilcar, about Sagunt, somewhat neere vnto the riuer of Ebro.

13 In the beginning of the Spring, P. Scipio hauing put his gallies to sea, and called the succours of his allies to Tarracone, he commanded that both the ships of war and of burthen, should bend their course towards the mouth of Ebro: thither the legions were appointed also to come from the places where they had wintered. Then he himselfe parting, with 5000 of the associates, from Tarracone, came vnto the armie. There he spake much in commenda­tion of the old souldiours, which had beene in so many vnfortunate encounters, incouraging them to better hopes vnder his commaund, not forgetting his fained reuelations. Hee layed before their eyes the diuision of the Carthaginian captaines, who kept their forces dispersed: which was the cause of the defeat and ruine of his father and vncle. Finding the armie willing and resolute, he left M. Syllanus to gard that which lies on this side Ebro, with 3000 foot, and 300 horse, and he himself past on with the rest of the armie, the which consisted of 25000 foot and 2500 horse. Some were of opinion, that the enemies armies lying farre distant one from another, he should goe and fight with the neerest: But he thought otherwise; for he doub­ted, that whilest he should spend his time to draw the enemie to fight, and to seeke his ad­uantages, the others would make hast to come into those parts: so all three armies being vni­ted together, he should not be able to make head against them. Wherefore he resolued to go and suddenly to besiege new Carthage, a towne verie rich of it selfe, and abounding with all sorts of prouision,Scipio begins his charge with a great enterprise of victuals, armes, and treasure, which the enemies had laid vp there for the warre, and in the which the hostages of all the good townes and prouinces of Spaine were [Page 53] kept: situated in a commodious place to passe into Africke, hauing an ample port, and capa­ble of any great fleet,Silence required in a great cap­taine. and the best of all that coast of Spaine. Yet hee did not acquaint any man liuing with this his resolution, but onely C. Lelius, who commanded the armie at sea, ha­uing giuen him charge so to direct his course,C. Lelius Gene­rall of the gallies as at one instant they should come before the towne with both armies. The seuenth day of their departure from the riuer of Ebro, Car­thage was besieged both by sea and land. The campe was planted on the North side, and fortified with a palisadoe. The situation of Carthage was after this manner.The situation of new Carthage. In the middest of that coast of Spaine, is a gulfe, which runnes fiue hundred paces into the land, and hath not much lesse in breadth. The mouth of this gulfe is couered with a little island, which de­fends it from all winds, except that which carries the name of Africke, of the place from whence it comes, which we may cal Southeast, or Libecchio, according to the Italians. With­in this gulfe there riseth a peece of ground, almost like an island, on the which the towne is built: Which peece of ground is enuironed with the sea on the East and South sides, hauing towards the West a marish, which doth couer some part of the North, the which is not verie safe, being in some places deeper than in others, as the sea doth rise and fall. A little hill joynes the towne vnto the firme land, being some two hundred and fiftie paces. This part was left open by Scipio, without any fortification: whether hee did it to braue the enemie, or leaue this passage open to make continuall courses, and attempts vpon the towne, and then to haue his retreat easie. Hee also planted his gallies within the port, seeming as if hee would also besiege the towne by sea: giuing charge vnto the captaines to be watchfull, and to stand vpon their gards: For in the beginning of a siege, he that is shut vp doth most com­monly make greatest sallies.

Hauing therefore prouided for all things necessarie for a siege, he then resolued to impart his designe vnto his souldiors, and to shew them the reasons which had mooued him to begin warre by a siege: and to persuade them, that it was easie to take it suddenly, whilest their forces were farre off. Hee shewed them, That new Carthage was of such consequence, as the taking thereof would conquer all Spaine for the Romanes: by reason of the hostages of the princes, potentates, townes, and commonweales of the countrey, which were kept there: the which being taken, the enemie, who had not any but mercinarie souldiours (which must alwayes haue money) would soone bee abandoned by their men: for that the money appointed for their pay, was within the towne, in the which the Carthaginians made their treasurie, the magazine for their victuals, and for all sorts of munitions and en­gines: All which things, said hee, the towne being taken, will come into our hands, and the enemie shall bee left naked of all meanes to make warre. We on the other side, shall be fur­nished of all things necessarie, but aboue all, wee shall get a good towne, and commodious port, to receiue all things whereof wee shall haue need, as well by sea as land: yea we shall haue an easie passaage into Africke, if it be needfull to go thither.

He made so liuely an impression of the opportunitie, profit, and easinesse of the siege and enterprise, as they began to crie, that he should lead them to the assault, the which he did pre­sently. Mago commanded within the towne, who seeing that they prepared to come vnto an assault, gaue order on his side to withstand their furie. He assured himselfe of the castle for his retreat, putting fiue hundred souldiours into it, and as many vpon a high ground within the towne, on the East side. He appointed two thousand souldiours to make a furioussally vpon the enemie, and the rest of the multitude were put in conuenient places to succor where need should require. These Carthaginians opening their gates, issued out vpon the Romans, comming to the assault, and staied them, wheras the fight was long doubtfull: but the Ro­manes hauing still fresh supplies, the Carthaginians were in the end forced to turne their backes, in such feare and disorder, as, if they had beene eagerly pursued, they had entred pell mell with them into the towne, in the which the tumult and confusion was no lesse, than in the fight: for many of them left their gards for feare, as if the towne had beene taken. Scipio obseruing what was done, and watching all occasions from an eminent place, seeing the walles abandoned in some places, hee put all his armie in battaile, commaunding them to march towards the towne with their ladders. He himselfe being couered with some soldi­ours that were well armed, goes among the troupes, to encourage them, and to be an eye wit­nesse of the valor & cowardise of euery one. The wals were again furnisht with soldiors by the [Page 54] diligence of Mago, wherefore the souldiours comming to the assault, were entertained with a shower of darts and arrowes which fell vpon them, more vpon their flanks than in afront: besides the wall towards the firme land, was very high. Notwithstanding the souldiors ani­mated by their Generals presence, and with a desire to vanquish and spoile, planted their lad­ders of all sides, and mounted couragiously, striuing who should get first to the top of the wal. But many of the ladders, being ouer-laden with the multitude, brake, and they fell into the ditch; besides most of them were too short. They gaue an assault in like manner towards the sea, but with more amazement than danger, and of euerie side there was more brute than ef­fect: so as for this time the Romans were repulst, which gaue courage vnto the enemies, and hope they should be able to keepe the towne; persuading themselues, they were out of scala­doe, and that their armies should haue time ynough to come and succour them. But Scipio, who was resolued to take this towne, did not suffer them to continue long in this errour: for as soone as he had caused them which had giuen the first assault to retire, being wearie and wounded, he made other fresh souldiours to aduance against the towne, to renew the assault, taking the ladders from their companions. He had beene aduertised by fishermen of Tarra­cone, which were in his campe, and who had waded through the marishes on the West side of the towne, That there was no great store of water along the wall, when the tyde was spent, and that it was easie to goe to the foot of it: and withall had obserued, that on that side the wall was but low, ill rampared and fortified, and without gards, for that they assured them­selues of this stil water. Wherfore vpon the ebbe, and a strong Northerly wind, which draue out the water, it was easie to wade through: he embraced this occasion, and sent some troups thither, shewing them the easie accesse; saying, That the gods did inuite them, and assure their passage, causing the sea to retire, whereby they might take the towne, as it fell out: For finding no man to resist them, whilest that all were busie in other places, where as they feared most, they entred into the towne, and marched directly towards the port where as the com­bate was hottest, where they were sooner felt than heard; and the enemies were charged both in front and in flanke, before they knew that the towne was taken: so as the number increa­sing still, one helping another ouer the wall, euerie one sought to saue himselfe, and not any one made any more resistance.New Carthage taken. Wherefore the gate being broken, and an entrie made for the armie, they entred in battaile into the towne, with their commaunders and ensignes, and sei­sed vpon the chiefe places. Those which had past ouer the walls, made a great slaughter of the inhabitants. The Carthaginian souldiours retired themselues into two forts, the one was to that high peece of ground aboue mentioned, on the East part of the towne, garded by fiue hundred souldiours, and the other was the castle, which Mago had reserued. The mount be­ing assailed by a part of the Romane armie, was presently forced: Soone after Mago seeing there was no more hope, hauing made some resistance, yeelded the fort also, and all that was within it. Vntill that time the Romanes slew all they met aboue fourteene yeares of age: but the castle being yeelded, they were commaunded to cease from killing: then they began to fall to the spoile,The number of the prisoners ta­ken at Carthage which was verie great, where they had ten thousand prisoners, all men of free condition. Those that were naturall citizens were set free, and the towne restored vnto them, and all that was found belonging vnto them. There were also found about two thou­sand artisans, whom Scipio adjudged to the publique of the people of Rome, giuing them hope of speedie libertie, if they carried themselues like good men, and did imploy them­selues valiantly in the warres. With the rest of the youth which was able and strong, he furni­shed his gallies: and encreased his armie at sea, with eight gallies taken from the enemie. Be­sides this multitude, there was found within the fort the Spanish hostages, whom hee treated as honourably as if they had beene allyed to the people of Rome.Scipio intreats the Spanish ho­stages kindly. Thus this wise Generall by his mildnesse and humanitie woon the hearts of the people, with more honor, and much lesse paine and daunger, than if he would haue forced them by armes, the which notwithstanding he could well employ at need. The engines to batter and defend townes and forts, were infi­nit: there were threescore and fourteene ensignes taken: the gold and siluer was carried to the Generall: there were two hundred threescore and sixteen cups of gold, euery one weigh­ing a pound; and in siluer coined eighteene thousand and three hundred pounds weight, with great store of siluer plate. All which things were deliuered by weight to C. Flaminius the trea­surer. Besides, there was found 40000 bushels of wheat, and 270000 of barley. There were [Page 55] taken within the port an hundred and thirteene shippes of burthen, whereof many were still laden with armes, corne, siluer, yron, cloth, stuffe to make ropes, and other things for the vse of shippes: so as in regard of the spoyle, the towne of Carthage was esteemed of least value.

14 The heat and furie of the souldiours being past, and Scipio in quiet possession of the towne, without any contradiction, the same day leauing the towne in gard to Caius Lelius, with the souldiors of his gallies and mariners, he brought backe the Armie and Legions to their campe, very much tyred with so many exploits of warre which they had done in one day: for they had fought hand to hand in field, had giuen an assault, and taken the towne with extreame paine and danger, and that being taken, they had been still forced to fight with great disaduantage against them that held the castle: wherefore he suffered them to rest vntill the next day, when as he caused the whole armie both of sea and land to assemble, thanking first of all the gods,Scipio doth first giue thanks to the gods for his victorie. who not onely had deliuered into their hands the richest towne of all Spaine, but had gathered together in it as it were a spoyle of all that was precious in Spaine and A­fricke; so as their enemies were left naked of all things, and they were abundantly furnished with superfluitie. Then did he publikely acknowledge the valour of his souldiors, commen­ding such as had done their duties,He commends the souldiors va­lour. according to euery mans vertue and resolution, where­with they had repulsed the enemies, who had sallied out so furiously against them; and not­withstanding the height of their wals, the dangers of vnknowne passages in the moores, and the munition of their forts and citadels, they had past all, and surmounted all obstacles. Wherefore although he knew that all deserued much, yet it was expedient to haue an espe­ciall regard to those that had first mounted vp the wals, and therefore he commaunded they should shew themselues. There were two souldiors which pretended this honour to be due vnto them: it was a crowne of gold made with battlements,A murall crown. which the custome and auncient militarie order of the Romanes did giue vnto him that mounted first vp the enemies walls. One of these was Q. Trebellius, a Centenier of the first Legion; and the other, Sextus Digitius, a souldior of the sea armie;Emulatian for honour. who (as it happeneth often) had put the whole armie into facti­ons, either being supported by them of his ranke. C. Lelius maintained them of the fleet, and M. Sempronius Turditanus the Legionaries; which contention had almost bred a mutinie, but Scipio gaue them arbitrators, which were the two abouenamed, and P. Cornelius Caudinus for a third, who should examine the cause, and informe him. Notwithstanding, after they had taken from them these men of respect, who should be judges in stead of supporters, the dis­order grew greater: for although they seemed partiall, yet they did restraine the violent pas­sions of both parties, rather than maintaine them: which C. Lelius perceiuing, leauing the as­sembly, he went and informed Scipio, that this businesse was handled without modestie, order, or reason, and that they were like to fall to armes: and although they proceeded not so farre, yet was it dishonest and a very bad example, that honour due to vertue should be sought in that manner by corruption and false witnesses:The reward of vertue must not be sought by vicious meanes. for on the one side the Legionaries, and on the other the mariners, offered to sweare what they would haue them, not knowing the truth, nor considering that in so doing they made themselues guiltie of perjurie, and did draw the punishment of that crime not onely vpon their owne heads, but vpon the whole armie, and on the Romane Ensignes and Eagles,Romans religious violating and contemning in this manner the reue­rence of an oath: Hee aduertised him of these things by the aduice of Cornelius and Sempro­nius, the two other arbitrators. Scipio gaue him thankes, and did much commend him for it? wherefore hauing called the souldiours together, he let them vnderstand, That he was duly informed,Scipio doth cun­ningly pacifie a great tumult. how that Q. Trebellius and Sext. Digitius were the first that mounted vp the wals of Carthage, and the one as soone as the other, and therefore in witnesse of their vertues he did honour either of them with a murall crowne. And thus he wisely pacified a great sediti­on among the souldiors, and did auoid a detestable profanation of all religion; the which was of great consequence among the Romanes, who were no lesse desirous, that the world should be as well conceited of their pietie and justice, as of their valour. He afterwards re­warded euery one according to his merits, and among others, Lelius Generall of the armie at sea, to whom he did as great honor as he would haue done vnto himselfe, giuing him a crowne of gold, and thirtie oxen. Hee caused all the hostages of Spaine to be brought before him, which were found in new Carthage, to whom he spake courteously, giuing them good hope, [Page 56] and letting them vnderstand, That they were fallen into the hands of a Nation, which de­sired more to win the hearts of men,Scipio seekes to win the Spani­ards hearts by his great b [...]untie. and to tye them vnto them by their good deeds, than to constraine them by feare or force; and had rather haue other nations for their faithfull companions, than to subdue by an odious seruitude. He caused the names of the Townes and Communalties of Spaine to bee giuen him in a List, and enquired of the number of prisoners of either of them, to whom he sent messengers, willing them to come and receiue their owne. If at that time there were any embassadours of any of those places within his campe, hee presently caused theirs to be deliuered vnto him. C. Flaminius Treasurer generall had the charge of the rest, with commaundement to entreat them well. Whilest these things were in hand, a Spanish Ladie, who was very old, stept out of the troupe of hostages,A Spanish ladie hauing honor in recommendation and cast her selfe at Scipioes feet: shee was wife to Mandonius, brother to Indi­bilis, Lord of the Ilergetes: beseeching him to giue especiall charge vnto the gards, to entreat the women well and honestly: To whom Scipio answered, That they should not want any thing: But (sayth she) it is not the fcare of any want that maketh me thus carefull: for what doth not suffice them that are in our estate? I feare another thing; it is the youth of those that are about me, whom I see in danger to receiue disgrace: as for me, my age doth free me from that misfortune. There were about her the daughters of Indibilis, and manie o­thers of great houses, very faire, and in the flower of their ages, which honoured this Ladie as their mother. Then Scipio with a noble and vertuous courage answered thus: Truely, the discipline which I haue learned among the Romanes, and which I obserue, doth admonish me, that whatsoeuer is held worthie of respect in any part of the world, should not bee violated or corrupted by vs: Scipio honours the vertue of ladies, prisoners. but aboue all this, your vertue and modestie inciteth mee to be more carefull to preserue you, seeing you shew that you haue not any way forgotten that which doth most honour and adorne women. He therefore gaue them in gard vnto one, whose modestie and conti­nencie was well knowne vnto him, commanding him to keepe them with as much honest respect, as if they were the wiues and mothers of their owne allies. Then they brought vnto him a young virgine a prisoner, fit to be married, and so exceeding faire, as she drew vnto her the eyes of all that beheld her. Scipio enquired of whence, and what parents she was of? Among other things he vnderstood, That she was promised to a young No­bleman of the Celtiberians, called Allucius: He caused her to be carefully kept; and sent vnto the virgines parents, and to her future husband; that they should come vnto him: who being arriued, he spake vnto this yong man (whom he knew to be exceedingly pas­sioned with loue) vsing a more artificiall speech vnto him than hee did vnto the virgines parents.

I am (sayd hee) young, and so are you, wherefore my desire is, that wee conferre more free­ly together: Your Spouse being brought before mee by our souldiours, and vnderstanding that you loued her with great affection, I did easily beleeue it, seeing her beautie: for if it were law­full for me to seeke the pleasures which youth demaunds, and that my mind and thoughts were not wholly employed for the affaires of the Commonweale,Scipio ouerrules his owne desires, to honor himselfe and his countrey. I would willingly be excused, if I did abandon my selfe to the passions of loue, being so iust and lawfull, as of her that should bee my wife: wherefore I fauour yours as much as I may. Your Spouse hath beene kept here with mee with such honour and respect, as if shee had beene with her father and mother, and hath beene garded to make a pure and absolute present vnto you, worthie of my qualitie and yours. I de­maund onely in recompence of this gift, that you will be a friend to the people of Rome, and if you thinke me thereby to be an honest and a good man, such as they of this countrey haue here­tofore knowne my deceased father and vncle to haue beene, know that there are many such in the citie of Rome; and remember, that there is not any nation vpon the earth, whose hatred you and yours should more seeke to auoid, and to seeke their friendship, than ours.

This vnexpected fauor, the which could not be comprehended nor equalled by any recom­pence or thanks, held this Spaniard seized with joy and shame: who taking Scipio by the right hand, prayed all the gods to requite the great fauour he had done him, seeing he found him­selfe insufficient to make any satisfaction as he desired. Then were the virgins parents called, who seeing their daughter alreadie freed without any ransome, entreated Scipio very earnest­ly to receiue the gold which they had brought to redeeme her, which was of a good quantitie, saying, they would hold it for a great grace, that he had preserued their daughter vndefiled. [Page 57] Scipio being much importuned by them,Scipio addes li­beralitie to his continancie. was content to please them: whereby hee caused these presents to be brought before him, and hauing called for Allucius, hee sayd vnto him: Besides that which you are to receiue of your father in law in dowrie with your wife, take this present from me, commaunding him to carrie this gold away with him. Allucius hauing receiued these honours and presents from Scipio, he returned joyfull and content to his house, filling the whole countrey with his prayse and merits: and in truth it was an act as gene­rous, liberall, chast, and religious, as hath beene in the memorie of any age done by a Pa­gan in his youth and vigour, and who had commaundement and soueraigne power in that behalfe ouer the enemie; but it may be it was not without ambition, nor humane consi­derations.

There was a bruit throughout all Spaine, That there was a young man come like vnto a god, who surmounted all things, as well by force of armes,Vertue giues to euery one hi [...] due reward. as by his courtesie and bountie: wherefore Allucius hauing made a leuie of his friends and vassales, came within few dayes vnto Scipio, being accompanied with foureteene hundred horse, to doe him and the people of Rome seruice.

Scipio after hee had stayed C. Lelius with him some dayes, to dispose of the hostages, the spoyle, and all other things with his aduice and counsell, he sent him to Rome with a galeasse, and Mago with him, who was late Gouernour of new Carthage, and about fifteene Senators prisoners, to bee messengers and assured witnesses of his victorie. During his abode at Car­thage, he exercised his souldiors in all exercises fit for the warres, as well by land as sea. The first day he caused the Legions to run armed foure myles together,Militarie exer­cises done by Scipio. which makes a league: the next day he made them to scoure their armes before their tents: the third day they fought in forme of battaile with poles and darts blunted: the fourth day they rested, and the fifth they ran againe with their armes. Thus he did employ his souldiors during his abode at Car­thage. The mariners did exercise themselues in rowing vp and downe in their gallies, and made sea fights to trie the swiftnesse of their gallies. These things were done without the wals of the towne, to fashion their minds and bodies to all warlike exercises: but within Car­thage there was nothing but preparation to armes,The care and di­ligence of a good Generall. the Generall being carefull to see all things himselfe in person. Sometimes he went aboord the gallies, sometimes he ran with the Legionaries, sometimes he went to visit the workmen in the Port and Arsenall, vsing incre­dible care and diligence. Hauing thus prouided for all things necessarie, repaired the brea­ches of the towne, and manned it with good souldiours, he went to Tarracone. In the end the deputies of many townes of Spaine came vnto him, where he had assigned an assembly for all the allies of the people of Rome, as well old as new, whither came many deputies on this side Ebro, and some beyond it.

The Captaines and Commaunders of the Carthaginians did what they could to conceale the losse of Carthage;The Carthagini­ans dissemble their losse. and when as they found it was generally knowne, they sought with good words to repaire their losse, saying, it was but a towne lost, surprised by a young man, who persuaded himselfe, that he had thereby woon all: but when he should see three great captaines and three victorious armies approach, he would abate his pride, and remember the miserable end of his house. This they bruited among the people, yet knew they that the losse of Carthage had much weakened their forces.

The 34 day after that Lelius was parted from Carthage, he arriued at Rome with his priso­ners, to the great contentment of the people. The next day hee deliuered vnto the Senate what had beene done in Spaine; the towne of new Carthage (the chiefe of the whole coun­trey) taken in one day, and many townes which were reuolted, returned again to the Romans, and many others receiued into a new league; the which was verified by the prisoners an­sweres. The Romans aboue all things feared Asdrubals passage: for they had worke ynough to resist Hannibal alone. Lelius was sent backe into Spaine in the same vessell which had brought him.

The yeare following,Ann. Rom [...] 544. when as Qu. Fab. Max. for the fifth time, and Qu. Fulv. Flacc. for the fourth time were Consuls of Rome. Scipio hauing spent all the Winter to win the hearts of this barbarous nation, some by presents, others in deliuering them their hostages and priso­ners, Edesco a famous captaine among the Spaniards came vnto him: His wife and children were with the Romanes, the which was partly the cause of his reuolt: and withall, he found [Page 58] all the Spaniards to affect the Romanes, and to abandon the Carthaginians, as Indibilis and Mandonius did, who were then the greatest noblemen in Spaine, and were diuided from Asdrubals campe, lodging with their troupes on the sides of certaine hils, from whence their passage was safe and easie vnto the Romanes.Asdrubal thinkes to repaire their losses by a bat­taile. Asdrubal finding this disfauour in the Carthaginians affaires, resolued to hazard a battaile, before they were quite abandoned by their allies; and Scipio on the other side demaunded nothing more: for besides the hap­pie successe of his enterprises, which puft him vp, he thought it more expedient to fight, thinking it more safe to charge Asdrubal alone, than to stay vntill the other two Comman­ders and armies were joyned with him. Notwithstanding all this, he had prouided for all euents, if he should be forced to fight with many: for seeing that all the coast of Spaine was cleere from the Carthaginian gallies, and therefore hauing no vse of his, hee disar­med them at Tarracone, and put both the souldiors and mariners among his Legions, and thereby did much encrease his armie: for he had found wherewithall to arme them with­in Carthage, besides the armes which hee caused to be daily made. With this resolution he departed from Tarracone, after the returne of Caius Lelius, without whose aduice Sci­pio did not attempt any matter of consequence, and crossing a great countrey, hee found all things quiet and fauourable for his armie: vpon the way he encountred Mandonius and Indibilis, Mandonius and Indibilis reuolt vnto the Romans who came to meet him with their troupes. Indibilis spake vnto Scipio for them all, not rashly or foolishly, after the manner of the Barbarians, but with great grauitie, mo­destie, and pertinent reasons, rather excusing than glorifying themselues, that they were come vnto him, leauing the Carthaginians partie; letting him vnderstand, That they did it not lightly,In revolts the cause and not the name is to be regarded. or vpon the first occasion: for they knew well, that the name of reuolt was execrable among old allies, and alwaies suspect vnto new, by the generall custome of all nations, the which (sayd he) I doe not disallow, so as the hatred which is borne vnto such men, be grounded vpon the cause, and not meerely vpon the name of reuolt. Afterwards he made a discourse of that which they had done for the Carthaginians, and of the pride, couetousnesse, ingratitude, and wrongs which had beene done vnto them by their soul­diors; protesting, that for these considerations they had long before resolued to addresse themselues vnto the Romanes, with whom they thought that justice and respect had place, although their persons were in the Carthaginians armies. Moreouer he sayd, That they had recourse vnto the gods by prayers, who neuer suffer the violences and insolencies of men vnpunished; and they entreated Scipio not to esteeme them lesse for their retreat vnto him, nor to value them more, but that he should hereafter vse them according to their me­rits, and according to the zeale and affection hee should find in them. Scipio answered, That he would doe so,It is no rebellion to leaue them which despise God and nature. and that he did not esteeme them rebels, which held not themselues tied to any alliances made with men, which make no account of any diuine or humane lawes; com­maunding, that their wiues and children should be presently deliuered vnto them: which was a pleasing and acceptable gift vnto these Spaniards. The next day Scipio hauing taken their oathes, and contracted with them, he sent them into their countries, to make new leuies of men: afterwards, by the direction of these noblemen of Spaine, the Romane armie went to meet with the enemie.

Asdrubal was come to lodge his campe neere vnto Becula,Asdrubal comes towards the Romanes. a towne or riuer (for in this point the Authors are doubtfull, it may be it was both) beyond the riuer of Ebro, and had set gards and sentinels on horsebacke vpon the approches; the which were at the first char­ged by the fore-runners, and by them of the Romane fore-ward; who made so small resi­stance, as they might easily judge, how much the two parties did differ in courage. These horsemen made a speedie retreat towards their campe, being pursued by the Romanes, who carried their colours euen vnto the enemies trenches and rampiers; and hauing that day onely quickened their courages a little, they planted their campe. In the night Asdrubal re­mooued his armie vnto the side of a hill, where there was a large plaine, hauing a riuer be­hind him, and on either side steepe craggie rockes. This place commaunded another plaine, the which had also a steepe descent round about it, the which was hard to mount vnto. As­drubal seeing the Romane armie in battaile in this lower plaine, he sent downe the Numidi­an horsemen,Scipio encoura­geth his armie to fight. the souldiors of Maiorca, which were lightly armed, and the Africanes. Scipio went from ranke to ranke to encourage his men, telling them, That the enemie fled the fight, [Page 59] and durst not come downe to battaile, but sought places of strength, as one that had no con­fidence in his vertue, nor armes: wherefore they should remember, that the walls of Car­thage (which were much higher than those rampiers) could not hinder their entrie, and that there was no obstacle could repulse the vertue of the Romanes. To what end shall those high clyffes where they are lodged, serue? but to make them haue the greater fals when you shall chase them, and they flye to saue themselues; but I will stop that passage: and thus he encouraged his soul­diours. Hee then sent two companies, the one to seize vpon the strait of the valley by the which the riuer did run, and the other to keepe the way, by the which they came from the town by the vallies and passages of those hils into the open field. Then he led the most actiue and light souldiours, which had the day before broken the enemies gards, directly to them which were vpon the edge of the first plaine. When they began to mount, they found no o­ther hinderance but the roughnesse of the way, but when they came to approch within the reach of their darts, they were presently entertained with a shower of arrowes, darts, and stones, whereof the souldiors and horse-boyes had abundance in that place. Although the place were hard to ascend, and the Romanes much galled with their darts, yet those which had beene accustomed to the assaults of townes,He chargeth the enemie. growing obstinat against all opposition, in the end got vp; then was the chance turned: for as soone as the Romanes could get any sure footing, and come to handie blowes with the enemie (where they were not so expert as in running and leaping) they were soone dislodged, and chased with great slaughter vpon their owne battaile, which stood in order vpon the hill. Then Scipio hauing commaunded his vi­ctorious souldiors to pursue and to charge this battaillon in the middest couragiously, he di­uided the rest of his troupes betwixt himselfe and Lelius, whom he commanded to compasse in that little hill on the right side, and to seeke some easie way to get vp vnto it, and he in the meane time went and charged the enemies vpon the flanke, who were much amazed and troubled, thinking to turne the head of their battaile against the Romanes, whose cryes they heard on euery side, when as suddainely Lelius came vpon them: so, as being prest on all sides, they were soone disordered,Asdrubal and the Carthagini­an armie defea­ted by Scipio. they themselues opening their rankes, to giue passage to their companions which fled, hauing no meanes to retyre in good order, in a place which was so strait and of such disaduantage. Here there was a great slaughter made, and it preuailed lit­tle to flye: for the gards which were set by Scipio vpon the passages, stayed them; yea, the mul­titude was partly stayed by the Captaines and Commaunders, to saue the baggage, whilest the rest did fight: besides, their Elephants being terrified, were as hurtfull to them as to the Romanes. There died eight thousand of the Carthaginian armie. Asdrubal stayed not to the end of the battaile, but hauing sent some of the Elephants before with his sil­uer, he retyred almost in the beginning of the fight, following the riuer of Tayo, vntill hee got vnto the mountaines, where hee gathered them together that fled. Scipio seized vpon the enemies campe, and gaue all the spoyle vnto the souldiors, except the prisoners of free condition, whereof there were ten thousand foot and two thousand horse;Scipio seekes to win the Spani­ards by his boun­tie. among the which, such as were Spaniards were set free without ranson, and sent home to their houses: the Africanes were deliuered to the Treasurer to be sold. The Spaniards which were in the Ro­mane armie, as well those that were before yeelded, as prisoners, rejoycing at the happinesse of this victorie, honoured with his bountie, running about Scipioes lodging, began to salute him with the title of King; but he let them vnderstand, that he was not pleased therewith: wherefore hauing enjoyned them to silence by a trumpet, he sayd vnto them:Scipio as a Ro­man detest [...] the title of a King. That he held himselfe sufficiently honoured to bee called by his souldiours by that name which the Romanes in their tongue gaue vnto their Generall; which was, Imperator, as one would say, he that commaunds an Armie, which was a great title for him. As for the name of a King, it may be it was esteemed a­mong other Nations, but the Romanes could not endure it: yet hee had a royall heart, and if they found such a disposition to be worthie of respect, they should be content to thinke so, and vse no more that word of King. The Barbarians did obserue an admirable greatnesse of courage in Scipio, that being seated in so high a degree, yet hee contemned the title which all o­ther men doe so highly esteeme. After this, he bestowed presents vpon the noblemen of Spaine, and gaue three hundred horses to Indibilis, such as he would chuse of those which had beene taken.

[Page 60] As they were selling of the African prisoners, by the Generals commaund, there was a goodly young stripling, whom the Treasurer (hearing that he was royally descended) sent to Scipio: Massina nephew to Massinissa prisoner to the Romans. being demaunded by Scipio, What he was, and of whence, and why he followed armes being so young? he answered with teares, That he was a Numidian, and that his name was Mas­siua, who being left an Orphan, retyred to Gala king of the Numidians, his grandfather by the mo­thers side, and there had beene bred vp, and had followed his vncle Massinissa, who came lately into Spaine to succour the Carthaginians with some bands of horse: That before that time hee had neuer beene in any combat, for that his vncle restrained him, by reason of his tender age: but the day of the last charge he had stolne from him, and hauing found meanes to recouer horse and armes, he had thrust himselfe into the battaile with the rest, where he had beene ouerthrowne by the default of his horse, and was taken by the Romanes. Scipio commaunded, that this Numidian should be kept, vntill hee had finished that which concerned the publicke. Being afterwards retyred to his tent, he sent for him againe, and asked him if he would returne to his vncle; who answered with great signes of joy, That he would be very glad. Then Scipio hauing giuen him a gold ring, a rich embrodered robe, a cassocke after the Spanish fashion, with a claspe of gold; and hauing mounted him vpon a good horse, with rich furniture, he sent him away, giuing him certaine knights to conduct him where hee pleased. These things being thus past, as they consulted among the Romanes touching the affaires of the warre, many were of opinion, That he should pursue Asdrubal; yet Scipio was content to place a garrison in the straits and passages of the mountaines, employing all the rest of the Summer to win the Spani­ards by gifts and other fauours, receiuing many into the alliance and protection of the peo­ple of Rome.

17 In the meane time the two other captaines Mago and Asdrubal sonne to Gisgo came into base Spaine, to joyne with Asdrubal Barcinien, somewhat too late after his defeat, but very fitly to consult of their affaires. They saw the Spaniards were daily practised to reuolt, and that the Carthaginians should not be able to hold any one place in Spaine, if they did not speedily preuent it. Asdrubal of Gisgo relyed much vpon the Spaniards which dwelt a­long the Ocean, and about Gadiz, whereas the Romanes had not yet beene: but the other two did foresee that the Romanes bountie would corrupt them as well as the rest; assuring themselues, that there was not any Communaltie, nor priuat man in Spaine, which began not to wauer,The Carthagini­ans resolue to carry all the Spanish soldiors out of Spaine, to preuent reuolts. and would neuer cease to reuolt, if they did not vse one meanes to preuent it: which was, That Asdrubal Barcinien should gather together all the Spaniards he could, and lead them into Italie; as it had beene formerly concluded: and by this means Spaine should be disarmed of her owne forces, and more easily kept in awe by feare; and as for their armies, they would supply them with other souldiors: and therefore they were of opinion, That Ma­go should leaue his troupes to Asdrubal Gisgo, and passe speedily into the Islands of Maiorca and Minorca, with store of treasure, to make good leuies of that nation: In the meane time Asdrubal of Gisgo should retyre into the farthest bounds of the Lusitanians, to auoid all oc­casion of fighting with the enemie: That Massinissa with three thousand horse chosen out of all the bands, should spoyle the enemies countrey on this side the riuer of Ebro, and succour their friends and faithfull allies. These things being concluded by the Carthaginian captains, were presently put in execution.

In the eleuenth yeare of the second Punicke warre, M. Marcellus and T. Quintius Crispinus being created Consuls at Rome, the gouernments of Spaine were confirmed for another yeare to P. Cor. Scipio and to M. Sillanus. The sea Armie in Spaine being eightie gallyes, as well of those which came out of Italie, as were taken at Carthage, were reduced vnto thirtie by a decree of the Senate, commaunding Scipio to send fiftie into Sardinia, as well for the de­fence of that Island, as of Italie, by reason of the great preparation which was made in A­fricke, whereas they said the Carthaginians did arme two hundred sayle, to come vpon the coast of Italie.Asdrubal Barci­ [...]ien passeth into Italy. This yeare Spaine was somewhat quiet, Asdrubal thinking onely of his voy­age into Italie, and to prepare his armie, wherein he vsed exceeding great diligence, vntill he had passed the Pyrenees. Being entred into Gaule with great store of treasure, hee leuied souldiors of that nation, and assured his passage by the Alpes; the which did much trouble the Romanes: for they had then worke ynough to make head against Hannibal: but the wise­dome [Page 61] of C. Nero and M. Liuius, the new Consuls for the yeare following, freed them of that care: who by an aduenturous, but a necessarie stratageme of warre, whilest they kept Hanni­bal play in Apulia, defeated and slew Asdrubal, neere vnto Senegaille, with almost all the Spaniards, Gaules, and Ligurians, whereof his army consisted:Asdrubal and his armie defea­ted in Italie. a defeat which did recompence that of Canes, yet was it not without great effusion of bloud on the Romanes side, who lost aboue 8000 men. Yet this did assure their estate, which vntill that time had beene in great danger; and Hannibal vpon the newes of his brothers death, began to distrust his owne good successe and his countries.

Spaine during Asdrubals preparation, and a while after his passage into Italie, had some rest from warre, but they fell soone againe to armes. At that time Asdrubal, sonne to Gisgo, kept about the Island of Gades, and in the West marches, neere vnto the Ocean. The Romanes commaunded all along the Mediterranean sea, and held all that part of Spaine which lies to­wards the East.Hanno sent from Ca [...]thage into Spain with a new armie. In the place of Asdrubal Barcinien they had sent Hanno from Carthage, with a new armie; who hauing passed the sea, joyned with Mago. These two had leuied among the Celtiberians (which is in the middest of Spaine) great troupes of souldiors, in a short space. Scipio sent M. Syllanus against this armie with 10000 foot and 500 horse; who making great marches, by difficult and strait passages, which are ordinarie in Spaine, he approched by the meanes of certaine Celtiberian guides (who had changed their partie) neere vnto the enemy, before they had any newes of him, being also aduertised by the same Celtiberians, when hee came within two leagues of them, that vpon the way hee should encounter two of their campes; that of Celtiberians, newly leuied, on the left hand, being some 9000 men; and the other of Carthaginians, on the right hand. As for these, they obserued good discipline, kept their gards, and had their sentinels placed in good order; but the others regarded it not, but were secure and carelesse, like new souldiors: who thinking themselues at home, apprehen­ded nothing that was to be feared. Wherefore Syllanus marched first towards them, causing his troupes to goe on the left hand, as closely as they could, least the Carthaginians in the o­ther lodging should discouer him. Then he sent forth some to discouer the enemies counte­nance, and marched speedily after them. He was now within lesse than halfe a league, before the enemie had any notice of his comming: for he went by broken wayes and deepe vallies full of trees, where he fed his armie: there they returned vnto him, whom he had sent forth to discouer, who confirmed that which the reuolted Spaniards had deliuered vnto him. Then the Romanes (leauing their baggage vpon the place) put themselues in battaile, and mar­ched against the enemies, whom they found in great amazement, seeing the Romane armie so neere. Mago, who was in the other campe, posted thither vpon the first bruit, to put them in defence. There were some 4000 good souldiours among the Celtiberians, carrying tar­guets, and 200 horse, the which were set in the front, and the rest to second them were light­ly armed; and in this manner they came to fight. They were scarce come without their ram­piers, when as the Romanes cast their darts at them, but the Spaniards stooped to auoid them:M. Syllanus sur­prizeth and de­feats the Car­thaginians. then rising suddainely againe, they cast theirs against the Romanes, who standing close, and couered with their targuets, defended themselues from any harme; but approa­ching neerer, they came to the sword. The place where they did fight was of great aduan­tage for the Celtiberians, by reason of the vneuennesse, whose custome was to skirmish with leapes and jumpes, contrarie to the Romanes, who fight close, and stand firme: and there­fore this vneuen ground did not much trouble them, but that they were sometimes con­strained to breake their rankes, by reason of the straits and little groues, wherewith the countrey is full, fighting sometimes one to one, and two to two; the which did also hinder the enemies from flying, and exposed them to the slaughter. All those of the fore-ward which carried targuets, were in a manner slaine, and they continued killing and ouerthrow­ing those that were lightly armed, and the Carthaginians which were come to their suc­cours, led by another Hanno, who was taken aliue: but Mago retyred in the beginning of the battaile with about 3000 foot and all the horse, and the tenth day after came vnto Asdru­bals campe. The Celtiberian souldiours which remained, got home into their countrey through the woods and forrests. This victorie was very pleasing vnto Scipio, who did great­ly extoll Syllanus his vertue, and was in hope to end the warre, if he did speedily set vpon As­drubal, who remained in the remotest part of Spaine, in the Betique Prouince, which now [Page 62] is Andalousie. He hauing intelligence, that Scipio marched towards him, dislodged from the place where hee encamped,Asdrubal breaks vp his army, and leaues the field to the Romans. and retyred in great disorder towards the Island of Gades, then thinking, that whilest he had an armie in field, they would not cease to pursue him, he resolued to breake vp his campe, and to put his souldiours into garrison, as well for their safetie, as the townes, and he himselfe went into the Island.

Scipio being aduertised, that the enemie had no armie in field, and seeing that he must make warre in diuers parts of the countrey, and besiege one towne after another, a matter of some difficultie, and of more toile than profit, he turned head again: yet for that he would not whol­ly abandon that part of Spain to the enemy, he left L. Scipio his brother with an army of 10000 foot and 1000 horse, to trie if he could take Auringe, the chiefe place of the country, situated in a fertile soyle, vpon the marches of the Mellesians, the inhabitants whereof were naturall Spaniards. There were certain mynes of siluer found, & it was Asdrubals retreat, from whence he made his courses into the countrey. L. Scipio being come neere the towne, before he did wholly besiege it, he sent some to parle with the inhabitants, to know their minds, and to per­suade them rather to trie the Romans friendship than their armes. Preuailing nothing, he be­sieged it, and cast a trench about it, with a double pallisado, diuiding his armie into 3 troupes, the which should keepe the towne in continuall alarme. The first assault giuen by one of the three troupes was valiantly maintained, and their ladders, with the souldiors which mounted, throwne into the ditch, and the assailants were often in danger to be drawne vp with hooks of yron, which the besieged cast downe from the wals and towers,The Romans besiege Auringe. so as the Romans were forced to retire. L. Scipio finding that the small number which he had sent to the assault made the par­tie vnequall, hauing therefore caused the first to retire, he sent all the rest of his armie to giue a new assault: the which did so amaze the besieged, being tyred with the first assault, as the inha­bitants abandoned the wals; and the garrison of Carthaginians thinking that the towne had bin yeelded, left their gards where they had bin set, and put themselues into one body. The in­habitants fearing, that if the enemy forced the town, they should be all put indifferently to the sword, resolued to preuent this danger by yeelding: and hauing opened a gate, they went forth in troupes, carying only their targuets, to defend themselues from the Romans darts, and hol­ding vp their right hands naked in sign of peace, they let the Romans vnderstand that they yiel­ded. It is doubtfull whether they did vnderstand their meaning, seeing them come a far off, or whether the Romans did doubt some fraud;Auringe taken by L. Scipio. but they charged these poore Spaniards, and cut them all in peeces, and by the same port entred the towne with their colours flying, killing all they met without exception, & in the meane time some of their troups forced the other gates, and made way vnto their companions. The horsemen being entred, seized vpon the chiefe pla­ces, as they were commaunded, being followed by them which they called Triaires, which are footmen, fighting alwaies in the rereward, to second where need required. The rest of the le­gionaries dispersed themselues throughout the towne, putting all to the sword. In the end the Carthaginians were taken prisoners, and some 300 of the inhabitants: the rest which remained after the furie were pardoned, and their houses and libertie yeelded them. There died at the ta­king of this towne 2000 of the enemies, and some 90 of the Romans. It was a pleasing exploit to them that did execute it, but especially to P. Scipio, who commended Lucius his brother with all the honorable tearmes he could, equalling the taking of Auringe to that of Carthage: and seeing winter approched, & that there was little reason to pursue Asdrubal, & lesse to vndertake the siege of Calis, he retired with his campe on this side Ebro, & sent his soldiors to winter. He sent L. Scipio to Rome, with newes of that which had bin done, and with him he sent Hanno, one of the enemies captains, and many other great prisoners: this done, he retired to Tarracone.

19 The Romans after this good successe were in hope to chase their enemies out of Spain: for hauing defeated one of their armies, taken one of their chiefe commaunders, the rest of their forces being disbanded, and forced to liue within their forts and garrisons, in the farthest parts of the countrey, Scipio thought there was now no cause of any present feare, but that he might dispose of his affaires at leysure: yet he was deceiued: for Spaine by reason of their stirring spirits; and the opportunitie of places, was in that respect as fit as any Region in the world (after such defeates) to leuie new armies, and to reuiue the warre. Asdrubal then, sonne to Gisgo (who did second the Barcins in wisedome and valour worthie of a great Commaunder) being assisted by Mago, sonne to Amilcar, did so deale with the Spaniards, [Page 63] as he leuied 50000 foot and 4500 horse of that nation, beyond the riuer of Ebro: he mustered them neere vnto the towne of Sylpia, and there did the two Carthaginian captains encampe, being resolued to accept of a battaile if it were offered. Scipio aduertised of this great vnex­pected preparation, drew his Legions to field, although he held them not sufficient to oppose against so mightie an armie. As for the succours of Spanish allies, his meaning was to make some shew vnto the enemie: yet would he not fortifie himselfe with so great troupes, as he should haue cause to feare his ruine by their trecherie,Scipio trusts not vnto mercina­ries, as his father had done. as had happened vnto his father and vncle: wherefore he sent Syllanus to Colca, who commaunded ouer 28 townes, to demand the succours of horse and foot, which he had promised to enroll during the Winter: and he him­selfe going from Tarracone, as he passed by the townes of his allies, tooke vp such souldiors as he thought good, and came to Castulo, whereas Syllanus met him with 3000 foot and 500 horse. From thence he marched beyond Becula, hauing in his armie, as well of citizens of Rome, as of allies, of foot and horse about 45000 fighting men. As they made their lod­ging,Mago and Mas­sinissa charge the Romanes. and did rampier it after the accustomed manner, behold Mago and Massinissa come with all their horsemen, and charge them that were busie at worke; whom they had put to rout, if Scipio had not caused certaine bands of horsemen to gard them, being in battaile behind a lit­tle hill, who aduaunced against the first that were approched neere the rampiers, forcing them to retyre in the beginning without any great difficultie. The fight was long, and some­what doubtfull against them which came afterwards close and in good order, but when as the Romane bands which were dispersed here and there approched, and that the souldiours which laboured at the rampiers, left their worke and fell to armes (being so commaunded) the wearied refreshed with new supplies, and greater numbers comming still from the campe, then the Numidians and Carthaginians finding the charge hote, retyred in the beginning in good order, but being ouerpressed by multitudes, they could no longer make head, but were put to rout,The two armies in battaile rea­die to fight. euery man sauing himselfe as he could. This encounter did puffe vp the hearts of the one, and abate the courage of the others, yet there were daily skirmishes betwixt the horsemen and them that were lightly armed. In the end Asdrubal put his army into battaile, the which Scipio did also on his part: but either armie continued in that manner neere his fort, vntill the euening: whereupon first the Carthaginians and then the Romanes retyred into their campes, and thus they continued for certaine dayes together, Asdrubal comming first to field, and making his retreat first, without any attempt one against another. The Romans held the middle part in their battaile, and the Carthaginians did the like in theirs, being mixt with Africanes: vpon the wings in either armie were their allies, all Spaniards: before the Carthaginians battaile were their Elephants, which a farre off shewed like castles, and it was giuen out, That the armies should fight in that manner, and that the Romanes and Carthagi­nians (betwixt whom the quarrell was, holding the middest of the battailes) should encounter with like armes and courage. Scipio hearing that this opinion was generally beleeued, chan­ged the order of his battaile: wherefore at night hee caused warning to bee giuen secretly throughout the campe, That euery one should be readie for the breake of day, that both men and horse should refresh themselues, the horsemen should be armed, and the horses sadled and bridled: And when as day began to appeare, he sent all his horsemen, and the footmen that were lightly armed, against the Corps de gard, which were vpon the approches of the enemies campe, and then he marched himselfe with the whole armie, hauing against the expectation both of his own soldiors and of the enemie set the Romans vpon either wing, and the troupes of their allies in the midst. Asdrubal moued at the noyse which his horsemen made, goes out of his tent, and seeing the tumult which was before the trenches and palisadoes of his campe, the smal assurance of his soldiors, the enemies colours glistering a far off, and all the fields couered with their troups, he presently sends forth his horsemen against the Roman horse, and he him­selfe hauing put his footmen in battell, goes out of his campe, without changing any thing of his former order. The horsmens encounter continued long, without any aduantage: for whē as any one was forced to giue back (the which was ordinarie on either side) they had a safe retreat to their squadrons of foot: but after that the bodies of both armies were neere one vnto ano­ther, Scipio giuing a signe, caused his horse to retire, & opening the ranks of foot, receiued them within the battell: then he placed them in two squadrons behind the points of it, to reenforce and support his foot; and when he saw it was time to charge, he commanded the battaillon in [Page 64] the middest (which were all Spaniards) to march softly: he himselfe leading the right point, had giuen charge to Syllanus and Martius (who had charge on the other side) that as they should see him aduance,The Romanes and the Cartha­ginians ioyne in battaile. they should doe the like, and begin the battaile with the enemy, with the most resolute of their horse and foot, before the two squadrons in the middest should come to joyne. Wherefore stretching forth in this manner both the wings, either of them with three companies of foot and as many horse, and some forlorne hopes lightly armed, went with all speed to affront the enemie, whilest the others followed. Betwixt both wings there was a void place, for that the Spaniards marched more slowly; and they had alrea­die begun the charge on either side, when as the chiefe strength of the enemie (which consi­sted in the Carthaginians and old African souldiors) was yet a crosse-bow shot of, and durst not turne towards the wings to succour their companions, least they should leaue the bat­taile naked and open to the enemie, who came against them. The horsemen and Romane souldiours did wonderfully gall the enemies wings vpon the flankes, the companies of foot which made the point, prest them in front, and sought to cut off the wings from the rest of the battaile, and euen now the partie was not equall in any part: for besides that the points of the Carthaginians armie were furnished with horse-boyes and Spaniards newly leuied,Scipioes policie deceiues Asdru­bal. who had to deale with Romanes and braue Latine souldiors, the day being far spent, Asdrubals armie grew weake, for that they had beene surprised by the alarme in the mor­ning, and were forced to put themselues in battaile without feeding; the which Scipio had done of purpose, and to that end had delayed the fight for many houres, beginning it as late as he could. It was past noone before the foot companies which were in the wings be­gan to charge, and much later before the battaillons in the middest did joyne, so as be­fore that all their forces came to fight, the heat of the Sunne, the toyle being so long on foot, laden with armes, hunger, and thirst, had so tyred the Carthaginians and young A­fricanes, as they were forced to support themselues vpon their targuets, they were so faint. Besides the Elephants (terrified with the furious combate which was vpon either wing) had run through their middle battaillon. Wherefore the Carthaginians tyred in bodie, and fainting in courage, began to recoyle, but without disorder, euen as if they had retyred by their Generals commaund. But the victorious Romanes charging them with great reso­lution on all sides, when as they found them to shrinke, notwithstanding all the persuasions of Asdrubal to keepe their rankes vnto the next hils, where they had a safe retreat (being not able to withstand the enemies force) they all turned their backes and fled, feare being of more force than shame.Feare is of more force than shame Being come vnto the foot of those hils, they would haue stay­ed their ensignes, and rallied themselues to make head against the Romanes, who had made a stand to put themselues in order to assayle them: but when they saw they were eagrely pursued, they fled into the fortification of their campe, with great amazement, be­ing chased so neere by the Romanes, as they had almost entred pell-mell with them. There fell so great a shower after the heat of the Sunne, as they which pursued, were forced to stand still, and to retyre with great toyle vnto their campe: yea, there were some which did superstitiously beleeue, That it was not good to proceed any farther that day. Although the night and the raine did inuite the Carthaginians (who were tyred and wounded) to take some rest; yet feare and danger made them to fortifie their campe with all expedition, which they presumed would be assayled by the enemie at the breake of day: and seeing they could not conquer by armes, they raysed their rampiers with stones, gathered out of the neere val­lies. Hereupon they did see themselues abandoned by their allies:Trecherie of the Spaniards to the Carthaginians, their allies. wherefore they thought it best to be gone, holding flight more safe for them than anyforce. The beginning of the Spaniards reuolt was by Atanes Lord of the Turditanes, who passed vnto the Romans campe with great troupes of his subjects: and soone after two forts of importance were yeelded vnto the Romanes by such as had them in gard. Asdrubal fearing this mischiefe would grow greater, trussed vp his baggage and dislodged. Scipio being aduertised in the morning, that the enemie was gone, sent his horsemen after them, and then marched after with the Legi­ons and the rest of the armie with all speed: who if they had followed them the rightway, they had soone ouertaken them: but they trusted to their guides, who assured them of ano­ther way, which conducted them to the riuer of Betis, where they might cut off their passage. Asdrubal hearing that way was stopped, was once in mind to haue retired towards the Ocean: [Page 65] but his souldiours (obseruing no kind of discipline) marched like men that fled, so as they got some ground of the Romane Legions: yet the horsemen and souldiors which were lightly ar­med, pursued them still, and did not abandon them; but charging them sometimes in the rere, and sometimes in the flanke, did stay them and force them to fight, vntill the Legions arriued: then was there no more any combat, but a slaughter, as of sheepe, vntill that their Generall (the author of their flight) saued himselfe with about seuen thousand men, most without armes; the rest were in a manner all slaine or taken. The Carthaginians which escaped with their captaine,An absolute de­feat of the Car­thaginians. entrenched themselues suddainely vpon a mount, and there defended them­selues easily against the Romanes, who did striue to get vp; yet being in a naked and desart place, and vnfit to endure a siege of few dayes, many disbanded and went to the Romanes campe: the which Asdrubal perceiuing, he abandoned his souldiors, embarked himselfe, and passed into the [...] of Calis. Scipio aduertised of his flight, left Syllanus with tenne thou­sand foot and a thousand horse to besiege their campe, and he with the rest of the armie re­turned in 70 daies to Tarracone, where he should dispose of the affaires of the princes and no­blemen of Spaine, and giue rewards according to euery ones merit.

After his departure,Massinissa pra­ctised by Silla­nus. Syllanus had secret conference with Massinissa, who hauing new de­signes in his head, passed into Africke with a small traine, that he might draw his people to his owne humor. The cause of his suddaine change did not then appeare, the which he did afterwards justifie by a long and constant loyaltie, wherein hee did persist vntill his death. Mago did also passe into the Island of Gades, Asdrubal hauing sent backe the vessels: so as the armie (being abandoned by the Commaunders) was dispersed, some sauing themselues by flight in the neighbour townes, and some yeelding to the Romanes. In this manner were the Carthaginians chased out of Spaine,The Carthagini­ans chased out of Spaine. about the twelfth yeare of the second Punick warre, by the conduct and happinesse of Publius Scipio, fiue yeares after that he had had the charge of the armies and gouernment of Spaine. Within few daies after Syllanus came to Scipio, being at Tarracone, bringing him newes, that the warre was ended. L. Scipio was sent from thence to Rome, with many prisoners of marke to carrie newes of the absolute victorie obtained of the Carthaginians in Spaine. But Scipio not content to haue effected so great matters in that countrey, had a greater designe, so great was his mind, and so desirous of glorie. Wherefore knowing, that there was not any one man to make head against him in Spaine, he embraced all Africke,Great dangers accompany great enterprises. whither he passed to make factions, and to trouble the Carthagi­nians Estate: the which succeeded happily, but it may be with greater hazard than was fit for his ranke.

Pub. Cornelius Scipio being returned out of Africke, where he had withdrawne from the al­liance of the Carthaginians king Siphax their neighbour, and although hee did now see Spaine quiet in respect of the Africanes; yet he knew, that some townes did containe them­selues more for feare than for any loue, as those which had greatly incensed the Romanes during the precedent warres: the first and chiefe, either in greatnesse or offence, were Ca­stulo and Illiturgis:Castulo and Illi­turgis [...] and rebellious townes. Those of Castulo had shewed themselues friends during the prosperi­tie of the Romanes; but after the defeat and death of the two Scipioes, they had reuolted to the Carthaginians. The Illiturgians had done worse: for besides their reuolt, they had deli­uered such as had saued themselues there after these defeats, to the slaughter. These crimes were wisely dissembled by Scipio, when hee came first into the Prouince, and that matters were yet doubtfull: for if he should then haue punished them; he should haue respected ju­stice more than profit.Not expedient at all times to be iust. All things being now assured and quiet, hee thought it a fit time to punish them. Wherefore hauing called Lu. Martius to Tarracone, he sent him to besiege Castulo, with the third part of his forces; and hee himselfe departing from Carthagena, led the rest of his armie before Illiturgis, whither he came in fiue dayes march. The inha­bitants doubting, that they would not leaue their trecheries vnpunished, had fortified their towne, and furnished themselues with all things necessarie to endure a siege. Scipio let his souldiors vnderstand, That these Spaniards did rightly feare that which they had meri­ted, exhorting them to goe against them with greater furie than against the Carthaginians themselues. For (sayd he) the quarrell which wee haue had against them of Carthage, Scipio besiegeth Illiturgis. was one­ly for glorie and desire of rule, but wee take armes against these men, to punish them for their wickednesse and cruell treason. The time is now come, when wee shall reuenge the murthers done [Page 66] vnto our companions, and the trecherie which they had prepared for you, if you had fallen into their hands after the defeats: and therefore let vs deale so, as neuer any Nation shall hereafter dare to wrong the souldiors or citizens of Rome in any disgrace whatsoeuer. Hauing animated his souldiors with these words, hee commaunded ladders should be brought, and distribu­ted to the most assured companies: then diuiding his armie into two, he commaunded, That Lelius his Lieutenant should assayle the towne on the one side, and he would lead the rest into diuers places; the which was executed with great courage and resolution. The townes­men had no need of any captaine to encourage them in their defence: for euery one know­ing his danger,The remem­brance of great crimes make men desperat. was both a spurre to himselfe and his companion, saying, That it was not the honour of a victorie which they sought of them, but their punishment: That they must make an account to die, but it was more honest and safe to hazard it fighting (whereas euery one giueth as well as taketh, and oftentimes the vanquished riseth, and the victor fal­leth) rather than to be led bound and manacled (after that wee shall haue seene our towne burnt to ashes) to end our liues with torments, and all ignominie, in the sight of our wiues and children,Honor and li­bertie animate valiant men. who shall be made slaues. Wherefore they came resolutely to the walls, not onely such as were able to carrie armes, but old men, women, and children, which made resi­stance aboue their forces; they brought stones, and gaue armes to those that did fight. It was not onely a question of libertie which giueth courage to valiant men, but they did ap­prehend the horror of punishments, and the vild and ignominious death which they should suffer: euery one tooke courage, seeing his companions valour: Wherefore if it was well assayled, it was better defended: so as this Romane armie, which had subdued all Spaine, being often repulsed by the inhabitants, did shamefully wauer. Which Scipio perceiuing, he feared least his men should faint after so many vaine attempts, and the enemies should grow more hardie, wherefore hee thought it needfull to hazard his owne person, and to bee partaker of the danger: whereupon he commanded them to make ready their ladders againe, and reproching the souldiors of cowardise, he aduanced to mount himselfe (if he had found them slacke) and came neere vnto the wals,Scipio obstinate to vanquish or die. not without great danger: but the souldiors be­ing very carefull of their Generall, began all to crie out; and carried ladders to all parts. Le­lius did also presse them on his side: so as then the valour of the defendants was forced to giue place, and they abandoned the rampiers. It happened, that during this tumult, the fort which was held impregnable was surprised: for certaine souldiors of Africke reuolted, which were in the Romane armie, seeing that they of the towne were busied to withstand an assault in the most dangerous places, and the Romanes as busie to get an entrie into the towne, they obserued the highest part of the towne, couered with a steepe rocke, which had neither rampier, gard, nor defence. These men being actiue and nimble, began to creepe vp this rocke, with the helpe of certaine pykes of yron, which they did strike into the stones, and made steps of them, the first helping vp their companions which followed;Illiturgis taken, and the executi­ [...]n cruell. so as in the end they got vp to the top of the rocke, from whence they began to run with horrible cries towards the towne, which was alreadie woon by the Romanes. Then shew­ed they the fruits of their choler and hatred: none were spared, but all put to the sword, men, and women, of all ages and sexes; yea, and poore infants: no man cared for spoyle, the fire deuoured what might be consumed,And quite rui­ned. and the rest was ruined, for that the Romanes would not leaue the markes of a towne, nor the memorie of any habitation of such e­nemies.

From thence Scipio led his armie to Castulo. This towne was not onely kept by Spa­niards, which were come thither from diuers places, but also by the remainder of the Car­thaginians, which were brought thither to garrison after the retreat of their armie. But be­fore that Scipio arriued, they had newes of the taking of Illiturgis, which strucke a great rerror among them, and made them almost to despaire: and as euery mans guilt was not alike, so eue­ry one sought to prouide for his owne safetie. Wherefore they began to distrust one another, and in the end fell to an open diuision, the Spaniards seperating themselues from the Cartha­ginians: Cordubelus commaunded the Spaniards, who spake openly, That they must yeeld vn­to the Romans:Cordubelus yeel­deth vp Castul [...], and the Cartha­ginian garrison. Himilco was chiefe of the Carthaginians, whom Cordubelus deliuered vp with the towne vnto the Romans. By this voluntarie reddition, being also not so culpable as they of Illiturgis, the victorie was vsed with lesse rigor.

[Page 67] 22 From thence Martius was sent against them of that nation, which plaid the rebels, to subject them to the Romane yoke: and Scipio returned to new Carthage, to performe the vowes which he had made vnto his gods, and to represent the games of fencing which he had prepared in honour of his deceased father and vncle. These fencers which were brought forth, were none of his slaues, nor such as had beene made free, which the master fencers were wont to present vnto the people, which sell their bloud, and are hired for money: but all those that did fight, came willingly without any fee:Combats vpon furious ambition for some were sent by the noblemen of the coun­trey, to shew the valour and dexteritie of the nation; others presented themselues vnto the combat, for the loue they bare vnto their Generall; others thrust forth with glorie, defied, or being challenged, accepted the combat willingly. Some there were, which not able to end their suits by pleading, resolued trie it by the sword, who were of no base condition, but gentlemen of noble houses. Among others Corbis and Orsua, A suit decided by armes. two cousin germines, who contended for the principalitie of the towne of Ibis, would end their controuersie by armes. Corbis was the elder. The father of Orsua had lately ruled in that towne, hauing succeeded to that seigniorie by the death of his brother. Scipio would haue reconciled them by justice, and knowledge of the cause; but they both answered, That it was not the custome among kinsfolkes, and that they would not haue any gods nor men to be their judges, but Mars. Cor­bis was the stronger, and Orsua the more couragious, by reason of his youth, both resolute to die, rather than to submit himselfe vnto his aduerse partie. With this resolution they shewed themselues to the whole armie. The eldest also had more experience in his weapon, and was more cunning, so as he did easily vanquish the foolish presumption of the younger. To these sights of fencers were added funerall plaies, according to the manner of the Pagans, with pre­paration fit for the countrey, and as at the warre.

23 During these shewes, the Romanes lost no time, Scipioes lieutenants being seriously imployed about their affaires. Martius hauing past the riuer Betis (called Circe by them of the countrey) tooke two good and rich townes, without striking stroke. There was another towne called Astapa, the which had alwayes held the Carthaginians partie,Astapa. and made profes­sion to hate the Romanes deadly, yea when there was not any necessitie of warre: and yet their towne was neither strong by nature, nor art, whereby they should grow proud: but the nature of these men (who had no delight but in theeuing) had caused them to spoile the coun­tries of the Romane allies, and to strip their victualers, souldiors, or merchants,Astapians despe­rat theeues. if they found them scattered; yea they had layd an ambush for a great troupe of men passing through their countrey, and hauing surprised them in a strait, had slaine them. When as the armie came be­fore the towne, the inhabitants prickt with the feeling of their faults, expected no mercie of their enemies, and seeing no meanes to hold against a siege, they tooke a cruell and detestable resolution: for they brought into the middest of their market place all that was good and pre­cious within the towne, and laied it on a heape, vpon the which they set their wiues and chil­dren; then they planted great store of fagots and other wood round about it: this being done, they appointed fiftie yong men well armed, for the gard thereof, enjoyning them, that whilest the euent of the fight betwixt them and the Romanes was doubtfull, they should re­maine there, and be faithfull gardians of their goods, and of those persons whom they held deerest: but if they saw it succeeded ill, and that the towne was in daunger to bee lost, they might then be assured, that all they which had fallied out vpon the enemies were slaine in the fight: wherefore they did conjure them by all the celestiall and infernall gods,A barbarous & detestable reso­lution of the Astapians. to remember their liberties, which that day should end by an honest death, or by an infamous seruitude: and therefore they should not leaue any thing that belonged vnto them, wherewith the ene­mie in his furie might glut his crueltie: to which end they had both fire and swords in their hands; and that therefore such things as were to perish, should be destroyed by the hands of their faithfull friends, rather than be exposed to the scorne and insolencie of the enemie. This spoken, they added an execrable curse vpon those that should suffer themselues to be mooued with any pitie or tendernesse of heart, and forbeare to execute that which they had decreed; then hauing opened the gate, they marched directly to the Romane trenches, with more than a brutish furie. The Romanes had no conceit they should sally thus forth vpon them, where­fore they found the passages vnto the campe but ill garded. Some troupes of horse and foot [Page 68] lightly armed, were suddenly sent out against them, where they came to fight with more furie than good order: Wherefore the horsemen which came first to charge the enemie (be­ing repulsed) amazed the footmen, so as the Astapians had come vnto the Romanes campe, if the legions (hauing some little leasure) had not put themselues into battell. There the ene­mies like madde men, ran desperatly vpon their weapons: but the old souldiours keeping their ground, and ouerthrowing the formost, stayed them that followed: then seeking to beat them backe, finding them obstinatly resolued to dye where they stood, they opened their bat­tailon, compassing them in with the multitude, and slew them all. This was done like souldi­ours, against incensed enemies, that were armed: but within the towne there was a barbarous slaughter,The Astapians do barbarously murther their owne wiues and children. where as the citizens themselues murthered the weake vnarmed multitude of their wiues and little children, casting their bodies yet breathing into the fire, whose bloud did in a manner quench the flames. In the end being tyred with this pitifull slaughter of their owne, they leapt armed as they were into the middest of the fire. Thereupon the victorious Romanes entred, who beholding this cruell spectacle, stood amazed for a season: then see­ing the gold and siluer shine through the fire (thrust on with greedinesse) they went in to ga­ther it vp; but many of them were roasted in the fire; being kept in by the prease that follow­ed them.

Thus ended the siege of Astapa, being consumed by fire, with all her treasure, whereas the Romans got no spoile. After this exploit Martius tooke in many other places of the country, which yeelded to his mercie, and then returned with his victorious armie to new Carthage.

About this time there came certaine deputies secretly out of the island of Gades, who pro­mised to yeeld vp the towne with the Gouernour,The Gaditanes offer to deliuer their town vnto the Roman [...]. into the Romans hands, and all the Cartha­ginians which were there in garrison. Mago was retired thither, after the dissolution of the campe, when as he was forced to flie, who hauing gathered together certaine ships, assembled some troups out of Spaine and Africke, neere vnto the strait. These citizens being heard, and hauing plighted their faith one vnto another, to obserue what had beene promised, they were sent backe. Scipio sent Martius thither by land with his ablest troupes (and Lelius by sea) with seuen gallies and a galleasse; to the end, that with a mutual consent they should mannage this enterprise both by sea and land.

24 Whilest they are busie to surprise Gades, Scipio fell verie sick,Scipio falls verie sicke. but it was made greater, according to the common custome of men: the which did much trouble the whole countrie, and euen those that were farthest off: and it seemed by the discord which grew of this false brute, that if it had beene true, it would haue bred a great alteration of the affaires in Spaine; for neither the allies, nor the Romane armie, could containe themselues in their duties. Man­donius and Indibilis being sorie that the effect was not answerable to their conceptions,Ambition makes Mandonius and Iudibilis dis [...]oial which was, to make themselues kings, as soone as the Carthaginians were expelled, mooued the Lacetanes of their countrey to armes, with many Celtiberians, forraging and spoyling the fields of the Suessetanes and Sedetanes, who were allied to the Romanes. Besides, there grew a mutinie in the Romane campe, neere vnto the riuer of Sucro, or Xucar, where as there lay eight thousand men in garrison, to keepe the people in awe on this side the riuer of Ebro. These troupes had begun to grow disordered, before the vncertaine brute of Scipioes death: which grew through idlenesse, the which doth commonly fall out,Idlenesse makes soldiors insolent and [...]. when as souldiours want imployment. Then they grew licentious, and discontented, for that being accustomed to take spoiles, and to riot at their enemies charges, during the warres, they now saw themselues restrained, and gouerned according to the orders of the time, when as the warre ceased. And these were their reasons. If they make warre (said they) in any part of Spaine, why doe they keepe vs here, where there is no imployment? If the warre be ended, why do they not lead vs backe into Italie? Then they demaunded their pay after an insolent manner,They that are accustomed to liue vpon spoile, cannot subiect themselues to discipli [...]. not like vnto souldiours well disciplined. When the captaines and officers of companies went the round in the night, those that were in the corps degard vsed many opprobrious speeches against them. Some stealing forth in the night, spoyled the countrey of their friends and neighbours: yea they grew so insolent, as euen in the day time they would goe out of the campe, and abandon their ensignes without leaue. Finally, all was done after the appe­tite of souldiors which were without order or discipline, and without any commaund of their [Page 69] heads and Tribunes; onely they were content there should be some forme of a Roman campe maintained, and did suffer the captaines to sit in their accustomed places to doe justice: they tooke the word from them, went to the gard in their turnes, and set their sentinels. And al­though they had in a manner supprest the authoritie of their commaunders, yet they made a shew to obey them, whom in truth they commaunded. This they did, thinking that in the end their captaines, being infected with their frenzie, would joyne with them. But when they saw that they reprehended them sharpely, and that they sought to suppresse their furies,The Roman cap­taines chased out of their camp by the mutined souldiours. and openly refused to be companions vnto them in their insolencies, they chased them first from their seats, and in the end forced them to forsake the campe. Which done, they began to chuse the most seditious among them for their leaders and captaines, creating with a general consent C. Albius Calenus, and C. Atrius Vmber, simple souldiours, to be their Tribunes: who not contented to take the markes of Tribunes, presumed to vsurpe the authoritie of the So­ueraigne head, causing rods and axes to be carried before them, not remembring that those rods and axes wherewith they thought to terrifie other men, should fall vpon their owne shoulders: for the conceit they had of Scipioes death, did blind their vnderstandings, imagi­ning they would presently take armes throughout all Spaine, and that in these tumults they should haue meanes to spoyle the champian countrey, and to ransacke townes; and that any excesse in such a tumultuous time,In a confusion of the state all ex­cesse seemes light would be held light. As they did expect from time to time fresh newes not onely of Scipioes death, but also of his funerall, when as they saw that not a­ny one did come, and that this bruit did vanish by little and little, they began to find their owne errours, demaunding in a rage, Where they were that had abused them with that vn­truth; seeking to persuade themselues, that they had not maliciously inuented it, but rather beleeued it inconsideratly. Wherefore these new captaines were abandoned, and they began now to abhorre the false markes and titles, and the commaund which they had vsurped, ap­prehending the force of justice, whereunto they were subject. This sedition being some­what pacified, and certaine newes come of Scipioes recouerie, there came seuen Colonels, sent by him vnto the campe: at whose arriuall the souldiours began againe to fall into their frenzie, but they were pacified by them with good words, addressing themselues to such as were of their acquaintance: then going about the lodgings and tents,The discretion of the Colonels to pacifie the m [...]ti­nie. euen vnto the Gene­rals seat and lodging, if they found any assembled together, they spake mildly vnto them, de­maunding the reason of their alteration, and blaming in some sort their actions. Their gene­rall excuse was, That they were not payed, and that they had beene carefull to punish them of Illiturgis for their wickednesse committed after the defeat of two armies, and of two great captaines, but not rewarded their desers, which after these misfortunes had maintained the honour of Rome, and preserued the countrey by their vertue and valour. The Tribunes or Colonels seemed to allow of their reasons; saying, That they would make report thereof vn­to Scipio, and that they were exceeding glad there was no harme, but that might be easily cured: that (thankes be to God) Scipio and the commonweale of Rome, had meanes both to content and reward them.

Scipio was better acquainted with warre than with ciuile seditions, so as he was somewhat troubled how he should carrie himselfe in this action, fearing that as the souldiours had done in their excesse, so he in punishing them might exceed measure: he therefore resolued to pro­ceed with mildnesse. There were collectors sent presently to the tributarie townes, to leuie money, giuing the souldiours hope by that meanes, that within few dayes they should be mu­stered and paied: and then he made a proclamation, That all the souldiours should come to new Carthage, to receiue their pay, either all together, or by companies apart. In the meane time the Spaniards which were rebelled, retired home to their houses, the which did wholly pacifie the sedition in the Romanes campe. Mandonius and Indibilis being aduertised, that Scipio was liuing, gaue ouer their enterprise, and were abandoned by all those that had fol­lowed them, finding not any one, neither Romane nor stranger, that would bee a companion of their follies.

There grew a question among the seditious, Whether they should go to Carthage or not, euerie one casting what was most safe and expedient for them: if they must needs goe, whe­ther they should goe all together, or in companies one after another: in the end they resol­ued, [Page 70] that their best course was to submit themselues vnto Scipioes mercie; saying,The mutinous souldiors resolue to submit them­selues to Scipioes mercie. That he had pardoned enemies, and that their offence was none of the greatest, for there had not beene a­ny man slaine nor wounded: And for the safest, they should goe all together. Whilest they consulted what they should doe, they also resolued at Carthage, how they should intreat them: Some were of opinion to punish them all in generall; saying, That it was a meere re­bellion, and no sedition: others aduised to punish the authors onely, which might bee some fiue and thirtie in all. This aduice was followed, that the punishment should end whereas the offence began. And to the end they should not thinke this counsell was held to punish the seditious, as soone as euer they came forth, a proclamation was made, That euerie one should haue his horse and armes readie to march against Mandonius and Indibilis, and that they should giue order to haue victuals readie for certaine dayes, and to make other prepara­tions for the armie, which should march.

The seuen Tribunes which had beene sent to the mutined souldiours, and who had pacified them with good words, were sent againe to meet them; to either of which was giuen a note, in the which were written fiue names of the authors of this disorder, with commaundement, That being among them, either of them should seeke to draw them that were in his roll into his lodging, and there make them good cheere, and to drinke of the best vntill they were drunke, and then to put them into safe keeping, without any brute. These troupes approa­ched to new Carthage, and vnderstood by all those they met, that the next day they should march against the Lucetanes, vnder the conduct of Syllanus and Lelius: the which did great­ly rejoyce them, not onely freeing their hearts from feare, but also persuading themselues,The heads of the seditious are pu­nished for the multitude. that by that meanes their Generall should rather be in their power, than they in his. About Sunne set they entred into the towne, finding the other souldiours preparing themselues to march. They were entertained with words fit for the businesse which was in hand; That their comming was pleasing vnto the Generall, the other armie being readie to march, with such like words. They lodged and refreshed themselues, and the heads of the mutines were drawne by a deuice into certaine houses, where they were taken and bound. A little before day the baggage of the armie which they made shew should dislodge, began to march, and at the breake of day the companies followed: but they stayed at the gates, whereas they set good gards, that no souldiour might goe out of the towne. Then they called these souldiors newly come, to the assemblie, who came before the Generals Tribunall with great arrogan­cie, as if they would haue terrified him. Then the Generall went vp to his seat of justice, and at the same time the companies which were in armes at the gates, were called backe, who compassed them in behind, they being vnarmed: then their hearts began to faint, and that which did most amaze them (as they confessed afterward) was the vigorous countenance of Scipio, whom they expected to find leane and pale. Hauing continued there some space with­out any word speaking, vntill the chiefe offendours were brought vnto the place; they be­ing come, he began to reprehend them sharpely, for that contrarie to their dueties and the naturall bond they had vnto their countrey, and against the oath made vnto their commaun­ders, they had shewed themselues rebels, disobedient, perjured, and enemies both in word and deed: hauing followed men that were not well borne, nor esteemed for any vertue, but rascals, to whom they had giuen full power and commaund ouer them, such as Atrius Vm­ber, and Calenus Albius. I do not thinke that you haue all runne willingly into this furie, Scipio makes a notable inue­ctiue against the seditious soul­diors. but that some were the motiues and beginners, and the rest were infected by their acquaintance, as with the plague: when I consider that the brute of my death hath beene receiued, beleeued, and hoped for a­mong my souldiours; who haue so carried my selfe, as I need not feare that any one in Spaine (the Car­thaginians being chased away) should hate my life, no not our enemies themselues. I beleeue then, that our whole armie is not so ill affected, but if it were so, I would willingly dye here in your presence: I beleeue rather, that this mischiefe hath proceeded from the malice of some few. But I will forbeare to speake of my selfe, and suppose you haue my name in detestation, and disdaine my commaund: thinke of your offences, and consider how great they are against your countrey, your parents and children, a­gainst the gods, witnesses of your oathes and promises, against your commaunders and captaines, a­gainst all order and martiall discipline, and against the manners of your auncestors. What offence had your countrey done you, that you should take armes against it, and betray it, in conferring your [Page 71] counsels with Mandonius and Indibilis. What had the commonweale of Rome committed, whose maiestie you haue troden vnder foot, wresting the authoritie out of the Tribunes hands, who were created by the peoples voyces, to giue it vnto priuat men? and not content to haue them for Tribunes, you haue giuen them the markes of a Generall, to them I say, who neuer yet commaunded ouer a poore slaue. Albius and Atrius haue beene lodged in the Generals tent, by you Romanes, the trumpet hath sounded before them, they haue giuen you the word, they haue set in the Proconsull Scipioes chayre, they haue had an officer to make place, when as they had the rods and axes carried before them. What more monstrous and detestable crimes can you imagine? the which in trueth cannot bee purged, but by the bloud of such as haue committed them. But what frenzie made you presume, being but eight thousand men (better without doubt than Albius and Atrius, to whom you haue subiected your selues) to be able to take the prouince of Spaine from the Romanes by force, I being dead or aliue, the rest of the Romane forces being safe, with the which I haue in one day taken new Carthage by assault, defeated foure great captaines, and chased foure Carthaginian armies out of Spaine? Thinke you that the greatnesse and strength of the Romane commonweale consists in the life or death of any captaine whatsoeuer? What am I more than Flaminius, Paulus, Gracchus, Posthumus, Albinus, M. Marcellus, T. Crispinus, C. Fuluius, the two of our house, and so many other braue and valiant captaines which haue died in this warre, and yet the people of Rome stand firme, and would still, al­though there should dye a thousand more, either by sword or sicknesse? much lesse can the Romane state shrinke or decay by my death. After that my father and vncle (who were your captaines) had beene slaine in these countries, you your selues did chuse L. Septimius Martius to bee your head a­gainst the pride and insolencie of the Carthaginians (I speake of him as if Spaine wanted other captaines.) M. Syllanus, is not he here also, with equall authoritie to myselfe? L. Scipio my bro­ther, and C. Lelius, lieutenants, are not they here also? Would not these men haue maintained and defended the maiestie of the Romane Empire? What comparison can you make betwixt the ar­mies, the commaunders, and the causes? And admit you had all aduantages, should you there­fore take armes against your countrey and fellow citizens, renounce the countrey which hath bred you, with your wiues and children, to adhere vnto the enemie, and to chuse your abode at Succron? And what was the reason? for that your pay was a little protracted, by reason of your Generals sickenesse? O worthie cause to make you violate all diuine and humane lawes! O Romanes, you haue wonderfully erred, beleeue me, you haue lost all reason and iudgement, and the infirmitie of your minds hath beene worse than that which afflicted my bodie. My words seeme sharpe vnto you, but your actions haue beene farre more sharpe: which if you repent, I desire there should bee no more mention made of them, but remaine buried in forgetfulnesse, holding the repentance of such detestable acts, to bee a sufficient chastisement, for as much as concernes you all in ge­nerall. But as for Albius Calenus, Atrius Vmber, and others which haue beene the authors of this wicked sedition, they shall expiate their follies with their bloud: the which should not be dis­pleasing vnto you, but rather desired and applauded, seeing they sought to ruine you, and haue offended none more than you.

In this manner Scipio spake vnto the seditious souldiours, and presently execution was done of these fiue and thirtie men, with horrour and great feare to all the rest of the offen­dors: For the armed souldiours which stood about the assembly, began to beat their tar­guets, the names of them that were condemned, were openly pronounced by the crier,The punishm [...] of the chiefe offendors. they were drawne naked, tied to posts, vnto the place, beaten and torne with rods, and then beheaded, all the assistants being so amazed with feare, as there was not a sigh heard among them. The bodies being carried away, and the place cleansed, after the accustomed manner, Scipio made the souldiours to take a new oathe, and they were paied what was due vnto them, calling them by name one after another. This was the end of the mutinie and sedition made at Succron, vertuously and yet mildly chastised by Scipio, Sedition is a mischiefe which doth much im­port estates. considering the qua­litie of the crime, which was of such consequence for great estates, as many haue not spared innocents themselues, to terrifie others.

At the same time Hanno had bin sent by Mago to the mouth of Betis (which is now Guadal­quiber) with a small number of Africanes, who gathered together some 4000 men vpon those marches: but he was charged by L. Martius, and forced in his campe, and most of his souldiors slain, some at the assault of his rampars, and the rest in the field, being pursued by the horsemen [Page 72] as they fled, and he with a small number saued himselfe. Whilest this was doing about that riuer, Lelius arriued with his sea armie at Carteia, hauing past the strait, at the entrie whereof this towne is situated in the Ocean.The practise of the Gaditans discouered and supprest. The Romanes thought they should haue meanes to surprise the towne of Gadiz by intelligence, as they had contriued it with some of the inha­bitants: but this busines was discouered before the execution; the complices were taken, and deliuered by Mago vnto the Praetor Adherbal, to be led to Carthage the great; who put the conspirators into a galeasse, and for that it was heauier and more slower than the gallies, he sent it a little before, & himselfe followed it with eight gallies. This galeasse was alreadie en­tred into the strait; when as Lelius discouering it out of the port of Carteia, put forth also with a galeasse, being followed by his seuen gallies, and assuring himselfe that the enemies galeasse carried by the current within that strait (being hard to force) could not turne backe, he went to affront Adherbal and his gallies.A fight at the sea betwixt Leli­us and Adherbal The Carthaginian seeing himselfe surprised, was doubtful whether he should flie after his galeasse, or else make head. Whilest he stands in suspence, Lelius commeth vpon him, and it was not in his power to auoid the combat. They were in a strait, whereas nothing could be done after the manner of sea-fights, by the iudge­ment of captaines and mariners: for the sea going high in that place, they could not turne their gallies at their pleasures, the which were carried by the waues as well against their own as against the enemies, notwithstanding all their endeuours; so that oftentimes they might haue seene a gallie flying turne her spurre suddenly against that which pursued her, by the turning of a waue, and that which chased her, to flie away. The gallies being in this strife, it happened, that the Roman galeasse (whether by her weight, or the number of her oares) mastring the waues better than the rest, forced two Carthaginian gallies, stemming the one, and disarming the other of all her oares of the one side, as she passed by her, and would in like manner haue endamaged the rest, if she had incountred them: but Adherbal with the helpe of his sailes and oares, recouered that coast of Affricke which was neerest. Lelius being victor, returned to Carteia, and informed of all that which had passed at Gadiz, how that their pra­ctise was discouered, and that the conspirators were sent to Carthage, he aduertised Marius, that it was labour lost to stay there, being more expedient to returne towards their Generall: which they did both within few daies after,Mago brother to Hannibal and Generall of the Carthaginians, hopes to recouer all Spaine. and came to new Carthage. Mago hearing of their departure, and freed from feare, did not only resume new courage, but was also in hope to re­couer all Spain by the rebellion of the Ilergetes; wherefore he sent presently to Carthage, to acquaint the Senate with the sedition which had lately happened in the Romanes campe, and the rebellion and reuolt of their allies, giuing them charge to make them greater than they were; persuading them, that it was now a fit time to recouer the Seigniorie of all Spaine, which they had receiued from their ancestors, and therefore they should send forces to do it.

As for Mandonius and Indibilis, who were gone to the field, vpon the brute of Scipios death, thinking to make vse of the Roman soldiors which were mutined, when as they vnderstood the truth of all things, they retired home to their houses without any alteration, attending what should be done vnto the seditious; presuming, that if Scipio pardoned his own soldiors, he might also vse the like clemencie towards them: but when as they vnderstood with what rigor he had punished them, they thought it was a presage for them to attend the like, for that they were guiltie of the same crime: wherfore they gathered their forces together, and caused their confederats to arme, meeting in the territorie of Sedera, where they had cam­ped in the beginning of their reuolt, being some 20000 foot and 2500 horse.Scipio prepares to goe against Mandonius and Indibili [...]. Scipio ha­uing easily pacified the discontentment of his soldiors, paying vnto euery man what was due vnto him, shewing them a good countenance, and vsing good words, to whom before his departure from Carthage, he made a speech in some bitter tearmes against the rebellion of these two noble men.

I goe not (said he) against these men to punish their ingratitude and wickednesse with the like affe­ction,Scipios speech to his soldiors. as when I did chastise the offences of our fellow citizens, for what I did then was very sparingly, as if I should haue torne out part of mine owne bowels; wherefore I was content to correct the error or the offence of 8000, by the punishment of 35 men: but now that I march with you to ruine the Iler­getes, to whom we are not tied neyther by birth nor friendship, seeing that league which was betwixt vs had bin wickedly broken and violated by them, I know that all you of mine armie are eyther Romanes or Latins: besides, there are few of you which haue not bin brought out of Italie hither by my vncle [Page 73] Cn. Scipio, who first brought a Romane armie into Spaine, or by Publius my father, or by me, and that you are all accustomed to the names and conduct of the Scipioes. Wherefore I desire to carrie you backe, that you may be partakers of the triumph, which we haue well deserued. As for this warre whither wee go, let vs not call it a war, if we will remember what we haue done in this country. I do more esteem Ma­go, who hath saued himselfe in an island (out of the world as a man may say) with a few ships, than of the Ilergetes. He is a Carthaginian captaine, and holds some forme of a garrison where he is, but these are theeues, and captaines of theeues, which are of no moment in a well gouerned warre, but onely to a­uerrun and spoyle their neighbours fields, carrie away their cattell, and set fire of their farmes: whose force and valour consists in flying swiftly, and not in fighting well. If I goe first against them, doe not thinke it is for any danger, or difficultie, or for any feare I haue that the war wil be long by their means, but onely to the end so wicked a rebellion should not remaine long vnpunished, nor to leaue any enemie in armes, if it be possible, in a prouince conquered with so great happinesse and valour as we haue done.

Then he exhorted them to follow him vnder the conduct of the gods, not to the wars, but to punish wicked men: injoyning them to be readie for the next day. Being parted, he made ten lodgings with his campe, before he came to the riuer of Ebro, which hauing passed the fourth day following, they presented themselues in sight of the enemie. Betwixt both was a large vally, compassed in with mountaines: there Scipio made some troupes of cattell which had beene taken in the enemies countrey, to be put, to draw them forth to fight, causing them to be kept with some souldiours which were lightly armed. The Spaniards fall vpon this boo­tie, and the Romane souldiours goe to rescue it. Hereupon Lelius arriues, being appointed to second these footmen, with some bands of horse, who arriued fitly, for the combat was doubt­full. The Spaniards were repulst by these succours with great slaughter, yet they fainted not for all this, but presented themselues the next day in order of battel, vpon the same place: and for that the vallie was not able to containe all their forces, they brought forth some two third parts of their foot, and all their horse. The Romans held the straitnesse of the place to bee an aduantage for them, for that their souldiours did fight better close than in an open field, who kept their rankes, and did not run vp and downe like vnto the Spaniards: besides, they saw that they should haue to deale but with two third parts of the enemies armie. And Scipio resolued of a stratagem: for seeing that he could not flanke his footmen with his horse, by reason of the straitnesse of the place, and that by the same reason, the enemies horse were also vnprofitable, he commaunded Lelius to lead all his horsemen about the hills, and to seeke some passage to charge the Spanish horsemen vpon the backe, and to draw them from their foot.A battell be­twixt the Ro­mans and natu­rall Spaniards. And to the end the enemie should not discouer what Lelius intended, he presently went against the ene­mie with his footmen, placing foure companies onely in front, for that he could not do other­wise: so the battell began in two seuerall places, betwixt two battailons of foot, and two of horse, whereas one could not succour another, till in the end the Spanish foot being put to rout, their horsemen being prest before by the legions, and behind by the Roman horse, were all presently slaine, so as of all the horse and foot which fought in the vallie, there escaped not any one. The other third part of the Spanish army, which came not to fight, but had only been spectators in a safe place, on the top of the hils, had all means to flie away; among whom there escaped Mandonius & Indibilis. The campe and all their baggage was taken, with 3000 priso­ners: and of the Romans there were slaine about 1200, & about 3000 hurt.The Spaniards defeated. There is no doubt, but they had gotten this victorie with lesse bloud, if the field had beene larger, and that the Spaniards might haue fled more easily.Mandonius and Indibilis yeeld to Scipiors mercy. After this rout, Indibilis resolued to lay aside armes, and as the safest way, to submit himselfe to Scipioes faith and clemencie, the which hee had tri­ed: and therefore he sent Mandonius his brother vnto him, who did prostrate himselfe at his feet, confessing their fault, which seemed (said he) to be as a fatall disease in that season: hauing not onely run among the Ilergetes and Lacetanes, but also infected the campe and Romane armie: finally, that both he and his brother were come thither, being readie either to yeeld vp their liues to Scipio (from whom they had receiued them) if it were his pleasure, or in taking them againe from him, to be for euer bound vnto him. It was an auntient custome with the Romanes, not to capitulate, nor to haue any peace with them with whom they had no ally­ance nor friendship, before they did yeeld into their hands whatsoeuer they held, were it ho­ly or prophane, giuen hostages, deliuered vp their armes, and receiued garrisons into their townes. Scipio was content to receiue Mandonius present, and Indibilis being absent at that [Page 74] time,Scipio pardons the rebellious Spaniards. with some bitter speeches giuing them to vnderstand, that they had deserued death: but they receiued their liues by the grace of the people of Rome. Moreouer, that hee would not disarme them, which was the assurance they did vsually take of rebels, but would they should hold them freely, and to be void from feare: but if they reuolted againe, they should know he would not be reuenged of innocent hostages, but vpon such as had offended, and that he would punish those that should present themselues in armes, and not the disarmed: Where­fore they should chuse, whether they would haue the Romanes fauourable vnto them, or in­censed against them. Thus was Mandonius sent away, without any other punishment than money, which they commaunded him to furnish to pay the armie. Scipio hauing sent L. Mar­tius before, to passe the riuer of Ebro, and Syllanus to Tarracone, he staied some time, vntil the Ilergetes had paid their money, and then he followed after Martius (who approached neere vnto the Ocean) with some few men, and no baggage.

25 The treatie begun with Massinissa had beene delaied for diuers reasons: for this Nu­midian would treat with Scipio himselfe, and make his promises to him. This made Scipio to vn­dertake a long voiage. Massinissa was in the island of Gades, where hauing intelligence by Ma­rius, that Scipio approached, he told the Gouernour Mago, That the horses and horsmen were spoiled in the island, where they caused a dearth of all things, to the hurt of others; desiring him to giue them leaue to passe into the firme land, to make some courses into the enemies countrey. Being past, he presently sent three of the chiefe among the Numidians to Scipio, two of the which should remaine for hostages, and the third returne to bring him notice of the day and place where the enteruiew should be;A parley be­twixt Massinis­sa and Scipio, to the preiudice of the Romans. where they met with a small companie. Massinissa first of all thanked Scipio, That he had sent him his nephew, his brothers sonne: then he said vnto him, That he had long desired to see that day, and that hee desired much to doe something that might be acceptable vnto him, and profitable to the Romans: wherein hee would imploy himselfe more willingly than any stranger whatsoeuer, the effects whereof he could not yet shew in Spain (a country vnknowne vnto him) but in place where he was borne and bred, hoping to succeed his father in the kingdome: and that if the Romanes did send Sci­pio into Africke, he did hope to worke so, as the estate of Carthage should not stand long. Mas­sinissa was welcome vnto Scipio, who heard his words with great content, knowing that what­soeuer had beene valiantly performed in Spaine by the horsemen, was done vnder the onely leading of Massinissa, who shewed by his carriage and countenance, that he was a yong prince of great hope. So hauing plighted their faith one vnto another, they parted, Scipio towards Tarracone, and Massinissa to Gades: and to the end hee would not seeme to haue passed in­to the firme land in vaine, he spoyled some of the neighbour countrey, neere the shore, with Scipioes consent.

26 Mago being made frustrat of his conceiued hope, to repaire the Carthaginians affairs in Spaine, by the Spaniards rebellion, vnder Mandonius and Indibilis, and the sedition of the Romane souldiours, resolued to goe into Africke, when as being readie to depart, he receiued order from the Senat of Carthage, by the which he was commaunded to passe with all the shipping he had at Calis,Mag [...], Hanni­bals brother, commaunded to passe into Italy. into Italie, and to leuie all the souldiours he could in Gaule, and a­long the sea coast, and to joyne with his brother Hannibal, to the end the warre which had bin begun with such animositie, might be continued with the like resolution. For the effecting whereof they brought money from Carthage, and he for his part got all hee could from the Gaditanes,Mago spoils the Gaditanes. hauing not onely exhausted their common treasure, but vnfurnished their tem­ples of their jewels and other riches, and forced euerie priuat man to bring him all the gold and siluer he had. As he passed along the coast of Spaine, comming neere vnto new Carthage he landed some souldiours, which forraged the countrey neere vnto the sea, and gaue an al­arme vnto the whole prouince. Then he approached neere vnto the towne, and hauing kept his souldiours aboord the gallies in the day time, at night he put them on shore, towards that part of the wall whereas the Romanes had entred; supposing that Carthage had not been ve­rie well manned with souldiours, and that haply some of the inhabitants might reuolt: but the flight of the countrey-men, and the centinels (which had discouered the armie at sea the day before) had alreadie giuen aduertisement to the town, who imagined that it was notwith­out some designe, that the gallies had cast anker so neere vnto them. Wherefore the garri­son kept themselues in armes, and stood readie at the port next vnto the poole, and towards [Page 75] the sea.Mago makes a vaine attempt vpon new Car­thage. The enemies came in troupes mixt of souldiours and mariners, vnto the foot of the wall, with more brute than effect: and then the port was set open, whereas the Romans made a furious [...]allie vpon them, with great cries, wherewith they were so amazed, as at the first charge, they turned their backes in disorder towards the sea, whither they were pursued with great slaughter: and if their gallies had not beene verie neere to receiue them, there had not any one escaped. Hauing gotten aboord, they were not yet assured, but feared that some of the enemies gallies would come out of the port against them: wherefore they drew vp their ladders and bridges speedily, and for that they would loose no time in weighing their ankers, they cut their cables. And it happened, that many thinking to saue themselues by swimming, not able to discerne their gallies, by reason of the darkenesse of the night, went out of their way, and were drowned. This armie returned speedily towards the Ocean, from whence they had parted. Day being come, the Romanes found aboue 800 men slaine, betwixt the towne and the shore, and aboue two thousand cuirasses. To Mago (who thought to returne vnto Gades) the entrie was refused: wherefore he returned vnto a place neere vnto it, called Cimbis, from whence he sent certaine gentlemen vnto Gades, to know the reason why they shut the gates against him, who was their friend and allie. To whom they answered, That it had beene done by the multitude, who had beene discontented at the spoiles and insolencies which the souldiours committed, when they imbarqued. Then he sought to draw their Suf­fetes out of the towne (which were those that held the soueraign magistracie in that Phenici­an nation) to parley with them,Suffetes, Magi­strats of the Ga­ditanes. and with their chiefe treasurer. When he had them, hee cau­sed them to be scourged with rods,Magoes tyran­nous rigour a­gainst the Gadi­tanes. and then to be hung vpon a gibet. Which done, he sayled towards the Pytiuses (being islands some hundred miles from the firme land, and inhabited at that time by Carthaginians) where both he and his whole armie were well entertained, the which was not onely refreshed with victuals, but furnished with souldiors and armes by those islanders. Mago relying vpon these things, came vnto the Baleares, some fiftie miles from thence, thinking to winter in the greater of them, the which was rich, and full of men, with a large and safe port; for now Autumne drew neere: But he found himselfe deceiued: for the inhabitants of Majorca went in hostile manner against him, no lesse than the Romanes would haue done, and with their slings kept them from landing, so as the Carthaginians were forced to put out to sea, & went to Minorca, which is the other island of the Baleares, as fertile as the other, but not so strong of men. There they landed, and without any great resistance became masters of the towne and island: where they inrolled two thousand men of that nation, the which they sent to Carthage to winter. When as Mago had left the Ocean,The Gaditanes yeeld vnto the Romans. to enter into the strait, the Gaditanes yeelded vnto the Romans.

These were the affaires which passed in Spain, vnder the gouernment of P. Corn. Scipio, who hauing resigned the prouince and the armies vnto L. Lentulus, and L. Manlius Acidinus, retur­ned to Rome with ten gallies:Scipio returnes to Rome. where being arriued, he made known vnto the Senat the great exploits of warre which he had done, the battels woon, the townes taken, and the people and countries subdued vnder the obedience of the Romans; finally, that in Spaine he had left no enemie. These things were deliuered by him with great state, rather to see if they would grant him a triumphant entrie into the citie, than to demaund a triumph: For in truth, vnto that day there had not any captaine entred in triumph into the citie of Rome, how great soeuer his ex­ploits had beene, if it were not with the title of a Roman magistrat. Being entred into Rome,Proconsuls no magistrats in Rome. he brought into the publique treasurie, of the remainders of the spoyle of Spaine, 14352 pounds of siluer in masse, and great store of coined money.

THE THIRD BOOKE OF the Historie of Spaine.

• 1 A Discourse of the disposition of the auntient Spaniards, and the factions that were among them after the departure of P. Com. Scipio.
• 2 A new reuolt of Mandonius and Indibilis against the Romane Proconsuls: their defeat and pu­nishment.
• 3 The Saguntines obedience to the Romanes, and their fauour to them.
• 4 Couetousnesse of the Romane Gouernours in Spaine, and the great spoyles they carried to Rome.
• 5 Spaine diuided into two gouernments, otherwise than before.
• 6 Warre betwixt the Romanes and Spaniards alone.
• 7 M. Portius Cato sent into Spaine with an armie. His exploits and militarie stratagems.
• 8 The good gouernment of P. Corn. Scipio, sonne to Cn. Propretor, in the further prouince, and the vnfortunat successe of Sex. Digitius.
• 9 Exploits of C. Flaminius, and M. Fuluius, Pretors in Spaine.
• 10 The deeds of L. Emilius, Pretor in the further Spaine.
• 11 The exploits of L. Quintius Crispinus, and Caius Calphurnius Piso, Pretors.
• 12 Victorie of Q. Fuluius Flaccus, in the hither Spaine.
• 13 The deeds of Titus Semp. Gracchus, and L. Posthumius Albinus.
• 14 Accusation against the corruption of Gouernours, and the bad iustice done at Rome.
• 15 Reuolt of the Celtiberians, and the exploits of Q. Fuluius Nobilior.
• 16 Deeds of Marcus Marcellus, Consull in Spaine.
• 17 L. Lucullus Consul, and his couetous disloyalties in Spaine.
• 18 Mumius against Caesaras a captaine of the Lusitanians.
• 19 The wickednesse of Serg. Galba, Pretor in the further prouince, which made Viriatus take armes.
• 20 Defeat of C. Vetilius by Viriatus.
• 21 Defeat of C. Plautius by Viriatus.
• 22 Victorie of Viriatus against Cl. Vnimanus.
• 23 C. Nigidius put to rout by Viriatus.
• 24 The deeds of C. Lelius against Viriatus.
• 25 The exploits of Q. Fab. Maximus Emilyen, in this warre of Viriatus.
• 26 The deed of Quintius.
• 27 The deeds of Q. Fabius Maximus Seruilianus, against Viriatus.
• 28 The exploits of Q. Cecilius Metellus, in Celtiberia.
• 29 A peace made with Viriatus.
• 30 Peace broken with Viriatus by Q. Cepio, and his death by the treason of his owne men.

[Page 77] THe 14 yere of the second Punick war, which, according vnto the most certaine writers, was in the yeare 548 of the foundation of Rome, P. Corn. Scipio and P. Licinius Crassus were chosen Consuls. During their magistracie there grew a great war in Spaine; and from that time the Roman affaires were nothing more quiet, notwithstanding they had chased away the Carthaginians: For the Spaniards, who are natural­ly enemies to rest,Concord the ground of liberty and desirous of libertie, and yet contemning the onely meanes to maintaine it, which is, concord and good correspondencie, did mutine vpon euerie light occasion. If they had beene as wise in that point, as they were valiant and hardie in combats, the Romanes had laboured in vaine to subdue this countrey, where they imploy­ed much time, much policie, and the bloud of their best men. Vntill Scipioes departure, & some time after, the Romanes had not tried the nations dwelling in the mountaines, which runne through the middest of Spaine, nor those which were towards the North: they had not yet extended their conquests farre from the Mediterranean sea, nor gone much beyond the riuer of Betis. But afterwards they knew what difference there was among the Spaniards them­selues, when as they were mercinaries, and carried armes for anothers quarell, and when they fought for their owne liberties, houses, and families. And as they past farther into the country, they found the difference betwixt those who by their frequentation with strangers, had accu­stomed themselues to gaine, and to hunt after honours and delights: and the others, who be­ing estranged from all commerce, had no other ambition, but not to be subject to any other but to their own lawes; nor other couetousnesse, but of a prey conquered by arms, in the day time, and in fight, thrust on by necessitie, without any other respect. These last for the most part were of the race of the auntient Gaules and Celtes, which had crept into Spaine, and did hold all that which we call at this day Nauarre, Biscaye, Alaua, the Asturians, Gallicia, Castil­lia the old, and a great part of Portugall. All these did not know the Romanes, but as men which laboured to take away other mens goods, to chase them out of their countries, or to subject them as slaues, and to make their profit of them. They were long before they made a­ny alliances with them, louing them better farre off than neere. In the meane time all these people of Spaine (who generally were couragious and hardie) wanted ciuilitie, and the knowledge of justice, neither knew they how to practise and entertaine the lawes of friend­ship among themselues: the which at length reduced them all into seruitude, they of whom wee haue spoken, being the first which yeelded vnto the yoke, who had seene the Cartha­ginians and Romanes among them, and had conuersed with them for some yeares. For be­sides that they were before a mixt people,Whereas stran­gers abord, there vice and corruption a­bounds. by the accesse of Grecians, Phenicians, Afri­canes, Celtes, and other nations, whose vices they had mingled with theirs, they were in the end wholly corrupted, by the promises and persuasions of either of these mightie com­monweales, either of them seeking to draw aid and commoditie from them against the other, during the warres; whereof they were glorious, proud, and ambitious, and if they were not held in such estimation, as they thought they had deserued, they were discontented. They were false and treacherous to strangers,The Spaniards were glorious, ambitious, enui­ous and trea­cherous. enuious among themselues, and alwayes apt to rebell, and to breed quarels: of which vices the Romanes (seeing themselues freed from the Carthaginian warre) could wisely make vse to subject them, who let them know, that notwithstanding all their seeking of the Spaniards, and the fauours and gifts wherewith they had honoured some of that nation, yet their meaning was alwayes to hold them in the ranke of subjects, and not of companions: the which their foolish Spanish presumption could not discerne, vntill they were taught it to their cost: as it happened to Mandonius and Indibilis, princes of the Ilergetes, people of Cattelonia, where as Lerida and Huesca are at this day.

These people being puft vp with pride, and full of ingratitude (as soone as they did see Sci­pio out of Spaine, thinking there was not his like among the Romanes) in contempt of them which remained,The last rebelli­on of Mandoni­us and Indibilis. they brake the peace, the which they had entertained onely through feare, and admiration of his vertue: and knowing that the Romans were much troubled in Italy a­gainst Hannibal, they presumed they would send him no more backe into Spaine, and that he had carried away the best men with him, leauing onely new souldiors in Spaine, and those that were of least vse for the warres. Wherefore thinking there could not be a better oppor­tunitie [Page 78] offered to effect their desires, and to make themselues kings of the other people of Spaine, which vnto that time had beene subject, sometimes to the Carthaginians, and some­times to the Romans, and oftentimes to both; they acquainted their subjects, and the Ause­tanes their neighbours, with their designe: vaunting, That if they maintained themselues in vnitie, they might easily expell the Romans out of Spaine, as well as they had chased away the Carthaginians: With whom they preuailed so by their persuasions, as in few dayes they had gathered together in the fields of Sedete 30000 foot,A great army of Spaniards a­gainst the Ro­manes. and 4000 horse, and there made the bodie of their army. The leaders of the Roman army, were L. Lentulus and L. Manlius, who be­ing aduertised of this reuolt, meaning to preuent this mischiefe in time, went speedily to field, and passing quietly through the Ausetanes countrey, as friends, they came whereas the ene­mies were, and encamped within a league of them. There they tried first by messages and embassages, to diuert them from their foolish enterprise, persuading them to lay aside armes: but it was in vaine. Some forragers of the Romanes being charged by the Spanish horse, they were forced to send some troups of horse to succour them, where there was an encounter that day, but to no effect. The day following, at the Sunne rising, the Spanish armie aduanced in battel, within a mile of the Romane campe. The Ausetanes held the middest, hauing the Iler­getes on the right hand, and on the left some other Spaniards of small fame. They had left be­twixt the battailon in the middest and the two wings, a good large space, to giue passage to their horsemen, when it should be time to come to the charge. The Romanes ordered their armie after their accustomed manner,A battell be­twixt the Ro­mans and Spa­niards. yet imitating the enemies therein, they left a space also to bring in their horsemen. This done, L. Lentulus bethought himselfe, that they should make best vse of those horsemen which should enter with them first into these spaces which were betwixt the squadrons of the enemies foot: Wherefore he commaunded Ser. Cornelius, who had charge of the Romane horsemen, to enter into those spaces of the Spanish armie. In the meane time he hauing the twelft legion, being prest in the beginning of the battell by the Ilergetes, on the left hand, made it good vntill they were seconded by the thirteenth legion, the which he caused to aduance, to succour them in the front of the battell: and hauing thus assured that part, he ran towards L. Manlius, who did his duetie, encouraging the souldiours, and sending supplies where he saw any need; aduertising him, that the footmen on the left wing behaued themselues well, and that hee had sent Ser. Cornelius with the horsemen, to charge furiously into the enemies troups: the effect whereof did presently appeare: for Ser. Cornelius being entred with his horse into the middest of the enemies, he made all their battel of foot to wauer, and withall stopt the passage to the enemies horse, so as they could not come to fight: which made the Spanish horsemen to leaue their horses. The Romane cap­taines seeing the Spaniards in some disorder, they cried out, incouraged, and intreated the sol­diours to proceed valiantly, and to keepe them from joyning together againe. The enemies began now to forsake the fight, if Indibilis leauing his horse, had not come and presented himselfe in the head of the footmen. There was a long and bloudie fight, the which they maintained, vntill that Indibilis and those that fought about him, were ouerthrowne and slaine one vpon another:The Spanish ar­my defeated. then they began to flie of all hands, and the Romans to pursue them, of whom they made a great slaughter, and withall tooke their campe, and all their baggage. There were 13000 slaine vpon the place, and about 800 prisoners. Of the Romans there di­ed two hundred, or not many more, especially on the left wing. The Spaniards being thus de­feated, the rest which escaped retired home into their countrey.

The Spaniards being afterwards called to counsell by Mandonius, they complained much of their losses, and blaming the authors of this warre, they said, That they were of opinion to send embassadors vnto the Romans, to beseech them to take them to mercie, and that they would deliuer them their armes:The Spaniards sue to the Ro­mans for mercie. the which they did, and excused themselues, laying the fault vpon Indibilis, Mandonius, and others, which had solicited them. To whom the Romanes an­swered, That they would take them to mercie, vpon condition they should deliuer vnto them the authors of this rebellion aliue, else they would intreat the Ausetanes, Ilergetes, and o­ther their confederats, as enemies.

This answer being returned by their embassadours,The chiefe au­thors of rebellion do alwaies smart for the rest. Mandonius and the other authors were taken, and sent to the Romanes to receiue the reward of their misdeeds. By this meanes the troubles in Spaine were pacified, whereas they imposed a double tribute for that yeare, and a [Page 79] contribution of corne for six moneths, with cassockes and cloakes for the souldiors: besides, the Romanes forced about thirtie seuerall prouinces to giue hostages.

These things were done in Spaine, whilest that P. Scipio prepared to goe into Africke, to di­uert the warre which was betwixt the Romanes and Carthaginians in Italie, whither he had sent C. Lelius, Mago on the other side being arriued at Genes in Italie, and vpon the coast of the Ligusticke sea.

3 The Saguntines (for whose sake this second Punicke warre betwixt the Romanes and Carthaginians had beene vndertaken) had sent embassadours to Rome with Scipio, The Saguntines send embassa­dors to Rome. to thanke the Senate for the care they had of their faithfull allies, to protest of the loue and affection the Commonweale of Sagunt had to the people of Rome, and to offer a crowne of gold to Iupiter Capitolinus his Temple; who were honourably entertained, and rewarded by the Senat: who hauing a desire to see Italie, were by a publicke decree conducted and accompanied with a good gard wheresoeuer they would goe.

Some moneths after, Hannibal being out of Italie, the same Saguntines surprised in Spaine certaine Commissaries and Carthaginian captaines, with a good summe of money, where­with they would haue leuied souldiors in that countrey, whom they sent to Rome with their money, and presented them to the Senate. The Commissaries and captaines were detained prisoners, but the mony was restored to the Saguntines, with thanks by the Senat: the summe was 250 pounds of gold, and 800 of siluer.

The Spaniards were so entreated vnder the gouernment of L. Lentulus and L. Manlius, as of the goods and reuenues of Spaine both Rome and Italie were often relieued, with come, ap­parrell, armes, and all other prouisions which they drew from thence. In the end, the Ro­manes hauing forced the Carthaginians to demaund a peace, after the defeat which Scipio had giuen vnto Hannibal in Africke, and neere vnto Carthage, it was resolued in the Senat at Rome, to call home the old souldiors which were in Spaine, to leaue onely a Legion of Ro­manes, with fifteene companies of Latines their allies, and to send a new Gouernour thither. Wherefore L. Corn. Lentulus returned to Rome:Ann. Rome 553 where hauing related what he had valiantly and profitably performed, he demaunded leaue to enter the citie in triumph; the which they refused him, being against the presidents of their auncestors: for whosoeuer had the conduct of an armie,Dictators, Con­suls, and Prae­tors were allow­ed to triumph. being no Dictator, Consul, nor Praetor, but onely holding the place of a Consul or Praetor, did not enter in triumph into the citie: yet for that the exploits done by him were great and worthie, they were content he should enter so in a sort; which was not altogether so stately and pompeous as a triumph;Ouatio. the which in their language they called Ouatio. Hee brought into the Treasurie 44000 pound weight of siluer, and 2450 pounds of gold, and of the bootie there was giuen to euery souldiour 120 Asses, which make about a crowne and a fifth part, besides their ordinarie pay. This was during the Consulship of Ser. Sulpitius Galba and C. Aurelius Cotta: but the yeare following L. Corn. Lentulus was created Consull, with P. Iulius Apulus, or P. Villius Tapulus; and in his place C. Corn. Cethegus was sent into Spaine, who gaue a great defeat vnto the Spaniards in the fields of Sedeta, where there were about 15000 of the enemies slaine,A great defeat of Spaniards. and 78 ensignes taken. Cethegus and Manlius being afterwards called backe to Rome, the people sent in their place Cn. Corn. Lentulus and L. Stertinius. The Senat graunted to the Gaditanes (besides the conuentions which they had made with L. Martius Septimius) That they should haue no Gouernour. L. Manlius Acidinus being returned out of Spaine, demaunded of the Senate (for that he had well and vertuously gouerned the affaires) That he might enter into the Senate with the solemnitie called Ouatio: but hee was hindered by M. Portius Lecca, Tribune of the people, who opposed himselfe, for that he had not beene in that gouernment in qualitie of a Magistrate, but as a Vice-gerent, being lesse fauoured therein than Lentulus his companion: wherefore he made no entrie: yet he brought in 1200 pounds of siluer, and some 30 of gold. Soone after C. Corn. Lentulus returned from Spaine, bringing also vnto the publicke treasure 1515 pounds of gold, 20000 of siluer, and 3455 deniers of siluer coyned. L. Stertinius being also returned, brought 50000 pounds of siluer out of the farther Spaine, and of the spoyles he caused two arches to be made in the Oxe market before the Temples of Fortune and of the goddesse Matuta; and one in the great 4 Lists, vpon the which he set Images gilt. So as these Romanes made sharpe warres against [Page 78] [...] [Page 79] [...] [Page 80] the men,The Roman Go­uernours great exactors. but more against their purses; by reason whereof the inconstant nature of the Spa­niards was now very wauering.

C. Corn. Cethegus and Quin. Minutius Rufus being Consuls at Rome,Ann. Rome 556 Spaine hauing vntill 5 that time beene but one Consularie Prouince, gouerned by two Pro-consuls, was diuided in­to two gouernments,The gouernment of Spaine giuen to two Praetors. and two Pretors sent thither, who had charge to make a diuision of their jurisdictions, whereof the one should be called the hither Spaine, and the other the farther: but not as before, when as the riuer of Ebro made the limit, for the hither Spaine passed much beyond it. C. Sempronius Tuditanus was sent into the hither Spaine, and Marc. Heluius into the other, for Pretors. Both of them were intangled with great and doubtfull warres: for a­gainst Heluius there did rise Colca and Lucinius, The Spaniards rise against Heluius the Praetor. great noblemen of Spaine, who conspired with many good townes, as Cardona, Bardona, and many others vpon the sea coast, which had not yet reuolted. As for C. Sempronius Tuditanus, hee was defeated in his gouernment, and so wounded, as he died soone after.

Wherefore L. Furius Purpureo and M. Claud. Marcellus being created Consuls, Qu. Fabius Buteo and Q. Minutius Thermus were sent Pretors into Spaine, either of them with a legion of Romane souldiors, and foure thousand foot and three hundred horse, Latines, of their al­lies. Thus the warre reuiued in Spaine the fifth yeare, after the end of the second Punicke warre; and from that time the Romanes had to deale with the Spaniards alone, without any 6 support of the Carthaginians. The danger of this warre was so apprehended by the Se­nate, that one of the two Consuls, with a Consular armie of two legions, fiue thousand foot and fiue hundred horse of their allies, Latines, should goe in person with twentie gal­lies, and such a number of other vessels, as should bee fit to transport his armie. L. Valerius Flaccus and M. Portius Cato were created Consuls:Ann [...] 558. Spaine was allotted vnto Cato, to whom P. Manlius was appointed as Pretor in the hither part of Spaine neere vnto Gaule,M. Portius Cato Consul sent into Spaine. and Appius Claudius Nero in the further Spaine. To these Pretors were appointed (besides the legion 7 which either of the Gouernours in Spaine then had) two thousand foot and two hundred horse, newly leuied.

Whilest these things were preparing, Q. Minutius Thermus came to battaile with Budares and Besasides, two commanders of the Spaniards, neere vnto Turbe, where he defeated them, and slew about twelue thousand of their men,The Spaniards defeated by Qu. Minutius Thermus. tooke Budares prisoner, and put the rest in rout. These newes did somewhat reuiue the people of Rome, who were mightily perplexed for these warres of Spaine. M. Portius Cato being Consull, passed into Spaine the sixt yeare after the peace made betwixt the Romans and the Carthaginians, to reduce that Prouince wholly vnto the obedience of the people of Rome: wherein his seuere carriage did much auaile: for mildnesse is not alwaies fit for all nations, nor for all diseases. He embarked his armie in the riuer of Genes, whither he had drawne fiue and twentie ships of warre, whereof there were twentie of the state of Rome, and fiue of their allies, with a great number of others. They ar­riued safely at Rosas, then called Rhoda, at the foot of the Pyrenees, where they chased away a garrison of Spaniards which held the castle. From thence he passed to Empurias, and there he landed his souldiors.A strange and enutious manner of liuing of the Empuritanes. At that time Empurias was a double towne, diuided with wals, the one inhabited by Grecians issued from Phocea (from whence also the Marsilians came) the o­ther by Spaniards. The Greeke towne was in a manner all in the sea, and was not much aboue foure hundred paces in circuit: the Spaniards habitation was much more, containing about three thousand paces; alwaies liuing in jealousie one of another, assured onely by their dili­gent gard, and continuall discipline of warre, as if the enemie had beene at their gates. The Grecians entertained no Spaniard within their wals, neither did they goe out rashly towards the land: the sea was free for all men. Amid these jealousies they receiued great commodi­ties one from another: for the Spaniards (who were very ignorant of nauigation) had many strange commodities from the Grecians, and did furnish them in exchange with the fruits of their countrey. This traffique was the cause that the Spaniards towne was open vnto the Grecians, who for their better safeties were allied vnto the Romanes, and maintained them­selues with as great loyaltie in their friendship, as the Marsilians themselues could doe, al­though they were not so mightie. The Consull Cato arriuing there, they receiued him with all the honour and bountie they could. He stayed there some time to discouer what forces [Page 81] the enemies might haue,Souldiors should be alwaies in action. and where they were; and for that hee would not spend the time in idlenesse, he caused his souldiors to be trained. Catoes arriuall was in haruest: wherefore he did forbid the purueyors and Commissaries to make any prouision of corne, but sent them backe to Rome, saying, That the warre could maintaine it selfe. Departing from Empurias,A sharpe begin­ning of the war. he put the enemies countrey to sacke by fire and sword, and filled all with terror.

At the same time M. Heluius meaning to retire out of base Spaine, which he had gouerned, being accompanied with 6000 men, which the Pretor Appius Claudius had giuen him for con­uoy, he was encountred by the way with 20000 Celtiberians, neere vnto the towne of Illi­turge (either that which Scipio had destroyed,A notable vi­ctorie gotten by the Pretor Heluius. being repaired, or another of that name) whom he did fight withall, and vanquish, and slew 12000 men: then he tooke Illiturge, where he put all the inhabitants aboue the age of 14 yeres to the sword: and from thence he came vnto Ca­toes campe: from whence hee afterwards passed to Rome; into the which he made a solemne entrie, with ouation, for that hee had gouerned his prouince happily. Hee brought 14732 pounds of siluer in masse, 17000 Bigats (which is a piece of coyne, stampt with a chariot drawn with two horses) and of the siluer of Osca 120438.Qu. Minutius Thermus trium­phed first at Rome for his vi­ctories in Spain. Presently after Heluius, Q. Minutius Ther­mus returned to Rome, who had the honour of a triumph; which was the first that was graun­ted, by reason of his victories in the wars of Spaine: he brought also into the Treasurie 34800 pounds of siluer, 78000 Bigats, and 278000 of Osca.

In the meane time the Consul Cato was not farre encamped from Empurias, whereas three embassadours came vnto him from Bilistages, Lord of the Ilergetes; among the which was one of his sons, complaining, That their castles were besieged by the other Spaniards, whom they could not resist, but with aid from the Romanes. That if it pleased him to send them fiue thousand men, it would be sufficient to force the enemie to retyre. The Consull answered, That he was moued with the danger wherein they were: but he had not at that time such for­ces, as he might with safetie send away so great a number, especially being not farre from the enemie, with whom he expected to fight euery day. The embassadours hearing these words, cast themselues at his feet, and embracing his knees, besought him, not to abandon them in their great necessitie, seeing the Romanes were the onely refuge they had in this world: they let him vnderstand, That if they would haue falsified their faith, and conspired with others that were reuolted, they might easily haue auoided that danger; but they would not doe it, al­though they had beene sollicited with threats and terrifyings, hoping, that the support of the Romanes should be their warrant: but if that should faile them, and that the Consull should refuse to aid and defend them, they did protest before God and men, That they should be for­ced to leaue the Romane partie, least they should fall into the miseries and calamities of them of Sagunt. That day Cato made them no other answer, yet he did not leaue to meditate there­on all night, to find some meanes to free the Ilergetes from this danger, and not to diminish his forces: for that would haue stayed him from fighting with the enemie, as he desired, or else in fighting he might be too weake and in danger. In the end he considered, that hypocrisie and dissembling in warre haue oftentimes auailed much, and that those which attend succors,Dissembling in warre doth of­ten import. being persuaded to haue them speedily, haue often vpon this hope taken courage, and grown so resolute, as they haue preserued themselues: Wherefore the next day he told the embas­sadours, That he was content for their sakes to incommodate himselfe, and that notwithstan­ding that he had great occasion to employ his souldiours, yet he would send them succours. Hereupon he commaunded they should take the third part of all the companies, and that they should prepare victuals and ships to embarke them the third day. Whereupon he sent away two of these embassadours, to carrie newes to Bilistages and the Ilergetes, retaining the third, who was sonne to Bilistages, making him good cheare, and honouring him with presents. The embassadours before their departure saw the troupes embarked, and being very well sa­tisfied, went away, making great bruit of these succours. The Consull thinking that he had made shew ynough, caused the souldiors to land againe, and to returne to the campe. And for that the season began to grow vnfit to make warre, he caused Winter lodgings to be made for the armie, within a myle of Empurias, from whence he sent the souldiors on euery side to spoyle the enemies countrey. Leauing a sufficient garrison in the campe, he made them goe forth in the night, that they might goe the farther without discouerie, and more easily surprise the Spaniards. In this manner he did exercise his new souldiours, and surprised many of the [Page 82] enemies, who durst no more goe out of their forts. Cato hauing by this meanes sufficiently tried the hearts both of his owne men and of the Spaniards, he called the Captaines, Knights, and Centeniers together,Catos speech to the captaines. and said vnto them: That it was now time to set their hands to the worke which they had so much desired, to shew their vertue by a battaile, and not by raunging and spoyling, as they had hitherto done, and that they must no more busie themselues with the prey of the champian countrey, but prepare themselues to enioy the riches of townes. The estate of the affaires in Spaine (said he) is reduced to that point, that whereas in the time of our predecessors, when as there was neither captaine nor armie for the Romanes in this region, they did capitulate, That their power and command should extend vnto the riuer of Ebro: and now when there is a Consull, two Pretors, and three Armies, and that the Carthaginians haue beene wholly excluded for these tenne yeares, wee haue not in a manner any thing on this side that riuer. We must then recouer it by our armes and valour, and reduce this nation (which hath beene accustomed to begin warre with more rashnesse, than to maintaine it vertuously) vnto the yoake, which they would shake of: wherefore goe and refresh your selues, and be readie to depart this night. Cato seekes to make his souldi­ors hardie by constraint, ta­king all places of retreat from them. About midnight he dislodged, that he might encampe at his plea­sure, before the enemie should haue any intelligence. So as taking a long circuit, he marched beyond the Spaniards armie; and when as day began to breake, he put his men in battaile, and sent three companies of foot vnto the rampier of their campe.

The Spaniards being amazed to see their enemies behind them, ran to armes: then the Consull said vnto his souldiors: There is now no more hope but in our valour, the which I haue done of purpose; for the enemie lyes mid way betwixt vs and our lodging: all that is behind vs is the ene­mies; wherefore there is no better safetie than to trust to our owne vertues. He then caused his com­panies which were gone to skirmish, to retyre, as if they would haue fled, that he might draw forth the enemie, as hee did: for the Spaniards (thinking that the Romanes had retyred for feare) left their campe, and came out armed, filling the place betwixt their trenches and the Romanes armie, and there put themselues confusedly and hastily into battaile: but the Con­sull gaue them no leisure, but caused certaine troupes of horsemen to aduance, who came and charged these Barbarians thus disordered: but the Romanes on the right hand were presently repulsed, and, retyring in hast, had almost put the footmen in rout. The Consull perceiuing this, he presently sent two bands of foot, who passing along the enemies right flanke, presen­ted themselues behind, before the battaillons of foot came to joyne: the which did so amaze the enemies, as the partie which before was doubtfull for the Romans, by reason of the disor­der of their horse, was now almost equall: yet both the horse and foot on the right wing were so troubled, as the Consull could hardly make them stand firme: yea, he was forced to take some by the hands, to turne them against the enemie. Whilest they did fight with their darts a farre off, the encounter was doubtfull: yea, the Romanes wauering on the right wing, could hardly be kept in order. On the left wing and in front the Spaniards were sorely prest, and besides, they feared those companies which came in the rere to charge them: but when they were approched, and so joyned, as no blow fell in vaine, and that there remained no hope but in their resolutions and valours, being come to the sword, and that Cato had refreshed his tyred men with new troupes,The Spaniards defeated by Cato. which charged the enemie like lightening, then were they for­ced and put to rout, so as they did what they could to saue themselues in their campe. Then Cato galloping to the second Legion, which he had reserued for succours, he caused them to aduaunce speedily towards the enemies campe, to force it, but with such order, as if any one aduaunced too fast, or went out of his ranke, he beat him into his order with a jaueline which he carried, commaunding the colonels and captaines to doe the like. Now did the Ro­man armie giue an assault vnto the enemies rampiers & palisadoes, who defended themselues valiantly, repulsing their enemies with stones, staues, and other arms: where a new Legion ar­riuing, the combat was more furious, both parties growing more couragious; the one through hope, the other through despaire. The Consull riding about the campe, obserued what part was worst manned, or weakliest defended: and finding that the gate on the left hand was but ill furnished with men, he sent some of the formost rankes of the second Legion thither, and such as carried long staues, who forced the gard which was at this gate, and entred into the campe. The Spaniards seeing the enemies within their trenches, leaue their armes and en­signes, flye out of their ports, and cast themselues ouer their rampiers, euery man seeking to saue himselfe, and one hindering another with hast, so as there was a great slaughter of [Page 83] them that fled,A great slaugh­ter of Spaniards. and their baggage was all taken. Some hold, that there died in this battaile fortie thousand Spaniards. There are three commendable things noted in Cato in this action: First, to take all hope of safetie from his souldiors, but by their armes and vertue, he had led them far from their campe and ships, betwixt the enemies campe and his countrey: Secondly, that he did send two companies behind the enemies armie, whilest that he charged them in front: and for the third, that he had reserued the second Legion behind the rest, and led them in good order to assayle the enemies campe, whilest that all the other troupes were disbanded and busie in fight.

After this great victorie, he gaue his souldiors no great rest: for being a little refreshed in their campe, he led them to spoyle the enemies countrey; the which they did ouerrun at their pleasures, for that they were all fled. This was the cause which made the Spaniards of Em­puria to yeeld, and many other people thereabouts. There were many inhabitants of other Cities and Communalties fled to Empuria, whom Cato caused to come before him, and courteously entreated them, commaunding to giue them meat and drinke, and then he sent them home to their houses. Soone after he marched with his armie towards Tarracone, and in all places where he passed, he met with the embassadours of townes, which yeelded vnto him; so as all Spaine on this side Ebro was reduced vnder the obedience of the people of Rome before he came to Tarracone: and from all places there were presented vnto him and freely giuen an infinite number of prisoners, Romanes, Latines, and other allies, which had beene taken by diuers accidents. The bruite was, That hee would lead his armie into Turditane, which is the furthest part of Spaine, towards the strait, and some sayd, That he would passe vnto the mountaines and places vnknowne.The Spaniards alwaies apt to rebell. Vpon this false bruit, there were seuen strong places in the countrey of the Bargistanes which rebelled, whom hee subdued without any great toyle, or memorable combate: but soone after the Consull being returned to Tarracone,Catos seueritie in the Spaniards relapse. they rebelled againe; so as hee leading his armie thither againe, subdued them: but they escaped not so good cheape as at the first; for he cau­sed them all to be sold for slaues by the drumme, to the end they should trouble the peace no more.

In the meane time the Pretor P. Manlius hauing receiued the armie from his predeces­sour Qu. Minutius, and being joyned with that which Appius Claudius Nero had in the far­ther Spaine, all old bands, he marched into the countrey of Turditania (the which is Anda­lousia) and the countrey adjoyning. The Turditanians were esteemed the worst warriours a­mong all the people of Spaine; yet trusting in their multitudes, they came to encounter the Romans: when the Romane horsemen disordered them at the first charge; then the Legions arriuing, they put them wholly to rout. But the war was not thus ended: for the Turditani­ans did entertaine in pay ten thousand Celtiberians, and continued to make warre with these mercinaries.

The Consull being incensed at the double rebellion of the Bargistanes, vsed his natu­rall rigor and seueritie against all the Spaniards which dwelt on this side the riuer of Ebro: for he disarmed them all, thinking, that if they were armed, they would vpon any occasion fall into rebellion. This was taken so disdainefully by these people, as many grew furi­ously mad, and slew themselues:The Spaniards esteemed not the life which passed without armes. A nation in truth fierce and warlike, who esteemed not that life which passed without armes: Whereof the Consull being aduertised, he cau­sed the Senatours of all the townes of that countrey to come vnto him, to whom he sayd: That what hee had done, was more for their profites, than any interest of the Romanes: For when they were to make warre, you know (said he) it was decided with more misfortune and losse for the Spaniards, than trouble or paine for the Romanes: Wherefore to preserue you hereafter from ruine, I thought there was but one onely meanes; which is, to keepe you from rebelling: Let vs then bethinke our selues of the mildest course, and giue me your aduice; beleeue me I will not willingly en­tertaine any, but what you shall giue. These Senatours demaunded time to aduise thereon: and being called againe, they answered not any thing. Whereupon the Consull caused all their townes to be demanteled in one day:Cato demantels the townes in Spaine. and from thence marched with his armie against their neighbours, which were yet in armes, whom he brought to obedience, namely, Segestica, a towne of great importance, and rich, the which he tooke by sappe. It was a greater diffi­cultie for Cato to subdue these people of Spaine, than it had beene for the first captaines [Page 84] which came thither for the Romanes, when the Carthaginians did rule there: for at that time if the Spaniards were wearie of the Carthaginians commaund, they had recourse vnto the Romanes: but Cato making warre against them, they had no other refuge, but from an vsur­ped libertie they must fall into slauerie. Finally, he found all this Prouince altered, some ha­uing taken armes, some being besieged by their neighbours, to force them to take armes; who (if they had not beene preuented in time) would haue also rebelled with the rest. This Con­sull had such an actiue spirit, as all things both great and small must passe through his hands, neither did he thinke it sufficient to resolue, discourse, and commaund that which he held fit to be done, but he himselfe did execute many things; neither was he more strict and seuere to any one in his commaundements, than to his owne person. There was not any one to be found in his armie, that did watch, fast, and toyle more than himselfe. Finally, he had no aduantage a­mong those that he commaunded, but the honour to commaund.

The Turditane warre grew more difficult to P. Manlius, by reason of the mercinarie Celti­berians: wherefore the Consull being called thither by letters from the Pretor, he marched with his armie. At his arriuall he found, that the Turditanes had their campe diuided from the Celtiberians:Cato seekes to corrupt the Celtiberians. being encamped, the Romans had continuall skirmishes and light encoun­ters with the Turditanes, who had alwaies the worst. As for the Celtiberians, he caused them to be solicited by the colonels and captaines of his armie, propounding vnto them the choice of three conditions: If they would turne vnto the Romanes, they should haue double the pay which the Turditanes had promised them: or if they would retyre to their houses with­out taking any partie, they promised them abolition of all which they had done: and for the third, if they desired warre, they should come to field, and present themselues in battaile. The Celtiberians demaunded respite to make answere, and then did communicate these propositi­ons in open Councell to the Turditanes; where there was great contention, but no conclusi­on: so as many daies passed without any assurance of peace or warre: during the which, the Romanes ouerrun the enemies countrey, and spoyled their townes, as if it had beene in open warre: oftentimes making priuat treaties and accords, they entred, went and came into their forts. The Consull Cato seeing that hee could not draw the enmie to battaile, hee first sent some troupes with their ensignes, to spoyle that part of the countrey where they had not yet beene: then hearing,Plinie makes mention of a Saguntia in the Betique Pro­uince, besides that which is now called Seguen [...]a. that the Celtiberians had all their baggage in the towne of Seguntia, he went thither to take it; and yet could hee not draw them out of their campe. In the end ha­uing mustered and payed his armie, he left all the forces with the Pretor, and returned with seuen bands (which made about 3500 men) towards the riuer of Ebro. With these few men he tooke townes, and forced obedience from the Sedetanes, Ansetanes, and Suessetanes. As for the Lacetanes, (a people dwelling in a sauage countrey, and out of the way) besides that their rough and barbarous disposition kept them in armes, they had highly offended the Ro­manes, whilest that the Consull was busie in warre vpon the marches of the Turdules, ouer­running and spoyling the lands of their allies: Wherefore the Consull led vnto the siege of their towne not onely the Romane bands, but also the youth of those allies, whom they had wronged.This towne it may be is that which they now call Iacca. This towne was long, but not very broad. Encamping within foure hundred paces of it; there he placed certaine chosen companies, commaunding them not to stirre, vntill he returned vnto them, and then he led the rest of his forces vnto the other side of the towne. There were a great number of Suessetane soldiors among the strangers allies, whom he cau­sed to march against the towne, and to assayle the wall. These being discouered by the Lace­tanes, and knowne by their armes and ensignes to be souldiors of Suesse, whose territorie they had spoyled at their pleasure, and many times defeated their troupes, they sallied out vpon them: but the Suessetanes scarce seeing them approach, crying out and shaking their armes, fled, and the others pursued them. The Consull, who expected no lesse, gallopped along the wals vnto the companies which he had left on the other side; and whilest the townesmen pur­sued the Suessetanes, he seized vpon their towne being vnmanned, and tooke it, before the townesmen were returned from the chase, forcing them to yeeld vnto his mercie. Presently after this exploit, he went against a strong towne, called Vergium, which was the receptacle of all the theeues in the countrey, who robbed and spoyled all men which dwelt thereabouts, or passed that way. The Lord of the place came foorth presently to meet with the Consull, ex­cusing himselfe, That neither he nor his subjects did wrong any man, but that certain theeues [Page 85] being receiued into the towne, they had made themselues masters thereof. The Consull said vnto him, That if it were so, he should returne into the towne, and find some meanes (when he should giue an assault) to seize vpon the citadell or fort, with them of his faction, whilest the theeues were busie to defend the walls.Vergium taken by Cato. This was cunningly put in practise, and the theeues which held the towne were surprised in diuers places, being encountred on the one side by the Romane armie, and on the other side by them of the fort. Thus Cato woon this place, and hauing pardoned them which held the fort, with their kinsfolkes and friends, graunting them their liues and goods, he commaunded the Treasurer to sell all the rest of the Vergestanes for slaues, to them that would giue most: and as for the theeues and robbers, he caused them all to be hanged.

By these actions the Consull Cato had reduced the Prouince to more quietnesse,Cato disposeth of the reuenues of Spaine. and then he began to dispose of the publicke reuenues for the Romanes in these countries, renting out the mynes of yron and siluer, which made it rich. The yeare of his Consulship being en­ded, he returned to Rome, whereas P. Corn. Scipio the second time, and Titus Semp. Longus had beene created Consuls. There he entred in triumph, and brought into the Treasurie 25000 pounds of siluer in masse, 123000 Bigats, and 540 of Osca,Anno Rome 559 with 1400 pounds of gold. Be­sides, there was payed vnto euery footman 370 Asses, and thrice as much to euery horseman, Cato saying, That euery one must tast of their spoyles.

8 There were sent into Spaine for Pretors P. Cor. Scipio, P. Cor. Scipio and Sex. Digi­tius sent Pre­tors into Spaine. sonne to Cn. cousin to the other, for the further Spaine, and Sex. Digitius (it may be it was he which was honoured with a mu­rall crowne at the taking of new Carthage) into the hither part. As for the armies, that of the Pretors was entertained, and the Consuls cast. One of these Gouernours was more fortu­nate than the other: for P. Scipio did not onely defend all that which belonged vnto his pro­uince, but put the Lusitanians (who came to assayle him) to rout. Sex. Digitius had many great troubles in his gouernment, and many vnfortunate encounters,Sex. Digitius vnfortunat. so as he deliuered not halfe the men which he had receiued at his comming, to his successor: and without doubt all Spaine had risen, if the other Pretor had done no better. P. Corn. sonne to Cn. by his judge­ment and dexteritie did so terrifie the enemies in the farthest parts of Spaine, as aboue fiftie Townes and Communalties yeelded vnto him. After the expiration of his gouernment, attending his successour, he set vpon certaine Lusitanian theeues, who returned with a great bootie, which they had taken from the subjects and allies of the Romanes: and although he were in great perplexitie and danger in this charge, despairing almost of the victorie, for the which (if he did obtaine it) he did vow games to Iupiter Olympicus: A great victorie of P. Cor. Scipio, sonne to [...]n a­gainst the Lusi­tanians. yet he woon it, and (be­ing much inferior in number of souldiors) defeated the Lusitanians; where hee slew twelue thousand vpon the place, tooke fiue hundred and fortie prisoners, all horsemen, and car­ried away an hundred thirtie foure Ensignes, hauing lost very few of his men. This en­counter was neere vnto the towne of Ilipa, whither the Pretor went with his armie, and brought foorth all the bootie that was recouered, suffering euery one to carrie away the goods and cattell which had beene taken from him by the enemie, and causing the rest to be sold, with the which the souldiors were recompenced. Scipio obtained this victorie in qua­litie of Vice-Pretor.

9 L. Corn. Merula and Q. Minutius Thermus being created Consuls at Rome,Ann. Rome 560 C. Flami­nius was chosen Pretor for the hither part of Spaine, and M. Fuluius Nobilior for the further: C. Flaminius should succeed Sex. Digitius, to repaire the bad successe which had happened du­ring his gouernment. He demaunded of the Senat, That he might take one of the Legions ap­pointed for the citie, and that mingling with them such souldiors as he should leuie, he might chuse out of the whole number 6500 foot & 300 horse; and that with this Legion thus made, he might vndertake the affaires: for he did not much relye vpon those forces which remained with Sext. Digitius, the which were in a manner ruined, saying, That the warre growing hote in Spaine, they might not goe vnfurnished; speaking of the good and bad successe of that Prouince, as well by himselfe, as by his friends, much to his owne aduantage. The auncient Senatours were not of opinion,The wisdome of the Romans re­spected no com­mon bruites in matters of state. That the Senat should make any decrees vpon the reports of priuat men in fauour of magistrats, and that they must not giue credit to that which was spoken touching matters of gouernment, if it were not aduertised by the Gouernors them­selues, or embassadours sent to relate the successe. Finally, the Senat resolued, That if there [Page 86] were any troubles in Spaine, they should leuie men there: yet they write, That C. Flaminius went into Sicile, where he enrolled certaine bands; and that passing from thence into Spaine, he was cast vpon the coast of Africke, where he tooke an oath of some souldiours which he found there, being the remainders of the armie of P. Scipio Africanus: and that besides all these, he leuied men in Spaine. But whatsoeuer he did, yet he found not the affaires of Spaine so difficult as they had giuen it out. Being in his gouernment (which extended vnto the O­retanes) he tooke the towne of Ilucia, and hauing lodged his souldiours to Winter, there were many light skirmishes betwixt him and the Spaniards, whereas he had not alwayes the better, but lost many of his men.

The other Pretor which gouerned the further Spaine did great exploits: for he fought a battaile with the Vacceans, Vectons, and Celtiberians all together, neere vnto Tolede, put them in rout, and defeated them, taking their king Hilerme aliue. The yeare following the go­uernment was continued to these two Pretors. Flaminius tooke the towne of Litabrum by force, the which was strong and very rich: he also tooke Corribilo, a nobleman of great fame, prisoner.The happie ex­ploits of Fuluius Nobilior. Fuluius in the further Spaine did fight happily with two armies, tooke the townes of Vescelia and Holo from the Spaniards, with many castles, some by force, and some by compo­sition: and then passing by the Oretanes country, he seized vpon Nobilia & Cusibis, and came vnto the riuer of Tayo, on the which Toledo stood, a small town, but strong of situation: whilst he did batter it, an armie of the Vectons came to succour it, but he defeated it: then continuing his siege and batterie, he tooke the towne. This done, he returned to Rome, L. Emilius Paulus being chosen to succeed him, when as P. Cor. Scipio, sonne to Cn. and M. Attilius Glabrio were Consuls. He entred into Rome with the solemnitie of Ouation, bringing into the common treasurie 130000 Bigats of siluer, 12000 pounds of siluer in masse, and 127 pounds of gold. C. Flaminius was continued in his Pretorship in the hither Spaine.

10 But whereas other Pretors had but six officers which caried rods and axes before them, L. Emilius had twelue,P. Emillius Pre­tor with Consu­larie authoritie. so as his Pretorship was equall with the honor & dignitie of a Consul. To either of these Pretors (besides the armies which were in the countrey) were appointed a supplie of 3000 foot and 300 horse, newly leuied; two third parts of them of their allies, and the other third part of Romane citizens. Paulus did twice defeat the barbarous Spaniards in battaile, and slew 30000, hauing taken his aduantage vpon the passage of a riuer. He brought vnder the obedience of the Romanes 250 places, by their voluntarie yeelding, and yet with the honour of all these gallant exploits he returned to Rome,The great inte­gritie of P. E. milius in his go­uernment. P. Emilius tut to rout by the Spaniards. hauing not enriched himselfe one dragma during his gouernment; the which is a rare thing in a man of commaund. His gouernment being then continued for another yeare, he did somewhat blemish the glorie of his victories, by a notable rout which he had in the Bastitanes countrey, whereas he lost 6000 men vpon the place, the rest of his army recouered their campe with great difficultie, and then was forced with long marches to retyre himselfe into places of more safetie: but afterwards attending the comming of L. Bebius, who should succeed him, he was reuenged of the Lusi­tanians for his former losse, of whom, he slew 18000, tooke 330, and woon their campe, with their baggage.

L. Bebius had beene chosen at Rome to succeed him: but as he marched by the riuer of the Ligusticke sea, he was set vpon by certaine Ligurians, who slew most part of his men, and him­selfe being wounded,The vnfortunat encounter of L. Babius. hee was forced to saue himselfe in Marseilles, with a small number, and without vshers, whereas the third day after he died. These newes being sent to Rome by them of Marseilles, the Senat appointed, That P. Brutus in the Pretors place should take the gouern­ment of the further Spaine, and leauing the armie and prouince of Tuscane to one of his lieu­tenants, he should speedily depart. In the other part of Spaine,Ann. Rome 564 neerer vnto Gaule, L. Plautius Hipseus was appointed in C. Flaminius place, whose gouernment was reasonably quiet.

M. Valertus Messala and C. Liuius Salinator being made Consuls at Rome, the hither part of Spaine was giuen to L. Manlius Acidinus, Anno 565. and to C. Catinius the farther: who continued in the same charge the yeare following: in the which the Lusitanians and Celtiberians troubled the peace, & went armed to field: the which being written to Rome by the Pretors, they did chuse L. Quintius Crispinus, who had that part of Spaine which lyes beyond the riuer of Ebro, and C. Calphurnius Piso for the other part.C. Catinlus de­feats the Lusita­nians. Whilest they prepare, C. Catinius came to fight with the Lusitanians in the territorie of Asta, whom he defeated in battaile, woon their campe, [Page 87] and slew 6000 vpon the place: but as he gaue an assault to the towne of Asta (the which was taken without any great resistance) he was wounded, and died soone after. L. Manlius the other Vice-Pretor had an encounter with the Celtiberians in his gouernment, yet no man knew who had the victorie;He that leaues the field, conses­seth he is van­quished. onely the Celtiberians dislodged the night following, confessing there­by, that they were vanquished. The Romans being masters of the field, had leysure to burie their dead, and to gather vp their spoyles.

Within few dayes after the Celtiberians hauing augmented their forces, they came and as­sayled the Romanes neere to Calaguris, which now is Calahorra, but they were beaten, and lost 12000 men vpon the place,The Celtiberians defeated. 2000 were taken prisoners, and they were chased out of their campe, and lost their baggage. And such was the heat of this victorie, that if they had not beene restrained by the comming of the new Pretors, the Celtiberians had beene wholly sub­dued. Quintius and Calphurnius, as soone as they were within their prouinces, lodged their armies to Winter. L. Manlius being returned to Rome, made his entrie with the ceremo­nie called Ouatio, whither he brought 52 crownes of gold, 132 pounds of gold, 16300 pounds of siluer, and declared in open Senate, That besides all that, his Treasurer Qu. Fa­bius brought 10000 pounds of siluer and 80 pounds of gold, to be put into the common Treasurie.

11 The Spring time being come,Beturia now called Estre [...] Dura. the two Pretors went to field with their armies, and joyned together in Beturia, marching towards the Carpetanians countrey, where the ene­mies were then in field. The beginning of their exploits was not very successfull, but in the end they made reparation of their errors. The fight began betwixt the forragers on either side, neere vnto the townes of Hippo and Tolede; to whose succours there came some from either army, and in the end all their forces came thither: so as the Spaniards seeing themselues in a conuenient place for their manner of fighting, the two Romane armies were defeated in this vnexpected skirmish,The Romans de­feated, but the Spaniards can­not pursue the victorie. and repulsed with great disorder and amazement, within their pallisadoes and rampiers, and yet the enemies could not follow their good fortunes. The Pretors fearing to be assaulted, dislodged in the night: and at the breake of day the Spaniards presented themselues before the trenches; but seeing no shew of any enemie, they entred into the campe, whereas they made bootie of that which the Romanes could not carrie away with them. This done, they stayed there some dayes, without attempting any thing. The Romans lost in this combat and in the flight about fiue thousand men, of their citizens and allies, with whose spoyles the Spaniards armed themselues, and marched towards the banks of Tayo. All the respite the Romane Pretors had, they employed it to fill vp their bands with Spanish soul­diors of their friends and allies, and to assure the rest which had bin beaten. Wherefore when as they did see their forces reasonably well repaired, and their souldiours hearts reuiued (who demaunded nothing more than the enemie, to reuenge the disgrace which they had receiued) they came and encamped within twelue miles of the riuer of Tayo: when as a good part of the night was spent, they tooke vp their ensignes, and came by the breake of day to the riuers side, whereas they put themselues into a square battaile. The enemies were on the other side, en­camped on the side of a hill, and the Romans hauing found a foord in two places passed ouer; Quintius on the right hand, and Calphurnius on the left,The Spaniards know not how to embrace the occasion. but the enemie moued not: who being amazed at their suddaine arriuall, spent time in consultation what they should do, when they might haue disordered all the Roman armie, being troubled at the passage of this riuer. In the end all passed, both souldiors & baggage, the which they laid all together: for they neither had any conuenient place, nor any leisure to make any trenches, nor to plant their campe, for that the enemie began to arme, so as they put themselues in order to fight, placing the strength of their armie (which consisted in two Legions) in the middest. The field betwixt both enemies lay open, which did assure them from ambushes and surprises. The Spaniards seeing these two Legions in two great squadrons, put themselues in battaile on the riuers side where they were, thinking to disorder them before they should be able to joyne with the bodie of their armie; wherefore they went and gaue them a furious charge. The fight in the beginning was fierce, the Spaniard being puffed vp with pride for his former victorie, and the Romans mad with desire to deface the ignominie to haue beene vanquished, contrarie to their cu­stome. The two Legions in the middest fought valiantly, and could not be forced: where­fore the Spaniards resoluing to pierce through them by some means, they sent a great troupe [Page 88] in forme of a wedge,A battaile be­twixt the Ro­manes and Spa­niards. to breake this battaillon. The furie of the fight was great, and Calphur­nius feared the Legions should not be able to resist: wherefore he sent T. Quintius Varus and L. Iuuentius Thalua (two Lieutenants) vnto them to aduertise them, That there was no means to hold Spaine, nor to saue themselues, neither euer to see their houses, nor Italie; no, not to get vnto the other side of the riuer of Tayo, if they did not vanquish their enemies: and he at the same instant, with the horsemen of the two Legions, went and charged this pointed troupe in flanke, and Quintius came on the other side with a certaine number of horsemen, but with lesse courage than Calphurnius, who fought in the middest of the preasse: so as by reason of the Pretors presence, and the danger whereinto hee thrust himselfe, the legionarie souldiours and all the rest were greatly encouraged to doe their duties; so as they first put their enemies to rout, and then to flight, towards their campe: whither they were pursued by the horsemen, who entred pell-mell with them that fled; where they were sorely prest by them that had beene left to gard the baggage, so as they were forced to leaue their horses, and to make head against them, vntill the fifth Legion arriued, and the other bands, one after ano­ther, who freed them from this danger, and put all the Spanish armie to the sword: so as of fiue and thirtie thousand which were in the beginning of the battaile,A notable de­feat of Spani­ards. there escaped but foure thousand; whereof three thousand recouered a neere mountaine, and a thousand being naked and disarmed, wandered vp and downe the fields. The Romans carried away an hundred thir­tie three of the enemies ensignes: they themselues lost in this conflict little aboue six hun­dred men, and about an hundred and fiftie Spaniards of their confederats. Fiue Colonels and some Romane knights (which were slaine there) made the victorie seeme lesse fortunat. The Romane armie was lodged in the enemies campe, for that they had no time to rampier their owne. The day following Calphurnius did highly extoll the souldiors valour, and gaue them gifts in testimonie of their vertue: to knights he gaue caparisons, shewing, that by their va­lour chiefely the battaile had beene woon: many captaines of the two Legions were also re­warded. These two Gouernours returned to Rome, A. Terentius Varro and P. Sempronius be­ing chosen in their places, during the Consulship of P. Claudius Pulcher and L. Portius Licinius. They brought many crownes of gold, and readie money, with gold and siluer in masse, where­of the number is vncertaine; and they triumphed for the victories which they had gotten a­gainst the Lusitanians and Celtiberians.

A. Terentius had the hither part of Spaine,Ann. Rome 568 and Sempronius the further: they also had pro­longation in their charge for the yeare following. Varro had some encounters in this second yeare with the Ausetanes, a people inhabiting in the countrey of Cattelogne, not farre from the riuer of Ebro, and against the Celtiberians, whom he vanquished, and tooke some strong places and townes, which they made their retreat in those marches. As for Sempronius go­uernment, it was quiet: for the Lusitanians stood in awe of the Romans fortune, and the Pre­tor was continually afflicted with a troublesome disease, which made him vnfit for all publicke gouernment, and in the end killed him in Spaine. P. Manlius did succeed him, who had once beene Pretor in the hither Spaine, when as Cato was Consull, and Quintus Fuluius Flaccus suc­ceeded Varro.

The hither Spaine was in armes, and had need of a captaine and souldiors to suppresse the enemie: but in the other prouince the Romanes had no worse enemies than themselues: for that by reason of Sempronius long infirmitie, the souldiors were idle, and in a manner without a head,Idlenesse and ease an enemie to vertue, cor­rupt the Roman armie. all were corrupted, insolent, and without any militarie discipline; the which they must chiefely remedie. The Senate therefore decreed, That there should be foure thousand foot and two hundred Roman horse newly leuied, to be sent into Spaine, with seuen thousand foot and three hundred horse of their allies.

Terentius Varro yeelded vp the prouince and the armie to Qu. Fuluius Flaccus, who besie­ged a towne called Vrbicua, whereas the Celtiberians came to assaile him, making diuers skir­mishes to rayse the siege, in the which many Romanes were slaine or hurt. But Fuluius con­tinued firme, and by his perseuerance woon the towne, the enemies (tyred with fighting) be­ing forced to retyre. The towne being destitute of succours, was within few dayes taken and sacked. P. Manlius did no other thing in his gouernment, but gather together the dispersed souldiours, so as both he and Fuluius after the taking of Vrbicua lodged the ar­mies to Winter. Terentius being returned to Rome, entred in pompe, and brought into the [Page 89] treasure 9320 pounds of siluer, 80 pounds of gold, and two crownes of gold of 67 pounds weight.

The yeare following these two Pretors were continued in their gouernment, and the warre grew hoter in Fuluius prouince than euer: for the Celtiberians went to field with thir­tie fiue thousand fighting men: against whom, Fuluius fortified himselfe with all the Spani­ards he could leuie among the Romane confederates: but hee did not equall the enemies in number: yet hee marched into the Carpetanians countrey, and encamped neere vnto Ebura, into the which he put a garrison. The Celtiberians approched soone after, and planted their campe within halfe a league of the Romanes, at the foot of a hill; whereas the Pretor sent to discouer them by two companies of their confederats horses, being led by his brother M. Ful­uius, commaunding him to approch neere vnto the enemies trenches, and to obserue of what compasse they were, and if they came forth to charge them, they should retyre without figh­ting: the which he executed accordingly. Some daies were spent without any action of im­portance. In the end the Celtiberians resolued to goe foorth with all their forces, who pre­sented themselues in battaile, in the plaine which was betwixt the two armies, and there at­tended the Romanes: yet Fuluius stirred not, but kept his men foure dayes together within his campe; during the which, the Spaniards shewed alwaies the same countenance: then see­ing that the Romans lay still, and that there was no means to fight with them, they kept them­selues also quiet for a time; onely the horsemen went forth, keeping themselues readie, if the enemie should make shew to assayle them. The forragers on both sides went foorth behind their armies without any let. This hauing continued some dayes, the Romane Pretor (thin­king that he had made the enemie secure) commaunded L. Acilius to march with six thousand Spanish foot of their allies, and some of the horsemen of the left wing, about the hill vpon the enemies backe, and there he should attend vntill he heard the crie of the Legionaries and the rest of the armie, and that then he should come and assayle the enemies campe. Acilius parted in the night, because he would not be discouered. Fuluius at the breake of day caused C. Stri­bonius Colonel of the Latines, to march towards the Celtiberians trenches, accompanied with the extraordinarie horsemen of the left wing. The enemie seeing him better accompa­nied than the day before, sallied presently foorth with all his horse, being followed by their footmen. Stribonius seeing them come, turned head, as he had beene commaunded, and rety­red towards the Romanes campe. The Celtiberians pursued them speedily both with horse and foot, persuading themselues, the day should not passe, before they were masters of the Romanes campe, being now within fiue hundred paces. Then Fuluius seeing that hee had drawne them farre ynough from their fort, he made way for his armie, being readie in their trenches, causing them to fally foorth by three seuerall ports at one instant, commaunding them to make great shouts and cries, not so much to giue courage to the souldiors, as it was their custome, as to aduertise them that were in ambush behind the hill, attending a signe to assayle the enemies campe. When as they heard the crie, they ran vnto their rampiers ac­cording vnto their directions: The Celtiberians had onely left fiue hundred men to gard it, who made no great resistance, being amazed both at their own small number, and at the mul­titude of those that came suddainely to assayle them. Acilius hauing woon their campe, hee presently set fire on such places as lay open to the enemie. The flame appearing, did much daunt the Celtiberians, and gaue courage vnto the Romans, being assured thereby, that their campe was taken. Notwithstanding, the Celtiberians seeing themselues destitute of a retreat, fought like desperat men,A memorable victorie of Qu. Fuluius Flaccus against the Cel­tiberians. and did much annoy the Romanes: but in the end being oppressed both with the first troupes and with fresh supplies, and by Acilius, who returned from the ta­king of the campe, and by the garrison of Ebura, who sallied forth in the heat of the battell, they were vanquished, and great numbers slaine vpon the place, and afterwards wholly de­feated, the horsemen pursuing them that fled. They write, That in this battaile there died 23000 Spaniards, and 4800 prisoners taken: the Romanes tooke aboue 500 horse, and 88 ensignes. Doubtlesse the victorie was great, yet not without bloud: for there were slaine about 200 legionarie Romanes, 830 Latines, allies, and 2400 strangers.The number of the dead. Which done, the Pretor brought backe his victorious armie into his campe. Acilius was sent vnto the campe which hee had taken, and the next day they gathered vp the enemies spoyles, and the souldiors being publickely assembled, euery one was rewarded according [Page 90] to his merits: then hauing left the wounded men at Ebura, the Legions were led to Contre­bia, by the territorie of the Carpetanians. This towne being besieged, they sent to demaund succours of the Celtiberians,Contrebia taken by the Romanes. but the towne was yeelded before they came. There had fallen such aboundance of raine at this season, as Fuluius was forced to lodge his armie within the towne. The Celtiberians, who could not come by reason of the high waters and the badway, knew nothing of the yeelding of this towne, vntill they were charged by the Romanes which were within it: for seeing no signes of a campe about it, they imagined the enemie had beene gone; so as they approached the towne without order, fearing no dan­ger: from whence the Romanes sallied forth vpon them with great furie, and put them to flight: and although the field was spacious, and the commoditie great to saue themselues, yet there died twelue thousand men,Another defeat of the Celtiberi­ans by Fuluius. fiue thousand were taken prisoners, foure hundred hor­ses of seruice, and sixtie two ensignes gotten. These Celtiberians being dispersed, they ad­uertised their companions which came vnto them, of their defeat: whereupon they retur­ned, and all this preparation went to smoake. In the further or West part of Spaine, the Pretor Manlius did also fight happily against the Lusitanians. After these exploits Q. Ful­uius sent L. Minutius his Lieutenant to Rome, with two Colonels. T. Meuius and L. Terentius Massaliota, to carrie newes, That the Celtiberians had beene wholly vanquished in two great battailes, and that the Senate should not need to make prouision of money or any other thing for the entertainment of their souldiors that yeare, for that (sayd they) the warre was ended. They demaunded also, That the Pretor might haue leaue to bring backe the armie, which he and others before him had so happily managed and employ­ed: the which (they sayd) was not onely reasonable, but very necessarie, for that euerie one demaunded leaue, speaking openly, That if it were not graunted them, they would take it.

13 At the first generall assembly A. Posth. Albinus Luscus Ann. Rom [...] 573 and C. Calphurnius Piso being made Consuls, they also created new Pretors to send into Spaine:New Pretors sent into Spaine. the hither part by Ebro fell to T. Sempronius Gracchus, and L. Posthumius had the West part. T. Sempronius was not much pleased with the request made on Fuluius behalfe, to whom he should succeed: where­upon he protested, That if they sent him thither with an armie newly leuied, hee would keepe himselfe within his garrisons, and not expose vnexperienced souldiours against an e­nemie so long trained vp in warre. Thereupon the Senate did decree, That they should rayse a Legion of fiue thousand two hundred foot, and three hundred Romane horse, and be­sides it a thousand Romane foot and fiftie horse; and the Latines their allies should be en­joyned to furnish seuen thousand foot and foure hundred horse: and that with this armie Sempronius should goe into Spaine: giuing leaue vnto Qu. Fuluius to bring backe the soul­diors which had beene sent thither before that Sp. Posthumius and Qu. Martius were Con­suls; which was six yeares before: and moreouer, when the new leuie were come into the countrey, it should be also lawfull for him to bring all backe that were aboue two complete Legions, of tenne thousand foure hundred foot and six hundred horse, Romanes, and twelue thousand foot and six hundred horse of their allies, Latins, of those souldiors with the which Fuluius had gotten two victories against the Celtiberians.

Whilest these new Pretors were expected in Spaine, Qu. Fuluius in qualitie of Vice-Pre­tor vndertooke to goe and assayle the Celtiberians lying a farre off, for that they had not yet reconciled themselues vnto him. This did rather incense the Barbarians than amaze them: wherefore going to armes, they seized vpon the strait or passage called Manlian, by the which they knew the Romane armie must returne. Gracchus had giuen charge to L. Posthumius Albinus, going to his gouernment in the further Spaine, to aduertise Qu. Ful­uius, That hee should come and meet him with the armie at Tarracone, where hee would discharge the old bands, distribute the supplyes which he had brought, and dispose of the whole armie; appointing a short time vnto Fuluius for the effecting thereof. Vpon which newes he was forced to depart suddainely out of the Celtiberians countrey: which made the people surmise, that he had some intelligence, that they did secretly arme, and that he retyred for feare:The Romanes charged by the Celtiberians in a strait. Wherefore they began to gard the passage more straitly and proud­ly than before. The Romane armie being entered into this passage at the breake of day, they were assayled in two seuerall places at one instant, Qu. Fuluius giuing order for all [Page 91] things, according to the time and place, and making a briefe exhortation to his souldiors, he assured them. The fight began to grow hot, but not with like aduantage: for the legions and the Latines vpon the wings did fight valiantly, but their Spanish souldiours could not resist their countrey-men, who were better souldiours than they. The Celtiberians seeing they could not vanquish the Romanes, fighting hand to hand with them in a set battell, they had recourse vnto their accustomed fashion, which was, to shape their troup like a wedge. Being thus ordered, they are more firme and violent, and can hardly be withstood: by this meanes they had almost disordered the legions.The Romans di­stressed. The which the Generall perceiuing, hee ran presently to the legionary horsemen, asking them, What they did there, and what succour might be ex­pected from them? To whom they answered, That they were readie to obey whatsoeuer hee should command. Ioyne then (said he) all the horses together of the two legions, and with a full car­riere breake through that wedge of men which doth force our squadron; yea take the bridles from your horses, is our auncestors haue often done with good successe, that you may ouerthrow them with more violence. Whereunto the horsemen speedily obeied, and setting spurres to their vnbridled horses, they passed and repassed through this troupe of the enemies, breaking their staues, and making great slaughter of them.Another great defeat of the Celtiberians by Qu. Fuluius. When this wedge was broken and dispersed, in the which the Spaniards did wholly relye, they had no other thought but vpon flight. The Latin horsemen moued with the valour of the Romanes, without any further commaundement, fell vpon the enemies already broken, so as there was a great slaughter made in the flight through­out all the strait. For this victorie the vice Pretor did vow a temple vnto Fortune, and games vnto Iupiter. There died in this encounter seuenteene thousand Celtiberians,The number of the dead of ei­ther side. aboue three thousand prisoners, and two hundred threescore and seuenteene ensignes taken, and a­bout one thousand and one hundred horses gotten. The victorious armie did neither intrench nor rampar for that day: But this victorie was not without losse to the Romans, for there were foure hundred threescore and ten citizens slaine, a thousand and nineteen Latines, and of Spa­niards and other strangers, their allies, three thousand. Thus this armie hauing redoubled her fame by this victorie, it arriued at Tarracone, whereas Sempronius the Pretor (who arriued there but two dayes before) went forth to meet him, and did congratulate with Fuluius and the souldiours, their happie exploits for the commonweale. Then did they louingly and with great concord, discharge and retaine what they thought fit among the souldiours, according to the decree of the Senat: And for that yeare there was little done in Spaine by the new go­uernours, for that they arriued late by reason of the death of one of the Consuls, and the subrogation of another, which staied their expedition. The yeare following they were conti­nued in their gouernments.

Q. Fuluius Flaccus being returned to Rome,Anno Rome 574 when as he stayed without the towne, to haue order for his triumph according to the custome, he was chosen Consull with L. Manlius Acidi­nus, and then he entred in triumph, with the souldiours which he had brought out of Spaine. He brought into the publique treasurie one hundred and twentie foure crownes of gold, 31 pounds of gold, and 173200 deniers of coined money of Osca, besides he gaue fiftie deniers, being about fiue crownes, to euerie footman, twice as much to the centeniers, and thrice as much to the horsemen, as much to the allies and Latines, and to all in generall double pay.

This yeare the Gouernors in Spaine diuided the warre betwixt them, so as Albinus should goe and assayle the Vaccens by the country of the Lusitanians, and from thence should come into the marches of the Celtiberians. Gracchus should enter into the heart of their countrey, for that the warre was hottest there. There he first tooke the towne of Munda by force, ha­uing set vpon it suddenly in the night, and hauing taken hostages, and put in a garrison, he bat­tered some castles, and did forrage and burne the countrey vntill he came vnto another strong towne called Certima: whereas hauing begun to plant his engines to batter it, deputies came vnto him from the inhabitants, who vsed a simple kind of speech vnto him, after the auntient manner, without any dissembling,The f [...]ee simpli­citie of the Spa­niards. telling him freely, That they would make warre if they had meanes, desiring that they might haue leaue to goe vnto the Celtiberians campe, to demand succours: the which if they could not obtaine, they would then take counsell of their affaires distinctly from the other nations. Gracchus yeelded to their demaund:Gracchus his fa­cilitie and cour­tesie to the Bar­barians. and within a few daies after they returned, bringing with them ten other deputies. It was about noone. The first words which they spake vnto the Pretor, were, That they intreated him to commaund some of [Page 92] his people to bring them drinke: which done, they demaunded more, making all the assistants to laugh at their grosnesse, and want of ciuilitie. Then the eldest among them began to speake, saying, That they had beene sent vnto him by them of their nation, to know, vpon what ground he was come to make warre against them. Gracchus answered, That it was vpon the assurance of a goodly armie, which he had, and if they would see it, to make a more certaine report vnto their men, he would suffer them, commaunding some captaines to cause them all to arme, and to make them march and skirmish together. These deputies reported vnto their people what they had seene; which diuerted them from sending any succours to the towne besieged: The inhabitants whereof (seeing themselues abandoned) yeelded, paying the va­lue of 62000 crownes, and gaue fortie knights, of the noblest among them, not in shew as hostages (for they put them among their bands to carrie armes) although in effect they were as pawnes of their promises and accords. From thence Gracchus led his armie to Alce, a town whereas the Celtiberians (who had sent the ten deputies vnto him) were camped, against whom for some dayes he sent his light horsmen, to tire them with light skirmishes, euen with­in their gards, sending more men daily, to the end he might draw them out of their trenches to battell. The which succeeding according to his desire, hee commaunded the Generall of the allies, to begin the fight, and that presently turning their backes, and making shew to bee oppressed with multitudes, they should returne with all speed towards the campe. He in the meane time put his armie in battell within the rampars, neere vnto euerie gate, and suddenly when he saw his men turne head towards the campe flying, as he had commanded them, and the enemie following with no lesse speed; hauing retired his men, he drew forth his armie by all those ports, with great cries, so as the enemies could not make any resistance: and it hap­pened, that those which came running to take the Romanes campe,Gracchus victo­rie against the Celtiberians. could not defend their owne; for presently they were repulsed, put to rout, and beaten into their palisadoes, where they were soone after forced. There were nine thousand slaine that day vpon the place, three hundred prisoners, 112 horses of seruice, and 37 ensignes woon. On the Romanes side there died but 109 men. After this defeat Gracchus led the legions to spoyle the countrey of the Celtiberians, wasting and carrying all away. Wherefore many, either for feare, or other­wise forced, yeelded vnto him: so as in few dayes he reduced vnder the Romanes obedience one hundred and thirteene townes,Some of the an­tient said these 113 town [...] were but farmes, or doue [...]ouses, to eclips the glorie of Gracchus. and tooke great spoyles. From thence hee returned a­gaine towards Alce, and began to assaile it. The inhabitants endured the first assault, but af­terwards seeing them prepare their engines to batter it, distrusting in their owne strength, they retired all into the castle, the which yeelded soone after, submitting themselues to Gracchus his mercie. The spoyle was great, and many noblemen and of good houses were taken prisoners; among the which there was a sonne and a daughter of Thurtus, who was the greatest nobleman of the countrey,Thurtus a pettie Spanish king lord of Alce. and to whom the place belonged. Hearing what was happened, he came with a safe-conduct into the armie to Gracchus: of whom he deman­ded life, both for himselfe and his, whereof Gracchus assured him. Then he desired to be ad­mitted to carrie armes with the Romanes, the which was granted him: and from that time he shewed himselfe faithfull and valiant in their seruice, and did greatly aduance the Romane affaires in Spaine.

Ergauica a mightie and famous towne, being amazed with the miseries and ruines of her neighbours, opened the gates to the Roman armie. Some write, that these yeeldings were not done faithfully, and that as soone as the legions were gone, they entred into rebellion, so as the Pretor had two encounters with the Celtiberians,Caunus, [...]ount Ca [...]o at this day. the one neere vnto mount Caunus, where the fight continued six houres, with great slaughter on either side, neither partie confessing himselfe to be vanquished. The second time (which was the third day after) the Romans had an assured victorie▪ where there were 22000 of the enemies slaine vpon the place, and 300 pri­soners, and as many horses, and 72 ensignes taken. By which defeat the war was ended in that countrey, and the Celtiberians demaunded peace, the which they did faithfully entertain for a time, without rebelling. They write, that L. Posthumius had at the same time woon two bat­tles of the Vaccens, others say, of the Brecaires, which are betwixt Minio and Duero, and had slaine 35000 of the enemies, and tooke their campe.

At Rome M. Iunius Brutus, & A. Manlius Volso being chosen consuls,Ann. Romae 575 M. Titinius & T. Fontei­us Capito were created Pretors & gouernors of Spain: Titinius had that part which was neerest [Page 93] vnto Gaule, and Capito the Westerne part: and then Sempronius Gracchus and L. Posthumius came to Rome, who had the honour of a triumph granted them, for that they had gouerned the affaires of the commonweale wisely and valiantly. Gracchus entred first in triumph for the Celtiberians, bringing into the treasurie fortie thousand pounds weight in siluer. His compa­nion entred some dayes after, triumphing for the Lusitanians, and other neighbour people, who also brought twentie thousand pounds. To euerie one of the souldiours was giuen fiue and twentie deniers, which is worth two crownes and a halfe: to the centeniers double, and to the horsemen treble as much, and to the souldiours of their allies as much as to them of Rome.

Spaine tyred with warre, was quiet during the gouernment of the new Pretors, who conti­nued there two yeares.

The third yeare Cn. Corn. Scipio Hispalus, Anno 577. and Q. Petilius Spurrinus being Consuls, M. Corn. Scipio Maluginensis, The new Pre­tors refuse their charge in Spain [...] and P. Licinius Crassus, were chosen Pretors in Spaine: Crassus had the hi­ther Spaine, and Scipio the further; but either of them pretended excuses not to go, and there­fore Titinius and Fonteius were continued in the gouernment as vice-Pretors, to whom there was appointed to fill vp their armies, three thousand foot, citizens of Rome, and two hundred horse, and fiue thousand Latins of their allies, with three hundred horse: yet there is no men­tion of any tumult in Spaine, during their abode, nor after they were changed, vntill the Con­sulship of Sp. Posthumius and Q. Mutius, which was two yeres after, in the which the gouern­ment of the hither Spaine fell to P. Furius Philo, Anno Rome 579 and the further to Cn. Seruilius Cepio. We read that whilest these Pretors prepared themselues to go into their prouinces, the Celtiberians being in armes, App. Claudius Cento (who was vice-Pretor there) gaue them a great defeat, so as they were forced to submit themselues vnto the yoke. They began their rebellion by a sud­den assault which they came to giue vnto the Romanes campe at the breake of day: Being discouered by the centinels, they cried to armes, so as the souldiors were presently armed, and readie to sallie forth, as they did by the ports: but the Celtiberians were so neere, as they kept them long from comming forth, so as the combat was in a manner equall. But the formost ranks being thrust on by their companions, in the end they got out of their palisadoes into the plaine,The Celtiberians defeated. where they had meanes to draw out their front, and the wings of their battell, equal to that of the enemies, with the which they were in a manner compassed in: but they behaued themselues so well, as they repulst them, and in lesse than two houres put them to flight, with the losse of aboue fifteene thousand of their men; so as the warre was ended: for such as esca­ped, submitted themselues soone after to the Romanes yoke, so as the new Gouernours had not any warre.

The next yeare L. Posth. Albinus, and M. Pompilius Lenas, being Consuls, Cn. Fabius Buteo, and M. Matienus were chosen to gouerne Spaine: and then arriued App. Claudius, who en­tred the citie with the pompe of ouation, bringing ten thousand pounds of siluer, and fiue thousand of gold. Fabius Buteo, who had the hither Spaine, going vnto his gouernment, fell sicke at Marseilles,Publique char­ges affected for priuat profit. where he died, so as P. Furius Philo was continued in his gouernment, and Matienus came into the further prouince. As it is a thing too well knowne, that gouernments are not affected but to get authoritie and wealth: so it falls out often, when as Gouernours find not matter to maintaine their greatnesse among the enemies by the warre, they can hardly doe justice to their fellow citizens and allies in time of peace: then they begin to molest the richest families, by false accusations, to faine necessities, to exact vpon the publique, and to vse other such practises, to fill their cofers, and enrich their ministers with the ruine and deso­lation of the commons. Thus did the Pretors and lieutenants of the people of Rome in Spaine.

These two Gouernours Furius and Matienus, either in his jurisdiction, hauing (by reason 14 of the peace) no other prey but those that were giuen them in gard,The Spaniards complaine of their gouernours couetousnesse. they polled them in such sort, as not able any longer to endure their extortions and fraud, the poore Spaniards were constrained to send embassadours to Rome, after that the Pretorship was ended: who hauing audience, casting themselues vpon their knees, they made a pitiful complaint of the pride and couetousnesse of their Gouernours, beseeching the Senate not to suffer their friends and allies to be oppressed and spoyled by them with greater violence than if they were enemies. Many crimes were objected by them, but concussion was best verified. The Senat decreed, That [Page 94] Lu. Canuleius (to whom the gouernment of Spaine was fallen) should chuse judges from a­mong the Senators,Spaine made one gouernment, and L. Canuleius Pretor alone. to examine the fact; and that the parties should chuse aduocates of the same order. Titinius, who had beene Pretor, during the Consulship of A. Manlius and M. Iunius in the higher Spaine, was drawne in question: but when as they had pleaded two seuerall dayes, he was absolued: but P. Furius Philo (who had beene Gouernour in the same prouince) and M. Matienus in the further Spaine, being accused of diuers crimes, and their cau­ses often pleaded, when as it was againe to be heard, they were excused, being absent, for that being loath to attend the sentence, they had voluntarily retired themselues, the one to Pre­neste, the other to Tybur: and so the matter was left vndecided.

Canuleius desiring to suppresse this pursute, to the end that many should not bee molested by the Spaniards, began to giue order for the affaires of his gouernment, and to inroll souldi­ours, to lead them into the prouince which was appointed for them, and so he parted. The Senat letting passe what had beene formerly done, prouided for the future, that the Romane magistrats should set no taxe vpon corne, and that they should not force the Spaniards to sell the twentieth part at their pleasures, which was a certaine tribute: and that they should send no more Commissaries into their townes to leuie money.

At the same time there came another kind of embassage to Rome, from them that had bin borne of Romane souldiours and Spanish women, and not maried. These were about foure thousand men. The Senat commaunded they should giue in their names, and be inrolled by L. Canuleius the Pretor: and that such as he should make free, should be conducted vnto Car­teia, vpon the Ocean sea, to dwell there. That the inhabitants of Carteia that would remaine there, should be receiued,A colonie of Libertines. and portions of land assigned them: and this colonie should be held for Latines, and be called the Libertines.

It seemes that the Romanes hauing no warres at that ime in Spaine,Spaine diuided againe into two gouernments. were resolued to re­duce it to one gouernment, and to send but one Pretor. After Canuleius mention is made of Claudius Marcellus, and then of P. Fonteius: of whose deeds there is no mention in auntient writers; so as it is to be presumed, this prouince continued quiet. But in the yeare 586 of the foundation of Rome, Q. Aelius and M. Iunius being Consuls, they did againe create two Pre­tors, which were Cn. Fuluius on the hither part, & about the riuer of Ebro; and C. Licinius Ner­ua in the further. After which the Romanes contenting themselues for many yeares, with their conquests in Spaine, they sought as it seemed to make them whom they had subjected, or drawne vnto them, ciuile, and to fashion them by little and little to the manners and incli­nations of the Romanes: without seeking the other people which were more barbarous, who also for their parts were glad to be left in peace, being terrified with the Romanes power, whom they would not incense, neither had they any care to seek their friendship, because they hated them, as violaters of the lawes of nature, and oppressors of mans libertie.

15 In the yere 600 of the foundation of Rome,Ann. Rome 600 Q. Fuluius and T. Annius being Consuls, the Celtiberians (who had beene vanquished and subdued by T. Gracchus fiue and twentie yeares before) began againe to stirre,The Celtiberians and other people repaire the de­manteled towns. the inhabitants of Sediga, a towne of the Areuaces, hauing (a­gainst their capitulations, and the commaundement of Gracchus) repaired the walls of their towne, and refused to pay tribute vnto the Romanes: by reason whereof other people being also rebelled in Spain, the Senat resolued to send an armie, and a Consul to be the General, so as Q. Fuluius was sent, who was not verie fortunat in the beginning. This yeare by a new cu­stome the Consuls entred into charge the first of Ianuarie,The Romane Magistrats change the day of entring into their Charges. whereas before they did not begin their magistracie vntill the fifteenth of March: whereunto they were induced by the rebel­lion of the Spaniards: the which was afterwards continued. Of this beginning followed the warre of Numancia, which lasted twentie yeares. The Senat of Rome hauing first forbidden them of Segida to raise their walls, and then commaunded them to goe to the war with their Consuls and Pretors, according to the pacification made by Gracchus, they answered, That they had capitulated,The stronger construe treaties as they please. not to make any new forts, but not to repaire their old. And as for go­ing to the warre, they were exempt from that charge, by the treatie of Gracchus: the which was true. But the Senat added a glose to these conditions, that is, As long as it shall please vs: the which the Spaniards would not heare of. Wherefore seeing that Quintus Fuluius Nobilior came against them with an armie of thirtie thousand men, they left their towne, which was not yet in defence, sent their wiues and children to their neighbours, and vnder the conduct [Page 95] of one Carus, they assembled to the number of 20000 foot,Carus a captaine of the Spaniards and 5000 horse, and came and cam­ped in a place couered with wood, verie fit to surprise their enemies, whom he met withall in the woods, and both gaue and took many wounds. Afterwards in a great encounter Carus had the victorie, hauing slaine 6000 Romans, wherewith being growne insolent and carelesse, the Consull had means to haue his reuenge, sending his horsemen to charge the Spaniards which were scattered and out of order: who put 6000 to the sword, and more had bin slaine, if night had not seperated them. This made the Celtiberians more circumspect. The same night the people of the countrey assembled at Numance,A conspiraci [...] of the Spaniards at Numance. and being resolued to resist the Romanes, they made choice of Ambo and Leuco for their captaines. The Consull Fuluius hauing receiued 300 horse, with some Elephants, from king Massinissa, a Moore (an auntient friend to the peo­ple of Rome) marching forward, he came and offered battell to the enemies vnder Numance. He had placed his Elephants behind the first rankes, that they might not be seene, thinking to terrifie them suddenly, and to defeat them by that meanes; but it fell out otherwise: for be­ing come to joyne, and the ranks opened, when as the Elephants shewed themselues, they did somewhat terrifie the Spaniards and their horses, which were not accustomed to see such beasts; so as turning their backes they went towards the towne: But one of these Elephants comming neere the walls, being hit on the forehead with a stone, he entred into such a rage, as turning against the Romanes themselues, he trode them vnder his feet; after whose example the rest began to run through the Romane troupes, and disordered them: For it is the nature of these beasts,Elephants held by the wise to be common enemies. when they are terrified, they know neither friend nor foe: wherefore many call them common enemies. The Spaniards which were within Numance, seeing this con­fusion, sallied out vpon the Romanes, and slew foure thousand men, and tooke three Ele­phants, and many ensignes; yet they lost two thousand of their men.

The Consull hauing refreshed himselfe somewhat after this rout, he was repulsed againe at the fort of Axenium, the which he assailed, to haue the victuals which the enemie had in it, and in this misfortune the Romans receiued a third rout, whereas Biasius a leader of some horse of their allies, was slaine, with many good souldiours. These many losses did moue the inhabitants of Ocilis,Ocelon reuolts from the Roman partie. or Ocelon, allies to the Romanes, and gardians of the money and vi­ctuals of their campe, to reuolt, and to follow the Celtiberians partie. So as vanquished with so many misfortunes, the Consull Fuluius could take no better course, than to fortifie his campe for to winter: the which hee did with the greatest want that might be, besides, haile, snow, raine, and all the rigour of the season, so as many of his souldiours perished for cold.

16 The yeare following M. Claudius Marcellus succeeded Fuluius, M. Marcellus Consull sent into Spaine. and brought 8000 foot and 500 horse into Spaine. This man was more politique than his predecessor, to keepe him­selfe from the surprises of his enemies, leading his armie safely to Ocilis, the which hee tooke in few dayes, and pardoned their offence, paying a fine of thirtie talents, and some hostages, which he demaunded of them. This clemencie of his made the Nertobriges, another nation, to send embassadors vnto him, to demaund peace and pardon: to whom he made a pleasing answer, demaunding an hundred horsemen of them; the which they promised. But during this treatie, they sent certaine troupes, which fell vpon the Romanes baggage, and spoyled some of it. Hereupon the hundred horsemen, which the Consull had demaunded, arriued, whom he committed to prison, and sold their horses, by reason of their treacherie. Then he led his armie against their towne.

The inhabitants seeing themselues inuironed with ditches and trenches,Ceremonies of the Barbarians when they are suters. sent forth a he­rauld attired in a wolues skin (a ceremonie vsed by the Barbarians in such supplications) crauing pardon. To whom hee made answere, That hee would not grant it, if the Are­uaces and the other rebels their allies did not sue for it all together. Which being knowne vnto them, they all sent their embassadours to intreat the Consull Marcellus to referre them to the accord made in former time with T. Gracchus, imposing vpon them (according to his clemencie) a tollerable punishment.

There were some people allyed vnto the Romanes, which hauing beene wronged by them, opposed themselues to this demaund: wherefore Marcellus sent them all to the Senat of Rome. The Senat made no other answer, hauing heard their debate, but that Marcellus should tell them what they were to do.

[Page 96] 17 In the meane time,Ann. Romae 602 in the yeare 602, Spaine fell by lot to the Consul L. Lucullus, and then they began first to inroll souldiours by lot. Lucullus led with him P. Scipio Aemiltanus (he that made himselfe famous by the euersion of Carthage the great, and of Numantia.) Mar­cellus hauing aduertised the Celtiberians of the comming of this Consull, and of the warre which was prepared, he aduised them, before they attended any greater extremitie, to yeeld to his discretion, promising them all good vsage, and reasonable conditions; for he desired to end this war before the comming of Lucullus: the which they did. This Marcellus (as Strabo writes) did build the citie of Corduba,Corduba built by M [...]tellus. and imposed a tribute of six hundred talents vpon Spaine, continuing his gouernment a good while after that Lucullus was chosen Consull, go­uerning as Proconsull.

Lucullus finding nothing to doe at his arriuall,Lucullus being couetous seekes occasion of war. he laid the foundation of a new warre, being as desirous to make some spoyle (for he was but poore) as to get honour. He entred therefore as an enemie into the Vaccens countrey, who had in no sort offended the Romanes: and ha­uing passed the riuer of Tayo, he went to besiege Cauca. The inhabitants demaunded what he would of them, and why he besieged them. He answered, That they had wronged the Celtiberians, allies to the Romanes, and that he came to reuenge it. Whereupon they reti­red into their towne, and put themselues in defence. Soone after they sallied forth suddenly vpon them that went to forrage, and slue a great number. But the Romane souldiours going forth to succor them, they repulsed the Spaniards, beating them euen vnto their town gates, whereas they smothered one another with the multitude, so as there were aboue three thou­sand slaine. Those which remained being amazed with this losse, they sent the next day the most antient among them, with girlands of oliue branches, desiring Lucullus to receiue them as friends, [...] bur­thens laid vpon them of Cauca by Lucullus. and to set downe the conditions; who imposed an hundred talents of siluer, and ho­stages, commaunding them to send their horsemen to the warre with him: which hauing granted, Lucullus said, That he would haue them receiue a garrison into their towne: where­vnto they were also willing to obey, so as presently there were two thousand of the best soul­diours in the armie sent, with commaundement to seise vpon the ports, towers, and strongest places of the towne: which they did. Then Lucullus drew in all the rest of the souldiors, and by the sound of the trumpet,Lucullus trea­cherous crueltie against the in­habitant [...] of Cauca. did most cruelly put all the inhabitants to the sword, sparing nei­ther age nor sexe: yet some slipping ouer the walls, and creeping through the prease, escaped, who proclaimed the Romanes treacherie, couetousnesse, and crueltie, throughout all Spaine: whereupon all those that dwelt in the champian countrey, and in places of easie accesse, reti­red vnto the mountaines, or into fortified townes; carrying with them what was good and precious: and what they could not carrie they burnt, being loath to leaue any spoyles to so cruell an enemie.

Cauca being thus ruined, Lucullus led his armie through a great part of the countrey which was barren and desart, vntil he came to the towne of Intercatia, where there were some twen­tie thousand foot and two thousand Spanish horse, gathered together: of whom Lucullus de­maunded indiscreetly,Truth breeds ha­tred and furie in the wicked when they are tou­ched. If they would not come to composition with him. But they asked, If he would receiue them with the like faith as he had done them of Cauca? reproaching vnto him with opprobrious words, this treacherous and inhumane fact. Wherewith Lucullus be­ing incensed (as commonly all those are which find themselues touched) he spoiled all their countrey, and then besieged them. They knowing there was no reason to come to battel with the Romane armie, maintained themselues with skirmishes and sudden sallies. During this siege a Spanish caualier richly armed, and brauely mounted, shewed himselfe often betwixt the armie and the towne, challenging some Romane to the combat, and seeing that no man durst come forth, he scorned them. But Scipio Aemilianus being then verie young, grieued to see the Romane knights thus dishonoured,Sclpio Aemilia­nus combats with a Spaniard and conquers him valiantly. and hauing leaue from the Consull, he went to en­counter him, and vanquished him: the which bred admiration in both parties, considering the inequalitie of the stature of the combatants; for Scipio was little, and the Spaniard wonderful great and strong. The Romanes conceiued good hope of this victorie: but in the night they were troubled with the cries of certaine horsemen of the towne, which were gone forth be­fore that Lucullus did inuest it, who being the same night returned, about the palisadoes of the Romane armie, made great cries and shouts, to whom the besieged made answer: so as the Romanes were forced to keepe themselues in armes, not knowing what part to gard: be­sides, [Page 97] they were tyred and growne weake, for that they wanted both bread, wine, oyle, salt and vinegre, liuing only vpon venison, hares, or pouldred flesh, the which bred fluxes, wherof ma­ny dyed. Continuing their batterie, they made a great breach, but comming to the assault, (whereas Scipio was one of the formost) and being in a manner masters of the towne, they were sharpely repulsed: and in their retreat many through ignorance of the place fell into certaine priuies, where they were swallowed vp. The besieged hauing repaired their breach, seemed resolute; but hunger pressing either partie, they could not long dissemble their necessities: so as Lucullus persuaded the Spaniards to yeeld, with the best words hee could, promising he would not deceiue them,Intercatia taken by composition. so as in the end they gaue him credit, and yeelded, vpon condition to send six thousand archers to the warre with him, giuing a certaine number of cattell, and some hostages.Couetousnesse, and no desire of honour, brought Lucullus into Spaine. Gold nor siluer (the desire whereof had drawne Lucullus into Spaine) there was not any: for the people of that countrie had neuer esteemed it. Matters being thus com­pounded, the Romane armie was led against Palantia, a strong and well fortified towne, whi­ther many of the champian countrey, and lesser townes were retired. Most of the colonels and captains were of opinion, That they should not striue in vaine against so mightie a town: but Lucullus, a couetous man, knowing it to be exceeding rich, would neuer leaue it vntill that hunger forced him, the horsemen of the towne (which were verie many) sallying out dai­ly vpon the Romans which went to forrage.Lucullus retire [...] from Pa [...]enza with shame. Being thus pressed, he put his armie into bat­tell, and retired, the Palantines following him in the taile, and pursuing him vnto the riuer of Duero, where they left their pursute, and returned. Lucullus passing on, led his armie to winter in the countrey of the Turditanes. Thus ended the warre against the Vacceans,Lucullus making war without authoritie, is not punished. for the which (although that Lucullus vndertooke it without authoritie or commandement from the Senat and people of Rome) he was neuer called into question.

18 About that time the Lusitanians, and people of the further Spaine, liuing vnder their owne lawes, had made incursions vpon the friends and allies of the people of Rome, hauing a certaine Africane for their captaine, and chased Manlius and Calphurnius, Romane captains, killing aboue six thousand of their men,Romans defea­ted by the Lusi­tanians. with Terentius Varro, their Questor or Treasurer. Wherewith this Africane growne proud, he went with a companie of Vectons, a neighbor people, to assaile the town of the Blastophenicians, a people who, they said, were brought and left in Spaine by Hannibal. This captaine being slaine there with a stone, they did presently make choice of one called Caesaras to be head of their armie: who gaue battell vnto Mumius which had beene sent from Rome with an armie; but he lost it: yet seeing that Mumius pur­sued his victorie inconsideratly, he turned head, and repaired his losse, so as he slew nine thou­sand of the Romane armie vpon the place,Mumius defeats the Spaniards, and is beaten by the vanquished through his own negligence. and not onely recouered his owne baggage, but tooke the enemies, and carried away a great number of ensignes, which the Lusitanians drag­ged vp and downe in scorne of the Romanes. Mumius hauing gathered together fiue thou­sand souldiours which remained, and reuiued them as well as he could, he found an opportu­nitie to charge the enemie going to forrage,Mumius reuen­geth his losses. and did so well, as he slew a great number, and recouered his ensignes.

The Lusitanians which dwelt beyond the riuer of Tayo, hauing in like maner proclaimed warre against the Romanes, and tooke the towne of Conistorgis by assault, a great and strong towne, confederat to the Romanes, they being led by a captaine called Caucene: and not con­tent to make a tumult in Spaine, some of them passed the strait at Hercules pillars, and went to spoyle Africke: the rest went to assaile Ocile. But Mumius arriuing with a thousand foot and fiue hundred horse, slew about fifteene thousand forragers, and made them to leaue the siege of Ocile. Then going against others, who thought to escape with the prey, hee left not one aliue to carrie newes of their defeat. Hee distributed the bootie which was portable a­mong his souldiours, and the rest (being consecrated to those gods who hee thought did pre­side ouer the warres) he burnt. After all this, he returned to Rome, and triumphed.

Attilius, or Acilius Balbus, succeeded Mumius, who at his first arriuall cut seuen hundred Lusitanians in peeces, and tooke Oxthraca, being the greatest and richest towne they had, stri­king terrour in all the neighbour people, which submitted themselues to his deuotion as far as the Vectons. But when as Acilius had lodged his armie for Winter, they rebelled, and began to annoy them that were friends and confederats to the Romanes: Against whom Ser. Galba sent Pretor to succeed Acilius, meaning to succour them, made a march of 15 leagues, [Page 98] and being come in sight of the enemie, without giuing rest to the souldiours, he led them to fight,Galba being vi­ctor is defeated by his rash pur­sute. and vanquished happily. But as the Romanes pursued the flying enemie in dis­order, and made many stands being wearie, the Lusitanians turning head, slue seuen thou­sand, and forced Galba to flie with his horsemen into Carmel, whither many that had escaped were retired: who hauing rallied them together, and leuied twentie thousand men of their confederats, he wintered at Cunes. The Consull Lucullus who wintered in Turditania, hea­ring that the Lusitanians were in armes, he sent the best of his captaines against them, and slue foure thousand of them, and afterwards hauing made a new head neere vnto Gades, hee cut fiue thousand and fiue hundred in peeces. And as Galba on his side pressed these people, they sent embassadors vnto him. seeming desirous to enjoy the accord made before with Attilius. Galba made shew to pitie them, and to excuse their excesse for that pouertie had made them to breake the treaties, and to steale: saying, That he knew well that the Barbarians of the countrey was the cause of these inconueniences: but if they had a true intent to be friends, he would diuide them into three troupes, and send them into fertile places to liue in. The Lusitanians being woon with these promises, put themselues into three troupes, and suffered themselues to be led to the places assigned by Galba, who spake vnto the first, as if they were in full peace,The treacherous cruelfie of Serg. Galba. injoyning them to leaue their arms; which hauing done, he caused them all to be massacred: and with the like fraud and crueltie he defeated the other two troupes, before they could haue any newes of the slaughter of their companions. Many slipping through the ar­med troupes, escaped; among the which was Viriatus, who reuenged the trecherie & crueltie of the Romanes against his country-men. Galba shewing himselfe as treacherous, and it may be more couetous than Lucullus, hauing filled his cofers with the spoyles of Lusitania, wher­of he did defraud both his friends and souldiours, returned to Rome, where he was called in question for his abuses: but being the richest man in the citie, he escaped by bribes.

20 The Lusitanians which remained of Lucullus and Galbaes treacheries, assembled toge­ther to the number of ten thousand, and did ouerrun the countrey of Turditania: against whom the Pretor C. Vetilius was sent; who hauing joyned the armie which hee brought from Rome, with the forces he found in Spaine, he went against them which spoyled their friends countrey, and slew many of them, forcing the rest to retire to the side of a hill, where he besie­ged them, so as they must either end their dayes by hunger or by the sword: wherefore they resolued to sue for mercie, and to intreat him to appoint them a countrey to dwell in; the which he willingly graunted. But Viriatus being in this besieged companie, who had escaped from Galbaes slaughter, began to speake in this manner.Viriatus incou­rageth his com­panions not to trust the Romans How wretched are we, that hauing so often tried the treacherie of these Romanes, we will againe offer our throats vnto them, and bee mur­thered by them, vnder the sweetnesse of their false promises? Do we not know that they with whom we haue now to deale, are the same who by their notable treacherie haue slaine our brethren and compani­ons? Were it not better to keepe our armes, and selling our liues at a deere rate, let them feele that wee are men, than suffering our selues to be disarmed by a foolish credulitie, to bee afterwards slaine like beasts at the slaughter? No, my companions, let vs not commit so grosse an error, as to despaire in that sort: let vs rather trie to force vs a passage, and you shall find the difficultie is not so great as you ima­gine, if you do what I shall aduise you. This souldiour speaking with a great courage, reuiued their spirits,Viriatus chosen captaine by the Lusitanians be­sieged, deceiues the Pretor. who with one voice cried out vnto him, That in a good houre he should be their cap­taine, and that he should lead them whither he should thinke good. Then he put them all in battell, except some thousand of the best appointed, which he kept with himselfe, and then he commaunded euerie one to flie, appointing their Rendezuous at Tribola. Vetilius was in doubt to pursue them that fled, thinking it the safest course to assaile Viriatus, & his thousand souldiours which were in battell on the side of the hill. But they hauing spent that day and a part of the next, in making a shew that they would fight with the Romanes, easily freed them­selues, being well mounted, and knowing the countrey; and then came to Tribola: and so this Spanish armie was preserued by the judgement and resolution of Viriatus, who of a shepheard became a huntsman, then afterwards a theefe, lastly he was head of an armie, and was in possi­bilitie to make himselfe king of Spaine.The Pretor Ve­tilius defeated and taken pri­souer by Viriatus. This action did win him much credit and reputation among the neighbour nations. Vetilius meaning to pursue him, fell into ambushes which he had laied in a certaine passage couered with wood: so as being charged in front by Viriatus his horsemen, and on either side by his footmen, the Roman armie was wholly defeated, and the [Page 99] Pretor Vetilius found among the prisoners, who being scorned as a man of no value by him that had taken him, for that he was old and fat, he was instantly slaine. The Romanes which e­scaped at this rout,An other defeat of the Romanes. gathered head at Tartesse, being some 6000 men, whom Vetilius, Questor or Treasurer, caused to rest for a time: and hauing made a new leuie of 5000 of their allyes, he sent them all to encounter Viriatus, but there returned not one, being all cut in peeces: whereupon the Questor kept himselfe within the wals, attending to be relieued by some other Roman armie. In the meane time Viriatus spoyled the fertile fields of the Carpetanians.

21 Then came C. Plautius for Pretor, bringing ten thousand foot, and thirteene hundred horse from Rome: Whereof Viriatus being aduertised, hee made shew to flie, after whom Plautius sent 4000 of his best men,C. Plautius de­feated by Viri­atus. who were suddenly charged by them that fled before them, and were in a manner all slaine. Viriatus passing beyond the riuer of Tayo, went and campt in a certaine mountaine full of oliues, called Venus mount: whereas Plautius burning with desire of reuenge for their former losses, was vanquished again with great losse, and for­ced to retire before his time, and winter in his forts, not daring to shew himselfe in field: so as Viriatus did run ouer all the countrey at his pleasure, and ransomed the townes which would saue their corne, and other fruits which was readie to gather; else he set fire of it.

22 Claudius Vnimanus, Cl. Vnimanus defeated by Vi­riatus. an other Pretor, being sent against this captain, was also defeated, in­creasing the disgrace receiued by his predecessors: where he lost all the forces which he had brought. The rods and axes, the coats of armes of Captaines, and other spoyles taken from the Romans, were hung vp by Viriatus in the mountaines, in signe of his victories. And soone after 300 Lusitanians hauing encountred 1000 Romanes in a certaine strait, the Ro­manes lost 320 of their men, and the others but 70: besides, as the Romane horsemen pursued some Lusitanians on foot which retired, one of the troupe turning head, thrust a Romanes horse through with a pike, and presently strucke off the mans head with his sword; whereat the rest being amazed, they staied, and pursued not this Lusitanian, who retired softly mock­ing them.

23 After C. Vnimanus mention is made of C. Nigidius, who was sent Pretor into the further Spaine, and was as vnfortunate as the rest.

24 Q. Fabius Maximus, An. Romae 608. and L. Hostilius being Consuls, C. Lelius was sent Pretor into Spaine, against Viriatus, who mannaged the warre with great wisdome; but as the daunger increased, and manie people of Spaine moued with the valour and fortune of Viriatus rebelled, the Senat of Rome decreed that one of the Consuls should goe in person to that warre, with a Consular armie: so as Q. Fab. Maximus Aemilianus, Qu. Fab. Max. Consull sent a­gainst Viriatus. sonne to Paulus Aemilius (who subdued Perseus king of Macedonie) was sent thither; a Captaine instructed in the seuere discipline of 25 his father: who hauing leuied two legions of new souldiors, with some bands of their allyes, he led some 15000 foot, and 2000 horse into Spaine. Being arriued at Orsone, a towne in Spaine, he would not expose his new souldiors, which had not been tryed in any incounters, but kept them within their forts, and by little and little trayned them with light skirmishes: but Viriatus carried awaie both spoyle and honor for the first yeare. But Fabius charge being prolonged, and he remaining Proconsull in Spaine, supposing that his armie was now suffici­ently trayned,Qu. Fab. Max. defeats Viria­tus. he went to field, and vanquished Viriatus in a set battaile, tooke two townes from him, and pursued him to a place called Becor. After this exploit hee led his armie to winter at Cordoue.

26 Viriatus finding himself neither so safe nor so strong as he was wont, he solicited the A­reuaces, Belles, and Titthes, a warlike people, and drew them from the Romanes alliance. These did raise a long and dangerous warre, which was called the Numantine, by reason of Numance one of their townes. Viriatus had Quintius, a Romane captaine, against him in an other quarter, by whom he was put to rout, & forced to retire into his fort on mount Venus: yet making roads from thence hee slue 1000 of Quintius souldiours at one time, tooke some ensignes, and in the end made the enemies armie retire: besides, he chased away the garrison which was in Ituca, and spoyled the Basitans country: during which disorders Quin­tius kept himselfe within Cordoue, either for cowardise, or want of judgement, sending a captaine of the towne of Italique in Spaine against the enemie. Q. Metellus the Consull, was sent into Celtiberia, who subdued the Vacceans with great expedition, and continued his gouernment aboue a yeare.

[Page 100] 27 Q. Fab. Maximus Seruilianus, Ann. Rom [...] 610 being Consul, succeeded Quintius, and went into Spaine with an armie according to his dignitie, making about 16000 foot and 1600 horse: he also sent to Micipsa king of the Numidians for elephants. As this Consull conducted a part of his armie to Ituca, Viriatus came and charged him with 6000 men, making horrible cries, and wearing long locks, after the accustomed manner of these barbarians in their warres, whom the Romanes withstood with great difficultie:The Consul Ser­uilianus defeats Viriatus in Spaine and is but to rout by him. but when as the rest of their armie was ioyned with them; and that ten elephants were arriued out of Lybia with 300 horses, the Consul Ser­uilianus went and prouoked the enemie to fight, vanquished him, and put him to flight: yet he could not so well conteyne his men, but they pursued in disorder and confusion, as it fals out often: so as Viriatus watchfull vpon all occasions, turned head vpon them that pursued, slue a great number, and pursued the rest vnto their campe: the which he attempted to force, and without the vertue of Fannius, Fannius defends the Romane campel from Vi­riatus. father in law to C. Lelius, he had entred; to the totall ruine of the Romane armie. Night approching, made the enemie retire, leauing the Romanes much troubled and amazed. But afterwards Viriatus, a man without rest, molested them day and night, sometimes by his souldiours lightly armed, sometimes by his horsemen, vntill that he forced the Consull to dislodge, and to retyre to Ituca. Then he tooke the waie of Lusi­tania, being in some extremitie for want of victuals, and his forces decreasing. The Consull following him, and not able to ouertake him, made warre against the Beturians, dwelling in the countrie which is now called Extrema Dura: and caused fiue townes to be sackt, for that they had giuen ayde and fauour to Viriatus: then he retires to Cunes, from whence he mar­ched soone after against Viriatus in Lusitania;The exploits of Qu. Fab. Max. Seruilianus as Proconsull. and incountring Curius and Apuleius, two captaines of theeues vpon the waie, hauing with them 10000 fighting men, the Romane armie was somewhat troubled; yet Curius was slaine in the fight: after which the Romanes got the aduantage, so as Seruilianus tooke Escadie, Gemelle, & Oboliola, by force, with other places held by the garrisons of Viriatus, whereof some were abandoned to the spoyle, others were pardoned: he tooke tenne thousand prisoners, whereof fiue hundred were beheaded, the rest he caused to be sould:Se [...]ere Executi­on of Spanish prisoners. and with this good fortune he retyred his armie the second time to winter, and then returned to Rome.

28 Q. C [...]cilius Metellus hauing prorogation of his charge in the hither Spaine or Celti­beria, in qualitie of Proconsull, he besieged Trebia, a rich towne of that countrey, the which he tooke by his politike stratagems. It happened during this siege, that fiue companies be­ing set in gard in a certaine place,Metellus seueri­tie against soul­diors whi [...]h had abandoned their gards. were dislodged by the enemie: Metellus shewed himselfe so seuere, as he would not receiue them, but commaunded them to returne to the place, vn­lesse they would be vsed as traitors, and as men that had abandoned the armie: the which he did to make them feele the paine of their cowardise, commaunding to cut them in pieces that should flie towards the campe. These souldiours forced by necessitie, shewed themselues valiant, and recouered the place from whence they had bin chased. Besieging Centobrica, the chiefe man within the towne, called Rhetogenes, retyred to the Romans campe, where­with the inhabitants being much incensed, they set this fugitiues children vpon the walles, whereas the Romanes engins did batter:His humanitie to poore Inno­cents. the which did so moue Metellus to pitie, as he left the siege, forbearing rather to take the towne, than to kill these poore innocent creatures, which act of humanity, did much daunt the Celtiberians, so as from that time they were more tractable. Being demaunded to what end hee made so manie turnings and windings with his armie, he answered, that if he thought his shirt knew his conceptions he would burne it. The glorie of his great exploits in Spaine, were blemished by the enuie he bare to Q. Pompeius his enemie, who he vnderstood should succeed him in his charge: to the end hee should find all things difficult, he gaue leaue to all souldiors that demanded it, without inquirie of the cause: he suffered them to spoyle the victuals and munition which remained;Metellus seekes to dishono [...]r his priuat enemie, with the preiu­dice of the pub­like. he commaunded the Candiot archers, to breake their bows and arrows, and did forbid to giue the elephants their ordinary allowance. Hauing thus satisfied his spleene, he did frustrat himselfe of his triumph, which hee had deserued by so many glorious deeds, knowing better how to surmount his e­nemies, then his owne choler.

29 Q. Fab. Maximus Aemilianus, or Seruilianus according vnto some, Proconsull, made warre in the meane time against Viriatus: and hauing taken a commander among the theeues called Connoba, by his voluntarie yeelding, he pardoned him: but he caused all his souldiours [Page 101] hands to be cut off,Fab. Max. doth cruelly execute the Spaniards. and afterwards punished as many of the reuolted as he could take, in the like manner. He besieged the towne of Erisane, into the which Viriatus found means to enter by night: from whence at the breake of day he sallied with great furie, with a troupe of their best men, and not onely chased away such as wrought in the ditches & trenches, but also some companies which were set there to gard them, with great slaughter: Yet Viriatus thinking now of the change of humane things, and of the miseries which doe often follow prosperitie, vsing his good fortune with modestie,Viriatus fauou­red by the Senat of Rome, who gaue him peace. he began to giue eare to conditions of peace, the which he obtained verie fauourable, both from the Proconsull and Senat, whom they called a friend to the people of Rome, and decreed, That such as had followed him, should enjoy the lands they then held: wherfore this dangerous war seemed to be ended, but soon after it was renued.

30 Q. Cepio Consul being come into the further Spaine,Anno Romae 613 successor to the Proconsul Q. Fa­bius, began to blame the capitulations made with Viriatus, as vnworthy of the honor & great­nesse of Rome, and had now got leaue of the Senat, to molest Viriatus vnder hand, that hee might take some subject to rebell. Then by his importune letters and many messages, hee ob­tained a decree,Qu. Cepio breaks the treatie made with Viriantus. to proclaime war against him: whereupon he went to besiege Arsa, the which yeelded, Viriatus hauing abandoned it. Who marched into Carpetania, which is the juris­diction of Toledo, spoyling and burning all he left behind him: yet hee was followed and o­uertaken by the Consull, but being a politique captaine, he would not hazard a battell, being but weake in regard of the Roman armie, but gaue leaue to most of his souldiors to slip away by certaine vallies couered with woods; and he himselfe in the meane time presented himselfe vnto the enemie in a strong place, with some troups to keepe them occupied, vntil he thought his men were retired into a place of safetie. Then he suddenly vanished by secret passages, best knowne to himselfe, leauing the Romans amazed which way he should fly. Cepio marching to­wards the Vectons, and the Callaiques, spoiled their fields. At the same time did rise other troups of theeues in Lusitania, after the example of Viriatus, against whom (according vnto some) Brutus was sent. Viriatus desiring to come vnto the former accord, foreseeing that in the end he should not be able to resist the Roman power, sent Audax, Ditalcon, and Minure, three of his most familiar friends, vnto Cepio, to treat an accord with him: but Cepio corrupted them with great gifts and promises,Barbarians easie to corrupt with money. persuading them to murther their captaine; the which they did execute in this manner. Viriatus was one that slept little, and for that hee would be readie for all accidents, he slept most commonly armed, giuing free accesse in the night to all his friends. Audax and his confederats imbracing this opportunitie, came into his tent, vnder colour of speaking with him concerning some great affaires: and finding him asleepe all armed but the throat, they stabd him in that place, and slew him. And then without any noise (being assured they had dispatched him) they retired to the Consul Cepio: Viriatus trea­cherously mur­thered to the dishonour of the Romans, and of the Consul Cepio Traitors decei­ued by him that suborned them. who gaue them leaue to enjoy the possessions which they then held, but as for gifts and recompences which he had promised, he sent them to the Senat. At the breake of day, Viriatus seruants and the whole armie, wonder­ing that he slept so long, contrarie to his custome, some going in, found him wallowing in his owne bloud; which filled the whole campe with griefe & teares, who besides their heauinesse for the vnworthy death of so valiant a man, they were in care of their own preseruations, and for the dangers which did inuiron them. Besides, they were the more discontented, that the traitors were escaped. Wherefore taking his bodie, and wrapping it in a rich cloth, they laid it vpon a high pile, and hauing sacrificed many beasts, they did celebrate his funerals, after their manner, the souldiors both horse and foot running about the fire, and filling the aire with the name of Viriatus, vntill the fire had consumed all: after which in memorie of his name, they had sword plaiers which did fight for their liues. Thus Viriatus ended his dayes, being desired and lamented of all his souldiors,Viriatus lamen­ted of his souldi­ours for his va­lour and bounti [...] for that in war he was the first in danger, but when it came to diuide the spoyles, he was but equall, & it may be inferiour to all the rest: and he had that hap­pinesse aboue most captaines, that hauing an armie of diuers nations, he led them to the wars for the space of eight yeares, without any mutinie or sedition among his souldiors; who in Vi­riatus place chose Tantalus for their captaine, verie contrarie to him in manners and vertue. This fact did purchase no lesse infamie to Cepio, than to the traitours which did execute it. Tantalus was so prest by him, as he left both armes and armie, vpon composition, to whom there were certaine lands appointed; so as for a time the Lusitanians contained themselues in peace.

THE FOVRTH BOOKE OF the Historie of Spaine.

• 1 WArre ill managed by Q. Pompeius against the Numantines.
• 2 The exploits of M. Pompilius Lenas his successour.
• 3 The deeds of D. Brutus in Lusitania and Galatia.
• 4 The miseries of Mancinus and his companion M. Aemilius Lepidus, in the Numantine warre.
• 5 The gouernment of P. Furius Philus, by whom Mancinus was deliuered vnto the Numantines.
• 6 The Numantine warre ended by P. Scipio Emilianus.
• 7 The expedition of Q. Caecilius Metellus, and his victories in the islands of the Baleares.
• 8 The gouernment of C. Marius and other Pretors in Spaine, vnto L. Corn. Dolabella.
• 9 The acts of the Consull T. Didius.
• 10 Fuluius Flaccus.
• 11 Retrait of M. Crassus, flying the Romane sedition in Spaine.
• 12 Sertorius warre in Spaine, begun by Q. Caecilius Metellus, and ended by Pompey.
• 13 Death of Cn. Piso in Spaine.
• 14 Gouernments of Calid. Tubero, and C. Iul. Caesar.
• 15 Pompey perpetuall Proconsul in Spaine.
• 16 Caesar disarmes Afranius and Petreius in Spaine.
• 17 Caesar constraines M. Varro to yeeld vnto him.
• 18 Warre betwixt Caesar and Pompeyes children.
• 19 Lepidus triumphes for Spaine, hauing done no exploit of warre there.
• 20 The deeds of Augustus in Spaine, and the absolute conquest thereof.
• 21 Spaine vnder Tiberius.
• 22 Christian religion preached in Spaine.
• 23 Saint Iames sonne to Zebedee.
• 24 Seneca and other learned Spaniards put to death by Nero.
• 25 Galba, Otho, Vitellius, Vespasian, Titus, Domitian, and the persecutions of the Church of God vnder them.
• 26 Cocceius, Nerua, Traian, and his edict to ruine the forts of Spaine.
• 27 The peopling of Spaine by Iewes, vnder Adrian.
• 28 Spaine vnder the Antonines.
• 29 The Empire of Seuerus, Caracalla, and others vnto Claudius.
• 30 The enterprises of Tetricus vpon Spaine and the Gaules.
• 31 Spaine vnder Aurelian, Tacitus, and others, vnto Dioclesian.
• 32 Cruelties of Dioclesian against the Church of God, and of his companions in the Empire, and their ends.
• 33 Constantine the Great his children, with Iulian and Iouinian, Emperors.
• 34 Valentinian and Valence, vnder whom the Gothes inuaded the Roman Empire in the East.
• 35 Theodosius, Arcadius, and Honorius, his children, vnder whom the Gothes assailed Italie, and the prouinces of the Westerne Empire.

[Page 103] 1QVintus Pompeius Aulus Consull, in the yeare 612 comming very late in his Prouince, and hauing receiued an armie but in bad equipage from the hands of Q. Metellus, he went to beseech the Numantines; for of all the townes against whom Metellus had made warre, only Numan­tia and Thermancia continued in armes: Thermancia was strong by nature, situated among the woods and betwixt two riuers, and there­fore of hard accesse:Numantia at­tempted in vain by Qu. Pom­peius. wherefore hee went first to Numantia, in the which there were eight thousand of the best and most resolute souldiours that were in all Spaine, as the Romanes found by experience. The Romane armie was in all about thirtie thousand foot and two thousand horse. Being at this siege, the Romane forragers were char­ged by a suddaine sally of the besieged, so as many of them were slaine vpon the place. Pom­pey was then absent; who being aduertised of this rout, hasted to the campe: but the Numan­tines notwithstanding his diligence retired without losse, and continued daily to skirmish with the souldiours, and to haue the aduantage: wherewith Pompey being discontented, he left it, and would attempt Thermancia, to see if he could repaire his honour, and get some profit: but he lost seuen hundred of his best men at the first encounter, and they chased a Colonel, which conducted victuals to the campe. Soone after hee had a third rout, with the losse of many horse and foot, and with such an amazement of all the rest of the armie, as they stood all night in armes; and day being come, the Thermantines running vnto their trenches, and pro­uoking the enemie, they fought with equall aduantage all day long, vntill night. Whereup­on Pompey did also dislodge from thence,Qu. Pompeius retyres from Thermancia. and marched towards Malia, a little towne held by a garrison of the Numantines; the which was yeelded by the treason of the inhabitants, ha­uing slaine the souldiors which were set there to gard it: where hauing left some companies, after that he had disarmed the inhabitants, he marched towards Sedetane, to defend it from the spoyles of Tangin, captaine of the theeues, whom he defeated and tooke prisoner, with a great number of his souldiors, but he could neither draw ranson nor seruice from them: for these Barbarian captiues entred into such a rage,The Barbaria [...] impatient of seruitude, kil them­selues. as in a manner they all slew themselues, or murthered their masters which had bought them; being vnable to endure seruitude: yea, some were so malicious, as passing the riuers, they made holes in boats, so as they sunke with their burthens. After all this, Pompey would needs returne to Numantia, where he sought to di­uert the course of the riuer of Duero, which passed along the towne, that hee might cut off their passage for victuals. The inhabitants and souldiors within the towne fighting against his designes, repulsed both them that were at worke, and those that garded them, or that came to succour them; and in many skirmishes and sallies they slew many Romane horsemen, with Oppius, a Colonell of a thousand foot: and in another place, at a trench which the Romanes had made, the Numantines sallying forth suddainely, slew foure hundred men, with the ouer­seer of the worke.

During these exploits, there arriued certaine Romane Senatours at the campe, with some new bands, to supply the places of the old souldiors, which desired to be dismissed, hauing ser­ued six yeares in those warres. Pompey being ashamed of his bad successe, did that which his predecessors had not yet done, continuing his siege before Numantia all the Winter: so as many which were not accustomed to the raine, snow, and cold of that Region, died of collicks and paine in their bellies. Besides, he had another rout, seeking to succour his souldiors which were gone to forrage, whereas he lost many, as well of the Roman nobilitie, as of priuat soul­diors: so as tyred and wasted with so many losses, he was forced to retyre and to lodge his ar­mie, attending him that should come to succeed him in the Spring.Negligence and cowardise of captaines puni­shed sometimes at Rome. But fearing to be censu­red, for that hee had managed that warre so ill, hee resolued to make a kind of composition with them of Numantia: who being much weakened with the miseries which they had endu­red, and fearing they should be distressed for victuals, liuing in a barren countrey, they consen­ted to send embassadours to Pompey, who in open shew demaunded, That they should yeeld vnto the Romanes discretion;Dissimulation of Pompey to couer his faults. but vnder hand he graunted many of their demaunds, draw­ing from them some talents, certaine hostages, and them that were reuolted. There remai­ned yet some part of the composition money to pay, for the which Pompey stayed,Ann. Romae 614 when as M. Popilius Lenas a Consull arriued in Spaine to succeed him. Then Pompey being freed from the care of the warre,Pompey doth impudently de­ceiue the Nu­mantines. denied that he had accorded any thing vnto the Numantines, notwith­standing [Page 104] 2 that many captaines and Romane Senatours did affirme the contrarie: Whereupon Popilius sent this controuersie to Rome vnto the Senat,Popilius Lenas vnfortunat in the warre of Numantia. whereas the embassadours of Numan­tia and Pompey did plead: but the Senate was of opinion not to confirme any thing that Pom­pey had done, and that the warre should continue against the Numantines. Popilius then con­tinuing warre against them, did nothing that was memorable, although his charge were pro­longed, but lost his honour, and many good souldiors.

3 During his time,Ann. Rom [...]e 615 the Lusitanians hauing rebelled againe, D. Iunius Brutus was sent into the further Spaine. Others say, That he did execute that which followes, vnder the Consull Q. Cepio, and that he was sent by him as his Lieutenant, by reason of the distance of places be­twixt the riuers of Betis, Anas, Tagus, Durius, and Lethes, by the which the theeues escaped, and made suddaine incursions, not onely molesting them that pursued them, but also putting them out of hope to take them,Exploits of D. Brutus the Consul. by reason of the strength of the places. Brutus therfore tooke this course, he would not trouble himselfe in running after these nimble fellowes, who knew all the meanes to escape; but went directly to their owne countrey, that he might in one expe­dition both punish them, and enrich his souldiors with their spoyles; assuring himselfe, they would come to defend their holes: wherein he was nothing deceiued: for both men and wo­men came running to repulse the Romane armie, fighting with a desperat furie: so as being halfe dead,The obstinate courage of the Barbarians. dismembred, or couered with wounds, they were neuer heard grone: yet many lesse couragious, taking vp as much as they could carrie, fled to the mountaines, whom Brutus afterwards (vpon their suite) pardoned. Hauing passed the riuer of Duero, he subdued many people,Brutus the first Roman that en­tred with an ar­my into Galicia. and tooke hostages, and was the first of all the Romans which led an armie beyond the riuer of Lethes, called Limia, where he assayled the Brecaires, a people of Galicia, who had spoiled the victuallers comming to his campe. This nation was accustomed to lead their wiues to the warre,Women in Spain warriors and valiant. and both men and women did fight so obstinately, as they were neuer seene to turne their backs, nor cast out any cries vnworthie of souldiors for any wounds which they re­ceiued. The women that were taken prisoners, slew themselues and their children, rather than to be slaues. Many of their towns and retreats yeelded vnto Brutus, but he was constrained to subdue them againe; for finding him somewhat retyred, they rebelled againe. The inhabi­tants of Talabrica in another part of the prouince made triall of the magnanimitie and cle­mencie of the auncient Romanes: for being often reuolted, and hauing abused the pardon which he had giuen them, Brutus hauing forced them to yeeld to his discretion, demaunded first the fugitiues, and then the prisoners taken in warre. Then he disarmed them, and tooke the chiefe among them for hostages: which done, hee made them all goe out of the towne, with their wiues and children, and hauing caused them to be enuironed by the armed bands, hee spake vnto them,Brutus magna­nimitie and cle­mencie to rebels. reproching them with their many rebellions and ingratitudes; for the which they attended no lesse than the sentence of death: but he ended his speech with repro­ches and bitter words, and then beyond all hope sent them home to their houses, depriuing them onely of their armes, horses, and other equipage for warre, and of their common trea­sure. They write, That he did assigne lands for them that had serued Viriatus in the warre, and that he gaue them the towne of Valence in Lusitania to dwell in.A worthy pu­nishment of a cowardly cap­taine. This yeare C. Matienus be­ing accused at Rome, That he had abandoned the army, whereof he had charge in Spaine, was beaten with rods, and sold for a Sesterce (which in our English money is a penny) by a decree of the people.

As for Popilius, who made warre against the Numantines, or rather they made warre against him, he returned to Rome, at the comming of the Consull C. Hostilius Mancinus, who was alto­gether vnfortunat in his enterprises; the which was signified vnto him by presages, before he came out of Italie: for as he tooke shipping at Port Hercules, there was a strange voice heard, saying,Hostilius Man­cinus vnfortu­nat is Spaine. Mancinus stay; and as hee tooke port at Genes, there was a great Snake found in his ship, the which escaped. He was beaten euery where by the Numantines, hauing thirtie thou­sand men in his armie. Being terrified with a bruit, That the Cantabrians and Vacceans came to succour Numantia, he fled in the night into desart places, whereas Nobilior had encamped in former time, and there without any munition or rampier, he was the next morning found and besieged by the enemie, and constrained to capitulate a peace with them vpon like condi­tions, ingaging his faith to make them be ratified by the Senate. Tib. Gracchus (who was af­terwards slaine) being Tribune of the people, then Questor in this armie, was the negotiator [Page 105] of this peace: who was so fauoured by the Numantines, as they hauing spoiled the Romanes campe, and among other things carried away the accompts, quittances, and other papers of Gracchus, Mancinus called to Rome to an­swer the ignomi­nious accord made with the Numantines. they restored them to him againe very willingly. Although this composition were ignominious, yet did it saue the liues of twentie thousand Romane citizens: Which being knowne at Rome, M. Aemilius Lepidus the other Consull was presently sent into Spaine, and Mancinus called home to Rome, to giue an account of his action, the Numantine warre re­maining for a time suspended. By reason whereof, M. Aemilius being impatient to remaine in the Prouince idle (for captaines neuer goe to the warre, but to get honour and profit) whilest that Mancinus processe was in hand, and that hee had receiued newes, hee began to molest the Vacceans,M. Aemilius the Consul attempts warre rashly against the Vacceans. saying, That they had relieued the Numantines, and vnder that pretext besieged Palantia, their chiefe towne, being strong and rich, calling D. Brutus his father in law to assist him at this worke, who had his charge proroged in qualitie of Proconsull of the further Spaine. The Senate aduertised hereof, sent Cinna and Caecilius embassadours into Spaine, to let him vnderstand, That the Romanes did not hold it conuenient (after so many losses) to attempt a new warre, and presented vnto him the Senates decree, by the which he was forbidden to make warre against the Vacceans. Aemilius (who had alreadie begun the siege) answered, That the Senate was not well informed how matters passed in Spaine, nor how that he had joyned his forces with those of Brutus: and that he was well assured, that the Vacceans had relieued the Numantines with victuals, men, and money: that if he should retyre in that sort, it would be a dishonour, and that many of their allies would take occasion thereby to quit the Romanes friendship, and to contemne them. With these reasons (the which the Consull did also write vnto the Senat) Cinna returned. Then did the Consull AEmilius Lepidus and Brutus the Proconsull busie themselues to plant many engines to bat­ter the towne, and to furnish their armie with victuals. Flaccus (who was Commissarie gene­rall of the campe) causing great store of corne to be brought, was surprised by the enemie, and so enclosed,The policie of Flaccu [...] Commis­sarie of the vi­ctuals. as it was impossible to escape: but he by a singular policie caused it to bee bruited among his troupes, That the Consull had taken Palantia, the which did so amaze the enemies, as with a foolish credulitie they quit their prey, and retyred. The siege of Palantia growing tedious, the Romane armie began to suffer so much, as both men and beasts peri­shed for hunger:A shamefull re­treat of two Romane [...] from before Palantia. so as in the end he was forced to leaue the siege, and retyre in the night, in great disorder: for there were many sicke men, who desired them not to abandon them to the enemies sword; which mooued all men to pitie: and therefore it was a great hinderance vnto the armie, being pursued by the Palantines: who loosing this wished opportunitie, re­turned, as if some Angell had stood before them, to preuent the totall ruine of the Romane armie: yet Paulus Orosius writes, That there were six thousand men slaine, and that the rest were put in rout,Aemilius Lepi­d [...] punished for his disobedience. and saued themselues without armes. M. Aemilius Lepidus being called to Rome by reason of these errours, was degraded and condemned in a great fine. Brutus conti­nuing in his charge of Proconsull in the further Spaine, spent much time to order things in his Prouince, and afterwards triumphed at Rome: he was afterwards called Callaique or Gallique, for that he had subdued the people of Gallicia.

As for the question betwixt Mancinus and the embassadours of Numantia,The Romanes discharged of their bonds, in deliuering the magistrates which made then. it was judged, That the accord made without the authoritie of the Senat should bee void, and they de­creed, That Mancinus, who was bound vnto the Numantines, should be deliuered vnto them, to dispose of him at their pleasure, after the example of the auncient Romanes, who had for the like offence deliuered twentie captaines vnto the Samnites. According vnto which de­cree, 5 Mancinus was brought into Spaine by P. Furius Philus or Philo, Consull in the yeare 617, and was deliuered by him naked and bound vnto the Numantines,Mancinu [...] deli­uered bound vn­to the Numan­tines. who refused him. This Furius in a brauerie made Q. Metellus and Q. Pompeius Consular men, and his enemies, come with him into Spaine, to serue him as his Lieutenants: and this yeare the warre was managed in Spaine with three Consular armies: but P. Furius did nothing that was me­morable. After whom, Q. Calphurnius Piso came into the Prouince: who hauing ouer­run the territorie of Palantia, and taken some little prey, hee spent the rest of his time shut vp in Carpetania: and this yeare the Romanes receiued a rout by them of the towne of Numantia.

[Page 106] 6 The people of Rome being wearie of this Numantine warre, which grew daily more difficult,Scipio Aemilia­nus sent into Spaine. in the yeare 619 they did chuse P. Corn. Scipio AEmilianus, called Africanus, Con­sull, for that some few yeares before hee had ruined the mightie citie of Carthage; vnto whom Spaine was giuen without lot: whither he went with some voluntaries, and a small number of his friends, being some foure thousand men; for Spaine had too many souldiors, and wanted onely good captaines. He gaue this troupe in charge to Buteon his nephew, and he himselfe went speedily before. Being arriued in Spaine, he found what he had heard be­fore; That the armie was very ill disciplined: Wherefore holding it a part of great wise­dome first of all to reforme the corrupt manners of the souldiors, as soone as he arriued, he chased out of the campe all merchants,Scipio reformes the armie. strumpets, tellers of fortune, and the new superstiti­ous sacrificers; to which things the souldiors were too much giuen: he cut off their carts and baggage, forbidding them to bring any thing into the campe that was not necessarie. He did forbid beds, and he himselfe gaue example vnto others, lying vpon couerings spred vpon girts. Finally, he set such an order among the souldiours (submitting himselfe vnto the rigour of his owne ordinances, as in a short time they became modest, temperat, and obedient. Then hee began to traine them in warlike exercises, remoouing his campe of­ten, whereas he caused the souldiours to digge and make rampiers, himselfe being alwaies present, from the day breake to the Sunne set; and commonly he made them to march in a square battaile,The pattern [...] of a good and wise captaine. punishing any one that went out of his ranke. Hee went about his ar­mie to see if they marched in good order, and if he found any sicke or tyred, he set them on horsebacke, causing others to alight: and he was no lesse just vnto beasts: for if there were any horses ouerladen, he distributed their superfluous burthens among the footmen, Hee appointed euery man his charge and office, and limitted a time for the finishing of their workes, which they might not neglect. When as he found his souldiours sufficient­ly inured to labour, and accustomed to obey their commaunders, then he came to encampe neere vnto Numantia, whereas he would not lodge his armie in quarters,A good begin­ning is of great importance in matters of war. as others be­fore him had done, but kept it all vnited, that the enemie should get no aduantage of him in the beginning; the which is of great consequence. He had no will to suffer any one to goe foorth to skirmish, vntill he was well informed how to make warre with that people, of the opportunities he must seeke, and of their manner of proceeding, their counsels and resolutions; keeping the enemie by that meanes from straying abroad, and maintaining the countrey, which was behind his armie, assured for his forragers: saying alwayes, That light skirmishes affected vpon brauerie, without necessitie, should bee rejected by a wise and expert captaine, who should respect nothing but necessitie, profit, and occasion, and then he should shew himselfe courageous and hardie. When as he saw a conuenient time, hee marched with his armie, and taking a great circuit, he came and encamped in the ter­ritorie of the Vacceans, from whence the Numantines had their victuals. There hee wa­sted the countrey, burning all that could not serue to feed his armie. Not farre from Pa­lantia is a place called Coplain,The Palantihes mightie among the Spaniards. where behind a hill the Palantines had lodged a great troupe of men, hauing in the meane time sent out some companies against the Ro­manes, which went to forrage the countrey: for whose gard Scipio sent Rutilius Rufus with foure bands of horsemen, who repulsed the enemie, but with such an inconsiderat heat, as they were carried pell-mell vnto the top of the hill, where they discouered the enemies which lay in ambush: Then Rufus commaunded his men to make a stand, and to cease their pursute, for they were to defend themselues: from which danger they were freed by the Consull Scipio, who arriued with the rest of the horsemen: for hearing that the enemie began to flye at the sight of Rufus, hee doubted there was some strata­geme. Being aduertised, that there were some ambushes prepared at the passage of the riuer, which was full of mud, he tooke another way, and spared not his souldiors paines to free them from danger.The [...] of Scipio. In this long and drie passage he digged Wells for to ease his souldiors, being oppressed with the violent heat, but they found the waters bitter. In the end he came into a more fertile countrey, with the losse onely of some horses and beasts of carriage.

Passing by the territorie of Cauca, whereas Lucullus had made that great slaughter, hee [Page 107] made proclamations,Scipio repaires Lucullus faultes. That the Caucians which were absent might returne freely to their lands, and from thence he led his armie to winter in the territorie of the Numantines, where­as Iugurthe, grand child to Massinissa, came vnto him, bringing certaine companies of archers and casters with slings, with twelue Elephants. In this place some Romanes forraging and spoyling the neighbour countrey, were surprised in a Bourg, behind the which the enemies lay hidden in a valley; who were repulsed by Scipioes speedie comming to assist them, but he had no will to pursue them. Approching soone after to Numantia, he besieged it with two campes; one of the which was commaunded by Q. Fab. Maximus his brother. There the be­sieged made many sallies, prouoking the Romanes to skirmish: but the Consull laughed at them, saying, it had beene a great indiscretion in him to fight with desperat and mad men, whom he was assured to take in a short time by famine. He vndertooke to cast a ditch and a rampier of a league and a halfe compasse about the towne:Scipio shut [...] vp the Numantines for the defence of which worke, hauing set gards in conuenient places, he commaunded euery man to be carefull in his quar­ter, and that when as the enemie should offer to charge in one place, that suddainely they should in the day time hand vp a red cloth on a pike, and in the night make a fire, that he and his brother might come to succour them. This worke being finished, without it he drew ano­ther ditch, making a wall with piles, of eight foot broad and ten high, the which he flanked with towers a hundred and twentie foot one from another: and for that there was a marish ground on the one side, he caused a causey to bee raysed of the height of this wall, which joyned vnto it. The riuer of Duero running through these rampiers, brought great com­moditie to the besieged; for that way men went both in and out, and boats entred by fauour of the wind and swiftnesse of the streame:Scipio seekes to take away the vse of the riuer from the Nu­mantines. to take away the vse whereof, Scipio built two forts vpon the bankes, from the which he cast pieces of timber into the water, from one banke vn­to the other, in the which were fastened great pikes of yron, which went very deepe into the water; and these beames were so tied together, as they did turne continually with the force of the streame, so as not any one could passe, either by boat or swimming: for Scipio held it a good course to amaze the enemie, to take from him all meanes to haue intelligence from abroad, and withall to cut off his victuals. For the gard of these fortifications hee appointed thirtie thousand men, being the one halfe of his armie; to succour the which, hee ordai­ned twentie thousand more, reseruing the other tenne thousand for a third supplie: which vpon a signe giuen should come vnto their quarters, without confusion. The Numantines attempted often to force these rampiers, but they found too great resistance, the Consull himselfe going the round day and night, and visiting the whole circuit, being almost two leagues; making his account, that the enemie wanting victuals, armes, and succours, could not long hold out. Matters being in this estate, Rhetogenes, surnamed Caraunius, one of the chiefe and most resolute men within the towne,Resolution of Rhetogene [...] the Numantine. aduentured with fiue of his friends, and so many seruants, all well mounted, to come in a darke night vnto the enemies rampiers, where they mounted and slew the enemies sentinels, and with certaine engines which they carried, passed ouer their horses: hauing sent their seruants backe, they dispersed them­selues in the countrey of the Areuaces, where they besought those people, That as friends, kinsmen, and allies to the Numantines, they would succour them. Many fearing the Romanes, commaunded them to depart out of their countries, refusing to heare them: but the young men of Lutia, a rich towne, some tenne leagues from Numantia, pitying these poore creatures besieged, did solicite the people to relieue them: whereof Scipio be­ing aduertised by the auncients of the towne, went thither with some troupes, and within eight houres space shewed himselfe about their walls, commaunding, That the chiefe of these seditious young men should bee deliuered vnto him, threatening (if they fayled) to sacke their towne:Scipioes [...] execution upo [...] rebel. so as no excuse preuailing, about foure hundred were brought vnto him, whose hands hee caused to bee cut off, and the next day returned to the campe. The Numantines prest with hunger and all other extremities, sent fiue of their citizens vnto Scipio, to vnderstand if hee would receiue them vpon any reasonable conditions. Aua­rus, the chiefe of this embassage,An [...]ill aduised and importune embassadour. comming before him, began to discourse of the vertues and generous disposition of the Numantines, with high wordes maintaining, That it should not bee imputed vnto them for a crime, if they had so eagrely defended their li­berties, their wiues and children, for the which they were now fallen into that calamitie. [Page 108] Wherefore (said he) it is reasonable, ô Scipio, that (according to thy singular vertue) thou pardon our braue and valiant race, and that thou propound vnto vs such honest conditions, as we may endure them: for it is in thy power to haue the towne by this meanes, or to trie what souldiours (who esteeme their libertie more than their liues) can doe. To whom Scipio made no other answere, but that they must deliuer themselues, their towne, their armes, and all they had, at his discretion, for he was sufficiently aduertised by prisoners, in what estate they were. When this answere was brought vnto the besieged (although they expected no better) they entred into such a rage a­gainst these poore deputies,Brutish furie of the Barbari­ans. as they cut them in pieces, being jealous that they had made some agreement with the Romanes for their owne particular. Then resoluing vpon all extre­mities, after that their victuals were consumed, hauing deuoured raw hides, and such like things, in the end they fed vpon dead mens flesh: and they fell into such miserie, as the stron­ger oppressed the weaker,Miseries of a place besieged. euery man regarding his own particular, being also consumed with pestilent diseases, which grew through the extremities which they endured, and from the cor­ruption and stinke of dead carkasses. Wherefore vanquished with all these calamities, in the end they tooke counsell to yeeld, and came and presented themselues to Scipio like hideous suppliants,Numantines reduced to ex­tremitie. deformed, filthy, and torne; their haire and beards long, clotted and staring, resem­bling rather sauage beasts than reasonable creatures: whom Scipio commaunded to deliuer vp their armes that day, and the next day they should all yeeld themselues in a certaine place ap­pointed them. To this they demaunded a dayes respite, for that many were yet remaining within the towne, being resolued to die rather by the sword or famine, than to yeeld, but vp­on honest conditions. So being returned, and hauing consulted what was to be done, they resolued, after they had once glutted themselues with that small store which remained, they would sallie out vpon the enemie, and die fighting vertuously for their countrey. But Scipio knowing, that he had to deale with mad men, restrained his souldiors all he could: the which did the more enflame the Numantines, who notwithstanding all that he could doe, issued forth, and forced the Romanes to defend themselues, hauing great need to bee commaunded by a wise and valiant captaine; for they were more than once forced to fight flying: yet in the end the Numantines were repulsed, hauing lost their best men; notwithstanding they retired without disorder:Despaire of the Numantines. their last remedie was to flye out of the towne with their armes: but that being stopt, they shut their gates, and slew one another, by sword, poyson, or fire, and by all o­ther kinds of deaths: so as Scipio entring into the towne, he found all consumed with fire, and not a man liuing. Others write, That Scipio burnt and rased the towne without the consent of the Senate, and not the Numantines, for the hatred which he did naturally beare to them, which he tooke by force: besides that, by the destruction of such famous townes he made his renowme greater, or else that he held it to be expedient & profitable for the Commonweale: they said also, That but some of them slew themselues, and the rest were sold for slaues, onely fiftie were reserued, to lead them in triumph.

Thus the taking of Numantia is diuersly written, the which did so long resist the Romans, and gaue them so many routs, hauing in the beginning but eight thousand men, the which in the end were reduced to lesse than foure thousand; which notwithstanding did greatly impor­tune their enemies. The territorie of Numantia was afterwards diuided among the neigh­bour people; and Scipio (being then Pro-consull) hauing visited the countrey, and done right to all men, punishing the inconstant allies by words or threats, and some by pecuniarie fines, he returned to Rome,Ann. Romae 621 where in one yeare he triumphed of the Numantines, and D. Brutus of the Lusitanians and Gallicians. The Senat deputed ten Senators to go into Spaine, to dispose of the affaires of that Prouince. Thus the troubles were pacified, without any alteration for some yeares.

7 In the yeare 630, Q. Caecilius Metellus and T. Quintius Flaminius being Consuls, the in­habitants of the Islands of the Baleares, which we call Maiorca and Minorca, liuing by pyracie and theeuing by sea, ministred occasion to the Romanes to send the Consull Metellus, eldest sonne to him that was called Macedonicus, who after a great slaughter of these theeues brought them to a more ciuile life;Metellus makes warre against the Maiorquin [...]. where hauing left some Colonies of Romans, he trium­phed at Rome.

8 C. Marius (he that was afterwards seuen times Consull) about the yeare 640 had the charge of the further Spaine as Pretor, where hee cleansed the whole countrey of theeues: [Page 109] which trade those people could not forget, holding it in old time to be very honourable. Q. Seruilius Caepio was also sent with the like charge, who fought with the Lusitanians, and did triumph. A while after there did arise new tumults among the Celtiberians: for the appea­sing whereof Calphurnius Piso was sent, and after him Sergius Galba, Pretors: but for that the Romanes were much troubled with the warres of Italie, as well against the Cimbrians (a nati­on comming from the borders of the Northerne Ocean) as against the slaues which were in armes againe, and forraged Sicile, they sent certaine Commissioners to pacifie the troubles without armes, if it might be. These Cimbrians being vanquished a little before by the Con­sull Carbo, had fallen vpon the Gaules and Spaine, from whence they had beene repulsed, and in the yeare 644 returned againe to inuade Italie, where they defeated the armie of M. Syllanus Consull:Anno 648. but the Lusitanians in the yeare 648 (P. Rutilius Rufus and C. Manilius being Con­suls) defeated a Romane armie:The Lusitanians reuolt and de­feat the Romans. the Authors speake not of his name that was the Generall, nor of his that was sent to suppresse them, in the yeare 652, who subdued them. It may be it was D. Iunius Silanus. And they stayed not long to minister matter of triumph to the Romane captaines, hauing rebelled againe in the yeare 654, against whom L. Corn. Dolabella a Pretor was sent, who vanquished them and triumphed. The Consull T. Didius, at the same time, af­ter that the Cimbrians had beene driuen out of Italie, hauing had the gouernment of Spaine 9 about Ebro,Thermise taken and rased by T. Didius Consul. slew in battaile 20000 Areuaces and Vacceans, and tooke the towne of Ther­mise, which was great and strong by situation, commaunding the inhabitants for a punish­ment of their ordinarie rebellion to dwell in the plaine, and not to inwall themselues: after seuen moneths siege hee also tooke the towne of Colenda, and sold the inhabitants. Other people of the Celtiberians continuing in their theeuing, were by him condemned to die, by the aduice of tenne Commissioners, which were then in Spaine for the people of Rome. Ha­uing then gathered them together, vnder colour that he would giue them land to manure, he caused them to be enuironed by his souldiors, and cut in pieces: for which deeds he triumphed at his returne to Rome.Qu. Sertorius. In the armie of this T. Didius was at that time Q. Sertorius, who had charge of 1000 men, a man of judgement and valour, whereof he made good proofe, when as vnder this Consul Didius, the Castalonians attempted, with the help of them of Girize, to cut his regiment in pieces which wintred in their town, for that during the tumult he rallied them together which escaped the slaughter, with the which he reuenged the death of his souldiors, putting all the conspirators which he found armed to the sword: & hauing attired some of his men with their apparrell and armes, he marcht speedily towards Girize, where being let in by reason of this disguising, he made a great slaughter of the inhabitants, and sold the rest.

10 The Lusitanians and people of the further Spaine in the yeare 656 drew against them the Consull P. Licinius Crassus, Fuluius Flaccus defeats the Cel­tiberians. who triumphed in like manner. And in the yeare 659 Fuluius Flaccus being sent against the Celtiberians, who had rebelled, he slew 20000 in battell, and re­strained the rest by justice, euen those which had burnt their owne Senators, opposing them­selues against the rebellion which they had intended; rasing and demanteling some townes. Spaine by means of these executions remained quiet, vntill the ciuile dissentions betwixt Ma­rius and Sylla, which ministred occasion of new warre.

11 Whilest this Marian sedition continued, M. Crassus hauing seene his father and brother slaine by Cinna and Marius, fled into Spaine, where he had been in time past at the warres with his father,A friend is tried in need. and there had gotten some friends: but finding that euerie one stood in feare of Marius, he retired to a countrey house belonging to Vibius Paciacus, where he hid himselfe in a caue, causing some to sound Vibius mind, who hearing that Crassus was escaped, he caused him to be secretly fed there eight moneths by a slaue of his, vnto the death of Cinna.

12 After the ciuile warre betwixt Marius and Sylla, the infection of this madnesse past into Spaine,Sertorius warre in Spaine. by the means of Q. Sertorius, who hauing held the partie of Cinna and Marius, after the defeats of Carbo, Scipio and Norbanus by Sylla, he retired into Spaine, where he had been vnder the Consull Didius, and there he fortified himselfe against the enterprises of the Dictator Syl­la, causing Iulius Salinator to keepe the passages of the Pyrenee mountaines, with 6000 foot, but it was not long before that Sylla sent C. Annius, who not able to force the enemie in a place of such aduantage, obtained the passage by the death of Salinator, whom Calphur­nius Lanarius (that did maligne him) slew in treason. This made Sertorius retyre, who had but three thousand men remaining in new Carthage, from whence he passed into Affricke, [Page 110] and from thence the barbarians chased him: afterwards thinking to returne, he was repul­sed from landing in Spaine: wherefore he seazed vpon one of the islands of Pytiuses, in dis­pight of C. Annius garrison: but he was chased from thence also, so as being accompanied with some foists of Cicilian pirats, he was forced to put out to sea for some daies. In the end he passed the strait,Settorius ha­uing endured manie crosses, re­solues to goe and liue at the for­tunat islands at Canaries. and put to land aboue the mouth of the riuer of Betis, where hauing information by some mariners of the fortunat islands, he began to resolue to liue there in rest: whereupon these pirats disliking his designe, abandoned him, and put themselues in pay vnder a Moore, named Ascalius, who contended with an other for the kingdome of the Ma­rusians, whose partie Sertorius maintained. Comming to fight Ascalius was defeated, and after him one of Syllias captaines, called Paccianus, who came to succo [...]r him: after which As­calius was besieged in the towne of Tingis, and taken. By this good successe Sertorius augmented his armie with the remainders of the vanquished enemies souldiors, which came to serue vnder him. He did so win the harts of the Moores, vsing this victorie modestly, as they were afterwards al at his commandment: but as he was in great care what course to take, there came embassadors vnto him from the Lusitanians,Sertorius called by the Lusitani­ans. intreating him to be their Generall; for that the Romans of Syllas partie made war against them, and therefore they had need of a man of judgment & experience, which honor they did according to his merits offer vnto him: vpon which summons he left Africke, leading with him about 2500 souldiors, which he cal­led Romans, & yet they were for the most part Africans; with the which hauing ioyned 4000 Lusitanians and 700 horses,What forces were against Sertorius in Spaine. he made head against foure great Romane captaines, vnder whom there were aboue 120000 foot and 6000 horses, and had in a manner all the townes of Spaine at their deuotion.

At the beginning of this war,Cotta, Didius and Thoranius defeated by Ser­torius. he defeated Cotta in a sea fight, neere vnto the towne of Mel­laria, and put to rout Didius or Fidius, Pretor of Betica, neere vnto the riuer of Betis, where he slue 10000 of his men: and by the diligence of his Questor Hertuleius, he also defeated Tho­ranius, lieutenant to the Consull Q. Metellus Pius, to whom that prouince was assigned in the yeare 673. Afterwards he had to deale with Metellus himselfe, and did so annoy him being a great and an expert captaine, as Manlius the Proconsull of Gaule was forced to come to his succours, with three legions and 1500 horse: but Manlius being encountred by Hertuleius Sertorius Questor,Sertorius de­feats Manlius, and kils L. Do­mitius. was defeated, put to flight, and forced to saue himselfe in a manner alone within Lerida. L. Domitius was more vnfortunat, who was slain vpon the place in an other in­counter: all which exployts were done by surprises, and in flying or retiring, the Romane cap­tains not being able to draw Sertorius to fight in a pitcht field: whereupon the Senat of Rome, considering that Metellus age (which was somewhat aduanced) made him more slow, and therefore not fit to incounter Sertorius, who was in the flower of his age, accompanied with souldiours as light as the wind, inured to labour, hunger, thirst, and all the discommodities of war,Pompey sent in­to Spaine to as­sist Metellus. were of opinion to send Cn. Pompeius vnto him, as an assistant & companion with like au­thoritie. In the mean time Metellus besieged the towne of the Langobriges, thinking to take it without difficultie, for want of water, knowing there was but one onely well in the whole towne: but Sertorius prouided for this inconuenience; for hauing promised a reward to such as would carrie goats skins filled with water, the Moores and other aduenturous people went in with a great quantitie: so as Metellus (who had victuals but for fiue daies) was forced to retyre, after that Aquinus one of his lieutenants, whom he had sent to forage with 6000 men, had bin defeated by Sertorius, who lay continually in ambush.

About that time M. Perpenna arriued in Spaine, with a great armie, the which he ioyned to that of Sertorius, not of his owne free will, meaning to make war apart, but by constraint, for that the souldiours hauing a better conceit of Sertorius than of him, would not follow him: which made Perpenna to enuie and hate Sertorius. Vertue [...] al­waies enuied. With these forces in a manner al Spaine be­yond Ebro, was conquered by him. When as Pompey was come to Metellus camp, many throgh his fame, which was great, began to doubt of Sertorius affaires, and manie townes which were allyed vnto him began to wauer; but that which hapned at Lauronne did confirme them: for Sertorius hauing besieged Lauronne,Lauronne besie­ged and taken by Sertorius in Pompeyes pre­sence. & Pompey comming thither to raise the siege, when as the armies were neere, & that Pompey expected to giue him battel, he perceiued that at one instant Sertorius held both the towne & his armie besieged; for he had lodged 6000 men behind Pom­peys army, watching an oportunitie to compasse him in, so as he was forced to be more carefull [Page 111] how to saue himselfe, than to deliuer the Lauronitanes, whose towne he did see taken & burnt before his face: the which Sertorius did, not vpon any crueltie (for in the whole course of his life he was neuer noted of that excesse, if it were not by constraint) but to let them know (who made so great esteeme of Pompey) that he knew more than he; whom he tearmed a yong man, and Syllaes disciple; and in this act of Lauronna, he said, That a wise captain doth alwaies looke more to that which is behind, than before. And to say the truth, Sertorius was one of the poli­tickst captaines of his time, as it appeared in this warre, whereas he maintained himselfe and those he led, alwaies inuincible, being neuer beaten but by his Lieutenants, through whose errors he receiued many prejudiciall losses: the which he repaired afterwards with great ho­nor, as the defeat of Hirtuleius by Metellus, neere vnto the towne of Italica, where he lost twen­tie thousand men.

After the taking of Lauronne, the armies of either side hauing wintered (the one in Lusita­nia, the other neere vnto the Pyrenees) they began to seeke one another: and it happened, that Pompey hauing encountred Herennius and Perpenna neere vnto Valence,Battell betwixt Pompey and Sertorius, wher­as Sertorius had the better. he defeated them, and in like sort Hirtuleius, who was slaine at that time: wherewith growne proud, he marched to­wards Sertorius, and without attending Metellus and his forces, hee came to fight with him, neere vnto the riuer of Sucro or Xucar, whereas Pompey was put to flight, and hurt. Metellus arriuing, caused Sertorius to retyre; with whom he did afterwards fight in the territorie of Sa­gunt, whereas Memmius, Pompeyes Questor, was slaine, and Metellus wounded: but Sertorius seeing that he had the worst, retyred himselfe cunningly, suffering himselfe to be besieged in the towne of Calaorre, a strong towne in a mountaine country, where he did more annoy the enemie, than they did him: in the meane time leuying men in the townes of his allies, hee made a furious sally, and dispersed his enemies; so as Metellus went to Winter in Gaule, and Pompey in the territorie of the Vacceans: where hauing besieged Palantia, Sertorius made him to rayse his siege. In this countrey Pompey found himselfe much distressed, so as he was forced to demaund money, clothes, and come for his armie, from the Senat, else hee should be forced to bring it backe into Italie: Whereupon the Consull Lucullus gaue order hee should be furnished, fearing, that if he brought his armie backe into Italie, he would sue vnto the people for a Commission to make warre against Mithridates, which charge hee affected.

During the Consulship of L. Lucullus and M. Cotta, Ann. 679. the Proconsuls Metellus and Pompey did all they could against the townes allied to Sertoriusi who did so terrifie them, as Metellus de­spairing euer to vanquish him with all the force of the Romans during his life, made a procla­mation by the sound of the trumpet, to giue 100 talents to him that could kill him, amounting to 60000 crownes,Sertorius life set to sale, con­trarie to the vertue of the ancient Romans. and besides, 20000 acres of land, if he were a Romane; if a banished man, restitution to all his goods and honours. The banished Senatours of Rome, which followed Sertorius army, did all malice their Generall, wherunto Perpenna (alwaies jealous of his glory) did still incite them: wherefore they began to crosse him vnder hand in many gallant designs, abusing the authoritie which Sertorius had giuen them ouer the Spaniards, proudly, couetou­sly and cruelly, vnder colour of justice, exacting extraordinarie tributes; so as many towns did mutine, and the loue which they did beare vnto Sertorius, was turned into hatred: wherefore Sertorius was forced (for the suppressing of many tumults which did arise) to shew himselfe seuere, against his owne nature,Sertorius grows cruell against his nature. and at the last became cruell: so as in the end he put to death many children of noble houses, whom he held in the towne of Osca, vnder colour to instruct them in learning, and to teach them the manners of the Romans; the which (to speake tru­ly) were so many hostages: and others he sold, to punish the infidelitie of the Spaniards, which he discouered daily; the which did much blemish the lustre of his vertues. Perpenna through his malice drew him to this excesse, and did procure him infinite enemies, as well Romanes as Spaniards, and hauing found many confederats, he conspired with Aufidius Grae­cinus, Manlius, Antonius, and others, to murther him; the which he put in execution, hauing inuited him to supper in his lodging,Perpenna and his adherents murther Serto­rius trecherously with the whole troupe of conspirators, where they stabbed him with their daggers. Such an end had this great captaine, by the treason of his owne followers; the which being published, all the people of Spaine sent embassadours vnto Metellus and Pompey, and yeelded vnto him. The inhabitants of Ebora attribute the foundation of their towne to Sertorius, where there are certaine inscriptions to bee seene, [Page 112] making mention, that he was buried there. He had many times made offer to Metellus, to lay aside armes, so as he might be called home by a publique decree: for he protested that he made not warre for the Spaniards greatnesse, but to maintaine the people of Rome, whom he loued and honoured: so as there is no doubt but he was of a mild and gentle disposition, but that necessitie had forced him to this contumacie and rebellion, and the violent and ambitious pursute of his fellow citizens. Perpenna thinking to doe some great exploit, made vse of Ser­torius forces,Perpenna puni­nished for his treason. but hee was deceiued: for it soone appeared, that he was not fit to commaund, being in a short time vanquished, taken, and slaine by Pompey. This traitor to redeeme his life, offered Sertorius papers vnto Pompey, where there were many letters from the Senatours of Rome, persuading Sertorius to passe with his armie into Italy: but Pompey tooke these papers, and would not once read them, but burnt them all, and so put Perpenna to death, to the end he should not name any one, nor reueale that which was contained in them; the which might haue raysed a new ciuile warre:Pompeyes wise­dome to extin­guish the ciuile warre. which was no act of a young man. Of all the towns in Spaine, Auxima, at this day Osma, and Calagurri, held out for a time against Pompey: but in the end they were taken by force and ruined; Auxima by Pompey, and Calagurri by Afranius: and so this Sertorian warre was ended: the last exploits whereof were about Osca and Ilerda in Ca­telogna, tenne yeares after the beginning thereof,Anno 682. in the yeare 682: in the which, Metellus and Pompey for their successefull exploits in Spaine triumphed. At that time Pompey was but a Ro­mane knight; and they say, That he afterwards erected his trophies in the Pyrenee mountains, where he caused to be written the names of 871 townes in his victories,Pompeyes tro­phies, and the beginning of Pampelone. among the which, he would not put that of Sertorius. This was the beginning of Pampelone, according vnto some. There were found in those dayes, in the vallies of Andorre and of Altauaca, certaine great buckles of yron, soldered into the rockes with lead, which were held to be the trophies of Pom­pey. A yeare after we find mention made of M. Puppius Piso Pretor, who triumphed also for some victories gotten in Spaine.

13 In the yeare 688 L. Aurelius Cotta and Lucius Manlius Torquatus being Consuls,Cn. Piso slaine in Spaine. Cn. Piso a young man, audacious, poore, and seditious, suspected to haue conspired with Cateline, was sent into Spain with charge (vnder pretext to do him honor, but the true cause was to get him out of Rome) where he was slaine, troubling the prouince with exactions, and other ex­cesse: 14 & some say it was plotted by Pompey. Then mention is made of Q. Calidius a Pretor in the yere 692: and after him, of Tubero in the further Spaine, who gaue the Prouince to Caius Iul. Caesar his Questor, in qualitie of Pretor, Q. Metellus and L. Afranius being Consuls at Rome, in the yeare 693 of the foundation thereof: whereas in few dayes he subjected vnder the Ro­mane yoake all that was to be subdued in Galicia,Clul. Casars ex­ploits in Spaine being Pretor. Brecaire, and Lusitania: among others, he destroyed Brigantium in Galicia (the which is Bragance, if it be not the Port of Corugna, or the Groine, called in old time Portus Brigantinus:) He dispersed the Herminian mountai­ners, inhabiting betwixt the riuers of Duero and Minio, and forced them to retyre into the islands of Cincies, which are those of Bayonne of Minio. And if hee shewed himselfe actiue and valiant in matters of warre, hee woon no lesse honour in administration of ju­stice, and other actions of peace: aboue all things hee pacified many suites, commenced by vsurers against their debtors; the which he so ordered, as the creditors should haue two third parts of their debtors goods, and the rest they should haue for their maintenance, vntill the debt were payed: and he made many other good ordinances, for the which he was much ho­noured. After Caesars returne, he being Consull, there was a complot made betwixt him, Crassus, and Pompey, who diuided the Romane Prouinces betwixt them: whereof Spaine fell 15 to Pompey; the which he gouerned by his Lieutenants: then P. Lentulus was sent thither as Proconsull, and after him Q. Metellus Nepos: in whose time the Gaules of Aquitania made warre against Caesar and the Romanes, employing the captaines and Spanish souldiors which had carried armes vnder Sertorius.

From that time Spaine was gouerned by Pompey, or men of his faction: so as vpon the be­ginning of the ciuile warre betwixt him and Caesar, L. Afranius, M. Petreius, Pompey perpe­tuall Gouernour in Spaine. and M. Varro did gouerne it for him: against whom Caesar marched, after that he had chased Pompey out of Italy; knowing well, that Spaine was a seminarie for souldiors, and if he tooke it not from Pompey, his designes would proue but vaine: being well aduertised, that Pompey had sent Vibullius Rufus thither, to keepe that great prouince at his deuotion, and to oppose him against Caesar in those [Page 113] parts. The lieutenants vpon Vibullius comming put themselues in order, euery one in his go­uernment. Petreius made a leuie of horsemen in Lusitania:Great prepara­tions to resist Caesar in Spaine. Afranius did the like among the Celtiberians, and that part of the Cantabrians, where he commaunded. They joyned their forces together on this side the riuer of Ebro, making their store-house for the war at Ilerda, hauing in their armies fiue Romane legions, almost 80 companies of Spaniards, and about 5000 horse. Caesar being resolued to fight with them, and to chase them out of Spain, had sent C. Fabius with three legions to seize vpon the passages of the Pyrenee mountaines: then he fol­lowed with about 6000 Italian foot, which had alwaies serued him in the wars of Gaule, and 3000 horse, and the like number of other souldiors leuied in Aquitania, most of them of the mountaines; of whom he had politickely borrowed all the money they had to pay his armie: where he found, that Fabius and the Pompeians were neere, and often skirmished about the ri­uer of Sicoris or Sigro, whereas Fabius had made two bridges, by the which he sent his souldi­ors to forrage, for all neere vnto him was consumed, Petreius and Afranius lying beneath the e­nemie. It happened, that Fabius meaning to passe two legions ouer one of his bridges, to se­cond his forragers, when as the souldiors were past, & the baggage following them, the bridge was so ouercharged with weight, as it brake; so as Fabius armie was diuided, and these two le­gions ingaged, and cut off by the riuer from the rest of their horse and foot: which the enemies (who lay beneath them) perceiuing by the timber and other stuffe which came down with the streame, Afranius did suddainly cause foure legions and all his horse to passe, to charge Fabius two legions, which were led by L. Plancus: who hauing put them into a long forme of battell, least he should be enuironed by these horsemen, he endured the shocke of these foure legions, vntill that C. Fabius came to succour him, and to vngage him: for when he saw the bridge bro­ken, he doubted what the enemies would doe, and therefore had caused all the rest of his army to passe by the other bridge, which was a good league aboue it. Hereupon Caesar arriued with his armie, and marched towards the enemies to draw them to battaile, but he could not: skir­mishing for three daies together vnder the towne of Ilerda, with losse on either side, Caesars ar­mie (which lay then in a country about seuen leagues compasse, betwixt the two riuers of Si­coris and Cinga, which were not to be waded through) was much annoyed with raine and tempests that fell, wherewith (the riuers being much risen) the bridges which Fabius had repai­red were carried away; so as they could not bring any victuals from their confederat townes, nor out of Gaule nor Italie, neither yet goe to forrage: and if any did stray out farre to seeke victuals, they were compassed in by the waters, and could not returne to the campe. And on the other side, Afranius and Petreius armie liued in abundance: and to encrease Cae­sars miseries, great store of victuals, stayed by the riuers which were ouerflowne, being conducted out of Gaule, with a good number of foot and horse, were stopped and disper­sed by Afranius, who departed in the night with three legions and all his horsemen to de­feat them. But the Gaules defended themselues so valiantly, as most of them escaped in the mountaines, the which Caesar (hauing found meanes soone after to repaire his bridges) recei­ued, with their leaders. Many daies were spent in light skirmishes, and to cut off them that went for forrage: in the meane time there were many secret practises; so as Caesar drew vnto him fiue townes and nations; Osca, Calagurri, Tarracone, the Lacetanes and Ausetanes: and in the end, the Spaniards which were in Afranius campe began to disband, and to flye to Caesars campe, yea, whole bands of the Ilurgauonians: And after the example of these neere townes, those that were farthest off sued to Caesar for his friendship; who making many dit­ches and trenches, drew the riuer of Sigro or Sicoris into so many streames, as his horsemen might wade through it. Afranius and Petreius being amazed thereat, resolued to dislodge, and passe the riuer of Ebro, to retyre into the Celtiberians countrey, where they did thinke to get many horsemen, victuals, and other commodities. According to this resolution, they dislodged in the night from Ilerda, where they left a good garrison, and marcht towards Ebro. Caesar hauing passed his horse, followed them in the rere, and in the end he was so importuned by the legions, as he caused them to wade through the riuer whereas the horsmen had passed, and made such speed, as he ouertooke the enemies in the morning, so as the armies were again neere together, yet did they neither fight nor march, spending some time to discouer the coun­trey; yet Caesar in the end found meanes to get (but not without a sharpe encounter) cer­taine 16 straits, whereby he stopped Afranius and Petreius designe for their going to Ebro. [Page 114] Whilest they consult what they had to doe,C [...]sar disarmes Afranius and Petrei [...]. and how to preuent Caesars surprises, their armie wearie of them, and woon with Caesars fame and reputation, was easily corrupted by the Cae­sarian souldiors: the which Afranius and Petreius sought to hinder; yea, Petreius vsing his absolute authoritie, slew many of them that parled. Thinking afterwards to returne towards Ilerda, and to passe the riuer Sicoris, but being hindered by Caesar, they put their armie in bat­taile readie to fight: but Caesar holding them as it were besieged, reduced them to that ex­tremitie, as they demaunded their liues of him, resigning their Legions vp vnto him, and all the Prouince.

17 M. Varro, Varro followes the time and occasions. who was in the further Spaine, hearing the successe of the affaires in Italie, in the beginning, he did hold Pompeyes ruine to be most certain: wherefore he spake very ho­nourably of Caesar, and seemed to desire to be a neuter in these quarrels: but when as he vnder­stood, that Afranius and Petreius were gone to field with so great an armie, and in what diffi­culties Caesar was vnder Ilerda for want of victuals, he then changed his mind, and followed Pompeyes partie; and filling vp two legions which he had, to the which he joyned about thirtie bands of allies, he began to make prouision of great store of corne to send to Afranius, and in like manner to the Marsilians, whom Caesar caused to be besieged: and assuring himselfe of the citie of Gades, he caused all the gold, siluer, and jewels which were in Hercules Temple, to be transported thither, making Caius Gallonius, a Roman knight, Gouernor thereof, with six com­panies of Spaniards, carrying all the citizens armes into his lodging. Then he began to change his speech of Caesar, and of his exploits, contrarie to that which he had of late vsed: wherefore the citizens of Rome being dispersed ouer the Prouince, being amazed, did easily suffer them­selues to be taxed in a great summe of money, for the seruice of the Commonweale, not spa­ring (as it is to be conjectured) the townes which he thought to be affected vnto Caesar. Varro [...]andies himselfe against Caesar. And if there were any one which durst speake against them that followed Pompey, he did confiscate their goods, forcing euery one to take an oath to him and to Pompey, and so he prepared him­selfe to the warre, making his account to lodge with his two legions in Gades, vpon all euents, and to bring all the corne thither, and to gather together all the shipping of that prouince, the which he knew to be too well affected vnto Caesar. Finally, he persuaded himselfe, That hee might prolong the warre in this island as much as he pleased. Caesars affaires prest him to re­turne into Italie, yet holding it necessarie to disarme all those that held Pompeyes part in Spain, he sent two legions towards Betica, vnder the commaund of Q. Cassius, Tribune of the people; after the which he went with some troupes of horse, hauing in the meane time order for the calling of a generall assembly at Cordoua: whither deputies came from all the townes, and in a manner all the Romanes that were in those marches, being much enclined to do what Caesar should commaund them. M. Varro was excluded by the assembly of Cordoua, who set gards in their ports and towers, and they of Carmone chased away the garrison which Varro had placed there, which made him hast the more to bring his two legions to Gades, least he should be preuented: but he was not farre aduanced, before he receiued letters, by the which he was aduertised, That the Gaditanes hauing agreed with the captaines of the garrison which was within their town, had forced Gallonius to depart, protesting, That they would keepe the town for Caesar: whereupon one of Varroes legions resolued to leaue him, taking the way towards Seuille.Varro disarmed by Caesar. Wherewith Varro being amazed, and seeing himselfe coopt vp in that countrey, so as he had no meanes to passe into Italie, he resolued to yeeld vnto Caesar, deliuering vp his legion which remained, with all the money and victuals that was in his power. Caesar held an assem­bly at Cordoua, and thanked the deputies of towns, the citizens of Rome, and all the captains and others which had shewed themselues fauourable to his cause: hee restored euery man to his goods that had been spoyled, and filled all men with hope by his promises. From Cordoua he passed to Gades, and restored to Hercules Temple the gold and jewels which had bin taken away: and hauing left Q. Cassius with foure legions to gouerne the Prouince, he passed by sea to Tarracone, where the deputies of all that part of Spaine attended him: with whom hauing conferred, and disposed of the affaires, he went by land towards Narbone, and from thence to Marseilles, which his lieutenants did besiege. This was in the yeare 704.

18 At Marseilles Caesar had news,Ann. Rome 704 Cassius crueltie and couet [...]snes thrusts Caesar into a new war. That he was created Dictator at Rome by M. Lepidus the Pretor: after which time Spain was gouerned in his name by M. Lepidus and Q. Cassius his lieu­tenants: But they of Corduba oppressed with the crueltie & couetousnesse of Cassius, forsooke [Page 115] (with two legions) Caesars party; whereby the war was reuiued in Spain by Pompeyes children, after the defeat and death of their father, in the yeare 708. This Cassius being couetous, and a great exactor, did incense the souldiours against him; who hurt him, and had like to haue stabd him with their daggers: The authors of this excesse were L. Rucilio, Annius Scapula, and Minutius Silo: yet he was cured; and as he thought to passe into Africke by Caesars comman­dement, almost all his souldiours abandoned him, and did chuse one Thorus, of the towne of Italica, for their leader. To this Thorus (who made a shew to besiege Cordoua) Marcellus did joyne, but they did inuest Mia (which is likely to be Monte-Major at this day:) thereupon M. Lepidus came from Rome, where he had proclaimed Caesar Dictator, who kept them from for­cing and taking Cassius. Marcellus referred their quarels to Lepidus: but Cassius being loath to trust him, was content to leaue the prouince, and to giue place to Caius Trebonius. Being im­barqued at Malaca, with all that he had gotten in Spaine, to passe into Italie, his ship was cast by a tempest vpon the coast, where it perished, not farre from the mouth of Ebro.

These two legions were somewhat pacified by C. Trebonius, who succeeded Cassius Longi­nus, yet they feared to be punished for their rebellion: wherefore they solicited Scipio, who held Africke for the Pompeyan faction, to send Cn. Pompeius, sonne to the great Pompey, into Spaine; who went thitherward: but he staied long at the islands of the Baleares, as well to subdue them, as by reason of sickenesse. The legions hearing afterwards of Scipioes defeat in Italie, and that Caesar sent Didius with an armie against them, fearing to bee oppressed before Pompeyes comming, they did chuse T. Quintius Scapula, and Q. Apponius, for their commaun­ders, chasing C. Trebonius out of the Betique prouince.Cn. Pompeius gets the further Spaine to be at his deuotion. Hereupon Pompey arriued, whom they acknowledged for their Generall; so as in a short time he reduced the further Spaine vnder his deuotion: with whom there came Actius Varus, and Labienus. Caesar aduertised of these things, being in Italie, he sent Q. Pedius and Q. Fabius Maximus into Spaine: but they were not able to resist Pompeyes forces; so as Caesar being solicited by the townes that were allied vnto him (especially by them of Corduba) he went in person into Spaine. Then did Sextus Pompeius, the younger of the brethren, hold Cordoua, the chiefe towne of the gouernment, with a good garrison, and Cn. the elder brother besieged Vlloa, into the which Caesar found o­portunitie to put some succours, by the meanes of a great wind and raine, and by the dexteri­tie of L. Iunius Paciecus, a Spaniard, to whom he had giuen the charge: which put Cn. Pompei­us out of hope to take it: whereupon he dislodged, and led his armie towards Cordoua, whi­ther Sextus his brother, fearing to be forced by Caesar, did solicite him to approach. Hauing in­countred Caesar vpon the bankes of Betis, there were many bloudie skirmishes, with variable successe. Caesar dislodged in the night, and went to besiege Ategua, whither Pompey went, and camped betwixt Ategua and Vcubis, hauing thirteene legions in his armie; yet he made no account but of three, for all the rest were composed of fugitiues, and men of no value. Caesar was much stronger in horse, and Pompey had no will to fight, but was willing to prolong the warre all he could: yet being desirous to force a certaine garrison which Caesar had set to keepe a peece of ground which was commodious for either of them, there was a great skir­mish, Caesar comming himselfe to second his men with three legions; so as the Pompeyans had the worst, and were repulsed. Wherewith Pompey being amazed, there being new sup­plies of horse come to Caesars campe, hee dislodged, and retired towards Cordoua, being fol­lowed by Caesars horse, whereof he slew many, being ingaged in one of his legions. Some past from his campe vnto Caesar, Ategua taken by Caesar. among the which were Q. Martius and C. Fundanius. Ategua be­ing sorely battered, and well defended for many dayes, in the end yeelded. The which Pom­pey vnderstanding, he marched towards Vcubis, where he caused a search to be made for all the inhabitants which fauoured Caesar, cutting off the heads of seuentie foure, and casting many women and children ouer the walls; which made many to flie to Caesars campe, yea captaines, and heads of bands, and the souldiours of some legions, with some townes. Wherefore Pom­pey fearing that by his delaies he should loose both his allies, & his armie it selfe, hauing spent some dayes in turning vp and downe, in the end he resolued to giue Caesar battell neere vnto Munda. In both armies, besides Romanes and Italian allies and Spaniards, there were many Moores:Moores in both the armies of Caesar and Pompey. for Boechus a Moorish king, had sent two of his sonnes to succour Pompey; and Bo­gud another king of the same nation, was in person in Caesars armie: yet the battell was fought in a manner by the Romanes alone. On Caesars side the souldiours were encouraged by their [Page 116] Generals presence, and did wonderfull deeds of armes. In Pompeyes armie, whereas the su­gitiue legionaries were,Battell betwixt Caesar and Pompey. despaire to get their pardon made them to fight resolutely. Being come to joyne, the allyes of either part turned their backes presently, so as the Romanes must trie it who should haue the better, the which was done with great obstinacie on either side; so as there could no grones nor lamentations be heard, of any one that was dying or wounded, but onely striking and killing, one encouraging another, and shewing themselues more prompt with their hands than tongues. The battell was long doubtfull, neither could Caesar or Pompey judge which had the better, who after they had long beheld it in great per­plexitie, they came among them to encourage their souldiours, whereof there was no great need. King Bogud was the cause of Caesars victorie, who standing without the battell with his Moores, went vnto the trenches of Pompeyes campe, to spoyle it: the which Labienus per­ceiuing, he went out of his ranke to make head against him: but the rest of Pompeyes souldi­ours taking it to be a flight, with the apprehension thereof they were all put to rout; and al­though they did soone after find their owne errours,A mistaking is the cause of Pompeyes ruine. yet could they not rally themselues to­gether againe, but some fled to their campe, and some towards the towne of Munde. The slaughter was great on either side,Great slaughter on both sides. euen at the taking of the campe, whereas Caesars men could neuer enter, before they had slaine all those that defended it, with like losse of their own men. Caesar hauing gotten the victorie with great difficultie and danger, he said vnto his souldiours, That he had often fought for honour, but now he had fought for his life. There dyed of Pom­peyes souldiours 30000.

After this rout Cordoua being abandoned by Sex. Pompeius, yeelded, in the which Scapula (who had beene author of the souldiours sedition) caused a slaue of his to kill him, and to burne his bodie, with all the treasure he had. Seuill, Munde, and other places, were some ta­ken by force, with great slaughter of the inhabitants, and some by composition. Many towns in Spaine (flattering Caesar) after these victories, called themselues after his name: Vcubis was called Claritas Iulia, Ebora, Libertas Iulia. At this time Caesar did not spare the treasure of Hercules temple in Gades, being greatly distressed for money: He took away many of their lands, & laid new taxes vpō those towns which had rebelled, that he might reward his friends.

Pompey hauing escaped by flight, he came to Carteia, where he thought to make vse of the armie at sea, which he had kept readie thereabouts: but he was pursued, and the ships after a great fight falling into the power of Didius, were some of them carried away by him, and the rest burnt; so as Pompey sore wounded in the shoulder and leg, seeking to flie by land, was pur­sued, ouertaken,Cn. Pompeius the sonne slaine. and slaine, with many of his men, by the horsemen and some companies of foot which were sent after him. For these victories gotten in Spaine, not against strangers, but against citizens of Rome, Caesar, Q. Fabius, and Q. Pedius, did triumph at Rome, to the great griefe of the people. After that these things had been exploited by Caesar, and all ciuile dissen­tions quenched, as he thought to enjoy his Dictatorship, suffering kingly honours to be done vnto him, he was slaine by Cassius, Brutus, and other conspirators. Then was the estate of Rome in greater confusion than euer, by the diuision betwixt Octauius Caesar and M. Anthonie, and af­terwards by the cruell proscriptions of Octauius, M. Anthonie, and Lepidus: which Lepidus had 19 triumphed for Spaine in the yere 707, I know not for what victories. It is certaine that he go­uerned the hither part of Spain by Caesars gift,Lepidus gouerns Spaine vnder Caesar. but it was by his lieutenants, hauing neuer done any exploit of warre. Dio saith, That he persuaded Sex. Pompeius to leaue Spaine, promising him restitution of his fathers goods. Domitius Caluinus, C. Norbanus, Flaccus, and Asinius Pollio, were afterwards Gouernours of Spaine, of whose exploits there is no memorable mention. In the yeare 713 Cornel. Balbus, borne at Calis, was Consull at Rome: and in the yeare 714, the second diuision of the empire being made betwixt Octauius Caesar, M. Anthonie, and M. Lepi­dus, after the reconciliation betwixt Octauius and M. Anthonie, and the Perusine warre, among other prouinces, Spaine fell to Octauius: and from that yere the Spaniards began to account their yeares by the Arke or rule of Caesar, the which was 38 years before the comming of our Sauiour, the which they did continue vntill the yeare 1383 of our saluation, when as this cu­stome was left, as shall be said.

20 In the yeare 726 of the foundation of Rome,Augustus in Spaine. Augustus being sole Emperour, he vndertooke to subdue the Cantabrians, Asturians, and Gallicians, who had alwayes held their libertie, lawes, and auntient customes, to rob and spoyle their neighbours, and would [Page 117] wholly subject them vnder his empire: wherefore he resolued to goe in person into Spaine, where he found those nations assured in their countenances, and full of contempt, relying in the strength of their mountaines, from whence they made many sudden enterprises, verie pre­judiciall to the emperours armie, the which camped at Sigisama (the which some thinke was that which at this present they call Veisama, in Guipuscoa or Biscaye, and not Sigisama Iulia) where he made three troupes of his forces. Hauing spent many dayes there, and nothing ad­uanced his affaires, Augustus fell sicke with care and trauell: wherfore hauing left the charge of the warre to C. Antistius, he caused himselfe to be carried to Tarracona. The Cantabrians assailed both by land and sea towards Gaule Aquitaine, came to fight with Antistius and Fir­mius, by whom they were defeated in many encounters, and their townes taken. A great number of Gallicians hauing fortified themselues on a mountaine, then called Medullius, neere vnto the riuer of Minio,Cruell [...] of Barbarians. they were besieged, and so pressed as they must of necessitie either fight or yeeld: but hauing not the courage to defend themselues, and being loath to fall into seruitude, they all slew themselues. The Asturians being camped neere vnto the ri­uer which giues the name vnto their countrey, thought to surprise the Romane armie, and without doubt had defeated them, if their enterprise had not beene discouered. They were afterwards put to rout by P. Carisius, but not without great slaughter of his men. Hee also tooke Lancia, the chiefe towne of Asturia, being abandoned. So the warre ended, and at the same instant Augustus hauing dismissed the old souldiours, hee gaue them leaue to build the towne of Emerita in Lusitania,Emerita soun­ded by Augustus Sarag [...]sse. at this day it is Merida in Portugall. Then also the towne of Salduba was first called Cesar Augusta, in honor of Octauius Augustus, it is now Saragosse, the which he did much enlarge with buildings. Fiue and twentie yeares before the birth of our Sauiour, the way was paued from Cordoua to Astigi vpon the Ocean. It appeares by this in­scription which is at Cordoua, on a pillar of greene stone, whereon Augustus name is grauen, and the number of twelue miles, which is the distance from Cordoua to the sea.

This Temple of Ianus was by all conjectures built by Augustus at Cordoua, in signe of a perpetuall peace. After Caesars returne Sextus Apuleius Proconsull, shewed some proofes of his valour in Spaine, for the which he triumphed: and afterwards L. Aemilius suppressed the Cantabrians,Gouernment of Spaine vnder the emperours. and Asturians, who rebelled againe: After which time Spaine was gouerned by Pretors and Proconsuls, the which are sometimes called in Latine Praesides, vnto the time of Dioclesian and Maximin. Strabo saith, That in his time, which was during the empires of Au­gustus and Tiberius, the prouince of Betica was giuen vnto the people of Rome, who appoin­ted a Gouernour or Pretor, hauing a Lieutenant and a Treasurer; the rest of Spaine remai­ning at the emperours disposition: who sent two lieutenants, the one in qualitie of Vice-Pre­tor, the other as Vice-Consull. The Vice-Pretor, with the helpe of a lieutenant or legat, did justice, and had jurisdiction ouer all Lusitania, from the riuer of Betis vnto Duero: the other part, being Taracconese, did obey the Vice-Consull, who had a great armie entertained with three lieutenants; the one commaunded the Cantabrians, Asturians, and the country of Gal­licia; the other gouerned along the Mediterranean sea; and the third had charge of the in­ner countries. The Generals place of residence was at Carthagene, or Tarracone. The em­perours which came after, made first two, and then one Gouernour of Spaine, and not al­wayes of one sort. About the time of Maximinian and Dioclesian, the Gouernours were cal­led Earles,Earles and Vi­cars gouerning Spaine. and their lieutenants Vicars: and when as the Gothes began to erect a kingdome, that small portion which held for the Romanes, along the shore of the prouince of Cartha­gene, and the mountains of the Cantabrians and Asturians,Dukes called Pr [...]fecti. were gouerned by Dukes, whom they called Praefecti.

Octauius Caesar, surnamed Augustus, The fi [...]st yere of Christ. 752 of Rome. had held the empire about two and fortie yeares, when our Sauiour Iesus Christ the eternall sonne of God, was borne God and man, of the virgine [Page 118] Marie, of the tribe of Iuda, in the citie of Beth-leem of Iuda, which was in the yere 757 of the foundation of Rome. The night when as the Lord of peace came vpon the earth, was (as some write) as bright and cleere in Spaine, as the noone day. The computation of times shall hereafter be taken from the birth of our Sauiour;An. 16 of Christ in the 16 yeare of whose life Augustus died. Then Sextilius Hena, a Poet of Cordoua, flourished in Spaine, being now brought whol­ly to the manners of the Romans.

21 The Spaniards being much affected to Augustus, did obtaine of C. Tiberius Nero, his successour, leaue to build a goodly temple in honour of him, in the towne of Tarracone. This emperour kept the Gallicians, Asturians, and Cantabrians vnder, with strong garrisons, ha­uing beene formerly subdued by Augustus. In his time they of Lisbone gaue it out, That they had seene and heard Triton in certaine hollow rockes,Triton a diue­lish illusion. singing and playing vpon a comet, as they painted him: And Plinie reports, that vpon the sea shore a Nereide had beene seene co­uered with scales, yea whereas she caried a humane shape: and that they had heard the grones and complaints she made dying.Vibius Serenus a tyrannous go­uernor punished. Vnder Tiberius, Vibius Serenus Proconsull of the further Spaine, accused by his owne sonne, and conuicted, was condemned as a tyrant, and banished into the island Amorgos, one of the Cyclades. Iunius Gallio, brother to Seneca the Senator, was also banished, for that he had propounded in Senat, to honour the old souldiours which had beene dismist, with higher seats in the Theatre, and at publique shewes; hauing not first spoken thereof vnto the emperour Tiberius. The Spanish flatterers, doing idolatrie vnto prin­ces, would also haue made a temple vnto Tiberius and to his mother, the which was prohibi­ted; Tiberius saying,Tiberius doth mades [...]ly refuse diuine honours. Anno 16. That he was a man and no god, demaunding no other thing of them, but that they would retaine a good and commendable memorie of him after his death.

The six and twentieth yeare of our saluation, L. Piso, a great oppressor of the people, was slaine in the hither Spaine, where he was Pretor,An exacting go­uernour slaine by a peasant. by a peasant of Termes, who being taken and tortured, would neuer confesse who had made him to commit this murther. This man slip­ping out of the officers hands which led him to the racke againe, beat his own head so violent­ly against a stone, as instantly he lost both sence and life. In those times one of the richest men of Spaine, called Sextus Marius, was accused, to haue accompanied with his owne daughter carnally: for the which he was cast downe headlong from the rocke Tarpeien: but his great wealth was the cause of his death, more than his crime.

Tiberius had raigned seuenteene yeares,Anno 34. when as our Sauiour Iesus Christ suffered death for the redemption of mankind, hauing finished the three and thirtieth yeare of his life.

22 The healthfull doctrine of our redemption by him,The Gospel prea­ched in Spain in Tiberius time. was during the empire of Tibe­rius knowne in Spaine, as some hold: but it is doubtfull who was the Apostle. We read in the Epistles of Saint Paul, that he had a desire to go thither, but it is not certaine that he per­formed that voiage, although that Epiphanius and others do beleeue it. The Spaniards affirme, That Saint Iames the sonne of Zebedee, came thither to preach the Gospell in the seuen and thirtieth yere, and that he onely conuerted nine persons: Others, as Pope Calixtus, write, That he had many Disciples, but that he had twelue speciall ones, nine whereof hee conuerted in Gallicia. Others affirme, That when he preached at Saragosse, hee dedicated to the virgine Marie, the temple which is at this day called Nuestra Segnora del pillar: and that hauing left two of his Disciples in Spaine, he returned into Iudea. Wee comprehend by the holy writ, that this holy Apostle liued almost all his life in Ierusalem, and thereabouts: and wee know, that Herodes caused his head to be cut off, in the third yeare of the empire of Claudius.

The nine and thirtieth yeare of our saluation,Anno 39. H [...]rodes & He­rodi [...] died in Spaine, as the Spaniards af­firme. as some authors write, Herodes and Herodias (she which incited her incestuous husband, to cut off Saint Iohn Baptists head) retired them­selues into Spaine: who (being spoyled of all their goods and dignities, by C. Caligula) dyed there for sorrow. Caligula was slaine by Cherca and other conspirators: But before them Aemi­lius Regula of Cordoua, hauing attempted his death, was preuented and executed. This yeare M. Anneus Lucanus the Poet, was borne at Cordoua, whose father was Luc. Anneus Mela, bro­ther to Seneca the Philosopher: his mother was called C. Acilia, daughter to Acilius Lucanus the Orator. This child being but eight moneths old, was carried to Rome.

23 We haue said, That Saint Iames the sonne of Zebedeus was beheaded in Ierusalem by Herods commaundement, in the third yeare of the emperour Claudius. The Spaniards and other authors write, That his Disciples gathering vp his bodie and head, imbarqued it at Iop­pa, [Page 119] and carried it into Spaine,The Spaniards opinion of S. Iames bodie. for feare of the Iewes; and that they landed at a place called Iria Flauia, now Padron, where they buried it in a secret place, where since it was discoue­red, and carried to Compostella. In Claudius time liued Pomponius Mela, borne at Mellaria, and Turanius Graccula. Anneus Seneca of Cordoua, banished by Claudius, was in fauour of Agrippina (whom the Emperour had newly married) called home againe, made Pretor at Rome, and appointed schoolemaster and gouernor to Nero. This Seneca was a famous Orator and Philosopher, as it appeares by his workes, highly honoured for his great memorie, and au­ditor to Socion the Philosopher: L. Anneus Seneca the tragicall Poet was his sonne. Then did also flourish Portius Latro, a Spaniard, an excellent Orator. Vnder the Emperour Claudius there gouerned Spaine, on this side Ebro, Drusillanus Rotundus his Libertine, with the title of Dispenser, and Vmbonius Silio ruled Betica.

In those times, as Buter sayes, S. Saturnin was sent into Spaine, he who was afterwards Bishop of Tolouse, and preached at Pampelone, where in seuen daies he couerted fortie thousand persons; a great number for that place: among the which was S. Fremin, a citizen of Pampelone.

In the yeare 61 of the natiuitie of Christ,Anno 61. Otho a modest Gouernour in Spaine. Otho (who was Emperour after Galba) was sent by Nero into Lusitania: which prouince hee gouerned tenne yeares modestly, and without oppression of the people; the which was strange, considering the disposition of the man.

In the yeare 64 Lucan the Poet, a confederat of Pisos conspiracie, caused his veines to be opened, and died in the 28 yeare of his age. His father Mela pressing Nero with great impor­tunitie, for the restitution of his sonnes goods, was accused as guiltie of the same treason, and 24 forced to haue his veines opened,The death of many learned Spaniards by Nero. and so die. Seneca was brought to the same death by his dis­ciple Nero, against the promises which he had so often made and sworne, not to giue eare to his accusers, nor to hurt him in any sort: Seeing the bloud come slowly out of his veines, he hastened his owne death, with poyson taken in a hot bath, the 114 yeare of his age, or accor­ding vnto some, the 120. Paulina his chast wife, and a rare president of loue to her hus­band, caused her veines to bee opened, to follow him: but whether through womanish weakenesse, or that Nero hindered it, she suffered them to be bound vp. L. Iunius Mode­ratus Columella liued also in those times, the author of the bookes of Husbandrie, borne in Gades.

In the yeare 70, which was the last of the life of Nero, Anno 70. Sillius Italicus was Consull at Rome, being borne in Italica, a towne in the prouince of Betica, not farre from Seuille: and at that time Cluuius Rufus was in Spaine with some commaund. The abhominable disposition of Ne­ro made the Spaniards and many other nations to rebell against the Romane Empire, a little before his death;Galba sent to suppresse rebels in Spaine. for the suppressing of whom, he sent Sergius Galba: but this old man (who had before time gouerned the prouince of Tarraconese eight yeares) hauing discouered, that Nero had giuen a secret Commission to kill him, he declared himselfe Emperour, and in stead of a judge, became head and captaine of the rebellion; whereunto both the Pro­uince and the Romane armie did consent: but his Empire lasted not long, nor of his two successors, Otho and Vitellius: for in lesse than two yeares they lost both their liues and the 25 the Empire; one defeating another, to make place for Vespasian, who came vnto the impe­riall seat in the 72 yeare of the Natiuitie of our Sauiour Christ, and graunted vnto the Spaniards the priuiledges of the Latines,Ann. 72. which were, That they might demaund offices, and enjoy some immunities, but not so amply as the citizens of Rome, yet somewhat more than the liberties of other cities of Italie. Otho was the first which joyned Mauritania Tin­gitania vnto Betica in Spaine, making it of the jurisdiction of Gades. At that time liued Bellila, a Spanish Christian woman. Fabius Quintilian had beene brought vnto the citie of Rome verie young by Sergius Galba: about the 90 yeare he erected a schoole at Rome, with a publicke pension, and had manie schollers; among the which, they name Iuuenal and the younger Plinie: As for Iuuenal, they doubt whether he were a Spaniard, but Mar­tial without all question was borne, and died at Bilbilis, seated neere vnto the place where­as now stands Calataiud or Calataiub, of the name of Aiub a Moore, who built it with the ruines of Bilbilis. Canius a Poet, who liued also in that age, was a Gaditane, and Decian of Emerita.

[Page 120] After Vespasian, his children raigned at Rome.Anno 81. Domitian the se­cond persecutor of the church. Titus in the yeare 81, and two yeares after Domitian, the second scourge of the Church of God, in whose time liued Eugenius, the first bishop of Toledo, Disciple, as they say, to Denis Areopagita. This Eugenius was slaine at Paris, whither he was come to visit his master. Of the Flauian familie, from whence these empe­rours were issued, there remained some markes and remembrances in Spaine, by the deno­mination of many townes, as Flauio Brigo, Flauium Brigantium, Iria Flauia, Flauium Axati­tanum, Aquae Flauiae in Gallicia, &c.

Domitian did prohibit by a new edict, That they should not plant any more vines in Spain, fearing least come should faile them.A diuision of the gouernment of Spaine. Vnder these Flauian emperours they number eight Romane Colonies, planted in the prouince of Betica: and foure places for justice, which they termed Colonels, at Gades, Seuille, Astigis, and Cordoua.

Lusitania had fiue Romane Colonies, one priuiledged citie called Olisippo, and now Lisbone, and three seats of iustice at Emerita, Pax Augusta, and Scalabis. In the rest of Spain which was the quietest gouernment, there were fourteene Romane Colonies, thirteene pri­uiledged townes, and seuen courts for justice. At new Carthage, Tarracona, Sarragossa, Clu­nia, Asturica, Lugo, and Bracara.

Cocceius Nerua came vnto the Empire in the yeare 97. a prince who seemed to be called 26 by God,Anno 97. to repaire the confusion which Domitian had caused in the world, vnder whom the Christians had some rest.Traian a Spa­niard the third persecutor of the church. The Spaniards will haue him to be of their nation, but it appeares not plainly. But he adopted Vlpius Traian a Spaniard without all doubt, borne in the towne of Italica, who through errour caused the third persecution of the Church, whereof being admonished by Plinius Secundus, he moderated his edicts. Mancius a citizen of Rome in this tempest suffered death for the confession of the Christian faith at Ebora in Lusitania, vnder the gouernment of Validius. By the liberalitie and bountie of Traian, Spaine was inriched with many goodly buildings, among the which is the bridge of Alcantara,The bridge of Alcantara Tra­ians worke. vpon the riuer of Tayo, where at this day are to be seene these inscriptions following. ‘Imp. Caesari Diui Neruae F. Traiano Aug. Germ. Dacico. Pontif. Max. Trib. Potes. VIII. Imp. VI. Cos. V. P. P.’

Vnder the Arch is in a Table on the one side,

• Municipiae.
• Prouinciae.
• Lusitaniae stipe conlata
• Quae opus Pontis per­fecerunt.
• Icaeditani.
• Lancienses Oppidani.
• Talori.
• Interannienses.
• Colarni.
• Lancienses Transcudani.
• Araui.
• Meidubrigenses.
• Arabrigenses.
• Banienses.
• Paesures.

There is place for three other such like Tables, which haue beene taken away.

Ouer the dore of S. Iulians church, at the end of the bridge, is written that which fol­loweth, in Romane capitall letters. ‘Imp. Neruae. Traiano Caesari. Augusto. Germanico. Dacico. Sacrum.’

‘C. Iulius Lacer. H. S. F. & dedicauit amico Curio Lacone Icaeditano.’

The aqueduct of Segobia, is also held to be Traians worke, where they may easily ob­serue the stately manner of building of the Romanes. This emperour sent two legions (of fourteene,Edict to race the townes standing in the mountains which were appointed to keepe the prouinces of the empire in awe) into Spaine, to put his edicts in execution, and to rase all the townes and castles which were situated vpon the mountaines or places of strength: with commaundement to the people, to build in the open country, where the accesse was easie. Sublantia was ruined by vertue of this decree, and a towne built,The citie of Le­on Built. which then was called Legio Germanica, or Gemina, according vnto some, but now it is Leon, a royall citie. Vnder Traian Plinie the yonger had charge in Spaine.

Adrian, who was emperour after Traian, Anno 118. in the yeare of our Sauiour 118, was also borne in the towne of Italica, in the prouince of Betica, as Eutropius, Orosus, and Ser. Sulpitius doe witnesse. Domitia Paulina his mother, was of Gades. He had some instruction, or good opi­nion of the Christian religion. Being at Tarracone (where he had called a generall assemblie of all the people of Spaine) he caused (at his owne charge) Augustus temple, which went to ruine, to be repaired. In which towne he was in danger to haue beene slaine by a slaue that was madde, who set vpon him with his sword drawne, as he walked without any feare in a gar­den. This slaue being taken,A generous act of Adrian. when as the emperour vnderstood that he was madde, he sayd nothing, but that they must put him into the Physitians hands. Hauing subdued the Iewes which were rebelled in Palestina,Adrian peoples Spaine with Iewes. he sent a great number in exile into Spaine, so as from that time this sect was setled there, & had their Synagogues, vntil the raigne of Dom Fernando and D. Isabella, in the time of our forefathers. Spaine was then diuided into six gouernments, two 27 ruled by vice-Consuls appointed by the Senat, which were Betica and Lusitania; and foure by the emperors lieutenants, which were the prouinces of Carthagene, Tarracone, Gallicia, and Mauritania Tingitana, where the strait is.

28 After the decease of Adrian, there succeeded in the empire,Anno 139. in the yeare 139, T. Aure­lius Fuluius Antonius Pius, whom the Spaniards hold to be of their nation. As for his successor M. Aelius Aurelius, comming to the empire in the yeare 162, he was without doubt of a Spa­nish race; for his predecessors were of the towne of Succubite in Betica. Hee was the first 29 which had a companion in the empire, imparting his authoritie with Lucius Commodus Verus, who was the fourth persecutor in the Christian Church.L. Commodus Vorus, a perse­cutor of the Church. In the time of M. Aurelius, the Moores inuaded Spaine, and did infinit harme: whom notwithstanding hee repulsed by his lieutenants, namely by Seuerus, who afterwards was emperour. This prince was wise, vertu­ous, and courteous: but as he was indowed with all good qualities, so his sonne Commodus, who raigned after him in the yeare 181,Ann. 181. was detestable and vicious. He was the first of the Ro­mane princes, which through couetousnesse sold offices for money. Vespasian had done it be­fore him, but through necessitie, finding the commonweale charged with debts, and the trea­sure exhausted. Vnder Commodus were slaine in Gallicia, Facundus and Primitius, holy Chri­stian souldiours, vpon the bankes of the riuer Cea, by Atticus the gouernor. After him, about the yeare 194. Rome lost two emperours in lesse than a yeare, Pertinax and Didius Iulian, so as in the yeare 195,Anno 195. L. Septimius Seuerus, a great personage, borne in Africke, he who had gouer­ned Spaine in the time of M. Aurelius, tooke the gouernment of the empire. Vnder him was the fift persecution of the Church, especially in Spaine, whereas Cornelius was gouernor, who put Felix a priest,The fift perse­cution vnder Fortunatus, and Archilochus to death at Valence, for that they had prea­ched the Gospell.

Vnder his sonne Caracalla, Opilius Macrinus, Heliogabalus, and Alexander Seuerus, who raig­ned from the yeare two hundred and thirteene, vnto two hundred thirtie and eight, the Spa­nish historie doth not furnish anything memorable, although those times did not passe with­out great exploits, whereof there remaine some obscure markes among the stones and me­dailles. [Page 122] At Gades there is the basis of the image of Mammea, mother to Alexander Seuerus, where this inscription is to be seene.

But Maximin being come to the empire, the sixt persecution began of the Christians, in the which Maximus and many other faithfull were slaine, neere vnto Tarracone. After Maximin vnto Decius, the empire of Rome was in great combustion, by reason of the ordinary murthers of such as did affect the soueraigntie, for the space of fifteen yeres; in the which there perished by a violent death, Maximin Balbinus, Puienus, Gordian, and Philip: during which time we find not any thing of Spaine worth the writing,Anno 241. but that about the yeare 241, Antherus bishop of Rome did write vnto the bishops of the prouinces of Betica and Toledo, admonishing them among other things to be graue and constant, and not to fleet from church to church, if necessitie and the publique good did not presse them: whereby it wil appeare by this history, that their successors had small regard vnto this aduertisement, but haue rather sought their priuat commoditie. Many other epistles of holy men are found written to the bishops of Spaine, and to their churches, & among others an epistle decretall of S. Ciprian and other bi­shops assembled at the Councell of Africk,Basilides and Martiall con­demned by the Councell of Africke. The seuenth persecution. by the which Basilides and Martiall, Idolaters and infected with many vices, were declared vnworthie of all Episcopall dignities: and it seemes that the one was bishop of Legio Gemina, and the other of Emerita. Whilest that Decius go­uerned the empire (vnder whom began the 7 persecution of the Church) the first Councel of Spaine was held at Toledo, whereas Xyste a Grecian was present, who soone after was bishop of Rome: yet there is no mention made of this Councell but by Spaniards. The Spanish hi­stories write nothing of his time, nor of Gallus, Volusianus, nor Aemilianus, which succeeded him. As for Valerian, Anno 256. who came to the empire in the yeare 256, he was verie cruel against the Chri­stians, and his persecution is accounted the eight.The eight perse­cution vnder Valorian. Vnder him and Decius, S. Laurence borne at Osca in Catelognia, was martyred, whom Xiste, who (as we haue said) was come to the Coun­cell of Toledo, had led with him to Rome, passing by Sarragossa, whereas this holy man spent his time in studie. Vnder the same Valerian, by the commandement of Emylian, the gouernor, there were also put to death for the faith of Christ, Fructuosus bishop of Tarracone, with Au­gurius and Eulogia, two deacons, of whom Prudentius, a Christian Poet, did write hymnes. Par­menius was also put to death at Cordoua. Valerian author of these wicked persecutions, did soone after receiue a worthy reward for his impietie: for he was taken by Sapor king of Persia, and kept all his life time ignominiously in chains, the which it seemes did moue Galien his son and companion, to leaue the Churches in quiet, although he were the most corrupted prince vpon the earth; whose basenesse caused many tyrants to vsurpe the title of Soueraigne, in di­uers prouinces of the empire, and encouraged barbarous nations to inuade them: for in his time Spaine was full of great troups of Germans,Saxons and French inuade Spaine. Saxons, and French, vnder the conduct of Anthaire and Lothaire, princes, who ruined Tarracone, and spoyled the country, almost for the space of 12 yeares. To the former martyres we will adde Narcissus, who came to Girone to preach the Gospell.

30 After Galien, Claudius was emperor, vpon whom Tetricus vsurped Spaine and Gaule, being the chiefe strength and sinewes of the empire.The ninth per­secution vnder Aurelian. During the raigne of Aurelian (vnder whom was the ninth persecution of the Church) and of Tacitus and Florian, which were from 31 the yeare 273, vnto 280, there is no mention made of Spaine. But Probus gaue leaue to the Spaniards and Gaules, to plant vines: for good husbands held it not profitable for the com­monweale, that the land should be too much imploied to this kind of plant: but Probus was much affected to it, and therefore he caused the mountaines of Almus and Aureus in Hunga­rie and Mysia, to be planted at his owne charge. In his time the Spaniards did mutine, but Sa­turninus did pacifie them. One called Bonosius, borne and bred in Spaine, whose father was a Britan, and his mother a Gauloise, a great drinker, caused himselfe to be proclaimed empe­rour in Germanie, and with one Proculus would haue seized vpon Spaine, Gaule, and other [Page 123] prouinces: but they were defeated by Probus. The short empire of Carus Numerianus and Ca­rinus, make no mention of any thing that belongs to Spaine. Dioclesianus Iouius, who succee­ded them in the yere 288, & Maximianus Herculeius, Anno 288. made companion of the same dignity the yere after, haue left (by their great crueltie against the faithful) an infamous memory of them, in Spain, & throughout all the world.Ann. 306. They made an edict in the yere 306, That all the Chri­stians temples should be beaten downe,Edict to ruine the Christian churches. The tenth perse­cution. and all those that confessed Iesus Christ, tormented and massacred. This was the 10 & the cruellest persecution of the Church of God: for during the space of 10 yeres, there was nothing to be seene but burning of temples, running away of poore innocents, murthers, and executions of martyres, wherof Spaine (it may be) did furnish as many as any nation in the world, to their great commendation. The names of these con­stant witnesses of the truth of Christ,Martyres as Sarragosse. should not be suppres [...]. In Sarragosse there were 18 at one time, of whom the Christian Poet Prudentius made a goodly hymne. These were Optatus, Successus, Vrbanus, Pubius, Felix, Euentius, Lupercus, Martialis, Iulius, Fronto, Caecilianus, Primiti­uus, Quintilianus, Apodemius, and foure Saturnines. Encratia a noble virgine, daughter to a great nobleman of Lusitania, betrothed to a duke or gouernour of Gaule Narbonoise, did there also end this fugitiue life. Dacian was then Gouernour of Spaine, and a diligent minister of these impieties; who residing at Sarragosse, and seeing the constancie of the Christians to sur­passe his inhumanitie, he caused a proclamation to be made by the sound of the trumpet, that all those that were Christians should depart the towne, and haue leaue to retire where they pleased. The faithfull being joyfull hereof, went forth in great troups, thanking God for this libertie, thinking they would suffer them to depart: but they were not gone farre from the gates, before they were compassed in by armed souldiours, and cut in peeces. The multitude of those that were thus villanously murthered, was verie great, and therefore in those dayes the Christians by a certaine humane affection,From a humane affection of the antient Christi­ans, is grown the superstition, which in the end is become im­pious. more than for any religion, made account of the ashes, bones, and all things which did belong vnto those holy martyres, and did reue­rence the places where they had frequented, or were buried: not for any superstition, but to incite the liuing to imitate their pietie. This cruell Gouernour hauing committed this hor­rible massacre, sought also to depriue the faithful seruants (if any remained in the countrey) of all comfort: Wherefore hauing gathered all their bodies together, and murthered vpon them all the offendors, which were committed for any crimes, he burnt them all together, that the ashes (being thus mingled) should not be gathered vp by the Christians: whereupon the bruit was, That God (meaning to giue a testimonie of the innocencie of his people) made the ashes of the faithful to appeare verie white among the rest, the which, with a small shew­er which fell, were gathered together in white heapes: whereof those which haue come after, being moued with another zeale than the Christians of those times, haue made their profit. Lambert seruing a countrey man, was also beheaded, for that he would not renounce Iesus Christ. The bruit was, That hauing taken his head in his hands, he went two good leagues, vntil he came vnto the place where the bodies of the martyres aboue mentioned lay, and that there he began to sing, Exultabunt sancti in gloria, and that they answered, Et letabuntur in cubi­libus suis; and then he fell vpon them: the which I will not call into question, considering the end of myracles. There were many others put to death in Spaine, for the profession of the Gospell, during the gouernment of Dacian, whose names for breuities sake I omit, being not much pertinent to a historie. Dacian, a bloudie instrument of these cruelties, was during these executions slaine with fire from heauen.The wicked end of Ducian the persecutor. The like persecutions were in the other pro­uinces of the empire.

At this time liued Prudentius, borne in the prouince of Cantabria, of the countrey which is now called Alaba: he was bishop of Tarracone, and not the Poet aboue mentioned. There is a decretall epistle extant of Melchiades bishop of Rome, who liued in those times, vnto the bishops of Spaine, touching the Primacie of the Romane Sea: but it sauours not of the Latine stile of that age, no more than those of Marcelin, Marcellus, Eusebius, Syluester, Mare, Iulius, Liberius, Damasus, and Syricius: which must bee read with judgement. As for the politique Artes of Dioclesian and Maximian, although they were great, and worthie of memorie, yet the histories of Spaine make no mention of them. They recei­ued into their companie to gouerne the empire, Maximus Galerius, and Constantius Chlo­rus: the last in a good time tooke vpon him the gouernment of Spaine and Gaule, who dying [Page 124] in England, left the dignitie of Caesar to Constantine his sonne, who learned the first principles of religion, of a certaine Spaniard, as some write. Galerius adopted Seuerus, and Maximian the young. At the same time Dioclesian and Maximian resigned the imperiall dignitie at Mi­lan: but Maximian repenting himselfe, as he did striue to resume his authoritie at Rome, be­ing rejected by his sonne Maxenc [...] and the Pretorian souldiors, he fled towards his son in law Constantine, against whom he practised treason, and was slaine at Marseilles. Dioclesian a strange monster, who caused himselfe to be called, Brother to the Sunne and Moone, and to bee wor­shipped, liued long a priuat life: but God shewed a testimonie of his wrath vpon him in the end of his dayes; for he died madde,The miserable end of tyrants. eaten with vermine, and so infected and stinking, as none could endure to come neere him, howling (as Nicephorus writes) like a dog. Galerius slew him­selfe, as cruell as a butcher; for [...] he had beene from his youth. Seuerus was slaine by the facti­on of Maxence, whom the Pretorians had created Caesar. Maximian the younger died eaten with wormes, hauing beene vanquished neere vnto Tharse, by Licinius, whom Constantine had sent against him. Maxence, a cruel tyrant, and therefore hated of the Romans, as he thought to make head against Constantine, was defeated in battel neere vnto Rome, and drowned himself in the riuer of Tiber: all cruell and bloudie princes, enemies to the Church of God, remarka­ble for such as persecute it. After these, Licinius and Constantine held the empire, the one in the East, the other in the West. But Licinius who had maried Constantines sister, a cruell and barbarous man,Licinius an [...] learning. an enemie to Christians and all learning, tearming them a plague to the com­monweale, hauing no good thing in him, but that he persecuted the courtisans, whom he tear­med mice, sought to breake the order made betwixt him and Constantine: wherefore after that he had beene supprest aboue once, and reconciled to his brother in law, by the meanes of his wife Constance, he was slaine by his commaundement at Thessalonica; so as Constantine called the Great, remained sole emperor, who gaue peace vnto the Churches, much desired, and (if they could haue vsed it to the aduancement thereof) most happie.Constantine a good prince. This prince did great ho­nour vnto the Christians, imbraced the true religion, endowed the churches with rents and riches, caused the Gentiles temples to be beaten downe in many places, assembled by his imperiall authoritie the Councell of Nice in Bithinia,Anno 326. in the yeare 326, or 328, where there met 318 bishops of diuers countries; among the which was Osius bishop of Cordoua, who was also at the Councell of Gangre,Nice the first general Councell celebrated the same yeare. That of Nice is held the first generall Councell, where the impietie of the Arrians was condemned, the which notwith­standing did afterwards infect many nations. That Constantine made a donation of the citie of Rome, of Italie, and of all the Westerne empire, vnto Siluester then bishop of Rome, or that he had declared him head and primat ouer other bishops, and granted vnto him and his succes­sors, other things conteined in that which is called Constantines donation,A false donati­on fathere [...] v [...] ­on Constantine. besides, that Pope Pius the second doth jeast at it, there is no receiuable testimonie there of, nor any probable con­jecture: besides, the histories of following emperors, do argue the contrarie, euen they of the West. In the time of this emperor the Northerne nations inuaded Spaine, and spoiled that part of the countrey which lies neere the Ocean, from Gallicia vnto the strait: whither he led a great army, chased away the enemies, & restored the Spaniards (which were fled into moun­taines) vnto their houses, and setled an order in the prouince, as well for that wich concerned the temporaltie, as the churches. There was a prouinciall Councell held by his commaunde­ment at Illiberis,Illiberis where Callibre was built. at the foot of the Pyrenees, some call it Eliberis, a towne in the marches of Grenado: whither came Helena the mother of Constantine, with Constantine his eldest sonne, to whom he had assigned the Gauls and Spaine, for his portion. In this Councell Spaine was di­uided into fiue prouinces;Spaine vnder Constantine di­uided into fiue [...]. that is, that of Tarracone, Carthagene, Betica, Lusitania, and Gal­licia, in either of the which there was a Metropolitan appointed at Tarracone, new Carthage (to whom Toledo hath since succeeded) at Seuille, at Merida, and at Bracara. Some hold, that this Councell was more antient than that of Nice, among which Beuter affirmes, That Consci­us bishop of Cordoua, Osius predecessor, was there present: others say, that it was Osius him­selfe, & Quintian bishop of Ebora. Some beleeue that the emperor Constantine was not bapti­zed vntil he drew neer his death, being deceiued by the error of some, which beleeued that the circumstance of places gaue more authority to baptisme: for he had a great desire to be bapti­zed in Iordan. Many thought, that in the end of his daies he fel into the heresie of the Arrians, for that he had banisht Athanasius by the persuasion of the Arrians, & that his sister Constance [Page 125] liuing with him was an Arrian: but it is most certaine, that before his death he commaunded that Athanasius should be called home againe, and that he did not beleeue the confession of faith, nor the exposition made by Arrius, after that he had called him from banishment, but sent it to the Councell of Ierusalem, there to be examined. Of Constantines deeds in Spaine there are many medailles found in that countrey, and elsewhere, in our time, that beare wit­nesse. After him there raigned in the West Constantine and Constans, his sonnes, the East re­maining to Constantius their brother.Constantine the yong had Spaine and other pro­uinces for his portion. To Constantine was assigned Spaine, Gaule, and the islands of Britaine, or that which the Romanes held there. But Constantine being a proud and turbulent prince, he would make warre against his brother Constans, and take Italie from him: in which enterprise he was slaine neere vnto Aquilea, in the 25 yeare of his age: where­fore all the prouinces of his portion fell vnto Constans: in whose time the Poet Aurelius Pru­dentius Clement was borne at Sarragossa, or rather at Calaorra: Pacian bishop of Barcellona flourished in doctrine and good life.

The repeale of Arrius, granted by Constantine the great, had caused greater troubles in the Church than before: for being returned into Alexandria, he had confirmed his doctrine, and drawne many bishops vnto him; yea the emperour Constantius, who held the empire in the East, was infected with this errour, and did persecute the faithfull beleeuers: so as Atha­nasius being banished againe by him, and Paul of Constantinople, who retired to Constans his brother, they wrought so, as by the consent of the two brethren princes, a generall Coun­cell was called at Sardica,The Councell of Sardica. a towne in Illir [...]a; whither came two hundred and fiftie bishops, a­mong the which was Osius bishop of Cordoua, who was then verie old, Annianus of Castu­lo, Costus of Sarragossa, Domitian of Augusta (that is to say, Bracar) Florentine of Emerita, and Pretextatus bishop of Barcellona. There the confession of the faith, or Symbole of the Councell of Nice, was confirmed: But at the same time by reason of the bad agreement which was betwixt the two brethren Constans and Constantius, there was another assemblie of the Easterne bishops at Philipopolis in Thracia, who agreed not with any that held with A­thanasius and Paul. Councell of Syr­mium. And after that there was another held at Syrmium im Hungarie (whither Constantius went in person) and others elsewhere. The Councell of Sardica being ended, Constans entreated his brother Constantius, to restore Athanasius: the which he did, partly for loue, and partly for feare of warre: But Constans being dead, Athanasius was forced to saue himselfe by flight, being accused to haue persuaded Constans to make warre against his bro­ther for his sake:Arrians perse­cute the faithful and then the Arrian bishops began to persecute them that made profession of Athanasius his doctrine, more cruelly than the Dioclesians or Maximians. The Coun­cell of Syrmium,Anno 360. contrarie to that of Nice, was held in the yeare three hundred and three­score, or three hundred fiftie and six, according vnto some, whereas many wicked decrees were made and maintained, especially by Photinus, bishop of that place, who reuiued the blasphemies of Samosatenus, denying the two natures in Iesus Christ, borne of the virgine Marie.

This Councell, to suppresse all controuersies, would disguise the tearmes and manner of speaking, receiued in the Church; and in stead of saying, That Iesus Christ was coessentiall with the Father, or of the same essence, they propounded the tearme of Like in essence: Which two words in the Greeke tongue, doe somewhat symbolize, [...], and [...]. By this disguising, vnder which the poyson lay hidden, the good old man Osius the Spaniard, hauing constantly maintained the truth all his life time,The error of Osius. suffered himselfe to be deceiued and woon: whether that his great age had dulled his vnderstanding, or that he did it for feare of the emperour, who examined him vpon that point, and threatned him in the towne of Rimi­ni, where hee had againe assembled many bishops, causing him to commit this errour; saying, That both the one and the other said well. But the Orthodoxes did soone after reject that word of [...], as captious and deceitfull. Osius, as Isidore writes, dyed soone after in his impietie, strucken with the hand of God, in his bishoprick: and that being brought to Cordoua, Gregorie bishop of Illiberis, according to the Edict made by Constantius the em­peror, against the Christians, to force them to the Arrians opinion, he refusing to yeeld vnto it,The magistrat did not meddle with clergie men, before they were degraded. Osius prest Clementine Gouernour of the prouince, to banish him: but he answered, That he could not banish a bishop before he was deposed from his bishopricke, and judged incapable. Whereupon Osius richly attyred like a king, meaning to giue sentence against Gregorie, who [Page 126] lay prostrate vpon the earth, praying vnto God, that he would maintaine the glorie of his name, and his truth, against all Apostats: the which he demaunded earnestly, not to saue his life, the which he was readie to loose a thousand times for the confession of the faith, but to the end the simple should not be abused with the deceits of the Apostat Osius. Wher­upon it happened, that as Osius was readie to pronounce sentence against Gregorie, he sunke downe to the ground,Osius strucken with the hard of God, dyeth. hauing his mouth and necke drawne on the one side, and so dyed. The Gouernor amazed at this strange accident, kneeling downe, asked Gregorie forgiuenesse, con­fessing his ignorance, and excusing it vpon the commaundement of the emperour his prince. These things are written by Isidorus: but S. Augustine giues a better testimonie of Osius, wri­ting against Parmenian.

In the yeare of our redemption 369,Anno 369. there came vnto the bishopricke of Rome, which was not yet soueraigne, Damasus a Spaniard, borne at Vimaranes, a place in Portugall, be­twixt Minio and Duero, three leagues from Braga: he succeeded Felix, who was an Arrian, and therefore not numbred in the catalogue of the Bishops of Rome; for that they would make this [...] without all blemish. Among his other qualities, they say, he was a good Po­et: Saint Ierosme was his Secretarie. During the time of Constantines children, Iuuencus, a Spa­nish priest, and Poet, liued. Constantius the emperour was alreadie dead, with Iulian and Ioui­nian his successours, of whom Spaine hath nothing to speake. And then did Valentinian raigne in the West, and Valens in the East. Vnder Valens the Gothes chased by the Dacians, inuaded the Romane empire, whereas as the first they were receiued in peace: but the co­uetousnesse and wickednesse of Gouernours made them take armes,The Gothes in­uade the [...] empire. so as there grew a sharp warre, in the which the emperour Valens himselfe was slaine. This nation did erect a king­dome in Spaine, whose race, according to the common opinion, hath continued vnto this day.The impietie of Valens. The emperour Valens was addicted to the Arrian heresie, to Negromancie, and other impieties. We read, that being carefull who should succeed him in the empire, he was de­ceiued by the enemie of mankind, a murtherer from the beginning, who shewed him the let­ters [...] and persuaded him, that his name that should hold the empire after him, should begin with them: Whereof the emperour growing jealous, he caused all the Theodores, Theodoses, Theophiles, and others, whose names were compounded of Theos, to be slaine. But Theodosius, who succeeded him, a Spaniard bome, fell not into his hands. Hee was adopted by Gratian in the yeare three hundred fourescore and two,Anno 383. or fourescore and three, according vnto some, and raigned after him in the East, Valentinian the second brother to Gratian hol­ding the Westerne empire. His father was called Theodosius, and his mother Thermantia, and descended from the race of Traian. During his empire, there came out of Italie into Spaine, Paulin the Poet, a great friend to Ausonius, who became a monke, and liued a solitarie life. At the same time Priscilian bishop of Auila, published his heresie, mingled with the impie­ties of the Manicheans and Gnostiques, the which was condemned in a Counsell held at Bourdeaux, some time after. He was a sectarie to one Marke, a Disciple to Basilides, who during the empire of the Antonines had brought this heresie into Spaine, where it was recei­ued and fauoured by a great ladie called Agape, and drew to his opinions Helpidius a Rhetori­cian; so as this mischiefe lay smothered for a time, vntill that Priscilian did publish it: a man issued from a noble familie in Gallicia, eloquent and subtile. The fourth yeare of Theodosius empire,Ann. 368. which was in the yeare three hundred fourescore and six, or fourescore and seuen, there died at Constantinople in Theodosius his court, Athanaric king of the Gothes, who was become a friend and allie to the Romanes. Isidorus affirmes, That the yeare following the Gothes, being impatient of the Romane yoke, did chuse Alaric for their king. Others hold, that it was 14 yeares after, whereof we will intreat at large in the next booke.

In the yeare 388 Priscilian hauing beene condemned in the Counsel of Bourdeaux, he re­tired to Treues,Priscilian the here [...]ke [...]. to a tyrant called Maximin, some call him Clemens Maximus: who hauing caused Euodius his constable to heare him, he cut off his head, and of other his sectaries, a­mong the which was Matronianus a Spaniard,Bishops [...] for that they made themselues [...] parties [...]. an excellent Poet. Ithacius and Visatius, Bi­shops, were accusers, and parties against Priscilian, by reason whereof they were excom­municated and banished. Sigebert saith, That it was taken ill, when as by the accusation of a­ny man a Bishop was put to death. For one hereticke, author of a sect in Spaine, there li­ued in those times many religious and learned men; as Lucinius, Beticus, Abigaus, Abundius, [Page 127] Auitus, Olympus, Audentius, Vigilantius, who although he were a Gaule, yet he did reside at Barcelona; against whom S. Ierosme did write very vehemently, for that hee did condemne the superfluous honour done vnto the reliques. Theodosius hauing in the yeare 387 made his sonne Arcadius, Caesar; tenne yeares after he aduanced Honorius his other sonne to the same dignitie, who after his decease were Emperours, Arcadius in the East, and Honorius in the West, by the death of Valentinian the second, and of Eugenius the tyrant: these two princes were borne in Spaine, as the Poet Claudian writes. In their time the Gothes began to disperse themselues ouer the West, where they committed infinit spoyles, vntill in the end they setled themselues in Gaule, Spaine, and lastly in Italie, blemishing the name and majestie of the Em­perours in these rich Prouinces.

❧ THE FIFTH BOOKE OF the Historie of Spaine.

• 1 THe beginning of the Gothes, and their aduentures in Hungarie, Mesia, and Thrace.
• 2 Their Religion.
• 3 Their warres against the Emperours of the East.
• 4 Descent of the Gothes into Italie vnder Alaric.
• 5 Athaulphe who first erected the Gothes kingdome in Gaule, and inuaded Spaine.
• 6 First Councell of Toledo, and the estate of religion then in Spaine.
• 7 Vallia the first king of the Gothes, which erected a kingdome in Spaine.
• 8 Reigne of the Sueues in Gallicia.
• 9 Reigne of Theodoric the second king of Gothes in Spaine.
• 10 Torismond the third king of Gothes.
• 11 Theodoric the second of that name, and fourth king of Gothes.
• 12 Henry, the fifth king.
• 13 Alaric the second of that name, sixt king.
• 14 Gensalaric the seuenth king, his cruelties and death.
• 15 Amalaric the eight king, and vnder him the second Councell of Toledo.
• 16 Councels at Tarracone, Girone, Sarragosse, Ilerda, and Valencia.
• 17 The second Councell of Toledo.
• 18 Discourse vpon the vncertainetie of the histories of Spaine, touching the reigne of Amalaric, and deeds of Theodoric king of Italie, whom the Spaniards make his grandfather by the mothers side.
• 19 Theude the ninth king of the Gothes in Spaine.
• 20 Theodiscle the tenth king of the Gothes in Spaine.
• 21 Agila the eleuenth king.
• 22 Athanagilde the twelfth king.
• 23 Luiba the thirteenth king.
• 24 Leonigilde the foureteenth king, and his deeds.
• 25 End of the reigne of the Sueues in Gallicia. [Page 126] [...] [Page 127] [...]
• [Page 128] 26 Ricared the fifteenth king: abiuration of the Arrian heresie at the third Councell of Toledo: re­formation of the Gothicke lawes.
• 27 Luiba the second of that name, sixteenth king, cruell, his death.
• 28 Vuiteric the seuentcenth king, a tyrant.
• 29 Gundamyr the eighteenth king.
• 30 Sizebut the nineteenth king.
• 31 Suintilla the twentieth king, deposed for his vices.
• 32 Sizenand the one and twentieth king: the fourth Councell of Toledo.
• 33 Cinthilla the two and twentieth king: and the fift and sixt Councels of Toledo.
• 34 Tulba the three and twentieth king.
• 35 Cindasuinthe the foure and twentieth king, vnder whom was the seuenth Councell of Toledo.
• 36 Recesuinthe the fiue and twentieth king: and the ninth and tenth Councels of Toledo.
• 37 Bamba the six and twentieth king: rebellion of Paule and others in Gothike Gaule, and their pu­nishment.
• 38 The eleuenth Councell of Toledo vnder him, and some decrees.
• 39 Eringe the seuen and twentieth king, and vnder him the twelfth, thirteenth, and foureteenth Councels of Toledo.
• 40 Egica the eight and twentieth king, vnder whom were the fifteenth, sixteenth, and seuenteenth Councels of Toledo.
• 41 Vitiza the nine and twentieth king, cruell and infamous: the eighteenth Councell at Toledo.
• 42 Roderic the thirtieth and last king of Gothes in Spaine, his vices: inuasion of Spaine by the Moores and Arabians, and the end of the Gothes reigne.
• 43 A Catalogue of the auncient Bishops of Spaine.

BEing to treat of the Gothes kingdome in Spaine, it is fit to know from what region they are come, and by what accidents they first seated them­selues in Spaine, Honorius sonne to Theodosius the Great then reigning in the West.

1 The Gothes are issued from the Getes,The Gothes come out of Asia int [...] Europe. and their first beginning was in Asia: they passed into Europe long before, and did first seize vpon the higher countrey of Thrace and Mysia, which is at this day Bulgaria, Bosna, Rascia, Seruia, and, it may be, a part of Hungarie; and in the end they came to either banke of the riuer of Danube: and then by degrees peopling all that lyes betwixt that riuer and the Northerne shore of the Baltike sea, they did in the end hold all that continent, which extends it selfe in manner of an island in the bosome thereof, with all the neighbour islands. They were famous for a long time in Dacia, in those regions which wee now call Valachia, Transyluania,Gothes, Ge [...]es, & Gepides, all one nation. and Moldauia, where they were called Getes and Gepides. In the times of Alexander the Great there were certaine encounters betwixt the Grecians and the Gothes, not farre from the island of Peuce, aboue Constantinople; at the mouths of Danube, or Ister, as they called it in that place. Syrmius reigned ouer that nation at that time. We read also, That Lysimachus, one of Alexanders successors, was vanquished in battaile, and taken by a king of the Gothes, whom hee afterwards set freely at libertie, and married his daughter. After which, in tract of time other nations being mingled with them, those which did inhabite the great Peninsule, which the auncients called Scandia and Scandinauia (yet little knowne to them) retained the name of Gothes and the language; the which, as some affirme, was like vnto that of the Celtes: others hold, That it was the Teuton or Dutch tongue: which lan­guages being corrupted, differ much at this day from those times, when they were in their greatest puritie. From these Northerne regions, which containe at this day the realmes of Suethland and Denmarke, often and vpon diuers occasions there came great troupes of peo­ple, who tooke possession againe of the countries joyning to the Venedique or Baltike sea,The Gothish tongue. and of the islands thereof, chasing away the inhabitants; and aduauncing into the maine land, they did repossesse Dacia and Mysia, and ouerrun the higher Thrace, vnder Filymer, sonne to Gandaric, who was the fift king after this returne. In these countries they planted their bounds vpon the Danube, and there reigned some ages: they did encrease their fame with great vi­ctories, and did giue their name to many nations whom they subjected. They inuaded the Ro­mane [Page 129] Empire in the time of Decius, vnder the conduct of their king Giua, and did vanquish the Romanes in a great battaile, whereas Decius and his sonne were slaine: after which, by many victories they made themselues fearefull to the Romans, so as the Emperous were often glad to haue them for friends and companions in arms; and by the vertue and valor of their troups, which they entertained, did often execute great matters.

About the time of Valentinian and Valens, Hermanaric reigned ouer the Gothes,The Hunschase the Gothes out of their cōquests. who van­quished many nations: who notwithstanding yeelded to the force of the Hunnes, fathers to the Hungarians, who came at that time out of Asia into Europe, in great numbers, through the fennes of Meotides. Hermanaric being dead, and Vithimir his successor slaine in battaile, the Gothes estate was ouerthrowne, and troden vnder foot by the Hunnes: wherefore such as would not liue vnder the Conquerors subjection, retyred themselues into diuers other coun­tries. Athanaric, who had shewed himselfe an enemie to Valens, in supporting Procopius his rebell, would not trust him, and therefore he tooke his course towards the North, and did in­habite with his troupes in the forrests of Sarmatia. But Fritigerne and Alauin being followed with a great number of Gothes, came vnto the bankes of Danube, vpon the confines of the Empire, where desiring to be admitted to dwell with the other subjects, Valens consented, sup­posing that they should serue as a rampier against forraine nations, that would inuade the em­pire on that side.

Then there arriued vpon the same marches Vitheric, Distinction of the East and West Gothes. sonne to Vithimir, with his tutors Ala­thee and Safrax, and also Farnabe, conductors of other great troupes. Then did the Romans be­gin to distinguish these people, into Ostrogoths or East Goths, and Visigoths or West Goths: calling those which did remaine vnder the domination of the Hunnes, Ostrogoths; and those Visigots which had passed the Danube, and dwelt in Hungarie, Mysia, and Thracia: the which distinction was ancient among them, according to their countries and abodes, and was againe practised in Italie, Gaule, and Spaine, when as this nation had erected kingdomes there; whereof the princes were diuided into two families or factions: that is, the H [...]mels or Ama­les, and the Baltes.

2 The name of Iesus Christ had beene many yeares preached among this nation,Christian religi­on among the Gothes. before the Emperour Valens time: for we read, That at the Councell of Nice, which was vnder Con­stantine the Great, among others, there came Theophilus a Bishop of the Gothes: wherefore they were alreadie Christians and Orthodoxes, although there were some idolatrous princes among them, and by consequence, part of the people: so as when they came vpon the territo­ries of the Empire, Valens reigning in the East, they had Bishops, whereof the most famous was Vulphilas.

The manner how they became Arrians, is reported by Theodorite, in the fourth booke of the Ecclesiasticall Historie,Gothes made Arrians by the Romanes. saying, That after the Gothes had passed the riuer of Ister or Danube, and that they had made their peace with Valens, Eudoxus who was an Arrian, persuaded Valens, who was also infected with this heresie, to draw the Gothes to his opinions, for that conformi­tie in religion would make the peace more firme. Wherewith Valens hauing acquainted the princes & heads of the Gothike nation, they made answer, That they could not chāge the do­ctrine of their ancestors. Then Eudoxus addressing himselfe to Vulphilas, whom he knew to be couetous and ambitious, he preuailed so with faire words & money, as he got him to persuade the Gothes to receiue the Emperors confession of faith: the which he did, saying, That they were but childish contentions,Docilitie of the Gothike nation. and debates for words, and not for doctrine: for this Vu [...]philas was in great credit with the Goths, and they say, that he inuented the Gothike letters, and tran­slated the Bible into that tongue. Thus were these people gouerned by their Bishops and Pre­lates: they were a free people and couragious, and withall, tractable and apt to learning and Philosophie, the which they learned, frequenting with more ciuile nations: hardie and valiant, and yet familiar and liberall; apt to arms, tall and of a goodly stature, strong and patient to en­dure all the discommodities of warre.

This new nation being seated in the territories of the Empire,The crueltie, a­uarice, and infi­d [...]lit [...]e of Valen [...]s and his lieute­nants against the Gothes. the Emperor was aduised to make his profit of them, and to draw money and other commodities from them for their dwel­lings, and for the vse of the land, water, and ayre which he graunted them; the which he could well put in practise, especially his gouernors & lieutenants, so as this nation found themselues in a short time oppressed with a harder seruitude vnder the Romane Empire, than their coun­treymen [Page 130] were vnder the Hunnes: For the Gothes being distressed for victuals, Lupicin and Maximus Gouernours of Thrace, inuented all the wicked deuices they could to make them poore, and to strip them of that they had, making them to eat dogs and other beasts, for euery one of which they were forced to giue a man to be a slaue. Besides Lupicin hauing caused Fri­tigerne and Alauin, captains of the Gothes, to come to Martianopolis, to conferre with them vpon the complaints which were made of these inhumanities, hee incensed them with proud and injurious words: so as hauing cunningly escaped out of his hands, they afterwards decla­red themselues enemies to the Romane Empire, so as there grew a great and cruell warre be­twixt the Gothes and the Romanes, by the which the Emperour and his lieutenants were pu­nished for their couetousnesse and impieties: Lupicin seeking to suppresse the spoyles which the Goths made, was defeated, and in the end after many vnfortunat encounters betwixt both parties,Defeat of the Emperor Valens armie, and his miserable end. the Emperour Valens hauing lost a battaile, where the best of his men died, he also lost his life, being burnt by the Gothes in a country house, into the which he was retired wounded, after the losse of the battaile: and without the valour and wisdome of Theodosius (whom God raised vp to succeed Valens in the East) the Gothes had rooted out the name of the Romanes in that countrey. But Theodosius a Spaniard,Theodosius a good Prince. a wise and vertuous prince, did suppresse them, and afterwards made a peace with them: so as after the death of Fritigerne, his successor Atha­naric, a friend and well affected to the Romane Empire, died in Theodosius court: after which, the Gothes remained 14 yeares quietly vnder the Romane Emperours, without any king of their nation,Alaric chiefe of the Gothes. vntill that Alaric, one of their captaines, who had serued Theodosius in his warres against Eugenius the tyrant, rebelled, and put the Gothes in armes, Arcadius and Honorius, sonnes to Theodosius, sitting in the imperiall seat.

3 The Gothes disdaining to be any more subject to the Romanes, and meaning to chuse a king of their owne, there grew a sedition and warre among themselues; some desiring Alaric, others Radagase: but Alaric had the soueraigntie. Wherefore Radagase with aboue two hundred thousand of that nation went into Italie, whilest that Alaric opprest Hungarie; against whom Stilico, who gouerned the Westerne Empire vnder Honorius, opposed himselfe: and finding this armie of Gothes shut vp in the Appenine hils, bordering vpon Tuscane, it was consumed with hunger and pouertie:Radagase slain, and his armie of Gothes ruiued. their leader Radagase was taken and strangled, and those which re­mained, were sold in great troupes, for slaues, at a small rate. This Radagase was an idolatrer, and would haue planted idolatrie againe in Italie. It was at such a season, when as the Ro­mane Empire was in greatest combustion, especially in the West: for besides the inuasion of the Gothes in Italie,The French in­uade Gaule. the Frenchmen, a people of Germanie, bordering vpon Gaule, sought to make a breach there, and entred in great troupes vpon the countrey adjoyning vpon the riuer of Rhene: against whom, Stilico (who was a Henete or Sclauonian borne) meaning to fortifie himselfe with barbarous nations) called into Gaule the Bourguignons, Sueues, Alanes, and Vandales, nations which were chased out of their countries, on the one side by the Hunnes, and on the other by the Gothes: who afterwards raunged and spoyled Gaule themselues, and would haue seized thereon; for the which they had many encounters with the Emperours Lieutenants, with variable successe. Great was the ver­tue and valour then of Constantius Patricius, who gouerned Gaule Narbonoise, the which wee now call by the name of Prouence and Languedoc, by whom the Vandales were re­pulsed, and forced to passe into Spaine; where for a time they did ouerrun the countrey, and being afterwards followed by the Alanes and Sueues, they sought to settle themselues there. Gunderic reigned ouer the Vandales, Hermeric ouer the Sueues, and the Alanes were commaunded by Resplandian or Atace, according vnto some. These diuided Spaine betwixt them:The Barbarians diuide the con­quest of Spaine betwixt them. so as the Alanes should make warre in the countrey of Carthagene, and in part of Portugall or Lusitania, as it was then called: part of the Vandales, called Silinges, should conquer Betica, called since Andalusia: and the other Vandales, with the Sueues, should set­tle in Gallicia.

4 After the defeat of Radagase, Alaric marched into Italie with a great armie,Alaric passeth into Italie. and de­maunded to diuide the Empire with Honorius; to whom by the counsell of Stilico, Hono­rius graunted the possession of Gaule and Spaine, who were also in prey to the French and other nations. Alaric and the Gothes marching towards the Alpes, doubting no surprize, were charged by an armie which Stilico had sent after them, to keepe them from spoyling [Page 131] Italie, vnder the commaund of a Iew called Saule, who had a secret commaundement to set vpon the Gothes armie, when they should be most busied in the straits of the mountaines; the which hee could not put in execution: for the Gothes seeing themselues betrayed, gathered 5 their forces together, and put themselues in battaile as well as they could,Trecherie of Still [...] and de­feat of the impe­riall army. defending them­selues so valiantly, as the imperiall armie was defeated: wherefore Alaric being victor, and full of a furious desire of reuenge, leauing the way to Gaule, he turned backe, and did miserably spoyle the countries, which were since called Lumbardie, Tuscane, and Romania, putting all to fire and sword,Rome taken by the Gothes. euen to the gates of Rome; the which he tooke after a long siege, and sacked it, pardoning the holy places, and those that were fled into them. From thence hee did ouerrun Italie, euen vnto the furthest bounds: then returning towards Rome, he died sud­dainely neere vnto Cosence, and was buried in the riuer of Barsente, turned out of her course for that cause,The death of Alaric. and afterwards drawne againe into her old bed by the Gothes: who after his death made choice of Ataulphe, his cousin, for their king, being a very wise man. Hauing brought backe the armie to Rome, he spoyled all that remained of the first sacke: yet he was somewhat pacified by the loue of Placidia Galla, Ataulphe Ala­rics successors pacified by P [...]a [...]idia. sister to the Emperour Honorius, being priso­ner; whom by reason of her nobilitie and beautie; he married at Forly in Romania. From that time hauing some respect to Honorius, as his allie, he resolued to leaue Italie, and take his way into Gaule, according to the first agreement betwixt Honorius and Alaric; where bee erected the kingdome of the Visigothes, restrained the French within certaine limits, and helped to chase away the rest of the Vandales, Alanes, and Sueues, beyond the Pyrenees, where he after­wards pursued them.

A little before these accidents, one Constantine, of a simple souldior being growne captaine of the Legions which were in great Britaine, hauing slaine a tyrant who had seized vpon that island vnder the Roman Empire,Constantine a tyrant. called Gratian, had passed into Gaule, to vsurpe the imperiall title there, and from thence had sent Gouernours into Spaine. But two noblemen Spaniards, Didimus and Seuerianus, or Verianus, or Verinianus (for this diuersitie is found in authors) rich and mightie men, opposed themselues: and seeking to preserue the prouince for the law­full Emperour, they gathered some troupes together, of friends and subjects, and seized vpon the passages of the mountaines, to keepe these gouernours and their companies from passing. Against these Spaniards, the tyrant sent a sonne of his called Constant, whom hee had drawne out of a Monasterie, and proclaimed him Caesar: who being followed by an ar­mie of Barbarians, which he called Honoriaques, he defeated and slew the two brethren. These Honoriaques being masters of the straits and passages of the Pyrenees by this vi­ctorie, and hauing afterwards rebelled with their captaine Gerontius, they (as some hold) deliuered Spaine to the Vandales, Alanes, and Sueues, after the death of the tyrant Con­stantine, and of his sonne Constant, whereof the one was taken at Arles, and the other dis­patched at Vienna: These nations joyning together to rob and spoyle, Palantia, since cal­led Palenza, was the first towne of Spaine, which fell in prey to these Barbarians, who be­sieged Toledo in vaine, ransomed Lisbone, and committed infinite spoyles, whilest that Maximus, Maximus a tyrant. another tyrant, being rebelled against the Emperour, sought during these com­bustions to make himselfe king of Spaine of another side: who being taken by them that did yet reuerence the majestie of the Romane Empire, he was depriued of his vsurped roy­altie, yet his life was saued.

Spaine for the space of two yeares was thus miserably oppressed, as well by tyrants as by these cruell nations: so as there remained nothing but the mountaines of the Canta­brians, at this present Biscaye and Nauarre, in the quiet possession of the Romanes, main­tained by Constantius Patricius, who was the Emperours Lieutenant on this side the Alpes: which was at such time as the Vandales, Sueues, and Alanes made the diuision of Spaine. Then did Ataulphe passe into Spaine, to dispossesse them, according to the right he had by an accord made with Honorius his brother in law: but as he was at Barcelona, he was slaine, with six children which he had had by another wife than Placidia. The time and cause of his death are not reported alike. Iornandes sayth,A [...]aulph [...] slaine by his owne men. That he was slaine (hauing reigned three yeares in Spaine and Gaule) being thrust into the flanke by Vernulphe, whom he was accustomed to jest at. Some affirme, That he had been chased, and forced to passe into Spaine by Constantius Patricius Gouernour of Gaule.

[Page 132] The Christian religion during these troubles and forraine inuasions was not neglected a­mong the Spaniards:Ann. 402. for in the yeare 402 (although others write 420) was held at Toledo 6 the first Councell by 29 Bishops,The first Coun­cell of Toledo. where Patron Bishop of Toledo did preside against the he­resie of Priscilian. He had beene Bishop of Auila, and had published an heresie mixt with the errors of the Gnostiques, Manicheans, and auncient Philosophers: among other opinions, he maintained, That the soule of man was a portion of the Diuinitie: he was condemned first at a Councell held at Bourdeaux, and from thence he appealed to Maximus the tyrant, who caused him to be heard at Treues; then he commaunded his head to be cut off, with some of his followers. This Councell notwithstanding gaue place to a single life, and decreed, That priests should liue continually vnmarried. This decree was contradicted by Vigilantius, who liued then at Barcelona, who did also write against the abuse of reliques, against whom S. Ie­rosme was very bitter. Many learned men liued at that time in Spaine,Learned men in Spaine. as Lucinius, Abigaus, A­bundius, Auitus, Olympus, Audentius, Turbius, P. Orosius, and others: yet the Church was de­clined much from her auncient puritie, and then grew in request ceremonies, vowes, merits, reliques, and miracles; for the clergie was then much infected with couetousnesse and ambi­tion. Then came the Vandales and Gothes, who were all infected with the heresie of Arrian, who did in some sort persecute the good, as we shall heare.

Ataulphe being dead, the Gothes did chuse Sigeric for their king, who reigned but a yeare, and was slaine by his owne men, in disdaine that he was too desirous of peace. He left many children, Giseric, Huneric, Guntemaud, Trasamund, and Hilderic: yet Vallia succeeded him, to the end he should breake the peace with the Romanes: but God had otherwise de­creed, for he confirmed it more. With him (according vnto some) begins the reigne of the Vice-Gothes in Spaine.

❧ THE SIXT BOOKE OF the Historie of Spaine.

• 1 OF the Moores or Arabians which inuaded Spaine, their beginning and manners.
• 2 Mahumets sect, his birth, designs, and Empire, & of his successors, vnto Vlit the tenth Caliph.
• 3 Conquest of Spaine by the Moores.
• 4 Pelagius the deliuerer of Spaine, and first king of Ouiedo.
• 5 Garcia Ximenes deliuerer of the Christians oppressed in Spaine, first king in Sobrarbre and Na­uarre.
• 6 Fafila second king of Ouiedo: many Gouernors Moores in Spaine in his time.
• 7 Alphonse third king of Ouiedo.
• 8 D. Froila fourth king of Ouiedo, the first which vsed the title of Don.
• 9 Abderamen first soueraigne king of the Moores in Spaine, sitting at Cordoua.
• 10 D. Aurelle fift king of Ouiedo.
• 11 D. Sillo sixt king of Ouiedo.
• 12 D. Aznar first Earle of Arragon vnder Nauarre.
• 13 D. Garcia Inigo second king of Sobrarbre or Nauarre.
• 14 D. Mauregat seuenth king of Ouiedo.
• 15 D. Bermund eight king of Ouiedo.
• 16 Hizen second soueraigne king ouer the Moores in Spaine.
• 17 D. Galinde second Earle of Arragon.
• 18 Cattelogne, the name, and the gouernment of the Christians in that prouince vnder Bernard.
• 19 D. Alphonse the chast, ninth king of Ouiedo.
• 20 Inuention of S. Iaques his sepulchre, as the Spaniards affirme.
• 21 Haliathan third soueraigne king ouer the Spanish Moores.
• 22 Expedition of Charlemaigne into Spaine, and the defeat at Ronceaux.
• 23 D. Fortun third king of Sobrarbre and Nauarre.
• 24 D. Sancho Garces fourth king of Nauarre.
• 25 D. Ximen Aznaris third Earle of Arragon.
• 26 D. Ximen Garces fourth Earle of Arragon.
• D. Garci Aznaris fift and D. Fortun Ximenes sixt Earle of Arragon.
• 27 Geoffrey of Aria the stemme of the Earles of Barcelone.
• 28 D. Ramit the first of that name, tenth king of Ouiedo.
• 29 D. Ximen Inigo fift king of Nauarre.
• 30 D. Ordogno eleuenth king of Ouiedo and Leon.
• 31 Muza Aben-Cacin makes himselfe king of Toledo.
• 32 Mahumet fift Miralmumin or king of the Moores in Spaine, the first of that name.
• 33 D. Geoffroy second Earle of Barcelone, successor to Bernard.
• 34 D. Alphonse third of that name and twelfth king of Leon.
• 35 Toledo reduced vnder the obedience of the Moores kings of Cordoua.
• [Page 160] 36 D. Inigo Arista sixt king of Sobrarbe and Nauarre.
• 37 D. Garcia Inigo third of that name, seuenth king of Nauarre.
• 38 D. Suria a Scottish man, the beginner of the Lords of Biscaye.
• 39 Almundir sixt Moorish king in Spaine.
• 40 D. Garcia first of that name, the thirteenth king of Ouiedo and Leon.
• 41 Abdalla seuenth king of the Moores in Spaine.
• 42 D. Fortun second of that name, eight king of Nauarre.
• 43 D. Salomon third Earle of Barcelone.
• 44 D. Geoffrey the hairie, fourth Earle of Barcelone, and first Proprietarie.
• 45 D. Ordogno second of that name, foureteenth king of Ouiedo and Leon.
• 46 Abderamen Almansor eighth king of the Moores.
• 47 The death of the Earles of Castille, among the which was D. Diego Porcello.
• 48 D. Froila second of that name, fifteenth king of Leon.
• 49 The alteration of the state in Castille, and the gouernment of the Prouince by two Iudges.

❧ In this sixt Booke there is speciall mention made of the beginning of the Estates of Ouiedo and Leon, of Sobrarbe and Na­uarre, of Cordoua, Cattelogne, Castille, and Arragon, and of the Prouinces thereof, which were these.

• 1 Pelagius.
• 2 Fafila.
• 3 Alphonso 1.
• 4 Froila 1.
• 5 Aurelle.
• 6 Sillo.
• 7 Mauregat.
• 8 Bermund 1.
• 9 Alphonso 2.
• 10 Ramir 1.
• 11 Ordogno 1.
• 12 Alphonso 3.
• 13 Garcia 1.
• 14 Ordogno 2.
• 15 Froila 2.

• 1 Garcia Ximenes 1.
• 2 Garcia Inigo 2.
• 3 Fortun 1.
• 4 Sancho Garces 1.
• 5 Ximen Inigo.
• 6 Inigo Aristia.
• 7 Garcia Inigo 3.
• 8 Fortun 2.

• 1 Aznar.
• 2 Galinde.
• 3 Ximen Aznaris.
• 4 Ximen Garces.
• 5 Garci Aznaris.
• 6 Fortun Ximenes.

• 1 Nugno Fernandes.
• 2 Diego Porcello.
• 3 Nugno Bellides.

• 1 Nugno Razura.
• 2 Flauin Caluo. Gonçal Nugnes.

• 1 Bernard.
• 2 Geoffrey Aria.
• 3 Salomon.

• 1 Geoffrey the hairie.

• There were many Gouernours vn­der the Caliphes and Miralmumins of Asia and Africke, vnto Abderamen, who first erected a Soueraignetie at Cordoua.

• 1 Abderamen 1.
• 2 Hizen.
• 3 Hali Athan.
• 4 Abderamen 2.
• 5 Mahumet 1.
• 6 Almundir.
• 7 Abdalla.
• 8 Abderam [...]n 3.

[Page 161] THe Arabians Mahumetists which conquered Spaine,Arabians we­sterne Moores. were also called 1 Moores, for that they crossed Mauritania, a region of Africk, which is op­posit vnto Spaine, from the which Tingitana is diuided by a small strait, the which when as Tarif passed, was subject vnto the Gothes, and gouer­ned by Recila, a friend and partisan to Count Iulian. It is therfore expedi­ent to speak something of this nation, whose power in a short time did in a manner surpasse all the Monarchies which haue been in the world.

Arabia is a spacious region,Arabia and the parts. diuided into many parts: The auncients made a partition into three; the Happie, the Stonie, and the Desart. Arabia the Happie was so called, in regard of the two other which are barren, little knowne to the auncients, and nothing at all annoyed by the Romane armies. Arabia Petrea or Stonie carried that name of the capitall citie Petra, which had their kings, sometimes friends and allied, but most commonly enemies vnto their neighbours, and often tributaries to the auncient kings of Persia and Aegypt (whereunto they joyne) and afterwards to the Romanes. The Desart Arabia hath not at any time had any cer­taine policie, and very few townes, whose princes were but leaders of troupes of theeues, ene­mies to all quiet,The manners of the Arabians. seeking nothing but warre, mercinarie to kings and princes that would em­ploy them, a people without humanitie, without faith, and without any religion. All this countrey extends from East to West, almost from the floud Euphrates vnto Nyle, hauing Sy­ria on the North side, and the Ocean to the South. Whilest that the Romane Emperours were in continuall warre against the kings of Parthia and Persia, either partie employed this nation, who went for the most part to the warre on horsebacke, fit to spoyle a countrey, to seize suddainely vpon a passage, to discouer, surprize, or doe any other action of warre, which required expedition, especially if there were more question to forrage & spoyle than to fight. This race is descended from Ismael, Arabians Is­mael [...]tes. of whom it is said, That his hand should be against all, and all hands against him.

2 Among these people Mahumet was borne,Mahumet his birth and countrey. in the yeare of our redemption 580 (some say, it was in the yeare 591, and others 593) to trouble Christendome, and to punish their ingratitude, which tearmed themselues Christians, Maurice being then Emperour of Con­stantinople. The place of his birth was called Itrarip, a little towne neere vnto Mecque; his father called Abedela, was a Pagan and an Idolatrer, and his mother Emina a Iew, a poore begging girle, the which was taken vp by Abedela for loue, for that she seemed faire. At the age of two yeares he was left an orphan; whereupon he was taken by an vncle of his, called Salutaleb [...], and bred vp in his house by Hal [...]ma his wife, vntill the age of sixteene yeares, and then hee was carried away by a troupe of Arabian theeues, who met him alone, and sold him to a rich marchant, who said, That he was of the race of Ismael, and was called Abdi­monepli, who employed Mahumet some yeares in his trade of marchandise, whereby he had occasion to see many countries, and to tast many religions, especially the Iewish and Pagan, to the which was added the Christian religion, which was then much corrupted, and was made much worse to him by the conuersation of an Arrian Monke called Sergus, Ambition the mother of here­sies. who haunted the house of his master Abdimonepli. With this Monke and others he layed a plot to make himselfe famous by a remarkable impietie, and framed a doctrine drawne from the Iewish and the Arrian, mingled with other their inuentions: the which he afterwards brought in, partly by persuasions, partly by money, and partly by force, being enriched with his ma­sters treasure, after whose death he had married his widow called Adegiah; so as about the yeare 623 he was receiued and acknowledged by the Arabians for their captaine and great Prophet.Mahumets do­ctrine published in Heraclius time. Then was Heraclius in the imperiall seat at Constantinople; and a little before there had risen many seditions in Syria and Aegypt, during the which, Mahumet had plotted his designs, and had made himselfe famous among the seditious. And moreouer, certain mer­cinarie bands of Arabian Scenits being cast and sent away with injuries by the Commissaries of Heraclius the Emperor, he drew them vnto him, and with these forces in a short time seized vpon a great part of Arabia, namely, of the townes of Mecque and Itrarip, the place of his birth,The Arabians begin the ac­count of their yeares at 617. the which was afterwards called Medinath-Al-Nabi, that is to say, the city of the great Prophet; and from the day that place was taken, in the yeare 617, the Arabians and sectaries of Mahumet account their yeares, as we do ours from the Natiuitie of our Lord Iesus Christ. [Page 162] Others say, That Medina or Almedina was another rich towne inhabited by rich Iewes, whereof Mahumet gaue the spoyle to his souldiors, abhorring it aboue all other sects, for it seemed more opposit to his doctrine than any other; yet it is most certain, that he vsed Iewes to compound his doctrine. And vpon a defeat which the Persians had by the Romanes in those times, he tooke occasion to inuade Syria, and seized vpon the countrey about Damas, and then tried to extend his limits all he could, employing in the end of his dayes his Lieute­nants to make his conquests, whilst that he rested at Mecque, which was in the beginning the seat of his Empire. In his later daies he made foure captaines, the which he called the cutting swords of God, the common sort tearmed them Amiraux; Amiraux. the which were Ebubezer, whom some call Vbequar, others Bubacus or Eubocara; then Homar, Ozmen, and Aly. This last was son to Salutaleby, Mahumets vncle. Ebubezer was his father in law; for Mahumet had many wiues, and Ebubezers daughter was called Aixa or Aissa. This monster hauing reigned about ten yeares, hee died at Medinath Al-Nabi,Death of Ma­humet. in the house of this Ebubezer, of poyson, as some say: for ha­uing published among other articles, That he should rise againe within three dayes after his decease, one of his disciples impatient to attend, and curious to see the experience of his do­ctrine, poysoned him secretly: and some say, That he kept him 12 daies, and in the end seeing that he was dead, and his bodie so corrupted and stinking, as no man could endure it, this disci­ple being forced to retire by reason of the abominable smel of carrion, and returning soone af­ter, he found the dogs had torne it in pieces: wherefore hee gathered the bones together, the which were put in a coffin of yron, and in time caused a chappell to be built, vaulted with ada­mant stone, so as the cofer being put into it, the vertue of the stone drew it vp into the ayre, where it did hang, which seemed miraculous vnto the ignorant: yet such as haue trauelled into those countries in our time, say there is no such thing now to be seene. He had one son called Cacin, Cacin, Mahu­mets sonne. Fatima and Zeineb his daughters. who died before him, and many daughters, wherof Fatima is famous among the Arabi­ans, as the stemme of the royall race of Aben-Alabecy, & was wife to Aly, according to the most certaine. Zeineb also, another of Mahumets daughters, wife to Ozmen, or (as some say) to Muha­uias (it may be to both successiuely) is honoured by this nation, and Muhauias her husband (as the beginning of another royall familie) called Aben-Humeya. There is mention made of Imi­cultin and of Nephissa, daughters or neere kinswomen to this false Prophet: The sepulchre of the last was found in Caire by Sultan Selym, Emperour of the Turkes in our fathers time, and in it aboue the value of 500000 duckats in gold coyned, with much other treasure, which was giuen and carried thither for almes.

Mahumet had decreed, That Aly his cousin german, and sonne in law, one of the abouenamed Amiraux, should succeed him in the realme established by him: but Ebubezer his father in law, who was rich and mightie, and had Ozmen and Homar on his side, brake this ordinance: for he pretended, that Mahumet had gotten a great part of that which he enjoyed at his death, by his means, credit, & wealth, & seeing that he died in his house, it was reason he should be his heire. Ozmen and Homar were nothing discontented: for hauing also a desire to reigne, they were more willing the crowne should come to Ebubezer (who they did confidently beleeue would soone die, by reason of his age) than vnto Aly, who was yong and in the prime of his age. Ebu­bezer therfore reigned,Ebubezer Ca­liph or High Priest of the Arabians in the 11 yeare. & was created High Priest of the Arabians, otherwise called Sarasins, as in the time of the Christian Emperors of the East, who did willingly entertaine this nation, they were commonly called. The name comes of the country Saracena, in Arabia foelix, or the happie, in which region, according to the same author, was the towne of Saraca, but farre off from these other people.Sarasins why so called. Howsoeuer it be, it seemeth this name comes from Sara, Abrahams wife, notwithstanding they auow themselues to be descended from Ismael the son of Agar: but they take no pleasure she should be termed a chambermaid. Hauing reigned 3 yeares, he died, not without suspition of poyson: after which time these princes entitled themselues Caliphs, that is to say, Gouernors, Rectors, and soueraigne Princes, properly heires and successors.

After Ebubezer, Homar held the scepter ouer the Arabians,Homar Caliph the 14 yeare of the Arabians. being sometimes called Haumar, sometimes Humar, Hemer & Homer, by writers, to whom is attributed the taking of the towne of Bozra, the chiefe of Arabia, of Damas and of Ierusalem, and in the end of all Phenicia, Sy­ria, Mesopotamia, and Aegypt. And hauing vanquished Orismada or Horsmida, King of Persia, in battaile, he seized vpon that great and mightie kingdome, to whose succour then came the Turks from the Caspian ports and straits, but in vaine: so as the name of the Persians was then [Page 163] extinguished, and they were all called Sarasins. He was suspected to be a Christian; for his fa­ther Catah was a friend and benefactor to the Christians, whom he drew to Ierusalem, and for that cause built the temple which remaines vnto this day, with other shewes of superstition. Homer being in this esteeme with his people, he was slaine by a seruant of his, a Persian, called Amigira, making his prayers vnto God. This prince was hardie and warlike, and did effect great matters: he raigned ten yeares. He died in the yeare of Christ 641, and the 24 of the Arabians raigne.

Ozmen, or Hotman, Asman and Autumar, Ozmen the 4 Caliph the 24 yeare of the A­rabians. for this diuersitie of names are found in authors, sonne in law to Mahumet (for they hold, that he was maried to two of his daughters, wherof it may be Zeineb was one) was the fourth Caliph of the Arabians. There was already growne great contention among this nation, touching matters of religion, it being vaine and without ground, by reason of many absurdities, which did contradict one another: which was no mar­uell; for Mahumet being ignorant of all learning,Mahumet igno­rant of all lear­ning. could not set downe his conceptions with any good method or order; but as they came into his braine he wrot them downe, and neuer perused them after: so as oftentimes forgetting what he had before set downe, preached, or otherwise published, he ordained diuers things which were repugnant and absurd. Where­unto the people which then followed him, being all giuen to armes, poore, needie, grosse and ignorant, tooke no good regard, their spirit being attentiue to the exterior countenance; and if there were any more subtile, force and danger stopt their mouthes. But after some yeares, they had more libertie and leasure to thinke thereof, and to examine Mahumets do­ctrine which was taught, so as they grew into many disputes. To remedie the which, Ozmen caused the papers of the Prophet to be sought out, whereof they found a great cofer full in the house of Aissa his widow,Alcoran of the Arabians. with the helpe whereof he caused their Alcoran, or Alfurcan, to be compiled, shewing himselfe verie liberall to them that laboured therein. Yet some thinke, that this worke was begun by his predecessour Homar, and that he did reduce it into a better method, and into chapters.

Hucba one of his lieutenants inuaded Africke, and ruined Carthage, so as Tunis came then to be well peopled,Cairoan built. and soone after Cairoan, an hundred miles vp in the countrey, and some­what farre from the sea, was built, which since was a royall seat of the Arabians. Muhauias al­so who gouerned Aegypt, went with an infinit number of vessels into Cypres, which island he spoyled.Caire built by Muhauias. This Muhauias was the founder of Caire, neere vnto the ruines of the auntient Memphis, the which from a little burrough came to the greatnesse and state wee haue seene it in our fathers time, and by his wisedome and conduct the estate of the Arabians was much augmented. He assailed the Romanes armie vpon the confines of Lycia, and put it to rout, so as the emperour Constant then raigning, was forced to flie in a disguised habit. Muhauias being puft vp with this victorie,Rhodes taken by Muhauias. he besieged and tooke Rhodes, beat downe that great Col­losse of the Sunne, being 70 cubits high, or 80, as some write, and sold the mettall to a mer­chant Iew, who laded 900 cammels therewith, and carried moreouer out of that island, infinit other goodly and rich workes, for it was replenished with such things, as Plinie writes, who witnesseth, that there hath beene numbred in it 73000 figures, or statues, and an hundred Colosses.

After these exploits he sent his armie at sea to the island of Sicile, from whence they were repulsed by Olympius, Exarch or Gouernour of Italie. He himselfe returned into Syria, and there raised a great armie by land, to inuade Capadocia, whither he marched. By these high exploits Muhauias was in great reputation among the Arabians, which made him aspire to the soueraigne dignitie, whereunto the death of the Caliph Ozmen seemed to inuite him, wherefore he brought backe his armie.

Ozmen dyed in the twelfth yeare of his raigne,The miserable death of Ozmen the 653 of our Sauiour, and the 36 of the Arabians, being set vpon in his palace by the Sarasins, which were of the faction of Ali his brother in law, they forced him to kill himselfe, for that hee would not fall aliue into their hands. Some write, that Ali himselfe slew him, by the persuasion of Aissa Mahumets widow.

There was great dissention then among the Arabians, vpon the election of a new Caliph: the competitors were Ali, Muhauias, and Mahumet: Ali obtained it by armes against Mahu­met, but he was to trie it with Muhauias, who finding himselfe followed by a great armie of [Page 164] old souldiors, Aegyptians and Syrians, and himselfe being also and expert captaine, hee gaue him many crosses for the space of a 11 moneths, so as by a common consent their quarell was put to the arbitrement of Alascates and Alasci, two old men of great reputation among them; who notwithstanding could neuer agree, so as they returned againe to armes, till that Ali was slaine by the practises of Muhauias, neere vnto the towne of Cufa in Arabia, and there buried: wherefore the place is called vnto this day Massad Ali, that is to say, the house of Ali. The inhabitants of Cufa and Aratha, did chuse for Caliph in his place Alhacem, eldest sonne to him and to Fatima, eldest daughter to Mahumet, who in his carriage and behauiour repre­sented his grandfather by his mothers side. Being established, hee marched with an armie a­gainst Muhauias, but being one neere vnto another, when as euerie man attended a bloudie battell, suddenly Albacem, either moued by feare, or pietie, and his natural mildnesse, came and cast himselfe at Muhauias feet, acknowledging him his superiour: so as they entred into Cu­fa, the which they did ransome for a great summe of money; and being come from thence to Ietrib, Muhauias set the royall diademe with his own hands vpon Alhacems head, and would haue him raigne, which he assured himselfe would not be long, for hee dyed within six mo­neths after. Thus Muhauias being freed from all competitors,Muhauias Ca­liph of the Arabians. raigned alone: he was (accor­ding vnto some) sonne in law to Mahumet, hauing maried his daughter Zeineb, as it is likely, in her second mariage, from which mariage the royall familie of Aben Humeia is descended. It is hee which changed the Caliphes seat to Damas.Damas the seat of the Caliphes. He first inuaded the Romane empire with happie successe, Constant sitting in the imperiall seat, from whom he did exact a tribute. He ouerrun Africke, from whence there were brought by the Sarasins aboue fourescore thousand persons, slaues: And in the time of Constantine, surnamed Pogonat, or the Bearded, hee tooke Cizicus a sea towne, from whence afterwards with a great fleet of ships he infe­sted the prouinces of the empire, yea and Constantinople it selfe, but vnfortunatly for the Arabians: for after great losses both by sea and land, Muhauias remained tributarie to the Romanes,Arabians tribu­taries to the Ro­mane [...]. to whom hee promised to pay yearely three thousand pounds of gold, foure­score slaues, and as many horses, and withall to deliuer 50 Christian prisoners at the emperors choyce. By this meanes there was a peace, or truce concluded for thirtie yeares, betwixt the Romanes and Arabians; during the which Muhauias began to trouble the Potentates of his owne sect, reformed and subdued the Persians, and gaue them Matur for their Go­uernour.

Mahumets sect was spread farre into the East, but with great inconstancie, and mingled with heresies:A Councell of Mahumetists at Damas. by reason whereof hee called a Councell at Damas, of the Alfaquins of Ma­humets law; whither he commaunded to bring all the writings that could bee recouered as well of their Prophet Mahumet, as of the Caliphes his successours, and other interpretors: but there was nothing but contention and confusion, without any resolution: Wherefore there were fiue of the most learned men chosen, that is, Boar, Buora, Anoeci, Aterminde, and Dauid, who were enjoyned to gather out of all the volumes (the which as they write would haue laden two hundred cammels) what they thought came neerest to their Prophets will, which they held the trueth. These being shut into a house, after they had turned ouer, and conferred these writings, they made six bookes of Mahumets doctrine, the which were pre­sented by them, vnto the king or Caliph Muhauias, who published them, and by his autho­ritie caused them to be receiued, vpon paine of death to any one that should dispute the con­trarie. The rest of the papers were torne in peeces, and cast into the riuer. From these six volumes there haue since growne foure sects among them,Foure sect in Mahume [...] reli­gion. the Melicians, Asafians, Alambe­lians, and Buanifians, the which maintaine themselues at this day in the great citie of Caire. After these things Muhauias dyed at Damas, an excellent prince, and verie warlike of an actiue spirit, nature recompensing that which he wanted by art: for he could neither read nor write,Muhauias vn­learned. to the great griefe of them of his sect, whom they held verie fit to ha [...]e aduan­ced it, if he had been learned. He died in the threescore and seuenteenth yeare of his age, 678 of our redemption, and sixtie one of the raigne of the Arabians, hauing raigned 24 or 25 yeares.

Hizit his sonne, or Gizit, or Iezid, was chosen Caliph after him, degenerating wholly from his father:Hizit 6 Caliph For as he was actiue, resolute, and valiant, so this was base, voluptuous, and a coward: Whereupon Mutar (whom his father had placed Gouernour of Persia) made [Page 165] himselfe king and Caliph, faining to be a Prophet; and of his race the Sophies which raigne there at this day are descended. The people of Cufa in Arabia, seeing the vnworthinesse of Hizit, chose Hocem the sonne of Ali Caliph against him; but he was slaine by Abdalla the son of Hizit, leauing twelue sonnes, which were, Zemal Abadin, Zemal Muamed, Baguer Muamed, Taguin Muamed, Giafar Cadeneg, Giafar Musa, Ali Mucerati, Alle Muamet, Taguin Muamet, Hal­maguin Alle, Hacem Asquerin, Hacem Muamed Mahadin, the which are buried in diuers places. The Persians beleeue, that Hacem Muamed Mahadin alone of all the brethren, is not yet dead, and that he will come one day mounted vpon a braue horse, to conuert all the world, and to preach the law to all men, beginning with the towne of Massad-Ali, where his grandfather was interred, where at this day they keepe a horse readie for him, the which they lead vnto their Mosquee, when they doe their seruice, with torches and and lights in great pompe.

Hocem being slaine,Ciuile warres in Arabia. and Hizit dead the third yeare of his raigne, Abdalla there raigned: but for that he was a tyrant, they aduanced Maruan to the dignitie of Caliph, betwixt which two the warre continued two yeares: at the end whereof the Arabians held an assembly, in manner of parliament,Abdalla deposed and Abdimelec chosen the ninth Cali [...]h. at Cufa, a towne in Arabia the happie, where Abdalla being depo­sed, Abdimelec was chosen in his place, who was verie young, of the race of Aly, and therefore much honoured by the Arabians: For, Ali (as we haue said) was appointed heire and succes­sour of the kingdome, by the Prophet Mahumet, whereas Abdalla descended from Ebubezer, who had beene an vsurper. There was another nobleman of Arabia, called Dadac, which did bandie himselfe against Abdimelec, and was vanquished by him: but Abdalla did still hold the citie of Damas, and pursued another Caliph which was risen in Mesopotamia, which country is now called Diarbec. Against him Abdimelec sent a great captaine, a kinsman of his, called Ciafas: who hauing encountred Abdalla vpon the riuer Euphrates, returning victoriously from Mesopotamia to Damas, fought with him, and defeated him, but with great effusion of bloud. Abdalla being vanquished, thinking to saue himselfe in Damas, hee was kept out by the inha­bitants, for his tyrannies: wherefore he fled to Caire, which at that time was not verie great, where they also refused him the entrie. Being therefore chased, and abandoned by all men, thinking to crosse ouer into Greece, he was slaine in a little island, whither a torment had cast him.Race of the Ca­liphes Marau­nians chased from Damas. With him ended the race of the Caliphes of Damas, called by the Arabians, Marau­nians, descending from Muauia and Ebubezer. Ciafar pursuing his victorie, entred into Da­mas, and there vsed all the cruelties he could against the Maraunians, taking the bones of the Caliph Hizit out of his graue, the which he burnt publikely, and cast the ashes into the ri­uer. Yet one of Muauias descendants, called Abedramun, escaped, flying into the furthest parts of Libia, towards the West Ocean, into Mauritania Tingitana, whither the Arabians were newly come: For all the length of Africk, from Nile vnto the Ocean (except some pla­ces vpon the sea coast, which were yet subject vnto the Romane empire) had beene ouerrun and subdued by this nation. There this prince being acknowledged by the Sarasins to be of the race of the Caliphes of Damas,Abderamun the flemme of the kings of Maroc. was well entertained and honoured by them: Where­fore taking courage, he erected an Estate, and built the towne of Maroc, which was after­wards the head of a great kingdome. He was the first which called himselfe Miralmumin, that is to say, Prince of the beleeuers. Abdimelec nor Ciafas pursued him not, being verie farre off, and for that he had limited his designes and ambition in those remote parts, not affecting to make himselfe greater: besides, the plague, famine, and many seditions, but aboue all the attempts of the Romanes, did much trouble Abdimelec, so as he was forced to renew a peace with the emperours of Constantinople, and make the Arabians againe tributarie to Iustinian the 2 then raigning, promising to pay him ten pounds of gold, a slaue, and a horse euery day: by reason of which peace so deerely bought,A grieuous tri­bute paid by the Arabians to the Romanes. he conuerted his forces against Persia, whereas one Abdalla Zubir had newly seized vpon that region, after that he had vanquished and slaine Mutar, who had vsurped it vpon the Caliph Hizit. Abdimelec sent all his forces against this Ab­dalla, and hauing chased him out of Persia, he recouered that prouince. Then he sent one of his captaines, called Cagian, to pursue Abdalla, who was retired to Mecque, where hee was besie­ged, the towne taken, and Abdalla slaine by Cagian, who then burnt the auntient idole, and the temple there.

After these things, the Caliph Abdimelec was againe ingaged in warre against the Christi­ans, by the treacherie of Iustinian, who smarted for it: for being defeated with most of the [Page 166] Grecians, he was forced to saue himselfe by flight, and was afterwards chased out of the im­periall seat by Leonce, with great troubles throughout all the Easterne empire of the Christi­ans: whereby the Caliph had not onely meanes to recouer all that the Romanes had taken from him in Asia,Romans chased out of Spaine. but also to chase their Gouernours and armies out of all Africke; so as there was nothing remaining of the Romane name: yet his lieutenants were beaten inuading Ci­licia, by the care and conduct of Heraclius, a Romane captaine, about which time Abdime­lec dyed, hauing raigned ouer the Arabians one and twentie yeares. Whilest hee was busie in these warres, the fame of the sanctitie and justice of Abedramon (who as wee haue said had built Maroc) grew so great, as he was held by those Westerne Arabians for Caliph, and more than a Caliph: and the opinion of his vertues passing into Arabia, and throughout all the East, it happened, that dying and leauing his sonne Vlit successour of his goods and good fame, all the Arabians with one generall consent chose him for their Caliph in the place of Abdimelec, who dyed in the yeare seuen hundred and seuen. So the race of the Maraunians raigned againe, which was the posteritie of Zeineb, daughter to Mahumet, ingendred (as some beleeue) on Aissa the daughter of Ebubezer.

Vlit was the mightiest of all the Arabian princes,Vlit Caliph of the Arabians, the 90 yeare of the Arabians, and the 707 of Christ. his predecessors, raigning in a maner from the Western Ocean, vnto the riuer Indus. He gaue the gouernment of Africk to Musa, with the title of Admirall, and in a manner absolute power, all which was subject to his empire, ex­cept a small portion of the countrey which the Gothes held neere vnto the strait, whereas the towne of Cepta stands, the which is now called Ceuta: all the rest had bin conquered by his predecessors, Caliphs. You must vnderstand, that the Arabians entring into Africke, they brought in Mahumets law, their language and their maners: so as the great number of Chri­stians was much decreased, but not wholly extinguished, and many goodly churches came to ruine:The Arabian tongue common in Africke. the African tongue was in a maner lost, and the Arabian was made common. Yet there is at this day a certaine people found, which haue preserued the Africane tongue, as the Bis­canes haue done the antient Spanish, as some hold. They dwel in the mountaines of the king­dome of Sus, about Cap d' Aguer, towards the Westerne Ocean, and call their language Thamazel, the which differs from the Arabian as much as the Biscane from the Castillan: and the Moors of qualitie in that countrey, learne the Arabic tongue in schools, or in courts, that they may be able to conuerse with them. It hath also appeared since, that many families haue retained the Christian religion, and the holy Scriptures, with some forme of Sacraments, but not altogether pure:Christian religi­on preserued in Africke. for Ferdinand the third, called the Holy, raigning in Castille, and since in the raigne of Iohn the first, there were found in the citie of Maroc, certaine antient families, called Farfanes, which retained still the name and profession of Christians, aboue 680 yeares after that the Sarasins had seized vpon Africk, whereof some came into Spaine, to Alcala de Henares. Moreouer, it was seene in our daies, that after that the citie of Tunis had been taken by the emperor Charles the 5, from Haradin Barberousse, there were many habitations of Chri­stians in that citie, hauing retained, and as it were inherited from father to sonne, for the space of aboue 800 yeres, the articles of our Faith, not without great admiration of the diuine pro­uidence, who liued in a suburbes without the towne, at the South gate, men much esteemed of their kings, and valiant and hardie in the warres. They had a temple seperated from the Moores,Rabatines Chri­stians in Africk. who called them Rabatines, and of them the gards of the kings person did consist. These Rabatines were afterwards transported to Naples by the emperor, that they might be instructed in the Romish religion.

3 Whilest that Vlit raigned ouer the Arabians, and that Musa gouerned Africk, the Moors passed into Spaine,The wrath of God vpon states for their [...]. as we haue said, against the kingdome of the Gothes, whereby there fol­lowed a lamentable desolation: a nation without doubt fatall to Christendome, which had shewed it selfe rebellious, and to contemne so many graces it had receiued: For in that age, ambition and tyrannie did tread all diuine and humane lawes vnder foot, and all good order was peruerted, as well in Ecclesiasticall as ciuile gouernments. The bishops did then con­tend for the Primacie,Faults in the [...]eads. being growne insolent, by the carelesnesse of princes, who had refer­red the whole charge of affaires vnto them, abandoning themselues in the meane time to pleasures and disordinat lusts, with an opinion to be absolued of all their excesse, in building of churches, conuents, and retreats for Clergie men, and endowing them with great reue­newes, diuiding with them the spoyles they tooke from the people: who for their parts be­ing [Page 167] ill instructed,Faults in the people. and corrupted with the superstitions and traditions of men, could doe no other seruice vnto God, but set vp Images and altars, seeke out the bones of dead Saints, and such other things, little seruing to true pietie; thinking the paine they tooke in these ex­ercises, a good satisfaction for all their offences. To conclude, there was then so great a con­fusion (the which is not yet amended) as God being justly offended, gaue scope to the furie of the Arabian nation,Admirable ef­fects of the for­ces of the Ara­bians. the which inuaded the Potentates of Christendome with such furie, as in lesse than an hundred yeares they ouerthrew all the power and riches of the Romane empire, of the Persians, and of other Estates. This was not a passage, as that of the Gothes, Hunnes, Lombards, and other nations of Sithia: the which passed soone away, as an ouer­flowing deluge, or if they stayed among vs, they soone conformed themselues to humani­tie, pietie, and justice: but this plague was durable, and did still increase; for the Turkes empire at this day is nothing but a remainder of the Arabians, mingled with the Hunnes, from whence the Turkes are come. There remaine few certaine families of that Turkish nation which came from the Caspian straits, in the time of Orismada the last king of Persia, who was defeated by Haumar, Caliph or king of the Sarasins, and the which did afterwards vanquish them: and yet they grew so familiar with them, as after that time the Turkes and Sarasins were reputed but one nation.

We haue thought it expedient, for the more light of our historie, to make this digression and to seeke out the beginning of this indomptible power of the Arabians, and to relate the succession of that Estate, vntill their entrie into Spaine vnder the conduct of Tarif, or Ta­rir Aben Zarca, who defeated king Roderic, as we haue shewed in the former booke, where this king dyed, and in a manner all the flower of the nobilitie of the countrey, in the yeare of our saluation seuen hundred and foureteene, in Iuly, or according vnto some, in Sep­tember.

Returning then to our historie,Arabians and Moores one na­tion in this hi­storie. we say, That the Arabians, or Moores (as wee will tearme them indifferently hereafter) hauing obtained this great victorie, in a realme without forts, it was then easie for them to rauage and spoile the whole country at their pleasure, seeing there was no force to withstand them. They diuided their armie into many troups, & at one instant assailed all the places which they thought to be of any strength. One of their armies went a­gainst Malaga, and tooke it: another marched to Cordoua, vnder the conduct of a Christian Renigado,Exployts of the Arabians in Spaine. called Mageitard. Tarif with another troup tooke Iaen, then called Mentisa, which defended it selfe to the last extremitie; the which he rased: then he tooke Toledo and Guada­laiara. And passing on, hauing for his guide Mugnuza, or Numatius, a Goth, hee came vnto the Asturies, where he seized vpon Gigion and Astorga. Returning towards Catalogne, vnder the conduct of Mugnoc, earle of Cerdagne, he made himselfe master of that countrey, and left the earle there for Gouernour. Another armie conquered the countries of Murcia and Granado, but not without resistance: for neere vnto Horiuela there was a cruell battell, the place car­ries the name vnto this day of the bloudy field, yet the Sarasins were victors. Valencia yeelded after that the inhabitants had beene beaten in field, yet vpon condition, to leaue a temple to the Christians, which is now that of S. Bartholemew, and was then a colledge of S. Basil. A­mong other riches,A table of E­meraud. mention is made of a table of Emeraud, which they carried away, the which was in a place since called Medina Talmeid, it is Siguenza, or Medina Zelin. It was ra­ther a certaine kind of Indian Iaspe, very like vnto an Emeraud, and very common in the East, whereof they hold, that Catin to be, which is so famous at Genua. The greedinesse of spoyle was the reason they wanted not any souldiors, for all Africk posted thither. The taking of To­ledo was vpon a Palme Sunday, in the yeare 715, by the treacherie of the Iewes, whilest the Christians were at a Sermon at S. Leocades church in the suburbes.

Musa Gouernor of Africk, iealous of the fortunat successe of Tarif, came himselfe in person into Spaine, and would haue the best part of the spoile. Afterwards they made war joyntly to­gether, notwithstanding that they were deadly enemies, and took Sarragosse & other towns. The reliques of Saints which they had so much reuerenced, and worshipped in stead of God, could neither defend the Spaniards, nor saue themselues: for it is to be presumed, that these Barbarians did not bear them any great respect, after they had seized vpon the ornaments and chests of gold or siluer, where they had bin kept: yet if you wil beleeue the monks and other their fauourers, they lost not many, the greatest part hauing bin preserued by the care of the [Page 168] Clergie, and other deuout men, who transported some into Fraunce, others into Germanie, England, and other places, where in the time of our predecessors they were yet worshipped. Some authors write,The Moors were [...] yeares in cō ­ [...]c [...]ing Spaine. That the Moores were eight moneths about the conquest of Spaine, o­thers foureteene, many two yeares; but the most probable, fiue yeares: for it is not credible, that so great a country, where there were so many Christians, and so many places of strength, at the least by nature, should fall in so short a time into the Infidels power, without any oppo­sition: for they maintaine, That in diuers incounters, assaults, and sieges of townes and castles, there died aboue seuen hundred thousand Christians. Tarracone among others defended it selfe vertuously, who shewed by their valour, that it was a true auntient Colonie of the Ro­manes. In the end God hauing decreed to punish this people for their sinnes, and to admonish the other profaners of his glorie, it was forced to yeeld.

All the regions,The least care of conquerors is religion. cities, townes, and castles of Spaine, except some places in the mountaines of Asturia, Biscaie, and Nauarre, were made subject and tributaries to the Moores; who had no great care at that time to force men in their religion, but did allow them the exercise ther­of: and to some townes they granted many priuiledges, for that they would not vnpeople the countrey, burthening them with great tributes, which was all they sought.

The citie of Toledo among others had seuen churches granted them for the exercise of their religion,Seuen churches left to the Chri­stians at Toledo which were, S. Iuste, S. Luke, S. Torquat, S. Marke, S. Eulalie, S. Sebastian, and S. Marie. Moreouer, it was granted, that they should haue judges of their owne religion and nation, and be gouerned by the lawes of the kings of Gothes, with other priuiledges. By this meanes the Moores retained an infinit number of Christian families, which liued and mul­tiplied vnder them, else Spaine had beene left desart, for the Arabians could not people it. The Christians which liued among the Arabians, were called Musarabes (as it is likely) of the name of the Gouernour Musa, who would bee famous by this conquest. These Musarabes Christians did celebrate their diuine seruice, as it had beene vsed in the time of the kings of Gothes, and according to the institution of Isidorus bishop of Seuille, or of Leandre, as they had accustomed to serue God in those times throughout all Spaine, and continued vntill the seruice, called Gregorian, or Romane, was brought in, as we shall shew hereafter. This Mu­sarabic seruice, is entertained at this day for a marke of antiquitie, in the chappell of the com­panie of Christs bodie, in the great church of Toledo, and in other places of that citie. They hold it for certaine,The Moores ar­mies followed by many Christians for spoyle. that all the Moores and other Africanes which past into Spaine, were not of Mahumets sect, but a good number of them were Christians: For it is not credible, that the Africanes, who were made subject vnto the Arabians, a little before their passage into Spain, borne and bred in the Christian religion, and vnder Christian princes, should so soone haue changed their religion: But it is probable, that being newly subjected to the Mahumetane kings, many followed their armies wheresoeuer they went, without any scruple of religion, although they were Christians, hauing no other end but spoile, as most souldiours doe com­monly.

The kings and Caliphes of the Arabians, did not care to force people newly conquered, to change their religion, but suffered them to liue with libertie, least they should vnpeople the countrey, and diminish the fruits of their victories. And that Africke had preserued fami­lies of Christians, it is verified by experience, as we haue formerly shewed. The like was in Spaine, the which notwithstanding the gouernment of the Moores, did still retaine a great number of Christians, as well borne in the countrey, as others that came out of Africke to dwell there, holding the Moores partie, the which made the enterprises of the kings of Leon and Castille, and of other Christian princes, more easie to be executed, when following the steps of Pelagius (who first tooke arms against the Moors) they began to recouer the country.