The lives & deaths of most of those eminent persons who by their virtue and valour obtained the sirnames of Magni,or the Great whereof divers of them give much light to the understanding of the prophecies in Esay, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, concerning the three first monarchies : and to other Scriptures concerning the captivity, and restauration of the Jews / by Samuel Clark ...

The lives & deaths of most of those eminent persons who by their virtue and valour obtained the sirnames of Magni,or the Great whereof divers of them give much light to the understanding of the prophecies in Esay, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, concerning the three first monarchies : and to other Scriptures concerning the captivity, and restauration of the Jews / by Samuel Clark ...

Table of contents

§

Title page

THE LIFE and DEATH OF NEBUCHADNEZZAR THE GREAT, First Emperour of the CHALDEANS.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF CYRUS THE GREAT, The First Founder of the PERSIAN EMPIRE.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF ARTAXERXES MNEMON, One of the Great MONARCHS OF PERSIA.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF ALEXANDER the GREAT▪ KING, OF MACEDONIA.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF EPAMINONDAS, THE GREAT CAPTAIN OF THE THEBANS.

THE WICKED LIFE AND WOFUL DEATH OF HEROD the GREAT, In whose time Our LORD CHRIST was Born.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF HANNIBAL THE GREAT,

THE LIFE and DEATH OF POMPEY THE GREAT.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF JULIUS CAESAR The First FOUNDER OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF OCTAVIANUS AUGUSTUS In whose Raign our LORD CHRIST WAS BORN.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF TAMERLANE THE GREAT, WHO FLORISHED ANNO CHRISTI 1400.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF CHARLES the GREAT, King of FRANCE, And Emperour of GERMANY.

ERRATA in the Lives of the Magni.

§

§

[Page]

[Page]

Nebuchadnezzar.

Cyrus.

Artaxerxes.

Alexander.

Epaminondas.

Herod.

Hanibal.

Pompey.

Iulius Caesar.

Augustus

Charlemain.

Tamberlain.

§

§

[Page]

THE LIVES & DEATHS Of most of those EMINENT PERSONS WHO By their VIRTUE and VALOUR Obtained the Sirnames of MAGNI, OR THE GREAT.

Whereof divers of them give much Light to the Understanding of the Prophecies in Esay, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, concerning the three first Monarchies.

And to other Scriptures concerning the Captivity, and Restauration of the Jews.

The Second Edition, Corrected and Enlarged.

By Samuel Clark, Minister of the Gospel.

Longum iter per pracepta, breve per Exempl.

Hierom.

LONDON, Printed by J. R. for W. B. and are to be sold by Tho. Sawbridge, at the three Flower de Luces in Little Britain, and by W. Birch, at the Peacock at the lower end of Cheap-side. 1675.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF NEBUCHADNEZZAR THE GREAT, First Emperour of the CHALDEANS.

[Page]

[Page]

NEbuchadonazar, His Parentage. or Nebuchadnezzar, was the Son of Nebuchadonazar, or Nabopolaser of Babylon, who was made General of the Army by Saraco King of Assyria and Chaldea, after whose death Nabopolaser took into his hands the Kingdom of Chaldea, which he held by the space of one and twenty years; At the same time Astyages was made Governour of Media by Cyaxares his Father; and the better to strengthen themselves, they entred into affinity, by Astyages his giving his Daughter Amytis to Nebuchadnezzar, the Son of Nabopolaser, and thereupon joyning their Forces together,Ninive taken. they took Ninive, together with Seraco, the King thereof, placing a Vice-Roy in his stead.

Shortly after, the Governour of Coelosyria, and Poenicia, revolting from Nabopolaser, he sent against him his Son Nebuchadnezzar (having first associated him with himself in the Kingdom of Babylon) with a great Army,Nebuchadnezzar made King. which was in the latter end of the third, and the beginning of the fourth year of Jehoiakim King of Juda; as appears Dan. 1. 1. compated with Jer. 25. 1.

Nebuchadnezzar was no sooner thus associated with his Father in the Kingdom, but the things which he was to act,Prophecies of him. were presently revealed to the Prophet Jeremy; the first whereof was the overthrow of the Egyptians; First, at the River Euphrates; then in their own Country, Jer. 46. The first of these came to pass presently, Pharaoh Necho's Forces, which he had left at Carchemish, being cut off by Nebuchadnezzar in the fourth year of Jehojakim, Jer. 46. 2. The second was not till after the taking of Tyre, in the seventeenth year of the Captivity of Jechonia. Ezek. 29. 17, 18, 19.

[Page] In the third year of Jehoiakim, His first action. He conquers Jehoiakim. Nebuchadnezzar the second, his Father being yet alive, entred Iudaea with a great Army, who, besieging, and forcing Ierusalem, made Iehoiakim his Vassal, in despight of Pharaoh Necho, who had made him King, and took with him to Babylon, for Pledges, Daniel, who was yet a Child, with Ananias, Misael, and Azarias. He took also part of the Treasures belonging to the Temple; but stayed not to stayed not to search throughly for all. For Necho hasted with his Army to the relief of Iehoiakim, hoping to find Nebuchadnezzar in Iudea. But this great Babylonian had no mind to hazard himself and his Army against the Egyptian, Iudaea being so ill affected towards him, and himself far from all succour, or sure place of retreat. If he had (as may be supposed) any great strength of Scythian Horsemen, it was wisely done of him to fall back out of that rough, Mountanous, and hot Country, into places that were more even and temperate.His Fathers death. And besides these reasons, the Death of his Father happening at the same time, gave him just occasion to return home, and take possession of his own Kingdom, before he proceeded in the second care, of adding more unto it.

And this he did at reasonable good leisure. For the Egyptian was not provided to follow him so far, and to bid him Battel, until the new year came in, which was the fourth of Iehoiakim, the first of Nebuchadnezzar and the last of Necho. In this year the Babylonian, lying upon the Banks of Euphrates (his own Territories bounding it on the North-side) attended the coming of Necho: there,He conquers Pharaoh Necho. after a cruel Battel fought betwixt them, Necho was slain, and his Army forced to save it self by a violent retreat, wherein it suffered great loss.

This Victory was so well pursued by Nebuchadnezzar, He conquers Syria. that he recovered all Syria, and whatsoever the Egyptians held out of their proper Territories towards the North. The Egyptians being thus beaten, and altogether for the present discouraged, Iehoiakim held himself quiet, as being in heart a Friend to the Egyptians, yet having made his peace with the Chaldeans the year before, and Mebuchadnezzar was contented with such profit as he could there readily make: he had forborn to lay any Tribute upon the Iews.

But this cool reservedness of Iehoiakim, was, on both sides, taken in ill part. Whereupon the Egyptian King Psamnis, who succeeded Necho, began to think of restoring Iehoahaz (who had been taken prisoner by his Father, and carried into Egypt) and of setting him up, as a Domestical enemy against his ungrateful Brother. But to anticipate all such accidents, the Iudaean had put in practice the usual remedy, which his fore-fathers used: For he had made his own Son Iechonia King with him long before;2 chron. 36 9. in the second year of his own Reign, when the Boy was but eight years old. As for this rumour of Iehoahaz his return, the Prophet Ieremy foretold, that it should prove a vain attempt, saying, He shall not return thither, But he shall die in the place whither they have led him Captive, and shall see this Land no more. Jer. 22. 11, 12.

The Egyptians, The weak estate of the Egyptians. having lost their Mercenary Forces, and received that heavy blow at Carchemish, had more Gold than sharp Steel remaining, which is of small force without the others help. Besides, the Valour of Necho was not in Psamnis Apries, who, reigning after Psamnis, did indeed once adventure to shew his face in Syria; but after a big look, he was glad to retire, without adventuring the hazard of a Battel. Wherefore this declining Nation, fought only with brave words, telling such frivolous tales, as men that mean to do nothing, use, boasting of their former glorious acts against Iosias and Iehoahaz. And truly in such a time and case, it was easie for Iehoiakim to give them satisfaction, by letting them understand the sincerity of his affections towards them, which appeared in time following.

But Nebuchadnezzar went more roundly to work:Nebuchadnezzar layes a Tribute upon Jehoiakim. For he sent a peremptory message to Iehoiakim, requiring him not to stand upon any nice points, but presently to acknowledge himself his subject, and to pay him Tribute; Adding [Page] thereunto such terrible threatnings, as made the poor Iudaean lay aside all thoughts of adhering unto Pharaoh; and to yield to do, as the more powerful would have him.

Thus he continued in Obedience to Nebuchadnezzar three years: During which time the Prophet Jeremy, cryed out against the Impiety of the Jews, putting them in mind that he had now for three and twenty years exhorted them to Repentance: But because they had stopped their ears against him, and the rest of the Prophets,The Captivity foretold. he now foretold that their Captivity was at hand, and that they should bear the Yoak of Bondage for seventy years.Jer. 25. 15, &c. Jer. 27. The same Calamity he threatned to all the Neighbouring Nations, to the Egyptians, Moabites, Ammonites, Idumaeans, and the rest; foretelling that they should all drink out of the Babylonian Cup the Wine of his fury, whom they had forsaken; and that after the seventy years should be expired, the Babylonians themselves should taste of the same Cup, and be utterly subverted by the Medes and Persians, Jer. 25. 12, &c. And their return. Jeremy imprisoned. by which means the Jews should be permitted to return into their own Country, and Cities. The first Imprisonment of the Prophet Jeremy seems to have been in the fourth year of this Jehoiakim, at which time, Baruch the Scribe, wrote all his Prophecies from his Mouth, whom he sent to Read them unto the people, and afterwards to the Princes, who presented them to the King: But fearing the Kings fury, they had first set Jeremy at liberty, and advised him, and Baruch, to hide themselves, Jeremy 36. 19, &c.

Jehoiakim having heard part of it read to him,Jehoiakim burns the Roul. and perceiving the ill News contained therein, he made no more ado, but cut the Book in pieces, and cast it into the fire. All which, Jeremy caused to be new written, with this Addition, That the dead Body of Jehoiakim, should be cast out, being exposed in the day to the heat, and in the night to the frost, and that there should be none of his Seed to sit upon the Throne of David.

Time thus running on,Tyre rebellet [...] against Nebuchadnezzar. Jehoiakim thought himself secure from all danger, as being Tributary to the Babylonian, and yet withal, well thought on by the Egyptian: About which time the mighty City of Tyre, opposed it self against Nebuchadnezzar: And upon just confidence of her own strength, despised all preparations that could be made against her. Now for as much as the term of seventy years was prescribed for the Desolation, as well of Tyre, as of Jerusalem, and other places, and Countries, 'its apparent that they that refer the winning of this City to the ninteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar, have good ground and warrant for it. For the Siege thereof began in the seventh year of his Reign, and lasted thirteen years.

Here it will not be amiss to insert a brief Note concerning the beginning of this great Princes Rule; The third year of Jehoiakim, was the last of Nabulasser, who being freed from other cares, and businesses, took notice of such as had revolted from him to Pharaoh Necho, and sent this Noble Prince, his Son, with an Army into Syria to reclaim them. In this Expedition was [...] carried to Babylon, who therefore makes mention of it, Dan. 1. 1. The year next following, being the fourth of Jehoiakim, was the first year of Nebuchadnezzar, which Jeremy affirmeth in express words, Jer. 25. 1. And from this we must reckon all his time, and actions which follow to be spoken of. In his three and twentieth year he conquered Egypt, and then began his great Empire, there being none left that durst offend, or oppose him. The second from this year it was wherein Daniel saw that Vision of the Image consisting of sundry Mettals, which prefigured the succession of great Kingdoms, that should Rule the World before the coming of Christ. But to return to the Siege of Tyre, which began in the seventh year of his Reign.

The stately City of Tyre covered all the ground of an Island,Tyre besieged. that was divided from the Continent by a deep, and broad Channel of the Sea, The [Page] Chaldaeans had no Fleet of Ships, neither were they Seamen: The Tyrians excelled all other Nations in multitude of goodly Ships, and skill to use them: And every Wind, from one part or other, brought in all needful provisions to the City: Wherefore neither force, nor Famine could greatly hurt the place: whereof nevertheless, the Judgments of God (denounced against it by Isay, Isay 23. Jeremy, and Ezekiel) had threatned the destruction;Jer. 25. and the obstinate resolution of Nebuchadnezzar had fully determined to accomplish it.Ezek. 26.

This hauty King, impatient of resistance, undertook a vast piece of Work,The difficulty of the work. which was, to fill up that part of the Sea which divided the Island from the continent. The City of old Tyre, that stood opposite to the New, upon the firm Land, and the Mountain of Libanus near adjoyning, that was loaden with stately Cedars, and abundance of other Trees, furnished him with materials to effect it. Thirteen years were spent in this difficult, and hopeless undertaking, which need not seem strange, if we consider, that Alexander, working upon that Foundation which was remaining of Nebuchadnezzars Peer, and being withal, assisted with a strong Fleet, was yet seven months e're he could make way into the City. Wherefore, if the raging of the Sea was able to carry away that wherewith Alexander laboured to cover a Shelve, with much more violence could it overturn, and as it were, consume the work of Nebuchadnezzar; who laid his Foundation in the bottom of the deep; Striving, as it were, to fill the empty Belly of this greedy Cormorant, whereas the Macedonian did only stop the throat of it. All may know that God could easily have accomplished his own threatnings against this place (though it had not pleased him to use, either a Miracle, or such of his more immediate Engins, as are Earthquakes, &c.) by making at least, the Seas calm, and adding the favourable concurrence of all second helps. But so it pleaseth him ofttimes, in chastising the Pride of man, to use the hand of man, even the hand of man, striving, as it may seem, against all resistance of nature, and providence. So that by this excessive labour of the Chaldeans, that Scripture was fulfilled, that every Head should be made bald, and every Shoulder should be made bare, Ezek. 29. 18. Yet would not Nebuchadnezzar give over till he was Master of the Town.

When he was entred upon his desperate undertaking, whether it were by some losses received, or some Mutiny in his Army, or some glorious rumour of the Egyptians strenth, his evil willers took courage to rebel against him; and amongst them, Jehoiakim, renounced his subjection, and began to hope for the contrary, which soon after fell out. For Nebuchadnezzar gave him no leasure to do much hurt: But with part of his Army,Jehoiakim rebels, and is taken, and slain. Jer. 22. 18, 19. & 36. 30. he marched strait into Judaea; where the amazed King made so little resistance (the Egyptians having left him, as it were in a dream) that Nebuchadnezzar entred Jerusalem, laid hands on Jehoiakim, whom at first he bound, intending to send him to Babylon, but his mind changing, he caused him to be slain in that place, and gave him the Burial of an Ass, to be devoured by Beasts, and ravinous Birds, according to the former Prophesie; Leaving in his place his Son,Jeconias made King and imprisoned. Jehoiakim, or Jeconias; whom yet after three months, and ten days, he deposed, and sent him Prisoner to Babylon, together with Ezekiel, Mordecay, Jer. 29. 2. 2 Kin. 28. 16. 2 Chron. 36. 10. Jer. 24. 1. & 29. 1, 2. Ezek 17. 12. and Josedech, the High Priest.

The Mother of Jeconias, together with his Servants, Eunuchs, and all the ablest men, and best Artificers in the Land, were also then carried away Captives. This Jeconias, following the Counsel of the Prophet Jeremy, made no resistance, but submitted himself to the Kings will, wherein he both pleased God, and did that which was most profitable for himself, though at the present it might seem otherwise, to such as consider the evil that befel [Page] him, rather than the greater evil that he thereby avoided. This only particular act of his is recorded in Scripture which was good: But it seems that he was at least a partaker in his Fathers sins, if not a provoker, which was the cause, that though he submitted himself to Gods will, yet did he not preserve his estate: For so it is said, That he did evil in the sight of the Lord, according to all that his Father had done. In his stead, Nebuchadnezzar set up Mattania, his Uncle, making him King of Iudaea, Zedekia [...] is made King. Jer. 37. 1. 2 King. 24. 17. and called him Zedechias. For like as Necho King of Egypt, had formerly displaced Iehoahaz, after he had slain his Father Iosias, and set up Iehoiakim, the Son by another Mother: So Nebuchadnezzar slew Iehoiakim, who depended on the Egyptians, and, carrying his Son Ieconias Prisoner to Babylon, he gave the Kingdom to this Zedechias, who was whole Brother to that Iehoahaz, whom Necho took with him into Egypt, and from Zedechias he required an Oath for his loyalty, and faithful subjection, which Zedechias gave him, and called the living God to witness in the same, that he would remain assured to the Kings of Chaldaea, 2 Chron. 36. 13. Ezek. 17. 13, 14, 18.

In the first year of Zedechias, Ieremy saw,Jer. 24. 2. and expounded the vision of the ripe, and rotten Figs, the one signifying those that were already carried away Captives, the other signifying those Iews that yet remained, and were afterwards destroyed, Ier. 29. 17.

In the fourth year of Zedechias, Babylons destruction foretold. Ieremy wrote in a Book all the evil which should fall upon Babylon, which Book, or Roul, he gave to Seraiah, when he went with King Zedechias to Babylon, to visit Nebuchadnezzar, willing him first to read it to the Captive Iews, and then to bind a stone to it, and cast it into Euphrates, Sundry Prophesies of Jeremy. Jer. 51. 59. pronouncing these words; Thus shall Babel be drowned, and shall not rise from the evil which I will bring upon her. This journey of Zedechias to Babylon is probably thought to be in a way of a visit, and to carry some presents to Nebuchadnezzar; But yet it is likely he had some suit to make, which his Lordly Master refused to grant, and sent him away discontented. For at his return, all the bordering Princes sent Messengers to him, inciting him (as it seems) to those unquiet courses from which the Prophet Ieremy dehorted both him and them.Jer. 27. 8. About which time the Prophet, by Gods appointment, made bonds and yokes, one of which he wore about his own neck, others he sent unto the five Kings, of Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre, and Zidon, by those Messengers which came to visit Zedechias, making them know, that if they, and the King of Iuda continued in subjection to Babylon, they should then possess, and enjoy their own Countries; If not, they should assuredly perish by the Sword, by Famine and by Pestilence.

He also foretold them, that those Vessels which yet remained in Ierusalem, should be carried after the other to Babylon, yet at length should be restored again.

The same year Ananias, Ananias a false Prophet. Jer. 28. the false Prophet, took off the wooden yoke which Ieremy did wear, as a sign of the Captivity of the Iews, and brake it: Vaunting, that in like manner after two years, God would break the strength of Babel, and the yoke which he had laid on all Nations: and that he would restore Ieconias and all the Iews, with the Vessels, and Riches of the Temple, and put an end to all these troubles. But Ieremy instead of his Wooden yoke, wore a Collar of Iron; and in sign that Ananias had given a false, and deceitful hope to the People, he fore-told the Death of this false Prophet,Jer. 28. 15. which accordingly came to pass in the seventh Moneth.

After this,Zedechias rebells. Ezek. 17. 15, 17. when Zedechias had wavered long between Faith and Passion, in the eighth year of his Reign, he practiced more seriously against Nebuchadnezzar, with his Neighbours, the Edomites, Ammonites, Moabites, Tyrians, and others, who were promised great aids by the Egyptians, in confidence of whose assistance, he resolved to shake off the Babylonian Yoke; whereof, when Nebuschad[Page]chadnezzar was informed, he marched with his Army in the dead of Winter, towards Ierusalem, Jerusalem besieged. and besieged it. Jeremy perswaded Zedechias to render the City and himself to him: But Zedechias, being confident of help from Egypt, and being perswaded by his Princes and false Prophets, that it was impossible that the Kingdom of Judah should be extirpated until the coming of Shilo, according to Jacobs Prophesie,Jer. 32. & 34. Gen. 49. 10. he despised the counsel of Jeremy, and imprisoned him, For Jeremy had told the King, that the City should be taken and burnt; that the King should not escape, but be taken Prisoner, and brought to the presence of Nebuchadnezzar: That he should not perish by the Sword, but being carried to Babel, should there dye a natural Death.

The following year,Jer. 44. Ierusalem was surrounded, and more strictly besieged by Nebuchadnezzars Army;Egypt a broken staff. whereupon the King of Egypt, Pharaoh Hophra, entred into Iudaea with his Army,Jer. 37. 3, 10. to succour Zedechias, of whose revolt he had been the principal Author. But Ieremy gave the Iews faithful counsel, willing them not to have any trust in the succours of Egypt: for he assured them that they should return back again, and in no sort relieve them. And it fell out accordingly. For when the Chaldaeans removed from Ierusalem to encounter the Egyptians, these bragging Patrons abandoned their enterprise; and taking Gaza in their way homewards, returned into Egypt, as if they had already done enough, leaving the poor people in Ierusalem to their destined miseries. Ier. 34. 11, 22.

In the mean while the Iews, who in the time of their extremity, had released their Hebrew Bond-men,Lev. 25. 39, 40, &c. and Bond-women, according to the Law, in the year of Iubile, and made them free, thereby to encourage them to fight, did now upon the breaking up of the Chaldean Army, repent of what they had done, and thinking that all danger had been past, they held them by force to their former slavery. But the Chaldeans being returned to the Siege, the Prophet Ieremy, Jer. 34. Jer. 39. when the State of Ierusalem began now to grow to extremity, counselled Zedechias to render himself to the Babylonians, assuring him of his own life, and of the safety of the City if he would do so. But his obstinate heart led him on to that wretched end, which, his neglect of God, and his Infidelity and Perjury had provided for him.

Three and twenty Moneths the Chaldean Army lay before Ierusalem, Jer. 39. and held it exceeding straitly besieged; For they built Forts against it round about, 2 King. 25. 1. or, they surrounded the City with Woodden Towers, so as the Besieged could neither sally out, nor receive into the City any supplies of men or Victuals.Jer. 39. 1. & 52. 4. Iosephus saith, that they over-topped the Walls with their high Towers, which they erected upon Mounts, from which, with their Engines they did so beat upon the walls, that the Defendants were forced to forsake their stations. And though the Besieged also raised Counter-buildings, like unto these, yet the Great Nebuchadnezzar, who Commanded all the Regions thereabouts, and had the Woods and Rivers at his command, found out means to disappoint and overthrow all the Citizens endeavours, and to beat down their Towers as fast as they raised them. For his own works were guarded by the Walls of Ierusalem, whereas theirs within lay open to his Batteries. Besides, both Famine and Pestilence (which commonly accompany men straitly besieged) grew fast upon them, whereby, when the number, strength, and courage of the Iews failed,Jerusalem taken. the Chaldeans made a breach, and forcing an entry, their Princes did seat themselves as Lords of the Town, in the middle Gate, 2 King. 26. 2, 3, 4. Ier. 39. 2, 3. and 52, 5, &c.

Zedechias, Zedechias flyes and is taken. beholding this uncomfortable sight, and finding no other means to escape the present danger, lost both his Courage and his Hope at once, and shifted himself, together with his Wives, Children, Princes, and principal Servants, out of the City, by a way under-ground, leaving his amazed, and now headless Subjects, to the merciless Swords of their enraged enemies. Thus he, who when the Prophet Ieremy perswaded him to render himself, despised both [Page] the Counsel of God, and the Army and force of Nebuchadnezzar, used now the remedy which one calls, A woful, shameful, and unfortunate shift.

By this secret subterranean Vault, Zedechias stole away, and by the help of the dark night, recovered the plains, or desarts of Iericho. But by reason of the train that followed him and his, (every one leading with him those whom he loved best) he was easily traced and pursued. How great soever the company was that attended him, yet certain it is, that they, on whose fidelity he most relied, no sooner beheld the Chaldeans to draw near, but they all abandoned his defence, and shifted for themselves in the Desarts, as they could. For, whom God had forsaken, no man regarded. And thus Zedechias was taken by the Ministers of Gods vengeance, and being made a Prisoner, together with his Children, and Princes, he was carried to Riblah, in the Tribe of Nephthalim, where Nebuchadnezzar then lay, as a place indifferent between Ierusalem and Tyre, with both which places he had at one time to do.

Now when Nebuchadnezzar had laid before Zedechias the many Graces and Favours which he had conferred upon him,And carried to Babylon. together with the notable falshood and perjury wherewith he had requited him,Jer. 34. 3, &c, 2 King. 25. 4, 7. he commanded his Children, Princes,Jer. 39. 4, 7. and 52. 7, 11. and Friends, to be slain before his face. This being done, to the end that so lamentable a spectacle should be the last that ever he should behold in this world, he caused his eyes to be put out, and so carried him like a Slave to Babylon, where he consumed the rest of his life in perpetual imprisonment. Herein was that marvellous Prophesie of Ezekiel fulfilled: I will bring him to Babylon, and he shall not see it, Ezek. 12. 13.

Thus, in the eleventh, and last year of Zedechias, which was the eighteenth of Nebuchadnezzar, the Chaldeans entred into Ierusalem by force, where, sparing neither Sex nor Age, they put all to the Sword that they found therein.

In the next year following,2 King. 25. 8. Nebuzaradan, the General of the Babylonish Army, burnt the Kings Palace,Jer. 52. 13. with 39. 8. and the whole City of Ierusalem, and after the fire had lasted from the seventh to the tenth day,The Temple and City burnt. he also burnt the Temple of God to the ground, the richest and most Magnificent place that ever the Sun saw, when it had stood four hundred thirty and one years.

After this,2 King. 25. 18. upon a second search, Nebuzaradan (not yet satiated with blood) commanded seventy and two others to be slain,Jer. 39. 8, 9. and 52. 14, 23. which had hidden themselves from the first fury,2 Chron. 36. 18, &c. to wit, the chief and the second Priest, two Commanders of Zedechias his men of war,Poor people left under Gedaliah, five of his houshould Servants, and some others; carrying away to Babylon the ablest of the People through all Iudaea, Jer. 39. 10. and leaving the poorest labouring people,Jer. 40. 16. with some that followed the party of Nebuchadnezzar, to till the Ground, over whom he placed Gedaliah, the Nephew of that Saphan, whom Iosias had formerly imployed in the Reformation of Religion. This Gedaliah, a Iew by Nation, left Zedechias, as it seemeth, in the beginning of the War, and by Ieremies desire to live with him, it's probable that had embraced the same advice which the Prophet gave to Zedechias, which was, to submit himself to the Babylonian King, who being ordained of God for them, as an instrument of his Justice, was, therefore irresistable.

The Prophet Ieremy being left to his own choice,Jeremy goes to them. to live where he pleased, made choice to go to Gedaliah, Jer. 40. 6. to whom he was commended by Nebuzaradan, and he, not only entertained him kindly, but comforted him, and all the other Iews that were left under his charge, promising them favour and liberty, so long as they remained obedient Subjects to Nebuchadnezzar, by whom he was established Provincial Governour over his own Nation.

But e're the year was expired, a Prince of the late Kings Family (who, during the Siege of Ierusalem, had sheltred himself from the storm, with Baalis, King of the Ammonites) being attended by ten other chosen men, whilst Gedaliah feasted them in Mitspah, Gedaliah slain. Jer. 41. 2. the City of his residence, they trayterously slew him,2 King. 25. 25. together with divers Chaldeans and Iews that accompanied him. This [Page] done, they escaped, and in their way, encountring with eighty persons, repairing toward Gedaliah with presents, they slew most of them, and onely spared some, who promised to discover to them some Treasures that were hidden in the Fields during the War. They took with them also a Daughter of Zedechias, committed to the care of Gedaliah, by Nebuchadnezzar: This treachery of Ismael had been formerly discovered to Gedaliah by Iohanan, one of the Captains of the few remaining Iews, but he would not believe it.

Iudea being now without a Governour (for Ismael durst not take it upon him, but fled as fast as he could to the Ammonites) the residue of the Iews, fearing the revenge of the Chaldeans, resolved to fly into Egypt, and besought Ieremy to ask counsel of God for them,Jeremy's counsel rejected. who returned answer, that if they remained in Iudea, Jer. 43. God would provide for them, and shew them mercy; but if they sought to save themselves in Egypt, they should then undoubtedly perish. Notwithstanding which advice, the Iews held their determination, and despised the Oracle of God; and constraining Ieremy and Baruch to accompany them,He is carried into Egypt, and stoned. they went into Egypt, and by the permission of Pharaoh, they dwelt in Taphnes; where, when Ieremy often reproved them for their Idolatry, foretelling the destruction of themselves, and the Egyptians, he was, by these his own hard-hearted and ingrateful Country-men, stoned to death, and by the Egyptians, who greatly reverenced him, buried near the Sepulchre of their Kings, Ier. 42. and 43.

The nineteenth year of Nebuchadnezzars Reign it was, when destroying utterly the great and mighty City of Ierusalem, he exceedingly enriched himself with the spoils of it and the Temple, and by that dreadful Example terrified all those that should dare to resist him. From that time forward, he, to his three and twentieth year,Nebuchadnezzar conquers divers Nations. laboured in the Conquest of those adjoyning Countries, which God had exposed unto his Sword, and commanded to wear his Yoke, namely, the Edomites, Moabites, Ammonites, Tyrians, Sidonians, and Egyptians, though some of these were already become his followers, and served under him when Ierusalem was taken and burnt. But the Tyrians, whose City was built upon an Island, and therefore secure from the invasion of any Land-Army, and whose Fleet was so strong, that they needed not to fear any enemy at Sea, were neither daunted with the fall of their neighbour City, nor with the obstinate resolution of this mighty King, imploying all his wit and power to work their subversion.

That the City of Tyre was rather well-pleased, than any way discouraged with the destruction of Ierusalem, it appeareth by the Words which Ezekiel condemneth, as the common voice of Tyrus, Ezek. 26. 2. Aha! the Gate of the People is broken, it is turned unto me; For seeing she is desolate, I shall be replenished. Yet at length, that great work before mentioned, began to appear above Water, and so to threaten them with inevitable mischief.

Nebuchadnezzar still follows his work hard, notwithstanding all discouragements, and in the thirteenth year of the Siege, and the nineteenth of his Reign, he had brought it to such perfection, that now the Citizens despaired of holding out against him; whereupon all the chiefest of them imbarked themselves, their Families,Tyre is taken. and Treasures in their Fleet, and escaped to the Isle of Cyprus, but the poorer sort were left to the fury of the enemy; who being inraged for being put to so much pains, slew with the Sword, not only such people of Type as dwelt on the Continent (who are called her Daughters in the Field) but the like execution was done in the streets, into which, with excessive labour, the Chaldeans made way for his Horses and Chariots. Thus Nebuchadnezzar made his Army serve a great service, against Tyrus, wherein every head was made bald, and every shoulder was made bare, yet had he no wages, nor his Army, Ezek. 20. 18. but was fain to rest contented with the Honour of having destroyed that City, which in all mens Judgments had been held invincible.

[Page] The destruction of these two Great, and powerful Cities, having made the name of the Chaldeans dreadful in the ears of all the Nations round about, Nebuchadnezzar used this advantage of that reputation which he had obtained by his victories already gotten, to the getting of more, and more profitable, with less pains. The Kingdom of Egypt was the mark which he chiefly aimed at. A Country so abounding in Riches and pleasures, that it might well have tempted any Prince, finding himself strong enough to pick occasion of quarrel against it. Besides, it was so far an enemy to the Crown of Babylon, that, had it been far poorer, yet it must have been subdued, or the Conquest of Syria could not have been secured.

Yet was it needful, that before he entred upon this business, the Countries adjacent should be reduced into such tearms, that either they should wholly stand at his devotion, or at least, be able not to work him any displeasure. And herein the Decree of God concurred (as in all prosperous enterprises) with reason of State. For the people of Moab, Ammon, Edom, Damascus, Kedar, Hazor, and other adjoyning Regions, whom God for their sins had condemned to fall under the Babylonian Yoke, were such, as regarding only their own gain, had, some of them, like Ravens, followed the Chaldean Army, to feed upon the carcasses that fell by the cruelty thereof. Others taking advantage of their Neighbours miseries, occupied the Countries, which, by his Victories, belonged to Nebuchadnezzar, all of them thinking, that when the Babylonian had satisfied his fury, he would be forced to forsake those desolated Countries, and leave the possession of them to those who could first seize upon them.The Jews enemies threatned. Particularly, the Edomites, and Philistines, had shewed much malice against the Iews when their City was taken, Ezek. 25. 12, 15. Whether they had done any good service to the Chaldeans, it appears not; if they did any, its like to have been in reference to their own advantage, wherein yet they were deceived. The Ammonites were not contented to rejoyce only at the fall of Jerusalem, but presently they entred upon the Country of God, and took possession of it, as if, not the Chaldeans, but they had subdued Israel, Ezek. 25. 3. Jer. 49. 1. Neither can it be imagined what other design Baalis, King of the Ammonites had, when he sent Ismael, a Prince of the Blood of Judah, to murther Gedalia, whom the King of Babel had made Governour over those that remained in Israel, and to carry Captive into the Ammonites Country, the People that abode in Mizpah, than a desire of entangling Nebuchadnezzar with so many labours at once, as should force him to retire into his own Country, and abandon those wasted Lands, to himself, and others, for whom they lay conveniently. Such, or the like Policy, the Moabites also did exercise, whose Pride, and Wrath were made frustrate by God, and their dissimulation condemned, as not doing aright, Ver. 40. 14. & 41. 2. & 10. & 28, 27, &c,

All these Nations had the Art of ravening,They are destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar. which is familiar to such as either live in, or that border upon Desarts; and now the time ministred occasion to them to shew the uttermost cunning of their Thievish wits. But Nebuchadnezzar made void all their devices by sharp, and sudden War upon them, overwhelming them with unexpected ruin, as it were in one night,Isa. 16. 14. according to the Prophesies of Isay, Jeremy, and Ezekiel, who all foretold, with little difference of Words, the greatness and swiftness of the misery that should come upon them. It appears not with which of them he first began; but it seems that Moab was the last that felt his heavy hand: For so many interpret that Prophesie of Isay, threatning Moab with destruction after three years, as having reference to the third year following the destruction of Jerusalem: the next year after it, being spent in the Egyptian expedition. This is evident that all the principal Towns in these [Page] Countries were burnt, and the people either slain, or made captives, few excepted, who saved themselves by flight, and had not the courage to return to their habitations too hastily, much less to attempt any thing against Nebuchadnezzar: but lived as miserable out-laws, until the end of the seventy years which God had appointed for the desolation of their Countries, as well as of the Land of Judaea.

When by a long course of Victory Nebuchadnezzar had brought into Subjection all the Nations of Syria, Egypt attempted by Nebuchadnezzar. and the bordering Arabians in such wise, as that no enemy to himself, or Friend to the Egyptian, was left at his back, that might either impede his proceedings, or take advantage of any misfortune that might befall him; then did he forthwith apply himself to the Conquest of Egypt, upon which those other Nations had formerly been dependants. Of this expedition, and the Victorious issue thereof, the three great Prophets, Isay, Jeremy, and Ezekiel have written so plainly, that its altogether needless to seek after any other authority to confirm the same. Long before it was prophesied by Isay, that the King of Assyria, or Babylon, should lead away the Egyptians Prisoners, and the Ethiopians Captives, young, and old, naked and barefoot, even with their buttocks uncovered to the shame of Egypt, Isa. 20. 4.

But Ezekiel and Jeremy, as their Prophesies were neerer to the time of execution, so they handled this Argument more plainly, and precisely. For Esekiel tells us cleerly, that Egypt should be given to Nebuchadnezzar as wages for his great service which he had done against Tyre, Ezek. 29. 18, 19, 20. He recounteth also in particular all the chief Cities in Egypt, saying, that these by name should be destroyed, and go into Captivity: yea, and that Pharaoh, and all his Army should be slain by the Sword, Ezek. 30. 4, 10, &c. Chap. 32. 2, &c. And the Prophet Jeremy, saith thus, Behold I will visit the common people of Noe, and Pharaoh, and Egypt, with their Gods, and their Kings, even Pharaoh and all that trust in him; and I will deliver them into the hands of those that seek their lives, and into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar King òf Babel, and into the hands of his Servants, Jerem. 46. 25, 26. Josephus accordingly saith, that Nebuchadnezzar in three and twentieth year of his Raign,Egypt conquered. and in the fifteenth year after the destruction of Jerusalem, did Conquer Egypt, and kill the King thereof, appointing a Vice-Roy to Govern it. And it is evident that his Victories which followed his Conquest of Syria, were such as did more enlarge his Dominions, than all his former Wars had done. For Ezekiel in his Thirtieth Chapter reckoneth up (besides the whole Country of Egypt) Phut, and Lud, with other Nations that may seem to have reached as far as into Mauritania, which were conquered by him, and added to his Empire, And truly it is worth observation how Pharaoh, King of Egypt was infatuated by God, who thought himself most safe in his own Country by reason of the well-defenced situation thereof, and therefore very unwisely suffered his enemies to make a cleer way to his own doors by the Conquest of all his Friends, and Allyes in Syria. For as the labour of this business did more harden than weary the Chaldean Army, so the confidence,Carnal confidence. and vain security of the Egyptians, relying upon the difficulty of the passages which the enemy was to make through the Arabian Desarts, and the great advantage which the River Nilus afforded, did little avail them, when the War came on; Yea, it did much astonish them (as may justly be thought) in the time of execution. It being usually seen, that the hearts of men fail, when those helps deceive them, in which they had reposed more confidence than in their own Virtue, and Valour.

Until this time, the Kingdom of Egypt had flourished under the Rule and Government of the Pharaohs for above the space of one thousand, four hundred, and eighty years. But from this time forward, it remained forty years without a King under the subjection of the Babylonians; and then at lenghth [Page] it began to recover by little and little the former greatness: Yet so, that it was never dreadful unto others as it had been, God having said of that people;Egypt never recovered its strength again. At the end of forty years I will gather the Egyptians from the People whither they were scattered; and I will bring again the Captivity of Egypt, and will cause them to return into the Land of Pathros, into the land of their habitation, and they shall be yet a base Kingdom. It shall be the basest of the Kingdoms, neither shall it exalt it self any more above the Nations; For I will diminish them that they shall no more rule over the Nations, and it shall be no more the confidence of the House of Israel, Ezek. 29. 13, 14, 15, 16. For whereas it had been said of Pharaoh, I am the Son of the wise, the Son of ancient Kings, Isa. 19. 11. and whereas they had Vaunted, the River is mine, and I have made it, Ezek. 29. 9. The Princes of Egypt, now became fools, the River failed them, the King himself was now taken and slain, and that ancient Linage was quite extinguished.

Of any Wars made by Nebuchadnezzar after such time as he returned from the Conquest of Egypt, Ninive destroyed. See before▪ we read not, except that against Ninive, the destruction whereof was foretold by the Prophet. Ninive indeed had been taken long before by Merodoch, and together with the rest of Assyria, made subject to Babylon. Yet was it left under a peculiar King, who rebelling against Nebuchadnezzar, as Jehoiakim, and Zedechias, Tributary Kings of Judah, had done, was made partaker also of the same ruin. That the destruction of Ninive followed the Conquest of Egypt, is clear by the comparison which Nahum the Prophet made between this City that was to fall, and the City of Noe in Egypt which was fallen already; Nabum 3. 8, &c. Art thou better than populous Noe, that was situate amongst the Rivers, that had the waters round about it; whose Rampire was the Sea, and her wall was from the Sea, Ethiopia, and Egypt were her strength, and it was infinite: Put, and Lubin were her helpers. Yet was she carried away, she went into Captivity; Her young Children also were dashed in pieces at the top of all the streets, and they cast lots for her honourable men, and all her great men were bound in chains. Thou also shalt be drunken; thou shalt be hid; thou also shalt seek strength because of the enemy, &c.

This Great Monarch, having thus spent his younger days in inlarging his Dominions, he betook himself to rest, that he might reap the fruit of his former labours; and the first thing that he applied himself to, was to beautifie his Imperial City of Babylon, Babylon beautified. adding a new City to the Old, which he compassed about with three Walls, and made in them stately Gates. And neer the former Palace he built a New one, more stately than it, wherein he raised stone-works, like unto Mountains, which he planted with all manner of Trees.Pensile Gardens. He made also Pensile Gardeus (one of the Worlds wonders) born upon Arches, foursquare, each square being four hundred Foot long, filled above with Earth, whereon grew all sorts of Trees, and Plants. The Arches were built one above another in a convenient-heigth, still increasing as they ascended. The highest, which did bear the walls on the top, were fifty Cubits high, so that they equalized the highest Mountains. He made also Aquaeducts for the watering of this Garden, which seemed to hang in the air. This most sumptuous frame, which out-lasted all the remainder of the Assyrian, and all the Persian Empire, is said to have been reared and finished in fifteen Days.Nebuchadnezzars Golden Image. He erected also an image of Gold in the Plain of Dura, sixty Cubits high, and six broad, commanding all his Servants, and Subjects to fall down and Worship it, Dan. 3. 1, &c.

But of all this, and other his Magnificence, we find little else recorded, save that which indeed is most profitable for us to consider, to wit, his overvalewing of his own greatness, which abased him to a condition inferior to the poorest of men. For whereas God had honoured him, not only with many [Page] great, and glorious Victories, and much happiness in his own life; but with a rare discovery of things that were to come after him; yea, and had manifested the certainty of his Dreams, by the miraculous reducing of it into his Memory,Dan. 2. 31, &c. and given him the interpretation thereof by the Prophet Daniel: He notwithstanding became so forgetful of God, whose wonderful power he had seen,His Pride. and acknowledged, that he caused that Golden Image to be set up, and Worshipped, appointing a cruel Death for them that should dare to disobey him, which was utterly unlawful, and repugnant to the Law of him that is King of Kings; And thus he who so lately had Worshipped Daniel, the servant of God, as if he had been God himself: now commanded a Statue to be erected unto himself, wherein himself might be worshipped as God: From this impiety it pleased God to recall and reclaim him, by the wonderful and miraculous delivery of those three blessed Saints,A Miracle. Dan. 3. 26. &c. out of the fiery Furnace, who being thrown bound into the midst of it, for refusing to commit that abominable Idolatry, were preserved from all hurt of the fire, loosened from their Bonds, accompanied by an Angel, and at last called out by the King, and restored to their former honour.

Nebuchadnezzar being amazed at the Miracle,Dan. 3. 29. He makes a Decree to Gods Honour. made a Decree tending to the honour of God, whom by the erection of his Image, he had dishonoured. Yet was not this devotion so rooted in him, that it could bring forth fruit answerable to his hasty zeal: Therefore was he fore-warned of God in a Dream, of a terrible Judgement which hung over his Head,His Dream interpreted. which Daniel expounding, withall counselled him to break off his sin by righteousness, and his iniquities, by shewing mercy to the poor, that there might be a lengthening of his tranquility, Dan. 4. 27. Whence it seems, that injustice and cruelty were his faults, for which he was thus threatned: But neither did the Dream, nor advice of Daniel so prevail. For probably he believed it not, but looked upon it as an idle Dream; for that it seemed altogether unlikely that so great a Monarch should be driven from amongst men,He dwells with the Beasts. yea, compelled to dwell with the Beasts of the Field, and made to eat Grass as the Oxen, this was altogether incredible in mans Judgment, and therefore giving so little heed to it, its no marvel that he had forgotten it by the years end.

One whole year was given to this haughty Prince wherein to repent, which respiting of the execution, may seem to have bred in him forgetfulness of Gods sentence. For at the end of twelve months, as he was walking in his Royal Palace in Babel, he was so overjoyed, and transported with a vain contemplation of his own seeming happiness, that without all fear of Gods heavy Judgment pronounced against him, he uttered these proud words: Is not this great Babylon that I have built for the House of the Kingdom, by the might of my power, and for the Honour of my Majesty?

But his proud speeches were not fully ended, when a voice from Heaven told him, that his Kingdom was departed from him, &c. And the same hour the thing was fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar; And he was driven from men, and did eat grass as Oxen, and his Body was wet with the dew of Heaven, till his hair was grown like Eagles Feathers, and his nails like Birds Claws, Dan. 4. 33, &c.

This his punishment was singular,His Bodily shape not changed. and unexpected. For he ran amongst Beasts in the Fields and Woods, where, for seven years he lived, not only as a salvage man, but as a salvage Beast: for a Beast he thought himself to be, and therefore fed himself in the same manner, and with the same food that Beasts do. Not that he was changed in his external shape from a man to a Beast. For as St. Jerome well expounds it, when he saith, vers. 34. that his understanding was restored unto him, he shewed, that he had not lost his humane shape, but his understanding, being stricken with a Frenzy, or deep Melancholy, which made him think himself a Beast.

[Page] Seven years being expired,He is restored to his Kingdom. And gives Glory to G [...]d. Nebuchadnezzar was restored both to his Understanding, and to his Kingdom: and (saith he) I blessed the most High, and I praised, and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose Dominion is an everlasting Dominion, and his Kingdom is from Generation to Generation; And all the Inhabitants of the Earth are reputed as nothing, and he doth according to his Will in the Army of Heaven, and amongst the Inhabitants of the Earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What dost thou? At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the Glory of my Kingdom, mine honour, and brightness returned unto me, and my Counsellors, and my Lords sought unto me, and I was established in my Kingdom, and excellent Majesty was added unto me. Now therefore I Nebuchadnezzar praise, and extoll, and honour the King of Heaven, all whose works are truth, and his way is Judgement, and those that walk in Pride he is able to abase, Dan. 4. 34, 35, 36, 37.

How long he lived after this is uncertain, but all agree that he reigned about twenty months co-partner with his Father in the Kingdom, and about three and forty years by himself alone.

Whilst Nebuchadnezzar King of Babylon reged in Judaea, Gods Justice▪ God prepared a Worm, which in due time, should eat out this spreading Tree; by reason of the cry of his poor people, which entred into his ears: According to that of the Psalmist, Psal. 137. 8, 9. O Daughter of Babylon, who art to be destroyed: Happy shall he be that rewardeth thee, as thou hast served us. Happy shall he be that taketh and dasheth thy little ones against the stones. For in this very year was Cyrus, the Perso-Median born; whose Father was a Persian, and his Mother a Mede; of whom this very Nebuchadnezzar, at the hour of his Death, uttered this Prophesie. There shall come a Persian Mule, A Prophesie▪ who shall make use of your Devils, as his Fellow-Souldiers, to bring you into Bondage. He calls Cyrus a Mule, because he was to be born of a Father and Mother of two divers Nations.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF CYRUS THE GREAT, The First Founder of the PERSIAN EMPIRE.

[Page]

CYRUS was the Son of Cambyses, His Parentage. King of Persia, by Mandanes the Daughter of Astyages, King of Media; He was so named by the Prophet Isay, almost two hundred years before he was born, Isa. 45. 1, 4. Thus saith the Lord unto Cyrus his anointed, &c.

Cyrus his first Education was under his Father Cambyses, His Education. with whom he lived till he was twelve years old, and somewhat more; at which time he was sent for, together with his Mother Mandanes, by his Grandfather Astyages, into Media.

In Media he served Astyages, first, as one of his Halberdiers, and then as one of his Armour-bearers, till he was called home into Persia by his Father Cambyses, when as yet he had one year to spend at School; and when he had spent seventeen years at School amongst Boyes, he spent ten years more amongst youths.

When Cyrus was now almost sixteen years old,His first Action in War. Evilmerodach the King of Assyria, being about to marry a Wife called Nicotris, made an in-rode, with a great Army of Horse and Foot, into the borders of Media, there to take his pleasure in hunting, and harrassing of the Countrey: against whom, Astyages, and Cyaxares his Son, and Cyrus his Grand-child, who then first began to bear Arms, being but about fifteen or sixteen years old, marched out, met with him, and in a great Battel overthrew him, and drave him out of his borders. Indeed the Death of Nebuchadnezzar, the Father of Evilmerodach, gave courage to those that had found him a troublesome Neighbour, to stand upon [Page] prouder terms with the Babylonians, than in his flourishing estate they durst have used.

But Evilmerodach, being too proud to digest this loss which he had received by the Medes, and their Allies, the Persians under Cyrus, he drew unto his party the Lydians, and all the people of the lesser Asia, with great gifts and strong perswasions, hoping by their assistance to overwhelm his enemies with a strong invasion, whom in vain he had sought to weary out by a lingring War.

The issue of these great preparations made by Evilmerodach against the Medes, was such as opened the way to the fulfilling divers Prophesies which were many years before uttered against Babel, by Isay and Jeremy. For the Babylonians and their Confederates, who, trusting in their numbers, thought to have buried the Medes and Persians under their thick showers of Arrows and Darts, were encountred with an Army of stout and well trained men, weightily Armed for close fight, by whom they were beaten in a great Battel, wherein Evilmerodach was slain.Evilmerodach is slain. After which, that great Empire that was raised and upheld by Nebuchadnezzar, was grievously shaken and enfeibled under his unprosperous Son, and left to be sustained by his Grand-child Belshazzar: a man more like to have overthrown it when it was greatest and strongest, than to repair it when it was in a way of falling.

Xenophon relates the matter thus, When the Babylonian had enlarged his Empire with many Victories, and was become Lord of all Syria, and many other Countreys, he began to hope, that if the Medes could be brought under his Subjection, there would not then be left any Nation adjoyning able to make head against him.The strength of Media. For the King of the Medes was able to bring into the Field sixty thousand Foot, and ten thousand Horse, to which the Forces of Persia being joyned, made an exceeding great Army.

Considering therefore the strength of such a neighbour, he invited Croesus, King of Lydia, a Prince very mighty both in men and Treasure, and with him other Lords of Asia the less, to his assistance, alledging that those Eastern Nations were very powerfull, and so firmly conjoyned by League, and many Alliances, that it would not be easie, no nor possible, for any one Nation to resist them.

With these suggestions, backed with rich Presents, he drew to himself so many adherents, as he compounded an Army of two hundred Thousand Foot, and sixty thousand Horse: Of which ten thousand Horse, and forty thousand Foot were brought by Croesus, who had great cause of enmity against the Medes, for that they had made great Wars against his Father Allyattes. Cyrus made General of the Army. Whereupon Cyrus was by his Father Cambyses, and the Council of the Kingdom, made General of the Persian Army, and sent away into Media with thirty thousand Souldiers, and one thousand Commanders, all of equal Authority under him; and when he came thither, he was also made by his Uncle Cyaxares, who had sent for him, General of the Median Forces, and the management of the War against the Babylonian, was wholly committed to him: With this Army he marched against Evilmerodach, and his associates, and in a very bloody Battel,He overthrows the Babylonians. overthrew them. In which defeat, Evilmerodach, King of Babylon, being slain, so many of his Subjects revolted, that Babylon it self could no longer be secured, but by the help of Mercenaries, waged with great sums of money out of Asia the less, Egypt, and other Countries, which new levied Forces were also defeated,Cyrus his great victories. and scattered by Cyrus, who following his advantage, possessed himself of a great part of the lesser Asia. Those Persians which followed Cyrus, and were by him levied, are reckoned to be thirty thousand Foot, of which, one thousand were Armed Gentlemen; the rest of the common sort were Archers, and such as used the Dart, or Sling.

[Page] Croesus, Croesus his Victories. notwithstanding the men lost, and the Treasure spent in the quarrel of the Babylonians, yet did he Conquer Aeolis, Doris, and Ionia, Provinces possessed by the Greeks in Asia the less, adjoyning to his Kingdom of Lydia. He gave Laws also to the Phrygians, Bithynians, Carians, Mysians, Paphlagonians, and other Nations. He also enforced the Ephesians to acknowledge him for their Lord; He also obtained a signal Victory against the Sacaeans, a Nation of the Scythians; All which he performed in fourteen years.

And being now confident by reason of his good successes, and withall, envious at Cyrus his Fame and Prosperity; doubting also that his great Victories might in the end grow perillous to himself, he consulted with the Oracle of Apollo, whom he presented with marvellous rich gifts, what success he might hope for in his undertakings against Cyrus; from whom he received this ambiguous answer,The Devlls subtilty. Croesus, Halym penetrans, magnam pervertet opum vim: Croesus passing over the River Halys, shall dissolve a great Dominion: For the Devil being doubtful of his success, gave him this Riddle, which might be construed either way, to the ruine of Persia, or of his own Lydia.

Hereupon Croesus (interpreting it as he most desired) resolved to stop the course of Cyrus his progress,Good counsel neglected. and therefore despised all the Arguments used by Sandanes to the contrary, who desired him to consider aforehand, that he provoked a Nation inhabiting a barren and Mountanous Region; a People not covered with the soft silk of Worms, but with the hard skins of Beasts; not fed with meat to their Fancies, but content with what they found; Drinkers of Water, and not of Wine; and in a word, a Nation Warlike, Patient, Valiant, and Prosperous, over whom, if he became Victorious, he could thereby enrich himself in nothing but Fame, in which he already excelled: and if by them he should be beaten and subdued, so great would his loss appear of all things, which the world makes account of, that the same could neither be hastily recounted, nor easily conceived.

Notwithstanding this solid,Croesus marches against Cyrus and seasonable Counsel, Croesus having prepared a powerful Army, advanced with the same toward Media: but in his passage he was retarded at Pterium, a City in Cappad [...]cia of great strength; which whilst he attempted both by power and policy to take and Conquer, Cyrus came on, and found the Lydians encamped before it. Neither of these Champions were inferior to other, either in strength or opinion. For out of doubt, Croesus, as he excelled any Prince of that age in Riches and ability, so was he not inferiour unto any in Territories and Fame, that then lived. But Kingdoms and Commonwealths have their increase, and Periods from Divine Ordinance. This time was the Winter of Croesus his prosperity, the leaves of his flourishing estate being ready to fall; and that of Cyrus but in the first Spring and Flower; the God of all Power had given a date to the one, and a beginning of glory to the other.

When these two Armies were in view each of other,A great Battel. after divers skirmishes had passed between them, the Persians and Lydians began to joyn together, and encounter each other in gross Bodies; and as either of them began to retreat, fresh supplies were sent in from both their Kings. And as the Persians had somewhat the better of the day, so when the dark vail of night had hidden each Army from the others view, Croesus doubting what success the rising Sun might bring with it, quitted the Field to Cyrus, and with all speed possible,Croesus retreats. retreated towards his own Countrey, and taking the next way thither, he recovered Sardis, the first City of Lydia, and his Regal Seat, without any pursuit made by Cyrus to retard him; where, being arrived, and nothing suspecting Cyrus his approach, or any other War for that Winter, he dismissed his Army, and sent the Troops of his sundry Nations to their own Provinces, appointing them to re-assemble at the end of five Months, acquainting his Commanders with his intent of renewing the War at the time appointed.

[Page] The morning being come, Cyrus finding that the Lydians were departed, put his Army in order to pursue after them, yet not so hastily,Cyrus pursues him. and at their heels, as to be discovered. But getting good intellegence of Croesus his proceedings, he so ordered the matter, that he presented not himself before Sardis, till such time as Croesus had disposed of his Army, [...] and sent them to their Winter Quarters.And besieges him in Sardis. His coming [...] altogether unlooked for, and unfeared, he had opportunity enough to surround Sardis with his Army, wherein Croesus had no other Companies than the Citizens, and his ordinary Guards, insomuch as after fourteen days Siege,Sardis taken. Cyrus took the City by Storm, and put all to the Sword that made resistance.

Croesus now having neither Arms to Fight, nor Wings to fly, in this common calamity, he thrust himself into the heap, and multitude of his miserable Subjects, and had undergone the same lot with the rest of the vanquished persons, had not a Son of his, who had been dumb all his Life before (by the extremity of Passion and Fear) cryed out to a common Souldier,Croesus preserved. who was with a drawn Sword pursuing his Father, that he should not kill Croesus. Hereupon he was taken and imprisoned, and despoiled of all things, but only the expectation of Death.

Shortly after he was bound with Fetters, and Placed upon a large and high pile of Wood,He should have been burr, but is saved. to be burnt to ashes thereon. To which, when Fire was set, and kindled, Croesus remembring the discourse which long before he had with Solon, the Athenian Lawgiver, he thrice cryed out, O Solon, Solon, Solon, and being demanded what he meant by the invocation of Solon, he at first used silence: But being urged again, he told them that now he found that true, which wise Solon had long since told him; That many men in the race and course of their lives might well be accounted Fortunate, but no man could discern himself to be happy indeed till his end.

Of this his answer, Cyrus being speedily informed, and thereby being put in mind of the mutability of Fortune, and of his own mortality, he commanded his Ministers of Justice, speedily to withdraw the Fire, and to save Croesus, and bring him to his presence; which being done, Cyrus demanded of him, who it was that had perswaded him? or what reason had instigated him to invade his Territories, and to make him, of a Friend, an Enemy. To which Croesus thus answered: It was thy prosperous, and my unprosperous destiny (the Grecian Gods with all, flattering my Ambition) that were the inventers, and conducters of Croesus War against Cyrus.

Cyrus being much affected with this answer of Croesus, Cyrus Maks him his friend▪ and bewailing his estate, though he was victorious over him, did not only spare his life, but entertained him ever after as a King, and his companion; Thus Herodotus relates it. But Xenophon saith, that Cyrus did entertain Craesus friendly at the first sight, and makes no mention of any such cruel intent of burning him alive; and this may seem the more probable, because Crasus was his Grandmothers Brother, and its very likely that neerness of Alliance might withhold Cyrus (if he had been vicious, which he was not) from so cruel a purpose as to have burnt him alive.

When Cyrus afterwards passed with his Army over Araxes into Scythia, Cyrus invad [...] Scythia. he left Croesus to be a companion, and counseller to his Son Cambyses, whom he made Governour over his Empire in his absence, with whom he lived all the Reign of Cyrus, and did afterwards accompany Cambyses in his Expedition into Egypt, where he hardly escaped his Tyrannous hands. At this time the Races of three of the greatest Kings in that part of the World came to an end; to wit, of the Babylonians, Medians, and Lydians, in Balthasar, Xiaxares, or Darius Medus, and Croesus.

After this Lydian War ensued the great Conquest of Babylon, which gave unto Cyrus an Empire so large, and mighty, that he was justly reputed the [Page] greatest Monarch then living upon the Earth. How long time the preparations for this great action took up, is uncertain, only it seems that ten whole years did pass between his taking of those two Cities of Sardis and Babylon; which time was not wholly spent in providing for the Assyrian War, but much of it in setling the Estates which he had already purchased; Ctesias also tells us, that during this time Cyrus invaded Scythia, and being victorious over that Nation, he took Amorges their King Prisoner; But being in a second Battel overthrown by Sparetha, the Wife of Amorges, himself was taken Prisoner, and so one King was released for the other. Gobrias about this time (a Nobleman,His danger. whose only Son, the King of Babylon, in his Fathers life time, had in a hunting match, villainously slain) together with his Friends, revolted to Cyrus.

Its very probable also, that no small part of those troubles which sprang up in the lower Asia, grew soon after Cyrus his departure with his Victorious Army, before the Conquest was fully established. For after Cyrus was returned out of Asia the less, many Nations which were formerly conquered by Croesus, and now by Cyrus, revolted from him; Against whom he imployed Pactias, and then Harpagus, who first reduced the Phocians under their former Obedience; and then the rest of the Greeks that inhabited Asia the less, as the Jonians, Carians, Aeolians, and Lycians, who, very resolutely (according to the strength they had) defended themselves; But in the attempt upon Babylon it self, its not to be questioned but Cyrus imployed all his Forces, having taken order beforehand, that nothing should be able to divert him, or to raise that Siege, or to frustrate that work upon which he did set all his rest.

And great reason there was,The strength of Babylon. that he should improve all his Policy and strength unto the taking of that City, which, besides the Fame and reputation that it held, as being the Head of an Empire, which depended thereupon, was so strongly fortified with a trebble Wall of great heigth, and surrounded with the waters of Euphrates, that were unfordable, and so plentifully Victualled for many years, that the Inhabitants were not only free from fear, and doubt of their estate, but through their confidence, they derided, and despised all the Projects and power of their Besiegers.

For not long before,Babylon fortified by Nicotris. Nicotris, the Mother of Belshazzar, a witty, and active Woman, foreseeing the storm that was ready to fall upon Babylon from the Medes, to hinder their passing the River by Boats into Babylon, She turned the River Euphrates, which before ran with a strait and swift course, drawing it through many winding Channels, which she had cut for that purpose, whereby she made it to run more slowly than formerly it did: and then she raised a huge Dam upon each side of the River; and up the River from the City-ward, she digged a vast Pond, which was every way three or four hundred Furlongs wide, into which she turned the River, thereby leaving the old Channel of the River dry; which done, she fell to work, and fenced the Banke within the City with Brick-walls, and raised the Water-Gates, answerable in every point to the rest of the Walls, which were made on the farther side of the Channel, round about the City. She built also a stately, and Magnificent Bridge of Stone in the midst of the City, which joyned to the Kings Houses, that stood on each side the River: and having finished all her Works, and Fortifications, she turned the River out of the Pond into its right Channel again.

And now came Cyrus to invade the Country of Babylon, Cyrus lnvades Babylon. and appeared before the Walls of the City, and there challenged the King to a Duel, or single Combat, but he refused it. At this time Gadatas, a Noble man of Babylon, whom Belshazzar had gelt, upon a jealousie that he had of him with his Wife, fell over to Cyrus, in revenge whereof the Babylonians sallied out, and fell upon [Page] his Lands; but Cyrus set upon them, and routed them; At which time the Cadusii, whom Cyrus had appointed to bring up the rear of his Army, unknown to Cyrus, set upon a Country lying neer to the City; but the King of Babylon falling out upon them, cut them all off. Yet Cyrus quickly revenged the Death of his men; and then came to an agreement with Belshazzar, to hold truce with the Plough-men on both sides, and the War to go on between the Souldiers only. After which, passing beyond the City, he took in three of their Forts, and so returned into the confines of Assyria, and Media; and thither, upon his invitation, came his Uncle Cyaxares, and was by him honourably received, and entertained in a Pavilion, that had been the King of Assyrias: and Winter now approaching, they entred into consultation to provide things necessary to maintain the Siege.

The only hope of Cyrus with his Medes, Cyrus besieges it. and Persians (who despaired of carrying by assault a City so well, and strongly fortified, and manned) was in cutting off all supplies of victuals, and other necessaries; Whereof, though the Town was said to be stored sufficiently for more than twenty years, yet might it well be imagined, that amongst such a World of People as dwelt within those Walls, one great want or other would soon appear amongst them, and vanquish the resolution of that unwarlike multitude. Yet in expecting that success of this course, the Besiegers were likely to endure much hardship, and travel, and that all in valn, if they did not keep strict watch, and sure guards upon all the Avenues, and Quarters of it.

Which that he might the better do, he caused presently a vast trench, both for bredth and depth to be cast round about the Walls of the City, casting the earth ever towards his own Army, and made store of Bulworks all along upon it, for his Guards to be upon: and then, dividing his whole Army into twelve parts, he ordered that each of them should watch his Moneth, by turn.

And yet this was a very hard work,The Babylonians vain Hopes. considering the vast circuit of those Walls which they were to gird in, having neither men enough, nor yet sufficiently assured to their Commander; the consideration whereof Ministred unto the Babylonians matter of good Pastime, when they saw Lydians, Phrygians, Cappadocians, and others, quartered about their City to keep them in, who, having been their Ancient Friends, and Allies, were more like to joyn with them, if occasion were offered, than to use much diligence on the behalf of Cyrus, who had, as it were but yesterday; laid upon their necks the galling Yoke of servitude.

Whilst the Besieged were thus pleasing themselves with this foolish-fansie, and vain mirth (the ordinary forerunners of sudden calamity) Cyrus, who by God that set him on work,Cyru's stratagem. was made strong, valiant, constant, and inventive, devised, and by the labour of his men, digged so many Channels as were capable of receiving the Waters of Euphrates, and so to draw the same from the Walls of Babylon, that thereby he might make his approaches the more facile, and assured, which, when by the labour of many hands he had performed, he waited for a fit time wherein to put in execution, what he had designed. For he had left in each of the Trenches towards the River, certain Banks, or Heads uncut till he saw his opportunity.

Now Belshazzar finding neither any want or weakness within the City,Belshazzar [...] Feast. nor any possibility for his enemies without, to approach the Walls by reason of the great River that surrounded them, he prepared an exceeding sumptuous Feast, Publick Plays, and other Pastimes, and thereto invited a Thousand of his Princes, or Nobles, besides his Wives, Courtezans, and others of that Trade. This he did, either to let the Besiegers know that his Provisions were sufficient, not only for all needful uses, but even for superfluity, and excess; Or because he hoped that his enemies by this time were discouraged, [Page] and even broken under their manifold disasters: Or else he made this Feast in honour of Bell, his most adored Idol: Or lastly, because it was his Birth, or Coronation Day: Or for many, or most of these respects.

Yea, he was not contented to use, and shew such Magnificence, as no Prince else could Equal, but he lifted up himself against the God of Heaven, Dan. 5. 23. For he, his Princes, his Wives, and his Concubines, made carousing Cups of the Golden, and Silver Vessels which his Grandfather Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the Temple which was at Jerusalem; and in contempt of the Lord of Heaven,His Blasphemy. he praised his own Puppets made of Gold, and Silver, and Brass, and Iron, and Wood, and Stone; Whilst Belshazzar was thus triumphing, and had his brains well filled with vapours, he beheld a hand,The Writing on the Wall. which by Divine power wrote upon the Wall that was opposite to him, certain Words which he understood not, wherewith, so great a fear, and amazement seized upon him, that the joynts of his loins were loosed,The Kings Distraction. and his knees smote one against another; Which Passion when he had in some measure recovered, he cryed aloud to bring in the Astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the Southsayers, promising them great rewards, and the third place of Honour in his Kingdom, to him that could read, and expound the Writing: But it exceeded their Art, and Skill.

In this disturbance and astonishment the Queen,The Queen comforts him. hearing what had passed, came in, and observing what distraction the King was in, after Reverence done, She used this Speech; O King live for ever; Let not thy thoughts trouble thee, nor let thy countenance be changed; there is a man in thy Kingdom in whom is the Spirit of the holy Gods, and in the Days of thy Father light, and understanding, and Wisdome like the Wisdom of the Gods was found in him, whom the King Nebuchadnezzar thy Father, the King I say, thy Father made Master of the Magicians, the Astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the Southsayers; for as much as an excellent Spirit, and knowledg, and understanding, in interpreting Dreams, and shewing of hard Sentences, and dissolving doubts were found in the same Daniel, whom the King named Belteshazzar. Now let Daniel be called, and he will shew the Interpretation.

This Queen was either the Grandmother, or the Mother of Belshazzar; For it appears that She was not any of the Kings Wives, because She was absent from the Feast, and in regard of her age, past banquetting, and dancing; Yet upon the report of the Miracle, She came in to comfort, and cheer up the King; and whereas Daniel was forgotten, and neglected by others, of younger years, and latter times, this old Queen remembred well, what Daniel had done in the days of Nebuchadnezzar; Grandfather to this Belshazzar, and kept in mind, both his Religion, and Divine gifts.

When Daniel was brought into the Kings presence,Daniel brought in. he said unto him: Art thou that Daniel, which art of the Children of the Captivity of Judah; whom the King my Father brought out of Jewry?The Kings Speech to him. I have heard of thee that the Spirit of the Gods is in thee, and that light, and understanding, and excellent Wisdom is found in thee; and now the Wise men and the Astrologers have been brought in before me, that they should read this Writing, and make known to me the Interpretation thereof, but they could not do it: And I have heard of thee that thou canst make Interpretations, and dissolve doubts: Now if thou canst read the Writing, and make known to me the Interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with Scarlet, and have a chain of Gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third Ruler in the Kingdom.

But Daniel made answer in a far differing stile from that which he had used to his Grandfather;Daniels answer. For the evil which he had foretold to Nebuchadnezzar he wished that it might befal his enemies: But to this King (whose contempt [Page] of God, and vicious life he hated) he answered in these Words; Let thy gifts be to thy self, and give thy rewards to another: Yet I will read the writing to the King, and make known to him the Interpretation: which yet before he did, he shewed him the cause of Gods Judgments against him, and the reason of this terrible sentence, whereof the King and all his Wise men were utterly Ignorant, the substance whereof is this; That Belshazzar, forgetting Gods goodness to his Father, whom all Nations feared and obeyed, and yet for his Pride, and neglect of those benefits, as he had deprived him of his Estate and Understanding; so upon the acknowledgement of Gods infinite power, he restored him to both again; And thou his Son (said he) O BelshazZar, hast not humbled thy heart; though thou knowest all this, But hast lifted up thy self against the Lord of Heaven, and they have brought thee Vessels of his House before thee, and thou and thy Lords, thy Wives and thy Concubines, have drunk Wine in them, and thou hast praised the Gods of silver, and Gold, &c. and the God in whose hand thy [...]reath is, and whose are all thy wayes, hast thou not Glorified: Then was the part of the band sent from him, He reads and interprets the writing. and this writing was written, Mene, Mene, Tekel, Uphar [...]in, Whereof this is the Interpretation: Mene, God hath numbred thy Kingdom, and finished it: Tekel, Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting: Peres, Thy Kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians.

The very Evening, or Night of this Day, wherein Belshazzar thus Feasted, and wherein these things were done, Cyrus, either by his Espcials, or being inspired by God himself, whose Ensign he followed in these Wars, finding the time and opportunity fit for him, even whilst the Kings Head, and and the Heads of his Nobility, were no less distempered with the Vapours of Wine, than their hearts were with the fear of Gods Judgments, he caused all the Banks, and Heads of his Trenches to be opened, and cut down with all speed and diligence,Cyrus drai [...] Euphrates, whereby that great River Euphrates was quickly drawn dry, and himself, with his Army, passing through the Channel, which was now dry, without any opposition, they easily made their entrance into the City, finding none to disturb them; Invadunt urbem somno, Vinoque sepultam: All the Town lay buried in Wine and Sleep; and such as came in the Persians way,Babylon taken. were put to the Sword, unless they saved themselves by flight, as some did, who ran away crying, and filled the Streets with an uncertain tumult.

Such of the Assyrian Lords as had formerly revolted from Belshazzar to Cyrus, did now conduct a selected company to the Kings Palace, which being easily forced by them, they rushed strait into the Chamber where the King and his Princes were Banquetting, and there slew both him and them without mercy,Belshazzar slain. who strove in vain to keep those lives which God had newly threatned to take away.Prophesies fulfilled. Now was that Prophesie fulfilled, Jer. 51. 30, 31, 32. The mighty men of Babylon have forborn to fight; they have remained in their holds; their might hath failed; they became as women; they have burnt their dwelling-places; Her barrs are broken. One Post shall run to meet another, and one messenger to meet another, to shew the King of Babylon that his City is taken at one end. And that the passages are stopped (viz. of the River Euphrates) and the Reeds they have burnt with fire, and the men of War are affrighted. The Prophet Isay also, two hundred years before this subversion of Babylon, in his forty seventh Chapter, and elsewhere, describeth this destruction so feelingly and lively, as if he had been present, both at the terrible slaughter there committed, and had seen the great and unfeared change, and calamity of this great Empire; Yea, and had also heard the sorrows and bewailings of every surviving Soul, thereunto subject; which Prophesie he begins with these words; Come down, and sit in the dust, O Virgin Daughter of Babylon, sit on the Ground; there is no Throne; O Daughter of the Chaldeans: For thou shalt [Page]no more be called tender and delicate, &c. And though it cannot be doubted, that God used Nebuchadnezzar and the Chaldeans, as his Instruments to punish the Idolatry and wickedness of the Iews, yet did he not forget that in the Execution of Gods Judgments, they had used much rigour and extremity; as we see, Isa. 47. 6. I was wroth with my people; I have polluted mine Inheritance, and given them into thine hand; Thou didst shew them no mercy; Upon the Ancient hast thou very heavily laid the yoke; And again, I will rise up against them, saith the Lord of Hosts, and will cut off from Babel the Name, and the remnant, and the Son, and the Nephew: meaning Evilmerodach and Belshazzar. And again, Isa. 13. 15, &c. Every one that is found shall be thrust thorow; and every one that is joyned to them shall be slain with the Sword; their Children also shall be dashed to pieces before their eyes, their Houses shall be spoiled, and their Wives ravished. Behold, I will stir up the Medes against them, which shall not regard Silver, and as for Gold, they shall not delight in it; their Bowes also shall dash the young men to pieces, and they shall have no pity on the fruit of the Womb; their eye shall not spare children. And Babylon. the Glory of Kingdoms, and beauty of the Chaldees excellency, shall be, as when God overthrew Sodom, and Gomorrah, &c. Read also Chapter fourteenth. No Historian that was either present at this Victory of Cyrus, or that received the report from others truly as it was, could better describe, and leave the same to posterity after it was acted, than Isay hath done in many parts of his Prophesie, which were written two hundred years before any of these things were attempted.

The Greatness and Magnificence of Babylon, The greatness of Babylon, were it not by divers grave Authors recorded, might seem altogether Fabulous; For it is reported for truth, that one part of the City knew not that the other was taken three dayes after; which is not impossible, if we consider the vast Circumference of it. Diodorus Siculus saith, that it was in compass three hundred and sixty Furlongs, which make forty five Miles. The Walls were so thick, that six Chariots might pass in front thereon, and they were three hundred sixty and five Foot high, and were adorned, and beautified with one hundred and fifty Towers. Strabo gives a greater circuit, adding twenty five Furlongs more to the former compass, reckoning it at three hundred eighty five Furlongs, which makes forty eight Miles and one Furlong, Herodetus finds the compass yet to be greater, namely, four hundred and eighty Furlongs in circuit, the thickness of the Wall he measures at fifty Cubits, and the height at two hundred of the same Regal Cubits. For entrance, it had a hundred Gates of Brass, with Posts and Hooks to hang them on of the same Metal; and therefore did the Prophet Isay rightly intitle Babylon, The Princess, and Glory of Kingdoms, Isa. 47. 5. & 13. 19.

But when Cyrus had won her,Babylons miserable Captivity. he stript her out of her Princely Robes, and made her a slave, dividing not onely her goodly Houses, and her whole Territory, with all the Riches therein contained, amongst his Souldiers; but also bestowed the Inhabitants themselves as Bondslaves, upon those that had taken possession of their goods.

Cyrus having obtained this great, and Signal Victory, the glory of which was a reward for his service done for him who was the Author of it, and of all goodness, and thereby translated the Empire of the Chaldeans to himself, according to the Prophesies which went afore of him; in this first year of his Empire,Cyrus releases the Jews. he made a Decree that the Captive Jews should return again into their own Countrey of Judea, and that they should build again the House of God in Jerusalem, having now endured, and finished the seventy years Captivity, foretold by the Prophet Jeremy, The tenour of which Decree was thus;

Thus saith Cyrus King of Persia;His Decree for it. The Lord God of Heaven hath given me all the Kingdoms of the Earth, and hath charged me to build him an House at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Who is there among you, of all his people? Let [Page]his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the House of the Lord God of Israel (He is God) which is at Jerusalem: And whosoevèr remaineth in any place where he [...]journeth, let the men of his place help him with Silver, and with Gold, and with goods, and with Beasts, besides the freewill Offering for the House of God that is in Jerusalem, Ezra. 1. 2, 3, 4. He also brought forth, and restored the Vessels of the House of the Lord, which Nebuchadnezzar had brought forth out of the Temple at Jerusalem, and had put them into the House of his gods; These were brought forth and numbred unto Sheshhazzar the Prince of Judah; Or Zorobabel. He restor [...]s the Vessels of the Temple▪ and this is the number of them; Thirty Chargers of Gold, a thousand Chargers of Silver, nine and twenty Knives, thirty Basins of Gold, Silver Basins of a second sort, four hundred and ten, and of other Vessels a thousand; All the Vessels of Gold and Silver were five thousand and four hundred.

The number of Jews that then returned out of Chaldea, The Jews come to Jer [...] salem. under their Leader Zorobabel, the Son of Salathiel, and Nephew to King Jeconias, and Joshua the Son of Josedech, the High Priest, were about fifty thousand: And as soon as they arrived at Jerusalem, they built an Altar to the living God, and sacrificed thereon according to their Law, and afterwards bethought themselves how to prepare materials for the building of the Temple.

Cyrus having set all things in order at Babylon, returned, through Media, into Persia, to his Father Cambyses, and his Mother Mandanes, who were yet living;His Marriage. and from thence returning again into Media, he married the only Daughter and Heir of Cyaxares, and for Dowry, had the whole Kingdom of Media given him with her; And when the Marriage was finished, he presently went his way, and took her with him; and coming to Babylon, His Governours. from thence he sent Governours into all his Dominions; Into Arabia he sent Megabyzus; into Phrygia the greater, Artacaman; into Lydia and Ionia, Chrysantas; into Caria, Adusius; into Phrygia Helle spontiaca, or the less, Pharmicas; But into Cilicia and Cyprus, and Paphlagonia, he sent no Persians to Govern them, because they voluntarily, and of their own accord, took his part against the King of Babylon; yet he caused even them also to pay him Tribute.

Cyrus having spent one whole year with his Wife in Babylon, His great A [...] my and Victories. gathered thither his whole Army, consisting of one hundred and twenty Thousand Horse, and two Thousand Iron Chariots, and six hundred Thousand Footmen; and having furnished himself with all necessary provisions, he undertook that Journey wherein he subdued all the Nations inhabiting from Syria to the Red Sea.

The time that Cyrus enjoyed in rest and pleasure after these great Victories,Cyrus his Civil Government. and the attainment of his Empire, is generally agreed upon by all Chronologers to have lasted only seven years; In which time he made such Laws and Constitutions, as differ little from the Ordinances of all wise Kings, that are desirous to establish a Royal power to themselves and their Posterity, which are recorded by Xenophon.

The last War,His last Wars. and the end of this Great King Cyrus, is diversly written by Historians: Herodotus and Justin say, That after these Conquests, Cyrus invaded the Massagets, a very Warlike Nation of the Scythians, Governed by Tomyris, their Queen: and that in an encounter between the Persians, and these Northern Nomades, Tomyris lost her Army, together with her Son Spargapises, that was the General of it. In revenge whereof, this Queen making new levies of men of War, and prosecuting the War against Cyrus, in a second sore Battel, the Persians were beaten, and Cyrus was taken Prisoner, and that Tomyris cut off his Head from his Body, and threw it into a Bowl of Blood, using these words; Thou that [Page]hast all thy time thirsted for blood, now drink thy fill, and satiate thy self with it. This War which Metasthenes calls Tomyrique, lasted about six years.

But more probably, this Scythian War was that which is mentioned before, which Cyrus made against the Scythians, after the Conquest of Lydia, according to Ctesias, who calleth Tomyris, Sparetha, and makes the end of it otherwise, as you may see before.

The same Ctesias also recordeth, that the last War which Cyrus made, was against Amarhaeus, King of the Derbitians, another Nation of the Scythians, whom,His Death. though he overcame in Battel, yet there he received a Wound whereof he died three dayes after.

Strabo also affirmeth, that he was buried in his own City of Pesagardes, which himself had built, and where his Epitaph was to be read in Strabo's time, which he saith was this;

O Vir, His Epitaph. quicunque es, & undecunque advenis, neque enim te adventurum ignoravi: Ego sum Cyrus, qui Persis Imperium constitui; pusillum hoc Terrae, quo meum tegitur Corpus, mihi ne invideas. O thou man, whosoever thou art, and whensoever thou comest, for I was not ignorant that thou shouldst come: I am Cyrus that founded the Persian Empire: Do not envy me this little Earth with which my Body is covered.

When Alexander the Great returned from his Indian Conquests, he visited Pesagardes, Alexander opens his Sepulchre. And honours his Tomb. and caused this Tomb of Cyrus to be opened, either upon hope of great Treasure supposed to have been buried with him, or upon a desire to honour his dead Body with certain Ceremonies; when the Sepulchre was opened, there was found nothing in it, save an old rotten Target, two Scythian Bows, and a Sword. The Coffin wherein his Body lay, Alexander caused to be covered with his own Garment, and a Crown of Gold to be set upon it.

Cyrus finding in himself that he could not long enjoy the World, he called unto him his Nobility, with his two Sons, Cambyses and Smerdis, and after a long Oration,Cyrus his last words. wherein he assured himself, and taught others, about the Immortality of the Soul, and of the punishments and rewards following the ill, and good deservings of every man in this life; He exhorted his Sons, by the strongest Arguments he had, to a perpetual Concord and Agreement, Many other things he uttered, which makes it probable, that he received the knowledge of the true God from Daniel, whilst he Governed Susa in Persia; and that Cyrus himself had read the Prophesie of Isay, wherein he was expresly named, and by God pre-ordained for the delivery of his people out of Captivity; which act of delivering the Jews, and of restoring of the Holy Temple, and the City of Jerusalem, was in true consideration the Noblest work that ever Cyrus performed. For in other actions he was an Instrument of Gods power, used for the chastising of many Nations, and the establishing of a Government in those parts of the World, which yet was not to continue long: But herein he had the favour to be an Instrument of Gods goodness, and a willing advancer of his Kingdom upon Earth, which must last for ever.

Cyrus had issue two Sons,His Issue. Cambyses and Smerdis, and three Daughters, Atossa, Meroe, and Artistona. At his Death he bequeathed his Empire to his Eldest Son Cambyses, appointing Smerdis, his younger Son, to be Satrapa, or Lieutenant of Media, Armenia, and Cadusia. He reigned about one and thirty years, and died aged.

The Greek Historians wholly ascribe the Conquest of Babylon to Cyrus, because that he commanded the Army in Chief; yet the Scriptures attribute it to Darius, King of the Medes, whose General Cyrus was: For when Babylon was taken, and Belshazzar slain; It's said, Dan. 5. 31. that Darius [Page] the Median took the Kingdom, being about sixty two years old. It was Darius also that placed Officers over the several Provinces thereof, as we read, Dan. 6, 1, 2. It pleased Darius to set over the Kingdom an hundred and twenty Princes, which should be over the whole Kingdom, and over these, three Presidents, of whom Daniel was the first, &c. And thus was it Prophesied by Isay long before; Behold! I will stir up the Medes against them, &c. And by the Prophet Jeremy; The Lord hath raised up the Spirit of the King of the Medes: for his device is against Babylon, &c. Jer. 55. 11. And again, verse 28. Prepare against her the Nations, with the Kings of the Medes, the Captains thereof, and all the Rulers thereof, and all the Land of his Dominion.

But certain it is, that the Honour of that great Victory over Babylon, was wholly given to Cyrus, who was the Instrument pre-ordained, and forenamed by God himself: not onely for this Action; but also for the delivery of his Church: Yet Daniel makes it plain, that himself, not onely lived a great Officer under King Darius, but that he continued in that estate to the first year of Cyrus, which was not long after, which also was the year of Daniels Death.

As for the Age of Cyrus, we are beholding to Tully for it; who, in his first Book de Divinatione, Cites it out of one Dionysius, a Persian Writer, in this manner. The Sun (saith Dionysius) appeared unto Cyrus in his sleep, standing at his feet; which, when Cyrus thrice endeavoured to take in his hands, the Sun still turned aside, and went away: and the Magi, who were the most learned men amongst the Persians, said, that by his thrice offering to take hold of the Sun, was portended to him that he should reign thirty years; which came to pass accordingly: His Age. For he lived to the Age of seventy years, and began not to reign till he was forty.

In the first year of Belshazzar, Some useful Observations. Daniel had the Vision shewed him of the four Beasts, signifying the four Monarchies; and of God delivering over all power and Sovereignty to the Son of man, Dan. 7.

In the third year of Belshazzar, the Vision of the Ram and Goat, fore [...]ewing the destruction of the Persian Monarchy by Alexander the Great, and the great misery which Antiochus should bring upon the People of God, was shewed to Daniel, living then at Susa, in the Province of Elam, upon the Bank of the River Ulai, which environed the Castle of Susa, and parted the Provinces of Susa and Elemais, Dan. 8. whence we may collect, that at that time the Province of Susa was not in the hands of the Medes and Persians, but of the Babylonians, under whom Daniel then lived.

Darius the Mede, son of Cyaxares, or Ahasuerus the Son of Astyages, took upon him the Kingdom, which was delivered over to him by Cyrus, the Conqueror, Dan. 5. 31. and 9. 1. The Angel, in this first year of his Reign, is said to have confirmed, and strengthened him in his Kingdom, Dan. 11. 1. After which he reigned two years.

Towards the end of the first year of Darius the Mede, the seventy years of the Babylonish Captivity expired, which began under Jehoiakim, in the first year of Nebuchadnezzar, at which time God promised that they should return into their own Countrey, Jer. 29. 10. Thus saith the Lord, that after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon, I will visit you, and perform my good word towards you, in causing you to return to this place. Upon consideration of which very time, now so near approaching, it was, that Daniel poured out that most fervent Prayer for the Remission of his own sins, and of his Peoples; and for that promised deliverance out of their Captivity: Whereupon the Angel Gabriel brought him an answer, not only concerning this, but also for the spiritual deliverance of the Church, to be wrought [Page] at last by the Death of the Messias, uttering that most famous, and memorable Prophesie of the seventy Weeks, Dan. 9. 12, &c.

The Samaritans, by the means of some Courtiers about Cyrus, whom they had bribed for that purpose, disturbed the Jews in their building of the Temple, Ezra 4. 5. Whence proceeded that three weeks mourning of the Prophet Daniel, which Fast he begun about the third Day of the first Moneth, in the third year of Cyrus, Dan. 10. 1, 4. After which, upon the four and twentieth Day of the first Moneth, that Vision of the Kings of Persia, of Alexander the Great, and his Successours, and their Kingdoms, was shewed and revealed unto Daniel, as he stood upon the Bank of Hiddikel, or Tygris; All which is contained in the three last Chapters of Daniel; which (as may be collected out of the close thereof) was the last Vision that ever he had, and that but a little before his Death.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF ARTAXERXES MNEMON, One of the Great MONARCHS OF PERSIA.

[Page]

THere were two Artaxerxes's that were Monarchs of Persia; the first was called Artaxerxes Longimanus, or Long-hand, because his right hand was longer than his left. The second (whole Life we are now setting forth) was called Artaxerxes Mnemon, from his excellent Memory. This Artaxerxes was the Son of Darius Ochus, His Parentage. begotten by him on the Body of Parysatis, before he came to be King: And Parysatis was the Daughter of the first Artaxerxes. Darius had by his Wife Parysatis four Sons, of the which the eldest was this Ataxerxes, the second was called Cyrus, the two younger Ostanes, and Oxathres. This Artaxerxes before he came to the Kingdom, was called Arsaces, but after he came to the Kingdom he assumed the name of Artaxerxes: Darius Ochus raigned Nineteen Years, and dyed at Babylon. When he lay on his Death-bed, his Son Artaxerxes asked him by what Wisdom and Policy he had maintained his State so long, To the end (said he) that having learned by you,A wise saying: I may follow your steps therein? To whom Darius answered, That he had done it, by doing right to God and man.

Cyrus from his Childhood was of an hot stirring disposition, and Artaxerxes on the contrary was alwayes mild and gentle. Wherefore Parysatis always loved her Son Cyrus more than the Elder, and therefore often urged her Husband Darius Ochus to follow the example of Darius Hystaspes, to leave him to succeed in the Kingdom, who was first born, after he came to be King, and not him who was born before. This indeed did help Xerxes to the Kingdom: [Page] Wherefore she urged this Example to induce her Husband to leave the Kingdom to Cyrus, who was born after his Father was Crowned King, and not unto Arsaces, who was born before: Yet could she never prevail. For Darius, by his last will, gave the Kingdom to his eldest Son Artaxerxes, and made Cyrus Governour of Lydiae, and the King Leiutenant General of all the lower Countries of Asia, next to the Sea side.

Shortly after the Death of Darius, He comes to the Kingdom. the new King Artaxerxes went unto Pasargades, there to be Consecrated, and A [...]ointed King by the Priests of Persia. At this place was a Temple dedicated to Minerva, where the new Kings must be Consecrated, after this manner: When he came into the Temple he must put off his own Gown, and put on that which the first and great Cyrus wore before he was King Then he must eat of a certain Tart or Fricacy made of Figs with Turpentine.Ceremonies at his Consecration. Then he must take a Drink made with Vinegar and Milk, besides some other secret Ceremonies, which none knew but the Priests themselves.

Now when Artaxerxes was ready to enter into the Temple, Tisaphernes came to him, and brought him one of the Priests; who had been Schoolmaster to Cyrus in his Youth, who informed him that Cyrus had conspired Treason against him,Treason discovered. and that he meant traiterously to kill him in the Temple when he should put off his Gown. Upon this accusation Cyrus was apprehended, and condemned: But as he was going to execution, his Mother took him in her armes, and wound the hair of her Head about his Neck, wherewith she tyed him fast to her, and withall, she wept so bitterly, and made such pittiful mone to the King her Son,The Traytor pardoned. that at her intercession, he granted to Cyrus his life, and sent him again to his Government in the lesser Asia.

Yet Cyrus was not satisfied with this, but shortly after entered into open Rebellion against the King his Brother;Cyrus his new Treason. for which end he kept Souldiers in pay in divers places, not bringing them altogether into one Army, because he desired to conceal his enterprise. He had also Friends, and Servants that levied him men in divers places, and under divers pretences. He had his Mother alwayes about the King that cleared all suspitions conceived against him. Himself also whilst he made these preparations, wrote very humbly to his Brother; one while craving somthing of him, and another while accusing Tisaphernes, to delude the King, and make him believe that he bent all his malice against the said Tisaphernes.

Artaxerxes at his first coming to the Crown, followed and imitated the goodness,Artaxerxes his Virtues. and curtesie of the first Artaxerxes, giving easie audience unto suitors, and more honourably rewarding those that had deserved well of him: and he used such moderation in punishing offenders, that he made it appear that he punished not out of any malicious mind, or desire of revenge, nor yet out of a will to hurt any man. When he had any thing given him he took it very thankfully, and did as willingly and frankly give to them again: For how small a thing soever was offered him, he took it well. One Romises upon a time presenting him with a marvellous fair Pomgranate: By the Sun (said he) this man in a short time of a little Town would make a great City, if he were made Governour of it. His gratitude. At another time a poor Labourer seeing every man give the King a present, he having nothing to give, ran to the River side and took both his hands full of Water, and came and offered it to the King, who took it so kindly, that in a Cup of Massey Gold, he sent him a thousand Daricks, which were pieces of Gold so called, because the Image of Darius was stamped upon them. And when one Euclidas a Lacedemonian, presumed to give him bold words,His meekness. he answered by one of his Captains, Thou maist say what thou listest, and I, as King may say and do what I list. Another time as he was hunting, Tiribazus shewed the King his Gown that was all tattered: [Page] Well (said the King) what wouldst thou have me do? I pray your Grace (said Tiribazus) take you another and give me that you have on. The King did so, adding, Tiribazus, I give thee my Gown, but I command thee not to wear it: But Tiribazus being a foolish, light-headed Fellow, not caring for the Kings Commandment, did strait put on the Gown, and besides, set on many Jewels which Kings only used to wear, whereupon every one in the Court murmured at him, because it was a presumption, directly against the Laws of Persia: His prudence. Yet the King did but laugh at it, saying, I give thee leave Tiribazus to wear those Women gawds as a Woman, and the Kings Robe as a Fool.

It was the manner in Persia, that no Person sat at the Kings Table but his Mother (which sat uppermost) and his Wife which sat lowermost, but Artaxerxes made his two younger Brethren, Ostanes and Oxathres to sit with him, which much pleased the Persians, but especially, because he was contented that his Wife Statira should sit openly in her Chariot, that she might be seen and reverenced by the other Ladies of the Court, and Country. But some that hated Peace and desired innovations, said, that the Realm of Persia, needed such a Prince as Cyrus, that was bountiful, given to Arms, and that liberally rewarded his Servants.

At this time all the Cities of Jonia, except Miletus, which were under the Government of Tisaphernes, fell from him to Cyrus: and Cyrus sent to Artaxerxes, praying him that he would be pleased to trust him, being his Brother, with those Cities, rather than Tisaphernes, and in this suit his Mother also sticked hard for him: All this while the King discerned not the Treason intended against him; but thought that Cyrus kept his Army about him to strengthen him against Tisaphernes, and he was well content that they two should try it out between themselves; for Cyrus did daily send the King the Tribute of those Cities, which Tisaphernes formerly held. But in the mean time Cyrus sent to Lacedemon, Cyrus his dissimulation▪ praying them, that as he had hitherto supported them with men and money against the Athenians, so now they would send him some men, boasting if they sent him Foot, he would give them Horses, if Horsemen, he would give them Coaches. If they had Lands he would give them Townships: If Towns, he would give them Cities for their rewards: And for their wages, they should have it, not by tale, but by weight, and paid down presently. Hereupon the Lacedemonians jndging his request but equal, and that this War would tend to their advantage, they decreed him aid, and the Ephori sent presently to their Admiral at Samos, to do whatsoever Cyrus required of him: He therefore with his Ships put over to Ephesus, where he met with Tamos the Aegyptian, who was Admiral with Cyrus, and offered him his service, joyning his Fleet to his: and so they both sailed round about the coast of Jonia, unto Cania, whereby they prevented Syenesis (who Governed there) that he could not stir to hinder Cyrus in his march against his Brother.

Cyrus having now his Army in readiness, resolved to march into upper Asia, giving out, that he went against the Pisidians, who (as he said) made often inrodes into his Government: He sent for Clearchus of Lacedemonia, Aristippus of Thessaly, Xenes of Arcadia, those which were banished from Miletus, and the Army that lay before that City: Proxenus also a Booetian, with all the power he could make, both of Grecians and others, to repair speedily to him to Sardis. But Tisaphernes seeing greater preparations made than a bare going against the Pisidians could require,The Treason discovered. taking with him five hundred Horse, made all the speed that possibly he could to Artaxerxes, informing him of his danger, who thereupon presently prepared for the Wars.

Cyrus in the mean time left some trusty Persians, his Friends, to look to Lydia, and Tamos, his Admital, to take care of the Cities of Jonia and Eolia in his absence, [Page] and himself with his Army marched towards Caria, and Pisidia, still giving it out, that some Persons in those parts were grown unruly. He had in his Army a great number of his own, besides thirteen thousand Grecians; when news of his approach was brought to the Court, all was strait in an uproar. Many accused the Queen-Mother as having a hand in it, and all her Servants were vehemently suspected: But that which troubled Parysatis most, was Queen Statyra, her Daughter in Law, who stormed exceedingly when she saw this War begun against her Husband, and cryed out on the Queen-Mother for it: Parysatis hereupon, being a cruel and malicious Woman, so hated her hence forwards, that she sought her Death by all means.

Cyrus in the mean time came on (without resistance) even to the City of Babylon: And whereas Artaxerxes had determined to retire into the farthest parts of Persia, Tiribazus was the first that durst tell him that he should not shun the fight, lerving to his enemies the Kingdomes of Media, Babylon, and Susa, considering that he had a greater Army than Cyrus, and far more skilful Captains: which words made the King to alter his mind, and to resolve to give Battel so soon as he could.

Cyrus coming with his Army to the River Cayster, received money from Epiaxa, Wife to Syenesis, the King of Cilicia, wherewith he paid his Army full four months Wages:Policy. and by her perswasion her Husband Syenesis gave him also a vast summ of money towards the maintenance of his Army: and like a wise man, at the same time he supplied Artaxerxes with necessaries for the War: and having two Sons, he sent one of them to Cyrus, with a competent number of men for his service, and the other he sent privily away to Artaxerxes, to let him know, that having such an Army come upon him, he durst not but keep fair with Cyrus, nevertheless that he continued a true Servant in heart to Artaxerxes, and would fall to him so soon as he had opportunity.

At Tarsus the Grecians (who were eleven thousand Corselets, and two thousand Targateers) told Cyrus plainly, that they would march no farther; but by the wisdom of Clearchus they were perswaded to go on, and so they came to Issus, the utmost City of Cilicia: where Cyrus's Fleet met him, bringing great supplies to him, and the Straights of Syria being abandoned, Cyrus marched without any stop to the place where the fight shortly after was. Cyrus, besides the Grecians before mentioned, had in his Army one hundred thousand fighting men, and two hundred hooked Chariots. Of Artaxerxes his part there were four hundred thousand men,Their great Armies. and fifteen hundred hooked Chariots: The place where the fight was, was called Cyanaxa, five hundred furlongs from Babylon.

Cyrus his men were marvelously astonished when they saw the Army of Artaxerxes in such excellent good order, whereas themselves were dispersed here and there, stragling without any order, and ill armed, trusting too much to themselves and dispising their enemies: So that Cyrus had much ado to set his men in Battel array, and yet was it with great noise, and tumult. But of all others the Grecians wondred most, when they saw the Kings Army march in so good order of Battel without any noise: for they thought to have seen them in great disorder, and confusion, and supposed that they would have made such a noise as one could not have heard another: whereas Artaxerxes had marshalled his Army excellent well. He had placed before his Battel his best Chariots armed with Sithes, and drawn by the strongest and biggest Horses he had, hoping by their fierceness and fury to disorder the ranks of his enemies.

Before the Battel began, Clearchus (General of the Grecians) advised Cyrus to keep behind his Squadron, and not to hazard his Person amongst his own men: To whom Cyrus answered: What saist thou Clearchus? What wouldst thou [Page]have me who strive to be a King, to shew my self unworthy to be a King? But Clearchus himself committed as great, if not a worse fault, whenas he would not order his men directly against the Battel of the enemy where Artaxerxes was, but pent them up by the Rivers side, for fear least they should be compassed in behind, whereas, if the Grecians had been set in opposition to the King, he had never been able to endure their charge, but had either been slain or forced to fly, wherefore if Artaxerxes would have chosen or wished a place where the Grecians might have done him less hurt, he could not have devised a fitter place that was so far from him, and from whence the Grecians could neither see nor hear what was done in the place where he was, as afterwards appeared.

Cyrus being mounted upon an hot, and hard mouthed Horse, the Governour of the Province of the Caducians spyed him afar off,A [...]. and clapping spurs to his Horse, he came with a full career to him, crying out, O Traytor and most unfaithful man! Thou dishonourest the name of Cyrus, for that thou hast brought such valiant Grecians upon so wicked an enterprise, to spoil the Persians Goods, and to destroy thy Soveraign Lord and only Brother, who hath an infinite number of Slaves, and Servants that are honester men than thy self, and that thou shalt presently know by experience, for thou shalt die before thou seest the Kings face, and therewithall he threw his Dart at him with all his force: But the Armour of Cyrus was so good that it pierced not, yet the blow made him stagger on his Horse back. Artagerses having given him this blow, presently wheeled about: But Cyrus threw a Dart at him so happily that he slew him, the head of his Dart passing quite through his Neck. Cyrus hereupon presently slew upon those that were neerest to the Kings Person, and came so near the King that he flew his Horse under him: But Tiribazus presently mounted the King upon another Horse, and Cyrus, clapping spurs to his Horse, threw another Dart at the King and hit him: But at the third charge Artaxerxes told them about him that he could not abide this, and that he had rather die than suffer it, and thereupon he spurred his Horse to charge Cyrus, (who also came fiercely against him) and threw his Dart at him,Cyrus slain. as also did all those that were about the King, and so was Cyrus slain in this conflict.

Now after Cyrus was dead, Artasyras, one of the Kings Eunuchs, passing by, found his dead Body, whereupon he gallopped apace to the King, and with a smiling countenance told him the news. Artaxerxes was so joyful that he would needs go to the place to see it: But he was advised not to go in Person; for fear of the Grecians, who carried all before them, and were killing those that had fled before them. Upon this advice the King stayed; and sent thirty men with Torches in their hands to seek him out. The King was very ill, both by reason of the great thirst he suffered; as also by reason of a wound that he had received in his Breast by Cyrus: One of his Eunuchs therefore, called Satribarzenes ran up and down to see if he could get any Water for him: and as he ran here and there, he met with same poor Slaves of the Caunians, amongst which, one had in an old ragged Goats Skin about eight glasful of stinking naughty Water: This he presently carried to the King, who drank it up every whit, and his Eunuch asking him afterwards if that naughty Water did him no hurt? The King swore by the Gods, that he never drank better Wine, nor sweeter Water than that was, nor that pleased him better: and therefore (said he) I beseech the Gods, Note. if it be not my hap to meet with this man that gave thee this Water, to reward him, that yet it will please them to send him good Fortune.

As the King was thus talking with the Eunuches, the thirty men with Torches returned, who assured him of the death of Cyrus: Multitudes also [Page] of his Souldiers gathered about him, so that he began to be couragious and with an infinite number of Torches and lights about him, he went to the place where the Body of Cyrus lay, and caused his Head and right hand to be stricken off, and taking the Head by the Hair, he shewed it to his men, who were yet flying: they taking courage hereby, so flocked about the King, that in a short time he had seventy thousand Souldiers about him, with whom he returned again towards the Camp of Cyrus, which he rifled, and there met with a Concubine of Cyrus, Aspasia. taken. a woman famous for wit and beauty: She was a Phocaean, born in Ionia: her name at first was Mitto, but Cyrus called her Aspasia: She was brought bound to the King, for which he was so angry, that he imprisoned those that bound her, and ever after esteemed her above all the Harlots he kept (who were in number three hundred and sixty, all choice beauties) and most doted on her.

The Brigade of Grecians, The Grecians valour. not knowing what had befallen Cyrus, kept on fighting still, and had beaten Tisaphernes and all his power. But the King coming with the main of his Army to the relief of Tisaphernes, fell upon the Grecians Camp, and rifled it, yet when they returned from the pursuit, they recovered it, and beat the King out again, and lodged Supperless in it that night, as well as Dinnerless the day before.

Artaxerxes after this Battel sent rich Gifts unto the Son of Artagerses, Artaxerxes his Gratitude. whom Cyrus had slain with his own hands. He caused also the poor Caunian Slave that had given him the stinking Water, to be sought out, and of a poor wretch, and unknown before, he made him a rich Nobleman. He punished such severely as had offended against martial Discipline. And one Arbaces a Median, who at the first ran over to Cyrus, and after his Death he returned to Artaxerxes again,His Justice. for punishment, he compelled him to carry a whore on his back, stark naked all day long about the Market place: and for one who had yielded himself to his enemies, and yet falsly boasted that he had slain two, he caused his Tongue to be boared through in three places.

Artaxerxes thinking that himself had slain Cyrus, His Vainglory. and being desirous that all others should think so too, he sent Presents to Mithridates, who had first hurt him in the fore-head, commanding the Messenger to tell him from the King, The King sends thee these Presents, because thou didst first find the Caparisons of Cyrus his Horse, and broughtest them to the King. The Carian likewise that had cut Cyrus his hamm, which made him fall to the ground, asked his reward also, which the King gave him, and bad the Messenger tell him, The King gives thee this, because thou wast the second Person that brought him the good news of the Death of Cyrus. Now Mithridates, though he was not well pleased with the message, said nothing for the present, but the unhappy Carian, in a foolish vain, being overjoyed with the rich Presents, said, that he would not take them as a reward for bringing the news, but called the Gods to witness, that he was the man, and the onely man that slew Cyrus, and that he did him great wrong to take that honour from him. The King was so incensed hereby, that he commanded some presently to strike off his head:Horrid Cruelty. But Parysatis (the Queen-Mother) said, Let me alone with the Villain, I will chastise him well enough: and withall she sent Serjeants, who hung him in chains for ten dayes together, then caused his eyes to be pulled out of his head; and lastly, poured molten lead into his ears, and so killed him.

Not long after, Mithridates was invited to a Fcast, where many of the Kings and Queen-Mothers Eunuchs were, and Mithridates fat in the Golden Gown which the King had sent him: and after Supper, as they were drinking freely, one of the Queen-Mothers Eunuchs said to him, Mithridates, the King hath given thee a rich Gown, Goodly chains, and Carckenets of Gold, and every[Page]Rich, so that every one thinks thee a happy man with them. Mithridates answered; What meanest thou by this, Sparamixes? I deserved better than these when the Battel was fought. Why? (said Sparamixes) what so valiant an act was it to take up a Caparison of a Horse that fell to the ground, and to carry it to the King: Mithridates being a cholerick man, and his brain heat with wine, answered: You may talk as long as you list of a Caparison of a Horse, but I tell you plainly that Cyrus was slain with my own hands, and with no mans else. For I hit him not in vain, as Artagerses did, but full in the forehead, hardby the eye, which pierced through his head, of which blow he died. The envious Eunuch at his departure told this to Parysatis, who went presently and told it to the King. He was marvellously angry to lose the thing that was most honourable; and that best pleased him in his Victory. For he desired that all the world should believe, that though his Brother hurt him, yet he slew his Brother with his own hand: He therefore commanded that Mithridates should suffer the Death by Boats,Cruelty. which was thus; They took two Boats of equal size, and laying the offender in one of them upon his back, they covered him with the other, and fastned both Boats together, that his feet, hands, and head came out at holes made on purpose: then they gave him meat as much as he would eat, which if refused, they thrust awls into his eyes to force him: and when he had eaten, they gave him Honey and Milk to drink, pouring it also all over his face, and turned his face full into the Sun, which was covered over with Flyes sucking at it. In his excrements also that came from him, Worms did breed, which devoured his Flesh: And when they see the man is dead, they take off the upper Boat, and find all his flesh devoured to his very intrails. Mithridates thus miserably languished for seventeen dayes together, and then died, with much torment.

Now Parysatis, to satisfie her revenge, had only Mesabates to r [...]ak her teen on, who was one of the Kings Eunuchs, who, at his command, had cut off Cyrus his Head and Hand: But he was so wary, that she could get no advantage against him, wherefore she invented this device.Subtilty of Parysatis. She was very skilful in playing at Cards and Dice, and finding the King one day at leisure, she enticed him to play at Dice with her for a thousand Daricks, and was contented willingly to lose them, and paid them down. Then she prayed him to play with her for one of his Eunuchs: the King was contented, but they agreed that each of them should name five of the chiefest whom they would except, and then the loser should presently deliver to the winner the choice of all the other Eunuchs they had. Now did she play so warily and cunningly, that she wan the Game, and then required Mesabates to be delivered to her, being none of those whom the King excepted.Her cruelty. And when she had him, she delivered him to the Hangman, commanding him to flea him alive, and then to nail him to a Cross, and crucifie him, and to hang his skin by him, which was done accordingly. The King was marvellously angry when he knew it, and was grievously offended with his Mother. But Queen Statyra spared not to tell the Queen-Mother plainly, that it was wickedly done of her to put the Kings true and faithful Servant to so cruel a Death, for Cyrus sake. Yet Parysatis laughed it out, saying to her Son, Indeed it becomes thee well to be angry for an old Gelded Villain, whereas I lost a thousand Daricks, and said never a word for it. In brief, she would never be out of her Sons sight, but as little as might be, and would let his Wife Statyra have as little time with him as possible, that she might Govern him as she would; because she hated her of all Creatures living, as also for that she would bear the greatest sway and credit about him.

Tisaphernes having deceived Clearchus, The Grecian Coptains betrayed. and the other Captains of the Greeks, by falsifying his word and promise given to them, he sent them bound to the King, who cast them into Prison: and though Parysatis was an earnest suitor [Page] to the King her Son for them, yet at the perswasion of his Wife Statyra, he put them all to death but Menon.

Parysatis had for a long time born implacable and inveterate hatred against Statyra, for that she had more love and respect from the King than her self, so that she determined, that either her self or her Daughter in Law must dye. Now Statyra had a Maid called Gingis, or Gigis, who was very gracious with her,Statyra poysoned. and whom Parysatis made use of in poysoning Statyra. There is a little Bird in Persia called Rhindaces, that hath no excrements at all, but all her guts are stuffed full with fat: One of these Birds, as she sat at Table with Statyra, she (or one of her maids) took and cut in two, with a knife that was poysoned on the one side, and so gave that half which was towards that poisoned side to her Daughter, and did eat the other her self; shortly after which, the Queen died in extream torments: And the King presently suspected his Mother for it, knowing her cruel and implacable disposition; and he caused her Servants and Carvers to be examined, and wracked about it: But Parysatis kept Gingis a long time in her own chamber, and though the King required her, yet would she not give her up to Justice; till at last Gingis her self desiring to steal to her own lodging in the night, she was apprehended, and punished as a Poysoner. As for his Mother, the King neither did, nor said any hurt unto her: But when she desired to retire her self to Babylon, the King gave it her, but withall, swore to her, that while she lived, he would not come thither.

Artaxerxes, Artaxerxes his Gratitude. for his good service in the War, gave to Tisaphernes all the Governments which his Brother Cyrus had held, besides what he had before: he heaped also many other large gifts and favours upon him; and above all, gave him his own Daughter to Wife, and ever after used him as his most confident Friend and Servant.

Now Artaxerxes having done the utmost he could to overcome those Grecians whom his Brother Cyrus had brought into the heart of his Dominions, yet could he never prevail against them: For though they had lost Cyrus who entertained them,The Grecians valour. and all their Captains that led them; yet did they choose other Captains, whereof Xenophon was one, and made their retreat in spite of all the Power of Persia: whereupon all the other Grecians waxed bold, and despised those Barbarous People: and the Lacedemonians thought it a great shame to them, if they did not deliver the Grecians that dwelt in Asia from the slavery and bondage of the Persians: For which end, they sent thither their King Agesilaus, who passing into Asia with his Ships, began presently to make hot War against the Persians, and in the first conflict he overthrew Tisaphernes, and caused most of the Cities of the Greeks in those parts to rebell against him.

Artaxerxes being informed hereof, considered seriously how he might prevent this mischief, and at last resolved upon this as his only course. He sent into Greece, one Hermocrates, a Rhodian, with a very great sum of Gold and Silver,Artaxerxes his Policy. which he was bountifully to bestow amongst the Nobility, and chief Rulers of the Cities of Greece, to provoke them to rise up against the Lacedemonians. This Hermocrates so wisely managed his business; that he made the chiefest Cities of Greece to rebell against the Lacedemonians; so that all Peloponnesus being in Arms, the Ephori at Lacedaemon were enforced to send for Agesilaus home again. Agesilaus being sorry that he lef Asia, said unto his Friends: that the King of Persia had driven him out of his Dominions with thirty thousand Archers: and this he said, because the Persian coin was stamped on the Reverse with an Archer, having a Bow in his hand.

Artaxerxes also drave out the Lacedemonians from all their jurisdiction by Sea, by the help of Conon the Athenian Admiral, whom Pharnabazus (one of his Lieutenants) had procured to take his part. This Conon having been overthrown in a Battel at a place called the Goats River, kept ever after in the [Page] Isle of Cyprus, as being the meetest place to slay in, till the Wars of Greece were ended. He knowing that himself lacked power, and that Artaxerxes wanted a man of Judgment to be employed, he wrote Letters to him, wherein he advised him what to do. These Letters were delivered to Artaxerxes by Ctesias, who was presently sent to assist Conon. And it fell out, that after Artaxerxes had, through the conduct of Conon and Pharnebazus, won the Battel by Sea, near to the Isle of Gnidus, and thereby had driven the Lacedemonians from their Lordship of the Sea, all Greece had him in marvellous great estimation, so that he gave to the Grecians such conditions as he pleased, whereupon that famous Peace,Peace betwixt him and the Grecians. called Antalcid as Peace, was concluded. This Antalcidas was a Citizen of Sparta, who, favouring the affairs of Artaxerxes, procured by this Treaty of Peace, that the Lacedemonians should leave to Artaxerxes all the Grecian Cities in Asia, and all the Isles belonging thereunto, and to cause them to pay him Tribute at his pleasure.

This Peace being concluded with the Grecians, King Artaxerxes, though he extreamly hated the Lacedemonians, yet he loved Antalcidas very well, and entertained him honourably, when he came to him into Persia. One day the King took a Garland of Flowers, and wet it in the most precious and sweetest Oyl of perfume, that was prepared for the Feast, and sent it to Antalcidas: Indeed he was a meet man to follow the vanity and curiosity of the Persians. Shortly after, the Lacedemonians lost the Battel at Leuctres, and therewith the Principality which they had kept so long over all Greece. When Sparta flourished most, and was chief of all the other Grecian Cities, so long did Artaxerxes continue to make much of Antalcidas, and called him his Friend: But when the Lacedemonians had lost the Battel at Leuctres, having received so great a blow, and wanting money, they sent Agesilaus into Egypt, and Antalcidas into Persia, to King Artaxerxes to pray him to aid and assist the Lacedemonians: But he made so small account of him, and disdained him so much, denying his request, that he returned to Sparta with shame and dishonour: And there also, seeing that his enemies did mock him, and fearing that the Ephori would commit him to Prison, he killed himself with Famine.

About the same time, the Thebans, having under Epaminondas won the Battel at Leuctres, sent Ismenias and Pelopidas into Persia to King Artaxerxes, where Pelopidas did nothing unworthy himself: But Ismenias, being commanded to kneel to the King, let fall his Ring at his feet, and stooped to take it up, whereby some thought that he did it to kneel to the King. At another time, Artaxerxes, liking well a secret advertisement sent him from Timagoras the Athenian, he gave him ten thousand Daricks by his Secretary Belluris: and because he had a sickly Body, and was forced to drink Cows milk to restore him; the King therefore sent him eighty milch Kine, that he might have fresh Milk every day. He sent him also a Bed, with all things belonging thereto, and Grooms of his Chamber to make his Bed, saying, That the Grecians knew not how to make it. He also sent him men to carry him upon their Arms to the Sea-side, because he was sick: and whilst he was at Court, he entertained him very honourably, and bountifully.Justice. But the Athenians afterward condemned Timagoras to dye, because he had taken Bribes of the King of Persia.

But Artaxerxes, though he had in many other things vexed the Grecians, yet he did one thing that pleased them exceeding well, when he did put Tisaphernes to Death,Malice. who was the greatest enemy they had. Parisatis, the Kings Mother, did help to bring this to pass; aggravating the accusations which were brought against Tisaphernes, out of the hatred which she did bear him for her Son Cyrus his sake: For the King did not keep his anger long against her, but sent for her from Babylon, knowing that she had an excellent wit, and was fit to Govern a Kingdom: Besides, there was nothing now to hinder their [Page] coming together, his Wife being dead. And now Parysatis applyed her self to feed the Kings humour in every thing, seeming to mislike nothing that he did: By this means she grew into so great credit with him, that he denied nothing that she asked. She perceiving that the King was extreamly in love with one of his own Daughters called Atossa, which hitherto he had dissembled, chiefly for fear of her; Parysatis having found out this, began to make more of his Daughter than she did before; and in her Fathers presence, sometimes she praised her beauty, another time her grace and good carriage, saying,Unnatural wickedness. That she was like a Queen, and Noble Princess; so that at length she perswaded him to marry her openly (though before he had her Maidenhead) not passing for the Laws and opinions of the Grecians, considering that he was to establish Laws to the Persians, to determine of right, and wrong, good and bad. Hereupon he married Atossa, and loved her very intirely, insomuch as though she had a grievous disease that ran all over her Body, yet he loved her not the less for it, and prayed continually for her to the Goddess Juno, and fell on his knees before her Image, and sent to her so many offerings, that all the way from the Court Gates to Juno's Temple (which was sixteen furlongs off) was full of Gold, Silver, rich Purple, Silks, and Horses, which were sent thither.

About this time,He wars against Egypt. Artaxerxes made War against Aegypt, by Pharnabazus, and Iphicrates the Athenian; but they did no good, because they fell out betwixt themselves;And against the Caducians. wherefore himself went in Person against the Caducians, with three hundred thousand Foot, and ten thousand Horse. Their Country was very rude, which he invaded, alwayes dark and cloudy: the earth brought forth nothing that was sowed by man, and the Inhabitants lived upon Pears and Apples, and such like fruit, yet the men were strong and lusty. When he was entred far into this Country, his Army fell into great straits for want of Victuals;A Famine in his Army. for his Souldiers found nothing that was fit to eat, neither could they come by Victuals from any other place, because of the naughty, and craggy wayes, so that they were forced to live upon their own Beasts, and that was sold very dear; for an Asses head was sold for sixty Silver Drams. Yea, the Famine was so great, that the King himself wanted food, and now there were but few Horses left. Now Tiribazus, though he was at this time out of favour with the King, yet he invented this Stratagem▪ whereby he saved the King and all his men.

In this Countrey,A Stratagem, there were two Kings with their Armies in the Field, and each of them camped apart from the other. Tiribazus, after he had imparted his Project to the King, himself went to one of these Kings, and at the same time sent his Son to the other, and told either of them, that the other had sent Ambassadours unto King Artaxerxes, to make Peace with him, unwitting to his Companion: and therefore he counselled them, if they were wise, one of them to seek to prevent the other, with all the speed that possible he could. Both the one and the other Kings believed these words, either of them mistrusting the other; So that speedily the one sent his Ambassadours to Artaxerxes with Tiribazus, and the other also his Ambassadours with his Son. But Tiribazus tarrying somewhat long in the Journey, Artaxerxes began somewhat to suspect him: His enemies also accused him in his absence, and the King grew angry, and was sorry that he had trusted him so far. But at length he returned, and his Son also, and either of them brought with him the Ambassadours of the Cadusians, and so Peace was concluded with them both. Then was Tiribazus highly in favour again, and so departed with the King.

Artaxerxes at this time made it evident, that cowardliness doth not always proceed from Pomp and curiosity, which some think to effeminate mens hearts, but rather from a base and abject mind, that commonly follows evil, [Page] and the worst counsel. For neither the Jewels of Gold, nor Kingly Robe, not other sumptuous Ornaments which the King ever wore about him, valued at twelve thousand Talents, did hinder him at that time to travel, and to take as much pains as any man in all his Army.His hard travel. For he himself marched on foot the fore-most man, carrying his knapsack in a scarf upon his Shoulders, and his Target on his Arm, with which he travelled over high stony Mountains, so that his Souldiers seeing the Kings courage, and the pains that he took, they marched so nimbly, as if they had wings, about two hundred Furlongs a day. At length the King by hard travel, came to one of his own Houses, where were stately Arbours and Parks, with goodly Trees curiously planted, but all the Countrey beside, was naked and barren, having no other Trees near, and the weather was very cold: the King therefore suffered his Souldiers to hew down the goodly Pines,His pity to his Souldiers▪ and Cypress Trees in his Parks, and to embolden them, he himself took an Axe in his hand, and began to hew the goodliest Tree of them all: The Souldiers seeing that, fell every man to work, so that in a short time they had wood enough, and the Parks were filled with fires, by which the Souldiers sat all night.

In this expedition Artaxerxes lost many valiant men, and most of his Horses, wherefore, thinking that his men would mock him for his miscarriage, he grew distrustfull of all, and suspected the chiefest Nobles about him, so that in a rage he put many of them to death,His cruelty. and yet was not satisfied therewith. For there is nothing more cruel, nor a greater Bloud-sucker, than a cowardly Tyrant: as on the contrary, there is nothing more courteous and less suspicious than a valiant and couragious man.

After this, King Artaxerxes being grown very old, heard that there were great contentions between his Sons, which of them should inherit the Kingdome after his Death, and that the same was diffused amongst his Kindred and Nobles. The wisest of them desired, that as he himself came to the Kingdom, as his Fathers eldest Son, so that he also should leave it to his eldest Son called Darius. But the younger, who was called Ochus, being valiant, and of a stirring nature, had some in the Court that took his part, and himself hoped to obtain the Crown by the means of his Sister Atossa, whom he much loved, and promised to marry her, and to make her Queen, if he came to the Kingdom after his Fathers Death. Now Artaxerxes, because he would put Ochus out of all hope to succeed him, lest his expectation might put him to go about to practice that which Cyrus did, and by this means, his Realm should fall into factions and Civil Wars,Darius proclaimed King. he proclaimed his Son Darius, (who was now fifty years old) King after his Death, and gave him leave from henceforth to wear the point of his Hat upright, as the Persian Kings used to do.

Moreover, the custome in Persia was, that when any came to be proclaimed Heir apparent to the Crown, that he should request a gift of him that Proclaimed him his Successor, which the other grants whatsoever it be if it be possible.He begs his Fathers Concubine. Darius then asked his Father, for his Concubine Aspasia, who was first Concubine to Cyrus, but now the King kept her for his own use. She was born in Ionia of Free Parents, and was brought up virtuously, and amongst other beauties, she was brought one night to Cyrus as he was at Supper; those others, without making nice of it, sat down by him, and were glad when Cybegan to play and be merry with them, answering him pleasantly again: But Aspasia stood on her feet by the Table, and spake never a word, and though Cyrus called her, yet would she not come at him: And when one of the Grooms would have forced her to him, The first (said she) that shall lay hands on me, shall repent it; whereupon all that were present said, she was a foolish thing, and meanly brought up, and knew not what belonged to Courtship: But Cyrus being glad of it, passed it over with laughter, and said to him that brought [Page] them to him, Dost thou not see that of all those that thou hast brought me, there is not an honest woman but she? After this, Cyrus made much of, and loved her very well, and called her Aspasia the wise. She was taken in the Camp of Cyrus, amongst his spoils,Darius begs Aspasia. after his overthrow; and now Darius begged her of his Father, who was very angry in his mind for it. For the Persians, of all other things, were very jealous of their Women, and he was to be punished with Death that durst but speak to, or touch any Concubine of the Kings, though but in sport: yea, if they come near them, or near their Coaches, as they went abroad.

The Kings Daughter Atossa, whom he had married against the Law, was yet living, and besides her, he had three hundred and sixty Beautiful Concubines and yet, when Darius asked Aspasia of him, the King answered, that she was a Free-woman born, and if she would, he was content that he should have her, but if she was unwilling, he would not by any means have him to force her. So Aspasia was called, and she was asked with which of them she would choose to be?She chooses him before his Father. She answered, with Darius: This was contrary to the expectation of Artaxerxes, who, both by custome and Law, was forced to let him have her. But shortly after, he took her from him again, saying, that he would place her in a Nunnery of Diana, in the Country of Ecbatane, there to serve the Goddess, and to live chaste all her dayes. Darius took this very impatiently, either for that he was deeply in love with her, or because he thought that his Father mocked him.

Tiribazus perceiving it, he laboured to aggravate Darius his anger, and he every day buzzed it in his ears, that it was in vain for him to wear his hat upright, if his affairs also went not right forward, and that he deceived himself much, if he did not know that his Brother (by means of the women he kept) secretly aspired to the Crown: and that his Father being so inconstant as he was, he must not expect to succeed him in the Kingdom. For (said he) he that for a Grecian woman hath broken and violated the holiest Law that was in Persia, thou must not think he will perform promise with thee: He perswaded him also, that it was not a like repulse to Ochus to be denied that which he looked for, as it was for him to be turned out of all that ever he had gotten. For (said he) if it please Ochus to live as a private man, he might do it safely, and no man will trouble him; but for you who are already proclaimed King, you must of necessity make your self King, or else you cannot live.

Now besides these perswasions, the largeness of the Empire, and the fear Darius stood in of his Brother Ochus, much prevailed with him, infomuch that he flatly conspired against his Father Artaxerxes, Darius conspires against Artaxerxes. together with Tiribazus, and both of them drew many Conspirators to joyn with them. But one of the Kings Eunuchs smelling it out, ran presently and told the King all, and how they had determined suddenly to assail him, and to kill him in his Bed in the night. Artaxerxes having received this intelligence, thought it not safe to be careless in a matter of so great importance as was his Life; and yet that it would savour of too great lightness, so suddenly to believe the Eunuch, without better proof of the matter: He therefore commanded the Eunuch to keep Company still with the Conspirators, and to follow them whithersoever they went, and in the mean time he caused the wall behind his Bed to be beaten down, making a door in the place, and Tapestry Hangings to be put up before it.

When the time was come, as the Eunuch had advertized the King, that the Conspirators intended to execute their Design, Artaxerxes being laid on his bed, rose not up till he had seen every Traytor in the face that came to kill him: But when he saw them coming towards him, with their Swords drawn, he suddenly slip't under the Hangings into the inner Chamber, and shut the door after him,Artaxerxes deceives them crying Murther, Murther. The Traytors hereupon fled the [Page] same way that they came, failing of their purpose, and bad Tiribazus save himself, because he was known: so they dispersed themselves and fled. But Tiribazus was taken, and after he had slain many of the Kings Guard, fighting valiantly, yet at last one with a Dart afar off,Tiribazu [...] slain. slew him. Darius also was taken, and together with his Sons, was brought Prisoner before the King. The King referred him to be judged by his Peers: and withall, he commanded his Secretaries to set down all the Tryal in writing, together with the opinion and sentence of every one of the Judges, and to bring it to him. In conclusion, they all cast him,Darius condemned. and condemned him to dye. Then the Officers laid hold on him, and led him into a Chamber of the Prison, where the Hang-man came with a Razor in his hand, with which he used to cut mens throats who were so condemned: But when he came into the Chamber, he saw it was Darius; whereupon his heart so failed, that he durst not lay hands on him, but went out again: The Judges that were without, bad him go in and do it, unless he would have his own throat cut: Then went he in again,And executed. and took Darius by the hair, and made him hold down his head, and so cut his neck with the Rasor.

Artaxerxes being informed hereof, went and worshipped the Sun, and then turning to his Lords that were about him, he said unto them: My Lords, God be with you, and be merry at home in your Houses, and tell them that were not here, that the great God Oromazes hath taken revenge upon those that practised Treason against me. Now Darius being dead, Ochus stood in good hope to be next heir to the Crown, and the rather, through the means and assistance of his Sister Atossa: But of his legitimate Brethren,Ochus his fears he most feared Ariaspes, who was only left of all that were legitimate, and of his Bastard Brethren he feared Arsames: Not for that Ariaspes was elder than he, but because (he being of a soft and plain name) the Persians desired that he might be their King. And for Arsames, he was wise and valiant, and Ochus saw that his Father loved him dearly.

Now Ochus being subtle and malicious,His craft▪ first shewed cruelty upon Arsames, and then his Malice upon Ariaspes, his Legitimate Brother. For knowing him to be simple and plain, he daily sent some of the Kings Eunuchs to him, who carried him threatning messages, as from the King, telling him, that he determined to put him to a cruel and shameful death. These things being daily buzzed into his ears, as great secrets, did so terrifie poor Ariaspes, as that being put in despair of his life,Ariaspes kill [...] himself. he prepared a Poison, and drank it to prevent a worse Death. King Artaxerxes being informed of his Death, took it very heavily, and began to suspect the cause that made him thus destroy himself, yet, being grown very old, he neglected to search it out. But the Death of Ariaspes made him to love Arsames the better, making it to appear that he had a better opinion of him than he had of Ochus, and therefore made him privy to all his affairs.

Ochus seeing this, could no longer defer his revenge, and he therefore suborned Harpaces, Arsames murthered. the son of Tiribazus, to murther his Brother Arsames, which accordingly he accomplished. Now Artaxerxes being almost spent with age, when he heard that his dearly beloved Son Arsames was Murthered, was not able to bear it any longer, but took it so to heart, that he died of grief, having lived fourscore and fourteen years, and reigned threescore and two.

When he was dead,Artaxerxes dyes. the Persians found that he had been a good and a gracious Prince, and one that loved his People and Subjects, especially when they came to have tryal of his Successor Ochus, that passed all men living in cruelty. For when his Father was dead, he dealt so with the Chiliarchs and Eunuchs that were about him, that his Death was concealed for ten Months together; in which time he dispatched away Letters signed with the Kings Seal, into all [Page] parts of the Empire, commanding them to receive Ochus for their King: And when all men had acknowledged him, and sworn fealty to him, he then made known his Fathers death, and commanded a publick mourning to be made for him, after the Persian manner, and assumed his Fathers name, Artaxerxes: And then filled, and fouled his Court with the bloud of his Kindred and Nobles, without respect of Age or Sex: amongst whom, he caused his own Sister whose Daughter he had married,Ochus his cruelty. to be buried alive, with her heels upward: He also caused an Unkle of his, with above a hundred of his Children and Grand-children descended out of his loyns; to be put into a court, and there shot to Death with Arrows.

This Artaxerxes following herein the example of Cambyses, An excellent example. caused certain unjust Judges to be flead alive, and their skins to be hung up over the Judgment-seats, that they which sat therein, seeing what hung over their heads, might be the more careful to do Justice to his People. He also it was, who intending to make War upon Egypt, that he might have the more assistance therein from the Grecians, he sent his Ambassadours into Greece, to induce them to make a general Peace among themselves, upon these terms, that every City should from thenceforth live according to their own Laws, and should have no Garrisons amongst them. This motion all the Cities of Greece embraced, save only the Thebans, as you may see in the Life of Epaminondas.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF ALEXANDER the GREAT▪ KING, OF MACEDONIA.

[Page]

A LEXANDER, His Parentage. surnamed the Great was the Son of Philip, King of Macedonia, and of his Queen Olympias. He was born on the sixth day of our June, called by the Macedonians Lous. Upon the very same day that the Temple of Diana in Ephesus was burned down; whereupon the Priests, Magicians, and South-sayers ran about the City, crying, that some great Plague and mischief to Asia was surely born that day. Three Messengers came to King Philip, presently after he had won the City of Potidaea, upon the same day, who brought him great News, the first, that Parmenio his General, had won a notable Battel of the Illyrians: the second that his Horse had won the prize at the Olympian Games: and the third, that his Wife Olympias had brought him a Son,His Birth. that was named Alexander, born at Pella in Macedonia.

Philip being marvellous glad to hear these Newses, the South-sayers much added to his joy; assuring him, that his Son that was thus born, should be invincible. He had naturally a very fair white colour mingled with red, which chiefly appeared in his face and breast: His Skin had a marvellous sweet savour, and his breath was very sweet, which sheweth his excellent constitution. He was naturally hot and Cholerick, which made him to be addicted to drink, and hasty, and yet was chast withall. His Father was very careful of his Education, and therefote gat for him excellent Tutors, as Leonidas, which had the chiefest Government of him. Then Lysimachus, an Acarnanian: [Page] and Aristotle, His Education. the Best Philosopher of his time, to whom Philip allowed a very honourable stipend.

He delighted much in hunting divers kind of wild Beasts, and playing at the Staff. On a time while he was young, Ambassadors were sent to his Father from the King of Persia, and it fell out that Philip was in some journey out of his Kingdom. Alexander therefore intertained them familiarly, not using any childish questions to them, nor enquiring about trifling, and trivial matters, but what distance it was from one place to another, and which way they went into the higher places of Asia; His early Wisdom. Also about the King of Persia himself, how he behaved himself towards his enemies, and what power he had, &c. insomuch as they were ravished with delight to hear him, judging him to be of great Courage, and of a Noble mind, and one that was like to attempt great enterprises. When at any time news was brought him that his Father had taken some famous City, or had won some great Battel, he was no whit glad to hear it, but would say to his Play-fellows: Sirs, My Father will do all, I shall have nothing left me to Conquer with you that will be ought worth.

Upon a time Philonicus, Bucephalus broken by Alexander. a Thessalian brought a brave Horse, called Bucephalus, to sell unto king Philip, demanding thirteen Talents for him, and they went into the Field to try him: But the Horse was found to be so unruly, and churlish, that they which should have ridden him, said, that he would never be made serviceable: For he would let no man get upon his Back, nor abide any of the Gentlemens voices that were about Philip, but would yerk at them with his heels; whereupon Philip, being afraid, bad them take him away as a wild, untamable, and unprofitable Beast: which they had done accordingly, had not Alexander, that stood by, said, O Gods! what a Horse do they turn away for lack of skill, and courage to handle and break him? Philip heard what he said, but held his peace. Alexander often repeating those words, and seeming sorry that the Horse should be sent back, Philip said, Why doest thou control them that have more skill and experience than thy self; and that know better how to handle a Horse than thou doest; Alexander answered, and yet me-thinks I could handle him better than all they have done. But if thou canst do no more than they (replied Philip) what wilt thou forfet for thy folly? I am content (said Alexander) to forfeit the price of the Horse. Every one laughed to hear his answer, and the match was made between the Father and the Son. Then ran Alexander to the Horse, and took him by the Bridle, and turned him towards the Sun. It seems he had observed how mad the Horse was to see his own shadow, which was before, always before his eyes as he sturred too and fro. Then Alexander speaking gently to the Horse, and clapping him on the back with his hand, till he had left his fury and snorting, softly let fall his Cloak from him, and lightly leaped on his back, and so gat up without any danger, and holding the reins of the Bridle hard, without striking or stirring the Horse, made him to be gentle enough. And when he perceived that the fury of the Horse was calmed, he put him forward, and began to Gallop; Then he put him to his full carrier, spurring, and switching him. Philip at first, seeing his Sons confidence, began to fear lest he should catch any hurt. But when he saw him readily to turn the Horse at the end of his carrier, and shewing bravery for what he had done, all the Spectators gave a great shoot for joy: and the Father fell a weeping for joy: and when Alexander was alighted from the Horse, his Father went and kissed him, saying, O Son! thou must have a Kingdom that is meet for thee; for Macedonia is not sufficient for thee: Considering also that he was not to be rigorously dealt with, and that by gentle means and perswasions he could make him do what he would, he ever sought rather to perswade than to command him what he would have done.

[Page] Alexander in these his younger days was very mild,His mildness▪ and of a patient disposition, insomuch as being told that some of his Friends used in secret, to speak against him, he said, Regium est malè audire c [...]m benefeceris. Its a Kingly thing to hear ill, when one doth well.

King Philip being dead,He comes t [...] his Kingdom. his Son Alexander succeeded, being a Prince no less Valiant by Nature than by Education, being well instructed, and inriched with all sorts of Learning. He began his Reign in Macedonia, four hundred and seventeen years after Rome was built, being himself about twenty years old.

Upon this change of the King the neighbour Nations, whom Philip had oppressed, adventured to endeavour the recovery of their former liberty by force of Arms, the young years of Alexander giving some hope of prevailing, and his suspected severity encreasing the courage of others, who could easilier resolve to die, than to live in slavery: But Alexander gave no respite to these discontented humours;He says his Fathers Murtherers. For after revenge taken upon the Conspiratours against his Father, whom he slew upon his Tomb, and the celebration of his Funerals, he first engaged his Macedonians to him by freeing them from all exactions, and bodily slavery, other than his service in the Wars, and to others that contemned his youth, he used such austerity, and such clemency to the rest; that having calmed these neerer discontents, he presently went into Peloponnesus, and so insinuated himself amongst them, that by the Council of the States of Greece, he was chosen Captain General to manage the War against the Persians, as his Father had been before him, who was so intent upon that War, that he had sent over into Asia part of his Army under the Conduct of Parmenio, and Attalus, with order to take in some place which might secure the descent of the rest.

Upon this enterprise against the Persians was Alexander wholly busied,He intends War against Persia. his restless thoughts both sleeping and waking, presenting to him the Riches, Honour, and large Dominions which he hoped to attain thereby. Yet was he again crossed, and retarded by the Athenians, Thebans, and Lacedemonians, who had united themselves against him, hoping by the assistance of the Persians, to recover their former liberty; and they were to this, encouraged by Demosthenes, whom the Persian Gold had bribed thereunto. This unexpected rub, and loss of time was very grievous to Alexander, who was troubled that he should turn his Sword from the base and effeminate Persians, against the manly, and famous Grecians, of whose assistance in his intended Wars he had assured himself;He subdues the Grecians▪ He therefore made such expedition against them, that himself, with his Army at his heels, brought them the first news of his preparations. This celerity of his made them begin to stagger, and the Athenians, as they were the first that moved, so were they the first that fainted, and by their Ambassadours sought to pacifie him. Alexander was not long in resolving, but admitted their excuses, and made peace.

Having now quieted his Borderers on the South, he resolved also to assure himself of those Nations which lay on the North of Macedonia, And other Nations. viz. the Thracians, Triballes, Peones, Getes, Agrians, and others, who by their frequent incursions had much molested his Father; and withal those, after he had given then divers overthrows, he made peace, or brought them into his Subjection: and yet could he not find the way out of Europe.

The Thebans, which had one thousand Macedonians in Garrison in their Citadel, being impatient of slavery, endeavoured to force it; which Alexander being informed of, hastened to their succour with thirty thousand Foot, all old Souldiers, and three thousand Horse, and presenting himself before their City, he gave the Thebans time to resolve whether they would have peace or War, only demanding that they should deliver up to him the two chief Incendiaries, Phoenix and Prothytes, which they took in such scorn, that they [Page] demand Philotas, and Antipater, two of his chief Captains. This so incensed Alexander, And the Tbebans. that whilst he assailed the City before, the Macedonian Garrison did the like behind, and so breaking into the City, he slew ninety thousand of them, and sold thirty thousand more for slaves, and this he did for a terrour to the other Grecians.

Many Arguments were used by Cleadas (one of the Prisoners) to disswade him from destroying the City of Thebes, but all proved fruitless; for he razed the City, only out of his respect to learning, he pardoned all of the race of Pindarus the Poet, and set at liberty Timoclea, the Sister of Theagines, who died in the defence of the liberty of Greece against his Father Philip. This Noble Woman,A brave Example. being taken by a Thracian, and ravished, he threatned to kill her unless she would discover her Treasure to him: She led him to a Well, and told him that she had cast it therein, and when he stooped to look into the Well, she thrust him in, and stoned him to Death.

Alexander shortly after at a Common Council of Greece, being chosen General a second time against the Persians, went to visit Diogenes the Philosopher, there. Then returned into Macedonia, where, in a Town called Dios, as he was wholly taken up with thoughts of subduing Asia, there appeared to him in his Sleep the resemblance of the High Priest of Jerusalem, His Vision. who bad him be couragious and bold, and speedily with his Army to put over into Asia, promising that he would be his Conductor in the Conquest of the Persian Empire, as Alexander himself reported.

All being now quieted at home,He goes into Asia. Alexander leaving the Government of Macedon, and Greece to Antipater, in the beginning of the Spring he passed the Hellespont, and being ready to dis-imbark, he threw a Dart towards the Asian shore, as a token of defiance, commanding his Souldiers not to wast, and destroy the Country, or to burn those buildings which themselves were presently, and in future to possess. Then landed he his Army consisting of thirty two thousand Foot, and five thousand Horse, all old Souldiers, neer unto Troy, where he offered a sacrifice upon the Tomb of Achilles, his Maternal Ancestor.

But before he left his own Country,His cruelty. he put to death, without an offence given him, all his Mother in Laws Kinsmen, whom his Father had greatly advanced, not sparing such of his own as he suspected, thinking by unjust cruelty to secure himself for the present, and future: Yet the end fell out contrary to the Policy which his Ambition taught him, though well agreeing with the Justice of God:Gods Justice. For within a few years all that he had planted was rooted up; those whom he most trusted were most Traiterous: His Mother, Friends and Children fell by such another merciless Sword as his own, and all manner of confusion followed his dead Body to the Grave, and left him there.

When Darius, Darius his Pride. The King of Persia, was informed that Alexander was landed in Asia, he so much scorned the Macedonian Army, and contemned Alexander himself, that writing to him, he stiled him his Servant, and reprehended him for his presumption, and disloyalty (For Darius Intitled himself King of Kings, and Kinsman of the Gods) and withal, he wrote to his Lieutenants in the Lesser Asia, that they should take Alexander alive, whip him with Rods, and then convey him to his presence; that they should sink his Ships, and send his Macedonians prisoners beyond the Red Sea.

Notwithstanding these brags Alexander soon discovered what manner of men the Persians were: For two of Darius his Generals [Spithredates and Rhaesaces] at the River of Granick (which severs the Territories of Troy from Propontis) with a huge Army both of Horfe and Foot, sought to stop his passage, taking the higher ground, and the bank of the River to defend, which Alexander was forced to climb up unto from out of the Channel,His Victory at Granick. yet was his victory so easie, that the Persians flying, he slew twenty thousand of the Foot, and [Page] two thousand five hundred Horsemen, with the loss of twelve of his own Foot, and two and twenty of his Horsemen, which shews that the Persians were rather killed in their backs whilst they ran away, than hurt in their bosoms by resisting.

It was wisely done of Alexander to pass this River of Granick in the face of the enemy, without seeking any other place, or means to convey his men over. For having beaten the Asiaticks upon their own ground, he did thereby cut off no less of their reputation, than of their strength, leaving the partakers of such Cowards without hope of Succour.

Presently after this Victory,He wins many Cities, and Countries. he recovered Sardis; Ephesus, and the City of the Trallians, and Magnesia, all which were soon rendred to him, the Inhabitants he received with great grace, suffering them to be governed by their own Laws: and about the same time, by Parmenio, he wan Miletus, and by force took in Halicarnasseus, which because it resisted obstinately, he razed it to the ground. From thence he went into Caria, where Ada, the Queen, who had been cast out of all that she held (except the City of Alinda) by Darius his Leiutenants,The Queen of Caria Adopts him. presented her self to him, and adopted him for her Son, and Successour, which Alexander took so kindly that he left the whole Kingdom to her disposal. Then entred he into Lycia, and Pamphilia, and assured to him all the Sea-coasts, and subjecting to him Pisidia, he steared his course towards Darius vvho (as he was informed) vvas marching towards him with a marvellous great Army) by the vvay of Phrygia, and this he might the easilier do, for that his first Victory had laid under his feet all the Provinces of Asia the less, which bordered upon the Sea-coast.

Then gave he order for the setling and Government of Lycia, and Pamphilia, and so marching towards the North, he entred Celenas, seated on the River Meander, which was abandoned to him, only the Castle held out, which yet after forty days, vvas surrendred to him also: for so long time he gave them to attend succour from Darius. From Celenas, he passed on thorow Phrygia towards the Euxine Sea, till he came to the City of Gordium, somtimes the Regal City of King Midas, He cuts the Gordian Knot. vvhere he found the Gordian Knot, which when he knew not hovv to undo, he cut it asunder vvith his Svvord: For there vvas an old Prophesie vvhich promised him that could unty it, the Lordship of all Asia: vvhereupon Alexander, not respecting the manner so it vvere done, assumed to himself the fulfilling of the Prophesie by hevving it in pieces.

Novv before he left this part of Asia to go to the East,He Conquers the Islands. he took care to clear the Sea-coast on his back, and to thrust the Persians out of the Islands of Lesbos, Chio, and Coos, the charge vvhereof he committed to tvvo of his Captains, giving them such directions as he judged most meet for that service, and delivering to them fifty Talents for defraying the charges thereof: and vvithal, out of the spoil gotten by his first Victory, he sent sixty Talents more to Antipater, vvhom he had left for the Government of Macedonia and Greece. From Celenas he vvent to Ancira, standing on the same River of Sanguarius, vvhich runs through Gordium: there he mustered his Army, and so entred into Paphlagonia, vvhose Inhabitants submitted themselves to him, and thereby obtained freedom from Tribute. There he left Catus Governour vvith one Regiment of Macedonians newly come to him.

Here he heard of the Death of Memnon, Memnon dies. Darius's Lieutenant, which much encouraged him to pass on towards him: For of this one Commander he had more respect than of all the multitude assembled by Darius, and of all the Captains he had besides. Then did he travel hastily towards Cilicia, with a desire to recover the Streights thereof before Darius should arrive there. The Governour of Cilicia hearing of Alexanders hasty march, left some Companies to keep the Streights, which were indeed very defensible, and [Page] now (though too late) began to prize, and put in Execution the advice of Memnon, Good Counsel neglected. who in the beginning of the Wars, had counselled to wast all the provisions both for Man, and Horse that could not be conveyed into strong holds, and always to give ground to the Invader, till he found some such notable advantage as might secure to him the Victory. For the fury of an invading army is best broken by delays, change of diet, and want, and other inconveniences bringing, and breeding many diseases upon all Nations out of their own Country. And had Darius kept the Macedonians but a while without meat, and sleep, refusing to give or take Battel, and had wearied them with his light Horsemen (as the Parthians afterwards did the Romans) in all probability he might have saved both his life, and Estate. For it was one of the greatest encouragements given by Alexander to his Macedonians before the third, and last fatal Battel, that they were now to fight with all the strength of Persia at once.

But where God hath a purpose to destroy, wise men are taken away, and the charge of things is committed unto such as either cannot see what is for their good, or that know not how to put in execution any sound advice; the courte which Memnon had propounded, must in all liklyhood have brought the Macedonians into great straits, and stopt them at those narrow passages of Cilicia. For had Cappadocia, and Paphlagonia being wasted when Alexander was far off, and the Streights of Cilicia been defended by Arsenes with his best Souldiers, hunger would not have suffered the enemy to stay the tryal of all means for the forcing of that passage: Or if the place could not have been defended, yet might Cilicia at leasure have been throughly spoiled, that the heart of Alexanders Army should have been broken, whilest they sought out miseries by painful travel.

But Arsenes leaving a small number to defend the Streights, took the best of his Army with him to wast and spoil the Country; or rather, as it seemed, to make himself some work, under which pretence he might with honesty run the further from Alexander; And in truth he so handled the matter, that he gave cause to the Cicilians to wish for Alexanders coming, and as great cause to the Keepers of the Passage not to hinder it. For Cowards are wise in apprehending all forms of danger. These Guardians of the Streights, hearing that Arsenes hasted to joyn himself with Darius, burning down all as he went, as one despairing to defend it, began to think, that surely their General (who gave for lost the Country behind their backs) had exposed themselves to certain ruin, as men that were fit only to dull the Swords of the Macedonians; Wherefore, not being ambitious to die for their Prince and Country (which honour they saw that Arsenes himself could well forbear) they presently followed the footsteps of their General, gleaning what he had left. And thus Alexander without hazard, got, both the entrance into Cilicia, abandoned by the cowardliness of his enemies,The Streights of Cilicia taken. and also that whole Province whose minds were now alienated from the Persians through the imprudent carriage of Arsenes.

When Alexander with great speed was come to Tarsus, taking pleasure in the River Cydnus, which ran through the City, all hot as he was, he threw off his Armour, and leaped into the cold water, whereupon he grew instantly so benumb in all the Nerves of his Body, that he lost the use of his Tongue; and so far was he from hope of recovery, that nothing was expected but present Death: But one Philip a Physician, gave him a Potion, which he took, and it cured him out of hand, though Parmenio had forewarned him, that this Philip was set on work to poison him.

In the mean time Darius approached,Darius his Army. having gathered together an Army of two hundred and ninety thousand men of divers Nations (saith Q. Curtius) or of three hundred thousand Foot, and one hundred thousand Horse, (as Justine numbers them,) Or of six hundred thousand, as Plutarch relates.

[Page] The manner of his coming was rather like a Masker,The manner of his March. than a man of War; and like one that took more care to shew his Glory and Riches, than to provide for his own safety. For before his Army there were carried the holy Fire, which the Persians worshipped for their God; attended by their Priests, and after them three hundred sixty and five young men, answering to the days of the year, clothed in Skarlet. Then the Chariot of Jupiter, drawn with white Horses, with their Riders clothed in white, and carrying Rods of Gold in their hands. Next after them came the Horse of the Sun, and after him ten sumptuous Chariots Inlay'd and garnished with Gold and Silver:His Pride and Folly, and then the Vaunt Guard of their Horse, compounded of twelve several Nations, which, the better to avoid confusion, did hardly understand one anothers Language, and these, marshelled in the head of the rest, being beaten, might serve very fitly to disorder all that followed them. In the tail of these, marched the Regiment of foot stiled by the Persians, Immortal; because if any died, their place was presently supplied by others; and these were armed with chains of Gold, and theit Coats embroidered with the same, having their sleeves garnished with Pearl: Baits fit either to intice the poor Macedonians, or to perswade them that it were great incivility to cut or deface such goodly Garments.

Then marched after them fifteen thousand, more rich and glittering than the former, but apparelled like Women, and these were honoured with the Title of the Kings Kinsmen. Then came Darius himself with the Gentlemen of his Guard-robe, riding before his Chariot, which was supported by the Gods of his Nation, cast and cut in pure Gold: the head of this Chariot was set with precious Stones, with two Golden Idols, covered with an open winged Eagle of the same mettal. The hinder part being raised high, whereon Darius sat, had a covering of inestimable valew.

This Chariot of the Kings was followed with ten thousand Horsemen, having lances plated with Silver, and their heads guilt. He had for the proper Guard of his own Person, two hundred of the blood Royal: blood too Royal, and precius to be spilt in any Noble adventure, and these were backed with thirty thousand Footmen, after whom again were led four hundred spare Horses for the Kings own use. Then followed the Rereward, being led by Sisygambis, the Kings Mother, and by his Wife, drawn in glorious, and glittering Chariots, followed by a great train of Ladies on Horseback, with fifteen rich Wagons of the Kings Children, and the Wives of the Nobility, waited upon by two hundred and fifty Concubines, and a World of Nurses, and Eunuches most sumptuously apparelled: Between these, and a Company of slight Armed Slaves, was the Kings Treasure, loaden on six hundred Mules and three hundred Camels.

In this sort came this May-game King into the field, encumbred with a most unnecessary train of Sumpters, attended with Troops of divers Nations, speaking divers Languages, impossible to be well Marshalled by reason of their numbers, and for the most part so effeminate, and so rich in Gold and costly Garments, as the same could not but have encouraged the Nakedst Nation against them.

When Alexander met with these effeminate Asiaticks, Alexander beats Dartus. it may easily be guessed what a cheap Victory he had over them. Some say that he slew in this Battel sixty thousand Footmen, and ten thousand Horsemen., Q. Curtius saith, an hundred thousand Foot, with as many Horsemen, and took forty thousand Prisoners, whilest of Alexanders Army there miscarried but two hundred and eighty of all sorts, of which number some Historians cut off almost one half. He took Prisoners also Darius his Mother, Wife, Daughters, and other the Kings Children. Darius by this time found it true, that Charidemus, a banished Grecian of Athens, had told him when he made a [Page] view of his Army about Babylon, to wit, That the multitude which he had assembled of divers Nations, richly attired but poorly Armed, would be found more terrible to the Countries through which they should pass, than to the Macedonians whom they went to assail, who being all old, Well-disciplined Souldiers, imbattelled in gross Squadrons, which they called their Phalanx, well covered with Armour for defence, and furnished with advantagious Weapons for offence, would make so little account of his delicate Persians, ill Armed, and worse Disciplin'd, that except he would (having such abundance of Treasure) entertain a sufficient number of the same Grecians, and so encounter the Macedonians with men of equal courage, he would repent overlate, as taught by the miserable success like to follow.

But so unpleasing was this discourse to Darius, (who used to hear nothing but his own praises) that he caused this poor Grecian to be presently slain,Darius his cruelty. who whilst he was under the Tormentors hand, said, to the King, that Alexander, against whom he had given this good counsel, should certainly revenge his Death,and Folly. and deservedly punish Darius for refusing this advise. Darius likewise slighted the counsel given him by the Grecian Souldiers that served under him, who intreated him not to fight in those streight places where Alexander could bring as many hands to fight as Darius could: and these old Blades, when Darius was overthrown with all his cowardly, and confused Rabble, under their Captain Amyntas, held firm, and made a brave retreat in despite of the vanquishers.

These Grecians also after their retreat, advised Darius to draw back his Army into the plains of Mesopotamia, where he might have environed the Macedonians on all sides with his multitudes; they counselled him also to divide his huge Army into parts, and not to cast his Empire upon one Battel, &c. But this advise was so contrary to the cowardly spirits of the Persians, that they perswaded Darius to environ these Greeks with his Army, and to cut them in pieces as Traitors. But Darius was so infatuated that he would needs fight with Alexander in such a streight place, neer unto the City of Issus, where he could bring no more hands to fight than Alexander could (who by the advice of Parmenio staid there as in a place of advantage) whereby he was utterly overthrown, his Treasure lost, his Wife, Mother, and Children (whom the Grecians had perswaded him to leave in Babylon) taken Prisoners, and all their train of Ladies spoiled of their rich Garments, Jewels, and Honour. Indeed the Queen, with her Daughters, who had the good hap to be brought to Alexanders presence, were entertained with all respect due unto them, their Honours preserved, and their Jewels, and rich Garments restored; and though the Queen was a most beautiful Lady, and her Daughters of excellent features,Alexanders Chastity. yet Alexander mastered his affections towards them all: Only he embraced the Wife of the Valiant Memnon, who was lately dead, she being taken by Parmenio, as she fled from Damascus, at which time the Daughters of Ochus, who reigned before Darius, and the Wives and Children of almost all the Nobility of Persia, fell into Captivity, together with the Treasure of Darius (not taken at Issus) was seized upon, amounting to six thousand and two hundred Talents in ready Coin, and in Bullion, five hundred Talents, with a world of Riches besides.

Parmenio also in his Letter to Alexander sent him word, that amongst other things, he had taken at Damascus three hundred twenty nine of the Kings Women, which were Skilful in Musick; forty six Weavers, or Knitters of Crowns; Pastry Women two hundred seventy seven; Cook Maids twenty nine; White-meat-makers thirteen; Makers of drinking Cups seventeen; Wine-cellar men seventy; Apothecaries, and Confectioners forty. Thirty thousand Men, and seven thousand Camels.

[Page] Darius himself leaving his Brother dead (casting the Crown from his head) with divers others of his chief Captains,Darius flies. hardly escaped by flight.

After this overthrow given to Darius, all Phoenicia (the City of Tyre excepted) yielded unto Alexander, who made Permenio Governour of it. Also Aradus, Zidon, and Biblos, which were Maritine Cities of great importance, of which one Strato was King (but hated of his People) submitted unto Alexander: Alexanders great success. Yea, good success attended him every where. For Antigonus, who was his Lieutenant in Asia the Less, overthew the Cappadocians, Paphlagonians, and others lately revolted. Aristodemus also, who was Darius his Admiral, had his Fleet partly taken, and partly drowned by the Macedonians. Likewise the Lacedemonians, who rose up against Antipater, were beaten: and four thousand of those Greeks, that made so brave a retreat at the last Battel, being led by Amyntas into Egypt, intending to hold it for themselves, were there slain: for the time to divide Kingdoms was not yet come.

Alexander to honour his beloved Ephestion, gave him power to dispose of the Kingdom of Zidon, and Ephestion, to shew his gratitude, offered to bestow it upon his Host with whom he quartered;A notable Example. But the Man, not being of the Kingly Race, refused it, saying, It is not our Country fashion, that any should be king, but such as are of the Kingly Line, And such an one (saith he) lives hard by, a good, and a wise man, but very poor, and one that lives by his hard labour. Then did Ephestion (taking Kingly apparrel along with him) go to this poor Man, and saluted him King, bidding him, wash off his dirt, and put off his rags, and put on that Royal Apparel; The poor Mans name was Abdolominus, who thought he had been in a dream, but being by the standers by, washed, and adorned, Ephestion led him into the Pallace, saying, When thou sittest on thy Throne, and hast power over the lives of all thy Subjects, forget not thy former condition. Alexander hearing of it, sent for him, and asked him, with what pacience, he, being of so Noble an Extraction, could bear his former poverty? To whom Abdolominus answered; I pray God that I may bear the Kingdom with the same mind. For (said he) these hands have provided for my necessities, and as I had nothing, so I wanted nothing.

While Alexander staid in those parts,Darius desires Peace, which Alexander rejected. he received a Letter from Darius, wherein he desired to ransom his Mother, Wife, and Children, with some other conditions of Peace, but such as rather became a Conqueror, than one who had been so shamefully beaten, not vouchsafing in the Endorsement to give Alexander the Title of King. Alexander disdained his offers, and sent him word, that he was not only a King, but the King of Darius himself.

When Alexander came neer the City of Tyre, he received from them the present of a Golden Crown, and great store of Victuals, with some other things, which he took very thankfully, sending them word, that he desired to offer a Sacrifice to Hercules, the Protector of their City, from whom he was descended. The Tyrians, not liking his presence within their Walls, returned answer, that the Temple of Hercules, was seated where the old City stood;Tyre attempted. but Alexander was resolved to enter Tyre by force, though in most mens Judgments the City was impregnable; for the Island whereon it was built, was eight hundred furlongs from the Land, yet with the labor of many hands, having great store of Stone from old Tyre, and Timber sufficient from Libanus, he stopped up the passage between the Island and the Main, being more than once carried away by Storms, and sometimes fired by the Tyrians, and taken yet with the help of his Navy, he overcame all difficulties, and prevailed, having spent seven moneths in that attempt. The Tyrians in the beginning of the Siege, had barbarously drowned some Messengers sent by Alexander to perswade them to yield, in respect whereof, and of his great loss of time and men,Alexanders rigor. he put eight thousand to the Sword, [Page] and caused two thousand of those that had escaped the first fury, to be hanged on Crosses upon the Sea-shore, and reserved for slaves thirteen thousand, some say thirty thousand, and many more of them had died, if the Zidonians, that served Alexander, had not conveyed great numbers of them by shipping to their own City. Alexander gave the Government of this Territory to Philotas, the Son of Parmenio, Ephestion had the charge of the Fleet, and was commanded to meet Alexander at Gaza in the way to Egypt.

Whilst Alexander lay at the Siege of Tyrus, he sent to Jaddus, the High Priest at Jerusalem, demanding of him supplies, and provisions for his Army; and withal, such Tribute as they formerly paid to Darius: But when Jaddus answered, that he was tyed by a former Oath of Allegiance to Darius, from which he could not be free so long as Darius lived: Alexander growing wroth at this answer, swore, that as soon as he had taken Tyrus, he would march against Jerusalem.

At the same time also came Sanballat, the Cuthaean to Alexander; who, haing forsaken Darius, brought with him eight thousand men: Him did Alexander receive very graciously; Whereupon he asked leave of him to build a Temple upon his own Land, and to make high Priest thereof, his Son in Law, Manasses, who was Brother to Jaddus, the High Prist at Jerusalem; and having obtained leave, because he now grew old, he fell presently to work, and built a Temple, and made Manasses High Priest of it, thinking hereby to leave a great Honour to the Posterity of his Daughter.

In the mean while Darius sends again to Alexander, setting before him all difficulties he should meet with in his passing on to the East,Darius his second message. laying the loss of the late Battel to the streightness of the place: He bids him to consider how impossible it was for him to pass the Rivers of Euphrates, Tygris, Araxes, &c. with all such other dreadful things as he thought might discourage him. Moreover he profered to him all the Kingdoms which lay between the River Halis, and the Hellespont, as a Dower with his beloveed Daughter:Rejected by Alexander. But Alexander rejected all, saying, That he proferred him nothing but what already was his own, and what Victory, and his Virtue had possessed him of. That he was in a capacity to give conditions, and not to receive any: and that having passed the Sea it self, he disdained to think of resistance in transporting his Army over Rivers. Indeed Parmenio, who was now old, and full of Honour and Riches, told the King, that if he were Alexander he would embrace the offers of Darius; to which Alexander answered, that so would he if he were Parmenio.

Then did Alexander march on towards Egypt, and when he came to Gaza,Gaza besieged.Getes the Governour, a faithful servant to Darius, shut the Gates against him, and defended the Town with a Noble Resolution, at the Siege whereof Alexander received a wound in the shoulder which was dangerous, and a blow on his Leg with a stone. He found better men in this place than he had done in the former Battels: For he left so many of his Macedonians buried in the Sands of Gaza, that he was fain to send for a new supply into Greece. Here it was that Alexander began to shew his cruelty:and taken. For after he had taken Gaza by assault, and Getes the Governour, who was weakened with divers wounds, and who never gave ground to the Assailants,Alexanders cruelty. Alexander caused holes to be bored through his feet, and himself to be dragged about the streets whilst he was yet alive, who being as Valiant a man as himself, scorned to ask him either for life, or the mitigation of his Torments.

From Gaza Alexander led his Army towards Jerusalem, He goes to Jerusalem. a City for the Antiquity, and great fame thereof, well known unto him; while he [Page] lay before Tyre, he had sent for some supplies thither, which Jaddus the High Priest, being Subject, and Sworn to Darius, had refused him. The Jews therefore fearing revenge, and unable to resist, committed the care of their Lives and Estates to Jaddus, who had recourse to God by Supplications and Sacrifices for the Common safety; and was by him warned in a Dream that he should make Holy-day in the City, and set the Gates wide open, and that he and the rest of the Priests, every one in his Priestly Raiment, and the People all clothed in white, should go forth and meet Alexander; and accordingly he Issued out of the City, arrayed in his Pontifical Robes, to wit, an upper garment of Purple, Embroidered with Gold, with his Mitre, and the Plate of Gold, wherein was engraved the Name of God, the Priests and Levites also in their rich Ornaments, and the People in White Garments, in a manner so unusual, stately, and grave, as Alexander greatly admired it; and when he came neer to the High Priest,and Worships the High Priest. he fell to the ground before him, as reverencing the Name of God, and when Parmenio reproved him for it, Alexander told him, that in Dios, a City of Macedonia, his mind being busied about the Conquest of Asia, His Vision. he saw in his sleep such a Person as Jaddus, and so apparelled, by whom he was encouraged to pursue his purpose, with assurance of Victory; and now beholding with his bodily eyes him who before was only represented to his fancy, he was so exceedingly pleased, and encouraged, as (contrary to the expectation of the Phaenicians, who hoped to have sackt,His favour to the Jews. and destroyed Jerusalem) he gave the Jews all, and more than all that they desired; During his abode there, Jaddus shewed him the Prophesie of Daniel, wherein he saw himself; and his Conquest of Persia so directly pointed at, as that nothing from thenceforth could either affright, or discourage him therein.

The next day Alexander assembled the People, and bad them ask what they would of him: But they asked nothing but that they might live according to the Laws of their own Country, and that every seventh year (vvherein they were to have no harvest) they might be exempted from paying any Tribute, all which he granted. And when they asked further, that he would suffer the Jews, vvhich dwelt in the Countries of Babylon, and Media, to live according to their own Rites and Laws, he answered that he vvould satisfie their desires in that point also, so soon as he should get those Countries into his power. And vvhen he told them, that if any of them vvould follovv him in his Wars, they should use their own Rites vvheresoever they came, many listed themselves to serve him.

From Jerusalem Alexander turned again towards Egypt, Egypt delivered to him. and entring into it, Astaces, vvho vvas Darius's Lieutenant, received him, and delivered into his hands, Memphis, vvith eight hundred Talents of Treasure, and all other the Kings Riches; and vvhen Alexander had set things in order in Egypt, he began to affect a Deity, at the Temple of Jupiter Hammon, so foolish had prosperity made him. He vvas to pass over dangerous and dry Sands, vvhere, vvhen the Water vvhich he brought on his Camels backs vvas spent, he must needs have perished, had not an extraordinary shower of Rain fallen, just vvhen his Army vvas in extream despair.Zach. 14. 18. Indeed it nevever Rains in Egypt; but the purposes of Almighty God are secret, and he bringeth to pass vvhatsoever pleaseth him. Its said also that vvhen he had lost his vvay in those vast Desarts, a flight of Crows flew before his Army, making sometimes more, sometimes less hast, till they had guided him over those pathless Sands to Jupiters Temple.

When Alexander came neer the place,His Pride. he sent some of his Parasites to corrupt the Priests attending the Oracle, that their answer might be given in all things according to his mad ambition, vvho affected to be accounted [Page] the Son of Jupiter: and accordingly he was saluted Jupiters Son, by the Devils Prophet, for which he was richly rewarded, and presently a rumour was spread abroad, that Jupiter had owned him for his Child: and the better to confirm his followers in the belief of his Deity, he suborned the Priests to give answer to such as consulted with the Oracle, that it would be very pleasing to Jupiter to Honour Alexander as his Son. But this is certain, and very observable, that at Christs coming, and at the first preaching of the Gospel,The power of the Gospel. the Devil in this, and in all other his Oracles became speechless.

From the Temple of Hammon, Alexander returned to Memphis, where among many other learned men, he heard the Philosopher Psammones, who understanding that he affected the Title of Jupiters Son, told him, that God was the Father King of all men: and, refining the Pride of this haughty King, he brought him to acknowledg, that God was the Father of all mortal men, but that he acknowledgeth none for his Children, save good men.

The charge of the several Provinces of Egypt, Alexander gave to several Governours, following therein the Rules of his Master Aristotle, that a great Dominion should not be continued in the hands of any one man; Then gave he order for the building of Alexandria upon the most Westernly branch of Nilus; Alexandria built. and thus having setled (as he could) the State of Egypt, with the Kingdoms of the Lesser Asia, Phoenicia, and Syria, he Conducted his Army towards Euphrates. He passeth Euphrates, which passage (though the same was committed to Mazeus to be defended by him) yet did he abandon it, and Alexander without resistance, passed it. From thence he marched towards Tygris, a River, for the swiftness thereof, called by the Persians, The Arrow: here might Darius easily have repelled him; for the violent course of the stream was such, as it drave before it many weighty stones, and those that moved not, but lay in the bottom were so round, and smooth by continual rolling, that no man was able to fight upon so slippery a standing: Nor were the Macedonian Footmen able to wade through the River, otherwise than by joyning their hands, and interlacing their Arms each in others, making thereby one intire, and weighty Body to resist the impetuousness of the stream; and besides this; the Channel was so deep towards the Eastern Shore,And Tygris. where Darius should have opposed him, that the Footmen were enforced to lift their Bows, Arrows, and Darts over their Heads to keep them from being made unserviceable by the Water. Indeed it cannot be denied, that as all Estates of the World, by the surfeit of misgovernment, have been subject to many grievous, and sometimes, mortal diseases: So had the Empire of Persia at this time brought it self into a burning Feavour, and thereby became frantick, and without understanding, foreshewing manifestly the death, and dissolution thereof.

But Alexander had now recovered the Eastern Shore of Tygris without any opposition but what the Nature of the River made, where Mazeus, who had the charge to defend the banks, both of Euphrates, and it, presented himself to the Macedonians, being attended with certain Troops of Horsemen, as if with uneven forces, he durst have charged them upon even ground, when as with a multitude far exceeding them he forsook those advantages which no valour of the enemy could easily have overcome. But its commonly seen that timorous and cowardly Persons do ever follow those ways, Base cowardize. and counsels, whereof the opportunity is already lost.

Its true, that he sets all provisions on fire wherewith the Macedonians might be assisted in their passage over Tygris, thinking thereby greatly to have distressed them: but the execution of good counsel is fruitless, when unseasonable. For now was Alexander so well furnished with carriages, that no conveniences were wanting to the Army which he conducted. Those things also which Mazeus now sought to destroy, Alexander being in [Page] sight,Darius his new Army. by his Horsemen, saved and recovered them. This Mazeus might have done some days before at good leasure; yea, at this time he might have done it with so great a strength of Horsemen, as the Macedonians might not have dared to pursue, leaving the Body of their Foot out of sight, and so far behind.

Darius upon Alexanders first return out of Egypt, had assembled all those Forces which the Countries next to him could afford; and now also were the Arians, Scythians, Indians, and other Nations come to him. Nations (saith Curtius) that rather served to make up a number, than to make resistance. Some reckon them to amount to the number of ten hundred thousand Foot, and four hundred thousand Horse, besides armed Chariots, and some few Elephants. Curtius numbers them but two hundred thousand Foot, and about fifty thousand Horse, which is more probable: And yet seeing Darius had more confidence in the number, than in the Valour of his Souldiers, probably he had brought together some three or four hundred thousand of all sorts, with which, he hoped in those fair plains of Assyria, to have overborn the small number of the invading Army. But its most true, That in every Battel skil and practice do more towards attaining the Victory, than multitudes, and rude audacity.

Whilest Alexander rested,An Eclipse frightens the Macedonians. and refreshed his Army after their hard passage over Tygris, their happened an Eclipse of the Moon, at which the Macedonians (being ignorant of the cause, and reason of it) were much troubled; taking it as a certain presage of their ruin and destruction, insomuch as they began not only to murmur, but to speak boldly, that to satisfie the ambition of one man, and of such a one as disdained Philip for his Father, and would needs be called the Son of Jupiter, they should all perish: For he enforced them, not only to War against a world of enemies, but against Rivers, Mountains, and the Heavens themselves.

Hereupon Alexander, who was now ready to advance, made an halt, and to quiet the minds of the multitude, he led before him the Aegyptian Astrologers, that by them the Souldiers might be assured that this Eclipse of the Moon, was a sure presage of his good success. But they never informed them that it came to pass by natural causes, but reserved that as a secret fit to be kept among themselves. These Astrologers gave no other reason for it than this, That the Grecians were under the Aspect of the Sun, and the Persians under that of the Moon, and therefore the Moon losing her light, did foreshew that the state of Persia was now in danger of falling, and their Glory of being obscured. This being noised through all the Army, every man was satisfied, and quieted, and their courage redoubled.

As Alexander drew near the Persian Army, certain Letters were intercepted, written by Darius to the Grecians, proffering and promising them a great sum of money, if they would either kill or betray Alexander. But these, by the advice of Parmenio, were suppressed.

About this time also Darius his beautiful Wife,Darius his Wife died. being oppressed with sorrow, and wearied with travel, died: which accident Alexander seemed to bewail no less then Darius: who, upon the first report of it, suspected, that some dishonorable violence had been offered to her; but being satisfied by an Eunuch of his own that attended her, of Alexanders kind, and Kingly respect towards her from the very time of her being taken, he prayed the immortal Gods, that if they had decreed to set a new Master over the Persian Empire, that then it would please them to confer it on so just & chast an enemy as was Alexander, to whom, once more before the last tryal by Battel, he offered these conditions of peace.

That if he would marry his Daughter,Proposals to Alexander. he would deliver, and resign up to him all Asia the less, with Egypt, and all those Kingdoms between the Phaenician Sea and the River Euphrates. That he would pay him for the Ransom of his Mother, [Page] and other Daughters, thirty thousand Talents, and that for performance thereof he would leave his Son Ochus in Hostage; and they sought by sundry Arguments to perswade Alexander to accept hereof. Alexander causing the Ambassadors to withdraw, advised with his Councel, yet heard no man speak but Parmenio, who was the very right hand of his good Fortune, and he perswaded him to accept of such fair conditions: He told him, that the Empire between Euphrates and the Hellespont, was a large addition to Macedonia: That the retaining of those Persian Prisoners was a great cumber to him; and that the Treasure offered for them was of far better use than their Persons, with divers other Arguments, yet Alexander, rejected all; though it was very probable, that if he had followed his advice, and set bounds to his ambition within those limits, he might have been as famous for his virtue, as he was for his great successes, and might have left a successor of fit age to have enjoyed his estate, which afterwards, indeed he much enlarged, rather to the greatning of others than himself, who to assure themselves of what they had Usurped, left not one of his issue alive within a few years after. Besides, Alexander by going so far into the East, left behind him the reputation which he brought with him out of Macedonia, of a just and prudent Prince: A Prince temperate, advised, and grateful; and learned by abundance of prosperity, to be a lover of Wine, of Flatterers, and of extream cruelty.

But the Persian Ambassadors waited for their answer,Alexanders. answer. which was to this effect: that what curtesies soever he had bestowed upon the Wife, and Children of Darius, proceeded from his own natural clemency, and magnanimity, without all respect to their Master, but thanks to an enemy was improper: That he made no Wars against adversity, but against those that resisted him: Not against Women, and Children, but against armed enemies: And also that by the reiterated practices of Darius, to corrupt his Souldiers, and by great sums of money, to debauch his Friends to attempt something against his Person, he had reason to doubt whether the peace offered were really intended, yet could he not (were it true and faithful) resolve in hast to accept of it, seeing Darius had Warred against him, not as a King, vvith Royal and over forces, but as a Traytor, by secret, and base practices. Besides, the Territories which he offered him were already his own; and if Darius, could beat him back again over Euphrates, he would then believe that he offered him something that was in his power to give: Otherwise he propounded to himself, as a reward of his enterprizes, all those Kingdoms which Darius as yet had in his possession; wherein, vvhether he was abused by his own hopes or no, the Battel vvhich he meant to fight the day following, should determine. And in conclusion, he told them, that he came into Asia, to give Kingdoms, and not to receive them: That the Heavens could not hold two Suns, and therefore if Darius could be content to acknowledg Alexander his Superiour, he might perchance be perswaded to give him condition fit for a second Person,His Ambition. and an Inferiour.

The Ambassaders being returned with this answer, Darius prepares to fight, and sent Mazeus to defend a Pass, which yet he never dared so much as to hazzard. Alexander consulting with his Captains, Parmenio, perswaded him to force the Camp of Darius by night, that the multitudes of his enemies might not affright his Macedonians, being comparatively but a few. But Alexander replied, that he scorned to steal a Victory, His Valour. and resolved to bring with him Daylight to witness his Valour. Indeed the success commended Alexanders resolution, though the Counsel given by Parmenio was more sound. Yet when he came to view the multitude of his enemies, he began to stagger, and entrenched himself upon a Ground of advantage, which foolishly the Persians had abandoned. And when as Darius, for fear of a Camizado, had stood with his men in Armour all the day, and forborn all sleep in the Night; Alexander on the contrary, gave his men rest, and [Page] store of food, knowing, that Souldiers do better stand to it in fight, if they have their bellies full of meat and drink: for hunger within, fights more eagerly than steel without.

The numbers which Alexander had,They prepare to fight. were about forty thousand Foot, and seven thousand Horse, which were of the Europaean Army: And besides these, he had Aegyptians, Syrians, Judaeans, and Arabians which followed him out of those Countries. He used but a short speech to his Souldiers to encourage them, neither need he; For one Victory begets another, and puts courage into the Conquerors, and taketh away spirits from those that have been beaten.

Some make large descriptions of this Battel,A Battel. fought at Gaugamela, but in conclusion they tell us but of three hundred of Alexanders men that were slain, and some say less; but of the Persians there fell forty thousand: But what can we judg of this great encounter, other than (as in the two former Battels at Granick, and in Cilicia) that the Persians, upon the first charge, ran away, and that the Macedonians pursued them. For if that every man whom Darius brought into the Field, had but cast a Dart, or a Stone, the Macedonians could not have bought the Empire of the East at so easie a rate, as six or seven hundred in three such notorious Battels. Certainly if Darius had fought with Alexander upon the Banks of Euphrates, and had Armed but fifty or sixty thousand of this great multitude, only with Spades (for most of his men were fit for no other Weapon) it had been impossible for Alexander to have passed that River so easily, much less the River of Tygris. Darius beaten. But as a man, whose Empire God was putting a Period to, he abandoned all places of advantage, and suffered Alexander to enter so far into the bowels of his Kingdom, as all hope and possibility of escaping by retreat being taken from the Macedonians, they were put to the choise, either to Die or Conquer, to which Election Darius could no way constrain his men, seeing they had many large Regions to run into from their Invaders.

Darius, and flies. after the rout of his Army, fled to Arbela that Night, better attended in his flight than in the fight, and to them that fled with him, he propounded his purpose of retreating into Media, perswading them that the Macedonians, who were greedy of spoil and riches, would rather attempt Babylon, Susa, and other Cities filled with Treasure, than to pursue the vanquished. This miserable resolution his Nobility rather obeyed, than approved.

Soon after the departure of Darius, Arbela taken and much Treasure. came Alexander to Arbela, vvhich, with a great mass of Treasure, and many Princely Ornaments, was surrendred to him. For the fear which accompanied Darius, took nothing with it but shame, and dishonour. He that had been twice beaten before, should have sent his Treasure into Media rather than to have brought it to Arbela, so neer the place where he intended to wait the coming of his enemy. If he had been victorious, he might have brought it back at leasure: But being overcome, he knew it impossible to drive Mules and Camels loaden with Gold, from the pursuing Enemy, seeing himself, at the overthrow which he had in Cilicia, cast the Crown from his head, to run away the lighter: But its easier to reprehend, than to amend what is past.

From Arbela, Babylon taken. Alexander marched towards Babylon, where Mazeus, in whom Darius had most confidence, rendred to him, himself, his Children, and the City. Also the Captain of the Castle where the Treasure was kept; strewed the Streets with Flowers, burnt Frankincense upon the Silver Altars, as Alexander passed by, and delivered to him whatsoever was committed to his trust. The Magi also, who were the Chaldean Astrologers, followed this Captain to entertain their new King: After these, came the Babylonian Horsemen, infinitely rich in attire, but exceeding poor in Warlike furniture. Between these and himself, Alexander caused his Macedonian Footmen to march. When he entred the Castle he admired the Glory thereof, and [Page] the abundance of Treasure which he found therein, amounting to fifty thousand Talents of Silver uncoined. In this City, rich in all things, but most of all in voluptuous pleasures, the King rested himself and his vvhole Army thirty four days, spending that time in Banquetting, and in all sorts of effeminate exercises, which so much softned the minds of the Macedonians, not acquainted till now with such delicacies, as the severe Discipline of War, which taught them to endure hunger and thirst, painful travel, and hard lodging, began rather to be forgotten than neglected. Alexander, as he was rowed upon a Lake neer Babylon in his Gally, a sudden tempest arising blew off his Hat, and Crown fastened upon it, into the Lake, whereupon one of the Marriners, leaping into the vvater, swam, and fetched it to him, and to keep it the drier, he put it upon his own head. Alexander rewarded him with a Talent for saving his Crown;Base cruelty. but vvithal, caused his Head to be cut off, for presuming to put his Crown upon it.

During his abode here, Alexander instituted those Regiments consisting of a thousand Souldiers, appointing Colonels over them, who thereupon were called Chiliarks. This new order Alexander brought in, vvas to honour those Captains, which were found by certain Judges, to have deserved best in the late War.

While Alexander vvas yet at Babylon, there came to him a great supply out of Europe. For Antipater sent him six thousand Foot, and five hundred Hore out of Macedonia; and of the Thracians three thousand Foot, and as many Horse, and out of Greece four thousand, and four hundred Horse, by vvhich his Army vvas greatly strengthened. For those that were infected with the pleasures of Babylon, could hardly be brought again to change their soft beds for hard boards, and the cold ground.

Alexander left the City and Castle of Babylon, with the Territories adjoyning, in charge with three of his own Captains, Agathon, Minetus, and Apolidorus, leaving a thousand Talents to supply their wants: But to grace Mazeus, who delivered up the City to him, he gave him the Title of his Lieutenant General, and took along with him Bagistines, who surrendred the Castle to him; and having distributed to every Souldier a part of the Treasure, he left Babylon and entred into the Province of Satrapene, marching from thence towards Susa in Persia, situated on the River Euleus, which City vvas sometime Governed by the Prophet Daniel. Here Abulites, Susa taken. the Governour of this famous City, gave it up to the Conquerour, with fifty thousand Talents of Silver in Bullion, and twelve Elephants for the War, with all other the Treasure of Darius there; such as the Persian Kings had for a long time heaped up together, leaving it from Father to Son; all which in one hour came into his hands who never cared for it. In this sort did those Vassals of Fortune; those lovers of the Kings prosperity, not of his Person, purchase their own peace, and safety with their Masters Treasure; and herein was Alexander well advised, that whatsoever Titles he gave to the Persians, yet he left all places of importance in trust vvith his own Captains, as Babylon, Susa, Persepolis, with other Cities, and Provinces that were Conquered by him: for had Darius but beaten the Macedonians in one Battel, all the Persian Nobility would have turned again to their natural Lord.

Whilest Alexander was ransacking Arbela, Gross folly. Mazeus might have furnished Darius from Babylon; and whilest he stayed those thirty four days at Babylon, Abulites might have holpen him from Susa: and whilest he was Feasting, and Frolicking there; Teridates from Persepolis might fully have supplied him: for the chiefest bulk of his Treasure was laid up in that City: But benefits bind not the ambitious but the honest; for those that are selfish, do in all changes, consult only the conservation of their own greatness.

The Government of Susa, with the Castle and treasure, Alexander committed [Page] to his own Macedonians, making Abulites, who rendred it to him, his Lieutenant, as he had done Mazeus before, giving them Honourable Titles, but neither trust nor power. For he left three thousand old Souldiers to Garrison that City, and with them, the Mother and Children of Darius to repose themselves there.

From Susa Alexander marched with his Army towards Persepolis; Alexander beaten. but when he sought to pass those Mountains that sunder Susiana and Persia, he was soundly beaten by Ariobarzanes, who defended those Streights against him, called Pilae Persidis, and after the loss of many of his Macedonians, he was forced to save himself by retreat, causing his Foot to march close together, and to cover themselves with their Targets, from the Stones that were tumbled upon them from the Mountain-tops. Yet in the end, he found out another passage, which was discovered to him by a Lycian that lived in that Countrey, and thereby, coming suddenly upon Ariobarzanes, who now was enforced to fight upon even ground, he overthrew him, who from thence fled to Persepolis: But the Citizens refusing to admit him, he returned, and gave a second charge upon the Macedonians, in which he was slain.

Many Greeks (for Authors agree not upon their number) having been taken Prisoners by the Persians, presented themselves here to Alexander. Barbarons cruelty. These had the Barbarians so maimed, by cutting off their Hands, Ears, Noses, and other Members, as that they could not have been known to their own Countrey men, but by their Language. To each of these Alexander gave three hundred Crowns, with new Garments, and such Lands as they liked to live upon.

Tiridates, one of Darius his false hearted Grandees, hearing of Alexander's approach to Persepolis, made him know that Persepolis was ready to receive him, and intreated him to double his pace, because there was a determination amongst the People to Plunder the Kings Treasury.Persepolis taken. This City was forsaken by many of her Inhabitants upon Alexanders arrival, and they that staid, followed the worst Counsel. For the City was given up to the Liberty of the Souldiers, to spoil and kill at their pleasure. There was no place in the world at that time, which, if it had been lain in the balance with Persepolis, would have weighed it down. Indeed, Babylon and Susa were very rich, but in Persepolis lay the bulk, and greatest store of the riches of Persia. For after the spoil that had been made, of money, curious Plate, Bullion, Images of Gold and Silver, and other Jewels, there remained to Alexander himself, one hundred and twenty thousand Talents, and as much other Treasure as twenty thousand Mules, and ten thousand Camels could carry away; much whereof had been reserved there from the dayes of Cyrus. Here it was that Alexander, setting himself down upon Darius his Throne, it was so high that his feet could not reach the ground; whereupon one of his Attendants brought him a little Table, and set it under his feet. One of Darius's Eunuchs standing by, sighed, and wept grievously, which Alexander taking notice of, asked him the reason of it? the Eunuch answered, I weep to see a Table that was so highly prized by my Master Darius, now to be made thy foot-stool. Here he left the same number of three thousand Macedonians, in Persepolis, as he had done in Susa, and gave the same formal honour to the Traitor Tiridates, as he had done to Abulites; but he committed the charge of the place to Nicarides, a Creature of his own.

The Body of his Army he left there for thirty dayes,A foolish enterprize. and the care of Parmenio and Craterus, and with a thousand Horse, and certain chosen Bands of Foot, he would needs view in the Winter time, those parts of Persia which now were covered with Snow: a fruitless and foolish enterprize. Some speak it in his praise, that when his Souldiers cryed out against him, because of the extrem Frost and Snow, through which they could not make way but with [Page] great difficulty, that Alexander forsook his Horse, and marched on foot before them: But what can be more ridiculous, than for a man to bring other men into extremity, thereby to shew how well himself can endure it; being his walking on foot did no oherwise take off their weariness that followed him, than his sometime forbearing to drink, did quench their thirst that could less endure it.

Alexander being returned to Persepolis, Alexander turns Drunkard. those Historians that were most enamoured of his Virtues, complain, that the opinion of his Valour, of his Liberality, of his Clemency towards the vanquished, and all other his Noble conditions, were drowned in Drink. That he smothered in his carousing cups all the reputation of his former actions, and that by descending as it were frow the awful Throne of the greatest King, into the company and familiarity of the basest Harlots; He began to be despised both of his own, and of all other Nations. For when he was enflamed with Wine, and being perswaded by the infamous Strumpet Thais, he caused the most sumptuous, and goodly Castle and City of Persepolis to be consumed with fire,Persepolis burnt. notwithstanding all the Arguments that Parmenio could use to the contrary, who told him, that it was a dishonour to destroy those things by the perswasion of others, which by his proper virtue and force he obtained: and that it would be a certain evidence to the Asiaticks, to think hardly of him, and thereby alienate their hearts from him. For they might well believe, that he which demolished the goodliest Ornaments they had, meant nothing less, than after such vastations, to hold the possession of them.

About this time Alexander received another supply of Souldiers out of Cilica, Darius his last Army. and advanced to find out Darius in Media. Darius had there formed his fourth, and last Army, which he meant to have encreased in Bactria, had he not heard of Alexander's coming on, with whom (trusting to his present numbers, which yet were but thirty or forty thousand) he intended once again to try what he might do against him. He therefore called together his Captains and Commanders, and propounded his resolution to them, who, despairing of good success, stood for a while silent: But at last Artabazus, one of his eldest men of War, who had sometime lived with King Philip the Father of Alexander, brake the silence, protesting that he could never be beaten by any adversity of the Kings, from the Faith that he had ever ought him, with firm confidence that all the rest were of the same mind, whereof they likewise assured Darius, by the like protestation, and so they approved of the Kings resolution.The Treason of Bessus. Two onely, and they the greatest, to wit, Naburzanes, and Bessus, who was Governour of Bactria, had conspired against their Master, and therefore advised the King to lay a new foundation for the War, and to pursue it for the present by some such person against whom, neither the Gods, nor Fortune had in all things declared themselves to be an enemy.

This preamble Naburzanes used, and in conclusion, advised the election of his fellow Traitor Bessus, with promise that when the War should be ended, the Empire should be again restored to Darius. The King, swoln with disdain, pressed towards Naburzanes, to have slain him; but Bessus and the Bactrians, whom he commanded, being more in number than the rest, with-held him. Hereupon Naburzanes withdrew himself, and Bessus followed him, making their Quarters apart from the rest of the Army. Artabazus, the Kings faithful Servant, perswaded him to be advised, and to comply for the time, the rather because Alexander was at hand, and that he would at least make shew of forgetting the offence: which the King (being of a gentle Disposition) easily yielded to. Then came Bessus to the King, and made his submission: But Patron, The fidelity of the Greeks. who commanded a Brigade of four thousand Greeks, which had in all the former Battels served Darius faithfully, and had alwayes made their retreat in despite of the Macedonians, offered himself to Darius, to guard his Person, protesting against the Treason of Bessus, (But God had otherwise determined[Page]of the Empire, and therefore so sar was the King infatuated, that be ever rejected their Counsel from the beginning of the War, who were most faithful to him.) And now hearkened to Bessus, who told him, that the Greeks, with Patron their Captain, were corrupted by Alexander, and practiced the division of his faithful servants: Yet, even this while, Bessus had corrupted, and drawn to himself thirty thousand of the Army, promising them all those things by which, the lovers of the world and themselves, are wont to be allured, to wit, Riches, Honour, and Safety.

Now the day following,Darius Discharges his Attendants. Darius plainly discovered the purposes of Bessus, and being overcome with passion, as judging himself unable to make head against these ungrateful and unnatural Traitors, he prayed Artabazus, his faithful Servant, to depart from him, and to provide for his own safety. In like manner he discharged the rest of his Attendants, all save a few of his Eunuchs. For his Guards had voluntarily abandoned him. His Persians, being most base cowards, durst not undertake his defence against the Bactrians, though they had four thousand Greeks to assist them, who of themselves were able to beat both the Parties. But it's most true, That him that forsakes himself, will no man follow. It had been far more man-like, and King-like, to have dyed in the head of those four thousand Greeks, who offered him the disposal of their Lives, (to which Artabazus also perswaded him) than to have lain upon the ground bewailing himself, and suffering himself to be bound like a Slave,Darius made a Prisoner and abused. by those Ambitious Monsters that laid violent hands on him; whom, neither the consideration of his former great estate, nor the Honour he had conferred upon them, nor the trust he had reposed in them, nor the world of benefits he had bestowed on them, could move to pity: No, nor his present adversity, which above all things should have prevailed with them, could pierce their viperous and ingrateful hearts.

Darius, thus forsaken, was bound by them, and laid in a Cart covered with Hides of Beasts, that he might not be discovered; and to add despite and derision to his adversity, they bound him with Chains of Gold, and so drew him amongst their ordinary Carriages. For Bessus and Naburzanes perswaded themselves that they might redeem their lives, and be setled in their Provinces that they held, either by delivering him Prisoner to Alexander, of if that hope failed, to make themselves Kings by his murther, and then to defend themselves by force of Armes. But their expectations were frustrate in both. For it was against the Nature of God,Gods Justice. who is most just, to suffer such villany to go unpunsihed, yea, though against an Heathen King, and an Idolator.

Alexander hearing that Darius was retreated towards Bactria, Alexander pursues him. not daring to abide his coming, hastned after him by a violent march, and because he would not force his Footmen beyond their strength, he mounted on Horseback certain select Companies of them, and those which were best Armed, and with six thousand other Horse, he rather ran than marched after Darius. Now such as hated the Treason of Bessus, secretly forsook him, and gave intelligence to Alexander of all that had happened, informing him of the way that Bessus took, and how near he was unto him. Hereupon Alexander again doubled his pace, and his Vant-guard being come within sight of Bessus his Rear, Bessus brought a Horse to the Cart where Darius lay bound, perswading him to mount thereon, and to save himself by flight. But the unfortunate King refusing to follow those that had betrayed him, they cast Darts at him,Darius is wounded. and gave him some mortal wounds: they wounded also the Beasts that drew him, and slew two poor servants that attended his person. This done, they all fled that could, and left the rest to the mercy of the Macedonians.

Polystratus, a Macedonian, in his pursuit after Bessus, being extream thirsty, as he was refreshing himself with some water that he had found out, espied a Cart drawn by wounded Beasts, that were now scarce able to go, whereupon he [Page] searched it, and there found Darius bathed in his own bloud: and by a Persian Captain that Polystratus had, he understood that it was Darius, and was informed of that barbarous Tragedy. Darius also seemed greatly comforted (if dying men, ignorant of the living God can be comforted) that he vented not his last sorrows unheard; but that by this Macedonian, Alexander might be informed of the truth, and take vengeance on those Traitors, who had dealt no less unworthily, than cruelly with him, recommending the revenge thereof to Alexander by this messenger,His last words. beseeching him to pursue the Traytors, not for Darius his sake, but for his own Honour, and for the safety of all that did, or should hereafter wear Crowns. He also having nothing else to present to Alexander, rendred him thanks for his Kingly Grace and Favour used to his Wife, Mother, and Children; desiring the immortal Gods to subject to him the Kingdom of the whole World. As he was thus speaking, importunate Death pressing out his few remaining spirits, he desired a little Water, which Polystratus presented unto him; after which, he lived but to tell him, that of all the good things which of late he was Master of, he had nothing remaining but his last breath, wherewith to desire the Gods to reward his compassion.

The Macedonians began now to hope that their Travels were near an end; and therefore every man was preparing for his return: whereof, when Alexander was informed,Alexanders Ambition. he was much troubled at it. For the bounded Earth sufficed not for his boundless Ambition. Many Arguments he therefore used to draw on his Army farther into the East: But that which prevailed most was, that Bessus, a base Traitor to his Master Darius, having at his Devotion the Hircanians and Bactrians, would in a short time, if the Macedonians should now return, make himself Lord of the Persian Empire, and reap the fruit of all their former Travels. In conclusion, Alexander won their consents to go on: Which done, leaving Craterus with certain Regiments of Foot, and Amyntas with six thousand Horse in Parthia, He goes into Hircania. he entred (not without some opposition) into Hyrcania. For the Mardons and other barbarous Nations, defended certain passages for a while. But at last prevailing, he passed the River of Zioberis, which, taking its rise in Parthia, empties it self into the Caspian Sea. It runneth under the ledge of Mountains which bound Parthia and Hyrcania, where, hiding it self under ground for three hundred furlongs, it then riseth again, and follows its former course, as is said before. In Zadracarta, the Metropolis of Hircania, Alexander rested fifteen dayes, Banquetting, and Feasting therein.

About this time Pataphernes, one of Darius his greatest Commanders, with some others of his followers,Divers submit to him. submitted themselves to Alexander, and were restored to their places and Government. But above all other, he Graced Artabazus most highly, for his approved and constant Faith and Loyalty to his Master Darius. Artabazus brought along with him ten thousand and five hundred Greeks, the remainder of all those that had served Darius. He treated with Alexander for their pardon before they came; but in the end, they rendred themselves simply without promise or compostion: Alexander pardoned all but the Lacedemonians, whom he imprisoned, their Captain having slain himself. He was also prevailed with (though to his great dishonour) to pardon Nabarzanes, that had joyned with Bessus in the Murther of Darius.

Here (as some write) Thalestris, Queen of the Amazons comes to him. Queen of the Amazons come to visit him, and her suit was, (which she easily obtained) that she might accompany him, till she proved with child by him: which done, she refused to go along with him into India, but returned into her own Country.

Now as Alexander had begun to change his conditions after the taking of Persepolis; so at this time Prosperity had so much corrupted his Virtue, that he accounted Clemency to be but baseness, and the Temperance, which all [Page] his life before he had used, to be but a poor and abject humour, rather becoming the instructers of his youth, than the condition and state of so mighty a King as the World could not equal. For he perswaded himself, that he now represented the greatness of the Gods;He affects a Deity. and he was pleased when those that came before him, would fall down on the ground and adore him. He wore the Garments and Robes of the Persians, and commanded his Nobles to do the like. He entertained into his Court and Camp the same shameless Rabble of Curtizans and Catamites, as Darius had done, whom he imitated, in all the proud, voluptuous, and detested manners of the Persians, whom he had vanquished, and became a more foul and fearful Monster than Darius, from whose Tyranny, he vaunted, to have delivered so many Nations; Insomuch as they that were nearest and dearest to him, began to be ashamed of him, entertaining each other with this, or the like scornful discourse; That Alexander of Macedonia was become one of Darius's licentious Courtiers:For which he is scorned of his Friends. That by his Example, the Macedonians, after so many, and tedious travels, were more impoverished in their Virtues, than enriched by their Victories; and that it was hard now to judge, whether the Conquerors or conquered were the baser slaves. Neither were these things so whispered in corners, but that they came to Alexanders ears: He therefore with great Gifts sought to stop the mouthes of the better sort, and of such, of whose judgments he was most jealous.

Then did he make it known to the Army, that Bessus had assumed the title of a King, and called himself Artaxerxes; and that he had compounded a great Army of the Bactrians and other Nations, whereby he perswaded them to go on; to the end, that all which they had already gotten, together with themselves (so far engaged) might not be cast away and lost. And because they were pestered with the plunder of so many rich Cities, that the whole Army seemed but the guard of their Carriages, he commanded that every mans Fardel should be brought into the Market place; which, when it was done, he, together with his own,He burns all the spoils. caused all to be consumed with fire. This, in probability, might have proved very dangerous unto him: For the Common Souldiers had more interest in that which they had purchased with their painful travel, and with their blood, than in the Kings Ambition; had not this happy temerity overcome all difficulties.

As he was upon his march, news was brought that Satribarzanes, whom he had established in his former Government over the Arians, Rebellion against him. was revolted; Whereupon, leaving the way of Bactria, he sought the Traytor out: But the Rebell hearing of his coming, fled with two thousand Horse to Bessus. Then marched Alexander on against Bessus, and by setting a great Pile of wood on fire, with the advantage of a strong wind, he won a passage over an high an unaccessible Rock, which was defended against him by thirty thousand Foot, the extremity of the fire and smoke forcing them to quit the place, which otherwise had been invincible: After which, he found no resistance, till he came into Aria, on the East of Bactria, where the chief City of that Province, called Artacoana, was a while defended against him, by the revolt of Satribarzanes; but in the end, he received the Inhabitants to mercy. At this place his Army was recruited with a new supply of five thousand, and five hundred Foot, and near five hundred Horse, out of Greece, Thessaly, and other places.

At this time it was, that the Treason of Dimnus was discovered, of which, Philotas the Son of Parmenio was accused,Treason against him. at least as accessary, if not principal. This Dimnus, with some others, having conspired against the life of Alexander, went about to draw Nicomacus, a young man whom he loved, into the conspiracy: The youth, although he was first bound by Oath to secresie, when he heard so foul a matter uttered, began to protest against it so vehemently, [Page] that his Friend was like to have slain him, to secure his own life; and so constrained by fear, he made shew as if he had been won by perswasion, and by seeming at length to like well of the business, he was told more at large who they were that had undertaken it. There were nine or ten of them, all men of rank, whose Names Dimnus (the better to countenance the enterprize) reckoned up to him, Nicomachus had no sooner freed himself from the company of this Traytor Dimnus, than he acquainted his own Brother, Ceballinus, with the whole design; whereupon it was agreed between them, that Ceballinus, (who might do it with the least suspition) should go to the Court, and utter all. Ceballinus meeting with Philotas, told him the whole business, requesting him to acquaint the King with it, which he promised to do, but yet did not.

Two dayes passed, and Philotas never brake with the King about the matter, but still excused himself to Ceballinus, by the Kings want of leisure. This his coldness bred suspition, and caused Ceballinus to apply himself to one Metron, Keeper of the Kings Armory, who forthwith brought him to Alexanders presence. Alexander finding by examination what had passed between Ceballinus and Philotas, It's discovered to Alexander. fully perswaded himself, that this concealment of the Treason argued Philotas to have a hand in it; When Dimnus therefore was brought before him, he asked him only this Question; Wherein have I so offended thee, that thou shouldst think Philotas more worthy to be King than my self? Dimnus, when he was first apprehended, perceiving how the matter was like to go, had so wounded himself, that he lived no longer than to give his last groan in the Kings presence.

Then was Philotas sent for, and charged with the suspition which his silence might justly breed. His answer was, that when the Treason was revealed to him by Nicomachus, he judged it to be but frivolous, and therefore forbore to acquaint Alexander with it, till he could procure better information. This errour of his (if it were but an errour) though Alexander, for the notable services done by his Father Parmenio, and his Brother Nicanor, lately dead, and by Philotas himself, had freely pardoned him, and given him his hand for assurance: Yet, by the instigation of Craterus, he falsified his Princely promise, and made the Enemies of Philotas his Judges.Philotas accused. Craterus indeed perswaded himself, that he could never find a better occasion to oppress his private enemy, than by pretending Piety, and Duty to his Prince. Whence a Poet saith,

See how these Great men cloath their private hate

In these fair colours of the publick good;

And to effect their ends, pretend the State,

As if the State by their affection stood:

And Arm'd with Power, and Princes Jealousies,

Will put the least conceit of discontent

Into the greatest rank of Treacheries,

That no one action shall seem innocent.

Uea, Valour, Honour, Bounty shall be made

As accessaries unto ends unjust:

And even the service of the State must lade

The needful'st undertaking with distrust,

So that base vileness, idle Luxury,

Seem safer far than to do worthily.

Now the King, following the advice of Craterus, Alexander's dissimulation. had resolved the next day to put Philotas to the Torment, yet in the very evening of the same night, in which he was apprehended, he called him to a Banquet, and discoursed as familiarly with him as at any other time. But, when in the dead of the night, [Page] Philotas was taken in his lodging, and that they which hated him, began to bind him, he cried out upon the King, in these words: O Alexander, the malice of mine enemies hath surmounted thy mercy, and their hatred is far more constant than the word of a King. Many circumstances were urged against him by Alexander himself; and this was not the least (not the least offence indeed against the Kings humour, who desired to be adored as a God) that when Alexander wrote unto him concerning the Title given him by Jupiter Hammon, he answered, That he could not but rejoyce that he was admitted into the Sacred fellowship of the Gods, and yet he could not but withall grieve for those which should live under such a one as would exceed the nature of man. This, said Alexander, assured me that his heart was estranged, and that he despised my Glory.

Philotas was brought before the multitude,Philotas accused by the King. to hear the Kings Oration against him. He was brought forth in vile Garments, and bound like a Thief, where he heard himself, and his absent Father, the greatest Captain in the World, accused, and also his two other Brothers, Hector and Nicanor, who had lost their lives in these Wars; wherewith he was so overcome with grief, that, for a while, he could utter nothing for tears; and sorrow had so wasted his Spirits, that he sank between those that led him. In the end, the King asked him, in what Language he would make his defence? He answered, In the same wherein it had pleased the King to accuse him: which accordingly he did, to the end that the Persians as well as the Macedonians might understand him. But hereof the King made this advantage, perswading the Assembly, that he disdained the Language of his own Countrey, and so withdrawing himself, he left him to his merciless enemies.

This proceeding of the Kings, Philotas greatly lamented, seeing the King, who had so sharply inveighed against him, would not vouchsafe to hear his answer. For hereby his enemies were emboldned against him, and all the rest, having discovered the Kings mind and resolution, contended amongst themselves, which of them should shew the greatest hatred towards him. Amongst many Arguments which he brought for his own defence, this was not the least, that when Nicomachus desired to know of Dimnus, of what quality and power his partners in the Conspiracy were, seeming unwilling to adventure himself amongst mean and base Companions, Dimnus named unto him Demetrius, of the Kings Bed-Chamber, Nicanor, Amyntas, and some others, but spake not a word of Philotas, who, being Master of the Horse, would greatly have graced the cause, and encouraged Nicomachus. And to make it more clear that he knew nothing of their intents, there was not any one of the Conspirators that in their torments would accuse him. Yet at the last, himself being put to extream torments,Philotas condemned and tortured to death. by the device of his professed enemies, Craterus, Cenus, Ephestion, and others, Philotas accused himself, hoping that they would have slain him immediately: But he failed even in that miserable hope, and suffering all that could be inflicted on flesh and blood, he was forced to confess, not what was true, but what might best please them, who were far more merciless than Death it self. Cruelty is not a humane vice: It is unworthy of man: It's even a boasting rage to delight in bloud and wounds, and casting away the nature of man, to become a savage Monster.

Now whilst Alexanders hands were yet died in blood,Alexanders cruelty. he commanded that Lyncestes, Son in Law to Antipater, who had been three years in Prison, should be slain. The same dispatch had all those that were accused by Nicomachus. But Parmenio was yet living. Parmenio, who had served with great fidelity, as well Philip, the Kings Father, as himself. Parmenio that first opened Alexanders way into Asia: That had cast down Attalus the [Page] Kings enemy: That had alwayes, and in all hazards, the leading of the Kings Vaunt-guard: That was no less prudent in Counsel, than successful in all his enterprizes. A man, beloved of the men of War, and to say the truth, he that had purchased for the King the Empire of the East, and of all the Glory and Fame which he had attained to. That he might not therefore revenge the Death of his Son, though not upon the King (for it was unlikely that he would have stained his fidelity in his old age, having now lived seventy years) yet upon those who by base Flattery had possessed themselves of the Kings affection; It was resolved that he should dye also: and Polydamus was employed in this business, a man, whom of all others, Parmenio trusted most, and loved best. Who (to be short) finding him in Media, Parmenio mutthered. and having Cleander, and other Murtherers with him, slew him as he was walking in his Garden, and reading the Kings letters. This was the end of Parmenio (saith Curtius) who had performed many notable things without the King; but the King without him did never effect any thing worthy of Praise.

These things being ended, Alexander marched on with his Army,Alexander marches forward. and subdued the Araspitans, and made Amenides (sometime secretary to Darius) their Governour. Then he Conquered the Arachosians, and left Menon to command over them. Here the Army (that was sometime led by Parmenio) found him, which consisted of twelve thousand Macedonians and Greeks, with whom (though with much difficulty) he passed through some cold Regions. At length, he came to the foot of the Mountain Taurus, towards the East,Builds a City. where he built a city, which he honoured with his own Name, and peopled it with seven thousand of his old Macedonians, worn out with age, and the travels of War. The Arians, who since he left them, were revolted, he again subdued, by the industry and valour of Caranus and Erigius: and now he resolved to find out the new King Bessus in Bactria; who hearing of his coming, prepared to pass over the great River of Oxus, which divides Bactria from Sogdiana. Bessus having now abandoned Bactria, Alexander made Artabazus Governour of it, and himself marching forward with his Army,Wants water. they suffered great want of water, insomuch as when they came to the River Oxus, there died more of them by immoderate drinking, than Alexander had lost in any one Battel against the Persians. He found upon the Banks of this great River, no manner of Timber, or other materials wherewith to make Bridges, or Boats, or Rafts, but was forced to sew together Hides that covered his Carriages, and stuffing them with straw, he was six dayes in passing over his Army after that manner, which Bessus might easily have distressed, if he had dared but to look the Macedonians in the face. He had formerly complained of Darius for neglecting to defend the Banks of Tigris, and other Passes; and yet now, when this Traiterous slave had stiled himself a King, he durst not perform any thing worthy of a slave: and therefore they that were nearest to him, and whom he most trusted, to wit, Spicamenes, Dataphernes, Cantanes, and others, the Commanders of his Army, moved, both by the care of their own safety, and the remembrance of Bessus his Treason and cruelty against Darius, Bessus taken. bound him, as he had done his Master, only his chain was closed about his neck, like a Mastiff Dog, and so they dragged him along to present him to Alexander.

In the mean time, Alexander was arrived at a certain Town inhabited by Greeks of Miletum, brought thither by Xerxes, when long before he returned out of Greece, whose children had now almost forgotten their Countrey Language. These entertained him with great joy: but he most cruelly put them all to the Sword,Alexanders [...]. and destroyed their City. At this place he received Bessus, and having rewarded Spitamenes, and his Associates, he delivered the [Page] Traitor into the hands of Oxatre, Bessus slain. Brother to Darius, to be tormented by him.

But now when he thought himself most secure, and out of danger, some twenty thousand Mountainers assaulted his Camp, in repelling whom, he received a shot in his leg, the Arrow head sticking in the flesh,He is wounded. so that he was fain to be carried in a Horse-Litter for some time after.

Shortly after he came unto Maracanda, judged by some to be the same with Samarcand, the Imperial City of the Great Tamerlain, which was in compass seventy furlongs. Here he received the Ambassadors of the Scythians (called Avians) who offered to serve him.

Presently after, the Bactrians, with the Sogdians, were again stirred up to Rebellion, by the same Spitamenes, and Catanes, who had lately delivered Bessus into Alexanders hands. Many Cities were stoutly defended against him, all which, after he had subdued them, he utterly defaced, killing all therein.He is wounded again. At the Siege of one of these he received a blow in the neck, which struck him to the ground, and disabled him from action many dayes after: In the mean while, Spitamenes had recovered Samarcand, against whom he sent Menedemus, with three thousand Foot, and eight hundred Horsemen.

In the heat of these affairs, Alexander marched to the River Jaxartes, that runs between Sogdiana and Scythia, which he passed over, while Menedemus was employed in the recovery of Samarcand. Upon the Banks of this River he built another Alexandria, sixty furlongs in compass, which he beautified with Houses seventeen dayes after the walls were built: But the Scythian King,He builds a City. perswading himself that this City was built on purpose to keep him under, made some attempts to hinder the erection of this new City; but being naked of defensive Arms, he was easily beaten away. Sixty of the Macedonians are said to be slain in this conflict, and eleven hundred wounded, which might easily be done in passing a great River, defended against them by good Archer. Of the Scythian Horses, eighteen hundred were brought into the Camp, and many Prisoners.

Whilst Alexander was securing himself against those Scythians, bordering upon Jaxartes, Menedemus slain. he received the ill news that Menedemus was slain by Spitamenes, his Army broken, and most of them killed; to wit, two thousand Foot, and three hundred Horse. He therefore, intending revenge upon Spitamenes, made all the haste he could, but Spitamenes fled into Bactria. Whereupon Alexander killed, burned, and laid waste all before him, not sparing the innocent Children, and so departed, leaving a new Governour in that Province.

To repair this loss, he received a great supply of nineteen thousand men out of Greece, Lycia, and Syria, with all which, and his old Army, he returned towards the South, and passed the River of Oxus on the Southside whereof he built six Towns, near each to other, for their mutual security. But he found a new upstart Rebell,A Rebellion. one Arimazes, (a Sogdian) who was followed by thirty thousand Souldiers, that defended against him a strong piece of ground on the top of an High and steep Hill. Alexander sought (but in vain) to win him with fair words: wherefore he made choice of three hundred young men, and promised ten Talents to the first, nine to the second, and so proportionably to the rest, that could find a way to creep to the top thereof. This they performed with the loss of thirty two of their number, and then made a sign to Alexander that they had accomplished his Commandment. Hereupon he sent one Cophes to perswade Arimazes to yield up the place; who, being shewed [...] Cophes [Page] that the Macedonians were already gotten up, he yielded simply to Alexanders mercy, and was, with all his Kindred, scourged, and crucified: which punishment they well deserved, for keeping no better a watch in so dangerous a time. For the place might have been defended against any power.

After these Sogdian and Scythian Wars, Alexander committed the Government of Samarcand, and the Country about it, to Clytus, whom yet he slew soon after,Clytus slain. for preferring the Virtue of Philip the Father, before that of Alexander the Son; or rather, because he objected to the King the Death of Parmenio, and derided the Oracle of Hammon: for therein he touched him to the quick; his Speech being in publick, and at a drunken Banquet. Clytus, indeed, had deserved as much at the Kings hand as any man living, having saved his life; which the King well remembred, when he came to himself, and when it was too late to repent. As Clytus in his Cups, forgat whom he offended, so Alexander in his drunkenness forgat whom he slew; for grief whereof, he afterward tore his Face, and sorrowed so inordinately, that had he not been over-perswaded by Calisthenes, he would have slain himself.The effect of Drunkenness. Drunkenness both kindles and discovers every vice: It removes shame, which gives impediment to bad attempts. Where Wine gets the Mastery, all the evil which before lay hidden, breaks out. Drunkenness indeed rather discovers vices than makes them.

Soon after this, Spitamenes, who slew Bessus, and had lately revolted from Alexander, was murthered by his own Wife, and his Head was presented to Alexander. Spitamenes being thus taken away, the Dahans also seized upon his fellow Conspirator, Dataphernes, and delivered him up: So that Alexander being now freed from all those petty Rebels, and disposed of the Provinces that he had quieted, marched on with his Army into Gabaza, where it suffered so much Hunger, Cold, Lightning, Thunder, and such Storms,Deadful storms. that in one of them he lost a thousand men. From hence he invaded the Sacans, and destroyed their Country. Then came he into the Territories of Cohortanes, who submitted himself to him, and presented him with thirty beautiful Virgins; amongst whom, Roxane, afterwards his Wife, was one; which, although all the Macedonians stomached, yet none of them durst use any freedome of speech after the death of Clytus. From hence he directed his course towards India, having so increased his numbers, as amounted to one hundred and twenty thousand Armed men.

In the mean while, he would needs be honoured as a God, whereunto, that he might allure his Macedonians, His Ambition. Calisthenes speaks against it. he implyed two of his Parasites, Hagis and Cleo, whom Calisthenes opposed. For amongst many other honest Arguments which he used in the Assembly, he told Cleo, that he thought that Alexander would disdain the Title of a God from his Vassals: That the opinion of Sanctity, though it did sometimes follow the Death of those, who in their Life-time had done the greatest things, yet it never accompanied any one as yet living in the world: He said, that neither Hercules, nor Bacchus, were Deified at a Banquet, and upon drink, (for this matter was propounded by Cleo at a carousing Feast) but for the more than manly acts performed by them in their Life-time, for which they were in succeeding Ages numbred amongst the Gods. Alexander stood behind a partition, and heard all that was spoken, waiting but for an opportunity to be revenged on Calisthenes, who, being free of speech, Honest, Learned, and a Lover of the Kings Honour, was yet shortly after tormented to Death. For upon occasion of a Conspiracy made against the King,And is tormented to Death. by one Hermelaus, and others, who confessed it, he caused Calisthenes, without confession, accusation, or tryal to be torn asunder upon the Rack.

[Page] This deed, unworthy of a King, is thus censured by Seneca. Thus (saith he) is the eternal crime of Alexander, which no Virtue, or felicity of his in War, shall ever be able to blot out. For as often as any man shall say, He slew many thousands of Persians, it will be replied, He did so, and he slew Calisthenes too. When it shall be said that he won all as far as to the very Ocean, whereon also he adventured with unusual Navies, and extended his Empire from a corner of Thrace, to the utmost bounds of the East; it shall be said withall; But he killed Calisthenes. Let him have out-gone all the ancient Examples of Captains and Kings, none of all his Acts make so much to his Glory, as the Death of Calisthenes to his reproach.

With the Army before mentioned,He marches into India. of one hundred and twenty thousand Foot and Horse, Alexander entred into the borders of India, where, such of the Princes as submitted themselves to him, he entertained lovingly, the others he enforced, killing man, woman, and child, where they resisted. He then came before Nisa, built by Bacchus, which, after a [...]ew dayes, was rendred to him. From thence he removed to a Hill at hand, which on the top had goodly Gardens, filled with delicate fruits and Vines, dedicated to Bacchus, to whom he made Feasts for ten dayes together. And when he had drank his fill,His Feasts to Bacchus. went on to Dedula, and from thence to Acadera, Countries spoiled, and abandoned by the Inhabitants; by reason whereof, Victuals failing,He conquers many Countries. he divided his Army. Ptolomy led one part, Cenon another, and himself the rest. These took in many Towns, whereof, that of greatest fame was Muzage, which had in it three hundred thousand men, but after some resistance, it was yielded to him by Cleophe the Queen, to whom he again restored it. At the Siege of this City he received a wound in the leg.

After this, Nola was taken by Polisperchon; and a Rock of great strength by Alexander himself: He won also a passage from one Eryx, who was slain by his own men, and his Head presented to Alexander: This was the sum of his Actions in those parts, before he came to the great River Indus. And when he came thither, he found there Ephestion, who (being sent before) had prepared Boats for the transportation of his Army, and before Alexanders arrival, had prevailed with Omphis, King of that part of the Country, to submit himself to this great Conquerour. And hereupon, soon after Alexanders coming, Omphis presented himself, with all the strength of his Country, and fifty six Elephants, unto him; offering him his service and assistance: He told Alexander also, that he was an enemy to the two next great Kings of that part of India, named Abiasares, and Porus; wherewith Alexander was not a little pleased, hoping by this their disunion, to make his own Victory be the far more easie.

This Omphis also presented Alexander with a Crown of Gold, the like did the rest of his Commanders; and withall he gave him eight Talents of Silver, coined; which Alexander not only refused, but to shew that he coveted Glory,His Pro [...]ligality. not Gold, he gave Omphis a thousand Talents of his own Treasure, besides other Persian rarities.

Abiasares being informed that Alexander had received his enemy Omphis into his protection, he resolved to make his own peace also. For, knowing that his own strength did but equal that of Omphis, he thought it but an ill match, when Alexander, who had already subdued all the greatest Princes of Asia, should make himself a party, and head of the quarrell. So then now Alexander had none to stand in his way, but Porus, to whom he sent a command, that he should attend him at the Borders of his Kingdom,He sends to Porus. there to do him Homage: But the gallant Porus returned him this manly answer: That he would satisfie him in the first demand, which was, to attend him on his Borders, and that well accompanied; but [Page]for any other acknowledgment, he was resolved to take counsel of his Sword. To be short, Alexander resolved to pass over the River of Hydaspes, and to find out Porus at his own home: But Porus saved him that labour, attending him on the farther bank, with thirty thousand Foot, ninety Elephants, and three hundred armed Chariots, and a great Troop of Horse. The River was half a mile broad, and withal, deep and swift. It had in it many Islands, amongst which there was one much overgrown with Wood, and of good capacity.

Alexander sent Ptolomy, with a good part of the Army up the River, shrowding the rest from the sight of Porus under this Island, by this devise, Porus being drawn from the place of his first encamping, set himself down opposite to Ptolomy, supposing that the whole Army of Alexander was there, intending to force their passage: But in the mean while Alexander with his men, recovered the the farther shore without resistance, and ordering his Troops, he advanced towards Porus, who at first imagined them to be Abiasares his confederate, come over Hydaspis to assist him: But finding it to be otherwise, he sent his Brother Hagis with four thousand Horse, and a hundred armed Chariots to entertain him. Each Chariot had in it four to [...]ight,A Battel. and two to guide it: But they were at this time of little use, by reason that much rain having fallen, the fields were so foul that the Horses could hardly trot.

In this fight the Scythians and Dahans had Alexanders Vantguard, who so galled the Indians with their Darts and Arrows, that the Horses brake their reins, and overturned the Chariots, and those that were in them. Perdiccas also charged the Indian Horsemen, who were by him forced to recoil. Then did Porus move forward with the Gross of his Army, that his Vantguard, who were scattered, might retreat into his Rear. Alexander, being followed by Ephestion, Ptolomy, and Perdiccas, charged the Indian Horsemen in the left wing, commanding Cenon to set upon the right. He directed also Antigonus and Leonatus to charge Porus his Battel of Foot, strengthened with Elephants, Porus himself riding upon one of the biggest of them. By these Beasts the Macedonian Foot received the greatest dammage; but the Archers and Darters being well guarded with the long and strong Pikes of the Macedonians, so galled them, that the Elephants being inraged, turned Head, and ran over their own Footmen that followed them. In the end, after a long and doubtful fight, by the advantage of weapons,Porus beaten. and the skill and courage of the Macedonian Captains, the Victory fell to Alexander, who also far exceeded Porus in number of men. For, besides the Macedonians, and other Eastern and Northern Nations, Alexander was assisted by Porus his Confederates, and Country people: Yet, for his own person, he never gave ground, otherwise than with his Sword towards his enemies, till, being weakned by many wounds, and abandoned by his Army, he became a Prisoner to the Conquerour, from whom again he received his Kingdom,He is restored to his Kingdom. with a great enlargement.

I forbear to mention other petty Victories which Alexander obtained after this, in his sailing down the River of Indus. The description of places about the Head, and branches thereof, are better known to us by reason of our late Navigations and Discoveries, than they were in former times. The magnificence and Rights of those Indian Kings, we could in no sort be perswaded to believe, till our own experience had taught us, that there are many stranger things in the world than we see in our own Countrey.

Alexander, having by this time over-wearied his Army, he discovered the rest of India by Fame. The Indian Kings whom he had subdued, informed [Page] him, that a King called Aggramenes, ruled over many Nations beyond the River Ganges, who was able to bring into the Field two hundred thousand Foot, twenty thousand Horse, three thousand Elephants, and two thousand armed Chariots. With this report, though Alexander was more enflamed than ever, to proceed in his Discoveries and Conquests, yet all his Oratory could not prevail with his Souldiers to adventure over those waste Desarts beyond Indus and Ganges, which were more terrible to them, than the greatest Army that the East could gather. Yet at last they were overcome by many perswasions to follow him towards the South, to discover such parts of the Ocean as were nearer at hand, unto which the River Indus was their infallible guide.

Alexander seeing it would be no otherwise, devised a pretty trick, by which he hoped to beguile after-ages,His Policy. and make himself seem greater than he was. For which end, he enlarged his Camp, made greater Trenches, greater Cabins for Souldiers, greater Horse-stalls, and higher Mangers than Horses could seed in. Yea, he caused all furniture both for Men and Horses, to be made larger than would serve for use, and scattered these Armours and Bridles about his Camp, to be kept as Reliques, and wondred at by those barbarous People. Proportionable unto these, he raised up twelve great Altars, to be Monuments of his Journeys end.

This done, he returned again to the Banks of Asesines, and there determined to build his Fleet, where Ausines and Hydaspes meet; and to testifie by a surer Monument, how far he had passed towards the East, he built by those Rivers two Cities: the one he called Nicaea, and the other Bucephalon, He builds two Cities. after the name of his beloved Horse Bucephalus. Here again he received a new supply of six thousand Thracian Horse-men, seven thousand Foot, and from his Lieutenant of Babylon, twenty five thousand Armours, garnished with Silver and Gold, which he distributed amongst his Souldiers.

About these Rivers he won many Towns, and committed great slaughter on those that resisted.His Conquest▪ It's said, that besieging a City of the Oxidracans, he leaped from the top of the wall into it, and fought long against all the Inhabitants, till his Souldiers, forcing a Gate, came in to his rescue. Finally, he passed down the River with his Fleet, at which time news was brought him of a Rebellion in Bactria, and then of the arrival of a hundred Ambassadours from a King in India, who submitted himself to him. These Ambassadours he Feasted upon a hundred Beds of Gold, with all the sumptuousness that could be devised; who, soon after their dispatch, returned again, and presented him with three hundred Horses, and one hundred and thirty Wagons, and in each of them four Horses, a thousand Targets, with many other things rare and rich.

Then sailed Alexander towards the South,He builds a City. passing through many obscure Nations, which all yielded to him, either quietly, or by force: Amongst these, he built another Alexandria. Of the many places which he took in his passage, one was called Samus, the Inhabitants whereof fought against him with poysoned Swords; with one of which, Ptolomy (afterwards King of Egypt,) was wounded, and was cured by an Herb which Alexander dreamed he had seen in the mouth of a Serpent.

When he came near to the out-let of Indus, (being ignorant of the Tides of the Sea) his Gallies on a sudden were shuffled one against another, by the coming of the Flood, and in the Ebb, they were left on the dry ground, and on the Sandy banks in the River, wherewith the Macedonians were much amazed: But after he had a few dayes observed the course of the Sea, he passed out of the Rivers mouth some few miles, and then offering Sacrifice to Neptune, he returned; and the better to inform himself, [Page] he sent Nearchus and Onesicritus to discover the Coast towards the mouth of Euphrates.

Near the out-lets of this River,He wants food. he spent some part of Winter, and from thence, in eighteen dayes march, he recovered Gredosia, in which passage his Army suffered such misery through the want of food, that of one hundred and twenty thousand Foot, and twelve thousand Horse, which he carried into India, not a fourth part returned alive.

From Gredosia, Alexander led his Army into Caramania, and so drawing near to Persia, His debauchedness. he gave himself wholly unto Feasting and Drinking, imitating the Triumphs of Bacchus. And though this Swinish Vice be hateful enough in it self; Yet it alwayes inflamed this King to cruelty. For (saith Curtius) the Hangman followed the Feast: For Haspastes, one of his Provincial Governours, he commanded to be slain; so as, Neither did the excess of Voluptuousness qualifie his Cruelty, nor his Cruelty at all hinder his Voluptuousness.

While he refreshed his Army in these parts, there came a new supply to him of five thousand Foot, and a thousand Horse, which were conducted to him by Cleander and his Fellows, that had been employed in the murther of Parmenio. He punishes his Officers. Against these murtherers great complaints were made by the Deputies of the Provinces, in which they had commanded; and their offences were proved to be so outragious, that Alexander was perswaded, that, had they not altogether despaired of his return out of India, they durst not have committed them. All men were glad of the occasion, remembring the Virtue of him whom they had slain. The end was, that Cleander and the other chief, together with six hundred Souldiers, who had been the instruments of their ravages, were delivered over to the Hangman; every one rejoycing that the wrath of the King was at last poured out upon the Ministers of his Anger.

Nearchus and Onesicritus were now returned from searching the Coast, and made report of an Island they had discovered, rich in Gold, and of other strange things; whereupon they were commanded to make some farther discovery, after which they should come up Euphrates, and meet the King at Babylon.

Alexander drawing near to Babylon, He visits the Sepulchre of Cyrus. went to visit the Sepulchre of Cyrus in Pesagardes, where he was presented with many rich Gifts by Orsanes, one of the Princes of Persia, of the race of Cyrus. But because Bagoas, an Eunuch, who was in special favour with the King, was neglected, he suborned some loose fellows to accuse Orsanes for robbing Cyrus his Tomb; for which he was condemned to dye,His cruelty. and Bagoas assisted the Hangman with his own hands to torment him. At this time also Alexander caused Phradites to be slain, suspecting his greatness. Hence (saith Curtius) he began unreasonably to shed blood, and to believe false reports. Indeed he took the way to make all men weary of him, and his Government, seeing Tyranny is more dreadful than all adventures that can be made against it.

About this time,Calanus burnt himself. Calanus the Philosopher burnt himself, having lived seventy three years; and Historians say, that before his Death he foresaw, and foreshewed the Death of Alexander, promising to meet him shortly after at Babylon.

From Pesagardes, His Marriage and Feasting. Alexander went to Susa, where he married Statyra, the Eldest Daughter of Darius, giving her younger Sister to his beloved Ephestion, and eighty other Persian Ladies to other of his Captains. To his Wedding Feast he invited six thousand Guests, to each of which he gave a Cup of Gold.

Unto this place came to him three thousand young Souldiers out of his Conquered Provinces, whereat the Macedonians greatly murmured. Harpalus, [Page] his Treasurer in Babylon, having lavishly consumed the money in his keeping, fled with five thousand Talents, and six thousand hired Souldiers; but when he came into Greece, he was there slain.Harpalus slain. Alexander much rejoyced at the fidelity of the Greeks, who would not be corrupted with Harpalus his Bribes: Yet he sent a command to them, that they should receive their banished men again; whereunto they all for fear yielded, except the Athenians, though they saw that it was a manifest preparation to their bondage.

After this,His Army discontented. there followed a marvellous discontent in his Army, because he had resolved to send into Macedonia all those old Souldiers which could no longer endure the travell of the War, and to keep the rest in Asia. He made many Orations to satisfie them, but all his words were in vain, during the heigth of their fury; Yet, when their first passions were evaporated, they became more tractable. And with such as were licenced to depart, he sent Craterus, He sends for Antipater. to whom he gave the Lieutenantship of Macedonia, Thessaly, and Thrace, which Antipater had Governed from the time of Alexanders departure out of Europe, who (during that time) had subdued the rebellious Greeks, discharged the trust committed to him with great fidelity, and sent him from time to time so many strong supplies into Asia.

Certainly, if Alexander had not taken counsel of his Cups, he would have cast some better colour upon this alteration, and given Antipater some stronger reasons of his remove, than to employ him in conducting a new supply of men to Babylon, the War being now at an end. For Antipater could make no other construction of this remove, but that he had a purpose to send him after Parmenio, and the rest. The truth is, the King, notwithstanding his undauntedness, had no great mind to grapple with Antipater.

Alexander having thus sent for Antipater, Ephestion dyes. made a journey into Media, to settle things there, where Ephestion, whom he loved and favoured above all others, died. The King greatly lamented his loss, hanged the Physician that could not cure him, and built him a Monument that cost twelve thousand Talents. After which he returned to Babylon. Thither Antipater came not, but sent, and that, not to excuse, but to free himself; And if we may believe Curtius, he suborned his Sons, Cassander, Philip, and Jolla, who were Alexander Cup-bearers,Alexander dyes. to give him poyson; Thessalus (who was one of the conspiracy) having invited him to a Drinking-Feast for that purpose. Others say, that by his inordinate drinking he fell into a Fever, whereof he died.

A little before his Death,His Will. his Friends about him asked him, to whom he would leave his Empire? He answered, To the most worthy man. Then asked they him, when they should give him Divine Honours? He answered, When they themselves were happy; which were the last words that he spake, and so he died, having lived not all out thirty three years, nor reigned thirteen.

As soon as he was Dead,The vanity of all earthly things. his great Captains sought to inrich themselves by his Spoils, and whilst they were sharing the World amongst themselves, his dead Body lay many dayes in that hot Countrey unburied, stinking above ground: A notable emblem of the Vanity of all Earthly things. Besides this, his vast Empire was divided amongst his great Captains;The confusions after his death. To Ptolomaeus Lagi was allotted Egypt and Africa; To Laomedon, Syria and Phoenicia; To Python, Media; To Eumenes, Paphlagonia and Cappadocia; To Antigonus, Pamphilia, Lycia, and Phrygia the Greater; To Cassander, Caria; To Menander, Lydia; To Leonatus, Phrygia the less; To Lysimachus, Thracia, with the neighbouring Countries; To Antipater, Macedonia, and the neighbouring Nations. But these men, not contented with their shares, fell out amongst themselves, [Page] making War one upon another to their own destruction; For,Gods Justice. Perdiccas, warring upon Egypt, was slain by his own Souldiers; Antipater died; Eumenes was betrayed by his own Souldiers, and slain by Antigonus; Olympias, the Mother of Alexander, was slain by Cassander; Cleopatra, Sister to Alexander, was slain by the treachery of Antigonus; Antigonus himself was slain in Battel by Cassander and Lysimachus; Roxane, the beloved Wife of Alexander, together with her Son Alexander, and Barsine, another of his Wives, which was Daughter to Darius, were all slain by Cassander. And presently after, the whole Family of Cassander was rooted out; Ptolomy died in Egypt; Lysimachus was slain by Seleuchus; and Seleuchus himself presently after by Ptolomy. So that all the Family of Alexander, within a few years after his Death, was wholly extirpated; and all his Friends and great Captains, by their Ambition and mutual contentions, came most of them to untimely ends.

When the dead body of Alexander had lain seven dayes upon his Throne, at last the Chaldeans and Egyptians were commanded from thenceforth to take the care of it; But when they came about it, they durst not at first approach to touch it: But anon after, saying their Prayers, that it might be no sin unto them, being but mortals, to lay their hands upon so Divine a Body, they fell to work, and dissected it; the Golden Throne whereon he lay, being all stuffed with Spices, and hung about with Pendants and Banners, and other Emblems of his high State and Honour.

The care of his Funeral, and of providing a Chariot wherein to carry his Body to the Temple of Jupiter Hammon, was committed to Aridaeus, who spent two whole years in making provision for it; which made Olympias, his Mother, (seeing him lye so long unburied) in great grief of heart to cry out, and say, O my Son! Thou that wouldst needs be accounted amongst the Gods, and keptest such adoe about it, canst not now have that which every poor man hath, a little Earth, and Burial.

Long after, when Julius Caesar had Conquered Pompey, and was idle in Egypt, Lucan tells us, that he visited the Temples, and the Cave wherein the Body of Alexander the Great lay, In these Verses;

—Vultu semper celante timorem,

Intrepidus Superum sedes, & Templa vetusti

Numinis, &c.

Then with a look still hiding fear, goes he

The Stately Temple of th' old God to see,

Which speaks the Ancient Macedonian greatness;

But there delighted with no Objects sweetness,

Nor with their Gold, nor Gods Majestick dress,

Nor lofty City Walls; with greediness

Into the burying Vault goes Coesar down,

Where Macedonian Philip's mad-brain'd Son,

The prosperous Thief, lies buried; Whom just Fate

Slew in the Worlds Revenge.—

Alexander was very Learned,His character. and a great Lover of Learning, and Learned men, insomuch as he rewarded his Master Aristotle with eighty Talents, for his History of Living Creatures. He so prized Homers Iliads, that in all his Wars he carried it in his Pocket, and laid it under his Pillow a nights. He loved his Master Aristotle as if he had been his Father, and used to say, We have our being from our Parents, but our well-being from our School-Masters.

His Mother Olympias was very severe and morose in her carriage; and once [Page] Antipater, his Vice-Roy in Europe, wrote large Letters of complaint to him, against her;His love to his Mother. to whom he returned this answer: Knowst thou not that one little tear of my Mothers, will blot out a thousand of thy Letters of complaint? When he heard the Philosophers conclusion concerning the unity of the World, he wept, because there were no more Worlds for him to Conquer but one. An evident note of his great Ambition: which also manifested it self hereby;His Ambition. That when he came to the Tomb of Achilles, he fell as weeping, considering that Achilles had a Homer to sing his Praises, and to perpetuate his memory, whereas he had no such Poet to set forth his Commendations. Also he commanded, that no man should draw his Picture, but Apelles, the most exquisite Painter in the World, and that none should make his Statue in Brass but Lycippus, the most excellent Workman in that kind.

Alexander used to carry his Head on one side, inclining to the left,Flattery. wherein his Court-Parasites (to ingratiate themselves with him) imitated him. One desiring to see his Treasures, and his Jewels, he bad his Servants sh [...]w him, not his Talents of Gold and Silver, and such other precious things, but his Friends.

When he had overcome Darius, and gotten possession of all his Dominions and Treasures,He degenerated after his victories. he began to degenerate into the Asian Luxury. His Chastity and Moderation were turned into Pride and Lust. He judged his Country manners, and the Discipline of the former Macedonian Kings, too sordid and mean for him. He imitated the Pride of the Persian Kings, he made him a Crown, and Robes like unto Darius. He grew so proud and insolent, that he suffered his Souldiers to fall down and worship him like a God. Yea, he commanded his Servants, and Slaves to do so. He cloathed his Captains and Horse-men like unto the Persians, which though they disliked they durst not refuse. He gat him three hundred sixty five Concubines, of the beautifullest Virgins that could be found in Asia, after the manner of the Persian Kings, one of which lay with him every night. He had his Troops of Eunuchs, with Musicians, Jesters, Singing women, &c. He spent whole days and nights in profuse Feasting, and Revelling. All which was very offensive to his old Captains, and Souldiers.

When he was a Boy, he took both his hands full of perfumes, and cast them into the fire as he was Sacrificing, whereupon Leonidas, one of his School-Masters said to him: O Alexander, when thou hast Conquered those Countries wherein these odors grow, then thou maist be so liberal, but in the mean time be more sparing. Afterwards, when he had conquered Arabia Foelix, he sent to Leonidas a hundred Tallents of Myrrhe, and five hundred of Frankincense, bidding him to be hereafter more liberal in his service of the Gods.

He was of so bountiful a disposition,His bounty. that it was a greater trouble to him not to be asked than not to give. He wrote to Phocian, that he would make use of his friendship no more if he refused his Gifts. Serapion, a young Boy that used to play at Ball with him, gat nothing because he asked nothing; whereupon the next time he played, he threw the Ball to all but Alexander, the King marvelling at it, asked him why he threw not the Ball to him? Forsooth (said Serapion) because you asked it not. Alexander laughing at the jest, sent him a liberal Gift.

As he was travelling through the Desarts of Persia, himself and his Army were in great straits for want of water: One of his Souldiers having two Sons ready to dye of thirst, sought up and down, and at last found a little water, wherewith he filled a leather Bottel, and was running with it to his Sons: but meeting Alexander by the way, he filled it out into a dish, and profered it to him. Alexander asked him, whither he was carrying it? the man told him that his two Sons were ready to die [Page] with thirst: But (said he) pray you Sir, do you drink it; For if my Sons die I can get more, but if you die we shall not have such an other King. Alexander hearing this, gave him the water again, and bid him carry it to his Sons.

Alexander in his younger days was so moderate,His Temperance. and temperate, that he would often open his chests, and look upon his Garments, to see if his Mother had not provided him, either delicate or superfluous Apparel.

Also when the Queen of Caria, to shew her great love to him, sent him dayly variety of Dishes and Dainties, and at last sent her Cooks, and Bakers to him, he returned them back again, saying, That he had no need of their service; for his Master Leonidas had provided him better Cooks, by teaching him to dine and sup Frugally, and sparingly. Also when he had any rare, and Dainty Fruits, or Fishes sent him from the Sea, he used to distribute them amongst his Friends, reserving very little or none for his own use.

One craving a small gift of him, he gave him a whole City, and when the Poor man said, That it was too much for him to receive: Yea (said Alexander) but not for me to give.

As he was advanceing to conquer a Kingdom in India, Taxilis, who was King thereof, came and met him, saying, O Alexander, What need we fight, if thou comest not to take away my food and water, for which its only fit for wise men to [...]ight? If thou seekest after Riches, if I have more than thou, I will give thee part of mine: if thou hast more than I, I will not refuse part of thine. Alexander being much taken with his speech, said to him, Go to, I will contend with thee in bounty, and so they mutually gave and received many Gifts. At last Alexander gave him a thousand Tallents, which much grieved his Friends, and rejoyced the Barbarian.

He shewed an admirable Example of his Chastity in the heat of his youth,His Chastity. when having taken the Mother, Wives, and Daughters of Darius, women of admirable beauty, yet, neither by word, nor deed did he profer them the least indignity, thinking it a greater honour to overcome himself than his Adversaries: And when he looked upon other Captive Ladies that excelled in stature and beauty, he merrily said, Persides oculorum dolores esse: That the Persian women were a disease of the eyes, and yet he looked on them but as on so many Statues. When he was informed that two of his Captains under Permenio, had ravished two of the Persian Ladies, he wrote to him to enquire after the matter, and if he found it true, he should cut off their Heads, as of Beasts born for the hurt of mankind. He also sent him word, that himself was so far from contemplating the Beauty of Darius his Wife, that he would not so much as suffer her to be commended in his presence; and that he was so careful of their Chastity, that they lived in his Camp, shut up in their Tent, as if they had been in a Temple.

At the Death of Ephestion, his Favorite, he did not only clip the Haire of his Horses, and Mules, but plucked down also the Battlements of the City walls, that they might seem to mourn for his Minions Death, shewing now deformity instead of their former Beauty.

Porus, an Indian King, fighting valiantly against him, receiving many wounds, and at last, being overcome, and falling into his enemies hands, they brought him to Alexander, who hearing of his coming, went forth, with some of his Friends, to meet him, and asked him what he would have him to do for him, Porus answered, My only desire is, that thou use me like a King: Alexander, admiring his magnanimity, replyed, This I [Page]will do for my own sake: but what wouldest thou have me do for thine? Porus answered, That all was contained in his former demand of Kingly usage: Alexander was so pleased with this, that he restored him to his Kingdom, and gave him another bigger than his own.

Alexander the Great (saith Plutarch) built seventy Cities, He brought many barbarous Nations to civility. He taught the People Hircani the use of Marriage: and the Arachosians, Tillage and Husbandry: The Sogdians, that they should nourish and cherish their aged Parents, and not kill them: The Persians, to honour their Mothers, and not to use them for their Wives: The Scythians, that they should not eat their Dead, but bury them in the Earth. &c.

His Clemency to those whom he conquered, was very exemplary. The same day that he took, he restored again the Kingdom to Porus King of India. Darius his Mother he entertained honourably, as a Queen. Darius his Wife, and beautiful Daughters, he would not so much as see, as careful to preserve their Chastity.

His Liberality and Magnificence exceeded all his other Virtues. He gave at one time three and twenty thousand Talents among his Souldiers, to pay their Debts. At his Marriage, he invited ten thousand Guests, and gave to every one of them a Cup of Gold. To one that asked something of him, he gave a City; and when the Party would have refufed it, as too great a Gift for him, Alexander said, Non quaero quid te decet accipere, sed quid me decet dare: I regard not what is meet for thee to take, but what is meet for me to give. Whereupon Plutarch saith, that those Virtues for the which severally sundry worthy men have been commended, did all concur and meet in him: As the Valour of Achilles: the Chastity of Agamemnon: the Piety of Diomedes: the Courage of Cyrus: the Policy of Themistocles: the Boldness of Brassida: And the Prudence of his Father Philip.

His Military Virt [...]es were remarkable: As, his Courage, in that with thirty thousand Footmen, and five thousand Horsemen (for he had no more when he first passed over into Asia) he durst bid defiance to all the World. His Patience, in enduring Hunger and Thirst, Heat and Cold. His dexterity, and celerity, in omitting no opportunity of advantage to his affairs, so that in seven years he accomplished all his great Conquests: And to these may be added, his singular success; For he never besieged any City, but he took it.

But after he had glutted himself with the Pleasures of Asia, the Vices that he fell into were not inferiour to his afore-named Virtues. Among the rest, these four notable Vices were apparent in him. First, Drunkenness: for he would drink so excessively, that he would lie two or three dayes senseless, till he had slept out his Drink. Secondly, In his Drunkenness he was cruel and outragious: In one of those fits he slew his dear Friend Clitus, whose loss he greatly bewailed afterwards. Thirdly, He was much given to Wantonness, and Fleshly Lusts. Fourthly, At length he grew so intolerably Proud, that he would needs be accounted the Son of Jupiter, and commanded Calisthenes (one of his great Commanders,) to be slain, because he would not worship him.

He accounted Achilles happy, because he had such a man as Homer to set forth his Praises: But himself had many worthy men to Register his Acts; As Ptolomy, King of Egypt: Hecataeus: Aristobulus: Calisthenes: Onesicratus: Diodorus Siculus: Trogus Pompeius: Justin: Quintus Curtius: with divers others.

Lycippus the Painter, made Alexanders Picture looking up to Heaven, with this Motto, ‘Jupiter, asserui Terram mihi, tu assere Coelum.’

[Page] O Jupiter, I have taken the Earth to my self; Take thou Heaven: with which Alexander was so well pleased, that he published a Proclamation, that none should draw his Picture but Lycippus.

Apelles drew Alexander's Picture with a Thunderbolt in his hand, to shew his admirable celerity, and unresistableness in his Conquests.

This bloudy man lived not out half his Dayes, and not long after his Death all his Posterity was rooted out.

His Posterity and Kindred that he left behind him, were; his Mother Olymtias; his Unkle Pyrrhus, King of Epirus: His Brother Arideus, and his Sister Cleopatra: His two Wives, with their two Sons; Roxane with Alexander, and Bursines with Hercules▪ Olympias caused Arideus to be Killed: Cassander thereupon took occasion to put Olympias to death, being almost fourscore years old: and then he poysoned both Alexanders Sons, [Alexander and Hercules] with Roxane Alexanders Wife. Cleopatra, Alexanders Sister, the Governour of the Sardians, who was base Brother to Philip, Alexanders Father, procured her to be killed, therein thinking to gratifie Antigonus: And last of all, Pyrrhus was vanquished by Antigonus, the Son of Demetrius, by whom his Head was cut off.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF EPAMINONDAS, THE GREAT CAPTAIN OF THE THEBANS.

[Page]

THE Father of Epaminondas was Polymnis, His Parentage. Education. who was descended of one of the most ancient, and renowned Families amongst the Thebans, the most part of which Noble linage had upon their Bodies for a natural Birth-mark, the resemblance of a Snake. This Polymnis had two only Sons, Caphisias, and Epaminondas, whom he educated very carefully, and had them very carefully, and had them very well instructed in all the liberal Arts, and honest Sciences: especially Epaminondas, His Parts▪ who had the more stayed wit, and was most inclined to Virtue, desirous to learn, humble, obedient, and wonderful docible: and of one Dyonisius he learned to be very skilful in Singing, and Musick. And for Philosophy it happened well for him that he fell into an excellent Masters hands by this means.

The Colleges of the Pythagorian Phylosophers that were dispersed through the Cities of Italy, were banished by the faction of the Cylonians, yet such as still kept together, met in a Councel at Metapont to consider of their affairs: But some seditious Persons rose up against them, and set the House wherein they were on fire, and burnt them all; only Phylolaus and Lysis, being lusty young men, escaped through the fire. Phylolaus fled into the Country of the Lucanians, and resided there with his Friends: But Lysis got to Thebes, where Polymnis intertained him, intreating him to undertake the Tuition of his Son, Epaminondas, who, though he was but a young Boy, yet was he of good capacity, and of very good Hopes, This Phylosopher [Page] accordingly applied himself to manure this noble and quick wit of Epaminondas, and in a short time made him perfect in all Sciences and Virtue, so that it was hard to find a more wise, grave, and virtuous Person than he was.

When he was but fifteen years of age,He exercises and studies. he gave himself to all manner of exercises of the Body, as to run, wrestle, use his Weapons, and all feats of Arms: and having quickly attained to skill in these, he applied himself to his Book, He was naturally silent, fearful to speak, but never a weary to hear and learn; whereupon Spintharus, the Tarentine, being familiarly acquainted with him in Thebes, used to say, that he never knew any man that knew so much, and spake so little as Epaminondas, If he fell into any company that discoursed of Philosophy, or of State matters, he would never leave them, till the matter propounded was at an end. He was of a pleasant disposition, and so witty that he could break a jest as well as any man.

Lysis after he had lived long in Thebes, His Discourse with a Philosopher. died, and was honourably buried by his Scholar Epaminondas. Not long after, Theanor, one of the Pythagorians in Sicily, was sent to bring Lysis thither, but when he came to Thebes, he found him dead and buried, therefore going to Epaminondas, after salutations, he told him that his Companions, who were rich, willed him to give Polymnis, and his Chidren, a good sum of mony in recompence of that curteous entertainment which they had given to Lysis: Epaminondas, after pleasant excuses made, told him that none could be received, saying further Jason, a Captain of the Thessalians thought that I gave him a rude and uncivil answer, when he, having earnestly entreated me to receive a good sum of Gold, I sent him word that he did me wrong, and began to make War with me: for that he, aspiring to make himself a Lord, would corrupt me with mony, who am a plain Citizen of a free Town, and living under the Law, But for thee Theanor, I commend thy good will, because its honest and virtuous, but I tell thee thou bringest Physick to them that are not sick. Admit that thou, hearing we had been in Wars, hadst brought us Arms to defend us, and when on the contrary thou hadst found us quiet, and at peace with all our neighbours, thou wouldst not have thought fit to bestow these Arms, and leave them with those that had no need of them. Even so, thou art come to relieve our poverty as though it were a burden to us, whereas on the contrary, its an easie and pleasant thing to us to carry, and we are glad we have it in our Houses amongst us, and therefore we have no need of Arms, or mony against that which doth us no hurt at all. But tell thy brethren that they use their goods very honestly: and also that they have Friends here which use their Poverty as well: and as for the intertainment, and burial of Lysis, he hath himself fully recompenced us, having taught us, amongst many other good lessons, not to be afraid of Poverty, nor to be grieved to see it amongst us. Theanor having made some reply about the good and evil of Riches, and told him that as Poverty was not evil in it self, so neither was Riches to be had in contempt and dispised: No truly (said Epaminondas) yet considering with my self that we have a World of covetous desires, some natural that are born with us, and bred in our flesh by the lusts pertaining to it: Others strange to us, grounded upon vain opinions, which taking setling, and becoming an habit in us by tract of time, and long use through evil education, oftentimes do draw us down, and weigh our Souls with more force and violence, than those that be connatural to us. For reason, through daily exercise of virtue, and practice thereof, is a means to free us from many of those things that are born, and bred with us. Yet we must use continual force and opposition against our concupiscences which are strangers to us, [Page] to quench them, and by all possible means to repress, and subdue them in us.

And when this is done, there is also (said he) an exercise of justice against greedy Covetousness, and a desire of getting, which is not, not to go rob our Neighbours Houses, nor, not to rob men by the High Way, nor not to betray our Friends, or Country for Mony: for such an one opposeth, not covetousness, but possibility, its Law, or fear that bridleth his covetous desire to offend: But that man that oftimes willingly abstains from just gains, he it is that by exercise keeps himself far from unjust, and unlawful taking of mony. For it is impossible in great pleasures that are wicked and dangerous, the Soul should contain it self from lusting after them, unless formerly, being oft at his choise to use them, he had contemned them. Its not easite to overcome them, nor to refuse great Riches when they are offered, unless a man long before hath killed in him this covetous desire of getting, the which, besides many other habits and actions, is still greedily bent shamefully to gain, pleasing himself in the pursuit of Injustice, hardly forbearing to wrong an other so he may benefit himself. But that man that disdaines to receive gifts from his Friends, and refuseth Presents offered him by Kings, and that hath rejected the bounty of Fortune, putting by all covetous desires of glistering Treasures laid before him, he shall never be tempted to do that which is unjust, nor shall his mind be troubled, but he will content himself quietly to do any thing that is honest, having an upright heart, finding nothing in it but that which is good and commendable. Yet was the Life of Epaminondas far more excellent than his discourse, as will appear by that which follows.

Diomedon, the Cizicenian, at the request of Artaxerxes, King of Persia, promised to win Epaminondas to take the Persians part. To effect this, he came to Thebes, and brought a great mass of Gold with him, and with three Thousand Crowns of it, he bribed a young man called Mycethus, who was greatly beloved by Epaminondas. This young man went to him and told him the occasion of the other mans coming to Thebes: But Diomedon being present, Epaminondas said to him, I have no need of mony: If the King of Persia wish well to the Thebans, I am at his service without taking one penny: If he hath any other meaning,His contempt of Riches. he hath not Gold nor Silver eno [...]gh wherewith to corrupt me: For I will not sell the love which I bear to my Country for all the Gold in the World: and as for thee that dost now tempt me, not knowing me, but judging me like unto thy self, I pardon thee for this time, but get thee quickly out of the City lest thou corrupt others, having failed to prevail over me: and for thee Mycethus, deliver him his mony again, which if thou dost not presently, I will send thee before a Justice.

Hereupon Diomedon besought him that he would let him go away in safety, and carry that with him which he brought thither: Yea (said Epaminondas) but it shall not be for thy sake, but for my honour-sake, lest thy Gold and Silver being taken from thee, some man should accuse me that I had a share in that privately which I had refused openly. Saying further, whither wouldst thou that I should cause thee to be conveyed? To Athens, said Diomedon: This was done accordingly, and he had a strong convoy sent with him, and that he might not be troubled by the way, betwixt the Gates of Thebes and the Haven wherein he was to imbark himself, Epaminondas gave Chabrias the Athenian charge of him, that he should see him safe at his journeys end.

Though Epaminondas was very Poor,His Poverty. yet would he never take any thing of his Citizens or Friends: and being so inured to poverty, he was enabled to bear it the more patiently by his study of Philosophy, For on a [Page] time, having the leading of an Army of the Thebans into the Country of Peloponnesus, he borrowed five Crowns of a Citizen for the defraying of his necessary charges in that Journey. Pelopidas being a man of great wealth and his very good Friend, could never possibly force upon him any part of his Goods, but he rather learned of him to love poverty. For Epaminondas taught him to think it an honour to go plainly in his Apparrel, to eat moderately, to take pains willingly, and in War to fight lustily. Yet when he had occasion to relieve others, he would make bold with his Friends goods, which in such cases were common to him, If any of his Citizens were taken Prisoners by the Enemy,His Charity. or if any Friend of his had a Daughter to be married, and was not able to bestow her, he used to call his Friends together, and to assess every one of them at a certain sum, after which he brought him before them who was to receive the mony, and told him how much every one had bestowed upon him, that he might return thanks to them all.

But once he went far beyond this: For he sent a poor Friend of his to a Rich Citizen of Thebes to ask of him six hundred Crowns, and to tell him that Epaminondas desired him to let him have them. The Citizen being amazed at his demand, went to Epaminondas to know what he meant to charge him so deeply, as to make him to give six hundred Crowns to the other? It is (said Epaminondas) because this man, being an honest man, is poor, and thou who hast robbed the Commonwealth of much, art rich.

He lived so soberly,His Sobriety. and was such an enemy to all superfluity and excess, that being on a time invited to Supper to one of his Neighbours, when he saw great preparation of dainty meats, made dishes, and perfumes, he said unto him, I thought thou hadst made a Sacrifice by this excess and superfluity, and so immediatly went his way. The like also he spake of his own Table, saying, that such an Ordinary, was never guilty of Traitors, and Treason. On a time being at a Feast with some of his Companions, he drank Vinegar, and when they asked him what he meant by it, and whether he drank it for his health or no? I know not (said he) but this I am sure of, it puts me in remembrance how I live at home. Now it was not that his stomach was an enemy to dainty meats, or that he lived so penuriously at home, for he was marvelous noble minded: But he did it, that by his strict and unreprovable life, he might bridle and restrain many insolencies and disorders which then raigned amongst the Thebans, and to reduce them to the former temperance of their Ancestors.

Upon a time, a Cook giving up an account to him and his Fellows of their ordinary expences for certain days, he could find fault with nothing but the quantity of Oyl that was spent: which his Companions marvelling at; Tush (said he) it is not the expence which offends me, but because we have poured in so much Oyl into our Bodies. The City of Thebes upon an occasion made a publick Feast, where they were very merry, and jolly: But on the contrary, Epaminondas went up and down without Oyl and perfumes, or decked with brave apparel, seeming very sad: Some of his Familiar Friends meeting him in this Posture, and wondering at him, asked him why he walked so alone, and ill apparelled through the City? Because (said he) you may in the mean time freely and safely drink your selves drunk,His Vigilance. and make merry, taking thought for nothing.

His Modesty also was such, that it would in no wise suffer him to seek advancement, but on the contrary he withdrew himself from Government, that he might with the more quiet apply himself to the study of Philosophy. It happened upon a time that the Lacedemonians intreated aid of [Page] the Thebans, who at that time were in League with them, and accordingly they sent them certain Foot Companies: at which time Epaminondas being about thirty five years old, Armed himself and went along with them. At this time it was, that that intimate Friendship began betwixt Pelopidas and him, which continued even to the end of their lives. These two being in a Battel the one by the other against the Arcatians, whom they had in front against them in the plains of Mantinea, it fell out that one of the points of the Battel of the Lacedemonians in which they were, retired, and many fled: But these two resolved rather to die than flie, and accordingly they stood to it gallantly, till Pelopid is being wounded in seven places, fell down upon a heap of dead Bodies.His Valour▪ Then did Epaminondas (though he took him for dead) step resolutely before him to defend his Body and Arms, he alone sighting against many, resolving rather to die in the place than to leave Pelopidas amongst the dead men, until that himself being thrust into the Breast with a Pike, and wounded in the Arm with a Sword, was ready to faint: at which time Providence so ordered it, that King Agesipolis came on with the other point of the Battel, and saved them both.

Not long after the Lacedemonians by a stratagem, won the strong Castle of Thebes called Cadmaea, and put a strong Garrison into it, and gave the Government of Thebes unto Archias, Philippus, and Leontidas, authors of all the mischief:Tyrants in Thebes. whereupon, to avoid their Tyranny, Pelopidas, and many others were fain to save themselves by flight, upon which they were banished by sound of Trumpet. But as for Epaminondas they as yet said nothing to him, but let him alone in the City: for he was contemned as a man of no account, because he was so much given to his Book: and if he should have any mind to stir against them, yet they judged he could do nothing because of his Poverty.

Whilest Pelopida and his Companions were at Athens, they laid a plot to free Thebes from those Tyrants: But Epaminondas not making a shew of any thing, had devised another way to effect it, by raising the hearts and courages of the young men of the City. For when they went out to play, and exercise themselves, he always found out a way to make them wrestle with the Lacedemonians; and when he saw the Lacedemonians throw them, and give them shrewd falls, they being the stronger, he would privately rebuke the Thebans and tell them, that it was a shame for them to suffer the Lacedemonians to set their Feet upon their Throats for want of courage, who yet were not half so strong, and boisterous as themselves were. All this while Pelopidas and his followers went on in their Plot, and had such good success, that one Night they got privily into the City of Thebes and met at Charons House about forty eight in number.His prudence▪ Epaminondas knew all this well enough, and at Night some took him aside and endeavoured to perswade him to joyn with them in delivering their City from those Tyrants, to whom he answered, that he had taken order with his Friends, and Gorgidas, to put themselves into a readiness upon any such occasion, but for his own part he would not have a hand in putting any of his Citizens to death, unless they were legally condemned: yet (said he) if you will make an attempt for the delivery of the City so as that it be without murther or blood-shed, I vvill joyn with you vvith all my heart: But if you will persevere in your former determination, pray you let me alone, pure, and not defiled vvith the blood of my Citizens, that being blameless I may take hold of another occasion vvhich may tend more to the good of the commonwealth. For the murthers that vvill be committed in this vvay, cannot be contained vvithin any reasonable bounds. I know indeed that Pherecides, and Pelopidas vvill especially set upon the Authors of the Tyranny: but Eumolpidas, and Samiadas, being fierce and Cholerick men, taking the liberty [Page] of the Night, will never sheath their Swords, till they have filled the whole City with Murther, and slain many of the chief Citizens. Besides, its very convenient for the People of Thebes, that some be left free, and blameless of these Murthers, and guiltless of all that should be done in the fury of this action.

Notwithstanding all that vvas said,The Tyrants slain. the enterprise vvas executed, and the Tyrants put to death, the City was restored to her ancient liberty, the Castle of Cadmaea was rendred up by composition, and Lysandradas, the Lacedemonian, and other Commanders that were in it, vvere suffered safely to depart, with their goods and Souldiers. This vvas the occasion of the long Wars which followed between the Lacedemonians and Thebans, vvith vvhom the Athenians joyned in League.

Epaminondas still applied himself to his Book:His Modesty. yet at last he vvas put forvvards by Pammenes, a chief man amongst the Thebans, and he began to follovv the Wars very eagerly, and in divers encounters gave good proof of his prudence, hardiness, and valour, insomuch as by degrees he attained to the highest charges of Government in the Commonvvealth:He is advanced to Honour. and his Citizens, vvho before made small account of him till he vvas forty years old, after, vvhen they knevv him better, they trusted him vvith their Armies, and he saved the City of Thebes, that vvas like to be undone, yea, and freed all Greece from the servitude of the Lacedemonians, making his Virtue, as in a cleer light, to shine vvith Glory, shevving the effects vvhen time served.

Upon a time Agesilaus, King of Lacedemon entered into Boeotia vvith an Army of tvventy thousand Foot, and five thousand Horse, vvherewith he harrased and spoiled all the plain Country, and presented Battel to the Thebans in the open Fields, which yet they would not accept of, finding themselves the weaker: Howbeit, they defended themselves so well by the assistance of the Athenians, and the wi [...]e conduct of Epaminondas and Pelopidas, that they caused Agesilaus to return home with his Army. But when he was gone,The Spartans beaten. the Thebans went with their Companies before the City of Thespies, which they surprized, and put to the Sword two hundred of the Garrison, and afterwards returned back with their Army to Thebes; and Phaebidas, the Lacedemonian, who was then Governour of that City, sallied out of the Town, and charged upon the Thebans in their retreat, who intertained him so hotly, that he lost five hundred of his men, and himself was slain in the Fight.

Not long after, the Lacedemonians returned with their former Army to make War with the Thebans, who having seized upon certain straights, and places of advantage, so blocked up the way, that they could not over run the Country, and spoil it as they had done before; yet did Agesilaus so molest, and trouble them,A Bat [...]el, that at last it came to a main Battel that held long, and was very cruel: and though at the first Agesilaus had the better, yet the Thebans charged him so furiously, that at the length he himself was wounded and forced to retire, being well paid for teaching the Thebans Military Discipline. And this was the first time that the Thebans knew themselves to be as strong and lusty as the Lacedemonians, whereupon they Triumphed in sign of Victory, and from that time forward, they grew more couragious to make head against the Enemy, and to present them battel. But that which most encouraged them, was, the presence of Epaminondas, who counselled, commanded, and executed very Wisely, Valiantly, and with great success.

At another time they went with a great number of chosen men before the City of Orchomene, where yet they prevailed not, because there was a strong Garrison of the Lacedemonians that sallied out upon them, and the [Page] Fight was very sharp between them: yet, though the Lacedemonians were far more in number,The Spartans beaten. the Thebans gave them the overthrow, which never happened to them before. For all other Nations thought that they had done excellent well, if with a far greater number they had overcome a small number of the Lacedemonians. But this Victory, and an other, which fell out shortly after under the conduct of Pelopidas, did so lift up and encourage the Thebans, that they became more famous than ever they were before.

The year following, Artaxerxes King of Persia, intending to make War against Aegypt, and therein to intertain diverse strangers, laboured to make Peace amongst the Grecians, in hope that they, being at Peace amongst themselves would be the more willing to have Souldiers lcavied amongst them. For which end he sent Ambassadours to all the Towns of Greece, to perswade and intreat them to be at Peace amongst themselves. The Greeks were very willing to harken hereto, being wearied on all sides with such long Wars, and so were easily drawn to make Peace;Peace among the Greeks. wherein it was especially agreed, and concluded, that all the Cities of Greece should be free, and use their own Laws: and Commissioners were sent abroad to withdraw all the Garrisons where any were kept. Unto this the Thebans only refused to agree, that every Town should severally capitulate for it, requesting that the Towns in the Country of Boeotia should be comprehended under the City of Thebes: but the Athenians mightily opposed themselves against this, and Calistratus, one of their Orators, made a notable Oration about it before all the States of Greece. Epaminondas on the contrary, made an excellent and vehement speech in defence of the right of the Thebans, insomuch as this controversie was left undecided, and the Treaty of Peace was universally agreed to amongst all the other Grecians, The Thebans are excepted. the Thebans only excepted, who were not comprised in it.

At this time the Athenians, and Lacedemonians, who had long contended amongst themselves about the Principality of Greece, now agreed, that the one should command by Sea, and the other by Land: And therefore they could not endure that the Thebans should aspire to be chief, which made them seek to dismember the other Towns of Boeotia from them, the rather, for that the Thebans, being strong and lusty of Body, and much encouraged by their late Victories over the Lacedemonians, would now contend with them for their superiority, having a wonderful confidence in the Wisdom and Prowess of their Captains, especially of Epaminondas.

Matters resting thus doubtful, the Citizens of Plataees, a Town of Boeotia, were desirous, to enter into League with the Athenians, promising that if they would send them Souldiers, they would put the Town into their hands: But the Governours of Boeotia having intelligence of it, and being desirous to prevent the Athenians, brought a party of Souldiers against it, who came before Plataees before the Citizens heard any news of them, so that part of them were surprised in the Field by the Horsemen, and the rest fled into the Town: where having no aid, they were faign to accept of such tearms as it pleased the Thebans to grant them, which were presently to depart the Town with bag and baggage,Plataees destroyed. and never to return again into the Country of Boeotia. Then did they raze the City to the ground, and sacked the Town of Thespies which also was at enmity with them.

The Ambassadours of Persia again solicited the Greeks to a General Peace, and Commissioners from every Town were to meet at Sparta about it. Epaminondas was yet scarce known, having laboured to conceal himself, and in all his exploits of War, had ever preferred the advancement of his great Friend, and Companion in Arms, Pelopidas, before himself. He was now chosen by the Thebans to go to Sparta, where, finding that the other Commissioners [Page] did much comply with Agesilaus, he spake boldly, and plainly, not only in behalf of the Thebans, His Wisdom. but for all Greece also: making it evident to all, that War still encreased the greatness of Sparta only, which kept all the other Towns of Greece under. He therefore advised them to establish a firm Peace, which would last the longer, when all comprized in it, should be equals.

Agesilaus perceiving all the Commissioners to be very attentive to and well pleased with this speech, he asked him a loud, if he thought it just, and equal, that all Boeotia should be set at liberty.His Courage. Epaminondas presently, and boldly asked him, if he thought it not also just and reasonable that all Laconia should be set at liberty? Thereupon Agesilaus, in great anger, stood up, and commanded him to answer plainly, if they should not restore all the Towns in Boeotia to their Liberty? and Epaminondas answered him as before. This so displeased Agesilaus (who had an old grudg to the Thebans) that immediately he put their Name out of the List of those that should be comprized within the Treaty of Peace, and proclaimed open War against them, and now there was no remedy but the Thebans must bear the whole brunt alone, for there was no one Town that durst send them any aid, because they were all sworn to the Peace, insomuch as all judged them to be utterly undone. Friends pittied there estate, and there enemies rejoyced, verily believing that they could never stand before the Lacedemonians.

Then did the Lacedemonians send King Cleombrotus with an Army towards Thebes, who being come near to Chaeronea with ten thousand Foot, and a thousand Horse, he pitched his Camp there staying for his Allies. The Thebans being informed of the approach of the enemy, chose Epaminondas to be their Captain General, giving him the charge of this War, with six other Counsellers to be assisting to him. Now there came Oracles to Thebes from all parts; some promising Victory, and others threatning their overthrow; and Epaminondas commanded them to set those on the right hand of the chair for Orations, that promised Victory, and the other on the left hand, which being so disposed of, he gat up into the chair, and said to his Citizens, If you will be obedient to your Captains, His Prudence. and valiant against your enemies, these Oracles on the right hand belong to you: But if through faintness of heart, ye refuse dangers, those on the left hand shall be your Portion.

Then did he list the Names of all the Thebans which were able to bear Arms, and chose out of some parts of Boeotia, such as he thought fittest for the Wars. His Presence exceedingly cheered up his Army, and all the the time that he was Captain, the Thebans never saw in their Camp any of those which they call sudden fears. He used to say, that there was no Death more honest and desirable than to die in the Wars, and that the body of a Souldier should be hardened to endure any labour or pains.Fat men cashired. He could not abide fat men, and therefore cashired a whole Company of them as unprofitable burdens in his Army. He had in all, but six thousand fighting men: and as they marched forwards, they met with some unlucky signs, as many esteemed them: but he valued them not, thinking that a resolution to fight in a good cause, ought to be much stronger, and of more force to raise in him good Hope, than these evil signs that appeared, to make him fear the worst.

As he was marching towards the Lacedemonians, they heard it Thunder, and they that were neer him, asked him what that meant, He answered, that it betokened that the Enemies brains were troubled, and beclouded, who, having places of advantage hard by them, yet encamped in the plaines. Indeed the Lacedemonians waited there for their Allies, who yet failed them. For all of them, having at leasure considered of the speech of Epaminondas at Sparta, began to distast the ambition of the Lacedemonians. Epaminondas seeing his advantage,His Prudence. caused his Army to march with speed, and wan the [Page] straights by the City of Coronea, and encamped there: Cleombrotus under [...] standing that the Thebans had possessed themselves of that pass, despairing to recover it, he made his Army to march a great compass about the Country of Phocide, going along the Sea Coast through a dangerous, and troublesome way, and so at the last he entered into the Country of Boeotia: and as he went, he took in some little Towns, and certain Gallies that lay upon the Coast, and at the last arrived at Leuctres, and there sat down to refresh his men, who were overwearied with their tedious march. Then did Epaminondas presently advance that way to meet them, and having passed over some little Mountains, he discovered them in the plain of Leuctres, where his men were much amazed to see so great an Army of their Enemies.

The six Counsellers came together to consider whether they should go forward and fight, few against many, or else retreat, waiting for some better advantage. In this Councel, their opinions fell out to be equal. Three judged it best to retreat, the other, whereof Epaminondas was one, thought it best to fight, and with these three, Pelopidas, who was Captain of the Sacred Band, joyned,And Policy. whereupon they all agreed to give them Battel. Epaminondas seeing his Souldiers somewhat affrighted at the former ill signs, to put courage into them, he suborned some that were newly come from Thebes, to scatter a report, that no man could tell at Thebes what was become of the Arms that hung up in the Temple of Hercules; but it was commonly said, that the Demigods, their Ancestors, had taken them away, to aid their posterity, at this present time. He caused another also, who was newly come from Trophonius hole, to report; that the God which gives his Oracles therein, commanded him to tell the Boeotians that when they had overcome their enemies in the plain of Leuctres, they should celebrate yearly Plays to the honour of Jupiter: and to gain the more credit to these devices, Leandridas, a Spartan, that was banished out of his own Country, and now was assisting the Boeotians, being brought before the Souldiers, he encouraged them to fight valiantly that Day: for he swore unto them, that the Lacedemonians had many Oracles, bidding them to beware of Leuctres.

Epaminondas also, assembling his Army, encouraged them with strong, and lively reasons, to shew their valour, so that at last the Souldiers being freed from their superstitious fears, longed for nothing more than to come to blows. Epaminondas ever concluded his Orations to them with these Words: O worthy men, embrace sacred Death: Advance your selves to a most honorable, and famous Fight for your Country, for the Tombs of your Ancestors, and for your Holy things. Just at this very time there came to the Thebans an aid of five hundred Horse, and fifteen hundred Foot, all Thessalians, conducted by Jason. This Jason endeavored to have made peace with both parties, but could not prevail.

Also as Cleombrotus retired with his Army out of Boeotia, he met a great supply of Lacedemonians, and their Allies, brought to him by Archidamus, the Son of Agesilaus, These he sent before, thinking to daunt the courage of the Thebans with the sight of them, and himself with the rest of his Army suddenly returned into the plain of Leuctres, being fully resolved to fight: and the Boeotians for their part shrunk not an inch back, and so on both sides they set their men in Battel array. Epaminondas ordered his Battel after a new fashion never practised by any Captain: For having chosen out of his Army the best, and most valiant Souldiers, he placed them together in one of the Points of his Battel, where himself meant to fight in Person, seconded by Pelopidas, and his three hundred chosen men, called the Holy Band: In the other Point he placed his weaker men, commanding them expresly not to abide the charge of their enemies that should assail them in Front, but fair, and softly retire when they saw them come near them: and it fell out as he wished: and he [Page] hoped to determine the Battel by the Virtue, and prowess of those where he had placed all the flower, and choice of his Army.

Now the sign of Battel being given,A Battel. the Lacedemonians advanced with the two Horns of their Battel, ordered in the form of a Crescent. On the contrary, one of the wings of the Battel of the Boeotians began to give back, and the other with great fury ran to charge the enemy in the Flank, and soon they were come to the Swords point, At the first, because either side fought desperately, the Victory for a time stood doubtful, but at last Epaminondas his Troop brake in amongst the Lacedemonians, and slew most of those that were about Cleombrotus. Yet while the King was alive, he kept back the Thebans from the Victory, being accompanied with all the flower of his Army, who fought very valiantly about him: But after he fell dead to the ground, having received and given an infinite number of wounds, then thronged they together on all sides, and there was a bloody and cruel fight about his Body, where were heaps of men slain one upon another, and though Epaminondas did all that possibly he could, yet the Lacedemonians made such resistance, that at last they forced the Thebans somewhat to give back, whereby they conveyed the Body of the King out of the press: But this continued not long: For Epaminondas both by his words and example, did so raise up and encourage the hearts of his men, that they fought like Lions, and gave so fierce a second charge upon their enemies,The Spartans beaten. that they wholly routed them and made them flie for life, and Epaminondas fiercely pusuing the flying enemy, made a great slaughter of them, and obtained the most glorious Victory that ever Captain won, having in a pitched Field overcome the most Noble, and warlike Nation of all Greece, and that with a far smaller number of men than his enemies had. He also rejoyced more in this, than in all his other Victories, because it happened to him in his Fathers life-time: and he often used to say, that of all the honest and happy Fortunes that befel him, nothing joyed his heart more, than that he vanquished the Lacedemonians at Leuctres, his Father and Mother living to see it: and indeed, he that day, did not only preserve their lives, but of all his Citizens besides, the Lacedemonians having fully resolved utterly to destroy the Thebans.

Epaminondas used at all other times to come abroad fine and neat,His Humility. and with a pleasant countenance: but the next day after this Battel, he came out very sad, heavy, and pensive, and when his Friends asked him, whether he had heard any ill news which occasioned this posture, he said, No: but (said he) I perceive by my self yesterday, that being overjoyed with the Victory I obtained, my heart was more elvated than it ought, and therefore to day I correct that joy, which yesterday exceeded its due bounds. He knowing that it was the manner of the Spartans, as much as possible, to conceal their losses, he suffered them not to carry away all their dead Bodies together, but every City one after another, by which it appeared that there were four thousand of them slain: But of the Boeotians there were not found above three hundred dead. This Battel was fought in the beginning of the second year of the hundred and second Olympiade.

The Lacedemonians having by this overthrow lost the greatest part of their honour, which they had maintained so long, yet lost not their courage; but to keep their youth still in heart, and to take away all fear from such as had escaped, they sent Agesilaus, with an Army into Arcadia, who was contented to take a few small Towns of the Mantineans, and so to return home again. Some say that Lycomedes, Captain of the Arcadians, making an inrode neer to Orchomene, slew in an encounter, Politropus, Captain of the Lacedemonians, and two hundred Spartans with him, which provoked the Lacedemonians against them: and thereupon the Arcadians, finding themselves too weak for them, they sought alliance and aid from the Thebans. Sure [Page] it is that these two States were now at enmity, which occasioned the Arcadians and Thebans to joyn together, who, with their Allies being led by Epaminondas entred into Laconia, with an Army of forty thousand men, besides thirty thousand others that followed the Camp. At this time the Athenians sent Captian Iphecrates, with twelve thousand men, to aid the Lacedemonians: But before their coming,He plunders Laconia, Epaminondas was entered into Laconia, and had sacked all the Country which had not been wasted by any enemy for six hundred years before.

The Spartans seeing their Country thus plundred, and destroyed, were desirous to have gone out with such Forces as they had, but Agesilaus would not suffer them, telling them how dangerous it was for them to leave their City, and to set upon such a potent, and numerous enemy. This made them quiet, and Epaminondas in the mean time marched with his Army towards the River Eurotas, which at that time was risen very high, because of the Winter rains. He endeavoured all he could, to draw forth Agesilaus to a Battel, who beholding Epaminondas a great while, marching with his Army in Battel aray along the River side at the Head of his Troops,He bravos the Spartans. he wondered at his boldness, and Valour, but would by no means adventure out of his Fort: So that when this Army had plundred all Laconia, Epaminondas led them back again with a very rich Booty. And though Agesilaus was commended for preserving his City in safety; yet Epaminondas had by this inrode, and especially by his Victory at Leuctres, so impoverished the Country, that Sparta could never after recover that loss, nor grow into that reputation and power which it had before. Yea, notwithstanding the aid sent by the Athenians, and the skill and experience of Iphecrates, Epaminondas returned with his Army intire as he came.

Epaminondas that he might keep the Lacedemonians still underfoot, and heap new troubles upon them, gave Counsel to the Arcadians, and their Allies, to reedifie, and replenish with People the City of Messina, which the Lacedemonians had long before destroyed, and when all the whole Councel had given their consents to it,Messina reedified. he forthwith, by diligent enquiry sought out all that had been ancient Inhabitants in that City, and in the space of eighty five Days, having repaired the ruined Houses, he raised again one of the most Noble, and ancient Cities of Greece, and left there a strong Garrison for their security. This gat him as much, if not more love and honour than any other service which he had ever done.

The Lacedemonians being freed from a great fear by his departure, made an agreement with the Athenians, leaving to them the chief command by Sea, and reserving to themselves that by Land. And afterwards, by the assistance of the Athenians and that aid which came to them out of Sicily, by little and little they recovered their Towns again.

The Arcadians, to stop their proceedings, assaulted the City of Pallene in Laconia, Pallene destroyed. and taking it by storm, put all the Garrison therein to the Sword, and then razed the Town, and plundred all the Country there abouts. And expecting that the Lacedemonians would seek revenge, they sent for aid to the Thebans, who sent Epaminondas and the other Counsellers to assist them with six thousand Foot, and five hundred Horse. The Athenians having intelligence hereof, sent their Army under the conduct of Chabrias, who marched directly to Corinth, where he met with a good supply of Souldiers from the Megarians, Pallenians, and Corinthians, so that now he had a Brigade of ten thousand men. These intended to fortifie and stop all the passages and entrances into the Country of Peloponnesus. The Lacedemonians and their Allies joyning also with them, made up an Army of twenty thousand men:Peloponnesus fortified. And accordingly, beginning at the City of Cencrees, unto the Haven of Lecheum, they blocked all the ways [Page] from one Sea to another with mighty great pieces of Timber laid across, and with a marvellous deep Diteh: and this great work was followed with such speed, both by reason of the great multitude of labourers, as also through the frowardness of them that prosecuted it with such earnestness, that they had quite finished it before the Boeotians could arrive there.

Epaminondas when he came thither, viewing this fortification, perceiving that the easiest place to storm it, was that which the Lacedemonians themselves guarded, he sent to give them defiance though they were thrice as many in number as he was, yet for all this they durst not come out, but kept close under their fortification: Notwithstanding he assaulted them in it, and at last drave them out. In the heat of the fight every one doing his best, some assailing, others defending, Epaminondas chose out the valiantest men in all his Army, and bravely charging the Lacedemonians, he forced them to give back, and in dispite of them, he entered into Peloponnesus, which of all other his Noble exploits, was the most wonderful and memorable action. From thence he marched to the Cities of Epidaure, and Trozen, He beats the Spartans. and so pillaged all the Country: But he stayed not to take any of the Towns, because they had strong Garrisons in them: Yet he put Sicyone, Phuente, and some other Towns into such fear, that they yielded themselves to him.

This being done, he went to Corinth, and overcame the Corinthians in a set Battel, and beat them home, even to the Gates of their City: Yea some of his men were so unadvised, trusting to their own Valour, that they entered the Gates of their City pel mel with those that fled, which put the Corinthians into such a terrible fear, that they ran with all speed possible to shelter themselves in their Houses: But Chabrias making head, beat them out again, and slew some, whereupon he caused a token of Triumph to be set up, as if he had given the Thebans an overthrow, for which Epaminondas laughed him to scorn. The Boeotians brought their Army as neer unto Corinth as they could, and Chabrias with his Army encamped without the Walls in a very strong Place of advantage, and there were many Skirmishes betwixt them, in which Chabrias behaved himself with such Valour that he gained great reputation even of Epaminondas himself, who upon a time being asked, whom he thought to be the greatest Captain, himself, Chabrias, or Iphecrates? Its hard (said he) to judg whilst we are all alive,

News was brought to him that the Athenians had again sent an Army into Peloponnesus, furnished with new Armor: Indeed this Army consisted of ten thousand Spaniards and Gauls, whom Dyonisius the Tyrant, sent out of Sicily to aid the Lacedemonians, having paid them for five months: they did some reasonable service in this War, and at the end of Summer returned home again.

It fell out in these last encounters that Epaminondas having forced the Lacedemonians that guarded the fortification before mentioned, had many of them in his power to have slain them: but he contented himself only with this Glory, that in dispite of them, he had entered into Peloponnesus, seeking to do them no more hurt; which gave occasion to those that envied his Glory, to blame him, and to accuse him of Treason, as having willingly spared the enemies,His Clemency. because they should in particular thank him only: But here it will not be improper to take notice how he behaved himself amongst his Citizens, and how wisely he defended his own Integrity.

Amongst all those that envied his Glory and Virtue,He is envied. there was one Meneclides, an Orator, and an eloquent man, but withall, most wicked, and very malicious. He finding that E [...]aminondas won so much honour [Page] by the Wars, never left perswading the Thebans to embrace Peace; and prefer it before War, and that because hereby they should not always live under the obedience, and command of one man. But Epaminondas one day told him in the open Counsel: Thou wilt (said he) deceive the Thebans whilst thou advisest them to leave the Wars: and highly commended ease and Peace, thou goest about to put iron bolts upon their Feet. For War begets Peace, which yet cannot hold long but amongst them that know how to maintain it with the Sword. Then turning himself to the Citizens, he said, If you will have the Principality and command of all Greece, you must shroud your selves in your Tents, and lie in your Pavillions in the open Fields, and not follow Sports and Pastimes here at home. For he knew well enough that the Boeotians undid themselves by ease and Idleness, which made him endeavour continually to keep them in exercise and War.

Upon a time when the Thebans were to choose Captains, they went about to choose Epaminondas, one of the six Counsellours: whereupon he said to them: My Masters, pray you consider of it now you are at leasure before you choose me: For I tell you plainly, If I be chosen your Captain, you must to the Wars. He used to call the Country of Boeotia, which was a plain, and Champion Country, the Stage of War, saying, that it was impossible to keep it, unless the Inhabitants had their Targets on their Arms, and their Swords in their hands: and this was not, because he did not love Peace, and privacy to study Philosophy, or that he was not more careful of them that were under his charge than he was of himself, using always to watch and forbear his meat, when the Thebans were at their Banquets, and Feasts, giving themselves over to their pleasures: but because he knew them well enough, and was never more careful of any thing than to keep his Army from Idleness.

Upon a time the Arcadians desired him that some of his Companions might come into one of their Towns to lie dry and warm there, all the Winter, but he would by no means yield to it. For (said he to his Souldiers) now they see you exercising your selves in Arms, they wonder at you as brave and valiant men; but if they should see you at the Fire side parching of Beans, they would esteem no better of you than of themselves. Neither could he endure Covetuousness: for if at sometimes he gave his men leave to go a free booting, his meaning was, that whatsoever they got, should be bestowed in furnishing them with good Arms: and if any went about to fill his Purse with money, he judged him unworthy to be a Souldier. Upon a time he understood that his Target-bearer had received a great sum of money for the ransom of a Prisoner, whereupon he said to him: Give me my Target, and go thy ways home, and buy thee a Tavern wherein to spend the rest of thy life: for I perceive thou wilt no more, like an honest man, put thy self in danger in the wars, as formerly thou hast done, because now thou art grown rich and wealthy.

Though Epaminondas was thus virtuous, and unblameable in his life, yet the aforementioned Meneclides would never cease contending, and reproaching of him: and one day he went so far as to upbraid him because he had no Children, and was not married, and that he magnified himself more than ever King Agamemnon had done.His prudence. To this Epaminondas answered, Thou hast nothing to do to counsel me to marry, and in this respect, there is never a man here whose advise I would less make use of than thine, (and this he spake because the other was taken notice of to be an Adulterer,) And whereas thou thinkest that I envy the fame and renown of Agamemnon, thou art fouly deceived. Yet let me tell thee, that whereas he was ten Years in winning one City, I on the contrary, by putting [Page] the Lacedemonians to flight in one day, have delivered not only our own City, but all Greece from their slavery, But thanks be to you? My Lords Thebans (speaking to all the Assembly) by your assistance I did it, and thereby overthrew the power and government of our insulting enemies.

Yet after all his brave deeds,Heis accused and abused. both he and Pelopidas: were ill rewarded for all their good service, by their ingrateful Citizens: For at their return from Laconia, they, with some other of the six Counsellers, were accused, that after the time that their Government was expired, they retained their power four months after the time appointed by the Law. With much ado Pelopidas was quitted: But Epaminondas willed all his other Companions to lay the fault upon him, who by his Authority forced them to it; and instead of excusing himself, he told them all the brave exploits which he had done at that time: Adding withal, that he was willing and ready to die, if they so pleased, Provided that they wrote upon his Tomb, that Epaminondas was put to death, because he had compelled the Thebans against their wills to burn the Country of Laconia, which in five hundred years before had never been plundered. That he had repeopled the City of Messina with Inhabitants, two hundred and thirty years after it had been laid wast by the Lacedemonians. That he had brought all the People and Towns of Arcadia to be as one Body, in League together, and had set all the Greeks at liberty: and all these things (said he) we did in that Journey. The Judges when they heard this worthy and true defence, they all arose from their seats, and laughed heartily, and would not take up their Balls to Ballot against him.

But for the second accusation, to wit, that he had shewed favour to the Lacedemonians for his own particular honour, he would make no particular answer to it before the People, but rising out of the Theater, he passed through the Assembly and went into the Park of Exercises. Upon this the People being incensed against him, refused to chuse him into Office as they had wont to do, though there was a great need of him, and created other Counsellers to go into Thessaly: and the more (as they thought) to despite him, they commanded him to go that expedition as a private Souldier, which he refused not, but went very willingly.

Pelopidas being sent a second time into Thessaly to make peace between the People and Alexander the Tyrant of Pheres, Pelopidas imprisoned by a Tyrant. was by this Tyrant (not regarding that he was an Ambassadour, and a Theban) committed to Prison, together with Ismenias. Upon this, the Thebans being justly offended, sent an Army of eight thousand Foot and five hundred Horse against him, howbeit under the conduct of unskilful Captains, who, wanting judgment to use their advantages, thought good to return home without doing any thing: But as they went back, Alexander, being stronger in Horse than they, pressed hard upon their Reer, killing some, and wounding others; so that the Thebans knowing neither how to go forward nor backward, were in great distress; and that which aggravated their misery was, that their Victuals were almost spent. Being thus almost out of hope ever to get home in safety, Epaminondas being at that time a common Souldier among the Foot, both the Captains and Souldiers earnestly intreated him to help to redress this disorder. He thereupon chose certain Footmen that were light armed,His Policy. and all the Horsemen, and with these putting himself into the Rere of the Army, he so lustily repulsed the Enemy, that the rest of the Army afterwards marched in great safety, and still making Head, as occasion served, and keeping his Troops in good order, he at last brought them all well home.

This brave Act Crowned him with new Glory, confounded his enemies, [Page] and made him well spoken of every where, and by it he obtained the love and good will of the Citizens, who set great Fines upon the heads of those Captains who had behaved themselves so unworthily in that expedition. And now the People seeing that by so many worthy deeds he had stopped the slanderous mouths, and confuted the accusations of his ill willers, they chose him again their Captain General to conduct a new Army into Thessaly: At his coming all the Country wonderfully rejoyced, only the Tyrant with his Captains, and Friends were exceedingly dejected, and possessed with fear, being Thunderstruck with the fame of so Noble a Captain, and his Subjects had a good mind to rise up against him, hoping that they should shortly see the Tyrant fully recompenced for all the wicked and cursed deeds that he had done amongst them.

Epaminondas when he came into Thessaly, preferred the safety and deliverance of his Friend Pelopidas before his own Honour and Glory,His Prudence. and fearing lest Alexander when he should see himself and his State in danger to be overthrown, should in his rage revenge himself upon Pelopidas, he therefore purposely drew this War out in length, marching often about him, but never setting upon him in good earnest, often seeming to make preparations, and yet still delaying: and this he did, to mollifie the heart of this Tyrant, and not to provoke (to the danger of his Friend) the inhumane and unbridled passion of this cruel Bloud-sucker. Yet he being a Monster compounded of cruelty, and cowardliness, was so afraid of the very name and reputation of Epaminondas, that he presently sent some to him to excuse his fact, and to crave Peace. But Epaminondas was not willing that his Thebans should make Peace and Alliance with so wicked a man, only he was content to grant him a Truce for thirty Days,Pelopidas released. upon the delivering to him Pelopidas and Ismenias.

So with them he returned back to Thebes, and always continued a faithful Friend to Pelopidas so long as they lived together: Yet would he never share with him in his Riches, but did still persevere in his former strict Poverty and Discipline. He was very bold, and yet it was mingled with a winning sweetness, and a lively grace, as may appear in sundry Examples. Besides his bold speech to Agesilaus, mentioned before: At another time the Argians having made a League with the Thebans, the Athenians sent their Ambassadors into Arcad [...]a, to see if they could gain the Arcadians to be their Friends, And these Ambassadors began roundly and hotly to charge and accuse both the one and the other, and Callistratus speaking for them, reproached them with Orestes, and Oedipus: Epaminondas being present at that Assembly, stood up,His witty Speeches. and said, My Lords, we confess that in times past we had a man that killed his Father, and in Argos, one that killed his Mother, but as for us now, we have banished all such wicked Murtherers out of our Country, and the Athenians have intertained them.

At another time when the Spartans had laid many great and grievous imputations to the charge of the Thebans, he said, If they have done nothing else, my Lords of Sparta, yet at least they have made you forget to speak little. But that which was most excellent, and observable in Epaminondas, and which indeed did stop the mouth of envy it self was his moderation, and temperance, knowing how to use any state or condition, and never to rage either against himself or others, always, bearing this mind, that howsoever they took him, and in what place soever they set him, he was well contented, so that he might but advance the good of his Country: As may appear by this Example: on a time his evil-willers, thinking to bring him into disgrace, and meerly out of spite, made him superintendant or overseer of all the customs, whilst others of his inferiors, unworthy to be compared with him, were placed in the most honourable Offices: Yet [Page] despised he not this mean Office,H [...]s Humility. but discharged it very Faithfully: For (said he) the Office or Authority shews not only what the man is, but also the man what the Office is.

Shortly after Epaminondas was returned out of Thessaly, the Arcadians were overcome by Archidamus and the Lacedemonians, who in the fight lost not a man, and therefore they called this journey the tearless Battel: and Epaminondas foreseeing that the Arcadians would yet have another storm, he gave them counsel to fortifie their Towns, which they did accordingly,Megalopolis built. and built that City which afterwards was called Megalopolis, situated in a very convenient place. Whilst the Thebans made War with the Elians, their Neighbours, the mind of Epaminondas was always lifted up to high enterprizes for the good of his Country, wherefore in an Oration which he made to his Citizens, he perswaded them to make themselves strong by Sea, and to endeavour to get the principality, and to make themselves the Lords thereof. This Oration was full of lively reason, whereby he shewed and proved unto them, that the enterprize was both honourable, and profitable, which he made out by sundry Arguments, telling them that it was an easie thing for them, who were now the stronger by Land, to make themselves also the stronger by Sea: and the rather, for that the Athenians in the War against Xerxes, though they had armed and set forth two hundred Gallies, armed and well appointed with men, yet they willingly submitted themselves to the Lacedemonians. He alleadged many other reasons, whereby he prevailed so far, that the Thebans were willing to undertake the enterprize, and thereupon gave present order to build an hundred Gallies,The Thebans build a Navy. and an Arsenal with so many Rooms that they might lay them under covert in the Dock: They ordered also to send to them of Rhodes, and of Chio, and of Byzantium, to desire their furtherance in this enterprize: for which end Epaminondas was sent with an Army unto these Cities: In his Passage he met with Leches, a Captain of the Athenians, with a number of Ships in his Fleet, who was set on purpose to hinder this design of the Thebans: Yet Epaminondas so affrighted him, that he made him retire back again, and holding on his course he brought the aforenamed Cities to enter into League with the Thebans. Shortly after the Thebans fell out with the City of Orchomene, which had done them great hurt, and mischief, and having won it by assault, slew all the men that were able to bear Arms, and made all the women and children Slaves.

Some time after the death of Pelopidas, certain private Persons of Mantinea, fearing to be called to an account for their bad behaviours, and robberies which they had committed, if the Arcadians and Elians should agree, they so brought it about, that they raised a new quarrel in the Country,New Wars. which was divided into two Factons, whereof the Mantineans were the chief on the one side, and the Tageates on the other. This quarrel went so far, that the Parties would needs try it by Arms. The Tageates sent to request aid of the Thebans, who accordingly chose Epaminondas their Captain General, and sent him with a good number of men of War to aid the Tageates. The Mantineans being terrified with this aid that came out of Boeotia to their enemies, and at the reputation of their Captain, they immediately sent to the Athenians, and Lacedemonians, the greatest enemies of the Boeotians, for their assistance, which both the Cities granted. Upon this there fell out many and great skirmishes in divers parts of Peloponnesus: and Epaminondas being not far off from Mantinea, understood by some of the Country men, that Agesilaus, and his Lacedemonians, were come into the Field, and that they wasted [Page] all the Territories of the Tageates; whereupon, judging that there were but few men left in the City of Sparta to defend it, he undertook a great exploit, and dangerous, and had certainly effected it, if the marvelous good Fortune of Sparta had not hindred it.A notable attempt. His design was this: He departed from Tegea, by Night, the Mantineans knowing nothing of it, and taking a by way, he had certainly surprised Sparta without striking a stroak, had not a Post of Candia speedily carried word of it to Agesilaus, who immediately dispatched away an Horse-man to give intelligence to them of Sparta to stand upon their guard, and he himself speedily hasted after, and arrived there a little before the coming of the Thebans, who being very near the City a little before day, they gave an assault to them that defended it. This made Agesilaus to bestir himself wonderfully, even beyond the strength of so old a man: But his Son Archidamus, and Isadas, the Son of Phoebidas fought valiantly on all parts. Epaminondas seeing how prepared the Spartans were to oppose him, began then to suspect that his design was discovered; yet notwithstanding he left not off to force them all he could, though he fought with great disadvantage, considering the places wherein he was: yea, he continued fighting courageously, till the Army of the Lacedemonians came on, and till the Night approached, whereupon he sounded a retreat.

Then being informed that the Mantineans came on also with their Forces, he withdrew his Atmy somewhat father off from the Town, and there Camped. After which he caused his men to refresh themselves with Victuals, and leaving certain Horsemen in the Camp, he commanded them to make fires in the moring, and in the mean time himfelf with the rest of his men,Another but frustrated. went to surprize Mantinea before any should discover that he was departed. Yet herein also he failed of his purpose, the prosperity of the Thebans being come to its height, and the course of Epaminondas his Life drawing neer to an end, whereby Greece was deprived of this Noble and Famous Captain, from whom was taken a most notable Victory, and that twice, by strange accidents.

For at the second time, when he was come neer to Mantinea that was left without guard and defence, just then, on the other side of the Town there arrived six thousand Athenians, conducted by their Captain Hegelecus, who having put sufficient force into the Town, ordered the rest of his Army in Battel array without the Walls, and immediately also came the Mantineans, and Lacedemonians together, who prepared to put all to the hazard of a Battel, and therefore sent for their Allies from all parts: and when they were come together they were in all twenty five thousand Foot, and two thousand Horse. The Arcadians, Boeotians, and their partakers were thirty thousand Foot,A Battel. and three thousand Horse. When they came to the Battel, first the Horse charged with great Fury, and the Horsemen of the Athenians encountering with the Thebans, proved too weak for them, not because they were less valiant, or hardy than the other, but because they had not so good Chieftains, and had few Archers amongst their Troops. The Thebans on the other side were all excellently well appointed, and had Thessalians amongst them, men very skilful in their Bows, who so plied the Athenians that they wholly brake them, and put them to the rout, yet in their flight they did not run amongst their Foot-men, which made them somewhat recover their Honour which they had lost by running away. On the contrary part, as they fled, they met with some Companies of Negropont, whom the Arcadians had sent to take in certain Hills hard by the [Page] plain where the Battel was fought, whom they put all to the Sword.

The men at Arms of the Thebans seeing them turn their backs, did not pursue them at all, but presently gave charge upon a great Battalion of Foot-men, forcing them all they could to break, and run through them. So the fight was very cruel and sharp, yet in the end the Athenians were forced to quit the place: whereupon a Collonel of Horsemen of the Elians, who stood as a reserve to guard the Rere, defended them, and encountering with the Boeotians, he resisted them, and made them give back, which reinforced the fault of the left point of their Army. But in the right point, after the Horse-men had charged one another, the fight was soon determined: For by reason of the great number of men at Armes of the Thebans, and Thessalians, the Mantineans and their partakers were soon put to rout, and having lost a great number of their men, they sheltered themselves under the Battalion of their Foot-men, and this was the issue of the fight between the Horse-men,

As for the infantry, after they came once to the Sword, it was a marvellous bloody, and cruel fight. For never before that time was there so many Greeks in the Field one against another, nor so great and expert Captains, nor such Valiant Souldiers as were now. The two Nations that at that time bare the Name to be the bravest Footmen in all the World, to wit, the Thebans, and Lacedemonians, were now set in Front one against the other, and they began to charge, neither sparing Life nor Limb. The first charge they gave was with their Pikes, which being soon broken with the huge blows they gave each other, then they came to it with their Swords, and lustily laying about them, Body to Body, Death raged in every place, and there was a mighty carnage made: for neither part shrunk back, or gave over with weariness, but stood to it like undaunted men. And so continued this dangerous Fight for a long time, by reason of the valiantness of either party, the Victory stood doubtful for a great while, and it could not be judged which side was like to have the upper hand, For every one that fought, had this resolution in his heart, not to fear Death whatsoever befel them: But rather desiring to make proof of their utmost Valour, they willingly parted with their lives to lye in the Bed of Honour. By reason whereof, though the fight was sharp and cruel, yet the event remained for a long space so uncertain, that it could not be discerned to which side the Victory should fall.

But at last, Epaminondas seeing no other remedy, but that the issue of this doubtful Fight depended upon his own Virtue and Valour, he resolved with himself to adventure his life upon it: and presenty gathering about him all the best, and choisest men of his Army, and of them having compounded a Company of stout and resolute Blades, he ran with great fury into the thickest, and greatest press of all his enemies, marching himsels the foremost man in all his Troop, with a Spear in his hand, with the which at the first blow he gave, he slew the Captain of the Lacedemonians, and straightway the rest of his Company began to assail their enemies. But Epaminondas laying about him like a lion, slew so many in the place where he stood with his own hands, that at last he opened the Battel of the Lacedemonians, whom he pursued and laid on them so lustily, that they being unable any longer to defend themselves against the irresistable fury of himself and his followers, were enforced to give back and leave the place to the Boeotians, who yet followed them at their heels, beating them down so eagerly, that in a short [Page] space the whole Field was covered with dead Bodies, lying on heaps one upon another.

But in the end, the Lacedomonians seeing that they could no way save themselves, gathered courage out of despair, and a Company of them joyning together, all set upon Epaminondas throwing an infinte number of Darts at him, of which some he avoided, others he received upon his Target, but yet there were many that stuck in his Body which he pulled out, and fought with the same Weapons against those that had thrown them at him. At last, when he had done more than a man, and beyond all humane strength, thereby to win Honour to his Country by gaining them the Victory, a certain Laconian called Anticrates, thrust him into the Breast with a Dart with such force,He is deadly wounded. as breaking the Wood, he left the Iron Head sticking in his Body. Having received this deadly wound he fell immediately to the ground: But then was there a more cruel fight about him than ever there was before, which occasioned great Slaughter on both sides, till the Thebans by fine force made their enemies to flie for their lives, and when they had pursued them a while, they returned back to their Camp that they might keep the dead Bodies in their Power, which was a certain Sign that the Victory was theirs, and then they sounded a retreat, and so the Battel ended.

Both sides challenged the Victory and made Triumphs for it. The Lacedemonians did it, because the Athenians had slain those of Negropont that were sent to seize upon the Hills before mentioned, and kept their bodies in their power.The Spartans beaten. The Thebans on the other side having overcome the Spartans, had the bodies of them that were slain in the Battel, in their power, which was by far the greater number, wherefore they said, that they were the Victors, Thus both standing upon their tearms, it was a good while before either would send a Trumpet or Herauld to the other for leave to bury their dead. Yet at last the Lacedemonians sent first, and then they all betook themselves to give the dead an Honourable Burial. And as for him that had killed Epaminondas, he was highly esteemed and honoured for his Valiant Act, and the Lacedemonians gave him many rich Presents, and made him and his Posterity free from all publick Taxes and contributions in the Common-wealth.

As for Epaminondas he was brought yet alive into his Tent; howbeit his Physitians, and Surgeons being called together to dress his Wounds: they all concluded that so soon as they plucked the Head of the Dart out of his body, he must needs die. And truly he made a most noble and worthy end. For first he called for his Target-bearer, who was always at his hand in the Battel, and asked him: Is my Target safe? He brought it straight. Then he asked, Who had the Victory? The Boeotians answered, the Target-bearer. Then he commanded them to bring to him Diophantus and Jolidas: they told him they were both dead: Upon this he advised his Citizens to make Peace with their enemies,His advice to the Thebans. for that they had not any Captain of skill to lead them to the Wars. And now (said he) it is time for me to die, and therefore pluck the Dart Head out of my Body. At this word all his Friends that were about him fetched grievous sighs, and even cryed out for sorrow: and one of them weeping, said unto him: Alas Epaminondas! Thou diest now and leavest no Children behind thee: Yea (said he) that I do: For I leave two fair Daughters behind me, whereof the one is the Victory at Leuctres,His Death. and the other this of Mantinea. So they pulled out the Dart, and immediately he gave up the Ghost, without shewing any sign that he was at all troubled at it.

[Page] He used often to say, That War is the Bed of Honour, and that it is a sweet Death to dye for ones Country. His Character. He was one of the bravest Captains that ever we read of: For whereas others excelled in some one or two Virtues by which they made their Fame great and glorious, he excelled in all the Vertues and good Parts that could be desired in a Grave, Politick and great Captain, to make him compleat in all things that could be expected in an Heathen. In his time he advanced his Country to the Principality of all Greece. But after his Death they soon lost it: and not long after Alexander the Great, utterly brake them in pieces, made Slaves of those that survived, and razed their City to the very ground. As in his life time he had always detested covetousness, so after his Death the Thebans were faign to bury him at the common charge of the City,His Poverty. because they found no mony in his House to defray the least part of the Funeral expences.

THE WICKED LIFE AND WOFUL DEATH OF HEROD the GREAT, In whose time Our LORD CHRIST was Born.

[Page]

HEROD, Herods Pedegree. sirnamed the Great, was the Son of Antipas, or Antipater, an Idumaean, a prime man, both for birth and wealth, amongst them: His Mothers name was Cyprus, born at an eminent place amongst the Arabians, so that when this Herod acquired the Kingdom of Judea, that Prophesie of old Jacob was fulfilled, Gen. 49. 10. The Scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a Law-giver from between his feet, until Shiloh come.

This Antipater, riding his circuit about the Province of Judea, whereof Julius Caesar had made him Governour, repressed them who were desirous of innovation, both by threats and counsel, telling them, that if they would be content with their Prince Hyrcanus, (whom Caesar also had confirmed in the High-Priesthood) they might live happily in their own possessions: but if they promised themselves new hopes, and thought that they should gain much by innovations, they should have him a Master instead of a Governour, and Hyrcanus a Tyrant instead of a King: and Caesar, and the Romans, bitter enemies instead of Princes; for that they would by no means suffer any thing to be altered from what they had setled. But Antipater perceiving Hyrcanus to be dull and idle, he settled the state of the Province as himself pleased, making his elder Son, Phasaelus, Governour of Jerusalem, and the Countries adjoyning; and to Herod his second Son, being then a very young man, he committed the care of Galilee.

Herod being Praefect of Galilee, Herod is made Governour of Galilee. there was one Esekias, a Jew, who, associating [Page] to himself many other lewd persons, exercised thievery, and used to make incursions into Syria in Troops:He puts Esekias to death. These Herod pursued, and having taken Esekias, he put him to Death; which fact of his, gat him much favour with the Syrians, which Province also was then under his Government.

The violence, and bold nature of Herod, who was desirous of the Tyranny, much terrified the Princes of the Jews, wherefore they addressed themselves to Hyrcanus, and openly accused Antipater; but especially they complained of Herod, for that he had put to death Esekias, with many others, without any Commission from Hyrcanus, in contempt of their Laws, by which, no man ought to suffer, though never so wicked, unless he were first condemned by the Judges. The Mothers also of them that were killed, ceased not daily in the Temple to weary both the King and the people with their continual exclamations, desiring that Herod might be made to give an account of these his doings before the Sanhedrim: He is cted before the Sanhedrim. whereupon Hyrcanus, moved herewith, commanded Herod to be called before the Council, and to plead his own cause.

Herod, having ordered the affairs of Galilee, as he thought best for his own advantage, being fore-warned by his Father, that he should not come into the Council as a Private Person, he took with him a moderate, but yet a sufficient Guard: not too great, lest he should terrifie Hyrcanus, nor too little, lest he should expose himself to danger from the Judgment. When Herod therefore presented himself before the Sanhedrim in his Royal Robes,Appears with his Guard. and his Guard in Arms, they were all astonished, neither durst any one of them that accused him in his absence, now speak a word against him; but all of them kept silence,Sameas his boldness. not knowing what to do. Then one of the Council, called Sameas, a just man, being not at all distracted with fear, rose up, and not only accused Herod of presumption and violence, but laid the fault upon the Judges, and King himself, who had granted him so great a liberty, and told them, that afterwards,A prediction. by the just Judgment of God, they should be punished by Herod himself; and the event made him a true Prophet. For the Judges of that Council, and Hyrcanus himself, were afterwards put to death by Herod, when he came to be King. But Hyrcanus perceiving that the Judges were inclining to pass sentence of Death upon Herod, put off the business till the next day,Herod slyes. and privately advised him to shift for himself; and so he departed to Damascus, as if he fled from the King, and presenting himself before Sextus Caesar, Refused to appear when again cited. and having secured his own affairs, he professed openly, that if he were again cited by the Judges, he would not appear; which they took in great disdain, and endeavoured to perswade Hyrcanus that all these things tended to his destruction.

Herod, Is made Governour of Calosyria. to increase his power, gave a great sum of money to Sextus Caesar, who thereupon made him Governour of Caelosyria: He, being elated with this advancement, and taking it impatiently that he had been called before the Council, raised an Army, and went against Hyrcanus: But his Father Antipater, and Brother Phasaelus meeting him, by their intreaties prevailed, that he should not go against Jerusalem, but be content to have affrighted them, adding that it would be dishonourable for him, if he should attempt any thing farther against him that had advanced him to his dignity; hereupon he desisted, judging it sufficient for his future hopes, that he had shewed to that Nation of what power he was.

Cassius and Marcus, Is confirmed in it. two Roman Generals, coming into Syria, after the death of Julius Caesar, confirmed Herod in his Government of Caelosyria, and delivered to him great Forces both of Horse and Foot, and Ships at Sea, promising him also the Kingdom of Judea, after the War should be ended, which they were waging with M. Anthony and young Caesar.

Not long after, Antipater (the Father of Herod) was feasted at Hyrcanus [Page] his house,Antipater poysoned. at which time, one Malichus, corrupting the Kings Butler, poysoned Antipater, and presently raising a band of Souldiers, seized upon the Government of the City of Jerusalem. Phasaelus and Herod being grievously offended hereat, charged Malichus with their Fathers death, which he stifly denied: But Herod had a great mind presently to revenge the murther, and to raise an Army for that purpose, had not Phasaelus interposed, who judged it more meet to circumvent Malichus by Policy, lest they should seem to be the beginners of a civil War, and accordingly Phasaelus made as though he accepted of Malichus his justification, and believed that he was not guilty of his Fathers Death, and so busied himself in building a stately Monument for him.

In the mean while, Herod coming to Samaria, and finding it in a desperate estate, by reason of their civil Dissentions, he appeased the discords amongst the Inhabitants, and restored it to peace: and not long after, the Feast of Pentecost approaching,Herod goes to Jerusalem. he went to Jerusalem, accompanied with some Souldiers, of whom Malichus being afraid, perswaded Hyrcanus not to suffer him to enter; which Hyrcanus accordingly did, alledging that amongst the holy People that came to the Feast, it was not lawful to bring in a mix'd multitude of prophane men. But Herod making small account of the prohibition, entred the City by night, and thereby mightily terrified Malichus; who, thereupon, according to his wonted dissimulations, openly bewailed with tears the death of Antipater, as of his dear Friend: And it was judged meet by Herods Friends, that he should take no notice of this dissimulation, but courteously again entertain Malichus.

Herod, by Letters, certified Cassius of his Fathers death, who, very well knowing the temper of Malichus, He is excited to revenge his Fathers death. wrote back unto Herod to revenge the same, and secretly also gave order to the Tribunes that were at Tyre, to be aiding to Herod in his so just undertaking.

Cassius afterwar, having taken the City of Laodicea, Governours came from every place, bringing Crowns and Presents to him: and here Herod, expecting that Malichus should do the like, intended to have him punished for the Murther of his Father: But Malichus had another design on foot, purposing, that whilest Cassius was busie in prosecuting the war against M. Anthony, to stir up the Nation of the Jews to revolt from the Romans, and to depose Hyrcanus, and get the Kingdom to himself; But Herod, being politick, and understanding of the treachery, invited him and Hyrcanus, with some other of their companions, to supper: At which time he sent one of his Servants, under pretence of providing for the Banquet, whereas indeed he sent him to the Tribunes, to desire them to set upon Malichus with their weapons, who, being mindful of the commands of Cassius, Malichus slain. finding Malichus, they ran him through, and slew him; at which, Hyrcanus being astonished, fell into a swoun, and being scarcely come to himself, he asked who had slain Malichus, and when one of the Tribunes answered, that it was done by the command of Cassius, he said, Truly Cassius hath preserved me and my Country, in killing him who was a Traitor to both; but whether herein he spake as he thought, or that through fear only he seemed to approve the fact, is uncertain.

After Cassius was gone out of Syria, A sedition at Jerusalem. there arose a Sedition at Jerusalem. For Faelix, who was left there by Cassius with Souldiers, in revenge of the death of Malichus, set upon Phasaelus, and the people betook themselves to their Arms. At which time, Herod was with Fabius, the Governour of Damascus, and had a mind to help his Brother, but was hindred by a sudden sickness: Yet did Phasaelus get the better of Faelix, forcing him into the Town, and afterwards agreeing upon quarter, suffered him to go out: But he was very angry with Hyrcanus, that after the receipt of so many favours from him, he yet favoured Faelix, and suffered the Brother of Malichus to seize upon some Castles, and [Page] amongst the rest, of the Castle of Massada, which was a most strong piece.

As soon as Herod was recovered, he went against the Brother of Malichus, and took from him all the Castles that he had seized upon,Herod's valour. and Massada also, where he took him Prisoner, yet afterwards set him at liberty upon composition. He also recovered three Castles that were seized upon by Masion, the Tyrant of the Tyrians in Galilee, but gave Quarter to all the Souldiers, and sent them home well rewarded;His Policy. by which means he procured the love of the Citizens, but the greater hatred of the Tyrant.

Shortly after, Antigonus, the Son of Aristobulus, Brother to Hyrcanus, invaded Judea, being assisted by Ptolomei, the son of Menaeus, and Fabius the Governour of Damascus, and Masion, the Tyrant of the Tyrians, who adhered to him for the hatred that he bore to Herod, whom Herod meeting, when they had scarce entred the borders of Judea, He overcomes Antigonus. overcame them in Battel, and drave them thence; whereupon Hyrcanus honoured him with Crowns, as soon as he returned to Jerusalem: For he was already accounted as one of the Family of Hyrcanus, being to marry Mariamne, or Mary, the daughter of Alexander, the Son of Aristobulus, the Brother of Hyrcanus, and of Alexandra, the daughter of Hyrcanus.

M. Anthony having overcome Brutus and Cassius, there met him Ambassies from all Nations in Bythinia, and amongst the rest, some of the Rulers of the Jews, to accuse Phasaelus and Herod, alledging that Hyrcanus ruled only in shew, but in truth, all the power was in the two Brothers: Yet Anthony highly honoured Herod, who was come thither to wipe of all those objections, whereby it came to pass, that his Adversaries were not so much as admitted to speak with Anthony: and this Herod had obtained by his Bribes.

Yet not long after,Herod accused to Anthony. there came an hundred of the most honourable amongst the Jews, to Daphne, near Antioch, in Syria, to Anthony, to accuse Phasaelus and Herod, having chosen out of their whole number the most Eloquent, to manage their business: But Messala undertook the defence of the two Brothers, with whom also Hyrcanus joyned, who had betrothed his Grand-daughter to Herod. Both Parties being heard, Anthony asked Hyrcanus, whether of the two parties were fittest to Govern a Commonwealth? who, speaking for the young men,But acquitted. Anthony that loved them for their Fathers sake, his old Friend, he made them both Tetrarchs, leaving to them the Government of all Judea, writing his Letters to the same purpose, and clapped fifteen of their Adversaries into Prison, and would have put them to death, had not Herod intreated for them. But when the People did nothing but rail upon Herod, Anthony in displeasure slew them all.

Antigonus the Son of Aristobulus hired the Parthians to translate the Kingdom from Hyrcanus to himself and to kill Herod, War between Antigonus and Herod. who coming along with him, and some Jews also joyning themselves to him, he came to Jerusalem, and they set upon the Kings House: But Phasaelus and Herod defended it against them; and in the Market place, overcoming them in a fight, forced them to fly into the Temple, where they shut them in, and placed sixty men in some adjoyning houses, to prevent their flight: but the people hating the two brethren, set fire on those Houses, and burnt the men in them, which so inraged Herod, that he slew many of the people: and each laying wait for the other, every day some were murdered.

The day of Pentecost being come, many thousands of men, as well armed as unarmed,Herod prevails. gathered together about the Temple, from all parts of the Country, and seized upon the Temple, and City, all but the Kings House, which Herod kept with a few Souldiers, as Phasaelus did the walls. These brothers assisting each other, assaulted their enemies, in the Suburbs forced many thousands [Page] of them to flie, some into the City, and some into the Temple, and others into a rampire that was near the City.

Hereupon Antigonus desired that Pacorus, the General of the Parthians might be admitted to make peace between them:The Parthians falshhood. which Phasaelus assented to, and Pacorus perswaded him to go with him as an Ambassador to Barzapharnes (another General of the Parthians) laying an ambush for him by the way: Phasaelus assented, though much against the mind of his Brother Herod, and was willing to go with Pacorus, and took Hyrcanus along with him. Pacorus leaving two hundred Horsemen with Herod, and ten whom they called Eleutheri, went along with the Ambassadors. And as soon as they were come into Galile, Barzapharnes entertained them with a cheerful countenance, and bestowed gifts upon them, but watched an opportunity to intrap them: and so Phasaelus was brought with his Company to a place near the Sea-side called Ecdippon; where Ophellus, a rich Syrian, understanding of the treachery intended against them, offered Phasaelus some Ships to carry him away: But he unwilling to leave Hyrcanus, and his Brother Herod in danger, expostulated with Barzapharnes about the injury offered to them who were Ambassadors, who swore that these things were not true, and presently went to Pacorus.

No sooner was he gon, but Hyrcanus and Phasaelus were clapped up in Prison, much detesting the perfidiousness of the Parthians: and an Eunuch also was sent to Herod with a command to surprize him if he could get him out of Jerusalem. Herod flies from Jerusalem. Herod having intelligence what had happened to his Brother, taking with him such forces as he had in readiness, and his Mother Cybele, his Sister Salome, his Wife Mariamne, and his Wives Mother Alexandra, the Daughter of Hyrcanus, and his yougest Brother Pheroras, with their Servants, he privately by Night took his flight into Idumaea.

In their journey, his Mother, by the overthrow of her Coach, was in great danger of death, and Herod, fearing least the enemies should overtake them whilest they stayed there,He would have killed himself. drew forth his Sword, thinking to kill himself: But being restrained by those which stood by, he went towards Massada, a very strong place, which is seated in Arabia, and Palestine, by the nearest way that he could possible: The Parthians first, and also the Jews pursuing him by that he was sixty furlongs from the City, but he repelled them both in fight.

The next day after Herod had fled from Jerusalem, Jerusalem plundered. the Parthians plundered the City, and the Kings House; only the Treasure of Hyrcanus which was three hundred Talents, remained untouched. A great part also of Herods substance which he had not carried away with him, they siezed upon; and not satisfied therewith, they harrized all the Country also, and razed the rich City of Marissa.

Antigonus being thus setled in Judaea by the Parthians, Anigonu [...] made King of the Jews. he received into his custody Hyrcanus, and Phasaelus, who were Prisoners: yet he was much grieved that the Women were got away, whom he had intended to deliver to the Parthians, together with the money which he had promised to give them. Being afraid also lest Hyrcanus should again by the favour of the People be restored to his Kingdom and Priest-hood,Cuts off Hyrcanus ears. he cut off his ears, thereby rendring him unfit for the Priest-hood, the Law forbidding that any one who wanted a member should approach to the Altar. Lev. 21. 17, &c.

Phasaelus knowing that his death was determined sought to lay violent hands upon himself,Phasaelus kills himself. but being hindred by reason of his chains, he dashed out his brains against a stone: Yet before he was quite dead, hearing by a Woman that his Brother Herod was escaped, he greatly rejoyced that there was one left to revenge his death. The Parthians, though they missed of the [Page] Women, which they most of all desired, yet having setled all things at Jerusalem with Antigonus, when they departed, took Hyrcanus along with them Prisoner into Parthia.

Herod not hearing of his Brother Phasaelius his death,Herod flies to Melchus King of Arabia. went to Malchus, the King of the Arabians [Nabathaeans] who were obliged to him by many favours he had done them, purposing so soon as possibly he could to redeem his Brother for three hundred Talents from the enemy: For which cause he carried along with him young Phasaelus, his Brothers Son, about seven years old, to leave him for a pledg with the Arabians: But there met him some that were sent from Malchus, Is rejected by him. to command him to depart from the bounds of his Kingdom, for so the Parthians had required: Yet he pretended that he did it by the request of his Noble men, purposing to cozen him of that great treasure which his father Antipater had committed to his trust. Herod taking this very heavily, turned aside into a certain Temple, where he had left many of his followers: but the next day, when he came to Rhinocorura he heard of his Brothers death.

Malchus, upon second thoughts, repenting of his ingratitude, sent in all hast after to Herod: but the Messengers could not overtake him: for he was gon far on his journey towards Pelusium, Herod goes in to Egypt. where the Marriners that were sailing to Alexandria, refused to take him in. There, by the Magistrates of the City he was honourably intertained, and brought to Cleopatra, the Queen, who could not prevail with him to stay at that time, because he was hastening to Rome, From thence into Italy. though the Sea was very tempestuous, and as then the affairs in Italy were in no very good condition. As he sailed from Alexandria towards Pamphilia; he met with a very great storm, which made him cast overboard much of his substance, and scarcely got he to Rhodes.

At Rhodes two of his greatest Friends met him,He comes to Rhodes. Sappinas, and Ptolomaeus, and finding that the City had suffered much in the War against Cassius, he could not be restrained, no not by his present poverty, but that he would do something for it, even beyond his ability: After which he caused a Frigot to be built, and embarking himself with his Friends in it, he arrived at Brundusium in Italy, So into Italy. and fom thence went to Rome, declaring unto M. Anthony those things that had happened to himself and his Family, and that thorough many tempests, and dangers he had retired unto him, as his only refuge, in whom all his hope lay.

This Narration moved compassion in Anthony; Anthony favours him. remembring also his Fathers friendship towards him, but that which prevailed most, was the promise of a great sum of mony if he would help him to the Kingdom: Anthony also hated Antigonus as a man of a turbulent Spirit, and an enemy to the Romans. Caesar also partly for that Antipater [Herods Father] had been fellow Souldier with his Father in Aegypt, And Caesar. and for other curtesies which he had shewed him, and partly to gratifie Anthony, whom he saw to be well affected to Herod, was willing to promote his designs: whereupon the Senate being assembled, Messala, and Atpatinus, brought in Herod, and after they had praised him, reckoning up the love, and services that both he, and his Father had done for the Romans, and accusing Antigonus both for former crimes, and for that newly he had received the Kingdom of the Jews from the Parthians in contempt of the Romans: and when Anthony also had declared to the Senate how much conducing it was to the Parthian War, then in hand, that Herod should be made King:The Senate make him King. Antigonus was declared an enemy, and the Kingly Title was devolved upon Herod by their general suffrage.

Whilest these things were transacting at Rome, Ventidius, the Roman General easily recovered Palestine, Antigonus, the King thereof, being much afraid of him, and he exacted great sums of money from all men, but especially from Antigonus, Herods Family besieged. who in Herods absence had besieged his Family in Massada, [Page] which place, though it abounded with all other kinds of provision, yet it wanted water, so that Joseph, Herods Brother, who commanded in chief there, with two hundred of his Friends intented to flie to the Arabians; for that he heard that Malchus now repented him of his former ingratitude towards Herod: A special providence. But the very Night a great shore of Rain falling filled their Cisterns, which made him change his purpose, and the next morning, making a gallant salley forth, they killed many of Antigonus his men.

Ventidius encamped near to Jerusalem, and drew from Antigonus a sufficient sum of money, and to the intent that his fraudulent dealing should not be discovered, he left one Silo there, with part of his Forces under a pretence of helping Joseph, who also was to be seed by Antigonus, lest he should raise him some new troubles; which Antigonus submitted to, hoping that the Parthians would shortly come to his aid.

After the Senate was dismissed, Anthony, and Caesar went out, leading Herod between them, who also accompanied with the Consuls, and other Magistrates, and so they went all together up into the Capitol, to sacrifice to the Gods, and to place there the Decree of the Senate: and the New King, the first day of his Reign,He returns homeward. was Feasted by Anthony, and within seven days after he was by Anthony dismissed out of Italy, honoured with this unexpected felicity.

Shortly after Anthony being to go to the Parthian War, had all his Acts, as well past as to come, confirmed by the Senate, whereupon he sent to some Kings by his own authority to pay certain Tributes to him,Herods Kingdom enlarged. and he made Herod King both of the Idumaeans, and Samaritans.

Herod being returned out of Italy to Ptolemais, quickly gathered store of Souldiers, both of such as he hired, as also of his own Countrymen, passing through Galile against Antigonus: being aided by Silo, and Ventidius, who were commanded by Anthony to conduct him into his Kingdom; and as he went on, his Forces daily increased, and all Galile, except a few, sided with him.

As Herod was marching towards Massada, where he was necessarily to relieve his Kindred, Joppa would not let him pass, wherefore he was to reduce it, lest he should leave so strong a place behind him in his passage to Jerusalem: which occasion Silo taking hold on (for he was not yet come to Herod) dislodged his Army from about Jerusalem, whom the Jews pursued, but Herod meeting him with a small party saved Silo, Herod relieves Silo. who fought very cowardly.

After he had taken Joppa, He takes Joppa. he hasted to Massada to raise the Siege, and his Army encreased daily, many of the Country people joyning with him: and having relieved his Friends in Massada, Besieges Jerusalem. he hasted towards Jerusalem; and though Antigonus had laid ambushments for him in divers places, yet he drew near to the City, Silo following, and the Jews being terrified with his power. When he had encamped on the West side of the City, they upon the Walls shot at him with Darts and Arrows: others also sallying out in Troops, beat up some of his quarters. Then did Herod by an Herald proclaim round about the Walls, that he came for the publick good, and to preserve the City from ruin, and withal, he promised pardon for all former actings. On the other side Antigonus, directing his Speech to Silo, and the Romans, told them, that it was unjustly done of the Senate to give the Kingdom to Herod, a private man, and an Idumaean, and so but an half-Jew, whereas by custom it was to be given to one of the High-Priests line. His men also shooting valiantly from the Towers, drave the enemy from the Walls: and Silo (who was beforehand bribed by Antigonus) suborned some of his Souldiers to demand of Herod more provisions, and larger pay, and to be withdrawn into commodious Winter-quarters. The Army being thus troubled, and beginning to dislodg, Herod intreated the Captains, and Souldiers of Silo's Army, that they would not now forsake him, he being sent both by Anthony, Caesar, and the Senate, to take [Page] possession of the Kingdom; and withal he sent into all the Country, and brought in such store of provisions, that there was no occasion for Silo, and his Army to complain. He commanded his Friends also that inhabited about Samaria, that they should bring to Jericho Corn, Wine, Oyl, Cattle, and other necessaries, that the Souldiers for the future might have plenty.

Antigonus having intelligence hereof, sent forth some to intercept the Victualers: but Herod taking with him some Cohorts, viz. five of the Romans and as many of the Jews, with some forreign Souldiers, and a few Horse mixed with them,Herod takes Jericho. flew out to Jericho, and found the City forsaken of the Inhabitants, and five hundred Families of them were fled to the tops of the Hills, whom he took, and dismissed in safety: But the Romans entring the City, plundered it, where they found all sorts of precious movables. Herod leaving a Garrison there, returned to his Camp before Jerusalem, and then dismissed the Romans, sending them into Winter-quarters in Idumaea, Samaria, and Galile, which Countries were lately surrendred to them: But Antigonus by bribes obtained of Silo, that part of the Roman Army should he quartered in Lydda, currying thereby favour with Anthony: and thus the Romans lived in plenty, and without bearing Arms.

But Herod could not be idle:His activity. For sending his Brother Joseph into Idumaea, with a thousand Foot, and four hundred Horse, himself went into Samaria, and there setled his Mother, and the rest of his kindred, whom he had drawn out of Massada: Then did he march into Galile, where he surprized some places which were yet held by Antigonus his Garrisons: and when he came to Sephorus in snowy weather, Antigonus his men fled away, and there he found great store of necessaries. From thence he sent a Troop of Horse, and three Companies of Foot against some Thieves that dwelt in Caves,He pursues the Thieves. not far from the Village Arbela, by which means he kept them from doing mischief. Then he marched with his whole Army, whom the enemy met, and encountred resolutely, inso much as Herods left wing began to waver, till himself coming on with the main body, encouraged his own men to stand their ground, and caused the enemy to flee, whom he followed as far as Jordan: by which Victory he brought all Galile into his subjection,Subdues Galile. except those that dwelt in the Caves: and so giving to every one of his Souldiers a hundred and fifty Drachmes, and more to his Captains, he dismissed them into their Winter-quarters.

There came Silo to him with his Captains who had wintered with Antigonus, and who now would maintain, them no longer, commanding the Inhabitants thereabout to spoil the Country of all Victuals, and to retire to the mountains that the Romans might perish through famine: But Herod committed the charge of provisions to his Brother Pheroras, and withal, commanded him to rebuild Alexandrium, Alexandrium rebuilt. who in a short time furnished the Souldiers with abundance of all necessaries, and built again Alexandrium that had formerly been dismantled.

Ventidius in Syria sent for Silo to assist him against the Parthians, but commanded him first to assist Herod, and to bring Herod, and the rest of the Auxiliaries of those Provinces along with him: But Herod sending Silo to him, went himself with his Souldiers against the Thieves that lived in Caves; and in the mean time made Ptolomy Governour of the Country, which fell out ill for him; for being set upon by those who had formerly disturbed the Country, he was slain by them,Ptolomy slain. after which they retired into Fens, and inaccessible places, infesting with their inrodes, and robberies all the Country: But when Herod returned, he made them pay dear for their Thieveries: for some of them he killed, others flying to their fortified places he pursued,Herod beats the Thieves. and having taken them, put them to death, and razed their strong holds, and sined the Cities in an hundred Talents.

About this time Anthony commanded Ventidius to send Machaeras to aid Herod with two Legions, and a thousand Horse; but when he came, being [Page] corrupted by Antigonus with money, he would needs go to him, against Herods mind, under a colour of observing his actions: but Antigonus suspecting him, denied him admittance, and drave him away with slings, whereby he found that Herod had given him good counsel, and blamed himself for not following of it: whereupon he retired to Emmaus, Machaeras his cruelty. and in his march killed all the Jews that came to hand, without distinction of Friend or Foe, being provoked by Antigonus his dealing: At which cruelty Herod was much grieved, intending to go to Anthony, and saying, that he needed other manner of men than those who did him more hurt than his enemies, whereas of himself he was able to subdue Antigonus: but Machaeras overtaking him, intreated him to stay, or if he was resolved to go on, yet at least that he would leave with him his Brother Joseph, that with their united Forces they might make war upon Antigonus. Thus, after much intreaty, he was reconciled to Machaeras, and so leaving his brother Joseph with his Army, he commanded him in his absence, that he should not put all to the hazard of a Battel;Herod goes to Anthony. but himself hasted to Anthony, whom he found besieging Samosata, a City near to the River Euphrates, and carried along with him some Auxiliaries both of Horse and Foot. Anthony entertained him very honourably, and much praised him for his valour.

Joseph, unmindful of his Brothers command, taking with him his own Forces, and five Roman Cohorts that were given him by Machaeras, went towards Jericho, purposing to reap the enemies Corn, now that it was ripe, and encamped in the mountains, because the Roman Cohorts were raw Souldiers, most of them being lately taken up in Syria: yet there he was circumvented by the enemy, in the midst of those fastnesses, and having lost six Cohorts, he himself valiantly fighting,Joseph is slain. was slain: Antigonus being in a rage, caused the dead body of Joseph to be whipped, though Pheroras, his Brother, offered fifty Talents to have redeemed it: After this loss, the Galileans revolting from their Governours, drowned those that were of Herods party in the Lake: In Idumaea also there were many innovations.

Anthony having made peace with his enemy, commanded Caius Sosius to assist Herod against Antigonus, with two Cohorts: When Herod came to Daphne, the Suburbs of Antioch, he heard of his Brother Josephs deah, which caused him to hasten his journey, and coming to Mount Libanus, he took thence with him eight hundred men, and one Cohort of the Romans, and so came to Ptolemais, Herod overcomes his enemies. from whence in the night he passed with his Army through Galilee: Here his enemies met him, whom he overcame in fight, and forced them into the Castle, from whence they had issued the day before: Them he assaulted, but was compelled to desist, by reason of the extremity of the weather, and to retreat into some neighbouring Villages: but upon the coming of another Cohort from Anthony, they in the Castle were so affrighted, that they forsook the same by night: Herod then hastned to Jericho, purposing to revenge his Brothers death: and being come thither, he feasted his Nobles, and the feast being ended,A special providence. and his guests dismissed, he retired into his chamber, and presently the room wherein they had supped, being now empty of company fell down without hurting any, which made many to think, that surely Herod was beloved of God, who had so miraculously preserved him.

The next day, six thousand of the enemies came down from the Mountains to fight with him, and their forlorn-hope with darts and stones so terrified the Romans, and some of Herods Souldiers, that they fled, and Herod himself received a wound in his side.

Antigonus, desiring to have his strength seem greater than it was, sent one of his Captains, named Pappus, with some forces into Samaria, whilst himself went against Machaeras. In the mean time Herod took in five Towns, and therein put two thousand of the Garrison Souldiers to the sword; and setting [Page] the Towns on fire, he went against Pappus, and was strengthened by many that came to him out of Jericho and Judea: yet was the enemy so confident, that he would joyn battel with him;Herod beats his enemies. but in fight, Herod overcame them; and being inflamed with a desire to revenge his Brothers death, he pursued them that fled, slew many of them, and followed them into a Village, and there slew many more of them, who retreated into houses, the rest fled: After which Victory, Herod had presently gone to Jerusalem, and put an end to the war, had not the sharpness of the Winter hindred him; for now Antigonus bethought himself to leave the City, and fly elsewhere for safety.

Herod in the evening,A special providence. when he had dismissed his Friends to refresh themselves, as yet hot in his Armour, went into a chamber, attended with one only servant, to wash himself, wherein some of his enemies armed, whom fear had forced thither, were hidden; and whilst he was naked, and washing himself, first one, and then a second, and a third, ran out armed with naked swords in their hands, so astonished, that they were glad to save themselves, without profering the least hurt to the King. The next day, Herod, amongst others, cut off Pappus his head, and sent it by way of revenge for his Brothers death,Pappus slain. to his Brother Pheroras; for it was Pappus that with his own hand had slain Joseph.

Herod, Herod besieges Jerusalem. in the beginning of the third year after he had been declared King at Rome, coming with an Army to Jerusalem, encamped near the City, and from thence removing to that place where the Walls were fittest to be assaulted, he pitched his Tents before the Temple, intending to attempt them, as Pompey had done in times past: and having encompassed the place with three Bulworks, by the help of many workmen he raised his batteries; fetching materials from all places thereabouts, and appointing fit men to oversee the work;Marries Mariamne. and then himself went to Samaria to solemnize his Marriage with Mariamne, the Daughter of Alexander, the Son of Aristobulus, who was formerly betrothed to him.

The Marriage ceremony being over, Sosius came with an Army of Horse and Foot, being sent by Anthony to the aid of Herod, and Herod also took a great party with him from Samaria to Jerusalem; Herods great Army. so that the whole Army being come together, consisted of eleven Legions of Foot, and six thousand Horse, besides the Syrian Auxiliaries, which were very many, and so they pitched on the North-side of the City. Over this great Army were two Generals, Sosius and Herod, who purposed to displace Antigonus, as an enemy to the people of Rome, and to establish Herod in the Kingdom, according to the Decree of the Senate.

The Jews being gathered together▪ out of the whole Countrey,The Jews fight valiantly. and shut up within the Walls, made a valiant resistance, boasting much of the Temple of the Lord, and saying, that the Lord would not forsake his people in the time of danger. By secret sallies also they burnt up, and spoiled all provision without the City both for Man and Horse, whereby the Besiegers began to be pinched: but Herod provided against their excursions, by placing ambushments in convenient places, and sending parties to fetch in provision from afar off, so that in a short time the Army was well furnished with all necessaries.

By reason of the multitude of Workmen, the three bulworks were soon finished, it being Summer time, so that no untemperateness of weather hindred them: and with his Engines Herod often battered the Walls, and left nothing unassayed: but the besieged fought valiantly, and were every way as active and subtile to make void his endeavours; often sallying forth, and firing their Works, both those that were finished, and others that were but begun, and coming to handistrokes with the Romans, they were nothing inferiour to them, but only in Martial skill.

[Page] The Sabbatical year now coming,A Famine in Jerusalem. brought a Famine upon the besieged Jews, notwithstanding which, they built a new Wall within that which was beaten down by the battering Rams, and so countermined the Enemies mines, that many times they came to Handystrokes under ground, and making use of despair instead of courage, they held it out unto the last, though Pollio, the Pharisee, and Samias his Disciple, advised them to receive Herod into the City, saying, that they could not avoid his being their King by reason of their sins.

They held out the siege for five moneths space, though there was so great an Army before the City: but at length twenty of Herods choicest Souldiers got upon the Wall, and after them the Centurions of Sosius. So that the first Wall was taken on the forti'th day, and the second on the fiftieth, and some Galleries about the Temple were burnt down, which Herod charged (though falsly) upon Antigonus, thereby to bring him into hatred with the people. When the outward part of the Temple was taken, and the lower City, the Jews fled into the inward part of the Temple, and the upper City: and fearing lest they should be hindred from offering their daily Sacrifices unto God, they sent Ambassadours unto Herod, to desire leave, that such Beasts only might be brought in which were to be sacrificed: This request Herod easily granted, hoping that by this means they would leave their obstinacy, and submit to him. But perceiving that this courtesie prevailed not, and that they were still resolute to continue the Sovereignty in Antigonus, he gave a general assault and won the City,Jerusalem taken by Herod. on the Kalends of January, on the second moneth, Cislu, being the day on which the Jews were wont to celebrate a Fast in commemoration of the holy Rowl that was burnt by Jehoiakim.

The City being taken by assault,Cruelty. all places were filled with murthers: the Romans being incensed against the Jews for holding out so long; and the Herodian Jews endeavouring to extirpate the contrary faction; so that there were continual slaughters in the Porches and Houses; yea, the reverence of the Temple, not saving the suppliants: They spared neither age nor sex, nor so much as the little children: and though the Conquerour Herod besought, and intreated them to forbear, yet none would hear, or obey him, but as if they had been mad, they proceeded in their cruelty.

Antigonus coming down from the upper City, fell at Sosius his feet, who nothing pittying his miserable condition,Antigonus imprisoned. insulting over him, calling him Madam Antigonuus, and withall cast him into prison, and set keepers about him.

And whereas a multitude of Strangers, that Herod had hired, came rushing in, not into the Temple only, but even into the Sanctuary, some he thought to restrain by intreaty, others by threats, and some by force, judging his Victory worse than if he had been overthrown, if any of those things which were not lawful to be seen, were exposed to the view of the prophane multitude. He restrained also the plundering of the City, as much as in him lay; intreating Sosius to do the like, asking, if the Romans would make him King of a Wilderness, the City being so wasted by rapines and murthers: Sosius answered, that the Souldiers desired the plunder of the City, in regard of their hard service in the siege:Herod sayes the City. To which Herod replied, that he would recompence every man out of his own Treasury; and making good his promise, he freed the City from further misery:Rewards the Romans. For he bestowed gifts liberally upon the Souldiers, and proportionably upon the Commanders, and bountifully upon Sosius: whereupon, Sosius offering a Crown of Gold unto GOD, withdrew out of the City, leading Antigonus a Prisoner along with him to Anthony.

Herod being thus setled in Jerusalem, Herods cruelty. he advanced those of his own faction, and daily put to death them of the contrary: Amongst whom, he slew all [Page] those of the Sanhedrim, who had accused him of a capital crime, before he was King, sparing only Pollio the Pharisee, and Samias, his Disciple, whom he highly honoured.

Then did he gather together all the Regal Ornaments, and much silver and gold, which he exacted from rich men, all which he gave to Anthony and his Souldiers. He put to death also forty and five of Antigonus his chief Noble men, setting watches at their doors, that none of them might be carried out under pretence of being dead: and what gold or silver soever was found, was all carried to Herod, so that there was no end of the peoples miseries, the covetousness of the needy Conquerours consuming all their estates. The fields also lay untilled, because it was the Sabbatical year, in which it was unlawful to sow the ground.

Of these miserable times,Who were spectators of it. amongst others, were spectators, Zacharias the Priest, with his Wife Elizabeth: Of the relicts of Davids stock, Hely and Joseph: Anna also the Prophetess of the Tribe of Aser, and Simeon the just, who received an answer from the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, till he had seen the Lord Christ. Luk. 2. 26.

Anthony being thus possessed of Antigonus, intended to keep him Prisoner to adorn his Triumph; but Herod feared, that if Antigonus was brought to Rome by Anthony, he might there contend with him before the Senate for the Kingdom: considering also how the Nation of the Jews hated him, and favoured Antigonus; he thereupon gave great sums of money to Anthony, to cut off his head,Anthony slew Antigonus. which accordingly he did at Antioch: Antigonus being the first King that was thus put to death by the Romans: and in him ended the Principality of the Hasmonaeans: It being from the Captainship of Judas Maccabaeus to the death of Antigonus, an hundred twenty six years, and two or three moneths; and by this means, Herod, a stranger, got the Kingdom, and was totally freed from his fears.

Hyrcanus, (as we heard before) being carried Prisoner to Phraates King of the Parthians; he intreated him courteously for the Nobility of his Descent, and after a time,Hyrcanus honoured in Babylon. freeing him from Prison, he suffered him to live in Babylon, where were great store of Jews, who honoured him no less than as their King and High-Priest: and not only they of Babylon, but all the rest of the Nation of the Iews did the like; who in old time had been carried captive beyond the River Euphrates, by the Assyrians, of whom there were many millions. But Hyrcanus hearing that Herod was made King of the Iews, he began to cast his hopes that wayes, expecting favour from Herod, whose life he had saved, when he was called in question before the Sanhedrim. He consulted therefore with the Iews that came to visit him, about his return into Iudea, who by all means disswaded him from it, yet could they not prevail with him. Besides, Herod desired by all means to get the poor old man into his clutches,Herods subtilty. and thereupon wrote to him to get leave of Phraates and the Iews, that he might return, and that they would not envy him the joynt rule with his Son in Law, the time being now come, wherein he could requite the favours that Hyrcanus had shewed him, in being his nourisher and preserver. He sent also his Ambassadour to Phraates with great Presents, intreating him that he would not hinder him from being thankful to him that had deserved so well of him. Hyrcanus being forward of himself, dismissed by the Parthians, and honourably furnished by the Iews for the expences of his journey, he came at last to Herod, who entertained him with all honour, gave him the upper hand in all Assemblies, and the more honourable place at all Feasts, calling him Father, hereby to delude him, lest he should suspect any treachery.

Herod providing that none of the Nobility should be created High-Priest,Hananeel made High-Priest. sent to Babylon for a Priest of base Parentage, whom formerly he had been acquainted with, of the race of those Priests that had been carried away beyond [Page] Euphrates, whose name was Ananelius, or Hananeel, and to him he gave the High-Priesthood.

This Alexandra the Daughter of Hyrcanus, Alexandra takes it ill, the Wife of Alexander, the Son of Aristobulus, and Mother-in-Law of Herod, took in ill part; for that Aristobulus her Son, and Brother of Mariamne, was neglected, and another from a strange place should be made High-Priest: whereupon she wrote to Cleopatra Queen of Egypt, and Anthonies darling, that she would procure the High-Priesthood of Anthony for her Son. Cleopatra neglected her request; but shortly after, Dellius, a friend of Anthonies, coming into Iudea, perswaded her to send the Pictures of her Son Aristobulus, and of her Daughter Mariamne to Anthony, who then would deny her nothing: This she assented to, and sent them by Dellius, who told Anthony, that they seemed rather to be of a Divine, than of a humane race.

Anthony was much inflamed herewith,Anthony sends for Aristobulus. yet thought it undecent to send for a Lady that was married to Herod, shunning also the jealousie of Cleopatra: whereupon he wrote to Alexandra, to send her Son to him, under some honest pretence: But these things coming to the ears of Herod, he thought it not safe that Aristobulus, now in the flower of his age, being but sixteen, should be sent to Anthony, the most potent man amongst the Romans, and very much given to his Lusts. Wherefore he wrote back, that if the youth did but step out of the Kingdom, all the Country would be up in Arms; the Iews hoping for some innovations under a new King, and by this means he satisfied Anthony.

Herod being continually molested with the intreaties of his Wife Mariamne, that he would give the High-Priesthood to her Brother Aristobulus, it being his right, he called a Council of his Friends, to whom he inveighed against his Mother-in-Law Alexandra, as if she had privately wrought Treason against his Kingdom, and had endeavoured by Cleopatra's means to translate it to young Aristobulus; yet, lest he should seem to neglect both his piety to her,Aristobulus made High-Priest. and the rest of that Kindred, he told them, he would now restore the Priesthood to her Son, which hitherto Ananelius had supplied, by reason of the young mans tender years: Alexandra being herewith overjoyed, and withall grieved that she was suspected, fell a weeping, clearing her self of those accusations, and gave him many thanks for her Sons honour, promising that hereafter she would be most obedient unto him. And thus Herod, in the life-time of Ananelius, gave the High-Priesthood to Aristobulus, being then but seventeen years old.

Yet Herod, Alexandra confined. fearing lest his Mother-in-Law Alexandra should seek occasion to raise new troubles, confined her to the Palace, and commanded her to do nothing by her own authority: yea, he set so strict a guard over her, that nothing was concealed from him of all she did, to the very expences of her Table. This she took very heavily,She complains to Cleopatra. and wrote to Cleopatra, complaining of her hard condition, and desired her to yield her assistance: Cleopatra advised her with her Son to fly to her into Egypt, which she liked, and therefore provided two Coffins, the one for her self, the other for her Son, commanding her servants, that were privy to the plot, to carry them out by night, and to convey them to a ship that was ready prepared to carry them into Egypt. This business Aesopus, one of her servants, blabbed to Sabbation, a friend of Alexanders, supposing that he had known all before? which, as soon as Sabbation knew, though hitherto he was an enenmy of Herods, as being suspected to have been in the plot of poysoning his Father Antipater, he took this occasion of being reconciled to the King,She is surprized by Herod. by discovering the matter, Herod being thus informed of the plot, dissembled the matter till it was in execution, and then surprized her in her flight, and brought her back: Yet did he pardon her fault, not indeed daring to punish her, lest thereby he [Page] should discontent Cleopatra, that was willing to take any occasion against him: wherefore, under a colour of a magnanimous spirit, he made shew as if he pardoned her out of meer clemency.

The Feast of Tabernacles being now come, the new High-Priest Aristobulus, being just past seventeen years old, was to offer Sacrifice according to the Law, and being clad in his Pontifical attire, he came to the Altar, and performed the Ceremony with all Decency, whose excellent beauty and stature, being higher than was usual for his age, and carrying in his countenance the honour of his Lineage,Aristobulus highly honoured. drew the eyes, and love of all the multitude upon him; every one calling to mind the worthy and memorable actions of his Grand-father Aristobulus; and therefore, as overcome with affections towards him, they were so over-joyed, that they could not contain themselves, but openly prayed for him, and wished him all joy, and that more freely than was meet in those jealous times, under such a King, proclaiming openly, both the memory, and thanks they owed to the Family, for all the benefits they had received from it.

As soon as the Feast was ended, Aristobulus was entertained at a Banquet by his Mother Alexandra: Herod also pretended favour to him, and enticed him into a convenient place to sport with him after the manner of young men, and when they were hot and weary, and left their sport, they walked out to the Fish-ponds, which were near the Court, to take the fresh air, where also they beheld some of the servants that were swimming: At last, by the perswasion of Herod, Aristobulus undrest himself, and went in amongst them: Then they, who were suborned by Herod, as it were in sport and jest, ducked him as he was swimming, holding him under water, and never left off till they had drowned him.He is drowned. This was the end of Aristobulus, in the eighteenth year of his age, and in the first year of his High-Priesthood, which immediately returned to Ananelus.

The report of these things coming to the Women, they were all on an uprore, and did nothing but weep, and howl over the body of the young man: Yea, sorrow overspread the whole City, every one bewailing the calamity, as if it had been his own: But Herod endeavoured by all means to make the people believe, as if it had faln out by chance, without his privity, not only feigning sorrow,Herods subtilty. but tears and grief also: and that he might the more comfort the Women, he buried the body in a most magnificent manner, being liberal in prodigality, in adorning his Monument, and in perfumes, and other precious things.

But his Mother Alexandra knowing the Treason, though she was oft ready to lay violent hands upon her self, yet repressed her passion, seeming not to be suspicious, till an opportunity of revenge might offer it self.

And shortly after,Alexandra complains to Cleopatra. she wrote to Cleopatra of the treachery of Herod, and of the lamentable death of her Son. Cleopatra pitying her misfortune, took a particular care of this business, as if it had been her own, and never rested from perswading Anthony to revenge the young mans death; telling him that it was an unpardonable crime, that he, who by his help, enjoyed a Kingdom that was anothers right, should rage so insolently against the Family of the lawful Kings. Anthony being prevailed with hereby, when he came to Laodicea in Syria, sent for Herod to come before him, to answer what should be objected against him about the death of Aristobulus.

Herod, Herod questioned by Anthony. during the time of his absence, committed the care of his Kingdom to his Unkle Ioseph, privately commanding him, that if Anthony should do him any mischief, he should presently put his Wife Mariamne to death; pretending that he so loved her, that he should esteem it a great wrong, if any but himself should enjoy her beauty, yea, though it was after his Death.

[Page] When Herod came to Anthony, he so appeased him with rich Presents, that he brought on purpose with him from Ierusalem, But cleared by his Bribes. and by his frequent conferences with him, that afterwards Cleopatra's instigations prevailed little: For Anthony said, that it was not fit that a King should be accountable for his actions, otherwise he would cease to be a King: For having once given him the honour, the free exercise of his Kingly power was to be admitted unto him. He told Cleopatra also, that it was not fit for her too much to meddle with other mens matters.

During Herods absence, Ioseph Governing the Kingdom, he had occasion many times to converse with Mariamne, partly upon business, and partly to do her honour; and in their discourses there was often mention made how much Herod loved her, which discourse was laughed at by the Ladies, especially by Alexandra; But he was carried on with such a desire of provoking the Kings love to them, that he told them what private command the King had given him, supposing this was an infallible argument of his love, because he could neither endure to live without her, nor in death to be disjoyned from her: but the Ladies were not of his mind, rather abhorring the Tyranny of Herod, who, though he were dead, yet would he seek their lives.

Presently after, a rumour was spread about the City, that Anthony had put Herod to death, which much troubled all the Court, especially the Ladies: whereupon Alexandra perswaded Ioseph, that, taking them along with him, he should fly to the Roman Legions that lay before the City, under the command of the Tribune Iulius, so that if any trouble arose in the City, they might be secured by the Romans; adding, that she hoped if Mariamne came but once to the sight of Anthony, she might obtain any thing of him, yea, even the Kingdom, with whatsoever belonged to the Royal Family.

Whilst these things were under debate, there came Letters from Herod, which dashed all, signifying how Anthony had honoured him, both in the publick Assemblies, and inviting him to his Feasts, and that, during the accusations of Cleopatra: so that he feared her not for the time to come, but hoped shortly to return to them, Anthony having given Coelosyria unto Cleopatra instead of Iudea, upon condition that she should not hereafter demand Iudea, nor trouble him any further about that business.

As soon as these Letters were received, the speech about flying to the Romans vanished,Herods return. but yet their debate about it was not hid: For as soon as Herod had brought Anthony part of his way against the Parthians, he returned into Iudea, and immediately his Sister Salome, and his Mother Cyprus told him what Alexandra's counsel was; neither was she herewith contented, but she accused her Husband Ioseph, as if he had been too familiar with Mariamne: and this she did out of an old grudge, because the Queen (a woman of an high spirit) in their womanly brabbles, had upbraided her with her obscure birth.

Mariamne by her Oath assured Herod of her chastity, who told her again, how much he loved her; but she replied, that it was not the part of a lover, to command that if he died, she should be put to death also. Herod judging that this secret could never be known, except she had committed adultery with Ioseph, had much ado to refrain from killing her immediately: but love overcoming his passion,Ioseph put to death. he refrained; yed did he command Ioseph to be put to death, without suffering him to plead for himself, Alexandra also he cast into prison, as the cause of all these evils.

Cleopatra having brought Anthony part of his way towards Parthia, returned towards Egypt, and by the way, was entertained by Herod, who assured unto her that part of Arabia which was granted unto her by Anthony, to which he added the revenues of Iericho, where are great store of the best Date Trees, and where Balsom grows,Gardens of Balsom. which being a precious Oyntment only grows there, in two Gardens, both which are the Kings, the one of twenty acres, the other of less.

[Page] By this means Herod grew into great familiarity with Cleopatra, who sought to allure him to her Lust, either through her great intemperance, or because she sought by this means to betray him; but though she pretended love to him, yet Herod refused, and held a consultation with his Friends about killing her, who disswaded him from it, and therefore having appeased her by great Presents, and all manner of obsequiousness, he accompanied her as far as Pelusium: yet fearing both her, and the People of the Jews, he reserved the Castle as a refuge for himself, laying in as many Arms there, as were sufficient for ten thousand men.

Herod payed duely to Cleopatra the Tributes of Judea and Arabia, which Anthony had given to her, not thinking it safe to give her any occasion of disgust against him.

Herod being now free from troubles, and having taken Hyrcanium, a Town which hitherto a Sister of Antigonus had kept, the Actian War brake forth, between Augustus Caesar and Mark Anthony, Herod prepares to assist Anthony. whereupon Herod made great preparation for the assisting of Anthony, but he freed him from the trouble, telling him that he needed them not, and so dismissing him, Herod returned home with a well-furnished Army, wherewith he invaded Arabia, going as far as Diospolis, at which place the Arabians met him, and after a fierce conflict, the Jews got the Victory.

After this, Herod made many inrodes into Arabia, in the seventh year of his Reign, after the death of Antigonus, at which time the Actian War being begun,A great Earthquake. Judea was shaken with such an Earthquake as never was the like before, in which ten thousand men were overwhelmed, by the ruins of the houses, yet the Souldiers received no dammage, because they lay in the open fields. This being much aggravated by report, so emboldened the Arabians, that they laid hold on the Ambassadours of the Iews, who, in this their affliction came to demand peace, and slew them, and presently prepared for War with all earnestness.

Herod hearing hereof, encouraged his men, offered Sacrifice according to the custome, and so in all haste marched with his Army over Iordan, and having incamped at Philadelphia, there the fight began, about the taking of a Castle that lay between him and the Arabians, Herod overcomes the Arabians. in which the Iews got the better, and after continual skirmishes, forced the Arabians to flight, who in their haste, treading upon one another, they lost in all five thousand men: the rest were besieged in their Camp, and extreamly wanting water, they sent Ambassadours to Herod, who would not admit of them, and was more eager upon them, for offering but fifty Talents for their freedom: They being parched with continual thirst, came out of their Camp by great companies, offering themselves to the Iews, by which means they took five thousand of them in five dayes; and at last, the rest in the Camp came out to fight; but despairing of any good success, there fell of them in the first conflict about seven thousand more. By this overthrow the courage of the Arabians was tamed, and Herod was declared Governour of that Nation, and so returned home with great Glory.

The Actian War being finished, wherein Caesar finally overthrew Anthony, Alexandra hoped that Herod should be severely punished by Caesar, Alexandra's restlesness. for assisting Anthony against him; whereupon she sollicited her Father Hyrcanus, not any longer to suffer the affliction of their Family, but rather to reserve himself for better times: For which end she advised him to seek for protection and entertainment of Malchus the King of Arabia. These sollicitations her Father at first repulsed, but at last being overcome by her Womanish importunity, he sent Letters to Malchus, by one Dositheus a Friend of his, desiring him to send some Horsemen to convey him to the Lake Asphaltitis, which is distant from Ierusalem about three hundred furlongs. This Dositheus was Kinsman [Page] to Joseph, whom Herod had put to death, yet, to curry favour with the King, he shewed him the Letters: Herod thanked him, and withal desired one curtesie more, that he would seal up the Letters, and give them to Malchus, and bring his answer to him. This he did, and the Arabian sent back word, that he was ready to entertain Hyrcanus and his Family, and all the Jews that were of his Party, and that he would send a band of Souldiers to conduct them in safety, who should be obedient to Hyrcanus in all things. Herod having received this answer, called Hyrcanus and asked him if he had any confederacy with Malchus? who denying it, he produced the Letters in the Councel of the Sanhedrim, and commaded him to be put to death.

Herod having thus dispatched Hyrcanus, Herod goes to Caesar. resolved to post unto Caesar, and expecting no good from him, because of his great Friendship to Anthony, he was very jealous of Alexandra, lest, taking this opportunity, she should stir up the people to rebel, and so fill the Kingdom with domestical seditions. Wherefore committing the care of his Kingdom to his Brother Pheroras, he left his Mother Cyprus, and his Sister Salome, and all his kindred in the strong Castle of Massada: And commanded his Brother, that if any thing befel him otherwise than well, he should retain the Government of the Kingdom in his own hands: and because his Wife Mariamne, by reason of some differences, could not live with his Mother, he placed her with her Mother Alexandra in Alexandrion, committing the custody of them to his Treasurer Joseph, and to Sohemus, an Iturian, under a colour of doing them honour, but yet he gave them this command,His cruel command. that if they should certainly know that any sinister hap befel him, they should presently put both the Ladies to death, and to the uttermost of their power, keep the Kingdom for his Children, and his Brother Pheroras.

Herod having thus setled his affairs at home, posted to Rhodes to meet with Caesar there, whither when he was come, laying only his Crown aside, but retaining other his Princely Ornaments, he was admitted into Caesars presence, where, with great constancy, and magnanimity of Spirit, he freely confessed the love he bore to Anthony, as also the supplies he had sent him of Corn, and Money: adding moreover that he was ready with the same Faith to keep Friendship with Caesar. Caesar honours him. This Caesar exhorted him to, and restoring his Crown to him, exceedingly honoured him. Thus beyond all expectation, is Herod again confirmed in his Kingdom, both by the free gift of Caesar, and also by a Decree of the Senate, which Caesar procured for him: and Herod gave great Presents both to Caesar himself, and to all his Friends about him, even above his ability, to shew the greatness of his mind.

During his absence,His Wife and Mother are full of discontents. his Wife Mariamne, and his Mother Alexandra, took it very ill that they were shut up in that Castle as in a Prison, so that they could neither enjoy their own, nor make use of other mens goods: especially when by their feminine flatteries they had fished out of Sohemus, what Herod had commanded concerning them: She then began to wish that he might never return home, supposing that she should live a most intollerable life with him: all which she afterwards dissembled not, but openly confessed what it was that did afflict her. For Herod returning beyond all expectation, and relating to Mariamne what successes he had, she seemed not to regard them, and at all the carasses that he made her, she would sigh, so that Herod plainly perceived the hatred of his Wife against him, insomuch that himself was wavering between love, and hatred towards her.

Not long after Caesar passing through Syria towards Egypt, Herods bounty to Caesar, and his Army. Herod intertained him with all Royal magnificence at Ptolemais, and shewed all hospitality [Page] towards his Army, giving them plenty of all sorts of Victuals, by which means he was counted one of Caesars chiefest Friends, and used to ride about with him when he mustred his Army. He presented him also and his Friends with a hundred and fifty Men, all clad in most sumptuous, and rich apparel, yea, he suffered them to want nothing in their march to Pelusium, through barren places, and such as wanted water, yet did he provide plentifully for them, with which the Souldiers were much delighted. He also presented Caesar with eight hundred Talents: yea, he gave such satisfaction to all, that they confessed that it was greater than the Kingdom could afford.

Herod wavering between love and hatred towards his Wife Mariamne, Herod is jealous of his Wife. was continually incensed against her by the false accusations of his Sister Salome, and his Mother Cypros, who laboured to kindle his hatred and jealousie against her: whereupon, probably he had proceeded rigorously with her, but that news came seasonably that Anthony and Cleopatra were both dead,He meets Caesar. and that Caesar had won Egypt, and was coming back, whom in all hast he went to meet, and so left his Family as it was. At his departure he commended Sohemus to Mariamne, professing that he owed him much respect for the care he had had of her: and gave to him also the Government of a part of Iudea.

Herod meeting with Caesar before he was come out of Egypt, Caesar enlarges his Government. in confidence of his Friendship, spake freely to him, and was highly honoured by him: For he bestowed upon him the four hundred Galatians, who were formerly of Cleopatra's Guard, to be his Guard, and restored to him that part of his Country which Cleopatra had seized upon, and added to his Kingdom Gadara, and Hippon, and Samaria; and by the Sea-side, Gaza, and Anthedon, and Ioppa, and the Tower of Straton, which added much splendour to his Kingdom.

In Caesars return through Syria, Herod conducted him as far as Antioch. At his return,Herods suspicions of his Wife are enencreased. for the space of a whole year, suspicions increased daily between him and his Wife Mariamne, she neglecting his carasses, and oft upbraiding him either with the death of her Grand-father Hyrcanus, or her Father Aristobulus, so that Herod could scarce refrain from striking her, and Salome by the noise, perceiving that Herod was much moved, she sent in the Butler, whom long before she had suborned for that end, who told Herod that he was solicited by Mariamne to deliver him a love potion, which he had by him, but what it was he knew not. Herod hereupon examined the most faithful servant of Mariamne by torture, being assured that she would attempt nothing without his privity, who not enduring the torments, confessed that she was offended for something that Sohemus had declared unto her, which when the King heard, he cryed out, that Sohemus had declared unto her, which when the King heard, he cryed out, that Sohemus, who had ever been most faithful both to him, and the Kingdom, would never have spoken of these things, had there not been some more secret familiarity between them than was fitting; and thereupon he commanded Sohemus to be apprehended and put to death; and having called his Friends to Counsel, he accused his Wife for practising to poyson him, which he so aggravated, that all that were present perceived that he had a mind that she should be condemned,Mariamne condemned to death. which was accordingly done by the general consent of them all: and whereas they thought that the execution should not be over speedy, but rather that she should be secured in some of the Kings Castles, Salome exceedingly urged the King that she should presently be put to death, for fear lest there should be some commotion among the People she being alive and in Prison: and thus was Mariamne brought to her death.

[Page] When her Mother Alexandra saw her going to execution, and considered that she must look for the same at Herods hands, that she might not seem to be guilty of the same crime, she began to upbraid her Daughter as being wicked and ingrateful towards her Husband,Her Mothers Hypocrisie. saying, that she deserved death who durst attempt so hainous an act. Whilst she counterfeited these things, and made as if she would have pulled her Daughter by the hair, they that were present condemned her hypocrisie; but she that was led to death returned her no answer, but refelled the false accusation, with a resolute countenance,Mariamnes Death. and mind, and underwent her death without fear.

She being dead,Herods excessive grief for her. Herod began to be more inflamed with love towards her, often calling upon her Name, and lamenting her death beyond decency; and although he sought to divert his grief by pleasures, feastings, and drinking, yet all availed nothing. Whereupon he cast off the care of his Kingdom, and so far gave up himself to sorrow, that he would bid his Servants call Mariamne, as though she were yet living.

As Herod was thus tormenting himself,A great Plague follows. there came a great Plague, which swept away a great part both of the Nobility, and Commons, every one judging that this Plague was sent by God for the unjust death of the Queen. The Kings discontents being increased hereby, he at last hid himself in a solitary Wilderness under a pretence of hunting;Herods Melancholy and sickness. where still afflicting himself, he fell into a great sickness, which was accompanied with an inflammation and great pain in his Neck, so that he began to rave; neither could any applications ease him, but rather made the disease more painful, so that those about him began to despair of his life: and his Physicians, partly because of the stubborness of the disease, and partly because in so great danger there was not any free election of diet, they gave him leave to eat whatsoever he would.

Herod lying thus sick in Samaria, Alexandra's Treason and Death. and Alexandra being at Jerusalem, she endeavoured to get the two Castles of the City into her hands, the one adjoyning to the Temple, the other situate in the City: For which end she sollicited the Governours of them to deliver them up unto her, and to the Children of her and Mariamne, lest that Herod being dead, they should be seized upon by others: But they who had ever been faithful to Herod, were now much more diligent in their Office, both out of an hatred of Alexandra, and because they thought it a great offence to despair of the recovery of their Prince. Hereupon they presently sent Messengers to Herod, to acquaint him with Alexandra's attempt, who thereupon commanded her to be slain. At length overcoming his disease, he recovered his strength both of body and mind,Herod grows cruel. but grew so cruel, that upon the least occasion he was ready to put any one to Death.

Salome, Salome leaves her Husband and comes to Herod. Herods Sister, having been married to Cossaborus an Idumean, a difference now arising betwixt them, she, contrary to the custom of the Iews, sent him a Bill of Divorce, and came away to her Brother Herod, telling him that she preferred his love before her tye to her Husband: the reason which she pretended was, that Cossaborus had practised some innovations with Lysimachus, Antipater, and Dositheus, confirming it from this, because he had privily kept in his Country the Children of Bebas, now for the space of twelve years from Herods taking of Ierusalem: Herods cruelty. As soon as Herod heard this, he sent some to their hiding places, and killed them, with many others, to the intent that none should remain of the kindred of Hyrcanus: He also took out of the way all such as excelled in any dignity, that he might do whatsoever seemed him good, there being none to resist him.

Herod by these practises growing more secure, he began to degenerate more and more from his Country fashions, violating them by forreign inventions. [Page] For first he instituted Wrestlings every fifth year in the honour of Caesar, He instituted Games to the discontent of the Jews. for the exhibiting of which, he began to build a Theatre in Ierusalem, and an Amphitheatre in the plain, both of them very sumptuous for the Workmanship, but clean contrary to the Iewish customs: Yea he would have this solemnity to be inrolled, and to be proclaimed in the neighbouring Countries, and to remoter Nations, and by propounding greater rewards, he invited, not only those those were skilful Wrestlers, but also excellent Musicians, and such as Played on several Instruments. Yet that which above all troubled the Iews, were the Trophees, which being covered with Armour, they thought to be Images, forbidden by their Law; but Herod to satisfie them, commanded the Armour to be taken off, and shewed them that they were meer stocks of Wood, whereupon all their anger was turned into laughter.

Herod having many ways provoked the Jews, A conspiracy against Herod. ten Citizens of Jerusalem made a Conspiracy against him, amongst whom one was blind, who made one, not because he could do any thing, but to shew how ready he was to suffer with those that defended their Country rights: Herod had appointed secret spies to discover such plots, one of which had fished this matter out, and acquainted Herod with it, who caused them to be apprehended, and when they were brought before him, with undaunted countenances they drew out their Weapons from under their Garments, protesting, that, not out of any private respect, but in the behalf of the publick weal, they had undertaken this conspiracy.The Conspirators are put to Death. Then were they led away, and put to death with all manner of tortures. Not long after, their accuser being hated of all men, was slain by some, and being cut in pieces, was thrown to the Dogs. Yet were the authors hereof concealed, till after long, and wearisome inquisitions, it was by torture wrung out from some silly Women who were privy to it.Herods cruelty. When Herod had thus found out the Authors, he punished them with death, and their whole Families.

Herod the better to secure himself from the seditions of the tumultuous people,He fortified Samaria, and built a Temple there. in the thirteenth year of his Reign, began to fortifie Samaria, which was a days journey from Jerusalem, and called it Sebaste (or Angusta,) The circuit of it was twenty furlongs, in the midst whereof he built a Temple of a furlong and an half, which he wonderfully adorned, and so ordered, that many of the Souldiers, and of the neighbouring Nations came and dwelt there.

Herod also built another Cidadel to be as a bridle to the whole Nation, namely the Tower of Straton: He built several Castles. Also in the great plain he built a Castle, and chose of his Horsemen by lot, to keep it. Another he built in Galile, and one in Peraea: which Castles being so conveniently disposed in several parts of the Country, took away from the people all opportunity of rebellion.

About this time very grievous calamities befel the Nation of the Jews. Plague, and Famine. First there was a long Drought, after which followed a Famine: After the Famine, by reason of their ill diet, there came divers Sicknesses, and the Plague; and Herod, having not wherewithal to supply the publick wants, was forced to melt the Gold and Silver that was in his Pallace,Herods care to provide for the People. not sparing any thing for the curiosity of the Workmanship: no not so much as the Vessels which were for his own daily use. These being turned into money, he sent to buy provisions into Aegypt, where Petronius was Governour under Caesar, who though he was pestered with multitudes that repaired to him upon the like necessity, yet being Herods Friend, he gave his Servants leave to export Corn, and was assisting to them, both in the buying, and carriage of it.

When the Corn was brought to Herod, he was very careful to see it [Page] divided, first to such as had most need, and then because there were many who by reason of old age, or some other weakness, were unable to dress it themselves, he appointed them certain Bakers to provide their food for them: By this means he procured the good will of the people, and the praise of a prudent and provident Prince.

He provided also for his Subjects against the sharpness of the Winter, taking care that none should want clothing, their Cattel being dead, and Wool, and other materials failing. And when he had made provision for his own People,His bounty to strangers. he took care also for the neighbouring Cities of the Syrians, to whom he allowed Seed for sowing of their ground: and the Castles, and Cities; and those of the common People, who had great Families, coming to him for succour, he found a remedy for them also: Insomuch that he gave to those that were not his Subjects ten thousand Cores of Corn, each Core containing ten Athenian bushels.

As soon as the Corn was ripe for harvest, Herod dismissed fifty thousand Men, whom he had fed in the time of Famine, into their own Countries: by which diligence he restored the almost ruined estate of his own Subjects, and did not a little relieve his Neighbours, who groaned under the same calamities.

At the same time also he sent aid to Caesar. He sends aid to Caesar, to wit, five hundred chosen Men of his own Guard, whom Aelius Gallus led into the Arabian Wars, where they did most excellent service.

Herod also built himself a Pallace in Sidon, He built himself a Pallace. in which he built two very large and stately Houses, with which the Temple it self could in no wise compare, and called one of them by the name of Caesar, and the other by the name of Agrippa.

Herod having removed from the Priesthood Jesus the Son of Phales, He makes a new High Priest: and marries Mariamne. made Simon (a Priest of Jerusalem; the Son of Boethus of Alexandria) Priest in his room, and took also his Daughter Mariamne to Wife, that was the most beautiful Virgin of that age.

The marriage solemnities being over,He built another Pallace. he began to build another new Pallace, unto which he adjoyned a Town, which he called Herodian, in a place distant from Jerusalem, about sixty furlongs towards Arabia, in the place where he had overcome the Jews when he was thrust out by the Arms of Antigonus.

He built also Sebaste, And Sebaste, and a stately Haven. and having finished that, he began to build another most magnificent City in a place by the Sea-side, where Straton stood, which he called Caesaria, and added to it an Haven of admirable work, equal in bigness to the Haven Piraetus: all which he finished in twelve years space, sparing neither labour nor cost about them.

Then did he send his two Sons,He sent his Sons to Caesar. Alexander, and Aristobulus, (whom he had by Mariamne the Asmonaean) to Rome to Caesar, to be there educated under him, for whom Lodgings were prepared at the House of Pollio, Herods great Friend. Caesar intertained the young men very courteously, and gave Herod power to make which of his Sons he pleased the heir of his Kingdom:Caesar enlarged his Kingdom. he added also to his Government Trachonitis, Batunaea, and Auranitis.

When Herod had received Trachonitis, he took guides, and went to the Den of the Thieves,He represented the Thieves. restraining their Villanies, whereby the people lived in quiet: But Zenodorus, the former Governour, being moved, partly thorough envy, and partly with the loss of his Government, went to Rome, to accuse Herod, but could effect nothing.

About this time Herod went to Mytelene, He went to Agrippa. to salute his chiefest Friend Agrippa, and so returned into Judaea: and presently after some Citizens of Gadara went to Agrippa to accuse Herod, whom he vouchsafed not so much as to hear, but sent them bound to Herod: Yet did he spare them: for though [Page] he was inexorable towards his own People, yet did he willingly contemn, and forgive injuries received from strangers.

Zenodorus had solemnly sworn to the Gadarens, that he would do his utmost with Caesar to get them freed from the jurisdiction of Herod, and to be annexed to the Province of Caesar: Many of themselves also exclaimed against Herod, [...]. calling him cruel Tyrant, complaining to Caesar of his violence and rapines, and for rasing, and robbing their Temple: Yet was Herod nothing herewith terrified, being ready to answer for himself: But Caesar used him curteously, and was nothing alienated from him for all these tumultuous complaints: The Gadarens therefore perceiving the inclination of Caesar and his Friends towards Herod, despairing of good success, and fearing to be delivered into Herods hands, some of them cut their own Throats, others fearing torments brake their own Necks, or drowned themselves in the River, and thus, seeming to forejudg themselves, Caesar absolved Herod from all their accusations.

Zenodorus also having his bowels burst, through much blood that came from him, ended his life at Antioch in Syria; whereupon Augustus Caesar gave his Tetrarchy to Herod: he made him also one of the Governours of Syria, Caesar still enlarged his Dominions. commanding the rest of the Governours of that Province, to do nothing without his advice.

Herod bestowed upon his Brother Pheroras a hundred Talents out of the revenues of his Kingdom, and begged a Tetrarchy for him of Caesar, to the intent that if himself should happen to die, Pheroras estate might be secure, and not subject to Herods Children.

Caesar coming into the East, having setled his affairs there, Herod conducted him to the Sea-side, and so returned into his own Kingdom, where he built a goodly Temple in honour of Caesar, Herod buil [...] a Temple and eased his Subjects. all of white Marble, near to Panion, at the foot of which mountain were the spring-heads of Jordan: He also remitted to his Subjects some part of their Tribute, under pretence that he would ease them after the great dearth, but indeed to appease the minds of his Subjects, who were offended at his vast works, which seemed to tend to the destruction of Religion and good manners, as was commonly talked. As also to prevent these reports, he forbad all private meetings in the City,His jealousies. and to frequent Feastings: He had spies also who would mingle themselves in all Companies, and mark what People said: yea himself would go about in the Night in the habit of a private Person, and mingle himself in the company of People to hear what they thought of him: and such as peremptorily disliked his doings, he would punish without all mercy: the rest of the multitude he bound to him by Oath, requiring that they should not depart from their fidelity, and duty: Yea he required this Oath of many of the Pharisees, as of Pollio, and Sameas, &c. which though he could not get them to take, yet did he not punish them as he did others, in regard of that respect that he bore to Pollio: Neither did he impose it upon the Esseans, whom he much esteemed for one Manaherus sake, who was a Prophet, and when Herod was but a Boy, he saluted him King of the Jews, and foretold that he should Reign above thirty years.

Herod in the eighteenth year of his Reign, propounded to the Jews his building the Temple at Jerusalem, He rebuilt the Temple at Jerusalem. whom when he saw troubled least, when he had pulled down the old, he should not be able to finish a new one, he told them, that the old Temple should remain whole as it was, till all the materials necessary for the new Fabrick, should be fully prepared: neither did he deceive them for he provided a thousand Wagons to carry stones, and he chose out of all the Artificers ten [Page] thousand that were the most exquisite Work-men, and a thousand Priests, clothed in their Priestly Garments at his cost, who were not altogether ignorant of the Masons, and Carpenters Art, to oversee them.

All necessary materials for this stately work being provided in the space of two years, Herod began to build the Temple at Jerusalem, forty six years before the first Passover of the Ministry of Christ and therefore that Text, Joh. 11. 20. should be thus translated, This Temple hath been built forty six years hitherto: So the learned Primate of Ireland, and our Country-man Lydiat, read it.

Indeed the building of the Temple under Zorobabel began in the first year of the Monarchy of Cyrus, and after some interruptions, was finished in twenty years space, viz. in the sixth year of Darius Hystaspes: but the magnificent building of it,Nine years it was in building. begun by Herod at this time was finished in nine years space and an half: and truly the riches of Herod alone, were not sufficient to perfect so magnificent a structure, but all the holy treasures of many ages, that were sent to them from all the parts of the World to Jerusalem, were spent about it.

Not long after Herod set sail for Italy, He goes into Italy. to salute Caesar, and to see his Children at Rome, and as he passed through Greece, he was, not only present at, but Judg of the Olympick exercises, where, observing that they did not answer the resort that was to them, through the poverty of the Elienses, he bestowed towards them a yearly revenew, that so their Sacrifices might be made the more splendid, as also other things that tended to the gracing of so great a meeting:His bounty. For which bounty he was declared perpetual Judg of those exercises.

When he came to Rome, Caesar intertained him courteously, and delivered to him his Sons sufficiently instructed in the Liberal Sciences, and so from thence he went into Galatia.

At Jerusalem, by the diligence of the Priests, the building of the Temple properly so called, that contained the Holy, and the Holy of Holies, was finished in a year and a half; during which time, it is reported that it never rained in the day time, but only in the Nights: and in the eight years following, the Porches, the Ranges, and the rest of the buildings about the Temple were all finished.

When Alexander, and Aristobulus were returned into Judea, and had gained all mens love, Salome the Sister of Herod, and her Faction, fearing that at some time or other they would revenge their Mothers death, cast out a rumour amongst the people, that they hated their Father, because he had caused their Mother to be slain: But Herod as yet suspecting no ill, used them with all Honour, as they deserved: and because they were now grown to mens estate,Herods Sons married. he provided them Wives: for Alexander, Bernice, the Daughter of Salome, and for Aristobulus, Glaphira, the Daughter of Archelaus, the King of the Cappadocians.

Then Herod hearing that Agrippa was again come into Asia, he went to him, and begged of him that he would come into his Kingdom as to his Friend,Herod entertains Agrippa. and Guest; and as he came, he entertained him in all the Cities that he had newly built, shewing him the publick buildings, and presenting, both to himself and friends all kind of delights which might set forth his magnificence, at Sebaste, and the Port of Caesarea, and in the Castles of Alexandrion, Herodion, and Hyrcania. He brought him also into the City of Jerusalem, where all the People met him in their best, and Festival attire, and with acclamations of joy: Agrippa also sacrificed an Hecatombe to God, and feasted the People; and though he would willingly have stayed longer there, yet, fearing storms, the Winter no [...] drawing [Page] on, he hasted to sail into Jonia, both he and his Friends having been honoured with great presents by Herod.

As soon as the Spring came, Herod hearing that Agrippa was going with an Army to Bosphorus, made hast to meet him, and taking his way by Rhodes, and Chios, he came to Lesbos, thinking there to find him: But Agrippa being driven back by contrary North-winds Herod stayed at Chios, to whom many came privately to salute him, upon whom he bestowed many princely gifts,Herods great bounty. and when he perceived that the Gate of the City that was thrown down in the War against Methridates, as yet lay buryed in its ruins, and that by reason of the poverty of the Inhabitants, it could not by them be restored to its former beauty and greatness, he bestowed upon them so much mony as would abundantly suffice to finish it, and exhorted them to hasten the restoring of their City to its former beauty, and grandure.

As soon, as the wind served, he left Chios, and sailed to Mytilene, and from thence to Byzantium, and there understanding that Agrippa had already passed the Cyanian Rock, he followed him with all speed, and overtook him at Sinopi, a City in Pontus, where, beyond Agrippa's expectation, he arrived with his Navy: His coming was yery grateful to him, and they embraced each other with singular affection,His love to Agrippa. Agrippa looking upon it as an evident argument of his fidelity and friendship, that leaving his manifold occasions, he would come to him in so seasonable a time. Wherefore Herod still abode with him in the Army, was Companion with him in his labours, and partaker of his counsels: He was also present with him when he went to be merry, and was the only man that he used in difficult matters, for the love that he bore unto him.

Agrippa having forced the Bosphorans to lay down their Arms, in his whole journey thorough many Countries and Cities, he gratified Herod in many things,Agrippa's love to him. and at his intreaty, relieved the necessities of many: If any one needed an Intercessor to Agrippa, Herod was the only man, by whom he could obtain his suit, and assisted many in whatsoever they had need of.

When they were come into Jonia, a great multitude of Iews that inhabited that Country, complained of the great injuries that they suffered from the Jonians, who would not permit them to live after their own Laws, but that upon their Festival days, they haled them before their Tribunals, and forbad them to send holy money to Ierusalem, which also they perverted to secular affairs, contrary to the priviledges granted them by the Romans: Herods favour to the Jews in Jonia. Herod took care that Agrippa should hear their complaints, and allowed them Nicholas Damascene, one of his Friends, to plead their cause, which when he had largely performed before Agrippa (many honourable Romans, and some Kings and Princes being present) the Grecians denyed the thing, excusing themselves that the Iews were troublesom to them: But they on the contrary proved that they were free-born Citizens, and that they lived according to their own Laws without injuring of any; wherefore Agrippa answered that both for his Friend Herod's sake, as also because that which they demanded was just, he would gratifie them therein: He ordered therefore that the priviledges which were formerly granted them, should remain inviolable, and that none should molest them for living after their Country Laws. Then Herod rose up, and gave him thanks in the name of them all: and so after mutual embraces, they took their leave each of other, and departed from Lesbos.

Herod in a few days after, having a prosperous Gale, arrived at Caesarea, and from thence went to Ierusalem, where, calling all the People together, [Page] he gave them an account of his Journey,Herod ingratiates himself with the Jews. and told them what immunities he had procured for the Jews in Asia; and to win them the more to his friendship, he professed that he would remit to them the fourth part of his Tribute; with which bounty they being exceedingly taken, wished him all happiness, and departed with great joy.

Presently after his return,He is incensed against his Sons. he was greatly incensed by the false accusations and artifices of his Sister Salome, and his Brother Pheroras, against his two Sons that he had by Mariamne, Alexander, and Aristobulus: whereupon to take down their spirits, he began to use them more hardly, and publickly he put hopes of the Kingdom into his Son Antipater, whom he begat when he was a private man, his Mother also being a woman of mean Parentage, whom formerly he had banished the City in favour to his two other Sons, and writing often unto Caesar for him privately, he gave him great commendations: and at the intreaties of Antipater, he recalled also his Mother Doris, whom he had put away when he married Mariamne.

Agrippa after his ten years Government in Asia, He visits Agrippa. being now to depart, Herod sailed to salute him; taking with him of all his Sons only Antipater, whom he delivered to Agrippa with many gifts, to be carried to Rome, and to be brought into Caesars favour.

Antipater was much honoured at Rome, Antipaters subtility. being commended to all his Friends by his Fathers letters: and though he was absent, yet desisted he not by writing to incense his Father against the Sons of Mariamne, pretending his great care of his Fathers safety, but in truth, to make way for his succession in the Kingdom. About this time Agrippa died, and being brought into the Marketplace of Rome, Augustus commended him in a Funeral Oration.

Herod being now incensed against his Sons,Herod accuseth his Sons. Alexander and Aristobulus, he sailed with them to Rome to accuse them before Augustus, and not finding him there, he followed him as far as Aquileia, before whom he accused them of treachery against him; but the young men satisfied all that were present by their Apology for themselves mixed with prayers and tears, so that they were reconciled to their Father: After which, giving thanks unto Caesar, they departed together, and with them Antipater also, who pretended much joy that they were received into favour again.

A few days after Herod gave Caesar three hundred Talents,Caesars favours to Herod. and again Caesar gave him half the revenues of the mettal Mines in Cyprus, and the other half also he committed to his oversight, and having honoured him with other gifts of Hospitality, he gave him leave to choose which of his Sons he pleased to be his successor, or if he liked it better to divide his Kingdom amongst them, which when he vvas about to do, Caesar told him that he vvould not suffer but that he should have his Kingdom during his life in his ovvn povver, as vvell as his Sons.

In Herods absence there vvas a rumour spread in Judea that he vvas dead, vvhereupon the Trachonites revolting, fell to their old trade of Thieving; but by the diligence of his Captains that he had left in his Kingdom, they vvere subdued,Thieves subdued. and forty of the chief of them, being terrified by the punishment of those that vvere taken, left their Country and fled into Arabia Nabathaea, vvhere they vvere entertained by Silaeus (vvho vvas an enemy to Herod, because he had denyed him his Sister Salome to Wife) vvho gave them a place to dvvell in that vvas vvell fortified.

Herod and his Sons sailing homvvard,Herod returns with his Sons, arrived at Sebaste in Cilicia, vvhere they met vvith Archelaus King of Cappadocia, vvho courteously entertained Herod, much rejoycing that his Sons vvere reconciled to him, and that Alexander had fairly ansvvered the crimes that vvere objected against him: and so giving royal gifts each to other they parted.

[Page] Herod being returned into Iudea, called the people together, and told them what he had done in his Voyage, and declared to them, that his Sons should Reign after him, first, Antipater, and then Alexander and Aristobulus, that he had by Mariamne.

About this time,Agrippa born. in the year of the world 3994, Agrippa, the first King of the Iews of that name, was born, who dyed when he was fifty four years old, being struck by an Angel, Act. 12. 23. Also that lame man was now born, who being above forty years old, was healed, by Peter, at the Beautiful Gate of the Temple, Act. 4. 22.

Herod having finished Caesarea Stratonis, in the twenty eighth year of his Reign, he dedicated it with great solemnity, and many sports and pastimes: After which,Herods great bnildings. he began to build another Town in a field called Capharsala, which he called Antipatris, after his Fathers name; and a Castle also, which he called Cyprus, after his Mothers name. In honour also of his dead Brother, he built in Ierusalem a very fair Tower, not inferiour to the Egyptian Pharos, and called it Phasaelus: and afterwards he built a Town of the same name in the Valley of Iericho, from whence the Countrey thereabouts is called Phasalus.

Herod, having wasted his wealth by his great Prodigality, and now wanting mony, after the example of John Hyrcanus, in the night, without the knowledg of the people, he opened Davids Sepulchre, where, though he found no money, yet he found great store of precious things,He robs Davids Sepulchre. and ornaments of gold, which he took away: for the expiation of which fact, he afterwards built a most sumptuous Monument of white Marble at the entrance of the Sepulchre.

Antipater, Antipaters s [...]btilty. suborning other men falsly to accuse his Brethren, Alexander and Aristobulus, takes upon him their defence, that making a shew of good will to them, he might the easier oppress them: and by these subtilties he so wrought upon his Father, that he thought him to be his only preserver. Hereupon Herod commended his Steward Ptolomy unto Antipater, and communicated all his Counsels with his Mother Doris, so that all things were done as they pleased, and still the King was imbittered against those, whom it was their profit that he should be angry with.

About this time Pheroras (Herods Brother) fell so madly in love with his own servant, that he refused marriage with Cypros, the Kings Daughter, that was offered him by his Brother: He also accused Herod to his Son Alexander, as if he had been greatly in love with his Wife Glaphyra: for both which, Herod was highly displeased with him.

In the year of the world 3996, he began to be diseased, who, lying at the Pool of Bethesda, was, after thirty eight years, restored to health by Christ, Joh. 5. 5.

Alexander, Alexander reconciled to his Father. by the subtilties of his adversaries, being even driven to desperation, was at this time reconciled to his Father, by Archelaus, King of the Cappadocians, who came to Jerusalem to visit Herod, and being accounted one of Herods chief Friends, received great gifts from him, and when he departed, Herod brought him as far as Antioch.

Not long after,Herod goes again to Rome. Herod went a third time to Rome to visit Caesar, in whose absence those Thieves of Trachonis, whom Sylloeus had entertained, with their inrodes infested not only Judaea, but all Coelosyria; Syllaeus affording them both impunity and security.

Herod being returned from Rome, He returns and dedicates the Temple. celebrated the Dedication of the Temple, re-edified by him in the space of nine years and a half, on the very Birth-day of his Kingdom, which he was wont to celebrate with great joy, at which time he Sacrificed unto God three hundred Oxen, and other of the people offered an innumerable company of Sacrifices, every one according to his ability.

[Page] Herod finding that in his absence his People had sustained much dammage by those Thieves of Trachonis, Thieves do much mischief. and seeing he could not subdue them, being under the protection of the Arabian, he therefore entred Trachonis, and destroyed their Families, which yet did but incense them the more; so that contemning all dangers, they molested Herods Countries with continual excursions, driving, and carrying away the peoples Goods.

Herod, hereupon sent to the Presidents of Syria, Saturninus and Volumnius, desiring that he might have the punishing of the Thieves of Trachonis, who by their incursions had often wasted his Country. They, when they heard hereof, being increased to the number of a thousand, began to waste both Fields and Villages, cutting the throats of all that fell into their hands; wherefore Herod demanded those Thieves to be delivered over to him, and withall, required the sixty Talents that he had lent Obodas, upon Syllaeus his security, who had thrust Obodas from the Government, and now ruled all himself: But Syllaeus denied that the Thieves were in Arabia, and deferred also to pay the money; whereupon the business was debated before Saturninus and Volumnius, and in conclusion it was determined by them; that within thirty dayes space, both the money should be repaid, and the runawayes of both Countries should be delivered up, and Syllaeus swore by the Fortune of Caesar, before the Presidents of Syria, that he would perform what was enjoyned.

But when the time was expired, Syllaeus being unwilling to stand to the agreement, went to Rome: and in the mean time Herod, by the permission of Saturninus and Volumnius, to punish those obstinate people, raised an Army, entred Arabia, and marched as far in three dayes as they used to do in seven;Herod destroys th [...] Thieves. and when he came to the Castle where the Thieves kept, he took it at the first assault, and demolished a Fortress also called Raeptu: and when a Captain of the Arabians came to their aid, they joyned Battel, in which few of the Herodians were slain, but there dyed twenty five of the Arabians, together with their Captain, whereupon the rest [...]led. Being thus revenged of the Thieves, he brought three thousand Idumaeans into Trachona, to restrain the Thieveries committed there, and certified the Roman Generals, that he had only used that power which they had granted, against those obstimate Arabians, which, upon enquiry, they found to be true.

There were Letters posted away to Rome, Caesar incensed aga [...]st him. to Syllaeus, that related matters far otherwise, aggravating every thing after their manner, by which Lyes Caesar was so much incensed against Herod, that he wrote threatning Letters to him, because he had marched with an Army out of his own Kingdom without his leave: and he was so far provoked, that he would not hear his Ambassadours, but dismissed them without an answer.

The Trachonites and Arabians taking hold of this occasion, molested the Garison of the Idumaeans, that Herod had set over them; but Herod being affrighted with Caesars anger, was fain to connive at it.

About this time Obodas, King of Arabia Nabathaea, dyed, and one Aeneas succeeded him, who changed his name into Aretas; which Syllaeus hearing of at Rome, endeavoured by false accusations to have him thrust from the Kingdom, and to get it to himself, bestowing much money upon the Courtiers, and promising great things unto Caesar, whom he knew to be offended with Aretas, for assuming the Kingdom without his consent. In the mean while, Aretas sent Letters, and rich presents unto Caesar, and amongst them, a Crown worth many Talents: But Caesar would not hear his Ambassadours, and scorned his Presents, and dismissed them without any thing done.

Herod, being continually vexed with the insolencies of the Arabians, sent [Page] Nicholas Damascene to Rome, to see, if by the mediation of his Friends, he could get Justice from Caesar: Herod falls out with his Sons, and imprisons them. But in the mean time the discord with his Sons that he had by Mariamne, was greatly heightned by the artifices of Eurichus a Lacedemonian, which occasioned Herod, to find out their supposed Treachery, to put to death by various torments, many both of his own, and of his Sons Friends, yet could he find no other evil by them; but some too free complaints of improvident young men, concerning their Fathers immoderate cruelty, and his too easie hearkning to base pick-thanks, of the wicked deceits of their Brother Antipater, and of the faction that was combined against them, and that, to free themselves from these mischiefs, they were said to think of flying to Archelaus, King of Cappadocia, which thing indeed they did not deny: Hereupon Herod cast them into Prison, as if they had been convicted of Treason against their Father, resolving to punish them according as his affairs went at Rome: and concerning this business he sent Letters to Caesar by Volumnius the Roman General, and Olympius, his Friend.

At Rome, Nicholas Damascene joyned himself to the Arabians, that came to accuse Syllaeus, professing that he was his accuser also before Augustus, and not Herods defender, and this he did, lest he should be repulsed as others had been before him. When by this means he had gotten access into Caesars presence, he indeed laid open many of Syllaeus his crimes, and withall added, that Caesar was circumvented with his lyes in the cause of Herod, which he confirmed by certain authentick records: This so prevailed with Caesar, that he condemned Syllaeus, and remanded him into the Province, that when he had satisfied the debt he might be punished.

From this time Augustus was reconciled to Aretas, Caesar is reconciled to Herod. and Herod, and then received the Presents that before he had so often rejected, and confirmed the Kingdom of the Arabians to Aretas. He advised Herod also by his Letters, to call a Council of his Friends at Berytus, and joyning the Presidents of Syria with Archelaus the King of Cappadocia, by their joynt advice to determine of the business about his Sons.

About this time the Angel Gabriel (who long before had foretold to Daniel An Angel appears to Zachary. the coming of the Messias by a certain number of Weeks) appeared at the right side of the Altar of incense to Zachary the Priest, of the course of Abia, telling him, that there should be born to him now in his old age, his Wise Elizabeth also being well stricken in years, and barren, a Son Called John, a Nazarite, and the forerunner of the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elias: which he not believing, was made dumb, Luke. 1. 5. 22.

Herod having received Augustus his Letters, rejoyced exceedingly, both because he was returned into his favour, and for that he had granted him power to do what he would with his Sons, and hereupon he convened by messengers all those that Caesar had appointed, to Berythus, except only Archelaus, and kept his Sons not far from the place,Herod procures his Sons to be condemned. in a City of the Sidonians: and the Case being opened, Saturninus, one that had been Consul, delivered his opinion, but moderated with circumstances, that Herods Sons were to be condemned, but not to be put to death: After him, his three Sons that were his Lieutenants, delivered their opinions to the same purpose: But Voluminus pronounced, that they were to be punished with death, whose opinion the major part followed: and so the Council being ended, Herod took his Sons with him, and meeting with Nicholas Damascene at Tyrus, they went together to Caesarea.

Here,Herods cruelty. whenas a certain old Souldier named Tyro, had smartly reprehended Herod for his wickedness determined against his Sons, and told him that three hundred more of his Captains were of the same opinion, Herod commanded him to be cast into Prison: Trypho the Kings Barber, taking this occasion, accused Tyro for that he had often sollicited him to cut the Kings throat with [Page] his razor, as he was trimming him, and immediatly both Tyro and his Son, and the Barber were tortured: and Herod bringing those three hundred Captains, and Tyro and his Son, and the Barber, accused them before the People, against whom the people throwing any thing that came next to hand, slew them every one.

Then were Alexander and Aristobulus led to Sebaste, Herods Sons strangled. and there strangled by their Fathers command, and their bodies were buried in the Castle of Alexandrion, where Alexander, their Grandfather by the Mothers side, and many of their Progenitors had been buried.

Antipater, Antipaters Treason, when his Brethren were now dead, intended to remove his Father also out of the way: and knowing that he was hated by many in the Kingdom, he endeavoured by Bribes to get the good will of his Fathers Friends, both at Rome and in Judea; but especially of Saturninus, the President of Syria, and of Pheroras, and Salome, the Brother and Sister of Herod.

At this time Herod sent home Glaphira, the Widow of his Son Alexander, to her Father Archelaus the King of Cappadocia, and gave her a Dowry out of his Treasury, lest some controversie should arise concerning it, and withall, he took great care of the young children of Alexander and Aristobulus, which Antipater took very heavily, fearing, lest when they should come to age, they would hinder his designs: he sought therefore their destruction: and he so overcame Herod by his flatteries, that he suffered him to marry the daughter of Aristobulus, and his Son to marry the daughter of his Unkle Pheroras.

About this time Herod invited Zamaris, a Babylonian Jew, and gave him a Countrey in Trachonis to inhabit, and this he did, that he might be a guard to that Countrey against Thieves: and Zamaris coming with five hundred Horse, and an hundred of his Kinsmen, erected Castles in divers places of that Country, by which means he secured the Jews that came from Babylon to the Feasts at Jerusalem, from the Thieves,

Antipater working Treason against his Father, drew in his Unkle Pheroras and some of the Kings women, that were most addicted to the Sect of the Pharisees, except Salome, Of the Pharisees, who constantly adhered to her Brother Herod. These Pharisees were a crafty people, arrogant, and enemies to Kings, and they only of the whole Nation of the Jews, refused to swear allegiance to Herod and Caesar, and were about six thousand. For which cause Herod fined them, and the Wife of Pheroras paid their fine for them, to whom, by way of requital, they foretold that the Kingdom should be taken from Herod and his children, and be transferred upon her Husband, and Her, and their children: these things Salome made known to Herod, Herod slew some of them. who, examining the business, put some of the Pharisees to death, and with them, the Eunuch Dagoas, and his darling Carus, who was commended to him for his handsomness; and besides these, all the rest of his Family whom he found to have conspired with the Pharisees.

Herod having punished the Pharisees, called a Council of his Friends, and before them began an accusation against the Wife of his Brother Pheroras, and when Pheroras, though to gratifie his Brother, would not forsake her, he forbad Antipater Pheroras his company: and Antipater, that he might remove all suspition from himself, procured by his Friends, that his Father should send him immediately to Augustus: Herod sends his Son to Caesar. and accordingly Herod sent him with great Presents, and his Will, in which he declared, that Antipater should succeed him in the Kingdom: But if he died before him, then his Son that he had by Mariamne, the Daughter of Simon the High Priest.

In the sixth moneth after John was conceived,The Angel appears to Mary. the Angel Gabriel was sent [Page] to Nazareth in Galilee, to the blessed Virgin Mary betrothed to Joseph, of the same Tribe with her: viz. of the stock of David, and declared to her that she should bring forth the Son of God, and call his name Jesus, and she being more fully taught of his admirable conception by the power of the Holy Ghost overshadowing her, with great Faith, said, Be it to the Handmaid of the Lord according to thy word, Luk. 1. 26, 38. and presently after she went into the Hill-Countrey, into a City of Judah, (viz. Hebron, a City of the Priests, scituated in the mountains of Judea, Josh. 21. 10, 11.) where, when she entred into the House of Zachary, and saluted her Cousin Elizabeth, the Babe sprang in her womb, and she, being filled with the Holy Ghost, declared that Mary was blessed, &c. Luk. 1. 39, 56.

Herod banished his Brother Pheroras into his Tetrarchy, Herod banished his Brother. because he would not part with his Wife, who swore that he would never return till he heard of Herods death, so that a little after, Herod falling sick, and often sending for him to receive some private instructions, he refuled to come for his Oathsfake.

When Elizabeths time was come,John Baptist is born. she brought forth a Son, who was called John, and Zacharies speech being restored to him, he prophesied, saying, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, &c. Luk. 1. 57, 58. and Joseph finding his betrothed wife to be with child, thought of putting her away privily, but being warned by God in a dream, he took her to wife, Mat. 1. 24.

Pheroras falling sick, and Herod, Pheroras dieth. beyond expectation, being recovered, went to visit him, and very kindly sought help for him, but he died within a few dayes after, whose Body was brought to Jerusalem, and interred by Herod, who honoured him with publick mourning.

At this time, two of Pheroras's freed men declared to Herod, how he was killed by poyson, given him by Doris, the Mother of Antipater, which, whilst Herod enquired into, by little and little he found out greater Villanies, and the manifest Treasons of his Son Antipater; Antipaters' Treason. who, when he went to Rome, had delivered a deadly poyson to Pheroras, that was sent him out of Egypt from his Unkle Theodore, the Brother of Doris, wherewithall to make away his Father, that so the suspition of the Parricide should not lye upon him, being so far absent.

Hereupon, Herod put Doris out of the Palace, and took from her Jewels that were worth many Talents: He also put from him his Wife Mariamne, the Daughter of the High Priest, as a Partner of all these secrets, and blotted her Son out of his Will, and deprived her Father of the High Priesthood, and substituted in his room Matthias, the Son of Theophilus, that was born at Jerusalem.

Presently after came Bathillus, Antipaters freed man, from Rome, who being tortured, confessed, that formerly he had brought poyson, and given it to Doris and Pheroras, that if the first proved too weak, they should be sure to dispatch Herod with the second. There came also Letters from his Friends at Rome, Antipaters Craft. to the King, written by the entreaty of Antipater, in which Archelaus and Philip, Herods Sons, were accused, for often complaining of the death of Alexander and Aristobulus, pitying the misfortune of their murthered Brethren: For these young men were studying at Rome, and their Father had now commanded their return: whereupon Antipater by great gifts corrupted those Friends, that by their Letters they might make the young men suspected to their Father, who, if they lived, might be an hindrance to his hopes.

About this time,Christ is born. Augustus taxing all the Roman world, our Lord Christ was born, Luk. 2. 4, 5.

Shortly after, there came Wise men from the East, the Star being their guide, to Herod at Jerusalem, and there, being taught that the birth-place of Christ was Bethlehem of Judea, thither they went, and entring into the house, [Page] which was shewed them by the Star that stood over it, they found the Child, and fell down and worshipped him, &c. Mat. 2. 1. 12.

After the Angel of the Lord appeared unto Joseph in a dream, warning him to fly into Egypt, Joseph flyes into Egypt. where he remained till the death of Herod, Mat. 2. 13, 14, 15.

Herod thinking that the Child was still at Bethlehem, Herod kills the children. that he might destroy him amongst the rest, killed all the children which were in Bethlehem, and in all the Coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time (of the Star first seen in the East) that he had enquired of the Wise men, Mat. 2. 16.

Herod receiving Letters from Antipater from Rome, in which he signified, that having dispatched all his business according to his own mind, he would shortly return into his own Countrey;Herod ensnarers his Son. he wrote back to him again, dissembling his anger, that he should make haste, lest any thing should befall him in his absence, that he should not like of; and also gently complaining of his Mother, he promised that he would remit all differences at his return.

Antipater heard uo news all this while either of the death of Pheroras, or of those things that were on foot against him, though there were seven months space between the wickedness proved against him,Antipaters return. and his return. For in his journey, at Tarentum he met with a Letter of the death of Pheroras, and in Cilicia, those Letters of his Father that called him back so hastily; and when he came to Celenderis, a Town of Cilicia, he began to doubt of his return, hearing of, and being extream sorrowful for the disgrace of his Mother, yet failing forwards, he came to Sebaste, a Port of Caesarea, where, being saluted by none, he went to Jerusalem.

It happened that Quintilius Varus was the same time at Jerusalem, being sent as Successor to Saturninus into Syria, and then called thither by Herod to assist him with his Counsel in those his weighty affairs. As they were sitting both together, in comes Antipater, not knowing any thing, and in his purple Garment that he used to wear, entring the Palace; but himself being entred, the Guards suffered none of his followers to come in with him: As he was coming near, his Father thrust him from him, reproaching him with the murther of his Brethren, and his intention of poysoning his Father, telling him that the next day Varus should hear, and determine all things betwixt them; and accordingly the next day,Antipater accused by his Father. Varus and the King sitting in Judgment, his Father himself first began the accusation, and left the prosecution and confirmation thereof, to his old Friend Nicholas Damascene, one that knew all the business; and when Antipater could not clear himself from the crimes objected against him, Varus commanded the poyson that he had prepared for his Father to be brought forth, which being given to a condemned main, killed him immediately: after which, Varus rose from the Council, and the next day went to Antiochia: but Herod cast his Son into Prison, and signified so much by Letters to Caesar: sending also messengers, who by word of mouth might acquaint him with the cursed Treason of Antipater.

As these Messengers were posting to Rome, Herods sickness. Herod fell sick, and made his will, leaving his Kingdom to his youngest Son, Herod Antipas, being exasperated against his two elder Sons, Archelaus and Philip, by the false accusations of Antipater.

Judas the Son of Sariphaeus, and Matthias the Son of Margalothus, two of the most Learned of the Jews, and best Interpreters of the Law, knowing that the Kings sickness was incurable, perswaded some young men, that were their Scholars,The Golden Eagle hewn down. to throw down the Golden Eagle that was set up by Herod, over the great gate of the Temple; who accordingly, going up at noon day, pulled, and hewed down with their axes, the Eagle, a great multitude being in the Temple, and beholding it: which, as soon as it was told the Captain, he came [Page] with a strong Band of Souldiers, and laid hold upon some forty of the young men, together with their Masters, and brought them to Herod: These constantly defending what they had done, Herod commanded them to be bound, and sent them to Jericho: Then calling for the Rulers of the Jews, into whose Assembly he was brought in a Litter, by reason of his weakness, he complained to them, not so much of the injury done to himself, as to God (as he said.) These denying that it was done by their order, somewhat pacified him, only he took away the High-Priesthood from Matthias, whom he suspected not to be a stranger to that fact, and made his Successor Jazer, the Brother of his Wife Mariamne, the Daughter of Simon the High Priest; but he burned alive the other Matthias, Herod puts them to death. that was the author of this sedition, and his companions.

Herods disease began now to grow worse:His sickness encreaseth. for he was burned with a slow fire, which was not perceived so much by the outward touch, as by the inward effects of it, which burnt up his very Bowels: He had also the disease called the Bulemia, or Dog-like appetite, which provoked him to a continual desire of eating, and yet nothing would satisfie him: He was also continually tormented with ulcers in his Bowels, and pains of the Cholick: His feet swelled with a moist phlegm, and his thighs also: His members rotted, and were full of worms, which occasioned an intolerable stink: He was no less troubled with a Priapisme: and moreover was vexed with grievous convulsions, and difficulty of breathing.

And though he was so grievously tormented,All means of cure fall him. that every one judged that he could not be able to endure it long, yet he hoped that he should break through it, being very careful to send for the ablest Physicians, and sought medicines from every place: He went also beyond Jordan, to the Hot Baths at Callirhoe, which run into the Asphaltite Lake, which, beside the medicinal virtue, are pleasant, and good to be drunk: There being, by the advice of his Physicians, set into a Bathing tub of oyl, he seemed to them to be giving up the Ghost, yet by the sudden crying out, and lamentations of his Friends, he came to himself again, and now seeing no hope of recovery, he commanded fifty Drachmaes to be given to every Souldier, and having shewed much liberality to his Captains and Friends, he returned again to Iericho.

Augustus being told, that amongst the Children which Herod had caused to be slain at Bethlehem, there was a Son also of his own slain, He said, That it was better to be Herods Hog than his Son.

Herod an Edict called together to Iericho all the most Noble of the Iews, and when they came, he shut them all up together in a place called the Hippodrome, giving command to his Sister Salome, and her Husband Alexus, that as soon as He was dead,His cruelty. they should cause his Souldiers to slay them all, that so the people might have cause of sorrow, who otherwise (he feared) would rejoyce at his death.

At this time Letters came from Rome, from the Ambassadours whom He had sent to Caesar, wherein they certified him, that the Emperour left Antipater to his Fathers pleasure, either to banish, or to put him to death. Herod hearing this, was a little cheared: but presently his torments returning, and being greedy of meat,He attempts to murther himself. He called for an apple, and a knife to pare it, intending with the knife to have stabbed himself, which also he attempted: but Archelaus, his Nephew, prevented him, and holding his right Hand, called for help. This accident caused much sorrow, fear, and tumult through the whole Palace, as if Herod had been dead.

Antipater perceiving the noise, thought verily that his Father was dead, and thereupon began to tamper with his Keeper about letting him out, promising him great Rewards, both for the present, and for the future, when it would lye in his power amply to reward him: This his practice the Keeper [Page] told to the King, who, for indignation cryed, and though he was so near death yet did he raise up himself on his Bed, and commanded one of his Guard to go presently and kill Antipater, Antipater slain. and to bury him in the Castle of Hyrcanion, without any honour, which was done accordingly.

Then did He make a new Testament: for Antipas, Herods Will. whom before he had made Successor to his Kingdom, he made Tetrarch of Galilee and Petrea: To his Son Philip he assigned the Regions of Gaulanitis, Trachonitis, Batanaea and Pancada, the name of a Tetrarchy, but he gave the Kingdom to his Son Archelaus: To his sister Salome he gave Jamnia, Azotus, and Thasaelis, with five hundred thousand Drachmaes: To the rest of his Kindred he gave money and yearly Pensions. To Caesar he gave ten Millions of Drachmaes of silver, and all his Plate, as well of Gold as of Silver, and a great quantity of precious moveables: and to Livia, Caesars Wife, and some certain Friends, he gave five Millions of Drachmaes.

Having thus ordered these things,His Death. five dayes after Antipater was put to death, he dyed himself, having enjoyed the Kingdom 34 years after the death of Antigonus: but from the time that he was declared King by the Romans 37 years, about the 25th of our November, in the year of the world 4001, and after the Birth of Christ, about two years.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF HANNIBAL THE GREAT,

[Page]

HANNIBAL, the Son of Amilcar was about twenty six years old,Hannibal chosen General. when he was chosen General of the Carthaginian Forces in Spain. He was elected by the Army as soon as Asdrabal (their late General) was dead, and the election was approved, and confirmed by the Senate or Carthage, wherewith Hanno, and his faction was nothing pleased. This was now the third of the Barchine Family (so called of Amilcar, whose surname was Barcas) that commanded in chief over the men of War. Hanno therefore and his Partizans, being neither able to tax the Virtue of their enemies, nor to perform the like services to the Common-wealth, had nothing left whereby to value themselves, excepting the general reprehensions of War, and cautelous advise of not provoking the Romans: but they were little regarded. For the Carthaginians saw apparently, that the Oath of the Romans to the Articles of Peace, was like to hold no longer, than till the Romans could find some good advantage to renew the War. It was therefore rather desired by the Carthaginians, that whilst they were in a fit condition, the War should begin, rather than in some unhappy time of Famine or Pestilence, or after some great loss in their Army or Fleet, they should be driven to yield to the impudent demands of their insulting enemies.

This disposition of his Citizens Hannibal well enough understood. Neither was he ignorant that in making War with the Romans it was no small advantage to get the start of them. Could he but bring his Army into [Page] Italy, he hoped to find Friends and assistance, even from those People, that helped to encrease the Armies of the Romans. But his design must be carried privately, or else it would be prevented. He resolved therefore to lay Siege to Saguntum in Spain, where he now was with his Army, which might seem not greatly to concern the Romans, and would highly please the Carthaginians.

Having resolved hereupon, nevertheless he went orderly to work, beginning with those that lay next in his way. First therefore he entered into the Territory of the Olcades, and besieging Althaea, He besieges, and takes many Towns. in a few days he became Master, not only of it, but of all the other Towns in their Country; and the Winter coming on, he rest his Army in New Carthage, or Carthagena, imparting liberally to his Souldiers of the Spoils that he had gotten in his late Conquests.

In the Spring he made War upon the Vaccaei, and with little difficulty wan, first Salamanca, and after it Arbucala, though not without a long Siege and much difficulty: But in his return he was put to the height both of his Valour,His Valour, and Policy. and Prudence. For all such of the Vaccaei that could bear Arms, being made desperate by the spoil of their Country, with divers others that had escaped in the late overthrow, joyning with the Toletans, made up an Army of one hundred thousand able men, waiting for Hannibal on the Banks of the River Tagus. They knew that he was very adventurous, and had never turned his back upon any enemy, and therefore hoped, that having him at such an advantage, they should easily have foiled him. But at this time our Great Man of War, knew as well how to dissemble his Courage, as at other times to make good use of it. For he withdrew himself from the River side, as seeming fearful to pass over it, aiming thereby to draw over that great multitude from their Banks of advantage. The Spaniards, as Hannibal expected and desired, thinking that he retreated out of fear, thrust themselves in a disordered manner into the River, to pursue him. But when Hannibal saw them well near over, he turned back his Elephants to entertain them at their landing, and thrust his Horsemen, both above and beneath them into the River, who by the advantage of their Weapons slew almost all of those in the River without resistance,His Victory. and then pursued the rest, who being amazed, fled, and so he made a very great slaughter of them.

The Saguntines perceiving the strom drawing near to them, hastened their Ambassadours to Rome, who complained that they were like to be undone, only for their Friendship to the Romans. This so moved the Senate, that some would have War presently proclaimed, both by Sea, and Land, and the Consuls sent with Armies, one into Spain, the other into Africk: But others went more soberly to work (according to the Roman gravity) whereby it was concluded, that Ambassadours should be sent into Spain, to view the State of their Confederates.

These Ambassadours found Hannibal at Carthagena, where they had Conference with him, who carried himself so reservedly, that they departed, as doubtful as they came. But whilst they were passing to and fro, Hannibal prepared, not only his Forces, but some Roman pretences against Saguntum. For the Tudetani, who were Neighbours to the Saguntines, complained to him of sundry wrongs that they had received from them of Saguntum: Probably Hannibal himself had hatched some of them. Having therefore such an occasion, he sat down with his whole Army before Saguntum. He besieges Saguntum. The Romans were glad of the Quarrel, as hoping that Carthage, with all belonging thereto, would in short space become their own. Yet were they not hasty to threaten before they were ready to strike; but meant to temporize until they had an Army in readiness to be [Page] sent into Spain, where they intended to make Saguntum, the seat of War.

In the beginning of Hannibals Siege, his Carthaginians were much discouraged by reason of the brave Sallies which the Saguntines made upon them, in one of which Hannibal himself received a dangerus wound in the Thigh that made him unable to stir for many days. Yet in the mean time he was not unmindful of his business, but gave order to build certain movable Towers that might equal those upon the City Walls, and to prepare to batter the Curtains, and to make a breach. These being sinished and applied, had soon wrought their desired effect. A large breach was made by the fall of some Towers, whereat a hot assault was given: But it was so gallantly defended by the besieged, that the Carthaginians were not only beaten from the breach, and out of some ground within the City, which in the first fury they had wan, but they were pursued even to their own Trenches and Camp. Yet at length the Carthaginian Army (wherein were one hundred and fifty thousand men) did so tire out the Townsmen by their continual Allarms, that at length it gat into the Town, and had been Masters of it, but that they were hindred by some Counter-works which the besieged had raised.

In this extremity there was one Alcon, that came out of the City to treat with Hannibal, who would give no other terms but these hard ones, That they should deliver up to him all the Gold, Silver, and Plate, and other Riches which they had in the City; That the Citizens should leave the City, and take up such other habitations as he should appoint them; neither should they carry any more out with them, save the cloaths on their back. These terms seemed so unreasonable to Alcon, that he durst not return into the City to propound them to the Citizens. Yet might they far better have submitted thereto, how hard soever, because thereby they might have saved their lives,Saguntum taken. and the honour of their Wives and Daughters, whereas, the City being shortly after taken by storm, they saw their Wives and Daughters defloured before their Faces, and all put to the Sword that were above fourteen years of age. The Treasures found in Saguntum, which were very great, Hannibal reserved, therewith to pay his Army. The Slaves, and other booty, he divided amongst his Souldiers, reserving some choise things, wherewith to present his Friends at Carthage, to encourage them to the War.

This news exceedingly vexed the Romans, Roman Ambassadors sent to Carthage. being angry at their own slowness to send help to Saguntum, which held out eight Months, looking still for succour but in vain. Then did the Romans send Ambassadors to Carthage, to demand whether this act were done by their done by their consents, or whether it were Hannibals presumption alone? If they granted the former, they were to give them defiance. Answer was made them in the Senate of Carthage by one of the Senators, to this effect. That by this Message the Commonwealth of Carthage, was urged to plead Guilty, or nor Guilty: That it belonged to them to call their own Commanders in question,The Carthaginians answer. and to punish them according to their Faults; but to the Romans to challenge them if they had done any thing contrary to their late League and Covenant. Its true (said this Speaker) that in our negotiations with Luctatius your Ambassador, the Allies of both Nations were comprehended, but the Sanguntines were not then your Allies, and therefore no parties to the Peace then made: For of your Allies for the future, or of ours, there was no question: As for the last agreement between you and Asdrubal, wherein you will say that the Saguntines were comprehended, its you that have taught us how to answer that particular. For whatsoever you found in the Treaty between us and Luctatius, to your disadvantage, you said it was his presumption, as promising those things for which he [Page]had not Commission from your Senate: If then it be lawful for you to disavow the Actions of your Ambassadors and Commanders, concluding any thing without precise Warrant from you; the same liberty may we also assume, and hold our selves no way bound in honour to perform the contract that Asdrubal made for us, without our Command, and Consent.

In conclusion, the Carthaginian Senate moved the Romane Ambassadors to tell them plainly the purposes of those that sent them? whereupon Q. Fabius, gathering up the skirt of his Gown, as if something had been in the hallow thereof, made this short reply, I have here in my Gown-skirt both Peace and War; Make you (my Masters of the Senate) election which you will have. All answered, even which of them you have a fancy to offer us.War denounced by the Romans. Then (quoth Fabius) take War, and share it amongst you. Which all the Assembly willingly accepted.

War being thus proclaimed, Hannibal resolved not to put up his Sword which he had drawn against the Saguntines, till he had therewith opened his passage to the Gates of Rome. So began the second Punick War; indeed second to none that ever the People of Rome met with. Hannibal wintered at Carthagena, giving license to his Spanish Souldiers to visit their Friends, and refresh themselves against the Spring. In the mean while he gave Instructions to his Brother Asdrubal for the Government of Spain in his absence.Hannibal prepares for Italy. He also took order to send many Troops of Spaniards into Africk, to supply the rooms of those Africans which he had drawn into Spain, as also that the one Nation might remain as Pledges for the other. He selected also four thousand Foot, all young Men, and Persons of Quallity, out of the best Cities of Spain, which were to be Garrisoned in Carthage it self, not so much to strengthen it, as that they might serve for Hostages. He also left with his Brother, to guard the Coasts, and Ports, fifty seven Gallies, whereof thirty seven were ready Armed. Of Africans and other Nations, Strangers, he left with him above twelve thousand Foot, and two thousand Horse, besides one and twenty Elephants.

Having thus taken order for the defence of Spain and Africk, he sent some to discover the Passages of the Pyrenaean Mountains that part Spain from France; and of the Alps, that part France from Italy. He sent Ambassadors to the Inhabitants of the Pyrenes, and to the Gauls to obtain a quiet passage, that he might bring his Army intire into Italy. These being returned with good satisfaction: In the beginning of the Spring he passed over the River of Iberus with an Army of ninety thousand Foot, and twelve thousand Horse.

All those parts of Spain which had not before been entered,He Conquers much of Spain. he now subdued; and appointed one Hanno to Govern Spain on the east side of Iberus, with whom he left ten thousand Foot, and one thousand Horse. When he came to the borders of Spain, some of his Spanish Souldiers returned home without asking leave; which, that others also might not attempt, he courteously dismissed such as were willing to be gone: Hereby the Journey seemed the less tedious to such as accompanied him voluntarily. With the rest of his Army, consisting now but of fifty thousand Foot, and nine thousand Horse, he passed the Pyrenes, and entered into Gaul (now France:)His passage through France. But he found the Gauls bounding upon Spain ready in Arms, to forbid his entrance into their Country: but with gentle Speech, and rich Presents, which he sent to their Leaders, he wan them to favour his expedition. So without any other molestation, he came to the Banks of Rhodanus, where dwelt on each side of the River a People called Volcae. These being unacquainted with the cause of his coming, sought to stop his passage over the Water: But he was greatly assisted by those of Vivarets, and Lionois: for though many of them had transported themselves, [Page] and their goods into Daulphine, thinking to defend the Banks against him; yet such as remained, being willing to free their Countrey from such unwelcome Guests, they helped him to make Boats: informed him of a better passage higher up the River, and sent him Guides.

When his Boats were ready,He is opposed. he sent Hanno the Son of Bomilcar, up the River, to the Ford, and himself in the mean time made a shew of entring the Ford below, that Hanno charging the Gauls on their own side, and himself at the same time passing the River in their faces, might win the further Bank, which was done accordingly,His Victory in France. though with some difficulty, and thereby the enemies were dispersed.

Having passed this first brunt, and overcome both the rage of the River, and those that defended it, he was visited by the Princes of the Cisalpine-Gauls, that inhabited Piemout and Milan, who had lately revolted from the Romans. These informed him that the passage over the Alps was not so difficult as report made it,Some Gauls incourage him. and gave him Guides, with many other encouragements. Yet found he himself extremly incumbred by the Savoyards, He passeth the Alps. and lost more of his Carriages and Carthaginians than he could well spare. For he was twice strongly assaulted by them before he could recover the Plains on the other side. He was fifteen dayes passing over the Alps, wherein, besides the trouble of his enemies, he was much assaulted by foul weather, and Snow, it being now the beginning of Winter. But the fair and fertile plains which they now were entring into, with the assistance and encouragement of the Cisalpine Gauls, gave them much comfort, having nothing else of difficulty remaining, but that which from the beginning they made account to overcome by their proper Valour and Resolution, namely, the Roman Armies and resistance.

The Roman Ambassadours who had denounced War at Carthage, in their return homewards, took Spain in their way, with a purpose to draw into their Alliance as many Cities and Princes as they could. The first that they attempted were the Volcians, from whom they received this answer: that they would never joyn with them who had forsaken the Saguntines in their greatest need; and that themselves had found the Carthaginians such good Neighbours, that they meant still to adhere to them. From Spain the Ambassadours passed through Gaul, perswading them not to suffer Hannibal to pass through their Countrey, and gloried much in their own strength: But the Gauls laughed them to scorn, and had scarce Patience to hear them speak: telling them that they meant not to set their own Houses on fire, to save the Romans from burning; that the Carthaginians had never offended them as the Romans had done, who had already forced some of them out of their habitations, and made others Tributaries, who were as free as themselves.

With these unpleasing answers the Ambassadours returned home; carrying no good news of Friends like to help them, but rather that the Gauls intended to take part with their enemies. And accordingly when the Cisalpine-Gauls heard that the Carthaginians had passed Iberus, The Gauls rise against the Romans. and were marching towards Rome, the Boij, and Insubrians rose up against the Romans: Their quarrel was the late planting of Roman Colonies at Cremona, and Placentia, within Territories. Relying therefore upon the Carthaginian succour, which they thought to be at hand, laying aside all regard of those Hostages, that they had lately given to the Romans, they fell upon those Colonies. The Towns they could not win, but they forced the Roman Commissioners which were abroad,They besiege Modena. to fly into Modena, where they besieged them. But the Gauls, having little skill in besieging Cities, grew weary, and were desirous of Peace: This they did on purpose to draw on some meeting, that laying hands on the Roman Deputies, they might with them redeem their Hostages; and it fell [Page] out in part according to their wish: For Ambassadours coming to them from Rome to treat with them, they made them Prisoners. Manlius the Praetor hearing of this outrage, marched with his Army to relieve the Besieged. But the Gauls laid an Ambush in his way, that falling upon him, utterly routed him, and slew most of his Army, except a few that escaped into a defensible place upon the River Po. This being heard of at Rome, C. Atilius, the other Praetor, hasted with another Army to relieve the besieged.

But as the Gauls were too hastly,The Romans send an Army, into Spain. so the Romans were too slow in the beginning of this War. For they could not believe that Carthage, which had almost servilely endured so many indignities from them in the late peace, durst be so bold on a sudden, as to attempt the Conquest of Italy it self. Wherefore they appointed one of their Consuls to make War in Spain, and the other in Africk. Titus Sempronius went into Africk with one hundred and sixty Gallies of five to an Oar, which preparations seemed to threaten Carthage her self. P. Cornelius Scipio, the other Consul, hasted towards Spain, and by the way, touching at Massilia, he was there informed, that Hannibal had passed the River Rhodanus, whom he had thought to have found busie in Spain. Hannibal also heard of the Consuls arrival, with whom he meant to have nothing to do. Yet both sent forth Scouts, Hannibal sent out five hundred Numidians, and Scipio three hundred of his best Horse. They met, and fought, and the Romans had the better of it. But when Scipio drew near, thinking to have met with the Carthaginians, he found that they were gone three dayes before, with an intent to see the Walls of Rome.

Scipio hereupon sent his Brother Cn. Cornelius Scipio into Spain, with the greatest part of the Army, against Asdrubal, and himself with the choicest returned back, and landing at Pisa, he marched through Tuscany and Lumbardy, where he drew together the broken Bands of Manlius and Atilius, who were lately beaten by the Gauls, intending therewith to oppose the enemy, thinking to find them tired with their long Journey.

Five moneths Hannibal had spent in that tedious march from Carthagena. Hannibals losses in his march. When he had passed Rhodanus, he had in his Army but thirty eight thousand Foot, and eight thousand Horse, the rest having perished with Diseases, Enemies, Rivers, and Mountains. Having newly passed the Alps, and scarce refreshed his wearied Army in Piemont, he sought the Friendship of the Taurini, who being at this time in War with the Insubrians, (his good Friends) the Taurini refused it; whereupon he besieged their chief Town, and in three dayes wan it, the spoil whereof did much encourage his Army, and the othere Calamity terrified their Neighbours. Most of those parts would willingly have joyned with Hannibal, but when the Consul Scipio came amongst them, they began to be better advised. This wavering affection amongst the People, made the Generals to hasten to a Battel. Their meeting was at Ticinum [now Pavia] where each of them wondred at the others expedition.

The Senate at Rome were much amazed at Hannibals arrival in Italy: wherefore they sent presently to Sempronius and the other Consul, now in Sicily, Hannibal prepares to fight. to give him notice of it, and to require him speedily to return with his Army for the safeguard of Italy, which accordingly he did. Scipio and Hannibal were now so near, that fight they must e're they could part, and therefore each of them encouraged their Souldiers by the best Arguments they had: Hannibal assuring his men, that there was no mean betwixt Victory and Death.

When the Armies approached near each to other,A Battel. Scipio sent forth his Horsemen of the Gauls to begin the fight, lining them with his Darters for their assistance; himself, with his men at Arms followed slowly in good order. The Gauls, being in their Generals sight, behaved themselves gallantly, [Page] and were as bravely opposed; but their Darters at the very first, ran cowardly away without casting a Dart, for fear of being trodden down by the enemies Horse. Yet did the Gauls maintain it stoutly, and did more hurt than they received: neither was Scipio unmindful to relieve them; wherefore he adventured him self so far, that he received a dangerous wound, and had there perished, if his Son (afterwards called Africanus) had not brought him off. Whilst the Romans were busie in helping their Consul, an unexpected storm assailed them at their backs: Hannibal had appointed his Numidian Horsemen to charge the Romans in their Flank, so and to compass them about, whilst he, with his men at Arms, sustained their charge, and met them in the face. The Numidians performed it well, cutting in pieces the scattered Foot that ran away at the first encounter, and then falling on the backs of those that charged Hannibal, by this impression the Romans were shuffled together, and routed,The Romans beaten. betaking themselves to their heels, and leaving to their enemies the honour of the day.

Scipio perceiving how things were like to go, almost stole the Retreat with most of his Footmen yet unbroken, and recovered the Bridge over Ticinus: but notwithstanding his hast, he lost six hundred of his men which brought up his Rear, and should have broken down the Bridge. It was two dayes after, e're Hannibal could pass the River; Scipio in the mean time refreshing his men, and easing himself of his wound in Placentia: But when Hannibal presented them Battel again, and they durst not accept of it; the Gauls which before assisted the Romans out of fear, took courage, and left them; and thinking that now the time was come for the recovery of their Liberty, that night they fell upon the Roman Camp, wounded, and slew many, especially of those that kept the Guard,The Gauls forsake the Romans. with whose Heads in their hands they fled over to the Carthaginians, and presented their service: Hannibal received them exceeding courteously, and sent them to their own homes, that they might perswade the rest of the Nation to become his Confederates.

The same night the Consul stole a retreat, as he had done before, but not with the like success: For Hannibal had an eye upon him, and e're he was gone far,Hannibal beats the Consul. he sent his Numidians after him, and himself followed with the Body of his Army. Then had the Romans received a great blow, but the Numidians, greedy of prey, fell to ransacking their Camp, and thereby gave them liberty of escaping, only some in the Rear were either slain, or taken Prisoners. Scipio being unable to travel by reason of his wound, and judging it meet to stay for the coming of his fellow Consul, intrenched himself strongly upon the Banks of the River Trebia; which so diminished his Reputation, that every day more of the Gauls fell to Hannibal; amongst whom came in the Boij, that brought with them the Roman Commissioners: Hitherto they had kept them as Pledges, wherewith to recover their own Hostages; but now they delivered them to Hannibal as tokens of their affection to him. Hannibal being in great want of Victuals he attempted the taking of Clastidium, wherein the Romans had laid all their Store and Ammunition,He wins Clastidium. and a Brundusian that had the keeping of it, surrendred it to him for a little money.

The news of these disasters coming to Rome, filled the Senate and People with a desire of revenge, their Foot wherein their greatest strength lay, being yet entire: they therefore hasted away Sempronius with his Army, who, by speedy marches came to Scipio, upon the Banks of Trebia. The Consuls took Counsel what was fittest to be done, now that their Armies were conjoyned: Sempronius was eager to fight before Scipio recovered of his wound, that he might get the whole glory of the Victory: He also feared the election of new Consuls, his time being almost expired: But Scipio perswaded the contrary, by many arguments: yet would not Sempronius be taken off, wherewith Hannibal was exceedingly pleased, who feared nothing so much [Page] as delays. To further the desire of Sempronius, the Gauls that inhabited near to Trebia, complained of injuries done to them by the Carthaginians. Indeed they neglected to supply Hannibal with necessaries, and therefore he was bold to be his own Carver. Hereupon Sempronius sent forth a thousand Horse,Hannibals Forrages beaten. which coming unlooked for upon Hannibals Forragers, who were heavy laden, they cut many of them in pieces, and chased the rest even to their Camp. This indignity made the Carthaginians to sally out, who caused them to retire faster than they came: Sempronius relieved his own men, and Hannibal did the like: So that at length the Roman Army was drawn forth, and Battel offered, if the Carthaginians had not refused it.

This Victory (for so the Consul would name it) made the Romans very desirous to try it out in open Field, notwithstanding Scipios diswasion from it. This Hannibal was informed of by the Gauls that were in the Roman Camp: therefore he resolved to secure the Victory by adding a Stratagem to his Forces. He found in a hallow place overgrown with Reeds, a fit Trench to cover an Ambush: Therein he cast his Brother Mago with a thousand choise Horse, and as many Foot. The rest of his Army, when he had well fed, and refreshed them, he led into the Field and marched towards the Consuls. Early in the morning he had sent over the River some Numidian Horsemen to brave the enemy, and draw him forth to a bad Dinner before he had broken his Fast. Sempronius readily embraced the opportunity of fighting, and forthwith sent over the River in a miserable cold day, his Footmen, who were almost to the Arm-holes, which together with the want of Food, did much enfeeble them: The Romans were stoing in Foot,Another Battel having in all thirty six thousand: The Mass of those were ranged in a gross Battalion, guarded on the Flanks with three thousand Horse, thrusting their light armed and Darters in loose Companies before the rest in the nature of a Vaunt-guard. The Carthaginians equalled them in Foot, and exceeded them in Horse: when therefore the Roman Horse were broken by the Numidians: when their Foot were charged, both in Front and Flank, by the Spaniards, Gauls, and Elephants, and when all were pressed in the Rear by Mago and his Men out of the Ambush, then fell the Romans by heaps under their Enemies Swords,The Romans beaten. and were beaten down as well fighting as flying, so that of thirty six thousand, there escaped no more than ten thousand of all sorts.

The remainder of this broken Army was collected by Scipio, who got therewith into Placentia, stealing away the same Night, which was very rainy. Sempronius escaped with great danger, and fled to Rome, where he did his Office in choosing new Consuls for the year following, and then returned to his Province with a fresh supply against Hannibal.

The Winter proved very sharp, and unfit for service, which well pleased the Romans, who lay warm in Placentia, and Cremona. Yet did not Hannibal suffer them to lie very quiet, but vexed them with continual Alarms, assaulting divers places, and taking some. He also wan the Lygurians to him, who, to testifie their faithful love, presented him with two Roman Questors, [Treasurers,] two Collonels, and five young Gentlemen; the Sons of Senators.Hannibals Policy. These and all his other Prisoners, Hannibal held in streight places, loaden with Irons, and miserably fed. But there followers he intreated courteously, and sent them to their own Countries without ransome, protesting that he undertook the War in Italy to free them from the oppression of the Romans. By these means he drew many to his party, and assistance. But some of the Gauls, Treacheries against him. fearing that their Country should be made the seat of War, conspired against his Life: others discovered the danger to him, who yet, soon after, were ready to practice the same; which enforced Hannibal [Page] to use Perukes and false Beards the better to conceal himself from them.

At length when Summer was come, he resolved to leave these giddy Companions and so passed the Appenine Hills that he might approach nearer to Rome. So away he went having his Army much recruted with Ligurians and Gauls; and to prevent the obstructions in the ordinary way, he chose to travel through the Fennes of Tuscany. His dangerous march. In those Marshes and Bogs he lost all his Elephants save one, with one of his own eyes, through the moistness of the Air, and by lodging on the cold Ground: Yet at last with much ado, he recovered the firm and fertile Plains, and Quartered about Arretium, where he somewhat refreshed his weary Army, and heard news of the Roman Consuls.

C. Flaminius and Cn. Servilius, were newly chosen Consuls for this year: The first a tractable man, wholly governed by the Senate; the other a hot-headed man, who fearing some obstruction, gat him out of the City before the day of Election, that he might, as soon as he was chosen, take possession of his Office: fearing lest he should lose his Honour, which he hoped to gain in the War. The Senators were so displeased at this, that they sent for him back; but he neglected their Command, and hasted to meet with the Carthaginians, whom he found at Arretium.

Hannibal was well pleased with the fiery disposition of this Consul, and therefore provoked him by many indignities, hoping thereby to draw him to fight, ere Servilius came with the rest of the Army. For which end he put to Fire and Sword all the Country round about him, even under the Consuls Nose. By this Flaminius thought his Honour to be much impaired, and therefore advanced towards the Enemy. Many advised him to stay for his Colleague, but he would not be perswaded: Then he commanded the Army to march.

All the Territory of Cortona as far as to the Lake of Thrasymene was on a light Fire, which, whilst Flaminius thought to quench with his enemies blood, he pursued Hannibal so unadvisedly, that he fell, with his whole Army into an Ambush: from thence he was charged unaware from all sides, so that he knew not which way to turn, nor how to make resistance. There was he slain in that place, accompanied with the Carcasses of fifteen thousand of his Countrymen: About six thousand of his Vantguard took courage out of desparation, and breaking through their Enemies, they recovered the tops of the Mountains: but being discovered there, Maharbal was sent after them,The Romans beaten again. who overtook them by Night in a Village, and surrounded them with his Horse, and so they yielded, rendring up their Arms upon promise of life and liberty. This accord Hannibal refused to confirm, and so made them all Prisoners.

At this time he had about fifteen thousand Prisoners: all that were not Romans he set free without ransome, still protesting, that for their sakes he came into Italy: But the Romans he kept in streight Prison, and held them to hard meat.

Presently after the Battel of Thrasymene, C. Sempronius, with four thousand Horse came neer to Hannibals Camp. He was sent from Ariminum by Servilius, the other Consul, to encrease the strength of Flaminius, but coming too late, he only encreased the misadventure. Hannibal sent out Maharbal to intercept him, who finding them amazed at the ill news of the late loss,The Romans beaten. charged, and brake them, killing almost half of them, and drew the rest simply to yield to mercy. Servilius hearing of the overthrow and death of his Colleague, hasted to Rome for the defence of it.

Greatly were the Romans amazed at these disasters,Great fear at Rome. and their approaching [Page] danger. Wherefore they had recourse to a remedy which had been long out of use, and that was, to choose a Dictator, whose power was above the Consuls, and scarcely subject to the Control of the whole City: And now they chose Q. Fabius Maximus, A Dictator chosen. the best reputed Man of War in the City, and Fabius chose M. Minutius Rufus, Master of the Horse, who was as the Dictators Lieutenant.

The first act of Fabius was the reformation of somewhat that was amiss in matter of Religion: then were the Walls and Towers of Rome repaired, and fortified, the Bridges upon Rivers were broken down, and all care taken for the defence of Rome it self. Four Legions the Dictator raised in hast, and from Ariminum he received the Army which Servilius had conducted thither. With these he marched apace after Hannibal, not to fight, but to affront him.Fabius his watiness. He always lodged upon high grounds, and of hard access, knowing that the Roman Horse were far inferiour to the Numidians. Hannibal in the mean while pursued his Victory, and ranged over all the Countries, using all manner of cruelty towards the Inhabitants, especially those of the Roman Nation, of whom he put all to the Sword that were able to bear Arms. Passing by Spoletum, and Ancona, he encamped upon the Adriatick shores, refreshing his diseased and over travelled Army: and armed his Africans, after the Roman manner, and made his dispatches for Carthage, presenting his Friends, (which were very many) with part of the Spoils that he had gotten.

Having refreshed his Army, cured his wounded, and fed his Horses, he followed the course of the Adriatick Shore towards Apulia, a Northern Province of the Kingdom of Naples, spoiling all that lay in his way. Yet took he not one City in all those Countries. Indeed he assaied Spoletum, but finding it well defended,Hannibals Policy. he presently gave it over. All his care was to weaken the Romans in force and reputation; knowing that when he was absolute Master of the Field, if would not be long before the walled Cities would open their Gates to him. To this end he presented Fabius with Battel, and provoked him with all manner of bravado's; but Fabius would not bite: His design was to attend the Carthaginians so neer as to keep them from stragling,Fabius his Wisdom. and to preserve the Country from utter spoil. Thus by degrees he inured his Men to dangers, and brought them first to look on the Lion afar off, that at length they might adventure to sit on his tail.

But Minutius had a contrary disposition, and was as fiery as Flaminius, taxing Fabius with cowardliness and fear; yet nothing moved this wary Dictator: He suffered Hannibal to cross the Apennine Mountains, and to fall upon the rich and pleasant Territories of Campania: Fabius still keeping upon the Hills, and fast grounds. When Hannibal saw that he could by no means draw him to fight, and that the Winter drew on, he resolved to rest his Army that was loaden with spoil, in some safe and plentiful Country till the Spring came again. But before he could do this, he must pass along by the Dictators Camp, that hung over his head: For there was no other way for him to get out of this fertile Country which he had already wasted. But by the errour of his Guide he was brought (as it were) into a pinfold. Now began the wisdom of Fabius to be admired, and applauded, as if he had caught the Carthaginians in a trap. But Hannibal freed himself by a fine invention: He had gotten about two thousand Kine,Hannibals Stratagem. upon whose Horns he tyed dry Fagots, and in the dark Night setting them on fire, he caused them to be driven up the Hill. The sight was strange and terrible to the Romans, and Fabius himself thinking it to be a devise to circumvent him, kept within his Trenches. So Hannibal and his Army escaped the danger, and gat into a safe Country. Then did he make semblance of marching towards Rome, the Dictator coasting him after the wonted manner; and keeping still on the high [Page] grounds betwixt him and the City, whilst the Carthaginians wasted all the plain Countries, and taking Geryon in Apulia, he turned it into Barns and Storehouses for the Winter, and encamped under the broken Walls. Thus little was done till the Dictator was called home to Rome about some business of Religion; and when he went, he left the Army in charge with Minutius, the Master of the Horse.

Minutius was glad of this opportunity to shew his sufficiency. He was perswaded that the Romans in plain Field would beat the Carthaginians, who had got the former Victories by subtilty, and ambushes. All the Army was of his opinion, and therefore they preferred his forwardness before the cold wariness of Fabius: Hereupon he resolved to Fight, though he had been peremtorily forbidden by the Dictator, and the breach of whose command was Death: But Minutius thought that the honour of the Victory, and love of the Army, would secure him. Hannibal on the other side was very glad that he should play with a more adventurous Gamster: therefore he drew neer, and provoked the Romans, sending forth a third part of his Army to wast the Country. There was a piece of high and advantageous Ground between the two Armies: Hannibal sent two thousand Horse to seize upon it: But Minutius by fine force, won it from them, and encamped upon it, whereby he became a nearer Neighbour to Hannibal.

Minutius for many days not stirring, Hannibal sent forth many of his men to fetch in Harvest. This advantage Minutius wisely espied, and therefore drawing forth his Army, presented Battel to Hannibal, but he was not now in case to accept of it; wherefere Minutius sent out some against the Forragers,Hannibals Forragers beaten. who were scattered all over the Fields, and loaden with Booty, and so were easily overthrown. It angred Hannibal that he was not able to help them, but it angred him worse when the Romans took heart to assault his Trenches. But in the heat of this business Asdrubal came from Geryon with four thousand Horse, which emboldned Hannibal to issue forth against the Romans, to whom he did not so much hurt as he had received.

For this piece of service Minutius was highly honoured by the Army, and more cryed up by the People at Rome, all judging him more worthy of Command than Fabius. But the Dictator was not so joyful of the news, as angry that Minutius had disobeyed his command. He said, that he knew his own place, and that he would teach the Master of the Horse to know it also; and that he would make him give an account for what he had done in his absence.Minutius made equal with Fabius. The People much disliked these his Speeches, and made an Act, that Minutius should be joyned in equal authority with the Dictator.

Before this Business was effected, Fabius seeing how things were like to go, dispatched the election of a new Consul in the room of Flaminius, and having finished his business, went out of the City towards his Army. But the news of Minutius his advancement was at the Camp as soon as he, so that his Lieutenant treated with him now as his Colleague, asking him how they should divide their authority: Fabius briefly told him, that seeing the Citizens had made the Master of the Horse equal with the Dictator, he would divide the Legions with him by Lot, according to the custom: Minutius was ill pleased with this, for with half the Army he could not work such wonders as he hoped for. Yet meant he to do his best: and so taking half the Army, he encamped about a mile and a half from Fabius.

It behoved the Master of the Horse to make good the opinion which had thus advanced him; therefore he sought good occasion to fight, to [Page] which Hannibal, was as forward as he. The Country between them was open and bare, yet Hannibal found means to lay an ambush in it: For the sides of the Valley had many spacious Caves, and Hannibal in the Night, thrust into them five hundred Horse,A Battel. and five thousand Foot: and least they should be discovered, he made offer betimes in the Morning to seize upon a piece of ground that lay on the other side from the Caves, thereby turning all their eyes that way. Minutius hoping to increase his honour as he had gotten it, sent first his light Armuture, then his Horse, and at length he followed in Person with the Legions. He was soon caught, and so invironed on all hands, that he neither knew how to make resistance, nor a safe retreat. In this dangerous case, whilst the Romans defended themselves,The Romans beaten. they lost many of their best men. But Fabius drew neer in good order to relieve them, and doing therein the office of a good Citizen, regarding more the good of his Country, than the disgrace which he had wrongfully sustained.

Upon Fabius his approach, Hannibal retired: Fearing (as he said) to be well wet with the Cloud that had hung so long upon the Hill-tops. Minutius forthwith submitted himself to Fabius, by whose favour he acknowledged, that his life was preserved. Thence forward the War went on slowly whilst Fabius his Dictatorship lasted, and the year following also when he had delivered up his charge to to the Consuls, that followed his instructions.

With little pleasure did they of the poorer sort in Rome hear the great commendations which were given to Fabius by the principal Citizens, because the War was not finished, nor much done tending thereto: And this affection was very helpful to Terentius Varro in his suit for the Consulship; and farther to help him, he had a kinsman, Bibius Herennius, Tribune of the People: He boldly affirmed that Hannibal was drawn into Italy, and suffered there to range at his pleasure by the Noblemen; that without a Plebeian Consul the War would never be ended, &c. By which perswasions the multitude were won to be wholly for Terentius, to the great vexation of the Nobles, who could not endure such an upstart: But nothing could hinder the choise of Terentius: Wherefore the Nobles, (to ballast this hot-headed man) set up L. Aemilius Paulus, a gallant man and a brave Captain, to stand for the other Consuls place, and he easily carried it.

These new Consuls, Varro, and Paulus, omitted no diligence in preparing for the War, wherein, though Varro made the greatest noife, boasting what wonders he would do if he could but once see Hannibal, yet the care, and prudence of Paulus did tend much more towards the effecting of it. He wrote to the two old Consuls to forbear fighting, and yet to ply the Carthaginians with daily Skirmishes, and so to weaken them by degrees, that when he and his Fellow Consul came with the new Army, they might find the four old Legions well accustomed to the Enemy, and the Enemy well weakened. These new Consuls raised an Army of above eighty thousand Foot, and six thousand Horse.

Hannibal all this while lay at Geryon, where all his provision, and store was. The Romans, to be neer him, lodged about Canusium, laying up most of their provisions in the Castle of Cannae. Cannae Castle taken. This place Hannibal wan, and thereby not only furnished himself, but compelled his Enemies to want many necessaries: Hereby he also enabled himself to stay in that open Country, fit for the service of the Horse. Of this mishap when Servilius had informed the Senate, it then seemed needful to them to [...] Battel with the Carthaginian, rather than to suffer him thus to roo [...] himself in Italy.

[Page] When all things vvere ready in the City, and the season of the year commodious, the two Consuls, with their Army set forward against Hannibal. This was done with great solemnity: Sacrifices and solemn Vows were made to Jupiter, and the other Gods, for good success and Victory: and the Generals were accompanied with a great number that brought them out of the City, and dismissed them with Friendly leave-taking, and good wishes.

These new Generals arriving at the Camp, dismissed M. Atilius, one of the last years Consuls, because of his age, and retained Servilius with them, as their assistant. Aemilius laboured to encourage his men, telling them, that the enemy had stole all the former Victories by his Ambushes; that otherwise the Romans were far beyond them in Valour &c. and therefore he exhorted them to play the men and do their best. This set them on fire to be dealing with the Carthagiuians, and herein Varro concurred with them, longing for an opportunity to get the honour which he promised to himself, having now such a numerous Army. By this means the Romans fell into a great inconvenience by the disagreement of their Generals; Varro would fight,Varro makes hast to figh [...]. and Aemilius would not for the present, hoping for better advantage ere long, when the enemy should be forced to dislodg out of the plain Country. The Consuls command in turns every day. Aemilius lodged six miles from Hannibal where the ground was uneven. Terentius the next day descended into the plains, his Colleague beseeching him to stay, but could not prevail. He sat down neer to the Carthaginian, who yet gave him but a rude vvelcome, and entertainment. The Carthaginian Horse, and light Armature fell upon the Roman Vaunt-Courriers, and put the whole Army into a tumult, whilst it was yet in its march; but the Carthaginians were beaten off; though not without loss. The next day Aemilius, who could not securely draw back the Army, encamped upon the River Aufidus, sending part of his Forces over the River where they encamped themselves, with the rest he fortified and kept within his Trenches. Varro was perswaded that it concerned him in honour to make good his word to the People of Rome. When therefore it was his turn to Command, at the break of Day he began to pass the River, without staying to bid his Colleague good morrow: But Paulus came to him, labouring by all means to disswade him. Terentius had norhing to answer but that his honour was engaged. Hannibal had twice or thrice braved them, which must not be endured. When Aemilius perceived that he could not prevail, he was careful that what must be done, might be done well. Ten thousand Foot he caused to be left behind in the Camp, opposite to the Carthaginians, to the intent that Hannibal might be forced to do the like, or else when they were in fight, these might fall upon his Camp, and take it,They prepare to fight. with all the wealth therein, which would much distract the Carthaginians. This done the Consuls drew forth their Army over the Water, and ranged them in order of Battel.

This Hannibal was very glad of, and therefore without any delay, passed over the River also, leaving in his own Camp enow to defend it, and no more. To encourage his men, he told them how fit the ground was wherein they were to fight; and that therefore they were to thank the Gods who had so infatuated the enemies as to choose such a place where the stronger in Horse was sure to prevail. Besides (said he) These are the men whom you have beaten as often as you have seen them: and now you are to fight for their Cities, and all the Riches that are in them, and ere many hours pass ye shall be Lords of all that the Romans enjoy. This set his men [...] to be it; and at the same time came his Brother Mago, whom he had sent to view the countenance of the Enemy, to whom he said, What news? What works are we like to have? Work enough, answered [Page] Mago, for they are a horrible Company; As horrible a many as they be, said Hannibal, I tell thee that amongst them all, there is not one man whose name is Mago, and therewith he fell a laughing, which all the Souldiers also took for a good Omen.

In this great day the Carthaginian excelled himself, expressing abundance of Military skill,The great Battel at Cannae. and of greatness of spirit, and courage. He so marshalled his Army, that all hands were brought to fight, where every one might do the best service. His Darters, and Slingers he sent before to encounter the Roman Velites: His Africans Armed after the Roman manner, made the two Wings, very deep in File. Between these he ranged the Gauls and Spaniards armed, the first vvith broad Swords, and the other vvith short and vvell-pointed Blades. The Gauls vvere strong of Body, and furious in giving the Charge, but soon vvearied, spending their violence at the first brunt. The Spaniards vvere less eager but more wary. These Hannibal caused to advance, leaving void the place wherein they had stood, and into vvhich they might fall back, if they vvere overhardly pressed. Between the left Batallion by the River side, vvere the Gauls and Spanish Horse under Asdrubal: On the right Wing vvas Maharbal vvith the Numidian Horse. Hannibal himself vvith his Brother Mago, led the Rear. His Army this day vvas ten thousand Horse, and forty thousand Foot: His Enemies had two to one against him in Foot, and he five to three against them in Horse.

The Roman Army vvas marshelled after their usual manner. On the right hand vvere the Roman Horsemen under the Consul Paulus: On the left Wing vvas Varro with the rest of the Horse vvich were of the Latines and other associates, and Servilius had the leading of the Battel. The Sun was newly ri [...]en, and offended neither part, the Carthaginians having their faces Northward, and the Romans Southward.

After some light Skirmirshes betvveen the tvvo Forlorns, Asdrubal brake in upon the Consul Paulus, and after a rough charge, and much execution done, the Roman Horse vvere overborn, and driven by plain force to a staggering recoil. When the Battels came to joyning, the Roman Legionaries found vvork enough, and more than enough to break that Body upon vvhich at first they fell: yet at last Hannibals men vvere forced to a hasty retreat. But vvhilst the Legions, follovving their supposed Victory, rushed on upon those that stood before them, and thereby engaged themselves deeply vvithin the principal strength of the Enemy, the two African Battalions on either side, advanced so far, that getting beyond the Rear of them, they almost vvholly inclosed them. Asdrubal having broken the Troops of the Roman Horse, follovved them along upon the River side, beating dovvn, and killing most of them vvithout regard of taking Prisoners. The Consul Paulus left his Horse, and cast himself amongst the Legions, as hoping by them to make good the day. But he failed of his expectation: Yet did he cheer up his men as vvell as he could both by Words, and Example, slaying many vvith his ovvn hands. The like did Hannibal amongst his Carthaginians in the same part of the Battel, but vvith better success. For the Consul received a blovv from a Sling that vvounded him much, and though a Troop of Roman Gentlemen did their best to save him from further harm, yet vvas he so hardly laid at, that by vvounds and vveakness he vvas compelled to forsake his Horse: vvhereupon all his Company also allighted.

Hannibal being near, and seeing this, said, pleasantly, I had rather he would have delivered them to me bound, hand and foot, meaning, that he had them almost as safe as if they had been so bound. All this vvhile Varro, vvith his associates in the left Wing, vvas marvellously troubled with [Page] Maharbal, and his Numidians; who beating up and down upon the great Sandy plain, raised a foul dust, which by a strong South wind, was driven into the eyes and mouths of the Romans. These using the advantage both of their number and lightness, wearied the Consul and his followers exceedingly, neither giving nor sustaining any charge, but continually making offers and then wheeling about. Yet at the first, they seemed to promise him a happy day of it. For when the Battels were even ready to joyn, five hundred of these Numidians came pricking away from their Fellows, with their Shields on their backs, as was the manner of those which yielded, and throwing down their Arms, yielded themselves, Varro had no leasure then to examine them, but bad them to rest quietly behind his Army till all was done. These crafty Marchants did as he bad them for a while, till they had opportunity to put their design in execution. Under their Jackets they had short Swords and Poniards, with which and other Weapons that they gathered up of those that were slain, they flew upon the hindmost of the Romans, whilst all eyes were bent another way,Hannibals Policy. The Romans beaten. where they did much mischief, and raised great terrour. Thus Hannibal in a plain ground found means to lay an Ambush at the back of his enemies.

The last blow that put an end to all, was given by the same hand that gave the first. Asdrubal having routed and slain all the Roman Horse, save the Company of A milius that joyned themselves to the Foot, did not stay to charge upon the face of the Legions, but, fetching a compass, he came up to the Numidi [...] ns with whom he joyned, and gave upon Terentius. This fearful Cloud prognosticated a dismal storm; wherefore Terentius his followers, having wearied themselves much in doing little, and seeing more work towards then they were like to sustain, thought it their saffest way to secure themselves by present flight. The Consul also was as careful to provide for his own security as were they. Now he found that it was one thing to talk of Hannibal at Rome, and another to encounter him. Close at the heels of him and his flying Troops were Numidians, appointed by Asdrubal to the pursute as fittest for that service. Asdrubal himself with his Gauls and Spanish Horse, fetching a compass, fell upon the backs of the Romans, who were almost surrounded, and much distressed before. Here began a miserable slaughter, the vanquished multitude thronging each other, not finding which way to turn. Aemilius, who could not sit his Horse before, whilst the spaces were open by which he might have withdrawn himself, was now unable to fly, his way being stopt by a throng of his miserable followers, and heaps of Bodies, that fell apace in that great Carnage.

In this terrible overthrow dyed all the Roman Foot, save two or three thousand, who escaped into their lesser Camp; and the Night following about four thousand Foot and two hundred Horse fled into Canusium. The Camps were both yielded to Hannibal by those who yet remained in them. Terentius the Consul recovered Venusia with seventy at most in his Company; the rest of his Troops were scattered over the Fields, and gathered up by the Numidians and made Prisoners. There died in this great Battel of Cannae, besides the Consul Paulus, two of the Roman Questors, twenty one Collonels, eighty Senators, or such as had born Office; amongst whom was Servilius, the last years Consul, and Minutius, late Master of the Horse, and about eight thousand were taken Prisoners. Hannibal lost about four thousand Gauls: fifteen hundred Spaniards and Africans, and about two hundred Horse. A loss not sensible in the joy of so great a Victory; which if he had pursued, as Maharbal advised him, and forthwith marched against Rome, probably the War had presently been at an end. But Hannibal knew [Page] how to get, not how to use a Victory: and God had otherwise determined.

When Hannibal had sacked the Roman Camps, and trused up the spoils, he dislodged and marched away to Samnium, finding a disposition in many People thereabouts to forsake the Romans, and to make aliance with him. The first Town that opened their Gates to him,Many Towns intertain Hannibal. was Cossag, where he laid up his Baggage; and leaving his Brother Mago to take in other places, he hastened into Campania. He dismissed all his Prisoners that were nor Romans, without ransom; whereby he won the affections of most of the Common People in Italy, to incline to him. He also gave leave to his Roman Prisoners to sent to Rome to procure their ransom, with whom he sent Carthalo, the General of his Horse, to see how Rome stood affected to peace. The Senate commanded Carthalo to depart out of their Territories, and refused to redeem their Prisoners; probably, because they wanted Mony wherewithal to do it.

Campania is a most pleasant and fruitful Country, and Capua, the chief City in it, rich and wealthy, the Citizens despised now the unfortunate virtue of the Romans, and sent Ambassadours to Hannibal with whom these Articles were agreed upon: That the Campans should be absolutely free, and Governed by their own Laws: That no Citizens of theirs should be subject to any Carthaginian Magistrate in War or Peace; and that Hannibal should deliver to the Campans three hundred Roman Prisoners, such as themselves should choose, whom they might exchange for their Gentlemen that were Hostages with the Romans. Then did Hannibal hasten towards Capua, leaving Naples that he had thought to take in by Scalado, but found the Walls too high, and himself not fully furnished for a Siege.Capua intertains him. At Capua he was intertained with great solemnity and Pomp; all the Town being so earnestly in love with their new Guests that they murthered all the Romans that at present they could come by.

The same course with these of Capua, ran the other Cities thereabout, except Nola, Nuceria, Naples, Cassiline, and Acenae, which yet stood out for the Romans. Rome it self was in great fear of Hannibals coming at the first report of the overthrow at Cannae; The Romans mourn. and the grief of that loss was so general, and immoderate, that it much hindred their provision against apparent danger. All the Senators found work enough to quiet the Peoples lamentations. Courriers were sent forth to bring them certain tidings how things went, whereof when Letters from the Consul Varro had fully informed them, they were so amazed, that they ran into Barbarous Superstition, and by the advice of their Southsayers, they buried two Men, and two Women alive in the Ox-market. Ambassadours also were sent to the Oracle at Delphi, Their Superstition. to enquire with what Prayers and Supplications they might pacifie the Gods, and obtain an end of their calamities.

In the midst of these extremities they called home their Consul Terentius that he might name a Dictator, and all sorts of people went forth to meet him, and welcome him home, which was done to hold up their reputation. M. Junius was chosen for the Dictator, A Dictator chosen. and T. Sempronius Master of the Horse. These fell presently to the mustring of Forces, and raised four Legions and a thousand Horse, yet were they faign to take some that were very Boys, and they encreased their number by adding to them eight thousand sturdy Slaves, to whom liberty was promised if they would deserve it by their manly service: The Dictator also Proclaimed, that whosoever were in debt and could not pay it, or that had committed any capital offence, should be pardoned if they would serve in the War: and to Arm these they were faign to take down out of their Temples the spoils of their enemies that had been there hung up.

[Page] The Dictator having dispatched all needful businesses in the City, took the Field with twenty five thousand Men, with whom he marched into Campania, and did little more then to keep Hannibal from spoiling the Country. Marcellus, one of the Roman Praetors, lying at Ostia with a Legion and fifteen hundred Souldiers newly taken up, with whom he should have gone into Sicily, hearing of the overthrow at Cannae, sent his new levied men to Rome for the defence of it, and with his Legion marched to Nola to help the Citizens there: Hannibal had many Friends in Nola amongst the common People, and therefore brought his Army thither; and on a day seeing the Walls unmanned, he bad his Souldiers bring the Ladders and scale them:Hannibal beaten. But whilst they did it, and were in confusion. Marcellus with his men, issued out at three several Gates, and set upon the Carthaginians, expecting no such thing, and did such execution amongst them, that this was accounted a Victory, and reputed the bravect act in all those Wars, from whence they concluded that Hannibal might be overcome.

From thence Hannibal went to Acerrae, where being refused entrance, he laid Siege to it on every side,Acerrae taken by Hannibal. wherewith the Citizens being terrified, before his works were finished, they stole out by Night, and left the Town empty; which Hannibal sackt and burnt, then hearing that the Dictator was about Cassiline, thither vvent he, but found him not; only many Companies of the Roman Confederats vvere gotten into the Town, and kept it: The Citizens vvere affected to Hannibal, and vvould faign have been free from there Guests, vvho finding their intent, in a Night slew all the Citizens,Cassiline besieged. and fortified a part of the City against the enemy. Hannibal gave divers assaults to it, but vvas still repelled vvith loss, and may sallies they made vvith variable success: Hannibal mined, and they countermined, so that he vvas driven to enclose them, that he might vvin it by Famine. T. Sempronius Gracchus, Master of the Horse lay up the River vvith the Roman Army, and vvould faign have relieved the Besieged, but durst not venture. Barrels of Corn he sent floating down the River to relieve them, which, being discovered, came into Hannibals hands. Gracchus cost abundance of Nuts into the stream, vvhich faintly sustained the Besieged. At length vvhen all their food vvas spent, and vvhatsoever green thing grevv under the Walls, the Carthaginians plovved up the ground, and the besieged presently sovved it vvith Rape-seed. Hannibal admired their patience, and said, That he meant not to stay there till the Rapes were grown, and therefore, vvhereas he had intended to have made them an example for their obstinacy, he vvas novv content to grant them their lives upon an easie ransom, and so quietly dismissed them. The time of the year novv being come, Hannibal retired into Capua, vvhere he vvintered, and vvhere (as some say) his Army vvas corrupted vvith the pleasures and plenty there, and made more effeminate than before.

About this time Hannibal sent his Brother Mago to Carthage vvith the joyful nevvs of this great Victory.Mago sent to Carthage. He told the Carthaginian Senate, vvith hovv many Roman Generals his Brother had fought, hovv many Consuls he had chased, vvounded, or slain. Hovv the Romans, vvho never used to shun a Battel, vvere novv grown so cold that they thought their Dictator Fabius the only good Captain. That not vvithout reason their spirits were thus abated, since Hannibal had slain above two hundred and six thousand of them, and taken above fifty thousand Prisoners. He told them how many States in Italy followed the Fortune of those great Victories. He told them that the War was even at an end, if they vvould follovv it close and give the Romans no time of breathing. He wished them to consider that the War was carried into an enemies Country, that so many Battels had diminished his Brothers Army, that the Souldiers that had deserved so well, [Page] ought to be well rewarded, and that it was not good to burden their new Italian Friends with exactions of Mony, Corn, &c. But that these must be sent from Carthage. Lastly he caused the Gold Rings, taken from the Fingers of the Roman Knights that were slain, to be powred out before them, which being measured, filled three Bushels.

This errand of Mago for the present found extraordinary good welcome; And large supplies vvere voted to be sent to him:Large supplies promised to Hannibal. But his old enemy Hanno, obstructed them, and the too much Parsimony, of the Citizens was the cause that there was very little done, and that which was done came too late. However, Mago brings the news of the great supply which was decreed to be sent; which much rejoyced Hannibal and his new confederates. The Spring drew on vvhen the supply was expected, but there came no more than a few Elephants, and Hannibal was forced to rest contented with them. Then did he take the Field, and sought to make himself Master of some good Haven Town that might serve to intertain the Carthaginian Fleet when it should arrive with the supplies. For this end he sent Himilco, who by the help of his good Friends the Brusians, won Petilia; he won also Concentia and Crotan, and the City of Locri, Divers Cities taken. and many other places; only the Town of Rhegium, over against Sicily, held out against him.

The Romans at this time were in such a case, that Hannibal vvith a little help from Carthage, might have reduced them to great extremity. But his own Citizens suffered him to languish with expectation of their promised supplies, which being still deferred from year to year, caused as great opportunities to be lost,The promised supplies come not. as a Conqueror could have desired. But whatsoever Hannibal thought, he was faign to apply himself to his Italian Friends, and to feed them with Hopes, and to trifle way his time about Nola, Naples, Cumae, &c. being loath to weaken his Army by a hard Siege; that was to be reserved for a vvork of more importance. Many offers he made upon Nola, but always vvith bad success. Once Mercellus fought a Battel with him there, under the Walls of the City, having the Citizens to assist him, vvherein Hannibal lost a thousand men; which was no great marvail; his forces being then divided, and imployed in sundry parts of Italy at once.

At this time T. Sempronius Gracchus, and Q. Fabius Maximus, the late famous Dictator, were chosen Consuls. But Fabius was detained at Rome about matters of Religion, or Superstition rather, vvherewith the City vvas commonly, especially in the times of danger, very much troubled, so Gracchus alone, vvith a Consular Army, waited upon Hannibal amongst the Campanes, not able to meet him in the Field, yet attentive to all occasions that should be presented. The Slaves, that lately had been Armed, were a great part of his followers. These and the rest of his men Gracchus continnally trained,Gracchus his Prudence. and had not a greater care to make his Army skilful in the exercises of War, than in keeping it from quarrels that might arise by their upbrading one another vvith their base condition.

Gracchus at this time had a bickering vvith the Capuans, upon whom he came at unawares,The Capuans beaten. and slew above two thousand of them, and took their Camp, but staid not long to rif [...]le it for fear of Hannibal, that lay not far off. By this his Providence he escaped a greater loss, than he brought upon the Capuans: For vvhen Hannibal heard hovv things vvent, he presently marched thither, hoping to find these young Souldiers and Slaves busied in loading themselves vvith the Booty: But they were all gotten safe into Cumae, which so angred Hannibal, that at the earnest request of the Capuans, he assailed it the next day. Much labour, and vvith ill success he spent about this Town.Cum [...] besieed. He raised a Woodden Tower, & brought it close to the Walls [Page] thereby to assault it, but they vvithin built a higher Tower, vvhence they made resistance, and found means to set Hannibals Tower on fire, and vvhilst the Carthaginians were busie in quenching the fire, they issued out, charged them valiantly and drove them to their Trenches. The Consul vvisely sounded a retreat in time, or Hannibal had requited them. The day following, Hannibal presented Battel to them, but Gracchus refused it:The Siege raised. Seeing therefore no likelyhood to prevail, he raised his Siege and departed.

About this time Fabius, the other Consul, took the Field, and recovered some small Towns that Hannibal had taken, and punished the Inhabitants severely for their revolt, the Carthaginians Army vvas too small to Garrison all the Towns that had yielded to them, and withall, to abide (as it must do) strong in the Field. Wherefore Hannibal, attending the supply from Carthage that would enable him to strike at Rome it self, vvas driven in the mean time to alter his course of War; and instead of making (as he had formerly done) a general invasion upon the vvhole Country, he vvas faign to vvait upon occasions, that grevv daily more commodious to the Enemy,Hannibal delaies. than to him. When Hannibal vvas gone to Winter into Apulia, Marcellus vvasted the Country of the Hirpines, and Samnites: the like did Fabius in Campania.

The People of Rome vvere very intentive upon the Work they had in hand, they continued Fabius in his Consulship, and joyned vvith him Cladius Marcellus. Of these two, Fabius vvas called the Shield, and Marcellus the Roman Sword. The great Name of these Consuls, and the great preparations which they made, put the Campans in fear that Capua it self should be besieged, wherefore at their earnest request Hannibal came from Arpi, and having comforted his Friends, on a sudden he fell upon Puteoli, a Sea-town of Campania, about vvhich he spent three days in vain, there being six thousand in Garrison, vvherefore he left it, and marched to Tarentum, vvherein he had great intelligence.

In the mean time Hanno made a journy against Beneventum, A Battel. where T. Gracchus met him. Hanno had vvith him about seventeen thousand Foot, Brutians, and Lucans, besides twelve hundred Horse, most of them Numidians and Moors. Four hours he held the Romans vvork ere it could be perceived to vvhich side Victory would incline. But Gracchus his Souldiers, which were most of them Slaves, had received from him a peremptory denunciation, that this day or never they must purchase their Liberty, by bringing every man an Enemies Head. The sweet reward of Liberty vvas so desireable, that they feared no danger in earning it, though the cutting off their Enemies Heads troubled them exceedingly, vvhich Gracchus perceiving, proclaimed that they should cast away the Heads, assuring them that they should have their liberty presently after the Battel, if they wan the day. This made them run headlong upon the Enemy, vvhom their desperate fury had soon overthrown, if the Roman Horse could have made their party good against the Numidians. But though Hanno did vvhat he could, and pressed so hard upon the Roman Battel, that four thousand of the Slaves retired to a ground of strength,The Cartbaginians beaten. yet was he glad at length to save himself by flight vvith two thousand Horse, all the rest being either slain or taken. Gracchus performed his promise to the Slaves, making them free: only on those four thousand, that vvent aside in the Battel, he inflicted this slight punishment, that as long as they served in the Wars, they should eat standing, unless sickness forced them to break this order. So Gracchus vvith his Army returned into Beneventum, vvhere the newly-enfranchised Souldiers, were Feasted in publike by the Townsmen, some sitting, some [Page] standing and all vvith their Heads covered, as the manner of such was, vvith vvhite Caps. This vvas the first Battel vvorthy of note, that the Carthaginians lost since the coming of Hannibal into Italy.

Thus the Romans by degrees began to get heart, and repair their breaches, only their Treasury was very empty, vvhereupon the People vvere called together,The Romans poverty, how supplied. and vvere plainly told, that in this exigent, there must be no taking of mony for Victuals, Weapons, Apparel, or other necessaries for the Souldiers, but that they must trust the Common-vvealth with the loan of these things till the Wars vvere ended. This vvas vvillingly assented to, and the Armies vvere vvell supplyed both at home and abroad.

In the mean time the Roman Generals omitted no part of industry in seeking to recover what had been lost.Cassiline taken by the Romans. Cassiline was besieged by Fabius, unto whose assistance Marcellus came; The Town was well defended by a Carthaginian Garrison for a long time, but at length, the Inhabitants grew fearful, craved a Parlee, and agreed to deliver it up, so as all might have liberty to depart whither they pleased. This was consented to, yet as they were issuing out, Marcellus seizing upon a Gate, entred with his Army and put all to the Sword: only about fifty that had gotten out, ran to Fabius, who saved them, and sent them to Capua.

Hannibal was this while about Terentum, but after long expectation of having it delivered to him, he was faign to depart without it. So he went to Salapia, which he intended to make his wintring place, and began to Victual it.

The new Consuls chosen at Rome, were Q. Fabius, the Son of the present Consul, and T. Sempronius Gracchus the second time. The old Fabius became Lieutenant to his Son; and on a time when the old man came to the Camp, his Son rode out to meet him. Eleven of the twelve Lictiors, let him pass by on Horse-back, which was against the custom; but the Son perceiving this, bad the last of the Lictiors to take notice of it, who thereupon bad old Fabius alight, and come to the Consul on Foot: the Father cheerfully did so, saying, It was my mind, Son, to make tryal, whether thou didst understand thy Self to be Consul. Altinius a wealthy Citizen of Arpi, came to Fabius and offered to deliver the Town into his hands. Hannibal hearing of it, was glad, and sent for the Wife and Children of Altinius into his Camp, he examined them by torment, and being assured of the Treason, he commanded them to be burnt, and seized upon all Altinius his wealth.Arpi taken by the Romans. Fabius shortly after came to Arpi, which he took by Scalado in a stormy Night. Five thousand of Hannibals Souldiers lay in the Town, and of the Arpines there were about three thousand. These were thrust formest by the Carthaginian Garrison, who suspected them, and therefore thought it no wisdom to trust them at their backs. But after some little resistance, the Arpines gave over the sight, and Parlied with the Romans, and the Arpine Pretor, going to the Roman Consul, received his Faith for the security of the Town, wherefore they presently made head against the Garrison, yet did the Carthaginians make stout resistance, till it was agreed that they should pass safely, and return to Hannibal.

About this time Cliternum was taken by Sempronius Tuditanus, one of the Roman Praetors. Also one hundred and twelve Gentlemen of Capua offered their service to C. Fulvius, the other Praetor, only upon condition to have their goods restored to them: which shewed that their affections were turned from Hannibal to the Romans. The Consentines also and the Thurines, which had yielded to Hannibal, when there was no appearance of those great succours which were promised from Carthage, returned to their old allegiance again. Others would have done the like,The Romans beaten. but that at this time Hanno met with, and slew L. Pomponius, and a great multitude that followed him.

[Page] Hannibal in the mean time had all his care about Tarentum, which if he could take, it would be very commodious for the Landing of the supplies, which he yet expected. Long he waited for an opportunity, and at last by the help of his Friends within it,Tarentum taken by Hannibal. he one night entered at the two Gates that were opened for him, and presently made to the Market [...]place; which the Governour perceiving, fled to the Port, and taking Boat, got into the Citadel that stood at the mouth of the Haven. Hannibal having gotten the spoil of the Roman Soldiers Goods, he addressed himself against the Citadel, which stood upon a Poninsula, and was joyned to the Town by a causway, which was fortified with a Wall and a Ditch. Against this Hannibal raised some works, hoping in a short time to take it, but whilst he was thus busied, there came in a strong supply by Sea to them, which made his attempt hopeless. The Tarentins Fleet lay in the Haven and could not go forth by reason of the Citadel, whereby the Citizens were likely in a short time to suffer want: To help this, Hannibal caused their Ships to be drawn up, and carried through the streets, which were long and plain, and lanched them into the Sea without; which done, they so cut off all supplies, that the Citadel began to suffer want.

Now this while the Roman Forces grew strong, and Q. Fulvius Flaccus, with Appius Claudius, the new Consuls, prepared to besiege the great City of Capua, having now armed twenty three Legions, though to fill them up, they had listed many Boyes, and they made a Law for their encouragement, that their years should go on from that time, as if they had been of lawful age.

Before the Roman Army drew near, the Capuans, through their own wretchlesness, began to feel want of Victuals, they sent therefore to Hannibal, desiring him to succour them before they were closed up, and he sent Hanno with an Army to supply their wants. Hanno appointed them a day to bring store of carriages to convey in the provisions which he should make, but when the day came, they brought only fourty Waggons, with a few pack-Horses. Hanno was much vexed at it, and appointed them another day when they should come better provided:The Carthaginians beaten. But in the mean while Q. Fulvius the Consul, came privately to Beneventum, and having heard that Hanno was gone abroad a Forraging, he marched all night, and by the break a day, assaulted his Camp, which for a long time was gallantly defended, but at last, though with great loss, he won it, in which six thousand were slain, seven thousand taken Prisoners, besides a great Booty that Hanno had lately gotten from the Roman Confederates. This misadventure, and the neer approach of the Roman Consuls, made them of Capua to send a pitiful message to Hannibal, intreating him to hasten to their relief, considering how faithful they had been to him. Hannibal answered them with fair promises, and sent away two thousand Horse to keep their Lands from spoil, whilst himself was intent about taking the Citadel, and some other Towns in those parts.

The Consuls, fortifying Beneventum, Capua besieged by the Consuls. to secure their backs, addressed themselves to the siege of Capua. Many disasters befell the Romans in the beginning of this great enterprise. Gracchus, a brave Souldier, and lately twice Consul, was slain. He was honourably interred by Hannibal, some of whose straglers had slain him, the Manumissed Slaves that served under him, took this opportunity to go every man whither he pleased, so that it was long ere they could be got together again. Yet the Consuls proceed in their work. Mago and the Citizens gave them but bad welcome, sallying out, and slaying fifteen hundred of their men.The Siege raised by Hannibal. Neither was it long ere Hannibal himself came, fought with them, and caused them to dislodge. They removed by night and went several vvays: Fulvius, towards Cannae, and Claudius into Lucania. Hannibal follovved Claudius, but could not reach him. [Page] Yet by the way he met with one Penula, The Romans beaten. a stout man that had the charge of neer sixteen thousand men, with him he fought, and slew him, and almost all his men, scarce a thousand of them escaping. Then was Hannibal informed that Cneus Fulvius, a Roman Praetor, was in Apulia with about eighteen thousand men. Coming to Fulvius, so forward he was, that needs he would have fought with him that night.Another Victory. Hannibal set Mago with three thousand men in an Ambush, then offering Battel to Fulvius, he soon had him in the Trap, whence he was glad to escape himself, leaving all, save two thousand of his men, dead behind him.

These two great blows much astonished the Romans. Yet when they had gathered the remainders of those Armies, the Consuls fell hard again to the Siege of Capua. Capua besieged again. At the first sitting down of the Consuls they proclaimed, that whosoever would come out of Capua by such a day, should be pardoned, and enjoy his estate, if not, no grace was to be expected: the Capuans relying on their own strength, and the assistance of Hannibal rejected this offer with scorn: And before they were wholly closed up, they sent to Hannibal requesting his help: He gave them good words, and dismissed them. But he, thinking that they were well able to hold out for a long time, staid to dispatch his business, before he went, by which means the Consuls had time enough to entrench and secure themselves.

When the Consulship of Claudius and Fulvius was expired, they were continued in their charge of the Army as Proconsuls, and their design was to take Capua by Famine.Hannibal comes to relieve them. But Hannibal came before he was expected by the Romans, and took one of their Forts, and fell upon their Camp; the Capuans also at the same time sallyed out but were beaten in again; Yet did Claudius in pursuing them, receive a wound, that ere long brought him to his Grave. Hannibal followed his business better and had almost taken the Camp, yet at length was repelled.

This extreamly angred Hannibal and made him entertain a haughty resolution, even to set upon Rome, which accordingly he pursued, and because that work must be done with celerity, he caused his men to provide victuals for ten days, and so marched forward. This news coming to Rome, they sent to acquaint their Generals with it, wishing them to do what they judged best for the safety of the City. And thereupon Q. Fulvius took fifteen thousand choise Foot, and a thousand Horse, and with them hasted towards Rome.

As Hannibal drew neer, making woful havock as he went, all the streets and Temples in Rome were filled with women,Hannibal intends for Rome and leaves it. crying, and praying, rubbing the Altars with their hair, the Senators were all in the Great market place, ready to give advice upon all emergencies. But Fulvius and Hannibal arrived at Rome neer together. The Consuls and Fulvius encamped without the Gate of Rome, attending Hannibal, who coming within three miles of the City, advanced with two thousand Horse, and rode along a great way under the Walls, viewing, and considering how he might best approach them. Yet went he back without doing or receiving any hurt. Many tumults were at this time raised in the City, and the multitude were so affrighted, that they would have run out of the Gates if they could have done it with safety.

The day following Hannibal brought up his Army and presented Battel to the Romans, who would have accepted it, had not a terrible shower of Rain caused both the Armies to return into their Camps; and this happened two days together, and the weather cleered up presently after. But Hannibal, who had brought but ten days provision with him, could not stay any longer, he therefore made all the spoil he could in the Roman Territories, passing like a Tempest over the Country, and run towards the Eastern Sea so fast, that he [Page] had almost taken Regium before his arrival was suspected. As for Capua he gave it for lost, and cursed the faction of Hanno, which thus disabled him to relieve that fair City.

Fulvius returned back to the Siege of Capua, which now began to suffer want. And faign they would have sent again to Hannibal but that all ways were intercepted. The truth is, Hannibal had already done his best, and now began to faint under the burden of that War, wherein (as he afterwards protested) he was vanquished by Hanno and his Partizans in the Senate of Carthage, rather than by any force of the Romans. Capua being novv brought to extremity, the multitude forced the Senators to consult about the delivering of it up to the Romans: The bravest of the Senators foresavv what the issue vvould be, and therefore one of them invited the rest home to Supper, telling them that vvhen they had Feasted themselves he vvould begin to them such a health as should for ever free them from the malice of their enemies, the Romans: Tvventy seven of the Senators imbraced the motion,Capu [...] taken. and vvhen they had Supped, drank Poyson, vvhereof they died: The rest, hoping for mercy, yielded to discretion. So a Gate vvas opened whereat a Roman Legion entred, disarmed the Citizens, and made the Carthaginians Prisoners; The Senators vvere laid in Irons; and presently after, Fulvius caused all the Campane Prisoners to be bound to stakes,The Consuls cruelty. and scourged a good vvhile vvith Rods, after which he struck off their heads. The like rigor Fulvius used to all the Towns of the Campanians: most of the Inhabitants, with their Wives and Children he sold for Slaves, the rest were banished; after which the Glory of Hannibal began to shine more dim, and most of Italy by the terrible example of the Capuans, had a General inclination, upon good conditions, to return to the Roman side.

Marcellus and Levinus being chosen Consuls, Levinus went into Sicily, and Marcellus was to make War vvith Hannibal: They vvere busy in raising Soldiers, but wanted mony extreamly; many ways were proposed how to supply that want.The publick wants supplied. At last the Consuls said, that no perswasions would be so effectual with the People, as good examples; wherefore they propounded and it was presently resolved, that every one should bring and put into the Treasury all the mony, Jewels, and Plate that they had, and none reserve more than one Salt, and a Bowle wherewith to make their offerings to the Gods: as also a Ring for himself: and some other small Ornaments for his Wife and Children; and this was accordingly done by all, with much cheerfulness.

Then went forth Marcellus against Hannibal, whose Army was now greatly diminished by long and hard service. His credit also amongst his Italian Friends was much weakned by the loss of Capua: This put him upon pillaging those Towns which he could not keep, thinking that the best way both to enrich himself, and to preserve it from his enemies: but this farther alienated them from him,Salapia yielded to Marcellus. whereupon Salapia yielded to Marcellus, and betrayed to him a gallant Regiment of Numidians, the very best that Hannibal had. After this the Consul took two Cities of the Samnites, wherein he slew above three thousand of Hannibals men; which Hannibal could not prevent, the Romans being grown stronger in the Field than he. But now came news that Massanissa was at Carthage, with five thousand Horse, ready to set sail for Spain, whither, when he came, he was to accompany Asdrubal, the Brother of Hannibal into Italy. This did not more comfort Hannibal and his followers, than it terrified the Romans.

At this time Hannibal was informed that Cn. Fulvius, a Roman Praetor, lay neer to Herdonea, to get the Town by practice: Hannibal made great marches thitherward, and when he came, offered Battel to Fulvius, who readily embraced it.The Romans beaten. The Roman Legions made good resistance a vvhile, till they vvere compassed round vvith the Carthaginian Horse: then fell they to rout, and a [Page] great slaughter was made of them; Fulvius, with twelve Collonels, and about thirteen thousand were slain, and Hannibal set Herdonea on fire because it was appointed to be delivered up to the Romans.

Marcellus hearing this,A Battel. hasted thither: At Venusia they met, and fought a Battel from Morning till the Night parted them, and ended with uncertain Victory. Many more skirmishes they had, but none of importance.

Then Q. Fabius Maximus, and Q. Fulvius were again chosen Consuls: and Fabius resolved to besiege Tarentum, which if he could win, like it was that scarce any one good City would remain true to Hannibal, and in the mean time he desired Fulvius, and Marcellus, with their Army, to press Hannibal so hard that he might have no leisure to help Tarentum. Marcellus was glad of this opportunity, judging that no Roman was so fit to deal with Hannibal as himself: He followed him therefore from place to place, desiring ever to come to Battel, but upon unequal terms. Hannibal only entertained him with skirmishes, meaning to keep his Army intire, till Asdrubal came to him. But Marcellus was so importunate, that he could not be rid of him, wherefore Hannibal bad his men to beat soundly this hotspur Roman Captain of whom he could not be rid till he had let him blood.A Battel. Then followed a Battel wherein Hannibal had the Victory, took six Ensigns and slew about three thousand of the Romans. The Romans beaten. Marcellus rated his men exceedingly, and called them cowards, which did so shame them, that they asked pardon, and desired him to lead them forth again against the enemy. Hannibal was angry to see that nothing would make them quiet, and so they fought again, and though the Romans had the better of it, fighting very desperately, yet they lost so many men that they had little cause to boast of the Victory: Only this advantage they had, that hereby Fabius got time to prosecute his Siege at Tarentum without disturbance. Fulvius the other Consul this vvhile took in diverse Towns of the Hirpines, Lucans, and Volscentes, that vvillingly rendred themselves and betrayed Hannibals Garrisons to him.

Fabius, by the Treason of a Brusian Captain in Tarentum had the Town delivered into his hands,Tarentum taken. and yet vvhen he vvas entered he put all to the Sword, Brutians as vvell as others, vvhereby his credit vvas much impaired. All the Riches of the Town he sought out, vvhich vvas very great, and sent it to the Treasury at Rome vvhere there vvas much need of it. Hannibal having gotten cleer of Marcellus, The Romans beaten. fell upon those that besieged Caulonia, all vvhom he slew or took Prisoners, and then he hasted to relieve Tarentum; But vvhen he came vvithin five miles, he heard that it vvas lost. This grieved him, yet he said no more than this, The Romans have also their Hannibal: We have lost Tarentum in like sort as we got it. But lest he should seem to retreat out of fear, he encamped there four or five days, and thence departing to Metapont, he bethought himself how to take Fabius in a Trap. He caused the chief of Metapont to write to Fabius; offering to betray it into his hand. These letters were sent by two young men of the City, who did thir errand so well, that the Consul wrote back, and appointed the day when they should expect him. Hannibal being glad of this, at leasure made ready his Ambushes for the wary Fabius; but something hindred him from coming, and so all was frustrated.

M. Claudius Marcellus, and T. Quintus Crispinus were chosen Consuls, who had a strong desire to make War upon Hannibal, assuring themselves of Victory. Crispinus had also a desire to make his Consulship Famous by taking some good Town, as Fulvius and Fabius had done by taking of Capua, Loory besieged. and Tarentum: wherefore he went and besieged Locri, the best City in Italy that held for the Carthaginian, bringing all sorts of Engins [Page] to promote the work. But Hannibal was not slow to relieve the City, at whose approach, Crispinus rose and retreated to his fellow Consul. Thither followed Hannibal, to whom the Consuls offered Battel: He refused it, yet dayly entertained them with Skirmishes, waiting for some advantage, and reserved his Army to a time of greater imployment when his Brother Asdrubal should come into Italy. Marcellus was not well pleased with this, and therefore sought to force him to fight; for which end he commanded a Navy by Sea,The Romans beaten. and the Garrison of Tarentum again to besiege Locri: But Hannibal had an eye behind him, and by the way, laid an Ambush for those of Tarentum, slew three thousand of them, and made the rest to fly back into Tarentum. As for the Consuls, Hannibals desire was to wast them by little, and little. Betwixt him and them was a little Hill, overgrown with Bushes, amongst them he hid some Numidians, willing them to attend every advantage. To this Hill the Consuls thought fit to remove their Camp; thither therefore they rode to view the place, taking with them the Son of Marcellus, a few Collonels, and other principal men, and about two hundred Horse. The Numidian Centinel gave warning of their approach, and the other discovered not themselves till they had surrounded the Consuls and their Company. The Consuls defended themselves hoping to be quickly relieved from the Camp that was neer at hand:The Consuls slain. But all their Horse save four, forsook them and fled. Marcellus was slain with a Lance; Crispinus had his deaths wound, and young Marcellus was wounded, yet got to the Camp, the rest were all slain. Hannibal gave an honourable Funeral to Marcellus, bestowing his ashes in a Silver pot, covered with a Crown of Gold, and sent it to his Son to be interred where he pleased.

Then Licinius the Roman Admiral laid hard Siege to Locri, The Romans beaten. wherefore Hannibal went thither again, but as soon as his Vant-couriers appeared, the Romans ran in confused heaps to their Ships, leaving all their Engins, and whatsoever was in their Camp to Hannibal.

C. Claudius Nero, and M. Livius were chosen Consuls, at which time Asdrubal was already come into France, and was approaching towards Italy. Livius would not stir against him, but with a considerable Army, and those of the choisest men: and Claudius with another Army, was sent against Hannibal. By this time news came that Asdrubal was passing the Alps, and that the Ligurians, and those about Genoa were ready to joyn with him. When all was ordered according to the Consuls minds, they went forth of the City, each his several way.Great fear at Rome. The Citizens were full of fears, there being another Son of Amilcar come into Italy, and one that in this expedition seemed to be of more sufficiency than Hannibal. For whereas in that long and dangerous march through so many Barbarous Nations, over great Rivers, and Mountains, Hannibal had lost a great part of his Army, Asdrubal in the same Journey had increased his, descended from the Alps like a rowling Snowball, far greater than when he came over the Pyrenes. This made the People wait upon their Consuls out a Town, like a pensive train of Mourners.

Asdrubal at his first coming into Italy set upon Placentia; Asdrubal comes into Italy. but there he lost a great deal of time, and yet was faign at last to leave it, whereby he gave the Roman Consuls leasure to make ready for him, and caused his Brother Hannibal to make no hast to meet him, knowing that Placentia would not be taken in hast.

Nero made what speed he could to meet with Hannibal, and stop him from joyning with his Brother. He had with him fourty thousand Foot, besides Horse, with which he oft offered Hannibal Battel, and in diverse Skirmishes had the better of him. At Grumentum Hannibal fought with him, but was worsted, yet gat he off and marched away to Venusia, vvith Nero still at his heels. Thence he vvent to Canusium, and sat dovvn there near the place [Page] where he had obtained his most memorable Victory. There also Nero sat down by him, thinking it enough to hinder him from joyning with his succours. There was he advertised of Asdrubals approach by Letters that were going to Hannibal which he intercepted: wherefore he resolved that it was better to run some desperate adventure than to suffer them to joyn together. He therefore took six thousand Foot and a thousand Horse, all of his choisest men, and away he posted as fast as he could to assist his Fellow Consul. Livy at that time lay encamped neer to Serea Gallica, and Asdrubal within half a Mile of him. In six days Nero finished his journy thither, and by the way his company was encreased by some voluntaries. The next day after his coming, they consulted together, and resolved to fight the Enemy, Asdrubal perceiving that both the Consuls were now together, and thereupon feared that Hannibal was slain, and though before he was forward to fight, yet now he thought it no shame to retreat farther from them. So he dislodged secretly by Night, intending to get over the River Metaurus: but being misled by his Guides, he had not gone far before Nero was at his heels with all the Horse, which hindred him from going any farther, and the other Consuls followed with the Legions in order of Battel. Asdrubal, seeing a necessity to fight, omitted no care, or circumspection. His Gauls he placed in the left Wing upon a Hill, which the Enemy could not ascend without much difficulty. In the right Wing he stood himself, with his Africans and Spaniards: His Lygurians he placed in the midst,A Battel. and his Elephants in the Front of the Battel. On the Romans side Nero had the right Wing, Livius the left, and Portius led the Battel, Livy and Portius found strong opposition, and with great slaughter on both sides, prevailed little of nothing. Nero laboured much in vain against the steep Hill, where the Gauls stood out of his reach: wherefore taking part of his Forces, he led them round behind Livy and Portius, and charged Asdrubal in the Flank, which made the Victory incline to the Romans: For Nero ran all along the depth of Asdrubals Battel, and put it to rout. Of the Spaniards and Africans the greatest part were slain: the Ligurians and Gauls saved themselves by flight: Of the Elephants only four were taken alive: the rest were slain, most by their Riders, the Guide having in readiness a mallet and a chissel wherewith he gave a stroak between the Ears in the joynt next the Head, wherewith he killed the Beast upon a sudden.

Asdrubal strove with great Patience and against many difficulties, and performed all the duties of a worthy General, and stout Souldier, and when he saw the loss irreparable, he rode manfully into the thickest of the Enemies, where fighting bravely,Asdrubal slain. he was slain. The number of the slain on both sides is variously reported, the Camp and all the Riches in it fell into the hands of the Romans.

When it was known at Rome how Nero had left his Army, they were much amazed and full of fears: The People filled the Market place, the Women ran to the Temple with Vows and Prayers, and all were filled with melancholly: therefore the news of this Victory was intertained with exceeding joy, as if Hannibal were already driven out of Italy. Nero returning to his Camp, threw the Head of Asdrubal before the Carthaginians and brought forth his African Prisoners bound, sending two of them to give Hannibal notice what had happened.

Hannibal having in this unhappy fight, lost, besides his worthy Brother, all hope that had so long sustained him in Italy, Hannibal retires into Brusia. withdrew himself into the Country of the Brusians, and thither he caused all the Lucans, his Friends, to remove, as likewise all that dwelt in Metapontum. For he wanted men to defend so many places as he held, lying so far asunder. Wherefore he drew them all into a lesser compass in the utmost cornet of Italy; it being a Country of [Page] much fastness, and the People exceedingly devoted unto his Service. This was in the thirteenth year after his coming into Italy; and from thence to the eighteenth year wherein he departed, there was no memorable thing done. For Hannibal wanted strength wherewith to make any great attempt, the Romans had little mind to provoke him, but thought it well that he was quiet. This commendation is given him by the Roman Historians themselves. That making War upon a People, of all others the most Warlike, he obtained so many Victories by his own good conduct: And that leading an Army compounded of so many sundry Nations Africans, Spaniards, Gauls, Carthaginians, Italians, and Greeks, which were neither in Language, Laws,His Prudence. Conditions, or any other thing, one like to another, yet he held them all in such good order, that they never fell to sedition amongst themselves, or against their General. And here we must leave him till he be drawn into Africk by Scipio.

P. Cornelius Scipio having conquered Spain, Scipio comes from Spain. returned home to Rome, where he made suit for the Honour of a Triumph, which was denied him, because he only had the place of a Proconsul:Is chosen Consul. Yet to make him amends, they chose him Consul, together with P. Licinius Crassus, who being high Priest also, might not go ar from the City, as being to attend the matters of their Superstition: which made well for Scipio, who was desirous to be sent into Africk, to trasfer the War thither. Some there were of the Senators, especially Q. Fabius Maximus, that opposed him therein: yet at length he obtained to have the Isle of Sicily for his Province, with leave to pass into Africk if he found it expedient.

The Treasury at Rome being extremely exhausted, no mony was given to Scipio, neither was he allowed to press Souldiers for his African Voyage: But the People made up the backwardness of the Senate with their forwardness: For besides his Roman Souldiers, he had about seven thousand Voluntaries that came to him from sundry parts of Italy. Several Towns also furnished him, with Corn, Iron, Handmills, and all other necessaries, so that having his Navy in readiness,He goes into Sicily. he transported his Army into Sicily, where he found, besides other Forces, two gallant Legions of old Souldiers that had served at Cannae. For encreasing his number of Horse, he pressed three hundred young and rich Gentlemen of Sicily, and then discharged them again, upon condition that they should deliver their Horse and Arms to as many Roman Gentlemen whom he had brought along with him for the same purpose.

Then did Scipio imploy Laelius into Africk, Sends into Africk. rather to make discover than to do any thing, who yet took a great Booty, and struck no little terrour into the Carthaginians, who saw their affairs now to be upon the terms of change. He also procured King Massanissa to revolt from the Carthaginians and to joyn with the Romans. And goes himself. Then did Scipio embark his Army for Africk, where he landed neer the Faire Promontory, and presently after encamped before Utica.

The Carthaginians at this time had no Captain of note in their City, nor a better Army than of raw Souldiers that were levied in hast. Asdrubal the Son of Gesco, that was lately chased out of Spain by Scipio, was their best Man of War. But before he was ready to take the Field, Scipio had beaten the Troop of Carthaginian Horse that were sent to impead his landing, and slain Hanno their Captain; he had also sacked one of their Towns, and taken eight thousand Prisoners, and sent them into Sicily. He took also Salva which he fortified.Utica besieged. Then passed he to Utica and besieged it forty days with all sorts of Engines, but prevailed not. By this time Asdrubal had gotten thirty thousand Foot, and three thousand Horse, but all raw Souldiers, and King Syphax brought to their help fifty thousand [Page] Foot and ten thousand Horse, with which they marched bravely towards Scipio, who thereupon lest the Siege, and encamped upon the Shore in a place of advantage which he strongly fortified, and Winter drawing on, Massanissa, brought in great store of Corn, Cattel, and other Provisions to him. Asdrubal and Syphax encamped neer unto him: their Souldiers covered their Huts with Mats and Reeds, and dry Boughs, and being held in hand about a treaty of Peace, they grew remiss, and careless in keeping their Guard, which Scipio being informed of, took his opportunity in the Night to set their Camps on fire,The Carthaginians beaten. and in the confusion slew, and took Prisoners most of them.

Yet did the Carthaginians make shift to raise another Army of neer thirty thousand, reckoning in Syphax, and his men, and four thousand Spaniards, And a second time. Mercenaries, that were lately come to them: Scipio went to meet them, and another Battel was fought, and the Victory easily obtained by Scipio against those raw and untrained men. Thus Scipio became Master of the Field, and took in divers Cities, and sent Massanissa and Laelius after Syphax into his Kingdom, whom they beat again, took him Prisoner, and partly by fair means, and partly by soul, became Masters of most of his Kingdom, which Scipio bestowed upon Massanissa. And this was the first time that the Romans took upon them to make Kings.

The Carthaginians were extremely dismayed, when they heard this news, and for the calamity which had befaln their good Friend Syphax, and when they understood that Massanissa, their immortal Enemy, had gotten possession of his Kingdom.They sue for Peace. This made them send forth Ambassadours to Scipio to make suit for Peace. When these came into Scipios presence, they basely prostrated themselves on the ground, and kissed his Feet, and made as unworthy a Speech, beseeching him to pass by their offences, and to grant them Peace.

Scipio knew well in what a poor case Rome then was, and how unable to defray the charge of the War if it should be continued, and therefore he was willing to grant them Peace upon these conditions: That they should render up all the Prisoners, and all their Renigadoes, and Slaves; That they should withdraw their Armies out of Italy and Gaul: That they should not meddle with Spain, nor with any Islands betwixt Italy and Africk: That they should deliver up all their Ships of War, save twenty: That they should pay him a great sum of Money, with some hundred thousand Bushels of Wheat and Barley: All these they assented to, whereupon he granted them a Truce that they might send their Ambassadors to the Senate of Rome. They dealt deceltfully▪ But the truth was, they desired only to get time till Hannibal might come back, in whom they reposed all their confidence: And therefore they took occasion to pick new Quarrels with the Romans, which they were the rather encouraged to, hearing news that Hannibal was already landed in Africk, by whose means they hoped either to drive the Romans out of Africk, or to procure better tearms of Peace.

Hannibal departed out of Italy no less passionate then men are wont to be,Hannibal leaves Italy. when they leave their own Countries to go into Exile: He looked back to the shore, accusing both Gods and Men, and cursing his own dulness in that he had not led his Army from Cannae, hot and bloodied as it was, to the Walls of Rome.

Arriving in Africk he disembarked his Army at Leptis, Comes into Africk, almost one hundred Miles from Carthage. He was ill provided of Horse, which he could not easily transport out of Italy. From thence he passed through the inland Country, gathering Friends by the way. Tychaeus, a Numidian Prince [Page] that had the best Horses, he allured to joyn with him: and one Mazetallus, another Prince brought him a thousand Horse. The Carthaginians in the mean time neglected to make those preparations that would have secured the Victory, and yet they sent to Hannibal, requiring him without delay to do what he could. Hannibal answered, that they were his Lords, and therefore might dispose of him and his Army, but since he was General of their Forces, he desired that he might have leave to make choise of his own time. Yet to please them, he made long marches to Zama, and there encamped.

From Zama he sent forth his Scouts to learn where the Romans lay, and what they were doing. Some of these were taken and brought to Scipio, who shewed them all his Camp and so dismissed them. Hannibal admired at his Generosity, and had a very great desire of an interview that he might talk with him: and this he signified by a Messenger. Scipio imbraced the motion and sent him word when and where he might meet with him. Accordingly the two Generals rode forth,An interview of the Generals. with each of them a Troop of Horse till they met, and then their men were bid to stand off: Each of them had his Enterpreter, and when they met they stood silent for a while, viewing one the other with mutual admiration. Then began Hannibal to salute the Roman to this effect.Hannibals Speech to That it had been better for Carthage and Rome, if they could have contained their ambition within the shoars of Africk and Italy: for that the Countries of Sicily and Spain, were no suffic [...]ent recompence for so many Fleets as had been lost, and so much blood as had been shed, in making those costly purchases: But since what was past could not be recalled, he said, That it was time for them at the length to put an end to those contentions, and to Pray the Gods to endue them with more Wisdom for hereafter. To which peaceable disposition his own years, and long tryal of Fortune, both good and bad, made him inclinable: But he feared that Scipio, for want of such experiences, would rather fix his mind upon uncertain hopes, than upon the contemplation of that mutability, whereunto all humane affairs are subject: Yet (said he) my own example may peradventure teach thee moderation. For I am that same Hannibal that after my Victory at Cannae, wan the greatest part of Italy, and devised what I should do with your City of Rome which I hoped verily to have taken. Once I brought my Army to your Walls, as thou hast since brought thine to ours of Carthage: But see the change, I now stand here intreating thee for Peace. This may teach thee Fortunes instability. I fought with thy Father Scipio. He was the first Roman General I met with in the Field: I did then little think that the time would come when I should have such business with his Son: and thou maist have experience of the like in thy self, who knows how soon? what saist thou? Canst thou be content that we leave to you Spain, and all the Islands between Italy and Africk? By effecting this thou shalt have Glory enough, and the Romans may well be glad of such a bargain: and we will be faithful in observing the Peace with you. If thou refusest this, consider what an hazzard thou must run to get a little more? If thou stayest but till tomorrow Night, thou must take such Fortune as the Gods shall allot. The issue of Battels is uncertain, and oft beguiles expectation. Let us therefore without more ado make Peace. Say not that some false-hearted Citizens of ours, dealt fraudulently of late in the like Treaty. Its I Hannibal that now desire Peace, which I would never do but that I think it expedient for our Country: and judging it expedient I will always maintain it.

To this Scipio answered,Scipio replies▪ That he was not ignorant of the mutability of Fortune: That without any note of insolence he might well refuse the conditions offered: But (said he) if thy Citizens can be contented, besides what I proposed and they formerly assented to, to make such reparation for these late injuries as I shall require, then I will further advise what answer to give you, otherwise prepare for War, and expect the issue.

[Page] Hereupon they brake off, and each returned to his own Camp, bidding ther Souldiers to prepare for Battel,They prepare to fight. wherein should be decided the quarrel between Rome and Carthage. The next Morning at broak of Day they issued into the Field, each of them ordering their Men as they judged most convenient After which Scipio rode up and down his Army, bidding them remember what they had atchieved since they came into Africk. He told them, that if they wan the Day, the War was at an end, and this Victory would make them Lords of all the World, for after this, none should be able to resist them: But if they were beaten, there was no possibility of escaping; they must either conquer or die, or be miserable Slaves under most merciless enemies.

Hannibal was far the weaker in Horse and a great part of his Army were raw Souldiers, yet his Lords of Carthage would brook no delay. He encouraged therefore his men as was most furtable to their qualities. To the Mercenaries he promised bountiful rewards. The Carthaginians he threatned with inevitable servitude if they lost the day: but especially he animated his old fellow Souldiers by the many Victories which they had gotten over those that far exceeded them in number. He bad them look on their Enemies and see whether they were not by far fewer than that huge Army they had [...]laughtered at Cannae. He bad them remember that it was the Father of this Scipio whom they had made to run away, &c. Wherefore he intreated them, upon whose virtue he meant wholly to repose himself, that they would strive that day to make good their honour, and to purchase the fame of Men Invincible.

When the Armies drew neer, the Numidian Horse-men on both sides began to Skirmish:A Battel. the Trumpets, and other Instruments sounded to Battel. Hannibals Elephants (which were always an uncertain kind of help) were to break upon the Romans: But some of them ran back upon their own Horse, which they so disordered, that Massanissa, taking the advantage, before they could re-ally, charged them, and drave them quite out of the Field. The rest of these Beasts, made a great spoil amongst the Roman Velites, but being wounded, they ran back upon the right point of their own Battel, and disordered the Carthaginian Horse that were in the Wing; vvhich gave such advantage to the Roman Horse, that charging them vvhen they vvere in disorder, they drave them away likewise. Then did the Battels of Foot advance, and ran one at the other, and the Mercenaries at the first seemed to have the better of the Romans: But at length the Roman Discipline prevailed against boisterous strength. And whereas the Romans, were seconded by their Friends, these Mercenaries received no help from those that should have seconded them. For the new raised Africans, when they saw the Mercenaries give back, they retired also, which made the hired Souldiers think themselves, betrayed, whereupon they declined the fight. The Carthaginian Battel was herewith more terrified than before, so that refusing to give way to the Mercenaries they fell out amongst themselves, and forbore to make head against their Enemies. Thus were many of them beaten down and slain through their own indiscretion: And this gave the Romans such advantage that they made a great slaughter both of the Carthaginians and Mercenaries, who could neither sight nor easily flie. Such as could, ran towards Hannibal, who kept his ground and would not stir to help these run-aways.

Then did Scipio advance against Hannibal who intertained him after another manner than ever he had been received in his Life before. All the former days work, seemed but a Pastime in comparison of this. The Romans were encouraged because they had prevailed all the day before; they were also far more in number: But Hannibals old Blades were fresh and [Page] the better men. They fought with such obstinate resolution that no man gave back one Foot, but rather chose to die than to lose their ground, so that for a long time the Victory was uncertain: But the return of Massanissa and Laeli is with the Horse from the pursute of the Enemies, was to the Romans most happy and in a needful time. These upon a suddain, charging Hannibal upon the Reer,Hannibal beaten. overbore them with meer violence and put them to rout.

Hannibal with a few Horse saved himself by flight,He flies to Carthage, and perswades them to seek Peace. and staid not till he came to Carthage; where, coming into the Senate, he told them plainly, that there was no other way left but to make such a Peace as could be procured. Amongst other things it was agreed, that the Carthaginians should pay to the Romans two hundred Talents a year for fifty years together. Which mony, when it came to be collected, there was pitious lamentation amonst the People, the Roman Yoak beginning to pinch them already, that some of the Senators could not forbear Weeping; but Hannibal could not refrain from Laughter: For which Asdrubal Haedus (one of Hanno's faction) checked him, saying, that it ill becommed him to laugh, since he had been the cause why all others did Weep. He answered, that Laughter did not always proceed from Joy, but sometimes from indignation. Yet (said he) My Laughter is more seasonable, and less obsurd, than your Tears. For you should have wept when you gave up your Ships and Elephants, and when you bound up your hands from use of Arms without the good leave of the Romans. This miserable condition keeps us under, and holds us in assured servitude. But of these things you had no feeling: Now when a little mony is wrung from you, you are very sensible of that. God grant that the time come not, wherein you shall acknowledg, that it was the least part of your misery for which you have shed these Teares.

Afterwards Hannibal in the Civil administration of the City,His Civil imployment. gave an overthrow or two, to the Judges which at that time bore all the sway in Carthage, having all the lives, goods, and fame of the rest in their power. Shortly after Hannibal was chosen Praetor, by virtue of which Office, he was superiour to them for that year. He sent upon an occasion for one of the Treasurers to come to him, but he proudly refused, whereupon Hannibal sent a Pursevant for him, and brought him in Judgment before the People, accusing not only him, but the rest of the Judges for their insolency, and unbridled Power, withall, propounding a Law that the Judges should be chosen from Year to Year. He found also that they had robbed the Treasury, which caused the Taxes to be laid upon the common People, whereof he made such plain demonstration, that they were compelled to restore with shame what they had gotten by Knavery. This so irritated his Enemies, who were of the Roman Faction,He is complained of to the Romans. that they complained to the Roman Senate that the Barchine Faction grew strong again, and that Hannibal would shortly be in Arms: For he was like a Wild Beast that could never be tamed: that he held secret intelligence with King Antiochus, who was an enemy to the Romans, &c.

Hereupon the Senate sent three Ambassadors to Carthage to demand Hannibal, but he kept such good espial upon the Romans that he was informed of their intentions, against which he was never unprepared: And therefore when Night was come, he stole out of the City, accompanied with two Friends whom he could trust, and having Horses in a readiness, he rode all Night, and came to a Tower of his own by the Sea side, and having provided a Ship in a readiness,He flies from Carthage to Tyre. he bad Africk, farewel, lamenting the misfortune of his Country more than his own, and shaped his course to Tyre which was the Mother City of Carthage: There he was intertained Royally, [Page] in whose worth and honour the Tyrians thought themselves to have interest because of the affinity between the Cities,He goes to Antiochus. Thence went he to Antiochus, who was exceeding glad of his coming, intending War against the Romans.

To him Hannibal gave excellent advice how he might carry on his War against the Romans, His counsel neglected. vvith best advantage; but Antiochus hearkned more to his Courtiers than to him, and so was shamefully beaten by the Romans: at vvhich time he admired Hannibal as a Wise Man, yea as a Prophet, who long before had foreseen, and foretold him vvhat novv vvas come to pass, and vvhen it vvas too late, wished that he had followed his Counsel. To be brief, Antiochus vvas forced by the Romans to sue for Peace, which at last the Romans yielded to: Provided amongst other things, that Hannibal might be delivered into their hands. Hannibal getting an incling of this, fled to Gortina in Creet, vvhere he lived a long time very quietly, but at length he fell into the envy of many by reason of his great wealth, vvhereupon he filled certain great Chests vvith Lead, and deposited them in the Temple of Diana there, as if he kept the Treasure for a dead lift: and thereupon the People, having such a Pledg as that of him, looked less after him:He flies to Prusias. But he in the mean time stole avvay to Prusias, King of Bythinia, having first molten his Gold, and povvered it into some hollovv Statues of Brass, vvhich he carried avvay vvith him.

Shortly after there fell a War betvveen Prusias, and Eumenes, King of Pergamus, Prusias being encouraged to break his League and to make War upon him, by his considence in Hannibal, whom he had their to manage his War for him. The War therefore grew hot betwixt them, both by Land and Sea. But Eumenes, by the assistance of the Romans, overpowred Prusias in both: And whereas Prusias was but weak of himself, Hannibal procured him the assistance of some other Kings and States, and those of very Warlike Nations: and amongst them the aid of Philip, King of Macedonia, who sent him Philocles his General, with a very considerable Army to help him.

When Prusias had received an overthrow from Eumenes by Land, he sought to try his Fortune by Sea, wherein yet he was too weak for him: wherefore Hannibal advised him to try whether he could not do that by Policy, which by plain force he was not able to effect. He put therefore a multitude of all sorts of Serpents into Earthen Pitchers, to be hurled aboard the Enemies Ships when they were in sight: giving order to the Souldiers and Sea-men to set all upon the Ship wherein Eumenes himself was, and to defend themselves from the rest as vvell as they could: and that he might the more certainly know in vvhich Ship Eumenes was, he sent an Herauld beforehand with a Letter, containing nothing but a meer flout to Eumenes, and full of abuses to his Person. Whenas therefore Prus [...]is his men came to it, they fought neither against great nor small, but only against the Ship wherein Eumenes was, whereupon he was faign to seek his safety by flight; yet had he perished had he not trust in upon the next shore, where he had placed, for a relief upon all occasions, a company of his men.

As for Eumenes his other Ships, when they pressed hard upon the Enemy, they let flie amongst them their Earthern Pitchers full of Snakes, which at first Se [...]med to them a ridiculous thing: but when the Pitchers, falling upon the Deeks, brake in pieces, out flew the Snakes, so that they could stir no where in the Ships by reason of the Serpents, whereby they found themselves no less annoied by their stings, than with the Arrows of their Enemies, which caused them to give over fighting, and to flie to their Camp which was upon the Shoar.

[Page] Thus Hannibal by this trick, got the better of Eumenes in that fight. Nor then only, but also in sundry other encounters; and by one Stratagem or other, he ever put Eumenes to the worst. And once when he advised Prusias to fight, and he durst not, because the entrails of the Beast (said he) forbid me. What (said Hannibal) will you rely more upon a little piece of flesh in a Calf, than upon the Judgment of an old experienced Captain in the Field?

Now as soon as news of these things came to the Senate at Rome, they sent T. Quintius Flaminius Ambassador to Prusias, not so much to withdraw him from prosecuting the War against Eumenes, as to intreat him to deliver to them Hannibal, the most spiteful Enemy they had in all the World.

Prusias, Who betrays him. to gratifie the Romans resolved either to kill Hannibal, or to deliver him alive into the hands of Flaminius, for which end he sent a Troop of Souldiers to inviron the lodging where Hannibal lay. But Hannibal having before found cause to suspect the faith of Prusias, had made some secret sallies under ground to save himself from any Treasonable, or sudden assault. But finding now that all passages were shut up against him, he had recourse to his last remedy, which he was constrained to put in practice as well to frustrate his Enemies from their Triumphing over him, as to save himself from their torture and merciless hands, who, as he well knew, would neither respect his famous enterprises, his Honour, nor his Age. When therefore he saw no other way of escaping he took the Poyson, which he always had in readiness for such an exigent, and being ready to swallow it down, he uttered these Words.His last Speech. I will now (said he) deliver the Romans from that fear which hath so long possessed them: that fear which makes them impatient of attending the Death of an Old Man. This Victory of Flaminius over me, which am disarmed, and betrayed into his hands, shall never be numbred in the rest of his Heroical deeds. No: it shall make it manifest to all the Nations of the World, how far the Antient Roman Virtue is degenerated, and corrupted. For such was the Nobleness of their Fore-fathers, as when King Pyrrhus invaded them in Italy, and was ready to give them Battel at their own Doors, they gave him intelligence of the Treason intended against him by Poyson: whenas these of a latter race, have imployed Flaminius, a Man who heretofore had been one of their Consuls, to practice with Prusias, contrary to the honour of a King, contrary to his Faith given for my safety, and contrary to the Laws of Hospitality, to slay, or deliver up his own Guest. He Poysons himself. Then drank he off that Poyson, and died.

P. Scipio Africanus in a discourse which he had with Hannibal, asked him, which of all the famous Captains that ever lived, he judged most Worthy? Hannibal gave to Alexander the Great, the first place: to Pyrrhus the second: and the third he challenged to himself. But Scipio, who thought his own Title better, than that it ought to be forgotten, asked yet further, What then wouldest thou have said, Hannibal, if thou hadst vanquished me? The Carthaginian replied, Then would I not have given the first place to Alexander, but have claimed it as due unto my self.

When the conditions of Peace granted by the Romdns to the Carthaginians were reported to the Citizens, they were very unpleasing, whereupon one Gesco, stood up to speak against them, perswading the People not to yield to such intollerable demands: But Hannibal observing what favourable audience was given to this vain Orator, by the unquiet, yet unwarlike Multitude, he was bold to pull [Page] him down from his standing by plain force: Hereat all the People murmured, as if their common liberty were too much wronged by such insolence of this presumptuous Captain: Which Hannibal perceiving, rose up and spake unto them, saying; That they ought to pardon him if he had done otherwise than the customs of the City would allow, for a [...] much as he had been thence absent ever since he was a Boy of nine years old, until he was now a Man of five and forty. Having thus excused himself, he exhorted them to embrace the Peace, as wanting ability to defend themselves, had the demands of the Enemy been y [...] more rigorous.

His Father Amilcar, at what time he did Sacrifice, being ready to take his journey into Spain, called his Son Hannibal, being than but nine years old, caused him to lay his hand upon the Altar, and to swear, that being come to mans estate, he should pursue the Romans with immortal hatred, and that he should work them all the mischief that possible he could.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF POMPEY THE GREAT.

[Page]

STrabo, His Parentage. the Father of Pompey was much hated by the People of Rome, who feared his greatness obtained by Arms (for he was a Noble Captain) and to shew their distast, when he was slain by a Thunderbolt, as his Body was carrying to burial, the People seized upon it, and did great despite unto it: But on the contrary, never any other Roman; besides Pompey, had the love of the People so soon, nor that continued constanter, both in prosperity, and adversity, than it did to him: And that which procured their love,His towardliness. and good liking, was his temperance in life, aptness to Arms, Eloquence of Speech, Faithfulness of his Word, and Courtesie in his Behaviour. He gave without disdain, and received with great Honour: Being but a Child, he had a certain grace in his look, that wan Mens good wills before he spake. His countenance was amiable mixed with gravity; and when he come to Mans estate, there appeared in his gesture, and behaviour, a grave, and Princely Majesty. His hair stood a little upright, and the sweet cast, and motion of his eyes made him very graceful. He was sober, and temperate in his Diet, contenting himself with common Meats; and when once in his sickness, his Physicians advised him to eat a Thrush, and none could be gotten, a Friend told him, that Lucullus (a certain great man) kept them all the year, where he should be sure not to fail; he replied, What then? His abstinence. If Lucullus were not, should not Pompey live? and therewithall, letting his Physicians counsel alone, he bad them dress him such meat as was easie to be had.

[Page] Pompey being a young man, and in the Field with his Father, who was in Arms against Cinna, there lay with him in his Tent a Companion of his, called Lucius Terentius, who being corrupted with money, promised Cinna to slay Pompey, and other of his Confederates had promised to set their Generals Tent on fire. This conspiracy was discovered to Pompey as he sat at Supper, which nothing amazed him, but he drank freely, and was merrier with Terentius than ordinary:His courage and prudence. But when it was bed-time, he stole out of his own Tent, and went into his Fathers. In the Night Terentius went into Pompey's Tent, and with his Sword gave many a thrust into the Matteress: Presently also the whole Camp was in an uprore, and the Souldiers, out of hatred to their General, would needs in all hast have gone, and submitted to the Enemy: and Strabo durst not go out of his Tent to speak to them, but Pompey ran amongst these Mutineers, and with Tears in his Eyes besought them not to betray their General: He went also and threw himself flat on the Ground athwart the Gate of the Camp, and told them that they should march over him if they had such a desire to be gone: whereupon, the Souldiers being ashamed of their treachery, returned to their Lodgings.

Presently after his Fathers death,He is accuised Pompey being his heir, he was accused for robbing the common Treasury, and in particular for taking certain toils, and cords of Hunters nets: He confessed the having of them, and that his Father gave him them when the City of Asculum was taken; but that he had since lost them, when Cinna came to Rome with his Army, at which time the unruly Souldiers, breaking into his House, plundered him of all that he had. This matter had many days of hearing before it was determined, in which time Pompey shewed so much courage, and prudence in managing of it, that he wan such credit, and favour by it, that Antistius, vvho at that time was Praetor, and Judg of the cause, fell into such a likeing of him, that secretly he offered him his Daughter in Marriage, and Pompey liked so well of the Match, that the Parties were privately made sure each to other: And not long after, through the care, and pains of Antistius, And cleered. when the Judges came to pass Sentence, Pompey was cleered.

This business being over,His marriage. Pompey married Antistia: after which going into Cinna's Camp, he was wrongfully accused of some misdemeanours; whereupon, being afraid of the Tyrant, he secretly stole away; and when he could not be found in Cinna's Camp, there went a rumour abroad that Cinna had murthered him, which so irritated some, vvho of a long time had hated Cinna, that upon this occasion, they rose up against him: But he thinking to save himself by flight, was pursued by a Captain with a drawn Sword; Cinna seeing him, fell down on his knees to him, and profered him his Signet Ring, vvhich vvas of great price, to spare his life: Tush (said the Captain) I come not to seal any Covenant, but to be revenged upon a Villain, and cruel Tyrant, Cinna slain. and vvithall ran him through and slevv him.

Cinna being thus dispatched,Carbo succeeds. Carbo took upon him the Govenment, a more cruel Tyrant than the former: And after him, Sylla succeeded; and at this time the Romans, being grievously oppressed by one Tyrant after another, thought themselves happy in the change of Governours. For their City vvas brought into such misery, as hoping no more to see Rome recover her lost liberty, they desired yet a more tollerable bondage.

In Sylla's time,And Sylla. Pompey vvas at a place in Italy called Picenum, in the Marches of Anconae, vvhere he had certain Lands, but much more the love and favour of the Citizens for his Fathers sake. He seeing that the most Noble Men of Rome forsook their Houses, and estates to repair to the Camp of Sylla, [Page] as unto a place of safety, he also resolved to go thither, yet not in a base manner, like a Fugitive, but purposed to raise an Army, and to go in an Honourable manner as one that could do Sylla good service. So he made tryal of the good will of the Picentines, who readily joyned with him, and whereas there was amongst them one Vindius, who opposed Pompey, saying, That a Boy that came from School but the other day, must now in hast be a Captain, the rest of the Citizens were so incensed against him, that they ran upon him and slew him.

Thus Pompey being but twenty three years old, not tarrying for Commission from any man, took upon himself Authority, and causing a Tribunal to be set up in the midst of the Market place of Auximum, a great, and populous City, he commanded the two Brethren, called the Ventidians (the chiefest men of the City, but his Enemies) presently to avoid the City: Then began he to leavy men to constitute Captains, Lieutenants, Sergeants, and such other Officers as appertain to an Army. And from thence he went to the other neighbouring Cities, where he did the like, so that in a short space he had gotten three compleat Legions together,Pompey raised an Army. as also Ammunition, Carts, and all other necessaries for them.

In this sort did Pompey advance towards Sylla; He goes towards Sylla. not in hast, as a man that was afraid to be met with by the way, but by small Journeys, lodging still where he might have the best advantage against an Enemy, causing the Cities wheresoever he came to declare against Carbo, and for Sylla. Yet three Captains who adhered to Carbo, Carinna, Caelius, and Brutus, did in three several places compass him in on every side, thinking to have destroyed him. Pompey was nothing amazed hereat,His danger by the way. but marshalling his Army, he first set upon Brutus, having placed his Horsemen (amongst whom himself was in Person) before the Battel of his Footmen, and when the Men at Arms of his Enemy (who were Gauls) came to charge upon him, he singled out the chiefest amongst them, and ran him through with his Spear, and slew him.His Victories. The other Gauls seeing their Champion slain, turned their backs, and in their flight, over ran their own Footmen; so that at last they all fled for their lives.

Then the Cities round about, being terrified with this overthrow, came in and yielded themselves to Pompey: Afterwards Scipio also the Consul, coming against Pompey to fight him, when the Battels were ready to joyn, before they threw their Darts, Scipio's Souldiers saluted Pompey, and went over to his side, whereupon Scipio was faign to fly. And lastly Carbo himself sending divers Troops of Horse against him by the Riuer Arsis, Pompey charged them so furiously, and drave them into such a place of disadvantage, that being neither able to fight nor fly, they delivered up themselves with their Horses, Arms, and all to his mercy.

Sylla all this while heard nothing of these overthrows which Pompey had given to his Enemies, but understanding his danger, being environed with so many Arms, fearing lest he should miscarry, he made hast, and marched to his relief.

Pompey being informed of Sylla's approach, commanded his Captains to Arm themselves and to set their Army in good array, that their General Sylla might see how bravely they were appointed. For he expected that Sylla would do him great honour, as indeed he did, even beyond his expectation: For when Sylla saw him afar off,He meets Sylla. coming towards him, and his Army marshelled in such good order of Battel, and his men so bravely advancing themselves, being elated with their late Victories, he allighted from his Horse; and when Pompey came to do his duty to him, and called him Emperour, or Soveraign Prince, Sylla resaluted him with the same Title, which made all that were present to wonder that he would give so honourable a name [Page] to so young a man as Pompey was,Sylla honours him. who as yet was not made a Senator: Considering also that Sylla himself did now contend for that Title, and Dignity with Marius, and Scipio. The intertainment also that Sylla gave him afterwards, was every way answerable to the first kindness that he shewed him. For when Pompey at any time came to him, he would rise up, and put off his Cap to him, which he did not to any other Noble Man that was about him: Yet was not Pompey puffed up with all this, nor the prouder for it.

Shortly after Sylla would have sent Pompey into Gaul (now France) because that Metellus, the Roman General there, was thought to have done no exploit worthy of so great an Army as he had with him: But Pompey answered, that there was no reason to displace an ancient Captain that was of greater fame,His Modesty. and experience then himself, Yet (said he) if Metellus himself be contented, and will desire it of me, I will willingingly go, and help him to end this War. Metellus being informed hereof, wrote for him to come.

P [...]mpey then entering Gaul, did of himself wonderful exploits, and so revived the courage,His acts in Gaul. and valour of old Metellus, that the War prospered exceedingly in their Hands: But these were but Pompey's first beginnings, and were wholly obscured by the luster of those many Wars, and great Battels which he fought afterwards.

When Sylla had overcome all Italy, and was proclaimed Dictator, he rewarded all the great Captains, and Lieutenants that had taken his part, and advanced them to honourable places, and Dignities in the Commonwealth, freely granting whatsoever they requested of him; But for Pompey, highly esteeming him for his Valour, and thinking that he would be a great support to him in all his Wars, he sought by some means to ally him to himself, Metella, his Wife being also of the same opinion, they both perswaded him to put away his Wife Antistia, His second marriage. and to marry Aemilia, who was Daughter to Metella by a former Husband, though she was married to another, and now with child by him.Tyrannical proceedings. These marriages were wicked, and Tyrannical, fitter for Sylla's time, than agreeable to Pompey's nature, and condition. And truly it was a shameful thing for Pompey to forsake his Wife Antistia, who for his sake, a little before had lost her Father, that was murthered in the very Senate House upon suspition that he took part with Sylla for his Son Pompey's sake: and to take Aemilia from her lawful Husband, by whom she was great vvith child, and to vvhom she had been married not long before: vvhich also caused the Mother of Antistia to lay violent hands upon her self, seeing her Daughter to receive such open and notorious wrong. But God who hates such injustice, and cruelty, followed Pompey vvith this Judgment, that his Wife Aemilia died miserably presently after in childbirth in his House.

About this time news was brought to Sylla, that Perpenna was gotten into Sicily, and had brought all that Island into subjection to him, where he might safely intertain all Sylla's Enemies: That Carbo also kept the Seas thereabouts with a certain number of Ships: That Domitius was gone into Africk, to whom resorted many other Noblemen who were escaped from the proscriptions and outlaries of Sylla.

Against all these was Pompey sent by his Father in Law with a great Army,He is sent into Sicily. who no sooner was arrived in Sicily but Perpenna fled, and left the Island to him. Then did Pompey deal friendly and favourably with all the Citizens vvhich before had endured great troubles and misery,And conquer [...] it. and set them again at liberty, the Mamertines only excepted, who dwelt in Messina: they despising his jurisdiction and Government, pleaded the ancient priviledges of the Romans which had been formerly granted unto them.His cruelty. But Pompey ansvvered them angerly, What do you prating to us of your Law that have our Swords by our sides? He dealt also too cruelly [Page] vvith Carbo in his misery; for he might have killed him in hot blood when he first fell into his hands with less blame: But Pompey, when he was taken, caused him to be brought before him, though he had been thrice Consul, and to be publickly examined, sitting himself in his Tribunal, and condemned him to dye in the presence of them all, to the great distast, and offence of all that were present: Yet he bad them take him away to execution, which was done accordingly.

Pompey dealt as cruelly also with Quintus Valerius, a man of rare parts, and excellent Learning, who being brought to Pompey, he took him aside, and walked a few turns with him, and when he had learned what he could of him, he commanded his Guard to take him away and dispatch him. Pompey indeed was compelled to make away all Sylla's enemies that fell into his hands: But for the rest, all that he could suffer secretly to steal away, he willingly connived at it, and would not take notice of it, yea, himself did help many to save themselves by flight.

Pompey had determined to have taken sharp revenge of the City of the Himerians, who had stoutly taken the enemies part: But Sthenes, one of the Governours of the City, craved audience of Pompey, told him boldly, that he should do great injustice if he should pardon him, who was the only offender, and destroyed them who were not guilty. Pompey then asking him who he was that durst take upon himself the offence of them all? Sthenes answered, That it was himself who had perswaded his Friends, and compelled his enemies to do what was done: Pompey being much pleased to hear the frank speech, and boldness of the man, he forgave both him, and all the Citizens.

After this Pompey being informed that his Soldiers did kill divers in the highways, he caused all their Swords to be sealed up,His Prudence. and whose seal soever was broken, he punished them soundly for it.

Pompey being busy about these matters in Sicily, he received instructions, and a Commission from Sylla, and the Senate at Rome, to depart thence immediately into Africk, with all his power to make War against Domitius, who had a very great Army. Pompey accordingly speedily prepared to take the Seas, leaving Memmius, his Sisters Husband, to Govern Sicily, and so imbarking in sixscore Gallies and eight hundred other Ships,He passes into Africk. wherein he transported his Victuals, Ammunition, Money, Engines for Battery, and all other his Warlike provision, he hoised Sail, and Landed one part of his Army at Utica, and the other at Carthage, and presently after his landing, there came to him seven thousand Soldiers from his enemies to take his part, besides seven whole Legions that he brought with him.

Against him came Domitius with his Army in Battel array; but before him there was a Quagmire,His great Victories there. that ran with a very swift stream, very hard to get over; Besides, it had rained exceedingly all that morning, so that Domitius judging it impossible then to fight, bad his men truss up and be gone, Pompey on the other side, spying this advantage, caused his men to advance, and coming upon the enemy, who was now out of order, had a cheap Victory over them, wherein he slew about seventeen thousand of them, whereupon he was by his Souldiers saluted with the name Imperator, or Emperour, but he told them he would not accept of that honourable Title, so long as he saw his enemies Camp yet standing, whereupon they ran presently and assaulted it, and took it by force, and slew Domitius therein.

After this overthrow, all the Cities in that Country, came and submitted to Pompey, and those that refused were taken by force. They took also King Jarbas, who had sided with Domitius, and gave his Kingdom to Heimpsal. But Pompey being desirous further to imploy his Army, he went many days [Page] Journey into the main Land, conquering all wheresoever he came, making the power of the Romans dreadful to those Barbarous Nations, who before made small account of them. He caused also the Wild Beasts of Africk to feel his force, bestowing some days in Hunting of Lyons, and Elephants: And in fourty days he conquered his enemies, subdued Africk, and setled the affaires of the Kings, and Kingdoms of that part of the Country, being then but twenty four years old.

Pompey being returned to Utica, He is commanded to disband his Army. he received Letters from Sylla, willing him to discharge his Army, and to retain only one Legion with himself till the coming of another Captain that was to succeed him in the Government of that Country. This grieved him not a little, though he made no shew of it at all: But the Souldiers were much offended at it, and when Pompey prayed them to depart, they gave out broad speeches against Sylla, and told him directly that they were resolved not to leave him whatsoever became of them, and that they would not leave him to trust to a Tyrant.His Souldiers love to him. Pompey, seeing that he could not prevail with them, rose out of his seat, and went into his Tent weeping: But the Souldiers followed him, and brought him again to his Chair of State, intreating him to remain there, and command them, and he desired them to obey Sylla, and to leave their mutinies. In fine, he seeing they were resolved to press him, swore that he would kill himself rather then they should compel him, yet scarce did they leave him thus.

Hereupon it was reported to Sylla that Pompey was rebelled against him; which when he heard, he said to his Friends, Well, I see then that it is my Destiny in my old age to fight with Children. This he said, because of Marius the younger, who had done him much mischief, and had greatly endangered him.His return into Italy. But afterwards, understanding the truth, and hearing that all generally in Rome would go to meet Pompey, and receive him with all the honour they could, he resolved to go beyond them all in shew of good will: wherefore going out of his House to meet him, he embraced him with great affection,Sylla honours him. and welcomed him home, calling him Magnus, that is Great, and commanded all that were present to give him that Name also.

After this Pompey required the honour of a Triumph, which Sylla opposed, affirming that this honour should be granted to none but to such as had been Consuls, or at least Praetors: He told him also, that if he should stand for it he would oppose him. Pompey was not discouraged herewith, but boldly told him, That all men did honour, not the setting, but the rising Sun. Sylla heard not well what he said, and therefore enquired, and when it was told him, he wondred at the confidence of so young a man, and cryed out twice, Let him then Triumph on Gods Name. His first Triumph. Yet many were offended at it, but Pompey to anger them more, would be brought in his Triumphant Chariot drawn by four Elephants, many of which Beasts he had taken from the Kings, and Princes whom he had subdued: Howbeit the City Gates being to narrow for them, he was faign to leave his Elephants, and to be drawn in with Horses.

Now his Souldiers that had not all they looked for, nor that was promised to them, sought to hinder his Triumph, which being reported to him, he said. That he would rather lose all his preparations, than be forced to flatter them: He might have been made a Senator if he had sought after it, but in that he did not,Sylla envi [...] him, being so young, it pleased the People exceedingly, especially when after his Triumph they saw him still amongst the Roman Knights: On the other side Sylla was much vexed to see him come so fast forward, and so soon to rise to so great credit: yet being ashamed to hinder him, he suppressed it, till Pompey, contrary to his mind, brought in Lepidus to be Consul, through the good will of the People that furthered his desire. Hereupon Sylla seeing [Page] Pompey returning cross the Market place after the election,The People love him. with a great train of followers, he said to him, O young man! I see thou art glad of this Victory, and so thou hast cause: for questionless its a brave thing that through the favour of the People thou hast brought in Lepidus (the vilest person of all other) to be Consul, before Catulus the honestest man in the City: But let me advise thee to look well to thy self, for thou hast advanced one that will be a dangerous enemy to thee.

Sylla also discovered his ill will to Pompey, in that when he made his Will, he gave Legacies to every one of his Friends, and left Pompey wholly out:Sylla's Death. yet did Pompey take it well enough, and whereas Lepidus, with some others, after Sylla's Death, would have kept his Body from being Buried in the Field of Mars, and from Funeral solemnities, Pompey prevailed to bury him honourably.

Shortly after Sylla's Death, his Prophecy to Pompey concerning Lepidus proved true; For Lepidus openly usurping the power which Sylla had, raised an Army of those of Marius his faction, whom Sylla had hitherto suppressed, which put Pompey upon his best skill,Pompeys Wars with Lepidus. and experience; For which end he presently took part with the Nobility, and the honester part of the People, by whom he was imployed to raise an Army against Lepidus, who had already the greatest part of Italy, and by the help of Brutus, kept Gaul on this side the Mountains: the rest, Pompey easily subjected to himself, only he was somewhat long in besieging Brutus in Modena. During which time, Lepidus brought his Army to the Gates of Rome, demanding his second Consulship, which much affrighted the People: But they were soon comforted by a Letter which Pompey sent, wherein he informed them that he had ended his Wars without bloodshed. For Brutus had yielded himself to Pompey who had slain him.

Shortly after, Lepidus was driven out of Italy into Sardinia, where he fell sick, and died. At this time Sertorius was in Spain, who kept the Romans in great awe, being a valiant Captain, and one to whom all the Fugitives resorted. He had already overthrown many inferiour Captains, and was now grapling with Metellus Pius, who in his youth had been a Noble Souldier, but now being old, and too wary, he neglected many opportunities, which Sertorius, by his dexterity took out of his hands.

Hereupon Pompey keeping his Army together, endeavoured, by the help of his Friends, to be sent into Spain, as an assistant to Metellus: and at last, by the endeavour of Lucius Philippicus, he obtained the Government of that Country.

When Pompey was arrived in Spain, Sertorius gave out bitter jeers against him,He goes into Spain. saying, That he would use no other weapons against the young Boy but Rods: and that, if he were not afraid of the old woman, meaning Metellus, much less was he afraid of him. Yet for all these brags, he stood better upon his guard, and went stronger to fight than he did before, being afraid of Pompey. In this War the success was very various, yet nothing grieved Pompey more than Sertorius his winning the City Lauron. His Wars there. Yet shortly after in a set Battel, near the City of Valentia, he slew Herennius, and Perpena, both Gallant Souldiers, and Lieutenants to Sertorius, with ten thousand of their men. This Victory so encouraged Pompey, that he hasted to fight with Sertorius himself before Metellus came to him, that he might have the sole Glory of the Conquest. So they both met by the River of Sucron in the evening, both fearing the comming of Metellus, the one that he might fight alone, the other that he might fight with one alone. But when it came to trial, the Victory fell out doubtful, for either of their wings had the upper hand: Sertorius wa [...] great honour in this Battel, bearing all before him wheresoever he went: and Pompey encountering a great man at Armes, cut off one of his [Page] hands, yet he escaped by turning up his Horse with very rich caparisons amongst Pompey's followers, and whilst they were contending about the Horse, he escaped.

The next morning very early, both the Generals brought their Armies again into the Field, to confirm the Victory, which either of them supposed that he had gotten: But Metellus, coming to Pompey at that present, Sertorius retreated, and dispersed his Army. Pompey going to meet Metellus; when they came near, he commanded his Sergeants, and Officers to put down their bundles of Rods, and Axes which they carried before him, to honour Metellus the more, being a better man than himself: But Metellus would not suffer it, but in every thing made Pompey his equal, only when they Camped together, Metellus gave the watch word to all the Army.

Sertorius with a running Army, cut them short of Victuals, spoiling the Country, and keeping the Sea-side, so that they were forced to divide themselves and to go into other places for Provision. Pompey in the mean time having spent most of his estate in this War, sent to Rome for mony to pay his Souldiers, threatning that if they would send him no money, he would return with his Army into Italy. Lucullus being now Consul, though he was Pompey's enemy, yet procured the money for him, that himself might the better prevail to be sent against King Methridates: For he feared that if Pompey returned into Italy, he would procure to have that imployment.

In the men time Sertorius died, and Perpenna, who was chiefest man about him, supplied his room. But though he had the same Army, the same means, and the same power, yet had he not the same wit, and skill to use it. Pompey therefore marching directly against him, quickly discovered his insufficiency, and laid a bait for him, sending ten Troops to prey in the Fields, commanding them to disperse themselves abroad, which accordingly they did, and Perpenna, took the opportunity, and charged upon them, and had them in chase, but Pompey tarrying for them at a Foord, was ready with his Army in good order,His Victory. gave them Battel, and obtained the Victory, and thus ended all the War: For most of the Captains were slain, and Perpenna himself taken Prisoner, whom he presently put to Death. Perpenna shewed to Pompey Letters from the greatest Noblemen of Rome, who were desirous of change of Government, willing him to return into Italy. But Pompey fearing that they might occasion great commotions in Rome, His Prudence. put Perpenna presently to Death, and burned all the writings, not so much as reading any one of them.

Pompey after this,His return into Italy. remained in Spain till he had pacified all tumults, and then went with his Army back into Italy, and arrived just when the War of the Bondmen and Fencers, led by Spartacus, was in the greatest fury. Upon Pompey's coming, Crassus being sent General against them, made hast to give them Battel, wherein he overcame them and slew twelve thousand and three hundred of these fugitive Slaves. Yet Fortune intending to give Pompey some part of the honour,His Victory over the Fencers. five thousand of these Bondmen, who escaped from the Battel, fell into his hands, whom he overcame, and wrote to the Senate at Rome, that Perpenna had overcome the Fencers in Battel, and that he had plucked up this War by the roots. The Romans receiving these Letters, were very glad of the news for the love which they bore to him. Yet for all the great honour and love they did bear to him, they suspected, and were afraid of him, because he did not disband his Army, fearing that he would follow Sylla's steps, and rule over them by force: Hereupon as many went forth to meet him out of fear, as out of good will. But when he told them, that he would disband his Army so soon as he had Triumphed, then his ill-willers could blame him for nothing, but that he inclined more to the People than to the [Page] Nobles; and because he desired to restore the Tribuneship to the People, which Sylla had put down.

Indeed the common People at Rome never longed for any thing more than they did to see the Office of the Tribunes set up again:His favour with the People. and Pompey was very glad that he had such an opportunity, thereby to ingratiate himself with them, and to requite the love which they had shewed to him. This was the second Triumph, and the first Consulship which the Senate decreed to Pompey, which made him neither the greater, nor the better man, Yet was it such an honour, as Crassus (the richest, greatest, and eloquentest man in Rome) durst not demand before he had requested Pompey's good will therein: And truely Pompey was very glad of the request, having of a long time sought an opportunity whereby to gratifie him, and therefore he made earnest suit to the People for him, assuring them that he would as much thank them for making Crassus his fellow-consul, and Colleage, as he would for making himself Consul.

Yet when Pompey had obtained his request, and they were both created Consuls, they were in all things contrary one to the other, and never agreed in any one thing whilst they ruled together: Crassus had the more authority with the Senate, and Pompey with the People: for he restored to them the Office of Tribunes, and passed by Edict, that the Knights of Rome should have power again to Judge in causes both civil and criminal. This wonderfully pleased the people, when himself came in Person to the Censors, and pray'd that he might be dispensed with for going into the Wars.

At this time Gellius and Lentulus were the Censors, who being honourably set in their Tribunal seats, taking a view of all the Roman Knights that mustered before them, they marvelled when they saw Pompey comming, with all the Ensigns of a Consul born before him, and himself (as other Knights did) leading his Horse by the Bridle: and when he came near, he commanded the Sergeants that carried the Axes before him, to make room for him to pass by the Barrs with his Horse, where the Censors sate. This made the People to flock about him, wondring and rejoycing with great silence: the Censors themselves also▪were marvellous glad to see him so obedient to the Law,His Humility, and did him great reverence. Then did the elder of the Censors examine him thus; Pompey the Great, I pray thee tell me, if thous didst serve so long in the War as the Law doth appoint? Pompey answered aloud, Yes verily have I done, and that under no Captain but my self. The People hearing this, shouted aloud for joy, and the Censors themselves came down from their seats, and accompanied Pompey to his House, to please the great multitude that followed him, clapping their hands for joy.

At the end of their Consulship, grudges growing higher between Crassus, and Pompey, there was one Gaius Aurelius, a Knight, who till then had never spoken in the publick Assembly: He getting up into the Pulpit for Orations, told the People openly, that that night Jupiter had appeared to him, and commanded him to tell both the Consuls from him, that they should not leave their Office before they were reconciled together: Yet for all this Pompey stirred not: But Crassus took him by the hand, and spake thus before the People; My Lords! I think it no dishonour to me to give place to Pompey, sith you your selves have thought him worthy to be called the Great, befor he had any hair on his face, and to whom you granted the honour of two Triumphs before he came to be a Senator. Having thus spoken, they were reconciled together, and so gave up thier Office.

Crassus after this, retired to his former manner of life, and Pompey, as much as he could, avoided pleading mens causes in publick, and by degrees withdrew himself from frequenting the Market-place, and came seldom abroad, but when he did,His Pride. he had always a great train following him. It was a rare [Page] thing to see him to be familiar with any one, or to come abroad but with a great company of attendants.

The power of the Pirats upon the Seas began in Cilicia, The power of the Pirats. of which at first there was no great account made, till they grew bold and venturous in King Methridates Wars, being hired to serve him: and when the Romans engaged in Civil Wars at home, they neglected looking after them, which made them more audacious. For they did not only rob and spoil all Merchants by Sea, but plundred Islands, and Citics upon the Sea-coast, insomuch as men of great Nobility, and Wealth joyned with them, and they set up storehouses in divers places, and had Beacons to give warning by fire all along the Sea-coasts, which were well watched: they had also great Fleets of Ships well furnished, with excellent Galliots, skilful Pilots, and Marriners: their Ships were swift of Sail, and Pinnaces for discovery. All the Sea-coast over there was musick, singing, and rioting amongst them: Prizes were daily brought in, Persons of quality taken prisoners, and put to great ransom. Their Ships were a thousand in number, and they had taken four hundred Towns. They had spoiled and destroyed many Temples that had never heen profained before. They had many strange Sacrifices and Ceremonies of Religion amongst them, and besides all other insolences and injuries whcih they did the Romans by Sea, they often went on Land, and Plundred and destroyed their Country Houses; and once they took two Roman Praetors in their Purple Robes, with their Sergeants and Officers, and carried them quite away. At another time they surprised the Daughter of Antonius (a man that had the honour of a Triumph) as she was vvalking in the Fields, and put her to a great ransom. And further to dispite the Romans, when they had taken any of them, and they told them that they were Citizens of Rome, they would cloath them like Romans, and putting out the Ship-ladder they vvould bid them be gon to Rome, and if they refused they vvould throw them overboard, and drown them.

These Pirats had all the Mediterranean Seas at their command, that a Merchant durst scarce look out, or traffick any whether. This moved the Romans (fearing a famine by their means) to send Pompey to recove [...] the DominionPompey sent against them. of the Seas from them. The first man that moved that Pompey might not only be made Admiral at Sea, but have absolute power to command all Persons whatsoever without giving any account of his doings, was Gabinius, Pompey's Friend:His large Commssion. which was done accordingly, and absolute authority was given unto him, not only of the Seas, but for the space of four hundred Furlongs from the Sea, within which compass were many great Nations, and mighty Kings. It gave him power also to choose out of the Senate fifteen Lieutenants, and to give to every one of them several Provinces in charge, and also to take mony out of the Treasury to defray the charges of a Fleet of two hundred Sail, with full power besides to leavy what men of War he thought good, and as many Galliots, and Marriners as he pleased.

This Law was confirmed by the People. Yet the Nobility, and chief Senators thought that this authority did exceed, not only all envy, but that it gave them apparent cause of fear to give such unlimited power to a single Person: whereupon they were all against it but Caesar, who promoted it, not so much to favour Pompey, as to ingratiate himself with the People, But the Noblemen fell out with Pompey, and one of the Consuls was very hot with him, told him that he sought to follow Romulus his steps, but peradventure he would come short of that end he made: This so provoked the People that they had thought to have killed him: But Catulus, a worthy man, spake also against this Edict, yet spake much in the praise of Pompey, and in conclusion, advised the People not to adventure a man of so great account in such dangerous Wars; For (said he) if you chance to lose him, whom have ye then to put in [Page]his place? The People cryed out, Your self. After this, seeing how the People were bent, he spake on more.

Next after him Rosoius would have perswaded them to have sent another with Pompey as his Colleague, but the People made such an outcry against him, that a Crow flying over the Market place fell to the ground. Upon the day when the Decree was to be fully passed,His Policy. Pompey went forth of the City, and when he understood that it was confirmed, he returned the same Night privately, to avoid the envy they would have born him if the People should have flocked in multitudes to have waited on him home.

The next morning he came abroad, and Sacrificed to the Gods, and audience being given him in a publick meeting, he so handled the matter that they much inlarged his power, almost doubling the preparations, which were at first Decreed to him. For it was ordained that he should have five hundred Ships, one hundred and twenty thousand Footmen, and five thousand Horsemen. He chose also twenty four Senators, all of them having been Generals of Armies, and two General Treasurers. Whilest these things were preparing, the price of Victuals fell, which rejoyced the People much, and they said openly, that the very Name of Pompey had almost ended the War already.

Pompey divided all the Sea into thirteen Divisions, and in each of them he appointed a certain number of Ships, and a Lieutenant over each of them: and by thus dispersing his Navy all abroad, he brought all the Pirats Ships that were in a Fleet within his danger,His Victories over the Pirats. and when he had taken them, he brought them all into an Harbour. But such of them as could escape, fled into Cilicia, as the surest place of retreat: These Pompey would needs follow in his own Person with sixty of his best Ships: Yet went he not till he had scowred the Tuscan Seas, with the coast of Libia, Sardinia, Sicily, and Corsica, of all those Thieves that had wont to keep thereabouts, and this he did within the space of forty Days, taking infinite pains, both himself and his Lieutenants.

Piso, one of the Consuls, did all he could to hinder Pompey's preparations, and supplies O [...]men, out of envy to his prosperity. Pompey being informed of it,He comes privately to Rome. sent his Ships to Brundusium, himself in the mean time passing through Tuscany came to Rome; where so soon as his coming was known, the People ran out to meet him, as if he had been a long time absent; and that which made them more joyful was, that now Victuals came in freely out of all parts, the Seas being cleared from Pirates. Pompey could have had Piso put out of his Consulship, but would not. So having setled all things in quiet according to his desire,His return to his Navy. he hasted to his Navy at Brundusium, and hoising Sail, passed to Athens, where he landed and Sacrificed to the Gods, and so returned to his Ships. At his going out of the City there were two Writings in his praise affixed to the Gate. That within was this,

The humbler that thou dost thy self as Man behave,

The more thou dost deserve the Name of God to have.

That on the outside of the Gate was this,

We wisht for thee, we wait for thee,

We worship thee, we wait on thee.

Now Pompey having taken many of these Pirots, upon their submission spared their lives, which so encouraged the rest, that flying from his Captains, and Lieutenants,His Clemency, and Wisdom. they came and delivered up themselves with their Wives and Children into his hands. Pompey pardoned all that thus came to him, [Page] and by that means came to have knowledg of the rest, whom he pursued, and in the end took. The most and richest of them had convaied their Wives, Children and goods into strong Castles and Towns upon Mount Taurus, and they that were fit for service, imbarked, and lay before a City of Corasesium, where they tarried for Pompey, and gave him Battel by Sea, and after endured a Siege by Land: Yet after a while, they besought him to receive them to mercy, yielding themselves, their Towns, and Islands, which they had strongly fortified, into his hands. Thus was this War ended, and all the Pirats, within less than three Months space, driven out of the Seas.

Pompey won also a great number of Ships, and ninety Gallies armed with Copper Spurs. As for those whom he had taken (who were in number about twenty thousand lusty Men and good Souldiers) he would not put them to Death, but planted them in inland Countries in certain small Towns of the Cilicians, that were scarce inhabited, who were very glad of them and gave them Lands to maintain them: and whereas the City of the Solians had not long before been destroyed by Tygranes, King of Armenia, he replenished it again by placing many of them there. He bestowed others of them in the City of Dyma in the Country of Achaia, which lacked Inhabitants, and had great store of good Land belonging to it, though many of his Enemies greatly blamed him for it.

Before Pompey was chosen General against the Pirats, young Metellus was sent Praetor into Creet, who finding it to be a Den of these Thieves, he took many of them, and put them to Death: the rest that escaped, being straightly besieged by him, sent unto Pompey, craving pardon, and desiring him to receive them to mercy: Pompey accordingly pardoned them, and wrote to Metellus, requiring him to give over that War, commanding the Cities also that they should not obey Metellus. He sent also Lucius Octavius, one of his Lieutenants, who entered into the Towns besieged by Metellus, and sought against him in the behalf of the Pirats.His Envy. This act of Pompey procured him much ill will, for that he fought for the common Enemies of the World, who had neither God nor Law, and that only to deprive a Roman Praetor of his Triumph, who had done such good service against them. Yet Metellus left not off his Wars for Pompey's Letters, but having taken the Pirats, he put them to Death.

When the news came to Rome that the Piratick War was ended, and that Pompey had no more to do, but to go from City to City to visit them, one Manlius a Tribune of the People, brought in another Law, that Pompey, taking the Army from Lucullus, and all the Provinces under his Government, with all Bythinia, His Commission much enlarged. which Glabrio kept, should go and War upon Tygranes, and Methridates; and yet reserve in his hands all his jurisdiction, and Army by Sea in as royal a manner as he had it before, which was to make him an absolute Monarch over all the Roman Empire. The Senate stuck not so much at the injury offered to Lucullus, depriving him of the honour of his doings, and giving it to another, but that which most grived them was, to see Pompey's power established into a plain Tyranny: Hereupon they encouraged one another to oppose it to the uttermost: yet when the day came for the passing of this Law, they all drew back for fear of angring the People, and none durst oppose it: Only Catulus inveied against it a long time together: But say what he could, the Decree passed by the voices of the Tribes. And thus was Pompey in his absence, made Lord of all that which Sylla, with much effusion of blood had attained to with great difficulty.

When Pompey by Letters from Rome was informed what Law the People had past in his behalf, he seemed to be much grieved that such great Offices, and charges should be laid upon him one in the neck of another, and clapping [Page] his hands on his Thigh,His Dissimulation. he said, O Gods! shall I never see an end of these troubles? Had it not been better for me to have been a mean Man, and unknown, than thus continually to be ingaged in War? What! shall I never see the time, that breaking the neck of spite, and envy against me, I may yet once in my life live quietly at hone in my Country with my Wife and Children. His Friends that were about him were much displeased with this his deep dissimulation, knowing that his ambitious desire to rule, made him glad at heart to be thus imployed, the rather because of the contention between him and Lucullus, which his deeds forthwith discovered.

Hereupon he sent forth his Preceps into all quarters, requiring all Souldiers immediately to repare to him,His Pride. and caused all the Kings, and Princes within his jurisdiction to attend him, and so, going through all the Countries, he changed all that Lucullus had before established, He also released the penalties that were imposed upon them, and took from them all the favours that Lucullus had granted them.

Lucullus finding himself so hardly dealt with, Friends on both sides mediated a meeting betwixt them, that they might talk together, and accordingly they met in Galatia, having their Sergeants, and Officers with Rods wreathed about vvith Lawrel carried before them, vvhich shevved that Pompey came to take Lucullus's honour from him. Indeed Lucullus had been Consul before Pompey, and was the older man, yet Pompey exceeded him in dignity having Triumphed twice. At their first meeting they discoursed very courteously, each commending the others deeds, and each rejoycing at the others good success: but at parting they fell to hot words; Pompey upbraiding Lucullus's covetousness, and Lucullus Pompey's ambition, so that their Friends had much ado to part them.

Lucullus when he was gone, divided the Lands in Galatia which he had conquered,He crosses Lucullus. and bestowed other gifts upon them. Pompey on the other side, camping hard by him, commanded the People every where not to obey him: He took his Souldiers also from him, leaving him only sixteen hundred, choosing out such as he thought would do him small service. He blemished his Glory also, telling every one that Lucullus had fought only with the shadow and pomp of those two Kings, and that he had left him to fight with all their force, and power. Lucullus on the other side said, that Pompey went only to fight with such as himself had subdued, and that he sought the honour of Triumph over Armenia and Pontus, as he had formerly practised to Triumph for overcoming a few Slaves and Fugitives.

Lucullus being now gone, Pompey sent strong Garrisons into all the Sea coast from Phoenicia to the Bosphorus, and then marched towards Methridates, who had in his Camp thirty thousand Footmen, and two thousand Horsemen, yet durst he not fight, but encamped upon an high Mountain till he was forced to leave it for lack of Water. He was no sooner gone but Pompey seized upon the place,His Wars with Methridates. and setting his Souldiers to dig, he found Water enough for all his Army. Then he encamped round about Methridates besieging him in his own Camp: Methridates endured it forty five days, and then slaying all the sick and impotent in his Camp, with the choise of his Army he escaped by Night.

Another time Pompey found him by the River Euphrates, and lodged hard by him: Methridates prepared, suspecting that Pompey would that Night storm his Camp; but Pompey thought it not safe to fight in the dark, and therefore resolved rather to encompass him that he might not fly, and to fight him in the morning: but Pompey's old Captains would needs fight presently, which Pompey at last consented to, and the Romans ran upon them with great cries, which so affrighted their Enemies, that they presently turned their [Page] backs and fled, so that the Romans slew ten thousand of them, and took their Camp. Methridates himself with eight hundred Horse-men, made a Lane through the Romans and so escaped: Yet as soon as they were passed, his men dispersed, some one way, some another, that himself was left but with three Persons only, whereof Hypsicratea, a manlike woman was one, who never left him, but always looked to his Horse, being armed after the Persian manner, till he came to a strong Castle called Inora, where was store of Gold, and Silver, and the Kings chiefest Treasure. Here Methridates divided all his richest Apparel amongst his Friends, and to each of them a mortal Poyson to carry about them, whereby they might prevent falling into their Enemies hands alive.

Pompey built a City in the place where he gained this Victory betwixt the Rivers of Euphrates, He build [...] a City. and Araxes, situate in Armenia the Less, which he called Nicopolis. This City he gave by the consent of his Souldiers, to such of them as were old, lame, sick, wounded, or disbanded: to whom many of the Neighbours afterwards repairing, the Nicopolitans lived after the manner of the Cappadocians.

From hence Methridates had intended to have gone into Armenia, but King Tigranes prohibited it,Methridates flight. and promised an hundred Tallents to him that could kill him: Passing therefore by the head of Euphrates, he fled through the Country of Colchide: In the mean time Pompey invaded Armenia, being solicited thereto by Tigranes the younger, who rebelled against his Father, and met Pompey at the River of Araxes, which falleth into the Caspian Sea. Then did Pompey and he march forward, taking in such Towns as yielded unto them. Tigranes, who had been much weakned by Lucullus, understanding that Pompey was of a mild and Gentle nature, he put his Souldiers into Garrisons, and himself with his Friends, and Kinsman went to meet Pompey. When he came near his Camp, being on Horseback, there came two Sergeants to him commanding him to alight, which he did accordingly, and put off his Sword and gave it them,Base flattery. and when he came before Pompey he shamefully fell upon the ground, and imbraced his knees; but Pompey took him by the hand, raised him up, and made him sit down by him on the one side, and his Son on the other, saying to them both, As for your former losses you may thank Lucullus for them, who hath taken from you Syria, Phoenicia, Cilicia, Galatia, and Sophena, but for what you have left till my coming, you shall enjoy it, paying to the Romans six thousand Tallents, for the wrong you have done them: Provided also that your Son shall have Sophena for his part.

Tigranes accepted of the conditions, whereupon the Romans saluted him King, and he gave great sums of money amongst the Army: But his Son was much discontented, and when Pompey sent for him to come to Sup with him, he refused, wherefore Pompey imprisoned him, and kept him to be led in his Triumph at Rome.

Shortly after Phraates, King of Parthia, sent Ambassadors to desire this young Prince who was his Son in Law, and to tell Pompey that Euphrates must be the uttermost bounds of his Conquest. Pompey answered, that Tygranes had more right to his Son than Phraates, and as for limiting his borders, he would do it with Justice. So leaving Afranius to keep Armenia, he passed by other Nations that inhabited about the Mountain of Caucasus, having Methridates in chase. Two of the chiefest of these Nations were the Iberians, and the Albanians, near to the Caspian Sea. These, upon his request, suffered him to pass through their Countries. But Winter hasting on apace, these Barbarous People raised an Army of fourty thousand fighting men, and passed over the River of Cyrnus. His War with the Albanians. Pompey could have hindred their passage, but yet let them come over, and then fought with them, and overcame them, and slew multitudes of them in the Field, whereupon they submitted, and made peace with him.

[Page] Then Pompey went against the Iberians, And Illyrians. who took part with Methridates. They were more and better Souldiers than the Albanians: they were never subject to the Medes, and Persians, nor to Alexander the Great. These Pompey overcame also in a bloody fight, and slew nine thousand of them, and took ten thousand Prisoners. From thence he went into the Country of Colchide, where Servilius met him by the River of Phasis▪ with his Fleet with which he kept the Pontick Sea: He found it a hard work to pursue Methridates any further, who had hid himself amongst a People that bordered upon the Lake of Maeotis. He heard also that the Albanians had rebelled, wherefore he went back to be revenged on them, passing over the River of Cyrnus again, yet with much difficulty, because the Barbarous People had made a defence on the further side, by felling, and laying many Trees across all along the Bank of the River: and when he was got over, he was to travel through a dry Country a great way before he came to any Water, whereupon he caused ten thousand Goats skins to be filled with Water, and so marched over it. At the River Abas he met with his Enemies, who had now an Army of one hundred and twenty thousand Footmen, and ten thousand Horsemen, but Armed only in Beast skins. There General was Cosis, the Kings Brother. In the Battel this Cosis flew upon Pompey, His Valour. and throwing a Dart at him, wounded him in the flank; but Pompey ran him through with a Lance and slew him. Some say that some Amazons assisted this People against Pompey.

After this Battel Pompey going back to invade the Country of Hyrcania, as far as the Caspian Sea,Serpents drive him back. was forced to retreat by reason of an infinite number of deadly Serpents that he met withal, wherefore he went back into Armenia the less, to which place he had many rich presents sent him from the Kings of the Elymians, and the Medes, to whom he returned courteous answers. Yet he sent Afranius with part of his Army, against the King of Parthia, who had much harrased and plundred the Country of Tygranes, and he drave him out.

At this time the Concubines of Methridates were brought to him, but he would not touch any one of them,His Chastity. but sent them all home again to their Parents, and Friends, being most of them the Daughters of Princes, and other Noble Captains, Only Stratonice whom Methridates loved above all the rest, with whom he had left the custody of his Castle where lay all his Treasures of Gold and Silver, was but a Singers Daughter. She delivered the Castle into Pompey's hands,His self-denyal. and besides, offered him rich and goodly presents, all which he refused, saving such as might serve to adorn the Temples of the Gods, and that might beautifie his Triumph, leaving the rest to Stratonice to dispose of as she pleased. The King also of the Iberians sent him a Bedstead, Table, and Chair, all of pure Gold, praying him to accept it as a token of his love, he delivered them into the Treasurers hands to be accountable for them to the State.

From hence Pompey went to the City of Amisus, where he did such things as he had before condemned in Lucullus, taking upon him to establish Laws, to give Gifts, and to distribute such honours, as Victorious Generals used to do when they had ended all their Wars. And this he did to gratifie twelve Barbarous Kings, and Princes, and Captains that came to him thither. Writing also to the King of Parthia, he gave him not that Title which others used to do, who stiled him King of Kings. He had also a wonderful desire to win Syria, His Ambition. and to pass through Arabia even to the Red Sea, that he might enlarge his Victories every way, even to the Great Ocean. As he did when he conquered Lybia, and in Spain had enlarged the Roman Empire to the Atlantick Sea; and in pursuit of the Albanians he went almost to the Hyrcanian Sea.

As he passed on towards the Red Sea, he commanded his Souldiers, with [Page] a sufficient number of Ships to wait for the Merchants that sailed to Bosphorus; and to seize upon the Victuals, and other Merchandize that they carried thither: and so passing on with the greatest part of his Army, he came to the place where he found the Bodies of the Romans that were slain by Methridates under their Captain Trierius, His Charity. which he caused to be honourably buried, which thing Lucullus had neglected to do, which made his Souldiers hate him.

Pompey having now by Afranius conquered the Albanians dwelling about Mount Amanus, His acts in Syria, and Judaea. he marched into Syria, and conquered it, making it a Roman Province: He conquered also all Judaea, where he took King Aristobulus: He built certain Cities there, and delivered others from bondage, sharply punishing the Tyrants in them. He also spent much of his time there, in deciding controversies, and in pacifying the contentions which fell out betwixt free Cities, Princes, and Kings. And truly if Pompey's fame, and renown was great, so was his Vertue, Justice, and Liberality, which covered many faults which his familiar Friends about him did commit. For he was of such a gentle nature, that he could neither keep them from offending, nor punish them when they had offended.

Whilst Pompey was in Judaea, Pompey's acts in Judaea. being angry with Aristobulus, he marched against him, Hyrcanus (the Brother of Aristobulus, who contended with him for the Kingdom) provoking him thereunto. Pompey understanding that Aristobulus was fled into Alexandrion, a strong and stately Castle, seated upon a high Hill, he sent and summoned him to come unto him, and Aristobulus being advised not to make War against the Romans, he came to Pompey: and after he had debated his Title to the Kingdom, with his Brother Hyrcanus, by Pompey's permission he retired into the Castle again. This he did two or three times, always flattering Pompey out of hope to prevail in his suit. Yet Pompey required that he should deliver up his Castles into his hands, which he was fain to do, though he was much discontentedat it, and therefore he went to Jerusalem with a purpose to prepare for War.

Pompey not thinking it fit to give him any time for preparation, followed him immediately,He comes to Jericho. and first encamped at Jericho, where were most excellent Dates, and Balsom, the most precious of all other Ointments, and from thence he marched towards Jerusalem. Aristobulus repenting what he had done, came and met him, promising him mony, and that he would yield up, both himself and the City in a peacable way. Pompey pardoned him, and sent Gabinius with a party of Souldiers to receive the mony: Yet were they faign to return without it: for Aristobulus's Souldiers would not stand to what he had promised. Pompey being much provoked hereby committed Aristobulus into custody,He marches to Jerusalem. and presently marched against Jerusalem.

The Citizens being at this time divided amongst themselves, they that stood for Hyrcanus were willing to open the Gates to Pompey: But the faction of Aristobulus refused, and prepared for War, becausey Pompey kept their King Prisoner: and accordingly they seized upon the Temple, and cut down the Bridg which led into the City. Hyrcanus and his Friends, let in the Army, and delivered over to them, both the City, and the Kings Pallace, the custody of both which, Pompey committed to Piso, who fortified the Houses and buildings that were neer the Temple, first offering to the Besieged conditions of Peace, and when they refused, he prepared to give a General assault, being assisted by Hyrcanus with all things needful.

On the North side of the City Pompey encamped, which was the easiest to be assaulted: yet were there high Towers, and a deep Ditch made with hands,The Temple besieged. besides a deep Valley which begirt the Temple, and towards the City, [Page] the place was very steep when the Bridg was taken away. To overcome these difficulties, the Romans raised Mounts, cutting down Trees round about, and filling up the Trench with materials which the Souldies brought. This work proved very difficult, considering the vast depth of the Trench, and the resistance of the Jews, made from above. But when Pompey observed that the Jews rested every seventh Day (for though they would defend themselves from an assailing Enemy, yet they held it unlawful on that day to hinder any work that the Enemy did) he chose those Days especially wherein to carry on his work: So that in time the Trench was filled, and the Tower fitted upon the Mount, and the Engins planted, which shot huge Stones wherewith they battered the Temple, yet was it long before those strong and stately Towers yielded to the assaults of the Besiegers.

The Romans being much tired, Pompey wondered at the obstinacy of the Jews, especially considering that all this while they never intermitted their daily Sacrifices, which the Priests every Morning and Evening offered upon the Altar, not omitting the same in their greatest extremities. In the third month of the Siege, the greatest Tower, being shaken by the battering Rams, at last fell, and brake down a great piece of the Wall, at which breach many of the Romans rushed into the Temple.The Temple taken. These running up and down, while some of the Jews sought to hide themselves, and others made small resistance, slew them all. Many of the Priests, though they saw the Enemies rushing in with their drawn Swords, yet being nothing at all dismaied, continued their Sacrifices and were slain at the very Altar, preferring the duty which they owed to their Religion before their own lives.

All places were full of slaughters. Some of the Jews were slain by the Romans, others by their own Countrymen that were of the contrary faction. Many threw themselves down headlong from the Rocks:The Jews slain. others setting their Houses on fire, burnt themselves, not enduring to behold those things that were done by the Enemy. Here fell twelve thousand of the Jews, whereas of the Romans there were but few slain, though many wounded. Amongst the Captives that were taken, was Absolon, the Uncle and Father in Law of Aristobulus, the Son of John Hyrcanus.

Upon the same day and in the same month was the Temple taken by Pompey, Note the time when the Temple was taken. as it had been taken by Nebuchadnezzar five hundred and forty three years before: and it fell out also to be on their Sabbath, about the twenty eight day of our December, Pompey, entered into the Temple, and many others with him, and there beheld those things which were not lawful to be seen by any, but the High Priests only. And whereas there were in the Temple, the Table and Candlesticks with the Lamps, all Vessels for Sacrifice, and the Censers all of pure Gold, and a huge heap of Spices, and in the Treasuries of sacred mony above two thousand Talents, yet Pompey medled not with any of these, but the next day he commanded them which had the charge of the Temple, to purifie, and cleanse it, and to offer their solemn Sacrifices unto God.

Pompey then restored the High Priesthood to Hyrcanus, Hyrcanus made Prince and Priest. both because he had shewed himself so forward all the time of the Siege, as also for that he hindred the Jews that were in all the Country from joyning with Aristobulus: and together with the Priesthood he gave him the Principality also, only forbidding him to wear a Crown. Then did he put to death those that were the chiefest cause of the War, and made the Jews Tributaries to the Romans and the Cities which they had formerly conquered in Caelosyria, he took from them, commanding them to obey their own Governours: and the whole Nation of the Jews, formerly advanced through prosperity, he contracted within their ancient bounds.

[Page] The King of the Arabians that dwelt at the Castle of Petra, that never before made any account of the Romans, was now greatly afraid, and wrote to Pompey that he was at his devotion to do what he commanded. Pompey to try him, brought his Army before his Castle of Petra, and lodged them for that day, and fell to riding, and mannaging his Horse up and down the Camp: In the mean time Posts came riding from the Realm of Pontus with Letters of good news, as appeared by their Javelins wreathed about with Lawrel: the Souldiers seeing that, flocked about the place to hear the news, but Pompey would make an end of his riding before he would read the Letters, whereupon many cryed to him to alight, which he did: But then he wanted a high place to stand upon, and the Souldiers were so impatient to hear the news that they would not stay to make one, they heaped Saddles one upon another,Methridates Death. and Pompey getting up upon them, told them, that Methridates was dead, having killed himself because his Son Pharnaces rebelled against him, and had wan all which his Father possessed, writing to him that he kept it for himself and the Romans. Upon this news all the Camp rejoyced wonderfully, and Sacrificed to the Gods with great mirth.

Pompey finding this troublesome War to be so easily ended, presently left Arabia, and by speedy marches he came to the City of Amisus. There he met with great Presents which were sent him from Pharnaces, and many dead Bodies of the Kings Kindred, and the Body of Methridates himself, who was known by certain scars in his Face.His Policy. Pompey would by no means see him, but to avoid envy he sent him away to the City of Sinope. He much wondered at his rich Apparel, and Weapons: The Scabbard of his Sword cost four hundred Talents: His Hat also was of wondrous Workmanship. Pompey having here ordered all things according to his mind, he went homewards with great pomp and Glory. Coming to Mytylene, he eased the City of all Taxes for Theophanes his sake, and was present at certain Plays, the subjects whereof were the great acts of Pompey He so liked the Theater where these Plays were made, that he drew a moddle of it to make a statelier than it in Rome. As he passed by the City of Rhodes, His Liberality. he heard the Rhetoricians dispute, and gave each of them a Talent. The like he did at Athens unto the Philosophers there, and towards the beautifying of the City he gave them fifty Talents.

At his return into Italy he expected to have been received very honourably,He returns in to Italy. and longed to see his Wife, and Children, thinking also that they longed as much to see him: But God so ordered it, that in his own House he met with occasion of sorrow: For his Wife Mutia in his absence had played the Harlot. Yet whilst he was a far off, he made no account of the reports which were made to him of her:He divorceth his Wife. But when he drew neer to Italy, he was more attentive to them, whereupon he sent her word he would own her no more for his Wife. There were also rumours spread abroad in Rome which much troubled him; it being given out that he would bring his Army strait to Rome, and make himself absolute Lord of the Empire. Crassus hereupon, to give more credit to the report, and to procure the greater envy against Pompey, conveyed himself, Family, and Goods out of Rome.

But when Pompey came to Italy, He disband [...] his Army. calling his Souldiers together, he made an Oration to them as the time and occasion required, and then commanded them to disband, and every one to return to his own home, and to follow his business till the time of his Triumph. As he passed, such was the love of the People to him,The People honour him. that multitudes of them accompanied him to Rome whether he would or no, and that with a greater power than he brought with him into Italy, so that if he had been disposed to have made Innovation, he needed not the assistance of his Army therein.

[Page] At this time there was a Law that no man should enter into Rome before his Triumph, wherefore Pompey sent to the Senate, requesting them to defer the choise of Consuls for a few days, that he might further Piso, who sued for the Consulship that year: But through Caetoes means they denyed his request.He seeks to win Catio. Pompey marvelling to hear of his boldness and free Speech, was very desirous to make him his Friend. So Cato having two Neeces, he desired to marry one himself, and to have the other for his Son; but Cato flatly denied him, though his Wife, and Sister were angry that he refused to make alliance with Pompey the Great.

After this, Pompey being desirous to prefer Afranius to be Consul, he caused mony to be given to the Tribes of the People, which being reported abroad, made every man speak evil of him, as having put the Consulship to sale for money, whereas himself had purchased it by his Noble and Valiant deeds.

The time for his Triumph being come, the stateliness, and magnificence was such,His second Triumph. that though he had two days to shew it, yet lacked he time to produce all. For there were many things prepared for the shew which were not seen, and would have set forth another Triumph. First the Tables were carried wherein were written the Names of the Nations for which he Triumphed: as the Kingdoms of Pontus, Armenia, Cappadocia, Paphlagonia, Media, Colchis, Iberia, Albania, Syria, Cilicia, and Mesopotamia: As also the People that dwell in Phoenicia, Palestina, Judaea, and Arabia: And all the Pirats that he had overcome by Sea, and Land. In all these Countries he had taken a thousand Castles, and neer nine hundred Towns, and Cities. Of Pirats Ships eight hundred. Moreover he had replenished with Inhabitants thirty nine desolate Towns. These Tables also declared, that the Revenue of Rome, before these his conquests, arose but to five thousand Myriads, but now he had improved them to eight thousand, and five hundred Myriads. Besides, he now brought into the Treasury to the value of twenty thousand Talents in Silver, Gold, Plate, and Jewels, besides what had been distributed already among the Souldiers, of which he that had least, had fifteen hundred Drachma's for his share.

The Prisoners that were led in this Triumph, were the Son of Tygranes, King of Armenia, with his Wife, and Daughter: The Wife of King Tygranes himself, called Zozime: Aristobulus King of Judaea. The Sister of Methridates, with her five Sons: And some Ladies of Scythia. The Hostages of the Iberians and Albanians, as also the Kings of the Commagenians: Besides a great number of Marks of Triumph which himself and his Lieutenants had won in several Battels. But the greatest honour that ever he wan, and which no other of the Consuls ever attained to, was, that his three Triumphs were of the three Parts of the World, to wit, his first of Africk: his second of Europe: And his third Asia; and all this before he was forty yeards old. But from this time forward Pompey began to decline, till (with his Life) he had lost all his Honour.

Lucullus at his return out of Asia, was well received by the Senate, and much more after Pompey was come to Rome. For the Senate cncouraged him to deal in affairs of State, being of himself slow, and much given to his ease and pleasure, because of his great Riches. So when Pompey was come, he began to speak against him, and through Catoes assistance, gat all things confirmed which he had done in Asia, and which had been undone by Pompey. Pompey, having such an afront put upon him by the Senate, had recourse to the Tribunes of the People, the vilest of whom was Clodius, who closed with him, and had Pompey ever at his Elbow, ready to second what motion soever he had to make to the People: He also desired Pompey to forsake Cicero, his ancient Friend, but Clodius his utter Enemy. By this means Cicero was brought [Page] into danger, and when he required Pompey's assistance, he shut the door against him,Cicero leaves Rome. and went out at a back-door; whereupon Cicero was forced to forsake Rome.

At this time Julius Caesar returning from his Praetorship out of Spain, Caesars Policy▪ laid such a plot as quickly brought himself into favour, but tended to the ruin of Pompey. He was now to sue for his first Consulship, and considering the enmity between Pompey and Crassus, he considered that if he joyned with one, he made the other his Enemy, he therefore made them Friends, which indeed undid the Commonwealth. For by this means Caesar was chosen Consul, who strait fell to flattering of the People,He flatters the People▪ and made Laws for their advantage, distributing to them Lands, which embased the Majesty of the chief Majestrate, and made a Consulship no better than the Tribuneship of the People. Bibulus, his Fellow Consul, opposed him what he could, and Cato also, till Caesar brought Pompey into the Pulpit for Orations, where he asked him whether he consented to the Decree which he had set forth? Pompey answered That he did: und that he would defend it with the Sword. This gat him much ill will.

Not many days after,Pompey marries Caesars Daughter. Pompey married Julia the Daughter of Caesar, formerly betrothed to Servilius Caepio: and to pacifie Caepio, Pompey gave him his own Daughter in marriage, whom yet he had promised to Faustus, the Son of Sylla. Caesar also married Calphurnia, the Daughter of Piso. Afterwards Pompey filling Rame with Souldiers, carried all by force. For as Bibulus came to the Market place accompanied with Cato and Lucullus, they were basely abused, and many were wounded, and when they were driven away, they passed the Act for dividing of the Lands as they pleased. The People being encouraged hereby, never stuck at any matter that Pompey and Caesar would have done. And by this means all Pompey's former Acts were confirmed, though Lucullus opposed what he could. Caesar also was appointed to the Government of both Gauls with four whole Legions.

Then were chosen Consuls, Piso, Father in Law to Caesar, and Gabinius, Pompey's great flatterer.He dotes on his young Wife. Pompey now so doted on his young Wife, that he suffered himself wholly to be ruled by her, and leaving all publick affairs, he went with her to Country Houses, and places of pleasure, which encouraged Clodius, a Tribune of the people to despise him, and to enter into seditious attempts. For when he had driven Cicero out of Rome, and sent away Cato to make War in Cyprus, and Caesar was occupied in Gaul, finding that the people were at his beck, because he flattered them, he then attempted to undo some things that Pompey had established. Amongst others he took young Tygranes out of prison, and carried him up and down with him, and continually picked quarrels against Pompey's Friends. Pompey coming abroad one day to hear how a matter of his was handled, this Clodius having gotten a company of desperate Ruffians about him, gat up into a high place, and asked aloud, Who is the most licentious Captain in all the City? Pompey disgraced. They answered, Pompey. And Who (said he) is he that scratched his head with one finger? They again answered, Pompey, clapping their hands with great scorn. This went to Pompey's heart, who never used to be thus abused, and he was yet more vexed, when he saw that the Senate was well pleased with this his disgrace, because he had forsaken, and betrayed Cicero. Upon this a great uprore was made in the Market place, and many were hurt, whereupon Pompey would come no more abroad whilst Clodius was Tribune, but advised with his Friends how he might ingratiate himself with the Senate: they advised him to put away his Wife Julia, to renounce Caesars Friendship, and to stick again to the Senate. Some of these things he disliked, yet was content to call home Cicero, who was Clodius his mortal Enemy, and in great favour with the Senate.

[Page] Hereupon Pompey brought Cicero's Brother into the Market place to move the matter to the People, with many men about him, and they fell to blows, so that many were slain,Cicero recalled. yet he overcome Clodius, and Cicero was called home by the Decree of the People, who also brought Pompey into favour with the Senate, and caused a Law to be made whereby to enable Pompey to bring Corn to Rome; and thus by Cicero's means Pompey had once again power given him both by Sea and Land over all the Roman Territories. For all the Havens, Marts, and Fairs, and all Store-houses, and Merchandizes, yea, and Tillage, came into his hand.

For this Clodius accused him, saying, that the Senate had made this Law, not because of a dearth of Victuals, but that they made a dearth that so the Law might pass for restoring Pompey's power, which was almost come to nothing. Pompey having now full Authority to cause Corn to be brought to Rome, Pompey sent for Corn. he sent his Friends, and Lieutenants abroad, and himself went into Sicily; and when he was ready to return again, there arose such a storm, that the Mariners feared to weigh their Anchors; but he commanded them to do it,Note. saying, Its necessary that the People should have Corn, but its not necessary that I should live. Thus by his prudence and courage he filled all the Markets with Corn, and the Seas with Ships, and so great plenty of Provision was brought in, as fully furnished, not only Rome, but all Italy.

About this time Caesars great conquests in Gaul wan him much credit. But whilst they thought him to be Warring afar off,Caesar comes privately to Rome. he appeared in the midst of the People at Rome, and much opposed Pompey in the weightiest matter of the Commonwealth. For he had the power of an Army which he hardened with pains, and continual exercise, not only to fight against the Barbarous People, but to make himself invincible, and dreadful to the World. Moreover, by that infinite quantity of Gold, and Silver, and other Treasures that he gat from the Enemy, he purchased many Friends to himself, sending great Presents to Rome, He bribes the Officers. to the Aediles, Praetors, Consuls, and their Wives; therefore when he was come back over the Alps, and Wintered in the City of Luca, multitudes of the People, yea, two hundred of the Senate themselves, amongst whom were Crassus and Pompey, went out of Rome unto him. All these Caesar returned back again, some with store of mony, others with good Words: But with Pompey and Crassus he agreed, that they two should sue to be Consuls, and that himself would send good store of voices upon the day of Election: and that if they were chosen they should get a Decree of the People, that they should have some new Provinces, and Armies assigned to them, and withal, that they should procure his Government to continue for five years longer. This Plot being discovered, and spread abroad, gave great distast to honest men, and many who had intended to sue for the Consulship, gave it over. Only Lucius Domitius, being encouraged by Cato, stood for it. For (said he) Thou doest not contend for the Consulship, but to defend the liberty of thy Country against two Tyrants. Pompey fearing Catoes faction, thought it not safe to let Domitius come into the Market place: He sent therefore armed men against him, who slew the Torch-bearer that came before him, and made all the rest to flie, amongst whom Cato was the last man that retired, who, whilst he defended Domitius, was wounded in the Elbow.

Thus Pompey and Crassus came to be Consuls,Pompey chosen Consul. wherein they carried themselves very dishonestly. For the People being about to choose Cato, Praetor: Pompey perceiving of it, brake up the Assembly, falsly alleadging that he had certain ill signs, and afterwards, corrupting the Tribes, they chose Antias, and Vatinias, Praetors, and then by Trebonius, a Tribune of the People, they published an Edict that Caesar should hold his Government five years longer: Unto Crassus they appointed the Province of Syria, Provinces divided. and to make War against the Parthians. Unto Pompey they allotted Africk and both the Spains, with [Page] four whole Legions, of the which, at Caesars request, he sent him two, to assist him in his Wars in Gaul.

Crassus, at the going out of his Consulship, departed into Syria, and Pompey remained in Rome to dedicate the Theater which he had built,Pompey's Theater dedicated. where he caused many goodly Plays to be made, and caused Wild Beasts to be baited, and hunted, amongst which, five hundred Lions were killed: but the most terrible fight of all, was amongst his Elephants. This he did to gratifi [...] the People, though to his very great cost, and he procured much love to himself thereby. But he got more envy from others by committing the Government of his Provinces, and Legions, unto his Lieutenants, whilst himself with his Wife took their pleasure up and down Italy.

At an Election of the A [...]diles, on a sudden there was a great hurly-burly, Swords were drawn and many were slain about Pompey, so that he was saign to send home his Garments that were sprinkled with their blood and to fetch others. His young Wife that was great with child, seeing his clothes bloody, was so frighted that she fell into a swound, that they had much ado to recover her. At another time, being with child again, she fell in labour, and died in childbirth:Julia dieth. and as Pompey was carrying her into the Country to bury her neer unto the City of Alba at his Country House, the people took her corps, and carrying it into the Field of Mars, buried it there: and this they did more for Caesar, than for Pompey's sake.

This alliance between Pompey and Caesar being thus broken,Pompcy and Caesar quarrel. which rather covered than bridled their ambition to Rule, there arose a new stir in Rome, and every mans mouth was full of seditious words: About which time news came that Crassus was overcome and slain in Parthia, who was the only bar to hinder these two from civil War: for they both feared him, and therefore kept themselves quiet. Yet they thought the Empire of Rome was too little for them. Pompey thinking that Caesar would not disband his Army, sought to strengthen himself against him by procuring Offices in the City: and when he could not procure them, the people being bribed by Caesar, he left the City without a Magistrate, so that there were none to command, or whom the people might obey. Hereupon a rumour was spread that a Dictator must be chosen, and that Pompey must be the man: This Cato opposed with all his power: Bnt when Pompey's Friends excused him, saying, that he neither sought, nor would accept of it, then Cato highly commended him, and pray'd him to see good order kept in the Commonwealth, which accordingly he undertook.

Then were Domitius and Massala chosen Consuls, but after a while one of them died, vvhereupon many vvere earnestly bent to have a Dictator, and Cato fearing great disorders, was willing that Pompey should have some Office to keep him from that vvhich was more Tyrannical. Bibulus a chief man in the Senate, and Pompey's Enemy, was the first man that moved that Pompey might be chosen Consul alone: For (said he) by this means the Commonvvealth shall be rid of present trouble, or it shall be in bondage to an honest man. It vvas expected that Cato vvould have opposed this motion; but rising up, he told them, that he vvould not first have made this motion, but seeing it vvas propounded by another, he thought it meet, and reasonable to be follovved. For (said he) Its better to have an Officer to command, whatsoever he be, than to have none at all, and that there was none so sit to command in so troublesome a time as Pompey.

All the Senate consented hereto,Pompey made Consul. and ordained that Pompey only should be Consul, and that if he savv it needful to have the assistance of an other, he might name whom he saw good, yet not till two months vvere past. Pompey being thus made Consul alone, he carried it very friendly unto Cato, and thanked him for the honour he had done him, intreating his assistance in the [Page] execution of his Office. Cato replied that he had no reason to thank him; for what he had done, he had not done it for his sake, but out of his respect to the publick good: and that if he asked his counsel in any thing, he would give it him privately, if not, that he would openly speak that which he thought best,

Pompey then married Cornelia, He marries Cornelia, the Daughter of Metellus Scipio, the late Wife of young Publius Crassus, slain with his Father in Parthia. This Lady was of excellent beauty, and gifts, well learned, skilful in Musick, Geometry, and Philosophy; she was modest, and sober, free from brawling, or foollish curiosity. Her Father was Noble both by Birth, and deportment. Yet many disliked Pompey's marrying so young a Wife, and giving himself to Feasting and Jollity, when he should have looked to his Consulship in so troublesome a time.

Pompey proceeded sharply against those that by Bribery, and indirect means came to their Offices.His justice, He made Laws, and Ordinances for the administration of Justice, and himself dealt uprightly in all things, and took order that Judgment should be administred with silence, safety, and gravity. But when his Father in Law was accused, he sent for three hundred and sixty Judges home to his House, praying them to help him, which the accuser of Scipio understanding, let fall his suit,And injustice. Plancus also being accused, Pompey (contrary to the Law) spake in his commendation; whereupon Cato, who was one of the Judges, stopped his Ears, saying, that he would not hear an offender praised, being contrary to the Law: Plancus was condemned by all the Judges to the great shame of Pompey, Yet otherwise he set all things in good order, and chose his Father Scipio for his fellow Consul for the five last Months. Then he caused the Government of his Provinces to be assigned to him for four years more, with commission to take out of the Treasury a thousand Talents yearly, for to defray the charges of his Wars.

Caesars Friends seeing this, moved that some consideration might be had of him also, who made great Wars for the Commonvvealth, and by his good service had deserved either to be chosen Consul again, or else that they should prolong his charge, and Goverment, that no other successor might reap the fruit of his labours; Much stir arose about this matter: But Pompey said, that he had received Letters from Caesar, by which he requested a successor, and to be discharged of this War: adding that he thought it fit they should grant him the priviledg to demand the second Consulship though he was absent. This Cato stoutly withstood, saying, that leaving his Army he must return home as a private man, and in his own Person crave recompence of his Country. Pompey replying nothing hereto, made many think he bore no great good vvill to Caesar; the rather because he had sent to him for the two Legions which he had lent him under colour of his War against the Parthians. Though Caesar smelt his design,He sends to Caesar for his two Legions. yet he sent his Souldiers, and rewarded them liberally.

About this time Pompey fell dangerously sick at Naples, His sickness, and recovery. whereof he yet recovered again, and the Neapolitans sacrificed to the Gods, for his recovery; the like also did their Neighbours round about, and it ran so generally through Italy, The People honour him. that there was no City or Town wherein they did not make open Feasting, and rejoyced for many days together. The infinite number of People also which went to meet him out of all places was such, that there was not room enough for them all, but the High-ways, Cities, Towns, and Ports were full of People, Feasting and sacrificing to the Gods for his recovery. Divers also went to meet him that were Crowned with Garlands, casting Nosegays, and Flowers upon him. Yet some thought that this was the cause of the civil Wars that ensued.Pompey's Pride. For hereupon he grew so proud to see himself thus honoured, that forgetting his former Government, he began to despise [Page] Caesar, thinking that he could easily overcome him when he pleased, Besides, Appius that brought him his two Legions from Caesar out of Gaul, reproached much his doings there, and gave out many foul words against Caesar. For he said that Pompey knew not his own strength, who might overcome Caesar with his own Legions, for that when they saw Pompey they would forsake Caesar and turn to him.

These flattering Speeches made Pompey so secure, that he laughed them to scorn who were afraid of War; and such as said that if Caesar came to Rome, they knew not how his power could be resisted, he smilingly bad them take no thought, for if he did but stamp on the ground, he could fill Italy with Armies both of Horse and Foot out of all places.Note. In the mean time Caesar increased his Army, and drew neer to Italy, and sent some of his Souldiers daily to Rome to be present at the election of Magistrates, and many of those that were in Office he wan with mony: amongst whom was Paulus, one of the Consuls, whom he drew to his side by giving him fifteen hundred Talents, The like he did to Curio, a Tribune of the People by paying his vast debts, and he gained thereby Mark Anthony, who was engaged for a great part of Curio's debt. A Captain also sent from Caesar, being at the Senate door, and understanding that they would not prolong Caesars Government as he desired,The miseries of War. clapping his hand on his Sword, he said, Well! this shall give it him.

Curio requested in the behalf of Caesar, that they would either cause Pompey to disband his Army, or else licence Caesar to have his Army as well as he. For (said he) being private men they will either agree between themselves, or both being of like strength, neither will seek any alteration for fear of the other. But Marcellus the Consul, opposed this hotly, calling Caesar Thief, and saying that he would proclaim him an open Enemy to Rome if he did not disperse his Army. Yet Curio, Anthony, and Piso procured that the Senate should decide the matter, saying, All they that would have Caesar disband his Army, and Pomey to keep his, let them go to the one side of the House, and such as would have them both to disband, let them stand on the other: by this means it was carried against Pompey. Curio much rejoyced at the Victory, and going into the Market place, he was there received by his faction with shouts of joy, and clapping of hands, and Nosegays of Flowers thrown upon him.

Pompey was not present to see the good will of the Senators to him: but Marcellus stood up and said, that he would not stand trifling, and hearing Oration, when he knew that ten Legions were already passed over the Alps, intending to come in Arms against them, and that he would send a man that should defend their Country well enough. And so going through the Market place unto Pompey, being followed by all the Senators, he said openly: Pompey, I command thee to help thy Country with that Army thou hast already, Pompey made General against Caesar. and also to leavy more to aid thee. Lentulus also used the same Speech to him, who was chosen for the year following.

When Pompey went to leavy Souldiers in Rome, some would not obey him, and others went very unwillingly, the most part of them crying out Peace, Peace.The fruits of division. Anthony also, against the Senators minds, read a Letter to the People sent from Caesar, vvherein he seemed to make reasonable requests to draw the affections of the common People to him. For he moved that both Pompey and he should resign their Governments, and dismiss their Armies, referring themselves wholly to the Judgments of the People, and to deliver up unto them an account of their doings. Cicero, vvho was lately returned from Cilicia, endeavoured to bring them to an agreement, propounding that Caesar that should leave the Goverment of Gaul, and his Army, reserving only two Legions, and the Government of Illyria, attending his second Consulship.

[Page] Pompey liked not this motion, and so all treaty of Peace was cut off. In the mean time news came to Rome that Caesar had won Ariminum, a large and strong City in Italy, Wars between Pompey and Caesar, and that he came directly to Rome with a great power: But the truth was he came but with three thousand Horse, and five thousand Foot, and would not stay for the rest of his Army that was not yet come over the Alps, but hasted rather to suprise his Enemies on the sudden, who were all in a hurly-burly, not expecting him so soon, than to stay till they were fully ready to fight with him. When he came to the River of Rubicon (which was the utmost bound of the Province which he had the charge of in Italy) he made an Alt,Caesar passes Rubicon. pondring with himself the great enterprise he took in hand: At last he cryed out to them that were by, Jacta est alea, let the Die be cast: Or let us put all to the hazard, and so passed on with his Army.

News hereof coming to Rome, never was there such a consternation and fear seen amongst them. For all the Senate ran immediately to Pompey, together with all the rest of the City Magistrates, and Tullus asked him, what power he had in readiness to resist Caesar? He answered (but something faulteringly) that he had his two Legions that came from Caesar, and with those that he had levied in hast, he thought he should make up thirty thousand fighting men.Pompey reproached. Then Tullus cryed out, Ah! thou hast mocked us Pompey; and thereupon ordered Ambassadours to be sent to Caesar. Phaonius also, a bold man, said, Stamp now with thy Foot upon the Ground, Pompey, and make those Armies come which thou hast promised. Pompey patiently bore this mock. Then Cato thought good that they should make Pompey Lieutenant General of Rome, with full and absolute Power to command all, saying, They that knew how to do the greatest mischief, know best how to remedy the same. And so immediately he departed to his Government in Sicily. Also all the other Senators went to the Provinces whereunto they were appointed.

Thus all Italy being in Arms, no man knew what was best to be done: For such as were out of Rome came flying thither out of all parts,The confusion in Italy. and such as were in Rome, fled out as fast, where all things were in disorder. They which were willing to obey were very few, and they who by disobedience did hurt, were too many, neither would they suffer Pompey to order things as he would, because every one followed his own fancy, yea, in one day they were in divers minds. All this while Pompey could here no certainty of his Enemies, the reports being so various; and when he saw the tumult, and confusion so great at Rome that there was no possibility of pacifying it, he commandéd all the Senators to follow him,Pompey leaves Rome. declaring all such as staid behind to be Caesars Friends. The two Consuls fled also without Sacrificing to the Gods, as their manner was when they went to make War: And Pompey in his greatest danger and trouble had great cause to think himself happy, because he had every mans good will.

Shortly after Pompey was gone out of the City,Caesar enters Rome. Caesar came into it, who spake very friendly to all whom he found there, labouring to quiet their fears: Only he threatened Metellus, one of the Tribunes, because he would not suffer him to take any of the Treasure of the Commonwealth, saying, That it was not so hard a thing for him to kill him as to speak it. Thus having put by Metellus, and taken what he pleased out of the Treasury, he prepared to follow Pompey, intending to drive him out of Italy before his Army should come to him, out of Spain.

Pompey in the mean time took Brundusium, Pompey at Brundusium. and having gotten some Ships together, he caused the two Consuls presently to embark, with thirty Compays of Footmen, which he sent before to Dyrrachium. He sent also his Father in Law Scipio, and his Son Cneius Pompeyius into Syria to provide him [Page] Ships. Then did he fortifie Brundusium, and guarded the Walls with Souldiers, commanding the Citizens not to stir out of their Houses. He cast up Trenches also within the City at the end of all the streets, saving those two which led to the Haven, and filled those Trenches with sharp pointed stakes, and when at leasure he had imbarked all the rest of his Souldiers, he by a sign, called off those vvhich guarded the Walls, and having received them into his Ships,He leaves Italy. he hoisted Sails and departed.

Caesar finding the Walls of Brundusium unguarded, presently suspected that Pompey was fled,Caesar pursues him. and rushing into the City, he had certainly faln into the Pits, but that the Brundusians gave him warning of them, whereupon he fetched a compass about to go to the Haven, and coming thither, he found all the Ships under sail save two, vvherein were a few Souldiers. Some judged this departure of Pompeys the best Stratagem of War that ever he used: But Caesar marvelled that being in so strong a City, and expecting his Army out of Spain, and being Master of the Seas besides, he vvould so easily forsake Italy. Thus Caesar vvithin threescore days became Lord of all Italy vvithout bloodshed. He was very desirous speedily to have followed Pompey, but having no Ships ready, he was forced to stay. Then did he hasten into Spain to joyn Pompey's Army with his own.

Pompey in the mean space had gotten a marvellous great power together both by Sea,Pompey's Power by Sea. and Land. By Sea he had five hundred good Ships of War, besides multitudes of Galliots, Foists, and Pinnaces, By Land he had all the flower of the Horsemen of Rome, and of all Italy to the number of seven thousand Valiant men, and of great Houses: But his Footmen were raw and untrained Souldiers, whom Pompey continually exercised at the City of Beraea, taking as much pains therein as if he had been in his youth. It was great encouragement to others to see Pompey, His industry and activity. being fifty eight years old, fighting on foot compleatly Armed, and then speedily to mount on Horseback, and in his full Career to draw, and put up his Sword, to cast his Dart, with as much agility and strength, and point blank, that few young men could do the like.

To Pompey there came divers Kings,Many came to him. Princes, and Lords of great Countries: and of Roman Captains, who had born Office, to the number of a vvhole Senate. Amongst these, there came also Labienus, who formerly had been Caesars great Friend, and an assistant to him in his Wars in Gaul. There came also to him Brutus, a very Valiant man, vvho had never before spoken unto Pompey, because he thought him guilty of his Fathers Murther, but novv he vvillingly joyned with him as a defender of the Roman Liberties. Cicero himself also, vvho had Written, and given counsel for Peace, thought it a shame not to be amongst the number of those vvho would hazard their lives in the defence of their Country. There came also Didius Sextus, though he was an old man, and lame of one of his Legs, vvhom when Pompey savv coming (though others laughed him to scorn, yet) he rose up and vvent to meet him, judging it a sign of much love vvhen such old men chose rather to accompany him in danger, than to remain at home in safety.

The chief of Pompey's Army, sitting in Counsel, decreed that no Citizen of Rome should be put to death, but such as fell in Battel: That no City subject to the Empire of Rome should be sackt, vvhich made Pompey's part liked the better: And most judged those, Enemies both to the Gods, and Men, that did not vvish him the Victory.Caesars curtesie, and mildness, Caesar also shevved himself very courteous, and merciful; for having taken all Pompey's Army in Spain, he set all the Captains at liberty, and only reserved the Souldiers to himself: Then coming over the Alps again, he passed through all Italy, and came to Brundusium in the Winter time, and from thence, passing over the Sea he came to [Page] the City of Oricum: and having Vibius, one of Pompey's familiar Friends with him, whom he had taken Prisoner, he sent him to Pompey again to desire that they might meet, and both of them disband their Armies within three days, and being reconciled, and having given their Faith each to other, to return into Italy like good Friends together. But Pompey durst not trust to these fair words, judging them but snares to entrap him. He therefore suddenly removed to the Sea coast, and took all the places of strength neer to the Sea side, safely to lodg his Camp in, and all the Ports, Harbours, and Creeks, fit for Ships to lie in, so that whatsoever Wind blew, it served his turn to bring him either men, victuals, or mony.

Caesar, on the other hand was so distressed both by Sea and Land, that he was driven to hasten to a Battel,Caesar wants Victuals. and to assail Pompey even in his own strength, to force him to fight with him, and for the most part he always had the better in most skirmishes, saving one, wherein he was in danger to have lost all his Army. For Pompey had valiantly repulsed all his men, and made them flie,Caesar beaten, and had slain two thosand of them in the Field, but he durst not enter pell mell with them into their Camp when they fled: which made Caesar say to his Friends, That his Enemy had won the Victory that day if he had known how to overcome. This Victory did so encourage Pompeys men, that they would needs hazard a Battel. But Pompey, though he wrote to many of his Friends and Confederates as if he had already beaten Caesar, yet was he not willing to adventure all upon a Battel, thinking it better, by protracting time and cutting his Enemy short of Victuals, to overcome him.

For this end Pompey perswaded his men to be quiet, and not to stir: But when Caesar, after this last bickering, being scanted of Victuals, raised his Camp, and departed to go into Thessaly, through the Country of the Athamaneans, then he could no longer bridle their courage, who cryed out, Caesar is fled, let us follow him: And others said let us return home into Italy. Imprudence. And some sent their Friends, and Servants to Rome to hire them Houses near the Market place, intending at their return, to sue for Offices. Some in a jollity would needs sail to Lesbos, where Pompey had left his Wife Cornelia, to carry her the good news that the War was endeed.

Pompey calling a Counsel, Affricanus thought it best to go into Italy, and to win that, as being the chiefest mark they shot at in this War: For whosoever had that, was sure of all Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, Spain, and Gaul: He said also, that it was a dishonour to Pompey (who should be very tender of his credit) to suffer their Country to be in such bondage, and subjection to Slaves, and base flatterers of a Tyrant, when as it offered it self as it were, into their hands. But Pompey thought it dishonourable for him to flie from Caesar, and to make him follow him, since he now had him in chase, nor lawful before the Gods now to forsake his Father in Law Scipio, and many others, who had been Consuls, and who were dispersed up and down Greece, and Thessaly, who by this means would certainly fall into Caesars hands, together with their Riches, and Armies. He said also, that they had care enough for the City of Rome by drawing their Armies farthest from it, so as they remaing safe and quiet at home, not feeling the miseries of War, might joyfully welcome him home that remained Conquerour.

With this determination he followed Caesar, not intending to give him Battel, but to besiege him and so to cut him short of Victuals: But whilst he pursued him fair and softly, his men cryed out of him, that he intended not to War against Caesar, but against his own Country, that he might still keep the authority in his hand. Phaonius also mocked him, and went crying up and down, My Masters, I give you notice that you are like to eat no Tusculan [Page] Figs this year. Folly. With these and many other such lewd Speeches, they compelled Pompey to submit to their rash and giddy desires, contrary to his more prudent purpose, and determination, which yet a General over so many Nations, and Armies, should not have done. These little considered that he with whom he was to sight,Caesars great Victories. was Caesar, who had taken a thousand Towns, and Cities by assault, had subdued above three hundred several Nations, had won infinite Battels of the Germans and Gauls, and was never overcome: Had also taken a Million of men Prisoners, and had slain as many in divers Battels. Yet Pompeys men still vexing him with their importunity, when they were come into the Fields of Pharsalia, caused him to call a Counsel. There Labienus the General of the Horsemen, swore before them all, that he would not return from the Battel till he had driven his Enemies out of the Field: and the like Oath did all the rest of the Commanders take.

The Night before the fatal Battel there were heard sudden and fearful Noises in Pompeys Camp,Prodigie [...]. which awaked all the Souldiers. At the changing of the fourth Watch, there was seen a great light over Caesar Camp, like unto a burning Torch which came and fell in Pompeys Camp. In the morning Caesar intending to raise his Camp, and to remove to the City of Scotusa, whilst his Souldiers were busy in sending away their Bag, and Baggage, some brought Caesar word that they saw much Armour, and many Weapons carryed too and fro in thier Enemies Camp, and heard a great noise and bustling, as of men that were preparing to fight. His Scouts also brought him word that Pompeys Van was already set in Battel array. Caesar much rejoyced when he heard this, saying, Now the day is come that we shall no longer sight with hunger, and want, but with men, and thereupon gave order that they should presently put out the red coat of Arms upon his Tent, which was the sign used amongst the Romans when they were to fight. The Souldiers when they saw that, left their Tents, Carriages and all, and with great shouts of Joy, ran to arm themselves, and so without noise or tumult they were by their Captains put into Battel array.

Pompey himself led the right Wing of his Battel against Anthony. The middle Battle he gave to Scipio his Father in Law which was right against Domitius Calvinus: The Battel of Pharsalia, His left Wing was led by Lucius Domitius Aenobarlius, which was guarded by the men at Arms; for all the Horsemen were placed there, to distress Caesar if possibly they could, and to overthrow the tenth Legion, which contained the valiantest Souldiers that Caesar had; and amongst whom himself always used to fight in Person. Caesar seeing the lest Wing of his Enemies so strong with the guard of Horsemen, brought six Company's of Foot for a reserve, and placed them behind the tenth Legion, commanding them to stand close, that they might not be discovered by the Enemy: and commanded them when the Horsemen should charge upon them, that they should not throw their Darts strait forward but upwards at their Faces: For (said he) These brave Fellows and fine Dancers, will not endure to have their Faces marred.

Pompey being on Horse-back rode up and dovvn to observe hovv both Armies vvere marshelled, and perceiving that his Enemies stood still in their ranks, expecting the signal of Battel, and that his ovvn Battel vvaved up and dovvn disorderly, as men unskilful in the Wars, he feared that they would flie before they were charged. Therefore he commanded his Van to stand steadily in their ranks, and to defend themselves in a close fight when the Enemy should assault them. But Caesar disliked this devise: for thereby (said he) the force of their blows was lessened, and by with-holding them from giving the charge, that courage was taken away which the assailant carrieth with him when he comes on with fury, it made them also more fainthearted in receiving the Enemies charge. In Caesars Army there were [Page] about twenty two thousand fighting men, and in Pompeys above twice so many.

When the signal of Battel was given on either side, and the Trumpets sounded an Alarm, every man began to look to himself. But a few of the chiefest of the Romans, and some Grecians that were amongst them, that yet were not entred into the Battel, perceiving the eminent danger, began to bethink themselves to what a sad pass the ambition, and contention between these two great Persons had brought the State of Rome unto, where were Kinsmen against Kinsmen, and Brethren against Brethren imbrewing their hands each in others blood. Whereas, if they could have been contented quietly to Govern what they had conquered, the Roman Empire was big enough for them both. Or if that could not have quenched their insatiable desires and thirst after Glory, they had occasion enough offered them against the Germans, and Parthians: Or else they might have proceeded to conquer Scythia, and India. For what Scythian Horsemen, or Parthian Arrows, or Indian Riches, could have withstood the power of seventy thousand Roman Souldiers, especially being led by two such Captains as were Pompey and Caesar, whose Names were famous through the World.

Now when the Fields of Pharsalia, were covered over with Horse and Men in Arms, after the Signal was given, the first man of Caesars Army that advanced forward to give the charge, was Caius Crassinius, a Captain of one hundred twenty and five men: and this he did to make good his promise to Ceasar, who having asked him that morning what he thought of the event of the Battel? he said, Oh Caesar! Thine is the Victory, and this day thou shalt commend me either alive or dead. Valour. Thereupon he brake out of his rank (many others also followed him) and ran into the midst of his Enemies, making a great slaughter; but as he still pressed forward, one ran him through the neck and slew him.

Pompey did not make his left Wing to advance over suddenly, but staid to see what his Horsemen would do, who had already divided themselves, intending to compass in Caesar, and to force his Horsemen (who were fewer in number) to give back upon his squadron of Footmen, and thereby to disorder them. But on the other side, Caesars Horsemen gave back a little, and the six Companies of Footmen that he had placed secretly behind them (being three thousand in number) ran suddenly to charge the Enemy in the Flank, and coming neer to Pompeys Horsemen, they threw their Darts (as Caesar had appointed them) full in their Faces. The young Gentlemen, being raw Souldiers, and little expecting such a manner of fight, had not the hearts to defend themselves, nor could abide to be hurt in their Faces, but turning their Heads, and clapping their hands on their Faces, they fled shamefully. They being thus routed, Caesars men made no account to follow them, but went presently and charged his Infantry, and especially where they had no guard of Horsemen, by which means they might be the easiler compassed about. Thus they being charged by these in the Flank and in the Van also by the tenth Legion, finding themselves (contrary to their expectation) compassed about by their Enemies, whereas they thought to have environed them, they could no longer make resistance, but were put to the rout also.

When Pompey saw the dust flying up in the air,Pompey beaten. and thereby conjectured the flight of his Horsemen, he was like a man amazed, and at his wits end, forgetting that he was Pompey the Great, and so retiring into his Camp, he fat silent for a good while, till such time as his Enemies entered pell mell into it, together with his men that fled: and then he said no more, but, What! Into our Camp? And so rising up, he put on a Gown fit for his sad condition, and secretly stole out of the Camp: His other Legions also fled, and Caesars [Page] men made a huge slaughter of the Tent keepers, and of their Servants that guarded the Camp: there were slain about six thousand. But at the taking of the Camp Caesars Souldiers plainly saw the madness and folly of Pompeys men: For their Pavillions and Tents were full of Nosegays, and Garlands of Mirtle, and their Couches covered with Flowers, their Tables full of Bowls of Wine, as men prepared to sacrifice for joy, rather than to arm themselves to fight.

When Pompey was gone a little way from his Camp,He flies. he forsook his Horse, having very few with him, and perceiving that none pursued him, he walked fair and softly on Foot, having his head full of thoughts. For he, for thirty four years together used always to be Victorious, and therefore now it was strange to him to flie:Vanity of all earthly enjoyments. He now law how in one hours space, he had lost all that Glory and Riches which he had purchased by so many great Victories. He, that not long before was followed and obeyed by so many thousand men of War, by so many Nations, and Horsemen; by such a great Fleet upon the Sea, was now faln into a low and poor estate, with so small a train, that his very Enemies who sought him, knew him not.

When he had thus passed the City of Larissa, he came into the Valley of Tempe, where being a thirst he fell down on his belly, and drank of the River, then rising up, he went, and came to the Sea side, and lay all Night in a Fishers Cottage. The next Morning by break a day he went into a little Boat upon the River, having some Freemen with him, and as for his Slaves he dismissed them, and bad them go boldly unto Caesar, and not to be afraid. Thus rowing up and down the shore side in this little Boat, he espied a great Ship in the Sea lying at Anchor, which was ready to sail away: The Master of the Ship was one Peticius, a Roman, who, though he was not acquainted with Pompey, yet he knew him well by sight. Some of the Marriners told Peticius that they saw a little Boat coming towards them, wherein were some men that held up their hands, and made signs to them: Peticius looking, knew Pompey, and commanded his Marriners to let down the Boat, wherewith giving Pompey his hand, he received him into the Ship, and those that were with him, and then hoised Sail. With Pompey their were both the Lentuli, and Faonius. Presently after they espied King Dejotarus coming in a Boat towards them, and making signs to be taken in, which accordingly they did. At Supper time the Master made ready such meat as he had aboard. And Faonius seeing Pompey for want of attendants,Humillity. washing himself, he ran to him, and anointed him, and ever after waited upon him, doing such Offices as Servants do to their Masters, washing his Feet, and preparing his food for him.

Pompey then passing by the City of Amphipolis, sailed to the Isle of Lesbos to fetch his Wife Cornelia, Pompey goes to his Wife. and his Son, who were at Mitilene, and having there cast Anchor in the Rode, he sent a Servant into the City to his Wife, whose Message did not answer her expectation. For she had still been put in hope by Letters of her Husbands good success, and that the War was well ended: The Messenger finding her thus confident, thought not fit to salute her, but rather by his Tears discovered the great misfortune of Pompey; and at last told her, that she must dispatch quickly if she would see her Husband, with one Ship only, and that not his own, but borrowed: The young Lady hearing this, fell down in a swound before him, but after she was come to her self, remembring that it was now no time to weep and lament, she went speedily through the City to the Sea side. There Pompey meeting her, took her in his Arms and embraced her: But she finking under him, fell down, and at last said:Their Speeches each to other. Out alas? Wo worth my hard Fortune, not thine, good Husband, who now see thee with one poor Ship, who before thou marriedst me the Unfortunate Cornelia, was wont to sail in these Seas attended with five hundred. [Page]Alas! Why art thou come to see me, and didst not rather leave me to my accursed destiny, seeing my self am the cause of this thy evil? Alas! How happy had I been if I had died before I heard of the death of my first Husband Publius Crassus, slain in the Parthian War? And how wise had I been if (according to my determination) I then had slain my self, whereas I yet live to bring this misfortune upon Pompey the Great? To this Pompey answered: Peradventure (my Cornelia) thou hast known a better fortune which hath also deceived thee, because she hath continued longer with me than her manner is. But since we are born men, we must patiently bear these troubles, and once more try what she will do. For it is not impossible for us again to change this adversity for prosperity, no more than it was to fall from our late prosperity into this Calamity.

When Cornelia heard him say so, she sent into the City for her houshould stuff, and Family: The Metilenians also came to salute Pompey, praying him to come and refresh himself in their City: But Pompey refused, and advised them to obey the Conquerour; for (said he) Caesar is of a just, and curteous Nature. Then Pompey turning to Cratippus the Philosopher, who came amongst the Citizens to visit him,He reasons about Providence. made his complaint to him, and reasoned a little with him about Divine Providence. Then taking his Wife and Friends he hoised sail and departed, staying no where but to take in fresh provision and water.

The first City that he touched at, was Atalia in the Country of Pamphilia. Thither came to him some Gallies out of Cilicia, and many of his Friends and Souldiers, insomuch as he had now sixty Senators in his Company. Then understanding that his Army by Sea was yet whole, and that Cato had gathered together a great number of his Souldiers after the overthrow, whem he had transported with him into Africk, he complained to his Friends for that they had compelled him to fight by Land, and not suffered him to make use of his Fleet, wherein he was the stronger, and that he kept not his Army neer to the Sea, that in case he miscarried at Land, he might presently have repaired to his Fleet at Sea, and thereby have resisted his Enemy.

Thus Pompey being driven to attempt somewhat according to his small ability, to some Cities he sent Ambassadours, to others he went himself to gather mony, wherewith he armed and manned some Ships. But fearing the sudden approach of his Enemy, before he could be in readiness to resist him, he bethought himself to what place he might retire for his better safety, and resolved that there was never a Province of the Romans that was able to secure him, and for other strange Nations, he thought none safer for him to retire into than Parthia, which was able to aid and help him. Some advised him to go into Africk unto King Juba. But Theophanes the Lesbian said, that it was great folly to decline Egypt that was but three days sail from thence, and where Ptolomy was, who was lately come to mans estate, and was infinitely bound to Pompey for the late favours which he shewed to his Father, and not put himself into the hands of the Parthians, the most unfaithful Nation in the World. He thought it also an ill part for him to carry his young Wife of the Noble Family of Scipio, amongst such barbarous People, who care not how basely they abuse any strangers. The Speech altered Pompeys mind, and made him resolve to flie into Egypt: and so with his Wife Cornelia, Pompey flies into Egypt. he departed from Cyprus in a Galley of Seleucia. The rest of his Train, imbarked also, some in Gallies, other in Merchant Ships, and so passed the Sea vvithout danger.

When Pompey heard that King Ptolomy was in the City of Pelusium with his Army,He s [...]ds to King Ptolomy. vvarring against his Sister, he steered that way, and sent a Messenger before to the King, to certifie him of his arrival; and to entreat him to give him entertainment: King Ptolomy was at this time but a young man, and under him, the whole Realm was governed by one Photinus. He therefore [Page] assembled a Councel of the chiefest,A Councel about Pompey, and wisest of his Court, and when they were met, Photinus in the Kings name commanded every man to declare his Judgment about the reception of Pompey whether they should intertain him or not; and truly it was a sad thing that Photinus an Eunuch, and Theodotus of Chio, vvho was the Kings Schoolmaster for Rhetorick, and Achillas an Egyptian, should consult amongst themselves what they should do vvith Pompey the Great.

All this vvhile Pompey rode at Anchor near to the shore, expecting the resolution of this Councel, amongst vvhom their opinions vvere various, some were for, others against his reception; But Theodotus the Rhetorician, to shevv his eloquence, perswaded them that neither the one, nor the other was to be done. For (said he) if we receive him, Base treachery and ingratitude. we shall make Caesar our Enemy, and Pompey our Lord: If we receive him not, Pompey will blame us, and Caesar also for not keeping him. Our safest way therefore is to kill him: for thereby we shall win the good will of the one, and not sear the displeasure of the other: Adding that Mortui non Mordent, A dead man bites not. This they all resolved upon, and accordingly gave Achillas Commission to do it.

This being concluded, Achill as took vvith him Septimius (vvho had sometimes served under Pompey) and Salvius a Centurion, and two or three other Souldiers, and so made to wards Pompeys Galley, about vvhom there were at this time the chiefest of his Train to see vvhat vvould be the issue of this matter. But vvhen they favv vvhat intertainment he was like to have, and that they came not in that Princely manner, answerable to the hopes that Theophanes had put them in, seeing so few men coming tovvards him in a Fisherboat, they began to mistrust the sequel, and advised Pompey to turn back, and to launch again into the Sea, vvhilst he was yet out of the reach of their Darts. In the mean time the Fisherboat drevv near, and Septimius rose up and saluted Pompey in the Roman Tongue by the name of Imperator, or Emperor. Achillas also spake to him in Greek, vvishing him to come into his Boat, the shore being full of mud, and sand banks, so that his Galley could not carry him to the shore.

At this time they saw afar off divers of the Kings Gallies which were arming vvith all speed possible, and all the shore vvas full of Souldiers, so that though Pompey and his Friends vvould have altered their minds, yet they could not tell hovv to escape, and if they had diseovered their mistrust of them, they had given the Murtherers a cloak for their cruelty.Pompey takes his leave of his Wife and Son. Pompey therefore taking his leave of his Wife Cornelia, vvho lamented his Death before his end, he commanded tvvo of his Centurions to go dovvn before him into the Boat, and took vvith him only Philip, one of his Slaves enfranchised, vvith another Slave called Scynes. When Achilles reaching out his hand to receive Pompey into his Boat, he turned him to his Wife, and Son, and repeated these Verses of Sophocles:

The Man that into Court comes free,

Must there in state of bondage be.

These were the last Words which he spake to them. The Land being far off, when he saw never a man in the Boat speak friendly to him, he said unto Septimius, Methinks, my Friend, I should know thee, for thou hast served under me heretofore: the other nodded with his head, but gave him no answer. Pompey observing these things, took a little Book into his hand, wherein he had written an Oration that he ment to make to King Ptolomy, and began to read it. As they approached to the shore, Cornelia, with her Friends about her, stood up in great fear, to see what would become of Pompey, and she hoped well when she saw many of the Kings People on the shore, [Page] coming towards Pompey, as it were to receive, and honour him at his landing. But even as Pompey took Philip by the hand to rise more easily, Septimius came behind him, and thrust him through with his Sword: Salvius, and Achillas also made at him with their Swords. Pompey did no more but took up his Gown, with which he covered his face, and took the wounds in a manly manner,Pompey is slain. only sighing a little. Thus ended he is Life the very next day after his Birth, being fifty nine years old.

They which rode at Anchor in their Ships, when they saw him thus Murthered, gave such a fearful cry that it was heard to the shore: And weighing their Anchors with speed, they hoised Sail and departed, having a lusty gale of Wind to help them. The Aegyptians had thought to pursue them, but when they saw they were past their reach, they let them go. Then striking off Pompeys Head they threw his Body overboard, where it was a miserable spectacle to all that desired to behold it. Philip, his infranchised Bondman, stirred not from it till the Aegyptians had glutted themselves with looking upon it. Then having vvashed it with Salt water, and wrapped it up in an old Shirt of his own, he sought about the Sands, and at last found a piece of an old Fisher-boat, scarce enough to burn all the Body: and as he was gathering the pieces of this Boat together, there came to him an old Roman, who in his Youth had served under Pompey, saying, O Friend, what art thou that preparest the Funerals of Pompey the Great? Philip answered, that he was a Bondman of his infranchised. Well (said he) thou shalt not have all this honour alone, Pray thee let me accompany thee in this devout deed, that I may not altogether repent me that I have dwelt so long in a strange Country, where I have endured much misery; but to recompence me, let me have this good hap to touch Pompeys Body, and to help to bury this most famous Captain of the Romans.

The next day Lucius Lentulus, not knowing what had happened, coming out of Cyprus, sailed by the shore side, and perceiving a Funeral fire, and Philip standing by it, he asked him whose Funeral it was? But straight fetching a great sigh, alas (said he) perhaps it is Pompeys the Great. Then he landed a little, and was presently slain. This was the deplorable end of Pompey the Great.

Caesar not long after came into Aegypt, where there were great Wars, at which time Pompeys Head was presented to him, but he turned aside and would not see it, abhorring him that brought it as a detestable Murtherer. Then looking on his Signet Ring whereon was engraven a Lion holding a Sword,The Murtherers justly punished. he burst out a weeeping. Achillas and Photinus he put to death. King Ptolomy being overthrown in Battel by the River Nilus, vanished away and was never after heard of. Theodotus escaped Caesars hands, and wondred up and down Aegypt in great misery, dispised of every man. And afterwards Marchus-Brutus (who slew Caesar) when he conquered Asia, met with this Theodotus by chance, and putting him to all the torments he could possibly devise, he at last slew him. The Ashes of Pompeys Body were afterwards brought to his Wife Cornelia, His Burial. who buried them in a Town of hers near the City of Alba.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF JULIUS CAESAR The First FOUNDER OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE.

[Page]

JULIUS CAESAR by the Fathers side was of a very Noble and ancient Family,Caesars Parentage. and by the Mothers side he descended from the Kings of Rome, who were extracted from the Trojan Aeneas. When he was a youg man, Sylla having gotten the Lordship of Rome, would have had him put away his Wife Cornelia, who was the Daughter of Cinna, the Dictator, but he could not prevail with him, either by promises or threats to do it, whereupon he took away her Joynter from him.

Sylla being very busie in putting to Death many of his Enemies, yet passed by Caesar whom he contemned for his youth.His danger by Sylla. And Caesar was not contented to retire in safety in those stormy times, but came and made suit to the People for the Priesthood which was then void, when he had scant any hair on his Face: but by Syll [...]s means he suffered a repulse, who was so irritated hereby, that he determined to have killed him; and when some of Syllas Friends told him, that it was to no purpose to put so young a man to Death, he answered, That they did not consider that there were many Marius's in that one Boy.

Caesar being informed of his danger,His flight. secretly fled from Rome, and hid himself [Page] a long time amongst the Sabines, wandering from one place to another, yet at length he fell into the hands of a party of Syllas Souldiers who sought for him, but he bribed their Captain with two Talents, and so escaped. Then went he unto the Sea side, and taking Ship, he passed into Bythinia unto King Nicomedes. He is taken by Pirates. And after a while, he took Sea again, and fell into the hands of some Pirates, who at that time kept all the Sea-coast, with a great Fleet. They asked him twenty Talents for his Ransom, Caesar laughed them to scorn, as not knowing what a man they had taken, and of himself promised them fifty Talents, and sent some of his men to get him this mony, so that he was almost left alone amongst these Thieves, which were the cruellest Butchers in the World, having only one of his Friends and two Slaves with him.

Thus he continued thirty eight days amongst them, not as a Prisoner, but rather waited upon as a Prince by them:His boldness. For he boldly exercised himself amongst them in their sports: He would make Orations and call them together to hear them, and if they seemed not to understand or regard them, he would call them Blockheads and Beasts, and laughing would threaten to hang them, and they took all in good part, thinking that it proceeded from his Boyish simplicity.

When his Ransome was come, he paid it them and so was dismissed;He is delivered. and presently arming and manning some Ships out of the Haven of Miletum, he followed these Thieves, and finding them yet at Anchor, he took most of them, and got a great Booty, and carryed their Persons to the City of Pergamus, and there imprisoned them, whilst himself went to Jumus, the Governour of Asia, to whom the execution of these Pirats did belong. But he desiring to get the mony, because there was good store of it, said, that he would consider of the [...]e Prisoners at better leasure. Caesar hereupon returned back to Pergamus, He crucifies the Pirates. and there hung up all the Thieves openly upon the Cross, as he often had threatened that he would do, when they thought that he was but in jest.

When Syllas power began to decay, Caesars Friends wrote to him to return to Rome: But he first went to Rhodes to study there for a time, under the Tuition of Apollonius, an honest man and excellent Rhetorician, whose Schollar also Cicero had been. Caesar had an excellent gift to speak well naturally, which was much holpen by his Studies, so that he was very Eloquent, and might have been second to none, but that he applied himself rather to follow the Wars, and to mannage great matters than to pleading of causes.

When he was returned again to Rome, His return to Rome. he immediately wan the good will of the People by his Eloquence, and courteous speaking to every man, being more ceremonious in his deportment than could be expected from one of his years.He grows popular. Besides, he ever kept a good Table, and fared well, and was very liberal, which much encreased his estimation with the People. And his Enemies, presuming that when he could not hold out that charge and expence, the favour of the People would quickly decay,And is feared. they suffered him to go on, till by degree he was grown very great, and powerful. So that though some of them foresaw that his power would at last turn to the destruction of the Commonwealth of Rome, yet now they knew not how to prevent it. Indeed Cicero was the first man, who mistrusting his dealings, found out his subtilty and malice, which he cunningly cloaked under a shew of courtesie, and familiarity: Yet (said he) When I consider how finely he combeth his fair bush of hair, and how smooth it lyeth, and that I see him scratch his Head with one finger, my mind gives me then, that such a man should not be so wicked as to design the ruin of the Commonwealth.

The first time that he made proof of the good will of the People was, when [Page] he stood in competition with Pompey to be chosen a Collonel of a thousand Foot Souldiers, and carryed it against him; but a more manifest proof of it was at the Death of his Aunt Julia, the Wife of Marius the elder. For then he solemnly made an Oration in her commendations in the Market place, and at her Burial, did boldly shew forth the Images of Marius, which was the first time that they were seen after Syllas Victory over him, at which time Marius and all his partakers had been proclaimed Traytors and Enemies to the Commonwealth. And whereas some cryed out upon Caesar for doing it, the People on the other side applauded and thanked him for it. And whereas there was an ancient custom that the Romans used to make Funeral Orations in commendation of old Ladys, but not of young Women. Caesar was the first that praised his own Wife in an Oration at her Funeral, which much engaged the People to him, seeing him of so kind, and loving a nature.

Shortly after he was made Treasurer under Antistius Vetus, His preferment. the Praetor, for which he ever after honoured him, so that when he himself came to be Praetor, he made his Son Treasurer under him, and when he came out of that Office, he married his third Wife, whom was Pompeia and married his Daughter Cornelia which he had by his first Wife, to Pompey the Great. He further ingratiated himself with the People by disbursing a great sum of his own mony in mending the Appian way, vvhen he was made Overseer thereof: as also for that, vvhen he was chosen an Aedile, he shewed the People the pastime of three hundred and twenty couple of Sword Players, and exceeded all others in the sumptuousness of his Feasts and sports vvhich he made for the delight of the People, vvhich made them daily to give him new Offices by way of requital.

Not long after the High Priest Metellus died, and Isauricus and Catulus, two of the chiefest men, and of the greatest authority in Rome, contended for the place: Caesar also presented himself to the People and sued for it, and Catulus fearing the event, sent a great sum of money to Caesar, to procure him to leave off his suit: Caesar sent him word, that he vvould disburse a greater sum than that to maintain the suit against him: and vvhen the Day of Election came, his Mother bringing him to the Door, Caesar vveeping kissed her, and said,His ambition▪ Mother, This day thou shalt see thy Son chief Bishop of Rome, or banished from Rome;He is made High Priest. and accordingly he carried it by the suffrages of the People, insomuch as the Senate and Noble men vvere all affraid of him, judging that from henceforth he vvould make the People do vvhat he pleased.

Afterwards Caesar going into the Senate to cleer himself of some accusations that vvere brought against him, the Senate keeping him somewhat longer than ordinary, the People come to the door and called for him, bidding them let him out. Whereupon Cato fearing an insurrection of the poor and needy Persons, who put all their hopes in Caesar, moved, that a frank distribution of Corn for a month should be made amongst them, vvhich indeed put the Commonvvealth to the charge of fifty five hundred Myriads, but it quenched the present danger, and did haply scatter the best part of Caesars strength, and that at such a time vvhen he was made Praetor, and had thereby opportunity of doing much mischief. Yet all the the time of that Office,His Moderation he never attempted to make alteration in the Commonvvealth.

About this time Clodius vvas suspected of too much familiarity vvith Pompeia, vvherefore Caesar put her avvay.He puts away his Wife. The Government of Spain being faln unto Caesar as he vvas Praetor, his Creditors came with great importunity calling for their debts: But he being unable to satisfie them; went to Crassus, the richest man in Rome; who stood in need of Caesars bloldness and courage to [Page] withstand Pompeys greatness, who became his surety to his greadiest Creditors, for eight hundred and Thirty Talents, whereupon he was suffered to depart to his Province.

As he passed over the Alps he came to a little poor Village, where his Friends that did accompany him, asked him merrily if there were any contending for Offices in that Town, and whether there were any strife amongst the Noble-men for honour?His ambition. Caesar answered, I cannot tell: but for my part, I had rather be the chiefest man here, than the second person in Rome. Another time in Spain reading the History of Alexander he was sorrowful a good while after, and at last burst out into weeping. His Friends marvelling at it, asked him what was the cause of his sorrow? He answered, Do you not think that I have good cause to be sorry, when Alexander (being no older than my self) had conquered so many Nations and Countries, whereas hitherto I have done nothing worthy of my self.

When he first came into Spain he followed his business close, and in a short time had joyned ten new Ensigns of Foot Souldiers, unto the other twenty which he had before. Then marching against the Gallicians, and Lusitanians, he conquered all before him as far as to the Atlantick Ocean,His Victories in Spain. subduing those People which before knew not the Romans for their Lords; and then did as wisely take order for the establishing of Peace. For he reconciled the Cities together, made them Friends: But especially he pacified all suits of Law betwixt Debtors and Creditors which arose by usury:His Prudence. Ordaining that the Creditors should take yearly two parts of the revenew of their Debtors, till such time as they had paid themselves, and that the Debtors should have the other third part to live upon. By this he won great estimation to himself, and returned from his Government very wealthy, his Souldiers also were full of rich spoils.

The Romans had a custom, that such as desired the honour of Triumph, should stay without the City, whereas they that sued for the Consulship must of necessity be there in Person. Caesar coming home just at that time when Consuls were to be chosen, he sent to request the Senate that he might be permitted to sue for the Consulship by his Friends: Against this Cato at first did vehemently invey, alleadging that it was contrary to an express Law. But when he perceived that many of the Senators (being Caesars Friends) favoured his request, he cunningly sought all he could to prevent them: whereupon Caesar resolved rather to give over his suit, for the Triumph, than to lose the Consulship: So he came into the City, and outwitted all but Cato. His device was this. Pompey and Crassus were the two greatest Persons in Rome, and at jar between themselves:His Subtilty. Caesar affecting to make himself greater than either of them, sought to make them Friends, and thereby to get the power of them both: For indeed, they both affected his Friendship, that by his help they might supplant one another. And in the end, by his endeavours, a peace was concluded betwixt them: yet being still jealous one of another, and fearing to lose Caesar, they both sought to gratifie him, and by this means he made himself equal to either of them: and that power which they two had formerly usurped, was now divided between three, and in the end Caesar hereby got the sole command.

This league being made betwixt them, Caesar demanded the Consulship, being brought into the Assembly for the Election betwixt these two Noble Persons and was there chosen Consul,He is chosen Consul. together with Calphurnius Bibulus, without the contradiction of any: And when he was entered into his Office, he began to put forth Laws meeter for a sedicious Tribune than for a Consul, because by them he preferred the division of Lands, and distributing Corn to every Citizen Gratis, and all to please the People: And vvhen the Senators opposed it, he took the advantage, Protesting [Page] that the Senate by their austerity drave him against his will to cleave to the People, and thereupon he asked Crassus and Pompey in the open Assembly, if they gave their consents to his Laws? They answered, yea. Then he prayed them to stand by him against those that threatned to oppose him with the Sword: Crassus said he would, and Pompey did the like, adding, that he would come with his Sword and Target both against such; which gave great offence to the Senate, but the common People much rejoyced.

Caesar to oblige Pompey more to him,He Marries his Daughter to Pompey. gave him his Daughter Julia in Marriage, who was made sure before to Servilius Caepio, promising him in her stead Pompeys Daughter, who also was made sure unto Faustus, the Son of Sylla. And shortly after Caesar himself Married Calphurnia, the Daughter of Piso, whom he caused to succeed him in the Consulship. Cato then cryed out, and called the Gods to witness, that it was a shameful thing that they should make such havock in the Commonwealth by such horribly Bawdy matches, hereby dividing amongst themselves the Government of Provinces, and great Armies. And Bibulus perceiving that he did but contend in vain, Caesar being too potent for him, and that his Life was in danger for opposing these Laws, he kept his House all the rest of his Consulship.

Pompey having married Julia, he filled the Market-place with Souldiers, and by open force authorised the Laws which Caesar had made in favour of the People:He is sent into Gaul. He procured also that Caesar had both the Gauls, and all Illyria, with four Legions, granted him for five years: and when Cato stood up to speak against it, Caesar bad his Officers to lay hold on him, and carry him to Prison, thinking that he would have appealed to the Tribunes, but Cato said no more, but went his way. And Caesar seeing that not only the Nobility, but the Commons also were offended at it, out of respect to Cato's virtues, he secretly prayed one of the Tribunes that he would take Cato from his Officers, which was done accordingy. Many of the Senators refused to be present in the Senate under him, but left the City, because they could not endure his doings; whereupon one Considius, an old man told him, that the Senators durst not meet because of his Souldiers. Why then (said Caesar) dost not thou also keep home out of the same fear? Because (said he) My age takes away my fear from me, for having so short a time to live, I care not to prolong it further.

Caesar preferred Clodius, a base fellow, to be Tribune, who sought the Office for no other end but to destroy Cicero, He betrays Cicero. who had discovered his Villanies, and Caesar would not go to his Province till he had set them two together by the ears, and driven Cicero out of Italy. Yet did he deserve the name of as brave a General as any that went before him, if we consider the hard Countries which he adjoyned to the Empire of Rome: The multitude and power of the Enemies whom he overcame: The rudeness and Valour of the men with whom he had to do, whose manners yet he molli [...]ied, and civilized: His courtesie, and clemency to those whom he overcame: His great bounty and liberallity to those that served under him: As also if we consider the number of Battels that he fought, and the multitude of Enemies that were slain by him.His Valour and great successes. For in less then ten years, he took by assault above eight hundred Towns: He conquered three hundred Nations: and having at several times above thirty hundred thousand Souldiers against him, he slew a Million of them, and took as many more Prisoners. He was so intirely loved of his Souldiers,His Souldiers Valour. that to do him service, and to advance his honour, they were invincible: As appears by the example of Acilius, who in a Sea-fight before the City of Marseiles, boarding one of the Enemies Ships, had his right hand cut off, and yet he ran upon his Enemies, thrusting them in their faces with his Target on his left hand, and so prevailed that he took their Ship.

[Page] One Cassius Scaeva also in a fight before the City of Dyrrhacium, having an eye put out with an Arrow, his shoulder stricken through with a Dart, and his thigh with another, having received thirty Arrows upon his Shield, called to his Enemies as if he would yield to them: but when two of them came running to him, he cut off one of their armes by the shoulder, and wounded the other in the face, and made them give back till he was fetched off by some of his fellows. In Brittain also when some of his Captains were driven into a bog full of mire and dirt, the Enemies fiercely assaulting them there, Caesar viewing the Battel, he saw a private Souldier thrust in amongst the Captains, where he fought so valiantly that at length he forced the Barbarous People to fly, and thereby saved the Captains, who otherwise had perished there: And then this Souldier being the hindmost of all the Captains, marched through the bog, sometimes swimming, and sometimes on foot, till he gat to the farther side, only he lost his Target. Caesar wondring at his valour, ran and imbraced him: But the poor Souldier, hanging down his head, with tears in his eyes, fell at Caesars feet, begging pardon for leaving his Target behind him. In Africk also, Scipio having taken one of Caesars Ships, slew all that were in it, save Petronius, a Treasurer, to whom he profered life: But Petronius answered him, that Caesars Souldiers used to give others their lives, and not to have their lives given them, and thereupon slew himself with his own Sword.

Now Caesar bred this courage in them by rewarding them bountifully, and honouring them. He also gave them a good example by adventuring himself upon manifest dangers, and putting his body to extream pains when there was occasion, which filled them with admiration. As for his constitution he was lean, white, and soft skin'd, and often troubled with the Head-ach, and sometimes with the falling sickness,His Temperance. yet yielded he not to his sickness, but rather took pains as a Medicine to cure it, travelling continually, living soberly, and commonly lying abroad in the Fields. Most nights he slept in his Coach, and in the days travelled up and down to see Cities, Castles, and strong-holds. He had always a Secretary with him in his Coach, who writ as they went by the way, and a Souldier behind him that carryed his Sword. He made such speed when he had gotten his Office at Rome, that in eight days he came to the River of Rhone. He was an excellent Rider from his youth:His activity. for holding his hands behind him, he would run his Horse upon the Spur.

In his Wars in Gaul, or France, he used to exercise himself in inditing Letters by the way, wherein he was so nimble that he imployed two Secretaries, or more at one time. He made very little account of his Diet, Supping one night in Millane with his Friend Valerius Leo, there was served at Table some Sperage with some perfumed oyl instead of Sallet oyl, he eat it, and found no fault, blaming his Friends who were offended at the mistake, saying, that if they liked it not they should have let it alone, and that it was not good manners hereby to shame their Friend. At another time in his Journey he was forced by foul weather to shelter himself in a poor Cottage that had but one Cabbin, and that so narrow that one could scarce lye in it, whereupon he said to his Friends, the greatest rooms, are fittest for the greatest men, and Beds for sick persons, and so caused Oppius that was sick to lye there, and himself with the rest of his Friends, lay without doors.

The first War that Caesar made in Gaul, He overcomes the Swissers. was against the Helvetians, or Swissers, and the Tigurines, who having set fire of their own Cities and Houses, came to invade that part of Gaul which was subject to the Romans. These were a very War-like and Valiant People, and in all they were three hundred thousand souls, whereof there were one hundred and ninety thousand fighting men: yet were they overthrown by Labienus, Caesars Lieutenant at the [Page] River Arax. And when the Heluetians afterwards came suddenly to set upon Caesar, he made hast to get into some place of strength, and there ordered his Battel against them, and when one brought him his charging Horse, he said, when I have overcome mine enemies, then I will get upon him, to pursue them, and so marching against th [...]m on foot, he fiercely charged them: The Battel continued long before he could make them fly: yet had he more ado to take their Camp, and to break the strength that they had made with their Carts. For not only those that were fled into it, made head again, but their Wives and Children also fought stoutly for their lives, till they were all slain, and the Battel was scarce ended by midnight.

Presently after, above one hundred thousand of those that had escaped from this Batt [...]l, were forced by Caesar to return into their own Country again, and to the Towns which they had burnt; and this he did lest the Germans should come over the Rhine, and settle themselves in that Country being void.

The next War that Caesar made was in defence of the Gauls against the Germans, And the Germans. though himself had before admitted Ariovistus their King to be received as a confederate of the Romans: Notwithstanding which, they were grown very unquiet Neighbours, watching but an opportunity to possess themselves of the rest of Gaul. Caesar perceiving that some of his Captains much feared them, especially the young Gentlemen of Noble Families, who went along with him as to some Pastimes, he commanded all that were afraid to return home, and not endanger themselves against their wills. But for himself he said, he would set upon those Barbarous People, though he had left him but the tenth Legion only. Upon this the tenth Legion sent their Officers to thank him for the good opinion he had of them: and all the other Legions blamed their Captains for their backwardness, and followed him cheerfully till they came within two hundred Furlongs of the Enemies Camp.

Ariovistus his courage was well cooled when he saw Caesar so near,And the Gauls. whereas they thought that the Romans were afraid of them: His Army also was in a great amaze. But that which discouraged them most, was the Prophesies of some foolish women, who observing the terrible noise which the Water in the River made, advised the Germans by no means to fight, and they being possessed with a superstitious fear, sought to avoid the fight: Yet Caesar skirmished with them every day and sometime followed them to their Forts, and little Hills where they lay, whereby he so provoked them that at last they came down with great fury to fight. In this Battel he overcame them, and pursued them very eagerly, making a great slaughter of them even to the River of Rhine, filling all the Fields with dead Bodies, and spoiles. Ariovistus himself flying speedily got over the River, and escaped with some few of his men: At this Battel there were slain about eighty thousand Germans.

After this Battel Caesar left his Army to winter amongst the Sequanes, and himself thinking of the affairs of Rome, His Policy▪ returned over the Alps to a place about the River Po: whilst he lay there he laboured to make Friends at Rome: and when many came to visit him there, he granted all their suits, and sent them back, some with liberal rewards, and others with large promises, whereby he engaged them to him.

During all the time of Caesars great conquests in Gaul, Pompey did not consider how Caesar conquered the Gauls with the Roman weapons, and wan the Romans with the Riches of the Gauls. At this time Caesar being informed that the Belgae who were the most War-like Nation of all the Gauls, He overcomes the Belgae. were all up in Arms and had raised a very great Power, he presently made towards them with all possible speed; and found them overrunning and [Page] plundering the neighbour Countries and confederates of the Romans, wherefore he gave them Battel, and overthrew their chiefest Army, and slew so many of them that the Lakes and Rivers were died with their blood, and filled with their dead Bodies, that the Romans passed over on foot upon them: After this overthrow, such of them as dwelt near the Sea yielded themselves: and from thence he conducted his Army against the Nervians, the stoutest Souldiers of all the Belgae. These dwelling in a Woody Country, had conveyed their Wives, Children and Goods into a very great Forrest, remote from their Enemies, and being above eighty thousand fighting men, they watching their opportunity, set upon Caesar when his Army was out of order, and little expecting them. At the first charge they brake the Roman Horsemen, and encompassing the seventh and twelfth Legions, they slew all the Captains, and had not Caesar himself with his Shield on his Arme, run amongst them, making a lane as he went, and the tenth Legion, seeing him in that danger, followed him with all speed, there had not a Roman escaped alive that day. But looking upon Caesars Valour, his men fought desperately, even beyond their abilities, and yet could they not make the Nervi fly,A Battel. but they fought it out bravely till most of them were slain in the Field, five hundred only of them escaping. Yet was it a bloody Battel to the Romans, for that of four hundred Gentlemen, and Counsellers of Rome, there were but three saved.

The Senate of Rome made great signs of joy for these Victories, by sacrificing to the Gods, Plays, &c. and as Caesars fame was encreased hereby, so he wan upon the Peoples love: And always, when his affairs would permit, he used to Winter by the River Po, to give direction about his affairs at Rome. And truly not only such as sued for Offices at Rome, obtained them by Caesars money, and therefore imployed all their power to promote his Interest, but the chiefest also of the Nobility,His Policy. went to Luke unto him, insomuch as at one time there have been seen before his Gates, one hundred and twenty Sergeants carrying Rods and Axes before the Magistrates that have waited upon him, and two hundred Senators besides. Here they held a Councel, wherein it was agreed, that Pompey and Crassus should again be chosen Consuls for the year following: and that Caesar should have more money delivered him to pay his Army, and that his Government should be prorogued for five years longer.

Then Caesar returning into Gaul to his Army, found there a great War begun For two Potent Nations of the Germans, having passed over the River of Rhine to conquer new Lands, Caesar fought with them, which himself thus discribeth: These Barbarous People (saith he) after they had sent Ambassadours to me to desire peace, contrary to the Law of Armes, came and set upon me as I travelled by the way, insomuch as eight hundred of their men overthrew five thousand of my Horse-men, who nothing at all expected their comming, and going on to describe their farther proceedings, he saith, that they again sent Ambassadours to him to mock him, whom he kept Prisoners, and then setting upon the Enemies, who were about four hundred thousand Persons, he slew most of them, saying a few that flying gat back over the River of Rhine and so escaped.He overcomes the Germans. Caesar, taking this occasion, and being ambitious to have the honour of being the first Roman that ever passed this River with an Army, he built a Bridg over it, though the River were very broad, and ran with a violent stream, and especially there where he built the Bridg: and the Barbarians casting great Trees into the River, they were carried down with such violence that by their great blows they did sore shake the Posts of the Bridg, to prevent which, and to abate the fury of the stream, Caesar caused a Pile to be made a good way above the Bridg, which was forcibly rammed into the bottom of the River, so that in ten days space [Page] he had finished his Bridg of goodly Carpenters work: A very rare invention as could be possibly devised.

Then passing his Army over this Bridg,He passes over the Rhine. he found none that durst fight with him: For the Suevians who were the most War-like People of the Germans, had retired themselves and Goods into great Valleys, Bogs, Woods, and Forrests. Caesar therefore having burnt up the Enemies Country, and confirmed the League with the confederates of the Romans, he returned back into Gaul. About this time also he made a Journey into England, being the first that sailed the Western Ocean with an Army,And went into England. and that passed through the Atlantick Sea to make War in this great and Famous Island, and was the first that enlarged the Roman Empire beyond the habitable Earth. For he twice passed the Seas out of France into England, where he fought many Battels with the Brittans, in which he did more hurt to the Enemies, than enrich his own men: therefore this War had not such success as he expected, which made him only to take pledges of the King and to impose a yearly Tribute upon him, and so returned back into Gaul.

He was no sooner landed there,Julias death. but he met with Letters which advertised from Rome of the death of his Daughter, the Wife of Pompey, for which they both of them were very sorrowful: and by this means the league betwixt Pompey and Caesar was broken, to the great prejudice of the Commonwealth. Caesars Army being very great, he sent it into several Garrisons for their Winter Quarters, and returned into Italy, as he used to do. During which time all Gaul rebelled again, and had raised great Armies, who were led by one Ambiorix. These did first set upon the Garrisons of Catta, and Titurius, whom they slew together with all their men. Then they went with sixty thousand men, and besieged the Garrison which Quintus Cicero had in charge, and had almost taken it by storm, Ciceroes Souldiers being all wounded, yet they shewed such valour that they did more than men in their own defence. This news comming to Caesar, who was far off, he returned with all possible speed, and levying seven thousand Souldiers, he hasted to relieve Cicero that was in great distress. The Gauls that besieged him, hearing of Caesars comming, arose, and went to meet him, making little account of his small number: Caesar to entrap them, still drew back, making as though he fled from them, but still lodging in places of safety, and commanded his men that they should not stir out to skirmish with them, but rather to raise the ramparts of his Camp, and to fortifie the Gates, as men affraid, that their Enemies might the less esteem them: But at length, he took the opportunity when the Enemies came in a disordered manner to assault his Camp,He beats the French. and then sallying out, he routed, and slew a great number of them.

This Act suppressed all the rebellions of the Gauls in those parts: Himself also went in the midst of Winter in those places where they did Rebel: for now he had a new supply out of Italy of three whole Legions to fill up the rooms of those that were slain, of which Pompey lent him two, and the other Legion was raised about the River Po. Shortly after there brake out the greatest and most dangerous War that ever he had in Gaul, which had been long designed by the chiefest and most War-like People in all that Country, who had a very great Army, leavying multitudes of men, and much Treasure to fortifie their strong holds: The Country where they were was very hard to come into, especially then in the Winter when the Rivers were high, and the Woods and Forrests covered with Snow, the Meddows drowned with Floods, and the Snow so deep that no ways could be discerned, all which might have discouraged Caesar from setting upon them; the rather, because many Nations joyned in this conspiracy, of whom the chief were the Vernians, and the Carnutes, who had chosed Vercingentorix for their Captain. He divided his Army into divers places, under divers Captains, [Page] and drawn into his assistance all the Nations as far as to the Adriatick Sea: So that if he had tarried a little longer till Caesar had been ingaged in his Wars with Pompey, he had put all Italy into great fear and danger.

But Caesar, who knew his advantages, and how to take the best opportunities, as soon as he heard of this Rebellion,The French rebel. he hasted towards them, intending to let them know, that they had to do with an Army that was invincible, and which they could not possibly withstand, seeing they had marched with such speed in so hard a Winter. This made them wonder when they saw him burning and destroying their Country, when they thought him far off. Such Towns and strong Forts as yielded to him, he received to mercy. But the Hedui, who used to be stiled the Brethren of the Romans, taking Arms against him, much discouraged his men: wherefore Caesar went through the Country of the Lingones to enter into Burgundy, who were consederates with the Romans. Thither the Enemies followed him, endeavouring to compass him in on every side. Caesar tarried their coming, and then fighting with them a long time,Caesar overcomes them. he at last overcame them. Of those which fled, most of them together with their King got into the City of Alexia, which Caesar presently besieged, though it seemed inexpugnable, both in regard of the hight of the Walls, and the many hands to defend them. During this Siege Caesar fell into a very great danger: For three hundred thousand of the best Souldiers amongst the Gauls came against him, besides those within the City, who were seventy thousand fighting men, so that finding himself to be shut in between two such mighty Armies, he was faign to fortifie himself with two Walls: One against those within Alexia, and the other against those without. And truly the Battel which he wan at this place, gat him more honour than any other that ever he fought before. For in this extream danger he shewed more Valour and Wisdom, and courage than in any other. And this was wonderful, that they within the City never heard of their Friends that came to assist them, till Caesar had overcome them: Yea, Caesars own men that guarded the Wall against the City, knew nothing of the Battel till they heard the cries and lamentations of those in the City, when they saw the Romans bring into their Camp such a number of Shields glistering with Gold and Silver, such store of bloody Corslets, and Armour, such a deal of Plate, and movables, and such a number of Tents, and Pavilions of the Gauls which the Romans had gotten of their spoils. Thus the greatest part of this huge Army were slain: and as for those within the City, when they had done and received much hurt, they at last yielded, and Vercingentorix, went out of the City richly Armed, and his Horse furnished with brave, and glittering Caparisons, and rode about Caesar who sat in his Chair of State. Then allighting, he took off the Caparisons, and stript himself of his Armour, and prostrated himself on the Ground, and then went and sat down at Caesars feet, speaking never a word. Caesar after a while committed him to Prison to be led in his Triumph at Rome.

Now Caesar had long since projected the distruction of Pompey, Non vult Caesarve priorem, Pompeiusve parem. as Pompey had done the like for him. Nothing kept Caesar from being the Greatest Person but Pompey the Great, and nothing kept Pompey from being supream but Caesar. Hitherto Pompey had set light by Caesar, thinking that he could crush him when he pleased: But Caesar went more cunningly to work: for to attain his end, he procured to be sent into Gaul, where he exercised and and hardened his Army, and by his valiant deeds purchased fame and honour: so that now he lacked nothing but an occasion to put his design in practice, which Pompey partly gave him, and the iniquity of the times much furthered it. For such as sued for honours and Offices, bought the voices of the People shamefully, who therefore came to the Market-place, not to give their voices, but with Bows, and Slings, and Swords: and the Assembly seldom brake up, [Page] but the Pulpit for Orations was besprinkled with the blood of the slain,Disorders at Rome. so that many Wise men believed, that there was no other cure of these evils but by putting the supream authority into one mans hand; and many wished that Pompey were the man: But he seemed to decline it, though cunningly underhand he laboured to be chosen Dictator.

Cato smelling his drift, perswaded the Senate rather to make him sole Consul, thereby to satisfy his ambition:Pompey sole Consul. This was done accordingly, and the time also for the Government of his Provinces was prorogued: they allowed him also a thousand Talents yearly out of the publick Treasury wherewith to pay his Souldiers. Hereupon Caesar took occasion to send his men to Rome, to sue in his name for the Consulship, and for the prolonging of his Government. This was too indiscreetly opposed by Marcellus and Lentulus, and many things were spoken in his disgrace. They took away also the freedom from the Collonies which Caesar had granted them. And when Marcellus was Consul, he caused one of those Senators to be whipt, saying, that he gave him those marks, that he might be known to be no Citizen of Rome; and bad him go and tell Caesar of it.

Shortly after Caesar opened his Treasures which he had got in Gaul, and gave it freely among the Magistrates of Rome. He set Curio the Tribune, cleer out of debt: He gave to the Consul Paul fifteen hundred Talents, wherewith he built a stately Theater. Pompey now beginning to fear, laboured to have a successour sent to Caesar, and withal sent for his two Legions, which Caesar returned to him, bountifully rewarding every Souldier: and they which brought these Legions back, disgraced Caesar all they could, and told Pompey that if Caesars Souldiers did but once see him, they would all forsake Caesar and cleave to him.Pompey deluded. This made Pompey more secure, that neglected to prepare for War. One of Caesars Captains coming to Rome, and moving the Senate to have his government prorogued, they delaying their answer, he laid his hand upon his Sword, and said, Sith you will not grant it him, this shall give it him. Caesar seemed to be very reasonable in what he requested, For he said, that whilst they required him to lay down Arms for fear of a Tyranny, and yet permitted Pompey to keep his, they went about to establish a Tyranny.

Curio in the name of Caesar moved before all the People, that both should be commanded to lay down Arms, which motion was entertained with great joy and clapping of hands by the People, who threw Nose-gays, and flowers upon him for it.Factions [...] Rome. Then Anthony one of the Tribunes, brought a Letter from Caesar, and read it before the People in spite of the Consuls, wherein he desired that they would grant him Gaul on this side the Alps, and Illyria with two Legions only, and then he would desire no more: But Scipio the Father in Law of Pompey, moved in the Senate, that if Caesar did not dismiss [...] Army by a day appointed, that then he should be proclaimed an Enemy to Rome, Marcellus also added, that they must use force of Arms and not Arguments against a Thief; whereupon the Senate rose without determining any thing, and every one put on his mourning apparel as in the time of a common calamity. Cicero being newly come from his Government in Cilicia, took much pains to reconcile them together, and perswaded Pompey all he could, who told him that he would yield to whatsoever he desired, so he would let him alone with his Army: But Lentulus the Consul shamefully drave Curio and Anthony out of the Senate, who were in such danger that they were faign to flie out of Rome to Caesar, disguised in a Carriers coat. This gave Caesar great advantage, and much incensed his men, when they saw and heard how his Friends were abused.

Caesar at this time had about him but five thousand Foot, and three thousand [Page] Horse,Caesar goes against Pompey. having left the rest of his Army on the other side of the Alps, to be brought after him by his Lieutenants: Judging it better suddenly to steal upon them at Rome, then to assail them with his whole Army, which would require time, and give his Enemies opportunity to strengthen themselves against him. He therefore commanded his Captains to go before, and to take in the City of Ariminum (a great City on this side the Alps) with as little bloodshed as might be. Then committing the rest of those Souldiers which he had with him, to Hortensius, he spent a whole day in seeing the Sword Players exercise before him. At Night he went unto his lodging, where having bathed himself a little, he came into the Hall, and made merry with those whom he had bidden to Supper. Then rising from the Table, he prayed his Guests to be merry, and he would come again to them presently: howbeit he had secretly before directed his most trusty Friends to follow him: not all together, but some on way, and some another. Himself in the mean time took a Coach that he had hired, and pretending at first to go another way, he suddenly turned towards Ariminum.

But when he came to the River of Rubicorn, which divides the hither Gaul from Italy, he suddenly made a stop (for if he once passed that, there could be no hope of peace) considering with himself of what importance this passage was, and what miseries would ensue upon it. Some say that he spake thus to his Friends: Doubtless if I forbear to pass over this River, it will be the beginning of my ruin; if I pass it, the ruin will be general: Then turning towards the River. he said, it is yet in our power to turn back, but if we pass the River we must make our way with our Weapons. Some say, that Caesar standing thus doubtful, he was encouraged by the apparition of a man of very great stature, piping upon a Reed, whereupon many of the Souldiers and some Trumpeters went neer to hear him, and that he catching one of their Trumpets, leaped into the River, sounding to the Battel with a mighty blast, and so passed on to the farther side of the River: Whereupon Caesar, with a furious resolution, cryed out, Let us go whether the Gods, and the injurious dealing of our Enemies do call us. The Dice are cast. I have set up my Rest, Come what will of it: He passes Rubicon. After which he set spurs to his Horse, and passed the River his Army following him.

Caesar having passed the River and drawn his Army together, he made an Oration to them, shedding some tears, and tearing his Garment down the Breast, laying before them the equity of his cause, and craving their assistance. To whom, having with a general applause and consent made answer; that they were ready to obey his will, he presently marched on and came the next day to Ariminum, upon which he seized. The like he did to all the Towns and Castles as he passed on, till he came to Corfinium which was held by Domitius, who in a factious tumult had been nominated for his successour in the Government of Gaul. This being taken, he pardoned the Souldiers, and Inhabitants, and used Domitius kindly, giving him leave to depart (who went straight to Pompey) by which clemency he purchased to himself much honour. These thirty Cohorts he kept with him.

Caesars resolution being known at Rome, it troubled Pompey, amazed the Senate, and terrified the common People. Pompey now found himself deceived, who before could not believe that Caesar would thrust himself into so great danger, or that he could be able to raise sufficient forces to resist him: but the success proved otherwise. For though Pompey had authority from the Consuls and Senate to leavy Souldiers, to call home his Legions, and to send Captains for the defence of those Cities in Italy by which Caesar should pass, yet all this was not sufficient to resist his fury; and the power that he brought with him. The fame of Caesars coming increasing daily, Pompey, [Page] with the whole Senate left Rome, Pompey flies and the Senate. going to Capua, and from thence to Brundusium, a Sea Town seated at the mouth of the Gulph of Venice, where he ordered the Consuls to pass to Dyrrhachium, (now Durazzo) a Sea Town of Macedonia, there to unite all their Forces, being out of hope to resist Caesar in Italy, who had already taken Corfinium, where, having drawn Domitius's thirty Cohorts to serve him, he marched on, and hearing that Pompey and the Consuls were at Brundusium, he hasted towards them with his Legions with all possible speed. But Pompey, Caesar pursues him. though he had fortified the Town sufficiently for his defence, yet when Caesar began to invest the Town, he imbarked himself and his men in the night time, and so passed over to Dyrrachium, to the Consuls. Thus Caesar injoyed Italy without opposition, yet was he doubtful what to resolve on: He would gladly have followed Pompey but wanted Shipping, and it being Winter, he knew that Ships could not be procured so soon as was requisite: and considering with all, that it was not safe to leave an Enemy behind him, which might cause an alteration in France, or Italy; he resolved first to go into Spain, which held for Pompey, and where he had his best Legions under the command of Petreius and Afranius, saying to his Friends, Let us go against an Army which wants a Captain, and afterwards we will go against a Captain that wants an Army. For Pompeys Souldiers in Spain were very valiant, and had been long exercised in Armes, but their Commanders were neither Politick, nor expert in War. But on the contrary, Pompey was a most Wise and Valiant Captain, but his Souldiers were newly levyed, and of small experience.

Caesar returning from Brundusium, He is Lord of all Italy, And went to Rome. in sixty days space became Lord of all Italy, and when he came to Rome, the People were in great fear, remembring the miseries they had suffered under Sylla: But Caesar using his accustomed clemency, hurt no man, high nor low: He called the Senators together which remained there, comforting them with mild and good words; and laying the whole fault upon Pompey, he sought to justifie his own cause, declaring how much he desired Peace, with all, requesting that Ambassadours might be sent to Pompey to procure the same: And causing himself present to be chosen Consul, he opened the Treasury, though Metellus, one of the Tribunes of the People, opposed him, and the Treasure which he took from thence, which was very great, he distributed amongst his Souldiers.

Then was he desirous to go into Spain, first taking order for the civil Government: and making choice of the Legions which should go with him, he left the rest in Brundusium, and Otranto, and other strong places upon the Sea Coast, to keep Pompey from landing if he should attempt to retùrn into Italy. He also made Hortensius, and Dolabella his Captains to provide Shipping to be brought into the Port of Brundusium, there to be in a readiness against his return from Spain: Quintus Valerius he sent with a Legion into Sardinia against Marcus Cotta which held the same for Pompey. To Sicily he sent Curius, and Marcus Cato, with direction that having taken the same, he should pass over into Africk. Lepidus he sent to Rome, as Prefect thereof, and Mark Anthony he made Governour of all Italy: And resolving to leave Lucinius Crassus in France, He went into Spain. with his accustomed celerity he went on his Journey, finding no resistance, neither in Italy nor France, till he came to Marcelleis, which held for Pompey, This City he besieged, and to avoid loss of time, left Decius Brutus, and Caius Trebonius with sufficient Forces, who indured much in the siege: himself hasted into Spain, where, being expected, Afranius and Petreius attended him with four Roman Legions, and the aid of their Friends, between whom, and Caesar the War continued for some while, chiefly about the City of Lerida.

At first Caesar was in great danger and much distressed chiefly for want of [Page] Victuals, as also for that the Winter was come on, which troubled him with the swelling of Rivers, before and after which, there passed many great skirmishes between the two Armies.And conquered Pompeys men. And Caesar, watching his opportunities, at last brought his adversaries to such distress that they perished with hunger, and were forced to come to a composition, which was, that the Legions should have liberty to go whither they pleased: and so part of them took pay of Caesar, the rest departed, and Petreius, and Afranius went to Pompey.

This War being ended, and the Spring come, Caesar, that he might leave no Enemy behind him, marched into the Province of Betica (now Andaluzia) with part of his forces, commanding the rest to march whither he had appointed, and there to stay for him, because Marcus Varro held that Province for Pompey against Caesar with one good Legion: But he, not daring to oppose Caesar, And other places. delivered up the Legion to him, together with that Country, and all was pacified there. From thence Caesar went to Cordova, where he called a Parliament of all the States of that Province, in which he highly commended them, and those of Sivil for taking his part, and so marching forward, he came to the Isle of Cadez, where having gotten Ships in readiness, he left Quintus Cassius with four Legions in that Province, and so embarking, he went to Taragona, commanding his Legions to march by Land thither, where having settled his affairs, he advanced with his Army towards Narbona, He takes Marcelleis. and from thence to Marcelleis, which now yielded to him, having endured many calamities during the Siege: Caesar respecting the antiquity and fame of this City, would not destroy it, nor the Inhabitants, but leaving a strong Garrison in it, he ordered his Legions to march for Italy, and himself, with a sufficient guard, and some of his Friends took passage by Sea to Rome.

Though all things succeeded thus well with Caesar, His Captains had ill success. yet some of his Captains had ill success. For Caius Antonius, whom he left with Dolabella for to command his Navy, was overthrown and taken Prisoner in the Gulph of Venice by Octavius, Lieutenant to Pompey. In which overthrow this was very remarkable: Anthony was faign to put his men into long Boats for want of Ships, which were taken by a Strategem as in a toil, by the Pompeians, with Ropes under the Water. One of them which had in it a thousand valiant young men, being thus ensnared, was assaulted by the Enemies whole Army, against which they defended themselves bravely from morning till night, and in the end being oppressed with the multitude, by the perswasion of Valteius, their Collonel, they all slew one another, rather than they would fall into the Enemies hand. Dolabella was likewise overthrown near to the Island of Corcyra (now Corfu:) and Curius, who went with his two Legions into Africk, though at first he had good success, yet afterwards he was overthrown, and most of his men slain by Juba, King of Mauritania, Pompeys Friend.

Caesar being come to Rome and made Dictator, new Consuls were chosen, whereof he being one, layed aside his Dictatorship, and provided Praetors for the Provinces as himself pleased. He sent Marcus Lepidus into Spain: Aulus Albinus into Sicily: Sextus Peduceius into Sardinia; and Decius Brutus into France; and taking such further order as he thought good, he departed from Rome in December towards Brundusium, whither he commanded all his Forces to march, there to take passage for Macedonia, where he knew that Pompey staid with his Army: who all that whole year that Caesar spent in his journey to Spain, Pompey prepares for War. busied himself to provide a Navy wherein to return into Italy, and in gathering Treasure, and levying Souldiers, having made an exceeding great provision of all things. For there came unto him, Ships, money, and men from sundry Kingdoms and Provinces both of Asia, and Greece: as from [Page] Syria, Pontus, Bithynia, Cilicia, Phoenicia, Cappadocia, Pomphilia, Armenia Minor, Aegypt, Greece, Thessaly, Baeotia, Achaia, Epirus, Athens, Lacedemonia, the Isles of Creet, and Rhodes, and from many other Countries. There came also to his aid King Deiotarus, and Aribarzanes, of all which together with those which he brought with him from Italy, he compounded a very great Army by Land, and a very great Fleet of Ships and Gallies by Sea.

It being now the depth of Winter, Pompey presuming it improbable, if not impossible for Caesar to pass the Seas to him; having also intelligence that Caesar was in Rome, he disposed of his Army to their Winter Quarters in Macedonia and Thessaly; and himself retired farther from the Sea, commanding his Sea-Captains (of whom Marcus Bibulus was chief) to guard the Sea-coast. But Caesar knowing that in the speedy execution consisted his greatest hopes of Victory, and that occasion once lost could hardly be recovered, he departed from Rome, and came to Brundusium, though all his Legions were not as yet come to him. There he embarked seven of his best Legions in such ships as were ready, sending a Command to the rest which were coming, to hasten to Brundusium, whither he would send for them with all possible speed.Caesar goes against him. Now Brindez. And so departing, he crossed the Seas with a prosperous gale of Wind, and the third day after arrived upon the coast of Macedonia, before Pompey had any intelligence of his embarking. There he safely landing his men in dispite of Pompeys Captains, and commanded his Ships and Gallies presently to return to Brundisium to fetch the rest of his Army. Presently after his first landing, he seized upon the Cities of Appallonia, and Erico, driving from thence Lucius Torquatus, and Lucius Straberius, who held them for Pompey.

Pompey hearing of Caesars arrival, sent for his Troops which were neerest hand with all speed possible, with whom he marched towards Dirrachium, where his Victuals, ammunition, and other provisions for the War lay, lest Caesar should go and surprise them, which indeed he attempted but in vain, the situation of the place making it inexpugnable.

Pompey being come, their Camps were lodged within a few furlongs each of other,Skirmishes betwixt them. where he passed many adventurous skirmished, and also some Treaties of Peace, offered by Caesar, but rejected by Pompey, so consident he was of his own power. In the interim Caesar daily expected the coming of the other Legions, who staying longer than he expected, he resolved in Person, with three confident Servants, secretly to embark himself in a Brigandine, and to pass that streight of the Sea and to fetch them, hoping to perform the same without the knowledg of any. And accordingly, passing down the River to the Sea, he found it so troublesome and tempestuous that the Master of his Brigandine (not knowing whom he carried) durst not adventure forth, but would have returned. Then Caesar discovering his face, said, Perge avdactèr: Caesarum enim fers, & fortunam Caesaris:Caesars rashness. Bear up bravely, and boldly against the Winds and Waves: for thou carriest Caesar, and all his Fortunes. The Master herewith encouraged, strove all that possibly he could to proceed in his Voyage: but the force of the Tempest was so great, and the Wind so contrary, that do what possibly they could, they were driven back again.

When Caesars Army heard of these passages, they much wondred, grieved and were troubled at it: Commending him more for his Valour, than for his Wisdom: But within few days after M. Anthony arrived with four of those Legions which were left behind in Italy, presently returning the Ships back for the rest. Anthony after some adventures, joyned with Caesars Army near to Dirrachium where we lately left him. Frequent skirmishes still continued between the two Armies, and many were slain on both sides, and one day the skirmish [Page] was so hot, supplies being sent from both sides, that it almost came to a just Battel,Caesar is beaten. wherein Caesars men were so beaten, that they fled before the Enemies, and could not be made to stand by any intreaties, or menaces, till they were come into their Camp, which they had strongly fortified: yet many durst not trust to that, but fled out of it: But Pompey either because he imagined their flight to be faigned to draw him into an Ambush, or because he thought there needed no more to be done, and that Caesar could no more resist him, he neglected to prosecute his Victory, causing a retreat to be sounded without assaulting Caesars Camp, which, probably, he might have taken, and made an end of the War that day. Whereupon Caesar said to his Friends: Truly this day had ended the War, if our Enemies had had a Captain that had known how to overcome.

At this time Caesar lost a great number of his men, amongst whom were four hundred Roman Knights, ten Tribunes (or Collonels) and thirty two Centurions (or Captains) and his Enemies took from him thirty two Ensigns. Upon this Victory Pompey sent news thereof to divers parts of the World, holding himself for an absolute Conquerour. Caesar much blamed some of his Captains and Ensign beàrers for their cowardize, and his Army were so grieved and ashamed, that they much importuned him to lead them forth again to Battel: But he thought it not fit so soon to lead them forth against a Victorious Army.Caesars policy. He therefore sent his sick and wounded men to the City of Apolonia, and departed by night with as great silence as could be from the place where he was, and marched towards Thessaly, intending there to refresh and encourage his Army, and to draw his Enemies farther from the Sea coast, where their chief strength lay, and where their Camp was well fortified, and victualled, or at least he intended to attempt the overthrow of Scipio, who (as he heard) was coming to joyn with Pompey.

Pompey finding Caesar was departed, followed him for some few days; and then taking Councel what to do,Pompeys good resolution. he resolved to leave a lufficient Navy to guard the Seas, and with the rest to return into Italy, and to seize upon it, together with France and Spain, and afterwads to go against Caesar: But the Roman Lords that were with him, and the importunity of his unskilful Captains and Souldiers, forced him to alter his determination, and presently to pursue Caesar, who made an Alt in the Fields of Pharsalia, which are in Thessaly, making his retreat with so much prudence, and in so good order, that upon all occasions that were offered he ever had the better; till at length seeing his men full of resolution and courage, he resolved no longer to defer the Fight. Concerning which Battel: the ordering, and event of it:Pompey beaten and slain. the flight of Pompey into Egypt, and how basely, and barbarously he was murthered there, see it before in the Life of Pompey the Great.

Julius Caesar having obtained this great and glorious Victory, used therein his accustomed Clemency,Caesars clemency. not suffering any Roman either to be slain or hurt after the Battel was ended, but pardoned all those that were either taken in the Fight, or found in the Camp, amongst whom was Marcus Tullius Cicero. After which,He pursues Pompey. being informed which way Pompey was fled, he pursued him with the lightest, and swiftest of his Army, and in the way subduing all the Cities, he at last came to the Sea side, where he gathered together all the Ships and Gallies that possibly he could, together with those whom Cassius had brought, he therein shipped as many of his men as they could contain, and passed into the lesser Asia, where, being advertised that Pompey had been in Cyprus, he presumed that he was gone into Aegypt; wherefore he steered the same course, taking with him two Legions of old Souldiers only.He comes into Aegypt. When he arrived at Alexandria, he understood that Pompey presuming upon the many benefits, and good entertainment [Page] which the Father of this King Ptolomy had received in his House, had sent to this Ptolomy to harbour and assist him: which accordingly the King promised, and Pompey coming upon his safe conduct, in a small Boat, was by the false Kings commandment basely murthered, thinking thereby to win the favour of Caesar. He understood likewise that Cornelia the Wife of Pompey, and his Son Sextus Pompeius were fled from thence in the same ship wherein they came.

Caesar being landed, and received into the City, they brought him for a present the Head of the Great Pompey; but he turned away and would not see it, and when they brought him Pompeys Ring with his Seal of Arms, he wept,Vanity of vanities. considering the end and success of the great adventures and properties of Pompey, who with such honour and fame had Triumphed three times, and been so many times Consul in Rome: and had obtained so many Victories abroad.

When Caesar was landed in AEgypt, he found the Country imbroiled in Civil Wars: there being great discord between young King Ptolomy, and his Sister Cleopatra, about the division and Inheritance of that Kingdom, wherein Julius Caesar (as being a Roman Consul) took upon him to be an Arbitrator. For which cause, or because their guilty consciences accused them for the treacherous murther of Pompey, Fotinus the Eunuch, who had contrived the said murther, and Achillas, who had been the actor of it, fearing that Caesar inclined to favour Cleopatra, sent for the Kings Army that lay near the City, consisting of twenty thousand good Souldiers, purposing to do by Caesar as they had done by Pompey, so that within a few days, there began between Caesar and his small Army, both in the City, and in the Harbour where the Ships and Gallies lay, the most cruel, and dangerous encounter that ever Caesar met with:His Wars i [...] Aegypt, for he was often forced to fight in his own Person, both within the City (whereof the Enemies held the greater part) and also in the Harbour with his Ships, and was sometimes in so great peril and danger, that he was forced to leap out of the Boat into the Water, and by swimming to get one of the Gallies;His danger. at which time he held his Commentaries in one hand above Water, and carry his Robe in his teeth, and to swim with the other hand. But when his other Forces were come to him from Asia, and other parts, he at the end of nine months (for so long these Wars lasted) became Victorious,His Victory. as in all other his enterprises he had been, and the young King Ptolomy was slain in fight. In this War Caesar did such exploits, and behaved himself so gallantly, that for the same only he well deserved the fame and name of a brave Captain.

The Pride of the Aegyptians being thus tamed, Caesar put to death the murtherers of Pompey, and established the fair Cleopatra, the Queen and Governess of Aegypt, whom, during his stay there, he intertained for his Friend, and had a Son by her called Caesarion. And when he had quitted and settled all things in Aegypt, He passes into Asia. he departed thence into Asia, and travelled through Syria (now Soria) being informed, that during his troubles in Aegypt, King Pharnaces, the Son of that mighty King Methridates, thought it a fit time, whilst the Romans were embroiled in Civil Wars, to recover what his Father had lost: For which end having overthrown Domitius, whom Caesar had sent to govern those parts, and having taken by force of Arms the Provinces of Bithynia, and Cappadocia, expelling thence King Ariobarzanes (a Friend and Subject of Rome) and beginning to do the like in Armenia the less, which King Deiotarus had subjected to the Romans: Caesar (I say) being informed hereof, went with his Army sooner than Pharnaces imagined, though he expected him, and had intelligence of his appproach; so that in few days they came to a Battel, in which the [Page] King was soon overthrown,Overcomes Pharnaces. and put to slight, with great slaughter of his People, yet himself escaped.

Caesar was very joyful for this Victory, because of his earnest desire to return to Rome; where he knew that many scandals were raised, and many insolencies were committed for want of his presence: He knew also that Pompeys eldest Son had seized upon a great part of Spain, and had raised great Forces of those which Marcus Varro had left there, and of his Fathers Troops. He also understood, that in Africa many Principal Romans, who had escaped from the Battel of Pharsalia, were gathered together, whereof M. Cato (surnamed Uticensis) was the chief, and Scipio, Pompeys Father in Law, and that these went thither with the greatest part of the Ships and Galleys which belonged to Pompey, and with the greatest power that they were able to leavy; and that joyning with Juba King of Mauritania, they had subdued all that Country, and had a great Army in a readiness to oppose him, having chosen Scipio for their General, because that Cato would not take that office upon him, and for that the Name of Scipio had been so fortunate in Africa.

Caesar having intelligence of all these things, within the space of a few days, with great celerity and diligence recovered all that Pharnaces had usurped, and chasing him out of Portus he regained all those Countries: and so leaving Celius Minucius for General, with two Legions to guard that Province, pacifying the controversies and contentions in the rest, and rewarding the Kings, and Tetrachs which continued firm in their Leagues and amity with the Romans, without any longer aboad, he departed out of Asia, and in a short space arrived in Italy, He comes to Rome. and so passed to Rome, within little more than a year after he went thence, which was a very short time for the performance of so great matters, and so long a Journey.

Presently after his comming to Rome, he caused himself to be chosen Consul the third time, and reforming (so much as the time and his leasure would permit) all disorders in Rome, being troubled and not able to endure that his Enemies should possess Africk, with great expedition he prepared all things necessary, and from Rome took his way towards Africk, commanding his Army to follow him.He passes into Africk. First he went into Italy, from whence taking Ship, he passed over into Africk, and though neither his Navy, nor his Army arrived with him, trusting to the valour of those that he had with him, and his own good Fortune, he landed with small Forces, near to the City of Adrumentum, and from thence marched to another City called Leptis, into which he was received, and after some conflicts that passed, his Legions being come to him, and certain other Troops of Horse, and Companies of Foot, he began the War which continued four months. He first began with Petreius and Lubienus; and then with Scipio and King Ju [...]a, who brought to those Wars eight thousand men, the one half whereof were Horse.

In this War were many encounters and Battels, in which Caesar was in great danger: but at last (his good Fortune, still attending him) he overcame them in a great Battel, wherein there were slain of the Enemies ten thousand,He overcomes Scipio. and Caesar remained Master of the Field, and in a short time after, subjected all the Country to him. Scipio, and all the chief Captains, with him died sundry deaths, and Juba escaping by flight from the Battel, finding no place of security, Afranius and he resolved to dye fighting one against the other, in which combate, King Juba being the stronger man, slew Asranius, and then commanded one of his Salves to kill him, and so he died desperately.

Marcus Cato, Cato kills himself. who was in the City of Utica, hearing that Caesar was marching thitherward, though he knew that he would not put him to death, but [Page] but rather had a desire to pardon him and to do him honour; yet, resolving neither to receive life nor honour from his Enemy, he slew himself: In whose death there passed many remarkable accidents recorded by Historians: Florus saith thus of it. Cato (saith he) hearing of the death of his Partners, he dallyed not at all, but joyfully hastened his end: For after he had embraced his Son, and his Friends and bad them good night, and then rested a while upon his bed, having first perused Plato's Book of the immortality of the Soul: then about the relieving of the first watch he got up, drew his Sword, and therewith thrust himself through: after which the Phisicians applied plaisters to his wounds, which he indured whilst they were in the room, but then he pulled them away, and the blood following abundantly, he left his dying hand even in the wound. Scipio, who had been General in this War, escaped also from the Battel by flight, entered into some Gallies, which being met with by Caesar Navy, that he might not fall into his Enemies hand, after he had given himself some wounds, he threw himself into the Sea, and so vvas drowned.

Caesar having obtained so great and absolute a Victory, spent some few days in settling and ordering the Provinces of Africa, making the Kingdom of Juba a Province,He returns to Rome. and then marched to Utica, vvhere he imbarked June the third, and came to the Isle of Sardinia, and after some short stay there, he arrived at Rome the tvventy fifth day of July. At his comming thither there vvere granted unto him four Triumphs:His Triumphs▪ First for his conquests and Victories in France, in vvhich vvere carried the Portraictures of the Rivers of Rhodanus, and the Rhine vvrought in Gold. The second Triumph vvas for the conquest of Aegypt, and of King Ptolomy, vvhere vvere set the River of Nilus, and the Pharus burning. The third vvas for the conquest of Pontus, and of King Pharnaces, vvherein, in regard of his speedy Victory, vvas placed a vvriting vvith these vvords, Veni, Vidi, Vici: I come, I savv, I overcame. The fourth Triumph vvas for the Province of Africa, vvherein King Jubas Son vvas led Captive: and in this Triumph vvere given Jevvels, and Armes to Octavius, Caesars Nephevv, vvho succeeded him in the Empire. As for the Battel vvherein he conquered Pompey, he vvould not Triumph, because it vvas against a Citizen of Rome.

These Triumphs being ended, he gave great revvards to his Souldiers, and entertained the People vvith Feasts, and bountiful gifts, and then caused himself to be chosen the fourth time, Consul. And so, to the end that there should be left no place wherein he would not be obeyed, he resolved to go for Spain, hearing that Gneius Pompeius, the Son of Pompey, was retired with the rest of the Army which had escaped out of Africk, to go to his Brother Sextus Pompeius, who was in possession of a great part of Spain, as we heard before, together with the famous Cities of Sivil, and Cordova, and many others of those parts: many Spaniards also comming to their aid.

Caesar in this Journey carryed with him his most valiant,He goes into Spain. and most experienced Souldiers, and made so good speed, that in few days space he arrived in Spain, in which Journey his Nephew Octavius followed him. Entering into Spain he came to the Province of Betica (now Andaluzia) where were Sextus Pompeius, with his Brother Gneius, and such Legions and Souldiers as they had gotten together; and there began betwixt Caesar and them a most cruel and bloody War, the end whereof was, that neer to the City of Munda, Caesar, and Gneius Pompeius (for Sextus was then at Cordova) joyned Battel,A cruel Battel. which was one of the most obstinate, and most cruel fights that ever was in the World. For Caesar being a most excellent Captain, and the Souldiers which he brought with him most brave and valiant men, and fleshed with so many Victories, held it out with great resolution; and on the other side, the bravery and courage of young Pompey and his men was such, and they fought in such manner, [Page] as Caesars Squadrons began to give ground, and were ready to forsake the Field, and at the very point to have been wholly overthrown: and the matter came to this issue, that Caesar was about to have slain himself because he would not see himself overcome. Yet taking a Target from one of his Souldiers, he rushed into the midst of his Enemres, saying with a loud voice, If ye be not ashamed, leave me and deliver me into the hands of these Boyes; For this shall be the last day of my Life and of your Honour: with which words, and his example, his Souldiers took heart in such manner, that recovering the ground which they had lost, the Battel became equal, which lasted almost a whole day without any sign of Victory to either party, sometimes seeming to incline to the one, sometimes to the other side; until at the length Caesar and his men did so great exploits, as that the evening being come, his Enemies began to faint, and fly,His Victory. and the Victory was apparently Caesars. There died of the Enemies above thirty thousand in this Battel, and Caesar lost above a thousand men of account besides common Souldiers.

Caesar esteemed so much of this Victory, and so gloried in the danger which he had escaped, that ever after he used to say, That in all other Battels he had fought for honour and Victory, and only that day he fought for his life. Young Pompey, after he had performed all the offices of a Prudent General and Valiant Souldier, was foreed to fly, and wandering through many places, was at last taken and slain by some of Caesars Friends, who carried his head to Caesar. His other Brother Sextus Pompeius, fled from Cordova, and afterwards forsook Spain: Caesar recovered Sivil, and Cordova, and all the rest of the Country; after which,He returns to Rome. ordering his affaires in Spain after his pleasure, he returned to Rome, and Triumphed for these Victories, which was his fifth and last Triumph.

Caesar now came to be the most mighty, the most redoubted, and the most highly esteemed man in the World,His power. having conquered and subdued the greatest part thereof, in as little time, as it might seem that another man might be able to travel through those Countries by reasonable Journeys. He then made himself perpetual Dictator, and so without opposition, he finished the making of himself the Soveraign Lord, and Monarch of the Empire of Rome, within less than five years after he first attempted the same. And this was the Original and beginning of the Roman Emperours. For Julius Caesar would not be called King (that Name being odious to the Romans above all things, ever since Kings were first driven from Rome) but contented himself to be called Perpetual Dictator, and Emperour, which Title was usually given to the Roman Generals upon their obtaining any signal Victory. But after Julius Caesar, all his successors took that Title, glorying to be called Emperour, which hath ever since been held for the highest Title, and Dignity in the World.

Caesar having now attained to that absolute power which he had so ambitiously sought after,His clemency, and Magnanimity. he shewed in all his Deportment much clemency, and Magnanimity, honouring and rewarding his Friends, and easily forgiving, and very cheerfully pardoning all those that had been his Adversaries: Thus he pardoned Brutus, Cassius, Cicero, Marcellus, and many others: Yea, some of them he admitted to his company, and private familiarity, and to Offices and Dignities; and amongst the many virtues wherewith he was endued, his clemency and liberality were most glorious. But all this prevailed not with the Romans to quench their desires after the recovery of their lost liberty, neither to asswage the hatred and malice conceived against him by his adversaries, as aft [...]rwards appeared.

And notwithstanding many were discontented, yet some for love, others for fear,Discontents arise. and out of dissimulation, both Senate and People, yea all in general gave him Names, preheminences and Titles of Honour, such as never had [Page] been given to any other man before him, neither ought to have been accepted by him; and many were the more offended, because they knew that he affected and desired them. They gave him the name of Emperour, Father, Restorer, and Preserver of his Country. They made him perpetual Dictator, and Consul for ten years: and perpetual Censor of their manners. His Statue was erected and set up amongst the Kings of Rome: and a Chair, and Throne of Ivory was set up for him in the Temple, and in the Senate House, and an high Throne in the Theater,Base flattery. and in the place where the Senators did use to sit. His Pictures and Statues were set up in the Temples, and in all publick places. Some Titles they gave him, and he accepted of, which were peculiar to the Gods. The month formerly called Quintile, they called Julius after his name. They also built, and consecrated Temples to him, as they did to Jupiter and the other Gods, and gave him certain Honours which they held proper for their Gods, and did him many other honours exceeding all measure.

Julius Caesar enjoying such honour and power, so that he had no equal, no second in the World with whom he might contend, it seemed that he would contend with himself, and attempt something wherein he might excel himself: For he was not contented with all the Victories which he had obtained, neither to have fought fifty several Battels, in all which he was Victorious, save in that one at Dyrrachium against Pompey: neither to have slain in the Wars and Battels which he fought a Million, ninety, and odd thousands of men, besides those that were slain in the civil Wars. But being of a most haughty mind,His great projects. he sought to do greater matters, if greater could be.

For first he resolved to pass into the East, there to conquer and subdue the fierce Nations of the Parthians, and to revenge the death of Marcus Crassus; and from thence to pass through Hyrcania, and other Countries till he should come to the Caspian Sea, and so through all the parts of Scithia, Asiatica; and passing the River Tanais, to return through Scithia into Europe, and in his retreat to come into Germany, and other Conntries bordering thereupon, conquering and subjecting all to the Roman Empire. For which end he presently caused to be levied in several places ten thousand Horsemen, and sixteen Legions of chosen Footmen, and appointing the time wherein he intended to begin his Journey, he commanded them to repair to their Rendevouz. He sought also not only to subdue all Nations, but to correct and reform even nature it self: For he purposed to have made an Island of Peloponnesus (now called Morea) by cutting the neck of land between the Egaean, and the Jonian Seas. He purposed also to have altered the courses of the River Tiber, and Anian, and to have made their new Channels, capable of bearing great Ships. He ordered the digging down and levelling many high Hills and Mountains, in Italy, and to dry up and drain great Lakes and Marishes therein. He corrected the computation of the year, reforming it according to the course of the Sun, and brought it into that order wherein it now is. He did the like about the course of the Moon, and her conjunctions and oppositions to the Sun: and this was attributed to him for Tyranny by those that hated him.

Many others things Caesar did, which were very remarkable, in reforming the Laws, customs, and Offices. He re-edified the ruined City of Carthage, in Africk, and sent thither Colonies, and Roman Citizens to Inhabit it: the like he did by Corinth. But all these works with his high conceits and undertakings, were prevented, by his unexpected, and immature Death, which within a few Days after ensued. A few men, and those unarmed bereft him of his Life, whom no former forces could resist. For five months only he lived as Soveraign Lord in Peace; when those in whom he reposed greatest trust conspired his Death.

[Page] Some say that Caesar was counselled to have a Guard about him alwayes; to which he answered, that he would have none: for that he had rather die once, than live continually in fear. They which conspired his death, were stirred up thereto, either out of hatred to his Person, or desire of Liberty, accounting him for a Tyrant: or out of suspition that he would have made himself a King, a thing in the highest degree hateful to the Romans: His Pride. and lastly, because he began to contemn others: For he used to say, that the Commonwealth was but a Voice and Name without a Body, or Substance; and that Sylla was a Fool for resigning his perpetual Dictatorship. All the whole Senate coming one Day to the Temple of Venus where he was, he sat still, and rose not up as formerly he used to do. His Friends also and Favourites began to report, that in the Books of the Sybils (which in Rome were had in great Veneration) it was written, that the Parthians could never be overcome but by a man that should have the Title of a King, and therefore he laboured that Caesar should take upon him that Title before his Parthian War; and though he seemed to be displeased at it, yet they suspected the contrary; and their suspition was encreased, for that, whereas the Tribunes of the People had caused a man to be imprisoned, who had set a Crown upon the Head of one of Caesars Statues, he was so incensed against the Tribunes that did it, that he deposed them from their Office:His dissimulation. And not long after, when Mark Anthony (who was his great favourite, and that year his fellow Consul) being at some publick Games, came to Caesar, and put a Crown upon his Head; though he threw it down, yet they all imagined, that Mark Anthony would not have presumed to have done it without his good liking; and that he did it but to prove the People how they would like it; these, and such like passages, gave them occasion to desire and design his Death.

They were also father encouraged hereunto, for that in sundry publick places, certain writings were set up, which did intice and animate them to conspire against him: as upon the Statue of Brutus, who in ancient times did chase the Kings out of Rome, were written these words, Would to God thou wert now living, Brutus. And upon the Image of Marcus Brutus, who then was Praetor, and descended from the former Brutus, were these words: Thou sleepest long, Brutus. Truly, thou art not Brutus. And again, Thou art dead, Brutus: Would to God thou wert living, Thou art unworthy of the succession from the Brute. Surely thou art not descended from the good Brutus: and such like other writings were set upon these Statues.

So as for these,A Conspiracy against him. and such like reasons, there were seventy of the most eminent men in Rome that conspired to murther Caesar: of which the principal were Decius, Marcus Brutus, Caius Cassius, Gaius Casca, Attilius Cimber, Servius Galba, Quintus Ligarius, Marcus Spurius, &c. who, after divers consultations, concluded to kill him upon the Ides of March, which was the fifteenth day of that moneth, in the Temple where the Senators were to sit that day: Yet Brutus was held to be Caesars Son, and had received great honours, and many favours from him. This conspiracy was kept so secret, notwithstanding the great number of them, that there was not any one found that discovered the same.His Death foretold. But there were so many signes and Prodigies, and to himself there happened so many fore-warnings, that (without knowing any cause) all men were of opinion that Caesars Death was near at hand. Spurina also, who was his Southsayer, forewarned him, to look to himself till the Ides of March were past: for that his Life was in great danger. And Caesars own Wife intreated him upon her knees, that he would not that day go to the Senate; For she had dreamed that he lay dead in her lap. These and such like warnings prevailed so far with him, that he was about to send to Mark Anthony to make his excuse, [Page] and to put off the Senate to another day. But what God hath determined must come to pass; and therefore Brutus being present, advised him by no means to discover any such fear, and so he resolved to go.

Caesar made small account of Death, and said, That as for himself he had won power and fame, and glory enough, and that at no time he could die with greater honour. And some discoursing the night before he was slain, what Death was best, Even that (quoth he) which is sudden, and least prepensed. The fifteenth of March being come, he went from his house in a Litter, towards the Senate; and as he passed along the street, there was a Petition delivered to him, wherein was set down in Writing all that was concluded in this conspiracy; and he which gave it, prayed him to read it presently, which he began to do: but there came so many to speak to him, that he could make no farther progress, and this Paper was found in his hand when he was dead. As he passed on, he met with Spurina the Southsayer, and pleasantly jesting, he said to him, Dost thou not know Spurina, that the Ides of March are come? Yea (answered Spurina) and I know that they are not yet past.

When he came to the Temple where the Senators met, he alighted from his Litter and went in, and having first done Sacrifice (according to the custome) which all that saw presaged to be fatal and infortunate, He sat him down in his Chair, and Brutus Albinus entertaining Mark Anthony at the door with discourse, one of the Conspirators, whose name was Celer, came to Caesar, under a pretence to intrcat him to release a Brother of his from Banishment, and presently all the rest of the Conspirators drew near to his Chair; which when Caesar saw, thinking that they had all come for the same purpose, he said unto them, What force is this? And at that instant one of them whose name was Casca, beginning, they all drew their poyniards, and Swords which they had privately under their Gowns, and began to wound him. The first blow he received, Casca gave him in the throat; at which Caesar said aloud, What dost thou Traitor Casca? and wresting the Poyniard out of his hand, he arose and stabbed Casca through the Arm, and being about to strike him again, he was prevented by the many wounds which the others gave him, whilst with great force and courage he leaped from one side to the other to defend himself: But when he saw Marcus Brutus with his drawn Sword in his hand, wherewith he had already wounded him in the Thigh, he was much amazed, and said in the Greek Tongue, Why how now Son Brutus? And thou also? He is slain. And having so said, seeing so many weapons bent against him, and that no body came to his rescue, he remembred to keep the honour of his Person, with his right hand he covered his Head with part of his Robe, and with his left hand girt himself, and settled his clothes about him, and being so covered, he fell down to the ground, having received three and twenty Wounds; and it happened that his fall was at the foot of the seat on which Pompeys Statue stood.His Character. So in this manner died one of the most Mighty, Worthy, Valiant, Wise, and most successful Princes and Captains that ever was in the World. For, his Excellencies, Abilities, Invincible Mind, Incomparable Courage, the Battels which he fought, and Victories which he obtained; the Provinces, Kings, and Nations which he subdued; His Counsels, Policies, and Stratagems, and bold attempts: His Magnanimity, Clemency, and Bounty, both to the Conquered and Conquerors; the great Designs which he proposed to himself a little before he was slain, being all weighed and considered, it will plainly appear, that in none of those things aforesaid, nor in any other that may be said of him, there hath been any Heathen King or Captain that ever excelled him. And setting apart his Ambition and desire of Rule, he was onely noted, and blamed for being too much given to Women.

[Page] Caesar was thus slain in the fifty sixth year of his Age, a little more than four years after the Death of Pompey, in the seven hundred and tenth year after the building of Rome, and about forty and two years before the Incarnation of our Blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Caesar left behind him neither Son nor Daughter legitimate at that time of his Death: For though he had been four several times married, yet he had but one only Daughter, named Julia, that was married to Pompey, and died before him.His Will. Wherefore by his last Will, he adopted for his Son, and made his Heir in the Dodrant, that is, in nine parts of twelve of his goods, his Nephew Octavius Caesar, afterwards called Octavianus Augustus, who was the Son of Acia, his Neece, and of Octavius Praetor of Macedonia, which Octavius at this time, was, by the commandment of his Uncle, in the City of Apollonia, in the Province of Epirus, where he applied himself to his studies, staying for him there, thence to go with him to the Parthian War, being now about seventeen years of age.

Caesar being thus slain, the news of it ran presently all over the City, and the tumult therein was so great, that no man knew what to do or say. All Offices ceased, the Temples were all shut up, and every man was amazed. Caesars Friends were afraid of those that slew him, and they as much feared his Friends, Brutus, Cassius, and the other Conspirators, and others that joyned with them, seeing the great tumult, durst not go to their Houses, nor prosecute their other designs, for fear of Mark Anthony and Lepidus, whereof the one was Consul, and the other General of the Horsemen, but presently from thence they went to seize upon the Capitol, crying by the way as they went, Liberty, Liberty, and imploring the favour, and assistance of the People. The rest of that day, and all next night, Mark Anthony, and Lepidus (who took Caesars part) were in Arms, and there passed sundry messages, and treaties between them and the Conspirators: At last it was agreed that the Senate should sit, whither Brutus, and Cassius came, M. Anthonies Sons (by the perswasion of Cicero, a great lover of Liberty) remaining as Hostages for them.

In the Senate they Treated of Peace and concord,Peace concluded. and that all that was past should be buried in perpetual oblivion; whereunto, Anthony who was Consul, and the whole Senate agreed: and the Provinces being divided, there was a great likelihood of Peace. For the Senate approved, and commended the murther, and the People dissembled their thoughts: For on the one side the authority of Brutus and Cassius, and the name of Liberty, seemed to give them some content: and on the other side, the hainousness of the fact, and the love they bare to Caesar, did move, and excite them to hate the murtherers, and so all was quiet for the present. But Mark Anthony (who affected the Tyranny) took every opportunity to incense the People against them: and Caesars Testament being opened, wherein (besides the adopting of his Nephew Octavius, and making him his Heir) besides other bequests, he bequeathed to the People of Rome, certain Gardens, and Lands near to the River of Tiber, and to every Citizen of Rome, certain Gardens, and Lands neer to the sum of mony to be divided amongst them, which being known, much encreased their love to Caesar, and made his death more grievous to them.

Caesars Funeral being agreed upon, his Body was burnt with great solemnity in the Field of Mars, and Mark Anthony made the Funeral Oration in his Praise, and took the Robe wherein Caesar was slain, being all bloody, and shewed it to the People, using such Speeches as provoked them both to wrath, and commiseration, so as before the Funeral solemnity was fully finished, they all depart in great fury,A tumult. taking Brands in their hands from the fire wherein Caesar was burned, and went to burn the Houses of Brutus, and Cassius, and if they could have found them, and the rest of the Conspirators, they would [Page] certainly have slain them; and in their fury they unadvisedly slew Elius Cinna, by mistaking him for Cornelius Cinna, who was one of the Conspirators.

This tumult put Brutus, and Cassius, and their confederates, into such fear, that they all sled from Rome into several parts: and though the Senate (having appeased the tumult) inflisted punishment upon some of the seditious, and had already committed some of them to Prison, yet Brutus, and Cassius durst not return to Rome, but after a while went into Greece, to Govern those Provinces which Caesar in his Life time had allotted unto them, which were, Macedonia to Brutus, and Syria to Cassius. And truly this was very remarkable, that within the space of three years all the Conspirators died, and not one of them a natural death.

Caesar in his fifth and last Consulship made an Edict, that thanks should be returned to Hyrcanus, He favoured the Jews. the High-Priest and Prince of the Jews, and to the Nation of the Jews, for their affection to himself and the People of Rome. And decreed also, that the said Hyrcanus, should have the City of Jerusalem, and repair the Walls of it which Pompey had beaten down, and should Govern it as he pleased himself. He also granted to the Jews, that every second year there should an abatement be made out of their rents, and that they should be free from Impositions, and Tributes.

His Name of Caesar was so honourable, that all his successors to this present day, have assumed it into their Title, and esteemed it an honour to be called Caesars.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF OCTAVIANUS AUGUSTUS In whose Raign our LORD CHRIST WAS BORN.

[Page]

OCtavius Caesar, His Parentage. who was afterwards called Octavianus Augustus, was by the Fathers side descended of the Antient Family of the Octavij, which was of great account in Rome even from the time of Tarquin their King: By the Mothers side he was descended from the Regal Line: His Mother was Accia the Daughter of Accius Balbus, and Julia, the Sister of Julius Caesar, which Accia was married to the Father of Octavius. He was born in the year of the Consulshp of Cicero, and Caius Antonius. He was but four years old when his Father dyed: and at twelve years old he made an Oration at the Funeral of his Grand-mother Julia.

When his Uncle Julius Caesar, was Warring in Spain against the Sons of Pompey, His first imployment. Octavius (though he was but young) followed him thither through many and great dangers: and when that War was ended, Julius Caesar intending to take him with him to the Parthian War, sent him before to the City of Apollonia, where he plyed his Book very diligently; and on a time having a mind to see Theogenes, a learned Astronomer, he calculated his Nativity, and promised him great matters, which made Octavius conceive great [Page] hopes of himself, and in memory thereof he caused certain Medals to be coined, and would often boast of what Theogenes had told him.

Octavius in the sixth month after he went to Apollonia, having intelligence from his Mother of the Death of his Uncle Julius Caesar, He comes into Italy. he hasted out of Epirus to Brundusium, where he was received by the Army that went to meet him as the adopted Son of Caesar, and without any further delay he assumed the name of Caesar, and took upon him to be his Heir, and that so much the rather, because he had brought with him good store of mony, and great forces that were sent him by his Uncle: and so at Brundusium, adopting himself into the Julian Family, he called himself Caius Julius Caesar Octavius.

To this very Name, as though he had been his true Son, there came great store of,Many resor: to him. partly of his Friends, partly of freed-men, slaves, and Souldiers, by whom being more strengthened and imboldned by the multitude of them that flocked to him, and by the authority of the Caesarian name, which with the common People was in great reputation, he took his journey towards Rome with a great train, which daily increased like a Floud.

On the fourteenth Kalends of May he entered into Naples, where he gave Cicero a visit.He comes to Rome. From thence as he was going to Rome there met him a vast company of his Friends, and as he entered the City, the Globe of the Sun seemed to compass his Head round like unto a Bow, as it were, putting a Crown upon his Head, who afterward was to be so great a man: and at night, calling together his Friends, he commanded them to be ready the next morning, with good store of followers, to meet him in the Marketplace, which was done accordingly; and he going to Caius, the City Praetor, and Brother to Anthony, he told him that he did accept of the Adoption. For it was the Roman custom in Adoptions to interpose the authority of the Praetor: which acceptance being Registred by the Scribes, from thence he presently went to Mark Anthony the Consul,M. Anthony's Pride, who behaved himself proudly towards him, and scarcely admitting him into Pompeys Gardens, gave him time to speak with him.

Octavianus had a great mind to revege the Death of Julius Caesar; but by his Mother, and Philip his Father in Law he was advised to conceal his purpose for a time, both because the Senate had approved his Death, and because Mark Anthony, who was principally to assist him therein, did not shew himself very friendly to him. Octavianus understanding that Mark Anthony had in his custody all the Treasure that was left by Julius Caesar, he desired him to command it to be delivered to him, therewith to pay his debts, and to distribute it as Caesar had appointed in his Will: But Anthony with greater Pride than Octavianus could well bear, not only refused what he demanded, but reproved him for desiring it; whereupon discords presently arose betwixt them: and Octavianus strengthened himself with the Counsel of Cicero, a great Enemy to Anthony, and one whose authority at that time, by reason of his Wisdom and Eloquence, was very great.

Anthony being Overseer of those things which Caesar had commanded to be done,And falshood. what by corrupting the Notes, and changing them at his pleasure, did what himself listed, as if it had been the appointment of Caesar; by this means, gratifying Cities and Governours, and heaping vast sums of money to himself, selling not only Fields and Tributes, but freedoms and immunities even of the City of Rome, and that not only to particular Persons, but to whole Provinces, and of these things there were Tables hung up all over the Capitol.

[Page] Octavianus being nineteen years old,Caesar raises [...] at his own charges gathered an Army, and sought the favour of the People, and prepared Forces against Anthony for his own and the Commonwealths safety. He allo stirred up the old Souldiers, who by Julius Caesar had been planted in Colonies: so that Anthony being afraid of him, by the mediation of Friends, had a conference with him in the Capitol, and they were for the present reconciled, but within a few days, through the whisperings of some, their enmity brake out again, and Anthony, not thinking himself strong enough, and knowing that the Legions of Macedonia were the best Souldiers, and six in number, with whom also were many Archers, light harnessed men, and Horsemen, these he sought to draw to himself, who, because of their neerness, might presently be brought into Italy: and thereupon he caused a rumour to be spread, that the Getae wasted Macedonia by their inrodes; and upon that occasion he demanded an Army of the Senate, saying, that the Macedonian Army was raised by Caesar against the Getae, before he intended the Parthian War, whereupon he was chosen General of those Forces, and he obtained a Law for the change of Provinces, whereby his Brother Caius Anthony challenged Macedonia, which before by lot fell to Marcus Brutus.

On the seventh of the Ides of October Anthony went to Brundusium, Anthony leaves Rome. there to meet four of the Macedonian Legions, whom he thought to draw to himself by money. Thither also Octavianus sent his Friends with money to hire these Souldiers for himself, and himself posted into Campania, to engage those Souldiers which were in Colonies to take his part; and first he drew to him the old Souldiers of Galatia, then those of Casilinum on both sides of Capua, giving to each man five hundred pence, by which means he gat together about ten thousand men, who marched with him under one Ensign as a guard.

In the mean while the four Legions of Macedonia, accusing Anthony for his delays in revenging Caesars Death, without any acclamations conducted him to the Tribunal, as it were, to hear an account of this matter, and there continued silent. Anthony taking this ill, upbraded them with their Ingratitude, and complained that they had not brought to him some disturbers of the Peace, who were sent from that malapert young man (for so he called Octavian) and to ingratiate himself with them, he promised an hundred pence to each of them, which niggardly promise was intertained with laughter, which he took so ill,His Parsimony. that being returned to his Quarters, in the presence of his most covetous, and most cruel Wife Fulvia, he put to death some Centurions out of the Martian Legion.

When those of Caesars party, that were sent to corrupt the Souldiers, saw that they were more exasperated by this deed,Caesars Policy. they scattered Libels about the Army, wherein they disgraced Anthony, and extolled the liberality of Caesar. And when some sided with Octavian, and others with Anthony, the Army, as if it had been set to sale at an outcry, addicted themselves to him that would give most. And because that Decius Brutus, who commanded Gallia Cisalpirea (now Lombardy) opposed Anthony, he went to besiege him in the City of Mutina (now Modena) which being known in Rome, Cicero his authority and credit in the Senate was such, that Mark Anthony was declared an Enemy to the State,Anthony declared an Enemy. and the new Consuls, Hircius and Pansa were sent against him, and with them was Octavian sent with Ensigns of a Consul, and Title of a Pro-praetor, having been first admitted into the Senate though so young, which was done by the procurement of Cicero, though he afterwards requited him ill for it.

Octavian with the Consuls, drew neer to Mark Anthony, Cicero remaining [Page] to command in chief in all matters at Rome: and between the two Armies there passed many skirmishes and encounters, and at last they came to Battel, wherein the Consuls and Caesar had the Victory,Caesar overcomes him. but Hircius was slain in the Battel, and Pansa was so wounded, that he died within few days after, and both the Armies of the slain Consuls obeyed Caesar. By this means D. Brutus was freed from his siege, and Anthony was forced to forsake Italy by a dishonourable flight, leaving his baggage behind him. In this service Octavian made marvellous proof of himself, being but twenty years old, performing the Office, not only of a good Captain, but also of a stout Souldier: For seeing the Standard-bearer sore wounded and ready to fall, Octavian took from him the Eagle, and bare it a great while till he had lodged it in safety.

Mark Anthony after the Battel,He flies into France. gathering the remainders of his Army, passed tho Alps and went into France, solliciting the Friendship of Lepidus, who was there with an Army ever since the Death of Julius Caesar, whom after some treaties he made his Friend: and Octavian after the Victory obtained, presently sent to the Senate to require a Triumph for his Victory, as also the Consulship for the remainder of the year in the roome of the dead Consuls, with their succession in their charge, and command of the Army. But the answer of the Senate was not according to his desire: For the Friends and Kinsmen of those that had murthered Caesar began to fear him, and to suspect his power, wherefore they prevailed to delay that which he required, and in the end they resolved to assign the Army to Decius Brutus, and temporizing with Octavian, they granted him a Triumph, but denied him the Consulship, whereat he was much discontented, and therefore secretly treated of friendship with Mark Anthony, and having drawn to himself the affection of the Army, he therewith marched towards Rome, and approaching near to the City, in dispite of the Senate, he caused himself to be chosen Consul being not fully twenty years old.Caesar makes himself Consul. Then did he cause accusations to be exhibited against Brutus, and Cassius, and the rest of the Conspirators; and in their absence, having none that durst defend their cause, they were condemned. After this was done he left the City, and with his Army marched toward Anthony, and Lepidus, who were already entred into Italy.

Decius Brutus hearing of the Treaties and League that was made between Octavian, Lepidus and Mark Anthony, not daring to stay in that Country, departed with his Army, which soon forsook him, some going to Caesar, others to Mark Anthony, whereupon he fled, but being at last taken, he was brought to Mark Anthony, who caused his Head to be cut off. The Armies of these Captains drawing near together, to whom Affinius Pollio, and Planeus, with their Legions were joyned, these three Octavian Caesar, Mark Anthony, and Lepidus, meeting, after three days debate, they concluded their accursed Peace;A Triumvirate efected. and these fire-brands of sedition entered into a Tiumvirate, with several intents and designs. Lepidus was covetous, and sought riches by troubling the State. Anthony was by nature an enemy to Peace, and to the Commonwealth, desiring an opportunity to be revenged of those who had declared him an Enemy to the State. And Octavian sought revenge upon Brutus, and Cassius, and those who had slain his adopted Father. And to bring these things to pass, Octavian put away his Wife who was Daughter to Servilius, and contracted himself to Claudia, Daughter in Law to Anthony by his Wife Fulvia, who was now a child, and from whom he was afterward divorced by reason of the discord that arose between Anthony and him.

In this League which they made, besides dividing the Provinces amongst themselves,Many proscribed. they agreed to Proscribe and kill each of them his Enemies, and the one delivered them into the others hands, having more respect to be revenged upon an Enemy than to save a Friend; and so there was made the [Page] most cruel and inhumane Proscription, and Butchery that ever was before heard of, giving and exchanging Friends, and Kinsmen for Enemies. For Mark Anthony gave up his Fathers Brother: and Lepidus his own Brother, Lucius Paulus: Ingratitude. and Octavian, M. T. Cicero, whom he called Father, and who had intreated and honoured him as a Son. And besides these, they Proscribed and condemned to die three hundred other Principal men of Rome, amongst whom were about one hundred and fourty Senators, besides two thousand Romans of the order of Knighthood.

This agreement being made, they all three went to Rome, where they took upon them the Government of the Commonwealth by the name of Triumvirat, the time being limited to five years, though they never meant to leave the same. And presently after, those who were condemned and Proscribed, were by their commandment put to death, being sought out in all parts and places; their Houses were ransacked, and their goods confiscated.

Cicero understanding that his name was in the Catalogue amongst the Proscripts,Cicero flies. only because he had been a lover of Roman Liberty, he fled to the Sea, where he embarked himself, but so hard was his hap, that by contrary winds he was driven back to the shore, whereupon, returning to some possessions of his near Capua, not far from the Sea, as he lay sleeping there, he was awakened by some Crowes which with their bills pluckt his cloaths from his back. His servants being moved with this ill presage, put him into his Litter, and again carried him towards the Sea: but being overtaken by the murtherers,And is slain. he put his neck but of his Litter, and they cut off his Head, and his right hand, wherewith he had written his Orations against Mark Anthony called Philippicks: And thus was he slain by one whom he had defended, and delivered from death. Anthony joyfully received his [...]and, and caused it to be nailed up in the place where he was wont to plead, to which all the People repaired to behold so woful and miserable a spectacle, of whom there was not any one but was heartily sorry for the Death of so great a Personage, and so fervent a lover of his Country. Salvius Otho, a Tribune of the People, invited his Friends to his last Supper, and as they were sitting, in came a Centurion, and in the presence of them all, strake off his Head. Minutius the Praetor was slain,Horrid cruelty. sitting in his seat of Judgment. L. Villius Annalis, who had been Consul, flying from the murtherers, hid himself in the Suburbs in a little House of one of his clients,Sons unnatural. but his own Son betrayed him to the murtherers, who slew him there; but shortly after this Particle being drunken, quarrelling with the same Souldiers, was slain by them. C. Terentius also being betrayed by his own Son, was slain, who in a few days having consumed his Patrimony, was condemned for Theft, and banished into a place where he died miserably.

Quintus▪ Cicero was hid by his Son, whom they could never make to confess by any torments where his Father was;Sons dutiful and good. but the old man, not being able any longer to endure that they should torment so vertuous a Son, came and presented himself to the Murtherers: whereupon the Son entreated them to kill him first, but they killed them both together. The Egnaces; the Father and Son, embracing one the other were both run through and slain. C. Hosidius Geta, was put into a grave by his Son as dead, who sustained and kept him till the danger was over. Aruntius, after he had comforted his Son, delivered up himself to the murtherers, but his Son for grief famished himself. Some other Children carefully hid, and preserved their Parents.

Tanusia was such an importunate suitor to Caesar for her Husband T. Junius Wives good. that she preserved his life: He was in the interim hidden by Philopoemen, his bondmen enfranchised, whom Caesar afterwards Knighted for his fidelity to his Master. Q. Ligurius having been concealed by his Wife, was discovered [Page] by a slave, and killed, whereupon his Wife pined her self to death. Lucretius Vespilio, having passed many dangers whilst he sought to hide himself here and there, at last came to his Wife Shuria, who hid him between the Cieling and the top of the House, till she had begged his Life of the Triumvirs. Apuleius was saved by his Wife, who fled away with him. Antius his Wife wrapped him up in Coverlets, and caused him to be carried to the Sea side, as a pack of Stuff, where he embarked, and sailed into Sicily. Coponius was saved by his Wife, who lent her Body to Anthony for one night, to save him whom she preferred before her honour.

But the Wife of Septimius, Wives bad. having shamefully given her Body to one of Anthonies Familiars, caused her Husband to be put into the number of the Poscripts, that she might the more freely continue her Adulteries, and her Husband was slain by her means. Q. Vettius Salussus was hidden in a very secret place, but acquainting his Wife with it, she betrayed him to the Murtherers. Fulvius was discovered by one of his slaves and his Concubine, though he had made her free, and given her goods wherewithall to maintain her self.

P. Naso was betrayed by his slave enfranchised,Servants bad. with whom he had been too familiar, but he revenged himself upon his slave, whom he killed, and then held forth his neek to the cut throats. L. Lucceius had put into the hands of two of his Freed men, as much as would have relieved him in his Banishment, but they ran away with all; whereupon he delivered himself to the Murtherers. Haterius, who had hid himself in a very secret place, was sold and betrayed by his slave, and killed. Cassius Varus, who was betrayed by a slave made free, had his Head struck off. Caius Plotius was hidden by his slaves, but being given to Perfumes, the scent thereof discovered him;Servants good. yet when the Souldiers could not find him, they cruelly tormented his Servants to make them confess where he was, which yet they would not do: But the Master pittying his faithful Servants, came out of his secret place, and delivered himself to the murtherers.

Appius Claudius changed his Gown with his slave, who in that habit presented himself to the murtherers, and was slain by them instead of his Master. Another slave of Menius did the like: for he went into his Masters Litter, and offered his neck to the murtherers, who cut off his Head, and so his Master escaped into Sicily. The slave of Urbinus Panopio, hearing that the murtherers were coming to his Masters house, took off his Gown and his Ring, and gave him his own apparel, and put him out at a back door: then he went up and lay upon his Masters Bed, where he boldly attended them that killed him for Panopio. The slave of Antius Restio, though his Master had soundly beaten him a few dayes before for some knavish tricks, yet to save his Master, meeting an old man by the way, he struck off his Head, and shewing that, with his whippings to the murtherers, he made them believe that thus he had revenged himself of his Master, with whom he shortly after fled into Sicily. The slaves of Martius Censorinus kept their Master secretly, till he had opportunity to escape into Sicily, to Sextus Pompeius.

Q. Oppius, A good Son. an honourable old man, being very near taking, was rescued by his Son, who conveying him out of Rome, carried him upon his shoulders, and sent him into Sicily, vvhere all the poor distressed Romans were courteously entertained by S. Pompeius, who sent forth Ships and Galleys to lye upon the Coast of Italy, ready to receive all them that fled to him; doubly rewarding those that saved any that was proscribed: He gave also honourable Offices to all that had been Consuls, and comforting the rest with singular courtesie. Many others fled into Macedonia, to Brutus and Cassius: others into Africk to Cornisicius. Statius Samnis, an honourable Senator, being [Page] about eighty years old, that those Thieves might have no part of his Goods, he gave them for a prey to whomsoever would take them; then setting his House on fire, he burnt himself in it. Aponius having been long concealed by his slave, grew weary of that confinement, came out into the Market-place, and yielded his neck to the murtherers. Cestius being in the like condition, caused his slaves to make a great fire, threw himself into it, and died: Sulpitus Rufus, who had been Consul, was murthered, because he would not sell an Isle of his to Fulvia: A Jezabel. also Ampius Balbus was slain, because he would not give her a pleasant place of his.

M. Anthony put into the number of Proscripts,Base Covetousness. a Senator called Nonius Struma, onely to get from him an Emerald esteemed worth fifty thousand Crowns: but Nonius found a means to escape with his Emerald, to the great grief of Anthony. Some valiantly defended themselves, as Atteius Capito, who killed many Souldiers,Valour. who came rudely running upon him, but being at last oppressed with multitudes, he was slain. Vetulinus, assisted by his Son, valiantly repulsed the murtherers, but at last was slain. Sicilias Coranas hoping to escape, put himself amongst the Mourners that followed a dead Corps, but being discovered, was slain.

The Triumviri caused the Goods of the Proscripts to be sold by the Drum, at such prizes as the Souldiers pleased, yet most part of them was spoiled, and given away. They promised also to Widows their Joyntures, and to Sons, the tenth part of their Fathers Patrimony, and to Daughters the twentieth part; but few or none had any benefit by this promise: yea, on the contrary, they sacked many of them that demanded these rights. They exacted great sums of money in Rome, Oppression. and all over Italy; and to encourage the Souldiers, they gave them unmeasurable gifts, and granted them daily new pillage. The Legions they Wintered in the richest Cities upon free Quarter. To be short, men by fear and custome were so inured to slavery, that they became more slaves than the Tyrants would have had them.

These three men having done what they would in Rome, and knowing that Brutus and Cassius had a very great Army in Greece, who called themselves the Deliverers of their Countrey saying, that they would go and set Rome at liberty from Oppression: Cassius having overthrown and slain Dolabella in Syria: and being informed, that by the assistance of their Friends, they had gotten together eighteen Legions; hereupon Mark Anthony and Octavian resolved to go against them wich the greatest Army that they could possibly make, of old Souldiers, and that Lepidus should stay to guard Rome: and accordingly they departed,They go against Brutus and Cassius. and arrived in Greece, and marching on, they drew near to the place where Brutus and Cassius were encamped, which was in Macedonia in the Philippick Fields.

Before they came to joyn Battel,Prodigies. there were sundry Prodigies: for Fowls of prey hovered about the Camp of Brutus, as if it had been their own already: and as they marched out to Battel, a Blackmoor met them, which they accounted an ill Omen. Brutus being alone in his Tent at night, a man sad and gastly appeared to him,A Spectrum. and being asked what he was, he answered, I am thy evil Genius, and so vanished: But on the contrary, Birds and Beasts promised good success to Caesar. These Armies lying so near together, had frequent skirmishes, and at last came to a Battel, where the Victory was strangely divided: For Brutus on the one side of the Field, did beat Octavian, and put his Battalion to rout,Brutus beats Caesar. pursuing them into the Camp, where many of them were slain;M. Anthony. beats Cassius. and while Brutus was following his Victory, his partner Cassius was overthrown by Mark Anthony, though he did all that was possible to encourage his men, and by reason of the clouds of Dust, knew nothing of Brutus his Victory, whereupon, retiring to an high ground, [Page] he there pitched his Tent: and so standing and looking about, he saw Brutus his Troops coming to his aid, and to relieve him; but he imagining that they came flying before their enemies, commanded a slave of his, whom he had made free, to kill him, who did it accordingly.

Octavians men that escaped by flight, retired to Mark Anthonies Camp, and had not Brutus his men busied themselves in ransacking Octavians Camp, they had that day obtained an entire Victory: for they might in due time have rescued, and relieved Cassius, and both of them being joyned together, might easily have overthrown Mark Anthony: but God had otherwise determined. The Victory being thus divided, the Generals of either party gathered their Forces together, and of Brutus side were slain eight thousand men, and of the Enemies side a far greater number. Brutus did his best to encourage and comfort his Souldiers, and the Gentlemen which followed Cassius: and the next day, though both Armies were put in battel Array, yet they fought not; but a few dayes after, Brutus, by his Souldiers, was forced to come to another Battel, who was of himself willing rather to delay and prolong the War, knowing that his Enemies wanted Victuals, and many other necessaries, and because he reposed no great trust in the Forces of Cassius: for he found that they were fearful, and hard to be commanded, because of their late overthrow. When they came to the second encounter, Brutus did all the Offices of an able General, and of a Valiant Knight,Brutus beaten. yet in the end his men were broken, and overthrown by the Enemy. Brutus having gathered his scattered Troops together, found himself unable to make any farther resistance, and being advised by some of his Friends to fly, he told them, That so he would, yet not with his feet, Kills himself. but with his hands; and thereupon, taking a Sword from a Servant of his called Stratus, he slew himself. Thus Octavian and Mark Anthony remained Victors, and Masters of the Field, and all things succeeded according to Caesars desire, for whom, God in his secret Counsel had reserved the Monarchy of the whole World, which for the present was divided between three.

These Wars being ended, and the Legions of Brutus and Cassius reduced to the obedience of the Conquerours, Octavian and Mark Anthony agreed, and resolved, that Anthony should remain to govern Greece, and Asia, that Lepidus should go into Africk, and that Octavian should return to Rome: and accordingly Mark Anthony went into Asia, Anthony with Cleopatra. where he gave himself up to sensuality and delights, with the fair, but wanton Cleopatra, Queen of Aegypt, and Octavian, though with some hindrances, by reason of his health, at last came to Rome.

Not long after,Troubles in Rome. there arose new Wars and troubles, for though Octavian was at peace with Lepidus, who was now in Africk, Octavian having under his command, Spain, France, part of Germany, Italy, and Illyricum, yet Lucius Antonius, who at this time was Consul, being provoked thereto by his Sister in Law Fulvia, Wife to Mark Anthony, began to oppose himself against Lepidus and Octavian, seeking to overthrow the Triumvirat; which contention brake out about the division of Fields which Caesar had made to the Souldiers which had served him in his Wars. Some say that Fulvia made this stir, that she might procure the return of Mark Anthony to her, of whom she was jealous, hearing of his familiarity with Cleopatra. The discord in Rome grew to that height, that they came to Arms; and Lucius Antonius went from the City, and levied an Army against Octavian, who also marched towards him with his Forces. But Lucius not daring to joyn Battel, shut himself up in Perugia, where Caesar immediately besieged him, and Divorced himself from Claudia the Daughter of Fulvia, and was married to his third Wife Scribonia, by whom he had [Page] one onely Daughter. Octavian being about twenty three years old, so strictly besieged Perugia, Caesars Victory. that Lucius and his men were brought to such straits for want of Victuals, that he was forced to yield up himself to Octavian, who pardoned him, and used him kindly; and thus this War was ended without bloudshed. And so Octavian returned to Rome, of which he was now sole Lord: and from hence some reckon the beginning of his Empire, which was about four years after the Death of Julius Caesar, and about thirty eight years before the Incarnation of our blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Caesar being now in quiet, Fulvia, by Letters, and false Informations, sought to stir up her Husband Mark Anthony against Octavian, with which resolution she left Italy, and went towards him; and at the same time Mark Anthony departed from Alexandria in Aegypt, and came to the Isle of Rhodes, where he was informed of all that had happened to his Brother Lucius. From thence he went into Greece, Anthony comes into Italy. and at Athens he found his Wife Fulvia sick, yet vehemently inveighing against Octavian: wherefore leaving her there, he went with two hundred Gallies into Italy, and landed at Brundusium, where the Wars began between him and the Forces of Octavian, who was yet at Rome. But news coming of Fulvia's death, some Friends interposed to reconcile them, and at last it was agreed, that Arbitrators should be chosen to compose their differences. Octavian chose Mecoenas, and for Mark Anthony was Asinius Pollio, and these brought it to this issue, that Mark Anthony should have all the East from Italy, beginning from the Jonian Sea, which is the entry into the Venetian Gulph, unto the River of Euphrates, wherein were included all the Provinces of Graecia and Asia, with all the Islands within these limits.Peace made betwixt them. To Octavian was allotted from the said Jonian Sea to the Western or Spanish Sea, wherein were contained Spain, France, Italy, Germany, and Britain. To Lepidus was confirmed Africa, where he then was, with all the Provinces thereof. And for the strengthening of this League, Mark Anthony, now a Widower, was to marry with Octavia, the Sister of Octavian by the Fathers side, formerly married to Marcus Marcellus, by whom she had one Son, called also Marcellus, whom Octavian adopted. And this marriage was dispensed with by the Senate, because in Rome Widows were not permitted to marry, till they had lived ten months in Widowhood, which she had not done.

This being concluded,Anthony marries Octavia. Octavian and Mark Anthony went to Rome, where the Wedding was solemnized, and they were seemingly good Friends; but their Peace was disquieted by the Neighbourhood of Sextus Pompeius, who commanded the Seas from Sicily where he lived, and with his Ships and Pyrates he disquieted Caesars Friends, who thereupon resolved to ruine him: But at the request of the Senate, and of Mark Anthony, he hearkened to Peace, and by the mediation of Friends,They are reconciled with Sextus Pompey. it was agreed, that all matters past should be forgotten, and that they should live like good Neighbours and Friends, and that Sextus Pompey should enjoy Sicily, Sardinia, and Corsica, which he had in possession, and that he should clear the Seas from Pyrates, that Merchants and Passengers might pass safely, and that he should furnish Rome yearly with a certain quantity of Corn. This being concluded, they agreed upon a meeting of all three upon the Sea side in the Straight of Messina, in a Fortress built for that purpose, which reached into the Water, whither Sextus Pompey might come with his Galleys and be in safety: which accordingly was performed with great joy and solemnity; and Sextus Pompey feasted them in his Galleys, and they likewise him by Land.

From hence Sextus Pompey returned into Sicily, and Octavian and Mark Anthony to Rome, where for a while they remained in great Familiarity: and then Mark Anthony preparing for his journey into the East, sent Venditius before [Page] him with a great Army against the Parthians, wherein he had so good success, that he overcame and defeated Pacorus, The Parthians beaten. the Parthian Kings Son, and slew twenty thousand of his men, and thereby sufficiently revenged the Death of Marcus Crassus, for which he afterwards Triumphed at Rome.

Mark Anthony departed from Rome with his new Wife, and wintered with her in Athens. Octavian in the mean time in Rome growing mighty, and in high esteem, was yet very pensive, being troubled at the Neighbourhood of Sextus Pompey in Sicily, attending an occasion to War against him: for which purpose he prepared a great Fleet,Caesar envies Sextus Pompey. pretending that Sextus with his Ships, and Gallies hindred the coming of Corn into Italy. These Sicilian Wars continued for some years: in the beginning whereof Octavian had ill success, yet more from storms and tempests than from the force of his Enemies: and if Sextus Pompey had been as prudent and able to offend his Enemy as he was to defend himself: and as he was Valiant, if he had been as Wise and Politick, he might have greatly distressed Octavian in all matters concerning Italy: yet the matter was so handled, that at Octavians request Mark Anthony came twice out of the East into Italy to assist him in these Wars. The first time he came to Brundusium, where, not finding Octavian according to appointment, he returned without seeing him, upon some jealousies which grew betwixt them. But Octavian having lost most of his Fleet in a storm, he sent his intire Friend Mecenas to Mark Anthony, at whose intreaty he returned into Italy with three hundred Ships and Gallies, giving it out that he came to Caesars aid. And though there were some difference between them, yet Octavia so laboured between her Husband and Brother, that she reconciled them, and so they met in the mouth of the River near Tarentum, where Mark Anthony gave to Octavian one hundred and twenty of his Gallies for his Wars, and Octavian gave to him some of the Italian Souldiers, and they renewed their Triumvirat for other five years. Which done, Mark Anthony returned to the East to prosecute his Wars against the Parthians, his Wife Octavia and her Children remaining in Rome.

Anthony being gone,Wars against him. Octavian resolving to prosecute the Wars against Sextus Pompey with all his Forces, armed two Navies, whereof Agrippa was the Admiral of the one, and himself of the other: He sent also to Lepidus intreating his aid, who accordingly came and brought with him a thousand Ships, little and great, and eighty Gallies, wherein he transported five thousand Horse, and twelve Legions of Foot Souldiers. Sextus Pompey hearing what great preparations were made against him, did strongly fortifie all the Sea-coasts of Sicily, and on the frontiers of Africk, near to Lilibaeum, he placed Plinius, a good Captain with good Companies of Souldiers, and his whole Fleet by Sea he drew into the Port of Messina, purposing to mannage his Wars by Sea, having neither experience, nor power to do it by Land, and so he attended the coming of his Enemies.

Lepidus loosing with his whole Fleet from Africk, was encountered with a tempest, wherein with the loss of a great part of his Navy, he, with the rest landed at Lilybaeum, and took in certain places thereabout, but having small judgment, and experience in the Wars, he made a greater noise then did hurt to Pompey. Octavius also being at Sea in a tempest, lost thirty of his Gallies, besides small Ships, and with much difficulty returned to Italy: and Taurus, who commanded the Gallies which Anthony left, landed at Tarentum, though with great loss and danger. Octavian was so grieved at these losses, that he had thoughts of giving over the War for that year: but changing his mind, he repaired his Fleets, and ordered Agrippa, with one of them to pass into Sicily, and there to make War both by Sea and land: and himself following with the other Fleet did the like.

[Page] About this time Octavian divorced himself from Scribonia, though he had a Daughter by her called Livia, Caesar marries Livia. and then he married Livia Drusilla, Wife to Tiberius Nero, by whom she had a Son called also Tiberius; hereupon Tiberius was forced to leave her to please Octavian, though at this time she was with Child of a Son. This Livia he loved dearly, and continued with her till his Death.

Agrippa assaulted and took in some places in Sicily, which Pompey hearing of, departed from Messina with one hundred and seventy five Gallies, to relieve them, and Agrippa being advertised of his coming, prepared to meet him, his Gallies being almost equal in number, and so they joyned Battel, which for a time seemed to be equal,Pompey beaten. but at last Agrippa prevailed, and Pompey retreated in time, his Gallies and Foists withdrawing themselves into some Rivers near at hand, whither Agrippa with his bigger Vessels could not follow them. In this fight Pompey lost thirty of his Gallies. Agrippa the next day went to a City called Tindaria, thinking to surprise it by reason of intelligence which he had with the Citizens: and Pompey in the Night gave secret order to his whole Fleet to retire to Messina.

Octavian in the mean time imbarked a great part of his Army, which he landed in Sicily, and set them on shore under the command of Cornificius, little thinking that Pompey had been so near, who if he had taken this opportunity, might have defeated Octavian. But loosing it, Octavian imbarking again, intended to determine the quarrel by a Battel at Sea, leaving Cornificius with his men fortified on the Land. Then did Pompey sail out of Messina with his whole Fleet,Caesar beaten. and neither Parties refusing it, they came to a Battel, in which Octavian was overcome, and all his great Fleet scattered and lost, and himself driven to flie into Italy in a Brigandine, where through many dangers, he at last came to the Army, whereof Mesalla was General, and being nothing discouraged with this loss, he presently took order for all that was needful. To Rome he sent his intire Friend Mecenas, to take order that this news should breed no alteration there, and then presently sent to Agrippa, the Admiral of his other Fleet, that he should with all speed succour Cornificius and his Army in Sicily, and to Lepidus he sent to desire him to make his present repair to the Isle of Lippari, which is between Sicily, and Calabria.

His diligence and good order about these affairs was such, that in a short time, by the help of Lepidus, and Agrippa, in dispite of Pompey, he landed all his Forces in Sicily, and joyning with Lepidus, he encamped near to Messina, where began a most cruel War both by Sea, and Land, wherein the power and sufficiency of Pompey did wonderfully appear, in that he was able to grapple with so potent adversaries. Yet seeing himself oppressed, he sent a challenge to Octavian, that to avoid the further effusion of blood, he would try it out with him in a Naval fight, so many Ships and Gallies against so many. Octavian delayed him at the first, but afterwards they agreed that with three hundred Ships and Galleys on either side, they would meet in such a place, and there fight it out, and accordingly they prepared for the Battel.

Octavian leaving Lepidus with his Land Army, embarked himself in his Fleet, and Pompey did the like, and so they joyned Battel, which was one of the cruellest that ever was, considering the Commanders and the strength on either side, where Pompey, after he had performed all the Offices of a good and Valiant Captain,Pompey beaten. and after the slaughter of multitudes on both sides, was overcome by Octavian, and all his Fleet was burnt and sunk, or taken, saving sixteen sail which escaped by flight, and he in one of them, and these entered into the Haven of Messina. And though the City was sufficiently fortified, and Pompey knew that Plinius, his General was coming to his rescue, yet in a dark night he imbarked,And flies. and with those sixteen Ships which had escaped, he [Page] fled into the East to Mark Anthony, hoping to find relief from him: But after much toil,And is slain. and many accidents which happened to him, he was slain by one Titius at the command of Mark Anthony, and in him failed the House and memory of his Father Pompey the Great.

In this War Octavian escaped many dangers. For having transported part of his Army into Sicily, Caesars dangers. and sailing back to fetch the rest, he was suddenly surprised by Demochares, and Apolaphanes, two of Pompeys Captains, from whom he escaped with much difficulty with one only Ship. Then travelling by Land to Rhegium, he saw some of Pompeys Gallies near to the Shore, and supposing them to be his own, he went down to the Sea side, where he had like to have been taken by them; and then seeking to escape by unknown passages, he met with a slave of Aemilius Paulus, who remembring that he had proscribed his Master Paulus, Father to this Aemilius, he attempted to kill him.

Octavian having obtained this great Victory aforesaid, though with very great loss, he went to Land with the remainder of his Ships and Army, commanding Agrippa to joyn with Lepidus, and to go to Messina, whither Pliny, Pompeys General had retired himself. But not thinking good to stand upon his defence, now that his Master was fled, he yielded himself to Lepidus with all his Legions:He falls out with Lepidus. This made Lepidus so proud, that affecting to have Sicily to himself, he contended with Octavian about it: and entering into the City of Messina, he placed a Garrison in it, to hold it for his own use: The like he did in many other places of the Island: and when Octavian came, he desired to speak with him, greatly complaining of his proceedings.

But in Rule, and Dominion equallity is intollerable, whilst either of them coveted this Isle for himself they fell at variance, and Octavian made his Navy to draw neer to the shore: So that both Armies began to stand upon their guard, the one against the other, and many messages passed between them, yet could they not agree. But Octavian was far better beloved and esteemed by the men of War, for his many vertues, and Nobility, and for his Namesake [Julius Caesar,] then the other, and the Souldiers began to lay all the fault upon Lepidus.

Octavian understanding this,Caesars Policy. laboured secretly to corrupt Lepidus his Souldiers, to draw them to himself: and one day, with a great Troop of Horse, he rode neer to Lepidus his Camp, and parlying with his Souldiers, justified himself and laid all the fault upon Lepidus, insomuch that many of them began to come over to his side. Lepidus, being informed hereof, caused an Alarm to be given, and commanded his men to sally out against Octavian, but when they came forth,Lepidus overcome. most of them joyned with him: so that Lepidus seeing himself in danger of being forsaken of his whole Army, yielded himself unto Caesar, and putting off his Generals Robe, he went to his Tent, and submitted to him. Octavian received him as if he had never offended, very courteously, and honourably, but restored him neither to his State nor power, and sent him with a good company to Rome, without any Office but the High Priesthood, which he had held ever since the Death of Julius Caesar: and so this difference was ended without bloodshed.

Octavian now retaining Sicily to himself, and having devested Lepidus of the Triumvirat, he appropriated to himself the Province of Africk, and remained General of the three Armies, to wit, of Lepidus, of Pompey, and of his own; wherein were forty five Legions of Footmen, and twenty five thousand Horse, all well armed, besides many other Numidians. He had also upon the Sea, six hundred Gallies and many Ships, and Brigandines. And now waited only for an opportunity to fall out with Mark Anthony that he might make himself Lord of all. Yet for the present he paid his Souldiers as well as he could, and gave Coronets, Honours, and Arms to those who had deserved well in these [Page] Wars. He then dispersed his Armies, sending them to their own homes, loaden with many fair promises. He also left, and sent Praetors and Governours into Sicily and Africk, Caesar returns to Rome. and so hasted towards Rome, where he was received with Ovation (which was little less than a Triumph) with incredible joy and honour: and was so exceedingly beloved, that in many places they erected Temples and Altars to him, as to their Gods: and he reformed such things as by reason of the Wars were grown out of order.

At this time Mark Anthony, who was in the East, though he had no great success in his Parthian War, yet was he still of great power, very Rich, and well obeyed in the Provinces of Greece, Asia, and Aegypt, and in the rest of his Governments.Anthony besotted with Cleopatra. But he was so besotted with the love, and company of Cleopatra, the Queen of Aegypt, that he thought of nothing but how to saitsfie her humour, in the mean time neglecting, and forgetting his Wife Octavia, the Sister of Octavian, who in beauty and Wisdom was nothing inferiour to Cleopatra, and in virtue and goodness did far excel her.

The Monarchy of the World being thus divided between these two, the one in the East, the other in the West, yet, as though each of them had not enough, they studied each of them to supplant, and destroy the other Chiefly Octavian, Caesar seeks a quarrel with him. who seeing that Anthony neglected his Sister, and did not send for her, he continually advised, and urged her to go to her Husband, that he might have a fair occasion to fall out with him if she were not well intertained: But she, not well understanding his design, that she might prevent all controversies between her Brother and her Husband, departed from Rome, carrying with her many Jewels, and Presents which she had gotten together therewith to present Mark Anthony. But he, having fixed his heart upon Cleopatra, wrote to her by the way that she should go into Greece, and stay at Athens, till he returned from the Parthian War, yet did he never go against them, Cleopatra hindering him. Notwithstanding Octavia sent all those things which she had brought, to her Husband, and all this not prevailing to procure her acceptance, she went full of grief to Rome.

Then did Octavian begin openly to complain of Mark Anthony, and to declare himself his Enemy, and Mark Anthony, entered into a League with the King of the Medes, the better to strengthen himself, causing Cleopatra (besides the Title of Aegypt) to be called Queen of Syria, Lybia, and Cyprus, and joyntly with her, a Son of hers called Caesarion, of whom Julius Caesar left her with Child when he was in Aegypt: and to two Sons which himself had by her, called Ptolomy, and Alexander, he gave the Title of Kings, to Alexander, of Armenia, and Parthia: and to Ptolomy, of Cilicia, and Phoenicia; hereupon the enmity between Octavian and him greatly encreased: yet was the War deferred because of other Wars which Octavian had in Illyricum, and Dalmatia. The People of these Countries,Caesars new troubles. seeing the Romans engaged in Civil Wars, rebelled, together with those of Austria, Hungary, and Bavaria, who joyned with them. This War Octavian undertook in his own Person, which was very cruel and dangerous: wherein he was twice wounded, and gave great proof both of his Wisdom and Valour: yet in the end, he not only subdued and tamed Illyricum, but both the Panonnia's, and all the neighbouring Nations with had joyned with them.

Then did Octavian return Victorious to Rome, and though a Triumph was granted him, yet would he not Triumph as then, so great was his desire to make War against Mark Anthony, who was no better affected towards him. For he levied Souldiers, procured Friends, and Armies against him, and promised Cleopatra to bring her Triumphing into Rome. Yea, she requested of him, the Rule and Empire of Rome, and he promised it her.

[Page] Matters standing upon these tearms, Mark Anthony sent his Wife Octavia a Bill of Divorce, according to the custom of those times, commanding her to go out of his House,Quarrels betwixt them. wherein she dwelt in Rome. This, and other indignities Octavian imparted to the Senate, complaining against Anthony, and in his Orations to the People, he accused him for that (the second five years of his Triumvirat and League being expired) yet came he not to Rome, neither respecting the authority of the Senate, nor of the People, but held his place, and kept possession of the East and of Greece: and by such suggestions he incensed the People against him.

Mark Anthony, on the other side by Letters and Messengers, complained that Octavian had often broken the Peace, and had cast Sextus Pmpey out of Sicily, retaining that, and other places which he held to himself: and that therein he had no respect of him, nor had given him any part thereof: and that he detained the Gallies which he had lent him for that War. As also that he had deprived Lepidus of his Government, and kept all those Provinces, and all the Legions which were his, without imparting any share thereof to him: and that he had divided all the Lands in Italy to his own Souldiers, not assigning any part thereof to his. Thus the one accused the othet, either pretending that they were forced to undertake the War; whereas the truth is, it was their Ambition, and insatiable desire to Rule that pricked them forward to it. Hereupon they called divers Nations to their aid, so as the whole World in a manner,Preparations for War. either of one side or other, was in Arms. Those in the West for Octavian, and those in the East for Anthony: at least, the best and choisest men of them all.

Anthony was first in the Field, and came with a great Army to the famous City of Ephesus in Jonia, a Province of Asia the less, whither he had sent for his Navy to transport him into Europe. And he had in readiness eight hundred Gallies and Ships of burthen: two hundred whereof Cleopatra gave him, together with all the Ammunition, and Victuals necessary for the Fleet: He also took her along with him, contrary to the advise of all those which were of his Counsel. Then sailed he to the Isle of Samos, to which he had appointed all the Kings, Tetrarchs, and People which served under him in this War, to come by a day prefixed. The Kings that met him there, were Tarcondemus, King of the upper Cilicia: Archalaus, of Cappadocia: Philodelphus, of Paphlagonia; Methridates, of Comagena, and others: Besides those which sent there Forces, as Herod, King of Judaea: Amyntas, of Lycaonia: and the Kings of Arabia: Of the Medes: and Palemon, King of Pontus with some others. So that he had one hundred thousand well trained Footmen, and twenty two thousand Horse, besides his Navy by Sea, which consisted of five hundred Gallies, besides Ships of burden which carried his Ammunition, and Victuals.

If Anthony, thus furnished, had presently passed into Italy, he had put Octavian into great hazard: For then he had not sufficient Forces to have withstood him, nor other necessary Provision for the Wars. But Mark Anthony, Anthony: imprudence. delaying the time at Athens, let slip the opportunity, and gave Octavian leasure to provide all things necessary from Italy, France, Spain, and all other his Provinces, from whence he levied eighty thousand choise Souldiers, and above twenty thousand good Horse: and seeing that Anthony stayed so long,Caesars message. he sent him word, that seeing he had Ships, and other fit provision, he should come for Italy, where he staid in the Field to give him Battel, promising to afford him good Ports and Havens, where he might safely land without interruption.Anthonys answer. To this Anthony answered, that it would be more honourable if he would determine this quarrel in Person against him, body to body, which he would willingly accept, though he was now old and crazed, and the other young and lusty: and if he liked not of this challenge, he would [Page] stay for him with his Army in the Fields of Pharsalia, in the same place where Julius Caesar fought with Cneius Pompey.

These Messages passing between them without effect, Anthony drew his Army by Land, and his Navy by Sea towards Italy, and Octavian, imbarked his Legions at Brundusium, and crossed the Sea to a place called Torma, in the Province of Epire (now called Romania) and after some notable exploits performed, the two Armies drew neer together,They meet. as also did the Navies. Octavians Navy consisted of two hundred and fifty Gallies, but better armed, and swifter than were Mark Anthonies, though his were more in number. And Mark Anthony, being perswaded by Cleopatra (who in this also was the cause of his ruin, thereby to have the better means to fly if the Battel should be lost) would needs try his Fortune in a Sea fight, though his Army by Land had a great advantage over the other.

Anthony chose twenty thousand out of his Army and put them aboard his Fleet,They prepare to fight. and Octavian, who refused not the Sea-fight, made his provision also, and so shipping himfelf in his Gallies, he committed the charge of his Land Army to Taurus, and Anthony left his Land Forces with Canidius: and in the sight of both the Armies, these two brave Captains, with the best Navies in the World, took the Seas where they fought, for no less than the Empire of the World. Yet was the Fight deferred for three days in dispite of both Parties, the Seas rising so high that they could not Govern their Vessels. The fourth day they came to an encounter at a Cape called Accius, in Epire, not far from the place where their Land Armies stood.

The Battel was one of the most cruellest that ever was heard of, and lasted ten hours before Octavian obtained the Victory,A Battel. though Mark Anthony staid not so long in the fight. For Cleopatra in the greatest fury of the Battel, fled away in her Galley, whom seventy of her other Galleys followed: and unfortunate Mark Anthony, who all his life time hitherto had been a valiant and brave Captain, seeing Cleopatra fly, on whom he had fixed his eyes and heart,Anthony flies. shifting out of his own Galley into a lighter, followed her, without regard of his Armies either by Sea or Land, and overtaking her, went aboard her Galley, wherein he sailed three days without either seeing or speaking with her, being confounded with shame for shewing so much weekness, and at last they arrived in the Port of Alexandria in Aegypt.

His Navy which he left fighting,His mens fidelity. though now Headless and without a Captain, yet continued to make gallant resistance till five thousand of them were slain: and at last they were overcome, rather for want of a Commander then through any force of an Enemy, though Octavians light and swift Galleys were a great help to him: and so he remained Conquerour, and granted life, and pardon to the conquered, getting into his hands three hundred of their Galleys. In Anthonys Army by Land there wanted neither courage nor constancy to theit General, though he had so unworthily deserted them: and therefore they continued seven days in their Camp, ready to give Battel, without accepting any composition from the Enemy, and they would have staid longer, had not Canidius their Captain abused his trust, flying secretly from the Camp to seek Anthony, whereupon, the Army being destitute of a General, yielded to the Enemy;His Army yields to Caesar. who admitted them into his own Army, being nineteen Legions of Foot, and twelve thousand Horse. The Senators, Knights, and Noble men, that had served Anthony, many of them he fined in great sums of Money, many he put to death, and some he pardoned.

Then did Caesar sail to Athens, and being pacified with the Greeks, he distributed the Corn that was left in the War, to the Cities that were afflicted with Famine, and that were dispoiled of their Money, Servants, and Horses. And Anthony being arrived in Aegypt, chose out one good Ship of good burden, and fraught with store of Treasure, and rich Plate of Gold and Silver, [Page] and gave it to his Friends, intreating them to divide it amongst them and to shift for themselves, and he wrote to Theophilus, the Governour of Corinth, that he would provide them an hiding place till they might make their Peace with Caesar. And Caesar, of the spoils of the Enemy dedicated ten Ships to Apollo Actius.

Anthony being come into Africk went into a desart place,Anthony lives privately. wandering up and down, only accompanied with two Friends; and after a while he sent to the General of the Army which he had formerly raised for the defence of Aegypt, but he slew his Messengers, and said that he would not obey Anthony, whereupon he had thought to have killed himself, but being hindered by his Friends, he went to Alexandria, and after a while he built him an House in the Sea by the Isle of Pharos, and there lived from the Company of all men, saying, That he would live the life of Timon the Man-hater, because he was abused by his Friends, and had experience of their ingratitude, and he called this House Timonion. Yet at length he left this place, and went to the Pallace, where he spent his time in Feasting and jollity. And Cleopatra got together divers sorts of deadly poysons of poysonsome Creatures, whereof she made tryal upon many condemned persons, and amongst all, she liked the biting of the Aspe best: for it brought a sleepiness without any contraction of the members, or groaning, only causing a gentle sweating of the face, and a languishing stupidity of the senses.

At Rome many things were decreed in honour of Caesar for this Victory at Sea:Casar highly honoured. First a Triumph was granted him for Cleopatra: and a Triumphal Arch was erected at Brundusium, and another at Rome. The base of the Julian Temple was adorned with the Beaks of the Ships he had taken: There were Plays decreed to be kept every fifth year in honour of him: Processions were always to be made on his Birth day, and on the day wherein the news of his Victory was first brought. That the vestal Virgins, the Senate, with their Wives and Children should go and meet him at his return: that all the Ornaments of Anthony should be demolished & cast down: that his Birth day should be accounted unlucky: and that none of his Family should ever have the forename of Marcus.

About this time Anthony and Cleopatra sent Ambassadours to Caesar into Asia. Cleopatra demanded the Kingdom of Aegypt for her Children, and without Anthonies knowledg, sent him a Scepter, Crown, and Chair, all of Gold, as it were, delivering her Kingdom over to him: and Anthony demanded that he might live a private life at Athens if he might not continue in Aegypt. Caesar accepted of Cleopatra's gifts, accounting them as good Omens: but he would afford no answer to Anthony; and privately he promised impunity and her Kingdom to Cleopatra if she would kill Anthony. They sent also a second Ambassage to Caesar, and Cleopatra promised him a huge mass of Money; and Anthony minded him of the former friendship and alliance that was between them, and what acts they had done together: he delivered also to him Terullius, a Senator, and one of Caesars murtherers, whom he put to death: he proffered also to kill himself to obtain security for Cleopatra, yet Caesar would give him no answer.

Anthony and Cleopatra hereupon prepare for War,Anthony prepares for War. and Caesar at last marched against them, and sent Cornelius Gallus before with four Legions, who suddenly seized upon Paraetonium, the prime City of Aegypt, toward Lybia. Anthony being informed hereof, marched towards Paraetonium, hoping to draw Gallus his Souldiers to own him, but when on the contrary he had received great loss both by Sea and Land, he returned to Alexandria. Presently after Caesar took Pelusium, by the Treachery of Cleopatra, who caused Selucus the Governour to deliver it up to him, hoping to draw his love to her, yet did she disown it to Anthony.

Cleopatra had Store-houses, and Monuments, admirable both for sumptuousness and highth, which she had built by the Temple of Isis, and [Page] thither she had brought the most precious things of all her Royal Treasure, as Gold, Silver, Emeralds, Pearls, Ebony, Ivory, and Cinnamon, as also store of Lamps, and Flax: whereupon Caesar fearing that she would set fire of them, whereby he should lose such Treasures, he, to prevent despair, gave her hopes of favour, whilst he marched towards the City, and she privately forbad the Citizens of Alexandria to sally out against him; whereas openly she seemed to encourage them to oppose him.

Caesar being come before the City,Caesar pursues him into Aegypt. Anthony sallied out, and fought valiantly with him, and routed his Horse, and drave them to the very Camp, of which, at his return, he boasted to Cleopatra, and she to reward him, gave him an Headpiece, and Armour all of Gold. The next day Anthony dispersed tickets amongst Caesars Souldiers, promising them fifteen hundred Drachmaes a piece, if they would come over to him: These Caesar read to his Souldiers, rendring Anthony more hateful to them thereby, and they being exceeding angry that their fidelity was tempted, fought so valiantly at the next encounter, that Anthony was driven back out of the Field. After this, Anthony challenged Caesar to a single Duel, who answered, That Anthony had more wayes to die. He therefore considering that he could not die any way more honourably than in Battel, resolved to set upon Caesar both by Sea and Land.

Many Prodigies fore-ran the bondage of Aegypt. Prodigies. In some places it rained bloud. Armies appeared in the Air. A huge Dragon was seen amongst the Aegyptians, which hissed horribly. A Comet appeared, and the Images of the Dead. The Statues seemed to mourn: and Apis lowing heavily, shed some tears.

On the Kalends of August, Cleopatras treachery. Anthony, early in the morning, went down to the Haven, to order his Fleet. But Cleopatra caused them to revolt from him, and to joyn with Caesars Fleet: Whilst Anthony beheld this, he was also forsaken by all his Horsemen, who revolted to Caesar, and his Foot were beaten back into the City: whereupon he cryed out, that he was betrayed by Cleopatra. She fearing his anger, fled to her Monument, with one Eunuch, and two Maids, and sent Anthony word that she was dead: This he believing, desired his faithful servant Erotes, according to his former promise, to kill him: Erotes drew out his Sword, as if he vvould do it, but Anthonies back being towards him, he slew himself; who falling at his feet, Anthony said, Noble Erotes, thou hast taught me what to do, but couldst not endure to do it thy self; So taking the Sword,Anthony kills himself. he thrust it into his Belly: yet after a while, the bloud stopping, he desired those about him to dispatch him, but they all fled, which caused a great tumult.

Cleopatra from the top of the Monument perceiving it, (for the Gate was so made, that being shut it could not be again opened) she sent her Secretary to bring him into the Monument to her: Anthony was carried to the foot of the Monument, and being tyed in a Pulley, vvas vvith great pains drawn up by Cleopatra and her two Maids. It was a sad sight to see him thus drawn up, besmeared with bloud, and ready to give up the Ghost. When he came to the top, he stretched forth his hands to Cleopatra, who receiving him in, laid him on a bed, tearing her head tire, breast and face with her own hands, so that she was all gore bloud: He laboured to comfort her, and advised her to look to her affairs, and to save her life, if she could do it without dishonour, and that amongst all Caesars Friends, she should most trust Proculeius, and so gave up the Ghost.

In the mean time Dercetaeus, one of Anthonies Guard, stole his bloudy Sword, and ran away with it to Caesar, Caesar bewails his Death. telling him what had happened: Caesar then going into the inmost room of his Tent, much bewailed Anthony, his Kinsman, and Colleague, and who had been his companion in many Battels, and in the Government of the Empire. Then sending for Proculeius, he [Page] commanded him, by all means, if it were possible, to save Cleopatra alive, fearing to lose her Treasures, and that she might adorn his Triumph. Proculeius, and one Epaphroditus, coming to the Monument, laboured to perswade Cleopatra to come forth: and at last by a wile, Proculeius seized upon her, yet granted her some dayes to embalm Anthonies Body, after which they brought her into the Palace, diminishing nothing either of her wonted train, or honour, that so she might do no mischief to her self.

Caesar having conquered Alexandria, Caesar pardons the A [...]gyptians. ascended into a Tribunal, and calling the Citizens before him, who for fear fell upon their knees, he told them that he freely pardoned them for their great God Serapis his sake. He also pardoned the rest of the Aegyptians, being unwilling to put so many men to death, which formerly had done so good service for the Romans. Of those that favoured Anthony, some he put to death, and others he pardoned, either of his own good will, or at the intercession of Friends. And whereas Anthony had with him many children of Kings, some as Hostages, others upon false accusations, some of them Caesar sent home, others he joyned together in marriage, and some he kept by him. Coming to view the Tomb of Alexander the Great (which as Strabo reporteth, was of Glass) Caesar put a Crown upon it, and strewed flowers over it, and worshipped it: and being asked whether he would see the Bodies of the Ptolomies? He answered, That he would see a King, not the dead. Neither would he go to see their God Apis, saying, that he used to worship Gods, not Oxen.

Many great Kings and Captains desired to bury the Body of Anthony, but Caesar would not take it from Cleopatra, who buried it splendidly and Magnificently, and Caesar suffered her to take what Treasures she would for his Funerals. Cleopatra, through her much sorrow, fell into a Fever, and her Breast was troubled with inflammations and Ulcers, through the blowes which she had given her self, yet by the care of Caesar, and the skill of her Physician, she was recovered: after which she delivered to Caesar an Inventory of all her Treasures: and when Scleucus, one of her Treasurers, accused her for concealing some things, she leaped up, and taking him by the hair, she buffetted him soundly; at which Caesar smiling, reproved her; to whom she answered, Is it not a great matter, Cleopatras Passion. O Caesar, seeing thou pleasest to come and visit me in this condition that I am in, that I should be accused by my own Servant? If I have reserved some Jewels, not for my self, poor wretch, but that I might present Octavia, and thy Lyria, that by their intercessions I might find the more favour with thee, I hope it's no fault. Caesar was glad at this, hoping that now she had a mind to live, but she deceived him.

Shortly after she wrote a Letter, and sealing it up, she sent it by Epaphroditus to Caesar, wherein she desired to be buried with Anthony: then adorning her self in her best apparel,She kills her self. she set an Asp to her left Arm, by the biting of which, she presently died, as in a slumber. As soon as Caesar had read her Letter, he sent some in all haste to her to see what was done, who when they came, found Cleopatra dead upon a bed of Gold, in all her Royal Robes, and her two waiting Maids dead at her feet. Caesar being informed hereof, admired, and pitied her, and grieved that he was deprived of the chief honour of his Triumph; and buried her in the same Sepulchre with Anthony, finishing the Tomb which she had begun: and her waiting Women by his command were buried honourably: She lived thirty nine years, and reigned twenty two.

Caesar having setled his affairs in Aegypt, Caesars Triumpas. passed through Syria into Asia, and from thence into Greece, and so to Rome, where he Triumphed three dayes, first for his Dalmatian, secondly, for his Accian, and thirdly, for his Aegyptian Victory, which was the most sumptuous, and set forth with the greatest preparations, wherein was carried in a Bed the Image of Cleopatra, and an Asp biting her Arm. After which, Caesar enriched the Temple of his Father [Page] Julius with the Aegyptian spoyls: He also consecrated many things to Jupiter Capitolinus, Juno, and Minerva: He brought into the Cell of Jupiter Capitolinus sixteen thousand pound weight of Gold, beside Pearls and precious Stones, valued at fifty Millions of Sesterces, and Rome was so enriched with the Riches of Alexandria, that the prizes of every thing were doubled, and Interest fell from ten to four per Cent.

Thus Caesar, in the space of about sixteen years, erected the Monarchy, which his Uncle Julius had begun, and though the means whereby he obtained it are not justifiable, yet afterwards he Governed it justly, and wisely, and was one of the best Princes in the World:Caesars commendations. Gentle, Just, Merciful, Liberal, Valiant, and endued with many other Virtues; happy and successful in his affairs, and much beloved of all: and the People and Senate of Rome gave him a new Name, which before that time was never heard of, calling him Caesar Augustus, a Name which they held for holy, venerable, and of Great Majesty, and which appertained to the Gods and their Temples, concerning which Ovid thus writes,

Sed tamen humanis celebrantur honoribus omnes,

Hic socium summo cum Jove nomen habet, &c.

Fastorum.

All common Persons have their common Fame,

But He with Jove enjoyes an equal Name,

Of old most sacred things Augusta were▪

Temples that Name, and hallowed things do bear:

Yea, Auguri depends upon this word,

And whatsoever more Jove doth afford:

Let it inlarge his rule and life, let all

Our Coast be guarded with a fenced Wall.

The Senate also by Oath approved all his acts,Flat [...]ry. freed him from all tye of Laws, and that he should have as absolute power as the Laws, and that he might do all things, or not do them, according to his pleasure. And now, because the Books of the Sybils through age were worn out, Augustus gave charge to the Priests, with their own hands to write them out, and that no other should read them.

Caesar Augustus (for so now we must call him) seeing himself in quiet, and without War,Janus Temple shut up. caused the Temple of Janus to be shut, whereas they religiously observed, that during the time of War it should stand open: It had never before been shut since the foundation of Rome but twice: Once in the time of Numa Pompilius, the second King thereof, and the other after the second Punick War, when Titus Manlius was Consul. Augustus shut this Temple three times, whereof this was the first: And now living in Peace and prosperity, he omitted no part of his care in the Government of the Roman Commonwealth, and the Provinces thereof: Sending thither Praetors, Pro-consuls, and other Governours, which were excellent men, and fit for those dignities: and himself gave direction, and was very diligent in all things touching Justice, Customes, Religion, and publick buildings, so as in all things his Reign was happy, peaceable, and quiet, during all his Life.

Yet in this so happy a time, some People and Nations still affecting Liberty, laboured to shake off the Roman yoke,New troubles. and thereby molested, and disquieted the Empire, as the Spaniards, the Inhabitants of Illyricum, and the Pannonians. In Spain, the Cantabrians, the Asturians, and part of Gallicia, passing their bounds, began a War against the Empire. Augustus being informed hereof, judging it to be a doubtful War, and of importance, commanded the Temple [Page] of Janus to be opened: and determined to go against them in Person, and to send other Captains to follow his other Wars. And accordingly Augustus went into Spain, and with three Armies made War against the People aforementioned, which proved very doubtful and desperate, and lasted five years: and though he suppressed the Cantabrians, and Asturians, and drave them to their Rocks and Mountains, yet before he could wholly subdue them, he was fain to bring a great Navy upon the Coast of France, to invade the Sea coasts of Cantabria and Galizia, by which means he drave them to such extremities by Land, that they were at last forced to submit to his obedience.

Augustus his great favourite Agrippa served him faithfully in this War, whom therefore he married to his Daughter Julia, who was the Widow of his Nephew Marcellus, Spain subdued. the Son of his Sister Octavia. And thus he brought all Spain into subjection to him, above two hundred years after the Comans began to make their first Wars there. So as no Province cost Rome more Treasure, more bloud, nor more time than Spain.

This long and doubtful War being so happily finished, Augustus was so pleased with it; that he gave commandment that the Temple of Janus should again be shut, and came to Rome in great Triumph. But this Temple continued not long shut, for some Nations of the Germans rebelled, so that it was again opened. These were the Inhabitants of Noricum (now Bavaria) and the Pannonia's, (now Austria and Hungary) and the two Missia's, (now Bulgary and Servia) as also Illyricum, (now Sclavonia) and the Province of Dacia, (now Transylvania and Walachia) and some others, though at several times.

Against these, Augustus sent his Generals and Armies, amongst which were his Sons in Law, the Sons of Livia, Tiberius Nero, who succeeded him in the Empire, and his Brother Drusus Nero, of whom Livia was with child when Octavian married her: and these two Brothers (though the War lasted somewhat long) vanquished those Nations, and obtained great Victories in Germany, and the confines thereof: especially Tiberius, who in three years space subdued the Pannonia's, Illyricum, and Dalmatia; for which Victories he afterwards entred into Rome in an Ovation Triumph with great Pomp and Honour. Marcus Crassus also overcame and put to flight the Missians, a People who had never seen the Romans before. And when they were ready to give Battel, they said, Tell us who you are that seek to molest and disquiet us? We are (said they) Romans, the Lords of Nations; whereupon they replied; It shall be so if you overcome us; which fell out accordingly.

But Augustus obtained not these Victories without some crosses.Augustus his crosses. For in these Wars died his Son in Law Drusus, who was highly esteemed for his Noble acts, and great Victories; for the loss of whom, both Augustus and Livia were much afflicted: But yet his grief was greater for the mishap which befell Quintilius Varro, who was General of three Legions in Germany, and being careless, was surprized by the Almans, and himself, his Legions, and all his Auxiliaries were slain, and two Standards with the Imperial Eagles taken; for which he was so immoderately grieved, that he knocked his Head against the Wall, and cryed out unadvisedly, Quintilius Varro, Give me my Legions again: For certain months also, he suffered the hair of his Head and Beard to grow carelesly. And the very day of this unhappy accident, he did every year observe mournfully, with sorrow and lamentation.

Of his Son in Law Drusus there remained two Sons, Germanicus and Claudius, which he had by Antonia, Augustus his Neece, and Daughter of his Sister Octavia and Mark Anthony; of which Claudius was Emperour: And Germanicus married Agrippina the Daughter of Julia, Augustus his Daughter, by whom he had Caius Caligula, who also was afterwards Emperour. Augustus after many notable Victories, compelled his Enemies at length to sue for [Page] Peace, whereupon again he commanded the Temple of Janus to be shut up, and from thenceforth all things succeeded prosperously with him.

The Subjects of the Empire were now very obedient to him,Many Ambassadours come to him. and all other sent their Ambassadours seeking his Favour and Friendship. The Indians in the remotest parts of the East, and the Scythians that inhabited the North: and the Parthians, an untamed People, sent their Ambassadours to him, giving security to keep the Peace, and restoring to him the Standards and Eagles which were taken when Marcus Crassus was slain. There came also Kings, who were Friends and Subjects to the Roman Empire, to do him Homage, laying aside their Ensignes, and Royal Robes: and many of them bult Cities to his Name, and for his Honour, calling them Caesaria. So did Herod the Great in Palestine, King Juba in Mauritania, and others.

The World being thus at Peace and quietness, forty and two years being expired since that Augustus, after the Death of Julius Caesar, came to Rome; In the time of this general Peace, was the Prince of Peace, our blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ born in Bethlem, Our Saviour Christ born. of the Virgin Mary, Herod being King of Judea, placed there by the Romans, of whose blessed Life and bitter Death, as also of the order of his Ministry, and Miracles, see his Life, published by me, Anno Christi 1664. At which time there came forth a command from Caesar Angustus, that all the Roman World should be taxed, which taxing was first made, when Cyrenius was Governour of Syria, Luk. 2. 1. Out of which, a little Book was made by Augustus, in which all the publick riches were contained: as also how many Citizens, and Allies in Arms: what Navies: How many Kingdomes and Provinces: what Tribute and Customes there were: what necessary charges and Pensions went out. Shortly after, Augustus was called Lord by the People, but he did not only refuse that Title, but forbad it by a publick Edict.

Augustus enjoying so great prosperity,His Prudence and Justice. was yet nothing altered in his qualities and behaviour, as often it happens in other Princes; but rather became more mild, just, and affable, more courteous, liberal, and temperate. He established very good Laws and Orders for the reformation and abuses, and evil customes. He erected both within and without Rome many stately and sumptuous Edifices, which made him to boast concerning Rome, Latericiam inveni, Marmoream reliqui: I found it built with Brick, and left it built with Marble. He bestowed great gifts and favours upon all sorts of People. He delighted the People with Feasts, and Playes of sundry kinds, going himself in person to honour them: He sent Colonies into sundry parts and Provinces: He made excellent good Orders for the Governours and Government of the whole Empire: The like he did also for the Wars, and Martial Discipline. He shewed himself loving and sociable to his Friends and Familiars, whom he honoured and loved much, Some conspiracies against him which were discovered, he punished without rigour, being more prone to pardon than to punish. Of murmurings and defamatory Libels, he never desired to know the Authors; but answered them with gravity, giving satisfaction, and purging himself from those things which were charged upon him. He was much addicted to, and affected with Learning, and himself was very Learned and Eloquent, and compiled some notable Books. He much honoured and rewarded Wise and Learned men: yet he escaped not the tainture of some Vices,His Vices. growing through humane frailty, and his great liberty: especially he was much given to Women, though in his diet, apparel, and ornaments, he was very sparing and modest. He gave himself also excessively to play at Dice, and other Games then in use.

Thus,His Crosses. though in many things he was very happy, yet, besides his troubles and dangers, he was very unhappy in his Children and Successours. For by his four Wives to whom he was married, he had only one Daughter called Julia, [Page] by his third Wife Scribonia, and she proved exceeding wanton, and unchaste, yea, she left nothing undone in Luxury and Lust, that was possible for a Woman to do or suffer, accounting every thing lawful that pleased her. Yea, she came to that height of lasciviousness, that she kept her Feasting even in the Courts of Justice, abusing those very places with lascivious acts, in which her Father had made Laws against Adulterers. Hereupon her Father was so enraged, that he could not contain his anger within his own House, but published these things, yea, and communicated them to the Lords of the Senate. He kept himself also a long time from company, for very shame: He had thoughts of putting his Daughter to death; but at last he banished her into Pandataria, an Island of Campania, her Mother Scribonia, of her own accord, accompanying her in her banishment. Julia being at this time thirty eight years old.

For want of Sons to succeed him, Augustus first adopted his Nephew Marcellus, the Son of his Sister Octavia, to whom he first married his Daughter Julia: and Marcellus dying without Issue, he then married her to his Favourite Agrippa: who also left her a Widow, but yet he had by her three Sons, and two Daughters: Two of these Sons having been adopted by Augustus, died before him: whereupon he adopted the third, who bore his Fathers Name, Agrippa, the which adoption he afterwards revoked, for some displeasure conceived against him: and lastly, he adopted his Son in Law Tiberius Nero, and made him his Heir, whom also he married to his Daughter Julia, the Widow of Agrippa: yet this he did more through the importunity of his mother, than for any good liking that he had of him, being sorry that such an one should succeed him.

Not long after, the first Letter of his Name, that was upon the Inscription of his Statue that was set up in the Capitol,A Prodigy. fell down, being struck with a flash of Lightning; whereupon the Southsayers foretold that he should live only one hundred dayes after, which was denoted by the Letter C. and that he should be Canonized for a God, because Aesar, which remained of his Name, in the Hetruscan Tongue, signified a God. Hereupon he wrote a Catalogue of his doings, which he appointed to be engraven in Tables of Brass, and to be set over his Tomb.

Things being thus done, Caesar Augustus being now seventy six years old, and odd dayes, having Reigned above fifty six, and being the best beloved, and the best obeyed Prince in the World, Death overtook him, which was occasioned by a Flux, which held him for some dayes: and so Augustus died at Nolla in Campania, His Death. in the same House and Chamber wherein his Father Octavius died, being the nineteenth day of August, upon which day he was first made Consul: and in the fifteenth year after the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ.

He was generally lamented, and there was a universal sorrow and heaviness over the whole Empire for him. For he did wisely and uprightly Govern that Monarchy which he had gotten by force and fraud.His Character. He was of a mean stature, of a very good shape and proportion of Body, of an exceeding fair face, mixed with modesty and gravity: His eyes were very clear and bright: He was very advised in his speeches, and loved to speak quick, and briefly. His last Will and Testament was written a year and four moneths before he died, and left in the custody of the Vestal Virgins.

In his life time he vvas very desirous to reform abuses in Rome, and in the first place he corrected some disorders in the Senate, vvhom he reduced to the number of six hundred. He reformed vvhat vvas amiss in their Playes and Games, in the Knights, and in their manner of suing for publick Offices. He set Fines upon their Heads that vvould not marry, and bestovved much upon those that had Wives and Children.He was a Friend to marriage. He gave unto Hortensius tvventy five thousand Crovvns, to procure him to marry, that he might raise up issue to [Page] that Noble Family of the Hortenses. He ordained that Maids should be at least twelve years old before they married: and suffered them to kill Adulterers, that were taken in the fact, and condemned the Sodomites without pardon. He gave order that none should be put in nomination for Offices, but such as were vertuous,His temperance. and of good repute. He tied not himself to any certain hours for his meals, but used to eat when he was hungry, and that which he fed upon was neither dainty nor delicate, and he drank little Wine: Instead of a Looking-glass, he used to read or write whilst his Barber was trimming him. He never spake to the Senate or people, or to his Souldiers, but what he had first written and premeditated, though he had words at command.

He delighted to read good Authors,His Prudence. but gathered nothing more than sentences teaching good manners, and having written them out word for word, he gave Copies thereof to his familiar Friends, and sent them about to the Governours of Provinces, and to the Magistrates of Rome. He was too much addicted to Divinations, and was marvellously afraid of Thunder and Lightning. Our Saviour christ being born, all the Devils Oracles ceased, and the Oracle of Delphos was fain to confess it,The Devils Oracles dumb. and ever after remained Dumb: whereupon Augustus being astonished, caused a great Altar to be set up in the Capitol, with an Inscription, signifying, that it was the altar of the God first born. To prevent the great abuse of Usury, which undid many Families, he put into the Exchequer twenty five hundred thousand Crowns,His Charity. and suffered private men to take of it for three years, without Interest, putting in good security for the paying back of the principal: and condemned such Usurers as had taken more than the Law allowed, to pay four times as much to those who had been oppressed by them.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF TAMERLANE THE GREAT, WHO FLORISHED ANNO CHRISTI 1400.

[Page]

TAMERLANE was born at Samercand, the chief City of the Zagatajan Tartars; His Parentage. His Father was called Zain-Cham, or, as others will, Og, Prince of the Zagatajans, of the Country Sachithays (sometimes part of the famous Kingdom of Parthia) third in descent from Zingis, the great and successful Captain of the Tartars; which Og being a Prince of a peaceable nature (accounting it no less honour quietly to keep the Countries left him by his Father,His Fathers peaceable disposition. than with much trouble and no less hazard to seek how to enlarge the same) long lived in most happy peace with his Subjects, no less happy therein than himself; not so much seeking after the hoording up of Gold and Silver (things of that Nation not regarded nor valued) as contenting himself with the encrease and profit of his Sheep and herds of Cattel, then, and yet also the principal revenues of the Tartar Kings and Princes; which happily gave occasion to some, ignorant of the manner and customs of those Northern Nations and Countries, [Page] to account them all for Shepherds and Herdsmen, and so also to have reported of this mighty Prince, as if he had been a Shepherds Son, or Herdsman himself, vainly measuring his Nobility by the homely course of life of his People and Subjects, and not by the honour of his House, and Heroical Vertues, hardly to be paralelled by any Prince of that, or the former Ages.

His peaceable Father now well stricken in years, and weary of the World, delivered up his Kingdom to this his Son (not yet past fifteen years old) joyning unto him two of his most faithful Councellours,He resigns his Kingdom to his Son. Odmar and Ally, to assist him in the government of his State, whom Tamerlane dearly loved whilst they lived, and much honoured the remembrance of them being dead.

The first proof of Tamerlanes Fortune and Valour,Tamerlanes war against the Muscovites. was against the great Duke of Mosco, or Emperour of Russia, for spoiling of a City which had put it self under his protection, and for entring his Country, and proclaiming War against him:His Victory. whom he in a great Battel overthrew, having slain twenty seven thousand of the Muscovites Footmen, and between fifteen and sixteen thousand Horsemen, with the loss of scarce eight thousand Horsemen, and four thousand Footmen of his own. After which Battel Tamerlane beholding so many thousands of men lying dead upon the ground, was so far from rejoycing thereat, that turning himself to one of his familiar Friends, he lamented the condition of such as command [...] over great Armies,His merciful disposition. commending his Fathers quiet course of life, accounting him happy in seeking for rest, and such most unhappy, which by the destruction of their own kind, sought to procure their own glory, protesting himself even from his heart to be grieved to see such sad tokens of his Victory. Alhacen in his Arabick History of Tamerlane, makes this Narrative of the Battel. The Muscovites (saith he) had a great Army,His Battel with the Muscovites. which he had gathered together out of sundry Nations: and Tamerlane intending not to put up such wrongs and indignities, assembled all his Forces, and those of his Allies. The Muscovites forces were such as had been well trained up in the Wars: For having lately concluded a Peace with the King of Poland, he had from thence ten thousand very good Horsemen: There were also with him many Hungarian Gentlemen, under the conduct of one Uladislaus, who brought with him more than eight thousand Horse; so that he had in his Army about eighty thousand Horse, and one hundred thousand Footmen. Tamerlane had in his Army about one hundred and twenty thousand Horse, and one hundred and fifty thousand Foot, but not so good Souldiers as the Muscovites; for his Subjects had been long trained up in peace under his peaceable Father; and though they had been sometimes exercised, yet they wanted the practical part of War.

Tamerlanes order in his march was this, He caused all his Army to be divided into Squadrons, each consisting of six thousand Horse, save his own, which consisted of ten thousand; so that he made eighteen Squadrons besides his own. The Avantguard was conducted by Odmar, who led eight Squadrons which were flanked by forty thousand Footmen, divided on the right and left sides, who shot an infinite number of Arrows. The Battel was conducted by Tamerlane, who, with his own, led ten Squadrons, and fifty thousand Footmen, the best and choicest Souldiers of his whole Army. The Prince of Thanais, his Kinsman, led the Arereward with six Squadrons of Horse, and forty thousand Foot; his forlorn Hope consisted of some three thousand Horse, adventurers. The Muscovites fought by double Ranks with Lances, and they seemed to be a greater number than Tamerlanes, making a great noise: but Tamerlanes skill and multitude at length overcame the force and valour of the Muscovites, His Victory. the Victory bending to the Parthians side, which they pursued hotly.He is wounded in the Ba [...] tel. In this Battel Tamerlane was hurt on the side of the left Eye, and had two Horses slain under him: and indeed that day Odmar was the safeguard [Page] of the Prince,Ally slain▪ Tamerlanes Piety. but he lost Ally, who was slain with an Arrow. The Battle being ended, Tamerlane returned thanks to God publickly for his Victory, and the next day reviewing his Army, he found that he had lost between seven and eight thousand Horsemen, and between three and four thousand Footmen. The Muscovites lost about twenty seven thousand Foot, and fifteen or sixteen thousand Horse.

The Prince slacked no time after so great a Victory, but marching on, came into the borders of the Muscovites, whom he enforced this agreement. That they should become his Tributaries,The Article [...] of Peace. paying yearly one hundred thousand Duckats: That the great Duke should defray all the charges of the Wars, amounting to three hundred thousand Duckats: That he should withdraw his Army, and send back all the Prisoners: and that for the performance hereof, he should give pledges; which should be changed every year: All which being agreed to, he returned with great content and glory to his Father.

Shortly after, the great Cham of Tartary (his Fathers Brother) being grown old, and out of hope of having any more Children; moved with the Fame of his Nephew after this Victory, sent him divers presents; and withal, offering him his only Daughter in Marriage, sent him word that he would proclaim him Heir apparent to his Empire, as indeed in right he was, being his Brothers Son, and the Daughters not using to succeed in those Empires: Which so great an offer Tamerlane gladly accepted,His marriage to the great Chams Daughter. and so the marriage was afterwards with great Triumph at the old Emperours Court solemnized, and consummated, and our Tamerlane according to his Uncles promise, and his own right was proclaimed Heir apparent of that great Empire.

Thus was Tamerlane made Great, being ever after this marriage, by the old Emperour his Uncle and now his Father in Law, so long as he lived, notably supported, and after his death he succeeded him in that so vast, and mighty an Empire. Before his marriage Tamerlane would needs be crowned, to the intent that none should think that the Crown came to him by the right of his Wife,His Prudence▪ but by his own right; and during his abode in the City of Quavicai, where the old Emperour was, he was entertained with all kind of Triumphs,His agility and strength. wherein he always carried away the Bell, whether in shooting in the Bow, in changing of Horses in the middest of their courses, in Tiltings, and in all other exercises which required agility or strength; and so after two Months he returned with his Wife to Samercand; in which City he delighted exceedingly to remain, because the situation thereof was fair, and being watered with a great River, was a place of great Traffick, whereby it was made richer than any other in that Country: And whensoever be received intelligence from the Emperour his Uncle, he still imparted the same to Odmar, whom he used at his right hand in all his great affairs: There was also in his Court a Christian whom he loved much, and every one greatly respected, called Axalla, His Piety. a Genovois by Birth, brought up from his youth about his Person, for he countenanced all that worshipped one only God that was the Creator of all things. And about this time the old Emperour sent to him to stir him up to War against the great King of China, who stiled himself, Lord of the World, and Son of the Sun, who had exceeded his bounds, and incroached upon the Tartarian Empire: This was no small enterprise, and therefore before he would begin the same,His Justice. he sent Ambassadours to the King of China to demand restitution of his Lands, and the passages of a River called Tachii, which were within the Tartarian Border, and on this side that stupendious Wall builded on purpose by the Kings of China for the defence of their Country against the incursions of the Tartars: and whilst he attended for the return of his Ambassadours,His preparations against the King of China. expecting a Negative answer, he caused his forces to be assembled together from all parts, appointing their rendezvous to be in the [Page] Horda of Baschir: The old Emperour also assembled for his aid, two hundred thousand fighting men, wherein were all the brave men of his Court that were accustomed to the Wars: For this Emperour had greatly encreased his limits, and conquered a great Country, so as all these men were well trained up in the Wars, and had been accustomed to travel and pains; These were to joyn with Tamerlanes Army in the Desarts of Ergimul at a certain day. In the mean time Ambassadours which were sent, return and inform the Prince that this proud King of China wondering how any durst denounce War against him,The King of China's Pride. making this lofty answer: That Tamerlane should content himself with that which he had left him, which also he might have taken from him, &c.

This answer being heard, our Prince marched directly to his Army, gave orders for conveiance of Victuals from all parts, sent to hasten forwards his Confederates, imparted the answer to the old Emperour, caused the insolence of the King of China to be published, that all the world might know the justness of his cause;His Piety towards his Father. yet before his departure, he went to take leave of his own Father, who endued with a singular and Fatherly affection, kissed him a thousand times, made solemn Prayers for his prosperity, drew off his Imperial Ring, and gave it him, telling him that he should never see him again, for that he was hasting to his last rest; and calling Odmar, bad him farewel, requiring his faithfulness to his Son.

The Prince having performed this duty, returned to Samercand, where the Empress his Wife remained, whom he took along with him in this journey, as the manner of that Country is, and so presently departed, committing the charge and care of his Kingdom in his absence to one Samay, a man well practised in State affairs, who also had had the charge of our Prince in his youth. These things being dispatched, he marched forwards in the middest of his Army, which consisted of fifty thousand Horse, and a hundred thousand Footmen, relying principally on the Forces of the great Cham his Uncle: yet he left order that the rest of his Forces should be ready to advance upon the first command,His sickness. as soon as he should be joyned with his Uncles Army. In his march he was stayed by the way in regard some distemper of his body, contracted by reason of his change of the air, yet the Forces which Catiles, Captain of the Army of the great Cham conducted, went daily forwards. Now the news of his distemperature was bruted abroad in all places,His Policy. yet did he not neglect ot send to the great Cham, and often to advertise him of the state of his health, to the end that the same should not cause any alteration which might arise in that great Empire whereunto he was lately advanced: For he was very suspicious of a great Lord, named Calix, who was discontented with his advancement, and had not yet acknowledged him, as all other his Subjects had:The Rebellion of Calix. and indeed it was not without cause that he suspected him, for Calix being informed that the Forces of the great Cham were advanced beyond the Mountains, having passed the River of Meau, and were encamped at Bouprou, and that Tamerlane was sick, he thought it a fit time for his enterprize, and thereupon assembling the greatest part of his most faithful followers, he told them that now was the time for them to shake off the yoak of the Parthians, who otherwise would enslave them; and seeing that now their Prince was so badly minded as to translate the Empire to Tamerlane of his own mind, without calling them to Council which had interest in the election, that this was the only means to assure their liberty, which otherwise was like to be lost: He caused also a remour to be spread, that Tamerlane was very sick, the Emperour old and crazy,The Rebels subtilty. and that his Forces were far separated from him; yet like cunning Traytors, they dispatched away a Messenger to the great Cham, to assure him that they bended not their Forces against him, but were his faithful and obedient Subjects; and they only armed themselves [Page] because they would not be governed by the Parthians, their ancient Enemies.

As soon as our Prince was advertised of the pretences of Calix, he marched one days journey forward, to the end that he might approach unto Calibes, who, what face soever he set on the matter, yet hearkened what would become of Calix, that he might likewise make some commotion. This Calibes was by Tamerlane made Commander of his Avantguard,Tamerlanes Prudence. which consisted of Parthians, yet he had joyned with him the Prince of Thanais, without whom he could not do any thing. Tamerlane also gave special commandment, that the passages (which were not many) should be diligently guarded, to the end that the King of China should not be advertised of these tumults: and so giving to Odmar the leading of his Avantguard, he hasted forwards;His march against Calix. And surely it was high time for him so to do, or else all had been revolted: for Calix having assembled a hundred thousand fighting men, presented himself before the great City of Cambalu, chief of the Province of Cathai, the Inhabitants whereof came out to meet him, receiving him with all the joy that might be.

Tamerlane in his March went to Caindu, and from thence to Calatia, where he expected to meet with the forces of his native Country of Sachetai, yet did he not neglect to send forward his Army towards Cambalu, which caused the Inhabitants, to their great terrour, to think that all his forces were already on their neck. Calix perceiving that the Citizens began already to repent his entertainment,Calix leaves Cambalu. thought it not safe to remain amongst them, and therefore, withdrawing himself, he sent for his forces from all parts, resolving to meet Tamerlane in the Field, and to put all upon the event and hazard of a Battel. He drew out of Cambalu fifty thousand men, whereof twenty thousand were Citizens, the other thirty thousand were the Garrison-Souldiers, placed there by the old Emperour, Calix having corrupted their Leaders, and so procured them to joyn with him in this revolt. In short, having assembled all his forces,The number of Calix Army. his Army consisted of fourscore thousand Horse, and one hundred thousand Footmen, which he gathered from all parts.

In the mean time Tamerlanes Army marching forward, his Scouts, which were two thousand Horse, had news of the Army of Calix, which came forward directly towards them, of which they speedily advertised the Emperour,Tamerlanes Prudence. who thereupon presently sent two thousand Horse more, to the end that they should keep the passages of a certain River called Brore, by which River Victuals were conveyed to his Army: as also to win time, the Prince well knowing that the motions of a Civil War are furious at the beginning, and that therefore it's best to resist slowly, always drawing them out at length, if it be possible. For when means, money, and victuals fail, the people use to be sensible of their faults, and to return home.

The old Emperour sent to him to adventure all upon a Battel, delivering up into his hands the safety of his life and estate, that thereby he might end his days in peace: By this means forces came to Tamerlane on all hands, whose Army daily encreased; whereas on the contrary the Enemies Army was then in its chiefest force, and began to feel the want of Victuals.

Calix was about forty years old, a Captain renowned with the great Cham, and one of the chiefest in dignity and place about him, so that many of the Tartars had always respected him as a Person most worthy of the Empire, if the glory of Tamerlane and his reputation had not so far exceeded.

The Armies began to be in view one of another about eight a clock in the morning,The Battel between Tamerlane and Calix▪ and many skirmishes began betwixt them before they came to the main Battel, The place wherein they met at that time, was a great Plain, with like advantage on either part. Odmar led the Avantguard, wherein [Page] were forty thousand Horse, and eighty thousand Foot, which he divided into three Squadrons; the first whereof he sent before him to begin the Battel. Tamerlane marched in the same order, but his Squadrons were much stronger. The Footmen of both made the right and left Wings. Tamerlane had drawn out six thousand Parthian Horsemen, and two thousand Tartarians for his Arearguard, which he committed to his faithful Servant Axalla; a man of great judgment, quick of conceit, and in great esteem amongst the Souldiers, although, he being a Christian, worshipped God in another manner than they did; and he had many other Christians with him, whom he had drawn from the Georgians, and the Euxine Sea, who fought with great agility.

Calix on the other side, who was a well spoken man, was exhorting and encouraging his Souldiers to fight for his Fortune, and the Liberty of their Nation; He divided his Army into three main Battels, himself remaining in the midst,Calix beaten and taken prisoner. encompassed with his Footmen, and so the Battels joyned, where, after a terrible fight, Calix fell into Axalla's hands, being taken fighting valiantly, which Axalla caused to be presently proclaimed through the Army, to the overthrow of the courage of all the Adversaries, who hereupon immediately fled.Calix condemned and executed. Calix was kept till the next day, and then by a Council of War was adjudged to death; whereupon Tamerlane caused his head to be stricken off, the which he sent as a present to the Inhabitants of Cambalu: The like he caused to be done to all the chief Leaders, not out of a cruel disposition, but enforced thereto by necessity, knowing very well that the way to cut off the foot of Civil War, is to punish the Heads of the same, which, as Hydra's, grow up too fast.

After this,Tamerlanes march into Cathay. Tamerlane with his Army marched into the Kingdom of Cathay, a Country rich in grass, and all kind of pastures, abounding with great quantity of beasts and people, which knew not what War meant, and the Prince gave command that they should not be used as Enemies, but as his good Subjects; and whereas divers Cities had adhered to Calix, they came now and humbled themselves before him, craving pardon, which he gave them, enjoyning them only to provide victuals for his Army, which also they willingly did. This example of Lenity of was no small importance for the appeasing of others, which had put all their hope in extremity, resolving to sell their lives dear, and especially the Inhabitants of Cambalu had taken this resolution, but being informed of the Emperours clemency,Cambalu yielded to him. they changed their purpose: Yet as the Army daily approached nearer, their fears encreased, but Tamerlane was daily informed by his Friends in the City, that the Inhabitants resolved to obey the Conquerour, and therefore leaving his Army at Gonsa, he only sent thirty thousand to the City, which was the ordinary Garrison, and within two hours after, entred the City himself, where he was received with great magnificence: yet would he not pronounce their pardon, but referred all to the old Emperour, and to the ordinary course of Justice: For which end he sent one of his Favourites to the old Emperour, to certifie him of his Victory, of the death of Calix, and that the chief of his Faction remained Prisoners with him; as also to know what Justice he would appoint to be inflicted upon those Citizens which were the authors of the revolt of this City,His departure from Cambalu. and so after eight days he departed, and not many days after, he had intelligence that the great Cham, His Policy. his Uncle, had caused justice to be done on the chief movers of sedition in Cambalu, so that the People complained of the old Emperours cruelty, but commended the mercy of Tamerlane.

When he came back to his Army, he was received of all his Souldiers with loud acclamations, calling him, Most Great Emperour, and most Victorious. Amongst his Captains he discoursed of the beauty and greatne [...]s of the City of Cambalu, and afterwards asked Odmars advise whether it were not [Page] best for him to visit the old Emperour, and with his Emperess to spend the Winter with him at Quinsay? Odmar, Odmars good Counsel. remembring the honour which he had received there, easily perceived his inclination to that journy, yet by all means disswaded him from it: To which Tamerlane answered, that he had always found his fidelity and love to him, which he was sorry that he could not recompence to the full; But (saith he) whereas I had thought to give my self some ease: I perceive that instead of the delicacies, and pleasures of Quinsay, I must make the desarts of Cipribit my resting place after my travels in this new Victory: yet a rumour being spread that the Prince intended to visit the Emperour, every man began to desire to return into his own Country, hoping to enjoy the sweetness of his native soil: which Tamerlane being informed of, calling his Army to a Rendevouz,Tamerlanes Speech to his Army. he thus spake unto them, We have (my faithful Souldiers) begun an enterprise against the King of China, who hath of late repulsed even beyond the Mountains, the Tartarian name, but were hindred to our great grief by the foolish rashness of Calix, and were driven to turn the bridle to punish him, wherein you have all assisted me. It grieves me that I cannot as well boast of the fresh spoils of a stranger, as I may (by the means of your weapons) of those of our unfaithful Subjects, and as in times past of the fierce Muscovites, against whom, with your assistance, I made trial of my first Arms: but for this last Victory being against our own Subjects, I cannot speak of it without shedding tears; desiring to bury such Victories in oblivion, together with all the glory and honour gotten thereby. Neither do I recount these things to you, but to shew that I forget not your faithfulness, and the great travel you have endured for my sake: We must not therefore be weary, but must turn our weapons against those which imagine us to be full of troubles, whereas we are indeed Victorious: Our companions, and all our amunition is advanced near to our Enemy already, we must in that place (my Souldiers, and friendly Followers) pass over the rest of Winter; Our Companions look for us; our Enemies are secure, and look not for us at this season of the year, and know that our Army that is already there, is not sufficient for offence, but only for defence. You shall receive double pay, the better to furnish you against the injury of cold; and as we shall be apparelled with double garments, so I hope we shall be cloathed with double glory.

Having thus spoken, his Souldiers all cryed, One God in Heaven, and one Emperour on Earth, shewing their willingness to obey his commands.

The Prince after this, remained there eight days longer, sending back Zamai with twenty five thousand Horse, and fifty thousand Foot to Sachethay, for the safety of his estate in those parts:His Piety. and so after solemn and publick Prayers, the Army began to march forwards: He forgat not likewise to dispatch away a Messenger to the Great Cham, to acquaint him with all his purposes, which he approved very well of: By the same Messenger he also beseeched him in the Spring to send him fifty thousand men to recruit his Army, and some moneys for the payment of his Souldiers, which also he granted; sending also good store of warlike munition, and plenty of Victuals, knowing how much the success of the War would advance the Tartarian greatness and profit.

The Army being upon their March, in thirty eight days came to Cipribit, yet met with many inconveniences by the way.His march towards China. There they had news of Calibes, who was glad to hear how businesses had passed, and came to visit the Prince, who entertained him very courteously, acquainting him with his purpose, and also understood by him how all things passed in the Kingdom of China. The next day the Prince came to Pazanfou, where Calibes Forces were, who had often fought with, and tried the valour of the Chinois, but found it much inferiour to their own: There the Prince took a general Muster of all his Army, caused them to be paid, took notice of their countenances, whilst they all cryed out, God save the victorious and invincible Emperour, according to their custom.

[Page] The Prince of Thanais, who commanded the Army with Calibes, had diligently viewed the Wall, and the ways by which he might forcibly enter into China, and had sent many Spies by certain ways through the Mountains into that Country, by whom he was advertised of all their proceedings: He had also gained by his courtesie, a Lord of those Mountains, called the Lord of Vauchefu, that commanded over a great Countrey, who being desirous of a new Master, and to submit to Tamerlane, had told the Prince of Thanais, that he was able to do Emperour good service, and to help him much in his Wars against the Chinois: A Chinois Lord comes to Tamerlane. This the Prince of Thanais discovered to Tamerlane, who was very desirous to speak with this Lord; whereupon a day was appointed, and Tamerlane without moving of his Army, went to the Tents of the Prince of Thanais, where this aforesaid Lord met him; and the Emperour having heaped upon him many gifts of fair Horses, and rich Furs, and other rare things; this Lord spake thus unto him, Know, my Lord, that it is but lost labour for you to think that with your Armies you shall be able to force this Wall, His Speech to Tamerlane. made by the Chinois to hinder the incursion of your Subjects: the Defendants have too much advantage therein; I doubt not of your Souldiers valour and courage, I know you have conquered many Nations with them, and that whatsoever you command them, they will effect it, or die in the enterprise: I know that you have great and wise Captains with you, and that you, of all Persons in the World, are most worthy to command them: But all this will be but in vain against the Wall of the Chinois, where, I assure you, are fifty thousand men to keep it; neither can you stay there so short a time, but there will come fifty thousand more to assist them, led by one Xianxi, who had already received such a commandment: The King of China will himself follow, who will give you Battel with two hundred thousand Horsemen, and as many Foot; and though happily your Fortune, and valour may carry away the Victory, yet I believe it will cost you dear: But to shew you how much the reputation and courtesies of your Servants have prevailed with me, I will direct you in a way whereby fifty thousand of your men may go into China, whom I my self will conduct, and they shall come upon those which guard the Wall, in a manner before they are discovered. In the mean time you shall lead your Army to a place which I will direct you to, where you may win easily a Mountain which will give you great advantage against the Chinois. For I assure my self, that when they shall perceive your men to be passed; they will lose their courage, so that you may easily win the passage to assist your Army, which shall be led by me amongst them; and to assure you of my fidelity, I will deliver into your hands my Wife, my only Son, and two little Daughters. I have also one Brother, who, I assure my self, will follow me to do you service.

The Emperour having heard this, much rejoyced at it, hoping that his affairs would succeed happily, and kept this very secret, no revealing it to the Prince of Thanais himself, none being present at the discourse but the Lord and his Interpreter, and so heaping new favours upon him, he was conducted back by the Prince of Thanais with all the honour that might be.

Then the Emperour returned to his Quarters, and the next day imparted the whole matter unto Odmar; and then calling Calibes, he asked what he had learn'd concerning China during his abode there: To which Calibes made this Answer,Calibes speech to Tamerlane. Know, my Lord, that I am your slave to obey you; but seeing you command me to give you an account of all I know concerning the Kingdom of China, for that I have remained these six moneths upon the borders; I can assure you, that the King of China who now reigneth, is of great reputation, and hath encreased the Limits of his Kingdom more than any of his Predecessors: His strength consisteth in this wall, opposed against us, which he hath made to prevent the inrodes of our Nation: I believe there are above fifty thousand to defend it, and that of his best[Page]trained Souldiers, and I know no good means to force this Wall without much hazard, and great loss of your men.

To this Tamerlane answered,Tamerlanes confidence of success. I hope that the great God, whose honour I will defend against those Idolaters, will find out means to effect it; and so dismissing Calibes, he appointed his Army to remove to a certain place, where he meant to chuse out fifty thousand men, whom he would deliver to the Prince of Thanais, and Axalla; which accordingly he did, and directed them to follow this Chinois Lord, who was now again come to him, and to do as they should be directed by him: In the mean time himself, with all the rest of the Army approached the Wall directly over against Quaguifou.

The Army,Forces sent into Chini, led by the Prince of Thanais, having marched ten Leagues by the conduct of the Chinois Lord, entred without resistance, and after a short repast, they marched directly towards those that guarded the Wall, who suspected no such matter, but only had an eye to those which came to force the Wall.The wall forced. But it fell our far otherwise, for just as Tamerlane with his Army came to the Wall, they saw Axalla with twenty thousand, being followed by the Prince of Thanais, His first victory in China. with thirty thousand choice Souldiers more, who, without any words, fell upon the Chinois; and Odmar, who gave the first assault upon the Wall, easily in that distraction brake through, and so the Chinois were cut off between the two Armies: and Axalla, before the Prince of Thanais came up to him, had routed them; Great riches were gotten that day, and the King of China's Cozen was taken Prisoner; much Gold was found, as well on their Arms, as on their Horses Furniture, but they shewed no great valour.

The news of this overthrow being carried to the King of China, The King of China's fear. who was now at Quantifou; it brought great astonishment to him, for that he judged it impossible to have been effected, so that every one was filled with tears, fears,The King of China's superstition. and lamentations for their friends. Yet the King gathers forces from all parts, calling also the Priests, and such as had the charge of his unholy holies, to come unto him, commanding them to offer sacrifices to their gods, whereof the Sun is principal, requiring the same to be observed through all the Cities; and then that every one that was able to bear Arms, should mount on horseback, and speedily repair to the King at Paguinfou, whither he suspected that Tamerlane would march, for that it was one of the Cities nearest to the borders.The wall beaten down. In the mean time Tamerlane beat down the Wall, the better to assure his return, as also the Forlresses upon all the passages, all which, upon his Victory, were easily surrendred to him. He shewed himself very courteous to the people upon the Mountains, and gave to the Lord that had conducted his Army, a Country which bordered upon his,Tamerlanes courtesie. wherein were seven or eight good Towns, who came and delivered the Keyes to him: He gave him also the Government of the Frontier-Province of Xianxi, shewing himself to be a Prince of his word,His gratitude. and reserved the rewarding of his Brother till he had farther opportunity.

Whilst he was thus employed, news was brought him, that the King of China had assembled his Forces, and was marching forward, himself being there in person; as also that he had strengthened the Garrisons in all his Cities, which of themselves were well fortified. Upon his intelligence, Tamerlane called a Council of War,His Policy▪ and having heard the opinions of all his Captains, he resolved to take in some famous City, that thereby his Army might be better provided for, and then to give the King of China battel in the field. For the effecting of the first, he resolved to assault Paguinfou, which was a great City, strongly fortified, and well replenished with people; and for this end, he sent Odmar with forty thousand Horse to summon it, and to prevent the farther victualling of it, and to hinder the driving away of the cattel out of the Champion-countrey about it,He besieges Paguinfou. which might nourish his Army: He also caused the Lord Axalla (whom now he had made Lieutenant General of all [Page] his Foot) to follow Odmar vvith all his Foot, which vvere near a hundred and fifty thousand men, well trained, and expert in War, himself marching immediately after vvith all his Horsemen, Artillery, Engines, and other Ammunitions belonging to the War, directly to Paguinfou.

Odmar made such haste that he arrived unexpected by the Citizens, vvho rather looked for their King than for an Enemy: and having taken much cattel, vvherevvith that Countrey abounded, he pitched his tents on the farther side of the City: There he continued two or three dayes, giving the City many Alarms, till the Infantry, led by that brave Christian Genuois, shewed themselves in the Plain of Paguinfou: Then was the City summoned, but they returnd ansvver, That they were resolved to live and die in the service of their Prince. By the way you must understand, that about forty years before, the Father of this present King of China had conquered this City and Countrey from the Tartars, Formerly taken from the Tartars. and had so planted the same with new Colonies, that but few of the Tartarians remained, except only in the flat Countrey, and some small walled Towns, who all came with their Keys, and willingly submitted to Tamerlane, whereby he had great plenty of victuals in his Army, which made him hope for good success; there being nothing that doth sooner overthrow great Armies, than the want thereof.

Thus was Paguinfou besieged round, the footmen lying within a flight-shoot the Walls, the Citizens and Souldiers using their best endeavour for their defence, and Tamerlane doing the like for their offence.

Axalla having viewed a great Suburb, which was in length almost half a League, supposed that the Citizens kept no watch there, and therefore acquainting the Emperour with his purpose, in the first watch of the night, his men being all ready with scaling Ladders,A Suburb taken by storm. he assaulted the same in sundry places, and after a great fight entred, and cut in pieces at least eight thousand men, which were within the same; yet on one side, where they expected to be assaulted, he lost many of his men. The taking of this Suburb did greatly astonish the Citizens, who observing the valour of the Tartarians, began to suspect their own safety: By this Suburb there ran a River, which being now under the command of Axalla, he stopt all provision from going to the City.

In the mean time the King of China's Army approached, which was very great; whereupon the Emperour determined to go in person, and meet him, with the greatest part of his Horsemen, but to leave most of his Foot to continue the siege, being very desirous to take the City; for the accelerating whereof, he caused his Engines for battery to approach, as Rams, and such like; so that the City was assaulted on two sides very couragiously, and in the end, through the valour of Axalla, who gave an assault with twenty thousand of his best Souldiers,The wall won. he won the Wall, and at the command of the Emperour lodged there, who desired rather to have the City by Treaty than storm, the City being great and rich, and the Enemy but thirty Leagues from thence,Tamerlanes Prudence. and therefore he feared lest his Army should be found in disorder, and knowing also that rich Souldiers never fight well. Besides, he intended to draw out of that wealthy City such things as he stood in need of, and to make it his Magazine for the time to come. Yet though the Wall was won, the Enemies wanted not heart to defend themselves valiantly, hearing that their King was coming for their relief: but it so happened, that an Engine shooting a bullet, slew the Governour; whereupon the Citizens were so discouraged,The City surrendred. that they resolved to yield, saving their lives, and the Souldiers to march away with Horse and Arms. The conditions were admitted, and there came out of the City eighteen thousand Souldiers, almost all the Inhabitants remaining behind: This siege had lasted two months, and the City had in it at first, thirty thousand Souldiers. Axalla had the [Page] honour of winning this City, and therefore was made Governour of it, and all the Country belonging to it,Axallas modesty. but he beseeched the Emperour to bestow it upon some other Person, reserving for himself the hope of his Master, in whose fortune he would take part: This gave great content to Tamerlane, who much desired the service of Axalla; and upon his refusal, the charge was conferred upon the Prince of Thanais, with the Title of Vice-Roy: Then did Tamerlane give notice of his affairs to the old Emperour, and having paid his Souldiers, and setled all things in the best manner he could, he marched forward; and taking a general Muster of his whole Army, Horse and Foot, he found them to be diminished ten thousand men only. And so with his Army he spent one whole day in Prayer,Tamerlanes Piety. calling upon the immortal, invisible, invincible, and incomprehensible God, and then went directly to meet the Enemy, who was at Sintehu with all his own and the forces of his Allies, and as soon as he received news that Tamerlanes Army was advanced over the River of Chulifu, the King of China marched directly towards them with great magnificence:The riches of the Chinois. There was nothing to be seen in his Army, but Gold and precious Stones: He himself usually rode in a Chariot whereof every part shone with Gold, Pearls, Rubies, and Diamonds. He was of the age of about three and thirty, and had been brought up in pleasures, and not under the bloody Ensigns of Mars: So that he was very insolent in threatnings, brava▪ does, and defying to the Battel: He often accused Tamerlane for surprizing him before he was ready, not giving him warning, &c.

The rumours of his riches so fired the spirits of the Tartarians, that they longed to be at the Battel: and so both sides hasted forwards, and in the way, there was a City, called Tunichevoy, surrendred to Tamerlane, which afforded him much refreshing for his Army: And thus the two Armies drawing near together, Tamerlane Tamerlane prepares for the Battel. made choice of a place in his judgment most advantageous for the Battel; and having set down to Odmar the Order which he would have to be observed, he longed to see his Enemy; Then did he send before him five or six thousand Horse, as Scouts, under Calibes, and himself went with them, and having viewed the great confused Army of his Enemies, which came continually forward, he commanded Calibes to retire himself so soon as they drew near to him. And bring (saith he) this great cloud to me, which I hope soon to disperse: and so retiring to his Army, he encouraged them, assuring them of the Victory. He placed all his Foot-men, which were about a hundred and twenty thousand, along a Mountain, planting great store of Artillery for their guard; Many of his Foot-Souldiers were armed after the Christian manner, who were all commanded by Axalla: His Horsemen were in a Battalia in a great plain, who upon any disadvantage could retire to the assistance of the Footmen: the Horsemen were eighty thousand; Calibes with the Scythians were in the Avantguard, being thirty thousand Horse, who were to receive Odmar when he should retreat from the Enemy, as he was commanded; thirty thousand more were appointed for Odmar, and Tamerlane himself remained in the Arrear at one of the Wings of his Footmen: His purpose was to let that sixty five thousand Horse under two such Gallant Captains, to break the force of the Enemy, hoping after them to have a good market, causing his Foot to march forward, and reserving with himself twenty thousand of his best Horse, who of themselves were able to make a new Battel if any mischance should befal the former: For he understood that it was the custom of the Kings of China to enclose themselves in the midst of their Chariots with their Footmen, and not to hazard their Persons, but upon extremity.

The Chinois failed not to march directly unto Calibes, The Battel begins. the whole Army following and setting upon him: Calibes with his six thousand Scythian Horse, after their usual manner, in retreating gave many charges, giving and receiving hurt. The King of China marched with much gallantry with his Army, [Page] which seemed to be twice so big as that of Tamerlanes: He had very many armed Chariots, wherein he put his principal trust; they had much Gold and Silver, as well in the trappings of their Horses, as on their Armour, which gistred exceedingly against the Sun, to the Admiration of the Tartars. Tamerlane, who with a Troop of Horse beheld the Chinois marching after Calibes, commended greatly the drawing forth of their men to compel Calibes to fight, endeavouring to discover and note with his eye the place whereabouts the Kings person was, having by him the Chinois Lord to instruct him, who knew well the manner of their fight. They had no Avantguard, but were all in a gross, commanded by the King, inclosed within his Chariots, which being shewed to Tamerlane by this Lord, he turned to those Captains that were near him; and said, Yet must we disperse this guilded cloud, and the King of China and my self must make a partition thereof.

Thus having sufficiently viewed the Enemy, and observed their manner of marching, he thought it not convenient to suffer them to take breath, nor to rally, being something disordered in their march, whereupon he sent to Calibes to will him to begin the fight; and when those that were with him should be weary, to retreat to him: But assoon as his Scythians heard this word Fight, The Scythians charge the Chinois they required the first charge, with a young Lord that commanded over them called Ziochabanes, making it to appear to the Chinois, to what end their former flight was, charging very furiously upon the formost of the Enemies, which occasioned the first beginning of the Battel: And indeed there could not be seen a more Gallant onset, wherein the Scythians desired to manifest the valour of their Nation, and to procure honour to their Prince. This fight endured a long hour before they had overthrown Calibes: Tamerlane beheld all patiently,Tamerlanes Constancy. saying, that the great multitude (how disorderly soever they were) would at length carry it away from the order and valour of his Souldiers; yet could there not be discerned any alteration of his countenance, adversity and prosperity being both alike so indifferent to him.

Calibes being wounded,Calibes wounded retreats. retired himself near to the Emperour, having with him two thousand Horse that were rallied again, many more flocking to him: The Emperour viewed his wound, causing him to be conducted behind his Footmen, and care to be taken for the dressing of his wound, and of such others as were wounded with him. Calibes with his thirty thousand Scythians was not able to charge through the Chinois, but when they retreated, Odmar with his Parthian Horsemen advanced forward, and used them more roughly,The Parthians chargethorow. for he ran clean through them, and returned by the right wing of the Army, where he fought most valiantly, and having beaten them within the Kings Chariots, he thought he should not do wisely to attempt the breaking of such Forces.

The King of China coming forwards, and the Horsemen that had been broken by Odmar, joyning themselves to him, Odmar sent to Tamerlane, desiring him that the Footmen and Artillery might advance forward, sending him word that he might assure himself of the Victory.The Foot charge. Hereupon Tamerlane commanded Axalla to advance with fifty thousand Foot, and part of the Artillery, requiring him to set upon the Chariots, and to make an entrance. The Artillery marching in the first place did greatly astonish the enemy; for the Governours of the Horses belonging to the Kings Chariots could not rule them; it made also a great spoil. Axalla perceiving the disorder, hasted forwards till they came to hand-blows. The King of China had yet about his Person a hundred and fifty thousand men: Yet Axalla, full of courage, fought so valiantly,Axalla valour. that they never beheld any man to do more bravely. During this fight, Odmar again charged the Horsemen that were retired to the Kings aid, and put them to flight. Then did Tamerlane himself march forward with the rest of the Footmen for the aid of Axalla, Tamerlane chargeth. and brake through, [Page] even to the Person of the King of China, who as yet was enclosed within a second rank of Chariots, with about thirty or forty thousand men, and after he had fought two or three hours,The King of China beaten. the Horse assisting the Foot, and they principally whom the Prince had kept as a reserve, the King at length remained wounded, in the power of Tamerlane: The battel being won, and the enemies Camp forced: The fight endured eight hours, and the night coming on, saved the lives of many of the Chinois. There were slain two Kings, Allies to the King of China. Inestimable riches were gotten in golden Vessels, precious stones, and as fair and rich Chariots as could possibly be seen.

The Emperour would not see the captive King till the next day: but being mounted on horseback, he rode about the field to stay the slaughter, and to rally his men, that the accustomed watch might be kept, whereof he gave the charge unto Axalla, commanding him also to keep the King of China in the midst of his Souldiers, who was dressed of the wound which he had received in his right arm. It was a strange sight to see the diversity of the Enemies Weapons, and the variety of their Streamers and Ensigns, which seemed afar off as beautiful, as the diversity of colours plentiful. The King of China's Army was very great, consisting of a hundred and fifty thousand Horse, and two hundred thousand Footmen: but the greatest part of them were rude and barbarous people, far inferiour to Tamerlan's in Valour, who suffered themselves to be slain one upon another, not marking their advantages, and having little skill in warlike affairs.

Tamerlane continued on horseback till about two a clock in the morning,Tamerlanes temperance. when as they brought him a Tart, and his Water, for he never drank Wine, and then lying down upon a Carpet, he passed the rest of the night until morning.His humility and modesty. After this so great a Victory, there was never the least boasting or vaunting heard to proceed out of his mouth.His Piety. The next day, after the burial of the dead, he publickly gave thanks to God for his Victory. Then caused he the wounded to be cured, and amongst others, Calibes, who, more through the distemperature of the air, than from the danger of the wound, found himself very ill, yet would he not omit his duty in commanding the Van, which was very grateful to Tamerlane, for that he being a Scythian, was greatly beloved of his Nation.

These things being dispatched, he sent unto Axalla to bring forth his prisoner, the King of China; and when he approached, the Emperour issued out of his Tent,The King of China brought before him. and went to receive him. This King came with a very proud and haughty countenance, and approaching near to the Emperour, he, by his Interpreter, asked of Axalla, which was he? and being shewed him, he spake in an haughty language after this manner;The King of China's proud speech. The gods whom I worship, being provoked against my Nation and People, have conspired against my good fortune, and made me this day thy prisoner: But forasmuch as it is reported over all the world, that Tamerlane maketh war for the honour of his Nation, thou shouldst be content with this thy glory, that the Lord of the world and child of the Sun, is in thy power, to receive such Laws as thou pleasest to subscribe unto him. This he spake in a brave manner,Tamerlane's Courtesie. without any other humbling of himself: The Emperour on the other side saluting him very courteously, led him into his Tent.

This King of China was a great Prince, having two hundred famous Cities within his Kingdom;The riches of China. which also is a fruitful and plentiful Countrey, wherein are Mines of Gold and Silver, much Musk and Rliubarb: It abounds in Fish and Fowl, and hath much Silk and Porclane, with Cotton and Linnen, &c.

Then did Tamerlane assemble his Captains to consult about the disposal of the King, and how the Victory should be best improved. At the same time he received news by Odmar, that the Kings Brother, who escaped out of the battel, was at Quantou, which he had strongly fortified, and that great store [Page] of forces began to adjoyn themselves to him: Hereupon he commanded two thousand Parthian horse to convey the King to Paguinfou, and from thence to Burda, Quantou besieged. where he was to be kept carefully. Then did he resolve upon the besieging of Quantou, and if it were possible to shut up the Kings Brother therein, it being one of the principal seats that belonged to the King of China. It was forty Leagues from the place where the battel was fought. Thither therefore he sent a good party of his Army under Odmar, who pitched his Tents about the City: But the Kings Brother was gone. The Emperour in the mean time summoned, and took in many lesser Cities, which yielded wholly to his mercy, making great lamentation for their captive King, yet the gentleness of the Conquerour made them to take all their losses with patience, and the rather, because they heard that he used their King courteously. The Kings brother also sent Ambassadours to Tamerlane, craving leave to see the King, and to know of his health, which the Emperour willingly assented to.

Now the Kings brother hearing of the estate of the besieged in Quantou, he resolved either to relieve it, or to fight a battel, for which end, he advanced strait unto Porchio, Odmars policy. making a bridge of Boats to pass over the River: But Odmar being informed that about fifty thousand of his men were come over, he suddenly set upon them, being out of order, and not informed of their enemies approach; also to prevent the coming over of the rest to their assistance, he sent a fire-boat down the stream, against their bridge of Boats, which brake it in sunder, and where it was resisted, set all on fire; and so in a great battel overthrew them;The King of China's brother overthrown. The King of Cauchin-China, who was amongst them, fighting valiantly, was slain. The Kings Brother, who was on the other side of the River (not yet come over) saw his men slain and drowned, and could not relieve them. This second overthrow was of no small importance, though it was but the third part of the Kings brothers Army. For the Citizens of Quantou hearing of it, and despairing of relief, sent out some Proposals for their surrender.

Axalla which received them, presently dispatched away a faithful messenger to the Emperour to know his pleasure therein: This was more welcome news to him, than the overthrow of his Enemies; wherefore he referred all to the sufficiency and fidelity of Axalla: So that upon Treaty, the City was surrendred to Axalla, Quantou surrendred. who caused the Garrison to come out, and received the inhabitants into the Emperours protection, and all that would might continue in it unarmed: afterwards he entred into it, and was received with great signs of joy by the Inhabitants, who resolved to entertain the Emperour with all the solemnity that might be. Axalla put thirty thousand men into it for a Garrison, injoyning the Citizens to pay the Emperours Army four hundred and fifty thousand Crowns: Presently after he received a command from the Emperour to stay in the City himself, and to send all the rest of his Footmen unto him, which he commanded the rather, because he understood that Ambassadours were coming to him from the Kings Brother to treat of Peace,Tamerlanes Policy. and he presumed the sight of all his Army together ready to march, would strike such a terrour into them, as would cause them the readilier to assent to good terms.

The Ambassadours sent by the Kings Brother, were of their chiefest men, whom Tamerlane entertained with all humanity, causing his greatness to appear to them, as also the activity of his Horsemen, whereby they might discern that it would tend to the destruction of their Country if they agreed not with him: Then did the Ambassadours deliver their message, which consisted of two branches: One was for the delivery of their King, the other, for the preservation of their Countrey: The Emperour answered, that they should deliver their message in writing,The Ambassadours proposals. and he would give a speedy answer: Their Propositions were, that they would leave Paguinfou, and all the Country beyond [Page] it, with all the Fortresses of the mountains in Tamerlanes possession: That they would pay all the charges of his Army from that day forward: And that they would give two millions of gold for the ransome of their King. To this the Emperour answered,Tamerlane's proposals. that he would keep that which he had conquered within the Countrey, being his own, as taken by his arms: That he would have the River by which his Army was now encamped, and so along to the Sea, to be his Frontiers: That the King of China should pay him yearly two hundred thousand Crowns, which should be delivered at Paguinfou, for acknowledgment of his submission to his Empire: That he should pay five hundred thousand Crowns in ready money for the charge of his Army: That the King of China should be delivered, and that all the other Chinois prisoners should pay ransomes to particular men that took them, except those which carried the names of Kings, who should pay ten thousand Crowns for their liberty and peace: And that no Chinois should be kept for a slave, nor sold for such hereafter, being under the Emperours obedience: That Traffick and intercourse of Merchants should be free between both the Nations: That the King of China should deliver his Brother, and two other called Kings, with twelve principal men of the Countrey, for Hostages to secure the Peace: These conditions,Peace concluded. after they had consulted together, were accepted of, hoping that time would restore again their ancient liberty, and in the mean time they must bear the yoke of the Conquerour.The King of China delivered. Then did Tamerlane send two thousand Horse to fetch the King of China, that being at liberty, he might solemnly sweat to the Peace; which accordingly he did, delivered the Hostages, and so went into his Kingdom to perform the other Articles, where he was almost worshipped as a God, and received with all the joy that might be.

Thus Tamerlane, Odmar made Governour. having setled his affairs, and provided for the assurance of his new Conquest, left Odmar to govern the same, leaving with him thirty thousand Horse, and fifty thousand Foot, to furnish all the Fortresses and strong places, giving him in charge to make his chief residence at Quantifou, to fortifie well the passages, and to build a new Fort at Dermio, the better to strengthen his borders:Tamerlane's gratitude. He also left him all necessaries, and commended to him the Lord of the mountains, who had been so serviceable to him; His Brother he took with him, giving him large preferment in Zachethay: He also carried along with him many of the new conquered people, to plant them in his own Country,His Prudence. sending other Colonies in their stead, which he did, because he found them a light people, and such as affected novelty.

Tamerlane sent to acquaint the old Emperour with all these things,His possessions in China. having two of the greatest and fairest Cities in all China in his possession, and an hundred Leagues of Land, extending his borders to a River, by which he might go to the Enemy, but they could not come to him without passing over the same: He desired also above all things, that all the Idols which were within his Conquest should be beaten down, and commanded the worshipping of one God.

Then did his Army,His return into Tartary. wherein was much sickness, begin to march, and Tamerlane hearing of more Forces that were coming towards him out of Tartary, he sent to stop them, commanding them to march to Cambalu, whither himself also was going, hearing that the old Emperour intended to meet him, and to entertain him with great magnificence in that City.

Odmar being thus severed from Tamerlane's side, all his favour was turned to Axalla, of whose Prudence, Valour, and Fidelity, he had such large experience in these Wars, so as the report of his Valour did fly through all the Empire. In the retreat Calibes led the Avantguard, and Axalla was in the Battel near to the Emperour,His liberality. who bestowed upon him two hundred thousand [Page] Crowns yearly, to maintain his ordinary expences. And thus, after certain dayes journey, news was brought of the old Emperours arrival at Cambalu: wherefore Tamerlane, leaving his Army to Winter in a fair and fertile Countrey, and dismissing many of his Souldiers, he hasted thitherwards, and when he was arrived within four Leagues of Cambalu, His entertainment at Cambalu. all the Princes of the Emperours Court came to receive him there, together with all the chiefest Citizens, to congratulate his admirable success: The Prince received every one according to his wonted courtesie, yet retaining convenient Majesty, and was beheld by all with great contentment: He had with him the Empress his Wife, who had not left him in all his journey: And the next day the old Emperour honoured him so much as to come to meet him, with all the magnificence that might be.His presents to the old Emperour. Tamerlane presented him with all the richest Chariots, and fairest Horses that he had won: and the old Emperour being very desirous to see his Daughter, her Chariot was uncovered, and he caused her to enter into his own: But the Prince remained on horseback, whom the eyes of all the people could not be satisfied with admiring. Tamerlane also presented Calibes to the Emperour, making a recital of all his faithfulness; whereupon the Emperour gave him an hundred thousand Crowns for the increase of his pension: He also presented Axalla to the Emperour, who being informed of his Valour, gave unto him a hundred thousand Tartarines of Gold in a Principality, that he might declare how much he esteemed his fidelity.

During Tamerlane's abode at Cambalu this Winter,He is stirred up against Bajazet. complaints came to him that Bajazet the Great Turk had attempted to joyn the Empire of Greece to his own, resolving also upon the siege of Constantinople, whereupon the Emperour of Greece sent to him to crave his aid. Axalla, who was of kin to this Emperour, Paleologus, being desirous to maintain the Christian Religion in Greece, He sends Ambassadors. stirred him up much to this War: Whereupon he sent Ambassadours to Bajazet, to warn him in his name, not to molest the Greek Emperour, who was his Confederate:Bajazets proud answer. But Bajazet answered them very proudly, asking them what their Master had to do therewith? and that he should content himself with injoyning Laws to his own Subjects, and not to meddle with him who was none of them.

This answer being returned, by Axalla's means, was very ill taken, so that Tamerlane resolved to hinder this enterprize of the Ottomans: Tamerlanes preparations against him. for which end, he obtained of the Emperour his Uncle, an hundred thousand Footmen, and eighty thousand Horsemen, hoping to have as many from his own Countrey of Sachetai, besides the Lords who would accompany him to win glory, from whom he made account of fifty thousand men more that they would bring along with them. Thus he departed from Cambalu, taking his leave of the old Emperour, his Father in Law, and of the Princess his Wife, (then left behind him for the comfort of her aged Father) and departed towards Samercand, the place of his Birth, and seat of his Empire, leaving the Forces granted him by the Emperour, to come after him to Ozara, where he had appointed the general rendezvouz of his Army. This his departure was very grievous to the old Emperour, but more grievous on the Princes part towards his Wife, who had never left him since they were first married: But nothing could withhold this brave Prince, where honour was to be purchased, or where he might be profitable to his oppressed Friends,Tamerlanes speech. For he would often say, That he was born to this end, and that all his other employments were but by the By, God having appointed and called him to punish the pride of Tyrants.

He was accompanied with Calibes, and made the Prince of Thanais Collonel of all his Footmen, which place Axalla had left, whom now he made Lieutenant General of all his Army, with command to lead his Avantguard, and Calibes the Arearward. Forces came to him from all parts; and the Chinois Lord, being licensed by Odmar, marched towards him with twenty thousand [Page] men of his Subjects newly conquered, being desirous to shew his forwardness to the Emperour, as also to learn the manners and fashions of strange Countries.His entertainment at Samercand. When Tamerlane came near Samercand, Zamay went to meet him, and near a million of people, blessing and praising him with all manner of Songs: There he remained about a month; In which space Axalla had rendezvouzed his Army at Ozara, from whence also he advertised Tamerlane of the proceedings of Bajazet. Then did Tamerlane send for him to Samercand, to confer with him about the setting forward of his Army. For although he was still accompanied with renowned Princes, and famous Captains; yet were they no body in comparison of Axalla, whose sound Judgment and Counsel had won him such credit with his Lord and Master, as by his advice he did all things, and without him nothing, which his so great Authority and Favour with his Prince wanted not the envy of the Court;Envy attend [...] vertue. but that his great Vertues, and rare-found Courtesie (in so great fortune) together with so many great services as he had done, supported him against the malice of the same. He upon this command from Tamerlane, leaving the charge of the Army at Ozara with the Prince of Thanais, came to Samercand, and there discoursed with him at large concerning the estate and order of his Army; and so, shortly after, they all departed to Ozara, where a new consultation was held, by which way he should conduct his Army: as whether it was better to lead them by the coast of the Muscovite, directly towards Capha, or on the other side of the Calpian Sea, by the skirts of Persia; and after much discourse and sundry opinions, with their reasons delivered, it was resolved, (although the way were the longer) to pass by the Muscovite, so to come to the Georgians, and to Trepizond, and from thence to enter into the Ottamans Kingdom.

This being resolved on,His march towards Bajazet. they marched forward, till at length they came to Maranis, where he stayed three dayes, looking for the China Forces, whereof they received news; There also Tamerlane mustered, and paid his Army; He had also news of fifteen thousand Horsemen sent him by the Muscovite, His Auxiliaries. with a sum of money, with leave for him to pass through so much of his Territories as should be necessary, being glad that he set upon others; rather than on himself; and that such great preparations should fall upon them, whose greatness was as dreadful and dangerous to him as any other.

Tamerlane caused a great quantity of Victuals,His Prudence. and most part of the furniture of his Army to be sent along the Caspian Sea, which was a great case and commodity to his men, which, marching by Land, was of necessity to pass some twenty Leagues through places destitute both of Victuals and Water; Himself all the way coasting along the Sea-shore, passed his time in Hunting and Hawking, to make the journey less tedious, his Army not coming near him by ten Leagues, which was so great, that it extended it self full twenty Leagues.

Coming to the River Edel, he stayed at Zarazich, whilst his Army passed the River at Mechet, and over two other Bridges that he had caused to be made of boats for that purpose. Now the Circassians and Georgians hearing of the approach of Tamerlane with his huge Army, by their Ambassadors offered him all the help and assistance they could afford him in his Journey, as he passed that way.The Georgians assist him. These Georgians were, and yet are Christians, a great and Warlike people, of long time tributaries to the Greek Emperours; and afterwards sometime tributaries, and sometimes confederates to the Persians; but alvvayes enemies to the Turks, and therefore glad they were of Tamerlanes coming against them. Of these Warlike people Axalla drew great numbers to the service of his Prince, who not a little esteemed of them, being all tall men, very beautiful, of great strength and courage, and withall, most expert souldiers, [Page] as having many times resisted the power of the Ottoman Kings, by reason of the advantage of their Country, which was rough, mountainous, and hard to come to.His strict Discipline. These people every where kindly entertained Tamerlane, and plentifully relieved his Army with all necessaries. In passing through which, and other Countries, he took such order with his Souldiers, that none of the people by whom they passed were any whit injured by them, insomuch that if a souldier had taken but an Apple or any other trifle, he died for it. And one of his souldiers having taken a little milk from a Countrey-woman, and she thereof complaining, he caused him presently to be hanged, and his stomack to be ript, where the milk that he had lately drank being found, he payed the woman for it, who had otherwise without mercy died for her false accusation: Which his great severity was indeed the preservation of his Army, being so great, as that it was thought impossible to provide it with Victuals, whereof yet there was no want, nor of any other thing necessary for the relief of man: his Camp being still as a most populous and well-governed City, stored with all manner of things, whereunto both Artificers and Merchants resorted from far Countries with their Commodities, as to some famous Mart: and the Country people from every place, without fear, brought in their Country-commodities, for which they received present money, and so departed in peace.

So marching on, he at length came to Bachichich, where he stayed to refresh his Army eight dayes, and there again took a general muster of them, finding,His huge Army. as some write, four hundred thousand Horse, and six hundred thousand Foot; but others that were present with him, say, three hundred thousand Horse, and five hundred thousand Footmen of all Nations: There also he generally payed them, and as his manner was, made an oration to them, informing them of such Orders as he would have observed, with much other Military Discipline, whereof he was very curious with his Captains.

In the mean time,Bajazets Pride. Bajazet would not believe that Tamerlane durst once look towards him, yea, so exceeding barbarous was he, that he would not so much as suffer any man to speak of him, or his Army to him, by reason of his pride: He also strictly forbad all the bordering people to make any Vows or Prayers for Tamerlanes prosperity: But he was soon after awakened out of this Lethargy, as we shall presently hear. Indeed Tamerlane could hardly be perswaded, that Bajazet, having subdued the greatest part of Grecia, and much distressed the Greek Emperour, and having so great means to recover whatsoever he should lose in Asia, would be so adventurous as to come over the streights out of Europe, to try the fortune of a battel with him: but rather warily to protract the time, to weary him with wants, that in a strange Country, drew such a world of people after him: wherein yet he found himself much deceived; for when he had passed the Georgian Country, and was come to Buisabuich, Axalla (whom he had not seen in eight dayes before, because he commanded the Avantguard of the Army) came to him with such news as he knew would be most grateful to him:Bajazet advanced towards him. Which was, that Bajazet had raised his siege before Constantinople, to come and defend his new Conquests in Asia, and that he was certainly resolved to come to a pitched Battel with him, not so much trusting to the multitude of his men, as to the experience and valour of his souldiers, being long trained up in the Wars. At which unexpected news Tamerlane greatly rejoyced, yet without insolency and vaunting, but rather with the countenance of such an one as judged the event of Battels to be alwayes doubtful;Tamerlanes moderation. saying sometimes, That a small number well conducted, did carry away the victory from the confused multitude. Three dayes after he stayed at Buisabuich, causing his souldiers continually to march forward, who,He passeth the River Euphrates. at two places, passed over the River Euphrates, which he did the rather to maintain his Army upon the spoil of the Enemies countrey, chusing rather [Page] there to attend Bajazets coming, then amongst his friends and allies. All the Cities that yielded to him in the way as he marched, he favourably received; the other that refused to submit themselves to his obedience, he used with all extremity, especially the great and strong City of Sebastia, where certain of the forerunners of his Army,Turkish Pride. were by the Turks that kept Garrison in it, cut off and slain, and to despite him the more, the City gates were set open in contempt of him: Whereupon being justly offended, he sent out certain Tartarian Horsemen, charging them upon pain of his displeasure so to behave themselves against their Enemies, that at his coming up to them he might find either the City taken, or at least the Gates shut up against him: And he had his men at so great command; that no danger was unto them more dreadful than his displeasure, neither did he punish any thing so severely as cowardize. Now the Turks in Sebastia seeing these Tartarian Horsemen marching towards the City, making little account of them, because their number was not great, issued out to meet them, where they were so furiously charged by these few Horsemen, that they were glad to retire, and for hast to shut the Gates against some of their own men, lest the Enemy should have entered pell mell with them,Turks beaten which Turks were there slain at the Gates of the City. Shortly after came Tamerlane with all the rest of his Army, and sat down before the City, where he lay still seven days not making any shew of violence at all. The defendants, because the City was of great strength, thought that his purpose was by a long Siege to distress the same: But about the eighth day, the Towers, and Walls being undermined in sundry places, suddenly fell down, leaving large breaches for the Enemy to enter; wherewith the Turks being dismayed surrendred the City to Tamerlane in hope so to have saved their lives,Sebastia taken. but he caused them all to be buried quick, and the City utterly to be razed: and then calling the Governour, whose life he had spared for that end, he bade him go and tell his Master what had happened to his strong City of Sebastia, and what himself had seen there; of which Tragical action, when the Governour had made report to Bajazet, he demanded of him whether of the two Armies he thought bigger or stronger; for he had now assembled a mighty Army of three hundred thousand Horse, and two hundred thousand Footmen; whereunto the Governour, having first craved pardon, answered: That it could not be in reason, but that Tamerlane had the greater Army, for that he commanded over far greater Countries: wherewith proud Bajazet being offended, replied in great Choller;Bajazets arrogance. Out of doubt the sight of the Tartarian hath so affrighted this coward, that he thinks every Enemy to be two. As Bajazet marched forward he heard a Country Shepherd merrily pleasing himself with his homely Pipe as he sate on the side of a Mountain feeding his small flock, whereupon he stood still, and listned to him to the admiration of many, and at last brake forth into these words,Note. O happy Shepherd, which hadst no Sebastia to lose! bewraying therein his own discontentment, and yet withal, shewing that worldly bliss consisted not so much in possessing of much, subject unto danger, as in enjoying content in a little, devoid of fears.

The rest of the Cities as Tamerlane marched forwards, warned by the destruction of Sebastia, yielded to him, the Citizens whereof he used courteously, especially the Christians,Tamerlanes favour to the Christians. whom he set at liberty for the Greek Emperours sake, whom he sought therein to gratifie.

But Tamerlane had not gone far into the Turks dominions before he was certainly informed that Bajazet was coming against him with a mighty Army,Bajazets approach. and was now within thirty Leagues of him, which caused him from thence forward to march with his Army more close together. Axalla leading the Van, sent forth Chianson, Prince of Ciarchan, with four thousand Parthian Horsemen, to get knowledg of the Turkish Army, and where Bajazet lay, as also what manner of Countrey it was beyond Sennas, and if he could learn [Page] any thing thereof, to make relation of it to him. This Prince of Ciarchan was Tamerlanes near Kinsman, a man of great reputation, and next to Axalla, in whose absence he had the command of the Avantguard, who also sent before him another Parthian Captain with five hundred Horsemen: who having advanced about ten Leagues and surprized Sennas, Sennas surprized by Tamerlane. was certainly informed there of the state of Bajazets Army, which was now at Tataeia, and so marching forward; which Tamerlane being informed of, commanded him not to retire from that place till he saw the arrival of the enemy, and thereof to give him advertisement every hour, resolving himself to pass on no further, being encamped in a fair large plain,His Policy. which was very advantageous for him, his Army being bigger then Bajazets, which made him make choise of those large plains. His Army also being compounded of sundry Nations, he considered that he was not to fight against the Chinois, a soft effeminate people, as of late; but against the Turks, a most warlike Nation and well acquainted with all manner of fights and warlike stratagems, and therefore he judged it necessary to proceed warily against them. Upon this consideration he presently sent for Axalla, with him to view the said place, and to have his opinion whether it would be advantageous for him to stay there or no? Axalla not misliking his choice of the place, yet withal advised him to keep Sennas as long as possible he could: and accordingly he sent word to them at Sennas, that when they could keep the place no longer, they should set fire on it, and so retreat, and this he did, that the Enemy should have no desire to encamp there, but to march forward to those plains where Tamerlane desired to fight, the rather because he was stronger in Horse than Bajazet.

Accordingly the Prince of Ciarchan sent out a hundred Horse toward the Turks; then divided he the rest of his Forces into two parts, commanding the former, that as soon as they perceived the Enemy to pursue the hundred Horse, whom he had commanded to fly disorderly before them, that they should receive them into their Squadrons, and so retire altogether: He in the mean time with the other part stood close in a Valley near unto a Wood-side,An Ambush. wholly unseen; where having suffered two thousand of the Enemies Horse (the Vant-curriers of the Turks Army) to pass by him, he following them in the tail, charged them home, the other also which before retired, now turned again upon them; so that the Turks seeing themselves thus beset and hardly laid to both before and behind,Two thousand Turks overthrown. as men discouraged, fled: but in their flight were most of them slain, the rest of them were taken Prisoners. This was the first encounter between the Turks and the Parthians. All the Prisoners taken were by the Prince sent as a Present to Tamerlane, and amongst the rest,The Bassa of Natolia taken. the Bassa of Natolia, who led those Troops; of whom Tamerlane earnestly demanded what caused his Master Bajazet so little to esteem him, as to shew so great a contempt of his Army: Which (saith he) he shall find strong enough to abate his Pride? To this the Bassa answered: That his Lord was the Sun upon Earth,His Speech to Tamerlane which could not endure any corrival: And that he rather was astonished to see how he, from so far a Country, had undertaken so dangerous a journey to hinder the fortune of his Lord, in whose favour the heavens (as he said) did bend themselves to further his greatness, and unto whom all the world subjected it self; and that he commited great folly in going about to resist the same. Unto this proud Speech Tamerlane replied, That he was sent from heaven to punish his insolency, Tamerlanes reply. and to teach him that the proud are hated of God, whose promise is to pull down the mighty, and to advance the lowly. As for thy self (said he) thou hast already felt (though I pity thy mishap) what the valour of my Parthian Horse is against thy Turkish: and I have already caused thy Master to raise his Siege before Constantinople, and to look to his affairs here in Asia. He also asked him whether his Master did come resolved to give him Battel? Assure your self (said he) that there is nothing that he more desireth, and would to God that I might acknowledg [Page] your greatness in giving me leave to assist my Lord in that Battel? Good leave have thou (said Tamerlane) go thy ways,His release. and tell thy Lord that thou hast seen me, and that in the Battel he shall find me on Horse-back, there where he shall see a green Ensign displayed. The Bassa thanked him, and swore that next unto his Lord, he vowed unto him his service. And so returning, he related unto Bajazet how he had seen Tamerlane, and reported to him truly all that he had willed him to say,He commend [...] Tamerlane. not forgetting above all, to praise his courtesie and bounty: who besides that he had frankly set him at liberty, had also given him a very fair Horse, well furnished, although he well knew that he was to serve against himself: To this Bajazet answered no more, but that he would shortly make trial of him, and that he doubted not but before he had done with him, he should make him acknowledg his folly.

The next day the two Armies drew neer together, and encamped within a league the one of the other;Preparations for the Battel. where all the night long you might have heard a noise of Horses which filled the heavens with their neighings, and the air with sounds; and every man thought the night long that they might come to the trial of their valours, and the gaining of their desires. The Scythians (a people no less greedy, than needy) talked of nothing but the spoil; the proud Parthians of attaining honour; the poor Christians of their deliverance from an insulting adversary; all which was to be gained by the next days Victory. Every man, during the night-time, speaking according to his humour. All which Tamerlane (walking privately up and down in the Camp) heard, and much rejoyced to see the hope which his Souldiers had already conceived of the Victory: and so after the second watch, returning into his Pavilion,Tamerlanes prudent practice. and there casting himself upon a Carpet, he purposed to sleep a while; but his cares not suffering him so to do, he then (as his manner was) called for a Book, wherein was contained the Lives of his Fathers and Ancestors, and of other valiant Worthies, which he used ordinarily to read in, as then also he did: not vainly to deceive the time, but to make use of it, by imitating that which by them was worthily done, and declinining such dangers as they by their rashness, or oversight fell into. After which, having slumbred a little, he commanded Axalla to be sent for to him, who presently came, accompanied with divers other Great Lords and Captains of the Army, with whom after he had consulted a while about the order of the Battel, himself presently mounted on Horseback, and sent each of them to their charge to see their orders put in execution: At which very instant he received intelligence that the Enemy was marching forwards, and come to chuse his Ground for the Battel, whose order of marching Tamerlane was very desirous to see, that so he might marshal his own Army accordingly. For (said he) I do not so much trust to the Lions skin wherein I wrap mine arm, His prudent Speech. but that withall I will make use of the Foxes, therein to wrap my head, which my Grandfather neglected to his overthrow in a Battel against the Persians: For being in a place of advantage, he went out of it to seek his Enemy that was lodged strongly, contrary to the advise of all his Captains, which proved his ruin.

Then did he cause three thousand Horsemen to advance forward, with charge to begin the skirmish, himself following after to lodg every part of his Forces in such places as he had foreseen to be fittest for his advantage: And seeing the Turkish Janizaries marching in a square Battel in the midst of the Army, and upon the two Frons, two great squadrons of Horsemen, which seemed to be about thirty thousand, and another which advanced before, and covered the Battalion of the Janizaries, he thought this their order to be very good, and hard to be broken, and therefore turning himself to Axalla, he said, I had thought this day to have fought on foot, but I see that it behoves me now to fight on Horseback, His direction for the Battel. to encourage my Souldiers to open that great Battalion of the Enemies. And my will is that my men come forwards to me [Page]so soon as may be; for I will advance forward with a hundred thousand Footmen, fifty thousand upon each of my two wings, and in the midst of them, forty thousand of my best Horsemen: and my pleasure is, that, after I have tried the force of these men, they come back into my Avantguard, of whom I will dispose, and fifty thousand Horsemen more in three bodies, whom thou shalt command, which I will assist with eighty thousand Horse, wherein shall be mine own person, having an hundred thousand Footmen behind me, who shall march in two Squadrons: and for my Arearward I appoint forty thousand Horse, and fifty thousand Footmen, who shall not march but to my aid: And I will make choise of ten thousand of my best Horse, whom I will send into every place where I shall think needful within my Army, for to impart my commands.

Over the first forty thousand Horse, the Prince of Ciarchan commanded, over the formost Footmen was the Lord Synopes, a Genovois, Kinsman to Axalla and his Lieutenant over the Footmen, a Captain of great estimation: The Prince Axalla's charge consisted of five Squadrons of Horsemen: Bajazet's Army also being fair and great,The Battel begins. came bravely still on forwards towards their Enemies, who stirred not a whit from the place which they had chosen for the Battel, except certain light-Horsemen, Scythians, Parthians, and Muscovites, who being sent out as loose men, hotly skirmished between the two Armies. Tamerlane was informed by a spie, that Bajazet was on foot in the midst of thirty thousand Janizaries, his principal men of War, and greatest strength, amongst whom he ment that day to fight, and in whom he had repoled his greatest hope. His Battel of Horse was very fair, amounting to the number of one hundred and forty thousand, all old Souldiers: the Sultan of Egypt also had sent to his aid thirty thousand Mamelukes,Bajazets great Army. all excellent good Horsemen, with thirty thousand Footmen; so that his Army marching all in a front, in the form of a half Moon, seemed almost as great as Tamerlanes: These Turks, with infinite number of horrible cries, still advanced forwards, Tamerlanes Souldiers all the while standing still with great silence. Never was there a more furious charge than the Turks gave upon the Prince of Ciarchan, who was commanded not to fight till the Enemy came unto him, neither could there have been chosen a fairer Plain, and where the skilful choice of the place, gave less advantage either to the one or to other only Tamerlane had a River on the left side of his Army, serving him to some small advantage. Now this young Prince of Ciarchan, with his forty thousand Horse, was in the first encounter almost wholly overthrown; yet having fought right valiantly, and entred even in the midst of the Janizaries (where the Person of Bajazet was) putting them into disorder,The Prince of Ciarchan slain. he was himself there slain. About which time Axalla set upon them with his squadrons, but not with the like danger: for having overthrown one of the Enemies Wings, and cut it all to pieces, and his Footmen coming to joyn with him, as was appointed, he faced the Battalion of the Janizaries, who right valiantly behaved themselves for the safety of their Prince.A furious Battel, This furious fight continued an hour, and yet you could not have seen any scattered, but the one still resolutely fighting against the other. You might there have seen the Horsemen like mountains rushing together, and infinite numbers of men dying, crying, lamenting, and threatning all at the same instant.

Tamerlane had patience all this while to see the event of this so mortal a fight: but perceiving his men at last to be begin to give ground, he sent ten thousand of his Horse to joyn with the ten thousand appointed for the Rereward, commanding them to assist him when they saw that he had need, and so himself gave a furious Charge,Tamerlane himself chargeth. and made them to give him room, causing the Footmen also to charge, over whom the Prince of Thanais commanded, who gave a gallant charge upon the Battalion of Janizaries, wherein was yet the Person of Bajazet, who before had sustained a great burden. Now Bajazet had [Page] in his Army a great number of Mercinary Tartars, called Destenses, with many thousands of other Souldiers taken up in the Countries of the poor exiled Mahometan Princes, in whose just quarrel, and the Greek Emperours, Tamerlane had chiefly undertaken that War. These Tartarians and other Souldiers, seeing, some their friends,Many revolt to Tamerlane. and other some their natural and loving Princes in Tamerlanes Army, stricken with the terrour of disloyalty, and abhorring the cruelty of the proud Tyrant, in the heat of the Battel, revolted from Bajazet to their own Princes, which much weakned Bajazets Forces: who nevertheless with his own men of War, especially the Janizaries, and the help of the Christian Souldiers brought to his aid from Servia, and other places of Europe, with great courage maintained the fight: But the multitude rather than true valour prevailed; for as much as might be done by valiant and couragious men, was by the Janizaries, the Mamelukes, and the rest performed, both for the preservation of their Prince, and for gaining the Victory: But in the end the Horsemen with whom Tamerlane himself was,The Turks overthrow. giving a fresh charge, and his Avantguard being rallied and joyning with him, he with much ado obtained the Victory.

Bajazet himself being wounded,Bajazet wounded. when he saw all desperate, mounted on Horseback, thinking to have escaped: but falling into Axalla's hands, he yielded himself to him,Bajazet taken. supposing him to have been Tamerlane, neither did Axalla for a while know him, but took him for some great Commander in the Turks Army. Musa, sirnamed Zelabi, or the Noble, one of Bajazets Sons, with divers other of his great Captains were there taken also; and amongst the rest, George, Despot of Servia, who, notwithstanding his misfortune had that day by his valour gained the reputation of a great and valiant Captain, insomuch as Tamerlane in the very heat of the Battel marvelled to see him and his Servians, and the other Christians that he had brought to the aid of Bajazet, The valour of the Christians. to fight so valianty; whereupon turning to some of his Captains that were near him, he said, See how valiantly these Religious fight, supposing them by their strange attire to have been some of the Turks superstitious Votaries. But the Despot being now taken, and afterwards brought to Tamerlane, he was by him courteously entertained; yet withal reproved, for that he had assisted Bajazet against him, who was come in favour to the Christian Emperour, and the other poor oppressed Princes, such as the Despot himself was: who thereupon boldly answered,The Despot of Service Speech. That indeed it was not according to his profession, but according to the prosperity of Bajazet, unto whom it seemed that all the world should bend, and that he did it for his own safety: Whereupon Tamerlane excused him, and without any more ado,Tamerlane releaseth him. gave him liberty at his own pleasure to depart.

Bajazet himself Being afterwards brought to Tamerlane as a Prisoner, was by him courteously entertained, who never shewed any token of submission at all, but according to his proud nature, without respect of his present state, answered him presumptuously to whatever he demanded of him:Bajazets proud behaviour. Wherewith Tamerlane being somewhat moved, told him that it was in his power to take his life from him; whereto he answered no more, but Do it, for that loss will be my greatest happiness: Then Tamerlane demanded of him, what made him so proud as to enterprize to bring so noble a Prince as the Greek Emperour into his subjection? He answered, Even the same cause which moved thee to invade me, namely the desire of glory and sovereignity. But wherefore then (said Tamerlane) dost thou use such cruelty towards them whom thou overcomest, without respect of Age or Sex? That did I (said he) to strike the greater terrour into mine Enemies.

Then did Tamerlane ask him if he had ever given thanks to God for making him so great an Emperour?Leoncla, in edit. Annal. Turk. No (said he) I never so much as thought upon any such thing. Then said Tamerlane, Its no wonder that so ungrateful a man should be made a spectacle of misery.Note. For you (saith he) being blind of an [Page] Eye, and I lame of a Leg, was there any worth in us, that God should set us over two such great Empires, to command so many men far more worthy than our selves? But, said Tamerlane, what would thou have done with me if it had been my lot to have fallen into thy hands, as thou art now in mine? I would (said Bajazet) have enclosed thee in a Cage of Iron, Lex Talionis. and so have carried thee up and down in Triumph through my Kingdom. Even so (said Tamerlane) shalt thou be served: And so causing him to be taken out of his presence, turning to his followers, he said, Behold a proud and cruel man, who deserves to be chastised accordingly, and to be made an example to all the proud and cruel of the World, of the just wrath of God against them. I acknowledg that God this day hath delivered into my hands a great Enemy, to whom therefore we must return thanks,Tamerlanes Piety. which he also caused publickly to be performed the same day; for the Battel was ended about four a clock, and there were divers hours yet of day-light. The next day he caused the dead to be buried, where amongst the rest was found the body of the Prince of Ciarchan dead in the midst of the Janizaries, where he lay enclosed with their dead bodies, shwing that he died not unrevenged, whose untimely death Tamerlane much lamented, causing his dead body to be Embalmed, and with two thousand Horse, and divers Turkish Prisoners chained together, to be conveyed to Samercand until his coming thither.The dead buried. All other dead bodies were, with all honour that might be, buried at Sennas.

This great bloody Battel was fought in the year of our Lord, 1397. not far from Mount Stella (where formerly the great King Methridates was by Pompey the Great, in a great Battel overthrown.) It continued from seven a clock in the morning till four in the afternoon; victory as it were all the while hovering with doubtful Wings over both Armies, as uncertain where to light, until at length the fortune of Tamerlane prevailed:Tamerlanes Policy. whose wisdom, next unto God, gave him the days Victory; for that the politick tiring of the strong Forces of Bajazet, was the safeguard of his own: whereas if he had gone unto the Battel in one front, assuredly the multitude finding such strong opposition, had put it self into confusion; but this successive manner of aiding his men, made them all unto him profitable. The number of the slain is variously reported. The Turks themselves say, that Bajazet lost there his noble Son Mustapha, with two hundred thousand of his men, and Tamerlane not many fewer:The number of the slain. Others say, that the Turks lost about sixty thousand, and Tamerlane not past twenty thousand. But likely it is, that the carnage was very great in so long a fight between two such Armies as probably never before met in a field together.

By this days event is plainly seen the uncertainty of worldly things,The uncertainty of worldly greatness. and what small assurance even the greatest have in them. Behold, Bajazet the terrour of the World, and (as he thought) superiour to fortune, in an instant by the event of one Battel thrown into the bottom of misery and despair, and that at such a time as he thought least of it, even in the midst of his greatest strength. It was three days before he could be pacified, but as a desperate man still sought after death, and called for it. Neither did Tamerlane after he had once spoken with him, at all afterwards use him courteously, but as of a proud and insolent man, made small account of him. And to manifest that he knew how to curb the haughty, he made him to be shackled in fetters and chains of Gold,Bajazet kept in a Cage. and so to be shut up in an Iron Cage, made like a grate, that he might be seen on every side, and so carried him up and down as he passed thorow Asia, to be made a scorn and derision to his own people, over whom he had before Tyrannized. And to his further disgrace, upon Festival days he used him for a footstool to tread upon when he mounted on Horseback, and at other times scornfully fed him, like a Dog with fragments that fell from his Table. A rare example of the uncertainty of [Page] worldly honours and greatness, that he, unto whose ambitious mind Asia and Europe, two great parts of the World, were too little, should now be carried up and down, cooped up in a little Iron cage, like a dangerous wild beast: How might he have taken up that speech of Hecuba in Seneca? Quicunque Regno fidit, & magna potens dominatur in aula, me videat.—Non unquam tulit Documenta Fors majora quàm fragili loco starent superbi.

Tamerlane used this severity,Pride goeth before destruction. not so much out of hatred to the man, as to manifest the just Judgment of God against the arrogant folly of the proud. And when on a time he was requested by one of his Nobles to remit some part of this rigour to so great a man, he answered, I do not use this rigour against him as a King, but rather to punish him as a proud amibitious Tyrant, polluted with the bloud of his own brother, and many other innocents.

This so great an overthrow brought such a fear upon all the Countries possessed by Bajazet in Asia, Tamerlane prosecutes his Victory. that Axalla being sent before Tamerlane with Forty thousand Horse, and a hundred thousand Foot, without carriages, to prosecute the Victory, came without resistance to Prusa, whither all the remainder of Bajazets Army was retired with Bassa Mustapha; all places as he marched along still yielding to him: Yea, the great Bassa, with the rest, hearing of his coming,The Turks fly. and not thinking themselves in safety in Asia, fled over the streight of Hellespont to Callipolis, and so Hadrianople.

Axalla coming to Prusa, Prusa taken. had the City without resistance yielded to him, which by his Army was plundered, and there, with other of Bajazet's Wives and concubines, he took prisoner the fair Despina, Bajazet's best beloved Wife, to the doubling of his grief.

Emanuel Paleologus now hearing of Tamerlane's coming to Prusa, The Greek Emperour [...]ends Ambassadours. sent honourable Ambassadours thither before to Axalla, by whom they were entertained till the coming of Tamerlane, who received them with all the honour that might be, shewing them all his magnificence, and the order of his Camp, to their great admiration: For it resembled a most populous and well governed City, by reason of the order that was therein, which brought it plenty of victuals, and of all manner of merchandise, as well for delight as necessity. By these Ambassadours the Greek Emperour yielded his Empire, together with his Person,The Greek Empire yielded to Tamerlane. unto Tamerlane, as his most faithful Subject and Vassal: Which (as he said) he was bound to do, for that he was by him delivered from the most cruel Tyrant of the World; as also for the long journey he had undertaken for his sake, and the discommodities he had endured, with the hazard of his Person, and loss of his Subjects, which could not be otherwise compensated, but with the offer of his own, and his Subjects lives to him, which for ever he therefore dedicated to his service, with all the fidelity and loyalty that so great a benefit might deserve: besides, that his so many virtues, and rare endowments, which made him famous through the world, did oblige him the more hereunto, and that therefore he would attend him in his chief City, to deliver it into his hands, as his own, together with all the Empire of Greece.

Now these Ambassadours expected no less than to fall into the bondage of Tamerlane, judging that which they offered to be so great and delicate a morsel, as that it would not be refused, especially of such a Victorious Prince as was Tamerlane; and that the acceptance thereof in kindness and Friendship was the best bargain they could make therein. But they received at answer from this Worthy Prince far beyond their expectation: For he with a mild countenance beholding them,It's refused by him. answered thus; That he was not come from so far a countrey, nor undertook such pains for the enlargement of his Dominions, big enough already (too base a thing for him to put himself into so great danger and hazard for) but rather to win honour, and to make his name famous to future Posterities: And that he would make it appear to the World, that he [Page] came to assist their Master as his Friend and Ally at his request: and that his upright intentions therein were the greatest cause that God from above had favoured him, and made him instrumental to bruise the head of the greatest and fiercest enemy of mankind that was under heaven; and therefore to get him an immortal name, his purpose was to make free so great and flourishing a City as was Constantinople, governed by so noble and ancient a House as the Emperours.Tamerlanes fidelity. That he had alwayes joyned Faith to his Courage, which should never suffer him to make so great a breach into his reputation, as that it should be reported of him, that in the colour of a Friend, he should come to invade the Dominions of his Ally. That he desired no more, but that the service he had done for the Greek Emperour, might remain for ever engraven in the memory of his posterity, to the end they might for ever wish well to him and his Successors, by the remembring the good he had done for them: That he wished, that long might the noble Emperour live, happily to govern his estate, and that before his return, he would so well consider of the establishing of the same, as that he should not lightly fall into the same jeopardy.

Easie it is to judge what joy the Ambassadours did conceive upon hearing this so gracious an answer from the mouth of Tamerlane, who, rather than he would break his Faith, refused an Empire offered him, together with one of the stateliest and magnificentest Cities in the World. After the testification of their joy and thankfulness, these Ambassadours were by the command of Tamerlane, royally feasted by Axalla, having all the honour done to them that might be.The Ambassadours dismissed. And one of them being sent back to carry this unexpected news to the Emperour, filled both him and all the City of Constantinople with exceeding joy and gladness, which both he, and all his subjects testified, by making of Bonefires,The Greek Emperour comes to him. and other signs of joy and pleasure. And the Emperour, the more to shew his gratitude, by the advice of his Counsellours, passed over the streight into Asia, to see Tamerlane in Prusa, and in person himself to give him thanks; who hearing of his coming, and being glad thereof, presently sent Prince Axalla to meet him, and to certifie him of the joy he conceived to have the good hap to see him, as also to conduct him to Prusa, where those two great Princes with the greatest magnificence that might be, met, and so spent one whole day in conversing together; and the Greek Emperor the next daytaking his leave, was by Tamerlane with much honour conducted out of the City.

Now had Tamerlane himself conceived a great desire to see the famous City of Constantinople, Tamerlane goes to Constantinople. from which he was not now far, yet would he not go thither as a Conquerour, but as a private person: which by the means of Axalla was accomplished, and he thereinto by the Greek Emperour privately received, and with all familiarity possible entertained: the Emperour shewing unto him all the rare and excellent things that were contained therein; and the other Greek Princes devising all the means they could to do him pleasure, and them that were with him, who were all in a manner cloathed after the Greek fashion. The Greek Emperour was curious to shew him all the beautiful Gardens along the Sea-coast, and so privately conducting him about, spent five or six dayes with all the mirth that might be;He highly commended it. Tamerlane by the way often saying, that he had never seen a fairer City; and that of all others, considering the scituation of it, it was right worthy to command all the World. He wondred at the costly buildings of the Temples, the fair engraven Pillars, the high Piramides, and the excellent Gardens; afterwards saying often, that it nothing repented him to have undertaken so long and dangerous a journey, if it had been only to preserve so notable a City from fire and sword. In the Greek Emperour he greatly commended his mild nature and courtesie, who knowing that above all things he took pleasure in fair serviceable Horses, gave unto him thirty of the fairest, strongest, and readiest that were possibly to be gotten, all most richly furnished: He sent likewise great Presents to all the [Page] Princes, and great Commanders of the Army, and bountifully caused to be delivered to them all things which he thought necessary for the Army: So after these great kindnesses, and a strict bond of Friendship made, and by solemn Oath confirmed by these two great Princes, Tamerlane with great contentment took leave of the Emperour, and returned to his Army at Prusa, wherewith now at pleasure he spoiled and wasted all the dominions of Bajazet in Asia, no man daring to make head against him.

The Winter now drawing on,He sends his Army to thei [...] [...] quarters. Tamerlane dispersed his Army into divers Provinces of the lesser Asia, expecting daily when some of Bajazet's sons or great Friends, should make suit to him for his deliverance; but none came, most fearing the fierce nature of Bajazet, who, if he had been delivered, was like enough to have taken severe revenge upon all that forsook him in the battel, and therefore they never interceeded for him. Whereupon Tamerlane one day passing by him,Bajazets Pride. said, I marvel that none of thy sons nor friends either come to see thee, or to intreat for thee; it must needs be that thou hast evil deserved of them, as thou hast of others. But what thinkest thou, if I should set thee at liberty, would they receive thee again as their Lord and Sovereign, or not? To whom Bajazet stoutly answered, Were I at liberty, thou shouldest quickly see that I want neither courage nor means to revenge all my wrongs, and to make the disobedient to know their duties better. This proud answer made Tamerlane to keep a stricter hand over him.

In this great War, the Sultan of Egypt (as we said before) had aided Bajazet, which Tamerlane took in so evil part, that he resolved revenge: For as to his Friends he was most kind and courteous, so to his Enemies most terrible and dreadful.Tamerlan's Justice. Yet before his departure he restored to the poor Mahometan Princes that had fled to him for refuge, all their ancient Inheritances, with something more out of bounty; as also he did divers Cities and Countreys of Natolia, to the Greek Emperour, for the yearly Tribute of four hundred thousand Ducats of Gold, and eight hundred thousand Franks of Silver.He marche [...] towards Egypt. And thus having enriched his Army with the spoils of the Ottoman Empire, he turned his Forces against the Egyptian Sultan, and so passing through Caramania, he entred into Syria, then part of the Sultans Kingdom; where near unto Aleppo (before yielded to him) there was fought between them a great and mortal battel, the Sultan having in his Army a hundred thousand Foot, and seventy four thousand Horse; whereof there were thirty thousand Mamelukes, accounted the best Horsemen in the World. In which Battel Axalla, with the Avantguard of Tamerlane's Army,His battel with the Sultan. was hardly distressed, and Axalla himself taken, but presently rescued by Tamerlane, who, had he not by his coming on with fresh Forces speedily restored the battel, that day was like enough to have put a period to his Fortunes: But Victory, after a long and cruel fight (wherein were eighty thousand of both sides slain) inclining to Tamerlane, the Sultan fled,The Sultan beaten, flyeth. Tamerlane pursuing him for the space of three Leagues. After this Victory, Tamerlane dividing his Army, sent Axalla with forty thousand Horse and fifty thousand Foot to pursue the Sultan along the Sea-coast of Arabia; The Sultan made divers Alts with four thousand Horse to have stopped Axalla, who having the smallest Forces, followed him the nearest, whilst Tamerlane with sixty thousand Horse, and two hundred thousand Foot, marched along those Coasts, having all the Cities as he went surrendred to him: only the strong City of Damasco refused to receive him, whereinto the Sultan had put the Prince Zamudzen, with a strong Garrison, who did what might be done to defend the same, but all in vain: For Tamerlane having by battery overthrown a great part of the Wall,Damasco taken by storm. took the City by storm, only the Castle yet remained, which was accounted [Page] impregnable: but at the taking of the City, such a multitude pressed into it, as that it was not possible for them long to subsist; therefore within a short time, being pinched with hunger, and many already dead, the rest, upon promise of their lives, offered to yield; But Tamerlane would not receive them to mercy, to make them sensible what it was to hold out against him: So that most of them dying of famine, the rest yielded at pleasure, and were most of them put to the Sword for their obstinacy; which severity of his, caused all the Cities within the space of thirty Leagues to bring their Keyes to him in token of their submission, whom he no way molested, otherwise than in contributing to the charge of his Army.

From thence he turned directly towards Jerusalem, Tamerlane goes to Jerusalem. at which time they of the City had turned out the Sultans Garrison, as had almost all they of Judea, submitting themselves unto Tamerlane: at Chorazin was a Garrison of six thousand, who at first pretended to defend the place: but when they perceived that Tamerlane was resolved to have it, they submitted, and found mercy. There Tamerlane left a Garrison of his own to repress the Mamelukes, who with frequent incursions troubled his Army. Himself with some of his Horsemen rode to Jerusalem, His Piety. to visit the Sepulchre so much reverenced of all Nations: By the Inhabitants he was joyfully received, and having sought out all the antiquities of that ancient City, he would be conducted to all the places where Christ had preached; and coming to the Sepulchre, he gave there many rich gifts, to the great content of all, only the Jews much blamed him for so doing, but he regarded them not, calling them the accursed of God: There had he news, that the Sultan, having gathered together all his Forces, was fortifying his Cities in Egypt, especially Alexandria, and the Grand Caier; whereupon Tamerlane commanded his Army to march towards Egypt to Damietta, which strong City he thought not good to leave behind him, though by some he was perswaded so to do, for that it was thought impregnable, both by reason of the strong Castle, and great Garrison placed therein by the Sultan: But he,He marcheth into Egypt. whose Fortune nothing could hinder, would needs go thither: And having commanded Axalla to attempt it, followed himself after with the rest of his Army.

Now Axalla, having summoned the City, declared to the Inhabitants (who were most of them Christians) the mildness, and courtesie of Tamerlane, as also who himself, and of what Religion he was; causing many of his Greek Captains to speak to them, and to tell them, what misery they endured under the Moors and Mameluks, which so far prevailed with them, that they resolved to adventure their lives to put the Mameluks out of the City; and the night after,Damietia taken. taking Arms, made themselves Masters of one quarter of the City, opening one of the Gates to Axalla, whereby he entring, put all the Mameluks to the Sword, or took them prisoners; and so became Master of that strong City: Whereof Tamerlane hearing, hoped by so prosperous a beginning, to find an happy end of his Wars in Egypt. For he knew that the Haven of Damietta might furnish him with Victuals out of all parts of Greece, as the Emperour Emmanuel had promised him, and wherein he nothing failed him. Then did Tamerlane enter the City, leaving therein a Garrison of two thousand of the Emperour of Greece his Souldiers, with a Governour, of whom he took an Oath for their obedience.Tamerlane marched to Cair. And having staid a while at Damietta, he caused his Avantguard to march towards Alexandria, and having passed over the River, he suddenly turned directly towards Grand Caire, to the great astonishment of the Sultan, who provided for the defence of Alexandria, as nearest to the Enemy: But understanding this news, used such diligence, that he entred into Caire, with forty thousand Horse and sixty thousand Foot, even as Tamerlane's Army approached to it. By this unexpected coming of the Sultan, the great City, that before was ready to have revolted, was again [Page] confirmed in his obedience, to the great prejudice of Tamerlanes affairs: For to remain long before it was impossible, through want of Victuals for so great an Army in an Enemies Countrey. Yet this discouraged not Tamerlane from approaching to it,Caire besieged. and with all his Army to encamp near unto the same, having caused a great Trench to be made for the security of his Horsemen, and therein to lodge his Army more safely: during which time, he caused divers attempts to be made, as well to try the enemies confidence, as to see how the people of the City, especially the slaves (which in that populous City are in great numbers) were affected towards him, who indeed were glad to see the state of his Army, and the proud Mamelukes still put to the worst, but farther strirred not. During this siege, he thought good one day to draw forth his Army before the City, to try whether the enemy had any mind to come to a battel; as also to view his own Forces, and so indeed to seek occasion to fight, hoping that if the Sultan should come forth with his Army, some revolt might happen at the same time in the City, as well by the slaves, unto whom by secret Spies,Tamerlanes policy. he had promised liberty, as by the Citizens themselves, who were much discontented with the insolency of the Mamelukes, and by whom Tamerlane by the same Spies had made it known that he came not to hurt them, but to deliver them from the tyranny of his, and their enemies: But standing thus in Battel array, none stirred out of the City, neither was there any tumult raised within, according as he expected: For the Sultan being plentifully provided with all things in that rich City, resolved to weary out Tamerlane by lying still, and not to put all to the hazard of a battel. Tamerlane perceiving his Design, yet resolved not to depart till he was Victorious; whereupon he thought fit also to attempt him in his greatest strength, and in the heart of his greatest City, though it could not be done without great hazard, such confidence had he in the Valour, and Multitude of his Army. Now his purpose was first to take one of the Cities (for Caire is divided into three) and therein encamping himself, by little and little to advance forwards,Caire stormed. as he could find opportunity. Upon this resolution, he commanded a strong assault to be given, and having conducted his Footmen to the place chosen by him for the onset (for the City was not Walled, but only fortified with Ditches and Trenches) he commanded the Prince of Thanais, with fifty thousand men, to begin the Assault, even in the face of the Enemy, which he most valiantly performed, which occasioned a great and terrible fight. Axalla in the mean time deeming (as the truth was) that the Sultan had drawn the greatest part to his Forces to that place, fetched a compass about, and in another part of the City, with small resistance passed the Trenches,Axalla enters. where he presently left thirty thousand men to fill up the Ditches, thereby to make way for the Horsemens entrance, himself with the rest, advancing forwards against twenty thousand sent by the Sultan to oppose his farther passage, the Prince of Thanais being at the same time almost beaten back by the Mamelukes: But the Ditches being presently levelled, ten thousand Horsemen entred, who charged upon the backs of the Mamelukes, where the Sultan himself was; there were likewise seconded by ten thousand more,Caire taken. sent in by Tamerlane, himself following after with all his power: Hereupon the Sultan retreated into a second strength which he had made in the next City.

This fight continued full seven hours, wherein were slain of the Sultans men, above sixteen thousand, and of Tamerlane's between seven and eight thousand. Tamerlane being well contented that he had dislodged his enemy, and gained one of the Cities, caused a retreat to be sounded, hoping the next day to win all the rest, as indeed he did. For the next morning the Prince of Thanais storming the Trenches in one part, as Axalla did in another,The Sultan [...]lyeth. the Sultan after a great fight, finding himself hardly pressed by the [Page] obstinate Enemy, and unable longer to hold out, retreated, abandoning the City, and encamping himself along the River Nilus, resolving to retire to the City of Alexandria his second strength, and only refuge, which Tamerlane suspecting,Tamerlane pursueth. followed after him with his Horsemen, (who only were in order) and some few Foot hardly drawn from the City, which their fellows were in plundering, Tamerlane promising them both to regard, and reward their good service. Against these, the Sultan, upon a narrow cawseway, had opposed twelve or fifteen thousand men, to favour his passage, who being of his best Souldiers, maintained their ground stoutly, the place being much for their advantage; yet at length their enemies still increasing, and pressing hard upon them, they were forced to cast themselves into the great River,A brave retreat of the Mamelukes. and made a most honourable retreat, every man having his Weapon in one hand, and swimming with the other hand to the farther Bank. The Sultan flying with about eighteen thousand Horse, (the rest being either drowned or dispersed) is said to have comforted his flying men, by telling them, they were not men, but gods that had vanquished them.

Divers of the Mamelukes that were taken Prisoners, being brought before Tamerlane, were by him courteously used, and asked if they would be content to serve him,Fidelity rewarded. seeing their Master was fled and gone? This they all utterly refused, whom notwithstanding for their fidelity, Tamerlane set at liberty to go again to their Master, being no less desirous to be admired by his Enemies for his Goodness and Bounty, than to be feared for his Force and Valour.

The wonderful wealth of this so great and famous a City,Caire plundered. became a prey to his Souldiers, who for the space of twenty four hours, had the spoil thereof: At the end of which time, every man was straitly charged by open Proclamation, to retire to his Quarters. Tamerlane would not suffer any of the Citizens to be taken Prisoners and such as were, he released, and so leaving ten thousand good Souldiers, with many others that followed his Camp, for the Guard of the City, and taking with him all such persons as he thought might hurt him,Tamerlane goes to Alexandria. he caused his Army to pass over the River, and to follow the Sultan to Alexandria, that so his Victory might be compleated.

Axalla hasted before with the Avantguard, to hinder the Sultan from gathering up his Forces together: The rest of the Army was conducted by the Prince of Thanais, Tamerlane himself, with an infinte number of Boats, and many Souldiers to attend him, went by Water, greatly delighting to behold that fair River of Nilus, sometimes running with a swift course, other sometimes very calm, and scarce moved. The Citizens of Alexandria hearing of his coming, and fearing the issue, besought the Sultan to compassionate their condition, and to withdraw himself into Lybia; whither Tamerlane could not follow him, by reason of the barrenness of the Countrey: Resolving for their parts to submit to Fortune, and to do as the time required; yet promising in heart to remain his, and to make the same to appear to him, so soon as occasion should be offered. Hereupon the Sultan, seeing all things desperate,The Sultan flyes. determined to retire, yet hoping that time might bring a change, for that Tamerlanes numerous Army could not long remain there: And so departing out of Alexandria, with Tears standing in his eyes, he often said, that God was angry with him and his People, so that he must of necessity suffer the fatal Overthrow of his Estate; yet, for his own part, he had done as much as in him lay, according the Duty of his Place, and to satisfie the expectation that the World had of him, for the upholding of the same. Notwithstanding he hoped to return again, and to deliver his People from that bondage, which for the present they were necessitated to submitto

[Page] Tamerlane coming to Alexandria (before yielded to Axalla) stayed there a great while,Axalla pursues him. sending Axalla to pursue the Sultan, being much grieved that he could not get him into his hands, and therefore he still feared that some Innovation would be raised by him after his departure, which made him to deal the more hardly with them whom he suspected to favour him. Now the bruit of these Victories, having with Axalla, passed into Lybia, brought such a fear, not only upon the Countries adjoyning to these Conquests, but also upon all Africa, supposing (that Tamerlane followed with the rest of his Army) that twenty two of the Moorish Kings sent their Ambassadours to offer their subjection,Many Kings submit to Tamerlane. and obedience to him: O [...] the nearest of which Kings Tamerlane took Hostages, but for such as were more remote, he contented himself with their faith given, and with other Testimonies of their good wills. Axalla having long followed the Sultan, who like a man forsaken of Fortune, still fled before him,Tamerlane desires to return home. seeing all his labour lost, returned to Alexandria. And Tamerlane, after his long travel and pains taken, was now more desirous than ever to return into his own Countrey: The rather being moved thereunto by the earnest request of his Wife, much longing for his return: He had news also of the sickness of the old Emperour of Tartary, his Father in Law; and besides, Age it self began to bring unto him a desire of rest. With his did the desires of the Souldiers well agree, who were now weary of running so many and divers Adventures.He secures his new conquests. His only stay was, that he expected the coming of Calibes, an old and faithful servant of his, whom for his good desert he made choice of to govern all these his new Conquests in Egypt and Syria: A great honour indeed it was, but not too great for him that had so well deserved. And indeed Tamerlane was alwayes so mindful of the good deserts of his faithful servant, that he needed not by others to be put in remembrance of them, were they never so far off, as now was Calibes, who at this time was, with a third part of the Army, making way for him along the River Euphrates, for the Conquest of Mesopotamia and Persia, whose coming was longed for with great devotion by the whole Army, which was now very desirous to return; but this expectation of theirs was not long delayed, for Calibes being sent for, came speedily to Alexandria, where the whole Army was by Tamerlane's command now rendezvouzed.

Upon the coming of Calibes, Calibes made Governour. Tamerlane made the Prince of Zamalzan man of great reputation) Governour of that place, as Lieutenant General under Calibes, whom Tamerlane (as was said before) had made his Vice-Roy over all Egypt and Syria, together with the Countries newly conquered in Lybia and Barbary: He gave him also six thousand Horse, and ten thousand Foot to assist him therein: And so leaving Alexandria, he took Calibes along with him to the great City of Caire, there taking the best order he could for the securing of his new Conquests: He left with him forty thousand Horse, and fifty thousand Foot: And having sufficiently instructed him how he would have those Kingdoms governed, dismissed him, not like a servant, but a companion, being very sorry to leave him destitute of his presence: So setting forwards with his Army,Tamerlane goes to Jerusalem. conducted by the Prince of Thanais, Tamerlane with a few of his Train, turned again aside to Jerusalem, where he daily visited the Sepulchre of Christ, (whom he called the God of the Christians) viewing the ruines of Solomon's Temple, which he much admired, and at Jerusalem, the Seat of David's Kingdom, and that of great Solomon, grieving that he could not see them in their former beauty; And to shew his Devotion and favour to this City, he commanded it to be free from all Garrisons and Subsidies, and so giving great gifts to the Monasteries, he departed from thence to Damasco; which great City, for that it was infected with the Opinions of Jezides, (accounted an Arch-Heretick among the Mussulmen) as also evil-affected to his Proceedings, he caused it to be razed, and the bones of Jezides the False Prophet [Page] to be digged up, and burnt, and his Sepulchre (which before by his Disciples was much honoured, to be filled with dung; and so marching on, and blasting the World before him, being victorious which way soever he turned, he at last passed over the River Euphrates, where he conquered Mesopotamia, with the great City of Babylon, and all the Kingdom of Persia, and so at last laden with the spoiles of the World, and eternized for ever in his Fame, he returned to Samercand, the famous place of his Birth, and Glorious Seat of his Empire.

Now had Bajazet (a little before one of the greatest Princes on earth, and now the Scorn of Fortune, and by-word to the World) with great impatiency lain two years in most miserable thraldom, for the most part shut up in an iron Cage, like a dangerous wild beast: and having no better means to end his loathed life, violently dashed out his brains against the bars of the iron Grate wherein he was enclosed, and so died about the year of our Lord 1399. His dead body, at the request of his Son Mahomet, was by Tamerlane sent to Asprapolis, from which it was conveyed to Prusa, and there lieth buried in a Chappel built for the purpose without the City Eastward: where also are interred the bodies of his best beloved Wife Despina, and of his eldest son Erthogrul, and in another little Chappel hard by, lieth buried his brother Jacup, whom he had murdered in the beginning of his Reign.Bajazet's Character. This Bajazet had some Vertues, which were much obscured by his cholerick and wayward nature, which made him to exceed in cruelty and Pride: He was also very covetous; which qualities made him indeed much feared, but little beloved of his Souldiers and men of War, by whom therefore in his greatest need he was forsaken. He used commonly to say, That his Treasures were his Childrens meat, and not his Souldiers Pay; which, by way of reproach, was by a common Souldier cast in his Teeth, when he raged to see himself by them forsaken in that great battel against Tamerlane, telling him as he fled, That he run not away, but went to seek his Pay, wherewith to provide his children bread.

Tamerlane, as we said before, having conquered Persia, used his Victory so mildly, that as long as he lived, the people of that Countrey were alwayes much affected to him; which served him greatly, as well for the keeping of Syria, as the Sultan of Egypts Empire: In his own Countrey he was received with all Triumphs, and expressions of joy that might be; the chiefest prisoners marching before him, and wheresoever he passed, the people assembled themselves by thousands,Tamerlanes Devotion. praising and singing his Victories. The Emperour having spent a month or two in Feasts and Triumphs, according to his accustomed Devotion, he vowed a Church and Hospital unto God, the most magnificent that might be devised: and to beautifie his City of Samercand, he searched out all sorts of Handicrafts-men,He enlargeth Samercand. intending to make it as large again as it was, and one of the stateliest Cities in the World: he peopled it also with so many several Nations as he had brought along with him, unto whom he gave liberty to build houses, distributing money unto them to do the same, giving them also all kind of Priviledges and Immunities for their encouragement therein: He caused also the streets to be plotted out, and in one corner of it he built his Church and Hospital. His next care was to preserve the good will and love of his famous Souldiers,His love to his Souldiers. whose names he caused to be Registred in a general Muster-Roll, which he kept by him, and daily conferred honours and rewards upon them (they not thinking of it) in recompence of their former good services; thinking that day lost wherein he did not some good. Then did he declare the death of the old Emperour to his Council, (of which he had received private intelligence) and forgat no Ceremony due unto his honour, publickly expressing the grief he had conceived for his death. Then did he,He goeth towards Quinsay. with his ordinary Court, consisting of forty thousand Horse, and sixty thousand Foot, set forward towards Quinsay, where his Empress was. And [Page] when he came to Cambalu, he had intelligence of a battel fought by Odmar against the King of China's Captain General,Odmar's Victory in China. and how he had pursued his Victory, having taken three or four great and rich Cities, and that the Chinois did again desire Peace. Hereupon he sent them these Articles; That the King of China should pay all the Arrears of his Tribute; That he should come in person to do his homage, acknowledging himself a Vassal of his Empire; That he should deliver up to him all his Cities saving three, such as the Emperour should nominate; That he should pay all the charges of the War, because he had broken the Peace;Tamerlane gives him his sister in marriage. which performed, things should be restored to the same state they were in before the War. And to gratifie Odmar, he sent to him with all Magnificence, one of his Sisters to be his Wife.

When he first entred into Cambalu, he was received with all the expressions of joy that might be, whereupon he restored to them their Priviledges which he had taken from them, for their Rebellion with Calix. The Empress being informed of his being there (leaving Prince Axalla to govern at Quinsay) came to him: So that he remained there near two moneths, giving order for all his affairs; the rather, because it was near to Mount Althay, where the Scythian Emperours use to be buried;The old Emperour buried. And so causing the body of the old Emperour to be brought thither, himself conducted it with all Pomp, honouring not only the Body, but all that he had loved in the World; and though it was not the custom for Women to assist at Funerals, yet he took his Empress along with him, who went near unto the Corps, till they came to the place where it was interred amongst his Predecessors. After these Ceremonies finished, he returned to Cambalu, where he spent the Winter in Tilts, Turnaments, Hunting, and such like Recreations: The rather, because this plac [...] was near to China, whereby he had the fitter opportunity to hear how affairs passed there, purposing to go thither in person the next Winter, if Odmar that Summer did not make an end of the Wars; and if the King of China did not submit himself to his Obedience. The Mark he shot at now being only to keep that which by his Valour he had won, desiring to spend the rest of his life in reaping the fruits of his hard Travels, and former labours.

Now Prince Axalla governed at Quinsay, as well to the great contentment of the Souldiery, as of the Inhabitants, who, out of their abundant love to the Emperour, requested Prince Axalla to write importunately to him, that his Son might be brought up amongst them,His Son brought up at Quinsay. which at Axalla's request he consented to, making him in the absence of his Son, the Governour of Quinsay, from Cambalu even to the Sea, which Countrey contained in it about three hundred Cities, besides an infinite number of Villages: all which was formerly under the Government of the old Emperour: He delivered also into his charge the Government of his Son.

Shortly after,The King of China comes to him. the King of China came to his Court, according to the Covenants offered to him, where he once again swore obedience to the Emperour, who shewed him his greatness, the more to make him stand [...]awe: for he knew that this Barbarian would keep no promise longer than [...] should stand with his own interest. This King of China was astonished to b [...] hold so many Souldiers, and the Countrey so well replenished with People: and above all, that they used so little curiosity and riches in their apparel, especially wondring that the Emperour himself was apparelled in mean cloth of one colour,Tamerlane's [...]lain apparel. without curiosity.

Shortly after, Tamerlane went to Quinsay, and by the way was met by Prince Axalla, and all the chief Lords and Citizens, who entertained him with all the Magnificence that might be.Quinsay described. It was one hundred miles in compass. This City of Quinsay was the fairest, and one of the richest in the World, and of the most wonderful scituation, being divided by many channels of Water, upon which are framed wonderful and stately buildings, having also an infinite number of Bridges: [Page] It abounds with all kind of Spices, and Merchandizes in great quantity. The Citizens presented the Emperour with many rare things, judged to be worth two Millions in Gold, with great variety of strange and excellent things. Then did the Emperour call for his Son that was there educated, who was now seven years old.His directions about the breeding of his Son. He forbade that thenceforward they should suffer him to wear any thing on his Head, and hung a Bow about his neck, saying, That they which from their birth were called to Sovereignty, should be used both to Cold and Heat, and should be exercised to Arms betimes, and not be brought up idly and delicately: reprehending those which brought him up, for using him so tenderly, asking them, if they meant to make a Woman of his Son? They replying, that he was tender. If he be not born (said he) to be strong and valiant, he will not be worthy to succeed me; for he must not be an effeminate Prince that must preserve the Parthian Empire. His second Son born. About this time his Empress was brought to bed of another Son at Samercand, for joy whereof, he made Feasts, with Tiltings and Pastimes fifteen dayes together. Then did he visit all the Sea-Towns near to Quinsay, hunting all manner of Games: yet often saying,Recreations rightly used. That the Recreations which he used, were only helps to ease him in the pains of his publick affairs which God had called him to. And when Prince Axalla told him, that that City was a fit place for his abode; O my friend (said he) it is not so: His Prudence. For it's a Maxime, that the Lord of this great City must not come to it above once in ten years, and when he is here, he must temper his Actions as if he were upon a stage, with Gravity, and a good grace before the people, who are apt to receive good or evil impressions according as their Princed eporteth himself.

Having setled his affairs in that part of his Empire,His return to Samercand. he returned to Samercand, where three times a Week he administred Justice publickly unto the meanest of his Subjects,His Justice. as well as to the greatest; which made him much beloved of all over whom he did command. On other dayes he gave secret audience, and disposed of the affairs of his estate, which were concluded daily in his presence. In his Council he used such severity that none durst deal untruly, or passionately in his presence. Yet shewed he such courteousness in his conversation, that he was both beloved and feared of his people. He never changed his Servants, except they committed some great faults against him.His love to his servants. All the servants of the late Emperour his Uncle, he never changed one of them, but increased their Pensions, making them sensible of his liberality in that change:His bounty. The like bounty he used to strangers, thereby to oblige them to him. He drew great store of money yearly from the Muscovite, by way of Tribute, which yet he distributed in the same Country to maintain his authority there, winning those to him, who otherwise might have hurt him.His frugality. He had great care of his Revenues, wherein he was so expedite, that in one hours space he could see his Estate from three months to three months, together with his ordinary and extraordinary expences; they were presented to him so well digested.

But after all his publick affairs so well managed, and his private businesses so well ordered,His Death. Sickness arrested, and Death conquered this Great Conquerour, leaving his Empire to Sautochio his Eldest Son, now nineteen years old, who was proclaimed Emperour within two hours after his Fathers death.

Tamerlane, His Character from his childhood, was well instructed in the Arabian learning, wherein he was very studious, insomuch as when they thought him to be in the Baths, wherein they are very curious in that Contrey, being their chiefest delight, he was retired to the contemplation and study of Heavenly things. He had within his eyes such a Divine beauty, and radiancy full of Majesty, that one could hardly endure the sight of them without closing of his eyes, so that some that talked with him, and beheld him, were stricken [Page] dumb for the present, which caused him with a comely modesty to abstain from looking upon them that talked with him. All the rest of his Visage was courteous, and well-proportioned: He wore his hair long and curled, contrary to the custome of his Countrey-men, who used to shave their Heads: He went almost alwayes bare-headed, saying, that his Mother came of the Race of Sampson, who therefore advised him to honour long hair. His hair was of a dusky colour, inclining somewhat to a Violet, the most beautiful that any eye could behold. His stature was of a middle sort, somewhat narrow in his shoulders: He had a fair and strong leg; his bodily strength and agility, was such, as none did surpass, and often on Festival dayes, he made trial of them with the strongest; yet did he it with such a Grace mixt with Humanity, that he whom he overcame held himself therein most happy, though it was a great disgrace amongst the Tartarians to be thrown to the ground in wrestling.

In the time of his Wars against the Turks, Note. a Souldier of his found buried in the ground a great Pot of Gold, which he brought to Tamerlane, who asked him if it had his Fathers stamp upon it; But when he saw that it had the stamp of the Romans, he would not own, nor meddle with it.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF CHARLES the GREAT, King of FRANCE, And Emperour of GERMANY.

[Page]

PEPIN, Pepins Children. sirnamed The short, the twenty third King of France, (a wise and valiant Prince) had two Sons, Charles and Caroloman, and five Daughters: Birthe, who was married to Milon Earl of Mans, by whom she had great Rowland: Hiltrude, married to Rene Earl of Genes, by whom she had the renowned Oliver; Rohard, Adeline, Idubergue, Ode, and Alix.

Pepin being toiled out with great Wars, much broken with the care of publick affairs, and now grown Old, that he might imploy his last days in the maintenance of Justice and Peace, the burden of War he laid upon his Eldest Son Charles, a wise and valiant young Prince, of whose modesty and obedience he was well assured: And then retiring to Paris, he was not long after surprised with sickness, in which he recommended his two Sons to the Estates of France, Pepins Death. to give them portions at their pleasures, and so ended his days Anno Christi 768.

He was a Religious Prince,His Character. wise, moderate, valiant, loving to his Subjects and beloved of them, happy in his Father, and his Children, and in his Government; An excellent Pattern for other Princes, who by his Example, [Page] hold it for an undoubted Maxim, That the strongest Fortress, and best security for a Prince, is the love of his Subjects, and the surest bond of his Authority, a respect gotten, and preserved by virtue.

Pepin being dead, the Estates of France assembled together, and by their joynt consents,Charles made King. divide the Kingdom betwixt his two Sons Charles, and Caroloman, by equal portions. Brothers these were of divers humours, who had certainly ruined each other by this equality of power, had not the death of Caroloman, within three years after, divolved the Government of the whole Realm upon Charles.

Charles was endowed with singular gifts both of Body and Mind,His Education. which were much improved by the sedulous care of his Prudent Father, manifested in the virtuous education of him: For which end he procured Paul of Pisa, a learned man, to instruct him in the Greek and Latin Tongues, and one Aymon to read to him Philosophy, and the Mathematicks: Himself also trained him up in Feates of Arms, and Warlike exercises. But above all, and as the ground of all virtues, he was careful to have him trained up, and well instructed in Religion, which all his life after he loved, and honoured with great Reverence the Church and Pastors thereof. He called the study of Humane Sciences his Pastimes, and the companions of his Sword, and did sometimes recreate himself therein. He loved Learning and learned men by Nature. He delighted in Poesy, as some of his Writings do shew; but especially in History, wherein he was exceeding well read. Charity, Temperance, Equity, care of Justice to relieve his Subjects, to keep his Faith and promise, both to Friend and Foe, and to use a Victory modestly, were the notable effects of his excellent knowledg, as remarkable in him as in any Prince that ever lived. The Universities of Paris, and Pisa (either Founded, or endowed by him) witness the great love and honour that he did bear to learning.

During the Life of his Father Pepin, His Valour and other vertues. he shewed how much he had profited in Arms under so good a Schoolmaster, having great Commands under him, which he discharged with notable reputation; and the improvement of his skill and ability after he came to his Kingdom, shew plainly, that there was never any Souldier that carried Sword with more valour, nor great Captain that commanded with more obedience, or that performed Noble Actions with greater success, or that used his Victories with more mildness, and judgment. Neither did ever King or Prince rule with more authority, nor was more reverently obeyed by this Subjects and Souldiers than our Charles; who therefore well deserved the name of Charlemagne, or Charles the Great, by reason of his great virtues. He was of a lively disposition, quick, active, and vehement: Quicquid egit, valdè egit: Yet modesty, and wisdom did so season, and moderate his vivacity, and vehemency, as gave a great lustre to both, and kept them within their due bounds: And this mixture of divers humours so tempered with moderation, made him as admirable for his Judgment, as venerable in his Person and countenance.

There appeared in him a grave,His Endowments. sweet Majesty in a goodly Personage: His Body was large and strong: He was very patient of labour: Had a quick spirit, was cleer and sound, both in apprehension, memory, and judgment: Resolution never failed him in difficulties, nor a Reply in Discourses. Terrible he was to some, Amiable to others, according to the Cause, Persons, and Occurrents: which virtues purchased him such great esteem, as that he was beloved, respected, and reverenced of all men, which effects the story of his raign will shew: For having received a great Kingdom from his Father, he enlarged it with wonderful success; God having raised him up to be a Bulwork to Christians against the inundation and rage of Barbarous Nations in the decay and ruin of the Empire. And in prosecuting the Narrative hereof, [Page] I shall first set down his actions during the Life of his Brother Caroloman, then what he did from the the time of his death, till he was made Emperour, and lastly what his Deportment was from thence to his Death.

Caroloman, Carolomans Envy. being Crowned King at Soissons, as Charles was at Wormes, began to be extream jealous of his Brothers greatness, whom, with grief, he saw to be beloved, honoured, and obeyed by all the French, and that deservedly for his singular virtues and endowments both of Body and mind. This jealousie (too ordinary a concomitant of Princes) made him seek by all means to undermine, and overthrow the affairs of Charlemagne, whose Eyes were fixed upon Italy, as the fittest, and most glorious Theatre wherein to exercise his valour, and to maintain his authority and power amongst Christians; and Caroloman did all that possibly he could to cross his designs therein. But before I bring him upon that stage, give me leave to shew you what at this time was the State of Italy, and Rome.

Rome (sometimes the Head of the World) was of late become the Chios ofThe State of Rome. all confusion, the Randevouz of all Barbarous Nations, as if they had vowed the ruin thereof by turns, having already sackt it three times. For under the Empire of Honorious, Anno Christi 414. The Goths, under their King Alaricus, after two years siege, took it, and sackt it, but did not dismantle it. Forty five years after, during the Empire of Martian, Anno Christi 459. the Vandales, under the conduct of Genserick their King, took it again, sackt it, spoiled and disgraced it, leading the Widow of the Emperour Valentinian the third, away in Triumph. And in the time of Justinian the Emperour, the Goths, under the command of Totila, having weakned it by a long siege, took it, sackt, and dismantled it. Thus Rome was no more Rome, but a spectacle of horrid confusion; after so many devastations retaining nothing of her antient beauty, but only the traces of her old buildings, and the punishment of her Idolatry and Tyranny; Afterwards the Longobards, or Lombards held Italy, for the space of two hundred years, till by our Charlemagne they were subdued, and expelled.

Presently after the Death of Pepin, the Church of Rome fell into great confusions by the pactices of Didier King of Lombardy, who having corrupted some of the Clergy, caused Constantine, Brother to Toton, Duke of Nepezo, to be chosen Pope,Several Popes chosen. which he persecuted with such violence, that he procured Philippicus, who ws already Canonically chosen, to be deposed: But the better party, seeing themselves contemned by the Lombards, assembled together, and by common consent, chose Steven the third (a Sicilian by birth) Pope; who being conscious to his own weakness, resolved to call in the King of France, and to oppose him against his too-powerful enemies.

Charles being thus sollicited by the Pope, sent twelve Prelates speedily to Rome, that he might strengthen the Popes party against the other, intending in a greater need to apply a greater remedy; and the matter succeeded according to his desire. For a Counsel being assembled at Lateran, they confirmed Steven, Steven confirmed. lawfully chosen, and deposed Constantine, who was set up by disorder and violence. But Didier would not rest satisfied with this affront, and seeing that force had succeeded no better, he rosolved to try Policy, intending to undermine Steven with fair pretences; For which end he sent to congratulate his Election,Didiers Policy. purged himself in reference to the Anti-Pope Constantine, now degraded: accused both him and his Brother Toton of ambition, and protested to live with Steven in amity; and to manifest this his good meaning, he desired him to be pleased with his repair to Rome, that there he might confer with him in private. The Pope (who never seeks to the French but in case of necessity) was easily perswaded by Didier, who came to Rome, confered with the Pope, and made great Protestations of his Obedience to him. But these his fair shews continued not long.

[Page] There was at this time at Rome a Governour for the Eastern Emperour, called Paul Ephialte, him Didier corrupted, and the administration of Justice being in his hands, he made use of him so cunningly, as that in the presence of Pope Steven, he caused him to seize upon two of his chief Secretaries, Christopher, and Sergius (whom Didier accused of some pretended crimes)The Popes Secretaries hanged. and presently to hang them in an infamous manner. Their greatest offence was, because they favoured the French. Neither did he rest here, but caused all the principal Citizens to be banished, whom he observed to be of the French faction, that so, having removed all hinderances, he might be Master of Rome in despite of the Pope.

Steven was not so dull but he discovered the Lombards practice exceedingly to tend to his prejudice:The Pope sends for King Charles. whereupon he sent to Charlemagne, beseeching him to prepare an Army against Didiers force. This Charlemagne easily assented to, and fully resolved upon: But Didier had provided a divertisement in France by the means of Caroloman, to stop Charles his passage into Italy, making work for him in Guienne, where there arose a perilous War upon this occasion.

Though the Country of Guienne depended upon the Crown of France, Troubles in Guienne. yet were there many Tumults raised by the practices of some Noblemen of the Country, who frequently stirred up the people (mutinous enough of themselves) to Rebellion. The cause of these Troubles, was the abuse of the former Kings Clemency and Bounty, who suffered such people as he conquered, to enjoy their priviledges and liberties. Eudon (a Nobleman of Guienne) began first under Martel, Jeffery and Hunalt his Children, and heirs of his discontent, had continued it under Pepin; and Jeffery being now dead, Hunalt succeeded him with the like hatred, which Caroloman fomented, that he might imploy him against his Brother Charles.

Guienne was a part of Charles his portion: But Hunalts design was, to withdraw that Country wholly from the Crown of France, and for that end he pretended a Title to the Dukedom thereof, labouring to procure the people to Elect him, having the promise, and assistance of Caroloman to further him therein. Indeed the countenance of Caroloman could do much; but the wisdom and courage of Charlemagne prevailed more: For being advertised of Hunalts practice, and of his Brothers secret designs, he armed with such speed, as that he surprised the Towns of Poictiers, Xante, and Angoulesm, and all the Country adjoyning,Charles subdues Hunalt. Hunalt (who had reckoned without Charles) finding himself thus prevented, fled to a Noble man of that Country called Loup, whom he held, not only to be firm to his faction, but also his trusty and affectionate friend.

Charlemagne being informed hereof, sent presently to Loup, requiring him to deliver Hunalt into his hands, who was guilty of high Treason; and in the mean time he built a Fort in the midst of the Country,Charles his Policy and Glemency. where the Rivers of Dordonne, and Lisle do joyn, which he called Fronsac, the better to secure his Country against such Invaders. Loup, not daring to refuse, delivered up Hunalt, and all his Family into the hands of Charles, who pardoned Loup, and all that obeyed him; thus ending a dangerous War without blows: And to Hunalt he granted life, and liberty, and the enjoyment of his goods; leaving a memorable example to all Princes how to carry themselves in a Civil War, preventing a mischief by prudence; and diligence, and not to thrust their vanquished Subjects into despair by rigour.

Caroloman seeing his practices against his Brother to succeed so ill, undertook a journy to Rome, with an intent to cause some alterations there, which yet he covered with a pretence of devotion. He also took his Mother Berthe along with him, and in their passage, they were hourably entertained by Didier King of the Lombards, where Berthe treated, and concluded a marriage between her Son Charlemagne, and Theodora, Sister, or Daughter to this Didier, who was one of the greatest enemies to her Sons good fortune. Yet [Page] Charlemagne (to please his Mother) received his Wife,Charles his marriage. but soon after, put her away, as neither suiting with his affects, or affairs, and so, that which was intended as a cause of love, bred a greater hatred betwixt these two Princes. Caroloman having affected nothing at Rome answerable to his desire, but only discovered his foolish, and malicious jealousie, too apparent under his feigned devotion,Carolomans death. returned into France, and there soon after died. Anno Christi 770. Leaving the intire Kingdom to his Brother, who had how no Corrival.

Charlemagne having put away his Wife Theadora upon suspition of incontinency,Charles his second marriage. he married Hildegard, or Ildegrade, Daughter to the Duke of Sueve, his Vassal, by whom he had Charles, Pepin, and Lewis, and three Daughters, Rotrude, Berthe, and Gille, who were the Nursery of his Noble Family. But Carolomans jealousie died not with him, but survived in his Wife Berthe, who (being impatient of her present condition, and thrust headlong with a spirit of revenge against her Brother in Law, Charles) retired with her two Sons to Didier, King of Lombardy, as to the most bitter, and irreconcilable enemy of her Brother Charles. Didier intertained her and her Children very courteously, hoping by them to promote his design: But it proved the leaven of his own destruction. His practice (together with the Widows) was to procure the present Pope,Pope Adrian. who (Steven being dead) was one Adrian, a Roman Gentleman, to Crown, and confirm the Sons of Caroloman for Kings of France, wherein the Lombard had two designs. First, by this means to bring the Pope in disgrace with Charlemagne, that he might the easilier suppress him, being destitute of the French aides, whereon he chiefly relyed; and Secondly to set France in a flame, by setting up new Kings in it. Didier therefore earnestly besought the Pope to grant this favour to the Sons of Caroloman for his sake:Didiers Policy. besought the Pope to grant this favour to the Sons of Caroloman for his sake: But Adrian (well acquainted with the Lombards humour) was so resolute in denying his request, as that they fell into open hatred. And Didier being much displeased with this repulse, took Arms, and with his Forces entred into the Exarchy, He makes War against the Pope. being a Signory under the Popes jurisdiction, and besieged Ravenna, the chief City of the Exarchy: Whereupon the Pope sent his Nuncio to him, to expostulate the cause of this so sudden War against his Subjects; desiring him to restore what he had taken, and not to procced in this Hostile manner without any reasonable cause, and that upon the pain of Excommunication.

At the same time there fell out a great occasion to encrease the hatred betweenHunalts ingratitude. Charlemagne and Didier: For that Hunalt (who had been before vanquished in Guienne, and to whom Charles had shew'd so much favour) very ingratefully retired himself to Didier, who did not only receive him courteously, but honoured him by making him General of his Army which he had raised against the Pope. And Didier suffered himself to be so far abused by the insinuations, and perswasions of Hunalt, touching the means to attempt something against the Estates of Charlemagne, that holding Italy undoubtedly for his own, he plotted a War, and assured himself of a certain Victory in France. Thus Ambition and Covetousness hastens mens ruin. The Pope having no other defence to secure his Estate but his Excommunication, which against Didier proved but Brutum fulmen, a meer scare-crow, he was forced to have recourse to Charlemagne, The Pope sends to Charles for aid. as to his Sacred Anchor, or last Hope, intreating speedy aid from him in this his great necessity. Charlemagne had great reason to Arm against Didier, who had always crossed his affairs; fed and fomented his Brothers jealousies, entertained his Widow, and Children, and laboured to have them chosen Kings of France, and all to trouble or ruin his estate. He had also received his rebellious Subjects, and with their aid, practice to make a War against him.

The sollicitation, and request also of the Roman Church was a great incentive [Page] to induce him to Arm, against him, who professed himself to be an open Enemy to the Christian Religion,Charles Arms against Didier. whereof the former Kings of France had shewed themselves Protectors, and Guardians. But that he might not attempt any thing rashly, he first sent his Ambassadours to the Pope, to assure him of his good will, and promising not to be wanting to him in his necessity: Yet withal, to tell him, that he thought it best, first to use mildness, before he attempted force against the Lombard. He therefore sent also his Ambassadours to Didier to summon him to restore what he had taken from the Pope, and to suffer him to live in Peace. Didier (who relied much upon his Policy) gave good words to the Ambassadours, promising them to perform all that Charles required, but in effect, he would have the Pope to accept of conditions of Peace from him, and that the Children of Caroloman should be declared Kings of France.

These demands were judged so unreasonable, that the Treaty was broken, and the French Ambassadours returned home: And Didier prosecutes his War against the Church more eagerly than he did before;Didier prospers in his Wars. and having spoiled all the Territories of Ravenna, he took Faenza, Ferrara, Comachia, Campagnia, and Romandiola, Towns of the six Governments, or Hexarchy. Charlemagnes Ambassadours, upon their return, inform their Master, that the War with the Lombard could not be avoided: and they found Charles in a Posture fit to invade Italy: For he had Levyed a goodly Army to suppress the rebellious Saxons, who (impatient of the French yoke) revolted daily from his Obedience, which Army was now ready to be imployed against the Lombard.

Yet was not Charlemagne willing to attempt any thing in a matter of such importance without the advise of his Estates,Charles calls a Parliament. and therefore he presently summoned a Parliament, and (being loath to lose time) in the mean season he caused his Army to march, and to make their Rendevouz at Geneva, (a Town under his Obedinece, and in the way to Italy) and having divided his Army into two Parts, he seized upon the Passages of Mount-Cenis, and St. Bernard, which are the two entrances from France into Italy.

The Estates at their meeting having found the Causes of War againstEnters Italy, and heats Didier. Didier, King of Lombardy, to be just, Charlemagne caused his Army to advance with all speed, and to adjoyn near to Verceil. There Didier attended him and gave him Battel: But at the first encounter he was vanquished by Charlemagne. After which, the Lombard rallying, and re-enforcing his Army, fights him again, and was again beaten, and so shattered were his Troops, that he was enforced to suffer his Enemy to be Master of the Field; which proved an infallible Harbinger to his total ruin. Thus having tumultuously trussed up what he could in such haste, he sent his Son Aldegise to Verona, with the Widow and Children of Caroloman: and cast himself into Pavia, which he had diligently Fortified, as the Fortress, or Dungeon rather of his last Fortune.

Charlemagne pursues him at the heels,Charles besieges Pavia, and Verona. and with all his Forces besieged him in Pavia, resolving to have it at what price soever. And to make his resolution the more manifest, he sent for his Wife and Children into Italy, to the end that the Italians (who hitherto were doubtful to whom to adhere) might know his mind, and without attending any new occurrents, might resolve to obey the Victor.

Having thus cooped up Didier in Pavia, and seised upon all the avenues, he resolved to attempt Verona also, which they held to be the strongest place in all Lombardy. So leaving his Uncle Bernard to continue the siege of Pavia, he marched with part of his Army to Verona.

His beginnings being so successful,The Italians submit to him. and this Check given to Didier, (who was now, as it were, shut up in Prison,) gave a great alteration to the affairs [Page] of either party amongst these people of divers humours. The Spoletines, and Reatines, and those of Ancona, of Fermo, and of Ossino (striving as it were, which should be first) yielded to Charlemagne, and detested the wretched, and forelorn estate of Didier, as a worthy reward of his Treachery, Injustice, and Violence. The Venetians (who were Neuters, and Spectators of this Tragedy, and had never dealt in any sort with Didier) offered amity and succours to Charlemagne, who desired them to keep the Seas quiet, lest the Emperour of Constantinople should espouse Didiers quarrel, and cause any new disturbance.

Charlemagne staid not long about Verona before the City began to think of yielding: and Berthe, the Widow of Caroloman, was the chief Instrument to draw them to a surrender, the French Forces being (as she said) very formidable. Aldegise, the Son of Didier, seeing the Citizens so unanimous in their resolutions to open their Gate to the Conquerour, and being unable to relieve his Father, he secretly stole away, and fled to the Emperour of Constantinople. Verona [...] taken. Then did Ver [...]na yield to Charlemagne upon composition, who received both the Inhabitants, and Berthe to mercy, keeping his agreement punctually with them; upon Berthe and her Children, he inflicted no punishment; but only blamed them for their uncivil rashness, and enjoyned them to return into France, there to do better, and to live more honourably. This being about Eas [...]er, Charlemagne took the opportunity to go to Rome, where yet he stayed only eight days to visit the most remarkable places, and to confer with Pope Adrian. The Pope made Charles a Patrician of Rome, which was a step to mount him to the Empire. From thence he hasted, and came to Pavia, which had now been besieged for the space of then months: and being pressed by War without, and by the Famine, and Pestilence within, it at last yielded upon composition: and Didier (who had hated Charles without cause,And Pavia. and attempted War rashly) fell into his enemies hands, who yet shewed himself Prudent in undertaking the War, and mild and modest in his use of the Victory.

Thus Charlemagne having begun the War justly, and ended it happily, ruined the Kingdom of the Lombards in Italy, Didier taken Prisoner. carrying Didier Prisoner with him to Lions, or to Leeg; for Authors agree not of the certain place. This was Anno Christi 776. A notable date to present the Tragical end of so great a Kingdom, which had continued in Italy for the space of two hundred and four years under Princes of divers dispositions. But Pride, Injustice and Tyranny, had provoked the wrath of God against them, so as whilst they thought to take from another, they lost their own; To usurp the liberties of others, they fell into ignominious slavery themselves; and their Subtily proved the occasion, and hastener of their ruin. An excellent Pattern for Princes and great States not to attempt an unjust and unnecessary War, nor to usurp upon any other mans right, thinking to prevail over a good cause by Craft and Policy.

Charlemagne (as was said before) used his Victory with great moderation towards the conquered Nation,Charles his moderation. which gave great content to all the Italians, who held it a gain to have lost their old Master, and to be rightly made free by being subject to so wise a Lord. For he left unto them their ancient liberties, and to particular Princes (such as were Vassals to Didier) their Signiories. To Aragise, Son in Law to Didier, he left the Marquisat of Beneventum. He placed French Governours in conquered Lombardy, whom he ordered to treat these his new Subjects with the like mildness, as he shewed to those of his antient Patrimony left unto him by his Predecessors.

During the siege of Pavia, A Counsel at Rome. Pope Adrian held a Councel at Rome, in favour to Charlemagne, to give him honours answerable to his merits of the Church, [Page] wherein it was declared, that the right to give all Benefices throughout all Christendom did belong to him.

No sooner was Charlemagne returned into France, New troubles in Italy. but Aldegise (the Son of Didier) sought to disquiet Italy, being assisted by Constantine, the Emperour of Constantinople, and the practices of Rogand, to whom Charlemagne had given Friul, who now revolted from his Obedience. But the vigilancy, and care of the Governours whom Charlemagne had set over his new-conquered Subjects,But suppresed. soon put an end to these Rebellions: and Rogand being taken, suffered according to his demerits, being beheaded by the Kings commandment. Thus Italy remaining quiet to him, and his, (as conquered by a just War) it was afterwards incorporated into the French, Monarchy in his posterity, being given in Partage to the Children of France, whilst the good Government of the French Kings maintained the dignity of the Crown.

But the end of this War proved the beginning of another in Germany, Charles his Wars with the Saxons. whereof the Saxons were the chief promoters, drawing other People of Germany into their assistance. This War continued the space of thirty yesrs, yet not without some intermissions: The Saxons having still a mind to oppose and Cross Charlemagne in his proceedings, especially when he was busied in other affairs of great consequence.

These Saxons were subject to the Crown of France, especially under Martel, and Pepin his Son. The motives of this War were divers: The impatiency of a People desiring their antient liberty,The cause of it. and not able to bear subjection to a forreigner: the hatred and jealousie of a Potent Neighbour, threatning them with servitude: A controversie about the limits and bounds of their Lands: But the greatest, and most important cause was, the diversity of Religion: For the Saxons were obstinate in retaining and cleaving to their Pagan superstition, which they had received from their Forefathers, and Charlemagne urged them to forsake their Paganism, and Idolatry, and to make open profession of the Christian Faith; being moved with Zeal to the general advancement of the Truth, and the private Duty of a Prince to his Subjects, to provide for their souls Health. Upon this controversie about Religion the Saxons fought eight times with Charlemagne: especially taking advantage when they found him busied elsewhere, watching their opportunities either to cross him in his designs, or to frustrate his attempts. At such time as he was in Italy against Didier, they played Rex, not only in rejecting the French command, but also in making War against those Cities in Germany which obeyed Charlemagne. They had taken Eresbourg from the Crown of France even upon his return, and besieged Sigisbourg, robbing, and spoiling all the Country round about.

Charlemagne (who would never undertake any weighty matter without good advise) assembled a Parliament at Wormes, Charles calls a Parliament, and by their Counsel and assistance, levied a great Army, to charge the Saxons in divers places at once. This resolution succeeded happily: For having vanquished the Saxons twice in one month in a pitched Field, he soon reduced them to their ancient obedience: Using his Victories with much modesty and discretion; desiring rather to shew them the power of his authority, then the rigour of his Force. The chief amongst the Saxons was Widichind, and as Religion was the chief motive of their frequent Rebellions;The Saxons overcome. so Charlemagne, seeking the establishment of the Christian Religion in Saxony with great Zeal, after much reluctance, happily effected it. For having vanquished this widichind, by reason and humanity, he brought him to the knowledg of the Truth; and by his grave and prudent conversation, he perswaded him without any Violence,And converted. to leave and forsake his Pagan Superstition, which force of Armes could never have effected in him, nor in [Page] the Saxons. For mens souls are not to be compelled with force of Arms, but with reason. And by the means and endeavours of this widichine, the greatest part of the Saxons were brought to the knowledg of the true God, and the obedience of the French Monarch: And the most obstinate were forced, either to submit, or to abandon their Country. And indeed great numbers of Saxons retired themselves into divers strange Countrys.

Thus the War with the Saxons was happily ended (which had been long and dangerous) and the Conquered, by the Truth were the true Conquerours, by attaining to the knowledg of the true God. Charlemagne was very careful to have them well instructed in the Truth: For which end he appointed godly and learned men in all places, and gave them honourable maintenance, whereby he shewed that his Piety was not inferiour to his Valour, and happy success; and for a president to Princes to make Religion the Soveraign end of their Arms and Authorities.

This Widichine was very eminent, both for Wisdom, Valour, and Authority in his Country; and from him are descended many famous Families: as the two Henries, the one called the Fowler, and the other of Bamberg; and the two Othos, all of them Emperours: as also the Dukes of Saxony, the Marquesses of Misnia, the Dukes of Savoy, and the famous race of Hugh Capet in France.

From this War of Saxony did spring up many others in the Northern parts, of which we shall hear afterwards; but because in the Interim their fell out great Wars in Spain against the Sarazins, which (like a Deluge) threatned to over-run all Christendom, I shall intermit the former, till I have spoken something of this latter, that I may proceed with the more clearness in the remainder of this History.

The motive of the Spanish War,Charles his Wars in Spain. was more upon pleasure than necessity: But Zeal of Religion gave a colour and shew of necessity to the Heroical designs of Charlemagne, who sought to enlarge the limits of the French Monarchy by his Arms. But this his Spanish War, as it was undertaken upon lighter grounds, so was it more painful, more dangerous, and less successful then that of Italy, whereunto necessity and duty had drawn Charlemagne; yet did his wise and wary proceeding in the action, warrant him from all blame. The occasions which moved him to bend his Forces against the Sarazins in Spain were, the assurance of good success, the quiet and peace of his Realm, that he might have opportunity to imploy his Souldiery, the hate of the Spaniards against the Sarazins, and the general fear of all Christians, least these Caterpillars should creep further into Europe.

This was the estate of Spain at this time. The Sarazins had conquered a great part of it, and were divided under divers Commands which had the Title of Kingdoms. Yet these divers Kings (being apprehensive of their common danger) resolved to unite their forces against Charlemagne, their common enemy; and foreseeing the Tempest, they sought to prevent it, and to cross the designs of Charlemagne: For which end, they suborned King Idnabala, a Sarazin, being a very subtile, and crafty man, to insinuate himself into the acquaintance, and familiarity of Charlemagne, which stratagem prevailed more then all their power and forces.

Charlemagne was much quickned to this War by Alphonso, Charles circumvented. surnamed the Chast, King of Navar, and by the A [...]turians, and Gallizians (Christian People of Spain) who suggested to him that the War would be easie, profitable, and honourable, and therefore most worthy the Valour, and Fortune of Charlemagne. This Idnabala also (under a shew of friendship) laboured to hasten him to the execution of this enterprise, from which he knew well he could not divert him, that he might the better betray him by discovering his Counsels to the Sarazins.

[Page] Charlemagne being well-affected of himself,Charles calls a Parliament. and thus excited by others, assembled a Parliament at Noyon, and there concluded a War against the Sarazins in Spain. The Army which he employed in this action was very great, both for number of men, and Valour of Commanders, and Chieftains, being the most choice and Worthy Captains in all Christendome: amongst whom,His great preparations▪ these were of the chiefest note, Milon Earl of Angers: Rowland the Son of Milon, and Berthe, Sister to Charlemagne, Renald of Montaubon. The four Sons of Aymon: Oger the Dane: Oliver Earl of Geneva: Arnold of Belland: Brabin, and many others. The Valour of which Persons, hath been fabulously related by the Writers of those dark times (who for the most part were Friars, concerning whom the Proverb was, A Friar, a Lyar) with the addition of a thousand ridiculous tales, so that the truth is hardly picked out from the midst of so much errour: Yet, what is most probable, and can be gathered out of the most authentick Authors, shall here be set down. They say that Charlemagne, to make this undertaking more honourable in shew, did at this time institute the Order of the twelve Peers of France.

Charlemagne being entred into Spain with his brave Army,His entry into Spain. found no object for them whereon to exercise their Valour: For the Sarazins, resolving to make a defensive, rather than an offensive War, had withdrawn themselves into their Cities, which they had fortified strongly, The most renowned of the Sarazin Kings at this time, were Aigoland, Bellingan, Denises, Marsile, and Idnabala: But this last, as was said before, made shew of much Friendship to Charlemagne, and of open hatred against the other Sarazin Kings; with whom notwithstanding he held secret and strict intelligence to betray Charlemagne unto them.

The first City that the French attempted,Pampelune taken. was Pampelune, in the Kingdom of Navarr, the which they took by force, but with much pains, danger, and loss. Having sackt this City, and put all the Sarazins in it to the Sword, they marched to Saragoce, which yielded to them upon composition, as did also many other small Towns, being terrified with the example of Pampelune. This prosperous beginning encouraged Charlemagne to advance forward, relying on his wonted Fortune, and good success: But as he passed through the Provinces of Spain, like a Victorious Prince, without any opposition, he divided his Army, and gave part of it to be conducted by Milon of Angers, his Brother in Law, who in his march near unto Bayon, was set upon by Aigoland, the Sarazin King, who in this common danger had thrust an Army into the Field,Milon defeated. and now assaulted Milon, and his Troops, little expecting any Enemy, and took him at such an advantage, as he defeated him.

This loss was very great; For Writers say, that forty thousand of the French here lost their lives; Milon himself being also slain, for a confirmation of the Sarazins Victory. Charlemagne was at this time afar off, and so not able by any diligence to prevent the loss. Yet he suppressed his grief and trouble, least he should discourage the whole Army: and so hastening thitherward, he gathered up the remainder of those broken, and dispersed Troops, withall, keeping the conquered Cities, and such as were Friends, in their due Obedience: But after this, there fell out another accident.

Aigoland being puffed up with Pride through his late Victory,Aigoland entred France▪ marched with his Army into Gascoine, and besieged Agen, to divert Charlemagne from his pursuit,Charles returns. and to draw him home to defend his own Country. So as Charlemagne, fearing least his own absence, and the Sarazins late Victory should cause any alteration in the minds of them of Guienne, being then Subjects of whom he had no great assurance, he returned into France. [Page]Aigoland had now continued some moneths at the siege of Agen, yet had prevailed little, but only in over-running the Country, which he did freely (without any considerable resistance) even unto Xaintonge; the Country-men in the mean time retiring into the Walled Towns, expected the return of Charlemagne their King: Aigolands Army was very great, and puffed up with the remembrance of their late Victory: So as Charlemagne returning with his Forces from Spain well tired, he maintained his Countries more through his authority, than by present force; yet did he give life to the courage of his Subjects with his presence, and bridled the proud Sarazin, who could not be ignorant with whom he had to deal, nor where he was, being environed with the enemies on all sides, and in an enemies Country.

Hereupon Aigoland, Aigoland's Policy. pretending an inclination to Peace, gave Charlemagne to understand that he had been the first Invader, and that his own comming into France was only to draw his Enemy out of Spain, and to cause him to leave to the Sarazins their conquered Countries free: and therefore (said he) the Treaty of an accord is easie, seeing all the question is only to leave to every man his own, and to suffer him to enjoy it quietly, the World being wide enough for us all. But to the end this Treaty might take good effect, after many messages to and fro, they resolve to come to a Parlee: and upon Charlemagne's Faith given, Aigoland came to his Camp.

Charlemagne, either really moved with a zeal for Religion, or at least, making it the colour of his Actions, gave the Sarazin to understand, that he should have his Friendship if he would leave his Pagan Superstition, be Baptized, and make open profession of Christianity. The Sarazin, although he had a goodly Army, yet not willing to hazard any thing, and content with his former revenge upon Charlemagne, desired nothing more than to return quietly into Spain. And being now in the midst of his Enemies Camp, to maintain his reputation, he made no shew at all of fear, but talking to his own advantage (as if no Force, but only reason should move him) he entred into a serious and cunning discourse with Charlemagne, shewing, That unnecessary Wars were the ruin of Mankind, and that he was grieved to see so much Blood spilt: That he had not begun, but followed, being urged by necessity to defend himself and his Countrey against the Forces of Charlemagne: That he was not yet so dejected, nor his Forces so weak as to refuse the Battel: But for that it would be an infinite loss to hazard the lives of so many men, he desired rather to make tryal of the right by some Troops, and they that vanquished, should be deemed to have the right, and true Religion on their side: Protesting to yield to that Religion, which should appear to be the best upon this tryal. This Proposal and condition was accepted by Charlemagne: The combate was fought, the proof made, and the Christian Troop vanquished that of the Sarazin.

Then did Aigoland protest openly,Aigolands dissimulation. that he would become a Christian, but in heart he had no such meaning, and therefore took this opportunity to fly from his promise. He gives Charlemagne a visit, and finds him at the Table, well accompanied with his chief followers, (for then it was the custome of Kings not to sit and eat alone) but, casting his eye aside, he saw twelve poor men, ill apparelled, sitting upon the ground, near to the Table of the Noblemen, and demanded what those poor, miserable creatures were, which did there feed apart? One answered, That they were the servants of God: He then replied, Surely your God is of small account, whose servants are so miserable and contemptible: And thereupon takes an occasion to retire himself, having lost nothing, but made great advantage by this Treaty: Having hereby qualified the force of Charlemagne, [Page] viewed his Army, made shew of his own courage and dexterity, and all without an Ambassadour.

Charlemagne on the other side,Charles returns into Spain. seeing himself thus deluded and affronted, was resolved to take revenge for so notable a loss of men, and so bold an attempt of the Sarazin, so that with all speed he raised an Army of a hundred and thirty thousand men, and being thus fraught with Choler and indignation, he returned into Spain. His first entry was prosperous: For in the encounter he defeated Aigolands Army near to Pampelune, Aigoland overthrown and slain. and for a Seal of his Victory, he carried away the head of Aigoland his Enemy, who was slain by the hand of Arnold of Belange, a Noble and Valiant Knight: But the sequel was not answerable to the beginning: For notwithstanding the overthrow of the Sarazin Troops, all the rest in Spain were not vanquished, where there were more Kings, and more men of War, who kept correspondence with Amurath King of Babylon, which place was their Nursery and Store-house.

Marsile and Belingand, The Sarazins rally. two Brethren, were the chief of thè remainder of the Sarazin Army, wherein there was a great Babylonian Gyant, called Ferragat, A Gyant slain. of an exceeding stature, him did Rowland slay, who was Nephew to Charlemagne; after which, the Sarazins gathered together the relicts of their broken Troops, and made a shew of resolute men, vowing to sell their lives at a dear rate to Charlemagne, being favoured by many great and good Towns in the Countrey. Charlemagne makes a sudden stop, and pursues not his Victory, God reserving to himself a Sovereign power over all mens designes, yea, over the greatest, and in matters of greatest consequence, to the end that all may learn to ask Counsel and success of him, and it was his will and pleasure that the French Forces should not conquer and possess Spain, the which he had reserved as a portion for another Nation.

Thus Charles, A Treaty of Peace. who should have prosecuted his late Victory vigorously, grew remiss, which encouraged Idnabala the Sarazin (who had free access into the Camp) to make a motion of Peace. He was a good Secretary of his own Companions minds, what shew soever he made of speaking of himself. Charlemagne (finding by his late experience, that the event of War is uncertain and doubtful, and that this War tended to the loss of his Subjects, who imployed both their lives and goods for the purchase of an uncertain Victory, and seeing himself overburdened with great affairs in his other Estates, to the preservation whereof, reason did summon him rather than to seek for new) he seemed not unwilling to hearken to the motion of Idnabala, who assured him, that he found the Sarazins affairs to be so desperate, that they would be glad to embrace his friendship at whatsoever rate they purchased it. The Treaty hereupon began, and the chief Article was propounded, which was, that they should embrace the Christian Religion, and this Charlemagne seemed to urge with great vehemency: but finding the Sarazins obstinate in their refusal, he was content to grant them peace, paying him some great sums of money, as a token that they had been vanquished by him.

And accordingly he sent a Noble man of his Court,A Traytor. named Ganes, to treat with them, who (being by bribes corrupted by Marsile and Belingand) undertook so to order businesses, that Charlemagne should return into France, and by the way, should receive a notable disgrace: yet they seemed to make such a composition and agreement, which in shew, was very honourable for Charlemagne: to whom they promised to pay (as an Homage, and acknowledgment for the Peace he should grant them) [Page] what sums of money he would appoint, and that thereupon he should retire with his Army into France; yet leaving such Forces in Spain as he pleased, to see the condition which should be agreed upon, performed. But Ganes had discovered to them, that Charlemagne upon other accounts was necessitated to return, and therefore desired to leave the smallest Forces that he could in Spain.

The Agreement being thus concluded,Charles returns into France. Charlemagne departed with his Army, attending a better opportunity to effect what he had designed: and he left his Nephew Rowland only with twenty thousand men, to see the conditions performed. And to make his passage into France the more easie, he commanded him to lodge in a place of advantage in the Pyrenean mountains, called Ro [...]cevaux: and so the French Army marched backwards to France, under the conduct of Charlemagne, who little dreamed of such an affront as he shortly after met with.

Whilst the French Army were upon their retreat, Marsile and Bellingand slept not, but gathering together all the Forces they could, they lodged them secretly in the hollow Caves of those Mountains, being places inaccessible, and wholly unknown but only to the Inhabitants of those Countries. They had intelligence given them by Ganes, what number of men Charlemagne had left in Spain, under the command of Rowland, to whom the reputation of his Uncle, and the good will of the People of Spain in the chiefest Towns, was of more use than his twenty thousand men, although they were the choice of all the Army. Rowland had no fear of an Enemy,Rowland assaulted. whenas returning to his Garrison, he was suddenly set upon by the Sarazins, who were far more in number than the French, who seeing themselves thus treacherously assaulted, and compassed in, defended themselves valiantly against those miscreants: But still fresh Troops of Sarazins issued forth of these Caves, on every side, in so great numbers, as that in the end, the French (tired and spent in so long and painful a conflict) were oppressed by the multitudes, rather than overcome by the Valour of their Enemies.

Rowland in so great and extream a danger (gathering together the pieces of his shipwrack) performed both the Duty of a good Commander,His Valour. and of a valiant and resolute Souldier, fighting gallantly, and having beaten down a great number where the Enemies were thickest, he at length came where King Marsile was, whom he slew with his own hands. But Belingand, holding the Victory absolutely his own, pursued the French with great violence; insomuch as Rowland (not able to hold out any longer) retired himself apart;His Death. and finding his Death approaching, he endeavoured to break his good Sword Durandall, but his strength failing him, he died of Thirst, through so long and difficult a combate in that hot Country: and with him died Oliver, Oger the Dane, Renald of Montaubon, Arnald of Belland, and other Noble Personages, who are the subject of many fabulous stories: Yet the Fame of their singular Virtues and Prowess, is engraven in the Original of true Histories, where it shall never be blotted out.

Charlemagne having intelligence brought him of this great and unexpected loss,Charles overcomes the Sarazins. returned suddenly, to take his revenge upon the Sarazins, of whom [...]he killed an infinite number in several places: and being informed of the Treason of Ganes, he caused him to be drawn in pieces by four Horses, as the only author of this miserable defeat. And being transported with a just disdain and indignation for this so base an affront, he had purposed to have passed on in Spain to take further revenge. But the great and weighty affairs of his other estates called him back into France, to attend upon [Page] them.Returns into France. And so ended his Spanish Wars, with small success, having troubled Charlemagne at divers times, for the space of fourteen years. For God had appointed the limits of his designs, as reserving to himself a Sovereign power over all mens enterprizes, even of the greatest.

Charlemagne made a Tomb for his Nephew Rowland, and honoured the memory of those other worthy Warriers (who died in the Bed of Honour) with Monuments: after which he was necessitated to undertake divers other Wars, both in Italy and Germany, in all which it pleased God to give him better success.A Rebellion in Italy. Italy (during Charles his troubles in Spain) had rebelled, being provoked thereto by Adalgise Duke of Beneventum, who endeavoured to repossess the Race of Didier: but that attempt was soon suppressed by Charlemagne, to the cost of the Lombard Rebells: Yet shortly after ensued another War in Germany.

The like occasion also bred a War in Bavaria: His Wars in Bavaria. For the King Tassillon, who was Son in Law to Didier King of Lombardy, (being eagerly pressed by his Wife, and wonderfully discontented with Charlemagne) shaked off the yoke of subjection, and betook himself to Arms: But Charlemagne surprized him with such celerity, that Tassillon was forced to sue for Peace; which Charlemagne granted upon condition of his subjection and loyalty: But again Tassillon, not able to contain himself, raised a new War in another place, as when we stop one breach, it finds vent by another. He stirred up the Huns and Avars (a neighbouring People to Austria, which was one of the Estates of the French Monarchy) against Charlemagne, who yet suppressed them with happy success; and Tassillon himself being again vanquished by Charlemagne, and found guilty of Rebellion and Treason, was condemned to lose his Estate, according to the Salique Law: and with him, the Kingdom of Bavaria ended, being now wholly incorporated into the Crown of France.

The Huns and Avars (of whose names joyned together, the word Hungary hath been made) were also punished by Charlemagne, and brought under the yoke of the French Monarchy. They had formerly attempted by War to disquiet the Country of Austria, whom Charlemagne had at divers times opposed by his Forces, so that the War, at times, had continued for the space of eight years,His Victories. and the final issue was, that all the Countrey obeyed him: The Danes also, the Sorabes, and Abrodites, and the Westphalians, (who had all joyned in this War of Hungary) were also brought under the obedience of Charlemagne. The limits of the Northern Kingdom, called Austrasia, were so enlarged, that it was divided into two Kingdoms, and the Realm of Austria which joyns upon France, was called Westriech, that is to say, the Realm of the West; and that which is towards Danubius, was called Ostriech, that is, the Kingdom of the East, Austria being then of a greater command than at this day. For it contained all Hungary, Valachia, Bohemia, Transylvania, Denmark and Poland: Then was the French Monarchy of a vast extent. But all these Nations have since, either returned to their first beginning, or new Lords have seized upon them.

Thus the French Monarchy was greatly enlarged by the Prowess andHis education of his children. Valour of Charlemagne: and his children were grown up, as in age, so in knowledge and experience, through the careful education which their prudent Father gave them; who framed them to the management of affairs, intending them to provide, that they might first succeed him in his Virtues, and afterwards in his Kingdoms. But man purposeth, and God disposeth, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Hungary, made the Roman Empire in the West, and Charlemagne, being Master of these goodly Provinces, was in effect an Emperour, but only wanted the Title, and the solemn Declaration of this [Page] dignity. And shortly after, the Providence of God that gave him the former, ministred opportunity to him for the enjoyment of the latter, which came thus to pass.

Leo was at this time Pope of Rome, A Sedition in Rome. against whom there was strange Sedition raised by Sylvester and Campul, men of great credit in the Court of Rome. These men (with their adherents) upon a solemn day of Procession, seized upon Leo before St. Lawrence Church, whom they stripped of his Pontifical Robes, cast him unto the ground, trod him under their feet, and bruised his face with their fists, and having dragged him ignominiously through the dirt, they cast him into Prison, where yet he stayed not long, being freed by a Groom of his chamber called Albin: and so having recovered St. Peters Church, he sent to Vingise Duke of Spoleto, intreating him to deliver him from this miserable Captivity.The Pope freed out of Prison. Flies to Charles. Vingise failed him not, but came to Rome, and carried the Pope along with him to Spoleto; where yet he stayed not long, but from thence went to Charlemagne, into France, whom he found full of troubles. He complained that many of the Romans sought to usurp his Power into their hands, and advised the King to exact an Oath of Fidelity of them. Paschalis was there soon after him, and accused the Pope of Adultery, and other gross crimes. Charlemagne dismissed them both, and promised to be at Rome within a few months, and accordingly prepared for his Journey.

In December, Charles goes to Rome. Anno Christi 800. Charlemagne was received in Rome with all shews of Honour, and within eight dayes he went into St. Peters Church, and in the presence of all the People and Clergy, he asked, who had any thing to say against Pope Leo? Paschalis, or Paschasires, and Campalus had published the Popes crimes by Writ: but knowing how Charlemagne stood affected towards both parties, they appeared not; so none prosecuting these crimes against him, the Pope was absolved upon his Oath; wherein he swore by God and the four Evangelists,Clears the Pope upon his Oath. that all these things were false which they layed to his charge: Whereupon the King declared him innocent, and condemned his accusers, and within few dayes three hundred of them were beheaded in the Lateran Field for their presumption, and affectation of liberty, on the eighteenth of December; and shortly after, Charles was chosen Emperour: But before I speak of that, I must represent you with a brief view of the present estate and condition of the Emperour of Constantinople.

The seat of the Roman Empire,The State of the Eastern Empire. since the time of Constantine the great, remained at Constantinople, a City of Thrace, situated in a convenient place for the Guard of the Eastern Provinces: After which, all the West being full of new Guests, who had expelled the Romans, the name, authority and power of the Empire remained in the East, where now the State was in a strange confusion, the Mother being banded against her Son, and the People amongst themselves.

Constantine the Son of Leo the Fourth, was Emperour at this time, who from his Infancy was governed (together with the Empire) by his Mother Irene: But being now come to the age of twenty years, he assumed the Government into his own hands.Contention about Images. There was then a great division in the East, which had been continued from Father to Son for fourscore years together, about bringing Images into the Churches. The Bishops would needs bring them in: But the Emperours, together with the greatest part of the People, opposed themselves against them. This contention had its beginning under Philip Bardanes, was continued under Leo Isaurus, and from him was derived to his Son Constantine, sirnamed Copronimus, and to Leo the Fourth, Son to the said Constantine. This filled all the East with infinite scandals.

[Page] The same fire of contention continued in the minority of our Constantine, who was yet governed by his Mother, a Woman of a violent spirit, who had undertaken the protection of Images,A Counsel from them. and held a Counsel of many Bishops for the defence thereof: But the people growing into a mutiny, by force expelled them from Constantinople, where there Assemhly was held. But Irene, being resolved to carry on her design, assembled another Councel at Nicea, City of Bithinia, honoured for having entertained the first general Councel under Constantine the Great, the first of that name: where it was Decreed, that Images should be placed in Churches for devotion. But Charlemagne did not allow of this Decree,Charles against Images. and either himself, or some other by his Command, did write a small Treatise against this Councel, the which bears this Title, A Treatise of Charlemagne, touching Images, against the Greek Synode.

This crafty Woman made choise of the City of Nicea, that the name of the ancient first Council held there, might honour this new invention with the pretext of Antiquity: For there are some that confound the first Council of Nicea with the second, and Constantine the fourth with the first.

Constantine continued in the hereditary hatred of his Father, and Grandfather against Images, so as being of age, and in absolute possession of his Empire, he disannulled all these new decrees, and caused the Images to be beaten down in all places: Yet did he make all shews of respect to his Mother, yielding unto her a good part of his authority and command: which respect was the cause of an horrible Tragedy. For this Woman being transported for two causes (both by reason of her new opinion, and for despight that she had not the whole Government in her own power) grew so unnatural, that she resolved to dispossess her Son of the Empire, and to seize upon it herself: And indeed the authority which her Son had left her, and the free access which she had unto his Person, gave her opportunity for the execution of her design. For having corrupted such as had the chief Forces of the Empire at their command,An unnatural Mother. and won them to her with her Sons Treasure, she seized on his Person, put out his eyes, and sent him into Exile (where, shortly after, he died of grief) and took possession of the Empire.

These unnatural and Tragick furies were practised in the East, whiles that Charlemagne, by his great Valour built an Empire in the West. Irene, in her Son Constantines life time would have married him with the eldest Daughter of Charlemagne: but this accident crossed that design.

After the Death of Constantine, Irene trears with Charles. Irene sent to Charlemagne to excuse her self of the murther, disavowing it, and laying the blame upon such as had done it (as she pretended) without her command. And to win the good liking of Charlemagne, she caused him to be dealt withall about marriage (for at that time Festrude was dead) with promise to consent that he should be declared Emperour of the West, and that she also would resign unto him the Empire of the East: But Charlemagne would not accept of her profers.Irene hated and deposed. The Nobility and People of the Greek Empire did so hate Irene, as having suffered her the space of three years, in the end, they resolved to dispossess her.

This Woman, the unnatural murtheress of her own Child, being thus publickly hated and detested,Nicephorus succeeds her. Nicephorus, a great and Noble man of Greece, assisted by the chiefest in the Court, and with the good liking, and consent of the People, seized upon the Empire, and took Irene, whom yet he only banished, to give her opportunity and means to live better than she had done: And afterward he treated, and agreed with Charlemagne, that the Empire [Page] of the East continuing under his command, the other of the West should remain to Charles.

By this Transaction of Nicephorus, He treats with Charles. and the consent of the Greeks, the possession of the Empire was ratified and confirmed to Charlemagne, and now began the Division of the Empire into the East and West. That of the West began in Charlemagne, and continued in his Posterity, whilest they were Inheritors of their Fathers virtues: But afterwards it was translated to the Princes of Germany, who yet acknowledg Charlemagne to have risen from a German stock, being born at Wormes, Crowned at Spire, and interred at Aix, all Cities of Germany. Hitherto we have represented, what Charlemagne did whilest he was King of France only: Now we are come to consider what hapned to him, worthy of Memory, whilst he was Emperour.

The deeds of Charlemagne after he came to the Empire.

The Romanists do boast that the Pope gave the Empire of the West unto Charlemagne: But the truth is, the Popes had not yet come to that hight as to pretend to a power of disposing of Empires and Kingdoms at their own pleasure: But the right of Charles came another way. For before he came to Rome Anno Christi 800. he had all France under his Government, together with Franconia, His large Dominions. and Austrasia; He had subdued a great part of Spain unto the River Iberus, from the Sarazins: As also Saxony, westphalia, Dacia, Hungary, Istria, Dalmatia. He had likewise subdued all Italy, except Magna Graecia, and therefore he was entitled, Charles by the Grace of God King of the Frenches, Emperour of the Lombards, and Patricius of Rome: So he stiles himself in his Epistle to Alcwin: and Alcwin in an Epistle to him, stiles him, The Glorious Emperour [Gallicarum] of France, and Rector & Defensor Ecclesiae: Both which Epistles are in the second Part of Alcwins Works. His Coronation was by the Decree and Prayers of the Romane People. Sigisbert in his Chronicon, shews the time, and cause, saying: The Romanes, who in heart were long before faln from the Emperours of Constantinople: Taking the opportunity that Irene had picked out the eyes of her own Son the Emperour, with one General consent they resolved to proclaim King Charles for their Emperour, and to Crown him by the hands of the Pope:His Title to the Empire. So on Decemb. 25. Anno Christi 800. they Crowned him by the hands of Pope Leo, as the Emperours were wont to be Crowned by the Bishops of Constantinople; and the People cryed thrice, Carolo Augusto, à Deo Coronato, Magno & Pacifico Imperatori, Vita & Victoria, Naucler. And the Pope anointed him: As also his Son Pepin, whom Charlemagne, by a solemn Decree had made King of Italy. And the Pope knowing the dangers which had oft befaln himself and his Predecessors, intreated the Emperour that he would be Protector of the Church of Rome.

Thus Charlemagne, the King of France, was advanced to the Empire, partly by Inheritance, partly by the Sword, by dedition, and the Title was given him by the People, and the Bishop of Rome: yet nothing was proper to the Bishop, but the Coronation and other Ceremonies, which he performed in the name of the People, according to the custom at Constantinople. At the same time also it was agreed,An Agreement betwixt Charles and the Pope. that all the chief men of the City, as well Ecclesiastical, as Secular, should give their Oath of Fidelity unto the Emperour. Secondly, That the Emperours Missus should reside in the Pallace of St. Peter to decide Pleas amongst the People: and that there should be allotted for his maintenance, a part of the former Emperours Patrimony. Thirdly, That if any mans cause was perverted by the ordinary Judges, and the wronged Person should implore the aid of the Missus, [Page] or Emperours Commissioner, for Justice; and the Missus should adjure the Judges, saying, By the Faith you owe unto my Lord the Emperour, I require you to do this man Justice: Then none should dare to decline, either to the right hand or to the left, although the wrong were done by any of the Popes Kinsmen. Fourthly, That the Mulcts which should be imposed upon any guilty person, should be equally divided between the Emperours Missus, and the Popes Missus. Fifthly, That if any goods fell under Escheat, they should appertain to the Church, without an express gift of the Emperour. Continu. Eutrop. Catal. Test. Verit.

Yet all this right was not sufficient for Charlemagne, Charles is envied. nor did he enjoy the Empire without contradiction. For he was forced to overcome the envy of this assumed Title with great sums of money; Especially the Emperour of Constantinople envyed it: but Charlemagne by his magnanimity prevailed against their contumacy, wherein he excelled the Greeks: and he sent many Ambassadours unto them: especially unto Irene, not only to treat for Peace, but about her marriage, that thereby he might the better confirm his Title: But before his Ambassadours came the second time to Constantinople (Irene being sick) the People had Crowned Nicephorus on the first of November Anno Christi 802.

Yet did Nicephorus renew the League with Charlemagne, which Irene had before made with him: but (as Sigonius saith) with express condition, that Venice should be free betwixt the two Empires. In the mean time Nicephorus was molested by the Sarazins, Zonas. and was forced to agree with them upon hard conditions: He was also molested by the Bulgarians, over whom he obtained one great Victory; but when he refused all conditions of Peace, they assembled together again to fight for their Lives and Land, in which Battel they overthrew,Nicephorus is slain. and killed Nicephorus, and his Son Stauracius was wounded in the fight, and fled to Adrianople, where he was afterward declared Emperour. But after three Months Michael Rangabis, his Brother in Law, shut him up in a Monastery. Then were mutual Ambassadours sent between the two Emperours, and a perpetual Peace was concluded betwixt them.

Charles the Great was Crowned Emperour in the thirty third year of his Raign, upon the the 25th of December, and in the fifty eighth year of his Age. He fought many Battels and was always victorious. He had (as was said before) Wars with the Heathenish Saxons, which, by times, lasted thirty years:The Saxons oft rebell. He oft-times overcame them, and granted them liberty, upon condition that they would imbrace the Christian Faith; but upon every opportunity their Duke Wedekin, shaken off both Loyalty, and Christianity. At several times when Charlemagne had obtained a Victory, his manner was to erect a new Bishoprick:Charles his Prudence. Crantz. in Saxon. Bishopricks erected. So that he erected seven Bishopricks in that province, to which he annexed Princely Power, knowing well, that such fierce People might sooner be tamed by Religion then by Armes. The places where these were erected, were, Breme, Verda, Minda, Paterborne, Osnabourg, Hildesem, and Halberstad. But though he gave the Bishops power of Governing, yet the Nobles did not altogether loose the power of administring in Publick affairs. At last, because the Saxons revolted again, he removed ten thousand of them, with their Wives and Children, into Brabant, and Flanders, and sent some French to inhabit their rooms.

Charlemagne lived fifteen years after that he had united the Roman Empire to the French Monarchy; yet not without many troubles. For Grimoald, Duke of Beneventum sought to disturb Italy in the behalf of the Lombards: Troubles is Italy. but Charles prevented it betimes, imploying against him his Son Pepin, a worthy and valiant Prince: and Grimoald being vanquished, [Page] was entreated with all mildness, and being restored to his Estate, he became afterwards a very affectionate, and obedient Servant to Charlemagne, who was a prudent Conquerour, that knew as well how to use, as how to get a Victory.

After this it followed,War with the Venetians. that for some attempts made by the Venetians against the Empire of Charlemagne, in the behalf of the Emperour of Constantinople: or (as others say) upon the false information of Fortunatus, Patriarch of Grado, that Charlemagne commanded his Son Pepin, King of Italy, to make Wars against them: which he acordingly began with great resolution, and took the Cities and Fortresses which the Venetians held within the main land, and at length besieged the City of Venice it self, both by Sea and by Land, to the relief whereof the Greek Emperour sent a Fleet: about which Authors agree not; for some say that Pepin wholly took Venice: Others say, that he only took some Islands thereof, and that the place wich is called Rioalte defended it self: How ever it was, this War continued long, Obeliers, and Becur, two great Personages, being the chief Commanders for the Venetians. At last Peace was concluded betwix them, and the Venetians had liberty to live after their own Laws and customs, and the Venetians won great reputation for being able to defend themselves against so potent and victorious an Enemy. Charlemagne would have the Country which he had conquered from the Lombards, to be called Lombardy, that by retaining their Name, he might somewhat sweeten their servile condition, in the ruin of their estate.

But now Charlemagne, Charles makes his Will. finding himself old and broken, and his Children Valiant, Wise, and Obedient, he resolved to make his last Will and Testament, wherein he divided his Kingdoms between his three legitimate Sons, to wit, Charles his Eldest, Pepin and Lewis: In which he made his eldest Son Charles King of the greatest, and best parts of France, and Germany. To Pepin he gave the Kingdom of Italy, and Bavaria, with some other Provinces. And to Lewis he bequeathed Provence, and that part of France which bordereth upon Spain, together with some other Provinces. But all succeeded after another manner than he attended, God the Soveraign disposer of Kingdoms, having decreed otherwise to dispose thereof. He endeavoured also to reduce all his Kingdoms under one Law, making choise of the Roman Laws above all others, both for the dignity of the Empire, and because they seemed to him, to be most just and equal: But the French, being loath to alter any thing in their customary Laws,He gives Laws to his Subjects. desired, and obtained of him that they might be governed by the same: So as Gaul, Narbonne, (which comprehends Daulphine, Languedoc, and Provence) do use the written Laws (as the ancient Provinces of the Romans) and the rest of France observe their customary Laws.

It afterwards happened that a great Fleet of Infidels which inhabited Spain, with the aid, and assistance of some Africans, invaded the Isles of Sardinia, and Corsica in the Mediterranean Sea, for the defence whereof, the Emperour Charlemagne sent commandment to his Son Pepin that he should send thither against them a valiant Captain whose name was Bucaredus, who took so good order as that he drove those Infidels out of those Islands,Infidels beaten. and slew five thousand of them in one Battel. And with no less good success, the Emperour undertook another War against the Dukes of the Bohemians, and Polanders, And the Bohemians and Polanders. which is a part of the ancient Sarmatia, who infested the Countries under his Dominions, against whom he sent his Son Charles with great Forces of Burgonians, Saxons, and Germans: And this young Charles, imitating his Father, Warred valiantly, and with discretion against them, and coming first to a Battel with the Bohemians, led by Leo their Duke, he overcame them, as he did also at other times, and at last he slew Leo [Page] their Duke; the like success he had also against the Polanders, so as at length they all became his Fathers Subjects. And for these Victories of Charlemagne he was so much feared, and renowned through the World, that a great King of the East; and Amurath, the greatest of all the Mahomatists, sent their Ambassadours, with rich Presents unto him, desiring peace, and friendship: and the like did all Christian Kings.

Charlemagne thus living with honour,His War with the King of Denmark. and in tranquillity, Godfrey King of Denmark (which was a dependance of the Realm of Germany, and part of Charles his Portion, as was hinted before) made War against him. This Godfrey was a mighty Prince, and commanded over a large mighty Dominion, and with great Forces came into Friesland and Saxony, where he did great harm. Against whom, the Emperour addressing himself (though he was now Old, and unweildy) speedily departed with a great Army: but by the way news was brought him that King Godfrey was dead, and that his Army was returned into their own Country. And upon the same day news came also,Pepin dies. that his Son Pepin (who had raigned in Italy in great prosperity) was dead in the City of Millan, which was an occasion of great grief to the old Emperour. Then did he return to the City of Aken, or Aix, unto which place Ambassadours came to him from Hermigius, who succeeded Godfrey in the Kingdom of Denmark, humbly desiring Peace. The like came also to him from the Emperour of Constantinople, and others also from Ambulat, a King of the Moors, who raigned in a great part of Spain; to all which he returned gracious answers, and granted their Petitions: withall, giving hearty thanks to God for that he was generally so well esteemed of. But after this Sunshine, another storm returned, as the Clouds return after the rain: And Charles. For it pleased God to take away another of his Sons, called Charles, who lay on the borders of Germany for the defence thereof; so as now his whole hope rested in his third Son Lewis.

Thus man purposeth and God disposeth. Thus the Sons die before the Father. Thus we see the greatest cannot free themselves from the common calamities of mankind. Thus both great Kings, and great Kingdoms have their Period.

Crowns have their compass; Kingdoms have their date:

Fortune her frowns: Felicity her fate.

Thus Charlemagne lost his Children, and his great Empire her best support under God: For these two Princes (like Stars of the greater magnitude) did shine bright by inheriting their Fathers virtues, and Valour, leaving behind them Lewis their Brother, with large Territories, and few vertues, to Govern so great an Estate.

After the Death of these two great Princes,New enemies rise up. many enemies rose up against old Charlemagne, who seemed (as it were) to have lost his two Arms: as the Sarazins in Spain, the Sclavonians, and the Normans in the Northern Regions: But he vanquished them all, and brought them into his obedience and subjection, old and broken as he was.

Charlemagne all his Life time held the Church in great reverence,His love to the Church. and had imployed his Authority to beautify it, and bountifully bestowed his Treasure to enrich it: But this great plenty, joyned with so long and happy a Peace, made the Church-men to live losely.

Charlemagne (being himself well instructed in Religion) knowing of what great importance it was, to have such as should instruct others to be sound in the Faith,He called five Councels. and holy and exemplary in their lives, he at sundry times, called five Councels in sundry Places of his Dominions (For as yet the Popes [Page] had not challenged that power to belong to them) for the Reformation and good Government of the Church: As at Mentz: at Rheimes: at Tours: at Chaalons: and at Arles: and by the advise of these Ecclesiastical Assemblies, he made and published many Orders for the good of the Church which were gathered together in a Book called, Capitula Caroli Magni. A worthy President for Princes who seek true Honour by virtue, whereof the care of Piety is the chiefest Foundation.

In the Preface to this Book,His Ecclesiastical Constitutions. he thus saith, that he had appointed these constitutions with the Advice of his Presbyters, and Counsellers: and that herein he had followed the Example of King Josias, who endeavoured to bring the Kingdom which God had given him, to the worship of the true God: Some of his constitutions are these. He commanded to look to, and to try the learning and conversation of such as were admitted into the Ministry. He forbad private Masses, Also the confusion of Diocesses, requiring that no Bishop should meddle in anothers Diocess. He forbad that any Books should be read publickly, but such as were approved by the Councel of Calcedon. He forbad the worshipping of Saints. He commanded Bishops not to suffer Presbyters to teach the People other things then what are contained in, or according to the holy Scriptures. And lib. 2. ch. 3. he saith, Although the Authority of the Ecclesiastical Ministry may seem to stand in our Person: Yet by the Authority of God, and Ordinance of man, its known to be so divided, that every one of you, in his own place and order, hath his own power and Ministry: Hence its manifest that I should admonish you all; and you all should further and help us. He admonished Bishops especially, to teach both by Life and Doctrine, both by themselves, and the Ministers that were under them, as they would answer the contrary in their accounts at the Great Day. He Ordained that the Bishop of the first See should not be called the Prince of Priests, or the highest Priest, or have any such Title, but only should be called, The Bishop of the first See. That none can lay another foundation, then that which is laid, which is Christ Jesus, and that they which lay Christ for their foundation, its to be hoped that they will be careful to shew their Faith, by bringing forth good Works.

He held also a great Councel in the City of Frankfort, A Counsel at Frankfort. of the Bishops of France, Germany, and Italy, which himself honoured with his own presence; where, by general consent the false Synod of the Greeks (they are the words of the Original) untruly called the seventh, was condemned, and rejected by all the Bishops, who subscribed to the condemnation of it. This was that Counsel (spoken of before) called by Irene at Nice, wherein the bringing of Images into Churches for devotion, was established. In a Word, if Charlemagnes medling with Italy, and his advancing the Pope, for confirming that which he had taken, could be excused, he was unto all Princes a pattern of magnificence, of Zeal in Religion, of learning, eloquence, temperance, prudence, moderation, &c. Alcwin saith of him, Charles was a Catholick in his Faith, a King in power, a High Priest in preaching, a Judg in his equity, a Philosopher in liberal Studies, famous in manners,His Temperance. and excellent in all honesty. He was so temperate, that notwithstanding his great revenues, he was never served at the Table with above four Dishes at a Meal, and those of such Meat as best pleased his taste, which he used to the same end for which God created them, which was for sustenance, and to support his Body, not for shew and pomp.

His ordinary exercise was hunting when he was at leisure,His Exercises. in time of War: and in times of Peace, he attended to such as read Histories to him, and sometimes he heard Musick, with which he was much delighted, having good skill therein himself: He was very charitable, and a bountiful Alms-giver, [Page] and so careful to provide for the poor Cristians,His Charity. that in Syria, in Africa, and in Aegypt, and in other Provinces of the Infidels, where Christians lived, he found means to have Almes-houses and Hospitals erected, and endowed for those thar were Poor.

But there fell out a new accident, which drew out Great Charles again to Arms in his old Age,His last Wars. and that was this; Alphonso, King of Navarr, surnamed the Chast, by reason of his singular, and signal temperance in that kind, did inform, and advertise him, that there was now a very fit opportunity, and means offered for him utterly to subdue the Sarazins in Spain. Charlemagne (who infinitely desired to finish this work, which he had so often attempted with no great success) gave ear to the information and advice, whereupon he raises an Army, and marches into Spain, relying on the Spaniards favour, and assistance, they being Christians. Indeed Alphonso meant plainly, and sincerely, but so did not his Courtiers, and Nobles, nor Associates, who feared Charles his forces no less than they did the Sarazins, and if Charles prevailed, the most confident of Alphonso's Servants and Officers doubted to be dispossessed of their places, and Governments by a new Master: and therefore they laboured to cross Alphonso, and to countermand Charles; but the Lot was cast, his Army was in the Field, and he was resolved to pass on: But when he was entred into Spain, he encountered with so many difficulties, that being discouraged, he returned back into France, and so concluded, and put a period to all his Warly enterprises; embracing again the care of the Church, and of Religion, as a fit subject for the remainder of his days.

Charlemagne was threescore and eight years old when he left the Wars,His preparation for Death. after which he spent three whole years in his study, to prepare himself for Death, in which time, he read much in the Bible, and read over also St. Augustines Works, whom he loved and preferred before all the other Doctors of the Church: He resided also at Paris, that he might have opportunity of conferring with learned men. There he erected a goodly University, which he furnished with as learned men as those times could afford, and endowed it with great priviledges: For he had an exceeding great care to make it a Nurcery for the holy Ministry, that from thence the Church might be supplied with able Teachers, whence also grew so many Colleges of Cannons, with sufficient revenues annexed thereunto.

Thus Charlemagne spent three years happily in the only care of his Soul, leaving an illustrious example to all Princes, to moderate, and ennoble their greatness with Piety, and so to enjoy their Temporal estates, as in the mean time not to neglect their eternal concernments, and to think of their departure out of this Life in time.

Foreseeing his Death (whereunto he prepared himself by these exercises) he made his last Will and Testament, He makes his Will. leaving his Son Lewis the sole Heir unto his great Kingdoms, and bequeathed to the Church much Treasure. But all things and Persons in this World have an end: His Testament was but the Harbinger to his Death; for presently after, he was taken with a pain in his side, or Plurisie, and lay sick but eight days, and so yielded up his Spirit unto God that gave it, Anno Christi 814. and of his Age seventy one, and of his Reign forty seven, including fifteen years of his Empire: His Body was interred in a sumptuous Church which he had caused to be built in the City of Aquisgrave, or Aix la Capelle, where he was born, and his memory was honoured with a goodly Epitaph.

He was one of the greatest Princes that ever lived:His virtues. His virtues are a pattern to other Monarchs, and his great successes the subject of their wishes. The greatness of his Monarchy indeed was admirable:His large Dominions. For he quietly enjoyed all France, Germany, the greatest part of Hungary, all Italy; [Page] and a good part of Spain. At the time of his Death he was in peace with the other Kings of Spain, as also with the Kings of England, Denmark, Bulgary, with the Emperour Leo of Constantinople, and with all the Princes of that time.

This Noble Prince was endued with so many excellent Virtues,His Character. that we read of very few in antient Histories that excelled him, so that he may be justly compared with the best of them: For in Martial Discipline, in Valour, in Dexterity, in Feats of Arms, there are none that exceeded him. He obtained as many Victories, fought as many Battels, and subdued as many fierce and Warlike Nations, as any one we read of, and that both before, and after that he was Emperour. He was tall of Stature, very well proportioned in all his members, passing strong: of a fair and grave countenance, valiant, mild, merciful, a lover of Justice, liberal, very affable, pleasant, well read in History, a great Friend of Arts and Sciences, and sufficiently seen into them, and a man who above all, loved and rewarded Learned men. He was very charitable in his Kingdoms, yea, in his very Court, he harboured and relieved many Strangers and Pilgrims. In matters of Faith and Religion he was very zealous;His Zeal. and most of the Wars which he made, were to propagate and enlarge the Christian Faith.

He (being mis-led by the darkness of the times wherein he lived) superstitiously honoured and obeyed the Church of Rome, and the Pope that was Bishop thereof, together with other Bishops and Prelates, commanding his Subjects also to do the like. He was also very devout, and spent much of his time in Prayer, Hearing and Reading. In his Diet he was very temperate, and a great enemy to riot and excess; and though he was Rich and Mighty, yet fed he his Body with what was necessary and wholesome, not rare, costly, and strange.

And yet his Virtues were not without their blemishes (as the greatest commonly are not without some notable Vices) For in his younger dayes he was much given to Women,His blemishes. adding Concubines to his lawful Wives, by whom he had divers children: but this was in the time of his Youth: For afterwards he contented himself with his Wife, and for a remedy of this imperfection, though he was three or four times a Widower, yet he ever married again the Daughter of some great Prince or other.

To conclude all, he was an excellent Emperour, that loved and feared God, and died when he was very Old, and full of Honour, leaving Lewis (the weakest of his Sons) the sole heir of his great Empire, but not of his Virtues: So that this great building soon declined in his posterity.

He had engraven upon his Sword, Pro Deo & Religione, For God and Religion: He used to set his Crown upon the Bible, as our Canutus sometime put his Crown upon the Rood, both of them thereby intimating, that as all honour was due to God, so true Religion was the best Basis of Government, and that Piety was the best Policy.

The Epitaph which I spake of, was this;

Sub hoc conditorio situm est Corpus Caroli Magni,His Epitaph. atque Orthodoxi Imperatorisqui Regnum Francorum nobiliter ampliavit, & per annos Quadraginta septem foeliciter tenuit. Decessit Septuagenarius, Anno Domini 814. Indicti, one 7. Quinto Calend. Febr.

Under this Tomb lieth the Body of Charles the Great,The time of his Death. and Catholick Emperour, who most Nobly enlarged the Kingdom of the French, and most happily ruled it for the space of forty and seven years. He died in the seventy and one year of his Age; In the year of our Lord eight hundred and fourteen, the seventh Indiction, on the fifth Calend of February.

[Page] He had five Wives: the first was called Galcena, His Wives and Children. the Daughter of the King of Galistria, by whom he had no Children. The second was Theodora, the Sister, (or as others say) the Daughter of Didier King of Lombardy; whom he kept not long, but repudiated her for sundry reasons. The third was Hildebranda, Daughter of the Duke of Suevia, whom he loved exceedingly, and had by her three Sons, viz. Charles his Eldest, whom he made King of the greatest, and best part of France and Germany: Pepin his Second, whom he made King of Italy, Bavaria, &c. Lewis his Youngest, to whom he left the Empire intire, his Brothers being both dead in their Fathers Life time. This Lewis was sirnamed Debonaire, or the Courteous. He had also three Daughters; the Eldest was called Rothruda; the Second Birtha; and the Youngest Giselia, who would never marry. His fourth Wife he had out of Germany, called Fastrada: And his fifth and last was also a German Lady, called Luithgranda, of the Suevian Race, by whom he had no Children.

He shewed his love to Religion,His Devotion. by having one, during his Meal-times, that either read to him some part of the Holy Scriptures, or else some part of Saint Augustines Books, especially that De Civitate Dei: or some History. He was also a great Friend to Learning, and therefore erected three Universities: One was at Padua in Italy; another was at Boulognia; the third was that in Paris, whereunto he was excited by our Countryman Alcwin, who was his Tutor.

His Sons he caused to be trained up in the Study of Liberal Arts;His care of his Children. and his Daughters to learn to sow, and practice good Huswifry. He alwayes wore a short Sword at his Girdle, in the Pummel whereof was engraven his Coat of Arms, with which he sealed all his Laws, &c. And used to say, Behold the Sword which shall defend my Laws, and that shall be drawn and imployed against those that break them. In the year eight hundred and four, the King of the Scots entred into the first League which was between the two Kingdoms of France and Scotland, His League with Scotland. which was confirmed by succeeding Kings, which occasioned one of them to add unto their Coat of Arms a double streak of Gules, with Flower de Lisses round their Escutcheon, to shew that their Alliance with France conduced much to the support of their Kingdom.

FINIS.

ERRATA in the Lives of the Magni.

[Page]

PAge 3. Line 43. read Daniel for David. p. 17. l. 6. r. being for before. p. 57. l. 50. r. unto for and. p. 77. l. 7. put out and had them very carefully. p. 111. l. 13. r. proving for provoking. p. 119. l. the last, r. now for not. p. 174 l. 32. r. of for Oar. p. 220. l. 44, 45. r. a certain sum of money to be divided among them. p. 242. l. 31. r. of for and. p. 247. l. 18. put in from. p. 282. l. 15. r. Chaos for Chios. l. 34. r. prosecuted for persicuted. p. 284. l. 2. r. affections for affects.

Information about this book

Title statement

The lives & deaths of most of those eminent persons who by their virtue and valour obtained the sirnames of Magni,or the Great whereof divers of them give much light to the understanding of the prophecies in Esay, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, concerning the three first monarchies : and to other Scriptures concerning the captivity, and restauration of the Jews / by Samuel Clark ...

Clarke, Samuel, 1599-1682.

Edition statement

1675

Publication

Publisher

Text Creation Partnership,

Place of publication

Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) :

Date

2005-12 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1).

ID [DLPS]

A33329

ID [STC]

Wing C4537

ID [STC]

ESTC R36025

ID [EEBO-CITATION]

15586868

ID [OCLC]

ocm 15586868

ID [VID]

103996

Availability

This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal. The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission.

Series

Early English books online.

Notes

(EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A33329)

Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 103996)

Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 1184:94)

Source

— The lives & deaths of most of those eminent persons who by their virtue and valour obtained the sirnames of Magni,or the Great whereof divers of them give much light to the understanding of the prophecies in Esay, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, concerning the three first monarchies : and to other Scriptures concerning the captivity, and restauration of the Jews / by Samuel Clark ..., Clarke, Samuel, 1599-1682.. The second edition, corrected and enlarged..

Extent

[2], 303, [1] p., [1] leaf of plates : ports.

Printed by J.R. for W.B. and are to be sold by Tho. Sawbridge ... and by W. Birch ...,. London :: 1675.. (Errata: p. [1] at end.) (Reproduction of original in the Huntington Library.) (Includes bibliographical references.)

Creation

Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford.

Editorial practices

EEBO-TCP is a partnership between the Universities of Michigan and Oxford and the publisher ProQuest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by ProQuest via their Early English Books Online (EEBO) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). The general aim of EEBO-TCP is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic English-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in EEBO.

EEBO-TCP aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the Text Encoding Initiative (http://www.tei-c.org).

The EEBO-TCP project was divided into two phases. The 25,363 texts created during Phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 January 2015. Anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source.

Users should be aware of the process of creating the TCP texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data.

Text selection was based on the New Cambridge Bibliography of English Literature (NCBEL). If an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in NCBEL, then their works are eligible for inclusion. Selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. In general, first editions of a works in English were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably Latin and Welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so.

Image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor.

The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines.

Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements).

Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site.