A brief history of Moscovia and of other less-known countries lying eastward of Russia as far as Cathay, gather'd from the writings of several eye-witnesses / by John Milton.

MOSCOVIA: OR, Relations of Moscovia, As far as hath been discover'd by English VOYAGES; Gather'd from the Writings of several Eye-witnesses: And of other less-known Countries lying Eastward of Russia as far as Cathay, lately discovered at several times by Russians.

CHAP. I. A brief Description.

THE Empire of Moscovia, or as others call it, Russia, is bounded on the North with Lapland and the Ocean; Southward by the Crim Tartar; on the West by Lituania, Livonia and Poland; on the East by the River Ob, or Oby, and the Nagayan Tartars on the Volga, as far as Astracan.

The north parts of this Country are so barren,The North and East, Hack. 251. that the Inhabitants fetch their Corn a 1000 miles, and so cold in Winter that the very Sap of their Wood-fewel burning on the fire, freezes at the Brands end where it drops. The Mariners which were left a shipboard in the first English Voyage thither, Hack. vo. 1. in going up onely from their Cabins to the Hatches,248. had their breath so congeal'd by the cold, that they fell down as it were stifl'd. The Bay of Saint Nicholas, Saint Nicholas, where they first put in, lyeth in 64 degrees;Hack. 376. call'd so from the Abby there built of Wood; wherein are 20 Monks; unlearned, as then they found them, and great Drunkards: their Church is fair, full of Images, and Tapers. There are besides but 6 Houses, whereof one built by the English. In the Bay over against the Abby is Rose Island, Rose Island▪ full of damask and red Roses,Hack. 365. Violets, and wild Rosemary; the Isle is in circuit 7 or 8 miles: about the midst of May the snow there is clear'd, having two months been melting; then the ground in 14 daies is dry, and Grass knee-deep within a month: after September Frost returns, and Snow a yard high: it hath a House built by the English near to a fresh fair Spring North-east of the Abby on the other side of Duina is the Castle of Archangel; Archangel. where the English have another House. The River Duina Duina. beginning about 700 miles within the Country, having first receiv'd Pinega Pinega. falls here into the Sea, very large and swift, but shallow. It runneth pleasantly between Hills on either side; beset like a Wilderness with high Firre, and other Trees: their Boats of Timber without any Iron in them, are either to sail, or to be drawn up with Ropes against the stream.

North-east beyond Archangel standeth Lampas, Lampas, 284. where twice a year is kept a great Fair of Russes, Tartars and Samoeds: and to the Land-ward Mezen, and Slobotca two Towns of traffick between the River Pechora, or Petzora, and Duina; To Seaward lies the Cape of Candinos, Candinos, Colgoieve, Pur. par. 3. 533. and the Island of Colgoieve about 30 leagues from the Bar of Pechora in 69 degrees.

The River Pechora or Petzora holding his course through Siberia, how far, the Russians thereabouts know not, runneth into the Sea at 72. mouths, full of Ice: abounding with Swans, Ducks, Geese and Partridge, which they take in Iuly, sell the Feathers, and salt the Bodies for Winter Provision. On this River spreading to a Lake stands the Town of Pustozera Pustozera, ibid. Purc. in 68 degrees, having some 80, or 100 Houses, where certain Merchants of Hull winter'd in the year 1611. The Town Pechora small and poor hath 3 Churches. They traded there up the River 4 daies journey to Oustzilma a small Town of 60 Houses.Purc. 549. The Russians that have travail'd, say that this River springs out of the Mountains of Iougoria and runs through Permia. Not far from the Mouth thereof are the Straits of Vaigats, of which hereafter: more eastward is the Point of Naramzy, 545. 551. and next to that, the River Ob. Beyond which, the Muscovites have extended lately their dominion. Touching the Riphaean Riphaean Mountains. Mountains whence Tanais was anciently thought to spring, our men could hear nothing; but rather that the whole Country is Champain, and in the northmost part huge and desert Woods of Firre, abounding with Black Wolves, Bears, Buffs, and another Beast call'd Rossomakka, whose Female bringeth forth by passing through some narrow place, as between two Stakes; and so presseth her Womb to a disburthening. Travailing southward they found the Country more pleasant, From Saint Nicholas to Mosco. fair and better inhabited, Corn, Pasture, Meadows and huge Woods.Arkania, 546, 542. Arkania (if it be not the same with Archangel) is a place of English trade, from whence a days journey distant, but from Saint Nicholas a 100 versts, Colmogro Colmogro, stands on the Duina: Hack. 376. a great Town not wall'd, but scatter'd. The English have here Lands of their own, given them by the Emperour, and fair Houses; not far beyond, Pinega running between Rocks of Alabaster and great Woods, meets with Duina. From Colmogro to Vstiug Vstiug. are 500 versts or little miles, an ancient City upon the Confluence of Iuga, Hack. 312. and Sucana into Duina which there first receives his name. Thence continuing by water to Wologda; Wologda. a great City so nam'd of the River which passes through the midst; it hath a Castle wall'd about with Brick and Stone, and many wooden Churches, two for every Parish, the one in Winter to be heated, the other us'd in Summer; this is a Town of much Traffick a 1000 miles from Saint Nicholas. All this way by water no lodging is to be had but under open Sky by the River side, and other provision onely what they bring with them. From Wologda by Sled they go to Yeraslave Yeraslave. on the Volga, whose breadth is there at least a mile over; and thence runs 2700 versts to the Caspian Sea,Hack. 377. having his head Spring out of Bealozera, which is a Lake,248. amidst whereof is built a strong Tower wherein the Kings of Moscovy reserve their Treasure in time of War. From this Town to Rostove, then to Pereslave a great Town situate on a fair Lake; thence to Mosco.

Between Yeraslave and Mosco which is 200 miles, the Country is so fertile, so populous and full of Villages, that in a forenoon 7 or 800 Sleds are usually seen coming with Salt Fish,251. or laden back with Corn.335.

Mosco Mosco. the chief City, lying in 55 degrees, distant from Saint Nicholas 1500 miles, is reputed to be greater than London with the Suburbs,313. but rudely built, their Houses and Churches most of Timber, few of Stone, their Streets unpav'd; it hath a fair Castle four-square, upon a Hill, two miles about, with Brick Walls very high, and some say 18 foot thick, 16 Gates, and as many Bulwarks; in the Castle are kept the chief Markets, and in Winter on the River being then firm Ice. This River Moscua on the south-west side encloses the Castle, wherein are nine fair Churches with round gilded Towers, and the Emperour's Palace; which neither within, nor without is equal for state to the King's Houses in England but rather like our Buildings of old fashion with small Windows, some of Glass, some with Latices, or Iron Bars.

They who travail from Mosco to the Caspian, South-east. go by Water down the Moscua to the River Occa; Hack. 325. then by certain Castles to Rezan, a famous City now ruinate; the 10th day to Nysnovogrod where Occa falls into Volga, which the Tartars call Edel. From thence the 11th day to Cazan a Tartan City of great wealth heretofore, now under the Russian; wall'd at first with Timber and Earth, but since by the Emperour Vasiliwich with free Stone. From Cazan to the River Cama falling into Volga from the Province of Permia, the People dwelling on the left side are Gentiles, and live in Woods without Houses:334. beyond them to Astracan, Tartars of Mangat, and Nagay; on the right side those of Crimme. From Mosco to Astracan is about 600 leagues. The Town is situate in an Island on a Hill-side wall'd with Earth, but the Castle with Earth and Timber; the Houses except that of the Governour's, and some few others, poor and simple; the Ground utterly barren, and without Wood: they live there on Fish, and Sturgeon especially; which hanging up to dry in the Streets and Houses brings whole swarms of Flies, and infection to the Aire, and oft great Pestilence. This Island in length 12 leagues, 3 in breadth is the Russian limit toward the Caspian, which he keeps with a strong Garrison; being 20 leagues from that Sea into which Volga falls at 70 mouths. From Saint Nicholas, or from Mosco to the Caspian they pass in 46 daies and nights, most part by Water.

West-wardWest. from Saint Nicholas 1200 miles,Novogrod. 365. is the City Novogrod 58 degrees, the greatest Mart-town of all this Dominion, and in bigness not inferior to Mosco. The way thither is through the western bottom of Saint Nicholas Bay, and so along the Shoar full of dangerous Rocks to the Monastery Solofky, wherein are at least 200 Monks; the People thereabout in a manner Savages, yet Tenants to those Monks. Thence to the dangerous River Owiga, wherein are Waterfalls as steep as from a Mountain, and by the violence of their descent kept from freezing; so that the Boats are to be carried there a mile over land: which the Tenants of that Abby did by command, and were guides to the Merchants without taking any reward. Thence to the Town Povensa standing within a mile of the famous Lake Onega 320 miles long; and in some places 70, at narrowest 25 broad, and of great depth. Thence by some Monasteries to the River Swire; then into the Lake Ladiscay much longer than Onega: after which into the River Volhusky which through the midst of Novogrod runs into this Lake, and this Lake into the Baltick sound by Narv and Revel. Their other Cities toward the western bound are Plesco, Smolensko on Vobsco.

The Emperour exerciseth absolute power:Governm. if any man die without male issue,Hac. 240. his Land returns to the Emperour. Any rich man who through age, or other impotence is unable to serve the Publick, being inform'd of, is turn'd out of his Estate, and forc'd with his Family to live on a small Pension, while some other more deserving, is by the Duke's authority put into possession. The manner of informing the Duke is thus. Your Grace, saith one, hath such a Subject, abounding with Riches, but for service of the State unmeet, and you have others poor and in want, but well able to doe their Country good service. Immediately the Duke sends forth to enquire, and calling the Rich man before him, Friend, saith he, you have too much Living, and are unserviceable to your Prince; less will serve you, and the rest maintain others who deserve more. The man thus call'd to impart his Wealth, repines not, but humbly answers, that all he hath is God's, and the Duke's: as if he made restitution of what more justly was anothers, than parted with his own. Every Gentleman hath rule and justice over his own Tenants: if the Tenants of two Gentlemen agree not, they seek to compose it, if they cannot, each brings his Tenant before the high Judge of that Country. They have no Lawyers, but every man pleads his own Cause, or else by Bill or Answer in writing delivers it with his own hands to the Duke: yet Justice by corruption of inferiour Officers is much perverted. Where other proof is wanting, they may try the matter by personal combat, or by champion. If a Debtor be poor, he becomes bondman to the Duke, who lets out his labour till it pay the dept; till then he remains in bondage:Hac. 309. another tryal they have by lots.

The RevenuesRevenues. of the Emperour are what he list, and what his Subjects are able; and he omits not the coursest means to raise them: for in every good Town there is a drunken Tavern, call'd a Cursemay, which the Emperour either lets out to farm,Hac. 314. or bestowes on some Duke, or Gentleman in reward of his Service; who for that time is Lord of the whole Town, robbing and spoiling at his pleasure; till being well enricht, he is sent at his own charge to the Wars, and there squeez'd of his ill got wealth; by which means the waging of war is to the Emperour little or nothing chargeable.

The Russian armeth not less in time of war than 300 thousand men;Forces. half of whom he takes with him into the Field,Hac. 1239. 250. the rest bestows in Garrisons on the Borders. He presseth no Husbandman or Merchant, but the Youth of the Realm. He useth no Foot, but such as are Pioners, or Gunners, of both which sort 30 thousand. The rest being Horsemen, are all Archers, and ride with a short Stirrup after the Turkish. Their Armour is a Coat of Plate, and a Skull on their Heads. Some of their Coats are cover'd with Velvet, or cloth of Gold; for they desire to be gorgeous in Arms, but the Duke himself above measure: his Pavilion cover'd with cloth of Gold, or Silver, set with pretious Stones. They use little Drums at the Saddle bow instead of Spurs; for at sound thereof the Horses run more swiftly.

They fight without order;Hac. 314. 250. nor willingly give battail but by stealth or ambush;250. of cold and hard Diet marvelously patient; for when the Ground is cover'd with Snow froz'n a yard thick, the common Souldier will lie in the Field two months together without Tent, or covering over head; onely hangs up his Mantle against that part from whence the Weather drives, and kindling a little fire, lies him down before it, with his Back under the Wind: his Drink, the cold Stream mingl'd with Oat-meal, and the same all his Food: his Horse fed with Green Wood and Bark, stands all this while in the open Field, yet does his service. The Emperour gives no pay at all, but to Strangers; yet repaies good deserts in war with certain Lands during life; and they who oftenest are sent to the wars, think themselves most favour'd,Hac. 316. though serving without Wages. On the 12th of December yearly the Emperour rides into the Field which is without the City, with all his Nobility on Jennets and Turky Horses in great state: before him 5000 Harquebusiers, who shoot at a bank of Ice till they beat it down, the Ordnance, which they have very fair of all sorts, they plant against two wooden Houses fill'd with earth at least 30 foot thick, and beginning with the smallest, shoot them all off thrice over, having beat those two Houses flat. Above the rest 6 great Cannon they have, whose Bullet is a yard high, so that a man may see it flying; then out of Morter-pieces they shoot wild-fire into the Aire. Thus the Emperour having seen what his Gunners can doe, returns home in the same order.

They follow the Greek Church,Religion. but with excess of Superstitions;Hac. 253. their Service is in the Russian Tongue. They hold the Ten Commandments not to concern them, saying that God gave them under the Law, which Christ by his death on the Cross hath abrogated: the Eucharist they receive in both kinds; they observe 4 Lents,242. 321. have Service in their Churches daily, from two hours before dawn to Evening; yet for Whordom, Drunkenness and Extortion none worse than the Clergy.

They have many great and rich Monasteries,320. where they keep great hospitality. That of Trojetes hath in it 700 Friers, and is wall'd about with Brick very strongly, having many Pieces of Brass Ordnance on the Walls; most of the Lands, Towns and Villages within 40 miles belong to those Monks, who are also as great Merchants as any in the Land. During Easter Holy-daies when two Friends meet they take each other by the hand; one of them saying, the Lord is risen; the other answering,318. it is so of a truth; and then they kiss, whether Men or Women. The Emperour esteemeth the Metropolitan next to God, after our Lady, and Saint Nicholas, as being his spiritual Officer, himself but his temporal.320, 254. But the Muscovites that border on Tartaria are yet Pagans.

When there is love between two,Marriages. the Man among other trifling Gifts,Hac. 322. sends to the Woman a Whip, to signify, if she offend, what the must expect; and it is a Rule among them, that if the Wife be not beaten once a week, she thinks her self not belov'd, and is the worse; yet are they very obedient, and stir not forth, but at some Seasons. Upon utter dislike, the Husband divorces;314. which Liberty no doubt they receiv'd first with their Religion from the Greek Church, and the Imperial Laws.

Their Dead they bury with new Shooes on their Feet,Burial. as to a long Journey;242, 254, 323. and put Letters testimonial in their Hands to Saint Nicholas, or Saint Peter, that this was a Russe of Russes and dy'd in the true Faith; which, as they believe, Saint Peter having read, forthwith admits him into Heaven.

They have no Learning,Manners. nor will suffer to be among them;241, 314. their greatest friendship is in drinking; they are great Talkers, Lyars, Flatterers and Dissemblers. They delight in gross Meats and noysom Fish; their Drink is better, being sundry sorts of Meath; the best made with Juice of a sweet and crimson Berry call'd Maliena, growing also in France; 323. other sorts with Black-cherry, or divers other Berries: another Drink they use in the Spring drawn from the Birch-tree Root, whose Sap after Iune dries up. But there is no People that live so miserably as the Poor of Russia; if they have Straw and Water they make shift to live; for Straw dry'd and stampt in Winter time is their Bread; in Summer Grass and Roots; at all times Bark of Trees is good Meat with them; yet many of them die in the Street for hunger, none relieving, or regarding them.

When they are sent into Foreign Countries,Habit. or that Strangers come thither,239. they are very sumptuous in apparel, else the Duke himself goes but meanly.

In Winter they travailTravailing. onely upon Sleds,314. the Wayes being hard, and smooth with Snow, the Rivers all froz'n: one Horse with a Sled will draw a man 400 miles in 3 daies; in Summer the way is deep, and travailing ill. The Russe of better sort goes not out in Winter, but on his Sled; in Summer on his Horse: in his Sled he sits on a Carpet, or a white Bears Skin; the Sled drawn with a Horse well deckt, with many Fox or Wolve Tayles about his Neck, guided by a Boy on his Back, other Servants riding on the tayle of the Sled.

The Russian Sea breeds a certain BeastBeasts. which they call a Morse;252. who seeks his Food on the Rocks, climing up with help of his Teeth; whereof they make as great account, as we of the Elephant's Tooth.

CHAP. II. Of Samoedia, Siberia, and other Countries north-east subject to the Muscovites.

NOrth-east of Russia lieth Samoedia by the River Ob. This Country was first discover'd by Oneke a Russian; who first trading privately among them in rich Furrs got great Wealth, and the knowledge of their Country; then reveal'd his discovery to Boris Protectour to Pheodor, shewing how beneficial that Country gain'd, would be to the Empire. Who sending Ambassadours among them gallantly attir'd, by fair means won their subjection to the Empire; every Head paying yearly two Skins of richest Sables. Those Messengers travailing also 200 leagues beyond Ob east-ward, made report of pleasant Countries, abounding with Woods and Fountains, and People riding on Elks and Loshes, others drawn on Sleds by Rain-deer, others by Dogs as swift as Deer. The Somoeds that came along with those Messengers returning to Mosco admir'd the stateliness of that City, and were as much admir'd for excellent Shooters, hitting every time the breadth of a penny, as far distant as hardly could be discern'd.

The River Ob is reported by the Russes to be in breadth the sayling of a Summer's day:Purch. part. 3. but full of Islands and Shoals,543, 540. Molgomsay. having neither Woods, nor, till of late, Inhabitants. Out of Ob they turn into the River Tawze. The Russians have here, since the Samoeds yielded them subjection, two Governours with 3 or 400 Gunners; have built Villages and some small Castles; all which Place they call Mongozey, or Molgomzay, Further up-land they have also built other Cities of Wood,524. consisting chiefly of Poles, Tartars and Russes, fugitive or condemned men; as Vergateria, Siber, whence the whole Country is nam'd,526. Tinna, thence Tobolsca on this side Ob, on the Rivers Irtis, and Tobol, chief Seat of the Russian Governour; above that, Zergolta in an Island of Ob, where they have a Custom house, beyond that on the other side Ob, Narim, and Tooina now a great City.526, 527. Certain Churches also are erected in those Parts; but no man forc'd to Religion; beyond Narim eastward on the River Telta is built the Castle of Comgoscoi, and all this Plantation began since the year 1590. with many other Towns like these. And these are the Countries from whence come all the Sables and rich Furrs.

The Samoeds have no Towns,Manners of the Samoeds. or certain place of abode,522, 555. but up and down where they find Moss for their Deer; they live in companies peaceably, and are govern'd by some of the Ancientest amongst them, but are Idolaters. They shoot wondrous cunningly; their Arrow heads are sharpned Stones, or Fishbones, which latter serve them also for Needles, their Thread being the Sinews of certain small Beasts, wherewith they sowe the Furrs which cloath them; the furry side in Summer outward, in Winter inward. They have many Wives, and their Daughters they sell to him who bids most; which, if they be not lik't, are turn'd back to their Friends, the Husband allowing onely to the Father what the marriage Feast stood him in. Wives are brought to bed there by their Husbands, and the next day go about as before. They till not the Ground; but live on the Flesh of those Wild Beasts which they hunt. They are the onely Guides to such as travaile Iougoria, Siberia, 548. or any of those north-east parts in Winter; being drawn on Sleds with Bucks, riding post day and night, if it be Moon-light; and lodge on the Snow under Tents of Deer Skins in whatever place they find enough of white Moss to feed their Sled Staggs, turning them loose to dig it up themselves out of the deep Snow: another Samoede stepping to the next Wood, brings in store of Firing; round about which they lodge within their Tents, leaving the top open to vent Smoak; in which manner they are as warm as the Stoves in Russia. They carry Provision of Meat with them, and partake besides of what Fowle or Venison the Samoede kills with shooting by the way; their Drink is melted Snow. Two Deer being yoak'd to a Sled riding post will draw 200 miles in 24 hours without resting, and laden with their Stuff will draw it 30 miles in 12.

CHAP. III. Of Tingoesia, and the Countries adjoyning eastward, as far as Cathay.

BEyond Narim and Comgoscoi the Souldiers of those Garrisons travailing by appointment of the Russian Governour in the year 1605.Pur. par. 3. found many goodly Countries not inhabited;527. many vast Deserts, and Rivers, till at the end of ten weeks they spy'd certain Cottages, and Herds, or companies of People, which came to them with reverent behaviour, and signify'd to the Samoeds and Tartars, which were Guides to the Russian Souldiers, that they were call'd Tingoesi; that their dwelling was on the great River Ienissey. Ienissey. This River is said to be far bigger than Ob; 527. distant from the Mouth thereof 4 daies and nights sayling;551. and likewise falls into the Sea of Naramzie; it hath high Mountains on the East,546. some of which cast out Fire, to the West a plain and fertil Country, which in the Spring time it overflowes about 70 leagues;527. all that time the Inhabitants keep them in the Mountains,Manners. and then return with their Cattel to the Plain. The Tingoesi are a very gentle Nation, they have great swoln Throats like those in Italy that live under the Alpes; Ibid. at perswasion of the Samoeds they forthwith submitted to the Russian Government; and at their request travailing the next year to discover still eastward, they came at length to a River, which the Savages of that place call'd Pisida, somewhat less than Ienissey; 528. beyond which hearing ofttimes the towling of Brazen Bells, and sometimes the noise of Men and Horses, they durst not pass over; they saw there certain Sayles afar off, square, and therefore suppos'd to be like Indian or China Sayles, and the rather for that they report that great Guns have been heard shot off from those Vessels. In April, and May they were much delighted with the fair prospect of that Country, replenish't with many rare Trees, Plants and Flowers, Beasts and Fowle. Some think here to be the Borders of Tangut in the north of Cathay. 543. Some of those Samoeds about the Year 1610. travail'd so far till they came in view of a White City; and heard a great din of Bells,546. and report there came to them Men all arm'd in Iron from head to foot. And in the Year 1611. divers out of Cathay, and others from Alteen Czar who stiles himself the golden King, came and traded at Zergolta, or Surgoot on the River Ob, bringing with them Plates of Silver. Whereupon Michael Pheodorowick the Russian Emperour in the Year 1619. sent certain of his People from Tooma to Alteen, and Cathay, who return'd with Ambassadours from those Princes. These relate,797. that from Tooma in ten daies and a half, three daies whereof over a Lake, where Rubies and Saphirs grow, they came to the Alteen King, or King of Alty; through his Land in five weeks they pass'd into the Country of Sheromugaly or Mugalla, where reigned a Queen call'd Manchika; whence in four daies they came to the Borders of Cathay, fenc't with a stone Wall, 15 fathom high; along the side of which, having on the other hand many pretty Towns belonging to Queen Manchika, they travail'd ten daies without seeing any on the Wall till they came to the Gate. Where they saw very great Ordnance lying, and 3000 men in watch. They traffick with other Nations at the Gate, and very few at once are suffered to enter. They were travailing from Tooma to this Gate 12 weeks; and from thence to the great City of Cathay ten daies. Where being conducted to the House of Ambassadours, within a few daies there came a Secretary from King Tambur with 200 Men well apparell'd, and riding on Asses, to feast them with divers sorts of Wine, and to demand their Message; but having brought no Presents with them, they could not be admitted to his sight; onely with his Letter to the Emperour they return'd as is aforesaid, to Tobolsca. They report that the Land of Mugalla reaches from Boghar to the north Sea,799. and hath many Castles built of Stone four-square, with Towers at the Corners cover'd with glazed Tiles; and on the Gates Alarum-Bells or Watch-Bells twenty pound weight of Metal; their Houses built also of Stone, the Seelings cunningly painted with Flowers of all Colours. The People are Idolaters; the Country exceeding fruitfull. They have Asses and Mules, but no Horses. The People of Cathay say that this great Wall stretches from Boghar to the north Sea four months journey with continual Towers a flight-shot distant from each other, and Beacons on every Tower; and that this Wall is the bound between Mugalla and Cathay. In which are but five Gates; those narrow, and so low, that a Horse-man sitting upright cannot ride in. Next to the Wall is the City Shirokalga; it hath a Castle well furnish't with short Ordnance, and small Shot, which they who keep watch on the Gates, Towers and Walls, duly at Sun set and rising discharge thrice over. The City abounds with rich Merchandize, Velvets, Damasks, Cloth of Gold and Tissue, with many sorts of Sugars. Like to this is the City Tara, their Markets smell odoriferously with Spices, and Tayth more rich than that. Shirooan yet more magnificent, half a day's journey through, and exceeding populous. From hence to Cathaia the imperial City is two daies journey, built of White-stone four-square, in circuit four daies going, corner'd with four White Towers, very high and great, and others very fair along the Wall, white intermingl'd with blew, and Loop-holes furnisht with Ordnance. In midst of this White City stands a Castle built of Magnet, where the King dwels, in a sumptuous Palace, the top whereof is overlaid with Gold. The City stands on even ground encompass'd with the River Youga, 7 daies journey from the Sea. The People are very fair, but not warlike, delighting most in rich Traffick. These Relations are referr'd hither, because we have them from Russians; who report also,806. that there is a Sea beyond Ob so warm that all kind of Sea-Fowl live thereabout as well in Winter as in Summer. Thus much briefly of the Sea and Lands between Russia, and Cathay.

CHAP. IV. The Succession of Moscovia Dukes and Emperours taken out of their Chronicles by a Polack with some later Additions.Hac. vol. 1. 221.

THE great Dukes of Muscovy derive their Pedegree, though without ground, from Augustus Caesar: whom they fable to have sent certain of his Kindred to be Governours over many remote Provinces; and among them, Prussus over Prussia; him to have had his Seat on the eastern Baltick Shoar by the River Wixel; of whom Rurek, Sinaus, and Truuor descended by the Fourth Generation, were by the Russians living then without Civil Government sent for in the Year 573.573. to bear rule over them; at the perswasion of Gostomislius chief Citizen of Novogrod. They therefore taking with them Olechus their Kinsman divided those Countries among themselves, and each in his Province taught them Civil Government.

Ivorson of Rurek, the rest dying without Issue, became Successour to them all; being left in nonage under the protection of Olechus. He took to wife Olha Daughter to a Citizen of Plesco; of whom he begat Stoslaus; but after that, being slain by his Enemies, Olha his Wife went to Constantinople, and was there baptiz'd Helena.

Stoslaus fought many Battails with his Enemies; but was at length by them slain, who made a Cup of his Scull engrav'n with this Sentence in Gold; Seeking after other Mens he lost his own His Sons were Teropolchus, Olega and Volodimir.

Volodimir having slain the other two, made himself sole Lord of Russia; yet after that fact enclining to Christian Religion, had to wife Anna Sister of Basilius and Constantine Greek Emperours; and with all his People in the Year 988.988. was baptiz'd, and call'd Basilius. Howbeit Zonaras reporteth that before that time Basilius the Greek Emperour sent a Bishop to them; at whose preaching they not being mov'd, but requiring a Miracle, he, after devout Prayers, taking the Book of Gospel into his hands, threw it before them all into the Fire: which remaining there unconsum'd, they were converted.

Volodimir had eleven Sons among whom he divided his Kingdom; Boristus and Glebus for their holy Life register'd Saints; and their Feast kept every year in November with great solemnity. The rest through contention to have the sole Government, ruin'd each other; leaving onely Iaroslaus inheritour of all.

Volodimir Son of Iaroslaus kept his Residence in the ancient City Kiow upon the River Boristenes. And after many conflicts with the Sons of his Uncles; and having subdu'd all was call'd Monomachus. He made war with Constantine the Greek Emperour, wasted Thracia, and returning home with great spoils to prepare new war, was appeas'd by Constantine, who sent Neophytus Bishop of Ephesus, and Eustathius Abbot of Ierusalem, to present him with part of our Saviour's Cross, and other rich Gifts, and to salute him by the name of Czar, or Caesar: with whom he thenceforth enter'd into league and amity.

After him in order of descent Vuszevolodus, George, Demetrius.

Then George, his Son, who in the Year 1237.1237. was slain in battail by the Tartar Prince Bathy, who subdu'd Muscovia and made it tributary. From that time the Tartarians made such Dukes of Russia, as they thought would be most pliable to their ends; of whom they requir'd, as oft as Ambassadours came to him out of Tartary, to go out and meet them; and in his own Court to stand bare-headed, while they sate and deliver'd their Message. At which time the Tartars wasted also Polonia, Silesia, and Hungaria, till Pope Innocent the Fourth obtain'd peace of them for 5 years. This Bathy, say the Russians, was the Father of Tamerlan, whom they call Temirkutla.

Then succeeded Iaroslaus the Brother of George, then Alexander his Son.

Daniel the Son of Alexander was he who first made the City of Mosco his Royal Seat, builded the Castle, and took on him the Title of great Duke.

Iohn the Son of Daniel was sirnamed Kaleta, that word signifying a Scrip, out of which, continually carried about with him, he was wont to deal his Almes.

His Son Simeon dying without Issue left the Kingdom to Iohn his next Brother; and he to his Son Demetrius, who left two Sons, Basilius and George.

Basilius reigning had a Son of his own name, but doubting lest not of his own Body, through the suspicion he had of his Wife's Chastity, him he disinherits, and gives the Dukedom to his Brother George.

George putting his Nephew Basilius in prison, reigns; yet at his death, either through remorse, or other cause surrenders him the Dukedom.

Basilius unexpectedly thus attaining his supposed right, enjoy'd it not long in quiet; for Andrew and Demetrius the two Sons of George counting it injury not to succeed their Father, made war upon him, and surprizing him on a suddain, put out his Eyes. Notwithstanding which, the Boiarens, or Nobles kept their allegiance to the Duke though blind, whom therefore they call'd Cziemnox.

Iohn Vasiliwich his Son was the first who brought the Russian Name out of obscurity into renown. To secure his own Estate he put to death as many of his kindred as were likely to pretend; and stil'd himself great Duke of Wolodimiria, Muscovia, Novogardia, Czar of all Russia. He won Plesco the onely walled City in all Muscovy, and Novogrod the richest, from the Lituanians, to whom they had been subject 50 years before; and from the latter carried home 300 Waggons laden with Treasure. He had war with Alexander King of Poland, and with the Livonians; with him, on pretence of withdrawing his Daughter Helena, whom he had to wife, from the Greek Church to the Romish; with the Livonians for no other cause, but to enlarge his Bounds: though he were often foyl'd by Plettebergius great Master of the Prussian Knights. His Wife was Daughter to the Duke of Tyversky; of her he begat Iohn, and to him resigned his Dukedom; giving him to wife the Daughter of Steven, Palatine of Moldavia; by whom he had Issue Demetrius, and deceas'd soon after. Vasiliwich therefore reassuming the Dukedom married a second Wife Sophia Daughter to Thomas Palaeologus: who is said to have receiv'd her Dowry out of the Pope's Treasury, upon promise of the Duke to become Romish.

This Princess of a haughty mind, often complaining that she was married to the Tartars Vassal, at length by continual perswasions, and by a wile found means to ease her Husband, and his Country of that Yoke. For whereas till then the Tartar had his Procurators, who dwelt in the very Castle of Mosco, to oversee State-affairs, she fain'd that from Heaven she had been warn'd, to build a Temple to Saint Nicholas on the same place where the Tartar Agents had their House. Being therefore delivered of a Son, she made it her request to the Prince of Tartary, whom she had invited to the baptizing, that he would give her that House; which obtaining she raz'd to the ground; and remov'd those Overseers out of the Castle: and so by degrees dispossess'd them of all, which they held in Russia. She prevail'd also with her Husband to transfer the Dukedom from Demetrius the Son of Iohn deceas'd, to Gabriel his eldest by her.

Gabriel no sooner Duke, but chang'd his name to Basilius, and set his mind to doe nobly; he recover'd great part of Muscovy▪ from Vitoldus Duke of Lituania; and on the Boristhenes won Smolensko and many other Cities in the Year 1514.1514. He divorc'd his first Wife, and of Helena Daughter to Duke Glinsky begat Iuan Vasiliwich.

Iuan Vasiliwich being left a Child was committed to George his Unkle and Protector; at 25 years of age he vanquish'd the Tartars of Cazan and Astracan, bringing home with him their Princes captive; made cruel war in Livonia pretending right of inheritance. He seem'd exceedingly devout, and whereas the Russians in their Churches use out of zeal and reverence to knock their Heads against the ground, his Forehead was seldom free of swellings and bruzes, and very often seen to bleed. The cause of his rigour in government, he alledg'd to be the malice and treachery of his Subjects. But some of the Nobles incited by his cruelty, Horsey's Observations. call'd in the Crim Tartar who in the Year 1571.1571. broke into Russia, burnt Mosco to the ground: he reigned 54 years; had three Sons, of which the eldest being strook on a time by his Father, with grief thereof dy'd; his other Sons were Pheodor and Demetrius: in the time of Iuan Vasiliwich the English came first by Sea into the north parts of Russia.

Pheodor Iuanowick being under age was left to the protection of Boris Brother to the young Empress,1584. and third Son by adoption in the Emperour's Will.Hac. vol. 1. After 40 daies of mourning,466. Horsey. the appointed time of Coronation being come, the Emperour issuing out of his Palace, the whole Clergy before him, enter'd with his Nobility the Church of Blaueshina or blessedness; whence after Service to the Church of Michael, then to our Lady Church being the Cathedral. In midst whereof a Chair of Majesty was plac'd, and most unvaluable Garments put upon him: there also was the imperial Crown set on his Head by the Metropolitan, who out of a small Book in his hand read Exhortations to the Emperour, of justice and peaceable government. After this rising from his Chair he was invested with an upper Robe, so thick with Orient Pearls and Stones as weigh'd 200 pounds, the Train born up by 6 Dukes; his Staff imperial was of a Unicorn's Horn three foot and a half long, beset with rich Stones: his Globe, and six Crowns carried before him by Princes of the Bloud: his Horse at the Church door stood ready with a Covering of imbroidered Pearl, Saddle and all suitable to the value of 300 thousand Marks. There was a kind of Bridge made three waies, 150 fathom long, three foot high, two fathom broad, whereon the Emperour with his Train went from one Church to another above the infinite throng of People making loud Acclamations; At the Emperour's returning from those Churches they were spread under-foot, with Cloth of Gold, the Porches with Red Velvet, the Bridges with Scarlet and Stammel-cloth, all which, as the Emperour pass'd by, were cut and snatch't by them that stood next; besides new minted Coines of Gold and Silver cast among the People. The Empress in her Palace was plac't before a great open Window in rich and shining Robes, among her Ladies. After this the Emperour came into Parliament, where he had a Banquet serv'd by his Nobles in princely order; two standing on either side his Chair with Battelaxes of Gold; three of the next Roomes great and large being set round with Plate of Gold and Silver, from the ground up to the roof. This Triumph lasted a week, wherein many royal Pastimes were seen: after which, election was made of the Nobles to new Offices and Dignities. The conclusion of all was a Peal of 170 Brass Ordnance two miles without the City, and 20000 Harquebuzes twice over: and so the Emperour with at least 50 thousand Horse return'd through the City to his Palace: where all the Nobility, Officers, and Merchants brought him rich Presents. Shortly after, the Emperour by direction of Boris conquer'd the large Country of Siberia, and took Prisoner the King thereof: he remov'd also corrupt Officers and former Taxes. In sum, a great alteration in the Government follow'd, yet all quietly, and without tumult. These things reported abroad strook such awe into the neighbour Kings, that the Crim Tartar with his Wives also and many Nobles valiant and personable men came to visit the Russian. There came also 12 hundred Polish Gentlemen, many Circassians, and People of other Nations to offer service; Ambassadours from the Turk, the Persian, Georgian, and other Tartar Princes; from Almany, Poland, Sweden, Denmark. But this glory lasted not long through the treachery of Boris, who procur'd the death first of Demetrius, then of the Emperour himself, whereby the imperial Race after the succession of 300 years was quite extinguish't.

Boris, adopted, as before was said, third Son to Iuan Vasiliwich without impeachment now ascended the Throne; but neither did he enjoy long, what he had so wickedly compass'd;1604. Divine revenge raising up against him a Counterfeit of that Demetrius whom he had caus'd to be murthered at Ouglets. Pur. par. 3. 750. This Upstart strength'd with many Poles and Cossacks appears in arms to claim his right out of the hands of Boris, who sent against him an Army of 200 thousand Men; many of whom revolted to this Demetrius: Peter Basman the General returning to Mosco with the empty Triumph of a reported Victory. But the Enemy still advancing, Boris one day, after a plentifull Meal finding himself heavy and pain'd in his Stomach laid him down on his Bed; but 'ere his Doctours, who made great haste, came to him, was found speechless, and soon after dy'd, with grief, as is suppos'd, of his ill success against Demetrius. Before his death, though it were speedy, he would be shorn, and new christn'd. He had but one Son, whom he lov'd so fondly, as not to suffer him out of sight; using to say he was Lord and Father of his Son, and yet his Servant, yea his Slave. To gain the Peoples love, which he had lost by his ill getting the Empire, he us'd two Policies; first he caus'd Mosco to be fir'd in four places, that in the quenching thereof he might shew his great care and tenderness of the People; among whom he likewise distributed so much of his Bounty, as both new-built their Houses, and repair'd their Losses. At another time the People murmuring, that the great Pestilence which had then swept away a third part of the Nation, was the punishment of their electing him, a Murtherer, to reign over them, he built Galleries round about the utmost Wall of Mosco; and there appointed for one whole month 20 thousand pound to be given to the Poor; which well nigh stopt their Mouths. After the death of Boris, Peter Basman their onely hope and refuge, though a Young man, was sent again to the Wars, with him many English, Scots, French and Dutch; who all with the other General Goleeche sell off to the new Demetrius; whose Messengers coming now to the Suburbs of Mosco, were brought by the Multitude to that spatious Field before the Castle Gate; within which the Council were then sitting; many of whom were by the Peoples threatning call'd out and constrain'd to hear the Letters of Demetrius openly read: which, long 'ere the end, wrought so with the Multitude, that furiously they broke into the Castle, laying violence on all they met; when strait appear'd coming towards them two Messengers of Demetrius formerly sent, pittifully whipt and roasted, which added to their rage. Then was the whole City in an uproar, all the great Counselours Houses ransack't, especially of the Godonova's the Kindred and Family of Boris. Such of the Nobles that were best belov'd, by entreaty prevail'd at length to put an end to this Tumult. The Empress flying to a safer place had her Collar of Pearl pull'd from her Neck; and by the next Message command was given to secure her with her Son and Daughter. Whereupon Demetrius by general consent was proclaim'd Emperour. The Empress now seeing all lost, counsel'd the Prince her Son to follow his Father's example; who, it seems, had dispatch't himself by Poyson; and with a desperate courage beginning the deadly Health, was pledg'd effectually by her Son; but the Daughter onely sipping, escap'd. Others ascribe this deed to the secret Command of Demetrius, and Self-murther imputed to them, to avoid the envy of such a Command.

Demetrius Evanowich, Pur. par. 3. for so he call'd himself,764. who succeeded, was credibly reported the Son of Gregory Peupoloy a Russe Gentleman, and in his younger years to have been shorn a Fryar; but escaping from the Monastery, to have travail'd Germany and other Countries, but chiefly Poland: where he attain'd to good sufficiency in Arms and other Experience; which rais'd in him such high thoughts, as grounding on a common belief among the Russians, that the young Demetrius was not dead, but convey'd away, and their hatred against Boris, on this foundation with some other circumstances, to build his hopes no lower than an Empire; which on his first discovery found acceptation so generally, as planted him at length on the Royal Seat; but not so firmly as the fair beginning promis'd; for in a short while the Russians finding themselves abus'd by an Impostor, on the sixth day after his marriage▪ observing when his Guard of Poles were most secure, rushing into the Palace before break of day, drag'd him out of his Bed, and when he had confes'd the fraud, pull'd him to pieces; with him Peter Basman was also slain, and both their dead Bodies laid open in the Market-place. He was of no presence, but otherwise of a princely disposition; too bountifull, which occasion'd some exactions; in other matters a great lover of justice, not unworthy the Empire which he had gotten, and lost onely through greatness of mind, neglecting the Conspiracy, which he knew the Russians were plotting. Some say their hatred grew, for that they saw him alienated from the Russian Manners and Religion, having made Buchinskoy a learned Protestant his Secretary. Some report from Gilbert's relation, who was a Scot, and Captain, of his Guard, that lying on his Bed awake, not long before the Conspiracy, he saw the appearance of an aged man coming toward him; at which he rose, and call'd to them that watch'd; but they denied to have seen any such pass by them. He returning to his Bed, and within an hour after troubl'd again with the same Apparition, sent for Buchinskoy, telling him he had now twice the same night seen an aged man, who at his second coming told him, that though he were a good Prince of himself, yet for the injustice and oppression of his inferiour Ministers, his Empire should be taken from him. The Secretary counsell'd him to embrace true Religion, affirming that for lack thereof, his Officers were so corrupt. The Emperour seem'd to be much mov'd, and to intend what was perswaded him. But a few daies after, the other Secretary, a Russian, came to him with a drawn Sword; of which the Emperour made slight at first; but he after bold words assaulted him, strait seconded by other Conspiratours crying liberty. Gilbert with many of the Guard oversuddenly surpris'd retreated to Coluga a Town which they fortify'd; most of the other Strangers were massacr'd, except the English, whose mediation sav'd also Buchinskoy. Shusky who succeeded him reports in a Letter to King Iames otherwise of him; that his right name was Gryshca the Son of Boughdan; that to escape punishment for Villanies done, he turn'd Fryar, and fell at last to the Black art; and fearing that the Metropolitan intended therefore to imprison him, fled into Lettow; where by counsel of Sigismund the Poland King, he began to call himself Demetry of Ouglitts; and by many Libels and Spies privily sent into Mosco, gave out the same; that many Letters and Messengers thereupon were sent from Boris into Poland, and from the Patriarch, to acquaint them who the Runnagate was; but the Polanders, giving them no credit, furnish't him the more with Arms and Money, notwithstanding the League; and sent the Palatine Sandamersko and other Lords to accompany him into Russia, gaining also a Prince of the Crim Tartars to his aide; that the Army of Boris hearing of his sudden death, yielded to this Gryshca, who taking to wife the Daughter of Sandamersko, attempted to root out the Russian Clergy, and to bring in the Romish Religion, for which purpose many Jesuits came along with him. Whereupon Shusky with the Nobles and Metropolitans conspiring against him, in half a year gather'd all the Forces of Moscovia, and surprising him found in writing under his own hand all these his Intentions; Letters also from the Pope and Cardinals to the same effect, not onely to set up the Religion of Rome, but to force it upon all, with death to them that refus'd.

Vasily Evanowich Shusky after the slaughter of Demetry or Gryshca was elected Emperour;1606. having not long before been at the Block for reporting to have seen the true Demetrius dead and buried; but Gryshca not onely recall'd him, but advanc'd him, to be the instrument of his own ruine. He was then about the age of 50; nobly descended, never married, of great wisedom reputed, a favourer of the English; for he sav'd them from ritling in the former Tumults. Some say he modestly refus'd the Crown,Purch. till by lot four times together it fell to him; part. 3. yet after that,769, &c. growing jealous of his Title, remov'd by Poyson, and other means all the Nobles that were like to stand his Rivals; and is said to have consulted with Witches of the Samoeds, Lappians and Tartarians, about the same fears; and being warn'd of one Michalowich, to have put to death three of that name; yet a fourth was reserv'd by fate to succeed him; being then a Youth attendant in the Court, one of those that held the golden Axes, and least suspected. But before that time he also was supplanted by another reviving Demetrius brought in by the Poles; whose counterfeited Hand, and strange relating of privatest Circumstances had almost deceiv'd Gilbert himself; had not their persons been utterly unlike; but Gryshca's Wife so far believ'd him for her Husband, as to receive him to her Bed. Shusky besieg'd in his Castle of Mosco, was adventrously supply'd with some Powder and Ammunition by the English; and with 2000 French, English and Scots, with other Forces from Charles King of Sweden. The English after many miseries of cold,1609. and hunger and assaults by the way, deserted by the French, yielded most of them to the Pole, neer Smolensko, and serv'd him against the Russ. Mean while this second Demetrius being now rejected by the Poles, 779. with those Russians that sided with him laid siege to Mosco: Zolkiewsky for Sigismund King of Poland Beleaguers on the other side with forty thousand Men; whereof 1500 English, Scotch, and French. Shusky despairing success betakes him to a Monastery; but with the City is yielded to the Pole; who turns now his force against the Counterfeit Demetrius; he seeking to fly is by a Tartar slain in his Camp. Smolensko held out a siege of two years, then surrender'd. Shusky the Emperour carried away into Poland, there ended miserably in prison. But before his departure out of Muscovy the Polanders in his name sending for the chief Nobility as to a last farewell, cause them to be entertain'd in a secret place, and there dispatch'd: by this means the easier to subdue the People. Yet the Poles were starv'd at length out of those Places in Mosco which they had fortify'd. Wherein the Russians who besieg'd them, found, as is reported, 60 Barrels of Man's Flesh powder'd, being the Bodies of such as dy'd among them, or were slain in fight.

After which the Empire of Russia broke to pieces,1612. the prey of such as could catch, every one naming himself, and striving to be accounted that Demetrius of Ouglitts. Some chose Vladislaus King Sigismund's Son, but he not accepting, they fell to a popular Government; killing all the Nobles under pretence of favouring the Poles. Some overtures of receiving them were made, as some say, to King Iames, and Sir Iohn Meric, and Sir William Russel imploy'd therein. Thus Russia remaining in this confusion, it happen'd that a mean Man, a Butcher dwelling in the North about Duina, Purch. inveying against the baseness of their Nobility,part. 3. and the corruption of Officers,790. uttered words, that if they would but choose a faithfull Treasurer to pay well the Souldiers, and a good General (naming one Pozarsky a poor Gentleman, who after good service done liv'd not far off retir'd and neglected;) that then he doubted not to drive out the Poles. The People assent, and choose that General; the Butcher they make their Treasurer who both so well discharg'd their Places, that with an Army soon gather'd they raise the siege of Mosco, which the Polanders had renew'd; and with Boris Licin another great Souldier of that Countrey fall into consultation about the choise of an Emperour, and chose at last Michalowich, or Michael Pheodorowich, the fatal Youth, whose name Shusky so fear'd.

Michael Pheodorowich thus elected by the valour of Pozarsky and Boris Licin, 1613. made them both Generals of his Forces, joyning with them another great Commander of the Cossacks whose aid had much befriended him; the Butcher also was made a Counselour of State. Finally a Peace was made up between the Russians and the Poles; and that partly by the mediation of King Iames.

CHAP. V. The first discovery of Russia by the North-east, 1553 with the English Embassies, and Entertainments at that Court, untill the Year 1604.

THE discovery of Russia by the northern Ocean, Hac. vol. 1. made first,243. 234. of any Nation that we know, by English men, might have seem'd an enterprise almost heroick; if any higher end than the excessive love of Gain and Traffick, had animated the design. Nevertheless that in regard that many things not unprofitable to the knowledge of Nature, and other Observations are hereby come to light, as good events ofttimes arise from evil occasions, it will not be the worst labour to relate briefly the beginning, and prosecution of this adventurous Voiage; untill it became at last a familiar Passage.

When our Merchants perceiv'd the Commodities of England to be in small request abroad, and foreign Merchandize to grow higher in esteem and value than before, they began to think with themselves how this might be remedied. And seeing how the Spaniards and Portugals had encreas'd their Wealth by discovery of new Trades and Countries, they resolv'd upon some new and strange Navigation. At the same time Sebastian Chabota, a man for the knowledge of Sea-affairs much renown'd in those daies, happen'd to be in London. With him first they consult; and by his advice conclude to furnish out three Ships for the search and discovery of the northern parts. And having heard that a certain Worm is bred in that Ocean, which many times eateth through the strongest Oak, they contrive to cover some part of the Keel of those Ships with thin sheets of Lead; and victual them for 18 months; allowing equally to their journey their stay, and their return. Arms also they provide and store of Munition, with sufficient Captains and Governours for so great an enterprise. To which among many, and some void of experience that offer'd themselves, Sir Hugh Willowby a valiant Gentleman earnestly requested to have the charge. Of whom before all others both for his goodly personage, and singular skill in the services of War, they made choise to be Admiral; and of Richard Chancelor, a man greatly esteem'd for his skill, to be chief Pilot. This man was brought up by Mr. Henry Sidney, afterwards Deputy of Ireland, who coming where the Adventurers were gather'd together; though then a young man, with a grave and eloquent Speech commended Chancelor unto them.

After this, they omitted no enquiry after any person that might inform them concerning those north-easterly parts to which the Voiage tended; and two Tartarians then of the King's Stable were sent for; but they were able to answer nothing to purpose. So after much debate it was concluded that by the 20th of May the Ships should depart. Being come near Greenwich where the Court then lay, presently the Courtiers came running out, the Privy Council at the Windows, the rest on the Towers and Battlements. The Mariners all apparell'd in Watchet, or sky-coloured Cloth, discharge their Ordnance; the noise whereof, and of the People shouting is answer'd from the Hills and Waters with as loud an Echo. Onely the good King Edward then sick beheld not this sight, but dy'd soon after. From hence putting into Harwich, they staid long and lost much time. At length passing by Shetland, they kenn'd a far off Aegelands, being an innumerable sort of Islands call'd Rost Islands in 66 degrees. Thence to Lofoot in 68. to Seinam in 70 degrees; these Islands belong all to the Crown of Denmark. Whence departing Sir Hugh Willowby set out his Flag by which he call'd together the chief men of his other Ships to counsel; where they conclude, in case they happen'd to be scatter'd by Tempest, that Wardhouse a noted Haven in Finmark be the appointed place of their meeting. The very same day after noon so great a Tempest arose, that the Ships were some driv'n one way, some another in great peril. The General with his loudest voice call'd to Chancelor not to be far from him; but in vain, for the admiral sayling much better than his Ship, and bearing all her Sayles was carried with great swiftness soon out of sight; but before that, the Ship-boat striking against her Ship was overwhelmed in view of the Bonaventure whereof Chancelor was Captain.Hac. 235. The third Ship also in the same Storm was lost. But Sir Hugh Willowby escaping that Storm, and wandring on those desolate Seas till the 18th of September put into a Haven where they had Weather as in the depth of Winter; and there determining to abide till Spring, sent out three men southwest to find Inhabitants; who journy'd three daies but found none; then other three went westward four daies journey, and lastly three southeast three daies; but they all returning without news of People, or any sign of Habitation, Sir Hugh with the company of his two Ships abode there till Ianuary, as appears by a Will since found in one of the Ships; but then perish'd all with cold. This River or Haven was Arzina in Lapland neer to Kegor, Hac. 464. where they were found dead the year after by certain Russian Fishermen. Whereof the English Agent at Mosco having notice, sent and recover'd the Ships with the dead Bodies and most of the Goods, and sent them for England; but the Ships being unstanch, as is suppos'd, by their two years wintring in Lapland, sunk by the way with their Dead, and them also that brought them. But now Chancelor with his Ship and Company thus left, shap'd his course to Wardhouse, the place agreed on to expect the rest; where having staid 7 daies without tydings of them, he resolves at length to hold on his Voiage; and sayl'd so far till he found no night, but continual day and Sun cleerly shining on that huge and vast Sea for certain daies. At length they enter into a great Bay, nam'd, as they knew after, from Saint Nicholas; and spying a Fisherboat, made after him to know what People they were. The Fishermen amaz'd with the greatness of his Ship, to them a strange and new sight, sought to fly; but overtak'n, in great fear they prostrate themselves, and offer to kiss his Feet; but he raysing them up with all signes and gestures of courtesie, sought to win their friendship. They no sooner dismist, but spread abroad the arrival of a strange Nation, whose humanity they spake of with great affection; whereupon the People running together, with like return of all courteous usage receive them; offering them Victuals freely; nor refusing to traffick, but for a loyal Custom which bound them from that, without first the consent had of their King. After mutual demands of each other's Nation they found themselves to be in Russia where Iuan Vasiliwich at that time reign'd Emperour. To whom privily the Governour of that place sending notice of the strange Guests that were arriv'd, held in the mean while our Men in what suspence he could. The Emperour well pleas'd with so unexpected a Message, invites them to his Court, offring them Posthorses at his own charge, or if the journey seem'd overlong, that they might freely traffick where they were. But 'ere this Messenger could return, having lost his way, the Muscovites themselves, loath that our men should depart which they made shew to doe, furnish't them with Guides and other Conveniences to bring them to their King's presence. Chancelor had now gon more than half his journey, when the Sled man sent to Court meets him on the way; delivers him the Emperour's Letters; which when the Russes understood, so willing they were to obey the Contents thereof, that they quarrell'd and strove who should have the preferment to put his Horses to the Sled. So after a long and troublesome journey of 1500 miles he arriv'd at Mosco. After he had remain'd in the City about 12 daies, a Messenger was sent to bring them to the King's House. Being enter'd within the Court Gates, and brought into an outward Chamber, they beheld there a very honourable company to the number of a hunder'd sitting all apparell'd in Cloth of gold down to their Ancles: next conducted to the Chamber of presence, there sate the Emperour on a lofty and very royal Throne; on his Head a Diadem of gold, his Robe all of Goldsmiths work, in his Hand a chrystal Sceptre garnish'd and beset with precious Stones; no less was his Countenance full of majesty. Beside him stood his chief Secretary; on his other side the great Commander of silence, both in Cloth of gold; then sate his Council of 150 round about on high Seats, clad all as richly. Chancelor nothing abash'd made his obeysance to the Emperour after the English manner. The Emperour having taken, and read his Letters, after some enquiry of King Edward's Health, invited them to dinner, and till then dismiss'd them. But before dismission the Secretary presented their Present bareheaded; till which time they were all cover'd; and before admittance our men had charge not to speak, but when the Emperour demanded ought. Having sat two hours in the Secretary's Chamber, they were at length call'd in to dinner; where the Emperour was set at Table, now in a Robe of silver, and another Crown on his Head. This place was call'd the golden Palace, but without cause, for the English men had seen many fairer; round about the room, but at distance, were other long Tables; in the midst a Cupboard of huge and massy goblets, and other Vessels of gold and silver; among the rest four great Flagons nigh two yards high, wrought in the top with devices of Towers and Dragons heads. The Guests ascended to their Tables by three steps; all apparell'd in Linnen, and that lin'd with rich Furrs. The Messes came in without order, but all in Chargers of gold, both to the Emperour, and to the rest that din'd there, which were two hundred persons; on every Board also were set Cups of gold without number. The Servitors one hundred and forty were likewise array'd in gold, and waited with Caps on their heads. They that are in high favour sit on the same Bench with the Emperour, but far off. Before Meat came in, according to the custom of their Kings, he sent to every Guest a slice of Bread; whom the Officer naming saith thus, Iohn Basiliwich Emperour of Russ, &c. doth reward thee with Bread, at which words all men stand up. Then were Swans in several pieces serv'd in, each piece in a several Dish, which the great Duke sends about as the Bread, and so likewise the Drink. In dinner time he twice chang'd his Crown, his Waiters thrice their Apparel; to whom the Emperour in like manner gives both Bread and Drink with his own hands; which they say is done to the intent that he may perfectly know his own Houshold; and indeed when dinner was done, he call'd his Nobles every one before him by name; and by this time Candles were brought in, for it grew dark; and the English departed to their Lodgings from dinner, an hour within night.

In the Year 1555.Hac. 258. 263. 465. Chancelor made another voiage to this Place with Letters from Queen Mary; had a House in Mosco, and Diet appointed him; and was soon admitted to the Emperour's presence in a large room spread with Carpets; at his entring and salutation all stood up, the Emperour onely sitting, except when the Queen's name was read, or spoken; for then he himself would rise: at dinner he sate bareheaded; his Crown and rich Cap standing on a Pinacle by.286. Chancelor returning for England, Osep Napea Governour of Wologda came in his Ship Ambassadour from the Russe; but suffering shipwrack in Pettislego a Bay in Scotland, Chancelor who took more care to save the Ambassadour than himself was drown'd, the Ship rifled, and most of her lading made booty by the People thereabout.

In the Year 1557. Osep Napea returned into his Countrey with Antony Ienkinson who had the command of four tall Ships.310, &c. He reports of a Whirlpool between the Rost Islands and Lofoot call'd Malestrand; which from half ebb till half flood is heard to make so terrible a noise, as shakes the Door-rings of Houses in those Islands ten mile off; Whales that come within the Current thereof make a pittifull cry; Trees carried in and cast out again have the ends and boughs of them so beaten, as they seem like the stalks of bruized Hemp. About Zeinam they saw many Whales very monstrous hard by their Ships; whereof some by estimation sixty foot long; they roard hideously, it being then the time of their engendring. At Wardhouse, he saith, the Cattel are fed with Fish. Coming to Mosco, he found the Emperour sitting aloft in a Chair of state, richly crown'd, a Staff of gold in his hand wrought with costly stone. Distant from him sate his Brother, and a Youth the Emperour's Son of Casan whom the Russ had conquer'd; there din'd with him diverse Ambassadours, Christian and Heathen, diversely apparell'd; his Brother with some of the chief Nobles sate with him at Table: the Guests were in all six hundred. In dinner time came in six Musicians; and standing in the midst, sung three several times, but with little or no delight to our men; there din'd at the same time in other Halls two thousand Tartars who came to serve the Duke in his Wars. The English were set at a small Table by themselves direct before the Emperour; who sent them diverse Bowles of Wine and Meath and many Dishes from his own hand: the Messes were but mean, but the change of Wines and several Meaths were wonderfull. As oft as they din'd with the Emperour, he sent for them in the Morning, and invited them with his own mouth. On Christmass day being invited,317. they had for other provision as before; but for store of gold and silver Plate excessive; among which were twelve Barrels of silver, hoop'd with fine gold containing twelve gallons apiece.

1560. Was the first English traffick to the Narve in Livonia, till then conceal'd by Danskers and Lubeckers.

1561. The same Antony Ienkinson made another voiage to Mosco; and arriv'd while the Emperour was celebrating his marriage with a Circassian Lady; during which time the City Gates for three daies were kept shut; and all men whatsoever straitly commanded to keep within their Houses; except some of his Houshold; the cause whereof is not known.

1566. He made again the same voiage;311. which now men usually made in a month from London to Saint Nicholas with good Windes, being seven hundred and fifty leagues.

1568. Thomas Randolf, Esq went Embassadour to Muscovy, 373. from Queen Elizabeth; and in his passage by Sea met nothing remarkable save great store of Whales, whom they might see engendring together, and the Sperma-ceti swimming on the Water. At Colmogro he was met by a Gentleman from the Emperour, at whose charge he was conducted to Mosco: but met there by no man; not so much as the English; lodg'd in a fair House built for Ambassadours; but there confin'd upon some suspicion which the Emperour had conceav'd; sent for at length after seventeen weeks delay, was fain to ride thither on a borrow'd Horse, his men on foot. In a Chamber before the presence were sitting about three hundred Persons, all in rich Robes taken out of the Emperour's Wardrobe for that day; they sate on three ranks of Benches, rather for shew than that the Persons were of honour; being Merchants, and other mean Inhabitants. The Ambassadour saluted them, but by them unsaluted pass'd on with his Head cover'd. At the Presence door being receiv'd by two which had been his Guardians, and brought into the midst, he was there will'd to stand still, and speak his message from the Queen; at whose name the Emperour stood up, and demanded her health: then giving the Ambassadour his Hand to kiss fell to many questions. The Present being deliver'd, which was a great silver Bowle curiously grav'n, the Emperour told him, he din'd not that day openly because of great Affairs; but, saith he, I will send thee my Dinner, and augment thy Allowance. And so dismissing him, sent a Duke richly apparell'd soon after to his Lodging with fifty Persons each of them carrying Meat in silver Dishes cover'd; which himself deliver'd into the Ambassadour's own hands tasting first of every Dish, and every sort of Drink; that done, set him down with his Company, took part, and went not thence unrewarded. The Emperour sent back with this Ambassadour another of his own call'd Andrew Savin.

1571. Ienkinson made a third voiage; but was staid long at Colmogro by reason of the Plague in those Parts; at length had audience where the Court then was, near to Pereslave; to which place the Emperour was return'd from his Swedish War with ill success: and Mosco the same year had been wholly burnt by the Crim; in it the English House, and diverse English were smother'd in the Sellars, multitudes of People in the City perish'd, all that were young led captive with exceeding spoil.

1583. Hac. vol. 1. Iuan Basiliwich having the year before sent his Ambassadour Pheodor Andrewich about matters of Commerce,458. the Queen made choice of Sir Ierom Bowes, one of her houshold, to go into Russia; who being attended with more than forty persons, and accompanied with the Russe returning home, arriv'd at St. Nicolas. The Dutch by this time had intruded into the Muscovy-Trade; which by privilege long before had been granted solely to the English; and had corrupted to their side Shalkan the Chancellor, with others of the great ones; who so wrought, that a creature of their own was sent to meet Sir Ierom at Colmogro, and to offer him occasions of dislike: Until at Vologda he was receiv'd by another from the Emperour; and at Yeraslave by a Duke well accompanied, who presented him with a Coach and ten Geldings. Two miles from Mosco met him four Gentlemen with Two hundred Horse, who after short salutation, told him what they had to say from the Emperour, willing him to alight, which the Ambassadour soon refus'd, unless they also lighted; whereon they stood long debating; at length agreed, great dispute follow'd, whose foot should first touch the ground. Their Message deliver'd, and then embracing, they conducted the Ambassador to a house at Mosco, built for him purposely. At his going to Court he and his followers honourably mounted and apparell'd, the Emperour's Guard were set on either side all the way about 6000 shot. At the Court-gate met him four Noblemen in Cloth of Gold, and rich Furr-Caps, embroider'd with Pearl and Stone; then four others of greater degree, in which passage there stood along the Walls, and sate on Benches seven or eight hundred men in colour'd Sattins and Gold. At the Presence-dore met him the chief Herald, and with him all the great Officers of Court, who brought him where the Emperour sate: there were set by him three Crowns of Muscovy, Cazan and Astracan; on each side stood two young Noblemen, costly apparell'd in White; each of them had a broad Axe on his shoulder; on the Benches round sate above a hundred Noblemen. Having giv'n the Ambassadour his hand to kiss, and enquir'd of the Queens Health, he will'd him to go sit in the place provided for him, nigh ten paces distant; from thence to send him the Queens Letters and Present. Which the Ambassadour thinking not reasonable, step'd forward; but the Chancellor meeting him, would have tak'n his Letters; to whom the Ambassadour said, that the Queen had directed no Letters to him; and so went on and deliver'd them to the Emperour's own hands; and after a short withdrawing into the Council-Chamber, where he had Conference with some of the Council, he was call'd in to dinner: about the midst whereof, the Emperour standing up, drank a deep Carouse to the Queens Health, and sent to the Ambassadour a great Bowl of Rhenish-Wine to pledge him. But at several times being call'd for to treat about Affairs, and not yielding ought beyond his Commission, the Emperour not wont to be gain-say'd, one day especially broke into passion, and with a stern countenance told him, he did not reckon the Queen to be his fellow; for there are, quoth he, her betters. The Ambassadour not holding it his part, whatever danger might ensue, to hear any derogate from the Majesty of his Prince, with like courage and countenance told him, that the Queen was equal to any in Christendom who thought himself greatest; and wanted not means to offend her Enemies whomsoever. Yea, quoth he, what saist thou of the French and Spanish Kings? I hold her, quoth the Ambassadour, equal to either. Then what to the German Emperour? Her Father, quoth he, had the Emperour in his pay. This answer mislik'd the Duke so far, as that he told him, were he not an Ambassadour, he would throw him out of doors. You may, said the Ambassadour, doe your will, for I am now fast in your Countrey; but the Queen I doubt not will know how to be reveng'd of any injury offer'd to her Ambassadour. Whereat the Emperour in great sudden bid him get home; and he with no more reverence than such usage requir'd, saluted the Emperour, and went his way. Notwithstanding this, the Muscovite, soon as his mood left him, spake to them that stood by, many praises of the Ambassadour, wishing he had such a Servant, and presently after sent his chief Secretary to tell him that whatever had pass'd in words, yet for his great respect to the Queen, he would shortly after dispatch him with honour and full contentment, and in the mean while he much enlarg'd his entertainment. He also desir'd that the Points of our Religion might be set down, and caus'd them to be read to his Nobility with much approbation. And as the year before he had sought in marriage the Lady Mary Hastings, which took not effect, the Lady and her Friends excusing it, he now again renu'd the motion to take to wife some one of the Queen's Kinswomen either by sending an Embassage, or going himself with his Treasure into England. Now happy was that Nobleman whom Sir Ierom Bowes in publick favour'd; unhappy they who had oppos'd him: for the Emperour, had beaten Shalkan the Chancelour very grievously for that cause, and threatn'd not to leave one of his race alive. But the Emperour dying soon after of a Surfeit, Shalkan to whom then almost the whole Government was committed, caus'd the Ambassadour to remain close Prisoner in his House nine weeks. Being sent for at length to have his dispatch, and slightly enough conducted to the Council Chamber, he was told by Shalkan that this Emperour would condescend to no other agreements than were between his Father and the Queen before his coming: and so disarming both him and his Company, brought them to the Emperour with many affronts in their passage, for which there was no help but patience. The Emperour saying but over what the Chancelour had said before, offer'd him a Letter for the Queen: which the Ambassadour, knowing it contain'd nothing to the purpose of his Embassy, refus'd, till he saw his danger grow too great; nor was he suffer'd to reply, or have his Interpreter. Shalkan sent him word that now the English Emperour was dead; and hasten'd his departure, but with so many disgraces put upon him, as made him fear some mischief in his journey to the Sea; having onely one mean Gentleman sent with him to be his Convoy; he commanded the English Merchants in the Queen's name to accompany him, but such was his danger, that they durst not. So arming himself and his Followers in the best wise he could, against any outrage, he at length recover'd the Shoar of Saint Nicholas. Where he now resolv'd to send them back by his Conduct some of the affronts which he had receiv'd. Ready therefore to take Ship, he causes three or four of his valientest and discreetest men to take the Emperour's Letter, and disgracefull Present, and to deliver it, or leave it at the Lodging of his Convoy, which they safely did; though follow'd with a great Tumult of such as would have forc'd them to take it back.

1584. At the Coronation of Pheodor the Emperour▪ Ierom Horsey being then Agent in Russia, and call'd for to court with one Iohn de Wale a Merchant of the Netherlands and a Subject of Spain, some of the Nobles would have preferr'd the Fleming before the English. But to that our Agent would in no case agree, saying he would rather have his Leggs cut off by the Knees, then bring his present in course after a Subject of Spain. The Emperour and Prince Boris perceiving the controversy, gave order to admit Horsey first: who was dismiss'd with large Promises, and seventy Messes with three Carts of several Meath sent after him.

1588. Dr. Giles Fletcher went Ambassadour from the Queen to Pheodor then Emperour; whose Relations being judicious and exact are best red entirely by themselves.508. This Emperour upon report of the great learning of Iohn Dee the Mathematician invited him to Mosco with offer of two thousand pound a year, and from Prince Boris one thousand Marks; to have his Provision from the Emperour's Table, to be honourably receiv'd, and accounted as one of the chief men in the Land. All which Dee accepted not.

1604. Sir Thomas Smith was sent Ambassadour from King Iames to Boris then Emperour; and staid some daies at a place five miles from Mosco till he was honourably receiv'd into the City; met on horseback by many thousands of Gentlemen and Nobles on both sides the way; where the Ambassadour alighting from his Coach and mounted on his Horse, rode with his Trumpets sounding before him; till a Gentleman of the Emperour's Stable brought him a Gennet gorgeously trapt with gold, pearl and stone, especially with a great Chain of plated gold about his Neck, and Horses richly adorn'd for his Followrs. Then came three great Noblemen with an Interpreter offring a Speech; but the Ambassadour deeming it to be ceremony, with a brief Complement found means to put it by. Thus alighting all, they saluted, and gave hands mutually. Those three after a tedious preamble of the Emperour's Title thrice repeated brought a several Complement of three words apiece, as namely, the first, to know how the King did, the next, how the Ambassadour, the third, that there was a fair House provided him. Then on they went on either hand of the Ambassadour, and about six thousand Gallants behind them; still met within the City by more of greater quality to the very Gate of his lodging: where fifty Gunners were his daily Guard both at home and abroad. The Prestaves or Gentlemen assign'd to have the care of his entertainment, were earnest to have had the Ambassadour's Speech and Message given them in writing, that the Interpreter, as they pretended, might the better translate it; but he admonish'd them of their foolish demand. On the day of his audience other Gennets were sent him and his Attendants to ride on, and two white Palfreys to draw a rich Chariot, which was parcel of the Present; the rest whereof was carried by his Followers through a lane of the Emperour's Guard; many Messengers posting up and down the while, till they came through the great Castle, to the uttermost Court gate. There met by a great Duke they were brought up stairs through a Stone-gallery, where stood on each hand many in fair Coats of Persian Stuff, Velvet and Damask. The Ambassadour by two other Counselours being led into the presence, after his obeysance done, was to stay and hear again the long Title repeated; then the particular Presents; and so deliver'd as much of his Embassage as was then requisite. After which the Emperour arising from his Throne demandeth of the King's health; so did the young Prince. The Ambassadour then deliver'd his Letters into the Emperour's own hand, though the Chancelour offer'd to have taken them. He bore the Majesty of a mighty Emperour; his Crown and Sceptre of pure gold, a Collar of Pearls about his Neck, his Garment of crimson Velvet embroider'd with precious stone and gold. On his right Side stood a fair Globe of beaten gold on a Pyramis with a Cross upon it • to which, before he spake, turning a little he crost himself. Not much less in splendour on another Throne sate the Prince. By the Emperour stood two Noblemen in Cloth of silver, high Caps of black Furr, and Chains of gold hanging to their Feet; on their Shoulders two Poleaxes of gold; and two of silver by the Prince; the ground was all cover'd with Arras or Tapistry-Dismist, and brought in again to dinner they saw the Emperour and his Son seated in state, ready to dine; each with a Skull of Pearl on their bare Heads, their Vestments chang'd. In the midst of this Hall seem'd to stand a Pillar heap'd round to a great height with massy Plate curiously wrought with Beasts, Fishes and Fowl. The Emperour's Table was serv'd with two hundred Noblemen in Coats of gold; the Princes Table with young Dukes of Casan, Astracan, Siberia, Tartaria and Circassia. The Emperour sent from his Table to the Ambassadour, thirty Dishes of Meat, to each a Loaf of extraordinary fine Bread. Then follow'd a number more of strange and rare Dishes • il'd up by half dozens, with boyl'd, roast and bak't, most part of them besawc'd with Garlick and Onions. In midst of dinner calling the Ambassadour up to him he drank the King's health, who receiving it from his hand, return'd to his place, and in the same Cup being of fair Chrystal pledg'd it with all his Company. After dinner they were call'd up to drink of excellent and strong Meath from the Emperour's hand; of which when many did but sip, he urg'd it not; saying he was best pleas'd with what was most for their health. Yet after that, the same day he sent a great and glorious Duke, one of them that held the golden Poleax, with his Retinue, and sundry sorts of Meath to drink merrily with the Ambassadour, which some of the English did, untill the Duke and his Followers light-headed, but well rewarded with thirty yards of Cloth of gold, and two standing Cups, departed. At second audience the Ambassadour had like reception as before: and being dismiss'd had dinner sent after him with three hundred several Dishes of Fish, it being Lent, of such strangeness, greatness and goodness as scarce would be credible to report. The Ambassadour departing was brought a mile out of the City with like honour as he was first met; where lighting from the Emperour's Sled, he took him to his Coach, made fast upon a Sled; the rest to their Sleds an easy and pleasant passage.