Hysmael was Majestical Selimus tyrannical Hysmael courteous Selimus churlish in devotion and gravity neither suffered he his Wives to come to Court nor using their Company but for procreation sake and that as was thought without any great countenance for he being more delighted with unnatural pleasure thought a mans minde and body to be not a little weakned with the allurements of Women scoffing also many times at his Father Ba jazet who he said was so drowned in the study of Averroes determining nothing certainly of the souls nature and the Heavens motions that he desired rather the name of a sharp disputer amongst the idle professors of Philosophy than of a renowned Chiefetain amongst his valiant Souldiers A Persian Ambassador finding him pleasant asked him Why he wore not his beard long as Ba jazet and others to seem of greater Majesty who answered He liked not to carry such an unnecessary handful whereby his Bassaes might at pleasure lead him up and down the Court as they did his Father for Selimus followed no advice but his own in what ever he undertook The cause why Hysmael out of so many large Provinces for he had under his Dominion Armenia the greater Sulthania Persia Assyria Mesopotamia Media and Parthia Armenia being the chiefest which yields the Persian his best foot Persia his choyce Horsemen chiefly from Scyras next to them from Assyria whose chief City is Bagdat or Babylon the Medes and Parthians being the best Archers next to the Scythians brought now so small an Army against Selimus was because to win his peoples hearts he had remitted a great part of his Customs and Tributes so that he wanting money could not raise such an Army as otherwise he might out of those populous Countries yielding plentifully all necessaries for mans use But in 1515 Selimus wintring at Amasia raised such a power in Europe and Asia that at first of the Spring he entred again into the Persian Confines with a greater Army and that sooner than either that part of Armenia's cold would suffer or the enemy thought he could have done who thought in any case to be Master of strong Ciamassum standing on the first entrance into Armenia thereby as of some holds thereabouts to open a fair way into his enemies Countrey Hysmael being then gone against the rebellious Hyrcanians Bactrians c. Selimus making a Bridge over Euphrates laid hard siege to Ciamassum before they were well aware driving the Defendants from the Walls with their Harquebusiers and Archers and still bringing on fresh men others then also breaking open the Gates and scaling the walls in divers places the Defendants retired into the Market-place where though spent and wounded they resolutely fought it out to the last man Having taken and ransacked the Town with two small Castles for fear abandoned he thought good to enter no farther till he had chased out Aladeules who fearing his own estate hearing Selimus was come soon raised a great Army for his defence purposing to do as formerly Wherefore Selimus leaving a Garrison at Ciamassum retired to Antitaurus where his enemies were reported to lay Aladeule's people were fierce and warlike who could profit little by Husbandry yet bred Horses and Cammels in Pasture-bearing places but most of their living stood in hunting and stealing His chief City was Maras which may be thought so called from the fair River Marsias running thorow it out of the Mountain 〈◊〉 who seeing Selimus enter his frontiers brought down about 15000 Horsemen into a large Valley ordering his great store of Foot to keep the Mountains on the right and left there advantagiously expecting his coming Selimus considered the places disadvantage yet presuming on his strength and multitude commanded Sinan Bassa the Eunuch Generall of his European Horse in stead of Casan to charge the enemy afront with a square battel because of the places straightness himself with the Janizaries and Asian Horse following after Aladeule's Souldiers also fought valiantly in the head of the battel and having spent their Arrows stood close keeping the grounds advantage so repulsing the Turks old Souldiers that they seemed little or nought to prevail for they could not enclose them on either side and the Foot grievously wounding the Turks from the sides of the Hills with darts and Arrows Selimus seeing such strong resistance contrary to expectation sent some Harquebusiers to relieve their Fellows and the Janizaries at that instant to mount the Hill The Aladeulians terrified with the shot fled into the Mountains and Woods fast by yet the most slaughter was of the Foot who the Horse being fled and the Janizaries coming up the Hills did with much difficulty by steep and broken wayes clamber up the Mountains as surprized with sudden fear the Turks killed them to the going down of the Sun the swift Horsemen retiring into further and stronger places with little losse Aladeules thinking it now best to protract the Warre as the Turks pursued him burning the Cottages he fled from Mountain to Mountain not offering battel but in advantagious places wherefore Selimus fearing want of Victual or intrapping on the 7th day left off the pursuit and himself conveniently encamping sent Sinan carrying Victuals with him with all speed and policy to hunt after the King himself And the while inquiring of the Captives of Aladeules strength c. found he had taken with him his best Horse and Foot commanding the people to forsake the Villages to leave all desolate and intrenching himself on a strong Rock with store of Provision resolved not to give battel till he had drawn them where their multitude should little avail but to increase their Iosse also they said he feared to be betrayed by Alisbeg General of his Horse who first fled for Aladeules had treacherously murdered his Father upon a suspition of his aspiring the Kingdom Selimus striking off their Irons laded them with gifts and promises and sent them to Alis to perswade him in so fit a time to revenge his Fathers death which if he should perform by some notable exploit he should have both credit with him and the Kingdom these imparting the matter to Sinan he soon wrought with Alis pricked on with desire of a Kingdom and Selimus his rewards that he went over to Sinan with a great part of the best Horsemen whereby the rest for rewards came all by degrees over to the Bassa Aladeules thus unexpectedly circumvented reposed his hope in secret flight but they pursuing him as he fled hiding himself at last drew him out of a Cave betrayed by the Peasants and being brought to Selimus was in few dayes put to death and his head in derision carried about afterwards thorow lesser Asia then sent to the Venetians as a witness of his Victory Selimus reduced all his Kingdom into a Province of 3 parts to every part a Sanzack Alisbeg to be chief over the rest wanting nothing of a King but the name only And leaving Sinan there commanded him after he
born the King's eldest Son The young Tyrant was presently about to murther 〈◊〉 his own hands his youngest brother but 18 months old Moses a Bassa requested him rather to commit the 〈◊〉 thereof to some other which thing Mahomet commanding him to do he taking it from the Nurse strangled it with water Spondertius his Daughter in her rage reviling the Tyrant to his face c. He requesting her to be contented for that it stood with policy said she should have whatsoever she asked But she desiring to have Moses her Son's executioner delivered to her bound presently struck him in the breast with a knife crying in vain for help and cutting a hole in his side cut out and cast his Liver by piece-meal to the dogs He also caused another Brother in Caly Bassa's keeping to be murthered Presently after he began to abrogate and alter the old Lawes and Customs publishing new better fitting his own humour imposing also new Taxes and Subsidies on his Subsects and was through avarice thought over-sparing in apparel and diet He calling all great Officers to streight account put some to death confiscated the goods greatly fined or quite removed from Office others He admitted also false and surmized accusations against his Bassa's little mercy was to be looked for whereby he was exceedingly feared of his Subjects but more hated Of 7000 Faulconers and not many fewer Huntsmen that were maintained of the Kings charge saying He would not be such a fool to maintain such a multitude to attend on so meer a vanity he ordered 500 Faulconers only and 100 Huntsmen the rest to serve in wars Then also he entred League with Constantine Emperour of Constantinople and the other Greek Princes as also with the Despot his Grandfather as some will yet some write the Despots Daughter was but his Mother in Law whom he sent again to her Father allowing her a Princely Dowry Ibrahim King of Caramania took occasion the first year of his Reign to invade him in Asia with fire and sword Mahomet displacing Isa his Lievetenant there as unsufficient appointed Isaac Bassa in his room who passing into Asia raised a great Army After whom Mahomēt following with a greater he entred with great hostility into Caramania whose King fleeing into the great Mountains offered him such conditions of peace whereof he accepted which being by Oath confirmed he returned to Prusa where the presuming Janizaries came in order of battel and demanded a Donative as a reward of their good service who inwardly chafing yet having warning by Abedin Bassa and Turechanbeg he for the present dissembled his anger scattering ten great baggs of Aspers among them But few daies after he 〈◊〉 Doganes their chief Captain to be shamefully whipt discharging him of his Office and so likewise used he the under Captains a punishment usually inflicted on the King 's least displeasure upon any man if not a natural Turk Presently after 〈◊〉 Isaac against the Prince of Caria he was driven out of his Country which hath ever since remained subject to the Turkish Kings Mahomet determining to return to Hadrianople with his Army was advertized he could not passe Hellespontus Straits without manifest danger wherefore taking his way through that part of Bythinia lying above Constantinople passing over at the Castle Accechisar standing on Bosphorus Strait in Asia being got over and encamping by the Sea side he began to build a great Castle near Propontis directly over against the other Castle and assembling all workmen possible his 〈◊〉 working also it was sooner perfected than was by any at first expected which for greatness is of most Writers reputed a City named Genichisar Neocastron and 〈◊〉 built as for the Turks safe passage to and fro so to hinder the Christians passage thorow those narrow Straits and to distresse Constantinople but 5 miles distant The rich Trade which the Venetian Genoan and Constantinopolitan Merchants had to Cassa and other places on the Euxine were hereby almost cut off to the great hinderance of those 〈◊〉 Mahomet ambitious thinking nothing more answerable to his conceits than to attempt Constantinople the Greek Empires utter subversion and grieving at that goodly Citie 's commodious Situation and not at his disposing and the Emperour 's small power with the other Christian Princes discord ministring no small hope of success made great preparation all the Winter both by Sea and Land to be ready against Spring none certainly knowing whither he would imploy the same Constantinus then Emperour of a mild and soft Spirit hearing hereof prepared according to his own small ability also earnestly craved aid of other Christian Princes But they being at variance all his Suit was vain Nicolas the 5th Bishop of Rome Alphonsus King of Naples and the State of Venice promised him 30 Galleys but none came The Emperour made stay of certain Ships and Galleys of Venice Genua c. Then also Johannes Justinianus a Genuan adventurer came to Constantinople with two tall Ships and 400 Souldiers where being entertained he was made the Emperour's Lievtenant General 6000 entertain'd Greeks with 3000 Venetians c. made stay of joyned to the Citizens was all the defence for his Empire The Turk had a great Army of 300000 ready against Spring most out of Bulgaria Servia c. either indeed Christians or else 〈◊〉 to these were joyned divers out of Germany Bohemia and Hungary This enforcing and alluring Christians against Christians hath not been the least means of the Turks greatnesse His effeminate Asians natural Turks and Janizaries were mingled these last the fewest yet commanding all Mahomet encamping April 9. 1453 before Constantinople filled he Land from Bosphorus Sea side unto the place where it compassing the City on two parts makes a goodly haven betwixt Constantinople and Pera. This City anciently called Bizantium is in form of a Triangle situated in Europe in the pleasant Countrey of 〈◊〉 on a point of the main Land shooting out towards Asia called of Pliny 〈◊〉 Solinus the promontory Chrysoceras where the Sea Propontis joyneth unto 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which divideth Asia from Europe called in ancient time Bosphorus Thracius c. and about 200 years past or more St. George's arm It was first built by Pausanias the 〈◊〉 King flourishing till the Civil Wars between Severus the Emperour and Niger when it enduring 3 years siege of the Romans under 〈◊〉 yielded not till the Citizens did eat one another the walls were overthrown the City destroyed and brought to the state of a poor Country Village given by Severus to the Pyrinthians until Constantine the Great new built and beautified it translating his Imperial Seat thither calling it New Rome and that part of Thracia along the Sea Coast Romania But the founders name so prevailed that it was and is called Constantinople or constantine's-Constantine's-City The longest side running from North-East to South-West is commonly reputed 8 miles long The other side East and West 5 miles washed with the Haven more than 8
where refreshing and new victualling they putting to Sea landed in Asia whom the Country Turks encountring they put them to flight pillaging for four dayes store of rich booty especially Turkie Carpets thence sailing to Halicarnassus a part of Caria they took a wondrous spoil there comming to them the Bishop of Modrussa with twenty Gallies from the Pope joyfully welcomed also two Gallies from the great Rhodian Master With these 85 Gallies they sailed to the Isle Samos over against Ephesus then desolate to consult of further proceeding Loosing thence they landed at Attalia the Metropolis of Pamphilia of great Traffique in whose Suburbs finding store of rich Commodities from Aegypt and Syria taking what pleased them they burnt the rest with the Suburbs and beginning to besiege the City not without great losse to be taken they departed and running along Pamphylia burning and destroying they returned to Rhodes where meeting an Ambassador from Usun-Cassanes for great Ordnance they understood by him that his Master was preparing against the Turk Mahomet the while no lesse requiting the Venetians for Scanderbeg being dead he much prevailed on the Princes of Epirus and Albania c. but the Fleet from Rhodes landed in the Myndians Countrey returning to the Isle Naxos with great spoil whence Ferdinand's Galleys the year farre spent returned home with much spoil but Mocenicus with the Legate returning into Asia took Smyrua with its spoyl setting it on fire much hurting also about Clazomene not farre off So laden with Asia's spoils Mocenicus returned to Modon and the Legate into Italy Mohomet through the insatiable desire of Soveraignty had not long before under pretence of a friendly parley circumvented the King of Mysia cruelly putting him to death and subduing his Kingdom slew all of his bloud Then invading Caramania where Pyramet and 〈◊〉 reigned he drove them both out Pyramet fleeing to Usun-Cassaues Cassanbet seeking to recover his Inheritance was besieging some Towns on the Sea-coast which taken would draw in all the rest of the Kingdom who requesting Mocenicus now on Cilicia's coast he landing some Companies and great Artillery under Victor So battered Sichinum's walls that the Turks yielding it up he delivered it to Cassambet also Corycus which he took then besieging Seleucia upon 〈◊〉 about five miles from the Sea the Governour discouraged at the great Artillery delivered it to Victor who restored it to Cassambet who thus re-brought into his Kingdom much thanked the Admiral promising himself and Brother to be alwayes the Venetians friends Mocenicus departing harried all along the Sea-coast of Lycia sailing also into Cyprus to appease an insurrection against the Queen left to the Venetians protection by her dead Husband which he 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 appointed Admiral being come into Peloponesus he hastning thither to give up his charge returned to Venice About which time Usun Cassanes who of a small Prince was accounted amongst the greatest Monarchs theu living began to warre upon Mahomet He was the Sonne of Tachretin who with other poor Princes were exiled by Bajazet the first his violence and was again restored by Tamerlane Usun Cassanes obtaining a small territory in Armenia by Tachretin's death Wherefore not contented he wrung one province from this Prince another from that and thrusting some quite out of all thus soone getting a great part of Armenia into his hands So that Calo Joannes the Trapezond Emperour whose style exceeded his power fearing Mahomets greatnesse gave him Despina his onely Daughter in Marriage agreeing that Usun Cassanes after Calo's death and of David his Brother should in his Wives right enjoy Pontus Despina freely to exercise her Christian Religion by whom he had a Daughter Martha Mother of Hysmael the Sophi Usun Cassanes now ceasing not daily to encroach at length began to lay hold on part of the Persian Kings Dominion in Armenia Zenza then reigning in Persia in a sort commanded Usun not to come within the bounds of his Dominion threatning otherwise to turn his forces upon him wherewith Usun offended commanded the Ambassadours speedily to depart and tell their Master he would shortly come and debate the matter with him face to face The Persian King moved set forward an Army thought sufficient to subdue a sar greater Prince Usun Cassanes though he had scarce one man to 10 searing nothing set forward by great journeys to meet them and with whom joyning 〈◊〉 after a long and cruel fight overthrew them with a great slaughter Zenza raising a far greater Army the very strength of his Kingdome set 〈◊〉 in person and joyning battell with Usun the Persians were againe put to flight more being slaine than were in the first Army he slaying Zenza with his own hand and taking Cariasuphu's Son Prisoner whom to please the Persians he honoured with the Title of King calling himself the Persian Protector But having under colour of a peaceable Governour gotten the Regall City Tauris with the rest he secretly dispatching the titular King the last of Tamerlaines posterity took on himself the highest place Mahomet the while having scornfully rejected his Ambassadours and presents and flaine David the Trapezond Emperour his aliance turning Pontus into a Turkish Province which Usun Cassanes of right claimed after Usun was surely seated through the remembrance of the former injuries suggested by 〈◊〉 and the Venetian's solicitation he raising a great Army and passing toward Pontus was nigh Euphrates encountred by Mustapha Mahomets eldest Son and Amurath the Romanian Bassa whom Mahomet had sent out of Europe to joyne with Mustapha who were by Usun Cassanes over-thrown Amurath with 30000 Turks being shine Mustapha and the rest saving themselves by flight Mahomet being exceedingly troubled therear leavied a mighty Army of 320000 men Usun Cassanes Army being nothing in number inferiour which two Mahometans meeting neer Armenia's Mountaines at the first encounter a Turkish Bassa was slaine with 40000 Turks wherewith Mahomet was so daunted that he had retired had not some of his most valiant Captaines sharply reproved him c who now withdrew his Army into a straite between two Mountains fortifying the front with his Carriages behind which were his Ordnance on either side of his Archers The Persians encouraged comming on without fear were all ere they were aware on the mouth of the Turks Artillery which breaking their ranks took away a number of them Besides the Persian Horses through the unacquainted report of the Ordnance were not to be ruled wherefore Mahomet fiercely charged them with his Horsemen being by themselves now out of order yet the Persians slew many Turks but they were at last forced to flee wherein a great number were slain and their Tents taken whose flight Usun's eldest Sonne labouring to stay was slain forty thousand Turks not above one thousand Persians fell Mahomet contented with this dear-bought Victory returned homewards and Usun leaving another Sonne with his Army to defend Armenia to Tauris But 〈◊〉 the Christian Princes expected the event of these Warres they
now turning withstood their enemies at which instant those in ambush came down the hill with such violence and clamour that the Venetians being on every side beset were all slain except a few who yielded themselves Many also of the other two battalions being in flight slain The Count himself and Sonne with half the Horsemen were lost The Turks encouraged spoiled all Friuli betwixt Sontium and Tiliaventum So burning the Country that 100 Villages were to be seen on a light fire at once So laden with spoil driving before them great numbers of Captives they returned to Sontium and passing the River that all thought them to be quite gone they returning passed the River Tiliaventum no lesse harming on that side than before on the other So returning the way they came This overthrow being accounted among the greatest they received from the Turks Next year about Harvest 1478. they passing Sontium came before the Forrs with a far greater power offering to draw Fortebrachius into the field but he wary stood on his Guard expecting to take them at advantage wherefore the Turks durst not disperse for spoil So going about 4 miles they turning up into part of the Alps towards Germany grievously spoiled those people strangely passing those abrupt and high Mountains with their Horses then returning home another way about Mahomet determining once more to engage his whole forces for the winning of Scodra gave order both in Europe and Asia for assembling his best Souldiers seldom or never having a stronger Army first he sent Aly-beg with 80000 Achanzij towards Scodra who are Horsemen that having Lands for life from the King are bound to serve on their own charge as forerunners when he besiegeth a place who burning and spoiling till they come to the appointed place may depart or stay when all the Army is come Scodra's Governour fortifying night and day provided all necessaries for a long siege sending forth the aged c. into safer places and taking in many able men about the Countrey among whom were many Marriners or others who got their living on the River and lake of Scodra The Mountains North from the City the while shining with fires and the smoak drawing nearer and nearer soon after the Countrey people with what they could carry came running to the Cities by the Sea side crying out The Turks were come And next day May 14. Aly Beg with his Achanzij encamped in the Suburbs that none could go in or out Scander-Beg Governour of Bosna and Malcotius the Majesty of whose countenance and resplendent beames of his eyes were of such piercing brightness that none was able with fixed eye long to behold them with 7000 Horse joyning unto him of which Horsemen the Christians with often sallies and shot slew many with little or no losse Ten dayes after came Taut Bassa of Constantinople with 25000 men and about 12000 Came's most laden with metall to make Ordnance c. whose stately Purple-Tent was pitch'd on a hill where Solyman had layn about 4 years before his Army encamping between that and the Town Taut was born in Epirus of mean Parentage and for his wit and activity was thus promoted and suspected he would have aspired the Empire Whilest the great Ordnance were casting the Bassa made a great Bridge over the River to passe at pleasure The busied Christians the while were so vigilant that no Turk stirred within shot but he was slain June 13. Mustapha Viceroy of Asia came with 30000 Asians to the Siege personable men but not accounted so good Souldiers as the Europeans whose rich green Pavilion was pitched in a Vineyard about a mile from the Town Mustapha propounding a reward to whomsoever durst touch the Cities walls two Souldiers well mounted hastening thither were both slain from the wall one of whose bodies being recovered by a salley his Head was set on a Launce upon the Wall 's top June 15. 5600 Janizaries comming to the Camp the Bassaes wellcommed them with a wondrous shout 3. dayes after came two other great men with many followers desiring safely to speak with the Governour and Captains of the City Which granted the Elder after setting forth his Master's power and what he had done to others perswaded them to yield assuring them of all kind usage with rich rewards otherwise to expect nought but extreme misery and death in whose name Pagnanus answered They feared not Mahomets greatness c. that he should find it hard to enforce them impossible to perswade them c. concluding they should expect no answer to any such motion hereafter but from the Cannons mouth At this time Croia having held out a yeares siege for lack of Victuals was yielded to the Turk on condition that the hunger-starv'd defendants might safely depart at pleasure who not withstanding put them all to the sword the Scodrians being much grieved but not discouraged thereat The Watermen comming often down the River by night and much hurting the Camp they builded some Gallies to keep them in who yet stealing on them much troubled 〈◊〉 who June 22 mounting 2 great Ordnance on the 〈◊〉 hill one carrying a stone Bullet of 300 l. the other of 400 battered the Town four dayes then planting a third piece at the Hills foot bearing a bullet of 400 l. and next day they planted a 4th piece about the middle of the Hill carrying 650 weight The while came 8000 Asapi into the Campe and shortly after came Mahomet with all his Army to the River Drinon where the two Bassaes pompously met him Who July 2 comming to the Campe after viewing Scodra's Scituation is reported to have said O what a stately place hath the Eagle chosen to build her nest and hatch her young ones in Round about his divers rich Tents lay the Janizaries whereinto was but one entrance most strongly guarded about the Janizaries all the rest of the Army encamped and still more resorting daily thither it was deemed Mahomet to have in all 350000 men Against which terrour the defendants were notably encouraged by one Bartholmew who being somtimes Scanderbegs Souldier was become a Preacher July the 5th the Turks mounted two other great pieces one like the former but the other discharging a 1200 pound shot being called the Prince's piece and wherewith the Turks had from the beginning threatned the besieged Next day a 7th piece carrying 550 pound was planted on the same Bassaes Mount they casting in Fire-balls out of Morter-pieces by night to fire the City but divers Citizens uncovering their houses and by men watching the fall of the fire works c the Enemie's device took no effect Then also they casting huge stones out of short Mortar-pieces which falling from on high crushed what ever they lighted on wondrously troubled the defendants Few dayes after they mounting three other piece's one was bigger then the Prince's carrying 1300 weight So battering the City daily with 10 such pieces as hath been seldome heard of Arrowes falling like haile showers
dishonour to men of courage c. And if they should thence depart who doubted but the enemy out of revenge and having lost what he had would prey upon theirs more miserably captivating their Wives and Children than himself was now in bondage wherefore he advised them to continue till they attained the end of their desires And if there were no necessity yet the eyes of all Nations chiefly the Christians being on them when they should hear they could not endure the field one Winter would call 〈◊〉 Summer Birds c If the Graecians for a strumpet besieged Troy ten years ' should not the Turks vexed and oppressed 214 years endure one winters siege that 〈◊〉 and thirst hath vanquished impregnable Cities as it shall do Rhodes telling them there was a secret mischief 〈◊〉 against it which might not in that open audience be published Though many thought this was spoken out of policy and the cold courages of the Souldiers were little moved yet in regard of duty with an expectation of the secret they departed at least in shew content to endure all difficulties Achimetes daily assailing the Vanmures of the Avergne station not very high at length obtained them desperately keeping the place till more help ran in who speedily clapt up a strong covering like a Pent-house betwixt the wall and the Vanmure easie to do the ditches there being filled so high that the slankers could not scoure them nor the Defendants without danger come to cast any thing down from the walls so that the Rhodians overtaken with a sudden mischief were first heavily silenced then breaking out into pittiful out-cries The Turks under their Pent-house laboured to dig up the walls foundation and Prejanes what might be threw down fire scalding Oil c. upon them who shrinking away for fear and being beaten forward by their Commanders and fresh men still thrust on the fatal work begun Octob. 7th went forward apace The Asapi were imployed in this work who oft serve to fill Town-ditches for the Janizaries to passe over upon shoring it up as they wrought with Timber then firing it hoping to overthrow the wall which not sorting as not being enough undermined they tryed to pull it down with hooks and ropes but the Ordnance soon put them off with great 〈◊〉 Achimetes disappointed doubted whether to give over or there to expect some better hap knowing the Tyrant measured all things by the event who understanding the wall to be sore shaken however planted his battery against the undermined part which falling down more and more the Rhodians laboured day and night to raise a new wall Solyman perswaded generally the City was that day to be taken or never determined another general assault proclaiming the Cities spoll to his men and briefly speaking to them that fortune having proved their courage and patience now offered them the reward of their pains c. that it was the time to end those mungrel-people of whom more were slain than left alive who he knew would resist not as daring but for 〈◊〉 wherefore they should revenge themselves and make them a woful example to posterity saying There was a fair breach wherein 30 Horsmen might enter nothing wanting but their courage The Souldiers encouraged chearfully promised to do their utmost threatning the Christians with horrible death and captivity the great shot the while flying thorow the breach beat down many Houses but the Countermure standing on a lower ground it seldom touched The Citizens were wondrously terrified with the ratling noise and thundring Women and Children lamenting and seeming forlorn the night following was more troublesom but the day dawning the Turks with glistering Ensigns and chearful with hope hasted to the breach with great outcries and songs setting down many Ensigns before Ambrose Gate deckt with Garlands in token of Victory their Fleet also made shew before the Haven as if it would assail the City on that side yet for all these extremities the Rhodians regarding no danger running by heaps to the walls opposed their bodies instead of battered walls propounding to each other the cruel death servitude and taunts if they fell into their enemies hands to be endured Achimetes fiercely assailed the breach the deadly fight being on both sides with great courage maintained the dismayd Matrons Maidens some in their Houses some in Temples with flouds of teares craved the Almighties help in that distress The Turks hoped to win the City if they did but a little strain themselves therefore for terrors sake gave terrible outcries the Rhodians accounting them as good as vanquished they having not yet prevailed and by whose invincible courage the Turks were forced to retire whom the Rhodians shouted at in derision who disdaining that they in number many should be so derided by a handful of men as good as 〈◊〉 returned with a more furious assault than at first and then had the City been taken had not the Turks been overwhelmed with shot out of their Barricadoes and flankers of the new walls more slaughter for the time was ever hardly seen wherefore Achimetes again retired leaving in the breach and Town-ditch 500 dead Turks many more dying afterwards of hurt received This was on Novemb. the last the Turkish Captains though not despairing of Victory resolved for no more notable assaults but by great Trenches to be made thorough the ruines to get into the City and with mattocks c. to overthrow the new wall and another 〈◊〉 without the same and the while to busie the Rhodians with skirmishes and Alarms This device served to more purpose than all done before for the multitude destroying the new Fortifications and creeping on further by degrees the Defendants were glad to pull down their Houses to make new ones lessening their City by new Trenches so that in short time they knew not which place to fortifie first for the enemy had gained almost 200 paces in breadth and 150 in length Soly man though cruel and assured of Victory yet Achimetes and Cassius perswa ding him nothing was better for enlarging his Empire than the fame of Clemency commanded Pyrrhus to try if they would by parley yield on reasonable conditions who sent one Monilia a Genoway to the Walls who craving safe conduct said He had somewhat to say tending to the good of the distessed City who being commanded to speak said He would in secret either by 〈◊〉 or Letters deliver his Message to one Matthias his Country-man a Citizen Fornovius a French cholerick Knight reported to have 〈◊〉 himself 500 Turks from Georges Tower moved to hear a motion of private conference bending his piece made him depart without doing his Message Many understanding the enemy had offered parley conceiving some hope of life requested Villerias to provide for the safety of his loving people c. most of whom left being wounded or sick saying they had proved their force and fortune wherefore he should beware left by too long consulting the enemy conceived
your Religion from accursed slavery averting the storm hanging over your own and childrens head The Hermit delivered these Letters at Rome to Pope Urban the second requesting his care for redresses of the Christians miseries seen at Jerusalem who calling a Councel at Claremont in France of 310 Bishops out of divers parts with Embassadors of all Countries propounded the same as a special matter where the Letters being read and the Christians miseries and teares being by the Hermit lively represented the whole Assembly was moved with compassion crying out Deus vult that is God willeth it which words were afterward much used in their expedition as a sign of their chearfulness this religious decreed war spreading in one daies space by flying fame so far as is hardly to be believed And by the effectual perswasion of the Father returned home were shortly seen about 300000 men with red Crosses on their breasts ready to spend life and goods for Religion and recovery of the holy Land under the commands of Godfrey Eustace and Baldwin Brothers of the house of Bulloin Great Hugh the French Kings brother Raimond Robert Earls of Flanders Robert of Normandy William the Conquerour's Son Stephen of Ualois Ademar the Popes Legate and Peter the Hermit many Princes being partakers of their travels though not of such charge One Gualter first set forward then the Hermit with 40000 who came at length thorow Germany Hungary and Bulgaria with labour and losse to Constantinople which weary travellers were afterwards shipped over Bosphorus into Asia by Alexius the Emperour marching encamping not far from Nice in Bythinia unto whom by reason of distrusting the expedition to be against himself through guilt of his usurpation they were not at first very welcome Godfrey with others followed the Hermits way Hugh the Legat and the French Commanders passed into Italy taking leave of the Pope unto whom Bohemud a Prince of Apulia joyning with 12000 they crossed the Adriatick from three several Ports Brundusium Bary and Hydruntum passing by land to Constantinople where they met with Godfrey with whom jealous Alexius better perswaded of their good meanings made a League to furnish them with all supplies though by him but slenderly performed for which he should receive all Countries except Jerusalem gained from the Turk and Saracens he transported them unto Asia but Bohemud from his Fathers grudg with Alexius came nor to Constantinople yet marched passed Hellespont sooner than was expected The Turks understanding what was growing on them out of Europe diligently sought to cut off Gualter Peters Army who had lyen two months about Nice expecting the other Princes whose Souldiers weary and somewhat pinched chose Raymond a Germane in a mutiny in Gualters room suspecting also Peter's prowess and therefore by quitting Exorgum a Town and sending out Cattel as a bait to train out the Christians winking at those who brought them into Exorgum slew asterwards full 3000 incouraged Christians to the discouragment of their chief Cómanders yet the Soldiers chose one Burel a new General 10000 rashly going out of Exorgum in revenge for forrage were almost all slain by the Turks who afterwards hardly besieging the town with famin sword consum'd most of them the Hermit with much ado defending the town Cinit whither he had 〈◊〉 til the Princes coming Solyman Cutlumuses his Son who was dead who had almost nullified the Hermit's forces was careful to withstand the great Army who removed from Nicomedia besieging Nice so called from Nicea the wife of King Lysimachus this City was yielded July 1097 after 50 daies siege defended by the Turks longer then was supposed new supplies coming to them by the lake Ascanius on the other side the Turks assayling the mean while the 〈◊〉 Camp were with great loss repulsed Solyman's wife and two children being taken prisoners the City was restored to Alexius Then the Christian Princes encamping on the fourth daies march by a river for refreshment news was brought to Bohemud of Solymans approach aided by the Persian Sultan with 60000 men to give the Christians battel who sending word to the other Princes for relief upon occasion the two Armies most terribly fought the Turks lying slain on heaps some of their horsemen breaking in the mean time into Bohemuds Camp among women and weak persons appalled the fighters but Bohemud withdrawing some Companies repulsed the enemy whose Souldiers he found at his return ready to flee from the Turks but his coming restored the battel The enemy with horsemen 〈◊〉 the Camp again Hugh seasonably coming with 30000 to rescue it whom a fresh Turkish reserve notably encountred At length after a terririble and doubtful fight the Turks gave ground retiring into the mountains 40000 being slain about 2000 Christians No enemy the next morning appearing they buryed their dead easily distinguished by their red crosses Solyman fleeing gave out he had the victory burning destroying or carrying away all as he went Bohemud and the Princes now marching through lesser Asia easily took Antiochia in Pisidia being courteously received by the Citizens of Iconium refreshing their Army But at their approach to Heraclea the Turks and Garrison souldiers fled the Christian Citizens gladly yielding themselves and City to their deliverers Here through the Turks fear not daring any where to abide their coming Baldwin and 〈◊〉 with part of the Army soon subdued Tarsus Edessa and Manussa Cities of Cilicia while the other part took the lesser 〈◊〉 and the Cities of 〈◊〉 and Socor in Cappadocia driving the Turks in every place out of lesser Asia and setting the oppressed Christians at liberty Of which Solyman sorely complained in Letters for aid unto Axan his Cousin Thus the Turks until by discord and ambition of the Greek Empire they again became dreadful this heat being over were glad to retire farther off being brought low in lesser Asia The Conquerours mounted over high Taurus possessing the City Maresia from whence the Turks had by night fled being first bound by oath not to return home till the accomplishment of that holy war While they 〈◊〉 here the Citizens of Artasia suddenly slaying all the Turks in Garrison received Robert Earl of Flanders with 1000 men that was sent to Summon it In revenge hereof the Turks sent 10000 out of Antioch unto Artasia 15 miles off who by stragling Companies drew the Flemings out of the City purposely fleeing from them and had not the Citizens relieved them they had surely perished by the Turks ambushments The Army marching forward encamped Octob. 21. 1097 before Antioch having passed the River 〈◊〉 on which this famous City is scituated Robert Duke of Normandy by a hard conflict making the Turks forsake the bridge where they thought to stay their passage the Covernour for the Persian Sultan of this Metrapolis of Syria called by the Hebrews Roblatha was Gassianus who had 7000 horse and 20000 〈◊〉 as defendants with great store of all necessary provisions 〈◊〉 incompassed
with a double Wall 460 Towers within it an impregnable Castle at its East-end with a deep Lake on the South side Many a fierce sally during the siege was made by the Turks 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 repulsed chiefly at the bridg made by the Christians with boats over the River for passage to and fro But at the beginning of February through the abundance of rain and scarcity of victuals whereby they eat their slain enemies their horses perishing for lack of meat Peter the Hermit author of this war and Bohemud's Nephew among others through these increasing miseries secretly withdrew to steal home who being taken and by Hugh sharply teproved were forced to take a new oath for their fidelity A great part of Arethusa's Garrison being cur off by Bohemud the Countrey was more open for distressed Souldiers relief until a great number of Turks about Aleppo and Damasco came to relieve the besieged who by the Christians were put to flight 2000 being slain taking store of victuals c. and setting the Turks heads on stakes before the City Whereupon Cassianus having lost his eldest Son herein and expecting relief from the Sultan requested a truce for a time which being by the Turks slaying one 〈◊〉 a French-man broken a fresh and more hard siege began The Governour had in 9 months space lost so many that he used one Pirrhus amongst divers Christian Citizens for the guarding of a Tower who by secret intelligence and easy conditions made with Bohemud let his Souldiers by night into the City which was recovered June 1098 about 10000 men women and children were put to the sword amongst whom many Christians by the furious Souldiers many Turks fled into the Castle and the fleeing Governour was slain by Christians in the mountains of Armenia Amongst other Letters speedily certifying this joyful news Bohemud wrote to Roger his Brother Prince of Apulia shewing how it was yielded unto himself by Pyrrhus and how few daies after he was in danger by a wound received at Aretum that was assaulted by them assuring Roger both of the valour and esteem he and the Army had of his Son Tancred The Venetians likewise at the time of the siege with 200 Galleys having the upper hand of the Turks by Sea at the Rhodes set at liberty 5000 souldiers save 30 chief Commanders and sayling into Ionia took Smyrna spoyling Lycia Pamphilia and Cilicia Corbanas also the Persian Sultan's Lievtenant now besteged Edessa intending to relieve Antioch which was defended by Baldwin whereof he had intelligence by the Son of Cassianus after he had raised that siege keeping on his way with a mighty Army resolving to hazard the fortune of a battle The Turks still possessing the Castle Corbanas sent some supplies into it which sallied out on the Earl of Tholouse who was left to keep them into the Castle while Corbanas fought with the Christians in the field so that within and without the City was a dreadfull fight and bloody slaughter but the Turks gave ground and fled above 10000 of them being slain and about 4000 Christians leaving rich prey besides Horses and other beasts the Castle also surrendring the next day June 28. Alexius the Emperour unto whom this City should according to agreement have been delivered guilty of neglect sending the Princes no relief all the siege refused to accept of it so that Bohemud was chosen Prince or King of Antioch At Autumn there was a plague in the Army of which 50000 are said to have dyed which ceasing in November Rugia and Albaria two Cities were by force taken where Raymund envying Bohemud's preferment dissented with him who for the Cause's sake retired to Antioch At Spring Raymund besieging Tripolis from some fortunate roads made on the enemies last Winter insolently maligned Bohemud's proceedings who had besieged Tortosa Bohemud considering 't was enough to divide all Christians rose with his Army and retired to Antioch After which Gabella was taken and Tortosa whither Godfrey and Raymund from Tripolis came after 3 〈◊〉 siege departed spoiling about 〈◊〉 passing by 〈◊〉 and keeping Whitsontide at Casarea marched to and from Rama And upon the first descry of Jerusalem there were piercing and rending shouts for joy some lifting up eys and hands to Heaven calling on Christ others kissing the ground and saluting those so much heard of holy places Every one as at the end of long travel expressing some joy This ancient and famous City being utterly destroyed by Vespatian and his son 〈◊〉 40 years after Christs death lay buried in its ruins till about the year 136 it was by Aelius Adrianus Emperour re-edified who in part changed its scituation enclosing the place of Christs suffering and burial within the City walls and calling it Aelia after his own name giving it first to the Jews who were afterwards for rebellion thrust out and then gave it to the Christians in time also recovering the ancient name Jerusalem who under several idolatrous and persecuting Emperours endured grievous things peace being about 320 given to the afflicted by Constantine the Great Whereby for 300 years they flourished under Greek Emperours till usurping Phocas by killing Maurice and his Children occasioned Cosroes King of Persia to invade Syria taking Jerusalem and killing almost 100000 Christians in revenge of his Father in Law who about 624 was again driven out of it by Heraclius that succeeded Phocas cruelly slain by his Guard Which 〈◊〉 not paying a warlike people of Arabia Deserta that had helped him against Cosroes calling them vile Dogs because they had lately received Mahomet's Doctrine caused them to revolt and joyn to the Caliphs extending 〈◊〉 doctrine and Soveraignty over all Aegypt and Syria taking Jerusalem The Greek Emperours being overcome by the Saracens left Syria in their possession for which they had divers years conflicted who for 370 years oppressed the Christians leaving a 3d part of Jerusalem to them with Christs Sepulchre and mount Zion for profits sake untill the vagrant andcruel Turks start up and aspiring Persia's kingdom subdue Mesopotamia Syria most of the lester Asia and all 〈◊〉 The Saracens Government being but light unto the Christians in respect of their Thraldome under the Turks and had not these Princes who were now come to 〈◊〉 been stirred up for release of these miseries none could have been expected The Princes lay encamped before the North and West of Jerusalem in order Bohemud being at Antioch and Baldwin at Edessa 〈◊〉 with the Germans and Lorrainers lying next the City whose Governour had a very strong Garrison with all necessaries for a long siege on the 5 day they fiercely assaulted it but for want of enough scaling-ladders t was supposed they gave over few daies after they most terribly assaulted it on both sides afresh untill by reason of fervent heat and want of water all the wells expect Siloe being poyfoned they retired into their Trenches A fleet of Genowaies now arriving at Joppa knowing themselves too weak for the Aegyptian Sultans
taken Jadera was ready to be embarqued for Syria But prince Alexius had so wrought especially with Pope Innocent III. Philip the Emperour and the French King that they commended both him and his cause by Letters and Messengers to the Army Who comming to Jadera with this commendation was received as an Emperour's son recommending himself as a poor exiled Prince to their protection of a lively Spirit c. and being instructed by the Noble Greeks in all things for his purose he fitted divers Nations in the Army with motives most prevalent with them Promising to pay the mony that the French had borrowed for this War To the Venetians recompence for all injuries received from the Greek Emperours chiefly Emmanuell To the Pope and Italians he and his Nobles had promised the Greek Church should alwaies acknowledge the Supremacy of Rome which made the Pope by all means to further Alexius his cause alledging that the Greeks Latines difference in opinion caused that the Mahometans were not long ago by united forces subdued And promised large rewards to all that took his part These forces for the Christians relief in Syria were hereby converted against the Greek Empire to the Turks grean advantage who had he been charged home by the Christians as by the Tartars might easily have been suppressed The Commanders of the Army thought best to march directly to Constantinople giving out thorough all Greek Cities manned against them that they purposed not to war against the Grecians but to restore their lawfull Emperor And seeing antient Greece had appointed rewards and honours for their deliverers from Tyrants they should the more favourably intreat them So embarquing their Army and entring the streights of Bosphorus Thracius they anchored even in the face of the City with 240 tall ships 60 Galleys 70 of burden 120 victuallers the streight seeming rather a Wood than part of the Sea They lay thus a while attending if on their sight any tumult might arise in the City But the Tyrant had provided that the Citizens favouring Alexius durst not stir in his quarrel Embassadours now came from Crete yielding that Island to the young Prince which he gave to Montferrat to encourage others in hope of recompence Alexius had made fast the Haven between Constantinople and Pera with a great chain manning it with 20 Galleys but the General sent the Eagle a swift the strongest ship in the Fleet who sailing with a full gale brake the chain thus gaining the Haven the Greeks left their Galleys to the Venetians Lascaris the Emperour's son in Law was ready with a select company to hinder the Latines landing who running on Land the Foot for the Horses could not so soon land leaped out of their ships in a moment laying about the mounted Greeks like mad men The Citizens expecting the event of this hot skirmish 60000 Greeks bravely sallied out of the City and made the battle doubtfull yet in fine the Greeks retired into the City guessing the losse by Alexius with Lascaris and a few others secretly with a masse of treasure hidden by his daughter Irene Abbesse of a Nunnery the next night fleeing The Constantinopolitans next morning taking Isaac out of Prison saluted him again Emperour and opened the Gates to the Latines calling them the Revengers of their liberty and their Emperour's Life and Majesty requesting to see young Alexius so long desired so saving the City that time from saccage The old Emperour and his son in the imperiall seat gave most hearty thanks to the Latine Princes and though his sight could not be restored yet he acknowledged they restored his Life Liberty Empire Country and Son confirming whatsoever his son had promised them and that he would content them better if they were not therewith contented not being able to render answerable Rewards to their deserts And consulting about means to satisfy them that the Citizens might more willingly do what was to be commanded he intreated the Latines as they did to retire out of the City But what every man was to pay being set down it seemed to the Greeks most intolerable Isaac being brought out of a stinking Prison through the sudden change of aire and manner of living dyed in this very instant The Constantinopolitans grievously exclaimed at this exaction all in generall saying and the Nobles in assemblies grievously complaining that it was a villanous thing for the Empire by a boy to be made bare unto a covetous and proud Nation that the rich Isle Creet was given to the Latines that the Greek Church was constrained to submit to the See of Rome from which it was happily freed since the translation of the Empire thither by Constantine the Great whereupon a Tumult was raised The armed people furiously ran to the Pallace purposing to commit some outrage on the young Emperor to whom without stay he shewing himself above promised to doe nothing without their advice and liking appeasing the tumult with these good words But the Emperour burning with desire of revenge and thinking himself more bound to keep promise with the Latines for he could not satisfy both he sent secretly to Montferrat to send him certain souldiers about midnight assuring him to receive them in by a Gate nigh the Pallace Of this Alexius Duc as sirnamed Murzufle from his bettle Browes was not ignorant whose aspiring mind took this occasion and the night following raised a tumult not inferiour to the former comming suddenly to the Emperour as if he had no hand in it and told him with a sad countenance that the people especially of his Guard were in an uproar comming to do him violence for his love to the Latines The terrified Emperour demanded of him what was best to do in the case He embraceing him in his Gown led him by a secret door into a Tent in the Court and departing as to appease the tumult he was in bonds clapt into a close stinking prison as the Traytour before had ordered The Traytour now made an Oration to the people shewing his compassion to the Greeks and their Empire and in that they were governed by a Youth mislead by the Latines pleasure That 't was high time for the City and Empire to look about them since 't was sold by its Preservers that they needed one who loved his Country before the Latines had extinguished their name The windy people cried out with applause That none but he was to be Chief of the Commonweal Others to have him made Generall of all forces the greatest cry was to have him made Emperour who by general consent was forthwith chosen and proclaimed Who was of nothing more careful then to break the Latines forces which he feared attempting first by Galleys filled with pitch to burn the Venetians fleet who not unacquainted with such devices and wary by keeping themselves from each other avoided the same He now to colour the matter sent Messengers to Dandalus the General that it was done by the peoples malice
Son Aladine 2d who united the divided Kingdom paying also tribute to the Tartar Aladine did not much yet the Tartar's power began in his time to decline he was of a quiet spirit and a great friend to Othoman But he dying without issue Sahib his chief Couusellor aspired to the Kingdom which he could neither long hold or deliver to his posterity for many of the Nobility envying at his honour laid hold some on one Country some on another erecting greater or lesser Satrapies and absolutely commanding over so much as by strong hand they could hold Wherein they shared so well for themselves that Sahib was shortly thrust out of all and the Turks Kingdom in lesser Asia become an Anarchy The greatest sharer herein was Caraman Alusirius who took to himself Iconium the Regal Seat with all Cilicia c. and Antioch upon Meander All which was afterward of him called Caramania whose successours strove long with the Othoman Sultans for soveraignty till by the greatness of the Othoman Empire theirs with all the rest were swallowed up Next to him was 〈◊〉 or Sarchan of whom Joma Maritima is yet called 〈◊〉 The most part of Lydia c. fell to Calamus and his Son 〈◊〉 called of him Carasia Aidin possessed most of ancient Misia c. of him called Aidinia Some part of Pontus with diverse Cities near the Euxine and Paphlagonia fell to the Sons of 〈◊〉 or Amar but is commonly called Bolli of a City there so named as was 〈◊〉 so called from the City Mendos or 〈◊〉 To prosecute all Toparchies nlesser Asia were tedious It sufficeth for shewing the Turks Anarchy and their Kingdoms ruin there to remember these All those that shared the Aladinian Kingdom were of the better sort of Turks who under the Selzuccian and Aladinian Sultans driven out of Persia had here seated themselves amongst whom most Writers reckon Othoman for one but he held no more of Aladin's Kingdom than one poor Lordship called Suguta in Bythinia before given to his Father for his good service with other small holds as himself gained from his weak Christian neighbours For he was not of the Selzuccian family as were the rest but of another Tribe and therefore they envied the sudden rising of this Oguzian Turk being as it were a meer stranger to them whose fortune for all that they seemed to fear as dangerous in time wherein they were not deceived But more being to be said of him hereafter we leave him with the rest unto their 〈◊〉 So concluding this part of our general History The LIVES of the Othoman KINGS and EMPEROURS faithfully gathered out of the best Histories both Ancient and Modern and digested into one continuate History The Rising of the Great and Mighty Empire of the Turks under Othoman first Founder thereof With his Life and doings THe foundation of this so great a Kingdom and now an Empire was first laid by valiant Othoman or Osman not descended of the Selzuccian Family but of the 〈◊〉 Tribe in whose Line it hath for 303 years wonderfully flourished and so yet at this day under Mahomet 3. But seeing he and the Othoman Kings and Emperours took their beginning from this warlike Othoman with whose life and doings we purpose to begin this part of our History it shall not be amisse a little farther to fetch his race and descent also When the Turks Kingdom flourished in Persia in the Selzuccian Princes there was another small one at the City Marchan over which reigned one Solyman at the same time that the Tartars under old Zingis bare down all before them and overthrowing the Turks Kingdom at Balch in Persia drave them with their King Cursumes out of their Countrey they reigning 172 years from Tangrolipix Solyman was of the Oguzian Tribe a family famous also among the Turks who seeing 〈◊〉 beaten out and Babylons Caliph overthrown thought good by speedy flight with such as would follow him to provide for his safety and in hope of like fortune with Aladin 〈◊〉 of the Selzuccian Family who by force had honourably seated himself in Romania 〈◊〉 and accounting all well gotten from the Christians took his way after him and coming to the City 〈◊〉 seated himself with many followers thereabouts who as the Tartar Nomades still removed up and down their tents and carts feeding their cattle as do the 〈◊〉 Nation in many parts of Asia at this day being not only called Nomades that is Heards-men as the Janizaries will often call the greatest Turks in contempt but Hamaxophetie and Hamaxobii that is people carried or living in Carts Solyman staying a while there removed to Amasia where by spoyling encountring the 〈◊〉 in field and seazing on their Towns 〈◊〉 had subdued a large Territory at length having lost a great number and wearied the rest fearing also with the small power left he could not keep that already gotten he thought best to seek better Fortune elsewhere It was now rifely reported the Tartars fury was well abated in Persia wherefore Solyman resolved to visit his native 〈◊〉 So passing thorow Syria he seized on Ziabercala Castle there staying for refreshment Afterwards setting foreward he came to the River Euphrates but finding no meanes to get over he stood still as dismayed Solyman in this perplexity 〈◊〉 taking the River to find passage adventuring too far was with the streams force carried away and with his horse drowned Whose body at length found was buried by his people 〈◊〉 Ziaber Castle Some of whom seated themselves thereabouts The rest went some to the 〈◊〉 of Arabia and Syria called the Damascene Turcomans others returned into Romania of whom are the Turcomans of Iconium and Anatolia who yet wander up and down in manner of their Ancestors Solyman left 4 sons Sentur Token 〈◊〉 Ertogrul the Father of Othoman and Dunder Ertogrul and Dunder marching along Euphrates came to Pasin 〈◊〉 where with 400 families they 〈◊〉 with tents and carts Sentur and Iundogdis returned passing the River into Persia where we leave them Ertogrul c. had divers conflicts with the people thereabouts till he thought best to return into Romania So he came from Ancyra and the black 〈◊〉 to the plain Sultan Ungi about 75 miles Eastward from Nice where he had many skirmishes with the Christians Now Aladin the Elder of whom before had subdued divers great Countries in lesser Asia and was named by the Turk's 〈◊〉 Padischach that is their great King or Emperour Ertogrul having 3 sons Iundus Sarugatin and Othoman sent Sarugatin unto him to grant his poor exiled Country-men some small corner for them their Families and Cattle to rest in The Sultan not unmindful of his own distresse courteously used the Messenger And it fortuned that this Sultan troubled in lesser Asia by the Tartars had Sharp conflicts with them in one whereof he was in danger to lose the day but Ertogrul coming unlooked for with 400 men on the Tartars backs so forcibly charged them and the
entred the Souldiers suddenly leapt out of the packs and with the help of the disguised slew the Warders for most were gone to the marriage place of the Castle possessing the same Othoman the Captain taking his chamber took horse with Cossi and his followers to Belizuga whom the Captain presently pursued with his train most being drunk whom Othoman in the conflict slew putting the rest to flight Early in the morning also he surprised Jarchiser Castle with the Captain and his daughter which was to have been married the next day with all her friends whom he shortly married to his Son Orchanes who had by her Amurath I. and Solyman Bassa He presently sent one Durgut Alpes of great valour to besiege Einegiol Castle who used such speed that he invironed it that none could passe in or out till Othoman setting all in order at Belizuga came with the rest to Einegiol which he presently took by force cutting the Captain his enemy in small pieces for they had used the like tyranny against the Turks Now began Othoman to execute the Justice of good Lawes to all both Christians and Turks his Subjects and to protect them from the spoyl of others whereby those who forsook their Countrey through troubles repayred to their 〈◊〉 dwellings also many strangers whereby the wasted Country soon grew populous Then he besieged Isnica called Nice in Bythinia this City by placeing his men on every passage in forts that nothing could be brought in for relief he greatly distressed the Citizens in extremity certifyed the Emperour of Constantinople that they must except present relief came famish or yield The Emperour embarqued certain companies for relief of whose landing Othoman understanding lay in ambush with most of his forces near the place and slew most of them driving the rest into the Sea where they perished Othoman returning most streightly besieged it whose Citizens now despairing yielded that great and rich City to him with whose spoyl he enriched his men Of whose good successe Aladin hearing sent him a fair Ensigne Drums c. saying that all should be his own that he took from the Christians and publique prayers to be said for Othoman's health c. the Sultan's proprieties This made many think that the Sultan intended having no Children to adopt him his successor who 〈◊〉 to Aladin the 5th part of 〈◊〉 spoyl but during his life used not his princely honours intending 〈◊〉 to visit the Sultan But being about to 〈◊〉 forward he was informed of Aladin's death and that Sahib had taken on him his dignity which news much discontented him being in hope to succeed him or share in most part of his Kingdome Yet he thought it now fit to take the princely honours granted him by the Sultan in his life wherefore he made Dursu Fakiche Bishop of Carachisar who first by his command made publique prayers for Othoman as was went to be for the Sultan coyning also mony in his own name and taking all the honours of a Sultan which was about ten years after 〈◊〉 's death in 1300 to which time the Turkish Empire under Othoman is to be referred Then he made his Son Orchanes princely Governour of Carachisar and his chief followers Governours of Castles He chose Neapolis to be his regall seat calling it Despotopolis that is The City of the Lord yet he 〈◊〉 not to augment his Kingdom but accompanied with Orchanes surprized adjoyning places serving best for its enlargement The Christian bordering Princes fearing Othoman's greatnes might shortly be their confusion jointly invaded his Kingdom with fire and sword who meeting them in the confines of Phrygia and Bythinia fought with them a great battle many on both sides being 〈◊〉 and obtained a bloody Victory Castaleanus one of the greatest Christians was slain another called Tokensis he chased to Ulubad Castle not far off who for fear was delivered him by the Captain and afterwards cut in pieces in view of his chief Castle which with the Country thereabouts Othoman subdued The other Princes fled into holds farther off The Prince of Bithynia fled into Prusa now Burusa which Othoman hoped to win but finding it impossible he in one year built 2 strong Castles on the chief passages of the City placeing two couragious Captains therein thus blocking up Prusa he subdued Bythinia and so returned home honourably rewarding his Souldiers and establishing such Government that people resorted from far into his Dominions which in few years became very populous and he most famous So living in great quietnesse certain years now being old and troubled with the Gout his old Souldiers came to him with one request To take some war in hand for enlarging his Kingdom offering to spend their lives in his service c. For which he thanked them promising he would not be long unmindfull of their request But to make all safe at home first he calls to him Michael Cossi the onely Christian Captain he suffered to live in quiet to perswade him to follow Mahomet which if he refused he would war on him as his utter enemy Cossi not thinking of what ensued came with such Souldiers as he thought to use in his intended service but hearing the cause and seeing the danger 〈◊〉 Othoman's hand he requested him to enter him in Mahomet's principles which he promised ever after to embrace so saying certain words after Othoman he turned Turk Whereupon Othoman 〈◊〉 him an Ensigne and rich Robe and assured Token of his favour Who after this to content his souldiers took many bordering Castles 〈◊〉 all unto the Euxine Sea and being now aged and diseased as aforesaid he often sent Orchanes against his enemies who atchieved many great enterprizes his Father yet living The Reader may happily marvail why Paleologus and afterward his Son Andronicus suffered the Turks not Othoman but the sharers of Aladin's Kingdome to take spoyl kill and encroach especially in Bythinia as it were under their noses But let him here consider the trouble of that declining Empire and he shall plainly fee the causes of its decay 〈◊〉 Paleologus by trechery obtaining the Empire and 〈◊〉 Constantinople from Baldwin 〈◊〉 is declared fearing the Western Princes especially the King of Sicily whom Baldwin sollicited for his restitution and to marry his daughter to his Son to intangle Charls with troubles nearer home he offered to Geregory X. Bishop of Rome to conform the Greek Church to the Latine and that it should be 〈◊〉 to appeal to Romes Court as to the higher of which the Pope gladly accepted promising to keep Charls otherwise busied But when this alteration in the Greek Church should be nade the 〈◊〉 gave up his place retiring to a Monastery where he spent the remainder of his life The other Clergy 〈◊〉 their Sermons inveighed against it perswading the people not to receive it c. So that all the City and 〈◊〉 was in an uproar for many of the chief 〈◊〉 also abhorred these proceedings Whereby Paleologus leaving
them himself was to give God thanks for escaping so great a danger c. Wherewith the Prince troubled and discontented and after a whiles musing commanding him to depart he by his Companions perswasion entertained his former designements which his Grand-father suspecting would often say In our time is lost the Majesty of our Empire and devotion of the Church Yet he thought good to lay hands betime on him acquainting none but the Patriarch therewith who acquainted the Prince fleeing himself before who with all his Complices the night before his apprehension to be fled out of the City by the gate Gyrolimnia still at his Command and next day came to Syrgiannes and Catacuzens Camp at Hadrianople the Emperour the same day proclaimed him traytour proscribing him with all his conspiratours swearing the whole City to be loyal to him But he proclayming liberty in all Thracia the people resorted to him armed in great numbers First they soulely intreated the Emperous Collectours taking away their money Not seven daies after almost an incredible number departed towards Constantinople under Syrgiannes hoping at first coming to take the City at discord in it self Four daies after they encamped at Selybria whither the Emperour sent Embassadours to his Nephew for appeasing so dangerous troubles sending with them Syrgiannes his Mother to perswade him to retire a little and so come to talk and demand what he pleased Syrgiannes retired to the Prince about Orestius whither the Embassadours came also with whom it was agreed that the Prince should hold all from Christopolis to Rhegium and Constantinople's suburbs and that the Lands given by the Prince to his followers in Maccdonia should remain theirs and that the Emperour should hold the imperial City with all Macedonia beyond Christopolis and have the honour to hear and dispatch Embassadours the Prince not delighting in those weighty affaires Thus while the Greek Empire was divided betwixt the Grand-father and Nephew Asia way a prey to the greedy Turks Othoman founding his Empire in Phrygia and Bythinia and Aladins successours encroaching as fast on this side Meander robbing also the Christian Merchants trading to Constantinople spoyling Macedonia and Thracia's Coasts with the 〈◊〉 Ilands taking Rhodes out of which they were shortly driven by the Hospitallers aided by the Genowaies and Sicilian King holding it 214 years named Knights of the Rhodes till it was lost to the Turk for want of relief since which they have seated themselves in Malta Island which they have notably defended against mighty Solyman But Syrgiannes had thought from the beginning to have ruled all with the Prince at his pleasure but seeing him to be wholly Ruled by Catacuzene and himself not so much as called to any Counsel began secretly to devise revenge on the ungrateful Prince Wherefore he resolved again to revolt to the Emperour not doubting but shortly to overthrow the Princes Counsels and State He secretly by a trusty friend acquainted the Emperour of his purpose alleadging He could not abide the sight of him that sought to corrupt his wife meaning the Prince This news was most wel-come for it grieved the Emperour to be so con emned and deluded by his N phew c. So an Oath passing betwixt them Syrgiannes secretly fled to Constantinople which rejoyced many But the Prince taking occasion hereat marching towards the City and being within sight lay to intercept Syrgiannes by ambushes who the third night after from Perinthus with 300 Souldiers deceiving them came to Constantinople The Prince hearing of his escape and no expected tumult in the City presently retired into Thracia Constantine the Despot was by and by sent by his brother to Thessalonica to Govern Macedonia and apprehend Xene the Princes Mother by the way and then to invade him in Thracia that he on one side and Syrgiannes on the other might shut him up and take him The Despot taking the Empresse at Thessalonica sent her in a Gally to Constantinople where she was kept close And with all his power invaded the Prince breaking thorow the wall of Christopolis The Prince sent Synadenus against Syrgiannes hoping himself to encounter his Uncle the Despot And first he wrote and dispersed Edicts promising great rewards to whomsoever brought him alive or dead Then he proclaimed his Grand-fathers death slain by the Constantinopolitans in a tumult some swearing they were present thereat others shewing white goates haires as if they were pluckt off his head or beard at the time which commonly reported filled mens heads with doubts the Despot with fear retiring to Thessalonica whither came lettters from the Emperour to apprehend 25 chief Citizens vehemently suspected by rebellion to deliver the City to the Prince but they in time secretly stirring up the people and by ringing bells soon raised a wonderful tumult of Citizens in Arms who running to the Despots house he fled to the Castle they slew or robbed and imprisoned all they met of his pulling down the house Then they fired the Castle-gates whereupon he 〈◊〉 to a Monastery not far off where being taken he took a Monks habit to save his life Yet he was carried prisoner to the Prince whose waiters were ready to tear him in pieces had not the Prince embracing him saved his life But next day he was cast into a very loathsome deep and straight prison his boy and others that drew up his ordure often pouring it on his head Where after a great while and wishing to die he was removed into an easier prison Things crossing the Emperour he was very pensive and one day opening the Psalter the first verse he light on was When the Almighty scattered Kings for their sakes they were white as snow in Salmon which he applying as if all troubles c. proceeded from Gods will sought contrary to Syrgiannes mind to be reconciled to his Nephew who being fent for came to Rhegium visiting his Mother now set at liberty doing what was done by her Counsel In few dayes an attonement was made and he lighting from his horse met the Emperour kissing his hand and foot on horse-back then taking horse embraced him kissing one another The old man after a few words departed into the City the young man to his Camp at Pega coming for certain dayes in and out at Constantinople Syrgiannes now spake hardly both of the Emperour and his Nephew wronged as he thought by them both But seeing one Asanes Andronicus walking melancholy he acquainted himself with him as grieved with the like sorrow that himself was with whom he as with a friend plainly discoursed of all things as his grief desired Asanes spake also hardly of Emperour and Nephew but hating him before for his ambition and displeased that he was enemy to Catacuzene his son in-law noted whatever he said telling all to the old Emperour and that unless Syrgiannes were in time laid hold of he should shortly by him affecting the Empire be brought to his end Syrgiannes was forthwith imprisoned the common people
being converted into most bi ter 〈◊〉 Solyman's strength thus encreasing he spoyled almost to Callipolis about 22 miles off whose Governour perceiving the Turk began to long for the City went out against him with what power he 〈◊〉 all the other Greeks lying still but he was overthrown and fled into his City the Turks following spoyled the Countrey and returning took both City and Castle in 1358. The Constantinopolitans making small account of its losse commonly said jesting The Turks had took from them but a pottle of Wine But they got in few years so far into Thracia that Amarah placed his Seat in Hadrianople and Bajaxet his Son laid hard siege some years to the Imperial City and had not Tamerlain's expedition to him fatal then happened he had carried it But Solyman certified his Father what he had done and that it was expedient speedily to send him a great supply for keeping what he had got as for further invasion Orchanes welcoming this Message commanded the Saracens likewise who were come into Caracina to possess their dwellings who were gone into Europe to passe over which they did Solyman omitted not to win small Holds and people them with Turks they of Caracina also placing themselves as in a new world For which and to extend the Turkish Dominions and Religion they refused no pains Not far from Callipolis was the little Castle 〈◊〉 whose valiant Captain Calo Joannes molested the Turks on that side under Ezesbeg slaying and taking many at advantage Solyman much argred learning when he was gone out for some exploit beset the Castle placing others in by waies lest he should any waies escape The Captain ignorant thinking to return with a Turk prisoner was pursued by Fazilbeg and hasting fell into the Turks ambush where all his men slain and he taken his head was struck off before his own Castle which forthwith surrendred and Chazi Ilibeg placed therein who thence troubled the Country to Didymothicum as 〈◊〉 from Callipolis who gave divers places taken thus in one year in Europe to his Captains and Souldiers as by the Tombs of Ezes and Fazil-beg there appeareth Solyman hawking in Bolare fields on Europe side was overthrown in a ditch and with the fall shortly died whose Father Orchanes then laying sick justly sorrowing within two moneths died about 1359 80 years old reigning 31. Some report otherwise of his death and time wherein he lived But John Leunclave in his History of the Turks Chronicles reporteth as before He was wise courteous and bountiful c. very zealous in his superstition appointing Pensions to the sayers of Mahomet's Law by heart in the Temple and competent maintenance for all Judges that for reward they should not pervert justice living and dying a mortal enemy to the Christians The Life of Amurath I. third King of Turks and the great augmenter of their Kingdom AMurath the younger Son succeeded 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 having wondrous 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 zeal more than any for Mahometan Religion Purposing at first to invade Thracia he 〈◊〉 Army from all parts to Prusa But the Mahometan Asian Princes combining he must turn his forces upon them prevailing and returning with victory and next year prosecuting his intended war in Europe wherefore with a strong Army he passed to Callipolis with Lala Schahin his Tutor whose counsel he most followed in weighty affairs Then Benutum Castle was yielded him on composition and the Town Tzurulus he won after sharp encounter with the Christians taking divers small places in Romania now called Rumilia in Thracia razing some and garrisoning others Then also the valiant ones Chasi Ilbeg and Eurenoses took some Forts on the River 〈◊〉 much troubling the Inhabitants there abouts wherefore Didymothicum's Caprain gathered his Souldiers to intercept Chasi Ilbeg losing most and himself taken for whose ransome c. the Citizens yielded Didymothicum Amurath soon after sent Lala Schahin to besiege Hadrianople the Christians encountred him on the way many being lost on both sides but in the end worsted they retired to the City Schahin sending news of this victory to Amurath with some Christians heads Chasis and Eurenoses going before himself followed to the siege which the Governour hearing fled by night to Aenus The 〈◊〉 seeing this yielded to Amurath in 1362. Some Turks Histories otherwise report especially the taking these 2 Cities which because `t is not disagreeing from their subtil dealing I thought good to set down Amurath at first of his reign concluded a Peace with the 〈◊〉 Christians during which the Governour of 〈◊〉 entertained all workmen more to fortifie his City Amurath caused 200 Iusty men to come our of Asia to offer him their service who gladly used their help some of the wiser wishing him to beware of those Asians But he through the peace and they no Souldiers had the lesse care yet lodging them without the walls every night 〈◊〉 they entertained requested 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to go with 30 good Souldiers 〈◊〉 for 〈◊〉 and to espy any opportunity to surprize 〈◊〉 City 〈◊〉 coming accordingly they found 〈◊〉 carlying stones mortar c. shewlng diligence he vigilantly awaiting for a surprizal Night come and the 〈◊〉 workmen going into the Suburbs to lodge Chasis secretly 〈◊〉 shewed Amurath how one gate of the City might suddenly be taken if he would place a 〈◊〉 ambush near to joyn with the labourers upon occasion which resolved on and Chasis returning instructed what workmen he thought meet what was to be done Next day at dinner time these 〈◊〉 at fained words and blows among themselves suddenly running to the gate appointed and laying hands on the Warders weapons as to defend themselves and so 〈◊〉 them 〈◊〉 opening the gate 〈◊〉 in the Turks laying in wait who presently took the City and put the chiefest to the sword 〈◊〉 also was in this peace by sudden assault of Eurenoses by night taken The Christians charging 〈◊〉 with this breach of League turned it to his Captains threatning them severely feigning himself 〈◊〉 in a colour all the while 〈◊〉 but he refused to restore these Cities saying 'T was against Mahomet's Law to deliver that wherein his Religion had been openly taught Whereupon fresh wars very tedious to both arose Amurath therefore made peace with them of Selybria Constantinople and Hadrianople yet this he desiring heartily to take causing Chasis Ilibeg as discontented to flee from his Master to Hadrianople from whence issuing out with other dissembling fugitives he often skirmished with the Turks and growing into the Governours favour thereby Many others also under like 〈◊〉 resorting to him he wrote secretly to Amurath If he would send him succour against the time he would deliver a gate unto him Chasis with ten followers at day dawn as going to hunt came to the gate which opened they furiously slew the Warders and aided by the other fugitives possessed the gate till Amurath's near ambush hearing the alarm speedily came and entred where was a cruel fight all day but the Turks
Commanders commending his Fathers quiet life c. protesting he was heartily grieved thereat The 〈◊〉 discouraged sent for peace which was concluded on such conditions as he pleased The great Cham of Tartary now growing old sent to him divers presents offered him his onely daughter and with her to proclaim him heir apparant of his Empire as in right he was being his Brothers son Which Tamerlane gladly accepting was afterwards done being supported by his Father in-law while he lived and succeding him after his death Yet the while he wanted not envious Competitours who now onwards of his way against the King of China Calix of great power in the great Chams Court with a puissant Army seized on great Cambalu the Citizens also disdaining to be governed by the Zagataian Tartar Tamerlane returning with most of his Army met the Rebel who had 80000 horse and 100000 foot and above 50000 being on both sides slain overthrew him himself being beaten to the ground took him and beheaded him His state newly confirmed by his Victory he proceeded in war against China breaking down their strong wall of 400 Leagues long and entred their Country overcoming the King leading 350000 with the slaughter of 50000 of his men took him and yet wisely moderating his Fortune shortly freed him yet as having taken half his kingdome leaving Ormar his Lievtenant and imposing other conditions with 300000 Crowns yearly tribute So returning in triumph to the old Emperour at 〈◊〉 glad to see him and his daughter who had still accompanied him The War against Bajazet resolved on he sent Axalla to Sachetay or Zagati to begin assembling of forces that at first of the spring he might set foreward He procured from his Father in-law a 100000 foot and 80000 horse hoping to have as many from Sachetay besides 50000 from the Lords that would accompany him and divers other supplies expected also he would oft say he was appointed by God to abate the Othoman pride So departing towards Samarchand his Empires seat he left the great Emperours forces to come to Ozara the place of general meeting The Moscovite requested sent him 15000 horse with a sum of money and to passe thorow his necessary Territories Axalla the Livetenant general had the while assembled all the Army at Ozara whom Tamerlane sent for to Samarchand to conferre about setting forward for by his advice he did all things without him nothing who wanted not the envy of the Court but his virtues 〈◊〉 and worthy services supported him against malice who having largely discoursed with him about the Armies estate and order they shortly departed to Ozara where Tamerlane consulted with his most expert Captaines whether to lead his Army towards Capha by the Moscovites Coasts or on tother side the Caspian Sea by Persia's skirts It was in the end resolved to passe though the longer way by the Moscovite so to the Georgians and Therizonda thence into the Othoman Kings Country From Ozara he came to Maranis staying 3 daies for Odmars forces from China receiving news thereof paying and generally mustring his Army He conveighed Victual's and most of his Furniture by the Caspian Sea a great ease to his Army to passe some 20 Leagues thorow places without victuals and water His Army extended 20 Leagues At the river Edel he stayed at 〈◊〉 while his Army passed over at Mechet and 2 bridges made for that purpose The Circassians and Georgians now offered him all assistance they could he passing that way The Georgians being Christians a great and warlique 〈◊〉 long tributaries to the Greek Emperours tributaries and sometimes confederates to the Persians but the Turks enemies Axalla drew great number of them to his Princes service whom being tall beautiful strong couragious and expert he not a little esteemed who had 〈◊〉 resisted the Othoman Power by their rough Countries advantage Tamerlane was by these with all necessaries relieved In marching thorow whose Countries he so severely ordered his Souldiers that if any had taken injurionsly but an Apple or the like he died for it 'T is reported a woman complaining of a little milk taken from her he ript up the Souldiers stomach where it lately drunk being found he sent her away contenting her who otherwise had surely died Which severity of many accounted extreame cruelty was the preservation of his Army 〈◊〉 Camp now as a well governed City was stored with all things Artificers and Merchants from far and Country people receiving present money and safely departing Then coming to Bachichich and staying 8 dayes to refresh he 〈◊〉 400000 horse and 600000 foot or as some present affirme 300000 horse and 500000 foot whom he generally paide orating what orders and military discipline whereof he was curious he would have kept Then also every Common Souldier might more boldly behold him than on other dayes Who passing the Georgians and comming to Buysabuich Axalla who led the head of the Army came to him with news that Bajazet raysing Constantinople siege was resolved to come to battle in Asia trusting more to the experience than multitude of his Souldiers whom Tamerlane could hardly be perswaded would adventure out of Europe but rather there protract time to weary him at which he not insolently rejoycing said a small number well conducted did oft carry the victory from a confused multitude staying 3 dayes his Souldiers still marching passed over Euphrates the rather to maintain his Army on the enemies spoile All Cities yielding he favourably received those refusing he used with all extremity 〈◊〉 strong Sebastia where some of his fore-runners were cut off and the gates in contempt set open Tamerlaxe offended sent certain horsemen upon his displeasure so to bear themselves that he might find the City taken or the gates shut for nothing was more dreadful to his men than his displeasure if any in hunting gave way to the Lyon or Bear for fear and slew him not he was sure to dye and to turn his back on the enemy was to run on his own death The garrison Turks seeing these Tartarians not many issued out to meet them who were so charged by them that retiring for haste they shut out part their own lest the enemy following should have entred of with them who were slain by the Tartarians Shortly after came Tamerlane and sitting down before it lay still 7 daies the defendants thinking he intended to distresse it by long siege But about the 8th day the walls c. in many places undermined were suddenly overthrown leaving large breaches to enter The Turks forthwith yielded in hope of their lives but he as the Turks report commanding deep pits to be digged buried quick all the people of the City and utterly rased it Then he bid 〈◊〉 the Governour spared onely for that purpose to go tell his Master what he had there seen which tragedy he relating Bajazet demanded of him wch Army he thought the bigger he answered Tamerlane had the greater number Bajazet in great Choler replyed
attempts Yet seeing in that hot season he could not so closely encamp but that some part would still be in danger he appointed 〈◊〉 with 15000 to attend Scanderbeg Then battering the Walls afresh he made greater breaches than before appointing next day for a new assault But perceiving no signe of courage in their heavy countenances c he calling them 〈◊〉 said Every weake Castle can hold out one assault but if they will draw these wild beasts out of their dens they must arme themselves to endure whatever shall happen that great Captaines have growne old under their enemies Walls c that they remember the glorious victory of Varna that all honourable things are brought to passe with adventure and labour and the end of this War depends on taking of Croia that fortune is to be proved and oft provoked of them that will wed her Yet that they must work warily with this enemy that they should weare them out if they kill but ten at a daily assault That peradventure fortune may find some unlooked-for mean as at the 〈◊〉 of Sfetigrade c. Early next morning began a valiant assault the Turks assaying vainely and desperately to break open the Gates Wild-fire being cast into many places of the City and the Artillerie oft discharged into the breaches many Turks were slaine together with the Christians who still repulfed their enemies Yet Amurath maintained the assault by supplies but grieved at heart to see them so slaine at last weary to behold it and perswaded by his Bassaes not wilfully to cast away his valiant Souldiers he ended the assault and thought good to prove what might be done by undermining daily alaruming the City to busie the 〈◊〉 Buying store of Corne of the 〈◊〉 of Lisia Scanderbeg slaying the convoy carryed it away dividing it among his Souldiers Yet he received abundance of provision from Macedonia and the 〈◊〉 Merchants furnished him with Corne Oyle Hony c. which Scanderbeg they being his secret friends would not hinder considering he might have had all the same from the further part of Macedonia Thracia Mysia c. 400 Souldiers sallying out the while chased divers Turks to the Campe Amurath hoping they would to their losse give the like attempt But the governour would not suffer them any more to sally Scanderbeg also encreasing his Armie with 2000 〈◊〉 a part to Moses another to Tanusie a third to himself determining by night to assail the Camp in 3 places at once But Scanderbeg being discovered by their Scouts Souldiers were appointed diligently to guard that side Moses and Tanusie the while assailing in 2 divers quarters slew a number of Turks and made great spoile Scanderbeg discovered did not much harme and retiring sate down by faire daylight on a Mountaine's side in sight of the Turks that Moses and Tanusie might see to meet him again But the Turks thinking he stood to brave them divers craved leave that they might go and at least beat him out of sight which granted 7000 horse and 5000 foot presently set forward Scanderbeg seeing them retired a little farther up expecting Moses and Tanusies comming When the Turks well wearied and laboriously marching up the 〈◊〉 hills were come a great way and perceived by the dust some greater force and ere long saw the foremost of them they retired Scanderbeg pursuing through the grounds advantage slew many Moses also comming in beside 〈◊〉 took divers After which victory Scanderbeg retired into the Mountaines The late spoile with this overthrow much grieved the Tyrant but the mines 〈◊〉 to no good purpose for the Rocks hardnesse and the defendants discovery drove him to his wit's end Resolving now to prove if by great gifts and promises he could corrupt the Governour and 〈◊〉 he sent a dexterous Bassa commanding him if possible first to fasten rich presents on him in honour of his valiant minde and afterwards delivering his message to promise more than should be desired for giving up of the City The Bassa being with two Servants received into the City presented to Uranocontes the rich 〈◊〉 with much reverence and many magnificall words Uranocontes willed him first to declare his message whereupon he would either receive or refuse them The subtill Bassa nothing dismaied thus began That however they agreed yet they brought not these guifts to deceive any and though enemie's guifts are as he rightly said ever to be suspected Yet they durst not for shame come to so worthy a Governour empty handed neither ought he if he be what he seeme to refuse their courtesie c. That they went not about with filed speech and rich rewards to circumvent him whose invincible mind they had so oft in vaine proved with their forces That is it for which Amurath loveth him desiring to have his virtuous enemies with himself that he was worthy of another manner of Soveraign than Scanderbeg whom he condemned not and another manner of calling c that Scanderbegs destruction might be deferred but not avoided against whom Amurath conceiving implacable displeasure would never depart out of Epirus till he imposed a deadly yoake on his neck That the first of this misery beginneth at this City that his eyes would scarce behold the horrible spectacle of the men of Croia's miserable fortune c. Did they think Amurath would in the mid'st of this heat raise his siege and be gone No no if force will not prevaile they shall alwayes have these 〈◊〉 in their eves till long famine tame their courage Can Scanderbeg victuall them 〈◊〉 able to relieve his own misery or will the Venetians who daily brings them plenty of all necessaries Therefore they should repent of their over hardinesse and gather their wits together That they should find liberty rewards perpetuall rest with Amurath c. The Bassa expected some great motion in the Souldiers but perceiving his speech rather to fill them with anger than feare requested to talke in secret with the Governour which was granted who beginning cunningly to deliver his 〈◊〉 secret message Vranocontes interrupting him commanded him to depart and that if he or any other came from his Master to speak with him about any such matter he would returne them dismembred of hands noses and eares So the Bassa was with his presents turn'd out of the City though the Souldiers could well have eased him of that carriage Amurath understanding the Governours answer in great rage next day caused a furious assault to be given rather to satisfie anger than in hope to prevaile and with greater losse than before many Turks being slaine at the breach with their own great shot At length wearied he gave over returning to his Camp as halfe frantick or distract sitting all day full of melancholly passions 〈◊〉 violently pulling his beard and locks complaining that he lived so long to see those disgracefull dayes His Bassaes to comfort him recounted his many and glorious victories and producing examples of his like event But nothing
miles long before it meet the fresh water and about a quarter of a mile broad the City Pera or Galata standing on the further side very deep bearing ships full fraught close to the shoar The 3d side almost North and South 5 miles also in length the two Sea and Haven sides are environed with a single wall with high Towers flanking the same c. But the other side regarding the main Land beside the fenced ditch is defended with 3 walls c. Mahomet placed his Asians on the right toward Bosphorus on the left towards the Haven lay himself with 15000 Janizaries c. betwixt both against the heart of the City placing also on the further side of the Haven Zoganius with another part of his Army Then also Pantologes came to the siege with 30 Galleys and 200 small ships and a number of others fitter for shew than service But the Emperour chaining the Haven overthwart placing his small Fleet within it rather there by chance than provided for such service the City was put in good safety on that side When he had surrounded the City by Sea and Land he cast up great Trenches as near the Walls as possible raising mounts in divers places as high as the walls thence greatly annoying the Defendants Then he terribly battered the Gate called Calegaria chiefly with one Ordnance difficultly brought from Hadrianople with 150 yoake of Oxen carrying a bullet of 100 pound made of a hard black stone from the Euxine Sea The Christians also discharged their Artillery on the Turks but sparingly as if afraid to shake their own Walls or loth to spend shot and Powder yet the Turks were grievously annoyed with what was spent The breach also made at the Gate was dangerously and laboriously repaired with 〈◊〉 and earth and made stronger than before In which they were directed and greatly encouraged by Justinianus Mahomet continuing his battery in greater hope employed his store of Pioners to dig a Mine directed by skilful 〈◊〉 therefore entertained whereby that 〈◊〉 of the wall with one strong Tower therein was quite undermined and supported but with stays till it should be blown up This the Constantinopolitans neither perceived nor feared for that Bajazet and Amurath had both vainly attempted the same But Mahomet had by men of greater device brought this to passe though it took not the wished effect for John Grandis a German suspecting by a Counter-mine timely discovered the Turks and they with fire and sword were driven out and the Mine strongly filled again Mahomet removed his battery planting it against the Bactatina Tower near the Romane Gate which at length falling down filled up the ditch 〈◊〉 the outer wall But this breach was speedily and couragiously made up again The Turks also erecting high Timber Towers covered with raw hides slew many Christians But Mahomet seeing their valiantness said It was not the Grecians but the Frenchmen that defended the City for so the Turks call all the Christians of the West The Turkish King almost despairing to win the City which he could but on one side assault a Christian in his Camp shewed him how to bring a great part of his Fleet by Land into the Haven to assault the City by water by which device and mens strength Zoganus Bassa brought 70 lesser Ships and Galliots with sails abroad up a great hill 8 miles into Constantinople's Haven The Christian is supposed to have learnt it of the Venetians who did the like before at the Lake of Bennacus Glad was Mahomet and the Christians with its sight discouraged who attempting to burn them in launching the Turks with great Ordinance sunk the foremost Christian Galley the rest being dismayed returned Next day the Turks slew certain Christians of the Galley took up in the Haven and in revenge certain Turks prisoners were put to death on the top of the walls in sight of the Camp Shortly after Mahomet made a wonderful bridge more than half a mile long over the Haven built with timber planks c. whereby his Army came over to assault the City on that side also Three tall Genoway Ships laden with Corn and munition from Chios and one of the Emperour 's with Corn from Sicilia coming for Constantinople the Turks Fleet set upon them and boarded them after an exceeding number of Turks slain but being much lower they could not well look out but they were slain or wounded Mahomet beholding it cryed aloud swearing and blaspheming God riding in rage into the Sea and 〈◊〉 back rent his cloathes The whole Army was filled with indignation also The great Fleet ashamed in sight of their King to be overcome of so few did what they might to enter but in vaine glad to fall off againe Some 〈◊〉 Turks reported almost 10000 Turks to have perished Three of these ships arrived at Constantinople the other was lost Though Pantogles Mahomets Admirall lost an eye in that fight yet he thrust him out of office confiscating his goods and hardly sparing his life A rumour being raised of great aide comming out of Italy by Sea and Hungarie by land for reliefe of the besieged the Turks Camp was filled with feare So that the Souldiers murmured c. Whereupon Mahomet consulted with his three great Bassaes whether he were best continue the siege or not Caly Bassa of greatest authority and secretly favouring the distressed Emperour after long declaring the difficulty of the wished successe c concluded it were best for him to depart before further losse or disgrace received But Zoganus envying Caly Bassaes greatnesse perswaded the King to proceed in his enterprise assuring him of its good successe c. Of the same opinion also was the third Bassa rather to crosse Caly c than for any great hope in the desired successe The King resolved to continue the siege authorizing Zoganus to appoint a day for a great and general assault who appointed the Tuesday next May 29. The meane time he sent one Ismael to offer the Emperour peace but on conditions no lesse to be refused than death it self the Turks being most of opinion God will not prosper them except they first make their enemies some offer of peace and to prove what confidence the enemy yet had But they were by the Emperour refused Three dayes before the assault the Turks kept their fast eating nothing till night then making the greatest cheere and joy and taking their leave one of another Mahomet proclaimed he Citye's spoile for three dayes to his Souldiers if they won it solemnly swearing the Turks great Oath By the immortall God c for confirmation thereof Caly Bassa 〈◊〉 that his counsell was rejected secretly advertised the Emperour of the appointed day for assault perswading him 〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉 them who were no lesse afraid of him c. The wofull Emperour did all the siege what he could but the Citizens many times were hardly drawne from their Trades to the Walls affirming 't was to no purpose to
fight at the breaches and starve at home Wherefore the Emperour commanding a view to be taken of all Corne in the City such store was found in many's hands that it appeared the dearth then beginning to increas proceeded rather of covetousnesse than true want this store the Emperour proportionably divided at reasonable prizes so easing the people's murmuring The Greek mercenaries also refused longer to go to the Walls than sure of daily pay the Church-plate c being converted into money to content them For the Emperour requesting to borrow money of his Subjects they would still swear they had it not as poor for want of Trade which their enemies finding in abundance wondred at their wealth and derided their folly But this was their 〈◊〉 dealing with their Emperours in that declining state as well appeared in Baldwins time But the Emperour advertised of the Enemie's purpose first commended their defence to the Almighty's protection by fasting and prayer then by Justinianus his direction appointed every commander to his certain place The City beset and the defendants but few the Walls could be in many places but slenderly 〈◊〉 The greatest and best strength were for defence of the utter Wall Justinianus with 300 Genowales and some chosen Greeks undertook that battered 〈◊〉 the Roman Gate against which Mahomet with his 〈◊〉 lay The Emperour neer Justinian for defence of another part shutting fast up the Gates of the inner Wall that the defendants should have no hope but in their valour Thus they laying all night a little before day the Turks began the 〈◊〉 who pressing fast and not seeing in the dark to defend themselves were without number wounded or slain but these were of the common and worst Souldiers Upon the day's appearance the City was at one instant on every side most furiously assaulted they delivering their Arrowes and shot so thick that the light was darkned others mounting the Ladders came even to handy stroakes The Christians with no lesse courage 〈◊〉 them down with great stones c and soon whelmed them with shot darts c that they were ready to retire 〈◊〉 sending in fresh supplyes of 〈◊〉 c his last 〈◊〉 the terrible assault began afresh The King calling on and promising the forward Captaines Golden Mountaines to others threatning terrible death so that though the Turks lay dead by heapes yet others pressing on over them either slew or wereslaine In this conflict Justinianus being wounded in the Arme and losing much blood withdrew himself without any to supply his room getting into the City by the Gate Romana in the inner Wall pretending for binding up his wound but indeed wholly discouraged Upon 〈◊〉 departure the Souldiers dismaied fled to the same Gate with which sight others ran by heapes also But striving to get in at once they so wedged in each other that in the presse and confusion 800 were trodden or thrust to death The Emperour also fleeing 〈◊〉 the rest there ended his dayes Whose body shortly found and known by his apparell his head was presented to the Tyrant by whose command it was afterwards as a trophie of Victory carried about in the Camp and City The Turks advancing their Ensignes on the Walls cryed Victory entring by the breach like a flood and entring the City by the Gate opened for Justinianus and by a breach they had before made cutting in pieces all in their way they became Lords of that Imperiall City Some few Christians preferring death before Turkish slavery sold their lives deare to their Enemies Many 1000 of men women and Children perished in this fury Many fleeing into Sophia's Temple were all slain except a few reserved to more grievous purposes than death it self The Ornaments and Jewells of that sumptuous Temple were pluckt down and carryed away it self converted at present into a stable c the Image of the Crucifix was with a Turks Cap on its head shot at with Arrowes carried about their Camp in derision with Drums playing rayling and spitting at it calling it the Christians God Others ransacked private houses to whom all things were lawfull that stood with their lust c. What tongue were able to expresse the misery of that time c. But the hidden Treasure and Riches there found passeth credit that its a proverb at this day if any grow suddenly Rich to say He hath been at the sacking of Constantinople Yea the Citizens had not care so much as to fortifie the inner Wall of the City but suffered those having the charge thereof to turn most of the money into their own purses as appeared by Manuel Grageras and by Neophytus who soore gathered 70000 Florens all a 〈◊〉 prey to the Turks After three dayes ransacking every corner of the City the Souldiers returned into the Camp driving the Christian Captives before them as droves of 〈◊〉 a spectacle no lesse lamentable than the sacking of the City c There might Parents Children Husbands Wives see the wofull misery of their Children Parents Wives and Husbands and one friend another Yet not able to mourn together being in the thraldome of divers cruell Masters The Souldiers retired Mahomet with great Triumph entered the City void of Christian Inhabitants making a sumptuous feast unto his great Captaines where surcharged with excesse he caused divers chiefe Captaines men and women many of the Emperours race to be in his presence put to death which cruelty he daily used till he destroyed all the Greek Nobility in his power with the chiefe of the Citizens divers Uenetian Senatours with their Governour Baiulus and many 〈◊〉 Merchants c. were likewife murthered So that of 47 Venetian Senatours there unluckily shut up a few found favour with exceeding ransoms Amongst these was one Lucas Leontares of late great Chancellour of Constantinople whom the Tyrant seemed to blame that he perswaded not the Emperour in time to seek peace on any condition or to have yielded He said his Master was encouraged by the Venetians and Citizins of Pera he also drew out Bassa's letters to the Emperour delivering them to Mahomet hoping for favour thereby But his eldest Son then living was executed in his sight the youngest reserved for the Tyrants lust and his own head struck off with the rest Justinianus escaping to Chios within few dayes died of griefe rather than his wound Isidore the Pope's Legat simply apparelled redeemed himself for a small ransome This Cityes glory continued many 100 years till by civill discord and private gaine it was by little and little weakned yet holding the title of an Empire 1221 years till by this Mahomet overthrown with the Christian Easterne Empire May 29. 1453. Constantine having reigned about 8 years remaining since the seat of the Turkish Emperours The Citizens of Pera doubting the same misery sent 〈◊〉 to Mahomet offering him their keyes and to become his Subjects Of which he accepting took possession thereof by Zoganus who establishing the Turks government confiscated the goods of all fled
him seemed so to detest Mahomet's Tyranny and Superstition that they were reputed to be what they would be accounted and learning the Christian Principles were baptized but these Traytors while watching an opportunity falling at variance let some words fall whereby they were suspected by some present whereupon being examined they at last confessed the design and were presently executed Mahomet understanding what was befallen to Balabanus and Jacup became almost frantiek and by his Bassa's advice resolved to go in person with such an Army as should for ever end his wars in Epirus raysing 200000 men whereof Seanderbeg being advertized fortified all strong Holds especially Croia leaving Balthazar Perduci Governour thereof and conveighing the people into places of refuge he left nought for the Turks to prey upon as he did before at Amuraths coming Balabanus entring Epirus with 80000 horse after two days ranging sat down before Croia on whom Perduci made many brave salleys Mahomet encamping there also who fummoning the City upon his own conditions the Governour returned nothing but continual shot for answer whereupon he planting Ordinance for battery cast other new ones there rather to terrisie the Defendants than for any great hope of taking the City by force Scanderbeg the while lying abroad in the Woods and Mountains with a small Army cut off the Turks forragers c. and breaking into one quarter or other of their Camp by night with great slaughter suffered them not to rest in quiet wherefore Mahomet seeing no hope and fearing his Fathers mischance leaving Balabanus with 8 expert Companies under him with a great part of his Army to continue the fiege departed with the rest to Constantinople and by the way took some small forts also by fair promises corrupting the Governour of Chidna and his faith given that all the Souldiers lying there corrupting the Governour of Chidna being 8000 and people should safely depart it was delivered unto him but having them in his power he cut man woman and child in pieces to Scanderbeg's great grief and weakning who never received such a losse before and finding himself unable to relieve Croia his Souldiers being sore wasted and his enemies warily encamping he sent to the Uenetians and other confederate Princes praying their aid at this his need c. all which promised him succours Also he passing disguised into Italy came to Rome craving Pope Paul 2 his aid who being honourably entertained yet obtained nothing of what he came for only his Treasurer had 3000 Ducats at departure who returning into Epirus found all the promised aid ready chiefly the Uenetians most drawn out of 4 of their Garrisons so that he had 13400 choise Souldiers wherewith marching towards Croia he suddenly came upon Jonima with some Troops by night who was bringing supply to his brother Balabanus taking Jonima with his Son Hedar whom he shewed in bonds to Balabanus Then returning to his Army and so to Croia he drave the Turks from the Mountain Cruina which Balabanus seeing he riding with some Troops even to the Cities gates perswaded them to yield making them promises in his Masters name but they sallying out and forcing him to retire he enraged came upon them with a fresh charge to drive them into the City but being shot quite thorow the throat he ran as fast as he could to his Camp where presently falling from his horse he dyed The Turks herewith discouraged and with Scanderbeg's coming rising that night silently retired to Tirana Plain about 8 miles off Scanderbeg entring their Tents found store of victuals which he conveighing into Croia followed himself in great triumph to the besieged's joy whom he both cōmended rewarded and sending some Companies to take the strait passages out of Epirus the Turks by 2 Messengers offered to deliver up their Horses and Arms so they might depart with life which Scanderbeg propounding to his Captains himself at last answered That as they came into his Countrey without his command so they should not by his leave depart Whereupon the Turks in the dead of that same night brake thorow those straits by force yet not without their great losse for whose escape the Souldiers greatly murmuring were hardly appeased But Scanderbeg recovering all places taken from him and putting Mahomet's Souldiers therein to the sword he brake up his Army except 2000 Horse and 1000 Foot to defend his frontiers Mahomet hearing of this evill successe so fretted and grieved that he could neither eat drink nor take rest for a season At last he resolved to go again next Spring with a most puissant Army whereof Scanderbeg hearing provided for him as formerly who being entred Epirus first repaired or re-edified the ruinous City Valmes leaving a strong Garrison to trouble that part of the Country Thence he marching to Dirrachium now Durazzo a City not on the Sea-coast possessed by the Uenetians thought to have taken it unprovided but it being strongly fortified both by the Uenetians and Scanderbeg he having to his great losse in vain attempted it suddenly rising came again before Croia the chief cause being a perswasion that Scanderbeg was in Dirrachium because he had seen some of his men in his assailing thereof offering at first great things to the Citizens if they would yield otherwise threatning all warlike calamities vowing not to depart till he had it he receiving no answer but from the Cannon or brave Salleys Scanderbeg also every night molesting his Camp wherefore rising with his Army he marched to Kedon not far from Dirrachium and in spight razed Chiurili which Scanderbeg had begun to build Then seeking those Epirots retired into the Mountaines ' he was by them with great losse repulsed Scanderbeg at his heels daily cutting off part of his Armie So at last despairing of any good to be done he returned full of discontent to Constantinople After this Scanderbeg riding to view the state of his Kingdome came to Lyssa a City of the Vinetians to conter with the Legate and other Princes as in generall so how to take Valmes which much troubled that part of Epirus but he there falling sick of a Feaver and sending for his confederates and the Venetian Ambassadours and his Wife and Son after discoursing of his troublesome life and exhorting them in concord to stand in defence of their Religion Country and Liberty commending his Wife and Son with the Kingdome to the Venetians tuition according to the Articles of confederation willing them after his death to passe into Apulia quietly to live on possessions there held by King Ferdinands gift after prayer departed January 17. 1466. about 63 years old and raigning about 24 years His death was generally lamented chiefly of the Venetians and Albanian Princes who had lost their Watchman and Champion all his Subjects bewayling him as the onely stay of the Common-weale c. He was royally interred in Lyssa's Cathedrall which City the Turks about 9 years after taking in the way of the Siege of Scodra
into the City Yet they with their shot from the Walls exceedingly annoyed the Enemy July 11 mounting another like the former they the same day battered the Walls with 178 of those shot and having now beaten down a great part of the Wall which the defendants had onely repaired with Timber and Earth between Mahomet sent some Janizaries and others to assault the breaches so either to enter or burn the defendants fortifications but the Turks approaching many were on both sides slaine especially of the assailants Which Mahomet perceiving sounded a retreat renewed his battery shaking the Wall every day with 160 or 180 terrible great shot and one day with 194. Then he caused a fresh assault to be given rather with worse successe than before being forced againe to retire with shame though two Italian Captaines and some of the better Citizens were slaine with great shot 193 being that day discharged Yet he continuing his battery the third day after gave a more furious attempt than before So that they comming to handy stroakes made a most deadly fight many of the Christians falling chiefely by the great Ordinance but of the Turks most the Enemy had so prevailed as ready to enter But all seeming almost forlorne a new supply of lusty Souldiers comming to the breach drove him downe again forcing him to retire with great losse Wherewith Mahomet grieved discharging 173 great shot into the City sent for his Bassaes and other principall men and said to them that none were ignorant that it was the third month since Scodra was straitly besieged c and the Walls and Bulworks as good as razed having much vexed them with assaults c Wherefore the morrow at day dawning they should enclose the City round and give them a terrible assault before the worn out Enemy could recover his strength and repaire his breaches that he would now prove and know them that were worthy of his pay c that they were few but the Turks almost innumerable far passing them in Artillery wherewith many should perish in defending the breaches that his minde gave him the morrow before that time they should win the City asking them if the very name of Scodra were not hatefull unto them remembring their Parents Brethren Friends or Companions slain under those Walls that it was not 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 years since so many thousands of his people fell that very hill and the stones seeming yet sprinkled with their blood therefore they should glut themselves with Christian blood as their lawes did so much exhort them doing what they might that not one of those of Scodra might be left alive saying all things were ready it was easie for a strong man to overcome the weak as they were Hereupon it was proclaimed every man to be ready against the time on pain of death the Commanders also viewing the City on the Bassaes hill consulted how 〈◊〉 to assault it the Defendants alwayes expecting their hovering enemies left nothing undone for defence Mahomet July 22. entring the royal Pavilion on the top of the Bassaes Mount plainly to behold all the assault on a 〈◊〉 given they suddenly ran to the breaches thick 〈◊〉 to take the Christians at some advantage wherein they were deceived so there was begun a most mortall 〈◊〉 especially towards the Gate where the Cannon had made the walls most assaultable There fighting hand to hand a Turks Ensign was set upon the rampier's top Mahomet rejoycing thought the City as good as taken 〈◊〉 the Christians speedily repairing thither with new supplies beat them from the rampiers also they casting down timber stores c. on them that were comming up no shot likewise falling in vain they stood so thick their Ensign was pluckt down and they forced to retire Wherefore Mahomet in a great rage commanded his Ordnance to be discharged into the breach with greater 〈◊〉 commanding the two Bassaes standing by him to go and force the Souldiers to return to the assault Who 〈◊〉 the hill where perswasion would not with their drawn Swords forced the Souldiers who striving might and main to win the rampiers the walls having been there shaken with 2539. shot the Christians with invincible courage opposed them so that a more desperate fight was hardly to be seen c. In which dreadful fight many of the Defendants were slain but of the Turks 20 to one the Christians with murthering shot making lanes out of the loupes nigh the Gate 〈◊〉 the ditch yet the Bassaes and great Captains forcing them foreward if any turned back 〈◊〉 him so that the Turks seeing the danger in retiring pressing on and others stepping into the rooms of the slain they again recovered the rampiers advancing their Ensigns Mahomet beginning to lift up his head but the Companies ready in the Market-place for all events speedily comming before the Turks had taken good footing slew a great number forcing the rest from the rampiers plucking down their Ensigns and setting up their own Wherewith the Turks dismayed without a sign retreated in spight of their Commanders hastily to the Camp Mahomet returning into his Pavilion two dayes tormented himself not admitting any one to his presence The Christians having taken their spoil set dead Turks Heads on poles round the City 12000 of them being slain in the assault besides wounded 400 Christians were lost none that came to the breach escaping without some wound After two dayes Mahomet resolved with his two Bassaes to gage his whole forces on another assault for they thought the defendants wasted and weakened could not hold out another Whereupon every man being straitly commanded to be ready great rewards were promised to those who performed any special service Mahomet the mean time spared not the walls c. omitting his Cannon and the Christians with restless labour c. omitting nought that could be devised for defence The new Moon beginning to shew her self the Turks Priests gave the Souldiers knowledge thereof by singing a Song like a procession the Army answering with a short but wonderful noise bowed to the Moon with great superstition Then beginning to draw nigh the City a mile round was thick covered with them The Christians were ready to repulse them chiefly at the great Gate where Moneta and his Brother Moncinus undertook to receive the first assault commonly the terriblest of the three which they give Mahomet going to the top of the Mount before day and the Signall given by 11 Cannons and 12 lesser Pieces the Turks assailing the City round with a most hideous outcry and nimbleness had in a trice set up an Ensign on the Gate 's rampiers which was pluckt down by Moneta and the Turks driven down with great slaughter the assault thus continuing till day Moneta received divers wounds being twice beaten down yet still recovered himself c. Mahomet discharging his great Ordnance on the Christians standing thick in the breach many were rent in pieces and the rest dismayed wherefore the Turks comming on again
forced to enter to the uttermost but Moneta maintained the place till new Supplies came not departing nor suffering others till the assault was ended whom nothing so much troubled as the great Ordnance when the Turks were driven back almost clearing the breach but others stepping in their room manfully repulsed the Turks Mahomet now commanded all his forces to be drawn to the Gate there to renew the assault Whereupon the greatest part being brought to the place they so furiously assaulted the breach that soon slaying most of the defendants they had advanced divers Ensignes but new supplies comming to the place of danger drave them back clearing the breach and overthrowing the Ensigns which turning Mahomet's joy into choler he discharging all his great Artillery at once into the breach many of his own were slain with the defendants The great Captains being in the eye of their Master forced the Souldiers forward with their swords adventuring also themselves whereby the fight was more fierce than before Many Turks were slain but the Defendants being oppressed with multitude and overwhelmed with shot were scarce able to maintain the place Wherefore a great cry running through the City that every man should repair to the breach a multitude of all sorts meeting there together so valiantly encountred the Turks upon the Rampiers that they began again to shrink back which Mahomet perceiving commanded the Ordnance to be discharged into the breach not regarding his own men and threatning his Captains with horrible death if they returned without victory wherefore the assault was 〈◊〉 newed but the Ordnance slew many Turks as well as Christians the shot falling thrice among the Turks themselves rent many a sunder to the others discouragement yet they maintained a long and terrible fight at which time with one onely shot 18 Defendants were slain Arrows fleeing and lying so thick that for a month after they burnt nothing but Turks Arrows nothing was to be heard but the terrour of the ears nothing but death and its instruments to be seen a fearful cry running through the City that without present help all would be lost whereupon not only the whole but the sick and wounded chearing themselves ran with speed to the place so that the Turks were slain in great numbers yet fresh ones still coming up the deadly fight was still maintained many falling on both sides the Turks one while seeming to have the better and streightway the worse which doubtful fight continued most part of the day and most on both sides alive being wounded or hurt the assault began to asswage Mahomet now despairing of victory sounded a retreat which the Turks hearing ran as men affrighted to their 〈◊〉 The Christians joy of this victory 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 with much sorrow for such men as were slain many of whose bodies they gathering up by peace-male buried with the rest of the slain Then also repairing their breaches they made ready for a fresh assault Mahomet much grieved with this losse and dishonour wished he had never heard of Scodra's name saying of God It were enough for him to care for heavenly matters and not crosse him in his worldly actions and tormenting himself again in his Tent two dayes not to be spoke withall On the third day calling a general Councel said He determined to give a fresh assault hoping for an easie victory over those so weakened but they all with one voice cryed out to the contrary his best Souldiers being already slain and most of those left sore wounded or weakned c. And Achmetes Bassa the Turks great champion standing up with pleasing speech calmed Mahomets fury and with grounded reasons perswaded him to desist and to take a surer course who having set forch the greatness of his valour praises and conquests who had gained from the Christians 20 Provinces and 200 great Cities saying Caesar Scipio Pyrrhus and Hannibal c. were all inferiour to him in victories and Countries subdued said In his opinion Scodra which should not so much grieve him worldly things often deceiving their expectation was not again to be assaulted for he searching every Tent found no place without groaning sighing c. he having also lot above 30000 of his best Souldiers in the last assault they being all now afraid and discouraged whom himself he said asking how so great a fear was come upon them they answered It was the very look of the men of Scodra whose eyes seemed to sparkle with fire that struck that terrour into them wherefore setting forth Scodra's strength and how himself had subjected to Mahomet the long desired City of Croia he concluded that if he would win Scodra he must block it up build strong Forts round about it and make a 〈◊〉 over Boliana with a strong Castle on each side to stop the passage then to besiege other weaker Cities of the Venetians and subdue the Country round about which would not be hard he being Master of the field so Scodra said he must needs yield at last as lately did Croia by famine This Counsel so pleased Mahomet and the rest that the assault being laid aside the Bassa of Constantinople was sent to Zabiache a City in Dalmatia's borders which in few daies was yielded to him who thrusting out the Inhabitants and leaving therein a Turkish Garrison returned to Scodra Then also the Bassa of Asia was sent against Drivasto whither Mahomet coming after 16 daies siege next day he took it without much resistance putting those on the walls to the sword and cruelly slaying the rest being 300 before Scodra to terrifie the Defendants Next day he sending the Bassa of Constantinople to Lyssa 30 miles from Scodra he finding the Citizens fled for fear fired the City where also the Turks dig'd up Scanderbeg's bones as aforesaid Mahomet committing all touching Scodra's siege unto Achmetes himself departed about Sept. 7. with 40000 to Constantinople cursing banning by the way Epirus and all that was therein especially Scodra After which the two Bassaes built a Bridge over Boliana with a Castle on either side to hinder Scodra's relief which being furnished with all necessaries they returning left Achmetes with 40000 to continue the siege who so ordering that no relief could be brought the Christians at length were fain to eat all loathsome things c. a Mouse being sold at an 〈◊〉 price as also puddings made of Dogs guts The Venetians now weary of 16 years chargeable war to their great losse and not able to relieve distressed Scodra sent 〈◊〉 an experienced Senator to Mahomet who at length concluded a Peace Mahomet to have Scodra Lemnos and the Castle of Tenarus in Peloponesus delivered to him with 8000 Duckats yearly And that they might freely traffique in all parts of his Dominions and for those of Scodra they might live still under the Turks Government or depart with goods whither they pleased whereof the Governour being certified declared to the Citizens how things stood After a thorow debate they concluded
all to forsake the City and the house of bondage and to live as pleased God among other Christians So receiving Turkish pledges of safety they came forth with bag baggage being transported into Italy where they lived in peace the Turks after a whole years siege entring the City with joy triumph this happened in 1478. Mahomet in 1480 sent Achmetes with a fleet against Leonard Prince of three Islands nigh Peloponesus 〈◊〉 he easily taking Leonard fled for his life into Italy with his wife and treasure to King Ferdinand whose Kinswoman he had married About which time Alis Beg 2 others entring Transilvania with 100000 men so feared the Country that Stephen the Vaywod speedily fled to King Matthias craving his ayd who though sick of the Gout by his Captains encountred the Turks not far from Alba Julia slaying 30000 of them with Isa Beg which victory was not without the Vaywods sore wounding and 8000 Christians slain Mahomet grieved that so small an Island as Rhodes should lye so near his Dominions troubling his Merchants c. which being formerly unfortunately attempted by Mahometane Princes he now assembled his expert Captains propounding the matter Some perswaded him to subdue it and revenge Christian injuries not fearing a repulse who was to bring moe assailants than was stones in the wall Others declaring the Islands strength with the Defendants valour c. said It was like to prove more difficult than some supposed c. alledging it was not worth engaging his honour with the lives of so many valiant Souldiers who might conquer a Kingdom yet Mahomet ambitious and solicited by Meligales a fugitive Knight of Rhodes who having spent his great substance fled to the Turk with two others of like who presented him with a plot of the City with it and the Islands strength and how to win it offering to spend their lives therein to repair their broken estate he resolved to follow their Counsel who perswaded the war wherefore committing that great action to Mesithes Paleologus his management he sayled from Constantinople with 80000 men toward Rhodes calling by the way Demetrius one of the fugitive Knights to know how safely to Land Meligalus falling sick on the way and growing loathsome and troublesome to the Turks was thrown overboard alive crying out in vain for help Peter Damboys a Frenchman was then great Master of the Rhodes who having once in 8 daies intelligence from the Turkish Court and of such judgment as scarce ever to be deceived by false advertisements had strongly fortifyed the City with all necessaries for many years siege Then also many valiant ones repaired thither out of Italy France Germany c. in defence of the place and Religion Damboys had 16000 able men in the City among whom were many Jews and other 〈◊〉 men who did good service Mesithes landing in the Island Junt 22 not far from the City Damboys calling the Defendants together spake unto them that the Turks their mortal enemies were ready to destroy their Temples Oratories Religion seeking to ruin that noble City the cruel death of them c. and although the chance of war were doubtful yet considering their courage and chearfulness he conceived an assured hope of victory That the Turks armed not against them so much for their desert as for rule and spight against them and Christianity shewing them they wanted neither provision nor a most strong Garrison of divers Nations and which was more Christ their Captain c. That they were warlike their enemies effeminate Asians c. that he said not this to fill their ears with windy words but he assured them if the siege were long there would come such strong aid out of other Countries as would not only serve to raise the siege but recover the Constantinopolitan and Trapezond Empires But supposing the hardest would not any one account his life most happily spent in defence of a good conscience and Christs quarrel c. Therefore they shewing themselves couragions he doubted not but time and his discretion should provide for the rest They resting in the assurance of their aged Governour departed to their charge full of hope c. The Bassa sent Demetrius and his traiterous companion to view with some Troops and foot where best to encamp who being known by Anthony the Master's brother he sallyed out skirmishing with them but the Turks exceeding in number Anthony turned on those behind him with such force that he slew or wounded most of them Demetrius having his horse slain himself was trodden to death by the horses whose bodie Murtius unadvisedly dispoiling was slain and his head presented to the Bassa who at his first coming taking a strong entrenched Orchard placed some Companies therein with small Ordnance the defendants having abandoned it by night leaving their Ordnance behind them for haste and by one Frapaine a fugitive Christian his Counsel he there began to batter Nicholas-Tower 300 paces distant but Damboyse mounting two great Basilisks he quickly forsook it yet shortly after he planted a greater battery near the same and of far greater force and 300 smaller pieces but Frapaine Master of his Ordnance bestowed the shot to small purpose whom the Bassa distrusting he fleeing by night again to the Rhodians discovered the Turks secrets who continuing the battery had beaten down some part of that Tower which the Christians repaired the best they could yet the Turks fiercely assaulting it for 6 hours they retired having lost 800 men with many drowned and 1000 sore wounded Mesithes having after this made a fair breach in the wall Damboyse cast up such Rampires with a Countermure that he durst not adventure to enter the Captains helping therein and moving the rest by their example The mean time young Caly Bassa being sent to see how the siege went forward it was given out to terrifie the Defendants that Mahomet was coming with 100000 men and 150 great Ordnance whereat some were exceedingly feared especially the Spaniards and their neighbours of Navarre that desiring leave to be gone they discouraged the rest Damboyse sending for them and sharply reproving them promised to ship them forthwith out of the Isle c. commanding them the mean time to cease their mutinous talk with threats who shortly after considering the dishonour to themselves and Nation if they should be so sent away craving pardon they shewed themselves most forward in all services during that siege yet Damboyse would never trust them alone The Bassa seeing by the Masters policy all his devices countermanded practised to poyson him by one Janus a Dalmatian who being received into the City as a Christian fugitive acquainted himself with one Pythius an Epirot familiar with Philelphus Damboyse his late Secretary but then in disgrace as partaker in the late mutiny a fit instrument to work the Treason as being well acquainted with the Cooks and Butlers c. whom Pythius perswading to revenge the disgrace he lived in shewed him how
the part of the Kingdom whence Mahomet drave his Father who both together were 〈◊〉 unable by all friends they could make to encounter with Bajazet's great power Zemes with gifts from the Sultan and promised aid met the Caramanian perswading the contrary on Asia the lesse its borders where they concluded joyntly to invade Bajazet and entring Cilicia now Caramannia they encamped between Iconium and Larenda Bajazet fearing more the revolt of his Souldiers than his Brothers power raised an Army of 200000 men sending Achmetes before with one part in his march a rumour was in the Camp that some Captains had conspired to betray him into his Brothers hands and that many upon joyning battel would revolt to his Brother wherefore Bajazet doubting what to do divided a masse of money amongst the Army loading them with ample promises they shewing fidelity and valour then drawing nigh Iconium he glozingly shewed a desire to come to some agreement with them secretly endeavouring to stop all passages that they might not retire into Syria Zemes weighing his own weak forces timely retired to Mount Amanus's straits dividing Cilicia from Syria perswading the Caramanian to give place unto the time c. So breaking up his Army he with a few came to Cilicia's Sea-coast hiring a tall Ship to save himself upon sudden danger sending the while to Damboys that since he had no safety amongst his own people he would upon his safe conduct come into Rhodes The great Master deeming his flight to be much profitable to Christians presently sent to fetch him but before the Gallies came Zemes was forced by the access of his enemies to go aboard the afore prepared Ship and putting a little from shoar he shot an Arrow back with fastened Letters directed to Bajazet shewing he fled not to the Christians for hatred of his Religion or Nation but as enforced thereto by his injurious dealing but he surely hoped that he or his Children should receive the just guerdon of that his tyranny which Bajazet reading it 's reported he altogether mourned shunning for a season as half distracted all speech and company Zemes being honourably entertained at Rhodes alleadged 3 dayes after in the Knights publique assembly for colour of his rebellion that Bajazet though the elder was born whilest his Father lived in a private estate but he was his Fathers first-born being an Emperour c. yet he could have been content to have given him place so he would have granted him some small portion of the Empire c. wherefore he hoped to finde succour in that his distress protesting that if ever he should by their meanes obtain the Empire he would make with them a perpetual peace and rest their friend for ever Damboys chearing him promised to keep him safe from his Brothers fury and to commend his cause to other Christian Princes He was now about 28 years old tall somewhat corpulent and well limb'd gray-eyed somewhat squinting hook nosed rising in the middle brown spare of speech chollerick a great feeder delighting in swimming melancholy c. never to be drawn from his superstition learned writing the History of his Fathers life But Bajazet things being well quieted returned to Constantinople attending some new motion by his Brother to be made but hearing he was at Rhodes he sent certain Bassaes to Damboys to deliver up Zemes for a wondrous summ of money Which when it could not be obtained they concluded a commodious peace for the Rhodians also agreeing that Zemes should be kept in safe custody Bajazet to pay in consideration and for his honourable usage 30000 Duckets yearly to the Master Aug. 1. While Achmetes was employed abroad Bajazet discoursing with the other Bassaes on his late expedition against his Brother seemed highly offended with the untrustiness of some great Captain seeming somewhat to distrust Achmetes wherefore Isaac Bassae whose Daughter Achmetes had put away as aforesaid taking hold of the opportunity increased his suspition sometimes imagining intelligence to have passed betwixt Zemes and Achmetes and forthwith amplifying his power with the Janizaries so that he might thereby do more in Zemes his quarrel than should stand with Bajazets safety c. wherefore Achmetes at his return was to be slain who comming to Court was by Bajazet invited to Supper to solace himself as was given out with his great Bassaes Achmetes mistrusting nothing came Bajazet drunk Wine plentifully causing them also to do the like although utterly forbidden by their Law Supper now ended Bajazet as a token of his grace caused Robes of pleasing colours to be cast on his guests giving to every one a fair bowle full of Gold but on Achmetes was cast a Gown of black Velvet a token of such indignation that its death for any man to intreat for such a one Achmetes now under the shadow of death said Oh Cachpogli that is Thou Sonne of a Whore since thou intendest such cruelty why didst thou not execute it before enforcing me to drink this impure and forbidden Wine so looking on the ground sate still The other Bassaes kissing the ground at his feet c. departed with whom Achmetes offering to go out was commanded to sit still c. The executioners stepping in to have slain him an Eunuch in Bajazets greatest favour advised him not to be too hasty in executing so great a Man but to stay to see how it would be digested wresting the while out of him what might be got by torture c. who was hereupon stript and carried to be tortured Achmetes his Sonne missing his Father at the Bassaes comming forth presently mistrusted and with much adoe learned of the Baslaes of his Fathers Estate then also advised of the same by a secret friend 〈◊〉 lamenting and exclaiming against Bajazets cruelty he calling on the Janizaries for ayd and minding them of his Fathers deserts towards them and of his eminent danger had in the dead of the night raised them all up in Arms who running from all parts of the City to the Court Gate redoubling Bre Bre a word expressing their greatest sury so furiously beat at it that Bajazet causing the outer Gate to be opened shewed himself out at an Iron Window demanding the cause of that uproare who answered they would teach him as a Drunken Beast and a Rascall to use his place with more sobriety and discretion calling him amongst many opprobrious words Bengi that is Batchellour or Scholler no small disgrace among those Martiall men then commanding him forthwith to deliver Achmetes or to take what should ensue Bajazet terrified with this insolency commanded him to be delivered to them who in haste was brought forth almost naked with marks in his body of hard usage The Janizaries rejoycing supplyed his want with apparell taken from Bajazets minions carrying him out on their shouldiers crying out How he did c undoubtedly ready to have slaine Bajazet if he would and to rifle the Court But he laboured to pacifie them excusing it as done
and Osman with their writings began to be contemned and Haly exalted as the true Successor commanding his Subjects to wear some red Hatband-lace on their Hats to be known from other Mahometans which they still observing are called Cuselba's or Red-heads and was soon so beloved and honoured that his sayings and commands were accounted Oracles and Lawes they swearing by his head solemnly to confirm any thing saying Hysmael grant thy desire when they wished any one well upon whose Coyn was on one side words to this effect There are no Gods but one and Mahomet is his Messenger on the other side Hysmacl the Vicar of God Chasan Chelife and Techellis the while in 1508 having gathered a great Army invaded the Turks Dominion for now such a desire of that new superstition possessed the peoples mindes in general that 10000 of them met first at the City Tascia at the foot of Antitaurus or else at Attalia on a Fair day where they executed the chief Magistrate setting his quarters on 4. of the highest Towers of the City all swearing never to forsake their Captains nor refuse any hazard for honour of their most holy Religion as they would have it These Ring-leaders considering the money brought in by the Countrey people was not sufficient to maintain such a multitude gave their followers proclaimed-leave to 〈◊〉 the Countrey and live on the spoil of those who received not their new Doctrine whereupon bringing store of Cattel c. into the Camp they their multitude increasing entred Lycaonia and roaming up and down many dayes the whole Country so feared them that those in the Villages fled with Wives Children and Goods into Iconium for Proclamations were set up proposing large blessings spiritual and temporal to such as followed their established Doctrine in Persia but to the obstinate after their Sword once drawn utter destruction so that the Inhabitants thereabouts for one cause or other resorted daily to them While the Turks were preparing to suppress them some Troops of Horse came timely to these Prophets from Hysmael who a little before by Messengers had exhorted them couragiously to proceed in so religious an enterprise promising them skilful leaders and Coyn from time to time for Hysmael bearing an old grudge against Ba jazet for former Warres betwixt Turks and Persians disagreeing also in their Superstition and heat of youth pricking him on greatly desired in this his prosperous success to have occasion of warring with him sending Embassadors to the State of Venice to joyn with them in league as before with Usun Cassanes his Grandfather chiefly requesting them to send him men skilful in casting Ordnance and with their Fleet to trouble Ba jazet by Sea he promising by filling Asia the lesse with his Land-Army to give them occasion of recovering all places they lost in the late Warres tothe Turks The Venetians answered they would never forget the ancient league c. being wondrous glad that Hysmael was the Turks enemy c. But the Embassadors such was the badness of the Venetians State and condition obtaining no more than the hope of a league to be in time concluded returned to Cyprus thence to Syria where having secret conference with Zenus Governour of the Venetian Merchants at Damasco Ba jazet grievously complained unto Gaurus the Aegyptian Sultan for suffering not as a confederate them to passe thorow Syria to the Christians their common enemies to stir them up to warre whereupon Zeuus with all the Merchants at Tripolis Aleppo Beritus and Alexandria were carried in bonds to Cairo where often answering in Chains to what was laid to their charge after a year's suffering manifold despight hardly escaped with life and liberty Chasan and Techellis well strengthened and comming to Iconium wasting the Country drew a multitude to receive their Doctrine Wherefore Orchanes and Mahomet Ba jazets Nephews governing those Countries gathering their forces came into field against them but they youthfully and hastily joyning battel in a disadvantagious place were put to flight and had not these wanted Artillery and Engines requisite they would have besieged Iconium Also Corcutus then levying an Army about Thyatira c. 〈◊〉 not set foreward against the Rebels though dispersed fast by him These Prophets entring at last into Bythinia met near the River Sangarius with Caragoses the Asian Viceroy comming against them with a great Army commanding Achomates or Achmates Ba jazets eldest Sonne Governour of Cappadocia and Pontus with his power to follow at the back of the Rebels but Techellis marching with all possible speed was upon Caragoses near Mount Horminus before he was well aware then taking up more Souldiers who thought it not honourable to refuse battel though his Army consisted most of rude Countrey people suddenly taken up most unarmed and called Asapi but he reposed his greatest confidence in his ancient Horsmen's valour and the Rebels most consisted of Foot Techellis exhorted his Souldiers couragiously to defend their lives and Religion by Victory as having no new power or Cities of refuge there to flie unto c. who giving a terrible shout as chearful set upon their enemies The Viceroy placed his foot in the middle and his Horse in the Wings to compasse-in his enemy but Techellis set all his Foot in a square battel and the Horse for a reserve who with their red Hats as if bloody terrified the Viceroy's fresh-water-Souldiers fleeing in half an houre The Turkish Horse although they had slain many and somewhat disordered the battel yet Techellis his men beginning to kill their Horses with their Pikes and lay hard at them they fled also then the Persian horse as yet lookers on following the chase slew many enclosing the Viceroy stayinghis Horsemen who for the dust could not well discern them so that he had bin taken if not rescued by his Guard 7000 Turks Foot were slain all their Ensigns with store of provision taken Chasan Techellis resting a day marched to Cutaie as it were in the midst of lesser Asia the Viceroy's seat who fled thither the Countrey also having for fear conveighed thither most of their wealth Techellis placing such Field pieces he had before taken in battel and his Archers in fit places for annoying the Defendants caused scaling-ladders to be set up proclaiming the Citie 's spoil to his Souldiers if they could take it with greater rewards to them that first recovered the wall 's top Wherefore fearing nothing they strove who first should get up the Ladders c. the Defendants casting down on them Stones Timber Fire Scalding-water Lime Sand c. wherewith though many were killed and spoiled yet others stept up in their place none shrinking back for the Viceroy on one side and Techellis on the other were eye-witnesses of every mans valour the Viceroy all being in danger personally performing all parts of a couragious Souldier but the Defendants at last wearied and most wounded Techellis brake into the City in two places over heaps of dead
with the change of their Kings c. therefore he was resolved for his own honour which Bajazet had some way blemished by his brethrens advancement to dye in field against the enemies of Mahometanism or to extend the bounds of the Turkish Empire who though one of the youngest yet would not be accounted inferiour to any brother in prowesse The Embassadours though Selimus shewed no tokens of peaee presented to him divers gifts to appease him adjoyning Samandria or Schenderonia a strong City of Servia on Hungaries borders with other Towns unto his Government giving him 60000 Ducats and 1000 cloth and silk Garments with store of provision to relieve and content his Souldiers who returned them to his Father with more doubtful answers than before yet not changing his resolution secret Messengers and Letters came from Court whetting him forward to make quick speed Achomates sent for being coming with a great power out of Capadocia Bajazet now the rather moved said he would appoint his Successout who in his stead should be fit to'govern so great an Empire but the 4 Bassaes propounding it to the Court Soldiers they cryed aloud No Emperour but Bajazet under whose fortunate conduct they had served above 30 years c. saying There was in him yet strength enough if he would retain the aged majesty of his place c. and that such a one of his children should in due time succeed him as of right ought wishing the old Emperour to live in health with a long and happy reign he needing not to fear any controversie after his death for the Othoman Progeny used to attain the Empire by right and not by faction but if upon his own liking he would choose such a one as the people so well liked not of it might perhaps bring in that confusion which he thought thereby to eschew for the other brethren would never endure so notable an injury c. The Souldiers spake these things by the instruction of Selimus his corrupted friends But Bajazet thinking they chiefly affected Achomates 〈◊〉 He would choose him if they liked it but the chief Souldiers corrupted cunningly commended Achomates c. yet saying it neither agreed with the custome of the Othoman Kings nor was good for the Souldiery or State for besides that neither Selimus nor Corcutus could endure the least suspicion of infidelity c. it seemed to them unreasonable that thereby the Souldiers should be defrauded of their usual rewards in the vacancy of the Empire for then all Jews and Christians chiefly Merchants at Constantinople Peru Hadrianople Thessalonica and Prusa are by the Janizaries and others spoiled of all their goods neither will they swear allegiance to the new Emperour till he hath granted them that prey as a bounty swearing by his head the greatest assurance to pardon all the offenders Bajazet hereupon promised to give them 500000 Ducats if they would accept Achomates for Soveraign yet the frowardness of these men of war overcame his good fortune for they conceived far greater rewards if instead of a peaceable Prince a restlesse Tyrant as was Selimus might by their help aspire the Empire So Bajazet concealing his grief put up that cishonour till a fitter opportunity Selimus advertized hereof not longer to frustrate his favourites expectation by delay c. leaving Hungaries borders and marching thorow Thracia encamped on a 〈◊〉 rising nor far from Hadrianople whence his horses neighing and Tents from the City might be discovered and sent to his Father then there that having not seen him in many years he desired to visit him before his return by his appointmen to Trapezond never perhaps to see him again saying It much concerned Asia's quietness if the controversies betwixt him and Achomates might by themselves be discovered to him their Father as a decider humbly beseeching for a time and place of audience and to kisse his hands which his Ancestors never refused to their poor friends much lesse children Bajazet had called to him certain Zanzacks with their Companies out of the nearest parts of Greece setting also strong watch thorow the City left his Souldiers about his person upon the point of revolt should in shew of Parley quite be drawn away and now blamed Selimus that he had on his own head brought his Army into anothers Province requiring audience in Arms and insolently abusing his Fathers lenity that he should not presume to approach nearer to him c. but speedily to repair to his own charge in Pontus so he should find greater kindness with him than before but if he proceeded in his course not taking him for a Son but an enemy he would shortly chastise him for his malepert insolency c. Bajazet being advertized that Selimus the night following was marched towards Constantinople hoping for some tumult upon his approach departed by break of day from Hadrianople thither-ward upon which Selimus peaceably entred Hadrianople the Citizens fearing destruction upon resistance and refreshing his Army set forward by speedy marches to prevent his Fathers coming to Constantinople who scarce come to Tzurulum almost the mid-way warning was given that Selimus's forerunners were cutting off Bajazets straglers troubling his rear who commanded his Standard to be set up that Selimus might find him in readinesse The great Captains and Nobles cunningly favouring Selimus seemed not to like of his resolution of battel the victory bringing nought but sorrow but the overthrow threatning destruction which seemed the more dangerous he being then inferiour to his Son in provision and number therefore not so hastily by a miserable death to stain the glory of his former life but speedily to march to Constantinople out of which Selimus being excluded might for fear think of return and so perish with his 〈◊〉 followers by their hands whom he had spoiled rather than by his Father's sword Mustapha the most ancient Bassa gave this Counsel who maliciously hated Bajazet emulating the younger Bassaes by him promoted secretly affected Selimus esembling Mahomet his Grandfather both for in favour and condition Mustapha was a Greek Priest's Son born in Sores of a sly and crafty wit subject to corruption his froward and sainting look discovering it Selimus had allured also Bostanges Bassa infamous for covetousness ambition and treachery betroathing by promise one of his daughters unto him and by the same slight Aiax Aga of the Janizaries yea the Captains either for reward or fear almost generally leaned that way Only Cherseogles a faithful and upright man thought that Selimus was there by force of Arms to be oppressed before his nearer approach to the Imperiall City c. not to be thought said he that the naked Tartarian horsemen though more in number would abide the charge of Bajazet's well-armed Pens oners not doubting but the Janizaries would defend their aged and victorious Emperour against disobedient Selimus c. Wherefore he perswaded him cheerfully to mind his Souldiers of his former bounty as of their duty who reposing his trust in
to regard his promise or what was right he would by Arms defend his honour and right and revenge the disgrace Bajazet answered him by the Cadalescher the Interpreter of their Law and so of greatest authority that he did neither well nor wisely to fall into such choler thinking to get that by force which was onely by love and loyalty to be gained whereas all should be surely kept for him if he marred not that by haste which by patience he ought to cherish the Cadalescher telling him he might learn by Selymus his Example what might be for his good c. Achomates enflamed with anger and grief while he was speaking sharply taunting him could scarce stay from violence threatning that his Father should dearly buy the change of his purpose and the Souldiers their treachery 〈◊〉 rising with his Army he cruelly spoiled in Bythinia in his return determining to invade the lesser Asia to use its wealth if he must try his right against either Brother and being at leastwise possessed of half the Empire he should thereby be readier for all events wherefore greatly complaining of Bajazets unkindness c. to his Sonnes Amurathes and Aladin he declared there was no hope left except they with him would arm to defend his and their own right easie to be done by a couragious surprizing of the lesser Asia seeing Pisidia Lycaonia Pamphylia and Ionia's Sea-coast had no Army or Navy and for Corcutus there was no great doubt but he would either sit still or in a just quarrel take his part however he might easily be thrust out doubting not but that the other Governours would yield to his Command or Fortune wherefore he willed them to pluck up their hearts c. These Gallants encouraged had soon raised a notable Army of Volunteers most being servile men But Achomates besides his old Army led against the Persian Rebels levied new forces with all the able men in Cities so running and proclaiming himself King of Asia prosecuting with his two Sonnes all who yielded not to him whereby many Cities for fear or constraint were delivered to him Then entring Lycaonia and Cilicia's borders he frequently requested Mahometes his Brothers Sonne governing there to ayd him in his just quarrel for the recovering of the Empire c And if Mahometes would ayd him with men and Victuall he promised he should finde a better Uncle then he had a Father in time to be most bountifully 〈◊〉 who answered he could not do it without Bajazet his onely Soveraign his Command 〈◊〉 not for him to judge whether he did right or not that in his life-time he would resign to his Sonne But this he knew he was to obey no other so long as he lived in possession of the Empire to whom both his Father Tzihan and himself had sworn loyalty Wherefore it were good to pacifie himself lest he wronged his Father and overthrew his hope and honour which of right should be great if he could have patience Achomates unexpectedly finding his requests more considerately denyed than were reasonably by him demanded entring his Province destroyed with fire and sword which Mahometes seeking by power to remedy was overthrown by Achomates who fleeing to Larenda not farre off was there besieged and at last with his Brother a Child delivered into his hands the City being yielded on Composition who put to death Mahometes his Councellors with his foster Brother supposing they had perswaded him so to answer c. Bajazet wroth and grieved in old age to be set upon by two Sonnes sent to him reproving his disloyalty commanding him to free his two Nephewes and without more stir to get him to Amasia and if not to denounce to him open Warre but he receiving this Message caused the chief Embassador frankly speaking to be put to death in his presence threatning the rest with the like if they voided not his Camp before Sun-set This unreverent outrage and against the Law of Nations highly offending Bajazet and estranging many from Achomates the Souldiers exclaimed in Bajazet's hearing that his insolence was forthwith to be repressed c. Mustapha also with Bostanges and others who had cunningly dispersed these things began as it were to wonder at the fact as condemning the deed but not the doer but when they saw Bajazet from sundry motives ready to seek revenge they bitterly inveighed against Achomates as a Traitor commending the Souldiers fidelity and courage who for their aged Emperour were most ready to expose all unto new dangers So Achomates being proclaimed Traytor t was ordered the Court-Souldiers with the European Horse to be with all speed sent against him but choice being to be made of some worthy Generall they all began to strain courtesie c. saying It were a great indignity for the Emperors Army to be led against his Sonne by a Servant and the Souldiers having their Lesson said they neither durst nor would draw Sword against his son Heir except conducted by one of the Othoman blood in person for so had his Brother long before and lately Selimus been both vanquished by Bajazet's own Conduct All this was that Selimus whom yet they durst not name but in way of disgrace might indirectly be reconciled to Bajazet whereby comming to Constantinople he might seize on the Empire for besides Bajazet and Corcutus who it was not probable would for age and study undertake those 〈◊〉 Selimus was only left all the young Nephews being as yet unfit Bajazet in a chase flung into his Pallace excusing himself but complaining that Corcutus following learning had neglected other studies better beseeming a Prince Mustapha the while having drawn him into a Discourse concerning that Warres proceeding craftily and destructively said himself though never so able must not passe into Asia personally lest Selimus should in his absence seize on Thrace Greece and the Imperial City nor if he should send his old Souldiers into Asia calling Corcutus with his Asians into Europe would said he Selimus fear these fresh-water Souldiers or their Philosophical Generall c. but if Bajazet should for defence of Thrace retain his most approved Souldiers he should see all Asia on a fire c. wherefore seeing t was his fate that two begotten of him should be adjudged Traitors why did he not set upon them as occasion should serve when they were by the eares betwixt themselves At present saith he dissemble thy grief and taking one in shew into favour imploy him against the other c. at pleasure to oppress him to whom he should commit his Army his trusty Souldiers being ever ready c. He scarce having don speaking the other Baslaes as before agreed perswaded Bajazet to call home Selimus and make him Generall saying It was like he now corrected would contain himself within compasse whereas Acho mates was not like to be brought to conformity till by force pluckt down as was Selimus Bajazet seeing Cherseogles sit silent hanging the head as not of that opinion
stood a while in doubt what to resolve on but the unfaithful Bassaes Cherseogles most instantly perswading the contrary so perswaded him as to write himself to Selimus that on hope of his loyalty he would receive him into his former favour making him Generall against his rebellious Brother Achomates if he would speedily repair to Constantinople Corcutus the while advertised of these things sailed to Constantinople in his Gallies where entring the Privy-Chamber with many friends humbling himself and kissing his Father's hand after much talk betwixt them is reported to have said that he above 30 years past being by a general consent chosen and proclaimed Emperour had chearfully and willingly delivered that glorious Empire unto him c. Neither did it ever repent him of that his singular kindness and duty done when as being contented with what he assigned him as with a Kingdom he thought that his Father's great Estate c. not comparable to the quiet of his pleasing studies those worldly things working no full contentment to the insariable desire of man and that surmounting vertue and most sweet meditation of heavenly things promised to his contemplative and ravished minde of farre more worth and Majesty than all the Monarchies of the World but whilest he was for devotion and desire of knowledge travelling to Mahomet's Altar and so to the Indians as more knowing and sincere men he drew him out of Aegypt by that Sultan into Phrygia c. as if he thought the time would come when for the ill disposition of some an innocent man devoted to study might be a stay to him and the Othoman Family Since which he had with all possible integrity discharged his charge and in the late Persian Warre defended his Frontiers from invasion But they being vanquished his unnatural Brethren having one assailed Bajazets person and Empire the other setting all that part in Asia on a broil he thought himself in duty bound to repair to his Majesty c. who having had too great proof of his Brethrens infidelity c. he humbly besought him before the coming of Selimus he hearing that his Father's Guard and chief Commanders did but expect a time when they might salute him Emperour whom he sore against their wills overthrew infidels to restore him the Empire due to him whilest it was yet in his power in that so momentary occasion then presented Bajazet moved with a Fatherly affection towards Corcutus whose teares stood in his eyes bad him be of good cheere discovering his ground of calling home Selimus and that he could be content to resign to him the Empire but it was not at present in his power for fear of the Court-Souldiers c. But by the plot now laid Selimus should under the Title of Honour with the Souldiers be drawn into Asia whither as soon as they were passed he promised to resign unto him which done although they wholly liked not yet he feared not that they who had lately defended him against Selimus should for his sake dislike Corcutus c. hoping rather that if Achomates and Selimus should joyn battel either one or both should justly perish Corcutus not much misliking his Fathers purpose c. returned to his Lodging not without hope and remaining many dayes at Constantinople he as a plain upright man neither by gifts nor promises strove to procure any ones good will Selimus his friends the while advertising him of Corcutus his comming to Court advised him with all speed to come to Constantinople c. whereupon he with certain Troops commanding the rest to follow came thither with wondrous speed Corcutus the Bassaes Courtiers and most of the Souldiers receiving him as their manner is at the Gates entrance with a kisse bringing him thorow the City the people running to see him who was welcomed with much thundring shot and joyful acclamation of all Ages and Sexes and next day comming to Court humbly in shew kissed Bajazet's feet craving pardon who smiling on this Crocodile courteously took him up saying His faults were so much lesse as finding speedy repentance therefore he the willinglier pardoned him henceforth to endeavour that God may be thought to have endued him with a good minde as with a notable courage which with his forwardness he might manifest by a martial matter worthy his hardinesse A Councel of Warre being called Selimus dissembled the Generalship not to be preferred before Corcutus for his years and discretion that he having his Fathers favour could be now content with never so little corner of the Empire Corcutus and his friends whose hope was in Selymus his departure with the Souldiers instantly requested him not to refuse that Honour without disgrace to Corcutus he being more experienced in Warre So he was no sooner chosen Generall against Achomates but the Janizaries and Court-Souldiers especially before instructed saluted him their Emperour also arming to defend their act Selimus at first shewed a half unwillingness as to reverence of his alive-Father but afterwards promised besides particular favours owing to the Men of Warre to bestow a great and general largess amongst them which he did Then he requested the Bassaes and chief Commanders to go and take Orders since t was their minde that the Empire might be transferred on him by his Fathers good will without farther trouble Mustapha whether on a new fineness of his own or that Selimus threatned to kill him if he did not coming as dismayed to Bajazet who hearing the Souldiers clamour was come into the open rooms most unwelcomly said Emperour the Men of Warre have saluted Selimus c. requiring thy ratification ready to break in and kill us both if thou refuse to resign they request that of thee which they have already put into his hand Wherefore it s farre more dangerous to seek to recover c. than willingly to yield c. they in Arms and fury thinking on greater mischief Bajazet troubled and perceiving the treachery after pausing furiously brake out False and forsworn do you thus betray me c. why not also take away my life who could not a while expect my dissolution but must in post-hast set up a most wicked man But much good may do you with him c. to whom ere long you shall dearly pay for this treachery And he beginning his Empire with unnatural treason and blood-shed shall not I hope escape Gods heavy hand Mustapha with false Bostanges and Aiax returning told them he as well content had appointed Selimus to succeed him then those corrupted began to look big and others standing before doubtful joyned themselves to that faction Selimus being mounted was in pomp conducted up and down the streets and generally by the people yet most otherwise affected saluted Emperour the Bassaes and Souldiers being that day sworn unto him Corcutus whether for grief or fear though Selimus promised him Mytilene with Lesbos secretly returned to 〈◊〉 Bajazet overcome with sorrow before he were enforced trussing up store of Treasure
Daughter in marriage for t was thought if Selimus should any way miscarry none was to be preferred before Amurat and if he should invade him out of Persia all lesser Asia for the death of Achomates would revolt from him Wherefore Hysmael at Spring willed Amurat to passe Euphrates at Arsenga into Cappadocia with 10000 Horsemen to prove the Countries affection and enemie's strength sending Usta Ogli with 20000 Horse to follow Amurat within a dayes journey himself staying in Armenia with a far greater power doubting to want Victual in those vast and barren places whereby he must passe Amurat entring Cappadocia had some Towns yielded him by friends others he took by force sacking or razing them and so fearing the Inhabitants that they submitting all the way 't was thought that he had gone to Amasia had not old Chendemus Selimus his Asian Lievtenant at Sebastia now Sivas met him with a great Army who also having advertised Selimus of the Persian's coming he came into Asia meeting all his forces at Prusa speedily levying thereabout 40000 Souldiers which Amurat understanding though desirous to fight Chendemus yet doubting to be intangled in Antitaurus's straits by Selimus his speed he retired to Usta Ogli Selimus to the great joy of Christendom converted into the East in 30 dayes came and joyned with Chendemus at Arsenga and in revenge of his enemies harrying the Countrey resolved to follow them and enter the greater Armenia the chief Persian Province The difficulties of this expedition were propounded in Councel to be great and many for the Souldiers who had soon marched thither out of Europe already were to endure the pinching cold of Mount Taurus by and by scorching heat in plains with thirst hunger and want and the more since the 〈◊〉 retreating destroyed all serving for the use of man on purpose if they should pursue them besides they stood in no small doubt of the petty Princes of Armenia the lesse and Aladeules the Mountain-King whom they should leave behind them with no great assurance of their friendship c. Aladeules his forces being not to be contemned and his command by Castles and Garrisons stretching from the Mountains Scodrisci near Pontus to Amanus dividing Cilicia from Syria Chendemus also of great experience and in greatest authority with Selimus perswaded him with a notable and grave speech to stay a while in Cappadocia to refresh his wearied Europeans and to expect the coming of his enemies disswading him from the dangerous expedition into Persia. But he doing all things according to his own direction though not a little moved with that speech and seeing many Captains troubled at the imagination of the danger yet in a fume refuting a little of Chendemus his speech dismissed the Councel protesting he would proceed hap what would hap though that old fellow he said feared to die honourably Whereupon others accustomed to serve his humour and envying Chendemus beginning with the greatness of his forces valour of his Souldiers c. laboured to lessen what the Bassa had said touching te enemies prowesse and power Then discrediting him saying he being of known resolution had not so said as wanting courage but as foreloaded with Amurat's promises and Persian Gold Wherefore they wished him to beware of the Fox and proceed so much the boldlier c. And moreover these flatterers suborned false accusers affirming he received great summes from Amurat and therefore timely went not against the Persian robbers for which pretences Selimus commanded Chendemus without further hearing to be slain indeed to terrifie others from like liberty of speech and to teach them to accept of their Sovernighs devices and counsels without contradiction The sudden death of this faithful Counsellor struck exceeding fear into the mindes of all Selimus marching on came to the lesser Armenian King's Confines and of Aladeules requesting them then in Arms to joyn and go with him against the Persian promising the Warres happily ended to give them all taken from the enemy as a reward But they hating them both for daily injuries received and expecting the event answered they took not up Arms but for their own defence c. yet if he would peaceably passe thorow their Dominions they promised a free passage and to relieve him in Armenia the greater with what Victual their bare Countrey afforded Selimus thinking those poor Kings would for love or fear have done him what service they could then dissembled his grief Wherefore passing the Mountains Scodrisci in 8 dayes to the great Mountains Moschii which famous Euphrates separates from Antitaurus and running into Iberia and Colchis discovereth Armenia the greater on the right hand here Selimus least he should lack water departed not from Euphrates his banks So holding on Eastward till he came to the Mountain Periardo for its fertility there called Leprus that is fruitful for Euphrates and Araxis there running forth of contrary marishes water that Champian drie Countrey Selimus not yet hearing where Hysmael with his great Army was as half afraid encamped at the head of Euphrates sending his Scouts every way to intercept some that might inform him therein But the Armenians whether for fear of Hysmael's command were fled out of that part whereby Selimus was to passe carrying away or burning whatever was for mans use The Scouts after two dayes returned to Selimus not taking one man shewing him how it was and thinking either the Armenian Guides mistaking or on purpose had brought them into such desart places where Horses and men must perish together the weak Kings increasing their fear chiefly Aladeules who for a few dayes helped them with Victuals but being gone farre thereinto Armenia performed not his promise thinking Hysmael would vanquish the Turks as he had most of the East Selimus perplexed c. with grief remembred what Chendemus had before told him yet seeming chearful to his Souldiers c. and calling his Guides he understood that on the right hand beyond Periardo lay the fruitful Countrey of Armenia so compassing the Hill Northward he turn'd down toward Araxis passing it over about the City Coy for it is foordable till it receive Rivers out of Periardo He had scarcely got over but Usta-Ogli with Amurat encamping not farre off quickly set forward to meet the Turks lest Coy where the Persian Kings for fresh Fountains c. wholsom air and plenty of all fruit used to spend most of the Summer should be suddenly surprized Cussimus an Armenian probably shewed Jovius Coy to have been famous Artaxata which Domitius Corbulo destroyed Nor did Hysmael though he lately sent most of his forces against the Coraxeni in rebellion not much reckoning the Turks durst come so far delay but forthwith came personally to his Army Usa-Ogli incamping near the City when as the Turks Scouts upon Hysmael's coming the dust rising and the Horses neighing perceived a great power was at hand The Turks were glad that now they should by Victory turn their toyl and famine c. into
free men being found amongst whom were 600 Knights 500 of Creete the rest most Marriners who did great service the 〈◊〉 serving chiefly to dig and carry Earth and the Citizens except a few of the better sort were most weak and of small courage great speakers but small doers yet hardly to be governed Villerius rearing nought more than the faint hearts of the Citizens 〈◊〉 them together encouraged them by a speech the 〈◊〉 whereof 〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉 the Turks who came out of the dark Dens of 〈◊〉 Caucasus their injury and tyranny and 〈◊〉 desire of Soveraignty especially to exceed herein against Christ and Christians whose Islands and Countries he strove to the utmost to take from them and utterly to root out the Christian name hoping he said other Christian Princes would in good time joyn with him and his Knights of the Order who were most ready to defend them their Wives Children Goods and Temples declaring the Cities strength and great store of furniture of Arms and Provision 〈◊〉 as they should not feel hunger and thirst which calamities for all that he said some people in faithfulness and valour not comparable to them had most constantly endured as they of Petilinum when besieged by the Carthaginians and they of Cassilinum by Hannibal holding out till a 〈◊〉 was sold for much money who thrusting their Children and Parents 〈◊〉 lived with Leather or Hides sodden leaves of Trees c. till wanting strength to hold their Weapons or stand on the walls that if their Houses chanced to be beaten down they must have patience for they should be repaired neither was 〈◊〉 of such importance as therefore to yield to enemies in whose 〈◊〉 and fidelity there was no assurance for said he besides Solymans being cruel and unfaithful by nature he can by no meanes be gentle and faithful toward us who have done him so much harm that God had hitherto protected them so often assailed by open force whom he wished them above all things to serve and call upon for saith he except the Lord keep and defend the City the Watchmen watch but in vain The vulgar especially were much encouraged herewith but whilest they dreamed of nothing but victory the wiser 〈◊〉 careful did what they could to effect the forewished good Clement the Greek Bishop greatly repured by them labouring to perswade the Greeks in that great and common danger to joyn with the Latines whose Governme nt they many times repined at fordefence of the City and it was so ordered at that time that they all agreed as one man to spend their lives c. many of the vulgar wishing his coming rather then not And few nights after the Turks by night fires in the Main gave sig 〈◊〉 parley whereupon a Galley and long Boat setting forth being nigh the shoare was hailed by a Turk with a Troop of Horse desiring to send one ashore for more convenient parley which the Captain refusing Art thou said the Turk afraid of Xaycus's fortune who 〈◊〉 answered Xaycus troubled him not nor they feared him but if he had nothing else to say to get further off or he would speak to them by the Cannon A Turk coming layed down Letters on a stone and said In them was their charge who being departed with the rest the long Boat was sent for them thus directed Solyman by Gods Grace King of Kings c. To the Reverend Villerius Lilladamus Great Master c. THe Purport was that pittying his Subjects and for his great injury he was wroth Therefore he should yield him the Island and City without delay making divers protestations that if they chose rather his friendship than his force they should depart with all their Riches or live under him without infringement of Liberty and Religion by any Tribute but to those that were subdued were all extremities from the angry Conqueror threatned from which neither their force forraign ayd nor huge Walls which he would utterly over-throw should defend them This being openly read some thought 't were good to answer him roundly Others not further to provoke so great an enemy at last they agreed to send him no answer at all The day these Letters came June 14. a Turkish Commander arrived at Coos-Island part of the Rhodes Dominion with 30. Galley fore-runners Who beginning to burn the Corn almost ripe and Villages Prejanes the Governour of great valour with some Horse and Foot suddenly set upon the dispersed Turks with such a cry of the people and Instruments of War that running away amazed many were slain not resisting and had not the Galleys received them not one had escaped who then put to Sea again The Rhodians now most of them assured of the Turks coming by Pomerolus Vice-master his perswasion burnt down the Suburbs utterly destroying their pleasant Gardens nigh the City and all the rest within a mile except things needful for the Siege which they took in that the enemy should find nothing there to use A woful sight the while more mournful than the enemie's 〈◊〉 presenting it self for the miserable Country-people as Villerius commanded bringing in wood corn cattel fowls c. numbers of Women and Children followed them weeping with dischivelled hair scratching their faces tearing themselves wringing hands and casting up eyes beseeching God to defend the City and themselves which multitude being packt into narrow Rooms and their cattel starved afterwards corrupted the ayr rotten agues and 〈◊〉 ensuing but the City being yielded there followed such a plague as destroyed great numbers of Turks and Christians not knowing whither to go The Turkish General which landed in Coos was sent before to provoke the Rhodians to Battel who with 20 Galleys came daily betwixt Lycia and Rhodes leaving the rest at Gnidum 〈◊〉 not far from Rhodes to ayd him upon necessity braving them many dayes knowing a Victory then was little less than taking the City or if he could by fight but weaken their number he should further his Masters Victory and sometimes laying at the very Havens mouth the Rhodians moved as not wont to be so braved by importunity had a Councel call'd to consider whether to fight or not Whereupon the Chancellour of great authority spirit c. said Such disgrace was presently to be revenged for said he the huge Fleet of the Turks is as a head to be joyned to these Pyratical Galleys as members to which head they should give such a blow by cutting off those limbs that it should ever after stagger or if no Fleet were prepared to follow that then it being discomfited they should be at quiet which in his judgement was most like to be true the fit time of the year for a Siege being so far spent c. Wherefore to set upon their proud enemies not fearing a few threatning words and sitting still like cowards not daring to shew their heads which forsooth they called Fabius his policy wishing they were as Fabius but fearing they should prove more
further indignation with these and such speeches he was forced to send Embassadours to Solyman Groleus the Ensign-bearer and Barasius skilled in the Greek-tongue for whom Achimetes kinsman and an Epirot who had fled to the Turks because a Greek Captain struck him with his open hand of a sharp wit and speaking Greek Turkish Italian Languages were pledges Solyman's Interpreter came also after for Solyman counted it a disgrace to speak any Language but his own the Embassadours told Solyman they were sent to know why he sent for parley Who in a flaming heat as if not knowing thereof said There was no such matter and commanding them to void the Camp sent them away with Letters that they should yield speedily as he commanded their Lives Wealth and choice to tarry there still or to depart he granted them that they should not refuse grace frankly offered c. saying it should not be always lawful for them to make choice of both Upon their return the multitude flocked to Villerius his House who being dismissed and the chief Burgers sent for the Letter was read before the Knights and better sort of Citizens To which the Master answered they had heard those imperious letters were sorrowful that they must resolve to yield or die except Forreign ayd come Wherefore with Weapons in hand letus said he to the last gasp valiantly defend our Faiths and Nobility received from our Ancestours c. never to besaid Honours died but with our selves This speech seemed to many heavier than Solymans Command who stood silent heavily looking one upon another c. At length a Greek Priest with great compassion of mind and tears trickling down brake forth into a 〈◊〉 speech perswading the Great Master to yield Most there present was of his mind yet the speech was not liked of all Some considering the harms they had done the Turks doubted with what safety they might yield unto those faithless people rather to fight it out to the last man and so leave them a bloody Victory Amongst these one bold-spoken fellow stept forth a common Souldier and by a most resolute speech disswaded the yielding up of the Rhodes concluding they should enjoy eternal fame and glory in Heaven and earth prepared for such as honourably dic in defence of their Prince and Country which honour said he it becommeth not them to envy who for many years enjoying the profit of peace and being greatly enriched by the bounty of this sacred Military Order refuse now to bear this last burden of War At these words an ancient Greek for wisdom and discretion greatly reputed by Greeks and Latines perceiving his Country-men wrongfully touched and the desperate holding out of the City vainly perswaded interrupting him notably answered to his speech and urged earnestly and affectionately the yielding of the City Notwithstanding Villerius making shew of greater courage than his present State required after thus discoursing most of the night commanded every man to his charge answering only He would be careful of all their well-doing Next morning he sent for Preianes Martiningus and a few other who resolved him the City could not be long defended Wherefore calling a Common-Councel it was by a general consent concluded the City should be yielded and a Decree by the Great Master pronounced During a 4 dayes truce with the enemy full of danger divers presuming Turks came to behold the Walls and Rampires Fornovius sore moved without command discharged a Tire of Ordnance among the thickest of them Then also they received by night into the City a ship-load of Wines from Creet with Alphonsus chief Pilot of the Rhodian Galleys and 100 voluntary Latines thence without the knowledge of the Venetian Senate then in league with Solyman The Turks hereby justly offended supposing the supplies far greater than they were without command or Ensigne displayed thrust in in great numbers to the new Rampires and Barracadoes with a furious assault many being slain and wounded on both sides but the Turks retired The truce thus broken the bloudy Captain of the Turks Senoeres having taken 3 Christians cut off their hands ears and noses sending them thus with Letters to Villerius charging him with Truce-breach threatning within 3 or 4 dayes to make him the like example to Posterity None was more troubled with this breach than the 3 Knights then Embassadours in the Turks Camp who had been slain or tortured had they not feared the like to their Hostages but two Burgesses being come into the Camp with Articles of surrender their rage was soon appeased Solyman gave them audience beset with his great Army and glistering Janizaries who with great humility presented the conditions The chief were that the Temples should remain to the Christians 〈◊〉 No children to be taken from their Parents nor no Christians forced to turn Turks That such as would tarry in the City might at liberty paying no Tribute for 5 years All others to depart with bag and baggage furnished with convenient Shipping and Provision as far as Creet carrying so much Ordnance as they pleased and a reasonable day to appoint for their departure Solyman solemnly swearing to perform them all but it seems they were not altogether kept nor broken many great out-rages being committed against the mind of Solyman Fontanus a Civilian then a Judge of the City reports the Turks brake in one Christmas-day by the 〈◊〉 Cosqueinium polluting the Temples abusing the Christians and making havock of all things Himself redeeming himself with what money he had not having enough to content all their desires was hardly entreated and grievously beaten Villerius by Achimetes counsel putting on simple attire went out into the Camp with a few Knights where waiting most of the day in the rain at Solyman's Tent at last having a rich Gown cast upon him was brought into his presence where a while piercingly beholding each other the great Master humbling himself was admitted to kiss his hand and welcomed by Solyman thus Though I might justly infringe the Articles with thee especially such a Capital 〈◊〉 c. Yet I have determined to be not only gracious but bountiful promising if thou 〈◊〉 amend the highest places in my Empire in time of War and Peace thy present state perswades thee not to refuse the Christians deserve no better at thy hands For what should let thee as it were betrayed vanquished to cast thy self into the protection of a most merciful and mighty Conquerour Villerius answered Most mighty c. Thy Favours before thy other Worthies I deserve not nor dare I or ought now to refel the same yet I will speak freely in the presence of the Conqueror whose mercy I never despaired of or of his faith doubted I had rather having lost my Soveraignty lose my life or for ever live in obscurity than to be accounted a fugitive for to be a vanquished man is but War's chance and of so great a Conquerour no shame but afterwards to forsake his people
talk with the enemy bending his Artillery upon the Turks and seeing his men timorous he reproved them of cowardise and treason threatning them with shameful death if they held not out to the utmost c. But they misdoubting by the Turks running to and fro that the Castle was undermined at least imagining to smell the sent of Gunpowder were struck with such fear that nought could sâ—ay them but they would needs deliver up the Castle which when they could not perswade the resolute Captain to consent unto but sternly exclaiming against them they bound him hand and foot presently concluding with the enemy to yield so they might depart with bag and baggage and they about 700 about to depart towards Possonium and the Janizaries loosing the Captain were about to let him go also Solyman advertized of their treachery and the Captains fidelity in detestation gave them all to the Janizaries to be slain but offered Nadastus's honourable entertainment which he refusing he courteously sent him away holpen by King Johns commendation though his Sister was married to Stephen Malat his deadly enemy This bloudy execution the Turks said was not onely lawful but also to Solyman's immortal glory in the execution of justice Buda thus taken Solyman resolved forthwith to besiege Vienna the chief City of Austria sending Achomates before him with the Achanzii who running thorow Hungary and entring Austria passed by Vienna miserably burning and destroying as far as Lyntz The poor people fleeing as men and women dismayed carried with them their Children and what else they could for whatever fell into their hands was lost the old men slain the young led captive women ravished before their Husbands faces and then slain with their Children Infants ript out of their Mothers wombs others taken from their breasts were cut in pieces or thrust on sharp stake c. Solyman shortly after following them with all his Army took Altenburg Castle by the way commanding 300 of the Bohemians there in Garrison to follow his Camp He also assaulted the little City Neapolis 7 times in one day still repulsed but he forsook that and came to Vienna Septemb. 26. incamping in 5 places about it with such a multitude that from the highest Tower thereof the ground seemed to be covered 8 miles space with 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 people Ferdinand besides his own forces not 〈◊〉 to oppose so mighty an enemy had craved ayd of Christian Princes his Neighbors chiefly those of the Empire who appointed Frederick Palatine of Rhexe and 〈◊〉 of Bavaria their General but the Germanes after their manner slowly serting forward Solyman the while had so belayed the City that Frederick could not get into 〈◊〉 but stayed with his Army at Chremse about 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 off yet a few dayes before 20000 Horse and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 come to Vienna their chief Commanders being Philip the Palsgrave Fredericks Nephew sent thither a little before by his Uncle with a few Companies of Horse and 〈◊〉 Nicholaus Count of Salma the Lord 〈◊〉 John Cazzianzer a Croatian Noble with four others 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and valour of great account Vienna was somewhat strong toward the North by reason of Danubius but in other places the Ditches were drie easie to be passed the walls of Brick round without Flankers neither high nor thick neither had they as men secure cast up any rampire or Bulwark unless at the Gate of Carinthia so that of 100 great pieces and 300 others lesse a great part were of no use yet as the sudden coming of the enemy gave leave they cast up Bulwarks and planted their Ordnance thereon Abraham Bassa encamped on a Hill where stood a ruinous Castle whence he might overlook all the City yet laying out of danger of Gunshot Becrambeius lay at the Gate Purgatoria toward the Hill's rising lay Michael Ogli At the Scottish gate towards Danubius lay the Asapi with divers Companies of Janizaries who powred such showers of shot and Arrowes into the City that none could appear on the walls without danger or 〈◊〉 in the City unarmed but he was wounded Solyman lay nigh St. Marks Temple compassed with his Janizaries and Court-Souldiers defended also with the brick walls of the Gardens the Defendants sallying often out slew many while thus encamping in one of which sallies Hagen with certain old Spanish Souldiers was slain fighting valiantly at the Castle Gates and in another Zetlitz sallying out with 500 Horse even to their Trenches was taken with six others whom the Turks compelled to carry so many Heads of their slain fellows on poles and so presented to Solyman of whom he enquired many things concerning Ferdinand and where he was and whether the Princes within hoped to defend the City against his power Zetlitz answered though not so truly that Ferdinand lay not far of at Lintz expecting a great Army and that divers Princes were coming to him with great ayd And as for the Princes in the City he knew they and all the Souldiers were solemnly sworn not to give it over to the last man But as for him and the others taken with him they were in his power to kill or save yet he granted them their lives and liberties charging them to wish the Defendants in his name to yield the City which it was impossible for them long to defend against his mighty power c. and to accept before too late of safe departure with bag and baggage for he was resolved not to depart before he had taken it So he sent them away with three Hungarian Duckats a man They being received into the City related the threatnings and proud speeches of the Turk which they so disdamed as to send him no answer whereat he displeased deridingly sent them word if they wanted help he would send them the 300 Bohemians taken in Altenburge Castle who answered they needed none from him therefore he might dispose of his prisoners as he saw good wherefore he began to batter the walls with such Ordnance as he brought with him which being not great did not much harm more than to beat down the battlements of Timber hanging over the walls for small shot to play out of His great Artillery was coming up Danubius but Wolfgangus Hoder going out of Possonium with certain small Vessels set upon the Turks with such resolution that slaying many of them he sunk amongst other Vessels those battering-pieces with the Boats that brought them so losing a few men he returned with Victory the City hereby being delivered of a great danger yet another part of the Turks Fleet at the first coming up to Vienna brake down all the Bridges which joyned divers Islands together made by Danubius over which is the way from Austria unto Vienna and so kept the passage that none by land or water could go in or out without danger Solyman now fell to undermining the City which was with exceeding labour and diligence attempted in 15 places but was perceived by Drums on the ground basons filled with water and
sounds made in the Earth and so met withall by countermines that most were frustrated and 8000 Turks slain or buried quick therein Solyman that they might not so perfectly discover his Mines appointed his Army divided into four parts in order to give the Defendants a continual Alarum whereby his works went forward with all possible speed and one Mine was suddenly blown up shaking and overthrowing much of the wall nigh the Gate leading towards Carinthia whereat the Turks greatly shouting pressed in on all sides by the ruines of the wall charging the Defendants with shot and Arrowes very thick who resolutely standing in the face of the breach so received them with shot and push of Pike that they began to retire whereupon Solyman sent in new supplies but these also receiving a great overthrow retired without any sign of retreat The ground nigh the Town lay covered and the ditches filled with dead Turks Ere long the wall was blown up in two other places by which breach not very great they sought so desperately to enter that they thrust one another upon the point of their enemies Weapons who slew them without number being mostly without Armour enforcing them again disorderly to retire filling the breaches with their dead Carkasses Three dayes after another piece of the Wall not farre from the first breach was so suddenly overthrown that for eagerness on both sides throwing away Guns and Bowes they came to handy-blowes in midst of the breach the Turks with Scimitars the Germanes with long Swords as their Captains encouraged them with chearful perswasions so the Turks Captains forced them forward with words and wounds t was thought a more fierce and deadly fight was never seen for many Turks Horsemen thrust in on foot amongst the rest and fought most desperately At the last after three houres furious fight the Turks seeing no hope retired to their Camp many of their best Captains and Souldiers lying dead by heaps It were tedious to recount every assault in particular yet Lord Rogendorff is not to be forgotten who one day sallyed out with some Troops upon many stragling Turks with such violence that overthrowing them at first on-set and chasing them scarce 140 of 5300 escaped after which his name was terrible to the Turks Solyman exceedingly grieved with his vain assaults purposed to prove the utmost of his forces and calling his chief Commanders at first sharply reproved them as of no courage who had turned their backs in the breaches half won wherefore he counting it a great dishonour to forsake the siege they should resolve next day as Conquerors to take the City or as cowards to end their dayes Next day Octob. 15. they with all their sorces assailed the City thrusting their men by heaps into the breaches as if they would with very multitude have overborn the Christians being at handy blowes the fight was most terrible the Christians still repulsing them whose Ordnance also fitly mounted made such slaughter among the thickest of them that they shrunk back and chose rather to be slain of their own Captains as some were then to be rent in sunder by the murthering shot so that the Captains seeing no remedy retired leaving many thousands dead in the Town-ditches Next day Solyman despairing and fearing Ferdinand and the Count Palatine their coming winter also coming fast on determined to raise the siege to colour which dishonour he sent certain chief prisoners richly appareld and full of money to tell them of the City he came not intending to besiege or take Vienna but to revenge wrongs done him by Ferdinand and to fight with him for the Hungarian Kingdom whom since he could not draw to Vienna he would remove to seek for him wherefore they should yield promising not to enter their City but to receive them all into his protection reserving them their lives goods and freedom which they scornfully refused as proceeding of desperation Next night he slew all the prisoners in his Army which pittiful outcries they heard into the City not knowing what it should be till after his departure they found men women and Children wallowed in their own blood Solyman causing Abraham to shew himself in order as if to give a fresh assault rose himself the while with the rest returningin such 〈◊〉 that he neither garrison'd or demanded tribute of any places taken Abraham following him a dayes journey behind he arrived at Buda in five dayes 32 Germane miles from Vienna He is reported to have lost 80000 men his Lieutenant of Asia being one and many forward Captains Few or none of name of the defendants were lost but of the country above 60000 were thought to be slain and carried captive all about Vienna being miserably spoiled Solyman restored Buda to King John who by writing acknowledged himself his Vassall to whom he joyned Grittus as his legat to help him in providing for that Kingdoms defence While Solyman lay at Buda he was one day earnest with King John to receive the Bishop of Strigonium and Perenus who had taken part with Ferdinand into his former favour who shewing himself unwilling to be intreated said their mutable mindes would never contain themselves within the bounds of loyalty but find occasion to commit some fowler treason whereto Solyman straining his voice a little as somewhat moved replyed Can any thing happen better to thee in this life than for thy enemies by thy kindness to be accounted by all ungrateful c. when as in thee the commendation of a courteous Prince shall for ever remain So fearing the cold of approaching Winter he set forward to Belgrade thence to Constantinople All this while Charls the Emperour lately reconciled to Pope Clement 7th besieged Florence by Davalus labouring to bring them again under the subjection of the Medici's whereof Clement was chief which with much adoe he bringing to passe invested Alexander the Popes Nephew in 〈◊〉 Dukedom And giving him his 〈◊〉 Daughter in marriage forgetting his Brother Ferdinand the 〈◊〉 and Austria 〈◊〉 with Vienna endangered Next year 1520 Solyman with great solemnity circumcised his Sons Mustapha Mahomet and Selimus at Constantinople And hardly digesting the dishonour at Vienna and solicited by John against Ferdinand who with greater stomack still 〈◊〉 him but mostly from an exceeding unsatiable desire of enlarging his Empire he raised an Army purposing chiefly to conquer all Ferdinands Dominions and so all Germany prefining to himself but three years for accomplishment It was reported that he would oft say what belonged to the Roman Empire was of right his he being possessed of the Seat and Scepter of Constantine the great wherefore when he mentioned Charls he would as in disdain terme him King of Spain but never Emperour Christian Princes discord and great troubles then in Germany about Religion not a little encouraged him to his expedition Ferdinand sent him three Embassadors whereof Noble Negarola skilled in divers Languages was chief with rich presents and reasonable offers for
aloud St. James St. James the Spaniards Patron He rescued with his own hand Pontius of Granado who unhorsed and sore wounded was ready to be slain Also 30000 Moores came suddenly to surprise a small Tower on a Hill near Carthages ruines wherein Souldiers were placed for it was near the Camp Before these went a Numidian Priest bellowing out certain Charms and casting abroad scroles of paper wherein he cursed the Christians they brought those in the Tower with fire and smoak to great extremity but the Emperour coming to their rescue flew the Priest with others and put the rest to 〈◊〉 The discomfiture of the Spanish Horsemen made many think that the Emperour's Horse were too weak for a set-battel being but few and inferiour to the Numidians For which cause and divers others some of his Councellors willed him to proceed no farther in that dangerous Warre but speedily to return since he had won honour enough by taking Guletta and the enemies Fleet but he gave them a resolute answer to the contrary willing them to cease further to 〈◊〉 him no way dismayd or to possess his valiant Souldiers with a vain fear and resolutely against next day with him to expect the fortune of the field for a full accomplishment who was set down to give battel or he enemy refusing to batter the Walls of Tunis not doubting but God would stand by him in so good and godly a quarrel So garrisoning Guletta and repairing its breaches laying the Ordnance on Carriages which before lay bound in unweldy pieces of Timber with Iron rings Then causing the Country to be well viewed which betwixt the Olive Groves and the right side of the lake passeth directly to Tunis he set forward with his Army in so good an order as still ready to fight and in his Armour he rode from squadron to squadron cheerfully and hopefully recounting the former Victories they had got for him telling them he that day expected of them a most honourable day's service seeing they were to fight against the naked enemies of the Christian Religion and to resolve to endure all difficulties till they might joyn battel with their enemies where they should undoubtedly by Gods goodnesse obtain the Victory comforting themselves the while with the sure hope of a most rich prey of a rich City They all answered with a great shout he should not trouble himself with those matters for they would patiently endure all extremities and by a valiant fight make him Emperour not of Africk but Asia also Vastius made General chiefly for that day withdrew two Spanish Companies of Harquebusiers to skirmish with the Moors following in their Rear whom by those and some Troops of Horse the Duke of Alba notably repulsed The Army being come to the 〈◊〉 which Muleasses and others had told them of the extream thirsty Souldiers descrying them afar off forsook their Colours and ran as fast as they could unto them Vastius laboured in vain by fair and fowl means to stay them a great advantage being by that disorder offered to the enemy not far off The Emperour himself hasted thither to keep them in order yet such was their intolerable thirst that he could not remedy the disorder some 〈◊〉 in the sands for lack of drink and some ready to burst their bellies at the Fountains so that he beat them away with his Truncheon One Cicero of Arpinas a famous Captain died there with over drinking This extremity seemed just for Vastius had the day before commanded every Souldier to carry a bottle of Wine or Water at his girdle though he caused what water he could conveniently to be carried in Casks for common relief the Germans having the most Some ready to give over bought a draught of water of their fellows for two Duckats The Army being brought into order Charls held on his march for Barbarussa coming with a great multitude of Horse and Foot and a number of Ensigns gallantly displayed about 3 miles from Tunis and some Field-pieces went about to break the Christian's Battel those Pieces doing little or no hurt through the Cannoniers unskilfulnesse Vastius had likewife commanded the Ordnance to be brought into the Front but perceiving what toyl and time it required He told the Emperour he thought it not best to stay for them every man desiring Battel lest staying too long upon their great Ordnance their enemies should gather courage and the Souldiers cheerfulnesse grow cold The Emperour cheerfully answered If thou think good I like it well In Gods Name give the Signal That I shall said he but first 't is reason that thou which swayest a great part of the world at this time obey me whom thou for this day hast made General of so mighty an Army wherefore since I may not request I command thee to get into the middle of the Battel lest by some unlucky shot the whole Army be extreamly endangered by the danger of one mans life Charls smiling willed him not to fear it saying Never Emperour was yet slain with a gun yet he went into the middle of the Battel The Signal given by Trumpet and Drum the enemy was furiously charged by his Horsmen who to avoid the Artillery made all haste to come to handy-blows Noble and valiant Gonzaga being somewhat foremost at the first onset slew with his Launce a notable Moorish Captain with his sword so troubling those next him that he opened a way to break into the enemies Battel the Harquebufiers also discharged so fast that 300 of them lay dead before Battel was joyned whereupon the other Footmen fled back from their Ordnance to Barbarussa who not long enduring the Christians force or fight but grinding his teeth for grief retired with his Turks into Tunis 〈◊〉 himself with hope out of his enemies foreseen distresses to take some fit advantage if he could but a while defend the City the Numidians and Moors retired also into the Suburbs and other places near The Emperour glad of his enemies flight thought to be a 100000 encamped that night where they before lay determining next day to batter Tunis's walls Barbarussa exceedingly surprized with fear and distracted with cares purposed to kill all the Christian-captives in the Castle but Sinan the Jew for divers reasons disswaded him from that most execrable fact Solyman using to derest and revenge such outrages who living bound in Chains if they should lust after their unlucky liberty 〈◊〉 neither give victory to the enemy nor take it from him or hinder it and might shortly serve him to good purpose whereat he ashamed went out of the Castle assembling all the chief of the City into the biggest Temple telling them what he would have done for defence and encouraging them to fight from whom a little before Charls his coming he had taken all kind of arms A constant report of a danger so eminent run even in the Dungeons of the Castle by some manumissed slaves who had in heart returned to their old Christian
Religion secretly encouraging the chief Captives with whom they were acquainted to lay hold on their liberty two of whom Francis a Spaniard and Caterus a Dalmatian Eunuch adventured to open the prison-doors giving Instruments to the poor prisoners who boldly brake off their chains and Gyves and so about 6000 Christians armed with what came first to hand chiefly with stones brake forth suddenly upon the Turks in the Castle Ramadas the runagate Captain stirred up with the terrible noise with a few Souldiers ran to the gate where a lusty Cicilian prisoner had with a bar thereof struck down one or two of the Warders and bolted the Gate Ramadas 〈◊〉 him went forth with his few followers carrying news to Barbarussa the Christians now loosed slaying divers Turks possessed all the Castle and breaking open the Armory gave signs from a Turret to the Christian Army by smoak and false fires of Gunpowder Lastly displaying Sarmentus his Ensign taken by Tabacches as aforesaid they were too far off well to perceive these signes yet by fugitives comming oft out of Tunis Charls and Muleasses were perswaded some great tumult was risen wherefore 2 Captains with their Companies were sent to discover the matter Barbarussa the while in his fury blaspheming his gods and bitterly curling the Jew came to the Castle-gate with tears in his eyes requesting the late-captives forthwith to let him in faithfully promising them liberty with a general pardon but they 〈◊〉 stones at him with many opprobrions words rejected him So that he enraged shot at them himse f betaking himself to flight 7000 Turks following him intending to flee to the Citty Hippona now Bona for there had Barbarussa left 14 Galleys against any mischance having laid up their furniture in the Garrison'd Castle fast by the Lake Charls hearing of his flight came to the gates the Magistrates being ready to submit only requesting that his Sculdiers might encamp without the City and not seek the utter ruine thereof promising they should want nothing there to be had Muleasses also earnestly entreating him in the Citizens behalf but he doubting not without cause the Moors fidelity they also delaying the Souldiers promised wages expecting the utmost of Barbarussa he could not be perswaded to promise them certain safety moved also by the Souldiers discontenred speeches Whilst the Emperour stood thus in doubt Vastius came with a few to the Castle gate and was joyfully received in by the Captives but whilst he viewed the wealth and provision a Ligurian-captive discovered to him a Well wherein Barbarussa had cast 30000 Duckats in bags which he easily obtained of Charls as well deserving them The Captives taking the Castle 's spoyl the Army would enter the City running after the spoyl the Citizens in vain calling upon the faith of Muleasses They slew many at first entrance the Spaniards and Italians seeking most after spoyl but the Germans filled all places with dead Mahometans not regarding sex or age their Temples swimming with the blood of those fled into them which continued till Charls through Muleasse's pittiful request proclaimed None on pain of death to hurt any Citizen or take prisoners For all that many young men and women were by the Marriners carried away to the Fleet many of whom Muleasses redeemed for a little money one of his Wives the dearest being ransomed for two Duckats The Emperour entring the Castle commended the captives giving them money promising them shipping and provision to bring every man to his own Countrey unto the manumissed servants he gave money and apparel learning of them of Barbarussas's purposes and secret disposition In the Castle 's spoyl Muleasses chiefly lamented the loss of the old Arabian books containing the interpretation of Mahomet's Law and his Predecessours Acts which losse he said he would most gladly if possible have redeemed with the price of a City then the pretious oyntments and perfumes with the great store of Ambetgreece Musk and Civet Lastly the rare and rich Colours for painting trodden under foot Here were divers Head-pieces and other Armour of the French laid up in memory of the Moors Victorie who with King Lewis had besieged it about 300 years before Barbarussa easily passed over the River Bagrada or Maior-dech though pursued by certain Namidian horse raised by Muleasses who dared not come near him for his Harquebusiers and Archers in the rear and so came to Hippona yet he lost Haiden of Smyrna in that passage who died on the bank with drinking so much resting his men two dayes He called them together comforting them with good words and perswading them c. for he determined he said to go with the Fleet he had to Algiers where he would being recruited undertake some Attempt answerable to their desires and his own credit It 's reported Never was vanquished Captain answered with a more cheerful acclamation than he then was Wherefore he most speedily weighed up those sunk Galleys furnishing them against all assayes casting upon the Lake's-brink a Mount with Artillary for defence of the Harbour not vainly conjecturing that the Christian Fleet would come to impeach his going out And indeed Adam a German Captain of no great skil yet the Admiral 's Kinsman was appointed with some Gallions and 14 Galleys to set forward towards Hippona hoping to purchase great honour of the unproviced enemy but being come near Hippona he was advertised what Barbarussa had done Whereat he greatly troubled upon good advice returned to the Fleet for more aid Barbarussa a while doubting whether to pursue them more in number than his own Galleys or to persist in his former purpose unto which opinion the Captains inclining he letting slip a fair occasion leaving a small Garrison in the Castle sayled to Algiers Adam being returned many great ones were exceedingly offended that by some's negligence and others unrulinesse going ashear without leave so fair an occasion was neglected for had those Galleys been sunk or taken Barbarussa could not have escaped it being verily thought the Numidians the Turks deadly enemies would in advantagious places have cut off him and his followers in his long and painful travail by land to Algiers Auria angry both with himself those entrusted yet not out of hope went to Hippona but Barbarussa gone he took the City overthrowing its walls but taking the Castle by force he placed Gometius with a Garrison and so returned This Gometius though valiant became so infamous for avarice towards enemy and friend that for fear how to answer such things he executed himself the Castle being afterwards razed as not without marvellous charge to be kept after which a Council being held touching Muleasses Charls placed him in his Kingdom to pay him yearly as tribute 2 Faulcons and 2 Numid an 〈◊〉 also ever to honour the Emperour and be a friend to all Christians and an utter enemy to the Turks and to defray the charges of above 1000 Spaniards left in Guletta whereby he as it were kept the Keys
him promised Revalius the Enemies Marshal to open a blind Postern in St. Maries yard whereby he might enter Regendorffe so liked thereof that he thought not good to use the service of the Hungarians therein against the request of Bornemissa that many guiltless people might not be slaughtered by the Germans but he hoping by excluding the Hungarians to have all the glory of the Victory to himself made as if he would use the Hungarians glosing with Revalius whose Sonne he took as a pledge About midnight he sent four Select Companies of Germanes with great silence to the Postern his Sonne Condi standing ready to enter with a strong Troop when the Germans let in should break open the great Gate Bornemissa opening the Postern had silently received in most of them but still asking softly for Revalius and they answering in the German Tongue he was so surprized with fear that as amazed he forgot to conduct the Germans who knew not which way first to go stealing on softly for fear of treason still asking for their Guide but by their matches and noyse of Armour being 〈◊〉 yed by the Watch they not giving the Word an Alarum was raised who ignorant of the way and now chased with their own fear ran back to the Postern in such haste that they sadly wrung each other in getting out And the passage being much letted by the Weapons of the first cast acrosse the way to run the lighter Bacianus who had charge of the watch first set upon them then Vicche from the Market place came thither with a strong company many of the valiantest Germans were slain or taken some being Bornemissa's Friends himself being got out with the foremost whom the Bishop by torture wrung the plot out of then executing them Revalius Bornemissa lamenting that besides the name of a Traitour he had lost all and undone his Friends and Kindred Regendorff condemned even of the common Souldiers for his foolish pride c. from that time set him down by long siege to win the City Solyman hearing of the Queen's distress in Hungaria consulted with his Bassaes of the purposes and power of his enemies there and elswhere and sent first Solyman Bassa to Babylon to defend Mesopotamia and his Frontiers along Tygris against Tamas the Persian King sending Mahometes Bassa into Hungaria and after him Ustreff Bassa with another Army to stay at Belgrade in readinesse to ayd Mahometes upon occasion committing his Navy to Barbarussa for defence of Greece and Epirus against Auria who a little before had driven the Turks and Moors out of 5 Cities and all along the Coast of Africk called Mahomedia except Leptis now called Africa causing those Cities to submit to Muleasses of Tunis And because Maylat the Vayuod took part with Ferdinand he sent against him Achomates Governour of Nicopolis commanding Peter of Moldavia Prince of Vallachia to ayd him who came with 30000 Horsmen Himself also doubting more of the Christian Princes purposes than he needed raised a third Army about Hadrianople to ayd Mahometes and Ustreff keeping with him his son in law Rustan made 1 of his 4 great Bassaes having thrust out Luftibeius or Lutzis as aforesaid but at this time done Mahometes entring Hungaria about the midst of June 1541. took along with him the other Mahometes Governour of Belgrade joyning with him the power of Bosna under Ulemas the Persian for old Ustreff was lately dead The Christians now consulted whether to continue the siege or go meet them and joyn battel but Regendorff prevailed for continuing the siege though divers perswaded him to crosse the River to Pesth or retire to Vicegrade or Strigonium Wherefore removing he encamped on the further side of the City at the foot of Gerrard's Mount where the Hill leaveth a fair Plain toward the East that the Turks whom he knew would not go far from their Fleet and the river should be forced to pass by his great Ordnance aptly placed on the Front of his Trenches On the right hand on a small rising ground he placed the lesser Camp of Hungarians making also a bridge from his Camp into a small Island in the River and with a Fort commanded both the River and Plain to beat their Fleet coming up and themselves marching in the Plain The Turks being come nigh the City Valentinus Thuraccus met them with 2000 Horse instructing them what the Christians did what their strength and the most conveniently to encamp Wherefore the Bassa boldly came within half a Mile of the Christian Camp strongly intrenching himself round but Mahometes of Belgrade politiquely took the higher ground next the Hungarians Tents The Christian Fleet had 24 Galleots about 80 small Pinnaces and little lesse than 100 ships of burden and other small boats the Turks Fleetnot thought above half so great Near the little Island aforesaid had the Turks taken the Island Sepelia over against their own Camp where casting up a great Bulwark they thence shot at the Fort in the little Island and at their vessels in the River as the Christians did at them Cepelia layeth about 40 miles long in Danubius full of Villages so commodiously that if Regendorff had at first fortified it as he was perswaded the Turks could not have encamped in the Plain to their great disadvantage but he was not willing to divide his Forces till he had some new supply from Ferdinand The Armies thus laying there were light skirmishes every day and sometime one brave man challenging forth another hand to hand which was so pleasant to behold that both Armies many times would forbear to shoot to see those prove their manhood on each other with spears and swords only In which skirmishes the Germans were oft put to the worst by reason of their heavy Horses fitter for a set-battel but the Hungarians acquainted with the Turks manner of fight and better Armed did foyl them though more in number Noble Rayschachius a German his valiant son going forth unknown to his Father bare himself so galiantly against the enemy in his Father's and Armie's sight that he was highly commended chiefly of his Father yet was he encompassed and slain Rayschachius moved with his death said to the other Captains This worthy Gentleman whoever he be deserves eternal commendation and to be most honourably buried by the whole Army As the other Captains were approving his speech the dead body was presented to the Father all there present shedding tears but Rayschachius was so struck at heart that standing a while speechlesse with his eyes set he suddenly fell down dead After which the General commanded none on pain of death to skirmish without leave hanging one or two for so doing So that the enemy would sometimes brave them on the top of their own Trenches Many dayes having now passed the Turks and Budians daily encreased in strength and courage when on the other side the contrary Only the often Letters of Ferdinand and the firm opinion that Charls would not
sending forth supplies forced them disorderly to retire losing 4 Captains 2 Ensigns had not Vitellius with one troop valiantly repulsed the Janizaries the loss had been much more Vitellius exceeingly grieved and perceiving their manner of fight encouraged his Souldiers requesting Perenus to be ready to joyn with him upon occasion and going out of the Kings walled-Orchards where he lay encamped with 12 Companies he commanded the rest to stand ready at all assays so fetching a compass marched toward the City The proud enemy speedily sallying out couragiously charged them whom Vitellius covering his shot with his pikes stand standing close received by whose shot oft on their knees many Turks were laid on ground while they desperately sought to break their order when many Turks had come out of the gates and divers come over from Buda to partake of the Victory Vitellius of purpose by little and little retired then the enemy with a great shout began more fiercely to assayl them their Horse also clapping behind them whereupon Perenus suddenly clapt in with his Light-horse betwixt the City and Turks after whom followed Mauritius about 20 years old afterward Duke of Saxonie with a strong troop of Germans The Turks thus shut in began to retire Vitellius coming on charged them fiercely and the Horse breaking in on tother side made great slaughter of them who run to the gates in such fear that many thrust each other thorow with their pikes divers being driven into the River and drowned a 100 Janizaries and 400 others being lost Mauritius having his Horse slain under him was in danger to be lost had not Ribische covered him with his own body till rescued Ribische presently dying of his wounds The battery was now presently planted at first so far off doing little harm though the walls were old and thin the Ordnance also mislaid either shot short or quite over the City the battery being removed nearer a fair Breach was soon made in the wall Vitellius first offered to assault it so the Germans would presently second him which they all by holding up their hands promised couragiously but cowardly by and by about to break the same the Hungarians also promising not to be behind Segemenes receiving new supplyes from Ulames had cast a deep Countermure against the Breach and within that a strong Barricado with Vessels filled with sand and earth behind which stood the Souldiers in order with so much silence that many thought they had been fled over to Buda The signal given 4 Italian Captains ran with their Companies to the Breach but while they set up their Ensignes and wondring at the Fortification were ready to leap down they were suddenly overwhelmed with Arrows and Bullets yet Vitellius encouraging them brought them still on but the German Foot with their General stood still under the walls the Hungarians retiring without looking on the enemy 2 Italian Captains were slain and Vitellius his Nephew shot in the shoulder The Turks repulsed and beat down the Italians the idle Germans being more galled than one would have thought for there they still stood for shame Wherefore Vitellius would in no case depart from the breach that the Germans might not say they stayed longest of whom he complained he was cowardly betrayed A Turk spake 〈◊〉 in the Italian Tongue Why do not you valiant Italians spare your selves and give place to those lasie Germans We all wish to spare you and to beat the drunkenness out of their most cowardly heads that they should no more hereafter provoke us At length the Germans weary got farther off the Italians forthwith retiring but very disorderly to be out of danger of shot 700 were there slain and many more hurt who afterwards dyed of their wounds All this while the Marquesse and Huganot were not to be seen till two valiant Captains finding them out wished them for shame to appear to comfort the Army who consulted whether to forsake or continue the siege most of the German Captains liking to be gone though Vitellius others spake earnestly against it but a Spy then bringing news either faigned or vainly believed that Achomates was coming to Dravus the Germans resolsolved to return to Vienna which made many old German Souldiers hang their heads for shame and the Hungarians to curse the Germans and the hard fortune of their Nation vainly wishing for a more couragious General Segemenus early in the morning sent out all the Horsmen and after them some Foot-companies for a relief in retiring who skirmishing with the Hungarians in many places many of the most notable Souldiers on either side regarded no other enemy but him whom every one had singled out to encounter hand to hand A notable Turk desired to see Vitellius who being shewed to him he ran to embrace him for his Honour and departed About 500 Horse encountred hand to hand many being slain or hurt The Turks perceiving the Christians to be departed the night following sallyed out upbraiding them aloud of cowardise and hardly pursuing their rear Ulames come from Buda so eagerly followed them that Vitellius made a stand requesting the German and Hungarian Horsmen to turn upon them who put Ulames to flight slaying many in chase then they passed on quietly Yet 700 sick and stragling Germans were slain in sight of their fellows who thrice soyled by the Turks returned full of heavinesse The Army coming to Vienna was broke up and the Italian's sent home who most dyed by the way of Infection taken in the Camp But to cover the shame of this unfortunate Expedition Perenus was pickt out to fill mens mouths with who through envy of the Court was for suspition of aspiring the Kingdom of Hungary by Ferdinands command apprehended in the Castle of Strigonium as a Traitour and delivered to Medices to be conveyed up the river to Vienna Liscanus the Spaniard apprehending him took from him his rich Chain and Cloak whereupon above 12000 Hungarians presently returned home cursing the Germans to the Devil Perenus was one of the greatest Peers of Hungary but most haughty and Magnificent sometimes having almost a 100 goodly Horses led before him without Riders and speaking too freely against the barrennesse of Ferdinand's Court who polled by his Courtiers hardly maintained his State Wherefore the other great Courtiers conspiring his overthrow would also point at him saying He savoured of a Crown Who as he had many Vertues so was not causelesly noted of ambition and unconstancy as is before declared First it was given out that his son who had many years been detained in Solyman's Court as a pledge of his Fathers fidelity was then under colour of a feigned escape come into Transilvania agreeing with Solyman that his Father should by promising them all freedom allure them to Turkish subjection for which he should be made Governour of Hungary and in hope to be made Tributary King if the Child should die Besides he had very suspitiously the Winter before sent the
Tents covered the places round about and brought a 〈◊〉 Fleet up the River every man began to doubt of his own safety This fear was encreased by Messengers from Solyman who hearing of what Nations the Garrison consisted sent three Renegates of his Guard a Spaniard Italian and German to speak to their Countreymen in their own Language They offered great rewards and 〈◊〉 to such as would yield in time denouncing all torture and extremities to those who endured the Summons of a Cannon It was answered by the Captains those faithful and valiant Souldiers were not to be won with Gifts nor terrified with threats The same day the Ordnance was planted on the Hill before the Gate and all the weakest 〈◊〉 of the Walls so well pickt out to be assaulted that it s to be thought the Christians wanted faith among themselves Salamanca d strusting the Suburb's Fortifications retired into the City contrary to what he had boasted Achomates 〈◊〉 that part next the Bishop's Gardens Ulames the Towre next the Gate toward Buda the Asapi were brought on to dig Trenches and cast up Mounts the 〈◊〉 was so discharged without 〈◊〉 that the Towre with much of the Wall near it fell down as if shaken with a terrible Earth-quake the 〈◊〉 Janizaries also fetching off any man that stood on the Walls many further off being grievously wounded with Arrowes falling from high and the 〈◊〉 broken with the great shot killed or maimed the Souldiers near hand wherefore they forsook the uttermost Wall casting up new Fortifications within The enemy also thrice desperately assailed the breach but still with losse repulsed Bultazes Sanzack of Selymeria a man of great account being lost Many the while who came up the River with necessaries for the Army went ashoare and lay in the Suburbs with great security wherefore they in the City suddenly sallying out slew many before they could arm driving the rest to their Fleet so that there was about 200 slain Zymar the Persian Admiral in rescuing them being slain with a small shot While the Turks did with greater force daily assail the City and the 〈◊〉 despairing of relief more and more discouraged an old Calabrian Engineer fled out to the Turks who satisfied them in all their questions directing them in planting their batteries in the most convenient places It fortuned that a gilt Brazen Crosse on the Steeple of the Cathedrall was by the Turk 's shooting thereat at length beaten down wherefore Solyman is reported taking it as a token of good luck presently to cry out Strigonium is won Liscanus and Salamanca secretly conferring together resolved to give up the Town for Liscanus was no great Souldier yet by spoil exceeding rich and therefore thought it folly to buy the name of resolute Captain with the losse of life and wealth the like feeling was also in Salamanca This secret purpose was noised among the Souldiers a third part being slain or weak with wounds or sickness yet they thought generally they were able still to 〈◊〉 the Town but the under-Captains c. flatteringly liked the motion rather to yield on reasonable termes than to expose themselves to most certain death and not better Ferdinands cause Ere long an Auncient was by night let down over the Wall and receiving the Turk's faith called forth Salamanca who coming out went to Achomates commanding before he went them who defended the Water-Towre of great danger for safety of their lives to get into the City who hastily retiring the vigilant Turks suddenly breaking in slew such as were not gone possessing the Castle but Salamanca when he had stood upon many nice termes with the Bassaes obtained onely without delay to yield and put themselves wholly on Solyman's mercy so being there stayed he wrote to Liscanus how he sped wishing him if he loved his safety to yield the City without further termes Liscanus hereupon declared to the Souldiers the necessity of yielding up and what hope of life and liberty but whilest the angry Souldiers stood as in a doubt Halis Commander of the Janizaries came not sternly requiring the Gate to be opened to him according to Salamanca's agreement which was done and the keys delivered to him they entring peaceably possessed themselves of the Walls and fortresses chusing all the beardless youths out of the Souldiers commanding the rest to cast down their Weapons in a place appointedw hich they did expecting nothing but some cruel execution which fear was the more increased by a strange accident for while with their Harquebusses they cast their flasks of powder also one of them suddenly took fire of a match which firing the rest blew abroad that heap of Weapons among the Janizaries whereupon they slew divers Christians till Halis perswaded 't was rather by chance than malice commanded them to stay their fury Then he proclaimed that all Christians who would serve Solyman should have places answerable with large entertainment yet were there but seventy which accepted the offer for fear of their lives whom Halis sent down the River with the culled out youths to Buda the other helped the Turks to cleanse the Castle but Liscanus was glad to give Halis the Chain of Gold he took from Perenus he requiring it as of military courtesie a strange Ornament with the Turks hoping thereby to save his other Coyn but when the covetous Coward was about to depart with his Horses of service and Saddles cunningly stuffed full of Gold the Turk laughing at him took them also so furnished saying He who was to go by water needed no Horses The rest were conveighed over Danubius travelling to Possonium where Count Salma by Ferdinand's Command committed Liscanus and Salamanca and some others to custody to answer their cowardly yielding up the City which Solyman entred Aug. 10. 1543 and turning the Christian Temples into Mahometane first sacrificed for his Victory as before at Buda and speedily so fortified it as if to take away all hope of recovery thereof deriding the Germans negligence who keeping it 14 years had not fortified it Solyman leaving Ossainus Governour there sent his Tartarian Horse to spoil the Countrey as farre as Alba Regalis going himself to besiege Tatta Castle 〈◊〉 terrified Souldiers upon the first Summons yielded and quietly departed the Castle the Turks keeping their Provinces under by few but very strong holds being presently rased to the ground Torniellus causing Hanniball the Captain to lose his head for his cowardly yielding up his charge thereby to admonish others Solyman marched thence to 〈◊〉 Regalis which stands more into the Land than Buda and Strigonium strongly seated in midst of a Lake but not so wholsomly especially in Summer From the City thorow the Lake lay three broad and high Causies built with fair Houses and Gardens on each side at the end of every Causey toward the Land were strong Bulwarks which the Citizens used not to watch but in dangerous times of Warre the City thus standing and compassed about with a
the City so he returned towards Constantinople some Captives almost every hour being cast dead overboard who were all shut close up together among their excrements all detesting the hatred betwixt Charls and Francis the grounds of these and thousands of other calamities He arriving at Constantinople in beginning of Autumne 1544 was honourably received of Solyman and highly commended for his good service Solyman while tryumphing for his good successe in Hungary was advertized of the death of his eldest and dearest Sonne Mahomet whose body was brought from Magnesia and with exceeding solemnity and mourning buried at Constantinople Solyman not onely built him a stately Tombe but a Temple called the Temple of Mahomet the lesser annexing thereto a Monastery and Colledge with many things more for the health of his soul. After which he ceased from Warres two years in which time Francis the French King died also Barbarussa of great years and Fame in 1547 buried at his own House called Bejactas about four miles from Pera on Europe side where he at one time sold about 16000 Captives from Corcyra he there also built a Mahometan Temple yet with his Sepulchre to be seen that place was called Jasonium about which time also famous Vastius at 45 years old died of conceit at which time Charls the Emperour concluded a peace with Solyman for five years Ferdinand being included which was broken by Solyman at the request of Henry the French King before its expiration Ercases Imirza King of Sirvan through the often injuries of his Brother Tamas the Persian King fled to Solyman craving ayd against him Solyman glad of the occasion used him with all courtesie promising to take his quarrel upon him And making all things ready he passed into Asia entring at last into Armenia besieging the City Van yielded to him after 10 〈◊〉 on condition that the Persian Souldiers might with life liberty and Arms depart Thence he sent his chief Commanders to burn and spoil the enemies Countrey who running far strove as it were who should do most harm Imirza being as forward therein as any presenting the richest things he got to Solyman to draw him on still in that Warre but Tamas without shewing any power had as he was wont withdrawn his people far into the Mountain-Countrey leaving nothing behind but the bare ground so that the farther the Turks went the more they wanted without hope of better success than formerly wherefore the Captains and Souldiers to end such a War taken in hand for anothers good consulted either to kill Imirza or disgrace him with Solyman some cunningly filling Solyman's Head with distrust of Imirza's treacherous dealing and others Imirza's with fear of danger he was in they perswading the Hare to flee and the Hounds to follow Imirza doubting some sudden mischief fled to a Chaldean Prince his old acquaintance who treacherously sent him in bonds to Tamas who glad cast him in prison and there murthering him that none should in his behalf prosecute the Warre or by his meanes hope for Victory Solyman was occupied a year and 9 moneths in this expedition the Turks enduring great troubles and hard distresses by the Persians till he weary returned to Constantinople having got neither honour nor profit In the mean time one Raises a notable Turkish Pirate craftily surprizing the City Africa in Tunis and also Mahomedia there setled himself exceedingly troubling the Christians by sea and land chiefly those trading in the Mediterranean so that the Emperour moved commanded the Viceroy of Sicily and Anria to leavy a sufficient power to represse him before he grew stronger Whereupon they ayded also by the Knights of Malta passed into Africk besieging the City and making it saultable with battery and hearing that Raises was coming to relieve it they speedily assaulted it by sea and land taking it in few hours Sept. 10. 1550. many enemies being slain the rest taken Auria considering the City was not without excessive charge to be holden there razed it to the ground carrying away 7000 Captives and all its spoil doing also all harm he could with fire and sword all along the coast that the Turks might find no relief taking 12 prisoners out of Monasterium and returning to Sicily Raises thrust out of all 〈◊〉 with a few to Solyman and so incensed him with complaint of the wrong that he resolved to make War upon the Emperour and Ferdinand though the 5 years-League was not expired So comforting up the Pirate the spring following 1551. he furnished him with a great warlike Fleet 140 Sail Sinan Bassa commanding in chief who arriving in Sicily suddenly surprized the Town and Castle of Augusta which they sacked Thence they came to Malta landing their men in the Port of Marza or Moxet battering the Castle with Ordnance to no great purpose yet some Turks running farther up made havock of all in their way A few dayes thus spent and they valiantly repulsed and in other places by Ambushments c. cut off they removed to Paul's Road landing their Ordnance to besiege the City but perceiving small hope and their men dyng through the extream heat they went to the little Isand Goza 5 miles off westward subject to the Knights miserably spoiling it and carrying away of all sorts 6300 captives whence they sailed to Tripolis in Barbary then kept by the Knights of Malta given them by Charls for taking whereof landing their Forces they drew as near it as they could by long-winding Trenches not without great loss for they of the Castle with continual great shot often enforced them to retire yet they came at last within 800 paces of the walls where the Bassa by night planting his battery next day Aug. 8. the Canon began to play and was answered with the like every hour some of the Turks being slain 4 of their best Canoniers were that day slain with others of good account the well-beloved Clerk General having his Hand shot off breaking one of their best peeces and dismounting four others which made them that day to leave the battery Next night they approached nearer the Christians in day-break sallying out to their very Trenches and so retired The Turks at Sun-rising renewed a more forcible Battery but the fire happening into their powder 30 were burnt many hurt and one piece broken At length the Turks continuing a furious Battery within 150 paces of the wall made a fair Breach but they repairing by night what was beat down by day it was not to be assaulted Yet a corrupted Souldier fleeing out of the Castle declared to the Bassa the weakest places thereof ispecially that against the Governours Lodging which standing toward the Ditch and Cellars to retire the Ammunition into underneath it could not if battered be well repaired or fortified Wherefore the Bassa laying the pieces low did easily so beat the Cellars that the rampiers above the walls greatly sunk which so amazed the Souldiers that they requested the Governour since the matter began to
Travel This peace held firm till the death of Ferdinand who about two years after July 25. died being 60 years old in 1564. In whose place succeeded Maximilian his son Then began the Emperour's Captains on one side and the Turk's Captains with the Vayuod of Transilvania on the other to surprize strong Holds in each others confines in Hungary Melchior Balas first surprized certain Towns on the frontiers about Transilvania in revenge whereof the Vayuod set upon Sackmarin the Emperours Territory which he took with Balas his Wife and Children wherefore Balas ransacked and burnt 〈◊〉 a great Town of the Vayuods Ere long the Vayuod aided with 4000 Turks and 3000 Moldavians did much hurt on the Emperours Frontiers in Hungary taking Hadad and besieging Ungar wherefore Maximilian sent Suendi with 8000 men besieging and taking the Castle of Tokay Feb. 5th 1565. and afterward rich Erden Solyman the while to stay the Emperours proceedings till he had better leisure to be revenged for he was then preparing for Malta sent Lilinesius a Renegate Transilvanian his Embassador to Maximilian to minde him of the League with his Father c. Whereupon he commanded Transilvania nor the Turk's part of Hungary to be no more invaded yet while this Embassadour was at Vienna the Bassa of Temeswar made divers incursions besieging Jula Castle with 6000 men many Turks coming daily into Transilvania Then also Suendi by Messengers wished the Emperour not to give credit to the Turks Embassador who under colour of peace sought but to take him suddenly unprovided But in June the Transilvanians besieged Erden before taken by the Imperialls and after two moneths had it yielded to them Chernovich also the Emperour's Embassadour returning from Constantinople assured him that the Turks meant nothing indeed but Warres greatly preparing by Sea and Land Whereupon he raised new forces divers Nobles coming to him with their followers and Romerus a Knight of Malta and divers of his Brethren sent by Rochenheim their grand Prior in Germany and then confirmed a Prince of the Empire The Turks being then busie upon the borders of Stiria and thereabouts were oft cut off by Charls the Arch-Duke upon advantage 〈◊〉 3000 at one time yet was the Turk's Embassador at Vienna intreating for peace and so cunningly that Salma a valiant Captain having corrupted the Judge and others of Alba Regalis to have betrayed it giving their Wives and Children as Hostages and was on his way from Rab but 8 miles off was by Post-letters called back by the Emperour for corrupting the hope of peace the Turks afterwards of 40 of the conspirators impaled some on sharp stakes hanging others on Iron hooks by the jawes till they were dead The Turks shortly after took Neostat which was ere long recovered again At the same time a Turkish Spie was taken at Zigeth who was sent from Constantinople to view its strength and scituarion who said before the Arch-Duke that Solyman would personally come at Spring to besiege the Castles of Zigeth and Jula Count Serinus took also other spies by whom he was advertized of Solyman's coming besides the CountreyContributors to both parties were straightly commanded to pay no more Contribution to the Imperials whereupon what Suendi had often written was easily gathered to be true Also the Turks made daily incursions into the Emperours Territories wherefore being also warned by many letters put strong Garrisons into his Frontier-Towns chiefly Rab and Zigeth but he likewise resolved to call against the next year a general Assembly of the Princes of the Empire at Augusta for the better withstanding of the common Enemy Solyman at that time in revenge of the manifold injuries done to his Subjects by the Knights of Malta made great preparation by Sea and Land whereunto he was much incited by Barbarussa's Son King of Algiers and Dragut of Tripolis and having understood in what forwardness things were he called a great Assembly of his chief men making known his minde in a speech for the invasion of Malta calling the Knights crossed Pirats whom utterly to root he thought by God and his Prophets favour he had now obtained leisure which he wished for alwayes 40 years neither could any thing happen more pleasing or honourable than before he died to win Malta and leave all things in order in Hungary and Polonia But some will say saith he Malta is nearer Italy than the Rhodes Syria or Jerusalem whence ayd may be easily sent c. Believe me they will never fight with us at Sea who have been there so often by us overthrown nor can so small a place contain any great Garrison or if it could could it long feed them c. After the matter well considered and they which best knew the strong Holds and manners of the Malteses had declared what they thought most expedient it was decreed speedily to set forward John Valetta a Frenchman Grand Master being adverrized hereof by his fit Intelligencers at Constantinople was not afraid but assembling his Knights briefly said The enemy with his insatiable ambition strength and mortal hate against them and the Christians name was known wherefore they should by amendment of life and religious worshipping of God first reconcile themselves to Him by which meanes their Ancestors obtained many Victories against the Infidels in the East but since God usually helped not the negligent and sloathful they must joyn those helps which their profession and the course of War required consisting in themselves and other Christian Princes saying The cruel Tyrant should feel the sting of the Crosse which he so much contemned even in Constantinople and his Houses of pleasure for saith he we shall not have to do with him now in the Island of Rhodes far from help of friends ' inclosed with enemies by Sea and Land but in the eyes of Italy and Spain in strong places whence the enemy may be easily circumvented for which let us not cease to pray unto Almighty God This said all present promised rather to lose their lives than to fail the cause or come into Solyman's power Then was publique prayer made throughout the Isle and three most expert Colonels chosen diligently to provide for all Warlike necessaries by whose appointment also the supposed hurtful Suburbs and Trees were overthrown Letters being sent from the Grand Master to the Pope and other Princes requesting their ayd Messengers also into divers places certifying the Knights of the Order and others of the Turk's preparation who departed from Constantinople March 22 1565. And at Methone Mustapha Bassa 75 years old and General mustered the Army 7000 Horsemen called Spahi 500 out of the lesser Asia out of Mytilene 400 Janizaries 4500 whose Aga or chief Captain leaveth not the City but when the Sultan himself goeth 13000 who lived of the Revenues of their Church who had vowed their lives for their superstition 1200 Horse from Thrace and Peloponesus and 3500 Volunteers out of divers Countries In Piall's Fleet were found about
77 Galleys Ships and Galliots beside one ship cast away near Methone with 6000 Barrels of Powder 1. 3000 great 〈◊〉 and 400 Spahi This strong Fleet arrived at Malta the 18th of May and put into the Haven Marzasirock but not being there safe they removed to the Port Maior Malta layeth betwixt Africa and Sicily and is twenty miles long and 12 broad looking to Africk Southward and ` Sicily Northward seeming to be called Melita from Mel hony whereof it yieldeth plenty it is in some places stony gravelly and bare of Wood great Thistles serving for fewel fresh water is exceeding scarce their Wells filled with rain in Winter in Summer being dry or the Water braccy the Inhabitants differing little in colour from the Aethiopians their Buildings except the City in midst of the Island being long and low covered with Turf or Reed It s rather to be thought from Act. 27. and 28. that Paul was cast upon the other Melita between Corcyra and Illyria the trouble and ship-wrack being in the Adriatique Sea out of which ' 〈◊〉 not to be gathered they were driven That side of Malta towards Sicilie hath many good Harbours and Havens two whereof Maior and Marzamoxet are divided by a narrow piece of ground on the head of whose high ridge stands St. Elmo Castle of great strength On the left hand of the Haven Maior are promontories on the first standeth the Gallows whence it s named on the point of the second on a rough and high Rock stands the most strong Castle of St. Angelo the Town adjoyning in which resideth the Grand Master and the Souldiers in the Town or Burg on the 3d stands the strong Castle or Burg of St. Michael Valetta had to defend those three Castles and Towns 1300 Mercinaries Spaniards French Florentines and Neopolitans 1000 Seamen of the Knights Fleet and 500 in St. Angelo 5000 Countrey people which fled into the strong places 500 Knights besides Priests and Squires for these 3 sorts are called Brethren of the Order In the City Melita it self was 200 Souldiers and as many Citizens with 300 Country Horsemen commanded by valiant Vagno Every place being furnished with whatever was needful for a long fiege and minds armed with invincible courage against all chances 200 Turks going ashoare met with Riverius 8 Knights more whose Horse being killed and one Knight slain they were all taken The Turks returning with their Fleet to Marzasirock Port landed 2000 Souldiers and 5 field-Pieces so intrenching themselves Piall Bassa went to view Michael Castle but for fear of great shot durst not come nigh it yet they sallying out skirmished with the Turks Curfelinus and but one Spaniard with him taking an Ensign from them and slaying a Sanzack with divers others Piall being returned the General in consultation agreed with the Captains to besiege Elmo Castle and going up the Hill to view it they were encountred by the Garrison Souldiers some few being lost on both sides Things growing hotter and hotter Valetta sent Salvagus a Knight in a Galley by night to certifie Garzias Viceroy of Sicily how things stood that he might the sooner come to their rescue The Turks the while cast up a Mount to batter the Castle and beat the Galleys in the Haven Major for their Fleet to enter but it was forthwith beat down again by thundring shot from the Castle much abating their courage 〈◊〉 came to them with 6 Ships and 900 Souldiers They cast up another Mount on higher ground annoying with 3 great Pieces not onely the Haven but Angelo Castle and with a rowling Trench drew nearer and nearer to Elmo Castle which though at first hindered by the Defendants yet at last they brought to perfection and soon so planted their Ordnance that they batter both Elmo and Michael Castles A Spanish Gentleman then a slave to the Turk advertised Valetta of the Enemies purpose who sent forthwith two Spanish Companies into Elmo Castle a great strength thereunto At length came Dragut long looked-for with 13 Galleys and 1600 Souldiers 10 Galliots following him from Bona with two Companies Salvagus having done his Message at Messana was commanded to return to Malta in a Galliot conducted by 2 Galleys who bringing him near the Island returned but he in the 3d Watch of the night brake into the Town thorow the midst of the Enemie's Fleet losing but one man where delivering the Viceroy's charge to Valetta he was sent that night back again into Sicily to request him with all speed to send him supply who soon arrived at Syracusa sending thence in the two Galleys 400 Souldiers divers being Knights and some skilful Canoniers willing them to shun the West part of the Island and passe by the East end thereof farther about but safer Then he went to Messana declaring to Garzias the danger requesting 1000 foot which with those already sent he thought would hold out till he might with his Fleet relieve them but while these things were slowly providing the Turks June the 3d assaulted Elmo Castle hoping with short Ladders to get over the Rampiers nearest to the Castle-Bulwark but the Defendants having made a large strong Flanker the Castle also helping them filled the ditches with their dead bodies who thrust still on with their multitude till they had gained the Flanker where they so speedily fortified themselves that they could not be hurt their Ordnance on the other side of the Haven Marza driving the Defendants from the place beating down the corner of the Rampire and battering the front of the Bulwark But night coming on five thousand of the nine thousand Turks tarried there the Christians being forced to retire into the Castle The Turks filling up the Ditch under the Bulwark with Sacks of Tow and Earth gave a fresh assault 800 Janizaries and Spachi being slain and many wounded most of whom remained in the Ditch where they perished 45 Christians were lost 5 being Knights of the Order That night Valetta sent 200 Knights and as many Souldiers into the Castle who if they had been more with the 400 there before might perhaps have driven the Turks from the Rampiers and Flankers and kept the place longer But the grand Master marvelled exceedingly that no 〈◊〉 came for 〈◊〉 two Galleys through the Master's fear kept not the appointed course he vainly affirming he saw some Turkish Galliots before the Port Milleria shaping his course to the Island Gaulos which much grieved the Viceroy and others especially Salvagus for he saw what would come to passe Yet in the mean time six hundred Souldiers were taken up at Rome by Pope Pius the 4th His Command under Columna whom his Legate Me dices accompanied and for example to other Princes gave 100 l. of Gold to the Legate of the Order with Gunpowder and other Warlike necessaries With these went many Volunteers and that with a most ardent desire who found John Auria and others at Naples with 36 Ships wherein these Footmen being imbarqued were transported
men and so the Castle was won but it was a wonder that so many should be 〈◊〉 of so few the Defendants were every man slain in fight The Turks finding certain Knights yet breathing and but half dead cut out their hearts then their heads from their bodies 〈◊〉 them up by the heels in their red Cloaks with white Crosses black in time of peace in 〈◊〉 of other Castles Mustapha commanding them afterwards to be bound together and cast into the Sea who being cast up in the Haven Major were honourably buried by sorrowful Valetta who moved with such 〈◊〉 put to the Sword all Turks before taken casting their Heads over the Walls and every one that should be taken to be presently slain From the first of the siege to the taking of the Castle were slain 1300 Christians 130 being Knights of the Order Valetta though exceedingly grieved yet seemed otherwise because of daunting his Souldiers telling them nothing was happened unprovided for or unforeseen that it was the will of God and chance of Warre sometimes one sometimes another to be overcome c. so encouraging them then withdrawing aside he among many things cast in his troubled minde determined to write to Mesquita Governour of Melita to certifie him the Knights at Messania and the Viceroy of the losse of St. Elmo saying in his Letter He for all that thought it not lawful to doubt of Gods mercy and power though yet he might complain that they were forsaken of whom it least beseemed saying all their welfare consisted in celerity of relief from the Viceroy bidding Mesquita to send him three Captains with their Companies and praying God to send them ayd from some place Mesquita sent Codonellus a Knight in a Galliot into Sicily requesting him with all possible speed to passe over with those Letters Mustapha the while sent a Messenger to Valetta promising a Spanish captive liberty for going with him to try if he would come to any agreement for yielding up the Town whereinto the Christian being entred the Turk waiting at the Gate declared his Message to Valetta who was so angry at the name of composition that had he not been a Christian he would presently have hanged him giving him his choyce either to tarry still in the Town or to go tell his Companion if he packed not quickly away he would send him farther off with a great shot The Turk returning with this answer Mustapha enraged protested never to forbear any kind of cruelty against the Christians One Philip of the Grecian Family of Lascaris then with Mastapha who had been courteously used by the Christians in Patras by whom he was taken prisoner of a boy had oft attempted to flee to St. Michaels Castle at length July 1. he swum to the Castle being many times shot at by the Turk's Arrowes and small shot He revealed to Valetta many of the enemies secrets 〈◊〉 him how to srustrate the enemies purpose for assailing Michaels point with other things no small help to the Defendants fighting himself valiantly during the Siege Codonellus coming safely to Messana found the Christian Fleet not ready wherefore the Knights after debate resolved by all meanes possible to help their Brethren choosing two Generalls of their own fellows the Commanders of Messana and Baroli who declared to Garzias what the Knights of their Order had done for the King of Spain and the Christian Commonweale and what charge they had been at the year before in the Pinionian expedition beseeching him also to consider of what concernment the losse of Malta was therefore requesting of him four thousand Footmen with whom all the Knights there and many Volunteers would make all speed to relieve the besieged But whilest the Viceroy considereth of an answer a Messenger came from Spain whereupon he answered he could not grant their request for so he should disfurnish his Fleet but they might transport the Knights with part of the Bishop's Souldiers with their own two Galleys to whom he would joyn another Those four Galleys aforementioned with the eighty Knights and six hundred Souldiers through a great tempest hindering the Frigot's return which they sent to see whether Elmo Castle were still holden and afterwards by mistrusting a fire which they saw within two Leagues where they thought to land which yet was made as a sign that they might without fear come forward arrived not at the black Rocks on the South side of the Island till June the 29 about midnight getting unseen to the 〈◊〉 Malta there expecting what Valetta should command in the mean time a great fogge seldom there chancing arising a Boy looked out of a Window in the Castle crying out as afraid that he saw a Turk going from the City to Michaels Castle wherefore some of the Knights running out found a Greek of the City who upon examination for none 〈◊〉 to go forth without a Passe confessed he intended to give the Turks notice of those Souldiers coming that they might be intercepted as they came to the grand Master for which he was cut in four Pieces Three dayes after in the first Watch they came safely to Valetta except two or three Boyes who charged with Armour and Baggage could not keep way with the rest The besieged incredibly rejoyced at their coming chiefly Valetta who with teares trickling down and eyes caft up to Heaven said I thank thee O Heavenly Father which hearest my prayers and forsakest not this thy little Flock beset round with most ravening Wolves these are the works of thine everlasting goodness mercy and providence Valetta easily granting their desire to be put into St. Michaels Town yet not removing the old Garrison they next day sallyed out and having slain 200 Turks and wounded as many returned without a man lost Mustapha knowing it was they which came lately in fell in rage with his Captains as that they entred by their negligence But the suspition was the more increased on them which kept the uttermost part of the Island because 3 Galliots of Algiers had withdrawn so that he neither trusted them nor the Renegate Christians who fled daily from him wherefore he proclaimed those who lay out of the Galleys by night should be burnt or impaled on stakes and changing his Warders appointed Sales with his Galliots to keep the Island chaining together divers Galleys in the entrance of the Haven Marza-Moxet causing the rest of the Fleet to ride nearer together than before Three places were also assigned for the wounded and the then exceeding many sick in the Turk's Camp Mustapha then appointed Ochiall Bassa Governour of Tripolis who going thither and setting things in order returned again having carried two Ships of Corn there to make bread whose want they began to feel He sent also a Colonel to Solyman to certifie him of the winning of Elmo Castle with a description of the Isle as they found it and to declare that the Malteses were stronger and 〈◊〉 provided than was supposed wherefore if he
should continue the siege he should send a new supply of Men Victual c. and while he expected an answer he would do what possibly he might who began his battery in fourteen places with seventy great Pieces three being most huge Basilisks so incessantly battering the Towns and Castles of Michael and Angelo that scarce any could be safe therein which most troubled the Women and Children But the Turks were far more safe in their Trenches yet they durst not stray farre from the Camp but with a multitude and then also were cut off by the Horsemen of Malta who were ever ready at their heels At Rome some were sory for the dishonour at the losse of Elmo Castle others fearing lest the calamities of the Malteses should redound unto themselves There were also a sort of men unacquainted with Martiall affaires who shamed not to lay the blame upon Valetta whom his own valour the testimony of so many famous men present and this History shall now and hereafter acquit of so false a slander But when the three Galleys containing besides Knights six hundred Spaniards and three hundred of the 〈◊〉 Souldiers which through diligence departed from Messana July the 7th with five hundred bushels of Wheat beside Gunpowder Saltpeter and Lead for shot approached the Island their Scout perceived by the sign that they should retire the Turks presently obscuring the Air with smoak c. that those Signes should not be discerned but they were already descryed so they returned to Sicilie about which time those in the City Melita pursued the Turks when they were fetching in booty of Cattel slaying divers recovering the prey and chasing them even to their Camp but the other Turks seeing them flee so hastily toward them raised an Alarum ran to the 〈◊〉 Tent and for that time ceased their battery Valetta conjecturing the Turks would soon assault the Town and Castle of Michael was about himself to have gone thither by a Bridge made of Boats from one point to the other but hearing the certainty thereof returned into his Castle Some think it had been full of danger for him so to have done and therefore to have been discommended Others think the Generalls presence chiefly in great dangers is prayse-worthy and most necessary after the examples of Alexander the great Julius Caesar Themistocles Marius and others who said to their Souldiers I my self will be your Conductor in field in the Battel partaker of the same danger ye shall be in all things as my self The King of Algiers came to the Turks with seven Galleys ten Galliots and 2200 Souldiers who requested Mustapha for the first place in besieging Michaels Castle which he granted him joyning to his forces two thousand of his best Souldiers who commanded 90 small Vessels to be carried by Land out of Marza-Moxet to Aqua Martia on that side to besiege the Castle by water Wherefore Valetta demanded of two skilful Shipmasters what they thought best to be done to keep the Turks from landing who thought their purpose might be defeated if a Chain of Masts and Sail-yards joyned together with Iron Rings were drawn from the corner of St. Angela to the place where the Enemy thought to Land which was done the night following the Turks perceiving this barre when 't was day knew not how to Land their men but a desperate Christian fugitive promised the King to break the Chain and swimming to it two or three more following to help him they got up upon it hewing apace with their Hatchets Wherefore five or six Malteses swam thither with their drawn Swords slaying two and causing the rest to flee after which none attempted the same yet the barbarous King diligently prepared for the Siege which July the 15th began by Sea and Land but the Defendants in the three houres assault slew with their Ordnance two thousand Turks and sunk twelve Gallies the rest coming to the Chain which stopt them turned their prows on the corner of the Castle but were glad at last to retire The Land-assault endured also five houres many Turks being slain and two hundred Defendants four being Knights Medina was also wounded whereof he died But Valetta considering what danger was like to be if he should fight many such fights July the 17th sent a Messenger into Sicilie who swam from the Castle to Aqua Martia thence escaping unknown thorow the Enemies to Melita and so came to Messana 〈◊〉 Letters requested the Viceroy to send Valetta his own two Gallies with those Knights there and what Souldiers might be transported therein at which time the Fleet from Spain came to Messana with many Knights from divers Nations The Viceroy sent Letters before to Valetta in Caracters by two Frigots requiring some sign from him whereby the Galleys at their coming might know whether to enter or retire one of which Frigots laden with Medicines was intercepted the other came to Melita yet since all passages between that and St. Michael were shut up and the Haven straightly kept there could be no further direction from Valetta for their safe sending yet the Knights of Messana thought good to adventure 40 Knights with other Souldiers Salazar a Spanish Captain being sent with them to be landed in the Isle Gaulos who should thence in a boat passe over to Malta as a Spy to view the City and enemies Camp The Turks the while in revenge of the former losse so battered the Castle that they beat down by day what was repaired by night laying a Bridge over the Ditch July 20. that they might come to fight hand to hand which seen Parisot and Agleria Knights with some Mercenaries sallyed out to burn the Bridge but they were with the Knights almost all slain and the exploit unperformed The Turks battered without ceasing till July 28 which afternoon they assaulted it in divers places with 3 fresh supplies but the Defendants so repulsed them with weapons shot fire and force that with no small losse they enforced them to retire Wherefore now they made small reckoning of the enemy who now determined to prove what might be done by undermining which they almost perfected undiscovered for they caused 2 Galleys to come as near as they could and to batter that place hoping thereby that the Defendants should the lesse regard what they were working in secret yet the besieged perceiving their purpose with a Countermine defeated their Mine One Antient especially casting pots of Wild-fire before him and following after with a fire-work in his hand forcing them out for which he was rewarded with a Chain of Gold weighing 5 l. And next day Aug. 1. the Bridge was by a salley made burnt down with fire and Gunpowder cast thereon seasonably done for next day the Turks again assailing that part where Rufus had the charge were valiantly repulsed 300 being slain in that 3 hours assault and Rufus himself with Baresus Knights and some Mercenaties At this time the Christians could not look into the Ditch or
Zanius was Admiral Noble Singliticus was sent with 1000 Footmen into Cyprus who led also all the Horsemen in the Island Martiningus promising to follow with 2000 more Their strong Cities were new fortified and provided with all necessaries for defence of their State earnestly soiiciting the Christian Princes to give them ayd against the common enemy but Maximilian excused himself by the 8 years League made with the Turk as also Charls the French King and Sigismund of Poland upon the same account yet seeming very sory for the breach betwixt them yet Charls offered to be a Mediator if they pleased betwixt them and Selymus Sebastian also of Portugal made an excuse from the great Plague that had lately raged in his Kingdom also that he was to maintain Sea-Warres against the Turks in the East 〈◊〉 Onely Pope Pius the 5th and Philip of Spain with the Duke of Savoy Duke of Urbin and Duke of Florence and Knights of Malta promised them and performed their ayd Selimus was with the Venetian's short answer and Cubates's contemptuous usage farther enraged they also having in their Letters omitted his glorious Titles wherefore he imprisoned their Embassador and all the Christian Merchants of the West throughout his Empire staying their ships under Arrest setting himself wholly to prepare things needful for the intended Warre Cyprus layeth in the farthest of the Cilician Sea between Syria East Pamphylia West Aegypt South and Cilicia now Caramannia North. It is in length after Strabo 175 miles in breadth 65 in circuit 427. It abounds with what ever is needful for the sustentation of man sending forth great abundance and craving no help again The people generally lived so at ease and pleasure that the Island was dedicated to Venus who was there chiefly worshipped and thereof called Cypria Marcellinus saith that Cyprus is of it self able to build a tall Ship from the Keel to the Top-sail and put it to Sea furnished of all things needful In the heart whereof stands Nicosia sometime its mother-Mother-City and in the East end thereof Famagusta the chief and onely Port of all that most pleasant Island It came first into the hands of the Venetians as hath bin before declared by Catherine Cornelia the Wife of James the King thereof and adopted Daughter of the Senate who her Husband being dead by the perswasion of her Brother George Cornelius all the Island being ready to revolt after the death of her young Sonne a Posthume coming to Venice and with the greatest honour received in the Senate-House before the Tribunal of Duke Barbaricus laid down her Crown and Scepter and as a loving Daughter resigned up her Kingdom to the great honour and profit of her Countrey in one thousand four hundred seventy three then paying to the Sultans of Aegypt such yearly Tribute as James did and afterwards the same to the Turk by Law of Conquest But now this Selimus the 2d made no account of the accustomed Tribute but of the fruitful Island itself who in the beginning of February 1570 sent a great power into Epirus and the Frontiers of Dalmatia to forrage especially about Jadera to withdraw the Venetians from the defence of Cyprus so far off and in April following he sent Piall who was a Hungarian born of mean Parents with 80 Galleys and 300 Galliots to keep the Venetians from sending ayd to Cyprus who coming to Euboea so lay certain dayes as if he would give them battel but understanding that they grievously visited with the Plague and slowly relieved by friends were not like in haste to come out he sailed to have taken the Island Troos from them stronger by the Defendants industry than by nature who though far from Christian Countries could neither for fear or danger be removed from Christian Religion or submit to the Turks Government as most of the Cyclades had done Piall by fair meanes and fowl perswaded the Inhabitants to yield their Town but getting nothing from them but fowl words again he valiantly assaulted it two dayes but seeing how little he prevailed and the Defendants resolution he abandoned the Island sailing towards Cyprus for Mustapha a hater of the Christians was made General who appointed Piall to meet him at the Rhodes where he that came first should tarry for the other to sail together to Cyprus Mustapha having sent a great part of his Army by Land into Pamphylia departed in a royal and wondrous great Galley together with Haly Bassa General of the forces at Sea and the rest of the Fleet from Constantinople May 26 meeting with Piall at the Rhodes and to colour so manifest a wrong according to the Turkish manner a little before his arrival at Cyprus sent Letters to the Venetians that Cyprus together with Aegypt which was conquered by the Turks was become of right a part of the Othoman Empire which they came to challenge leading after them 200000 valiant Souldiers c. And if they should prefer their vain hopes before the wholsom Counsel of leaving the Island without resistance they were to expect all the calamities of War c. he giving them a moneths space to bethink themselves The whole Fleet consisted of 200 Galleys divers Galliots and small Men of Warre with divers Vessels for transporting of Horses whose coming the Islanders from their Watch-Towers first discovered at the West end whence on the right hand passing the promontory of Del legate they landed divers of their men who burning and spoyling some Villages with spoil and prisoners returned to the Fleet which coming to Salinae a place so called from abundance of Salt there made they came to an Anchor in an open Road landing their Army on a plain shoare unresisted which exceedingly encouraged the Turks thinking they should not have so done without a bloudy Fight but the Christians all whose hope was to have 〈◊〉 them from landing either terrified with the greatness of the Fleet or prevented by their celerity to their great hurt omitted so fair an opportunity The Bassa entrenching his Army sent the Fleet to transport his other forces out of Pamphylia into the Island and Scouts to take some prisoners of whom they might learn many things of concernment but the greatest question among themselves was whether they should first set 〈◊〉 Famagusta or Nicosia Famagusta standing low and wholly subject to the then scorching heat the Bassa for fear of Diseases thought it better to begin with Nicosia So put ing all things in order and well viewing the Countrey he set forward it was about 30 miles distant being the chief and richest City of the 〈◊〉 The spreading Army the neerer it came the greater was the 〈◊〉 of the people and the number of prisoners but the Enemies approaching a general fear possessed all men there being in the City no renowned Captain nor any strong Army without to oppose the enemy Dandulus was Governour of the City too weak for so great a burthen being brought up in civil Affaires who had taken up 4000
After few dayes the Conditions were agreed on The Inhabitants safely to enjoy lives liberty and goods with free exercise of the Christian Religion the Governour Captains and Souldiers to depart safely with bag and baggage with 5 great Ordnance and any 3 Horses they should choose the Turks to conduct them to Creet with Victuall and shipping which things conceived in writing and by Oath confirmed the Governour requested he might come to see the Bassa and deliver him the keyes of the City Leave granted himself with Baleonius Andrew Bragadine Theupolus Earl of Paphos Quirinus Martinengus with many other Captains came into the Camp delivering their weapons before they entred the Bassaes Pavilion who at first entertained them courteously extolling their valour and courage saying He was glad to know them by face whose valiant minds before he knew by their most valiant deeds but after a long discourse the false Bassa complained that some of his men taken at the siege had been against all reason and order slain which they utterly denying he started up as in a rage urging the fact commanding them to be cast into bonds brought them forth and in sight of the Army caused them to be slain Bragadine and Theupolus were oft commanded to lay down their Heads yet was their execution deferred for a more exquisite punishment and torture for next day Bragadine having his eares cut off was brought forth to be wondred at and dispoiled of Jewels and Attire he was forced to carry baskets of earth to repair the Rampiers as he passed by the proud Bassa insulting to have him kisse the ground at his feet And so buffeted with their fists and spurned with their feet he was asked Whether he hoped Christ would come to help or not whose comly countenance and long beard even in that extream misery added to him a certain grace The Christians could neithis well stay tears nor let them fall fearing the Turks displeasure but the cruel and foresworn Bassa caused that noble and worthy Bragadine to be set in a Chair and his skin to be flain off quick in which horrible torture he was not heard to let fall any unbeseeming word but calling on Gods mercy and detesting the Turks perfidious treachery he breathed out his life the Tyrant setting his Head on a spear on high to be beheld and hanging up his skin stuffed with chaffe at the yards arm so to be carried about 2 dayes after Theupolus first most shamefully entreated was hanged in the market-place of the mean sort of Citizens some he slew chaining some in the Galleys and carrying away the rest into bondage 300 Citizens and Souldiers who came forth with the Governour to see the Camp being there slain one Nestor Martinengus being hidden by an Eunuch of the Bassaes by help of a Greek Fisherman got to Leptis and so to Venice from Creet where he reported to the Duke the whole process of the War and that in 70 dayes there was above 140000 great shot discharged against the City Such chief ones as escaped lived afterwards a banished miserable and vagrant life though some were credibly reported to be well maintained by the Venetian State The Countrey people and Artificers were generally spared This was the fatal ruine of Cyprus sometime a Kingdom and now a Province of the Turkish Empire 〈◊〉 Mustapha lay against Famagusta Partau and Haly Bassaes about mid May arrived in Eubaea with 230 Galleys whither divers notable Pirates with galleys resorted to them who departing toward the Rhodes 30 Galleys more adventurers met them then leaving some to lay before Famagusta they June 13. in the Bay of Suda in Creet landed 12000 men This Island now called Candia had once 100 Cities therein as witnesseth amongst others Seneca now only 3 Candia Canea and Retimo It 's 520 miles in circuit fertile Hilly Wherefore the people much delighted in hunting It hath no Navigable River nor venemous beast and is now famous from it's abundance of good Malmesey and great plenty of Cyprus-trees for shipping The Turks ranging up and down burned and spoiled all as they went till Justinianus lately come thither with 100 men and now joyning with the people slew many they being dispersed for prey forcing the rest to retire to their Galleys Next day landing again in great number they burnt divers Towns ransacking Setia and Retimo and carrying away many prisoners but loaded with booty dispersed and fearing nothing Valiant Michael slew 2000 of them ritiring with loss of booty and prisoners to their Galleys Then sailing to Cythera Zante and Cephalenia besides other harms they carried away captive 6000 Christians Thence coming to Suppolo before taken from the Turks they now recovered it Then coming to Dulsigno which the Turks besieged by Land because it 's Governour and of Antivari another Venetian-Town agreed with 300 Epirots to stir up a Rebellion and revolt to the Venetians who promised them 6000 Souldiers to make head They raising most of Epirus in Arms one Company of the Italians was at first sent them but vainly expecting the promised ayd being hardly beset they yielded to the mercy of Achmetes Bassa Lieutenant of Greece coming thither with 80000 Turks They of Dulsigno hardly beset by sea and Land delivered the Town to Partau upon safe departure The Governour and Garrison being in 4 ships conveyed to Ragusium promise being kept with the Citizens after the Turkish manner They took also Buda and Antivari which though strong and a good Garrison in it yet Donatus the Governour no Souldier through fear yielded it to the enemy for which cowardise the Senate confiscated his goods put him out of the Senate and exiled him After this the Turks going into the Bay of Catharo hardly besieged the strong Town so called by sea and Land planting 9 great pieces upon 2 great Bulwarks but the Defendants by a resolute salley put them from their Ordnance forcing them to their Galleys Uluzalis Carracossa got leave the while for 10 days with 60 Galleys to spoil the Venetian's Islands there abou ts who coming to assanlt Curzola in the Isle so called Contarenus the Governor fled away by night into Rocks and safer places the Townsmen following not above 20 men 8 women being left who came armed to the walls but while the women with stones fire and weapon swere beating the Turks off with more courage than was in their sex to be expected a great tempest suddenly arising from the North so tossed the Galleys that théy were glad to give over the assault and sailing along they spoiled Lysna Bracia and Lisa small Islands upon Dalmatia's coast carrying away 1600 captives They roaming up down took a ship bound from Messana to Corcyra and in 〈◊〉 it found Letters to the Governor certifying him of the late League concluded among the Christian Princes which they sent in post to Selimus Who wrote to his Admiral 's to infest any Dominions of the Confederates The Turks Fleet brought great
open to them such matter as in respect of other men might cause their coming to prove profitable to all Persia which request they solemnly promised to perform being very desirous to know what those strange novelties should be whereupon Abas sent unto them two of his chief Counsellors with full instructions who after many speeches swore by the Creator of all things by the head of Hali and by the Religion of Mahomet that such perverse thoughts never entred into Abas Miriz alledging many manifest proofs that when the King was advanced to the Kingdom and in his battels against the Turks his Sonne had alwayes caused devout prayers to be made for his prosperity and never desiring to hear but of his happy success they brought with them abundance of precepts and loyall Letters from Abas to the Governours his Subjects for Government of the State never naming himself King of Persia but onely your King and Governour of Heri they prayed the King also if there should be found any shadow of such a suspition in his Sonne upon a diligent process framed against them to take from him his Estate and liberty offering themselves as his Hostages but if Abas should be found free from these accusations then 〈◊〉 the Earth they besought him to take information upon what mind his Counsellor had advised him to undertake so dangerous a voyage c. And as for Abas his forbidding the Governours to go to Warres against the Turks that was onely in respect of an invasion justly feared in those quarters by the Tartarian Gesselbas who by divers inroads had already done great harms thereabouts all which was by writing signified unto the Visier himself which he maliciously concealed to try if he could bring to passe that Abas and the King might be taken away in those troubles whom Emer Hamsey succeeding himself might remain the superintendant of his Sonne in Law c. which they imputed not to the Prince altogether ignorant of such a purpose but onely to the ambition of the wicked Traitor Miriz Salmas the King by nature credulous made great construction of these grave Speeches and could not chuse but harken unto their so earnest and upright requests wherefore calling unto him all the chief Officers of all the Cities of Heri he demanded of them how they esteemed of Amas and in what degree he desired to be esteemed of them who all answered they held him and he desired to be taken for their Lord and Lievtenant to the King of Casben bringing forth divers papers wherein he entituled himself only Your King of Heri and demanding of them whether those Tartars had attempted any such Warres they largely informed him they had to the great dammage of all those Territories though he might justly now have put Salmas to death as the Authour of so great troubles and bloodshed yet for better information sake he first of all in great secresie examined the Prince why he had advised this Journey against his guilty Bro Abas who answered onely from the credit he always gave to his Father in Law Miriz Salmas as to a chief Counsellor c. touching whom the King diligently inquiring both of Courtiers and Army-men found him guilty of all that the Embassadors of Heri had accused him for which so foul a Treason the false VISIER by the Kings command had his Head struck off so the 2 Brethren being reconciled and the Son to the Father after Abas had again promised Obedience which he most dutifully performed the King returned towards Casbin where by reason of the Turks unexpected motion he had bin long looked for Amurath through the rough speeches of Sinan was more and more setled in his purpose for continuance of the Persian War Wherefore he resolved at last to make choice of Ferat Bassa for his general fierce in courage tough in opinion hardy in Counsel but especially devoted to the King Who calling him apart encouraged him to take the charge upon him with a firm resolution to perform all things answerable thereunto with the Opinion he had of his valour Ferat promised to do his utmost to execute whatever should be offered him either by occasion or his real command Amurath at first onely intended to employ him in assuring the passage to Teflis and so into all Georgia and to have destroyed Mustaffa his Country who had put his whole Army into confusion but hearing of the troubles between the Persian King his Son he commanded Ferat to erect a Fort at Reivan belonging to Tochmac and to assure the passage from Chars thither so should they be revenged of many harms received by him and lay open the way to Tauris he willed Ferat to dissemble his ill Opinion of Mustaffa and if possible to make use of him for convoying succours to Teflis whereby all Georgia would be won without any more Fortresses and next year they might attempt the enterprize for Tauris In the beginning of the year 1583. all Cities that used to appear at these Wars were commanded upon Summons to be ready to execute their new General 's Injunctions all which sent their Captains and Souldiers accordingly So Ferat coming to Erzirum viewed all his Army and provision thence arriving at Chars conducted by Maxut-chan he set forwards Reivan but 3 dayes before he came thither he erected a Fortress of some ruines of an old Castle leaving in it 400 Souldiers with a Zanzack and some Ordnance Between Reivan and Tauris 8 or 9 dayes journey distant are Stannasivan Chiulfal Maraut and Sosian having goodly Gardens and Greens but in the way are many craggy Mountains and sundry hard passages Here Ferat consulted with his chief Captains where to build the Fort who advised him to fortifie the Houses and Gardens of Tochomac which he did and enclosed the Gardens with strong Walls and deep Ditches whereinto he conveyed water from a certain River This Fortress was finished in 15 dayes being 750 yards about Tochomac exceedingly grieved so suddenly to lose his Country and dwelling sought at least in some part to be revenged of so great an injury Wherefore he wrote to King Emer-chan and Simon gathering Souldiers out of the Villages but he could receive no help the King being so far against his son the Georgian being bufied by hindering the relief of Teflis and Emer-chan either would not or could not stir from Tauris having as some supposed secret intelligence with Ferat not to disturb him in this work So Tochomac not able of himself to do much yet by privy Ambushes killed sometimes a 100 sometimes 150 Turks and sometimes more and dispatched Horsmen in haste to the King at Chorazan amplifying by Letters the cowardize of Emer-chan with some causes of suspition that he had some Intelligence with Ferat who having built this new Fort and furnished it with all necessaries appointed Sinan Bassa son of a Runagate Genuan with 8000 Souldiers to keep the same and so departing he arrived in 10 dayes at Chars where
Fathers Camp who seeing he could not avoid Battel without a shamefull and dangerous flight joyned with them a most bloudy Conflict for 2 houres till the darkness of the night enforced both sides to retire the Turks losing as was commonly reported 6000 men so that hitherto they lost above 10000 Souldiers and yet had scarce discovered or seen the City they so greedily longed after Next morning the Turks encamped within 2 miles of Tauris but whilst they were setting up their Tents Aliculi issuing out with all his Garrison and Citizens fit to bear Arms with many cunning turnings and windings so charged the Vanguard now renewed that he 〈◊〉 them to retire even to the main Battel they being disordered and almost 3000 〈◊〉 in a very small time Aliculi spying the Ordnance withdrew himself without 〈◊〉 into the City but in the shutting in of the evening he sallied out again and swif ly running along that side of the Army towards Tauris he slew the Bassa of Maras and did great hurt which done he fled to the Kings Camp not being able to hold the City yet the Taurisions that remained therein gathered together to the Gates to make a bloody entrance for the Turks And upon the break of day a great multitude of the servile and rascà ll Turks without order from their Captains with Corstets Spears and Swords went to that Wealthy City thinking to have sacked it but contrary to their expectation they were forced at the Gates to joyn a hard and mortall Battel so that the Vallies entrance and ground thereabouts was bathed with bloud and as it were covered with Weapons and dead 〈◊〉 yet at last the Persians was constrained to yield entrance a multitude out of the Camp flowing in upon them who retiring into the City astonied and amazed fortified themselves in their Houses under ground and in the corners and windings of the streets whence they did the Turks great harm who at last were too mighty for them and wrought many grievous mischiefs in that wofull City and so a great number of this rascall people returned to the Camp with manifest tokens of the oppressed City wherein the women and impotent souls stood embracing and straining their doors and posts and kissing their native soyl with prayers mournings and complaints bewailing their present misery and yet fearing worse to come Osman acquainted with these calamities proclaimed that 〈◊〉 should be so hardy as to molest the Taurisians going about the City himself and thorowly viewing its scituation and wherein he might safely encamp and more securely erect a Castle or Fort. The buildings in Tauris which is seared at the foot of the hill Orontes after the manner of the East are of burnt-clay rather low then high It carrieth the name for all things and was the Persian Kings place of residence till Tamas removed his seat farther into his Kingdom to 〈◊〉 yet though it hath bin sundry times 〈◊〉 by the inroads fury of the Turk it was stil in great estimation renown Osman 〈◊〉 his Tents to be pitched on the south-side thereof where was a spacious Garden replenished with sundry 〈◊〉 of Trees and sweet smelling plants many Brooks derived from a pretty River which divided the Garden from the City for the delicacy thereof it was called the 8 Paradise was in times 〈◊〉 the standing House of their Kings but after their remove to Casbin became the Habitation of the Governour of Tauris Here Osman would build his Castle giving the Modell himself and commanding all those pleasant Greens to be environed with walls and Trenches to convey the water from the said River which whole work was finished in 36 dayes store of Artillery mounted on the Walls and divers Baths Lodgings and such other Houses built within the first day of which building Osman sickned of a Feaver with a bloudy Flux Five dayes after the Castle was 〈◊〉 newes was brought to the Camp that 8 Janizaries and divers Spaoglans were seen strangled in a Bath within the City whereupon the Janizaries and others came to the Generall telling him That although according to his pleasure every man had used modesty towards the Taurisians yet themselves had strangled in a Bath 8 Janizaries and certain Spaoglans which injury and insolency in their judgment was not to be suffered Osman was so moved that commanding the City to be sacked he left it wholly to the 〈◊〉 of his Souldiers Whereupon every place was filled with 〈◊〉 ravishment rapine murder Men-Children most horribly defiled younglings snatched out of their Parents arms Houses burnt and destroyed Riches and Money carryed away and all things ruinated Thrice were these mischiefs committed one exceeding another This wo sore troubled the Persian King but the Prince much more who resolved to attempt any thing to requite so great a wrong and commanded 500 Horsmen to present themselves even to the very sight of their Enemies Tents as it were to dare them Battel the Turks imagining that the Persians were in great number come to affail the Army the sick Generall ordered Cicala Bassa and the Bassa of Careamit with near 40000 of those of Greece their own Forces and servile people to go to encounter the Enemy the 5000 Persians with a cunning kind of skirmishing drew the Turks forward above 8 miles where the Persian Prince with about 20000 of his Army couragiously 〈◊〉 upon them with the cruellest Battel that ever was written of who having done great harm it was thought as content they would have 〈◊〉 retired which the Turks to prevent hardly pressed upon them hoping to put them to flight give them a deadly overthrow but the Persians having endured their charge began a most deadly Battel afresh wherein the Bassa of Careamit being wholly discomfited fled back to the Camp with most manifest Tokens of the unhappy issue yet Sicala valiantly and cunningly still 〈◊〉 their fury labouring by all meanes to encourage his men and restore the Battel but at last was forced also to flee comming to the Camp without any Ensign having left behind him 8000 of his Souldiers dead upon the ground The Prince herewith encouraged speedily sent to Osman whom he thought had been in health that if he would sight he was 〈◊〉 how he pleased to accept of Battel and make him know both that Amurath had most unjustly raised this War and also that it had bin good for himself not to have taken the same in hand Osman 〈◊〉 this offer sent out 60000 men the Bassa of Careamit and Sicala leading the main Battel the Bassa of Natolia the left-Wing and the Bassa of Caramania the right-Wing The Prince lay about 10 miles off from Osman's Camp who had of Persians Hircanians Parthians and Meropatians in all 40000 himself being in the midst of them The Turks feared lest the Persians fetching a great compass should set upon their Tents and Riches wherefore retiring what they might as if they had given place they had well-nigh brought them
youth a few Crowns commanding him to carry them to the Bassa and bring him his answer promising to reward him bountifully The Bassa returned answer he would be with him at the time appointed willing him the while to be mindful of his wonted valour telling him all circumstances how he would relieve him whereupon the Count provided for welcoming of the Bassa Also within a day after a Turkish Cannonier fearing the City would be lost 〈◊〉 forth into the Camp who besides declaring the Cities state and wants of the besieged did good service during the siege The Turks had often sallied out to their great losse yet they adventured out again on the 29 day of this moneth 80 being left behind them slaying but five Christians The Turks in great wants at length news was brought into the Camp that the Bassa was coming with 20000 men who came Aug. 2d encamping within 4 miles of the Christians some Turkish Horse seeking after booty out of the Pastures even under their noses carried away some few Horses some German and Hungarian Troops issuing out had a hot skirmish with them but the Turk retiring as if overcharged had at length drawn them where divers Troops of Turks lay in ambush who hardly charged them The Hungarians acquainted with such dangerous skirmishes fled the Germans a while valiantly encountring them but oppressed with multitude at last fled about 100 being in all lost and much wounded The Turks now encouraged came all on next day resolved by force to open a way into the City The Count had strongly belayed all wayes thereinto yet the Enemy coming on between St. Thomas and St. Georges Hills nigh the Suburbs called the Rascian City put themselves in order of Battel as did the Christians letting them come even to 〈◊〉 Trenches Palfi the while with his Hungarian Horsemen fetching a compasse on one side of the Hill and Lord Swartzenburgh on the other the Turks could not without much danger retire The Signall given the Turks having discharged seventeen Field-pieces without any great harm came on with a most hideous cry and at first onset darkened the Skie with with their Arrowes but the German and Walloon Horse lent their shot as thick as hail amongst them again and the men at Arms taught the Turks to their cost how unfit their half-naked light Horsemen were in a set battel to meet with them in a trice but with great slaughter the battel was brought to the Sword The noises of Warlike Instruments neighing of Horses crying of the wounded and groans of the dying making deaf the eates of the hearers c. The Battel had scarce endured half an houre but many thousands of Turks lay dead on the ground the rest fleeing and leaving behind them their Ordnance and whatever they brought for relief of the besieged whom so fleeing Palfi and Swartzenburgh so received them that of those who came that way few escaped The Bassa who stood on the Hill fled also himself the Bassa of Natolia with about 100 Turks more got into Strigonium some say 14000 Turks were 〈◊〉 in this Battel and some fewer Many were also taken some being of great name and place also 27 Ensigns with a multitude of Beasts laden with money shot powder and other provision for relief of the besieged In heat of the Battel the besieged sallying out entred a Fort on the River side but were presently forced with losse to retire After this the Count sent some Companies with 500 Wagons to the Enemie's Camp 〈◊〉 farre off in the Mountains who found it forsaken but well stored with all kinde of provision which they brought away with 600 rich Tents The Bassaes Tent taken by a Horse Colonel was given by him to the Count with the 〈◊〉 and Money there found all which he divided among the Souldiers according to their 〈◊〉 they found also some Heads of Christians with the dead body of Lord Blandestine slain the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which were honourably buried in the Christian Camp The rest of the Turks hiding in the Mountains and Woods by night shifted for themselves The Bassa came to Buda but with 20 Horse every man there 〈◊〉 his lost friends The Hungarian Heidons best 〈◊〉 with the Countrey for certain dayes brought into the Camp such prisoners as they took or the Heads of those Turks they slew The Count certified the arch-Duke at Vienna speedily of this notable Victory who rewarded the Messenger with a Chain worth 500 Duckats causing Thanksgiving to be sung first at Augustine Fryars then in all Temples of the City The Count also sent to the Emperour by his Nephew two chief prisoners with 4 Horsemens Guidons cunningly made of Horse hairs such as use to be carried before the greatest Turkish Commanders and 14 other Ensigns with 14 most goodly Turkish Horses for a Present Next day after this Battel the Count sent Lord Palfi with an Interpreter to the City to demand it who declared the danger they were in their expected help to be quite overthrown new relief could not but in long time be sent them wherefore they were best bethink themselves betime lest perhaps when they would yield the City it would not be accepted promising to entreat with the General that they might safely depart and be conveyed to places convenient The Turks answered they had layen 5 weeks at the siege and must lay 5 weeks longer and whereas some few friends had lately failed to relieve them yet 100000 more were to come who if they could not perform what they came for yet would they not leave the City till ready to be drawn out by the heels and then also take 3 dayes to resolve The Christians had sore beaten both the Towns maintaining their battery with greater fury than ever before and the besieged had nothing now to live on but a little Wheat and Barley with some 〈◊〉 to whom Lord Palfi by the Count's Command Aug. 9th sent two Gentlemen to the 〈◊〉 to do a Message from him to the Governour who being very aged and courteous came with the Aga to the Walls to hear what they had to say one of whom briefly said that his Lord Palfi knowing him to be both valiant and wise and who had ever courteously used those fallen into his hands had compassion of his obstinacy wherefore he advised and exhorted him if he would save him and his from most eminent and undoubted death and utter confusion without delay to deliver up the City To whom Alis answered He should tell Lord Palfi he could not pleasure him with the least stone in that City that he had one foot already in grave and would with honour carry his gray hairs thereinto yet had he an undoubted hope that his most dread Soveraign and his Lord Sinan would not forsake him and if they should write they could not relieve him yet would he at leasure consider whether 't were fit for him to deliver up that City since on its defence depended all his honour and
Princes Lievtenant not able to endure or hear that the Province should again fall into the hands of the Germans went upon a sudden to assail Basta But he an old and xpert Commander perceiving even his first moving with great speed put his Army in order joyning Battel with him and with the losse of some 500 men overthrew Moyses with his Transilvanians Turks and Tartars slaying above 3000 and putting the rest to flight but Sigismund hearing what his Lievetenant had done went into the Camp to Basta excusing himself as done without his privity and against his will offering to perform whatever was by him to be performed according to the agreement and presently calling forth his Garrisons out of all strong places yet by him holden he surrendred them to Basta and so put himself on his way towards the Emperour after whose departure all that Province without more adoe yielded to Basta as to the Emperour's Lievtenant who calling an Assembly of all the Nobility took of them an Oath for their obedience and Loyalty to the Emperour But the mean while the Valachians not able longer to endure the great insolency of the Turks who after the death of Michael had made one Jeremiah Vayuod there took up Arms and proclaiming one Radoll the Emperours favourite Vayuod chased Jeremiah quite out of the Countrey who fleeing to Simon Palatine of Moldavia by his and the Turks help drave out Radoll again who now being with Basta with about 10000 Valachians earnestly requested him to help him for the recovery of Valachia who considering how much it concerned the quiet of Transilvania to have so near a Province a Friend gave him a great Regiment of approved Souldiers with whom at his entrance into Valachia the Moldavian meeting with a great power of his own and Turks there was fought a most bloudy Battel Radoll carrying away the Victory two Turks Bassaes being slain with a great number of others after which Radoll recovered his Government Shortly after with the same ayd cutting in pieces a great power of Tartars coming to ayd the Moldavians In Hungary the mean while passed many a hot skirmish for the Garrisons of Buda and other places attempting to surprize Alba Regalis were with great slaughter enforced to retire Then also Count 〈◊〉 suddenly setting upon 200 Turkish Wagons going to Canisia with Ammunition and Victualls slew and put to flight the Convoy and carried away the laden Wagons And shortly after the free 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 going in a great party towards Buda for booty returning homeward with sixty prisoners and hearing that Ali Governour of Pesth was coming but with a small retinue down the River to Belgrade there to meet the 〈◊〉 Bassa they slew all the prisoners and with two small Boats lay in wait for him who coming down accordingly they slew 14 of his 30 followers himself also being shot in two places was taken with a great booty whom they brought to Comara presenting him shortly after to Matthias at Vienna who certainly informing him that Hassan Bassa was coming with a great Army to besiege Alba Regalis presently sent thither Count Isolan the Governour who with much adoe getting into the City the Turks having already taken all passages and being a good Engineer caused all in the City to labour on the Rampiers so that it was soon so fortified that it seemed almost impregnable Ali was sometime the great Turks Butler but after the taking of Agria made Bassa of Buda being after 3 moneths by the envy and ambition of some displaced and made Governour of 〈◊〉 who offered for his ransom to the Haiducks 300000 Sultanines and had with him when taken 70000 Duckats Hassan Bassa by the Command of Sultan Mahomet coming to Buda by the way of Belgrade with 150000 men from thence came and encamped before Alba Regalis Aug. 12th where having well entrenched himself and planted his Battery he most terribly and furiously battered the same and because the Moorish and deep Ditches much letted his men from coming to the assault he had them filled up by the number of his Pioniers and so assaulted the Counterscarfe which Isolan had made before the City which assault though it cost him much blood yet the great number of the Turks prevailing the Christians were forced to retire into the City but they soon sallying out slew most of 〈◊〉 Turks in the Counterscarfe and forced the other out again whereupon multitudes of Turks came running thither and without regard of their lives desperately still pressing on fell twice as many as before so that the Christians weary and overwhelmed with their shot not without great losse abandoned the place with which skirmishes and divers others he Defendants were greatly diminished to keep a weak City as yet shewing the ruines of the late siege against so puissant an Enemy yet valiant Isolan the Italian not discouraged wrote to Matthias how things stood in the City requesting speedy relief or else it would be endangered many Souldiers being already slain and divers Hungarians daily fleeing to the Turks howbeit promising to do his utmost Whereupon the Arch-Duke ordered Lord Russworm to go to Comara and with such forces as were come thither to go and try if by any meanes they might put into Alba Regalis some fresh Souldiers who accordingly took the Field without delay with 12000 men but whilest by discord betwixt him and the other Colonels about the manner of relieving it the matter was too long delayed the Bassa Aug. 28. continued a general assault all that day and next night with some part of the day following without ceasing so that the Defendants much weakened and they that were left so wearied or wounded as that they could make no longer resistance and the Count himself being carried away dangerously shot in the thigh there was a sign of parley given to the Enemy which being granted some of the chief Commanders going to the Governour put him in minde of the weakness of the place the Enemies force and want of Defendants perswading him they not being relieved by divers reasons to yield the City wherewith he moved came to a parley with the Bassa who was right glad thereof wherein it was soon agreed that the COUNT should yield up the Town to the Bassa with all Warlike Ammunition therein himself with his Garrison with Bag Baggage and Arms safely to be convoyed half way to Rab. Upon the first bruit of this composition whilest the Merchants were seeking for Wagons to carry their Merchandize and the Souldiers for Horses to carry their Baggage the scarceness thereof bred a confusion and stir among the people so whilest some were quarrelling about these things and others were opening the Gates to be gone others were as busie in robbing and pilfering the Baggages of their Captains and Companions which encouraged the rest of the Souldiers to fall to pillage all also which the Souldiers keeping the breaches seeing left their charge and thrust themselves in among these pilferers as
if they themselves had been Victors and not vanquished The Tartars at the foot of the breach pressing now on without any great resistance entred the same and in a trice thirty thousand of them surprized the Christians at once loaded with prey fear and despair after whom the Turks entred also to partake of the spoil who besides their own booty quarrelled with the Tartars for some part of theirs but when there was no more pillage to be had the perfidious wretches fell to massacring the Christians so that all the City flowed with blood till by the coming in of the Bassa the slaughter was stayed whereby Count Isolan with some other Captains and Souldiers were saved three thousand Souldiers were slain besides not a few Citizens Isalan and the other Captains being led prisoners to Constantinople Howbeir he plainly shewed they were unjustly detained as taken contrary to the publick Faith to them before given and out of the actions of Warre Whereto it was answered that the Town when he was taken was yet still in his power that if he would by yielding challenge his liberty according to the Articles he ought then to have delivered it and not suffered it to have been taken by force c. that every Town which during the Treaty is 〈◊〉 force taken followeth the course of the latter condition to wit Death or Captivity and not of the former to wit Liberty for a man is not to expect of his mortall Enemy any other courtesie than what necessity caused him to promise which he may for his own good again violate c. With such quirks the Count deluded say what he could was carried away prisoner So the Bassa causing the breaches to be repaired and the City to be well furnished and leaving therein 6000 Souldiers over-ran all the Countrey as far as Strigonium and so retired to Buda where as he was making a Bridge betwixt Buda and Pesth and about to have gone to the Siege of Strigonium a Command came that he should speedily return to Constantinople for that Mahomet was for his valour now minded to employ him in his Wars against his Rebels in Natolia Whereupon the Bassa gave leave to all that had any charge to return to their places of Government appointing some others with 30000 Souldiers to go with Zachiel Moises into 〈◊〉 who was come 〈◊〉 Hassan offering with this ayd and the help of others in Transilvania to chase 〈◊〉 with his Germanes out from thence and reduce it again unto the devotion of the Othoman Emperors So the Bassa hasted with the rest towards Constantinople which he was thought the more willingly to do because the Sultan had put him in good hope to marry one of his Aunts a Woman of great Wealth and Honour if by the winning of Alba Regalis he should make himself worthy thereof But ere long the Imperials assembled at Comara to the number of about 30000 with twelve Nassadies and two Galleys some by water some by Land went down to Strigonium where they were all embarqued in twenty other Ships and conducted by Rusworme and others to Buda whose coming was so sudden and unlooked for that the Turks had no time to take any more help or provision into the City The Turks had lately built a Bridge upon Boats over 〈◊〉 for passage and carriage of things from Buda to Pesth which Bridge the Imperials thinking necessary first to break the more easily to besiege the one or other City by a strange device built a Ship which by force of the stream carried down and resting upon the Bridge should break the same which Ship the Turks seeing coming with the rest of the 〈◊〉 ran by heaps to the Bridge for defence thereof in the mean time Count Sultze on the Land side with a Petard blew up one of the Gates of the lower City and so entring and killing whom he lighted on came upon the backs of the Turks at the Bridge slaying some driving others into the River the rest fleeing into the City where both Souldiers and Citizens the Christians following them for fear took a speedy resuge into the upper City much stronger than the lower the Bridge being then also broken upon the River and because they of Pesth might with their Ordnance much annoy them in besieging the upper City and Castle of Buda they began with it first So Russworme with his Fleet making a great shew as if he would have entred on the Rivers side had drawn most of the Garrison unto that side of the City and the while Sultze and another Governour suddenly scaled the Walls on the Land side and gained them whereupon began a great out-cry the Turks especially now feeling the Christians Weapons before they knew they were gotten into the City In this so great amazement some fled into Towers others hid themselves in Cellars and the most secret corners out of which they were drawn and slain They also in the strong places of the City seeing the Ordnance bent upon them offered to yield so they might with Wives Children and life depart promising for that favour to perswade them of Buda to yield also Whereupon Nadasti with some other Captains were 〈◊〉 with some of these Citizens to Buda who coming thither with Wives and Children most earnestly requested them to yield as not to expect any further help and that by their obstinacy they should cause the death of them their friends Wives and Children unto whom also Nadasti promised that they should all except a few Commanders in safety depart howbeit they would not hearken In Pesth the Christians found great store of Wealth with one thousand serviceable Horses and much Warlike provision This done they returned to besiege the upper City and Castle of Buda undermining and battering the same and had planted some of their Ordnance so high that they could at pleasure shoot into the streets they thundered also at the same time with other batteries in divers places of the Walls both of Castle and City and hearing that the Turks Garrisons were coming for their relief they sent out their Horse and some Foot against them who gave them a great overthrow and so returned unto the siege where while the Christians lay in hope and had Octob. 12th planted certain notable Pieces near the Walls purposing next day with all their power to assault the City Hassan hearing as he was going toward Constantinople of what had hapned returned and unlooked for came and sate down before Pesth with but about five and twenty thousand men yet most of them expert Souldiers divers brave attempts being in both places made both on the one side and the other The besieged in Pesth one day under the Conduct of their brave Captains sallied out and coming with the Turks to the Sword disordered and forced them to flee pursuing them even to their Trenches whence a great Squadron issuing out constrained the Imperials to retire Count Martinengo doing what he might to have stayed the disordered 〈◊〉
surprized Hust and other places in the Emperour's Name Wherefore the Sultan wrote to the Nobles and States of that Province telling them among other things That he held Bethlem Gabor worthy to succeed Bator and enjoy Transilvania where he purposed to do no wrong there nor suffer it to be done by any other and therefore he would have the Emperour advertised That if he meant to have the peace preserved he should cause those places to be presently restored to the Prince or signifie his mind to him by Letters Of the Rebels in Asia Facardin Emir of Sidon hearing that the Bassa of Damas and the Bassa of the sea came to fall upon him with a mighty Army left his eldest son with Forces in Sidon and other Forts about it and with 3 ships retired into Europe with his 4 Wives 10 Sons 70 Turks and 14000 pound weight of Gold he went from Ligorne to Florence under the protection of Cosmo the G. Duke kissing his Hands and presenting him with a very curious Cutlass enrich't with stones 2 Jewels to his Dutchess worth 6000 Crowns Cosmo received this Turk with all kind of 〈◊〉 defraying his charge and furnishing him with mony They say that Emir made many good Overtures for setling the Christians in Asia and Cosmo had proved the good intentions of most Christian Princes by many generous enterprizes against the Turk but one Prince cannot do all Novemb. 10. A fearfull Tempest full of Winds Thunder and Lightning caused the loss of many Vessels in the Port of Genoa the loss being above 800000 Crowns with a number of persons drowned Naples was not free and the Malta Galleys with many other Vessels had great loss The Sultan having this 2 years had great loss in the Mediterranean by the Galleys of Naples Malta Florence and in the Euxine by the Cassocks charged the Christian Armenians to build him 9 Galleys at their own costs and the Grecians 20 such is the Tyrannie of the Turk over the poor Christians Nassuf the Visier re 〈◊〉 with his Prince from Hadrianople many Janzaries conspired to kill him as he should enter in at the North gate placing themselves there to that end but the Sultan called for him to speak with him keeping him by him till entred into the City whereby he escaped Nassuf shortly after invited the Sultan to a sumptuous Peast and few dayes after he caused all the Crosses in the Temple of Sophia to be thrown down and the Images defaced which had stood entire ever since the Christians Government The year before the Persian King had put to death 1200 Armenians the English Embassadour's Chaplain desirous of the reason conferred with the Armenian Patriarch at Constantinople for there are 2 one being under the Persian and the other at Constantinople under the Turk who told him it was by an Armenian who had counterfeited Letters from the Armenian Patriarch offering to acknowledge the Pope for his and his Churches Head entreating him to write to the King of Persia to give them free leave to do it The Pope bountifully rewarding the Messenger wrote to the King to let them use their consciences who in a rage caused many Armenians to be put to death saying If they would be Obedient to the Pope he would expect no service from them yet the Papists said 't was doue by the Patriarch but the Armenians by a counterfeit Rogue Soon after there arrived a Circassian a Georgian Bishop and a Mingrelian Embassadour at Constantinople complaining of the Persians oppression and cruelty and imploring Succours from the Sultan and straitway came a Persian Embassadour whom the Sultan would not hear till all differences were ended betwixt himself and the Emperour who having sent Gasparo once a servant to the English Embassadour to treat with him at length all matters were reconciled The Year 1614. began with great Prodigies in Hungary and Silesia over Vienna the Heavens were most fearfully red and darkened but all these signes had none other effect this year but the ruin of Nassuf Bassa Grand Visier of the Turkish Empire who being the Son of a Greek Priest and a Tribute child the Turks exacting from the Christians one of three was sold for three Chequines not above 24 s. to an Eunuch at Constantinople And afterwards pleasing the Sultana in overseeing the Building of her stately Mosque she made him Governour of her Houshold thence he was made Capigi Bassa by the Sultan and then Bassa of Aleppo and soon after Governour of all 〈◊〉 where his Ambition made him practise with the King of Persia an ancient Enemy to his Master who dissembling the Knowledge of his treachery the more to gain him made him after Muraths death G. Visier giving him all his goods and making him his Generall against the Persian promised him his Daughter He entring Persia forced Ka Abbas that King to conclude a peace beneficiall to his Master He presents a Million of Gold to his Emperour is well received at the Seraglio and married the Sultans Daughter but he fearing his Spirit commands Bostangi Bassa to execute him about the end of the year Nassuf was then sick at his House whither Bostangi goes with but 7 or 8 men because of suspition demanding to speak with him who excused himself by his servants by reason of sickness the Bostangi replied He could not return to the Sultan who sent him to have certain news of his health before he had seen him Nassuf hereat distrusted yet believing whatever happened to him was inevitable bid them let him enter who at first complemented with him and asked him about his health and then drew forth a Command to Nassuf to deliver the Seal of the Empire which done he drew out another enjoyning him to send the Sultan his Head Nassuf crying aloud desired to speak with him but the Bostangi said He had no such Commission then he entreats him to let him wash himself in the next Chamber that his sonl according to the Turks belief might not depart in pollution this being also denied him the 7 or 8 Capigies invironed his Bed to whom at last he turning himself willed them to do their duties Whereupon they cast a cord about his neck to strangle him but his fatness not suffering them to take away his life presently they cut his throat His designs tended to the ruin of the Christians perswading his Master to break peace with the Emperor the French King and the Venetians promising him to make him Monarch of the whole World that he might keep his spirit in action make himself necessary to his Master and live more safely in Combustions than in a Calm Whereas the Envy and Malice of his Enemies gave him many furious assaults Achmat took his riches into his Chasna or Treasury among which were found about two Bushels of Pearls and Diamonds His death is otherwise related by one then in Constantinople The Sultan dissembled his great discontent against him till some fit opportunity yet Nassuf
a sign to Correskie to salley forth but he was already come above 300 paces The Bassa hereupon began to be amazed and sending two thousand horse to second his other Troops retired apart with Stephano and the rest of the Turkish Cavalry to attend the event a most furious Combate there was for two hours full of fearful howlings of Turks who at last fainted seeing no succours come whereas if the Bassa and Stephano had joyned with them they had by all appearance won the Victory but they seeing no means to collect their routed forces retreated with above two thousand horse which had not yet fought Tischevich and Correskie the while cut all in pieces they could meet and drawing all their men together stood upon the place suffering none to go to the spoyl before assured of the Enemies hasty retreat fearing a pursuit but the Princes men and horses were almost tired above twelve thousand men being slain besides prisoners and wounded Alexander returning so Cochina they gave thanks to God for this Victory and the Princes and Ladies much joyed who in the Fort attended the fearful Event and Coreskie two dayes after the Victory was married to Alexandrina to the great content of all the Court. The Bassa and Stephano going to Yas and finding no safety the one went presently to Constantinople and the Tyrant to Pr. Michna who was his only support though he had apparently mock'd him but he first fired Yas in many places so that of 22000 houses but 600 were untouched The Princes coming and finding it desolate next day marched towards Valachia to punish Stephano and on t'other side of the River Siretta Michna had 400 men in a Burrough to keep the Frontiers who putting themselves in defence were every one cut in pieces the Inhabitants being well intreated as not resisting and hating Michna for the vexations from the said Garrison resting 3 days they speedily marched towards Bonza and coming within a league of that City some Country-men ran thither wishing Michna to save himself speedily from the Polonian Army he was ready to go to Dinner with Stephano but now he was so amazed that running into his stable he mounted without a saddle and went towards Tergovist with a few one of whom gave him his own horse which was better furnished Stephano upon his own horse flying alone towards Nicopolis The Princes entring Bonza were wondrously grieved at Stephano's escape and that Michna whom they would not have hurt was so amazed Their Army at first entrance spoiled the City ravishing many which drew the future wrath of God upon them yet the Princes could not hinder them During their abode many Boyers Michna governing insolently came and besought Alexander to stay in Valachia promising the whole Nobility would willingly obey him but he thanking them onely for their good will they told him they would be glad that Prince 〈◊〉 who governing before Michna had been expelled by Bethlehem Gabor might suddainly return to the Vayuodship intreating him to give him passage thorow Moldavia out of Germany if he came which he willingly granted because Michna favoured his Enemy and had himself a designe upon Moldavia Michna staying some dayes at Playa attending his train sent to his wife at Tergovist with all speed to go to Nicopolis fearing the Princes would seize both upon them and their Estates Then coming himself to Tergovist he sent to Alexander to know why he entered Valachia with an Army without cause he having shewen that he was his Friend in not assisting the Bassa and Stephano nigh Cochina though they appeared much stronger and if he meant onely to seize upon Stephano he was fled another way promising if he ever took him to deliver him up to him intreating him to retire without further spoyl and that they might remain good Friends Pr. Alexander answered the Embassadour he had sent to informe his Master the Day before that he meant not to attempt any thing against him but onely Stephano who had Fired the City Yas which that Michna might know he had sent him back his Plate and all his rich Moveables the Embassadour thanking him and returning found all 〈◊〉 Michna being freed from fear Alexander sent Troianoskie with 2000 Horse to pursue Stephano but he heard he had passed 〈◊〉 with his Wife and a small train 1500 Tartars advertised of this pursuit but with 1000 and that they were tyred therein came to Charge them but Troianoskie discovering them afar off in a Plain had leisure to put his Men into four squadrons they approaching and discovering their number would gladly have retired but Troianoskie Commanding two squadrons suddenly to Charge they were presently defeated above 400 being slain the rest flying but 25 Poles were 〈◊〉 and 50 hurt The Princes resolving to leave Valachia forbad all on pain of Death to carry away Valachians with them hearing some were seized on for Ransome-sake being upon their March they heard the Horreoveans were again up in Arms refusing to own or pay to Alexander unless it could appear he was confirmed by the Sultan Coreskie being sent thither with 5000 Men they yielded without resistance Then Coreskie besiedged Bialigront on the River Bohou held by the Tartars-Praecopenses where was a Garrison of Janlzaries and many Moldavian Boyers who making many salleys slew above 300 of his Men himself being like to be taken if Tiscevich and his Troop had not speedily forced the Enemies to retire leaving many dead on the place Coreskie being without Cannon now rose and returned to Yas and soon after Hebraym Bassa wrote to Alexander as if his Friend and told him thenceforth he should be quiet in Moldavia because the chief Stephano's greatest Supporter was in disgrace promising to imploy himself for him to the Sultan this was to make him carelesse or draw some reward from him if the grand Seignior should confirme him as it was somewhat likely for soon after they heard he had commanded that Bassa to bring Stephano alive or dead with all belonging to him from Brahile whither he was retired Who marching thitherward withall diligence and a 〈◊〉 with him sent one to tell Stephano of his coming and that next day he would dine with him he distrusting nothing went early to meet him alighting to do him reverence as the Bassa did where after some little conference he drew out a Commission to seize upon him and carry him to Constantinople Whereupon Stephano willed his Servants to shift for themselves then the 〈◊〉 struck Him betwixt the Shoulders with his Mace and binding him hand and foot they drew him in a Cart with four horses to Constantinople where to avoid punishment for his wicked actions and flight he turned Turk The Bassa also had sent to seiz on all he had at Brahile and Nicopolis where his wife was so that he had nothing left but continual torment of conscience for his barbarous cruelties in 〈◊〉 Some of his men telling at Yas what befell him in their sight they generally
Kingdom hoping to stay the other Princes coming thereby which extorted oath the Pope dispensed withal Guy now came to Tyre but could not for their sworn obedience to Montferrat be received But departing he besieged Ptolemais with the power he had with whom the Venetian Fleet them of Pisa and 50 sail of Flemings joyned to win the City Saladine came with a great 〈◊〉 for relief there was fought a great battel and had not Geffrey the Kings brother come from the Camp with supplies the Christians who had at first the better had had a notable overthrow yet 2000 were slain Saladine sent for his strong rigged Fleet at Alexandria putting men and victuals into the City The encouraged Turks made often salleys whipping in despight the Image of Christ crucified on top of the Wall Saladine scoured the Seas with this Fleet that no supplies could come to the Camp So that some Christians through famine shortly arising fled to the Turks for bread Saladine making shew as not understanding thereof departed leaving his Camp full of victuals The Christians supposing he had gone for fear hastened to the forsaken Camp of whom Saladine returning made a great slaughter yet they with many a skirmish by Sea and Land continued the Winters siege expecting aid the next Spring Frederick the Emperour with other Princes the mean time set forward from 〈◊〉 arriving at length at Constantinople where Isaac Angelus Emperour honourably for fear and fashion entertaining him hastened his passage into Asia pretending the Christians need of aid who passing the strait and marching into Lycaonia overthrew the Turks in a great battel sent to stop him 〈◊〉 the Iconium Sultan which City he took by force giving the spoyl to his Souldiers in revenge of his Unkle Conrade Then he overthrew them in Cilicia taking Philomela racing the City to the ground and putting all to the sword because they slew his summoning Messengers He likewise took Melitene in lesser Armenia overthrowing a huge Army coming for relief with an exceeding slaughter Then he 〈◊〉 Saladin's Sons Army in Comagena But his horse foundring in the River Saleph at his too eager chase his foot hanging in the stirrop he was drawn thorow and taken for dead yet with much ado he uttered Lord receive my soul and gave up the ghost of whom Saladine was greatly afraid He perished June 10 1190. aged 70 years reigning 38 his body was pompously buried in Tyre's Cathedral Frederick his Son Duke of 〈◊〉 was chosen General whose 〈◊〉 Army the Turks fiercely charging in hopes to overthrow returned with some losse and like speed as they came But famine began to encrease the Turks having destroyed and carried away all yet Antioch being easily delivered him his Souldiers were well refreshed by the Christian Citizens 15 daies after the Plag ue began to rage there among his Souldiers and he glad to take the open field and setting forward against Do Dequin 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 sent for out of Egypt they joyned a great and doubtfull battel the Christians 〈◊〉 in valour they in number At length the Christians Vauntg uard began to retire their seconds hardly charged Frederick breaking in with a valiant Troop the Turks gave ground Leopold of Austria presently coming with his foot they speedily fled 4000 slain 1000 taken and 15 Ensigns small losse of the Christians After which he passed Laodicea easily taking Berytus with other revolted Cities So coming to Tyre buried his Father Thence certifying Guy at Ptolemais of his coming who sent Montferrat to transport him by Sea because of Saladin's great Army and being safely conducted with his Souldiers to the Camp at 〈◊〉 he was 〈◊〉 received After whose coming 't was thought good to affault the City round every Regiment being appointed what place to assaile which was done with such fury as if they purposed to gage their whole forces the Turks still beating them from the walls top But now Saladine hovering aloof came suddenly on the Christians Camp notably receiving the first charge but giving ground some Tents with Ensigns were taken and Pavilions fired having slain above 100. The Christians retired from the assault to relief of their Camp the Turk retired also having almost lost himself This 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 was Octob. 14. Divers Princes the mean while of the West came thither rather increasing famine than furthering service Then also Conrade of Montferrat who had married Isabel the Queens sister pretending a Title to the Kingdom much hindred proceedings But Duke Frederik dying shortly at the siege of the plague and buried at Tyre the Christians attempted no great matter but lay entrenched expecting aid from the Princes which were Philip 2. of France and Richard King of England on whom all the hope of affairs in Syria rested who met at Marselles in province with combined forces for relief The French King first departed for Sicilia with a prosperous gale but coming nigh the Island through a sudden tempest he with much ado arived at Messena tossed in the deep many ships perishing some broken on sands and rocks and all sore weather-beaten Richard arived after 〈◊〉 better fortune Both Kings resolved there to Winter the French being 〈◊〉 so to do for supplies from France King Richard and Tancred the now aspiring King of Sieily had like to break out into war about the Queens Richard's sisters Dowry had it not 〈◊〉 taken up But it fell out whilst the Kings of England and France often met as good friends c. that jealousie and distrust revived old and raised new quarrels to the great hinderance of the common good they intended a warning to great Princes willing to hold a unity never to converse or stay long together An old quarrel was Richard's rejecting Adela the others sister for suspition of too much familiarity with his Father Henry the 2d and espousing Berengaria the King of Navar 's Daughter which 〈◊〉 brake 〈◊〉 to this Expeditious overthrow and disturbance of their Realms The French King at Spring loosed from Messana arriving safely at Ptolemais and was received by the Christians as succours from Heaven Richard shortly following two ships of whose weather-beaten Fleet were driven on Cyrus the Islanders spoyling them slaying and taking the men that hardly escaped the Sea and forbidding the rest to land The King moved landed by force fully conquering the Island and taking Isaac Comnen commonly called their King sent him bound in silver chains into Syria Then there at Limozin he married Berengaria and set forward after disposal of things he took of the Sultans a great ship laden with victuals warlike provisions and was most honourably received at 〈◊〉 which had been besieged 3 years with many a hot assault and bloudy skirmish The eys of all were fixed on these two Kings The Camp chiefly consisted of English French Italians and Almains as also many others from Zeale daily coming in These thus besieging had laboriously undermined that called the accursed Tower with part of the Wall appointing every Regimen to assail
the wall at the firing of the Mine in which assault the Tower fell with part of the wall opening a fair breach The Turks forthwith in a Parley yielded the City July 12 1191 and were to restore the holy Crosse 2000 Captives 200 horsemen of those they required being in Saladin's power 200000 Ducats to be given to the 2 Kings for their cost the City Turks being to remain hostages for performance and to be at the Kings mercy if all were 〈◊〉 performed in 40 daies The Austrians as the only men first at entry advanced their Ensigns on the walls top which Richard especially not brooking caused their Dukes Ensigns to be soyled under foot to his after repentance The 2 Kings dividing the spoyl not regarding the other Christians they withdrew and sent them word except they they were partaker of the gains as of the pains they would forsake them many the Kings delaying their promisés departing for poverty discontented into their Countries But ere long envy and distrust ministred new matter of greater discontentments between the 2 Kings King Richard requested the French King to bind himself with him by oath to stay 3 years for regaining Syria and Palestine but he estranged before from Richard plotting matters nearer home would not be perswaded so to do but in a colour fell very sick sending for Richard and others to whom in few words he declared his purpose That seeing he could not indure the hot air's intemperature and that the life of one absent might more profit Christian Religion c. than the death of him present he must depart but would leave 5000 horse and 10000 foot choise men under Odo Duke of Burgundy giving them pay and supply of all things King Richard said his return was to invade Guien and Normandy now disfurnished of Garrisons which point he so urged that Philip bound himself to him by Oath no way to attempt any thing until 50 daies after Richard's return home And embarquing the rest of his Army he Aug. 1. departed to Tyre thence to Rome visiting the Pope and so safely arrived in France having performed nothing to what the world expected Leopold of Austria followed and shortly the Venetians Pisans and Genoans Whereupon Saladine refused to pay the promised mony or restore the prisoners threatning to chop off all Captives heads if extremity were used to the pledges Richard refused Saladin's request and presents for longer sparing his pledges whereupon he beheaded the Christian Captives and Richard Aug. 20 in sight of Saladin's Army executed 2500 or as some write 7000 Turks prisoners Saladine as it commonly happens in a great Commanders ill successe much impaired his reputation by the losse of Prolemais wherefore with a headlong despair he sacked ruined and overthrew the walls of Porphyria Casaria Joppa Ascalon Gaza and Elam with divers other places like to stand the Christians in stead most part whereof were fortified and re-peopled by Richard and the Templers though Saladine endeavoured to let them But nothing more hindred the Christian Princes proceedings then discord among themselves for besides the strife of the Kings of France and England no lesse was between King Guy and Conrade of Montferrat about the lost Kingdom 's title Richard with othesr taking Guy's part and the French King with others taking part with Conrade who being shortly slain by two Assassines or 〈◊〉 suborned by the Prince of Torone for taking from him Isabel his espoused wife Richard perswaded Isabel his Widow to marry his Nephew the Earl of Campaine giving him Tyre Guy exclaiming as of a wrong unto himself But shortly after he perswaded Guy to resign his small title in the Kingdom to him and gave him Cyprus in lieu thereof Richard becoming hereby King of Jerusalem Guy lived not long in the Kingdom of Cyprus yet 't was about 283 years in the Lusignan family until it fell into Uenetian hands who held it nigh 100 years till Selymus 2 Turkish Emperor took it from them in 1571. King Richard was now more desirous of Jerusalem than before And thereupon set forward himself in the Vantguard Otho following him and Jaques with his Flemings c. in the rear being come to Arsua Saladine with ambuscadoes charged the rear-ward on whom Jaques turning endured the charge till the rest came to their succoúr The French English and Low-countrey-men strove honourably in that notable battel especially the Turks part their only hopes depending on Jerusalem it continued from noon till the Suns going down Richard some write was wounded with an arrow 〈◊〉 was slain leaving the victory to the Christians more Turks are said to be slain than in any battel in mans memory the Christians lost no great number They removed the next 〈◊〉 to Bethlehem but the King through Winters approach c. returned with most to Ascalon which that Winter he fortified Otho wintred at Tyre many departed then from the Camp however at Spring Richard took the field and came to Bethlehem taking by the way very many loaded Camels sent to furnish Jerusalem but Otho who knew the French Kings mind perswaded the Frenchmen that the glory would redound to Richard as present through whose unwillingnesse to the siege Richard to his grief returned to Ptolemais News also was then brought that Philip of France forgetting his promise had invaded Normandy stirring up Richard's brother to take on him Englands Kingdom Richard fearing he might lose his Kingdom at home thought best to make 〈◊〉 good end with Saladine and so return But the politick Sultan to weaken the Christians forces and discourage others from coming thither afterwards offered no other conditions than that the Christians should restore all they had won in the 3 years Ptolemais excepted and that the Turks for 5 years should not molest them which the King was willing to accept of whereby the labour c. of these two Kings and others were frustrated the Christians having only Antioch Tyre and Ptolemais left in Syria Richard leaving those affairs to Henry Earl of Champain shipped most of his men with his Wife for England they arriving safely there but himself from Sicily following was by extremity of weather driven on the coast of Histria and travelling homeward in a Templars habit was by Leopold of Austria taken prisoner who sold him to the Emperour for 40000 pounds and after 1 year 3 months was ransomed for 100000 li. The great Sultan Saladine about this time dyed who commanded no solemnity to be used at his burial but his shirt carried on a Lance point as an Ensign a plain Priest crying before his dead body Saladine Conquerour of the East of all the greatness and riches he had in his life carrieth nothing with him after death more than his shirt He reigned about 16 years leaving 9 Sons all except Saphradine Sultan of Aleppo murthered by Saphradine their Uncle from whom discended Meledin Sultan of Aegypt and Coradin of Damaseo and Jerusalem Pope Celestine was now in hope that Jerusalem might in
Foot and 1000 Horse raw Souldiers commanded by the Gentlemen of the Countrey The greatest hope being reposed in 1200 Italian Foot and 600 Horse the whole number of Souldiers in Garrison were deemed about 8000 Horse and Foot too weak a Company against so fierce and strong an enemy under an old and expert General The Venetians having ever great care of Cyprus as remote oft intended to have fortified it but lest they should seem to distrust or dread the Turks left it still undone Nicosia stands in a Champain Countrey about five miles in circuit magnificently built and for its wholsom and commodious scituation notably peopled the Venetians had fortified it lately with new Walls thick Rampiers 11 strong Bulwarks and 3 great Fortresses for defence of the Wall which they did well furnish with Men and Warlike Provision yet they found that Fortifications are strengthened by Defendants rather than Defendant by Fortifications July 22. the Bassa encamped within a mile and half of the City the Turks issuing out rode before the Walls and Gates and with often and lowd out-cries upbraided the Defendants whose silence was taken as a token of fear Mustapha also coming and fully viewing its Walls and Scituation shortly after they drew nearer filling with their Tents the lower part of the Hill Mandia setting the Bassaes Tent upon the Hill to the terrour of the Defendants and encouragement of the Turks who brought their Trenches from far casting up a few Forts but as their Army increased many more which they raised above the Walls making the City more dangerous to defend There with 70 great Pieces they battered the City day and night without ceasing many being slain with the shot and the pieces of stones beaten out of the walls Never such a fear as then within Nicosia the enemy with restless labour bringing his Trenches to the very brim of the Town-ditch which had not been well scoured Being so nigh they first skirmished a farre off with small Pieces but afterwards they battered with their great Artillery and overwhelmed the Defendants with thick small shot Arrowes and stones to drive them off the Wall and Rampiers Not onely the Curtains betwixt three Bulwarks were soon 〈◊〉 down but all places thereabouts lay full of the dead bodies of Assailants and Defendants These through desperation joyned with necessity besides defending their Walls with small shot stones c. oft made great slaughter of them with their Artillery and murthering Pieces dismounting also many of their great Pieces and with Feather-beds Sacks of Cotton-Wooll making up the breaches which the Turks laboured to burn with Pitch Barrels and Pots of Wild-fire and after long fight entring the Ditch made two wayes to the Walls which they so fortified on both sides that they were safe from the loups of the Bulwarks flankering the Ditch presently setting up Scaling Ladders filling the Ditches and were digging down the Foundation of two Bulwarks The Christians in the first assault struck many down dead climbing up the Ladders and soon 〈◊〉 more than themselves were forced the rest to give over the assault in these first and hard conflicts a number of Souldiers were lost and most of the Cannoniers slain After this assault both parties were busied a while in ingenious devices The Venetians had in good time put their Fleet to sea but being too weak they lay still about Jadera expecting the coming of the Spanish Admiral with his Galleys Two moneths were past and no news thereof so that the Venetians speed and industry was marred by the Spaniards delay and lingring besides the plague at length grew so hot in the Fleet that there was neither Marriner nor Souldier left in many Galleys 20000 dying thereof among whom were many of great account The plague well ceased and Zanius weary of expecting the Spanish Admiral collecting his dispersed Fleet sailed to Corcyra where he met with Venerius who had lately taken from the Turks Suppoto a sea-Town over against it All their Fleet was now 117 sayl 12 being Galleasses but too weak for the Turks they being weakly manned yet the Admiral sorry for Cyprus's spoil and the distresse of Nicosia landed at Suda in Creet Aug. 12. In the latter end whereof Columnius for the Pope and Auria for the Spanish King arrived there also welcomed with great triumph so that there was now 192 Galleys 12 Galleasses 〈◊〉 Vessels laden with provision and Ammunition c. The Pope set forth 12 Galleys the Spaniards 42 proportionably manned The 3 Commanders after long consulting by Zanius's perswasion about the midst of Septemb. with a fair gale of wind set forward for Cyprus keeping such order as if they should presently have met with the enemy Loredanus Duke of Venice died in these troubles leaving the rest of the care to Moscnicus his Successour While the Christians slowly proceed Mustapha dividing his Army into 4 parts assaulted 4 Bulwarks of the City with greater force than before the presence of the General besides their natural fiercenesse carrying the Turks head-long without peril and the fear of life and liberty with hope of relief encouraging the Defendants to dare any thing many Turks were slain and their Ladders overthrown the poor Defendants being brought to a small number few or none escaping unwounded many thought the City might then have been taken if the Bassa had still brought on fresh men but his loss was such that for that time he gave over the assault After this some thought good whilst they had some reasonable strength to salley forth upon the enemy which Dandulus in no case liked as loath to diminish the number of the Defendants yet he yielded to the desire of the Captains so in the hottest time of the day some Italian Companies under Caesar and Albertus issued forth and suddenly brake into the enemies Trenches where the Turks were playing and sleeping At first the Italians brought great fear upon that quarter and slew many but the Turks running in on every side they were glad to retire divers being slain and their 2 Leaders so that this salley only weakened the Defendants and caused the Turks to keep better watch and ward All hope of long holding out now almost lost the Defendants scarcely shewing their Heads without danger They sent out skilful Scouts to the Country people who in great multitudes had 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the Mountains to tell them if they came not in time to their relief their wives and children sent into the City must shortly fall into the enemie's Hands or perish with Hunger but these being intercepted were in sight of the 〈◊〉 tortured to death When divers Letters were shot into the City perswading the Christians by mild promises and extream threatnings to yield but in vain Mustapha called forth certain Souldiers on a Bulwark to parley some being sent to him who complained that no answer was given to his Letters setting forth the power of the Turkish Empire propounding great miseries and shewing the profit of yielding up the
City offering them large entertainment concluding they should never find so much offered grace afterward The Bassa did this doubting the coming of the Christian Fleet and his Army being exceedingly troubled with diseases but the Souldiers answered they yet doubted not of their own strength being ready to endure any thing rather than prefer the uncertain friendship of an unknown prince before the favour of such worthy Princes as they had so good experience of The Bassa grieved and enraged made ready for the assault promising great things to those who should first or second mount the Walls encouraging them with the small number and feeblenesse of their enemies the approach of hoped rewards and end of their labours c. Some he reproved in that general assault some mindful of promises others of disgrace with their thick shot and Ordnance suffered none to stand safely on the walls by whose ruines and in other places they attempted with scaling-Ladders to enter which they maintained for divers dayes without intermission fresh men still coming on yet the Defendants performed what was possible for so few to do still in hope that relief might come by the approach of the Christian Fleet. At length when the Turks were in great hope to gain the walls and Mustapha guessed the Christians to be weary and sore weakened which was also confirmed by some fugitives yet he sounded a retreat laying still all next day The Defendants thinking he had given over because of some ayd coming to them upon that vain Hope became more carelesse But the Bassa choosing out about 200 of his best valiant and 〈◊〉 Captains and Souldiers sent them early next day to try if they could without noise set up Ladders and get into those 4 Bulwarks before-shaken These getting up others followed so taking the Bulwarks and presently other Companies standing ready in divers places with Ladders recovered the top of the Walls In every Bulwark was 140 Italians and Epirots who part asleep as fearing no danger and part laying on the ground were surprized and slain other-some awaked with the noise leapt down out of the Bulwarks at places next to them some running unawares into the midst of their Enemies Upon the Alarm some Captains came speedily with their Companies to the Walls as Eugenius who crying out to some he met not so cowardly to flee and staying others was slain with a small shot Other Captains also in other places labouring in vain to stay the fleeing Souldiers The Defendants now gathered into the Market place but the Citizens stood in the entrance of their Houses fearfully expecting their own and their Countries destruction The Governour of Aleppo the while scoured the Walls round putting all to the sword they met a Company of the Italians at the Bulwark Earbarus fighting desperately a while but were at last overthrown and slain After this he came down into the City and seeing those in the Market-place fight as desperate men in a Ring he bent murdering-pieces upon them Whereupon they laid down their Weapons yielding to mercy By and by all the Gates were strongly guarded that none should go in or out Dandulus with the Bishop of Paphos and the other Nobles and better sort of Citizens stood on their guard in the Town-Hall to 〈◊〉 Mustapha sent word he would take them all to mercy if they without more resistance would yield but while Messengers ran to and fro the Turks breaking in slew them every man after which they spared none and slaying those in the streets brake into the Houses making havock of all things Babes were taken from their mothers Virgins ravished women before their Husbands faces abused Temples spoiled and all places filled with mourning and dead bodies for in the City was slain that day 14866 persons It s reported the prey there taken amounted to 20000 millions of Duckats 200 of the most goodly youths were chosen to be sent a present to Selimus 250 pieces of Ordnance were taken some being carried away the rest left for defence Thus famous Nicosia fell into the Turks Hands Septemb. 9. 1570. Mustapha with the terrour of his Name rather than by force brought most of the Towns under his obedience and by promise of good usage brought back the Countrey people who had fled into the Mountains with all they had to their dwellings to till and sow as they were wont He sent a Sanzack to summon the City Syrene strongly scituate and well furnished for a long siege but Palacius the Governour no sooner saw the enemy but he delivered it up to him only to depart thence with all his Garrison which was easily granted Ere long Mustapha leaving a strong Garrison in Nicosia marched to besiege Famagusta for terrours-sake sending to them by a Country fellow in a Basket Dandulus's Head sending before him divers Horsmen who upon their staves carried the Heads of many slain Nobles so riding in triumph about the Walls but they of Famagusta not terrified thereby to yield he encamped about 3 miles off and casting up divers Mounts he placed battery against the Tower defending the Haven Himself the while battering the Gate leading to Amathus But perceiving by their desperate salleys he was like to have much more here to do than at Nicosia and Winter drawing fast on it being reported also the Christian Fleet was at hand he rose with his Army further off billeting his Souldiers in the Villages round for that Winter Haly and Piall in doubt of the Fleets coming then at Creet sent out 6 Galliots to discover the Christians doings who returning with some prisoners taken in Creet declared what they heard and that the Christian Fleet was on their way to Cyprus Whereupon the Bassaes set forward from before Famagusta towards Limisso to meet them who were coming between the Isles Caprathos and Rhodes but there hearing that Nicosia was lost and that the Turks were come to besiege Famagusta they called a Council to consult what best to do Columnus then chief Commander and Zanius thought it best to hold on and relieve Famagusta because it was like that the Turks proud of Victory for desire of prey had left their Fleet but slenderly manned alledging also the Senates express decree to give The Turks battel but Auria thinking of the matter as it was said He marvelled how the Venetian Senatours sitting at ease in Counsel before knowledge of their own and enemies strength the nature of the Countrey and purpose of their foes could determine what were fit for martial men to do to whose actions no certain Rule could be prescribed and besides divers difficulties and wants alleadged he said he had express command from the King of Spain to return to Messana before Winter Wherefore when the month was out he would depart Zanius urged Auria to proceed saying So great ayd was not sent from the Pope and King only for reliefe of Nicosia but to deliver the whole Island from the danger of the Turk Divers great Captains were of