should not be named in Church prayers till better conformed But meeting afterwards in the Patriarchs house who secretly favoured him they conspired divers Nobles consenting against the old Emperour binding themselves to continue constant About 3 dayes after the Bells ringing and the people flocking the Patriarch pronounced excommunication against all omitters of his name in publique prayers or refusing to do him all honour Which it appears grieved the old Emperour saying If the Doctor of Peace be so mad against us who shall represse the Vulgars rash attempts c. So the contrary Bishops excommunicated him likewise with his bribed followers the Emperour committing him to safe-keeping in a Monastery About 〈◊〉 daies after the young one came to the walls to know the acceptation of his Messengers requesting he might enter alone into the City to do his duty to his Grand-father but such as stood on the walls not abiding to hear him speak drave him away with stones c. and so for that time he retired a little But at night some busie heads gave him knowledge that about mid-night they would be ready with ropes to draw him to the top of the Bulwarks But he approaching found no such matter the watchmen carefully watching and calling one to another Wherefore with Catacuzene and Synadenus he rowed softly along the wall towards the Sea but there the watchmen calling and receiving no answer began to cast stones at them so they departed as they came But this ill successe was shortly better recompensed for he had secret letters sent from Thessalonica to come speedily thither assuring him with a general good liking to open the Gates to him who setting forward with a part of his Army entred the City in a Country man's habit and casting off that simple attire and being known the people with joyful acclamations received him as their Soveraigne yet a few stood on their guard in the Castle which was at length taken The old Emperours chief Captaines now fled most of whose Souldiers went to the young one who came to Serre which was delivered him by composition but the Castle was by Bafilicus Nicephorus whom the old Emperour had made Captaine rather for his fincerity than wit or Capacity strongly fortified in these troubleous times and kept till the old Emperous death then reconciling himself to the young who in reward of his fidelity gave it to him to hold as amply as before from his Grand-father for wise men as did King Philip in Demosthenes honour virtue even in their enemies The young Emperour soon took all strong Townes and Cities in Macedonia unresisted with the Despots wife and Children and tteasure his Nephews and following Senatours wives also after whom their Husbands were most cast in prison and some perishing in exile The old Emperour was about to send to his Nephew for peace but at the same time Michael the Bulgarian in hope of great profit secretly offered him aid whereof he gladly accepting Embassadours were sent to conclude it but two or three trusty Counsellours being acquainted therewith In the mean time he sent out Constantinus Assan against Sydanenus who coupt him up by whom he was over thrown and taken prisoner the rest flying head-long to Constantinople Now the young Emperour returned thither to prevent the Bulgarians coming lest they killing the old Emperour should seize the City themselves or at least keep him out There was also great want of Victuals in the City his Army shutting it up by Land and the Venetians being at Odds with the Genowaies of Pera by Sea The young Emperour at first attempted to enter but being repulsed he gat farther off About this time came also the 3000 Bulgarian horse-men but remembring the harms by forraign aid he suffered but their General and some few Commanders to come into the City The young one least some harm to their utter subversion should betide them offered to do what his Grand-father should command But he trusting to this Bulgarian aid listened little to him and how could he trust him that had so often deceived him Who almost despairing of successe sent great gifts to the General and chief Commanders promising far greater if they would return home whereunto they easily granted Two watch-men Camaris and Castellanus fleeing secretly to the young Emperour offered to betray the City to him for assurance of such money and possessions they required returning again for fear of suspition without stay The Emperour four dayes made shipladders of ropes And the night being come they gave such store of good wine by way of courtesie to their fellow watch-men that they fell into a sound sleep The traytours about mid-night receiving 18 men by the ladders fastned to the top of the wall who breaking open the Roman gate the Army entered The same night just after Sun-set a Country man in hast knocked at the gate of Gerolimna telling the Souldiers he saw many of the young Emperours men marching towards the City by the way of the Roman gate The old Emperour troubled thought to send scouts to see if all were cleart but Metochita his great Counsell our letted saying Seeing either the rumour was false or the endeavour of so few vain it beseemeth not a couragious mind to be so leightly moved Again divers others came running telling the watch-men A great number were at the Roman gate the Emperour more troubled sharply said to Metochita Thou seemest to be strangely Metamorphosed into a man of iron which hast no feeling of our danger c. for the noise of my Nephew soundeth in mine cars c. Neverthelesse he rose to go to bed accounting them but as false alarmes But the Emperour alone say tumbling to and fro on a pallat as ttoubled with heavy thoughts The mean time he hearing a great noise at the Court-gate for above 800 were entred with his Nephew and they of the City joyfully saluted him rose destitute of all but his ordinary waiters beseeching not God to forsake but defend him from their fury Who heard him For the young Emperour straightly charged all his Captaines c. on pain of death not to violate his Grand-father or any about him For said he this victory God hath given us and not our selves c. which peradventure he will give to others who as we have been to them will shew themselves to us wherefore if nighnesse of blood or being of one Country move us not yet let 's use mercy that we feel not Gods hand in like case A Courtier then opened a wicket with this message to him Seeing God hath my son given thee the imperial seat I request thee this good turn for many I bestowed on thee not to spill the blood from which next to God thou hast taken life c. If brothers-blood cryed out against Cain how much lowder shall fathers-blood cry to the Lord c. Have pitty on my miserable old age and a bruised reed cast down and do not again tread on it And be
turn all his Force upon the Christians making wondrous preparations chiefly at Sea so that 't was thought he would either attempt Rhodes or some parts of Italy But while he delighted himself with Gracian Cities solacing in the pleasant Countrey about Hadrianople he was struck with a Canker in his Reins which contemning cure did so by degrees eat up and corrupt his body as that he so honoured before was now loathsome to himself and others As he lay thus languishing leaning his head in the lap of his most loved Bassa Pyrrhus said O Pyrrhus I see I must shortly die without remedy Pyrrhus thereupon discoursing with him of many matters perswaded him to 〈◊〉 the great wealth taken taken from the Persian Merchants in divers places of his Empire upon 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 who rep yed 〈◊〉 thou I should bestow others goods wrongfully taken away on works of Charity for my own vain prayses I will never do it 〈◊〉 see rather they be restored to the right owners which was forthwith done To the shame of many Christians who make of Robbery a sacrifice not minding restitution He 〈◊〉 above ground in his Tent on his way to Hadrianople sent 〈◊〉 and Achmetes 〈◊〉 before to provide for solemnizing their great Feast Bairam as it were their Easter keeping with him only Ferhates Bassa to come after as his weak body would permit but such was his Disease fury and intolerable pains that he soon after died in September in 1520. 〈◊〉 Chiurli in the very place where he had assailed his aged Father Bajazet aged 46 years reigning 8 To the great joy of all Christendom His dead body being solemnly buried by his Son Solyman in a Temple he built at Constantinople for that purpose He used to say Nothing was sweeter than to reign without fear or suspition of his 〈◊〉 and commending Solyman to Pyrrhus charged him to leave the Persians and turn wholly against the Christians and to incense him left his lively Counterfeit by his beds-side with sundry bloody Precepts The Life of Solyman the Magnificent fourth Emperour of Turks FErhates Bassa carefully concealing Selimus's death lest the Janizaries and Court Souldiers should in the vacancy spoil the Merchants and strangers and afterwards as wont insolently prescribe to the chief Bassaes at pleasure sent letters in Post to Solyman then at Magnesia of his Father's death and to hasten to Constantinople while things were in good order timely to repress the feared disorders of his Men of Warre He perusing the Letters to his great content yet considering his Fathers cruelty who on a jealousie of his aspiring minde and for some words in dislike of his Fathers extremity had sent him a poysoned shirt whose misdoubting Mother 〈◊〉 one of his Chamber first to wear it whereof he soon died and that the newes was not seconded from any other Bassa fearing some plot durst not adventure from his charge giving little or no credit to the Messenger Ferhates hearing of his wariness ten dayes being past sent to Pyrrhus and Mustapha at Hadrianople speedily to repair to Court to whom when come he declared Selimus's death who all speedily and secretly sent to Solyman Letters thereof with their Hands and Seals who now assured by long journies came to Scrutarium of old Chrysopolic where the Aga of the Janizaries meeting him he was 〈◊〉 over the passage to Constantinople where the Janizaries knowing yet nothing till Solyman were ready to receive him in the midst the Captains said aloud Behold your Emperour who cryed with great acclamation Long live the great Emperour Solyman which concent is the greatest assurancè of their Estate So being tryumphantly brought into the Palace he was placed in his Father's Seat in 1520. Charls 5th being chose Em perour of Germany that year The Janizaries in lieu of the spoil received a great largess of Solyman he somewhat also increasing their wages to their wondrous 〈◊〉 Solyman beginning to reign about 28 years old the Princes to whom Selimus's name was dreadful hoped a quiet Lamb was come in place of a raging Lion but they were soon deceived therein chiefly the bordering Christian Princes upon whom he converted his forces most of his long reign which Selimus almost wholly employed against the Persian and Egyptian Kings Gazelles as if now discharged of his Oath to Selimus and earnestly desiring to restore the Mamaluke's Kingdom gathered speedily to him the dispersed remnant of the Mamalukes and by rewards the wild Arabian leaders with great numbers of the discontented Syrians driving the Turk's Garrisons out of Birtha Tripolis and other Syrian Cities and possessing them He sent also Embassadors to Cayerbeius perswading him to revenge the wrong done to the Mamalukes and by killing the Turk's Garrisons to make himself Sultan of Aegypt offering therein his utmost service But he whether not trusting Gazelles or ashamed of new 〈◊〉 or 〈◊〉 his own strength presently in his sight caused them to be executed as traitors speedily certifying Soliman hereof who sent Ferhates with a strong Army into Syria Gazelles retired with all his Army into strong Damasce whither Ferhates coming Gazelles rather than to be shut up valiantly issued forth with all his power and gave him battel for six houres most cruel and many 〈◊〉 on both sides At last being oppressed with his enemies eight to one in number he was forced to fight in a ring valiantly dying with his Mamalukes in midst of his enemies who had a bloudy Victory Gazelles thus slain all Syria presently yielded to the Turks Ferhates taking it in good part suffered not his men to enter Damasco then richly stored with all sorts of Commodities from divers parts Ferhates going to Cairo commending Cayerbeius confirmed him in his Government and inveighing against Selimus his cruelty to please the Aegyptians bid them hope for happiness under peaceable Solyman to whom he returned all things being set in order Next year by Pyrrhus's counsel the Christians mortal enemy and the Janizaries 〈◊〉 Solyman resolved to besiege strong Belgrade on Hungaries borders vainly attempted by Mahomet the great and Amurath to their great losse and dishonour where the Turk's Ensigns were taken with other of Huniades and Mathias's Trophies of Victory were reserved to their grief His Army sent before was come to Sophia in Servia the European Lievetenant's residence before the Hungarians were aware for they living at ease all Uladislaus's time and now secure under young Lodovicus his Sonne of no experience who being poled by his Nobles and great Clergy could not raise sufficient power against such an enemy especially his Nobility promising much but performing nothing so that Solyman coming without lett before the City by battery and undermining soon became Lord thereof and with little losse It was won Aug. 29. 1521. The miseries ensuing upon the opening of that gap did and do declare how much that losse concerned the Christian Common-wealth Solyman returning to Constantinople breaking up his Army lay still almost a year greatly preparing at Calipolis
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
fleet at Ascalon for Jerusalem's relief sunk their Ships and marched to the Camp among whom were divers Engineers by whom a great moving Tower was made covered with raw hides to save it from fire which by night being brought to the wall they the next day the winde driving the Turks fire who thought to burn it into their own faces gained the top of the wall which being first footed by Godfrey and his Brother they pressed in like a violent River killing men women and children with a lamentable sight The better sort of Turks retiring into the Temple fought terribly many on both sides falling but the Christians fiercely breaking in the foremost were miserably slain the Turks also 〈◊〉 fighting in the midst of the Temple there were slain heapes both of victors and vanquished the pavement swimming with blood Then the Turks held the top of the Temple And the next day upon Proclamation of mercy to such as laid down weapons they yielded themselves Thus Jerusalem was recovered in 1099 having been in the Infidels hands above 400 years Eight daies after cleansing the City and giving thanks to God and the poor Christians welcomming with joy their victorious Brethren the Princes consulting of their King chose Robert Duke of Normandy who refusing Jerusalem upon news of his Fathers death in England William Rufus being in possession as it were lost both Kingdomes Godfrey of Bulloine a great Souldier being saluted King who said He would not wear a Crown of Gold where Christ wore a Crown of thorns but briefly certified these proceedings to Bohemud shewing Jerusalem's strength and situation and how he first gained part of the wall Baldwin opening the gates for entry of their great conflict in Solomon's Temple and that since he was saluted King of Jerusalem though against his will he would endeavour well to deserve of the universal faith And then joyned a most dreadful battle with the greatest multitude of Turks and Saracens all as one assembled at Ascalon for revenge killing a 100000 of them taking more spoile than in this whole expedition After this Victory some Princes returned to their Charges others with honour to their own Country But shortly after a great Pestilence ensuing Godfrey among the rest died July 18. 1100. Scarce reigning a full year generally lamented and honourably buried on mount Calvary in the Temple of Christ's Sepulchre In whose Room Baldwin of Edessa his brother was Crowned King in 1101. Who aided by Sea and Land took the Sea-City Cesarea-Stratonis overthrowing certain Companies at 〈◊〉 gladly and safely conducting to Jerusalem new westerne aides by Tyre and three other Cities holden by the enemies at which time the Christians were notably overthrown about Rama by the Turks aided by the Arabians and Aegyptians two Stephens Earles of Charters and Burgundy being slain the King hardly escaping who repairing his Army at Joppa speedily so overthrew his secure enemies that they had little cause to rejoyce in their Victory Tancred Prince of Galilee in the mean time taking the City Apamea and with much toyl Laodicea But Baldwin 〈◊〉 Governour of Edessa was at the siege of Carras thatwas upon yielding overthrown by the Persian Sultan Benedict a Bishop and 〈◊〉 his kinsman being taken with him who to the offence of the 2 Sultans after 5 years redeemed themselves from the Turk that took them King Baldwin who after this lived unmolested for a season suddenly raised a full strength and besieged Ptolemais or Acon in Phoenicia and was glad to raise his siege being after a long time brought to his end by a healed-up wound received in a skirmish at his return yet the next year Ptolemais by the encouragement of the Genua fleet was yielded to him on composition after 20 daies Tancred Livetenant Governour of Antioch soon after put to flight the invading Governour of Aleppo and others and the Caliph of Egypt was discomfited by the Christians at land and by tempest at Sea comming against Jerusalem Bohemud returning out of Italy with 40000 foot and 5000 horse as is reported toward Jerusalem spoiled in revenge of Alexius his injuries the Country about Dyrrhachium forcing the Emperour to promise by oath security and kindnesse to all travelling Souldiers and dying shortly at Antioch in 1108. Whose Principality his child Bohemud enjoyed under Tancreds 〈◊〉 Baldwin the King Apr. 23. 1111. wonn the City Berytus 〈◊〉 most to the sword and the same year Decemb. 19. Sidon was yielded to him through the assistance of a Norway fleet Tyre only of all the famous Sea-Cities from Laodicea to Ascalon remaining to the enemies the which Baldwin hardly besieged 4 months in vain Two years after Baldwin and Tancred who Bohemud dying Reigned in Antioch with the rest joyned a cruel battle with the Persian Sultans mighty Army under Mendus their General encamping on the Sea near Tyberias after some companies were by some flying skirmishers entrapped in ambush and rescued by other Christians who were by the Turks far exceeding in number put to flight and hardly followed with great slaughter The Ascalon Turks the mean while besieging Jerusalem weakly manned but news of the Kings coming and of Supplies out of the west made them having burnt store-houses of Corn and spoyled other things to retire home This King after many hard conflicts with Turks and Saracens won Pharamia a strong Sea City in Aegypt taking abundance of fish at the mouth of Nilus wherewith he feasted in the City And after dinner grieved with his old wound died near Laris in his return in 1118 Reigning 18 years and royally Sepulchred near his brother Godfrey Baldwin Brugensis of Edessa his Cousin was chosen and Crowned King of Jerusalem Apr. 2. 1118. a man of great courage tall stature and comely countenance Against whom the Caliph of Aegypt with the King of Aleppo raised a great power the same summer Baldwin also encamping in fight of his enemies both armies for fear of each other after 3 months facing retired without any notable action Alexius the Emperour died this year whose Son Calo Johannes his successour all his Reign worthily defended his territories in lesser Asia But Roger Prince of Antioch with more courage than discretion going forth against a great Army not far from Aleppo was slain with most of his Army the place being called the field of bloud Baldwin Aug. 14 1120 overthrowing the carelesse Turks with a great slaughter joyning Antioch principality to his own which Antiochians Baldwin their protecting Prince being far off were more subject to enemies inroads than before the King of Damasco entring with great power and doing harm thereabouts in 1122 who understanding Baldwins approach with a puissant Army retired out of the Countrey the King taking Garaze a new built strong Castle of the King of Damasco's which he raced to the ground Whilst this King wisely sent Embassadours to divers Christian Princes especially to the Uenetians for relief by Sea Balac the Persian Sultan with a great Army invaded about him
Antioch with whom without longer stay for his friends aid he joyned battel and was with certain of the best Commanders carried captive unto Carras most of his Army being overthrown Hereupon the Caliph of Aegypt the Saracen for Aegypt with Tuneis and Moroccoes Kingdoms were yet in their possession invading Jerusalems Kingdom landed an Army at Joppa besieging it also by Sea with 700 sail Against which while they lay in hope the Duke of Venice stirred up by the Pope for the Christians relief came from Cyprus thither in hast with 200 sail and either before the Saracens could make ready or after a doubtful battel obtained a glorious victory going by land to Jerusalem where he was honorably received by the Patriarch c. Eustace also the Vice-King overthrowing them at Ascalon After Joppa's relief the Saracens discomfiture and the Christians encouragment they besieged Tyre by Sea and Land March 1. whose sharpe assault the Turks valiantly repulsed yet after 4 months June 29 1124 it was yielded on composition of which a third part was given to the Venetians according to a former agreement Baldwin after 18 months imprisonment being shortly ransomed for 100000 Ducats But the Duke of Venice returning home took Chios 〈◊〉 and three more Islands with the City of Modon 〈◊〉 Peloponnesus from the Emperour who as Alexius his Father envying the Christians success had in the Dukes absence infested his Territories King Baldwin also invaded and spoyled the King of Damasco's Country overthrowing him in three battels taking great prey as also the invading Saracens at Ascalon whereby for a time he lived in peace who with others joyning with Hugh Paganus the first Master of the Templars returning with a great number of Christians out of the West and besieging Damasco through the Cities strength the Defendants valour and the 〈◊〉 contagion raised their siege King Baldwin also now sent to Fulk Count of Turine c. who was 60 years old and making preparations for the holy Land offering him his eldest daughter Melisinda with the Kingdoms succession for a dowry whereof he accepted And about 3 years after feeling death draw on removing into the Patriarchs house he in the presence of divers great Ones commended to his Sonne in Law and Daughter with their Son Baldwin two years old the Government presently after Aug. 22. 1131 dying and solemnly buried with Godfrey and Baldwin Fulk was Sept. 16. Crowned by the Patriarch the beginning of whose reign was by Pontius of Tripolis and Hugh of Joppa that joyned with the Ascalonian Saracens vext with domestick discord 〈◊〉 hurtful to the Christian State which by force and others mediation was well appeased and yet vengeance followed the Traytors The Turks also invaded about Antioch aud were overthrown But John the Greek Emperour with a puissant Army took Tarsus with Cilicia's whole Province besieging Antioch pretending it belonged to his Empire who after Christian Princes mediation agreed that Raymond Count of Poictou to whom the dukedom of Antioch was given with the Dukes daughter should hold it from him as his Soveraign and so returned Fulk about that time coming to relieve Monteferrant-Castle was by Sanguin the Turk overthrown betaking him into the Castle which now he hardlier befieged pinching them within by famine unto whose relief the Kingdoms whole power coming the Turk upon deliverance of the Castle to him set all at liberty John the Emperour about 4 years after came to Antioch having longed also for Jerusalems Kingdom who not being suffered to enter but upon an oath and few followers with quiet departure in revenge pretending the Armies want of victuals made havock of the Suburbs cutting down the fruit-trees to dresse their meat And wintring in Cilicia at hunting of a Boar had his hand lightly wounded by a poisoned arrow in his quiver wherewith his arm swelling more and more must be cut off which he abhorred saying The Greek Empire was not to be governed with one hand died Emmanuel the youngest Son his two eldest being dead succeeding him King Fulk also now at peace walking with his Queen out of Ptolemais following amongst other 〈◊〉 a Hare put up by running boys fell in the course with his head under the Horse with whose weight and the 〈◊〉 hardness the brains came out at the nose and ears of his crushed head who died Novemb. 13. 1142 lying 3 days speechless and was magnificently buried by the other Kings with a general lamentation The elder of whose 2 Sons Baldwin about 13 years 〈◊〉 with his mother were solemnly on Christmas-day crowned in 1142 about which time Sanguin the bloody Turk took by undermining Edessa in Joscelin's absence exercising all cruelty on the Christians the territory of 3 Archbisho-pricks being drawn from Antioch hereby which Turk was stabbed in his drunkenness at the siege of Cologenbar Noradine his Son succeeding him Who after Baldwin 3 had in his first year recovered and fortified Sorbal Castle beyond Jordan so beset him in his return the next year going against the King of Damasco that he miraculously escaped Edessa's losse with the Christians miseries through the stirring up of Eugenius Bishop of Rome greatly moved the Western Princes to prepare almost in every Province for their relief Conrade Emperour of Germany raysing a puissant Army set forward who having before certified Emanuel the Greek Emperour of his purpose craving passage with victuals and all necessaries for his mony he seemed willingly to condiscend though inwardly pining thereat for strong companies of the Greeks following the Army to keep the Souldiers from stragling now and then cut them off roaming at advantage And the farther they travelled the more the Greeks discontented countenances appeared yet they went on to Philippolis from whence departing the Greeks and Armies rear had not the wiser sort duly appeased them had plainly fought Then from Adrianople they came to the Plain Cherobachi where the River Melas that suddenly in Winter or great fall of water overfloweth its banks like a Sea through abundance of rain so by night overflowed the encamped Army that 〈◊〉 with burdens besides weapons c. and also great numbers of armed men were with lamentable out-cties carried away and perished like hay or chaffe every one glad to shift for himself the beholders saying The wrath of God was broke into the Camp Neverthelesse the water being fallen the sore troubled Emperour marched to Constantinople Who by armed men glistring on the Walls was not suffered to enter but perswaded by the Emperour to transport his Army over the straite promising to supply his wants the Greeks sparing no labour or vessel in that so hasty service Who being shipped over the Countrey people by his appointment brought nothing as before to sell them the Towns at an extream rate first receiving their mony by ropes from the Walls delivered them what they pleased and oft-times nothing vildely mingling Lime with their Meal of which many Souldiers died but if the Emperour were not privy thereunto yet he coined
counterfeit mony to deceive them practising all kind of mischeif to terrifie their posterity from the like expedition and secretly plotting with the Turks how they might be defeated some part thereby being overthrown near Bathis although in Phrygia themselves were greatly slaughtered by the part marching thorough Phrygia which Turks with a great Army to stay the Armies passage at the River Meander and they having neither bridg nor boat to passe over declared it their patience that the Greeks as they passed by were not become their prey Conrade retired his Souldiers out of the shot of the Turks Archers standing on the other banks-side for refreshment arising before day and putting his whole Army in Battalion Both Armies thus in readiness the winding River only betwixt them the Emperour encouraged his men with a Speech to this purpose That we are exposed to dangers pining with hunger c. for Christ's sake and the glory of God But these Barbarians divided from us by this River are the enemie of Christ's Crosse in whose bloud we have vowed to wash our selves calling to remembrance the grievous things and tortures inflicted on our friends and Countrey-men by these uncircumcised let not any terrour daunt us Let them know that we are superiour to them as our Master excells their Prophet and seducer Let us fight in Christ's name with assured hope of an easie victory We are those mighty men standing about the divine Sepulchre as about Solomon's bed let us remove these Agarens as stones of offence Children of the bond-woman I my self will shew you the way over this River I know the water beaten back by our force will as Jordan in ancient times be at a stand This attempt shall to our immortall praise be spoken of in all posterity This said after a signal of battel and devout prayer by every man Conrade first put spurs to his horse the rest closely following with a terrible out-cry passed all over with lesse trouble than was feared the horses even beating back the water towards the fountain then after small resistance the discouraged Turks fled whom the Christians like Lyons pursuing the fields were covered with dead bodies huge heaps of bones long after declaring the fallen multitude to the wonder of travellers many Italians being wounded but few or none slain After this they hardly besieged Iconium in lesser Asia but the Cities strength the valour of the Defendants and the peoples numberlesse dying in the Camp of which the Greeks mingling Lime with the Meal was the chief cause caused the Emperour to raise his long siege and return into his Countrey most referring this his journey into Asia to the year 1146. By this 〈◊〉 so fortunate expedition Baldwin the mean time fortified ruinous Gaza of the Philistins serving as a Bulwark against Egypt and to distresse Ascalon which strong Sea City he besieging by Sea and Land when Noradine was repulsed by the Citizens of 〈◊〉 whom he besieged and the Caliph of Egypt's fleet from Ascalon's relief was with great losse repulsed the Wall 's breach that he had made repaired and the dead Christians hanged in ropes over the Walls at which the Commanders moved returned to the assault and the besieged discouraged with great slaughter yielded the City with its spoyl to the Souldiers departing only with their lives the enemy having now no place in those parts Lewis the eighth of France with other great Princes at or about this Emperours time took on him the like expedition with a puissant Army who landing in Asia found nothing answerable to the feigned courtefie of Emanuel at Constantinople great numbers of Souldiers perishing in desolate Countries by false guides and many straying cut off by the Greeks themselves yet he besieged Noradin's Royal Seat the besieged being brought to extremity and at the point even to yield But some Christian Princes there grudging at the Kings promise of that Cities Government if won to Philip Earl of Flanders a stranger corrupted also as some say with the Turks gold persivaded the King to remove to a stronger part of the City than where he lay from whence after a while for lack of victuals he departed returning into France detesting Emmanuel the Emperours name by whose dealing such an expedition was brought to nought Noradine for some injuries done to the Turks and Arabians dwelling in the Forrest of Libanus straightly besieged Paneda the multitude of Turks after the Christians desperate fally hardly pursuing and entring the City put all to the sword in their way yet most of the Citizens stood upon their guard in the Castle Noradine after spoyl taken and firing the City departed upon Baldwin's coming for relief waiting in the Woods to take the Christians at advantage and set suddenly on the King passing over Jordan accompanied only with his Horsemen and doubting no such thing most of his Nobles were slain or taken himself with a few hardly escaping to Saphet Noradine after this besieged it again whose Walls were again repaired in good hope but though he had made breaches in the Walls rose with his Army upon Baldwins the Prince of Autioch and the Count Tripolis approach This among other hard conflicts of this young King is worth remembrance That he put Noradine to flight loosing most of his Army who besieged the Castle Sueta belonging to his Kingdom and marrying the Greek Emperours Neece he again required one of his kinswomen in marriage and preferring Raymund's Daughter of Antioch before Matilde the Count of Tripolis his Sister the said Count grievously by Sea infested his frontiers While the marriage was solemnized Baldwin abiding at Antioch and fortifying a Castle on Orontes took Physick of Barac a Jew the Count's Physician of Tripolis whereby he was verily supposed to be poysoned and languishing in pain with the Bloudy-flux and Consumption he died at Beritum Febr. 13. 1163. reignning 21 years being solemnly enterred by his Father with a general mourning Noradine himself refusing to invade his Kingdom at his funerals solemnity saying The Christians had lost such a King as the like was hardly to be found To return to the Turks proceedings in lesser Asia 〈◊〉 Sultan Solyman's death Mahumet succeeded him betwixt whom and Masut Sultan of Iconium arose great discord which broke out into open war Comnen the Emperour aiding Masut But the 2 Infidels soon becoming friends joyned and overthrew the Emperour besieging Iconium he hardly 〈◊〉 Masut dying divided the whole Turks Kingdome gotten by him between his 3 sons to 〈◊〉 the eldest he gave Iconium with the Provinces belonging unto Jagupasan Amasia and Ancyra with fruirful Cappadocia and the places adjoyning to Dadune Cesarea and Sebastia with the large Countries thereabouts These brethren soon fell at discord the Sultan and Jagupasan seeking openly each others destruction Emmanuel the Emperour rejoycing thereat aided Jagupasan whereby he obtained many notable victories against the Sultan who weary of the quarrel personally met the Emperour comming out of Syria and accompanyed him to
for some that could not go over on foot were in heart with him others taking part with neither commanded all the Emperour's Galleys to be strongly put to Sea to hinder Andronicus passage over Propontis and Bosphorus Contostephanus challenging the Generalship over this Fleet as his due unto whom he was without dispute glad to commit the charge thereof Then he sent one George Xiphiline as from the Emperour with Letters and instructions to Andronicus commanding him forthwith to return in peace promising him the Emperor's favour with many honours c. otherwise it might turn to his destruction Xiphiline as it is reported secretly advised Andronicus to proceed in his purpose wherewith encouraged he willed the Messenger to tell them that proud Alexius should be first displaced and called to an account that the Empresse should be shut up as a 〈◊〉 to learn amendment of life and that the Emperour should take the Government on himself not be overtopt by others c. Contostephanus few daies after carried all the Galleys to Andronicus casting Alexius into the bottom of despair Andronicus his friends openly flocked together and some scossing at Alexius passed the Strait to him returning home 〈◊〉 and joyfull filling the City with his praises After that John and Manuell sons of Andronicus were set at liberty and others laid fast in their rooms Alexius himself with all his faction were committed to the guard But Alexius by a wonderful change was about midnight conveigned to the Patriarch's house and kept with a strong guard complaining of nothing more than his keepers not suffering him to sleep whose misery the Patriarch undeservedly pitying perswaded him not to provoke his keepers by speeches to use him evilly Within few daies he was brought on a little jade with a ragged 〈◊〉 on the top of a reed in derision to the Sea-side and so to Andronicus whose eys were for his evil Government by a general consent put out Theodosius the Patriarch approaching the last of Nobles that came to Andronicus he fell down at his horses feet and rising kissed his foot calling him the Emperour's Saviour the defender of truth comparing him with John Chrysostom c. But the Pataiarch marking his stern countenance subtil nature c. quippingly said Hitherto I have heard but now I have also seen and plainly known adjoyning with a deep sigh that saying As we have heard so have we seen remembring also Emmanuel's words wherewith he had lively represented Andronicus never seen before many times to his view Andronicus all things in the City being to his mind departing from Damalum crossed the strait oftentimes singing that saying Return my soul to thy rest c. Coming to the Emperour's Countrey-house near Philopatium he most humbly prostrated himself before the Emperour with deceitful tears kissing his feet saluting his mother Xene as it were but for fashion sake staying a good while with the Emperour he desired to go to Constantinople to see his Cosen Emmanuel's grave where coming he wept bitterly and roared as it were out divers ignorant standers by saying Oh what a wonderful thing is this c. He would not be removed by his kinsman pulling him from the Tomb and secretly said something as if he had prayed some saying it was a charm Others and more truly that he triumphed over the dead Emperour with these or the like words I have thee now fast my cruel persecutor c. And now I will be revenged of thy posterity and satisfie my self as a Lion with a fat prey c. He afterwards disposing of all matters at his pleasure allowed the Emperor hunting and other delights watching him by Keepers that none should talk of any important matter with him He took all the Government to himself to drive away the contrary faction that had born sway The state of that time by his rewarding bountifully the Souldiers that helped him bestowing Offices on his children or other favourites shortly driving divers Nobles to exile depriving some of their sight casting others into prison for something or other that grieved him began to be most miserable Some accusing their nearest kinsmen for deriding Andronicus his proceedings or that without regard of him they more favoured the Emperour Yea many accusing charging others with treason were themselves charged by the accused and both clapt up together You might have seen not only his enemies but some of his best friends the same day to be crowned and beheaded graced and disgraced the wiser deeming his praises bounty and kindnesse the beginning of a mans disgrace undoing and death Emmanuel's daughter who above all others wished for his coming was first cunningly poysoned by Pterigionites a corrupted Eunuch her husband supposed also to be poysoned with the same cup. He made as if he would depart if the fair Empress Xene were not removed from her Son the incensed vulgar people flocking unto and ready to tear the Patriarch out of his cloaths if he consented not thereunto So in a Councel of his favourites she was after many false things accused of treason as to solicite Bela King of Hungary her Brother in Law by Letters to invade Branisoba and Belligrade belonging to the Empire for which she was condemned and cast into a most filthy prison Four of this Counsel being asked their opinion of her said They would know whether it was called by the Emperours consent Whereupon Andronicus in great rage starting up 〈◊〉 Lay hands on them his guard shaking their weapons at them and the people catching and pulling them were so fierce that they had much ado to escape with life The Empress now hourly expected the deadly blow Andronicus demanding of the assembled former Councel What punishment there was for betrayers of any Town or Province The answer being in writing that it was death he brake out in choller as if she had done it By and by a writing was subscribed by the Emperour labhor to write it unworthily condemning his Mother to dye Manuel his eldest son and George Augustus his kinsman saying plainly They would not see her innocent body dismembred never consenting to her death At which troubled Andronicus plucking himself by the hoary beard c. sighed at his own most miserable tyrannical estate c. Yet few daies after he commanded her to be strangled by Pterigionites and another which was done accordingly her lately adorned body was secretly raked up in the sand by the Sea-side Andronicus all being covered under pretence of common good and safety to manifest his loyalty to his cosen the Emperour perswaded the Nobility to have him solemnly Crowned who for his tender age was not yet his own shoulders at the time supporting him to and from the great Church with Crocodiles tears as if it had been for joy many accounting the young Emperour thrice happy in him So cunningly under pietie's vail shaddowed he his most execrable treachery For having got into his power both Emperour and Empire he called a Councel
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
as the famine should enforce out still expecting when the besieged through necessity should yield When they had lyen above a year at siege certain Souldiers in a bravery adventured to mount the Wall and finding no resistance they stood still hearkening but seeing that dumb silence continued they returned informing the Captains of the matter who thinking it some policy of the enemy afterward caused some Companies to scale a Bulwark in such sort as if they had gone against a puissant enemy who took it without resistance and cut in pieces in their further entry a small company very weak and feeble with famine and infection of air after some small resistance The gates being set open the Christians were let in with displayed Ensigns but at the entry were artainted with a most grievous stink they saw the streets covered with dead bodies others drawing towards their end Of 70000 persons were not found above 3000 alive and those the most part young children which maigred and poor ones had their lives granted them to cleanse the City and bury the dead being three moneths in doing it Damiata was taken Nov. 5. 1221. The spoil was great with store of Gold Silver and precitious Stones The Christians as in a Colony forgetting their Countrey stayed there above a year after The City Pelagius by vertue of his Legation adjudged to belong to the See of Rome at which the King and Armies General to whom all places taken was agreed to be given withdrew himself discontented yet dissemblingly to Ptolemais Pelagius weary to see nothing doing the year following commanded every man to take Arms and prosecute the war with besieging of Cairs yet the Souldiers cryed out with one voice They would be commanded by none but the King of Jerusalem The Legat was enforced to send and request the King to take on 〈◊〉 the mannaging of that war who by particular affairs 〈◊〉 his own indisposure excusing himself at length through the requests of the other Princes at the time when the 〈◊〉 Duke after 10 months absence arrived out of his Countrey with a brave Company returned to Damiata whom with others the Legat requested and urged speedily to take the field telling them the holy wars enterprize was grown old and cold by these delays c. That it was for the invaded or assailed on whose lives their Countrey Wives c. depended to prolong time and to delude and dally off the enemy till having weakened his forces he should lose his hope Caire he said was a great City yet the greatest Cities had by puissant and speedy enemies become desarts and that great Empires ought not to be assailed by forreign force if they were not at first overthrown or weakened as not to recover themselves c. That Aegypt ought not to have been attempted or not to be given over before conquest The King of Jerusalem whether grieved that Damiata could not be given him or having proved that higher Aegypt was not to be attempted without great danger said he would not go in any case the war being undertaken for recovery of the holy Land and that after Memphis Babylon or 〈◊〉 were taken they could not be kept long by force whereas Syria was in right their own And though he commended whatever forwardness c. Pelagius commended yet he ought to employ the same in Syria and not where no need was or profit to be exspected The Legat wedded to his opinion commanded him and the rest to get in the field against the Sultan threatning the sentence of excommunication against the backward or unwilling So as enforced they set forward in August the hottest season The Sultan as afraid of 70000 retired farther off at which the unexpert Legat rejoycing said That fortune favoured the valiant and to cowards all fell out to the worst The Christians seizing on a bridge made over Nile cut the Keepers thereof to pieces Drawing nigh Caire and encamping in its sight they ran up and down provoking them of the City to come out to battel c. who let them alone to brag and boast and purposely protracted long the siege and the Christians having confidence in their valour with little regard of their enemies not considering they were within the Trenches c. of a deceitful River took no care of duty watch c. So the crafty enemies abusing them with delays and deceits drew them out at length that they might circumvent them when they least feared it The Christians encamped under the covert of the Banks and Causies of that fenny Country thinking themselves safe But these places were soft and durty the people at pleasure watring them by channels and sluces out of Nile which opened the River began to overflow all Then they too late perceived themselves taken as in a gin all the ground being covered with water that the victuals were corrupted and no place for a man to lye dry in The Aegyptians had taken the high places that the Christians should not retire out of the covered Boggs and Marshes so their rash valour was exposed to the enemies shot and fury Then all began to cry out and rail c. against Pelagius the King they blamed 〈◊〉 who was against his liking drawn into this war c. After 3 daies thus coupt up with waters the poor Souldiers fell down dead in the water for want of food and sleep no help but to accept of the proud enemies conditions who most desiring his Countries liberty required Damiata to be restored and all things as before the besieging thereof and so the Christians to depart his Countrey These hard conditions were by the distressed Christians accepted of but when they were propounded to them of Damiata a great contention arose some said they would not surrender the Town a stay for all Christian affairs in the East but being restored carried away all their hope with it and therefore 't were better endure all extremities than receive so hurtful a Peace Others said they ought to have compassion of so many thousand distressed souls not to expose them to butchery Towns consisting of men and not men of enclosures These seeing the others obstinate presently by force entred their houses and took away their weapons to constrain them to yield When they before Caire almost drowned understood of this dissention they sent word If they would not yield Damiata to the Sultan they would forthwith send to Ptolemais which would not 〈◊〉 to have it surrendred instead to the Aegyptians So was Damiata again yielded to the Infidels Meledin the Sultan did neither by word or deed despight or reproach them but relieved them with victuals and other things wanting conducting them safely by guides out of the Countrey Likewise Coradin his brother made a truce with them for 8 years whereupon the King went into Italy and by the Popes perswasion gave his daughter Yoland in marriage to Frederick Latin Emperour she being Crowned Queen of Jerusalem in her dead 〈◊〉 right to stir
But the Turks oppressed with multitudes still landing fled into the Town leaving their Governour with 500 dead on the shoar This rich and populous City had since the sormer taking been strongly fortifyed by the Turks with deep ditches high walls c. and 〈◊〉 with all things for a long siege Yet the Souldiers and Citizens remembring the miseries endured in the former siege the night following fled over the River by a bridge made of Boats and brake it lest they should be followed having first fired their houses The Christians entring the City did what they could to quench the fire and afterwards found abundance of riches with store of victuals This happened about the beginning of Octob in 1249. Meledine herewith discouraged offered the King for peace and the redeeming thereof more in 〈◊〉 and Syria then they had before a long time which was by the French proudly rejected and Alexandria the Metropolis further demanded Meledine not much beloved now died in whose stead Melechsala couragious welbeloved even then returning from craving aid of the Mahometan Princes was chosen which Princes though not according among themselvs or with the Aegytian yet in this common danger of Superstition joyned sending him great aid Who being strengthned hotly skirmished with the Christians not far from Damiata wherein he retired with some losse But the Christians sallying out the next day fled to the Camp with ten times more losse Whereby the Sultan encouraged hoped for better success stopping that without great peril no victuals could be brought to City or Camp so that victuals began to grow scarce whereof he was informed by fugitives that fled for want It fortuned that the Governour of Caire not ill affected to the Christian Religion and highly offended with the Sultan for his Brothers wrongfull death secretly perswaded the King to come thither with his Army promising to deliver it to him with instructions what to do Whereupon he assembled what forces he could make sending also for the Earl of Salisbury who with the English was gone to Ptolemais for indignities offered him by Artoys the King's brother purposing to serve no more But with promise of better usage and recompence for wrongs he returned into Egypt And more strengthened by new supplies from France leaving a convenient Garrison in Damiata set forward towards Caire Wherefore the Sultan offered to restore him all 〈◊〉 with a great summe of money and all prisoners so he would redeliver Damiata and joyn in League with him Which offer through others perswasion he refused The King was to passe an Arme of Nilus but being conducted by a fugitive Saracen to a foord he 〈◊〉 Robert of Artoys his brother with a 3d part before accompanied with the Masters of the Templars and Earle of Sarisbury Who assailing the Turks in their tents in the Sultans absence put them to flight Artois above measure encouraged would needs on forwards whom the antient Templars acquainted with that Nations deceitful manners and considering their own strength better then he perswaded him not further to prosecute the enemie till the rest of the Armies coming To whom he in despight replied he would prosecute c. calling them cowards objecting to them the common fame that the holy Land might long since have been united to the Christians Common-wealth but for the false collusion of the Templars and 〈◊〉 with the Infidels The Master moved answered he should when he would and where he durst display his Ensignes c. Sarisbury also perswaded Robert to listen to the wholesome Counsel of the Templars being experienced men beginning also to pacifie the Master with gentle words Whom whilst speaking Robert called Dastard wishing the Army rid of him and the fearful Cowards his Country men Who answered well General on my foot shall be as far as yours and I believe we go where you shall not dare to come nigh my Horses tail He said so because the French had in disdain often called him and his English Tailes The Earle not to be perswaded first assaulted a little place called Mansor who was about to retire having lost a number of his men The Sultan suddenly came on with his whole power and with his multitude enclosed the long wished-for divided Christian Army in which great fight though they worthily behaved themselves yet being a small number they were slain down right Then the too late repenting Earle cried out to Sarisbury valiantly fighting to fly c. who answered God forbid my Fathers son should run from the face of a Saracen The French Earle swiftly fleeing and taking the River Thasues overladed with armour was drowned Sarisbury with his own hand slew many that day till his Horse being slain and he so wounded in the legs that he could not stand yet desperately laid about him on his knees and was there slain scarce more than 2 Templars 1 Hospitaller and 1 Common Souldier escaped alive Sicknesse also increasing in the Camp the King sent many sick people to 〈◊〉 down 〈◊〉 purposing to march to Caire whom the Sultan by meeting them with boats carried in Carts burnt and drowned all except one English man who wound 〈◊〉 5 places escaped reporting it to the rest The Sultan 〈◊〉 now intelligence of the Governour to betray Cair suddenly apprehended him till better leisure the King had all his hope of the City hereby cut off who now would gladly accept of the refused conditions which the Sultan would not hear of but sent in derision to know what was become of all his mattocks forks c. which he brought with him why like an ill husband he suffered them to rot and rust by him The King would fain have retired to Damiata but the Sultan got betwixt him and home so that he must fight it out or yield Who being before often intreated by his Nobles for safety of his person to conveigh himself by water to Damiata would never be perswaded saying He was resolved to endure with his people whatever God should lay upon him So passing the foord afore-mentioned coming where his Brother's battle was fought he might see the mangled Christians the Sultan having proclaimed great reward to whomsoever brought him a Christians head or hand Long he staied not there but the Sultan appeared with a most huge Army against whom the French men for 3 hours made great resistance But one being against ten and the Army fainting for sicknesse and food they were at last all except a few saved in hope of great ransome slain The King with two Brothers was taken also who to the Sultan demanding why he warred against him answered 't was for Religion and the defence of his God's name This was fought Apr. 5. 1250. most of the French Nobility being slain The Sultan presently sent a like number of his souldiers with French attire and Ensignes to Damiata where the Duke of Burgundy French Queen and the Pop's Legate lay but they were by them of the City discovered and so kept out
pillar before the Apostles Temple in perpetual remembrance of him which overthrown by an earthquake was restored by his Son This great City sometime the Worlds beauty by the strange mutations was wonderfully defaced c. for its beauty when the Latins took it was most defaced by fire who while they had it ceased not to destroy some part or other as if they had known they should not long keep it neither did this last fire a little deform it wherefore his chief care now was to cleanse the City and first beginning to repair the Temples then filling empty houses with Inhabitants Though the chief Latins were fled yet most Tradesmen were Venetians and Pisans to whom to joyn the Genowaies and to sill the City he thought not altogether safe but assigned them 〈◊〉 now Pera on tother fide to inhabit with priviledges and a Consul of their own over every Company storing 〈◊〉 what he could with natural Greeks But though all things went as 〈◊〉 could wish yet fearing such is the torment of usurping tyrants lest the smouldred anger of the Empires right heirs should break into open force and perhaps work his confusion thought best to dispose so of Theodor's children that he might not stand in doubt Besides Mary and Theodora before married to the Despot of Epirus and the Prince of Bulgaria other two younger were in his custody Theodora and Irene whom he married to 2 Latins one of Peloponesus the other to one of Genua men of no great birth or power John the heir only remained but 10 years old whom Paleologus at first sent into Magnesia to be kept from Court lest in his right new stirrs dangerous to his estate should begin The which the 〈◊〉 took so ill that he forsook all to spend his days in a little Monastery of the Piscasins from whence 〈◊〉 drew him almost against his will making him Patriarch of Constantinople The Usurper unmindful of his former faith given 〈◊〉 to establish him and his posterity in the soveraignty caused the young 〈◊〉 eys to be put out for which barbarous cruelty Theodora his sister ceased not to stirr up the Prince of Bulgaria her husband in revenge Jathatines also weary of exile entreated him to war on the Emperour promising him a great sum if he might recover his liberty who with his own power and above 20000 Tartars sooner than could be thought over ran all Thracia leaving neither man nor beast as he went hoping also to surprize the Emperour returning from 〈◊〉 but that he in a Galley of the Latins put in by the Sea side to water arrived safely in the imperial City wherefore the Bulgarian marching to Aenum forthwith being terrified they delivered the Sultan unto him In his return they drave before them such numbers of men and cattel that for a space either 〈◊〉 or beast was not to be 〈◊〉 in the open 〈◊〉 Jathathines carried over 〈◊〉 and set at liberty soon died whom Meleck his Son succeded not but two other Mescott and Keicubades of the Selzuccian Family as were all the Turks Sultans betwixt whom Cazan the great Tartar for a yearly tribute divided the Turks Kingdom unto Mescott the Cities of Amida in Galatia Melasia in lesser Armenia c. unto Keicubades Iconium with all Countries of lesser Asia along the Sea coast So that the Turks Kingdom long flourishing in Persia Syria Palestine and Aegypt were overthrown by the Mamaluks and Tartars and now brought under in lesser Asia also the 2 weak Princes reigning but at the devotion of the Tartar In which confusion divers of power shared something of the declining Kingdom but many of the basest people only with bows and arrows with daily incursions from the Mountains straits much 〈◊〉 the adjoyning Christian Countries still gaining upon the Greeks what they lost to the Tartars for the frontier Garrisons being for want of pay disbanded and the Castles abandoned was at length a great ruin to the Greeks in lesser Asia At length a great power of them meeting in Paphlagonia to invade the Christians Paleologus sent a strong Army to stay their further coming which by unskilfulness of Captains was by the Turks who of purpose retiring had drawn the Greeks into danger of ambush utterly 〈◊〉 few or none of that multitude escaping After which victory the Turks over-ran all the Countrey to the River Sanger on whose banks Paleologus fortified divers places to keep them out of Bithynia Yet they soon 〈◊〉 all from Pontus and Galatia to the Lycian and Carian Sea to the River Eurimedon dividing them 〈◊〉 to Toparchies little acknowledging Mescot or Keicubades Many conflicts in the mean time passed between the Mamalukes and Tartars for the Soveraignty of Syria The poor Christians in doubt of both with the Armenians infested by the Mamalukes sent divers to the Pope and Western Princes for help whose prayers moved Lewis of France and Henry 3 of England topromise them aid Lewis took on him the Cross causing Philip that succeeded him Peter and John surnamed 〈◊〉 for his Mothers heaviness for her husband in her delivery his 3 Sons and most Nobles to do the like to whom the King of Navarr and 2 others joyned He set forward from 〈◊〉 March 1. 1270 staying a while at 〈◊〉 through force of weather he arrived at Carthage not the ancient City but another built after in her ruins or not far from them surprizing certain ships in the Haven but assaulting the Town he was notably repulsed On a day the Defendants making a fierce sally on the French retired by degrees to draw their enemies on The Constable coming and charging them behind and the retirers now standing they were hardly beset who made there a great fight not without extream peril which they in the City beholding hideously cried astonying their friends and enemies But the French approaching a Bulwark on the Sea side took it without resistance at which they without began to flee and them of the Town for their lives yielded it to the King Carthage won he besieged 〈◊〉 being by the way encountred by the Moors King who losing 10000 men fled resolving to keep within his 〈◊〉 walls if happily he might weaken his enemies by protacting time Lewis resolved not to stir thence the City not seeming to hold out for want considering the peoples multitude yet it held out 6 months streightly hemmed in every way after which Embassadours were sent to treat for Peace But the whiles a furious 〈◊〉 cut down the French by heaps John Triftan his youngest Son dying Aug. 25. 1270. The King shortly dyed of the Bloudy flux yet his brother Charles 〈◊〉 with fresh Souldiers somewhat lightned the French and daunred the Moors Edward Henry of England's Son came to 〈◊〉 in 10 daies with a brave Company from 〈◊〉 being joyfully received of the other Princes who a little before concluded a peace with the Moors King upon his paying a yearly tribute of 40000 Crowns to the King of Sicily and suffering
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
forreign 〈◊〉 was forced to turn all his 〈◊〉 and study to 〈◊〉 domestick troubles first perswading his Subjects that this alteration was not made for any good liking he had thereto but for the danger of time for said he if the enemies should come the City in many places rent or but lately repaired c. then they would be Lords not of our Religion and Ceremonies onely but of Wives and Children and whatever we have c. With which perswasion some were contented 〈◊〉 others not whom he imprisoned banished tortured c. using all means to move their minds All which some with patience endured but the greater part the Refuse ran rogueing abroad as men persecuted for their conscience out of the Emperour's Jurisdiction some taking the names of Arsonius his Disciples some of Joseph's and some of others Wherewith the Emperour was so encumbred that he had no leisure to provide against the Turks whose deep devices in aspiring and travels in assuring the Empire with altering his Father's Religion yielded him not so much as an honourable buriall For dying not far from Lysimachia he was by his Son Andronicus his command obscurely buried in a field a good way from his Camp as unworthy of better sepulture for revolting from the Religion of his Ancestors though his Obsequies were afterwards for fashion sake with some solemnity celebrated Andronicus Paleologus succeeding his Father and thinking by restoring the Churches government and rites to appease all troubles before raised found them no less than his Father's for they that liked the Latinos Customs obstinately defended them the other faction countenanced by the Emperor insulted on them without measure whereof arose exceeding stirs chiefly in the beginning of his reign The Turks ceasing not to increase their Territories in Asia but also in the Mediterranean Islands For Andronicus delivered of the greatest fear by Charls of Sicily's death for which he and his Father maintained a strong Fleet of Galleys now perswaded by some to spare that needlesse charge as they termed it had discharged all his Sea-men and laid all the Galleys up in one Creek or another The Marriners went severall waies to seek a living in forreign Countries where some gave themselvs to Husbandry which at the first seemed very profitable to the Emperour till many great mischiefs were too late found hereof For besides the Turks doing great harm at Sea the Pirats took the spoyl of Mediterranean Islands robbing all Towns along the Sea coast and came with their Galleys as in contempt even close to the City yea the Venetians on small displeasure rifled the Suburbs Then also Andronicus had a jealous suspition of his brother Constantine's aspiring to the Empire seeking to win the love of all especially the Nobility at home abroad which were thought but mear slanders maliciously devised The grounds of this suspition were That from his childhood he was for many causes better beloved of his Father than Andronicus so that he could willingly have left him his successour that his Father in his life thought to separate Thessaly and Macedonia from the Empire and make him absolute Prince thereof Andronicus dissembled his secret hatred 3 years after his Fathers death The mean time Constantine bountifully bestowed the profit of his great revenues on all sorts and with sweet behaviour won their hearts He that blames Constantine for the two first they not proceeding of himself should do him wrong but if not experienced he gave such gifts as beseemed the Emperour himself he ignorantly erred but if he knew that therefore he could not be unsuspected he was greatly blameable for he should have considered how many such like doings had brought to untimely ends Constantine lived in Lydia lately married not past 30 years old whom the Emperour passing into Asia secretly resolved suddenly to oppresse And at his coming Constantine not fearing it was with all his favourites and Michael Strategopulus clapt in prison their Lands c. being first confiscate But the Turks those men who defended the frontiers on the East side of Meander being laid fast finding none to withstand them forraged all beyond the River and also passing it did great harm so that the Emperour must make choice of some other worthy aptair those his Cities and Countreys being in danger by the Incursions of the Turks There was in Court Alexius Philanthropenus a valiant young Captain whom the Emperour chose to defend his frontiers in Asia joyning to him Libadarius an old experienced one the one governed the Cities of Ionis the other the frontiers along Meander Alexius by many victorious conflicts soon became of great fame being also very bountifull and courteous unto all Thus all things prospering with him the bordering Turks more moved with his courtesy than fearing the Tartars came to him with their Wives c. many serving in his Camp Libadarius envying thereat suspected left he should proudly aspire to the Empire so first begin with him Alexius had certain companies of Cretensians whom he trusted above others using them for his Guard who in hope by his advancement to raise themselvs perswaded him speedily to take it on him the conceit of which would be no lesse danger than entring the action it self as he might see by Constantine and Strategopulus which quick suggestions wrought in him divers and contrary motions At length the perswaders prevailed with him yet at first he forbade any to mention him in the Army as Emperour which caused the Cretensians almost to force the imperial Ornaments forthwith upon him For said they delay would but fill the Souldiers heads with doubts disourage them with fear of an uncertain event all which whether fearing the great danger or thinking how first to circumvent Libà darius moved him not so to do Libadarius and the Emperor both disquieted had soon the report of his designs Alexius turned from Libadarius to follow after the Emperour's Brother Theodorus not to be feared who warned by his Brother Constantine lived in Lydia far from Court unto whom Alexius fearing many would in the hurly burly resort thought best to make him sure and afterwards to oppresse Libadarius But he of great experience by gathering all possible coyn of his own friends sending also for the Emperour's treasure to Philadelphia raised such a power out of Ionia that in ten daies he dared give the Rebell battell in Lydia and so wrought with the mercenary Cretensians by sums of money given and promises that they promised in the beginning of the battle to deliver him into his hands which they 〈◊〉 fast bound unto Libadarius who in 3 daies after put out his eyes left the Emperour should pardon him and kept him in prison till his further pleasure known Andronicus after this knew not whom to trust putting more confidence in strangers than in his own Subjects to his great hurt He gladly accepted of the Messagets Christians beyond Ister oppressed by the Tartars who offered to come to him with 10000
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
not proud of thy fortune but consider the uncertainty of worldly things taking by me example c. Young Andronicus moved herewith entred the pallace humbly saluting embracing and comforting his Grand-father Straight way carrying away the Patriarch Esaius kept in the Monastery in a Chariot restoring him to his Dignity who spared not fully to revenge himself of the old Emperour's friends One might have seen all the Nobles wealth that took his part carried away and their houses overthrown especially of Metochita whose wealth not onely in his house but layd up with friends by notes in his study was a prey to the people and the rest confiscate being brought with wife and children to extream beggery in one day many to increase his grief saying All that treasure was the blood and tears of the poor subjects brought to him by them he made rulers of provinces c. that he might stop them cruelly dealt with by them from complaining to the old Emperour and that the Revenger's eye was now awaked c. He was confined to Didymoticum whence after a while he was sent back to Constantinople where having nothing to relieve him he went to the Monastery of Chora repaired by him in his prosperity therein shrowding himself and not long after dying But Niphon sometime Patriarch meeting the young Emperour the same day asked How they would deal with his Grand-father Who answering Emperour-like was by him inflamed for Niphon bare a special grudge against the old man for that he being by the Clergy outed of his Patriarchship for his shameful extortion was not defended as he looked for and dreaming his taking out of the way was a step to the same Dignity Wherefore he said If thou desirest to Reign without fear c. cast haire cloath on him and clap him in prison or exile him to which ungracious counsel other Nobles consenting much changed the young Emperour's minde that he could not endure his Grand-father a Companion in the Empire Whereupon it was decreed the old man should retain the name and ornaments but meddle with nothing nor come abroad with 10000 duckets yearly for his maintenance Of which shameful decree 〈◊〉 the Patriarch was a furtherer rejoycingly wresting this Scripture The just shall rejoyce when he seeth the Vengeance But the old Emperour thus shut up humours distilling through grief first lost one eye and shortly the other being often mocked not by his guarding enemies onely but by his own servants The young Emperour not long after falling very sick Catacuzene and the rest yet doubtful of the old blind man put him to choice either to put on him the habit of a Monk or to take dear exile or perpetual imprisonment At which hard choice he oppressed with woes lay on bed a great while speechlesse for being encompassed with barbarous Souldiers none was left to direct him where to go or stand But would he or not they shaving and polling him cast a Monks habite on him changing after the manner his name to Anthony the Monk of which Esaeias was glad as now no hope to recover the Empire nor cause for himself to fear Yet seeming to be very sorry but indeed deriding him he sent two Bishops to know of him how he would be remembred in Church-prayers To which fetching a great sigh he answered As in poor Lazarus appeared a double miracle that dead he rose and bound walked so in me in a contrary manner who alive am dead and loose bound my tongue also wherewith I might at least bewaile my woes and wrongs to the Aire c. But shame hath closed my mouth my brethren abhorre me and the light of mine eyes is not with me c. As for him that sent you I chose and preferred him to the Patriarchship before many worthy men never before preferred or famous c. But in my Calamity he joyned with mine enemies more cruel than any other feigning him to be much like the Crocodile of Nile ignorant and sorry for me But if I should answer to his catching question to be remembred in the Church as an Emperour I shall forthwith be slain If I say as Anthony the Monk it will be taken that of mine own free will I put on this habite which was never in my thought Thus he sent them away and sitting down said My soul return to thy rest c. neither spake he one word more in declaring his grief and so against his will passing over his sorrow in silence as astonished before the humorus gathered into the brain could be difsolved into tears But the Patriarch decreed he should be remembred before his Nephew in Church prayers as the most Religious and Zealous Monk Anthony the better to colour the matter as if weary of the world he voluntary took it on him Yet in four daies Synadenus understanding the people secretly to mutter at the hard dealing with him Ecclesiastical Laws enforcing none against will to enter Religious orders sent to exact an oath of him in writing that he should never seek after accept of or substitute any other in the Empire and to fear him of his life upon refusal setting barbarous Souldiers over him so yielding he signed the Oath with a red and black crosse another guiding his hand Thus living two years on Feb. 12th towards night a day dedicated to St. Anthonies Vigil certain friends had accesse to him amongst whom was the Prince of Servia's widow his daughter and Nicephor as Gregoras Authour of this History with whom he entred discourse till past mid-night then bidding them farewell pleasantly saying To morrow they would end their discourse no signe of sicknesse appearing They gone he eat of a shell-fish after which as his manner was when he felt inward heat he drank cold water then feeling a great pain in his Stomach and afterwards very sick fell into a loosenesse and going often to a house of Office in an inner Chamber not able to recover his own bed and none to help him he dyed before day sitting on a homely bed fast by having Reigned 43 years whose death was by strange signs and accidents foretold a great Eclipse of the Sun just 43 daies before and after of the Moon an earthquake the day before the Sea rising above the bounds made breaches in the Citie-Walls c. Many Crosses and Pinacles with a great Pillar before the Church of the 40 Martyrs he having wished to live so long as it stood were overthrown He was honourably buried in the Monastery of Libe whose Obsequies 9 daies yearly were solemnly kept Thus the Reader may see the Greek Emperour's were not at leasure to look over into Asia At which time Othoman on one side in Phrygia and Bithynia and Aladin's Successours along Meander encroached as fast till the Greeks were thrust quite out But Othoman's 2 Garrisons built before Prusa having continued certain years brought the City to such 〈◊〉 that many Citizens and others died of famine The rest out of hope to
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
rich garment with some other gift telling them he inrended to recover his Fathers Kingdom in Europe or there to end his daies said The prey shall be theirs that win it a Horse Sword and Mace shall content my self So coming to Bosphorus Strait the Emperour transported his Army into Europe and feasted him in a Country Pallace who though he excused to joyn through age with him in that war yet assisted him with some Christian Companies who stood the Turks in grear stead marching to the River Wyzen where Eurenoses by the way advising him to march very circumspectly and not too much to hasten joyning battel counselled him also if by any means to allure Jegides 〈◊〉 Barac Beg and Siman Beg to follow him promising in good time to come himself He shortly marching to Hadrianople Cara Calile began to shew himself and presently put to flight by Michael Ogli besieging Hadrianople the Citizens sent to certifie him they could not through Musa's Garrison then deliver him the City but if by trying it in the field he should carry the victory they should be ready to yield themselves City and all to his pleasure Mahomet content raised the siege marching towards Zagora Musa is reported to come secretly into Mahomet's Camp disguised but perceiving himself too weak withdrew 〈◊〉 woods and strong places from thence to Philopopolis 〈◊〉 along the River Meritze where Jegides with two of Musa's Captains setting on 〈◊〉 rear were by Michael repulsed Mahomet 〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉 as he 〈◊〉 Muse shewed his Army from the Mountains not daring to come down to battel Mahomet marching to 〈◊〉 Jegides Barac and Siman perswaded by Eurenoses 〈◊〉 to him We are three young men having 3000 〈◊〉 Souldiers of incomparable valour c. Draw near 〈◊〉 with what speed thou canst and thou shalt find us 〈◊〉 to come to thee He marching all next night came to the River Morava where the 3 Captains joyned unto him Old Eurenoses also with a great company of expert Souldiers Mark of Servia sent him aid also He began to march farther to Cossova his forces still increasing by the revolt of his Brothers Musa seeing none almost left but the Souldiers of the Court his best and faithfullest men thought best to attempt something before left alone seeking with 7000 to take his brother at advantage But Mahomet had a vigilant eye unto him At last he suddenly set upon his brothers Army but oppressed with multitude after a bloudy fight was put to the worst which he seeing sought death among the thickest of his enemies But Bajazet Bassa desirous to take him alive he was be-set and breaking from the midst of them fled But his horse falling into a muddy ditch or as some hoxed by his owu servant and himself wounded overthrew him and was there taken by Bajazet 〈◊〉 and Barac hardly persuing him Being brought hand-bound through the Army which grieved many most were glad hoping this long Civil war would now end Shortly after came Balta Ogli sent as they thought from Mahomet who after a bitter reproof for his cruelty to Solyman caus'd him to be strangled with a Bow-string Mahomet shed a few Crocodiles tears over his dead body He lyeth buried at Prusa by Solyman reigning 3 years 7 months Mahomet now taking on him the sole Government in Europe and Asia 〈◊〉 Turkish histories here begin his reign accounting 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 time to Musa's death as a vacancy But 〈◊〉 Mahomet held all or most in Asia during this 〈◊〉 in the end the other part in Europe also I reckon 〈◊〉 Bajazet's Successour including all that intestine Tragedy wherein he was chief actor Mahomet busied against Musa in Europe the King of Caramania invaded his Kingdom joyning upon him in Asia burning and spoyling all before him Eivases his Lievtenant not able to withstand him and fearing his coming to Prusa made the Citizens bring most of their wealth into the Castle receiving so many of them as he could willing the rest to shift for themselves The King shortly came to Prusa not yet fully fortified burning it to the ground the second time and besieging the Castle gave it great assaults for 30 daies but was repulsed by Eivases comforting his Souldiers that Mahomet overcomming in Europe would come in few daies for relief Musa's dead body was then conveighing to Prusa with much people The Caramanian fearing it was Mahomet with his power speedily departed the Turks long jested saying If the Caramanian run for fear of the Othoman Kings dead body What would hâ—â— had he come against them alive Solyman's Son a boy departed from Constantinople for the League made between the Emperour and Mahomet to go into Valachia by the way great numbers of voluntary Turks offered to spend their lives in his quarrel Mahomet marching hastily to suppress them they dispersed fled Orchanes being betrayed by his Tu or Zaganes Mahomet put out his Eys allowing him gâ—eat Revenues at Prusa c. This is he who some reckon among the Turkish Kings betrayed to his Uncle Moses etring I suppose in succession and name Now Mahomet assembled a great Army to revenge himself of the Caramanian King Isfendiar sending his Son Casumes for aid and commanding Germian Ogli to provide for victualling as he passed by he entred Caramania taking three Cities and besieging Iconium but through the rain then falling he made peace with the Caramanian News was brought him into Pontus that he renouncing his League was again in Arms. Wherefore returning to Iconium he overthrew the King taking him and his Son prisoners who redeeming themselves by many Cities and Castles concluded a peace receiving of him an Ensign as a token of Vassâ—lship Then passing over Danubius iu Europe he forraged Valachia Transal pina whose Prince sent him what tribute he demanded and his Son to serve in his Court. Then about happenned a great earth-quake in Prusa c. great troubles ensuing in Asia Yet Mahomet going thither kept all in quiet Isfendiar disinheriting his Son for that he would not return to him from Mahomet's Court and wars reserving Castamona with a little more gave Mahomet the rest who in lieu gave Cassumes other great possessions in his own Kingdom He sent Bedredin Musa's Cadelcher to Nice as exiled yet allowing him a great pension Bedredin having in his house one Burgluzes they laid their heads how to trouble Mahomet's peaceable Government Wherefore Burgluzes going into Aidinia pretending great zeal broached divers strange opinions by which he was shortly reputed a famous learned and devout man and had many followers c. Bedredin fled to Isfendiars Country from thence into Valachia and in a Forrest as some devout man allured to him a number of Out-laws and theives there living whom instructed he sent in religious habit into Zagora and other Mahomet's frontiers as his Disciples who published his doctrine c. and that he was by God appointed King of justice and Commander of the world set forth by Burgluluses and received in Asia
would have had all the Rebels put to the sword but by Eivases they were generally pardoned Amurath coming to Boga hanged the Captain and intending to pursue him hired by chance a Genoway ship to transport his Army into Europe for Mustapha caused the shipping to be brought to the other side He now fleeing to Hadrianople fearing to be betrayed speeded thence coming to an obscure place in the Country whence the pursuers brought him bound to Amurath at Hadrianople where he was hanged from the battlements of a high Tower Some Writers report him indeed to be Bajazet's Son but the Turkish Histories reporting as before call him Dusme or counterfait Mustapha c. 〈◊〉 of the common Souldiers apparelled and armed like Janizaries sell into the true Janizaries hands Amurath's guard who used them with all possible indignities A Janizary being hungry brought 2 of these to a Cooks shop to sell them for a little victuals who refusing to give him as having no use of such the Janizary swore to cut off their heads and give them him for nought if he would not redeem them for a thing of nought The Cook moved with pity offered him a Sheeps head which he took swearing he had given more than they were worth which disgrace is yet often objected by the insolent Janizaries telling these Asapi in their rage two of them are not worth a sodden Sheeps head Amurath was not a little grieved to think that this dangerous rebellion was first plotted by the Greeks and then 〈◊〉 by the Emperour of whom 〈◊〉 to be revenged he sent Michael Ogli with his Europeans to 〈◊〉 about Constantinople following in person with the Janizaries and Asians filling the Land's neck before the City from Sea to Sea and beginning furiously to batter the walls but they stronger than he supposed and the Defendants still repairing he ceasing his battery desperately assaulted it but they were notably repulsed some losing their hands some their armes but most their lives no shott falling from the walls in vain Which Amurath beholding sounded a retreat and shortly in great rage departed To whom the Emperour sending about peace he would not hear but threatned ere long to be revenged Wherefore the Emperour to keep him busied devised with the Caramanian King countenancing another Amurath's younger Brother to his no small trouble Mahomet had 5 Sons and 7 Daughters Mustapha surnamed the little was the second who being but 13 years old was set up by Caramanian and other Mahometan and Christian Princes to impeach Amurath's greatnesse who strengthened with their forces besieged Nice at length yielded to him But Amurath corrupting by great gifts and promises Ilias Beg the Princes Tutor he in 9 dayes came to Nice entring with small resistance Mustapha being presented by the Tutor to him who because he would not spill a drop of Sacred Othoman blood strangled him with a bow-string buried at Prusa Amurath now fearing no Competitour removed the 3 Bassaes into honourable places retaining onely Eivases and Ibrahim of his Council Eivases being shortly accused that he sought to aspire the Kingdome usually wearing a privy Coat the Tyrant jealous cast his arme about him as in kindnesse as he rod with him finding him secretly armed would know the cause who answered for fear of some enemies in Court but he forthwith apprehended had his eyes burnt out with a hot steel glasse Mahumethes the while Caramanian King besieged Attalia 6 months Valiantly 〈◊〉 d by Amurath's Lievtenant the King being slain with a great shot as he viewed the City Ibrahim succeeeding brake up the siege to bury his Father Then also Dracula of Valachia passing Danubius did much hurt about Silistra but afterwards was forced to become Amuraths tributary Tzunites then about pretending an interest of descent in the Seignory of Aidinia by all meanes vexed Jaxis Beg the Lievtenant secretly favoured of the Country what they durst Amurath Commanded Anatolia's Viceroy with all power to war on him who invaded the Princes Country who meeting him well provided gave him battle Hasan the Prince's son with a part put part of the Turks to flight and too furiously pursuing left his Father hard beset by the Viceroy glad to flee to Hipsily Castle Hasan returning ignorant of the hap was overcome and taken The Viceroy presently besieging the Castle after a while the Prince in extremity yielded to him without Violence to him or his son to be sent prisoners to Amurath the Viceroy promising it by Oath Iaxis whose brother the Prince by chance before taking put to death attending Hamze to his tent and Hasan as the Turks manner 〈◊〉 sitting on the ground drawing him by the Coller to his fa hers feet struck off his head and in the same rage the aged Prince's also to the great dishonour or the Viceroy Their heads set on 2 Launces in the Castles sight the defendants yielded After Zunites his death all this territory was united to the Othoman Kingdome After all this Amurath married Isfendiars Daughter He now thought high time to 〈◊〉 revenge of the Greek Princes that aided the Rebels aforesaid wherefore ranging with a great Army thorow Macedonia to Thessalonica he surprized divers places belonging to the Emperour by the way This famous City sometime for beauty and wealth not inferiour to any in Greece Amurath hardly besieged with 〈◊〉 battery corrupting secretly some Citizens to have let him in by a secret Mine which being by the Venetian Governours perceived the plotters 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 fled to the Turks Amurath promising his Souldiers all its spoyle if they wan it so inflamed them especially the Janizaries that by a most terrible assault they entred the City The Venetians fleeing to their Galleys got to Sea but no tongue or pen describe the miseries the Christian Citizens endured heartily wishing to die and could 〈◊〉 The furious enemy devoured all Sexes and Ages but those who for strength or comelinesse were reserved to labour and lust afterwards dispersed into most miserable slavery The infinite riches became a spoile the houses desolate given for a habitation to such Turks as at pleasure repaired thither and at this day possessed by them This happened in 1432 〈◊〉 returning to Hadrianople sent Caratze with most of his Army into Aetolia whose Prince Charles dying a little before divided Acharnania amongst his 3 Base sons leaving the rest to his Brothers Son Charles Shortly after Amurath sending aid to one of the brethen falling at discord in fine subjected all Aetolia to himself The Princes of Athens Phocis Boetia and all Greece unto Corinths strait terryfied hereby became tribularies to the Tyrant living long under his slavery Thus the Greeks lost their liberty c. and 〈◊〉 now so degenerate that whereas they accounted all Nations 〈◊〉 in comparison themselves are 〈◊〉 no lesse 〈◊〉 John Castriott who reigned in Epirus seeing how the Turk 〈◊〉 against his Neighbour-Princes for peace delivered his 4 Sons Szanstius Reposius Constantine and George Hostages to Amurath promising well
the glory of the wars he so desired which he granted him yet that he must deal warily with that enemy and not rashly take up Arms c. Mustapha entred into Epirus hoping in one battel to end the war Of which Scanderbeg hearing then at Dayna siege from his frontier Garritons commanded them to protract the time of encounter till his coming Then choosing 500 horse and 1500 foot old Souldiers he marched into the upper Dibria leaving Amesa at the siege Mustapha beginning to burn and spoyl when he understood of Scanderbeg's coming encamped at Oronoche within two miles of him Scanderbeg had in his Camp 4000 horse and 2000 foot 300 of whom he left in the fortified Trenches Whilst both Armies ranged in view of each other expecting the signal Caragusa a Turks man at Arms in gallant furniture issuing out challenged to fight with any one of the Christian Army At first Scanderbeg's Souldiers 〈◊〉 still looking one upon another till one Paul Manessi accounted the best man at Arms there with great courage and chearfulness requested Scanderbeg he might accept that challenge who commending him willed him to set forward for honour to himself and example of the rest Paul bravely armed mounted to horse and riding forth called to the Turk to make ready to fight Caragusa required to stay a while speaking unto him That 〈◊〉 he had the honour of the day he might by Law of Arms carry away his rich spoyls and dispose of his dead body But if he should fall under him he required the same right and power that none move out of either Army to better either of their fortunes Manessi answered he agreed to those conditions saying Where the fierce soul yielded all the rest ought to be Conquerours therefore he should fight fearlesse of any enemies but himself that if he would give his dead body to his fellow Souldiers tears yet Scanderbeg would not suffer a vanquished cowards carkase to be brought into his Camp Caragusa marvelled at his resolution Both Champions after confirmation of the combate-laws by the Generals being left alone betwixt the Armys with all eys fixed on them and withdrawing themselves for making their course violently running together Caragusa was at the first encounter strook thorough the head and slain whose head Manessi striking off returned with his armour and head victoriously to the Army and was honourably commended and rewarded by Scanderbeg Scanderbeg and his men hereby encouraged and the Turks dismayed set himself first forward towards the enemy and had charged them had not Mustapha with some disordered Troops opposed himself the Army faintly following and at first encounter driven to retire Mustapha earnestly calling on them to follow him fiercely charged Scanderbeg's front whom most of his principal Captains following 〈◊〉 battel was for a while renewed But Moses greatly prevailing in one part the Turks fled Mustapha with 12 chief ones being taken of the common Souldiers few saved 10000 Turks were slain 15 Ensigns taken but 300 Christians lost All their Camp became a prey yet Scanderbeg entring Macedonia burnt and spoyled all he could do Leaving 2000 horse and 1000 foot to defend his frontiers he returned to Dayna siege Amurath about the time of the Venetians making peace with Scanderbeg sent him presents with 25000 Ducats for Mustapha and the others ransome which he divided amongst his Souldiers and leading his Army again into Macedonia he made his Souldiers better pay with the spoyl and for the more harm divided it into 3 parts putting all the Turks coming in his way to the sword leaving the Christians no more than their lives utterly consuming the buildings with fire in all that part bordering upon Epirus that the Turks should find no relief to lay in Garrison or invade it it was thought there was not enough left to relieve the Turks Army for a day Amurath herewith exceedingly vexed resolved to go in person with an Army not to conquer Epirus but if need were to fill every corner of it None but the Bassa's of the Councel knew whither he imployed the same which made the bordering Christian Princes prepare for their own assurance But Scanderbeg easily perceived it to be made against him and the rather for Amurath's unaccustomed quietness as if he had been in a 〈◊〉 sleep It was thought also he had intelligence from suspecting Courtiers his friends wherefore setting all things apart he first advertized his neighbour Princes of that 〈◊〉 danger Amurath seeking the destruction of them all and therefore to stand fast on their guard Then he sent Moses and others to take the Souldiers and all provision possible himself not resting till he left nothing in the Countrey for the enemies cruelty Most of the people with their substance were received into the strong Cities the rest into the Venetian and other Princes Countreys till this sury was overpast all able to bear Arms were commanded to Croia out of which multitude Scanderbeg those only 1000 old Souldiers with whom he purposed to encounter the Turks as he saw occasion and placing 1300 in Croia whose Citizens were furnished with all weapons and provision to defend the City Proclamation was made that all aged men with women and children should depart c. Croia being the chief City Scanderbeg had the greater care for its defence All was full of weeping and wailing at the departure of this weak company no house no street no part of the City was without mourning c. In the midst of these passions commandement came from Scanderbeg That they must now depart that the Souldiers might take their charge Then began sorrows afresh with pitious screeching and tears and departing set their feet many times they wist not where for desire of looking back upon the City who were conveighed into Venetian Cities and other places whither all not before received into strong Cities resorted with their substance and nothing left in all Epirus but the ground After this Scanderbeg stored Croia with all needful things giving to every Souldier a small reward and placing vatiant 〈◊〉 Governour thereof And exhorting them in few words couragiously to endure the siege not listening to Amurath's charms departing to his Army within view marched towards Dibria Not gone far he met Moses with a gallant Troop coming from Sfetigrade which strong City was Scanderbeg's second care it standing first in the Tyrant's way Moses having there set all in like order placed politique Peter Perlat Governour with a strong Garrison chosen out of all Dibria accounted the best men of war in Epirus Scanderbeg delivering him prepared-forces sent him with divers others to take order for defence of other Cities and Castles every man having his charge Himself with a small Troop went to Sfetigrade where all the Souldiers assembled in the Market-place he spake unto them That a fairer occasion could not be presented unto brave minds than that which now caused them to take up Arms which they had hitherto borne for their Kingdoms honour
〈◊〉 now they must fight for their lives liberty c. That Amurath's first pastage would be this way that the first fruits of this war is theirs that if they bear couragious hearts they might beat down the haughty enemies strength and discourage his high conceits who will not lay long here except the way-ward old man will foolishly gage all his forces for such is the scituation and strength of this City that it may easily set at naught an angry enemy Therefore to resolve with themselves c. That it seldom chanceth fortune to fail sound advice or vertue and they had all things which politick care could provide sor their safety that they might be encouraged with the very sight one of another and himself would not be far off a silent beholder and encourager of their vertue where though he might not try this wars fortun in plain field yet he would trouble the enemies designs with many a hot skirmish that he will first feed their hardiness with his base Souldiers blood the easier to entrap and oppresse their rashness but his crafty devices are by great policy and consideration to be frustrated For that victory should be to him lamentable bought with Souldiers blood c. That if they suffered not themselves to be conquered of the Sultan he would praise and honour his subjects as conquerours Having thus encouraged their minds he visited other Cities returning to his Army near Croia Amurath the mean time his Army of 150000 was assembled at Hadrianople whereof many were pioniers c. He sending 40000 Light-horsmen before him to encamp before the City Scanderbeg with 4000 horse 1000 foot took his way towards Sfetigrade strongly encamping within 7 miles thereof whence with Moses and Tanusius he went by blind waies till from the top of a hill he might discover how the enemy lay encamped returning back he the night following drawing as near the Turks as he could placed his Army in the Woods and Valleys unperceived Then he sent Moses and Musache with 30 of the best horsemen as if but common Souldiers driving horses laden with Corne by a by-way and secretly to 〈◊〉 into the City Being discovered and set upon they fled on purpose but Moses seeing themselves 〈◊〉 but with a like number returning back he slew five chasing the rest to the Campe whose Genetall sending 〈◊〉 horse to pursue them they soon recovered sight of them Moses of purpose slowly hastening the Turks drawing nigh Moses leaving the Horses fled yet drawing them on till brought where the Army lay in 〈◊〉 by whom being with great slaughter put to flight 2000 were slain and 1000 Horses taken but 22 Christians being lost Amurath came 8 dayes after the beginning of May 1449. and encamping his baser 〈◊〉 at the foot of the Hill himself lay with his 〈◊〉 c. farther off After one day he towards evening sent a Meslenger to the City to speak with the Governour whom he requested the Souldiers might goe further off having something to say to him in 〈◊〉 Perlat merrily answering said He had not learned to hear any message from his Enemy by night not at any time else out of the Garrisons hearing tomorrow if thy Master please I will heare thee at large commanding him to depart from the Walls Amurath more hoping to gaine the City by large offers than by great force dissembled his wrath sending that Messenger with a grave 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Epirus who with 5 men being received into the City and brought into Maries Temple where after insinuating eloquence he augmented the terrour of Amurath's power exhorting them to yield the City promising the Citizens to live in all respects as under Scanderbeg before that Perlat should have most honourable preferments with many rich gifts the Souldiers safely to depart whither they would and 300000 〈◊〉 among them But the Governour replied That 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 had not been delivered to resolute men it might 〈◊〉 have wrought some effect c. But since no ill 〈◊〉 of Scanderbeg's nor good desert of Amuraths 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a Stranger before their naturall Prince had passed c. his Master should first proceed in his action 〈◊〉 down their Walls make havock of their men c. But it were almost to be laughed at if they should cowardly accept of these conditions before any assault given c. that Amurath had better get back to Hadrianople to spend his old years in quiet and not provoke them his fatall enemies c that he would never forget his faith given to the last drop of blood 't was reward enough to him if living to defend the City or loosing life to leave his guiltlesse soule at liberty c. Then 〈◊〉 the Bassa he led him thorow the City on purpose to shew him the store of Victualls So sending him away much discontented to his Master who exceeding wroth 〈◊〉 the City three dayes together and making a small breach he gave a most terrible assault by his common Souldiers the Asapi thereby to give easier Victory to his Janizaries and better Souldiers whilst these are slaine by 〈◊〉 at the breach the Janizaries attempted the Wall in another place who first difficultly crawling up the steep Rock then mounting their Scaling ladders they were with huge stones c. 〈◊〉 down to the bottom and miserably slain Many with their Scaling ladders were thrust from the Wall carrying others behind them with them Some taking hold of the Battlements lost fingers hands most their lives Many farther off were wounded also with 〈◊〉 The Turks discouraged began to withdraw but the Captains by exhorting and threatning some and beating others the assault was renewed not with such courage yet no lesse slaughter the defendants shouting from the Walls Amurath sent Feri Bassa with 3000 chosen Souldiers to renew the fight who without regard of danger brought them to the Walls whom the defendants overwhelmed with Stones Timber Wild-fire c. Yet Feri Bassa slew divers and had not the Governour with a fresh company speedily come to the place had entered Amurath seeing the great slaughter and no hope retired into his Campe Yet not ceasing to give the like vaine attempt The Captaine of the Janizaries perceiving a part of the City seeming impregnable to be commonly but slenderly manned told Amurath he would assay it secretly by night wherewith the King pleased it was silently put in execution The Governour advertised hereof by the watch repaired thither with a great Company beholding the Turks climbing and helping up each other by that desperate way But being come to the top of the Rock they were suddenly overwhelmed and violently forced downe most being crushed to death and many of the rest slaine with shot wherewith Amurath was exceedingly grieved Scanderbeg still removing as best served his purpose brake sometimes into one quarter of their Campe sometimes into another and was straight way gone againe Being the latter end of June come within 8 miles he sent Moses like a
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
who setting forward with almost 40000 Scanderbeg more doubted of the man than his power and assembled greater forces than usually sending 2000 expert Souldiers into the enemies Country to lye in ambush whereby Caraza must needs passe who setting upon 4000 horse Caraza's forerunners they were most part slain those escaping posting back to bring tydings Caraza was now so discomfited he could willingly have returned yet for honours sake he came to Epirus where long resolving what to do he was suddenly assailed by Scanderbeg before he could put his men in order Then through a vehement shower both Armies retired before any great hurt done It rained three days together for it was about the latter end of Autumn Scanderbeg not ceasing to trouble the Turks camp so that Caraza through the weathers extremity and Scanderbeg's restless attempts rose and returned to Constantinople whom Mahomet derided promising so much and performing so little yet in some sort commending him for looking on Scanderbeg with lesse losse than other Generals Mahomet not at leasure to imploy such forces wherewith Scanderbeg was to be subdued proved if by getting within him he might bring him to confusion wherefore he sent rich Presents and Letters to this purport that He thought no acquaintance greater or friendship firmer than that which grew from long and mutual converse and living together as he knew it had been betwixt them Wherefore remembring all those things and also what he often did for advancement of his Empire c. he could not but embrace him with a singular affection that nothing could be more welcom to him than to enjoy his company a while Neither needed he to fear comming to him c. that to let passe his Souldiers late breaking into his Kingdom without his knowledge who was not offended at their overthrow he was perswaded to joyn with him in a perpetual league of amity Of which these should be the capitulations if they seemed to him reasonable first to suffer his Armies to passe thorow his Kingdom against the Venetians then to have his Sonne John in hostage whom he would use as his natural Child A free Trade of his Merchants into all parts of his Kingdom Lastly Himself to repair to him and return without fear In which things he yielding he promised him in the faith of a King to grant him and his Kingdom sincere peace with perpetual tranquillity c. May 10th 1461. Scanderbeg well considering returned answer that He wrote of exceeding love c. toward him which should alwayes retain its strength But since among other conditions of the propounded league that his forces may have free passage to invade the Venetians it standeth not with equity or his honour they being his friends and confederates and for his Sonne since he hath no more but him it is not good to have him taken from him being as yet a tender Child c. As for the Merchants he heartily wished a free entercourse indifferently into both their Kingdoms And for his perswasion of him boldly to come unto him He could not but prayse his honourable disposition c. whose perswasion if other urgent affaires and his Kingdoms Government a fierce and restless Nation would permit he would follow Yet he in a more commodious time would come unto him May 30. 1461. Mahomet well perusing these Letters wrote to him again that he understood he liked of none of the conditions propounded but that of the Merchants that this offer he would accept of and his other excuses admit of promising him to keep a sincere peace with him for ever except he first caused its violation And that he had signed these Letters with the Imperial Seal sent unto him by Mustapha thereby confirming it that he might likewise with his Seal confirm this of his That he openly proclaim the same through his Kingdom as he will cause to be in his That of his meer bounty he freely granted and confirmed to him and his Heires all the right to what he had forcibly taken from his Father in Albania and Epirus and will alwayes account and call him Prince thereof c. So bidding him farewel and render love for love June 22. 1461. Hereupon a peace was concluded betwixt them and solemnly proclaimed to the great joy of many It was faithfully kept on both sides till the Turks on the frontiers began to fetch booties out of Epirus of which Scanderbeg complaining Mahomet as ignorant seemed much offended causing much to be restored whereby the peace was still continued A little before this peace Warres began between the Turks and Venetians who being in league with the Turk followed their Traffique little regarding their Neighbors harms But Mahomet after the subverting Constantinople's Empire and driving Thomas and Demetrius out of Peloponesus now Morea began to disturb the Venetians who held then divers strong Towns there Mahomet's Lievtenant having through a Greek Priest's treachery surprized Argos and Omares first spoyling about Naupactum now 〈◊〉 made all havock about Methone and Corone Wherefore the Venetian Senators much troubled deliberated ost in Counsel what course to take Some thought it best to try if it might be fairly redressed by Ambassadors to Mahomet others deemed it to no purpose seeing such outrages could not be done without his knowledge and command In this diversity of opinions and nothing yet concluded at length one Victor Capella a grave Senator franckly delivered a notable Speech unto them calling upon them for resolution Seeing he said they must of necessity take up Arms be they never so loath c. and endeavouring to remove their objections he said when their Ambassadors not long since came to him he dallied off the time with deceitful and glosing Speeches doing such contrary things as they least hoped c. that Argos was already taken from them that Mahomet it was reported going a second time out of Peloponesus and sounding the passage its depth himself rode over that Sea strait betwixt 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 curiously viewing where he might most conveniently passe over with his Army to besiege that City and that those were manifest signes of Warre c. And whereas some fed themselves and others with vain hopes that he would never turn his forces upon them c. He said it plainly appeared that he had already proclaimed open Warre against them by invading surprising and killing their people whether they thought it more expedient to sit still suffering their Dominions to be taken from them or by open Warre to make the barbarous King kno w the greatness of their power who if suffered prosperously still to run on people would daily more and more fall to him hoping to live the better as his friends wherefore he thought it better to prefer an honourable Warre before a doubtful Peace That delay had hurt many States themselves most of all whereby they in a fort had betrayed the Greek Empire for their traffique was much holpen by the Grecians whom they left to themselves
they digging up his bones those who could get never so little thereof set it in silver or gold hanging it about their necks or otherwise wearing thinking thereby to have such good hap as Scanderbeg had while he lived The Hungarians and Venetians most time of these Wars busied the Turks for Matthias entring Bosna overthrew the Turks frontier forts and driving them out till he came to Jaziga or Jaitze the chiefe City at length took it wresting all that Kingdome out of their hands whereupon Mahomet hardly besieging Jaziga it was valiantly defended till Mathias comming to its reliefe so troubled the Turks Campe on one sice and the besieged with salleys on the other that the Turk stealing away with his Armie by night into Servia left his Tents and great Ordinance for haste which the Turks Histories report he cast into the River whom Mathias following into Servia and taking part thereof united it with 〈◊〉 to Hungarie After which Mahomet had no great stomack to provoke the Hungarians Mathias being now as dreadfull to the Turks as the name of his Father Huniades Then also the Venetians scouring the Seas did great harme to the Turk by landing in severall places amongst others Nicholas Canalis succeeding Lauretanus comming into Salonichi Bay burnt divers Townes and Villages by the Sea side Then returning into Pelopouesus he in despire of all the Turks could do fortified 〈◊〉 where leaving a strong Garrison he returned into Euboea and soon after sayling along Macedonia and Thracia surprized Aenus upon the River Meritza's mouth taking its spoile and carrying away 2000 Captives into Euboea Then likewise the Venetians ayding Duchaine against his Brother Alexius striving for Zadrima's principality greatly overthrew the Turks neer Drine River in Epirus who came in Alexius quarrel Mahomet perceiving that Euboea Island now Nigropont 10 miles long abounded with Corne Wine Oyle Fruit and Wood for shipping and separated from 〈◊〉 with à narrow strait of the Sea was for its commodious 〈◊〉 and strength the chiefe place whence the Venetians wrought him all these wrongs resolved to imploy all his forces both by Sea and land for the gayning thereof wherefore assembling a mighty A rmie and sending Mahomet Bassa with 300 Galleys and other small Vessels well furnished into Euboea himself marched through Achaiae till he came over against Chalcis The Venetian Admirall finding himself too weak for the Turks Fleet returned towards Seiros But the Bassa comming out of Hellspontus Straits came without let to Euboea where taking and razing Stora and Basilicon he went directly to Chaleis of whose smaller Vessels Mahomet making a bridge over the Strait passed to the City Chaleis Rich Populous and very strong besieging it round by Sea and land where with his battery faire breaches by the chiefe Cannoneers giving the Turks by signes knowledge where the Walls were weakest being the sooner made the Traitour it being perceived was executed Yet what he beate downe by day they repaired by night Thus for 30 dayes the City being defended to the Turks great losse in their sharpe assaults the Venetian Admirall comming in view of the City shewed as if he would give the Turks battell Wherefore Mahomet it s reported was about to goe over into the maine with his Armie lest the Venetians breaking the bridge should have shut him in which its thought he might have done if he would have adventured as his Capraines earnestly requested But comming to an Anchor he moved not which the Turk perceiving brought on his men to the Wal's breaches promising them the Cityes spoile c whereof himself said he would be aneye witnesse Whereupon the Turks furiously assaulting the defendants made such slaughter of them that the ditches were filled and the breaches made up with their dead bodys but Mahomet still sending in fresh supplies this dreadfull assault was maintained a day and a night without ceasing who twice winning the breaches were beaten out againe At length the defendants being most flain or wounded and the rest wearied retiring into the Market place sold their lives deare to the Turks among whom were found many dead women who chose rather to die in defence than to fall into the Turks hands Mahomet although Lord of the City yet losing 40000 in the siege put all men there alive to most cruel death especially the Italians with exquisite torments Ericus the Governour fleeing with a few into the Castle on promise of safe departure delivered up the same but having them in his power the Tyrant cruelly murthered them Erigus's Daughter being presented to Mahomet as the mirrour of beauty when he could not prevaile on her by flattering words c to consent unto his desire threatned her with death torture c But the constant Virgin resolutely denying he commanded her forthwith to be slaine And the horrible cruelty committed by the Turks at the taking of Chalcis passeth credit the rest of the Island without resistance yielding to the Turkish slavety This happened in 1470. Caualis the City being lost fearing to be set on by the Turks dishonourably returning to Venice he was by the Senate imprisoned and afterwards with his family banished to Utinum Mahomet and his Fleet soone after returning the Venetians attempted a sudden surprize of Chalois but the Garrison there left was so strong that retiring to their Galleys they forsook Euboea Petrus Mocenicus being chofen Admirall instead of Canalis the Venetians solicited Pope Sixtus the 4th the King of Naples the King of Cyprus and the Master of Rhodes to joyne with them against the common Enemy which they promised They sent also Zenus to Usun Cassanes King of Persia to incite him against the Turk who next year taking up Arms had with him mortall Warres who not ignorant of these things and knowing how he had offended Christian Princes by his cruelty at Chalsis lay a while still at Constantinople as if desirous to live in peace whereby as he wisht nought worth speaking was that year attempted against him who also requested the Persian King if it were onely but for community of the Mahometan Religion to withdraw taking up Arms in the Christians Cause though otherwise he regarded not Religion but Zenus so wrought wi h Usun Cassanes that he told the Turks Ambassadors he neither could nor would longer endure the Turkish Kings injury and that having made a league with the Christian Princes he would to his power perform whatever he had promised so dismissing them discontented as were the Persian Ambassadors before from the Turkish Court touching the Emperour of Trapezond The yeare following 1472. Mocenicus arriving in Lesbos did great harm and passing into the lesser Asia sore spoiled about Pergamus Then landing again at Cnidus he took a great booty so returning having exceedingly hurt all along the Sea-Coast laden with spoil to Peloponesus on whose Coast he met with Richiensis with seventeen Gallies from King Ferdinand of Naples who joyning their Fleets in one landed at Modon in Peloponesus
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
into Greece Bajazet forthwith sent Mustapha Bassa to Pope Alexander with like instructions who comming safely to Rome among many things in charge the life of Zemes was that he most sought for of the Bishop Charls the French King then in 1495 passing thorow Italy against Alphonsus and so thorow Rome so terrified Alexander the Bishop that he yielded to all conditions he demanded not purposing the performance of any giving him Casar Borgia his Sonne in hostage then a Cardinal covering the disgrace with his Sonnes Title of Legate and was forced to deliver him Zemes who to the Bishop's profit had remained seven yeares there in custody who three dayes after died at Caieta thought to be poysoned before by a wondrous white and pleasant powder cunningly mingled with the Sugar which Zemes drank with water whose dead body sent to Bajazet was by his appointment honourably interred at Prusa Borgia also deceiving his Keepers at Velitras returned to Rome before Charls came to Naples which wicked imp shortly after envying Candianus his Brother General of the Bishops forces then great having supped together with their Mother caused him to be murthered going home and his body to be cast into Tiber. Then casting off his 〈◊〉 Robes took on him the leading of his Fathers Army And with exceeding prodigality exhausting his Fathers Coffers and the Church Treasures bound to him desperate Ruffians and Souldiers chiefly Spaniards his Fathers Countreymen which proceedings his Father winked at fearing it was thought to be murdered of him himself He now became a terror to the Roman Nobility and Signiories thereabouts by his Fathers help desiring to make him great drave the Family of the Columnii out of the City then out of Italy and poysoning or killing the honourable of the Ursine and Caetane Families took their possessions strangling at once 4 Nobles of the Camertes and driving Guide Feltrius out of Urbin taking Pisaurum from John Sfortia hardly escaped his hands and driving the Malatestaes out of Ariminum thrusting the Lady Catherine Sfortia out of Forum Liuli and Cornelii shamefully leading her in triumph thorow Rome And shedding blood without measure he took Faventia from young Astor Manfredus whom having abused against Nature he caused to be strangled and east into Tiber But he being with his Father at a solemn Supper in the Vaticane prepared to destroy some Cardinalls and other chief Citizens they were both poysoned by a waiter's mistaking the Flagon of poysoned Wine prepared for the guests the Bishop dying few dayes after but his Sonne the same being more allayed with water died not a long time after yet was so sick that he was soon forsaken of his followers seeing two of his enemies Pius the 3d and Julius the 2d sitting in his Fathers place Pius enjoying it but 16 dayes whom Julius succeeding caused Casar Borgia to be shut up in a Castle whence he freed him upon delivery of some strong Holds held by his Garrisons who fleeing to Ostia and so by Sea to Naples he was for fear of raising new stirs in Italy apprehended by Ferdinand King of Spain's Command and imprisoned in Spain in Medina Castle where after three years he escaping by a rope from a high Tower fled to the King of Navarre in whose Warres he was in a hot skirmish though he got the Victory slain with a small shot whose body found stript and brought to the King on a bad Beast was honourably buried at Pampilona But the French King having lost Zemes by death and Borgia by escape journied toward Naples all places yielding to him as he went without much resistance Alphonsus destitute of requested aid and most of the Nobility hating him for too severely punishing the late rebellious the Princes of Sarne and Salerne being chief and the people murmuring at their heavy exactions for these Warres maintenance with teares in sight of the Neopolitans resigned his Kingdom to his Sonne Ferdinand scarce reigning a year after his Fathers death passing over to Mazerea in Sicilia Ferdiuand was to the wondrous content of the Neapolitans with joy c. saluted King returning presently to his Army by which time the French King was with his forces entred far into Naples and having taken divers Cities by assault struck the Neopolitans with a general terror Ferdinand had taken the Straits of St. Germanes Forrest to hinder Charls his further passage but suddenly hearing that Columna had broken by the Appenines into Campania he doubting to be shut up betwixt two Armies retired to Capua where through the River Vulturnus deepness he purposed to stop the French but newes being brought that the Citizens of Naples were all up in Arms doubting which way to turn he troubled leaving his Army and Capua in charge to his Captains rode back post to Naples by whole arrivall every man laying down his Arms generally welcommed him who earnestly requesting them not to betray him their natural King unto his cruel enemies c. they all answered they would spend themselves in his quarrel while keeping his Army whole and defending Capua but if the Arragonians should be overthrown or abandon that City and the French King approach Naples he should against reason and equity exact his Subjects fidelity So exposing City and Country thereabouts to be spoiled c. Charls the while being come to Capua the Citizens though ever affected to the Arragon Kings yet the French King beating down all before him they consulted of yielding up the City and the rather through the revolt of Trivultius and his followers which caused Verginius Petilianus to flee to Nola with their Companies The French hereupon entring the Suburbs Gothfredus Gaspar two valiant Germanes sallied forth with their Companies and having valiantly repulsed the French in their return were shut out of the Gate and in danger of the enemy who on their knees entreating the cowardly Citizens on the Walls not so to berray their friends c. at length were received ten by ten in at one Gate and put out at another farthest from the enemy who going towards Naples met with the King at Aversa declaring what had hapned at Capua who notwithstanding came to its very Gates calling on divers chief ones to be let in but none answering him and a French Ensign being on the Wall he returned to Naples where he found the Gates shut against him and all the Citizens in Arms not willing to receive any but the King himself for it was famed that all his chief Captains were gone to the enemy or fled the Army broken up and Capua yielded wherefore they began to contemn Ferdinand who fetching a compasse came to the Castle whereinto he was received but foreseeing he should there be besieged by Sea and Land he commending it to valiant Davalus his keeping departed with 20 Gallies to the Island Aenuria not farre off But Justus the Captain of the Castle traiterously shut the Gates against him wherewith the Prince wondrously perplexed with intreaty and remembrance of
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
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
like Antiochus the Aetolians and Vitellians all whose courage consisted in words c. but Victory was gained by exposing themselves to danger Though the multitude with these and the like 〈◊〉 moved desired to fight as not wanting Weapons courage or hands to slaughter their enemies yet the graver sort thought not good to adventure any great part of forces afterwards to be wanted for defence of the City The Turkish General deceived of his expectation withdrew 12 miles off to Villanova where landing his men he burnt all the corn thereabouts the people being all retired either into the Rhodes or Castles in other places of the Islands Villerius careful to reserve his Souldiers for more expected dangers commanded troops sent to skirmish with them to return and during the Siege he would often eat his meat with his Souldiers watching himself and walking up and down he would rest on some homely seat as it chanced being more adventurous in time of assault than was wished yet more allowing Counsel grounded on Reason than prosperous actions commended but by events he carried alwayes among so many cares such a grace in his chearful countenance as made him to be reverenced and loved bestowing all the time he could spare in praying c. and that oftentimes most of the night in the Temple alone his Armour laying by him so that it was commonly said His Devotion and Care would make the City invincible July 26. Early news came from Stevens watch-Tower about a mile off 〈◊〉 a huge Fleet reported above 200 sayl was making thitherwards along the West of Lycia whereupon all places were full of tumult and a pittiful cry as is usual in such cases publike prayers were made throughout the City 〈◊〉 ended the gates were shut up people of all ages and sexes going forth to gaze upon that dreadful Fleet the formost being the Admiral of Callipolis who was to assail the City by Sea Cara Mahometes was Rear-Admiral with a great squadron of Galleys and a fair wind striking before the mouth of the Haven began to row towards the City but many hasting unto that Bulwark defending the left side of the Haven more subject to danger than the other the Turk fearing to be sunk got him to the rest of the Fleet the Rhodians deriding him with out-cryes for his folly The Fleet passing on came to the Promontorie of Bo about 3 miles Eastward which Harbour being too small many Galleys riding it out at Sea were by shot often forced to get further off Whilst the enemy was landing and transporting all things and men also viewing the City and choosing a fit place for his Camp the Rhodians sunk many soundding the Walls to discover the enemies Mines and fortified their Bulwarks with bigger Rampires The Master sent also one Knight into Spain to Charls the Emperour and another to Rome thence into France craving ayd by Letters for relief by Sea and Land but they grudging against each other or respecting only themselves returned them with good words without relief Then also Preianes forementioned comparable with any Captain of that age c. having hid himself 2 or 3 dayes in the Rocks at Sea for fear of the Turks came by night in a Pinnace to the Rhodes whereat they wondrously rejoyced whom Villerius in any great exploit trusted above any and who in the Siege chearfully endured such labours as others accounted extream miseries Also Mariningus a most skilful Engineer coming out of Creet defeated by Counter-mines 55 Mines which the Turks made with exceeding charge and labour The City is 〈◊〉 on a Plain every way to be besieged except Northward for its goodly Haven thence laying all Westward 〈◊〉 it and the Hill's about it is a stony Plain longer than broader the Hills being full of planted Orchards but it was compassed with a most strong double Wall deep Trenches having 13 sure and stately Towers with 5 mighty Bulwarks divers fair gates with most exact Warlike Discipline from the French Tower seeming to mate the skie stood the French with the Lillies in their Ensignes under Abimus a Knight of the Order thence to George's gate lay the Germans with the Eagle then the French Avergnois with the Spaniards the Ditches being there not so deep or broad as elswhere Fiftly the English whom the Master himself commanded then they of Narbona lastly the Italians under Balimus and Morgutus In every Station were divers valiant Knights of the Order A Turkish woman-slave conspired with some others when the Turks gave the first assault to fire the Houses wherein they dwelt in divers places that the defendants drawn to quench it the Turks might more easily enter but the Treason was revealed and they executed The Turks had not placed their Battery when as they took a Hill whereon stood Cosmus and Domianus Temple right against the English Station with little hurt so far off shooting thence into the City Then having with them 5000 pioneers whom they forced to labour day and night with incredible speed wayes were cut through the stony Rocks Plaines rais'd to Mountains with earth brought two miles off and Mountains levelled yet were they sadly rent in sunder with the Town-Ordnance the Rhodians also sallying out fiercely pursued and slew great numbers of them and of others defending them and when many others thought to relieve their fellows the Ordnance from the Walls so thundered among them that the ground was covered with Weapons and Carcasses After three such salleys the Turks wrought most by night keeping most strong watch and doubling it by day bending their Ordnance against the Rhodians sallying places which kept them not so much in as the fear of weakening themselves Amongst others certain Marriners having the Turks 〈◊〉 by leave disguising themselves as Turks came forth by night in a small Boat laden with Apples Pears Plums c. to the place where the passage is out of the maine There as if come from the main the Turks bought their fruit greedily which they having sold and now ready to depart certain Turks disliking the hard beginning of the Siege earnestly requested to be taken with them into the maine who with much ado in shew were entreated to take in 7 or 8 whom they could master bringing them prisoners to the Rhodes Where being brought up by Preianes to the top a Tower where they might descry all the Turks Camp discovered unto him all he demanded and confessing that the Souldiers discontented with the Siege were ready to mutiny hardly to be commanded forth saying all was but lost labour c. Wherefore if they were wise they should in time depart which appeared afterwards true for Pyrrhus Bassa gladder to please the Souldiers than to punish wrote to Solyman if he would have the Siege go forward he should speedily come in person to the Camp they refusing to be commanded The Turkish Captains heard the while by some fugitives that the high steeple of St. Johns served as a watch-Tower Wherefore and
subdued Belgrade he rested in great hope those fierce and obstinate Christians should not be able long to defend themselves in their Dens and lurking places The Captains making known the Emperours pleasure proclaimed the spoil of that rich City to the 〈◊〉 s a prey Solyman layd him down on his Pallet to take rest but Villerius all night in Arms viewed all the City encouraging his Souldiers to remember they watched for Countrey life and liberty A Christian serving a Turk secretly warning the Watchmen of a general assault next day Villerius calling his Knights to prevent rashness and fearfulness said He was glad the time was come when in one battel they might be justly accounted the defenders of the Christian Commonwealth the Turks presumed upon their multitude but if they measured valour not by number but courage a few resolute would overcome a multitude of cowards that they knew their manner of fight c. Wherefore remembring their birth and what opinion the Christian Common-wealth hath had of them they should furiously fight as if their slaves bore Arms against them necessity as well as wrong enforcing them for they were in an Island whence was no escape and in a City whose rent walls defended them not so much as their Weapons therefore to morrow should give them a joyful Victory or a most honourable death The enemies approach made him cease every one hastening to his charge they with a horrible cry fiercely assailed 5 stations 10000 Turks being appointed to a Place Mustapha calling on Mahomet and promising his men the spoil assailed the English whence he had been thrice repulsed Pyrrhus 〈◊〉 ed the Italian a cruel and deadly fight was in both places also Women Children and aged men bringing stones burning-Pitch-Barrels hoops with wild-fire scalding Oyl and boyling Pitch on whomsoever it fell so scalded them that 〈◊〉 down their weapons to tear off their Cloaths many rent off the skin and flesh besides the deadly shot which fell never in vain Villerius having well relieved the Italians station at first hardly distressed left Monterollus a Knight with company convenient and went to the English hardly laid to by Mustapha but having well relieved that place a cry ran that the Spanish Bulwark was possessed by the enemy at which heavy newes he leaving Gombaulus with a choyse Company hasted thither with his Guard which he found taken for some Turks at the first hiding for fear at the Bulwarks foot among the stones beaten down by battery Achimetes hotly charging the Spaniards on the right hand not medling with the Bulwark it self those in the Bulwark seeing their fellowes distressed fast by left the Bulwark and went to that place The hidden Turks 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 silent over them secretly crawling up the battered walls got in 〈◊〉 before discovered suddenly slaying a few 〈◊〉 Souldier in removing a great piece and overthrowing the Christiań Ensigns which the Turks 〈◊〉 seeing made great hast thorow the Town-Ditch to get into the Bulwark but were so cut off by shot from the flankers that few got up Villerius nothing fearing resolutely scaled the same and Caponus a Spaniard with Menotius a Frenchman breaking in by a Gate not yet bolted whom they 〈◊〉 not they forced to mischief themselves for 〈◊〉 over the walls It was two 〈◊〉 in the enemies possession Villerius leaving there a sufficient number went with the rest where the Spaeniards sore charged by Achimetes had much adoe to hold out who encouraged with his sight valiantly repulsed their enemies It were long to tell the hard fight and adventures at the Avergnoys and Narbonenses stations but the Turks laying slain by heaps Solyman beholding it from his standing made of high Masts and no hope of Victory caused a retreat welcom to both sides to be sounded divers Knights with 150 common Souldiers were slain in this six houres assault and 2000 Turks Solyman was so much offended hereat that falling into a rage especially against Mustapha as an unfaithful Counsellour and chief perswader of that unlucky Warre commanded him to be put forthwith to death in his presence which sudden dreadful doom on so light occasion upon such a man struck such terrour in all present that none durst so much as sigh in pittying his case The Executioner ready Pyrrhus presuming of his great favour 〈◊〉 forth earnestly requested him to spare his life wherewith Solyman was so wrathful and for sending for him to Constantinople that he commanded him to be executed also All the rest seeing the danger fell down at the Tyrants feet craving pardon saying The enemies ground had already drunk too much Turkish blood c. Solyman at this general intercession pausing a little granted them their lives Pyrrhus for his age and wisdom and Mustapha for his Wife 's Solymans Sisters sake once Bostanges his Wife The Turks great Fleet all the while lay before the Haven not doing any thing for the Admiral no man of Warre seeing all fortified durst not try to enter or besiege the Castles suffering also Victual and Ammunition to be conveighed into the City 〈◊〉 though by Achimetes mediation Solyman spared him from a most cruel death yet on the poupe of the Admiral Galley he receiving an 100 stripes with a cudgel was thrust out of office The remembrance of so many unfortunate assaults c. so grieved Solyman that being ready to raise the siege he also lay 〈◊〉 speechless with fainting and a great while alter would not be spoken withall till Abraham his minion recomforted him and perswaded him to continue the siege time working that which the Sword could not suddenly subdue Solyman building a Castle upon Mount Philermus in sight of the City Letters were shot in the while revealing many of Solymans secretest Counsels and promising a great mans revolt which the Rhodians gathered to be Mustapha not forgetting the late injury but tyding coming that Cayerbeius was dead Solyman sent Mustapha to be Governour of Aegypt thereby pleasing him no letters coming into the City after that It now seemed that the Turks purposed by long siege rather than assault to take the Town yet the watchers in their Trenches would sometimes offer the Souldiers on the walls great rewards to yield sometimes threats and would politickly say Solyman desiring onely revenge upon the Latines meant no harm to the Greeks October was now begun Rain Thunder c. and mighty Tempests fell so abundantly that the wearied Turks were now discouraged the Admiral being forced for the Seas roughness to slip his Anchors and run his Gallies on ground In these troubles Achimetes one of his valiantest Captains comforted Solyman promising if he would continue shortly to make open way into the City who thereupon assembling his fainting-Souldiers 〈◊〉 his Pavilion thus 〈◊〉 that he knew what great things they had endured for his honour c. that the threatenings of the Heavens did perswade him to give them leave to lay down Arms but they were first to consider whether it were not a
500000 men and 300 Field pieces but smal ' For why Solyman by destroying the Country purposed to draw the Emperour to Bartel which report was confirmed by Ferdinands Embassidours whom Solyman granted to depart at Gunza with each of them a Velvet Gown and piece of Plate and Letters to Charls and Ferdinand proudly usurping the Titles of many Kingdoms saying he was come into Hungarie to revenge the wrongs they had done to King John his Friend and Vassal and would enter their Country with fire and sword and by God's and Mahomet's power would give them Battel if they durst meet him in one Battel to end that quarrel either by winning or losing the Empire of the World Solyman having a great while sharply assaulted Gunza and still with great loss repulsed He in 4 dayes cast up nigh the Town-ditch two great Mounts of Faggots and earth so high that they over-topped the highest Towers of the Town one was against the face of the Town the other at a corner to flanker the Wall whence he with his shot beat both them on the walls and those who went to and fro in the streets The Town-ditch being filled up and many Defendants 〈◊〉 or wounded the Turks most furiously assaulted the place before shaken the valiant Captain opposing all his strength left but the Turks with their multitude got up the walls with 8 Ensignes whence they had repulsed the Defendants who being all wounded or wearied shrouded themselves under their Pent-houses so that the Walls were now abandoned But such a sudden clamour was make by the Women and Children and other fearful people that the Turks on the Walls thinking the Town full of Souldiers stood as men dismayed whereupon the Defendants began again to shew themselves at whose sight they forsook the Wall and could by no means be brought on again The Town was then defended in all judgement by Gods power not mans strength Solyman exceedingly grieved to see so base a Town hold out so long oft in his rage threatned to leave no signe thereof remaining but Abraham Bassa waited a fit time when his choler was past told him it was not worth his name and greatness to spend his time and Forces upon so smal a Town of no importance by razing whereof he should get neither honour nor profit c. Wherefore 't were more honourable to raise his Siege and calling the Governour to give him the Town as of bounty than to spend so many good men in winning it by force The Bassa so prevailed that the Governour was by a Herauld sent for to Abraham who though grievously wounded yet refused to come to any parley except first assured by sale conduct and good Hostages for his safety and nothing to be exacted unbeseeming his Religion and Honour which stout answer made them think he was still able to hold out the Siege whereupon what he required was forthwith granted So he going forth was by Abraham honourably received and bid sit down by him in his Tent who courteously demanding whether he had recovered his old infirmity which he had when sent Embassadour to Solyman and whether his wounds were dangerous But last of all on what hope he alone had so long and obstinately withstood the mighty Solyman saying he marvelled why he reposed confidence in the bringing King Ferdinand Who modestly answered he was thanks be to God well delivered of his old Disease his wounds being without danger As for his holding out he knew he said it was the duty of a good Souldier valiantly to withstand his enemies nor to be discouraged with any chance of War c. That Ferdinand would ere long be there present with a great Army he not much marvelling he was not relieved before then since many lets might hinder the King's purpose considering Fortune's inconstancy in Martial assairs The Bassa wondring at his courage said Although Solyman might utterly destroy the Town with all therein yet being by nature most honourable and mild and a great lover of valiant men He had commanded him in his Name to give him that Town and all the lives in it as a Reward of his Valour yet so as to swear to him obedience and receive some few Turks into it in token of yielding The Governour knowing 〈◊〉 a third part of 800 Souldiers were left and them sore weakened thought it needful to make his peace in best sort he could and so cunningly used the matter that Abraham was content he should only receive a Captain with 10 Janizaries in at one of the gates for a while courteously entertained and then dismissed though he had neither Germane nor Spaniard then in the Garrison yet he told the Bassa he was much affraid the Turks would be ill intreated by them who deadly hated them So Solyman having layen at that Siege 28 dayes and to his great loss assaulted Gunza 13 times He rose with his Army glad of a little seigned submission for safety of his honour And leaving Vienna on the right hand where was most of the Christian Army he came into Carinthia and so to the River Mura thence to the City Gratia This put all fear out of the Christians minds for that Solyman a little before feared being repulsed at Gunza shunned his enemies at Vienna c. Which disgrace the Turks sought to cover as that Neostat lay betwixt him and Vienua not to be taken without great difficulty nor without danger left behind him Winter also beginning to approach But some were of opinion Solyman understanding that the Germane Princes had joyned Forces with the Emperour 's brought from Spain Italy and the Low-countries which at first he least feared and that the Christian Army great were mostly not inferiour to his best men of War chose rather to take the spoil of the Country with safety than to adventure person and state in a most doubtful Battel While this was doing Cason was sent with 15000 Acanzij to spoil all the Countrey between Danubius and the Alps Wherefore dividing his Horsmen into 3 Companies not far asunder he slew or carried away prisoners a multitude of all sorts of people as he went forcing thousands of men and women to run tied together as fast as their Horses burning down the Villages and in them the children of the Parents so that almost 150 miles every way was covered with smoak and fire within 3 mile of Lintz whence Ferdinand was glad to get to Strabinga to Charls the Emperour This cruel Turk loaded with spoil and prisoners began to return the way he came to Solyman either as he thought at Gunza or Neostat coming towards Vienna but the Christian Captains went out of the Camp to meet with them using such diligence in taking the passages it was impossible they should escape unfought withal 4 troops of Spanish and Italians under Valiant Coue first lighting on them nigh Neostat and charging them were most slain but Cason perceiving how he was on every side laid for the night
many of his Carriages and much baggage with 500 Janizaries and 3 Zanzacks with their Companies near the City Sultania ruined by Tamerlant except the Temples Solyman encamped many dayes expecting that Tamas would come out of the Mountains and give him Battel but he comparing his own strength with his enemie's so retired that Solyman could not learn what was become of him And whilst he lay in those plain fields such a horrid tempest never before seen in the beginning of September fell from the circumjacent Mountains whose tops are alway covered with deep snow with such abundance of rain so eagerly freezing as it fell that the depth of Winter seemed suddenly to be come for the raging winds so swept the snow from the tops of those high Mountains that the Turks lay as buried alive therein most of their Tents being overthrown wherein a huge humber of sick Souldiers and others following the Camp perished Others losing the use of hands and feet for ever through benumming most of their beasts for carriage chiefly Camels being frozen to death Yea Solyman was endangered in his Tent Neither was there any remedy by reason of the night's great darknesse most of their fires being put out by the storm a thing accounted by them ominous They feared also the sudden coming of the enemy till the Sun next morning breaking out revived many ready to dye for cold and discovered the fields clear of enemies Many Turks vainly thought it was brought on them by the Persian Magician's Inchantments Solyman troubled hereat after some refreshment of his men took his way into Assyria Ulemas perswading him chiefly from hopes of taking Babylon its Governour being his friend But Mahometes was not to be won to betray the City Wherefore Solyman resolving to take it by force Mahometes hearing of their coming who thought they would not come so far being neither provided nor beloved fled out of the City Solyman being soon received by the Babylonians It 's called Bagdat not far from old Babylon out of whose ruines it role standing on the River Tygris Solyman according to the old manner received of that Caliph the chief Mahometane Priest and greatly reverenced the Ensigns and Ornaments of the Assyrian Kings bountifully winning the peoples hearts and spending the Winter there Other Cities Babylon being taken unresisted yielded themselves Yea Ambassadours came to him as far as Ormus City famous for great Traffique out of India suing for peace Thus Babylon with Assyria and Mesopotamia became Turkish Provinces in 1534. Solyman after Winter past placed a Beglerbey that is a Lord of Lords and under him divers Sanzacks or Governours for Government causing his Treasurer for the Wars there to be hanged and confiscating all his goods for his unfaithful dealing Solyman being gone to Babylon Tamas returned to Solyman's men there left fleeing away in such haste that all in their custody was left for a prey Solymans Army being much encreased by the coming of the great Bassaes of Caire and Syria with the Sanzacks of Alexandria Judea and Comagena departed by Abraham and Ulemas's perswasion towards Tauris but Tamas too weak to give battel fled from the City into the Hircanian Mountains destroying all as he went and carrying away the Inhabitants Wherefore he sent Ulemas with all his choyse Horsmen to overtake and fight him if possible but after 2 or 3 dayes still finding the Countrey neither yielding forrage nor relief and no hope of overtaking him he in time retired back to Solyman declaring how it was who fretting that Tamas was not to be drawn to battel he marched to Tauris sparing the submitting Citizens lives but giving the City for a prey to his Souldiers They 〈◊〉 king every corner abused the people with all manner of insolence Solyman razing Tamas's most stately Pallace with the Nobles sumptuous Houses and carrying away the best Citizens and beautifullest of all sorts Captives and so returning again towards Mesopotamia destroying all as he went and killing the very Cattel He was scarce past Coim and the Calderan fields but some Persian troops were in his rear taking some baggage and slaying divers sick and stragling Souldiers troubling his whole Army with skirmishes Besides it was noysed that Tamas was coming with a great power of Horsmen and would be at their backs before they could get out of Armenia wherefore he appointed the Bassaes of Caire and Syria with Ulemas to follow him in the rear with 18000 good Souldiers so keeping on till he came to Amida now Caraemida in Mesopotamia Tamas the while return'd to Tauris with a mighty Army hoping to surprize his enemy but finding him gone and the miserable desolation made he with indignation resolved to pursue him going as far as Coim where hearing he was hardly to be overtaken and his Noble Gentlemen being unwilling in their heavy Armor to undertake such a pursuit c. Tamas knowing their reasons were good thought it best to stay there till Delimenthes a Noble man alway most forward offered with 5000 choyse Horsmen to overtake some part of the Turks Army and do some good service which Tamas accepting of greatly commending him and promising reward sent him 〈◊〉 haste away who used such expedition in the nearest way that he overtook those 18000 at Bethlis a famous Town in a pleasant Valley bordering on Mesopotamia with a Garrison'd Castle The Bassaes with Ulemas Solyman being come safe to Amida 〈◊〉 secure in that Valley to refresh their wearied Souldiers which Delimenthes being within a dayes journey of Bethlis by diligent espials understood and determining to assail their Camp the night following he secretly sent to the Captain of the Castle to salley out upon sign given upon that side of the Turks Camp which his design was much furthered by the night's darknesse and the abundance of rain then falling The Persians did such speedy execution amongst the sleepy Turks that the Bassaes Ulemas hardly escaped they being slain by thousands few escaping the sword And of 5 Sanzacks 3 were slain one taken 800 Janizaries being forsaken layed down their weapons and yielded on Delimenthes's his word The Mountain-people also joyning to the Persians revenged their wrongs done them after Aladules's death who had the baggage of the Camp The Turks account that slaughter among their greatest losses in memorial whereof the Persians kept that day Octob. 13. as a solemn Holiday many years Delimenthes returning from the slaughter and loaded with spoils was joyfully received and honourably rewarded This overthrow so daunted Solyman that he resolved to return and no more to prosecute that unfortunate War whose ill event his mother he said more truly presaged than the cold Prophet Mulcarabe being secretly offended with Abraham Bassa At Iconium Barbarussa and Sinan Bassa surnamed the Jew met him by land to shew joy for his Conquest of Mesopotamia and Assyria and to excuse themselves for the losse of Tunis Kingdom which was before the end of the Persian war wrung from Barbarussa and
the Camp who without his leave had private conference with the enemy and discouraging the Army Wherefore Velsius returned to Vicegrade taking the Castle wherein the ancient Crown was kept with lesse losse than he had the lower Town Ere long he marching to Alba Regalis through Perenus it was delivered him garrisoning it for Ferdinand Then he retired to Strigonium and the rather because the rough Germans and Hungarians could not agree together so that Velfius parting them was wounded in the Thigh and Perenus hurt with a stone Winter was also come far on and the Souldiers crying out for pay Wherefore he also sick of the stone billited his men that Winter about the Countrey having new fortified Pesth because 't was reported the Turks on their frontiers were preparing to ayd Buda While Ferdinand was levying his forces the Queen had craved ayd of the Turk 's bordering-Lievtenants who answered they might in no case without expresse Command from Solyman depart from their charges besides Mahometes was overcome by rewards from Lascus in his passage not to stir wherefore she certified Solyman what danger they were in craving his speedy ayd Lascus falling sick by the way sent his Physician before to the great Bassaes chiefly to Lutzis by whom he hoped to obtain his desire but in vain for Solyman besides defending his own right thought it would redound to his great profit and glory if he undertook the protection of the Widow and Fatherless Child in so great distress wherefore he said to the Embassadours that to declare his constancy inseparable from his bounty he would take such course that the Germans should not long rejoyce of the Warres begun and in token of friendship gave them a royal Robe a Buckler with a curious Bosse a Horsemans Mace with a golden handle and a Scimiter with a Scabbard richly set with Stones writing to Ustref and Mahometes speedily to ayd the Queen who if harmed through their cefault it should cost them their heads The Embassadors were scarce gone when Lascus came to Constantinople whose success he understanding yet he proceeded in his business c. But when he often mentioned the Emperour as if he would ayd his Brother with all the power of Germany Solyman was so moved that he was presently imprisoned young Rustan Bassa especially chiding him as worthy of death for offending by his liberal speech so courteous a Prince and as it were mocking the King of Kings requiring friendship while his Master most impudently warred in Hungary Ustreff and Mahometes assembling their dispersed forces by shipping brought them down Savus and Dravus into Danubius for t is hard to perform any great matter by Warre in Hungary without the help of a great Fleet but Danubius was then so frozen on both sides that the middle was scarce open so that the Turks not daring to return were enforced to abide the Winters incredible hardness in their Tents to shew their readinesse their most dear Horses starving for cold and want of meat The Spring coming on in the year of Christ 1541 they entred Hungary with whom Thuraccus the Queens General joyned also the Queen sending presents to the Turks Generalls victualling the Camp and furnishing them with Ordnance for besieging of Cities holden by Ferdinand who took Vacia but badly defended putting many to the Sword and burning the City thence removing to Pesth a Hungarian and a German so vallantly defended the City and the Turks not well relieved with Victuall that they passing Danubius and restoring the Ordnance returned home but in their retiring the Hungarians led by Gnarus slew many Achomates one of their best Captains being one The Turks gone Ferdinand perswading the Emperour not to give over the War so fortunately begun the late supplies for Velsius were sent into Hungary under Lord Regendorffe then gone as farre as Possonium to relieve Pesth unto whom Velsius gave place who joyning with the old Army marched to Buda besieging it Upon a great Hill called Gerard's Mount whose middle was equal with the top of the Castle over against it a great Valley and deep Ditch laying betwixt Regendorffe planted his Battery so shaking a new Tower thereof that it was thought it would fall if it had yet supposed dangerous to assault it having a treble Wall but he sparing the sumptuous Turrets and Galleries of the King's Pallace therein sent to the Queen wishing her to break 〈◊〉 sunder the Bishops Fetters and accept of Ferdinands offer ready to bestow on her a goodly Seigniory honourably to live and bring up her Sonne in safety which if she as a simple Woman and ignorant of her own danger should refuse he would beat down the Pallace about her eares The Bishop answered in her behalf she was not such a fool to exchange the Kingdom of Hungary for the principality of Sepusia scornfully answering him as a very doting and mad old man c. And above all requesting him of private courtesie to discharge his Pieces with a little lesse noyse lest his Sow at home great with Pig terrified should farrow before her time to the great grief of his Guests for he was of a sharp and taunting spirit so contemning the Germans that two being taken burning Houses in the Kings Orchard he hanged two Hoggs on the Gallowes with them Ere long Regendorffe removed to a place called the JEWES GRAVES near Jewes Gate the Bishop quipping him now as a proper wise man who had pitched his Tents in a most fit place among the dead c. But he battering the Walls in two places a great part thereof was beaten down another part overcharged with Earth cast up within side for strengthening it then fell down also to the exceeding dismaying of them in the City which opportunity Regendorffe let slip either through the smoak and dust not well aware or doing all things leasurely and suspiciously and the Germans not so easily brought to a sudden assault as Spaniards Italians and French so that it was deferred night coming fast on till the next morning the Budians the while with incredible diligence rating a rampier instead thereof In the morning they fiercely assaulted it so that Fotiscus with some Companies entering a shattered adjoyning House had almost recovered the top of the Rampier but they of Buda wondrously withstanding the Bishop encouraging and fighting amongst them the Germans were forced to retire above 800 men being lost Perenus being also repulsed but with lesse losse at the breach at the Gate Sabatina Then he began to undermine the City but by countermines was disappointed yet the common people in the City pinched with hunger mutinously cryed out 't was time to yield and end those common miseries but the Bishop shewing but himself in the Market-place as if he would have preached could turn the peevish people which way he pleased After this the City had almost by the treason of one Bornemissa a Lawyer been lost who hating the Bishop for taking part with a Banckrupt Jew against
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
so high as the Captives knees who being long mangled about the legs with his little Scimitar fell down and was with many feeble blows hardly at last slain others heartning the Dwarf on to satisfie the eyes of the disporting Princes This done Solyman sent Embassadours with Presents to the young King 3 fair Horses with Golden-bridles their trappings set with precious stones 3 Robes of cloth of Gold and to the chief Nobles rich Gowns and Gold Chains courteously requesting the Queen to send the young King attended with his Nobility into the Camp and without all fear to hope that all should go well both with her and her son c. That Solyman would alwayes account of her as of his Daughter but he came not to see her as in courtesie he desired because by antient custom the Othoman Kings were forbidden to visit other mens Wives in their Houses c. The Queen answered very doubtfully but the Bishop perswading and instantly requesting her not to give the Turks occasion to suspect her distrust of them by her delay She sent him in Princely swathing cloaths in a rich Chariot with his Nurse and certain great Ladies with almost all the Nobility to whom Solyman had sent presents who was met on the way by Troops of the Turks brave Horsmen and as he passed in the Camp orderly stood the Janizaries of Solymans guard Being brought into the Pavillion Solyman looked on him familiarly talking with the Nurse commanding his Sons Selimus and Bajazet begotten of Roxalana to take him in their arms kiss him in sure token of the love they would bear to him whom they were in time to have their Friend Tributary But Solyman while the Nobles were dining with the Bassaes had commanded certain Companies under colour of seeing the City to take the Gare Sabatina and chief streets which was so quietly and cunningly done that a wary watchman beholding the manner of the Turks going to and fro could scarce perceive how the gate was taken till it was too late The Gate Market-place and chief streets so finely taken the Captains of the Janizaries made Proclamations That the Citizens should without fear keep in their Houses and forthwith to deliver all their Weapons which they did receiving the Turks into their Houses as their unwelcome guests but such was the severity of their Martial Discipline that none was wronged by them in word or deed Solyman hearing of the City thus taken sent the child back unto the Queen but the chief Nobles he retained with him to wit George the Bishop Vicche Thuraccus Verbetius the Chancellour Urbanus Governour of Buda whose minds this sudden and unexpected change troubled the more because the great Bassaes began to pick quarrels with them and as it were to call them to account for all they had done The Queen fearing and grieving by humble Letters requested Solyman not to forget the Faith given and of late confirmed but to send back the Noble men who for their fidelity and valour had well deserved both of him and her This she did by Rustemes Bassa whom she had loaded with gifts sending him a fair Coronet of her own of Orient Pearl and a goodly Jewel set with rich stones a present for his wife Solymans Daughter After which Solyman consulted 4 dayes what order to take with that Kingdom Mahometes advised him to carry the child and all the Nobles to Constantinople and to leave such a Governour in Buda as might put the people out of fear of servitude and bondage yet by degrees to lay on them the Yoke of the Turks Governmeut but Rustemes before corrupted stood wholly upon terms of Honour saying Nothing could be more dishonourable to so mighty a Monarch who had never blemished the glory of his Name than after Victory to break his Faith with a weak Woman and silly Infant whom he had taken upon him to defend but Mahometes of Belgrade then extraordinarily admitted into the Council among the great Bassaes disliked of both the former opinions as too full of Lenity and being asked his opinion delivered it in a mischievous speech saying towards the latter end thereof Every year to take in hand so long and laboursome an expedition of an Army of Horse Foot Artillery and a Fleet of Ships for defence of another man as commonly we do seemeth to be meer madnesse Neither do I think it to stand with the Majesty of the Othoman Emperours thus to be moved every year at the request of a puling Woman crying for help except you think it more profitable and honorable to maintain a defensive than an invasive War wherefore I think it best to turn this Kingdom so oft conquered and defended by Law of Arms like thy Ancestours into form of a Province the Queen I would have sent to her Father and her son brought up in thy Court and instructed in our Religion the Nobility I wish to be slain their Castles razed and all their notablest Families to be carried away into Asia the multitude kept under with good Garrisons to till the ground and inhabit the Cities so shall the Hungarians perceive themselves conquered and the Germans forbear coming into Hungary unless they will hazard both Stiria and Austria But Solyman before he would resolve of so great a matter entred Buda with his two sons Aug. 30. 1541. and in the Cathedral before purified by his Priest offered the first Mahometan-sacrifice in Buda Shortly after he for his own security and Honour as it were moderated their opinions publishing a Decree That Buda should thenceforth be kept with a Garrison of Turks and the Kingdom turned into a Turkish Province the Queen with her son forthwith to depart and live in Lippa a quiet and fertile Countrey beyond the River Tybiscus and near her Fathers borders safely to be conducted thither by Janizaries with all her wealth Wherefore she and her son with mourning and tears detesting inwardly his perfidious dealing departed from Buda The Nobles went with her also who though sorrowful for this unexpected change yet very glad of liberty and safety whereof they had for 3 dayes despaired only Thuraccus was kept in safe custody because he was a martial man and much also hated by the Turks for the hard pursuit of Cason in Austria Ferdinand hearing of this shameful overthrow and that Solyman was coming towards Vienna sent Velsius who never liked of Buda siege to Comara to stay their further flight and gather together the dispersed Reliques of the Army and to comfort the men with hope of new supplies And somewhat to stay Solyman he sent Count Salma and Lithestaine Embassadours with Presents and new conditions of peace The Presents were a high standing Cup of Gold curiously set with rich stones and a wondrous Globe of Silver daily expressing the passing of the Houres the Planets motions the change and full of the Moon the motion of the upper Orbs and that exactly by certain wheels and weights within devised and
with his present power to stay in Italy making shew of returning to help his brother and the while to assure his State in Italy against the French but he answered them sitting in Council If he should then stay in Italy 't would be thought he was for fear of the Turks fled out of Germany c. hoping that Algiers might be won before the seas should grow rough and dangerous which if so falling out he would not much care what the French could do There was a new grudge between him and them about the death of Rinuo the French Embassadour for certain years to Solyman who returning to Constantinople with new instructions from his Master for confirming a further League he was belaid by some old Spanish souldiers upon the River Pádus and slain together with Fregosius or first tortured to get from him the secrets of his Negotiation and then slain Vastius in purgation of his credit offering the combate to any of like quality that durst charge him with the truth thereof but many thought he was worthily served who stirred up the Turks against the Christians discovering to them the Emperours designs but whether well or ill Pope Paul 3d. meeting Charls at Luca could not or would not determine The Emperour there came thrice to talk with him the Pope to him once who not prevailing with him for the appeasing the troubles like to arise betwixt him and the French King perswaded him what he might to employ those Forces in defence of his Brother Ferdinand and Austria if Solyman should pursue his Victory so prevailing little in the greatest publike matters he took his leave returning to Rome Charls the while with some Italian Bands under Columna and Spinula and 6000 Germans came to the Port Lune embarquing his Souldiers in Merchant-ships and 35 Galleys directing their course to the Islands Baleares but were by a sudden tempest brought in sight of Corsica and after 2 dayes tossing to and fro the wind somewhat failing they put into the Haven of Syracusa now Bonifacium Then putting to sea again for those Islands he met with a Tempest from the West more terrible than the first divers Galleys losing their Masts and sayls being glad with extream labour and peril to get into a Harbour of Minorca Thence he passed over to Majorca very glad that Gonzaga Viceroy of Sicily was come with 150 Galleys and ships bringing Victual enough for a long war Mendoza by reason of contrary winds cut over directly with his Spanish Fleet to Algiers so the Emperour by Auria's perswasion hoysed sayl and in two dayes came thither anchoring in order before the City Two Algier-Pyrates not knowing of the Fleet fell into the Bay ere they were aware the bigger Cycada stemmed and sunk the other with wondrous speed got into the Haven Mendoza having passed the Cape of Cassineus saluted the Emperour with all his Ordnance giving knowledge the Spanish Fleet was not far behind which were above 100 tall Ship and of smaller Vessels far more besides the Foot embarqued therein were a great number of brave Horsmen over whom the Duke of Alba commanded These ships could not double the Cape as did Mendoza with his Galleys for it was a dead calm but the billows went yet so high that the Souldiers could not land but they must be washed up to the middle which the Emperour thought not good to put them unto He also staied for the Spanish ships both that with united power he might more strongly assault the City and to commuicate the whole glory of the action with them at whose request forwardnesse and greatest charge he undertook it which did not only disturb an assured Victory but opened a way to all the ensuing calamities The Emperour sent a Messenger to Asan the Eunuch born in Sardinia and brought up from a youth in the Mahometan superstition by Barbarussa whom he left to keep his Kingdom in his absence requiring him forthwith to deliver the City to Charls the mighty Emperour come in person to be revenged on those horrible Pirates which if he would do the Turks should depart whither they would the Moors to abide with goods and Religion as formerly himself to receive great rewards in peace and war so he would accept of that the fairest occasion to return again to the worshipping of the true God and to enjoy the favour of the Emperour and to revenge himself of Barbarussa's unnatural villany on his person who answered he thought him mad that would follow his enemies Counsel grinningly asking him Upon what hope the Emperour trusted to win the City the Messenger pointing to the Fleet told him That which thou seest c. who scornfully laughing replyed And we with like force valour will defend it and make this place famous for your overthrows here twice the 3d. time most famous by the Emperour's discomfiture It s reported there was an old Witch in Algiers who had foretold the shipwrack and miseries of Verra and Moncada prefixing a time when the Christian Emperour besieging the City should receive a great losse by Sea and Land which Assan so fed and augmented that he not only encouraged his own men but terrified the weaker sort of his enemies therewith they being on so dangerous a coast nigh Winter There was in Garrison but 800 Turks the other multitude of natural Moors and those born in Granado scarce made 5000 to whom was joyned many rebellious fugitives who fled thither out of the Baleares But the wild Numidians made up a great number which should molest the Christians in the open fields Assan having allured the brutish people of the Countries thereabouts to ayd him for rewards and hope of spoyl proposing also pain of death to any who should but look out heavily or speak a word savouring of fear The Emperour after a convenient and soon landing of his Souldiers with plenty of Boats and a little resting of them divided his Army which was about 20000 Footmen besides Horsmen and other Volunteers into 3 equal Battels and 3 Field-pieces to a Battel to terrifie the Numidian Horsmen still ready to charge them if upon advantage He encamped nigh the City between 2 deep Ditches that none could well passe but by Bridge and fastby on the left hand was a Hill whence it seemed the City might well be battered Algiers is like a Triangle fast by the sea having a Haven neither great nor safe from the North-wind the Houses farther off standing in seemly order on the rising of a steep Hill as it were by degrees most beautiful to behold The Emperour was in great hope to win the City and the rather because while he assaulted it on the East-side his ships and galleys on the North might with Ordnance beat the enemy all along the wall Nigh the Hills-rising lay the Spaniards in the midst of the Germans with the Emperour in the plain nighest the sea the Italians All that day the Ordnance was landing and the Horses shipping 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
strong Wall with a deep ditch alwayes full of water was hardly to be besieged wherefore a great number of people fled into it with their Cartel as into a most sure hold There was two German Companies and 200 Horsemen with 500 Hungarian Horsemen who living by robbing are infamously called Usarous Tornicllus the Italian sent in four Companies of Italians the most forward in that service Then came Borcocius Captain of the King's Guard with a Company of Horse as Generall who no sooner come but news was brought of Solyman's approach wherefore he convened the Captains with Birrous the Mayor and other chief Citizens what was best to be done but chiefly whether the Suburbs were to be destroyed or not that the City might with lesse labour and danger be defended This question was seriously debated and great reasons alledged on both sides at last the Citizens cryed out with one voice against the matter of which opinion was Serofactus an Italian Captain saying both City and Suburbs might with like danger be defended since both were equally fortified with the Marish and at the worst the Defendants might safely retire into the City at last standing up he said 〈◊〉 Gentlemen what shew will you give of your valour c. If you shall defend so famous a City by deforming it your selves c. before the danger Verily ye shall do nothing c. un ess this City if God please be of you whole and sound valiantly defended Hereupon they all rose the wiser yielding to the 〈◊〉 of the simple Barcocius also setting a good coun enance on that which liked him not declared to the Souldiers the reasons thereof exhorting them with the like valour to answer that honourable 〈◊〉 promising to provide all necessaries for a Victory and 〈◊〉 those deserving of great rewards The Suburbs were quickly fortified the Ordnance conveniently planted and Watch and Ward kept by turns day and night The Turks bent their forces onely against the Suburbs of the Gate towards Buda because the Lake was there driest and the ground sandy more unfit for Fortifications Barcocius drew all the Italians and Germans into the Suburbs of that Gate leaving the Countrey people in their places At first they sallying out made light skirmishes for three dayes without any great harm on either side but Solyman himself being come and besetting the City far and near with his Tents they shut up the Gates and sallyed no more out wherefore the Hungarian Usarons that they might not be coupt up as they termed it asking-leave for fashion sake by night departed though entreated to stay escaping thorow the Woods from the enemy The Turks the while being come with Winding Trenches within shot so scoured the top of the Bulwark that none could appear but he was wounded the Ordnance also soon battered asunder the Planks and Timber which kept in the sandy mould and the shot flying quite thorow slew and wounded many far off the Asapi the while in 12 dayes making a way to passe over to the Bulwark and Suburbs with Earth and Wood brought thereby in 600 Wagons thought impossible to have bin done The Ditches 〈◊〉 filled up the Turks sought by force to enter the Bulwark first the Asapi then the Horsemen now on foot covering the Janizaries who on their knees with Harquebusses sore gauled the Defendants they fought above 3 houres with equal hope but the Turks still 〈◊〉 afresh gained the uttermost Bulwark yet the Italian Fort was valiantly defended the Women and religious helping and a tall Hungarian Woman thrusting in upon the top of 〈◊〉 Fort struck off two Turks Heads with a Sithe at one blow This assault was Aug. 29. on which day they took Belgrade and slew King Lewis hoping to take the City then as on a fortunate day but they were forced to retire Solyman 〈◊〉 sharply reproved Abraham Achomates and Halis because the Bulwark being won they had not more couragiously prosecuted the Victory c. sternly commanding them to prepare for a fresh assault within 3 dayes uever to return to him without winning the City who answered They would in short time accomplish his desire and encouraging the Souldiers they terribly assayled the Rampires and through a thick mist they got up to the top thereof with great silence coming to handy blows ere they were well discovered The fight was for the time terrible but the Janizaries at length put the Germans then the Italians to a hasty flight which 〈◊〉 availed seeing they were to passe thorow a little narrow Gate and they in the City without regard of them that fled had plucked up the draw-Bridge over the Ditch so the Turks pursuing them all along those Suburbs many notable men some fighting some fleeing were slain Serosactus being one Barcocius fleeing to the little gate not to be passed thorow on Hors-back and crying in vain to have the great Gate opened was by the Janizaries slain whose Head and right-hand full of Rings was carried about in derision on a Launce The rest finding the little gate shut up with dead bodies and the Bridge drawn up threw themselves into the Ditch where some taken hold of by others that could not swim were drowned together Some hardly crawling over were shotwith arrows others sticking in the mud were shot to death also some few got over were saved The General of the German-Horse and Uscasades an Italian gathering the remainder placedthem on the Walls but Birrous the Aldermen and others were now so overcome with despair that they thought of no hope but in the mercy of Solyman wherfore Birrous spake from the Wall safely to send to Solyman to treat upon reasonable conditions of surrender which Achomates easily granted The General of the German Horse and Rufus an Italian the most valiant men in all the assaults went with the Embassadours who requested upon yielding for their lives and Liberties who so answered as that it seemed all should not be pardoned Rufus easily obtained the Italians to depart with bag and baggage to Vienna so did the German General for his Rufus refusing to serve Solyman as bound by oath to Ferdinand Solyman Bassa gave him a rich Cloak in Honour of his Valour The Embassadours returning and telling their successe freed the Citizens of a great fear The City yielded Achomates openly proclaimed the Italians and Germans to be ready to depart next day and to beware that no Hungarian went with them the Citizens also to keep their Houses till they were departed whom Homares faithfully defended against the roaming Tartars losing nothing but their dags carried at the Germans saddle-bow The Turks delighting to see them shot off with a Fire-lock as a Novelty but they after Homares departure had hot skirmishes with the Hungarians in their passage being rescued from danger by the Kings Garrisons which remainder came to Vienna more like ghosts than men Solyman entring the City and visiting the King's Sepulchres proclaimed the Hungarians should not fear for he came not to
he would not shew an enemies mind by denial of a little sea Furniture lest he should have hurt his Native Country Genua But Muleasses hearing of Barbarussa's coming with this great Fleet doubted not without cause lest it was prepared against himself Besides five of his great Cities Constantina Mahemedia Mahometa Leptis and Adrumentum were then holden by the Turks Wherefore about the time that he sayled along Italy himself passed into Sicily to have met the Emperour at Genua for greater ayd against the Turks committing the tuition of his Kingdom to Mahometes Manifaet to Govern the City Corsus or Fares to keep the Castle whose brother Mahometes and son Fares were left pledges to Tavarres Captain of Guletta-Castle of his Faith but to his son Amiva he committed the leading of his men of War Passing out of Sicily he was driven by contrary winds at length to Naples being Honourably entertained by the Viceroy The Citizens wondring at his people's strange Attire with their costly Dishes putting therein Odours of exceeding price so that a Peacock and two Fea sants dressed cost above 100 Duckats all dwelling near partaking of the smell While he abode at Naples the Emperour from Buxetum so willing him attending what course Barbarussa disappointed at Nice would take he was advertised out of Africk that Amida his son possessing his Kingdom had slain his Captains polluted his Wives and taken Tunis-Castle Wherefore Muleasses exceedingly troubled with all haste opened his Coffers entertaining Souldiers the Viceroy giving leave to all banished men to come and give their name to go into Africk whereupon a great number of Malefactors and condemned persons flocked to Naples of which infamous men one Lofredius of a fierce and covetous disposition undertook the leading who having three moneths pay before hand leavying 1800 men and keeping most of their pay passed over with the King into Africk Amida rose up against his Father by means of certain Noblemen about him who ruled him at their pleasure the chief was Mahometes son of Bohamer Manifaet in the Raign of Muleasses's Father whom Muleasses reigning slew by cutting off his privities for deceiving him of Rahamana a maid of exceeding beauty whom he most passionately loved for which Mahometes had long conceived a dissembled deadly hatred against him Next was Mahometes Adulzes whom Muleasses used to call his worst servant These two with others gave out that Muleasses was dead having first revolted to Christianity perswading him quickly to enter into his Fathers seat lest Mahometes his younger Brother in Hostage at Guletta should by the hélp of 〈◊〉 be preferred before him for he was 18 years old resembling every way his Grandfather and therefore best beloved of those of Tunis Wherefore 〈◊〉 came in post to 〈◊〉 to lay first hand on the Kingdom The people as yet hearing not of his Fathers death marvelled at his rashnesse Mahometes the Governour sharply reproved him of Treason perswading him to return to the Camp and seeing him stay thrust him out of the City who got him into the pleasant Countrey of Martia but the Governour got him speedily to Touarres to know more assuredly if there were Newes from Sicily of the Kings death complaining of Amida where staying somewhat long and then returning the Voyce went he had practised with Touarres to make Mahometes King whereby some Citizens hating the very name of Muleasses speedily certified grieving-Amida how all stood c. Who now revived and encouraged by his followers returned to Tunis and entring in at the open Gate ran to the Governour 's House who not at home he slew all his Houshold going presently to the Castle Where Fares the Captain laying hands on his Horses-bridle to keep him out was by an Aethiopian thrust thorow with a sword over whose sprawling body Amida riding brake into the Castle with his followers where he slew the Governour of the City after which murdering his yonger brethren he polluted his Fathers Concubines Muleasses landing at Guletta was advised by Touarres not to go to Tunis with so few men before assurance of the Citizens good disposition toward him being the more earnest with Lofredius because the Viceroy had written he should in no case go further except the the King as he promised had also a good strength of 〈◊〉 but some Moorish Nobles fleeing under a colour out of the City putting their swords to their throats and swearing to be faithful 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 them forward saying 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 of his Father would flee so they 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 with 〈◊〉 displayed Touarres requesting 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of the Moors treachery Muleasses being now descryed from the Walls a strong Troop suddenly 〈◊〉 out with a terrible cry and a fierce assail many falling on both sides Muleasses fighting couragiously was wounded in the face bleeding exceedingly whose men doubting of his life fled a great number of Horse and Foot suddenly besetting Lofredius round out of the Olive Gardens on whom the Italians discharged some Field-pieces but had no leisure to charge again they coming on so thick and fast so the Italians discouraged let fall their Weapons and cast themselvs into the Lake to save themselves by swimming and taking hold of small Boats which furnished with small Pieces did repulse the Moores pursuing them into the Lake with their Horses Lofredius was unhorsed in the Lake andslain as were divers with him A few chose rather to die in midst of their enemies than to be strangled in the stinking Lake Muleasses soyled with blood and dust was taken nothing bewraying him more than his odours 1300 Italians were slain Touarres relieving the rest shipped them into Sicilie who came to Naples exceeding poor Amida victorious cut out his Fathers eyes with a hot Pen knife to make him unfit for Government so he served his two Brethren taken with him Then he certified Touarres he would deliver to him a few youths taken prisoners that he had bereaved his Father of his sight deserving worse as having done the like to his Brethren c. confirming upon conditions his Fathers League with him which Touarres refused not as profitable at present for he was to give him money to pay his Souldiers to deliver the prisoners with the Ensigns and body of Lofredius giving Sehites his Son nine years old in hostage for more assurance yet Touarres safely to restore him if they must needs enter into War but Touarres thought it not wholly agreeing with the Emperours honour that he should enjoy the Kingdom who treasonously and villanously had thrust himself thereunto without his leave Wherefore there being among the Numidians one Abdamaelech an exile ever since Roscetes fled to Muleasses's Brother Touarres 〈◊〉 for him putting him in hope of the Kingdom supported by 〈◊〉 a great Numidian Prince who had long 〈◊〉 him he was encouraged also by predictions of Astrologers who foretold him he should die King of Tunis Amida was gone to Biserta casting no peril to take order for his Customs there great
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
the Childs neck it swiled on him and lifting it self up as it could offered to embrace his neck and kisse him whereat the stony-hearted man fell down in a swound lay for dead The Eunuch standing without the Chamber and marvelling at his long stay goes in where finding the Ruffian on the ground strangled the guiltlesse child himself So long as it was uncertain what success Bajazets attempts would have Solyman spared the Infant lest upon his good hap he might seem to strive against the will of God but his Father being dead and his quarrel by the ill success condemned as it were by the Sentence of the Almighty he though not good to suffer him longer to live lest of an ill Bird might come an ill Chick for the Turks judge all to be well or ill done by the good or bad success though brought to passe or endeavoured by never so bad or good means as appeared by a Chiaus in his talk with the Author of this History who justified Solyman's Father but exclaimed against Bajazet This Year 1558. the Emperours Charls 5th who had 2 years before delivered all his Haereditary Dominions to his son Philip on Febr. 24. the day of his birth by his Embassadours resigned the Empire to his brother Ferdinand requesting the Electours to confirm him therein which they did March 13. following so as a private man in a solitary life whereto he had certain years before retired himself He died Sept. 21 after living 58. and raigning 39 years About which time also died Mary Queen of Hungarie and Eleanor the French Queen his Sisters The Knights of Malta had at length so prevailed with the Pope and King of Spain for recovery of Tripolis in Barbary and the Island Zerbi betwixt Tripolis and Tunis then also surprized by the Turks whence they much troubled the Christians that the King made ready a great Fleet in Septemb. 1559. unto which the Pope Duke of Florence the said Knights and others joyned their Forces there being 100 Galleys and ships met together in Sicily Gonzaga being General but whilst they wintred in the Haven of Marza-Moxet in Malta many Souldiers died Spring being come the Captains consulted whether first to set upon Tripolis or Zerbi otherwise Mening The Knights thought best to besiege Tripolis speedily before Dragut should come to furnish it Others rather first to invade Zerbi Island where the Army might be relieved with plenty and whence they might in danger safely retire thence go to Tripolis as time should serve Which most agreeing to in Feb. 1560. they sailed to Zerbi Dragut the while being come to Tripolis with 800 Janizaries had also notably sortified the City certifying Solyman of the Christians Fleets arrival who at their first landing on Zerbi were encounted by the Moors whom they repulsed and landed at pleasure It is not far from the main no River in it but boggs ond Marshes and somewhat Hilly in the middle About 30000 men inhabited it dwelling in low Cottages yet is the Island reasonable fertile The Christians sent for Carvanus thither a poor King from whom Dragut had taken it to use his Counsel going with 8000 to besiege the strongest Castle in the Island they lighted on 10000 Moors which lay in ambush in a Wood 700 of whom being slain in skirmish by the Spaniards who went foremost the rest fled so laying hard siege to the Castle the Captain fled secretly with his Turks leaving it for the Moores to defend who to depart in safety yielded the Castle three Spanish Companies being there left Caravanus the Moor-King with the King of Tunis's Sonne came the while to the Camp sitting on the ground and wisely discoursing with the Generall how the Turks were to be removed out of Africk but suddenly a Pinnace brought newes that Piall the Turk's Admirall was coming with 85 Galleys more repairing to him daily with a number of the Turk's best and most approved Souldiers for the Turks had a great opinion of the valour of the Spaniards they were doubtful also of the long journey so many of them before setting forth making their wills so that all Constantinople was in a confused fear The Christians were not a little troubled hereat yet they new fortified the Castle agreeing with the chief Moore in the Island who had set up the King of Spain's Ensigns instead of Draguts to pay yearly tribute to the King as before to Dragut 6000 Crowns 1 Cammell 4 Ostriches 4 Sparrow-Hawks and 4 blew Faulcons But May 9th the Master of Malta gave those at Zerbi to understand that the Turk's Fleet was even at hand advising them to get them to some more safe place or come to him for fear of being by so great a power oppressed whereupon Auria the Admirall requested the Generall presently to come aboard but he for all that stayed at the Castle where they had built four strong Bulwarks not yet all perfectly finished but whilest he is thus busie next day descrying the Turks from far he hasted to be gone with the Admiral and was twice by a contrary wind driven again into the Haven so that with much adoe they got into the Castle for the wind brought the Turks so fast on that the Christians dismayed knew not well which way to turn but most of the Ships and 14 Gallies were gone the night before and the Master of Malta had called home his in April of the rest some few Galleys escaped others ran aground 10 whereof were taken by the Turks and the rest that were left though they awhile did what they might to save themselves The night following the Viceroy and Admiral secretly got away to Malta Auria gathered together the remainder of the dispersed Fleer having lost 17 Galleys and a good part of the Ships Don de Sandes was left as General in the Castle with 5000 Foot some Germans and Italians but most Spaniards besides 1000 no Souldiers The Turks besieging it May 17. were notably encountred and repulsed in their assaults Dragut came at length to the siege encreasing the battery with 15 great Pieces The Christians also with 40 great Pieces slew a number of Turks and Moores and sallying out fought with them slaying and wounding many Thus the siege continued three moneths but in the Castle was but one great Cistern which though yielding some store of water yet was not enough to suffice so great a multitude in that hot Clymate and season but was sparingly measured our to the Souldiers as far as it would go which some augmented by distilling Sea-water mingling it with their allowance till they had spent all their Wood. Many half dead lying on the ground gaping and crying water water into whose mouthes if any one powred a little they as revived would sit up till for thirst they fell down again at length giving up the Ghost The Governour considering the great extremity attempted with Doude Leyva the Neopolitan Admiral and Bellingerius the Sicilian Admiral and others to escape by
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
telling him he had seen the signs of safe landing he next day returned again to Gaulos On which day a Christian captive fled to St. Angelo and told Valetta the Turks would prove their last fortune in astaulting Michaels Castle next day and if they had not answerable success forthwith to be gone Mustapha promising 5 Talents of Gold to those who first advanced their Ensigns on the Walls and promote them higher and to reward the rest according to their desert Valetta first gave thanks to God for such discoveries from time to time then preparing necessaries for repulsing the enemy but the Turks all that day battered the new City and the shipping in the Haven sinking one great ship Garzias in the morning arrived at Malta landing his Forces and going forward with them about half a mile instructed the chief Commanders what was to be done all things to be in the King of Spain's name but till they came to the Great Master So exhorting them to play the men he left them marching to Melita in sight whereof he came with all his Fleet they of the City discharging all their Ordnance which was answered from the Fleet twice Then he returned into Sicily to take in the Duke of Urbins companies and some Spanish Bands and so to return to attend the Turks Fleet 's departure as good as half overthrown Assoon as the Turks heard the Army was landed there arose a wondrous confusion among them some crying Arm arm and others To be gone the greatest number burning the Engines and Fortifications with all speed embarqued their Ordnance and baggage which they in St. Angelo perceiving sallyed out without command to Burmola where some Turks fleeing from a huge piece of Ordnance which they kept they drew it within their Walls and had the new-come Forces charged the enemy as they disorderly ran to their Galleys perhaps they had found occasion of Victory or taken most of their Artillery but they thought it not convenient to leave the things brought for relief of the besieged which for roughnesse of the way and want of Horses were hardly carried Sept. 11. a Genuan fugitive came in haste telling Valetta that 1000 Turks were marching to meet with the Christians on the way whereupon he sent Souldiers to St. Elmo Castle to set upon an Ensign of the Order who found 24 great Peeces which they could not for haste remove Mustapha being landed from Marza Moxet at St. Paul's Port with 7000 men by the Fleet and being falsly informed the Christians were not above 3000 marched toward Melita and at the rising of a Hill both Armies meeting gave a great shout the formost beginning Battel a few being slain on both sides but the Christians growing on them in number and strength they fled the Christians killing of them to their Galleys where striving who to get in first about 400 were drowned besides 1800 slain The Turks lay in the Haven all next day and most of the night following and upon shooting of a great piece hoysed sayl leaving Malta sore wasted losing in all about 24000 most being their best Souldiers About 5000 Christians were slain besides 240 Knights honourably buried The Turks spending 78000 great shot in battery All things considered a man shall scarce find a place these many years more mightily impugned or with greater valour and resolution defended Valetta thus acquitted commanded publike prayers with thanksgiving to be made to the giver of all Victory then rewarded the Valiant commended the rest thanked all relieved the sick and wounded bewailed the spoil provided for reparation of Breaches c. And yet in all this was not secure but because of the great harms and the enemies return next year feared He by Letters to divers Princes chiefly to the grand Priors of the Order in divers Countries requested help containing also briefly in his Letter to George grand Prior of Germany and founder of Elmo Castle what hath been largely written in this History And being bountifully relieved by those he wrote to he both repaired and with Fortifications strengthened places subject to the enemies force Solyman exceeding angry with the Governour of Chios Island who during the siege had intelligence with Valetta revealing many of the Turk's designs also for detaining 2 years Tribure 20000 Duckats and not sending his wonted Presents to the Bassaes commanded Piall to prepare his Fleet and take that Island into his own hand who April 15 1566. with 80 Galleys there arrived Whereupon the chief men sent him Embassadours with presents offering him the Haven and whatever he should require who kindly accepting thereof and landing sent for the Governor and 12 Citizens as if he had some special matter to confer about from Solyman before he went thence for Malta or Italy who coming to him with great fear he cast them into Irons the Souldiers taking the Town-Hall pulling down the Towns-Ensign having in it St. George with a Red-crosse and setting up one of the Turks and so was it thorow the whole Island Then rifling the Temples they consecrated them after their manner The Governour and Senators with their Families were sent to Constantinople the vulgar to tarry there or depart So Piall placing a Turkish Governour and a strong Garrison departed from that fertile Island for Italy burning and destroying the Villages along Apulia and carrying the people into captivity so returning John the Vayuod of Transilvania grieved with the harms from the Emperours Captains whereof he was the cause and vainly hoping from Solyman to have most part of Hungarie calling himself King thereof ceased not to solicite him to come personally to make a full Conquest summoning the Nobility and Burgesses as if by Solymans appointment to meet at Thorda March 9. about matters for the common good which Swendi the Emperours Lievtenant hearing counter-manded them perswading the Hungarians not to listen to the Vayuods and Turks charms tending to destruction but to obey Maximilian who purposed to protect them in peace Hence it was that the remainders of this sore-shaken Kingdome divided began afresh to work each others confusion serving the Turks for a further encroachment who then surprized Ainastch in the Captain and some of the Souldiers absence putting all to the sword but they were by valiant Serinus at Sigeth after 4 hours hard fight overthrown and put to flight not long after they ranged up and down fetching in booty and doing much harm Wherefore Maximilian appointed his Captains to raise such Forces in Germany as were lately granted him by the Princes and States of the Empire at Augusta going himself to Vienna for Solyman was set forward with a mighty Army and come to Belgrade where the Vayuod of Transilvania met him kissing his Hand and commending himself and all his State to his protection Then did Swendi hardly besiege Husth in the borders of Transilvania and the Bassa of Buda on the other side besieging Palotta had by 8 days continual battery greatly endangered it though valiantly
some short Weapon in their sleeve yet were they not all thus groped who kneeling down and kissing the hem of his Garment he not daining to give them a look they were led back again going backwards till out of his presence and then the Embassadors delivered to Selymus the Emperours Letters briefly declaring to him their Message who answered in four words Confer with my Bassaes and presently they were dismissed and coming out of the two inner-Gates they mounted on Horseback toward their Lodging being accompanied with the Aga and his Janizaries Among whom were certain of their Religious called Haagi who use to follow the Janizaries continually turning about and in their going singing or rather howling out Psalms and Prayers for the welfare of their great Sultan Many more also on Horseback attended their forth-coming The Embassadors to requite their greedy courtesie distributing among them above 4000 Dollars and yet not well contented them The Embassadors after this having divers times conference with the great Bassaes concerning peace they among other unreasonable requests demanded to have their Subjects freed from paying any Taxes or Tributes unto their old Lords living in the Emperour's jurisdiction in Hungary and yet the Emperour's Subjects to pay their Lords in the Turks jurisdiction as formerly to which the Embassadors would by no meanes consent till they knew Maximilian's further pleasure therein whereupon they dispatched one Odoardo a Mantuan who had been employed divers times from Vienna to Constantinople in the Emperour's service Selymus Octob. 20. departed in great magnificence to Hadrianople after whose departure the Embassadors having fully viewed the City embarqued and crossed the mouth of the Haven betwixt Constantinople and Pera passing all along the Coast on Europe side unto the 〈◊〉 Sea and back again by the other side thereof noting the great ruines of the Cities of Bythinia with others along the Asian shoare with their former pleasant scituation and so returned but while they lay long expecting their own Messengers return and of Selymus himself they were advertized in haste to repair to Hadrianople whither the Messenger was now come with full instructions who setting forward Jan. 1. 1568. arrived at Hadrianople about 153. Italian miles from Constantinople after nine dayes and Febr. 17. the peace was concluded whose chief capitulations were that both Princes should hold what they had got each from other the Emperour to pay 30000 Duckats yearly Tribute to the Turk for Hungary to begin January last 1568 that either Subjects should be free from the payments aforesaid and so firm a peace to be betwixt the two Monarchs for 8. years wherein the Vayuod as the Turks Tributary was to be included Yet the Turks raising sundry Cavillations and many doubts did what they might to have somewhat altered what they had agreed upon and with many unreasonable demands stayed the Embassadors till March 20 following and then with Hebraim Beg Selimus's Embassador to the Emperour they returned to Vienna May 10th with joyful newes of peace being two dayes after most honourably received at Court five dayes after which Hebraim had audience who well rewarded soon returned with a full conclusion of peace But whilest the Embassadors were resident at Hadrianople February 16th came an honourable Embassage from 〈◊〉 the Persian King to Selimus to entreat or rather to conclude a peace with him before agreed upon controversies for which they afterwards fell to open Warres He was with the greatest pomp entertained by the Turks at his first coming to Hadrianople who seeing some of the Emperours Embassadours Retinue before their door asked of the Capitzi Bassa what people they were Who told him they were the followers of the Christian Emperours Embassadour who was desirous to make peace with his Master the Embassadour replyed he would willingly salute them the Capitzi turning his Horse toward the place the Emperours Embassadour went forth upon the Threshold and so they with signes and words saluted each other He said also he would gladly talk with them if it might please the Grand Seignior but they never after came together Two dayes after his Steward presented all the Visier Bassaes with divers rich Gifts and Presents and the day after going to visit them himself a Giamoglan meeting him shot at him with a Harquebusse but missed him hurting one of his followers in the Arm He supposed he was betrayed turned his Horse to go to his Lodging but the chief Visier sent out his men to guard him and excuse himself of the fact so he held on his way The fellow being apprehended was asked by the Bassa before the Embassadour why he did it why boldly answered because the Embassador was an Heretique and sent from an Heretical King and an enemy to their Religion Wherefore 't was not meet he should come to treat with his Lord of peace adding he was not worthy of any peace Wherefore the Bassa adjudged him next day to be drawn at a Hors-tail thorow the City then to have his right hand cut off and afterward his Head which was done Febr. 22. he went to deliver the Presents sent to Selimus and to kiss his Hand sending them before upon 34 Camels of the Persian King and 10 of his own There was an Alcaron with the Anthority of Hali for they alwayes present one such Alcoran to whom they send Embassadours It was rich with Gold and precious Stones also a rich Book of Histories a Box with a very fair precious Stone call'd Balasso and 2 wondrous great Pearls with 2 purses of a handful-long full of Jewels 8 Firvari or China dishes 2 most stately Pavillions 20 great silk Carpets many other less of Silk and Gold also 9 fair Canopies to hang over the ports of their Pavillions 9 very fair Carpets of Camels-hair 9 Saddles set with stone after their fashion 7 Staves of silver 7 Scimitars with red Scabberds 7 Bowes with Arrows and Quivers richly wrought also many other Carpets called Testich of the finest Lawn 7 men could scarce carry one of them all the Faulcons died by the way In his own name he gave an Alcoran a large and fair Pavillion Scimitars rich Bowes and Arrowes some Carpets of Silk and Camels-hair After which and reverence done to the Sultan by him and 30 of his followers in cloath of Gold he returned to his Lodging very Honourably accompanied both by the Turk's and his own retinue and although the Persians as may be thought shewed all their pomp yet they made nothing so fair a shew as the Turk's nor are they so fair but most of a swart and brown colour and rather little men than otherwise not much unlike the Spaniards Selimus allowed for their ordinary charges 500 Duckats a day their number being great and their beasts many which expences do begin assoon as Embassadours do enter into the Sultans Dominions and end assoon as their businesse is finished He having concluded a peace beewixt Tamas and Selimus ere long returned into Persia. The Venetians
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
ships 50000 Foot 4500 Horse with necessaries proportionable yearly to be ready in March or April at farthest to meet at an appointed place in the East to be employed as the state of things required The King of Spain to defray half the charge the Venetians 2 parts of the other half and the Pope a third which if too heavy for him then the Spaniard to bear 3 parts of that left by him undischarged and the Venetians 2. Victuals was also to be taken up at a reasonable price in any of their Dominions where the Forces should stay yet the Spaniard was first to Victual Guletta Malta and his own Navy out of Naples and Sicily Also if the Spaniard should when there was no common War invade Algiers Tripolis or Tunis the Venetians to ayd him with 50 well appointed Galleys he likewise to ayd them when by the Turks invaded But if the Roman Territory should be invaded then both to the utmost of their power to defend it and the Pope's person and in managing the confederate war what most of the 3 Admirals should agree upon to be reputed as agreed by all That Don John of Austria Charls 5. his son should command in chief all the Forces but to display the common Ensign Also all places except Tunis Algiers and Tripolis gained from the Turk to be divided among the Confederates the Pope to decide all controversies of the Generals to whom the Venetians should lend 12 Galleys which the Pope should supply with men and Victuals and deliver as they were at the end of the War That Maximilian the French King the Polonian and Portugal should have a place to enter into the League whom with other Christian Princes it should beseem him to stir up in so good a quarrel None of the Confederates to treat of peace or enter a League without the others consent Every Autumn their Embassadours being at Rome to consult of the next years Wars and determine whether their Forces were to be encreased or diminished This League was in June with great pomp and triumph proclaimed in Rome Venice and Spain The Venetians in the mean time tryed if they could stir up Tamas the Persian King against The Turk whom he exceedingly hated for the difference about their Religion and for manifold injuries sustained One Alexander a Secretary of State escaping lately out of prison at Constantinople being for his several Accomplishments thought fittest for so great a matter who thorowly furnished and instructed came to Moncastron in Turkish Attire a Port-town at the mouth of the River Borysthenes embarquing for Trapezond but was driven by a contrary wind to Sinope whence he travelled to Cutai keeping on the left hand because he would not fall upon the Turks Army marching thorow all those Countries yet he fell on a part thereof but being taken for a Turk he thorow Rocks and Forrests arrived at length at Erzirum a Frontier City of the Turks His journey was vented at Constantinople by a Spie who as a friend haunted the Venetian Embassadours House at Pera Whereupon Currours were speedily to beset the 3 straight passes into Persia with his favour stature c. But he fearing such a thing leaving his Company posted to Tauris whom the Courrours followed as far as they durst At Tauris Alexander hearing the Court lay at Casbin about 12 miles Journey he came thither Aug. 14. 1571. meeting with English Merchants of his acquaintance by whom he got to speak with Aider the Kings third son learning of them also the fashions of the Court and how to bear himself therein The Persians through the intolerable heat doing most business then by night Alexander about midnight declared to Aider the cause of his comming and next day to his Father delivered his Letters of credence declaring to him in the Senate's name how perfidiously Selimus was about to take away Cyprus from them with what greediness and pride he had set upon the Christians and that discharged of that war he would in all likelyhood set upon the Persians through an ardent and insatiable desire of Soveraignty Then setting forth the prowess of the Christians and their wondrous preparation both at sea and Land he perswaded the King with all his power to invade the Turk now wholly busied in the Wars of Cyprus using divers motives and arguments The King willingly heard him saying He would consider what to do A fair House and a bountiful Allowance being appointed for him and his followers who also requested the Nobles who feasted him oft to be Mediatours to the King therein who had a son called Ismael whom he kept in durance for making in-roads into the Turks Frontiers to the disturbance of his League with Solyman he fretting and languishing for very grief of revenge upon the Turks wished to Alexander that either his Father had his mind or he the powre of a King and that if ever he obtained the Kingdom he would shew what he then thought While the matter went slowlier on than the Embassador would have had it news was brought to Court of a great Victory obtained by the Christians of the Turks at 〈◊〉 Whereat Alexander solicited the King more earnestly than before but he then troubled with the rebellion in Media or weary of former Wars with the Turks answered him Since the Christians had made a perpetual League among themselves he would for 2 years 〈◊〉 the event and then as occasion served resolve on peace or war Which improvidentact brought afterwards a too late Repentance unto the whole Persian Kingdom all the calamities which the Senate foretold redounding in few years to the shaking thereof Mustapha furnished with all necessaries for his siege and Souldiers daily repairing to him besides great supplies brought by Haly from Constantinople being thought to have 200000 men in his Army In April drew nearer to Famagusta casting up Trenches and Mounts so high against it that the Defendants could scarce see the points of the Turks spears or top of their Tents for the Bassa had 40000 Pioniers ready at his command Famagusta standeth at the East end of the Isle low betwixt 2 Promontories it 's 2 miles about almost four-square Almost 2 parts whereof is beaten on with the sea the Land-parts being defended with a ditch but 15 foot broad a stone-wall and Bulwark and Parapets Towers also stand out scarce containing 6 Ordance a-piece It 's Haven South-Eastward is defended by 2 great Rocks betwixt which the Sea cometh in but about 40 paces over but then opening wider giveth a fit Harbour for ships though in no great number and was now strongly chained Near the Haven is an old Castle with 4 Towers There was one Bulwark so built after the manner of the Fortification of our time that it seemed almost impregnable yet there wanting many things the City was thought too weak long to hold out against so great a power but they had therein 2500 Italians 200 Albano's Horsmen and 2500 Cypriots all resolutely bent
Sister of Periaconcona greatly enclining unto him to be exalted to the Soveraignty Mirize Salmas chief Sultan hoped to advance either Mahomet Codabanda or else Hamze his eldest Sonne and by bestowing on him his Daughter in Marriage as he did to increase the glory of his House others thought they could draw Abas Mirize Mahomets middle Sonne out of Heri and make him King neither wanted the Infant Tamas his aspiring friends whose Tutor waited for some opportunity to settle him in the Kingdom many others waiting secretly on every occasion for their preferment howbeit the Sultans promised the Lady all the protection their forces could afford and yet did every one both in word and action clearly dissemble their severall Imaginations Amurath by these things awakened thought hereby a fair occasion to be ministred unto him to take up Arms against the Persians for 't is an ancient custom amongst the Othoman Kings that they may not challenge their due honours in their life-time nor their proud Monuments after death unless they perform some exploit conformable to their Majesty As soon as Ismahel was dead Mirize Salmas after many Letters to and fro at last assured Mahomet Codabanda that with all quietness and security he might come and possess the Kingdom advertising him also of the whole conspiracy against his Brother and how the fraudulent Lady with the Sultans had capitally consulted against himself and how she favouring Emir Chan and Abas Mirize his Sonne more than became her little regarded the rightful succession of him So Mahomet desiring also to see 〈◊〉 Mirize advanced who was virtuous and prudent both in civill and warlike matters and seemed jealous least some other should usurp upon his honour wrote back again that he was minded to take the rightful succession upon him and to that end was putting himself upon his journey but with straight charge that Salmas should before his entrance into Casbin present him with the mischievous head of 〈◊〉 Salmas secretly performing whatever Mahomet had enjoyned him he was thereby presently and solemnly proclaimed King then with many Squadrons of Men at Mahomets devotion he met him on the way carrying the Head of Periaconcona upon a Launces point with her hair dispersed and some other uncouth sights From which novelties arose much civill Warres Mahomet by the 〈◊〉 of Salmas seeking revenge on the Sultans for his Brothers death and they opposing with all their power against him Also the neighbour Nations to the Turks and the people of Sirvan disliked of this new King so that under him the State of Persia was more weakened than of long time before Amurath had more particularly intelligence of all these things from 〈◊〉 of Van a City of Armenia the greater discoursing unto him also of the King being diseased in his eyes little esteemed of his Subjects besotted in affection to his Sonnes the facility to overrule the chief Governours of the Georgians and those of Sirvan ill-affected towards him wishing him in any case not to let slip so faire an occasion as the Othomans had never before for overcoming that King Amurath now stirred up with these Advertisements from Ustresse setled himself more deeply in his former 〈◊〉 to prove his great forces for subduing the Persian King being also then wholly in league with Christendom and although this Warre could not be moved either against the Persians or Christians without breach of Faith yet there was no Bassa that made any account of that defect but after long consultation the three Bassaes Mahomet Sinan and Mustapha agreed that it would be better and lesse danger to attempt Warre against the Persians than against the Christians whose valour Mustapha having well tried chiefly at Famagusta preferred before the forces of the Georgians and Persians Amurath greatly urging upon what Coast to begin their journey protesting he would not enter into Warre except he had great hope of the Victory Some thought it best to send the Army to Babylon thence to Syras the chief City of the Country of Persia others to send it directly to Tauris and some t is reported would have had two several Armies sent to the said places so to bring the Enemy to a straight But Amurath not daring to repose such confidence in his forces so divided resolved to send one onely Army for conquering Sirvan and the chief Cities of Media the greater reposing also great hope in the notable help promised him by the Tartars Praecopenses determining not to go in person with his Army a matter most strange to them especially to Siman for he was troubled with the Falling-sickness and much feared his Sonne Mahomet in his absence who was much favoured of the people besides the suspected dangers from Christian Potentates perswading himself also it would be his great honour to perform those things by his Servants which had been unfortunately attempted by his Predecessors in person Whilest they were thus consulting and divers made meanes to be sent as Generall he sent divers Posts and light Horsemen to the Governours of Van Babylon and Erzirum by often inroads to spoil the Persian Holds and do them all harm they could which they were not 〈◊〉 to do especially Ustreffe both in the Countries Tributarie and subject to the Persian In these great preparations Stephen Bator now King of Poland in the beginning of his Reign by his Embassador entred into a strong league and confederation with Amurath at Constantinople in many Capitulations shewing on what termes that Kingdom stood if not yet standeth with the Turks great Empire which League after Stephen's death by Sigismund the 3d renewed hath been commodious to the Polonian Kingdom but so bound it that in the hardest distresses of the Christian Common-wealth and most indeed concerning itself it hath afforded no help at all as too plainly appeared in the Warres between the Emperour and Turk about Hungary But for all this League in the great consultation of Amurath with his Bassaes after the Persian Warre for the invading of Christendom the Polonians were laid in the same ballance with the rest and had not'the Turk been led against the Emperour their Neighbour they were scarce to have looked for peace to whom for all that they lent no great ayd in a long and most chargeable Warre But the great Bassa Mustapha was appointed by Amurath Generall of the Turks Army into Persia and to provide whatever he should think needful for so great a Warre with command to the Commanders of he greatest part of the Turkish Empire Eastward with their Souldiers of all sorts bound by their annuities to go to Warre at Spring 1578 to repair to Erzirum bordering upon Armenia to attend their 〈◊〉 Command who passing thorow Amasia and Sivas in the very beginning of Summer arrived at Erzirum there staying till his people and necessary provision was come thither whence he departed for Sirvan having first mustered the Souldiers of every Nation by themselves in which general survey were found about 110000 men most
these 4 dayes march many Turks stragling for Victuals and Provender were cut off by the Georgian Captains who with a number of Souldiers secretly followed the Army and lay in Ambush upon such places as the Victuallers were to pass thorow Mustapha coming to Teflis found the Castle empty Daut Chan Lord thereof having betook himself to the fields Mustapha for its convenient scituation repaired and fortified it planting therein 100 pieces of Ordnance appointing Mahomet Bassa Governour of Teflis with 6000 Souldiers so departing for Sirvan at which time 1000 persons of Soria that had brought a 1000 loads of Rent-corn to the Camp from Aleppo with 500 others of Omps anciently Hus Jobbs City and other places of Soria returning Homewards were all slain by Alessandro and 2 other Georgian Lords except a few escaping with Nassardin their Captain While Mustapha lay in the Plaines after his descent from the Mountains of Teflis the Embassadors of Alessandro the Great came and told him their Lord if he pleased was ready to come to do him reverence and to promise that devotion he had alwayes born to the Othoman Emperours He gladly and cheerfully sent them back to will him to come and that his Friendship should be to him most dear and acceptable Ordering all his Commanders to receive him with all possible signes of joy who coming and presenting the General with rich gifts offered him his obedience with the most lively speeches calling Amurath his Lord seeming to take it ill that he passed not through his Territory where he should have had plenty of all things yet hoping that in his return he would take it in his way where he should be ready to bestow all upon the service of his Lord and although he could not for many urgencies go with him into Sirvan yet he would always have himin mind pray to the Creatour for his most happy success Mustapha courteously receiving all and re-bestowing on him gifts promised in his return to pass thorow his Countrey so dismissing the Georgian Duke with like Honour as at first and in 12 days after he departing from 〈◊〉 came unto the confines of Sirvan resting on this side the River Canac one day at which time the Citizens of 〈◊〉 came to offer themselves as subjects to the Turks the General gladly promising them his assured protection The Turks over-wearied with travel but far more afflicted with Hunger whilst they were enquiring among themselves who could conduct them where they might supply their wants some Persians were taken who being straightly examined after much resistance told them that not far off over Marshes where Canac dischargeth it self into Araxis were many fields full of Rice and Corn in the Blade and a little further some fat Herds of Cattel Though Mustapha much doubted the subtilties of his Enemy yet to gratifie and make his men more willing to follow him into Sirvan suffered all that would to go for Viotuals about 10000 servile Persons with Beasts went to fetch away this provision but Toconac having gathered together the remainder of his Army devised how they might in some measure revenge their loss and impeach the Turks entrance into Sirvan but 〈◊〉 strength they stayed in Ambush till some part of the Turks Army should for relief descend into those fields sending out divers men who as if they had by chance lighted upon the Turks Camp revealed unto them as a great secret what a good prey was hard by them and within 3 dayes the said ten thousand Forragers at the wished place were surprized by the Persians and all slain save a few who by hasty flight saved themselves Mustapha hearing the noise of this hot skirmish hasted with all speed to have succoured them and though he came not timely enough for their relief yet fitly to revenge their death upon the Persians staying too long about the spoil The place of the booty was almost enclosed with Araxis and Canac whereinto Mustapha entring in battel-array the Persians in those difficulties began every man to betake himself to his own private conceit and fortune Tocomac Emirchan and other great ones first turned their backs and by help of their couragious Horses got over Canac but others attempting the like their Horses not of such courage and out of breath many of them were drowned which others perceiving ran in rage and fury upon their Enemies and were there all slain The Turks in this conflict losing not above 3000 men besides the Forragers though Tocomac that his loss might seem the more tollerable reported a greater slaughter to the King The Persian Captains full of sorrow with license of Tocomac who himself went to Reiuan departed to their several Governments expecting the Kings further pleasure from Casbin Mustapha straitly proclaiming that every man should be ready against next day to pass over the River Canac into Sirvan all his people arose in a tumult injuriously to his face reproving his folly and inhumanity as utterly to 〈◊〉 himself and confound the whole Army praying him to surcease unless he would cast them all away but he resolutely answered them that he would persist concluding that the desire of his Lord was not in any sort to be frustrated for his making too great account of his own life For all the sundry murmurings and whisperings upon this speech Mustapha next morning first waded over the River himself the Bassaes with their slaves following him the rest doing the like and so continued until night whereby above half the Army could not then get over This passage being tumultuous and disorderly above 8000 carried away with the violence of the River were drowned with the great outcry of the Hoast also many Beasts on whose backs divers hoped to have passed dry over were over whelmed therein That night being spent with great complaints and cursings by those yet on this side whose feares were encreased by example of their fellows some 〈◊〉 sedition was likely to ensue but that the gravel of the bottom of the River being removed by the hooves of the Cattel of them which followed Mustapha was driven to a place where there happened to be also a Foord which gathered in a heap made as it were a shelf so that the rest of the Army Carriages and Artillery passed over not one man perishing so resting that day and the next till the Army was mustered and put in order next day they encamped in Barren Champaines without Corn or Cattel neither could they learn where were any Villages whereby they were forced to give their Horses and Mule leaves and stalks of withered trees c. And the men for Hunger-sake eat the Reliques which they picked out of corrupted and loathsome Victuals neither saw they any end of these miseries yet was there now no looking back Mustapha before all the rest setting forward who had not long marched but store of sundry plants were discovered and soon after A large Plain and green Country by the sight whereof every one was refreshed
hasting into those Champaines abounding with all kind of Corn and Fruits Here every man satisfying his Appetite Mustapha at last arrived at Ere 's the chief City in that Coast of Sirvan which a number of her Inhabitants had forsaken following their Governour Samir Chan who with other Governours of Sirvan withdrew into the Mountaines attending the Events of those great motions but they found no rich prey therein the people having carried away the best things they had Mustapha here staying 22 days erected a fortress with 200 small pieces of Ordnance appointing Cartas Bassa with 5000 Souldiers to keep it commanding also Osman Bassa with 10000 to possess Sumachia with the Title of Visier of Sirvan charging him to clear the passages to Derbent and advertise the 〈◊〉 of his arrival there whom he supposed by that time to be come into those quarters Osman was friendly entertained by those of Sumachia he suffering no outrage to be done upon them whereupon they of Derbent offered him their City beseeching him to defend them from the Persians to whom though they long were subject yet better agreed with the Turks in their superstition Mustapha having thus subjected Sirvan and put all things in order importuned by the Janizaries and Graecians and through the season of the year departed from Ere 's homeward toward Alexander the Great his Country sending some before him to make a Bridge over Canac which he passing over gave Sahanial notice of his Arrival who came yielding himself the Turks Vassal and being pompously entertained and rewarded returned into his Mountain of 〈◊〉 Mustapha setting forward by night for the fair weather-sake by errour of his Guides fell into difficult passages being forced to stay waiting for day-light which shewed them that they were entred into the Countreys of Alexander Wherefore he proclaimed no man on pain of death to molest any of his Subjects Next day travelling on Embassadours came to him from Alexander with abundance of Victuals and relief excusing that he came not himself through the infirmity of his body wherewith he satisfied caused the Messengers to guide him to Teflis so that in 3 dayes they conducted his Army thither without any annoyance being well rewarded for their pains who come to Teflis found the Garrison there so pinched with Famine that they were glad to eat Cats Dogs sheep skins c. For they durst not go out of the Castle for the Enemy neither if they had had it any thing availed but by Mustapha's coming they were relieved with all plenty After 2 dayes he removed thence destroying all in his way with fire and sword in the Champains subject to Teflis onely the Sepulchres of Sinions Progenitors Lord of that Countrey were left untouched Next day they travelled over rough Mountains full of difficulties and the more for the great snows there fallen whereby many men and beasts perished In which 2 dayes distress the Souldiers without regard of the Enemies Countrey wherein they were lodged some here some there where was some thick Bush or Cottage or quiet Valley to shelter in Whereupon some Georgian Lords joyning themselves together expecting to perform some notable exploit and observing that Nosaine Bey had withdrawn with his Regiment under Mountains from the storms of wind they assayling him slew his men taking Loads of Money and Apparrel with all his Horses and what ever they could find himself scarce escaping into the Tents of Begran Bassa Next morning the Turks removing came to the Castle Chiurchale sending abroad many slaves for viotuall conducted by them of the Castle were all cut in pieces by the Georgians Hence the Turks departing over divers rough places were fain oftentimes to rest at last coming to the Confines of Deddesmit of her called The Widdows Country into which they must needs pass thorow a Narrow Strait between Mountains where Araxis greatly winding it self in the Valleys but one man could pass thorow at once between this and a thick Hilly-Wood they lodging on the Bank of the River removed next morning travelling over steep Mountains and rough Forrests hard Ice and Snow and hanging Rocks so that many Beasts tumbling down into the River there perished through these and other miseries They marched the 2 next dayes at last arriving in the Territories under 〈◊〉 or Golden Castle Deddesmits Palace where they had all manner of relief for all the miseries of their six dayes travel from Chyurchala which had it bin a fair way might have been performed in one The Widow with Alexanders her eldest son came unto Mustapha's Pavillion offering him Presents and promising all obedience whom he courteonsly receiving declared what Honourable entertainment he had given to 〈◊〉 her younger son there present and then dissembling his displeasure against Alexander whom he thought was one that spoiled the Sorian's in their return embracing him prayed her to be content to leave him also there with him saying he would send both her sons to Amurath with Letters of Credence for their yieldded obedience and that for their good deserts they might of him be Honourably rewarded and entertained The Lady though inwardly sore troubled yet seemed courteously to yield to what necessity constrained her so leaving them behind her she returned heavy to her Castle After 2 dayes refreshment he departed towards Chars arriving at last at Erzirum to the great joy of the Army which he there presently discharged dispatching Posts from thence with Letters to his Great Lord of all things that had passed exceedingly magnifying his own exploits propounding also unto him what he thought convenient to be attempted next year for strengthening the places Conquered and preparing way for new enterprizes and sending to him the Widows 2 sons certified him of their submission and his good entertainment in their Country declaring withal his opinion that Manucchiar was fitter for Government and readier to do him service then Alexander Amurath greatly commended Mustapha pleasing himself that of these beginnings might grow mighty Conquests whereby he should surpass the glory of his Predecessours Not long after Mustapha departed from Ere 's the Tartars arrived upon the Confines of Sirvan attending the command of the Turks to the number of 30000 conducted by Abdilcherai a young man of great valour comliness and fame according to the promise of 〈◊〉 Chan Osman hearing of their approach invited them into Sirvan to further these beginnings of Amurath Abd lcherai entring the Iron Gates of Derbent called by the Turks Demircapi that is the Gates of 〈◊〉 passed thence into Sirvan giving Osman advertisement thereof Ares Chan late Governour of Sumachia resolved upon the departure of Mustapha with the Governours of Ere 's and Sechi to return again to their forsaken Country and prove if he could revenge the injury done him by the Turks so having put to the sword some of Osmans Victuallers that were gone stragling out of the City he encamped a little from Sumachia and surprized some Messengers sent from Abdilcherai to certifie Osman of
his arrival and know his pleasure who after much torture disclosed their Letters which Ares reading and considering the great number of the Tartars that were come he presently raised his Camp retiring towards Canac thence to certifie the King of the Novelties and there to attend his answer The Tartar coming to Sumachia the Bassa appointed him to pass over Canac into Genge the Country of Emanguli Chan to inrich its self with its spoil who with posting Journeys came to Canac and most furiously assaulring Ares discomsited all his Host sending Ares alive to Sumashia where Osman hanged him by the neck out of a lodging in the State-House where he not long before had sat as Governour Abdilcherai swimming over the River found Emanguli Chan with his Wife and Family and a great part of the Nobility of Genge hunting the Wild Boar putting him to flight taking his wife all the Ladies many slaves and slew many that were come to see the sport Then going to Genge he took it whose barbarous Souldiers left no manner of inhumane cruelty unattempted so loaded with spoiles and weary with slaughter they returned merrily towards Sirvan And at the higher side of Ere 's in low Champains invironed with Hills they pitched their Tents without fear to sleep and rest their weary bodies The Persian King having gathered new Forces dispatched Namze Mirize his eldest son with 12000 Souldiers to see what hurt was done in Sirvan and attempt revenge but especially to punish them of Sethi and other Cities who had so voluntarily yielded to the Obedience and Religion of the Turks He departing from Casbin with his Mother Begum would needs follow her beloved son who was on his way under the guidance and Government of Mirize Salmas and was certified from Ares Chan of the arrival of Abdilcherai with his great number of Tartars being thereby at first almost out of comfort yet out of desire of glory and revenge he hastened and came to Ere 's long before his Father thought he could have so done Caitas Bassa was gone out spoiling the Country carrying away whatever he met withall and committing such insolencies as hungry Souldiers use to do but was suddenly assailed by the Prince and after a fierce and bloudy Battel wherein the Turks though few yet shewed many effects of Valour he was slain with all his Souldiers leaving all to the pleasure of the Victor Whereupon the Prince sent the 200 pieces of Ordnance left in the Fort by Mustapha to Casbin to his Father and now encouraged leaving his Mother at Ere 's went on towards Sumachia but descending the Hills he discovered the Tartars Camp Whereupon he greatly doubted whether to adventure on so mighty an Enemy or content himself with the Victory already gotten but thinking it too great a shame to return into Persia he defended the Hill perceiving the Army was all laid down to rest and their Horses all unsaddled Whereupon he pricking forward most terribly assaulted the Tartars and slaying their first and second Watch though with some loss put some to slight killing others and taking divers of them Captives Abdill Cherai being one who was sent alive to the King After this the Prince encompassed Sumachia wherein Osman Bassa sat as Governour to the reproach of Persia to whom he sent word If he would yield he should depart with life and goods otherwise he should be constrained to surrender the City and his life withall Osman knowing nothing of the Tartars overthrow but hoping of their return gave him a courteous answer that he was ready to yield but entreated him to stay but three dayes to put all things in readiness for his free departure The Prince glad expected of the Turk the performance thereof but Osman the Tartars not appearing resolved secretly to flee doubting if he should longer stay to be betrayed by the Citizens Wherefore before the 3 dayes end he by the help of a dark night and the cover of High rough Crags silently withdrew out of Sumachia carrying away all his substance and safely arriving at Derbent Next morning the Inhabitants opened the Gates to the Prince Who seeing their infidelity first by entertaining Osman now helping him to escape without giving him knowledge thereof with great cruelty did punish them razing their Houses with the Walls of the City The strength of Derbent Winters approach and his long Journey home perswaded him to lay aside his enterprize for that City and to return to Casbin Yet first repairing to Ere 's and Sechi he spared neither Sex Age nor condition Which done he with his said Mother Victorious Army somewhat diminished returned to Casbin Abdill Cherai was kept safe at the Kings Pallace at Casbin but with very easie Imprisonment which was daily so inlarged that he seemed rather as a Companion of those of the Court then a prisoner Whereby insinuating into the love of Queen Begum he spent his time in courting of her and she in all secret entertainment of him yet was it a rife report in Court and City that the shameless Lady had participated her bed and self with the Tartarian prisoner Howbeit the King and Prince knew nothing of it but the King perceiving the young Gentleman to be generally commended valiant courreous and comely also nobly born for he said he was the Brother of Tartar Chan was perswaded it would stand with the great good of his State of a Captive to give him his Daughter in marriage whereby he hoped the Tartarian Praecopenses would thenceforth both refuse to favour Amurath and in favour of Persia turn their Armes against him which his purpose so displeased the Sultan's of Casbin that they sought by all means possible to avert the King from so strange a policy but he fully resolved and upon the point to conclude the Marriage the Sultan's entring the Pallace with their followers ran the Tartar through the body and cutting off his Privities flapped them about his mouth It s reported the Queen was also then murdered by them However it was the Lady after that day never saw the Sun Upon these murders sprung up much civil dissention to the singular benefit of Amurath All which disorders the King by bridling of his own affections and the motions of his Son well appeased procured at last a perfect Unity Osman Bassa being in Derbent devised with all care possible to assure Sirvan now again almost lost under Amurath's Government Wherefore he thought good to enter into friendship with old Sahamall the Georgian Lord These two mutually practising many Tokens of good will and in short time Osman took to Wife a Daughter of the said Sahamall yet he soon began to suspect that Sahamall for all the fair shew of Friendship he made might receive some secret order from the Persian King to betray him and free the City from the Turks and so reduce all that Province in which he was fully confirmed by the speeches of his Wife who frankly told him that
rather imputed to the Tartar Nomades Melgrellians c. or to any body then to himself Amuraths Messengers coming to Osman he presently set forward towards Constantinople having first taken a very good Order in Derbent and Sumachia and an assured establishment of all places which Mustapha had subdued in Sirvan and himself maintained he chose out also 4000 tried Souldiers through whose Valour he doubted not but to pass thorow the treacheries of the Albanians and the 〈◊〉 squadrons of the Tartarians and Mengrellians Thus coasting along even at his first entrance unto the shoares of the Euxine-sea he was by the said twelve thousand Tartars apparrelled like Theeves suddenly assailed who stood so fast and firm turning the bold countenances of his resolute Souldiers against them who at first as their manner is used great force that they began at last to quail Whereupon Osman couragiously forcing upon them very soon and with a very small loss put them to flight killing a number of them and taking many by whom he was informed of their Kings treachery whereof Osman 〈◊〉 a perfect process to be made with the dispositions of the prisoners which he sent the shortest way he could to Amurath declaring all that had passed enflaming him to revenge so dangerous an injury Who took order that Uluzales his Admiral with some Galleys should fetch Osman and carry with him Island a Brother of the Tartar Kings commanding Osman to the terrour of others to put the treacherous King to death and put his Brother in his room This Mahomet was one of those mighty Princes who led a most violent troublesome life as Tributaries and Vassals under the Othomans power whose younger Brother Island became a Sutor to The Turk at Constantinople to be placed in his Brothers Kingdom who was for his ill Government hated of his Subjects which his suit was so crossed by the Kings Embassadours who spared for no cost that the ambitious youth was sent to Iconium and clapt fast up in prison where apparrelled like a Hermite he led his life altogether conformable to his misery but whilst he thus lived separated from all worldly cogitations he was now in post-haste sent for to Constantinople to the end aforesaid Now in the mean time Osman had cunningly got into his hand this Tartar-King reported to be betrayed by his own Counsellours corrupted by Gold whom with his two Sonnes Amurath caused to be presently strangled with a Bow-string and Island to be saluted King yet as Vassall to Amurath This was thought justly to have happened to this Tartar-King who not long before supported by Amurath had most unnaturally 〈◊〉 his most aged Father Osman embarquing himself at a Port of Caffa arrived at Constantinople where he was received with great pomp and singular signification of love but with most express kinds of Joy was he received by Amurath himself When he had declared unto him the particularity of matters that happened in his long and important Voyage and his Conquests in Sirvan afterwards he conferred with Osman about the enterprize of Tauris and in the end would needs know of him what issue he could promise him of this his desire and how by his advise the Forces should be employed and disposed for subduing that City which was so famous and so great an honour to the Persian Kingdom Who answered that since the matters of Georgia were now well setled and Sirvan under his Obedience established there was no cause why he should longer fore-slow so famous an enterprize but by erecting a Fort in that proud City to bring a terrour upon all Persia and raise a glorious Renown of so mighty a Conquest among the Nations of Europe thinking either the same Army or a very little greater so it were of the best Souldiers would suffice to do it by reason of one of the Letters which Sciaous wrote to the Tartar and by the 〈◊〉 of Mahomets mother jealous of his near alliance with her Husband as prejudicial to her Son Amurath had in the open Divano deprived him of his 〈◊〉 and hardly pardoning his life at the intercession of his Wife his Sister had banished him so that he lived about Chalcedon in a close Pallace he had there built for his own pleasure appointing Osman to be chief Visier and General of his Army against the Persians Truth it is that from a private Souldier though well born he by degrees grew up to the highest Honour of that so great an Empire Great was Osmans joy and great his desire to be worthy of so Honourable a favour Wherefore since the greatness of the Enterprize required a greater Army it was needful also for him the sooner to send out his advertisements into the Provinces and by his own example to stir up others even in Winter to pass over to Seutari and in the Territories of Angori Amasia and Sivas to drive out time till his Souldiers were all gathered together And that it might not fall out by this great speed that the Enemy misdoubting his purpose for Tauris should provide the greater Army he had it given out that he must go for Nasivan notwithstanding the Persians being very jealous of the City of Tauris ceased not diligently to enquire about it and sent divers Messengers to Osman as if he had meant to feel his mind touching a peace but indeed only to sound his designments which for all that he could not with all his cunning discover but still remained doubtful the fame still running for Nasivan In the beginning of this year Amurath sent Ameanechias to Stephen King of Poland to excuse the death of 〈◊〉 as if it had happened not by his command but by the insolency of some Souldiers bringing with him 2 base fellows as authors of that outrage for the king to take revenge upon who were indeed no such men but rather as was thought condemned for some other fact worthy of death for whom the Chiaus proudly and threatningly required present restitution of all goods which the Cossacks had taken from the Turks and their Captain to be delivered also unto him to be carried to Amurath which he so hardly urged that all the goods were forthwith restored which he almost triumphantly presented unto Amurath who disporting himself with his Mutes this Summer was almost dead They are lusty fellows deprived of speech who ye by signes can aptly express both their own and others meaning who for their secresie are the Ministers of the Turkish Tyrant's most horrible commands and therefore greatly regar ed by them With these mounted upon fair but heavy Horses was Amurath upon a ready Hore sporting himself riding about one and another and striking now the Horse now the man at his pleasure and was taken suddenly by a fit of the Falling sickness and falling from his Horse was taken up for dead whom the Janizaries supposing to have been dead fell to spoiling of the Christians and Jewes and had not their Aga hanged up one of them taken in the
manner and others in Janizaries habit to the terror of the 〈◊〉 they had proceeded to further outrages yet Amurath soon recovering to appease the rumor of his death upon their Sabbath which is Friday rode to the Temple of Sophia from his Palace his countenance yet all pale and discoloured This year also hapned such a chance as had like to raise new Warres betwixt the Turks and Venetians The Widow of Rimadan Bassa Governour of Tripolis in Barbary with her Sonne Hamili and a great number of slaves being about to depart from thence to Constantinople rigged up a fair Galley 〈◊〉 to be worth 800000 〈◊〉 joyning two others for her more safety and sailing by Corfu she was by tempest driven into the Adriatick Gulf at which time one Emus a Venetian 〈◊〉 had charge to keep that Sea against Pirates and all other Enemies who without delay set upon the Turks and took them all exercising most barbarous cruelty for having slain 250 men and Ramadans Sonne in her lap he caused the Women being first ravished to be cast overboard being about 40. Emus his Brother was most earnestly intreated by a beautiful Virgin to spare her Honour and the rather because she said she was a Christian taken in Cyprus about 12 years before since which time she had lived in most miserable Captivity and being now fallen into the hands of a noble Venetian was in good hope to be set at liberty inviolated which she most humbly 〈◊〉 him for the love of God to do and not imbrew his hands with her guiltless blood but the cruel and unbridled youth after he had abused her cast her with the rest into the Sea It s thought that Emus suffered this so great an outrage to be done that none should be left alive to betray the great booty or villany committed which yet was revealed by a Turk who saved by a Surgion of 〈◊〉 that knew him 〈◊〉 declared it at Canstantinople whereat the Turks were so inraged that in every corner of the City they threatned unto the Venetians most cruel revenge yea they could scarce hold their hands from Mowro 〈◊〉 the Bilo or Governour of their Marchants or forbear to 〈◊〉 in his face as he went in the street who hearing that Amurath in his rage was about to send one of his great Gentlemen whom they call Zansi the Turks usuall Embassadors found meanes that another of lesse Authority was sent to the Senate to Venice about it and to require the offendor to be punished and the Gallie slaves and goods to be restored so should their mutuall League continue firm otherwise he should be constrained by force to revenge the wrongs done to his Subjects the Senators after diligent examination of the matter answered that the Widow with her Family was honourably entertained at Zant an Island of theirs and had courteous Presents but coming to Sefalenia another of their Islands her people running on Land spared neither Man nor Beast the Providitor making after them found them in Arms within the Gulf whom they neither saluted nor struck any Top-sail to shew that the command of that Sea belonged to the Venetians which by the League they ought to have done for which out-rages and contempt he took so sharp a revenge yet they promised in that case to do what 〈◊〉 them in reason and Justice wherewith Amurath seemed to be well contented but indeed loath to intangle himself with Warres against that mighty State at Sea because of his Warres against the Persians yet shortly after Emus was worthily beheaded and the Galleys with all the goods and slaves restored This great Woman had therein four hundred Christian slaves which were set at liberty for whom the Venetians restored as many Turks Ramadan Bassa himself having Warres with a King of the Moores went out against him with all his forces wherein was certain Companies of Janizaries sent from Constantinople Ramadan entring the great and sandy Desarts of that Countrey was unprovided both of Victualls and skilful Guides so that at length he could neither go forward nor without losse of his men return yet he got home but with the losse of some men and the manifest danger of his whole Army for which his imprudence the Janizaries in a rage fell upon him and slew him Let no man marvel that Amurath winked at their insolency for those martiall men are now not as in former times grown proud and insolent by living in continual pay doing whatsoever seemeth them best though never so foul or unreasonable Not many years before the Janizaries in Cyprus flew Achmetes Bassa the Governour pretending he had defrauded them of their pay and intolerably exacted upon the Countrey Amurath highly offended at their killing their Generall whom they never before complained of for his own Majesties sake and the repressing of the like insolencies in others sent a new Governour into Cyprus with such a number of Souldiers as might seise upon the chief offendors who dissembling his Commission by certain trusty men gave it out amongst the Janizaries that Amurath was so far from being angry for the death of Achmetes that he thought him to be worthily slain this was to put the Janizaries in security hereupon they chearfully and with all due reverence received their new Governour but shortly after by an unexpected guil they compassed in all the new-come Souldiers and slew them every one seizing also upon the Gallies that brought them by which second outrage though Amurath saw his Majesty contemned yet was he content to passe it over being loath to add domestical troubles to the great Warres he had with the Persian To end this matter with the opinion of Rustan Bassa concerning these masterful men Whilest 〈◊〉 the Emperour's Embassador lay in the Turks Camp when Solyman went in person into Asia to countenance Selimus against Bajazet upon a light quarrel though heavily taken between his followers and some Janizaries washing themselves at the Sea side the Embassador for quieting thereof was glad to use the help of Rustan who understanding the matter by a Messenger sent on purpose advised him to cut off all occasion of contention with those most naughty fellows asking him further If he knew not that it was now the time of Warre in which time they so raigned that Solyman himself was not able to rule them but stood in fear of them But let us return again unto the Warres of Persia According to the Commands gone out through all the Cities of the Empire the Souldiers began to flock together and all that were 〈◊〉 to be established in their former places or sought to be now promoted repaired to Osman as unto a King presenting him with very large gifts whereby he collected a huge heap of Treasure and so entertaining them with courtesie and promising rewards and honour to such as would follow him he levied a wonderful number of men and monies and notwithstanding the great dearth that commonly raigned in those quarters yet to Erzirum
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
out spies to learn which way they held meaning to set upon them but they near Salmas were apprehended by the fore-runners of Cicala and through torture revealed at last that their King was on his way towards Santazan Whereat Cicala was greatly astonied both for the danger of his Forces and Munition as also for that by any loss which his Troops should sustain the City of Van the best Frontier-Town in all those Countries must needs be in hazard he having left in it but a very few Souldiers Whereupon he withdrew himself back to Van. But the preparations of the Prince were so long and troublesom that the Turks new Generall had time enough to go with a strong Army into those Quarters and preserved all that which the only Expedition celerity of the Persians might have put in great hazard In the mean time Amurath was much troubled in his choyce of a new General Osman having by will left Cina Cicala to be his Successor a man of approved valour and the danger he had run through with his great favours in the Court not a little enclined the King to his Election but he heard of a publick rumour that the Souldiers could not endure to be commanded by so young a Captain and that some should say they would not obey him Ferat Bassa also now very ambitiously sought again this Honour having lately performed some good service to the Kings good likeing so because he was in good time to provide for his affairs he chose Ferat Bassa granting him Authority to manage at his pleasure such affairs of the Empire as concerned his Journy Whereupon Precepts were sent out to all Bassaes and Governours of Cities that all their Souldiers with their Taxes Tents Artificers and all their necessary provision upon the first warning to be sent them the next Spring in Soria Besides all the Revenue of that Country for the yearly pay of Souldiers in Reivan Erzirum Lori 〈◊〉 Teflis and Chars with the revenue of Tripoli amounting to 600000 Duckats there was taken up of private Merchants of Aleppo only 60000 Cecchines to be re-paid with the first mony received from the Kings Custom-Houses a matter that moved an extraordinary grudging among the people who besides so many grievances laid upon them should also lend their mony without hope of restitution yea and every man did much wonder how they were so ill advised to make known to Christian Princes what want of money they had The Ceneral also had 400 pieces of Ordnance and did so work that Maxut chan was granted to be the Guide of his Army as he had bin of Osman's and that Cicala Bassa of Van scarce his good friend was sent out of his way as Bassa to Babylon So all things being in readiness he departed from Constantinople in April 1586. coming to Sivas somewhat later then he should partly through the plague which then raged in Constantinople and partly by other occasions at Sivas He stayed so long for the coming together of his Army and in mustring men and indeed by the exceeding dearth at Erzirum that it was the latter end of July before he departed thence which dearth was also so great in Aleppo that a Venice Bushell of Wheat was sold for 12 Cecchines Ferat ready to depart from Sivas was advertised from Giaffa from Tauris that the Persian Prince was hourly expected with a great Army greatly doubting if he did foreslow to send succours and give the Prince time to assault the Castle how he could hold the same whereupon Ferat so hasted his journy that about the beginning of August he was at Erzirum and hearing more more of the Princes coming hasted to Van whence collecting all his souldiers surveying his Army a-new he departed being come into the large Champains to prove their readiness he marshalled them as if he should forthwith 〈◊〉 Battel and so marched on Ferat alway feared some sudden assault of the Persians which the constant report of the Princes coming to Tauris much encreased yet he reposed much confidence in the conspiracy now plotted against the Princes life with the privity of Aliculi the Protector of Heri who under colour of assisting the Prince had concluded with himself and promised Abas having given notice thereof also to Ferat to rid Prince Hamsey of his life or at least in the variable chances of Battel at some time or other to make him fall into Ferats hands and so settle his Lord Abas in his Estate hereupon Ferat more confidently disposed his designments and somewhat lesse feared the great preparations of Persia which preparations in truth were by most wicked devices and conspiracies turned from the end whereto the Prince had appointed them and since Rebellion and Discord have for the utter undoing of the glory of Persia alwayes favoured the Turks Army it s no marvel that our Writers cannot chuse but write of the undoubted Victories of the Turks and the bare shadows of the Persian exploits which yet many Christians vainly believe because they most earnestly desire them to be true although they do see the contrary manifest The Persian Prince about the latter end of July arrived at Tauris with most of his Army where he contrary to all mens opinion stayed not the cause is uncertain but hearing that Zinel Bassa of Salmas who of a Persian became a Turk and had done great harm encamped before the City he with 12000 Souldiers road to Salmas and gave him the assault who with the Souldiers fled presently and fell before the Persians so that Zinell himself with a few others had much adoe to escape leaving his City unto the angry Enemy who sacked and spoiled it exercising all such cruelties as partly the desire of Souldiers use to do and partly such as the Turks shewed unto them in sacking of Tauris the last year the like spoils did they in all those Quarters and perhaps had returned to Tauris but that some spies advertized them that the Bassa of Reivan with 1500 Harquebusiers had committed the like outrages thereabouts wherewith he greatly moved immediately marched towards Rievan and incountred the Bassa not far from the City who discovering the Enemy afar off disorderly retired into his Fort with such speed that he left most of his Souldiers to the Prince's fury who slew them all and did what harm possibly he could all thereabouts At the same time Manogli the valiant Drusian in revenge of the injuries done him and his people by Ebrain Bassa and to recompence himself of all those bribes and presents which he wrung from him had wasted and sacked all the Territory of Ebner Mansor and of his other Enemies who had yielded their obedience to the Turks without let doing exceeding harm by sudden inroads even very near unto Balbeck and Tripolis so that Amurath was glad to dispatch away Ali Bassa with the 〈◊〉 of Bassa of Damasco to muster fresh Souldiers and attend the utter subversion of Manogli but coming
appointment of the Governour of Rab took at advantage the Turks Treasurers in Hungary who commanded 5000 Turks as he was mustering and paying some of his Countries slaying him with divers of his men and putting the rest to flight and so with the spoyl and a few prisoners returned with the dead Treasurer Sinan being come to Buda with his Army resolved to begin with the siege of Vesprivium so compassing the City round he continually thundred against this City with his Battery the Christians perceiving the City was not long to be holden against so great a power placed divers barrels of gunpowder in Mines they had made under the walls and bulwarks with traines to take fire at a certain time then they departed secretly out of the City in the dead of the night yet were they by the Turks descried and most of them slain Samaria the Governour having a while defended himself was taken alive together with Hors-kirk a German Captain The Turks strivingly entered the City October 26. as greedy of prey but the powder taking fire blew up the very Foundations slaying a number of Turks and also wonderously defacing the City The Bassa removing to Palotta summoned the Castle but receiving no pleasing answer he besieged it with all his power which at first Ornan the Captain cheerfully received but being afterwards discouraged though the Castle was yet but little shaken but one man slain and the Souldiers ready to spend their lives in defence he offered to yield the Castle to the Bassa so they might safely depart with bag and baggage who granted his request but they being come forth and ready to depart the faithless Turk slew them all except the Captain and 2 others after which without much labour he took in all the Country thereabouts near the Lake Balaton Now at last about the middle of Octob. the Christians mustered their Army of above 18000 of good and expert Souldiers With which passing over Danubius at the first encounter with the Turks they slew a great number rescuing a number of Captives about the end of which Month Count Hardeth Governour of Rab and Generall in that part came from Camara and besieged Alba regalis which he soon made saultable with his Artilery but in the assault was notably repulsed by the Turks so perceiving no good could be done without a long siege for which he was not then provided after consultation had he raised his siege Novemb. the second removing that day but half a mile but being about to remove next day newes was brought that the Enemies power was almost in sight the Bassa of Buda by the command of Sinan was come forth with 13 Zanzacks twenty thousand Souldiers 30 Field-pieces and 500 Waggons laden with Victuals and other provision to relieve the City Whereupon the Count assisted by Serinus and other valiant and experienced Captains with great speed put his Army in order and couragiously set forward the Bassa seeing them marching towards him took the upper ground thence discharging his Field-pieces upon them which mounted too high did litle or no harm at all The Christians for all that calling on the name of the Almighty mounted the Hill and by plain force constrained the Turks to flye about 5000 of whom were foot 〈◊〉 being Janizaries who making often stands wounded many yet were almost all slain with many others among whom were 3 great Zanzacks 7 Chiaus with many others of the valiantest Captains of the Turks Borderers The Turks lost in this Battel were deemed to be at least 8000 few prisoners were saved Whereupon Sinan sware by Mahomet never to spare any Christian All their Waggons and Artillery became a prey many Ensigns being found and Weapons of great value The Count with great joy brought back his Army to Alba Regalis encamping near the Bulwark Stopaseh where the 〈◊〉 most feared the assault Palfi Nudasty and others earnestly perswaded the Count not to depart before he had won the City but he considering the hard time of the year the Cities strength which was full of Souldiers by reason of them that fled in thither with the want of things necessary for a longer siege and fearing at last of being forced to leave it called a Council resolving to raise his siege afterwards imputed to him for more then an oversight So firing the Suburbs he departed towards Rab Novem. 5th Ere long the Lord Teuffingbath the Lieutenant in the upper Hungary removed from Casovia with 14000 suldiers and laid siege to Sabatzka out of which Castle the Turks did usually much harm Teuffingbath battering it in three places made it Saultable taking it by force Novemb. 19th and put to the sword all the Turks therein about 250. leaving a strong Garrison of his own whereby the Country thereabouts was in great quiet Thence the Generall removed with all speed to Fileck a strong City of upper Hungary and planting his battery terribly without ceasing thundred against the walls and gates the Zanzack-Governour thereof got out by night with a few to acquaint his neighbour Zanzacks with the Christians coming and their number also to consult how the City might be relieved The Bassa of Tenesware with 4 other Zanzacks undertook the matter Whereupon the Bassa sent for 800 Janizaries left by Sinan at Buda and Albaregalis who flatly 〈◊〉 to go saying They would not be led as beasts to the slaughter as were their fellows at Albaregalis yet they forced the Armenians brought thither to go But from Buda Alba and Scamboth were sent only 1500 common Souldiers for all that the Bassa with the Zanzacks being firm in their resolutions raised an Army of 18000 with many Field-pieces and by night came within two Miles of Fileck but the Gene rall with Stephen Bathor and others with 7000 choyse Souldiers went out against them and Novemb. the 21 assailing their Tents put them all to flight fiercely pursuing them with a terrible 〈◊〉 In the fight and flight were slain 6000 but few or none taken The Bassa with the Zanzack of Fileck with many other great ones were found slain This Victory gained with little or no loss yielded to the Christians a rich prey all which they carried into the Camp more straitly besieging the City then before on which day the Lord Palfy and Lasla came to the Camp with 6000 and forthwith they sent to the besieged That if they would forthwith yield they should depart with life and goods though the Turks had lately broken their faith at Palotta otherwise they denounced unto them all extremities yet the Turks refused to yield Whereupon the battery began more terribly then before so that though the City was most strongly fortified yet in 3 dayes a fair breach was made whereby they entred without any notable loss Nov. 24. ransacked the City and burnt a great part thereof On which day they took the utmost Castle wherein was the Zanzacks Pallace It stands upon a very High Hill strengthened by Art and Nature and had in it a
placing those Cattel round about them like a Trench they marched on but the Polanders with their Ordnance so terrified the Cattel that they turning upon the Tartars and overthrowing all in their way did exceeding harm the Polonians following them and hardly charging the confused Army armed onely with Bowes and Arrowes after a small fight put them to flight gaining an exceeding rich Prey The Polonians lost about 1800 of the Tartars were slain 30000 the rest retiring into Polodia passed the River Nester by the way of Transilvania and doing exceeding harm came to Temesware and so further into Hungary being conducted to the Army by 700 Turkish Horsemen But June 14th the Christians between 8 and 9 in the morning furiously assaulted Strigonium in three places which they notably maintained till almost 3 in the afternoon yet were they glad at last with losse to retire The arch-Duke from a high place beholding the assault had one of his Footmen slain fast by him with a small shot many Turks were also slain three being Sanzacks Next night there arose a most horrible Tempest of wind and rain so that the arch-Dukes Tent was overthrown and others blown down or rent were carried in the Air from place to place About which time Lord 〈◊〉 in sight of the Castle cast up a notable Fort in the very place where Solyman lay when he besieged this City whereby the Enemy was embarred to convey any thing up the River for relief of the City to hinder which the Enemy in vain sallyed out The Christians took also another Fort in an Island on the other side of the River which the Turks lately took from them cloying the Ordnance which they again repairing furnished it with a Garrison and other Ordnance Then was the Castle and lower Town in five places from the new Fort old Town and Island so continually battered that one would have thought all should have been beaten down June 17th a Cannonier so dismounted a great Piece in the Castle that the Piece with the Turkish Cannonier fell down into the Ditch on which day a Mason that fled out of the Castle reported that many Turks had been slain and but an hour before 40 were slain in one Chamber The Turks now resolving when they were at the last cast desperately to sally out and to return with Victory or shift every one for himself which seemed not wholly feigned for about midnight 1000 Turks sallying out upon the new Fort were notably repulsed and forced to retire 50 being slain and many more wounded and taken and toward evening eight Turks being taken confessed that six dayes before they saw seven Boats of wounded and dead men sent down the River to Buda so that it might be easily gathered how bloody a siege this was to the Turks for those were bodies of account those of the common Souldiers slain being thrown into the River The Turks much troubled with the new-built Fort on the bank of Danubius sent to the Admirall of the Turk's Galleys below in the River to come up with his Galleys as high as the Fort and at least to seem as if he would assault it at which time the besieged would sallie out and assail it indeed on the other side The Admirall did accordingly discharging some great Pieces at the Fort but was so welcomed that he was glad with his Galleys rent to fall down out of danger but the while they of the Town so desperately assaulted the Fort on the other side that some on the top of the Rampiers for two houres most cruelly fought many being slain and wounded and the rest forced to retire The Christians intentively laying at the siege understood that a supply of men and Victuals was shortly to be put into Strigonium wherefore they sent out Companies that the one Party lying fitly upon the River the other by Land might intercept the same both which places being before possessed by the Enemy they suddenly assailed them there slaying some putting the rest to flight who for all that in their retreat brake the Turks Bridge made of Boats under the Castle over Danubius some Boats being carried away with the stream and 30 falling into their hands but five perishing who fell into the River by too much haste out of a little Boat Now fame had brought newes that Sinan Bassa was coming to relieve Strigonium of whose power were divers reports but most doubting the worst and weary of the long siege with its calamities still added something to make the danger of stay seem greater The besieged were in great wants the intercepted Letters of the Sanzack to the Bassa of Buda declaring their hard Estate and craving his promised help or else the City could not be defended for lack of Victualls above three dayes which Letters being read in the Camp great preparations were made for continuing the siege and withstanding the Enemy hourly expected The Ordnance never ceasing on either side many were slain on both sides many being Cannoniers But the fame of Sinans coming daily encreasing and the Camp possessed with a general feare the Generall consulted with Count Hardeck Lord Palfi Lord 〈◊〉 and Eraun Governour of Comara what were best to do who all agreed betimes to raise the siege and remove into some more safe place which resolution next day June 26 they made known to the other great ones in the Army who wondrously discontented chiefly the Germans both by word and writing protested against it as most dishonourable and made without their knowledge and liking to whom 〈◊〉 President of the Councel of Warre declared the Enemy was even at hand with a very great Army which encreased daily c. besides it was known how that in the assaults they had lost many of their best Souldiers besides others that died and that the place of encamping was subject to many dangers wherefore the arch-Duke was resolved in time to raise his siege c. But the German Princes and Commanders urged still their Protestation requiring the Generall to excuse them before God and the World if they yielding to his Command did what they would not have otherwise done causing their said Protestation to be solemnly conceived in writing which they sealed to and subscribed to wit the Dukes of Saxony and Brunswick and nine others The arch-Duke first sent away the Ordnance and raising the siege June 28 passed over Danubius with the whole Army not far from Kokara doubtfully expecting what course Sinan would take before their departure they fired the old Town rasing St. Nicholas Tower which they once purposed to keep the besieged Turks were much gladded Yet Teuffenbach lay still before Hatwan labouring by all meanes to take from the besieged their water and with Earth and Faggots to fill up the Ditches which he having now brought to some good perfection they wrote to the Bassa of Buda except they were in three dayes relieved they should be forced to yield he speedily assembling all his forces hoped to
Rhegium 〈◊〉 rifled and burnt it but sayling thence 〈◊〉 in sight of Messana of Sicily landed some men who adventuring too far were by the people put to flight so they returning to Rhegium utterly razed what they before 〈◊〉 The while even in sight of the Garrison of 〈◊〉 they took a ship comming out of the East and 3 others from Apulia afterwards they changing a few shot with some Eastern galleys to no great purpose sayled along the Calabrian coast oft landing men who skirmishing with the Calabrians had sometime the better sometime the worse being again received 〈◊〉 their Galleys The Messanians gave speedy knowledge hereof to the Viceroy then at Palermo for his pleasure requesting his present ayd but he dallying off time they of themselves raised 500 Horse to be led by Ph. Cicala the Renegate Admirals Brother storing the City with all necessaries for a Siege certifying the Spanish King of all and of the Viceroy's negligence requesting speedy ayd against these Turkish terrours The Neopolitans put to sea 30 Galleys to whom the Pope Duke of Florence the Genowayes and Knights of Malta joyning theirs there was about 80 Galleys under Auria's conduct The Venetians also though in League with the Turks for more safety set forth about 100 Ships and Galleys under Foscarin their Admiral which Fleets sayling up and down freed Italy Sicily Dalmatia c. of a great fear 〈◊〉 having encouraged his Souldiers with great hope and large promises assaulted Rab Septemb. 23. the Sun 〈◊〉 scarce up furiously maintaining it till night but through the Defendants valour the Turks with loss retired yet was the assault renewed next day and that most desperate for two dayes 12000 Turks being slain the rest retiring into their Trenches Few dayes after the Turks by a Mine blew up a Bulwark of the Town whereby the Ditch was there somewhat filled the Turks with all their power next day striving to enter but were still notably repulsed with loss yet ceased not the Enemy his 〈◊〉 and assaults till he had gained two Bulwarks whence he might by the fallen rubbish have access to the Town to the great terrour of the Defendants Whereupon Count Hardeck who corruptéd by the Turk had often said The Town could not possibly long be defended now took occasion to consult with the other Captains divers being already framed to his purpose what to do for yielding up the Town and after a little consultation for fashion-sake resolved to send to Sinan sor a truce for a while for coming to some reasonable composition yet to excuse his doings he conceived a publike Instrument in writing in his and his Captains names that since 't was impossible longer to defend the town against such an enemy without new supplies instead of the 〈◊〉 which they had oft in vain requested they were necessitated to compound with the Enemy which they subscribed and sealed So a Truce being granted and Pledges mutually given it was agreed That the whole Garrison should with bag and baggage and 〈◊〉 displayed with a safe convoy be brought to Altenburg which though by Oath confirmed yet when the Count had September 29. delivered up the City and all were come forth himself and a few friends were conveyed to the appointed place but the rest were spoiled of all they had and hardly escaping with life came to Hochstrate and next day to Altenburg Rab even when it was given up was Victualled for a year and sufficiently furnished with all necessaries for defence Sinan glad of this Victory gave his Master speedy knowledge thereof of whom he was highly commended and afterwards bountifully rewarded for Amurath now hoped to devour Austria with the adjacent Provinces Sinan 〈◊〉 delay repaired and fortified the City enlarging the Ditches and filling the Cathedral with 〈◊〉 Whereon he planted store of great Ordnance speedily dispatching all things and the while sent the Tartars to summon Pappa which Castle and small Town the Christians next night setting on fire fled The 〈◊〉 leaving 4000 Janizaries and 2000 Horse in Garrison departed from Rab to Comara a strong town about 4 Miles from it which is enclosed on the East North and South with the two arms of Danubius all 〈◊〉 ways 〈◊〉 with his well appointed Fleet hardly besieged the Town giving divers assaults while the Beglerbeg of Greece by continuall Battery and Mines shook the walls and bulwarks by land but the Christians with no less courage defended themselves than they 〈◊〉 by the Turks assailed Matthias the Arch-Duke the while collecting again a good Army resolved to go and raise the siege from this City of such concernment to the Emperor so he came encamped Octob. 28. at N tria about 5 Miles off The Tartars were a little before departed purposing to return home yea the Turks weary of the siege and wanting Victualls began to shrink away Wheresore the Bassa upon the Christians approach forsook the City after three weeks hard besieging it and by a bridge of boats passed over Danubius to Dotis where next day he brake up his Army The arch-Duke coming to Comara diligently repaired the Breaches filled up the Mines made new Bulwarks and Rampiers in divers places leaving Lord Brun the Governour still who in defence thereof was grievously wounded in his right knee to whom Sinan in the late siege sending 5 Turks under colour of a parley but indeed to try if he were any way to be won to yield the City he having heard them out had 4 of their Heads struck off and set upon pikes upon a Bulwark but the 5th he sent back to tell the Bassa He was much deceived if in him he thought to find a Count Hardeck he wishing rather to die the Emperour 's faithfull servant in the bloud of the Turks than to betray his charge Count Hardeck generally suspected to have betrayed Rab to Sinan was sent for to Vienna and by the Emperour committed to prison and being accused of sundry things as that at first he suffered the Enemy to do many things which afterwards turned to great danger That he caused some Cannoniers to discharge some great pieces with powder onely and seeing one piece especially to do much harm he caused it to be removed hat he should oft say The Turks should be but one Town the richer if he won it c. The heaviest thing was the Testimony of one who being taken young and serving in Sinan's Chamber now was fled from the Turks declaring to Matthias in time of the Siege he but 3 dayes before by his Master's command had delivered 2 baggs full of Duckats to 2 Christians one having a notable scar in his face and afterwards known to have bin a servant to the Count. Upon this and the like proof he after many hearings in open Court where were 47 Nobles and great Capt. was condemned of Treason and adjudged to be hanged and to hang 3 dayes on the gallows and all his estate to be confiscate which rigour the Emperour mitigated by
to the going down thereof Then in his Pallace he made to his great men a royall Feast but while they were in their mirth all the City was in an uproar so that 't was thought scarce one would have escaped alive from the Banquet had not the chief Bassa by gravity wisdom and labour timely appeased them and caused all the Ordnance to be brought into the streets and discharged among them In the mean time divers fortunate inroades and skirmishes were made by the late Confederate Princes in the Turks Frontiers The City Weitze was in the beginning of Aug. 1595. again recovered and the Christians about Scuthia being about 4000 carried out of the Turks Frontiers an exceeding rich prey with divers notable captives so did also the Christians of Vivaria when also the Garrison-souldiers of Altenburg inroading about Rab encountred 4000 Turks slaying 200 and taking certain prisoners And Sinan Bassa returning towards Constantinople with much Treasure scraped together in the Warrers in Hungary was stript of all by the Valachians not far from Belgrade himself hardly escaping with a few Those Valachians with the Transilvanians under the conduct of Gestius Ferens 〈◊〉 further on the Turks took from them divers Towns and Castles and meeting with 12000 Tartars slew many and put the rest to flight The Turk being highly offended with the insolency of the Valachians sent one Bogdanus a Valachian of the Palatines House with a great power to expulse Michael and take his place as his Tributary who came into Valachia yet thought best to expect the comming of the Tartars left in Hungary by Sinan but the Valachians Transilvanians 〈◊〉 them slew 8000 of them putting the rest to flight and so returned unto whom presently after Sigismund sent 14000 more to ayd them Bogdanus hearing of the Tartars overthrow and of this new supply kept himself still within his 〈◊〉 Ere long Han the Crim Tartar with a great power of Horse entred Moldavia by fire and sword to reduce it to the Turks Obedience but Aaron the Vayuod ayded by his Neighbour Michael so belayed him that in 3 〈◊〉 having slain 12000 Tartars he forced the rest to retire out of his Country and presently after took Bendar and divers other strong Holds of the Turks near Danubius furnishing them with his own Garrisons also the Inhabitants of the rich Country Bograga willingly submitted unto him as weary of the Turkish 〈◊〉 He likewise ayded by the Cossacks overthrew Janicula the Son of Bogdanus once Vayuod of Moldavia sent by Mahomet with a great power to recover that Country at Scarpetra a Mile from Danubius in plain battel slaying 8000 Turks putting him to flight and taking the whole spoyl and marching presently to Nester Alba he much frightned the Turks then burning the Suburbs he retired Sinan Bassa brought Krecowitz the Emperors Embassadour aforesaid with him when he came into Hungary who having suffered many indignities upon the way and at Belgrade there died 5 of whose servants he kept in strait prison as guilty of their Master's death to avert the infamy thereof from himself but upon the coming thither of a new Treasurer from Court he caused those five to be brought before him charging them with his death saying They should answer it before God and their Emperour and that his end of bringing him with him was only to use his help in concluding a peace so to have set him and his at liberty but he being dead he would send them to the Emperour to be examined and to tell him he was sent from the Great Sultan who was not but by God to be withstood to besiege Vienna which he could easier have taken last year than he had done Rab Wherefore he had best seek for peace before so great a power had taken the field sending them with the Treasurer to the Bassa of Buda his Son for further Instructions Who being brought before him as also the late Embassadour's Secretary after he had said something of the hard dealing with them he declared He alwayes disliked the same and oft entreated his Father for their liberty which he put them in hope shortly to have one of them the while to go to the Emperours Court and speak with one of his Secretaries whom he had advised to bethink of peace writing to him afterwards on what conditions he thought peace might be obtained viz. If all strong Holds taken by the Emperours Forces in these wars with their Territories should be restored Siseg surrendred If the Emperor should leave the Transilvanians Moldavians and Valachians to the Sultan to be chastized as Rebels and If he would send the Turk at once his tribute for the years past and so yearly afterwards so could he be content by his Fathers mediation to further the treaty of Peace This the Secretary wrote sending it by the young Lord Perling yet on condition That if Perling returned not with answer in 25 dayes all the rest should lose their heads A subtile and deceitfull device of the Father and the Son only to see what confidence the Christians had and to break the Confederacy between the Emperout and the Transilvanians c. and that other Princes hearing of a rumour of peace might defer to send their promised ayd For Transilvania Moldavia and Valachia brought 1000000 Duckats yearly into the Sultans Treasury and these were also the fittest to intercept all manner of provision brought either to or from Constantinople by land Sinan for all this motion diligently prepared for war at Belgrade making three Bridges over Danubius in divers places for transporting his Army sending for the Garrisons round about and others billetted in the Country Perling came within the limited time with an answer to the Letters That it was alwayes the Emperour's mind and his endeavour for a firm Peace between him and the Sultan on reasonable conditions c. That he had sent his double tribute which lay long at Komara till Amuraths mind were known c. But whereas Sinan and his son were of opinion that the Emperour was brought so low that he must be glad to accept of most hard and dishonour able conditions of peace propounded by them they much deceived themselves for by the power of God they should shortly by experience know the contrary c. Yet forgetting all injuries he was more enclined to an honourable peace than to protract the war with the unspeakable harm of the subjects on both sides But Sinan must above all things know All strong Holds taken by the Turks in this war must be restored beginning at Whitz in Croatia even to the last subject carried into captivity and that the Transilvanians Moldavians and Valachians many Ages united as inseparable members to Hungary and by the late treacherous practice of certain rebellious seperated from it were henceforth to be left under the protection and Government of the Emperour and never more to be impugned by the Turks which things being done and order taken that
Turks in the Suburbs and those in the Fort under Thomas-hill firing the Houses and defacing the Fort what they could in that sudden fear fled into the Lower-town Next day the Count took those forsaken places manning them with 〈◊〉 making a Bridge with boats over Danubius casting up Mounts and doing many other things in 3 dayes he repairing St. Thomas Fort placed 4 great pieces and battered the Lower-town and straitning the besieged in other places more than they had bin the year before The Bassa of Buda knowing their wants of men and munition attempted thrice as he did many times after to have by the River put supplies into the City but was still forced with loss to return The Lower-town called 〈◊〉 or the Water-town was soon so battered that scarce any building was whole and a Counter-scarfe made last year beaten down Certain Walloons were sent hither to view the Ditches after whom some Hungarian Heidons followed without any command who couragiously set some Ensigns on the top of another Counter-scarf but the Turks comming on close together forced them with loss to retire divers walloons were also slain with some others of good place to the 〈◊〉 his great grief not a little offended with that disordered service yet the battery ceased not and the Christians slew many Turks on the walls with Musket-shot receiving little hurt again being in their Trenches and the Turks shooting but sparingly yet with what they spent they had slain four Christian-Cannoniers and one Walloon-Captain About the midst of July the Count thinking the Water-Town to be made saultable sent some Companies to assault it who passing the Counter-scarf found the Ditch full of mud and but newly cut broader being thought scarce passeable without a Bridge behind which was a huge Wall with strong Bulwarks and within that another new Ditch on whose brink was a thick and huge parapet yet some Walloons ventured to pass all this but through the Defendants valour the small number of the assailants with the places disadvantage they retired with the loss of many The Christians had taken a little Island before the City kept by some of Palfi's Heidons but the Turks from Buda there landing three thousand Souldiers slew the Heidons and recovered the Island furnishing it with a Garrison and all necessaries so departing About 3 dayes after the Christians the second time assaulted the Water-town the chief Leaders being 〈◊〉 Greis and Zinne who being pardoned for the stain with Count Hardeck at Rab most couragiously with the rest now assaulted the Breach but were notably repulsed retiring with the loss of 150 men Zinne himself being slain with Ruger a Captain and some of the Count his Guards Greis was wounded in the Head and the yonger Lord Schuendi with other Captains grievously hurt Next day 600 Mountain people came supplicating the Count not to give over the siege till he had won the City promising in their names who sent them to repair of their own cost all harms yea though he should lay the City even with the ground the harmes they daily received from the Garrison being so great Then also was the Count advertised by his espials of whom he maintained many that Mahomet had written to the Bassa of Buda carefully to provide that his beloved Strigonium took no harm and not to spare for men or money to relieve it in time and doe nothing therein without the advice of old Alis Beg a long time Governour thereof and that nothing might be wanting he had sent Alexander Aga of the Janizaries whom he could ill spare whose Counsell and help he might also use for he had rather lose some other Kingdom than that City wherefore he should upon the price of his head beware it were neither won nor yielded on composition which severe Command the Bassa sent to Strigonium with most grievous threats from himself if they terrified with any thing should not hold it out to the last man swearing to empail those on stakes who should consent to a yielding Alis hereupon to deter the Souldiers from a thought of yielding diligently enquired if any of them had at any time made any motion of yielding or murmured against their Commanders in any service and whom he found so to have done he presently executed and then went into the lower Town to see that nothing were wanting or amisse where most danger was but when he would have returned the Janizaries stayed him saying Seeing he was so couragious and their Governour he should there stay and take such part as they did were it better or worse Now the Bassaes of Buda and Temeswar with divers Sanzacks were assembling their forces for relief of Strigonium whereupon the Transilvanian made shew as if he would besiege Temeswar so that that Bassa was glad to return for defence of his own charge they also of Stiria Carinthia and Croatia with Serinus's Troops so stopped all passages that 12000 Turks coming from Zigeth and thereabouts could not joyn 〈◊〉 the rest for the Citie 's relief The Count having made a notable Fort upon St. Thomas Hill placed therein 5 great Culverins greatly hurting the upper-Town by a furious Battery so that none also could go betwixt the upper and lower Towns but he was endangered by those or Musketiers who defended by them lay waiting to that end on the side of the Hill in Caves and bushes but Gokara Town and Fort on the other side of Danubius besieged by Palfi was most shaken by the great Ordnance wherefore the Count increased the battery continuing it till the Counter-scarfe was beaten down and fair breaches made in the wall The Moravians July 21 assaulted it in five places whom Palfi seconded with his Hungarians some being appointed to bring with them things to fire the Town so that in time of the aslaut the Town was all on a light fire The Turks having notably resisted now being overpressed and the fire so encreasing that it caught hold of the lower Town on the other side of the River the rest were all slain by the Christians The fire being quenched they repaired the breaches and left therein a strong Garrison A night or two after 200 Turkish Horse being descryed fast by an Alarum was raised in the Camp as if all their Army had been at hand yet it was afterwards known they were onely Scouts sent out to view how the Christians lay encamped A young Countrey Fellow being the latter end of this moneth secretly sent out of the City was taken by Palfi and sent to the Count who friendly demanded of him Whence he came Whither going and whereabouts who answered he was sent by the Governour with Letters to the Bassa of Buda which he presently delivered unto him the purport whereof were that if the Bassa did not within 6 or 7 dayes ayd and relieve him he should be forced through want of necessaries to abandon the City or yield it up so the Count causing them to be closed up again gave the
Bassa and Bogdanus the expulsed Vayuod with many others of great name Sinan by an exceeding chargeable Bridge made of Boats passed danubius at a Town called Zorza or St. George in Valachia a great way beneath where Trajan once built his famous Bridge of stone thence he marched to Tergovista then in the Turks power whose Monastery he turned into a Castle fortifying it with deep Trenches strong Bulwarks and Ordnance purposing to make it the Seat of his Warre till he had reduced those revolted Countries The Prince set forward to meet him and to give battel but encamping in Valachia a great Eagle is reported to descend from a Rock called the Kings Rock and hovering over the Army flew about and lighted on the Princes Tent which taken he commanded her to be kept as a good presage So Octob. 15th being come with in half a dayes march of Tergovista he heard by two Christians escaped from the Turks that two dayes before the Turks hearing of his coming were so terrified that Sinan could scarce stay the Janizaries from flight and when he had done all some Companies went quite away but indeed Sinan as fearful as his Army upon the Princes approach fled leaving behind him all his Tents and Warlike Provision carrying away onely things of most value Tergovista and the Castle he committed to Hassan and Bogdanus with 4000 choise Souldiers promising in few dayes if need were to relieve them so fleeing to Bucaresta whence he presently wrote to Hassan willing him if he could to defend it but if he thought it not possible so to do then in time to forsake it but these Letters being intercepted never came to his hands Ere long the Prince entred the forsaken Camp where he found what they had left and forthwith summoned both City and Castle which yet were denied him but next day Hassan considering the Princes power and doubting of relief from Sinan whom he not without cause suspected not to love him was about to yield on some reasonable Composition but the Garrison most Janizaries would in no case give consent whereupon the Prince after some few houres furious battery took City and Castle by assault putting them all to the Sword except Hassan as taken with his own hand and two other Sanzacks Bogdanus the Renegate being slain There was a rich prey and store of all Warlike provision Hassan grievously complained that Sinan had maliciously exposed him to so manifest danger for the grudge he bare his Father Muhamet yet he craved good usage of the Prince offering for his Ransom ten hundred thousand Hungarian Duckats While the Prince lay at Tergovista came thither four thousand Turks sent to spoyl and seek for prey thinking Sinan had been there still who were all slain and 60000 head of Cattel recovered which they had taken out of Valachia and Moldavia to have been sent to Constantinople for those two Countries so abound with Corn and Cattel that they plentifully serve Constantinople with Corn and flesh and at least 150 Ships laden yearly thither with other Victualls of all which the Turks were now deprived The Prince strongly garrisoning Tergovista set forward to Bucaresta but Sinan was fled thence also to Zorza the Prince had in Bucaresta some field-Pieces and good store of Shot and Powder left there by Sinan and staying there a while for manning of the place he so speedily set forward towards Zorza that he overtook a great number of Turks slaying them all so that the fields were in many places covered with dead bodies yet the fearful Bassa was about six houres or more before him come to his Bridge over Danubius over the hithermost part whereof about a mile long was Sinan with most of his Army got into an Island in the midst of the River wherein he had at his coming over encamped but the Prince being come he with all speed got over the other part of the Bridge to the further side of the River with what men he could breaking and 〈◊〉 the Bridge on that side whereby many of his men not yet come over were cut off the Prince forcing many into the River where they perished others fleeing into the Island were pursued and either slain or seeking to get over by the other part of the Bridge broken down and the hither end now cut off by the Christians were with the Bridge carried away by the Rivers violence Other Christians the while took the Bridge that leadeth to Zorza Castle which encompassed with an Arm of Danubius and not very great was kept by 700 choise Souldiers which the Prince besieging and the Souldiers resolved to hold it out to the last man after soare battery took it by force and put all to the Sword he could lay hands on about 100 Turks desperately leaping from the top of the Castle into the River were all drowned or slain with small shot 250 Christians being here lost and many wounded but between the 18th and 31 of October above 26 Turks and Tartars perished They took herein 39 great Pieces and Warlike provision enough for a whole Kingdom 4000 Captive Valachians beside Women and Children being also delivered with whom the Prince returned in triumph to Tergovista thence to Alba Julia where as at 〈◊〉 Cities throughout his Dominions he caused publick prayers with Thanksgiving to be made for so great a Victory as did Michael the Vayuod of Valachia who in all these Wars was not inferior to Sigismund It was by some of the better sort of Turks taken reported that Sinan should oft say 〈◊〉 young Prince had bereft him of all the honour he had with great Travel got in all the course of his life and though he had escaped his hands yet he feared he would be the cause of losing his life with goods and honour After the overthrow of this great Bassa the Transilvanian Prince his name became dreadful to the Turks and famous 〈◊〉 all Christendom Whom the mean tars were worsted with the Ioss of 3000 men The 〈◊〉 and Sidriack finding that without his leave he could not pass sent to the Polonian excusing what was past as done without their consent telling him They came not to fight with him as having express command from Mahomet not to disturb the League betwixt him and the Polonians but quietly to pass into Moldavia and there to place Sidriack his Tributary instead of usurping Stephen craving his leave to pass He answered He was come thither by the Kings command to defend those Countries from wrongful invasion and that he would keep inviolate the conditions of the ancient League yet so as that Poland took no harm thereby but might quietly live by the Turk 〈◊〉 his good neighbour protesting the League was not by him but by them infringed to whom he could not give passage Yet at last Articles were agreed on to the reasonable content of the Tartar and Chancellor as also of the Turkish Sultan though not of Sidriack disappointed of his Vayuodship so the Tartar returned
with his multitude But far was it from Zomoschi's thought though the common opinion was so to do the Transilvanian Prince any good by keeping out the Tartars who envying at his glory had with the Cardinal his Brother the Princes Uncles conspired what they could his utter ruin wishing rather those Countries subjected to the Turk than to see them so at liberty governed by the Prince presently after the departure of the Tartars he passing the River Nijester into Moldavia when the Prince was going against Sinan seized the Castle of Chotjim which he garrison'd thence marching to Zorona the Metropolis had it yielded unto him had soon almost all the Country delivered unto him Stephen fleeing from place to place before him from whom he least feared any such thing The Chancellour presently placed one Jeremiah Vayuod in Stephen's room to hold it of the Polonian King yet he sent to 〈◊〉 requesting him not to take it ill that he had entered Moldavia placing a Vayuod there but in Mahomet's Name to confirm his deeds promising this new Vayuod should pay him the Tribute behind and for future a far greater than had Moldavia before But the haughty Bassa not fearing to be driven out of those Countries by the Prince answered It was not the Sultans mind that the Polonians should invade Moldavia for besides his ability without them to reduce those Countries he had given it to the Tartar in reward of his good service already done whose Subjects would ere long be ready to possess it yet Zamoschi defended the new Vayuod but if Sinan had not been as he was presently after overthrown and driven quite out the Chancellour had not now holden Moldavia who pretended also that Moldavia did of ancient right belong to the Kingdom of Poland which the Transilvanians took to be but open wrong by which supposed Title the King and States of Poland inferred the Invasion and placing a Vayuod of Moldavia to his discretion who laboured also by forced reasons to shew them the power of the Prince to be so inferiour unto the Turks that it was to be feared he should at length be thrust out of all and so it should happen that the Polonians should have an untrusty and trouble some Neighbour c. perswading himself to find such favour with the Turkish Emperour that he should be well contented with his Invasion which proved a great trouble of the Prince and benefit to the Turk The new Vayuod not long after opening a way for the Tartars to enter 〈◊〉 by the way of the Ciculi of Alba-Julia and of Valachia Sigismund after the flight of Sinan sent some Companies of Horse and Foot to Stephen the late Vayuod to try if he could drive out the Polonians again and recover his former Dignity with which ayd and others he bloodily fought with them but being overcome and taken he was a while kept as the Prince feared to be delivered to the Turk and as is said was afterward by them 〈◊〉 put to death This foul dealing of the Polonian much grieved many Christians as tending to a generall hurt Wherefore the Emperour thought to 〈◊〉 the Polonian King by his Embassadours to desist from such invasion of the Transilvanian Prince as nothing standing with his Honour and that some good reconciliation might be made between the Prince and his Uncles the authors of all these troubles Pope Clement the 8th also sent a Messenger with like Instructions and large Letters to the King pathetically perswading him not so to prosecute his wars against the Prince but to turn his thoughts to a more peaceable and Christian-like course especially with him with whom he was so nigh linked in marriage for they married 2 Sisters he also wrote 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 like effect to Cardinal Bator and after many Admonitions cited him to Rome Which Letters dated from Rome Novemb. 8. were delivered in December the Pope sharply reproving the Cardinall and Chancellour as Authors and Contrivers of all these mischiefs The Tartar C ham also about this time sent his Embassadour to the King of Poland for confirmation of such Articles as he had before agreed on with the Chancellour whose Letters did declare the ground and purpose of his intended Expedition into Moldavia with the collusion of the Chancellour with the Turks and Tartars against the Transilvanian Prince saying When the Chancellour had promised He would take order that the Cossacks on the further side of Nijester should be utterly rooted out that they should not hereafter do any harm in the Sultans Territories and that the Presents usually sent him since the time of Solyman should no more be detained nor any harms done in any part of his Dominions he also consented that Jeremiah should hold the Vayuodship of Valachia Unto which agreement if his Majesty should consent then he should alwayes find brotherly friendship with him and all his Captains and Murzis Otherwise he did not perform the Oath and Covenants made The Embassador delivering a speech to the King to the same effect with the Letters gave him a Horse and an Arrow for a Present and was brought to a Lodging there to expect his answer At length it was given in sealed Letters which he taking much against his will requested the King to send an Embassadour to the Cham and by word to tell him what to answer to his Lord but other answer he could get none and so rewarded with a 〈◊〉 furred with Sables was dismissed without the Present requested by the Cham or any Embassadour Thus the Transilvanian Prince received more harm from the Polonians than from the Turk and 〈◊〉 for by taking away of Moldavia they weakened his strength and opened a way for the 〈◊〉 into his Country yet the Chancellour in his large Letters to the Pope alledged much for excuse of themselves with which however the Pope was contented yet it nothing pleased the Emperor and much less the Prince In the beginning of Novemb. Leucovits Governour of Carolstat the second time surprized Wihitz in the Frontiers of Croatia but not being able to take the Castle took the spoil of the City and setting it on fire departed Maximilian also attempted Zolnoc and the Christians at Strigonium and Plindenburg did with continual inroads 〈◊〉 the Turks at Buda all the latter end of this year and the beginning of the next and the Turks in Braila in Valachia fearing after the flight of 〈◊〉 to be besieged by Michael forsook the City passing over the River Danubius in such haste that 300 perished Sinan was ere long sent for to Constantinople but the old Fox knowing the fierce nature of the Sultan and warned by Ferat 〈◊〉 delay till he was the third time sent for The mean while he so wrought by his mighty friends in Court and rich rewards that he was honourably received at Court as the chiefest Bassa and being offered to be discharged of the wars as one above 80 years old he said He was born and brought
Lippa adventuring too far for booty in the Turks Territories were discovered and so beset by Turks and Tartars billetted about Temeswar that they had no way to escape so being on every side hardly charged by them they as men resolved before to die although scarce one to twenty fought most desperately and were all slain except some few which by great fortune escaped leaving to the Enemy a right bloody Victory yet hereby was the Garrison of Lippa much weakened Whereupon the Enemy forthwith prepared to besiege the Town which Barbelus the Governour foreseeing sent in post to Sigismund requesting him speedily to send him 4 or 5000 good Souldiers to whom the Prince without delay sent 8000. Shortly after whose arrival 40000. Turks and Tartars came and enclosed Lippa on every side doing very little for certain dayes The besieged the while doing them all harm they could with their plentifull great shot but news being brought that the Transilvanian was coming with a great power hereupon they presently retired to about 2 miles from Lippa where certainly understanding the report was not nor could be true they returned more straitly besieging it than before and battered the Town with 17 pieces then giving thereunto divers desperate assaults but were still with great slaughter repulsed for the Christians with murdering pieces out of the Towers and bulwarks flanking each other made great spoil of them In the heat of one assault the Governour as of meer desperation set open one of the gates having within placed 16 pieces at the very entrance charged with murdering shot whereupon the Enemy came thronging exceeding thick and were suddenly cut down as with a Sithe and so the third and fourth time before they could clear themselves their rent limbs most miserably flying in the ayr yet was the siege continued and by often assaults very 〈◊〉 maintained But whilst the Bassa of Temeswar lay at this siege they that were left in Temeswar lived in great security In the mean time the Governour of Lugaz sent out 6000 Souldiers now in the Bassaes absence to seek after booty who coming to Temeswar speedily rifled the Suburbs slew all the Turks they lighted on and freed 1000 captives so setting the Suburbs on fire they departed which fire grew so great that it was plainly seen into the Camp at Lippa shewing as if the whole City had been on fire which so daunted the besiegers that they most disorderly fled leaving all that they had behind them the Transilvanians who were even then comming thither pursuing them slew divers and took some prisoners At which time some Hungarian Heidons that served the Prince who was now come into the confines of Hungary getting over 〈◊〉 took Plenia a small Turkish Town which they ransacked and burnt and slaying above 3000 Turks thereaabout returned with a rich prey Not long before the Christians had surprized Clissa a strong Frontier-town in Dalmatia the Bassa of Bosna layed hard siege thereto for relief whereof Lewcowitz Governour of Stiria and other Provinces thereabouts and him of Zeng embarqued 4000 Souldiers in 42. ships well appointed so setting forward and light-on a Venetian Galley bound for the Turks Camp with warlike provision they took and rifled her The Governour landing his men at Siret marched that night part of his way and all next day lay close at night setting forward again they came to the Enemies Camp before day where assailing the secure Turks in their Trenches they as amazed fled sundry wayes every man in so sudden a fear shifting for himself leaving all behind them the Christians falling presently to the spoil and not by hasty pursuit possessing themselves of an assured Victory the Turks from the Hills discovering at day-dawning their small number and disorder came down and enclosed them on every side 〈◊〉 them downright Lewcowitz with the Governour of Zeng and some others getting into Clissa where after 2 dayes stay and doubting of safety they secretly by night issued forth with 600 men hoping to recover their Fleet but the suspitious Turks had so beset the passages that of all them Leucowitz hardly with 3 others escaped The Enemy now more straitly besieged the Town than before Whereupon the besieged now despairing of relief yielded the Town upon departure with bag and baggage About which time Palfi hearing of an Assembly of some Turks Adventurers at 〈◊〉 Castle betwixt Buda and Alba-regalis set forward from Strigonium May 22. with the greatest strength he could comming thither about 3 in the afternoon where after 3 hours dangerous and most desperate assault he with much difficulty prevailed putting man woman child to the sword 50 being Janizaries but that day come thither The Bassa of Buda oft resorted to this beautifull and pleasantly scituated Castle for his pleasure wherefore Palsi much desired to take it without spoiling but the fire already raised burnt down all the goodly Buildings and left no more Victuals or other provision than what the Christians had saved for themselves Lippa being by a great chance 〈◊〉 before the Prince his comming he besieged Temeswar but 40000 Turks and Tartars came to raise the siege of that famous City Wherefore the Prince rose and went to meet them and had a terrible battel doubtful for a while yet seeming rather to encline to the Enemy who at length disordered with the Artillery and the Transilvanians charging them afresh gave ground and so fled 5000 Turks and Tartars being slain and 1500 Christians the Prince himself being for a time reported though falsly to be 〈◊〉 After this he returned to the siege leaving nothing unattempted that he could devise to win the City but news was brought him that Giaffer Bassa and the Tartars were comming with a great Army to relieve it Whereupon considering the power of the Enemy and his promised ayd not yet ready he with great grief retired with his Army to Lippa expecting supplies both of his own and friends and was there advertised that the Bassa of Mahomet's 〈◊〉 was at Belgrade with 14000 Horse and 4000 Janizaries to joyn with the Bassa of Buda to relieve Temeswar in all about 60000 and that Mahomet himself was comming after with a far greater power Wherefore leaving a strong Garrison at Lippa he returned to Alba Julia there assembling his States for repressing so puissant an Enemy Mahomet although the Tartar at first said he would not send so much as an Asse thereunto had by great gifts and his own respect with the Tartar made him now ready with a strong Army upon the Frontiers of Moldavia to meet him in Hungary to whom that Vayuod sent Presents with what Victuals he could possibly provide Mahomet also entreated with the Polonian King for his passage as also to confirm the ancient League which he knew the Emperour and other Princes sought by all means to withdraw him from He also sent an Embassadour to Michael Vayuod of Valachia both by shew of great dangers to deterr him from the Confederacy with
with the Emperour in disguised Apparel posted to Glausenburg in Transilvania where being joyfully received and taking a new Oath of his Subjects certified Maximilian appointed Governour of Transilvania and on his way as far as Cassovia of the causes of his return perswading him rather to turn his Forces for recovery of Agria than to come any farther for Transilvania whereof to his Subjects great content he was again repossessed as did also his Wife wishing him to consider what hurt and dishonour he should do to the Emperour himself Empire and whole Christian Common Weale if in so dangerous a time he should attempt any thing against her Husband to him by her so nearly allied Now the Turks 〈◊〉 Army lay under the Walls of Veradinum in upper Hungary where Basta not having strength enough to go against so mighty an Enemy or relieve the besieged City not having a sufficient Carrison he acquainted Maximilian therewith In the mean time the besieged notably defended themselves and by brave sallies did the Enemy great harm expecting that Basta Sigismund or Maximilian with divided or united Forces would send them relief whom they certified Octob. 19th that the Turks with all their Force and fury had as yet little prevailed being so repulsed c. that they well hoped to protract time till they might be by them relieved yet not doubting but the Turks would do what they might to subdue them The Transilvanian Prince taking the Field to relieve them was letted by the Tartars stirred up by the Turks to that purpose yet he sent some Companies of brave Souldiers to Basta who hearing that of 2000 good Souldiers in the City at the first there were scarce 700 left alive used a notable 〈◊〉 to delude the Enemy for comming bravely on as if he would have presently joined battel whilst the Turks were wholly busied in putting themselves in order to that end he by a way least suspected thrust into the City 800 men and so presently retired to his Trenches who returning without battel deceived by this fineness The Turks shortly after through continual foulness of the weather raised the siege now not without great 〈◊〉 and danger to be maintained leaving also behind them many Tents with some Ordnance as not able to convey them by water to Buda also greatly fearing to be encountred by Basta's Forces even then receiving new supplies from the Emperour In the mean time Matthias Swartzenburg and others with 12000 men and the Souldiers of Rab Strigonium and Komara and the Hungarian Horsmen over-ran the Country even to the Gates of Buda hoping also to have met with 8000 Turks comming towards Pesth with Victuals for Buda Castle Mahomet the mean while sent Cicala his Admirall with a great Fleet to Sea who comming upon the coast of Sicily requested that Viceroy to send him aboord his Mother Lucretia who dwelt in Messana he much desiring to see and Honour her promising so quietly to depart he considering how the 〈◊〉 for the like courtesie before denied had done great harm all along the sea-coast on condition of sending her back in safety sent her to him honorably accompanied whom Cicala her son receiving with great joy triumph and keeping her with him one day with all honor sent her back accordingly so peaceably returned without doing any harm to any part of Christendom In the mean time Michael of Valachia with good forces resolved to give an attempt upon Nicopolis in Bulgaria causing a bridge to be made over Danubius for his passage but the Bassaes of Silistra and Badova comming with all their power as the bridge was laid over upon boates attempted to break the same Michael hasting thither enforced the Bassaes to forsake the Exploit begun there being for a while a hard conflict till the Turks being greatly slaughtered were glad by a dispersed flight to save their lives So the Vayuod passing the 〈◊〉 came to Nicopolis where they of the City without resistance yielded themselves into his power who sacking firing the City carried away a great Spoyl with many Bulgarians choosing out the best and strongest to serve in his Wars and appointing the rest to inhabite and manure the waste places of Valachia The report of this overthrow and sacking brought a generall fear on the Turks even in Constantinople Wherefore Mahomet commanded his chief Bassaes with a great power taken up in haste to stop his further proceedings himself horribly threatning him Who now encouraged and knowing the Turks manuers little regarded the same Mahomet oppressed with melancholy at the raging plague in Constantinople the bloudy Wars in Hungary his ill success at Veradium and the great harm done at Nicopolis yet ceased not what he could to provide for so many evils Ordering Taut Bassa with all speed to march towards Valachia Who put himself upon the way with 600 Janizaries towards Hadrianople there to expect the rest of the Army at Spring that so being united with the Forces of Mehemet who besieged Veradium the last year he might appear more terrible to his Enemies The Emperour also was then much discontented that his men had failed of the Castle of Buda the Walloons blaming the chief Commanders who when they valiantly offered to do their utmost to win it chose rather by the Spade and Mattock than the Sword to perform the same But Michael to the Turks greater terrour and hurt made new inroads upon them so that he entred 10 Miles into their Territory against whom Mehemet comming he retired carrying away the spoyl of the wasted Country They of Buda the while fearing some sudden assault and suffering great want expected long to be relieved with necessaries yet they heard that Mahomet had given it out at Constantinople that he was raising a great power of his best Souldiers having sent for all his Old men of War such as had served in the Wars of Persia. The Turks the while providing to relieve distressed Buda some resolute Hungarians understanding that a Bassa was comming thither with 3000 Souldiers to encrease the Garrison lay close in Ambush where the Turks securely and disorderly passing by were overthrown and put to flight losing many Horses much Mony and Jewels many Captains being taken and the Bassa hardly escaping into the City But shortly after 400 Christians scouring the Country about Buda and returning loaded with prey were assaulted by the Turks and forced to forsake it and fight for their lives yet they notably repulsed the Turk slaying divers of them and recovering their booty returned and in upper Hungary a great power of Turks and Tartars having done great harm came before Cassovia making shew as if they would presently besiege the City so that many Inhabitants fled forthwith into the Mountains yet by the perswasion of Basta 2000 expert Souldiers stayed there 〈◊〉 him expecting what the Turks would do who demanded of them a great sum of mony as contribution threatning otherwise the utter destruction thereof which was stoutly rejected by
Basta and they with the loss of many lives forced to get them further from the walls Wherefore they for fear by night arose departing by another way than they came doing great harm as they went The free Haiducks of Valachia also living most upon prey by Bridges passing over Danubius overthrew the Bassa of Natolia's great power with a great slaughter and loss of his Brother then over-running the Country they did exceeding harm and took the Bassa's son prisoner Thus passed the Winter with many light skirmishes and incursions in divers parts of Hungary Maximilian the mean while comming from Prague to Vienna found in his Camp but 24000 Foot and 10000 Horse ready against next Spring divers German Princes sending this year 1599. no ayd at all by reason of troubles with the Spaniards in the lower side of Germany which made him the more to dread the Enemies comming but about this time the great Duke of Muscovy requested leave of the Polonian for 40000 Horse to pass thorow his Country to ayd the Emperour against the Turk which he would in no case grant as dangerous to his State Wherefore the Muscovite offended sent other Embassadours to the Emperour by Sea who in an English ship in Nicolas Port sayled about Sweden Norway and Denmark and after long trouble arrived at Stoad and from thence travelling by Land to Hamborough Lubeck and Maidenborough came to the Emperour then at Plissena for the plague was hot at Prague Who having delivered their Presents and Letters of Credence had audience and were most honourably used yet the Polonian suffered the Turks Embassadour calling himself Gabriel a Jew to pass thorow his Country to the Emperour to entreat of peace which Gabriel comming to Prague and having no Letters of Credence to shew for he said They were taken from him upon the way by the Polonian Cossacks and some of his retinue slain was taken for a Spy and sent to Vienna where at first he was well used in an Inne but the night following the Martial clapt him fast in prison with as many Irons as he could bear and all his followers with gyves on their leggs were compelled to work daily in the Town-ditch About this time Sigismund of Transilvanian gave a most manifest token of an unconstant Nature to the great wonder of the World for he having again taken upon him the Government and withall requested himself and the Transilvanians to be discharged of their Oath of Loyalty to the Emperour and Veradinum with the adjacent Country to be restored unto him and the Emperour pausing thereupon did now doubting of his ability to keep that Country in the beginning of 1599. by his Embassadours request the Emperour to have the first Agreements again renewed and a Principality in Moravia added to the 2 Dukedoms in Silesia with 50000 Duckats yearly out of the Imperiall Chamber and a generall pardon for all the Transilvanians that following him had lately revolted from the Emperour and their antient liberties confirmed All which Conditions being obtained they returned from Prague Apr. 19. But Sigismund in the mean time consulting with some of the Polonian Nobility far differing from the former Agreement and sending for a Turks Chiaus and for his cousin the proud Cardinall out of Borussia met them in a Village towards Polonia accompanied with some of his chiefest States and there in the presence of the Polonians and the Chiaus resigned all Right Title in Transilvania to the Cardinall commanding the States to swear Obedience and Fidelity unto him who shortly after with the Polonian Embassadour sent a special Favourite to Constantinople to desire safe conduct for his Embassadors thither who were both courteously received in the Turks Court and as with a special favour rewarded with right sumptuous Garments and charged that the Cardinall should within 3 months send thither a solemn Embassadour with the accustomed Tribute Thus Transilvania one of the strongest Fortresses of that side of Christendom became again Triburary to the Turk The Turks of Buda not able longer to endure the great Famine had most earnestly requested relief from their Friends in Hungary Who comming near to Buda could not put into it such provision as they had brought the Imperials about a League off diligently attending every motion of the Enemy whence Swartzenburg secretly approachiug by night to one of the gates thought with a Petard to have broken it open but the gate being within strongly fortified he was forced to depart being also discovered from the wall Shortly after the Bassa issuing out with 600 Horse to meet with Victuals coming thither fell into an Ambush of the Haiducks who putting him to flight took him prisoner his Horse falling under him whom his Souldiers seeking to rescue they encreased their former overthrow with the loss of most of those left the Bassa's son and Aga of the Janizaries losing their lives The Bassa being brought to the Camp was with great threats forced to reveal the state of his City with other Turkish designs Whereupon the Haiducks returned towarks Buda 〈◊〉 by all means to stop the comming of Victuals thither hoping at length to gain the City but newes was brought them that the Bassa of Bosna with 3 Zanzacks were comming with 10000 men to oppress them who went to meet them and in a place of good advantage upon their first appearance with great courage charging them brake their Arrays and slew most of them with the Bassa himself yet had not Palsi in time sent in some 〈◊〉 Companies it was doubted the Haiducks had been worsted about 300 being already slain Nevertheless the Tartars held on their way purposing by over-running the Country to have withdrawn the Imperialls from the City but Swartzenburg his Regiment onely going against them so overthrew them that part being slain and part driven into Danubius most of them there perished Basta at that time lay at Cassovia with 18000 men doubting lest the Turk Army which he heard was at hand should come and besiege it In the mean time Ibraim Bassa came to Solnoch with 50000 men 10000 being Janizaries yet hearing that Basta waited his comming at Cassovia he retired back to Belgrade a place of more security expecting a great Fleet to bring Victualls for the Army also for relief of Buda Alba regalis c. with divers battering pieces and other less pieces upon Carriages with other Instruments of Warr all guarded with 5000 Turks up Danubius Whereupon Palsi dispatched a convenient power of good and valiant Souldiers to cut off this Convoy who suddenly assayling them and comming to handy blows cut them in pieces and rifled the ships most whereof were there sunk and took a booty deemed to be worth a million of Gold and 100000 Dollars there found were all divided among the Souldiers This being known at Buda and other Cities greatly terrified them yea Ibraim's Army grew much discontented as disappointed of Victuals and pay besides the Imperials ransacked and destroyed the Villages and
with some Ordnance and most of the Baggage the rest the while retiring farther off into more safe places The Turks now returning to the siege the Garrison a few dayes after despairing of timely relief mutined refusing any longer to defend the Town hardly layed to and the rather because divers Hungarians were fled out of the Town having as was thought revealed to the Bassa the state of the besieged yet Paradiser the Governour and some other Captains did what they might as they said afterward to have perswaded the contrary Whereupon they covenanted with the Bassa with bag and baggage to depart and to be safely convoyed over the River Mur 〈◊〉 Octob. 22. the Town was cowardly delivered After the Agreement made for yielding up the Town the Bassa sent Paradiser a very rich Gown of cloth of Gold which although he refused yet was it afterwards laid to his charge as a presumption of some treacherous collusion betwixt them for it was thought he might have kept the Town much longer Ibrahim now fortified the Town more strongly than before putting into it 4000 Foot and 500 Horse all old Souldiers and then forraged the Country round about Canisia burning all as he went the poor Inhabitants fleeing still as fast as they could But having thus with the spoil well pleased his Souldiers he desirous to have the Country timely re-peopled stayed their outrage upon a great pain by open proclamations in every place set up inviting the Christians without fear to return into the Country where submitting to the Sultans Obeysance they should safely dwell and no Tribute to be exacted of them for 3 years following that they might the better recover themselves Whereupon many not knowing where to bestow themselves returned to their ancient dwellings But since Count Serinus was the man he most feared after his departure to trouble his new Conquest and seek revenge who in this generall calamity of Stiria his Country had 20 Villages of his own quite burnt and the people most slain or taken the Bassa having many times sought to perswade him to yield Obedience to the Turk and now in hope after so great loss to bring him in before he were come to utter ruin wrote unto him again to that purpose which Letters being as the rest answered with silence and Ibrahim having disposed of all things at Canisia and thereabouts returned with his Army to Belgrade to Winter there having first certified the Sultan of all his proceedings and success vaunting next Spring to besiege Vienna also if he should so command Mahomet not a little pleased caused great triumphs for 4 dayes at Constantinople sending a rich Robe of cloth of Gold with a Leading-staffe set with Pearls and precious Stones unto the Bassa at Belgrade The loss of Canisia much troubled all that side of Christendom chiefly those of the Austrian Territories all men blaming the discord of the Captains who retired without doing any good but above all detesting the cowardise of Paradiser who if he had done the utmost of his devoir perhaps the cold and unseasonable Winter-weather though no other relief had been might have forced the Turks to raise the siege Wherefore he was by the Emperour's command imprisoned at Vienna where his cause being often examined he was the year following condemned of Felony and Cowardise and Octob. 15. had first his hand at 4 stroâ—ks struck off and after that his head so also was his Ensign bearer executed and after them his Lievt with the Mayor of the Town who both bound to a stake had first their heads cut out then their heads chopt off Now the Rebellion raised in Caramania by Cusahin was not with his death wholly 〈◊〉 also Orsa a great City still held out against 〈◊〉 Bassa Then also a Companion of 〈◊〉 called the 〈◊〉 seeing how hardly Cusahin and his followers had been handled called unto him all such as loved their Liberty unto which sweet name so many soon came about him as out of them he framed a dreadfull Army against whom 〈◊〉 Bassa going with all his power they so couragiously joyned battel with him that he received a notable overthrow so that he was glad to retire and send out Commissions for raising of greater Forces Mahomet the while whether for fear of this new Rebellion or understanding of the Embassadours sent from the Persian to the Christian Princes he suspecting that King might break his League with him sent an Embassadour into Persia demanding of the King for the more assurance of the League one of his Sons to be sent to him in Hostage upon which so proud a demand the Persian King commanded the Embassadour to be forthwith slain but his fury by his Counsellours being somewhat appeased he was contented he should in contempt be put to the Bastinado only and so grievously threatned sent back to his Master who now in doubt of some further matter from that angry King garrisoned strongly all his strong Holds confining upon the Persian The Emperour much troubled with the loss of Canisia and in doubt of worse to come though Ibrahim did afresh treat with him of peace with great instancy requested ayd of the Pope and other Princes of Italy in 1601. So the Pope at first of the Spring sent him 8000 Souldiers in pay under his Nephew 〈◊〉 King Philip also ordered Count Fuentes to send into Croatia certain Bands of the Dutchess who by his direction were conducted to Millain the Duke of Florence likewise sent him 2000 Souldiers under de Monte with whom also went John de 〈◊〉 whom Ferdinand the Arch-Duke requested to be Master of his Camp Thither came also the Duke of Mantua both with Horse and Foot being made by the Arch-Duke his Lievtenant General The Emperour sent also another good Army into Hungary under the leading of Matthias and the Duke Mercurie his Lievtenant Gen. He made also a third Army which strengthened with the Forces of Don Ferrant Gonzaga joyned with Basta for recovery of Transilvania out of which he had bin of late driven In the mean time many hot skirmishes passed in Hungary betwixt the Christians and Turks But the time being come for taking the field Ibrahim Bassa being before dead at Belgrade and Hassan a Visier Bassa appointed Generall in his place yet delaying his comming and the Parly for peace layed aside as never intended by the Turks but to dally off time to their own advantage Duke Mercury came with his Army from Comara where he lay expecting the event of the parly and laid siege to Alba regalis one of the chiefest and strongest Cities of Hungary which he for certain dayes continually battered as if he had purposed to have taken it by assault but being informed by a Fugitive that the broad Lake on the other side of the City was not so deep but it might be passed over against the opinion of the Turks Captives and Inhabitants whom he had examined and that the Turks thinking themselves on that side safe had
turned almost all their care and Forces unto that side of the City which he had battered He appointed Lord Rusworme to prove if those Zigeth-Suburbs were not to be surprized which being taken the City could not long hold out For undertaking of which enterprize he was by the captive Turks and Country people much discouraged who nevertheless sent certain of his men to try the Lake who brought word that it was undoubtedly though with much difficulty to be passed Whereupon he with 1000 select Souldiers with every one a good Faggot on his back beside his Arms to fill up the deepest of the Marsh by night entered it wherein he had not gone far but he found it much deeper and more troublesome than his Spies had reported but carried with an invincible courage these adventurous men going still up in Water and mud unto the waste where 't was shallowest where also if one missed but a step he was over head and eares and in danger of drowning if he were not by his fellowes presently holden They at length got over but with the loss of six or seven men a little before day Whereof the Duke being advertised by a sign with greater stir than at any time before assailed that side of the City where he lay and in the mean time 〈◊〉 with Ladders provided sealed the Walls on th' other side and almost unperceived recovered the top thereof and so being got into the Suburbs with a terrible cry assailed the Turks who not well knowing which way to turn without great resistance fled into the City the Christians following them with a great slaughter in which so great confusion the Duke took the rest of the Suburbs the Turks there also for feare forsaking them and retiring with all haste into the City The Christians besides other rich prey here took 14 great pieces with good store of shot and powder The Duke now again summoned the City whereunto the Turks gave no answer but by their pieces whereat the Duke much displeased sent them word he would send them other manner of Messengers to morrow and by Gods help sup with them in the City though unwelcome So next day having made two fair Breaches into the City he with great slaughter of the Enemy entered the same though the Turks cast downe upon the Christians Darts Wild-fire c. But seeing they must needs now give place they fled amain into their Houses there to defend themselves or die many whereof they had so undermined that they could easily overthrow them and as many as should come within danger of them so that the Temple-pallace with many other sumptuous buildings were left all rent and torn yet the Bassa upon promise of life yielded himself and was sent to the Camp the rest of the Souldiers being all or most of them put to the Sword The Walloons breaking by heaps into the richest Houses both took what themselves lighted on and stript the Germans of what they had gotten yea they opened the Tombs of the Hungarian Kings to spoyl the dead of such things as were for honours-fake long before enterred with them shewing themselves therein more barbarous than the Turks The Bassa of Buda then laying a prisoner at Vieuna hearing of the taking of this City fasted with his 2 servants a whole day prostrate on his face and praying to his Prophet Mahomet who had as he said all this year been angry with the Turks Now Hassan the Turkish Generall was comming to relieve Alba-regalis and though he heard by the way that the City was won yet taking with him the Bassa of Buda with the other Commanders thereabouts and having formed an Army of about 60000 but most raw Souldiers he held on his way thitherwards both to give some content to his angry Lord and hoping to overthow the Christian Army or at least to regain the City as yet unrepaired But the Duke had presently repaired the Breaches and put therein a strong Garrison of expert Souldiers and being himself about 20000 strong set forward to meet the Bassa beginning a hot and bloudy skirmish with him yet the Bassa next day sent away part of his Army to prove if the City might be recovered himself the mean while offering the Christians battel so to busie them But the Duke informed of the basenesse of the Bassa's Souldiers although he were in number far above him went out and encountred him and at the first onset disordering his foremost Squadrons sorced the Turks to retire with the loss of 6000 men among whom were the Bassa of Buda 6 Zanzacks and divers others of good place and note The Duke also took from them divers Ordnance and had not a great squadron of Tartars appeared at his back he had undoubtedly overthrown all the Bassa's Army but now contenting himself with the Victory already gotten he retired orderly into his Trenches having not lost above 300 men Whilst both Armies thus lay supplies repairing unto them and expecting a day of generall battel the Janizaries still murmuring that it was now no time of the year to keep the field enforced the Bassa to retire to Buda and disband his Army in which retreat many were by the Christians cut off in the Rear and many taken 50 being of the French mutineers of Pappa whom Matthias at the instance of Duke Mercurie pardoned They also who were sent to attempt Alba-regalis were so welcomed with shot and charged with often sallies that despairing to prevail they returned to the Bassa that sent them About the time that the Duke began to besiege Alba-regalis Ferdinand the Arch-Duke now 30000 strong by the advise of the Duke of Mantua his Lievt Gen. resolved to besiege Canisia the recovery whereof much concerned even Italy it self Whereupon he came and encamped before it Septemb. 10. And although the Turks in Garrison not past a 1000 with their often and gallant sallies much troubled the Christians and that other bands of the Turks came many times out of the strong Holds thereabouts to skirmish with them and to see if they could put any more Souldiers into the Town yet both in the one place and the other The Turks were to their cost still repulsed and put to flight losing also some small Castles and Forts The Christians found means to dry the Marsh a little that invironed the Town and to fill it up on one side and to come so near the Town that having planted 3 tire of Artillery against it they began furiously to batter it Yea at length they approached so nigh that they came with their Trenches even close to the Town-ditch perswading the Turks now whilst they might upon good conditions to yield and so save their Lives But they braving the Christians said They would keep the place for the Sultan in despight of all their Forces Whereupon it was resolved to give a general assault In the mean time the news of the winning of Alba-Regalis caused great Joy and Triumph in the Camp the Christians
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 〈◊〉
great losse being fought with by the Valachians and free Haiducks a whole day and came into Hungary in the latter end of December the Han with forty thousand to Quinque Ecclesia and his two Sonnes with twenty thousand into Possega where they spoiled both Turks and Christians pretending all that frontier Countrey to be given to them by the Sultan in reward of their service But ere long they forced the Christians thereabouts to victuall Canisia for the Turks and so breaking into Stiria not far from Caramant they carried away above two thousand Captives then surprising Keschemet they slew most of the Inhabitants of that great Town carrying away the rest prisoners Others of them also inroading to Sharvar and burning down twenty Villages carried away thence about 1000 into captivity At their first coming they also relieved them of Buda Nadasti with his Hussars not being able now longer to keep them from Victuals by them also the Turks encouraged took and burnt certain places of the Christians nigh Buda slaying all they found therein Against these Tartars for all this the Christians beside their ordinary Garrisons began in Winter to oppose some of their other forces the Palatine of 〈◊〉 sending ten Troops of Horse for defence of Stiria and Collonitz raising 400 Horse 1000 Hussars and 3000 free Haiducks for repressing of them the Duke of Brunswick also sending 1000 Horse and 2000 Foot for the same service January with a sharp Frost began the next year 1603 whereby the 〈◊〉 in many places seemed rather wholly turned into ice than frozen Danubius also for all his swift course being so hard frozen that men and carts might safely passe thereupon which so cold a season did rather increase the hot desires of the greedy Turks Wherefore out of their Garrisons they raised 18000 men to have forraged and over-run the Christians with their Territories confining upon them Quermanie and places thereabouts being assigned first to feel their force whereupon Collonitz with all speed put into the Suburbs of Quermanie one thousand Reisters and two thousand Lansquenets and in the Boroughs added to the Regiment of Count Reingrave six Companies of Cossacks 4000 Haiducks 400 Carabins French and Walloons 200 Horse of his own Regiment himself commanding over all these Troops and withall 〈◊〉 all the Inhabitants thereabouts to take up Arms and with strong Barricadoes to strengthen the wayes and stop up the passages into their Countrey which they chearfully performed with Weapons in one 〈◊〉 and Spades and Shovels in the other wherefore the Turks changed their former design for the invading of Quermany where the Christians had for five weeks expected them marching along by Roquesbourg with purpose to load themselves with spoil of the Countrey but Collonitz collecting his forces frustrated their new design by favour of the River which strengthened him against their incursions and was well to be defended so that the Turks whose intent was not to fight again retired contenting themselves to gather a Convoy of Victuals to put into Canisia which then extreamly wanted so they came to Babotz thence to march to Canisia of which their purpose Collonitz by his espials advertised upon a brave resolution on March 24 with his Troops marched towards little Comara about two Leagues from Canisia and lay close in Ambush in the Woods near two Marshes over which the Turks had made two Bridges to pass the Artillery and Waggons upon who were nigh 20000 strong and Collonitz but two thousand-two hundred Horse and six thousand Foot But 40 of the 200 surprized Waggons going to Buda with Victuals being by them of Strigonium and Comara sent to Pesth the Turks of Buda hearing of that medley and knowing it was for their bread posted to succour their Troops and arrived at the very time that the Victors led along by Danubius the Waggons before gained furiously charging them so that the Christians daunted with the unexpected perill the Turks being 1500 〈◊〉 in number than they without more ado quite 〈◊〉 the Waggons accounting themselves happy enough if they might but save themselves and the Turks contented to have recovered their Victuals pursued them not but returned home along the Bank of the River but two thousand of the Garrison of Pesth seizing on a Forrest whereby the Turks must pass at unawares hardly charged them afront and behind so that the Turks enclosed without any great resistance fled leaving their Waggons and casting away their Arms a number being left dead on the place some taken prisoners and the rest chased even to the gates of their City So the Victors of Pesth returning 〈◊〉 by their Ordnance gave many Testimonies of their Victory But see again the change of Fortune 〈◊〉 was then also as it is often 〈◊〉 hard frozen that men and Carts might safely pass it in which so hard season the Turks in Buda having once upon the frozen River 〈◊〉 the Christians in Pesth and Jan. 22. in like bravery coming out the second time were by them of Pesth put to flight and by 200 of the most forward and valiant hardly pursued upon whom not onely they which fled but othèr Turks out of Buda in great number returning chased them back again even to the Bridge of Pesth which now drawn up for fear of so many Turks as were ready to have entered at the heels of the fleeing Souldiers they were even in fight of their friends every man slain the Turks with little harm returning Few dayes after one Lethner a Captain in Pesth more grieved than the rest with this loss some being his Friends and Companions also hearing that some of the chief Turks of Buda and a great train of Gentlewomen were for their pleasure next day to go to the hot Baths near Buda with 60 Musquetiers by night passed over the River and not far from the Baths lay in close Ambush so these Turks casting no perill came accordingly merrily bathing and solaceing themselves but in the midst of their delights these resolute men came suddenly upon them slaying all the men sparing none but one Boy and the Gentlewomen who in the time of conflict ran naked as they were into the City which exploit done the Captain returned laden with rich booty and merrily sporting at the naked Gentlewomen at whose fearfull cry they of Buda sent out certain Souldiers after them but they were safely before got home By continuance of this frost Victuals could not be sent down the River to Pesth so that the Souldiers there accounted Dogs and Cats good meat the Turks still roaming about to 〈◊〉 them from Victuals Of which necessities they of Buda were partakers also yet every 〈◊〉 in field to seek relief and that they might deceive those of Pesth and assure themselves of Victuals they gave out and made shew as if they would besiege the Fort of Adom under which colour they received into Buda 50 Waggons laden with Victuals and Munition and encouraged herewith they gave knowledge thereof to their Neighbors
of Basta making choice of a most fit time for the performance thereof for Basta upon the trust he now had of the Transilvanian's allegiance being with a small power come from Claudionopolis then laying at Wiscebourg upon the confines of Hungary the Transilvanians believed that through the necessity of his presence in Hungary he should stay there for that year as the Emperour 's General◠whereupon many both of the Nobility and others before by Moyses prepared and now by his presence encouraged joyned themselves unto him against the Imperials Moyses first forced a Castle about three Leagues from Wiscebourg and slew all the Garrison which exploit encouraging him and full of hope in the absence of Basta he as Master of the Field forraged robbed and spoiled besieging Wiscebourg a small Town neither by art or nature strong howbeit it held out three weeks siege and having a breach made in the Walls endured two Assaults After which the besieged out of hope to be relieved by the weak forces of Basta yielded to him the Town upon saving their lives and goods and so departed to 〈◊〉 Albeit the Haiducks failed not to follow these Warres in Transilvania and were ever taking some prey from the Enemy the chiefest meanes whereby they live not a little also easing thereby the Countrey by repressing the excursions and pillages of the Turks where among other prisoners they lighted upon a Chiaus come from Constantinople going toward Moyses from the Sultan Mahomet who examined confessed that Moyses was in great grace with his Lord and Master of which he was sent to assure him as also of all the needful assistance of his Prince if he should bring Transilvania under his subjection as he had promised sworn whereby he should not onely gain credit but be made Lievtenant Gen. of the Sultan's Army there he said also that Mahomet had on foot an Army of 150000 men to conquer Pesth and Strigonium which had already made towards Hungary had it not been for some Rebellion whom for all that he would soon chastise and turn his whole Forces upon the Emperour Moyses finding much Ordnance in Wiscebourg resolved to besiege Basta in Sosinnar whither Basta came with his small forces But he better acquainted with Martiall affaires than Moyses thought best first to take order for strengthning of the place and then to provide as he could for the safety of himself and his wherefore he advertising the Governour of Cassova of his necessity he presently commanded six Companies of Horsemen to thrust into Sosinnar for the better defence thereof who either fearing or favouring the Rebels Army without any attempt at all given returned to Cassova much provoking the Countrey by the way by their pilfering and out-rages but now craving pardon of their Governour who was about with the rest of his power to cut them in pieces they offered him six principall Authours of their disloyalty who were forthwith executed and their quarters hanged upon Gibbets by the high way side but Basta the while was without succour and the place wherein he lay in danger of taking howbeit the TRANSILVANIANS thereabouts resolved to relieve him both for fear of the TURKS bondage and of the tyranny of MOYSES one of whose Secretaries with Letters of Credence threatned all the Countrey with all kind of miseries if they helped not with all their power to force and win the place Amongst others RADOL of VALACHIA raised immediately eight thousand men which he presently sent to the relief of Basta Moyses hearing hereof and also that Basta having well fortified the place was departed assuring his men there left to relieve them and that he was gathering together his Army of himself raised his Siege and departed whom the TURKS forthwith forlook being called back by the Bassa of Temeswar to repress the Haiducks who in the absence of most of the Garrison had desperately assailed those Suburbs slaying all they found there and rifling and burning them and so returned to VERADIN yet not so contented were every day abroad seeking after new booty which caused the Bassa to call the TURKS home into their Garrisons Moyses notwithstanding was yet Master of the Field Basta not daring to oppose him the Succours from Valachia being not yet come which he daily expected yet there were many hot skirmishes betwixt the stragling Souldiers on both sides as they met seeking after booty Moyses therefore laid siege to Claudionopolis a great but weak City and for that cause not very well manned Howbeit the Souldiers and Inhabitants standing upon their defence Moyses was constrained to batter it and in very short time had made a very fair breach ready now to have given the assault whereupon the besieged gave up the City the Citizens having life goods liberty and Religion saved and to stay there still and the Souldiers with Arms and Baggage to be safely brought over the Mountains into some place of surety The Rebell much encouraged resolved to make this the Seat of his Principality The Turks and Tartars allured with the smell of riches repaired thither on every side so that Moyses's Army hope and fortune encreased sending to Temeswar for his Wife and Family to come to him to Claudionople with a Convoy of four hundred Turks who being come thither and about to have led the Wife and Family out of the City were not suffered by the Janizaries so to do telling him The Sultan had found so many disloyalties treacheries and treasons in the Hungarians Transilvanians and Valachians that doubting of the fidelity of Moyses he was resolved to keep this gage for more assurance and that they should receive nothing from him but favour so long as he received from Moyses the effects of his loyalty but he should never hope to enjoy them but in Temeswar or some such like place assured for his service Moyses astonied was much moved against the Sultan complaining in his soul that having ruinated his faith honour and the welfare of his Countrey to assure him of his fidelity he yet doubted of his constancy c. In the mean time the Valachian-Succours were upon the borders of Transilvania under the Conduct of Marsa the Vayuods Lievtenant and Basta was gathering together his forces hourly expecting 2000 Horsemen out of Silefia wherefore Moyses marched with 30000 men to cut off the Valachians before they could come far into Transilvania or joyn with Basta learning the place where they were to enter their numbers and the way they were to hold so the Valachians being but 8000 and the Turks and Tartarian Horsemen being at their backs must needs fight or die Necessity indeed gave courage to the weaker side yet the greater number at length prevailed so that after a great fight wherein a great number of Turks and Tartars were slain the Valachians left their dead Companions with Tents and Baggage and fled yet often making stands The Rebels now fearing no harm divided the spoil filling the Heavens with the noise of Trumpets
a great and rich prey Much about this time Barbell a chief Rebell in Transilvania acknowledging his fault came to 〈◊〉 to swear his Allegiance whereby a great many others submitted also but Barbell 〈◊〉 after suddenly died The other Rebels not moved chose one 〈◊〉 Gabor a most renowned Captain for their Chieftain who proud hereof presently sent a Herauld to 〈◊〉 Willing him to deliver to him all Transilvania as to him lately chosen Prince or else to denounce to him most cruell War hoping without any ayd of the Turk to drive him out being well assured of the Transilvanians Basta smiling vouchsafed him 〈◊〉 other answer but the shewing him his open hand Gabor bare himself the higher for marrying Moyses's Widow gaining thereby great Riches and much credit among the common 〈◊〉 but the fourth day after he was married he dyed yet Basta put into the strong places Garrisons of his most faithfull Germans sending Crausenich to the 〈◊〉 to request 1000 Horse and 4000 Foot without which speedy supply he thought it unpossible to preserve and keep that Province troubled with so great Factions and so earnestly sought after by the Turks for want whereof he would acquit himself for the loss thereof and lay it upon the negligence of those who might and ought to have sent the same But the Bassa with his weak Army being returned out of Hungary and himself returned toward Constantinople Zellaly the Asian Rebell who had done notable service all the time of that Bassaes abode in Hungary withdrew himself with 3000 Horse into his promised Government of Bosna to possess the same encamping in a large Meadow in sight of Bagnale the chief City of that Province Zeffer Bassa not yet discharged of his Government seeing him thus encroach as if he would by force intrude himself speedily assembling his men of War went against Zellay with purpose quickly to cut his smal number in pieces but he having lost the best part of his Forces in Hungary resolved to attempt that by policy which by force he could not effect Wherefore he began to encamp himself as if he meant there to lay and presently after making great fires by night in his Tents as if to beguile the Enemy he suddenly departed Whereupon the Bassa with his Souldiers hearing thereof hasted to take the pillage of the same esteeming of Zellaly but as of a base Coward but while the Souldiers were charging themselves with the spoil which the Bassa gave unto them Zellaly the same night surprized them being asleep Some began to make head but through the generall fear and being disordered they were quickly with the rest forced overthrown and slain 6000 of the Turks being found dead on the place the Bassa himself escaping by flight with such as could get out of the Camp to follow him Zellaly marching in haste to all the chief places caused all those Inhabitants with most of the Countrey people to swear to him their faithful obedience collecting in so doing great Wealth and many brave Horses all which he put into Balnaluc a strong Town whereinto he in triumph entred with a Crown of Laurel on his Head his Souldiers singing prayses and the Ordnance continually shooting off for two dayes together giving out withall among all his joyful Feasts and triumphs that he resolved to take part with the Emperour if the great Courtiers should seek to crosse his desires or formalize this manner of obtaining his Government Mahomet in doubt of this man sent for him by divers Messengers to Constantinople to receive the rewards of his good service and valour in Hungary the greatness whereof he said he understood by Hassan Bassa so that it was his desire and pleasure to grace him in Court with his own hands for the greater Testimony of his love and esteem of him but he craftily doubting these fair words were but baits to draw him into his power c. civilly answered He most humbly thanked the Sultan c. but he desired no greater reward for his services done more than the Government his Majesty promised him whereof he was now possessed resolving to keep it for his service which he could not think but to be to his good liking But with this slie answer Mahomet must as yet content himself lest if he should have sought by force to remove him he might have raised a more dangerous Rebellion in Europe than was in Asia The business of peace the last year begun was even with the beginning of this year 1604 continued so that Commissioners on both sides were appointed to confer and conclude about the same Col. Althem being one who with the other Commissioners and some other Captains landed in the Island betwixt Buda and Pesth the Turks of Buda coming forthwith thither also with all outward shewes of their most earnest desire for concluding a peace but the Christians assured that necessity and not a desire of quietness had drawn them to seek for it shewed themselves very backward herein knowing they did it but to overtake them c. Jan. 5th the Bassa of Buda had appointed with the other Commissioners to come into the Isle but at length Letters came from him to Althem excusing his not coming requesting them to come over to Buda the more commodiously to confer and conclude Althem deeming every action tending to the hinderance of the common good to be but in shew honourable and indeed hurtful sent before the Gentleman of his Stable his Cook with the Turk sent from the Bassa who were assailed with such a cruel Tempest upon the River that the Boat was sunk and the men drowned an ill presage of peace to be made But the Tempest being appeased Althem and 〈◊〉 passed over the River to Buda at whose coming the Turks in shew gave 1000 Testimonies of their joy The Germanes fed largely of the good Cheere and filled themselves with 〈◊〉 of Wine given them and they also using the Turks kindly as if their Brethren c. Amidst which a Truce for 12 dayes was demanded to consider of the Turks Proposition of peace during which time every man should freely come and go whither they would which agreed on the Bassa in presence of the Commissioners dispatched a Courrour toward the Sultan to advertise him of this his proceeding according to his Command that they might believe the Sultan and his Captains were desirous of peace Then the Bassa presented to Althem two Cases of Arms of all fashions very rich and artificial carried by a Mule with very sumptuous Furniture for a Horse as a Present from his Master to the Emperour and for Matthias he presented a Purple-Velvet rich Robe so cunningly wrought with the needle that every man wondered thereat when Althem presented it with other Turkish Presents to the Arch-Duke He presented also to Althem himself a very fair and rich Robe and all the Commissioners had Robes of lesse value yet very rich and sumptuous The Commissioners returned back to Pesth yet these fair
cruel fight slaying a number of Turks retired thither with all the 〈◊〉 divers being of good account which Fortresse he razed because thereby the Turks should no more annoy the Christians About which time the Turks purposing to besiege Vacia a City which stood the Christians in great stead the Haiducks there in Garrison conspired to deliver to them the place and being far too strong for the Germanes in Garrison with them they slew most of them the rest fleeing speedily to Strigonium and so they delivered the Town to the Turks joyning with them and the Tartars and directing them for the easier spoiling of the Christians thereabouts The taking of Vacia had soon called together great numbers of Turks and Tartars who with the Haiducks made a puissant Army to the terrour of the Imperials not then able to hold the Field against them who turned to Gokara with purpose to passe the River upon the Ice and surprize Strigonium which they once before had attempted but were repulsed with great and small shot as now again yet they of Strigonium seeing their Enemies daily to increase stood more in doubt of a second siege than of the first These things much troubled and grieved the Emperour who 〈◊〉 what power he could and levied great summes on his subjects taking a Duckat upon every house in Austria being then in great fear of these miseries so fast spreading and that way approaching But all or most part of the ayd promised from the Pope King of Spain and Princes of Italy and Germany this year failing and Basta's Forces much weekened with wants and Winters extremity and not able to 〈◊〉 the Field the increasing Enemies began to draw near to Vicegrade purposing to besiege it whereupon the Germans in Garrison warned by the treachery of the Haiducks of Vacia betime retired into the Castle so the Turks and Haiducks were no sooner come thither but the Haiducks in the Town opened the Gates to them as to friends directing them the best they could to besiege and win the Castle which while the Germans notably defended Hassan 〈◊〉 with Begedes Bassa wrote to them perswading them to yield it up but the Germanes valiantly stood upon their defence till through extream necessity they yielded by Composition Basta the while laying at and about Eperia and seeing that for want of greater strength he must lay still as it were besieged was exceedingly grieved yet having procured from the Emperour a general pardon for all who taking part with the Rebels were willing to return to their allegiance he caused Letters of general pardon to be published for all to take knowledge of which being proclaimed with the sound of many Drums and Trumpets Jan. 6th and ten dayes liberty given for such as would come in divers Gentlemen near Eperia for fear of being spoiled accepted of the grace offered others farther off little or nothing regarding the same so that Botscay was now grown so strong that he dismissed most of the Turks which he had used reserving some Janizaries whom he mingled with his GarrisonHaiducks of Cassovia Botscay's Lievtenant General being by some envying at his Estate accused to Botscay as if he intended to make him away and delivering Cassovia to Basta to go over again unto the Emperour was by his Command beheaded with five others more suspected to be partakers in that Conspiracy 100000 Hungarian Duckats with seven Chains of Gold being found in his Treasure which he had scraped together in that small time of his Lievetenantship with which money Botscay confirmed in his Rebellion would admit of no talk of peace but on conditions best liking himself Now I will briefly passe over and even lightly touch such things as for the most part of this year 1605 〈◊〉 in this troublesom Countrey not staying but upon the most weighty matters The Haiducks in the beginning of February besieged Sacmar Castle which the Garrison doubting to be able to defend it nor past sixty sound men being left therein and destitute of necessary provision at length yielded on condition of sparing their lives but in going thence they were near Tokay most slain by other Haiducks a few escaping by flight Sacmar being taken they attempted the surprisal of Tokay Town and Castle but the Governour timely advertised of their purpose caused the Ice of the River to be broken 40 paces over nigh the Castle and lightly covered with straw The Haiducks coming by night by heaps thrust each other forward to have scaled the Castle but the Ice breaking under them they by heaps perished many also which escaped being slain with shot out of the Castle wherein was no great store of Victuals wherefore Basta marched towards Bodac holden by the Rebels in hope with its spoil to relieve Tokay but the Rebels having burnt the Town and got themselves with what they had into the Castle so welcomed Basta with their Ordnance that having lost some men he was glad after four houres stay speedily to return to Eperia some Nobles being reported in his absence to have made a Road towards Eperia to the endangering thereof in which his return Count Turon and Charls Collonitz their Troops lighting on 500 Haiducks in a Village fired it and burnt most of them slaying the rest seeking by flight to escape In the mean time a great Turk brought a great sum of money to Cassovia which being divided among Rebels much confirmed them in Rebellion and towards the Turks who more prevailed by sparing for no cost than by their greatest forces for the Conquest of Hungary Basta was no sooner returned to Eperia but the exclaiming Souldiers were about in a mutiny to forsake him for want of pay who making what shift he could for money with much adoe agreed with them for six weeks longer service the Eperians being thereby freed of a great fear to be spoiled by those mutinous Souldiers The roaming Haiducks March the 2d in the morning came to new Soli and by many reasons perswading the Citizens to revolt had parley with them till noon but still approaching nearer the Town so that Turbel the Governour perceiving a yielding inclination in the Citizens with his Cossacks retired into the Castle which done the Haiducks breaking into the City with six Companies summoned the Castle of whom Turbel slew divers with shot and in the evening sallying forth with Harquebusiers drave the Haiducks out of the City which he afterwards better fortified and next day hearing that some Haidncks and Turks were comming to Turzo with many cattell women and children which they had gotten thereabouts he sent forth his 〈◊〉 with his Cossacks who slew of them about 150 recovering all the cattel 200 Horses and a Mule loaded with 4000 Hungarian Duckats Now Filek-Castle as it were the Key of that part of upper Hungary had been hardly besieged certain months by the Haiducks which although for provision it might have held out 3 months longer yet for want of water the Garrison were forced to yield it for
keeping whereof Ferents Captain of the Haiducks put therein a Garrison of Haiducks and Turks as not daring to trust the Haiducks alone for fear of treachery nor the Turks for their desire of the place for its commodious scituation This Castle Valiant Collonitz all the wayes being beset 〈◊〉 numbers of Turks Tartars and Rebells had in vain oft sought to relieve neither durst he well trust his own men most being Haiducks for fear of being betrayed Concerning which matters he in a Writing to a Nobleman first shewing his earnest desire to be discharged of his service brake forth that the Enemies strength and number more and more encreasing things could not be in a worse state than they were and he being attended on with very Traicours could not possibly serve the Emperour without a sufficient strength of Germane Souldiers yet this most comforted him that he had done his duty or else this mischief had spread further that the Enemies were then in his Dukedom of 〈◊〉 spoyling all and reckoning up 25 strong Towns and places in upper Hungary beside almost all Transilvania subject to Rebels Now if Collonitz was thus beset and spoiled of his Substance having at one time received hurt to the valeu of a hundred thousand Duckats and not daring to trust his own Hungarians in what state may the rest of the people be thought to have bin being at the same time exposed to the Rebells Turks Tartars for a prey But 4000 Haiducks attempting to surprize Wiglace were so repulsed thence that many being slain 35 Waggons could scarce carry the wounded over the Mountains 100 died by the way But going thence and rifling all 〈◊〉 's Country they commanded all the States within 3 dayes to submit and swear fealty to Botscay or expect all extremities which for fear they promised to do to Botscay's Lievtenant Now were 2 grave Counsellours sent in the Emperor's name to treat with Botscay of peace who sent before them an Herauld to Cassovia to advertise him of their comming whom the Turks so straitly kept that none might speak with him but Botscay 〈◊〉 he also but in the open hearing of the Turks Botscay told him if the Embassadours were sent from the Nobility States of Hungary they should be right welcome to him but if from the Emperour they should come no farther for that all matters had with him been oft enough talked of now more than time to be performed The Messenger returning told them what he said and that the Haiducks had built a very high Bulwark in Cassovia beset the gates with strong guards and so filled the Trenches with Souldiers that a man could hardly enter the City yet one might safely go and come about his businesse also that Redeius had assembled all Governours thereabouts advising them to beware of the excursions of the Haiducks for 14 dayes and the while to bring their wives and children and best things into the City because he could not as yet govern the Head-strong Haiducks being yet in their rage and fury of whom some bringing many Cattel from towards Newhuse were by Collonitz and Trautmanstorff pursuing them with their Horsmen overthrown and all the booty recovered About which time Botscay March 29. by Letters declaring the necessity 〈◊〉 defending their Priviledges and Religion against strangers summoned all the Nobility and States of Hungary to an Assembly to be holden at Serents April 17. and declaring that those who upon a presumptuous or careless contempt should not come should be accounted Enemies to their Country and their goods to be disposed of as should to the Nobles and States then and there assembled be thought meet Much about this time there was a great tumult of the Court-Souldiers at Constantinople a great fire then arising in the City as hath bin often done by the Janizaries who in such confusion make their own gaines wherein many men women perished with above 500 rich Shops and Ware-houses most belonging tothe Jews of whom almost 200 were said to be burnt The young Sultan 〈◊〉 and seeing the like to arise at Pera on th' other side of the Haven could not think but the Souldiers were about fome dangerous Treason which suspition 2 Messengers lately come from Cicala encreased who desired speedy supplies for having in a great Battel lost a number of men he must else retire and leave all to the Persian Howbeit the fire quenched and the Souldiers with spoil satisfied the tumult was with much ado quieted Now Basta's Souldiers seeing neither pay nor other relief to come unto them rose in mutiny and in great rage brake into his Lodging where heaping upon him many Reproaches with their pieces bent against him and spoiling certain Carriages richly laden they left him marching towards Presburg so rifling and spoiling whatever came in their way that they seemed to the people worse than very Turks and Tartars carrying away besides other very great prey above 10000 Oxen and 2000 Horses and threatning as they went to burn the Suburbs of Presburg if they were not forthwith paid Whereupon many Citizens for fear removed to Vienna But the Rebels again in great number besieging New-soli April 16. 〈◊〉 it to the exceeding loss of the Citizens other of their fellows but the day before taking 〈◊〉 and divers other places Thus while both Haiducks and Imperials 〈◊〉 the upper Hungary the poor Husbandmen leaving their dwellings and what they had fled some into Poland others into the Mountains where many perished with 〈◊〉 the Husbandman now dared not to go forth to till nor the Shepherd to feed his flock all places being filled with misery mourning and heaviness The Turks and Tartars being not the causers thereof but even the divided Christians themselves These troubles also brake out in other adjoyning Provinces chiefly into Moravia which the Haiducks miserably spoiled with fire and sword taking certain Towns by force and 〈◊〉 them carryed away the very little children to be sold afterwards to the Turks for remedy of which encreasing-mischiefs Lichtenstein the Governour raising all his power went against them with much ado drave them out of the Country yet they carried away much of its wealth and 4000 Captives appointed to Turkish slavery Basta also laying at Presburg and hearing that of 14000 Turks and Tartars comming to St. Georges 6000 of them were gone over Danubius that whilst they made a road into Austria the rest might attempt Presburg followed them to cut off straglers who otherwise might have done great harm leaving but 300 Walloon Horse with some Foot-Companies to keep the City These 300 expert Horsmen by night going forth where the rest of the Haiducks and Turks securely lay suddenly fell upon them and slaying above 500 before the rest could arm returned with some few Horses of service to Presburg In the mean time they of Comara hearing that Begedes Bassa was to go with a notable Convoy from Buda with 17 Waggons of mony c. to Botscay and the Tartar-Chams
those Electors being bound 〈◊〉 the Emperour both for their Electorship and in respect of Bohemia they could not they said but send him present ayd to which end they had some thousands of Souldiers ready in their frontiers About May 17th Matthias marched towards Prague with 18000 Collonitz following him with the rest and though he had severely commanded his men not to rob spoil or burn and had hanged some headed others therefore yet some would be stragling sometimes and doing harm chiefly the Hungarians who ran out as far as the Emperour's Camp and new Prague whom yet the Imperials though 20000 strong let alone the Emperour so commanding howbeit some of them going too far abroad were by the Country-men slain May 23 the States of Bohemia were assembled at Prague the Emperor being present where they promised to spend lives and goods in his quarrel yet requested divers things to be granted and confirmed the chief whereof were that Religion according to the Confession of Bohemia and Augusta should not be violated and the Professors of either not scoffe or despise each other the arch-Bishop not to meddle with civil affaires that Protestants and Patrons of the University of Prague should be joyned to the Consistory as in Ferdinand's time Political Office not to be void above a moneth to which men of both Religions should be admitted every man to enjoy his right and no decree published against it Every man to have access to the Emperour and not all to be done by his Councellours all men to know what was treason a difference to be made bet 〈◊〉 offences and none for a leight one to lose goods life and reputation the suits of Widows Orphans and others to be expedited and not from day to day deferred the Father not to pay the Sonnes debt which he ran into without his knowledge but the Sonne himself Lawyers which plead Causes to be content with fees by common decrees appointed them and in any wise they requested the Emperour to ease them of these griefs before compelled to answer to what was to be propounded in his behalf most things he easily granted those which concerned Religion onely excepted which were put off unto the next Assembly About the end of May Matthias's Embassadors came to Prague upon safe conduct who caused their charge to be read before the Councel out of a long writing in the Bohemian Tongue then being put aside and a while after called again they were answered That the points were of more weight than to be sufficiently deliberated of so soon wherefore they thought meet that Commissioners on both sides meeting in open field nigh Debritse should consult there of those Articles who at length accordingly so wrought by often going to and fro that the Emperour and arch Duke were again made friends the Articles of which pacification were June 17th openly read in the Castle of Prague according to the first whereof the Crown of Hungary with its Ornaments as King Stephen's Sword the Golden Apple with the Crosse of the Kingdom upon it two pair of rich shooes a very ancient Robe with a royal 〈◊〉 were by the Emperours chief Lievtenant delivered to the arch-Duke Matthias to whom also the arch-Dukedom of Austria before by the Emperour possessed was surrendred who with his Army ranged in order c. commanded three great Vollies of shot to be discharged and then royally feasted the Emperours Embassadors and many of Matthias his Camp especially the Hungarians went into Prague to buy necessaries many coming also out of the City to see his Camp but the while some insolent Souldiers by night breaking up some Shops of the Jewes and carrying away much rich Wares caused great stirs so that divers Souldiers were cast into prison July 1 King Matthias departed from Prague with his chief Councellors towards Lintze dividing his Army into three parts for their more easie passage but one Cottovitz a Noble Bohemian to whom the Hungarians and Haiducks had done great 〈◊〉 in this expedition with 600 Harquebusiers and many Countreymen went to Patrovitse where cutting off the passage and cutting down Trees acrosse the wayes he slew about 900 Hungarians coming that way carrying away some prisoners with much booty of Horses Wagons and Goods whereupon the Hungarians trod down the Corn as they went and began to fire the Villages and Houses thereabouts but the King by the General of Horse commanded them not onely to desist but upon a great penalty to help quench the fires they had raised In the mean time great preparation was made at Vienna for receiving K. Matthias and bringing him into the City according to his Dignity which triumphs and Solemnities ended when as they there began to consult of things concerning the good Government of Hungary and crowning of the King and that the Protestant States of Austria began to exercise their Religion according to the Confession of Augusta Leopold the arch-Duke and Bishop of Passavia Melinus the Popes Nuntio Cardinall Forgats and the Bishop of Vienna came and by earnest soliciting of the King obtained that that exercise of Religion should be again abrogated the Temples shut and publique preaching forbidden whereupon the Protestant States calling a Councel refused the Oath of allegiance to the new King till they had obtained the liberty of their Religion commanding all their Subjects and Tenants to be ready in arms and if need were every 30th 10th or 5th man to be prest to the Warres but they supplicating unto the King 180 Nobles subscribing thereto and being answered onely to desist from their purpose and appear forthwith to take the Oath they Septemb 14 going to Horne by Letters to the Popish States protested themselves clear of all the evils to ensue if they should take their Oath of allegiance to the King and so raised an Army beginning by all meanes to provide for their affaires but the States of Bohemia and Moravia informed them that they would intercede for them to the King yet not to be wanting to them at their need Letters the mean time came to Vienna from Constantinople declaring Matthias's Embassadors to have on his behalf promised faithfully to keep the peace and the Sultan to have received the presents before the chief Bassaes but he would in no wise grant them the Government of Transilvania giving it to Gabriel Bathor and commanding the Bassa of Buda to establish him in that principality About the beginning of October 2 Counts were sent to the Protestant States at Horne Maximilian the arch-Duke following them who by no meanes or promises could draw them to take the Oath of allegiance without the freedom of their Religion but Octob. 16th the Popish States took that Oath to King Matthias at Vienna with Ordnance Drums and Trumpets thundring and sounding and great feasting triumph and solemnity which done Matthias came Octob. 22 to Presburg being brought by the Hungarian Nobles with 10000 Souldiers into the City who Novemb. 6th offered the King some Articles in
Souldiers with their money some having been without pay five years he sent also to the Sultan 70 mules laden with Serders Treasure and 60 with Goods all which he gave to his Wife and Children The Grand Seigniors rigour is observable For Jan. 7. 1612. he being abroad in the snow and not well provided of fewel caused Stambol Aga who had that charge to be set in the snow naked 4 or 5 hours This Winter was very rigorous abundance of snow great storms throughout all Turkie many houses were beaten down and the French Consul at Aleppo slain with the fall of his own house Nassuf marching to the Frontiers of Persia made such spoyl that the Sophie drew all his Forces together in August to prevent the ruine of his Countrey but they being about to fight the Persian finding inequality offered for peace a yearly Tribute of silk enough to load 200 Camels in acknowledgment of some Countries he had conquered This was acceptable at Constantinople but it was added The Persians son should be called Bassa of Tauris and the Cady or Judge thereof to be sent from Constantinople April 26 a Turk lending a good sum of money to a Christian came before the day of payment with another Turk willing him to pay the money to that other Turk at the day which the Christian did accordingly But the Turk denied the Receit Wherefore he that lent it came demanded it The Christian answered He had paid it to the party assigned The Turk replyed Then he was satisfied yet the other denyed it So the matter coming before the Judge the Receiver sware to the contrary and the Christian was forced to pay the money again praying God to shew some sign Which had done the wrong So as the Turk went home he fell down dead in the street Vignancourt the Grand Master of Malta having an enterprise against Navarrin an important place to the Turk sent five Galleys under Vaqueras great Commander of the Order who coming pretty nigh the shoar were discovered by a Castle which had allarum'd the whole Countrey wherefore they passed thence and came near to the Coast of Morea ten Leagues from Corinth landing by night 800 men under the General at Land and an hour before day were at the Gates of Corinth to force them some Turks took arms but the Knights entring sackt the Town and carryed away 500 slaves after which they happily and orderly retreated although ten thousand horse and foot were drawn together in that populous Countrey imbarking in view of them their spoil and slaves so that it appears to be one of the most desperate Eńterprises that hath bin of long time seen But at Prague the Germans entertained themselves with consideration of a Crown appearing in the Firmament over that City in October giving a huge Light and Armies about it fighting for it At which time Rodolph the Emperour was upon the declining of his dayes and Matthias who succeeded him upon the rising of his triumphs many expounded this Apparition as a presage of his being King of the Romanes who enjoyed the Crown of Hungary already and that of Bohemia by designment Three Suns seen over Vienna the year following confirming the Germans in this their hope Some of the English Ambassadors men quarrelling with some Jamoglans of the next Serail fell to blows and one of the Embassadors men threw a stone hitting a Jamoglan on the forehead whereof he soon died The Aga complaining to the Visier he sent to make enquiry of the fact the Embassadors went to the Serail sending for his men and willing the Turks to design the party who all ran upon one Dibbins newly come from Candie and now in the Embassadors service he threw not the stone yet the Turks would have none but him dragging him away The Embassador offering to pledge for him was thrust away his men beaten and a page wounded He complained to the Visier but they drag'd Dibbins to prison and kept him a moneth there not to be released though the English offered great sums for his life The day of Execution appointed the Embassador sent his Chaplain to the Prison to prepare him for death to whom he confessed that in England he killed a man wherefore he fled to Candie whence he came to Constantinople the just judgement of God pursuing him to suffer for that which he did not He was hanged at the Embassador's 〈◊〉 his head heels being stollen away next night by the Turks as was thought to use in some sorcery the rest of his body they had leave to burie This year 1612 a double nuptial Feast was celebrated at Constantinople for the Mariages of Mehemet Bassa Sonne to Cicala with the Sultan's Sister and of Mechmet Bassa the Admiral with the eldest Daughter of his Emperour Great was the Pomp of the first but far greater the Magnificence of the second the Jewels and moveables of this Bride being in great state conducted from the Serail to the Bridegrooms Lodging the day before the consummation of the Marriage and her self next conducted to her Husbands Lodging with no lesse Pomp and State than her moveables The Ceremonie being performed on June 30th 20 dayes after the other But not many dayes after the Sultan's second Daughter promised to Nassuf Bassa was carried to her Grave without any Pomp or honour for the Turks do not much esteem of Women The day after the Mariage the Grand Seignior did cruelly beat his Sultana the Mother of this Daughter stobbing her with his Handiarre or Dagger through the cheek and treading her under his feet because she had strangled one of his Sisters slaves whom he being enamored with had sent for She having her brought to her Lodging stript her strangled her and putting her Cloaths upon one of her own slaves sent her to the Sultan in her stead strangling her also as she had many others when they appeared with Child by him The Plague beginning furiously to rage in Constantinople the Sultan returned to his Countrey Pallace to avoid the danger so that it seemes the Turkish Emperours for their own profit dispense with some Articles of the r faith for they though the Turks are so obstinately 〈◊〉 to the belief of predestination know well how to flee the danger yea and to cause those who come to kisse his hand to be led under the Arms for fear of violence Thus we see the defect of false Religions when we see universality in the faith taken away for there all believe according to their private Interests as well as among many others who have seperated from the truth Achmat being at his Pallace of Darut Bassa and going to visit a stately Mosque which he had built there a Derviser cast a great stone at him to beat him down but it fell upon his shoulder and hurt him but lightly Achmat commands they should draw from this Traitor the Confession of his Confederates but the Officers caused him to be executed next day cutting but
Spaniard in Hungary and then 〈◊〉 at Sea came thither May 1. He was to treat of the freedom of the Holland-slaves to make a League with the Turk and obtain a free Navigation for the Hollanders throughout his Empire He kist Achmat's hand and was favourably received presenting to him the Letters of his Embassy and rich and rare Presents which the Sultan accepted with Admiration July 6. After the League betwixt them was sworn according to the Embassadours forementioned charge Achmat also granting That the States should have an Embassador residing at his Port. About the end of this year the Moors chased out of Spain having by Presents won the favour of the Cadi of Pera who was a Negro newly placed in by Nassuf had power to thrust all the Jews out of Pera and to ruin their Synagogues which they did with all violence One of the Jews Sect dwelling in Chios thinking he had more credit than the rest complained to the Cadi who in stead of doing justice caused 500 blows to be given him with a cudgel The Morisques threatned also to do as much to the Christians at Pera as had bin done to them in Spain bragging they would seize upon their Temples chiefly that of the Franciscans reasonable fair but the French Embassador complaining to the Visier he prohibited any of their attempts on rigorous punishment but throughout all the Levant and in all encounters where they came they did the Christians much more mischief than the Turks At this time Achmat had collected a mighty Army for Transilvania encamping it about his Pallace of Darut Bassa whither the Constantinopolitans walked to see it few days after he went to Hadrianople meaning to proceed in his Voyage leaving only his Admirall at Constantinople to have a care of the City who published an Edict That no man should go out of his House nor keep light therein after the Cry which is an hour within night when the Talismans from the top of their Mosques invite the people to make their Sala or prayer then he sent some Chaoux 〈◊〉 entreat all Embassadors there to suffer none of their people to go out by night that their liberty might not give a dangerous Example yet 3 English men of the Embassadors train going forth were met by the Provost of Pera who took them and causing each of them to have 150 blows with a Cudgel committed them to prison never opened but with a silver Key About the end of the year the Patriarch of Constantinople upon divers complaints was deprived by the Visier Cyrillus Patriarch of Alexandria much against his will preferred to the place The former Excōmunicates all that wrought his overthrow but himself was banished into Rhodes in his passage the Vessel being cast upon Mitilene he there renounced the Patriarchship before that Bishop resigning it to him of Patras who coming to Constantinople labored with Nassuf for the place who upon promise to pay 15000 Chequines 10000 more than they were wort made him a grant whereupon Cyril came with the Greeks to expostulate with the Visier who said He must do what he could for the Emperours fit Wherefore if they would give the 15000 Chequines Cyril should continue the people were willing but Cyril refusing th' other was made Patriarch who sent for the old one 〈◊〉 Rhodes to make peace with him holding his excommunication unjust being deprived by a Council also About which time Nassuf sent for the English French Venetian and Low-country Embassadors to raise their Custom one in the 100 more than the Merchants formerly paid Whilst Achmat's Army drew near to Transilvania fortifying his places in those Countries Cosmo de Medicis G. D. of Tuscany bent his designes against the Fort of Agliman in Caramania of old Cilicia being the Fort and Port of the City Selencia which in old time contained within it the most fearfull Forces of the Pirates of those days The Trophy of the Heads of 40 Florentines were erected on the Walls of Agliman by the ignorance of the Captain of the ship Prosper caused the G. Duke to study this 〈◊〉 in the end of March 1613. he armed 6 galleys under Inghirami manning them with 6 Companies of Foot commanded by Montanto besides 40 Knights of St. Steven and many other Gentlemen Petro de Medicis being one from Ligorne they came to Civita Vecchia In the beginning of April they took in the Earl of Candale and other Nobles and Gentlemen of France who would be partakers in the enterprize About mid April they landed by night nigh 〈◊〉 a small Town in Asia the less but they found it forsaken by the Inhabitants sayling Eastward they set upon and took 3 Vessels like Caramousalls Upon their way to Agliman they took a Vessell called Grippe instructing them that there were 2 Galleys of Cyprus in the Port which was well furnished with all necessaries and without a good number of Horsmen and that one of the Gallies was to come forth to fetch a new Mast from the Isle Pappadula Inghirami laid his Fleet close in the Island to surprize that Galley but it discovering them speedily returned to Agliman allaruming all the Country of which they had news by a long-Boat they sent from the Port Cavalier to discover yet they pass on and about 3 in the morning came near the shoar and before 6 they landed about a mile and half from the Port. Montanto the Earl of Candale and a few choise ones landed first to discover encountring with the Turkish-horse yet Montanto commanded they should all land save 20 to guard every Galley Within this strong Fort seated upon a little pleasant Hill were above 300 fighting men with store of necessaries for defence without were a 100 Horse scouring up and down and within the Port 2 Galleys a Caramousall and a Greek Brigandine with about 150 fighting men The order of the Florentines Combat being divided by Montanto Candale led them forward without being charged by the Turks till he came within 120 paces of the Wall where he was charged before from the Fort behind by the Galleys and in Flank from the Mountain with such a horrible cry that the Marriners with the Petards exceedingly terrified let them fall and fled but Monterault and Tiel took them up Being come within 15 paces of the Walls 20 Turks sallied forth but being too weak they fled presently back into the Town the Earl tried to enter with them but the Port was shut so soon as they were in While they were fastning the Petard to the Gate great stones fell upon the Troop wherewith Don Pedro was overthrown and half-slain Whilst they were thus busied the Mayor came and told Candale there was 300 Musquetiers come to charge him they were 2 Beys come out of the Galleys through the bad guarding of those left to hinder their landing he leaving some with the Petard turned with the rest to charge them but they retreated towards the Mountain making many a shot so the Christians
Bassaes head besides the Bassa-ship in his Monarchy or in case the Bassa would submit all should not onely be forgiven and forgotten but he should be vested with any dignity he pleased to make choice of But the Bassa went on still in his design and whereas formerly he demanded the Prime Vizier's head now he demands further a reformation in the Mahometan Religion and have the Persian Womans son setled in the 〈◊〉 That young Prince being served in his Court as the Grand Seignior and honoured as the mighty Emperor and all respects given him as if indeed he were the great Prince of Turky The Turkish Chiaux had private audience of Arch-duke Leopold William March 19. 1659. having presented him with two Turkish Horses and other things his proposalls was That the Great Prince of Turky desired to prolong the peace with the Emperour which was granted The Bassa of Aleppo totally defeated the Grand Vizier again March 27. retiring Victorious to Trocaria with the Cannon and Baggage which he took Nevertheless the Grand Seignior caused the chief Vizier at his return to publish in Constantinople that the Rebell-Bassa had refused the combat but the truth being too much known to be concealed the carriage of the matter so discontented the people that they ran into great disorder which was not easily composed The Bassa of Aleppo made his head quarter in the Capitoll City of that country where he setled the pretended Son of Sultan Amurath as Prince with a Court and all Officers and Ministers of State about him having made new Laws more agreeable to the humours of the Turks and chosen a new Muphti as their chief Interpreter in matters of Religion by whom he made an Interpretation of the Alcaron which gave more liberty to the people He treated them with great humanity and indulgence severely punishing the Souldiers for any misdemeaner Declaring That he took up arms to reform the ill Government of the Empire And as the Caracan was passing from Alexandria to constantinople he defaced the Seals of the Passports given by the Grand Seignior causing his own to be given them And sent a Letter by them to the Grand Seignior wherein he lets him understand That the Son of Sultan Amurath being lawfully successour of the Empire he ought of right to have Natolia and if he refused that the said Bassa would make his way into constantinople by force of Arms Where if he should advance the standard of Mahomet to oppose him then the said Bassa would erect the standard of the Prophet Ali by which means he doubted not to draw the Persians to him The said Bassa had well nigh subdued all Asia and seemed to intend no lesse then parting Stake with the Emperour but the chief Visier being marched to Scutari April 7. with an Army of 20000 Horse and 30000 Foot and expecting 60000 more to joyn with him being Ordered to reduce him to Obedience He having notice of the strength of the chief Visier called a Council of his principal Officers where weighing their own inability they concluded to implore the mercy of the Grand Seignior by a timely submission To this end they sent a dispatch to complement the chief Visier and let him know That they had not taken Arms against their Prince but against certain persons that had abused his Trust and Favour Yet rather then tumults should be longer continued they humbly cast themselves upon the clemency of their Lord the Grand Seignior Of which when the Sultan was advertized he was so affected to see so grand a civil War so soon ended that he sent his pardon to the Bassa and his Complices But he with some of his Associates putting himself into the tuition of Mortaza Bassa who promised to obtain their pardon he caused them to be beheaded and sent their heads to Constantinople where 31 of the most eminent were perched on Poles before the Seraglio among whom was Keiman Bassa Brother to the Bassa of Buda Afterwards the said Mortaza falling upon a Party which were rallied in the Territories of Aleppo cut 3000 in pieces and dispersed the rest so that there remained not the least footstep of their undertaking April 20 1659. Ussaim Bassa heretofore General in Candia and then Bassa of Bosna being returned to Constantinople to give an Account of his Actions was imprisoned in the 7 Towers and was May 9. beheaded by Order from the Grand Seignior The German Emperour having concluded a Peace with the Turk upon Condition that the House of Austria should not meddle in Prince Ragotzies cause sent the Baron of Radolt to tell Ragotzi that his best way was to retire out of Transilvania into some safer place because he could not protect him without hazarding a War in Hungary He levyed 20000 stout men under the command of General Lamboy May 18. The Venetian forces in Morea had good successe May 15. The Infantry being landed and divided into 21 Battalions and the Horse in 4 squadrons drawing up within three Leagues of Calamata the Turks presently advanced thence in a great body and good order but were put to flight towards the said place and were so close pursued that the Venetians entred the City with them making a great Massacre and gained rich booty during which time the Turks that kept the Castle being terrified with the cries of their men and the Cities Flames quitting the place got over the River but some Horse and 1000 〈◊〉 pursuing them they were most cut in pieces and the rest taken Prisoners Afterwards they passed to Milo where the Generalissimo having given a Moneths pay to the Souldiers and Seamen and furnished the men of War and Galleys with all necessaries he sailed towards Mitylene to encounter the Captain Bassa whose Armado was supposed to be thereabouts which consisted of twenty four Galleys four Galleasses and twelve men of War also the Gallions under their Captain Generall Contarini with a squadron of 〈◊〉 having run up and down about the Isles of the Archipelago and gained good prizes returned May the thirtieth to the mouth of the Dardanelles where all the Officers declared a high resolution to oppose the passage of the Turks which were to come that way from Constantinople The troubles in Asia were not quite extinct by the death of the Bassa of Aleppo because a Nephew of his who was Lievtenant of his Army had openly declared That he would revenge his death and recollecting new forces drew one Charan Bassa to his party a man of a Noble spirit Hereupon Assam 〈◊〉 who had a hand in executing some of the said Bassa's party which were his prisoners gave over that severity lest upon this stir it should provoke the people The Bassa of Bosna likewise having 〈◊〉 oppressed the people in his Government was complained of to the Grand Seignior whereupon the Sultan sent for him to Constantinople Which order he would not obey having a Guard of 6000 Horse But the Inhabitants of Mustar unable to endure his Tyranny put
Emperour of Germany 1339. sends Negroni Embassador to 〈◊〉 I. 1350. Maximilian crowned Roman Emperour 803. concludes a peace with Selimus 806. Maximilian made Generall of the Emperour's forces 1098. wins Hatwan 1099. overthrows the Turks 1104. but flies 1105. Melechsala made Sultan of Damasco but is betrayed to Saladin 48. Meledin Sultan of Egypt dyes 91. Melechsala chosen Sultan of Egypt 91. overthrows the French Army 94. and dyes 112. Duke Mercury made Generall 1130. wins Alba-Regalis 1155. discomfits Hassan Bassa 1175. 〈◊〉 come into Greece 185. Michael Ducas made Emperour instead of Diogenes 8. Michael Emperour of Greece goes to Magnesia but returns with losse 135. and dies 144. Michael is created Vayvod of Valachia 1050. revolts from the Turk 1052. wins Hersowa and Silistra 1054. overthrowes Turks and Tartars 1056 1057. submits to the Turk 1107. yet takes Nicopolis 1118. invades Transylvania 1125. overthrowes Bator Vayvod thereof 1126. and wins it 1127. receives an Embassador and rich Presents from the Turk 1137 1138. subdues Moldavia 1140. is overthrown by 〈◊〉 1145. resigns Transylvania to the German Emperour 1146. recovers it and drives out Sigismund 1162. is slain in his Tent 1163. Michna Vayvod of Valachia proclaimed Prince of Moldavia 1394. 〈◊〉 is made Admiral by the Venetians 〈◊〉 doth great harm to the Turks 377 378. gives up that charge 379. is chosen Duke of Venice 383. Moses revolts from Scanderbeg 342. and comes to Epirus with an Army 343. is discomfited 344. submits to Scanderbeg 345. is taken by the Turks and is flead alive 366. Moyses Sigismunds Lievtenant is overthrown by 〈◊〉 1165 1197. loseth Solomose Castle 1198. invades Transylvania 1109. wins Claudinopolis 1201. puts the Valachians to flight but is discomfited and slain 1203. Mustapha chosen Emperour of Turks 1408. imprisoneth the French Embassadour for 〈◊〉 escape 1411. but frees him 1412. N. NAdasti who had done excellent service for the Emperour in Hungary dyes 1229. Nassuf the Grand Visier his life related 1365. he is strangled 1366. Nice is recovered by the Christians 161. Noradine Sultan of Damasco fires Panead 27. wins it and Arethusa 45. and dyes 48. O. 〈◊〉 wins Prusa 160. is established King of Turks 161. wins Nice 163. and 〈◊〉 165. and dies 169. Original of the Turks uncertain 1 2. Osman Bassa is sent for by Amurath III 952. puts the Tartars to flight 954. is appointed Chief Visier and General 956. is surprized by the Persian's sleights 975. wins Tauris 976. falls sick 977. his Army is discomfited by the Persians 978 979. and dies 980. Osman I. proclaimed Sultan 1113. sends an Embassadour to K. James of England 1414. and is strangled 1423. Othoman made Governour of the Oguzian Turks 123. surpriseth the Castle Chalce 124. and Einegiol 128. settleth his Kingdome 129. subdues Bythinia 130 and dyes 160. Otranto taken and fortified by the Turks 402. but regained 403. P. 〈◊〉 crowned Emperour of Greece 101. gains Constantinople from the Latines 105. and dies 85. Palfi Governour of Strigonium dies 1130. Pappa yielded to the Turks 1133. Persian King 〈◊〉 Taur's 984. his eldest son Hamsy is slain 990. recovers Tauris 1214. wins Babylon 1237 1268. overthrows Cicola 1243 1246 1268. wins Damasco and Adena 1289. defeats the Turks 1323. kills 60000 Turks 1404. besiegeth Babylon 1440. Peter stirs up Christian Princes to the Holy War 10. Peter Count of Flanders chosen Emperour of Constantinople 84. dyes 85. Philip 2. of France departs for Sicilia 57. returns out of Syria 59. invades Normandy 61. Philes Paleologus chaseth the Turks out of Europe 143. Plague in the Christian Camp whereof 50000 dye 15. in Constantinople where 200000 dye 1328 1340. Prodigies seen in the Air 1339 1365 1414 1419. Ptolemais yielded to the Christians 58. and razed by the Turks 114. R. R 〈◊〉 Prince of Transylvania deposed by the Turk re-aslumes his Government 1433. discomfits the Turks 1434. the States establish him 1435. puts the Bassa of Buda to flight 1436. delivers Varadin to the Turk 1446. takes his Competitor prisoner 1448. Rhodes besieged by Mahomet in vain 398 401. its scituation 541. besieged by Solyman 542. and yielded to him 558. Richard I. King of England sets forward to Syria takes Cyprus with its King 57. and becomes King of Jerusalem 60. Robert of Normandy chosen King of Jerusalem 18. Rodolph the Emperour makes a League with Amurath III. 952. which is broken 991 1002. overthrowes the Turks at SisegCastle 1012. wins Subatska 1017. discomfits the Turks and takes Filek 1018. sends an Embassadour to the Duke of Muscovy who promiseth aid 1024. takes Jasperin Castle 1026. and Rab 1112. overthrowes the Turks and Tartars 1122. takes a prize from the Turks 1123. besiegeth Buda 1171. wins 〈◊〉 1172. and Adona 1174. raiseth Buda's siege 1175. discomfits the Turks 1213. takes Hatwan 1222. hath aid from the Pope 1250. hath a Treaty of peace with the Turks 1252 1253. which is broken 1254. suppresseth the Rebels of Transylvania 1265. hath Cassoria yielded to him 1266. puts the Turks and Rebels to flight 1289. concludes Articles of peace with the Hungarians 1293 1294 1307 1308. grants free exercise of Religion in Bohemia 1322. and dies 1339. Ronzerius entertained by the Greek Emperor and slain 136. Roxalana a slave married to to Solyman married to Solyman 731. plotteth Mustapha's destruction 732 733. S. SAladin is made Sultan of Egypt 47. invades the Holy Land and is put to flight 49. breaks his League with Baldwin and is overthrown 50. loseth 15000 men and flies 52. takes Ptolemais and 〈◊〉 Towns with 〈◊〉 53. makes a great slaughter of the Christians 55. and dyes 61. Saracon invades Egypt is vanquished by Almericus 46. is appointed Sultan of Egypt and dies 61. Scanderbeg delivered to the Turks for Hostage 236. hath 〈◊〉 delivered to him 259. gains Petrella and Petralba 260. taketh Sfetigrade 262. puts Alis Bassa 264. Ferises 276. and Muslapha to flight 277. overthrows the Venetians 284. takes Mustapha 285. assaults the Turks Camp 291 298. takes Amesa prisoner 335. kills Debrias 336. receives aid from Alphonsus 339. is surprized at Belgrade 340. discomfits his revolted Nephew Amesa 352. concludes 2. years peace with the Turk 354. defeats Sinam Asam Jussumbeg and Caraza 355. makes a peace with Mahomet 357. spoyles the Turks borders 360. surprizeth Seremet Bassa 363. 〈◊〉 Balabanus 4. times 365 368. and slew Jacup 369. With Venetian aid he raiseth Croia's siege where 〈◊〉 is slain 371. dies and is interred in Lyssa 373. Scrivano a Rebell overthrows Mehemet Bassa 1153 1164. wins many Cities in Asia and dyes 1176. Selimus I. aided by the Tartar comes into Europe 448. to Hadrianople 450. is put to flight by his Father 454 455. is made General and saluted Emperour 462. invades Armenia 474. fights with Hysmael 477 478. puts Aladeules to flight 485. sends Sinan Bassa into Egypt 498. takes Caire 509 510. and dyes 524. Selimus II. installed Emperour of Turks 799. invades Cyprus 815. wins Nicosia 821. besiegeth Famagusta 822 823. and wins it 837. makes
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