encamping the 3d day near the little River Xerogipsum where he left nothing unsaid or undone for the animating his Souldiers Within 2 daies his scouts brought tydings about midnight that the enemy was even at hand who by Sun-rising were come in sight wherefore first of all compassing themselves with their Waggons c. and bestowing their bound captives booty therein casting dust on their heads and their hands towards Heaven they came on The Christian Army came on also Philes right well conducting them He that led the right wing at first on-set unhorsed two enemies but his horse sore wounded he retiring hastily out of the battel somewhat troubled the Christians and encouraged the Turks Philes with chearful words encouraged them and with eys cast up and tears running down heartily besought God c. The footmen encountring hand to hand slew the Barbarians and were of them slain But Philes having almost encompassed their horse with a valiant company brake in upon the sides of the enemy who circumvented and hardly charged most of them fell a few horsemen were pursued to the entrance of Chersonesus whither came Philes 5 Galleys were sent to keep Hellesponts Straits 2000 horsemen came out of Servia and 8 Gallies moe by the Potestate of Pera wherefore shutting them up by Land and Sea Philes encamping about the Town and Trenches greatly battered the Castle making great slaughter The Turks by night set first upon the Grecians by sallying out and then upon the Servians with vain attempts wherefore utterly despairing about midnight they full of Coin ran to the Sea purposing to yield themselves to the Genowaies But the night being dark and misty many unawares came to the Greek Galleys who lightened them of their mony and slew them The Genowaies slew only those with the most Coin lest it should be sought for by the Greeks the rest some they sent to the Emperour some they kept as their own prisoners Thus by Philes his valour the Turks for that time were chased out of Europe Innovation and change of the Greek's Religion covetousness envy ambition distrust Forreign aid and foul discord were the chief causes of the Greek Empire's decay and ruin But Michael had 2 Sons Andronicus and Manuel of these old Andronicus entirely loved Andronicus his Nephew causing him to be brought up in his Court as not willing to spare him out of his sight But when he was grown a lusty youth he began to contemn all Government his companions leading him forth to walk the streets hawk hunt and haunt Plays and afterwards night-walks which requiring great expence and his Grandfather giving him but a spare allowance He took up mony of the rich Merchants of Pera c. with secret consultations of flight For seeing his Grandfather live long his Father like to succeed his ambitious thoughts suggested to him such purposes seeking after the Imperial liberty that he might have sufficient for himself and to reward others which seeing he could not do he sought one while after Armenia then after Peloponesus sometime dreaming of Lesbos and Lemnos for which he was reproved by the one and the other He used by night to repair to a Gentlewomans house whom another gallant no lesse affected then himself wherefore he appointed Russians to watch her house Manuel about midnight seeking him passed by these watchmen who in the dark supposing him the man they looked for wounded him that he fell down for dead and so was carried half dead to Court which ourrage cast the Emperour into great heaviness but Michael hearing at Thessalonica of Manuel's being dead with the wounds shortly after dyed with grief The unstayed youth purposing to flee became more and more suspicious to his Grandfather who appointed one Surgiannes who was suspected of aspiring imprisoned and by the Emperour enlarged warily to observe the young Princes doings But he not unmindful of former wrong and in hope to aspire himself took the Prince aside discovering his Grandfathers device to set them together by the ears as followeth Thy Grandfather most noble Prince said he hath set me a watch or rather a bloodbound over thy actions and if possible thy most secret thoughts c. whilst thou followest thy shallow conceits for what shall it avail thee to flee away c. But if thou hearken to my counsel I will shew thee a ready way to aspire the Imperial Seat which is by leaving Constantinople and fleeing into the Thracian Provinces and proclaiming immunity for ever from thy Grandfathers long and heavy yoak If thou likest this I will bring the whole matter to effect so that thou promise me to reward my travel according to desert and that no great matter be done without my consent for thou seest how unwillingly I make my self partaker of thy Calamity c. And seeing delay brings danger let 's impart the matter to such as are like to keep counsel and further our designes He moved herewith as with a charm confirmed his desire by an Oath in writing John Catacuzene Theodore Synadenus men of great honour and aged and Alexius Apocaucus a man of great place being present who shewed themselves as Ring-leaders therein Syrgiannes and Catacuzene by corrupting divers great ones procured the Government of places fittest to begin their rebellion in In all which they mustred Souldiers c. entertaining Strangers as for some great War placing their Friends and removing those they suspected from Government colouring all by false rumours of the European Tartars and Asiain Turks coming and commended by the Emperour himself for their care All which Syrgiannes dissembling oft certified the Prince what he had done and was to do But the Emperour seeing his Nephew proceeded in his dissolute life was about to reprove him before the Patriarch and others but being otherwise perswaded for that it was on the point of Shroveride when as the people through excess were fittest to be drawn into a tumult he let him alone But a good part of Lent past he sent for him to chide him before the Patriarch and other Bishops that as ashamed he might either amend or be thought justly punished if he proceeded The Prince with his followers 〈◊〉 secretly armed agreeing if the Emperour used gentle admonition to keep themselves quiet but if in anger or threatning to punish him to break in and kill him placing young Andronicus in his stead He was grievously blamed of him yet with such moderation that all seemed from a fatherly care so that the assembly was quietly dissmissed and an Oath taken That he should not appoint any other his successour and that the Prince should attempt no hurt to his Grand-father's Life or Empire At his coming out he was discouraged and ashamed at the speeches of the fretting and fuming conspiratours saying Thou hast left us in the Devils mouth to be devoured c. and sent for Theodore Metochita requesting to deal with his Grand-father for his followers pardon whereof he disliked telling
surely the Tartars sight hath so frightned this coward that he thinketh every enemy to be two Most report that Tamerlane putting the men to the sword over-ran the women and Children with his horsemen in the fields except a few for prisoners Also that Bajazet losing there his eldest son of some called Orthobules in his march hearing a Sheapheard merrily reposing himself with his pipe standing long listning with a deep sigh said Oh happy Shepheard which hadst neither Orthobules nor Sebastia to lose Yet the Turks give Orthobules lost 6 years before against Casi Buchaniden They reported 12000 in all to be in Sebastia 〈◊〉 Other Cities yielded for fear of like danger whose Citizens chiefly the Christians in respect of the Greek Emperour he courteously used c. Not gone far he was certainly advertised that Bajazet coming was within 30 Leagues of him after which he marched more closely with his his Army Axalla sent Chiansen Prince of Ciarcan with 4000 Parthian horse to know if he could of the Turks Army c. and make relation to him who sending another Parthian with 500 horse before not ridden 10 leagues but heard of Bajazet's coming and susprizing Sennas understood his Armies state so marching foreward Tamerlane commanded him not to retire till the enemies arrival seen and to give him notice every hour himself resolving not to passe further being at a large plaine and Country advantagious for battel of his Army far greater than Bajazets Yet his Army being of divers Nations and not to fight against the foft Chinois but the Turks most warlique c he thought to be well advised in proceeding Wherefore he sent for Axalla to view the place who not misliking it advised him to keep Sennas as long as possible So sending word unto them to fire it upon the enemies approach and so withdraw that the enemy not desiring there to incamp might come forward to those plaines The Turks drawing near Sennas they all retired except some 100 left to fire it which done they retired in great disorder Ciarcan dividing in two parts commanded the first to receive the 100 purposely in disorder fleeing so soon as the enemies pursued them retiring altogether Himself stood in a Valley near a wood unseen where suffering 2000 horse enemies to pass by he charged them home in the reare the retirers turning on them also who thus beset fled most being slain the rest taken prisoners who were sent to Tamerlane as a present with the Bassa of Natolia who led them whom Tamerlane demanding why Bajazet shewed such contempt of his Army c. He answered his Lord was Sun upon Earth enduring no equal that he was rather astonied to see him enterprize from so far to hinder his Lords fortune the heavens bending to further it c. that he committed great folly in resisting it Tamerlane replied he was sent from Heaven to punish his rashnesse and to teach him the proud are hated of God c. Thy self said he hast felt already my Parthians Valour against thy Turkish and I have caused him already to raise Constantinoples siege and look to his own in Asia Furthermore he demanded if his Master resolved to bid him battle Be assured said he he desires nothing more and I would I might acknowledge thee in giving me leave to assist my Lord. Go said Tamerlane and tell thy Lord thou hast seen me and he shall find me on horse-back where a green ensigne is displayed The Bassa thanking him c. and returning declared he had seen him and reported all he willed him and published his courtesie who besides liberty had given him a fair furnished horse though he were to serve against him Bajazet answered he would shortly try him hoping ere the march ended to make him acknowledge his folly Next day the 2 Armies encamped within a League where the Scythians greedy and needy talked all night of the spoile the Parthians of honour the Christians of their deliverance c. All which Tamerlane hearing rejoyced to see his Souldiers hope of Victory who after the 2 watch thought to sleep a while in his pavilion But his cares not suffering he then read as ordinary in a book of his Ancessours lives not to deceive time but to imitate and decline what they worthily did or by rashnesse c. fell into After slumbring he sent for Axalla who came with divers great Captaines with whom consulting a while he mounting sent every one to their Charges to make ready At which he heard the enemy came to take his ground whose Order he desired to see to marshal his own by Causing 3000 horse to advance to begin skirmishing himself followed to lodge every part in places foreseen for his advantage Seeing the Janizaries in a square battle in midst on the 2 fronts 2 squadrons of horse seeming 30000 and another covering the Janizaries battalion he thinking this order hard to be broken said to Axalla I thought to have fought a foot but now I see it behooves me to fight on horse-back to encourage my Souldiers to open the enemies great battalion And my will is that my men come so soon as they may for I will advance with a 100000 foot-men c. Ciarcan commanded the first 40000 horse Lord Synopes a Genovois the foremost foot Axalla over 5 squadrons of horse Bajazet's Army came bravely on towards their enemies who stirred not from their place except some light horse-men as loose skirmishing before the Armies Tamerlane had notice that Bajazet meant to fight on foot in midst of 30000 Janizaries in whom he most hoped His horse were 14000 old Souldiers The Aegyptian Sultan having also sent him 30000 Mamalukes with 30000 foot whose Army marching in one front like a half moon but not so well knit as Tamerlanes seemed almost as great as his So with horrible out-cries still advancing Tameriane standing fast with great silence Young Ciarcan with his 40000 horse was in the first encounter almost wholly overthrown by the Turks most furious charge yet fighting valiantly and entring into the midst of the Janizaries was himself slain About which time Axalla with the avauntguard cutting a wing of the enemies all to pieces and his foot joyning faced the Janizaries who 〈◊〉 behaved themselves for their Prince's safety This hard fight continued one hour not any seen scattered horse-men rushing together like mountaines men dying crying and threatning all at once Tamerlane patient the while to see the event at length his men giving ground he sent 10000 horse to joyn with the 10000 for the reare ward to assist him at need and charged himself causing the foot to charge commanded by the Prince of Thanais who furiously charged the Janizaries where Bajazet yet was in whose Army were a number of mercenary Tartars called Destenses with many 1000s taken up in exiled Princes Countries who seeing some their friends others their Natural Princes in Tamerlane's Army revolted from Bajazet Who yet with his own men and the Christians from
the Bohemians and slew many Rascinius with his followers being slain Cazzianzer purposing to retire home placed 4 ranks of Waggons on each side for defence the weak and sick in the Vangard yet in the front were some lusty Companies but in the rear the greatest strength They met oft with wooddy Hills hindring their way yet the Turks could not so conveniently assail them thereby wherefore Mahometes sent Janizaries and nimble Footmen before knowing well the passages with some small Pieces to take the Straits and to gall them in their passage and when they could keep a place no longer to flee back to another and in the open places were light Horsemen busie with them whereby they received much harm which grieved them the more for that the Turks were but in stragling Companies At a strait bigger than the rest Bachitius a Hungarian Captain in whom they generally reposed their greatest trust was slain with a Faulcon-shot with divers valiant Hungarians who seeing there more than in other places thought to do some good service on them Bachitius's death brought a fear on the whole Army yet in revenge the Hungarians did so repulse them that losing many men they ran away leaving their small Pieces behind them but the nimble Turks with shot out of the Woods stayed the Hungarian Horse from pursuit recovering their Pieces before the Christian Foot could carry them away so still troubling them as before who thus beset and almost spent for want did generally fear some extream calamity and the more hearing that Mahometes expected supplies from Belgrade Samandria and Nicopolis and many Hungarian light Horsemen stealing away from them neither saw they any comfort now in their dismayd Captains but being come into a fair Field near the Town Gara they heard the Enemy had in the Woods before them cut down great Trees acrosse the wayes so that neither their Ordnance Wagons or Horse could passe without breaking their order This filled them with despair and the more for that Moreus and others said there was but two wayes to escape one through those Woods to Walpo about 10 miles the other towards Zenthner-Zebeth Castle in Moreus his Countrey some miles from Gara by taking whereof the enemy through the straitness of the passag must needs give over his pursuit yet it was resolved in Councel to take the way through the Woods there being in the Castle Victual enough and money from Ferdinand to pay the Souldiers for all that winter So leaving the great Ordnance behind and burning the Powder with what could not well be carried upon the sound of a Hoboy to set forward Many much disliked this resolution saying amongst other things that to run away would be a dishonour to the Captains and also dangerous to them who respected nothing but life wherefore they thought better to fight a Battel with them and not believe the false reports of new supplies come unto them and that God would undoubtedly ayd them c. After this they consulted and determined that the sick and wounded should be carried on the Wagon and Cart-horses before carried in the Wagons or amongst other baggage and that such as could not stay themselves should be holden by others riding behind them Those who were so desirous to go said This their departure was not a shameful flight but a right honest necessary manner of retiring seeing they were stronger than their enemies in Horse and equall if not stronger in foot though they were sore weakened with sickness Every Captain the while not regarding shame bethought how to betake himself to flight the uncertain hope of desired life Mahometes using most certain spies did by most diligent watch and Troops of Horse besetting all passages most vigilantly attend their motion having shut them up as in a toil It was now almost midnight and the Army expecting the sign of setting forward many great Captains upon a cowardly conceit departed before the rest without leave The Hungarian Horsemen are reported to begin it who knowing the wayes made haste to Walpo Moreus going the other way to his Castle after whom followed in great hast Hugonot with his Stirian Horsemen the Bishop fled also known by his great Lanthorn wandring in the Wood. Cazzianzer hearing hereof and that all the rest were upon fleeing presently got to Horse forgetting the Signal thinking as he said afterwards they were all gone before and unarmed fled leaving rich furnished Tents behind for hast In this tumult famous Lodronius was called up and told by his Servants that the General was fled who answered without doubt not so that I should be so perfidiously betrayed of him and so as megered with watching and labour laid down again to sleep Mahometes hearing the stir in the Camp rose to assail his enemies yet for better assurance of the enemies action he stayed for day-light in order of battel his men very silently to expect the sign of setting forward which was by the soft sound of a Horsemans Drum passing through each Company The day appearing Lodronius awaking heard a confused noyse of the Turks and being forsaken by most of the Horsemen complained he was betrayed yet as nothing discouraged he cheared up the Footmen exhorting them to remember their former valour c. himself who had been their happy General in many battels being resolved by repulsing the enemy to bring them into a safe place or valiantly fighting with them to end his dayes The Carinthian Saxonian Austrian and Bohemian Horse came the while to Lodronius beseeching him to take on him their treacherous General 's place c. who modestly protested himself unworthy thereof yet as a man of courage and moved with the Armies hard estate he solemnly promised to execute the place in best manner he could It 's reported as Lodronius was inveighing to his foot against shameful flight an old German said Worthy Lodronius thou canst never be thought to flee shamefully with a Horse of such a price under thee whereupon he alighting hoxed his Horse saying aloud That that day they should have him fighting on foot as one of themselves See saith he ye deceive me not c. All his other Horses he gave away to sick and wounded Souldiers he best knew The first Troops and Bands were scarce out of the Camp but the Turks with a hideous cry assayled them on every side the Christian Horsmen repulsing the proud enemy still busie with them In these skirmishes as they marched Fuchstat General of the Carinthians was slain supposed for his brave Armor to have been General of the field 24 Horsmen of great name being slain also and their Guidon taken 3 being Noble men In another place was a most cruel skirmish with the Saxon Horsmen and those who followed their Ensignes above 36 worthy Captains Lievtenants or Antients being slain and Chuenricus a principal Captain taken who died afterwards in bonds Likewise the Austrian Horse couragiously resisting a while were overthrown 2 Noble men being slain with
the Messengers to come into his presence rending the Letters without reading them yet the Emperour on condition that he should be King of Jerusalem and all Palestine delivered to him That all taken from Baldwin 4th by Saladin should be restored that Nazareth and Joppa he might fortifie at pleasure and that all prisoners by both be freed without ransome concluded a Peace for 10 years thereupon he was Crowned King of Jerusalem on Easter-day 1229 who repairing its 〈◊〉 Walls with certain Temples c. appointing Raynold of Bavaria his Lievtenant returned into Iealy The Sicilian Kings have been ever since called Kings of Jerusalem Gregory next year more in spight to the Emperour than zeal did by the lately erected Dominicans and Franciscans stir up a wonderful number to take on them the Crosse so tearmed their cognizance who bound themselves for recovery or defence of the holy Land under Theobald King of Navarre the Counts of Monifort and Campaigne and others to trouble the 10 years concluded Peace passing Bosphorus they came to the River Sanger in Bythinia there refreshing themselves at length they came to the Straits of Mount Amanus taken by the Turks the Sultan of Iconium not far off encamping yet Montfort couragiously marching with his Vantguard by force opened the Mountains passage Navarre in vain assaulting the Sultan's Camp who would not stir out wherefore the King dividing his Army followed Montfort with his best Souldiers in the rear but the Turks 〈◊〉 them upon occasion at length taking advantage in a Plain slew of them an exceeding number the battel through the night broken off the Christians at length arrived at Antioch having lost most of their Army and 〈◊〉 with all their wealth and victuals they were 〈◊〉 to Ptolemais and thence conducted to Gaza spoiling the Countrey they could have no help of the Emperor's forces there for he had expresly charged not to do any thing tending to the breach of the 10 years League which the Turks perceiving lay in every corner to cut them off these of Gaza returning with spoil out of the the Countrey were set upon by the Turks whom they put to flight But the next morning far more Turks appeared who joyned with the watching Christians a cruell battel who though they shewed very much valour wearied and oppressed with their multitude were almost all 〈◊〉 The two Counts falling among the rest the King by his horse's swiftness hardly escaping who after 2 daies wandring came by hap to Joppa some few escaped to Ptolemais He visiting Jerusalem returned home with a few followers Raynold the Lievrenant about 4 years after dying the Templers who would oftentimes have broke the 〈◊〉 now took occasion to stir up the people to take Arms against the Turks 〈◊〉 the Aegyptian Sultan raising an Army sending for the Chorasines lying near 〈◊〉 besieged Gaza which at length taking he put all to the sword therein Likewise he dealt so with Ascalon and other places The Templars and Hospitallers with the weak Kingdomes strength came to give him battle near 〈◊〉 who hastily as if for fear retiring came upon them next night encamping by the River at unawares and unarmed who being awaked hastily and disorderly took such weapons as came to hand fighting terribly and doubtfully a long space encouraging each other But the Turks keeping order and more in number greatly slaughtered them yet with loss of many thousands of their own most of the best Templars and Hospitallers were slain The Sultan being 〈◊〉 forthwith took Jerusalem putting all men women and children to the sword rasing it burning the buildings c. defaceing Christ's sepulchre never before violated which he seemed chiefly to do for that the Christians for its gaining so hardly adventured so troubled the 〈◊〉 and Turks Thus by breach of the league Jerusalem fell again into the Turks power in 1234 in whose hands it hath remained to this day governed by a 〈◊〉 the Sepulchre being again repaired was much visited and not unreverenced by the Turks themselves Frederick was much grieved with this losse but being entangled with troubles that Gregory left unto other Popes till they had deprived him of Empire and life also he could not remedy the same Lewis the ninth King of France famous for zeal devout in life and abounding in wealth was careful for the Christians in Syria In whose devout motions before he could resolve on the enterprize he fell dangerously sick lying speechlesse and but a little faintly breathing the first thing that he asked for when come a little to himself was the Crosse that wars cognizance which he received of the Bishop of Paris 3 Counts his Brethren with the Duke of Burgundy Earl of Flanders Count of Paul and most of his Nobles taking the same time the same charge on them Yet few years passed in preparation for so great an enterprize many dying before it At length the King taking order with his mother Blanch c. took his leave of the Pope at Lyous who for fear of Frederick lay there and embarquing at Marcelles Aug. 25. 1248. he arrived in Cyprus Sept. 20. following Who was desirous without stay to goe for Aegypt had he not been otherwise perswaded through want of his whole Fleet and the years season But passing there the winter the plague arising and increasing in the Camp a great number shortly died with the Bishop of Bravais and divers others 240 in number not of the meaner sort so 〈◊〉 he divided his Army attending the stay of the Infection The Templars in the mean time fearing the Turk's over-running all and the French getting the Victory would diminish their tyrannizing power sent secretly to the Sultan of Aegypt perswading him by an agreement to avert farther harm from the French King Who liking it well sent to their Master about a peace yet with the French King's consent To whom the Templars wrote perswading him to accept thereof setting out the Sultan's great praeparations But the King of Cyprus acquainting Lewis that the Master had sent to the Sultan procuring that message he fed the Turk's Embassadour with hope but wrote to the Master on his head not to have any intelligence with the enemy Winter past divers Noble and great ones who had set forth late or for fear of the plague 〈◊〉 by the way repaired to Cyprus as Robert of Burgundy with good Horse-men the Prince of Achaia with a great fleet from Peloponesus William Earl of Sarisbury with a band of lusty souldiers So Lewis departing tossed with winds about 5 daies after fell upon Aegypt coming with his fleet before Damiata The Sultan understanding his purpose had strongly fortified his stontiers beside a great power kept with him in readinesse The Governour of Damiata was ready to keep the Christians from landing who manning their long Boats with Archers to beat the enemy from the shoare ran a ground with other landing Boats coming to handy blowes a sharp battle was fought many falling on both sides
aloud St. James St. James the Spaniards Patron He rescued with his own hand Pontius of Granado who unhorsed and sore wounded was ready to be slain Also 30000 Moores came suddenly to surprise a small Tower on a Hill near Carthages ruines wherein Souldiers were placed for it was near the Camp Before these went a Numidian Priest bellowing out certain Charms and casting abroad scroles of paper wherein he cursed the Christians they brought those in the Tower with fire and smoak to great extremity but the Emperour coming to their rescue flew the Priest with others and put the rest to 〈◊〉 The discomfiture of the Spanish Horsemen made many think that the Emperour's Horse were too weak for a set-battel being but few and inferiour to the Numidians For which cause and divers others some of his Councellors willed him to proceed no farther in that dangerous Warre but speedily to return since he had won honour enough by taking Guletta and the enemies Fleet but he gave them a resolute answer to the contrary willing them to cease further to 〈◊〉 him no way dismayd or to possess his valiant Souldiers with a vain fear and resolutely against next day with him to expect the fortune of the field for a full accomplishment who was set down to give battel or he enemy refusing to batter the Walls of Tunis not doubting but God would stand by him in so good and godly a quarrel So garrisoning Guletta and repairing its breaches laying the Ordnance on Carriages which before lay bound in unweldy pieces of Timber with Iron rings Then causing the Country to be well viewed which betwixt the Olive Groves and the right side of the lake passeth directly to Tunis he set forward with his Army in so good an order as still ready to fight and in his Armour he rode from squadron to squadron cheerfully and hopefully recounting the former Victories they had got for him telling them he that day expected of them a most honourable day's service seeing they were to fight against the naked enemies of the Christian Religion and to resolve to endure all difficulties till they might joyn battel with their enemies where they should undoubtedly by Gods goodnesse obtain the Victory comforting themselves the while with the sure hope of a most rich prey of a rich City They all answered with a great shout he should not trouble himself with those matters for they would patiently endure all extremities and by a valiant fight make him Emperour not of Africk but Asia also Vastius made General chiefly for that day withdrew two Spanish Companies of Harquebusiers to skirmish with the Moors following in their Rear whom by those and some Troops of Horse the Duke of Alba notably repulsed The Army being come to the 〈◊〉 which Muleasses and others had told them of the extream thirsty Souldiers descrying them afar off forsook their Colours and ran as fast as they could unto them Vastius laboured in vain by fair and fowl means to stay them a great advantage being by that disorder offered to the enemy not far off The Emperour himself hasted thither to keep them in order yet such was their intolerable thirst that he could not remedy the disorder some 〈◊〉 in the sands for lack of drink and some ready to burst their bellies at the Fountains so that he beat them away with his Truncheon One Cicero of Arpinas a famous Captain died there with over drinking This extremity seemed just for Vastius had the day before commanded every Souldier to carry a bottle of Wine or Water at his girdle though he caused what water he could conveniently to be carried in Casks for common relief the Germans having the most Some ready to give over bought a draught of water of their fellows for two Duckats The Army being brought into order Charls held on his march for Barbarussa coming with a great multitude of Horse and Foot and a number of Ensigns gallantly displayed about 3 miles from Tunis and some Field-pieces went about to break the Christian's Battel those Pieces doing little or no hurt through the Cannoniers unskilfulnesse Vastius had likewife commanded the Ordnance to be brought into the Front but perceiving what toyl and time it required He told the Emperour he thought it not best to stay for them every man desiring Battel lest staying too long upon their great Ordnance their enemies should gather courage and the Souldiers cheerfulnesse grow cold The Emperour cheerfully answered If thou think good I like it well In Gods Name give the Signal That I shall said he but first 't is reason that thou which swayest a great part of the world at this time obey me whom thou for this day hast made General of so mighty an Army wherefore since I may not request I command thee to get into the middle of the Battel lest by some unlucky shot the whole Army be extreamly endangered by the danger of one mans life Charls smiling willed him not to fear it saying Never Emperour was yet slain with a gun yet he went into the middle of the Battel The Signal given by Trumpet and Drum the enemy was furiously charged by his Horsmen who to avoid the Artillery made all haste to come to handy-blows Noble and valiant Gonzaga being somewhat foremost at the first onset slew with his Launce a notable Moorish Captain with his sword so troubling those next him that he opened a way to break into the enemies Battel the Harquebufiers also discharged so fast that 300 of them lay dead before Battel was joyned whereupon the other Footmen fled back from their Ordnance to Barbarussa who not long enduring the Christians force or fight but grinding his teeth for grief retired with his Turks into Tunis 〈◊〉 himself with hope out of his enemies foreseen distresses to take some fit advantage if he could but a while defend the City the Numidians and Moors retired also into the Suburbs and other places near The Emperour glad of his enemies flight thought to be a 100000 encamped that night where they before lay determining next day to batter Tunis's walls Barbarussa exceedingly surprized with fear and distracted with cares purposed to kill all the Christian-captives in the Castle but Sinan the Jew for divers reasons disswaded him from that most execrable fact Solyman using to derest and revenge such outrages who living bound in Chains if they should lust after their unlucky liberty 〈◊〉 neither give victory to the enemy nor take it from him or hinder it and might shortly serve him to good purpose whereat he ashamed went out of the Castle assembling all the chief of the City into the biggest Temple telling them what he would have done for defence and encouraging them to fight from whom a little before Charls his coming he had taken all kind of arms A constant report of a danger so eminent run even in the Dungeons of the Castle by some manumissed slaves who had in heart returned to their old Christian
and Victual were come but the greater number prevailed for going to Exek delay breeding danger saying there was strength and Victual enough for obtaining of the Victory c. The young Souldiers having no proof of the Turk's manner of fight thought two dayes staying a long delay of so ready a Victory wherefore the Army was mustered and 10000 Horsemen found for divers Germane Troops were come to the Camp a more gallant Company seldom seen so suddenly raised but the Foot were scarce 8000 many being sick and others weary who lingringly stole away and generally those left moyled with dirt wet with rain almost starved with cold and pinched with hunger were thought scarce able to endure the hardness of the Warre Command was given every Souldier to carry with him three dayes Victuals and Proclamation made none on pain of death to take any Turk prisoner though yielding or charge himself with any spoil for the Captains would afterwards divide that among them Thus setting forward they the third day encamped in a Valley three miles from Exck next day some Turks appearing were by the Ordnance repulsed the day following the enemy sallyed out with oft skirmishes many being flain on both sides but more wounded of the Christians certain 〈◊〉 being mingled with the Turk's Horsemen wherefore the General forbad all such light skirmishes commanding his Cannoniers so to place his Ordnance that the Turks sallying forth received great hurt thereby That day came the Bishop with his Horsemen and a certain provision of Victual well easing their fear Mahometes now to annoy them by other meanes sent many small Boats manned with Harquebusiers and small Ordnance into the lake nigh the Camp to keep them from watering and shooting oft into the Camp nigh which was a Hill having a Village wherein were some Turkish Companies to skirmish upon occasion with the Christians to displace whom the Army was put in battalia and the Ordnance bent upon them whereupon the Turks firing the Town retired to Exek The Christians being come up the hill might see Exek about two miles off in a fair plain near Dravus which low ground was so subject to the Castle that it was thought too dangerous to attempt that way to batter the Castle but descrying a rising ground on tother side of the City they thought best on that side to plant their battery against it but to come thither was thought a matter of no small trouble for the 3 miles foul and troublesom compasse they were to fetch and the Army being like soon to feel want of Victual which would hardly be had the enemy besetting every passage and scouring about wherefore some thought it best to stay there till more supplies were come but others said the enemy was but barely victualled himself which they understood by some Christian fugitives and that Mahometes had put his chief substance into Boats purposing to flee after 3 dayes siege they thinking the Forrest would well enough be passed thorow beside winter coming so fast on suffered no delay wherefore next day the Army marched in good order through the Forrest Which Mahometes perceiving sent forth a 1000 light Horsemen and some Companies of Janizaries to trouble them suddenly charging the reareward being Bohemians and Italians the first quickly 〈◊〉 the other hardly endured the charge but being relieved by men at Arms they put the Turks to flight so the Army with small losse came to the place desired where after placing all things in order for the siege they offered the enemy battel But he reported not above 16000 strong kept within the Town shooting at them with his Ordnance they also with two great Pieces on the Hill shot thorow both Walls and Bulwark to the Defendants great terrour Having stood almost all day vainly expecting their coming forth to fight returned at night into their Camp for Mahometes kept in his earnest Souldiers knowing the Christians want of Victual the fugitives reporting also that Solyman charged him upon pain of a most shameful death to defend it to the last The Christians in few dayes began to feel a general want neither saw they plainly how to be relieved so that they began to fear some general mischief Baltazar Pamphilus a Noble Hungarian sitting in Counsel advised them for relief of the Army presently to remove to Hermande Castle about ten miles from Exek with whose provision not like to be small they might refresh their whole Army and so proceed further as occasion required Fast by the Castle was a prety little walled Town without flankers easily he said with the Castle to be taken who was sent with some Companies thither which at his first coming was surrendred to him but no such store of Victual as he hoped for therein yet were there some Vessels of Wine to the great relief of the weak men Hereupon the Camp removed from Exek about 10 at night but very disorderly yet the Turks stirred not out misdoubting some deceit The Army being come the Victual was equally divided and next morning battery laid against the Castle which but 20 Turks defended half a day then yielding on composition but there was found in it but two Barrels of meal and two of Millet Then the very Captains hung their heads as struck with fear who found nought but a few Women and Children there and scarce Victual enough in Town and Castle to serve two dayes yet they fed the Souldiers with better hope after the Bridge over Bodrog running by the Town was repaired which the Turks had broken so Carpenters and every man helping it was in 3 dayes repaired Next day the Bridge overcharged with the wondrous weight of the 7th Battering-piece began to break so that they brake it carrying it away by pieces All things being passed over the Bridge was again broken that the enemy should not pursue them that much the nearest way Cazzianzer himself upon debate thought the great Ordnance were best be broken promising to new cast them of his own charge As for scaling-ladders c. they burnt them but most thought it not best to break those goodly Pieces but to march on thorow Possega to Juvancha which Town with Gara Castle fast by stored with provision they said would easily be taken before the Turks could come so far about the Lake and a great shame it were to return doing nothing Cazzianzer with great toil came by night to Juvancha but 3 miles off where the Turks with exceeding speed at the same time arrived The Turks fleeing out of a small Town nigh the Castle the Christians received in the Souldiers who so filled themselves with Wine that they were hardly driven out to the Camp which Town the Turks that night burnt with what the Christians had there left and in the dawning of the day began hotly to skirmish with the Christians especially in the Bohemians quarter whom Rascinius grieved with a Troop of his best Horse forced to flee but they soon returning and being relieved beset
and give the Enemy battel so was also the Lord Rederen the rest were of a contrary mind because the strength of the Christians were too weak therefore they thought it better to retire in time c. whereat Avarsberg at first much moved afterwards plainly set before them a necessity of the cause with lively reasons chearing up the fearful Croatians and notably perswading them all in generall to put their whole trust in God to whom it was as easy to give Victory by a few as by many With these other words he so prevailed that they all resolved to go against the enemy and to do what they could to relieve their Friends so the whole Army not above 4000 hasted on with great speed and being come within a Mile of the Enemies Camp put themselves in order of Battel Whereupon the Turks brought all their Horsmen over Kulp by a Bridge which they made and came on in order to joyn Battel with the Christians the Croatians and Hussars in the Van-guard gave the first charge but having for a good 〈◊〉 made a good sight they discouraged with the Enemies multitude were about to flee but Aversbeg the General comming on both restored the 〈◊〉 and so charge the Turks main Battel that the Bassa first retired then fled after whom all the rest followed the Christians keeping their array pursued them with great speed and coming to their Bridge before them took that passage the Turks seeing their miserable slaughter and no way to escape ran some into the River Odera some into Culp and were most drowned the rest were all slain the Christians resolved to take no prisoners The Turks at the siege hearing of this overthrow set fire on their powder and provision and in great fear fled Whose tents the Christians took with 9 great Ordnance and good store of great shot with the Bassaes Pavillion and much other rich spoil which was all carried into the Monastery Most Writers agree that 18000 Turks were 〈◊〉 and drowned Hassan himself being one found near the Bridge and known by his sumptuous Apparrel and near unto him Mahomet beg and Achmet beg In other places was also found the dead bodies of Saffer beg the Bassaes 〈◊〉 with 4 other Begs and the Bassaes chief Counsellour and Master of his Houshold but above all the death of Sinan-beg Amuraths Sisters only Son sent to learn the feats of War under Hassan was most lamented The Christian Army 〈◊〉 thrice about the Monastery every time falling all on their knees giving hearty thanks to God for this miraculous Victory and afterwards made all shew of joy possible Siseg thus delivered the Christians with all speed laid siege to the strong Fort of Petrinea most 〈◊〉 battering it for 5 dayes but hearing that the Beglerbeg of Greece or Romania was comming with a great power to relieve the Fort they raised the siege every man returning to his wonted charge The mean while a Post coming from Constantinople brought the first news of the overthrow to Buda Wherefore the Bassa called him diligently examining him of the truth thereof who told him that upon the way as he came he 〈◊〉 with divers Horsmen who escaped from the slaughter who told him the Bassa was slain and his Army destroyed the Bassa replyed He was happy in his death for if he had escaped he should for his indiscretion have undoubtedly suffered some more shamefull death at Court Newes of the Victory being brought to Prague the Emperour commanded publike prayers with Thanksgiving to be made in all Temples sending a Letter to Amurath to know how he understood those insolent proceedings chiefly the late Expedition of the Bassa of Bosna and his Complices contrary to their League He sent also the Lord Popelius with the yearly Tribute yet with this charge that being come to Comaro in the borders of Hungary he should stay till the return of the said Messenger who if he brought tidings of peace then to proceed on to the Turks Court otherwise to return with his Present as he did for Amurath enraged at the losse at Siseg and prickt forward with the tears and prayers of his Sister to revenge her sons death he proclaimed open War against the Emperour Aug. 7th both at Constantinople and Buda the managing whereof he committed to Sinan Bassa the old Enemy of the Christians Who departing from Constantinople with 40000 men 5600 being Janizaries being brought by Amurath and the great Courtiers a mile on his way with charge from him by the assistance of the Bassaes and other his Commanders in that part of his Empire to revenge his Nephews death and the dishonour received at Siseg His denounciation of war against the Emperour was proud cruel and blasphemous threatning to besiege his chief Cities to burn destroy kill and with the most exquisite torments they could devise to torture to death and slay such Christian Captains as should fall into their hands or to keep them as Dogs Captives in perpetual misery to impale upon stakes their fairest Sons Daughters and to kill like dogs the women great with child and the children in their bellies for he was now fully resolved to bring him that ruled but in a small Country into subjection and to keep from him his Kingdom As also to oppress root up and destroy the Keys See of Rome with its golden Scepter and he would prove how their crucified Jesus would help them as theirs perswaded them Trust in him still said he and see how he hath holpen his Messengers which have put confidence in him for we neither believe nor can endure to hear that he can help who is dead so long ago which could not help himself nor deliver his own Country and Inheritance from our power over which we have so long raigned Sinan kept on his way towards Buda but the Beglerbeg of Greece with a far greater power marched towards Croatia both to relieve their distressed Forts and again to besiege the Castle of Siseg which he compassing about overthrew the walls giving no rest to the Defendants which Breaches they valiantly defended and notably repaired the very Women bringing Tables Stools and whatsoever came to hand to keep the Enemies out A great number being slain at length Septemb. the 3d. the Turks entred by main force putting all the Souldiers to the sword 200 being Germans some of whom they cut in pieces and threw the rest into the River Kulp the religious man there found they 〈◊〉 quick and cutting him in small pieces burnt them to ashes so taking all the spoil and leaving a strong Garrison there they passed over Savus burning the Country and carrying away about a thousand into captivity These Invasions caused the Emperour to crave ayd both of the States of the Empire and other Princes farther off by some easily granted but not so speedily performed About this time Peter Lehussar who commanded the Horsmen whom the Hungarians call Hussars Captain of Pappa by the
your Religion from accursed slavery averting the storm hanging over your own and childrens head The Hermit delivered these Letters at Rome to Pope Urban the second requesting his care for redresses of the Christians miseries seen at Jerusalem who calling a Councel at Claremont in France of 310 Bishops out of divers parts with Embassadors of all Countries propounded the same as a special matter where the Letters being read and the Christians miseries and teares being by the Hermit lively represented the whole Assembly was moved with compassion crying out Deus vult that is God willeth it which words were afterward much used in their expedition as a sign of their chearfulness this religious decreed war spreading in one daies space by flying fame so far as is hardly to be believed And by the effectual perswasion of the Father returned home were shortly seen about 300000 men with red Crosses on their breasts ready to spend life and goods for Religion and recovery of the holy Land under the commands of Godfrey Eustace and Baldwin Brothers of the house of Bulloin Great Hugh the French Kings brother Raimond Robert Earls of Flanders Robert of Normandy William the Conquerour's Son Stephen of Ualois Ademar the Popes Legate and Peter the Hermit many Princes being partakers of their travels though not of such charge One Gualter first set forward then the Hermit with 40000 who came at length thorow Germany Hungary and Bulgaria with labour and losse to Constantinople which weary travellers were afterwards shipped over Bosphorus into Asia by Alexius the Emperour marching encamping not far from Nice in Bythinia unto whom by reason of distrusting the expedition to be against himself through guilt of his usurpation they were not at first very welcome Godfrey with others followed the Hermits way Hugh the Legat and the French Commanders passed into Italy taking leave of the Pope unto whom Bohemud a Prince of Apulia joyning with 12000 they crossed the Adriatick from three several Ports Brundusium Bary and Hydruntum passing by land to Constantinople where they met with Godfrey with whom jealous Alexius better perswaded of their good meanings made a League to furnish them with all supplies though by him but slenderly performed for which he should receive all Countries except Jerusalem gained from the Turk and Saracens he transported them unto Asia but Bohemud from his Fathers grudg with Alexius came nor to Constantinople yet marched passed Hellespont sooner than was expected The Turks understanding what was growing on them out of Europe diligently sought to cut off Gualter Peters Army who had lyen two months about Nice expecting the other Princes whose Souldiers weary and somewhat pinched chose Raymond a Germane in a mutiny in Gualters room suspecting also Peter's prowess and therefore by quitting Exorgum a Town and sending out Cattel as a bait to train out the Christians winking at those who brought them into Exorgum slew asterwards full 3000 incouraged Christians to the discouragment of their chief Cómanders yet the Soldiers chose one Burel a new General 10000 rashly going out of Exorgum in revenge for forrage were almost all slain by the Turks who afterwards hardly besieging the town with famin sword consum'd most of them the Hermit with much ado defending the town Cinit whither he had 〈◊〉 til the Princes coming Solyman Cutlumuses his Son who was dead who had almost nullified the Hermit's forces was careful to withstand the great Army who removed from Nicomedia besieging Nice so called from Nicea the wife of King Lysimachus this City was yielded July 1097 after 50 daies siege defended by the Turks longer then was supposed new supplies coming to them by the lake Ascanius on the other side the Turks assayling the mean while the 〈◊〉 Camp were with great loss repulsed Solyman's wife and two children being taken prisoners the City was restored to Alexius Then the Christian Princes encamping on the fourth daies march by a river for refreshment news was brought to Bohemud of Solymans approach aided by the Persian Sultan with 60000 men to give the Christians battel who sending word to the other Princes for relief upon occasion the two Armies most terribly fought the Turks lying slain on heaps some of their horsemen breaking in the mean time into Bohemuds Camp among women and weak persons appalled the fighters but Bohemud withdrawing some Companies repulsed the enemy whose Souldiers he found at his return ready to flee from the Turks but his coming restored the battel The enemy with horsemen 〈◊〉 the Camp again Hugh seasonably coming with 30000 to rescue it whom a fresh Turkish reserve notably encountred At length after a terririble and doubtful fight the Turks gave ground retiring into the mountains 40000 being slain about 2000 Christians No enemy the next morning appearing they buryed their dead easily distinguished by their red crosses Solyman fleeing gave out he had the victory burning destroying or carrying away all as he went Bohemud and the Princes now marching through lesser Asia easily took Antiochia in Pisidia being courteously received by the Citizens of Iconium refreshing their Army But at their approach to Heraclea the Turks and Garrison souldiers fled the Christian Citizens gladly yielding themselves and City to their deliverers Here through the Turks fear not daring any where to abide their coming Baldwin and 〈◊〉 with part of the Army soon subdued Tarsus Edessa and Manussa Cities of Cilicia while the other part took the lesser 〈◊〉 and the Cities of 〈◊〉 and Socor in Cappadocia driving the Turks in every place out of lesser Asia and setting the oppressed Christians at liberty Of which Solyman sorely complained in Letters for aid unto Axan his Cousin Thus the Turks until by discord and ambition of the Greek Empire they again became dreadful this heat being over were glad to retire farther off being brought low in lesser Asia The Conquerours mounted over high Taurus possessing the City Maresia from whence the Turks had by night fled being first bound by oath not to return home till the accomplishment of that holy war While they 〈◊〉 here the Citizens of Artasia suddenly slaying all the Turks in Garrison received Robert Earl of Flanders with 1000 men that was sent to Summon it In revenge hereof the Turks sent 10000 out of Antioch unto Artasia 15 miles off who by stragling Companies drew the Flemings out of the City purposely fleeing from them and had not the Citizens relieved them they had surely perished by the Turks ambushments The Army marching forward encamped Octob. 21. 1097 before Antioch having passed the River 〈◊〉 on which this famous City is scituated Robert Duke of Normandy by a hard conflict making the Turks forsake the bridge where they thought to stay their passage the Covernour for the Persian Sultan of this Metrapolis of Syria called by the Hebrews Roblatha was Gassianus who had 7000 horse and 20000 〈◊〉 as defendants with great store of all necessary provisions 〈◊〉 incompassed
were about to return into Thracia But being informed that the Emperour had shut up the passage by a mighty wall at Christopolis from the Sea to the top of the Mountains they thus beset desperately resolved to break into Thessaly being above 8000 men to relieve their wants or towards Peloponesus there to seat themselves at least-wise to enter a League with some on the Sea coast and so return into their own Countrey They came in 3 daies to the Thessalian Mountains at the foot whereof finding plenty of all necessaries they wintred But Winter being past they came down into the Plains of Thessaly spending that year at pleasure havocking whatever came in their way That Countrey was but weak the Prince being but young and like to die c. And to avert these forreigners the Nobility offered their Commanders gifts and guidance into Achaia and Boetia Countries more commodious for them promising if they needed aid there to seat them Of which offers the Catalonians accepted So at Spring receiving their rewards and guides passing over the mountains beyond Thessaly and the straits of Thermopylae they encamped near Locris and the River Cephisus But the Duke of Thebes c. hearing of their coming with great pride and contempt denied them passage thorow his Countrey reckoning them but as loose wandring rogues c. wherewith they enraged resolved there to seat themselves or to die So they encamped not far from the River in Boetia 3500 horse 4000 foot But lying there they caused the ground where about they lay to be plowed up which they watered with cuts out of the River that it little differed from a deep Marsh. Hither comes the Prince with about 6400 horse and 4000 foot casting no peril coming bravely on with his horsmen but before he was come to the middle of the Plain his horses sinking deep lay with their riders for most part tumbling in the mire c. other-some sticking fast stood with their riders like very Images not able to move The Catalonians slew them at their pleasure and so speedily pursued the rest that they surprized Thebes and Athens so they having wone a goodly Countrey stored with all wealth there ended their travels and seated themselves not ceasing as saith Nicephorius Gregorias by little and little to extend their bounds unto this day There were 3000 Turks in the Catalonians Army of whom about 1100 were the Turcopuli under Melech the other came with Chalel out of Asia being sent for by the Catalonians All these when the Catalonians were about to invade Thessaly seek new fortunes partly distrusting their society and partly loth further to follow began to mutiny Whereupon Melech and Chalel requested of the General leave to return which he easily granted and so they departed proportionally deviding the captives and spoyls taken After which they divided into 2 parts the Turcopuli following Melech and the rest Chalel Melech having violated his Religion again and revolted despairing of the Emperour's friendship chose rather to go to Crales Prince of Servia by whom he was sent for with 1500 horse and foot but all his Souldiers delivering up horses and armour were to fall to Trades and not to bear Arms but when and so many as the Prince saw good But Chalel with about 1300 horse and 800 foot offered the Emperour quietly to depart his Countrey so he would give him passage by Christopolis and transport them and their substance over Hellespont The Emperour considering the great harm done desirous to be discharged of them sent Sennacherib to conduct them out of Macedonia to the straits of Hellespont Where the Greeks thinking it indignity to suffer them to carry such abundance of horses mony c. taken from the Greeks into Asia and in hope of so rich a prey they neither provided for them shipping nor cared for their safety purposing by night to destroy them Os which the Turk understanding surprized a Castle thereby which they notably fortified the Greeks were glad to get further off and to certifie the Emperour thereof who delayed the time to his enemies advantage who speedily sent over the strait for aid of the Turks in Asia which they presently sent them wherewith encouraged they oft times grievously wasted the Country round about The Greek Captains greatly discontented requested Michael with all his power to come to suppress these dangerous enemies For which not only Soldiers but the Country in general flocked to Michael with spades and mattocks as though they would have digged down the Castle Most part of whose followers not considering the danger in gaining it proceeded carelesly and disorderly in their 〈◊〉 that their enemies who before feared the very fame of their coming therewith much more encouraged bestowed all their wealth c. within their trenches themselves with 800 chosen horsmen sallyed out to the place of the Imperial Ensign with which sudden and desperate eruption the Grecians especially the rustical terrified began to flee after whom by little and little all fled The Emperour did what he could to stay them but in so general a fear Who regarded him wherefore he was glad to flee with the rest Yet many expert Captains ashamed making stands stayed the barbarous from further pursuit In which doing many were taken by the Turks Whatsoever was found in the Emperour's Tent yea the Imperial Crown it self became a prey also which they say Chalel putting on his head scoffed at the Emperour After this the Turks spoiled almost all Thracia so that for 2 years the people scarce durst go out of their Towns to plow and sow the Emperours exceedingly grieved all their hope was in forreign aid wherein they found many difficulties their Coffers being empty by reason of their Territories so long wasted yet Andronicus sent to the Prince of 〈◊〉 his Son in Law But he making no haste and the misery encreasing one Phites Paleologus the Emperour 's Kinsman undertook his Countries deliverance He had been brought up in Court c. beloved of all for integrity of life but altogether unskilful of wars being by nature weak and sickly and more given to devotion than worldly affairs He requested the Emperour that with some small power and a few Captains of his own choice he might go out against the Turks hoping he said to revenge the wrong and return with victory Whereunto he easily yielded saying God delighted not in any mans leggs but in a contrite heart c. For I have seen said he the swift not to gain the prize c. the simple to gain favour and the subtil to fall into disgrace So he furnished him with such conveniences as he desired which he receiving first he by all waies of courtesie encouraged his Souldiers perswading them to a temperare life promising the war ended rewards according to every ones desert and before setting forth understanding Chalel with 1200 horse and foot was forraging about Byzia he hasted to encounter them by the way laden with spoil
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
〈◊〉 you though but few than if you were many Now they are come with innumerable Legions yet more than the Janizaries are no good Souldiers among them the rest as enforced serve them for fear c. We are not to fight for other mens houses and altars but for our own c. That God is able with his little finger if he will to destroy all the Turks in the World but he first makes proof of our courage for defence of his name that 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 he may 〈◊〉 it with his own fight 〈◊〉 They fight for their Prophet Authour of all 〈◊〉 for spoyle and 〈◊〉 destruction of 〈◊〉 other mens Kingdomes enlarging their 〈◊〉 worldly 〈◊〉 But we contrary wise c. A little refreshing your selves with a repast as you stand on the 〈◊〉 given thrice calling aloud upon the name of Christ sight as 〈◊〉 you can with like 〈◊〉 that He fought for your redemption c. for Christ will be 〈◊〉 present with us who believe me and so hope will not onely deliver us this day out of the Turks hands but load us with their 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and so bring all home in safety with much joy and 〈◊〉 The Bassa encouraged his 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 former Victories not to degenerate from their Ancestours and themselves to whom 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 interpreter had foretold the Empire of the whole World c. He filled them with hope of great spoyle promising to the Valiant whole Villages c. with great 〈◊〉 as they should deserve He assured them of Victory their enemies being weak and themselves a great number if they would fight it out like men That 〈◊〉 overcome Huniades whom he had found the most Valiant and skillful Christian Captaine nothing should 〈◊〉 their farther conquests willing them above all 〈◊〉 to seek 〈◊〉 him promising to him 〈◊〉 killed him 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 c. Both Armies being come within 〈◊〉 of a 〈◊〉 the signal given the battle began 〈◊〉 seeing the enemie cast his first battle in forme of a wedge the 〈◊〉 to divide them they in forme of a pare of Sheers were ready 〈◊〉 them where both sides encountred with a 〈◊〉 and outcry never more terrible They fought a while in the light horsemens wings with like hope but the Turks better acquainted with that kind of 〈◊〉 better appointed exceeding in number enforced the Christians to retire to the men 〈◊〉 force where was made a most terrible fight most of the Turks light horsemen were slain for they could not abide the men at armes force though but 〈◊〉 in Comparison of them so that the Turks in both wings began to faint But the battle yet wavering the Janizaries with men at armes and troopes of light 〈◊〉 compassed the Christian men at armes standing in the main battle where the old Janizaries with 〈◊〉 cut their horses legs asunder many of whom falling were made shorter by the head likewise the Janizaries were themselves trodden under foot Whereupon blood ran like Rivers most of the Janizaries being 〈◊〉 and many Christians also The Bassa yet in hope the Hungarians would faint with long fight came on with the 〈◊〉 ward and a number 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Souldiers left for guarding his baggage It was after four 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 He commanded them to compasse in the Hnngarians c. vainly boasting it would be the last battle ever they would fight Haniadis suffering part of his men to be 〈◊〉 caused the 〈◊〉 to thrust in with armed Carts c. behind the enemies and afterwards with fresh supplies renewed the batele The fight was great and though the Turks slaughter great 〈◊〉 not much feeling 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 multitude still 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 desperately till the 〈◊〉 wing seeing themselves compassed with waggons and thence 〈◊〉 with shot c. fearing the danger 〈◊〉 shrunk from the fight The Hungarians now more 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 their fainting enemies 〈◊〉 encouraging them in the waggons to approach them nearer the 〈◊〉 hardly 〈◊〉 and fighting disorderly first retired presently after fled They that were 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in c. all perished The lest wing discouraged 〈◊〉 likewise the Hungarians fiercely following The 〈◊〉 strucken with dispaire fled with some Janizaries kept for his persons safeguard whom so many 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 followed the rest flying 〈◊〉 woods and 〈◊〉 either perished with hunger or 〈◊〉 by the 〈◊〉 flain 〈◊〉 half the Army 〈◊〉 over 〈◊〉 Huniades content with so great a Victory 〈◊〉 them not far but with their Campes spoyle greatly enriched himself and his Souldiers 5000 〈◊〉 taken prisoners and 〈◊〉 Ensignes Huniades caused prayers with thanksgiving to be made for 3 dayes in 〈◊〉 those 3 〈◊〉 and hanged up at Vascape where the battle was fought certain Turks Ensignes Trophies of Victory It was the 〈◊〉 ever any Christian 〈◊〉 obtained against the Turk Many Inhabitants 〈◊〉 their 〈◊〉 for a season for fear of infection by the Turks 〈◊〉 wherewith the 〈◊〉 covered Then 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in triumph he presented 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 c. which he 〈◊〉 receiving and highly commending his Valour its 〈◊〉 shortly 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Amurath a 〈◊〉 before 〈◊〉 a proud Embassage to 〈◊〉 offering peace on 〈◊〉 him 〈◊〉 or paying him a yearly 〈◊〉 the King upon the 〈◊〉 report of the Victory 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to the issue of matters he would shortly in person come and give him further answer And for 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 power or desire of revenge 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 of his Kingdome with 〈◊〉 the Popes Legate sent 〈◊〉 thither to stir up the Hungarians against the Turks he propounded the danger 〈◊〉 and how it might be averted 〈◊〉 requested by the King to 〈◊〉 his 〈◊〉 first spake Since the Turkish 〈◊〉 began to rage in Europe no newes was more welcome to the 〈◊〉 Bishop c. than Uladistaus his being chosen King of Hungary for a fitter could not the Hungarians any where have found c. The Kingdom is by your force and valour my mediation and the Queen's death well pacified but yet the Turkish Tyranny c. is to be repressed c. If so great an Army was vanquished by one of thy Captain 's power but small what is to be hoped of thee most mighty King if thou shalt lead thine Armies in person under the Protection of Christ Jesus The eyes of all Christian Princes are upon thee c. And albeit the Common cause of Religion require thee to be a revenger c. yet Hungary and Poland's necessity no lesse enforce it of which one is miserably vexed with the Turke out of Servia and Dalmatia the other out of Moldavia and Valachia You lack not worthy Captaines money which shall be brought unto you from all part not lusty and couragious Souldiers not policy not for tune c. you want nothing but will It 's an Expedition necessary religious profitable and honourable wherein are all ample rewards in this life and the life to come Wherefore I beseech you by the faith of Christ by love of your Children health of your Kingdome c. with valiant
〈◊〉 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
executing divers Hungarians yet after ten years being inlarged he died in battel against the Turks Mahomet sent the same Fleet into the Aegeum to take the Islands who before under the Constantinopolitan had put themselves now under the Venetian especially Mitylene pretending its Prince harbored the Italian Pirates and others buying prisoners and booty taken from the Turks at Sea and along the Sea-coast also that he slaying his eldest Brother unjustly governed Himself passing into Asia came to Possidium over against Mitylene Landing his small Army over the narrow Strait he soon over-ran and spoiled the Island captivating all its Inhabitants who being sold at Constantinople were thence dispersed Then besieging the Prince in the City Mitylene he battered it twenty seven dayes and the defendants by sharp assaults greatly diminished the Prince offered to yield up all in the Isle for some other Province of like value which Mahomet accepting solemnly sware to perform The Prince humbly comming forth excused himself for receiving the men of Warre that they might not spoil his own Country denying he had bought or shared any of their prizes Mahomet seemingly contented cheared him with good words yet all being delivered into his hands he put to death many of the chief Citizens cutting three hundred Pirates in the middle and placing Garisons he returned carrying the Prince with him and all the better sort with all the wealth leaving his Garrisons with a few of the poorest people Being arrived he closly imprisoned the Prince with his cousin used in killing his Brother who in danger of their lives every houre offered renouncing Christianity to turn Turk Mahomet in rich Apparel triumphantly circumcising them set them at liberty yet bearing the old grudge soon clapt them fast again cruelly putting them to death Shortly after Stephen King of Bosna who through the Turks support had wrongfully obtained it against his two brethren refused to pay Mahomet his promised tribute wherefore entring Bosna he besieged Dorobiza which taken one part of the people he gave slaves to his men of War sending another to Constantinople a third to inhabite the City Marching to Jaziga now Jaica the chiefe City it was delivered after four months on composition Here taking the Kings Brother and Sister with most of the Nobles he sent them in Triumph to Constantinople The lesser Cityes yielded also Mahomet sent Mahometes Bassa to pursue the King retired into the farthest parts who so inclosed him before he was aware that he could not escape a thing thought impossible The King taking refuge of Clyssa was so hardly laid to that he yielded himself on the Bassaes solemne oath conceived in writing that he being honourably used should not be hurt by the Emperour The Bassa carryed him about with him till he possessed all Bosna whose Master was offended with him for engà ging his Faith so far The poor King departing was suddenly sent for who doubting carryed the Bassas Oath in writing yet the faithlesse Tyrant most cruelly put him to death or as some slew him quick Bosna was subverted by Mahomet in 1464 who reducing it into a province returned in great triumph to Constantinople with many a wofull Captive and that Kingdom 's wealth Mahomet in the beginning of his reigne sent to Scanderbeg offering him peace so he would pay him the yearly tribute demanded by Amurath rather to prove his confidence than in hope to have it granted Scanderbeg scornfully rejecting this entred into the Turks bordered dominion wasting the Country returning with spoyl Mahomet in revenge sent Amesa with 12000 Horse into Epirus to do the like of whose comming he understanding lay close with 6000 on the Mountain Modrissa The Turks by night being almost gotten to its rough and sleep top were suddenly charged and with great slaughter driven down amaine their horses being rather their hinderance Being come to the foot they were againe fiercely assailed by Scanderbeg on one side and his Nephew Amesa on the other who before had placed themselves advantagiously So that the Turks soone overthrowne were put to flight 7000 were slaine Amesa their Generall taken with divers Captaines and sent to Croia where was great triumph and feasting for joy Scanderbeg then enlarging Amesa and the rest to be partakers thereof and using them with all courtesie during their abode Amesa requested he might send to Mahomet how the case stood with them and to procure their ransome which Scanderbeg granting set downe at 13000 Duckats The newes sore grieved the Tyrant but seeing the Armies remainder most of their Ensignes and Armour lost and Amesa's messenger he enraged denied any thing for ransome imputing all to his treachery folly or cowardise Yet he was perswaded by his Bassaes and other Amesaes friends to think better of him and to send his ransome lest he should discourage other Captaines who might haply fall into like danger on receipt whereof they freed were conveyed out of Epirus Scanderbeg dividing the mony among his Souldiers The Tyrant determining to send another Army and promising great rewards c to the vanquisher of Scanderbeg among others Debrias in great favour by great sute obtained that charge promising confidently to make a better beginning than others before sent requiring no more power than was sent the yeare before But Amesa setting forth Scanderbegs virtues and valour with his Souldiers courage Debrias was content with a new supply having 14000 with whom marching to Polagus and encamping with great security being not yet come into Enemies Country Scanderbeg chose 6000 of his best Horsemen and marching 〈◊〉 all speed came by night where the Turks lay to be upon them before aware But by the Moon-light he was timely discried yet the sudden approach and strange attempt oismaied the whole Army But Debrias encouraging his Souldiers sent light Horse-men to receive the first charge till he might set his Army in order betwixt whom and others of Scanderbeg's a sharp skirmish beginning Scanderbeg doubting seconded them with fresh Troops under Amesa by whose comming the Turks were chased even to their main battell In which Moses had following too fast been enclosed had not Amesa stayed his fury blamed by Scanderbeg commending such forewardnesse in a private Souldier not in so great a Commander Scanderbeg now fiercely affailed the Turks with his Army Debrias so encouraged his Souldiers that Scanderbegs fortune was even at a stand till Musachius with resolute Troops out of the left wing so charged that he sore disordered the side of the Turks Army which Debrias perceiving came to that place cheering them up with his presence and valour seeming the life of his Army Scanderbeg the while mainly charging the Enemies front they began in their Generalls absence to loose order and give ground Moses then breaking into the thickest threw amongst his followers a taken Ensigne who thereby so pressed on their Enemies that they discouraged and disordered were almost ready to 〈◊〉 Debrias here-upon hastening to encourage his Souldiers among the foremost was
now turning withstood their enemies at which instant those in ambush came down the hill with such violence and clamour that the Venetians being on every side beset were all slain except a few who yielded themselves Many also of the other two battalions being in flight slain The Count himself and Sonne with half the Horsemen were lost The Turks encouraged spoiled all Friuli betwixt Sontium and Tiliaventum So burning the Country that 100 Villages were to be seen on a light fire at once So laden with spoil driving before them great numbers of Captives they returned to Sontium and passing the River that all thought them to be quite gone they returning passed the River Tiliaventum no lesse harming on that side than before on the other So returning the way they came This overthrow being accounted among the greatest they received from the Turks Next year about Harvest 1478. they passing Sontium came before the Forrs with a far greater power offering to draw Fortebrachius into the field but he wary stood on his Guard expecting to take them at advantage wherefore the Turks durst not disperse for spoil So going about 4 miles they turning up into part of the Alps towards Germany grievously spoiled those people strangely passing those abrupt and high Mountains with their Horses then returning home another way about Mahomet determining once more to engage his whole forces for the winning of Scodra gave order both in Europe and Asia for assembling his best Souldiers seldom or never having a stronger Army first he sent Aly-beg with 80000 Achanzij towards Scodra who are Horsemen that having Lands for life from the King are bound to serve on their own charge as forerunners when he besiegeth a place who burning and spoiling till they come to the appointed place may depart or stay when all the Army is come Scodra's Governour fortifying night and day provided all necessaries for a long siege sending forth the aged c. into safer places and taking in many able men about the Countrey among whom were many Marriners or others who got their living on the River and lake of Scodra The Mountains North from the City the while shining with fires and the smoak drawing nearer and nearer soon after the Countrey people with what they could carry came running to the Cities by the Sea side crying out The Turks were come And next day May 14. Aly Beg with his Achanzij encamped in the Suburbs that none could go in or out Scander-Beg Governour of Bosna and Malcotius the Majesty of whose countenance and resplendent beames of his eyes were of such piercing brightness that none was able with fixed eye long to behold them with 7000 Horse joyning unto him of which Horsemen the Christians with often sallies and shot slew many with little or no losse Ten dayes after came Taut Bassa of Constantinople with 25000 men and about 12000 Came's most laden with metall to make Ordnance c. whose stately Purple-Tent was pitch'd on a hill where Solyman had layn about 4 years before his Army encamping between that and the Town Taut was born in Epirus of mean Parentage and for his wit and activity was thus promoted and suspected he would have aspired the Empire Whilest the great Ordnance were casting the Bassa made a great Bridge over the River to passe at pleasure The busied Christians the while were so vigilant that no Turk stirred within shot but he was slain June 13. Mustapha Viceroy of Asia came with 30000 Asians to the Siege personable men but not accounted so good Souldiers as the Europeans whose rich green Pavilion was pitched in a Vineyard about a mile from the Town Mustapha propounding a reward to whomsoever durst touch the Cities walls two Souldiers well mounted hastening thither were both slain from the wall one of whose bodies being recovered by a salley his Head was set on a Launce upon the Wall 's top June 15. 5600 Janizaries comming to the Camp the Bassaes wellcommed them with a wondrous shout 3. dayes after came two other great men with many followers desiring safely to speak with the Governour and Captains of the City Which granted the Elder after setting forth his Master's power and what he had done to others perswaded them to yield assuring them of all kind usage with rich rewards otherwise to expect nought but extreme misery and death in whose name Pagnanus answered They feared not Mahomets greatness c. that he should find it hard to enforce them impossible to perswade them c. concluding they should expect no answer to any such motion hereafter but from the Cannons mouth At this time Croia having held out a yeares siege for lack of Victuals was yielded to the Turk on condition that the hunger-starv'd defendants might safely depart at pleasure who not withstanding put them all to the sword the Scodrians being much grieved but not discouraged thereat The Watermen comming often down the River by night and much hurting the Camp they builded some Gallies to keep them in who yet stealing on them much troubled 〈◊〉 who June 22 mounting 2 great Ordnance on the 〈◊〉 hill one carrying a stone Bullet of 300 l. the other of 400 battered the Town four dayes then planting a third piece at the Hills foot bearing a bullet of 400 l. and next day they planted a 4th piece about the middle of the Hill carrying 650 weight The while came 8000 Asapi into the Campe and shortly after came Mahomet with all his Army to the River Drinon where the two Bassaes pompously met him Who July 2 comming to the Campe after viewing Scodra's Scituation is reported to have said O what a stately place hath the Eagle chosen to build her nest and hatch her young ones in Round about his divers rich Tents lay the Janizaries whereinto was but one entrance most strongly guarded about the Janizaries all the rest of the Army encamped and still more resorting daily thither it was deemed Mahomet to have in all 350000 men Against which terrour the defendants were notably encouraged by one Bartholmew who being somtimes Scanderbegs Souldier was become a Preacher July the 5th the Turks mounted two other great pieces one like the former but the other discharging a 1200 pound shot being called the Prince's piece and wherewith the Turks had from the beginning threatned the besieged Next day a 7th piece carrying 550 pound was planted on the same Bassaes Mount they casting in Fire-balls out of Morter-pieces by night to fire the City but divers Citizens uncovering their houses and by men watching the fall of the fire works c the Enemie's device took no effect Then also they casting huge stones out of short Mortar-pieces which falling from on high crushed what ever they lighted on wondrously troubled the defendants Few dayes after they mounting three other piece's one was bigger then the Prince's carrying 1300 weight So battering the City daily with 10 such pieces as hath been seldome heard of Arrowes falling like haile showers
Sea into Italy But Bostanges with a Fleet on Ionia's coast hindered Corcutus escape so that he hid himself in a Cave nigh the Sea-side hoping to find some opportunity in few daies he living thus with Countrey-Crabs c. a good while and forced to send his man to a Shepherd's Cortage for relief was discovered to Cassumes by a Peasant seeking after his life and being apprehended was carried towards Prusa and being within a dayes journey thereof Selimus sent Kirengen Ogli called of his squint look Chior Zeinall to strangle him and bring his body to Prusa who awakening him in the dead of the night told him He was sent to see him executed which must presently be done Corcutus deeply sighing desired to be so long spared as to write a few lines to Selimus which guiltlesse he readily in Turkish verse reproved him of his most horrible cruelty upbraiding him with his Father's Nephews and thirsting after his and Achomates guiltlesse blood and concluding with bitter curses besought God justly to revenge so much innocent blood requesting the Captain the letter with his dead body might be delivered to Selimus which being next day done for he was presently strangled Selimus uncovering the face to be sure it was he took and read the paper from his hand which done he bursting into tears protested he was never so troubled at any mans death and commanding a general mourning in the Court he Princely buried his body and 3 daies after struck off 15 of the Searchers heads flinging the bodies into the Sea saying If he were driven to flee and hide himself they would not stick so to serve him Achomates at Spring set forward with his Army from Amasia being frequently excited by friends letters assuring him Selimus might be easily oppressed if with expedition he would come to Prusa the Janizaries and Europaean horse being then absent and himself as hated of God and man could not in so unexpected danger tell what best to do c. wherefore they willed him to hasten c. lest Selimus should call together his dispersed forces c. for Summer being come he must either conquer by plain battel which was hard or get him out of Cappadocia and the lesser Asia He hoping for better success as well for his own strength supply of horse from Hysmael and chiefly hoping Selimus now hated would be forsaken in time of battel yielded to his friends perswasion and being come into Galatia with above 15000 horse left his foot for haste to come after wherefore Selimus sent speedily for his horse and while he levyed common Souldiers Achomates friends with Selimus did by Letters earnestly perswade him to make haste from Paphlagonia before Selimus his Janizaries and horsemen were come he also making all speedy and possible preparation c. which letters being intercepted Selimus executing the writers caused others to be written in their names to Achomates and signed with their Seals with all speed to come on and not stay for his foot since Selimus might be easily oppressed with a few Troops if he would but shew himself to his friends who on the signal of battel would tumult kill Solimus going to fro and having them cunningly delivered Achomates giving credit much presuming on his strength left his footmen under Amurath encamping with his horse nigh Mount Horminius upon Parthenius bank Selimus going from Prusa 10000 Janizaries lately being come to him sent Sinan Bassa his Asian horse-General to prove his enemies strength who not knowing where Achomates lay through the mornings darknesse was set upon in a disadvantagious place and losing 7000 fled back with other 8000. Selimus not discomfited marched to the River Elata which running out of Horminius into Pontus watereth most large fields on the right hand called the Plains of the new Land So did Achomates who though Selimus was too strong for him yet being now encouraged and hoping upon his friends with Selimus neither retired nor expected his others coming the River was betwixt them and their number discovered yet Achomates to whom the open fields offered a safe retreat could not be perswaded to provide in time for his and his Armies safety Selimus passing the River commanded every man to be ready for battel next day and placing 1000 horse under Canoglis his wives brother sent a little before from Taurica with some choise Tartarians in ambush in a wood charged him to charge the enemy battel being joyned on their backs and when it was day he put his Army into battalia Achomates having no Foot dividing his Horse into two wings Whilst they thus stood Achomates offered Selimus to try their quarrels equity hand to hand which if refused he took God and the world to witnesse Selimus was the only cause of the blood to be shed who answered He was not to do that at Achomates appointment and though he could be content so to do his Souldiers would not suffer him c. returning the Messenger with 1000 Aspers reward Achomates charging his brother's right wing they valiantly received them but when it came to handy-blows they by the force of the Persians well armed were disordered and forced with great losse to retire Wherefore Selimus to encourage them brought on his left wing and his Janizaries also who with their shot enforced the other to retire Achomates careful couragiously coming on with fresh Troops the battel was renewed and whilst he was in great hope of victory Canoglis rising out of ambush with great out-cries caused their enemies to turn upon them the Footmen standing close charged them a Front and the Horse who had fled were for shame also returned so that Achomates being beset his Ensigns were taken many slain the rest fled and himself fleeing fell with his horse into a rainy and miry ditch and being taken could not obtain to be presently slain but was reserved to Selimus his pleasure who sent Kirengen with a Bow-string to strangle him whose dead body being brought to Selimus was royally buried at Prusa Amurath hearing on the way by the Persians who made their way thorough the Turks of what happened returned to Amasia resolving with his brother he with the Persians to flee to Hysmael Aladin to flee into Syria and so to Campsoa Gaurus Sultan of Aegypt Selimus after this soon with little trouble bringing all lesser Asia under and disposing of all things would return to Constantinople but the Plague being there hot he came to Hadrianople where he spent that Summer and the next Winter So to Constantinople the mortality being ceased 160000 having there dyed Hysmael sending for Amurath demanded why he came who by his heavy countenance and abundance of tears expressed the cause yet briefly declared That his Father Uncle and Consens had lately been murdered by the Tyrant Selimus who sought also his and his Brothers life wherefore they were glad to flee Hysmael taking him into his protection willed him to be chearful promising him ayd shortly giving him his
ease and plenty or honourably end their miseries at once for the Horsemen especially the Europeans whose Horses were starved and the Foot spent with travel and a great flux living mostly on Crabs c. with a supping of meal and Vinegar began to die in every corner Hysmael to terrific them the more sent a Herald to Selimus with some skilful Souldiers to view what they could his number Artillery and how encamped telling him seeing the Turks had no Title to Armenia c. he marvelled why he entred his Dominion but if as Alexander the great he should think so much his own as by the Sword he could win he should next day prove his fortune and others forces not inferior to his Selimus answered the manifold injuries done to the Turks by the Persians formerly and also in his Warres against Achomates might give him just cause yet he esteemed them not sufficient causes of Warre only seeking after Amurat lately spoiling Cappadocia whom if he would friendly deliver to him as mutual Laws of amity required he would peaceably return else he threatned to destroy with fire and Sword even the heart of Persia. Next day Selimus set forward in order of battel against the enemies laying about two miles off thinking so great a Prince would fight without delay yet what strength c. the Persian was of he certainly knew not for the ingenious Persians generally so loved Hysmael that not one went to the Turks whereas many revolted from Selimus to him Selimus having 80000 Horse placed Casan Bassa with his Europeans in the right Wing Sinan Bassa with his Asians in the left before them both the Acanzii in the middle the Asapi behind them the Artillery guarded with 4000 Horse lastly following himself with his Pensioners and Janizaries compassed with his small Field-pieces and Carriages commanding his Vant-guard Foot upon the enemies approach speedily to divide that the great Ordnance might play betwixt them Hysmael understanding by fugitives his enemies devices said to his chief Commanders there was no doubt of Victory if they could shun the Artillery wherefore when the Turks Foot divided they should likewise withdraw into two parts causing two great Ensigns to be displayed whither then to retire one for himself the other for Usta Ogli and the rest He had about 30000 Horse no Foot among whom were 10000 men at Arms resolute experienced mounted on couragious barbed Horses and bravely armed no Guns in which and number they were inferior to the Turks yet contemning about 300000 Turks and little reckoning of their Artillery they doubted not to give them battel being also exhorted by Hysmael to remember their former Honour c. telling them they had to do with such whose Weapons were but weak Staves and light Targets their Horses little poor jades almost dead with hunger Selimus gave notice that the long-wished for battel was come wherein if they would worthily acquit themselves they should to their immortal fame extend the Turkish Empire from the Persian Sea to Mount Caucasus but if otherwise they must not think to escape by flight through those desolate Countries where they either should perish or being taken be forced alwayes to serve the Persian Women also Euphrates Taurus and Aladeules who had shut up the passages did cut off all such hope The Asapi making place for the Artillery to play Hysmael also dividing charged the Turk's right wing so forcibly that Casan Bassa after a terrible fight with the foremost being slain and many after them that wing was forced to retire unto Selimus but Usta Ogli who had no small harm by the Ordnance as not clearing his men so speedily as Hysmael charged their left wing making great slaughter and in his couragious assail was slain with a small shot Wherewith the Turks encouraged who before gave ground renewed the battel and with their terrifying Harque-busiers drave the Persians upon the Turk 's common foot who serring together brake thorow them bearing them down with a mighty slaughter and slaying the Cannoniers who discharging at all adventure slew many of their own as of enemies so making way till they came to the right wing where Hysmael still hardly charging the European Horses they were forced to retire but now charged afresh scarce able to endure it cryed to Selimus for help who opening his carriages sent out part of his Horsemen and said to his Janizaries that dayes Victory was reserved to their valour therefore as fresh men they should assail their wearied enemies whose Horses were all on a water and the men faint under their Armour yet Selimus could say they were not very forward and whilest they leisurely set forward the Persians slew the European Horsemen down right and were ready to assail Selimus himself on every side but Sinan Bassa though his wing was sore rent came in in good time and with some fresh Troops restored the battel almost lost but chiefly by the courage of Alisbeg and his Brother Mahomet resembling their warlike Father Malcozzius Selimus still in hope commanded all the Ordnance about him to be discharged whereby such slaughter was made of his own as well as of his enemies that for dust smoak noise of the Artillery both sides almost losing sight and hearing their Horses terrified with the Ordnance not now to be ruled the battel brake off the Victory yet doubtful The Turkish Histories tearm this the onely day of doom Hysmael being wounded under his left shoulder with a small shot and withdrawing through perswasion to have it searched was the safeguard of Selimus and his Army for they following their King left the Victory thought by all to be almost gotten but Hysmael perceiving the wound was not deep he was about to charge a fresh but hearing of Oglie's death in whom was his greatest confidence his Captains also perswading him not to set light by his wound whose grief he yet felt not being warm he softly marched away as not resembling flight and passing by Tauris willed the Citizens to open the Gates to Selimus if he came rather than to fall into destruction himself marching in Media's confines The Turks having no hearts nor strength to pursue them yet took their Tents where besides much rich furniture were many Ladies and Gentlewomen who Persian-like had followed their Husbands in those Warres whom Selimus safely freed except a Wife of Hysmael whom he gave in marriage to a Bassa Some there present reported that divers Persian women were found among the dead armed whom Selimus honestly buried This notable battel in the Galderan fields nigh Coy was fought August 7th 1514. Selimus losing above 30000 men Cusun Lievetenant of Europe being one Seven Sanzacks two being the Malcozzian Brethren who were slain rescuing each other most of his European Horse the flower of his Army being almost all slain or grievously wounded yet he having the Victory by his enemies confession and having Embassadors from Coy and other Cities also from Tauris promising to relieve
to extenuate their ranks they would be ready to skirmish and suddenly come to handiblows tumbling down upon them great stones from the Mountains their Harquebusiers through the weathers rayniness and tempestuousness serving to little purpose yet the Janizaries climbing up the hills with Pikes and driving them from their standings near the Emperors Person no 〈◊〉 hurt was done Sinan who returning had put to death the Authors of the treachery at Gaza confiscating their Goods and exacted a great sum of the People in general went to meet Selimus with his victorious Souldiers who gave to the Captains generally and particularly the 〈◊〉 common Souldiers silk Garments with a great sum of money as a reward He stayed but four dayes at Gaza and although his expedition required great haste yet his Army was to be refreshed and great provision to be made for carriage of water on Cammels backs thorow the drie solitary and light 〈◊〉 Desarts by the winde much troubling the weary passengers but such a sudden calm ensued the great rain falling few dayes before that Selimus wanted nothing no not plenty of water for the happy conduct of his Army yet the wild Arabians all along hovered about them for prey snatching up and slaying any that stragled or stayed behind but he provided an easie re-medy by placing his Field-pieces in divers parts to be upon danger discharged upon them also strong Harquebusiers in the rear-ward for defence of the weak who could but softly follow By this meanes with small losse he in 8 dayes drew nigh to Caire Sinan with his Europeans keeping a dayes journey before Into a Village called Matharea famous for plenty of excellent balm about six miles from Caire nigh the Village Rhodania Tomombeius conveighing all his new and old Artillery had drawn deep ditches a crosse the field and high way closly covering them with weak hurdles and earth and he with about 12000 Mamalukes and a multitude of Arabian Horsemen lay in convenient places that the Turks approaching might feel the force of his Ordnance before come within Arrowes shot and forthwith to set upon them disordered and entrapped so that none doubted of the success a great mischief to the Turks if the treachery of a few had not frustrated their great endeavors For 4 Epirot Mamalukes grieving at the preferment of Tomombeius whether upon malice or hope of reward c. or in that declining of their Kingdom to seek new friends fled secretly to Sinan who being born in a Village of Epirus a Sow kept in the House is reported to have bit off his Genitories being a Child sleeping in a shady place and being brought to Constantinople by the takers up of minions for 〈◊〉 Turk was presented to Mahomet the great where 〈◊〉 advanced him to his appointed honours whom she had before dismembered instructing Selimus and him especially what stratagems Tomombeius had devised whereinto they must needs fall if they forlook not the high way Wherefore by their guidance they by a great compass and unusual way came before day shewing themselves at their enemies backs in order of 〈◊〉 with their Artillery ready bent Tomombeius though above measure 〈◊〉 at the frustrating of all that he with such industry and labour had brought to pass yet being of an invincible courage entered into his wonted devices telling quickly his chief Commanders what to do the Signal for making ready was to be given the battel to be ordered the 〈◊〉 encouraged and his Ordnance to be quite contrary turned hardly at once to be directed by one and hastily to be done by many but especially the great concourse for removing of the huge iron 〈◊〉 like Ship Ordnance most troubled the well ordering of the rest with their tumultuous stir but 〈◊〉 and constancy much helped their difficulties who although twice overcome and in so suddain an accident were still of greater spirit and confidence Wherefore Tomombeius the signal being given commanded his Arabians to enclose the enemie's wings behind skirmishing with them that if possible the Turks Horsmen might be 〈◊〉 before he came to charge them 〈◊〉 his Ordnance presently to be discharged So did the Turks likewise bringing them within an arrow-shot So that for a good space they beat one upon another with their Ordnance only the Egyptians Cannoneers being almost all 〈◊〉 and many of their Field-peeces broken by the others shot For Selimus had allured many excellent Canoniers out of Italy and Germany chiefly of those Jews who were banished Spain by Ferdinand dispersing 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 those devices thorough the East Jacobus Regio Lepidi was the chief a cunning Engineer who lately through the Turks rewards revolted to 〈◊〉 But after the matter brought to battel the 〈◊〉 with a most hideous cry furiously assailed the Turks in three 〈◊〉 for Selimus keeping his wont approached his enemies in form of a half Moon Mustapha 〈◊〉 the Asians in the right wing Jonuses the Europeians in the left himself the main battel Sinan the General of the field led a 〈◊〉 number of selected Horsmen 〈◊〉 five hundred 〈◊〉 Harquebusiers ready against all uncertain events So almost at once four sharp battels were made in divers places Some present report that what for clamour 〈◊〉 of Instruments of War and rising of the 〈◊〉 all were so confounded that mistaking one another they sle v many friends instead of 〈◊〉 never battels meeting with greater 〈◊〉 nor two Kings with lesse care of their persons and safety 〈◊〉 desperately shewed their strength and courage Gazellus to requite the Eurepeians for the 〈◊〉 not far from Gaza very suriously 〈◊〉 Jonuses and at first 〈◊〉 brake his first Ranks 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of his Guidons and the Arabians then pressing in behind forced 〈◊〉 victorious the flower of Thrace Thessalia Epirus 〈◊〉 and Grecia to 〈◊〉 which never enemy before saw but Sinan comming speedily in with his fresh Troops 〈◊〉 the declining battel and while he was fighting couragiously in the head of his battel he was by 〈◊〉 Bidon coming in slain to rescue whose dead body while his followers laboured they were by Gazellus unfolding his Troops most slain the rest put to flight and the five hundred choise Janizaries now destitute of Horse when they had done what was possible were compassed cut in pieces and trodden under foot in a trice Mustapha in the other wing sore pressed the Egyptians left wing which valliant Helymis the Diadare and Giapal led who had lately received great harm by Selimus his overthwart Ordnance Mustapha hereupon with his whole Troops overthrew their broken Ranks and glistering with a lond voyce encouraged his Asians by valour or honourable death to recover their honour lost in the fields of Aleppo Then also Tomombeius breaking thorow the middle battle of the Turks-Horse entered among the Foot giving many a deadly wound with his Scimitar he being big and strong The Arabians also had enclosed the uttermost of the Turks forcing them in many places to turn upon them being doubtfully charged before and
from his angry enemy These passing into Sigesta were barbarously slain by some Mamalukes chancing on them to gratifie Tomombeius now not knowing of it and shew they desired no peace Selimus provoked by so great injury provided all things necessarie for his expedition into Sigesta against Tomombeius and for his honour and conveniency mad a strong Bridge to passe over Nilus with all small Vessels and Lighters he could gather Tomombeius understanding hereof and fearing the Country-people's revolt by means of Albuchoâ—ar determined once again to prove the fortune of a battel wherefore by advice of his best Captains he timely departed out of Sigesta with 4000 Mamalukes and 8000 Moors and Arabians travelling day and 〈◊〉 to come to Nilus the Turks suspecting no such thing from their weak enemies hoping by his suddain approach to overthrow part of the Turks Army first passing the River before relieved from tother side and fitly came to the place even as the Asian Horsmen were come over the Bridge Selimus his harbingers and Pages being gone somewhat farther then the rest to choose a fit place for his Pavilion perceiv'd their coming by the dust Mustapha suddenly raising an alarm brought great fear both on them passed over and on them on the further side Tomombeius assailing them while but putting themselves in order c. slew those that resisted discomfiting the rest neither could Mustapha by his invincible courage or perswasion repair his disordered Battel or stay their flight all being full of tumult slaughter and fear and all along the Rivers Bank Turks ruthfully looking on the River cryed to those on tother side for help many forced to take the River perished Others striving to return by the Bridge through fear or being overborn by their fellows sell in and were drowned Four men abreast might pass at once but the Ordnance passing over fewer Horse were sent than the sudden danger required nor could their Ordnance be discharged without hurt to the further Banks their own men standing between Selimus the while filling a number of Boats c. with his Harquebusse Janizaries hasted his Horsmen over the Bridge for relief in which Boats the Watermen were so nimble that they soon transported divers bands of them which wondrously comforted the Asians ready to give over Canoglis also with loss of a few Horsmen swam over the River to the Beholder's admiration but the Tartars had oft by Troops swam over Taurus and Valga Rivers as dangerous as Nile For speedy Victories sake Tomombeius strained with might and main to gain the Bridge's-head by plucking away some few Boats to shut in his enemies and by cutting the Cables fastning them to the Bank the Bridge with Turks thereon might be carried away by the River's force whereupon a most bloudy sight arose Mustapha having drawn his Ensigns and best Souldiers thither And being relieved by Janizaries and European Horse comne over in great number they by little and little enforced them to retire This Mustapha the Hungarian Baiazet's son in Law built for his Fame that notable stately stone-Bridge of the spoils of this Victory over the River Stremon by which men pass over into 〈◊〉 wondring thereat Tomombeius to give a breathing rime to his Mamalukes with their fainting Horses exhorted the Moors and the Arabians awhile to charge the enemy which after their manner they valiantly performed Then the Mamalukes so suriously renewed the Battel that Selimus doubting the Victory though perswaded to the contrary adventured over the Bridge in person by whose coming his Souldiers encouraged repressed the enemie's fury Who soon after by fresh Janizaries coming on were notably repulsed and at length put to flight fresh Horsmen pursuing them all the fields over The Tartars also who through the streams force recovered not the further Bank so soon were now come in augmenting the slaughter with their swift Horses Selymus not assured of any thing gotten while Tomombeius lived commanded Mustapha Gazelles and Cayerbeius with fresh Troops of light Horse to pursue him not to 〈◊〉 if possible who making speed overtook him next day at a 〈◊〉 of a 〈◊〉 deep Fenn where having a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 hewas about to cut off a wooden Bridge to binder the pursuit some of 〈◊〉 followers being flain and taken he again fled The third day all his men being almost lost and he come in 〈◊〉 Sucussane 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 these 〈◊〉 Captains denouncing to the people thereabouts all extremities and tortures if they diligently kept not those Marish passages that he should not escape he was so 〈◊〉 that he hid himself in a foul deep marsh alone and was soon by the Peasants search found up to the shoulders in water among the flags who delivering him bound he was with certain 〈◊〉 taken in flight 〈◊〉 to Caire Selimus resolving his death and the rather for the injury to his Embassadors not admitting him to his presence commanded him to be 〈◊〉 to reveal Campsons great Treasures which he was thought to have 〈◊〉 wherein he is reported with great constancy and stern look to 〈◊〉 nothing but deep sighs and groans after which he was set on a lean Camel in ragged apparel with his hand 's bound behind him and so carried in derision thorow all the notable places of the City Then bringing him to the chief gate Basuela they there openly 〈◊〉 him with a rope hanging him up by the neck upon an Iron hook in an arch of that gate so leaving him to the worlds wonder This misery befell him April 13. 1517. Many shed tears to behold so lamentable a Spectacle seeming thereby to detest that unworthy death of their late Sultan yet the Janizaries reproved them threatning them with death who like giddy brain'd fools they said enured to the slavery of the Mamalukes thankfully accepted not their deliverance for the Aegyptians doubted lest the Turks no more courteous then the Mamalukes should no less tyrannize over them under their cruel Emperour they remembred also that Tomombeius with a general favour rose by all degrees of honour to the regal Dignity with which also and his Martial 〈◊〉 his tall and strong body grave countenance and long and hoary beard well agreed Divers of the Mamaluke Princes with some of the common sort ran he same fortune No power being now heard of in all Egypt to renew the War Selimus dividing his Forces sent them to take in the Aegyptian Provinces farther off Alexandria after the Battel of Caire expelling the 〈◊〉 and easily surprizing the 〈◊〉 of Pharus 〈◊〉 many dayes before to the Turks Damiata 〈◊〉 submitting 〈◊〉 to them and every City betwixt Nilus and Judaea and Arabia's borders yielding to Selimus his obedience Also the African Kings boroering on Cyrenaica the Sultan's Tributaries or Confederates sent him Embassadours with 〈◊〉 The wild Arabians chiefly they of Africk only remained who losing many friends in ayding Tomombeius 〈◊〉 thought would never submit to the Turk These wanderers living mostly by theft had filled all from Euphrates running by the
it 't was not so strong as they supposed The Emperour after few dayes consulting and preparing things resolved without delay to assault it with all his forces for many reasons chiefly for that his men began to grow sickly scorched as it were all the day and almost starved with cold by night and exceeding dewes commonly wetting them to the skin neither was there good water or fresh Victual to be had in that sandy and barren Soil other than out of the Fleet for the water was so unpleasant and brackish that sick and whole were glad of a Crab to quench extream thirst yet much relief was timely sent from Sicilie and Naples the Bisket also chiefly in the Spanish Gallies was grown hoary and unwholsom about July 15th he began to place his battery defended with Gabions and Caske of Sand. Aurias divided his Gallies into three Squadrons which should by turns beat on the Castle his great Ships at Anchor thundred from their fore-Castles with great Ordnance Vastius divided Spaniards Italians and Germans apart for assault There was never strong place since Guns were invented assailed with greater force preparation or industry The Earth seeming not onely to quake but even by and by to swallow them up the Sea beginning to rage and foam as in a great storm the Air became thick and dark with smoak from day-break till noon the Cannon and Culvering never ceased so that the Vamures were beat down the Castle saultable and many Turkish Cannoniers and Cannons buried in the Walls ruines which being perceived upon a Signal given the Artillery ceasing the breach was assailed and the Walls scaled and with such resolution that the Turks having done what was possible by casting down Darts Wild-fire c. upon them climbing up at length as despairing fled Sinan and the other Captains fled forth at the further side by a Woodden Bridge and so by Land to Tunis which way most of his men followed him The rest were slain or driven into the Lake where they were slain coming to Land by Horsemen or in swiming shot by the Harquebusiers the Lake being even covered with dead bodies This Castle with all its Warlike Provision and all Barbarussa's great Fleet his and his Pyrates greatest grief Charls gained with small losse Barbarussa troubled and terrified sternly and scornfully received Sinan and the rest reviling and calling them faint-hearted Cowards so soon giving over so strong a place Sinan answered when they were to withstand the Devil and his furies c. it ought not to seem strange if they sought to escape Neither did they count it a disgrace as men that minded again to fight from which danger if himself had been present he would have accounted it very good discretion to escape Hairadin now began more temperately to request every one of them couragiously to stand fast to him well hoping that the great supply of Moorish foot and Numidian Horse at hand once come the enemy should not long joy in taking Guletta Then he wholly indeavoured to prepare things needful for Warre bountifully bestowing his Treasures among the Moores and Numidians to confirm the well-affected and to win the doubtful Muleasses the while with a small retinue came into the Emperour's Camp he sitting royally in his Pavilion who being admitted with a Myter and a green and blew silk Garment he tall and manly tawny so squint-eyed that he seemed to look spitefully kissing Charls his hand sat down with his legs close under him upon a Carpet on the ground after his Countries fashion speaking unto him by an Interpreter that he was come thither not by any desert of his their different Religion so requiring yet he verily thought not but by the appointment of the most high God whom both did with like devotion worship to take revenge of the most perfidious cruel Tyrant and Pyrate whom he saw as good as vanquished Guletta and his Navy being taken c. which would be the more to his comfort hoping thereby to be restored by him into his Fathers Kingdom which he most humbly requested of his justice and honour not refusing to pay him tribute and to acknowledge himself his Vassal of which the remembrance of so great a benefit never to be forgotten of him and his Posterity was a most great assurance he abhorring the name of unthankful and experimentally finding how much his State and People might be assured to him by his near Garrisons in Sicilie and Sardinia The Emperour answered he was come into Africk to revenge the injuries done oft by Barbarussa upon his Frontiers and to root out the most mischievous Pirates which by his Saviour's goodness had taken such effect that he doubted not soon to obtain a perfect Victory and then he would grant him what should stand with the convenience of his affaires c. so he would not falsifie his faith which he might well suspect if he specially trusted not that such a benefit would alway remain in his heroical mind being assured that that power which restored him his Kingdom could take it from him if his unthankfulness deserved it Muleasses before the Emperour used a full gravity and grace in his Speech but exceeding courteous to the Generall and other Captains riding up and down with them and shewing himself a very good Horseman and of great activity He would also reason with learned men after Averroes of the nature of things the Heavens motion and Starres power he had a Tent appointed him and honourable allowance Vastius courteously brought him when desirous into all places of the Camp to see all things and orders there demanding of him whether that puissant Army brought to his great good he judged sufficient to subdue the enemy Muleasses chiefly wondered at the number and order of the great Ordnance next at the wondrous plenty of things and the Souldiers quietness in buying them Ere long they learned of him many things well serving for their better proceeding which things orderly reported to the Emperour confirmed his former hope of the desired Victory so that carefully forecasting he resolved forthwith to besiege Tunis But whilest he was preparing they daily skirmished with the Numidians once like to come to a Battel for the Moores planting Field-pieces among the Olive Gardens shot continually into the Camp wherefore the Emperour leaving enough to keep his Camp and Trenches went forth with his Horsemen and the rest sending Montegius General of the Spanish Horsmen before who were most but raw Souldiers These skirmished a while with the enemy but seeing themselves hardly charged and Montegius greatly wounded they fled in the Emperour's sight to the men at Arms coming after them The enemy at first would desperately charge then retire to avoid their enemies force and by and by turn again with a fresh charge the light Horsemen fleeing Charls came on couragiously with his men at Arms whereby they were put to flight and their Field-pieces taken Here the Emperour standing formost gave the Signal crying
Conquer them but to free them from German-bondage so to restore that Kingdom entire to young Steven But 3 or 4 dayes after he called out the chief Citizens into a field where condemned men were buried as if to swear them to fidelity whether they coming as to a solemn feast the Tyrant slew them all yet some report they were only such as bare Office when they revolted from the Queen and Infant-King to Ferdinand the rest being exiled to Buda and Belgrade So leaving Balibeius the Governour and Mahometes of Belgrade his Lievtenant for the whole Kingdom he returned to Constantinople All this while Ferdinand had no power worth speaking of to withstand so mighty an enemy While Solyman lay at this siege he sent his Tartarian Horsmen to spoyl the Country round about 3000 in divers places were slain by the Hungarians one of them being taken had half a child of two-years old in his Snap-sack Barbarussa fretted exceedingly that he had all this while layen at Marceilles doing nothing the blame whereof he said would be imputed to him and that Solyman would take it ill to have it reported that he had set out so great a Fleet and so far off to help his Friend and to do nothing also he took on like a Turk that he should now blemish his former credit by laying still all that Summer where his Souldiers grew lazy Wherefore Polinus told the King hereof bringing order to Barbarussa to besiege Nice a sea-City in Provence pawned by a French King to the Duke of Savoy for a great summe of money which Francis had oft offered to repay but could not get it out of his hands He sent also 22 Galleys and 18 ships of his own with 8000 Foot and much Victual 2 dayes after which came Barbarussa also to the Port of Monoc with 150 Galleys whence Polinus wrote to the State of Genua not to fear that Fleet being not to hurt so much as them of Nice if they would yield and for more assurance had divers Genua captives freed out of the Turks Galleys without Ransom Then he friendly exhorted them of Nice to yield to their 〈◊〉 and Lawful Prince rather than to adventure all extremities for that distressed Duke between the Emperour French King spoiled of most of his Dominions c. The Magistrates answered They knew no other Soveraign but Charls their Duke wherefore he should desist further to solicite them c. Wherefore they besieged it in 3 places They had lately new fortified their walls by Simeon Capt. of the Castle and an experienced Knight of the Rhodes his direction who for their more resolute withstanding the Turks took their wives and children and the weaker sort into the Castle thence furnishing the Citizens with all necessaries The City being battered in divers places by sea and land at once the Turks had much beaten a new Bulwark attempting to enter Leo Strozza with a Band of Italians seeking also to enter but they manfully repulsing both caused them to retire about 200 Turks being slain and of Strozza's men 22. Barbarussa battered it afresh so terribly that their walls being opened the Souldiers sore wounded and no hope of timely relief parlyed with the General from the wall to yield the City living under the French King in all respects as they had under the Duke for which he gave them his Faith but fearing the Turks would violate this Composition he entreated Barbarussa to cause his Souldiers to go aboard Wherefore the Janizaries deceived of their hoped prey were about to have slain Polinus and Strozza comming from Barbarussa The taking of the Castle now consisted in assailing the Castle it self and defending the City from salleys and from an enemies raising the siege Barbarussa put the French to choise which to take Who standing in doubt he scorning their slownesse conveniently placed 7 battering-peeces 2 being very great in a trice to their admiration wherewith he quickly beat down the Battlements and Sentinel-houses so that none could appear on the walls the French also bartered the Castle but through long shooting Polinus requested to borrow or buy powder and shot of Barbarussa who fumed exceedingly that they in their own Country should want provision c. not forbearing to taunt them and oft complaining that he was deluded with hope of great matters promised threatning to lay hands on Polinus who had brought him where he must lose his Honour or having spent his Ammunition expose his Fleet to all dangers Wherefore calling a Council He gave out presently to return to Constantinople seeing among those cowardly and unskilfull men he found nothing ready or according to promise yet by entreatance and large promises he was perswaded to continue the siege but presently Letters were intercepted from Vastius to the Captain of the Castle to 〈◊〉 out a while till he who had sent his Light-Horsmen before might come with his men at arms who would in 2 days with slaughter of the Turks put him out of fear Whereupon such a fear came on the besiegers next night being also very rainy and Tempestuous that leaving all and by narrow-paths climbing over the High-Mountain they came down to the Fleet but at day no enemy to be seen they ashamed came again to the siege Ere long when the Castle standing on a Rock was judged hardly to be battered or under-mined they thought good to depart the Turks then taking the spoil of the City set it on fire Barbarussa retiring to Antipolis came to Anchor at the Island Margarita Vastius the Duke with Auria then arriving at Villa Franca In which Haven's entrance the Galley wherein Vastius went was like to be lost 4 other being by Tempest driven upon Rocks and so suddenly beaten in pieces that the Galley-slaves could not strike off their Irons but were drowned Polinus hearing hereof sent to Barbarussa perswading him to hasten thither as to an assured Victory who promised to go yet moved 〈◊〉 letted as was thought by contrary weather But the wind fallen and sea calm and he setting slowly forward coming again to an Anchor the Turks Captains scoffingly said Barbarussa did but reason to deal kindly with Auria who had received the like Friendship at his hands in letting him escape at Hippona who answered then and afterwards only That 〈◊〉 an old Commander and half-blind 〈◊〉 more in the matter than all those green Captains with their sharp sight Ere long he returned into the Haven of Tolon Vastius and the Duke coming to Nice commended Simeon preferring the Turks Fortifications before the Christians Barbarussa with all courtesie entertained sent Salec and Assanes his Kinsman with 25 Galleys who riffled some sea-Towns in Spain taking great prize about the Promontorie of Creum and a Merchant-ship and a Galley in Paiamos-Haven passing to Algiers to winter and at spring to return to Provence Barbarussa that Winter repairing his Fleet had many necessaries from the Genowayes especially from Auria and that under colour of redeeming prisoners for
Zanius was Admiral Noble Singliticus was sent with 1000 Footmen into Cyprus who led also all the Horsemen in the Island Martiningus promising to follow with 2000 more Their strong Cities were new fortified and provided with all necessaries for defence of their State earnestly soiiciting the Christian Princes to give them ayd against the common enemy but Maximilian excused himself by the 8 years League made with the Turk as also Charls the French King and Sigismund of Poland upon the same account yet seeming very sory for the breach betwixt them yet Charls offered to be a Mediator if they pleased betwixt them and Selymus Sebastian also of Portugal made an excuse from the great Plague that had lately raged in his Kingdom also that he was to maintain Sea-Warres against the Turks in the East 〈◊〉 Onely Pope Pius the 5th and Philip of Spain with the Duke of Savoy Duke of Urbin and Duke of Florence and Knights of Malta promised them and performed their ayd Selimus was with the Venetian's short answer and Cubates's contemptuous usage farther enraged they also having in their Letters omitted his glorious Titles wherefore he imprisoned their Embassador and all the Christian Merchants of the West throughout his Empire staying their ships under Arrest setting himself wholly to prepare things needful for the intended Warre Cyprus layeth in the farthest of the Cilician Sea between Syria East Pamphylia West Aegypt South and Cilicia now Caramannia North. It is in length after Strabo 175 miles in breadth 65 in circuit 427. It abounds with what ever is needful for the sustentation of man sending forth great abundance and craving no help again The people generally lived so at ease and pleasure that the Island was dedicated to Venus who was there chiefly worshipped and thereof called Cypria Marcellinus saith that Cyprus is of it self able to build a tall Ship from the Keel to the Top-sail and put it to Sea furnished of all things needful In the heart whereof stands Nicosia sometime its Mother-City and in the East end thereof Famagusta the chief and onely Port of all that most pleasant Island It came first into the hands of the Venetians as hath bin before declared by Catherine Cornelia the Wife of James the King thereof and adopted Daughter of the Senate who her Husband being dead by the perswasion of her Brother George Cornelius all the Island being ready to revolt after the death of her young Sonne a Posthume coming to Venice and with the greatest honour received in the Senate-House before the Tribunal of Duke Barbaricus laid down her Crown and Scepter and as a loving Daughter resigned up her Kingdom to the great honour and profit of her Countrey in one thousand four hundred seventy three then paying to the Sultans of Aegypt such yearly Tribute as James did and afterwards the same to the Turk by Law of Conquest But now this Selimus the 2d made no account of the accustomed Tribute but of the fruitful Island itself who in the beginning of February 1570 sent a great power into Epirus and the Frontiers of Dalmatia to forrage especially about Jadera to withdraw the Venetians from the defence of Cyprus so far off and in April following he sent Piall who was a Hungarian born of mean Parents with 80 Galleys and 300 Galliots to keep the Venetians from sending ayd to Cyprus who coming to Euboea so lay certain dayes as if he would give them battel but understanding that they grievously visited with the Plague and slowly relieved by friends were not like in haste to come out he sailed to have taken the Island Troos from them stronger by the Defendants industry than by nature who though far from Christian Countries could neither for fear or danger be removed from Christian Religion or submit to the Turks Government as most of the Cyclades had done Piall by fair meanes and fowl perswaded the Inhabitants to yield their Town but getting nothing from them but fowl words again he valiantly assaulted it two dayes but seeing how little he prevailed and the Defendants resolution he abandoned the Island sailing towards Cyprus for Mustapha a hater of the Christians was made General who appointed Piall to meet him at the Rhodes where he that came first should tarry for the other to sail together to Cyprus Mustapha having sent a great part of his Army by Land into Pamphylia departed in a royal and wondrous great Galley together with Haly Bassa General of the forces at Sea and the rest of the Fleet from Constantinople May 26 meeting with Piall at the Rhodes and to colour so manifest a wrong according to the Turkish manner a little before his arrival at Cyprus sent Letters to the Venetians that Cyprus together with Aegypt which was conquered by the Turks was become of right a part of the Othoman Empire which they came to challenge leading after them 200000 valiant Souldiers c. And if they should prefer their vain hopes before the wholsom Counsel of leaving the Island without resistance they were to expect all the calamities of War c. he giving them a moneths space to bethink themselves The whole Fleet consisted of 200 Galleys divers Galliots and small Men of Warre with divers Vessels for transporting of Horses whose coming the Islanders from their Watch-Towers first discovered at the West end whence on the right hand passing the promontory of Del legate they landed divers of their men who burning and spoyling some Villages with spoil and prisoners returned to the Fleet which coming to Salinae a place so called from abundance of Salt there made they came to an Anchor in an open Road landing their Army on a plain shoare unresisted which exceedingly encouraged the Turks thinking they should not have so done without a bloudy Fight but the Christians all whose hope was to have 〈◊〉 them from landing either terrified with the greatness of the Fleet or prevented by their celerity to their great hurt omitted so fair an opportunity The Bassa entrenching his Army sent the Fleet to transport his other forces out of Pamphylia into the Island and Scouts to take some prisoners of whom they might learn many things of concernment but the greatest question among themselves was whether they should first set 〈◊〉 Famagusta or Nicosia Famagusta standing low and wholly subject to the then scorching heat the Bassa for fear of Diseases thought it better to begin with Nicosia So put ing all things in order and well viewing the Countrey he set forward it was about 30 miles distant being the chief and richest City of the 〈◊〉 The spreading Army the neerer it came the greater was the 〈◊〉 of the people and the number of prisoners but the Enemies approaching a general fear possessed all men there being in the City no renowned Captain nor any strong Army without to oppose the enemy Dandulus was Governour of the City too weak for so great a burthen being brought up in civil Affaires who had taken up 4000
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
even within the mark of their Artillery which the Persians perceiving hardly began to assail their main body into the midst whereof the Prince entring dispatched every man that came in his way and singling out the Bassa of Careamit who sustained Osman's place smote off his head gave it one of his followers to carry upon the 〈◊〉 of his Lance which brought a great terrour upon the Turks and exceedingly 〈◊〉 the Persians who intermingled themselves more and more amongst them made of them a most confused and general slaughter there dying also the Bassa of Trabszonda and 6 Zanzacks with 20000 Turks more as was commonly reported the Bassa of Caramania being also taken with divers other common Souldiers but night comming on and the Persians come somewhat too nigh to the Turkish Artillery they withdrew themselves back to the King Camp The Fortress of Tauris being fully finished the Souldiers of Greece and Constantinople wearied to see their fellows thus 〈◊〉 and having laid up the prey and booty gotten in Tauris Winter also comming fast on by 〈◊〉 trusty friends about Osman who was in despair of life represented 〈◊〉 him the 〈◊〉 of their return and after many reverend 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 unto him that if he would needs 〈◊〉 dallying out time in those dangerous places where no need was they should be forced to forsake him Osman promised to satisfie their request by departing the next morning So he made Giaffor the Eunuch Bassa of Tripolis a crafty and cruel man Governor of the new-built Fortress whom to encourage to undertake that charge he gave him for 3 whole years the Office and Revenues of the Bassa of Careamit 〈◊〉 slain Honouring him also with the Title of Bassa of the 〈◊〉 so that after his 3 yeares Office of Careamit he was to sit amongst the Soveraign seats of the Bassaes of the Porta The Bassa hereupon dispatching his Lieutenant for Careamit 〈◊〉 a 100 of his own followers setled himself in the said Fort with 12000 Souldiers furnished with all necessaries till the next Spring so the General departed the same morning being the 87th day after his departure from Erzirum came to Sancazan 7 miles from Tauris The Tauris being now ready confusedly to encamp There was heard the neighing of Horses and noise of Drums and Trumpets which when the whole Camp understood they ran disorderly to rescue on that side where those noises were heard but whilst the Turks intentively expected the Enemies comming on that side the Prince with 28000 Horsmen was ready upon them on the other side and with a safe Convoy had taken 18000 Camels and Mules well loaden with Booty and Victuall which he sending away with 6000 Souldiers Himself 〈◊〉 22000 Persians entred into the Turks Army who now on that side also had made a Head against him In a moment the Tents and Pavillions were turned upside-down and replenished with dead Carcasses and bloud and so generall a slaughter made that the Turks themselves marvelled at and do to this day with great admiration recount the Valour of the Persians but they doubting lest the enemy should have entred the Lodgings of the sick Visier now at the last 〈◊〉 He that commanded in his Name ordered the Artillery to be forthwith unbarred and discharged which in that medly overthrew both friends and foes did perhaps most harm to the Turks For the Prince with his followers at the noise thereof speedily retired so that the Turks left behind were more annoyed then the Persians the Turks made shew as if they would gladly have overtaken them but night coming on they feared to proceed any further In this Battel were slain 20000 Turks 〈◊〉 any notable loss of the Persians Osman the General also here at Sancazan died through the violence of an ague a flux of bloud which was kept secret from the whole Army because the Charriots wherein he lay were stil kept close And in his name Cicala Bassa for so he had appointed gave out commands to the Army yet 3 young men who had the charge of Osmans Jewels Treasure fleeing to the Persians with the best therof and the fairest of his Horses disclosed to them the death of the Generall who were thereby encouraged to attempt the utter overthrow of the Turkish remnant whereupon the Prince with 14000 followed the Turks who were removed to a certain River of salt water not far from Sancazan where he pitched a few Tents about 4 or 5 miles distant from the Turks camp the said brook running betwixt the 2 Armies Now the Prince purposed to assail the Turks in the morning while they were loading their Carriages which his design was revealed to the Turks by one of his Spies which they caught wherefore they neither rose so early as their manner was nor loaded their stuff till they were all ready to receive their Enemies yet the Persian considering they should find no other good opportunity to annoy them before next Spring resolved to venture the assault and observing the Enemies Artillery to be on the right side they began to enter on the left but the Turks presently so turned their Artillery against them that it was to their great loss danger yet were they so nimble to shroud themselves under the Enemies Army that being now come very near them they must needs joyn Battel they had purposed as soon as they saw the Turks begin to stir to retire so to draw them on into a filthy and deep Marsh which being then dry was not doubted but onely by those that were well acquainted therewith or born thereabouts which policy Maxut and Dant-chan perceiving gave notice thereof to Cicala Who caused a great compassing-wing to be made and to charge the Persians home which they did so that their fore-front opened with very large corners upon the Prince who by and by perceiving that his purpose was discovered without stay began to retire which could not so readily be done but that 3000 Persians were over-trodden and 〈◊〉 in the mire with very little loss to the Turks This onely Battel of 5 that were fought in those Quarters being least hurtful to the Turks The Prince returned to his Fathers Camp recounting unto him the whole action and the Enemies departure The Turk came to Salmas where Osman's death was published thence they went to Van where surveying their Army they missed about 85000 persons or more at Van they were all dismissed whence Sicala gave notice to Amurath of all that had happened First was published Osman's death at Constantinople with many signes of great sorrow also the bloudy and mortal actions that were performed in that Expedition the whole City seemed much discomforted and in many places were much secret railings on the King many curses of these wars and of those manifold mischiefs after which was dispersed the great fame of the 〈◊〉 at Tauris with all the losse that had happened to the City an Edict published that through all the Cities of the Empire they
his purpose he returned without doing any thing Septemb. 26. Hassan encamping betwixt the Rivers of Kulp and 〈◊〉 by night passed over part of his Army into Turopolis with fire and sword spoiling all that fertile Island the Lord of Bonny labouring in vain to defend the same About the end of this moneth the Bassa of Ziget the Sanzacks of Mohas Koppan and Quinque Ecclesiae and others encamped with a strong Army betwixt Ziget and Rodesto soon after which the Emperour had newes that Kainsia a City of Stiria was hardly besieged and that the Turks in coming thither had taken many Captives whom they had sent to be sold at Constantinople and that their Army were about one hundred and sixty thousand but since the Christian Army increasing also was now grown to sixty thousand Men he hoped well that their Enemies rage would be stayed about which time Ernest appoin ed Generall with the Marquesse sonne to Ferdinand the arch-Duke his Lievtenant came to the Army About the beginning of October the Emperour had sad news of 7000 men slain whom he had sent into Croatia men the conduct of Beane and 2 others to hinder the Turks proceeding encamping between Wyhitz and Carolstat and having Septemb. the 12th discovered from a mountain some Turkish Companies come thither to view the Army of the Christians sent out 50 Horsmen to discover where the Turks Army lay with its attempts who finding no more Turks then those before-seen from the Mountains returned with such Intelligence whereupon the Christians as secure in their Tents kept but negligent Watch. But a hundred thousand Turks suddenly brake into their Trenches where those Footmen for 4 hours maintained a notable fight many being slain on both sides but the Christians beset and oppressed with multitude were slain almost all yet the Captains speedily fled for which their cowardize and negligence they were afterwards beheaded Such as fell alive into the Enemies hands were cut in pieces The Enemy also had the spoil of the Tents wherein besides abundance of other things found 60000 Dollars lately brought from Luitz for the Souldiers pay The Turks in ostentation laded 14 Waggons with the Heads of the slain which they sent to divers of their places thereabouts yet the Christians flew of their Enemies above 12000. The night following the Turks in the dead of the night surprized the Castle of St. George putting to the sword all therein of any Age or Sexe except 150 whom they carried Captive so firing the Castle departed At which time some Turks were seen about Sifeg who led away Captive above 600 Christians and 300 Waggons loaded with all kind of provisions for relief of the Garrisons in Croatia were all intercepted by the Turks and carried away The Emperour hereupon gave notice by writing to the Princes and States of the Empire What incursions the Turks had lately made into Croatia the Frontiers of Hungary and other places near them and that the Beglerbeg of Greece with the Bassaes of Bosna Buda and Temesware without regard of the League had by taking divers strong places extended their bounds above 40 German miles slaying and carrying away the Inhabitants and were grown to that height that except they were represfed they would soon set foot into Germany it self c. which to hinder he required their generall help requesting them at length to open their Coffers and send out their Forces against the common Enemy which request with so great a danger moved not only them but others farther off liberally to contribute thereunto The Turks hearing of these great preparations besides the Christian Army already in Field and that they had made a strong bridge over Dravus which they had fortified also for the safe transporting of their Army forthwith furnished the places they had gotten with strong garrisons and so withdrew into their own Territories and the rather because the plague so raged in Constantinople that there dyed a 1000 a day which had also infected the Turkish Army which the Christians fearing forthwith slew every Turk they took The Turks in the beginning of 1593 began also their wonted incursions into the Christians Frontiers The Garrison of Petrinia a strong Fort lately built by the Turks on the River Kulp for the further invasion of Croatia made daily excursions spoiling and burning the Town and Castle of Beck Vochobinam in the Island Turopolis and after a great slaughter carried away 400 prisoners and in Hungary the Turks Garrisons to supply their wants made divers inroades did exceeding harm of whom 600 passing over the frozen Lake were all drowned therein In another place 3000 of them near Nutiusa dividing themselves in twaine one part shewed themselves in sight of the Townsmen the other laying in Ambush the Townsmen hereupon sallyed out and causing them to retire followed them till they were past the place where the other Turks lay who ran with all speed and wanted not much to surprize the Town for there was scarce a hundred Germans lelf in Garrison who had hardly time to draw up the bridges which done they with the Ordnance forced them to retire About the same time also they of Petrinia suddenly saliying out took the Town of Martenize which they spoiled killing about seven hundred setting it on fire and so returning having lost not past a hundred and fifty men Ere long the said Garrison took another Castle three miles from the River Kulp Whereinto the Christians round about had for fear conveyed all their Wealth with great store of Victuall and slaying six hundred men in the Castle returned with a very rich booty yet with the losse of five hundred Turks slain in that enterprize So also did the other Turkish Garrisons rage in all other parts of Hungary About Sasobia in upper Hungary they carried away about three hundred Captives and in the nether they took the strong Castle of Hedwigg upon the Lake of Balaton which they spoiled and burnt as also the Castle of Isna but attempting the lesser Comara they were valiantly repulsed They fortified also Stock Castle which they lately took as a refuge for their Adventurours all which declared their desire to begin that bloudy Warre which presently ensued and it was the more suspected because Crocowitts the Emperour's Embassadour was shut up close in his House at Constantinople not to speak with any man nor write or send to the Emperour Wherefore he began to raise new Forces the Hungarians and Bohemians also seeing these miseries that 〈◊〉 them and the Enemies strength daily encreasing agreed to maintain some horse foot upon their own charges for repressing these incursions now though the Emperor well knew that these outrages could not be done without Amuraths knowledge and liking as before informed thereof by his Embassadour yet he wrote Letters unto him the effect whereof were to shew himself willing to have the League on his behalf kept and also to make a further proof of Amuraths resolution for peace or war desiring
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
of Pesth by 1000 great shot sent over the River unto them yet for the dispence of their powder and shot they gained not so much as the life of one Souldier nor one stone out of their Walls Shortly after the Budans thought suddenly to have surprized Palotta a small Castle by night but being timely discovered they were forced to retire with the loss of 120 men to whom Horwad Capt. of the Castle by a Peasant sworn to do the errand sent a small pot of Salt and a bottle of Wine willing them to season the Venison they took in the late Hunting and quenching their thirst to chear them up after their late Conquest These Enemies more provoked by this jest discharged a showre of thundering great shot 〈◊〉 small bullets upon the Garrison of Pesth but their Cannons being ill levelled overshot the Town carrying more fear than hurt yea and while they were thus thundering fire by negligence of the Cannoniers fell into a barrel of their powder which taking hold of another and running along 〈◊〉 if it had been by a train overthrew a long piece of the Wall of Buda by whose fall many Souldiers near it were overwhelmed The noise and force was so terrible that the Turks being retired from this Breach the Governour of Pesth resolved to assault the place Whereupon with 1000 Almaines and 300 Hungarians he forthwith in hope marched towards the Breach but by the way they met with a Company of Turks who gave an alarm to those of the upper-Town who manned their walls and with great speed repaired the Breach Now those Turks whom 〈◊〉 met withall were all slain except some few whom 〈◊〉 carried prisoners to Pesth to be by them instructed of the 〈◊〉 affairs About 〈◊〉 time Radol Vayuod of Valachia hearing that the Turks in Garrison at Silistria were gone abroad to seek for Booty and Victnals passed forthwith over the River upon the Ice to surprize the Town whose men for desire of Riches and for fear of the Souldiers return so 〈◊〉 the Town that the Turks dismayed and deeming the Christians through the 〈◊〉 of the enterprize to be more than they were after a small resistance left a way open for them who thrusting into the Town took the 〈◊〉 spoil thereof great and rich and so set it on fire returning before the Turks could gather together to hinder their retreat The Vayuod sent to Basta then in Transilvania against the Turks 13 Turkish Ensigns for his part of the Booty But Collonitz having laid 3 dayes in Ambush without discovery of any Enemy March 6 3 espials fell into his 〈◊〉 whom the Turks had sent forth before who would not discover any thing hurtfull to their friends so that at last the 〈◊〉 moved commanded one of their Heads to be struck off to terrifie the other 2 who dismayed with this Spectacle and well beaten to tell the Truth confessed 〈◊〉 were Spies sent by the Enemy to view the Country and see if the Christians had any Forces there which if not and they reporting it then within 2 dayes after the Convoy was to pass that way to be put into Canisia setting forth from Babotz 2 hours before day and that which more confirmed the matter was that within 2 hours after their taking the Haiducks which lay hidden without the chief Ambuscado discovered a Cornet with 5 Turks Ensignes marching from Canisia to meet 〈◊〉 Convoy Whereupon they acquainted Collonitz therewith who put his Horsmen in good Order to enclose the Turks betwixt the Marsh and Wood who holding on their way the Christian Carabines charged them in the head of their Companies disordering them the Hungarians sell upon their flanks which they opened and the Horsmen on their backs The small resistance these poor enclosed men made deserved not the name of a fight being of 600 not 4 left but they were all slain without killing one of their Enemies Their Horsmen who followed them seeing them surprized shamefully fled but the Carabins with their Horses pursuing amain after them slew a number of them that were worst mounted pursuing the rest even to the gates of Canisia Those of the Town discharging their Ordnance and many Vollies of small shot against the Christians both to stay their pursuit and to give warning to those who were bringing the relief to the Christians that were in the field But during this fight three very well mounted Turks adventured to pass by the Christian Troops and to give those which were bringing the Convoy warning of the overthrow and to return to Babotz which brave attempt Fortune favouring the Turks on the way upon this advertisement retired accordingly Whereupon the Christians made towards Babotz almost sixteen miles off with a resolution to carry the place using such diligence in their march that about nine at night they there arrived and to daunt their Enemies what they might they presently sounded their Trumpets struck up Drumms removed their Artillery rusled with their Arms and kept a stir themselves to make the noise of a great Army but the Turks twice so many in number and within a strong place prepared for fight if they should assail them who oft repeating the name of Jesus advanced and made ready for fight The Turks from the Castle delivered 1000 Cannon-shot upon the Christian Troops their Muâ—quâ—ts still playing from the Curtain of their Walls yet the resolute Footmen passing athwart these flaming showers marched along the Counterscarp of the Ditch toward the gate to have broken it open The Turks the same time were come forth of the Town but at the very instant that they charged the front of the Christian Foot they were so encountred that having lost some men they were glad again to retire into the Town whom the Christians upon the Town-ditch so plyed with small shot upon their Walls and in their Holds as that they durst not shew themselves or look out and if the Christians had had Instruments to have opened the Gates or Walls the Town had 〈◊〉 been won but at last they having bin 4 hours in fight before it doing receiving harm and finding no means to enter were forced to leave it burning in their retreat certain Villages of the Enemies which done they retired to little Comara for the 〈◊〉 began now on every side by heaps to flock together to swallow them up and even pressed upon their retreat But Collonitz being with his Souldiers safely entred into Comara caused the Heads of the principal slain Enemies to be set upon the pikes of the Pallisadoes and on a great Pine tree before the gate whose Branches were first lopt an action learned from the cruelty of the Turks This done they departed from this Castle as 〈◊〉 spent with Famine than travell and weariness for in that short expected design they had taken no provision of Victuals with them their Horses also languished the Country being alike cruell to both The Souldiers had for 3 days eaten nothing but Crabs and Acorns
son who was with some 1000 come to ayd him lay in wait for him and setting upon him slew a number of his men the Bassa himself being shot in the Breast as he was mounting up his Horse with whose dead Body the Turks about to flee were some 〈◊〉 some taken the rest 〈◊〉 escaping the exceeding 〈◊〉 Booty the Souldiers carried to Comara with the Bassa's head struck off with his own Scimitar which 〈◊〉 his Coat Pogramus the Governour sent as a Present to the Emperour This Bassa was the chief plotter and Author of all the late troubles in Hungary having before much confirmed Botscay in his Rebellion in Transilvania for he spake the Hungarians-Language naturally and was therein very Eloquent Now was the very name of the Germans become odious and contemptible to the potent Rebels in Hungary so that Basta offering to put supplies of Germans into Tyrna then in danger that Governour refused them and also to let them have any thing for mony saying They had Citizens enough to defend the same and as they needed not the Germans help so they would have nothing to do with them yet when Redeius came thither with his Army they presently received him in and were about to slay all the Germans being well nigh a third part of the Inhabitants but some of the wiser considering that they having long dwelt there were by Marriages in 〈◊〉 with the Hungarians they with them otherwise perswaded them lest they might seem cruell against their own blood and so it being referred to Redeius he by the Council of an Eminent Turk ordered the Germans lives to be spared but 〈◊〉 to use the Hungarian About May 24. the Turks Tartars and Rebels burnt 14 Villages about the Lake of Neusidler as many more towards Neustat putting most of the women children to the sword impaling divers upon stakes carrying the men away captive the cattel as a prey so leaving the Country as they went almost desolate and about the end of this month the Rebels surprized 3 Towns and a little while after Ginsium all which they rifled and spoiled as they did also Hogengoa and Niders-Prungia which they rifled and burnt by such terrour forcing all far and near to yield to them Only Alteoli and Cremnicz standing fast to the Emperour did the Rebels much harm About the beginning of June some Turks and Haiducks came again to Presburg whose Governour issuing out with 3 Troops of Walloons and some Companies of Harquebusiers made them retire but the Walloons riding about fell upon them when they thought themselves past danger slaying 500 and driving the rest into Danubius so that but 14 escaped 3 being Turks and one Fugitive Citizen whom with great spoil they brought into the City At which time the Citizens of Vesprivium rose in Rebellion also causing the Captain of the Castle his Lievt and the Keys to be carried to Botscay's Lievtenant with which revolt the Turks greatly pleased sent to and wished the Sultan to hast the comming of his Army for the passages were now open to his further Conquest and advising him more and more to encourage Botsoay And now the Rebels breaking also into Stiria 〈◊〉 and spoiled all as they went so that Serinus Lo. Nadasty and Budian seeing themselves and all they had in danger to be spoiled without remedy submitted to Botscay as did many other Nobles there also The Rebels thence making Head into Austria did like harm Thus was the State of Hungary and Austria at this time most miserable as appeared by the Letters of a Citizen of Vienna who was himself an Eye-witnesse of most part thereof declaring among other calamities by fire c. that the Rebels who lately forraged Austria carried away upon Horses little Boyes and Children who by reason of their tender years could not go whose pittifull lamentation might move the very stones to be sent into Turky yea many of them were by the way found dashed against the ground the Turks themselves being amazed at the Rebels cruel behaviour and whereas they pretended Religion their most cruel tormenting of a Minister did shew what lovers they were thereof complaining also that their own mutinous Souldiers excluded them of 〈◊〉 from all Victuals and in cruelty and hostility almost exceeded the very Enemies The Haiducks had most straitly besieged Odenburg assaulting it in 5 places at once upon whom Trautmanstorff caused some of his Horsmen to sally forth skirmishing with them 3 hours and then the Haiducks beginning to prevail himself with other Horse some Foot Citizens and 3 Field-pieces suddenly breaking forth put them to flight slew many and taking 12 Ensignes with many ptisoners but the Haiducks in revenge shortly after returning burnt the Suburbs of Odenburg and spoiled the Villages yet Basta approaching them but with a small power they rose and passing over Dravus carried away 2000 cattel many Captives The Turks having bin often in hand with Botscay to deliver Cassovia wholly into their hands the better to obtain it sent unto him three Waggons loaded with mony and other rich Commodities for a Present and to supply his wants by a Convoy of 400 Haiducks and some Turks which Haiducks secretly informed the Governour of Tokay of their comming that way and that if he would receive them they would with some small help deliver that rich Booty into his hands and continue his faithfull Souldiers who forthwith sending 400 of his Carrison to meet them they joyning and slaying every one of the Turks were with the Booty received into Tokay and courteously entertained Whence they ere long looking abroad met with some Companies of Botscay's men and slaying near about 500 of them took 7 Waggons of provision 30 Horses and much rich spoil But the Rebels encreasing more and more prevailed the Towns in upper Hungary especially daily revolting unto them as also 〈◊〉 did whence the Rebels sent part of their Ordnance with Relinger a German Governour of the Town and some other Germans there taken to Redeius Then besieging Newhuse with 30000 Haiducks and Turks who as they had oft-times sharply assaulted it so the Souldiers who protested to hold out even to the last man most notably defended it Wherefore Redeius having layen some months before it promised his men the whole spoil of the Town yet were the Turks oft kept back from assault lest if they should by force take it they would by force hold it to themselves as most commodious for conquering the rest of upper Hungary but Redeius with his Haiducks July 25. most furiously assaulted it advancing in great hope 10 Ensignes to the top of the Rampiers yet were they forced to retire leaving above 700 dead in the Trenches The Bassa of Agria came afterward to this siege with 3000 Horse and many Janizaries so that through Mines Shot and often Assaults scarce 200 sound men were left in the Garrison besides Victuals powder began to grow scarce yet armed with resolution they still valiantly held