with Diadem you to invest The Tyrant dead you Chosen are above All others as the man Accepted best Electus I and Marcia doe signifie That you above the rest we meane to dignifie 11. To whom againe good Pertinax reply'd I am to be deluded in this sort Too old forbeare and doe not thus deride Or think that with a Coward you make sport Then said Electus since you will not ' bide By that whereof we make so true report Or deem we gladly crave not your Command Peruse this Booke you know Commodus Hand 12. Good Friends they were to Pertinax of old He plaine perceives the businesse how it goes Thus much disclos'd againe he waxed bold And yeelds himself to be at their dispose Yet that the Souldiers might not be too Cold They thought it best with them to make a close And that from Power they might the matter take Laetus the Generall did it for his sake 13. The night grew on it being almost spent Next day a feast in honour of New Yeare For trusty Messengers in hast they sent Commodus death that they might make appeare How Pertinax now Prince would ease their bands When once this was divulg'd they clap their hands 14. Excesse of Joy was spread all or'e the City In every corner and in every street The people run and sing a pleasant Ditty Glad tydings tell to every one they meet The men renown'd for wealth and eke for worth That were in danger now come peeping forth 15. Such men of Tyrants stand in greatest doubt To Temples then and Altars doe they Trudge Some Tyrant Cried Fencer some other flout Nor any one hereat was known to grudg Such as before durst not appeare in unity Dare now proclaime assured of impunity 16. But some for feare doe to the Army post Lest Souldiers rude should not this Prince admit For under Tyrants they doe ravin most But this perhaps will not their spoile remit Yet to perswade they meane to undertake And Laetus to the Army gently spake 17. Our Prince while're is dead of Apoplex Doe what we could to keep him safe and quiet The drunken fits his braines did so much vex His night disports and gormandizing diet All which together did him so perplex They Death procur'd by vaine excesse and Riot In stead of whom wee and the Romans bring A man approv'd most fit to be your King 18. To you which Vet'rans are his worth is known He also was a guide unto the City Not only Prince but Parent to each one Fortune hath sent us as it were in pity Whose Government if you doe now promote Will glad your fellowes that are far remote 19. Such as the Marches of the Empire guard His Noble Acts and how he was inclin'd Remember yet and how by him they far'd The Barb'rous people now will change their mind Nor shall wee need with mony them to win His only Name will awe and keep them in 20. When Laetus once this pithy Speech had made The Souldiers 'gan to pause and to demurr Yet were the Common People all so glad They soone Appeas'd the Tumult and the sturr 'T was Holiday unarm'd the Souldiers came So all agreed the Emp'rour to proclaime 21. They lesse in number were and intermixt To give consent they therefore thought it best No further diff'rence then was them betwixt Nor did they seem as if they had been prest But all with Lawrels made great Joy and solace Conducting him to the Imperiall Palace 22. Now he good man himself was somewhat pensive Not that he wanted courage or was faint But yet he tooke this Act as reprehensive And fear'd it might his former prudence â—aint Then that it might in him be lesse offensive He thought it best the Senate to acquaint How after such a sudden change of Tyranny The Crown was fal'n into a meaner Family 23. No Symbole yet of State he would admit With fire before according to the kind Till that he knew if they approved it Or else he was obedient to their mind Whom when they saw they all with one accord Augustus Call and eke their Soveraigne Lord. 24. This Title was of Envy as he thought And studies to avoid it all he might Full well I know quoth he this Honour ought To be preferr'd where there is greater Right Amongst you many are of higher Race To whom compar'd I count my selfe but base 25. My yeares have also worne me out of Date Set me aside and chuse some Noble Peere Loe there a man ordained is by Fate How right it is that he be placed here Glabro is he must ease me of this moane Whom streight he handed to the Regall Throne 26. He was descended of Aeneas Race And twice he had the Consular Degree Yet back againe he did resigne the Place O Pertinax this Seate belongs to thee When now no longer he could shun their sute He made this Speech concluding the dispute 27. My Lords your Fervent Zeal and good Affection In this debate most manifest Appeares For that you please of me to make Election Before so many Great and Noble Peeres Your Faith and worth that herein is so Large Serves as a prop the Burden to discharge 28. These Favours yet so rare and so sublime Intimidates even at the very sight For Benefits so great at such a time Will not so easie be for to requite Then how I may deserve what you conferr Is task too great and doth me much deterr 29. The Lasting Glory of a Soveraigne Prince Consists not meerely in a Chaire of State But in those Royall Acts which may convince Such as Maligne or doe repine thereat The Evils past which they before endur'd Must by his prudent Care be salv'd and Cur'd 30. Our grifes remaine good turns are oft forgot No sooner done but shortly fade and perish Who is 't that injuries remembers not But him that seekes the Cure they seldome Cherish Though he secure their Goods with all his might No thanks say they it is our proper Right 31. Best Change that happens for the Publike good Is little worth to private men undone And such as liv'd profuse when Tyrants stood If once reduc'd a desp'rate Course they run Accusing all of sparing Innovation Though they reform with prudent Moderation 32. Yet since excesse of gifts as heretofore Can not be done except we doe oppresse And put the people in the like uproare As erst they were when want did them distresse Nor that our selves doe covet any more Then what is just and all of them confesse You will I hope with Counsell me assist That each may have his owne not what he list 33. This Speech convai'd such Meeknesse and such Love With cheerfull hearts they doe him all revere Then brought him to the Temple of great Jove And other gods of whom they stand in feare When he had done the wonted Sacrifice He to the Palace went in Princely wise 34. When it was voic'd how Graciously he spoke And
He doubts not but the rare intelligence of what he writes will be very acceptable for in two hundred years before the first Emperour Augustus till Marcus Aurelius he begins with there hath not been so many various changes and events as of civill and forraign Warr Pestilence Famine Earthquakes lives of Princes and Tyrants so strange and uncouth which former Ages could not paralell Rome had in sixty yeers more Emperours then was proportionable for the time some young and dissolute some of riper years more fit to govern and manage the disparity of their years and conditions were Accompâ—nied with diversity of manners and Actions the particulars exactly observed wee come now to specifie THE NAMES OF the Roman Caesars and Emperours whose Acts and Lives are Recorded by Herodian An. Dom. 163 MARCUS AURELIUS ANTONIUS L. VERUS The two first consorts in the Roman Empire An. Dom. 182 COMMODUS An. Dom. 195 PERTINAX An. Dom. 195 JULIAN An. Dom. 196 NIGER in Asia SEVERUS in Italy ALBINUS in Britany all at once ANTONIUS GETA Brothers and Colleagues An. Dom. 219 MACRINUS and DIADUMENIANUS Caesar his Son An. Dom. 220 ANTONINUS or ratheâ— Pseud-Antoninus An. Dom. 224 ALEXANDER MAXIMINUS QUARTINUS An. Dom. 2â—7 GORDIAN the Father GORDIAN his Son An. Dom. 239 MAXIMUS ALBINUS Colleagues An. Dom. 241 GORDIAN Nephew to the elder GORDIAN CANTO I. The ARGUMENT Marcus his Reigne and Life is here related The breeding of Prince Commodus his Son And how his Daughters he bestow'd and stated His Clemency the Nobles all had won Yet doth he doubt on Commodus his weale And on his death-bed doth the same reveale 1. I Have not Homer's Wit or Virgil's Skill To gild the Acts that I do now recite Nor can with Ariosto frame my Quill To rock the Reader in such deep delight Yet take it here as well as I am able This is a Truth much of the rest a Fable 2. The Emperour Marcus many Daughters had Yet of his Sons there were but only twaine Verissimus did dye a little Lad Commodus the elder he sought to traine In Vertue Learning and the liberall Arts Sending for Tutors from all forraigne parts 3. When as his Daughters were to Marriage bent Best men that were his Senators among For Sons in Law to match with them he sent Regarding not what wealth did them belong So that they were with Excellence endowed Goods of the mind were Chiefe by him Allowed 4. With Princely vertues he was richly clad Antiquities both excellent and rare Or greater knowledge no where could be had For he with Greeke or Roman might compare As witnesse well his Writings Wise and Sage Which extant are untill this present Age. 5. A Prince he was so sweet and debonaire Of Temper meet to all men that he saw His hand he gave and Language passing faire Charging his Guard to keep no one in awe An Emperour he was both wise and stout Just were the Words and Edicts he set out 6. So grave he was and continent of life That Famous men for Learning great did flourish To imitate their Princes without strife Men do delight when they such vertues nourish Now whatsoe're he did in Peace or War In North or East or Barb'rous Countries far 7. Already that in writing is Committed By men of Learning and of worthy fame Yet those Occurrents must not be omitted Which I observed as I went and came For he deceas'd I office had in state Then what I know my taske is to relate 8. Marcus now weakned was with Toyle and care Worne out of Date with old decrepid Age A grievous sicknesse fell unto his share When in Panonia he did last engage But when he saw recovery was past Prince Commodus did make him sore Agast 9. For being young and in the heate of youth Perchance puff'd up with High Imperial power Might soone be drawn to set aside the Truth By Delators in some unlucky houre To take his swing and rove abroad at Random Good Arts and Exercise for to Abandon 10. Such is intemperance when we do begin To Riot once in pastime meate or driâ—ke Then shake we off the yoke of Discipline On sensuall Blandishments we only thinke Good Marcus this had often known before Which makes him now his Sons Estate deplore 11. He mighty was in wisdome and profound Calling to mind the Princes that were young Such as for vertue were no whit renown'd Or ranged were the middle sort among Denise of Syracuse astray did wander The Successors eke of great Alexander 12. Sicilian Epicure did give reward To such as Novelties could best invent Alexanders Captaines had no regard But Honour lost and all good Government Infamous was the Life of Ptolomy Surpassing bounds of Civill Modesty 13. Antigonus would Bacchus personate With Ivy wreath and greene boughs on a Speare Instead of Macedonian Coronate He did in place of Kingly Scepter beare Examples such as these did Marcus strike Fearing his Son might hap to do the like 14. That dreadfull * Nero came within his mind Vile Butcher he so to dissect his mother A savage Act unfitting Humane kind Domitian was much-what such another The shapes these Monsters wore did oft appeare As he revolv'd his mind 'twixt hope and feare 15. The Germane Nation likewise he did doubt Not being all intire at his devotion Were sometimes Newter often in and out As they were pleas'd or as they lik'd the Motion These Barb'rous people do themselves withdraw Save when his noble presence did them Awe 16. He therefore doubts they will despise his Son His youth he thinks cannot this Nation quell Though often times they have by me been won Yet now I feare they will againe Rebell Such is their guise when they occasion see They 'l scorne his youth though they were rul'd by me 17. Thus in these Moods good Marcus is perplext He cals his trusty Friends and doth implore 'em I meane his Lords and Kinsmen that were next And sets the Prince young Commodus before 'em Lord with what Horror his good heart is vext For feare the young man should not keep decorum Then raising up himselfe upon his Couch He makes a speech that nearly did them touch 18. No marvell now if you bemoane my Case For men are Led by Nature to lament Their Kinsmen but things Look with such a Face Being upon their uttermost extent So dolefull are they to consideration They now excite our due Commiseration 19. 'Twixt you and I yet is more speciall Band You know full well how I have lov'd you dearely Love may like Love in right againe demand This is the Cause that I have call'd you neere me That I may Judge in this most dangerous season If I preferr'd you by the rule of reason 20. If so I gave to you deserved honour And did advance you with the best occasion She is a Lady when you looke upon her That will admit no Fraudulent Evasion I challenge then that you to me be
recount what brav'ry was there How plenty great from all parts there did come And wisht him thither for to make repaire How Ister banks were fruitlesse barren cold And subject to much raine they then unfold 14. Your grace doth drinke the waters muddy frozen While your inferiours warm baths doe injoy Sweet air of Italy by them is chosen When you live here with care and great annoy With sweet allectives and such pleasures nam'd These parasites this young Prince had inflam'd 15. He therefore then his Councell cal'd together And told them he had great desire to see His native place now having wind and weather To speak the reason then full loath was he But yet as if it had not been for solace He said he fear'd the rich Imperiall Palace 16. Might seized be into some great Lords hands And this conceit the rather did him feare Because use might be made of trained bands Which could not be if once he came so neare This made his Councellors for feare to shake And grave Pompeianus was first that spake 17. He eldest was and married had his sister No man so fit of all the Princes kin That was with him upon the banks of Ister To shew their case and thus he did begin No marvaile if my deare and Soveraigne Lord Dislike this place which is to be abhorr'd 18. So all of us possest with equall care Have like desire to see our native home But yet our businesse bids us to beware Wee from this barb'rous people doe not Roame Till that we finish'd have this dreadfull war From them my Liege we ought not be so far 19. This doth import that we should yet refraine Domestick good may after be injoy'd Time lost will not so soone be had againe At Rome I fear we shall with ease be cloy'd Then good my Lord thinke where your Grace resides Is Rome with all her Ornaments besides 20. But if abruptly we breake off this warr Wee honour lose and danger doe incurr Let our advise be to your grace a barr Beseeching you that here you will demurr For if from these wee doe remove so farr And be so hot to run upon the spurr Wee animate these thieves and rebels arch To think that we for feare doe thus dismarch 21. Now if your majesty doe still proceed Extending conquest in this Northern part Untill the Empire reach in word and deed The Ocean sea to make these Rebels smart What Triumph then will fall unto your meed The City greets you with a gladsome heart When you with chain'd captived Kings notorious And barb'rous Princes shall returne victorious 22. Thus ancient Roman Heroes did attaine And purchase to themselves such high renown To feare domestick broyles it is in vaine Prime Senators are here with you in gown And th' Armies force to undertake the paine With treasure eke of the Imperiall Crown Your fathers noble acts above the rest Confirmed hath to you Each loyall brest 23. From person grave this was disswasion strong It did for present time abate the edge None could doe more the Senators among So well he plac'd the words he did alledge The Prince not having wherewith to reply Dismist the Lords as if he would comply 24. But soone anon his fawning Courtiers came Perswading him no longer now to stay With sly deceit they play their after-game Still pressing him with them to ride away No further then with counsell he advis'd His wits were craz'd and senses quite disguis'd 25. Then instant he sent letters unto Rome And call'd for such as were with him to goe Yet order gave that Armed Troops should come To guard the banks of Ister ' gainst the foe Which charge when as the souldiers understood Much of the Barbarous people they subdu'd 26. And many other with rewards they wonn So well this greedy people loved cash Therefore the feate was so much sooner done What cared they to come within the lash So they their wonted roving course may run To live by forage spoyle and such like trash This is the cause that makes them not to feare To sell their truce be market cheap or deare 27. Of this the Princes sycophants were sure And having there of coyne a mighty masse That all things might be left the more secure They brought their naughty matter so to passe That whatsoe're this people did demand Was sent to them by Commodus command 28. As soone as in the Army was proclaim'd That all of them might to their home retire To quit the barb'rous enemies they aim'd The City sweets to tast was their desire Nor to this motion were they slack or surly For in the camp they hast with hurly burly 29. And when these newes were spread and known in Rome The people all were ravished with joy To heare young Commodus to them ' would come Their hearts were glad and free from all annoy No marvell for this hope they had the rather That he was son unto so good a father 30. His present journey then he tooke with speed And welcome was in every town and place More hast he made the lesse he tooke good heed He posting rid as he would run a race Yet when the people understood the cause They entertain'd him with their full applause 31. But when he drew neer to the City Rome There went to meet him all the Roman Peers And Commons eke to bid him welcome home For very joy the elder sort shed teares Some flowers had and Lawrells other some To gratulate this Royall Prince of theirs They love him deare for father that was dead And that he was amongst them born and bred CANTO III. The ARGUMENT Young Commod's Birth and person wee describe He gladly is received into Rome The false Perennus of a naughty Tribe And Lucill also had a rightfull doome What feast they doe for Iupiter provide And how the Roman Priests themselves doe guide 1. HOw wild is youth when once it gets the head A lively pattern here we may behold You see this Prince now that his father's dead To take his swing is more then wisely bold Forsaking counsell of the grave and hoary As will appeare when you observe the story 2. Full three descents he nobly was descended Extracted from the Right Imperiall Line His birth by fathers side is well commended By mothers eke who named was Faustine From Adrian Trajan and good Anthony This gallant Prince deriv'd his pedigree 3. Nor was he only Noble for descent Or so remarked for his youthfull prime But God withall such lovely feature lent With constitution good and looke sublime Majestick too with sparkling eyes and faire All which was grac'd with yellow curled haire 4. For whensoe're he walked in the Sunn His locks would glister like to flaming fire And many did suppose the same was done With powdred Gold or else with Golden wire Some said it was Divinitie on earth His head this glitt'ring lustre had from 's birth 5. Besides his
cheeks began with silken down To blossome forth like Roses in the spring The Romans did this brave young Emp'rour crown With all the hearty love that they could bring Acclaiming from their steeples and their towers Strowing his way with garlands with flowers 6. Thus having made his entry in the City He first went to the Temple of great Iove His heart was yet inclining unto pitty He had respect unto the gods above Praetorian Bands that were both stout and witty And Senate eke he thanked for their love Then after all this rare delight and solace Himselfe repos'd in the Imperiall Palace 7. Some few yeers after he gave due regard To fathers friends in matters most of weight But yet ere long they from the same were barr'd Perennus an Italian did them sleight He made him Captaine of Praetorian Bands All matters then went through Perennus hands 8. This Emp'rour young in pleasures he did prompt And suff'red him most sensually to raign In all affaires he tooke the chiefe account As being for the Prince too mickle paine He scraped still and never was content But studied more his Incoms to augment 9. By Calumny he daily did invent Old Marcus friends to bring into dispute With witnesse false he also did indent By wrong surmise the Prince was often mute All this was done to further his intent That he the sooner might obtain his sute For by their deaths the goods to him did fall Thus secretly he did this Prince inthrall 10. The thought of Father and of Counsell grave Did for a season temper his respect But fortune hard did so his wits deprave That suddenly he did us all neglect The cause 〈◊〉 made this young Prince so to feare us His sister first did wed with Lucius Verus 11. Whom Marcus tooke in government colleague And to oblige in strongest bond of love His daughter gave to make the firmer League Both worth and prudence did this kindnesse move And after this her husband was deceased Her state and dignity was not decreased 12. For to the grave Pomp'anus by her fire She was againe bestow'd to her content They also leave from Commodus require Who did confirm this match with full consent Permitting her to use her State and Honour Who like an Empresse had attendance on her 13. On Theatre her chaire of State erected And also fire according to the fashion Was borne before to make her more respected As well at home as of each other Nation But Commodus when married had Crispine She taking place Lucilla did repine 14. This honour new shee thought did her disgrace Yet durst not tell her purposed designe To seize the Empire but forbor◠a space This deed shall not be knowne to husband mine She knew right well her Lord the Prince did love Which was the cause she never did him move 15. Quadratus was the man must be imploy'd With him of lightnesse she was much suspected She told him how her pomp was now destroy'd And wisht her friend to see the same corrected So he perswaded by this wicked elfe Had neer undone the Senate and himselfe 16. The manner thus ' mongst others that conspire Quintianus a desp'rate youth and bold He did inveigle unto his desire Presuming that he would be nothing cold To kill the Prince with dagger or with knife For which he promis'd large to save his life 17. Soone after this he stood in corner blind As to the Amphythe'ter came Commode And when he pass'd according to his mind He gave a stab proclaiming it aloud How that the senate this to him had sent And once againe to stab was his intent 18. But instant he was seized by the guard And guerdon had though seeming to relent As 't was to him a most condigne reward That on such wicked message would be sent Thus hap'ly was the Emp'rours safety wrought By his discovery that so ill was taught 19. This plotting was the prime and chiefest ground Which brought so many Nobles to their fall It in his mind did print so deep a wound For enemies he now suspected all Nor could forget the speech the youth did make When he assayed his life away to take 20. Perennus laying hold on this occasion Did counsell give the Gallants out to root And Nobles eke there must be no evasion He their estates confiscate did to boot Great wealth he got by this his lewd perswasion Himselfe as judge not sitting at the foot All that conspir'd with Commodus owne sister Though lightly but suspected had a glister 21. Then such as Commodus had cause to feare Perennus with his skil did thus remove Though most of them did hold the Emp'rour dear And some affected with Paternall love Now he had got him in his owne tuition He need preferre he thinks no more petition 22. The Empire he accounteth as his owne His sonns must be preferr'd at any rate Praetorian Bands he will not let alone But largesse gives to fortifie his state And when the Prince had fetcht his latest groan A straw they care not for the peoples hate But how this treason strangely was detected And Prince yet safe is now to you directed 23. A sacred Pageant doe the Romans use To grace great Jupiter Capitoline To celebrate the people not refuse But doe repaire and think it very fine The Emp'rours custome to be present there As chiefe with Priests that doe attend each yeare 24. Anon the Prince on lofty Throne is set To veiw the actors for their feats renown'd The Theatre full spectators all are met The Cornets play and Trumpets shrill doe sound Each one is decent plac'd in his degree Attending for to heare and eke to see 25. Before that ought was either said or acted Halfe naked one starts out amidst the Stage You might have thought how it was one distracted But that his gesture shew'd him to be sage With staff in hand and scrip upon his shoulder In this attire no doubt he was the bolder 26. Then standing still he beckned with his hand And silence crav'd that Commodus might heare No time quoth he upon these shewes to stand You rather ought the present danger feare Perennus sword is hanging o're your head Which soon you must avoid or else be dead 27. This man hath raised up a mighty Band Of men with mony to possesse your roome He purposes for to invade your Land Illyrian Army likewise hither come This plotted is by him and by his sonn Which instantly prevent or be undone 28. Thus said the fellow whether thereto mov'd To get a name or by instinct divine He was obscure and therefore him behov'd To win reward that he might sup and dine Howe're it made Prince Commodus afraid It matters not what others thought or said 29. But woe to him that in this shape he turn'd Perennus bids he shall be apprehended And as seditious frantick to be burn'd Though what he said perhaps could not be mended Thus suffered
he for being over-bold Untimely truth is better kept then told 30. Howbeit some that lov'd the Emp'rours weale And to Perennus bore deserved spleen Did well and wisely in this matter deale As knowing how corrupt the man had been And how in th' Prince his favour he did steale By practise vile as ever yet was seen They so devise the Prince did soone abhorr it Perennus and his children smarted for it 31. To make the matter full there souldiers came Unknown unto Perennus or his sonn Brought stamped coyne with Image and their Name That Commodus might see what they had done Perennus little thought of so much blame Off went his head as fast as it might run By souldiers thus the Traytors were discarded Who for their service richly were rewarded 32. Then for Illyria posts went to his sonn Deliv'ring Letters in the Emp'rours name Such speed they make he knew not what was done Full little dreaming of his Fathers shame The Posts informe him why they came so fast Both Prince and Father wils him to make hast 33. To come to Rome was for his high promotion The reason why they brought not fathers letter Enough he thought the Princes Royall motion And then his owne exceeding much the better Vnknown to him his father had disaster He thinkes all true and rides to Rome the faster 34. What though the plot and first designe had mist His fathers might shall make up all at Rome But this was a conceipt of had I wist For to the Prince he is no sooner come But by his mandate he is forthwith slain This was the life and end of traytors twaine 35. Then two Praetorian praefects made the Prince To delegate to one it was not best For so the one the other would convince If he to much did feather his own nest But while he did about this businesse hammer Another Treason broke out in this manner CANTO II. The ARGUMENT Maternus rebels his plot detected Tho mother of the gods her holy day And story with river strange infected To make men geld their genitors away A plague and famine great is now at Rome Cleander next into the Scaeane doth come 1. O Fond ambition how didst thou transport The mind of those wee late had on our stage Unhappy they that left so bad report To such as liv'd in their ensuing age I further might enlarge but yet this Text Wee set aside to see what followes next 2. A souldier one that named was Maternus A Rebell stout and insolent bravado He is the next man now that doth concern us To him resorted many a renegado Unto his motion they themselves do yeeld Committing spoyle in City Towne and Field 3. This booty got doth numbers more invite Who promis'd are to share and have reward From far and neare they come both day and night That now he seemes to have a mighty guard Not like a pack of theeves but armed men Who Cities take and break ope every denn 4. They pris'ners doe let loose and malefactors Who soldiers turn for pillage and for prey They range abroad and are become great Actors To Gaul and Spaine they take their ready way Thus sack and burn doth he and his adherents While Commodus doth send to his Vicegerents 5. With cowardise he chargeth them as base Commanding them an Army straight to levy These free booters from thence away to chase Which when they heard they thought it would be heavy For them to stay upon this hollow ground So slink away by rotten bogs unsound 6. In Italy they yet make rendezvouz Maternus there began to looke full big In sterner manner then he wont did use Devising with his mates to find a jigg That he thereby might make himselfe a King Urging successe his former acts did bring 7. So gallant he that now he would attempt To hazard life and all upon a chance Then live in vile dishonour and contempt He was resolv'd to leade them such a dance As might become a noble heart and bold This tale to all the rest he queintly told 8. But well he knew he had not force at hand With Commodus to fight it out in battell He therefore meant to try Praetorian Band To see if he could catch them with a rattle Then to discern how they approv'd or not Will now appeare when you perceive his plot 9. The Romans make a Feast at every spring In honour to the mother of the gods Their precious stuff the Citizens doe bring With Parcimony they are all at odds The Prince himselfe at this time doth not scorn With Jewels choice her Image to adorne 10. Then liberty to revell and to maske All men at pleasure may themselves disguise That now it will not be an easie taske To know the dolt from rich men or from wise Maternus thought this time fit for his Treason And how to Act he shew'd his fellowes reason 11. Which was himselfe and complices to arme At all points like unto the Princes guard And so the halberts passe not doubting harme Or care by whom they shall be seen or heard For being held as part of th' Emp'rours traine They might him kill and so returne againe 12. The City he approach'd with this intent And tooke along with him a Troop select Though some were villanes other some relent And to the Emp'rour doe this Thief detect Then he with fellows had deserved hire Some hang'd by th'neck Maternus burnt with fire 13. The Prince then having sacrific'd with thanks And to the goddesse made his supplication Her holiday was kept with all the pranks That doe belong to such a fond devotion For he himselfe did foot it on his shanks Which made the people make another motion Though some perhaps doe reckon this a toy A second day they kept for him with Joy 14. Why then at Rome this goddesse did esteem And worship both apparent and in creeks Their owne records must testifie I deem Because it is not known amongst the Greeks But how to them this matter did befall Attentive be then I begin my tale 15. They say by Jove her Image was let fall Who made it or of what it is unknown No humane worke they creed it is at all But that it was from heaven sent or thrown To Pessinus which is a Phrygian Field Though such a fall hath heard of been but seeld 16. Some others at a battle make report Which by the Phrygian Ilus there was fought For likely his it might be in such sort For Lydian Tantalus he set at naught The quarrell thus about a way they plead Or for the stealing of young Ganimed 17. But when they had long fought on even score And how on both sides many men were slain That name it did assume and not before This slaughter which was made upon the plaine And some doe tell a tale of Gaâ—imed How he poore youth on this place was found dead 18. For so they say that when his brother strove To
rescue him from lovers fond embrace In pieces he was pul'd with Ardent love And so left dead upon this very place To salve this matter some say mighty Iove From both did take him by indulgent grace And hereupon he Honour had divine Bearing the Cup when Iove carouseth Wine 19. The Phrygian orgies in this Pessinus Of old were celebrate with lasting Fame And on the banks of the River Gilus Whence gelded priests of goddesse had their name Who drinks thereof shall goe a gelded elfe Come there who list I mean to save my selfe 20. Now when the Roman state began to flourish If goddesse Pessinus they could obtain Apollo told their Empire she would cherish To overtop the rest with might and main To Pgrygia then did they dispatch Embassage Who gently entertain'd the Roman message 21. Being extracted from Aeneas line There were of kin by right Descent of blood The Image then they sent to them in fine To blame were they if it had been withstood To Tiberi mouth at length this Ship did come Which was the only part then long'd to Rome 22. All suddenly the vessell stuck so fast As if with-held by some supernall power In vaine they hal'd and pul'd till at the last A Vestall Virgin came in lucky houre Who was accus'd for losing her virginity Wherefore she fervent prai'd to the divinity 23. That if she were not guilty of the crime The gods would please to take some pity on her And send her strength at this most needfull time To cleare the vessell for to save her Honour Then she besought the people not to grudg If goddesse Pessinantia were her Judg. 24. Whom they admit her girdle then untide The people heard what Orisons she us'd The goddesse would command the Ship to slide If she were free of that she was accus'd When to the Ship her girdle she had bound She pul'd it to the shore both safe and sound 25. The Romans now the goddesse much admire With whom you are acquainted in this story And eke the Virgin chast as they desire Now she is cleare I hope you are not sory This tale is long whereof I have no more Some it may please that heard it not before 26. And now to Commodus we make repa're Who had good cause to double his Life-guard For since Maternus Treason did him scare He them commanded to keep strickter ward To Suburb-house he went or Country farme Leaving the Court for feare of further harme 27. Both Rome and Italy were much infested With pestilence which did them sore torment And strangers there that for their Traffick rested Great cause they had their fortunes to lament For men and beasts destroi'd by some ill influence Did make the City smart through so much confluence 28. The Prince by his Physitians was perswaded That to Laurentum he should make repaire For so the plague might better be evaded There Laurell was with coole and temperate aire A Seate that stands in Register for Fame Of Laurell did Laurentum take the name 29. There fragant sents and pleasant shade of Baies Which would availe against the fierce infection The Citizens were also shew'd some waies How to prepare a praevalent confection Their eares wherewith and nostrils to anoint Such Odours sweet the Doctors did appoint 30. They reason thus if senses praepossesse No fulsome aire so soon therein can enter Nor shall they be inforc'd to such distresse But they abroad to exercise may venter Yet did this plague outragious make them die That men and beasts on heapes were seen to lye 31. A grievous dearth was also in the City Procur'd by one that once was sold a slave Cleander Phrygian greater was the pity That he had meanes to make himself so brave By cunning sleight so well he sung his ditty He had from Prince what he could wish or crave From Page to more degrees so well he far'd At length he made him Captaine of his guard 32. Rank of successe he was so puft with pride For Empire now he meant to turn and wind Great masse of treasure and of Corne beside Monopolies he got of every kind When Citizens the greatest want did ' bide He sought to win them all unto his mind With Donatives he would the souldiers gaine And commons should have plenty for their paine 33. A Gimnasse also and a statley Bath He did erect the people for to catch But yet such grudg to him the vulgar hath That they his craft and proud designe will watch Their liberties by him was brought in thrall They therefore now detest him great and small 34. In publike The'ter first they him disgrace Yet are not so content to vent their spleen But run with open mouth unto the place Whereas they thought their Prince was to bee seen And Justice they doe cry for more and more Untill the Subburbs all were in uproar 35. This while to wantonnesse the Prince was bent In inner private Roomes did not the tumult mind For that Cleander look'd how to prevent Who having plac'd the horsemen so behind They overthrew and wounded whom they list The City foot unarm'd could not resist 36. Whereon they to the City fled amaine Followed by Cornets of Cleanders horse Great numbers of the common people slaine And trampled under foot without remorse The Lanciers pursued to the City gate Killing outright such was the woefull state 37. The Citizens at home soone understood The slaughter made of neighbour was and friend From off house topps they throw both stones and mudd Tyles and firebrands they from above doe send The commons now that better understand Dart from aloft not fighting hand to hand 38. Their doores were shut themselves were out of Reach They killed some and many put to flight Others they wound and better manners teach Their heads rung noon though it was almost night Some were thrown down some from their horses leaps And tumbled on the stones that lay on heaps 39. The Bands of Foot that in the City sesse Did likewise come the Citizens to aid They flock together all make up a messe Which front the Troopers terribly afraid Yet none durst to the Emp'rour make addresse To tell him what was either done or said Till that Fadilla Commodus his sister Tooke heart of grace and told him of this stirr 40. To her they could not well deny accesse With haire dishev'lld and mourning weeds shee run And plainly told how they were in distresse Without some present help they were undone This Lady sister faire and seemely maid Fell at his feet and thus to him she said 41. Your Majesty with pleasures here is fill'd You little know our danger or your own Wee your flesh and blood like are to be kill'd Part of your force and Cities overthrown Such outrage as Barbarians would not offer Your servants acted have and more doe profer 42. He whom to greatest Honour you preferr'd Is now become your deep and deadly foe Cleander commons hath and
Commons had receiv'd what he had writ All men were pleas'd remembring well the yoke That on their necks so heavy erst did sit The Souldiers Spoile he also â—ought to choake By making Edicts for the purpose fit Thus did he plant good order and Civility With Spirit meeke and Garb of affability 35. Although their Prince he govern'd as a Father Were he at home or else in judgment Sate Good Marcus steps did imitate the rather ' Cause he reproved quarrell and debate All men affect this rule without severity Reduc'd to welcome Peace with great security 36. His Princely Vertues gained had such Fame The Nations and Confederates round about Did all agree to deifie his Name The Barb'rous People whom he oft did rout Doe now come in to fortifie the same Though Late Revolters Rebels fierce and stout Embassadors declare from ev'â—y part The Romans had promoted true desart 37. Now of this Change the Commons were full glad Unto this civill Rule to be recal'd But yet the guard of Souldiers were as mad To see their Rape and insolence forestall'd Which they resent and are no long time Idle But doe resolve not to endure the bridle 38. Yet for a while they doe but grudg and grumble Two months there was for all men to Appeale Then Fortune blind did topsy turvy tumble What he design'd for good and Common weale And that the Commons might no more be scanted He first decreed the wast Lands should be planted 39. Yea though what was the Princes owne demeane To Husbandmen he gave it to manure With promise likewise during all his Reign From ten yeares Tax their Farms should be secure The Emp'rours goods he also did disdeign To stamp his own name he would not endure Nor take unto himself at any rate But said they did belong unto the State 40. Since Tyrants Death all Tolls and Impost ceast At River Banks Highwayes and City Ports An Optimacy now their harm releast Informers false that daringly resorts He strict Commands they forthwith shall be banish'd And for their former faults severely punish'd 41. Both Rich and poore were safe and free from strife A fellow then a Prince he seemed rather His Son not at the Court Led private Life To Schooles of learning often went the Father And Publike exercise did eke frequent In Pomp or State he seldome came or went 42. His Rule so just inflam'd the Souldiers rude Their insolence and Rapine now decreast O Savage minds they in a Frantick moode His Death complotted at a dreadfull Feast Then in their fury to the Court they pranc'd In Warlike March with Swords and pikes Advanc'd 43. The Courtiers had no care themselves to Arme Within the verge each left his sev'rall place For being frighted with this sharp Alarm They eftsoones fell before the Emp'rours Face And praied that he would save himself by slight The People they were sure would aid his Right 44. Although he knew their Counsell well Advis'd Yet did not think it was a fit Decorum His former Glory should be so disguis'd To be afraid and run away before'um Then unamaz'd a Princely stand he made And reason'd thus their malice to disswade 45. The life you seeke to you is little gaine Or losse to me Arrived at this Age All Humane things we ought to count as vaine Yet Honour doe I weare as chiefest Badge You are by Oath my Person safe to guard Whom if you kill small will be your reward 46. My Conscience tels me I have wrong'd you never And if at Commod's death you doe repine No man that breaths is born to live for ever Yet well you know it was no fault of mine My Innocence pleads for me altogether Of Least suspect in me there is no signe Though he be dead if you forbeare this hate You shall have Largesse fit for your estate 47. This Speech concluded diverse did retreate Such Awe they had and Reverence of the Prince Yet others kill'd him in a furious heate Worse deed was never done before or since But now the people all was in a sweat And lest they should of madnesse them convince To ' th Camp they get Immured in their Wals This end Renowned Pertinax befals 48. Great Cries were made for him and Lamentations In every Coast and throughout every City Now fresh in mind they beare their old Vexations Their Father dead who is that will them Pity Full well they know they must have new Taxations Thus Frantick like they sing a wofull ditty The Nobles and the Rich to shun their Harmes Doe all retire unto their Country Farms CANTO VII The ARGUMENT Praetorians put the Empire unto sale And Julian buyeâ— it with the Commons Curse Niger is prais'd who tels a subtle Tale Playes and Revels of Idlenesse the Nurse He makes a Speech and Emp'rour is elected Yet too secure of Error is detected 1. THough life we Lose yet must wee not give oâ—'e Our study how the Common-weale to save Example Late we shew'd you heretofore Whose Vertues Live though he be laid in grave This is the Hope we have in doing well Good Fame we get which after Ages tell 2. When all was husht the Souldiers from their Wals Proclaime aloud the Empire to be sold And all the People round about them Cals To know the man that will depart with Gold Avouching that he need not feare to scorce For him they would invest with Armed Force 3. Of all the Nobles that were left behind None would appear this offer they did scorn Yet Julian he was of another mind He thought with Honour to Exalt his horne And in his Tipsy Cups when he was Jolly His Wife and Daughters doe promote his Folly 4. Then up he gets and hies him from his Pallat With Parasites that could his humour tell When Wine was got into his drunken Sallat He aptest was for gaine to buy and sell Aloud he cals and to the Souldiers told His Chests were full of Silver and of Gold 5. Another Copes-mate came Sulpitian hight That proffer'd ready Mony at their Call But him refus'd the lot on Julian light Whom yet they keep in pledg upon the Wall Till they receiv'd the sum which he did offer Then let him down accepting of his profâ—er 6. Commodus Lawes he promis'd to restore And Statutes eke which Senators pull'd downe With Liberty such as they had before The Souldiers also should have many a Crowne More then he promis'd or they could demand For why he had it ready at Command 7. The Souldiers straight allured with this Hope Proclaim him Prince by Commodus Sirname With Ensigns spread who rather â—arn'd a Rope And Pictures gay he to the City came When first in Court according to the Guise He finish'd had the wonted Sacrifice 8. Yet stronger then accustom'd was his Guard For that by bribes the Empire he did seize Or else perhaps the people had him scar'd His shamelesse dealing nothing did them please And lest they should affront him
same night He saw him mounted on a Gallant Steed Adorn'd with Princely Trappers as was meet Which Carri'd him along the Sacred Street 7. But when he should into the Forum enter Where Democratick people make their meeting The Prince to ground the Beast threw at adventure Which seemed to the rest a homely greeting Yet to himselfe he came with faire Decorum On whom he mounts and gallops through the Forum 8. Severus then was lifted up between The People there and him they all adore A Brazen Image standeth to be seen This to Record which never was before By this his Dreame he Cogitates alone He was Divinely called to the Throne 9. His Captus straight about him he convenes Resolv'd to try how they his Rule affected And plainely told by what unworthy meanes The Sacred Empire is so much neglected Then to his purpose all the Souldiers leanes Train'd Bands of Treason foully is detected Thus of this matter they debate no further But will revenge good Pertinax his murther 10. Full well he wist that Pertinax his Name In their Illyrian Army shined Glorious For there in Marcus time he gained Fame And or'e the German Nation was Victorious A man of Prudence and of Moderation None might compare in all the Roman Nation 11. A Soul of sweet and â—genious disposition Th' Assinats he knew they songht to have And he with them will make due Inquisition If they consent 't is all that he will crave With this his faire and winning Proposition This easie People like to Sheep he drave And linckt them all in Chaine of perfect Unity Whereon he grounds his further Opportunity 12. They in this Region are a race of men Of mighty Limb and Body somewhat full Tall Souldiers too if once their Foe they ken But yet of slender Wits and temper dull Such subtle Drifts they meet but now and then When therefore this did penetrate the Skull They him believe then doe themselves submit And in his Stile the Soveraigne Title writ 13. The dull Pannonians thus he set in order With Promise large to ev'ry Northern President Great Hopes he gave the Regions that did border Of Right pertaining to the Roman Regiment A deep Dissembler and a subtle Plotter A crafty Fox and cunning as an Otter 14. To falsifie his Oath to serve his turne To Cogg and feigne he queintly knew his part Against his Letters that they might not spurne His pen oft told what was not in his heart Their burdens he Avouch'd should not be heavy Whereby great store of Souldiers he did Leavy 15. And Pertinax Sirname he did assume For that he knew was worthy of Esteem Both currant in Illyria and at Rome â—o like an humble Saint he then did seeme Yet you shall see he was no tardy Drone But first this Speech from his Exalted Throne 16. The Zealous Love to gods that you revere By whom you swore your Emp'rours true Devotion In this contest doth singular appe're For me I never thought of such promotion But still Obey'd my Soveraignes Just Commands And will with you correct Praetorian Bands 17. What you require I purpose to pursue The Sacred Empire now doth suffer much Which you and I will rectifie anew Yet Commod's slips we will but lightly touch His youthfull strain deserves Commiseration For Fathers sake let 's use some mitigation 18. His fault you know ought rather be imputed To Sycophants which did his youth mislead But Pertinax of Noble Fame reputed By wicked Hands so Direfully struck dead And Julian eke that in his Seate did Mount These dismall deeds we call unto Account 19. Of Commons he and Souldiers is detested They now perceive his purpose to delude By Craft and Bribes he got himselfe invested Thus shamefully did in the Throne intrude Yet if defend this wretched Act they durst Your skill in Arms will put them to the worst 20. You often skirmish with the Rude Barbarians With toyle and Travell scorning heate and Cold Train'd Bands are Pamp'red like unto Maidmarians In Martiall feates who ever knew them bold You Hunting use they live like Lazy Carrions Your Shout and Shock they dare not once behold You water drinke and wade through Rivers frozen They stall fedd are and wanton ease have chosen 21. If any doe the Syrian Force misdoubt Withall they may their Cowardise Collect They from the Country never marched out Or had to Rome Intention or Respect These Silken Syrians are no Souldiers Martiall But are to disports and pastimes o're Partiall 22. Though they of Antioch doe on Niger dote Since none yet like an Emp'rour doth appear The Townes and Cities that are more remote Of you and me doe stand in double feare They think you will advance to pay their Cote And me they know since I did Govern there Our fury they will shun and their owne harmes They must subscribe to us in feates of Arms. 23. Then let us instant march and seize on Rome The Princely Palace we shall soone obtaine For so to us an easie Rise will come And due revenge on Julian we shall gaine Divine Presages praedicts us good Event If your Victorious Arms crosse their Intent 24. This Speech he ended thus and nothing lacks The Souldiers leap and shout with Acclamation Augustus they him call and Pertinax With cheerfull Votes they make this Proclamation Then lightly Arm'd their geere they trusse in Packs Without delay or more procrastination He gives them Largesse fit for such a journey Himselfe in person needeth no Atturney 25. Scarce suffring once his weary Troopes to rest He march'd with Courage bold and nimble Speed They post away as some doe to a Feast Yet Cates have none but what they barely need He fellow-like no Pomp would have at all Which made the Souldiers ready at his Call 26. Then through the great Pannonia was his Race Where eftsoons seen a Prince preventing Fame And up th' Italian Hils he climbes apace Before they knowledg had from whence he came Such quick approach the People heard of never Which puts the Cities in a shaking fever 27. They Arms had left and tooke them to manure Their Country Farms living a quiet Life The former Armies made them so secure With Barb'rous folke they have no fear of strife Forsooth say they our troubles have an end Our Roman Power to all parts doth extend 28. Indeed when first Augustus seiz'd the Monarchy So quiet and Pacifick was his Rule The people fell to lasie kind of Lethargy Their wits grew dull as either Horse or Mule Because that none should interrupt the Hierarchy His Souldiers guard ev'n to the utmost Thule Some parts had Ditches Rivers deep and Fountaines Some Deserts had some Rocks and craggy Mountaines 29. No marvaile then if they were sore agast To see such mighty Troopes of armed men Not knowing where the Frontiers they had brast To march so fiercely thus within their ken Severus yet they heard it was at last
Temples full of Gold Which soone would wast and Fortune leave to smile If they observe not what to them he told His men of Arms and all that he had wrought If they dissent he said would come to nought 33. Sometimes he smiles sometimes he reprehends But yet his Sons persever worse and worse Their Sycophants for base unworthy ends In Quarrells Lusts and Idlenesse them nurse Though some had hire according to their merit Severus yet had Anguish great of Spirit 34. Which to Augment there newes from Brittane came By Letters sent to him from his Viceroy How that the Barb'rous People play their game And Pillage Planters to their sore Annoy This to prevent he wils him send more Forces Or come himselfe with armed men and Horses 35. Though Newes were sharp Severus was not sad Inclining still to Honour and to Action But of this opportunity was glad To weane his Sons from Riot and from Faction For Rome delights and sports with them in ure He meant a Souldiers life they should endure 36. For journey then now he is old and Gouty He straight prepares though carried in a Litter The younger sort were not more quick or doughty Though some might think him for a pallat fitter Yet with his Sons the businesse so contriv'd He ere they look't on Brittish shore Arriv'd 37. The Brittanes started doe their Agents send But found delay and went without dispatch Their former faults they gladly would amend No will they have to meet with such a Match But he from them a Sirname meanes to carry And to that end he and his Souldiers tarry 38. It seems this soyle was full of Boggy Pens The Souldiers Bridges make for want of ground And thence they think to chase them from their Dens Or else by fighting give them many a wound These Brittaines were a People rude and Naked And eat raw flesh as oft as rost or baked 39. About their necks they Rings of Iron weare As Easterne Barb'rous People doe of Gold Their pounc'd and painted bodies doe appeare More furious when their Foes doe them behold For Caske or Curaee they nor care or feare Yet are with Pike and Target fierce and bold From Pooles and Fens the Foggy Vapours fly Which alwayes makes a dark and cloudy Sky 40. Severus now had all things he desir'd To further his and Barb'rous folke annoy At York to guide he Geta then requir'd He was a stripling and his yongest boy Yet Councell grave he did to him assigne And tooke with him his eldest Antonine 41. When they had past the Bounds and River Banks They skirmish light and often got the better But when the Woods and Bogs their men disranks The Barb'rous People were not much their Debter Their safe Retreits serv'd them the Warr to spin The Romans Lose as oft as they did win 42. Severus being sick with Age and faint Left Antonine to prosecute the Warr But he fond youth his Honour foul did taint And through neglect doth all the matter marr His Brother he despis'd and sick of Father To get the Soveraigne Rule aspired rather 43. Physitians he Accus'd of much Delay His Fathers Death to heare he would be faine And dealt with them to make him soon away The place he said doth sole to me pertaine This brave old man as Stories tell in Briefe Expired not so much with Age as griefe 44. A Famous man and Victor over more In Civill broyles and Countryes far Abroad Then any Emp'rour that was him before He Left his Sons of Treasure many a Load With Souldiers eke most skilfull in their Trade But Antonine now Chiefe great Havock made 45. He first began to bath his hands in Blood Physitians and his foster Father eke That had his frenzy formerly withstood Of Goods and Lives they soone were both to seeke That he might Raigne alone without another He brib'd the Souldiers to depose his Brother 46. But herein they deserved great Applause That hands upon this Bargaine would not strike For in the Fathers will there was a Clause That both of them should Honour have alike Then Peace he made when Words were light as Corke His Mother and his Brother were at York 47. To them he goes and being altogether The Empresse and the Lords for State Affaires Endevoured Discontent should hap to neither Of these two Brothers now the Fathers Heires No remedy I see quoth Antonine But to Accord thus crost in my Designe 48. Then both the Brothers equall now in Power For Rome prepare and carry Fathers bones Where they arrived in a lucky hower To place in Sacred Sepulchre of Stones As Victors first they Marched thorow Gall Severus life and death you see withall The End of the Third Book CANTO XIII The ARGUMENT Two Emp'rours next doe enter Rome in state Severus deified and Funerall shew Parting the Empire through a deadly hate Th' Empresse forbids Antonine Geta slew He Cruell is both prodigall and Savadge And of the German Souldiers learns to Ravadge 1. VVHat was thy fall O Lucifer but pride Was 't not enough that thou thy selfe transgrest But both the Sire and Brothers to divide And Murther too a Crime by thee profest Thus puft with pride to kill about a Crowne Much better lost or spurned up and downe 2. The Princes and their Mother goe to Rome With jarrs and fresh debate what ere she said To eat together once they will not come Of Poyson'd Cups were both alike afraid The Palace once at Rome is wide and vast There to divide they make the greater Hast 3. They thither come then as the Custome was With Laurels People welcome them and Peeres The Emp'rours formost of them all doe passe In Purple Robes and seem'd to shed some Teares Next after them according to their Turne The Consuls march bearing Severus Urne 4. In Pompous State they doe this Urn in-shrine With Marcus deare amongst the Emp'rours best And in the Temple did their Rites divine Then to the Palace Princes went to rest Yet severall Guards and severall Lodgings â—â—ose And all the doores betwixt securely close 5. They shew'd themselves but to content the People And then their meeting at the Common Gate They both were stiffe as any Wall or steeple Which now the Romans greatly wonder at Their Semblance yet each other did but threat Till Fathers Name was deifi'd compleat 6. In that the Brothers were no whit at odds This solemne Rite inviting them to pity The Romans call it placing with the gods Which first begins with mourning o're the City The Corps in Sumptuous manner once interr'd The Stately shew no Longer is deferr'd 7. An Ivory Bed o're spread with Cloth of Gold In Palace Porch Erected is on high Which mournefully spectators doe behold A waxen Image of the Prince doth lie On one side sit the Noble Lords in black And o're against faire Ladies doe not lack 8. But they in white according to the guise Thus for a weeke they
Whom they revere with Joyfull Acclamations And wish'd the Souldiers to agâ—ize their due So Roman Senate make their Proclamations If you expect to have our free Accords You must receive them for your Soveraigne Lords 4. This said they gave them Market on the Wals Which they embrace with glad and willing h'arts Of Wine and Bread and sustenance not small Aquileia stored was from severall parts Apparell shooes of nothing they were scant This Souldiers wan regarding their own want 5. They saw there was no hope to bide the Siege But Famine rather likely to befall Well satisfied they were with their new Liege And paâ—ly friendly neer the City Wall Thus Peace and Warr appeared both at once The Gates yet shut they lodg in Camp and sconce 6. Thus at Aquileia while these matters past Some Posts to Rome were sent with Tyrants head With Laurels in their hands the People hast Shouting for Joy that Maximine is dead And by the way the Emp'rours new elect Were raising Force the outrage to correct 7. Some aid of Ancient Love the Germans sent Thus they a mighty Host did then prepare But both their heads the Messengers present And tell them how this Labour they may spare Take part with Romans now the Army me'nt And Honour those whom Senate did declare At this good newes they make the Altars smoak For vict'ry got not striking once a stroak 8. When Maximus had done his Sacrifice Two Knights on Lances both the headâ— doe beare Once come to Rome the gladsome People rise And Jubile Proclaime for that whole yeare None can expresse their 〈◊〉 of Joy For Tyrants death that did their 〈◊〉 Annoy 9. They cluster thick into the publike Cirque Whole Hecatombs Albinus sacrific'd The Magistrates and Nobles went to Kirke They now appeare that were before disguis'd For feare to lose their beads they cease to moan The axe that threatned theirs had lost its own 10. Thus Posts and Heralds sent with Laurell Brance To every Coast and Province round about With Holiday at Rome they leap and Dance Then marcheth Maximus the marshes out Ravenia from the Aquileians he greets And past the place where seven Channels meets 11. The Aquileians ope their gates discharg'd of Bands Prime Agents come from all the Cities round With Vestures white and Laurels in their hands Their Guardian gods with massie Gold were crown'd These Images were bought with goods and Lands And now amongst the Donaries were found Thus Maximus they doe congratulate And green leaves on him heap a sign of state 12. The Souldiers also met like men of Peace But their submit was through Accommodation Their spoile and plunder being like to cease He being dead that serv'd their inclination When Maximus had done his Sacrifice He to the Army spake as was the guise 13. To joyn with Romans now the sweet you find A Joyfull peace instead of Warr and hate Besides you save the Oath that did you bind The mist'ry Sacred of the Roman State Long may you keep these benefits in mind And not be mov'd to stirr up new debate But give to them and us all due content Whom they have chose for worth and high Descent 14. To Empire none hath Patrimoniall right But you and wee are joynt Administrators The City is indeed an Empresse bright Both Peers and Commons ought to weigh these matters If you your selves as Liege men doe contain We shall to you return our Care againe 15. You flourish shall and have a happy Peace The Provinces about you will have truce All hazard of your lives and goods shall cease By your example all of these conduce Wee being two that undergoe the load Shall quiet all Domestick and abroad 16. Wee shall Assistance give to one another Nor think revenge against you will be sought Both Rome and we will love you as a brother Perdy you did but what Commanders taught Let all that 's past betwixt us be forgotten And live in League when Tyrant's dead and rotten 17. Thus said he promis'd them a large amends Then at Aquilea makes a short repose From thence he went to Rome to meet his Friend Part of his Army to their station goes The Pikemen of his Guard attend him must And German aids in whom he most did trust 18. He Nobly Govern'd when he had that place Now when he made his entry into Rome Albinus and young Caesar came apace Both Peers and Commons bid him welcome home Some give him gifts with due Congratulations Him all receive with joyfull Acclamations 19. Thus for a while they Govern'd well and right And all the Common People were content But Souldiers cankred hearts were full of spight At their Applaâ—â—e that were of high Descent The Germans in their Office were not Idle Kept as they thought their Insolence to bridle 20. Their outrages confronted thus they feare Lest some such Traine Severus erst invented Might quite degrade them and their Bands Cashiere Or the Germans for that place indented Wherefore at Solemne Feasts Capitoline Where sports shewes were grac'd with cates wine 21. They to the Palace run in Bedlam rage And will the good old Emperours surprise Though they in all the rest were grave and sage 'Bout Soveraign Rule to strive they were not wise Albinus double Consull least despaires And Maximus for skill in State-Affaires 22. For Birth and Worth 't was hard to find a best And each to yeeld to other were as loth But yet their strife in this unwise contest Was ruine and destruction to them both Maximus heard Praetorians were the Jury And sends for German Guards to stop their Fury 23. Although they both in danger were of Murther And that these Troops the Traytors might have match'd Albinus wils they shall proceed no further Lest he alone should be the man dispatch'd For well he knew they Maximus Adore ' Cause he their Province rul'd so well before 24. Praetorians therefore he would not represse So uncontrouled is the hand of Fate But said the Germans would himselfe suppresse And Maximus invest in Soveraign State While this Impaâ—iance kept them at a bay The Souldiers come and doore keepers give way 25. The good old men they hale out of the Court And raging mad doe Barb'rously intreat 'em They teare their cloths in most unseemly sort Then pull their beards and by the way doe beate 'em If of these Crimes us any one convinces These are say they but Senatorian Princes 26. To th' Camp they hurried them through mid'st of City Intending not to kill them in the Palace But torture them alive without all pity For greater paine and more to shew their malice But fearing now the Guards would pay their coats Who came amaine they cut the Emp'rours throats 27. Whom baffled thus with all kind of despite Their Corps into the open way they threw Then held up Gordian Caesar in their sight And said to him the Princely
gratefull To faile therein I guesse you deeme it hatefull 21. You see your Pupill entring Aprill Age My Son that now must wade in broken Seas You Pilots are I know both grave and sage I pray you see he take not too much ease Lest he misguide and steere a naughty Course So ship wrack will invade with open force 22. So many Fathers therefore be to him By Counsell good and your discreet instruction No worldly Treasure can be such a lim Him to support preventing sad destruction The Subjects Love is Princes surest guard When worst are downe and best men are preferr'd 23. Best way to Reigne well and to live secure Is not by Cruelty to purchase feare Let mildnesse win and Clemency endure For then best Servants love their Soveraign deare So Jealousie and Flatt'ry's set apart Severity can gaine no gentle Heart 24. But when they 're led by loving inclinations They never will withstand his just desire Yet if opprest by his unruly passions Such misdemeanour sets them all on fire Then what doth he deserve what gold what gain That may do what he list yet will refraine 25. Wherefore if you by prudent Admonitions Shall plant in him a care for to do well And oft inculcate with your repetitions To mind him of this Tale that I do tell A worthy Prince he will be of Conditions And you your selves for this shall bear the bell Immortall so my memory you make If you agree this friendly course to take 26. No sooner did good Marcus end his speech But swooning ripe he backward fell in bed Which made all present there full loudly shreech Distracted-like supposing he was dead One day he lived then was of paine releas'd Giving this kind farewell he so deceas'd 27. Leaving behind a redolent perfume A seemly patterne for the future Age No after Monarch can hold fairer Roome For wisdome high and eke for Learning sage Better to none may be Applied this Doome Valiant in War in Peace as free from Rage So soone as known that his deare life did faile Both Commons and the Army weepe and waile 28. Yea in the Roman Empire all throughout This Message was receiv'd with weeping teares He was deplor'd both neare and far about At his decease encreased was their feares A temp'rate Prince he was without all doubt Such ought to be that wieldy Scepter Steeres Some call'd him Guide some Emperour some Father Then him to lose their own lives they had rather 29. Nor any was deceiv'd or did outrun His noble Praise and worthy Commendation But now his Funerall Obsequies were done It seemes it was their guise and Countrey fashion The Counsell should present th' old Emp'rours Son To satisfie the Armie's Expectation And Largesse money on them to bestow To presse as 't were the service that they owe. 30. Then order was that Heralds should proclaime By Counsell grave and also from the Prince That they the Common Benefit did aime Of negligence none should them once convince And that the Souldiers altogether met Might heare and see that there should be no let 31. When Commodus had done his Sacrifice In midst of Campe ascending up his Throne Attended by his Kin and Councell wise For Fathers losse making most grievous moane Yet that in him there might be no neglect Began his Speech and said to this effect CANTO II. The ARGUMENT Marcus now dead young Commodus succeeds Unto the Army he a Speech doth make His Courtiers shew their black and evill deeds Which makes the Grave Pompeianus to quake Stately Triumphs young Commod ' posts to Rome Whom deare they Love recording Marcus Tombe 1. O fickle Fate that never steady bides Thou wheel'st about to weave the web of woe What haste thou mak'st to wound us in our sides The Noble Marcus now is laid full Low How we lament and have done ever since We set aside to tell what said the Prince 2. That you and I have Cause to mourne alike I make no doubt for both have equall Losse Since that my Sire the hand of death did strike It is to both of us a heavy Crosse You know full well he Father was to all Then both alike we ought to moane his fall 3. He call'd me fellow rather than a Son Esteeming that to be a Souldiers Note By Nature one the rest by Valour won How oft he did into your Armes promote My Tutelage that you might be my guard I hope therefore you will his Love reward 4. The elder may repute me foster child The younger term'd my Schoolfellowes in armes How oft he hath us taught with counsells mild Whereby we might avoyd ensuing harmes He brought us up in vertues exercise The better to resist when dangers rise 5. Now after him hath fortune made me Prince Not factiously or yet by usurpation For I in Court was bred and born long since You cannot deem me stranger to your Nation When as I came I not in cradle rested But eftsoon was in Princely purple vested 6. To Heaven now my father is translated ' Mongst gods residing as we are resolved And that on me the Rule of right is stated All humane care and worldly things devolved I hope you will not like me as a Dative But truly love me as your Emp'rour Native 7. What great effects this true love may produce Will be apparent by your good successe You will not give these barb'rous people truce Till you have bravely conquer'd more and lesse To th' Ocean you this Empire shall extend And win Immortall glory at the end 8. You 'l crowne the mem'ry of our common father Who as we ought believe heares what we say Most happy then are we our selves the rather That he our words and deeds beholds this day The noble Acts you did before this season Were guided by his prudent care and reason 9. What under me now Prince you doe atchieve Peculiar Trophee will be to your name If you proceed cause none I have to grieve Wee purchase shall such everlasting fame As will innoble this my tender age And crown your valour with a loyall badge 10. If at the first we these Barbarians curbe They will not then despise our infant Raigne Nor dare they once our Royall will disturbe Both you and I shall eased be of paine For when they see their owne harms cost them deare They afterwards of us will stand in feare 11. Having thus said the souldiers he assur'd With money then to Palace did returne A short time he his fathers friends endur'd ' Gainst their directions was not seen to spurne They gave him counsell tending unto wealth Permitting recreation for his health 12. But diverse of his Court within a while Themselves into his favour sought to wind And by ill meanes this hopefull Prince beguile With pleasures vaine they did corrupt his mind Placing their whole delight on belly cheare And brutish lusts as eftsoone will appeare 13. The sweet delicies that was us'd in Rome They doe