Prince not much in danger to the Turk being seperated from him by the Euxine-Sea should be so ready at the Turks call First their descent from one beginning by often marriages confirmed Secondly their likeness of manners and conditions Thirdly the Turkish Empire for want of Heirs-male is assured and as it were entailed to the Tartar-Cham Fourthly and chiefly for the yearly Pension and great Pay which he a bare Prince receiveth from the Turk his rude and needy people being ready to follow him in hope of spoil But his excuse accepted of Hassan made great preparation for his good success gave Achmat great hope and was proclaimed Lievt Generall of all the Sultans Forces against the Christians every man affording a thousand wishes for his health and welfare chiefly the Mahometan Priests assured him of their help so he would do his utmost against the Christians for the Turks account him the best and most zealous man which can do them most harm So Hassan set forward with his Army towards Hungary The Emperour now sought by all means how to resist these great preparations and designs dispatching his Brother Maximilian to the Pope with express charge in his name to yield him all submission to move him to relieve his wofull and distressed affairs who arriving at Venice was honourably entertained by the State thence travelling towards Rome with a great Retinue he was met by a great number of Nobles and their followers sent from the Pope and so brought into the Vatican Palace the oftner and easier to have access to the Pope then sick of the 〈◊〉 Next day comming into his presence after usuall reverence done he all the Cardinals being present first put him in mind of the manifest danger which hung over the Christians in general from the Turk chiefly over Italy so nigh unto him who had a great gap opened to enter by Canisia the Key of Stiria then he requested him in the Emperour's behalf to stretch forth his helping-Hand against this his mortal Enemy c. hoping he should find the like assistance in this his second need that he had before received the precious Balm of his devout Charity being of greater Virtue than to serve but for one time c. Which he besought him to apply upon the present Wound since without his help he was more like to perish than to live The Pope answered His former actions spake enough for him in this so that he need not use further words who albeit these evils had so far prevailed in Hungary had for his part still done what he might for redeeming thereof and now by the advise of his Council present had appointed 150000 Crowns toward those Warrs maintenance this year hoping to do more afterwards against the Turks Whom God he said suffered to prevail upon the Christians not for any goodness in them but to chastise the wickedness of the Christians themselves The 150000 Crowns was by a decree of the Pope and Cardinall levied and payed of the Tenths of the Clergy throughout all Italy So Maximilian magnificently entertained by the Pope rewarded with 4000 Crowns returned unto the Emperour whom the Turks were not behind in augmenting their Forces to invade him and now the Tartars comming in great number and denied passage by the Polonians entered into Valashia which they all over rifled and spoiled at pleasure such people as could escape fleeing into Towns leaving their goods to their merciless rage Radol the Vayuod fled to Constat to Basta where considering his present danger and still to expect the like as often as the Tartars were thus to come into Hungary he took a new Oath of Allegiance to the Emperour to die and live in his service who before had proudly rejected the acknowledgement of his duty and remedy of his harms upon which submission Basta took him and his Country into his protection In the mean time 2 Traitours were brought to Claudianople who very craftily surprizing a strong Castle of a great Lady a Widdow and sacking the same the Haiducks surprized them by the way and as too weak for them cut most of them in pieces and took the rest the Traitors being most cruelly put to death to terrifie others The Haiducks having no Houses Fields or Trade but Arms and now enraged for want of their pay if their right-right-Hands spoiled the Turks their left robbed the Christians taking from the Turks of Agria much Cattel and rifling divers Christian-Villages in one day and meeting with a 100 or 120 Waggons going with Victuals toward Alba-Julia conducted by the Zecclers 〈◊〉 their drivers and carried away the Waggons And the Turks of Temeswar having bin towards Lippa meeting with them were charged by them for their Booty but being twice as many in number as the Haiducks they slew most of them and took the rest prisoners In the mean time the Christians gave some ear to the Turks old practice of soliciting a peace to discover in policy the Commodities and Inconveniencies of the peace by them but in shew offered though with many protestations for in the very time of the parly they fortified their strong Holds with men and Victualls especially Buda whereinto by a Convoy they put in of all sorts of provision enough for a whole year Besides it was known by some Turkish prisoners that all was but feigned to put the Christians in security for the Bassa of Buda had no Commission to conclude any peace in the Visier's absence whom the Sultan had charged not to make any peace without the delivery of Strigonium the only cause why they desired peace which if the Emperour would not yield then to take it by force and so refuse all other Treaty Wherefore the Emperour wholly resolved for Warr sent Count Zultze to Vienna appointing Basta his Lievtenant-Gen in Hungary advising them carefully to look to their charge and not to trust too much to the Turks glozing speeches Now the Haiducks who ceased not still to look abroad in roaming towards Belgrade lighted upon 〈◊〉 Castle wherein 800 Turks Souldiers and other their people abode with most of their substance who thrusting each other forward at length carried that strong place slew most of the Turks before secure and with the rest prisoners and a great rich Booty returned to Lippa The Garrison of 〈◊〉 likewise took and spoiled the Castle and Borrough of Lambac setting it on fire the flame whereof being a Signall to 〈◊〉 Troops passing that way they cut the Turks in pieces and recovered the Booty About which time some of the Garrison of Petrinia corrupted conspiring with the Turks to deliver to them that strong Castle by a Mine they were making under a Stable nigh the Storehouse of powder by firing the same to have given them entrance who lay close in a Wood near the place certain offenders being then prisoners in the Stable perceiving their purpose and fearing to be burnt or blown up discovered the same who being by the Governour apprehended and
into Comagena then destitute of sufficient Garrisons and that Selimus then in Judea's 〈◊〉 might easily be inclosed by them both and vanquished or distressed for want and the rather for that there was no Turkish Fleet on that Coast c. Sinan the while Selimus his forerunner having 〈◊〉 divers Companies of theevish Arabians was come to Gaza the 〈◊〉 though in heart the Mamalukes yielded him their City on composition and relieved him giving him great dissembled thanks that by his meanes they were 〈◊〉 from the Mamalukes bondage ever promised to remain faithfull for so great a benefit Sinan commending their good will lodged his Army nigh the Walls within defence of the Gardens there to expect Selimus his coming And the while 〈◊〉 sought to get knowledge of that 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Country chiefly of the nature of the great sanos winning by rewards the Inhabitants thereabout to procure the chief Arabians favour by large offers and to spie what the Mamalukes did at Caire c. and give him knowledge The Gazians on tother side advertized Tomombeius of Sinan's coming and that he might be oppressed before Selimus came if a strong power were sent thither and if the Mamalukes would at an appointed time set by night upon them they then sallying out would do them what harm they could with fire and sword Tomombeius presently sent Gazelles with 6000 choise Horsemen and many Arabians who having shewn himself a politique and valiant Chiefetain all held a great opinion of his valour and direction But Sinan was instantly advertised by his Intelligencers that they were coming suddenly to oppress him and would be with him within two dayes being on the 〈◊〉 But Sinan though he knew nothing yet providently suspecting the Gazians treachery silently betwixt 10 and 12 at night 〈◊〉 his Army marched about 15 miles toward Aegypt nigh which was a small Village wherein Travellers lodged for a plentious Spring 〈◊〉 rise h Sinan and Gazelles both purposed to stay there both whose fore runners brought newes that the enemy was at hand Gazelles not a little troubled and unable to fight in plain battel especially his Horses 〈◊〉 sore wearied was inforced on a new resolution yet not 〈◊〉 he chearfully exhorted his Souldiers to make ready and perform that by force which they could not by policy Sinan having somewhat sooner set his men in order as taking order before with long hopeful perswasions encouraged his to play the men not to think of flight for the wayes would be shut up chiefly to be perswaded no one could perish but whom the immortal God had appointed to die that valiant men found life in the midst of their enemies as cowards death in their safest flight Sinan placed his Harquebusiers in the wings in thin Ranks the easier to use their pieces and enclose the enemy Gazelles sent before the Arabian light Troops to trouble the enemies wings charging their middle battel with a square battel The battel was long terrible and doubtful for the Turks being glad to give ground and disordered by the Mamalukes breaking in began to look which way to flee but the Harquebusiers having repulsed the Arabians wheeling about enclosed the enemies battel whereby men and Horse were a far off slain true valour helping them not for the Mamalukes pressing forward the Turks retired labouring only to gaul them with shot Gazelles his Horses being spent the Arabians beginning to fall off and many of his valiantest men slain or wounded himself also wounded in the neck making his way thorow losing divers Ensigns fled back to Caire having lost the Governours of Alexandria and Caire with 1000 more and a great number of Arabians Sinan lost above 2000 of his best Horsemen some being noted Commanders The Turks not able to pursue there encamped near the Fountain and next day gathering the spoil fastned their enemies heads known by their long beards upon date Trees in witness of their labour and to feed the eyes of fierce Selimus shortly to passe that way They of Gaza supposing Sinan on some knowledge of the Mamalukes coming had retired early setting upon many left in the Camp most being sick and weak slew them and presently spoyled 2000 Horsemen of their Carriages putting them to flight who were sent from Selimus to Sinan who fearing he had been lost with his Army in fear retiring were slain by the Arabians neither had one escaped if Juleb sent from Selimus to Sinan with Graecian Horsemen at Rama had not repressed their fury yet they calling for more and more dwelling in the Mountains were a great Army overtaking the Turks at the Village Carasbara forcing them to fight in a place of great disadvantage for having taken straits closing in the passage of a large Valley they were before behind and on both sides at once They skilfully used Bows and Arrows with long Speares armed at both ends upon their swift Horses so that the Turks keeping close hardly defended themselves in number few Juleb opening the way by 4 pieces of Artillery speedily brought his men thorow those straits then marching more safely he skirmished a far off with them discharging his Field-pieces where he saw the thickest of those wild people yet they were still hovering in their rear slaying such as could not follow and not suffering them to refresh or take rest so that many through thirst wounds and labour died but a great number of other Turks met them unlooked for being even at last cast for Selimus having left Imbrahor Bassa upon Persia's borders and sent for supplies from Constantinople by Sea to be transported had removed from Damasco and the better to provide for Victuals and forrage every day sent before great Companies of his Army Juleb next day meeting with Selimus told him all that had hapned and what they conjectured of Sinan Bassa He now exceeding melancholy thought good to go no further before he knew how it stood with Sinan in whose fortune he had put the hope of his good success But suddenly came the Syrian Spies declaring what Sinan had done turning that melancholy into joy seeing by that Victory Aegypt laid open to him c. Next day removing to Rama he burnt by the way the dwellings Wives and Children of those Arabians who had done so much harm to his men and sending his Foot to Sinan at Gaza himself turned on the left hand to Jerusalem to visit that ancient and famous City then unpeopled desolate and defaced not inhabited by Jews but mostly by a few poor Christians who payed a wondrous yearly tribute to the Sultan of Aegypt for the possession of the holy Grave reverently worshiping the Monuments of the Prophets and having done special sacrifice to Mahomet he gave to the Christian Priests keepers thereof as to devout men money to maintain them for six moneths and afrer one nights stay marched in four dayes to Gaza having skirmishes day and night with the Arabians who where the Turks were forced for the wayes straightness
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
themselves yield resolving to begin the war at the City Damiata the first and commodiousest Port by whose taking they should enter Nile and command the Country thereabouts This rich and ancient City stood about a mile from the Sea somewhat distant from Nile environed with a navigable cut like an Island and compassed with 3 strong stone-Walls a strong watch Tower at the Cut's mouth a number of fair houses about it entrenched the Cut also was barred with a great strong iron chain The Christians by great strength coming with their Fleet brake the chain but they 〈◊〉 a greater stay at the Watch-Tower which strongly built and well stored the Souldiers overwhelmed them with shot fire stones c. The Christians had built high woodden Towers on Vessels for assault in the approach the Marriners and Souldiers hindred each other by crying they should draw nigher the Tower others 〈◊〉 cast 〈◊〉 the bridges for entry the enemy also with clamour encouraging one another In this hurly-burly the higest Tower over-charged with men fell with an exceeding noise crushing some to death the timber oppressing others being hurt and crying for help others hurt leapt for fear some into Nile some aboard ships crying out of arm leg head other part discomfiting the rest and giving over the assault King John the Armies General appeasing the tumult giving those that were hurt to Surgions and burying the dead bodies chearfully perswaded the Souldiers not to be discouraged this Towers fall being through wars chance not their cowardise or the enemies valour Meledine encamped in sight of Damiata to fill the besieged with hopes of relief often sending then by the River whatsoever they wanted skirmishes passing daily betwixt both The Christians had still the victory but could neither be drawn to battel nor kept from victnals it being conveighed out of upper Aegypt by Nile whereas the same River dividing into many arms c. gave our men a 1000 inconveniences therefore they resolved to besiege the Tower again framing a strong Tower on 2 fastned Vessels and bringing it near their Tower the rest of the Fleet following for assault others standing in battel range at Land to discourage the besieged and that the Sultan should not help them without hazzarding battel They of the subburbs valiantly defended a fierce and cruel assault for it being a publick Mart-City there 〈◊〉 in the 〈◊〉 not only Aegyptians but Arabians Indians c. who fought for defence of lives and goods our men being animated also as in religious quarrels so with the spoil of those rich Nations The Christians drew as near with their ships as they could to Land that they might fight hand to hand But the Barbarians soughr by shot c. to keep them from landing The enemy boarding by chance a ship running a ground and making a cruel slaughter a Souldier made a great hole under the hatches and drowned a great number of Aegyptians with the Christians which most feard them The high Tower also now mating the Watch-tower dismaied the Defendants as with a miracle forsaking the Tower and fleeing which thus taken the discouraged in the Suburbs fleeing many were wounded from the Watch-tower by the Christians Other ships then landing the Souldiers put all they found to the sword There was abundance of victuals but far more riehes Now they 〈◊〉 the strong Town Damiata but gaining nothing but hard blows and wounds they retired yet they lodged in the Suburbs lying betwixt the Sultan and the City that no supply should be brought the enemy being to their great losse oft hindered both from entring or sallying forth But now Nile swelling with an Eastern wind most of the Christians victuals were spoiled who through the Pope's Legat fasting and praying for 3 daies the wind falling and the River decreasing on the fourth day they prayed more earnestly thinking as the Almighty had feared so he had comforted them again Victual growing scant in the Sultan's Camp he sent away half his Army about Caire at which time 〈◊〉 sent Embassadours to the Princes of the Christian Army in his own and the Aegyptian Sultan his brothers behalf suing for peace and promising to restore whatever his Father Saladine had taken from them most liking that well saying They had taken up 〈◊〉 for recovery of that had been before gotten that all these things being restored there rested no further occasion of war c. Yet Pelagins the Popes Legat for the other 〈◊〉 dead King John Master of the Hospitallers and Templers Duke of Austria and the Germans were contrary in opinion alleading this sacred war was undertaken against the Infidels and Mahometan Superstition and they ought to impugn Aegypt as its chief seat whereby the Sultans large offers were rejected Whereupon Coradine fearing forthwith raced the Walls of Jerusalem 〈◊〉 down most of the stately buildings yet sparing David's Tower and Christ's Sepulchre at the humble intercession as is said of the Christians of divers Countreys The Plague arising in the Christians Camp at Damiata the great Commanders so many dying who would have 〈◊〉 the Sultans large proffers began to repent they had so much hearkened to the Legat. The Christians weary of a now 6 moneths siege and the Sultan but only the choice of his men having sent away the rest stood not so carefully on their guard as before whereupon the Sultan in the night hoped to send supplies to the besieged The formost Companies were already entred but the Christians perceiving them so assailed the hindermost that the enemy fearing they should enter in with them shut the gates where they were all cut to pieces The Christians hereby encouraged next day part of the Army presented themselves to give the Sultan battel who would not be drawn out of his trenches they especially the French-men attempted their rampiers but not with answerable successe The Aegyptians enforcing their small number to retire Gualter with others being lost the King also assailing the Camp lost many his face burnt hardly escaping with life After which they thought of nothing but the siege and the City now more streightly besieged and brought to extream 〈◊〉 assembled themselves to consult what to do one or other secretly fleeing to the Camp Had not the chief Commanders mured up the gates and commanded none to come on the Walls or Rampiers the City had been by the most yielded who searching especially Shops and Ware-houses divided the small store of Wheat among themselves the people eating whatsoever came to hand prolonged life with what they could find These not able to endure famins extremities were greatly slaughtered with the plague which so encreased that men were wanting not only to succour c. the sick but to bury the dead The dead bodies gave a horrible stink with infectious air they choosing rather to die than submit themselves to their enemies The Christians knew of the famine but not of the raging Plague among them They cast up Trenches and Baricadoes to keep in such
not proud of thy fortune but consider the uncertainty of worldly things taking by me example c. Young Andronicus moved herewith entred the pallace humbly saluting embracing and comforting his Grand-father Straight way carrying away the Patriarch Esaius kept in the Monastery in a Chariot restoring him to his Dignity who spared not fully to revenge himself of the old Emperour's friends One might have seen all the Nobles wealth that took his part carried away and their houses overthrown especially of Metochita whose wealth not onely in his house but layd up with friends by notes in his study was a prey to the people and the rest confiscate being brought with wife and children to extream beggery in one day many to increase his grief saying All that treasure was the blood and tears of the poor subjects brought to him by them he made rulers of provinces c. that he might stop them cruelly dealt with by them from complaining to the old Emperour and that the Revenger's eye was now awaked c. He was confined to Didymoticum whence after a while he was sent back to Constantinople where having nothing to relieve him he went to the Monastery of Chora repaired by him in his prosperity therein shrowding himself and not long after dying But Niphon sometime Patriarch meeting the young Emperour the same day asked How they would deal with his Grand-father Who answering Emperour-like was by him inflamed for Niphon bare a special grudge against the old man for that he being by the Clergy outed of his Patriarchship for his shameful extortion was not defended as he looked for and dreaming his taking out of the way was a step to the same Dignity Wherefore he said If thou desirest to Reign without fear c. cast haire cloath on him and clap him in prison or exile him to which ungracious counsel other Nobles consenting much changed the young Emperour's minde that he could not endure his Grand-father a Companion in the Empire Whereupon it was decreed the old man should retain the name and ornaments but meddle with nothing nor come abroad with 10000 duckets yearly for his maintenance Of which shameful decree 〈◊〉 the Patriarch was a furtherer rejoycingly wresting this Scripture The just shall rejoyce when he seeth the Vengeance But the old Emperour thus shut up humours distilling through grief first lost one eye and shortly the other being often mocked not by his guarding enemies onely but by his own servants The young Emperour not long after falling very sick Catacuzene and the rest yet doubtful of the old blind man put him to choice either to put on him the habit of a Monk or to take dear exile or perpetual imprisonment At which hard choice he oppressed with woes lay on bed a great while speechlesse for being encompassed with barbarous Souldiers none was left to direct him where to go or stand But would he or not they shaving and polling him cast a Monks habite on him changing after the manner his name to Anthony the Monk of which Esaeias was glad as now no hope to recover the Empire nor cause for himself to fear Yet seeming to be very sorry but indeed deriding him he sent two Bishops to know of him how he would be remembred in Church-prayers To which fetching a great sigh he answered As in poor Lazarus appeared a double miracle that dead he rose and bound walked so in me in a contrary manner who alive am dead and loose bound my tongue also wherewith I might at least bewaile my woes and wrongs to the Aire c. But shame hath closed my mouth my brethren abhorre me and the light of mine eyes is not with me c. As for him that sent you I chose and preferred him to the Patriarchship before many worthy men never before preferred or famous c. But in my Calamity he joyned with mine enemies more cruel than any other feigning him to be much like the Crocodile of Nile ignorant and sorry for me But if I should answer to his catching question to be remembred in the Church as an Emperour I shall forthwith be slain If I say as Anthony the Monk it will be taken that of mine own free will I put on this habite which was never in my thought Thus he sent them away and sitting down said My soul return to thy rest c. neither spake he one word more in declaring his grief and so against his will passing over his sorrow in silence as astonished before the humorus gathered into the brain could be difsolved into tears But the Patriarch decreed he should be remembred before his Nephew in Church prayers as the most Religious and Zealous Monk Anthony the better to colour the matter as if weary of the world he voluntary took it on him Yet in four daies Synadenus understanding the people secretly to mutter at the hard dealing with him Ecclesiastical Laws enforcing none against will to enter Religious orders sent to exact an oath of him in writing that he should never seek after accept of or substitute any other in the Empire and to fear him of his life upon refusal setting barbarous Souldiers over him so yielding he signed the Oath with a red and black crosse another guiding his hand Thus living two years on Feb. 12th towards night a day dedicated to St. Anthonies Vigil certain friends had accesse to him amongst whom was the Prince of Servia's widow his daughter and Nicephor as Gregoras Authour of this History with whom he entred discourse till past mid-night then bidding them farewell pleasantly saying To morrow they would end their discourse no signe of sicknesse appearing They gone he eat of a shell-fish after which as his manner was when he felt inward heat he drank cold water then feeling a great pain in his Stomach and afterwards very sick fell into a loosenesse and going often to a house of Office in an inner Chamber not able to recover his own bed and none to help him he dyed before day sitting on a homely bed fast by having Reigned 43 years whose death was by strange signs and accidents foretold a great Eclipse of the Sun just 43 daies before and after of the Moon an earthquake the day before the Sea rising above the bounds made breaches in the Citie-Walls c. Many Crosses and Pinacles with a great Pillar before the Church of the 40 Martyrs he having wished to live so long as it stood were overthrown He was honourably buried in the Monastery of Libe whose Obsequies 9 daies yearly were solemnly kept Thus the Reader may see the Greek Emperour's were not at leasure to look over into Asia At which time Othoman on one side in Phrygia and Bithynia and Aladin's Successours along Meander encroached as fast till the Greeks were thrust quite out But Othoman's 2 Garrisons built before Prusa having continued certain years brought the City to such 〈◊〉 that many Citizens and others died of famine The rest out of hope to
be relieved yielded the City to Orchanes to depart safely with as much goods as themselves could carry Most write the Turks faithfully performed the conditions yet some report Orchanes brake most part Prusa was yielded 1327 and afterwards by Orchanes made the seat of the Othoman Kings Othoman died in the year 1328 69 years old in the 28th year of his Reign buried at Prusa whose Tomb is there yet to be seen c. There is another Monument of him at Suguta by his Father's Sepulchre made by his Sons Some report him to be there buried yet the Turks generally suppose his interring Monument is at Prusa He was 〈◊〉 politick valiant and fortunate full of dissimularion and ambition not rash in attempts but very resolute bountiful especially to his men of war and the poor He is worthily accounted the Turks Empire's Founder whose Kings by lineal descent are called The Othoman Kings and the Turks Osmanide or people of Osman The Life of Orchanes or Vrchan second King of Turks AFter Othoman's death with great solemnity interred Orchanes or Urchan and Aladin his Sons 〈◊〉 a 〈◊〉 for establishing a new succession and dividing his treasure and goods but he having bestowed it on his men of war there was no Mony Plate or Jewels found but the remembrance of his life for them to imitate great Dominions store of horses and armour with great heards of Cattel Aladin answered to Orchanes asking what order was to be taken with those things That it was requisite first to establish a King which like a good shepherd might govern c. And that to him as his eldest brother all other things belonged and so to me instead of a Father c. Through this commended modesty of Aladin the Kingdom peaceably descended to Orchanes who would have made him President of his Councel but he requested rather the Lordship of Fodore which frankly granted Aladin lived there mostly a private and quiet life then building two Temples and an Abby at Prusa Some report Orchanes obtained the Kingdom by murthering two elder brothers which he had But that practise lately much used was not before Bajazet 1. as the most probable collections from the Turks Chronicles affirm The Christians presently recovered Nice with divers holds from the Turks Among whom Tzuprichiser Castle on the River Sangarius by impeaching that passage into Bithynia most grieved them Orchanes apparrelling himself and few others like Christian Marchants came to the Castle craving leave to passe they supposing them to be Merchants let them in who 〈◊〉 the warders possessed the Castle who now so forraged the Countrey that Nice wanting victuals to relieve so many fled into it for fear was brought to great extremity For whose relief young Andronicus passed the strait into Asia whose greatest strength was in 2000 choise horsemen the rest being most 〈◊〉 who carried many small Vessels with them to receive them when they should flee or Rascals taken up here and there Orchanes sent expert Captains to forelay the strait passages following with his Army The Emperour in three daies march came to the little Town Philocrene and understanding Orchanes laying not far off having taken the straits he there stayed that night Next morning divers Turks Companies coming down the Mountains he set forward to meet them The Turks shot freely keeping themselves a loof off The Emperour supposing that proceeded from fear commanded some Companies disorderly to march and skirmish with them his expert Captains would have had him kept his strength together yet such was his youthful heat they must needs set forward But the forenoon spent in this leight skirmishing Orchanes perceiving the Christians weary therewith and the heat came down with a world of men charging them with a hideous cry some a far off some hand to hand both sides were couragious with great slaughter till nights approach then the Christians weary and oppressed with multitudes retired disorderly receiving great losse by the pursuers The battel was at length ended the Emperour wounded in the foot who going to Philocrene fast by to be dressed the Army supposing him to have fled as if Orchanes would have slain them all that night fled also some to their boats some hasting to the Town-gates were by others trodden to death some hanging at one another got some up the Towns Rampiers others drawn down by the hangers on 〈◊〉 on and perished some 't is reported died for fear none chasing them In the morning 200 of the 300 horsemen that Orchanes retiring to places of advantage doubting the Christians farther coming on had left as scouts took the spoyl of the forsaken Camp at pleasure yea the Emperour 's own furniture and 〈◊〉 horses the other 100 slew a great number of hartless wandring Christians The Emperour seeing the hand of God returned to Constantinople After which the Turks seizing many Sea Towns of Bithynia laid heavy tributes on the other Country places not destroying them for the benefit thereof Nice holding now out in hope only of 1000 horsmen the Emperour promised to send to lye in Garrison Of which Orchanes understanding furnished 800 of his own after the Christians manner who by a compass about trooped towards the City in the high-way from Constantinople Then sending 300 other in Turks habit to forrage the 〈◊〉 within the Cities view what they could the 800 following them as by chance put them toflight in their sight who returned again towards Nice The Citizens supposing them Constantinopolitan horsmen with joy received them as expected friends But entring the gates and seconded with the other 300 bringing also others in ambush not far off won the great City whose spoil the Souldiers had the Citizens led into miserable Captivity and they possessing it to this day Orchanes other Captains daily encroached on the weak Christians Cunger Alpes subdued 〈◊〉 in Phrygia Bolli in Paphlagonia appointing valorous Abdura Cham Governour Then also old Accecozza subjected Candara and Ermome to the Turk 〈◊〉 all Castles c. Then 〈◊〉 the Captains Son in Scamandria not far from old Troys ruins died to whose 〈◊〉 his Father with his 〈◊〉 repeiring crafty Accecozza suddenly setting on them slew most and took the rest with the Captain his Castle and Countrey whom he leading to Abydus renowned Castle situate on Asia's Sea coast over against Sestus Castle in Europe so near as he could offered him liberty on the Castles surrender or they to see him there slain who said They might cut off his head seeth him and eat him but the Castle he would not deliver The Emperour refused also to redeem him proffered unto him yet at last by Nicomedia's Governour ransomed Accecozza at Scamandria being long molested by Abydus Castle and the Constantinopolitans was glad to be most times on horseback against the enemies attempt The Captain of Abydus had a fair young Daughter who then dreamed that fallen into a deep miry ditch a young gallant comming by did both help her out make her clean and richly
rich garment with some other gift telling them he inrended to recover his Fathers Kingdom in Europe or there to end his daies said The prey shall be theirs that win it a Horse Sword and Mace shall content my self So coming to Bosphorus Strait the Emperour transported his Army into Europe and feasted him in a Country Pallace who though he excused to joyn through age with him in that war yet assisted him with some Christian Companies who stood the Turks in grear stead marching to the River Wyzen where Eurenoses by the way advising him to march very circumspectly and not too much to hasten joyning battel counselled him also if by any means to allure Jegides 〈◊〉 Barac Beg and Siman Beg to follow him promising in good time to come himself He shortly marching to Hadrianople Cara Calile began to shew himself and presently put to flight by Michael Ogli besieging Hadrianople the Citizens sent to certifie him they could not through Musa's Garrison then deliver him the City but if by trying it in the field he should carry the victory they should be ready to yield themselves City and all to his pleasure Mahomet content raised the siege marching towards Zagora Musa is reported to come secretly into Mahomet's Camp disguised but perceiving himself too weak withdrew 〈◊〉 woods and strong places from thence to Philopopolis 〈◊〉 along the River Meritze where Jegides with two of Musa's Captains setting on 〈◊〉 rear were by Michael repulsed Mahomet 〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉 as he 〈◊〉 Muse shewed his Army from the Mountains not daring to come down to battel Mahomet marching to 〈◊〉 Jegides Barac and Siman perswaded by Eurenoses 〈◊〉 to him We are three young men having 3000 〈◊〉 Souldiers of incomparable valour c. Draw near 〈◊〉 with what speed thou canst and thou shalt find us 〈◊〉 to come to thee He marching all next night came to the River Morava where the 3 Captains joyned unto him Old Eurenoses also with a great company of expert Souldiers Mark of Servia sent him aid also He began to march farther to Cossova his forces still increasing by the revolt of his Brothers Musa seeing none almost left but the Souldiers of the Court his best and faithfullest men thought best to attempt something before left alone seeking with 7000 to take his brother at advantage But Mahomet had a vigilant eye unto him At last he suddenly set upon his brothers Army but oppressed with multitude after a bloudy fight was put to the worst which he seeing sought death among the thickest of his enemies But Bajazet Bassa desirous to take him alive he was be-set and breaking from the midst of them fled But his horse falling into a muddy ditch or as some hoxed by his owu servant and himself wounded overthrew him and was there taken by Bajazet 〈◊〉 and Barac hardly persuing him Being brought hand-bound through the Army which grieved many most were glad hoping this long Civil war would now end Shortly after came Balta Ogli sent as they thought from Mahomet who after a bitter reproof for his cruelty to Solyman caus'd him to be strangled with a Bow-string Mahomet shed a few Crocodiles tears over his dead body He lyeth buried at Prusa by Solyman reigning 3 years 7 months Mahomet now taking on him the sole Government in Europe and Asia 〈◊〉 Turkish histories here begin his reign accounting 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 time to Musa's death as a vacancy But 〈◊〉 Mahomet held all or most in Asia during this 〈◊〉 in the end the other part in Europe also I reckon 〈◊〉 Bajazet's Successour including all that intestine Tragedy wherein he was chief actor Mahomet busied against Musa in Europe the King of Caramania invaded his Kingdom joyning upon him in Asia burning and spoyling all before him Eivases his Lievtenant not able to withstand him and fearing his coming to Prusa made the Citizens bring most of their wealth into the Castle receiving so many of them as he could willing the rest to shift for themselves The King shortly came to Prusa not yet fully fortified burning it to the ground the second time and besieging the Castle gave it great assaults for 30 daies but was repulsed by Eivases comforting his Souldiers that Mahomet overcomming in Europe would come in few daies for relief Musa's dead body was then conveighing to Prusa with much people The Caramanian fearing it was Mahomet with his power speedily departed the Turks long jested saying If the Caramanian run for fear of the Othoman Kings dead body What would hâ—â— had he come against them alive Solyman's Son a boy departed from Constantinople for the League made between the Emperour and Mahomet to go into Valachia by the way great numbers of voluntary Turks offered to spend their lives in his quarrel Mahomet marching hastily to suppress them they dispersed fled Orchanes being betrayed by his Tu or Zaganes Mahomet put out his Eys allowing him gâ—eat Revenues at Prusa c. This is he who some reckon among the Turkish Kings betrayed to his Uncle Moses etring I suppose in succession and name Now Mahomet assembled a great Army to revenge himself of the Caramanian King Isfendiar sending his Son Casumes for aid and commanding Germian Ogli to provide for victualling as he passed by he entred Caramania taking three Cities and besieging Iconium but through the rain then falling he made peace with the Caramanian News was brought him into Pontus that he renouncing his League was again in Arms. Wherefore returning to Iconium he overthrew the King taking him and his Son prisoners who redeeming themselves by many Cities and Castles concluded a peace receiving of him an Ensign as a token of Vassâ—lship Then passing over Danubius iu Europe he forraged Valachia Transal pina whose Prince sent him what tribute he demanded and his Son to serve in his Court. Then about happenned a great earth-quake in Prusa c. great troubles ensuing in Asia Yet Mahomet going thither kept all in quiet Isfendiar disinheriting his Son for that he would not return to him from Mahomet's Court and wars reserving Castamona with a little more gave Mahomet the rest who in lieu gave Cassumes other great possessions in his own Kingdom He sent Bedredin Musa's Cadelcher to Nice as exiled yet allowing him a great pension Bedredin having in his house one Burgluzes they laid their heads how to trouble Mahomet's peaceable Government Wherefore Burgluzes going into Aidinia pretending great zeal broached divers strange opinions by which he was shortly reputed a famous learned and devout man and had many followers c. Bedredin fled to Isfendiars Country from thence into Valachia and in a Forrest as some devout man allured to him a number of Out-laws and theives there living whom instructed he sent in religious habit into Zagora and other Mahomet's frontiers as his Disciples who published his doctrine c. and that he was by God appointed King of justice and Commander of the world set forth by Burgluluses and received in Asia
therefore they should repair to Bedredin shortly to shew himself and promote his followers according to desert Many in hope of preferment resorted to Bedredin who at last came out of the Forrest with displayed Banner and a great multitude resorting daily unto him Mahomet sent his Son Amurath and Bajazet with 2000 to apprehend Burgluzes whom they found guarded with 3000 well appointed there was a bloudy battel and many slain the rebells fleeing Burgluzes was slain and hewen to pieces 〈◊〉 Bajazet executed Torlac Kema who with 2000 seduced did much harm about Magnesia Mahomet sending also against Bedredin whose followers seeing in him no such matter as they hoped for were fallen from him whereby he easily apprehended was brought to Mahomet at Serras and hanged in the Market-place Mahomet furnished the great Temple at Hadrianople begun by Solyman and Musa where he built a Princely Pallace also another Temple a sumptuous Abby a publick School 〈◊〉 with great Revenues giving also great sums yearly for Pilgrims travelling far to Mahomets Sepulchre at Medina or his Temple at Mecha Shortly after falling sick at Hadrianople he sent in post to Amasia for Amurath his eldest Son by his last will to succeed him But feeling death approach he streightly charged his Bassaes to conceal his death till his comming lest any trouble should arise So he departed about the year 1422 reigning 17 years Bajazet's rent Kingdom being by him wholly restored 7 years before his death The 3 Bassaes Evaises Bajazet and Ibrahim fearing the Janizaries and other Court Souldiers called a Counsel of war as if he were alive pretending the Kings pleasure for the Janizaries to passe to Baga Castle in Asia to war on the Prince of Smyrna Press-mony being presently given they were sent over with Letters c. The Bassaes sat daily in Counsel placing and displacing as if the King had so commanded His Physitians also went with their potions c. as they had wont Yet the Pensioners and others some of them of the Privy Chamber suspecting said They marvelled the King shewed not himself so long as before he did The Bassaes answered He was yet but little recovered and the Physitians would not suffer him to look abroad Then said they ready to force in We `will our selves see his Majesty Eivases desired them not then to trouble him having taken Physick but to morrow said he we will request if he please that ye may see him Geordiron a subtil Persian Physitian devised that the dead body Royally apparelled and wrapped about his head should be brought betwixt two as if led into an high open Gallery and a Boy neatly placed under his Robes behind to move his hand as stroaking his face or beard as his manner was Being brought accordingly suddenly a Physitian came in fuming and raging c. asking the Bassaes if they meant to kill the King by bringing him into the open air c. Pardon us good Doctor said Eivases for these pointing to the Pensioners were so importunate to see him that he was content to be led forth c. They supposing him to be alive held themselves contented The Physitians carried him in again as an extream sick man His death was thus concealed 41 daies He was wise and valiant exceeding bountiful but ambitious above measure He left to Amurath an entire Kingdom in the former greatness though not much augmented His body lyeth buried in a fair Tomb in a Chappel at the East of Prusa The Life of Amurath II. sixth King of the Turks and the great Establisher of their Kingdom AMurath or Murat being placed in his Fathers Seat and Mahomet's death published great troubles began to arise The Princes of Smyrna and Mentesia rose in Arms and at Thessalonica an obscure fellow took on him the name and person of Bajazet's Son slain long before against Tamerlain This counterfeit animated by Greek Princes and going to Vardarium set on so good a courtenance that not only the Country people but Tzunites Beg the prince of Smyrna's Son with Eurenoses 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 unto him as to their naturall Prince Going to Hadrianople Amurath yet at Prusa he was received as Mustapha and shortly honoured as King in all the Turkish Kingdom in Europe Amurath sending Bajazet Bassa with a strong Army into Europe he found all the Country 〈◊〉 to Mustapha but being forsaken of the European Souldiers which he brought and afterwards of the rest he with his brother Hamze yielded for safety to Mustapha upon promise of loyalty sworne one of his Privy-Councel who the better to maintain his credit 〈◊〉 a great Army to make war upon Amurath in Asia On the way his Counsellours repining at Bajazet's 〈◊〉 advised him to beware he trusted him not too far c. Whereupon Bajazet apprehended was without tryal 〈◊〉 and Haze with much ado spared This done he proceeding marching over into Asia Amurath joyned three new 〈◊〉 Temurtases his Sons to Ibrahim and Eivases by whose advice he sent for Michael Ogli Viceroy in 〈◊〉 in Musa's time after 8 years imprisonment from Musa's deposing because well known to most chief men in Mustapha's Army Amurath setting forward to 〈◊〉 him distrusting his forces much inferiour to Mustapha's prostrated himself at an Emir's feet one of Mahomet's posterity to receive a blessing for his better 〈◊〉 c. For all whose charms he marched in fear 〈◊〉 to the River Ulibad causing through Mustapha's 〈◊〉 the bridge to be broken down encamped on 〈◊〉 side Mustapha finding the bridge broken encamped on the other side They thus lying that both might 〈◊〉 together Michael Ogli called aloud upon the old Souldiers in Mustapha's Army asking by name for 〈◊〉 old friends many there present rejoycing to see him whom they supposed dead in prison came to the rivers 〈◊〉 to hear him Who lowdly perswaded them that this man was not the honorable Mustapha but some base 〈◊〉 fellow set up by the 〈◊〉 Princes as a vail c. 〈◊〉 them Bajazet's Son ended his daies 22 years before in his Countries defence in the great 〈◊〉 against Tamerlane wherefore they should forsake that supposed one yield obedience to their undoubted Soveraign Amurath These words from him whom they generally reverenced and trusted so wrought that some adventured over the river unto him and many that 〈◊〉 doubted Eivases also sent in secret to 〈◊〉 to terrify him that Amurath next night 〈◊〉 to pass over above the bridge his chief Captains 〈◊〉 promised to deliver Mustapha into his hands 〈◊〉 with some Troops in the night passed the river in 〈◊〉 same place with such noise as if Amurath's whole 〈◊〉 was coming Mustapha seeing things begin as 〈◊〉 had written and carrying a guilty 〈◊〉 fled in 〈◊〉 but with 10 persons none pursuing till he came to Boga river and by a great sum to the Captain of the Castle got passage landing the 3d day over Hellespont at Callipolis This known they all yielded to Eivases who repairing the bridge Amurath joyned with him Ibrahim
〈◊〉 with Amessa and other friends he closely followed but getting the 〈◊〉 with a 〈◊〉 followers in place convenient he slew all the Turks carrying away the Secretary bound and with threats 〈◊〉 him to write letters as from the Bassa to the Governour of Croia 〈◊〉 in Amurath's name to deliver to Scanderbeg the charge of the City and Garrison cunningly enterlacing other things c. And then 〈◊〉 the Secretary and many Turks coming in his way that his doings might be the longer kept from Amurath's knowledge Who having with him 300 Epirot Souldiers that followed him out of the battle came with incredible celerity into Dibria about 70 miles from Croia where staying but a day he chose a few to waite on him to Croia as if his houshould servants the rest with other 300 come out of Dibria he appointed secretly to be led thorow woods and mountains till come so nigh Croia as possible unperceived When he drew near the City he sent Amessa before as his Secretary to certifie the Governour of his coming who framing his countenance and attire as a natural Turk he delivered his Message with so good grace and words that all was verily believed But Scanderbeg himself coming and delivered the great Commanders letters the Governour delivering him the Government of the City departing next day with his houshold towards Hardrianople Scanderbeg thus gaining the chief City of Epirus in the dead of the night received in the Souldiers come from Dibria placing most in convenient places he with the rest flew the Watch and afterwards many in their beds the Christian Citizens also helping in a few hours there was none of the Turks Garrison left except some few who were content to forsake their superstition many chose rather to die and as is reported to kill themselves than so to save their lives Seanderbeg now sending speedy messengers into all parts of Epirus to disperse the news and 〈◊〉 up the people for recovery of their liberty flying fame had already prevented the Messengers and the oppressed Epirots were in armes in every place greatly desiring leaders yet running by heaps they slew most Turks 〈◊〉 in the Country abroad No Turk could stir but he was slain c. the Governour of Croia with his retinue was by the way slain by the Country people and his goods a prey Scanderbeg commanded those he appointed Captaines speedily to repaire to Croia with all power they could possibly make divers Nobles also resorting to him with their followers in few days he had 12000 well appointed wherein marching to Petrella 25 miles from Croia and 〈◊〉 on a steep rocky mountain as the rest of the Cities be he sent a wise Souldier to offer the Souldiers of Petrella that if they would yield it they should choose to continue in Scanderbeg's service with bountiful entertainement or depart with bag and baggage with honourable reward The subtile Messenger declared to them That Amurath lately vanquished by the Hungarians and looking daily to be set on by Christian Princes had no leisure to look to Epirus willing them to consider the dreadful misery that befell the Garrison at Croia c. The Governour considering the matter gave up the City onely upon departure with such things as they had because it should not be said he sold the City Scanderbeg giving them both meat and money sent them out of Epirus safely with a Convoy Petrella thus gained he placed therein a convenient Garrison presently marching towards Petra Alba in great hast It is a City in Aemathia 3 miles from Petrella Scanderbeg scarce well encamped but the Governour terryfied offered to deliver the City on the same conditions granted at Petrella which Scanderbeg faithfully performed All things were there set in order he came without delay to Stellusa a strong City 50 miles from Croia where 〈◊〉 next morning he sent a messenger to the City with like conditions accepted of at Petra Alba which most of the Souldiers would accept of but the Governour 〈◊〉 with a few earnestly withstood But the greater part when they could not perswade him with those few to yield they delivered him and them bound to Scanderbeg and so yielded up the City Wherefore fearing to return to Amurath some remained with Scanderbeg others provided for or rewarded departed whither they would All other weaker places in short time yielded themselves on like condition onely Sfetigrade in Epirus frontiers placed as it were an Eagles nest remained in the Turks possession Scanderbeg coming hither began to assay it by composition causing his Embassadours to declare all that happened at Croia Petrella c. how courteously he used the Garrison of Stellusa which yielded to him and having the Governour with his partakers in bonds whom they should see executed if they forthwith delivered it not This troubled the Garrison chiefly the Governour seeing thereby what might happen to himself Wherefore first entertaining the Embassadovrs honourably he said to the Citizens and Souldiers Worthy and faithful men what is your pleasure we shall answer to our enemies demands A rough and bold spirited Souldier drawing his sword and shaking it on high answered Most Valiant Governour this and the like shall answer for us Nothing was to lesse purpose than to seek to terrifie Valiant minds with the fortune of Croia and Stellusa c. we prescribe them of Petrella or Stellusa no laws neither let them us brave mindes disdain to imitate others in honest actions much lesse in cowardise Let Scanderbeg kill the Governour and our fellow Souldiers before our faces do ye therefore think we shall die in their bodies c. But oh happy bodies 〈◊〉 c. which in defence of their liberty and faith have contemned Gold Silver Death and 〈◊〉 Wherefore carry back this answer from a common Souldier If thy Master seek to impose these conditions on us let him once more bare his Arme which men of courage fear not so much as he thinketh Yet Scanderbeg is not the 〈◊〉 we have heard him reported to be sor why holding the Governour of Stellusa in bonds doth he threaten him with death not deserving the same c Then the Suoldiers thronging about him beating their swords and targets gave a shout as approving his speech So the Governour returning the common Souliders answer appointed every man to his charge ordering all things for defence of the City Scanderbeg smiling at the common Souldiers answer said He is a Valiant Souldier if his deeds be answerable to his speeches but if my force fail 〈◊〉 I will make him happy among the happy Ghosts of Stellusa and commanding the Governour to be brought with the other some forsaking Mahometism were baptized 〈◊〉 with the rest were put to death in sight of the Garrison Souldiers shouting from the wall and railing on the Christians Winter now grown on he left 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 with 3000 Souldiers to keep in the Turks at 〈◊〉 and defend Epirus borders till a more convenient 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to Croia when in a
little above a month he had recovered his Kingdom 〈◊〉 being also ere long delivered by composicion during this time he slept 〈◊〉 above 2 hours in a night fighting alwaies with his arme bare the blood oft 〈◊〉 out of his lips 〈◊〉 written he slew 3000 Turks with his own hands in his wars against them After he had wrung his inheritance from Amurath he overran part of Macedonia making incursions into the heart of the 〈◊〉 so 〈◊〉 his Souldiers that they desired no 〈◊〉 pay it beginning to be a proverb that the spoil of Amurath's Dominions was Scanderbeg's revenews Amurath troubled with 〈◊〉 wars at first seemed not greatly to account of it though inwardly grieved at the heart But seeing no end to be expected of these miseries he sent 〈◊〉 's Bassa with 40000 〈◊〉 Souldiers to subdue Epirus This replenished the Turks with such hope of Victory that the Souldiers before setting forth were contending for division of the 〈◊〉 Fame also filled Epirus with great fear of Alis his coming The Country fleeing into strong Cities fortyfied the same watching and warding the aged commended them and theirs to God and the Souldiers courage with 〈◊〉 Scanderbeg was nothing moved having as was supposed 〈◊〉 from Friends in Court of all Amurath's designes Out of all the 〈◊〉 that repaired to him at Croia in Epirus from 〈◊〉 Princes c. besides 〈◊〉 Voluntiers he chose onely 8000 horse and 7000 〈◊〉 and placing some few in frontier Garrisons at which his friends yea and enemies marvelled With which 〈◊〉 marching to Dibria after encouraging his Souldiers he encamped in the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 where the Bassa must needs passe In which wood he placed Gnee and Amessa with 3000 to stand close till he had joyned battle with the Bassa then 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 forth upon his 〈◊〉 Who 〈◊〉 near 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 that night making great shew of 〈◊〉 with great fires whereas in 〈◊〉 Campe all was silent and no shew of fire which made 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the more carelesse Next morning 〈◊〉 placing 3000 horse and foot in the left 〈◊〉 and the like in the right himself led the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 The 〈◊〉 ward was 〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 then 〈◊〉 c. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 charged with a 〈◊〉 troope of 〈◊〉 who retired that the Christians hastily pursuing might disorder their battle But Scanderbeg perceiving the Bassa's meaning all was kept in good order So the wings beginning a 〈◊〉 Scanderbeg 〈◊〉 charged the Bassa with his main battle But those in the wood suddenly issuing upon the Turks rear made great slaughter and forced many to flee The Bassa's best Souldiers placed nearest himself renewed the 〈◊〉 almost lost Scanderbeg's fortune was even 〈◊〉 a 〈◊〉 till Uranocontes receiving the wearied into the reare brake thorow the Bassa's Army with fresh troopes brought thence with such slaughter that he made way for all the rest The Turks discomfited fled whom the Christians fiercely pursuing slew of them 22000 2000 taken prisoners 24 Turks Ensigns of the Christians were slain not past 120. Scanderbeg making his 7000 foot horsemen with the Turks horses entred far into Macedonia filling his Souldiers with wealth and sparing nothing from fire and sword Aliâ— with the remainder returning to Hadrianople was charged by Amurath of cowardise and indiscretion Whereof clearing himself by rehearsal of his former Victories and the testimony of the Captaines present in battle he was again received into favour Amurath overthrown first by Hunuâ—des now by Scanderbeg and elsewhere beset that he knew not which way to turn fell into such a Melancholy passion that he was about to execute himself had not Cali Bassa by whose perswasion he yielded to desire peace of Uladislaus using the Despot a mean therein comforted his dying spirits The Despot at first smally credited what the Embassadours told him till better perswaded he so wrought especially with Huniades that Amurath departing withall his forces out of Servia restored it to the Despot delivering him his 2 sons whom bereft of sight he had long kept in prison That thenceforth he should not claim Moldavia nor that part of Bulgaria lost in the last Wars Not to molest any part of Hungaria during the time and to pay 40000. Duckats for Carambey's ransome a Peace was for 10 years concluded and by solemn Oath on both parts confirmed This was the honourablest Peace ever before made with any Turk and most profitable had it been sincerely kept Amurath now converted all his forces against the Caramanian King injuring him whilst busied in the Hungarian Wars The Caramanian not daring to meet him nor trust to any his strong holds fortified himself in the mountaines Amurath made great spoile taking great booties in his Country at last hardly 〈◊〉 Iconium Whereupon he sent Embasladours with his wife Amurath's sister to intreat for Peace offering him the double tribute and his son in hostage Amurath granting him Peace returned In this War Amurath's Eldest son died with a fall from his horse hawking to his great grief Who old and thorowly wearied with Wars c. sending for his son Mahomet but 15 years old resigned to him his Kingdome appointing Cali Bassa and one 〈◊〉 his trusty Counsellours So with Hamze Beg departing to Magnesia he gave himself to a Monastery life amongst certain Turkish Monks Many Mahometan and Christian Princes sorry for the peace between Uladislaus and the Sultan thinking that War's prosecution would have been the utter ruine of the Turkish Kingdome sought by all means to induce 〈◊〉 to break the solemn league especially John the Greek Emperour remembring him of the confederacy made with other Christian Princes against the common enemy of Christianity that he rejecting divers offers of Amurath for Peace was ready with the other Princes to joyn his forces with his if he would which he could not do in a better time Amurath having drawn his greatest forces into Asia and betaken himself to a private life requesting 〈◊〉 not to leave them a prey to the Turk who when he thought himself safe from the Hungarians would invade them Then also letters came from the Cardinal of Florence General of the Fleet declaring how Amurath leaving almost none in Europe was gone into Asia that he was according to promise come to the straits of Hellespont to embarre his passage out of Asia Both these letters being 〈◊〉 in the Council the King with all the Hungarian Nobility were never more sorry or ashamed for any thing than the late league with Amurath c. whilst they stood wavering Julian the Legat an enemy to Peace and by his place next to the King disswaded them That they entred a League with the Turk an Infidel 〈◊〉 violate their faith with the Christians and break the holy League made with the great Bishop and other confederate Princes that they might recover 〈◊〉 long before destroyed verily a small and woful profit c. Did they not in his presence and he the Author willingly make a League with the Italians and Greeks that
attempts Yet seeing in that hot season he could not so closely encamp but that some part would still be in danger he appointed 〈◊〉 with 15000 to attend Scanderbeg Then battering the Walls afresh he made greater breaches than before appointing next day for a new assault But perceiving no signe of courage in their heavy countenances c he calling them 〈◊〉 said Every weake Castle can hold out one assault but if they will draw these wild beasts out of their dens they must arme themselves to endure whatever shall happen that great Captaines have growne old under their enemies Walls c that they remember the glorious victory of Varna that all honourable things are brought to passe with adventure and labour and the end of this War depends on taking of Croia that fortune is to be proved and oft provoked of them that will wed her Yet that they must work warily with this enemy that they should weare them out if they kill but ten at a daily assault That peradventure fortune may find some unlooked-for mean as at the 〈◊〉 of Sfetigrade c. Early next morning began a valiant assault the Turks assaying vainely and desperately to break open the Gates Wild-fire being cast into many places of the City and the Artillerie oft discharged into the breaches many Turks were slaine together with the Christians who still repulfed their enemies Yet Amurath maintained the assault by supplies but grieved at heart to see them so slaine at last weary to behold it and perswaded by his Bassaes not wilfully to cast away his valiant Souldiers he ended the assault and thought good to prove what might be done by undermining daily alaruming the City to busie the 〈◊〉 Buying store of Corne of the 〈◊〉 of Lisia Scanderbeg slaying the convoy carryed it away dividing it among his Souldiers Yet he received abundance of provision from Macedonia and the 〈◊〉 Merchants furnished him with Corne Oyle Hony c. which Scanderbeg they being his secret friends would not hinder considering he might have had all the same from the further part of Macedonia Thracia Mysia c. 400 Souldiers sallying out the while chased divers Turks to the Campe Amurath hoping they would to their losse give the like attempt But the governour would not suffer them any more to sally Scanderbeg also encreasing his Armie with 2000 〈◊〉 a part to Moses another to Tanusie a third to himself determining by night to assail the Camp in 3 places at once But Scanderbeg being discovered by their Scouts Souldiers were appointed diligently to guard that side Moses and Tanusie the while assailing in 2 divers quarters slew a number of Turks and made great spoile Scanderbeg discovered did not much harme and retiring sate down by faire daylight on a Mountaine's side in sight of the Turks that Moses and Tanusie might see to meet him again But the Turks thinking he stood to brave them divers craved leave that they might go and at least beat him out of sight which granted 7000 horse and 5000 foot presently set forward Scanderbeg seeing them retired a little farther up expecting Moses and Tanusies comming When the Turks well wearied and laboriously marching up the 〈◊〉 hills were come a great way and perceived by the dust some greater force and ere long saw the foremost of them they retired Scanderbeg pursuing through the grounds advantage slew many Moses also comming in beside 〈◊〉 took divers After which victory Scanderbeg retired into the Mountaines The late spoile with this overthrow much grieved the Tyrant but the mines 〈◊〉 to no good purpose for the Rocks hardnesse and the defendants discovery drove him to his wit's end Resolving now to prove if by great gifts and promises he could corrupt the Governour and 〈◊〉 he sent a dexterous Bassa commanding him if possible first to fasten rich presents on him in honour of his valiant minde and afterwards delivering his message to promise more than should be desired for giving up of the City The Bassa being with two Servants received into the City presented to Uranocontes the rich 〈◊〉 with much reverence and many magnificall words Uranocontes willed him first to declare his message whereupon he would either receive or refuse them The subtill Bassa nothing dismaied thus began That however they agreed yet they brought not these guifts to deceive any and though enemie's guifts are as he rightly said ever to be suspected Yet they durst not for shame come to so worthy a Governour empty handed neither ought he if he be what he seeme to refuse their courtesie c. That they went not about with filed speech and rich rewards to circumvent him whose invincible mind they had so oft in vaine proved with their forces That is it for which Amurath loveth him desiring to have his virtuous enemies with himself that he was worthy of another manner of Soveraign than Scanderbeg whom he condemned not and another manner of calling c that Scanderbegs destruction might be deferred but not avoided against whom Amurath conceiving implacable displeasure would never depart out of Epirus till he imposed a deadly yoake on his neck That the first of this misery beginneth at this City that his eyes would scarce behold the horrible spectacle of the men of Croia's miserable fortune c. Did they think Amurath would in the mid'st of this heat raise his siege and be gone No no if force will not prevaile they shall alwayes have these 〈◊〉 in their eves till long famine tame their courage Can Scanderbeg victuall them 〈◊〉 able to relieve his own misery or will the Venetians who daily brings them plenty of all necessaries Therefore they should repent of their over hardinesse and gather their wits together That they should find liberty rewards perpetuall rest with Amurath c. The Bassa expected some great motion in the Souldiers but perceiving his speech rather to fill them with anger than feare requested to talke in secret with the Governour which was granted who beginning cunningly to deliver his 〈◊〉 secret message Vranocontes interrupting him commanded him to depart and that if he or any other came from his Master to speak with him about any such matter he would returne them dismembred of hands noses and eares So the Bassa was with his presents turn'd out of the City though the Souldiers could well have eased him of that carriage Amurath understanding the Governours answer in great rage next day caused a furious assault to be given rather to satisfie anger than in hope to prevaile and with greater losse than before many Turks being slaine at the breach with their own great shot At length wearied he gave over returning to his Camp as halfe frantick or distract sitting all day full of melancholly passions 〈◊〉 violently pulling his beard and locks complaining that he lived so long to see those disgracefull dayes His Bassaes to comfort him recounted his many and glorious victories and producing examples of his like event But nothing
by Scanderbeg encountered hand to hand and slain Wherewith the Army discouraged fled Moses and Musachius killing more in 〈◊〉 than was in battell 4120 Turks were slain and some taken but few or no Christians so that Scanderbeg accounted it a Victory given All spoile and prisoners were equally divided among the Souldiers Moses had Debrias his horse and Armour Musachius a Prisoner seeming of some account given them whose prisoner drawing 200 Duckats out of a little bag about him for his agreed-ransome Musachius told him he must provide another seeing that money was taken with his person The Turk alleadged the agreement already made which controversie Scanderbeg hearing and smiling said They contended for what was by right his for said he I gave thee Musachius the prisoner which I knew but not the mońey which I knew not of And to the Turk the concealement makes it not thine who by law of Armes hast lost thy self with all about thee Thus he brirging them both in doubt awarded Musachius the money and to the Turk his liberty who departing with his horse and Armes spake honourably of so noble a Conquerour After this Scanderbeg triumphantly returned to Croia Mahomet being very melancholly with this newes seeing the many Souldiers that returned he could not endure the sight of them The Captaines generally envied Debreas his hardinesse or hated his insolency Amesa was glad his proud successour took part of his ill fortune The men of war offered to spend their lives in that service to their revengefull King which he seeming not to refuse had yet plotted another manner of revenge whereby his Father had brought great matters to passe He hoped to find some Chiefetain in Epirus whom wealth or promotion might allure against Scanderbegs life or state Moses of Dibria accounted the next best Captain to Scanderbeg and most inward with him he most desired to alienate from him because he commonly lay in Dibria on the very frontiers Wherefore he commanded the Governour of Sfetigrade to devise by all meanes to withdraw and allure Moses promising him also great preferment if he could win him Who at last thinking upon a shrewd-headed Christian in Sfetigrade whom therefore he might use unsuspected and winning him by great gifts and promises to undertake it sent him away fully instructed who obtaining to speak with Moses in private after some discourse began to utter his poyson shewing him as from the Governour that the Turks Emperour could not but honour him though his enemie for his valour and prowesse and marvelling he could be commanded by Scanderbeg whose state was by him chiefely upholden wherèas if he would follow Mahomet he should soon find entertainment to be preferred before Scanderbegs state or if Epirus its soveraigntie better pleased him he might easily be advanced thereto by joyning to Mahomet's great power Moses praises and favour with the Turk well pleased him But the hope of Epirus Kingdome moved him more than all Yet he made no semblance of liking or disliking which the wily messenger taking for a secret consent and departing promised shortly to returne to him againe After this many troubled thoughts arising in Moses c he in short time seemed to the wiser altogether metamorphosed Some asking the cause of the Messenger ' s comming he answered to receive intelligence from him concerning the good of the State which was holden for true The Messenger comming againe brought presents secretly beseeming the Great Turk with his message better 〈◊〉 Moses is reported to have received nought but the Treason it self answering he could not but accept the Turks favours and for the rest he should not thenceforth find him any great enemy commanding the Messenger no more to repaire to him for feare of suspition Scanderbeg comming into Dibria to see how things stood and to consult about besieging of Sfetigrade Moses to avert him therefrom told him he lately understood by a Messenger thence that the City was so well stored of all things that it were but lost labour to attempt it advising him rather to besiege Belgrade not on Danubius but in the confines of Epirus distant from Sfetigrade about 140 miles Which Scanderbeg resolving on and his Souldiers not so fit for besieging of Townes he sent two Embassadours to pray aide out of Italy from his old friend Alphonsus King of Naples with presents and letters declaring that his Souldiers knew not how to deale with Walls that the Italians had skill in that service that there were certaine Townes of their enemies in Epirus which eye-sore he long desired to take out of his sight c. Therefore Alphonsus should lend him Harquebusiers and Canoneers for of other Souldiers he had plenty That he did so lovingly embrace his former kindnesse c that he could sometimes wish him that fortune which as the common saying is proveth but getteth not friends that he might more certainely prove how much he was to him devoted Scanderbeg purposing also to use Moses his service in the siege he found many excuses to stay at Dibria alleadging it was to be thought the Turk would invade some part of Epirus to withdraw them from Belgrade that no part lay neerer and in more danger than Dibria that he could not do better service than to see to that Country's safety in which 〈◊〉 most of his living lay These Treasonable excuses were thought reasonable and he commended for his care authorized also to augment the Garrison upon occasion Scanderbeg finishing his preparation the Embassadours returned from Alphonsus with much more aide than was requested for he reckoned Epirus but 60 miles from his dominions the strongest Walls of Apulia as it afterwards appeared when the Turks took Otranto He wrote 〈◊〉 loving letters to Scanderbeg c and to make bold 〈◊〉 all things as his own merrily writing that his Italian Souldiers could fight better with women then men and walls therefore the Epirots were best take heed c. Scanderbeg now furnished encamped before Belgrade with 14000 good Souldiers which he soone so 〈◊〉 that the Turks promised to deliver it up if not relieved before 16 dayes truce During which time Scanderbeg encamped on a hill neere the Towne with 3000 〈◊〉 and 1000 foot appointing Musachius and Tanusius to remove into a Plain farther off for more fresh aire in that hot season also he ordered 25 Scouts to watch continually on the highest Mountain to give warning of the Enemies comming by making a fire Mahomet now ready to passe into Asia against the Emperour of Trapezond and grieving to lose Belgrade holding on his intended journey 〈◊〉 sent Sebalias a Bassa with 40000 Horse to relieve it promising him great rewards for Scanderbeg dead or alive This Bassa alwayes accounted more politique than forward came on so fast by great journeys that he prevented the same of his comming intercepting or corrupting the Watch on the Mountaines that no expected signe was given So that those in the plaines had not leisure to bridle their horses
bodies bringing in his Army at one of the Gates the Souldiers and Citizens being miserably slaughtered the Viceroy with his Wives and Children being taken and the stately Marble Pallace consumed with fire Techellis thought it was now no hard matter to take Prusa so to indanger the Turks whole Empire in Asia wherefore appointing when to set forward he prepared if he delayed not all necessaries for its taking being neither strongly walled nor garrisoned But a new Army being shipt over Hellespont into Asia he changed his purpose for Ba jazet had now sent Alis Bassa over with his European Army who though an Eunuch yet comparable in valour with the greatest Captains who with the choisest Horsemen and 7000 Janizaries passing into Phrygia sent to all Governours of the Turks Provinces in Asia speedily to meet him with their forces in Galatia Techellis now thought best to depart out of Pontus to re ire more safely lest he should be enclosed c. Wherefore calling together his Captains to consult it was thought madness or extream necessity to joyn battel with an enemy better knowing the Countrey than he and farre exceeding him in number and expertness of Souldiers So trussing up his prey he speedily returned thorow Galatia but the Bassa having almost daily intelligence thereof and of his way passing Sangarius came and encamped between Cutaie and Ancyra supposing it the enemie's passage Where resting and advertised Techellis had gone another way he after five dayes march overtook the enemie's wearied or wounded straglers putting them to the Sword Techellis causing Cartagoses carried along with him in chains to be impaled on a sharp stake fastned in the ground by the high way side but Alis nothing dismayed with his horrible death held on his and exhorted his Souldiers patiently to endure and strain themselves to take revenge of those rebellious robbers who destroying the Countrey spared not the Turks very Children nor Temples comming next day into Ancyra's plains to whom Achomates came with 10000 Souldiers Alis grieved that he could not overtake them with his whole Army leaving his Foot with Achomates followed them on the spur with 8000 Horse and overtaking their rears at Mount Olyga nigh Ancyra he hotly skirmished with them Techellis perceiving he should have to do onely with Horsemen and that in a place of advantage valiantly received the Turks impression at first repulsing them with their long Pikes and Arrows but Alis sending in a thousand Carbines who in order shot thick on the enemy many were slain and more wounded and their Ranks somewhat disordered so that the Horse breaking in overthrew with great slaughter Techellis his vauntguard Chasan himself being slain Techellis set in order a new battel of his readiest and best armed opposing them against the Horse commanding them by degrees to retire to the Mountain hoping the Turks finding the disadvantage of the place would leave assailing them so hardly but the Bassa exhorting them to urge the Victory c. himself with a Troop of his best Horse to animate the rest brake thorow the enemies battel which he attempting the second time was enclosed and slain The Turks now dismayed fought but faintly and at last fled Techellis his Souldiers having now thrust forward and with a terrible noyse crying Victory put them to flight who notwithstanding having lost many of his best Souldiers and the rest sore wearied refreshed them on the Mountain Oliga whence he marched to Tascia his old dwelling place thence to the City Celenis now Maras then the seat of King Aladeules Bajazet not long after sent Jonuses Bassa born in Epirus in Alis his stead who receiving the Army from Achomates came in few dayes to the City Tascia where burning and destroying the Countrey he encamped at Antitaurus's Foot he had above 40000 well appointed Techellis terrified nor lately receiving ayd from Hysmael and wanting great Artillery determined to keep the rough Mountain and thick Woods hoping for ayd from Hysmael and to take the Turks at some advantage who oft fetching a compasse by the easie rising of the Hills came to skirmish and Techellis his men sallying out of those places valiantly assailed the Turks at length the Turks perceiving two wayes to bring up their Army to the Mountain's top the Bassa caused the Janizaries to march up one way and the rest by the other who softly climbing up defended themselves what they could with their Targets for the enemy cast down on them great stones and shot without number But the Turks Field-pieces drave them from their standings the harquebuziers shrouding under the Targetiers thickly delivered their shot at whose approach Techellis retired farther off into higher Mountains and rougher Woods and next night he with great silence fled over the Mountains into Armania of the Persian Kingdom which when the Bassa by some wounded Souldiers taken by his Scouts when it was day-light understood he chafed that he had not presently beset the Wood and sending his Horse-men in vain to pursue them they brought back some few straglers to the Bassa Jonuses straitly inquiring thorow all Cities for those who had professed the Persian Religion put those who had born Arms to death with the greatest torments burning the rest in their fore-heads with a hot Iron whom with the Kinsfolks and friends of the executed or fled he transported and dispersed in Europe fearing a new Rebellion if Techellis should return with new forces but here ended this dangerous rebellion wherein all or most of the Turks Dominions in Asia might have been surprised if Hysmael had thorowly prosecuted the opportunity Thechellis his followers fleeing into Persia and spoiling by the way a Caravan of Merchants laden with Silks c. the Captains comming to Tauris were executed and Techellis burnt alive Next year 1509. Septemb. 14th through a great and terrible Earth-quake in Constantinople and thereabouts most of the Walls with many stately publique and private Buildings were overthrown and 13000 people slain so that the people generally lay in the Fields yea Bajazet very aged and gowty removed to Hadrianople but not safe there he lay abroad in his Tent. It lasted 28 dayes or a moneth with very little intermission accounted ominous as shortly appeared to the Othoman Family Then by a great plague the City was mostly unpeopled but it being asswaged Bajazet by Commissions took up 80000 Workmen who working at once in four moneths repaired Constantinople's ruines Bajazet had eight Sons and six Daughters Men and Women the Sons all Governours of Provinces yet Utrius a Genoway who lived long in Bajazets Court mentions but six Sciemscia for his towardlinesse deerly beloved of his Father the eldest died before him Alemscia also died whereof Bajazet advertised by white Characters in black Paper their way of writing heavy newes he casting away all tokens of Honour made a generall mourning in the Court and throughout Constantinople for three dayes all shops being shut up c making for some space solemne
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
worthy Chiefetain in taking Warre in hand Blessed be Mahomet thrice and four times blessed is this Empire c. with such a Prince which manner of proceeding if we would alwayes follow we should soon subdue as the Rhodes so all Kingdoms in Christendom Yet besides this mine age and experience exhorts you by gifts and all other meanes to corrupt if possible the very chief Citizens thereby to enter into their most secret Councels and that it may be wrought I. as one desiring peace will induce the Great Master to send some honourable Embassage which if once brought unto let me alone with the rest Solyman pleased above others with the old Fox his Counsel charged him speedily to prove what he could do the other to prepare the greatest Land and Sea-forces therefore it could not be kept so secret but Febr. the 4th the Rhodians had newes of it which daily increasing Villerius lent a Christian spie who could speak the Turkish Language to Constantinople who secretly informed him The Turks were preparing a great Fleet and mighty Army with a great deal of battering Artillery but whether for Italy Rhodes Cyprus or Corcyra was not known whilest every one thought 't was against any one rather than himself certain notice was given the Rhodians that the Turks diligently kept strict Watch and Ward along all their Sea-ports thereabouts otherwise than before which seemed to foreshew somewhat else than defence of their frontiers wherefore Villerius with all diligence provided great store of Victual Armour Weapons and all necessaries for defence The new Walls and Avergne fortress begun in Caractus's time was laboriously set about by Basilius an Engineer to Charls the 5th every one putting to his helping hand a Messenger the while coming from Pyrrhus Bassa the cunning fellow delivering his Field-Message by the way painted 〈◊〉 Solyman's courreous nature greatly also commending Pyrrhus and delivering Letters from both to this purport Solyman by God's Grace King of Kings c. to Villerius Lillidamus Great Master c. I Am certainly informed my Letters are delivered thee which thou rightly understanding pleaseth me beyond expression Trust to it I am not content with the 〈◊〉 at Belgrade hoping for another nay assuring my self which I will not hide from thee whom I am always mindful of Pyrrhus great Councellor c. To Villerius Lilladamus Great Master c. THy Letters more in meaning than Character I have delivered to our mighty Emperour but I would not suffer the bearer 〈◊〉 come into his presence lest too much offended with so base a Messenger henceforth send him men of worth years and discretion with whom if he please he may confer and conclude of publique matters which to do it shall not repent thee nor me of my counsel The Messengers brings Letters also from our Emperour how to answer ye are admonished These Letters being openly read such as wished for peace commended Pirrhus's Counsel as being old and greatly experienced more desiring his Countries quiet than theirs wishing to order that by wisdom which the young Prince sought for by Warre fearing the common chance of Warre c. Whereupon Raymund March a Knight a Spaniard Muster 〈◊〉 eloquent couragious and skilful in the Turks Language was appointed to go Embassador Many contrarily suspecting deceit said 〈◊〉 good to beware asking To what end for Should we proclaim War say they against the mighty Tyrant writing all peace or Should we intreat for peace no Warre as yet proclaimed c. Besides with what security or face can he go unrequested by the Emperour who having him in his power shall with cruel torture force him to discover our secrets c. The Messenger 's diligent enquiry of the state of things confirmed this opinion who was sent back with one private Souldier to carry Villerins's Letters to the Turk Villerius c. to the Turk THat thou art mindful of me grieveth me not I also minde thee Thou as not content hopest for another Victory nay assurest thy self thereof before the attempt Beware c. mens expectations never deceive them more than in Warre Villerius to Pyrrhus the Bassa I Have considered thy Letters with thy Messengers behaviour As I contemn not thy counsel so will I not follow it whilest my men do spoil thy Masters Countries and Ports which I bear withall for injuries they sustained by Turkish Pirates but I will call them home and send Embassadors thou first sending me safe conduct under thy Masters great Seal But these were not delivered for the Turk being come into the main posted on Horseback to Constantinople leaving the other behinde him who returning and telling what he heard and saw they despaired of peace and Villerius sent to hire Cretensians he was also advertised from Naxos Isle the Turks were ready to pu t to Sea at first of the New-Moon which they observe in the beginning of all great actions Merchants also coming to the Rhodes with Corn from Euboea brought the same newes of 〈◊〉 who being the Turks Tributaries by his command under that colour noted what was done in the City Villerius likewise sent divers Gallies to learn of the enemies doings Lupus a Knight and a Captain took a great Turkish Ship laden with Corn bringing her home but 〈◊〉 another Captain suffering his men to straggle into an Island his Ship in harbour was by a Turkish Pirate taken About which time the Turks making great fires by night signifying they desired some parley a Knight was sent with a Galley to the Main to see the matter Xaycus a pay-master skilful at Sea and civil affaires beloved of Turkish Merchants whose Language he had learned being joyned with him drawing nigh the Merchants were making merry on the Main with such Merchandize as they used to exchange with the Rhodians for Woollen-Cloth they gaged their faith for each others safety but being requested to come ashore till a familiar of his was sent for not far off he said not so except a pledge were delivered on Ship-board These perfidious laughing sent their pledge and Merchandize abroad Xaycus going ashore and embracing the Merchants was upon a sign given beset and taken and conveighed post to Constantinople where he was with most exquisite torments forced to confess what they desired Then was their wisdom commended who occasioned the Decree for sending the Embassador to be revoked The Turks Hostage was found to be a Countrey fellow well apparelled to deceive the Rhodians who answered to all things demanded according to his knowledge as that the Turks were greatly preparing on Caria and Lycia's Coasts by Sea taking up there many Souldiers for defence of Syria's frontiers against the Persians Solyman doing this to put the Rhodians out of suspition of invasion but Villerius perceiving by many circumstances chiefly by that of Xaycus that the Rhodes was that longed after proclaimed a Cessation from all businesses till all things for defence of the City were accomplished A general Muster being taken and 5000 able
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
God had given Grace rightly to consider these things and striving against the Vanities of this world and to embrace an upright Life had surely a place prepared in Heaven where they should at length enjoy life and 〈◊〉 eternal This answer very much satisfied his troubled mind foreseeing as it were his end approaching and so hastening towards his Father pitched his Tents in the open field not far off from his Camp But this his hasty coming the more encreased the 〈◊〉 Rustan craftily encreasing the same For he caused the Janizaries and chief men to go meet Mustapha as if for Honours-sake and the while with troubled countenance came in haste to Solyman falsly telling him that almost all the best Souldiers of the Army were without leave gone to meet him he fearing what would ensue Whereat he became pale for fear and going out of his Tent finding them gone he easily believed all to be true Mustapha also the 3d. day before his setting forward falling asleep in the evening seemed to see Mahomet in bright Apparel to lead him by the Hand into a most pleasant place with most glorious Pallaces and delicate Gardens and pointing to every thing with his finger to say Here they rest for ever who have led an upright and godly life c. Then on tother side to have shewn him 2 great and swift Rivers one boyling with water blacker than pitch and in them numbers of men tumbling some up and some down crying horribly for mercy saying There are all punished who have been malicious workers of iniquity the chief being great men of the world He awaking asked his Doctor what it might signifie who musing a great while full of grief answered This Vision was to be feared as 〈◊〉 the extream peril of his life and therefore requested him to have great care of Life and Honour but he stoutly replyed Shall I suffer my self to be terrified and overcome with childish and vain fear Why rather haste I not c. and the more boldly because I know I have alwayes reverenced his Majesty never turning eyes or foot against his Royal-Seat much lesse affecting his Empire except God had called him to a better Life nor then without the general choice of the Army that I might without murder bloud and tyrannie well and justly reign and in love and peace inviolate live with my brethren c. So he came as was said to the Camp all in white in token of Innocency and wrote Letters as the Turks superstitiously do when going to any dangerous place and putting them in his bosom came with a few trusty followers with great reverence towards his Fathers Tent to kiss his Hand and remembring his dagger girt about him entred not till he had put it off being come into the inner-Rooms he was sutably received by Solymans Eunuch's but seeing but one seat he perplexed stood a while musing then asking Where his Father was who answered He should by and by see him and looking aside he saw 7 Mutes strong men bereft of speech whom the Turks hath alway ready for the more secret execution of their Butchery coming toward him saying no more but Lo my death and arising was about to flee but he was caught hold of by the Eunuchs and Mutes and being drawn to the appointed place they cast a Bow-string about his neck he striving and requesting to speak but 2 words first to his Father All which the Murderer heard and saw by a Travers on tother side saying to the Villains with a most terrible Voyce Will ye never dispatch what I bid you will ye never make an end of this Traitour for whom I have not rested one night this ten years in quiet Whereupon they threw the poor Innocent on the ground and withthe Eunuchs help drawing the knotted string both wayes strangled him he doing the like to his Son shortly after But presently commanding his Bassa to be apprehended and beheaded in his presence Then sending for 〈◊〉 the crooked bid him in sporting-wise go meet his Brother Mustapha which he ignorant hasted to do as glad of his coming but when he came to the place where his brother lay dead on the ground he was beyond measure tormented Solyman sent to him offering him all Mustapha's wealth with his Government but Tzihanger calling his Father ungodly Caint and Traitour and most highly commending Mustapha said Himself would provide that none should so shamefully triumph over a poor crooked wretch stabbing himself with his dagger and shortly dying Whereat the old Tyger exceedingly grieved His Body being Honourably buried at Pera. He forthwith commanded all Mustapha's riches to be brought into his Tent which the Souldiers hoping for hasted to perform but Mustapha's Souldiers not knowing what was become of him 〈◊〉 such a multitude thrust into their Camp without order notably repulsed them not without much bloud-shed The rest of the Kings Souldiers hearing the stir ran to help their fellows so that in short time 2000 were slain and more wounded neither had the broil so ended had not Achomat Bassa a grave and experienced Captain of no small Authority kept back the Janizaries and likewise appeased the rage of Mustapha's Souldiers by gentle and mild words and courteous perswasions whereby they were so mollified that they suffered all that was in Mustapha's Tent to be carried into Solyman's but when Mustapha's death was blown about the Camp another worse tumult arose They in a rage breaking into Solymans Pavilion with drawn swords which so frighted him that he was with extream peril about to flee 〈◊〉 being holden by his Friends and making a Vertue of Necessity he went forth of his Tent but with a pale countenance speaking unto them What broil is this c. What means your fierce and angry looks know ye not your Soveraign Have ye resolved to stain your own and Ancestours invincible Honour with the bloud of your Lord and Emperour They boldly answed He was the man whom they had long before chosen but they had got and preserved for him a large and mighty Empire that he should govern them virtuousty and not lay his bloudy hands on every just man c. and that they came thither armed justly to revenge the death of guiltless Mustapha for which he had no just cause to be angry protesting they would never lay down weapons till the Accuser of him for treason appeared commencing his accusation judicially upon pain of the like punishment if he 〈◊〉 in proof The late hainous fact made every man the while to shed tears so that Solyman seemed to be sorry for his murder promising the Souldiers whatever they required yet lest he should slip away and deceive them of what he had promised they kept most diligent watch and ward Wherefore to appease them he deprived Rustan Bassa of all Honours and of his Seal which he delivered to Achomates But Rustan now in no safety in his own tents secretly asked Achomates what course best to take in so
the Childs neck it swiled on him and lifting it self up as it could offered to embrace his neck and kisse him whereat the stony-hearted man fell down in a swound lay for dead The Eunuch standing without the Chamber and marvelling at his long stay goes in where finding the Ruffian on the ground strangled the guiltlesse child himself So long as it was uncertain what success Bajazets attempts would have Solyman spared the Infant lest upon his good hap he might seem to strive against the will of God but his Father being dead and his quarrel by the ill success condemned as it were by the Sentence of the Almighty he though not good to suffer him longer to live lest of an ill Bird might come an ill Chick for the Turks judge all to be well or ill done by the good or bad success though brought to passe or endeavoured by never so bad or good means as appeared by a Chiaus in his talk with the Author of this History who justified Solyman's Father but exclaimed against Bajazet This Year 1558. the Emperours Charls 5th who had 2 years before delivered all his Haereditary Dominions to his son Philip on Febr. 24. the day of his birth by his Embassadours resigned the Empire to his brother Ferdinand requesting the Electours to confirm him therein which they did March 13. following so as a private man in a solitary life whereto he had certain years before retired himself He died Sept. 21 after living 58. and raigning 39 years About which time also died Mary Queen of Hungarie and Eleanor the French Queen his Sisters The Knights of Malta had at length so prevailed with the Pope and King of Spain for recovery of Tripolis in Barbary and the Island Zerbi betwixt Tripolis and Tunis then also surprized by the Turks whence they much troubled the Christians that the King made ready a great Fleet in Septemb. 1559. unto which the Pope Duke of Florence the said Knights and others joyned their Forces there being 100 Galleys and ships met together in Sicily Gonzaga being General but whilst they wintred in the Haven of Marza-Moxet in Malta many Souldiers died Spring being come the Captains consulted whether first to set upon Tripolis or Zerbi otherwise Mening The Knights thought best to besiege Tripolis speedily before Dragut should come to furnish it Others rather first to invade Zerbi Island where the Army might be relieved with plenty and whence they might in danger safely retire thence go to Tripolis as time should serve Which most agreeing to in Feb. 1560. they sailed to Zerbi Dragut the while being come to Tripolis with 800 Janizaries had also notably sortified the City certifying Solyman of the Christians Fleets arrival who at their first landing on Zerbi were encounted by the Moors whom they repulsed and landed at pleasure It is not far from the main no River in it but boggs ond Marshes and somewhat Hilly in the middle About 30000 men inhabited it dwelling in low Cottages yet is the Island reasonable fertile The Christians sent for Carvanus thither a poor King from whom Dragut had taken it to use his Counsel going with 8000 to besiege the strongest Castle in the Island they lighted on 10000 Moors which lay in ambush in a Wood 700 of whom being slain in skirmish by the Spaniards who went foremost the rest fled so laying hard siege to the Castle the Captain fled secretly with his Turks leaving it for the Moores to defend who to depart in safety yielded the Castle three Spanish Companies being there left Caravanus the Moor-King with the King of Tunis's Sonne came the while to the Camp sitting on the ground and wisely discoursing with the Generall how the Turks were to be removed out of Africk but suddenly a Pinnace brought newes that Piall the Turk's Admirall was coming with 85 Galleys more repairing to him daily with a number of the Turk's best and most approved Souldiers for the Turks had a great opinion of the valour of the Spaniards they were doubtful also of the long journey so many of them before setting forth making their wills so that all Constantinople was in a confused fear The Christians were not a little troubled hereat yet they new fortified the Castle agreeing with the chief Moore in the Island who had set up the King of Spain's Ensigns instead of Draguts to pay yearly tribute to the King as before to Dragut 6000 Crowns 1 Cammell 4 Ostriches 4 Sparrow-Hawks and 4 blew Faulcons But May 9th the Master of Malta gave those at Zerbi to understand that the Turk's Fleet was even at hand advising them to get them to some more safe place or come to him for fear of being by so great a power oppressed whereupon Auria the Admirall requested the Generall presently to come aboard but he for all that stayed at the Castle where they had built four strong Bulwarks not yet all perfectly finished but whilest he is thus busie next day descrying the Turks from far he hasted to be gone with the Admiral and was twice by a contrary wind driven again into the Haven so that with much adoe they got into the Castle for the wind brought the Turks so fast on that the Christians dismayed knew not well which way to turn but most of the Ships and 14 Gallies were gone the night before and the Master of Malta had called home his in April of the rest some few Galleys escaped others ran aground 10 whereof were taken by the Turks and the rest that were left though they awhile did what they might to save themselves The night following the Viceroy and Admiral secretly got away to Malta Auria gathered together the remainder of the dispersed Fleer having lost 17 Galleys and a good part of the Ships Don de Sandes was left as General in the Castle with 5000 Foot some Germans and Italians but most Spaniards besides 1000 no Souldiers The Turks besieging it May 17. were notably encountred and repulsed in their assaults Dragut came at length to the siege encreasing the battery with 15 great Pieces The Christians also with 40 great Pieces slew a number of Turks and Moores and sallying out fought with them slaying and wounding many Thus the siege continued three moneths but in the Castle was but one great Cistern which though yielding some store of water yet was not enough to suffice so great a multitude in that hot Clymate and season but was sparingly measured our to the Souldiers as far as it would go which some augmented by distilling Sea-water mingling it with their allowance till they had spent all their Wood. Many half dead lying on the ground gaping and crying water water into whose mouthes if any one powred a little they as revived would sit up till for thirst they fell down again at length giving up the Ghost The Governour considering the great extremity attempted with Doude Leyva the Neopolitan Admiral and Bellingerius the Sicilian Admiral and others to escape by
Mustapha planted 64 great pieces 4 being exceeding great Basilisks wherewith he without ceasing battered the City in 5 places chiefly the wall between the Haven and the Gate leading to Amathus and with great Morter-pieces cast up huge stones which from on high brake down Houses falling oft-times into the bottom of their Cellars to their great terrour Then he assaulted the City the Defendants both valiantly repulsing the Turks and furiously sallying out slew and wounded many much disturbing their Fortifications and abating their courage they so sent also their great shot into the thickest of them that in few dayes 30000 were lost and The Turks Captains wondring at their valour began to despair of 〈◊〉 the City The Christians the while made up their breaches with earth baskets wool-sacks c. not sparing their Houshold-stuffe their greatest want feared was of powder wherefore they thought best to shoot more seldom but the Turks still drawing nearer raising Mounts higher than the walls filled up the ditch and making walls on either side of the broken stones to defend the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 gave a fresh assault not only with missive Weapons but fighting hand to hand in the breach which they did daily for 6 hours and though they we e divided into many parts and fresh men still succeeded the weary yet the Defendants requesting for the most 〈◊〉 places thence couragiously repulsed them with 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 yet the enemy by often 〈◊〉 in the night also kept the Christians in continual suspence of an assault and day appearing with fresh men desperately assailed them almost spent for lack of 〈◊〉 There grew in the Island great plenty of wood much of the nature of the Fir-tree yet in this differing that in burning it cast such a noysome smell as was not well to be endured The Turks brought a great quantity hereof to the Gate Limosina which fired could not be quenched though the Defendants cast whole Tunns of water at once into it but terribly burning for four dayes the heat and smell so troubled them that ever and anon forsaking the Wall the enemy was like to have leave to enter Bragadine the Governour ceased not going about from place to place encouraging the Italians from divers motives praising also the fidelity and courage of the Greeks who could never be removed from the Venetians or submit to the Turks Government perswading them with the same resolution to defend their own City that they saw in the Venetian Souldiers fighting for them c. Baleonius also General of the Garrison Souldiers by being present in every skirmish by careful foresight encouraging his men appeared to be a worthy Commander and valiant Souldier The Women also brought meat and Weapons to the Defendants also stones beds chests c. to make up the Breaches but Victuals beginning to wax scant 8000 of the Vulgar were turned forth who safely passed thorow the Turks Army to seek their living in the Countrey Force not prevailing the Turks undermined the City in 4 places but the Defendants by sundry means discovered their works frustrating them by 〈◊〉 yet in so great a stir all things could not be discovered so that while they were defending the Walls a Mine not perceived was suddenly blown up nigh the Haven-Tower overthrowing much of the wall with most horrible noise the Turks with a horrible 〈◊〉 mounting the wall and setting up their Ensigns in the Breach Count Peter commanding there being now not able to defend the same which Martinengus perceiving came speedily from his own station The fight was there most terrible hope of entring on the one side desperation on the other encouraging their minds In the mean time Andrew Bragadine with some great Pieces out of the Castle slew a number of the Turks as they were coming to the Breach Baleonius hearing of the danger came in haste with a Company of couragious Souldiers and cheering them up thrust himself with the foremost into the face of the Breach both appointing what was to be done and encouraging his Souldiers and slaying many himself tumbled a Turks Ensign into the Ditch having slain its bearer whereat others encouraged made a notable Battel the Turks retiring leaving 4000 slain in the Town-ditch with 14 Ensigns brought into the City above 100 Christians were slain among whom were 4 Captains Yet they in the City took small rest for the Turks continual great shot on June 8. 5000 such shot being sent into the City one of the round Bulwarks being so shaken that a part of it's Front was fallen down and another part stood leaning the Christians seeing it was not without danger to be defended undermined that Bulwark placing some barrels of Gunpowder in the Mine The Turks coming to assault it they retired as if for fear after a small resistance to draw them the faster on who coming to the place the Mine being fired blew up the Bulwark with all that stood thereon about 600 Turks perished at this assault 2 being of great note but about 100 Christians perished also by the hasty firing thereof some being of great account The Turks enflamed with their great losses being more enraged by the speeches and perswasion of Mustapha asking them what place was impregnable for the Turks began a more terrible siege than ever and speedily making and blowing up 3 great Mines overthrew a great part of the Wall with the Castle the notable defence of the Haven then with all their force oft assailing the City night and day that part also on the sea being assailed by them in the Galleys also so that the poor Christians spent with wounds labour and watching and brought to small number held out that tempest rather with courage than strength the enemies Army encreasing daily in hope of the like spoil as at Nicosia The Captains seeing there was not above 300 sound men left but 7 Barrels of powder want of all things daily encreasing and the relief from Venice staying at Creet because the Turks Galleys laying before Famagusta nothing could safely be brought thither began to quaile in courage which being ere long perceived by the Citizens they flocked to the Governour with abundance of tears beseeching him to take compassion on them their wives and children a people alwayes so well deserving of the Venetian State 〈◊〉 open their own weakness enemies encreasing strength so that they must needs soon all perish with the sword if the City were by force taken Wherefore they besought him not to refuse any conditions how hard soever Bragadine perswaded them to be of good cheer for that he would so provide for them that they should 〈◊〉 repent of their fidelity to the Venetian State and calling a general Councel after a little debate they all agreed to yield only Baleonius at first dissented as doubtful of the Turk's Faith but afterwards yielded to the rest So a Truce being taken to parley in and mutual Hostages given for the time neither Dart or Arrow was sent from either side
accordingly who entring into the place of Counsel desired of Mahomet to know his pleasure who caused the counterfit Command to be read Mustapha giving an attentive eare but when the rest began to sit down 〈◊〉 to the Turks manner who use alwayes to stand up till any Command from the Emperour be fully read the Georgian took his leave promising to be ever ready to perform whatsoever the King should command and so being about to depart the great Usher plucking him by the sleeve would have forced him to have sit down indeed that the Lievtenant with those of Mahamets chief band that stood about him might cut off his head Mustapha crying out with his Sword having wrought the Role from his pate with his left hand at one blow cleft the 〈◊〉 head down to his very stomach to the great astonishment of all there present then 〈◊〉 at the head of he 〈◊〉 of Charemit it being defended with the roles of the Turbant the stroke slipt down by his care which it carried quite away with a peece of the 〈◊〉 and a peece of the flesh of his cheek eagerly assailing Mahomet himself whom risen up in the 〈◊〉 he wounded with five mortall wounds which yet were afterwards cunningly healed when they had brought him even to deaths door upon the rushing in of the Georgians and the fear that Mustapha had struck into the Turks every man speedily departed towards Chars whither also was brought the two wounded Bassaes and the rest that were ill handled and greatly scared Of all this treachery Mustapha sent present word to Amurath as much grieved at the false suspicion conceived 〈◊〉 him and so wrought that 〈◊〉 sent him both Cloth of Gold and a Battle-Axe all guilt Mahamet on the other side wrote at large of all his misfortunes and aggravated to the King both the treachery of Mustapha and the slender security of those wayes and Countries When Amurath understood of these calamities and losses and the apparent danger of the Fort of Teflis then like to be abandoned he in a rage rated exceedingly the Bassaes of his Court reproving their lewd Counsel and recounting his losses from time to time as if through their defaults especially of Sinan who like an improvident fool he said would needs leave his Army and like a King sit idle at Constantinople c. who when Mustapha was General most vainly boasted with the like power to fetch the Persian King out of Casbin in bonds to Amurath but had indeed performed nothing worth remembrance Sinan peremptorily answered that seeing he would needs make choyce of Mahamet Bassa an unfit man to convey this year's Succours to Teflis he was to blame none but himself As for his coming to Constantinople it was long before thought most needful both that the matter of peace might come to some good passe and if not then he had to talk with him how to compass his Enemies overthrow which yet he had no fit time to declare but was now ready to reveal if it were his pleasure Amurath was wonderfully grieved with so arrogant a reproof from a slave of his own yet he disembled his discontentment against him commanding him to disclose those his devices who propounded 〈◊〉 not to proceed in this Warre as they had done with 〈◊〉 to hold the Enemies Countries their Treasures 〈◊〉 not able to maintain so many and great Garrisons 〈◊〉 for Amurath to go in person himself and so aganst so mighty a King by opposing the person of a King the Persians would easily come to an agreement or if ot he might then proceed in his Warres and obtain 〈◊〉 glorious Conquest the effeminate King now concived an envious affection against him and a further 〈◊〉 fostered by great Ladies especially his Mother 〈◊〉 Sinan had counselled him to go in person onely 〈◊〉 meanes for the Prince his Sonne to make him 〈◊〉 Sinan and the Prince carrying great 〈◊〉 towards each other wherefore depriving him ofall charge he presently banished him to Demotica of 〈◊〉 whence he by most humble supplication obtained terward to be removed to Marmara Siaus Bassa who married Amurath's 〈◊〉 being preferred to the Visiership a personable and 〈◊〉 Hungarian but the greatest seller of Justice 〈◊〉 preferments yet a great friend to peace with the Chrians which Sinan had alwayes maligned The Persian Captains the while 〈◊〉 spoils and Enemies Ensigns were with great joy reived in Persia which was redoubled when the 〈◊〉 betwixt Mahomet and Mustapha was reported wereby every one thought the next years dangerous attents of the Turks into Persia which were feared migl be hindered whereupon the Persian King determid to march toward Heri against Abas Meriz hisonne then with him in disgrace being earnestly solicid thereto by his elder Sonne especially by Salmas his Visier so committing his defence of that side of his Kingdom to Emer Chan Governour of Tauris Himself with his Army arrived at length at Salvar which principal City he taking by force beheaded the Governour thereof though he alledged a thousand excuses and objected as many accusations against seditious Salmas and having put to death some great ones accused by the Visier as confederates in his Sonnes rebellion he arrived at last at the City of Heri very strong by situation a good Wall and deep Channels of water conveighed into it by Tamerlain there was also therein many valiant Captains Enemies to Miriz Salmas The King approaching the City left in himself many troubled passions grieving to think he should beget so graceless a Sonne and to remember the blood of his Subjects spilt upon so strange an occasion yet being more and more solicited by Salmas he attempted to understand the mind of his Sonne and if possible to get him into his hands but Abas in the mean time wrote divers Letters to his Father and Brother beseeching them to make known unto him the occasion of this their stir for if desire of rule had moved them to seek his deprivation he was alwayes ready to spend and be spent in their service acknowledging his Father to be his good Father and King but if they were induced hereto for revenging some trespasses committed by him against the Crown of Persia he was most ready to submit to any amends and yield up all the more fully to satisfie their minds with twice and thrice reading over were these affectionate Letters considered and at last both Father and Brother determined to attempt the reducing the young mans mind to some good passe whereupon they wrote back 〈◊〉 him that his causing himself to be called King of Persia and the not sending them so much as one Captain to ayd them against the Turks had onely induced them hereunto Abas glad when he understood his accusations wrote back unto them if they would faithfully promise safely to receive his Embassadors he would send them so clear information touching those accusations that they should clearly perceive he had alwayes desired and laboured the contrary and would
he had already done in Persia having as he boasted by his Servants there performed more than his Predecessors could do in person wherefore he resolved to turn his forces against the Christian Emperour for first it grieved him to see the honour of the House of Austria and that he durst make head against him besides it would be farre lesse difficult to make Warre upon a Countrey so near him then upon Persia where his Armies were still to be led through his own Countries whence they were to be at all times plentifully relieved Sinan confirming him also in this Opinion who having vainly perswaded him to Warre against the Venetians now furthered this hoping thereby to recover his credit impaired by the little he did in 〈◊〉 as also by the discord betwixt him and Ferat commonly called the black Serpent as also to increase his Wealth who was shortly after made Generall by Amurath for those Warres but above all Hassan Bassa of Bosna furthered this matter in hope to gain great Riches with the greatest honours of the Field as he was vainly perswaded by his bold Prophets wherefore he daily certified Amurath of the burnings spoylings and robbings of the Uschocci and other the arch-Dukes Subjects upon his Frontiers inciting him to begin his Warre in Croatia and continue the same either against the Emperour or Venetians or that way to break into Italy as had sometimes before been done by which his importunity he got leave to begin those stirs in the Frontiers of the Empire yet unto this leave was this condition annexed that he should not seem to do it by Amurath's Command but of himself under colour to restrain the Uschocci who both by Land 〈◊〉 Sea as he pretended spoyled both the Christians and Turks whom the Princes of Austria had small care to chasten neither was it any great matter for Hassan so to do for disturbing of the peace the Turks Leagues with their Neighbours being seldom so but that their Souldiers in Garrisons and adventurers by Sea might to keep themselves doing upon a Military insolency as they terme it now then make incursions for booty by Sea and Land so that the Venetians wronged at Sea by their Embassadors complained at Constantinople of injuries done them by Turkish Pirates 〈◊〉 to have them called home and justice done upon them The Emperour also seeing many things both this year one thousand five hundred ninety one and the next attempted by Hassan in Croatia and the other Turks in Hungary by his Embassador then laying at Constantinople complained of these outrages desiring to know whether they were done by Amuraths consent and knowledge if not then that order may be taken for restraining thereof which was accordingly done for a while Amurath making shew as if the League of eight years should not on his part be in any wise infringed at which time the Persian King's sonne dyed in the Turks Court where he lay in Hostage whose dead body Amurath honourably sent home to his Father with an Apology of a suspicion of some that 〈◊〉 should be the cause of his untimely death still urging withall the confirmation of the League which by the death of the Prince had like enough been broken whereof Amurath was the more desirous because perswaded to make Warres with the Emperour he hoped thereby to add the Reliques of Hungary to his Empire with a good part of the Territories of the House of Austria and so open a way into the heart of Germany wherefore he raised a strong Army putting a great Fleet of Gallies into the Achipelago for the safety of his Islands there So the Bassa of Bosna in 1592 entred Croatia with 50000 Men burning destroying and sparing nothing that came in his way and also besieged Wihitz the Metropolis of that Country strongly scituated as incompassed about with the River Una which he 〈◊〉 soare battered and twice assaulted was by the distressed Defendants yielded on Composition that the Germans in Garrison might depart with Bagg and 〈◊〉 and that such Citizens as would might still remain there without hurt in body or goods the Bassa faithfully and safely conveighed the 400 Souldiers into their own Territory but exercised afterwards all Turkish Tyranny upon the Citizens the Emperour upon this unexpected invasion sent the Lord Petzen to pray ayd of the German Princes against the common Enemy who largely promised their help first Ernestus Arch Duke of Austria his Brother with five thousand Souldiers came to Grâ—ys the chief City of Stiria to whom more daily repaired out of Carinthia the Turks Army the while daily increasing inclosed six thousand Foot and five hundred Horse of the Christians who had taken the Woods Mountains and strait-passages and so that few of them escaped with life amongst whom many valiant Captains and expert Souldiers were slain the Bassa to make his Victory more famous lading six Waggons with the Heads of the slain the Turks thus raging in Croatia brought a fear upon all Hungary and divers Provinces of the Empire whereupon the Emperour assembling the States of Silesia and Moldavia declared unto them the eminent danger perswading them to joyn their forces with the rest for repulsing the Enemy After long delay Ernest the Arch-Duke August the tenth came to the Emperour his Brother with the Embassador of Hungary and the seventh day after were called together the Embassadors of the Kingdoms and Provinces of the Empire thorowly debating How the Turks were to be resisted and from whence forces money c were to be raised for now longer delay did seem dangerous and the rather for that the Beglerbegge of Greece with 60000 select Souldiers was ere long expected for preventing of which so great and manifest dangers they sate daily at Prague yea even from morning to night for the Hungarians especially the Lord Nadasty instantly urged to have succours sent into Hungary for if the Turk should get into his hands the rest of the Towns and Castles there 't was to be feared lest he should soon after indanger all Germany whose strength the Turk lesse feared than the reliques of Hungary others were as careful of Croatia and Stiria as more proper to themselves the Enemy now there raging the Hungarians with the other distressed crying to the Emperour for help and he also calling upon the Princes of the Empire divers Assemblies were had in divers places and Embassadors sent to the Emperor from almost all the German Princes all was full of consultation but help came in slowly yet that which was was sent into Croatia to defend the Fortresses against the furious Enemy September the 18th the Turks on a sudden by night assaulted Toccay Castle in upper Hungary hoping to surprize it but finding it a more difficult matter then they imagined they departed attempting the lesser Comara which standing in a Marsh-ground was easily defended then also the Bassa of Buda entred the Christians Frontiers but upon viewing the strong Holds thereof finding nothing for
Rhegium 〈◊〉 rifled and burnt it but sayling thence 〈◊〉 in sight of Messana of Sicily landed some men who adventuring too far were by the people put to flight so they returning to Rhegium utterly razed what they before 〈◊〉 The while even in sight of the Garrison of 〈◊〉 they took a ship comming out of the East and 3 others from Apulia afterwards they changing a few shot with some Eastern galleys to no great purpose sayled along the Calabrian coast oft landing men who skirmishing with the Calabrians had sometime the better sometime the worse being again received 〈◊〉 their Galleys The Messanians gave speedy knowledge hereof to the Viceroy then at Palermo for his pleasure requesting his present ayd but he dallying off time they of themselves raised 500 Horse to be led by Ph. Cicala the Renegate Admirals Brother storing the City with all necessaries for a Siege certifying the Spanish King of all and of the Viceroy's negligence requesting speedy ayd against these Turkish terrours The Neopolitans put to sea 30 Galleys to whom the Pope Duke of Florence the Genowayes and Knights of Malta joyning theirs there was about 80 Galleys under Auria's conduct The Venetians also though in League with the Turks for more safety set forth about 100 Ships and Galleys under Foscarin their Admiral which Fleets sayling up and down freed Italy Sicily Dalmatia c. of a great fear 〈◊〉 having encouraged his Souldiers with great hope and large promises assaulted Rab Septemb. 23. the Sun 〈◊〉 scarce up furiously maintaining it till night but through the Defendants valour the Turks with loss retired yet was the assault renewed next day and that most desperate for two dayes 12000 Turks being slain the rest retiring into their Trenches Few dayes after the Turks by a Mine blew up a Bulwark of the Town whereby the Ditch was there somewhat filled the Turks with all their power next day striving to enter but were still notably repulsed with loss yet ceased not the Enemy his 〈◊〉 and assaults till he had gained two Bulwarks whence he might by the fallen rubbish have access to the Town to the great terrour of the Defendants Whereupon Count Hardeck who corruptéd by the Turk had often said The Town could not possibly long be defended now took occasion to consult with the other Captains divers being already framed to his purpose what to do for yielding up the Town and after a little consultation for fashion-sake resolved to send to Sinan sor a truce for a while for coming to some reasonable composition yet to excuse his doings he conceived a publike Instrument in writing in his and his Captains names that since 't was impossible longer to defend the town against such an enemy without new supplies instead of the 〈◊〉 which they had oft in vain requested they were necessitated to compound with the Enemy which they subscribed and sealed So a Truce being granted and Pledges mutually given it was agreed That the whole Garrison should with bag and baggage and 〈◊〉 displayed with a safe convoy be brought to Altenburg which though by Oath confirmed yet when the Count had September 29. delivered up the City and all were come forth himself and a few friends were conveyed to the appointed place but the rest were spoiled of all they had and hardly escaping with life came to Hochstrate and next day to Altenburg Rab even when it was given up was Victualled for a year and sufficiently furnished with all necessaries for defence Sinan glad of this Victory gave his Master speedy knowledge thereof of whom he was highly commended and afterwards bountifully rewarded for Amurath now hoped to devour Austria with the adjacent Provinces Sinan 〈◊〉 delay repaired and fortified the City enlarging the Ditches and filling the Cathedral with 〈◊〉 Whereon he planted store of great Ordnance speedily dispatching all things and the while sent the Tartars to summon Pappa which Castle and small Town the Christians next night setting on fire fled The 〈◊〉 leaving 4000 Janizaries and 2000 Horse in Garrison departed from Rab to Comara a strong town about 4 Miles from it which is enclosed on the East North and South with the two arms of Danubius all 〈◊〉 ways 〈◊〉 with his well appointed Fleet hardly besieged the Town giving divers assaults while the Beglerbeg of Greece by continuall Battery and Mines shook the walls and bulwarks by land but the Christians with no less courage defended themselves than they 〈◊〉 by the Turks assailed Matthias the Arch-Duke the while collecting again a good Army resolved to go and raise the siege from this City of such concernment to the Emperor so he came encamped Octob. 28. at N tria about 5 Miles off The Tartars were a little before departed purposing to return home yea the Turks weary of the siege and wanting Victualls began to shrink away Wheresore the Bassa upon the Christians approach forsook the City after three weeks hard besieging it and by a bridge of boats passed over Danubius to Dotis where next day he brake up his Army The arch-Duke coming to Comara diligently repaired the Breaches filled up the Mines made new Bulwarks and Rampiers in divers places leaving Lord Brun the Governour still who in defence thereof was grievously wounded in his right knee to whom Sinan in the late siege sending 5 Turks under colour of a parley but indeed to try if he were any way to be won to yield the City he having heard them out had 4 of their Heads struck off and set upon pikes upon a Bulwark but the 5th he sent back to tell the Bassa He was much deceived if in him he thought to find a Count Hardeck he wishing rather to die the Emperour 's faithfull servant in the bloud of the Turks than to betray his charge Count Hardeck generally suspected to have betrayed Rab to Sinan was sent for to Vienna and by the Emperour committed to prison and being accused of sundry things as that at first he suffered the Enemy to do many things which afterwards turned to great danger That he caused some Cannoniers to discharge some great pieces with powder onely and seeing one piece especially to do much harm he caused it to be removed hat he should oft say The Turks should be but one Town the richer if he won it c. The heaviest thing was the Testimony of one who being taken young and serving in Sinan's Chamber now was fled from the Turks declaring to Matthias in time of the Siege he but 3 dayes before by his Master's command had delivered 2 baggs full of Duckats to 2 Christians one having a notable scar in his face and afterwards known to have bin a servant to the Count. Upon this and the like proof he after many hearings in open Court where were 47 Nobles and great Capt. was condemned of Treason and adjudged to be hanged and to hang 3 dayes on the gallows and all his estate to be confiscate which rigour the Emperour mitigated by
having his right hand given to him in pawn of his Faith and his Head struck off upon a Scaffold at Vienna and so buried So June 10th following in the high street after the sentence read and he commending himself to Gods mercy on his knees with eyes covered and his right-hand covered with black both Head and Hand were so suddenly struck off that it could scarce be judged which was first done so being conveyed away in his Coach covered with black he was buried among his Ancestours The Tartars departing from Sinan's Camp purposed to have gone home thorow upper Hungary and by the borders of Transilvania and Moldavia 2 parties of whom being utterly defeated and cut off by Palfi the rest finding the passages hardly beset by the Prince of Transilvania and Vayuod of Valachia returned the same way they came and rifling and burning some Towns and Villages about Tockai passed the River and wintring in places about Rab lived on the spoil as far as Meinersdorf The Tartars at their first comming by order from Amurath stayed on the Borders of Transilvania either to have surprized that Country or to have thrust out Sigismund Bator the young Prince or sent him in bonds to Constantinople for it was reported that he weary of his heavy Tribute having bin divers times enhaunsed intended to revolt from the Turk and enter a confederacy with the Emperour which change some of the chief of Transilvania sought by all means to hinder and acquainting Amurath hereof and conspiring with the Tartars undertook the aforesaid matter wherefore they cunningly perswaded the Prince that Samosche the Polonian Chancellour lay on his own borders expecting his comming to consult with him of important matters counterfeiting Letters to that effect from the Chancellour to the Prince so that he suspecting no Treason put himself upon his way but he was advised by some suspitious friends not to go any further whose comming was not attended by the Polonians but the Tartars his Enemies who lay in wait for him at Hust The Prince astonied retiring to the strong Fort of Rehwere staying 14 dayes as for fear of the Tartars onely and the while gave notice to the Nobles and Governours his Friends of the eminent danger who repaired to him in Arms But the Traytors perswaded Bornemissa the Princes Generall that to fight with the Tartars was of no small danger Wherefore he should only shew himself near them as not unprovided for them So the Army was brought so nigh the Tartars that they might hear the noise of their Drumms and Trumpets Whereby the Tartars as by a Watch-word perceiving themselves discovered removed and breaking another way thorow Transilvania and so into Hungaria rifled and burnt 500 Villages slew all males above 12 years old carrying away the rest to the Turks Camp then at Rab. The Traitors the mean time conspired to set up Bator the Princes kinsman and with Amuraths favour to prefer him to the Government Wherefore Sigismund doubting wholly to trust his own Subjects wrote to the Rascians and other Confederates praying their ayd which he receiving appointed an assembly of all his States at Clasehburg every one to appear personally upon a great pain none absenting but Cardinall Bator and Stephen his Brother who as guilty were fled into Poland All thus met the Prince commanded the Gates to be shut watch to be diligently kept and none on pain of death to speak of imagined Treason politiquely also publishing in writing that the Germans had got a notable Victory over the Turks commanding Bon-fires and other signes of Joy to be made he prepared also a Banquet whereto he with others the chief Conspirators were invited who being at dinner he apprehended 14 committing them to prison executing 5 in the Market-place n xt morning He who had undertook to have slain the Prince after 3 or 4 light cuts in the neck being drawn in pieces with 4 Horses the other 4 were beheaded and left there as a Spectacle the rest being afterwards executed and Balthazor his Kinsman that should have been exalted strangled Then by a publike Edict he gave leave to all his Subjects of their own charge to take up Arms against the Turks and whatsoever they could take from them to have it to themselves whereby the Transilvanians encouraged armed themselves to the number of 40000. who being sworn to hold together against the Turks came first to Danubius where they lighted on some Turks ships laden with provision for the Camp Merchandize of all sorts and much Treasure of whom they took 7 but the 8th the Admirall escaped they took an exceeding rich booty slew many carrying back seven Turkish Ensignes to the Prince This prosperous beginning caused great joy in Transilvania Sinan is reported to say If this provision had come to him in safety he could more easily with that Treasure have bought Vienna than he had Rab. After this Victory the Prince besieged Temesware but hearing of the Tartars comming towards Transilvania upon their return he gave off to look to his own Country Ere long about December 22. a tumult of the Janizaries at Constantinople grew to such a height that a Bassa was slain with other great Ones and a son of Amurath's sore wounded and with much ado saved Upon conceit whereof Amurath fell into a grievousfit of the falling sicknesse vexed 3 dayes and 3 nights therewith so that the City was filled with heaviness and fear and the Courtiers even ready to think of a new Lord. This tumult many supposed was the cause of Amurath's death shortly ensuing whose grief malady daily encreased by ill news still brought him chiefly out of Transilvania where the Prince waiting on every occasion cut the Turks short in every place and took also this Month many of their strong holds He had then in field 3 Armies one under Ferens in the Country Lugaz nigh Temesware another under Horat on th' other side Danubius to intercept the Turks coming to Buda the 3d. under Cornoyse nigh Giula to whom came 1500 Horse out of upper Hungary Sigismund thus revolted from the Turk thought best betimes to enter a confederacy with those of Valachia and Moldavia who shortly after also cast off the servile yoke but chiefly with the Emperour Wherefore he sent his Embassadours who arrived at Prague Jan. 12. with 20 Waggons and 150 Horse where they were most honourably received and entertained and having audience after much grave consultation the Confederacy was fully concluded 1. That they should mutually proceed in their Wars begun and not enter any League with the Turk without the liking of each other and that in all conclusions of peace made by the Emperour Transilvania Valachia and Moldavia should be comprised nor the Prince to enter any League with the Turk without the consent of the Hungarian Nobility also 2. Transilvania with all parts thereof possessed by the Prince in Hungary to remain to 〈◊〉 and his Heirs male in absolute Authority yet to acknowledge the Emperours
Turks in the Suburbs and those in the Fort under Thomas-hill firing the Houses and defacing the Fort what they could in that sudden fear fled into the Lower-town Next day the Count took those forsaken places manning them with 〈◊〉 making a Bridge with boats over Danubius casting up Mounts and doing many other things in 3 dayes he repairing St. Thomas Fort placed 4 great pieces and battered the Lower-town and straitning the besieged in other places more than they had bin the year before The Bassa of Buda knowing their wants of men and munition attempted thrice as he did many times after to have by the River put supplies into the City but was still forced with loss to return The Lower-town called 〈◊〉 or the Water-town was soon so battered that scarce any building was whole and a Counter-scarfe made last year beaten down Certain Walloons were sent hither to view the Ditches after whom some Hungarian Heidons followed without any command who couragiously set some Ensigns on the top of another Counter-scarf but the Turks comming on close together forced them with loss to retire divers walloons were also slain with some others of good place to the 〈◊〉 his great grief not a little offended with that disordered service yet the battery ceased not and the Christians slew many Turks on the walls with Musket-shot receiving little hurt again being in their Trenches and the Turks shooting but sparingly yet with what they spent they had slain four Christian-Cannoniers and one Walloon-Captain About the midst of July the Count thinking the Water-Town to be made saultable sent some Companies to assault it who passing the Counter-scarf found the Ditch full of mud and but newly cut broader being thought scarce passeable without a Bridge behind which was a huge Wall with strong Bulwarks and within that another new Ditch on whose brink was a thick and huge parapet yet some Walloons ventured to pass all this but through the Defendants valour the small number of the assailants with the places disadvantage they retired with the loss of many The Christians had taken a little Island before the City kept by some of Palfi's Heidons but the Turks from Buda there landing three thousand Souldiers slew the Heidons and recovered the Island furnishing it with a Garrison and all necessaries so departing About 3 dayes after the Christians the second time assaulted the Water-town the chief Leaders being 〈◊〉 Greis and Zinne who being pardoned for the stain with Count Hardeck at Rab most couragiously with the rest now assaulted the Breach but were notably repulsed retiring with the loss of 150 men Zinne himself being slain with Ruger a Captain and some of the Count his Guards Greis was wounded in the Head and the yonger Lord Schuendi with other Captains grievously hurt Next day 600 Mountain people came supplicating the Count not to give over the siege till he had won the City promising in their names who sent them to repair of their own cost all harms yea though he should lay the City even with the ground the harmes they daily received from the Garrison being so great Then also was the Count advertised by his espials of whom he maintained many that Mahomet had written to the Bassa of Buda carefully to provide that his beloved Strigonium took no harm and not to spare for men or money to relieve it in time and doe nothing therein without the advice of old Alis Beg a long time Governour thereof and that nothing might be wanting he had sent Alexander Aga of the Janizaries whom he could ill spare whose Counsell and help he might also use for he had rather lose some other Kingdom than that City wherefore he should upon the price of his head beware it were neither won nor yielded on composition which severe Command the Bassa sent to Strigonium with most grievous threats from himself if they terrified with any thing should not hold it out to the last man swearing to empail those on stakes who should consent to a yielding Alis hereupon to deter the Souldiers from a thought of yielding diligently enquired if any of them had at any time made any motion of yielding or murmured against their Commanders in any service and whom he found so to have done he presently executed and then went into the lower Town to see that nothing were wanting or amisse where most danger was but when he would have returned the Janizaries stayed him saying Seeing he was so couragious and their Governour he should there stay and take such part as they did were it better or worse Now the Bassaes of Buda and Temeswar with divers Sanzacks were assembling their forces for relief of Strigonium whereupon the Transilvanian made shew as if he would besiege Temeswar so that that Bassa was glad to return for defence of his own charge they also of Stiria Carinthia and Croatia with Serinus's Troops so stopped all passages that 12000 Turks coming from Zigeth and thereabouts could not joyn 〈◊〉 the rest for the Citie 's relief The Count having made a notable Fort upon St. Thomas Hill placed therein 5 great Culverins greatly hurting the upper-Town by a furious Battery so that none also could go betwixt the upper and lower Towns but he was endangered by those or Musketiers who defended by them lay waiting to that end on the side of the Hill in Caves and bushes but Gokara Town and Fort on the other side of Danubius besieged by Palfi was most shaken by the great Ordnance wherefore the Count increased the battery continuing it till the Counter-scarfe was beaten down and fair breaches made in the wall The Moravians July 21 assaulted it in five places whom Palfi seconded with his Hungarians some being appointed to bring with them things to fire the Town so that in time of the aslaut the Town was all on a light fire The Turks having notably resisted now being overpressed and the fire so encreasing that it caught hold of the lower Town on the other side of the River the rest were all slain by the Christians The fire being quenched they repaired the breaches and left therein a strong Garrison A night or two after 200 Turkish Horse being descryed fast by an Alarum was raised in the Camp as if all their Army had been at hand yet it was afterwards known they were onely Scouts sent out to view how the Christians lay encamped A young Countrey Fellow being the latter end of this moneth secretly sent out of the City was taken by Palfi and sent to the Count who friendly demanded of him Whence he came Whither going and whereabouts who answered he was sent by the Governour with Letters to the Bassa of Buda which he presently delivered unto him the purport whereof were that if the Bassa did not within 6 or 7 dayes ayd and relieve him he should be forced through want of necessaries to abandon the City or yield it up so the Count causing them to be closed up again gave the
the Transilvanian and by glorious promises to allure him to submit to his protection and in taking of fidelity to deliver to him what 2 Frontier Towns he should require Who answered He was not yet weary of Friendship with the Prince neither were those Towns in his power to give as belonging to him to whom he would write and stay the Embassadour till he had an answer The Emperour had with what care he could provided that his Army might be ready at first of the Spring but although his own Forces were in some good time ready yet was a good part of Summer past before the ayd from other Princes met together at length when some convenient number were assembled at Vienna they were by Lord Swartzenburg brought into the field and encamped in those very Trenches that were cast up last year by count Mansfelt there to expect the comming down of their Warlike provision by the River as also the rest of the daily expected Forces From Altenburg they marched to 〈◊〉 thence to Vacia or Woczen July 24. Upon whose approach the Turks forsook the Town and with their Ordnance Cattel and best Goods fled to Pesth burying the biggest Ordnance by the way which yet was found out And though the Turks had fired both Town and Castle yet the Christians left therein by the help of 2000 Foot and some Horse sent thither preserved a great part of both The whole Army comming and encamping in the open field braved the Turks even to the Gates of Pesth insomuch that they of Pesth and Buda sent their Wives and Children with their chief substance down the River to places farther off and that so disorderly that many for haste thrust one another into the River and so perished Ferdiuand the Emperour's Uncle Count of Tirol being dead the Emperour preferred Matthias his Brother to that Government not inferiour to some Kingdoms appointing Maximilian the yonger Brother Generall who came into the Camp Aug. 4th being by Swartzenburg his Lievt and Palfi received with great triumph The Christians being now 60000 strong and having fortified and garrisoned Vacia resolved to besiege Hatwan a strong Town in upper Hungary whither they came August the 15. and so speedily that they were seen by the Turks before heard of so that at first they sallyed out upon them as some come to seek for booty skirmishing a while till they saw the whole Battel coming The Christians encamping themselves battered the Counterscarf in 3 places Besides the strong Garrison was also a broad Ditch with a broad Counter-scarf and strong Pallisadoes The Turks sallying out brake into the Christians Trenches doing greater harm and were likely to do more had not the Horsmen in time come forced them to retire Greis a notable Captain was here slain being forsaken of his own men who for their cowardize were openly disarmed and turned out of the Camp One morning as the Christians were at their devotions in their Trenches a Turkish Priest from a high Tower most bitterly railing on and cursing and 〈◊〉 them a Cannonier much moved shot at the Tower which he struck down together with the railing and blaspheming Priest The Christians having at length made the Town Saultable the Turks offered to yield it upon the same conditions that they of Strigonium had but they received no answer yea command was given none on pain of death to have any parly with them Shortly after they about 5 in the afternoon assaulted the Town in 4 places and after 3 hours hard fight took it with the 〈◊〉 and lamenting of the women and children and other fearfull ones Four hours Execution was done upon all that came to hand Women great with child and yong children at their Mother's breasts were slain and the Walloons ript the children out of their mothers wombs making thongs and points of the skins of men and women whom they had slain quick which cruelty when they were reproved afterwards for it they excused pretending they taught the Turks hereafter not so wickedly to blaspheme against Christ or with such wonted cruelty to torment the Christians for fear of the like In this fury about 4000 Turks perished and but three hundred Christians Here was a very rich prey besides what the fire devoured One Terski with his Company first entred the Town after whom followed Rusworme who in their entrance were thought to have slain with their own hand eight or ten Turks apiece Mahomet the while sending Cicala before him arrived at length from Belgrade at Buda with about 200000 men and 300 Field-pieces whence sending 40000 presently to Temeswar he stayed there himself with the rest The Christians at Hatwan doubting lest he should suddenly come upon them as yet unprovided departed thence encamping not far fram Vacia from whence the Christian Garrison next day after the Turks comming to Buda had fled for fear firing the Town and following the Camp His comming also caused those of Vienna to labour day and night to fortifie and provide all things as if for a present siege But Mahomet not provided for such an undertaking and not ignorant of Solyman's disgrace had at his comming into Hungary cast his eyes upon the City Agria not far from Hatwan purposing by taking thereof and strongly garrisoning it to hinder the uniting of the Emperours Forces with the Transilvanians by the way of upper Hungary Wherefore the Arch-Duke sent thither valiant Terski with a notable Company of Italians and Germans and 1000 other Harquebusiers Septemb. 21. Mahomet with 4 Bassaes Sinan being now dead and an Army of 150000 encamped between Danubius and Tibiscus and with wondrous speed casting up 5 great Mounts so furiously battered the walls that the Christians were glad night and day to stand in Arms for defence of the City and though the walls were long and in many places so weak as not to be defended but by a greater garrison yet for 6 dayes they defended the whole City against the Enemies fury doing them great harm But the danger greatly encreasing they set it on fire having first convayed all their best substance with themselves into the Castle fair and strong Whereupon the Turks brake so suddenly into the City as if they would have entred the Castle with them but in that attempt they were repulsed and many slain There was a strong Bulwark adjoyning to the Castle which the Turks having sore shaken with their Ordnance thundring without ceasing in 2 dayes assaulted it 12 times but with wonderful loss but as men the more enraged they came on with greater fury than before at last took it putting all to the Sword except such as betimes got into the Castle Which Bulwark the Christians next day again recovered slaying a great number of Turks with the losse of some 30 men and as many wounded The besieged now divers times craved ayd of Maximilian telling him they could not long hold out for want of shot and Powder if not timely relieved which the Enemy knew yet
benefit they had from him so lately received and in case they should little esteem of those things yet they should know he was not to be feared with words but fully resolved not to stir a foot thence with his Forces but rather to lose his life which for all that he would sell as dear as he could They courteously answered him He should not give 〈◊〉 to any speeches of the light vulgar but to content himself that the Nobility had not done any 〈◊〉 thing So after much dispute were appointed 3 persons according to the 3 estates to go and request the Emperour Maximilian for their Governour with special request also that he would not overcharge with forraign Souldiers that Province already sore 〈◊〉 especially having in it-self people sufficient more nimble to encounter with Turks than the slow Almaines and they also of a double charge Basta thought it not good to call again any such Assembly seeing plainly the mind of the people was to resolve to remain for ever free if they should have come to a second consultation yea in that very Diet the Chiaki was declared Governour in behalf of the people with authority in many things of himself to determin without any assembly of the other States which they said They did only till they by the Emperour were provided of a 〈◊〉 Howbeit Basta perceived more than a Tribunitiall power to be now ioyned by the people to the Emperour's Commissioners knowing that this Chiaki was in great hope to have bin proclaimed Prince of the Confederates if they had not bin presently relieved against the Vayuod having noted in him his great ambition in marching from 〈◊〉 towards the Vayuod Next day came all the Councel of that Province with the Deputies appointed to have gone to the Emperour and the people to Basta's House requesting him to send his Germans out of the Country and after so many troubles to give it a little leave to 〈◊〉 himself might stay at Alba Julia till the Deputies might go to his Majesty with their requests Basta not a little troubled with such an Imperious request now saw himself deceived in the ground of all this action by trusting too much to his own too small Forces in so populous a Province contenting himself only with their Oath without any other Hostages Besides of the 6000 that he brought with him thither 3500 of Silesia now brought to 2000 could not be perswaded longer to stay without their pay before-hand the pay of their Country being already spent and the rest drawn out of the Garrisons of upper Hungary or there pressed were at a certain time to return Yet for not grieving of the Country he requested of them some strong place wherein his men in Garrison might live upon their own Wages which when he could not obtain and considering it might happen unto those few which would stay with him as it did to the 8000 Almaines of Castaldo driven out of that Country under colour of some insolency committed though about 20 〈◊〉 had bin the chief doers thereof he resolved of all these things to give notice to the Court so to march softly to the confines and to save his 8 pieces of Ordnance and Munition in Vivar-Castle a good way within the confines which with Kniver-Castle the Generall of the Vayuods Horse delivered to one of the Emperour's Commissioners who there provided for Basta his familiar Favorite although the Transilvanians had sought with great promises to have had the said strong Castles in their own power But the matter was so well handled afterwards by Basta 〈◊〉 and the other Emperour 's great Favorites that in a Diet of the Transilvaniaus he was with a convenient guard again received as the Emperors Lievt till further order were by him taken The Chiaki and his Complices faintly consenting thereunto Neither had Basta any longer assurance of that his Government than the fickle people would afford him with which his weak State among more enemies than friends we will a while leave him In the mean time the Treaty betwixt the Emperour and the Turk being frustrated Ibraim Bassa having made great preparation all last Winter now at length in the latter end of Aug. began to set forward with his Army from Belgrade supposed to be about 200000 men and sitting down before Babotsca a strong Fortress in lower Hungary furiously battered it purposing next day to assault it but the Captain of the Castle considering the weakness of his Garrison and the walls to be already sore shaken delivered up the place upon reasonable composition Thence the Bassa marched to Canisia in the Frontiers of Stiria a Town supposed by most to be impregnable for it was scituated in a very deep Marsh and strongly garrisoned with Hungarians and Almaines Ibrahim especially longed for this place both to free the Turks Frontiers from the often incursions of the Souldiers therein and hereby also to open a more free safe passage for the Turks into Austria So encamping on the side of the Marsh which encompassed the Isle whereon the Town stood he began with Faggots Earth to fill up the Marsh so to pass over his Army the besieged not ceasing with great shot to disturb them c. Who yet proceeding in their work had brought it almost close to the Island where being about to land they were by the Garrison-souldiers encountring them forced to retire with the loss of a number of men and 2 of their best Captains but preparing against next day with a greater force to have assaulted the Isle they saw the Imperiall Army now at their backs aud doing them great harm with their Artillery divers Bands also sometime sallying out of the Camp discharged great Vollies of shot even into their Trenches also from the Town they received no small hurt The Imperiall Army were about 42000 Horse and Foot men of divers Nations under the leading of Duke Mercurie with whom were also Nadasti and divers other famous Captains come for the relief of 〈◊〉 a place of so great importance But Ibrahim understanding by his espials the smalness of their number went out and joyned battel with them with great slaughter on both sides which doubtfull fight yet in all mens judgement most enclinable unto the Christians was by the coming on of the night broken off The Christians retiring into their Trenches the Turks stood all night in the field with their Weapons in their hands who presuming on their multitude and next day daring the Christians to battel their Captains being at variance could by no means be perswaded to go out against them So that the Tartarian General taking courage made an inroad into the Country and meeting with 200 Waggons laden with Victuals for the Christian Army slew the Convoy and carried them away whereby such want arose among them that they were glad by night to dislodge and retire which for all that being by the Turks perceived they presently following them cut off above 3000
with some Ordnance and most of the Baggage the rest the while retiring farther off into more safe places The Turks now returning to the siege the Garrison a few dayes after despairing of timely relief mutined refusing any longer to defend the Town hardly layed to and the rather because divers Hungarians were fled out of the Town having as was thought revealed to the Bassa the state of the besieged yet Paradiser the Governour and some other Captains did what they might as they said afterward to have perswaded the contrary Whereupon they covenanted with the Bassa with bag and baggage to depart and to be safely convoyed over the River Mur 〈◊〉 Octob. 22. the Town was cowardly delivered After the Agreement made for yielding up the Town the Bassa sent Paradiser a very rich Gown of cloth of Gold which although he refused yet was it afterwards laid to his charge as a presumption of some treacherous collusion betwixt them for it was thought he might have kept the Town much longer Ibrahim now fortified the Town more strongly than before putting into it 4000 Foot and 500 Horse all old Souldiers and then forraged the Country round about Canisia burning all as he went the poor Inhabitants fleeing still as fast as they could But having thus with the spoil well pleased his Souldiers he desirous to have the Country timely re-peopled stayed their outrage upon a great pain by open proclamations in every place set up inviting the Christians without fear to return into the Country where submitting to the Sultans Obeysance they should safely dwell and no Tribute to be exacted of them for 3 years following that they might the better recover themselves Whereupon many not knowing where to bestow themselves returned to their ancient dwellings But since Count Serinus was the man he most feared after his departure to trouble his new Conquest and seek revenge who in this generall calamity of Stiria his Country had 20 Villages of his own quite burnt and the people most slain or taken the Bassa having many times sought to perswade him to yield Obedience to the Turk and now in hope after so great loss to bring him in before he were come to utter ruin wrote unto him again to that purpose which Letters being as the rest answered with silence and Ibrahim having disposed of all things at Canisia and thereabouts returned with his Army to Belgrade to Winter there having first certified the Sultan of all his proceedings and success vaunting next Spring to besiege Vienna also if he should so command Mahomet not a little pleased caused great triumphs for 4 dayes at Constantinople sending a rich Robe of cloth of Gold with a Leading-staffe set with Pearls and precious Stones unto the Bassa at Belgrade The loss of Canisia much troubled all that side of Christendom chiefly those of the Austrian Territories all men blaming the discord of the Captains who retired without doing any good but above all detesting the cowardise of Paradiser who if he had done the utmost of his devoir perhaps the cold and unseasonable Winter-weather though no other relief had been might have forced the Turks to raise the siege Wherefore he was by the Emperour's command imprisoned at Vienna where his cause being often examined he was the year following condemned of Felony and Cowardise and Octob. 15. had first his hand at 4 stroâ—ks struck off and after that his head so also was his Ensign bearer executed and after them his Lievt with the Mayor of the Town who both bound to a stake had first their heads cut out then their heads chopt off Now the Rebellion raised in Caramania by Cusahin was not with his death wholly 〈◊〉 also Orsa a great City still held out against 〈◊〉 Bassa Then also a Companion of 〈◊〉 called the 〈◊〉 seeing how hardly Cusahin and his followers had been handled called unto him all such as loved their Liberty unto which sweet name so many soon came about him as out of them he framed a dreadfull Army against whom 〈◊〉 Bassa going with all his power they so couragiously joyned battel with him that he received a notable overthrow so that he was glad to retire and send out Commissions for raising of greater Forces Mahomet the while whether for fear of this new Rebellion or understanding of the Embassadours sent from the Persian to the Christian Princes he suspecting that King might break his League with him sent an Embassadour into Persia demanding of the King for the more assurance of the League one of his Sons to be sent to him in Hostage upon which so proud a demand the Persian King commanded the Embassadour to be forthwith slain but his fury by his Counsellours being somewhat appeased he was contented he should in contempt be put to the Bastinado only and so grievously threatned sent back to his Master who now in doubt of some further matter from that angry King garrisoned strongly all his strong Holds confining upon the Persian The Emperour much troubled with the loss of Canisia and in doubt of worse to come though Ibrahim did afresh treat with him of peace with great instancy requested ayd of the Pope and other Princes of Italy in 1601. So the Pope at first of the Spring sent him 8000 Souldiers in pay under his Nephew 〈◊〉 King Philip also ordered Count Fuentes to send into Croatia certain Bands of the Dutchess who by his direction were conducted to Millain the Duke of Florence likewise sent him 2000 Souldiers under de Monte with whom also went John de 〈◊〉 whom Ferdinand the Arch-Duke requested to be Master of his Camp Thither came also the Duke of Mantua both with Horse and Foot being made by the Arch-Duke his Lievtenant General The Emperour sent also another good Army into Hungary under the leading of Matthias and the Duke Mercurie his Lievtenant Gen. He made also a third Army which strengthened with the Forces of Don Ferrant Gonzaga joyned with Basta for recovery of Transilvania out of which he had bin of late driven In the mean time many hot skirmishes passed in Hungary betwixt the Christians and Turks But the time being come for taking the field Ibrahim Bassa being before dead at Belgrade and Hassan a Visier Bassa appointed Generall in his place yet delaying his comming and the Parly for peace layed aside as never intended by the Turks but to dally off time to their own advantage Duke Mercury came with his Army from Comara where he lay expecting the event of the parly and laid siege to Alba regalis one of the chiefest and strongest Cities of Hungary which he for certain dayes continually battered as if he had purposed to have taken it by assault but being informed by a Fugitive that the broad Lake on the other side of the City was not so deep but it might be passed over against the opinion of the Turks Captives and Inhabitants whom he had examined and that the Turks thinking themselves on that side safe had
part returned the like losses to the Christians for while the Turks lodged in the Isle of Vicegrade Collonitz so annoyed them with 8 great Field-pieces that they were about to forsake the place which the more to force them to do he embarqued himself with 600 Haiducks landing by night near them with great silence thinking to have surprized them but by the dayes coming on the Turks were aware thereof issuing out of their Trenches and with all their Force charging him who made Head against them though he had not men enow to withstand the least part of his Enemies upon which his so great resolution the Turks stood a great while in doubt to charge them the Field-pieces which Collonitz had brought with him served him to good purpose the fight endured 2 hours at length the Christians oppressed with number rather than vanquished left their pieces disorderly retiring to their Boats the Turks slaying 400 Haiducks in eager pursuit the rest with much ado recovering their Boats hardly defending their Generall from the Enemies fury yet were the most forward and couragious Turks in that fight slain also as was known by some prisoners afterwards taken To prevent the like attempt the Turks cast up great Trenches in the Isle along the Bank of the River kept by some of their best Souldiers till the dis-lodgement of the Camp to lay before Buda The Turks before this had built a 〈◊〉 of Boats at Lamascin to pass into Stiria where they did great harm to strengthen which they built 2 strong Forts at the 〈◊〉 ends thereof this Bridge Trantmestorfe Governour of Stiria undertaking to break with his Troops and ayd brought by Serinus right furiously assailed one of these Forts before they therein were well aware of his coming causing the greatest noise possible to be made with Warlique Instruments as if it had bin some great Army The Turks terrified without much resistance quitted the place fleeing over the Bridge to the other Fort which the Christians presently with 3 Cannons out of the Conquered Fort battered and a Breach being made and scaling Ladders set up they on every side assaulted the Fort which the Turks for 5 hours valiantly endured many being on both sides slain at last the Turks with much flaughter overcome the Fort was taken most Turks therein being slain the rest taken and then were both the Forts razed the Bridge broken the Boats whereof it was made all burnt and some Ordnance therein found broken and cast into the River At which time Lugaze a place of great importance for the Emperour and very near the Turks was by the Transilvanians delivered to Basta whence he sending Scouts toward Belgrade they brought in certain prisoners Who said That Hassan Bassa had writ to 〈◊〉 Bassa of Temeswar That the present state of things so requiring he should only attend the preservation of this Town and that himself having re victualled Buda purposed for this year to return hoping of peace to be ere long concluded betwixt the Sultan and Emperour The Christians desirous in what they might to hinder Buda's re-victualling October 17. after shooting of three Warning pieces took the field and so stood ready ranged to give or accept of Battel before whom Count Reingrave was sent with his Regiment to discover the 〈◊〉 of the Enemy and receive his first charge if occasion required whose Scouts about noon discovered a Turkish Troop whom the Scouts supposing to have bin the fore-runners of the Turks Army and by them almost surprized by a hasty retreat put the whole Army in an alarm which came bravely on in hope to have tried the matter by true labour and to have made that day for ever famous by their Victory but the Turks resolved only upon safeguard of themselves and Victualling of Buda kept themselves within their Tents and Trenches So the Christians most of the day in vain expecting their comming returned into their Camp The same day a Spy was taken thought to be a Turk yet one of their own men who better informed them of the Turks resolucion for the shunning of battell both for the losses received and for divers other unlucky accidents which made them misdoubt some ill successes in the end of this Expedition yet the Christians not much trusting to these reports still kept their Army in readiness Howbeit the time passed but in light skirmishes and vain Alarms betwixt the 2 Armies till at length Buda being by the River stored with Victuals Hassan Bassa with much silence by night rose with his Army retiring towards Belgrade Next day the Enemies sudden departure being perceived the Christian General consulted with his great Commanders What were best to be done in so unexpected an Occurrent Some thought it best to pursue them others disswading it and others propounding some other notable 〈◊〉 at last it was resolved Not to hazard any Troops in pursuing their Enemies hardly to be overtaken but to attempt some one of their strong Holds Hatwan being thought the most necessary place being so seated as that besides the great harm it did to the Christians thereabouts it much hindered both Advertisements and Victuals to be brought to Pesthe Whereupon they forthwith razing St. Andrews and Vicegrade Forts with all their power set 〈◊〉 toward Hatwan beyond Danubius toward the North about 8 Leagues from Buda which Maximilian taking in 1594. for the irrepairable losses the Christians had received from this Garrison caused it to be then dismantled and made unserviceable for the Wars after which for all that the Turks had new fortified it with Walls made of Wood and Faggots with earth rammed in betwixt them stronger and better able to endure the Cannon than Walls of stone in which sort the Turks use most commonly to fortifie such places as they mean to defend At the Christians first comming unto it Sultz with 300 Lansquenets and Grasold with part of his Italian Regiment were sent before to begin to make the approaches which they did by forcing of a Water-mill not past a Musquet shot from the Town the Turks the while sallying out had with them a sharp Combat hand to hand many losing their lives Grasold himself being slain with a smal shot to the great hurt of the whole Army specially of the Italians yet at last the Turks were forced confusedly to retire into the Town losing a number also The Christians proceeded in making their approaches and placing their Gabions to recover their Cannon wherein the Turks greatly hurt them with great small shot chiefly with murdering pieces charged with nailes Yet by the comming in of the Army the approaches next day were brought on and the battery planted so near that the Turks could not without most manifest danger and loss any more sally out While the diligent Christians took from the besieged their Water the Cannon furiously battered the Walls The Turk discouraged and out of hope of relief thought it best by 〈◊〉 while their strength was whole to prevent the
danger of a Breach and Assault sent 2 of their chief men to treat at first Demanding to depart safely with bag and baggage but it was answered They should only with life and liberty 〈◊〉 gone with some few hundreds of their worst Horses to carry them whither they meant to retire and to deliver into the Christians hands all Renegates in the Town the Generall threatning the like misery asat the former siege if they should expect the dreadfull event of a generall assault So that they accepted of these hard conditions and full of sorrow and heaviness departed with their Families November 29 being safely conducted to Solnock The Christians entring the Town found great store of Victuals Munition Corn and other necessaries and the shops stored with weapons shot and powder with 24 pieces of Ordnance ready mounted but without resolution all these are but of small force and with which they are able to do much The place thus furnished well considered seemed almost impossible to be forced especially Winter being come on which might have brought many intolerable storms and difficulties upon the besiegers So that every man with eyes cast up gave God the praise for taking away the Turks courages in so great advantages encreasing the Christians in no less difficulties The Christian Generall put into it 1000 Lansquenets and 500 Hungarian Horse and Foot then he retired toward Pesth which he relieved with Victuals there billeting that 〈◊〉 The Troops of 〈◊〉 Geisberg and Rover to preserve it also against the devices and practices of those of Buda for regaining thereof Lord Rusworm breaking up his Army near Strigonium sent sixty four brave Ensignes all that he this year gained from the Turks with great triumph to Vienna for a Present to Matthias who greatly thanked both the Generall and Souldiers and bountifully rewarded them that brought them they of Vienna also highly commending Rusworm and not a little rejoycing to see those braving Ensignes now in their power The Army being broken up a number of Souldiers especially of Colonel Altmein's Regiment comming for Booty most cruelly rifled and spoiled the Villages and Inhabitants both Christians and Turks who by the Emperours command were charged at Widhof and 230 of them brought in prisoners to Vienna 34 of whom were for Example hanged and the rest cashiered Count Reingrave's Regiment were put into the Villages of Chiante and Ternavy where besides the troubles they had with the Neighbouring Turks the very Country-Inhabitants oft-times and that for little or no occasion right furiously charged them as their mortal Enemies so that these valiant men still forced to buy their bread with the price of their bloud used the Christians as they did the Turks but in these small and often fights some good number of men on one side or other were every day slain Wherefore these Souldiers resolved to go seek their living elswhere and the rather for that Captain Clinchamp's Troop the best in the Regiment was one night furiously assailed and almost surprized by the Peasants Wherefore they departed into Austria without Victuals Apparrell or Mony their pay due for 17 months being kept from them a cruelty full of covetousness and a covetousness full of cruelty but great was the Wisdome of Angustus upholding of his State who laid up the publique Revenue apart by it self to defray the publique charge and his own private for his private uses These poor Souldiers craved leave of the Bishop of Bresburg to passe by his Suburbs without doing any harm which he granting they passed accordingly Wherefore the Bishop furnished them with Boats to pass over the River dividing Hungary from Austria but 1500 of the Peasants of Austria assembled together and cast up a Fort upon the Bank with three Faulcons to keep them from comming over for a while courteously requested passage of them promising all good behaviour in passing quietly thorow their Country who 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the danger of their lives if they should attempt the passage Whereupon these provoked Martiall men turning the head of their baggages toward the Fort as if they would have there passed while the Peasants stood gazing upon them Camgaillard with his Troop swam over a little higher up unperceived Chinchampe with his following also they were much troubled with flakes of Ice the Rivers deepness steepness of the Banks and many difficulties yet being got over they suddenly and furiously charged these Peasants 300 of them being soon slain upon the place as many hurt the rest put to flight which done the rest of the Troops passed the River 7 weeks were they in Austria and longer had stayed but that upon complaint and request of the people they receiving 9 months pay for 17 had leave to depart a great oversight to disband at once so many men as not their like among all the Emperour's Garrison for when necessity called for them again the Emperour could raise but 3 Troops of all that strong Regiment they being sundrywayes dispersed one whereof Camgaillard had the second Marades a Spaniard the third John Paul an Italian who all had before done good service in Reingraves Regiment This year 1603 ended with divers conflicts favouring the Christians 300 Haiducks seeking for booty met with a very rich Company of Turks the Governour of Mohatz being one all whom they cut in pieces who most cruelly had before spoiled them of their Parents Lands and Goods They took also the Governour of Capan with his Son and 24 other rich Turks 170 Horses for service and 8 fat Oxen which drew forth others to seek for the like Of whom certain Troops met the Gouernour of Batzwar come out against them with his Garrison in which hot fight at first the Turks seemed to have the better but at last the Christians cut them in pieces divers prisoners being 〈◊〉 3 Ensignes and many rich spoils after which the Vayuod of Moldavia sent news that the Tartars having with all cruelty wasted that Country the Inhabitants desperate generally joyned in Arms with him to try their last Fortune and fighting with the Tartars slew a number upon the place put the rest to flight and chased them out of the Country So notably revenging their former losses Neither were the Turks in this cold time of the year idle The Bassa Beged hearing that Basta lay with his Troops dispersed about Lippa in great security by reason of the extremity of the time acquainted 3 other Turkish Commanders with the matter who with 5000 men set all forward hoping suddenly to have surprized him but he had his Spies still abroad who advising him of their purpose and comming he collected his Forces and set forward to meet them and in a place of disadvantage suddenly charged them round fearing no such thing so that as dismayed after some small resistance they fled above 1100 Turks being slain the rest perishing in the river 〈◊〉 a few only with the Bassa by speed escaping 20 Captains were taken a few other prisoners but
Souldiers in any order amidst the extremities of Famine for that The Belly was an inexorable Usurer c. Amidst these troubles two Turkish Spies of Buda were taken who had observed all the Christians proceedings also all their designs preparations and levies for this years-Wars one of whom was empailed the other straitly imprisoned till more matter might be drawn from him The Bassa of Buda hearing that the Christians would forthwith take the Field in Hungary to hinder their forwardness and gain time till the Turks great Army then preparing might be brought down into Hungary wrote in most friendly manner to the Governour of Strigonium for the Treaty and concluding of a peace with the Christians whereof he with the rest of the Turks seemed to be very desirous telling him If their Army then before Belgrade did once arrive at Buda and march in field they could not cause it to return without doing something considering the great harms they had received from the Christians during the Truce which they had many ways violated which evil dealings he said had greatly incensed them against their Christian-captives causing their Souldidiers to snew great rigour against their slaves wherefore he attended his answer Yet during the time of all those fair shews of peace the Turks out of their Garrisons by night surprized the Castle of Simnin slew part of the Christian Souldiers carried away the rest prisoners and burnt the place manifesting by fowl deeds the ill meaning of fair words but passing over many small skirmishes in Hungary and Transilvania let us look over into Asia Cicala Bassa the old Renegate was sent General into Asia against the Rebels with a mighty Army where was made a great and terrible fight Howbeit at length the Bassa after a great number on both sides slain being fled fled with his Army wholly disordered with much ado to save himself But he more ashamed than discouraged repaired his Army joyning thereto great and mighty supplies and so came to revenge his dishonour and utterly to suppress the Rebels who now too weak wisely betime retired praying ayd of the Persian King who sent them his Son with a great good and valiant Army The two Armies were now in number equal but the Rebels of the two more resolute and carefull of themselves so that the battel was with great out-cries and fury begun on both sides at first The Turks seemed somewhat to prevail till the Persian Kings Son with some of his bravest Troops charging them in the Rear and some Rebels with like fury on their flanks their whole Army was so disordered that Cicala doing what he could to restore the Battel and nothing prevailing was glad to flee 30000 Turks being slain and 1000 Rebels The Persian King after this discomfiture took in the Country of Sirvan whither Cicala had he prevailed against the Rebels should have marched to have stayed the Persian's Victories who now won also Arusta a very great and strong Town near to Tygris where it runneth into Euphrates with all the adjoyning places and Countries and hath since recovered from the Turks whatever they in Solyman's time took from his Predecessours except 2 or 3 places Young Achmat had not many months raigned but he fell sick of the small pox whose gross body was so tormented therewith for 14 dayes that he oft fainting 't was thought he would have died yea divers great Bassaes spake concerning his younger Brother to be taken out of the Seraglio to succeed him which no doubt had cost him his life after Achmat's recovery but that he was the only Othoman Heir left if his Brother should fail who now recovered to shew it to the doubting Janizaries and others in great State rode up and down through most of the chief streets of the City the people rejoycing to see him and with most joyfull acclamations wishing him a long and happy Raign who forthwith gave himself to his youthfull immoderate pleasures of the Field and other such violent exercises Whereupon 2 of his Bassaes carefull of his health upon the new recovery of his late sickness were so bold as to reprove him for such his immoderate and violent exercises the day not being long enough for them by effectuall reasons disswading him but he was so far from hearkening that therewith enraged he thrust them both out of their places and having glutted himself with his pleasures began to cast his eyes upon his more necessary State-affaires especially on his Warrs with the Christian-Emperour and Persian King Hassan Bassa was then at Belgrade whose longing desire Achmat quickly satisfied by sending unto him both a Commission for the continuance of his Generalship and also a Generalls Ensign with a Hungarian Mace of pure Gold in token of his extraordinary favour towards him who to shew his contentment caused all the great Ordnance of the place to be ost-times discharged and the Trumpets and Drumms to be most joyfully sounded Newes came the while to 〈◊〉 that the Persian King was in field with above 100000 good Souldiers and that Baggages Bassa a Rebell in Asia had confederated himself with him Whereupon Achmat though he had ordered Hassan to besiege Teradium a strong City in upper Hungary now in haste commanded the same Visier with all the power he could make to return to Constantinople to consult and resolve upon the most necessary War and of the readiest means to continue it who being come thither the Grand Seignior came to his House whither the Council being assembled it was resolved at one and the same time to make War with equal Forces both upon the Emperour in Hungary and the Persian King no power on Earth being in their proud conceit able to withstand theirs So Hassan Bassa was continued in his charge and Cicala Bassa the Renegate to command the Army to be sent the Persian an ordinary Policy of the Othomans not to commit the charge of their Armies against the Christians unto Renegates lest they touched with remorse might betray the same or otherwise deal unfaithfully But Cicula acquainted with the difficulty and danger of the Persian War began to excuse himself till upon promise to furnish him with a sufficient Army and all things also necessary with a large and most honourable entertainment for himself and all the Persian prisoners being also given unto him he accepted thereof being in his ambitious mind most desirous of that charge so he chearfully prepared for this so great Expedition expecting but the comming of his Son who at the Venetians request was gone with a Fleet to scour the Levant Seas of Pirates then exceedingly troubling their Traffique Amidst which designes the Tartar Cham bound for his pay to serve the Turk against the Christians excused himself by his Embassadour that he could not come in person this year into Hungary as being necessarily busied with his own most urgent affairs yet promising to send his Son with a good power Now there are divers causes why so a great a
of the Mole and Coll. Dayon to enter as soon as the passage of the Port should have been cleared But as the Souldiers were impatiently expecting the signall to fall on the Generalissimo caused the Ladders to be brought back and the Souldiers to re-imbarque none knowing the cause After which the Fleet retired to Delos from whence part went to the Seas of Cerigo and the rest towards Candia with no less discontent then astonishment The cause being the Governour of Canea had notice of their purpose and thereupon returned and re-inforced his 〈◊〉 with 5000 men drawn out of places which the Turks held in Candia and sent two Galleyes to Rhodes to demand aid of the Turkish Fleet. This mischief wrought a separation betwixt the Venetian Generalissimo and the chief Commanders of the Papall and Maltese Squadrons Sept. 12. In the Province of Albania there arose a great tumult because the Bassa which commanded there obstructed the trading betwixt the Albanish Christians and Turks Whereupon these Christians and Turks joyned together to oppose his power in which Action much bloud was spilt 4000 of the Bassa's men being killed An Envoy from Prince Ragotzi being come to Vienna Nov. 12. made severall instances to obtain succour from the Emperour but notwithstanding all reasons alledged the matter would not take effect in regard the Emperor having other designs in the limits of Christendome thought fit to correspond with the Turk and therefore would leave him to his pleasure who had setled a Prince in the room of Ragotzi which Prince used al means to secure himself having forces left there by 〈◊〉 chief Visier for his defence The Bassa Ussaim not being able to extort from the Inhabitants the 5000 Rixdollars which they are obliged to pay to the Grand Seignior yearly fired all in the two Isles of Paris and Nixia which are parted onely by a Channel of about five miles so that the Inhabitants were forced to retire to the Mountains to save themselves from the fury of this Bassa But in the mean time the great differences continuing still in Constantinople whither the chief Visier intended to march with his army which he had in Trausilvania to oppose the rebellious designs of the Bassa of Aleppo The Persian King likewise having made agreement with the Successors of the Great Mogull prepared to employ all his Forces for the regaining of Babylon Ussaim Bassa Novemb. 14. being advanced near the head City in Candia caused his Ordnance to be planted and stormed the two Forts Della Palma and Corona but the Venetian Generalls made a resolute sally putting 3000 to the Sword and made them retreat and fell upon the Island Paris plundered it and enslaved all the Inhabitants because they refused to let them have provisions for mony and were forward in supplying the Turks The Bassa of Aleppo arrived at Scuton Novemb. 15th four miles from Constantinople with 40000 men making great havock The Grand Seignior's Mother put the said Bassa upon this work because she sought the ruine of the Visier intending to put Ussaim Bassa in his place There were three factions the Janizaries held with the Great Prince the Spahies were for the Mother and the rest with the chief Statesmen were for the brother of the Great Prince because he was more inclinable to preserve the countrey in peace and safety The German Emperor Novemb. 16th declared 〈◊〉 Don Hanniball Gonzaga who was Vice-President over the Militia chief Commander in Hungary The Venetians Novemb. 26 loaded a great number of Vessells with Biskit meal and other provisions to repair the want of the chief city of Candia occasioned by a fire which hapned in their Magazine The Pirats of Barbary having taken two ships of Provisions which were sent that way retired upon Intelligence that some Venetian ships were sent from the Fleet to pursue them The tumults in Asia grew greater forasmuch as the Faction of Ussaim Bassa of Aleppo did every day increase and that a certain person named Turtaw joyned to his 〈◊〉 which pretended to make a Reformation of their Religion affirming that to be false which the Grand Seignior professed Against whom the Grand Seignior dispatched the Souldiers that came from Transilvania commanded by the Vizier's Lievtenant who being arrived at Bursia where the Rebells were encamped fighting a bloudy battell the army of the Grand Seignior was totally defeated Novemb. 29. They were again troubled by Prince Ragotzi who had gotten great forces together the rather because the Bassa of Aleppo marched against Constantinople with a mighty Army demanding the head of the Prime Vizier The Great Prince being Resolved to go in person against him and to abandone all other enterprises till he had brought this Rebell to a better condition came in all haste to confer with the Venetian Bayliff Capello and Secretary Bellarini who had order to negotiate with him which made the Venetians hope for an accommodation because he would have occasion to imploy all his Forces against the Bassa of Aleppo who kept the City in continuall fear He likewise received sad newes That the Persians were in a Body of 30000 Horse and 30000 Foot besides another Army consisting of 100000 which were set down before Babylon the Citizens being more affected to the Persians then Turks Prince Ragotzi having lost all except two of the greater Cities Dobrintz and Varad leaving Coll. Gaude a Scotchman with 5000 men at Varad did 〈◊〉 encamp at Dobrintz And when the Turk's Army 50000 strong first began to besiege Varad the Coll. making a gallant sally put their 〈◊〉 to flight killing above 200 and taking 160 Prisoners without any losse An Edict was published at Constantinople Jan. 10. 1659. wherein was expressed That all the Rebells and their complices should be destroyed and killed where-ever they were met with and that those that did execution upon them should enjoy the goods of such Rebels which caused men in divers Villages to fall foul one upon another On the contrary the Rebelling Bassa published an Edict wherein he charged all his Souldiers and Officers to destroy all such as opposed and would not acknowledge his power The Ministers of the Divan in Constantinople after a long deliberation how to satisfy him offered to him in the Grand Seigniors name the perpetuall Government of Soria for which he should onely pay 100000 Sultanin's yearly whereas 300000 were due but he rejected those offers as far from his pretentions which were no lesse then the dividing of the Empire And the Persian would so much the more easily carry Babylon the Sultan well knew in regard that the Divan thought not fit to make use of the forces of the Empire to relieve such a remore place the wayes to it being seized on by the Rebells since that they 〈◊〉 be made use of with greater advantage for the defence of 〈◊〉 which otherwise would be at the mercy of the Rebels The Grand Seignior being very much perplexed promised 400000 〈◊〉 to him that should bring the Rebell